Final answer:
The polygastric digestive system, found in ruminants, differs from a monogastric system by having multiple stomach chambers for microbial fermentation of complex plant fibers before food is enzymatically digested and nutrients are absorbed.
Step-by-step explanation:
A polygastric digestive system, in contrast to the monogastric system outlined in the chart provided, includes multiple stomach chambers. Ruminants, such as cows and sheep, have a polygastric or rumen digestive system consisting of four compartments: the rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum. In this system, digestion begins with the mouth, where food is chewed and mixed with saliva, as in monogastric animals. However, chewed food first enters the rumen, where it is fermented by bacteria that break down complex plant fibers. The food then moves to the reticulum and omasum, where smaller particles are further digested and water is absorbed. Finally, the abomasum functions similar to the monogastric stomach, releasing juices to break down food into small pieces before it proceeds to the small intestine for nutrient absorption and then to the large intestine for water absorption and waste elimination.
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