Occurrence and diurnal population fluctuations of the ruminal protozoan Microcetus lappus.

A series of experiments with bison and cattle were conducted to obtain information on the relatively uncommon ruminal protozoan Microcetus lappus. Although M. lappus is a holotrich, diurnal changes in concentrations indicate that it follows a cycle unlike most other holotrichs, decreasing shortly after feed is offered and then gradually increasing over time. Concentrations of M. lappus varied widely among animals, exceeding 50% of the total protozoan population in some cattle. In bison, Microcetus concentrations averaged 2% of the protozoan population. Dietary protein and energy levels apparently did not influence Microcetus numbers. The highest concentrations of M. lappus were found in the reticulum, whereas the lowest numbers occurred in the mid-dorsal sac.