The fungus Rhizoctonia legumicola growing in red clover and other legumes (black patch disease) produces the mycotoxin slaframine. Consumption by horses and cattle results in profuse salivation (slobber syndrome). This mycotoxicosis is relatively common throughout the Midwest. The syndrome in horses is characterized by excessive salivation and can be accompanied by anorexia, diarrhea, polyuria and stiffness. Abortions have been reported. In cattle, slobbering and episodic increases in lacrimation occur. This can be accompanied by watery diarrhea and bloat. Difficult breathing has been reported in sheep and pigs. Slaframine itself is not toxic before being consumed, but is transformed by the animal into a toxic compound.
Categories: Stored Grain, Fungi, Slobber Syndrome, Facial Eczema, Slaframine
Date: 11/11/2007
