The Manchurian reed warbler (A. tangorum) was (and sometimes still is) included in A. agricola as a subspecies.

The genus name Acrocephalus is from Ancient Greek akros, "highest", and kephale, "head".

This passerine bird is a species found in low vegetation such as long grass, reeds and rice.

The sexes are identical, as with most warblers, but young birds are richer buff below.

The song is fast and similar to marsh warbler, with much mimicry and typically acrocephaline whistles added.