Mycotoxin Summary Results
Larry Roth, Ph.D., PAS, Vice President of Nutrition
Mycotoxin summary results for October 1, 2022 through March 31, 2023 are displayed in figures 1 and 2 for TMR and corn silage samples, respectively. Generally, Eastern States, with higher rainfall patterns, posted higher mycotoxin levels than the Plains States experiencing drier conditions or drought.
Ohio’s TMR assay results were most problematic with a combination of elevated DON and zearalenone readings to affect both digestion/nutrient absorption and reproductive success. Interestingly, Ohio’s corn silage zearalenone levels were not that concerning, suggesting that by-products being fed could be significant zearalenone contributors to the Ohio TMR values. Conversely, Michigan TMR mycotoxin levels were somewhat lower than what might be predicted from the state’s corn silage assays.
High fumonisin corn silages values were observed along the Eastern Seaboard from South Carolina through North Carolina, Virginia and into Maryland and Pennsylvania. Fortunately, other feed ingredients must have been relatively low in fumonisin to create the safe levels seen in the TMR samples.
I encourage you to participate in the Agrarian mycotoxin testing program. We are emphasizing recording crop year for the corn silage samples to identify year to year changes, as well as variability through the year. In addition, please consider the value of monthly monitoring of TMR and corn silage for mycotoxin variation. Proactive sampling may help to identify challenges before escalating. Contact your Agrarian representative for the latest on mycotoxin evaluation.
