Search Results (58)

Large soil pores critically influence water and solute transport in soils. The presence of preferential flow paths created by soil macropores can profoundly impact water quality, underscoring the necessity of accurately assessing the characteristics of these macropores. However, it remains unclear whether variations in macropore structure exist between different altitudes and positions of terraced paddy fields. The primary objective of this research was to utilize X-ray computed tomography (CT) and image analysis techniques to characterize the soil pore structure at both the inner field and ridge positions across different altitude levels (high, medium, and low altitude) within terraced paddy fields. The results indicate that there are significant differences in the distribution of large soil pores at different altitudes, with large pores concentrated in the surface layer (0–10 cm) in low-altitude areas, while in high-altitude areas, the distribution of large pores is more uniform. Additionally, as altitude increases, the porosity of large pores shows an increasing trend. The three-dimensional equivalent diameter and large pore volume are primarily characterized by large pores ranging from 1 to 2 mm and 0 to 5 mm³, respectively, with their morphology predominantly appearing spherical or ellipsoidal. The connectivity of large pores in the surface layer of paddy soil is stronger than that in the bunds. However, this connectivity gradually weakens with increasing soil depth. The findings from this study provide valuable quantitative insights into the unique characteristics of soil macropores that vary according to the altitude and position in terraced paddy fields. Moreover, this study emphasizes the necessity for future research that encompasses a broader range of soil types, altitudes, and terraced paddy locations to validate and further explore the identified relationships between altitude and macropore characteristics. Full article

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is an important part of the global C pool and is sensitive to climate change. The SOC content and fractions of rice paddies along four elevations (250, 1150, 1600 and 1800 m) on the same slope in four seasons (spring, summer, autumn and winter) at Yuanyang Terrace in southwest China were investigated, and their relationship with environmental factors was analyzed. The contents of SOC, unprotected SOC (uPOM), physically protected SOC (pPOM) and biochemically protected SOC (bcPOM) in rice paddies at a low elevation (250 m), were significantly lower by 49–51% than those at relatively high elevations (1600 m and 1800 m). Among the SOC fractions, the highest proportion (33–50%) was uPOM, followed by pPOM and bcPOM (accounting for 17–40%), and the lowest proportion was chemically protected SOC (cPOM). In addition, there were interseasonal differences among the contents of SOC fractions, with a significantly higher content of SOC, uPOM and pPOM at an elevation of 1600 m in summer than in the other three seasons, whereas the cPOM content at an elevation of 250 m in spring was significantly higher than in the other three higher elevations. According to the redundancy analysis (RDA), total nitrogen was the key environmental factor, with an explanatory degree of 56% affecting the contents of SOC and its fractions. Thus, the SOC content increased with increasing elevation, and physical and biochemical protection were potential stabilization mechanisms responsible for their stability in the rice paddy of Yuanyang Terrace. These results provides empirical evidence for the elevational distribution patterns and seasonal dynamics of SOC fractions in rice paddies across Yuanyang Terrace. These findings highlight the importance of physical and biochemical protection mechanisms in stabilizing SOC in rice paddies, which could enhance long-term C sequestration and contribute to climate change mitigation in terraced agroecosystems. Full article

Rice–fish coculture, a traditional integrated agriculture–aquaculture system, has been recognized as a “Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System” due to its ecological and socio-economic benefits. However, the impact of rice–fish coculture on greenhouse gas emissions remains controversial. This study investigated the effects of rice–fish coculture on methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions in the Qingtian rice–fish system, a 1200-year-old terraced paddy field system in Zhejiang Province, China. A field experiment with two treatments, rice–fish coculture (RF) and rice monoculture (RM), was conducted to examine the relationships between fish activities, water and soil properties, microbial communities, and greenhouse gas fluxes. Results showed that the RF system had significantly higher CH₄ emissions, particularly during the early rice growth stage, compared to the RM system. This increase was attributed to the lower dissolved oxygen levels and higher methanogen abundance in the RF system, likely driven by the grazing, “muddying”, and burrowing activities of fish. In contrast, no significant differences in N₂O emissions were observed between the two systems. Redundancy analysis revealed that water variables contributed more to the variation in greenhouse gas emissions than soil variables. Microbial community analysis indicated that the RF system supported a more diverse microbial community involved in methane cycling processes. These findings provide new insights into the complex interactions between fish activities, environmental factors, and microbial communities in regulating greenhouse gas emissions from rice–fish coculture systems. The results suggest that optimizing water management strategies and exploring the potential of microbial community manipulation could help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining the ecological and socio-economic benefits of these traditional integrated agriculture–aquaculture systems. Full article

