Dry Azolla Based Feed Formulation for Fresh Water Carp

Abstract

Azolla pinnata is a macro alga rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Hence it can be used in sustainable animal feed production. In this study, fish feeds were formulated using wheat flour, fish meal, groundnut oil cake combined with either 25% or 30% of dried Azolla. Fish feeding experiments were conducted with Catla fries in tanks using commercial feed (C), 25% Azolla replaced (T1) and 30% Azolla replaced (T2) feeds. Catla fishes grown in Azolla replaced feed formulations showed higher growth with 2% increase in their body weight compared to control feed. In addition, survival rate and nutrient contents such as carbohydrate, and protein were also found higher in fishes grown in dry Azolla based feeds than commercial feed. This study substantiates that dry Azolla can be used as a cheap nutrient supplement in fish feeds.