Influence of meteorological parameters in hourly patterns of grass (Poaceae) pollen concentrations

Hourly grass pollen concentrations were recorded over a 10-year study period at an aerobiological station of Badajoz (SW Spain). The record was carried out by means of a Burkard spore trap. Meteorological data were used to find correlation with the hourly patterns in the months of principal concentration. The observed variations were found to be due to independent contributions of patterns corresponding to different groups of species within the family of grasses. Three pollen concentrations peaks were recognized. Peak A, at around 10:00 h, of great importance in April and May, although maintained until July; peak B, at around 15:00 h, important in April, May and June; and peak C, towards the end of the day, dominant in July. Differences with respect to the pollen sources responsible for these peaks are suggested by the influence of the meteorological parameters before and during flowering. The results are directly applicable to the epidemiology of allergies in the zone, since the thresholds of grass pollen concentrations capable of triggering allergic processes shift from the central hours of the day in April and May to the night hours in July. Also, considering the observed patterns of hourly grass pollen concentrations as the result of combining different models could explain the annual and geographical variations found at other locations.