CRYPTOGAMS 323 
D. MusHrooms 
Marteriau. — Any kind of gilled mushroom in different stages of de- 
velopment, with a portion of the substratum on which it grows, contain- 
ing some of the so-called spawn. The common mushroom sold in the 
markets (Agaricus campestris) can usually be obtained without difficulty. 
Full directions for cultivating this fungus are given in Bulletin 53 of the 
U. 8. Department of Agriculture. From 6 to 12 hours before the lesson 
is to begin, cut the stem from the cap of a mature specimen, close up to 
the gills, lay it, gills downward, on a piece of clean paper, cover with abowl 
or pan to keep the spores from being blown about by the wind, and leave 
until a print (Fig. 466) has been formed. 
367. Mushrooms and toadstools. — The popular distinc- 
tion which limits the term ‘‘ mushroom” to a single species, 
the Agaricus campestris, and classes all others as toadstools, 
has no sanction in botany. All mushrooms are toadstools 
and all toadstools are mushrooms, whether poisonous or 
edible. The real distinction is between mushrooms and 
‘puffballs, the former term being more properly applied to 
fungi which have the spore-bearing surface exposed. 
368. Examination of a typical specimen.— The most 
highly specialized of the fungi, and the easiest to observe on 
account of their size and abundance, are the mushrooms 
that are such familiar objects after every summer shower. 
The gilled kind — those with the rayed laminew under the 
cap— are usually the most easily obtained. Specimens 
should be examined as soon after gathering as possible, since 
they decay very quickly. 
369. The mycelium. — Examine some of the white fibrous 
substance usually called spawn through a lens. Notice 
that it is made up of fine white threads interlacing with each 
other, and often forming webby mats that ramify to a con- 
siderable distance through the substratum of rotten wood 
or other material upon which the fungus grows. This webby 
structure, often mistaken for root fibers, is the thallus or 
true vegetative body of the plant, the part rising above 
ground, and usuaily regarded as the mushroom, being only 
the fruit, or reproductive organ. Place some of the mycelium 
