Ruminants fed on dried grasses are given feed supplements to

Ruminants, such as cows and sheep, have a unique digestive system that allows them to break down and extract nutrients from plant materials like grass. However, dried grasses may not provide all the necessary nutrients that ruminants need to stay healthy and grow. That's why ruminants fed on dried grasses are given feed supplements.

Feed supplements are additional foods or nutrients that are added to the animal's diet to make sure they are getting all the essential nutrients they need. These supplements can include things like grains, protein sources, vitamins, and minerals.

The purpose of giving feed supplements to ruminants fed on dried grasses is to provide them with any nutrients that may be deficient in the grass. Option D, "provide deficient nutrients," is the correct answer. By giving the ruminants these supplements, it ensures that they have a balanced diet and receive all the necessary nutrients they need for growth, reproduction, and overall health.

Options A, B, and C are not the correct answers. While it is important for ruminants to have access to an adequate water supply (Option A), feed supplements are not given to increase water intake. Additionally, feed supplements do not provide bulk to the feed (Option B) because dried grasses already provide the necessary fiber for ruminants. Lastly, feed supplements do not reduce microbial activity (Option C), as microbes in the rumen of ruminants are essential for digestion and nutrient utilization.

In summary, ruminants fed on dried grasses are given feed supplements to provide them with any nutrients that may be deficient in the grass. This helps to ensure that the animals have a balanced diet and receive all the necessary nutrients they need for growth and overall health.