AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The main function of the reticulum is to collect smaller digesta particles and move them into the omasum while the larger particles remain in the rumen for further digestion. The reticulum also traps and collects heavy/dense objects consumed by the animal.

Detailed explanation-2: -Foreign bodies may involve the entire upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The oropharynx is well innervated, and patients can typically localize oropharyngeal foreign bodies. Scratches or abrasions to the mucosal surface of the oropharynx can create a foreign body sensation.

Detailed explanation-3: -In the reticulum, digestive juices partially digest the food. Partially digested food is called cud. Now when mammals are resting, bring the cud back into the mouth for rechewing. After cud is chewed food is passed to the omasum and the abomasum.

Detailed explanation-4: -The reticulum also traps and collects heavy/dense objects the animal consumes. When a ruminant consumes a nail, wire, or other sharp heavy object, it is very likely the object will be caught in the reticulum.

Detailed explanation-5: -At regular intervals, the reticulum acts like a pump and squeezes any part of the matt floating in it to form a bolus. This bolus of food is called “the cud”. The cud is pumped back up the esophagus into the goat’s mouth for the goat to chew and re-chew and then swallowed again.