UF scientists discover genetic markers tied to loss of the ability to sweat in horses

Sweating is a critical tool to keep horses comfortable and healthy, but chronic idiopathic anhidrosis, a dangerous equine condition can impede their natural cooling mechanism and cause performance and health issues. For the first time, UF/IFAS researchers have identified genomic markers that cause the potentially fatal condition.

The genomic mapping study gave researchers a discovery-based approach to attacking this disease, pushing aside prior assumptions about the disease’s causes. A team of UF scientists from the Genetics Institute and the College of Veterinary Medicine used genetic markers like signposts, looking for the common genomic markers found in horses that had chronic idiopathic anhidrosis disease. These genetic signposts pointed to a defective potassium transporter that likely hinders sweat function.

“Now that we know which biological pathways cause the condition, we hope to design specific strategies to intervene,” said Samantha Brooks, UF/IFAS associate professor of equine physiology. “We found that this disease has similarities to cystic fibrosis which has many drug treatments available and in development. Knowing this, we can start to consider ways to treat these horses that suffer from this condition, helping them sweat more normally over longer periods of time.”

Genetic mutations leading to cystic fibrosis also impact ion channels and gave researchers some clues as to how this particular defective potassium transporter might work. Additional research is needed to fully understand, but researchers found a change in the protein that alters when this ion transporter turns on and off. The stress of the sweat gland attempting to function with this faulty transporter likely destroys the ability to sweat over time.

“Using histology, the study of the structure of the tissues, previous work found that the sweat glands become damaged after horses live with chronic idiopathic anhidrosis over long periods of time,” Brooks said. “That is why we have not been successful in reversing the disease and restoring sweat function. Trying to sweat without a functional ion transporter could be the cause of the damage to the cells in the sweat gland. We may not be able to reverse that.”

Having chronic idiopathic anhidrosis is like driving a car on a flat tire, Brooks explained. Over time, a horse living with this disease experiences impacts to their overall health beyond the inability to sweat. Living with the condition becomes a quality-of-life concern and unlike other kinds of anhidrosis, chronic idiopathic anhidrosis cannot be solved quickly or cured.

“The saddest part about this disease is that we do not have any specific way to treat the condition right now,” Brooks said. “We can see what is happening and try to address the symptoms but because we do not know exactly what is causing it, we cannot attack the disease. So far, no supplements or medications have been tested and proven to work in a scientific study.”

Most chronic idiopathic anhidrosis horses sweat normally when they are young, but their cells accumulate damage over time, especially in extreme environments like Florida. Older horses experience more severe clinical signs such as critical hyperthermia as they lose more sweat gland function over time.

“We also do not understand the severity aspect,” said Laura Patterson Rosa, animal science graduate student and lead author of the study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. “We don’t understand why some horses have it worse than others. Even if it is chronic, the severity differs.”

In their study, scientists were surprised to find the genetic marker that causes chronic idiopathic anhidrosis is a common marker, particularly in sport-type horses like Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds.

“I think there are a lot of horses out there struggling to live with the early stages of this disease, but owners and caretakers are just not aware of it,” Brooks said. “Long periods of hot humid weather here in the southeastern U.S aggravate the condition, increasing the chances an owner will notice the problem, but it can be just as much of an issue for horses in more northern locations. You may not think of places up north as having a hot summer that would make it hard for these horses to live, but if a horse has chronic idiopathic anhidrosis it might just take a single day in the 90s to trigger an episode of overheating. That can be very startling to their caretakers, and miserable for the horses. Especially if they live in a climate where those hot days are rare.”

The first signs of an insufficient sweat response and poor cooling are often a decrease in performance of the horse. They may get more tired during exercise, and although they still have some ability to sweat, it is often difficult for caretakers to accurately assess the volume of sweat they are producing. Over time as their ability to sweat decreases, their coats become dry and during overheating episodes it becomes more noticeable. Another side effect includes skin flakiness, rashes and an overall poor hair coat since the sweat glands are no longer distributing healthy oils to the skin.

