Staurodesmus curvatus is a unicellular organism that typically forms colonies. Each cell is boat-shaped or crescent-shaped and contains a single nucleus. The cells are often arranged in a row, giving the colony a linear or ribbon-like appearance. Each cell has two long, curved spines or processes extending from opposite ends, giving it a star-like or cruciform shape. These spines are used for buoyancy and attachment. The chloroplasts within the cell are cup-shaped and contain one or more pyrenoids, which are important for carbon fixation during photosynthesis. Staurodesmus curvatus reproduces asexually through cell division. It is commonly found in freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams, where it plays a role in the aquatic ecosystem as a primary producer.