The Project Gutenberg eBook of Report on the Radiolaria Collected by H.M.S. Challenger During the Years 1873-1876, First Part: Porulosa (Spumellaria and Acantharia), by Ernst Haeckel

Report on the Radiolaria collected by H.M.S. Challenger during the years
1873-1876.

The Report on the Radiolaria by Professor Ernst Haeckel of Jena occupies the whole of the present Volume, the text being bound up in Two Separate Parts and the Plates in a Third Part. The Report forms Part XL. of the Zoological Series of Reports on the Scientific Results of the Expedition, and is the largest single Report of the series which has up to this time been published.

The Manuscript of the Systematic Part was written by Professor Haeckel in the English language, and was received by me in instalments on the 12th August 1884, 13th July and 4th December 1885, and 3rd June 1886. The Introduction was written in German and was translated into the English language by Mr. W. E. Hoyle of the Challenger Editorial Staff; the German text being received in instalments between the 15th July 1886, and the 25th January 1887.

The Challenger Naturalists found the representatives of this group of animals to be universally distributed throughout ocean waters, and their dead remains to be nearly equally widely distributed over the floor of the ocean, the relative abundance and the species differing, however, with change of locality, and their abundance or variety being intimately connected with some of the most interesting and intricate problems of general oceanography.

It was a fortunate circumstance that so distinguished a Naturalist, with such an intimate knowledge of the Radiolaria, should have been willing to undertake the laborious examination and description of the extensive collections made during the Expedition. Professor Haeckel has devoted ten years of his life to this work, and this Report sets forth the results of his labours, on the conclusion of which he will be congratulated by all Naturalists. The entire literature of the Radiolaria (from 1834 to 1884) is completely recorded, and the older species (both living and fossil) redescribed, so that the Report is a complete Monograph, which will be an invaluable aid to all future Investigators.

The significance of the Radiolaria in regard to the relations of life in the ocean has been increased in a most unexpected manner by the discoveries of the Challenger. Large swarms of these delicate Rhizopoda were found not only at the surface of the open ocean but also in its different bathymetrical zones. Thousands of new species make up the wonderful Radiolarian ooze, which covers large areas of the deep-sea bed, and was brought up from abysses of from 2000 to 4000 fathoms by the sounding machine of the Challenger. They open a new world to morphological investigation.

When ten years ago (in the autumn of 1876) I accepted the enticing invitation of Sir Wyville Thomson to undertake the investigation of these microscopic creatures, I hoped to be able to accomplish the task with some degree of completeness within a period of from three to five years, but the further my investigations proceeded the more immeasurable seemed the range of forms, like the boundless firmament of stars. I soon found myself compelled to decide between making a detailed study of a selection of special forms or giving as complete a survey as possible of the varied forms of the whole class; and I decided upon the latter course, having regard both to the general plan of the Challenger Reports, and to the interests of our acquaintance with the class as a whole. I must, however, confess at the close of my work that my original intention is far from having been fulfilled. The extraordinary extent and varied difficulties of the undertaking must excuse the many deficiencies.

The special examination of the Challenger collection was for the most part completed in the summer of 1881; I collected its results in my Entwurf eines Radiolarien-Systems auf Grund von Studien der Challenger-Radiolarien (Jenaische Zeitschr. f. Naturw., Bd. xv., 1881). Since the manuscript of this preliminary communication was completed only a few days before my departure for Ceylon, and since I was unable to correct the proofs myself, several errors have crept into the Prodromus Systematis Radiolarium included in it. These have been corrected in the following more extensive working out of it. Even at that time I had distinguished 630 genera and more than 2000 species; but on the revision of these, which I undertook immediately on my return from India, this number was considerably increased. The total number of forms here described amounts to 739 genera and 4318 species; of these 3508 are new, as against 810 previously described. In spite of this large number, however, and in spite of the astonishing variety of the new and marvellous forms, the riches of the Challenger collection are by no means exhausted. A careful and patient worker who would devote a second decade to the work, would probably increase the number of new forms (especially of the smaller ones) by more than a thousand; but for a really complete examination, the lifetime of one man would not suffice.

The richest source of the Challenger material is the Radiolarian ooze of the central Pacific Ocean (Stations 265 to 274). This remarkable deep-sea mud consists for the greater part of well-preserved siliceous shells of Polycystina (Spumellaria and Nassellaria). Not less important, however, especially for the study of the Acantharia and Phæodaria, are the wonderful preparations stained with carmine and mounted in Canada balsam on the spot by Dr. John Murray. One such preparation (e.g., from Station 271) often contains twenty or thirty, sometimes even fifty new species. In many of these preparations the individual parts of the unicellular organism are so well preserved that they show clearly the characteristic peculiarities of the legions and orders. Since the material for these preparations was taken with the tow-net, not only from the surface of the sea but also from different bathymetrical zones, it furnishes valuable conclusions regarding the chorology, as well as the physiology and morphology of the group. For many new discoveries I am indebted to the study of such preparations, of which I have examined about a thousand from 168 different Stations (compare § 240). In addition to these about 100 bottles were handed to me, containing partly bottom-deposits, partly tow-net gatherings.

Sir Wyville Thomson, who directed the investigations of the Challenger with so much devotion, and only partly saw its results, has laid me under a deep debt of obligation; not less is this the case, however, with his successor, Dr. John Murray. I am especially indebted to both gentlemen for the freedom they have allowed me in the carrying out of my work, and especially for the permission to include a description of all known Radiolaria in the Challenger Report, which has thus become a second edition many times enlarged of my Monograph published in 1862. Since all previous literature of the subject has been consulted and critically revised, it is hoped that this Report will form a useful foundation for future investigations. All names of sufficiently described Radiolaria published during the first half century of our knowledge of the class (from 1834 to 1884), are inserted in alphabetical order in the index at the end of this work.

In addition to the treasures of the Challenger, my own collection of Radiolaria has yielded many new forms whose description is here included. On my journeys to the Mediterranean (an account of which is given in the introduction to my Monograph of the Medusæ), I have given special attention to these delicate microscopic organisms for more than thirty years. Besides the various points on the Mediterranean, the Atlantic Ocean at the Canaries (in the winter of 1866-67) yielded many interesting new forms; whilst my voyage across the Indian Ocean, from Aden to Bombay, in November 1881, thence to Ceylon and back by Socotra in March 1882, was still more productive. In particular, some extended excursions which I had the opportunity of making from Belligemma and Matura (at the southern extremity of Ceylon) gave me an insight into the rich treasures of the Indian Ocean.

Most important, however, as regards the knowledge of the Indian Radiolaria, are the collections which Captain Heinrich Rabbe of Bremen has so beautifully preserved during his many voyages through that region. In the neighbourhood of Madagascar and the Cocos Islands more especially, and also in the Sunda Archipelago, he met with large swarms of Radiolaria, among which were many new and remarkable forms. These were of special value for completing the chorology, and the more so since the course of the Challenger in the Indian Ocean lay very far to the southwards. I will therefore take this opportunity of repeating my best thanks to Captain Rabbe for the friendly donation of his valuable collection.

The Radiolarian fauna of the North Atlantic Ocean, which was previously but little known and only slightly increased by the investigations of the Challenger, received a valuable increase from the interesting collections made by Dr. John Murray on various expeditions to the Færöe Islands (on the "Knight Errant" in 1880 and on the "Triton" in 1882). A large number of new Radiolaria were captured in the Færöe Channel, partly at the surface of the Gulf Stream, partly at various depths, and the proof was thus furnished that at certain points in the North Atlantic Ocean Radiolaria are very richly developed. I am further indebted to Dr. John Murray for the free use of this important material as well as for much other assistance in the carrying out of my work. Another rich source of Radiolaria I found in the alimentary canal of pelagic animals from all seas. Medusæ, Siphonophoræ, Salpæ, Pteropoda, Heteropoda, Crustacea, &c., which live partly at the surface of the sea and partly at various depths, and swallow large masses of Radiolaria, often contain numbers of their shells well-preserved in their intestine. The alimentary canal of Fishes and Cephalopods too, which live upon these pelagic animal frequently contains considerable quantities of siliceous shells; and another newly discovered source has been found in the coprolites of the Jurassic period, which consist largely of Radiolarian skeletons.

In the investigation of this complicated system of organisms, I have endeavoured on the one hand to give accurately the forms and dimensions of the species observed, and on the other hand to present a survey of the relationships of the different genera and families; and in this I have striven especially to combine the phylogenetic aims of the natural system with the essentially artificial divisions of a practical classification. Being, however, a conscientious supporter of the theory of descent, I can of course lay no stress upon the value of the categories, which are here distinguished as Legions, Orders, Families, Genera, &c. All these artificial systematic grades I regard as of merely relative value; and from the same cause I attach no importance to the distinction of all the species here described; many of them are probably only developmental stages, and like my predecessors I have determined their boundaries on subjective grounds. In the systematic working out of so much material one always runs the risk of doing either too much or too little in the way of creating species; but in the light of the theory of descent this danger is of no consequence.

In the carrying out of this extensive task the friendly aid of Dr. Reinhold Teuscher of Jena was of the greatest benefit to me; at my request he was at the trouble of making a large number of accurate drawings with the camera lucida, and he also undertook a long series, amounting to some 8000, accurate micrometric measurements, which were of the greatest value in the attempt to settle the important question of the constancy of the various species; I have alluded to this in a note at the conclusion of the Report (p. 1760). My best thanks are due to Dr. Teuscher for the patient and careful manner in which he discharged these tedious tasks.

The figures of new species of Radiolaria (about 1600 in number) which appear in the atlas of one hundred and forty plates accompanying this Report, were nearly all drawn with the camera lucida, partly by Mr. Adolph Giltsch and partly by myself. The names of the genera which appear at the bottom of the plates have in many cases been changed since they were printed off, as may be seen from the explanations which accompany them. Had it been possible to complete the examination of the material before the plates were commenced this might have been avoided, and in many cases a better selection of figures might have been made. All the drawings have been made upon the stone by the practised hand of Mr. Adolph Giltsch, in his usual masterly manner, and his lithographic work, which has lasted fully ten years, is the more valuable since he has himself microscopically studied the greater part of the species figured. The fact that the atlas presents so full a picture of the marvellous wealth of form of the Radiolaria is especially due to his lively interest in the work, to his unwearying care, and to his morphological acuteness. May it be the means of inducing many naturalists to study more deeply this inexhaustible kingdom of microscopic life, whose endless variety of wonderful forms justifies the saying—Natura in minimis maxima.

A SKETCH OF OUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE ORGANISATION OF THE RADIOLARIA IN THE YEAR 1884.

Chapter I.—THE UNICELLULAR ORGANISM.

(§§ 1-50.)

1. Definition of the Radiolaria.—Radiolaria are marine Rhizopoda, whose unicellular body always consists of two main portions, separated by a membrane; an inner Central capsule (with one or more nuclei) and an Extracapsulum (the external calymma, which has no nucleus, and the pseudopodia); the endoplasm of the former and the exoplasm of the latter are connected by openings in the capsule-membrane. The central capsule is partly the general central organ of the Radiolarian cell, partly the special organ of reproduction, since its intracapsular protoplasm, along with the nuclei embedded in it, serves for the formation of flagellate spores. The extracapsulum is partly the general organ for intercourse with the outer world (by means of the pseudopodia), partly the special organ of protection (calymma) and nutrition (sarcomatrix). The majority of Radiolaria develop also a skeleton for support and protection, which presents the utmost variety of form, and is generally composed of silica, sometimes of an organic substance (acanthin). The Radiolarian cell usually leads an isolated existence (Monozoa vel Monocyttaria); only in a small minority (of one legion) are the unicellular organisms united in colonies or cœnobia (Polyzoa vel Polycyttaria).

The extent of the Radiolaria, as limited by the above definition, which I have made as compact as possible, differs in several important respects from that allowed to the group by all previous diagnoses. The shortest expression of its scope might perhaps be:—Rhizopoda with central capsule and calymma; for the most important character of the Radiolaria, and that by which they are distinguished from all other Rhizopoda, is the differentiation of the unicellular body into two principal parts of equal importance and their separation by a constant capsule-membrane.

2. The Two Subclasses of the Radiolaria.—The systematic catalogue of the Radiolaria, which forms the second part of this Report, and is brought up to the year {ii}1884, contains 20 orders, 85 families, 739 genera, and 4318 species. The consideration that but a small proportion of the ocean his yet been investigated renders it likely, however, that even this large number does not include the half of the recent species. The great progress which our knowledge of the organisation of the Radiolaria has made, by means of comparative study, renders it possible to arrange this enormous mass of forms in four main divisions or legions, and these are again related in pairs, so that two divisions of the highest rank or subclasses are constituted, the Porulosa (or Holotrypasta) and Osculosa (or Merotrypasta).

The division of the Radiolaria into two subclasses and four legions (or principal orders), I sought to establish in 1883 in a communication on the Orders of the Radiolaria (Sitzb. Jena Gesellsch. Med. u. Naturwiss., February 16, 1883). As a believer in the theory of descent, I regard all the systematic arrangements of specialists as artificial, and all their divisions as subjective abstractions, and hence I shall be guided in the establishment of such groups as subclasses, legions, orders, &c., by purely practical considerations, especially by the desire to give as ready a survey as possible of the complex multitude of forms (compare §§ 154 to 156).

3. Porulosa or Holotrypasta.—The subclass Porulosa or Holotrypasta includes the two legions, Peripylea or Spumellaria, and Actipylea or Acantharia, which agree in the following constant and important characters:—(1) The Central Capsule is primitively a sphere, and retains this homaxon form in the majority of the species. (2) The Membrane of the central capsule is everywhere perforated by very numerous minute pores, but possesses no larger principal aperture (osculum). (3) The Pseudopodia radiate in all directions and in great numbers from the central capsule, passing through its pores. (4) The Equilibrium of the floating unicellular body is in most Porulosa pantostatic (indifferent) or polystatic (plural-stable), since a vertical axis is either absent, or, if present, has its two poles similarly constituted. (5) The Ground-forms of the skeleton are therefore almost always either spherotypic or isopolar-monaxon, very rarely zygotypic. The two legions of the Porulosa are distinguished mainly by the skeleton of the Spumellaria (or Peripylea) being siliceous, never centrogenous, nor composed of acanthin, whilst in the Acantharia (or Actipylea) it is always centrogenous and made up of acanthin; hence in the former the nucleus is always central, in the latter always excentric.

4. Osculosa or Merotrypasta.—The subclass Osculosa or Merotrypasta includes the two legions Monopylea or Nassellaria, and Cannopylea or Phæodaria, which agree in the following constant and important characters:—(1) The Central Capsule is originally monaxon (ovoid or spheroidal) and retains this ground-form in most of the species. (2) The Membrane of the central capsule possesses a single large principal aperture (osculum) at the basal pole of the vertical main axis. (3) The Pseudopodia radiate from a stream of sarcode which passes out from the central capsule only on one side, namely, through the principal aperture. (4) The Equilibrium of the floating body is {iii}monostatic or unistable, since the two poles of the principal axis are always more or less different from each other. (5) The Ground-forms of the skeleton are, therefore, for the most part grammotypic (centraxon) or zygotypic (centroplan), rarely spherotypic. The two legions of the Osculosa are distinguished chiefly by the principal opening (osculum) being closed by a porous plate (porochora with its podoconus) in the Nassellaria (or Monopylea), and by a radiate cover (operculum with its astropyle) in the Phæodaria (or Cannopylea).

5. The four Legions of Radiolaria.—The four principal groups of Radiolaria, to which we have given the name "legions," are natural units, since the most important peculiarities in the structure of the central capsule are quite constant within the limits of the same legion, and since all the forms in the same legion may be traced without violence to the same phylogenetic stem. The four legions are, however, related to each other, in so far as they all exhibit those characters which distinguish the Radiolaria from other Protista. The two which compose the Porulosa (§ 3) seem somewhat more nearly related to each other than to the two which make up the Osculosa (§ 4). When, however, the attempt is made to bring them all into a phylogenetic relationship, it undoubtedly appears that the Spumellaria (or Peripylea) are the primitive stem, out of which the other three have been developed as independent branches. All three have been derived, probably independently, from the most ancient stem-form of the Spumellaria, the spherical Actissa.

6. Peripylea or Spumellaria.—Those Radiolaria which we call "Peripylea" on account of the constitution of their central capsule, or "Spumellaria" on account of the nature of their skeleton, are separated from the other three legions of the class by the combination of the following constant characters:—(1) The Membrane of the central capsule is single and evenly perforated all over by innumerable fine pore-canals, but without any larger principal opening (osculum). (2) The Nucleus always lies centrally in the Spumellaria monozoa and is serotinous, for it divides only at a later period into the nuclei of the spores; in the Spumellaria polyzoa it is precocious, and divides early into many small nuclei. (3) The Pseudopodia are exceedingly numerous and distributed evenly over the whole surface of the central capsule. (4) The Calymma contains no phæodium. (5) The Skeleton is seldom wanting, is never centrogenous, and is always siliceous. (6) The Ground-form of the central capsule is originally spherical (often modified); that of the skeleton is also spherical or, in the majority of cases, derived in different ways from the sphere.

7. Actipylea or Acantharia.—These Radiolaria which we call "Actipylea" on account of the constitution of their central capsule, or "Acantharia" from the formation of their skeleton, are separated from the other three legions by the combination of the following constant characters:—(1) The Membrane of the central capsule is single and {iv}perforated by numerous fine pore-canals, which are regularly distributed in series or groups, but without a larger principal opening (osculum). (2) The Nucleus is always excentric and generally precocious, since it divides early by a peculiar process of budding into numerous small nuclei. (3) The Pseudopodia are very numerous and distributed regularly in groups (or series united into a network). (4) The Calymma contains no phæodium. (5) The Skeleton is generally present, always centrogenous, and composed of acanthin. (6) The Ground-form of the central capsule is originally spherical (often modified), that of the skeleton polyaxon (often modified).

8. Monopylea or Nassellaria.—Those Radiolaria which we call "Monopylea" from the formation of their central capsule, or "Nassellaria" from the nature of their skeleton, are distinguished from the other three legions of the class by the combination of the following constant characters:—(1) The Membrane of the central capsule is single, and has only one large principal opening (osculum) at the basal pole of the vertical main axis; this osculum is closed by a perforated lid (porochora or operculum porosum) from which there arises within the central capsule a peculiar cone of threads or pseudopodia (podoconus). (2) The Nucleus is usually excentric and is always serotinous, since it only divides at a comparatively late period into spore-nuclei. (3) The Pseudopodia are not very numerous and arise by division of a single stem or bundle of threads of sarcode, which issues from the porochora. (4) The Calymma contains no phæodium. (5) The Skeleton (very rarely absent) is never centrogenous, but always extracapsular and siliceous. (6) The Ground-form of the central capsule is always monaxon (with a vertical allopolar main axis), originally ovoid, often modified; that of the skeleton is also generally monaxon, often modified (triradial or bilateral).

9. Cannopylea or Phæodaria.—Those Radiolaria which we call "Cannopylea" from the constitution of their central capsule, or "Phæodaria" on account of their peculiar phæodium, are distinguished from the other three legions by the combination of the following characters:—(1) The Membrane of the central capsule is double, consisting of a strong outer and delicate inner capsule, and has only one principal opening (osculum) at the basal pole of the vertical main axis; this osculum is closed by a radiate cover (astropyle or operculum radiatum), from the centre of which arises an external tubular spout (proboscis). Occasionally a few small accessory openings (parapylæ) are present besides the principal opening. (2) The Nucleus lies centrally or subcentrally in the capsule (in the vertical main axis), and is serotinous, inasmuch as it only divides at a late period into spore-nuclei. (3) The Pseudopodia are usually very numerous and arise from a thick sarcomatrix, formed by the spreading out of a thick stem of sarcode, which issues from the astropyle. (4) The Calymma always contains a phæodium or peculiar voluminous excentric mass of pigment. (5) The Skeleton (very rarely absent) is never centrogenous, always extracapsular and formed of a silicate of carbon. (6) The {v}Ground-form of the central capsule is always monaxon (with a vertical allopolar main axis) and generally spheroidal; that of the skeleton is very varied.

First Subclass.
Porulosa vel Holotrypasta. Central capsule originally spherical, without osculum or principal opening, with innumerable fine pores.
Legion I. Spumellaria. (Peripylea).	Legion II. Acantharia. (Actipylea).
Central capsule originally spherical, homaxon.	Central capsule originally spherical, homaxon.
Capsule-membrane single, pores innumerable, distributed all over.	Capsule-membrane single, pores numerous, regularly distributed.
Nucleus central, originally spherical (usually dividing late).	Nucleus excentric, (usually dividing early).
Skeleton absent or siliceous, never centrogenous.	Skeleton always of acanthin, always centrogenous.
Calymma always without phæodium.	Calymma always without phæodium.
Second Subclass.
Osculosa vel Merotrypasta. Central capsule originally monaxon, with an osculum at the basal pole of the vertical main axis.
Legion III. Nassellaria. (Monopylea).	Legion IV. Phæodaria. (Cannopylea).
Central capsule originally ovoid, monaxon.	Central capsule always spheroidal, monaxon.
Capsule-membrane single, a porous area (porochora) at the oral pole of the main axis.	Capsule-membrane always double, an astropyle (with radiate operculum) at the oral pole of the main axis.
Nucleus excentric, near the aboral pole (dividing late).	Nucleus always spheroidal, in the main axis (dividing late).
Skeleton siliceous, usually monaxon, extracapsular.	Skeleton of a silicate, always extracapsular.
Calymma always without phæodium.	Calymma always with phæodium.

11. Individuality of the Radiolaria.—Like other Protozoa the Radiolaria are unicellular organisms, the whole fully developed organisation of which falls under the category of a single cell, both morphologically and physiologically. Since this view is based upon the composition of the individual body out of two different morphological elements, nucleus and protoplasm, it is at once justified in the case of the majority of Radiolaria, in which the plasmatic body encloses only a single nucleus (the so-called "Binnen-Bläschen"); such is the case in all the Spumellaria monozoa, Nassellaria and Phæodaria. This aspect of the case might appear doubtful in those Radiolaria in which the simple primary cell-nucleus divides early into numerous small secondary nuclei, as is the case in the Spumellaria polyzoa and most Acantharia. Strictly speaking, the multinucleate central capsule should in such cases be regarded as a syncytium; but since the individual unity of the unicellular organism is as clearly defined in these precocious multinuclear Radiolaria as in the ordinary serotinous forms, the former must be considered unicellular Rhizopods just as are the latter. This mode of regarding {vi}the case is the more necessary, inasmuch as the early division of the nucleus has no further influence upon the organisation. Just as in many other classes of the Protista there are monozootic (solitary) and polyzootic (social) forms, so also in the Radiolaria there are in addition to the ordinary monozootic or monobious forms certain families in which colonies or cœnobia are formed by the association of individuals; this distinction may be expressed by the terms "Monocyttaria" and "Polycyttaria."

The unicellular nature of the Radiolaria was first established by Richard Hertwig in 1879 (L. N. 33),^[1] and brought into conformity with our present histiological knowledge and the new reform of the cell-theory. Huxley, however, who was in 1851 the first to examine living Radiolaria accurately, declared Thalassicolla nucleata to be a unicellular Protozoon, and the individual central capsules of Sphærozoum punctatum to be cells, but, owing to the then condition of the cell-theory, he was unable to give a conclusive demonstration of this view. Later, when Johannes Müller in 1858 and myself in 1862 recognised the peculiar "yellow cells" which occur in large numbers in many Radiolaria as true nucleated cells, it appeared impossible any longer to maintain the unicellular nature of the Radiolaria; also the great complication which I showed to exist in the structure of Thalassicolla appeared to contradict it. Only after Cienkowski (1871) and Brandt (1881) had shown that the "yellow cells" do not belong to the Radiolarian organism, but are symbiotic unicellular algæ, was it possible to revive and demonstrate anew the unicellular nature of the Radiolaria.

12. Morphological Individuality.—From the morphological standpoint the individuality of the unicellular elementary organism is obvious in the ordinary solitary Radiolaria (Monobia), and is to be so regarded that the whole body with all its constituent parts, and not merely the central capsule, is to be regarded as a cell. Naturally the xanthellæ or yellow cells (§§ 76, 90), which as independent algæ live in symbiosis with many Radiolaria, must be excluded. The unicellular organisation of the Radiolaria is further to be distinguished from that of the other Protista, inasmuch as an internal membrane (capsule-membrane) separates the central (medullary) from the peripheral (cortical) portion. In the cœnobia of the social Radiolaria (or Polycyttaria), the morphological individuality persists only as regards the medullary portions of the aggregated cells (the individual central capsules), while the cortical portions fuse completely to form a common extracapsulum. Hence in these Spumellaria polyzoa two different stages of morphological individuality must be distinguished, the Cell as a Morphon of the first stage, and the Cœnobium as a Morphon of the second stage.

13. Physiological Individuality.—From the physiological standpoint also the individuality of the unicellular organism is immediately obvious in the case of the ordinary solitary Radiolaria (Monobia); as in other Protista it fulfils all the functions of life by itself alone. This physiological individuality of the monobious Radiolarian cell is furthermore not influenced by the xanthellæ, which live as independent algæ in symbiosis with many Radiolaria; even though these often by the production of starch assist in the {vii}nourishment of the Radiolaria, yet they are by no means indispensable to them. On the other hand, the physiological individuality offers more complicated relations in the social Radiolaria (Polycyttaria) which live united in colonies or cœnobia. Here the actual Bion (or the fully developed physiological individual) is not represented by the individual cells, but by the whole multicellular cœnobium, which in each species has a definite form and size. In these cœnobia, which are usually spherical or cylindrical jelly-like masses, several millimeters in diameter, numerous cells are so intimately united that only their medullary portions (the central capsule with the endoplasm) remain independent; the cortical portions (calymma and exoplasm) on the contrary uniting into a common extracapsulum. This discharges, as a whole, the functions of locomotion, sensation, and inception of nutriment, while the separate central capsules act in the main only as reproductive organs (forming spores) and partly also as the central organs of metastasis (digestion). Each cœnobium may also be regarded as a polycyttarium, i.e., a "multicellular Radiolarian," whose numerous central capsules represent so many sporangia or spore-capsules.

On this head compare the section in my monograph of 1862 (L. N. 16), entitled Die Organisation der Radiolarien-Colonien; Polyzoen oder Polycyttarien? (pp. 116 to 126); and also R. Hertwig, Zur Histologie der Radiolarien, 1876 (L. N. 26, p. 23).

14. Monocyttaria and Polycyttaria.—In the majority of the Radiolaria each unicellular organism passes its individual life in an isolated condition (as a Monocyttarium). Only in a part of the Spumellaria numerous unicellular individuals are united into societies which are regarded as cœnobia or colonies (Polycyttaria). This is the case in three different families belonging to the Peripylea, in the Collozoida (without a skeleton, Pl. 3), the Sphærozoida (with a Beloid skeleton, Pl. 4), and the Collosphærida (with a Sphæroid skeleton, Pls. 5-8). All three families of Polycyttaria (or social Radiolaria), agree in their mode of forming colonies, since the central capsules of the social individuals remain separate and lie in a common jelly-like mass, which is formed by the fusion of their extracapsulum. The chief part of the voluminous colonies, which attain a diameter of several millimetres (sometimes more than 1 cm.), and are generally spherical, ellipsoidal or cylindrical, consists therefore of the jelly-like calymma, and this is penetrated by a sarcoplegma, to whose meshes all the individual organisms contribute by means of the pseudopodia, which radiate from their sarcomatrix. A further peculiarity in which the social Spumellaria differ from the solitary consists in the fact that the former are precocious and the latter serotinous in the division of the nucleus (§ 64). Whilst in the solitary or monozootic Spumellaria the middle of the central capsule is occupied by the simple nucleus, and this divides only at a late period (immediately before the formation of spores) into the numerous spore nuclei, in the colonial or polyzootic Spumellaria this division takes place very early, and the middle of each central capsule is usually occupied by an oil-globule.

The colonial Radiolaria were described as early as the year 1834 by Meyen, the first investigator of the class, under the name Sphærozoum, and, as Palmellaria, compared with the gelatinous colonies of the Nostochineæ. The first accurate observations upon their structure were, however, made in 1851 by Huxley, who described examples of all three families under the name Thalassicolla punctata. More extended, however, were the investigations of Johannes Müller, who in his fundamental work (1858) divided the whole class Radiolaria into Solitaria and Polyzoa. The Radiolaria solitaria he divided into Thalassicolla, Polycystina and Acanthometra, the Radiolaria polyzoa into Sphærozoa (without a shell) and Collosphæra (with a shell). The most accurate delineation of the Polycyttaria was given by Hertwig in his beautiful memoir, Zur Histologie der Radiolarien (1876). Quite recently, however (1886), since the completion of my manuscript upon the Challenger Radiolaria, a very complete Monograph of the Polycyttaria has appeared by Karl Brandt, Die colonie-bildenden Radiolarien (Sphærozoen) des Golfes von Neapel und der angrenzenden Meeres-Abschnitte (276 pp., 8 pls., Berlin). It contains in particular most valuable contributions to the physiology and histology.

15. The Central Capsule and Extracapsulum.—The special peculiarity of the unicellular Radiolarian organism, by which it is clearly distinguished from all other Rhizopoda (and indeed from most other Protista), is its differentiation into two separate chief constituents, the central capsule and extracapsulum, and the formation of a special membrane which separates them. This, the capsule-membrane, is not to be compared with an ordinary cell-membrane, as an external layer, but rather to be regarded as an internal differentiated product. The extracapsulum or external (cortical) portion of the body is in most Radiolaria more voluminous than the central capsule or inner (medullary) portion. The exoplasm of the former (the cortical or extracapsular protoplasm) is emphatically different from the endoplasm of the latter (the medullary or intracapsular protoplasm). Besides the most important vital processes are distributed by division of labour so completely between them that they appear most distinctly co-ordinated. The central capsule is on the one hand the general central organ of the "cell-soul" for the discharge of its sensory and motor functions (comparable to a ganglion-cell), on the other hand the special organ of reproduction (sporangium). The extracapsulum, also, is not less significant, since on the one hand its calymma acts as a protecting envelope to the central capsule, as a support to the pseudopodia, and a foundation for the skeleton or a matrix for the development of the shell, and on the other hand its pseudopodia are of the utmost importance as peripheral organs of movement and sensation as well as of nutrition and respiration. The central capsule and the extracapsulum are therefore to be regarded both morphologically and physiologically as the two characteristic co-ordinated principal parts of the unicellular Radiolarian organism.

In most of the more modern delineations of the Radiolaria the central capsule is regarded as the "cell proper" and its membrane as the "cell-wall." The following facts are opposed to the correctness of this interpretation:—1. In most Radiolaria the exoplasm is clearly different from {ix}the endoplasm, and the former is more voluminous than the latter. 2. In all Radiolaria the division of labour is so carried out between the central capsule and the extracapsulum, that the physiological significance and independence of both principal parts of the cell is almost equally great. 3. It is only in the Acantharia that the formation of the skeleton takes place within the central capsule; in all the other three legions it is quite independent of it.

16. The Malacoma and Skeleton.—Whilst the division of the unicellular organism into central capsule and extracapsulum is undoubtedly the most important character of the Radiolarian organism, the development of a skeleton of peculiar and most varied form is of very striking significance. This skeleton is always a secondary product of the cell, but is always anatomically so independent, and so clearly marked off from the soft parts or malacoma, that it seems advisable to regard both separately in a general morphological survey. The skeleton stands in a different relation to each of the two principal constituents of the malacoma. Only in the Acantharia is it centrogenous and developed from the central capsule outwards. In the other three legions the skeleton never arises in the centre of the capsule; in the Nassellaria and Phæodaria it is always extracapsular; in the Spumellaria it is also outside the central capsule originally, but afterwards becomes often surrounded by it, and finally lies in most cases partly within and partly without the central capsule. The chemical basis of the skeleton in the Acantharia is the curious acanthin (an organic substance allied to chitin), in the Phæodaria a silicate of carbon, and in the Nassellaria and Spumellaria silica.

17. Ground-Forms of the Radiolaria (Promorphology).—The ground-forms of the Radiolaria exhibit a greater variety than those of any other class in the organic world, greater indeed than is to be found in all the remaining groups together. For every conceivable ground-form which can be defined in the system of promorphology is actually present in the Radiolaria; their skeleton exhibits, as it were, in material existence, certain geometrical ground-forms which are found in no other organisms. The cause of this unexampled richness in different forms lies chiefly in the static relations of the Radiolaria, which swim freely in the sea, partly also in the peculiar plasticity of their protoplasm and the material of their skeletons.

Regarding the general system of ground-forms compare my Generelle Morphologie (1866, Bd. i. pp. 375-552; Bd. iv., Allgemeine Grundformenlehre). The ground-forms there proposed and systematically defined have, however, found but little acceptance (chiefly, no doubt, owing to the difficult and complicated nomenclature); but having now, twenty years after their publication, anew carefully revised and critically studied them, I can find no sufficient reason for abandoning the principles there adopted. On the contrary the study of the Challenger Radiolaria during the last ten years, with its incomparable wealth of forms, has only confirmed the accuracy of my system of ground-forms. The customary treatment of these in zoological and botanical handbooks (such as those of Claus and Sachs) is quite insufficient.

18. The Principal Groups of Geometrical Ground-Forms.—The great variety of the geometrical ground-forms which are actually realised in the variously shaped bodies of the Radiolaria, renders it desirable to classify these in as small a number as possible of principal groups and a larger number of subdivisions. As extensive principal groups four at least must be distinguished; the Centrostigma or Sphærotypic, the Centraxonia or Grammotypic, the Centroplana or Zygotypic, and the Acentrica or Atypic. The natural centre of the body, about which all its parts are regularly arranged, is in the first group a point (stigma), in the second a straight line (principal axis), in the third a plane (sagittal plane), in the fourth a centre is of course wanting.

19. The Centrostigma or Sphærotypic Ground-Forms.—The first group of geometrical ground-forms, here distinguished as sphærotypic or the centrostigma, is undoubtedly the most important among the Radiolaria, inasmuch as if these be considered monophyletic, it must be the original one from which all the other ground-forms have been derived. The common character of all these sphærotypic ground-forms is that their natural centre is a point (stigma); thus there is no single principal axis (or protaxon) such as is characteristic of the two following groups. The sphærotypic ground-forms are subdivided into two important smaller groups, the spheres (Homaxonia) and the endospherical polyhedra (Polyaxonia). The spherical ground-forms, fully developed in the central capsule and calymma of Actissa and the Sphæroidea as well as in many Acantharia, present no different axes; all possible axes passing through the centre of the body are equal (Homaxonia). In the endospherical polyhedra, on the contrary, numerous axes (three at least) may be distinguished, which are precisely equal to each other and different from all the remaining axes (Polyaxonia). If the extremities of these axes, or the poles, which are all equidistant from the common centre, be united by straight lines, a polyhedral figure is produced whose angles all lie in the surface of the sphere. According as the poles of the axes are at equal, subequal, or at different distances from each other, we may divide the endospherical polyhedra into regular, subregular and irregular. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 404-416.)

20. The Centraxonia or Grammotypic Ground-Forms.—The second principal group of organic ground-forms, here called grammotypic or centraxonia, is characterised by the fact that a straight line (gramma) or a single principal axis (protaxon) forms the natural centre of the body. This important and extensive group is divided into two subgroups, those with one axis (Monaxonia) and those with crossed axes (Stauraxonia); in the latter different secondary transverse or cross-axes may be distinguished, but not in the former. In the Monaxonia, therefore, every transverse section of the body perpendicular to the principal axis is a circle, in the Stauraxonia, on the contrary, a polygon. The Monaxonia are further subdivided into two groups, in one of which the two poles of the principal axis {xi}are equal and similar (Isopolar), in the other of which they are different (Allopolar); in the former the two halves of the body, which are separated by the equatorial plane (or the largest transverse plane, perpendicular to the principal axis), are equal, in the latter unequal. Among the isopolar uniaxial ground-forms (Monaxonia isopola) may be mentioned the ellipsoidal, spheroidal, lenticular, &c.; to the allopolar uniaxial forms (Monaxonia allopola) belong the conical, hemispherical, ovoid, &c. In the same way the pyramidal ground-forms with crossed axes are divisible into two groups, according as the two poles of the principal axis are equal or not. The ground-form of the former is the double pyramid, that of the latter the single pyramid. Both the double and the single pyramids may again be subdivided, each into two important lesser groups, the regular and the amphithect. In the first division the equatorial plane of the double and the basal plane of the single pyramid is a regular polygon (square, &c.), whilst in the other division it is an elongated or amphithect polygon (rhombus, &c.); the crossed axes are equal in the former, unequal in the latter. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 416-494.)

21. The Centroplana or Zygotypic Ground-Forms.—The third principal group of ground-forms includes those which are bilaterally symmetrical in the ordinary sense, or zeugitic or zygotypic; the natural centre of their body is a plane. These forms are the only ones in which the distinction between right and left is possible, since their body is divided by the median plane (planum sagittale) into two symmetrical halves (right and left). In all these zeugites the position of every part is determined by three axes perpendicular to each other, and of these three dimensive axes two are allopolar, one is isopolar. The two unlike poles of the principal (or longitudinal) axis are the oral and aboral, the two unlike poles of the sagittal (or vertical) axis are the dorsal and ventral; the two similar poles of the frontal (or transverse) axis, however, are the right and left. This important group of zeugitic or bilateral forms may also be divided into two clearly distinct lesser groups, the Amphipleura and the Zygopleura. In the Amphipleura (or bilaterally radial ground-forms) the "radial two-sided" body is produced by modification of a regular pyramid (as Spatangus from Echinus), and hence is composed of several (not less than three) antimeres. In the Zygopleura (or bilaterally symmetrical ground-forms) on the other hand, the bodies consist of two antimeres (as in all the higher animals, Vertebrata, Arthropoda, &c.). (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 495-527.)

22. The Acentrica or Atypic Ground-Forms.—Among the acentrica or anaxonia are included all those ground-forms which are absolutely irregular, and in which neither a definite centre nor constant axes can be distinguished (e.g., most Sponges). These quite irregular ground-forms are very rare among the Radiolaria, but nevertheless there may be referred to them the amœboid central capsule of some Colloidea (Collodastrum, p. 27, Pl. 3, figs. 4, 5) among the Spumellaria, the irregular shells of many Collosphærida {xii}(Pl. 8, fig. 2), and the absolutely irregular shells of the Phorticida and Soreumida among the Larcoidea. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 400.)

23. The Subsidiary Groups of Geometrical Ground-Forms.—The four natural principal groups of ground-forms, which have just been defined according to the nature of the centre of their bodies, may be divided again into numerous subsidiary groups, defined by the relations of the constant axes and the two poles of each axis, as well as by the number of the axes and the differentiation of the secondary with respect to the principal axis. The most important of these subsidiary groups into which the principal ones are immediately divided are the following:—(1) The Centrostigma (or sphærotypic) are divided into spheres (Homaxonia) and endospherical polyhedra (Polyaxonia). (2) The Centraxonia (or grammotypic) into uniaxial (Monaxonia) and those with crossed axes (Stauraxonia); among the former of these may be distinguished the isopolar (phacotypic) and the allopolar (conotypic); among the latter the double and single pyramids. (3) The Centroplana (or bilaterals) are divided into amphipleura (or bilaterally radial) and zygopleura (or bilaterally symmetrical). (4) The Acentrica (or Anaxonia) or absolutely irregular ground-forms, present no special subdivisions.

For a complete system of the geometrical ground-forms and their relation to promorphological classification, see Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 555-558.

24. The Spherical or Homaxon Ground-Form.—The spherical is the only absolutely regular ground-form, since only in it are all axes which pass through the centre equal; it is very often realised among the Radiolaria, especially in the Spumellaria and Acantharia, where it furnishes the common original ground-form, but it is often to be seen in the shells of many Phæodaria (in most Phæosphæria); on the other hand, it is never found among the Nassellaria. Geometrical spheres, in the strict sense of the term, are only to be found among the Spumellaria and Acantharia, namely, in the central capsule of many Collodaria (Pls. 1, 2) and all Sphæroidea (Pls. 11-30) as well as many Acanthometra and Acanthophracta (Pls. 128-138). Nevertheless, speaking generally, one includes those central capsules and skeletons which have been distinguished here as endospherical polyhedra. (On these ground-forms see Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 404-406.)

25. The Endospherical Polyhedral Ground-Form.—The endospherical polyhedron or polyaxon ground-form naturally follows the spherical or homaxon. Under it are included all polyhedra whose angles fall in the surface of a sphere; this ground-form is especially common among the Spumellaria, especially in the shells of Sphæroidea, but is also found among the Acantharia (especially in the Astrolophida and Sphærophracta), as well as among the Phæosphæria (in most genera of the Orosphærida, Sagosphærida, and Aulosphærida). Strictly speaking, all those lattice-shells which have {xiii}been incorrectly called "spherical" belong to this category, for they are none of them true spheres in the geometrical sense (like the central capsules of the Sphæroidea), but rather endospherical polyhedra, whose angles are indicated by the nodal points of the lattice shell, or the radial spines which spring from them. These endospherical polyhedra may be divided into three groups, the regular, subregular, and irregular. Of regular polyhedra, properly so-called, it may be shown geometrically that only five can exist, namely, the regular tetrahedron, cube, octahedron, dodecahedron, and icosahedron. All these are actually manifested among the Radiolaria, although but seldom. Much more common are the subregular endospherical polyhedra, e.g., spherical lattice-shells with regular hexagonal meshes of equal size; they are never exactly equal nor perfectly regular, but the divergences are so insignificant that they escape superficial observation (Pl. 20, figs. 3, 4; Pl. 26, figs. 1-3). On the contrary in the irregular endospherical polyhedra the meshes of the lattice-sphere are more or less different in size and often in form also (Pl. 28, figs. 4, 8; Pl. 30, figs. 4, 6). The five truly regular polyhedra require separate notice on account of their importance. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 406.)

26. The Regular Icosahedral Ground-Form.—The ground-form whose geometrical type is the regular icosahedron (bounded by twenty equilateral triangles) is rarely exemplified, but it occurs among the Phæodaria in the Circoporid genus Circogonia (Pl. 117, fig. 1), and also in certain Aulosphærida, but, apparently, only as an accidental variation (e.g., Aulosphæra icosahedra). Furthermore, this ground-form may also be assumed to occur in those Sphæroidea whose spherical lattice-shells bear twelve equidistant radial spines (e.g., many species of Acanthosphæra, Heliosphæra, and other Astrosphærida); the basal points of these spines indicate the twelve angles of the regular icosahedron. (See on this head Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 411.)

27. The Regular Dodecahedral Ground-Form.—The ground-form whose geometrical type is the regular dodecahedron (or pentagonal dodecahedron), bounded by twelve equilateral and equiangular pentagons, is very rarely found perfectly developed, as in Circorrhegma dodecahedra (Pl. 117, fig. 2). This form is by no means so common among the Radiolaria as in the pollen grains of plants (e.g., Buchholzia maritima, Fumaria spicata, Polygonum amphibium, &c.). It can, however, be regarded as present in all those Sphæroidea whose spherical lattice-shells bear twenty equal and equidistant radial spines (e.g., many species of Acanthosphæra, Heliosphæra, and other Astrosphærida); the basal points of these spines mark out the twenty angles of the regular pentagonal dodecahedron. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 412.)

28. The Regular Octahedral Ground-Form.—The ground-form whose geometrical type is the regular octahedron (bounded by eight equilateral triangles), commonly appears among the Spumellaria in the family Cubosphærida (p. 169, Pls. 21-25). In {xiv}these Sphæroidea the typical ground-form is usually indicated by six equal radial spines, which are opposed to each other in pairs, and lie in three similar axes perpendicular to each other; these are the three axes of the tesseral crystallographic system; one of them is vertical, whilst the other two cross each other at right angles in its centre. Occasionally, too, the spherical form of the lattice-shell passes over into that of the regular octahedron (Pl. 22, figs. 8, 10). The same form recurs in Circoporus (Pl. 117, fig. 6) among the Phæodaria. In the vegetable kingdom it is exhibited by the antheridia of Chara. It is not found in the Nassellaria and Acantharia. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 412.)

29. The Regular Cubic Ground-Form.—The ground-form whose geometrical type is that of a die or cube, is actually presented in a very striking manner by various Radiolaria. Among the Spumellaria it occurs in certain Sphæroidea, e.g., in the Astrosphærid genera Centrocubus and Octodendron (Pl. 18, figs. 1-3); in these the central medullary shell is a complete cube, bounded by six equal squares, from the eight angles of which eight equal radial spines project. This form can also be regarded as present in those Sphæroidea whose spherical lattice-shell bears eight equal and equidistant radial spines (many Astrosphærida). Besides these the cubic ground-form is to be seen in certain Nassellaria of the family Tympanida, especially in Lithocubus (Pl. 82, fig. 12; Pl. 94, fig. 13), in many species of Acrocubus, Microcubus, &c.; the twelve bars of its lattice-skeleton correspond often exactly to the edges of the cube. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 413.)

30. The Regular Tetrahedral Ground-Form.—The ground-form whose geometrical type is the regular tetrahedron, bounded by four equilateral triangles, occurs less frequently in the Radiolaria than the other four regular polyhedra. Among the Spumellaria it is found in the Beloidea, and especially in those members of the Thalassosphærida and Sphærozoida whose spicules bear four equal branches, diverging at equal angles from a common centre. Precisely the same structure is seen also among the Nassellaria in some Plectoidea, as in Tetraplagia among the Plagonida, and Tetraplecta among the Plectanida. The skeleton of both these genera consists of four equal rods, which radiate at equal angles from a common centre, just as do the axes of the regular tetrahedron. The tetrahedral form of these Plectoidea is the more important and interesting since on the one hand it is related to the similar spicular form of the Beloidea, and on the other perhaps furnishes the starting point from which Cortina among the Nassellaria may be derived (Plagoniscus, Plectaniscus). (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 415.)

31. The Isopolar-Monaxon or Phacotypic Ground-Form.—The isopolar uniaxial or phacotypic ground-form is characterised by the possession of a vertical main axis with {xv}equal poles, whilst no transverse axes are differentiated. All horizontal planes which cut the axis at right angles are circles, and increase in size from the poles towards the equator. The most important ground-forms of this group are the phacoid (the lens or oblate spheroid) and the ellipsoid (or prolate spheroid). Phacoids (or geometrical lenses with blunt margins) are very often presented by the central capsules of the Discoidea and of many Acantharia (Quadrilonchida and Hexalaspida), but the lattice-shells of many Spumellaria and Acantharia exhibit the same form, as also do a few Phæodaria (e.g., Aulophacus). True geometrical ellipsoids are seen in the central capsules of many Prunoidea among the Spumellaria, and of many Amphilonchida and Belonaspida among the Acantharia. Furthermore, the lattice shells of many species of these groups retain the same essential form, e.g., many Ellipsida, Druppulida, and Spongurida (Pls. 13-17, and 39), as well as most Belonaspida. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 422.)

32. Allopolar-Monaxon or Conotypic Ground-Form.—The allopolar uniaxial or conotypic ground-form is characterised by the possession of a vertical main axis whose two poles are unlike, while no transverse axes are differentiated. All horizontal planes cutting the main axis at right angles are circles, and decrease more rapidly from the largest plane towards the basal than towards the apical pole. The most important ground-forms of this group are the ovoid, the cone, and the hemisphere. They often occur (and in geometrical perfection) in the egg-shaped central capsule and podoconus of the Nassellaria, as well as in the shells of several groups of this legion, particularly in the Cyrtocalpida or Monocyrtida eradiata (Pl. 51, figs. 10-13), and in many Stichocyrtida eradiata; furthermore, they are also seen among the Phæodaria, e.g., certain Challengerida (Pl. 99, figs. 19-22). (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 426.)

33. The Regular Dipyramidal or Quadrilonchial Ground-Form.—The ground-forms whose geometrical type is the regular double pyramid are characterised by a vertical main axis which possesses equal poles, and which is crossed at its centre by several equal transverse axes. The horizontal equatorial plane is therefore a regular polygon, and divides the body into two equal regular pyramids. The simplest and commonest form of this group is the quadratic octahedron, the ground-form of the quadratic crystallographic system; its equatorial plane is a square. This regular dipyramidal ground-form occurs among the Spumellaria in the shells of the Staurosphærida as well as of many Discoidea, in which several equidistant radial spines or arms lie in the quadratic equatorial plane of the body, and project from the margin of the lenticular disc (e.g., Sethostaurus, Pl. 31; Histiastrum, Pl. 46, &c.). It is, however, among the Acantharia that the most important part is played by this ground-form (and especially by the quadratic octahedron); it forms the basis of all those Acanthometra and Acanthophracta in which twenty radial spines are disposed according to the Müllerian Law, and in which {xvi}the four equatorial spines are of equal dimensions (Icosacantha). (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 436-446.)

34. The Amphithect Dipyramidal or Lentelliptical Ground-Forms.—The ground-forms whose geometrical type is the lenticular or "triaxial" ellipsoid, may also be designated amphithect double pyramids; they are characterised by the possession of a vertical main axis which has similar poles, and is crossed at its middle by two transverse axes, unequal but isopolar. The horizontal equatorial plane of the body is therefore an amphithect or elongated polygon (a rhombus in the simplest case possible), and divides the whole body into two equal amphithect pyramids. The simplest and commonest form of this group is the rhombic octahedron, which is also the ground-form of the rhombic crystallographic system. It plays an important part in those Acantharia in which twenty radial spines are disposed according to the Müllerian Law, but in which the two pairs of equatorial spines are unequal (different geotomical and hydrotomical axes, see p. 719); to this category belong the Amphilonchida (Pl. 132), Belonaspida (Pl. 136), Hexalaspida (Pl. 139), and Diploconida (Pl. 140). A form essentially identical obtains also among the Spumellaria in the majority of the Larcoidea, both in their triaxial lattice-shells, and in their lentelliptical central capsules, which present geometrically accurate triaxial ellipsoids, with three unequal isopolar axes at right angles to each other. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. p. 446-452.)

35. The Regular Pyramidal Ground-Forms.—The ground-forms whose geometrical type is the regular pyramid, and which are the most conspicuous in the Medusæ, Polyps, Corals, and regular Echinoderms (the Radiata of earlier authors), are almost confined among the Radiolaria to the legion Nassellaria; they occur, however, in the great majority of these, and especially in those families which may be classed together as "Cyrtoidea triradiata et multiradiata." Strictly speaking, however, almost all these Nassellaria, at all events in their origin, are bilateral or dipleuric, since the primary sagittal ring with its characteristic apophyses marks out the sagittal median plane, and further, since the three feet of the basal tripod are usually divided into an unpaired dorsal (pes caudalis) and two paired ventral or lateral (pedes pectorales, dexter et sinister). On the other hand, it is noteworthy, firstly, that among the primitive Plectoidea there are perfectly regular radial forms, without any indication of an original bilateral symmetry, and secondly, that similar forms are also very common among the Cyrtoidea, probably as secondary radial forms, developed from primitive bilateral ones. Similar cases also occur in certain Phæodaria (e.g., the Medusettida and Tuscarorida, Pls. 100, 120), but they are entirely wanting among the Acantharia and Spumellaria. The multiradial Nassellaria have arisen from the triradial by the interpolation of three, six, nine, or more interradial and adradial secondary apophyses between the three primary perradial ones. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 459-874.)

36. The Amphithect Pyramidal Ground-Forms.—The ground-forms whose geometrical type is the amphithect pyramid, are distinguished from the regular pyramidal forms, just discussed, chiefly by the form of the basal plane, which is not a regular, but an amphithect or elongated polygon (in the simplest case a rhombus). Hence in this case the allopolar main axis of the body is crossed by two transverse axes which are isopolar and at right angles, but are unequal; they cannot, however be distinguished as sagittal and frontal axes as is the case in the zeugites. In the animal as well as in the vegetable kingdom, an important part is played by this ground-form, e.g., in the Ctenophora, where it is the rhombic pyramid. Among the Radiolaria it is not common, though it is clearly expressed among the Nassellaria in a number of Stephoidea (Stephanida and Tympanida), as well as in many Spyroidea (e.g., the bipedal Zygospirida). It is very accurately developed among the Phæodaria in the bivalved Phæoconchia (Pls. 121-128), where the two valves of the shell (dorsal and ventral) are generally exactly alike, their median keels corresponding to the poles of the sagittal axis. In the slit between the two valves lie the two secondary openings (right and left) of the tripylean central capsule, corresponding to the two poles of the frontal axis, and the main axis stands perpendicularly to both these, its oral pole being indicated by the astropyle, or principal aperture. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 479-494.)

37. The Amphipleural Ground-Forms.—By the term amphipleural ground-forms are to be understood those usually defined as "bilaterally radial"; their geometrical type is a half amphithect pyramid. The best known examples of this form in the animal kingdom are the bilateral five-rayed Echinoderms (Spatangus, Clypeaster), in the vegetable kingdom the symmetrical five-rayed flowers (Viola, Trifolium). The three dimensive axes have the same relation as in the zygopleura, to be next discussed, and which also resemble them in being divisible only by one plane (the sagittal median plane) into two equal halves. They differ, however, the amphipleural body not being made up of two antimeres, but of at least three pairs of antimeres (or three parameres), being therefore primitively radial. Hence each of the symmetrical halves of the body contains more than one antimere. Among the Radiolaria this form does not occur in the Spumellaria, Acantharia, or Phæodaria; it is very common, however, among the Nassellaria; many Cyrtoidea multiradiata and Spyroidea multiradiata show this bilaterally radial ground-form, inasmuch as the body consists of two symmetrical halves, and is also composed of numerous (usually three, six, nine, or more) radial parameres. In the multiradiate Dicyrtida and Tricyrtida the cephalis (the first joint) is usually bilateral, whilst the thorax (the second joint) is multiradial. (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 495-506.)

38. The Zygopleural Ground-Forms.—As zygopleural or dipleural ground-forms, as opposed to the amphipleural, are classed those zeugites or centroplana which are known {xviii}as "bilaterally symmetrical" in the strictest sense of the term. This is the most important ground-form in the animal kingdom, inasmuch as it obtains almost exclusively among the higher animals (Vertebrata, Articulata, Mollusca, Vermes). The body consists of only two antimeres, which correspond to the two symmetrical halves of the body. Of the three dimensive axes two are allopolar, one isopolar; the oral pole of the longitudinal main axis is different from the aboral; the dorsal pole of the sagittal axis is different from the ventral; but the right pole of the frontal axis is equal to the left. The right antimere is usually precisely similar to the left (Eudipleura), more rarely it is slightly dissimilar or asymmetrical (Dysdipleura). Among the Radiolaria this ground-form is entirely wanting in the Porulosa or Holotrypasta (Spumellaria and Acantharia), but on the contrary it is very common in the Osculosa or Merotrypasta (Nassellaria and Phæodaria). In the Nassellaria it is of special importance, for the typical Cortina (the combination of the primary sagittal ring with the basal tripod) exhibits the zygopleural ground-form clearly sketched out; indeed it is usually clearly seen even in the sagittal ring itself, for its ventral segment is more strongly curved than the dorsal; its basal (or oral) pole is always different from the apical (or aboral). Of the three feet of the basal tripod the unpaired (caudal) one is directed dorsally and backwards, the two paired (pectoral) ones ventrally and forwards. The majority of the Nassellaria may be regarded as modifications of this original ground-form. Its relation to the primitively triradiate tripod presents a still unsolved problem, and the numerous relations of the zygopleural to the multiradiate ground-forms in the Nassellaria are exceedingly complicated. The zygopleural ground-form is less widely distributed among the Phæodaria, though it is very characteristically developed in the rich and varied group of Challengerida (Pl. 99). (See Gener. Morphol., Bd. i. pp. 507-527.)

40. Mechanical Causes of the Geometrical Ground-Forms.—The great variety of ground-forms exhibited by the Radiolaria is of special interest, since in most instances their causes admit of recognition, and since they are so intimately related to each other that even in the remaining cases the assumption that they have arisen by purely mechanical causæ efficientes seems justified. In this respect the first rank is taken by statical conditions, especially the indifferent or stable equilibrium of the whole organism, which floats freely in the water. With regard to these fundamental statical relations, three principal groups of ground-forms may be distinguished, pantostatic, polystatic, and monostatic.

41. Pantostatic Ground-Forms.—By pantostatic or indifferently stable ground-forms are meant those in which the centre of gravity coincides with the centre of the body, so that they are in equilibrium in any given position. Strictly speaking, the only form which possesses perfectly indifferent equilibrium is the sphere, that being the only truly homaxon and perfectly regular form. Nevertheless, in a somewhat wider sense many Polyaxonia, especially the endospherical polyhedra with very numerous sides, may be {xx}included in this category. Such indifferently stable bodies are found among the Spumellaria in many Collodaria and Sphæroidea, as well as in the Astrolophida among the Acantharia. On the contrary they are entirely wanting among the Nassellaria and Phæodaria, since their central capsule constantly presents a main axis with a differentiated basal pole, and determines the position of stable equilibrium.

42. Polystatic Ground-Forms.—Those ground forms are defined as polystatic or multistable in which the body is in equilibrium in several different positions (though not in an infinite number). The number of these positions is usually twice as many as that of the constant equal isopolar axes exhibited by the form. Hence the regular polyhedra have as many positions of equilibrium as they have angles or sides, the icosahedron twenty, dodecahedron twelve, octahedron eight, cube six, tetrahedron four. The isopolar monaxon ground-forms (lens, ellipsoid, cylinder) and the diplopyramidal ground forms (quadrilonchial and lentelliptical) have two positions of stable equilibrium, since the two poles of the vertical axis are equal and similar and the body is divided into equal halves by the equatorial plane. This is the case in many Spumellaria (especially Discoidea, Prunoidea, and Larcoidea), as well as in the great majority of Acantharia. Perhaps the same holds good also in certain Nassellaria (e.g., isopolar Tympanida) and Phæodaria (e.g., isopolar Phæosphæria), though here unistable equilibrium appears to be necessitated by the constant main axis of the central capsule and the differentiated basal pole of the main axis.

43. Monostatic Ground-Forms.—Those ground-forms are classed as monostatic or unistable in which the body is in equilibrium only in one position, since the centre of gravity of the body lies in a constant vertical axis below its centre. This fixed position is only rarely and exceptionally found among the Spumellaria (e.g., in Xiphostylus, Sphærostylus, Lithomespilus, Lithapium) and among the Acantharia (e.g., in Zygostaurus and Amphibelone). On the contrary it is quite usual among the Nassellaria and Phæodaria (with but few exceptions); for here a vertical main axis, with a differentiated basal pole, is determined even by the formation of the central capsule, and usually also by the corresponding structure of the skeleton. Among the Nassellaria this basal pole, with the porochora of the central capsule, appears always to be the lower; as also in most Phæogromia among the Phæodaria. In the peculiar bivalved Phæoconchia, on the other hand, the basal pole with the cannopyle is directed upwards; as also in the Challengerida and Tuscarorida. The Phæosphæria and Phæocystina are probably to a large extent polystatic. In general unistable equilibrium may be assumed in the following categories of ground-forms:—(1) Allopolar monaxon (conical and ovoid); (2) pyramidal (regular and amphithect); (3) Centroplana (amphipleura and zygopleura); (4) Anaxonia.

44. Principal Axes.—From the foregoing consideration of the statical conditions and their direct causal connection with the geometrical ground-forms of the Radiolaria, the great mechanical significance of the differentiation of definite axes in these unicellular free-swimming organisms will be manifest. The most important of these is the primary main axis (axis principalis, or protaxon), which in all cases has a vertical direction. It is wanting in the Centrostigma (spheres and endospherical polyhedra), and in the Anaxonia (acentra). It is isopolar in the phacotypic forms (Monaxonia isopola), and in the double pyramids (Stauraxonia isopola). It is allopolar in all monastatic ground-forms, in the conotypic forms (Monaxonia allopola), pyramids (Stauraxonia allopola), and the Centroplana (or bilateral forms).

45. Secondary or Transverse Axes.—In contrast to the vertical main axis all the other constant axes differentiated in the body may be called "secondary axes," or "transverse axes," since they cross the former at definite points. All ground-forms whose vertical axis is crossed by a fixed number of such axes at definite angles may be called "Stauraxonia." They are divided into two groups, double pyramids and single pyramids; in the former the two poles of the main axis (or the two halves of the body separated by the equatorial plane) are similar (Stauraxonia homopola), in the latter dissimilar (Stauraxonia heteropola). If all the secondary axes be equal, the stauraxon ground-form is regularly radial. If some of them be unequal they are arranged in certain relations towards two primary transverse axes, perpendicular to each other, to which all the other secondary axes are subsidiary; the ground-forms are then either amphithect or bilateral. The two primary transverse axes, which may also be designated "ideal transverse axes" (euthyni), divide the vertical main axis in its centre; one of them is the sagittal, the other the frontal. These three dimensive axes give the factors which accurately determine the ground-form and the dimensions in most Radiolaria; the vertical main axis determines the length (principal axis); one horizontal transverse axis determines the thickness (sagittal axis), and the other the breadth (frontal axis). Those ground-forms in which the transverse axes are isopolar are termed "amphithect," and those in which the one (frontal or lateral) is isopolar and the other (sagittal or dorso-ventral) is allopolar, are termed "bilateral," or better "zeugitic."

46. Primary and Secondary Ground-Forms.—The geometrical sphere must be regarded as the original ground-form of the Radiolaria; it being understood that its monophyletic derivation from a single stem-form, Actissa, is correct. The simplest forms of Actissa (Procyttarium, Pl. 1, fig. 1) are in fact geometrically perfect spheres; indeed even the individual parts which compose their unicellular bodies (nucleolus, nucleus, central capsule and calymma) are concentric spheres. But in addition the central capsules of most other Spumellaria, especially the Sphæroidea, as well as of many Acantharia {xxii}are true spheres. Furthermore the simple or concentrically composed lattice-spheres of Sphæroidea, Sphærophracta, and Phæosphæria may be regarded as spheres, although strictly speaking they are endospherical polyhedra. From the primary spherical form of the Radiolaria all other secondary forms may be derived in the following order:—1. By the development of a main axis the Monaxonia arise. 2. By the development of transverse axes the Stauraxonia arise. 3. In both groups (Monaxonia and Stauraxonia) the two poles (or upper and lower halves of the body) are at first similar (Isopola). 4. By differentiation in the two poles or halves of the body (distinction between the basal pole and the apical) the forms with different poles (Allopola) arise. 5. The transverse axes of the Stauraxonia are at first equal (regular pyramids and double pyramids). 6. By differentiation in the transverse axes (distinction between the sagittal and the frontal axis) the amphithect pyramids and double pyramids arise. 7. From the amphithect pyramids the Amphipleura arise by differentiation of both poles of the sagittal axis. 8. The zygopleural ground-form appears last, as the simplest form of the Amphipleura.

47. The Ground-Forms of the Spumellaria.—The Spumellaria, being the oldest and most primitive Radiolaria, have for the most part either indifferent or multistable equilibrium; e.g., all Colloidea and Beloidea which have a spherical central capsule, and also most Sphæroidea. Among these primitive Centrostigma true spheres and endospherical polyhedra are represented in the utmost variety, and the regular polyhedra in particular. By the development of a vertical main axis these Centrostigma have also given rise to very numerous Centraxonia, which are usually isopolar, very rarely allopolar. Sometimes they are Monaxonia (circular in transverse section), sometimes Stauraxonia (polygonal in transverse section). The vertical main axis is longer in the Prunoidea, shorter in the Discoidea than any of the other axes. The Larcoidea are distinguished by their lentelliptical or triaxial ellipsoid form; the three different but isopolar axes corresponding with those of the rhombic octahedron; but even among the Sphæroidea, Prunoidea, and Discoidea, this form is sometimes produced by the differentiation of two different transverse axes at right angles to each other. Whilst these ground-forms (Centraxonia and Centrostigma) occur in the utmost variety among the Spumellaria, the centroplanar (or true bilateral) ground-form is entirely wanting.

48. The Ground-Forms of Acantharia.—In the small family Astrolophida, which contains the most archaic forms of the legion (Actinelius, Astrolophus), the Acantharia show a direct relation to the most primitive Spumellaria (Actissa), and like these have indifferent equilibrium; their central capsule is a sphere, their calymma an endospherical polyhedron, whose angles are indicated by the distal ends of the numerous {xxiii}equal radial spines. In the great majority of Acantharia, however (all Acanthonida and Acanthophracta), twenty radial spines are present, regularly distributed, according to Müller's icosacanthan law, in five parallel circles, each containing four crossed spines (p. 717). Usually the twenty spines are equal, and the ground-form is the quadratic octahedron, or a regular double pyramid with sixteen sides. But in some groups (the Amphilonchida and Prunophracta) two opposite equatorial spines are much more strongly developed than the other eighteen, and therefore the hydrotomical axis in the equatorial plane is larger than the geotomical axis (p. 719); the isopolar stauraxonian form passes over into the allopolar, and the ground-form becomes the rhombic octahedron or the amphithect double pyramid (compare §§ 33 and 34, and p. 720). The centroplanar ground-form is entirely wanting in the Acantharia.

49. The Ground-Forms of the Nassellaria.—The Nassellaria all possess monostatic ground-forms, inasmuch as by the very structure of their monopylean central capsule a vertical main axis is necessitated, whose basal pole occupies the porochora. The same arrangement is also for the most part clearly recognisable in the corresponding structure of the skeleton, which is generally either centraxon or centroplanar. Among their manifold skeletal forms different larger groups of ground-forms may be recognised according as the vertical allopolar main axis is crossed by differentiated transverse axes or not (Stauraxonia or Monaxonia); the former are either triradial or multiradial. The triradial, with three lateral or terminal radial apophyses, constitute the greater part of the Nassellaria, and have probably been derived originally from the triradial Plectoidea (Triplagia, Triplecta); a more careful examination, however (especially with reference to the structure of the cortinar septum), reveals the fact that the ground-form is not strictly regularly pyramidal (with three equal radii), but amphipleural (with two paired ventral and one unpaired dorsal radius), and that it usually passes over into a distinctly zygopleural form. The same holds true of the multiradial Nassellaria, where for the most part three interradial or six adradial (sometimes more) apophyses are intercalated between the three primary perradial ones; sometimes here also the ground-form is a quite regular hexagonal or nonagonal pyramid, but usually it is more or less amphithect or amphipleural. Among the eradial Nassellaria, which have no radial apophyses, the ground-form is sometimes allopolar monaxon (conical, ovoid, hemispherical, &c.), sometimes amphithect pyramidal (even in the simplest Stephanida, Archicircus, &c.), or sometimes distinctly zygopleural or bilateral (many Plectellaria).

50. The Ground-Forms of the Phæodaria.—The Phæodaria agree with the Nassellaria in the possession of a primitively centraxon ground-form, and like them are monostatic, since a vertical main axis whose basal pole passes through the astropyle is present, owing to the characteristic structure of their cannopylean central capsule. In {xxiv}the great majority of Phæodaria the spheroidal central capsule also possesses a pair of parapylæ near the opposite apical pole of the main axis (Tripylea), and these determine (as the right and left secondary openings) an isopolar frontal axis. Hence, strictly speaking, in most Phæodaria the central capsule has the geometrical ground-form of the amphithect pyramid (as in the Ctenophora), with an allopolar vertical main axis, and two unequal, but isopolar, horizontal transverse axes. In many Phæodaria the skeleton also has this amphithect pyramidal ground-form, e.g., the bivalved Phæoconchia and part of the Phæogromia. On the contrary, in the rest of the Phæodaria the skeleton exhibits very various geometrical ground-forms, independent of that of the central capsule. In the Phæosphæria it forms preferably spheres or endospherical polyhedra, as also in the Castanellida and Circoporida among the Phæogromia; among the Circoporida there are also seen with remarkable distinctness the regular polyhedra (especially the dodecahedron and icosahedron). Isopolar monaxonia are found among the Aulosphærida (Aulatractus) and Orosphærida; allopolar monaxonia among the Challengerida (Lithogromia). The Medusettida and Tuscarorida show various forms of regular pyramids (allopolar Stauraxonia); and finally, the Challengerida are for the most part centroplanar or bilateral. Thus the Phæodaria present a great wealth of different geometrical ground-forms in the development of their skeleton, not in that of their central capsule.

Chapter II.—THE CENTRAL CAPSULE.

51. Components of the Central Capsule.—In all Radiolaria without exception, at some period of life or other, the central portion of the soft body is separated from the peripheral portion by an independent, anatomically recognisable membrane; this membrane with all its contents is designated the central capsule, and is the peculiar central organ of the unicellular body, which distinguishes the Radiolaria most clearly from the other Rhizopoda. In the great majority of the Radiolaria the volume of the central capsule is less than that of the surrounding peripheral soft body which we place in opposition to it as "extracapsulum." The "capsule-membrane," which separates these two constituents, arises very early in most Radiolaria, and persists throughout their whole life. In some species, however, the membrane only appears later, immediately before the formation of the spores, and hence is absent for a considerable period. Regarded as a whole, then, the capsule consists of the following parts:—(1) the capsule-membrane; (2) the enclosed endoplasm, or intracapsular protoplasm; (3) the nucleus. But in addition, many other non-essential structures may be enclosed in the central capsule, especially hyaline spheres (vacuoles), fatty spheres, pigment granules, crystals, &c.

