Exploring the Multifaceted Benefits of Azolla: A Comprehensive Review of an Aquatic Fern’s Biological and Practical Contributions

Azolla, also known as “green gold” or “super plant,” is a nitrogen-fixing pteridophyte found in temperate and tropical freshwater ecosystems. This free-floating aquatic fern, native to Asia, Africa, and the Americas, thrives in diverse aquatic habitats, including swamps, ditches, lakes, and shallow rivers. It generates full biomass in a relatively short period of time. It acts as a nitrogen biofertilizer and boosts rice productivity. Beyond its role in agriculture, Azolla serves as a versatile resource, finding applications in livestock feed, human nutrition, hydrogen fuel production, biogas generation, pest control, and water purification. Notably, Azolla exhibits hyperaccumulation capabilities for various heavy metal contaminants and can effectively absorb ammonium and phosphorous from wastewater. Moreover, it possesses antimicrobial properties and a rich array of phytochemical compounds, promising multifaceted benefits in diverse fields. This review highlights the vast potential of Azolla, emphasizing its suitability for extensive research and development in food, feed, and fodder applications, as well as household cultivation and utilization. To fully harness the myriad advantages offered by Azolla and promote sustainability across various sectors, further exploration and investigation into its untapped applications remain imperative. Azolla holds the key to addressing numerous environmental, agricultural, and industrial challenges, paving the way for a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.