Commonly referred to as Verbesina encelioides, wild sunflower contains the toxic compound galegine. It has recently been reported in clinical cases of intoxication in sheep and cattle in several provinces in South Africa, except Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.
The same plant has been reported causing similar clinical signs in other countries. No studies have been conducted on the toxic effects of wild sunflower in South Africa. However, there is evidence of wide distribution of the plant.
We have embarked on an investigation to determine the concentration of galegine in different geographical localities in South Africa. To measure the concentration of galegine, the identification and collection of the plant material is needed. Therefore, we appeal to farmers and people in the field to assist with plant collection (aerial parts of 10 plants plus GPS coordinates) if it is present on farms, as well as reporting any suspected cases of intoxication. The information or any further questions can be emailed to Dr Asive Luningo, via Madelyn de Wet at madelyn.dewet@up.ac.za.
Denne historien er fra December 08, 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra December 08, 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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New farmers' seedling pitfalls
Inexperienced farmers may be tempted to grow seedlings from seed themselves, but they have much to gain by trusting a seedling grower at a nursery to perform this task for them instead
South African avocado production: a success story
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An agribusiness's dedication to community upliftment
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Empowering dreams, transforming lives
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Foreign investment: agriculture maintains its appeal
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The real value and message of COP29 for SA agriculture
While the 2024 Conference of the Parties may have disappointed those who hoped for real progress, it's more important for South African agriculture to highlight its role in carbon mitigation
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Tips for better olive production
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More effort needed to protect vulnerable cheetah
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