User:Plg1399/Cecotrope

The process of cecotrophy can have irregularities. An animal can fail to assimilate nutrients (vitamins, amino acids) synthesized by microorganisms in the cecotrope. The balanced ecosystem of microorganisms inhabiting the cecotrope depends on the gastrointestinal (GI) system movement of the organism alongside its diet. GI tract stasis or improper diet can disrupt the pH of the cecum, leading to the increase or decrease in certain microorganisms. This disruption of the population balance of microflora can lead to stress, pain, and premature death of the organism.