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Toxigenic fungi and the deterioration of Nigerian poultry feeds

V W Ogundero1

  • 1Department of Botany, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

Mycopathologia
|November 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

Toxigenic Aspergillus fungi degrade poultry feed, reducing protein and oil content. These fungi produce various enzymes, impacting feed quality and nutrient profiles.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Animal Nutrition
  • Food Science

Background:

  • Toxigenic fungi, including Aspergillus clavatus and Aspergillus flavus, can contaminate feedstuffs.
  • Poultry feed quality is crucial for animal health and productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of Aspergillus clavatus and Aspergillus flavus growth on the nutritional composition of milled poultry feeds.
  • To determine the optimal conditions for fungal growth and enzyme production.

Main Methods:

  • Incubation of milled poultry feed with Aspergillus clavatus and Aspergillus flavus at 30°C.
  • Analysis of feed substrate for protein, oil, and crude fiber content.
  • Determination of extracellular enzyme profiles and optimal growth conditions (temperature, pH, C:N ratio).

Main Results:

  • Significant reduction in protein, oil, and crude fiber content of poultry feed.
  • Increased free fatty acid fractions due to fungal activity.
  • Optimal degradation occurred at 25-30°C and pH 4.8-6.4.
  • Production of various extracellular enzymes including amylases, proteases, and lipases.
  • Specific C:N ratios favored growth and sporulation for each fungal species.

Conclusions:

  • Aspergillus clavatus and Aspergillus flavus significantly degrade poultry feed, altering its nutritional value.
  • Fungal growth and enzyme production are influenced by environmental factors and nutrient availability.
  • Understanding these interactions is vital for preventing feed spoilage and ensuring animal health.

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