These microorganisms have spherical or oval-shaped bodies and usually contain one or two yellowish-brown chloroplasts. They exhibit flagellate behavior that can transition to amoeboid or palmelloid forms. A single external flagellum emerges apically, and a second very short flagellum is situated in a pocket, visible under electron microscopy. Some species may have an eyespot. Their cysts are typically smooth but may also be ornamented. Many of these species possess peripheral muciferous bodies, and certain species have discobolocysts, which are a type of extrusome. These microorganisms are found in both freshwater and marine environments.