The scientists were concerned that stopping the
methanogens from working might affect the digestion
of the ruminants and result in the animal being smaller.
However what they did find is that cutting down the
amount of methane an animal produces actually
boosts its growth. This is because the process of
methanogenesis uses energy which can result in a
small but significant loss of energy available to an animal.
Another group of researchers is looking to see
if adding certain food additives to the diet of cattle will
reduce the amount of methane they emit.