[Comparison between real-time pollen monitor KH-3000 and Burkard sampler]

Special apparatus capable of instantly measuring airborne Cryptomeria japonica pollen grains were recently appeared on the market. We examined one of them called real-time pollen monitor KH-3000 (Yamato Manufacturing Co. Ltd.). To confirm the accuracy of the monitor, comparison was made with conventional Burkard Seven-Day Recording Volumetric Spore Trap operating simultaneously at the same place. Most peaks from KH-3000 were coincided with Cry j 1 from Burkard sampler, and the greater part of the counts from KH-3000 had a strong resemblance to the counts from Cry j 1. Therefore, it is confirmed that KH-3000 counts the numbers of airborne C. japonica pollen grains. KH-3000 sometimes counts particles which do not belong to pollen grains, however. It is also confirmed that some pollens other than C. japonica, such as walnut (Juglans spp.) pollen, a part of grass pollen were counted.