Two New York men died after using bat guano as fertilizer for their cannabis plants, according to a recent study. The researchers found that the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, released by the bat waste, caused fatal lung infections in both men.
One man had purchased bat guano online, while the other had collected it from his attic due to a bat infestation. Their deaths were not directly related, but highlight the growing trend of people using bat guano as a fertilizer for cannabis plants.
Experts warn that commercial fertilizers containing bat guano should be tested for Histoplasma before being sold. Health officials stress the importance of early testing and antifungal treatment to prevent severe infections. The fungus is commonly found in soil, bird, and bat droppings in areas across the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Source: https://www.azfamily.com/2024/12/18/2-men-die-after-growing-cannabis-with-bat-feces-fertilizer-study-says