CELLULAR-COMPONENTS OF THE MILK OF THE TAMMAR WALLABY (MACROPUS-EUGENII)

The cellular components of colostrum and milk of the tammar wallaby (M acropus eugenii) have been investigated over the period of oestrus, la ctation and weaning. Macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and other v acuolated mononuclear cells were identified. The total number and dive rsity of cells were higher in colostral secretions and in secretions f rom post-lactational mammary glands. Neutrophils were the predominant cell type in early secretions. Macrophages were more prevalent in the milk of animals that no longer had young attached to the teat. These o bservations are consistent with suggestions that phagocytic cells play a role in post-lactational repair of the mammary gland but also sugge st that non-specific phagocytic protection plays a role in protection of the neonatal marsupial.