Amylolytic activity in the rumen of the sheep

Abstract

1. Rumen contents of sheep given three different diets contained free bacterial α-amylase. The method of obtaining a cell-free rumen filtrate containing the enzyme is described.2. Amylase potency in the rumen was highest in the sheep given a diet of flaked maize, intermediate in that given a mixed diet of hay and concentrate and lowest in that given a diet of casein.3. The effect of rumen amylase on structural maize and potato starches has been investigated.4. Absence of amylase from sheep saliva was confirmed.5. Where flaked maize is fed, one of the organisms responsible for amylase production in the rumen of the sheep is Cl. butyricum.