The central capsule was first described in my Monograph in 1862 (pp. 69-82) as the most characteristic component of the Radiolarian organism, and distinguished from the whole extracapsular {xxv}soft body. The fact that it has recently been reported as absent by various authors is due to their having observed young or unripe specimens, before the formation of the spores. In some species of Polycyttaria and Acantharia the membrane persists only a very short time.

52. The Primary Form of the Central Capsule.—The form of the central capsule is originally a geometrical sphere; and if in accordance with our monophyletic hypothesis all Radiolaria are to be derived from one common stem-form (Actissa, see p. 12), then the central capsule of this common stem-form must be regarded as perfectly spherical (Procyttarium, p. 13, Pl. 1, fig. 1). Since, further, the enclosed nucleus and the surrounding calymma of this primitive archaic form must also be spheres, and since the nucleus lies in the centre of the body, and the protoplasm is evenly distributed between it and the membrane, it follows that no axes or excentrically differentiated parts are to be distinguished in this most primitive Radiolarian. Rather in the primary central capsule all parts are concentrically and evenly arranged round its centre. This primary spherical form becomes modified in most Radiolaria into various secondary ground-forms, which are correlated partly with the structure of the capsule itself, and partly also with the development of openings in its membrane. In general the ground-form of the central capsule is polyaxon in the Porulosa (Spumellaria and Acantharia); but in the Osculosa centraxon forms are more frequently observed; in the Nassellaria the ovoid (allopolar monaxon) form is predominant, and in the Phæodaria the rhomboid or amphithect pyramid. In these latter, the astropyle indicates the basal pole of the vertical main axis, whilst the two parapylæ (right and left) mark the poles of the frontal transverse axis. In the Nassellaria the centre of the porochora corresponds with the basal pole of the main axis, whilst no transverse axes are originally present.

53. The Secondary Forms of the Central Capsule.—The original purely spherical form of the central capsule persists only in the minority of the Radiolaria, namely, the greater part of the Spumellaria and Acantharia; it passes over into various other secondary forms in the majority of the class, in the whole of the Nassellaria and Phæodaria, and in a considerable portion of the Spumellaria and Acantharia. These secondary or derived forms may be divided into two quite distinct groups, which may be designated endometamorphic and exometamorphic; in the former the cause of the divergence of the secondary form from the sphere lies in the internal structure of the central capsule; in the latter it lies in the external influence exerted by the growth of the skeleton. Obviously the former series of modifications is more significant than the latter.

54. The Endometamorphic Forms of the Central Capsule.—The secondary forms of the central capsule, which are due to internal causes connected with its growth, are as follows:—

A. The Ellipsoidal Central Capsule, with one axis elongated, so that it becomes the vertical main axis of the body.

a. Among the Spumellaria, Actiprunum (p. 14), Colloprunum (p. 25, Pl. 3, fig. 9), most Prunoidea (p. 288).

b. Among the Acantharia, many Amphilonchida (p. 782, Pl. 132, figs. 2, 6), and Belonaspida (p. 861).

c. Among the Nassellaria, many Plectoidea (p. 905, Pl. 91, figs. 5, 9), Stephoidea (p. 937, Pl. 81, fig. 16), Monocyrtida (Pl. 51, fig. 3), &c.

B. The Cylindrical Central Capsule, with considerable elongation of the vertical main axis, which is several times as long as the horizontal transverse axis.

a. Amongst the Spumellaria, Collophidium (p. 26, Pl. 3, figs. 1-3) and many Prunoidea (Spongurus, &c.).

b. Among the Acantharia, some Amphilonchida.

C. The Discoidal, Spheroidal, or Lenticular Central Capsule, with one axis shorter than the others, which becomes the vertical main axis.

a. Among the Spumellaria, Actidiscus (p. 15), Collodiscus (p. 27), and the large group Discoidea (p. 408).

b. Among the Acantharia, many Quadrilonchida (p. 768, Pl. 131), and most Hexalaspida (p. 874).

c. Among the Nassellaria, certain Stephoidea and Cyrtoidea.

d. Among the great legion Phæodaria the spheroidal central capsule is almost always more or less flattened in the direction of the main axis (p. 1525, Pls. 101-128).

D. The Lentelliptical Central Capsule (or triaxial ellipsoid), with three unequal but isopolar axes at right angles to each other, the sections in all three dimensions of space being ellipses.

a. Among the Spumellaria, Actilarcus and the large group Larcoidea (p. 604).

b. Among the Acantharia, certain Amphilonchida and Belonaspida.

E. The Polymorphic, Amœboid or Irregular Central Capsule.

a. Among the Spumellaria, Collodastrum (p. 28, Pl. 3, figs. 4, 5), and some Larcoidea.

55. The Exometamorphic Forms of the Central Capsule.—The secondary forms of the central capsule, which are brought about by external causes, chiefly dependent on the formation of the skeleton, are very various and in many cases devoid of special interest; in other instances, on the contrary, they are of great importance, because of the clear relation of cause and effect which can be traced between the development of the skeleton and of the capsule. The most important phenomena to be recorded in this connection are as follows:—

I. Spumellaria.—(A) In many of the Sphæroidea, the central capsule of which is originally enclosed by a simple lattice-sphere, it puts out protrusions through the meshes of the shell, thus forming club-shaped processes, corresponding in number with the meshes of the lattice (Pl. 11, figs. 1, 5; Pl. 20, fig. 1a; Pl. 27, fig. 3, &c.). The whole surface of the spherical capsule may thus be covered with numerous independent radial clubs of equal size, but usually they unite again outside the shell to form a simple sphere with smooth surface. (B) In many Prunoidea whose originally ellipsoidal body has become cylindrical by the marked prolongation of the main axis, the central capsule is divided by a series of constrictions into segments, which correspond with the annular constrictions of the skeleton (Pls. 39, 40). (C) In most Discoidea whose lentiform or discoidal shell develops radial arms at its margin, the central capsule sends out processes into these arms, and adapts itself to the stellate form of the skeleton (p. 409, Pl. 43, fig. 15; Pl. 47, &c.) (D) In many Larcoidea whose growth is originally lentelliptical, but later spiral or irregular, the central capsule follows the mode of growth and develops irregular protuberances.

II. Acantharia.—Whilst the central capsule of most Acantharia retains its primitive spherical form, in a minority of the group it passes over into various secondary forms, which are directly determined by the growth of the skeleton; especially common are lappet or club-shaped prominences which follow the larger radial spines. Hence the central capsule may assume the form of a violin, with two lobes corresponding to the two poles of the elongated main axis, as in many Amphilonchida (p. 782, Pl. 132, fig. 10), and the Diploconida (p. 884, Pl. 140). On the other hand the central capsule becomes cruciform, with four lobes disposed at right angles, as in Lithoptera and other Quadrilonchida (p. 768, Pl. 131, fig. 10, &c.).

III. Nassellaria.—The primitive ellipsoid or ovoid form of the central capsule persists only in a few Nassellaria, such as the simplest and most archaic forms, the Nassellida, many Plectoidea, Stephoidea, Monocyrtida, &c. In the great majority of the Nassellaria, on the contrary, the ellipsoid or ovoid form passes over into a secondary form which is usually characterised by the presence of lobes, and is obviously dependent upon the previous development of the skeleton. In many Stephoidea and Spyroidea (probably the majority), a bilobed central capsule is formed (with symmetrically equal right and left lobes), since the primary vertical sagittal ring interferes with the growth in the median plane (Pl. 90, figs. 7-10). In other {xxviii}Spyroidea, on the contrary, and the majority of the Cyrtoidea, the central capsule forms at its basis rounded lobes, which protrude and hang down from the meshes of the cortinar plate; and since this latter has usually three or four large pores, the capsule similarly develops three or four processes (Pl. 53, fig. 19; Pl. 55, figs. 4-11; Pl. 59, figs. 4-13; Pl. 60, figs. 3-7; Pl. 65, fig. 1).

56. The Membrane of the Central Capsule.—The capsule-membrane or envelope of the central capsule is both morphologically and physiologically one of the most important parts of the Radiolarian body, for it separates its two main constituents, the capsule with its nucleus and endoplasm and the extracapsulum with the calymma and exoplasm. The capsule-membrane is invariably present at some time or other during the life of the organism, even though in a few species it may persist only for a short time. It is characterised in general by its power of resistance to chemical and physical reagents, and appears to be related to the elastic tissues or perhaps even more to the chitinous substances. Its thickness is usually less than 0.0001, though in certain groups it ranges between 0.001 and 0.002, and in many of the larger Radiolaria (such as Collida and Phæodaria) it may attain a thickness of 0.003 to 0.006 or more. In the three legions Spumellaria, Acantharia, and Nassellaria the capsule-membrane is single, while in the Phæodaria it is always double, being composed of a firm outer and a delicate inner membrane, which are in contact at only few points. Usually it is quite structureless, except for its apertures; the thicker membrane showing occasionally a fine concentric lamination. In certain large Colloidea (e.g., Thalassicolla, Pl. 1, fig. 5b) the membrane is covered on the inner surface by a network of polygonal ridges, and in some large Phæodaria with remarkable small curved rods (Pl. 114, fig. 13). In all Radiolaria the membrane is perforated by definite openings or pores, through which the intracapsular and extracapsular protoplasm are in direct communication. These openings (or "pylae") show very characteristic and constant differences in the four legions, which have given rise to the names—Peripylea, Actipylea, Monopylea, Cannopylea.

The capsule-membrane was first indicated as the most important and absolutely constant component of all Radiolaria, and as the differential character of the class, in my Monograph (1862, pp. 69-71). The careful investigations of R. Hertwig have confirmed this view and at the same time have yielded the most important conclusions regarding the nature and systematic significance of the openings in the capsule (op. cit., 1879, pp. 105-107). On the contrary, Karl Brandt has recently propounded the theory that the capsule-membrane is by no means a constant part of the Radiolarian organism, but is lacking in certain species of Collozoum and Sphærozoum (1881, p. 392). This contradiction is explained by the fact that in some Collodaria and Acanthometra the formation of the central capsule takes place much later than in the other Radiolaria, in some {xxix}species indeed only just prior to the development of the swarm spores. I have recognised the presence of it in all species which I have investigated (more than a thousand), and even in those in which Brandt denies its existence. It is often very delicate and may easily be overlooked, especially when the contents of the capsule are colourless, but in all cases by the prudent application of staining fluids and other reagents its presence may be demonstrated. Even in those cases in which the contour of the capsule was not visible, and its contents appeared to pass without definite boundary into the matrix of the extracapsulum, it was possible by the use of appropriate stains or reagents, which would not penetrate the capsule, or of those solvents which were capable of dissolving its contents and of causing it to swell up like a distended bladder, to recognise the existence of the membrane. Those Radiolaria in which it is truly absent are young animals of species in which the membrane is only formed immediately before sporification, and persists but for a short time (e.g., species of Collozoum, Sphærozoum, Acanthometra, Acanthochiasma, &c.).

57. The Capsule-Openings of the Peripylea (or Spumellaria).—The capsule-membrane of the Peripylea is generally perforated by extremely fine and numerous pores, which are distributed at equal distances over the whole surface, and are precisely alike in all parts of the capsule. Hence the Spumellaria may be called "Holotrypasta" or "Porulosa"; they agree with the Actipylea in being devoid of an osculum or operculum; they are distinguished from the latter group mainly in that their pores are equally distributed over the whole surface of the capsule, whilst in the Actipylea the pores are disposed in definite groups or lines, separated by large imporous areas.

The central capsule of the Spumellaria, with its innumerable fine and evenly distributed pores, must be regarded as the primitive arrangement, from which the different central capsules of the three other legions have been developed. The central capsule of the Actipylea has been derived from that of the Peripylea by reduction in the number of the pores and their distribution in definite, regularly disposed areas in the membrane. The central capsule of the Osculosa is characterised by the formation of a special main-aperture (osculum) at the basal pole, which is closed in the Monopylea by the porochora, and in the Cannopylea by the astropyle; the remaining pores, with the exception of the accessory openings of many Cannopylea, remain undeveloped in both these legions. In the same way Hertwig regards the central capsule of the Peripylea as the primitive form (1879, L. N. 33, p. 107).

58. The Capsule-Openings of the Actipylea (or Acantharia).—The capsule-membrane of the Actipylea is perforated by very numerous fine pores, which are regularly distributed over the surface of the central capsule, and separated by imporous intervals. Hence the Acantharia belong to the "Holotrypasta" or "Porulosa"; they have neither osculum nor operculum, and agree in this particular with the Peripylea; but they are separated from these latter chiefly by the fact that their pores are much less numerous, and marked off into regularly arranged groups or lines by imporous intervals. In the Peripylea, on the contrary, the pores are much more numerous and are evenly distributed over the whole surface of the capsule.

The central capsule of the Acantharia has hitherto been for the most part confounded with that of the Spumellaria, and no clear distinction has been drawn in this respect between the two legions of the Porulosa. Hertwig, who in 1879 first discovered the remarkably different structure of the Osculosa (Nassellaria and Phæodaria), recognised no distinction between the structure of the capsules in the Peripylea and Actipylea (his Acanthometrea), and supposed that in both these legions "very fine pores were evenly distributed in large numbers over the capsule-membrane" (loc. cit., p. 106). I have, however, during the last few years convinced myself, by the careful comparative investigation of numerous Acantharia, that in this respect they are quite distinct from the Spumellaria (with perhaps the exception of the Astrolophida, which are nearly related to the primitive Actissa). The number of pores in the Actipylea is usually very much smaller than in the Peripylea, and they are regularly arranged in groups.

59. The Capsule-Openings of the Monopylea (or Nassellaria.)—The capsule-membrane of the Monopylea always possesses a single large main-opening, an osculum, which lies at the basal pole of the main axis, and is closed by a circular perforated lid (operculum porosum). When seen from the surface this lid appears as a clearly defined porous area (porochora or area porosa), and forms the horizontal base of a peculiar cone, which stands vertically in the interior of the capsule and may be designated the "thread-cone" (podoconus). The Nassellaria may hence be termed "Merotrypasta" or "Osculosa," like the Cannopylea; the structure and significance of the circular lid (operculum), which closes the main-opening (osculum) is, however, quite different in the two legions. Whilst the lid of the Cannopylea (astropyle) is solid, traversed by radial ribs, and only perforated in its centre by a short tube (proboscis), in the Monopylea the operculum (porochora) is always perforated by numerous vertical fine pores, and is in connection with the peculiar internal "pseudopodial cone" (podoconus, Pl. 51, figs. 5, 13; Pl. 81, fig. 16; Pl. 91, fig. 5; Pl. 98, fig. 13). The pores are separated by small vertical, highly refractive rods (opercular rhabdillæ); these become intensely stained by carmine, and are either evenly distributed over the surface of the porochora or arranged in definite groups. The outer or distal end of each rod is rounded, sometimes thickened like a club or split into lobes; the inner or proximal end is usually pointed, and stands in connection with a myophane thread of the podoconus (see § 79). The primary circular form of the porochora, in which the opercular rhabdillæ are evenly distributed in a horizontal plane, undergoes various secondary modifications in many Nassellaria. The triradial structure of the skeleton, which characterises the majority of the legion, causes a splitting of the base of the central capsule into three or four lobes; this division also affects the porochora, which lies in the centre of the base, so that the rhabdillæ become arranged in three or four equal circles. If, however, the lobes of the central capsule become larger and protrude through the three or four collar pores of the cortinar septum, the central porochora may separate entirely into three or four elongated tracts, which lie on the axial side of the magnified lobes; the rhabdillæ are then arranged over the whole surface of {xxxi}these tracts, on the outer aspect of which run the longitudinal myophane fibrillæ of the podoconus (compare §§ 79 and 99).

The porous area of the Monopylea was first described by Hertwig in 1879, and shown to be the characteristic main-opening of the central capsule in various families belonging to this legion (L. N. 33, pp. 71, 73, 83, 106, Taf. vii., viii.). According to his view "the capsule-membrane in the porous area becomes thickened around each pore into a rod, perforated by a canal," and the intracapsular protoplasm passes outwards through these fine canals (loc. cit., p. 106). I am not able to share this interpretation, but think rather that I have convinced myself by the examination of some living Nassellaria, and of many well-stained and preserved preparations in the Challenger collection, that the rods are solid, specially modified portions of the capsular wall, and that the protoplasm does not pass through them but through pores which lie between them.

60. The Capsule-Openings of the Cannopylea (or Phæodaria).—The capsule-membrane of the Cannopylea always possesses only a single large main-opening or osculum, which lies at the basal pole of the vertical main axis, and is closed by a circular radiated lid (operculum radiatum). This operculum appears, when seen from the surface, as a sharply defined stellate area (astropyle), from the middle of which arises a shorter or longer cylindrical tube, the proboscis. Hence the Phæodaria, like the Monopylea, belong to the "Merotrypasta" or "Osculosa"; the structure and significance of the circular operculum, which closes the main-opening (osculum), are, however, quite different in the two legions. Whilst the operculum of the Monopylea (porochora) is perforated by numerous fine vertical pores, and connected with the peculiar internal pseudopodial cone (podoconus), this structure is entirely wanting in the Cannopylea, and instead of it there is a solid operculum, with radial ribs which originate at the base of its central tubular mouth; this tube (proboscis) is cylindrical, often conical at the base, of very variable length and with a round aperture at either end. In spite of the great difference which the various families of Cannopylea exhibit in the formation of their skeleton and its appendages, the constitution of this characteristic stellate main-opening (astropyle) is always essentially the same; both the stellate operculum itself, and the proboscis which rises from its centre, show only slight differences in the various groups. In addition to this large main-opening most Phæodaria possess several small accessory openings (parapylæ); and usually two of these are present, placed symmetrically right and left of the aboral pole of the main axis and in the frontal plane (Pl. 101, figs. 2, 6, 10; Pl. 104, figs. 1, 2a). Sometimes there are more numerous accessory openings (three to six or more) regularly arranged, as in the two peculiar families, Circoporida and Tuscarorida; occasionally also there is only a single parapyle, at the aboral pole of the main axis (e.g., in Tuscaridium). The parapylæ seem to be quite absent in the families Challengerida, Medusettida, Castanellida, and perhaps also in other Phæodaria. The form and structure of the small accessory openings appear to be always the same. The {xxxii}outer capsule-membrane is elevated in the form of a short cylindrical tube or "apertural ring" (collare paraboscidis), the external margin of which bends inwards, and at the base of the ring passes over into the delicate internal capsule membrane. Upon this apertural ring is situated a longer or shorter "apertural cone" (paraboscis), which is a tubular, cylindrical or conical, prolongation of the membrane, open externally.

The peculiar capsule-openings of the Phæodaria were first discovered and carefully described by Hertwig in 1879 (L. N. 33, pp. 95, 107). He found in all the six genera which he examined three openings, a main-opening at the basal pole of the main axis and two accessory openings, one on either side of the apical pole; hence he named the whole group "Tripylea." This name, however, is not applicable to the numerous Phæodaria mentioned above, which have only a main opening without any accessory openings, nor to those genera in which the number of the latter is variable. I have, therefore, replaced Hertwig's designation by the term "Cannopylea," which has reference to the peculiar tubular form of the opening. This I find much more developed in many Phæodaria than Hertwig has represented, and I must also, in certain particulars, dissent from his delineation of the minute structure, although this is in the main remarkably accurate.

61. The Nucleus.—The nucleus, enclosed in the central capsule of all Radiolaria, behaves in every respect like a true cell-nucleus, and thus lies at the base of the now universal opinion, that the whole Radiolarian organism, in spite of its varied development and remarkable variations, is unicellular and remains throughout life a true individual cell. This important theory is not invalidated by the fact that the nucleus undergoes peculiar modifications in many groups, and in certain groups presents appearances seldom or never seen elsewhere.

62. Uninuclear and Multinuclear Radiolaria (Monocaryotic and Polycaryotic).—All Radiolaria present two different conditions in respect of the behaviour of the nucleus, since in their young stages they are uninuclear (monocaryotic), and in later stages multinuclear (polycaryotic). This is readily explained by the fact that each individual Radiolarian is developed from a simple unicellular swarm-spore, and that afterwards, before the formation of swarm-spores, the single nucleus divides into many small nuclei. Thus in the Radiolaria the nucleus is pre-eminently the organ of reproduction and inheritance. The division of the originally single nucleus into many small nuclei may take place, however, at very different periods, so that the Radiolaria may be divided in this respect into precocious and serotinous.

63. Serotinous and Precocious Radiolaria.—In the great majority of the Radiolaria the division of the nucleus takes place only at a late period, a short time or even immediately before the process of spore formation; it then breaks up rapidly into numerous small nuclei (always more than one hundred, sometimes many thousands), and each of these {xxxiii}either becomes itself the nucleus of a swarm-spore, or by repeated division gives rise to a group of spore-nuclei. All those Radiolaria which are uninuclear during the greater part of their existence, and in which the process of division is late, and takes place rapidly, are called "serotinous" or late-dividing forms. To this category belong all Phæodaria and Nassellaria, as well as all the solitary or monozoic Spumellaria and some Acantharia. On the other hand, the name "precocious," or early dividing, is applied to those Radiolaria in which the division of the nucleus takes place very early, and in which, therefore, the cell is multinuclear during the greater part of its existence. This is the case in all the social or polyzootic Radiolaria (Polycyttaria, Pls. 3-8), and also in the great majority of the Acantharia, both Acanthometra and Acanthophracta. In the last two groups, however, there are numerous exceptions, and these are seen in remarkably large species, characterised by the great size of the central capsule. From a phylogenetic point of view, the conclusion is allowable that the precocious forms are secondary, and have arisen by adaptive modification from the primitive serotinous stem. In the Polycyttaria (or social Spumellaria, i.e., the three families Collozoida, Sphærozoida, and Collosphærida), the cause of the adaptation lies most probably in the formation of the colony itself, for all these three families are so closely related to three corresponding families of serotinous, monozootic Radiolaria (Thalassicollida, Thalassosphærida, Ethmosphærida), that certain species of the latter are hardly to be distinguished from isolated individuals of the former. Perhaps the remarkable formation of the large central oil-globule, which particularly characterises the Polycyttaria, is the prime cause of their early nuclear division. In the Acantharia the cause is most likely to be found in the characteristic centrogenous development of their acanthin skeleton, whose radial bars first of all appear in the centre of the capsule. Hence arises directly the excentric position of the nucleus, which in the archaic stem of Acantharia (Actissa?) was probably central. In any case, but little weight is to be laid upon the precocious division of the nucleus in the Acantharia in general, inasmuch as in certain species (both Acanthometra and Acanthophracta) the more usual serotinous division persists.

64. Central and Excentric Nuclei.—The position of the nucleus in the interior of the central capsule was no doubt primitively central, and this situation in the geometrical centre of the original spherical central capsule has been accurately retained in all monozootic Spumellaria; in the polyzootic families of this legion (Polycyttaria), on the contrary, it is obscured by the precocious division of the nucleus. In the other three legions, which may be phylogenetically derived from the Spumellaria, the position of the nucleus is rarely central, but usually excentric, or at most subcentral. In the Acantharia (both Acanthometra and Acanthophracta) the central position of the nucleus is at once excluded by the constantly centrogenous development of the skeleton; the nucleus is therefore always excentric, and may lie at either side; it usually {xxxiv}divides very early into numerous separate nuclei, which are usually distributed in the peripheral portions of the central capsule. In the Nassellaria the development of the porochora, and of the podoconus which stands upon it, brings about the formation of a vertical axis, and in consequence the central capsule assumes a monaxon form (usually ovoid or conical); the nucleus then lies in the main axis, but excentrically between the apex of the podoconus and the aboral pole. In many Nassellaria, however, especially when the podoconus is so large that its apex approaches the aboral pole of the central capsule, the nucleus is pressed to one side and lies quite excentrically. The Phæodaria exhibit a different arrangement; the large spheroidal nucleus is always subcentral, so that its main axis corresponds with that of the concentric spheroidal central capsule; but since the astropyle always occupies the oral pole of the latter, and since the distance of the nucleus from this pole is always somewhat different from its distance from the other, it follows that, strictly speaking, the nucleus never lies accurately in the geometrical centre.

65. Homogeneous and Allogeneous Nuclei.—The nucleus of the Radiolaria not only exhibits a similar structure and composition, and suffers similar modifications to those which are found to occur in the case of other cell-nuclei, but also to some extent shows very peculiar developmental forms, which are seldom or never found in other cells. In the first place the nuclei may be divided into homogeneous and allogeneous, the former are structureless and consist of a uniform mass of nuclein, whilst the latter are composed of different substances and show various structural relations. Homogeneous nuclei, whose whole mass is uniform and exhibits no structural differentiation, are probably always to be found in the swarm-spores; in the fully developed Radiolarian body they are found only in the first legion, Spumellaria, and that both in many Monozoa (especially small Sphæroidea and Prunoidea) and in the Polyzoa (or Polycyttaria). The whole mass of these homogeneous nuclei, which are usually spherical or ellipsoidal, consists of uniform, perfectly clear and transparent nuclein, and becomes evenly stained by carmine, hæmatoxyline, &c. They may be readily distinguished by these means from the clear vacuoles or "hyaline vesicles," which are evenly distributed in the endoplasm of many Radiolaria, and may be confused with the former. Allogeneous nuclei, which are always composed of different parts and often show complicated structural relations, are found developed in the great majority of Radiolaria. The most important differentiation exhibited by these secondary forms is the separation of the nuclear mass into a firm nuclear substance (caryoplasm) and a fluid nuclear juice (caryolymph). In addition in each nucleus a nucleolus is visible, and often several or many may be seen (see §§ 67 to 70).

66. The Form of the Nucleus.—The nucleus of the Radiolaria shows greater variations in form and structure than are to be found in the majority of cell-nuclei; {xxxv}exception must, however, be made in the case of many animal ovicells, which, in their peculiar form and composition, often recall large Radiolarian nuclei. With respect to the external shape two main forms may be distinguished, as primary and secondary. The primary form of the Radiolarian nucleus is the sphere; it occurs not only in most swarm-spores, but also in most adult forms belonging to the legion Spumellaria, and in individual instances in other groups; indeed the nuclei of most Spumellaria, as also the concentric central capsules in which they lie, are true geometrical spheres. The secondary forms of the nucleus are found in the majority of adult Radiolaria, and arise from the primary spherical forms in various ways, either by the elongation or contraction of one axis, or by the formation of apophyses or processes. The most important of these secondary forms are as follows:—

1. Ellipsoidal nuclei, arising by elongation of one principal axis; very common among the Nassellaria, as well as in many Prunoidea and Larcoidea among the Spumellaria; also in several Acantharia.

2. Discoidal nuclei, arising by contraction of one principal axis, sometimes lenticular or spheroidal, biconvex, sometimes shaped like a disc or coin; especially common in the Discoidea among the Spumellaria, also in some Acantharia; the large nucleus of the Phæodaria is always spheroidal or almost spherical, with a slightly shortened main axis.

3. Stellate nuclei, spherical, and armed with evenly distributed radial club-shaped or conical processes; rare but very characteristic, especially in the two large Thalassicollida Thalassopila (Pl. 1, fig. 3), and Thalassophysa (Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. i.); also in some Sphærellaria (Pl. 11, fig. 5).

4. Amœboid nuclei, with unequal processes irregularly arranged, in certain irregular forms of Spumellaria and Acantharia.

5. Lobate nuclei, with several (usually two or three) large ovoid or pyriform lobes, which protrude into corresponding larger lobes of the central capsule, in many Nassellaria, especially the multiarticulate Cyrtoidea (Pl. 59, figs. 12, 13). The budding nucleus of the Acantharia is also lobate (Pl. 129, figs. 6-11).

67. The Nucleus of the Peripylea.—The nucleus of the Spumellaria or Peripylea shows in certain groups a very primitive arrangement, indeed the archaic structure from which the various forms of nuclei of other Radiolaria may be derived; but on the other hand, in other groups it exhibits very peculiar and remarkable differentiations. In the first place it may be noted that the monozootic or solitary Spumellaria usually possess a single serotinous nucleus, which only divides into numerous swarm-spores at a late period; {xxxvi}whilst, on the contrary, the polyzootic colonial Spumellaria (or Polycyttaria) are uninuclear only in the young state (Pl. 3, fig. 12), and speedily present numerous small homogeneous nuclei, which have arisen by precocious division of a single nucleus; these are usually spherical and 0.008 to 0.012 mm. in diameter. The serotinous nucleus of the monozootic Spumellaria, in many divisions of this large legion, and especially in the simply constituted Sphæroidea, is a homogeneous sphere of nuclein, lying in the middle of the central capsule. In many other cases it assumes the form of a spherical vesicle ("Binnen-Bläschen"), whose fluid or semi-fluid contents are enclosed by a more or less firm membrane. This vesicle often contains a single central spherical nucleolus (Pl. 1, figs. 1l, 4l), but sometimes a variable number of small excentric nucleoli (Pl. 1, figs. 1a, 2a). The nuclear membrane is often somewhat thick, presenting a double contour, and in such cases may even exhibit a fine radial striation, the expression of minute pores (Pl. 1, fig. 2a). In the colossal nuclei (as much as 1 to 2 mm. in diameter) of certain large Thalassicollida the nucleolus presents a very remarkable form, becoming stellate by the protrusion of processes, which may again branch in a dendritic fashion (as in the common Thalassicolla nucleata), or it may develop into a very long cylindrical thread, which is disposed in serpentine coils, and in Thalassophysa pelagica passes into the different cæcal processes of the stellate nucleus. In many Sphæroidea, whose skeleton is composed of numerous concentric lattice spheres, the small central spherical nucleus lies at first within the innermost of these (the medullary shell); but afterwards it grows through the meshes of the lattice-work, and the radiating club-shaped processes thus formed (Pl. 11, fig. 5) unite with each other outside the medullary shell, and form an external nuclear sphere which completely encloses the latter. In the Polysphærida (with several concentric lattice-shells) and in the Spongosphærida (with spongy lattice-spheres), this process may be several times repeated, so that eventually the central spherical nucleus attains considerable dimensions, and encloses two or more concentric lattice-shells with their radial connecting rods. The nuclear membrane is in these cases usually penetrated by radial bars, which connect the outermost of the enclosed shells with the remaining cortical shells which surround the central capsule. The same remarkable arrangement is also very common among the Discoidea. The small spherical primary nucleus is in such instances immediately surrounded by the innermost earliest developed lattice-shell, around which the concentric rings are subsequently deposited; it then grows out through the meshes, and the processes fuse outside the ring to form a homogeneous lentiform nucleus (Pl. 43, fig. 15). The same process recurs in certain Prunoidea and Larcoidea, whilst in other Spumellaria of these groups (e.g., Pylonida) the lobate processes of the nucleus remain free.

Both the simple serotinous nucleus of the monozootic Spumellaria, and the numerous precocious nuclei of the Polycyttaria, were first described in my Monograph in 1862, the former as the "endocyst" ("Binnen-Bläschen"), the latter as "spherical transparent vesicles" ("Kugelige {xxxvii}wasserhelle Bläschen"). I was in error, however, in regarding the latter as identical with the so-called "hyaline spherules" in the central capsule of many Monozoa, which rather belong to the category of intracapsular vacuoles (see § 72). The credit of recognising, by the aid of the modern methods of staining, the distinctness of these two structures, which may readily be mistaken for each other, and of demonstrating the true nature both of the serotinous and precocious nuclei, belongs to Richard Hertwig (1879, L. N. 33).

68. The Nucleus of the Actipylea.—The nucleus of the Acantharia or Actipylea shows very peculiar relations in respect of structure and division, particularly special forms of lobular budding, which belong to the characteristic peculiarities of this singular legion, and are not found among other Radiolaria. The position of the nucleus is always excentric, even in the youngest Acantharia, for the centrogeneous formation of the skeleton, the constant development of the earliest radial portions of it in the middle of the central capsule, forces the nucleus from its normal central position. The majority of the Acantharia, like most Polycyttaria, are precocious, the primary nucleus early dividing into numerous small nuclei (see note A below). Nevertheless there are many exceptions to this rule in different families, e.g., Stauracantha, Xiphacantha, Phatnacantha, and Pristacantha among the Acanthometra, and Stauraspis, Echinaspis, Dodecaspis, and Phatnaspis among the Acanthophracta. In these instances the primary nucleus remains for a long time as a simple excentric ellipsoidal or irregularly round body, even in the fully developed stage, and only at a very late period (sometimes just before the formation of the spores) divides into many small nuclei. Since this serotinous division of the nucleus takes place in different genera of very various groups, it can only be decided by further investigations how widely it is spread among the Acantharia, and upon what circumstances it is dependent (see note B). The division of the nucleus appears to be precocious in the majority of this legion, and a number of small nuclei appear to be early formed by a peculiar process of budding; in most fully developed Acantharia these are disposed in one or two layers under the surface of the central capsule, but if their numbers increase to any considerable extent, the whole space between the skeletal rods becomes filled with small nuclei; sometimes these are homogeneous, sometimes vesicular, 0.002 to 0.012 mm. in diameter; usually they are spherical and have a small nucleolus (compare Pl. 129, figs. 6-11, and note C).

A. The numerous nuclei, which are to be found in the central capsule of most mature Acantharia, were first described in my Monograph (1862) as "spherical, transparent vesicles, provided with a small dark granule" (p. 374, Taf. xv. figs. 2, 5; Taf. xvi. figs. 2, 4; Taf. xxi. fig. 7, &c.). Their more minute constitution and peculiar origin were first accurately delineated by R. Hertwig (1879, loc. cit., pp. 11-24, Taf. i-iii.).

B. The fact that in a number of Acantharia the nucleus does not divide early as in the majority of the legion, but only at a later period, was first observed by R. Hertwig in a species of Acanthometra (Xiphacantha serrata), and a species of Acanthophracta (Phatnaspis {xxxviii}mülleri = Haliommatidium mülleri) (loc. cit., pp. 11 and 27). This serotinous division of the nucleus seems, however, to be rather widely spread in both sublegions of the Acantharia; I have found, not only in the forms above mentioned, but also in several others belonging to different genera, a single large excentric nucleus, even in those individuals in which the skeleton was fully developed.

C. The peculiar mode of nuclear budding, by which these small nuclei arise, appears to proceed in the following manner (Pl. 129). The vesicular primary nucleus, which, in consequence of the centrogeneous development of the skeleton protrudes as it grows into irregular lobes (Pl. 129, fig. 9), assumes a peculiar concavo-convex form, sometimes that of a hood or dish, sometimes that of a kidney or sausage. The convex surface is apposed to the capsule-membrane, while the concave is turned towards the central star of the skeleton (fig. 6). There is now formed at the centre of the convex surface of the strong, doubly-contoured, nuclear membrane, a flask-shaped invagination with a narrow neck and expanded base; the membrane now becomes disposed in peculiar folds, which at the narrow aperture of invagination appear as folds, but on the expanded body of the flask take the form of concentric rings, laid closely side by side (Pl. 129, fig. 10). The convex bottom of the flask, which is directed towards the concave proximal side of the nucleus, becomes again invaginated by a central conical apophysis of the enlarged nucleolus, which is situated between them. Usually the nucleolus has already become flattened into a lentiform shape, and upon its distal face a conical apophysis has been developed, which is divisible into a darker proximal and clearer distal portion. The tip of the latter appears to be in direct connection with the nuclear membrane at the centre of the base of the flask-shaped invagination (figs. 6, 10). At this stage of development the nucleus of the Acantharia generally presents the characteristic form of a hood-shaped, concavo-convex vesicle, whose radial axis is also the axis of the flask-shaped distal invagination, and of the depressed conical nucleolus, which lies between the latter and the concave side of the nucleus. After this peculiar invagination has persisted for some time in connection with the enlarged nucleolus, both disappear, and then a remarkable growth of lobular processes takes place on the concave proximal side of the hood or kidney-shaped nucleus; from four to eight knobs of unequal size usually appear, and their thickened wall encloses a variable number of small of nucleoli; these are at first few but afterwards more numerous (fig. 7). Subsequently these knobs or lobes become completely separated by constriction from the original central mass of the nucleus, and appear as so many separate independent "sausage-shaped bodies" in the hollow central capsule (fig. 8). Each of the bodies now appears, and at first on its convex aspect, to form a large number of small nucleoli, which either separate by constriction from it or become free by its breaking up and lie in numbers in the central capsule. Finally the buds or lobes of the nucleus break up entirely into such nucleoli, which are evenly distributed in the central capsule, and become the nuclei of the swarm-spores (fig. 11). Compare R. Hertwig, L. N. 33, Taf. i.-iii. pp. 19-25.

69. The Nucleus of the Monopylea.—The nucleus of the mature forms of the Nassellaria or Monopylea is generally simple or lobate, homogeneous or vesicular and excentric, and appears only to divide into numerous small nuclei just before the formation of the spores. Nevertheless I have sometimes, though not often, seen in representatives of very various families of the Monopylea, the central capsule filled with many small spherical homogeneous nuclei (Pl. 53, fig. 19). Hence all the families of this legion appear to be serotinous, their simple primitive nucleus persisting for a long period. It {xxxix}is commonly placed excentrically, and most usually in the apical or aboral portion of the central capsule, either between its apex and the podoconus, or quite excentrically on the dorsal aspect. The simple nucleus of the Nassellaria usually appears to be vesicular and to possess a somewhat firm membrane, clear contents, and a rather large, dark coloured nucleolus. In many Nassellaria the nucleus is spherical or ellipsoidal (Pl. 53, fig. 11); whilst in many Stephoidea and Spyroidea, where the central capsule is constricted by the sagittal ring and divided into two symmetrical lateral lobes, the nucleus partakes of the same mode of growth and appears in the middle of the capsule as a transversely placed ellipsoid or even as a short cylinder (Pl. 90, figs. 7, 9). The most remarkable modification in the form of the nucleus is to be found in the multi-articulate Cyrtoidea. Here it is usually enclosed in the cephalis and is spherical, ellipsoidal or spheroidal, often flattened almost into a disc. If now the central capsule increase greatly in size and put forth three or four clavate lobes which hang down through the pores of the cortinar septum into the thorax (or even into the succeeding joints), the nucleus usually undergoes similar modification, and three or four finger-like apophyses are developed from its base, which project into the corresponding lobes of the central capsule (Pl. 59, figs. 4, 12, 13).

The numerous small, spherical, homogeneous nuclei which are to be found in the central capsules of those Nassellaria, which are ripe and about to develop spores, were described in 1862 in my Monograph, as "numerous, small, transparent, spherical cells" in the case of various Cyrtoidea (Arachnocorys, Lithomelissa, Eucecryphalus, Eucyrtidium, &c.) (loc. cit., pp. 302, 305, 309, 321, &c.), and I find them of the same form and dimensions, but deeply stained with carmine in many preparations in the Challenger collection. R. Hertwig has delineated them very accurately in the case of Tridictyopus (1879, loc. cit., p. 84, Taf. vii. fig. 3). He was also the first to recognise the uninucleate condition of the Nassellaria, which is much more frequently observed than the serotinous multinucleate condition, and he described very clearly the peculiar lobed nuclei which arise in Cyrtoidea, owing to the protrusion of the nucleus through the cortinar septum (loc. cit., p. 85, Taf. viii. figs. 3-8).

70. The Nucleus of the Cannopylea.—The nucleus presents the same remarkable structures in all species of the Phæodaria or Cannopylea which have been examined, and closely resembles the germinal vesicle of an amphibian ovum, being a large spherical or spheroidal vesicle with numerous nucleoli. Its diameter usually amounts to half or two-thirds, sometimes even three-quarters, that of the central capsule. The vertical main axis of the latter is also that of the nucleus, which usually lies somewhat nearer to the aboral pole. The nucleus is generally rather more strongly compressed in the direction of the main axis than the capsule itself. The membrane of the vesicular nucleus is thin, but firm, and encloses a clear or finely granular mass of nuclein. The number and size of the contained nucleoli are variable even in one and the same species, and stand in inverse ratio to each other, an obvious result of the gradual process of division. Commonly {xl}from twenty to fifty roundish or spherical, strongly refracting nucleoli, are present; more rarely there are several hundred very small ones. Sometimes the nucleus is penetrated by fine trabeculæ, in whose meshes lie the nucleoli (Pl. 101, fig. 2). In certain nuclei, which contained a few large nucleoli, these were of irregular form, probably the result of amœboid movements (Pl. 101, fig. 1). In the formation of spores in the Cannopylea, the nucleus apparently becomes dissolved, and its numerous nucleoli develop directly into the nuclei or mother-nuclei, which produce the nuclei of the flagellate spores. Furthermore, many Phæodaria seem to multiply by simple cell-division, since very commonly (especially in the Phæocystina and Phæoconchia) two large nuclei (right and left), may be met with in one central capsule; sometimes also a single large nucleus, in which a sagittal constriction marks the commencing division of the capsule (Pl. 101, figs. 2, 36; Pl. 104, fig. 3; Pl. 124, fig. 6, &c.).

The large nucleus of the Phæodaria was first described in my Monograph in 1862, in the case of Aulacantha (p. 263), Aulosphæra (p. 359), and Cœlodendrum (p. 361), as a "large, spherical, thin-walled endocyst," from 0.1 to 0.2 mm. in diameter. More detailed descriptions, especially with respect to the behaviour of the nucleoli were given by R. Hertwig in 1879 (L. N. 33, p. 97).

71. The Endoplasm or Intracapsular Protoplasm.—In all Radiolaria the intracapsular protoplasm, which, for the sake of brevity, may be termed "endoplasm," constitutes originally, and especially in the earliest stages, the only important content of the central capsule, except the nucleus. In certain Spumellaria and Nassellaria, of simple structure and of small dimensions, this condition persists for a long period, and the endoplasm then appears as a homogeneous, colourless, turbid or finely granular, mucous, semi-solid mass, which cannot be distinguished from the ordinary undifferentiated protoplasm of young cells; no definite structure, and in particular, no fibrillar network, can be discovered in it even by the use of the customary reagents. In the great majority of the Radiolaria, however, this primitive homogeneous condition of the endoplasm is very transient, and it soon undergoes definite modifications, becoming differentiated into separate parts or producing new constituent contents. Such products of the internal protoplasm are in particular hyaline spheres (vacuoles and alveoles), oil-globules, pigment-bodies, crystals, &c. The most important of the differentiations which take place in the endoplasm is that into an internal, granular, medullary substance and an external, fibrillar, cortical substance; although the various legions behave somewhat differently in this respect (§§ 77-80).

72. Intracapsular Hyaline Spheres.—The central capsule of very many Radiolaria contains in its endoplasm numerous spherical bodies of varying size, which consist of watery or albuminous fluid, and have previously been regarded as nuclei, or described as products of the internal protoplasm, under various names, such as "spherical transparent {xli}vesicles" (see note A, below), "albumen spheres" (see B), "gelatinous spheres" (see C), "alveolar cells" (see D), &c. Some of these spheres are perfectly transparent, structureless and of varying refractive power, producing the impression of drops of fluid; others contain various formed constituents, such as oil-globules, fat-granules, pigment-granules, concretions, crystals, &c. From a morphological point of view they may all be divided into two categories, membraneless vacuoles and vesicular alveoles. The vacuoles are simple spherical drops of fluid or of gelatinous material, devoid of a special envelope, but immediately surrounded by the endoplasm. The alveoles, on the other hand, are true vesicles with a thin spherical envelope, enclosing a drop of fluid or jelly. This envelope is commonly very thin, homogeneous, and often scarcely discernible, so that in practice a sharp line of demarcation cannot be drawn between alveoles and vacuoles; the former are usually somewhat larger than the latter. The fact is, nevertheless, certain that the hyaline spheres, which may be isolated on rupturing the central capsule of many Radiolaria, in certain cases, particularly in large species, possess a clear, anatomically demonstrable membrane, whilst in others no such appearance is presented. It may be assumed that the vesicular alveoles are developed from the drop-like vacuoles by increase in size, and by the precipitation of a delicate envelope from the endoplasm. The character common to all these hyaline spheres, whether vacuoles or alveoles, is found in their aqueous, not adipose, constitution, and in their clear transparent appearance, which allows of no structure (the above-mentioned contained bodies excepted) being recognised. Their refractive power and consistency vary somewhat, and probably their chemical constitution still more. Sometimes they are strongly refractive and shining, and sometimes feebly refractive and pale; their consistency shows all intermediate stages between a thin fluid, which readily disappears in water, and a firm, insoluble jelly. As regards their chemical composition (which is probably very variable), the hyaline spheres may be best divided into two groups, the organic and inorganic. The inorganic hyaline spheres are simple drops of saline solution without any carbonaceous constituent; the organic, on the other hand, contain a small quantity of organic matter dissolved in the watery fluid, and may be either albuminous or gelatinous spheres. The formed contents which are commonly present are of very various natures, usually small fat-granules, more rarely larger fat-granules or pigment-granules, sometimes concretions or crystals. In many groups, especially among the large Phæodaria and Collodaria, the numerous hyaline spheres are remarkable for their equal size and even distribution throughout the endoplasm (Pl. 1, figs. 1, 4; Pl. 104, fig. 2, &c.). In some genera belonging to the Thalassicollida the alveoles are of enormous size (Pl. 1, figs. 2, 3); they then become flattened by mutual pressure into polyhedra and distend the central capsule to unusual dimensions (in Physematium and Thalassolampe 8 to 12 mm.).

A. The "spherical hyaline vesicles," which I described in my Monograph (1862, p. 71) as among the most important and constant contents of the central capsule, are partly vacuoles, {xlii}partly homogeneous nuclei. Most recent investigators, Bütschli in particular (1882, L. N. 41), have pointed out and rightly criticised this confusion. The criticism might, however, have been more justly expressed by stating that, in the preparation of my Monograph (1859-1862), I did not make use of modern methods of demonstrating the nucleus by staining fluids, which were quite unknown at the time, and only discovered a decade later. In fact, without the aid of such reagents, it is quite impossible to distinguish between the various "spherical transparent vesicles," of which those found in the central capsule of the Phæodaria and many monozootic Collodaria are simple vacuoles lying in the endoplasm, whilst, on the other hand, those of the Polycyttaria and many other Radiolaria are true homogeneous nuclei. For not only are the general appearance of the small clear spheres, their refractive power, and regular distribution in the endoplasm quite similar, but they are also of much the same size, for the diameter ranges from 0.005 to 0.015 mm., being generally between 0.008 and 0.012 mm. In addition to this there is generally in each hyaline sphere a dark brightly shining granule, which, in the case of the vacuole, is simply a fat-granule, whilst in the case of the nucleus, it is a true nucleolus. The small hyaline spheres in the young uninucleate capsules of the Polycyttaria are simple vacuoles (Pl. 3, fig. 12), whilst in the ripe multinucleate capsules they are true nuclei (Pl. 3, figs. 3, 8, 9), and it is quite impossible to discriminate between these two conditions without the use of reagents. This has been expressly recognised by R. Hertwig, who has the merit of having been the first to clearly distinguish, by the aid of staining fluids, between these two different constituents (1879, L. N. 33, p. 108).

B. The "albumen spheres," which were first observed by A. Schneider in 1858 in the common cosmopolitan Thalassicolla nucleata (L. N. 13, p. 40), and which appear to occur in only a few other Thalassicollida, are distinguished from the ordinary hyaline spheres of about the same size by their higher refractive power and by certain albuminoid reactions, especially the coagulation of a membranous envelope under the influence of certain reagents (see my Monograph, p. 250, and Hertwig, L. N. 26, 1876, p. 46). They often enclose various formed contents, and require further investigation.

C. The gelatinous spheres of various sizes, found in the endoplasm of the Radiolaria, agree in their reactions (especially in staining by certain reagents) with the common extracapsular jelly of the calymma, and are hence distinguishable both from the true (coagulable) "albumen sphere," and from the ordinary watery vacuoles.

D. The alveoles, which are only accurately known in the case of certain large monozootic Collodaria, but which also seem to occur in the central capsule of other remarkably large Radiolaria, were described in my Monograph in the case of Thalassolampe margarodes and Physematium mülleri, under the name "intracapsular alveolar cells" (1862, pp. 77, 254, 257). They are not, however, true nucleated cells, and the body described as a nucleus is not such in reality. Nevertheless these large hyaline spheres do possess a special envelope, as I have recently convinced myself by the examination of ruptured central capsules of Thalassolampe maxima, Thalassopila cladococcus, and Physematium atlanticum (Pl. 1, figs. 2, 3). The central capsule of these Collodaria becomes distended to most unusual dimensions (2 to 12 mm. in diameter) by the great development of these large hyaline vesicles, each of which measure from 0.1 to 0.5 mm. in diameter.

73. The Intracapsular Fat-Globules.—Fat is present in the central capsule of all Radiolaria in larger or smaller quantities, and generally appears in the form of very {xliii}numerous, small, spherical granules, which are either distributed evenly in the endoplasm (as an emulsion) or enclosed in the vacuoles; the latter, in particular, is the case in most Phæodaria, perhaps generally. In this group each vacuole contains as a rule a single dark, shining fat-granule, and sometimes also an irregular bunch composed of from two to five or more granules. In addition to these small fat-granules (granula adiposa) which are always present, the central capsule of many Radiolaria contains also larger fat-globules (globuli adiposi). These appear to be generally wanting in the Phæodaria, and are on the whole rare in the Acantharia; whilst, on the contrary, they are very common in the Nassellaria and Spumellaria. The Polycyttaria or social Radiolaria are as a rule distinguished by the possession of a single large central oil-globule, which lies in the centre of the central capsule, and is on an average about one-third of it in diameter (Pl. 3, figs. 4, 5). This is absent, however, in those young capsules of the Polycyttaria in which the primary nucleus is centrally situated (Pl. 3, fig. 12). Those species of Polycyttaria whose central capsule reaches a considerable size, often enclose numerous oil-globules, and in Collophidium (species of Collozoum with an elongated cylindrical capsule, Pl. 3, figs. 1, 3) the axis of each capsule is occupied by a row of numerous oil-globules. In the monozootic Spumellaria, in which the nucleus is always centrally situated, the large oil-globules are, of course, excentric, being in apposition to the inner surface of the capsule-membrane (Pl. 1, fig. 3; Pl. 2, figs. 2, 5). In the Discoidea the oil-globules, which are often present in large numbers, form elegant concentric rings around the central nucleus, and in those species with segmented arms, there are one or more transverse rows in each segment (Pl. 43, fig. 15). In the Nassellaria the number and distribution of the oil-globules are dependent upon the form of the central capsule. When this is simple, without lobes, and ovoid or conical, they generally lie in its aboral half above the podoconus (Pl. 51, figs. 5, 13; Pl. 97, fig. 1). When, on the contrary, the basal portion of the capsule sends out three or four dependent processes (as in the majority of the Cyrtoidea), a large globule may generally be seen in the swollen distal part of each conical or ovoid lobe (Pl. 53, fig. 19; Pl. 60, figs. 4-7). In many Stephoidea and Spyroidea, whose central capsule is separated into two lateral portions by the constriction corresponding to the sagittal ring, each of these contains either a single large globule or a group of small ones (Pl. 90, figs. 7, 10). These oil-globules are usually colourless and highly refractive; rarely they are yellow or brown, sometimes rose-coloured, or an intense blood-red (e.g., in Thalassophysa sanguinolenta) or even orange (in Physematium mülleri). In many Spumellaria, and particularly in the Polycyttaria, an albuminous substratum may be recognised in them, which is sometimes disposed in layers, and after extraction of the fat presents the appearance of a laminated sphere. The physiological significance of the oil-globules is twofold; in the first place they tend to diminish the specific gravity of the organism; in the second they may be utilised as a reserve store {xliv}of nutriment. In the latter respect they are of special importance in the process of spore-formation, each flagellate spore usually containing a fat-granule.

74. The Intracapsular Pigment-Bodies.—In the majority of Radiolaria when observed alive, the central capsule is coloured, only in the minority is it colourless. The colour is never diffuse, but always due to the formation of definite pigment granules or vesicles, which are sometimes distributed evenly throughout the endoplasm, sometimes aggregated in the central or peripheral regions. Their form may be either spherical, irregularly rounded, or polyhedral. They vary much in dimensions, but in most cases are immeasurably small, and appear under a high magnifying power as fine dust; occasionally, however, their diameter may amount to from 0.001 to 0.005 or more. The chemical constitution of the intracapsular pigment is unknown in most Radiolaria, and is probably very various. In many instances the pigment-granules consist of fat, in others not. The commonest colours are yellow, red, and brown; violet and blue are rare, and green still rarer. Sometimes a definite tone of colour prevails throughout a whole group, and may then be attributed to inheritance, e.g., red is found in most Sphæroidea, and blue in the Polycyttaria (see note A). One colour is almost always constant in the members of the same species. True pigment-cells, belonging to the Radiolarian organism, do not occur within the central capsule. The peculiar yellow cells which are found in the central capsule of many Acantharia are symbiotic xanthellæ (see § 76).

A. The number of Radiolaria whose pigment has been examined in the living state, is too small to allow of any general conclusions being drawn. Regarding the different colours known, see my Monograph, L. N. 16, p. 76.

75. The Intracapsular Crystals.—The crystals found in the central capsule of many Radiolaria may be divided into two groups, of very different significance; small crystals, which are very widely distributed, and large crystals, which occur in only a few genera. The small crystals may also be termed "spore-crystals," since each swarm-spore often contains such a crystal. They are rod-like or spindle-shaped, and consist of an organic substance which probably serves as a reserve of nutriment for the developing spores. Such spore-crystals have been observed in numerous Spumellaria and Acantharia belonging to various families, and are probably present throughout the two legions which make up the Porulosa. On the other hand, they have not been noticed in the Osculosa (Nassellaria and Phæodaria), the few swarm-spores belonging to these groups which have been observed not exhibiting any crystals. The large crystals, which occur in small numbers in the endoplasm, have hitherto only been observed in a few species of Spumellaria, belonging to the Polycyttaria. They were first noticed in the common Collosphæra huxleyi, and regarded as cœlestin. They are also found in the central capsule of many other Collosphærida, e.g., Buccinosphæra (Pl. 5, figs. 11, 12). Crystal-masses, crystal-sheaves, or spherical masses of radiating acicular crystals are enclosed in {xlv}the vacuoles or "albumen globules" of Thalassicola nucleata and other Thalassicollida, as well as in the central capsule of Cœlographis and some other Phæodaria (Pl. 127, figs. 4-7). All these large crystals are probably to be regarded as excretory products.

75A. The Intracapsular Concrements.—Concretions, either mineral or organic, of varying form and constitution, are to be found in the endoplasm of Radiolaria belonging to very different families. They are most abundant and multiform in Thalassicolla nucleata, being usually circular or elliptical discs, which are concentrically laminated and highly refractive, resembling starch-grains. Among them twin forms may frequently be observed, as though the concrements were in process of division (see note A). Similar amyloid concretions are to be seen in the central capsule of different Spumellaria and Nassellaria, e.g., in Cephalospyris triangulata (Pl. 96, fig. 28). Violin-shaped, highly refractive concrements have been observed in the central capsule of numerous Spumellaria, Nassellaria, and Acantharia, e.g., Thalassosphæra, Spongosphæra, Plegmosphæra, Cyrtocalpis, Peripyramis, Botryocella, &c. (see note B). The chemical constitution of these concrements is insufficiently known.

A. The amyloid concretions of Thalassicolla nucleata have been described in detail in my Monograph (pp. 80, 250, Taf. iii. figs. 2, 3), and by R. Hertwig in the Histologie der Radiolarien (1876, p. 47, Taf. iii. figs. 9-13).

B. The violin-shaped concretions of Thalassosphæra bifurca have been figured in my Monograph (pp. 80, 261, Taf. xii. fig. 1).

76. The Intracapsular Xanthellæ.—The xanthellæ, zooxanthellæ, or symbiotic "yellow cells" are found within the central capsule only in the Acantharia, whilst in other Radiolaria they only occur in the extracapsulum. They are most frequent in the Acanthometra, rarer in the Acanthophracta, but even in the former they are often wanting. Their number is very variable, but usually small, from ten to thirty in one capsule. They lie for the most part immediately below the capsule membrane, in the cortical layer of the endoplasm. The form of the yellow cells is either spherical or ellipsoidal, often also spheroidal or even lentiform. The diameter varies from 0.01 to 0.03 mm. They possess a distinct membrane and an excentric nucleus, and contain numerous yellow pigment-granules in the endoplasm. This yellow pigment dissolves in mineral acids to form a green fluid, and in other respects also behaves somewhat differently from the yellow pigment in the extracapsular yellow cells of the Spumellaria and Nassellaria. In both cases, however, the xanthellæ are not integral portions of the organism, but unicellular algae, living as parasites or symbiontes in the body.

A. The yellow cells in the central capsule of the Acantharia were first observed by Joh. Müller (L. N. 12, pp. 14, 47). In my Monograph I described them at greater length, and indicated their differences from the extracapsular yellow cells of other Radiolaria (L. N. 16, pp. 77, 86). Since then, R. Hertwig has demonstrated their cellular nature (L. N. 33, pp. 12, 113), and still more recently {xlvi}Brandt has given further accurate information regarding their occurrence, constitution, and physiological significance (L. N. 39, ii. Art., p. 235, figs. 62-73).

77. The Endoplasm of the Peripylea.—The intracapsular protoplasm of the Spumellaria or Peripylea is usually distinguished by a more or less complete radial arrangement, which does not occur in the same form in other Radiolaria; it may be regarded as characteristic of this legion, for it probably occurs in all the species at some period of life or other, and stands in a direct causal relationship with the typical structure of the capsule-membrane in all the "Peripylea" (see note A). For as this is commonly perforated by very numerous pores distributed at equal intervals over the whole surface of the capsule, and since a communication between the intra- and extracapsular sarcode takes place through these, the radiate structure of the endoplasm may be readily explained as due to the influence of radial currents which take place continuously or intermittently in the endoplasm. This radiate structure is most obvious when the endoplasm contains no secondary products or only an insignificant amount of these, and thus appears colourless and almost homogeneous, or only finely granular. Under these circumstances, an optical section of the central capsule usually reveals a distinct radial striation; numerous narrow, straight, dark streaks alternating regularly with still narrower clear ones; the latter consist of homogeneous, the former of more or less granular protoplasm (Pl. 20, fig. 1a). Often there may be distinguished in each darker streak a single straight row of strongly refracting (fat?) granules, sometimes several such rows. Occasionally the whole endoplasm becomes divided up into a number of large "radial wedges," club-shaped, conical or pyramidal masses of granular protoplasm, separated by clear divisions of hyaline plasma (e.g., in Actissa radiata, p. 14, where in the optical section of the central capsule, between the membrane and the nucleus, twenty-five dark radial wedges of equal size were separated by thick clear partitions of hyaline protoplasm). In the majority of the Spumellaria this radial striation is partially or entirely concealed by the formation of pigment or of other products. Very often it is only visible in the cortical layer, which lies immediately below the capsule-membrane (Pl. 1, figs. 1, 3). The remarkable "centripetal cones" which characterise the Thalassicollid genus Physematium, and were formerly described as "centripetal cell-groups," are probably a special development of these cortical radial wedges; they are conical cortical bodies, regularly distributed on the inner surface of the membrane of the central capsule, and disposed with the apex turned towards the centre (see note B). More rarely than in the cortical layer, a similar radial structure is to be found in the innermost medullary layer immediately surrounding the nucleus. Here the endoplasm sometimes breaks up into fine radial threads, which are anatomically separable and hang down from the free nucleus as thin processes (see note C). In some cases it is also possible to isolate radial rods from the cortical layer of teased out central capsules.

A. The radial structure of the endoplasm was first described in my Monograph (1862, p. 74), though R. Hertwig (1879, p. 112) was the first to indicate its typical significance in the case of the Peripylea, and to demonstrate its causal relation with the radial currents in the central capsule of this legion. More recent investigations have led me to the conviction that this phenomenon is more widespread, and often more strongly developed, than was formerly imagined, and that it is probably one of the typical characters of all Spumellaria (at least of the Monozoa).

B. The centripetal cones of Physematium, which have hitherto been known only in these colossal Thalassosphærida, were fully described in my Monograph under the name "conical centripetal cell-groups"; by their first discoverer, A. Schneider (L. N. 13), they were termed "nests," and compared with the "nests" (central capsules) of the Polycyttaria. In the Physematium mülleri of the Mediterranean (hitherto only observed by Schneider and myself at Messina) it appeared as though each centripetal cone were composed of a group of from three to nine (usually four or five) slender wedge-shaped cells, whose common centripetal apex was produced into a radial thread of sarcode (L. N. 16, p. 258, Taf. iii. fig. 7). Since then (1866) I have observed at Lanzerote, in the Canary Islands, a nearly related form, which I take to be Physematium atlanticum, Meyen. In this, however, the "centripetal cell-groups" were wanting, and the whole cortical layer of the endoplasm was cleft into numerous radial portions, each enclosing a nucleus (probably the mother-cells of flagellate spores, see p. 35).

C. The radial fibres of the medullary endoplasm which cling to an extracted nucleus have been observed by Hertwig in certain Sphæroidea (Diplosphæra, Arachnosphæra) (L. N. 33, p. 40).

78. The Endoplasm of the Actipylea.—The intracapsular protoplasm of the Acantharia or Actipylea is often distinguished by a partial or complete radial arrangement like that of the Peripylea, but differing in the number, size, form, and distribution of the radial portions into which the endoplasm is differentiated. For since the pores of the capsule membrane are distributed at equal distances all over the surface in the Spumellaria, whilst in the Acantharia they are arranged in definite groups, and since the number and arrangement of the pores has a direct influence upon the internal currents of the endoplasm, it follows that the radial structure in the latter legion must be very different from that in the former. In addition to this there must not be forgotten the important influence which the early centrogenous formation of the skeletal rods exercises upon the disposition and growth of the intracapsular structures. Hence the endoplasm of the Acantharia does not separate into innumerable thin, closely packed radial wedges or cortical radial rods, but into a small number of large pyramidal portions between which run the radially disposed heterogeneous portions of the contents of the capsule, viz., the radial bars of acanthin and the peculiar intracapsular "axial threads." As a direct consequence of the regular disposition of these heterogeneous radial portions, which is often characteristic of the various families of the Acantharia, a corresponding differentiation of the endoplasm is brought about; it divides into a number of conical or pyramidal portions (radial pyramids), whose bases rest upon the capsule-membrane and whose apices are directed towards the centre of {xlviii}the capsule (the central star of the skeleton). These radial pyramids are, however, but rarely visible, being usually more or less concealed by a dark pigment.

The differentiations of the endoplasm in the central capsule of the Actipylea have been but little investigated, but they appear to vary somewhat in the different groups of this legion. In all Acantharia in which the twenty radial bars are regularly arranged according to the Müllerian law (see p. 717) and in which axial threads constant in number and disposition run between them from the central star to the capsule-membrane, it obviously follows that the endoplasm must be divided into more or less distinct radial pyramids, and this must the case whether these take the form of continuous tracts or of actually separable portions. The regular polygonal figures, often seen on the surface of the central capsule (with special distinctness in Acanthometron elasticum and Acanthometron pellucidum) separated by a network of granular threads, are the bases of such radial pyramids (see Hertwig, L. N. 43, p. 12, Taf. i. figs. 1-7).

79. The Endoplasm of the Monopylea.—The intracapsular protoplasm of the Nassellaria or Monopylea is distinguished from that of any of the other three legions by the development of a quite peculiar fibrillar structure, the axial "pseudopodial cone," which may shortly be termed the "podoconus" (foot-cone). Since this is in direct correlation with the peculiar structure of the capsular opening, the large "porochora," which is situated at the basal pole of the main axis, it is quite as characteristic of the legion as the latter itself (see note A). The podoconus is primitively a vertical regular cone whose circular base occupies the horizontal porochora or "basal porous area" of the central capsule, while its vertical axis coincides with that of the latter. The apex of the cone, usually somewhat rounded off, is therefore directed towards the aboral or apical pole of the central capsule and separated from it by a larger or smaller interval. In this interval the nucleus originally lies (as in Pl. 51, fig. 13; Pl. 98, fig. 13); but it is usually displaced subsequently and lies excentrically. The cone is of very variable height; on an average its vertical height is about equal to the diameter of its horizontal base; these dimensions are, however, dependent upon the form of the central capsule; the height being greater in slender ovoid or conical capsules, and less in depressed sphæroidal or discoidal ones, than the diameter of the base. The podoconus consists of differentiated endoplasm, which becomes more deeply stained by carmine and offers greater resistance to solvents than the surrounding finely granular protoplasm. The apex, especially, becomes very intensely stained. It always exhibits a very characteristic fine but distinct striation, numerous straight radial lines diverging from the apex of the cone towards the base. The number of these striæ appears to correspond with that of the vertical rods in the porochora, and each of these latter stands apparently in direct communication with the basal end of an apical stria (§ 59). These threads are probably differentiated constant contractile threads of endoplasm, or even myophanes, comparable with the contractile cortical threads of the Cannopylea and the permanent axial threads of the Actipylea. The numerous modifications, {xlix}undergone by the form and contents of the central capsule in the different groups of Monopylea, especially those due to the formation of the skeleton, are not without influence upon the podoconus. The most important divergencies from the above described primary form are the following:—(1) The vertical axial cone becomes oblique, its axis inclining in the sagittal plane and approaching either the dorsal or the ventral wall of the capsule; the cause of this appears to be usually the excentric development of the growing nucleus or the formation of a large oil-globule. (2) The smooth mantle of the podoconus becomes divided by three longitudinal furrows into three equal prominent ridges, which correspond to three circular lobes in the porochora; the cause of this basal triradial lobular formation lies probably in the triradial development of the skeleton in many Nassellaria or in the cortinar structure of the collar septum. (3) The simple podoconus splits into three or four elongated lobes, which eventually become almost completely separated and correspond to the lobes of the central capsule, in the axial wall of which they lie as longitudinally striated bands. The behaviour of these bands justifies the hypothesis that the podoconus is a muscular differentiated portion of the endoplasm and is composed of myophane fibrillæ, whose contraction determines the opening of the central capsule.

A. The podoconus of the Monopylea was first described by R. Hertwig in 1879, and recognised as a characteristic component of the central capsule in the most various groups of this legion (in Plectoidea, Stephoidea, Spyroidea, and Cyrtoidea; see his figures, loc. cit., Taf. vii., viii., and the description, pp. 71, 73, 83, 106). Hertwig called it the "pseudopodial cone," and regarded it as a conical process of the capsule-membrane, which is developed from this latter and projects from the porous area into the interior of the central capsule; "it is penetrated by fine canals which arise at the apex of the cone, diverge towards the base, and terminate there in the rods of the pseudopodial area. The intracapsular protoplasm penetrates at the apex of the pseudopodial cone into its fine canals, runs along them and emerges from the rods of the porous area in the form of slender threads" (loc. cit., p. 19). I cannot agree with this view of Hertwig, although I have been able to confirm the accuracy of his description by my own observations upon numerous excellently stained and preserved preparations in the Challenger collection. As I have proved by numerous teased out preparations, and as Hertwig himself correctly states, "the cone is more readily detached from the membrane than from the protoplasm, when the capsule is teased" (loc. cit., p. 73). Hence I regard the podoconus not as a differentiated portion of the capsule-membrane but as endoplasm, and believe that it is composed of myophanes or "contractile muscular fibrils" in the same manner as the cortical layer of the Cannopylea. Probably the contraction of these fibrils serves to raise the opercular rods and hence to allow the exit of the endoplasm through the pores which lie between these opercular rhabdillae (compare § 59).

80. The Endoplasm of the Cannopylea.—The intracapsular protoplasm of the Phæodaria or Cannopylea is distinguished from that of the other three legions by several characteristic peculiarities, which are very important, since they stand in causal relation to the typical structure of the capsule-membrane and in particular of its {l}remarkable aperture. In the case of many and perhaps of all Phæodaria the endoplasm is differentiated into a granular medullary and a thin fibrillar cortical layer, the former of which usually encloses numerous small vacuoles, while the latter contains muscular fibrillæ. In the voluminous central capsule of large Phæodaria the whole cortical layer of the endoplasm, which lies immediately below the delicate inner capsule-membrane, sometimes appears delicately and regularly striated, and most distinctly so under the apertures, towards the centre of each of which the dark striæ are radially directed (see note A, below). These striæ are probably contractile muscular fibrillæ; or "myophanes," by whose contraction the openings are voluntarily widened. In the Tripylea this fibrillar star is much more strongly developed under the astropyle (the main opening) than under the parapylæ (or accessory openings); and probably the peculiar radial structure of the operculum of the former is due to the stronger development of these radial fibrils (being their impression). In many Phæodaria, indeed, the fine myophane fibrils are only visible under the apertures, whilst in others they form a continuous fibrillar cortical layer on the whole inner surface of the inner capsule-membrane; the fine fibrillæ run meridionally from one pole of the main axis to the other; perhaps the whole central capsule may change its form in consequence of their contractions. The medullary portion of the endoplasm, which lies below this thin cortical layer, is usually finely granular in the Phæodaria, and permeated by numerous spherical vacuoles, which are noteworthy from their equal size and regular distribution. Each clear vacuole usually contains a dark shining fat-granule, more rarely a group of such granules (see note B). Compare § 60, and Pl. 101, figs. 1-3; Pl. 104, figs. 1, 2; Pl. 111, fig. 2; Pl. 128, fig. 2, &c.

