windcarried

Windcarried is an adjective used to describe materials or organisms that are transported by wind. In ecology and atmospheric science, windcarried particles include pollen, seeds, spores, dust, pollutants, and other aerosols. The term emphasizes movement through the air as a primary dispersal or transport mechanism, distinct from waterborne or animal-mediated transport.

Transport depends on wind speed and turbulence, particle size, shape, density, and atmospheric conditions. Very small particles can remain suspended in air for long distances (aerosols), while larger seeds or dust may travel short to moderate distances or be lofted by gusts. Deposition occurs when air resistance, gravity, or obstacles cause particles to settle. Boundary layer effects, topography, and weather events such as storms can modulate both transport and deposition patterns.

Examples of windcarried material include pollen released by flowering plants, dandelion or milkweed seeds with fluffy attachments, willow seeds, and other fluff-covered propagules; desert dust and wildfire smoke; fungal spores; and various airborne pollutants or microorganisms. Windcarried seeds play a crucial role in plant gene flow and colonization, while dust and pollutants influence air quality and visibility.

Ecological and public health implications are diverse. Windcarried mechanisms enable plant reproduction and species migration but can spread invasive species, allergenic pollen, or pathogens. Researchers study windcarried processes using air sampling, lidar and other remote sensing, particle counters, and dispersion models to assess transport, deposition, and exposure risks. See also wind dispersal, aerosols, pollen, and air quality.