Correct Option
The correct option is Cow.
Explanation
The length of the small intestine in animals is directly correlated with their dietary habits. The complexity of the food consumed determines the time and surface area required for digestion and absorption. Specifically, the digestion of plant matter differs significantly from the digestion of meat due to the presence of cellulose.
Detailed Analysis
- Herbivores (e.g., Cow): Animals that consume grass and plant matter ingest large amounts of cellulose. Cellulose is a complex carbohydrate that is difficult to digest and requires the assistance of symbiotic microorganisms (bacteria) for fermentation. To ensure complete digestion and adequate absorption of nutrients, the food must remain in the alimentary canal for a longer duration. Consequently, herbivores possess a longer small intestine relative to their body size.
- Carnivores (e.g., Tiger, Eagle): These animals primarily consume meat. Meat is rich in proteins and fats, which are relatively easier and faster to digest compared to cellulose. Therefore, carnivores have a shorter small intestine.
- Amphibians (e.g., Frog): Adult frogs are carnivorous, feeding on insects and worms. Their digestive system is adapted to a meat-based diet, resulting in a comparatively shorter intestine than that of a herbivore of similar scale.
Key Takeaway
Herbivores have longer small intestines to facilitate the slow digestion of cellulose, whereas carnivores have shorter small intestines as meat is easier to digest.