The name of the genus Micrasterias means “small star,” a fitting moniker due to the typical shape of its members. The organisms, which are considered placoderm desmids since they feature cell walls composed of two sections that attach in the mid-region, are flat and variously lobed in beautiful stellar-like designs. The more than 40 known species of Micrasterias may be further ornamented with patterns of pores, spines, granules, or other protuberances. Most often found in acidic waters and bogs, the organisms may grow between 80 to 200 micrometers in diameter. A typical species is Micrasterias crux-melitensis, which primarily inhabits moorlands and is approximately 102 to 129 micrometers long.