Azolla filiculoides: A Promising Feedstock with Rapid Growth and High Nutritional Value

Abstract

Azolla filiculoides, a highly adaptable aquatic fern, holds immense significance across diverse domains owing to its unique characteristics and versatile applications. Cultivated in a controlled environment near Davangere, Karnataka, India, our study aimed to explore its potential uses and benefits. The cultivation was conducted in a pond situated in Mittlakalte village, measuring 6 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 2 feet deep. Initially obtained from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Davangere, the culture thrived within a temperature range of 20-30°C, demonstrating rapid adaptation to the pond environment within 1-2 weeks. Molecular characterization using specific 18S RNA primers confirmed the species as A. filiculoides, a commonly cultivated variety, with sequencing results deposited in the GenBank database under accession number PP472463. Our study conducted a thorough analysis of key parameters of A. filiculoides, encompassing dry matter, moisture content, total ash, acid insoluble ash, crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber, nitrogen-free extractives, calcium, phosphorus, and lignin. The results unveiled a dry matter content of 4.56% and a remarkably high moisture content of 95.44%, highlighting the plant's water-rich nature. A. filiculoides exhibited substantial levels of total ash (7.71%) and acid insoluble ash (6.43%), indicating its mineral composition and insoluble mineral fractions. Noteworthy was the significant crude protein content of 22.37%, suggesting its potential as a valuable protein source. Additionally, moderate levels of ether extract (3.00%) and crude fiber (9.69%) underscored its importance as a source of lipids and dietary fiber, respectively. Nitrogen-free extractives constituted 31.64% of the composition, emphasizing its substantial carbohydrate content and nutritional value. Moreover, the plant contained notable levels of essential minerals such as calcium (6.73%) and phosphorus (1.05%), enhancing its nutritional profile and suitability for various applications. The unexpected presence of lignin (3.5%) challenges previous assumptions and warrants further investigation into its implications for bioenergy production, livestock feed digestibility, and environmental remediation applications. Overall, our study offers valuable insights into the biochemical composition of A. filiculoides, highlighting its potential versatility in agriculture, aquaculture, and environmental management.