2 o 8 Fulton . — On the Dispersion of Fungi 
further, inasmuch as the spores were successfully germinated, 
and a comparative analysis of the physical properties of the 
Phalloidei is given. 
%. Phallus Impudicus. 
In the case of Cryptogams the dispersal of the spores usually 
takes place in a purely fortuitous manner, multitudes being 
blown about by the wind or carried by the movement of 
water. But among some of the higher and most complex 
fungi there exist contrivances and adaptations as remarkable 
and advantageous as among the Phanerogams, by which the 
more definite and purposive actions of insects are utilised for 
the dissemination of the spores. 
I have been able to investigate the subject completely only 
in the case of one fungus, Phallus impudicus , the common 
c Stinkhorn 5 of our woods ; but the conclusions will be found 
to apply to many others. 
The histology and development of Phallus have been de- 
scribed by Berkeley 1 , Corda 2 , Lespiault 3 , Rossmann 4 5 6 , and 
especially De Bary 5 , and several members of the group more 
recently by Fischer 6 ; but to understand the adaptations for 
the dispersion of the spores it will be necessary to give a brief 
account of its structure and life-history. 
Phallus is chiefly found in woods, but may also occur else- 
where — as in gardens, fields, etc. 
The hymenophore or reproductive portion consists in its 
earliest stages of minute swellings, which arise on the under- 
ground mycelium. These at first are homogeneous, but gradual 
differentiation goes on, so that towards maturity the following 
parts may be recognised: (i) An enclosing cortical portion, 
the volva or peridium, composed of three layers ; (a) an outer 
1 Ann. Nat. Hist., vol. iv, p. 158, PI. V, 1840. 
2 leones Fungorum, Tom. v, p. 71, Taf. VII, 1842. 
3 Ann. d. Sci. Nat, Ser. 5, Tom. iv, p. 44, PI. I, 1845. 
4 Bot. Zeit., 1853, p. 185, Taf. IV. 
5 Vergleich. Morphol. it. Biol, der Pilze, p. 346, 1884. 
6 Ann. du Jardin botanique de Buitenzorg, vol. vi, part 1, p. 1, Pis. I-V, 1886. 
