Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class.
Professor: Today we're going to talk about an unlikely ally in the fight against climate change: the lowly dung beetle. Yes, I know it sounds odd, but these insects play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. When dung beetles bury animal waste, they aerate the soil and recycle nutrients, which boosts plant growth. But more recently, researchers have discovered a surprising benefit: they can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. You see, when livestock dung is left on the surface, it breaks down anaerobically and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By quickly burying the dung, dung beetles reduce the time it's exposed to conditions that produce methane. In fact, one study found that dung beetles can cut methane emissions from cattle pastures by up to 40 percent. Now, some scientists are even exploring ways to introduce dung beetles into cattle farms to combat climate change. It's a simple, natural solution that's been right under our noses—or rather, under our feet—all along.
❓ 質問 According to the professor, what is one surprising benefit of dung beetles?
A. They help aerate the soil, which increases plant growth.
B. They reduce methane emissions from livestock waste.
C. They recycle nutrients, improving soil fertility.
D. They break down waste faster, reducing pasture odor.
✅ 正解
They reduce methane emissions from livestock waste.
TOEFL Listening Tips
Skim the questions first to predict the content
Watch for signal words in lectures and conversations (however, actually, in fact)
For main idea questions, focus on the beginning; for detail questions, focus on examples and data
For attitude questions, pay attention to the speaker's tone and word choice
Take notes on keywords; don't try to write down every word
