M. Rosenmann et G. Ruiz, SEASONAL-CHANGES OF BLOOD VALUES IN THE ANDEAN MOUSE ABROTHRIX-ANDINUS, Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part A, Physiology, 105(1), 1993, pp. 119-122
1. Bimonthly measurements of hematological indices were conducted in f
reshly captured Abrothrix andinus (Rodentia:Cricetidae) over a period
of one year. 2. All blood values were in the same range for adult male
s and females, but juveniles showed lower red blood cell counts (RBC)
and erythrocytes of larger size. 3. High RBC numbers, a slight but sig
nificant increase of blood hemoglobin concentration (Hb), and a signif
icant decrease in mean cell volume (MCV) were found during the winter
months. 4. Hematocrit values (Hct) and the mean cell Hb concentration
(MCHC) were relatively constant throughout the year. 5. Plasticity of
MCV and an inverse correlation between size and the number of RBC may
provide an enlarged diffusion area during winter. This mechanism appea
rs to be a useful seasonal adjustment, since the increase of Hct and t
he concurrent increase in blood viscosity are avoided.