Effect of Azolla (Azolla pinnata) feeding on daily milk production in a crossbred cow under semi-intensive management in Kilinochchi district, Northern province Sri Lanka

Abstract

H Aruchchunan*

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Azolla feeding on daily milk production in smallholder dairy farm in Kilinochchi district, Northern province, Sri Lanka. Data were collected from a semi-intensive management smallholder dairy farmer who fed Azolla mixed with rice bran to the crossbreed milking cow fed with Azolla for the first time from 10^th April 2023 to 9^th May 2023. The daily milk production from the selected cow was recorded, and the thickness of milk and lactometer reading was also examined before and after Azolla feeding. The availability and nutrient composition of Azolla were considered in the analysis of the data. The study focused on a crossbreed milking cow fed with Azolla for the first time.

Results showed that the daily milk production of the selected cow gradually increased after the introduction of Azolla in the feeding regimen. The initial daily milk production was 2000 millilitres, which gradually increased to 2400-2500 millilitres in the last week of the study. The lactometer readings and milk thickness also showed improvement after the Azolla feeding.

The study recommends the use of Azolla in the feeding regimen of smallholder dairy farmers in Kilinochchi district. Azolla is a cheap and locally available alternative feed stuff, which can be mixed with rice bran to improve the palatability and increase the intake. Azolla also has a high nutrient content, which can contribute to the improved milk production of dairy cows. Smallholder dairy farmers can benefit from the use of Azolla, especially during the economic crisis when commercial cattle feed prices are high.

In conclusion, the introduction of Azolla in the feeding regimen of dairy cows can significantly improve the daily milk production in smallholder dairy farms in Kilinochchi district, Northern province.

Dairy farmers can benefit from the cheap and locally available alternative feedstuff, which can also improve the quality of milk produced. This method of feeding may be beneficial for smallholder dairy farmers who cannot afford expensive commercial feeds. Finally, to improve the success rate of Azolla feeding, dairy farmers must ensure that they mix it with other feedstuffs to increase its palatability.