Species of Tabularia are robust and "needle-like", with a broad sternum. The striae are relatively broad and composed of complex areolae. An apical porefield is present at each pole. Each valve possesses a single rimoportula, positioned near one pole.
Tabularia includes species that were formerly considered in Synedra, including S. tabulata and S. fasciculata. Members of the genus are found in marine and brackish waters, and other sites high in total dissolved solids. Some species are considered indicators of anthropogenic impact in inland waters.