Carnivores

Definition

Carnivores are animals that primarily consume other animals for their nutritional needs. They have specialized digestive systems adapted to process meat efficiently.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carnivores possess sharp teeth and claws for hunting and tearing flesh.
2. Their stomachs contain high levels of hydrochloric acid to break down protein-rich diets.
3. The small intestine of a carnivore is typically shorter than that of herbivores or omnivores, reflecting their diet.
4. Obligate carnivores rely entirely on animal flesh for their nutritional requirements, such as cats.
5. Facultative carnivores primarily eat meat but can digest non-animal foods occasionally.

Review Questions

• What adaptations do carnivores have in their digestive systems that facilitate the digestion of meat?
• How does the small intestine length of a carnivore compare to that of an herbivore?
• What is the difference between obligate and facultative carnivores?

Related terms

Herbivores:

Animals that primarily consume plant material for their nutritional needs.

Omnivores:

Animals that can digest both plant and animal matter.

Hypercarnivores: Carnivores whose diet consists almost exclusively (more than 70%) of meat.