Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Cause of Silo Filler’s Disease
"Silo filler disease" is due to inhalation of oxides of:
- Nitrogen — Correct Answer
- Sulphur
- Carbon
- Phosphorus
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Nitrogen
Silo Filler's Disease is a severe chemical pneumonitis caused by inhaling toxic oxides of nitrogen — primarily nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) — which are produced in large quantities during the first 24–72 hours of fresh silage fermentation as plant nitrates break down anaerobically.
Silage-Related Hazards — Summary
| Hazard | Cause | Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Silo Filler's Disease | NO₂ gas from nitrate breakdown | Farm workers (humans) |
| Nitrate poisoning | High nitrate forages (Oat hay) | Cattle; treatment: 1% Methylene Blue |
| Cyanide poisoning | Dhurrin (Jowar), Linamarin (Linseed/Cassava), Amygdalin (Bitter almond) | Cattle; treatment: NaNO₂ + Na-thiosulphate |
Silage Quality Classification
| Grade | pH | NH₃-N in total N | Butyric acid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very good | 3.5–4.2 | <10% | Nil |
| Good | 4.2–4.5 | 10–15% | Trace |
| Fair | ≥4.8 | ≥20% | Some |
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
