This is a raphid pennate diatom, 15-17 µm in length, 3-5 µm in width. The taxon is photosynthetic, with 2-6 chloroplasts depending on valve length. Diagnostic to the genus, this taxon only has raphe slits on one valve; the rapheless valve instead has a central sternum across the apical axis.

These diatoms appear to be endemic to sea turtles and manatees and could have applications to research on diatom diversification as well as bioindication on sea turtle and manatee biogeography and health.

Publications: doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-19064-0, doi: 10.1515/bot-2016-0114