Comparative evaluation of ‘Azolla’ with Wheat Bran & Mustard Cake in Cross Breed Cow

Abstract

Abstract

          Azolla is used as an ideal feed for cattle as it is rich in proteins, essential amino acids, vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin B12 and Beta- Carotene), growth promoter intermediaries and minerals like calcium, phosphorous, potassium, ferrous, copper, magnesium etc. Twenty cross breed cattle subjected to this present study were randomly divided in to four groups with following feeding schedule; Group I-   FP (paddy straw with wheat bran & mustard cake (2, kg/anim./day); Group II - Paddy straw + concentrate mix. (2 kg/animal/day); Group III F.P.  + Azolla (1.5kg/animal/day) and Group IV - F.P + concentrate mix. + Azolla. At the age of 4 month, a significantly increase in milk production were observed in all group except group I. Significant increase in milk production in Group III indicate that ‘Azolla’ may be used as low-cost protein and mineral supplement in cross bred cow feed. Increase in Fat% in group III & IV, showed that Azolla can be used for quality milk production. No any health/ disease problem like diarrhea and anorexia etc. were observed in any group. No any significant rise/decrease in SNF% were observed in any group. Rate of milk in group IV i.e. animal feeding wheat bran, MM, Azola and concentrate mixture were superior after 4 months of observation.  

Keywords: Azolla, cross breed, mineral mixture.