Topics:
Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher
pH of Abomasal Content
Overall pH of abomasal content is:
- 2.0 — Correct Answer
- 4
- 5.8
- 8
Explanation:
Correct Answer: 2.0
The abomasum is the 'true stomach' of ruminants and secretes HCl (hydrochloric acid), making its pH approximately 2.0 — strongly acidic, similar to the stomach of non-ruminants.
Role of the Acidic pH in Abomasum
- HCl activates the conversion of pepsinogen → pepsin (proteolytic enzyme).
- The acid environment kills most microorganisms that enter from the rumen.
- In neonatal calves, the abomasum also secretes rennin (chymosin) which clots milk — important for milk digestion in the suckling phase.
GIT pH Overview in Ruminants
- Saliva: 8.0 (strongly alkaline — buffers rumen)
- Rumen: 6.5–6.8
- Abomasum: 2.0 (strongly acidic)
- Small intestine (duodenum): ~6.0–7.0 (neutralized by pancreatic bicarbonate)
- Blood: 7.4
📚 About this Topic — Animal Physiology
This multiple choice question is from Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Physiology to strengthen your preparation.
