What volume of vegetation must a mature Western Gorilla consume daily to meet its energy demands?
Answer
An estimated 40 pounds
The sheer energetic requirements of large primates like the mature Western Gorilla necessitate the consumption of an impressive quantity of plant matter daily, estimated to be around 40 pounds. This large volume is necessary because much of this intake—including stems, leaves, and bark—is high in cellulose and lower in readily accessible sugars compared to fruit, demanding bulk processing to achieve caloric sufficiency.
Related Questions
What feeder classification describes the Western Gorilla based on its nearly total reliance on plants?Which specific spongy plant tissue is highlighted as a particularly important nutrition source for the Western Gorilla?What volume of vegetation must a mature Western Gorilla consume daily to meet its energy demands?What structural components must gorillas rely on to fill caloric gaps when fruit production decreases seasonally?During seasons when fruit is readily available, what percentage of a Western Gorilla's total intake can fruit constitute?What characteristic describes the typical foraging style gorillas employ while moving through the forest?What ecological designation is given to the Western Gorilla due to its consumption patterns affecting local vegetation structure?What specific challenging materials must a wild gorilla's digestive system be capable of handling during periods of low fruit availability?What primary method do Western Gorillas use to fulfill their hydration needs in the forest?What commercial food item is used in accredited zoos to supplement fresh produce and ensure nutritional completeness year-round?