Rice Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.3, 132-139 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/rgg 134 herbivore insect abundance by 24.07% and reduce weed abundance by up to 67.62% (Wan et al., 2019). The presence of ducks further enhances weed control efficiency, significantly reducing weed density and biomass, which in turn supports higher rice productivity (Nayak et al., 2020). This natural pest and weed management reduces the need for chemical pesticides, contributing to more sustainable farming practices. The picture shows a variety of rice field water structure designs, including outer ditches, inner ditches, central ponds, and staggered ditch systems. These designs not only help regulate water flow, but also provide ample space for fish and ducks to move around, allowing them to effectively distribute in various areas of the rice field (Figure 1) (Ibrahim et al., 2023). 3.3 Improvements in soil conditions and root zone environment Rice-fish integrated systems also contribute to improved soil conditions and root zone environments, which are vital for healthy rice growth. The presence of aquatic species like fish and ducks enhances nutrient recycling and soil fertility. The continuous addition of organic matter from fish and duck activities improves soil nutrient levels, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for rice growth (Nayak et al., 2018). Additionally, these systems promote better soil structure and organic matter distribution, leading to enhanced soil health and increased rice yields (Lv et al., 2023). The dynamic interactions in these integrated systems create a more favorable root zone environment, supporting sustainable rice production (Wang et al., 2024). Figure 1 Different types of trenches that are utilized in the integration of rice and aquatic species include: (A) Perimeter, (B) Central Pond, (C) Lateral trench, (D) line-shaped (two equidistant transverses with a peripheral), (E) cross-shaped (crossed) (F) circular-shaped ones made up of cross (latticed trenches), (G) diagonal, (H) peripheral, and (I) Y-shaped (Adopted from Ibrahim et al., 2023)
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