Ergovaline and Ergot Alkaloid Concentrations Change in Conserved Tall Fescue

Abstract

Ergot alkaloids are toxins in tall fescue that cause severe reductions in animal gain, reproduction, and milk production. This study was conducted over a 2-year period to determine the change in concentrations of ergovaline and total ergot alkaloids in tall fescue as it is conserved as silage, hay, and ammoniated hay. Compared to concentrations in the original pasture, both ergovaline and total ergot alkaloid concentrations were lower in the hay, with ammoniation of the hay resulting in even lower concentrations. In the silage, ergovaline concentrations were lower than original pasture, while total ergot alkaloids were higher. Livestock producers are encouraged to feed hay and ammoniated hay in early winter, as it is less toxic than pastures at that time. Producers should exercise caution when feeding tall fescue silage; although silage may contain reduced concentrations of ergovaline, it may also contain very high concentrations of ergot alkaloids.