An overview of the structure and function of the major body systems in farm animals, emphasizing the relationship between anatomy and physiology.
Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology of Farm Animals
(Designed as quick‑reference study notes)
| Region | Key Structures | Primary Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Head | Skull, brain, sensory organs (eyes, ears, nose), oral cavity, teeth, tongue | Sensory perception, food intake, communication |
| Neck | Cervical vertebrae, trachea, esophagus, major blood vessels, lymph nodes | Passage of air, food, blood flow to head |
| Thorax | Ribs, sternum, diaphragm, heart, lungs, thymus | Respiration, circulation, immune development |
| Abdomen | Stomach compartments (rumen, reticulum, omasum, abomasum in ruminants; simple stomach in swine/poultry), liver, spleen, pancreas, intestines, kidneys, urinary bladder | Digestion, metabolism, detoxification, excretion |
| Pelvis & Hindlimbs | Pelvic girdle, hind‑quarter muscles, reproductive organs, urinary tract | Locomotion, reproduction, elimination |
| Skin & Appendages | Epidermis, dermis, hair/feather/coat, hooves/claws, mammary glands | Protection, thermoregulation, sensory input, milk production |
| Species | Stomach Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats) | 4‑compartment (rumen, reticulum, omasum, abomasum) | Fermentation of fibrous plant material; microbial synthesis of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) |
| Swine | Simple monogastric | Enzyme‑driven digestion of mixed diet; high capacity for starch digestion |
| Poultry | Simple monogastric with crop & gizzard | Crop stores feed; gizzard mechanically grinds particles; rapid transit time |