■if
spumaria Mucilago is the most common species of a very
small genus, and in the autumn may often he observed attached
to the stems or the inflorescence of grasses, very frequently, too,
several inches above the ground, so that its froth-like appearance
seems at first sight the production of some insect.
The genus was established by P e r s o o n at the expence
of that named Reticularia by B u l l i a r d . I t comes near to
M thnlium, of L i n k (the Reticularia hortensis. B u l l . ) , hut
is remarkably well characterised by the singular branched sub-
tubular membrane within, which seems to be an aggregate series
of peridia. The form of this species is inconstant, yet
there is a general tendency to an oval or roundish outline. This
was very conspicuous in the specimens represented in the plate,
and may be said to prevail in those of a moderate size.
Fig. 1. Plants o f S. Mucilago in an entire state. Fig. 2. A plant discharging
its sporidia. Fig. 3. A plant after the sporidia have escaped; natural size.
Fig. 4. Some o f the internal membranaceous folds. Fig. 5.
magnified.
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