Texas A&M University (TAMU) ANSC108 General Animal Science Laboratory Final Practice Exam

Monogastric animals are characterized by having a single-chambered stomach, which means their digestive system is designed to process food more directly and simply, primarily through enzymatic digestion. Examples of monogastric animals include pigs and chickens. In contrast, ruminant animals possess a multi-chambered stomach consisting of compartments such as the rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum. This unique system allows them to break down fibrous plant materials more efficiently through a process known as rumination, where food is initially eaten and later re-chewed. Ruminants include animals like cows and sheep.

Understanding this distinction is crucial in animal science, as it influences dietary needs and management strategies for different species. While monogastrics typically thrive on concentrated feeds and grains, ruminants require diets rich in forage to support their complex digestion process.