The cells typically exhibit a discoid or barrel-shaped morphology, often with fine organic threads extending from the edges of the valve. A ring of spines surrounds the valve face, while numerous discoid plastids are present. The valve surface may appear flat or exhibit concentric undulations. These cells are distinguished by fasciculate radial striae, with internal ribs that vary in strength. They commonly form colonies, and some species may adopt a colonial growth pattern depending on environmental conditions.