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A Study of the pH Values of the Ingesta of the Bovine Rumen

Department of Dairy Industry, Ohio Agricultural Experiment Station, Wooster, Ohio

ABSTRACT

The rumen, or first compartment of the ruminant stomach, plays a very important role in the digestive processes of the bovine species. It is here that the feed after being swallowed is stored, mixed, and softened with water and saliva, as well as subjected to a certain amount of digestive activity by bacteria. To maintain the optimum conditions for the bacterial activity, it is logical to assume that one of the requirements would be the maintenance of a proper hydrogen ion concentration. Although nature probably has a means of regulating the reaction in the rumen, it is probable that extremes in feeding have some influence. For instance, such extremes as heavy grain feeding or the excessive use of corn or A.I.V. silages may affect the balance.

LITERATURE

Dukes (1) states that "the reaction of the rumen content of the ox is always alkaline; the average is pH 8.89 (Gabriel)." He explains this constantly alkaline reaction on the basis of the addition of the highly alkaline saliva secreted by ruminants.

¹ The authors wish to express appreciation for the advice and assistance given by Dr. A. F. Schalk of the Veterinary College of the Ohio State University, who is also affiliated with the Animal Industry Department of this Station. Likewise, credit is due to Dr. C. H. Kick for timely suggestions at the beginning of this work. Dr. Kick now deceased, was formerly, associated with the Animal Industry Department of this Station, and later was head of the Department of Animal Husbandry of Colorado State College. We are indebted to Mr. Stanley Powers of our Station for drawing the graphs.