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Originally Posted by freeztar
What a great post Michael!
I must make some small corrections though: Azolla caroliniana
It is also known as Carolina Mosquitofern and is considered an invasive in parts of the tropics (inversely considered 'Exploitably Vulnerable' in NY state). And according to the second link below, it is blue-green algae causing the nitrogen fixing.
PLANTS Profile for Azolla caroliniana (Carolina mosquitofern) | USDA PLANTS
Tropica |
I didn't know it was considered invasive anywhere, I know some plants that are similar in appearence are invasive. many fish love to eat it so it doesn't always grow well in water that is occupied by vegetarian fishes. I provide lots of it to koi carp and gold fish ponds so the fish can eat it as a treat.
The blue-green algae are indeed bacteria. they are now considered cyanobacteria the cyanobacteria that fix nitrogen in (Azolla) is a microscopic filamentous blue-green alga or cyanobacterium (Anabaena azollae).
Here in SENC Azolla grows everywhere and can be culivated in vats or any container of water sitting the sun. In direct sun it often turns red but continues to grow like crazy. I harvest it on a regular basis and use it as compost and place of spagnum moss for growing orchids and other ferns. It also looks good used as a ground cover in bonsia trees. As long as it is kept damp it will grow as ground cover and it looks like a real scaled down moss or ferns in bonsia pots.
I also use it to purify the water in my aquariums i set up with out filters. I harvest the Azolla every few days off top of the water and it keeps the nutrient levels down.
Michael
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