Exploring the emergence and changing dynamics of a new integrated rice-crawfish farming system in China

Abstract Crop-aquaculture systems are widely adopted around the world as they can provide high protein and energy outputs per unit of land raise farm incomes, particularly for smallholder farmers. Recently, a new crop-aquaculture system, which combines rice production with crawfish breeding (integrated rice-crawfish farming), has emerged rapidly expanded in China. However, spatial extent temporal dynamics this integrated farming system largely remain unclear, prohibits rigorous impact assessments to support its sustainable development. Here we use time series Landsat satellite data, first time, explore emergence changing period 2013-2021 five provinces China, where 90% global produced. The total area these increased steadily from 0.11 Mha 2013 0.70 2019, then sharply contracted by third 2020 rebounded 2021. Rice-crawfish located primarily low-elevation plain areas abundant water resources. More concentrated distribution is observed Jianghan Plain, regions Dongting Lake Poyang Lake. cultivation experienced considerable expansion towards east north 2021, largest found Jiangsu Anhui after 2018. Over 6% counties notable increases more than 60 km2 2017 but 20% have decreased 2019 Irrigated cropland contributor contribution 56%, followed bodies (25%) rainfed (13%). information provided study helps understand evolution China facilitates efficient management resources under rapid development system.