The Nutritional Value of <i>Azolla</i> <i>caroliniana</i> Wild as Animal Feed

This research was conducted to investigate the nutritional value of Azolla caroliniana wild and its potential use as an alternative feed for animals. For this purpose, Azolla caroliniana was cultivated, harvested, and dried. The dried Azolla sample underwent proximate analysis. The dry matter content of Azolla caroliniana was 4.8%. The analysis of dry matter revealed 86.93% organic matter. Among them, 24.8% crude protein, 4.3% ether extract, 14.5% crude fiber and 41.32% nitrogen-free extract. According to the mineral composition of Azolla, it was found that there were 3.89% potassium, 1.89% calcium, 0.58% sulfur, 0.42% phosphorus, and 0.1456% iron, among other minerals. Chemical analyses showed that Azolla caroliniana is a plant rich in crude protein, microminerals, and vitamins. Thus, Azolla caroliniana can be regarded as a viable non-traditional feed for livestock.