Nitrite and nitrate poisoning with special reference to 'Grasslands Tama' ryegrass

Authors: Neilson FJA
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 22, Issue 1-2, pp 12-13, Jan 1974
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock
Subject Terms: Toxicology, Poisoning - plant, Poisoning - chemical
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: The July 1973 issue of the New Zealand Journal of Agriculture discussed the Tama revolution. No mention was made of the possibility of nitrite poisoning in cattle grazing “Grasslands Tama” (tetraploid westerwolds) ryegrass. There have been deaths from nitrite poisoning in cattle grazing Tama ryegrass and other crops in many districts this year, and this experience with a brief discussion on nitrite/nitrate poisoning is presented for the guidance of those who may be considering Tama ryegrass as a fodder crop. All plants absorb nitrate and ammonium compounds from the soil and convert them into plant proteins, chlorophyll and other essential components. Few plants ordinarily have high nitrate contents but the levels of nitrate are determined in part by the amount of nitrate available and the rate of growth. Plants have the ability to accumulate large quantities of nitrate, particularly when warm rains follow a dry summer, since soil nitrate levels tend to be high because of lack of growth and, therefore, utilization…

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