“If your horse is one of the 2% affected by this disease, this diagnosis can be an absolute disaster,” Brooks said. “Still, I think a lot of these horses are probably out there doing the best they can. They may have slightly decreased performance at first or become a bit lazy in the summer. They are often confused for horses that have allergies, asthma, or a respiratory infection because they pant to cool themselves. At first glance, they look as if they are struggling to breath, but really, they are struggling to cool themselves.”

Horse owners who suspect their horse has chronic idiopathic anhidrosis should regularly take the animal’s temperature and consult their veterinarian. It may appear that the horse has a fever, but in reality, their basal body temperature is elevated during hot times of day because they cannot regulate it on their own through sweating. Taking their temperature regularly can be a critical component for managing this disease and can help horse owners monitor how well efforts to help keep their horse cool are working and is an important weapon to attack this disease.

“This is a very dangerous disease,” Brooks said. “We often see sweating as a nuisance, but we forget that hyperthermia can be a very life-threatening emergency. This is the time of year, when temperatures start to rise, it is important to revisit this idea and increase awareness among horse owners and caretakers about the condition.”

Horses that have not previously struggled to stay cool and perform may still have issues in the future. As the disease progresses each year and the climate continues to warm, chronic idiopathic anhidrosis is a condition that could be diagnosed more often and become worse for those horses already affected with the disease.

Looking ahead, the research team would like to launch a new project, using samples from horses with and without the disease to measure how much of this disease is due to changes in the function of this particular potassium transfer problem compared to other factors, like the environment. Developing therapies to treat or cure chronic idiopathic anhidrosis and tests to detect a propensity for the condition are future goals as well.

“In our first study we went out and found horses with chronic idiopathic anhidrosis so we would love to measure how much of this disease is due to the potassium transporter and how many horses carry this variant,” Brooks said. “The next step, in collaboration with our colleagues at the UF college of veterinary medicine and pharmacy, will be to see if we can find a compound developed for humans that alters potassium transfer, potentially offsetting the genetic factors contributing to chronic idiopathic anhidrosis in the horse, and administrable in a way that is feasible and economical in such a large animal.”

“Through directed genomic selection, we can eliminate chronic idiopathic anhidrosis from the horse population,” Rosa s

aid. “But that will take time and further research.”

0

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Posted: June 21, 2021


Category: Farm Management, Livestock, Recreation, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Research
Tags: Anhidrosis, Animal Sciences, Animal Sciences Department, College Of Veterinary Medicine, Equine, Equine Business, Genomics, Heat, Horses, Summer


Comments:

Kirsten Romaguera

February 24, 2022

Hi Cheryl, that's exciting! I'm certain the UF/IFAS Extension Collier County office would be happy to hear from you. You can find contact info at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/collier.

Cheryl Sims
February 21, 2022

I’m going to be staying in Collier County the month of March and am a master gardener volunteer from Franklin county in Ohio. I would like to know more about projects in your area. I have also spent some time in Vero Beach recently and installed a native planting at a residential location.

Kirsten Romaguera

January 21, 2022

Thank you for your interest in assisting! Columbia County did participate this year and I'm sure would love to include your schools in the 2022 challenge. It will start all over again Oct. 1! https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/columbia/

Pamela Hartopp
January 21, 2022

I would love to help with this, I noticed that Columbia County was not listed. What do I have to do to help with this. The school I work at collected over 15,000 items for our local food bank this past October.

David Futch
December 15, 2021

What a great story. All Gators are proud of Hope Hersh and wish her success. Go Gators and Go Team Space Bread!

Ben E
December 9, 2021

Looks like it would be pretty tasty down here too.

BILLY L GIBSON
December 7, 2021

Thanks Ken. You were a major influence and on how I run my eco tourism company. Keep up the good work.

Mary Rozelle
December 7, 2021

Thank you Ken for all of your hard work and dedication. I was blessed to participate in your classes. Since then you have been a valuable resource when I’ve needed help or information.

D Klassen
December 3, 2021

Absolutely awesome. A project that makes sense. I want to see sweet rolls...

