Oxyrrhis marina is one of dinoflagellates and widely distributed in the global coastal waters, which can initiate algal blooms at the appropriate time and now became model marine planktons for laboratory marine biology experiments. However, preliminary studies on microscopic structures and feeding of Oxyrrhis marina are carried out only in China. Present study described the progress on morphology, taxonomic status, feeding method, laboratory culture, natural distribution of O. marina and discussed relationships of red tide, dimethylsulfide, other marine organisms and O. marina. Some advice was proposed on exploring research of ecological characteristics of Oxyrrhis marina and indicating that ecological characteristics are the basis to rationally use and effectively regulate the algae.