| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1972641 | Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Molecular & Integrative Physiology | 2010 | 6 Pages |
Hematological adaptations to age (1–17 years) and about variability per se for free-living rock pigeons Columba livia are presented. Increasing age is correlated with decreasing values of hematocrit and hemoglobin. A marked reduction of lactate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.27) activity in the first 2–3 years may be caused by a training-based increase of the relative portion of the aerobically working red breast muscles (responsible for endurance) at the expense of the proportion of anaerobically working white breast muscles. The age-correlated increase in glucose could indicate a decreasing tolerance for carbohydrates. Optimal flight performance is achieved by the doves at an age of about 2–3 years; the high performance is retained until an age range of 7–9 years.
