Core Insights - The integrated rice-fish farming model utilizes ecological principles such as mutual benefits and resource complementarity to enhance rice paddy ecosystems, allowing for the simultaneous cultivation of rice and aquaculture, thereby increasing economic benefits and improving product quality and safety [1][2][4] Summary by Categories Overview of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming - Integrated rice-fish farming is a modern ecological circular agriculture model aimed at stabilizing rice production and promoting fishery development, building on traditional rice paddy aquaculture practices [2][4] Scale and Growth - Since the 14th Five-Year Plan, the integrated rice-fish farming industry has seen significant growth, with the farming area expanding steadily and production levels increasing [4][5] - In 2024, the total area for integrated rice-fish farming is projected to reach 46.05 million acres, a year-on-year increase of 2.6% [4][5] - The production of rice is expected to be approximately 23 million tons, while aquatic products are projected at 4.4336 million tons, representing increases of 500,000 tons and 267,100 tons respectively compared to 2023 [5] Regional Distribution - The integrated rice-fish farming is predominantly concentrated in major rice-producing regions such as Hubei, Anhui, and Sichuan [7][8] - Hubei province leads with an area of 8.847 million acres, followed by Anhui with 8.076 million acres [8] Farming Models - The most prevalent model is the rice-shrimp model, covering about 26 million acres, which accounts for 56.46% of the total integrated rice-fish farming area [10] - The rice-fish model is the second largest, with nearly 14 million acres, representing 30% of the total area [10] - The rice-crab model follows with approximately 3 million acres, making up 6.51% of the total area [10] Future Trends - The integrated rice-fish farming sector is expected to continue expanding, transitioning from rapid growth to a focus on high-quality development [12] - Innovations in technology and farming practices are anticipated, with an emphasis on local adaptation and diversification [12] - The integration of various agricultural sectors, including production, processing, and marketing, is expected to deepen, leading to a more comprehensive industry chain [12]