Corn silage samples from Southeastern USA for the 2019 harvest contained an several different mycotoxin types. Fumonisins were a frequently detected group, found in 68% of samples. The average concentration in positive samples was 2349 ppb, a lower risk level for ruminants. However, some samples contained up to 14188 ppb which is approaching more of a caution or moderate risk level that could begin to alter gut health. 

The type A trichothecenes family (T2/HT2-toxin group) were detected in only 18% of samples, but when detected they were found at higher concentrations. There was an average level of 475 ppb in positive samples and a maximum of 912 ppb. This mycotoxin group could impact intestinal, organ, reproductive and immune systems of the cow. 

Interestingly, total aflatoxins were detected in 25% of samples although only 3.6% of samples contained aflatoxin B1. The average of aflatoxins in positive samples was 121 ppb and the maximum reached 423 ppb. 

Finally, Penicillium and Aspergillus mycotoxins were detected in a lower portion of samples, but when detected were at higher levels. Molds generating these mycotoxins could continue to grow and produce mycotoxins during storage and thus these should be monitored.