Nagpur: In a curious development, Atul R Deokar, the Assistant Conservator of Forest, Pench Tiger Reserve, has observed osteophagy behaviour of the Indian spotted deer at the reserve.
Osteophagy is the practice in which animals, usually herbivores, consume bones. Most vegetation around the world lacks sufficient amounts of phosphate. Phosphorus is an essential mineral for all animals, as it plays a major role in the formation of the skeletal system, and is necessary for many biological processes including energy metabolism, protein synthesis, cell signaling, and lactation. Phosphate deficiencies can cause physiological side effects, especially pertaining to the reproductive system. Osteophagy is an innate behaviour that allows animals to supplement their phosphorus and calcium uptake in order to avoid the costly effects of deficiencies in these minerals.
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Wed 4 Dec. 2024
An article by Deokar has been published in Journal of Animal Health and Behavioural Science, UK, about the osteophagy behaviour observed in the Indian spotted deer at Pench Tiger Reserve.
Please read the article here.
