Studies in V egetational History in honour of Knud Jessen

Abstract

Knud Jessen's name is inherently associated with the history of the flora of northern Europe; for more than a lifetime he has been at the forefront in this field of research. Where he began, in Denmark and in Ireland, others followed, inspired by his achievement, sustained by his vital initiative, and his kind assistance. In his footsteps research flourished, characterized by fruitful allround co-operation. This felicitous esprit de corps can be traced to Knud Jessens charming and downwright personality.

Strict objectivity distinguishes Knud Jessen's entire scientific work, yet his daily work of research is borne by a spontaneous and infectious joy. Accordingly, we hope that the specific tribute expressed in this book, written by colleages, pupils, friends, will please him.

Knud Jessen's sphere of activity is not limited to Denmark. He has investigated German bogs, worked with English and Norwegian finds, and from his hand derives the fundamental work on the vegetational history of Ireland. It was, therefore, natural to afford some of his friends from the countries mentioned an opportunity to partake in the tribute.

The book has been published by the Geological Survey of Denmark as a greeting from his old institute to which he has given many fruitful years of work as the leader of the bog laboratory.