Selenium Toxicity to Animals and Humans in Northwestern India-A Case Study

摘要

@@In 1984-1985,when wheat plants showing extraordinarily white colour on leaves were spotted during a routine visit to the farmers' fields at village Simbly in northwestern India. Analysis of plant samples confirmed the presence of fairly high concentration of selenium (Se).Interaction with farmers revealed that they have been experiencing significant cattle loss since mid sixties and it could be due to consumption of Se-rich vegetation by the animals.Even human beings were experiencing frequent head and stomach aches,excessive loss of hair and deformation of nails.It was then the farmers realized that they were ignorantly suspecting their neighbours for doing some mischief.