Database on distribution and ecology of silica-scaled chrysophytes from Siberia

Silica-scaled chrysophytes include algae within the class Chrysophyceae that are characterized by species-specific silica elements covering the cell. For this group, a well-established species concept based on the ultrastructure of these elements, studied through electron microscopy, has been developed. These organisms are widely distributed in freshwater ecosystems, where they form an important component of phytoplankton. Because individual scales can be used for species identification and remain preserved in sediments, silica-scaled chrysophytes are increasingly recognized as valuable indicators for monitoring freshwater ecosystems and as promising subjects for paleolimnological and biogeographic research. They also provide important material for investigating biodiversity and the processes underlying its formation. To support this work, an online database has been established documenting 194 species and intraspecific taxa of silica-scaled chrysophytes recorded from Siberian water bodies. Each species record includes original electron micrographs, sampling-site information with geographical coordinates linked to an online map, the sampling date, and key water-quality parameters, including temperature, pH, and electrical conductivity. The database is freely accessible to all interested researchers.