Field Conditions For Corn Raise Questions
11/12/2009 11:24AM
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Wet field conditions this fall are raising concerns over mycotoxins as Fusarium, Gibberella and Diplodia ear rot is being observed in several areas. This is not limited to Kentucky as other states throughout the cornbelt and Northern Plains are experiencing similar wet conditions this fall making dry down a challenge and providing conditions for molds to flourish. Fusarium fungi, Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus flavis can produce mycotoxins which are of concern to livestock producers as they can be detrimental to livestock performance.
Beef cattle are less susceptible to these mycotoxins than are monogastric species such as poultry and swine. However, this should not be interpreted such that beef cattle are not affected by mycotoxins. Dairy cattle with high dry matter intakes of corn-based diets are at higher risk. Younger cattle such as weaned calves are more susceptible to mycotoxicosis than older cattle.
Table 1. Action levels for total aflatoxins in the diets or feed offered to cattle.
Adapted from Henry, FDA 2006. Ppb=parts per billion.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides levels for mycotoxins in the diets of livestock. These levels are provided in Tables 1, 2 and 3 for various mycotoxins found in grains/feeds. Producers are encouraged to obtain a representative sample and test suspect corn prior to feeding to determine if any mycotoxins are present and if so at what levels.
Table 2. Guidance levels for total fumonisins in animal feeds offered to ruminants.
** Dry weight basis. Ppm=parts per million
For additional information on mycotoxins, readers are encouraged to review publications ID-121, ID-59, and PPFS-MISC-01.
Table 3. Advisory levels for vomitoxin (DON) in livestock feed offered to beef cattle.
Source: Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler, University of Kentucky Extension Beef Cattle Specialist