REPRODUCTION OF ALG^E 



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be regarded as the more important biological phenomenon. The 

 methods of reproduction have been seen to vary, not only 

 amongst closely related forms, but even in one and the same 

 species. But, with all this variety, the outcome is a cell, or 

 cells, each capable of giving rise to a new plant. 



Why reproductive bodies, capable of resisting adverse con- 

 ditions and of remaining dormant for considerable periods, should 

 be more particularly produced by sexual fusion, is a question as 

 yet unanswered. It is, however, easy to recognise the importance 

 of a second type of multiplication, by cells which, being un- 

 provided with either food-reserves or resistant walls, can be 

 formed rapidly and in large numbers. The association of this 

 type with asexual reproduction may perhaps be related to the 

 greater facility of responding to favourable conditions. 



