This book brings together edited versions of the keynote review papers presented at the International Symposium on Ruminant Physiology (ISRP). Held every five years, the ISRP is the premier forum for the presentation and discussion of advances in our knowledge of the physiology of ruminant animals. The ninth ISRP was held in South Africa in October 1999. A definitive statement of current knowledge in this subject. Contributors are the leading international authorities from Europe, North America, South Africa and Australasia. The ISRP has an excellent reputation for quality papers.