Volumetric Aerobiological Survey of Conidial Fungi in the North‐East Netherlands

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Abstract
To obtain actual data about the qualitative and quantitative occurrence of airborne fungi in The Netherlands, a viable-volumetric sample survey with the Andersen sampler was undertaken. From April 1981 to the end of June 1983, 1 day a week samples were taken on the unobstructed rooftop of a hospital in the northeast Netherlands. An average of 268 colony-forming units/sample/m3 of air were found. Almost 3/4 of the total catch consisted of 7 genera, Cladosporium predominating. Botrytis showed in surprisingly high numbers when compared with other surveys, while Alternaria occurred in view low concentrations. Most atmospheric airborne spora were found between May and Sept. Aspergillus and Penicillium prevailed in the autumn and winter, although they were present the year-round. Momentary weather conditions seemed less important for the overall spore picture than the average meteorological characteristics for a whole season. The obtained aero-mycological information may be useful in determining clinical strategies for skin testing and serological investigations in patients with suspected mold allergies.