10 Facts About Alfred Grandidier

Alfred Grandidier was a French naturalist and explorer.

Ernest Alfred Grandidier went to China and collected a vast number of specimens which are now in the Louvre and the Guimet museum.

Alfred Grandidier had intended to explore the high plateau of Tibet, but was prevented by a severe attack of fever.

Alfred Grandidier travelled to Zanzibar to recuperate, remaining some time and making important collections and publishing an account of his findings.

Alfred Grandidier then visited the island of Reunion and in 1865 made his first visit to Madagascar.

Alfred Grandidier became devoted to the study of the island, revisiting in 1866 and 1868.

Alfred Grandidier made observations which resulted in the production of a map of the island used in future expeditions.

Alfred Grandidier described about 50 new species of reptiles and amphibians.

Alfred Grandidier's work drew the attention of the French government to Madagascar, which it would annex at the end of 1890.

Alfred Grandidier was elected to the French Academy of Sciences in 1885 and was the president of the French Geographical Society from 1901 to 1905.