Richard Sternfeld

German herpetologist

Richard Sternfeld was a notable German herpetologist who made significant contributions to the field of biology. His work primarily focused on the description of various species of amphibians and reptiles, with a particular emphasis on those found in Germany's African and Pacific colonies. Through his research, Sternfeld was able to identify and describe over forty distinct species, greatly expanding the understanding of these regions' herpetological diversity.

Despite his notable achievements in the scientific community, Sternfeld's life was tragically cut short. As a Jewish individual, he fell victim to the persecution that occurred during World War II. Sternfeld ultimately lost his life at Auschwitz, a concentration camp notorious for its brutal treatment of prisoners. His death serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of war and prejudice, and his legacy as a pioneering herpetologist continues to be recognized and respected in the scientific community.