Blue-green algae for rice production. A manual for its promotion

This manual is designed to give detailed, practical advice on the various methodologies of organic recycling. Blue-green algae form a self-sufficient system which is capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen in organic forms and which grows upon a free water surface. It is thus ideally suited for propagation in rice fields. The development and use of blue-green algae require special techniques. The manual summarizes the present status of algal biofertilizer technology for rice with practical information for its adoption by agricultural extension personnel and subject matter specialists. If properly extended, the technology holds the promise of providing 25-30 kg N/ha every season to the growing crop. It also holds the promise of generating rural income and employment. The ultimate success of the technology depends not only on creating an awareness but also on building a trained manpower reserve capable of applying the existing knowledge and carrying out further research.