Functional Development of Rumen Mucosa. I. Absorptive Ability

Abstract

Two Holstein calves were fed milk, alfalfa hay, and starter (MI-IG) ; two received milk only (IV[). Absorption of acetic acid was measured from a test solution, pH 6.6, introduced into the emptied, fistulated tureen. Mean maximum absorption rates (milligrams of acid/100 ml of solution per hour) at 1, 4, 8, and 13 wk of age, respectively, were 30, 163, 179, and 402 for MHG calves and 21, 26, 22, and 22 for M calves. One calf was switched at 19 wk of age from M to MHG; absorption rates at 16, 21, 23, 27, and 36 wk of age, respectively, were 21, 48, 142, 191, and 248. Absorption did not increase in a calf on M up to 34 wk of age.