Question

In herbivorous animals, appendix helps in digestion of .........

• A. cellulose
• B. glycogen
• C. polypeptides
• D. lactose

Hint:

In herbivorous animals, the appendix is crucial for digesting tough plant material, especially cellulose. It houses bacteria that help with fermentation processes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the role of the appendix.
The appendix in herbivorous animals is involved in the digestion of cellulose. It acts as a site for the fermentation of cellulose, which is difficult to digest. The bacteria in the appendix help in breaking down cellulose, which is a major component of plant cell walls.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) cellulose: Correct. The appendix helps in the digestion of cellulose in herbivores, as they rely on microbial fermentation to break down plant material.
(B) glycogen: Incorrect. Glycogen is a form of carbohydrate stored in animals, but it is not digested by the appendix.
(C) polypeptides: Incorrect. Polypeptides are proteins, and the digestion of proteins mainly occurs in the stomach and small intestine, not the appendix.
(D) lactose: Incorrect. Lactose is a sugar found in milk, and it is digested in the small intestine with the help of lactase enzyme.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) cellulose, as the appendix in herbivorous animals assists in the breakdown of cellulose through microbial fermentation.