author
O. A. (Oskar Augustus) Johannsen
1870–1961
A pioneering American entomologist, he devoted his career to the study of flies and other aquatic insects, helping shape the field through both research and teaching. His work at Cornell and in major survey publications made him a lasting figure in early twentieth-century insect science.
1 Audiobook
Handbook of Medical Entomology
by William A. (William Albert) Riley, O. A. (Oskar Augustus) Johannsen
About the author
Born in Davenport, Iowa, on May 14, 1870, Oskar Augustus Johannsen became an American entomologist known especially for his work on Diptera, the order of insects that includes flies. He studied at the University of Illinois and later at Cornell University, where much of his academic life would unfold.
Johannsen first taught civil engineering at Cornell before moving fully into entomology. He also taught at the University of Maine, then returned to Cornell, where he spent many years as a professor. His research focused heavily on aquatic insects and fly classification, and he contributed to important scientific works including surveys and guides used by students and specialists.
He died in Ithaca, New York, on November 7, 1961. Remembered as both a careful scientist and a dedicated teacher, he helped build a stronger foundation for the study of insects in North America.