Author(s)

Dongling Qi^1,2,3*, Zhixiang Wu^1,2,3, Chuan Yang^1,2,3, Zhongliang Tao^1,2,3, Linlin Zhao^1,2,3, Yingying Zhang^1,2,3, Qingmao Fu^1,2,3

¹Rubber Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou, China.
²Danzhou Investigation & Experiment Station of Tropical Crops, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Danzhou, China.
³Hainan Danzhou Agro-Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Danzhou, China.

Agroforestry ecosystems are constructed by simulating natural ecosystems, applying the principles of symbiosis in nature, and organizing multiple plant populations to coexist, while conducting targeted cultivation and structural control scientifically. Rubber agroforestry complex ecosystems aim for sustainable development in terms of industry, ecology, resource utilization, and the livelihoods of producers. Rubber agroforestry complex ecosystems create a complex production structure system that integrates biology, society, and the economy through species combinations. Rubber trees and associated biological components coordinate with each other, mutually promote growth, and yield a variety of products for producers. Cultivation techniques and patterns of rubber agroforestry are essential components of these ecosystems. This study analyzes the production practices of rubber agroforestry complex cultivation, with a focus on the development and characteristics (complexity, systematicity, intensity, and hierarchy) of rubber agroforestry systems using a literature analysis and a survey approach. It explores the types and scales of complex planting, specifications and forms, and major effects of complex cultivation. This study identifies successful rubber agroforestry cultivation patterns and practical techniques, as well as the potential benefits of developing rubber agroforestry cultivation. It also points out the shortcomings in the development of complex planting, including an emphasis on production practices but insufficient theoretical research, a focus on production but inadequate attention to the market, and an emphasis on yield while overlooking the improvement of standards, brands, and added value. There are various complex patterns for young rubber plantations, but relatively fewer for mature plantations. Based on this analysis, this study suggests that future efforts should focus on in-depth research on interspecies and environmental interactions in rubber agroforestry ecosystems, clearly define key roles, accelerate the innovation of development patterns, and strengthen the foundation for development. It recommends promoting and demonstrating successful rubber agroforestry complex patterns and providing technical training, developing product branding for rubber agroforestry patterns, enhancing product value, expanding the application functions of rubber-forest mixed crop products, and establishing a stable and sustainable industry chain. This study provide practical experience and theoretical insights in rubber agroforestry complex systems from China the potential to enrich the knowledge of rubber agroforestry composite systems, provide practical experience to improve the operating income of smallholders, and even promote the sustainable development of rubber plantations.

Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis), Agroforestry Ecosystem, Rubber Intercropping, Complex Ecological Cultivation, Land Resource

Qi, D. , Wu, Z. , Yang, C. , Tao, Z. , Zhao, L. , Zhang, Y. and Fu, Q. (2023) Exploration and Practice of Rubber Based Agroforestry Complex Systems in China. Advances in Bioscience and Biotechnology, 14, 479-491. doi: 10.4236/abb.2023.1412033.