In the floral structure of Cryptocentrum, furthermore, 
we find evidence of a more complex nature than would 
be normal for the subtribe Maaillarieae. The lateral se- 
pals are connivent at the base and form a very prominent 
sepaline spur to which the claw of the lip is internally 
adnate for its entire length. This feature is observable 
in the genus Sepalosiphon in addition to Cryptocentrum. 
(Sepalosiphon is known only from New Guinea.) Though 
we have here a striking homology in floral structures, the 
two genera are vegetatively very dissimilar. In both cases 
the column is very short, more or less petaloid and with- 
out a foot. The incumbent anther rests on a more or less 
ascending and acicular rostellum. 
In applying these observations to Schlechter’s ‘‘Sys- 
tema Orchidacearum,’’ we find that the characters of the 
subtribe Mawillarieae are very different, as shown in the 
following tabular comparison. 
MAXILLARIFAE CRYPTOCENTRUM 
Rostellum not evident. Rostellum prominent. 
Column elongate and with a definite Column short and footless. 
foot which forms, with the lateral se- No mentum present. 
pals, a more or less prominent mentum. 
Lateral sepals not spurred. Lateral sepals spurred. 
Lip articulate with the column foot; Lip adnate to the spur; disc 
dise with a longitudinal callus. ecallose. 
It is clear that Cryptocentrum cannot be maintained in 
the subtribe Maaillarieae. In following through Schlech- 
ter’s system, the characters of Cryptocentrum as tabu- 
lated above, give us substantial ground to warrant the 
erection of a new subtribe, which should be placed be- 
tween Ornithocephaleae and Saundersieae. 
Cryptocentreae Garay subtribus nova. 
Pollinia 4. Plantae epiphyticae, pusillae. Pseudobulbi 
rudimentarii vel deficientes. Caules satis abbreviati, pseu- 
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