182 
Notes and Comments. 
there has been found great difficulty in germinating the seeds 
of Orchids, and to some extent this has been surmounted by 
sowing the seeds on soil used by the parent plant ; but now, 
when the appropriate fungus Rhizoctonia is supplied to the 
soil, the Orchid seeds germinate without difficulty. 
MICROSCOPIC MOULDS. 
Several species of microscopic moulds are engaged as 
Mycorrhiza, and it is interesting to notice that a non-chloro- 
phyllus Japanese orchid, * Gastrodia elata, is said to require the 
assistance of the rhizomorphs of our common woodland toad- 
stool, Armillaria mellea. Considering the nature and structure 
of the moulds and other delicate fungi known to take part as 
Mycorrhiza, and the mycelium {rhizomorphs) of Armillaria 
mellea, we are inclined to look upon this as a case of Orchid 
parasitism and not symbiosis. The seeds of orchids are ex- 
ceedingly minute, and are produced in immense numbers. 
Scott estimated the total number of seeds from a plant of 
Acr opera to be 74,000,000, and Charlesworth estimated 
825,000, from a single capsule of Cymbidium Tracey anum. 
The author considers that it is not unlikely that the enormous 
seed production is in some way related to the fungus question. 
He points out the various factors to ensure effective dissemina- 
tion, but unless the necessary fungus be to hand no germination 
occurs, the seed may develop to a certain extent, but it does 
not produce roots unless the appropriate fungus enters its cells. 
JOSEPH CHARLESWORTH. 
The late Joseph Charlesworth, realizing the mystery of 
orchid seedling growth, undertook, whilst at an advanced age, 
the microscopic examination of the orchid roots. He purchased 
microscopes, microtomes, ovens, stains and other apparatus 
required in microscopic technique, and in which work he 
became quite proficient. Fifteen photomicrographs of his 
preparations illustrate the article, and it has been left to 
Capt. Ramsbottom, with his academic training, to bring 
Charlesworth 5 s work down to the grip of the man in the street. 
The numerous quoted references will be helpful to other 
workers. It is hoped that the author, in a future communica- 
tion, will give a detailed account of his work, the nutrient 
media used, a list of the fungi acting in this symbiotic work, 
and illustrations of Rhizoctonia when isolated from its host. — 
W.N.C. 
EXHIBITION. 
In connexion with the Conference of Delegates from the 
Corresponding Societies of the British Association at Hull 
early in September, a special effort is being made to arrange 
an exhibition to illustrate the various activities of the sections 
Naturalist 