Robin Harris
November 20, 2021

Fascinating guy to talk to. He is knowledgeable and entertaining which makes learning from him interesting and fun!

Kirsten Romaguera

November 11, 2021

Hi Kristopher, thanks for the question! You can find the contact information and hours for the Duval County office at http://duval.ifas.ufl.edu/.

Kristopher Smith
November 11, 2021

Two neighborhood based organizations with community gardens in New Town and North Riverside are looking for assistance with design and horticulture. Can you advise how we can make an appointment with Jax staff to get the ball rolling? Thanks in advance.

Darryl Palmer
October 20, 2021

Very informative and the archival photos are great! NFREC has a wealth of historical resources. Thank you!

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Lourdes Mederos

October 4, 2021

Thank you. Much appreciated. Dr. Chouvenc is available for interviews.

tree service fort collins co
October 4, 2021

This ia extraordiarily intriguing! In terms of evolution, a fascinating phenomenon although its sigificance yet to be elucidated. A fine piece!

Tim Gray
July 10, 2021

I am a resident of Texas, a lifelong wannabe farmer, this software is one of the most useful tools imaginable. The people of the Great State of Florida should be proud of the work presented here!!!!!!!

mamun
June 25, 2021

very helpful article . thanks for sharing

Elinor Tucker
June 24, 2021

My ottb Halo who is now 16 years old has been suffering for 11 years. I have tried every product on the market. Plus acupuncture and now I have him in a stall with an AC during the day and turned out at night. He's managing well but I'm not able to ride him much during the hotter months. I live near Tampa Bay. I would love to move him us north and I have trying to find him a home off and on for years with no luck. I'd love to get him into a study if possible.

Terra Evans
June 24, 2021

I have a horse that is 18 years old that suffers from this condition horribly. Every summer I am afraid he won't make it through the Arkansas summers. If you would like to use him for any research and could travel to Arkansas for it, you are more than welcome. We do everything we can to help keep him comfortable and with us.

Denise Talbot
June 23, 2021

My gelding, Dashing Big Red, developed Anhidrosis when he was 8 years. old. He was a registered QH but the bloodlines were 50% Thoroughbred. He raced until he was approximately 5.5 years old. He died at 18 years. I tried dark beer, One AC, Signal. None worked. An old race remedy helped more than any - sugar, lite salt and salt. I free leased him out so that he would be doing arena work instead of trail riding. I got him back a number of years later. He would sweat some on his neck near his mane, under his legs and flanks. His sire was Dashing Val, by Dash for Cash. His dam was Ma Hemp, by Hemp Myers out of Comin Honi.

Lisa Travis
June 23, 2021

I have my Eventer that is anhidrosis. I have had him for 5 years and we successfully compete Beginner Novice and Novice. I have an ice regime that I do after each phase that helps him. Also the best thing I do for him is keep him competition fit. I do ride at all times of the day as I may have to compete in it at some point. I have tried EVERYTHING on the market and the only thing that works for a 2 week period is acupuncture. Although it is crazy expensive. So I will be doing it myself for him. Im not sure why the same drug that is used for humans couldn't be tried on horses as we use many of the same drugs as a human. If there is ever a study to do with those drugs in mind I would like to try them for my guy. Thank you for trying to find out how to help these horses. Lisa

Marti
June 23, 2021

Are y’all working on a future test to see if a breeding horse carries the genetic marker for anhydrosis?

Laurie F
June 23, 2021

We need to have a test that can be done as part of a pre-purchase exam. Having gone through this with my Morgan mare and making the difficult decisions to manage her care and untimely getting her out and of the state of Fl...it would have been so helpful to know prior to purchasing her.

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Samantha Murray

May 17, 2021

Thank you for your comment and question. According to Dr. Czyz, his lab has not done any work with yeast, and yeast is a component of SCOBY.

CABEDA, Marcelo
May 17, 2021

Great news Samantha Murray! My spirit believes in it. :) Congrats to Dr. Czyz and his team! Would you mind tell us ... Did they ever try some scientific essay with kombucha SCOBY? Thank's in advance!

