The Ruminant Animal Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Oklahoma

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The Ruminant Animal Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Oklahoma State University

The Ruminant Animal Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Oklahoma State University

Arable Land Globally: • 1/32 of the land mass is suitable for cultivation. United

Arable Land Globally: • 1/32 of the land mass is suitable for cultivation. United States: • Today there is 1. 875 acres person. • By 2025 there will be 1. 25 acres person suitable for cultivation.

Reticulo-Rumen

Reticulo-Rumen

Rumen Stratification of Ingesta

Rumen Stratification of Ingesta

Time Grazing vs. Time Ruminating

Time Grazing vs. Time Ruminating

Bacterial Fermentation • Process of Digestion. • Rumen Bacterial Population 150 billion/tsp • Located

Bacterial Fermentation • Process of Digestion. • Rumen Bacterial Population 150 billion/tsp • Located in Fibrous Mat and Liquid Layer. • Over 150 Microbial Species Determined by Type of Feed, and Reproductive Rate.

Rumination • Process of rapid ingestion of forage for remastication later. • Reduces particle

Rumination • Process of rapid ingestion of forage for remastication later. • Reduces particle size enhancing microbial function, and feed passage. • “Cud” chewing produces saliva flow up to 45 gallons per day. • Saliva buffers the rumen to enhance microbial growth and development.

Rumen Microorganisms • Symbiotic relationship enhancing digestive processes • Structural carbohydrates require fermentation •

Rumen Microorganisms • Symbiotic relationship enhancing digestive processes • Structural carbohydrates require fermentation • Nonstructural carbohydrates readily digestible • Primary bacteria are fiber-digesters, and starch-digesters

Rumen Microorganisms (cont. ) • Volatile fatty acids (products of fermentation) provide up to

Rumen Microorganisms (cont. ) • Volatile fatty acids (products of fermentation) provide up to 80% of the energy needs of the animal. • The beef cow derives most of her protein from digestion of rumen microbes. • Changes in diets should take place slowly to avoid digestive problems.

Summary • Cattle are ruminants. • Depend on microorganisms for protein and energy. •

Summary • Cattle are ruminants. • Depend on microorganisms for protein and energy. • Feeding programs should maximize microbial protein production first. • Supplemental feeding programs should meet dietary deficiencies.