Descriptive Catalog 



CLASS HEPATICJE 



Small moss-like or thalloid plants of a lax cellular texture, 

 usually procumbent and emitting rootlets from beneath. Ca- 

 lyptra usually rupturing at the apex. Capsule irregularly de- 

 hiscent, bivalved, quadrivalved, quadridentate, or indehiscent, 

 containing spores mixed with thin thread-like cells, usually 

 containing one or more spiral fibres (elaters). Reproductive 

 organs of two kinds, variously situated, the matured archego- 

 nium forming the capsule. Columella rarely present. The 

 calyptra with its enclosed capsule is usually surrounded by a 

 tubular inner involucre, which in turn is surrounded by a tubu- 

 lar outward involucre or by involucral leaves. The calyptra is 

 always present; either involucre or both may be absent. 



ARTIFICIAL SYNOPSIS OF ORDERS 



r Vegetation thallose B 



A J Vegetation foliaceous; capsule quadrivalved or quadri- 

 dentate. Order IV. Jungermaniace.* (foUosoe 

 Gen. 6-32). 



Capsule indehiscent, elaters wanting. Order I. Ric- 



CIACE^. 



Capsule irregularly dehiscent, borne on the under side 

 of a pedunculate receptacle. Order II. Marchan- 



TIACEvE. 



Capsule bivalved C 



Capsule quadrivalved. Order IV. Jungermaniace^ 

 {tli<il/os(t' Gen. l-(i). 



