430 



PROCEEDINGS OF SECTION C. 



of the larger individual (of which only a portion is represented) small 

 spherical refractive bodies occur (E). As these have been noticed in 

 similar positions in several other specimens it seems probable that they 

 are organically important. They may be sexual products (gonads at 

 a late stage), or possibly represent gemmules, as in the Porifera. 



At F a large sponge spicule is apparent, lying quite isolated in the 

 matrix. This throws some light on the question of relationship to the 

 Porifera. If the septa and other skeletal elements of the Archfeo- 

 cyathinee ever consisted of spicular bodies it seems strange that their 

 internal structure — so perfectly preserved otherwise — ^should have 

 entirely vanished, while within five millimetres distance an isolated 

 sponge spicule is marvellously preserved ! 



This seems a strong argument against assigning the Archaeo- 

 cyathinsB to the Porifera, as none of the latter phylum are known to 

 possess well-defined septa devoid of spicular elements. 



Section illustrating Budding among the Archaocijathimids. 

 Primary Cup (A) shown in longitudinal section, Rhizoid Lamellce 

 at 'R. At G appears the cross section of a younger Cup arising 

 from the Rhizoid growth. An oblique section of a very young 

 Bud is seen at D, with the characteristically rounded Zoculi. 



