A model for exploring lactic acidosis: 1. Model description

Incorporating our experimental data with information in the literature, a computer model was developed using the program STELLA 11 to study acid production and absorption, to predict the concentrations of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and lactic acid as well as pH, and to control acid-base balance during rumen fermentation in sheep. he features of this model are based on authors' experimental data and these data have been supplemented by and checked against a wide range of additional information described in the scientific literature. The rate of buffering capacity and the relative rates of absorption of VFAs and lactic acid from the rumen were used to control lactic acid build up that are novel of this model. This model is a first step in the building of a rumen model suitable for exploring lactic acidosis.