Paspalum ergot
Dallis grass is very susceptible to Claviceps paspali. During its development, the seed-heads can be attacked by the paspalum ergot (Claviceps paspali) whose sclerotia grow instead of the grains. These sclerotia contain an alkaloid that may be toxic or cause abortions in both humans and animals (Baki et al., 1992). Cattle are the most commonly affected species, but sheep and horses have also been affected (Cawdell-Smith et al., 2010). Symptoms of ergotism progress in the following order: excitement, distrust of people, aggressiveness, trembling, loss of muscular control, staggers, falls and, in some cases, death. Affected animals may recover in a few days if removed from infected areas in the early stages of excitement (FAO, 2010; McMullen et al., 1998). Heavy grazing or frequent and short cuttings during summer can suppress seed-heading and prevent ergot infection (Cook et al., 2005). Paspalum dilatatum pastures should be inspected for ergot infected seed heads before the introduction of animals (Cawdell-Smith et al., 2010).