False-colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the fungus Trichophyton violaceum, causative agent of the scalp skin condition tinea capitus or ring- worm of the scalp. Here, fungal threads of the mycelium are seen, each thread a hypha, with a spore producing fruiting body at lower centre. In North Africa this fungus is the commonest cause of tinea capitus; scalp ringworm can also be caused by other fungi. Trichophyton violaceum inhabits the skin of the scalp giving rise to round, scaly lesions and producing itchy patches of hair loss, mainly in children. It is spread by contact with fungal spores. Treatment is with antifungal drugs. Magnification: x685 at 6x7cm size.