A. The fine fibrillæ in the cortical layer of the endoplasm were first described by Hertwig in 1879 (L. N. 33, p. 98, Taf x. figs. 6-10). He found them, however, only below the three openings in the capsule of the Tripylea, where they form three stellate groups of fibrils. I find them very clearly shown, and with especial distinctness, under the astropyle in most Phæodaria of which I have had the opportunity of examining well-stained and preserved central capsules. In many cases, also, the striation is not confined to the apertures, but spreads over the whole cortical layer. Perhaps this constitutes in all Phæodaria a thin myophane-sheet, whose contractile fibrils run from one pole of the main axis to the other and cause by their contraction changes in the form of the spheroidal central capsule.

B. The granular medullary portion of the endoplasm of the Phæodaria, with its numerous clear spherical vacuoles, was first described in my Monograph (1862), in the case of Aulacantha (p. 263), Aulosphæra (p. 359), and Cœlodendrum (p. 361) as a "finely granular, mucous substance (intracapsular sarcode), packed more or less closely with clear spherical vesicles from 0.005 to 0.015 mm. in diameter, each of which contains one or two, rarely three, dark shining granules." That these clear spheres are true vacuoles was first clearly proved by Hertwig (L. N. 33, p. 98). As a rule all the vacuoles of the same central capsule are of equal size (generally from 0.008 to 0.012 mm. in diameter), and are distributed at equal intervals throughout the finely granular endoplasm.

Chapter III.—THE EXTRACAPSULUM.

(§§ 81-100).

81. The Components of the Extracapsulum.—The extracapsulum or extracapsular malacoma, under which name are included all those parts of the soft body which lie outside the central capsule, consists of the following constant, and important constituents:—(1) The calymma or extracapsular jelly-veil; (2) the sarcomatrix or layer of exoplasm immediately surrounding the membrane of the central capsule; (3) the sarcodictyum or network of exoplasm, covering the surface of the calymma; (4) the pseudopodia or radial fibres of exoplasm, which may again be subdivided into intracalymmar pseudopodia, uniting the sarcomatrix and sarcodictyum, and extracalymmar pseudopodia, radiating freely into the water outside the calymma.

82. The Calymma.—The calymma or extracapsular jelly-veil of the Radiolaria is always the most voluminous portion of the extracapsulum, and in spite of its simple structureless constitution is of great morphological and physiological importance. In all Radiolaria this gelatinous mantle completely surrounds the central capsule, but is separated from its outer surface by a continuous, though thin, layer of exoplasm, the sarcomatrix. The pseudopodia radiating from the latter pierce the calymma, form the sarcodictyum at its surface, and radiate from its nodal points freely into the surrounding water. The calymma is rarely visible in living freshly captured Radiolaria, examined in sea-water, for its gelatinous substance is perfectly hyaline, colourless and pellucid, and possesses the same refractive index as sea-water; but when the object is removed from this fluid and transferred to carmine solution or some other colouring matter, the extent and figure of the calymma become apparent, for the staining fluid does not at first penetrate into the gelatinous material. When this has taken place, however (after a longer or shorter time), and the gelatinous material has become coloured, its form and size may be observed by the converse experiment; the object is transferred once more to water and the outlines of the calymma become as clear as those of the central capsule. The same is the case with dead specimens in which the sticky surface of the calymma has become covered with dust.

The jelly-veil of the Radiolaria was recognised even by the earliest observers of the group, Meyen (1834), and Huxley (1851), and compared with that of the Palmellaria; the former noticed it in Physematium and Sphærozoum (L. N. 1, p. 283), and the latter in Thalassicolla and Collosphæra (L. N. 5, p. 433). In all these Spumellaria, both in the monozootic Thalassicolla and in the polyzootic Sphærozoum and Collosphæra, the calymma is very voluminous and filled with large alveoli. Meyen called them "muco-gelatinous masses, in the interior of which are contained small equal-sized vesicles"; Huxley likewise found clear vesicles in the jelly and compared them with Dujardin's vacuoles. Johannes Müller observed the jelly-veil in many different Radiolaria, in particular in the Acanthometra, first discovered by him, but erroneously believed that it only originated {lii}after death by liquefaction of the sarcode (L. N. 12, p. 6). This mistake is, however, easy to understand, since in living Radiolaria the calymma is usually invisible on account of its perfect transparency, whilst in dead specimens it is usually quite distinct on account of the dust clinging to its adhesive surface. I myself believed that the formation of the voluminous hyaline jelly-veil was only partially due to liquefaction after death, but that it was to some extent present in the living organism and that it might vanish and subsequently reappear by means of imbibition (L. N. 16, pp. 109, 110). R. Hertwig was the first to demonstrate, in 1879, that the jelly-veil is constantly present in living Radiolaria, that it forms the basis of the extracapsular malacoma and surrounds the central capsule as a second protective sheath (L. N. 33, p. 114).

83. The Structure of the Calymma.—The extracapsular jelly-veil appears structureless in most Radiolaria, inasmuch as it represents a homogeneous pellucid excretion of the exoplasm and contains neither fibres nor other formed structures. In some groups, however, definite structural characters become secondarily developed. The most common and striking of these is the formation of alveoles, which takes place in the extracapsulum (see § 86). In consequence of this the calymma assumes a remarkable frothy consistency and appears to be composed of large, clear, thin-walled vesicles; this is especially the case in the Collodaria (Colloidea, Pls. 1, 3, and Beloidea, Pls. 2, 4), and in many large Phæodaria, especially among the Phæocystina (Phæodinida and Cannorrhaphida, Pl. 101, and Aulacanthida, Pls. 102-104). More rarely the calymma is not permeated by vacuoles, but there appear in it fine striæ parallel to the surface as though it were composed of thin concentric laminæ like an onion; perhaps these are the expressions of a different quantity of water in the various layers. In the calymma of many Radiolaria thin, straight, radial lines are to be seen, which are probably pseudopodia, and not to be attributed to any structural modification, or they may be slender canals which serve for the exit of the pseudopodia. On the outer surface of the calymma of different Radiolaria, and especially in the Acantharia, a peculiar network of fibres is to be found, composed of polygonal meshes, like elastic fibres, probably due to a local thickening of the jelly. These polygonal meshes are often very regularly distributed between the radial spines of the Acanthometra, and stand in a definite relation to them. The fibres which form the meshes are often rather strong, resembling elastic fibres, as above-mentioned, and either simple or composed of bundles of very fine fibrillæ (L. N. 33, p. 15, Taf. i. fig. 1, Taf. ii. fig. 4).

84. The Consistency of the Calymma.—The gelatinous material of which the calymma of the Radiolaria consists is a pellucid mass, rich in water and usually quite hyaline and structureless; its consistency is very variable. In the majority of the Radiolaria it may perhaps be about equal to that of the jelly which composes the umbrella of most Medusæ; but as in these latter it may vary between very wide extremes, constituting on the one hand a very soft jelly-mantle, offering but little {liii}resistance to mechanical influences and almost disintegrating under the eyes of the observer, and on the other hand forming a firm gelatinous shell, comparable to cartilage in hardness, elasticity, and power of mechanical resistance. In many Radiolaria of large dimensions with an alveolar calymma (especially in numerous Collodaria and Phæodaria) this may be split by means of dissecting needles and the central capsule extracted like the stone from a cherry, and then it is easy to ascertain that the firmness and elasticity of this jelly-veil are not less than those of a cherry. The different degrees of consistency in the various Radiolaria may be dependent either upon the relative amount of water which they contain, or upon qualitative or quantitative variations in the organic substance of which the jelly consists. Great importance is to be attached to the considerable consistency of the calymma, because it furnishes the indispensable groundwork for the deposition of many parts of the skeleton and particularly of the lattice-shells.

85. The Primary and Secondary Calymma.—In most Radiolaria the external form and volume of the calymma are different at different stages of growth, and this difference is mainly dependent upon the development of the skeleton. Hence it is advisable to distinguish in general the primary from the secondary calymma. The primary calymma is in the great majority of Radiolaria a perfect sphere, in the middle of which lies the concentric central capsule; on the surface of this gelatinous plate the primary spherical lattice-shell is secreted in most Spumellaria and Acanthophracta, as well as in those Phæodaria which possess a spherical shell; in the remaining Phæodaria also and in the Nassellaria, where the lattice-shell is not spherical but monaxon, it is secreted on the surface of the primary calymma. This takes place at a definite time, very important in the development of the Radiolarian, which for the sake of brevity we shall term the "lorication-period." Since the firm surface of the primary calymma furnishes the necessary foundation for the deposition of the primary lattice-shell, it is of the greatest mechanical significance in all shell-bearing Radiolaria. The secondary calymma arises only after the lorication-period by further growth of the primitive jelly-mantle and in the fully developed Radiolarian usually encloses wholly or partially the external parts of the skeleton, in consequence of which it assumes the most various forms. Very often the secondary calymma is polyhedral, being stretched between the radial spines of the skeleton, the distal ends of the latter then forming the fixed points of the gelatinous polyhedron.

86. The Extracapsular Vacuoles and Alveoles.—The calymma of the Radiolaria usually appears completely homogeneous and hyaline without any structure; sometimes it encloses numerous clear vesicles, vacuoles or alveoles, and then assumes a frothy appearance, the expression of a more or less distinct alveolar structure. {liv}The clear vesicles to which this is due are either spherical, or polyhedral from mutual pressure, and like the similar ones in the central capsule may be divided into membraneless vacuoles and vesicular alveoles. The vacuoles are simple drops of fluid, without a special envelope, and immediately surrounded by the gelatinous substance of the calymma, in which they appear as simple cavities. The alveoles on the contrary are true vesicles, with a thin envelope, which encloses a drop of fluid or a globule of jelly; in the latter case its contents are different in refracting power and amount of contained water from the substance of the surrounding calymma. A sharp boundary between the membraneless vacuoles and the vesicular alveoles cannot be drawn in the case of the extracapsular hyaline spheres any more than in the intracapsular; the envelope of the alveoles is sometimes very distinct and even anatomically separable, whilst at other times it is very thin and scarcely recognisable; it may occasionally arise and disappear within a very short time (see note A). There is no doubt that in the calymma as in the central capsule the vesicular alveoles are secondary products, which have arisen from the vacuoles by the secretion of an enveloping membrane. This membrane is either a delicate sheath of exoplasm, or a firmer and more resistant skin, distinct from the exoplasm, and probably an excretion from it (e.g., Pl. 4, figs. 2, 3). In many cases the outer surface even of the vacuoles is covered by a network of pseudopodia, which form a sarcoplegma similar to a fenestrated alveolar membrane. The colourless pellucid fluid in the vacuoles and alveoles is usually simple sea-water, more rarely it contains a small quantity of albumen ("albumen-spheres") or jelly ("gelatinous spheres"). The size of these spheres is very variable. Quite small vacuoles may be found in the calymma of many Radiolaria. Large vacuoles, on the other hand, producing the appearance of an alveolar structure, are confined to but few groups, to a part of the Spumellaria (Colloidea, Beloidea, and a few Sphæroidea), and to the Phæocystina (Phæodaria with incomplete skeleton); besides they occur only rarely in individual genera, e.g., Nassella among the skeletonless Nassellaria. Since the volume of the calymma is much increased by the development of vacuoles, and the power of mechanical resistance is at the same time much increased, the fact is explained that the vacuoles occur mainly in Radiolaria which have no skeleton or only an incomplete one (see note B). Among the monozootic Collodaria the alveolar structure is especially well developed in the following genera; Thalassicolla (Pl. 1, figs. 4, 5), Thalassophysa, Thalassoplancta, Lampoxanthium (Pl. 2, figs. 1, 2); among the Phæodaria in most genera of the Phæodinida, Cannorrhaphida and Aulacanthida (Pls. 101-104), and probably also in other voluminous Phæodaria (e.g., Phæosphæria). The alveoles or vacuoles in the calymma of these large Radiolaria lie usually in several layers, one above another, and increase in size from within outwards. The Polycyttaria or social Radiolaria (the three families Collozoida, Sphærozoida and Collosphærida) without exception have an alveolar structure, and the special form of {lv}their colonies or cœnobia is to a great extent determined by the development, number, size and arrangement of the alveoles in their calymma (compare Pls. 3-8). In these cases there is not unfrequently developed a large central alveole (see note C) whose thickened wall encloses a globe of jelly and serves as the central support of the whole colony (Pl. 5, fig. 1). Still more striking, however, is the arrangement of certain Polycyttaria, where each individual of the colony (or each central capsule with its calymma) is enclosed in a large alveole, whose firm wall often attains considerable thickness (Pl. 4, figs. 2, 3). The whole colony then appears as an aggregate of numerous cells, each of which possesses two envelopes, the inner central capsule and the outer alveolar membrane; between these lies in the Collosphærida the siliceous lattice-shell (Pl. 6, fig. 2). These pericapsular alveoles may be regarded as an outer cell-wall more correctly than the membrane of the central capsule itself, but the arrangement may also be compared to the temporary encystation of other Protista (see note D).

A. The extracapsular vacuoles in the calymma were first observed in 1851 by Huxley, in Thalassicolla and Sphærozoum, and compared with Dujardin's sarcode vacuoles (L. N. 5). Afterwards J. Müller noticed that generally these "large clear vesicles are covered by a fine membrane," and hence he called them "alveoles" (L. N. 12, pp. 3, 7, &c.). In my Monograph I have described them more in detail as "extracapsular alveoles" (1862, p. 88, Tafs. i.-iii. xxxii.-xxxv.). Ever since then the point has been debated whether these clear spaces are simple vacuoles in the sense of Huxley or vesicular alveoles as stated by J. Müller. This contention is unnecessary, for both varieties are present, and often no sharp line can be drawn between them. R. Hertwig has recently come to the conclusion that they are as a rule "membraneless vacuoles," but that they "sometimes become surrounded by a special envelope" (L. N. 33, p. 31). He even succeeded "in extracting from a Collosphæra the large vesicle which lies in the centre of many colonies and removing its covering of central capsules and jelly."

B. The mechanical importance of the alveolar structure, which certainly increases the elasticity and mechanical resistance of the voluminous calymma, has not yet been sufficiently realised; in the case of those Radiolaria which have no skeleton, or at all events no lattice-shell, it may take the place of this as a protective envelope. Furthermore, by taking in and giving out water it may discharge a hydrostatic function, causing the organism to rise or sink in the water.

C. The large central alveole found in the colonies of many Polycyttaria (especially Collosphærida) and first described in my Monograph (Taf. xxxiv. fig. 1), has since then been observed by Hertwig, Bütschli, and other investigators, and recognised as the "central support of the whole colony, surrounded by a delicate membrane" (compare L. N. 33, p. 31, and L. N. 41, p. 436). In a colony of Trypanosphæra transformata (Pl. 5, fig. 1), which I observed living while in Ceylon in 1881, the membrane of the large central alveole was surrounded by a firm network of sarcoplegma, and could be mechanically isolated from the central jelly-sphere which it enclosed.

D. The pericapsular alveoles, figured in Pl. 4, figs. 2, 3, from a Sphærozoum, and in Pl. 6, fig. 2, from a Siphonosphæra, were very well preserved in some preparations in the Challenger collection; perhaps their development coincides with the formation of spores, and may be regarded as an encystation.

87. The Extracapsular Fat-Globules.—Fat is probably as widely distributed in the exoplasm as in the endoplasm of the Radiolaria; a considerable proportion of the small, dark, highly refractive granules appear to consist of fat; most likely they are for the most part direct products of metastasis. These widely-spread granules, which are sometimes coloured, and which by their passive motion produce the phenomenon of granular circulation in the exoplasm, are not the only fatty structures in the extracapsulum; larger globules sometimes occur. In certain large Collodaria (e.g., Thalassicolla melacapsa, Pl. 1, fig. 5; Thalassophysa sanguinolenta, &c.) radial series of oil-globules are found in the calymma, especially in its proximal portion; in others the central capsule is surrounded by a layer of oil-globules (situated in the sarcomatrix). In the Phæodaria a part of the phæodium appears to consist of fat-globules.

88. The Extracapsular Pigment.—The formation of colouring matters in the extracapsulum is on the whole rare in the Radiolaria, apart from the "yellow cells" (see § 91) and from the peculiar phæodium of the Phæodaria, which will be separately treated of in the next paragraph. Considerable masses of extracapsular pigment, usually black or blue, rarely brown or red, are found only in a few Radiolaria belonging to the first three legions; most often in the Spumellaria. Some large Collodaria, e.g., the common Thalassicolla nucleata and a few other species of this genus (Pl. 1, fig. 4), are characterised by a rich deposit of black or blue pigment in the sarcomatrix and in the proximal portion of the calymma. Brown pigment is deposited in the calymma of many Sphæroidea and Discoidea, as well as of some Nassellaria (Cystidium, Tridictyopus, &c.). In a part of the Acantharia red pigment granules are thickly strewn in the sarcoplegma and pass along the free pseudopodia, as for example in Actinelius purpureus and Acanthostaurus purpurascens. The composition and significance of these extracapsular pigments are not completely known.

On the extracapsular pigment of Thalassicolla nucleata, compare my Monograph, pp. 87, 251. On the red extracapsular pigment-granules of the Acantharia, see L. N. 19, pp. 345, 364, &c.

89. The Phæodium of the Phæodaria.—The Phæodaria, which are distinguished from the other three legions of Radiolaria by the double membrane of the central capsule, and the peculiar structure of the main-opening (astropyle), differ also in other points, the most important of which is the constant presence of a voluminous mass of extracapsular pigment. This possesses a peculiar constitution and special significance, and is not to be confounded with the extracapsular pigment-granules of other Radiolaria (e.g., Thalassicolla), and hence it has been distinguished by the name "Phæodium," and the individual granules which compose it as "Phæodella" (see note A). The phæodium is always excentric in position relatively to the central capsule, of which it {lvii}surrounds the oral half in the form of a voluminous concavo-convex cap, hiding the astropyle at its basal pole so completely that the latter is rarely visible until the phæodium has been removed (Pls. 99-104; Pl. 115, fig. 8; Pl. 123, &c.). The central capsule is generally almost completely embedded in the phæodium, so that only its aboral pole (with the two parapylæ in the Tripylea) projects. In the Phæogromia, in which the lattice-shell possesses a special opening and the central capsule lies excentrically in the aboral position of its interior, the phæodium occupies the oral aspect, between the capsule and the aperture (Pls. 99, 100, 118-120, &c.). In the peculiar family Cœlographida (Pls. 126-128) a special receptacle (galea with its rhinocanna) for the phæodium is developed outside the bivalve shell, within which the central capsule lies. The proboscis, which in all Phæodaria arises from the centre of the astropyle, lies in the vertical axis of the phæodium and is entirely surrounded by it. The volume of the phæodium in the majority of the Phæodaria may be said to be about as great as that of the central capsule, although in some species it is considerably larger. Its colour is always dark, usually between green and brown, commonly olive-green or blackish-brown, rarely reddish-brown or black. The phæodellæ or pigment-granules which make up the greater part of the phæodium (see note B) are irregular in form and unequal in size and show no definite structure; usually they are spherical or ellipsoidal, and exhibit fine parallel striæ which run transversely or obliquely (Pl. 101, fig. 3, 6, 10; Pl. 103, fig. 1, &c.). Between the larger granules is usually found a thick dust-like mass of innumerable very small grains. The physiological significance of this peculiar phæodium is still unknown, but is probably considerable, judging from its large size and especially from its constant topographical relation to the astropyle; the latter consideration would lead to the supposition that it plays an important part in the nutrition and metastasis of the Phæodaria (see note C).

A. The phæodium of Aulacantha, Thalassoplancta, and Cœlodendrum was first described in 1862, in my Monograph, as an excentric extracapsular mass of pigment of blackish-brown or olive-green colour (pp. 87, 262, 264, 361, Taf. ii. iii. xxxii.). Since then John Murray, who investigated many living Phæodaria during the Challenger expedition, has shown its general distribution in this legion (Proc. Roy. Soc. Lond., vol. xxiv. p. 536, 1876). From the constancy of its presence I gave the legion the name Phæodaria in 1879 (L. N. 34).

B. With regard to the special composition of the phæodium and the constitution of the phæodellæ, see the general description of the Phæodaria, pp. 1533-1537.

C. Perhaps the phæodellæ are to some extent symbiontes with the Phæodaria; the xanthellæ present in most other Radiolaria are absent in this legion.

90. The Extracapsular Xanthellæ.—Xanthellæ or Zooxanthellæ, symbiotic "yellow cells," are very commonly found in the extracapsulum of the Radiolaria, especially in many Spumellaria and Nassellaria; whilst in the Acantharia similar yellow cells usually only occur within the central capsule, and in the Phæodaria their {lviii}presence has not been certainly demonstrated. The extracapsular Xanthellæ are found most abundantly in the Collodaria, both in the monozootic Thalassicollida and in the polyzootic Sphærozoida. They occur in smaller numbers in the Sphærellaria, and in many divisions of the latter they seem to be entirely absent. Also it sometimes happens that, though present in large numbers in some Spumellaria, they are entirely absent in others nearly related to them; indeed, this has also been observed in the case of different individuals of the same species. This fact alone is sufficient to show that the Xanthellæ are not an integral part of the Radiolarian organism (as was formerly believed) but parasites or more correctly symbiontes, which live as inhabitants of the calymma. More recent investigations have shown, that besides the yellow pigment-grains they contain starch or an amyloid substance, that is to say, vegetable reserve materials, that their thin envelope contains cellulose, and that their yellow colouring-matter resembles chlorophyll and is related to that of the Diatomaceæ ("Diatomin"). Hence they are now generally regarded as unicellular Algæ, nearly related to those which occur as symbiontes in other marine animals (Exuviella, &c.). The starch, which they develop with the formation of oxygen, may serve as nutriment to the Radiolaria, while the carbonic acid yielded by the latter is also beneficial to the Xanthellæ. The form of the Xanthellæ is usually spherical and elliptical, often also sphæroidal or discoidal. Their diameter is usually between 0.008 and 0.012 mm., rarely more or less. The differences exhibited by Xanthellæ which live in different groups of Radiolaria demand further investigation, which will perhaps lead to the establishment of several species of the genus Zooxanthella. At present Zooxanthella extracapsularis, in the calymma of Spumellaria and Nassellaria, may be clearly distinguished from Zooxanthella intracapsularis, in the central capsule of the Acantharia.

The "yellow cells" were first described in 1851 by Huxley, in the Collodaria, and afterwards by J. Müller (1858) in many Spumellaria and Nassellaria. In my Monograph (1862, pp. 84-87) I gave a detailed account of their structure and increase by division, and laid special emphasis on the fact that they are the only elements in the Radiolarian organism which "are undoubtedly cells in the strict histological sense of the word." Afterwards, in my Beiträge zur Plastiden-Theorie, I showed the constant presence of "starch in the yellow cells of the Radiolaria" (1870, L. N. 21). Shortly afterwards Cienkowski observed that the yellow cells live independently and reproduce themselves after the death of the Radiolaria, and in consequence first put forth the hypothesis that they do not belong to the Radiolarian organism, but that they are unicellular Algæ parasitic upon it (1871, L. N. 22). This view was ten years later more fully established by Karl Brandt, and elucidated by comparison with the symbiosis of the gonidia of Algæ, and the hyphæ of Fungi in the formation of Lichens, which had in the meantime become known (1881, L. N. 38). Brandt gave this unicellular yellow Alga the name Zooxanthella nutricola, and afterwards gave fuller details regarding its remarkable vital relations (L. N. 39). Patrick Geddes, who named it Philozoon, supplemented this account and showed experimentally that it gives off oxygen under the influence of sun-light (1882, L. N. 42, 43). In consequence {lix}of this there is no doubt that all Xanthellæ (the Zooxanthella extracapsularis of Spumellaria and Nassellaria, and the Zooxanthella intracapsularis of the Acantharia, and possibly also the Zooxanthella phæodaris of the Phæodaria) do not originally belong to the Radiolarian organism, as was believed up to the time of Cienkowski, but penetrate actively into it from without, or are taken in passively by means of the pseudopodia. In any case their symbiosis, when they are associated with the Radiolarian cell in large numbers, may be of great advantage to both parties, since the metastasis of the Xanthella is vegetable, that of the Radiolarian animal in character. In any case their symbiosis is to a large extent accidental, by no means as necessary as in the case of the Lichens. See on these points in addition to Brandt and Geddes (loc. cit.) also Geza Enz, Das Consortial-Verhältniss von Algen und Thieren, Biol. Centralbl., Bd. ii. No. 15, 1883, Oskar Hertwig, Die Symbiose oder das Genossenschaftsleben im Thierreich, Jena, 1883, and Bütschli, Die Radiolarien, in Bronn's Klass. u. Ord. d. Thierreichs, 1882 (L. N. 41, pp. 456-462).

91. The Exoplasm or Extracapsular Protoplasm.—The extracapsular protoplasm, which may be shortly termed the "exoplasm" (or ectosarc), is primitively in all Radiolaria (and especially in their earliest development stages) the only important constituent of the extracapsulum, besides the calymma. Although the extracapsular and intracapsular protoplasm of the Radiolaria are everywhere in direct communication, and although the openings in the membrane of the central capsule bring about an interchange between them, still the two portions of sarcode show certain constant and characteristic differences, which are due to the physiological division of labour between the central and peripheral parts of the body and their corresponding morphological differentiation. The extracapsular, like the intracapsular, protoplasm is originally homogeneous, but may afterwards become differentiated in various ways, producing the special constituents of the extracapsulum. Such "external protoplasmic products" are vacuoles, pigment-bodies, &c. More important, however, are the topographically different sections into which the exoplasm may be divided according to its relations to the central capsule and the calymma. In this respect the following parts may be generally distinguished—(1) the Sarcomatrix, or fundamental layer of the exoplasm, which surrounds the central capsule as a continuous sheath of sarcode and separates it from the calymma; (2) the Sarcoplegma, an irregular network of the exoplasm, which spreads throughout the gelatinous material of the calymma; (3) the Sarcodictyum or network of sarcode on the outer surface of the calymma; and (4) the Pseudopodia, which project outwards from the latter and radiate into the water.

92. The Sarcomatrix.—The sarcomatrix, being "the fundamental layer of the pseudopodia" (or "matrix of the exoplasm"), constitutes the proximal innermost section of the extracapsular sarcode, and in all Radiolaria forms a thin continuous mucous layer, which covers the whole outer surface of the central capsule and separates it from the surrounding calymma (see note A, below). The sarcomatrix communicates internally {lx}through the openings of the central capsule with the endoplasm, whilst externally the pseudopodia or mucous threads arise from it, which by their union form the sarcoplegma. The sarcomatrix is only interrupted in the Spumellaria and Acantharia by those parts of the skeleton which perforate the membrane of the central capsule. In all Nassellaria and Phæodaria, as in the Collodaria, it appears as a perfectly continuous sarcode-envelope of the central capsule. Its thickness is variable; in general it is most strongly developed in the Spumellaria and Phæodaria, less so in the Nassellaria, and is thinnest in the Acantharia. The thickness seems, however, to vary even in one and the same individual, the difference depending partly upon the different stages of development and partly upon nutritional conditions. After abundant inception of nutriment the thin protoplasmic layer of the matrix is thickened and turbid, rich in granules and irregular masses, which are probably due to enclosed but only half-digested food; xanthellæ also, as well as foreign bodies taken up with the nutriment, such as frustules of Diatoms and shells of smaller Radiolaria, and of pelagic infusoria, larvæ, &c., are often, especially in large individuals, aggregated in considerable quantities in the matrix. After long fasting, on the contrary, this is poor in these enclosed bodies and in granules; it then forms a thin colourless more or less hyaline mucous coating to the central capsule. From a physiological standpoint the sarcomatrix is to be regarded as the central organ of the extracapsulum, and as of pre-eminent significance. Probably it is not only the most important organ for the nutrition of the Radiolaria (especially for digestion and assimilation in particular), but perhaps is also the central organ of perception. On the other hand the sarcomatrix belongs to those components of the Radiolarian organism which take no part in the formation of the skeleton.

A. The sarcomatrix was first described in my Monograph in 1862 (p. 110) as the "Mutterboden der Pseudopodien," possessing a pre-eminent physiological importance. Compare also my paper on the sarcode elements of the Rhizopoda (Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xv. p. 342, 1865).

93. The Sarcoplegma.—By the name sarcoplegma, as distinguished from the remaining extracapsular sarcode, is understood the intracalymmar web of exoplasm or "ectosarcode network," which ramifies within the gelatinous mass of the calymma. Internally it is in direct connection with the continuous sheath (sarcomatrix), which encloses the central capsule, whilst externally it is in contact with the superficial sarcode network (sarcodictyum) which surrounds the calymma. The configuration of this exoplasmic web, which penetrates the jelly-veil in all directions, is exceedingly variable; in most Radiolaria it is extremely irregular in form, like the protoplasmic network in the ground-substance of many kinds of connective tissue. In some groups, however, it assumes a rather regular shape which it appears to retain (e.g., in many Acantharia). It must be assumed also that in those instances where the consistency {lxi}of the calymma approaches that of cartilage, the tracks of the exoplasmic threads remain constant, but accurate observations are wanting as to how far the configuration of the sarcoplegma is constant or variable in the different groups, as well as regarding its peculiar behaviour in those Radiolaria whose calymma is characterised by the formation of vacuoles or alveoles (see § 86). Usually it envelops the larger alveoles in the form of a reticulate veil. In many Collodaria the exoplasm is aggregated at certain points of the intracalymmar web, so that large balls or amœboid bodies appear to be distributed between the alveoles, e.g., in Thalassophysa pelagica and Thalassicolla melacapsa (Pl. 1, figs. 4, 5). The sarcoplegma is metamorphosed directly into silex in the Radiolaria spongiosa, or those genera which possess a spongy cortical skeleton, and were formerly known as Spongurida; to this category belong the Spongosphærida (Pl. 18) and Spongodiscida (Pl. 47) as well as certain Nassellaria and Phæodaria. The single siliceous spicules, which are irregularly interwoven to form the spongy web, are to be regarded as the silicified threads of the intracalymmar sarcode network. From a physiological point of view the sarcoplegma is of importance both for the nutrition and motion of the Radiolaria, since it brings the sarcomatrix and the sarcodictyum, with the pseudopodia which radiate from it, into direct communication.

94. The Sarcodictyum.—The sarcodictyum may be defined as the extracalymmar network of exoplasm, and is a reticular covering which lies upon the outer surface of the gelatinous calymma. Internally, the sarcodictyum is in direct communication with the sarcoplegma, or the web of exoplasmic threads which ramifies in the gelatinous substance of the calymma; externally, on the other hand, the pseudopodia radiate freely from it; thus its relation to these is similar to that which the sarcomatrix bears to the roots of the sarcoplegma. Relations similar to those which have led to the separation of the primary from the secondary calymma, induce us to distinguish also a primary and secondary sarcodictyum. The original or primary sarcodictyum ramifies over the surface of the original or primary calymma, and like this is of pre-eminent importance in the formation of the primary lattice-shell; if we regard the surface of the primary calymma as the indispensable foundation for the deposition of this latter, then the primary sarcodictyum furnishes the material from which it is developed: silex in the Spumellaria and Nassellaria, a silicate of carbon in the Phæodaria, and acanthin in the Acantharia. It may indeed be said that the primary lattice-shell of the Radiolaria arises by a direct chemical metamorphosis of the primary sarcodictyum, by a chemical precipitation of the dissolved skeletal material (silex, silicate, or acanthin), which was stored up in the exoplasm of the sarcodictyum. Hence a deduction from the special conformation of the former to that of the latter is permissible. The particular form of the primary lattice-sphere with its regular or irregular meshes is due to the corresponding form of the primary sarcodictyum; both regular and irregular forms of this {lxii}commonly occurring. The form of the regular sarcodictyum with circular or regular polygonal, usually hexagonal, meshes is constantly maintained during the formation of the regular lattice-shells (e.g., Pl. 12, figs. 5-10; Pl. 52, figs. 8-20; Pl. 96, figs. 2-6; Pl. 113, figs. 1-6). The form of the irregular sarcodictyum, on the other hand, with irregular polygonal or roundish meshes, persists during the development of the irregular lattice-shells (e.g., Pls. 29, 70, 97, 106). All this is true also of the secondary sarcodictyum, or the exoplasmic network which ramifies over the surface of the secondary calymma. The secondary lattice-shells, which are deposited on the surface of the latter, retain the configuration of the secondary sarcodictyum, by the chemical metamorphosis of which they have originated; this is the case in many Spumellaria which develop several concentric lattice-shells (Pl. 29), in some Nassellaria (Pl. 54, fig. 5), in the Phractopeltida among the Acantharia (Pl. 133), and in the double-shelled Phæodaria, Cannosphærida, and part of the Cœlodendrida and Cœlographida (Pls. 112, 121, 128). In those Radiolaria which form no lattice-shell whatever, the conformation of the sarcodictyum is usually irregular, with meshes of irregular form and unequal size; sometimes, however, they seem to be very regular, as in many Acanthometra (Pl. 129, fig. 4).

95. The Pseudopodia.—On the whole the pseudopodia or thread-like processes of the exoplasm exhibit in the Radiolaria the same characteristic peculiarities as in all true Rhizopoda; they are usually very numerous, long and thin, flexible and sensitive filaments of sarcode, which show the peculiar phenomena of granular movement. Their physiological significance is in several respects very great, for they serve as active organs for the inception of nutriment, for locomotion, sensation, and the formation of the skeleton (see note A, below). The presence of a calymma, however, which distinguishes the Radiolaria from the other Rhizopoda, brings about certain modifications in the behaviour of the pseudopodia. If in general all the threads, which arise from the sarcomatrix or fundamental layer and radiate outwards, be called "pseudopodia," then that part of them which is included in the gelatinous substance of the calymma and forms the sarcoplegma may be termed the "collopodia" (or intracalymmar pseudopodia), and the remaining portion, which passes outwards from the sarcodictyum freely into the water, may be described as "astropodia" (or extracalymmar pseudopodia). In many Radiolaria these two portions present some differences in morphological and physiological respects, and certain distinctions are probably generally present (see note B). Apart from this universal differentiation in the different groups of the Radiolaria, specially modified forms of pseudopodia may be recognised as the axopodia and myxopodia of the Acantharia (see § 95, A), and the sarcode-flagellum of certain Spumellaria (see note C).

A. The pseudopodia of the Radiolaria have been so fully described in my Monograph, in 1862, both morphologically and physiologically, that I need only refer to the account there given {lxiii}(pp. 89-127); for supplementary observations see R. Hertwig (1879, L. N. 33, p. 117) and Bütschli (1882, L. N. 41, pp. 437-445).

B. The Astropodia, or free radiating pseudopodia, are in many Radiolaria more or less clearly distinguishable from the collopodia, which form the sarcoplegma within the calymma; how far these distinctions depend upon a permanent differentiation (especially in the Acantharia and Phæodaria) needs further investigation.

C. The sarcode-flagellum (perhaps better termed axoflagellum) was first described in my Monograph (1862, p. 115) in the case of various Discoidea (Taf. xxviii. figs. 5, 8; Taf. xxx. fig. 1). Hertwig has given a substantially similar account of the organ in some other Discoidea (L. N. 33, p. 67, Taf. vi. figs. 10, 11); probably this peculiar structure is confined to the order Discoidea among the Spumellaria, but is widely distributed within its limits. The axoflagellum is a thick cylindrical thread of sarcode, finely striated and pointed towards its free end. It always lies in the equatorial plane of the discoidal body, and always unpaired in one of its axes; in the triradiate Discoidea it is in the axis of the unpaired principal arm and opposite to it (Pl. 43, fig. 15). In the Ommatodiscida (p. 500, Pl. 48, figs. 8, 19, 20) the axoflagellum probably passes out through the peculiar marginal ostium of the shell. Perhaps it is always connected with the central nucleus by intracapsular axial fibres, and is to be regarded as a specially differentiated bundle of pseudopodia (or axopodia?).

95A. The Myxopodia and Axopodia.—The two forms of pseudopodia which we distinguish as myxopodia and axopodia differ markedly from each other both morphologically and physiologically. The myxopodia, or ordinary free pseudopodia, which are found in large numbers in all Radiolaria, and constitute their most important peripheral organs, are simple homogeneous exoplasmic threads, which arise from the sarcodictyum or extracalymmar sarcode network, and radiate freely into the water; here they may branch and combine by anastomosis to form a changeable network, but they never contain an axial thread. The axopodia, on the other hand, are differentiated pseudopodia, which consist of a firm radial thread, and a soft covering of exoplasm; they penetrate the whole calymma in a radial direction and project freely from its surface, and generally (if not always) they are produced inwards to the middle of the central capsule, perforating its membrane; their proximal end is lost in a dark central heap of granules. Such axopodia are at present known with certainty only in the Acantharia, where they are widely, and perhaps universally, distributed. Their development in this legion probably stands in direct causal relation to the peculiar structure of the central capsule and the centrogenous formation of the skeleton. Since the radial skeletal rods of the Acanthometra possess originally a thin coating of protoplasm, it may be said that the centrogenous axopodia of this group became differentiated in two ways, the firm axial threads of one section remaining very thin and covered by protoplasm, whilst those of the other section became metamorphosed into radial bars of acanthin. This hypothesis acquires more probability from the regular distribution and arrangement of the axopodia in the Acantharia; they usually stand at fixed intervals {lxiv}between the radial bars, singly or in groups; sometimes their number seems to be not greater than that of the bars, whilst in other cases a circlet or group of axopodia corresponds to each radial bar. Perhaps their fine axial thread consists of acanthin. At all events the axopodia are constant organs (probably sensory, like the "palpocils") and not retractile like the movable myxopodia.

The axial threads in the pseudopodia of the Acanthometra were first discovered by R. Hertwig, who accurately described their peculiar structure and arrangement (L. N. 33, pp. 16, 117).

96. The Myophriscs of the Acanthometra.—The Acanthometra are characterised by a very peculiar differentiation of the exoplasm, namely, by the formation of myophriscs or contractile threads from the sarcodictyum. In most (and perhaps in all) Acantharia of this order each radial bar is surrounded by a circlet of such contractile threads, which was first described as a "ciliary corona" (see note A, below). The number of contractile threads in each circlet usually amounts to from ten to twenty, rarely being more than thirty and less than eight; it often appears to be constant in the individual species (see note B). In the living state the myophriscs are long, thin filaments, the pointed distal end of which is inserted into the radial bar, whilst the thicker proximal end is attached to the surface of the calymma, which is elevated round the base of each rod into the form of a gelatinous cone or skeletal sheath (see note C). Probably the myophriscs lie on the outer surface of the apical portion of this gelatinous cone, and are hence to be regarded as exoplasmic threads differentiated from the sarcodictyum. Sometimes, however (as in Acanthochiasma), they fuse into a contractile membrane and form the envelope of a cone, whose interior is occupied by a gelatinous papilla of the calymma. On mechanical irritation the myophriscs contract rapidly and suddenly, like muscle-fibrillæ, becoming at the same time thicker, and hence are very different from pseudopodia. Their distal point of insertion being fixed to the firm acanthin rod, they raise by their contraction the skeletal sheath, to which their bases are attached or in the surface of which they lie. The result of their contraction is therefore a distention and increase in volume of the calymma, with which is no doubt connected an inception of water into the gelatinous mass, and hence a diminution in its specific gravity. Probably the Acanthometra contract their myophriscs voluntarily when they wish to rise in the water; when these relax the calymma collapses owing to its elasticity, water is then expelled and the specific gravity increases. From a physiological point of view, then, the myophriscs are to be regarded as a hydrostatic apparatus, morphologically as myophanes or muscular fibrillæ, such as also occur in the intracapsular protoplasm (see §§ 77-80). On more violent irritation and after the death of the Acanthometra the myophriscs separate from the radial bars and remain attached to the distal ends of the conical gelatinous sheaths as free "ciliary coronas." At the same time, {lxv}they melt into short, thick, hyaline rods, the so-called "gelatinous cilia." The myophriscs are found only in the order Acanthometra, and are wanting in the Acanthophracta, as well as in the other three legions of Radiolaria.

A. The "ciliary coronas" on the skeletal rods of dead Acanthometra were first described by the discoverer of this order, Johannes Müller, and referred to as "the stumps of the contracted, thickened threads" (L. N. 12, p. 11, Taf. xi.).

B. The "number of the gelatinous cilia" I found constant in certain species of Acanthometra, and stated in my Monograph (L. N. 16, p. 115) "that here is to be found the first differentiation of the diffuse sarcode into definite organs of regular definite number, size, and position, which deserve the name tentacles rather than pseudopodia."

C. The nature of the myophriscs as fibrillæ allied to muscles was first discovered by R. Hertwig, who described them as "structures of peculiar nature," under the name of "contractile threads," and pointed out in detail their histological and physiological peculiarities (L. N. 33, pp. 16-19, Taf. i.).

97. The Exoplasm of the Peripylea.—The extracapsular protoplasm of the Spumellaria or Peripylea is in communication with the intracapsular sarcode by the innumerable fine pores of the capsule-membrane, and like these pores is evenly distributed over the whole surface. The sarcomatrix which immediately surrounds the central capsule is moderately strong, and sends out innumerable long, thin pseudopodia, which probably correspond to the pores of the membrane. Their number is markedly greater in the Spumellaria than in the other three legions. The ramifications and communications which the radiating fibres of the sarcomatrix undergo within the calymma, apparently present the most manifold variations, so that the sarcoplegma or intracalymmar network thus formed has very diverse forms. On the surface of the calymma the exoplasmic threads constitute a variously disposed sarcodictyum, a regular or irregular exoplasmic network, by the silicification of which a primary lattice-shell arises in the majority of the Spumellaria. The free ends of the pseudopodia, which arise from this extracalymmar network and radiate out into the water, appear in most Spumellaria to be relatively short, but exceedingly numerous. Specially modified pseudopodia and axial threads in particular do not seem to occur in this legion. Perhaps, however, among the latter may be reckoned the remarkable pseudopodia which combine to form the sarcode flagellum in many Discoidea (and perhaps in other Spumellaria). This axoflagellum is a particularly strong thread of sarcode, arising from a definite point in the central capsule; it is cylindrical or slenderly conical in form, much longer, stronger, and more contractile than the ordinary pseudopodia; it contracts in a serpentine fashion on mechanical irritation and seems to originate by the fusion of a bundle of pseudopodia (compare § 95, C).

98. The Exoplasm of the Actipylea.—The extracapsular protoplasm of the Acantharia or Actipylea differs in several important respects from that of other {lxvi}Radiolaria, and appears to undergo more significant differentiations than that of the three other legions. Since the pores in the wall of the central capsule are not distributed evenly and at equal intervals over its whole surface (as in the Peripylea), but rather exhibit a regular disposition in groups at unequal intervals, the number of projecting pseudopodia is much less and the law of their arrangement different from that which obtains in the Peripylea (§ 58). In many and probably in all Acantharia they are divided into two groups, those which arise from the centre of the capsule and possess firm axial threads, and those which have not these characters (compare § 95, A). The axopodia, or stiff pseudopodia with axial threads, arise from the centre of the capsule, are present in much smaller numbers than the soft and flexible myxopodia, and are regularly disposed between the radial bars of acanthin, usually so that they are as far removed from them as possible, i.e., in the centre between each three or four bars; these latter may indeed be regarded as strongly developed axial threads, which have become changed into acanthin (§ 95, A). The soft myxopodia, or pseudopodia without axial threads, are much more numerous than the others, and arise from the sarcodictyum or exoplasmic network which ramifies over the surface of the calymma. Their number and arrangement seem, however, in many (if not in all) Acantharia to be regular and not to possess the extraordinary variability seen in the other three legions. In many Acanthometra the sarcodictyum exhibits a symmetrical conformation, with regular or subregular, polygonal (mostly hexagonal) meshes, and generally the stronger threads of the sarcodictyum secrete a firm, homogeneous or fibrillar, striated substance, which forms a network of ridges on the surface of the calymma. In the Acanthophracta the place of this is taken by the acanthin network of the primary lattice-shell. The axopodia of the Acanthometra are usually about as long as the radial spines between which they stand; their stiff axial thread is surrounded by a soft sheath of protoplasm, communicating with the thin sarcomatrix which surrounds the central capsule. Numerous branches pass into the calymma from the exoplasmic sheath of the axial threads, and form by their interweaving a loose sarcoplegma. The most peculiar differentiated products of the exoplasm of the Acantharia, however, are the myophane fibrillæ of the Acanthometra, which have already been described under the name of myophriscs (§ 96).

99. The Exoplasm of the Monopylea.—The extracapsular protoplasm of the Nassellaria or Monopylea arises only from the porochora, or the intracapsular podoconus, the oral base of which is formed by this porous area. The pseudopodia or protoplasmic threads which pass through the pores of the latter, united into a bundle, are not very numerous (in most Nassellaria probably between thirty and ninety), and unite just outside it to form a thick discoid sarcomatrix; this covers the porochora completely below, and spreads out in the form of a thin envelope of exoplasm over the whole {lxvii}surface of the central capsule; at the apical portion of the latter the sarcomatrix is often so thin that it can only be recognised by the aid of reagents; it separates the membrane of the central capsule from the surrounding calymma. The pseudopodia, which penetrate the latter and by loose anastomoses from a wide-meshed sarcoplegma within it, are usually not very numerous. The greater part of them radiate in a bunch downwards from the basal disc of the sarcomatrix, and a smaller number arise from the thinner envelope which covers the remainder of the central capsule (Pl. 51, fig. 13; Pl. 65, fig. 1; Pl. 81, fig. 16). On the outer surface of the calymma the collopodia, which have passed through it, unite to form the sarcodictyum, and through the silicification of this the primary lattice-shell arises in the great majority of the Nassellaria. From the surface of the sarcodictyum arise the astropodia, or free pseudopodia which radiate outwards into the water. Their number in most Monopylea is relatively small, but their length appears to be very great.

100. The Exoplasm of the Cannopylea.—The extracapsular protoplasm of the Phæodaria or Cannopylea is much better developed as regards volume than in the other three legions, and is connected with the intracapsular sarcode by only a few apertures in the capsule-membrane. In most Phæodaria three of these are present, the astropyle or main-opening at the oral pole of the main axis, and the two lateral parapylæ or accessory openings on either side of the aboral pole (§ 60). In several families the latter appear to be wanting, whilst in others their number is increased; these families have not yet, however, been observed during life. The protoplasm projects both from the oral main-opening and from the two aboral accessory openings in the form of a thick cylindrical rod; the tube into which each opening is produced in many Phæodaria (longer in the case of the astropyle, shorter in the parapylæ) being regarded as an excretion from this protoplasmic cylinder. The sarcode threads within the tube appear like a bundle of fibrils, either quite hyaline or finely striated. After issuing from the mouth of the aperture they pass over into a thick sarcomatrix, which surrounds the central capsule entirely and separates it from the enclosing calymma. In the neighbourhood of the basal astropyle the sarcomatrix is usually swollen into a thick lenticular disc, which is in direct contact with the peculiar phæodium of this legion (§ 89). The pseudopodia, which radiate from the sarcomatrix, and form by anastomosis a wide-meshed sarcoplegma within the calymma, are usually not very numerous in the Phæodaria, but are very strong. Sometimes two stronger bundles of collopodia may be distinguished at the two poles of the main axis, an oral bundle (in the direction of the proboscis of the astropyle) and an aboral bundle (at the opposite pole between the parapylæ). The collopodia of the sarcoplegma unite at the surface of the calymma into a regular or irregular sarcodictyum, which, in most Phæodaria produces by the secretion of a peculiar silicate the primary lattice-shell. {lxviii}The free astropodia, which pass outwards from the sarcodictyum into the water, are in most Phæodaria very numerous (Pl. 101, fig. 10). Since, however, only a few species of this great legion have been observed in a living state, their pseudopodia require further accurate examination.

Chapter IV.—THE SKELETON.

(§§ 101-140).

101. The Significance of the Skeleton.—The skeleton of the Radiolaria is developed in such exceedingly manifold and various shapes, and exhibits at the same time such wonderful regularity and delicacy in its adjustments, that in both these respects the present group of Protista excels all other classes of the organic world. For, in spite of the fact that the Radiolarian organism always remains merely a single cell, it shows the potentiality of the highest complexity to which the process of skeleton formation can be brought by a single cell. All that has been brought to pass in this direction by single tissue-cells of animals and plants does not attain the extremely high stage of development of the Radiolaria. Only very few Rhizopoda of this very rich and varied class fail to exhibit the power of forming this firm supporting and protecting organ—indeed, only ten of the seven hundred and thirty-nine genera which are enrolled in the list of the Challenger collection, namely, six genera of Spumellaria (five Thalassicollida, Actissa, Thalassolampe, Thalassopila, Thalassicolla, Thalassophysa, Pl. 1, and one genus of Collozoida, Collozoum, Pl. 3), and in addition two genera of Nassellaria (the Nassellida, Cystidium and Nassella, Pl. 91, fig. 1), and two genera of Phæodaria (the Phæodinida, Phæocolla and Phæodina, Pl. 101, figs. 1, 2). These skeletonless forms of Radiolaria are, however, of extreme interest, since they include the original stem-forms of the whole class as well as of its four legions. All Radiolaria which form skeletons have originated from soft and skeletonless stem-forms by adaptation, and that polyphyletically, for the skeletal types of the four legions have been developed independently of each other (§ 108).

102. The Chemical Peculiarities of the Skeleton.—The chemical composition of the skeleton shows very marked variations in the different legions of the Radiolaria. The two legions Spumellaria and Nassellaria (united formerly as "Polycystina") form their skeleton of pure silica (see note A, below); the legion Phæodaria of a silicate of carbon (see note B), and the Acantharia of a peculiar organic substance—acanthin (see note C). This explains the well-known fact that the deposits of fossil Radiolaria (or Polycystine marls) are composed exclusively of the skeletons of Spumellaria and Nassellaria, those of the Acantharia and Phæodaria being entirely absent (in the case of the last group, however, exception must be made in favour of the Dictyochida, or those Phæodaria {lxix}whose skeleton is made up of isolated scattered tangential siliceous fragments). The enormous deposits of Radiolarian skeletons in the deep sea of today, which constitute the Radiolarian ooze, consist, like the fossil Polycystine marls, almost exclusively of the shells of Spumellaria and Nassellaria, though here the acanthin skeletons of the Acantharia may be present in very small numbers, and the silicate skeletons of the Phæodaria, which offer more resistance to the solvent action of sea-water, somewhat more abundantly. Calcareous skeletons do not occur in the Radiolaria (see note D).

A. The pure siliceous skeletons of the Polycystina were first recognised in 1833 by Ehrenberg in chalky marls (L. N. 2, p. 117). Since the two legions Acantharia and Phæodaria were entirely unknown to Ehrenberg, his name Polycystina has reference only to the Spumellaria and Nassellaria.

B. The silicate skeleton of the Phæodaria was formerly taken by me for a purely siliceous one. When I described the first Phæodaria in my Monograph in 1862, I was only acquainted with five genera and seven species, whilst the number of Phæodaria here described from the Challenger amounts to eighty-four genera and four hundred and sixty-five species. In the vast majority of these (though not in all) the skeleton becomes more or less intensely stained by carmine, and is also more or less charred at a red heat, in some even becoming of a blackish-brown. In many Phæodaria, furthermore, the hollow skeletal tubes are destroyed by the continued action of heat. They are also, for the most part, strongly acted upon, or even destroyed by boiling caustic alkalis, whilst boiling mineral acids have no effect upon them. The best method of cleaning the skeletons of Phæodaria from their soft parts is to heat them in concentrated sulphuric acid, and then add a drop of fuming nitric acid; in this they are not dissolved even on prolonged heating. From these facts it would appear that the skeletons of the Phæodaria consist of a compound of organic substance and silica, or a "carbonic silicate." The more intimate composition yet remains to be discovered, as also the manifold differences which the various families of Phæodaria seem to show in respect of its composition. The small skeletal fragments of the Dictyochida (the only remains of Phæodaria which occur as fossils) appear to consist of pure silica.

C. The acanthin skeleton of the Acantharia was first described as such in my Monograph (1862, pp. 30-32). Johannes Müller, the discoverer of this legion, took them for siliceous skeletons and defined the Acanthometra as "Radiolaria without lattice-shell, but with siliceous radial spines" (L. N. 12, p. 46). I formerly supposed that the acanthin skeletons in some of the Acantharia were partially or wholly metamorphosed into siliceous skeletons, but, according to the investigations of R. Hertwig, this does not appear to be the case; he showed that the skeletons of the most varied Acanthometra and Acanthophracta are completely dissolved under the longer or shorter action of acids, and supposes that in all Acantharia, without exception, the skeleton is composed of acanthin (1879, L. N. 33, p. 120). Quite recently Brandt has found that the acanthin spines dissolve not only in acids, alkalis, and "liquor conservativus" (as I had shown), but also in solutions of carbonate of soda (1 per cent.), and even of common salt (10 to 20 per cent.); he concludes from this that they consist of an albuminoid substance (vitellin) (L. N. 38, p. 400). I am unable to share this view, for I have never been able to see some of the most important reactions of albumen in any of the skeletons which I have examined, such for example as the xanthoproteic reaction, the red coloration with Millon's test, &c. They do not become {lxx}yellow either with nitric acid or with iodine. In dilute mineral acids they dissolve more rapidly than in concentrated. My usual method of cleansing the skeleton of Acantharia (which has been practised with the same result on thousands of specimens) consists in heating the preparation in a small volume of concentrated sulphuric acid and then adding a drop of fuming nitric acid; all other constituents (the whole central capsule and the calymma) are thus very rapidly destroyed; the skeleton remains quite uninjured and withstands the combined action of the mineral acids for a longer or shorter time, though on prolonged heating it also is dissolved. I do not therefore regard acanthin as an albuminous substance, but as one related to chitin.

D. Calcareous skeletons have not been certainly demonstrated in the Radiolaria, and probably do not occur. Sir Wyville Thomson in his Atlantic (1877, L. N. 31, vol. i. p. 233, fig. 51) described under the name Calcaromma calcarea, a Radiolarian which contained scattered in its calymma numerous calcareous corpuscles "resembling the rowels of spurs." These are identical with the "toothed bodies, recalling crystal balls," which Johannes Müller figured in the Mediterranean Thalassicolla morum so early as 1858, and compared with the "siliceous asterisks of Tethya" (L. N. 12, p. 28, Taf. vii. figs. 1, 2). I formerly regarded these peculiar calcareous corpuscles, whose solubility in mineral acids I had observed, as spicules of a Thalassicollid, and hence described the species in my Monograph as Thalassosphæra morum (L. N. 16, p. 260). I have, however, seen reason to change my view, and am now led to suppose that those peculiar calcareous corpuscles, which may be named "Calcastrella," are not formed by the Radiolarian itself, but are foreign bodies which have been accidentally incorporated into the calymma of a Thalassicollid (Actissa). These corpuscles occur, often in large numbers, in many preparations in the Challenger collection, and in the calymma of other Radiolaria, chiefly Discoidea, hence it would appear that they are foreign bodies taken up by the pseudopodia and carried into the calymma by the circulation of the sarcode. The Radiolaria which Sir Wyville Thomson figured as Calcaromma calcarea, and Müller as Thalassicolla morum, I regard as species of Actissa (see p. 13), perhaps Actissa radiata of the Pacific, and Actissa primordialis of the Mediterranean (compare the description of the Thalassosphærida of the Challenger collection, pp. 30, 31).

103. The Physical Properties of the Skeleton.—The skeletons of all Radiolaria are characterised pre-eminently by a high degree of firmness, which fits them to serve as protective and supporting apparatus. This is obvious in the case of the pure siliceous shells of the Polycystina; but the acanthin framework of the Acantharia also possesses a degree of stiffness but little inferior, whilst the silicate skeletons of the Phæodaria seem on the whole to be not so firm. The hollow skeletal tubes of the last-named, which are filled with gelatinous material, are very brittle on account of the delicacy of their walls. Their elasticity also is very small, whilst that of the acanthin spines is considerable. The thin long needles of many Acantharia are very elastic, as are also the bristle-like siliceous spicules of many Spumellaria. The refractive power of the skeleton in the various legions is very different, depending upon the chemical constitution. The siliceous skeleton of the Polycystina (Spumellaria and Nassellaria) and the silicate skeleton of the Phæodaria have the same refractive index as glycerine, and hence become invisible when mounted in that fluid; they then become visible only on addition of {lxxi}water, and are clearer in proportion to the quantity of water which is added. The refractive index of acanthin is, however, very different from that of glycerine, so that the skeletons of Acantharia are readily visible when mounted in this fluid. In water, the skeletons of all Radiolaria appear about equally refractive, as also in Canada balsam. The substance of the skeleton appears almost entirely hyaline, colourless, and transparent. Very rarely it is faintly coloured (in some Acantharia). A cloudy opaque constitution is seen in some Phæodaria (especially in the "porcellanous shells" of Tuscarorida and Circoporida, Pls. 100, 114-117); when dried, these appear by reflected light milky-white or yellowish-white; the cause of this opacity lies partly in the peculiar "cement-like structure" of these porcellanous shells, partly in their fine porosity, and the minute air-bubbles contained in their thick walls.

104. The Elementary Structure of the Skeleton.—The general constitution of the skeleton—or more accurately expressed, of the morphological elements of which the skeleton consists—is of such a nature that it may be termed structureless. Both the organic acanthin skeletons of the Acantharia and the silicate skeletons of the Phæodaria, as well as the inorganic siliceous skeletons of the Spumellaria and Nassellaria, appear under the microscope perfectly homogeneous, transparent, colourless, and crystalline. Only very rarely do they show traces of a concentric striation, which arises from the deposition of the skeletal substance in layers; as, for example, the thick spines of some Phæodaria (Pls. 105-107, &c.). Some of the Phæodaria, however, form an exception to this rule, inasmuch as their partially tubular skeletal elements possess a remarkable porcellanous structure. In the tubular or Cannoid skeleton, which occurs in most Cannopylea, the lumen of the thin-walled flinty tube is filled with jelly, and frequently a thin siliceous thread runs in its axis, and is connected with the wall by transverse threads (§§ 127, 139). The elementary structure of the opaque porcellanous shells, which distinguish the two families Circoporida (Pls. 114-117) and Tuscarorida (Pl. 100), is quite peculiar. Numerous fine siliceous spicules lie scattered irregularly in a finely granular or porous matrix.

105. Complete and Incomplete Lattice-Shells.—In the great majority of Radiolaria (in all four legions) the skeleton has the form of a delicate lattice-shell or a receptacle in which the central capsule is enclosed. In a small minority, however, this is not the case. The skeleton then consists only of isolated rigid pieces (radial or tangential spicules), or of a simple ring (sagittal ring of the Stephoidea), or of a basal tripod with or without a loose tissue of trabeculæ, &c. (Plectoidea); the central capsule is then not surrounded by a special latticed receptacle, but only rests upon the skeletal trabeculæ. According to these different arrangements, two principal groups or sublegions may be distinguished in each legion, of which one set (Cataphracta) are characterised by a complete {lxxii}lattice-shell, whilst the others (Aphracta) are without it. The Radiolaria aphracta, then, or Radiolaria without a complete skeleton, are the Collodaria (p. 9), the Acanthometra (p. 725), the Plectellaria (p. 895), and the Phæocystina (p. 1543). On the other hand, the Radiolaria cataphracta, or Radiolaria with a complete skeleton, are the Sphærellaria (p. 49), the Acanthophracta (p. 791), the Cyrtellaria (p. 1015), and the Phæocoscina (p. 1590).

Upon this basis the first subdivision of the Radiolaria was made by Johannes Müller, who recognised three groups:—"I. Thalassicolla, without receptacle, naked or with spicules; II. Polycystina, with a siliceous receptacle; III. Acanthometra, without receptacle, but with siliceous radial spines" (L. N. 12, p. 16).

106. The Ectolithia and Entolithia (Extracapsular and Intracapsular Skeletons).—The relation of the skeleton to the central capsule in the Radiolaria is very various in many respects; in the first instance two great groups, Ectolithia and Entolithia (see note A), may be distinguished topographically by mere external observation; in the former the skeleton lies entirely outside the central capsule; in the latter, partially at all events, within it. The Ectolithia, with a completely extracapsular skeleton, include all Nassellaria and Phæodaria, as well as a great part of the Spumellaria (all Collodaria and the most archaic forms of Sphærellaria); the Entolithia, on the other hand, in which the skeleton lies partly within, partly without the central capsule, include all Acantharia and the majority of the Spumellaria (most Sphærellaria, see note B).

A. The difference between Ectolithia and Entolithia was applied in my Monograph in 1862 (p. 222) to separate the Monocyttaria into two main groups. The arrangement was, however, quite artificial, being contrary to the natural relations of the larger groups, as was shown seventeen years later by the discovery of the different structural relations of the central capsule.

B. Among the Acantharia, which all possess primitively an intracapsular and centrogenous skeleton, the remarkable Cenocapsa (Pl. 133, fig. 11), seems to furnish the single exception; in it the skeleton consists of a simple spherical shell which encloses the concentric central capsule. The exception is, however, only apparent; the twenty perspinal pores of the shell show that they were originally in connection with twenty centrogenous acanthin spines, and that those have disappeared by retrograde metamorphosis.

107. Perigenous and Centrogenous Skeletons.—Much more important than the topographical relation of the skeleton to the central capsule, according to which the Ectolithia and Entolithia are separated from each other (§ 106), is the original development of the skeleton within or without the central capsule, which gives rise to the distinction between perigenous and centrogenous skeletons. Centrogenous skeletons are found only in the Acantharia, which are further distinguished from all other Radiolaria by their skeleton being formed of acanthin; in all Acantharia the formation of the skeleton begins in the middle of the central capsule, from which twenty (the number is inconstant only in the {lxxiii}small group Actinelida) radial spines are centrifugally developed. The three other legions, on the contrary, possess on the whole a perigenous skeleton, which originally develops outside the central capsule and never in its middle. In the Nassellaria and Phæodaria the skeleton retains this extracapsular position, as also in the Beloidea and part of the Sphærellaria among the Spumellaria; in the great majority of the latter, however, the primary perigenous skeleton is subsequently enveloped by the growing central capsule, so that it lies partially within it (§ 109).

108. Polyphyletic Origin of the Skeleton.—The skeleton of the Radiolaria has undoubtedly originated polyphyletically, for it is impossible to derive its manifold varieties from a single ground-form, or to regard them as modifications of one type. It is much more probable that the different skeletonless Radiolaria have entered upon different ways of skeleton formation quite independently of each other. At the outset it is quite clear that the skeletons of the four legions have originated independently of each other. Further, it is certain that within the legion of the Spumellaria the Beloid skeletons of the Collodaria are not connected with the Sphæroid skeletons of the Sphærellaria and the forms derived from them (see § 109). In the same way the skeletons of the Phæodaria are polyphyletic; probably in this legion the Beloid, Sphæroid, Cyrtoid, and Conchoid skeletons have been developed quite independently (see § 112). In the Nassellaria, on the other hand, it is possible that all the skeletal forms are to be derived monophyletically from a single simple primitive form (either the sagittal ring or basal tripod?) (see § 111). Still more probable is it that the Acantharia have arisen monophyletically, for all the forms of their acanthin skeleton may be derived without violence from Actinelius (see § 110).

109. The Skeleton of the Spumellaria.—The skeletons of the Spumellaria or Peripylea consist of silica, and are very different and of independent origin in the two orders of this legion. The first order, Collodaria, have either no skeleton whatever (Colloidea, p. 10, Pls. 1, 3), or their skeleton is Beloid, a loose extracapsular envelope of spicules, consisting of numerous unconnected portions; the separate parts are usually disposed tangentially, either as simple or compound siliceous spicules (Beloidea, p. 28, Pls. 2, 4). The second order of Spumellaria, on the other hand (Sphærellaria, p. 49), develops a siliceous lattice-shell which consists of a single piece, and is remarkable for the extraordinary variety of its forms (pp. 50-715, Pls. 5-50). To this order belong not less than three hundred genera and seventeen hundred species of the Challenger Radiolaria (that is, about two-fifths of all the genera and species). In spite of this extreme richness in different forms this large group must be regarded as monophyletic, since all its forms may be quite naturally derived from a common stem-form, a simple lattice-sphere (Cenosphæra, p. 61, Pl. 2). The twenty-eight families of Sphærellaria may be distributed in four suborders, among which the Sphæroidea constitute the {lxxiv}stem-forms, since they retain the original spherical shape (Pls. 5-8, 11-30). In the other three suborders a vertical main axis is developed, which in Prunoidea is longer, in Discoidea shorter than the other axes of the shell. Hence the shell of the Prunoidea (p. 284, Pls. 13, bis, 17, 39, 40) is ellipsoidal or cylindrical, that of the Discoidea, on the other hand, lenticular or discoidal (p. 402, Pls. 31-38, 41-48). Finally, the shell of the fourth suborder, Larcoidea, is lentelliptical; it has the ground-form of a triaxial ellipsoid, and is characterised by the possession of three unequal dimensive axes, or three isopolar axes of different lengths perpendicular to each other (p. 599, Pls. 9, 10, 49, 50).

110. The Skeleton of the Acantharia.—The skeletons of the Acantharia or Actipylea are distinguished from those of all other Radiolaria by two very important peculiarities; in the first place, they consist not of silica but of a peculiar organic substance, Acanthin, and secondly, their development is centrogenous, numerous radial spines or acanthin spicules being formed which are united in the middle of the central capsule. Hence the Acantharia are the only Radiolaria in which the skeleton originates from the first in the middle of the central capsule. The number of radial spines is primitively indefinite, variable, and often considerable (more than a hundred), but in the great majority it is limited to twenty. In accordance with this the legion may be divided into two orders, the more archaic small group Adelacantha, with an indefinite number of spines, and the more recent group, Icosacantha, which has been developed from them and possesses twenty regularly disposed spines; of the three hundred and seventy-two species of Acantharia which have been hitherto described, about five per cent. belong to the former, about ninety-five per cent. to the latter division (see note A, below). The numerous genera of Icosacantha may then be again divided into two suborders, of which the Acanthonida (p. 740, Pls. 130-132) produce no complete lattice-shell, and thus agree with the Actinelida, with which they may be united as Acanthometra in the broader sense (or Acantharia without a lattice-shell). The Acanthophracta, on the other hand (p. 791, Pls. 133-140), produce a complete lattice-shell, usually by means of two opposite or four crossed transverse processes, which arise from each radial spine and unite with each other (see note B, below). In most Acanthophracta the lattice-shell remains single; only in the Phractopeltida does it consist of two concentric lattice-spheres (p. 847, Pl. 133, figs. 1-6). Furthermore, the whole order Acanthophracta may be subdivided into two suborders according to the different ground-form of the lattice-shell; this remains spherical in the Sphærophracta (the three families Sphærocapsida, Dorataspida, Phractopeltida, Pls. 133-138). On the other hand, it assumes another form in the Prunophracta; it becomes ellipsoidal in the Belonaspida (Pl. 136, figs. 6-9), discoidal or lentiform in the Hexalaspida (Pl. 139); and finally takes the shape of a double cone in the Diploconida (Pl. 140).

A. The group Adelacantha consists only of the suborder Actinelida, with the three families Astrolophida, Litholophida, and Chiastolida (p. 728, Pl. 129, figs. 1-3); the number of the radial spines is very different and variable, sometimes only from ten to sixteen, but usually from thirty to fifty, and often more than one hundred; they are generally irregularly distributed, and not as in the second main division. This latter, the Icosacantha, always possesses twenty radial spines, which are regularly disposed according to a constant law, the so-called "Müllerian" or "Icosacanthan" law; the twenty spines are always so placed between the poles of a spineless axis that they form five zones each of four spines; the four spines of each zone are equidistant from each other, and also from the same pole, and alternate with those of the neighbouring zones, so that the whole twenty lie in four meridian planes, which cut out an angle of 45° (compare pp. 717-722, Pls. 130-140). In spite of the manifold variations in form which are developed in the Icosacantha, they may all be derived from a common stem-form, Acanthometron (p. 742), since the law of distribution of the twenty spines is constantly inherited.

B. An exception is found in the peculiar family Sphærocapsida (p. 797, Pl. 133, figs. 7-11; Pl. 135, figs. 6-10). Here the shell is composed of innumerable small, perforated plates, which arise on the surface of the calymma independently of the spines.

