The effect of time at which plasma separation occurs on biochemical values in small island flying foxes (Pteropus hypomelanus).

Heparinized blood samples from 15 adult small island flying foxes (Pteropus hypomelanus) were stored at 22 degrees C for 0-, 6-, and 24-hr intervals prior to centrifugation and separation of plasma from erythrocytes. Mean plasma biochemical values of 16 analytes were determined from all samples. Mean values of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, total protein, albumin, globulin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, cholesterol, calcium, sodium, and bilirubin did not change significantly over 24 hr at 22 degrees C. Glucose was decreased at 6 and 24 hr. Potassium and phosphorus increased and chloride decreased, respectively, between 6 and 24 hr.