MICROCYSTIN TOXICOSIS IN CATTLE DUE TO OVERGROWTH OF BLUE-GREEN-ALGAE

Toxicosis due to microcystin-containing blue-green algae has been spor adical ly reported in a Most reports of intoxication involve algal blo oms during periods of warm temperatures and abundant sunshine in the s pring or early summer. A case of blue-green algae toxicosis with lesio ns attributable to toxins from Microcystis aeruginosa Is described in 4 cattle from southern Georgia during November. The case was unusual i n that characteristic hepatic necrosis was accompanied by severe mesen teric edema and peritoneal effusion. In addition, weather conditions a nd location are not expected to be conducive to algal blooms. Rapid di agnosis and identification of the probable source of intoxication allo wed the owner to move the herd away from the affected pond. This actio n limited losses to only the 4 cattle.