
142 
Similarly with terricolous species, and those growing in pastures, 
where, however, the obstacles to accurate determination are greater 
still, but we have yet to learn that the existence of difficulties is a 
reason for avoiding a question to Nature ! It is important to know, 
not only whether the substratum is charcoal, burnt clay, sand, etc., but 
if the mycelium in open land runs into manure, humus, or even to the 
living roots of grasses, etc. Much has been accomplished, but more 
can be done by further observation in the field to direct the efforts of 
those who cultivate the forms with a view to settling these questions, 
and we must all admit that it is a branch of science that opens up 
splendid opportunities for research. 
We should like to see more information regarding the shade-bearing, 
moisture-loving, wind-enduring and frost-resisting capacities of groups 
of critical and closely allied species, as well as statistics regarding 
season, altitude, habitat, etc., recorded with all the care and complete- 
ness possible. An excellent beginning has been made; why not 
carry it further ? 
I must now conclude this series of jottings and questions, in which 
I fear little has been actually accomplished beyond exciting curiosity. 
But if I have succeeded in enlisting your co-operation in helping us 
to solve certain problems concerning the Hymenomycetes, much may 
yet come of it. Among the problems are :—What are the conditions 
which determine the sterility or otherwise of the mycelium ? How 
far are lignicolous or foliicolous forms able to adapt themselves to 
terricolous or coprophilous, etc., habitat ? What species are Myco- 
rhiza forms, or parasites, or facultative saprophytes fe 
Is there any connection between the habitat and nutrition of the 
species, and their specific and generic character, é.g., colour of 
spores, texture of pileus, hollow or stuffed stipes, adhesion, freedom 
etc. of lamellae, or minor characters of colour, silkiness, etc.,? Can 
we find in the distribution of the species in latitude or altitude any 
explanation of the variation which it is admitted occurs within the 
limits of accepted species? 
The answers to these and a number of other general questions which 
might be undertaken in the field, would be very welcome to those of 
us who have to wrestle with the difficult problems which the culture 
of these organisms present. 


