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.

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.