Which type of diet is supported by ruminants due to their unique digestive system?

Ruminants are a specialized group of mammals that includes animals like cows, sheep, and deer, which possess a unique digestive system designed to break down fibrous plant material. Their stomachs are divided into multiple compartments, typically four, which allows them to effectively ferment and digest cellulose found in plant cell walls. This fermentation process is facilitated by a population of microorganisms, including bacteria and protozoa, that help break down complex carbohydrates.

Herbivorous diets, consisting mainly of grasses, leaves, and other plant materials, are well-suited to ruminants because their digestive system is optimized for extracting nutrients from these sources. The ability to regurgitate and re-chew their food, known as "cud," further enhances their digestive efficiency, allowing for better breakdown of tough plant fibers.

In contrast, the other types of diets listed—carnivorous, omnivorous, and detritivorous—are not supported by ruminants due to their anatomical and physiological adaptations, which primarily cater to the processing of plant matter rather than animal proteins or decomposing organic material. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the natural dietary preference of ruminants for plant-based foods.