These comprise a group of Mycotoxins produced by the mould species of the Aspergillus family. Favouring damp warm conditions these moulds may infest grains such as corn, wheat, barley, rice, sorghum, peanut, sunflower, indeed virtually all grains and seeds as well as poorly cured hay. Acute aflatoxin poisoning known as Mouldy Corn Poisoning in the USA is not usually seen in Australia due to dryer climatic conditions during harvesting and storage. The toxins principally affect the liver causing chronic damage resulting in ill thrift, poor appetite, anaemia, depression, reduced growth, and poor immunity. Diagnosis is confirmed by laboratory screening of feed samples.
