What does GNS mean in UNCLASSIFIED

George Nathaniel Steere (1869-1940) was an American botanist and bryologist known for his extensive research on the bryophytes of the Philippines, Malaysia, and the Pacific Islands. He was a Professor of Botany at the University of Michigan and the first Director of the University of Michigan Herbarium.

Steere made significant contributions to the study of bryophytes, particularly those found in the Philippines and the Pacific Islands. He described over 2,000 new species of bryophytes, including many new genera and families. He also published numerous scientific papers and books on the taxonomy, ecology, and distribution of bryophytes. His work greatly expanded our understanding of the diversity and distribution of bryophytes in these regions.

Bryophytes are a group of non-vascular plants that include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. They are typically small, non-woody plants that lack true roots, stems, and leaves. Bryophytes play an important role in ecosystems, providing food and shelter for other organisms and contributing to soil formation and water retention.

Steere's research on bryophytes was groundbreaking and had a profound impact on the field. His extensive collections and detailed descriptions of new species provided a foundation for further research on the diversity and distribution of bryophytes. His work also contributed to our understanding of the ecological roles of bryophytes and their importance in ecosystems.

You can find more information about George Nathaniel Steere and his work in the following resources:

• University of Michigan Herbarium
• International Bryophyte Association
• Smithsonian Institution Archives