The Family Chytridiaceae is a group of fungi that includes several species of chytrids. Chytrids are aquatic or soil-dwelling fungi that have flagellated spores and gametes. Some synonyms for the family Chytridiaceae include the order Chytridiales and the class Chytridiomycetes. The Chytridiomycetes are a group of fungi that also includes the Blastocladiales, Monoblepharidales, and Spizellomycetales. Chytrid fungi are known for their ability to attack and cause disease in plants, animals, and other fungi. Some chytrids are also known to have a symbiotic relationship with algae or cyanobacteria. The study of chytrids is important for understanding the role of fungi in ecological systems.