Colonic absorption and secretion of fluids, electrolytes and organic acids in East African wild ruminants

In sixteen species of wild ruminants colonic absorption of fluids averaged 48% of the fluids entering the large bowel. Values ranged from 26% (steenbok) to 65% (gerenuk). Absorption of sodium, potassium, chloride and organic acids were variable between species. Colonic absorption of potassium ions were found to be related to diet selection and body weight of the animals. colonic absorption of volatile fatty acids were significantly greater in browsers (28.4 mmol/l) than grazers (9.6 mmol/l). The African buffalo are the only species of wild ruminants not forming a faecal pellet; colonic functions were not different from those species forming faecal pellets.