Data from: Collector motion affects particle capture in physical models and in wind pollination

Particle capture is important for ecological processes in aquatic and
terrestrial ecosystems. The current model is based on a stationary
collector where predictions about capture efficiency (η; flux of captured
particles : flux of particles) are based on the collector flow environment
(i.e., collector Reynolds number, Rec; inertial : viscous forces). This
model does not account for the movement of collectors in nature. We
examined the effect of collector motion (transverse and longitudinal to
the flow) on η using a cylindrical model in the lab and the grass species,
Phleum pratense, in the field. Results demonstrated that collector motion
increased η (up to 400% and 20% in the lab and field, respectively) and
also affected the spatial distribution of particles on collectors,
especially at low Rec. The effect was greatest for collectors moving
transversely at large magnitude, which encountered more particles with
higher relative momentum. These results, which differ from the stationary
model, can be predicted by considering both Rec and the particle dynamics
given by the Stokes number (Stk; particle stopping distance : collector
radius) and helped to resolved an existing controversy about pollination
mechanisms. Collector motion should be considered in wind pollination and
other ecological processes involving particle capture.