Rice-fish farming systems in farmer's fields at Ubonrachathani Province [Thailand]
1988
Chalerm Sukapong | Manat Leechawengwongs | Supachai Tangchoopong (Department of Agriculture, Bangkok (Thailand). Farming systems, Research Institute)
Rice-fish culture is an appropriate practice for many rice farmers, especially small scale farmers. It can be carried out by rainfed farmers, and those with other severe limitations, and is especially useful in addressing protein shortages. Rice-fish culture has considerable potential for improving the quality of life of the rural poor. The practice frequently favorably affects other activities, having synergistic effects on the productivity of the farmer. Normally, three species have been raised together in our experiments : Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), carp (Cyprinus carpio), and Puntius groniontus. These are normally released at 3-5 cm, length. Appropriate species compositions and stocking densities depend on circumstances. Respective ratios of 1:2:2 and 2:5:3, at total densities of 500/rai to 600/rai are given as central figures which can be adjusted in any way. Fish should be released into the field after transplanting. Five to six months after releasing, production can reach 30 Kg/rai. Various rice varieties have been tried Sanpatong, RD.6, Dok mali 105, and Leuang-boon-ma are a few examples. Yield average 10 to 15 percent higher than in fields without fish. Total fish and rice production per rai, in one study increased by 735 bath, on average.
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