Body measurements and testosteron level of male Timor deer (Rusa timorensis) at various hierarchies
Abstract: The aim of this
research was to observe body (neck, chest and scrotum) circumferences and
testosterone level of α-male, β-male and subordinate male Timor deer reared
under captivity after establisment of the dominance hierarchy. Twelve males (51
± 6 months old; 68.29 ± 8.41 kg body weight and in same antler stages) were
used in this research. The bucks was grouped into three stall each containing
four bucks. ELISA kit and tape measurements were used for plasma Testosterone
assay and body measurement, respectively. Data was collected before and 43 days
after establishment of the dominance hierarchy. Wilcoxon signed ranks test and
Kruskal-Wallis H test of non-parametric analysis was used. Significant
difference was tested with Mann-Whitney U test. The results showed no
significantly different for body circumferences (neck, chest, scrotum) and
testosterone level of male Timor deer before establishment of dominance
hierarchy. Chest and scrotum circumferences of male Timor deer after
establihment of dominance hierarchy showed no significantly different.
Significantly difference shown on parameter neck circumference (P<0.05; χ2 =
8.74) and testosteron level (P<0.05; χ2 = 7.87) after establishment of
dominance hierarchy. In conclusion, dominance hierarchy affected the
testosterone level and body measurement.
Keywords: Timor deer; male;
body measurement; testosterone level; hierarchy
Author: D. Samsudewa, S. S.
Capitan, C. C, Sevilla, R. S. A. Vega, P. P. Ocampo
Journal Code: jppeternakangg170058