1Faculty of Ocean Science and Technology, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi-682 506, Kerala, India
2Fish Processing Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Kochi-682 506, Kerala, India
*Corresponding Author: Parvathy U., Fish Processing Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Kochi-682 506, Kerala, India, Email: parvathy.u@icar.gov.in
Online published on 27 February, 2026.
Azolla, a sustainable and nutrient-dense biomass, has significant potential for human nutrition and as a functional ingredient in seafood products. This study aimed to compare biomass yield, nutrient composition and drying efficiency between two species, Azolla pinnata and Azolla caroliniana.
Both Azolla species were cultivated under controlled aquatic conditions. The harvested biomass was processed using three drying methods: sun drying, cabinet tray drying and hot-air oven drying (40-45°C for 4-6 hours). Drying efficiency was evaluated based on nutrient retention, rehydration capacity and product stability. Culture medium parameters such as dissolved ammonia and total hardness were monitored for correlation with biomass yield and protein content. Proximate composition analysis was conducted on dried samples.
Cabinet tray drying showed the highest nutrient retention and rehydration capacity among the drying methods tested. Improved biomass yield and protein content corresponded with reduced dissolved ammonia and total hardness in the culture medium. On a dry-weight basis, proximate composition ranged as moisture 4.70-5.50%, ash 16.53-17.85%, protein 22.05-22.99%, fat 4.19-4.72%, carbohydrates 49.54-51.72% and fiber 13.53-18.07%. Azolla pinnata exhibited higher nutrient density compared to A. caroliniana. Overall, cabinet tray-dried A. pinnata was identified as a promising functional ingredient for enhancing the nutritional profile of seafood formulations.
Azolla caroliniana, Azolla cultivation, Azolla pinnata, Drying, Nutritional composition, Rehydration
