Discuss major sources and fate of the following substances in ruminate digestion

Question

1. propionic,ethanoic and butanoic acid
2. Methane
3. Carbon dioxide
4. Ammonia

Answer 1

1. Propionic, ethanoic, and butanoic acid: These are volatile fatty acids (VFAs) that are produced during ruminate digestion. They are the end products of microbial fermentation of carbohydrates in the rumen. VFAs are essential energy sources for the ruminant animal and are absorbed across the rumen wall into the bloodstream. From there, they can be used by the animal for energy or converted into other compounds such as fat.

2. Methane: Methane is also produced during ruminate digestion as a byproduct of microbial fermentation. Methane is primarily generated by methanogenic archaea that reside in the rumen. These microorganisms break down complex carbohydrates, such as cellulose and hemicellulose, producing methane as a result. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas and contributes to global warming when released into the atmosphere. It is mostly expelled by the ruminant through belching (eructation).

3. Carbon dioxide: Carbon dioxide is another byproduct of microbial fermentation in ruminant digestion. It is produced during the breakdown of carbohydrates by various microorganisms in the rumen. Similar to methane, carbon dioxide can be belched out by the ruminant.

4. Ammonia: Ammonia is a nitrogenous compound that is also produced during microbial fermentation in the rumen. It is formed through the breakdown of dietary proteins and urea by the bacteria and protozoa in the rumen. Ammonia plays a vital role in the nitrogen cycle as it can be utilized by rumen microbes to synthesize microbial protein. It can also be absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the liver, where it is converted into urea for excretion in urine.

In summary, propionic, ethanoic, and butanoic acid are important energy sources that are absorbed by the animal, while methane and carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere through eructation. Ammonia serves as a nitrogen source for rumen microbes and can be absorbed into the bloodstream or excreted in urine.