Nitrogen metabolism and renal function in the dik-dik antelope (Rhynchotragus kirkii).
Nitrogen metabolism and kidney function of the dik-dik antelope (Rhynchotragus kirkii) were studied under a range of controlled, experimental conditions and diets. Dik-dik antelope remained in nitrogen balance even when fed a diet low in protein and high in fibre. When fed a diet high in protein (20%) and water ad-libitum, 55.3% of the urea filtered by the kidney was reabsorbed. Limiting water intake increased urea reabsorption to 77.2%. The U/P urea concentrations were maintained at similar ratios on all diets, as well as during dehydration and solute loading. Minimum endogenous nitrogen excreted was 74mg/kg(0.75)/day. Dehydration (water deprivation) and solute loading (intraruminal infusion of 0.25M NaCl) had varying effects on nitrogen metabolism. It is concluded that the metabolic nitrogen economy of the dik-dik antelope is qualitatively similar to that of other domestic and wild ruminants.
Maloiy
GM
Institute of Animal Physiology and Biotechnology Research, P.O. Box 34206, Nairobi, Kenya
Rugangazi
BM
Clemens
ET