PREFACE TO THE ENGLISH EDITION. 
I po not deem it necessary to say anything in explanation of the reasons which 
have led to the preparation of this translation of Professor de Bary’s book on the 
morphology and biology of Fungi, Mycetozoa and Bacteria. It brings within reach 
of all English-speaking students the most thorough and comprehensive treatise upon 
these groups which has appeared in any language; and the picture that is presented 
of the state of our knowledge of the subject at this time, along with the suggestions 
and indications of the lines upon which further investigation is especially wanted, will, 
it is to be hoped, not only instruct readers, but also stimulate them to research. 
To render adequately some of the precise terminology has been a serious 
difficulty in the translation. The terms which have been adopted are consistently 
used, and the occasional notes, along with the ‘ Explanation of Terms’ which I have 
added, should prevent all misconception of their signification. It must be remembered 
that the definitions and synonymy given at the end of the book have reference to 
terms only as they are used in the text; they are not exhaustive. The extension of 
the original meaning of Berkeley’s term ‘ sporophore’ and its use as the equivalent of 
the German ‘Fruchttrager’ is a prominent innovation to which attention may be 
directed in this place.. 
Several friends have been so kind as to give me their opinion and criticism 
upon questions of terminology, and I have specially to acknowledge suggestions from 
Professor Bower, Mr. A. W. Bennett, Dr. S. H. Vines, and Professor Marshall Ward ; 
for help in some difficulties I have to thank the author himself. . 
I. B. B. 
OXFORD: March 1, 1887. 
