This Gram positive coccus is found in pairs, tetrads, and clusters. Cells are catalase positive (weak), oxidase negative, and exhibit facultatively anaerobic metabolism. Able to use glucose fermentatively. Optimum growth temperature is 30-37 C. Colonies may be rubbery or sticky due to the mucilagenous capsular material produced. It is isolated primarily from mouth and respiratory tract of humans, and is capable of growth and producing diseases like endocarditis and meningitis in mammals.