Hematology and clinical chemistry reference ranges for clinically normal, captive New Guinea snapping turtle (Elseya novaeguineae) and the effects of temperature, sex, and sample type.

Median values and confidence intervals for hematology and serum and plasma chemistry parameters were established for 29 male and female healthy New Guinea snapping turtles (Elseya novaeguineae) held at 24.5 degrees C and 30.0 degrees C. Creatine kinase, albumin, potassium, and phosphorus values were significantly higher at 24.5 degrees C than at 30.0 degrees C. Glucose, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, total carbon dioxide, and chloride values were significantly higher at 30.0 degrees C than at 24.5 degrees C. Cholesterol and calcium values were significantly higher in females than in males. Hemoglobin, packed cell volume, and bilirubin were significantly higher in males than in females, and bile acid values were significantly higher in serum than in plasma.