By Kayla, Founder, Third Orbit Flora
After a study was done by NASA, it became clear that ferns are some of the best natural air filters, helping to absorb CO2 and turn it into oxygen.
But ferns aren't just good for air filtration. According to an article from Penn State University, There is an aquatic fern commonly called "azolla", "mosquito fern", or "fairy moss" that is useful for its ability to rapidly double its biomass (in only two days!) and capture nitrogen from the air.
These super powers allow this plant to be grown as a crop that is used in creating green fertilizer for other crops, and is even nutritious enough to be fed to poultry and livestock. Although good for livestock, most species of azolla have a high acidity content, too high for humans to digest without hurting.
That said, researchers at Penn State University have conducted a study that suggests one common species of azolla, commonly called "Carolina azolla" has a lower acidity level that can be reduced even further by cooking. This lets humans digest it, allowing the body to be able to absorb the nutrients. Apparently, the fern has a neutral taste and crisp texture, and even has a moderate amount of protein.
Having a nutritious food source that grows rapidly and requires minimal upkeep could provide an essential facet to solving food insecurity, or having a crop that can be relied on after a catastrophe!
The lead researcher, Daniel Winstead discusses the potential uses of this fern in an article published by Penn State University. He believes this common plant could help solve one of the world's oldest problems, saying,
"If systems for azolla cultivation and preparation can be made more efficient, its indoor or outdoor cultivation after natural disasters could provide supplemental nutrient production that are climate resilient.”
Winstead also notes that the plant needs further development, and even the U.S. space program has looked at including Carolina azolla in its research on plants in space. Could we be close to finding a viable way to ease hunger on earth, and survive in space?
- Kayla, Third Orbit Flora
Source article: https://www.psu.edu/news/research/story/common-plant-could-help-reduce-food-insecurity-researchers-find/
Photo Credit: Adobe Stock image of Carolina azolla growing in some water.