ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The abomasum is also referred to as the true stomach. It has a similar function to stomachs of other animals, like humans. It has a low pH – an acidic environment that kills the bacteria that pass from the rumen. The abomasum is where the digestion of microbial and dietary proteins begins.

Detailed explanation-2: -Ruminant stomachs have four compartments: the rumen, the reticulum, the omasum and the abomasum. Rumen microbes ferment feed and produce volatile fatty acids, which is the cow’s main energy source.

Detailed explanation-3: -The abomasum produces hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes such as pepsin (breaks down proteins) and receives digestive enzymes secreted from the pancreas such as pancreatic lipase (breaks down fats). These secretions help prepare proteins for absorption in the intestines.

Detailed explanation-4: -The abomasum is the true stomach where the cow’s own enzymes and acids break down the ingested feed. Rumination is the process by which the cow regurgitates previously consumed feed and masticates it a second time.

Detailed explanation-5: -The abomasum, also known as the maw, rennet-bag, or reed tripe, is the fourth and final stomach compartment in ruminants. It secretes rennet, which is used in cheese creation.