DOI: 10.11648/j.ajset.20261104.14 ISSN: 2578-8353

Azolla as an Extra Supplement to Maintain Milk Quantity of Dairy Cows During Winter

Arati Pradhan, Namita Panigrahi, Puspanjali Maharana, Padma Patra, Souri Pradhan
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The climate of Koraput district in Odisha supports the growth of different types of green plants, with moderate temperatures, good rainfall, and varied landforms. Azolla pinnata, a small water fern that grows well between 20°C and 30°C, is easily found in this area and can be used as a low-cost protein source for dairy animals. During the winter season (November to February), the lower temperatures usually reduce how much cows eat and graze, which can lead to a drop in milk production and financial difficulties for small farmers. This study was carried out to see how effective fresh Azolla pinnata is when used to partly replace the commercial cattle feed during winter season. A feeding trial of 90 days was carried out at Tuna Dairy Farm in Semiliguda Block, Koraput, during the winter seasons from 2023 to 2025. Twenty lactating Jersey crossbred cows were selected and divided into two groups of ten each. One group was given normal commercial feed, while the other group received 1.5 kg fresh Azolla daily in two parts along with the regular feed. Milk yield was recorded every day and compared between both groups. During the trial periods, feeding Azolla showed a good increase in milk production. By the end of the 90 days, Azolla produced cows given about 2–3 litres more milk per day as compared to the control group. The results suggest that locally grown Azolla can minimize the drop in milk yield during winter and serve as a low-cost and nutritious feed option for dairy farmers in the Koraput area.

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