the rumen complex- an applied nutrition approach

what is the function of concentrate feeds for calves?

stimulates the growth of rumen papillae

what is the function of volatile fatty acids for calves?

is results in long, luxuriant papillae which are well suited to promote absorption

what is the 1st stage of rumen development in calves?

60% abomasum and 25% rumen

milk bypasses the rumen via the oesophageal groove

glucose is absorbed

what is the 2nd stage of rumen development in calves?

20% abomasum, 65% rumen

begin feeding calf starter food, helps to develop rumen and rumen papillae

VFAs are absorbed

what is the 3rd stage of rumen development?

7-8% abomasum, 80% rumen

maintain grain intake until at least 6 months

when is it best to advise weaning?

when the calf is 2x its birth weight

13% of mature body weight

eating 1kg of concentrates

what are some challeneges with fibres?

it is a polysaccharide and so consists of glucans

glucans are beta linked and mammalian enzymes can’t break them down

these chains must be fermented by bugs

how often does the rumen contract?

1-3x a minute

what does the reticulum do?

traps large feed particles

regurgitation of ingesta followed by remastication and reswallowing

what is the function of folds in the omasum?

to squeeze water out of feed so all water remains in the rumen

what is the process of fibre digestion?

initially doesn’t chew

regurgitates and ruminates

until the particles is small enough to pass into the omasum