The Wisdom of using Fish to Assist Rice Cultivation in Phipun District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Abstract

The objectives of this research article were 1) to study the context of the wisdom of rice field and fish field in the same place; 2) to study the development model for fish management in rice farming; and 3) to analyze the wisdom model of using fish for rice farming. It was a qualitative research. The data were collected mainly in the research area, consisting of 2 households and 10 households of researchers, Moo 3, Khao Phra Subdistrict, Phipun District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The research results were analyzed using participatory observation, in-depth interviews with relevant persons, seminars, and analytical seminars. The research results found that 1) the context of the area was ​​approximately 1 rai where fish can swim back and forth naturally, with a sloping system that can receive and release water as needed, with high and wide ridges of approximately 6 meters around the rectangular rice field, with tall trees providing shade; 2) the development model of fish management in rice farming was a model of using wisdom from the previous generation who farmed rice and raised fish. Then, there was intensive observation and learning, and then further development. Then, a small-scale experiment was done by adding water to soak the stubble to soften it. The fish helped to remove the stubble, and the fish rolled on the mud to spawn. It was a way of plowing the field to prepare for sowing seedlings. When the rice grew, the fish helped each other eat underwater weeds in the field. The fish jumped to eat insects and aphids in the field; 3) analysis of the wisdom model of using fish in rice farming found that it was caused by management that affected the behavior of the fish. Observation and learning of fish behavior were related to the use of fish in rice farming.