This article provides an overview of the taxonomic and nomenclature changes in the *Streptococcus* genus over the past 15 years, driven by advancements in molecular techniques such as DNA-DNA reassociation and 16S rDNA gene sequencing. The genus has expanded from seven to 17 different genera of gram-positive coccobacilli (GPC). The discussion focuses on the *Streptococcus* genus and closely related GPC that are catalase-negative and form chains in the Gram stain. The article details the historical classification and identification methods, highlighting the limitations of traditional approaches, and introduces new identification schemes based on phenotypic characteristics and molecular data. It covers various beta-hemolytic and non-beta-hemolytic streptococcal species, including *S. pyogenes*, *S. pneumoniae*, and several species within the *S. bovis-S. equinus* group. The article also addresses the challenges in differentiating between species and subspecies, and the importance of accurate identification for clinical management and treatment.This article provides an overview of the taxonomic and nomenclature changes in the *Streptococcus* genus over the past 15 years, driven by advancements in molecular techniques such as DNA-DNA reassociation and 16S rDNA gene sequencing. The genus has expanded from seven to 17 different genera of gram-positive coccobacilli (GPC). The discussion focuses on the *Streptococcus* genus and closely related GPC that are catalase-negative and form chains in the Gram stain. The article details the historical classification and identification methods, highlighting the limitations of traditional approaches, and introduces new identification schemes based on phenotypic characteristics and molecular data. It covers various beta-hemolytic and non-beta-hemolytic streptococcal species, including *S. pyogenes*, *S. pneumoniae*, and several species within the *S. bovis-S. equinus* group. The article also addresses the challenges in differentiating between species and subspecies, and the importance of accurate identification for clinical management and treatment.