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Ergot

Claviceps purpurea

A species of Ergots, Also known as Pooidae ergot, Rye ergot fungus

The members of the genus Claviceps, including the ergot, are parasitic fungi of cereal crops such as wheat or rye. The ergot contains toxic compounds that can result in death if ingested. Therefore, every infected grain must be removed in order to make a crop safe for human or livestock consumption.

Cap Diameter:

1 - 2 mm

Odor:

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

General Info About Ergot

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Attributes of Ergot

Cap Diameter

1 - 2 mm

Height

1 - 1.3 cm

Cap

1 - 2 mm dia.; banana-shaped; purple, becoming black

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mildly mushroomy but not distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Purple

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Nutrient Gathering

Parasitic

You can find Ergot by these plants:

Species Status

Widely distributed

Endangered Species

How to Identify Ergot

Fruiting Body

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Habitat of Ergot

The ergot is a parasite fungus that attacks hundreds of forage grasses and cereal species. This fungus develops exclusively on the grass flowers, while other parts of the plant remain unaffected.

Distribution Area of Ergot

North America,Europe,Africa,Central and South America,Asia,Australia,New Zealand

Scientific Classification of Ergot

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Toxicity and Edibility of Ergot

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Is Ergot Toxic?

The ergot is a deadly poisonous fungus. The fruiting body of this fungus contains dangerous toxins that can cause numerous health problems in humans, and in most extreme cases, death. The ingestion of any crop infected by the ergot can cause serious illness including hot burning sensations in limbs, the loss of limbs, and a serious gangrenous condition.

Toxins type

Ergotamine, Ergometrine

Toxic Severity

Extreme toxicity

Incubation Period

Hours to days duration

Poisoning Symptoms

It can cause severe symptoms including neurological issues, circulatory problems in limbs, low pulse, limb death, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, paralysis, and sensory disturbances.

Critical conditions may escalate to massive heart attack, acute kidney failure, and respiratory paralysis, potentially leading to death.

Is Ergot Toxic to Dogs?

Ergot contains alkaloids that are highly poisonous to dogs and excess consumption can cause birth problems in female dogs. More dangerous toxins are also present which can cause hallucinations, convulsion, burning limbs, severely restricted blood circulation, and death. Seek immediate veterinary help if you believe your dog has consumed ergot. This fungus attacks seed-bearing grasses so dogs are exposed to poisoning by eating these grains.