Pollen and Spores
Analysis of pollen from various sources, etc.
The study of pollen and spores is known as palynology. Pollen grains are produced in the flowers or cones of seed plants and contain sexual reproductive cells. The grains are transported to fertilize other plants by wind or by various animals, mainly insects. Other plants such as ferns have a different life cycle and produce spores, asexual reproductive cells capable of developing into adults. The taxonomy of pollen and spores has been widely researched. These microparts are highly resistant to degradation and may remain preserved in sediments for many thousands of years.
Spores of Stachybotrus are included in this analysis. This fungus is associated with leaky buildings.