Maize

Known as corn in the US. Maize can be harvested as a grain crop or as a whole crop for silage. Warmer climates are typically more suitable for the grain crop, allowing it to ripen. The US and China produce large amounts of maize.

Mastitis

Inflammation of the mammary gland of the udder. Can be caused by various factors, such as physical damage or infection due to various pathogens, either contagious or environmental.

Moniliformin

A mycotoxin produced by various Fusarium moulds, including Fusarium proliferatum. It is extremely toxic to young chicks and other young poultry species, causing cardiac injury. Low levels of moniliformin will reduce growth rates, increase heart size, reduce immunity and cause cardiac lesions.

Mould

A type of fungus that grows by producing hyphae, multicellular filaments. Much larger than yeasts.

Mycelium

A network of hyphae. Mycelium cement maize kernels together, resulting in grain that cannot be separated.

Mycophenolic acid

A mycotoxin produced by various Penicillium moulds and found in silage. An immunosuppressant.

Mycosorb A+

An Alltech yeast cell wall and algae based mycotoxin adsorbent that is added to animal feedstuffs to significantly reduce the effects of mycotoxins on animals. Can be used in all species, but most commonly in cattle, pigs and poultry.

Mycotoxicosis

A toxic reaction in the body of animals/humans who have ingested mycotoxins.

Mycotoxin

A toxic substance with a low molecular weight, produced by certain moulds. Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites so are only produced when the mould is stressed in order to protect the spores. Conditions defined as ‘stressful’ vary depending on the species of mould but generally include increased levels of moisture and heat. Mycotoxins affect the health of both animals and humans. Over 500 mycotoxins have been discovered to date. Each mycotoxin affects the animal/human in a certain way, with some mycotoxins being carcinogenic, neurotoxic and immunosuppressive.