Effects of recombinant human growth hormone in juvenile Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus).

Abstract

1. Recombinant human growth hormone (hGH) showed somatotropic activity in juvenile Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus). 2. Body weight of crocodiles receiving 3.25 micrograms hGH/g body weight twice a week was increased by 49% after five weeks of treatment, compared to 31% increase in controls. 3. Total length was increased by 15 and 5%, respectively, in the two groups. 4. Food conversion efficiency increased from 28% in the controls to 36% in the hormone injected animals. 5. Cessation of hormone treatment was followed by reduced appetite and decreasing body growth.