Evaluation of Pollen Grains and Spores Potential in Revealing Vehicle Travel History on the Ife-Ondo Road, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

This study focuses on the significance of airborne pollen grains and spores as markers for tracking vehicles along specific routes. Using standard methods, the research examined monthly pollen distribution and its correlation with meteorological data. Dust and soot samples were collected monthly from the car air filters of commercial vehicles traveling on the Ife-Ondo road and subjected to palynological analysis for a period of 24 months. The findings revealed a total of 393 pollen grains and 131 spores, representing 40 pollen and 22 spore types from 27 and 17 families, respectively. Notable markers among these include Hagenia abyssinica, Podocarpus milanjianus, Theobroma cacao, Cannabis sativa, and Myrianthus arboreus, among others. These markers serve as crucial identifiers for vehicle-related investigations. The study revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between monthly total airborne pollen concentrations and relative humidity, rainfall, and wind speed. In a practical context, the study has created a valuable dataset and monthly atlas of pollen and spore types. This resource can be instrumental for security agencies in their efforts to investigate vehicle-related crimes and monitor vehicular movements along the Ife-Ondo road.