Blood biochemical reference intervals for free-ranging Olive Baboons (Papio anubis) in Kenya

Biochemical reference intervals are important for assessing the health of target species and populations by identifying abnormalities in key blood parameters. Although reference intervals have been established for baboons in captivity, the lack of data from free-ranging individuals makes it difficult to interpret the results of their blood chemistry panels or to assess and monitor the health of wild baboon populations. The goal of this study was therefore to establish serum biochemical reference intervals for free-ranging olive baboons (Papio anubis) in Kenya. We evaluated 14 biochemical parameters from 28 baboons sampled at the Mpala Research Center, Nanyuki, Kenya. Reference intervals obtained from this wild population were comparable to those from captive baboon populations. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and phosphorus levels differed significantly among age classes; both were higher in subadult and juvenile baboons than in adults. However, none of the components of the blood biochemistry panel differed significantly between the sexes. The reference intervals we report provide a baseline for the evaluation and treatment of free-ranging olive baboons and provide context for interpreting the biochemical profiles of captive individuals