Did you know that the digestive system of ruminants is fundamental not only for the health of these animals, but also for the production of food? That's right! The digestion process in these animals is very peculiar and essential to ensure proper nutrition. In this post we will talk about the importance of this system so special and how it influences the productive chain of livestock. Come with us to find out more about ruminants and their amazing digestive system!

What is ruminant digestive system?

The digestive system of ruminants consists of the rumen, reticulum, omasum, abomasum and intestines. The rumen is the first part of the digestive tract and has two main functions: storing food and starting fermentation. Foods are digested in the rumen by microorganisms, which produce organic acids that solubilize food nutrients. Fermentation also contributes to the production of organic acids that aid in the digestion of food in the rest of the digestive tract.

The omasum and reticulum are responsible for retaining larger food particles such as hay, grains, and others. The abomasum is the final stage of fermentation and the last part of the digestive tract. Complete chemical digestion takes place in the abomasum, which contains enzymes specialized for digesting food. Nutrients from food are absorbed in the small, thick intestines before being excreted through the feces.

Why do ruminants have a different digestive system?

Ruminants, such as ox, cow, buffalo and ram, have a different digestive system from other animals. They have four stomach compartments: the rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum.

Cellulose is a plant fiber indigestible to humans and other animals because it has no enzymes to break it down. However, ruminants have a type of bacteria in their stomach called Rumenococcus flavefaciens that produces the enzyme cellulase.

What are the main differences from the digestive system of ruminants to humans?

The digestive system of ruminants is very different from ours. They have four stomach compartments (the rumen, the reticulum, the omasum and the abomasum IO that allow the digestion of complex foods, such as vegetation. In addition, ruminants have a fermentation process that humans do not have, which helps them digest these foods.