[Mycoflora of hay and straw]
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Abstract:
Studies were carried out on hay and straw to establish the composition of mycoflora in them. They were sampled both at the time of harvesting and after storing for four to five months. It was found that the hay and straw were most often inseminated with spores of the fungus species Alternaria tenuis, Aspergillus fumigatus, Mucor hiemalis, Penicillium sp., and more rarely with spores of Fusarium, Chaetomium, Scopulariopsis, Cladosporium, Trichoderma, and Stachybotrys alternans. It was demonstrated that when moistening of the feeds set in the period of taking in or in storage the mycoflora increased both in species composition and in extent of insemination. The presence of Alternaria tenuis was mostly demonstrated (up to 85 per cent) for hay, and (up to 100 per cent) for straw.
Insights
This study analyzed the fungal composition of hay and straw, finding that moisture significantly increases mycoflora diversity and abundance. Alternaria tenuis was a dominant fungus in both feed types.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Mycology
- Food Science
Background:
- Hay and straw are crucial feed components for livestock.
- Understanding their mycoflora is essential for animal health and feed quality.
- Fungal contamination can impact nutritional value and pose health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the mycoflora composition of hay and straw.
- To assess the impact of storage conditions on fungal prevalence.
- To identify dominant fungal species in these feedstuffs.
Main Methods:
- Sampling of hay and straw at harvest and after storage (4-5 months).
- Microscopic and cultural methods for mycoflora identification.
- Analysis of fungal species and extent of insemination.
Main Results:
- Commonly identified fungi include Alternaria tenuis, Aspergillus fumigatus, Mucor hiemalis, and Penicillium sp.
- Moisture during collection or storage significantly increased mycoflora species diversity and abundance.
- Alternaria tenuis was prevalent, found in up to 85% of hay and 100% of straw samples.
Conclusions:
- Hay and straw harbor diverse mycoflora, with species composition varying by storage conditions.
- Moisture is a critical factor promoting fungal growth and contamination in stored feed.
- Effective management of moisture is vital to control fungal load in agricultural forages.