Claviceps paspali
convulsive ergotism
Ergot like fungus, with irregularly spherical, dusky pinkish white sclerotia within the seed. It has a sticky honey dew phase.
Widespread, with poisonings most prevalent in Northland, Auckland and Taranaki (northern half of North Island).
Tremorgenic toxin – and the alkaloids (ergotamine, ergometrine, ergotoxine) and lysergic acid derivatives in low concentrations.
Cattle, sheep and horses. Sporadic occurrence around summer and autumn.
Stilted gait, ataxia, trembling which occurs especially when being driven/moved. Complete paralysis if severe.
No specific lesions. Histopathology shows degeneration of Purkinje cells in cerebellum
Evidence of plant ingestion and clinical signs.
Ryegrass staggers, hypomagnesia (cattle)
Remove from toxic Paspalum, with as little disturbance as possible.
Very good, recovery 2 10 days after removal from toxic pasture.
Conner H.E. The Poisonous Plants In New Zealand. 1992. GP Publications Ltd, Wellington
Parton K, Bruere A.N. and Chambers J.P. Veterinary Clinical Toxicology, 2nd ed. 2001. Veterinary Continuing Education Publication No. 208
4 October, 2007
