SLIME FUNGI (MYCETOZOA) 75 



lies in the power which they have of choosing between different 

 substances and creatures moving towards or away from what they 

 can feed upon or what is hurtful to them. It is possible by suitable 

 means to entice one of these networks (plasmodia) to move across 

 a dry surface to a moist one. 



The resting stage is characterised by spore-cases of various elegant 

 shapes and colours which vary in different species. The collection, 

 drawing, and identification of these fungi forms an interesting study 

 which requires no great trouble, but as it entails work with the 

 microscope, is beyond the limits of simple observational nature- 

 study, though it is very suitable for those who have begun their 

 scientific training.^ 



The question of resistance to drought, and the almost total cessa- 

 tion of life which some plants undergo, is one that has for a long 

 time occupied the attention of naturalists. 



Valuable experiments may still be done in this direction, to find 

 out the exact length of time that can elapse, after the drying up 

 process, before the creature finally dies. Some small animals will, it 

 is known, exist in a dry condition for several years. 



* The older pupils at St Margaret's School, Bushey, have worked upon the mycetozoa 

 with considerable success. 



