ANSC Feeds Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Mycotoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by certain species of fungi that can contaminate feed and pose significant health risks to livestock. When animals consume feed contaminated with mycotoxins, they can experience various adverse effects.

Toxicity is a primary concern, as mycotoxins can cause a range of acute and chronic health problems, depending on the type and concentration of the toxin. Animals may exhibit symptoms such as reduced feed intake, which can lead to poor growth and overall health decline. This decreased consumption occurs because mycotoxins can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, affecting the animal's appetite and digestion.

In addition to toxicity and reduced feed intake, mycotoxins are known to influence reproductive health. Animals may experience reproductive issues, such as decreased fertility and increased birthing complications, which can have significant economic implications for livestock producers.

The choice that identifies the potential impacts of mycotoxins on animal health accurately encompasses toxicity, reduced feed intake, poor growth, and reproductive issues, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the problem and portending serious consequences for animal productivity and welfare.