Here are some key characteristics of herbivorous mammals:
* Specialized digestive systems: They have adapted digestive systems to break down tough plant material like cellulose, which humans cannot digest. This often includes multiple stomachs or long intestines for fermentation.
* Adapted teeth: They possess teeth specifically designed for grinding and chewing plant matter. This often includes flat molars and incisors for biting and tearing.
* Diet: Their diet is entirely plant-based, consisting of grasses, leaves, fruits, seeds, and other vegetation.
* Examples: Some common examples include cows, horses, deer, rabbits, elephants, and giraffes.
Why are herbivorous mammals important?
They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by:
* Controlling plant growth: They help regulate plant populations by consuming vegetation.
* Nutrient cycling: They contribute to the nutrient cycle by consuming plants and excreting waste, which provides nutrients for other organisms.
* Seed dispersal: Some herbivores play a role in seed dispersal, helping plants reproduce and spread.
Important note: While herbivorous mammals primarily eat plants, some may occasionally consume small insects or other animal matter. However, their primary food source remains plants.