Lipids from the paracloacal glands of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis).

Lipids from the paracloacal glands of adult and of immature American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Acetate esters (C12-C18) were indicated in the adults' secretions. Immature alligators contain C10-C18 acetates, C12-C18 dodecanoates, tetradecanoates and other high molecular weight esters, and C10-C16 3-methyl-butanoates. Cholesterol, C16 and C18 free fatty acids, and α-tocopherol (vitamin E) were detected in some samples. The results are compared with those published for South American caiman species.