Plant-particle-reinforced polymer composite products are widely used in construction. New terrace profiles, reinforced with oat or millet husks, are being considered. However, their resistance to wood-decomposing Agaricomycetes fungi requires investigation due to their intended environmental exposure. Susceptibility to Coniophora puteana, Coriolus versicolor, and Gleophyllum trabeum was tested. Well-known rice-husk-reinforced profiles were used as the reference material for the analysis. The bioresistance of the oat-husk-reinforced profiles was similar to that of the reference profile. Minor mycelium development and changes in the surface morphology, mass, and flexural strength were found. Millet husk-reinforced profiles showed greater fungal susceptibility, questioning their suitability for the intended application. Coniophora puteana was the most aggressive among all the profiles. Full article

The Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage agroecosystem, embody a millennia-old synergy of cultural heritage and ecological resilience, yet face declining water yields amid land-use intensification and climate variability. This study employs the InVEST model and geographic detector analysis to quantify water-yield dynamics from 2010 to 2020 and identify their spatial and mechanistic drivers. Annual water yield averaged 558 mm, with cultivated lands contributing 33% of total volume, while built-up areas reached 980 mm per unit in 2018. A 31% decline by 2020, driven by cropland fragmentation and tourism growth, revealed persistent-yield hotspots in forested central-eastern terraces and cold spots in southwestern dryland margins. Land-use pattern accounted for 80–95% of yield variability, exacerbated by temperature interactions. Forests, delivering 68.7 million m³ over the decade, highlight the hydrological significance of traditional landscape mosaics. These findings advocate reforestation in critical recharge zones, terrace restoration to preserve agroecological integrity, and regulated tourism integrating rainwater harvesting to sustain water security and cultural heritage. By blending hydrological modeling with socio-cultural insights, this study provides a scalable framework for safeguarding terraced agroecosystems worldwide, aligning heritage conservation with sustainable development. Full article

This study examines the climate adaptability of traditional Hani ‘Mushroom Houses’ located in the rice terrace region of Honghe Hani Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China. By analyzing 30 years of meteorological data, the study identifies the local climatic characteristics of high temperatures, high humidity, and significant diurnal temperature variations. The thermal comfort voting method was used to establish a quantitative relationship between the Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) index and residents’ subjective thermal perceptions, thereby assessing seasonal variations in thermal comfort. Field measurements of indoor and outdoor temperature, humidity, and wind speed were conducted in May and December 2023 to evaluate thermal interactions between rooms. This study demonstrated: (1) the critical roles of building orientation (e.g., northwest-facing design), functional layout (e.g., multi-story zoning), and structural forms (e.g., thick walls, thatched roofs) in regulating temperature and humidity. (2) Confirmed that Hani ‘Mushroom Houses’ stabilize indoor environments through passive strategies, including material selection (wood, rammed earth), natural ventilation (cross-draft design), and spatial organization (climate-buffering storage layers). (3) Provided empirical evidence for optimizing traditional dwellings (e.g., enhanced insulation, ventilation improvements) and advancing sustainable practices in similar climatic regions. Full article

