Changes in food-derived minerals and molecules during different growth phases of freshwater tortoise (Geochelone nigra) under intensive management system: implication for public health

Background: Freshwater tortoises (Geochelone nigra) are the most popular in the rainforest region. Their growth phases include hatchling growth phase (HGP), juvenile growth phase (JGP), sub-adult growth phase (SAGP) and adult growth phase (AGP). Objective of the study was to investigate the impact of minerals value on the different growth phases of the Nigerian freshwater tortoise. Methods: This was an observational comparative study. The HGP, JGP, SAGP and AGP comprised four groups. 5-serial blood samples taken every two-months. The Ca2+, Cl-1, Na+, and PO4-2 were assessed as minerals; while blood glucose, lipids and proteins comprised food-derived molecules. Comparison was by simple ANOVA. Results: Highest concentration of glucose and lipids were recorded at the SAGP (72.00 mg/dl and 64.10 mg/dl); while the concentration of protein showed gradient increase as the tortoises progressed from HGP to AGP. Growth phases significantly (p˂0.05) differed in the mineral composition of the tortoises with SAGP showing highest values in Ca2+, PO4-2 and Na+. Conclusions: SAGP of Geochelone nigra has better serum biochemical values than HGP, JGP and AGP. This finding can be used to inform choice of the growth of tortoise when considering consumption and the desired relative nutritional value. Further implication on recreational and farmed are addressed.