The aerobiological significance of smut spores in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Few aerobiological studies have focused on smut spores, teliospores of fungi within the order Ustilaginales, but the scientific literature provides evidence of the potential aerobiological significance of these plant pathogens. The atmosphere in Tulsa, Oklahoma was monitored for the presence of smut teliospores using a Burkard Volumetric Spore Trap. Smut spores were identified in the atmospheric samples every day from May to October during 1991 and 1992 at concentrations that were normally below 1000 spores/m 3. The peak concentration observed during this study was almost 6000 spores/m 3. Daily concentrations fluctuate due to a variety of factors such as precipitation, relative humidity, percent sunshine, and the phenology of fungi in relation to their hosts. In northeastern Oklahoma, the most prevalent species of smuts in the atmosphere during the spring include Sphacelotheca occidentalis, Ustilago tritici, and U. kolleri. In the fall, spores of U. brumivora, U. bullata, and U. maydis are more common.