Incidence of Alternaria spores in the atmosphere of Murcia (SE Spain). Seasonal, monthly and intradiurnal variations.

Variation in Alternaria spores in the atmosphere of Murcia (SE Spain) were studied for 2 years. Using a Burkard volumetric sampler located about 19 m above ground level, spores were collected and counted hourly by light microscopy. The results suggest that species of Alternaria are present in the atmosphere of Murcia every day throughout the year. Mean daily concentration of Alternaria was 25 spores/m3. Seasonal variations showed the lowest concentrations during winter and the highest in autumn. In the monthly pattern two peaks were observed every year: the first in about May-June and the second occurring in October. In the intradiurnal variations, maximum concentrations were observed between 5:00-6:00 p.m. (Spanish official time). The variation of Alternaria spores in the atmosphere in Murcia seems to be related to different factors throughout the year.