Monoterpenoid Content of Pygmy Rabbit Stomach Ingesta

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Abstract
During mid-Jan. 1979, ingesta samples were collected from the stomachs of 10 wild pygmy rabbits. The ingesta samples were analyzed for big sagebrush [Artemisia tridentata] and monoterpenoid content. Big sagebrush comprised 97% of the material in the ingesta and was the only forage containing monoterpenoids. Monoterpenoid content of the ingesta was only 23% of expected levels. This major loss (77%) of monoterpenoids may occur during mastication. Loss of monoterpenoids from mastication by pygmy rabbits was measured in an airtight rabbit chamber. Twelve times more monoterpenoids were recovered during the rabbit feeding trials (big sagebrush and rabbit) than during the control tests (big sagebrush only). [The antimicrobial properties of sagebrush monoterpenoids have been postulated to contribute to the digestive disturbances of ruminants which consume this plant.].