Palynology
Palynology, the analysis of fossil and sub-fossil pollen and spores, is used typically to produce a picture of vegetation change from organic and minerogenic sediments. This work can be used to support palaeoenvironmental reconstruction and climate change studies. Sediment samples can be derived from terrestrial (soils, peats, lake muds), coastal and even marine environments. Palynology can also be used to support archaeological investigations.
Preparation facilities for the extraction and concentration of palynomorphs from organic and minerogenic sediments are located within a designated clean-room environment. The equipment includes a fume cupboard with scrubber unit, centrifuge, vortex mixer and heating block. Standard pollen preparation techniques (NaOH, HF, Acetolysis, Alcohols) are regularly undertaken in this facility. Dense media separations are possible. Residues are typically mounted in silicone fluid, although glycerol may sometimes be used.
The pollen facility has a dozen high power light microscopes (six research, six teaching) for the examination of pollen-rich residues. A video camera and monitor are used for teaching, discussion and the capturing of images. Data are processed using Tilia and Tilia Graph programs.
Current expertise at St. Andrews lies with the Holocene and Devensian flora of NW Europe. Work in this area is supported by an extensive type slide collection and a range of appropriate textbooks. Future developments to support the interests of new staff will include micro-sieving techniques for coastal and offshore sediments and the expansion of our restricted tropical pollen type collection with a pictorial database.
Contact Dr Margaret Donaldson for further details.