111. The Skeleton of the Nassellaria.—The skeletons of the Nassellaria or Monopylea consist of silica, and are never composed of separate portions, but constitute always a single continuous piece. The ground-form is originally monaxon, corresponding to that of the central capsule, with a constant difference between the two poles of the vertical main axis. The ground-form is never spherical or polyaxon as in the lattice-shells of the Spumellaria, and the skeleton never consists of hollow tubes, as in the Phæodaria. The legion Nassellaria may be divided into two orders; in the Plectellaria (three suborders Nassoidea, Plectoidea, Stephoidea) the skeleton does not form a complete lattice-shell; in the Cyrtellaria, on the other hand, which are derived from these, the siliceous skeleton forms a complete lattice-shell enclosing the central capsule. The number of forms thus developed is astonishingly great, so that among the Nassellaria no less than two hundred and seventy-four genera and sixteen hundred and eighty-seven species may be distinguished, almost as many as in the Sphærellaria. In spite of this great variety of forms the legion Monopylea is probably monophyletic; at least all the different skeletal forms may be derived from three elements which are combined in the most manifold fashion; (1) the sagittal ring, a simple siliceous ring, which lies vertically in the sagittal plane of the body, encircles the central capsule and comes into contact with it at the basal pole of the main axis (§ 124); (2) the basal or oral tripod, composed of three diverging radial spines, which meet in the middle of the basal pole of the central capsule (or in the centre of the porochora) (§ 125); (3) the cephalis, or lattice-head, a simple ovoid or subspherical lattice-shell, which encloses the central capsule and stands in connection with it at the basal pole of its main axis. Any one of these three important structural elements of the Nassellarian skeleton may possibly be the starting-point {lxxvi}for all the remaining forms of the Monopylea; the great difficulty in their phylogenetic derivation lies in the facts that, on the one hand, any one of the three elements may alone constitute the skeleton, and on the other hand, in the great majority of the legion, two or three are united together (compare §§ 182-185).

112. The Skeleton of the Phæodaria.—The skeleton of the Phæodaria or Cannopylea is always extracapsular, usually consists of a silicate of carbon (more rarely of pure silica), and in the majority of the legion is composed of hollow cylindrical tubes, whose siliceous wall is very thin, and whose lumen is filled with gelatinous material (§ 127). The manifold and remarkable skeletal forms occurring in this legion are not monophyletic, since they cannot be derived from a common stem-form; they are, on the contrary, polyphyletic, various skeletonless Phæodaria (Phæodinida) have independently acquired skeletons of different form and composition. The legion Phæodaria can be subdivided into four orders, the skeletons of which present the following important distinctions:—(1) The Phæocystina possess only incomplete Beloid skeletons (§ 115), composed of many separate pieces, sometimes tangentially (Cannorrhaphida, Pl. 101), sometimes radially arranged (Aulacanthida, Pls. 102-105). (2) The Phæosphæria form Sphæroid skeletons (§ 116), usually only a simple lattice-shell without special aperture (Pls. 106-111); two concentric shells united by radial bars occur only in the Cannosphærida (Pl. 112). (3) The Phæogromia are distinguished by the formation of a simple Cyrtoid skeleton (§ 123) resembling that of the Monocyrtida; the monothalamus lattice-shell is usually ovoid or helmet-shaped, more rarely polyhedral or almost spherical; a vertical main axis can always be distinguished, at the basal pole of which is an aperture usually armed with teeth or spines (Pls. 99, 100, 113-120). (4) The Phæoconchia are distinguished from all other Radiolaria by the possession of a bivalved shell like that of the Conchifera; the two valves of this Conchoid skeleton must be distinguished as dorsal and ventral, as in the Brachiopoda (Pls. 121-128). The fifteen families of Phæodaria which are arranged in the four orders just mentioned, present such great differences among themselves, that the skeleton must be regarded as probably polyphyletic even within the limits of each order.

113. Types of Skeletal Formation.—No less than twelve different principal forms may be distinguished as morphological types of the formation of the skeleton in the Radiolaria; some of these are peculiar to a single legion or even to a smaller group; but sometimes the same form occurs in several legions. Some types occur only in an isolated manner, independently of the others, but most exist in various combinations with other types. Of the twelve described below the Conchoid and Cannoid occur only in the Phæodaria; the Plectoid and Circoid only in the Nassellaria; the Astroid only in the Acantharia; the remaining seven types are found in several legions in the same form and hence are polyphyletic.

114. The Astroid Skeleton.—Under the name "Astroid" we place the peculiar star-shaped skeletons of the Acantharia in opposition to those of all other Radiolaria, for they are separated from them not only fundamentally by reason of the chemical nature of their substance (Acanthin, § 102), but also by their centrogenous origin, and the resulting stellate form (Pls. 129-140). The Acantharia are the only Radiolaria in which the skeleton arises within the central capsule by the formation of numerous rays or radial spines of acanthin which project on all sides from the centre. Originally these are united at this point, their conical or pyramidal points meeting and being supported one upon another. In the great majority of Acantharia this loose apposition is constant, so that when the soft parts are destroyed the skeleton falls to pieces. Only in a few forms in this legion are the central ends of the spines fused so that the whole skeleton forms a connected star (Astrolithium). The small group Chiastolida (or Acanthochiasmida) is characterised by the fact that the two rays which are opposite to one another in each axis unite and form a diametral bar. The skeleton is almost always composed of twenty radial spines, which are regularly disposed (Icosacantha), only in the small primitive group Actinelida is the number variable (Adelacantha, § 110).

115. The Beloid Skeleton.—As Beloid or spicular skeletons are grouped together all those which consist of several disconnected portions; these always lie outside the central capsule, either within the calymma or on its surface. Such extracapsular Beloid skeletons are entirely wanting in the Acantharia and Nassellaria; they occur only in the Beloidea among the Spumellaria, and in the Phæocystina among the Phæodaria; the individual Beloid portions of the former are solid, those of the latter hollow. In both groups the simplest forms of the separate portions are simple unbranched needles (Thalassosphæra, Thalassoplancta, Physematium, Belonozoum, among the Spumellaria; Cannobelos and Cannorrhaphis among the Phæodaria); usually these spicules are disposed tangentially over the surface of the calymma. Among the Beloidea branched spicules occur more commonly than these simple ones; they are either stellate (with many rays united in a centre) or twin-like, with a tangential bar, from each pole of which two or three (seldom more) radial branches project (Pls. 2, 4). Among the Phæodaria the subfamily Dictyochida is characterised by the annular shape of its Beloid portions, either simple rings, or hat-shaped or pyramidal bodies with a latticed cap over the ring (Pl. 101, figs. 3-14; Pl. 114, figs. 7-13). The family Aulacanthida among the Phæodaria, alone possesses hollow radial tubes, which penetrate the whole calymma, and project distally over its surface, whilst their proximal ends rest upon the surface of the central capsule. Although in these cases the enclosed proximal end is always simple, the free distal end develops the most various processes in adaptation to its prehensile functions (Pls. 102-105).

116. The Sphæroid Skeletons or Lattice-Spheres.—The "lattice-spheres" or sphæroid skeletons are the simplest and most primitive forms of lattice shells, and are widely distributed in the three legions Spumellaria, Acantharia, and Phæodaria, whilst they are entirely wanting in the Nassellaria. The round lattice-shell is either a true sphere in the geometrical sense, or an endospherical polyhedron, i.e., a polyhedron, all whose angles lie in the surface of a sphere (§ 25). In general, primary and secondary lattice-spheres may be distinguished, of which the former are secreted on the outer surface of the primary, the latter on that of the secondary calymma (§ 85). Furthermore, simple and compound lattice-spheres may be distinguished, the latter of which consist of two or more concentric lattice-spheres firmly united by radial bars; in such cases the innermost lattice-sphere is always to be regarded as the oldest or primary, all the succeeding ones as secondary, and the outermost as the youngest (§ 129). The simple lattice-spheres are usually to be regarded as primary; they may, however, occasionally be secondary, in which case the primary shell, originally enclosed, has been lost by degeneration (as, for example, in the case of the Aulosphærida and some Sphærellaria).

117. The Lattice-Spheres of the Spumellaria.—The lattice-spheres or Sphæroid skeletons of the Spumellaria exhibit in spite of their simple type of structure, an extraordinary variety in the formation of the lattice-work and radial apophyses, so that in the systematic portion of this work no less than one hundred and seven genera and six hundred and fifty species are distinguished; these are united in one suborder, the Sphæroidea (pp. 50-284, Pls. 5-8, 11-30). It may be divided into two main divisions, the Monosphærida with a single primary lattice-sphere (Pls. 12-14, 21, 26, 27), and Pliosphærida (or Sphæroidea concentrica) whose skeleton consists of two or more concentric lattice-spheres united by radial bars. The latter are subdivided into Dyosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres (Pls. 16, 19, 20, 22, 28); Triosphærida, with three spheres (Pls. 17, 24, 29); Tetrasphærida, with four (Pls. 23, 30); Polysphærida, with five or more (Pls. 15, 23); and Spongosphærida, with spongy lattice-spheres (Pls. 18, 25). A special group is made up of the simple lattice-spheres of the social Collosphærida (or Sphæroidea polyzoa) (Pls. 5-8); these are usually more or less irregular, and characterised by the development of peculiar tubular processes; the latter are generally wanting in the Sphæroidea monozoa, whose lattice-shell is very regularly formed. This distinction is interesting and important, inasmuch as the regular lattice-spheres are explained by the independent development of the free-swimming Monozoa, whilst the irregular spheres are due to the mutual dependence of the social Polyzoa.

118. The Lattice-Spheres of the Acantharia.—The lattice-shells or Sphæroid skeletons of the Acantharia are immediately distinguishable from those of all other Radiolaria by their centrogenous development and the central union of the radial spines by which they are supported; the only exception is furnished by the remarkable genus Cenocapsa {lxxix}(Pl. 133, fig. 11), in which the radial spines are absent, not primitively, however, but in consequence of degeneration; for the twenty cross-shaped perspinal pores, originally due to the twenty radial spines, are still present. In the most nearly allied genera, Porocapsa (Pl. 133, fig. 7) and Cannocapsa (Pl. 133, fig. 8), the proximal part of the twenty radial spines is still present, while their distal portion has degenerated; hence in this case they do not stand in direct communication with the spherical shell. On the other hand, this primitive connection persists in the genera Astrocapsa (Pl. 133, figs. 9, 10), and Sphærocapsa (Pl. 135, figs. 6-10). The five genera just mentioned form the peculiar family Sphærocapsida (pp. 795-802); the spherical shell is in these cases composed of very numerous small plates disposed like a pavement, each plate or aglet being perforated by a pore canal; in addition to which there are twenty larger (perspinal) pores (or twenty cross-shaped groups each of four aspinal pores) at those important points where primitively the twenty radial spines penetrate the calymma. This peculiar porous "pavement shell" has probably been developed (independently of the twenty radial spines) upon the calymma of the Acanthonida (Acanthonia, p. 749) by the action of the sarcodictyum; it has, therefore, quite a different morphological significance from the spherical lattice-shell of the Dorataspida, which is composed of tangential apophyses of the twenty Acanthonid spines (pp. 802-847, Pls. 134-138). Each radial spine here forms either two opposite or four crossed transverse processes, and since their branches spread over the surface of the spherical calymma and are united suturally at their extremities, the peculiar lattice-sphere of the Dorataspida arises. This extensive family is again divided into two subfamilies:—the Diporaspida (Pls. 137, 138) possess always only two opposite apophyses, and form by the union of their branches two opposite primary apertures or aspinal meshes. The Tessaraspida, on the other hand (Pls. 135, 138), have always four crossed transverse processes, and form by their union four primary aspinal meshes. From the Diporaspida are probably to be derived the Phractopeltida (p. 847, Pl. 133, figs. 1-6), the only Acantharia which possess a double lattice-sphere; their double concentric spherical shell may be compared with that of the Dyosphærida.

119. The Lattice-Spheres of the Phæodaria.—The lattice-spheres or Sphæroid skeletons of the Phæodaria, which are generally developed quite regularly, though occasionally in a modified form, fall in the order Phæosphæria into two groups of very different structure, each of which includes two families. The first group (Phæosphæria inarticulata) contains the families Orosphærida (Pls. 106, 107) and Sagosphærida (Pl. 108); the lattice-work of the former consists of irregular polygonal meshes and very coarse, partially hollow trabeculæ; in the latter, on the other hand, it consists of triangular meshes and very slender filiform trabeculæ; in both families the whole sphæroid skeleton forms a single unsegmented piece as in most Sphæroidea. In the second group of {lxxx}Phæosphæria (Phæosphæria articulata), on the other hand, the lattice-sphere is segmented in quite a peculiar manner, and composed of hollow cylindrical tangential tubes, which are separated by astral septa at the nodal points of the network; this remarkable structure characterises the two families, Aulosphærida (Pls. 109-111) and Cannosphærida (Pl. 112); the segmented lattice-sphere of the former is simple and hollow; while that of the latter is connected by centripetal radial tubes with a simple concentric inner shell, which is sometimes solid, sometimes latticed, and provided with a main-opening corresponding to the astropyle of the enclosed central capsule. Since in the Aulosphærida also, hollow centripetal radial tubes project from the segmented lattice-sphere, it is possible that they have been derived from the Cannosphærida by the loss of the primitive internal shell. A special peculiarity of many Phæosphæria (Oroscena, Sagoscena, Auloscena, &c.) consists in the fact that the whole surface of the lattice-sphere is regularly covered with pyramidal or tent-shaped prominences (Pl. 106, fig. 4; Pl. 108, fig. 1; Pl. 110, fig. 1). A simple lattice-sphere quite similar to that of most Monosphærida also constitutes the skeleton of the Castanellida (Pl. 113), but since it possesses a special main-opening, it must be referred promorphologically to the Cyrtoid shells of the Phæogromia.

120. The Prunoid Skeleton or Lattice-Ellipsoid.—The "lattice-ellipsoids" or Prunoid skeletons have arisen from the lattice-spheres or Sphæroid skeletons by more energetic growth and elongation of one axis; this is the main axis of the body and is probably always vertical; its two poles are commonly equal. The Prunoid skeleton is either a true ellipsoid in the geometrical sense or an "endellipsoidal polyhedron" (i.e., a polyhedron, all the angles of which lie in an ellipsoidal surface). By further elongation of the main axis, the ellipsoidal form passes over into the cylindrical, the polar surfaces of the cylinder being usually rounded, rarely truncated. The rich order Prunoidea (pp. 284-402) contains numerous modifications of this form of shell which arise on the one hand by the formation of transverse constrictions, on the other by the apposition of concentric secondary shells. In respect of the latter, simple and compound Prunoid shells can be distinguished as in the case of the Sphæroid shells. In the compound Prunoid shells either all the concentric lattice-shells may be ellipsoidal or the inner may be spherical. More important differences are found in the transverse annular constrictions, which give the Prunoid skeleton a segmented appearance; in this respect, three principal forms may be distinguished (p. 288):—(A) Monoprunida, with unsegmented shell, having no transverse constriction (Pls. 15-17); (B) Dyoprunida, having a shell with two segments and one (equatorial) transverse constriction (Pl. 39); (C) Polyprunida, with three or more parallel transverse constrictions, by means of which the shell is divided into four or more segments (Pl. 40). In the same manner as the Prunoidea have arisen from the Sphæroidea among the Spumellaria by greater {lxxxi}development of the vertical main axis, the ellipsoidal Belonaspida have arisen from the spherical Dorataspida among the Acantharia (p. 859; Pl. 136, figs. 6-9; Pl. 139, figs. 8, 9). The main axis of the ellipsoid in this case is always occupied by the opposite equatorial spines of the hydrotomical axis (pp. 719, 860). In the legion Phæodaria a similar prolongation of the main axis rarely occurs; it is found, however, in Aulatractus (Pl. 111, figs. 6, 7), the lattice-shell of this Aulosphærid being sometimes truly fusiform, sometimes rather ellipsoidal or even double-conical.

121. The Discoid Skeletons or Lattice-Discs.—The "lattice-discs" or Discoid skeletons are characteristic of the Spumellarian group Discoidea, and have arisen from the lattice-spheres of the Sphæroidea by a less development of one axis, which is the main axis of the body, and is probably usually vertical; its two poles are always equal. The Discoid lattice-shell is either a biconvex lens (with a thin margin), or a plane disc (a shortened cylinder with thick margin), or some form intermediate between the two. All Discoid shells show a horizontal median plane or equatorial plane, by which they are divided into two equal halves, an upper and lower; the margin of the lens itself is originally the equator. The main axis, the shortest of all the axes of the shell, stands vertically in the centre of the equatorial plane. Among the Phæodaria Discoid shells rarely occur (Aulophacus), as also among the Acantharia (Hexalaspida).

122. The Larcoid Skeleton or Lentelliptical Lattice-Shell.—The lentelliptical lattice-shells, which may be shortly designated "Larcoid," are especially characteristic of the Larcoidea, a large order of Spumellaria (pp. 599-715; Pls. 9, 10, 49, 50). In addition they recur among the Acantharia, in the small family Hexalaspida (p. 872, Pl. 139), and the family Diploconida (p. 881, Pl. 140), which is derived from it. These lentelliptical lattice-shells are all characterised by the clear differentiation of three unequal, but isopolar dimensive axes, i.e., the three geometrical axes, perpendicular to one another, which determine the form of the shell, are of unequal length; the two poles of each are, however, equal. The geometrical ground-form is, therefore, a triaxial ellipsoid (§ 34). In the rich order Larcoidea the lentelliptical lattice-shell shows many variations in its development.

123. The Cyrtoid Skeleton.—Cyrtoid skeletons are those lattice-shells which possess a vertical main axis with two different poles (Monaxonia allopola); the upper pole is usually termed the apical, the lower the basal. Such Cyrtoid shells are characteristic of the great majority of the Nassellaria or Monopylea (and especially of the Cyrtellaria); they are also found in a large division of the Phæodaria (the Phæogromia), and in some Spumellaria. In general the manifold Cyrtoid shells may be divided into two large groups, those with one and those with several chambers. The monothalamous Cyrtoid shells are usually ovoid, conical, cap- or helmet-shaped; their {lxxxii}internal cavity is simple, without constrictions or septa. Among the Nassellaria they occur in the Monocyrtida (Pls. 51-54, 98), where they have received the name "Cephalis." A form of shell, essentially the same, is found amongst the Phæodaria in the order Phæogromia, more especially in the Challengerida (Pl. 99), Medusettida (Pls. 118-120), and Tuscarorida (Pl. 100), many of these latter closely resembling many Monocyrtida. Such monothalamous Cyrtoid shells occur much more rarely among the Spumellaria (e.g., among the Prunoidea in Lithapium, Lithomespilus, Druppatractus, Pls. 13, 14, &c.). Polythalamous Cyrtoid shells (Pls. 55-80) occur exclusively in the Nassellaria, and exhibit in this legion an astonishing variety of structure; they are distinguished from the monothalamous forms by the development of internal septa, or of annular incomplete diaphragms, which usually correspond to the external constrictions; their interior is thus divided into two or more communicating compartments. Among the polythalamous Cyrtoid shells may be distinguished three principal groups, the Stichocyrtid, Zygocyrtid, and Polycyrtid. Zygocyrtid shells are characteristic of the Spyroidea (Pls. 84-90), and are distinguished by a bilobate cephalis (cephalis bilocularis); the median sagittal ring, or a corresponding constriction, divides the shell into right and left compartments. Polycyrtid shells (Pl. 96) are peculiar to the Botryodea, and characterised by a multilobate cephalis (cephalis multilocularis). Stichocyrtid shells are those in which the primary cephalis remains simple, and new joints are successively added to its basal pole; such shells occur in the majority of the Cyrtoidea. Secondary chambers are sometimes added in the other two groups (Botryodea and Spyroidea). When, as often happens in these polythalamous Cyrtoid shells, two or three distinct joints follow each other, the first is called the "cephalis," the second the "thorax," and the third the "abdomen" (Tricyrtida Pls. 64-75).

124. The Circoid Skeleton.—This is a very important and remarkable type of skeletal formation, which occurs exclusively in the legion Nassellaria, where it plays a very prominent part; its characteristic element is the "sagittal ring," a simple, vertical, siliceous ring, which surrounds the central capsule in its sagittal plane, and is specially differentiated in its basal portion. This "primary sagittal ring" whose vertical allopolar main axis coincides with that of the Monopylean central capsule embraced by it, is characteristic of all members of the order Stephoidea (p. 931, Pls. 81-83, 92-94); here it forms by itself the skeleton of the Stephanida (Pl. 81); in the Semantida (Pl. 92) it is combined with a horizontal basal ring, in the Coronida (Pls. 82, 93) with a vertical frontal ring and in the Tympanida (Pls. 83, 94) with two horizontal rings, an upper mitral and a lower basal. In the great majority of these Stephoidea there often develop in definite places characteristic processes or apophyses, whose branches combine to form a loose tissue or an incomplete lattice-shell. This becomes complete in the Cyrtellaria, the majority of which retain more or less {lxxxiii}distinct traces of the sagittal ring. Hence the skeletons of all Nassellaria may be derived monophyletically (Hypothesis A, p. 893) from a simple sagittal ring (Archicircus and Lithocircus, Pl. 81). This theory, however, encounters the great difficulty that in many Stephoidea (Cortina, Cortiniscus, &c.) it is combined in a remarkable manner with the basal tripod of the Plectoidea, whilst in these latter it is entirely wanting (compare p. 894).

125. The Plectoid Skeleton.—Those forms are distinguished as Plectoid in which three, four, or more radial siliceous spines proceed from a common point, which lies excentrically outside the central capsule and at the basal pole of its vertical allopolar main axis. This peculiar type of skeletal formation only occurs in the legion Nassellaria, and is specially characteristic of the order Plectoidea (p. 898, Pl. 91). But since the essential elements of this remarkable skeleton also occur in many other Nassellaria, sometimes combined with the Circoid, sometimes with the Cyrtoid skeleton, it perhaps has a fundamental significance in this legion; at all events it is possible to derive monophyletically all the other forms of this legion from it (Hypothesis B, p. 893). The simplest form of the Plectoid skeleton is a tripod, the three feet of which either lie in a horizontal plane (Triplagia, Pl. 91, fig. 2), or correspond to the three edges of a low pyramid (Plagiacantha). A fourth ray is sometimes added, which stands vertically upon the summit of the pyramid (Plagoniscus, Plagiocarpa, Pl. 91, figs. 4, 5). In other Plectoidea three secondary rays are intercalated between the three primary (Hexaplagida, &c.); seldom the number is greatly increased (Polyplagida, &c.). The rays are rarely simple, but usually branched; in the Plagonida (Pl. 91, figs. 2-6) the branches remain free; in the Plectanida (Pl. 91, figs. 7-13) they are united to form a loose wicker-work. From such a web a perfect Cyrtoid shell may arise. Several forms of Plagonida may also be readily confounded with the isolated triradiate or quadriradiate spicula of many Beloid skeletons (Sphærozoum, Lampoxanthium, &c.).

126. The Spongoid Skeleton.—From the simple lattice-skeleton which the majority of Radiolaria possess, some of them develop a spongy shell; the trabeculæ of the lattice-work, situated in one plane in the former, are developed in the latter in different planes and cross irregularly in all directions; thus arises a kind of wicker-work of more or less spongy structure, usually with very thin trabeculæ and irregular meshes. Such Spongoid shells are most common among the Spumellaria, especially in the Sphæroidea (Spongosphærida, Pl. 18) and Discoidea (Spongodiscida, Pls. 41-47), more rarely in the Prunoidea and Larcoidea. Lattice-work of similar spongy structure occurs very seldom among the Nassellaria, e.g., in some Plectoidea (Pl. 91) and Cyrtoidea (Spongocyrtis, Spongopyramis, Spongomelissa, &c., Pl. 56, fig. 10; Pl. 64, figs. 5-10, &c.). Among the Phæodaria spongy skeletons are very rare; they {lxxxiv}are to be seen in some Phæosphæria (Oroplegma, Pl. 107, fig. 1; Sagoplegma, Pl. 108, fig. 2; Auloplegma, Pl. 111, fig. 8). No Spongoid skeletons are known among the Acantharia.

127. The Cannoid Skeleton.—Cannoid or tubular skeletons are those which are composed of hollow tubes; they occur exclusively in the Phæodaria or Cannopylea. Tubular processes, nevertheless, occur in some other Radiolaria, as, for example, among the Spumellaria in a portion of the Collosphærida (Siphonosphæra, Caminosphæra, Pls. 6, 7), and of the Prunoidea (Pipetta, Cannartus, &c., Pl. 39, figs. 6-10, &c.), also among the Nassellaria in Theosyringium (Pl. 68, figs. 4-6), Cannobotrys (Pl. 96, figs. 3, 4, 8-11, 20-22), &c. In all these cases, however, the tubes are direct processes of the cavity of the shell, the trabeculæ of the lattice-work being solid. Only in the Cannopylea are the lattice-bars themselves, the radial spines and appendicular organs, generally tubular (hence the designation "Pansolenia"). The lumen of the thin-walled siliceous tubes is filled with jelly, and hence the specific gravity of the relatively large skeleton is considerably diminished. This peculiarity is not found in all Cannopylea; it is wanting in all Sagosphærida and Concharida, as well as in a part of the Orosphærida and Castanellida; in the latter there are found intermediate stages between hollow and solid skeletal rods. Very often a fine siliceous thread runs in the axis of the tubes, which is connected with its wall by lateral branches (Pl. 110, figs. 4, 6; Pl. 115, figs. 6, 7). More seldom the tubes are divided by horizontal septa into a series of chambers (Medusettida, Pls. 118-120). The two families Aulosphærida (Pls. 109-111) and Cannosphærida (Pl. 112) are distinguished from all other Phæodaria by the fact that their tubes are separated by astral septa in the nodal points of the lattice-shell (§§ 112, 134).

128. The Conchoid Skeleton.—By the name "Conchoid skeletons" are distinguished the bivalved lattice-shells which occur exclusively in the legion Phæodaria; they are quite characteristic of the Phæoconchia or Phæodaria bivalvia, which embrace three families:—Concharida (Pls. 123-125), Cœlodendrida (Pls. 121, 122), and Cœlographida (Pls. 126-128). The two valves of the lattice-shell of the Concharida are simple, hemispherical, or boat-shaped, whilst in the Cœlodendrida and Cœlographida tubes grow out from them, which branch and usually give rise by anastomosis to a second external bivalved shell. In all Phæoconchia the two valves are so disposed about the central capsule that an open slit remains between them, into which open the apertures of the central capsule; and since all these Phæodaria conchoidea are Tripylea, with three typical openings in the central capsule, and since the two lateral accessory openings lie at either side of the aboral pole, and the unpaired main-opening at the oral pole of the main axis, it follows that the two valves are to be regarded as dorsal and ventral as in the Brachiopoda (not right and left as in the Lamellibranchiata). The dorsal and ventral {lxxxv}valves are usually equal, but in a portion of the Concharida they present constant differences. In this family the two valves are attached to each other by their free edges, just as in the bivalved Mollusca and Diatoms; and these edges may either be smooth (Conchasmida, Pl. 123, figs. 1-6), or dentate (Conchopsida, Pls. 124, 125); the valvular connection of the latter is sometimes strengthened by a special ligament which unites the two valves at the aboral pole (Pl. 123, figs. 8, 9). The form of the valve is sometimes hemispherical, sometimes boat-shaped, with a sagittal keel.

129. Medullary and Conical Shells.—In all Radiolaria whose skeleton consists of a double shell or of two concentric lattice-shells united by radial bars, an inner medullary shell (testa medullaris) and an outer cortical shell (testa corticalis) may be distinguished (see note A, below). The medullary shell is usually to be regarded as a primary, the cortical as a secondary structure. Such double shells occur among the Spumellaria in the Dyosphærida (Pls. 19, 20), as well as in many Prunoidea (Pls. 39, 40), Discoidea (Pls. 33, 34), and Larcoidea (Pls. 9, 10); among the Acantharia only in the family Phractopeltida (Pl. 133); among the Nassellaria only in very few Cyrtoidea (e.g., Periarachnium, Pl. 55, fig. 11), and finally among the Phæodaria in the Cannosphærida (Pl. 112) as well as in part of the Cœlodendrida (Pl. 121) and Cœlographida (Pls. 127, 128). In most cases (if not always?) the cortical shell arises by the growth of radial spines from the surface of the medullary shell; these become united at equal distances from the centre by transverse apophyses, the surface of the secondary calymma furnishing the basis for their secretion (§ 85). Nevertheless, it seems that in many Sphærellaria the formation of the whole cortical shell proceeds simultaneously (at a definite dictyotic period) like that of the primary medullary shell (see note B). Whilst in the Phæodaria, Acantharia, and Nassellaria, at most two concentric shells are formed, in many Spumellaria their number increases continuously with additional growth; in many Sphærellaria it rises to four, eight, or even more, as well as in many Discoidea (if the concentric, peripherally disposed rings of chambers be regarded as incomplete flattened shells). In these cases either only the innermost primary lattice-shell is to be styled "medullary shell," or at most the two innermost (inner and outer medullary shells), all the others being cortical.

A. The distinction between medullary and cortical shells was originally based in my Monograph (1862, p. 50) upon the topographical relation of the lattice-shells to the central capsule, inasmuch as I regarded all intracapsular shells as medullary, all extracapsular as cortical. Hertwig, however (1879, p. 122), rightly pointed out that this distinction is unpractical, "because the same lattice-shell in the same species may lie within or without the central capsule, according to the size of the latter." He proposes, therefore, to restrict the term medullary shell to the innermost, and to call all the others cortical; a course which seems justified by the special significance of the primary innermost lattice-shell ("as the point of origin of the radial spines"). But in most Sphærellaria which form three or more concentric shells, the two innermost, which lie near together within the {lxxxvi}central capsule, are very different in size and dictyosis from all the others which lie outside, and are separated by wider interspaces (compare Pls. 17, 24, 29-32, 40, &c.). In these cases it appears better to regard the two inner as inner and outer medullary shells, and all the others as cortical shells. The character of the dictyosis in the intracapsular and extracapsular shells is often so different that I have made it the basis of separation of Thecosphæra and Rhodosphæra among the Liosphærida (p. 60), of Elatommatida and Diplosphærida among the Astrosphærida (p. 208), &c.

B.—R. Hertwig (1879, L. N. 33, pp. 40, 123) separates the true (simultaneously formed) "cortical shells" (e.g., of Actinomma, Cromyomma) from the arachnoid "siliceous networks" (e.g., of Diplosphæra and Arachnosphæra) which are formed by the successive union of tangential apophyses of the radial spines. Whether this principle is right in the theory or not, it cannot be carried out practically. Compare also Pl. 25, fig. 4.

130. Dictyosis or Lattice Formation of the Skeleton.—In the great majority of Radiolaria the dictyosis or formation of lattice-work, and especially the formation of a variously-shaped "lattice-shell," plays such an important part that the whole class has long been popularly known in Germany by the name "lattice animalcules" ("Gitterthierchen" or "Gitterlinge") (Protista dictyota). The old name Polycystina also (1838), although referring only to the Spumellaria and Nassellaria, is derived from the lattice-work of the siliceous skeleton. The extremely various forms in which this is manifested furnish the means of distinguishing species. The specific conformation of the skeletal lattice-work is usually caused by the special disposition of the sarcodictyum (§ 94), whose exoplasmatic threads become silicified or (in the Acantharia) converted into bars of acanthin. In many cases, however, the form of the lattice is mainly dependent upon the situation and form of the radial spines or of special processes from them. With respect to their origin, two varieties of lattice may be distinguished—simultaneous and successive. Simultaneous dictyosis occurs especially in the simple lattice-shells of the Sphærellaria and Phæodaria, where, at a given moment ("dictyotic moment") the whole lattice of the shell is excreted on the surface of the calymma. Successive dictyosis, on the other hand, is found more particularly in the lattice-shells of the Acantharia (and in the concentric cortical shells of many Sphærellaria), which develop from the separate lattice-plates formed by the apophyses of the radial spines, and hence not at the same moment. The lattice-shells of the Cyrtellaria, which gradually grow out from a sagittal ring or a basal tripod, arise by successive dictyosis.

131. Dictyosis of the Spumellaria.—Siliceous lattice-structures are wanting in the first section of the Spumellaria, the Collodaria, but in the second section, Sphærellaria, they are developed in extraordinary variety of details. In spite of this extreme richness in different forms, the lattice-shells of the Spumellaria may all be derived from one and the same primitive ground-form, a simple lattice-sphere with regular hexagonal meshes (Phormosphæra, p. 61, Pl. 12, figs. 9-11; Heliosphæra, &c.). {lxxxvii}The siliceous bars which bound these regular and subregular meshes are at first exceedingly then and filiform; afterwards they become thicker or spread out laterally, whence the meshes often become round with a hexagonal frame (Pl. 12, fig. 5; Pl. 28, fig. 1). If the latter vanish, a lattice-shell with simple circular meshes is formed. Very commonly the regular form of the meshes or pores becomes more or less irregular, polygonal, or roundish. Hence, in general, four different principal forms of dictyosis may be distinguished among the Spumellaria; viz. (1) regular or subregular hexagonal meshes; (2) regular or subregular circular meshes; (3) irregular polygonal meshes; (4) irregular roundish meshes. The three latter forms are to be regarded as secondary, derived from the primary first form. In those Spumellaria which possess several concentric lattice-shells enclosed one within another, either these have all the same form of dictyosis, or the lattice-work of the innermost primary shell is different from that of the outer secondary shells (Pls. 19, 20); sometimes these latter also differ more or less among themselves (§ 129).

132. Dictyosis of the Acantharia.—The lattice-structures of the Acantharia differ essentially from those of other Radiolaria in several particulars. Firstly, they consist not of silica but of acanthin (§ 102); secondly, they are always secondary formations, usually developed from transverse processes of the primary centrogenous radial spines; thirdly, their formation is not simultaneous (at the same time over the same shell), but successive (proceeding from the individual radial spines tangentially towards the middle of the intervals); fourthly, the configuration of the network is due to the relative position of the spines and the mode of union of their transverse apophyses. Since they are at right angles to the spines, and since the branches of the apophyses are at right angles to them, the original ground-form of their dictyosis is a lattice-work with quadrangular meshes; these are often quite regular and square (Pl. 130, figs. 5, 6; Pl. 136, figs. 2, 9, &c.); more commonly they are rectangular or irregularly quadrangular (Pl. 131, fig. 10; Pl. 133, figs. 2, 3, &c.). In the majority of the Acantharia the quadrangular form of the meshes passes over into an irregularly polygonal or roundish one (Pls. 137, 138). Very often the primary meshes of the lattice-shells, which immediately surround the radial spines, are larger and more regular ("aspinal pores"), whilst the numerous secondary meshes between them are smaller and irregular ("coronal pores"; Pl. 135, figs. 1-4, &c.).

133. Dictyosis of the Nassellaria.—The siliceous lattice-structures of the Nassellaria are formed on the whole like those of the Spumellaria, with which they were formerly united under the name "Polycystina." In this group also there may be distinguished as two main forms the regular and irregular. In the Nassellaria the regular lattice-structures generally exhibit hexagonal or circular meshes, whilst the irregular are either polygonal or roundish; the irregular forms are, however, much more abundant than the {lxxxviii}regular, and a further distinction from the Spumellaria consists in the fact that the primary skeletal elements, from which the lattice is secondarily developed, exercise a predominant influence upon their form. These primary elements in the majority of the Nassellaria are to be seen in two morphologically most important structures:—first, the primary sagittal ring, which embraces the central capsule in the median plane (§ 124); and secondly, the basal tripod (§ 125), whose three diverging rays proceed from the base of the central capsule, whilst commonly a fourth vertical ray supports the dorsal side of latter (compare Pls. 81-91, p. 892). In the majority of the Nassellaria these two primary elements appear in combination, whilst in others only one of them is recognisable. In addition there occur numerous monaxon lattice-shells in which neither of these elements can be recognised, but a simple ovoid lattice-shell (cephalis) alone forms the whole skeleton or its primary part (Pl. 51, fig. 13; Pl. 98, fig. 13). The great difficulty in the morphological interpretation and phylogenetic derivation of the Nassellarian skeleton lies in the fact that each of these three elements—the primary sagittal ring, the basal tripod, and the latticed cephalis—may form the whole skeleton by itself or be combined with one or both of the others (p. 893). Even nearly related or at all events very similar forms may differ very greatly in this respect. With regard to the manifold forms of their dictyosis it follows that it is partly dependent upon one of the two first elements, partly independent. In the Plectellaria (or those Nassellaria which do not possess a complete lattice-shell) the lattice-work is usually irregular and arises by union of the ramifications, which proceed either from the primary sagittal ring (Pls. 81, 82, 92-94) or from the basal tripod (Pl. 91). In the Cyrtellaria (or Nassellaria with a complete lattice-shell, Pls. 51-80), on the other hand, the lattice-work is sometimes regular, sometimes irregular, being often very different in the different joints of a segmented shell (Pl. 72); a great part of it arises independently of the two chief morphological elements, and develops according to laws similar to those which regulate the dictyosis of the Spumellaria.

134. Dictyosis of the Phæodaria.—The lattice-structures of the Phæodaria, which consist of a silicate of carbon (§ 102), are on the whole not developed in such variety as those of the other Radiolaria, but exhibit several essentially different types of structure, not reducible to a common primitive type of lattice-work. In one portion of this legion there occurs an ordinary simple lattice-work (as in Spumellaria and Nassellaria), with solid trabeculæ; of these the Castanellida (Pl. 113) and Concharida (Pls. 123-125) have usually regular or subregular, circular meshes, sometimes hexagonally framed; the Orosphærida (Pls. 106, 107) large irregular polygonal meshes with thick trabeculæ, the Sagosphærida (Pl. 108) large triangular meshes with thin filiform trabeculæ. The Challengerida (Pl. 99) are characterised by a very delicate regular lattice-work, with minute hexagonal pores, like a Diatomaceous frustule. The Medusettida (Pls. 118-120) {lxxxix}show a peculiar alveolar structure, numerous small compartments being enclosed between two parallel plates. In the Circoporida (Pls. 114-117) and Tuscarorida (Pl. 100) the opaque porcellanous shell has a peculiar cement structure (§ 104), and the lattice-structure is confined for the most part to characteristic rings of pores at the base of the hollow tubes, which arise from the shell. The most peculiar lattice-work, however, appears in the segmented shell of the Aulosphærida (Pls. 109-111) and Cannosphærida (Pl. 112). In the former the large meshes of the lattice-work are usually subregular and triangular, in the latter polygonal; the trabeculæ are hollow cylinders, filled with jelly, and containing usually a central axial thread. In each nodal point of the lattice, in which three or more tangential tubes meet, these are separated by stellate or astral septa.

135. Radial Spines of the Skeleton.—The skeleton in the great majority of Radiolaria is armed with radial spines, which are of great importance in the development of their general form and of their vital functions. From a morphological point of view the number, arrangement, and disposition of the spines is usually the determining factor as regards the general form of the skeleton. Physiologically they discharge distinct functions, as organs of protection and support; they act also, like the tentacles of the lower animals, as prehensile organs, since their points, lateral branches, barbed hooks, &c. serve to hold fast nutritive materials. In general main-spines and accessory spines may be distinguished in most Radiolaria; the former are of pre-eminent importance in determining the figure of the skeleton; the latter are merely appendicular organs. The main-spines present such characteristic and important differences in the various legions of Radiolaria that they must be considered separately.

136. Radial Spines of the Spumellaria.—The radial spines, which exhibit most manifold variations in the large order Sphærellaria, present characteristic differences in its four suborders. In the Sphæroidea their number and disposition serve for the separation into families (p. 59); the Cubosphærida (Pls. 21-25) always possess six radial main-spines, which stand opposite to each other in pairs and lie in three diameters of the shell, which are at right angles to each other and correspond to the axes of the regular crystallographic system. The Staurosphærida (Pl. 15) have four spines, which form a regular cross and stand opposite to each other in pairs, in two axes at right angles. The Stylosphærida (Pls. 13-17) show only two main-spines, which are opposed to each other in the vertical main axis of the body. Finally, the Astrosphærida (Pls. 18-20, 26-30) are characterised by a larger and variable number of radial spines (eight, twelve, twenty or more), sometimes regularly, sometimes irregularly arranged. Among the other Sphærellaria the Prunoidea (Pls. 13-17, 39, 40) are most allied to the Stylosphærida with two opposite main-spines; the Discoidea (Pls. 31-47), on the other hand, to the Staurosphærida with four crossed spines; there exist, however, Discoidea with two opposite, three marginal, or numerous radial main-spines; it is {xc}characteristic of this suborder that they all usually lie in the horizontal median plane of the lenticular shell, arising from its equatorial margin. The Larcoidea (Pls. 9, 10, 49, 50) show a great variety in the number and arrangement of their radial main-spines, which in the different families of this suborder stand in direct causal relation to the various forms of growth of the shell; usually the primary main-spines lie either in the three different dimensive axes, at right angles to each other, whose differentiation is characteristic of the lentelliptical Larcoid shell (§§ 34, 122) or in definite diagonal axes, which cut the former obliquely. The radial spines of the Spumellaria are never united in the centre of the body, but arise separately from the surface of the primary central lattice-shell (medullary shell), more rarely from one of the secondary (cortical) shells, which enclose it. Their form is originally three-edged (sometimes pyramidal, sometimes prismatic); the cause of this is to be found in their origin from the nodal points of the lattice-shell, whose meshes are primitively hexagonal; hence three trabeculæ unite in each nodal point, and are produced into three edges of the spine. Very commonly, however, the spines are round (conical or cylindrical), more rarely polygonal. The three edges are often delicately toothed, not unfrequently spirally twisted around the axis of the spine (Pl. 21, figs. 1, 12).

137. Radial Spines of the Acantharia.—The radial spines of this legion have a much greater significance than in the other three classes of Radiolaria, since here alone they are the primary determining factors in the skeletal structure, and grow outwards from the middle of the central capsule. This centrogenous origin of the radial spines is as characteristic of the Acantharia as their chemical constitution, which is not siliceous but acanthinic (§ 102). Furthermore, their form is in most cases so peculiar that even an isolated Acantharian spine can be generally distinguished from one belonging to either of the other three legions. In the great majority of the Acantharia (all Acanthonida and Acanthophracta) twenty radial spines are constantly present, which, disposed according to a definite geometrical law, make up the skeleton (compare § 110 above and p. 717). The twenty spines are generally simply apposed to each other in the centre (either by the surfaces or the edges of their pyramidal base); more rarely they are completely united and form a single star-like piece of acanthin (Astrolithium). Very rarely (Acanthochiasma) each two opposite spines are united so that ten diametric bars cross in the middle of the central capsule. Whilst in the great majority of Acantharia these twenty radial spines are present, the small group Actinelida is characterised by the possession of an inconstant, often very large number, sometimes over one hundred. Among these Actinelida are probably to be found the stem-forms of the whole legion. The variously modified spines of the Acantharia may be grouped in three main categories: (1) round (cylindrical or conical); (2) four-edged (prismatic or pyramidal); (3) two-edged (leaf- or sword-shaped). The latter very commonly bear two {xci}opposite transverse processes, the former four crossed ones. By ramification and union of these apophyses arise the lattice-shells of the Acanthophracta (excepting the Sphærocapsida).

138. Radial Spines of the Nassellaria.—The radial spines in this legion show as great a variety in their form as in the Spumellaria, and, as in them, are solid, siliceous bars, usually three-edged (prismatic or pyramidal), or round (cylindrical or conical); more seldom they are polygonal in section. The great majority of the Nassellaria are, however, distinguished by a triradial structure, three primary radial bars diverging from the base of the central capsule (usually from the centre of the porochora); there is usually in addition a fourth apical spine, which passes upwards vertically or obliquely on the dorsal aspect of the central capsule. These three or four typical radial spines of the Nassellaria may be derived with great probability from the basal tripod of the Plectoidea (Plagoniscus, Plectaniscus, &c., Pl. 91); and since this tripod is very characteristically combined in Cortina and Cortiniscus with the primary sagittal ring of the Stephoidea, the three typical rays may be generally designated "cortinar feet," in contradistinction to the other radial processes of the Nassellarian skeleton. One of the three descending basal feet ("pes caudalis," Pls. 91-95, C) is always unpaired, and lies in the vertical median plane (or sagittal plane), just as does the vertically directed apical spine, which originally forms the dorsal bar of the sagittal ring, and is produced upwards into the "apical horn," (marked a on the plates). The other two basal feet are paired, and diverge right and left, forwards and downwards ("pedes pectorales," p.p.). Six-rayed Nassellaria, in which three secondary (interradial) feet are intercalated between the three primary (perradial) cortinar feet, are less common than the three-rayed forms. In some groups the number rises still higher, nine, twelve, or even more secondary feet being intercalated between the three primary. Besides, accessory radial spines may be developed on different parts of the shell, which have sometimes a definite relationship to the typical radial spines, sometimes not. Their form and ramification are very various (Pls. 51-98).

139. Radial Spines of the Phæodaria.—The radial spines of the Phæodaria are very clearly distinguished from those of other Radiolaria by the fact that they are usually hollow tubes, rarely solid bars. As a rule, the tubes are cylindrical, often slightly fusiform or conical, their siliceous wall is very thin, and their lumen filled with jelly; a fine thread of silica usually runs in the axis, and in several families is connected by fine transverse threads with the wall of the tube (Pl. 110, figs. 4, 6; Pl. 115, figs. 6, 7). The peculiar family Medusettida is characterised by a very remarkable segmentation of the hollow spines (Pls. 118-120). Each tube is divided by a series of septa into chambers, which communicate by a central or excentric opening in each septum, an arrangement resembling the siphuncle of the chambered Cephalopod shells. The number and {xcii}arrangement of the radial tubes in most Phæodaria is indefinite and very variable; only in a few families is the number constant in each species and genus, and the disposition regular. The Medusettida (Pls. 118-120) resemble the Nassellaria, inasmuch as equal radial feet diverge from the base of their shell, sometimes three in number (Cortinetta, Pl. 117, fig. 9), sometimes four (Medusetta, Pl. 120, figs. 1-4), sometimes six (Gazelletta); Gorgonetta is specially distinguished by the possession of six ascending and six descending spines regularly alternating (Pl. 119). The Tuscarorida (Pl. 100) usually have three or four equidistant feet. The Circoporida (Pls. 115-117), on the other hand, rather approach the Sphæroidea, their spherical or regular polyhedral shell having a definite number of tubular radial spines, which arise at regular intervals from their angles; Circoporus has six, Circospathis nine, Circogonia twelve, and Circorrhegma twenty radial tubes. Very rarely the tubes of the Phæodaria are angular, usually they are round, more or less cylindrical, though they are often bifurcated or even ramified, and exhibit a great wealth of the most delicate appendages; siliceous hairs, bristles, spines, barbed or anchor-like hooks, spathillæ, brushes, circlets, &c. (compare Pls. 99-128).

140. Main-Spines and Accessory Spines.—As accessory spines (Paracanthæ) we oppose to the main-spines (Protacanthæ), just described, all those processes which have no determining influence upon the formation of the skeleton as a whole, but are to be regarded as secondary constituents of the skeleton, or appendicular organs of inferior significance. They are developed in the utmost variety, sometimes as hairs or bristles, sometimes as thorns or clubs, either straight or curved (often zigzag), smooth or barbed; sometimes standing vertically upon the shell, or directed towards the centre, sometimes obliquely, or rising at a definite angle. In those Spumellaria whose lattice-shell consists of several concentric spheres, the accessory spines generally arise from the outermost, the main-spines, on the contrary, from the innermost. In the Nassellaria, multifarious forms of accessory spines are especially developed in the order Plectellaria. In the Phæodaria they are often furnished with delicate appendages, e.g., anchor-hooks, spathillæ, coronets, &c. Among the Acantharia the accessory spines which arise from the surface of the shell in the Acanthophracta are very characteristic. They are not radially disposed (like the similar superficial spines of the Spumellaria), but parallel to the radial main-spines from whose transverse processes they arise. Since in all these Acanthophracta the twenty radial main-spines are opposite to each other in pairs, all the accessory spines (often several hundred) are parallel to ten different regularly disposed axes of the lattice-shell (Pls. 134-138).

The skeletons of the Radiolaria, in addition to the general relations which have been discussed above, present numerous and important special differences in the various larger and smaller groups. These are indicated in detail in the descriptions of the legions, orders, and families in the systematic portion of this Report.

BIOGENETICAL SECTION.

A SKETCH OF OUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE RADIOLARIA IN THE YEAR 1884.

Chapter V.—ONTOGENY OR INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT.

(§§ 141-152.)

141. Individual Developmental Stages.—The germinal history of the Radiolaria presents great obstacles to direct observation, and hence is very incompletely known. The fragmentary observations, however (having been made on Radiolaria of very various groups and supplemented by comparative anatomical considerations), allow us to draw a general picture of the essential developmental processes in this great class. It may probably be assumed that in all Radiolaria, after maturation, the central capsule discharges the function of a sporangium, and its contents are broken up into numerous flagellate swarm-spores (zoospores). After these flagellate swarm-spores (resembling Astasia) have emerged from the ruptured central capsule, they probably pass over into a Heliozoan-stage (Actinophrys) and then after the formation of a jelly-veil into the condition of Sphærastrum. Afterwards, when a membrane is formed between the outer jelly-veil and the inner nucleated cell-body, an Actissa-stage arises, which exhibits in its simplest form the differentiation of the spherical unicellular body into the central capsule and calymma. Actissa thus represents both ontogenetically and phylogenetically the primitive condition of the Radiolarian organism, and may thus be regarded as the point of departure of all other forms.

142. The Astasia-Stage.—The formation of flagellate zoospores in the mature central capsule is probably to be regarded as the common form of individual development in all Radiolaria; since the whole contents are utilised in the formation of these swarm-spores, and since the extracapsulum takes no share in the process and perishes after they are evacuated, the central capsule may be regarded as a sporangium (see note A, below). The zoospores of the Radiolaria generally arise in the following way:—the nucleus of the unicellular organism, sometimes early, sometimes late (and in several different ways, §§ 63-70) breaks up into numerous small nuclei, and each of these surrounds itself with a small portion of the endoplasm. Very often, perhaps generally, this endoplasm contains one or several fat-granules and sometimes also a small oblong crystal; from the protoplasm {xciv}of the small roundish or ovoid cells protrudes one or more vibratile flagella. The fully developed spores, which commence their vibrations even within the central capsule, emerge when it ruptures, and swim about freely in the surrounding water by means of the flagellum. At this stage of its existence the young Radiolarian represents essentially the simplest form of the Flagellata, such as Astasia or Euglena; the unicellular body is for the most part ovoid or subcylindrical, sometimes fusiform or reniform, usually from 0.004 to 0.008 mm. in diameter (Pl. 1, fig. 1c; Pl. 129, fig. 11). In the anterior part of the flagellate cell, immediately behind the base of the flagellum, lies a homogeneous, spherical nucleus, whilst in the posterior part are usually several small fat-granules and often also a small oblong crystal (hence the name "crystal-spore," "Krystall-Schwärmer"). The number of vibrating flagella, which are extremely long and fine, seems to be variable, usually one, sometimes two, occasionally perhaps three, or even four or more (see note B).

A. The formation of the motile spores in the central capsule was first observed by J. Müller in Acanthometra (1856, L. N. 10, p. 502), then by A. Schneider in Thalassicolla (1858, L. N. 13, p. 41), and finally by myself in Sphærozoum (1859, L. N. 16, p. 141). These older observations were, however, incomplete, for the origin of the motile corpuscles from the contents of the central capsule was not observed. The first complete and detailed observations upon the formation of spores in the Radiolaria were published in 1871 by Cienkowski (L. N. 22, p. 372, Taf. xxix.); they relate to two different Polycyttaria, Collosphæra and Collozoum. These investigations were supplemented by R. Hertwig on Collozoum and Thalassicolla (1876, L. N. 26, pp. 28, 43, &c.); on Collozoum he made the important discovery that the Polycyttaria form two kinds of spores, one with and the other without crystals, and that the latter are divided into macrospores and microspores (compare the chapter on "Reproduction," §§ 212-216). Quite recently Karl Brandt has confirmed these observations, and has extended them to all the genera of Polycyttaria (1881, L. N. 38, p. 393, and 1885, loc. cit.).

B. The number of flagella, projecting from each spore, is very difficult to determine, owing to their extraordinary length and slenderness. It appeared to me that in the majority of those Radiolaria whose spores I investigated only a single flagellum could be demonstrated with certainty, although sometimes two, springing from a common base, seemed to be present. Compare the chapter on "Reproduction," (§ 215) and the recent work of Karl Brandt on Sphærozoea (1885, L. N. 52, pp. 145-174).

143. The Actinophrys-Stage.—The fate of the flagellate zoospores which emerge from the mature central capsule of the Radiolaria has not hitherto been decided by actual observation; all attempts to rear the swarming zoospores have been in vain, for they have soon died. From what we know, however, of the comparative morphology of the Protista, the hypothesis is fully justified, that between the Astasia-stage of the flagellate swarm-spores, and the well-known Actissa-stage of the simplest Radiolaria, there lies an intermediate developmental stage, which may be regarded as being essentially the simplest Heliozoan form, Actinophrys or Heterophrys. The swarm-spore is very probably converted directly in to a simple floating Heliozoon by its elongated or ovoid body {xcv}becoming spherical and by fine pseudopodia protruding all round instead of a single flagellum; the nucleus at the same time assuming a central position.

144. The Sphærastrum-Stage.—The Actinophrys-stage of the young Radiolaria, which proceeds immediately from the flagellate zoospore, is probably connected with the Actissa-stage by an intermediate form, which may be regarded as a simple skeletonless Heliozoon with a jelly-veil; a well-known example of such a form is Sphærastrum (in the solitary, not the social condition) and Heterophrys. This important intermediate form has arisen from the simple Actinophrys-stage by the excretion of an external structureless jelly-veil, such as is formed in many other Protista (e.g., in the encystation of many Infusoria). The young Radiolarian in this second Heliozoon-stage becomes a simple cell with pseudopodia radiating on all sides; its body consists of three concentric spheres, the central nucleus, the protoplasmic body proper, and the surrounding calymma or jelly-veil. When a firm membrane is developed between the last two spheres this Sphærastrum-stage passes over into the Actissa.

The gap in our empirical knowledge which still exists between the flagellate stage (§ 142) and the simplest Radiolarian stage (Actissa, § 145), can be filled hypothetically only by the assumption of several Heliozoon-stages following one upon another. It is possible also that the capsule-membrane is not formed between the endoplasm and exoplasm (as here supposed), but that the membrane was formed first outside the cell and the extracapsulum subsequently secreted around it.

145. The Actissa-Stage.—The first Spumellarian genus, Actissa, is not only the simplest form actually observed among the Radiolaria, and the true prototype of the whole class, but also the simplest form under which the Radiolarian organisation can be conceived. It is therefore extremely probably that Actissa not only forms the common stem-form of the whole class in a phylogenetic sense, but is also its common ontogenetic or germinal form. Probably in all Radiolaria the Sphærastrum-stage develops immediately into the typical Actissa-stage, by the formation of a firm membrane between the protoplasmic body of the spherical Heliozoan cell and its jelly-veil. Thus arises the characteristic central capsule, which is wanting in the nearly related Heliozoa. It is further probable that all Radiolaria in their early stage will so far conform to the state of things in Actissa as to have the capsule-membrane of the spherical skeletonless cell perforated everywhere by fine pores. This structure is retained in all Spumellaria, whilst in the other three legions those structural relations of the capsule which are characteristic of each develop from the Actissa-stage.

146. The Ontogeny of the Spumellaria.—In the simplest case the individual development in the Spumellaria ceases with the Actissa-stage. In all other genera of this legion diverging forms proceed from this, of which the different growth of the three dimensive {xcvi}axes on the one hand (§§ 44, 45), and the differentiation of the various parts of the unicellular organism with the formation of the skeleton on the other, are of pre-eminent significance. Even in the varying growth of the central capsule in the different dimensions of space in the skeletonless Colloidea, four different modes may be distinguished, which further, in the corresponding development of the skeleton, furnish the basis for the origin of the four orders of Sphærellaria. The most primitive and simplest form of growth, equal extension in all directions, is found in the spherical central capsule and the concentric spherical skeletons (Procyttarium, Sphæroidea). When the growth of the central capsule proceeds more rapidly in the direction of the vertical main axis than in any other direction, the ellipsoidal or cylindrical central capsule (Actiprunum) arises, and the vertically elongated skeleton of the Prunoidea, which is derived from it. When, on the contrary, the growth of the central capsule and lattice-shell is less in the direction of the vertical main axis than in any other direction, the lenticular or discoid central capsule (Actidiscus) arises, and the corresponding lenticular shell of the Discoidea. Finally, even quite early in many Spumellaria, the growth of the central capsule and of the corresponding lattice-shell in the three dimensive axes is different, and hence arise the lentelliptical forms whose geometrical type is the triaxial ellipsoid or the rhombic octahedron (Actilarcus, Larcoidea). Thus the origin of the four orders of Sphærellaria is simply explained by a varying growth in the different dimensive axes. The primary (innermost) lattice-shell is in this legion always simultaneously developed (suddenly excreted at the moment of lorication from the sarcodictyum). The secondary lattice-shells, on the other hand, which surround the former concentrically, and are united with it by radial bars, arise successively from within outwards.

147. The Ontogeny of the Acantharia.—The individual development of the Acantharia in the simplest case (Actinelius) stops at a point which differs from the Actissa-stage only in the change of radial axial threads into acanthin spines. In the small group Actinelida, their number remains variable and usually indeterminate (Adelacantha), whilst in the great majority of the legion (Acanthonida and Acanthophracta) the number is constantly twenty, and those spines are regularly arranged according to the Müllerian law in five parallel circles, each containing four crossed spines (Icosacantha). The simplest form among these latter is Acanthometron, which may be regarded both ontogenetically and phylogenetically as the common starting-point of all the Icosacantha. Within this extensive group variations in the length of the dimensive axes appear, similar to those observed in the Spumellaria. In the Astrolonchida and Sphærophracta the central capsule remains spherical, extending equally in all directions; and correspondingly the lattice-shell, which is excreted on the surface of the spherical calymma, remains spherical. In the Belonaspida (just as in the Prunoidea) {xcvii}this form passes over into an ellipsoid by prolongation of one axis; on the contrary, in the Hexalaspida (as in the Discoidea) the discoidal or lenticular form arises by shortening of an axis. Finally, in the Diploconida, and in some Hexalaspida in which the growth is different in all three dimensive axes (as in the Larcoidea), both the central capsule and the shell assume the lentelliptical form. The lattice-shell of the Acanthophracta is usually successive in its development, since from each of the twenty radial spines two or four tangential apophyses proceed, whose branches subsequently unite and combine to form the lattice-shell. Only in the peculiar Sphærocapsida can the pavement-like shell arise simultaneously or in a moment of lorication.

148. The Ontogeny of the Nassellaria.—The individual development of the Nassellaria in the simplest instance remains stationary at the skeletonless Nasselid stage (Cystidium, Nassella), which can be immediately derived from the foregoing Actissa-stage by the disappearance of the pores in the upper (apical) hemisphere of the central capsule, whilst in the lower (basal) portion they are modified to form a porochora; the podoconus is developed within the endoplasm upon this latter. Usually the spherical form of the central capsule passes over into an ovoid or ellipsoidal one, the vertical axis which passes through the centre of the porochora being elongated. From the skeletonless Nassellida the other Nassellaria may be derived both ontogenetically and phylogenetically by the excretion of an extracapsular siliceous skeleton. Unfortunately, the earliest stages in the formation of this skeleton are unknown, and hence no answer can at present be given to the important question, in what order the three primary skeletal elements of the Nassellaria (the basal tripod, sagittal ring, and latticed cephalis) appear (compare §§ 111 and 182). If, for example, in Cortina and Tripospyris the basal tripod were to appear first in the ontogeny, and the sagittal ring were developed from this, then the Plectoidea would be rightly considered to be the oldest forms in the phylogeny of the skeleton-forming Nassellaria; and in the contrary case the Stephoidea would be so regarded. The relations of growth in the three dimensive axes are very variable in the Nassellaria; the three most important factors in this respect (partly separately and partly in combination) are; (1) the development of the basal tripod to a triradial stauraxon form (the ground-form being a three-sided pyramid); (2) the development of the sagittal ring in the median plane of the body (the vertical axis having the poles different); (3) the development of the latticed cephalis outside the central capsule (the poles of the vertical axis being again different). Since the development both of the skeleton and of the malacoma is characterised in most Nassellaria by the stronger growth of the vertical axis and the differentiation of the two poles, the allopolar monaxon ground-form acquires a predominant significance in this legion (§ 32); the starting point of most of the further modifications is the basal pole of the vertical main axis. Next to this the sagittal axis is usually the most important determining factor (its dorsal and ventral poles being {xcviii}usually different), more rarely the frontal axis (with equal right and left poles). In the zygothalamous Spyroidea (as in the Stephoidea) the formation of the shell proceeds from the sagittal ring, whilst in the polythalamous Cyrtoidea the latticed cephalis is always the starting point, from which a series of joints (thorax, abdomen, and in the Stichocyrtida, the numerous post-abdominal joints) successively arise (unipolar growth).

149. The Ontogeny of the Phæodaria.—The individual development of the Phæodaria in the simplest case stops with the skeletonless condition of the Phæodinida (Phæodina, Phæocolla), which can be immediately derived from the foregoing Actissa-stage by the disappearance of the pores in the greater part of the central capsule, the characteristic astropyle being developed at the basal pole (§ 60). Since this particular form and structure of the spheroidal central capsule remains the same in all Phæodaria, whilst the formation of their skeleton follows very different directions, it follows that further common paths of development are excluded both ontogenetically and phylogenetically. What will be laid down in this respect as regards the phylogeny of the different groups of Phæodaria (§§ 194-199) holds true also of their ontogeny. The relations of growth in the three dimensive axes are hence very different in the skeletons of the various groups of Phæodaria. This difference is best marked in the Phæoconchia, whose bivalved lattice-shells have as their ground-form the rhomboid pyramid of Ctenophora. In most Phæogromia the monaxon lattice-shell may develop simultaneously by sudden excretion at a particular moment of lorication; this is also the case with the polyaxon lattice-shells of the Phæosphæria. In their future growth the development of basal or radial apophyses is of special importance. In the majority of the Phæodaria these apophyses are tubes of silicate filled with jelly (often provided with an axial siliceous thread); thus their development is distinguished by complications which are absent in the case of the other three legions.

150. Growth.—The growth of the body in the Radiolaria, as in all other organisms, is the fundamental function of individual development (see note A). All structural relations which this richest class of the Protista exhibits may be referred to different forms of growth, either of the unicellular malacoma or of the skeleton which it produces. In general the special development of the skeleton is dependent upon that of the central capsule, and of the sarcodictyum on the surface of the calymma; in the further growth, however, the conditions are reversed, and the condition of the skeleton already formed directly determines the further development of the central capsule and of the calymma with its sarcodictyum. The four legions of Radiolaria show, speaking generally, certain characteristic differences in growth, which are due in great part to the different structure and ground-form of their central capsule. In the two legions of the Porulosa (Spumellaria and Acantharia), in which the central capsule is originally spherical and {xcix}the ground-form of the skeleton either polyaxon or isopolar monaxon, two fundamental and variously combined directions of growth are recognisable; firstly, the concentric growth (equal increase of volume in all directions), and secondly, multipolar or diametral growth (hypertrophy of certain parts in the direction of definite pairs of radii). A different state of things obtains, however, for the most part, in the two legions of the Osculosa (Nassellaria and Phæodaria), in which the central capsule possesses a vertical main axis with different poles, and the structure of the skeleton is determined by this allopolar monaxon ground-form. The two fundamental directions of growth here combined in the most various ways are, firstly, unipolar growth (starting from the basal pole of the vertical main axis), and secondly, radial or pyramidal growth (characterised by the different development of separate parts in the direction of definite radii). Whilst the growth of the malacoma is dependent on intussusception (as in most organic structures capable of imbibing), the growth of the skeleton in all Radiolaria takes place by apposition (see note B).

A. The earliest investigations into the modes of growth in the Radiolaria are due to J. Müller (L. N. 12, pp. 21-33). More detailed communications I gave myself in my Monograph (L. N. 16, pp. 150-159). The relations there sketched have now, in consequence of the examination of the Challenger collection, undergone many important additions, and in some divisions, important modifications; these are for the most part treated of in the general account of the separate families.

B. The view here maintained, that the skeleton of all Radiolaria grows only by apposition, appeared formerly to have certain exceptions. I thought I had shown that in Cœlodendrum the thin-walled tubes grew not only in length but also in thickness, with continuous increase in the lumen (L. N. 16, pp. 152, 360). Further K. Brandt concluded, from the varying size of the median bars in the twin-spicules of Sphærozoum, that these siliceous structures grow by intussusception (L. N. 38, p. 401). Both suppositions have been proved erroneous and I have come to the opinion that in all Radiolaria the skeleton grows by apposition.

151. Regeneration.—Whilst the general course of individual development (perhaps without any exception in the Radiolaria), begins with the formation of zoospores in the central capsule, there yet occurs in some groups a different form of ontogeny, introduced by simple division of the unicellular organism, and coming under the term "regeneration" in its wider sense. This spontaneous division occurs quite commonly in the Polycyttaria (or social Spumellaria), and produces their colonies (compare the chapter on Reproduction, § 213). On the contrary, it has not been observed in the solitary Spumellaria, nor in the Acantharia and Nassellaria; possibly, however, the peculiar Acantharian family, Litholophida, has arisen by the division of Acanthonida (compare p. 734). Among the Phæodaria division is commonly observed in the order Phæocystina (which have an incomplete Beloid skeleton or none), and also in the Phæoconchia. In all these cases the increase by division is nothing else than an ordinary case of cell-division, in which bisection of the nucleus precedes that of the central capsule. The regeneration by {c}which each of the two daughter-cells develops to a complete mother-cell depends upon simple growth. Another form of regeneration, different from this, has been observed in Thalassicolla. If the central capsule be extracted artificially from the large concentric calymma, the enucleated central capsule produces a new extracapsulum, with sarcomatrix, pseudopodia, and calymma. This experiment may be repeated several times with the same result. (Compare A. Schneider, 1867, L. N. 20.)

152. The Formation of Colonies.—The individual development of colonies takes place in all three families of the Polycyttaria (Collozoida, Sphærozoida, Collosphærida) in the same simple way, by the repeated division of a single monozootic Spumellarian. Since these divisions only affect the central capsule and not the extracapsulum, the sister-cells, which arise by repeated division of the mother, remain enclosed in a common rapidly growing calymma. Probably in all Polycyttaria the commencement of the formation of colonies immediately follows the Actissa-stage of the monozootic mother-cell (or takes place in the Thalassicolla-stage, which arises from the former by the development of alveoles in the calymma). The simple central nucleus separates (by direct nuclear division) into two halves, and the central capsule follows this process of bisection, becoming constricted in the middle between the two daughter nuclei (Pl. 3, fig. 12). In the further growth of the colony the process of division proceeds in the older, now multinucleate, central capsules, in which an oil-globule has taken the place of the original nucleus; then the division of the oil-globules precedes that of the central capsule (Pl. 5, fig. 1). Another mode of growth of the colonies is the multiplication of the central capsules by gemmulation, or the formation of the so-called "extracapsular bodies" (Gemmulæ, § 214). The characteristic skeletal structure of the different species appears at a later stage. Whether ripe central capsules can emerge from the social bond of a cœnobium, and, having become isolated, establish the formation of a new colony, is very doubtful. The various forms which the cœnobium assumes in the different species of Polycyttaria, are due partly to simple growth, partly to the development of large vacuoles in the calymma.

The form and size of the cœnobia appear in many fully developed Polycyttaria to exhibit specific differences, which require further investigation; in the young stage, on the contrary, they are simple spheres or ellipsoids, often cylindrical or sausage-shaped (Pl. 3, figs. 1, 4, 6, 11). In some species the cylindrical gelatinous bodies become moniliform, and separated by transverse constrictions into many segments, each of which encloses a large alveole (Pl. 3, fig. 10). The rare ring-shape (Pl. 4, fig. 1) which I figured in 1862 in the case of Collozoum (L. N. 16, p. 522, Taf. xxxv. fig. 1), I have recently observed in different species of Polycyttaria; it is capable of a very simple mechanical explanation, both ends of a sausage-shaped colony having been accidentally brought into contact by a wave and having united by agglutination. Quite recently Brandt has given a very complete account of the development, form, and growth of Polycyttarian colonies in his work on the colonial Radiolaria of the Bay of Naples (1885, L. N. 52, pp. 71-85).

Chapter VI.—PHYLOGENY OR GENEALOGICAL DEVELOPMENT.

(§§ 153-200.)

