CLASSIFICA TION. 



of Diatoms* Dcsmidice^ Conferva, &c. The slime-like animals 

 are called by zoologists Rhizopods, while the ciliated forms are 

 distinguished by the appellation of infusoria. 



These, then, are the usual occupants of a drop of water, the 

 contemplation of which cannot but excite the curiosity of the 

 spectator, and call forth his warmest admiration. Curiosity will, 

 however, perhaps assume a deeper interest when he still more 

 closely examines their history. 



FIG. 3. VEGETABLE FORMS OF MICROSCOPIC ORGANISMS. 



There are in Sweden certain extensive tracts of country entirely 

 composed of an exceedingly fine earth, which, from its whiteness 

 and from an idea extensively prevalent that it possesses nutritious 

 properties, has long been distinguished by the name of Bcrgmelil, 

 or " mountain meal." A little of this earth, for long ages trodden 

 underfoot, submitted to the modern microscope, has revealed it- 

 self to be entirely resolvable into minute shells of exquisite beauty 



* 5i'aTo/xoj, diatomos, divided, f der/jAs, desmos, a band. 



