biology hwk...why do herbivores have such a large loss of energy in their faeces?...?

Question

why do herbivores such as the bullock have such a large loss of energy in their faeces?

Answer 1

Probably because many herbivores cannot efficiently digest cellulose, which is a carbohydrate, and is the structural component of plant cell walls.

Ruminants, such as cows, camels, etc. have specially-adapted stomachs, with symbiotic bacteria, which *can* digest cellulose (breaking it down into sugars usable by the animal).
Many other herbivores, however, cannot do this, and rely on other carbohydrates such as sugars and starch, which are also present in plants. Therefore they loose-out on the potential energy source of cellulose in their food. It just passes through, and out in their faeces.

Answer 2

What do you mean by large loss of energy? Because it comes out warm?