In the waterways of Taizhou City, Jiangsu Province, villagers are diving into summer by harvesting water caltrops—a crunchy, nutrient-packed aquatic crop that’s making waves in local markets. 🌊🍃 Often called 'aquatic chestnuts,' these floating plants thrive in slow-moving freshwater, turning lakes into lush green carpets during harvest season.
🚤 Picture this: Boats glide across sunlit waters as farmers pluck the spiky, star-shaped fruits. "Demand is high this year—they’re used in everything from soups to stir-fries," shares one villager. Local authorities have tapped into Taizhou’s abundant water resources to expand cultivation, creating jobs and boosting rural incomes. 💰 "It’s like farming gold on water," laughs a worker.
🌟 Fun fact: Water caltrops date back 3,000 years in Chinese cuisine and are now trending globally as a gluten-free superfood! With eco-friendly farming practices, Taizhou is blending tradition with modern sustainability—proving that sometimes, the best opportunities float right to the surface. 🌍✨
