Endophyte seed should not be used to feed livestock.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only for cattle
• D. Only for sheep

Answer: (A)

Endophyte-infected grasses can produce alkaloids that are toxic to livestock when ingested. These fungal compounds, while useful for deterring herbivores and pests, can cause a range of health problems in animals, including reduced weight gain, reproductive issues, heat intolerance, and in some cases neurological symptoms. Because the seed itself can carry the endophyte and its alkaloids, feeding endophyte-infected seed to livestock introduces these toxins directly to the animals. To protect animal health, endophyte-infected seed is not used as livestock feed. If forage is needed, producers choose seed with non-toxic or novel endophyte strains for pastures or endophyte-free options to minimize risks while still maintaining other agronomic benefits.