M. Louis Gentil (July 15, 1868 - June 12, 1925) was a French geologist, explorer, author, and professor. He explored North Africa.[1][2] He collected rocks and fossils. He discovered Encephalartos laurentianus in 1902. Louis Gentil Field is named for him. Youssoufia was known in the past as Louis Gentil. He was a member of the Academy of Sciences.[3]
He was born in Algiers. He explored the Atlas Mountains and was tasked with exploring the Muluya (Mulucha) valley.[4] He led the Cherifian Institute. He worked with Jacques Bourcart who succeeded him as its director.