Phylum: Charophyta   Family: Desmidiaceae

Staurastrum vestitum J. Ralfs 1848

First described by Ralfs (1848: 143, pl. 23: 1a-e) and illustrated by Jenner.
Overall cell dimensions: L: 30-45 µm; B: 55-90 µm.; Is: 14-16 µm.
Found in slightly acidic habitats such as shallow lochs and moorland ponds. Also found in more acidic waters with Sphagnum. Possibly widespread in the Outer Hebrides but not common.

References: 
Coesel, P.F.M. & Meesters, K.J. (2013). European Flora of the Desmid Genera Staurastrum and Staurodesmus.
John, D.M. & Williamson, D.B. (2009). A Practical Guide to the Desmids of the West of Ireland.
Ralfs, J. (1848). The British Desmidieae.
West, W., West, G.S. & Carter, N. (1923). A Monograph of the British Desmidiaceae, Volume 5.