Mycotoxins should not be underestimated

Mycotoxins are the general term for toxic substances produced by fungi. Only certain strains of certain fungi can produce mycotoxins under certain conditions.
Corn and small grains are particularly prone to accumulate mycotoxins in their seed tissues, although the stem parts of these crops may also be contaminated by toxin-producing molds. In an aerobic, high-humidity environment, mold may continue to grow and produce toxins in improperly stored grains.

The content of mycotoxins in feed or feed ingredients only becomes a problem when it exceeds the risk level determined by the individual animal species (see Table 1). Contamination levels of mycotoxins are calculated in parts per million (ppm) and parts per billion (ppt).
The biggest risk factor for mycotoxin contamination in corn production
• Humid environment at the heading stage can cause (gibberellin ear rot; deoxynivalenol and zearalenol).
• Drought and high temperature during grain maturity (Fusarium and Gibberella stalk rot; Fusarium ear rot; Fumonisins).
• Insect infestation or other mechanical external forces cause ear or stem damage.
• Delayed maturity/delayed harvest.
• Grain or silage is contaminated during storage.
• Insufficient drying or poor ventilation when storing dried grains.
• Failed to effectively remove the air in high humidity and anaerobic storage.

what can we do?
The following are field practices to reduce the risk of mycotoxins contamination in corn:
• Plant timely hybrid varieties that are adapted to the local area, have suitable maturity and are partially resistant to ear rot of Gibberella.
• Avoid continuous planting of corn in a conservation tillage mode, especially where Gibberella/Fusarium stalk rot is prevalent.
• Apply fertilization according to soil tests to avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer.
• Avoid pressure from pests, weeds, and excessive plant populations.
• Plan the harvest and subsequent grain processing in advance.
• Thoroughly clean the barn before storing new crops.
• When harvesting crops with delayed maturity or high lodging potential as silage or grains for anaerobic storage, the grains should be quickly dried to a moisture content of 13.5%.
• Ventilate the barn to prevent moisture migration due to low temperatures.
• Harvest the silage at the recommended plant maturity and pack it properly to eliminate air bubbles.