The Study of Airborne Pollen and Spores in Akoko South West Environment of Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Airborne palynomorphs of Akoko South West Local Government environment, Ondo State, Nigeria were analysed palynologically to determine the taxa of biological and/or airborne palynomorphs present in the atmosphere. Out of the twenty-five pollen types belonging to seventeen plant families, consisting of thirteen dicotyledons and four monocotyledons encountered, three were identified to family level and twenty two to generic level. A total of 1,570 pollen grains, 273 fungal spores and 28 pteridophyte spores were documented. Other palynomophs documented include 33 burnt plant parts and 41 charred Poaceae cuticles. There were observable monthly fluctuations in the quantity of pollen grains and other palynomorphs encountered. The identified pollen types reflect the vegetation around the geographical area investigated. The result also showed the presence of anthropogenic activities on the local vegetation of the study environment