Orlando Hidalgo
April 25, 2021

I have experienced this amazing phenomenon while birding one day. I came across other birders who where using a a recording device playing the sound of an Eastern Screech owl being mobbed by a group of Tufted Titmouse and Black-capped Chickadees. I was amazed at how many different species of birds came in from different areas.

chrissie abrahams
April 22, 2021

Do they sell organic local fruits and vegetables at wickham park farmers market

Gayle
April 16, 2021

Baby I just read this with tears running down my cheeks to Daddy he said why didn’t you say anything about him I had to laugh! Thank you I love you so much

DeArta
February 27, 2021

Love you Mommy!

Connie
February 27, 2021

Awesome information about you as well as your family roots.

Kimberly Brown
February 27, 2021

Sandra has an amazing capacity for compassion and mercy, within her career and her personal life. Always willing to lend a hand and help someone in need. She is a strong African American woman who believes in unity and peace. I admire her strength and commitment.

Della Wheeler
February 25, 2021

I am thoroughly proud of this young African American man I have known him the majority of his life Highly recommend him and esteem his work in society toward the betterment of human life. Della Wheeler

Tonya
February 18, 2021

Jesus in your heart, excellence in your bloodline, knowledge in your head, and Black Girl Magic...well that's EVERYTHING!!! Thank you for representing well and blazing a positive trail for others to follow!!

Angie
February 18, 2021

Correction to previous post. So very proud of you!

Angie
February 17, 2021

Correction to previous post. So very proud of you.!

Torie Dorval
February 16, 2021

Loved the article!

Angie
February 16, 2021

Awesome Awesome. So very pride of you, the work you’re doing and the beautiful young woman you’ve become. Congratulations.

Shirley Baker
February 15, 2021

I am so proud of your and your continuous stand in faith for the youth that have cross your path. Thank you for your support and spirit of excellence and knowledge in all you have done. Baker

I. D. Larkins
February 14, 2021

You are a blessing and have been for many youth and adults. Very proud of you and expecting to hear and read much more of your experiences and compliments

Jim Singleton
February 14, 2021

I had the pleasure of spending a week or two with Dr. Lloyd studying Fausis reticulata at my home in the western highland rim of Tennessee some years ago. I would like to think we became friends. I certainly gained a great respect for the man, his passion and his intellect. We spoke on the phone and through email from time to time, but I never had the privilege and the gift of his presence again. I very much would like to purchase a copy of his book, 'A Naturalist's Long Walk...' I think it may again be like being in the woods in the dark with my friend and mentor. Please let me hear from you with whatever you can offer. Sincerely, Jim Singleton

Dr. Courtney Edwards
February 13, 2021

Awesomeness, Dr. BT❣️

Gwen Lang Jones
February 13, 2021

Dr. Tennille, This is incredibly beautiful! Girl we can see that you truly worked hard for it, and are representing in a BIG way. You have established such a great legacy that definitely makes our entire family so proud. You are our trailblazer, so Keep up the awesome job that you're doing . Aunt Gwen

William Herron
February 12, 2021

Great job!

William Herron
February 12, 2021

You continue to be a role model and a light in a very dark world. You continue to be a trailblazer and focal point of the tip of a modern day spear that pierces the veils of female inequalities in the work force. If you persist in your endeavors, you will always be rewarded with the blessings of God! Thank you for your service and support.

safia safia
January 13, 2021

thanks for this

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Samantha Murray

November 9, 2020

Hi Lois, our experts say the only really way to protect monarch caterpillars from predators would be to raise them indoors. Thanks again for your question.

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Samantha Murray

November 6, 2020

Hi Theresa, thank you for your question. You can find recommendations for pollinator friendly plants for Florida in these two UF/IFAS Extension publications: Butterfly Gardening in Florida A Guide to Planting Wildflower Enhancements in Florida

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Samantha Murray

November 6, 2020

Hi Lynette, we suggest contacting the Vermont Extension Master Gardener program for recommendations on pollinator friendly plants for your area. Here's the link to their help page: https://www.uvm.edu/extension/mastergardener/helpline

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Samantha Murray

November 6, 2020

Hi Lois, thanks for your question. We're asking our experts about it and will get back to you.

