Electron-Microscopic Investigation of the Flora of Sheep Alimentary Tract

Abstract

Digesta from different regions of the sheep alimentary tract have been examined using electron microscopy. Direct examination of digesta from the rumen has revealed the presence of a number of phages and of a large variety of bacteria differing considerably in their morphology. An atlas of electron micrographs of these bacteria has been presented. The presence of large numbers of bacterial cell walls ;n the rumen indicates that the breakdown of bacteria commences in this organ. The major sites of digestion of bacteria are in the abomasum and small intestine where there is a substantial removal and modification of bacteria.