A staple food for over half of the world’s population faces many challenges. The sustainability of rice is threatened—and with it, the wellbeing of those who depend on it.

Traditional intensive rice monocultures, prevalent in many countries, are not only susceptible to climate change-induced disruptions but also contribute significantly to environmental degradation. However, an ancient yet underutilized practice offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to contemporary farming practices.

Rice-animal co-culture (RAC) is an innovative and age-old agricultural practice that involves cultivating rice in paddies alongside various aquatic animals such as fish, shrimp, ducks, and crayfish. This symbiotic approach harnesses the synergies between rice crops and aquatic livestock.

A well-choreographed dance between farming and aquatic life, RAC benefits ecosystems and the communities they support. The presence of ducks in rice paddies serves as an ingenious pest management solution. With their voracious appetite for insects, ducks provide natural, chemical-free pest control, reducing the need for harmful pesticides. This ecological balance safeguards both the rice crop and aquatic life.

While foraging for insects, ducks also assist in weed control. Their paddling movements help churn the soil, disrupting weed growth and other unwanted vegetation. This not only benefits the rice plants but also creates a healthier environment for fish and crayfish.

Meanwhile, the incorporation of fish into rice paddies initiates a symbiotic relationship. Fish excreta is a natural fertilizer, enhancing the soil and providing essential nutrients for rice growth. This nutrient cycling, further enriched by the organic matter of ducks and crayfish, creates a dynamic ecosystem within the paddies. Integrating fish and crayfish into rice paddies diversifies the farm’s output by providing an additional source of protein and income for farmers while contributing to a more sustainable and economically viable farming model.

The economic benefits of RAC systems present a compelling case for farmers, with the potential to significantly enhance their earnings. A comprehensive study revealed that the average net income of farmers more than doubled from $1,019 US to $2,212 US per hectare annually after switching from conventional rice monoculture systems to RAC systems.

Read the full article about sustainable food production by Abdullahi Lawal at Nonprofit Quarterly .