ibclogo XVI International Botanical Congess


Abstract Number: 3416
Session = 8.7.4


THE AIR SPORA


E. Levetin, Univ. of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK


The atmosphere contains an incredible diversity of airborne spores. Many are allergenic and some are recognized as pathogens. During warm, sunny conditions, the air spora is dominated by conidia of Cladosporium, Alternaria, Drechslera, Epicoccum, and smut teliospores which peak in the afternoon. Temp and soil dryness are significant factors that explain variability in concentration. Ascospore levels are positively correlated with rain, RH, and temp. Airborne basidiospores peak in late night and pre-dawn hours and show significant correlation with soil moisture and dew point. No single regression model predicts the atmospheric concentration of all basidiospores, possibly reflecting life-style differences among orders. Overall, airborne spores show complex relationships with meteorological parameters, but soil moisture is a significant predicator of many types.


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