Genus of imperfect fungi from the group of dermatophytes. Among the most important representatives of this group are T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, T. soudanense, T. terrestre, T. verrucosum, T. violaceum, T. schönleinii. In the parasitic phase only formation of hyphae and arthrospores, in the saprophytic phase also formation of an air mycelium and macro- and microconidia (thin-walled, smooth, four to six septums). Some trichophytes are dye-forming organisms. S.a. tinea.