196 VETERINARY BACTERIOLOGY 



this organism from certain other pyogenic forms, such as the gono- 

 coccus. Frequently a stained mount will reveal but a few bacteria, 

 and cultures are then necessary. These must be made in any 

 event where it is desired to make a positive diagnosis. 



Transmission and Prophylaxis. The fact that the organism is 

 constantly present on the skin and hair makes it particularly 

 difficult to prevent its entrance into wounds. The common 

 practices of aseptic surgery are the best preventives of infection. 



Micrococcus albus 



Synonyms. Micrococcus pyogenes albus; Staphylococcus pyog- 

 enes albus. 



This organism differs from Micrococcus aureus by being devoid 

 of color, and by being less pathogenic. In a few cases of suppura- 

 tion it has been found alone, and in many cases associated with the 

 preceding. In all other respects what has been said with respect 

 to Micrococcus aureus will apply to this form. It is believed by 

 some investigators that these two organisms are simply varieties 

 of one single form which they term Micrococcus (Staphylococcus) 

 pyogenes. 



Micrococcus citreus 



Synonyms. Micrococcus pyogenes citreus; Staphylococcus pyog- 

 enes citreus; Staphylococcus citreus. 



This organism was originally described by Rosenbach as pres- 

 ent on the skin. It is doubtfully pathogenic and relatively un- 

 common. It differs principally from Micrococcus aureus in the 

 production of a lemon-yellow pigment on agar and potatoes and 

 its lack of power to liquefy gelatin. In other respects it resembles 

 the two preceding forms, and is possibly but 'a variety of them. 



Micrococci of Uncertain Significance 



Micrococcus (pyogenes) bovis (Synonym, Staphylococcus 

 pyogenes bovis). This organism is somewhat smaller than 

 Micrococcus aureus, and does not liquefy gelatin. It has been 

 claimed to be more commonly the cause of suppuration in cattle 

 than the typical Micrococcus aureus. It is doubtful whether 

 there is a valid specific difference between the two. 



Micrococcus mastitidis. A micrococcus was isolated by Kitt 



