Paddy field

Paddy Field

A paddy field is a flooded parcel of arable land used for growing semiaquatic crops, most notably rice and taro. It originates from the Neolithic rice-farming cultures of the Yangtze River basin in southern China, associated with pre-Austronesian and Hmong-Mien cultures. It was spread in prehistoric times by the Austronesian expansion to Island Southeast Asia, Madagascar, Melanesia, Micronesia, Polynesia, and Indian Ocean islands. The technology was also acquired by other cultures in mainland Asia for rice farming, spreading to East Asia, Mainland Southeast Asia, and South Asia.

History

Paddy fields are a typical feature of rice farming in east, south and southeast Asia. Paddies can be built into steep hillsides as terraces and adjacent to depressed or steeply sloped features such as rivers or marshes. They can require a great deal of labor and materials to create, and need large quantities of water for irrigation. Oxen and water buffalo, adapted for life in wetlands, are important working animals used extensively in paddy field farming.

Construction

Paddy fields are the typical feature of rice farming in east, south and southeast Asia. Fields can be built into steep hillsides as terraces and adjacent to depressed or steeply sloped features such as rivers or marshes. They can require a great deal of labor and materials to create, and need large quantities of water for irrigation. Flooded paddies provide an environment that allows rice to grow and prevents the growth of many weeds.

Cultivation

Rice is the major crop grown in paddy fields. The fields are flooded with water, which is then drained for harvesting. The water is used to soften the soil and provide a moist environment for the rice to grow. The water also helps to keep weeds and pests at bay.

Environmental Impact

Paddy fields have an impact on the environment. They can lead to water pollution due to the use of pesticides and fertilizers. They also contribute to methane emissions, which is a potent greenhouse gas. However, they also play a role in preserving biodiversity, as they provide a habitat for many species of birds, fish, and other wildlife.

See Also

• Rice cultivation
• Agriculture in Asia
• Terrace (agriculture)

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