Kodo Millet (Varagu) and its Poisonous Effects on Elephants

1. In November 2024, 10 elephants from a herd of 13 died in just 3 days in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.
2. Forest officials believe the deaths were caused by mycotoxins (poisons produced by fungi) found in Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum), a grain commonly grown in the area.
3. Kodo millet, also known as Varagu, is a staple food for many tribal communities but can become deadly under certain conditions.

What is Kodo Millet?

 

1. Kodo millet is a type of grain that is grown in many parts of India, as well as in other countries in Asia and Africa.
2. It is a hardy, drought-resistant crop that can survive in dry areas and is widely cultivated in Madhya Pradesh.

Why is Kodo Millet Important?

1. Nutritional Benefits: Kodo millet is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy food option.
2. Gluten-Free: It is suitable for people with gluten intolerance.
   1. Gluten is a group of proteins found in certain grains, primarily wheat, barley, rye, and their related species.
3. Easily Digestible: It is easy on the stomach and is often used in traditional dishes like porridge, upma, and roti.
4. Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants, which are good for health.

How Does Kodo Millet Become Toxic?

1. Kodo millet becomes poisonous mainly due to fungus (a type of mold) that grows on the grain under humid or wet conditions.
2. This fungus produces a harmful chemical called cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), which is the main cause of poisoning.

Fungal Contamination and Poison:

1. Cyclopiazonic Acid (CPA): This is the main poison found in contaminated Kodo millet. When the grain gets infected by fungus, it becomes dangerous.
2. Local Names: n some parts of India, this infected millet is called "Matawna Kodoo" or "Matona Kodo".

Even after the millet is harvested and processed, the poison remains because it cannot be removed by heating or washing.

History of Kodo Millet Poisoning

1. Kodo millet poisoning has been known for a long time.
2. The first case was reported in 1922 in Uttar Pradesh when some people were poisoned by the grain.
3. Over the years, there have been several cases of poisoning, mostly affecting animals, including elephants.

Key Incidents:

1. In 1983, the first elephant deaths linked to Kodo millet poisoning were reported.
2. In 1985, scientists confirmed that cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) was the poison responsible for these deaths.

How Does Kodo Millet Poisoning Work?

When elephants (or other animals) eat contaminated Kodo millet, the poison affects their nervous system, heart, and digestive system. The symptoms of poisoning can appear quickly.

Symptoms of Poisoning:

1. Vomiting
2. Unconsciousness
3. Shaking and tremors
4. Fast heartbeat
5. Weakness and loss of movement (elephants may have difficulty moving and become depressed)

The poison affects the liver and heart, and also causes problems in the stomach and intestines.

How Was Kodo Millet Poisoning Treated in the Past?

1. In the early 20th century, tamarind water or buttermilk was believed to help treat the poisoning.
2. A report from 1934 by R.C. Morris, a zoologist, suggested that these liquids, when given in large amounts, could help animals recover from the poison.
   1. Tamarind water and buttermilk were thought to help flush the toxins out of the body.
   2. Local knowledge: People in rural areas often tested the safety of Kodo millet by cooking small amounts and observing how livestock reacted.

However, in large-scale poisonings, like the one in Madhya Pradesh, these remedies might not be enough to save animals, especially when the toxin is spread over a large area.

Why Are Elephants Affected?

1. Elephants are particularly vulnerable to Kodo millet poisoning because they consume large amounts of food.
2. They often eat grains like millet, and if the grain is contaminated with CPA, it can quickly poison them.
3. Due to their size and the large quantities of food they eat, elephants are more likely to ingest enough of the contaminated grain to cause serious harm or death.

About Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve: Location and Significance Location: Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is situated in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, between the Vindhyan and Satpura mountain ranges. Establishment: It was initially declared a national park in 1968 and later became a Tiger Reserve in 1993. The reserve plays a key role in tiger conservation and is one of India's most important protected areas for wildlife. Geography and Landscape The landscape of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is marked by a mix of valleys, hills, and plains. The Bandhavgarh fort is a major landmark within the reserve, which is both historically significant and a popular tourist attraction. Bandhavgarh Fort: The fort is believed to have been given to Lakshmana, the brother of the Hindu god Lord Rama, to keep a watch on the island of Lanka. The name Bandhavgarh comes from the Sanskrit word "Bandhav", meaning brother, and "Garh", meaning fort—thus, Bandhavgarh translates to "Brother's Fort". Vegetation Bandhavgarh's vegetation is mainly tropical moist, deciduous forests. The area's plant life is diverse, with different types of forests and grasslands supporting a variety of species. Sal Forests: The reserve is home to Sal trees (Shorea robusta), which are dominant in the higher regions. Bamboo Groves: These are found in the lower slopes of the reserve and are an important resource for the local wildlife. Mixed Forests and Grasslands: Along with Sal forests, there are areas of mixed forests and grasslands that offer a variety of habitats for different species. Flora Some of the key plant species found in the reserve include: Saj (Terminalia tomentosa) Dhaora (Anogeissus latifolia) Tendu (Diospyros lotus) Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) Amla (Emblica officinalis) Palas (Butea monosperma) These plants are important not only for the local ecosystem but also for sustaining the herbivores and other wildlife in the park. Fauna Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is most famous for its Royal Bengal Tigers, and it has the highest density of tigers not just in India, but globally. The reserve plays a critical role in tiger conservation and is a part of India’s larger network of tiger reserves under Project Tiger. Key Wildlife Species Tigers: Bandhavgarh has the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers in the world. Leopard: Bandhavgarh is also home to a significant population of leopards. Wild Dog: Known for its hunting skills, the wild dog is another important predator in the reserve. Wolf: A smaller predator species, wolves are also found in the area. Jackal: The jackal is a scavenger and an important part of the food chain in the reserve. Herbivores and Other Species Chital (Spotted Deer): The chital is one of the most common herbivores in Bandhavgarh. Sambhar: A large deer species, sambhar are found in the reserve's forests. Barking Deer: These small deer are often seen in the reserve’s grasslands and forested areas. Nilgai: Also known as the blue bull, the nilgai is a large herbivore in the region. Chinkara: The chinkara, or Indian gazelle, is another herbivore found here. Wild Pig: The wild pig is an important part of the food chain, serving as prey for carnivores. Chowsingha: The chowsingha or four-horned antelope is also found in the reserve.

Conclusion

The deaths of the elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve are a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by toxic millet when it is contaminated by mycotoxins. While Kodo millet is a healthy and important food for many people, its potential to become poisonous under certain conditions is a major concern, especially for wildlife.