Question

Why are small intestines longer in herbivores as compared to carnivores?

[0.8 Mark]

• A. The process of digestion in herbivores is slow compared to that in carnivores.
• B. Cellulose takes more time to get digested as compared to meat.
• C. Herbivores do curdling of food.
• D. Herbivores have less efficient enzyme secretions.

Answer 1

The correct option is B Cellulose takes more time to get digested as compared to meat.

Herbivores eat grasses which are rich in cellulose. It takes more time to get digested. So, herbivores have longer small intestines. Carnivores, on the other hand, eat meat which is easier to digest. Hence, carnivores have a shorter small intestine as compared to herbivores.