Azolla: A Better Prospective for Biological Nitrogen Fixation and Sustainable Agriculture in Era of Climate Change

Abstract

The use of nitrogen in an efficient way in agriculture has economic as well as environmental challenges. Bio-fertilizers and green manures are eco-friendly and economical sources for enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) for sustainable agriculture. In the era of climate change, conjunctive application of both bio-fertilizers and chemical fertilizers is required for soil health and sustainable yield as well. Azolla is one of the Biofertilizer that has the potential to fix nitrogen biologically, increase nitrogen recovery and enhance the rice yield. The regular application of Azolla significantly increases soil organic nitrogen content, which is much more beneficial than inorganic nitrogen. Azolla possesses the potential to mitigate major problems that are of global concern and can be used as a multi-faceted biofertilizer. Usage of Azolla in agriculture has various advantages as it has a positive impact on enhanced productivity and reduces input costs. They are also involved in the bioremediation of heavy metals and several toxic pollutants. Hence, it possesses great potential for its usage as a biofertilizer in the era of climate change.