A note on the quantitative survey of pollen: Harry B. Wilmer and Herbert M. Cobe, Philadelphia, Pa. (For original article, see page 63)

Abstract

1.1. A botanical survey of the hay fever plants in the metropolitan area of Phoenix, Arizona, is presented.2.2. Data are given concerning the kind, concentration, and seasonal occurrence of the atmospheric pollen grains and fungous spores found during a one-year investigation conducted from June 1, 1957, through May 31, 1958, in Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona.3.3. Morus species (mulberry) and Fraxinus velutina (Arizona ash) are found to be the most important tree pollinators contaminating the air in the spring. Franseria species (false ragweeds) and Cynodon dactylon (Bermuda grass) are heavy pollinators that reach anthesis in the spring and shed pollen sporadically through the summer and fall. (Contrary to popular belief, only one grass—Bermuda—was found to shed great enough concentrations of pollen to be considered significantly important as a general allergen.) Amaranthus palmeri (careless weed) and Atriplex species (saltbush) are heavy contributors to the atmospheric pollen in the summer and fall months, the careless weed being the most important. Finally, the fungous spores are found in the air year round, with spores of Alternaria species the most prevalent.4.4. It is concluded that a definite allergy problem exists in the Phoenix area and the Salt River Valley, as evidenced by the presence of allergens in the air throughout the year.