Caption

False-colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the fungus Trichophyton faviforme, member of the genus that causes the skin condition tinea or ringworm. Here, asci (spore-containing bodies) are seen close-up, produced at the end of threads (hyphae) of the fungal mycelium. Many species of Trichophyton cause ringworm in animals and humans. Ringworm (tinea) is a fungal skin infection which occurs on the scalp, body, male genitals (jock itch), feet (athlete's foot) and occasionally the nails. It produces typically round, scaly lesions or patches of hair loss, mainly in children. Use of antifungal drugs is effective as a treatment. Magnification: x685 at 6x7cm size.