Fescue toxicosis

Most of the tall fescue pastures in the United States are infected by an endophyte, N. coenophialum. The fungus derives nutrients from the plant while supplying the plant with toxins for defense. The most detrimental toxins for animals in tall fescue are ergopeptine alkaloids, especially ergovaline....

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Bibliographic Details
Published inThe Veterinary clinics of North America. Equine practice Vol. 17; no. 3; p. 567
Main Author Blodgett, D J
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.12.2001
Subjects
Animal Feed - poisoning
Animals
Ergotism - physiopathology
Ergotism - veterinary
Female
Food Microbiology
Horse Diseases - diagnosis
Horse Diseases - physiopathology
Horses
Plant Poisoning - diagnosis
Plant Poisoning - physiopathology
Plant Poisoning - veterinary
Poaceae - poisoning
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Complications - diagnosis
Pregnancy Complications - physiopathology
Pregnancy Complications - veterinary
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Summary:Most of the tall fescue pastures in the United States are infected by an endophyte, N. coenophialum. The fungus derives nutrients from the plant while supplying the plant with toxins for defense. The most detrimental toxins for animals in tall fescue are ergopeptine alkaloids, especially ergovaline. Ergovaline functions as a dopamine D2 agonist and alters prolactin and several other hormones in the body. Pregnant mares are most susceptible during their last month of gestation. Clinical signs include prolonged gestation, dystocia, retained placentas, agalactia, and dysmature foals that are either stillborn or weak.
ISSN:0749-0739
DOI:10.1016/S0749-0739(17)30052-4