This study investigated tourists’ visual perception, aesthetic experience, and behavioral intentions across four types of landscapes. A total of 353 questionnaires were distributed on-site, and the SOR model was used to examine the visual stimuli and aesthetic responses perceived by tourists, followed by laboratory eye-tracking to observe tourists’ points of attention on the Longji Terraced Fields landscape Key findings reveal that different residences and revisiting conditions affect tourists’ visual attention, with the most attention given at the intersections of landscape elements. Furthermore, although landscape visual stimuli do not significantly affect the intention response, eye movement parameters are positively correlated with aesthetic experience. The study contributes to understanding tourist aesthetic perception in terraced rice field landscapes and provides Chinese cases for the aesthetic appreciation of the terrace landscape. Full article

This study investigates the continuation of Environmental Conservation Agriculture (ECA) practices among farmers in the Ifugao Rice Terraces, a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) in the Philippines. Through a cross-sectional survey of ECA farmers in the municipality of Banaue, this research explores the socio-demographic, environmental, and economic factors influencing the adoption and persistence of ECA. The findings reveal that while access to resources such as high-yielding seeds, modern farming equipment, and financial support is important for the adoption of ECA, the shift toward high-yielding varieties has contributed to a decline in the cultivation of Tinawon rice, which is vital for maintaining the ecological balance and cultural heritage of the terraces. This study underscores the importance of balancing modern agricultural practices with the continued cultivation of Tinawon rice to preserve biodiversity, soil health, and cultural identity, while also enhancing agricultural productivity. Additionally, the roles of community-based support systems, market access, and financial incentives are highlighted as key factors in sustaining ECA practices. Climate change presents both challenges and opportunities for adaptation, making it essential to integrate traditional knowledge with modern techniques to build resilience. Understanding the factors that shape ECA continuation is crucial for refining initiatives that address both the economic and cultural contexts. By emphasizing the importance of tailored, community-driven interventions, this study provides critical insights for enhancing ECA adoption in the Ifugao Rice Terraces, contributing to climate resilience and the long-term sustainability of this significant agricultural heritage system. Full article

The Ifugao Rice Terraces have been the Philippines’ first and only Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) since 2011. More than a decade later, this study assesses whether Ifugao farmers find this designation beneficial and if it enhances their sense of involvement. Through a cross-sectional survey of GIAHS farmers in Banaue, Ifugao, this study examines perceived benefits and involvement, along with views on youth participation in agriculture, farmer livelihoods, and tourism management in Ifugao. The findings reveal that 65.1% of farmers see the GIAHS designation as beneficial and 58.7% feel involved. Farmers who perceive limited tourism benefits from the GIAHS are more likely to feel uninvolved, while those who value the designation’s potential for improving income and consumer demand for Ifugao rice report higher involvement. Cultural heritage and ancestral values are significant motivators, with some farmers viewing the GIAHS as a means of preserving traditions. Support from local government, subsidies, and media enhances involvement, particularly among those practicing rituals or growing the traditional Tinawon rice, which strengthens ties to the GIAHS. Additionally, farmers involved in discussions or training on Environmental Conservation Agriculture (ECA) report a stronger connection to the GIAHS, as ECA practices align with their traditional, sustainable approaches. Overall, this study highlights the complex role of the GIAHS as a bridge between cultural heritage, livelihood, and sustainability, underscoring the need to integrate farmer perspectives more closely into GIAHS initiatives in Ifugao. Full article

