EFFECT OF FEEDING AZOLLA (AZOLLA PINNATA) DIET ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILERS – A REVIEW

Abstract

The global poultry industry is constantly seeking cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to conventional feed ingredients. Azolla pinnata, a fast-growing aquatic fern rich in protein and other essential nutrients, has emerged as a potential feed supplement in broiler diets. This review explores the impact of incorporating Azolla into broiler diets, with a focus on growth performance, feed efficiency, and carcass characteristics. Findings from various studies suggest that moderate inclusion levels of Azolla can improve broiler performance without compromising meat quality. However, higher inclusion rates may result in anti-nutritional effects that limit its benefits. The paper aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the existing research, discussing the benefits, limitations, and future directions for the use of Azolla in poultry feed formulations.