Azolla cultivation and its uses in mountain system

Abstract

Azolla is a multifaceted aquatic resource to ensure ecosystem sustainability in Himalayan region. High nutritious value (on a dry weight basis, it contains 25-30% protein, 10-15% minerals and 7-10% of amino acids, bioactive substances and biopolymers), and easily digestible nutritional composition makes it a highly efficient and effective feed for livestock and other animals. Nitrogen fixing potential of Azolla varies between 30 and 50 kg N ha−1 which designates Azolla as an important biological N source for agriculture and animal industry. Judicious application of azolla with Sesbania as green manure had valuable residual effects on subsequent wheat crops, enhance the ~ 50 to 60% crop productivity as compared to control conditions. Azolla exhibits high bioremediation potential for various heavy metals like cadmium, Chromium, Copper, and Zinc. Azolla mitigates greenhouse gas emission from agriculture. This review highlighted integrated approach using Azolla and its multiple uses that offers enormous public health, environmental, and cost benefits.