BatracJwspermece.'] batrachospermum. 351 



I knew well, however, what a prize I had got, and with the 

 fine specimens they formed, many friends were supplied. 

 The filaments were about six inches in length, and tlie 

 specimens shaded with tints of various colours. When 

 spread on paper, the beautiful beading of the filaments can 

 be seen by the naked eye, but it appears still more exqui- 

 sitely beautiful when a lens is applied. They are so gelati- 

 nous that in general they must be allowed to diy on the 

 paper before any pressure is applied. Early in April this 

 Batrachosperm makes its appearance as a light green down 

 on stones, or sometimes on grass, floating on the edge of 

 the pool. At a more advanced period it becomes detached, 

 and continues for a time to grow in a free state. 



There must be something peculiar in the water in which 

 it grows, for year after year it continues to be found in the 

 same little well, though not got in similar-looking wells for 

 many miles around. I have tried to transplant it into other 

 pools, but without success. 



2. Batrachospermum atrum, Bori/. 



Hab. In wells and little pools. 



A few years ago this was found for the first tiuie that it 

 had been got in Scotland, by D. L., jun., but it has been 

 found by him since in greater abundance and beauty in the 



