The Human Normal (Commensal) Flora

The Gram film from a skin swab

In the Gram film above two different types of cell can be seen; one is rod shaped and the other is round. Both are Gram-positive. Thus, this film contains both Gram-positive bacilli and cocci. The Gram-positive cocci are said to resemble bunches of grapes: Some bacteriologists say that the Gram-positive bacilli in this film resemble 'Chinese letters':

Link to normal flora cases

Page edited April 2006

Microbiology Teaching Page

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