whats on my grass?

[Deepsouth]

This fungus looking stuff is growing in small patches in my pasture. It's on bahia and crab grass. Also saw it on some weeds. It's gray and powdery and rubs off on my finger. I know these aren't good pictures but its the best I could do.

 

[inyati13]

Fungus

 

[kucala5]

Don't know what that is or what funky fungus is on mine either. It's patchy, blackish and webbyish with the morning dew on it? I better get on the google!

 

[Putangitangi]

I see that here sometimes, too.

 

[Deepsouth]

I see that here sometimes, too.

Have you noticed if it shows up during wet periods? I've had a lot of rain.

 

[Caustic Burno]

I see that here sometimes, too.

Have you noticed if it shows up during wet periods? I've had a lot of rain.

I have lots of bahia and bottom land that stays wet a lot.
Deepsouth I have never seen that. You keep it over there please.
If you find out what it is I would like to know as it will most likely get here like fireants.

 

[Deepsouth]

I see that here sometimes, too.

Have you noticed if it shows up during wet periods? I've had a lot of rain.

I have lots of bahia and bottom land that stays wet a lot.
Deepsouth I have never seen that. You keep it over there please.
If you find out what it is I would like to know as it will most likely get here like fireants.

My biggest concern right now is if it can hurt the cows.

 

[skyhightree1]

DS are you going to have your extension agent come out or take a sample to them ? I have never seen it before but would be interested in knowing for sure what it is.

 

[ga.prime]

I've seen it. It's mold. It likes rainy weather.

 

[Deepsouth]

I've seen it. It's mold. It likes rainy weather.

It looks like bread mold. Will it hurt the cows? If it likes wet weather I assume a few days of sunshine will take care of it.

 

[ga.prime]

I really don't think it will hurt cows. Mine never get sick.

 

[Deepsouth]

I really don't think it will hurt cows. Mine never get sick.

Thanks ga! Now go over on the wildlife forum and show us some of your mounts.

 

[ga.prime]

Ha, I don't have any mounts! I have a nice collection of sheds I've collected and put on the mantle piece. I'll get a pic of it tomorrow and put on there.

 

[branguscowgirl]

Looks like a mold to me also. If the cows have plenty to eat, they will likely avoid those spots. I would have it tested to make sure though. Some molds and fungus's can cause abortion, staggers ect.. Don't take any chance's.

 

[Putangitangi]

I wouldn't have seen it if it was very wet, so no, not in really wet conditions underfoot. I'd say it happens when it's pretty humid though, thinking back to when and where I saw it.

 

[ga.prime]

That's right, Putangitangi. It grows when the soil stays wet on the surface, like in the days following a lot of rain.

 

[inyati13]

It does not appear to be any of the fungi that product toxins. Toxins are usually an alkaloid such as ergot or mycotoxins like in mushrooms. In the case of mycotoxins, they are some of the most powerful toxins in nature. This is more like the mold you see in hay. I would think, the amount they get would be rather low. I would personally, not worry about its effect on the cows but if it speards, it might decrease your forage yields.

The most common fungal problem for cows is endophyte in fescue. BTW: I like etymology. Endo=inside. Phyte=plant. That may be the one branguscowgirl is referencing as reducing fertility and decreasing body condition.

 

[Lucky_P]

It's a sooty or black mold. Common. No problem for cattle consuming it - if they even eat the infested patch.
I see it from time to time; very patchy distribution. I'd ignore it.

 

[M5farm]

my brain would not function last night. we call it smut and it is a fungus. I've never seen it hurt anything