The large intestine extends from the ileum of the small intestine to the anus. It absorbs water from the ingesta and stores faeces prior to defeacation. Every species has a large microbial population living in the large intestine, which is of particular importance to the hindgut fermenters.
+
The large intestine extends from the [[Ileum - Anatomy & Physiology|ileum]] of the [[Small Intestines - Anatomy & Physiology|small intestine]] to the anus. It absorbs water from the ingesta and stores faeces prior to defeacation. Every species has a large microbial population living in the large intestine, which is of particular importance to the [[Hindgut Fermenters - Anatomy & Physiology|hindgut fermenters]]. For this reason, hindgut fermenters have a more complex large intestine with highly specialised regions for fermentation.