The diet of many birds consists of hard seeds that need to be broken up for digestion. What part of the bird digestive system that is not found in many other vertebrates probably is responsible for this function?

Question

Biology

Anastasia Pace

20 September, 22:13

The diet of many birds consists of hard seeds that need to be broken up for digestion. What part of the bird digestive system that is not found in many other vertebrates probably is responsible for this function?

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Answers (1)

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Jorden Casey · Answer 1

Proventriculum and gizzard

Explanation:

In birds, the stomach is divided into two compartments: the proventriculum and the gizzard. These structures are less distinct in carnivorous species, and well-prominent in grain and seed-feeding species.

The proventriculum is a structure located between the lower esophagus and the gizzard. It is covered by a glanular mucous layer with secretory function and is therefore responsible for the secretion of enzymes and hydrochloric acid for digestion.

The gizzard is considered a muscular stomach, responsible for crushing and macerating food (as in chewing). It has a highly developed and strong musculature, resistant to the action of hydrochloric acid.