Annual and diurnal incidence of Cladosporium conidia in the atmosphere of Córdoba, Spain.

ABSTRACT

The presence of Cladosporium conidia in the atmosphere of Córdoba, a city in Southern Spain, was studied. Samplings were carried out over a three-year period in the form of hourly analyses by use of a Hirst volumetric inert collection medium trap, located 15 meters above ground level. The results obtained suggest that conidia from species of this genus are present in the atmosphere of Córdoba throughout the year. The mean of the concentrations obtained during the study period was 1065 conidia/m3 day. The conidium concentration show a markedly seasonal variation pattern, with two annual peaks (one in June and the other in September-October). The incidence of Cladosporium conidia in Córdoba appears to be determined mainly by the temperature and relative humidity. As regards intradiurnal variation, the number of Cladosporium conidia peaks between 8 and 10 pm, with a minimum between 5 and 6 am.