Ludwik Mlokosiewicz

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Ludwik Franciszek Mlokosiewicz (August 25, 1831 - 1909) was a Polish explorer, zoologist and botanist, who studied extensively in the Caucasus Mountains.

Mlokosiewicz was born in Warsaw, into a wealthy and aristocratic family. At the age of twenty-two he joined the Caucasian Division of the Russian Army. He used his botanical talents to plant a regimental park, orchard and water garden at Lagodekhi, on the south-eastern slopes of the Caucasus. In 1861 he resigned from the army and travelled south to explore the deserts of Persia. On his return he was arrested and charged with inciting revolt amongst the Poles in the Caucasus. Despite being innocent of the charges he was sentenced to six years enforced residence in the province of Voronetz and his botanical collections were confiscated.

In 1876 after restrictions had been lifted Mlokosiewicz explored the mountains of Dagestan, and two years later returned to Persia, travelling as far as Balochistan. On his return he was appointed Inspector of Forests for the Signakhi District, remaining at Lagadekhi for the rest of his life. He supplied foreign museums with botanical and zoological specimens.

Species which he discovered and were named after him include the Caucasian Black Grouse Tetrao mlokosiewiczi and the Golden Peony Paeonia mlokosewitschii.

[edit] Reference

• Barbara and Richard Mearns - Biographies for Birdwatchers ISBN 0-12-487422-3