Preparation of Azolla Powder for Nutritional Supplementation of Goats at Rateypani Goat Farm
Namchi, 24 June:
As part of its ongoing efforts to improve livestock nutrition through sustainable and cost-effective feeding practices, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AHVS), South District, successfully prepared Azolla powder for use as a supplementary feed for goats at the Rateypani Goat Farm.
Under this initiative, Azolla was cultivated in a water pond within the farm premises and allowed to multiply until an adequate quantity was obtained. Upon maturity, the Azolla was harvested and thoroughly cleaned by washing it several times with clean water to remove dirt, mud, and other impurities. The cleaned Azolla was then sun-dried for approximately three days until complete moisture removal was achieved.
After drying, the Azolla was finely ground into powder form and subsequently mixed with the regular feed ration provided to the goats. The initiative demonstrates the farm’s commitment to utilizing locally produced resources for improving animal nutrition while reducing dependence on external feed supplements.
Azolla is widely recognized as a highly nutritious livestock feed supplement, containing approximately 20–25 percent crude protein on a dry matter basis, along with essential amino acids, vitamins, carotenoids, and important minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and magnesium. Its nutritional profile supports growth, body condition, muscle development, reproductive performance, immunity, and milk production in livestock.
The adoption of Azolla-based supplementation at Rateypani Goat Farm highlights the Department’s focus on promoting innovative, economical, and environmentally sustainable livestock management practices. As a rapidly growing aquatic fern that can be cultivated at the farm level with minimal inputs, Azolla offers an effective alternative source of high-quality nutrition for livestock.
The Department will continue to explore and promote such scientific feeding interventions to enhance livestock productivity and support sustainable animal husbandry practices.
