Charles Horton Peck

Charles Horton Peck (March 30, 1833 – July 11, 1917) was an American mycologist known for his extensive study and classification of fungi, particularly within the state of New York. Over his career, Peck described more than 2,700 species of fungi, many of which were new to science. His contributions to mycology have made him one of the most prolific and respected mycologists in the United States.

Biography

Charles Horton Peck was born in Sand Lake, Rensselaer County, New York. He developed an interest in natural history early in life, but his initial academic pursuits were in the field of theology. After graduating from the Albany Academy, he attended Union College in Schenectady, New York, where he eventually shifted his focus to the study of botany and natural sciences.

Following his graduation, Peck became a teacher, but his passion for botany, especially mycology, continued to grow. In 1867, he was appointed as the State Botanist of New York, a position he held for 50 years until his retirement in 1915. This role provided him the opportunity to explore and document the fungal biodiversity of New York State extensively.

Contributions to Mycology

Throughout his career, Peck was dedicated to the field of mycology. His annual reports to the New York State Museum included descriptions of new species and genera of fungi he discovered across the state. These reports, which were published almost every year from 1868 until his death in 1917, are a significant body of work in the field of mycology.

Peck's methodical approach to the classification and description of fungi was instrumental in the development of mycology as a science. He was known for his meticulous observations and his ability to distinguish between closely related species. His work laid the foundation for future mycological studies in the United States and contributed significantly to the understanding of fungal biodiversity.

Legacy

Charles Horton Peck's legacy in the field of mycology is enduring. The New York State Museum holds an extensive collection of his specimens, which continues to be a valuable resource for mycologists. His dedication to the study of fungi and his contributions to botanical science have been recognized by the naming of several fungal species in his honor.

Peck's work is also remembered through the Charles Horton Peck Award, given by the Mycological Society of America for outstanding contributions to the field of mycology. This award highlights the lasting impact of Peck's work on the study and understanding of fungi.

Selected Works

Peck published numerous articles and reports on fungi throughout his career. Some of his most notable works include his annual reports to the New York State Museum, where he described new species and provided insights into the fungal flora of New York State.

Death

Charles Horton Peck passed away on July 11, 1917, in Menands, New York. His death marked the end of an era in American mycology, but his contributions continue to influence the field.