GI: The Rumen and Hindgut Fermenters I

Question 1

Describe the importance of cranial digestion of dietary nutrients in the ruminant animal

Question 2

Describe the processes that occur in the rumen

Question 3

Describe the functional importance of ruminal bacteria and protozoa to the digestive processes

Answer 3

Fermentation products are: Acetate, Propionate, and Butyrate and VFAs (volatile fatty acids) provide for the majority of a ruminant’s energy needs - no matter the food source, likely making a lot of acetate.

Question 4

Describe the pathogenesis of ruminant digestive diseases discussed in class

Answer 4

Rumen acidosis (also called “grain overload”)