Coexistence of rice production and threatened plant species: testing Marsilea quadrifolia L. in N-Italy

Abstract In the past, aquatic pteridophyte Marsilea quadrifolia L. was considered as a weed in paddy fields of southern Europe. The systematic use herbicides crucial component intensive agronomic approach has led to dramatic decline M. populations European countries, mostly Mediterranean area. However, introduction recent years sustainable rice cultivation practices allowed partial recovery. We present here results research aimed at analyzing effects farming typologies respect growth Po Valley After having transplanted swards belonging different systems, we monitored its and diffusion. Our showed that higher vegetative performance organic farms, even though it can survive conventional with reduced herbicide supply. Differences water chemistry have limited on performance, because wide ecological amplitude. shady conditions provided by canopy create micro-habitats suitable for growth. Cultivating farms represents an important opportunity preserving this endangered species areas agriculture. This can, meanwhile, represent valid combine nature conservation productivity offering new possible income farmers.