FROM A DREDGING IN THE WEDDELL SEA. 
685 
Epiphyton grande , sp. nov. 
An occasional group of a much larger algal form occurs with Epiphyton fascicu- 
latum. The relative size is clearly seen in PL I, fig. 3, when we compare b with a. 
In the former type the tubule is about twice the diameter of that in E.fasciculatum, 
and the distance between the bifurcations is also greater. Consequently a much 
more lax appearance is imparted to the whole thallus. Another specimen is repre- 
sented in PI. I, fig. 5, and here the branching character is particularly well exhibited. 
Occurring under precisely the same conditions as E. fasciculatum, the idea that we 
have here merely more robust examples cannot, I think, be admitted. If it were so, 
we should expect to find intermediate forms ; but only the two sizes of tubule occur. 
One is reminded in this connection of the two sizes of tubule in Micheldeania, but, 
in that genus, the two forms occur intergrown with one another, and not distinct and 
separate as in this case. While, therefore, one has a certain diffidence in erecting a 
new species where size is the chief diagnostic character, one feels that it is justifiable 
here. The new species, then, has tubules twice the diameter of those in E. fascicu- 
latum , and the bifurcations are twice to three times as far apart as in that species, so 
that either in transverse or longitudinal section the grouping is less compact. 
Compared with E. flabellatum, Bornemann, the new form is very similar as 
regards diameter of tubule. Indeed, taking Chapman’s figures, E. jiabellatum comes 
between E. fasciculatum and E. grande as regards this measurement. A greater 
distinction is visible when we consider the bifurcations. In E. jiabellatum and 
E. fasciculatum the bifurcations are close together and only differ in minute detail, 
while in E. grande the dichotomies are further apart and as a consequence the whole 
tuft presents a much more lax appearance. 
There are now three species of Epiphyton recorded from Cambrian rocks, all 
closely similar and quite distinct from any other alga yet recorded. Von Toll’s 
Confervites primordealis, Bornemann, from Siberia, seems almost certainly an 
Epiphyton, but details are lacking which would assist in placing the specimens in 
any of the above categories. 
ANIMALIA. 
Porifera. 
Spicules probably referable to this group occur occasionally in the sections, but 
unless the plane of section happens to pass through or near the point of junction 
of the various rays it is difficult to determine the precise type of spicule. Then 
again the original material has been removed in every case and casts in crystalline 
calcite have been formed. 
The most common type is that represented in PI. I, figs. 8 and 9. The spicule 
is large and the rays seem to unite in a flat head slightly domed in the centre 
