It is a common and widespread protozoan, found throughout the world in freshwater ponds, lakes, rivers and ditches.

[2][3] S. roeselii is found in still or slow-moving bodies of water, where it feeds on bacteria, flagellates, algae, and other ciliates.

When feeding, the cell is fixed in place (sessile), attached by a posterior "holdfast" organelle to a firm surface such as plant stem or submerged detritus.

In contraction, the macronucleus may show distinct nodules separated by constricted areas, giving it the appearance of a string of beads.

[4] The tail end of feeding organisms may be surrounded by a loose, mucilaginous lorica filled with debris and excreted matter.