Or, Asiatic quail may be more sensitive to coniines than the European form, although the two species are very closely related. Other possible culprits include a botulism-like neurotoxin and aristolochic acid, an acid that occurs in some insects quail are reputed to eat. Grivetti is skeptical about the aristolochic acid, however, as Asiatic quails fed this compound also die. A more likely suspect is the seeds of a member of the mint family, Stachys annua. Russian scientists found these seeds in the digestive tracts of quail that caused coturnism and, just as important, this plant sets seed in the various parts of its range at the same time the quail are toxic.
Definitive experiments have yet to be conducted, however.
Answers to any of the other questions about coturnism remain elusive as well, and with the numbers of European quail dwindling, the syndrome might well disappear before we ever solve the mystery. And very tasty indeed. Friends of the National Zoo. All rights reserved.