Flagella Arrangement: They are typically biflagellate, with one flagellum located in a longitudinal groove (sulcus) and the other in a transverse groove (cingulum or girdle).

Cell Wall: They often have stiff cellulose plates (theca) on their outer surface, earning them the name "armoured" dinoflagellates.

Motion: Their movement is often described as a "spinning top" or whirling motion due to the action of the flagella, which is why they are sometimes called "whirling whips".

Habitat: Primarily marine, although they also exist in freshwater.

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