A Comparative Analytical Investigation of Airborne Palynomorphs within
Kogi State University Teaching Hospital, Anyigba, Nigeria.

Essien[1], B. C., Agwu[2], C. O. C. , [3]Taiga, A.
Page No. 136-142

Airborne palynomorphs of Kogi State University Teaching Hospital, Anyigba, Nigeria were
acetolysed and analysed palynologically to determine the taxa of biological importance present in
the atmosphere. The predominant and most frequently occurring palynomorphs types and spore
genera include those of Burnt Plant Epidermis, Insects/ insect parts, trilete spores of pteridophytes,
Dinoflagellate cysts, Johnson’s grass smut, Charred Poaceae Cuticle, Pithomyces, Curvularia, and
Botryodiplodia. The period of collection of palynomorphs (in months) does not affect the dispersal
mechanism and rate of concentration of these palynomorphs in the atmosphere. The palynomorphs
load of the entire study area varied quantitatively and qualitatively not only from month-to-month
but also from site-to-site. The variations in the monthly palynomorphs counts (of families) and
individual palynomorphs types at different sites suggest that the atmospheric concentration of
palynomorphs is influenced not only by the meteorological factors, but is essentially a function of
the frequency, density and abundance at a given locality. There were noticeable monthly
fluctuations in the quantity of palynomorphs counted. However, there was no significant differences
(P>0.05) in the total scores of palynomorphs trapped in the different months during the sampling
period. The presence and relative abundance of these palynomorphs in the atmosphere affirms the
great influence of anthropogenic activities on the local vegetation of the study environment. The
study has provided useful baseline information and data which could be used predictively in
forecasting season which is comparatively safe for those suffering from allergies.
Keywords: Airborne, Palynomorphs, Anyigba, Nigeria.