Insects are known to be poor sources of preformed vitamin A, leading to the speculation that insectivorous species, including reptiles, may be able to convert carotenoid precursors to meet dietary requirements for this nutrient. This study was conducted to indirectly evaluate carotenoid and vitamin A metabolism in the panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis). Eggs were obtained from females in Madagascar that were yolked either early or later in the breeding season, and carotenoid (α-and β-carotene, cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene), vitamin A, and vitamin E concentrations were measured in egg contents in early, middle, or late embryonic development. An overall trend of decreased nutrient concentration as eggs matured (from egg period 1 (yolks) to egg period 3 (embryos)) was seen within both clutch groups. The season of clutch deposition was a significant influence on egg weight, α-carotene, and lutein/zeaxanthin concentrations, but on no other nutrients. Chameleon yolks contained considerably higher levels of carotenoids than levels previously reported from two viviparous lizard species, and β-carotene concentrations were of the same magnitude as reported in grazing tortoises. β-Carotene and β-cryptoxanthin were the predominant carotenoids in yolk and embryos, comprising about 95% of total carotenoids detected. Measurable concentrations of retinol at all stages of egg development in the chameleons suggests effective conversion from carotenoid precursors, with concentrations similar to those measured in other lizard eggs. Information from eggs obtained in native habitats may provide baseline data on nutrient interactions to improve and optimize captive dietary management; preliminary data suggest that micronutrient environments may vary over the protracted breeding season, with possible implications for embryo health and survival. Zoo Biol 21: 295-303, 2002.
Purpose-As sustainability efforts have increased across the apparel and textile industries, consumers are being exposed to an increasing variety of information and label claims. The purpose of this paper is to determine consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for locally produced animal fiber products with organic and alternative labeling schemes, which included eco-friendly, natural and sustainable. Design/methodology/approach-Experimental auctions were used to elicit bids on wool socks from consumers across three Southern US states. Means were computed for the various bids, as well as bid differences before and after definitions. To test for significance, non-parametric Wilcoxon signedrank tests for matched pairs were performed for all differences investigated. Findings-Consumers indicated higher WTP for all versions over conventional wool socks, with the highest WTP exhibited for organic. WTP for organic versions further increased after definitions were provided. Natural and eco-friendly versions had larger premiums than sustainable, but this difference disappeared after definition. Research limitations/implications-The experimental setting brings the results closer to actual consumer behavior, but eliminated many additional variables that consumers consider. Practical implications-The results of this paper indicate that policy makers should consider definitions and certification for claims besides organic to potentially benefit wool producers. Originality/value-This research provides consumer WTP comparisons for a variety of labeling terms currently appearing on wool apparel products. Uncovering this information provides greater understanding of consumer WTP for wool with such attributes, especially after definitions are presented.
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