Phylum: Charophyta   Family: Desmidiaceae

Staurastrum inflexum L.A. de Brébisson 1856

First described and illustrated by Brébisson (1856: 140, pl. I: 25). Coesel & Meesters (2013: 89) moved it to a variety of St. cyrtaceum. Then, without further comment, Coesel & Meesters (2023: 235) returned it back to a full species. Cells slightly broader than long to about as broad as long. A wide-open sinus with a V-shaped apex. Semicell subcuneate with a convex apex. Processes convergent with a series of medium-sized concentric granules tipped with four small to medium-sized spines. Cells usually tri-radiate but occasionally quadri-radiate.
Cell dimensions: L: 25-29 µm; B: 27-37 µm; Is: 6.9-9.2 µm; L/B: 0.74-0.99.
This species prefers neutral to slightly alkaline habitats such as ephemeral pools. It needs to be compared closely with similar species such as St. subnivale.

References: 
Brébisson, L.A. de (1856) Liste des Desmidiées, observées en Basse-Normandie.
Coesel, P.F.M. & Meesters, K.J. (2013) European Flora of the Desmid Genera Staurastrum and Staurodesmus.
Coesel, P.F.M. & Meesters, K.J. (2023 second edition) Desmids of the Lowlands.