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The rumen is one of the calf's stomach chambers - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question d - 2014
Question d
The rumen is one of the calf's stomach chambers. (i) What is the main function of the rumen? (ii) How can the rumen be helped to develop in the young calf? (iii) ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The rumen is one of the calf's stomach chambers - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question d - 2014
Step 1
What is the main function of the rumen?
Answer
The main function of the rumen is the digestion of cellulose. This process involves the action of bacteria which helps break down roughage. Additionally, the rumen plays a crucial role in storing food and making essential vitamins and proteins, contributing greatly to the overall digestive health of the calf.
Step 2
How can the rumen be helped to develop in the young calf?
Answer
To help the rumen develop in a young calf, it is important to provide a diet that includes feeding of hay or straw. This introduces scratch factors necessary for rumen development, and gradually increasing the intake of concentrates can also be beneficial. Creep feeding can facilitate early rumen function, enhancing microbial population and enzyme activity.
Step 3