Incidence of ryegrass staggers in white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) at Auckland Zoo

Authors: Stephens SL, Hume DE, Bluett SJ, Tapper BA
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 52, Issue 1, pp 48, Feb 2004
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Zoo animal
Subject Terms: Diet/rations/food, Disease/defect, Fungal/yeast, Liver/hepatic disease, Locomotor, Mycotoxicosis, Nervous system/neurology, Nutrition/metabolism, Pasture/crop
Article class: Correspondence

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Abstract:

Ryegrass staggers in two white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) was recorded at Auckland Zoo in March 2001. Mazithi, a 17-year-old female, showed a sudden onset of head and leg tremors, was unsteady on her feet, uncoordinated, and lethargic for 5 days. She was recorded as having displayed similar symptoms in December 1999 and January 2001. Mandhla, a 24-year-old male, also showed similar symptoms for 2 days.
Most perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) plants in pastures in New Zealand contain a naturally occurring fungal endophyte, Neotyphodium lolii. Endophyte-infected perennial ryegrass produces alkaloids that vary in concentration during the year. Some alkaloids enhance the persistence and productivity of ryegrass pastures by protecting them against insect attack. However, when other alkaloids are consumed they can reduce animal performance and lead to health problems…

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