Lecture 6: Ruminant Digestion and Rumen Function

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to ruminant digestion, including the anatomy, physiology, and microbial interactions in the rumen.

Ruminant

An animal characterized by a four-compartment stomach and cud-chewing behavior.

Four Compartments of Ruminant Stomach

Rumen, Reticulum, Omasum, Abomasum.

Cud

Partly digested feed that is regurgitated and chewed again by ruminants.

Saliva Production in Cattle

Cows produce approximately 200 liters of saliva (~55 gallons) which is rich in buffers.

Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA)

Fatty acids produced by microbial fermentation in the rumen, including acetate, propionate, and butyrate.

Eructation

The process of belching to remove fermentation gases from the rumen.

Rumen Fermentation

The anaerobic process in which microbes break down fibrous plant material, producing volatile fatty acids.

Dietary Polysaccharides

Complex carbohydrates that are broken down into monosaccharides (glucose) during digestion.

Microbial Mass in Rumen

Composed of bacteria (60-90%), protozoa (20-40%), and fungi (5-10%), contributing to digestion.

Anaerobic Fermentation

A process occurring in the rumen that does not require oxygen and produces short chain fatty acids and gases.

Nitrogen Recycling

The process by which ruminants recycle nitrogen from non-protein sources in the diet to support microbial growth.

Bloat

A condition resulting from excessive gas accumulation in the rumen, which can lead to serious health issues.