Todd Elliott

Todd Elliott's research advances the understanding of how vertebrates move mycorrhizal fungi across landscapes and the ways in which these associations impact relationships between fungi and plant root systems. His work on vertebrate mycophagy (consumption of fungi by animals) has documented links between mammals, birds, reptiles and fungi as widespread, and mutually beneficial. Elliott has conducted remote fieldwork in more than a dozen countries on six continents, and he strives to share compelling and biologically accurate stories of biodiversity and ecological conservation to achieve positive outcomes for the flora, fauna, funga and people that call these places home. 

Elliott’s broad knowledge of plants, fungi and animals enables him to employ an integrated research approach including fungal taxonomy, vertebrate live trapping, camera trapping, fecal analysis and behavioral observations to link an array of vertebrate species to previously unknown or poorly understood ecosystem services. Elliott's research has brought to light the ecologically important service mycophagous animals provide as they forage for subterranean truffles and subsequently turn over soil. This soil turnover is integral to nutrient cycling, soil hydration and the reduction of unnaturally hot wildfires. His research is also the first to highlight the role of various trophic levels—from small primary consumer to apex predator—in the long-distance dispersal of mycorrhizal fungi. Elliott has named more than 100 species of fungi and written Mushrooms of the Southeast, a popular field guide to ecologically important fungi in the region. 

Passionate about science communication and application, Elliott shares his knowledge and love of the natural world via lectures, workshops and ecology walks. He also works as an ecological consultant for non-profit, private sector and governmental organizations within the US and abroad.

To learn more, visit Elliott’s website and follow his work on Instagram: @toddfelliott and @fungi.hunter.

Photo: Kelsey Myers Elliott