Climate change and geological shifts were pivotal in the survival and development of ancient human societies, especially in densely populated regions like the middle and lower Lishui River Basin. This study explored the dynamic interactions between ancient human cultures and the region’s natural environment, using field research alongside geological, geomorphological, and archaeological data spanning from the late Paleolithic to the Neolithic periods. Our findings showed that prehistoric sites in the middle and lower Lishui River Basin were primarily located in the low hilly areas surrounding the lower basin during the Paleolithic era, a pattern shaped by the region’s geomorphology. Early human settlements were strategically positioned near the Lishui River, offering access to vital resources while minimizing flood risk. These locations provided flat terrain, abundant vegetation, and materials for tool-making, factors that supported a hunting and gathering lifestyle. As the coldest phase of the last glacial period approached, the transition from the Paleolithic to the Neolithic eras marked a period of significant behavioral adaptation. In response to the harsher environment, humans began settling on lower terraces and miniaturizing their stone tools, signaling a shift to more specialized hunting techniques. This adaptability and resilience marked the refinement of hunting economies during this period. With the onset of the Holocene epoch and a warmer climate, conditions for human habitation became more favorable. Societies began migrating from the hills to the fertile lower Lishui River Basin, heralding the Neolithic period. This era saw the emergence of settlements and the onset of early rice cultivation, marking the transition from a hunting–gathering economy to one centered on agriculture. By the Daxi period, these settlements had expanded, extending their influence throughout the region. In conclusion, this study underscores the critical roles of climate change and geological features in shaping human settlement patterns, economic activities, and cultural evolution in the middle and lower Lishui River Basin. Our findings offer valuable insights into the evolutionary processes of ancient human cultures in the region and provide a foundation to understand future challenges in sustainable development. Full article

The effect of UV-B radiation exposure on transgenerational plasticity, the phenomenon whereby the parental environment influences both the parent’s and the offspring’s phenotype, is poorly understood. To investigate the impact of exposing successive generations of rice plants to UV-B radiation on seed morphology and proanthocyanidin content, the local traditional rice variety ‘Baijiaolaojing’ was planted on terraces in Yuanyang county and subjected to enhanced UV-B radiation treatments. The radiation intensity that caused the maximum phenotypic plasticity (7.5 kJ·m⁻²) was selected for further study, and the rice crops were cultivated for four successive generations. The results show that in the same generation, enhanced UV-B radiation resulted in significant decreases in grain length, grain width, spike weight, and thousand-grain weight, as well as significant increases in empty grain percentage and proanthocyanidin content, compared with crops grown under natural light conditions. Proanthocyanidin content increased as the number of generations of rice exposed to radiation increased, but in generation G3, it decreased, along with the empty grain ratio. At the same time, biomass, tiller number, and thousand-grain weight increased, and rice growth returned to control levels. When the offspring’s radiation memory and growth environment did not match, rice growth was negatively affected, and seed proanthocyanidin content was increased to maintain seed activity. The correlation analysis results show that phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL), cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H), dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (DFR), and 4-coumarate:CoA ligase (4CL) enzyme activity positively influenced proanthocyanidin content. Overall, UV-B radiation affected transgenerational plasticity in seed morphology and proanthocyanidin content, showing that rice was able to adapt to this stressor if previous generations had been continuously exposed to treatment. Full article

The stability of irrigation water is critical for the sustainability of alpine agriculture. Based on monthly precipitation and terraced field water and spring water samples obtained between 2015 and 2016, the study used the mean residence time and isotope mixing model to analyze the influence of spring water residence time on irrigation water stability in the Hani Rice Terraces. The results indicate that: (1) The mean residence time of precipitation and terraced field water in spring water was 2.46 years and 1.55 years, respectively, implying that the terraced field’s irrigation water source could be refilled by spring water recharged 1.5–2.5 years ago. (2) The mean residence time of precipitation in ascending and descending springs was 2.73 years and 1.95 years, respectively. The mean residence time of terraced field water in ascending and descending springs was 1.54 years and 1.04 years, respectively. The ascending spring’s recharge water residence time is 0.5–0.8 years longer than that of the descending spring, indicating that the spring water exhibits intra-seasonal and inter-seasonal staggered peak recharging. At the same time, the total recharge period of the ascending–descending spring is extended to 1–3 years, which means the terraced fields have a drought resistance of three years. (3) The mean residence time of precipitation and terraced field water at higher altitudes in the ascending spring is 2.52 times and 3.73 times, respectively, while in the descending spring, it is 3.36 times and 6.49 times to the lower altitude region. This means that the mean residence time of the recharge water source in the lower terraced fields was shorter, and the elevation difference between ascending and descending springs was smaller, thereby regulating the spatial homogeneous distribution of recharge water sources in the terraced fields. Full article

