Which mammal has a multi-compartment stomach and digests plant-based food by initial fermentation in a specialized organ?

Which mammal has a multi-compartment stomach and digests plant-based food by initial fermentation in a specialized organ?

• A. Monogastric
• B. Ruminant
• C. Avian
• D. Amphibian

Answer: (B)

The concept here is foregut fermentation in mammals. Animals with a multi-chamber stomach, specifically four compartments—the rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum—are ruminants. In these animals, plant material first undergoes microbial fermentation in the rumen (and reticulum), where microbes break down complex cellulose into nutrients the animal can use. This initial fermentation is why cud-chewing ruminants like cows, sheep, and goats can efficiently digest fibrous plant matter. After the microbial action, the material passes through the other compartments for further digestion and absorption in the abomasum and intestines. This setup is different from monogastric animals with a single-chamber stomach, birds with a different digestive plan, and amphibians with simple stomachs. Hence, the best answer is the ruminant.

The concept here is foregut fermentation in mammals. Animals with a multi-chamber stomach, specifically four compartments—the rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum—are ruminants. In these animals, plant material first undergoes microbial fermentation in the rumen (and reticulum), where microbes break down complex cellulose into nutrients the animal can use. This initial fermentation is why cud-chewing ruminants like cows, sheep, and goats can efficiently digest fibrous plant matter. After the microbial action, the material passes through the other compartments for further digestion and absorption in the abomasum and intestines. This setup is different from monogastric animals with a single-chamber stomach, birds with a different digestive plan, and amphibians with simple stomachs. Hence, the best answer is the ruminant.