Pinhas (Pinye) Amitai (1928—2023)

Pinhas (Pinye) Amitai, a self-educated zoologist, was one of the most notable and popular naturalists in Israel, famous for his books, lectures, jokes, pranks and the characteristic enormous moustache. Amitai was born in Jerusalem, spent most of his life in Jerusalem and died in Jerusalem, full of years and good works. In general, he was primarily an entomologist and arachnologist, and his main scientific interest was in poisonous arthropods. However, Pinye’s major contribution was the popularization of nature science and his love of nature among the general public. Overall, he authored or co-authored more than 270 publications, including 17 scientific articles in English or French, one scientific book in English, 17 popular scientific books in Hebrew, and numerous articles in Hebrew journals and newspapers.