SALVINIA. 177 



globules among them, wliich push the plant back as soon 

 as it is overturned. Thus the plants can ride secure in' 

 the heaviest storms. On the under side of the leaves 

 there are also numerous fine brown pellucid hairs. The 

 sporocarps are from four to eight in a cluster, and are 

 borne on a common stalk arising from the submerged 

 leaves. 



With the exception of the two questionable stations 

 in the United States, Salvinia natans is found only in 

 the Old World, extending from the south of France to 

 India and northern China. It thrives well in sunn\- 

 pools, spreading rapidly by division of the plant body. 

 It is also easily grown in a dish of water in the house. 

 Crayfish are said to feed upon the plant when other food 

 is scarce. 



