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This paper provides an updated of airborne Alternaria spore spatial and temporal distribution patterns in the Iberian Peninsula, using a common non-viable volumetric sampling method. The highest mean annual spore counts were recorded in Sevilla (39,418 spores), Mérida (33,744) and Málaga (12,947), while other sampling stations never exceeded 5,000. The same cities also recorded the highest mean daily spore counts (Sevilla 109 spores m; Mérida 53 spores m and Málaga 35 spores m) and the highest number of days on which counts exceeded the threshold levels required to trigger allergy symptoms (Sevilla 38 % and Mérida 30 % of days). Analysis of annual spore distribution patterns revealed either one or two peaks, depending on the location and prevailing climate of sampling stations. For all stations, average temperature was the weather parameter displaying the strongest positive correlation with airborne spore counts, whilst negative correlations were found for rainfall and relative humidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cladosporium spores are ubiquitous in the air and are included in the fungal contaminants that define environmental quality. This paper provides an updated review of their concentration in the Iberian Peninsula, based on data from 12 sampling stations collected using a common non-viable volumetric sampling method and the same subsequent data-treatment techniques. The database comprised 84 annual periods, covering the period 1993–2009. Mean annual total spore concentrations for each station, calculated as the sum of daily concentrations, ranged from 54 459 in Cartagena to 933 485 in Sevilla; other sampling stations recorded annual total spores between 93 052 (Porto) and 579 953 (Mérida). Analysis of annual spore-distribution patterns revealed either one or two peaks (spring and fall) depending on the location and prevailing climate of the area where the sampling stations have been placed. For all stations, average temperature was the meteorological parameter displaying the strongest positive correlation with airborne spore concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]