ENDOPHYTE TESTING OF TALL FESCUE: A BENCHMARK FOR PRODUCERS
Applied Research
Amie Schleicher
Field specialist in livestock
UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI EXTENSION
ROCK PORT
Abstract
\r\n Many pastures and hay fields in northwest Missouri are primarily composed of tall fescue, most of which are infected with a fungal endophyte. It is consumption of the endophyte by livestock species that can result in fescue toxicosis, causing numerous negative effects on animal performance. Management practices can be employed that help reduce the consumption of the endophyte. In some cases, however, renovation of those pastures with an improved variety of tall fescue, or a different species altogether, is the best course of action. This is dependent upon the level of infection in the pastures. Tall fescue can be tested for endophyte infection levels. These results, reported in the percentage of tillers infected, can then be used to determine if the infection rate is high enough to warrant consideration of additional preventative steps or renovation. In fall 2010, two producers in northwest Missouri that had previously expressed interest in testing their tall fescue pastures were willing to allow several Extension specialists to sample their pastures and have the tillers analyzed. Numerous photos were taken during sampling to document the process and for use in developing educational materials. Both pastures sampled were old stands of tall fescue, likely Kentucky 31 and likely highly infected. Results indicated infection levels of 84 and 79% on the two farms. Both are considered high levels of infection and must be managed to reduce the consumption of the endophyte and resulting fescue toxicosis. Producers were consulted on options to manage these highly infected tall fescue pastures.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: A.D. Schleicher
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Schleicher, A. Regional Livestock Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 64482