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[Microscopic fungi in chicken feed mixtures, their toxigenicity and toxicity for the chick embryo]
Abstract:
Contamination with microscopic fungi was studied in broiler complete feed mixtures in 1983-1984. The contamination levels ranged from 10(1) to 10(5) of fungus units per gram of feed (mostly around 10(3) units per gram). Sixty species of microscopic fungi of sixteen genera were isolated from the feeds. The genera Aspergillus and Penicillium occurred most frequently (97% of samples), followed by Mucor (93%), Cladosporium (79%), Rhizopus (52%) and Fusarium (41%). Of the 64 isolates of ten species of microscopic fungi, 42 (66%) were toxicogenic, and out of 49 such strains, 27 (55%) were toxic.
Insights
Microscopic fungi contaminate broiler feed, with Aspergillus and Penicillium being most common. Many isolates were toxicogenic, posing a risk to poultry health.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Animal Nutrition
- Food Safety
Context:
- Microscopic fungi are common contaminants in animal feed.
- Broiler feed quality is crucial for poultry health and productivity.
- Fungal contamination can lead to mycotoxin production.
Purpose:
- To assess the level and types of microscopic fungi contamination in broiler complete feed mixtures.
- To identify the predominant fungal genera and species present.
- To determine the toxicogenic potential of isolated fungal strains.
Summary:
- Fungal contamination levels in broiler feed ranged from 10^1 to 10^5 CFU/g, with an average around 10^3 CFU/g.
- Sixty fungal species from sixteen genera were identified, with Aspergillus and Penicillium being most prevalent (97% of samples).
- Of the tested isolates, 66% were toxicogenic, and 55% of those strains produced toxins.
Impact:
- Highlights the significant fungal contamination in broiler feed.
- Identifies key fungal genera posing potential risks.
- Underscores the need for monitoring and control of fungal contamination and mycotoxins in poultry feed to ensure animal health and food safety.