MICRO-FUNGI IN NOVEMBER, 259 
The Phacidiacei, of which there are numerous species, and 
some of which may be easily found on dead leaves. On the holly 
leaves two species are frequently met with. In woods where the 
holly is plentiful, the dead leaves of the trees in winter are scattered 
about in thousands, and almost every leaf is beautifully spotted 
over with the conspicuous black fungus. ‘The two species I refer 
to are Phacidium ilicis and P. tlicts pulveracea. 
Leaves of other plants, now dead on the ground, are equally the 
habitats of members of this family. What I have said must be 
accepted as an indication of an interesting field of research to the 
student. 
There is a small, bright yellow or orange fungus to be found on 
damp old twigs and stumps in the shape of rounded spots. After 
along continuance of wet weather this is so abundant at times 
that it cannot be well overlooked, and more especially about this 
season. It is Zudbercularia vulgaris. It is also found on dead 
twigs upon the living tree. I have many times found it thus in 
Hough End Clough, within about a mile from Alexandra Park, 
Manchester. If examined, it is found to consist almost entirely of 
a mass of countless conidia. I have found November the best 
time to look for this fungus, and when I have set out on an expedi- 
tion for that purpose I have never failed to secure what I wanted. 
This fungus is, however, but the early condition of a more interest- 
ing plant, known as JVectria cinnabarina, in its perfect condition, 
and I have sometimes found it when the two conditions could be 
distinctly seen on the same stem, and when the change from the 
early state of the fungus to its perfect condition was taking place. 
I have at present specimens in my herbarium of that character by 
me which I obtained some years ago. 
The Nectria belong to the Spheeriacei, as also do the Dothidea, 
spoken of above, having spores in asci, and it requires a good lens 
to define them well. A fourth or a sixth i is the most suitable power 
for the purpose. 
The industrious student will meet with numerous other micro- 
fungi during the month equally interesting with those to which I 
have referred, but I have said enough to point out the vast field 
of research which lies before him, and I hope I have also said 
sufficient to stimulate his industry in the pursuit of a study, than 
which none is more delightful, nor does any provide for hima 
more ample reward. 
THoMAS BRITTAIN, 
