Literature on Basic Palynology

The occurrence of airborne fungi at an urban coastal site was compared with that at a rural inland site in the South of Sardinia. Spore concentrations at the two sites differed markedly with lower concentrations at the urban site but the spore types found were similar. The general trend of the fungal airspores was also very similar at both sites as a result of the similar climatic conditions.

Mould spore concentrations were greatest in late spring (May-June) and autumn (October-November) with a decrease during summer months at both sites sampled. Cladosporium was the most common spore type identified followed by Basidiomycetes, Alternaria, Fusarium. These taxa are well known as allergens. It is recommended that further aeromycological surveys should be performed in different areas to determine the clinical importance of fungi as allergens in Sardinia.