Frank Nelson Blanchard (1888-1937) was an American botanist known for his contributions to the study of algae and freshwater plants. He was born on February 22, 1888, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and passed away on March 5, 1937.

Key Contributions and Achievements:

1. Research on Freshwater Algae: Blanchard specialized in the study of freshwater algae, particularly the green algae found in ponds, lakes, and other freshwater environments. His research focused on the taxonomy, morphology, and ecology of these organisms.
2. Publications: Blanchard authored numerous scientific papers on freshwater algae and published several notable books, including “Freshwater Algae of North America” (1933). His works have been valuable resources for the study of algae in the United States and beyond.
3. Academic Career: Blanchard served as a professor at the University of Illinois, where he made significant contributions to the field of botany and inspired many students to pursue careers in plant sciences.
4. Establishment of the Blanchard Herbarium: He established the Blanchard Herbarium at the University of Illinois, which houses a valuable collection of plant specimens, including algae, for research and educational purposes.
5. Honors and Recognition: Blanchard was a member of various scientific societies, and his contributions to botany were recognized through memberships in prestigious organizations like the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Frank Nelson Blanchard’s research and publications in the field of freshwater algae significantly advanced the understanding of these organisms in North America. His work has been influential in the study of algae, and the Blanchard Herbarium continues to be an important resource for researchers studying plant diversity and ecology.