Plant poisonings and mycotoxicoses of importance in horses in southern Africa.

This research article explores and discusses various types of plant poisonings and mycotoxicoses (caused by toxic fungi) that can significantly affect horses in Southern Africa. The authors examine both familiar and less-known toxin sources, also delving into potential future threats.

Common Plant Poisonings

• The research begins with an overview of prevalent plant poisonings affecting horses in Southern Africa. The focus is placed on ‘dunsiekte’ and ‘jaagsiekte’, two locally common conditions caused by ingestion of poisonous plants (seneciosis and crotalariosis respectively).
• ‘Dunsiekte’ or seneciosis causes severe liver damage in horses due to the ingestion of certain Senecio species.
• ‘Jaagsiekte’ or crotalariosis is induced by consumption of plants from the Crotalaria genus, leading to a degenerative disease affecting the nervous system of horses.

Mycotoxicoses

• Next, the paper delves into lesser-known mycotoxicoses. These are illnesses that stem from the ingestion of toxin-producing molds or fungi. The authors specifically highlight stachybotryotoxicosis and perennial rye grass staggers.
• Stachybotryotoxicosis is a disease caused by the ingestion of mold from the Stachybotrys genus and can lead to severe health issues in horses, including respiratory and digestive problems.
• Perennial ryegrass staggers results from horses’ consumption of neurotoxin-containing pastures, primarily perennial ryegrass affected by endophytic fungi. It causes neurological issues such as tremors and coordination problems.

Exotic Intoxications

• Further, the paper discusses exotic intoxications that could potentially occur due to the expansion of invasive plant species or changes in climate conditions. They examine equine nigropallidal encephalomalacia and ergot alkaloid poisoning specifically.
• Equine nigropallidal encephalomalacia is a rare neurological disorder caused when horses ingest yellow star thistle or Russian knapweed. It leads to significant brain damage.
• Ergot alkaloid poisoning occurs when horses consume forage or grains infested with ergot fungi. It can lead to a wide range of symptoms from nervous system disruption to gangrene.

Purpose of the Research

• This type of research is essential in understanding various illnesses that can appear in horses due to ingestion of poisoned food sources. By highlighting less-known and potential future risks, it equips equine practitioners in Southern Africa with knowledge that can help prevent, diagnose, and treat such poisonings efficiently.