Evaluation of Probiotic Supplementation on Body Weight and Nutritional Status in Captive Asian Elephants (Elephas Maximus)

Abstract

Gastrointestinal health is important for maintaining the nutritional status and overall condition of captive elephants. This study evaluated the effects of probiotic supplementation on body weight, body condition score (BCS), morphometric parameters, and fecal characteristics in captive Asian elephants. A three-month study was conducted at the Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre, Pahang, Malaysia, involving two adult female elephants: Ani (control) and Langsat (treatment). Langsat received probiotic supplementation in addition to the standard diet, while Ani was maintained on the standard diet alone. Parameters recorded included body weight, BCS, abdominal girth, body length, and fecal characteristics such as consistency, color, and pH. The control elephant maintained relatively stable body weight, BCS, and morphometric measurements throughout the study. The treatment elephant showed fluctuations in body weight with slight increases in abdominal girth and body length during the supplementation period. Fecal characteristics remained within normal ranges in both elephants; however, the treatment elephant demonstrated a tendency toward firmer fecal consistency over time. Overall, the observed changes in the treatment elephant were modest and comparable to those of the control. In conclusion, probiotic supplementation did not result in substantial improvements in body weight, BCS, or morphometric parameters compared to the control. Nevertheless, minor positive changes in certain parameters, particularly fecal consistency, suggest a potential beneficial effect on gastrointestinal health. Further studies involving larger sample sizes and more controlled experimental conditions are recommended to better evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics in captive elephants.