This Gram positive coccus is found as singles, pairs, and infrequently 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 15-45 C, with optimum growth occurring between 30-40 C. Isolated most frequently from the skin and nasal cavities of monkeys and apes, infrequently from humans and other mammals. There is evidence of its involvement in infections of cattle and canines, as well as nosocomial infections in immunocompromised patients particularly associated with indwelling medical devices and invasive procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n