This is a scanning electron micrograph depicting Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. S. aureus, often referred to simply as "staph", are bacteria commonly carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of skin infections in the United States.

Gram-Positive Bacteria

Picture & text from CDC/PHIL. For more information see Staph Infection Pictures from CDC