The domestic cow houses many billions of bacteria in its rumen (stomach). With this arrangement, the bacteria gain access to the ingested plant material, which they digest and utilize. However, a waste product of the bacterial digestion is volatile fatty acids, which the cow absorbs and uses to support its own energy requirements. What is this relationship between the bacteria and the cow an example of?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Trophic mutualism describes a relationship where both parties benefit from the exchange of nutrients or energy, as seen between the bacteria and the cow. The bacteria get access to food, and the cow gets energy from the bacteria's waste products.

The Domestic Cow Houses Many Billions of Bacteria in Its