Abomasum
Abomasum
The Abomasum (/əˈbɒməsəm/), also known as the fourth stomach of a ruminant animal, is the final stomach compartment in ruminants. It functions similarly to the human stomach in its task of breaking down food particles before they enter the small intestine.
Etymology
The term "Abomasum" is derived from the Latin words 'ab-' meaning 'away' and 'omasum' meaning 'tripe'. It was so named because it was thought to be away from or unlike the other parts of the ruminant's stomach.
Function
The Abomasum is where the actual digestion of food takes place. It is lined with glands that secrete hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes to break down the food particles. The digested food then moves into the small intestine where nutrients are absorbed.
Related Terms
- Rumen: The first stomach compartment in ruminants, where fermentation of ingested feed occurs.
- Reticulum: The second stomach compartment, often referred to as the 'honeycomb'.
- Omasum: The third stomach compartment, also known as the 'manyplies', which absorbs water and nutrients.
- Ruminant: A type of mammal that digests plant-based food by fermenting it in a specialized stomach prior to digestion.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Abomasum
- Wikipedia's article - Abomasum
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