Rice–Fish–Duck Symbiosis System Or Sustainable Agriculture In Action

Last week we posted an article on the rice–crab coculture / symbiosis system in China as an example of sustainable agriculture. A Chinese reader pointed out to us that they also apply a rice–fish–duck symbiosis system, a system practiced for nearly a millennium in China’s Congjiang County.

This method integrates the cultivation of glutinous rice with the rearing of fish and ducks within the same paddy fields, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem.

Rooted in the traditions of the Dong people, this symbiotic farming method does reflect a profound understanding of ecological harmony and resource efficiency, passed down through generations.

Below is a video from CGTN showing rice–fish–duck symbiosis system in practice.

Ecological & Economic Benefits

In a rice–fish–duck symbiosis system, rice plants offer shade and organic matter, fostering a conducive environment for fish and ducks. The fish and ducks, in turn, consume pests and weeds, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides. Their activities aerate the soil and their waste acts as a natural fertilizer, enhancing soil fertility and promoting robust rice growth.

Farmers benefit from diversified income streams: high-quality glutinous rice, fish, and ducks. The market value of these organically produced goods often surpasses that of conventionally farmed products. Additionally, the system lowers costs associated with fertilizers, pesticides, and labor, as natural processes supplant these inputs.

Modern agricultural practices and urbanization pose threats to this traditional system. To safeguard the rice–fish–duck symbiosis system, initiatives focus on designating protected areas, establishing research bases, and promoting eco-tourism. Innovations in farming techniques aim to adapt the system to contemporary contexts while maintaining its core principles.

Limited Adoption Outside Asia Of Rice–Fish–Duck Symbiosis System

The Rice–Fish–Duck Symbiosis System, while traditional to Asia, has seen limited adoption in Europe or elsewhere. However, integrated farming practices, such as duck–fish and duck–rice systems, have been implemented in parts of Central Europe. For instance, post-World War II, fish–duck farming expanded rapidly in Central Europe to address animal protein shortages.

In these systems, ducks are raised alongside fish ponds or rice fields, where their droppings serve as nutrients for fish or rice, and they help control pests and weeds. While the comprehensive Rice–Fish–Duck system is not widespread outside Asia, these integrated practices reflect similar ecological principles.

The limited adoption of the full Rice–Fish–Duck system in Europe is due to differences in agricultural practices, climate, and crop preferences. Nonetheless, the principles of integrated farming continue to inspire sustainable agriculture initiatives across the continent.

Polycultures in Europe

In Europe, various integrated farming systems, or polycultures, have been developed to enhance sustainability and productivity. Notable examples include:

Agroforestry Systems

Agroforestry combines trees with crops or livestock, creating diverse ecosystems that improve biodiversity, soil health, and resource efficiency. In Switzerland, traditional orchards, known as Hochstammobstgärten, integrate high-stem fruit trees with crops or pasture, promoting ecological balance and economic resilience.

Silvopasture

This practice integrates trees with livestock grazing, offering shade and forage for animals while enhancing carbon sequestration and biodiversity. The dehesa and montado systems in Spain and Portugal exemplify silvopasture, where oak trees coexist with grazing livestock, supporting diverse flora and fauna.

Alley Cropping

This method involves planting rows of trees or shrubs alongside crops, enhancing biodiversity and soil fertility. In the UK, alley cropping systems have been implemented to diversify production and improve ecosystem services.

Polyculture Market Gardening

Small-scale farms cultivate multiple crop species together, optimizing space and resources. The Polyculture Project in Bulgaria researches and promotes such practices, aiming to enhance biodiversity and resilience in temperate European climates.

Blending Traditional Knowledge With Innovative Approaches

The rice–fish–duck symbiosis system exemplifies a harmonious integration of agriculture and ecology, offering valuable insights for sustainable farming practices. While this specific system is not widely adopted in Europe, the continent demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture through various integrated practices.

These include agroforestry, silvopasture, and mixed farming systems, which blend traditional knowledge with innovative approaches to create resilient and productive landscapes.