Variations in some haematological parameters and gonadal indices of Uromastyx argyptius during hibernation and active periods

The red blood cell count, packed cell volume, haemoglobin content and the level of blood glucose of the lizard, Uromastyx aegyptius were measured during summer and winter periods. During hibernation, the studied blood parameters were decreased by at least 33 %. The gonadal indices also varied considerably during hibernation and activity periods, reaching maximum values in summer. The onset of winter induces gonadal regression, reduced testis size, fewer eggs in ovaries and decreased numbers of large oocytes. KEY WORDS: Uromastyx aegyptius, hibernation, gonadal indices, blood parameters Egyptian Journal of Biology Vol.3(2) 2001: 81-8