Agriculture department reports high traces of fungi in crops | State News [Video]

AUDRAIN COUNTY — In early February, the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) released a warning for elevated levels of fungi in the state’s crops.

Those fungi are found in crops like barley, wheat and corn. The fungi grow when hot and dry weather is followed by periods of high humidity, and they produce mycotoxins like fumonisin and aflatoxin.

A corn survey report from the MDA found high traces of fumonisin and aflatoxin in corn that grew in Missouri last year. The state’s northern region accounted for higher levels of fungi compared to other regions.

Mary Koestner, manager of the MDA’s Feed and Seed program, said fungi poisoning depends on the animal consuming it.

“Really it’s going to depend on your exposure and the age of the animal, and how much is being eaten, if they are exposed to mycotoxins,” Koestner said.  

Animals that consume high levels of fumonisin could have neurological symptoms like confusion, circling, incoordination and agitation. The MDA’s warning was sent …