153. Sources of Phylogenetic Knowledge.—For the purpose of constructing a hypothetical genealogical tree of the Radiolaria, as of all other organisms, three sources of information are open to us, viz., palæontology, comparative ontogeny, and comparative anatomy. In the present case, however, these three sources are of very different value; the first two are at present only very inadequately known and have only been partially investigated, hence they can only be utilised to a very slight extent. The comparative anatomy of the Radiolaria, on the other hand, is so completely known, and affords such certain glimpses into the morphological relations of the related groups, that by its aid we are in a position at all events to lay down the general features of their phylogeny with some probability, and to lay the foundation of a natural system.

154. Natural and Artificial Systems.—Although in the classification of the Radiolaria, as in the case of all other organisms, the natural system must be regarded as the goal of systematic classification, our phylogenetic knowledge of the Radiolaria is too fragmentary and inadequate to admit of the systematic arrangement here adopted being regarded as a thoroughly consistent natural system, that is, as representing the true genealogical tree of the class. Owing, however, to the extraordinary variety of form of the Radiolaria, and the complicated relationships of the larger and smaller groups, a synoptical grouping of the different categories and the erection of a complete, even if to some extent artificial, system, becomes a logical necessity. Under these circumstances, and regard being had to both these conditions, the following systematic treatment of the Radiolaria will appear as a compromise between the natural and artificial systems, like all other zoological and botanical classificatory attempts. On the one hand, the attempt is made to arrange the larger and smaller groups as nearly as possible according to their phylogenetic relationships, whilst, on the other hand, the practice of circumscribing each by a definition as clear and logical as possible has been carried out. Since these two efforts naturally often come into contact, the insufficiency of many parts of the arrangement is obvious, hence its hypothetical and provisional character is emphatically stated.

155. Systematic Categories.—The categories or different orders of divisions have in the Radiolaria, as in all other organisms, no absolute significance, but only a relative value. In itself it is quite unimportant whether the whole group be regarded, as at first, as a family (Ehrenberg, 1847), or as an order (J. Müller, 1858), or as a class (Haeckel, {cii}1881). These different views are regulated, on the one hand, by the known extent of the group and by the amount of our acquaintance with it, and on the other, by comparison with related groups and by reference to their conventional disposition. When, therefore, the whole class, Radiolaria, is here divided into two subclasses, four legions, eight orders, eighty-five families, &c., these artificial categories are drawn up only in the conviction that by this means the easiest survey and most thorough insight into the system as a whole may be attained; this latter will indeed approach as far as possible the ideal of a natural system, but must on numerous practical grounds always remain more or less artificial. Since it is to be expected that with the progress of our systematic knowledge the rank of the various categories will rise, it is possible that in the future the arrangement of the group may be somewhat as follows:—Phylum, RADIOLARIA; Four Classes, Spumellaria, Nassellaria, Acantharia, Phæodaria; Eight Legions (Nos. I.-VIII. in the following Table); Twenty Orders (Nos. 1-20 in the Table), &c.

156. Formation of Species.—The totality of similar forms, which we unite in one species, and which in the earlier dogmatic systems was regarded as a category of absolute value, possesses only a relative value like all other systematic categories (§ 155). According to the individual views of the systematist and the general survey which he has attained of the smaller and larger systematic groups, the conception of a species adopted in his practical work will be wider or narrower. In the present systematic arrangement a medium extent has been adopted. It is shown that in the Radiolaria, as in all other extensive groups of organisms, the constancy of the species is very variable in the different groups. Many families of Radiolaria are very rich in "bad species," i.e., very variable forms, in which the process of the formation of species is seen in progress; such, for example, are—among the Spumellaria, the Sphærozoida, Stylosphærida, Phacodiscida and Pylonida; among the Acantharia, the Amphilonchida and Phractopeltida; among the Nassellaria, the Stephoidea and Botryodea; and among the Phæodaria, the Aulacanthida, Sagosphærida, Castanellida and Concharida. On the {civ}other hand, in some families numerous "good species" may be distinguished, since the intermediate connecting forms are no longer present and the forms have become relatively constant. As instances of such families may be mentioned, among the Spumellaria, the Astrosphærida, Cyphinida, Porodiscida and Tholonida; among the Acantharia the Quadrilonchida and Dorataspida; among the Nassellaria, the Spyroidea and Cyrtoidea; among the Phæodaria, the Challengerida, Medusettida, Circoporida and Cœlographida. The more carefully the different groups are studied, the more numerous the individuals of each species under comparison, the greater becomes the number of "bad" species among the Radiolaria, and the smaller the number of good ones. Originally, no doubt, all "species bonæ" were "malæ." There may be observed in the manifold skeletal forms of the Radiolaria, on the one hand, the utmost accuracy of configuration, and on the other, the greatest variability, and hence a careful comparative study of them leads to a firm conviction of the gradual "Transformation of Species," and of the truth of the "Theory of Descent."

157. Palæontological Development.—The palæontology of the Radiolaria already offers very considerable material for study; but in consequence of its incompleteness this is of little value for the study of the phylogeny of the class. By far the larger portion of the fossil Radiolaria belong to the Tertiary period; only quite recently have numerous well-preserved fossil Radiolaria been described from the Mesozoic period, and especially from the Jura. Of Palæozoic Radiolaria (from the coal measures) only slight traces are known. Moreover, the fossil Radiolaria hitherto known have been found only in very circumscribed and widely separated localities. The majority of all the species belong to the small island of Barbados. Although our palæontological acquaintance with the Radiolaria must necessarily be incomplete for this reason, it is still more so since at least thirty out of the eighty-five families (that is more than a third) could not possibly leave any fossil remains, either because they possess no skeleton, or because of its chemical composition.

Of the four legions of the Radiolaria, the Acantharia (on account of the solubility of their astroid acanthin skeletons) have entirely vanished and have never been found fossil. Of the Phæodaria, whose silicate skeleton is not as a rule capable of fossilisation, only one section (Dictyochida) of a single family (Cannorrhaphida) has been observed fossil. Hence the fossil remains of the Radiolaria belong almost exclusively to the two legions, Spumellaria and Nassellaria, which were formerly united under the term "Polycystina." Among these, however, the skeletonless Thalassicollida, Collozoida, and Nassellida could leave no traces. Hence there only remain fifty-five families of which we might expect to find fossil siliceous skeletons. Even of these, however, scarcely the half are certainly known in the fossil condition, whilst of the remainder nothing certain is known; for example, of the large order Larcoidea (among the Spumellaria) and of the Stephoidea (among the Nassellaria) with a few isolated exceptions, no fossils are known. The great majority of fossil Radiolaria belong to the two Nassellarian orders Cyrtoidea and Spyroidea (two relatively very highly developed groups); next to these follow the orders {cv}Discoidea and Sphæroidea among the Spumellaria. From these palæontological facts it is obvious that our present very incomplete acquaintance with the fossil Radiolaria is quite insufficient to warrant us in drawing any conclusions from it regarding the phylogenetic development or palæontological succession of the individual groups.

158. Origin of the Four Legions.—The agreement of all Radiolaria in those constant and essential characters of the unicellular body, which distinguish them from all other Protista (especially the differentiation of the malacoma into a central capsule and extracapsulum), justifies the conclusion that all members of this class have been developed from a common undifferentiated stem-form. Only the simplest form of the Spumellaria, a skeletonless spherical cell with concentric spherical nucleus and calymma, can be regarded as such. The simplest form of the Thalassicollida which is now extant (Actissa, Procyttarium, p. 12), corresponds so exactly to the morphological idea of that hypothetical stem-form that it may unhesitatingly be regarded in a natural system as the common point of origin of the whole class. On the other hand, Actissa is so closely related to the simple Heliozoa (Actinophrys, Actinosphærium, Heterophrys, Sphærastrum, &c.) that its origin from this group of Rhizopoda is exceedingly probable. The three legions Acantharia, Nassellaria, and Phæodaria are to be regarded as three main diverging branches of the genealogical tree, which have been developed in different directions and are only connected by their simplest stem-forms (Actinelius, Nassella, Phæodina) with the stem-form of the Spumellaria, the primordial Actissa.

159. Phylogeny of the Spumellaria.—The legion Spumellaria or Peripylea is to be regarded as the common stem-group of the Radiolaria, and its simplest form, Actissa, as the primitive genus or radical form of the whole class; for it possesses in the simplest and most undifferentiated form all those characters by which the Radiolaria are distinguished from other Protista; all the other genera of the class may be derived from it by successive modifications. Considered as a legion the whole group Spumellaria is undoubtedly monophyletic, for all its members possess those essential characters by which it is distinctively marked off from the other three legions, more especially a simple capsule-membrane, which is everywhere evenly perforated by innumerable small pores; the nucleus lies originally in the centre of the spherical central capsule. Furthermore, all Spumellaria lack those positive characters which distinguish the three remaining legions—the centrogenous acanthin skeleton of the Acantharia, the basal porochora and the monaxon podoconus of the Nassellaria, the astropyle and phæodium of the Phæodaria.

160. Origin of the Spumellaria.—The genus Actissa (p. 12, Pl. 1, fig. 1) presents the Radiolarian type in its simplest and most primitive form—a spherical central capsule, which encloses in its middle a spherical nucleus, and which is surrounded by a spherical calymma. The whole unicellular body consists, therefore, of three concentric spheres, {cvi}and possesses neither skeleton nor alveoles, nor other differentiated parts. The innumerable fine pseudopodia, which issue from the central capsule through the evenly distributed pores in its membrane, radiate in all directions through the calymma and pass out over its surface. Actissa can, therefore, be directly derived phylogenetically from the simplest skeletonless Heliozoa (Actinophrys, Heterophrys, Actinosphærium, Sphærastrum). The only essential difference between the two consists in the development of the central capsule, which in Actissa separates as a distinct membrane the endoplasm from the exoplasm. This differentiation which we regard is the most important distinguishing character of the Radiolaria, has been transmitted by inheritance, along with the formation of flagellate spores in the central capsule, from Actissa, the primitive parent to all the other Radiolaria.

162. Collodaria and Sphærellaria.—Whilst in all Spumellaria the malacoma agrees in possessing the characteristic features of the legion, and thus justifies its derivation monophyletically from the common stem-form Actissa, the different forms of skeleton, on the other hand, cannot all be referred to the same fundamental form. More especially the spherical lattice-shell, from which all the numerous skeletal forms of the Sphærellaria may be derived, cannot have arisen from the incomplete Beloid skeleton which characterises the Beloidea among the Collodaria. It is probable rather that the formation of the skeleton has taken place independently in those two groups of Spumellaria. From the skeletonless Colloidea, as the common stem-group of the Spumellaria, two different main groups have diverged, on the one hand the Beloidea, whose skeleton consists of separate spicules scattered in the extracapsulum, and on the other hand, the Sphærellaria, which have formed a simple lattice-sphere around the central capsule; from this the manifold forms of the remaining Spumellaria may be derived.

163. Descent of the Sphærellaria.—The extensive order Sphærellaria, which includes all Spumellaria with a complete lattice-shell, develops an extraordinary variety of skeletal structures; these may, nevertheless, all be derived without violence from a common stem-form, or simple spherical lattice-shell, Cenosphæra. The main stem of the order, the extensive suborder Sphæroidea (Pls. 5-30), is derived immediately from Cenosphæra (p. 61, Pl. 12); three diverging branches of it being represented by the other three suborders, the Prunoidea (Pls. 16, 17, 39, 40) being developed by elongation, and the Discoidea (Pls. 31-48) by shortening of the vertical main axis, whilst the Larcoidea (Pls. 9, 10, 49, 50) have originated by the modification of the spherical lattice-shell into a lentelliptical or triaxial ellipsoidal one. Although the monophyletic derivation of all Sphærellaria from Cenosphæra is exceedingly probable, the possibility of a polyphyletic origin for the group is by no means excluded. For even in the skeletonless primitive genus of all the Spumellaria, Actissa (as well as in the social Collozoum), there are found, in addition to the usual spherical types, other species (or subgenera, p. 12) whose central capsule is not spherical but a modification of the sphere; in Actiprunum ellipsoidal; in Actidiscus lenticular; in Actilarcus lentelliptical; if such modified forms of Actissa were to develop their lattice-shells independently, then their form would correspond to that of the central capsule; and such simple ellipsoidal, discoidal, and lentelliptical lattice-shells might have been the primitive forms of the Prunoidea, Discoidea and Larcoidea.

164. Genealogical Tree of the Sphæroidea.—Cenosphæra, the simplest form of the spherical lattice-shell, may be unhesitatingly regarded as the common stem-form of all the Sphæroidea (pp. 50-284, Pls. 5-30). Cenosphæra (p. 61, Pl. 12) arose directly from Actissa simply by the silicification of the spherical exoplasmatic network of the sarcodictyum around the central capsule, on the surface of the concentric calymma. From this simple siliceous extracapsular lattice-sphere all other forms of Sphæroidea have arisen, in the main by the manifold combination of two simple processes, first by the formation of radial spines on the surface of the lattice-sphere, and second, the addition of concentric spherical lattice-shells. Both processes may be utilised as the foundation for a systematic treatment of the Sphæroidea (compare pp. 52-58).

If in the Sphæroidea the characteristic number and disposition of the radial spines be regarded as the most important heritable peculiarity of the different families, then we have the following natural arrangement:—(1) Liosphærida, without radial spines; (2) Cubosphærida, with six radial spines (opposite in pairs in three axes perpendicular to each other); (3) Staurosphærida, with four radial spines (in two axes crossed at right angles); (4) Stylosphærida, with two opposite radial spines (in the vertical main axis); and (5) Astrosphærida, with numerous regularly or irregularly distributed radial spines (eight to twenty or more). If, on the contrary, more stress be laid upon the number of the concentric lattice-shells, then we have the following artificial grouping:—(1) Monosphærida, with one simple lattice-sphere; (2) Dyosphærida, with two concentric lattice-spheres; (3) Triosphærida, with three; (4) Tetrasphærida, with four; (5) Polysphærida, with numerous (five to twenty or more) concentric lattice-shells; (6) Spongosphærida, with a spongy spherical shell. In general the former arrangement appears more natural than the latter, since the number of primary radial spines, which grow out from the primary lattice-sphere, determines their ground-form from the outset, whatever may be the number of secondarily added shells. Strictly speaking, according to the view adopted, these Liosphærida which have several shells, on the outer surface of which there are no radial spines, ought to be classified according to the number and arrangement of their internal radial connecting beams and distributed among the other families. The practical application of this correct principle meets, however, with great difficulties. Also in many cases the phylogenetic relations of the different Sphæroidea are more complicated than would appear from both these classificatory principles. In general their phylogeny will quite correspond with their ontogeny, since from the innermost first formed {cix}lattice-shell (primary medullary shell) a number of radial spines arises, and upon these the secondary shells are formed from within outwards.

165. Genealogical Tree of the Prunoidea.—The suborder Prunoidea is very closely related to the Sphæroidea, and is distinguished from it by the elongation of one axis; from the simple lattice-sphere (Cenosphæra) is developed a latticed ellipsoid (Cenellipsis, Pl. 39, fig. 1). The development of this vertical isopolar main axis is foreshadowed even among the Sphæroidea, in that family in which two opposite radial spines grow out of the primary lattice-sphere at the two poles of the vertical main axis (Stylosphærida, Pls. 13, 14). These latter pass over without any sharp boundary into those forms of Prunoidea whose ellipsoidal lattice-shell bears two opposite main-spines (Stylatractida, Pls. 15, 16). Other very intimate relationships between the Sphæroidea and Prunoidea are indicated in certain of the latter by the fact that of the two concentric lattice-shells the inner (medullary) shell is spherical, the outer (cortical) shell ellipsoidal (Pl. 39, figs. 3, 7, 8, 14, 19); often three concentric lattice-shells are present, of which the two inner are spherical intracapsular medullary shells, whilst the outer is an extracapsular cortical shell, ellipsoidal or cylindrical in form (Pl. 39, figs. 4, 12, 17, 18). Owing to the manifold nature of these phylogenetical relations and the variety of their combinations, the derivation of the individual Prunoidea from the Sphæroidea is rendered very difficult; in addition to which it is possible that the simplest Prunoidea (Cenellipsis, Ellipsidium) have been directly developed from the skeletonless Actiprunum (a form of Actissa with ellipsoidal central capsule, p. 14) by the excretion of a simple ellipsoidal lattice-shell on the surface of their calymma.

The phylogeny of the Prunoidea is especially complicated by the formation of peculiar transverse constrictions, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. They are wanting only in the Monoprunida (Ellipsida, Druppulida, and Spongurida); the Dyoprunida (Artiscida and Cyphinida, Pl. 39, figs. 9-19) possess only one such constriction (in the equatorial plane); the Polyprunida, on the other hand, have three, five, or more parallel constrictions (Panartida and Zygartida, Pl. 40). The chambers, which are separated off by these constrictions, may be regarded as polar sections of incomplete cortical shells.

166. Genealogical Tree of the Discoidea.—The suborder Discoidea is closely related to the Sphæroidea, but separated from it by shortening of one axis; from a simple lattice-sphere (Cenosphæra) a latticed lens or flattened spheroid is developed, whose circular equatorial plane is larger than any other section (Cenodiscus, Pl. 48, fig. 1). The formation of this horizontal equatorial plane is perhaps indicated in that family of Sphæroidea in which four crossed radial spines, lying in one plane, are developed (Staurosphærida, Pls. 15, 31, 42). The morphological and phylogenetical relations of the Discoidea to the Sphæroidea are precisely the converse of those of the Prunoidea; in the latter the vertical axis appears longer, in the former shorter than any {cx}other axis of the body. The Discoidea are probably polyphyletic, having originated from several different groups of Sphæroidea; at least two essentially different main groups may be distinguished among them; of these the one is characterised by the formation of a large extracapsular lenticular cortical shell (Phacodiscaria), whilst in the other this typical "Phacoid shell" or lattice-lens is wanting (Cyclodiscaria, compare pp. 403-409).

The Phacodiscida (Pls. 31-35) perhaps constitute the primitive group of the Phacodiscaria, their lenticular or Phacoid cortical shell being connected by radial bars with one or two concentric spherical medullary shells; they may have originated directly from the Dyosphærida or Triosphærida by flattening of the spheroidal cortical shell. From the Phacodiscida the Cenodiscida (if indeed they be not the primitive stem-form) have been developed by retrogression and loss of those medullary shells. The Coccodiscida (Pls. 36-38), on the other hand, have been developed from the Phacodiscida by the addition of concentric rings of chambers, which may be regarded as incomplete cortical shells, only the equatorial portion of which is developed. Perhaps the Porodiscida, the primitive group of the Cyclodiscaria, have arisen in a similar way; they lack, however, the typical Phacoid shell, the concentric rings of chambers being directly applied to a small spherical medullary shell in the equatorial plane (Pls. 41-46). If those rings from the commencement be interrupted by three interradial gaps (gates) the family Pylodiscida arises (Pl. 38, figs. 6-20). If, on the contrary, the concentric radially divided chambers of the Porodiscida become quite irregular and spongy, they pass over into the Spongodiscida (Pls. 46, 47). It is not, however, impossible that part of the Discoidea (especially the Cenodiscida) have originated directly from skeletonless Collodaria with a lenticular central capsule, such as are found in a subgenus of Actissa (Actidiscus, p. 15).

167. Genealogical Tree of the Larcoidea.—The suborder Larcoidea presents in the structure, composition, and development of its variously formed lattice-shells much more complicated relations than the other Sphærellaria; it is essentially distinguished from them by the characteristic ground-form of its lattice-shells, which is a "lentellipsis" or a triaxial ellipsoid (also the ground-form of the rhombic crystallographic system, the rhombic octahedron). Hence all parts of the body are regularly disposed with respect to three different dimensive axes; all three axes, perpendicular one to another, are isopolar but of different lengths; the longest is the vertical main axis, the mean the horizontal frontal axis, the shortest the horizontal sagittal axis. In the great majority of the Larcoidea the lentelliptical ground-form is indicated in the central capsule, even when it is not at once obvious in the skeleton. Since such lentelliptical central capsules are developed even in Actissa (Actilarcus, p. 16), it is possible that the simplest Larcoidea may have arisen directly from these by deposition of a simple lentelliptical lattice-shell in the sarcodictyum, on the surface of the calymma (Cenolarcus, Pl. 50, fig. 7). It is more probable, however, that these simplest forms (Cenolarcus, Larcarium) have been developed from the simplest Sphæroidea (Cenosphæra), by the spherical body growing unequally in the three dimensions of space. It appears especially likely {cxi}from a study of the concentrically disposed lattice-shells of some Larcoidea (Coccolarcus, Larcidium, Pl. 50, fig. 8), in which the inner medullary shell is spherical, the outer cortical shell more or less elliptical. In the great majority of Larcoidea the latter arises in quite a peculiar manner, three broad lattice-zones, which are developed in three planes at right angles to each other, growing out from a small spherical or lentelliptical medullary shell, Trizonium, Larnacilla (compare pp. 600, 615, 628, &c.).

The trizonal Larnacilla-shell commences by the formation of a transverse girdle, by the union of two lateral latticed processes, which spring right and left in the equatorial plane from the poles of the frontal axis of a lentelliptical medullary shell (Monozonium, p. 633, Pl. 9, fig. 1). This is followed by a second lateral girdle, which lies in the frontal plane and proceeds from its lateral poles (Dizonium, p. 634, Pl. 9, figs. 2, 3). Finally the sagittal girdle is formed, lying in the sagittal plane and arising from the lateral girdle on the two poles of the main axis (Trizonium, p. 637, Pl. 9, fig. 4). Whilst the gaps between the three zones of this trizonal shell remain open in the Pylonida, in Larnacilla, the important primitive form of the Larnacida, they are closed by lattice-work (Pl. 50, figs. 3-8). From this trizonal Larnacilla-shell the great majority of Larcoid shells may be derived. Such a system of zones may be repeated (Diplozonaria) or even developed a third time (Triplozonaria, p. 632). In most Larcoidea the zones are secondarily connected by lattice-work. In the Tholonida (Pl. 10) each of the two opposite latticed wings of a zone becomes a closed dome. In the Zonarida (Pl. 50, figs. 9-12) these domes are partially or wholly bisected by constrictions or latticed septa which are developed in the three dimensive planes. The Lithelida (Pl. 49, figs. 1-7) are characterised by the fact that one of each pair of opposite latticed processes (or half zones) grows more strongly than the other, and that the larger completely embraces the smaller so as to form a complicated spiral. Whilst in this case the spiral lies in a plane, in the Streblonida (Pl. 49, figs. 8, 9) it becomes turbinoid like a gastropod shell and forms an ascending spiral. Finally, two small families of Larcoidea are characterised by quite irregular growth (a very rare occurrence among the Radiolaria); these are the simple-chambered Phorticida (Pl. 49, figs. 10, 11) and the many chambered Soreumida (Pl. 49, figs. 12, 13). The phylogenetic relationship of these families of Larcoidea is probably very complicated and demands closer investigation (compare pp. 599-604).

168. Descent of the Polycyttaria.—The polyzootic or colonial Radiolaria, which we unite in the group Polycyttaria (sometimes known as "Sphærozoea"), belong without doubt to the legion Spumellaria, for they possess all the peculiarities by which these Peripylea are distinguished from the other legions of the Radiolaria. Only the morphological position of the Polycyttaria in that legion, and their phylogenetic relation to the monozootic or solitary Spumellaria, can be variously interpreted. The three families which we distinguish among the Polycyttaria are so closely related to three different families of the Monocyttaria, that they may be directly derived from them by the formation of colonies. According to this triphyletic hypothesis the social skeletonless Collozoida (Pl. 3) would be descended from the solitary Thalassicollida (Pl. 1), the polyzootic Sphærozoida with a Beloid skeleton (Pl. 4) from the monozootic {cxii}Thalassosphærida (Pl. 2), and the colonial Collosphærida with a Sphæroid skeleton (Pls. 5-8) from the solitary Ethmosphærida (Pl. 12, &c.). Many species of monozootic and polyzootic forms in all three groups are so alike that they can only be distinguished by the fact that the one series are colonial, the others solitary. On the other hand, there are some reasons which would justify a monophyletic hypothesis for the Polycyttaria, e.g., the precocious nuclear division; in this case it would be most natural to hold that the Sphærozoida and Collosphærida have arisen as two diverging branches from the Collozoida, whilst the latter are nothing else than colonial Thalassicollida.

169. Phylogeny of the Acantharia.—The legion Acantharia or Actipylea is distinguished by its peculiar acanthin skeleton, which develops centrogenously, as well as by the disposition in groups of the pores in its central capsule, and its excentric usually precocious nucleus; it is thus so different from all other Radiolaria as undoubtedly to furnish, phylogenetically considered, an independent stem (§ 7). This stem is only connected at the root by Actinelius with the primitive form of the Spumellaria, Actissa. The stem is monophyletic, since all the forms belonging to it may be derived without violence from Actinelius as a common primitive form.

170. Origin of the Acantharia.—The genus Actinelius (p. 730, Pl. 129, fig. 1), which may naturally be regarded as the common primitive form of all Acantharia, possesses a spherical central capsule, which in consequence of the early division of the nucleus (§ 63), encloses numerous small nuclei; from its centre arise many simple radial spines of equal size, which penetrate the central capsule. A large number of radial pseudopodia issue between the spines from the sarcomatrix which surrounds the capsule. Actinelius may have been directly derived from Actissa, the common stem-form of all Radiolaria, by the division of the pseudopodia into two groups, myxopodia, which remained soft, and axopodia, which became firm (§ 95A). As the latter became changed into strong acanthin rods, and touched each other in the centre, they forced the nucleus from its originally central position and brought about its early division. Actinelius is also of all Radiolaria the form which, next to Actissa, most nearly approaches the Heliozoa. If the stiff axial threads of Actinosphærium be conceived of as partially converted into acanthin spines, and its nucleated medullary substance as separated from the alveolar cortical layer by a membrane (central capsule), then Actinelius would be produced.

172. Adelacantha and Icosacantha.—The numerous forms of Acantharia, here disposed in twelve families and sixty-five genera, may be divided phylogenetically into two main groups of very different extent—Adelacantha and Icosacantha. The more primitive group, Adelacantha, have an indefinite and variable number of radial spines, which are always quite simple in form and usually irregularly distributed; this main division includes only the one order Actinelida, with six genera, among which is Actinelius, the common stem-form of all the Acantharia. The more recent group, Icosacantha, includes all the other Acantharia (fifty-nine genera), and is very markedly distinguished from the Adelacantha by the fact that the radial spines are always twenty in number, and arranged according to Müller's law (compare pp. 717-725, and § 110). Since this regular disposition (in five alternating zones each of four spines) has been retained by inheritance in the whole of the Icosacantha, it is probable that this large group has been developed monophyletically from a twig of the Adelacantha; Actinastrum (p. 732) and Chiastolus (p. 738) still present connecting links between the former and the latter, between Actinelius and Acanthometron.

173. Acanthonida and Acanthophracta.—The extensive main division Icosacantha (§ 110), which embraces all Acantharia with twenty radial spines, disposed according to Müller's law, may be subdivided into two large groups or orders:—the Acanthonida (p. 740, Pls. 130-132) and the Acanthophracta (p. 791, Pls. 133-140). The latter possess a complete extracapsular lattice-shell, which the former have not. The more recent Acanthophracta may be derived phylogenetically from the more primitive Acanthonida simply by the development of this lattice-shell, with which process are usually (perhaps always) connected certain alterations in the malacoma, e.g., degeneration of the myophriscs (§ 96). The most primitive form of all Icosacantha is the genus Acanthometron (p. 324), in which all the twenty acanthin spines are of the simplest constitution and of equal dimensions.

174. Differentiation of the Acanthonida.—The order Acanthonida, which embraces all Icosacantha which have no complete lattice-shell, divides early into three main branches, the three families Astrolonchida, Quadrilonchida, and Amphilonchida (p. 727, Pls. 130-132). The first of these constitutes the common stem-group from which the other two as well as the whole group Acanthophracta have been developed; the common stem-form of all is Acanthometron (§ 173). All the Astrolonchida (p. 740, Pl. 130) have twenty radial spines of equal size and similar form. On the other hand, in the Quadrilonchida (p. 766, Pl. 131) the four equatorial spines differ from the others in size and sometimes also in form. In the Amphilonchida (p. 781, Pl. 132) two opposite equatorial spines (lying in the hydrotomical axis) are much larger than the other eighteen and of a different shape. Of the three families of the Acanthonida the most important is the primitive group Astrolonchida, for from this the various stem-forms of the Acanthophracta arise. They are subdivided according to the formation of the spines into three subfamilies: the Zygacanthida, with simple spines without apophyses (or transverse processes); the Phractacanthida, with two opposite apophyses on each radial {cxv}spine, and the Stauracanthida, with four crossed apophyses on each radial spine. The three genera of the Zygacanthida represent the stem-forms of the three families, since the radial spines in Acanthometron (the most primitive form of Acanthonida) are cylindrical, in Zygacantha two-edged, and in Acanthonia four-edged (p. 741).

175. Capsophracta and Cladophracta.—The extensive order Acanthophracta, which embraces all Acantharia with a complete lattice-shell, is polyphyletic, its main subdivisions have been developed independently from different branches of the Acanthonida. The whole order may be divided directly into two main groups, the Capsophracta and Cladophracta (p. 793), which differ in the structure and the origin of their lattice-shell. The group (or suborder) Capsophracta includes only the single family Sphærocapsida (p. 795, Pl. 133, figs. 7-11; Pl. 135, figs. 6-10); the lattice-shell arises independently of the twenty radial spines, being made up like a pavement of innumerable small acanthin plates, united by a kind of cement; each plate being perforated by a fine pore. In addition twenty larger main pores (or groups of four pores each) are present, corresponding to the twenty radial spines; these are always equal, quadrangular prismatic, without transverse processes as in Acanthonia. In the Cladophracta, which include the five remaining families of the Acanthophracta, the structure and origin of the lattice-shell are quite different; the lattice-shell is here made up of the branches of the transverse processes, which radiate tangentially from the twenty radial spines and are only united secondarily.

176. Ascent of the Dorataspida.—The group Cladophracta, or those Acantharia whose lattice-shell arises by the union of transverse processes of the twenty radial spines, includes five different families, whose stem-group is the family Dorataspida, with a simple spherical lattice-shell. This family itself is, however, diphyletic in origin, being composed of two essentially and originally different subfamilies—Diporaspida and Tessaraspida (p. 803). The Diporaspida (p. 808, Pls. 137, 138) have been developed from the Phractacanthida, and as each radial spine of the latter bears two opposite apophyses, so the lattice-shell of the former has forty primary aspinal pores (two on the base of each spine). On the other hand, the Tessaraspida (p. 830, Pls. 135, 136) have been developed from the Stauracanthida, and as each radial spine of the latter bears four crossed apophyses, so the lattice-shell of the former has eighty primary aspinal pores (four at the base of each spine).

177. Descent of the Diporaspida.—Whilst the Tessaraspida (§ 176) have given rise to no new groups which could take rank as independent families, no less than four separate families of Acantharia have arisen from the Diporaspida. The Phractopeltida (Pl. 133, figs. 1-6) are distinguished from all other Acantharia by the possession of two concentric spherical lattice-shells, and have probably been developed from the {cxvi}Diporaspida in the same way as the Dyosphærida from the Monosphærida among the Sphæroidea; in that case the smaller inner lattice-sphere (medullary shell) would be the primary, and the larger outer sphere (cortical shell) the secondary; this latter shows forty primary aspinal pores like those of the Diporaspida. The possibility is not excluded, however, that the small inner lattice-sphere of the Phractopeltida is a secondary product. The three remaining families, which must be regarded as descendants of the Diporaspida, form together a single phylogenetic series, and are separated from the primitive group mainly by the fact that the original spherical form of the lattice-shell has been modified into one distinguished by an elongated equatorial axis (the hydrotomical axis); hence the Prunophracta (pp. 794-859). The ellipsoidal Belonaspida have arisen directly by hypertrophy of the two opposite equatorial spines of this hydrotomical axis (p. 859, Pl. 136, figs. 6-9; Pl. 139, figs. 8, 9; perhaps they have also arisen directly from the Amphilonchida). In the lentelliptical Hexalaspida (Pl. 139) all six spines which lie in the hydrotomical meridian plane (two equatorial and four polar) are very strongly developed, the remaining fourteen being rudimentary. Finally, in the Diploconida the two conical sheaths of the two opposite hydrotomical equatorial spines are so predominant that they take the chief part in the formation of the hour-glass-shaped shell.

178. Phylogeny of the Nassellaria.—The legion Nassellaria or Monopylea is so clearly characterised by the peculiar porochora, which closes the osculum at the oral pole of the monaxon central capsule, and by the podoconus connected with it, that there can be no doubt that phylogenetically it represents an independent stem (§ 8). This stem is only connected at its base by means of Cystidium and Nassella with Actissa and Thalassicolla, the stem-forms of the Spumellaria. This stem is monophyletic, inasmuch as all its members may be derived without violence from the skeletonless Nassellida (Nassella, Cystidium, p. 896, Pl. 91, fig. 1).

179. Origin of the Nassellaria.—The Nassellida (p. 896), which may naturally be considered as the common stem-group of the Nassellaria, are most nearly related among other Radiolaria to the Thalassicollida, and in both these skeletonless families the simplest forms, Cystidium and Actissa correspond; on the other hand, those which have arisen from them by the formation of alveoles in the calymma (Nassella and Thalassicolla) also correspond. The origin of the simplest Nassellida from these primitive Thalassicollida may be explained by supposing that the numerous (formerly evenly distributed) pores of the capsule membrane became obliterated in the upper (apical) half of the central capsule, whilst in the lower (basal) half they became correspondingly more strongly developed; hence the porochora was formed at the oral pole of the vertical main axis, and a differentiation of the endoplasm proceeding from this gave rise to the characteristic podoconus. Both these organs still at present exhibit very various degrees of progressive development.

181. Plectellaria and Cyrtellaria.—The extensive legion Nassellaria far surpasses the other three legions in the endless variety of its skeletal structures, and owing to the complicated relationships of its numerous families presents no lack of difficult phylogenetic problems. All Nassellaria may be divided first into two main groups or sublegions, Plectellaria and Cyrtellaria; the latter having a complete lattice-shell, the former not. Probably the Cyrtellaria have been polyphyletically developed from several different groups of Plectellaria. These groups are, however, connected in such manifold ways that a monophyletic origin of all the Nassellarian skeletons from one original element is possible. Such a primitive element may have been furnished by any one of three different skeletal parts, the sagittal ring, the basal tripod, and the latticed cephalis (compare pp. 891-895, Bütschli, L. N. 40, 41).

182. Phylogenetic Skeletal Elements of the Nassellaria.—The multiform skeleton of the Nassellaria may be referred in different ways to one of the three above-mentioned structural elements. Each of these (p. 891) may by itself form the skeleton; the sagittal ring in the simplest Stephoidea (Archicircus, Lithocircus), the basal tripod in the simplest Plectoidea (Triplagia, Plagiacantha), the latticed cephalis in the simplest Cyrtoidea (Cyrtocalpis, Archicapsa). In the great majority of the Nassellaria, however, two of these elements, or even all three, are found combined. In most Cyrtellaria, more especially, both the sagittal ring and the basal tripod may be recognised in the lattice-shell, though often only in slight rudiments or scarcely perceptible traces. In the Plectellaria also (which possess no latticed cephalis) there are individual genera with complete development both of the sagittal ring and basal tripod; this important combination is especially well represented in the Cortinida (Cortina, Cortiniscus, Stephanium, Stephaniscus, Tripocoronis, &c.). The greatest difficulty as regards the phylogeny of the Nassellaria lies in the fact that the most various combinations of the three elements are presented by closely related or very similar forms. If, in spite of this, a monophyletic hypothesis as to the origin of the Nassellaria seems essential all sides of the three possible hypotheses must receive full consideration and critical comparison (§§ 183-191).

183. Ascent of the Nassellaria from the Plectoidea.—The monophyletic hypothesis (No. 2, p. 893) which regards the basal tripod as the common origin of the skeleton of all Nassellaria, starts from the simplest forms of the Plectoidea (Triplagia, Plagoniscus, Triplecta, Plectaniscus, &c., Pl. 91). All Plectoidea may be immediately derived as diverging twigs of these, as well as all triradial and multiradial forms of Cyrtoidea and Spyroidea; for in all these cases the distinctive triradial (or the derived multiradial) form of skeleton appears directly derivable from the simple basal tripod of the former. The same is perhaps also true of many Botryodea. {cxix}Furthermore, certain important forms of Stephoidea (Cortina, Cortiniscus, Stephanium, Stephaniscus, &c.), which have a characteristic combination of the sagittal ring and basal tripod, may be immediately derived from such forms of Plectoidea as Plagoniscus cortinaris, Plagiocarpa procortina, Plectaniscus cortiniscus, &c. On the contrary, those Stephoidea and Cyrtoidea in which the basal tripod is wanting can only be derived from the Plectoidea by the assumption that this structure has disappeared in consequence of phylogenetic degeneration. The monophyletic derivation of the Nassellaria from the Plectoidea has more internal probability than that from the Stephoidea, since it is easier to suppose that the Cortinida (Cortina, Stephanium, &c.) have been derived from the Plectoidea (Plagoniscus, Plagiocarpa) than the converse. This view is the basis of the hypothetical tree shown in § 180.

184. Ascent of the Nassellaria from the Stephoidea.—The monophyletic hypothesis (No. 1, p. 893) which regards the primary sagittal ring as the common starting point of the skeleton in all Nassellaria, starts from the simplest forms of Stephoidea (Archicircus, Lithocircus, &c., Pl. 81). All Stephoidea and Spyroidea may be immediately derived from these, as also the majority of the Cyrtoidea and probably of the Botryodea. Those numerous forms of the last two groups, however, which possess no trace of a sagittal ring, can only be derived from the former by the supposition that the latter has completely disappeared in in consequence of gradual phylogenetic degeneration. The same holds true also of the Plectoidea, although certain forms (e.g., Plagiocarpa procortina, Pl. 91, fig. 5; Plectaniscus cortiniscus, Pl. 91, fig. 9) appear to indicate the commencing formation of the sagittal ring by the concrescence of two branches, which approach each other from the upper part of the apical rod and the ventral part of the basal rod. In any case, it is a fact of great phylogenetic significance, that the primary sagittal ring in the cephalis of the Cyrtoidea shows all conceivable stages of degeneration (compare Bütschli, L. N. 40, 41, as well as the general account of and critical comparison of the Nassellaria, pp. 889-895, &c.).

185. Ascent of the Nassellaria from the Cyrtoidea.—The monophyletic hypothesis (No. 3, p. 894) which regards the latticed cephalis as the common point of origin of all the skeletons of the Nassellaria, starts from the simplest forms of the Cyrtoidea, that is, from the Cyrtocalpida or eradial Monocyrtida (Archicorida, Archicapsida, Pls. 51, 52, 98). All Cyrtoidea and Botryodea may be regarded as divergent forms of these monothalamous Cyrtoidea; the polythalamous simply by the addition of fresh joints at the basal pole, the triradiate and multiradiate by the development of three or more apophyses. The origin of the sagittal ring (which presents every stage of development and degeneration in the Cyrtoidea) may be regarded as a mechanical thickening of the latticed plate in the sagittal circumference of the cephalis. By stronger {cxx}development of this ring and coincident sagittal constriction of the cephalis the order Spyroidea may be derived from the Cyrtoidea. On the other hand, the Plectellaria, which possess no cephalis, and indeed no complete lattice-shell whatever, may be derived from the Monocyrtida by the assumption of a degeneration of this structure; the sagittal ring having been preserved in the Stephoidea, and the tripod of the Tripocalpida in the Plectoidea. Although such a monophyletic derivation of the Nassellaria from the Cyrtocalpida is possible, and though here, too, the Cortinida play an important part as connecting links, this hypothesis has less internal probability than that of the derivation from the Stephoidea (§ 184) or Plectoidea (§ 183).

186. Genealogical Tree of the Plectoidea.—The order Plectoidea includes those Nassellaria whose rudimentary skeleton does not contain the characteristic sagittal ring of the Stephoidea, but consists of several (at least three) radial spines, which proceed from a point in the centre of the porochora. The branches of these radial spines remain free in the Plagonida, whilst in the Plectanida they unite with each other to form a loose meshwork (not, however, a complete lattice-shell). The number and arrangement of the radial spines, which serve for generic distinctions, are the same in both families, so that each genus of the Plectanida has arisen from a corresponding genus of the Plagonida. The simplest Plagonida, which possess a basal tripod (Triplagia or Plagiacantha with three rays, Tetraplagia with four rays) are probably to be regarded as forming the common origin of the whole order. These agree with certain three- and four-rayed skeletal pieces of the Beloidea (Thalassosphærida and Sphærozoida); and also the four and six-rayed twinned pieces of the latter (spicula bigemina and trigemina) repeat in the same fashion the skeleton of the former (Plagonidium, Plagonium). This similarity, however, is a mere analogy and possesses no phylogenetic significance. On the other hand, certain Plagonida (Plagoniscus, Plagiocarpa), and the corresponding genera of Plectanida (Plectaniscus, Periplecta) seem to have important phylogenetic relations to certain Stephoidea (Cortina, Cortiniscus, &c.); the sagittal ring of the latter having perhaps arisen by the vertical apical spine of the former having been connected with their horizontal basal rod by two ventral apophyses growing out opposite to each other (compare pp. 902, 914, Plagiocarpa procortina, Pl. 91, fig. 5). In this case the Plectanida would belong to the simplest stem-forms of the Nassellaria.

187. Genealogical Tree of the Stephoidea.—The order Stephoidea includes all those Nassellaria whose skeleton does not form a complete lattice-shell, but consists of one or more rings, and often of a loose meshwork which arises by the union of branches of the rings. A vertical sagittal ring is constantly present, embracing the central capsule in the median sagittal plane, and forming at its basal pole various processes, the starting point for other skeletal forms. The most important of these is the tripodal Cortina {cxxi}(p. 950, § 182). The Stephanida are the most archaic family among the Stephoidea (p. 937, Pl. 81), perhaps indeed among all the Nassellaria (§ 184); in them the sagittal ring and its processes alone constitute the skeleton; secondary rings and meshes are wanting. Two diverging families, the Semantida and Coronida, have been developed from the Stephanida, and from one of them the family Tympanida has arisen.

The Semantida (p. 953, Pl. 92) develop a horizontal basal ring at the oral side of the vertical sagittal ring; the basal meshes or lattice gates, which remain between the former and the latter, are the important cortinar pores (one pair jugular, one pair cardinal, p. 954); they usually appear inherited in the cortinar septum of the Cyrtellaria. In the Coronida (p. 967, Pls. 82, 94) a second vertical ring (the frontal ring) appears in addition to the sagittal ring; it lies in the frontal plane at right angles to the latter. Finally the Tympanida (p. 987, Pls. 93, 94) have probably arisen from the Semantida by the formation of a second horizontal ring (mitral ring) parallel to the basal and attached to the upper portion of the sagittal ring.

188. Genealogical Tree of the Spyroidea.—The extensive order Spyroidea is of especial interest in connection with the phylogeny of the Nassellaria, since all its members show two well-developed skeletal elements in combination, the sagittal ring of the Stephoidea and the latticed cephalis of the Cyrtoidea; the majority possess also the basal tripod of the Plectoidea (or a radial skeleton derived from it). Hence there is a possibility of deriving the stem-forms of the Spyroidea from each of these three groups. The four families of this order exhibit similar relationships to those of the four families of Cyrtoidea; the common stem-group is the family Zygospyrida; from this the Tholospyrida have arisen by the development of a galea on the apical pole, the Phormospyrida by the addition of a thorax on the basal pole. The Androspyrida may be derived either from the Tholospyrida by the formation of a basal thorax, or from the Phormospyrida by the development of an apical galea. Some groups, however, such as the peculiar Nephrospyrida (Pl. 90) have probably been developed directly from the Stephoidea.

189. Genealogical Tree of the Botryodea.—The peculiar order Botryodea (p. 1103), which is both difficult to investigate and insufficiently known, presents great phylogenetic difficulties both as to its ascent and descent. Probably the different genera of this order have been polyphyletically developed from different groups of Cyrtoidea (perhaps also to some extent of Spyroidea) by the formation of lobes in the cephalis. The three families of Botryodea are related to each other in the same way as are the three first families of the Cyrtoidea. From the single-jointed Cannobotryida (corresponding to the Monocyrtida), the two-jointed Lithobotryida (corresponding to the Dicyrtida), may be derived by the development of a basal thorax, and from the latter the three-jointed Pylobotryida (like the Tricyrtida) by the addition of an abdomen. In the last two families the forms with an open basal mouth {cxxii}(Botryopylida and Botryocyrtida) are to be regarded as primitive: the Botryocellida and Botryocampida have arisen by the closure of this mouth with a basal lattice-plate.

190. Genealogical Tree of the Cyrtoidea.—The multiform and extensive group Cyrtoidea presents the greatest difficulties to be found in the phylogeny of the Nassellaria, because their morphological relations are most complicated, and because similar forms very often appear to be of quite different origin. The great majority of the Cyrtoidea show more or less clearly a combination of the three structural elements: sagittal ring, basal tripod, and latticed cephalis (p. 891). There are also, however, numerous Cyrtoidea, whose skeleton no longer shows any trace of the sagittal ring. Many of these show as the basis of the skeleton a strong basal tripod with an apical spine, around which the cephalis has obviously been secondarily developed, e.g., the remarkable Euscenida (p. 1146, Pls. 53, 97) and the interesting Callimitrida (p. 1217, Pls. 63, 64). These may have been derived immediately from the Plectoidea without any relation to the Stephoidea. There are also numerous true Monocyrtida, whose shell consists of a simple latticed cephalis without a trace of the sagittal ring or basal tripod (Cyrtocalpida, Pl. 51, figs. 9-13; Pl. 98, fig. 13); these may have been developed directly from the skeletonless Nassellida by the formation of a simple ovoid Gromia-like shell, and may have no relation either to the Stephoidea or Plectoidea. On these grounds, as well as from the complicated relationships of the many smaller groups of Cyrtoidea, it is probable that the whole order has been developed polyphyletically from different divisions of the Plectellaria.

191. Systematic Arrangement of the Cyrtoidea.—Although for the reasons just given no systematic arrangement of the Cyrtoidea can at present, or for a long time in the future, be regarded as other than artificial, yet some general principles of classification for this extensive group can be laid down, which may serve as starting points for some future natural disposition. This is especially true of the relations which in an artificial system (p. 1129) were primarily utilised for the distinction of twelve families and twenty-four subfamilies; the number of segments in the shell, the number of radial apophyses (and parameres), and the constitution of the basal aperture of the shell.

As regards the number of segments, separated by transverse constrictions, of which the shell is composed, it is dependent upon the secondary addition of new joints at the basal pole of the main axis. Hence all many-jointed Cyrtoidea are to be derived from single-jointed ones, and the four sections thus distinguished (Monocyrtida, Dicyrtida, Tricyrtida, Stichocyrtida) form a phylogenetic series. Very often, however, the primary cephalis disappears owing to retrograde metamorphosis; and in such cases the single joint of the apparent Monocyrtida is formed of the thorax (e.g., {cxxiii}Pls. 52, 54, &c.). As regards the number of radial apophyses, three sections of Cyrtoidea may be distinguished; the Pilocyrtida with three, the Astrocyrtida with numerous apophyses, and the Corocyrtida with none (p. 1129). The last two may in general be regarded as two divergent branches from the first, for the eradiate Corocyrtida have probably been formed from the triradial Pilocyrtida by entire loss of the radial apophyses, whilst on the other hand the multiradiate Astrocyrtida have arisen from them by additions to the primary apophyses (interpolation of interradial between the perradial ones). As regards the constitution of the shell-aperture, the Cyrtoidea may be divided into Cyrtaperta and Cyrtoclausa (p. 1129); in general the Cyrtoclausa (with latticed shell-aperture) have arisen from the Cyrtaperta (with simple open mouth); in many Monocyrtida the converse may be supposed, the simple basal mouth having been formed by degeneration of a basal lattice.

192. Phylogeny of the Phæodaria.—The legion Phæodaria or Cannopylea is so clearly marked off from other Radiolaria by the double membrane of the central capsule and the astropyle at its oral pole, as well as by the extracapsular phæodium, that it must be regarded phylogenetically as an independent stem (§ 9). This stem is only connected at its root by Phæodina with the stem-form of the Spumellaria, Actissa. The stem itself is monophyletic, inasmuch it its members may be derived without violence from the skeletonless Phæodinida (Phæodina, Phæocolla). On the other hand, the formation of the skeleton of the Phæodaria is undoubtedly polyphyletic, different Phæodinida having independently commenced the formation of a skeleton and having carried it out in very different ways.

193. Origin of the Phæodaria.—The Phæodinida (p. 1544, Pl. 101), which may naturally be regarded as the common stem-group of the Phæodaria, have their nearest relations among other Radiolaria in the Thalassicollida (p. 10); and since this family is to be regarded as the primitive group of all Radiolaria, they may be directly derived from them phylogenetically. The essential modifications by which the primitive Phæodinida have arisen from the more archaic Thalassicollida are of three kinds; (1) the doubling of the membrane of the central capsule; (2) the reduction of the numerous fine pores in the membrane and the formation of an osculum, and of an astropyle closing it, at the oral pole of the main axis; (3) the production of an extracapsular phæodium. This last may, perhaps, be regarded as a unilateral hypertrophy of the voluminous pigment masses which are deposited in the sarcomatrix of certain Thalassicollida. Of the two genera of Phæodinida hitherto known, probably Phæodina (Pl. 101, fig. 2) approaches the original stem of the Phæodaria more nearly than Phæocolla (Pl. 101, fig. 1), for the latter exhibits only the large main opening of the central capsule (astropyle), whilst the former possesses also a pair of accessory openings (parapylæ). The hypothetical stem-form (Phæometra) presumably had a larger number of small parapylæ (like many Circoporida and Tuscarorida), and the astropyle was probably but little differentiated from them.

195. Phæocystina and Phæocoscina.—Whilst the malacoma of all Phæodaria possesses the characteristics of the legion, and hence justifies the assumption of a monophyletic origin, the skeleton, on the other hand, shows in the different groups such manifold and fundamental variations that a polyphyletic origin of the latter is indubitable. Different Phæodinida have commenced the formation of the skeleton independently, and it has progressed in different directions. In the Phæocystina it remained incomplete and led to the formation of various Beloid skeletons, whilst the Phæocoscina developed complete lattice-shells. Both of these divisions too are to be regarded as polyphyletic, since the skeletal forms of the different groups cannot be derived without violence from a common primitive form.

196. Phæocystina with a Beloid Skeleton.—The order Phæocystina includes all Phæodaria which have no complete lattice-shell; it contains, firstly, the skeletonless Phæodinida (the common stem-group of the legion), and secondly, the Phæacanthida, or Phæodaria with a Beloid skeleton (§ 115). The latter are divisible into several very different groups (at least two or three) which are probably different in origin. The Aulacanthida (Pls. 102-105) form radial tubes which perforate the calymma, their proximal end resting upon the surface of the central capsule, whilst the distal extremity projects freely outwards. The skeleton of the Cannorrhaphida, on the other hand, is composed of many separate portions which are never radially arranged but are either placed tangentially to the surface of the calymma or scattered irregularly in its gelatinous mass. Furthermore, in the three subfamilies of which this family is composed, the individual skeletal portions are so different that they have probably arisen independently of each other; in the Cannobelida they form cylindrical tangential tubes (Pl. 101, figs. 3-5), in the Catinulida flat basin or cap-like structures (Pl. 117, fig. 8), in the Dictyochida hollow rings, from which small pyramids are developed by unilateral formation of lattice-work (Pl. 101, figs. 9-14; Pl. 114, figs. 7-12).

197. Phæosphæria with a Sphæroid Skeleton.—The order Phæosphæria includes those Phæodaria which possess a spherical (sometimes slightly modified) lattice-shell without the characteristic aperture of the Phæogromia. They have probably arisen independently of these, though they may have been derived from the Castanellida by loss of the shell-aperture, which was present originally. The four families which we have distinguished among the Phæosphæria, are so different in the structure of their lattice-shell that their phylogenetic connection is doubtful. In the Orosphærida (Pls. 106, 107) and the Sagosphærida (Pl. 108) the whole lattice-shell consists of a single piece and is unjointed (without astral septa); in the former it is very firm and massive, with thick laminated trabeculæ and polygonal meshes; in the latter it is very delicate and brittle, with filiform trabeculæ and large {cxxvi}triangular meshes. On the other hand, the voluminous shell of the Aulosphærida (Pls. 109-111), and of the Cannosphærida (Pl. 112), is characterised by a very peculiar system of joints; it is composed of numerous separate cylindrical tubes, which are placed tangentially and united at the nodes by stellate partitions or astral septa. The Cannosphærida possess further a simple central Cyrtoid shell, connected with the outer jointed shell by hollow radial trabeculæ. Since many Aulosphærida possess rudiments of such centripetal trabeculæ it is possible that these latter have been derived from the former by the loss of the central Cyrtoid shell; the formation of this monaxon shell perhaps indicates descent from the Phæogromia (Castanellida).

198. Phæogromia with a Cyrtoid Skeleton.—That order of the Phæodaria which we designate Phæogromia, contains many very different forms, all agreeing in the possession of a Cyrtoid skeleton, or a monaxon lattice-shell, which has a large aperture at one pole of its vertical main axis (§ 123). This Cyrtoid skeleton is sometimes ovoid or conical, sometimes lentiform or helmet-shaped, sometimes polyhedral or almost spherical. Although the principle of its structure is simple and often like that of the Monocyrtida among the Nassellaria, yet the structure of the wall and of the apophyses is so different in the various groups of the Phæogromia, that the order is probably polyphyletic, and its Cyrtoid shells have arisen independently of each other. Only in the Castanellida (Pl. 113) does the shell-wall usually consist of simple lattice-work; in the Challengerida, on the other hand (Pl. 99), it has an extremely fine Diatom-like structure; in the Medusettida (Pls. 118-128) a peculiar alveolar structure, and in the Circoporida (Pls. 114-117) and Tuscarorida (Pl. 100) it possesses a characteristic porcellanous constitution (with tangential spicules in a porous cement-mass); in the latter of these groups the surface is smooth, in the former peculiarly tabulate; the two families have also different stem-forms.

199. Phæoconchia with a Conchoid Shell.—The order Phæoconchia (Pls. 121-128) is separated not only from all other Phæodaria, but also from all other Radiolaria, by the possession of a bivalved shell resembling that of a Lamellibranch; the two valves of this Conchoid skeleton are to be interpreted as dorsal and ventral (§ 128). Probably these bivalved shells are independent products, but possibly they may have been formed by the bisection of a simple spherical lattice-shell; in the former case the Phæoconchia would be directly descended from the Phæodinida, in the latter from the Castanellida. The three families which we have distinguished among the Phæoconchia, probably constitute a connected stem, the most primitive group of which are the Concharida (Pls. 123-125). From these the Cœlodendrida (Pls. 121, 122) have next arisen by the formation of a "galea" upon the apex of each valve, and the growth of hollow tubes from this helmet-like structure. Finally, the Cœlographida {cxxvii}(Pls. 120-128) have been developed from the Cœlodendrida by the formation of a basal nasal tube (rhinocanna) from each galea, and the formation of a median or paired frenulum, which connects the opening of the nasal tube with the apex of the galea. In the Cœlodendrida, as well as in the Cœlographida, there are two different subfamilies, of which the more primitive (Cœlodorida, Cœlotholida) have free branches from the hollow radial tubes, whilst the more recent (Cœlodrymida, Cœloplegmida) form an outer bivalved shell by anastomosis of the branches of the tubes.

200. The Fundamental Biogenetic Law.—The causal connection between ontogeny and phylogeny, which finds its most precise statement in the fundamental biogenetic law, holds in general for the Radiolaria as for all other organisms. In order to furnish direct proof of this, however, a complete empirical knowledge both of individual and of palæontological development would be necessary. In both these directions, as has been shown in the foregoing chapters, our knowledge of the Radiolaria is very incomplete and fragmentary, but still we are able to convince ourselves indirectly of the validity of the law as applied to Radiolaria by the aid of comparative anatomy. This is now so fully known to us (§§ 1-140) that we are able not only to draw a complete and satisfactory picture of their morphology, but also to arrive at most important conclusions regarding the ontogeny and phylogeny of the individual groups. As regards the formation of the multiform skeleton of the Radiolaria, most of the ontogenetic series of forms, with which we have become acquainted by comparative anatomy, are of palingenetic nature; that is, they are primarily due to inheritance and thus of direct phylogenetic significance. On the other hand, among the ontogenetic phenomena of the Radiolaria, as far as they have yet been investigated, only very few are cenogenetic, that is, brought about by adaptive modification and without direct significance as regards phylogeny.

PHYSIOLOGICAL SECTION.

Chapter VII.—VEGETATIVE FUNCTIONS.

(§§ 201-217.)

201. Mechanism of the Functions.—The vital phenomena of the Radiolaria are dependent upon the mechanical functions of their unicellular body, and like those of all other organisms, are to be referred to physical and chemical natural laws. All processes which appear in the life of the Radiolaria are, therefore, ultimately to be explained by the attraction and repulsion of the smallest particles, which compose the different portions of their unicellular body; and the sensation of pleasure or the opposite is in its turn the exciting cause of these elementary movements. Many adaptive arrangements in the Radiolarian organism may produce the appearance of being the premeditated result of causes working towards an end ("zweckthätig," causæ finales), but as opposed to this deceptive appearance it must here be expressly stated that these may be recognised in accordance with the developmental theory as the necessary consequence of mechanical causes (causæ efficientes).

Our physiological acquaintance with the Radiolaria has by no means progressed so far as our morphological, so that the incomplete communications which are placed here for the sake of completeness must be regarded merely as preliminary fragments, not as fully elaborated results. Since my recent investigations have been mainly in the direction of morphology, I can add but little to the physiological conclusions, which I stated at length in my monograph twenty-four years ago (L. N. 16, pp. 127-165). Recently the vegetative physiology of the Radiolaria has been much advanced by the recognition of the symbiosis with the Xanthellæ (§ 205, L. N. 22, 39, 42). In addition Karl Brandt has recently (1885) published several important contributions to the physiology of the Polycyttaria or Sphaerozoea (L. N. 52).

202. Distribution of Functions.—The distribution of the functions among the various parts of the unicellular organism of the Radiolaria corresponds directly to their anatomical composition, so that physiologically as well as morphologically the central capsule and the extracapsulum appear as the two coordinated main components. On the one hand the central capsule with its endoplasm and enclosed nucleus is the central organ of the "cell-soul" (Zellseele), the unit regulating its animal and vegetative functions, and the special organ of reproduction and inheritance. The extracapsulum forms, on the other hand, by its calymma the protective envelope of the central {cxxix}capsule, the support of the soft pseudopodia and the substratum of the skeleton; the calymma acts also as a hydrostatic apparatus, whilst the radiating pseudopodia are of the greatest importance both as organs of nutrition and adaptation, as well as of motion and sensation (§ 15). If, however, the vital functions as a whole be divided in accordance with the usual convention into the two great groups of vegetative (nutrition and reproduction) and animal (motion and sensation), then the central capsule would be mainly the organ of reproduction and sensation, and the extracapsulum the organ of nutrition and motion.

The numerous separate vital phenomena, which by accurate physiological investigation may be distinguished in the unicellular Radiolarian organism, may be distributed in the above indicated conventional fashion into a few larger and several smaller groups; it must always be borne in mind, however, that these overlap in many respects, and that the division of labour among the different organs in these Protista is somewhat complicated, notwithstanding the apparent simplicity of their unicellular organization. A general classification of the groups of functions is difficult, because each individual organ discharges several different functions. Thus the central capsule is pre-eminently the organ of reproduction and inheritance, but not less (though less conspicuous) is its importance as the psychical central organ, the unit regulating the processes of sensation, motion, and also nutrition. In this last respect it is comparable to the nerve-centres of the Metazoa, whilst the peripheral nervous system of the latter (including the organs of sense and the muscles) are in the present instance represented by the pseudopodia, which are at the same time the most important organs of nutrition and adaptation. In the calymma also in similar fashion several different physiological functions are united.

203. Metastasis.—The functions of metastasis and nutrition have in all Radiolaria a purely animal character, so that these Rhizopoda from the physiological standpoint are to be regarded as truly unicellular animals, or Protozoa ("Urthiere"). Since they do not possess, like plants, the power of forming synthetically the compounds (protoplasm, carbohydrates, &c.) necessary for their sustenance, they are compelled to obtain them ready-formed from other organisms. Like other true animals they evolve carbon dioxide by the partial oxidation of those products, and hence they successively take up the oxygen necessary to their existence from their environment.

The question whether the Radiolaria are to be regarded as true animals I discussed fully from various points of view in 1862, and finally answered in the affirmative (L. N. 16, pp. 159-165). Afterwards, when in my Generelle Morphologie (1866) I sought to establish the kingdom Protista, I removed the Radiolaria along with the other Rhizopoda from the animal kingdom proper and placed them in the kingdom Protista (Bd. i. pp. 215-220; Bd. ii. p. xxix). Compare also my Protistenreich (L. N. 32) and my Natürliche Schöpfungsgeschichte (vii. Aufl., 1879, p. 364). Both these steps appear fully justified when considered in the light of our present increased knowledge. From the physiological standpoint the Radiolaria appear as unicellular animals, for in this respect the animal character of their metastasis (that proper to an oxidising organism) furnishes the sole {cxxx}criterion. On the other hand, from the morphological standpoint, they are to be classed as neutral Protista, for in this respect their unicellular character is the prominent feature, and distinguishes them from all true multicellular animals (Metazoa). Compare my Gastræa Theorie (1873, Jena. Zeitschr. für Naturwiss., Bd. viii. pp. 29, 53).

204. Nutrition.—The nutritive materials which the Radiolaria require for their sustenance, especially albuminates (plasma) and carbohydrates (starch, &c.), they obtain partly from foreign organisms which they capture and digest, and partly directly from the Xanthellæ or Philozoa, the unicellular Algæ, with which they live in symbiosis (§ 205). Zooxanthella intracapsularis, found in the Acantharia (§ 76), is probably of the same significance in this respect as Zooxanthella extracapsularis of the Spumellaria and Nassellaria (§ 90); and perhaps the same is true also of Phæodella extracapsularis (or Zoochlorella phæodaris?) of the Phæodaria (§ 89). The considerable quantity of starch or amyloid bodies, elaborated by these inquiline symbiontes, as well as their protoplasm and nucleus, are available, on their death, for the nutrition of the Radiolaria which harbour them. Nutrition by means of other particles obtained by the pseudopodia from the surrounding medium is by no means excluded; indeed it may be regarded as certain that numerous Radiolaria (especially such as contain no symbiotic Algoid cells) are nourished for the most part or exclusively by this means. Diatoms, Infusoria, Thalamophora (Foraminifera) as well as decaying particles of animal and vegetable tissues can be seized directly by the pseudopodia and conveyed either to the sarcodictyum (on the surface of the calymma) or to the sarcomatrix (on the surface of the central capsule) in order to undergo digestion there. The indigestible constituents (siliceous shells of Diatoms and Tintinnoidea, calcareous shells of small Monothalamia and Polythalamia, &c.) are here collected often in large numbers and removed by the streaming of the protoplasm.

The inception and digestion of nutriment, as it usually appears to take place by the pseudopodia, has already been so fully treated in my Monograph (L. N. 16, pp. 135-140), and since then in my paper on the sarcode body of the Rhizopoda (L. N. 19, p. 342), that I have nothing of importance to add. Quite recently Karl Brandt has expressed a doubt as to whether the taking up of formed particles by the pseudopodia and their aggregation in the calymma be really connected with the process of nutrition. He is disposed rather to believe that these foreign bodies are usually only accidentally and mechanically brought into the calymma, and that the nourishment of the Radiolaria is derived exclusively or pre-eminently from the symbiotic Xanthellæ (L. N. 52, pp. 88-93). I must, however, maintain my former opinion, which I have only modified insomuch that I now regard the sarcodictyum (on the outer surface of the calymma, § 94) rather than the sarcomatrix (on the outer surface of the central capsule, § 92) as the principal seat of true digestion and assimilation. From the sarcodictyum the dissolved and assimilated nutritive matters may pass by the intracalymmar pseudopodia (or sarcoplegma, § 93) into the sarcomatrix, and hence may reach the endoplasm through the openings in the central capsule. To what an extent the Radiolaria are capable of taking up even large formed bodies into the calymma, is shown by the {cxxxi}striking instance of Thalassicolla sanguinolenta, which becomes so deformed by the inception of numerous coccospheres and coccoliths, that I described it as a special genus under the name Myxobrachia (compare pp. 23, 30; also L. N. 21, p. 519, Taf. xviii., and L. N. 33, p. 37).

205. Symbiosis.—Very many Radiolaria, but by no means all members of this class, live in a definite commensal relation with yellow unicellular Algæ of the group Xanthellæ. In the Acantharia they live within the central capsule (Zooxanthella intracapsularis, § 76), in the Spumellaria and Nassellaria, on the other hand, within the calymma but outside the central capsule (Zooxanthella extracapsularis, § 90); in the Phæodaria a special form of these symbiotic unicellular Algæ appears to inhabit the phæodium in the extracapsulum, and to compose a considerable portion of the phæodellæ (Zooxanthella phæodaris, § 90, or better perhaps Zoochlorella phæodaris, § 89). Undoubtedly this commensal life is in very many cases of the greatest physiological significance for both the symbiontes, for the animal Radiolarian cells furnish the inquiline Xanthellæ not only with shelter and protection, but also with carbon dioxide and other products of decomposition for their nutriment; whilst on the other hand the vegetable cells of the Xanthellæ yield the Radiolarian host its most important supply of nutriment, protoplasm and starch, as well as oxygen for respiration. Hence it is not only theoretically possible, but has been experimentally proved, that Radiolaria which contain numerous Xanthellæ can exist without extraneous nutriment for a long period in closed vessels of filtered sea-water, kept exposed to the sunlight; the two symbiontes furnish each other mutually with nourishment, and are physiologically supplementary to each other by reason of the opposite nature of their metastasis. This symbiosis is not necessary, however, for the existence of the Radiolaria; for in many species the number of Xanthellæ is very variable and in many others they are entirely wanting.

The symbiosis of the Radiolaria and Xanthellæ, or "yellow cells" (§§ 76, 90) was first discovered by Cienkowski in 1871 (L. N. 22). Ten years later this important and often doubted fact was established by extended observations and experiments almost simultaneously by Karl Brandt (L. N. 38, 39) and Patrick Geddes (L. N. 42, 43). This commensal life may be compared with that of the lichens, in which an organism with vegetable metastasis (the Algoid gonidia) and an organism with animal metastasis (the Fungoid hyphæ) are intimately united for mutual benefit. But the symbiosis of the Xanthellæ and Radiolaria is not as in the lichens a phenomenon essential for their development, but has more or less the character of an accidental association. The number of the inquiline Xanthellæ is so variable even in one and the same species of Radiolaria, that they do not appear to be exactly essential to its welfare; and in many species they are entirely wanting. Their significance is questionable in the case of those numerous deep-sea Radiolaria which live in complete darkness, and in which, therefore, the Xanthellæ, even if present, could excrete no oxygen on account of the want of light. Nevertheless it is possible that the phæodellæ of the Phæodaria (usually green, olive, or brown in colour), which are true cells, represent vegetable symbiontes, {cxxxii}which in the absence of sunlight are able to evolve oxygen by the aid of the phosphoresence of other abyssal animals. Since the Phæodaria are, for the most part, dwellers in the deep-sea, and since the voluminous phæodium must be of great physiological importance, a positive solution of this hypothetical question would be of no small interest (compare § 89).

206. Respiration.—The respiration of the Radiolaria is animal in nature, since all Protista of this class, like all other true Rhizopoda, take in oxygen and give off carbon dioxide. Probably this process goes on continuously and is tolerably active, as may be inferred from the fact that Radiolaria cannot be kept for long in small vessels of sea-water unless either they contain numerous Xanthellæ or the water is well aërated. The oxygen is obtained from two sources, either from the surrounding water or from the enclosed Xanthellæ, which in sunlight evolve considerable quantities of this gas. Correspondingly, the carbon dioxide which is formed during the process of oxidation of the Radiolaria is either given up to the surrounding water or to the inquiline Xanthellæ, which utilise it for their own sustenance (§§ 204, 205).

The significance of the symbiotic Xanthellæ for the respiration of the enclosing Radiolaria may be shown experimentally in the following way. If two Polycyttarian colonies of equal size, both of which contain numerous Xanthellæ, be placed in equal quantities of filtered sea-water in sealed glass tubes, and if one tube be placed in the dark the other in the light, the colony in the former rapidly perishes, but not that in the latter; the Xanthellæ excrete only under the influence of sunlight the oxygen necessary for the life of the Radiolarian (compare Patrick Geddes, L. N. 42, p. 304).

