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CSIRO project on acute bovine liver disease
8 Jun 2004
CSIRO Livestock Industries is undertaking a research project to determine the cause of a liver disease affecting dairy cattle in southern Australia. Although acute bovine liver disease seems to be associated with the native grass rough dog's tail (Cynosurus echinatus), the true cause remains elusive.
Scientists have been studying a fungus isolated from pasture species collected in paddocks where afflicted animals have grazed. Cultured cells are exposed to purified extracts of the fungus to see if the hepatotoxins that cause acute bovine liver disease can be produced.
The disease causes jaundice, photosensitization and sudden death in cattle over six months of age. Animals in Victoria, Tasmania, Western Australia, and southeast South Australia have been affected. If the source can be identified, more effective management advice can be provided to producers, preventing exposure to the toxins and the consequent loss of stock and production, a scientist said.
CSIRO Media Release, 2/6/04.
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