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. Five times 
natural size. 
The symptoms are those of a deliriant nerve poison. 
There is confusion of sight which was known in very 
early 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. 
Symptoms 
