Rumen microbiology, biotechnology and ruminant nutrition: the application of research findings to a complex microbial ecosystem.

Research on rumen microorganisms has contributed greatly to our understanding of anaerobic microbial ecosystems, and has also influenced feeding practices and nutritional modelling with ruminants. However, it can be argued that rumen microbiology has not yet fulfilled its true potential. Growth-promoting ionophores, antibiotics and microbial feed additives were introduced before their microbiological effects had been determined. A more pro-active role for the microbiologist was predicted with the advent of recombinant DNA technology. Whether ventures in molecular biology can be applied successfully to benefit nutrition and health is likely to depend on whether means can be found for maintaining new strains in vivo.