THIRD STOMACH Meaning and
Definition
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The term "third stomach" refers to a specific organ found in the digestive system of certain animals, such as ruminants and camelids. This specialized stomach, also known as the omasum, follows the reticulum and precedes the abomasum in the sequence of chambers in the ruminant stomach. Its main function is to facilitate further breakdown and processing of partially digested food.
The third stomach is characterized by a unique structure composed of multiple layers of muscular, honeycomb-like tissues. These layers contain numerous finger-like projections called papillae. This elaborate internal structure greatly increases the absorptive surface area of the omasum, enabling efficient extraction of nutrients from the ingested material.
The primary role of the third stomach is to reabsorb water, electrolytes, and volatile fatty acids while reducing the water content of the digesta. This process helps maintain the body's fluid balance and aids in the concentration of nutrients for absorption. Additionally, the omasum mechanically grinds the food particles, further breaking them down before they proceed to the final chamber of the stomach.
The third stomach plays a crucial role in the unique digestive adaptations of ruminants, allowing them to efficiently extract nutrients from fibrous plant materials. Its structure and functions contribute to their ability to thrive on a diet rich in cellulose, lignin, and other complex carbohydrates that are indigestible for many other animals.
Common Misspellings for THIRD STOMACH
- rhird stomach
- fhird stomach
- ghird stomach
- yhird stomach
- 6hird stomach
- 5hird stomach
- tgird stomach
- tbird stomach
- tnird stomach
- tjird stomach
- tuird stomach
- tyird stomach
- thurd stomach
- thjrd stomach
- thkrd stomach
- thord stomach
- th9rd stomach
- th8rd stomach
- thied stomach
Similar spelling words for THIRD STOMACH
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