Shapes are grouped according to common features. Scroll down to find the shape of the cell you are trying to identify, then click on the grouping.

Round or square with setae

Round or oval without spines or projections

Square or slightly elongate with spines or projections

Square, rectangular, or slightly elongate, without spines or projections

Rectangular with spines or projections

Rectangular, rounded or pointed, without spines or projections

Ovoid cells with lobes

Elongate, pointed or rounded

Ovoid cells with spines or projections

Armored, ovoid cells without spines or projections

Ovoid cells with rounded top and/or bottom, without spines

Ovoid cells with rounded top and/or bottom, with spines

Ovoid cells with prominent cingular and sulcal lists

Elongate oval, with or without flagella

Extremely elongate and straight

With two or more straight or curved horns or lobey projections

Oval or irregularly shaped with internal silica structure

Round, oval, or slipper-shaped, with or without flagella

Ovoid or elongate cells with cilia

Large ovoid cell with tentacle

Square or round (small centrics in both orientations)