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Bandhavgarh Jumbo Deaths due to Kodo millets

About Bandhavgarh Jumbo Deaths

  • The elephants died from toxicity caused by eating large amounts of kodo millet that was infected with a fungus.
  • The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (Bareilly, UP) analysed samples from the elephants and found cyclopiazonic acid in their systems.

About Kodo Millet

  • Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) is a drought-resistant crop, predominantly grown in dry and semi-arid regions in India and Africa.
  • It is a rich source of fibre, protein and essential minerals.
  • However, under certain environmental conditions (like high humidity or during spring and summer), it becomes more susceptible to fungal contamination which can produce Cyclopiazonic Acid (CPA).
    • Cyclopiazonic Acid is a mycotoxin produced by certain strains of fungi, particularly Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium species.
Facts
  • India is the world’s largest producer of millet, accounting for 20% of global production and 80% of Asia’s production.
  • Major millet producing states in India: Rajasthan, UP, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

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