RESEARCHERS in Armidale are working to discover new ways to breed more efficient low-methane emitting sheep.
Department of Primary Industries scientist Hutton Oddy said the research would look at how variation in digestive function affects methane emissions in sheep.
“The results of this research will benefit Australian sheep producers by improving productivity and reducing methane emissions,” Dr Oddy said.
“The three-year research has recently commenced with ewes being tested at the DPI Beef Industries Centre under a range of procedures to measure methane production.
“Measurements have been made on sheep aged 12 months (before joining), while pregnant and when lactating.”
