What is the function of an anti-coagulant in certain rodenticides?

Anticoagulants in rodenticides serve the critical function of preventing normal blood clotting. These compounds work by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver, which are essential for the blood coagulation process. When rodents ingest these anticoagulant rodenticides, their blood loses the ability to clot properly, which can lead to internal bleeding and, ultimately, death. This mechanism is particularly effective, as it allows the poison to act over several days, enabling the affected rodent to continue feeding and further ingest the toxin before it succumbs to its effects. This delayed action is beneficial for controlling rodent populations, as it reduces the likelihood of other animals associating bait with negative effects.

Other options, such as promoting blood clotting or enhancing food digestion, do not align with the function of anticoagulants. These substances specifically target the coagulation process, and their primary objective is to disrupt it rather than support bodily functions like digestion or appetite, which are unrelated to the intended action of rodenticides.