Microscopic particles produced by fungi to allow them to produce asexually. Different spores have different properties, however they are adapted for dispersal. Mycotoxins are produced when the mould is stressed to protect spores.

Spore(s)

A non-trichothecence mycotoxin produced by many Fusarium moulds. Alters brain chemistry in pigs and acts synergistically with DON.

Fusaric acid

Zearalenone is converted to β-zearalenol, in the digestive tract of animals (α-zearalenol is also formed from zearalenone). Less β-zearalenol is formed from zearalenone than α-zearalenol. β-zearalenol has a lower affinity for oestrogen receptors than zearalenone, but is toxic to endometrial cells.

β-zearalenol

A substance formed when zearalenone is broken down in the digestive tract of animals. More potent than zearalenone.

α-zearalenol

Wheat planted in autumn and harvested the following summer. In countries that do this, winter wheat yields are usually higher than spring wheat yields.

Winter Wheat

A cereal grain, but can also be harvested as straw for cattle. Wheat is grown for both the human food industry and for animal feedstuffs. It makes up a large portion of swine and poultry diets. Can be contaminated with a range of fungi that are capable of producing many mycotoxins if stressful conditions are present

Wheat

Largest family of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium species, divided into 4 subgroups, with 2 major groups being type A and type B trichothecenes. Type A trichothecenes include T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin and Diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS). Type B trichothecenes include deoxynivalenol (DON) and nivalenol.

Trichothecenes

A complete ration, fed to livestock, containing different feedstuffs used to meet their nutritional requirements. A TMR for cattle may contain a mixture of silage, concentrates and other ingredients depending upon what the farmer and nutritionist decide is most suitable. If collecting samples to analyse for mycotoxin contamination, the TMR should be used to give a representative sample of the entire diet fed to the animal.

Total Mixed Ration (TMR)

Species

sp.

The interaction of 2 or more substances, e.g mycotoxins, that produce more negative health effects than the sum of the separate effects of individual substances.

Synergism Find out more