Canadian grain is frequently infested by these organisms. Ochratoxins are associated with kidney and liver damage. Abortions have also been reported. Ergotism Ergot toxicity is most frequently seen during wet seasons. Claviceps purpurea, the offending fungus, infects the seed heads of rye, triticale, wheat, barley, oats and some grasses.
Abortion is one of the symptoms which follows consumption of infected plants.
Penicillium molds Penicillium roquefortii is sometimes found on moldy grains and silage. It is associated with abortion, retained placenta and reduced fertility in cattle. Summary Abortion and death of newborn calves due to L. monocytogenes , fungal invasion of the pregnant uterus and Vitamin A deficiency are occasionally observed in Alberta cattle herds. Reproductive failure caused by moldy sweet clover poisoning, allergy and mycotoxicosis are less frequent. When moldy feeds are suspected in cases of infertility, abortion, or the death of calves, a complete history and a toxicologic analysis of feed is required to establish a diagnosis.