Temporal and spatial dynamics of bioaerosol particles through integrated monitoring approach of local air distribution patterns

Atmospheric microorganisms play a crucial role in cloud formation and climate processes, yet understanding their spatial and temporal dynamics remains a significant challenge. To advance our knowledge of atmospheric microbial ecology and transport processes, our research team initiated a multi-dimensional study in 2023 that examines the complex interactions between airborne microorganisms and their atmospheric environment. The study encompasses five integrated components: continuous real-time bioaerosol monitoring coupled with meteorological measurements, weekly microbiological community analysis using high-volume air samplers, monthly high-altitude microbial sampling via light aircraft at 1600 m above sea level, multi-level atmospheric monitoring using a 123-meter tower, and planned sampling in cloud-prone regions.

Our monitoring efforts revealed distinct temporal patterns in microbial abundance and distribution. While total particle concentrations showed minimal diurnal variation, biological particle counts exhibited pronounced daily fluctuations during the late summer and early autumn months (August-October), with this pattern notably absent during the winter period (November-March). Spatial analysis across monitoring sites demonstrated consistent total particle distributions but heterogeneous biological particle patterns, suggesting strong influences of local environmental factors on microbial dynamics. Community structure analysis indicated that under typical conditions, atmospheric microorganisms predominantly originated from local sources rather than long-range transport, highlighting the importance of surface-atmosphere exchange processes.

These findings contribute to our understanding of the atmosphere as a dynamic component of Earth's microbiome, where microorganisms actively participate in biological, chemical, and physical processes. Future research will focus on elucidating the mechanisms governing microbial survival and activity in the atmosphere, including their responses to environmental stressors and their potential influence on atmospheric processes.