Cytology of haematological cells of otariid seals indigenous to Australasian waters

Abstract

Objective: To characterise the morphology of cells from the blood of otariid seals. Methods: Examination of blood by light and scanning electron micrcoscopy. Results: Erythrocytes were typically discocytes. Leukocytes that were recognised included neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils. The morphology varied little between species for neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes. Some variation between species was observed for eosinophils and basophils. Platelets were generally aggregated. Conclusion: This study provides a guide for the identification of cells from the blood of otariid seals.