4,733 records of plant names list Takenoshin Nakai as an author or co-author within the International Plant Names Index. This volume of taxonomic work establishes his professional reach within biology, documenting plant species across Japan and Korea. His career navigated the institutional shifts of the early twentieth century, spanning academic roles at the University of Tokyo and research in Indonesia.
Academic Formation and Career
Born in Gifu in 1882, Nakai pursued his education at the University of Tokyo, also referred to as Tokyo University. His professional life remained tied to this institution, where he served as a professor. During this period, the scientific study of plants became increasingly specialized and structured as a national research priority. Nakai focused his career on botany, contributing to the organization of plant data that supported agricultural and medical applications.
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Nakai published significant papers on the flora of Japan and Korea in 1919 and 1930. His research included studies on the genus Cephalotaxus. His output in plant classification was extensive, leading to his status as a recorded author or co-author on thousands of naming entries. These records allowed subsequent researchers to utilize his findings as a foundation for further botanical study without the need to verify his initial data.
International Botanical Research
Between 1943 and 1945, Nakai relocated to the Dutch East Indies, known today as Indonesia. During this timeframe, he held the position of director at 's Lands Plantentuin in Batavia, which is currently identified as the Bogor Botanical Gardens in Bogor. His work there occurred during the occupation of the territory by the Empire of Japan.
Fast facts
- Born: 1882, Gifu
- Died: 1952, Tokyo
- Education: University of Tokyo
- Primary Occupation: Botanist
- Major Research Locations: Japan, Korea, Indonesia
- International Plant Names Index records: 4,733
Questions readers ask
What was Nakai's primary contribution to botany?
He is recognized for documenting and naming thousands of plant species, contributing 4,733 records to the International Plant Names Index.
Did Nakai hold positions outside of Japan?
Yes, he served as the director of 's Lands Plantentuin in Batavia between 1943 and 1945.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Tokyo
- Educated at Tokyo University and University of Tokyo
- Fields of research: botany