Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (1+1)

6.3.2.2. Cultivation of Azolla

It is necessary to cultivate Azolla separately for aquaculture and resort to periodic application in fish ponds.

· A system comprises a network of earthen raceways (10.0 x 1.5 x 0.3 m) with facilities for water supply and drainage.

· The operation in each raceway consists of application of Azolla inoculum (6 kg), phosphatic fertilizer (50 g single super phosphate) and pesticide (carbofuron dip for inoculum at 1.2 ppm), maintenance of water depth of 5–10 cm and harvesting 18– 24 kg in a week’s time.

· The maintenance includes periodic removal of superficial earth layers with organic accumulation, dyke maintenance, application of bleaching powder for crab menace and algal blooms, etc.

· A unit of 0.1 ha area that can hold about 50 raceways is suitable for a family to be taken up as cottage industry in rural areas.

· Azolla can be cultured in puddles, drainage and shallow water stretches, at the outlets of ponds and tanks and hence prime agricultural land need not be used.