THE ORIGIN OF CORAL REEFS. vel 
of years old. As to the growth of coral, we need a wider basis and 
a longer period of observation, ere a final solution of our perplexities 
can be obtained. I have noted in the Pacific that the nearer we 
get to the equator the more numerous and extensive do these atolls 
become. The warmer the ocean the more active the coral zoophyte. 
In Torres Straits, and elsewhere, I have been astonished at the 
rapid growth of coral. Dr. Guppy’s theory, as to the formation of 
the Australian barrier-reef and other reefs, appears to me to be 
entirely sound. 
I may be permitted to add, that I have read Dr. Guppy’s work on 
the Solomon Islands with the greatest pleasure and profit. 
