Determination of trace elements in the reproduction systems of some rare animals using PIXE [Dosage des éléments traces dans les systèmes de reproduction de certains animaux rares en utilisant la méthode PIXE].

Résumé

In order to search for the significance of artificial feeding, reproduction and heredity, trace elements in the reproductive systems of some rare animals, including giant panda, lesser panda, marmot and river deer, have been determined. Typical X-ray spectra of various samples are given. The elemental contents in ovary and testis of the giant panda and the lesser panda are calculated using yttrium as an internal standard. Elemental relative concentrations are calculated from peak areas in the spectra for thick samples. It is found that for the concentration of the elements Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, As in the ovary there exist no significant differences between the giant panda and the lesser panda. The concentration of Zn, however, shows a remarkable difference. The importance of zinc in biological processes is discussed.