The world's first cloned water buffalo has been born in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

The buffalo, born early Thursday morning, weighs 23 kilograms. Its heart rate, temperature and breathing were normal.

Scientists say the birth of the calf proves that China's somatic cell cloning technology is well-developed and could provide a great boost to cattle breeding in China. 

(CRI March 19, 2005)