Differences in haematology and blood chemistry between the lesser mouse-eared bat (Myotis blythii) and its sibling species the greater mouse-eared bat (Myotis myotis)

Anotace: While bats are important reservoirs of infectious agents, they play a unique and irreplaceable role in the ecosystem. Nevertheless, they are now threatened by a wide range of negative influences and are increasingly becoming the subject of strict protection. A collection of reference haematological and biochemical indicator ranges can significantly contribute to the assessment of both individual and population health status. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare blood parameters of two sibling species, the lesser mouse-eared bat Myotis blythii and the greater mouse-eared bat Myotis myotis, to assess any differences between males and females and to establish reference intervals for blood parameters. A total of 51 bats were captured (22 × M. blythii, 29 × M. myotis). Reference ranges were established for haematocrit, haemoglobin, potassium, urea, glucose, pH, partial dissolved carbon dioxide, total dissolved carbon dioxide, bicarbonate, base excess, alanine aminotransferase, calcium, creatinine, total protein and globulin. For most parameters, there was no influence of species or sex; however, species differences were found for albumin, sodium, chloride, phosphorus and anion gap, and sex differences for total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and amylase. The data obtained will prove useful in clinical diagnostics and care of M. myotis and M. blythii in wildlife rescue centres and in research into the effects of infectious diseases, toxic substances or other negative factors affecting these bat species.