Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Characteristics of Ruminal Bacteria
Which of the following statements is/are true about ruminal bacteria?
(a) The majority of rumen bacteria are gram (−)ve & obligate anaerobes.
(b) Population of rumen bacteria per ml of rumen liquor is 10⁹–10¹¹
(c) They grow well at 39°C temperature
- Only (a)
- Only (a) and (b)
- Only (b) and (c)
- All the above — (a), (b) and (c) — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: All the above
All three statements are correct:
- (a): Most rumen bacteria are gram-negative obligate anaerobes. Exception: lactic acid bacteria are facultative anaerobes attached near the rumen wall.
- (b): Bacteria population is 10¹⁰⁻¹¹ per ml — the most numerous of all rumen microbes.
- (c): Optimum temperature for rumen microbial activity is 39°C (rumen body temperature). Normal rumen pH = 6.5–6.8.
Rumen Microbial Population
- Bacteria: 10¹⁰⁻¹¹/ml
- Bacteriophage: 10⁹/ml
- Protozoa: 10⁶/ml
- Fungi/Yeast: 10³/ml
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
