Our center, with administrative support, held a workshop on “Pollen Diversity and Its Applications in Classification and Evolution” on Sunday, February 2, 2025, as part of its ongoing scientific activities. The workshop was organized by the workshops and seminars committee, led by Assistant Professor Dr. Hana Hani Al-Saffar, and managed by Assistant Lecturer Ali Kamel Wanas. Assistant Lecturer Zainab Ghazi Sadiq presented the workshop.
The presentation covered the history of pollen grain identification, their various types and shapes, and methods for their classification and study. The workshop aimed to promote increased research on pollen grains of species within the Iraqi environment and to encourage the use of modern diagnostic techniques for a deeper understanding of plant families.
The researcher’s recommendations included:
- Using pollen analysis to resolve taxonomic uncertainties between species and genera, leading to a better understanding of plant classification.
- Utilizing pollen morphology in paleontology to track organic material and interpret the fossil record.
- Recognizing the importance of pollen morphology in tracing the origin, evolution, and diversification of angiosperms.
- Highlighting Doyle’s (2005) conclusions regarding plant evolution based on pollen grain characteristics.
- Noting the use of pollen in forensic science for solving crimes.
We wish all the faculty of our center continued success in their service to society, science, and knowledge.