​Ruminal abundances of Lactobacilli are greater in cattle fed a high starch diet. Image courtesy of Drovers.

Lactobacillus spp. in the rumen can grow quickly when the rumen pH is low, causing rapid production of lactic acid, also contributing to lowering the rumen pH, and ultimately leading to health complications such as acidosis. Image courtesy of Simme Valley.

​Beyond the rumen, although highly dominant and indicative of a healthy reproductive tract in humans, Lactobacillus abundances are low in the bovine reproductive tract​. Image courtesy of SciMAT/Photo Researchers, Inc.

Beyond the rumen, recent studies suggest the administration of Lactobacilli to the vagina of cows prior to calving may decrease the prevalence of postpartum metritis. Image courtesy of Angus Australia.