VIRGULARIA MIRABILIS. 77 



point already explained ; and lastly, by the development of the very 

 remarkable system of vessels we have called radial vessels, which, 

 whatever their function may ultimately prove to be, are structures 

 not present in the other two genera, and the possession of which 

 stamps ]'irgularia as a more highly specialised form than these. 



In concluding our report, which various circumstances have com- 

 bined to render much more lengthy than we had anticipated when 

 commencing it, we desire to record our indebtedness to the members 

 of the Birmingham Natural History Society for the opportunity they 

 have afforded us of studying these rare and interesting forms ; and for 

 their liberality in placing the specimens at our disposal, and in 

 enabling us to illustrate ovir report in a manner that cannot fail to 

 greatly enhance its value. 



We have been compelled to leave many points undetermined, but 

 have in all such cases clearly indicated the nature of these points, and 

 the difficulties by which we were baffled ; and we have done tliis in the 

 hope that we may thereby direct attention to the important work yet 

 to be effected, and may facilitate in some measure the work of the 

 Society in its future dredging excursions. 



