Study of chemical composition of green Azolla Azolla pinnata

Abstract

The chemical composition of feed is most important step for assessing its quality. In the present investigation percent chemical composition of green Azolla (Azolla pinnata) was estimated according to AOAC (2016). Azolla (Azolla pinnata) was cultivated in water trough and harvested on day to determine chemical composition. The dry and organic matter content of Azolla (Azolla pinnata) was 90.20% and 79.60% respectively. The crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber and nitrogen free extract content was 23.45%, 3.10%, 12.45% and 40.60% respectively. The total Ash content was 20.40%. The Azolla pinnata contained 42.29% NDF, 31.22% ADF and 11.07% HC. The mineral profile of Azolla pinnata indicates 1.66% Calcium and 0.47% Phosphorus and other minerals in trace levels. It was concluded that green Azolla (Azolla pinnata) was a rich source of crude protein, trace minerals and vitamins.