reticulum
Pronunciation
/ɹɛtˈɪkjʊləm/

Definition & Meaning of "reticulum"in English

Reticulum
01

a compartment of the ruminant stomach that features a honeycomb-like structure and aids in the breakdown and fermentation of ingested plant material

Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Composition
Compound
Countable
Plural form
reticula

What is "reticulum"?

The reticulum, also known as the "honeycomb," is a chamber within the digestive system of ruminant animals, such as cows, sheep, and goats. It is one of the four compartments of their specialized stomach, along with the rumen, omasum, and abomasum. The reticulum has a unique structure characterized by a honeycomb-like network of ridges and compartments, which provides mechanical assistance in the breakdown of ingested plant material. It acts as a storage and fermentation chamber, allowing the microbial population within the reticulum to break down fibrous food particles through fermentation and microbial digestion.

02

any fine network (especially one in the body composed of cells or blood vessels)

03

a small constellation in the southern hemisphere near Dorado and Hydrus

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