Biosynthesis of chitinases by mammals of the order carnivora

The secretion of chitinases has been examined in six species of Mammals belonging to the order Carnivora. Chitinases were found only in the extracts of the gastric mucosa of two species not adapted to a strictly meat diet [Canidae : dog and fox] while those with exclusive carnivorous habits. [Mustelidae : stoat, ferret, marten ; and Felidae : cat], seem not to secrete the enzyme. These observations confirm the existence of a correlation between the ability of a given species to synthesis nchitinases in digestive system and the feeding habits of the species.