Diversity of Chrysophycean Stomatocysts in the Steppe Zone of the South Urals

Diversity of chrysophycean stomatocysts was studied in the steppe zone of the South Urals. A total of 14 stomatocyst morphotypes were identified, of which four were for the first time observed in Russia. Two morphotypes were described as novel. Morphological descriptions, scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images, and geographical locations were provided for all stomatocysts. High diversity of chrysophycean stomatocysts points to significant development of the chrysophyte flora in reservoirs of the steppe zone of the South Urals, making further research relevant.