Ruminant Digestive System Flashcard

Front

What is prehension in the context of the ruminant digestive system?

Back

Prehension refers to the act of grabbing or grasping food, which is the first step in the digestive process.

Front

How does the length of the digestive system in ruminants compare to that of monogastric animals?

Back

The digestive system of ruminants is longer than that of monogastric animals, allowing for more extensive fermentation and digestion.

Front

What are the finger-like projections on the tongue of ruminants called?

Back

The finger-like projections on the tongue of ruminants are called papillae, which help in grasping and manipulating food.

Front

What is the term for the process where ruminants regurgitate food to chew it again?

Back

The process is called ruminating, which allows ruminants to break down food more thoroughly.

Front

What is mastication in the digestive process?

Back

Mastication is the process of chewing food, which is essential for breaking it down into smaller pieces for digestion.

Front

What role does fermentation play in the ruminant digestive system?

Back

Fermentation is a crucial process in the ruminant digestive system that allows for the breakdown of complex carbohydrates by microbes.

Front

What is the primary function of the rumen in ruminants?

Back

The rumen serves as a fermentation chamber where microbes break down fibrous plant material.

Front

What is the significance of the reticulum in the ruminant digestive system?

Back

The reticulum works closely with the rumen to trap foreign objects and aid in the mixing of food.

Front

How does the omasum contribute to digestion in ruminants?

Back

The omasum absorbs water and nutrients from the digested food before it moves to the abomasum.

Front

What is the abomasum often referred to as in ruminants?

Back

The abomasum is often referred to as the 'true stomach' where enzymatic digestion occurs.