Bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) is a conspicuous, deciduous, perennial fern that is commonly found worldwide. In fact, it has been said to be the fifth most distributed common weed species of the world. Bracken fern reproduces by spores and forms branched underground stems, sometimes forming colonies. Bracken fern colonies are usually found on hillsides at the edge of woodlands and thickets in partial shade. Up to 30 million spores may be produced by a single frond, and spore production tends to be greater in open habitats. Spores may remain viable for up to 10 years in soil. Bracken fern is also for the most part, fire-resistant, as the rhizomes send up new shoots after the old ones are burnt.
Toxic components
Bracken fern contains several different poisonous and carcinogenic compounds, including thiaminase, cyanogen glycosides, and ptaquiloside. However, the principal toxin is thiaminase. Thiaminase is an enzyme responsible breaking down thiamin, an essential B vitamin that's needed for proper functioning of the central nervous system. If ruminants ingest large quantities of thiaminase, it inhibits absorption of these essential B vitamins, resulting in vitamin B1 deficiency. Depending on the severity of the deficiency, without prompt treatment, it can be lethal.
- Weight Loss
- Progressive Incoordination
- Depression
- Slow Heart Rate
- Base-wide Stance
- Muscle Tremors
- Colic
- Constipation
- Severe Anemia
- Elevated Temperature
- Rapid Heart Rate
Due to the plant's rhizomatous rooting system and its ability to quickly produce mass amounts of spores, controlling bracken fern can be difficult.
CULTURAL CONTROL: Reseeding with preferable forage grasses or herbaceous species can help reduce infestations.
MECHANICAL CONTROL: Bracken fern i
