chondrus. 465 



Habitat. — Rocky sea bottom, in clear water, very rarely 

 epiphytic on other algse ; low-water mark. Very common 

 in the district. 



Distribution. — Atlantic shores of northern hemi- 

 sphere. 



Economics. — It might be mentioned here — although the 

 point is of no interest botanically — that Chondrus crispus 

 was formerly often used, and — I am credibly informed — 

 is still occasionally used, in the making of jellies. It is 

 known as Irish Moss, or carragheen, by chemists, and was 

 supposed to be useful against consumption. 



In Conclusion, I would like to say that it is most im- 

 portant that the student, who has worked through 

 Chondrus crispus, should examine a number of other red 

 algse. 



If staying near the seaside, seaweeds should be collected 

 and carefully examined. Drawings should be made of a 

 few anatomical details and of the reproductive organs. 

 An attempt should be made to name the specimens 

 collected. It may often be impossible for the beginner to 

 determine the species, and he must be content if he can 

 ascertain the genus to which it belongs. If he also fails 

 in the latter, the material, together with the drawings, 

 should be laid aside for future reference. 



Unfortunately we are very badly off at present for any 

 book on the British Algse The very good Phycologia 

 Britannica of Harvey was published in 1871, and is there- 

 fore very much out of date. Its illustrations are, however, 

 as a rule very good, and the student can use it as a 

 beginning. But many of the generic and specific names 

 have changed since 1871, and a very large number of new 

 species have been added to our flora. 



