Benefits of Incorporating Azolla in Rice Cultivation: Weed Control, Nitrogen supply and Yield Increase

Duckweed are flowering aquatic plants which float on or just beneath the surface of still or slow-moving bodies of fresh water and wetlands. Azolla is also a genus of small aquatic ferns that are native to Asia, Africa, and the Americans. Azolla is regarded as Live Nitrogen Manufacturing Factory because, it harbors nitrogen fixing Cyanobacteria. Azolla has potential significance as a nitrogen source in agriculture, especially in conjunction with rice (Oryza sativa L.) culture. In addition, azolla may suppress weeds or be considered as a weed depending on management; with proper management, little interference occurs between rice and Azolla. This review concentrates on its role in weed control and another benefits in rice culture.