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Samantha Murray

November 6, 2020

Hi Tammie, thanks for your question. We recommend contacting Laura Vasquez (lavasquez@ufl.edu) at the UF/IFAS Extension Miami-Dade County office for recommendations. Or, call the office at (305) 248-3311.

Tammie Lee
November 6, 2020

Hi. I live in S. FL (Miami-Dade) and we are having problems finding native milkweed to feed our Monarch caterpillars. Is there any suggestions on where we can find nurseries that have them? Thank you.

Don Bower
October 31, 2020

Nayda's influence and impact has been national and beyond. I had the benefit of working with her on various USDA/NIFA CYFAR projects in Georgia, one of many state CYFAR projects that Nayda coordinated and strengthened. Nayda is still remembered fondly as a faculty member at the University of Georgia, more than 30 years ago. I am fortunate to consider her a mentor and friend.

Kenneth Kopczynski
October 29, 2020

My mother-in-law is Effie Stone Rolfs' grand-daughter, Effie Hargrave Kirby. She is 91 and lives in La Crosse.

Lois
October 28, 2020

How does one control lizards from eating the catapillars? I have counted 40 plus catapillars on a bush in the evening, and the next Morning there are none. This is happening all over my acre garden.

Elaine Pivinski
October 22, 2020

I am so moved by this organization as a Women in Agriculture. I pioneered growing Wine Grapes in 1976 and I was the first sole proprietor, female, to get a farm loan 1986. I hold high standards for Women in Agriculture and my mentor is Dee Ann Connor. I was unaware of her dedication until now.

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Samantha Murray

October 22, 2020

Hi Don, thanks for your questions. Here's some information from Jaret Daniels: "The general recommendation for tropical milkweed in Florida is to cut it to the ground in late Oct/early Nov to help prevent winter breeding and disruption of the migration. This stands for folks living north of Lake Okeechobee. South Florida is more complicated and already has a non-migratory population and winter breeding. Regarding other plants for pollinators and monarchs, the list is extensive. Here are a few resources: Butterfly Gardening in Florida and A Guide to Planting Wildflower Enhancements in Florida."

Don Munroe
October 22, 2020

what other plants can be used locally for monarchs and other pollinators? Do I need to worry about local monarchs migrating to Mexico and cut back my milkweed planes some time in the fall or winter? Is there a good reference (IFAS publication or similar) for raising monarchs and other butterflies?

safia safia
October 21, 2020

great article; thank you for sharing

Lynette Courtney
October 19, 2020

It would be very helpful & list the various flowering plants used in this study. Being from Vermont, close to the Canadian border, are there any similar lists for areas much farther north than Florida?

Theresa
October 17, 2020

I thought you would give suggestions on which wild flowers to grow for migratory

Kirsten Romaguera

October 16, 2020

Sure is! The UF/IFAS Extension Okeechobee County office is located at 458 US Hwy 98 North in Okeechobee (34972). If you need other information, here is the office's website: http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/okeechobee/. Thank you for your interest!

Donna
October 2, 2020

A wonderful charitable way to feed the hungry- maybe save a life today! My daughter lives in FL . I know she will donate. She loves ppl.

Patty
October 1, 2020

Is there an extension office in or near Okeechobee County?

Kirsten Romaguera

October 1, 2020

Hi Sandra! Thanks for your interest. The UF/IFAS Extension Marion County office is located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd in Ocala. Here is their website if you need any other contact information: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/marion/.

Sandra
October 1, 2020

Collection locations in Ocala?

JoAnn Bishop RN
September 15, 2020

I totally understand the article our Son went thru a bout of Chemo for tx and the article was fascinating to me... Thank You

JoAnn RN
September 15, 2020

Very interesting article. Awesome

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Lourdes Rodriguez

August 17, 2020

Hi MS Malagday. Sorry for the delay, I am unable to find your original request. In the meantime, I will forward your inquiry to Dr. Alan Chambers.

