Exploring the Integration of Rice and Aquatic Species: Insights from Global and National Experiences

Abstract

The objective of this article is to review the historical development of rice–aquatic species (RASp) integration and analyze the factors that affect its performance. Compared to rice monoculture, the integration of the rice–aquatic species system has a more significant impact on farm production, income, land (L), water use efficiency (WUE), net revenue, and labor use efficiency (LBUE) reduction. Although concurrent and alternate cultivations of rice–aquatic species increase unit water efficiency, concurrent cultivation requires 26% more water than monoculture. Furthermore, RASp farming promotes environmentally-friendly rice cultivation by reducing the use of pesticides (insecticides and herbicides), decreasing CH4 emissions by approximately 14.8–22.1%, and enhancing water quality. These findings suggest that fish integration in rice fields could be integrated into extensive aquaculture. Finally, global cooperation is necessary to transfer knowledge about this technology, particularly from China, and more research is needed to evaluate the effects of rice–aquatic species integration in the context of climate change and practical water use efficiency. Additionally, a robust development program at the national and global levels, with regulatory and non-administrative bodies’ guidance and strategy, is needed to embrace the expansion of the rice–aquatic species practice.

Farm Household Vulnerability Due to Land and Forest Fire in Peatland Areas in South Sumatra

“…In certain regions of China, agrosilvofishery practices are implemented to improve sustainable land use and enhance agricultural productivity. Examples include integrating aquaculture with wetland agriculture or incorporating fish production in rice fields [49][50][51]. Agrosilvofishery practices are also promoted in Costa Rica as part of sustainable agricultural systems in which combining agricultural activities with reforestation efforts and fish production is encouraged [52].…”

Isolation and Screening of Proteolytic Bacteria from Rice-Fish Farming System Sediments

“…This system is highly effective and efficient in rice fields with sufficient water availability throughout the year, and the dynamic interaction associated forms a unique ecosystem. Fish activity in ponds acts as a biocontrol agent in reducing pest and weed attacks on rice plants [2]. Meanwhile, rice plants provide a protective shelter for fish during high water temperatures, aiding in the reduction of ammonia concentrations in water, and enhancing nitrogen solubility in sediments [3].…”