92 



GROUND FEEDS. 



its relationship is not known. As the seed sprouts the 

 fungus keeps pace with the growth of the young plant, 

 and finally affects the grain again. Feeding tests which 

 would prove whether the fungus is responsible for the 

 poisoning have not been made. 



Fig. 19. Grains of Darnel Lolium temulentum. 



natural size. 



Five times 



Symptoms 



The symptoms are those of a deliriant nerve poison. 

 There is confusion of sight which was known in very 

 ear ^ times and is mentioned by classic 

 writers. Further symptoms are dilation of 

 pupils, giddiness, drowsiness, staggering and stupefac- 

 tion. Trembling is followed in some cases by convul- 

 sions. In others vomiting and purging may take 

 place. The respiration is laboured and the pulse slow. 

 Inflammation of stomach and intestine have been ob- 

 served. 