JAN
August 16, 2020

Did you ever hear an answer? I would love to try to grow one? Thanks

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Lourdes Rodriguez

July 15, 2020

Thank you for reaching out to UF/IFAS. We are very excited about this opportunity to continue 4-H programs. If you’d like information about supporting youth and families through 4-H in your community, please contact Caylin Hilton with Florida 4-H at grow4H@ifas.ufl.edu or 352-392-5432. To get involved with 4-H in your area, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension office by visiting http://florida4h.org/getinvolved/. For more information about UF/IFAS Extension Broward County 4-H’s work, please visit https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/broward-4-h-youth-development/

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Lourdes Rodriguez

July 15, 2020

Thank you for reaching out to UF/IFAS . At this time, due to COVID restrictions, the children are unable to meet in groups. The 4-H agent, however, is still working virtually on continuing the program.

David Barhouma
July 15, 2020

Hi Alan My wife and I have just moved from Canada to Florida and looking for land to purchase for farming and are interested in many of the new initiatives you are exploring especially vanilla. We want to grow a few as well to get more familiar while we are locking in land etc and a plan here to farm the natural way. Can you and are you able to let us purchase some plants to try or direct us to the right area? We also could and are willing to assist you in testing etc if you wish. Let us know please and excited to here more

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Lourdes Rodriguez

July 14, 2020

Thank you for reaching out to UF/IFAS. Unfortunately, this was designed for Palm Beach residents only. The UF/IFAS Extension Office did not have the same arrangement. However, there are many online virtual camps that you can take advantage and that are available from any one of the counties. Please log on to http://florida4h.org/programsandevents_/4-h-adventures/ If you wish to reach the Broward County 4-H site, please go to http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/

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Lourdes Rodriguez

July 14, 2020

Hello Paul, thank you for reaching out to UF IFAS. The UF/IFAS Extension Brevard County office covers and offers programs for the City of Melbourne. Here is some information with a contact number. The website can be reached by logging on to https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/brevard/ The Extension Direction is Elizabeth Shepherd who can be reached via email at bshephar@ufl.edu. If you wish to call the office, please call Tel: (321) 633-1702 but please keep in mind that due to COVID restrictions, there may be some schedule conflicts.

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Lourdes Rodriguez

July 14, 2020

Hello Sharon, so sorry for the delay. Let me put you in touch with Lorna Bravo, the UF/IFAS Broward County Extension Director. Her phone 954-756-8529 lbravo1@ufl.edu

Marco Metzger
June 8, 2020

I work in Palm Beach but live in Broward. Can my kids still get a take home kit? I can’t find this for Broward County extension office.

Rose Bechard Butman
May 29, 2020

Are the children still allowed to meet at the Community Garden?

Juan Sierra
May 29, 2020

Awesome news for our community! 4H greatly contribute to balance life with exceptional family-oriented leadership programs. Thank you Glick Philanthropies.

Sharon
April 18, 2020

Is it possible to join the hydroponics class?

Paul Biggs M.D. FAAFP
April 2, 2020

Who is the UF/IFAS point of contact for the Melbourne, Florida area? Thanks.

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Lourdes Rodriguez

March 31, 2020

HI Jeffrey, I am forwarding your request to Lorna Bravo, the extension director for UF/IFAS Extension Broward who will be happy to assist you.

here
March 29, 2020

I read this article fully regarding the difference of most up-to-date and preceding technologies, it's amazing article.

Jeffrey
March 26, 2020

Where can I get the plans to make those bucket planters?

David D
March 19, 2020

Outstanding! Congratulations!

