(58) 



This very pretty and delicate species seems to be by no means rare ; 

 at least, if we understand it properly, it is a common form on the 

 east coast of Scotland. AU the specimens, however, that we have 

 received from correspondents are, we fear, referable to the young state of 

 L. saccharina. It is a very sociable species, growing always in dense 

 masses wherever we have found it, and usually near low-water mark ; 

 frequently on large stones in tide-pools, which it entirely covers, and 

 in narrow I'uts between rocks where a strong stream runs, which it often 

 fills up, swinging backwards and forwards with each retm-ning wave. 



As to its claims to specific distinction, we must acknowledge, that 

 although we have studied its development for several years, we still feel, 

 and even more than ever feel, unwilling to give n decided opinion. 

 Indeed, the more attention we have paid to the subject, the more 

 satisfied we are that there are two species ; but at the same time, the 

 less do we feel disposed to hazard an opinion, from a conviction that 

 the species are either very closely allied, or that their characters are 

 still but imperfectly understood. 



EXPLANATION OF PLATE CL. 



Fig. 1. — Laminaria phi/IIifis, uatuial size. 

 2. — Surface of frond. 

 3. — Section of same. Both magnified. 



w 



