1 86 MUNSON. [Vol. \V. 



the cytoreticulum, where they can be traced for a considerable 

 distance. 



In cases where a distinct refractive body exists at the point 

 of convergence of the cytoplasmic fibrils, this point often lies 

 near the germinal vesicle ; and being about in the center of 

 the Qgg, the latter occupies a somewhat excentric position 

 (PI. XIV, Fig. 51). The fibers converging at this point, or, as 

 we may say, radiating from this point, are independent of one 

 another over a considerable area surrounding the point of con- 

 vergence ; but they ultimately become continuous with the 

 more reticulated portions of the cytoplasm. An area thus 

 exists near the germinal vesicle, where the fibers radiate ; and 

 being less dense, this area, at times at least, appears lighter 

 (PI. XIV, Figs. 50, 51, 54, 55). The area is usually round, 

 about equal to the germinal vesicle in size, and often flattened 

 or concave at that point where it is in contact with the germi- 

 nal vesicle (Fig. 50). At times the radial fibers may be very 

 distinct and numerous (Fig. 52). The radial fibers are some- 

 times definitely limited ; but at other times they can be traced 

 to the periphery of the egg, at that point opposite to the germi- 

 nal vesicle (Fig. 57), the central body being at times incon- 

 spicuous (Fig. 52), or at other times apparently consisting of 

 a relatively large granular body into which the radial fibers 

 can be seen to extend at variable distances (Fig. 57). The sys- 

 tem of radial fibers is not always so close to the germinal vesicle 

 as described above (PI. XVI, Figs. 87, 92, 97). The condition 

 of the radial fibers seems to vary. At times they appear as 

 rows of microsomes (PL XIV, Fig. 57) ; while at other times 

 they appear as comparatively homogeneous silken fibers, in 

 which varicosities do not come prominently into view (PI. XV, 

 Fig. 87). Some of this difference in appearance can no doubt 

 be ascribed in many cases to difference in the staining, but it 

 appears clear that the difference is often due to the condition 

 of the fibers themselves. 



In somewhat larger eggs the body appears more complicated. 

 Stained in Weigert's picro-carmine, it consists of a round, dark, 

 homogeneous central body surrounded by a clear zone which 

 again is surrounded by a somewhat lighter zone of granules (PL 



