A large genus of spherical or ovoid bacteria that are characteristically arranged in pairs or in chains resembling strings of beads. Many of the streptococci that constitute part of the normal flora of the mouth, throat, intestine, and skin are harmless commensal forms; other streptococci are highly pathogenic. The cells are gram-positive and can grow either anaerobically or aerobically, although they cannot utilize oxygen for metabolic reactions. Glucose and other carbohydrates serve as sources of carbon and energy for growth. All members of the genus lack the enzyme catalase. Streptococci can be isolated from humans and other animals.