Azolla

Azolla Report

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1. Azolla (Mosquito Fern)

Alternate Names:

• Mosquito Fern
• Water Fern
• Fairy Moss

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2. Chart of Uses

Use Case	Index
Biofertilizer in Rice Cultivation	{{ct
Animal Feed Supplement	{{ct
Water Quality Improvement	{{ct
Mosquito Larvae Control	{{ct
Carbon Sequestration	{{ct
Potential Human Food Source	{{ct

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3. Warnings

• Invasive Potential: Azolla can rapidly cover water surfaces, potentially disrupting local ecosystems by blocking sunlight and reducing oxygen levels, which can harm aquatic life. citeturn0search4
• Oxygen Depletion: Dense mats of Azolla can lead to oxygen depletion in water bodies, potentially causing fish kills. citeturn0search4
• Maintenance Requirements: Regular monitoring and management are necessary to prevent uncontrolled spread in non-native areas.

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4. Active Compounds

• Nitrogen-Fixing Cyanobacteria (Anabaena azollae): Azolla harbors a symbiotic relationship with this cyanobacterium, enabling it to fix atmospheric nitrogen, thereby enriching the soil. citeturn0search9
• Phenolic Compounds: These contribute to Azolla's antioxidant properties, beneficial in animal diets.

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5. Natural Sources

• Freshwater Bodies: Azolla naturally thrives in ponds, lakes, swamps, and slow-moving streams, often forming dense mats on the water surface. citeturn0search4
• Cultivated Water Systems: Intentionally introduced in rice paddies and aquaculture systems for its biofertilizing and water-conditioning benefits.

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*Note: Azolla's rapid growth and nitrogen-fixing abilities make it a valuable resource in agriculture and environmental management. However, its potential invasiveness necessitates careful control to prevent ecological imbalance.*

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