OPHIOGLOSSUM. 
211 
apex, fleshy, and hearing along each margin about six 
imbedded spore-cases, which at length burst transversely. 
The existence of this curious little plant in Guernsey 
was first made known in 1854, by Mr. G. Wolsey, who 
met with it above the rocks bordering on Petit Bot Bay, 
in that island. One remarkable feature of the plant is the 
very early period of the year at which its growth is made. 
By the middle of January it is fully developed, and the 
fronds no doubt perish early in the spring. 
The range of this Ophioglossum appears to be extensive; 
for it is recorded to inhabit the sandy coasts both of Europe 
and Africa, washed by the Mediterranean Sea; and to 
extend to the Canary Islands and Madeira. It is not 
improbable that a diligent search might be rewarded by its 
discovery in the western counties of England or in Ireland. 
Its early development and speedy decay should, however, 
be borne in mind by those who may undertake the search. 
