Microbial Digestion in Cows

What is the main reason cows can digest grass, but humans cannot?

• Cows have stronger teeth to chew grass more effectively.

• Humans do not enjoy the taste of grass.

• Cows possess specific microbes and enzymes that break down cellulose.

• Humans have a simpler digestive system than cows.

What complex carbohydrate, found in plant cell walls, is the primary component of grass?

• Protein

• Starch

• Cellulose

• Glucose

In which chamber of a cow's four-chambered stomach do microbes primarily digest grass?

• Reticulum

• Omasum

• Abomasum

• Rumen

Why would microbes from a cow's rumen not be able to break down cellulose if placed in a human stomach?

• The human stomach is too small for the microbes to survive.

• The human stomach is too acidic for the microbes to function.

• Humans do not consume enough grass for the microbes to work.

• The microbes would compete with human cells for nutrients.