Caterpillars, cherry trees may take blame for foal deaths in Kentucky.

This research paper discusses the possibilities of caterpillars and cherry trees causing foal deaths in Kentucky, outlining a hypothesis that cyanide from cherry trees, possibly transferred via eastern tent caterpillars, might be at the root of the problem. The main aim of this study was to investigate the cause of the alarmingly high mortality rate among foals in Kentucky, an issue that is of major concern to the state’s horse farming industry.

Context of the Research

• The study was prompted by the unusual rate of foal deaths in Kentucky. The University of Kentucky’s Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center reported a significant number of dead fetuses and foals were brought for examination during a short period between April and May.
• In reaction to this, a team of researchers, including private veterinarians and faculty from the University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research Center, initiated an investigation.

Course of Investigation

• The initial focus of the investigation was on mycotoxins present in pastures. Mycotoxins are a group of naturally occurring chemicals produced by molds, which could cause health issues in both humans and animals. The team believed these to be the cause of the foals’ health issues.
• However, the results of tests on pasture samples proved negative for mycotoxins, prompting the team to look towards other possible causes.

Possible Role of Cherry Trees and Caterpillars

• The revised theory, as put forth by the study, proposes that cyanide naturally present in cherry trees may have affected the mares, leading to the reproductive issues. Cyanide is a toxic compound known for its harmful effects on living organisms.
• An addendum to this theory is the possible role of eastern tent caterpillars. Primarily found in wild cherry trees, the researchers speculate that these caterpillars may have been a medium for transferring the cyanide to the mares.
• In support of this theory, glance observations showed that most farms severely affected by the foal deaths had a presence of cherry trees with heavy infestations of eastern tent caterpillars.

Further Research Required

• Despite these preliminary findings, the investigators called for caution and urged further validation of the theory.
• Scott Smith, the dean and director of the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, emphasized that while the current observations are promising, they have not yet met reasonable standards of scientific proof, and therefore further study is essential before conclusions can be drawn and remedies formulated.