The present investigation aimed to explain the effect of releasing ducks in the paddy field on: weed suppression, pest control, nutrient supplying ability, full-time ploughing and muddying effect. The golden snail control and rice stimulation effect were monitored based pn ocular inspection only. Results showed that there was a significant weeding effect for ducks for a particular weed. Likewise, the effectiveness of pest control effect of the paddy herded-ducks was aptly demonstrated by the presenceof insects in their crop. The fertilizing ability of the duck manure was manifested when the amount of NPK assessed ranged from 10 to 20 % of the fertilizer recommendation of the soil. Moreover, there was a significant increase in the number of rice hill per m~2, which was attributed to the physical action of the duck rubbing against the rice plant's roots and stalks and the removal of the mud at the stalks with its bill and feet. The robust nature of the rice plants can be attributed to the constant stimulation of the plants by the ducks particularly the underground roots. Finally, the full-time ploughing and muddying effect of the ducks reduced the intensity of sunlight in the water, which prevented photosynthetic reaction, thus suppressing growth of weeds. The above results confirmed the potential and applicability of agri-chemical free rice farming in the country.
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