Photosensitivity diseases in New Zealand

Abstract

Mycelium from a fungus subsequently identified as Sporidesmium bakeri Syd., a species not previously detected in New Zealand, was observed on pasture. Facial eczema occurred in lambs grazing this pasture and in guinea pigs fed dried grass mown from the area. A spore sample collected from the same area comprised predominantly S. bakeri and gave a positive beaker test. Cultures of this fungus when fed to guinea pigs and lambs produced characteristic facial-eczema liver lesions as well as icterus and photosensitivity in the latter species. The toxin was detected in cultures which varied in incubation time and media. Mycelium as well as conidia were toxic.