Recently, on the basis of DNA, geographic, and behavioral differences between desert tortoises east and west of the Colorado River, it was decided that two species of desert tortoises exist: the Agassiz's desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) and Morafka's desert tortoise (Gopherus morafkai).dwards et al. report that 35% of desert tortoises in the Phoenix area are hybrids between either Gopherus agassizii and G. morafkai, or G. morafkai and the Texas tortoise, G. berlandieri.
Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) in Blood. Guide. An alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) blood test checks the level of AFP in a pregnant woman's blood. AFP is a substance made in the liver of an unborn baby (fetus). The amount of AFP in the blood of a pregnant woman can help see whether the baby may have such problems as spina bifida and anencephaly.
A healthcare practitioner may order an AFP blood test: 1  When it is suspected that someone has liver cancer or certain cancers of the testicles or ovaries; cancer may be suspected when, for example, lumps are felt in the abdominal area during a physical exam or when imaging tests detect possible tumors.