This Gram positive coccus is found as pairs, tetrads, and less frequently as irregular, grape-like clusters. Cells are catalase positive and exhibit facultatively anaerobic metabolism. Able to use glucose oxidatively and fermentatively. Salt tolerant in media with NaCl concentrations up to 10%. Growth occurs at temperatures between 20-45 C, with optimum growth occurring between 30-40 C. Isolated most frequently from human skin (trunk, axilla, perineum, and inguinal regions) and primates, infrequently from domestic animals. Occasionally associated with infections surrounding indwelling and invasive medical devices.
