Our understanding of FE is growing all the time. The better we understand this disease the better equipped we are to handle it.
Our key learnings
Pseudopithomyces toxicarius a significant break through
Digging into the Science through a study into the fungus that is known to cause Facial Eczema our Researchers discovered a new species of Fungus 'Pseudopithomyces toxicarius’ and that it is the primary producer of Sporidesmin (the toxin that causes FE). They did this by using DNA Sequencing data which show that clearly there were two species on the pasture.
Now we are working on tools and solutions for easier identification of the toxic species who look identical under the microscope but have very different DNA.
Find out more:
- Read: Major step in understanding Facial eczema in livestock.
- Read: Scientists discover 'amazing' new fungus species connected to livestock facial eczema.
- Watch: Facial eczema Sheep Poo Study: Q&A session webinar.
Our Facial eczema Community
Farmers have now contributed more than 7,300 hours to tackling FE through the Eliminating Facial Eczema Impacts programme, including 3,300 hours in the past year. This commitment is shaping science-based solutions that reflect real farm conditions.
Sheep Poo Study – Season two complete
Thanks to nearly 280 farms nationwide, we now know:
- FE is a nationwide challenge, not just a North Island issue, with toxic spores being found as far south as Otago.
- Local conditions matter:
- higher elevation = fewer spores
- short pasture = more spores
- neighbouring farms with high spores = higher risk for your farm.
This information goes a long way in helping us understand FE better and come up with practical on-farm solutions.
Season three is underway, with Awanui carrying out spore counts and B+LNZ analysing results. This strengthens the national spore risk map and risk prediction tool, giving farmers sharper tools to track seasonal threats.
See our webinar: Facial eczema Sheep Poo Study: Q&A session.
Read quarterly updates on our Programme updates page .