No, they are not floating, yet this author uses this word to describe chinampas.
Anyway, as a side note, I would say that a “modern” technology that somewhat mimics this is aquaponics. This method can be very powerful as it feeds off stacking biodiversity, just like the chinampas.
It doesn't originate with the author. Can confirm that chinampas have long been referred to as 'floating', as well as the Aztec capitol of Tenochtitlan being a 'floating city' in Mexico. Incidentally those pictured are not typical, they're usually smaller.
Your aquaponics analogy is apt. The canals are periodically dredged for fish manure in addition to some fish and axolotl (salamander) harvesting. Compare the Incan soku kollu technique, which starts with land and digs irrigation canals close together in which fish such as talapia are raised and harvested. The water serves as thermal mass and the mist they emit during frost events protects the plants.
I’m a little fuzzy on the details because it’s been a while since I read the story, but I believe it was like other stories I’ve heard, where it’s an old practice that fell to disuse while chasing modernism. It’s coming back now because sea level rise is worsening the effects of monsoon season.
No, they are not floating, yet this author uses this word to describe chinampas.
Anyway, as a side note, I would say that a “modern” technology that somewhat mimics this is aquaponics. This method can be very powerful as it feeds off stacking biodiversity, just like the chinampas.