A major scientific breakthrough has shed new light on facial eczema (FE), offering greater clarity on the disease’s underlying cause and paving the way for more effective prevention and control strategies. Scientists from AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (BLNZ), and LIC have collaborated to advance the understanding of the condition, which significantly affects New Zealand’s livestock industry.
Until now, the toxin responsible for FE, sporidesmin, was believed to be produced by the fungus Pseudopithomyces chartarum (previously known as Pithomyces chartarum). However, new research has revealed that only a small number of Pse. chartarum strains are actually capable of producing sporidesmin. Instead, scientists have identified a newly distinguished species, Pseudopithomyces toxicarius, as the primary source of the toxin.
This discovery marks a critical step in understanding the spread of the fungus and will significantly enhance the ability to manage its impact. By pinpointing the actual species responsible, researchers can now refine current monitoring systems and reduce the risk of misidentifying non-toxic spores as dangerous. This advancement will lead to more accurate assessments of FE risk, an improvement over existing spore-counting methods that may have included harmless fungal strains.
Dr. Cara Brosnahan, BLNZ principal scientist in animal health research, emphasized the importance of the finding, stating that it gives scientists the tools they need to address the disease more effectively. She highlighted the potential of this knowledge to empower farmers with better information and tools to protect their livestock and livelihoods.
However, Brosnahan also noted that traditional methods should not be abandoned. She urged farmers to continue monitoring their pastures and conducting spore counts, explaining that this new discovery enhances, rather than replaces, current management tools. Spore counting remains a vital component of FE risk assessment and remains relevant to farmers managing their regional exposure to the disease.
BLNZ general manager of farming excellence Dan Brier echoed this sentiment, calling the discovery a critical step forward in understanding the pathogen and reducing its impact. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in reaching this point, noting that by working together, researchers and industry stakeholders are better equipped to develop accurate diagnostics and management practices tailored to the disease.
Christine Voisey from AgResearch also noted the long-term significance of the study, expressing optimism that the findings bring researchers closer to creating tools that will help reduce the economic and welfare impact of facial eczema on New Zealand farmers.
Facial eczema is a costly disease for New Zealand’s agriculture, with estimates placing its economic burden at around $332 million annually. This breakthrough discovery offers renewed hope for improved management and a future reduction in its effects on livestock and farming operations.
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