Azolla is a nutritionally rich free-floating water fern. Its popularity has increased among livestock producers who seek sustainable, economical feed supplementing. It is a micro aquatic fern that floats on the water's surface, and under favorable conditions, it reproduces quickly. The most widely cultured among all species is Azolla pinnata due to its high nutritional quality.
It contains 23% plus crude protein and it is high in essential amino acids like lysine. It also contains vitamins A and B12 and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. Azolla is a very good supplement that can improve the health and production of animals.
Benefits of Feeding Azolla to Livestock
Feeding Azolla to livestock has several advantages. The high nutritional quality boosts the health and productivity of animals. Azolla feeding has shown many benefits to the livestock as shown by farmers. Feeding one kilogram of fresh Azolla to them, per day raises the milk production of cows from 0.5 to 0.6 liters.
The supplementation of this fern regularly also enhances the fat content of milk. The production of Azolla is also highly economical. The production only needs a little investment and resources. Azollacan be grown in rainwater with no chemical fertilizers.
Without much investment, feed costs will be minimized for the farmers. The rapid growth of Azolla will also provide daily supplies without failure. The cultivation of it also ensures a sustainable and environmentally friendly farm system.
How to Grow Azolla
The method of growing Azolla is straightforward and practical. Farmers require a long-lasting PVC pond or a similar container. The pond should be 12 feet long and 4 feet wide. Old gunny bags should be placed at the bottom of the pond to protect it from sharp objects and extend its life.
Rainwater harvested from roof edges can be stored in plastic tanks and can be used to fill the pond. Ten days later, the surface will be fully covered with Azolla. The water level should be at around 10-15 cm. The mosquito net should cover the pond to prevent debris such as leaves or fruits from falling into it.
Once the Azolla is at its harvest size. The farmers can harvest approximately one kilogram daily using a sieve or net. Maintenance of a pond includes periodical cleaning and refilling of the water. These ensure that the PVC ponds last long. If it can be taken care of properly even it can last up to five years.
How to Feed Azolla to Livestock
Azolla should be introduced to livestock feed gradually. First, it should be mixed with cattle feed or concentrate. This way it will help animals get accustomed to its taste and smell. After a week, livestock usually enjoy Azolla and can be fed directly without mixing. One kilogram of this fern can be fed to livestock. Divide one Kg of Azolla into two portions, morning and evening. It provides the best benefit for milk production and quality.
Economic Benefits of Azolla Cultivation
The economic benefits of Azolla cultivation are significant. It helps to increase milk yield by an average of 0.6 liters per cow daily. It also enhances the fat content in milk. This improvement in milk yield and quality translates into an additional income. It forms an excellent venture for the farmers for rearing Azolla. Azolla utilizes the least resource and its sustainable nature makes it ideal for small and marginal farmers.
Azolla is easy to obtain and does not require a large initial investment. Additionally, it feeds agricultural animals without reducing the amount of cattle under control. This innovation offers a long way to a wonderful answer in terms of milk production rate and quality without requiring extensive maintenance.
