Question

Small intestine in herbivores is longer than in carnivores because

• A. Digestion of cellulose takes a longer time
• B. Digestive juices of herbivores are not so functional
• C. Most of the herbivores swallow food
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A Digestion of cellulose takes a longer time

Cellulose is a polysaccharide which has strong glycosidic bonds. Its digestion takes a longer time. Hence, herbivores who eat grass/green leafy vegetables need a longer small intestine to allow complete digestion of cellulose. Carnivores animals cannot digest cellulose, hence, they have a shorter intestine.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.