How Do You Spell MICROCOCCUS TETRAGENUS?

1. Micrococcus tetragenus is a species of gram-positive, spherical-shaped bacteria belonging to the Micrococcaceae family. It is characterized by its occurrence in pairs or tetrads, which reflects its tetragenic arrangement. The name "Micrococcus" derives from the Greek words "mikros" meaning small, and "kokkos" meaning berry or coccus, indicating its small size and round shape.

   Micrococcus tetragenus is a non-motile bacteria that does not produce spores. It typically has a diameter ranging between 0.5 to 2.0 micrometers. This bacterium is facultatively anaerobic, meaning it can survive in environments with or without oxygen. It is also catalase-positive, producing an enzyme known as catalase, which enables the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.

   Micrococcus tetragenus is commonly found in various habitats, including soil, dust, water, and air. It has also been isolated from human skin, respiratory tracts, and mucous membranes. Although it is part of the normal flora in these areas and is generally non-pathogenic, under certain circumstances, it can cause infections. It has been associated with opportunistic infections such as septicemia, endocarditis, urinary tract infections, and meningitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

   In the laboratory, Micrococcus tetragenus can be identified through various biochemical tests, including the catalase test, oxidase test, and nitrate reduction test. It is often sensitive to antibiotics such as penicillin and erythromycin, making them effective treatment options when necessary.

2. An encapsulated coccus usually arranged in tetrads, or groups of four; it is often found associated with the tubercle bacillus, and is believed to be sometimes the cause of a pseudomembranous angina.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MICROCOCCUS TETRAGENUS

The word Micrococcus tetragenus has its etymology rooted in Greek and Latin.

1. Micrococcus: The term Micrococcus comes from the Greek words mikros meaning small or little, and kokkos meaning berry or grain. It was coined to describe the bacteria's small, spherical shape, resembling berries or grains when viewed under a microscope.

2. Tetragenus: The term tetragenus is derived from the Greek word tetragonos meaning four-cornered or four-angled. This refers to the characteristic tetrads, or groups of four arranged in a square or rectangle, that these bacteria commonly form when they reproduce.

Combined, Micrococcus tetragenus translates to small, spherical, bacteria forming tetrads.