Fungology is the study of fungi and their properties. Some synonyms for the term include mycology and mycetology. Mycology is the most commonly used synonym and covers the scientific study of fungi, including their genetic makeup, physiology, ecology, and identification. Mycetology emphasizes taxonomy and classification of fungi, including their evolution and biodiversity. Other synonyms include phycology, which is the study of algae, and lichenology, which focuses on the symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae. Additionally, the term mycophile is used to describe someone who loves fungi and their study, while mycophagy refers to the consumption of fungi as food.