Rumen Function   Rumen Function  The rumen is essentially a
fermentation chamber where plant fiber is broken down into
smaller digestible components by bacteria and other microbes.
The rumen cannot function correctly without a healthy and active
microbial population. If the feed does not contain the right
balance of ingredients, the microbial community will be thrown
out of balance. For instance, if the diet contains too much
rapidly fermentable carbohydrate, the population of lactate-
producing bacteria will rise. Consequently the pH of the rumen
will drop, decreasing the number and activity of lactate-
utilizing bacteria. This can result in a further drop in pH and
acidosis. This is just one possible result of an imbalanced
microbial community in the rumen.  To feed cattle properly you
must feed the rumen microbes. They need the proper mixture of
fiber, energy, nitrogen and water. Particle size is also
important because long fibers are essential for development of a
functional rumen mat. The mat helps retain