Toxicity of Introduced Nitro-containing Astragalus to Sheep, Cattle, and Chicks

Abstract

Thirteen introduced Astragalus and one Swainsona species were analyzed throughout the growing season for presence and concentration of toxic nitro compounds. Sicklepod milkvetch (A. falcatus) contained high levels of nitro compounds and acutely poisoned sheep, cattle, and 1-week-old chicks. A. siliquosus contained small amounts of nitro compounds that were slightly toxic to 1-week-old chicks. Other species tested contained little or no nitro compounds and were nontoxic to 1-week-old chicks.