摘要：The following light microscopy study is dedicated to the structural description of
resting cysts from two limnic heterotrichous species of ciliates, Blepharisma lateritium
(Ehrenberg, 1831) Stein, 1859 and Stentor roeselii Ehrenberg, 1835. Both
limnic samples were taken from the same location in Slovakia. In addition to standard
observations during the encystation process of B. lateritium (changes in shape,
volume, size; resorption of ciliature and others), we identified a specific structure
around the encysting cells known as the „paper layer“. The most significant feature
is the morphology of ectocyst and the presence of specific conical-shaped plug (escape
apparatus). In addition to B. lateritium resting cysts, we described the resting
cysts structure of S. roeselii for the first time. We recorded the unusual number of
pillars visible in the form of thin hem just below the cyst surface. The outer layer
(most likely ectocyst) appeared very striated, distally marked by a mucous layer.
Unambiguously, this is the most conspicious feature of the cystic wall. The literary
data suggest that there is still little information about these two species, as well as
about cyst morphology in ciliates in general. This work can provide the basis for
further research.
