ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Rumen fermentation is a process that converts ingested feed into energy sources for the host. Fiber scratches the rumen wall to start a series of contractions. These contractions lead to rumination, which is the process that physically breaks down the fiber source.

Detailed explanation-2: -Rumen microbes are the major source of protein in the cow’s diet. They break down Rumen Degradable Protein (RDP) to amino acids, then ammonia. Ammonia is a major source of nitrogen for microbial growth. The microbes also convert non-protein nitrogen to ammonia.

Detailed explanation-3: -Ruminant animals can digest fibre via microbial fermentation to obtain useful energy needed for various biological functions. In dairy cows, dietary fibre improves milk fat by increasing the amount of rumen acetate which acts as a precursor of milk fat synthesis.

Detailed explanation-4: -Breakdown of complex plant fibers is initiated by degradative enzymes of rumen microbes, including enzymes capable of degrading cellulose, xylan (hemicellulose), and pectin.

Detailed explanation-5: -Because of its size, the rumen acts as a storage or holding vat for feed. Aside from storage, the rumen is also a fermentation vat. The rumen’s environment favors the growth of microbes. These microbes digest or ferment feed within the rumen and make volatile fatty acids (VFAs).