Cells are nearly cylindrical or barrel-shaped, with a slight median constriction, often swollen above and below the isthmus and joined by their flat ends to form slightly twisted filaments. Bambusina brebissonii is the type species. (Croasdale, H., Flint, E. & Racine, M. 1994. Flora of New Zealand Desmids III. - Landcare Research New Zealand Ltd.)