Biochemical Adaptations of Dromedary Camels to Seasonal Environmental Stress

Abstract

Physiological adaptation to environmental stress is a defining feature of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius), particularly in arid ecosystems characterized by seasonal thermal load and water limitation. Such adaptation involves integrated hematological and metabolic regulation aimed at maintaining homeostasis under fluctuating environmental and biological conditions. The present study evaluated age- and season-related physiological variation in clinically healthy dromedary she-camels raised under extensive pastoral systems in eastern Libya, using hematological indices as integrative indicators of physiological and metabolic adjustment. Female camels were categorized into three age groups (3–<6 years, 6–10 years, and >10 years) and sampled across four seasons (winter, spring, summer, and autumn). Hematological parameters assessed included white blood cell count (WBC), red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), and erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCH, and MCHC). Data were analyzed using analysis of variance to determine the effects of age and season. Advancing age was associated with increased leukocyte counts and higher erythrocytic parameters, indicating age-related modulation of immune activity and oxygen transport capacity. Seasonal variation exerted a pronounced effect on erythrocytic profiles, with higher RBC, PCV, and Hb values observed during cooler seasons, consistent with improved hydration status and reduced thermal stress. Variations in erythrocyte indices across age groups and seasons suggest adaptive regulation of red blood cell morphology and hemoglobin content in response to environmental and physiological demands. These findings demonstrate that age and season significantly shape physiological homeostasis in dromedary she-camels. Although assessed through hematological markers, the observed patterns reflect broader metabolic and adaptive processes underlying camel resilience to arid environmental stress. The study provides region-specific baseline information supporting physiologically informed interpretation of laboratory data in camels raised under arid pastoral conditions.