Ergot is a disease of plants, particularly small grains such as rye and barley and other grasses, which is mainly caused by species of Claviceps, in particular C. purpurea, C. paspalli, and C. fusiformis. These fungi forey the female sex organs of the host plant and replace the ovary with a mass of fungal tissue known as a sclerotium. The sclerotia, also termed ergots, are about the same size and density as the grain kernels and tend to go with the grain when harvested. The sclerotia comprise alkaloids that are produced by the fungus. The alkaloids ergotamine, ergosine, and others are derivatives of lysergic acid, and cause disease in animals and humans. The disease is manifested by the sensation of cold hands and feet followed by an intense burning sensation.

1. Ergot Disorder in
Plants
BY Dr. S.SREEREMYA
FACULTY OF BIOLOGY