ESSENTIAL OEGANS — STAMENS. 



221 



The anther is developed before the filament, and is always sessile 

 in the first instance. In many examples it continues permanently so. 



Fig. 361. Fig. 352. 



It appears in the form of a small cellular projection, containing a mass 

 of mucilaginous cells (fig. 351). In the progress of growth, certain 

 grooves and markings appear on its surface, and its interior becomes 



Fig. 363. 



Fig. 364. 



hollowed out into two marked cavities, containing a mucilaginous 

 matter (figs. 352, 353). In these cavities cells make their appearance 

 — the outer small (figs. 352, 353, q>), forming ultimately the en- 

 dothecium (fig. 350 cf) ; the interior layer forming cells in which 

 the pollen is produced (figs. 352, 353, up). As the cavities become 

 larger, the layer of cells (figs. 352, 353, ci) between the endothecium, 

 cp, and exothecium, ce, is gradually absorbed more or less completely, 

 forming at first septa in the cavities; and ultimately the anther 

 assumes its mature form, consisting of two lobes with their mem- 

 branous coverings (fig. 354 I). 



In the young state there are usually four cavities produced, two 

 for each anther-lobe, separated by the conmetive, and each divided by 



Fig. 351. Transverse section of an anther of Cuourbita Pepo, or Gourd, taken from a tad 

 aljont two millimetres, or l-12tli of an English inch, in length. Pig. 352. Similar hori- 

 zontal section from a tad in a more advanced state, ce. Outer layer of cellules (EwtJieGi/mn^ 

 forming the epidermis, ci. Intermediate layer of cellules in several layers, most of wliich 

 are ultimately absorbed, cp. Internal layer of ceUs (Eniothecmm). up, Anther-cavities 

 filled with large cells, which constitute the iirst state of the poUen-utricles, or pollinic cells. 

 Fig. 353. Similar section in a still more advanced state. The letters as in the last figure. 

 Fig. 864. Anther of the Almond-tree. 1. Seen in front. 'X Seen behind. //, Filament 

 attached to the connective, c, by a point. 1 1, Anther-lobes containing poUen. 



