Micresian Padi Fields
Stretching around the entirety of Mount Valais in the Ecoan Rainforest of Emycelium are the Micersian Padi Fields. These giant stretches of submerged paddies are the largest on the globe, claiming over five-hundred square kilometres of land.
Geography, Location & Climate
The Micresian Padi Fields are a large expanse of flooded plains, artificially flattened by the resident micresians. These fields are so deep that they are traversed by small canoes and boats. The fields sprawl round the lowlands of Mount Valais, thinning as they climb up in altitude. Mount Valais' lowlands consist of layers of volcanic soil rich in nutrients, giving way for dense rainforests. The majority of the rainforest around the mountain have been cleared for the construction of these paddies, however.
Ecology
Despite the padi fields being artificial, many organisms call it home. Many small river snakes, terrapins, frogs, toads, salamanders, small fish, aquatic and semi-aquatic birds and mammals live in the flooded plains. Insects feed on the taro and rice plants, and larger mammals attempt to steal some of the crops from the lower parts of the padi fields, where people are less present.
The plant life is just as rich. Many large willow and mangrove trees dot the fields, creating spots of shelter for animals during summer months. Wilting willows are a minor inconvenience for padi farmers. Their shedding leaves often get in the way when harvesting rice and taro, but some have found that the leaves don't actually taste too bad. It is too risky to remove these willows from the fields, as they are vital to maintaining a high amount of nutrients in the soil.
Comments