maggots and limberneck
Kathy Brunetti (brunetti@empm.cdpr.ca.gov)
Wed, 11 Aug 1999 11:41:56 -0700
Limberneck is another name for avian botulism. One source of
botulism toxin is maggots. From Texas A&M:
Botulism is not a bacterial infection, but a condition produced by
ingestion of a toxin produced by the bacterium Cl. botulinum. The
organism is common in nature and is widely dispersed in soils.
Ingestion of the organism is not harmful. It becomes dangerous only
when conditions are favorable for the growth and multiplication of
the bacteria and its subsequent toxin production. The organism grows
best under high humidity and relatively high temperature and in an
environment containing decaying organic material. Acid conditions are
detrimental. Stagnant pools or damp areas containing decaying matter
with an alkaline reaction are a danger area. Botulism may result from
consumption of any decaying animal or vegetable. Decaying carcasses
are a frequent source of toxin, and fly maggots feeding on such
tissue may contain enough toxin to cause the disease when ingested.
The toxin is water soluble; consequently, water sources may become
contaminated.
***************
Kathy Brunetti
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