Here's a breakdown of the digestive process in cows and where nutrient absorption occurs:
1. Rumen: This is the largest compartment of the cow's stomach. It's a fermentation vat where microbes break down complex carbohydrates (like cellulose) into simpler compounds.
2. Reticulum: This compartment helps filter and separate larger particles.
3. Omasum: This compartment absorbs water and some nutrients.
4. Abomasum: This is the "true stomach" where digestive enzymes break down food further.
5. Small intestine: This is where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs. The small intestine has a large surface area due to villi and microvilli, which maximize nutrient absorption. Here, the products of microbial fermentation in the rumen and the breakdown in the abomasum are absorbed into the bloodstream.
6. Large intestine: This is where water absorption and further fermentation by microbes takes place. Some vitamins and minerals are also absorbed here.
Important to Note: While the small intestine is the main site of nutrient absorption, some nutrient absorption does occur in the rumen, reticulum, and omasum as well.