Azolla – A potent unconventional feed and its effect of feeding on various livestock species –A Review

Abstract

India has the largest bovine population in the world and second in poultry population. This trend is increasing with time. Also the demand for animal food source is gaining momentum due to rapid urbanisation and rising population. These all things combined together have increased scope for livestock industry. But decreasing land availability has become a major concern now. It has reduced the availability of nutrient rich primary food source for livestock. Livestock is relying on poor food source that has made them less productive. Under this context, Azolla can be one of the best alternatives. It has ability to grow faster with the minimum production cost. Azolla is rich in protein along with mineral, vitamins, antioxidants that is contributing to better growth and production from livestock. Also, it can be feed to almost all livestock species which justifies its use and better inclusion as food source in livestock. It can be grown in both tropical and temperate countries with few precautionary steps. Azolla was seen to increase milk production level up to 15–20% by various researchers. It has also improved the feed efficiency and provided better ADG in various livestock species. Thus, it can act as ideal unconventional feed source in our country as well as world in order to meet out the quantity and nutritional demand of livestock.