A group of fungi called dermatophytes cause ringworm. Dermatophytes live off a substance called keratin, a tissue found in many parts of a person's body, including the nails, skin, and hair. In ringworm of the body, the fungus infects the skin.

What organism can cause ringworm?

Ringworm is caused by a particular type of fungi, called dermatophytes. These fungi live on keratin.

What is the agent that causes ringworm in animals?

Ringworm is an infection of skin, hair, or claws caused by a type of fungus. In dogs, about 70% of ringworm cases are caused by the fungus Microsporum canis, 20% by Microsporum gypseum, and 10% by Trichophyton mentagrophytes.