P.I, NDUKUBA,A.I.OKAFOR AND J.C.AMAEFULA
Abstract
Sequential adjustments in erythrocytic, leucocvtic and thrombocytic numbers during a twelve month aestivation of the West African lungfish, Protopterus annectens obtained from Oguta lake at Oguta in Imo State, Nigeria were investigated. The results revealed significant polycythaemia, leucocytosis and thrombocythaemia within the first two months of aestivation (p<0.05). As from the fourth month onwards, there was reduced leucopoiesis resulting in leucocyte number coming down to its non-aestivating values (p<0.05) but no leucopenia (p<0.05). Polycythaemia and thrombocythaemia which were observed in the second month persisted throughout the twelve months duration of aestivation (p<0.05). The implications of these haematopoietic adjustments which ensure survival during prolonged aestivation are discussed.