Azolla as a Nutrient-Rich Feed Supplement for Livestock: Enhancing Health and Productivity
Arjun Kumar Agarwal*
Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India
Amar Kalakar
Dept. of Horticulture, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India
Pratikshya Mishra
Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India
Manigopa Chakraborty
Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India
Sumit Kumar Mishra
Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India
Fatima Araish
Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India
Shalvi Aishwarya Verma
Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.2.2024/46-51
Keywords: Azolla, Livestock, Livestock feed, Nitrogen fixation
Abstract
Azolla, an aquatic fern rich in nutrients, has attracted attention for its potential as a good feed additive for animals. Azolla, a tiny aquatic fern, is an excellent source of nutrients for cattle feed supplements. It has a low lignin content that facilitates easy digestion and high amount of protein, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Its mutual relationship with the nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Anabaena azollae further increases its protein content, making it one of the richest alternative protein sources (25-30% protein). Incorporating Azolla into livestock diets offers numerous benefits. Its high digestibility and favorable amino acid profile promote efficient nutrient utilization, resulting in improved feed conversion ratios and reduced feed costs. Studies have demonstrated that Azolla supplementation can increase feed efficiency, average daily gain, milk production (15-20% increase) and overall productivity in various livestock species, including cattle, poultry, sheep, goats and fish. Azolla cultivation is a sustainable and cost-effective practice, as it can be grown in freshwater bodies with low input requirements. Its nitrogen-fixing capabilities and potential as a biofertilizer further contribute to sustainable agriculture practices. Additionally, Azolla farming presents entrepreneurial opportunities by providing a consistent supply of high-quality feed while aligning with the growing demand for organic and sustainable agricultural products. Overall, Azolla holds significant importance as a nutrient-dense feed supplement in the livestock sector, contributing to improved animal health, enhanced productivity, reduced production costs and the promotion of sustainable farming practices.
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