Hematological and biochemical reference intervals for two-humped camels (Camelus bactrianus) in Mongolia with effects of age/physiological class and season.

Abstract

Reference intervals (RIs) are essential for interpreting laboratory results. We established hematological and serum biochemical RIs for apparently healthy Mongolian Bactrian camels and evaluated age/physiological class and seasonal effects. Samples were collected from yearlings, subadults, adult castrated males, and lactating adult females in spring and autumn. Following CLSI EP28-A3c and ASVCP guidelines, 95% RIs were estimated by parametric, nonparametric, or robust methods according to sample size and distribution. Age/physiological class influenced multiple analytes, while season explained greater variation in several erythroid indices, total protein, and glucose. Season-specific RIs are therefore provided for analytes with substantial seasonal effects. These locally derived RIs support clinical interpretation and herd health monitoring under Mongolian pastoral conditions.