Cryptococcus neoformans is the MOST likely identification of the encapsulated yeast in this question. C. neoformans is urease +, and grows brown colonies on birdseed agar. In addition, India ink stain can also be used for Cryptococus spp. identification.

What is the MOST likely identification of an encapsulated yeast in a blood culture bottle from a patient with septicemia with the following additional culture information?:

Failure to produce germ tubes

Urease positive

Produced brown pigment on bird seed agar