Some cassava tubers are poisonous to non-ruminant because they contain
Answer Details
Cassava tubers can be poisonous to non-ruminants because they contain hydrocyanic acid.
Hydrocyanic acid, also known as hydrogen cyanide, is a toxic chemical that can cause serious health problems when ingested. While cassava is a staple food crop in many parts of the world, some varieties contain high levels of hydrocyanic acid, which can make them poisonous to non-ruminant animals, such as pigs and chickens.
When consumed in large quantities, hydrocyanic acid can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory failure, seizures, and even death. Therefore, it is important to process cassava tubers properly before consuming them, to remove as much of the hydrocyanic acid as possible.
One common method of processing cassava is to peel and soak the tubers in water for several hours or overnight, which can help to reduce the hydrocyanic acid content. The tubers can then be boiled, roasted, or fried, and consumed safely.
In summary, cassava tubers can be poisonous to non-ruminant animals because of their high hydrocyanic acid content. Proper processing and preparation of cassava tubers can help to reduce the risk of poisoning and make them safe for consumption.