AZOLLA- AN ALTERNATE AND SUSTAINABLE FEED FOR LIVESTOCK

Abstract

Azolla is very rich in proteins, essential amino acids, vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin B12, Beta Carotene), growth promoter intermediaries and minerals like calcium, phosphorous, potassium, ferrous, copper, magnesium etc. Azolla, on a dry weight basis, is constituted of 25-35% protein content, 10-15% mineral content and 7-10%, a combination of amino acids, bio-active substances and biopolymers. Carbohydrate and oil content in Azolla is very low. Thus the biocomposition of Azolla, makes it one of the most economic and efficient feed substitutes for livestock. Moreover, Azolla can be easily digested by livestock, owing to its high protein and low lignin content. Azolla can also be fed to sheep, goat, pig and rabbit as feed substitute.