The Composition of Phytobezoars (Felt Balls) from Sheep in Western Australia.

Abstract

Bezoars (felt balls) from sheep on Jeedamya and Adelong stations north of Kalgoorlie, and on a farm near York, Western Australia, were examined microscopically and found to consist principally of a dense mass of sclerenchyme fibres. In size, colour and texture the bezoars closely resemble bezoars composed of plant epidermal hairs, described by South African workers. Acacra ramulosa is suggested as the likely source of bezoar fibres at Jeedamya and Adelong. The source of fibres from York was not determined. The identification of plant species from which bezoar fibres are derived may make possible the control of bezoariasis by grazing management.