Why are ruminant animals like cows able to digest cellulose?
A) Their teeth are able to grind the polysaccharide into smaller saccharides.
B) Their stomachs secrete the enzyme cellulose.
C) They have a stomach compartment that houses symbiotic microorganisms that can hydrolyze cellulose.
D) Their small intestine contains an environment suitable to hydrolyze cellulose.
E) All animals can digest cellulose.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ruminant animals like cows have a stomach compartment called the rumen where symbiotic microorganisms like bacteria and protozoa break down the cellulose into smaller saccharides through a process called fermentation. The breakdown products are then absorbed by the animal's intestines.

Why Are Ruminant Animals Like Cows Able to Digest Cellulose