AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Reticulum – The reticulum is sometimes called the ‘honeycomb’ due to the honeycomb appearance of its lining and is found directly in front of the rumen and acts as a ‘screening device’ and prevents foreign objects such as nails interfering with the digestive process.

Detailed explanation-2: -The reticulum is a pouch-like structure in the forward area of the body, close to the heart. The tissues in the reticulum form a network similar to a honeycomb. A small tissue fold lies between the reticulum and rumen, but the two aren’t separate compartments. Together they’re called the rumino-reticulum.

Detailed explanation-3: -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-4: -The main functions of the cecum are to absorb fluids and salts that remain after completion of intestinal digestion and absorption and to mix its contents with a lubricating substance, mucus. The internal wall of the cecum is composed of a thick mucous membrane, through which water and salts are absorbed.

Detailed explanation-5: -More specifically, there are four sections of the stomach-rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum-each with a particular job to do. These sections store chewed plant material and grain, absorb nutrients and vitamins, break down proteins, aid in beginning digestion and dissolve material into processable pieces.