Locoweed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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locoweed
[ˈloʊkoʊˌwiːd ]
Definition
plant species
Locoweed refers to various species of plants from the genera Astragalus and Oxytropis that contain toxic alkaloids. These plants are primarily found in the western United States and can lead to locoism in livestock when consumed. Locoism is characterized by neurological disorders and behavioral changes in animals.
Synonyms
Astragalus, Oxytropis, locoism plant.
Examples of usage
- Cattle grazing locoweed may exhibit signs of locoism.
- Farmers need to identify locoweed to protect their livestock.
- Locoweed is a common concern in regions with poor forage quality.
Translations
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Origin of 'locoweed'
The term 'locoweed' originates from the late 19th century in the western United States, derived from 'loco', which is a Spanish word meaning 'crazy', and 'weed', indicating a wild plant. This nomenclature reflects the effects of the plant, particularly in livestock that consume it and exhibit erratic behavior. The toxic properties were not well understood initially, leading to its association with madness in animals. The first documented cases of locoweed's effects on livestock were reported in the early 1900s, establishing its significance in agricultural practices. Ongoing research has helped clarify the specific species responsible for this toxicity and the alkaloids involved, further reinforcing the cultural and agricultural importance of recognizing locoweed in North American ecosystems.