Introducing Fish in Paddy Fields Increases Profits, Finds Chinese Study
November 25, 2011 (By Oryza News)
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A six-year long study in China found that farming fish alongside rice significantly reduces pesticides and fertilizer costs for rice growers, besides providing them additional profits from selling fish. Researchers in China have concluded a study of a traditional farming method called rice-fish (RF) co-cultures.
In the study, researchers introduced fish -- the local delicacy carp -- into flooded paddy fields. Results showed that the technique required about 60% less pesticide and nearly about 25% less fertilizer, saving farmers money.
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The use of fish in paddy fields also reduced weeds. The benefits cut both ways as the shade of the rice plants kept the water cool for fish to thrive even in tropical climates.
Researchers say farmers stand to gain from this symbiotic relationship between fish and rice plants, especially “in areas where land and water are limited for developing both rice and fish production.”
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