Effect of Azolla (Azolla pinnata) feed on the growth of broiler chicken

Abstract

Poultry and in particular ducks and chickens can be raised on a diet including fresh Azolla. the nutrient digestibility of crude protein, crude fat, and crude fiber were not affected by the level of Azolla in the ration, and that broilers can readily digest the crude fiber in Azolla, but not that in rice bran, so that digestibility is not a limiting factor when Azolla is used. Nutritive value of Azolla is well documented which shows that it is a good source of protein with almost all essential amino acid required for animal nutrition (notably lysine). Furthermore, it also provides macronutrients like calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamins like vitamin A (precursor beta-carotene) and B12. All these facts suggested that Azolla can be used as unconventional feed with protein supplement for many species including ruminants, poultry, pigs and fish.