152 
Notes. 
develops a very long hyaline outgrowth—the trichogyne—which first arises as a small 
blunt protuberance of protoplasm from the carpogonium, covered by the extended 
gelatinous wall of the thallus (Fig. 2, a). When mature, the trichogyne may be as 
much as 0-31 mm. in length; the apex is somewhat swollen, the contents staining 
deeply with Heidenhain’s iron-alum-haematoxylin, while the base is constricted at the 
point of attachment to the carpogonium (Fig. 2, a and b). 
The trichogyne nucleus' which appears to be characteristic of those Rhodophyceae 
which include an asexual phase in their life-cycle, is an absolutely constant feature in 
R. palmata. It is a well-marked, spherical body, situated approximately half-way 
Fig. 2. Outline drawings of transverse sections through procarpial thalli. A. Section through 
a group of young procarps, showing the trichogyne in various stages of development. B. Section 
through mature procarps, showing the chains of cells, and an elongated trichogyne with its nucleus. 
Both drawn with camera lucida. x 750. 
down the trichogyne (Fig. 2, b), and it remains visible until the latter shrivels up and 
disappears. 
The antheridial fronds have not yet been recognized, but spherical bodies closely 
resembling spermatia have been found seated in various positions on the majority of 
trichogynes. More than one of these bodies is usually found on a single trichogyne 
(Fig. 2, b). 
Further investigation is taking place into the differentiation of auxiliary cells, the 
fusions following fertilization, and the production of carpospores. 
Summary. 
1. The discovery of the female fronds of Rhodymenia palmata , Ag., is recorded, 
the procarps being developed in groups in acropetal succession. 
2. Each procarp bears a long trichogyne, with a distinct trichogyne nucleus. 
Bodies resembling spermatia have been seen seated on the trichogynes. 
3. Further work on the development of the carpospores is expected to confirm 
the systematic position of Rhodymenia palmata as a member of the Rhodymeniales. 
V. M. GRUBB. 
Westfield College, London, 
October 1922. 
