Mycobiota and mycotoxins of equine feedstuffs in the central region of Argentina.

GONZALEZ PEREYRA M.L.,; KELLER K.M.,; KELLER L.M.,; CAVAGLIERI L.R.,; QUEIROZ B.D.,; OLIVEIRA A.,; TISSERA J.L.,; DALCERO A.M.,; MAGNOLI C.,; ROSA C.A.R.

REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE MEDICINA VETERINARIA

SOC MEDICINA VETERINARIA ESTADO RIO DE JANEIRO

Lugar: SOC MEDICINA VETERINARIA ESTADO RIO DE JANEIRO; Año: 2009 vol. 31 p. 24 - 29

0100-2430

Agricultural commodities frequently used in equine feed formulation are commonly contaminated by moulds and more than one mycotoxin may exist simultaneously in a particular commodity or ingredient. Argentina is the first producer of polo horses worldwide and the sixth producer of race horses. No data on mycological quality of equine feeds have been reported in this country to date. The aims of this study were to study the mycobiota and mycotoxins of raw feedstuffs collected in the central region of Argentina. Total fungi, Aspergillus and Fusarium species occurrence were examined. Aflatoxins (AFs), zearalenone (ZEA) and fumonisins (FBs) were detected. Aspergillus and Fusarium species occurrence were examined.  A. flavus was the most frequently isolated species (45%). Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ZEA were detected in 35% and 29% samples, respectively. Fumonisin B1 (FB1) was not detected. Samples had total fungal counts over the recommended limits. Mycotoxins analyses revealed a high contamination frequency particularly with AFB1 (36%) and ZEA (28%) in raw feedstuffs samples. High prevalence of potential mycotoxins producers may be indicative of potential toxicological problems in equine feeds. Monitoring mycological and mycotoxicological quality of feedstuffs used in equine husbandry are critical for improving animal production and performance.