Elmer Ottis Wooton: The Legacy of a Distinguished American Botanist
In the history of American botanical science, few figures have left as lasting a mark on the flora of the Southwest as Elmer Ottis Wooton. A dedicated scientist whose career spanned decades of academic and governmental service, Wooton's contributions continue to be recognized through taxonomic classifications and preserved botanical specimens.
Born on September 19, 1865, and passing in 1945, Wooton was a multifaceted scholar who bridged the gap between classroom instruction and field-based scientific research.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Academic and Professional Career
Wooton's professional journey was defined by his commitment to the study of chemistry and botany. His career can be divided into three primary phases of service:
- Academic Instruction: From 1890 to 1911, he served as a professor of chemistry and botany at New Mexico State College.
- Curatorial Work: In 1910, he held the position of assistant curator at the National Herbarium.
- Governmental Service: From 1911 to 1935, he was employed by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Scientific Contributions and Taxonomy
Beyond his teaching and administrative roles, Wooton was an active collector and editor. One of his notable achievements was the editing and distribution of an exsiccata—a set of dried, preserved plant specimens used for scientific study—titled New Mexico plants, which featured specimens he collected personally.
His impact on biological nomenclature is evident in the species named in his honor. In botany, when a species is named after a person, it serves as a permanent tribute to their work. Two such species include:
- Astragalus wootonii
- Cheilanthes wootonii
Furthermore, in the formal citation of botanical names, the standard author abbreviation Wooton is utilized to identify him as the author of a specific plant name.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Full Name: Elmer Ottis Wooton
- Lifespan: September 19, 1865 – 1945
- Primary Fields: Botany and Chemistry
- Major Employer: US Department of Agriculture (1911–1935)
- Notable Publication: New Mexico plants (exsiccata)
- Botanical Honor: Species Astragalus wootonii and Cheilanthes wootonii
Summary of Professional Timeline
| Period | Role/Organization | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| 1890–1911 | New Mexico State College | Professor of Chemistry and Botany |
| 1910 | National Herbarium | Assistant Curator |
| 1911–1935 | US Department of Agriculture | Botanical Research/Employment |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an exsiccata?
An exsiccata is a collection of dried plant specimens that have been prepared and distributed for scientific reference and study.
Which plant species are named after Elmer Ottis Wooton?
The species Astragalus wootonii and Cheilanthes wootonii were both named in his honor.
What does the abbreviation "Wooton" signify in botany?
In botanical nomenclature, the abbreviation "Wooton" is the standard author abbreviation used to indicate that Elmer Ottis Wooton is the author of a specific botanical name.
Where did Wooton teach?
He served as a professor of chemistry and botany at New Mexico State College for over two decades, from 1890 to 1911.
How long did he work for the US Department of Agriculture?
He was employed by the US Department of Agriculture for 24 years, from 1911 until 1935.