Pasture spore counting

   
Facial eczema is caused by the ingestion of toxic spores produced by a fungus called Pithomyces chartarum that grows in the dead pasture litter layer of the pasture.

Monitoring of the numbers of fungal spores (spore counting) is a very useful tool to help with the timing of preventative measures.​
Regular monitoring of fungal spore numbers , enables correct timing of preventative measures Regular monitoring of fungal spore numbers , enables correct timing of preventative measures
​Pasture Spore Counting is a useful proactive tool to monitor the number of facial eczema spores on the pasture.  Regular testing gives a good indication of the overall disease challenge that the animals face.  Results may range from zero to several hundred thousand spores per gram of pasture.
 
Pasture spore counting does have the disadvantage that it is difficult to sample in exactly the same manner as the animals are going to graze, and there are large variations in the spore count between different parts of the same paddock and between paddocks.
 

Sampling process

The sampling site depends on the type of farm and the management policy. If all the animals are in one group only the paddocks due to be grazed need be sampled. If set stocked then sample the dangerous paddocks.
 
Points to note
 

Spore counts on north and west facing slopes are usually higher than east and south facing slopes

Flat paddocks generally have lower counts than slopes above them as cool air flows downward at night

Paddocks with a lot of pasture litter and those that are well sheltered often have higher counts

 

Sample collection instructions

 

Using shears or scissors, cut a handful of pasture from about 1cm above ground level at not less than five places, which are at least 10m apart

Avoid parts of paddocks which are sheltered by trees or hedges. Take separate samples if you need to know spore numbers under hedges

Sample from an area of even slope and take enough pasture to fill the sample bag

If you sample the same site regularly, follow the same route across it

Take samples at least 3 times a week and more often if the weather favours spore production.  Spore numbers will rise in the absence of rain if the weather is humid, particularly late in the season.  Numbers do not always rise immediately after rain and the peak may occur up to a week after the last fall

Place the sample bag and the completed submission form into the courier pack

Phone the courier to arrange collection of the courier pack. (the phone number is on the reverse of the courier bag)

Refrigerate (but do not freeze) the courier pack until it is sent (it can last for several days in the fridge)

Do not send on a Friday or the day before a public holiday

 
For further information, to make arrangements for testing or to speak with one of our animal health team, please contact our Ravensdown Customer Centre on 0800 100 123.