Locoweed

Locoweed is a common name in North America for any plant that produces swainsonine, a phytotoxin harmful to livestock. Worldwide, swainsonine is produced by a small number of plant species, most are in three genera of the flowering plant family Fabaceae: Oxytropis, Astragalus (including Astragalus mollissimus, commonly known as woolly locoweed), and Swainsona.

Description

Locoweeds are perennial herbs that grow in a variety of habitats. They are typically found in arid regions and are most common in the western United States and western Canada. The plants are characterized by their pea-like flowers and pods. The leaves are usually pinnately compound, and the plants have a deep root system.

Toxicity

Locoweeds are toxic to livestock due to the presence of the alkaloid swainsonine. This toxin inhibits the enzyme alpha-mannosidase, which is necessary for the metabolism of certain sugars in animals. The result is a buildup of these sugars in cells, leading to a variety of symptoms including weight loss, behavioral changes, and reproductive problems. In severe cases, it can lead to death.

Control

Control of locoweed is difficult due to its deep root system and the fact that it often grows in areas where other forage is scarce. However, some methods that have been used include mechanical removal, use of herbicides, and grazing management to reduce the exposure of livestock to the plants.

See also

• List of poisonous plants
• Swainsonine
• Astragalus
• Oxytropis

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