[Influence of staining and mounting methods on Cryptomeria japonica and Cupressaceae pollen counts]

The staining and mounting method for measuring air-borne pollen differs at each institute resulting in discrepancies. We examined influence of staining and mounting methods on pollen counts of Cryptomeria japonica and Cupressaceae. Two Durham type pollen collection instruments, stored at the same place and holding slides coated with white vaseline, were exposed to the air for 24 hours. Pollen was counted using Calberla staining (C method) or gentiana-violet-glycerin jelly staining (G method). Results showed: 1) C method showed more variety than G method for measuring the pollen counts from the beginning to the end of the pollen season; 2) a significant coincidence was observed between counts measured by C and G methods (p < 0.001); and 3) the counts of Cryptomeria japonica and Cupressaceae measured by C method resulted in higher levels by 33.7% and 120.3%, respectively, than those counted by G method. We recommend that Calberla staining is preferable for regular nationwide pollen counts and that pollen count reports should include the collection and staining methods.