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(a) (i) Outline the role of microbes in the rumen of a farm animal - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 8 - 2007
Question 8
(a) (i) Outline the role of microbes in the rumen of a farm animal. (ii) Describe the pathway taken by any named food nutrient within an animal's body following... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:(a) (i) Outline the role of microbes in the rumen of a farm animal - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 8 - 2007
Step 1
(i) Outline the role of microbes in the rumen of a farm animal.
Answer
Microbes in the rumen play a crucial role in the digestion of cellulose from plant materials. They assist in breaking down complex carbohydrates, converting them into simpler sugars that can be absorbed. Additionally, these microbes are involved in the synthesis of essential vitamins and amino acids, which are vital for the animal's health. They also produce microbial proteins that the animal can utilize.
Step 2
(ii) Describe the pathway taken by any named food nutrient within an animal's body following digestion.
Answer
Taking glucose as an example, once it is absorbed from the small intestine, it enters the hepatic portal vein and is carried to the liver. In the liver, glucose can be stored as glycogen or it can be distributed to other body cells for immediate energy use. This pathway illustrates the transport and utilization of glucose within the animal's body.