Abstract
Silage is one of the most important feed sources for bovines. Mycotoxin contamination of feedstuffs is a worldwide concern. The aim of this study was to compare mycobiota and levels of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁), fumonisin B₁ (FB₁), deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEA) and patulin (PAT) in corn trench silos and silo bags. Dry matter was higher in trench silos. Counts varied from not detected to 10⁸ CFU g⁻¹ in both trench silos and silo bags. Isolation frequencies of Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp. were higher in trench silos, whereas Penicillium spp. was higher in silo bags. Silo bags showed less diversity than trench silos. Strains isolated produced AFB₁, FB₁ and PAT. In trench silos, AFB₁ was the only mycotoxin detected (1-160 µg kg⁻¹). In silo bags AFB₁ levels varied from 5.8 to 47.4 µg kg⁻¹. DON was detected in two silo bag samples. When handling is adequate the reduction of mould and mycotoxin contamination in silo bags is considerable. This study will enable estimation of the mycotoxicological risk of different ensiling practices and determination of the most adequate method to minimize economic losses and reduce hazard to animal and human health.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.