Dermatophytes belong to three main genera: Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. These fungi thrive in moist environments and are capable of digesting keratin, a protein found in the outer layer of the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatophytoses, also known as tinea infections, are categorized based on the affected body site, such as tinea pedis (athlete's foot) and tinea corporis (ringworm).