A Naturally Compartmented Rumen Simulation System for the Continuous Culture of Rumen Bacteria and Protozoa

Abstract

The rumen simulation system described herein is a partially stirred fermenter with an overflow placed in the bottom third of the fermentation chamber. Feed particles stratify in the fermenter according to density in much the same fashion as feed particles do in the natural rumen, producing different solid and liquid turnover rates. The fermenter maintains rumen microbial populations and fermentation parameters at normal numbers for at least 2 wk at liquid turnover rates of up to 2/d. Feeding can be manual or automated. The mechanical simplicity of the system and low stirring speed provide high reliability and operating ease at low cost.