207. Circulation.—In the protoplasm of all Radiolaria, both inside and outside the central capsule, slow currents may be recognised which fall under the general term circulation, and have already been compared to the cyclosis in the interior of animal and vegetable cells, as well as to the sarcode streams in the body of other Rhizopoda. These plasmatic currents or "plasmorrheumata" probably continue throughout the whole life of the Radiolaria, and are of fundamental importance for the performance of their vital functions. They depend upon slow displacements of the molecules of the plasma (plastidules or micellæ) and cause a uniform distribution of the absorbed nutriment and a certain equalisation of the metastasis. Furthermore they are of great importance also in the inception of nutriment, the formation of the skeleton, locomotion, &c. Sometimes the circulation is directly perceptible in the plasma itself; but usually it is only visible owing to the presence of granules (sarcogranula), which are suspended in the plasma in larger or smaller numbers. The movements of these granules are usually regarded as passive, due to the active displacement of the molecules of the plasma. Although the intracapsular protoplasm is in communication with the extracapsular through the openings in the capsule membrane, nevertheless the currents exhibit certain differences {cxxxiii}in the two portions of the malacoma. It is sometimes possible, however, to recognise the direct connection between them and to observe how the granules pass through the openings in the capsule-membrane.

208. Currents in the Endoplasm.—Intracapsular circulation or a certain slow flowing of the plasma within the central capsule is probably just as common in the Radiolaria as without it, but it is not so easy to observe in the former case as in the latter. A more satisfactory proof of these endoplasmatic currents is furnished by the arrangement of the protoplasm within the central capsule, since this is (at all events in part) an effect produced by them. In this respect the two main divisions of the class show characteristic differences. In the Porulosa (the Spumellaria, § 77, and the Acantharia, § 78) the endoplasm is in general distinguished by a more or less distinct radial structure, which is to be regarded as the effect of alternating centripetal and centrifugal radial streams. In the Osculosa, on the other hand, this radial structure is absent and the intracapsular plasmatic streams converge or diverge towards the osculum or main-opening in the central capsule which lies at the basal pole of its main axis, and through which the mass of the endoplasm issues into the calymma. The two legions of the Osculosa, however, present differences in this respect. In the Nassellaria (§ 79) the endoplasmatic currents appear to unite in an axial main stream at the apex of the monaxon central capsule, and this apical stream seems to split into a conical bundle, the individual threads of which pass diverging between the myophane fibrillæ of the podoconus towards the basis of the central capsule, and issue through the pores of the porochora. In the Phæodaria (§ 80), on the other hand, meridional currents of endoplasm are probably present on the inner surface of the capsule, which flow from the aboral pole of the vertical main axis to its basal pole, and return in the reverse direction.

209. Currents in the Exoplasm.—Extracapsular circulation, or a distinct flowing of the plasma outside the central capsule, may be readily observed in all Radiolaria which are examined alive; this is most readily seen in the astropodia, or those free pseudopodia which radiate from the sarcodictyum on the surface of the calymma into the surrounding water. The granular movement is often quite as clear in the sarcodictyum itself, and may be recognised in the collopodia, which compose the irregular plasmatic network within the calymma. More rarely it is possible to follow the granular stream thence through the sarcomatrix, and further into the interior of the central capsule. In general the direction of the extracapsular protoplasmic streams is radial, and it is frequently possible, even in a single free astropodium, to observe two streams opposite in direction, the granules on one side of the radial sarcode thread moving centripetally, those on the other side centrifugally. If the threads branch, and neighbouring ones {cxxxiv}become united by connecting threads, the circulation of the granules may proceed quite irregularly in the network thus formed. The rapidity and character of the extracapsular currents are subject to great variations.

The different forms of extracapsular sarcode currents have been already very fully described in my Monograph (L. N. 16, pp. 89-126), and in my critical essay on the sarcode body of the Rhizopoda (L. N. 19, p. 357, Taf. XXVI.).

210. Secretion.—Under the name secretions, in the strict sense, all the skeletal formations of the Radiolaria may be included. They may be divided according to their chemical composition into three different groups: pure silica in the Spumellaria and Nassellaria, a silicate of carbon in the Phæodaria, and acanthin in the Acantharia (compare § 102). It may indeed be assumed that these skeletons arise directly by a chemical metamorphosis (silicification, acanthinosis, &c.) of the pseudopodia and protoplasmic network; and this view seems especially justified in the case of the Astroid skeleton of the Acantharia (§ 114), the Spongoid skeleton of the Spumellaria (§ 126), the Plectoid skeleton of the Nassellaria (§ 125), the Cannoid skeleton of the Phæodaria (§ 127), and several other types. On closer investigation, however, it appears yet more probable that the skeleton does not arise by direct chemical metamorphosis of the protoplasm, but by secretion from it; for when the dissolved skeletal material (silica, acanthin) passes from the fluid into the solid state, it does not appear as imbedded in the plasma, but as deposited from it. However, it must be borne in mind that a hard line of demarcation can scarcely, if at all, be drawn between these two processes. In the Acantharia the intracapsular sarcode is the original organ of secretion of the skeleton; in the other three legions, on the other hand, the extracapsulum performs this function (§§ 106, 107). In addition to the skeleton, we may regard as secretions (or excretions) the intracapsular crystals (§ 75) and concretions (§ 75A), and perhaps certain pigment-bodies (§§ 74, 88); and further, the calymma (§ 82) may be considered to be a gelatinous secretion of the central capsule, and perhaps also the capsule-membrane, in so far as it represents only a secondary excretory product of the unicellular organism.

211. Adaptation.—The innumerable and very various adaptive phenomena which we meet with in the morphology of the Radiolaria, and especially in that of their skeleton, are like other phenomena of the same kind, to be ultimately referred to altered nutritional relations. These may be caused directly either by the influence of external conditions of existence (nutrition, light, temperature, &c.), or by the proper activity of the unicellular organism (use or disuse of its organs, &c.), or, finally, by the combined action of both causes in the struggle for existence. In very many cases the cause to which the origin of a particular form of Radiolaria is due may be directly perceived or at least guessed at with considerable probability; thus, for example, the lattice-shells {cxxxv}may be explained as protective coverings, the radial spines as defensive weapons, and the anchor-hooks and spathillæ as organs of prehension, which are of advantage to their possessors in the struggle for existence; the regular arrangement of the radial spines in the Radiolaria may also be explained on hydrostatic grounds, it being advantageous that the body should be maintained in a definite position of equilibrium, &c. The well-known laws of direct or actual adaptation, which we designate cumulative, correlative, divergent adaptation, &c., here explain a multitude of morphological phenomena. The connection is less distinct in the case of the laws of indirect or potential adaptation, although this must play as important a part in the formation of the Radiolaria as in that of other organisms (compare on this head my Generelle Morphologie, Bd. ii. pp. 202-222).

212. Reproduction.—The most common form of reproduction in the Radiolaria is the formation of spores in the central capsule, which in this respect is to be regarded as a sporangium (§ 215). In many Radiolaria (Polycyttaria and Phæodaria), however, there occurs in addition an increase of the unicellular organism by simple division (§ 213); upon this the formation of colonies in the social Radiolaria is dependent (§ 14). Reproduction by gemmation is much less common, and has hitherto been observed only in the Polycyttaria (§ 214). In this group alone there also occur at certain times two different forms of swarm-spores which copulate, and thus indicate the commencement of sexual reproduction (Alternation of Generations, § 216). The general organ of reproduction is in all cases the central capsule, whilst the extracapsulum never takes an active part in the process.

213. Cell-Division.—Increase by cell-division among the Radiolaria in the early stage, before the formation of the skeleton, is widely distributed (perhaps even general?); in the adults of this class it is rather rare and limited to certain groups. It is most readily observed in the Polycyttaria; the growth of the colonies in this social group depends mainly (and in many species exclusively) upon repeated spontaneous division of the central capsule; all the individuals of each colony (in so far as this has not arisen by the accidental fusion of two or more colonies) are descendants of a single central capsule, which has arisen from an asexual swarm-spore (§ 215) or from the copulation of two sexual swarm-spores (§ 216). Whilst the central capsules of the colonies continually increase by division, their calymma remains a common gelatinous sheath. Among the Spumellaria reproduction by simple cell-division probably occurs also in many monozootic Collodaria. Among the Acantharia the peculiar group Litholophida has perhaps arisen by the spontaneous division of Acanthonida (see p. 734). Among the Phæodaria increase by cell-division seems to occur commonly in many groups, as in the Phæocystina, which have no skeleton (Phæodinida, Pl. 101, {cxxxvi}fig. 2), or only an incomplete Beloid skeleton (Cannorrhaphida, Pl. 101, figs. 3, 6, and Aulacanthida, Pl. 104, figs. 1-3). The Phæosphæria also (Aulosphærida, Cœlacanthida) and the Phæogromia (Tuscarorida, Challengerida) appear sometimes to divide; at all events, their central capsule often contains two nuclei. Of special interest is the spontaneous division of the Phæoconchia, especially the Concharida (Pl. 124, fig. 6). In all monozootic Radiolaria, the nucleus first divides by a median constriction into two equal halves (usually by the mode of direct division); then the central capsule becomes constricted in the middle (in the Phæodaria in the vertical main axis), and each portion of the capsule retains its own nucleus. In the Phæoconchia each half or daughter-cell corresponds to one valve of the shell, dorsal or ventral, so that probably on subsequent separation each daughter-cell retains one valve of the mother-cell, and forms a new one for itself by regeneration (as in the Diatoms). In the polyzootic Radiolaria, which already contain many small nuclei, but usually only a single central oil-globule in each central capsule, the division of the latter is preceded by that of the oil-globule. In many Polycyttaria the colony as a whole multiplies by division.

The increase of the central capsule by division was first described in 1862 in my Monograph (L. N. 16, p. 146); since then R. Hertwig (L. N. 26, p. 24) and K. Brandt (L. N. 52, p. 144) have confirmed my statement. In the Phæodaria the division of the central capsule appears always to take place in the main axis; in the bilateral sometimes in the sagittal, sometimes in the frontal plane. In the Tripylea each daughter-cell seems to retain one parapyle and half the astropyle (compare the general description of the Phæodaria, Pl. 101, figs. 1-6, Pl. 104, figs. 1-3, and also Hertwig, L. N. 33, p. 100, Taf. x. figs. 2, 11). Regarding the spontaneous division of colonies of the Polycyttaria, see K. Brandt, L. N. 52, p. 142.

214. Cell-Gemmation.—Reproduction by gemmation has hitherto been observed only in the social Radiolaria, but in them it appears to be widely distributed, and in very young colonies is perhaps almost universally present. The gemmules or capsular buds (hitherto described as "extracapsular bodies") are developed on the surface of young central capsules before these had secreted a membrane. They grow usually in considerable numbers, from the surface of the central capsule, which is sometimes quite covered with them. Each bud usually contains a raspberry-like bunch of shining fatty globules, and by means of reagents a few larger or a considerable number of smaller nuclei may be recognised in them; the naked protoplasmic body of the bud is not enclosed by any membrane. As soon as the buds have reached a certain size they are constricted off from the central capsule and separated from it, being distributed in the meshes of the sarcoplegma by the currents in the exoplasm. Afterwards each bud becomes developed into a complete central capsule by surrounding itself with a membrane when it has attained a definite size. From the special relations of the process of nuclear formation, which take place in the multiplication of the {cxxxvii}social central capsules by gemmation and by cell-division, it would appear that the capsules produced by the former method afterwards produce anisospores, whilst those in the latter way yield isospores (§ 216).

The gemmules or capsular buds of the Polycyttaria were first accurately described by Richard Hertwig (L. N. 26, pp. 37-39), under the name "extracapsular bodies," and their significance rightly indicated; earlier observers had incidentally mentioned and figured them, but had not seen their origin from the central capsule. Quite recently Karl Brandt has given a very painstaking account of them in the different Polycyttarian genera (L. N. 52, pp. 179-198). In the Monocyttaria such a formation of buds has not yet been observed. The basal lobes of the central capsule, which occur in many Nassellaria, are not buds, but simple processes of the capsule, due to its protrusion through the collar pores of the cortinar septum (§ 55).

215. Sporification.—Asexual reproduction by the formation of movable flagellate spores has been hitherto observed only in a very small number of genera; but since these belong to very different groups, and since the comparative morphology of the capsule appears to be similar throughout as regards the structure and development of its contents, it may be safely assumed that this kind of reproduction occurs quite generally in the Radiolaria. In all cases it is the contents of the central capsule, from which the swarm-spores are formed, both nucleus and endoplasm taking an equal share in the process; in all cases the spores produced are very numerous, small, ovoid or reniform, and have one or two very long slender flagella at one extremity (see §§ 141, 142). Since the whole contents of the mature central capsule are used up in the formation of these flagellate zoospores, it discharges the function of a sporangium. The division of the simple primary nucleus into numerous small nuclei, which usually (serotinous Radiolaria) takes place only shortly before sporification, but sometimes (precocious Radiolaria, § 63) happens very early, is the commencement of the often repeated process of nuclear division, which terminates with the production of a very large number of small spore-nuclei. The nucleolus often divides very peculiarly (§ 69, C). Each spore nucleus becomes surrounded by a portion of endoplasm and usually receives in addition one or more fatty granules, and sometimes also a small crystal (hence the "crystal-spores"). The size of the flagellate zoospores which emerge from the ruptured central capsule and swim freely in the water by means of their flagellum, varies generally between 0.004 and 0.008 mm. The extracapsulum is not directly concerned in the sporification, but undergoes degeneration during the process and perishes at its conclusion.

The first complete and detailed observations on the formation of spores in the Radiolaria were published by Cienkowski in 1871 and related to two genera of Polycyttaria, the skeletonless Collozoum and the spherical-shelled Collosphæra (L. N. 22, p. 372, Taf. xxix.). These were subsequently continued and supplemented by R. Hertwig (1876, L. N. 26, pp. 26-42, and L. N. 33, p. 129), and a general summary of these results has been given by Bütschli (L. N. 41, pp. 449-455). {cxxxviii}Recently Karl Brandt has given a very detailed and fully illustrated account of the sporification of the Polycyttaria (L. N. 52, pp. 145-178). I have also had the opportunity during my sojourn in the Canary Islands (1866), in the Mediterranean at Corfu (1877), and Portofino (1880), as well as in Ceylon (1881), of observing the development of flagellate zoospores from the central capsule of individuals of all four legions: among the Spumellaria in certain Colloidea, Beloidea, Sphæroidea, and Discoidea, among the Acantharia in several Acanthometra and Acanthophracta, among the Nassellaria in individuals belonging to the Stephoidea, Plectoidea, and Cyrtoidea, and among the Phæodaria in one Castanellid. In most zoospores I could distinctly observe only a single long flagellum; sometimes, however, two or even three appeared to be present, but the determination of their number is very difficult.

216. Alternation of Generations.—A peculiar form of reproduction, which may be designated "alternation of generations," appears to occur generally in the Polycyttaria, but has not yet been observed in the Monocyttaria. All Collozoida, Sphærozoida, and Collosphærida which have hitherto been carefully and completely examined with respect to their development, are distinguished by the production of two different kinds of swarm-spores, isospores and anisospores. The Isospores (or monogonous spores) correspond to the ordinary asexual zoospores of the Monocyttaria (§ 215); they possess a homogeneous, doubly refracting nucleus of uniform constitution and develop asexually, without copulation. The Anisospores (or amphigonous spores), on the other hand, are sexually differentiated and possess a heterogeneous, singly refracting nucleus of twofold constitution; they may therefore be distinguished as female macrospores and male microspores. The Macrospores (or gynospores, comparable with the female macrogonidia of many Cryptogams) are larger, less numerous, and possess larger nuclei, which are less easily stained, and have a fine filiform trabecular network. On the other hand the Microspores (or androspores, comparable with the male microgonidia) are much smaller and more numerous, and are distinguished by their smaller nuclei, which have thicker tuberculæ and become stained more intensely. The gynospores and androspores are developed in the Collozoida and Sphærozoida in the same individual, but not in the Collosphærida. It is very probable that these two forms of anisospores copulate with each other after their exit from the central capsule and thus produce a new cell by the simplest mode of sexual reproduction. But, since the same Polycyttaria, which produce these anisospores, at other times give rise to ordinary or asexual isospores, it is further possible that these two forms of reproduction alternate with each other, and that the Polycyttaria thus pass through a true alternation of generations. This has not yet been observed in the Monocyttaria, and hence these latter seem to bear to the Polycyttaria a relation similar to that in which the sexless solitary Flagellata (Astasiea) stand to the sexual social Flagellata (Volvocinea). In the two analogous cases the sexual differentiation may be regarded as a consequence of the social life in the gelatinous colonies.

The sexual differentiation of the Polycyttaria was first discovered in 1875 by R. Hertwig, and accurately described in the case of Collozoum inerme as occurring in addition to the formation of the ordinary crystal-spores (L. N. 26, p. 36); compare also the general discussion of Bütschli (L. N. 41, p. 52). Recently Karl Brandt has demonstrated the formation of both homogeneous isospores (crystal-spores) and heterogeneous anisospores (macro- and microspores) in seven different species of Polycyttaria, and has come to the conclusion that in all social Radiolaria there is a regular alternation between the former and latter generations. Compare his elaborate account of the colonial Radiolaria of the Gulf of Naples (L. N. 52, pp. 145-178).

217. Inheritance.—Inheritance is to be regarded as the most important accompaniment to the function of reproduction, and especially in the present case, because the comparative morphology of the Radiolaria furnishes abundant instances of the action of its different laws. The laws of conservative inheritance are illustrated by the comparative anatomy of the larger groups; thus, in the four legions the characteristic peculiarities of the central capsule are maintained unaltered in consequence of continuous inheritance, although great varieties appear in the skeleton in each legion. The individual parts of the skeleton furnish by their development on the one hand and their degeneration on the other, especially in the smaller groups, examples of progressive inheritance. Thus in the Spumellaria the constant formation of the primary lattice-shell (a central medullary shell) and its ontogenetic relation to the secondary one, which is developed concentrically round it, can only be explained phylogenetically by conservative inheritance, whilst on the other hand the characteristic differentiation of the axes in the various families of Spumellaria is to be explained by progressive inheritance. In the Acantharia the arrangement of the twenty radial spines (in accordance with Müller's law, §§ 110, 172) was first acquired by a group of the most archaic Actinelida (Adelacantha) through hydrostatic adaptation, and has since been transmitted by inheritance to all the other families of the legion (Icosacantha). The morphology of the Nassellaria is not less interesting, because here several different heritable elements (the primary sagittal ring and the basal tripod) combine in the most manifold ways in the formation of the skeleton (compare §§ 123, 124, 182). The affinities of the genera in the different families yield an astonishing variety of interesting morphological phenomena, which can only be explained by progressive inheritance. The same is true also of the Phæodaria. In this legion the primary inheritance is especially manifested in the constant and firm structure of the central capsule with its characteristic double wall and astropyle, whilst the formation of the skeleton in this legion proceeds in different directions by means of divergent adaptation. The morphology of the Radiolaria thus proves itself a rich source of materials for the physiological study of adaptation and inheritance.

Chapter VIII.—ANIMAL FUNCTIONS.

(§§ 218-225.)

218. Motion.—In addition to the internal movements which appear generally in the unicellular Radiolaria and have already been mentioned as plasmatic currents in treating of the circulation (§§ 207-209), two different groups of external motor phenomena are to be observed in this class: first, the contraction of individual parts, which brings about modifications of form (§ 220), and secondly, voluntary or reflex locomotion of the whole body (§ 220). These movements are partly due to changes in form of undifferentiated plasmatic threads or sarcode filaments, partly to the actual contraction of differentiated filaments which are comparable to muscle fibrillæ, and must therefore be distinguished as myophanes. In addition to this, endosmose and exosmose probably play an important part in some of the locomotive phenomena, but nothing is yet certainly known regarding these osmotic processes. We are at present equally ignorant whether all the movements of the Radiolaria are simply reflex (direct consequences of irritation) or whether they are in part truly spontaneous.

219. Suspension.—From direct observation of living Radiolaria, as well as from deductive reasoning, based upon their morphology (and especially their promorphology, §§ 17-50), the conclusion appears justified that all Protista of this class in their normal condition float suspended in the sea-water, either at the surface or at a definite depth. A necessary condition of this hydrostatic suspension is that the specific gravity of the Radiolarian organism must be equal to, or but slightly greater than that of sea-water. The increase in specific gravity brought about by the production of the siliceous skeleton, is compensated by the lighter fatty globules, and partly perhaps by the calymma, especially when the latter contains vacuoles or alveoles. The fluid or jelly contained in the latter appears to be for the most part lighter than sea-water (containing no salt, or only a very small quantity?). But if the specific gravity of the whole body should be generally (or perhaps always) slightly greater than that of sea-water, then the organism would be prevented from sinking, partly by the increased friction, due to the radiating pseudopodia and the radial spines usually present, and partly perhaps by active (if only feeble) movements of the pseudopodia.

220. Locomotion.—Active locomotion of the whole body, which is very probably to be regarded as voluntary, occurs in the Radiolaria in three different modes; (1) the vibratile movement of the flagellate swarm-spores; (2) the swimming of the floating organisms; (3) the slow creeping of those which rest accidentally upon the bottom. {cxli}The vibratile movement of the swarm-spores is the result of active sinuous oscillation of the single or multiple flagellum, and is not essentially different from that of ordinary flagellate Infusoria (see note A). Of the active swimming of mature Radiolaria, only that form is known which is vertical in direction and causes the sinking and rising in the sea-water. This is probably, for the most part (perhaps exclusively), due to increase or diminution in the specific gravity, which is perhaps brought about by the retraction or protrusion of the pseudopodia; slow, oscillating, sinuous motions of these organs have been directly observed to take place (though very slowly) in suspended living Radiolaria. The most important hydrostatic organ is probably the calymma, by the contraction of which the specific gravity is increased, while it is diminished by its expansion; the contraction is probably brought about by active contraction of the sarcodictyum, and is connected with exosmosis, while the expansion is probably due to the elasticity of the calymma and the inception of water by endosmosis. In the Acanthometra (§ 96) the peculiar myophriscs appear to be charged with the duty of distending the gelatinous envelope, and thus diminishing the specific gravity; the latter increases again when the myophriscs are relaxed, and the calymma contracts by virtue of its own elasticity (see note B). The slow creeping locomotion exhibited by Radiolaria on a glass slide under the microscope, does not differ from that of the Thalamophora (Monothalamia and Polythalamia), but can only occur normally when the animal accidentally comes into contact with a solid surface or sinks to the bottom of the sea. Whether this actually occurs periodically is not known (see note C). The slow or gliding locomotion exhibited by creeping Monozoa on a glass slide is due to muscle-like contractions of bundles of pseudopodia, just as in the case of the social central capsules of Polyzoa, which live together in the same cœnobium and are able to move within their common calymma sometimes centrifugally to its surface, sometimes towards the centre where they aggregate into a roundish mass (see note D).

A. Regarding the movement of the flagella in mature swarm-spores compare L. N. 22, p. 375; L. N. 26, pp. 31, 35; L. N. 41, p. 452, and L. N. 52, p. 170.

B. On the active vertical swimming movements of mature Radiolaria, especially the cause of sinking and rising, see L. N. 16, p. 134; L. N. 41, p. 443, and L. N. 52, pp. 97-102.

C. On the active horizontal creeping movements of mature Radiolaria on a firm ground, compare L. N. 12, p. 10, and L. N. 16, pp. 132-134.

D. Regarding the motion of social central capsules within the same cœnobium and the changes thus brought about in the structure of the calymma, see L. N. 16, pp. 119-127, and L. N. 52, pp. 75-82.

221. Contraction.—Motions, which are due to the contraction of individual portions and cause changes in volume or form, have been partly already spoken of under the head of locomotion (§ 220) and are partly connected with other functions. Examples may be seen in the contraction of the central capsule and of the calymma. A certain {cxlii}contraction of the central capsule is probably brought about by the myophanes, which arise by differentiation of the endoplasm and hence may assume different forms in the four legions. In the Spumellaria, where numerous radial fibrillæ run from the central nucleus to the capsule membrane (§ 77), the endoplasm is probably driven out evenly through all the pores of the capsule membrane by their simultaneous contraction, and hence the volume of the capsule is diminished in all directions. The Acantharia probably behave similarly, but are different, inasmuch as the number of their contractile radial fibrillæ is less, and special axial threads (§ 78) are already differentiated. In the Nassellaria it is probable that owing to the contraction of the divergent myophane fibrillæ in the podoconus the vertical axis of the latter is shortened, the opercular rods of the porochora are lifted, and the endoplasm driven out of its pores, so that the volume of the monaxon central capsule is diminished (§ 79). In the Phæodaria the same result is probably brought about by the contraction of the cortical myophane fibrillæ, which run meridionally along the inside of the capsule membrane from the apical to the basal pole of the vertical main axis, where they are inserted into the periphery of the astropyle; since the volume of the capsule is diminished by their contraction (their spheroidal figure becoming more nearly spherical) the endoplasm will be driven out through the proboscis of the astropyle. Whilst these contractions of the central capsule are largely due to differentiated muscle-like threads of endoplasm (myophanes), this appears to be but rarely the case with the contractions of the extracapsulum (e.g., the myophriscs of the Acanthometra, § 96). Most of the phenomena of contraction which can be observed in the calymma and pseudopodia depend upon exoplasmatic currents (§ 209).

222. Protection.—Of the utmost importance, both for the physiology and for the morphology of the Radiolaria are their manifold protective functions, which we now consider under the heading "protection." From the physiological point of view the consideration of the exposed situation in which the delicate, free-swimming Radiolarian organism lives, and the numerous dangers which beset it in the struggle for existence, would lead a priori to the expectation, that many special protective adaptations would be developed by natural selection. On the other hand, morphological experience shows us that this latter has been in action for immeasurable periods, and has gradually produced an abundance of the most remarkable protective modifications. Examples of these may be found in the formation of the voluminous calymma, as a gelatinous protective covering for the central capsule, and further, the formation of the capsule membrane itself, which separates the generative contents of the central capsule from the nutritive exoplasm. The phosphorescence of the central capsule, too (§ 223), may be regarded as a useful protective arrangement; as also the radiating of the numerous pseudopodia in all directions from the surface of the calymma; for they are of great significance to the {cxliii}well-being of the organism, both as sensory organs and as prehensile organs. By far the most important and most varied means for the actual defence of the soft body is to be seen in the endless modifications of the skeleton; first, in the production of the enclosing lattice-shells and projecting radial spines, but especially also in the very varied structure of the individual parts of the skeleton, and in the special differentiation of the small appendicular organs which grow out from it (hairs, thorns, spines, scales, spathillæ, anchors, &c.). Finally "mimicry" possesses a considerable significance among the different forms of adaptation which are to be observed in this class.

223. Phosphorescence.—Many Radiolarians shine in the dark, and their phosphorescence presents the same phenomena as that of other luminous marine organisms; it is increased by mechanical and chemical irritation, or renewed if already extinguished. The light is sometimes greenish, sometimes yellowish, and appears generally (if not always) to radiate from the intracapsular fatty spheres (§ 73). Thus these latter unite several functions, inasmuch as they serve, firstly, as reserve stores of nutriment, secondly, as hydrostatic apparatus, and thirdly, as luminous organs for the protection of the Radiolaria; probably the light acts by frightening other animals, for the phosphorescent animals are provided with spines, nettle-cells, poison glands or other defensive weapons. The production of the light depends probably, as in other phosphorescent organisms, upon the slow oxidation of the fat-globules, which combine with active oxygen in the presence of alkalis. Phosphorescence is very likely widely distributed among the Radiolaria.

The shining of the Radiolaria in the dark has been noticed by the earliest observers of the class (see L. N. 1, p. 163, L. N. 16, p. 2, and L. N. 52, pp. 136-139). In the winter of 1859 I observed the production of light in the case of many monozootic and polyzootic Radiolaria, but inadvertently omitted to record the fact in my Monograph. I made more accurate observations in the winter of 1866 at Lanzerote in the Canary Islands, and convinced myself the the light emanates from the central capsule, and in particular from the fat-globules contained in it. In most Polycyttaria (both Collosphærida and Sphærozoida), when each central capsule contains a large central oil-globule the light radiates from it. In Collozoum serpentinum (Pl. 3, figs. 2, 3) each cylindrical central capsule contains a row of luminous spherules like a string of beads. In Alacorys friderici (Pl. 65, fig. 1) the four-lobed central capsule contains four shining points. Karl Brandt has recently made more detailed communication on this point (L. N. 52, p. 137).

224. Sensation.—The general irritability which we ascribe to all organisms, and as the basis of which we regard the protoplasm, remains at an inferior stage of development in the Radiolaria. For although they are subject to various stimuli, and certainly possess a power of discrimination, special sensory organs are not differentiated; the peripheral portions of the protoplasm, and especially the pseudopodia, rather act both as organs of the different kinds of sensation and various modes of motion. That different Radiolaria have attained different degrees of development in this respect may be seen {cxliv}partly by direct observation of the reaction of the living organism towards various stimuli, and partly by the comparison of the different conditions of existence under which Radiolarians exist, both in the most various depths of the ocean and in all climatic zones (see note A). In general the Radiolaria seem to be sensitive to the following stimuli; (1) pressure (see note B); (2) temperature (see note C); (3) light (see note D); (4) chemical composition of the sea-water (see note E). The reaction towards these stimuli, corresponding to the sensation of pleasure or dislike which they call forth, is shown in various forms of motion of the protoplasm, changes in the currents in it, contraction of the central capsule, changes in the size, position, and form of the pseudopodia, changes in the volume of the calymma (by the evocation of water), &c. Among the sensory functions of the Radiolaria must be especially mentioned their remarkably developed perception of hydrostatic equilibrium (see note F), as well as their perception of distances, so clearly shown in the production of equal lattice-meshes and other regularly formed skeletal structures (see note G).

A. I can add but little to the communication which I made twenty-four years ago regarding sensation in the Radiolaria (L. N. 16, pp. 128-131). The most important point would be the great difference in irritability which must obtain between the pelagic, zonarial and abyssal Radiolaria, which may be assumed from a consideration of their very different conditions of existence as regards pressure, light, warmth, nutrition, &c. It is natural to suppose that the numerous abyssal Radiolaria, discovered by the Challenger, which live at great depths (2000 to 4500 fathoms) in complete darkness, in icy cold and under an enormous pressure, must have quite different sensations of pleasure from their pelagic relatives which live at the surface of the sea under an equatorial sun. Karl Brandt has recently added much to our knowledge regarding the special action of different vital conditions upon the various Polycyttaria and the degrees of their irritability (L. N. 52, pp. 113-132).

B. Regarding the sensation of pressure or sensation of touch of the Radiolaria and the various degrees of their mechanical irritability, see L. N. 16, p. 129; L. N. 41, p. 464.

C. Regarding the sensation of warmth or temperature-sense and its dependence upon different climatic relations, see L. N. 16, p. 129; L. N. 52, pp. 114-129.

D. Regarding the sensation of light, compare L. N. 16, p. 128; L. N. 42, p. 304; L. N. 52, pp. 102-104, 114.

E. Regarding the sense of taste of the Radiolaria or their peculiar sensitiveness towards the different chemical composition of the water, change in its salinity, presence of organic impurities, &c., see L. N. 16, p. 130; L. N. 52, pp. 103, 113. This chemical irritability seems to be the most highly developed sense in the Radiolaria, even more so than their mechanical irritability.

F. The perception of hydrostatic equilibrium among the Radiolaria is immediately visible from the position which their bodies, floating freely in the water, assume spontaneously, and from the symmetrical development of the skeleton, which by its gravitation necessitates a definite position. It may be assumed that the development of the various geometrical ground forms which correspond to a definite position of equilibrium, is the result of this particular kind of perception (compare §§ 40-45).

{cxlv}

G. The plastic perception of distance of the pseudopodia is shown by the symmetry with which the forms composing the regular skeletal structures (e.g., the ordinary lattice-spheres with regular hexagonal meshes, the radial spines with equidistant branches) are excreted from the exoplasm. Both this form of sensation and the one first mentioned (note F) have hitherto received scarcely any attention, but are deserving of a thorough physiological investigation.

225. The Cell-Soul (Zellseele).—The common central vital principle, commonly called the "soul," which is considered to be the regulator of all vital functions, appears in the Radiolaria as in other Protista in its simplest form, as the cell-soul. By the continual activity of this central "psyche" all vital functions are maintained in unbroken action, and in uniform correlation. It is also probable that by it the stimulations which the peripheral portions of the cell receive from the outer world are first transmitted into true sensation, and that, on the other hand, the volition, which alone calls forth spontaneous movements, proceeds from it. The central capsule is most likely the sole organ of this cell-soul or central psychic organ, and the active portion may be either the endoplasm or the nucleus, or both. The central capsule may thus (apart from its function as a sporangium, § 215) be regarded as a simple ganglion cell, physiologically comparable to the nervous centre of the higher animals, whilst the exoplasm (sarcomatrix and pseudopodia) are to be compared to the peripheral nervous system and sense organs of the latter. The great simplicity of the functions of the cell-soul which appear in the Radiolaria, and the intimate connection of their different psychic activities, give to these unicellular Protista a special significance for the comprehension of the monistic elements of a natural psychology.

Regarding the theory of the cell-soul as the only psychological theory which is able to explain naturally the true nature of the life of the soul in all organisms as well as in man, see my address on cell-souls and soul-cells ("Zellseelen und Seelenzellen") in Gesammelte populäre Vorträge aus dem Gebiete der Entwickelungslehre, Heft 1, p. 143; Bonn, 1878.

CHOROLOGICAL SECTION.

Chapter IX.—GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION.

(§§ 226-240.)

226. Universal Marine Distribution.—Radiolaria occur in all the seas of the world, in all climatic zones and at all depths. Probably under normal conditions they always float freely in the water, whether their usual position be at the surface (pelagic), or at a certain depth (zonarial), or near to the bottom of the sea (abyssal). This appears both from numerous direct observations, as well as from conclusions which may be drawn from their organisation (and especially their promorphology) regarding their floating life (compare §§ 40-50, 219, 220). Hitherto no observation has been recorded, which justifies the assumption that Radiolaria live anywhere upon the bottom of the sea (on stones, Algæ, or other firm substances), either sessile or creeping. They perform the latter action, however, when they fall accidentally upon a firm basis or are accidentally placed upon it, but they seem normally always to float freely in the water with pseudopodia radiating in all directions. Active free-swimming movements are only met with in the case of the flagellate zoospores (§ 142). The development of Radiolaria in large masses is very remarkable (see note A), and in many parts of the ocean is so great that they play an important part in the economy of marine life, especially as food for other pelagic and abyssal animals (see note B). Medium salinity of the water seems to be most favourable to their development in masses, although it is not unknown in seas of high and low salinity (see note C). There are no Radiolaria in fresh water (see note D).

A. The development of Radiolaria takes place in many parts of the ocean in astonishingly large masses on the surface, in different strata, and near the bottom. The Collodaria (and especially the Sphærozoida) often cover the surface of the sea in millions, and form a shining layer, phosphorescent in the dark like the Noctilucæ, as I observed in 1859 in the Strait of Messina, in 1866 at the Canaries, and in 1881 in the Indian Ocean. Similar masses of Sphærozoum and Acanthometron were seen by Johannes Müller on the French and Ligurian coasts (L. N. 12), and John Murray found another in the Gulf Stream, off the Færöe Islands, from the surface to a depth of 600 fathoms; considerable masses of large Phæodaria live there also.

B. The alimentary canal of Medusæ, Salpæ, Crustacea, Pteropoda, and many other pelagic animals is a rich field for the discovery of Radiolaria, and many of the species hereinafter described are from such sources. Fossil coprolites too (e.g., those from the Jura) often contain many Polycystina.

C. Some Acantharia (Acanthometra) and Phæodaria (species of Mesocena and Dictyocha) {cxlvii}live in the Baltic; I found their skeletons in the alimentary canal of Aurelia, Ascidians and Copepods.

D. The so-called "fresh-water Radiolaria," which have been described by Focke, Greeff, Grenacher and others, are all Heliozoa, without either central capsule or calymma.

227. Local distribution.—As regards their local distribution and its boundaries the Radiolaria show in general the same relations as other pelagic animals. Since they are only to a very slight extent, if at all, capable of active horizontal locomotion, the dispersion of the different species from their point of development (or "centre of creation") is dependent upon oceanic currents, the play of winds and waves and all the accidental causes which influence the transport of pelagic animals in general. These passive migrations are here, however, as always, of the greatest significance, and bring about the wide distribution of individual species in a far higher degree than any active wanderings could do. Any one who has ever followed a stream of pelagic animals for hours and seen how millions of creatures closely packed together are in a short time carried along for miles by such a current, will be in no danger of underestimating the enormous importance of marine currents in the passive migration of the fauna of the sea. Such constant currents may, however, be recognised both near the bottom of the sea and at various depths, as well as at the surface, and are therefore of just as much significance for the abyssal and zonarial as for the pelagic Radiolaria. It is easy to explain by this means how it is that so many animals of this class (probably indeed the great majority) have a wide range of distribution. The number of cosmopolitan species which live in the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans is already relatively large. In each of these three great ocean basins, too, many species show a wide distribution. On the other hand, there are very many species which are hitherto known only from one locality, and probably many small local faunas exist, characterised by the special development of particular groups. The observations which we at present possess are too incomplete, and the rich material of the Challenger is too incompletely worked out, to enable any definite conclusions to be drawn regarding the local distribution of Radiolaria.

The statements made in the systematic portion of this Report regarding the distribution of the Challenger Radiolaria are very incomplete. In most cases only one locality is mentioned, and that is the station (§ 240) in the preparations or bottom deposit from which I first found the species in question. Afterwards I often found the same species again in one or more additional stations (not seldom in numerous preparations both from the Pacific and Atlantic), without the possibility of adding them to the habitat recorded under the description. The necessary accurate determination and identification of the species (measuring the different dimensions, counting the pores, &c.), would have occupied too much time, and the writing of this extensive Report would have lasted not ten but twenty or thirty years.

228. Horizontal Distribution.—From the extensive collections of the Challenger and from the other collections which have furnished a welcome supplement to them, it appears {cxlviii}that Radiolaria are distributed throughout all seas without distinction of zones and physical conditions, even though these latter may be the cause of differences in their qualitative and quantitative development. In the case of the Radiolaria as well as of many other classes of animals, the law holds good that the richest development of forms and the greatest number of species occurs between the tropics, whilst the frigid zones (both Arctic and Antarctic) exhibit great masses of individuals, but relatively few genera and species (see note A). In the Challenger collection the greatest abundance of species of Radiolaria is exhibited by those preparations which were collected at low latitudes in the immediate neighbourhood of the equator; this is true both of the Atlantic (Stations 346 to 349) and of the Pacific (Stations 266 to 274); in the former the richest of all is Station 347 (lat. 0° 15′ S.), in the latter Station 271 (lat. 0° 33′ S.) (see note B). From the tropics the abundance of species seems to diminish regularly towards the poles, and more rapidly in the northern than in the southern hemisphere; the latter also appears, considered as a whole, to possess more species than the former. A limit to the life of the Radiolaria towards the poles has not yet been found; the expeditions towards the North Pole (see note C), like those towards the South (see note D), have obtained bottom-deposits and ice enclosures which contained Radiolaria; in some of the most northerly and most southerly positions which were reached the number of Radiolaria enclosed in the ice was relatively great.

A. The greater abundance of Radiolaria in the tropical seas is probably to be explained by the more favourable conditions of existence, and in particular the larger quantity of nutritive material (especially of decayed animals) and not by the higher temperature of the surface, for at depths of from 2000 to 3000 fathoms where the abyssal Radiolaria live, the temperature is but little above the freezing point or even below it (compare the bottom temperatures in the list of Challenger Stations, § 240).

B. Station 271 of the Challenger Expedition, situated almost on the equator in the Mid Pacific (lat. 0° 33′ S.), exceeds all other parts of the earth, hitherto known, in respect of its wealth in Radiolaria, and this is true of the pelagic as well as of the zonarial and abyssal forms. In the Station List the deposit at this point is stated to be "Globigerina ooze"; but after the calcareous matter has been removed by means of acid, the purest Radiolarian ooze remains, rich in varied and remarkable species. More than one hundred new species have been described from this Station alone.

C. Regarding the Arctic Radiolaria compare the contributions of Ehrenberg (L. N. 24, pp. 138, 139, 195) and Brady on the English North Polar Expedition, 1875-76 (Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., 1878, vol. i. pp. 425, 437).

D. Regarding the Antarctic Radiolaria, compare § 230, note A, and Ehrenberg, Mikrogeologie (L. N. 6, Taf. xxxv., A.), also L. N. 24, pp. 136-139.

229. Fauna of the Pacific Ocean.—From the splendid discoveries of the Challenger, and the supplementary observations obtained from other sources, the Pacific seems to be the ocean basin which is richest both quantitatively and qualitatively in Radiolarian life, {cxlix}excelling both the Indian and Atlantic Oceans in this respect. It may be assumed with great probability that by far the largest portion of the Pacific has a depth of between 2000 and 3000 fathoms, and that its bottom is covered either with Radiolarian ooze (§ 237) or with a red clay (§ 239), which contains many Spumellaria and Nassellaria, and has probably been derived for a great part from broken down and metamorphosed Radiolarian ooze (see note A). Pure Radiolarian ooze was found by the Challenger eastwards in the Central Pacific (over a wide area between lat. 12° N. and 12° S., Stations 265 to 274), and also westwards in the latitude of the Philippines, twenty degrees to the east of them (between lat. 5° N. and 15° N.). The great abundance of Radiolaria present in the neighbourhood of the Philippines and in the Sunda Sea was already known from other investigations (note B). The red clay also, which covers a great part of the bottom of the North Pacific, and which was obtained of very constant composition by the Challenger between lat. 35° N. and 38° N., from Japan to the meridian of Honolulu (from long. 144° E. to 156° W.), is so pre-eminently rich in Radiolaria that it often approaches in composition the Radiolarian ooze, and has probably been derived from it. The track of the Challenger through the tropical and northern parts of the Pacific describes nearly three sides of a rectangle, which includes about half of the enormous Pacific basin, and from this as well as from other supplementary observations it may with great probability be concluded that by far the largest part of the bed of the Pacific (at least three-fourths) is covered either with Radiolarian ooze or with red clay, which contains a larger or smaller amount of the remains of Radiolaria. With this agrees also the important fact that the numerous preparations of pelagic materials and collections of pelagic animals, which were collected by the Challenger in the Pacific, almost always indicate a corresponding amount of Radiolarian life on the surface. This is true in particular also of the South Pacific, between lat. 33° S. and 40° S. (from long. 133° W. to 73° W., Stations 287 to 301); the surface of this southern region and the different bathymetrical zones were rich in new and peculiar species of Radiolaria.

A. Many specimens of bottom-deposits from the Pacific, which are entered in the Challenger lists either as "red clay" or "Globigerina ooze," contain larger or smaller quantities of Radiolaria, and the number of different species of Spumellaria and Nassellaria which they contain is often so great that the deposit might have been almost as appropriately termed "Radiolarian ooze," e.g., Stations 241 to 245, and 270, 271 (compare §§ 236-239).

B. Pacific Radiolarian ooze was first obtained by Lieutenant Brooke (May 11, 1859) between the Philippines and Marianne Islands, from a depth of 3300 fathoms (lat. 18° 3′ N., long. 129° 11′ E.). Ehrenberg, who first described it, found seventy-nine different species of Polycystina in it, and reported "that their quantity and the number of different forms increased with the depth" (Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1860, pp. 466, 588, 766).

230. Fauna of the Indian Ocean.—As regards its Radiolarian fauna the Indian Ocean is the least known of the three great basins. Still the few limited spots, regarding which {cl}investigations are forthcoming, indicate a very rich development of Radiolarian life. Probably it approaches more nearly the fauna of the Pacific than that of the Atlantic, both as regards the abundance and the morphological characters of its species. The researches of the Challenger are very limited and incomplete as regards the Indian Ocean, for the expedition only just touched upon this great ocean basin (2000 to 3000 fathoms deep) at its two extremities (westwards at the Cape of Good Hope and eastwards at Tasmania), its course lying for the most part south of lat. 45° S. and extending beyond lat. 65° S. (from Station 149 to 158, south of lat. 50° S.). It is true that this portion of the South Indian Ocean was shown to contain Radiolaria everywhere, but these were more plentiful in individuals than in species. Only from Station 156 to Station 159 (between lat. 62° and 47° S., and long. 95° and 130° E.) was the bottom, which consisted partly of Diatom ooze and partly of Globigerina ooze, richer in species (see note A). The gaps left by the Challenger in the investigation of the Indian Ocean, have, however, been to some extent filled from other sources. As early as 1859 the English "Cyclops" expedition had shown that the bottom of the Indian Ocean to the east of Zanzibar (lat. 9° 37′ S., long. 61° 33′ W.) is covered with pure Radiolarian ooze (see note B). Also since the Tertiary rocks of the Nicobar Islands are for the most part of the same composition, and since a great abundance of Radiolaria has been shown to be present both in the east part of the ocean, between the Cocos Islands and the Sunda Archipelago (see note C), and in the northern part or Arabian Sea between Socotra and Ceylon (see note D); it may be assumed with great probability that the greater part of the basin of the Indian Ocean, like that of the Pacific, is covered either with Radiolarian ooze or with the characteristic red clay. With this agrees the richness of the surface of the Indian Ocean in Radiolaria of the most various groups, which has been more extensively demonstrated.

A. The Radiolarian fauna collected by the Challenger on the voyage from the Cape to Melbourne, shows in part, namely, from Station 156 to Station 158, very peculiar and characteristic composition; in particular, the Diatom ooze of Station 157 passes over in great part into a Radiolarian ooze, mainly composed of Sphærellaria. This is worthy of a more thorough investigation than I was able, owing to lack of material and time, to give it.

B. The remarkably pure Radiolarian ooze of Zanzibar, discovered by Ehrenberg in 1859, was the earliest known recent example of that deposit. It was brought up by Captain Pullen of the English man-of-war "Cyclops," from a depth of 2200 fathoms, between Zanzibar and the Seychelles, and "under a magnifying power of 300 diameters, showed at the first glance a mass of almost pure Polycystina, such as no sample of a deep-sea deposit has hitherto shown. It is very noticeable that in the whole of this mass of living forms, no calcareous shells are to be seen" (Ehrenberg, L. N. 24, pp. 148, 149).

C. For the most important material from the Indian Ocean, I am indebted to Captain Heinrich Rabbe of Bremen, who during many voyages in the Indian Ocean, in his ship "Joseph Haydn," made numerous collections in different localities with the tow-net and the trawl, and admirably preserved the rich collections thus made. The greatest abundance of Radiolaria was found in those {cli}obtained to the east of Madagascar, and next in those from the neighbourhood of the Cocos Islands. I take this opportunity of expressing my thanks to Captain Rabbe for the liberality with which he placed all this valuable material at my disposal.

D. On my voyage from Aden to Bombay, and thence to Ceylon (1881), and especially on my return journey from Ceylon, between the Maldive Islands and Socotra (1882), I carried on a number of experiments with a surface net, which yielded a rich fauna of pelagic animals, and among them many new species of Radiolaria, for observation. On several nights when the smooth surface of the Indian Ocean, unrippled by any wind, shone with the most lovely phosphorescent light, I drew up water from the surface with a bucket, and obtained a rich booty. A number of other new species of Radiolaria from very various parts of the Indian Ocean I obtained from the alimentary canal of pelagic animals, such as Medusæ, Salpæ, Crustacea, &c. Although the total number of Radiolaria known to me from the Indian Ocean is much less than from the Atlantic and Pacific, there are several new genera and numerous species among them, which show that a careful study of this fauna will be of wide interest.

231. Fauna of the Atlantic Ocean.—The Atlantic Ocean in all parts, of which the pelagic fauna has been examined, has shown the same constant presence of Radiolaria, and in certain parts of its abyssal deposits a larger or smaller quantity of different types belonging to this class; on the whole, however, its Radiolarian fauna is inferior to that of the Pacific, and probably also to that of the Indian Ocean, both in quantity and quality. Pure Radiolarian ooze, such as is so extensively found on the floor of the Pacific, and in certain places in that of the Indian Ocean, has not yet been found in the Atlantic (see § 237). The red clay, too, of the deep Atlantic does not seem to be so rich in Radiolaria as that of the Pacific; nevertheless, the number of species peculiar to the Atlantic is very large, and at certain points the abundance of species as well as of individuals seems to be scarcely less than in the Pacific. This is especially true of the eastern equatorial zone not far from Sierra Leone, Stations 347 to 352 (see note A); also of the South Atlantic between Buenos Ayres and Tristan da Cunha, Stations 324, 325, 331 to 333 (see note B); and, lastly, in the North Atlantic in the Gulf Stream and near the Canary Islands (see note C). The fauna of the latter agrees for the most part with that of the Mediterranean (see note D). In addition to the material collected by the Challenger, other deep-sea investigations have furnished bottom-deposits from different parts of the ocean, which have proved very rich in Radiolaria (see note E). Furthermore, since the island of Barbados consists for the most part of fossil Radiolarian ooze, it is very probable that at certain parts of the tropical Atlantic true Radiolarian ooze, like that of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, will eventually be found in depths between 2000 and 3000 fathoms, perhaps over a considerable area.

A. The tropical zone of the eastern Atlantic seems to be especially rich in peculiar Radiolaria of different species. This is shown by numerous preparations from the surface, and from various depths (between lat. 3° S. and 11° N., and long. 14° W. to 18° W.), which were made towards the {clii}end of the cruise. Unfortunately no bottom-deposits were obtained from the most important stations (except Nos. 346 and 347, depths 2350 and 2250 fathoms) in this region; at these the deposit was a Globigerina ooze containing numerous different species of Radiolaria.

B. In the South Atlantic, between Buenos Ayres and Tristan da Cunha (between lat. 35° S. and 43° S., long. 8° W. and 57° W.) there appears to be a long stretch covered partly with Globigerina ooze (Stations 331 to 334), or red clay (Stations 329, 330), partly with blue mud (Stations 318 to 328), which contains not only large masses of individuals but numerous peculiar species of Spumellaria and Nassellaria. The preparations from the surface-takings of this region are also rich in these, as well as in peculiar Phæodaria.

C. The northern part of the Atlantic appears on the whole to be inferior to the tropical and southern portions as regards its richness in Radiolaria, and from the western half more especially, only few species are known. From my researches at Lanzerote in 1866-67, it appears that the pelagic fauna of the Canary Islands is very rich in them, as is also the Gulf Stream in the neighbourhood of the Færöe Channel, according to the investigations of John Murray (see his Report on the "Knight-Errant" Expedition, Proc. Roy. Soc. Edin., vol. xi., 1882).

D. The Radiolaria of the Mediterranean are of special interest, because almost all our knowledge of these organisms in the living conditions and of their vital functions has been derived from investigations conducted on its shores. Johannes Müller laid the foundation of this knowledge by his investigations at Messina, and on the Ligurian and French coasts at Nice, Cette, and St. Tropez (L. N. 10). The many new Radiolaria which I described in my Monograph (L. N. 16, 1862), were for the most part taken at Messina, the place which possesses a richer pelagic fauna than any other, so far as is yet known, in the Mediterranean. Other new species I found afterwards at Villafranca near Nice, in 1864 (L. N. 19), at Portofino near Genoa (1880), at Corfu (1877), and at other points on the coast. In Messina also, Richard Hertwig collected the material for his valuable treatise on the Organisation of the Radiolaria (L. N. 33), after he had previously made investigations into their histology at Ajaccio in Corsica (L. N. 26). Lastly, at Naples, Cienkowski (L. N. 22) and Karl Brandt (L. N. 38, 39, 52) carried out their important investigations into the reproduction and symbiosis of the Radiolaria. With respect to the character of its Radiolaria, the Mediterranean fauna is to be regarded as a special province of the North Atlantic.

E. Among the smaller contributions which have been made towards our knowledge of the Atlantic Radiolarian fauna, the communications of Ehrenberg on the deposits obtained in sounding for the Atlantic cable, and on the Mexican Gulf Stream near Florida, deserve special mention (L. N. 24, pp. 138, 139-145).

232. Vertical Distribution.—The most important general result of the discoveries of the Challenger, as regards the vertical or bathymetrical distribution of the Radiolaria, is the interesting fact that numerous species of this class are found living at the most various depths of the sea, and that certain species are limited to particular bathymetrical zones, i.e., are adapted to the conditions which obtain there. In this respect three different Radiolarian faunas may be distinguished, which may be shortly termed "pelagic," "zonarial," and "abyssal." The pelagic Radiolaria swim at the surface, and when they sink (e.g., in a stormy sea), only descend to a small depth, probably not more than from {cliii}20 to 30 fathoms (§ 233). The complicated conditions of existence created by the keen struggle for existence at the surface of the sea, give rise to the formation of very numerous pelagic species, especially of Porulosa (Spumellaria and Acantharia). The abyssal Radiolaria are very different from those just mentioned; they live at the bottom of the deep-sea, not resting upon nor attached to it, but probably floating at a little distance above it, and are adapted to the conditions of existence which obtain there (§ 235). Here the Osculosa (Nassellaria and Phæodaria) seem to predominate. The zonarial Radiolaria live floating at various depths between the pelagic and abyssal species (§ 234). In their morphological characters they gradually approach the pelagic forms upwards and the abyssal downwards.

The views which have hitherto been held regarding the bathymetrical or vertical distribution of the Radiolaria have been entirely altered by the magnificent discoveries of the Challenger, and especially by the important observations of Sir Wyville Thomson (L. N. 31) and John Murray (L. N. 27). These two distinguished deep-sea explorers have, as a result of their wide experience, been convinced that Radiolaria exist at all depths of the ocean, and that there are large numbers of true deep-sea species which are never found at the surface of the sea nor at slight depths (L. N. 31, vol. i. pp. 236-238; L. N. 27, pp. 523, 525). The result of my ten years' work upon the Challenger Radiolaria, and the comparative study of more than a thousand mountings from all depths, has only been to confirm this opinion, and I am further persuaded that it will some day be possible by the aid of suitable nets (not yet invented) to distinguish different faunistic zones in the various depths of the sea. In this connection may be mentioned the specially interesting fact that the species of Radiolaria of one and the same family present in the different depths characteristic morphological distinctions, which obviously correspond to their different physiological relations in the struggle for existence. Owing to those extensive discoveries, the representation which I gave in my Monograph (1862, L. N. 16, pp. 172-196) of the vertical distribution of the Radiolaria, and of their life in the greatest depths of the sea, has been entirely changed. Compare also Bütschli (L. N. 41, p. 466).

233. The Pelagic Fauna.—The surface of the open ocean seems everywhere, at a certain distance from the coast at least, to be peopled by crowds of living Radiolaria. In the tropical zone these pelagic crowds consist of many different species, whilst in the frigid zones, on the other hand, they are made up of many individuals belonging to but few species. Most of these inhabitants of the surface may be regarded as truly pelagic species, which either remain always at the surface or descend only very slightly below it. Probably most Porulosa (both Spumellaria and Acantharia) belong to this group; whilst but few Osculosa occur in it, and fewer Phæodaria than Nassellaria. In general the pelagic Radiolaria are distinguished from the abyssal by the more delicate and slender structure of their skeletons; the pores of the lattice-shells are larger, the intervening trabeculæ thinner; the armature of spines, spathillæ, anchors, &c., is more various and more highly developed. Numerous forms are to be found among the pelagic {cliv}Radiolaria which have either an incomplete skeleton or none at all. When the pelagic forms leave the surface on account of unfavourable weather, they appear only to sink to slight depths (probably not below 20 or 30 fathoms). Within the limits of the same family the size of the pelagic species seems to be on an average greater than that of the related abyssal forms.

234. The Zonarial Fauna.—Between the pelagic fauna living at the surface of the open sea and the abyssal, which floats immediately over the bottom, there appears to be usually a middle fauna, which inhabits the different bathymetrical zones of the intermediate water, and hence may be shortly called the "zonarial" fauna. The different species of Radiolaria which inhabit these different strata in the same vertical column of water present differences corresponding to those of the plants composing the several zones of vegetation, which succeed each other at different heights on a mountain; they correspond to the different conditions of existence which are presented by the different strata of water, and to which they have become adapted in the struggle for existence. The existence of such bathymetrical zones has been shown by those important, if not numerous, observations of the Challenger, in which the tow-net was used at different depths at one and the same Station. In several cases the character of the Radiolarian fauna at different depths presented characteristic differences.

For the present, and until we are better acquainted with the characters of the Radiolarian fauna at different depths, we may distinguish provisionally the following five bathymetrical zones:—(1) The pelagic zone, extending from the surface to a depth of about 25 fathoms; (2) the pellucid zone, extending from 25 to 150 fathoms, or as far as the influence of the sunlight makes itself felt; (3) the obscure zone, extending from 150 to 2000 fathoms, or from the depth at which sunlight disappears to that at which the influence of the water containing carbonic acid begins and the calcareous organisms vanish; (4) the siliceous zone, extending from 2000 or 2500 to about 3000 fathoms, in which only siliceous not calcareous Rhizopoda are found, and in which the peculiar conditions of the lowest regions have not yet appeared; (5) the abyssal zone, in which the accumulation of the oceanic deposits, and the influence of the bottom currents, create new conditions of existence. So far as our isolated and incomplete observations of the zonarial Radiolarian fauna extend, it appears that the subclass Porulosa (Spumellaria and Acantharia) predominates in the two upper zones, and as the depth increases is gradually replaced by the subclass Osculosa (Nassellaria and Phæodaria), so that the latter predominates in the two lowest zones. The obscure zone which lies in the middle is probably the poorest in species. In general, the morphological characters of the zonarial fauna appear to change gradually upwards into the delicate form of the pelagic and downwards into the robust constitution of the abyssal; so also the average size of the individuals (within the limits of the same family) appears to increase upwards and decrease downwards.

235. The Abyssal Fauna.—The great majority of Radiolaria which have hitherto been observed, and which are described in the systematic portion of this Report, have been obtained from the bottom of the deep-sea, and more than half of all the species have been {clv}derived from the pure Radiolarian ooze, which forms the bed of the Central Pacific at depths of from 2000 to 4000 fathoms (§ 237). Many of these abyssal forms were brought up with the malacoma uninjured, and they show, both when mounted immediately in balsam, and when preserved in alcohol, all the soft parts almost as clearly as fresh preparations of pelagic Radiolaria. These species are to be regarded as truly abyssal, i.e., as forms which live floating only a little distance above the bottom of the deep-sea, having become adapted to the peculiar conditions of life which obtain in the lowest regions of the ocean. Probably the majority of the Phæodaria belong to these abyssal Radiolaria, as well as a large number of Nassellaria, but on the other hand, only a small number of Acantharia and Spumellaria are found there. A character common to these abyssal forms, and rarely found in those from the surface or from slight depths, is found in their small size and their heavy massive skeletons, in which they strikingly resemble the fossil Radiolaria of Barbados and the Nicobar Islands. The lattice-work of the shell is coarser, its trabeculæ thicker and its pores smaller than in pelagic species of the same group; also the apophyses (spines, spathillæ, coronets, &c.), are much less developed than in the latter. From these true abyssal Radiolaria must be carefully distinguished those species whose empty skeletons, devoid of all soft parts, occur also in the Radiolarian ooze of the deep-sea, but are clearly only the sunken remains of dead forms, which have lived at the surface or in some of the upper zones.

236. Deposits containing Radiolaria.—The richest collection of Radiolaria is found in the deposits of ooze which form the bed of the ocean. Although the pelagic material skimmed from the surface of the sea, and the zonarial material taken by sinking the tow-net to various depths, are always more or less rich in Radiolaria, still the number of species thus obtained is, on the whole, much less than has hitherto been got merely from deep-sea deposits. Of course the skeletons found in the mud of the ocean-bed, may belong either to the abyssal species which live there (§ 235), or to the zonarial (§ 234), or to the pelagic species (§ 233), for the siliceous skeletons of these latter sink to the bottom after their death. Almost all these remains found in the deposits belong to the siliceous "Polycystina" (Spumellaria and Nassellaria); Phæodaria occur but sparingly, and Acantharia are entirely wanting, for their acanthin skeleton readily dissolves. The abundance of Radiolaria varies greatly according to the composition and origin of the deposits. In general marine deposits may be divided into two main divisions, terrigenous and abyssal, or, more shortly, muds and oozes. The terrigenous deposits (or muds) include all those sediments which are made up for the most part of materials worn away from the coasts of continents and islands, or brought down into the sea by rivers. Their greatest extent from the coast is about 200 nautical miles. They contain varying quantities of Radiolaria, but much fewer than those of the next group. The abyssal deposits (or oozes) usually commence at a distance of from 100 to 200 nautical miles {clvi}from the coast. In general they are characterised by great uniformity, corresponding to the constancy of the conditions under which they are laid down; they may be divided into three categories, the true Radiolarian ooze (§ 237), Globigerina ooze (§ 238), and red clay (§ 239). Of these three most important deep-sea formations the first is by far the richest in Radiolaria, although the other two contain often very many siliceous shells.

The marvellous discoveries of the Challenger have thrown upon the nature of marine deposits an entirely new light, which justifies most important conclusions regarding the geographical distribution and geological significance of the Radiolaria. Since Dr. John Murray and the Abbé Renard will treat fully of these interesting relations in a forthcoming volume of the Challenger series (Report on the Deep-Sea Deposits), it will be sufficient here to refer to their preliminary publication already published (Narrative of the Cruise of H.M.S. Challenger, 1885, vol. ii. part ii. pp. 915-926); see also the earlier communications by John Murray (1876, L. N. 27, pp. 518-537), and by Sir Wyville Thomson (The Atlantic, L. N. 31, vol. i. pp. 206-246). In the Narrative (loc. cit., p. 916) the following table of marine deposits is given:—

237. Radiolarian Ooze.—By Radiolarian ooze, in the strict sense of the term, are understood those oceanic deposits, the greater part of which (often more than three-quarters) is composed of the siliceous skeletons of this class. Such pure Radiolarian ooze has only been found in limited areas of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. It is most conspicuous in the Central Pacific, between lat. 12° N. and 8° S., long. 148° W. to 152° W., the depth being everywhere between 2000 and 3000 fathoms (Stations 266 to 268 and 272 to 274). In the deepest of the Challenger soundings (Station 225, 4475 fathoms) the bottom is composed of pure Radiolarian ooze, as well as at the next Station in the Western Tropical Pacific (Station 226, 2300 fathoms), the latitude varying from 12° N. to 15° N., and the longitude from 142° E. to 144° E. In the Indian Ocean also, pure Radiolarian ooze was found in the year 1859 between Zanzibar and the Seychelles, this being the first known example of it (§ 230). On the other hand, it has not yet been found in the bed of the Atlantic; but the Tertiary formations of Barbados (Antilles, § 231) like those of the Nicobar Islands (Further India), are to be regarded as pure Radiolarian {clvii}ooze in the fossil condition. Mixed Radiolarian ooze is the name given to those deposits in which the Radiolaria exceed any of the other organic constituents, although they do not make up half the total mass. To this category belong a large number of the Challenger soundings which are entered in the Station list either as red clay or Globigerina ooze. Such mixed Radiolarian ooze has been discovered (A) in the North Pacific in an elongated area of red clay extending from Station 241 to Station 245 (perhaps even from Station 238 to Station 253), that is, at least, from long. 157° E. to 175° E., between lat. 35° N. and 37° N.; (B) in the tropical Central Pacific in the Globigerina ooze of Stations 270 and 271. The ooze from the latter station, situated almost on the equator (lat. 0° 33′ S., long. 151° 34′ W.), is specially remarkable, for it has yielded more new species of Spumellaria and Nassellaria than any other Station, not excluding even the neighbouring Stations 268, 269, and 272. Probably such mixed Radiolarian ooze is very widely distributed in the depths of the ocean, as, for example, in the South Pacific (Stations 288, 289, 300, and 302), and in the Southern Ocean (Stations 156 to 159); also in the South Atlantic (Stations 324, 325, 331, 332) and in the tropical Atlantic (Stations 348 to 352). When carefully purified and decalcified by acids, Radiolarian ooze appears as a fine shining white powder; in the raw state it is yellowish or reddish, sometimes reddish-brown or dark brown in colour, according to the quantity of oxides of iron, manganese, &c., which it contains. Calcareous skeletons (especially the tests of pelagic Foraminifera) do not occur at all or only in very minute quantities in pure Radiolarian ooze from more than 2000 fathoms, whilst specimens of mixed ooze often contain considerable quantities of them.

Pure Radiolarian ooze was first described by Dr. John Murray as regards its peculiar nature and composition under the name "Radiolarian ooze" (1876, L. N. 27, pp. 525, 526); compare also Sir Wyville Thomson (The Atlantic, L. N. 31, vol. i. pp. 231-238), and John Murray (Narr. Chall. Exp., L. N. 53, vol. i. pt. ii. pp. 920-926, pl. N. fig. 2). The different specimens of pure Radiolarian ooze obtained by the Challenger from the Pacific, and handed to me for investigation, are from depths of from 2250 fathoms to 4475 fathoms, and may be divided according to their composition into three different groups:—I. The Radiolarian ooze of the Western Tropical Pacific, Stations 225 and 226, from depths of 4475 and 2300 fathoms (lat. 11° N. to 15° N., and long. 142° E. to 144° E.). II. The Radiolarian ooze of the northern half of the Central Pacific, Stations 265 to 269, from depths of 2550 to 2900 fathoms. III. The Radiolarian ooze of the southern half of the Central Pacific, Stations 270 to 274, from depths of 2350 to 2925 fathoms. A fourth group would be constituted by the Radiolarian ooze from the Philippines, which was brought up by Brooke in 1860 near the Marianne Islands from 3300 fathoms, and described by Ehrenberg (Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1860, p. 765). The Diatom ooze, too, found by the Challenger in the Antarctic regions (Stations 152 to 157) is in some parts so rich in Radiolaria that it passes over into true Radiolarian ooze. Regarding the Radiolarian ooze from Zanzibar, obtained by Captain Pullen in 1859 from 2200 fathoms (§ 230), we have only the incomplete communications of Ehrenberg (L. N. 24, p. 147). A more accurate knowledge of these deposits from the Indian Ocean, and of {clviii}those which we may with probability expect from the tropical eastern Atlantic, will be sure to increase very widely our knowledge of the class.

238. Globigerina Ooze.—Next to the Radiolarian ooze proper the Globigerina ooze is the deposit which is richest in the remains of Radiolaria. Often these are so abundant that it is doubtful to which category the specimen should be referred (e.g., Stations 270 and 271, see § 237). In fact, the two pass without any sharp boundary into each other, and both present transitions to the Diatom ooze. Next to red clay (§ 239), Globigerina ooze is the most widely distributed of all sediments, and forms a large part of the bed of the ocean at depths of 250 to 2900 fathoms (especially between 1000 and 2000 fathoms). It covers extensive areas at depths below 1800 fathoms, and in still deeper water is replaced by red clay. It is a fine-grained white, grey, or yellowish powder, which sometimes becomes coloured rose, red, or brown owing to the admixture of oxides of iron and manganese. True Globigerina ooze consists for the most part of the accumulated calcareous shells of pelagic Foraminifera, principally Globigerina and Orbulina, but also Hastigerina, Pulvinulina, &c. It contains usually from 50 to 80 per cent. of calcium carbonate, the extreme values being 40 and 95 per cent. After this has been removed by acids, there remains a residue, which consists partly of the siliceous shells of Radiolaria and Diatoms, and partly of mineral particles identical with the volcanic elements of the red clay.

Regarding the composition and significance of the Globigerina ooze, see John Murray (L. N. 27, pp. 523-525, and L. N. 53, vol. i. p. 919). Recently this author has separated from the Globigerina ooze (sensu stricto), the Pteropod ooze, distinguished from the former by the greater abundance of Pteropod shells and calcareous shells of larger pelagic organisms which it contains. It is found in moderate depths (at most 1500 fathoms), and contains fewer Radiolaria.

239. Red Clay.—This is quantitatively the most important of all deep-sea deposits, covering by far the greatest extent of the three great ocean basins at depths greater than 2200 fathoms. It thus far surpasses in area the other deposits, both Radiolaria and Globigerina oozes, and commonly forms a still deeper layer beneath them. Probably these three deep-sea deposits together cover about three-eighths of the whole surface of the earth, that is, about as much as all the continents together, whilst only two-eighths are covered by the terrigenous deposits. Red clay is principally composed of silicate of alumina, mixed in various proportions with other finely granular substances; its usual red colour, which sometimes passes over into grey or brown, is more especially due to admixture of oxides of iron and manganese. Calcareous matter is usually entirely wanting, or present only in traces, whilst free silica is found in very variable, often considerable quantities. The chief mass of the red clay consists of volcanic ashes, pumice, fragments of lava, &c., whilst a large part of it is generally composed of shells of Radiolaria or fragments of {clix}them; in many places the number of well-preserved skeletons contained in the red clay is very considerable, so that it passes over gradually into the Radiolarian ooze (e.g., in the North Pacific, Stations 238 to 253, see § 237). Hence it may be supposed that a large part of the red clay consists of decomposed Radiolarian ooze.

