Monitoring of the airborne pollen diversity in the urban area of San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina

Abstract

The aim of this paper was monitoring the airborne pollen diversity in the San Salvador de Jujuy city during one year, in order to document its richness and seasonal dynamics, as well as to detect pollen grains with allergenic potential and to elaborate a pollen calendar. The sampling period lasted from August 2011to July 2012. Airborne pollen monitoring was performed using a gravimetric Durham trap. A total of 56 pollen types were identified, of which 49% belong to native flora of Yungas, 32% to exotic flora and 19% to undefined origin. Regarding to the distance of sources to the trap, 71% is located within a ratio of 2km (Local), 24% coming from distance up to 5 km (Extra-local) and 5% are sources placed more than 5km (Regional). Eighteen pollen types with allergenic potential were detected, of which 15 are present in significant percentages. Pollen calendar shows the variation in the monthly relative frequency of the main pollen types.During the late winter, Morus, Alnus acuminata, Salix humboltiana and Pinus were identified as main emission sources. In spring, enhanced the richness of the local flora was observed. Exotic plants especially angiosperms (Fraxinus excelsior, Eucalyptus, Callistemon and Platanus acerifolia) dominated. There are also extra-local contributions of native species (Celtis, Anadenanthera colubrina and Parapiptadenia excelsa). During the summer, pollen richness declines and the NAP of herbs plants remains in high abundance (Poaceae, Amaranthaceae-Chenopodiaceae, Urticaceae) together with Casuarina cunninghamiana and Ulmus, but decreases progressively in autumn. In early winter, Cupressus predominates and regional contributions of A. acuminata are registered. Results revels the presence of allergenic pollen during the entire year. Considering the importance of public health, this study is a good reference to take criteria for selecting species on the planning of the plantation of urban trees in the city.