Skip to main content
ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #129898
Title: ANTI-QUALITY FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ALKALOIDS IN EASTERN TEMPERATE PASTURE

Author
item THOMPSON, F. - UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
item Stuedemann, John
item HILL, N. - UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA

Submitted to: Journal of Range Management
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/10/2001
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: This review covers predominant cool-season grasses, that are utilized in the humid pasture areas of eastern United States that contain anti-quality compounds. The purpose of this review is to discuss the consequences and potential for minimizing or overcoming the effects of these compounds. The grasses covered are all considered temperate grasses. The consequences of the anti-quality compounds are severe, but there are options for overcoming them. Many of the consequences can be overcome or reduced by using certain grazing management practices.

Technical Abstract: Numerous grass species contain anti-quality compounds as survival or defense mechanisms. The purpose of this review is to discuss the consequences and potential for minimizing or overcoming them in livestock. The greatest anti-quality factor associated with eastern temperate pasture grasses is the result of ergot alkaloids found in endophyte-infected (Neotyphodium coenophialum) tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.). The relationship between the grass and the endophyte is mutualistic with greater persistence and herbage mass as a result of the endophyte. Ergot alkaloids reduce growth rate, lactation, and reproduction in livestock. Significant effects on the animal are the result of elevated body temperature and reduced peripheral blood flow such that tissue necrosis may result. Perturbations also occur in a variety of body systems. Planting new pastures with seed containing a 'non-toxic'endophyte appears to be a potential solution. Ergotism results from ingestion of the sclerotia of Claviceps purpurea containing ergot alkaloids found on seed heads. Ergotism resembles the effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue. Endophyte-infected perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) Contains ergot and lolitrem alkaloids that result in reduced growth and tremors. Reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) contains tryptamine, hordenine and gramine alkaloids that reduce animal growth. Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) may contain galls with cornetoxins which can result in neurological symptoms. The consequences of the anti-quality compounds are severe, but there are options for overcoming them. Many of the consequences can be overcome or reduced by using certain grazing management practices.