The diagram below shows the ruminant stomach - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question (c) - 2012
Question (c)
The diagram below shows the ruminant stomach.
(i) Explain the term ruminant.
(ii) Name the parts labelled A, B, C from the diagram. (Part D is already labelled).
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram below shows the ruminant stomach - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question (c) - 2012
Step 1
Explain the term ruminant.
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Answer
A ruminant is an animal that possesses a stomach divided into four compartments, allowing it to efficiently digest fibrous plant material. Ruminants chew the cud, regurgitating food to further break it down, which aids in the breakdown of cellulose.
Step 2
Name the parts labelled A, B, C from the diagram.
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Answer
A - Rumen or paunch (stomach)
B - Reticulum or honeycomb (stomach)
C - Abomasum or true stomach.
Step 3
Explain what happens in part A of the stomach.
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Answer
In part A, the rumen, initial fermentation occurs where microbial action breaks down cellulose and other complex carbohydrates. This process allows for the extraction of nutrients and energy from the plant material. The rumen serves as a storage chamber for food before it is regurgitated and further eaten as cud.
Step 4
Which chamber of the stomach is used first by calves and lambs?
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Answer
Calves and lambs primarily use the C - abomasum, also known as the true stomach, as it is the first chamber where food digestion begins in younger ruminants.
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