How consumption of kodo millet led to the death of 10 elephants in MP

Sub: Geo

Sec: Eco Geo

Context:

Ten wild elephants died recently in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, potentially due to mycotoxins linked to kodo millet.

About Kodo Millet:

Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum), also known as Kodra and Varagu, is a drought-tolerant grain native to tropical and subtropical regions.
It thrives in poor soil and is commonly grown in arid and semi-arid regions of India, including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Tamil Nadu.
The crop is grown in India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and West Africa.
It is a staple food for many tribal communities and economically weaker sections due to its high yield potential and nutritional benefits.

Nutritional Benefits:

Kodo millet is rich in vitamins and minerals, gluten-free, easy to digest, and has antioxidant properties. It is also noted for its dietary fibre, which benefits digestive health and metabolic processes.

Kodo Poisoning:

Kodo millet becomes toxic primarily due to fungal infections occurring under specific environmental conditions, particularly due to rainfall during harvest, resulting in a fungal infection leading to poisoned kodo which is locally known as Matawna Kodoo or Matona Kodo in northern India.
The primary toxin involved is cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), which can lead to severe health issues in both animals and humans.
Symptoms of kodo poisoning in animals include vomiting, unconsciousness, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Poisoning in humans:

The first known documentation of kodo millet poisoning dates back to 1922, with instances of acute poisoning reported in humans and animals after consuming kodo-based products.
Research established the link between mycotoxins, particularly cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), and kodo millet poisoning in the mid-1980s.
Although there have been animal fatalities, no human deaths have been reported, as affected individuals typically recover with prompt medical attention.

Solutions to Kodo Toxicity:

Use of biocontrol agents to minimize fungal development and mycotoxin secretion.
Implementation of good agricultural practices, including proper post-harvest management to avoid moisture exposure and ensure safe storage.
Regular removal of infected grains to prevent the spread of mycotoxins.

Detection of Mycotoxins:

Detecting mycotoxins in kodo millet can be challenging due to their microscopic nature.
Traditional methods include chromatographic techniques, which are time-consuming.
However, rapid detection methods such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and biosensors are gaining popularity for on-site analysis.