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Describe the functions of the following parts of the avian digestive system - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question f - 2018
Question f
Describe the functions of the following parts of the avian digestive system. (i) The gizzard. (ii) The crop.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe the functions of the following parts of the avian digestive system - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question f - 2018
Step 1
The gizzard.
Answer
The gizzard is a muscular part of the avian digestive system that plays a crucial role in the mechanical digestion of food. It grinds the food particles using grit, which is ingested by birds. This physical digestion is essential because birds lack teeth, and the gizzard compensates for this by breaking down hard seeds and other food items into smaller, digestible pieces.
Step 2
The crop.
Answer
The crop serves as a storage pouch for food in the avian digestive system. It allows birds to temporarily store their food before it moves to the next stage of digestion. This mechanism enables birds to consume larger quantities of food at once and digest it later, ensuring a continuous supply of energy.