Freshwater Crayfish in the Ancient Town

Freshwater Crayfish in the Ancient Town

　　The Ancient Town Village in Jiyukou Town, Qianjiang City, Hubei Province, is located on the northwestern edge of Qianjiang, bordering Jingzhou and Jingmen. It covers 4,560 mu of arable land. The village features unique topography and landforms characteristic of hilly regions, and it is also the highest-altitude village in Qianjiang. Adapting to local conditions, the residents have made the most of the area’s low-lying terrain and abundance of lakes by developing a thriving “water-based” economy. Starting in 2000, they boldly explored the “rice-crayfish rotation” model, transforming low-lying, idle winter fields into treasure troves. In 2006, the “rice-crayfish rotation” model was included in the provincial government’s “No. 1 Document” and vigorously promoted, propelling Hubei to become the global hub of crayfish farming and earning it the reputation of “the world’s crayfish look to Qianjiang.”

　　　　The “rice-crayfish rotation” model involves raising Procambarus clarkii crayfish in rice paddies while cultivating a single season of mid-season rice. During the rice growing period, the crayfish and rice coexist and grow together in the fields. The microorganisms and pests produced during rice growth provide ample food for the crayfish, while the crayfish excrement serves as high-quality organic fertilizer for the rice. Within this mutually beneficial biological cycle, both the quality of the crayfish and the rice are ensured, producing a type of rice that is close to being naturally ecological.

　　　　The “rice-crayfish rotation” model is expected to be extended to all crayfish-producing areas in Qianjiang. “Green ecological rice” will become another prominent brand of Qianjiang’s distinctive agriculture. Its products have been certified as pollution-free by the Hubei Provincial Department of Agriculture, and the project has been designated for promotion by both provincial and municipal authorities.