Facial eczema (FE) is a significant disease for sheep, particularly in the northern North Island of New Zealand. A toxin, sporidesmin, is produced by a fungus that lives in the base of pasture.
This toxin has a serious effect on animal metabolism and causes liver damage. It reduces productivity and in many cases can lead to death.
Minda Hills genetics has been testing for FE tolerance for 9 years and making great progress.
| Year Born | Number Tested | Dose |
| 2011 | 20 | 0.3 |
| 2013 | 34 | <0.35 |
| 2014 | 33 | <0.35 |
| 2015 | 54 | <0.4 |
| 2016 | 50 | <0.4 |
| 2017 | 27 | <0.43 |
| 2018 | 44 | <0.5 |
| 2019 | 30 | <0.5 |
| 2020 | 36 | <0.6 |
| 2021 | 48 | <0.6 |
| 2022 | 33 | <0.6 |