Airborne Pollen Seasonality of Kars Province, a high-altitude region in NE Anatolia-Türkiye

Abstract

Aeropalynological studies quantify pollen taxa present in the atmosphere and elucidate their seasonal variations and regional distribution, which is vital for the precise diagnosis and management of sensitive individuals. Utilizing a Hirst-type volumetric 7-day pollen and spore trap during 2012 and 2013, this study conducted an aerobiological investigation in Kars province, Türkiye, a region characterized by high altitude and severe climate.

Across the two-year study period, an average annual pollen concentration of 14,931 pollen/m³ was recorded with 39 taxa identified, with 29.31% woody, 70.58% herbaceous, and 0.11% unidentified. The peak pollen concentrations were recorded in June. The seven most dominant taxa were Poaceae, Pinaceae, Artemisia, Amaranthaceae, Urticaceae, Quercus, Cupressaceae/Taxaceae. The data indicated a significant risk period for individuals with pollen allergies from June to July. Statistical analyses were performed to investigate the correlation between the daily pollen concentrations of the dominant pollen types and the variables. The results demonstrated that an increase in temperature was positively correlated with higher pollen counts, whereas increased average relative humidity was associated with reduced pollen concentrations.

Notably, herbaceous pollen taxa were more prevalent in Kars, which contrasts with the results of studies conducted in other regions. Additionally, the main pollen season starts approximately six weeks later than that in lower altitudes areas, which is likely attributable to distinctive regional ecological factors. These findings underscore the importance of localized aerobiological monitoring for effective public health responses to pollen allergies.

Keywords:

• Airborne pollen
• Pollen calendar
• Kars
• Volumetric trap
• North-East Anatolia

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