Mycoflora of the toxic feeds associated with equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM) outbreaks in Brazil.

This research conducted from 1988 to 1990 studied the fungi present in horse feed associated with outbreaks of Equine Leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM), a neurological disorder in horses, in Brazil. It was found that the most common mold was Fusarium spp., present in 97.4% of samples, and most prevalent when feed moisture content was above 15%.

Overview of the Research

• The research was carried out between 1988 and 1990, investigating the types of fungi (mycoflora) present in the feed of horses affected by Equine Leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM), a disease that causes damage to the brain and spinal cord of horses, in Brazil.
• The focus was on the fungi present in 39 feed samples from 29 different ELEM outbreaks. The primary goal of the research was to identify which species of fungi were most commonly associated with the outbreaks.

Key Findings

• The research revealed that a genus of fungi, Fusarium spp., was the most common mold in the tested samples, occurring in 97.4% of the cases. This was followed by Penicillium spp. in 61.5% of the samples, and Aspergillus spp. in 35.9% of them.
• It was also found that the moisture content of the feed played a crucial role in the growth and development of Fusarium spp. Specifically, feed samples with over 15% moisture content were more likely to harbor this mold.
• In the Fusarium genus, F. moniliforme was the leading species, accounting for 82.0% of cases. However, two other species, F. proliferatum and F. subglutinans, were identified in smaller percentages (12.8% and 2.6% respectively). These two species aren’t typically associated with animal poisoning, and their presence in horse feed samples from epizootic areas has not been previously documented in Brazil.

Significance of the Research

• This research provides valuable insights concerning the prevalent mycoflora present in horse feed linked to ELEM outbreaks. By identifying the fungi species connected to these outbreaks, preventive and intervention strategies can be developed to manage and reduce future cases.
• The study also suggests the necessary conditions (such as high moisture content of feed) favoring the growth of harmful fungi, highlighting the importance of appropriate feed storage and handling practices to prevent fungal growth and subsequent outbreaks.
• The revelation of F. proliferatum and F. subglutinans in the horse feed samples from outbreak areas marks a significant contribution as this has been undocumented in Brazil previously. The detection of these species expands understanding of potentially hazardous mycoflora species that could lead to more robust and comprehensive preventive measures.