Basic energy storage substances in animals

What is the primary source of energy for animals?

The primary source of energy for animals is carbohydrates, mainly glucose. Glucose is called the body’s fuel. The digestible carbohydrates in an animal’s diet are converted to glucose molecules through a series of catabolic chemical reactions.

How do animals store energy?

These nutrients are converted to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for short-term storage and use by all cells. Some animals store energy for slightly longer times as glycogen, and others store energy for much longer times in the form of triglycerides housed in specialized adipose tissues.

How do living organisms store energy?

Living organisms use two major types of energy storage. Energy-rich molecules such as glycogen and triglycerides store energy in the form of covalent chemical bonds. Cells synthesize such molecules and store them for later release of the energy.

How are energy substances stored?

Storage and utilization of energy substances involve two different controlling processes. In advanced animals, glucose is stored in the form of hepatic and muscle glycogen, and glycogen is re-used by phosphorolysis. Fatty acids are stored in the form of fat, especially hypodermic fat, and provide energy to the body through β-oxidation.

Are carbohydrates a source of energy for animals?

Carbohydrates are the major dietary source of energy for animals. In the plant cell, carbohydrates could be present in the cell content as sugar or starch, or they could be associated with the cell wall structure (e.g., cellulose).

Why are energy requirements and balance important in food-producing animals?

Energy requirement and balance are more important in food-producing animals with their need to synthesize nutrients (e.g., proteins, fat) for deposition into muscle, milk, and eggs. Carbohydrates are the major energy source in the diet of farm animals. Carbohydrates are the major source of energy in the animal’s diet.