Cynthia Hamilton
March 1, 2020

Good Morning! We are very excited about this new research on Vanilla Planifiolia in Florida. We are landowners interested in starting a Vanillery . Our la nd offers the shade, humidity and natural structures that support orchid habitat at a large scale. Please reply this comment at chamilton21@gmail.com Looking forward to hear from you or Mr Chambers

Denise Fraser
February 15, 2020

Hi, I am a retired physician and am very intrigued with the idea of growing vanilla in Florida. I was thinking of setting up a greenhouse in my area, Fernandina Beach to start, a small business. I think vanilla growing would be do-able here in a green house to protect the plants in the winter. I have been to Tahiti and visited a vanilla farm; it has interested me ever since, and I have made extract with the beans I brought home. It is far superior to any store bought. I was wondering how I would be able to procure enough cuttings to start my business? Are you in contact with a supplier for your ventures? I would appreciate any help you could give me in this area. Thank you for any help you can provide.

Cheryl Malagday
February 12, 2020

Hello, Thirty years ago when I was coming back to Florida from Hawaii I had to leave behind a vanilla orchid I was given. I hated it. I knew I couldn't and wouldn't smuggle it back here. I have wanted one ever since. Is there a way I could buy one? I live in Fort Walton which is more humid than there and gets very cold at times, so I would build the orchid it's own house if necessary. Please contact me when you have time. cperkins1000@gmail.com Cheryl P. Malagday 40 Windham Ave. #40 Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548

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Lourdes Rodriguez

February 10, 2020

Hi Tanya, I will forward your question to Dr. Brym as well as other scientists at UF. In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to me directly. Lourdes Rodriguez rodriguezl@ufl.edu 954-577-6363

Tanya Goldsmith
February 10, 2020

If this should escape could parts of the plants be toxic to horses? I asked our ag agent awhile back and we discovered conflicting reports. Thanks

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Lourdes Rodriguez

February 5, 2020

So sorry for the delay. Let me get working on that request for you.

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Samantha Murray

January 14, 2020

That's great! You can sign up for the course here:

Josué DAMATAL
January 14, 2020

I'am interested

Kim Lawton
January 13, 2020

I have a huge hive of honey bees you are welcome to in Port Charlotte.

Linda Biedermann
January 3, 2020

Are there Master Naturalist classes, and volunteer opportunities, available in Leon County?

Dionne Morris
December 22, 2019

Wow, I would love to have cuttings to try in my location. I have a few cuttings that I started this past September but am interested it what you are doing.

Joanne Smith
December 21, 2019

I have been growing the orchid for 2 years, no flowers as of yet...excited fir my first bloom.

Dana Edwards

November 14, 2019

You can make a pre-sale order. See details: https://sites.google.com/site/ufhortclub/poinsettia-sale

Lydia Hull
November 14, 2019

Is it possible to purchase December 3rd. There is a teachers luncheon December 4 that I’m responsible for flowers. I’ve purchased the last three years and have been extremely pleased with the plants and would live to share with the teachers at Oak Hall School.

Mary
October 30, 2019

Brilliant idea! I asked out sons advisor for a mentor for him! It would have really made a difference and still could! Great minds think alike!

Georgene Bender
September 13, 2019

Denise is a wonderful person - fabulous mother, volunteer and so many other jobs she has. I am pleased to have worked with her. She always has a smile on her face and a good thing to say about people. Thanks for highlighting this wonderful 4-H volunteer.

Howard C Lucas
November 29, 2018

Juanita Popenoe, I was a citrus grower,killed by greening. Located at 7317 Crystal Beach Road, Winter Haven, Florida, just south of your area and a little warmer. Pushing out last of dead citrus now. Replanting with avocados, Choquette, Monroe and Oro Negro. Now 2500 in ground half 1 year old and half 2 years old. Will have 35 to 40 acres of avocados. They will be cold protected by micro jet irrigation. Advantages: They are hard when mature to be picked, will not bruise and can be handled like fresh citrus, picked, processed, packed and sold by Dundee Citrus Growers Association ( I am a member). They have a shelf life of 3 to 4 weeks. You might be able to grow cold hardy varieties in your area. I purchased the trees from Heather Teatig at Pine Island Nursery. She is very knowledgeable about Avocados. I will be interested in having more growers in this area to build up the market. Howard C Lucas 560 Avenue K, SE, Winter Haven ,Florida 33880 ( mailing address) email. hclmdeyes@aol.com office phone 863-294-2450 cell phone 863-412-4961

Patti Cardoso
April 3, 2018

You’re a special lady and a wonderful dairy advocate! So happy to see you featured...congrats and thanks for all you do to promote the beneficial aspects of women in dairy!

