Document Type

Other

Publication Date

1-1-2006

Keywords

livestock management, prussic acid poisoning, causes, prevention

Extension Number

ExEx 4016

Department

Dairy Science

Description

What Is Prussic Acid? Sudangrass, sorghum, and sorghum-sudangrass hybrids are among a group of plants that produce cyanide, which can poison livestock under certain conditions. Also included in this group of plants are johnsongrass, chokecherry, and black cherry. These plants produce cyanogenic glycosides during their growing stage. Glycosides are compounds containing a carbohydrate (sugar) and a noncarbohydrate residue in the same molecule. They decompose (breakdown) into glucose sugar and noncarbohydrate residue by hydrolysis (addition of water) as a result of enzymatic action. In cyanogenic plants this decomposition frees the cyanide from its chemical bond, and it becomes toxic hydrocyanic acid, frequently called prussic acid, and abbreviated HCN. The intact, still-bonded cyanide and glucose are not poisonous. But, when certain enzymes are present that break the bond and free the cyanide, prussic acid (a highly toxic poison) is formed. The enzymes involved in this chemical decomposition of the cyanide and glycosides usually are present in the same plant—but may be available from other sources. Animal digestive juices are a probable source.

Comments

Updated January 2006.

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