Discuss the major source of Ammonia in ruminant digestion?
The major source of Ammonia in ruminant digestion is microbial fermentation of proteins in the rumen. Ruminants have a unique digestive system that allows them to break down complex plant materials through fermentation by symbiotic microorganisms in their rumen. These microorganisms break down proteins into ammonia, which can then be used as a source of nitrogen for the synthesis of microbial protein.
The fermentation of proteins in the rumen results in the release of ammonium ions, which can then be absorbed and utilized by the rumen microbes for their own growth and metabolism. The ammonia produced in the rumen can also be absorbed by the ruminant and used for the synthesis of urea in the liver, which can then be recycled back to the rumen as a source of nitrogen.
Overall, ammonia plays a crucial role in ruminant digestion by providing a source of nitrogen for microbial growth and metabolism, as well as for the synthesis of essential amino acids and proteins.