Termites: A potentially large source of atmospheric methane, carbon-dioxide, and molecular-hydrogen
Zimmerman, P. R., Greenberg, J. P., Wandiga, S. O., & Crutzen, P. J. (1982). Termites: A potentially large source of atmospheric methane, carbon-dioxide, and molecular-hydrogen. Science, 218, 563-565. doi:10.1126/science.218.4572.563
Termites may emit large quantities of methane, carbon dioxide, and molecular hydrogen into the atmosphere. Global annual emissions calculated from laboratory measurements could reach 1.5 x 10¹⁴ grams of methane and 5 x 10¹⁶ grams of carbon dioxide. As much as 2 x 10¹⁴ grams of molecular hydrogen ... Show moreTermites may emit large quantities of methane, carbon dioxide, and molecular hydrogen into the atmosphere. Global annual emissions calculated from laboratory measurements could reach 1.5 x 10¹⁴ grams of methane and 5 x 10¹⁶ grams of carbon dioxide. As much as 2 x 10¹⁴ grams of molecular hydrogen may also be produced. Field measurements of methane emissions from two termite nests in Guatemala corroborated the laboratory results. The largest emissions should occur in tropical areas disturbed by human activities. Show less
