Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Microfauna of Rumen
Microfauna of rumen contains:
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Protozoa — Correct Answer
- All the above
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Protozoa
Microfauna refers to microscopic animals — in the rumen, this means Protozoa. While bacteria and fungi are microflora (plant kingdom/microbes), protozoa are single-celled animal-like organisms classified as microfauna.
Microflora vs. Microfauna in the Rumen
| Category | Members | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Microflora | Bacteria, Fungi, Bacteriophage | Plant/microbial kingdom |
| Microfauna | Protozoa | Animal-like; ciliate; prey on bacteria |
Rumen Protozoa — Key Facts
- Majority are ciliate protozoa
- Protozoa control microbial population by preying on bacteria
- Also described as "mini-ruminant" (Von Soest)
- Population: 10⁶ per ml rumen liquor
- Defaunation removes protozoa → increases available bacterial protein
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Bacteria → microflora, not microfauna
- Fungi → microflora; mostly flagellated; function: substrate penetration by breaking lignocellulosic bonds
- All the above → incorrect; only protozoa are microfauna; bacteria and fungi are microflora
📚 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.
