The excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides has caused significant damage to the environment and the economy;however,there are no effective measures that reduce fertilizer and pesticide use without decreasing grain yield.This study summarizes the history,function,and weaknesses of the classic farming technology of China.In addition,we point out that fish and ducks supersede humans in the role of predator,and illustrate how use of animals to control and reduce most pathogens,pests,and weeds is beneficial.Finally,we explain why the rice-fish/rice-duck (RF/RD) system requires less chemical NPK fertilizers and pesticides,and how it may play a role in maintaining biodiversity and protecting the paddy field ecological environment.On the basis of the function and weakness of RF/RD,our team presents a new complex planting and breeding model.The purpose of this model is to overcome the weaknesses of RF/RD,and further improve the classic farming technologys economic,social,and ecological benefits.