The organism is highly flattened and asymmetrical, with a firm pellicle and a consistent body shape characterized by prominent longitudinal or oblique markings. It possesses a flagellum and an eyespot (stigma), and its green chromatophores lack pyrenoids, appearing disc-shaped. It is capable of holophytic nutrition and inhabits freshwater environments. The cell appears rigid and ovate when viewed from the front, often featuring a short caudal process and being noticeably compressed and somewhat twisted. The outer layer (periplast) typically shows longitudinal striae or short spine-like projections. The chloroplasts are numerous and disc-shaped, while there are one or two large ring-shaped paramylon bodies present.