Alternaria and Cladosporium are strongly associated with allergic diseases. Alternaria is found widespread in plants, colonizing all stages of plant growth. Cladosporium species are widespread and can be found everywhere on organic material. The aim of this study was to determine dispersion of both moulds in the Ankara atmosphere and compare spore number in relation to seasonal changes.
Atmospheric spores were collected during a one year period in Ankara City. Ankara is situated 39.55 N, 32,5 E in North-east central Anatolia. Samples were obtained by a 7-day continuous volumetric trap installed about 15 m above ground level, on the roof of the Hacettepe University Hospital.
This study was made during 2004 - 2005. During this time both form-genera were present throughout the year in the atmosphere of Ankara. Alternaria reached the highest concentrations in the summer months, with maximum levels in August. In April concentrations of Cladosporium start to increase, reaching a maximum of about 54,040 spores/m3 in September.
An increase in maximum temperature and precipitation produced an increase in Cladosporium spore concentrations. Increases in Alternaria concentration were due to abundant precipitation. When relative humidity and the other factors are optimal, wind speed had a large influence on the Alternaria and Cladosporium concentrations.