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Reticulum

Diagram of cow's digestion: reticulum and direction of the bolus

The reticulum is not physically separated from the rumen. Its main role is to act as a filter, trapping larger feed particles that require further digestion. These larger food particles are regurgitated and rechewed – a process called rumination – with more saliva. They are then swallowed into the rumen again. Small food particles go straight into the omasum.

Image: The reticulum is highlighted in pink. The arrows show the direction of the bolus. © DairyNZ.

Glossary

Rights: DairyNZ
Published: 31 March 2021Size: 476.3 KB
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