Added Dietary Vegetables And Fruits Improved Coat Quality Of Capybara In Seoul Zoo, Republic Of Korea: A Case Study
November 2016
in “
Zoo biology
”
Studysummary This study observed that increasing dietary vitamin C in capybaras significantly improved their skin, coat, and weight, though other nutrients might also have contributed to their improved condition.
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In a case study at Seoul Zoo, four capybaras suffering from hair and weight loss, as well as dermatitis, showed significant improvement in coat quality and overall health after their diet was supplemented with additional vegetables, leafy greens, and fruits, increasing dietary vitamin C from ∼300-400 to >600 mg/kg dry matter. Within 6 months, their hair became thicker and glossier, and they gained weight. The study concluded that adequate dietary vitamin C, along with other nutrients like vitamin B6, is crucial for preventing hair loss and dermatitis in capybaras.
