A microbiologist identifies a gram-positive coccus that grows in clusters and is catalase-positive and coagulase-positive. Which organism is most consistent with these findings?

✓ Correct Answer: Option D

Staphylococcus aureus is characterized by being gram-positive cocci in clusters, catalase-positive, and coagulase-positive, distinguishing it from other Staphylococci (e.g., S. epidermidis is coagulase-negative) and Streptococci.