Dermatomycetes

/ˌdɜːmætoʊmaɪˈsiːtz/ noun

Definition

Fungi that infect and live in skin tissue, causing fungal skin infections like ringworm and athlete's foot.

Etymology

From Greek 'derma' (skin) and 'mycetes' (fungi). This taxonomic term emerged as mycologists classified fungi specifically adapted to parasitizing skin tissue.

Kelly Says

Dermatomycetes are astonishingly successful parasites—they're so good at infecting skin because they evolved to break down keratin, the exact protein that makes up your outer skin layer, making your skin the perfect home for them.

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