Condensed Tannins Attributes: Potential Solution to Fescue Toxicosis?

Tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceous (Schreb.) Dumort. nom. cons. Lolium arundinaceum Darbysh.) toxicosis results from the consumption of alkaloids released by wild-type endophytes (Epichloe coenophiala) that live in symbiosis with plant. Alkaloid causes significant production and reproductive losses which cost U.S. beef industry approximately $2 billion every year. Incorporating species contain condensed tannins (CTs) into forage systems may be an effective strategy to reduce effects livestock. It has been hypothesized stable complexes formed between CTs toxic could help their absorption through gastrointestinal epithelia, thus reducing effects. However, it is not yet clear whether are grazing systems. A comprehensive literature search was carried out using Google Scholar identify studies relevant research question, cited articles were selected. This review covers value issues tall employed as useful forage, summarizes impact endophyte-infected can have on cattle, sets current management strategies implemented minimize toxicosis. The continues a brief summary tannin structure well-documented benefits CT-containing forages contribute productivity sustainability ruminant agriculture. Finally, potential sources, mechanisms, negative post-ingestion livestock provided.