Ruminants Have a Multi-Compartmented Stomach

question 17

Multiple Choice

Ruminants have a multi-compartmented stomach.They have a symbiotic relationship with bacterial organisms resident in the first of four compartments (the rumen) .How do the bacteria help ruminant digestion?

• A)They break down cellulose,a complex polysaccharide that would be indigestible without the assistance of bacterial organisms.
• B)They increase the rate of movement of contents through the alimentary canal.
• C)They maintain a basic pH in the rumen.
• D)They do not help with digestion,but benefit from foods eaten by the ruminant.

---

Definitions:

Golgi Tendon Reflex

A protective reflex mechanism that prevents muscle damage during excessive force by causing muscle relaxation.

Reciprocal Innervation

The coordination of muscle groups achieved through the activation of one muscle and the simultaneous inhibition of its antagonist.

Obturator Nerve

A nerve in the pelvic region that innervates the adductor muscles of the thigh.

Adduct Thigh

To adduct the thigh means to move the thigh inward towards the median axis of the body, a movement controlled by adductor muscles.