1 902 1 CURRENT LITER A TURE 245 



sperm. The chalaza and conducting region have a soluble carbohydrate 

 instead of starch, Microchemical tests, to;^ether with the cytological features 

 of the antipodal cells and the anatomical structure of the neighboring tissues, 

 lead to the conclusion that in Tricyrtis the antipodals are the center of 

 absorption of raw materials, of their elaboration into the proper form, and tlie 

 means of transmission of food to the proper place. The dextrin in the 

 micropylar portion of the integument is believed to serve for the nutrition 

 of the pollen tube, while that in the ^^^ supplies the embryo during its early 

 stages. The cutinization of the inner integument makes it necessary for most 

 food material from the exterior to pass through the antipodals.— Charles J. 

 Chamberlain. 



