Dr. Mike Amaranthus is a world-renowned mycologist, retired USDA research soil scientist, and the founder of Big Foot Mycorrhizae. He is the recipient of the USDA Highest Award for Scientific Achievement and has several mushrooms and truffles named in his honor.
In this video interview, Dr. Mike discusses the fundamental importance of fungi to plant life, soil health, and the ecosystem as a whole -- and why he dedicated his career to understanding and sharing the science of mycorrhizal relationships.
Watch the full interview to hear Dr. Mike explain why he believes fungi are one of the most underappreciated forces in nature, and how Big Foot Mycorrhizae was built to bring that science to everyday growers.
About Dr. Mike
Dr. Michael Amaranthus spent decades as a research scientist for the USDA Forest Service, where he became one of the world's foremost experts on mycorrhizal fungi and soil ecology. He was also an associate adjunct professor at Oregon State University.
He founded Mycorrhizal Applications, Inc. and later Myco Analytics LLC in Grants Pass, Oregon. His scientific work has contributed to our understanding of how mycorrhizal fungi support plant growth, drought resistance, carbon sequestration, and long-term soil health.