Mycotoxins formed by Neotyphodium species, ergovaline and ergovalinine are the most common toxins. Others include ergine, erginine and clavine alkaloids such as argoclavine. These toxins are found in fescue that is infected with Neotyphodium species, however these toxins are less toxic to animals. Neotyphodium species are also capable of producing lolitrem B, which does cause issues to livestock when ingested (see ryegrass staggers).

Ergot alkaloids

A toxin that causes ‘fescue foot’ in cattle due to its vasconstrictive properties. Produced by various endophytes.

Ergovaline

A disease of animals and humans, caused by the ingestion of rye or cereal grains contaminated with Claviceps purpurea, which produce ergot alkaloids. Cattle are the species most at risk. Symptoms include, ataxia, hypersensitivity, convulsions, gangrene, loss of weight, agalactia, lameness and abortion.

Ergotism

A mycotoxin classified as a type A trichothecence produced by many Fusarium moulds. DAS is largely degraded by cattle with a well functioning rumen but is toxic to poultry, causing upper digestive tract lesions. Can be found in a range of crops.

Diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS)

Known as maize in the UK. (See maize).

Corn

A mycotoxin produced most commonly by Penicillium citrinum but also by some species of Aspergillus. It is a neurotoxin. Also causes an increased water consumption, diarrhoea, decreased body weight, enlarged kidneys in poultry and mottled liver. Most commonly found in maize, wheat and barley.

Citrinin

A disease that is classified as chronic is persistent/has long lasting effects.

Chronic

A lymphoid and epithelial organ only found in birds.

Bursa

Typically storage fungi found in warmer countries, however with climate change countries like the UK are seeing an increase in Aspergillus species contamination of crops. Common Aspergillus species include Aspergillus clavatus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus ochraceus and Aspergillus parasiticus, all of which are capable of producing different mycotoxins when stressed.

Aspergillus sp.

In the absence of oxygen.

Anaerobic Find out more