In Xiaopu Town, Changxing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 1,100 acres of “rice-frog base” have begun harvesting dark-spotted frogs. Through this innovative cultivation model, these thousand-acre frog ponds have “leaped” into millions in wealth.
Around 5 a.m., while dew still clung to rice leaves during the grain filling period, the person in charge of the rice-frog co-cultivation demonstration base led over 20 villagers wearing waterproof gear to set up ground cage nets in the rice fields.
The base manager originally came from Hangzhou, Zhejiang. In 2023, while passing by a rice-frog cultivation base, they became deeply interested in this modern agricultural method of “rice-frog co-cultivation.”
The manager stated: “We collaborated with an agricultural university team who customized complete breeding techniques for our base. We also implemented standardized procedures, allowing our dark-spotted frogs to grow in an environment close to natural ecology.”
After releasing the frog seedlings, the team would inspect the base every day at dawn. After one year of effort, the base’s 800,000 jin of dark-spotted frogs welcomed their first harvest.
The manager explained: “These frogs show excellent activity levels, similar to wild frogs. After customers try them in the market, the repurchase rate is very high. Within two months, we completely sold out the entire harvest.”
Following this initial success, the manager expanded the base to 1,100 acres. Ninety percent of the base area must be used for rice cultivation, while ten percent is dedicated to frog farming, creating a mutually beneficial rice-frog co-cultivation system.
The manager added: “The rice provides shade for the frogs, while the frog droppings serve as fertilizer for the rice. Therefore, we use absolutely no chemical fertilizers or pesticides throughout the entire process, making it completely green and ecological.”
Looking at the vast fields before them, the manager calculated this year’s harvest profits.
“Our frog yield averages 2,000 jin per acre, with total production expected to reach 2.5 million jin this year, generating nearly 30 million yuan in sales revenue. The rice brings in 3,000 yuan per acre, significantly increasing benefits compared to traditional agricultural planting,” the manager noted.
Harvested dark-spotted frogs are promptly delivered to cold storage at around 5°C. They undergo weighing, sorting, and boxing before being transported live to customers.
This month, as dark-spotted frog sales from the rice fields near completion, the rice will also reach harvesting season. The manager mentioned they are currently collaborating with universities to further improve dark-spotted frog breeding efficiency. Amid the fragrance of rice blossoms, the chorus of frogs grows louder each year, celebrating another abundant harvest.
Xiaopu Town
Xiaopu Town is a historic water town located in Zhejiang Province, China, known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and scenic canals. It has a history dating back over 1,300 years to the Tang and Song dynasties, serving as an important hub for trade and culture. Today, it is celebrated for its traditional stone bridges, old residences, and tranquil atmosphere that reflects China’s rich heritage.
Changxing County
Changxing County is a historic region located in Zhejiang Province, China, with a history dating back over 2,500 years to the Spring and Autumn period. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including ancient sites like the Bronze Sword of Goujian discovery area and the Jinsha Site, which highlight its significance in early Chinese civilization. Today, the county is also known for its beautiful natural landscapes, such as the Suxi Mountains and Taihu Lake, attracting tourists interested in both history and ecology.
Huzhou City
Huzhou is a historic city in northern Zhejiang Province, China, situated on the southern shores of Lake Tai. With a history dating back over 2,300 years, it was established as a city during the Warring States period and later became a major center for silk production and trade. The city is also renowned for its traditional Chinese brush-making industry and its beautiful classical gardens.
Zhejiang Province
Zhejiang is a coastal province in eastern China, historically renowned as a center of culture, commerce, and education. It was the heart of the ancient Yue culture and the Southern Song Dynasty, which established their capital in its present-day capital of Hangzhou. Today, it is one of China’s most prosperous regions, famous for its picturesque landscapes, silk production, and vibrant private economy.
rice-frog base
I am not familiar with a specific cultural or historical site known as the “rice-frog base.” It is possible this term refers to a local name, a concept from a specific cultural tradition, or a mistranslation. Without more context, I cannot provide a meaningful summary.
Hangzhou
Hangzhou is a historic city in eastern China renowned for its scenic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty and was a major cultural and economic hub due to its location on the Grand Canal. Today, it is celebrated for its classical gardens, temples, and tea plantations, particularly for the production of Longjing tea.
agricultural university
An agricultural university is a higher education institution specializing in the scientific study and advancement of farming, agronomy, and related life sciences. Historically, many were established in the 19th and 20th centuries to support national food security and improve rural economies through research and education. Today, their curriculum often extends to environmental science, biotechnology, and sustainable resource management.
rice-frog co-cultivation
Rice-frog co-cultivation is an ancient agricultural practice, particularly in East Asia, where frogs are introduced into rice paddies. This method creates a symbiotic ecosystem where the frogs consume harmful insects, reducing the need for pesticides, while their waste provides natural fertilizer for the rice. This sustainable approach promotes biodiversity and healthier crop yields.
