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==The structure of the donkey’s gut==

==The structure of the donkey’s gut==

The structure and function of the donkey’s gut is remarkably similar to that of the [[Hindgut Fermenters - Horse - Anatomy & Physiology|horse]], with no obvious physical features that account for its superior efficiency. The intestine of the donkey is ~24 metres long and has a total maximal capacity of ~160 litres. However, the total volume of gut contents rarely exceeds a third of the maximal capacity. Starting at the mouth, ingested

The structure and function of the donkey’s gut is remarkably similar to that of the [[Equine Alimentary System  - Anatomy & Physiology|horse]], with no obvious physical features that account for its superior efficiency. The intestine of the donkey is ~24 metres long and has a total maximal capacity of ~160 litres. However, the total volume of gut contents rarely exceeds a third of the maximal capacity. Starting at the mouth, ingested

food passes via the oesophagus to the stomach (~9% of total gut capacity), small intestine (~30% of total capacity), caecum (~16% of total capacity), colon (~38% of total capacity) and rectum (~7% of total capacity) to the anus where, after 24 to 35 hours, it is evacuated as faeces.

food passes via the oesophagus to the stomach (~9% of total gut capacity), small intestine (~30% of total capacity), caecum (~16% of total capacity), colon (~38% of total capacity) and rectum (~7% of total capacity) to the anus where, after 24 to 35 hours, it is evacuated as faeces.