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Scientists are measuring the belch-power of sheep to try and combat
global warming.
Tests on one particular flock have revealed huge variations in
the amount of methane belched out.
Researchers hope the results will help them change microbes in
sheep which produce the gas.
The study is being carried out in Palmerston North by four scientists
from AgResearch.
Dr Keith Joblin, who is heading the team, says it could be possible
to cut the amount of methane produced by sheep and cattle by 30%.
He said: "Because grass is more difficult to digest, more
methane is produced. They belch it out, they don't fart it - 90%
comes out the front, not the back."
According to the New Zealand Herald, the sheep are fitted with
special collars which detect the amount of methane in their belches.
Methane released by the animals accounts for almost half of local
greenhouse emissions which contribute to global warming.
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