paspalum staggers


paspalum staggers

clinical picture similar to that of rye grass staggers (q.v.) but this disorder results from ingestion of Claviceps paspali in paspalum and Dallas grass seeds, hay, or in grain; clinical picture includes tremors and ataxia. There is also another syndrome associated with C. purpurea ergot; may produce gangrene in extremities as a result of vasoconstriction. Alkaloids produced in the sclerotium include ergotamine, ergonovine, and hallucinogenic lysergic acid. Historically, humans have been affected by these outbreaks of ergotism (e.g., St. Anthony's fire).