← Back to Publications List

Impact of Utilizing Locally Available Feed Supplements (e.g., Azolla, Moringa) on Milk Production Efficiency and Rumen Microbiome of Dairy Cattle

Students & Supervisors

Student Authors
Samira Sultana
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Taseen Ahmed
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Mahdi Hassan Noor Asif
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Supervisors
Md. Mortuza Ahmmed
Associate Professor, Faculty, FST

Abstract

Enhanced interest in sustainable dairy production in light of resource scarcity has prompted searches for alternative feed supplies that are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Conventional cattle feeds can be expensive and also not well balanced for nutrition. Indigenous supplements like Azolla pinnata and Moringa oleifera are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, which could be possible replacements for commercial feeds. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of including Azolla and Moringa in dairy cow diets on milk production efficiency and rumen microbial composition, particularly on productivity, feed utilization, and diversity. Materials and methods Animals and diets Twenty four crossbred lactating cows were randomly divided into three groups; a control group with normal feed, an Azolla supplemented group (10% of total feed) and a Moringa supplemented one (10% of total feed). Feed period was 90 days. Milk production, fat content and FCE were measured. Rumen fluid samples were collected at 0, 45 and 90 days for microbial analysis via 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Azolla and Moringa supplementation both resulted in significantly higher milk yield and fat content than the control. Feed conversion efficiency was highest (p < 0.05) for the Moringa group. Rumen microbial fauna analysis showed an increase in favorable cellulolytic bacterial strains (Ruminococcus albus, Fibrobacter succinogenes) and a decrease in methane-producing archaea with improved fiber digestion and perhaps reduced methane production. The inclusion of locally available feed additives such as Azolla and Moringa can greatly enhance milk production per character unit by providing a better environment for rumen microbiome. These findings highlight the potential of sustainable, low-cost feeding strategies that enhance productivity and contribute to environmental sustainability in dairy farming."

Keywords

Azolla pinnata Moringa oleifera milk production rumen microbiota feed efficiency.

Publication Details

  • Type of Publication:
  • Conference Name: Gazipur Agricultural University International Conference (GAUIC 2025)
  • Date of Conference: 12/12/2025 - 12/12/2025
  • Venue: Gazipur Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh
  • Organizer: Gazipur Agricultural University
View on Publisher