Author(s) :

Safdar Hassan, MUAMMAD IRFAN HAIDER.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Feed cost is the major challenge in ruminant production, accounting for 60–70% of total expenses. Protein sources such as soybean meal, canola meal, and groundnut cake are essential for growth and milk production but remain expensive and often compete with human food and industrial use. Azolla pinnata, an aquatic fern symbiotically associated with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria, has emerged as an alternative, sustainable, and low-cost protein source. With crude protein ranging from 20–30% DM, balanced amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and high digestibility, Azolla has been successfully used as a partial replacement for conventional protein meals. Recent studies indicate that feeding Azolla to ruminants improves milk yield, growth rate, feed efficiency, and reduces feed cost by 15–20% Furthermore, Azolla provides environmental benefits, including methane reduction and nitrogen fixation, making it a climate-smart feed option .This article reviews the nutritional value, mode of action, profitability, comparison with conventional protein meals, and future perspectives of Azolla pinnata in ruminant diets.

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