The characteristic composition and fundamental significance of the red clay in the formation of the deep-sea bed were first made known by the discoveries of the Challenger (compare John Murray, 1876, L. N. 27, p. 527, and Narr. Chall. Exp., L. N. 53, vol. i. pt. ii. pp. 920-926, pl. N; also Wyville Thomson, The Atlantic, L. N. 31, vol. i. pp. 226-229). The mineral components of the red clay are for the most part of volcanic origin, due to the decomposition of pumice, lava, &c. Among the organic remains found in it, the siliceous skeletons of Radiolaria are by far the most important, and their number is often considerable. A large portion of the red clay appears to me to consist of broken down Radiolarian shells, in which a peculiar metamorphism probably has taken place. Sir Wyville Thomson was of opinion that a considerable proportion of it consisted of the remains of Globigerina ooze, the calcareous constituents of which had been removed by the carbon dioxide in the deep-sea water (L. N. 31, loc. cit.). Among these remains, however, the siliceous skeletons of the Radiolaria play a significant and often the most important part. Furthermore, John Murray has called attention to the fact that in many deep-sea deposits yellow and red insoluble particles remain, which unmistakably present the form of Radiolarian shells (L. N. 27, p. 513). At Station 303 he found "amorphous clayey matter, rounded yellow minerals, many Radiolaria-shaped;" at Station 302 there was sediment "consisting almost entirely of small rounded red mineral particles; many of these had the form of both Foraminifera and Radiolaria; and it seemed as if some substance had been deposited in and on these organisms." Similar transitions from well-preserved Radiolarian shells into amorphous mineral particles I have found in several other specimens of Challenger soundings, and consider them a further argument for the supposition that the Radiolaria often take an important share in the formation of the red clay.

240. List of Stations at which Radiolaria were observed on the Challenger Expedition.—The 168 Stations recorded below, in soundings or surface preparations from which I found Radiolaria, belong to the most various parts of the sea which the Challenger traversed during her voyage round the world; they constitute about half of the (364) observing Stations contained in the official list published in the Narrative of the Cruise (Narr. Chall. Exp., vol. i. part ii. Appendix ii.).

In addition to the particulars given in the list regarding the geographical position of the Station, depth, temperature, and composition of the bottom deposit, I have added the result of my investigations as regards the relative abundance of the Radiolaria in each. The five letters (A to E) denote the following degrees of frequency:—A, abundant Radiolaria (AI, pure Radiolarian ooze; AII, mixed Radiolarian ooze); B, very numerous Radiolaria (but not a predominating quantity); C, many Radiolaria (medium quantity); D, few Radiolaria; E, very few Radiolaria (as they occur almost always). In using these symbols regard has been had to abundance of the abyssal as well as of the zonarial and pelagic forms (§ 232); sometimes also the estimated number of Radiolaria has been inserted, based upon information given by John Murray in his Preliminary Report (L. N. 27), and in the Narrative of the Cruise (L. N. 53), as well as by Henry B. Brady in his Report on the {clx}Foraminifera (Zool. Chall. Exp., part xxii., 1884). From Stations 348 to 352 in the Eastern Tropical Atlantic no specimens of the bottom were obtained, but a rich pelagic Radiolarian fauna was demonstrated by numerous preparations from the surface. The depths are given in fathoms and the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit. In the column describing the nature of the bottom the following abbreviations are used:—

CHAPTER X.—GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION.

	Locality 1.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
						1873.
001.	N. Atl.	1890	36.8	gl. oz.	D few	Feb.	15	27°	24′ N.,	16°	55′ W.	S. of Tenerife.
002.	N. "	1945	36.8	gl. oz.	E very few	F"	17	25°	52′ N.,	19°	22′ W.	S.W. of the Canary Islands.
005.	N. "	2740	37.0	r. cl.	D few	F"	21	24°	20′ N.,	24°	28′ W.	S.W. of the Canary Islands.
009.	N. "	3150	36.8	r. cl.	E very few	F"	26	23°	23′ N.,	35°	11′ W.	(Ocean).
024.	Tr. Atl.	390	...	pt. oz.	D few	Mar.	25	18°	38′ N.,	65°	5′ W.	Culebra (Antilles).

032.	N. Atl.	2250	36.7	gl. oz.	E very few	April	3	31°	49′ N.,	64°	55′ W.	Bermuda.
045.	N. "	1240	37.2	bl. m.	E very"	May	3	38°	34′ N.,	72°	10′ W.	S. of New York.
050.	N. "	1250	38.0	bl. m.	E very"	F"	21	42°	8′ N.,	63°	39′ W.	S. of Halifax.
064.	N. "	2700	...	r. cl.	D few	June	20	35°	35′ N.,	50°	27′ W.	(Ocean).
076.	N. "	900	40.0	pt. oz.	D f"	July	3	38°	11′ N.,	27°	9′ W.	Azores.

098.	Tr. Atl.	1750	36.7	gl. oz.	C many	Aug.	14	9°	21′ N.,	18°	28′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
106.	Tr. "	1850	36.6	gl. oz.	C m"	F"	25	1°	47′ N.,	24°	26′ W.	(Ocean).
108.	Tr. "	1900	36.8	gl. oz.	C m"	F"	27	1°	10′ N.,	28°	23′ W.	(Ocean).
111.	Tr. "	2475	33.7	gl. oz.	C m"	F"	31	1°	45′ S.,	30°	58′ W.	(Ocean).
120.	Tr. "	675	...	r. m.	D few	Sept.	9	8°	37′ S.,	34°	28′ W.	Pernambuco.

132.	S. Atl.	2050	35.0	gl. oz.	C many	Oct.	10	35°	25′ S.,	23°	40′ W.	Tristan da Cunha.
134.	S. "	2025	36.0	gl. oz.	C m"	F"	14	36°	12′ S.,	12°	16′ W.	Tristan da Cunha.
137.	S. "	2550	34.5	r. cl.	D few	F"	23	35°	59′ S.,	1°	34′ E.	(Ocean).
138.	S. "	2650	35.1	r. cl.	D f"	F"	25	36°	22′ S.,	8°	12′ E.	(Ocean).
143.	S. Ind.	1900	35.6	gl. oz.	E very few	Dec.	19	36°	48′ S.,	19°	24′ E.	Cape of Good Hope.

144.	S. "	1570	35.8	gl. oz.	E very"	F"	24	45°	57′ S.,	34°	39′ E.	(Ocean).
145.	S. "	140	...	volc. s.	D few	F"	27	46°	43′ S.,	38°	4′ E.	Prince Edward Island.
146.	S. "	1375	35.6	gl. oz.	C many	F"	29	46°	46′ S.,	45°	31′ E.	(Ocean).
147.	S. "	1600	34.2	di. oz.	C m"	F"	30	46°	16′ S.,	48°	27′ E.	W. of the Crozet Islands.
						1874.
148.	S. "	210	...	gravel, shells	D few	Jan.	3	46°	47′ S.,	51°	37′ E.	E. of the Crozet Islands.

149H.	S. "	127	...	volc. m.	D f"	F"	29	48°	45′ S.,	69°	14′ E.	Kerguelen Island.
150.	S. "	150	35.2	gravel	D f"	Feb.	2	52°	4′ S.,	71°	22′ E.	N. of Heard Island.
151.	S. "	75	...	volc. m.	D f"	F"	7	52°	59′ S.,	73°	33′ E.	Heard Island.
152.	S. "	1260	...	di. oz.	C many	F"	11	60°	52′ S.,	80°	20′ E.	(Ocean).
153.	S. "	1675	...	bl. m.	C m"	F"	14	65°	42′ S.,	79°	49′ E.	Antarctic Ice.

154.	S. "	1800	...	bl. m.	C m"	F"	19	64°	37′ S.,	85°	49′ E.	Antarctic Ice.
155.	S. "	1300	...	bl. m.	C m"	F"	23	64°	18′ S.,	94°	47′ E.	Antarctic Ice.
156.	S. "	1975	...	di. oz.	B numerous	F"	26	62°	26′ S.,	95°	44′ E.	(Ocean).
157.	S. "	1950	32.1	di. oz.	B num"	Mar.	3	53°	55′ S.,	108°	35′ E.	(Ocean).
158.	S. "	1800	33.5	gl. oz.	B num"	F"	7	50°	1′ S.,	123°	4′ E.	(Ocean).

159.	S. "	2150	34.5	gl. oz.	B num"	F"	10	47°	25′ S.,	130°	22′ E.	(Ocean).
160.	S. "	2600	33.9	r. cl.	C many	F"	13	42°	42′ S.,	134°	10′ E.	(Ocean).
162.	S. "	38	...	sand	E very few	April	2	39°	10′ S.,	146°	37′ E.	Bass Strait.
163.	S. Pac.	2200	34.5	gr. m.	E very"	F"	4	36°	57′ S.,	150°	34′ E.	Port Jackson.
164A.	S. "	1200	...	gr. m.	E very"	June	13	34°	9′ S.,	151°	55′ E.	W. of Sydney.

	Locality 2.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.

001.	N. Atl.	1890	36.8	gl. oz.	D few
002.	N. "	1945	36.8	gl. oz.	E very few
005.	N. "	2740	37.0	r. cl.	D few
009.	N. "	3150	36.8	r. cl.	E very few
024.	Tr. Atl.	390	...	pt. oz.	D few

032.	N. Atl.	2250	36.7	gl. oz.	E very few
045.	N. "	1240	37.2	bl. m.	E very"
050.	N. "	1250	38.0	bl. m.	E very"
064.	N. "	2700	...	r. cl.	D few
076.	N. "	900	40.0	pt. oz.	D f"

098.	Tr. Atl.	1750	36.7	gl. oz.	C many
106.	Tr. "	1850	36.6	gl. oz.	C m"
108.	Tr. "	1900	36.8	gl. oz.	C m"
111.	Tr. "	2475	33.7	gl. oz.	C m"
120.	Tr. "	675	...	r. m.	D few

132.	S. Atl.	2050	35.0	gl. oz.	C many
134.	S. "	2025	36.0	gl. oz.	C m"
137.	S. "	2550	34.5	r. cl.	D few
138.	S. "	2650	35.1	r. cl.	D f"
143.	S. Ind.	1900	35.6	gl. oz.	E very few

144.	S. "	1570	35.8	gl. oz.	E very"
145.	S. "	140	...	volc. s.	D few
146.	S. "	1375	35.6	gl. oz.	C many
147.	S. "	1600	34.2	di. oz.	C m"

148.	S. "	210	...	gravel, shells	D few

149H.	S. "	127	...	volc. m.	D f"
150.	S. "	150	35.2	gravel	D f"
151.	S. "	75	...	volc. m.	D f"
152.	S. "	1260	...	di. oz.	C many
153.	S. "	1675	...	bl. m.	C m"

154.	S. "	1800	...	bl. m.	C m"
155.	S. "	1300	...	bl. m.	C m"
156.	S. "	1975	...	di. oz.	B numerous
157.	S. "	1950	32.1	di. oz.	B num"
158.	S. "	1800	33.5	gl. oz.	B num"

159.	S. "	2150	34.5	gl. oz.	B num"
160.	S. "	2600	33.9	r. cl.	C many
162.	S. "	38	...	sand	E very few
163.	S. Pac.	2200	34.5	gr. m.	E very"
164A.	S. "	1200	...	gr. m.	E very"

	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
	1873.
001.	Feb.	15	27°	24′ N.,	16°	55′ W.	S. of Tenerife.
002.	F"	17	25°	52′ N.,	19°	22′ W.	S.W. of the Canary Islands.
005.	F"	21	24°	20′ N.,	24°	28′ W.	S.W. of the Canary Islands.
009.	F"	26	23°	23′ N.,	35°	11′ W.	(Ocean).
024.	Mar.	25	18°	38′ N.,	65°	5′ W.	Culebra (Antilles).

032.	April	3	31°	49′ N.,	64°	55′ W.	Bermuda.
045.	May	3	38°	34′ N.,	72°	10′ W.	S. of New York.
050.	F"	21	42°	8′ N.,	63°	39′ W.	S. of Halifax.
064.	June	20	35°	35′ N.,	50°	27′ W.	(Ocean).
076.	July	3	38°	11′ N.,	27°	9′ W.	Azores.

098.	Aug.	14	9°	21′ N.,	18°	28′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
106.	F"	25	1°	47′ N.,	24°	26′ W.	(Ocean).
108.	F"	27	1°	10′ N.,	28°	23′ W.	(Ocean).
111.	F"	31	1°	45′ S.,	30°	58′ W.	(Ocean).
120.	Sept.	9	8°	37′ S.,	34°	28′ W.	Pernambuco.

132.	Oct.	10	35°	25′ S.,	23°	40′ W.	Tristan da Cunha.
134.	F"	14	36°	12′ S.,	12°	16′ W.	Tristan da Cunha.
137.	F"	23	35°	59′ S.,	1°	34′ E.	(Ocean).
138.	F"	25	36°	22′ S.,	8°	12′ E.	(Ocean).
143.	Dec.	19	36°	48′ S.,	19°	24′ E.	Cape of Good Hope.

144.	F"	24	45°	57′ S.,	34°	39′ E.	(Ocean).
145.	F"	27	46°	43′ S.,	38°	4′ E.	Prince Edward Island.
146.	F"	29	46°	46′ S.,	45°	31′ E.	(Ocean).
147.	F"	30	46°	16′ S.,	48°	27′ E.	W. of the Crozet Islands.
	1874.
148.	Jan.	3	46°	47′ S.,	51°	37′ E.	E. of the Crozet Islands.

149H.	F"	29	48°	45′ S.,	69°	14′ E.	Kerguelen Island.
150.	Feb.	2	52°	4′ S.,	71°	22′ E.	N. of Heard Island.
151.	F"	7	52°	59′ S.,	73°	33′ E.	Heard Island.
152.	F"	11	60°	52′ S.,	80°	20′ E.	(Ocean).
153.	F"	14	65°	42′ S.,	79°	49′ E.	Antarctic Ice.

154.	F"	19	64°	37′ S.,	85°	49′ E.	Antarctic Ice.
155.	F"	23	64°	18′ S.,	94°	47′ E.	Antarctic Ice.
156.	F"	26	62°	26′ S.,	95°	44′ E.	(Ocean).
157.	Mar.	3	53°	55′ S.,	108°	35′ E.	(Ocean).
158.	F"	7	50°	1′ S.,	123°	4′ E.	(Ocean).

159.	F"	10	47°	25′ S.,	130°	22′ E.	(Ocean).
160.	F"	13	42°	42′ S.,	134°	10′ E.	(Ocean).
162.	April	2	39°	10′ S.,	146°	37′ E.	Bass Strait.
163.	F"	4	36°	57′ S.,	150°	34′ E.	Port Jackson.
164A.	June	13	34°	9′ S.,	151°	55′ E.	W. of Sydney.

	Locality 1.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
						1874.
165.	S. Pac.	2600	34.5	r. cl.	D few	June	17	34°	50′ S.,	155°	28′ E.	(Ocean).
166.	S. "	275	50.8	gl. oz.	D f"	F"	23	38°	50′ S.,	169°	20′ E.	W. of New Zealand.
169.	S. "	700	40.0	bl. m.	D f"	July	10	37°	34′ S.,	179°	22′ E.	E. of New Zealand.
175.	Tr. Pac.	1350	36.0	gl. oz.	E very few	Aug.	12	19°	2′ S.,	177°	10′ E.	Fiji Islands.
181.	Tr. "	2440	35.8	r. cl.	E very"	F"	25	13°	50′ S.,	151°	49′ E.	Louisiades.

193.	Tr. "	2800	38.0	bl. m.	D few	Sept.	28	5°	24′ S.,	130°	37′ E.	Banda Sea.
195.	Tr. "	1425	38.0	bl. m.	C many	Oct.	3	4°	21′ S.,	129°	7′ E.	Banda Sea.
197.	Tr. "	1200	35.9	bl. m.	D few	F"	14	0°	41′ N.,	126°	37′ E.	E. of Celebes.
198.	Tr. "	2150	38.9	bl. m.	C many	F"	20	2°	55′ N.,	124°	58′ E.	N. of Celebes.
200.	Tr. "	250	...	gr. m.	B numerous	F"	23	6°	47′ N.,	122°	28′ E.	W. of Mindanao.

201.	Tr. "	82	...	st. & gra.	C many	F"	26	7°	3′ N.,	121°	48′ E.	W. of Mindanao.
202.	Tr. "	2550	50.5	bl. m.	B numerous	F"	27	8°	32′ N.,	121°	55′ E.	W. of Mindanao.
205.	Tr. "	1050	37.0	bl. m.	C many	Nov.	13	16°	42′ N.,	119°	22′ E.	W. of Luzon.
						1875.
206.	Tr. "	2100	36.5	bl. m.	B numerous	Jan.	8	17°	54′ N.,	117°	14′ E.	W. of Luzon.
211.	Tr. "	2225	50.5	bl. m.	B num"	F"	28	8°	0′ N.,	121°	42′ E.	W. of Mindanao.

213.	Tr. "	2050	38.8	bl. m.	C many	Feb.	8	5°	47′ N.,	124°	1′ E.	S. of Mindanao.
214.	Tr. "	500	41.8	bl. m.	C m"	F"	10	4°	33′ N.,	127°	6′ E.	N. of Gilolo.
215.	Tr. "	2550	35.4	r. cl.	C many	F"	12	4°	19′ N.,	130°	15′ E.	N. of Gilolo.
216A.	Tr. "	2000	35.4	gl. oz.	B numerous	F"	16	2°	56′ N.,	134°	11′ E.	S. of Pelew Islands.
217.	Tr. "	2000	35.2	bl. m.	C many	F"	22	0°	39′ S.,	138°	55′ E.	N. of New Guinea.

218.	Tr. "	1070	36.4	bl. m.	C m"	Mar.	1	2°	33′ S.,	144°	4′ E.	N. of New Guinea.
220.	Tr. "	1100	36.2	gl. oz.	C m"	F"	11	0°	42′ S.,	147°	0′ E.	N. of New Guinea.
221.	Tr. "	2650	35.4	r. cl.	B numerous	F"	13	0°	40′ N.,	148°	41′ E.	(Ocean).
222.	Tr. "	2450	35.2	r. cl.	B num"	F"	16	2°	15′ N.,	146°	16′ E.	(Ocean).
223.	Tr. "	2325	35.5	gl. oz.	B num"	F"	19	5°	31′ N.,	145°	13′ E.	Carolines.

224.	Tr. "	1850	35.4	gl. oz.	B num"	F"	21	7°	45′ N.,	144°	20′ E.	Carolines.
225.	Tr. "	4475	35.2	rad. oz.	A very many	F"	23	11°	24′ N.,	143°	16′ E.	Ocean	North-West Pacific, between Carolines and Japan.
226.	Tr. "	2300	35.5	rad. oz.	A very"	F"	25	14°	44′ N.,	142°	13′ E.	Ocean
230.	N. Pac.	2425	35.5	r. cl.	C many	April	5	26°	29′ N.,	137°	57′ E.	Ocean
231.	N. "	2250	35.2	bl. m.	C m"	F"	9	31°	8′ N.,	137°	8′ E.	Ocean

232.	N. "	345	41.1	gr. m.	C m"	May	12	35°	11′ N.,	139°	28′ E.	Ocean
234.	N. "	2675	35.8	bl. m.	B numerous	June	3	32°	31′ N.,	135°	39′ E.	S. of Japan.
235.	N. "	565	38.1	gr. m.	D few	F"	4	34°	7′ N.,	138°	0′ E.	S. of Japan.
236.	N. "	775	37.6	gr. m.	C many	F"	5	34°	58′ N.,	139°	29′ E.	S. of Japan.
237.	N. "	1875	35.3	bl. m.	C m"	F"	17	34°	37′ N.,	140°	32′ E.	S. of Japan.

238.	N. "	3950	35.0	r. cl.	B numerous	F"	18	35°	18′ N.,	144°	8′ E.	Ocean	North Pacific, between Japan and San Francisco (35°-38° N. lat., 144°-156° W. long.).
239.	N. "	3625	35.1	r. cl.	B num"	F"	19	35°	18′ N.,	147°	9′ E.	Ocean
240.	N. "	2900	34.9	r. cl.	B num"	F"	21	35°	20′ N.,	153°	39′ E.	Ocean
241.	N. "	2300	35.1	r. cl.	A very many	F"	23	35°	41′ N.,	157°	42′ E.	Ocean
242.	N. "	2575	35.1	r. cl.	AII ver"	F"	24	35°	29′ N.,	161°	52′ E.	Ocean

243.	N. "	2800	35.0	r. cl.	AII ver"	F"	26	35°	24′ N.,	166°	35′ E.	Ocean
244.	N. "	2900	35.3	r. cl.	AII ver"	F"	28	35°	22′ N.,	169°	53′ E.	Ocean
245.	N. "	2775	34.9	r. cl.	AII ver"	F"	30	36°	23′ N.,	174°	31′ E.	Ocean
246.	N. "	2050	35.1	gl. oz.	B numerous	July	2	36°	10′ N.,	178°	0′ E.	Ocean
247.	N. "	2530	35.2	r. cl.	C many	F"	3	35°	49′ N.,	179°	57′ W.	Ocean

248.	N. "	2900	35.1	r. cl.	C m"	F"	5	37°	41′ N.,	177°	4′ W.	Ocean
249.	N. "	3000	35.2	r. cl.	B numerous	F"	7	37°	59′ N.,	171°	48′ W.	Ocean
250.	N. "	3050	35.0	r. cl.	B num"	F"	9	37°	49′ N.,	166°	47′ W.	Ocean
251.	N. "	2950	35.1	r. cl.	B num"	F"	10	37°	37′ N.,	163°	26′ W.	Ocean
252.	N. "	2740	35.3	r. cl.	B num"	F"	12	37°	52′ N.,	160°	17′ W.	Ocean

253.	N. "	3125	35.1	r. cl.	B num"	F"	14	38°	9′ N.,	156°	25′ W.	Ocean
254.	N. "	3025	35.0	r. cl.	C many	F"	17	35°	13′ N.,	154°	43′ W.	Ocean	North Pacific (35°-23° N. lat., 154°-156° W. long.).
255.	N. "	2850	35.0	r. cl.	C m"	F"	19	32°	28′ N.,	154°	33′ W.	Ocean
256.	N. "	2950	35.2	r. cl.	B numerous	F"	21	30°	22′ N.,	154°	56′ W.	Ocean
257.	N. "	2875	34.9	r. cl.	C many	F"	23	27°	33′ N.,	154°	55′ W.	Ocean

258.	N. "	2775	35.2	r. cl.	C m"	F"	24	26°	11′ N.,	155°	12′ W.	Ocean
259.	Tr. Pac.	2225	34.9	r. cl.	C m"	F"	26	23°	3′ N.,	156°	6′ W.	Ocean

	Locality 2.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.

165.	S. Pac.	2600	34.5	r. cl.	D few
166.	S. "	275	50.8	gl. oz.	D f"
169.	S. "	700	40.0	bl. m.	D f"
175.	Tr. Pac.	1350	36.0	gl. oz.	E very few
181.	Tr. "	2440	35.8	r. cl.	E very"

193.	Tr. "	2800	38.0	bl. m.	D few
195.	Tr. "	1425	38.0	bl. m.	C many
197.	Tr. "	1200	35.9	bl. m.	D few
198.	Tr. "	2150	38.9	bl. m.	C many
200.	Tr. "	250	...	gr. m.	B numerous

201.	Tr. "	82	...	st. & gra.	C many
202.	Tr. "	2550	50.5	bl. m.	B numerous
205.	Tr. "	1050	37.0	bl. m.	C many

206.	Tr. "	2100	36.5	bl. m.	B numerous
211.	Tr. "	2225	50.5	bl. m.	B num"

213.	Tr. "	2050	38.8	bl. m.	C many
214.	Tr. "	500	41.8	bl. m.	C m"
215.	Tr. "	2550	35.4	r. cl.	C many
216A.	Tr. "	2000	35.4	gl. oz.	B numerous
217.	Tr. "	2000	35.2	bl. m.	C many

218.	Tr. "	1070	36.4	bl. m.	C m"
220.	Tr. "	1100	36.2	gl. oz.	C m"
221.	Tr. "	2650	35.4	r. cl.	B numerous
222.	Tr. "	2450	35.2	r. cl.	B num"
223.	Tr. "	2325	35.5	gl. oz.	B num"

224.	Tr. "	1850	35.4	gl. oz.	B num"
225.	Tr. "	4475	35.2	rad. oz.	A very many
226.	Tr. "	2300	35.5	rad. oz.	A very"
230.	N. Pac.	2425	35.5	r. cl.	C many
231.	N. "	2250	35.2	bl. m.	C m"

232.	N. "	345	41.1	gr. m.	C m"
234.	N. "	2675	35.8	bl. m.	B numerous
235.	N. "	565	38.1	gr. m.	D few
236.	N. "	775	37.6	gr. m.	C many
237.	N. "	1875	35.3	bl. m.	C m"

238.	N. "	3950	35.0	r. cl.	B numerous
239.	N. "	3625	35.1	r. cl.	B num"
240.	N. "	2900	34.9	r. cl.	B num"
241.	N. "	2300	35.1	r. cl.	A very many
242.	N. "	2575	35.1	r. cl.	AII ver"

243.	N. "	2800	35.0	r. cl.	AII ver"
244.	N. "	2900	35.3	r. cl.	AII ver"
245.	N. "	2775	34.9	r. cl.	AII ver"
246.	N. "	2050	35.1	gl. oz.	B numerous
247.	N. "	2530	35.2	r. cl.	C many

248.	N. "	2900	35.1	r. cl.	C m"
249.	N. "	3000	35.2	r. cl.	B numerous
250.	N. "	3050	35.0	r. cl.	B num"
251.	N. "	2950	35.1	r. cl.	B num"
252.	N. "	2740	35.3	r. cl.	B num"

253.	N. "	3125	35.1	r. cl.	B num"
254.	N. "	3025	35.0	r. cl.	C many
255.	N. "	2850	35.0	r. cl.	C m"
256.	N. "	2950	35.2	r. cl.	B numerous
257.	N. "	2875	34.9	r. cl.	C many

258.	N. "	2775	35.2	r. cl.	C m"
259.	Tr. Pac.	2225	34.9	r. cl.	C m"

	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
	1874.
165.	June	17	34°	50′ S.,	155°	28′ E.	(Ocean).
166.	F"	23	38°	50′ S.,	169°	20′ E.	W. of New Zealand.
169.	July	10	37°	34′ S.,	179°	22′ E.	E. of New Zealand.
175.	Aug.	12	19°	2′ S.,	177°	10′ E.	Fiji Islands.
181.	F"	25	13°	50′ S.,	151°	49′ E.	Louisiades.

193.	Sept.	28	5°	24′ S.,	130°	37′ E.	Banda Sea.
195.	Oct.	3	4°	21′ S.,	129°	7′ E.	Banda Sea.
197.	F"	14	0°	41′ N.,	126°	37′ E.	E. of Celebes.
198.	F"	20	2°	55′ N.,	124°	58′ E.	N. of Celebes.
200.	F"	23	6°	47′ N.,	122°	28′ E.	W. of Mindanao.

201.	F"	26	7°	3′ N.,	121°	48′ E.	W. of Mindanao.
202.	F"	27	8°	32′ N.,	121°	55′ E.	W. of Mindanao.
205.	Nov.	13	16°	42′ N.,	119°	22′ E.	W. of Luzon.
	1875.
206.	Jan.	8	17°	54′ N.,	117°	14′ E.	W. of Luzon.
211.	F"	28	8°	0′ N.,	121°	42′ E.	W. of Mindanao.

213.	Feb.	8	5°	47′ N.,	124°	1′ E.	S. of Mindanao.
214.	F"	10	4°	33′ N.,	127°	6′ E.	N. of Gilolo.
215.	F"	12	4°	19′ N.,	130°	15′ E.	N. of Gilolo.
216A.	F"	16	2°	56′ N.,	134°	11′ E.	S. of Pelew Islands.
217.	F"	22	0°	39′ S.,	138°	55′ E.	N. of New Guinea.

218.	Mar.	1	2°	33′ S.,	144°	4′ E.	N. of New Guinea.
220.	F"	11	0°	42′ S.,	147°	0′ E.	N. of New Guinea.
221.	F"	13	0°	40′ N.,	148°	41′ E.	(Ocean).
222.	F"	16	2°	15′ N.,	146°	16′ E.	(Ocean).
223.	F"	19	5°	31′ N.,	145°	13′ E.	Carolines.

224.	F"	21	7°	45′ N.,	144°	20′ E.	Carolines.
225.	F"	23	11°	24′ N.,	143°	16′ E.	Ocean	North-West Pacific, between Carolines and Japan.
226.	F"	25	14°	44′ N.,	142°	13′ E.	Ocean
230.	April	5	26°	29′ N.,	137°	57′ E.	Ocean
231.	F"	9	31°	8′ N.,	137°	8′ E.	Ocean

232.	May	12	35°	11′ N.,	139°	28′ E.	Ocean
234.	June	3	32°	31′ N.,	135°	39′ E.	S. of Japan.
235.	F"	4	34°	7′ N.,	138°	0′ E.	S. of Japan.
236.	F"	5	34°	58′ N.,	139°	29′ E.	S. of Japan.
237.	F"	17	34°	37′ N.,	140°	32′ E.	S. of Japan.

238.	F"	18	35°	18′ N.,	144°	8′ E.	Ocean	North Pacific, between Japan and San Francisco (35°-38° N. lat., 144°-156° W. long.).
239.	F"	19	35°	18′ N.,	147°	9′ E.	Ocean
240.	F"	21	35°	20′ N.,	153°	39′ E.	Ocean
241.	F"	23	35°	41′ N.,	157°	42′ E.	Ocean
242.	F"	24	35°	29′ N.,	161°	52′ E.	Ocean

243.	F"	26	35°	24′ N.,	166°	35′ E.	Ocean
244.	F"	28	35°	22′ N.,	169°	53′ E.	Ocean
245.	F"	30	36°	23′ N.,	174°	31′ E.	Ocean
246.	July	2	36°	10′ N.,	178°	0′ E.	Ocean
247.	F"	3	35°	49′ N.,	179°	57′ W.	Ocean

248.	F"	5	37°	41′ N.,	177°	4′ W.	Ocean
249.	F"	7	37°	59′ N.,	171°	48′ W.	Ocean
250.	F"	9	37°	49′ N.,	166°	47′ W.	Ocean
251.	F"	10	37°	37′ N.,	163°	26′ W.	Ocean
252.	F"	12	37°	52′ N.,	160°	17′ W.	Ocean

253.	F"	14	38°	9′ N.,	156°	25′ W.	Ocean
254.	F"	17	35°	13′ N.,	154°	43′ W.	Ocean	North Pacific (35°-23° N. lat., 154°-156° W. long.).
255.	F"	19	32°	28′ N.,	154°	33′ W.	Ocean
256.	F"	21	30°	22′ N.,	154°	56′ W.	Ocean
257.	F"	23	27°	33′ N.,	154°	55′ W.	Ocean

258.	F"	24	26°	11′ N.,	155°	12′ W.	Ocean
259.	F"	26	23°	3′ N.,	156°	6′ W.	Ocean

	Locality 1.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
						1875.
261.	Tr. Pac.	2050	35.2	volc. m.	C m"	Aug.	12	20°	18′ N.,	157°	14′ W.	Sandwich Islands.
262.	Tr. "	2875	35.2	r. cl.	C m"	F"	20	19°	12′ N.,	154°	14′ W.	Sandwich Islands.
263.	Tr. "	2650	35.1	r. cl.	B numerous	F"	21	17°	33′ N.,	153°	36′ W.	Ocean	Tropical Central Pacific, between Sandwich and Paumotu (17° N. lat. to 11° S. lat.).
264.	Tr. "	3000	35.2	r. cl.	C many	F"	23	14°	19′ N.,	152°	37′ W.	Ocean
265.	Tr. "	2900	35.0	r. cl.	A very many	F"	25	12°	42′ N.,	152°	1′ W.	Ocean

266.	Tr. "	2750	35.1	rad. oz.	A very"	F"	26	11°	7′ N.,	152°	3′ W.	Ocean
267.	Tr. "	2700	35.0	rad. oz.	A very"	F"	28	9°	28′ N.,	150°	49′ W.	Ocean
268.	Tr. "	2900	34.8	rad. oz.	A very"	F"	30	7°	35′ N.,	149°	49′ W.	Ocean
269.	Tr. "	2550	35.2	rad. oz.	A very"	Sept.	2	5°	54′ N.,	147°	2′ W.	Ocean
270.	Tr. "	2925	34.6	gl. oz.	A very"	F"	4	2°	34′ N.,	149°	9′ W.	Ocean

271.	Tr. "	2425	35.0	gl. oz.	A very"	F"	6	0°	33′ S.,	151°	34′ W.	Ocean
272.	Tr. "	2600	35.1	rad. oz.	A very"	F"	8	3°	48′ S.,	152°	56′ W.	Ocean
273.	Tr. "	2350	34.5	rad. oz.	A very"	F"	9	5°	11′ S.,	152°	56′ W.	Ocean
274.	Tr. "	2750	35.1	rad. oz.	A very"	F"	11	7°	25′ S.,	152°	15′ W.	Ocean
275.	Tr. "	2610	35.0	r. cl.	B numerous	F"	14	11°	20′ S.,	150°	30′ W.	Ocean

276.	Tr. "	2350	35.1	r. cl.	C many	F"	16	13°	28′ S.,	149°	30′ W.	Paumotu.
280.	Tr. "	1940	35.3	gl. oz.	D few	Oct.	4	18°	40′ S.,	149°	52′ W.	S. of Tahiti.
281.	Tr. "	2385	34.9	r. cl.	C many	F"	6	22°	21′ S.,	150°	17′ W.	Tubuai Islands.
282.	S. Pac.	2450	35.1	r. cl.	C m"	F"	7	23°	46′ S.,	149°	59′ W.	Tubuai Islands.
283.	Tr. "	2075	35.4	gl. oz.	D few	F"	9	26°	9′ S.,	145°	17′ W.	N. of Oparo Island.

284.	Tr. "	1985	35.1	gl. oz.	C many	F"	11	28°	22′ S.,	141°	22′ W.	S. of Oparo Island.
285.	Tr. "	2375	35.0	r. cl.	D few	F"	14	32°	36′ S.,	137°	43′ W.	Ocean	Open South Pacific Ocean, between New Zealand and Valparaiso.
286.	Tr. "	2335	34.8	r. cl.	D f"	F"	16	33°	29′ S.,	133°	22′ W.	Ocean
287.	Tr. "	2400	34.7	r. cl.	D f"	F"	19	36°	32′ S.,	132°	52′ W.	Ocean
288.	Tr. "	2600	34.8	r. cl.	B numerous	F"	21	40°	3′ S.,	132°	58′ W.	Ocean

289.	Tr. "	2550	34.8	r. cl.	B num"	F"	23	39°	41′ S.,	131°	23′ W.	Ocean
290.	Tr. "	2300	34.9	r. cl.	C many	F"	25	39°	16′ S.,	124°	7′ W.	Ocean
291.	Tr. "	2250	34.6	r. cl.	C m"	F"	27	39°	13′ S.,	118°	49′ W.	Ocean
292.	Tr. "	1600	35.2	gl. oz.	C m"	F"	29	38°	43′ S.,	112°	31′ W.	Ocean
293.	Tr. "	2025	34.4	gl. oz.	C m"	Nov.	1	39°	4′ S.,	105°	5′ W.	Ocean

294.	Tr. "	2270	34.6	r. cl.	D few	F"	3	39°	22′ S.,	98°	46′ W.	Ocean
295.	Tr. "	1500	35.3	gl. oz.	C many	F"	5	38°	7′ S.,	94°	4′ W.	Ocean
296.	Tr. "	1825	35.3	gl. oz.	D few	F"	9	38°	6′ S.,	88°	2′ W.	Ocean
297.	Tr. "	1775	35.5	gl. oz.	D f"	F"	11	37°	29′ S.,	83°	7′ W.	Ocean
298.	Tr. "	2225	35.6	bl. m.	C many	F"	17	34°	7′ S.,	73°	56′ W.	W. of Valparaiso.

299.	Tr. "	2160	35.2	bl. m.	C m"	Dec.	14	33°	31′ S.,	74°	43′ W.	W. of Valparaiso.
300.	Tr. "	1375	35.5	gl. oz.	B numerous	F"	17	33°	42′ S.,	78°	18′ W.	N. of Juan Fernandez.
302.	Tr. "	1450	35.6	gl. oz.	B num"	F"	28	42°	43′ S.,	82°	11′ W.	(Ocean).
303.	Tr. "	1325	36.0	bl. m.	D few	F"	30	45°	31′ S.,	78°	9′ W.	W. of Patagonia.
304.	Tr. "	45	...	gr. m.	E very few	F"	31	46°	53′ S.,	75°	12′ W.	W. of Patagonia.
						1876.
318.	S. Atl.	2040	33.7	bl. m.	C few	Feb.	11	42°	32′ S.,	56°	29′ W.	(Ocean).
319.	S. "	2425	32.7	bl. m.	C f"	F"	12	41°	54′ S.,	54°	48′ W.	(Ocean).
323.	S. "	1900	33.1	bl. m.	C f"	F"	28	35°	39′ S.,	50°	47′ W.	W. of Buenos Ayres.
324.	S. "	2800	32.6	bl. m.	B numerous	F"	29	36°	9′ S.,	48°	22′ W.	Ocean	Open South Atlantic Ocean, between Buenos Ayres and Tristan da Cunha (35°-37° S. lat., 21°-48° W. long.).
325.	S. "	2650	32.7	bl. m.	B num"	Mar.	2	36°	44′ S.,	46°	16′ W.	Ocean

326.	S. "	2775	32.7	bl. m.	C many	F"	3	37°	3′ S.,	44°	17′ W.	Ocean
327.	S. "	2900	32.8	bl. m.	C m"	F"	4	36°	48′ S.,	42°	45′ W.	Ocean
328.	S. "	2900	32.9	bl. m.	B numerous	F"	6	37°	38′ S.,	39°	36′ W.	Ocean
329.	S. "	2675	32.3	r. cl.	C many	F"	7	37°	31′ S.,	36°	7′ W.	Ocean
330.	S. "	2440	32.7	r. cl.	C m"	F"	8	37°	45′ S.,	33°	0′ W.	Ocean

331.	S. "	1715	35.4	gl. oz.	B numerous	F"	9	37°	47′ S.,	30°	20′ W.	Ocean
332.	S. "	2200	34.0	gl. oz.	B num"	F"	10	37°	29′ S.,	27°	31′ W.	Ocean
333.	S. "	2025	35.3	gl. oz.	B num"	F"	13	35°	36′ S.,	21°	12′ W.	Ocean
334.	S. "	1915	35.8	gl. oz.	C many	F"	14	35°	45′ S.,	18°	31′ W.	W. of Tristan da Cunha.
335.	S. "	1425	37.0	pt. oz.	D few	F"	16	32°	24′ S.,	13°	5′ W.	N. of Tristan da Cunha.

	Locality 2.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.

261.	Tr. Pac.	2050	35.2	volc. m.	C m"
262.	Tr. "	2875	35.2	r. cl.	C m"
263.	Tr. "	2650	35.1	r. cl.	B numerous
264.	Tr. "	3000	35.2	r. cl.	C many
265.	Tr. "	2900	35.0	r. cl.	A very many

266.	Tr. "	2750	35.1	rad. oz.	A very"
267.	Tr. "	2700	35.0	rad. oz.	A very"
268.	Tr. "	2900	34.8	rad. oz.	A very"
269.	Tr. "	2550	35.2	rad. oz.	A very"
270.	Tr. "	2925	34.6	gl. oz.	A very"

271.	Tr. "	2425	35.0	gl. oz.	A very"
272.	Tr. "	2600	35.1	rad. oz.	A very"
273.	Tr. "	2350	34.5	rad. oz.	A very"
274.	Tr. "	2750	35.1	rad. oz.	A very"
275.	Tr. "	2610	35.0	r. cl.	B numerous

276.	Tr. "	2350	35.1	r. cl.	C many
280.	Tr. "	1940	35.3	gl. oz.	D few
281.	Tr. "	2385	34.9	r. cl.	C many
282.	S. Pac.	2450	35.1	r. cl.	C m"
283.	Tr. "	2075	35.4	gl. oz.	D few

284.	Tr. "	1985	35.1	gl. oz.	C many
285.	Tr. "	2375	35.0	r. cl.	D few
286.	Tr. "	2335	34.8	r. cl.	D f"
287.	Tr. "	2400	34.7	r. cl.	D f"
288.	Tr. "	2600	34.8	r. cl.	B numerous

289.	Tr. "	2550	34.8	r. cl.	B num"
290.	Tr. "	2300	34.9	r. cl.	C many
291.	Tr. "	2250	34.6	r. cl.	C m"
292.	Tr. "	1600	35.2	gl. oz.	C m"
293.	Tr. "	2025	34.4	gl. oz.	C m"

294.	Tr. "	2270	34.6	r. cl.	D few
295.	Tr. "	1500	35.3	gl. oz.	C many
296.	Tr. "	1825	35.3	gl. oz.	D few
297.	Tr. "	1775	35.5	gl. oz.	D f"
298.	Tr. "	2225	35.6	bl. m.	C many

299.	Tr. "	2160	35.2	bl. m.	C m"
300.	Tr. "	1375	35.5	gl. oz.	B numerous
302.	Tr. "	1450	35.6	gl. oz.	B num"
303.	Tr. "	1325	36.0	bl. m.	D few
304.	Tr. "	45	...	gr. m.	E very few

318.	S. Atl.	2040	33.7	bl. m.	C few
319.	S. "	2425	32.7	bl. m.	C f"
323.	S. "	1900	33.1	bl. m.	C f"
324.	S. "	2800	32.6	bl. m.	B numerous
325.	S. "	2650	32.7	bl. m.	B num"

326.	S. "	2775	32.7	bl. m.	C many
327.	S. "	2900	32.8	bl. m.	C m"
328.	S. "	2900	32.9	bl. m.	B numerous
329.	S. "	2675	32.3	r. cl.	C many
330.	S. "	2440	32.7	r. cl.	C m"

331.	S. "	1715	35.4	gl. oz.	B numerous
332.	S. "	2200	34.0	gl. oz.	B num"
333.	S. "	2025	35.3	gl. oz.	B num"
334.	S. "	1915	35.8	gl. oz.	C many
335.	S. "	1425	37.0	pt. oz.	D few

	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
	1875.
261.	Aug.	12	20°	18′ N.,	157°	14′ W.	Sandwich Islands.
262.	F"	20	19°	12′ N.,	154°	14′ W.	Sandwich Islands.
263.	F"	21	17°	33′ N.,	153°	36′ W.	Ocean	Tropical Central Pacific, between Sandwich and Paumotu (17° N. lat. to 11° S. lat.).
264.	F"	23	14°	19′ N.,	152°	37′ W.	Ocean
265.	F"	25	12°	42′ N.,	152°	1′ W.	Ocean

266.	F"	26	11°	7′ N.,	152°	3′ W.	Ocean
267.	F"	28	9°	28′ N.,	150°	49′ W.	Ocean
268.	F"	30	7°	35′ N.,	149°	49′ W.	Ocean
269.	Sept.	2	5°	54′ N.,	147°	2′ W.	Ocean
270.	F"	4	2°	34′ N.,	149°	9′ W.	Ocean

271.	F"	6	0°	33′ S.,	151°	34′ W.	Ocean
272.	F"	8	3°	48′ S.,	152°	56′ W.	Ocean
273.	F"	9	5°	11′ S.,	152°	56′ W.	Ocean
274.	F"	11	7°	25′ S.,	152°	15′ W.	Ocean
275.	F"	14	11°	20′ S.,	150°	30′ W.	Ocean

276.	F"	16	13°	28′ S.,	149°	30′ W.	Paumotu.
280.	Oct.	4	18°	40′ S.,	149°	52′ W.	S. of Tahiti.
281.	F"	6	22°	21′ S.,	150°	17′ W.	Tubuai Islands.
282.	F"	7	23°	46′ S.,	149°	59′ W.	Tubuai Islands.
283.	F"	9	26°	9′ S.,	145°	17′ W.	N. of Oparo Island.

284.	F"	11	28°	22′ S.,	141°	22′ W.	S. of Oparo Island.
285.	F"	14	32°	36′ S.,	137°	43′ W.	Ocean	Open South Pacific Ocean, between New Zealand and Valparaiso.
286.	F"	16	33°	29′ S.,	133°	22′ W.	Ocean
287.	F"	19	36°	32′ S.,	132°	52′ W.	Ocean
288.	F"	21	40°	3′ S.,	132°	58′ W.	Ocean

289.	F"	23	39°	41′ S.,	131°	23′ W.	Ocean
290.	F"	25	39°	16′ S.,	124°	7′ W.	Ocean
291.	F"	27	39°	13′ S.,	118°	49′ W.	Ocean
292.	F"	29	38°	43′ S.,	112°	31′ W.	Ocean
293.	Nov.	1	39°	4′ S.,	105°	5′ W.	Ocean

294.	F"	3	39°	22′ S.,	98°	46′ W.	Ocean
295.	F"	5	38°	7′ S.,	94°	4′ W.	Ocean
296.	F"	9	38°	6′ S.,	88°	2′ W.	Ocean
297.	F"	11	37°	29′ S.,	83°	7′ W.	Ocean
298.	F"	17	34°	7′ S.,	73°	56′ W.	W. of Valparaiso.

299.	Dec.	14	33°	31′ S.,	74°	43′ W.	W. of Valparaiso.
300.	F"	17	33°	42′ S.,	78°	18′ W.	N. of Juan Fernandez.
302.	F"	28	42°	43′ S.,	82°	11′ W.	(Ocean).
303.	F"	30	45°	31′ S.,	78°	9′ W.	W. of Patagonia.
304.	F"	31	46°	53′ S.,	75°	12′ W.	W. of Patagonia.
	1876.
318.	Feb.	11	42°	32′ S.,	56°	29′ W.	(Ocean).
319.	F"	12	41°	54′ S.,	54°	48′ W.	(Ocean).
323.	F"	28	35°	39′ S.,	50°	47′ W.	W. of Buenos Ayres.
324.	F"	29	36°	9′ S.,	48°	22′ W.	Ocean	Open South Atlantic Ocean, between Buenos Ayres and Tristan da Cunha (35°-37° S. lat., 21°-48° W. long.).
325.	Mar.	2	36°	44′ S.,	46°	16′ W.	Ocean

326.	F"	3	37°	3′ S.,	44°	17′ W.	Ocean
327.	F"	4	36°	48′ S.,	42°	45′ W.	Ocean
328.	F"	6	37°	38′ S.,	39°	36′ W.	Ocean
329.	F"	7	37°	31′ S.,	36°	7′ W.	Ocean
330.	F"	8	37°	45′ S.,	33°	0′ W.	Ocean

331.	F"	9	37°	47′ S.,	30°	20′ W.	Ocean
332.	F"	10	37°	29′ S.,	27°	31′ W.	Ocean
333.	F"	13	35°	36′ S.,	21°	12′ W.	Ocean
334.	F"	14	35°	45′ S.,	18°	31′ W.	W. of Tristan da Cunha.
335.	F"	16	32°	24′ S.,	13°	5′ W.	N. of Tristan da Cunha.

	Locality 1.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
						1876.
338.	Tr. Atl.	1990	36.3	gl. oz.	D f"	Mar.	21	21°	15′ S.,	14°	2′ W.	(Ocean).
340.	Tr. "	1500	37.6	pt. oz.	E very few	F"	24	14°	33′ S.,	13°	42′ W.	Ocean	W. of St. Helena.
341.	Tr. "	1475	38.2	pt. oz.	E very"	F"	25	12°	16′ S.,	13°	44′ W.	Ocean
342.	Tr. "	1445	37.5	pt. oz.	D few	F"	26	9°	43′ S.,	13°	51′ W.	Ocean
343.	Tr. "	425	40.3	volc. s.	E very few	F"	27	8°	3′ S.,	14°	27′ W.	Ascension Island.

344.	Tr. "	420	...	volc. s.	E very"	April	3	7°	54′ S.,	14°	28′ W.	Ascension Island.
345.	Tr. "	2010	36.8	gl. oz.	D few	F"	4	5°	45′ S.,	14°	25′ W.	Ocean	Tropical Atlantic, between Ascension and Sierra Leone.
346.	Tr. "	2350	34.0	gl. oz.	C many	F"	6	2°	42′ S.,	14°	41′ W.	Ocean
347.	Tr. "	2250	36.2	gl. oz.	B numerous	F"	7	0°	15′ S.,	14°	25′ W.	Ocean
348.	Tr. "	(2450)	...	(Pelag.)	B num"	F"	9	3°	10′ N.,	14°	51′ W.	Ocean

349.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"	F"	10	5°	28′ N.,	14°	38′ W.	Ocean
350.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"	F"	11	7°	33′ N.,	15°	16′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
351.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"	F"	12	9°	9′ N.,	16°	41′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
352.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"	F"	13	10°	55′ N.,	17°	46′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
353.	N. Atl.	2965	37.6	r. cl.	C many	May	3	26°	21′ N.,	33°	37′ W.	W. of Canary Islands.

354.	N. "	1675	37.8	gl. oz.	D few	F"	6	32°	41′ N.,	36°	6′ W.	S. of Azores.

	Locality 2.				Relative Abundance of Radiolaria.

338.	Tr. Atl.	1990	36.3	gl. oz.	D f"
340.	Tr. "	1500	37.6	pt. oz.	E very few
341.	Tr. "	1475	38.2	pt. oz.	E very"
342.	Tr. "	1445	37.5	pt. oz.	D few
343.	Tr. "	425	40.3	volc. s.	E very few

344.	Tr. "	420	...	volc. s.	E very"
345.	Tr. "	2010	36.8	gl. oz.	D few
346.	Tr. "	2350	34.0	gl. oz.	C many
347.	Tr. "	2250	36.2	gl. oz.	B numerous
348.	Tr. "	(2450)	...	(Pelag.)	B num"

349.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"
350.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"
351.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"
352.	Tr. "	...	...	(Pelag.)	B num"
353.	N. Atl.	2965	37.6	r. cl.	C many

354.	N. "	1675	37.8	gl. oz.	D few

	Date.	Latitude and Longitude.	Nearest Land.
	1876.
338.	Mar.	21	21°	15′ S.,	14°	2′ W.	(Ocean).
340.	F"	24	14°	33′ S.,	13°	42′ W.	Ocean	W. of St. Helena.
341.	F"	25	12°	16′ S.,	13°	44′ W.	Ocean
342.	F"	26	9°	43′ S.,	13°	51′ W.	Ocean
343.	F"	27	8°	3′ S.,	14°	27′ W.	Ascension Island.

344.	April	3	7°	54′ S.,	14°	28′ W.	Ascension Island.
345.	F"	4	5°	45′ S.,	14°	25′ W.	Ocean	Tropical Atlantic, between Ascension and Sierra Leone.
346.	F"	6	2°	42′ S.,	14°	41′ W.	Ocean
347.	F"	7	0°	15′ S.,	14°	25′ W.	Ocean
348.	F"	9	3°	10′ N.,	14°	51′ W.	Ocean

349.	F"	10	5°	28′ N.,	14°	38′ W.	Ocean
350.	F"	11	7°	33′ N.,	15°	16′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
351.	F"	12	9°	9′ N.,	16°	41′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
352.	F"	13	10°	55′ N.,	17°	46′ W.	W. of Sierra Leone.
353.	May	3	26°	21′ N.,	33°	37′ W.	W. of Canary Islands.

354.	F"	6	32°	41′ N.,	36°	6′ W.	S. of Azores.

(§§ 241-250.)

241. Historical Distribution.—Radiolaria are found fossil in all the more important groups of the sedimentary rocks of the earth's crust. Whilst a few years ago their well-preserved siliceous skeletons were only known in considerable quantity from Cainozoic marls (§ 242), very many Spumellaria and Nassellaria have recently been found in Mesozoic and a few in Palæozoic strata. By the aid of improved modern methods of investigation (especially by the preparation of thin sections of very hard rocks) it has been shown that many hard siliceous minerals, especially cryptocrystalline quartz, contain numerous well-preserved Radiolaria, and sometimes are mainly composed of closely compacted masses of such siliceous shells; of this kind are many quartzites of the Jura (§ 243). These Jurassic quartzes (Switzerland), as well as the Tertiary marls (Barbados) and clays (Nicobar Islands), are to be regarded as "fossil Radiolarian ooze" (§ 237). Dense masses of compressed Spumellaria and Nassellaria form the principal part of these rocks. Isolated or in smaller quantities, fossil Polycystina, belonging to different families of Spumellaria and Nassellaria, also occur in in other rocks, and even in some of Palæozoic origin. Since specimens have also been recently found both in Silurian and Cambrian strata, it may be stated that as regards their historical distribution, Radiolaria occur in all fossiliferous sedimentary deposits, from the oldest to those of the present time.

242. Cainozoic Radiolaria.—The great majority of fossil Radiolaria which have hitherto been described, belong to the Cainozoic or Tertiary period, and in fact, to its middle portion, the Miocene period. At this period the richest and most important of all the Radiolarian formations were deposited, such as the pure "Polycystine marl" of Barbados (see note A), also that of Grotte in Sicily (see note B), and the clay of the Nicobar Islands (see note C). Besides the above-mentioned deposits, which may be designated "pure" fossil Radiolarian ooze, many deposits containing these organisms have recently been discovered in widely separated parts of the earth, partly of the nature of tripoli or marl, partly resembling clay. Among these may be mentioned in the first place many coasts and islands of the Mediterranean, both on the south coast of Europe (Sicily, Calabria, Greece), and the north coast of Africa (from Oran to Tripoli). The extensive layers of tripoli which are found in these Mediterranean Tertiary mountains belong to the upper Miocene (Tortona stage), and consist partly of marl rich in calcareous matter, and resembling chalk, partly passing over into plastic clay or "Kieselguhr" (§ 246). The quantity of Radiolaria contained varies, and is more conspicuous the fewer the calcareous shells of Foraminifera present. Similar Tertiary Polycystine formations occur in some parts of America (see note D); probably they have a very wide distribution. In their general morphological characters, the Tertiary Spumellaria and Nassellaria {clxv}are related to those forms which are found in the recent Radiolarian ooze of the depths of the Pacific, especially to the species which are characteristic of the Challenger Stations 225, 226, 265 and 268. Many living genera and families (e.g., most Larcoidea and Stephoidea) have not yet been found in the Tertiary formations.

A. The famous Polycystine marl of Barbados in the Antilles, which Robert Schomburgk discovered forty years ago, belongs to the Miocene formation, and is the richest and best known of all the important Radiolarian deposits (see L. N. 16, pp. 5-8). After Ehrenberg had published in December 1846 the first preliminary communication regarding its composition out of masses of well-preserved Polycystina, he was able in the following year to describe no less than 282 species from it; he distributed these in 44 genera and 7 families (L. N. 4, 1847, p. 54). In the year 1854 Ehrenberg published figures of 33 species in his Mikrogeologie (L. N. 6, Taf. xxxvi.); but it was only in 1873 that he published descriptions of 265 species (Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Jan. 30, pp. 213-263). Finally there followed in 1875 his Fortsetzung der Mikrogeologischen Studien, mit specieller Rücksicht auf den Polycystinen-Mergel von Barbados (L. N. 25). On the thirty plates which accompany this the last work of Ehrenberg, 282 species are figured and named, of which 54 are Spumellaria (13 Sphæroidea, 8 Prunoidea, 33 Discoidea), and 228 Nassellaria (2 Stephoidea, 38 Spyroidea, and 188 Cyrtoidea). The fourth section of this memoir contains a survey of the Polycystine formation of Barbados (pp. 106-115), and the fifth section the special description of a large specimen of rock from Mount Hillaby in Barbados (see also L. N. 28, p. 117, and L. N. 41, pp. 476-478). The account given by Ehrenberg of the Polycystina of Barbados is in many respects very incomplete, and very far from exhausting this rich mine of remarkable forms. This may be readily seen from the twenty-five plates of figures of Polycystins in the Barbados Chalk Deposit published by Bury in 1862 (L. N. 17). The number of species here figured (140 to 142) is about half of those given by Ehrenberg; and there are among them numerous generic types, some of great interest, which were entirely overlooked by the latter; e.g. Saturnalis (Sphæroidea), Cannartidium (Prunoidea), Tympanidium (Stephoidea), Cinclopyramis (Cyrtoidea), &c. Finally, Ehrenberg always (until 1875) ignored Bury's atlas, which had been published thirteen years ago and was quite accessible to him. How different were the contents of the two works may easily be seen from the following abstract.

Comparative View of the Species of Fossil Radiolaria from Barbados made known by the figures of Bury in 1862 and of Ehrenberg in 1875.

Legion.	Order.	Bury.	Ehrenberg.	Total.
II. Legion Spumellaria (Peripylea).		1. Sphæroidea	16	13	29
2. Prunoidea	10	8	18
3. Discoidea	37	33	70

II. Legion Nassellaria (Monopylea).		4. Stephoidea	5	2	7
5. Spyroidea	13	38	51
6. Cyrtoidea	60	188	248
	Total,	141	282	423

Legion.	Order.	Bury.	Ehrenberg.	Total.
II. Legion Spumellaria (Peripylea).	1. Sphæroidea	16	13	29
2. Prunoidea	10	8	18
3. Discoidea	37	33	70
II. Legion Nassellaria (Monopylea).	4. Stephoidea	5	2	7
5. Spyroidea	13	38	51
6. Cyrtoidea	60	188	248
Total,	141	282	423

In 1882 Bütschli still further increased the number of known Radiolaria from Barbados both by figures and descriptions (L. N. 40), and gave in particular a very accurate morphological analysis of 12 new Nassellaria (3 Stephoidea, 3 Spyroidea, and 6 Cyrtoidea; L. N. 40, Taf. xxxii., xxxiii.). The number of the fossil species collected in the Barbados marl is, however, greater than would appear from the above-quoted communications. My respected friend, Dr. R. Teuscher, of Jena, has, at my request, made a large number (about a thousand) of very accurate drawings with the camera lucida of Polycystina from Barbados (see p. 1760). From these it appears that the variations in the structure of the shells, with respect to number, size, and form of the lattice-pores, of the spines, &c., is much greater than would be supposed from the figures of Ehrenberg and Bury. I have thus come to the conviction that the number of species from Barbados (using the word "species" in the sense understood by those authors) is not less than 400 and probably more than 500. Descriptions of some particularly interesting new species from this series have been included in the systematic account of the Challenger Radiolaria. A complete critical investigation of the Radiolaria of Barbados, and especially an accurate comparison of these Cainozoic species with the Mesozoic forms from the Jura, on the one hand, and with recent types on the other, must be left to the future for its accomplishment (see § 246).

B. The Cainozoic Polycystine tripoli or marl of the Mediterranean coast, which is probably always of Miocene origin, forms very extensive mountain ranges both in the south of Europe (Sicily, Calabria, Greece) and in the north of Africa (from Oran to Tripoli) (§ 246). Hitherto, however, only one locality has been thoroughly investigated, namely, Grotte in the province of Girgenti in Sicily (L. N. 35). In the accurate account which was given of it by Stöhr in 1880, 118 species were described, distributed in 40 genera (L. N. 35; pp. 72-84); of these 118 species 78 are quite new, 25 are identical with previously known fossils, and 29 identical with living forms. Among them are 73 Spumellaria (28 Sphæroidea, 8 Prunoidea, and 37 Discoidea), but only 40 Nassellaria (1 Stephoidea, 6 Spyroidea, and 33 Cyrtoidea), and 5 Phæodaria (Dictyochida). The other parts of Sicily from which the same upper Miocene tripoli has been investigated (belonging to the Tortona stage) have proved less rich than Grotte. The best known of these places is Caltanisetta, since upon three genera discovered here (Haliomma, Cornutella, Lithocampe) the group Polycystina was founded by Ehrenberg in 1838 (see L. N. 16, p. 3). Afterwards 31 species were described from this locality, of which 23 were again found in Grotte. The richest deposit on the Mediterranean coast, however, appears to be at Oran. A small specimen of the Kieselguhr found there, which was recently sent to me by Professor Steinman, proved to be pure Radiolarian ooze, very similar to that now found in the Central Pacific, and contained many hitherto undescribed species; it is deserving of careful investigation and comparison.

C. Regarding the Tertiary Radiolarian clay of the Nicobar Islands, see § 247 and L. N. 25, pp. 116-120. Its fauna is incompletely known; probably it is of Miocene or Oligocene origin.

D. Cainozoic tripoli, containing larger or smaller quantities of Radiolaria, appears to be rather widely distributed in America. Ehrenberg has described such from South America (polishing-slate from Morro di Mijellones, on the coast between Chili and Bolivia), and from North America (Richmond and Petersburg in Virginia, Piscataway in Maryland). Similar deposits are also found in the Bermuda Islands (L. N. 4, 1855-56; L. N. 6, Taf. 18; L. N. 16, pp. 3-9; L. N. 41, pp. 475-478, and L. N. 25, pp. 2-6).

243. Mesozoic Radiolaria.—From the Mesozoic or Secondary period numerous well-preserved Radiolaria have recently been described. They belong for the most part to the Jurassic formation (see notes A, B, C), whilst the more recent Chalk (see note D) and the older Trias (see note E) have hitherto yielded but few species. All the main divisions of the Jura, both the upper (Malm) and the middle (Dogger), and especially the lower (Lias) appear in certain localities to be very rich in well-preserved shells of fossil Polycystina. Most of these are aggregated together in coprolites and quartzites (jasper, chert, flint, &c., § 248). The majority are Cyrtoidea, the minority Sphæroidea and Discoidea in almost equal proportions; a few Beloidea (Sphærozoum) and Phæocystina (Dictyocha) are also found among them. The general morphological character of these Jurassic Radiolaria is very different from that of the nearly related Tertiary and living forms. In general, their siliceous shells are firmer and more massive, usually also somewhat larger, but of simpler structure. The manifold delicate appendages (spines, bristles, feet, wings, &c.) which are so richly developed in the living Spumellaria and Nassellaria, and are also well shown in the Tertiary species, are entirely wanting in the majority of the Jurassic Polycystina. The Sphæroidea and Prunoidea are all simple spherical or ellipsoidal lattice-shells (Monosphærida); concentric lattice-shells (Polysphærida) are entirely wanting. The Cyrtoidea are, for the most part, devoid of radial processes or basal feet (Eradiata); triradiate and multiradiate forms, such as are found abundantly in the recent and Tertiary formations, are very rare. The large number of many-jointed forms (Stichocyrtida) and of Cyrtoidea with latticed basal opening is very striking.

A. The most important work on the Jurassic Radiolaria, regarding which but little was known prior to the year 1885, is the valuable and in some respects very interesting Beiträge zur Kenntniss der fossilen Radiolarien aus Gesteinen des Jura, by Dr. Rüst of Freiburg i. B. (1885, Palæontographica, Bd. xxxi. 51 pp. with 12 plates). Unfortunately this important work was issued only when about half of the present Report was printed off, so that it was no longer possible to include the 234 species there described in its systematic part. I have therefore elsewhere given a list of the Jurassic Radiolaria, and at present only make the following remarks:—Of the 234 species described, the larger half (130) belong to the Nassellaria (Cyrtoidea), the smaller half (102) to the Spumellaria (38 Sphæroidea, 14 Prunoidea, and 50 Discoidea). In addition, there are 2 Phæodaria depicted, and several spicules which are probably to be referred to the Beloidea. Among the 130 Cyrtoidea (of which 2 are described as Botryodea), there are 24 Monocyrtida, 14 Dicyrtida, 22 Tricyrtida, and 70 Stichocyrtida. Just as striking as the predominant number of the last is the fact that there are only very few triradiate (9) and multiradiate (4) species found among these 130 Cyrtoidea, as also the large number of species with latticed basal opening; Stephoidea appear to be entirely wanting. The rich material of jasper, chert, flint, and coprolites in which Dr. Rüst found these Radiolaria, is derived for the most part from the Jurassic rocks of Germany (Hanover, South Bavaria), Tyrol, and Switzerland (compare § 248).

B. Jurassic Radiolaria from Italy, also found in jasper, which are closely related to the forms from Germany and Switzerland described by Dr. Rüst, were made known so long ago as 1880 by Dante Pantanelli in his treatise I Diaspri della Toscana e i loro Fossili (Rome, 1880, 33 pp. 60 figs.). Pantanelli believes, however, that this jasper is for the most part of Eocene origin; but from his description, and especially from the morphological character of the forms which he figures, it appears very probable "that these Tuscan jaspers from Galestro, like those of the Swiss conglomerates, are found in a secondary locality and belong to the Jurassic period" (Rüst, L. N. 51, p. 3). Unfortunately the figures of Pantanelli are so small and incomplete that a reliable determination of the species is hardly possible; for example, the lattice-work is only given in ten of the sixty figures. Among the 32 recorded species 15 are Spumellaria (6 Sphæroidea and 9 Discoidea) and 17 Nassellaria (4 Stephoidea and 13 Cyrtoidea); many of which seem to be identical with the forms more accurately described by Dr. Rüst (compare p. 1762).

C. From the Lias of the Alps and more particularly "from the lower Liassic beds of the Schafberg near Salzburg," Dr. Emil von Dunikowski in 1882 described 18 species of fossil Radiolaria (L. N. 44, pp. 22-34, Taf. iv.-vi.); most of these are Sphæroidea and Discoidea and appear to have been more or less altered by petrological changes; their spongy structure is probably secondary.

D. Cretaceous Radiolaria have been hitherto described only in very small numbers; quite recently Dr. Rüst has found a larger number chiefly in flints from the English chalk, but they have not yet been published. In 1876 Zittel described 6 very well-preserved species from the upper chalk of North Germany (L. N. 29, pp. 76-96, Taf. ii.); among them were 1 Sphæroidea, 1 Discoidea, 1 Dictyocha, and 3 Cyrtoidea.

E. Triassic Radiolaria have recently been discovered by Dr. Rüst in chert, but have not yet been described.

244. Palæozoic Radiolaria.—The number of Radiolaria which are known from the Palæozoic or Primary formations is much less than from either the Mesozoic or Cainozoic periods. Here, however, the investigations of recent times have yielded important information; a few species, at all events, of Polycystina (mostly Sphæroidea) are now known from various Palæozoic formations, and not only from the Permian ("Zechstein") and the Coal-measures, but also from the older Devonian and Silurian systems. Even in the still older Cambrian rocks a few fossil Radiolaria have been found. All these Palæozoic Radiolaria are Polycystina of very simple form and primitive structure, mostly simple Spumellaria (latticed spheres, ellipsoids, lenses, &c.), but partly also simple Nassellaria.

The important discoveries which have recently been made by Dr. Rüst regarding the occurrence of Radiolaria in all the Palæozoic formations have not yet been published. From conversations with this estimable palæontologist I have learned, however, that he has pursued his fruitful investigation of the Mesozoic quartzites (§ 243), and has met with no less success in the case of similar Palæozoic structures. Although the number of species hitherto discovered is relatively small, the important conclusion appears to be warranted that they extend as far as the Silurian and Cambrian systems. All these very ancient Spumellaria (Sphæroidea) and Nassellaria (Cyrtoidea) {clxix}exhibit very primitive structural relations. The occurrence of fossil Polycystina in the Carboniferous formation of England has been incidentally mentioned by W. J. Sollas:—"In the carboniferous beds of North Wales pseudomorphs of Radiolaria in calcite occur, along with minute quartz crystals" (Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., 1880, ser. 5, vol. vi. p. 439); and in the siliceous slate-beds of Saxony Rothpletz has shown the existence of a few Sphæroidea (Zeitschr. d. Deutsch. Geol. Gesellsch., 1800, p. 447).

