Mycological survey in feeds intended for psittaciforms and passeriforms raised as pet birds.

QUEIROZ, B.D.,; KELLER, K.M.,; MAGNOLI, C.E.,; ROSA, C.A.R.

Merida, Yucatán, México

Congreso; VI Latin American Congress of Mycotoxicology and II International Symposium on Fungal and Algal Toxins in Industry; 2010

Lately people´s interest in have a pet bird has increased, raising the presence of these animals, frequently psittacines and passerines, in the domestic environment. Its feedstuffs and other agricultural commodities are susceptible to contamination by molds and mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are chemical metabolites produced by various species of fungi that can c immunosuppression, leading to numerous pathologies and consequent economic losses. Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium are the most frequently genera involved in human and animal cases of mycotoxicoses. More than one mycotoxin may exist simultaneously in a particular commodity or ingredient. Generally, the effects of these toxins tend to add up in synergic response, increasing the risk and hazard to animal health and productivity. There are no specific antidotes for mycotoxicoses. It is easier to prevent exposure to mycotoxins than to attempt treatment following their ingestion. Aflatoxins (AFs) are mycotoxins produced by A. flavus and A. parasiticus. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most frequently detected and it has been described as the strongest biologically synthesized hepatocarcinogenic substance that can affect humans and animals. Ochratoxin is produced by some Aspergillus and Penicillium strains. The toxin has an immunosuppressive effect and has been associated with air sacculitis, nephrotoxicity and other symptoms. Checking the mycological quality, control of feedstuffs and commodities destined to birds? consumption is critical for improving animal production and performance.