• ABHILAKSHA
• Ashok Singh

Azolla had, high multiplication rate, excellent source of protein for mono-gastric animals, high biomass production and increasing demand as organic food. Azolla is one of the aquatic Pteridophyte that may be used as animal food, as green manure, biofertilizer, for increasing soil fertility, bioremediation of waste water and reclamation of saline soils. Due to its high nutritional values and protein content Azolla is suitable for human consumption and as feed supplement for variety of animals like fish, ducks, cattle, poultry etc. to reduce feed cost. It also finds use in biogas and hydrogen production, as space food, in controlling weeds and mosquitoes. The present paper gives an overview of some important ecological factors affecting Azolla’s growth over the past few decades. Moreover, for the most ecological variables discussed in this study, the authors refer to their recent publications for the habitat requirements of Azolla in Anzali wetland. Water availability is the key factor for its growth. Growth is further promoted by optimal light intensity (15-18 Klux), temperature (18°- 28°C) and relative humidity (55-83%). Wind and turbulent water can fragment and kill Azolla. The importance of both macro (e.g. phosphorus, nitrogen, potassium, calcium and magnesium) and micronutrients (e.g. molybdenum, cobalt and etc.) has also been confirmed from literature. Various types of insects (e.g. caterpillars), bacteria, fungi and viruses can affect Azolla growth. As a conclusion, understanding the habitat requirements of Azolla is very helpful for managing this aquatic fern, also for decision making in the context of wetland restoration and conservation management.

Azolla, Bioremediation, Biogas, Reclamation, Sesbania, Desalinate, Sporulation and Fluctuations.

"Potential and Growth factor of Pteridophyte : Azolla", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 2, page no.102-111, February-2019, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1902E93.pdf

"Potential and Growth factor of Pteridophyte : Azolla", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 2, page no. pp102-111, February-2019, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1902E93.pdf