Selma McClarigan
March 31, 2018

Awesome article and Colleen is an awesome lady! I taught with Colleen's mom, and watched Colleen growing up. She was in my daughter's class at school. They were on the same softball team for several years. So glad to see she is doing well. I am sure that the students that Colleen teaches will be well taught!

Mebratu Melaku
January 4, 2018

It is a very interesting news. Since especially, Ethiopia has a huge livestock population but the income from these livestock population is very far below the expected. The greatest problem in addition to genetics and disease, "Lack of good-quality, year-round feed for livestock" is a very critical which was mentioned and described above. Therefore the project will bring a good insight for the rural poor smallholders' livestock keepers through conducting research, extension and technology transfer.

George
December 4, 2017

Where can I purchase this book

William B. Van Duyn
September 20, 2017

A tour of storm damage in the heavily wooded Orange Park area revealed that about 95% of the downed trees were laurel oaks (often mis-identified as the less common water oak which has similar properties). There was almost no damage to the much stronger live oaks and few other species came down. Laurel oaks, especially large, old ones, are much more susceptible to storm damage than most other large trees and homeowners should be aware of this. They are prone to breaking off in any part of the trunk, have weak root systems and easily shed branches in strong wind. They are very heavy and can do a lot of damage. Even worse, they are subject to internal rot in the roots, trunk and branches which often remains invisible until the tree breaks off or comes down. They are prone to rot in the roots and hollowing in the stump that can result in the tree falling down even in the absence of wind. I had one large tree and several large limbs come down that way and have seen others fall with no wind. Homeowners take heed.

Dahna R. James
September 10, 2017

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! I am quite familiar with your extension sites and I am very pleased with the great knowledge that you share. UF is the best!!! So let's here it ! GO GATORS!! Thank you again for all your hard work & the knowledge you share. God Bless and stay safe~

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Samantha Grenrock

August 10, 2017

Hi Barbra, Thanks for your message! If you'd like to participate in the Air Potato Patrol, please go to https://airpotatobeetle.com/.

Barbra Faircloth Harless
August 1, 2017

I have air potato vines at my house on the Aucilla River in Taylor County. I have not been able to attend any class on the problem even tho I am a MG for Leon Co Extension. I will be glad to report, participate, help in any project to get rid of them. I have two emails, one listed below and the other is barbra@fairclothagency.com

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Samantha Grenrock

July 12, 2017

Hi, Tom, thanks for getting in touch. You can request beetles online at http://bcrcl.ifas.ufl.edu/airpotatofiles/airpotatoforms.shtml. Since you're in Polk County, you'll fill out a request for Area 2. Let us know if you have any other questions!

Tom Trulson
July 7, 2017

Are air potato beetles available for Polk County? We have had an ongoing problem along our property line in south Lakeland for several years and, with the recent rains, the plant is again overtaking our native vegetation, including elephant ears and even oak/camphor trees to the extent the smaller plants are all dying. I contacted the City's Parks & Recreation Department about acquiring beetles and was advised to contact you myself rather than through their office. I can send you pictures of our damage if necessary, but would definitely appreciate your timely assistance. In addition to my personal email (below) you may contact me at 863-398-1079. Thank you.

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Samantha Grenrock

June 26, 2017

Hi Laurie, Thanks for writing! You can request more beetles here. We also have a new citizen science program for those interested in helping scientist control air potato. You can find out more at https://airpotatobeetle.com/.

Laurie Jackson
June 21, 2017

2 years ago, I registered for and received the red beetles to help control the air potato vines in my yard. I am wondering if I can get more of the beetles through your co-op. I live in Seminole, FL and the beetles helped control the vines but we no longer have the beetles in the yard and need more. Thank you. Laurie

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