Nathaniel Lyon Gardner (1864–1937): Expert on Pacific Algae and Funghi

Nathaniel Lyon Gardner

Nathaniel Lyon Gardner was a pioneering American botanist whose meticulous studies of marine and freshwater algae helped shape the field of phycology in the early 20th century. As a professor and curator at the University of California, Berkeley, Gardner's work laid foundational knowledge of Pacific Coast seaweeds and contributed significantly to the scientific understanding of algae taxonomy and morphology.

Born on February 26, 1864, in Keokuk, Iowa, Gardner began his career as a schoolteacher in Iowa and later in Washington state. His interest in botany was sparked during this time, leading him to collect plant specimens and seek identification assistance from experts. This pursuit connected him with William Albert Setchell, the head of the Botany Department at UC Berkeley, who would become a lifelong collaborator. Gardner earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Washington in 1900, followed by a Master of Science in 1903 and a Ph.D. in 1906 from UC Berkeley. His doctoral thesis, "Cytological Studies in Cyanophyceae," focused on the cellular biology of blue-green algae.

After completing his doctorate, Gardner served as the head of the biology department at Los Angeles Polytechnic High School. He returned to UC Berkeley as an acting assistant professor in 1909–10 and was appointed full-time assistant professor in 1913. He was promoted to associate professor in 1923 and retired in 1934. During his tenure, Gardner also served as the curator of the University Herbarium.

Gardner became known for his expertise in Pacific Coast seaweeds, as well as for his work with freshwater algae and fungi. He published extensively on the morphology and taxonomy of blue-green algae (on which he was recognized as a world authority) as well as red and brown algae. In addition to plant collecting and other kinds of field work, he developed special methods for cultivating algae in the lab. Although he often coauthored papers with Setchell, he also published some 30 solo-authored papers. His works include "Algae of Northwestern America" and "The Marine Algae of the Pacific Coast of North America."

In 1915, Gardner married Edith Jordan, an educator he met while both were teaching at Los Angeles Polytechnic High School. They resided in Berkeley, California, where Gardner continued his academic and research endeavors. He passed away on August 15, 1937, at his home in Berkeley.

Gardner's legacy endures through his extensive contributions to phycology and mycology. His meticulous research and publications remain valuable resources for researchers in these fields. Specimens he collected are preserved in herbaria, and his collaborative works with Setchell continue to be referenced in contemporary botanical studies.

Sources: Smithsonian, Wikipedia, Find a Grave, Biodiversity Heritage Library, UC/JEPS Herbaria