Asterochloris is distinguishable from the morphologically similar genus Trebouxia, primarily due to its deeply lobed chloroplast, the placement of the chloroplast along the cell's periphery before the initiation of zoospore or aplanospore formation, and its tendency to primarily reproduce asexually through the production of aplanospores.

[7] Within the broader classification of green algae, Asterochloris belongs to the order Trebouxiales within the class Trebouxiophyceae.

Inside, there is a single chloroplast—the component responsible for photosynthesis—shaped like a thick cup with edges that resemble the rays of a star, and it may contain one or multiple pyrenoids.

Unlike some algae that reproduce through the production of autosporous (self-generating) spores, Asterochloris propagates through the release of zoospores or aplanospores.

[1] In 2015, Skaloud and Peksa updated the description of Asterochloris, providing more detailed insights into its cellular features and reproductive behaviours.

They also noted that zoospores are unique in their appearance, lacking a protective covering, being flattened from back to front, and equipped with two forward-facing flagella for movement.

Skaloud and Peksa also mentioned that sexual reproduction occurs but is rare, involving the merging of two similar (isogamous) gametes.