Trichocerca is characterized by a single cylindrical lorica, often featuring teeth and longitudinal grooves or ridges. The body is typically cylindrical, somewhat curved, and asymmetrical. Its spine-like toes are of unequal length and have several small spinules at their base. These organisms exhibit either creeping or free-swimming movement and possess a virgate mastax with asymmetrical trophi. Trichocerca species are commonly found in lake plankton, with lorica lengths ranging from 100 to 500 µm. Formerly classified under Diurella, Trichocerca includes species with both equal and unequal toes. While the genus is currently considered heterogeneous, any potential subdivision should not be solely based on toe length.