Azolla as a functional feed ingredient: Growth, immunity, and economic impacts in Broiler chicken
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66179/avj.14Keywords:
Azolla, Broiler chickens, Growth performance, Immune response, Economic feasibility, Sustainable nutritionAbstract
This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the use of Azolla as a functional feed ingredient in broiler nutrition. With growing global demand for cost-effective and sustainable poultry feed alternatives, Azolla emerges as a promising solution due to its symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Anabaena azollae. Rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, carotenoids, and minerals, Azolla offers both nutritional benefits and functional properties. Experimental studies demonstrate that dietary inclusion of Azolla at 2.5–5% improves growth performance, feed conversion efficiency, and immune response while lowering feed costs, without adverse effects on carcass traits. Furthermore, Azolla cultivation supports environmental sustainability through biological nitrogen fixation and integration into circular farming systems. Despite limitations such as high fiber and moisture content, this review examines Azolla's nutritional value, impacts on broiler growth, immunity, carcass quality, and economic viability. It also addresses current constraints and suggests future directions including fermentation, enzyme supplementation, and adoption in climate-smart agriculture. As the world shifts toward sustainable animal production, Azolla represents a multifunctional ingredient that can increase broiler productivity while reducing dependence on expensive traditional protein sources.
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