Project Number: 6227-21310-007-22
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Jul 15, 2003
End Date: Jul 14, 2008

Objective:
The overall objective of this research is to minimize economic losses from fescue toxicosis. Specific objectives include: 1) development of plant germplasm that is both non-toxic and persistent, which could involve germplasm infected with novel endophytes or germplasm that is endophyte-free; 2) development of management practices that reduce effects of heat stress associated with fescue toxicosis in animals; 3) evaluation of compounds that might reduce fescue toxicosis; and 4) identification of markers of animal sensitivity to fescue toxicosis.

Approach:
Tall fescue, infected with endophytes that do not produce animal toxic alkaloids, will be tested for animal toxicosis in feeding and grazing trials. Persistence of new germplasms will be measured in grazed pastures. Endophyte-free germplasm will be developed by field screening genotypes and ecotypes of tall fescue under grazing. Endophyte-free germplasm with increased concentrations of plant proteins associated with nematode resistance will be tested for persistence. New approaches to monitor body temperature will be established and used to evaluate techniques for reducing heat stress. Treatments that promote healthy immune systems, like antioxidant activity and body temperature regulation, will be assessed for effects on severity of fescue toxicosis under field and in climate-controlled environmental chambers. Genetic and physiological markers of animal sensitivity to heat stress and fescue toxicosis will be identified to improve selection of animals that are more resistant to these problems.

Project Team

Brauer, David - Dave Donald Spiers - Professor (479)675-3834

Related National Programs

Food Animal Production (101)   Rangeland, Pasture, and Forages (205)