The two pathogenic Neisseria species, N. meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae, differ from the nonpathogenic Neisseria species in that

Neisseria gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis are true human pathogens, surviving best in the human host. They are more fastidious in their nutritional requirement, requiring an enriched selective medium and temperature for growth. All Neisseria are oxidase positive. Normal flora (nonpathogenic) Neisseria will grow at room temperature on simple medium. Because of beta-lactamase production, sensitivities should be done to ensure proper antimicrobial selection for treatment. Ref Robbins 9/e pg 400