Evaluation of a Method for the Reassessment of air Quality by Lichen Mapping in the City of İzmir, Turkey

Authors: MAJA SOMMERFELDT, VOLKER JOHN

Abstract: The occurrence of lichens and air pollution in the city of İzmir were investigated according to VDI-Guideline 3799 Part 1. In all, 45 epiphytic lichen species were found in 1092 releves. Different distribution patterns discriminated in the study area were used to evaluate air quality. A predominant part of the city area is heavily polluted; this pollution decreases in green spaces and in the outer zone of the study area. The best air quality values were determined in the southern and western parts of the city zone. A value of 7.3 for the width of the air quality classes shows that the method is suitable for similar studies in Turkey.

Keywords: Lichens, air pollution, air quality, mapping method, İzmir, Turkey

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