Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (1+1)

6.3.2.1. Application of Azolla in aquatic system

• Azolla is used in lake-agro ecosystem in inland fisheries and aquaculture, where water quality management is mandatory for prevention of water pollution and harvesting optimum production.
• The high organic loads associated with high BOD and COD results in eutrophication and render the water unsuitable for human and agricultural use.
• Azolla is a natural biophysical scavenger that absorbs and depletes the organic nutrient load of the eutrophic lake agro ecosystems rendering them oligotrophic and rejuvenated.
• In the lake agro ecosystem management, Azolla is useful in controlling eutrophication, maintenance of water quality and conservation of biological diversity.
• In addition, Azolla as already stated, is a powerful bio-agent capable of fixing atmospheric N₂ and releasing H₂.
• The biomass of the plant is useful for biogas production, as organic manure, poultry feed, and antifungal agent.
• As such, Azolla is not a bane but a boon if proper ecosystem management methods and ecofriendly technologies are used for sustainable development of the agro-lake ecosystems benefiting mankind.