HEPATICAE 45 



assist in the distribution of the spores. The capsule opens 

 generally by splitting into 4 or (Anthoceros) 2 valves 

 (Fig. 38), rarely merely by decay or by means of a lid. 



Some species propagate themselves also in a vegetative 

 way by the agency of buds (bulbils), which are produced 

 in special receptacles. (Fig. 41.) 



The liverworts occur only in damp or moist and 

 mostly well shaded localities, hence they are specially 

 numerous in rainy regions. There are over 6000 species 

 known, but about 100 only from South Africa #. Some 

 of the largest genera are : 





Total number 

 of species 



Recorded from 

 South Africa 



Lejeunea 

 Plagiochila 



I760 



780 



15 



7 



Frullania 



69O 



10 



Mastigobryum 



340 



1 



Order I. JUNGERMANIALES. 



Plant either with stem and leaves, or flat and thalloid. The sexual 

 organs not borne on special receptacles. The sporogonium (capsule) stalked, 

 opening by four valves and containing spores as well as elaters. 



Order II. MARCHANTIALES. 



Plant thalloid (frondose). The sexual organs mostly borne on special 

 receptacles. The sporogonium sessile or very shortly pedunculate, opening 

 either by decay or by a circular fissure, or by teeth, and containing spores, 

 either alone or mixed with elaters or other sterile cells. 



Order III. ANTHOCEROTALES. 



Plant thalloid (frondose). The sporogonium nearly sessile, thinly cylin- 

 drical, not unlike a siliqua. The centre of the sporogone is sterile and forms the 

 columella , the sporogonial tissue being derived from the outer layer of the 

 embryo. Sporogonium opening by two valves and containing spores as well 

 as elaters. 



* It is highly probable that there are many more species of liverworts in South Africa, 

 for the Rev. A. E. Eaton collected in Aug. and Sept. 1874, merely on the northern side 

 of Table Mountain 40 species, of which 6 were new to science. See. literature, page 246. 



