GI System: Carnivore vs Herbivore vs Omnivore

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on the gastrointestinal system differences between carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores, including anatomical structures and their functions.

What are the dietary requirements of obligate carnivores?

They have a high requirement for certain amino acids and vitamins, specifically taurine.

How do omnivores differ from carnivores in terms of amino acids and vitamins?

Omnivores are able to create most amino acids and vitamins from part of their diet.

What is the primary source of energy for herbivores?

Herbivores obtain energy mainly from cellulose plant material.

What role do microbes play in herbivores' digestive systems?

Microbes help break down less energy-dense substances and provide protein.

Which orders classify carnivores, odd-toed ungulates, and even-toed ungulates?

Carnivores belong to Order Carnivora; odd-toed ungulates belong to Order Perissodactyla; even-toed ungulates belong to Order Artiodactyla.

What are the main functions of the mouth in the digestive system?

The mouth is involved in prehension, mastication, and insalivation of food.

What differentiates the lips of herbivores from carnivores?

Herbivores have more sensitive and mobile lips suited for grazing or browsing.

Describe the papillae on the tongue.

They have mechanical and/or taste functions and include filiform, fungiform, foliate, and vallate papillae.

What is the primary purpose of incisors in herbivores?

Incisors are sharp for shearing meat from bones or leaves from branches.

What is the role of the salivary glands in digestion?

Salivary glands produce mucous and serous fluids that contain digestive enzymes to start digestion.

What is the composition of the esophagus?

The esophagus has three layers: inner mucosa, middle muscular layer, and outer submucosa.

What is the process of deglutition?

Deglutition, or swallowing, begins voluntarily and becomes involuntary once the bolus touches the pharyngeal mucosa.

What is the difference between retroperitoneal and intraperitoneal organs?

Retroperitoneal organs are adhered directly to the body wall, while intraperitoneal organs are surrounded by peritoneal folds.

What are the two parts of the greater omentum?

The greater omentum supports the stomach and is associated with fatty deposits.

What defines the cecum in herbivores compared to carnivores?

In herbivores, the cecum is larger and continuous with the colon, while in carnivores, it is relatively small.

Which accessory organ has both endocrine and exocrine functions?

The pancreas has both endocrine (hormonal) and exocrine (digestive) functions.

What is the function of bile produced by the liver?

Bile helps break down fats and is stored in the gallbladder.

Where do the pancreatic and bile ducts typically open in the duodenum?

In some species, they have separate openings; in others, they share a common opening.