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Environmental Botany

Plants interact with the environment, reflecting biotic and abiotic changes. Plant biodiversity and phenology are studied as response indicators, including those relating to human health.

Image: graminacee_habitat_tagliata

Mission

The interactions between plants and their environment are investigated, to better understand the effects of global change, including those related to human health. Our specific objectives are to verify the qualitative and quantitative changes in airborne biological particulates, with emphasis on allergenic and phytopathogen components; and to evaluate the effects of atmospheric pollutants and climate change on plant health, and their ability to provide of ecosystem services.

Innovation and methods

The research is based on bioaerosol sampling and analysis using optical microscopy and molecular techniques; pollen vitality and germination tests; measurements of functional leaf traits.

Facilities

Aerobiology

We monitor and study airborne pollen and the main allergenic and pathogenic spores in both field and laboratory conditions, and test the vitality and responses of plants related to human and ecosystem health and productivity in agriculture and forestry.

Further details

Image: CRI-FEM-Foto-Marco-Parisi-14

Projects