Rice terraces are crucial for agriculture in China’s southern mountainous regions. Land use and land cover change (LUCC) in these areas impact hydrology, but our understanding is limited. In this study, we applied the hydrological assessment tool SWAT to a selected small watershed in the rice terrace-dense area of central Hunan province, China. This study covered four LUCC periods over the past 40 years and was simulated at annual and monthly scales. The results showed that from 1980 to 2020, the areas of paddy fields and drylands decreased by 4.19% and 5.76%, respectively, while the areas of forests and construction land increased by 1.14% and 92.48%, respectively. During the past period, LUCC led to a decrease of 1.77% and 2.49% in runoff and infiltration, respectively, and an increase of 1.03% in ET. However, the water yield remained almost unchanged, indicating that the rice terrace plays a positive role in maintaining stable watershed water yield under LUCC. The results of the sub-basin analysis indicated that the transformation of paddy fields and forests directly determines the trend of hydrological changes. Land use type had the most significant impact on the runoff of the rice-terrace watershed, with the proportions of paddy fields and forests being the most influential factors. Paddy fields significantly influenced the stability of runoff at the watershed scale, suggesting that a high paddy field ratio doesn’t ensure sustainability. This study offers valuable insights for managing small watershed terraces, land use planning, and achieving sustainable development in the watershed. Full article

This study examines the intersection of archaeological data and community narratives in interpreting the Ifugao Rice Terraces in the Philippines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Long regarded as 2000-year-old symbols of an uncolonized cultural past, recent research challenges this view, suggesting a 16th-century origin coinciding with Spanish contact. The longstanding characterization of the Ifugao Rice Terraces as 2000-year-old monuments cemented a perception of Ifugao culture as static and unchanging, overshadowing the dynamic cultural practices that have persisted and evolved over the centuries. It is crucial to recognize that these terraces are not frozen in time but are active representations of Ifugao’s living culture, which has continually adapted to social, environmental, and historical changes while maintaining its distinct identity. This paradigm shift, supported by radiocarbon dating and ethnohistorical analysis, aligns more closely with local oral histories and portrays the Ifugao not as passive inheritors of tradition but as active participants in their history. We argue for the integration of scientific data with community stories, presenting a holistic understanding of the terraces as dynamic elements of Ifugao resilience and identity. The findings advocate a move away from romanticized historical interpretations toward a narrative that respects the complexity and adaptability of Indigenous cultural landscapes. Full article

Rice terraces are a time-honored agricultural feature that overcomes rough terrain and hostile growing conditions. In addition to playing an essential role in agricultural production and land conservation, rice terraces have been recognized as living cultural landscapes, important agricultural heritage, and popular agritourism destinations for their aesthetic, sociocultural, and environmental values. However, there is a lack of understanding of this emerging niche market, especially from outsider perspectives. To fill the gap, this study analyzes Google Maps reviews of seventy representative rice terraces in Japan based on a mixed-method content analysis, aiming to identify visitors’ overall experiences, seasonal perceptions, and the causes of negative experiences. The results indicate that the overall experience of rice terraces in Japan includes seven themes: agricultural landscapes, times and seasons, visual perception, accessibility and infrastructure, sense of place, Genfukei of Japan, and food. Visitors’ perceptions toward the four seasons of the rice terraces have distinctive characteristics and result in different satisfaction levels. The main reasons for negative experiences are farmland abandonment, lack of character, poor accessibility, and bad timing. Leveraging the power of netnography, the study sheds light on the sustainable development of agricultural heritage tourism through the introduction of rice terrace conservation initiatives in Japan and the exploration of rice terrace experience. Full article