Gibberella Ear Rot occurs in maize during cool wet periods of weather following silking in the late summer. 2010 has been ideal in climatic terms to enhance the growth of the fungus.
Gibberella ear rot is caused by the fungus Gibberella zeae, also known as Fusarium graminearum. It is usually identified by a pinkish mould on the clamp face. This is often noticed just below the “salt line” at the top. These fungal infections once in the clamp can go on to generate high levels of micotoxins and can cause issues when feeding. Cows scouring or possibly just loose are all common symptoms.
There is no varietal resistance to this infection as such but it has been suggested that cobs which produce a “snouting” (where the ear extends beyond the leaf sheath) are more susceptible than others.
Farmers who have had a micotoxin analysis completed may find levels of vomitoxin or perhaps zearalenone in particular in the silage. Levels of 0.4+ ppm are cause for concern and may need various binders and yeasts to be fed alongside the maize.
No comments:
Post a Comment