Spatial yield gains in empty-row optimized rice-crab co-culture are linked to <i>nifH</i>-driven nitrogen compensation in border rows.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The rice-crab coculture system is ecologically sustainable with efficient resource utilization, but the soil nitrogen cycling mechanisms underlying yield limitations in different coculture models remain unclear. Here, we aimed to identify yield-limiting factors by comparing rice productivity between the conventional rice-crab coculture model (CK) and an optimized model (12 rows cultivated-1 row empty, ERC-12). We hypothesized that ERC-12 enhances crab activity in empty rows, thereby stimulating nifH-mediated soil nitrogen fixation to offset yield losses caused by reduced planting density.

Methods

Field experiments were conducted in Panjin, Liaoning Province, during 2023-2024 using two japonica cultivars, Yanjing 939 (YJ939) and Yanfeng 47 (YF47). Plots were arra

SUBMITTER: Yang T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12394533 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature