Breakthrough in facial eczema research
A major step forward in understanding facial eczema (FE) in livestock could help reduce the devastating impact this disease has on New Zealand farmers, animals, and rural communities. Words Sandra Taylor.
Historically, it was thought that only one fungal species, Pithomyces chartarum (renamed Pseudopithomyces chartarum in 2015) was present when FE spores were counted.
Dr Suzanne Keeling, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Head of Science and Research says using new techniques, researchers from AgResearch and Manaaki Whenua have found there is more than one type of fungus involved, and not all produce the toxin.
She says the toxin-producing fungus has been named Pseudopithomyces toxicarius. This breakthrough means that more targeted diagnostic tests could be developed to detect the
fungi-producing toxin.
“However, it is still important to monitor spore counts as both toxic- and non-toxic-producing fungi can be present.”
Keeling says while pasture and faecal spore counting remain valuable tools for understanding FE risk, this discovery adds a layer of precision that will help farmers make more informed decisions.
“This finding is seen as a turning point, providing a clearer understanding of where the fungus has spread and how it can be better managed.”
She says FE, caused by the toxin sporidesmin, costs New Zealand’s economy around $332 million annually. Tackling this issue has been an ongoing challenge for over 100 years. Marlborough farmer Warwick Lissaman, a member of B+LNZ’s Farmer Research Advisory Group and one of the farmers who collected samples for testing, was eager to be involved in the research. Lissaman feels strongly that everyone from researchers to farmers have a role to play in tackling this devastating disease.
“ It’s a collective effort that might have taken years longer without the will and collaboration we’re seeing now.” – Warwick Lissaman, Marlborough
“Taking ownership of issues comes from understanding why, what, how, and when. Research like this gives armers a real opportunity to be involved in making a difference by boosting our understanding and awareness. It’s a collective effort that might have taken years longer without the will and collaboration we’re seeing now,” he says.
He believes that real change comes from taking a farm systems approach; needs are clearly identified, and practical solutions are driven by collective action. “With the passage of time, we should be improving our management and interventions.
Having the knowledge and tools allows us to make better decisions on farm,” he says.
“Just because spores are present doesn’t mean they’re toxic – knowing where the dangerous ones are is critical for figuring out what options we have.”
Keeling says the study that led to identifying the toxic fungus began before the Eliminating Facial Eczema Impacts (EFEI) programme, and its findings have been integral to shaping future work.
By determining that not all spores are the same species of fungus, and not all produce the toxin, a more targeted approach can be developed to inform management decisions.
She says this breakthrough demonstrates how combining farmer-led experience with scientific expertise can deliver practical solutions that truly make a difference.
