Which stomach feature is characteristic of the Golden (Syrian) hamster?

Which stomach feature is characteristic of the Golden (Syrian) hamster?

• A. 3 compartment stomach
• B. 2 compartment stomach
• C. Lacking a stomach
• D. Four-chamber stomach

Answer: (B)

The stomach of a Golden Syrian hamster is two-compartment, with a nonglandular forestomach and a glandular stomach. The forestomach stores and mixes food without secreting digestive enzymes, while the glandular stomach produces acid and digestive enzymes to process the food. This two-part arrangement is typical for small rodents. A three- or four-chamber stomach is found in ruminants, not hamsters, and saying the hamster lacks a stomach isn’t accurate.

The stomach of a Golden Syrian hamster is two-compartment, with a nonglandular forestomach and a glandular stomach. The forestomach stores and mixes food without secreting digestive enzymes, while the glandular stomach produces acid and digestive enzymes to process the food. This two-part arrangement is typical for small rodents. A three- or four-chamber stomach is found in ruminants, not hamsters, and saying the hamster lacks a stomach isn’t accurate.