Ruminant stomachs have four compartments: the rumen, the reticulum, the omasum and the abomasum.
The rumen is the largest stomach compartment and consists of several sacs (dorsal, ventral, caudodorsal and caudoventral sacs)
The reticulum lies close to the heart (caudal to the diaphragm). The tissues in the reticulum form a network similar to a honeycomb.
The omasum is a bean-like structure in the small ruminants, containing leaves of tissue. It absorbs water and other substances from digestive contents.
The abomasum is the only compartment lined with glands. These glands release hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes, needed to breakdown feeds. The abomasum is similar to a mono-gastric stomach.
