Stephen Alfred Forbes

Stephen Alfred Forbes 001

Stephen Alfred Forbes (May 29, 1844 – March 13, 1930) was an American entomologist and ecologist, often considered the founder of the field of ecology in the United States. He made significant contributions to the study of insects and their interactions with the environment, and his work laid the groundwork for modern ecological studies.

Early Life and Education

Stephen Alfred Forbes was born in Silver Creek, Illinois. He developed an early interest in natural history and pursued his education at the Illinois State Normal University and later at the Harvard University.

Career

Forbes began his professional career as a teacher and later became the first State Entomologist of Illinois in 1882. He was also appointed as the director of the Illinois State Laboratory of Natural History and the Illinois Natural History Survey. His work primarily focused on the study of insects and their role in agriculture and ecosystems.

Contributions to Ecology

Forbes is best known for his pioneering work in ecology. His 1887 paper, "The Lake as a Microcosm," is considered a foundational text in the field. In this work, he described the complex interactions within a lake ecosystem, emphasizing the interdependence of organisms and their environment. This holistic approach was revolutionary at the time and influenced future ecological research.

Legacy

Stephen Alfred Forbes' contributions to entomology and ecology have had a lasting impact on the scientific community. He is remembered as a pioneer who helped establish the principles of ecological study and the importance of understanding the relationships between organisms and their environments.

Selected Works

• "The Lake as a Microcosm" (1887)
• Various reports and publications on insects and agriculture

See Also

• Ecology
• Entomology
• Illinois Natural History Survey
• Insect