# Alcide d'Orbigny

> French scientist (1802–1857)

**Wikidata**: [Q344661](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q344661)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcide_d'Orbigny)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/alcide-d-orbigny

## Summary
Alcide d'Orbigny was a French scientist (1802–1857) known for his contributions to botany, geology, and paleontology. He is recognized for his extensive work in natural history, including the classification of mollusks and the development of stratigraphic principles. His research significantly advanced the fields of zoology and geology during the 19th century.

## Biography
- Born: September 6, 1802, in Paris, France
- Nationality: French
- Education: Studied at the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle
- Known for: Pioneering work in stratigraphy, paleontology, and zoology
- Employer(s): Muséum national d'histoire naturelle
- Field(s): Botany, geology, paleontology, zoology

## Contributions
- **Stratigraphic Research**: Developed early biostratigraphic zonation methods, contributing to the geologic time scale.
- **Mollusk Classification**: Authored *Prodrome d'une classification naturelle des mollusques* (1846), a foundational work in malacology.
- **Paleontological Expeditions**: Led scientific expeditions, including the *Voyage autour du monde* (1842–1845), collecting specimens and documenting natural history.
- **Geological Mapping**: Contributed to the mapping of geological formations, particularly in South America.
- **Awards**: Received the Grande Médaille d'Or des Explorations for his contributions to natural history.

## FAQs
**Q: What were Alcide d'Orbigny's major scientific contributions?**
A: Alcide d'Orbigny made significant contributions to stratigraphy, paleontology, and zoology. He developed early biostratigraphic methods, authored a foundational work on mollusk classification, and led scientific expeditions that expanded natural history knowledge.

**Q: Where did Alcide d'Orbigny work?**
A: Alcide d'Orbigny was affiliated with the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle in Paris, where he conducted his research and expeditions.

**Q: What is Alcide d'Orbigny best known for?**
A: Alcide d'Orbigny is best known for his work in stratigraphy, paleontology, and zoology, particularly his classification of mollusks and his contributions to the geologic time scale.

**Q: What awards did Alcide d'Orbigny receive?**
A: Alcide d'Orbigny received the Grande Médaille d'Or des Explorations for his significant contributions to natural history and exploration.

## Why They Matter
Alcide d'Orbigny's work laid the groundwork for modern stratigraphy and paleontology. His biostratigraphic methods and mollusk classifications remain foundational in geology and zoology. His expeditions and publications expanded the understanding of natural history, influencing subsequent generations of scientists. His contributions to the geologic time scale and the classification of mollusks are still referenced today, making him a pivotal figure in the development of these fields.

## Notable For
- Pioneer in stratigraphy and paleontology
- Author of *Prodrome d'une classification naturelle des mollusques* (1846)
- Leader of the *Voyage autour du monde* (1842–1845) expedition
- Recipient of the Grande Médaille d'Or des Explorations
- Affiliated with the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Alcide d'Orbigny was born on September 6, 1802, in Paris, France. He received his education at the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle, where he developed a keen interest in natural history. His early work focused on botany and geology, setting the foundation for his future contributions to paleontology and zoology.

### Scientific Expeditions
Alcide d'Orbigny led several scientific expeditions, including the *Voyage autour du monde* (1842–1845). This expedition collected extensive natural history specimens, particularly mollusks, which he later classified and documented. His work on these expeditions significantly expanded the knowledge of natural history in various regions.

### Stratigraphic Research
Alcide d'Orbigny made significant contributions to stratigraphy, developing early biostratigraphic zonation methods. His work on the geologic time scale and the classification of rock layers provided critical insights into Earth's history. His methods remain foundational in modern geology.

### Mollusk Classification
Alcide d'Orbigny authored *Prodrome d'une classification naturelle des mollusques* (1846), a comprehensive work on mollusk classification. This publication became a foundational text in malacology, influencing subsequent research in the field. His classification system is still referenced today.

### Awards and Recognition
Alcide d'Orbigny received the Grande Médaille d'Or des Explorations for his contributions to natural history and exploration. This award recognized his significant impact on the field of natural sciences.

### Legacy and Influence
Alcide d'Orbigny's work had a lasting influence on the fields of geology, paleontology, and zoology. His contributions to stratigraphy, mollusk classification, and natural history expeditions remain foundational. His publications and methods continue to be referenced in modern scientific research.

### Affiliations and Employers
Alcide d'Orbigny was affiliated with the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle, where he conducted his research and expeditions. His work at this institution significantly advanced the understanding of natural history and geology.

### Publications and Works
Alcide d'Orbigny authored numerous publications, including *Prodrome d'une classification naturelle des mollusques* (1846). His works on stratigraphy and natural history expeditions are still referenced in scientific literature.

### Notable Collaborations
Alcide d'Orbigny collaborated with other scientists and institutions, including the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle. These collaborations enhanced his research and contributed to the broader field of natural sciences.

### Personal Life and Death
Alcide d'Orbigny passed away on June 30, 1857. His legacy continues to influence the fields of geology, paleontology, and zoology, ensuring his place as a pivotal figure in scientific history.

## References

1. www.accademiadellescienze.it
2. BnF authorities
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4. International Plant Names Index
5. [Source](https://patrimoine.sorbonne-universite.fr/fonds/item/2996-liste-des-membres-de-la-societe-geologique-de-france-en-mars-1844?offset=21)
6. [Bionomia](https://bionomia.net/dataset/85714c48-f762-11e1-a439-00145eb45e9a)
7. [Bionomia](https://bionomia.net/dataset/b5cdf794-8fa4-4a85-8b26-755d087bf531)
8. Bionomia
9. International Standard Name Identifier
10. Virtual International Authority File
11. CiNii Research
12. SNAC
13. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
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15. Croatian Encyclopedia
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18. Gran Enciclopèdia Catalana
19. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
20. Union List of Artist Names
21. Swedish Open Cultural Heritage
22. LIBRIS. 2018
23. [Source](http://herbarium.bgbm.org/object/B200095258)
24. [Source](https://gzu.jacq.org/GZU000249981)
25. [Source](https://www.botanicalcollections.be/specimen/BR0000005170968)
26. [Source](https://w.jacq.org/W18890115247)
27. [Bionomia](https://bionomia.net/dataset/7e380070-f762-11e1-a439-00145eb45e9a)
28. [Bionomia](https://bionomia.net/dataset/821cc27a-e3bb-4bc5-ac34-89ada245069d)