The distribution, diagnoses and estimated economic impact of plant poisonings and mycotoxicoses in South Africa

Abstract

Maps are provided showing the national and provincial distributions of many plant poisonings and mycotoxicoses in South Africa. The various poisonings are briefly described and criteria for their diagnoses are given. The annual mortalities of cattle from plant poisonings / mycotoxicoses in South Africa were calculated as c. 37 665 head with a current cash value of c. R 57 627 450, and that of small stock as c.264 851 head with a value of c. R 46 878 627. The annual total cost of plant poisonings / mycotoxicoses to the livestock industry of South Africa is conservatively estimated at R 104 506 077. These figures do not include hidden losses such as diminished production, reproductive failure, the cost of not utilizing toxic pastures and the fall in price of infested land.