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ing one generation, the sexual, so-called because of the fertiliza- 

 tion of the archegonia by the antherozoids. The spore bearing 

 fern is called the asexual generation because the spores are formed 

 by simple cell division without fertilization. The capsule and 

 seta of the moss correspond to this asexual generation of the fern. 



The great difference between the moss and the fern lies in 

 the fact that in the fern the asexual generation (gametophyte), 

 merely serves as a starting point for the young fern, while in the 

 case of the moss it persists and nourishes the asexual generation 

 (sporophyte), throughout its life and in many cases persists for 

 years, sending up a new sporophyte each year. 



In most of the mosses, however, the sporophyte has begun to 

 take care of itself. Referring to fig. 3 of our last issue, a small 

 knob, the apophysis or better the hypophysis, will be seen at the 

 base of the capsule. If we divide the capsule longitudinally we 

 shall find that the spore case does not extend to the hypophysis, 

 but the base of the capsule just above it consists of a loose mass 

 of cellular tissue. The walls of this part of the capsule are 

 pierced by numerous stomata (fig. 4), much like those of the 

 epidermis of the under side of plant leaves and serving the same 

 purposes. 



I. — Anacamptodon splachnoides (Frolich) Brid. 

 'HIS moss, though rare, has an extensive range, being known 



from Central and Southern Europe, and the Caucasian moun- 



tains, as well as from the mountainous regions of the Eastern 

 United States. Although small, and rarely found except in small 

 quantities, it is easily recognized by its dark green velvety appear- 

 ance and usually abundant fruit, which is so distinctive a char- 

 acter that it has given both the generic and specific names to this 

 species. The generic name refers to the teeth which are bent 

 backward, and the specific name indicates its resemblance to the 

 Splachnums, on account of the contraction below the mouth, 

 which is so noticeable in the older capsules. Besides its un- 

 mistakable appearance, this moss has also a peculiar habit, by 

 which it may be looked for and always recognized when found. 

 It always grows around the edges of cavities in trees, where water 

 stands, such as old knot-holes, in the forks of branches, and even 

 on blazed surfaces and scars, usually on fallen trees. It also 



NEW OR RARE MOSSES. 



