Molecular phylogenetics analysis revealed that species previously classified within Echinoplaca actually formed two distinct clades, leading to the establishment of Sipmanidea as a separate genus.

One of the most charactersitic features is the presence of delicate, white, branching hair-like structures (setae) that emerge from a clear or translucent base layer (prothallus) that spreads across the leaf surface.

Under a microscope, the spores (ascospores) can be seen to have multiple compartments divided by both vertical and horizontal walls, creating a muriform or "brick-wall" pattern.

The thin threads end in swollen segments that resemble sperm cells, a characteristic that helps distinguish this genus from its relatives.

These features, particularly the combination of branched setae, crystalline coating, and specialised reproductive structures, make Sipmanidea distinct from other closely related lichen genera.