1.Free-floating in the liquid phase
maybe up to 50% of bacteria in rumen are free floating
Feed on solubles released by attached cells
2. Associated with feed particles
Loosely associated with feed particles
Firmly adhered to feed particles
Up to 75% of bacteria associated with feed particles
Do most of the initial digestion of feed particles
3. Associated with rumen epithelium
Similarities and differences from bacteria in the rumen fluid
Suggested functions -Scavenging O2, tissue recycling, digest urea
4. Other
Attached to surface of protozoa and fungi
Engulfed in protozoa