Almaguer CM, Rojas TI, Pérez D, Sánchez EKC

Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 1-15
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ABSTRACT

Introduction: the genus Ganoderma is widely distributed in Havana and produces a large number of basidiospores that are released into the air. These spores are allergenic and have been related to respiratory problems; therefore, determination of their temporal dynamics is useful for allergology.
Objective: determine the temporal variation of Ganoderma basidiospores in the atmosphere of Havana in a four-year period.
Methods: systematic aeromycological sampling was conducted in Havana from January 2013 to December 2016 using a Lanzoni VPPS 2000 sampler. For identification and counting of the spores, two longitudinal transepts were observed in each daily preparation under bright-field microscopy. Estimation was made of the relative frequency and relative density of the basidiospores, as well as of the temporal variation of their concentration and correlation with meteorological variables.
Results: the presence of Ganoderma was greater during the years 2013 and 2015. Maximum daily concentration values showed seasonality toward the rainy season, with higher intraday percentages of spores during the night. Concentration correlated positively with temperature, relative humidity and precipitation.
Conclusions: atmospheric content of Ganoderma varied between the study years; however, maximum daily values occurred during the rainy season and prevailed during the night. The correlation between concentration and meteorological variables suggests that the tropical conditions of Havana have an impact on its seasonality.