IDENTIFYING ALLERGENIC POLLEN PRODUCING PLANTS IN THE FLORA OF IĞDIR UNIVERSITY CAMPUS, TÜRKİYE

This study aims to identify plant taxa with the potential to produce allergenic pollen within the boundaries of Iğdır University's Şehit Bülent Yurtseven Campus, located in the easternmost part of Türkiye, and to evaluate these taxa from various perspectives.Pollen allergies are a significant public health issue that negatively impacts individuals' quality of life, particularly during spring and summer months.Accordingly, as a result of field observations and literature reviews conducted in the campus area, plant species with allergenic potential were identified and their seasonal distribution, density and relationship with environmental factors were analyzed.As a result of the research, a total of 92 plant taxa that may cause allergic reactions were identified within the borders of the campus.These plants were classified at the family level and evaluated in terms of life forms, flowering periods and allergen rates.According to the findings, 35 plants have low, 24 plants have medium and 33 plants have high allergenic potential.Additionally, recommendations have been developed for the use of these species in landscape design.The study aims to contribute to a healthier and more livable campus ecosystem by adopting an interdisciplinary approach between botany and health sciences.