245. Abundance of Radiolaria in the Various Rocks.—The relative quantity of well-preserved or at all events recognisable Radiolaria in the different rocks is very variable. In this respect three different degrees may be distinguished, which may be called shortly "pure, mixed, and poor" Radiolarian formations. The pure Radiolarian rocks consist for the greater part (usually much more than half, sometimes even more than three-quarters) of closely compacted often calcined masses of siliceous Polycystine shells. To this category belong the pure Miocene Polycystine marls of Barbados (§ 246), the Tertiary Polycystine clay of the Nicobar Islands (§ 247), and the Polycystine quartz of the Jura (§ 248). All these pure Radiolarian rocks may be regarded as fossil Radiolarian ooze (§ 237), and are certainly of deep-sea origin, having probably been deposited at depths greater than 2000 fathoms. Their palæontological character also is in favour of this view, for the abyssal Osculosa (§ 235) are more abundant and richer in species than the pelagic Porulosa (§ 233). The elevation of this deep-sea layer above the surface of the sea appears to have taken place but seldom; it has only been observed on a large scale at Barbados and in the Nicobar Islands. The mixed Radiolarian rocks are much more common; they were probably deposited at much less depths, or perhaps are not true deep-sea formations at all. The siliceous shells of Polycystina always constitute less than half (sometimes less than one-tenth) of their mass, and are less prominent than other siliceous remains (Diatoms), or calcareous remains (Foraminifera), or in some cases than the mineral constituents (pumice, &c.). To this group belong many of the above-mentioned Tertiary marls and clays (especially the Mediterranean Tripoli), also many flints, cherts, and other quartzites from Mesozoic strata (especially from the Jura), and probably also some palæozoic quartzites. The marine ooze from which they have originated may have been deposited at very various, even at slight, depths of the ocean. Formations poor in Radiolaria, which contain only a few species of Spumellaria and Nassellaria mingled with other fossil remains and mineral particles, occur in all formations and are probably very widely distributed. Further careful examination of thin sections (especially of coprolites) will yield here a rich harvest of new forms. Both the mixed and the pure Radiolarian formations may be divided according to their petrographic characters into three groups, which, however, are connected by intermediate varieties—(1) soft, chalky marl (§ 246), (2) plastic clay (§ 247), and (3) hard, flinty quartz (§ 248).

246. Radiolarian Marl.—Those soft, friable rocks, which contain a large quantity of calcareous matter, but consist for the most part of the shells of Spumellaria and Nassellaria, are called Radiolarian or Polycystine marl, often more correctly Polycystine tripoli; the best known example of them is the chalky marl of Barbados in the Antilles (§ 242). The Tertiary mountain system of this island, which in Mount Hillaby rises to a height of 1147 feet and includes about 15,800 acres, consists almost exclusively of these remarkable masses of rock. Most of it appears as a soft, earthy, often chalky marl, with a considerable but variable amount of calcareous matter. Those specimens, the greater half of which is composed of well-preserved siliceous shells of Polycystina, and which contain little lime, approach the tripoli and "Kieselguhr." Those specimens, however, which contain the largest amount of calcareous matter resemble common writing chalk in consistency, and consist for the most part of shells of Foraminifera and their fragments; of these there are only few species but large numbers of individuals, generally in small fragments with a fine calcareous powder between them. They may be regarded as fossil Globigerina ooze (§ 238). In a third group of specimens from Barbados the quantity of fragments of pumice and other volcanic matters predominates; the amount of clay is also very considerable; these deposits pass over partly into actual clay partly into volcanic tuff. A fourth group exhibits relations to a coarser often ferruginous material, and although the shells of Polycystina are less abundant in it, still it may be shown to be composed largely of fragments and metamorphosed remains of them. The colour of this deposit, which in some places passes over into sandstone, in others into clay, is usually rather dark, grey, brown, sometimes red and occasionally black (bituminous). The Radiolarian marls of the first two groups, which sometimes approach the white chalk, sometimes the Kieselguhr, are grey, or even pure white (see note A). The same constitution is exhibited by the yellowish or white, very light and friable Polycystine marls of Sicily, which in Caltanisetta approach the chalk, and in Grotte the Kieselguhr. In Greece (Ægina, Zante, &c.), on the other hand, they pass over into plastic clay, and the same occurs in the Baden marl of the Vienna basin. In North Africa, however, on the Mediterranean shores of which the Radiolarian marl seems to be very widely distributed (from Tripoli to Oran), it sometimes becomes changed into actual firm polishing slate, sometimes into pulverulent Kieselguhr or tripoli (Terra tripolitana, see note B). Most of these Radiolarian marls appear to date from the middle Tertiary (Miocene) period, and to be deep-sea formations.

A. The Polycystine marl of Barbados appears at different parts of the island to present greater variations in its petrographical and zoographical composition than would appear from Ehrenberg's description (1875, L. N. 25, pp. 106-116). Through the kindness of one of my former students, Dr. Dorner, to whom I take this opportunity of expressing my thanks for the favour, I received a large number of specimens of Barbados rock, taken from various parts of the island, and they exhibit very great variations in their external appearance, their chemical composition, and the {clxxi}Radiolaria which they contain. The white specimens resembling Kieselguhr contained approximately 60 to 70 per cent. by volume of Radiolarian shells, the yellowish marl 40 to 50 per cent., and the brown and black (bituminous) marl 10 to 20 per cent. or less. Two analyses of the first, which my friend Dr. W. Weber was good enough to carry out, yielded different results from those which are given by Ehrenberg on the basis of Rammelsberg's analyses (L. N. 25, p. 116). The results of both are here given for comparison.

Ehrenberg-Rammelsberg (Fragment from Hillaby).	Weber I. (Chalk-like Fragment).	Weber II. (Tripoli-like Fragment).
Silicate of alumina,	59.47	Silica,	52.2	71.3
Alumina and oxide of iron,	1.95	Alumina (with traces of oxide of iron),	12.3	11.2
Calcium carbonate,	34.31
Water,	3.67	Lime and magnesia,	31.9	14.8
	Carbon dioxide,	3.2	02.7
——	——	——0
Total,	99.40	Total,	99.6	100.00

For further comparison I here add the three different analyses of Miocene Tripoli-marls from Sicily, given by Stöhr on the authority of Fremy, Schwager, and Mottura (Tagebl. d. fünfzigsten Versamml. Deutsch. Naturf. u. Aertzte in München, 1877, p. 163).

Composition.	Tripoli from Licata (Fremy).	Tripoli from Grotte (Schwager).	Tripoli from Caltanisetta (Mottura).
Silica,	30.98	58.58	68.6
Alumina,	17.54	11.51		3.6
Oxide of iron,	0.33	1.84
Lime,		38.09		8.49	12.1
Magnesia,	0.41
Water and organic matter,		13.06		11.26	15.2
Carbonic acid,	7.12
	100.00	99.21	99.5

B. The Radiolarian marl of the Mediterranean appears, judging by the accounts already published, to stretch along a considerable part of the coast in the earlier and middle Tertiary formations; thus it occurs of similar composition in widely separated localities, in Sicily, Calabria, Zante, and Greece; in North Africa from Tripoli to Oran and probably much farther. So long ago as 1854 Ehrenberg, in his Mikrogeologie (L. N. 6) gave a series of important, even if incomplete, communications regarding the "chalky white calcareous marl of Caltanisetta" (Taf. xxii.), the "Platten marl of Zante" (Taf. xx.), the "plastic clay of Ægina" (Taf xix.), and the "polishing slate of Oran" (Taf. xxi.). In 1880 Stöhr showed in his fundamental description of the Tripoli from {clxxii}Grotte in Sicily (L. N. 35) that its Radiolarian fauna is much richer than Ehrenberg supposed. The same is the case in the Tripoli of Caltanisetta, and also in the Baden marl of the Vienna basin. The richest deposit appears to be the pure Kieselguhr-like Tripoli from Oran; a small specimen, which was recently sent to me by Professor Steinmann of Freiburg, i. B., contained many hitherto undescribed species, and was at least as rich as the purest Barbados marl.

247. Radiolarian Clays.—Among the Radiolarian or Polycystine clays we include the firm, often plastic, formations, which contain a larger proportion of Radiolaria than of other organic remains. The first of these to be mentioned is the Cainozoic formation of the Nicobar Islands in Further India, which rises to a height of 2000 feet above the level of the sea, and consists for the most part of coloured masses of clay of varying constitution; on Car Nicobar these are mostly grey or reddish, on the Island of Camorta they are partly strongly ferruginous and red and yellow (e.g. at Frederickshaven), partly white and light, like meerschaum (e.g. at Mongkata). The latter varieties appear to pass over into pure loose Polycystine marl like that of Barbados, the former into calcareous sandstone. Although the Polycystine clays of the Nicobar Islands are as yet only very incompletely known, it may be concluded with great probability that they are true deep-sea formations and nearly allied to those recent forms of red clay, which by their abundance in Radiolaria most nearly approach the Radiolarian ooze, such for example as the red clay of the North Pacific between Japan and the Sandwich Islands (Stations 241 to 245, compare §§ 229 and 239). With this view agrees also the greater or less quantity of pumice dust and other volcanic products. Probably Radiolarian clays like those of the Nicobar Islands occur also in other Tertiary rocks; part of the Barbados marl passes by gradually increasing content of clay into such; and in this case also the amount of included pumice is often considerable. Many mixed Radiolarian marls of the Mediterranean (e.g., of Greece and Oran) also appear to pass over at certain points into Radiolarian clay.

The Radiolarian clays of the Nicobar Islands are unfortunately very incompletely known both as regards their geological nature and their palæontological composition. The communications of Rink (Die Nikobaren-Inseln, eine geographische Skizze, Kopenhagen, 1847) and of Ehrenberg (L. N. 6, p. 160 and L. N. 25, pp. 116 to 120) leave many important questions unanswered. The latter has only figured twenty-three species in his Mikrogeologie (L. N. 6, Taf. xxxvi.). In his tabular list of names (L. N. 25, p. 120) he only incompletely records thirty-nine species, although in 1850, immediately after the first examination of the Nicobar clay, he had distinguished "more than a hundred species, partly new, partly identical with those of Barbados" (L. N. 16, p. 8). I have unfortunately been unable in spite of many efforts, to obtain for investigation a specimen of Nicobar clay. The only microscopical preparation (from Ehrenberg's collection), which I was able to examine, contained several hitherto undescribed species. A thorough systematic examination of these important Radiolarian clays is a pressing necessity, especially as they seem to be markedly different from those of the Mediterranean (from Ægina, Zante, &c.).

248. Radiolarian Quartzes.—Under the name Radiolarian or Polycystine quartzes are included those hard, siliceous rocks, which consist for the most part of the closely compacted shells of Spumellaria and Nassellaria. To these "cryptocrystalline quartzes," or better, quartzites, belong more especially the pure Radiolarian formations of the Jura, which have been described as flint, chert, jasper, as well as other cryptocrystalline quartzites. Most of the rocks of this nature hitherto examined are from Germany (Hanover, South Bavaria), Hungary, Tyrol, and Switzerland; others are known from Italy (Tuscany). They occur both in the upper and middle, but especially in the lower Jurassic formation (also in the lower layers of the Alpine Lias). A small part of them has been examined in their primary situation (the red jaspers of Allgäu and Tyrol), the greater part, however, only as loose rolled stones in secondary situations (thus in Switzerland in the breccia of the Rigi, in the conglomerate of the Uetli-Berg, and in many boulders of the Rhine, the Limmat, the Reuss, and the Aar). The greatest abundance, however, of Jurassic Radiolaria has been yielded by the silicified coprolites from the Lias of Hanover. These "Radiolarian coprolites" are roundish or cylindrical bodies, which may attain the size of a goose-egg; they probably originated from Fish or Cephalopods, which had fed upon Crustacea, Pteropoda, and similar pelagic organisms, whose stomachs were already full of Radiolarian skeletons. Next to the coprolites the richest is the red jasper, whose colour varies from bright to dark red; it constitutes a true "silicified deep-sea Radiolarian ooze." The "Aptychus beds" also of South Bavaria and Tyrol are very rich, and have furnished about one-third of all the Radiolaria known from the Jura; most of the species too are very well preserved (compare § 243).

Regarding the remarkable composition and manifold varieties of the Jurassic Radiolarian quartz, the very full treatise of Dr. Rüst may be consulted (L. N. 51). The very interesting Radiolarian coprolites, which that author has discovered in the lower and middle Jura of Hanover, occur in astonishing numbers in the iron mines at the village of Gross-Ilsede, four and a half miles south of the town of Peine. They constitute from 2 to 5 per cent. by weight of the Liassic iron ore; of this latter, in the year 1883 alone, not less than two hundred and eighty million kilograms were excavated. It is very probable that the careful microscopic examination of thin sections of coprolites, as well as of flints, chert, jasper, and other quartzites, would yield a rich harvest of fossil Radiolaria in other formations also. In Italy Dante Pantanelli has discovered interesting Polycystine jaspers in Tuscany (L. N. 36, 45); these also appear to occur in the Jura (compare § 243, and L. N. 51, pp. 3-10).

249. Fossil Groups.—The preservation of Radiolaria in the fossil state is, of course, primarily dependent on the composition of their skeleton. Hence the Acantharia, whose acanthin skeleton although firm is readily soluble, are never found fossil. The same is true of the skeletons of the Phæodaria, which consist of a silicate of carbon; here, however, a single exception is found in the Dictyochida, a subfamily of the Cannorrhaphida, the isolated parts of whose skeletons appear to consist of pure silica, and {clxxiv}are often found fossil. Of the two other legions those families which possess no skeleton are of course excluded; the Nassellida among the Nassellaria, and the Thalassicollida and Collozoida among the Spumellaria. Thus of the 85 known families there remain scarcely 55 of which the skeletons may be expected in the fossil state; and of these scarcely half have been actually observed in this condition. Of the 20 orders of this class enumerated in § 155, the following 9 may be, for palæontological and geological purposes, completely excluded:—(A) The 4 orders of Acantharia (1, Actinelida; 2, Acanthonida; 3, Sphærophracta; 4, Prunophracta); (B) 3 orders of Phæodaria (5, Phæosphæria; 6, Phæogromia; 7, Phæoconchia); (C) 1 order of Nassellaria (8, Nassoidea); (D) 1 order of Spumellaria (9, Colloidea). From a geological point of view the following 6 orders, although occasionally found fossil, are of quite subordinate importance:—(A) Among the Spumellaria (10, Beloidea, and 11, Larcoidea); (B) among the Nassellaria (12, Plectoidea; 13, Stephoidea; 14, Botryodea); (C) among the Phæodaria (15, the Phæocystina). On the other hand the following 5 orders, which are the main constituents of Radiolarian rocks, are of pre-eminent geological importance:—(A) Among the Spumellaria (16, Sphæroidea; 17, Prunoidea; 18, Discoidea); (B) among the Nassellaria (19, Spyroidea, and 20, Cyrtoidea). The numerical relation in which the different families of these orders appear in the Radiolarian formations may be seen on consulting § 157.

250. Fossil and Recent Species.—The fact that there are many Radiolaria living at the present day, whose shells are found fossil in Tertiary rocks, is of great phylogenetic and geological significance. This appeared to be the case even from the older observations upon the Polycystina of the Barbados marl (see note A), but more recent and extensive observations both upon these and upon the Miocene Radiolaria of Sicily, have shown that the number of these "living fossil" forms is much greater than was previously supposed (see note B). Among the Miocene Radiolaria numerous species, both of Spumellaria (especially Sphæroidea and Discoidea) and of Nassellaria (especially Spyroidea and Cyrtoidea) are not to be distinguished from the corresponding still living forms (see notes C, D). On the other hand, those genera, which are rich both in species and individuals (recent as well as fossil), present continuous series of forms which lead gradually and uninterruptedly from old Tertiary species to others still living, which are specifically indistinguishable from them. These interesting morphological facts are capable of direct phylogenetic application, and furnish valuable proofs of the truth of the theory of descent.

A. Ehrenberg, in his list of fossil Polycystina (L. N. 25, pp. 64-85, 1875), records 325 species of which 26 are still living.

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B. Stöhr, in his list of Miocene Radiolaria from Grotte (L. N. 35, p. 84, 1880), records 118 species, of which 29 are still living.

C. Teuscher, who at my request has made a large number of comparative measurements and drawings, both of fossil and living Radiolaria, comes to the conclusion that numerous Spumellaria and Nassellaria from Barbados are to-day extant and unchanged in the Radiolarian ooze of the deep Pacific Ocean (compare § 242A, and p. 1760, Note).

D. From the comparative investigations, which I have made during the last ten years into the recent deep-sea Radiolaria of the Challenger collection and the Miocene Polycystina of Barbados, it appears that about a quarter of the latter are identical with living species of the former.

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL SECTION.

CHAPTER XI.—LITERATURE AND HISTORY.

Note.—In the text the references to the following publications are indicated by the letters L. N.

1. 1834. Meyen, F., Palmellaria (Physematium, Sphærozoum), in Beiträge zur Zoologie, gesammelt auf einer Reise um die Erde. Nova Acta Acad. Cæs. Leop.-Carol., vol. xvi., Suppl., p. 160, Taf. xxviii. figs. 1-7.

2. 1838. Ehrenberg, G., Polycystina (Lithocampe, Cornutella, Haliomma) in Ueber die Bildung der Kreidefelsen und des Kreidemergels durch unsichtbare Organismen. Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 117.

3. 1839. Ehrenberg, G., Ueber noch jetzt lebende Thierarten der Kreidebildung (Haliomma radians). Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 154.

4. 1844-1873. Ehrenberg, G., Vorläufige Mittheilungen über Beobachtungen von Polycystinen. Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin. Republished with illustrations in the Mikrogeologie (L. N. 6) and in the two treatises of 1872 (L. N. 24) and 1875 (L. N. 25). Compare the Monatsberichte of 1844 (pp. 57, 182, 257), of 1846 (p. 382), of 1847 (p. 40), of 1850 (p. 476), of 1854 (pp. 54, 205, 236), of 1855 (pp. 292, 305), of 1856 (pp. 197, 425), of 1857 (pp. 142, 538), of 1858 (pp. 12, 30), of 1859 (p. 569), of 1860 (pp. 765, 819), of 1861 (p. 222), of 1869 (p. 253), of 1872 (pp. 300-321), of 1873 (pp. 214-263). Only one of these small papers is of permanent value, The First Systematic Arrangement of the Polycystina in 7 families, 44 genera, and 282 species (Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1847, p. 54). Compare my Monograph (1862, L. N. 16), pp. 3-12, 214-219.

5. 1851. Huxley, Th., Upon Thalassicolla, a new Zoophyte. Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. pp. 433-442, pl. xvi.

6. 1854. Ehrenberg, G., Mikrogeologie. Figures of numerous Polycystina on 8 plates; Taf. xviii. figs. 110, 111; Taf. xix. figs. 48-56, 60-62; Taf. xx. Nr. i., figs. 20-25, 42; Taf. xxi. figs. 51-56; Taf. xxii. figs. 20-40; Taf. xxxv. A., Nr. xix. A. fig. 5; Taf. xxxv. B. figs. 16-23; Taf. xxxvi. figs. 1-33.

7. 1855. Bailey, J. W., Notice of Microscopic Forms of the Sea of Kamtschatka. Amer. Journ. Sci. and Arts, vol. xxii. p. 1, pl. i.

8. 1855. Müller, Johannes, Ueber Sphærozoum und Thalassicolla. Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 229.

9. 1855. Müller, Johannes, Ueber die im Hafen von Messina beobachteten Polycystinen (Haliomma, Eucyrtidium, Dictyospyris, Podocyrtis). Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 671.

10. 1856. Müller, Johannes, Ueber die Thalassicollen, Polycystinen und Acanthometren des Mittelmeeres. Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 474.

11. 1858. Müller, Johannes, Erläuterung einiger bei St. Tropez am Mittelmeer beobachteter Polycystinen und Acanthometren. Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 154.

12. 1858. Müller, Johannes, Ueber die Thalassicollen, Polycystinen und Acanthometren des Mittelmeeres, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, pp. 1-62, Taf. i.-xi. (The fundamental treatise on the Radiolaria.)

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13. 1858. Schneider, Anton, Ueber zwei neue Thalassicollen von Messina. Archiv f. Anat. u. Physiol., p. 38, Taf. iii. B, figs. 1-4.

14. 1858. Claparède et Lachmann, Echinocystida (Plagiacantha et Acanthometra). Études sur les Infusoires et les Rhizopodes, p. 458, pl. xxii. figs. 8, 9; pl. xxiii. figs. 1-6.

15. 1860. Haeckel, Ernst, Ueber neue lebende Radiolarien des Mittelmeeres. Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, pp. 794, 835.

16. 1862. Haeckel, Ernst, Die Radiolarien (Rhizopoda radiaria). Eine Monographie. 572 pp. fol. with an Atlas of 35 Copperplates.

17. 1862. Bury, Mrs., Polycystins, figures of remarkable forms in the Barbados Chalk Deposit. Ed. ii. By M. C. Cooke, 1868. 25 quarto plates, photographed from drawings by hand, containing many forms overlooked by Ehrenberg from Barbados.

18. 1863 Harting, Paul, Bijdrage tot de Kennis der mikroskopische Fauna en Flora van de Banda-Zee (Diep-Zee-Polycystinen). Verhandl. d. Kon. Akad. van. Wetensch. Amsterdam, vol. ix. p. 30, pls. i.-iii.

19. 1865. Haeckel, Ernst, Ueber den Sarcode-Körper der Rhizopoden (Actinelius, Acanthodesmia, Cyrtidosphæra, &c.). Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xv. p. 342, Taf. xxvi.

20. 1867. Schneider, Anton, Zur Kenntniss des Baues der Radiolarien (Thalassicolla). Archiv f. Anat. u. Physiol., 1867, p. 509.

21. 1870. Haeckel, Ernst, Beiträge zur Plastiden Theorie (Myxobrachia; Amylum in den gelben Zellen). Jenaische Zeitschr. für Naturw., Bd. v. p. 519-540, Taf. xviii.

22. 1871. Cienkowski, L., Ueber Schwärmer-Bildung bei Radiolarien. Archiv f. mikrosk. Anat., Bd. vii. p. 372-381, Taf. xxix.

23. 1872. Wagner, N., Myxobrachia Cienkowskii. Bull. d. Acad. St. Petersburg, vol. xvii. p. 140.

24. 1872. Ehrenberg, Gottfried, Mikrogeologische Studien über das kleinste Leben der Meeres-Tiefgründe aller Zonen und dessen geologischen Einfluss. Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1872. Mit 12 Tafeln. (The Latin diagnoses of 113 new species here mentioned are given in the Monatsberichte of April 25, 1872, pp. 300-321.)

25. 1875. Ehrenberg, Gottfried, Polycystinen-Mergel von Barbados (Fortsetzung der Mikrogeologischen Studien). Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, 168 pag. mit 30 Tafeln. (The Latin diagnoses of 265 species here recorded are given in Namensverzeichniss der fossilen Polycystinen von Barbados. Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Jan. 30, 1873, pp. 213-263.)

26. 1876. Hertwig, Richard, Zur Histologie der Radiolarien. Untersuchungen über den Bau und die Entwickelung der Sphærozoiden und Thalassicolliden. 91 pp. with 5 plates.

27. 1876. Murray, John, Challengerida. Preliminary Reports on Work done on board the Challenger. Proc. Roy. Soc. Lond., vol. xxiv. pp. 471-536, pl. xxiv.

28. 1876. Zittel, Karl, Palæozoologie, Bd. i. pp. 114-126, figs. 46-56.

29. 1876. Zittel, Karl, Ueber fossile Radiolarien der oberen Kreide. Zeitschr. d. deutsch. geol. Gesellsch., Bd. xxviii. pp. 75-96, Taf. ii. (with figures of six Cretaceous species).

30. 1877. Mivart, St. George, Notes touching recent researches on the Radiolaria. Journ. Linn. Soc. Lond. (Zool.), vol. xiv. pp. 136-186. (Historical sketch of previous literature.)

31. 1877. Wyville Thomson, The Voyage of the Challenger—The Atlantic, vol. i. pp. 231-237, figs. 51-54; vol. ii. pp. 340-343, figs. 58, 59, &c.

32. 1878. Haeckel, Ernst, Das Protistenreich, eine populäre Uebersicht über das Formengebiet der niedersten Lebewesen, pp. 101-104.

33. 1879. Hertwig, Richard, Der Organismus der Radiolarien. Jenaische Denkschriften, Bd. ii. Taf. vi.-xvi. pp. 129-277.

34. 1879. Haeckel, Ernst, Ueber die Phæodarien, eine neue Gruppe kieselschaliger mariner Rhizopoden. Sitzungsb. med.-nat. Gesellsch. Jena, December 12, 1879.

35. 1880. Stöhr, Emil, Die Radiolarien-Fauna der Tripoli von Grotte (Provinz Girgenti in Sicilien). Palæontographica, Bd. xxvi. pp. 71-124, Taf. xvii.-xxiii. A preliminary communication regarding this fauna from the tripoli is given in Tagebl. d. Naturf. Versamml. München, 1877.

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36. 1880. Pantanelli, Dante, I Diaspri della Toscana e i loro fossili. Real. Accad. dei Lincei, ser. 3, vol. vii. pp. 13-34, Tab. i. Radiolaria di Calabria. Atti. Soc. Tosc., p. 59.

37. 1881. Haeckel, Ernst, Prodromus Systematis Radiolarium, Entwurf eines Radiolarien-Systems auf Grund von Studien der Challenger-Radiolarien. Jenaische Zeitschr. für Naturw., Bd. xv. pp. 418-472.

38. 1881. Brandt, Karl, Untersuchungen an Radiolarien. Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, (April 21), pp. 388-404, Taf. i.

39. 1882. Brandt, Karl, Ueber die morphologische und physiologische Bedeutung des Chlorophylls bei Thieren. I. Artikel. Archiv f. Anat. u. Physiol., pp. 125-151, Taf. i. II. Artikel. Mittheil. a. d. Zool. Station zu Neapel, Bd. iv. pp. 193-302, Taf. xix., xx.

40. 1882. Bütschli, Otto, Beiträge zur Kenntniss der Radiolarien-Skelette, insbesondere der der Cyrtida. Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xxxvi. pp. 485-540, Taf. xxxi.-xxxiii.

41. 1882. Bütschli, Otto, Radiolaria. In Bronn's Klassen und Ordnungen des Thierreichs. Bd. i., Protozoa, pp. 332-478, Taf. xvii.-xxxii.

42. 1882. Geddes, Patrick, Further Researches on Animals containing Chlorophyll. Nature, pp. 303-305.

43. 1882. Geddes, Patrick, On the Nature and Functions of the "Yellow Cells" of Radiolarians and Cœlenterates. Proc. Roy. Soc. Edin., p. 377.

44. 1882. Dunikowski, Emil, Die Spongien, Radiolarien und Foraminiferen der Unter-Liassischen Schichten vom Schafberg bei Salzburg. Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. pp. 22-34. Taf. iv.-vi.

45. 1882. Pantanelli, Dante, Fauna miocenica di Radiolari del Appennino settentrional. Boll. Soc. Geol. Ital.

46. 1883. Haeckel, Ernst, Die Ordnungen der Radiolarien (Acantharia, Spumellaria, Nassellaria, Phæodaria). Sitzungsb. med.-nat. Gesellsch. Jena, February 16, 1883.

47. 1883. Hertwig, Oscar, Die Symbiose oder das Genossenschaftsleben im Thierreich. 56. Versamml. Deutscher Naturf. u. Aerzte, Freiburg i/B.

48. 1883. Rüst, Wilhelm, Ueber das Vorkommen von Radiolarien-Resten in kryptokrystallinischen Quarzen aus dem Jura und in Koprolithen aus dem Lias. 56. Versamml. Deutscher Naturf. u. Aerzte, Freiburg i/B.

49. 1884. Car, Lazar, Acanthometra hemicompressa (= Zygacantha semicompressa). Zool. Anzeiger, p. 94.

50. 1884. Haeckel, Ernst, Ueber die Geometrie der Radiolarien (Promorphologie). Sitzungsb. med.-nat. Gesellsch. Jena, November 22, 1883.

51. 1885. D. Rüst, Beiträge zur Kenntniss der fossilen Radiolarien aus Gesteinen des Jura. 45 pp. 4to, and 20 plates. Palæontographica, Bd. xxxi. (oder iii. Folge, vii. Band).

52. 1885. Karl Brandt, Die koloniebildenden Radiolarien (Sphærozoeen) des Golfes von Neapel und der angrenzenden Meeres-Abschnitte. 276 pp. 4to, and 8 plates.

53. 1885. John Murray, Narrative of the Cruise of H.M.S. Challenger, with a general account of the scientific results of the Expedition. Vol i. First part, pp. 219-227, pl. A. Second part, pp. 915-926, pl. N. fig. 2.

54. 1885. Ernst Haeckel, System der Acantharien. Sitzungsb. med.-nat. Gesellsch. Jena, November 13.

Since the printing of this Report began in 1884 and was far advanced in 1885, it was impossible to include the important works of Rüst and Brandt (L. N. 51, 52) in the descriptive portion, so that they are only referred to in the Introduction.

A list of absolutely worthless literature, which contains either only long known facts or false statements, and may hence be entirely neglected with advantage. Compare § 252, and also L. N. 26, p. 9.

55. 1865. Wallich, G. C., On the structure and affinities of Polycystina. Trans. Micr. Soc. Lond., vol. xiii. pp. 57-84. (Compare L. N. 26, p. 9.)

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56. 1879. Wallich, G. C., Observations on the Thalassicollidæ. Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 4, vol. iii. p. 97.

57. 1866. Stuart, Alexander, Ueber Coscinosphæra ciliosa, eine neue Radiolarie (= Globigerina echinoides!!). Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xvi. p. 328, Taf. xviii. (Compare L. N. 26, p. 9.)

58. 1870. Stuart, Alexander, Neapolitanische Studien. Göttinger Nachr., p. 99, and Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xxii. p. 290 ("Blue Siliceous Crystals" in Collozoum inerme!).

59. 1871. Macdonald, John Denis, Remarks on the Structure of Polycystina (Astromma Yelvertoni = Euchitonia Mülleri). Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 4, vol. viii. p. 226.

60. 1871. Doenitz, W., Beobachtungen über Radiolarien. Archiv f. Anat. u. Physiol., 1871, p. 71, Taf. ii. (Compare L. N. 26, p. 7.)

252. Progress of our Knowledge of the Radiolaria from 1862 to 1885.—The history of our scientific knowledge of the Radiolaria extends over about half a century (from 1834 to 1885). A historical and critical discussion of the works which appeared within the first twenty-eight years of this period (from 1834 to 1862) is contained in the historical introduction to my Monograph (L. N. 16, pp. 1-24); I shall therefore give here only a brief survey of the investigations published during the last twenty-three years (from 1862 to 1885). The most important steps in our progress during this period we owe to the following naturalists:—Cienkowski (1871), Ehrenberg (1872 and 1875), Richard Hertwig (1876 and 1879), Karl Brandt (1881 and 1885), Bütschli (1882), and Rüst (1885). To the valuable works of these authors must be added a number of smaller contributions, which are recorded in the foregoing Bibliography. Some communications from dilettanti, written with insufficient knowledge of the subject, and hence of no value, are mentioned for the sake of completeness in the "Phaulographic Appendix" (compare L. N. 55-60, also L. N. 26, p. 9).

The first important advance in our knowledge of the organisation of the Radiolaria, made after the publication of my Monograph (1862), was the demonstration of the nature of the extracapsular "yellow cells." In the year 1870 I showed that these yellow cells contain starch (L. N. 21, p. 519). I regarded them, as did all authors up to that time, as integral parts of the Radiolarian organism, and hence considered this to be multicellular; for no doubt was possible regarding the true cellular nature of these remarkable, nucleated, yellow globules, which I had thoroughly studied in 1862. It was first shown by Cienkowski in 1871 that the yellow cells of the Collodaria remain unchanged even after the death of these organisms, "that they continue to grow uninterruptedly, and eventually multiply by division" (L. N. 22, pp. 378-380, Taf. xix. figs. 30-36). Cienkowski concluded from these important observations that the yellow cells are not integral parts of the Radiolarian body, but "parasitic structures," independent, unicellular organisms, which live only as parasites in the body of the Radiolaria (compare § 90).

This important recognition underwent ten years later a further development and complete establishment by the extensive investigations of Karl Brandt (L. N. 38, 39) {clxxx}and Patrick Geddes (L. N. 42, 43). This arrangement was compared by Brandt to the remarkable symbiosis of the Algoid gonidia and Fungoid hyphæ in the organisation of the Lichens, which had been recently discovered, and since he recognised the independent nature of the yellow cells, as unicellular Algæ, in all divisions of the Radiolaria, he founded for them the genus Zooxanthella. Geddes named them Philozoon, and showed experimentally that they give out oxygen under the influence of sunlight (compare § 90). The great physiological importance of the yellow cells in the metastasis of the Radiolaria, and, when they are developed in large quantities, in the economy of marine organisms in general, has recently been insisted upon by Brandt (see § 205 and L. N. 52, pp. 65-71, 86-94).

The proof that the yellow cells do not belong to the Radiolarian organism itself, but only live parasitically in it, was a necessary preliminary to the very important step which next took place in our knowledge of the organisation of the Radiolaria. This step consisted in the demonstration that the whole body of the Radiolaria, like that of all other Protista, is only a single cell. It was Richard Hertwig who in two remarkable works (L. N. 26, 33) firmly established this fundamental theorem of the unicellular nature of the Radiolaria. In his treatise on the histology of the Radiolaria (L. N. 26, 1876) he published complete investigations into the structure and development of the Sphærozoida and Thalassicollida. Since he made use of the modern methods of histological examination, and especially of staining fluids, which he was the first to apply to the study of the Radiolaria, he was able to show that no true cells (apart from the parasitic yellow cells) are to be found in their bodies, but rather that all their morphological components are to be regarded as differentiated parts of a single true cell, and in particular that the central capsule includes a genuine nucleus.

A wider foundation for this important discovery and its applicability to all divisions of this extensive class, was given by Hertwig in a second work on the organisation of the Radiolaria (L. N. 33, 1879). Among the numerous discoveries by which this work enriched the natural history of the Radiolaria must be specially mentioned the recognition of the fundamental differences exhibited by the main divisions of the class in the structure of their central capsule. Hertwig first observed that the capsular membrane is double in the Phæodaria but single in the other Radiolaria (§ 56); the former he named "Tripylea" because he discovered in their capsular membrane a large, peculiarly constructed main opening and two small accessory openings. The Nassellaria, in which he found a single porous area at the basal pole of the main axis, with a cone of pseudopodia rising from it, he called on this account "Monopylea"; whilst the other Radiolaria, whose capsular membrane is perforated on all sides with fine pores, were termed "Peripylea." Besides the central capsule, Hertwig laid stress upon the significance of the gelatinous envelope as a constant and important constituent of the body. He also devoted attentive consideration to the morphology of the skeleton, and on the basis of certain {clxxxi}phylogenetic conclusions which he drew from it, he arrived at an improved systematic arrangement in which he distinguished six orders:—(1) Thalassicollea, (2) Sphærozoea, (3) Peripylea, (4) Acanthometrea, (5) Monopylea, (6) Tripylea. The numerous isolated discoveries with which Hertwig enriched the morphology of the Radiolaria, have been already alluded to in the appropriate paragraphs in the anatomical portion of this Introduction (see L. N. 42, pp. 340, 341).

The new and interesting group, which was thus erected into an order under the name Tripylea, I had already a year previously separated from the other Radiolaria as "Pansolenia" in my Protistenreich (L. N. 32, p. 102). Since, however, neither the three capsular openings of the Tripylea nor the skeletal tubes of the Pansolenia are present in all the families of this extensive order, I substituted in 1879 the more suitable name Phæodaria, which is applicable to all members of the group (L. N. 34). In the preliminary memoir then published regarding the Phæodaria, a New Group of Siliceous Marine Rhizopods, I distinguished four orders, ten families, and thirty-eight genera. The great majority of these new forms (among which were no less than 465 different species) were first discovered by the deep-sea investigations of the Challenger. John Murray was the first who called attention to the great abundance in the deep sea of these remarkable Rhizopods, and to the constant presence of their peculiar, dark, extracapsular pigment body (phæodium); even in 1876 he described a portion of them as Challengerida (L. N. 27, p. 536; L. N. 53, p. 226). The earliest observations on the Phæodaria were made at Messina in 1859, where I examined five genera of this remarkable group alive (compare p. 1522 and L. N. 16).

By the discovery that the Phæodaria, although differing in important respects from the other Radiolaria, still conform to the definition of the class, a new and extensive series of forms was added to this latter, and by their closer investigation a fresh source of interesting morphological problems was disclosed. In other groups, however, morphology was advanced by comparative anatomical studies. In addition to the smaller contributions of various authors, mentioned in the foregoing bibliography, I may specially refer to the valuable Beiträge zur Kenntniss der Radiolarien-Skelete, insbesondere der der Cyrtida by O. Bütschli (L. N. 40, 1882). On the basis of careful comparative anatomical studies, investigations into the skeletal structure of a number of fossil Cyrtoidea and critical application of the recently published researches of Ehrenberg into the Polycystina of Barbados (L. N. 25), Bütschli attempted to derive the complicated relations of the Monopylean skeletons phylogenetically from a simple primitive form,—the primary sagittal ring. Even if this attempt did not actually solve the very difficult morphological problem in question, still the critical and synthetic mode in which it was carried out deserves full recognition, and furnishes the proof that the comparative anatomy of the skeleton in the Radiolaria not less than in the Vertebrata, is a most interesting and fruitful field of phylogenetic investigation. A {clxxxii}further demonstration of this was furnished by Bütschli in the general account of the organisation of the Radiolaria which he published in 1882 in Bronn's Klassen und Ordnungen des Thierreichs (L. N. 41).

In our knowledge of the developmental history of these Protista the last two decades have witnessed less progress than in their comparative anatomy. The most important advance in this direction has been the proof that in all the main groups of the class the contents of the central capsule are used in the formation of swarm-spores. The movements of these zoospores in the central capsule had indeed been observed by several previous authors in the case of the Spumellaria and Acantharia (L. N. 10, 13, 16; compare also § 142, Note A). The origin of the flagellate spores from the contents of the central capsule and their peculiar constitution were, however, first described fully by Cienkowski in 1871 (L. N. 22, p. 372). Soon after this, R. Hertwig discovered that in the social Radiolaria (Polycyttaria or Sphærozoea) two different forms of zoospores are formed, one with, the other without crystals, and that the latter are also divided into macrospores and microspores (compare L. N. 26, and § 142). Recently this sexual differentiation has been shown by Karl Brandt to exist in all the groups of Sphærozoea, and its regular interchange with the formation of crystal-spores has been interpreted as a true "alternation of generations" (compare L. N. 52 and also § 216). The other forms of development also, especially reproduction by cell-division (§ 213) and gemmation (§ 214), have been elucidated by the recent investigations of the same author.

The palæontology of the Radiolaria has of late made important and interesting advances. Until ten years ago fossil remains of this class were known exclusively from the Tertiary period; almost the only source of our information was to be found in the researches of Ehrenberg, commenced in 1838, continued in his Mikrogeologie in 1854, and concluded in his last work (L. N. 25) published in 1875 (compare L. N. 16, pp. 3-9, 191-193). In the year 1876 a number of Mesozoic Radiolaria from the chalk were described by Zittel (L. N. 28), and afterwards others from the Jura by Dunikowski (L. N. 44). That fossil Radiolaria occur in Mesozoic formations, especially in the Jura, as well preserved and as abundantly as in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados, was shown in 1883 by Rüst (L. N. 48). By the examination of numerous thin sections he discovered that in all the main divisions of the Jurassic formation (Lias, Dogger, Malm) there are distributed jaspers, flints, cherts, and other quartzites, which consist largely of the siliceous shells of Polycystina; the same is true also of many Coprolites found in the Jura. The full account of these and the descriptions and figures of 234 Jurassic species, distributed in 76 genera, are contained in the Beiträge zur Kenntniss der fossilen Radiolarien aus Gesteinen des Jura (L. N. 51, 1885). But even in the older rocks, the Trias, the Permian, and Carboniferous systems, and even as far downwards as the Silurian and Cambrian formations, Rüst has recently shown the existence of fossil Radiolaria, {clxxxiii}and thus increased the known period of the developmental history of the class by many millions of years (§ 244).

The great significance of the Radiolaria in geology and palæontology has been brought into new light not only by these extensive discoveries, but also by the important relations which have been shown to exist between the Radiolarian rocks and the deep-sea deposits of the present day. In this direction the wonderful discoveries of the Challenger, and especially the investigation of the deep-sea deposits by Wyville Thomson (L. N. 31) and John Murray (L. N. 27), have furnished us with new and valuable information (compare §§ 236-239, and §§ 245-250). The Tertiary Polycystine formations of Barbados and the Nicobar Islands, with which we have been acquainted for the last forty years, as also the Mesozoic Radiolarian quartzes, which have only recently been made known to us from the Jura, are ascertained to be fossil representatives of the same deep-sea deposits which now occur in the form of Radiolarian ooze (§ 237), and to some extent also of Globigerina ooze and red clay (§§ 238, 239), on the bottom of the ocean, at depths of from 2000 to 4500 fathoms.

These investigations into fossil Radiolaria and their comparison with recent deep-sea forms have a further general significance, inasmuch as the identity of many living and fossil species from the Tertiary formation has been shown beyond all doubt. In this direction the numerous measurements and accurate comparisons which I have made during the last ten years of the abyssal forms in the Challenger collection, and of fossil species from Barbados and Caltanisetta, have brought to light many important facts. In this I had the able assistance of my friend, Dr. Reinhold Teuscher (compare § 250, and p. 1760). Further valuable contributions in this direction are found in the careful observations and comparative measurements recently published by Emil Stöhr (L. N. 35, 1880), regarding the Radiolarian fauna of the Tripoli of Grotte in the province of Girgenti, Sicily. From these it appears that the number of Miocene species which are still extant, is much greater than would appear from the results of Ehrenberg.

Ehrenberg himself, towards the end of his long and laborious life, collected the results of the systematic and palæontological researches, which he had begun thirty-seven years previously (L. N. 16, pp. 3-12) into the Polycystina, in two large works (L. N. 24, 25). The first treatise (L. N. 24, 1872) contains the Mikrogeologische Studien über das Kleinste Leben der Meeres-Tiefgründe aller Zonen und dessen geologischen Einfluss, with a list of 279 Polycystina observed by him from the deep-sea, as well as figures of 127 species. The second work (L. N. 25, 1875) contains the Fortsetzung der Mikrogeologischen Studien, mit specieller Rücksicht auf den Polycystinen-Mergel von Barbados; the list of fossil Polycystina observed by him includes 325 species, of which 26 are still extant; 282 of them are figured on the thirty plates accompanying the memoir. By means of these numerous figures, as well as by the appended systematic and chorological tables, Ehrenberg furnished a welcome {clxxxiv}supplement to the numerous communications regarding the Polycystina, which he had made to the Berlin Academy since 1838, and which he had published in his Mikrogeologie in 1854. It will always be the merit of this zealous and indefatigable microscopist that he first called attention to the great wealth of forms existing in this class; he separated systematically about 500 species, and published drawings of about 400; in addition to which he was the first to lay stress upon the great chorological and geological importance of the Radiolaria.

With these systematic and descriptive, chorological and palæontological works, however, which relate exclusively to the Polycystina, the merits of the famous naturalist of Berlin are exhausted as regards this class of animals. Of the organisation of the Radiolaria, Gottfried Ehrenberg remained entirely ignorant up till his death in 1876. All that a number of famous naturalists had observed during a quarter of a century as to the structure and life-history of the Radiolaria, all the important discoveries of Huxley (1851), Johannes Müller (1858), Claparède (1858), Cienkowski (1871), and many others (L. N. 1-22), and all that I had published in my Monograph (1862) on the basis of three years' study of their anatomy and physiology—all this Ehrenberg ignored, or rather, he regarded it all as worthless rubbish of science, as a chaos of devious errors, resting upon incomplete observations and false conclusions. His strange "special considerations regarding the Polycystina" (L. N. 24, pp. 339-346) and the general "concluding remarks" (L. N. 25, pp. 146-147) leave no room for doubt on this point. Ehrenberg indeed doubted to the last whether any observer had seen living Radiolaria at all (L. N. 25, p. 108).

The invincible obstinacy with which Ehrenberg maintained his preconceived opinion of the high organisation of the Radiolaria, and entirely ignored the contrary observations of other naturalists, is explained by the consistency with which he held to the end the "principle peculiar to himself of the universally equal development of the animal kingdom" (L. N. 16, p. 7). From the complicated arrangement of their siliceous shells he concluded that the animals inhabiting them must possess a structure correspondingly complex, and nearly related to that of the Echinodermata (Holothuria). Like all other animals the Radiolaria must possess systems of organs for locomotion, sensation, nutrition, circulation, and reproduction. Whilst Ehrenberg originally interpreted the Polycystina as siliceous Infusoria polygastrica, and regarded them as compound Arcellina, he afterwards classed them sometimes with the Echinodermata (Holothuria), sometimes with the Bryozoa, sometimes with the Oscillaria (see L. N. 41, p. 336). Although a decided opponent of the cell-theory he called them "multicellular animalcules" (Polycystina), interpreting the pores of the siliceous shell as cells. To-day the opposite term (Monocystina) might be adopted to express their unicellular organisation. It was a remarkable irony of fate that in the self-same year (1838) in which Schwann of Berlin made by his foundation of the cell theory the greatest advance in the whole {clxxxv}of Biological Science, that Ehrenberg, all his life the most zealous opponent of that theory, published his great work on the Infusoria, and at the same time established the "family of multicellular animalcules or Polycystina" (L. N. 16, p. 4).

The "short systematic survey of the genera of cellular animalcules" given by Ehrenberg in 1875 (L. N. 25, p. 157), is only a new edition, increased by sixteen genera, of his first systematic arrangement of the Polycystina of 1847 (L. N. 4, p. 53). Since I have already given a full discussion of this in my Monograph (L. N. 16, pp. 214-219), I need only here remark that a correct understanding of his very inadequate generic diagnoses is only possible by the aid of his figures. Relying upon these I have retained almost all Ehrenberg's genera, although entirely new definitions of most of them have been necessary.

The same is true also of the two orders which Ehrenberg distinguished in his class of "Zellenthierchen." The first order is constituted by his "Netzkörbchen" (Monodictya or Nassellaria) formerly known as "Polycystina solitaria"; they include our Cyrtoidea, the greater part of Hertwig's Monopylea. Ehrenberg's second order is the "Schaumsternchen" (Polydictya or Spumellaria), previously called "Polycystina composita"; they include the Peripylea of Hertwig, as well as the Spyridina (our Spyroidea), which belong properly to the Nassellaria. Although Ehrenberg's statements regarding the organisation of both these orders were quite erroneous, and his knowledge even of the structure of their shells very defective, I still thought it advisable to retain his names for the groups, since they constituted his one successful effort in the systematic treatment of the Radiolaria (compare L. N. 41, p. 336).

The sketch of a systematic arrangement of the Radiolaria (L. N. 37), which I published in 1881 on the basis of the study of the Challenger Radiolaria, resembles, in respect of seven orders being distinguished, the new system which R. Hertwig founded in 1879, in consequence of the variations which he discovered in the structural relations of the central capsule (L. N. 33, p. 133). It differs, however, inasmuch as his Sphærozoea (my Polycyttaria) are here divided into two orders, Symbelaria (Collosphærida) and Syncollaria (Sphærozoida). In that sketch too I separated for the first time the two subclasses Holotrypasta (Porulosa) and Merotrypasta (Osculosa). The fifteen families established by Hertwig were then raised to twenty-four. The six hundred and thirty genera, which I then distinguished, are still for the most part retained, some, however, in a restricted sense, or with amended definitions.

The differential characters of the orders and families of the Radiolaria, given in the Prodromus in 1881, were amended in a further communication which I gave in 1883 regarding the orders of the Radiolaria (L. N. 46, p. 17). There I reduced the seven orders to four, the structural relations of the central capsule being precisely the same in the Polycyttaria and Collodaria as in the Peripylea. The survey of the affinities of the class was thus rendered much simpler and clearer, and the {clxxxvi}hypothetical genealogical tree, which I then published, has been still further carried out in Chapter VI. of the present Introduction (see §§ 153-200).

253. General Survey of the Growth of our Systematic Acquaintance with the Radiolaria from 1834 to 1885.

1834. Meyen (L. N. 1) describes 2 genera and species of Collodaria:—Sphærozoum fuscum and Physematium atlanticum.

1838. Ehrenberg (L. N. 2) founds the family Polycystina upon 3 fossil genera (with 6 species):—Lithocampe, Cornutella, Haliomma.

1847. Ehrenberg (L. N. 4) publishes his preliminary communications regarding the fossil Polycystina of Barbados and distinguishes 282 species, distributed in 44 genera and 7 families. In the tabular view of the genera he distinguishes two orders:—I. Solitaria—(1) Halicalyptrina, (2) Lithochytrina, (3) Eucyrtidina; and II. Composita—(4) Spyridina, (5) Calodictya, (6) Haliommatina, (7) Lithocyclidina (compare L. N. 16, pp. 214-219).

1851. Huxley (L. N. 5) gives the first accurate account of living Radiolaria, and describes 2 species of the genus Thalassicolla (nucleata and punctata); under the latter are included 4 genera of Sphærozoea:—Collozoum, Sphærozoum, Collosphæra, Siphonosphæra (compare L. N. 16, pp. 12-14).

1854. Ehrenberg (L. N. 6) publishes in his Mikrogeologie, figures of seventy-two species of fossil Polycystina (without descriptions).

1855. Johannes Müller (L. N. 8, p. 248) describes the first Acanthometra, and elucidates its affinity to Huxley's Thalassicolla and Ehrenberg's Polycystina.

1858. Johannes Müller (L. N. 12) establishes the new group Radiolaria as a special order of the Rhizopoda, and includes in it the Thalassicolla, Polycystina, and Acanthometra as closely related families. He opposes these radiate Rhizopoda to the Polythalamia, and describes 50 species observed by him living in the Mediterranean, these he arranges in 20 genera, of which 10 are new. The figures are contained in eleven plates (see L. N. 16, pp. 22-24).

1858. Claparède (L. N. 14) describes the first Plectoidean (Plagiacantha arachnoides) and two species of Acanthometra, which he had observed living in Norway (see L. N. 16, p. 18).

1860. Ehrenberg (L. N. 4) gives a short diagnosis of 22 new genera of Polycystina, based on the investigation of numerous deep-sea species brought up by Brooke from the depths of the Pacific Ocean. The number of his genera is thus increased to 66 (compare L. N. 16, pp. 10, 11).

1862. Ernst Haeckel (L. N. 16) embraces in his Monograph of the Radiolaria all the species hitherto known either by figures or descriptions, and arranges them in 15 families and 113 genera; of which latter 46 are new. The number of new species observed living amounts to 144. In a "survey of the Radiolarian fauna of Messina" (p. 565) he records 72 genera and 169 species. Most of these are figured in the accompanying atlas of thirty-five plates.

1862. Bury (L. N. 17) gives in an atlas of twenty-five plates, photographed from drawings, the figures of numerous fossil Polycystina of Barbados (without descriptions), of which many are new species overlooked by Ehrenberg (compare § 242, above).

1872. Ehrenberg (L. N. 24) gives a list of names (without description) of all the Polycystina observed by him from the bottom of the sea, 279 species, of which 127 are figured on twelve plates.

1875. Ehrenberg (L. N. 25) gives a list of names of all the fossil Polycystina observed by him (from Barbados, the Nicobar Islands and Sicily), 326 species, of which 282 are figured (compare § 242 above). In a new "Systematic Survey of the Genera" the number of these is given as 63. The 7 families are the same as given in 1847 (see above), as also the two orders (Nassellaria = Solitaria, Spumellaria = Composita).

1876. Zittel (L. N. 29) describes the first fossil Radiolaria from the chalk (6 species) and establishes the new Cyrtoid genus Dictyomitra.

1876. John Murray (L. N. 27) establishes the new family Challengerida, and figures 6 new generic types of Phæodaria.

1879. Richard Hertwig (L. N. 33) first describes the fundamental differences in the structure of the central capsule, and in accordance with them divides the Radiolaria into six orders:—(1) Thalassicollea, (2) Sphærozoea, (3) Peripylea, (4) Acanthometrea, (5) Monopylea, (6) Tripylea (p. 133). These are subdivided into 18 families, and their phylogenetic affinities discussed (p. 137). On the ten plates, several new species from Messina are figured, among them the types of several new genera (Cystidium, Cœlacantha, Echinosphæra) (compare § 252).

1879. Ernst Haeckel (L. N. 34) founds the order Phæodaria as a "new group of marine siliceous Rhizopods," and distinguishes in it 4 suborders, 10 families and 38 genera.

1880. Emil Stöhr (L. N. 35) describes the Miocene "Radiolarian fauna of the tripoli from Grotte in Sicily," 118 species, of which 78 are new; among them is the new genus Ommatodiscus, the type of a new family, Ommatodiscida. The new species are figured on seven plates.

1880. Dante Pantanelli (L. N. 36) describes 30 species of fossil Polycystina from the jaspers of Tuscany, which he regarded as Eocene, but which were probably of Jurassic origin (compare § 243, note B, above).

1881. Ernst Haeckel (L. N. 37) publishes a "Sketch of a classification of the Radiolaria on the basis of the study of the Challenger Collection," and distinguishes in his "conspectus ordinum" (p. 421) 2 subclasses and 7 orders, and in the "prodromus systematis Radiolarium" (pp. 423-472) 24 families with 630 genera, among which are more than 2000 new species.

1882. Bütschli (L. N. 40) on the basis of studies of the fossil Monopylea of Barbados, investigates the "mutual relations of the Acanthodesmida, Zygocyrtida and Cyrtida," and gives a critical revision of the genera of these "Cricoidea;" a number of new species are described and figured (Tafs. xxxii., xxxiii.), and some new genera of Stichocyrtida established (Lithostrobus, Lithomitra, &c.).

1882. Dunikowski (L. N. 44) describes 18 new fossil Polycystina from the lower lias of the Salzburg Alps, among them the types of 3 new genera (Ellipsoxiphus, Triactinosphæra, and Spongocyrtis).

{clxxxviii}

1883. Ernst Haeckel (L. N. 46) revises the 4 orders and 32 families of Radiolaria, and gives more accurate definitions of them, as well as of the 2 subclasses (I. Holotrypasta = Acantharia and Spumellaria; II. Merotrypasta = Nassellaria and Phæodaria).

1885. D. Rüst (L. N. 51) describes 234 new species of fossil Radiolaria from the Jura, and illustrates them by twenty plates. Among them are 103 Spumellaria, 130 Nassellaria, and 1 Phæodaria; these are contained in 35 genera, of which 20 belong to the Porulosa, and 15 to the Osculosa.

Legion.	Sublegion.	Order.									Figured on Plates.
I. Legion Spumellaria (Porulosa peripylea)		I. Collodaria (Spumellaria palliata)		01. Colloidea	2	6	36	9	27	0	A	E	1, 3
02. Beloidea	2	8	56	9	47	0	A	D	2, 4
II. Sphærellaria (Spumellaria loricata)		03. Sphæroidea	6	107	660	105	555	66	A	B		5-8 11-30
04. Prunoidea	7	53	280	35	245	36	B	B		16, 17 39, 40
05. Discoidea	6	91	503	126	376	102	B	A		31-38 41-48
06. Larcoidea	9	51	260	8	252	0	E	B		9, 10 49, 50

II. Legion Acantharia (Porulosa actipylea)		III. Acanthometra (Acantharia palliata)		07. Actinelida	3	6	22	6	16	0	E	E	129 (figs. 1-3)
08. Acanthonida	3	21	138	50	88	0	A	C	130-132
IV. Acanthophracta (Acantharia loricata)		09. Sphærophracta	3	6	22	6	16	0	E	E	133-138
10. Prunophracta	3	11	63	5	58	0	D	B	139, 140
III. Legion Nassellaria (Osculosa monopylea)		V. Plectellaria (Nassellaria palliata)		11. Nassoidea	1	2	5	1	4	0	E	E	91 (fig. 1)
12. Plectoidea	2	17	61	5	56	0	D	C	91 (figs. 2-12)
13. Stephoidea	4	40	205	14	191	17	C	B		81, 82 92-94
VI. Cyrtellaria (Nassellaria loricata)		14. Spyroidea	4	45	239	51	188	53	C	A	83-90
15. Botryodea	3	10	55	15	40	10	E	C	96
16. Cyrtoidea	12	160	1122	328	794	250	C	A	51-80

IV. Legion Phæodaria (Osculosa cannopylea)		VII. Phæocystina (Phæodaria palliata)		17. Phæocystina	3	15	112	30	82	24	C	B	101-105
VIII. Phæocoscina (Phæodaria loricata)		18. Phæosphæria	4	22	121	5	116	0	C	A	106-112
19. Phæogromia	5	27	159	5	154	0	C	A		99, 100 113-120
20. Phæoconchia	3	20	73	4	69	0	D	B	121-128
		Total,	85	739	4318	810	3508	558	...	...	140

Legion.	Order.
I. Legion Spumellaria (Porulosa peripylea)	I. Collodaria (Spumellaria palliata)	01. Colloidea
02. Beloidea
II. Sphærellaria (Spumellaria loricata)	03. Sphæroidea
04. Prunoidea
05. Discoidea
06. Larcoidea
II. Legion Acantharia (Porulosa actipylea)	III. Acanthometra (Acantharia palliata)	07. Actinelida
08. Acanthonida
IV. Acanthophracta (Acantharia loricata)	09. Sphærophracta
10. Prunophracta
III. Legion Nassellaria (Osculosa monopylea)	V. Plectellaria (Nassellaria palliata)	11. Nassoidea
12. Plectoidea
13. Stephoidea
VI. Cyrtellaria (Nassellaria loricata)	14. Spyroidea
15. Botryodea
16. Cyrtoidea
IV. Legion Phæodaria (Osculosa cannopylea)	VII. Phæocystina (Phæodaria palliata)	17. Phæocystina
VIII. Phæocoscina (Phæodaria loricata)	18. Phæosphæria
19. Phæogromia
20. Phæoconchia

									Figured on Plates.
01.	2	6	36	9	27	0	A	E	1, 3
02.	2	8	56	9	47	0	A	D	2, 4
03.	6	107	660	105	555	66	A	B	5-8, 11-30
04.	7	53	280	35	245	36	B	B	16, 17, 39, 40
05.	6	91	503	126	376	102	B	A	31-38, 41-48
06.	9	51	260	8	252	0	E	B	9, 10, 49, 50

07.	3	6	22	6	16	0	E	E	129 (figs. 1-3)
08.	3	21	138	50	88	0	A	C	130-132
09.	3	6	22	6	16	0	E	E	133-138
10.	3	11	63	5	58	0	D	B	139, 140
11.	1	2	5	1	4	0	E	E	91 (fig. 1)
12.	2	17	61	5	56	0	D	C	91 (figs. 2-12)
13.	4	40	205	14	191	17	C	B	81, 82, 92-94
14.	4	45	239	51	188	53	C	A	83-90
15.	3	10	55	15	40	10	E	C	96
16.	12	160	1122	328	794	250	C	A	51-80

17.	3	15	112	30	82	24	C	B	101-105
18.	4	22	121	5	116	0	C	A	106-112
19.	5	27	159	5	154	0	C	A	99, 100, 113-120
20.	3	20	73	4	69	0	D	B	121-128
T.	85	739	4318	810	3508	558	...	...	140

Note.—In the tenth and eleventh columns the relative abundance of each order at or near the surface and near the bottom is approximately indicated by the letters A-E, which have the following significance:—A, abundant; B, very numerous; C, many (medium quantity); D, few; E, very few.

SYSTEMATIC PART.

Class RADIOLARIA.

Radiolaria, Johannes Müller, 1858.

Rhizopoda radiaria, Johannes Müller, 1858.

Polycystina (pro parte), Ehrenberg, 1838.

Echinocystida, Claparède, 1858.

Rhizopoda capsularia, Haeckel, 1861.

Cytophora, Haeckel, 1862.

Definition of the Class:—Rhizopoda with unicellular body, divided by a porous membrane into an internal or intracapsular part (with nucleus), and an external or extracapsular part (with calymma); propagating by flagellated spores.

The Radiolaria or Capsulate Rhizopoda, first constituted by Johannes Müller in the year 1858 as a separate group of the Rhizopoda, form a peculiar class of the Protista, or unicellular organisms. This class is exclusively marine, and has in general the characteristic organisation of the Rhizopoda, with the development of numerous pseudopodia from the surface of the cell; but it differs from all other Rhizopoda in the possession of a peculiar membrane, dividing the cell-body into two different parts; the central capsule or the internal part with the nucleus, and the external part or extracapsulum with the calymma; propagation by flagellated spores produced in the central capsule; the sarcode or the protoplasm of both parts communicates by fine pores, piercing the separating membrane, which is called the capsule-membrane.

The Central Capsule or the inner part of the Radiolarian body is constantly composed of three essential parts, viz.:—

Besides these constant and essential elements, the central capsule contains very commonly (but not constantly) some other enclosed structures, viz.:—

The Extracapsulum, or the outer part of the Radiolarian body is also constantly composed of three essential elements,—

Besides these three constant and essential elements, the extracapsulum contains very commonly (but not constantly) some other enclosed structures, viz.:—

The Nucleus of the Radiolaria is a large true simple cell-nucleus, originally a solid spherical, roundish or longish body of nuclein. It is placed either in the centre of the capsule (in most Peripylea) or excentrically (in most other Radiolaria). Originally solid, the nucleus is commonly differentiated later into an outer dense nuclear-membrane and an inner softer or fluid content; either with one single nucleolus or with a variable number of nucleoli. Originally always simple, the nucleus becomes afterwards constantly divided into numerous small nuclei, each of which, together with a part of the surrounding {3}protoplasm, forms a vibratile-spore or "flagellate-spore." This division in the Acantharia and in the social (or colonial) Peripylea begins very early, in all other Radiolaria much later, immediately before propagation.

The Endoplasm or "endosarc," or "intracapsular protoplasm" or "inner sarcode," in all Radiolaria originally fills that space within the capsule, which is not taken up by the nucleus. It seems to be employed mainly for the purpose of propagation, becoming divided earlier or later into numerous small particles, each of which surrounds a small particle of the nucleus and forms together with it a flagellate-spore. Besides this the endoplasm of the Radiolaria seems to have a great significance for the nutrition, mainly for the interchange of materials. It becomes very often vacuolate or alveolate, filled with smaller or larger spherical drops of fluid; it produces very commonly smaller fat-granules or larger oil-globules, and further pigment-granules of different colours, more rarely crystals and other peculiar enclosed parts.

The Membrane or "capsule-membrane" is the most typical and characteristic part of the body of a Radiolarian, sufficient of itself to separate this class from all other Rhizopoda. At the same time, by its different shape it presents the best means for the systematic distinction of the four subclasses or "legions" of the class. The membrane is composed of a special organic matter (probably nearly related to chitin) and combines density with elasticity to a high degree. Observed with a high power of the microscope its margin (or section) appears commonly simple-edged, but often in larger forms distinctly double-edged.

The legion Phæodaria is distinguished by a double membrane (the thinner inner and thicker outer membranes being separated by an interval); in the three other legions it is simple. The membrane completely separates the intracapsular from the extracapsular body, both communicating only by certain pores or openings in the membrane. With reference to this important communication, the whole class can be divided into two subclasses, Holotrypasta and Merotrypasta: the Holotrypasta contain the Peripylea and Actipylea, in which the membrane is pierced by innumerable very small pores; the Merotrypasta consist of the Monopylea and the Cannopylea, in which the membrane exhibits only one large main opening, distinguished in the former by a peculiar "porous area," in the latter by an "osculum" or a prolonged tubule.

The Calymma or "jelly-veil" is the most characteristic part of the extracapsular body in all Radiolaria; in the majority of the class it is the most voluminous part of the whole body, being much more voluminous than all the other parts taken together. The calymma is a structureless, clear, and transparent jelly-envelope which always includes the whole central capsule and often also the whole extracapsular skeleton. Owing to the high degree of its consistence, this jelly-veil takes a very important part in the formation of the extracapsular skeleton, furnishing the matrix for the deposition of its tangential parts.

The Matrix or the "maternal tissue of the pseudopodia" is formed in all Radiolaria by the thin layer of exoplasm or of extracapsular sarcode, which immediately envelops the central capsule and is itself enclosed by the calymma. This continuous sarcode-cover of the capsule communicates by its pores or openings with the endoplasm or the intracapsular sarcode; whilst from its outer surface arise the pseudopodia. The morphological signification of the matrix is very small, but the physiological importance is very great, for it seems to be the chief organ of many vital functions.

The Pseudopodia or the very fine, long, thread-like filaments of exoplasm arise in all Radiolaria in very great numbers from the surface of the matrix, and exhibit in general the same characteristic shape as in the other Rhizopoda. Their inner or proximal part is enclosed within the jelly-veil or calymma, whilst their outer or distal part floats freely in the sea-water. Their special motions and modifications exhibit considerable variations in different groups, their tendency to ramify, anastomose, and form networks being in some cases very small, in others very great. Also the characteristic motion of granules in the pseudopodia is very different. In general those most important exoplasmatic filaments serve as organs both for the vegetative functions of nutrition, and for the animal functions of motion and sensation.

The class Radiolaria can be divided according to its varying structure into four different legions or subclasses, the characters of which are the following:—

I. PERIPYLEA or SPUMELLARIA.

A. Collodaria (without lattice-shell).

B. Sphærellaria (with lattice-shell).

II. ACTIPYLEA or ACANTHARIA.

A. Acanthometra (without complete lattice-shell).

B. Acanthophracta (with complete lattice-shell).

III. MONOPYLEA or NASSELLARIA.

A. Plectellaria (without complete lattice-shell).

B. Cyrtellaria (with complete lattice-shell).

IV. CANNOPYLEA or PHÆODARIA.

A. Phæocystina (without lattice-shell).

B. Phæocoscina (with lattice-shell).

Synopsis of the four Subclasses or Legions of Radiolaria.

Legion I. SPUMELLARIA,

Spumellaria (exclusis Spyridinis), Ehrenberg, 1875.

Peripylea (inclusis Thalassicollis et Sphærozois), Hertwig, 1879.

Peripylaria (inclusis Collodariis et Polycyttariis), Haeckel, 1881.

Definition.—Radiolaria with simple membrane of the central capsule, which is everywhere perforated by innumerable very fine pores. Extracapsulum without phæodium. Skeleton wanting or siliceous. Fundamental form originally spherical.

The legion Spumellaria vel Peripylea, in the extent here defined, was constituted by me in 1883 in my paper on Die Ordnungen der Radiolarien.^[2] I propose to retain for this legion either the name Spumellaria of Ehrenberg (1875) or Peripylea of Hertwig (1879), although both groups have not quite the same extension. We exclude from the Spumellaria the Spyridina (united with them by Ehrenberg) and include the Collodaria. With the Peripylea of Hertwig we unite his Thalassicollea and Sphærozoea. To avoid any confusion it would perhaps be better to name this legion "Peripylaria."

The Spumellaria agree with the Acantharia in the structure of the simple capsule-membrane, which is perforated by numerous small pores (but devoid of the large main opening, which the Nassellaria and Phæodaria possess), whence we unite both the former as Holotrypasta, both the latter as Merotrypasta.

The difference between the two legions of Holotrypasta is determined by the skeleton, which in the Spumellaria is either siliceous or wanting, whilst in the Acantharia it consists of the peculiar organic substance, acanthin.

The legion Spumellaria is by far the largest and most important of the four legions of Radiolaria, as well with respect to the number of different forms, as to the enormous masses of individuals, which we encounter living and fossil. We distinguish in this legion not less than thirty-two different families, three hundred and sixteen genera, and more than seventeen hundred species.

The classification of this large group requires for its better comprehension a careful division into larger and smaller groups. We divide it therefore first of all into two orders, Collodaria and Sphærellaria, as proposed in the paper mentioned above.^[3]

The Collodaria have no perfect latticed skeleton, and comprise two suborders or sections: in the Colloidea the skeleton is entirely wanting, in the Beloidea it is represented by a variable number of siliceous needles or spicules, scattered in the calymma around the central capsule.

The Sphærellaria differ from the Collodaria in the possession of a perfect siliceous skeleton, which is originally a latticed spherical shell, enveloping the central capsule. By modification of this fenestrated sphere arises an enormous mass of different forms, which we dispose in twenty-eight families, and these in four larger groups, suborders or sections,—Sphæroidea, Prunoidea, Discoidea, and Larcoidea.

The Sphæroidea, the common ancestral group of the Sphærellaria, possess a skeleton which is either a simple fenestrated sphere, or composed of two or more concentric latticed spheres, which are united by radial beams; more rarely it becomes more or less spongy.

The Prunoidea are derived from the Sphæroidea by prolongation of the latticed sphere in one axis; the skeleton therefore becomes here ellipsoidal or cylindrical (often with annular transversal constrictions).

The Discoidea on the contrary must be derived from the Sphæroidea by shortening in one axis; here therefore the fenestrated shell becomes more or less lenticular or iscoidal (often with radial spines or arms in the equatorial plane, on the circular margin).

The Larcoidea, the fourth section, differ from the three foregoing sections by the different growth of the shell in three different dimensions of space; therefore here the fenestrated shell becomes "lentelliptical," or a "triaxial ellipsoid," its length, breadth, and height being different.

The Skeleton consists in all Spumellaria either of pure silica or of a peculiar silicate. The siliceous bars and beams constituting it are invariably solid, as also in the Nassellaria, never hollow, as in the Phæodaria. Never is the skeleton composed of acanthin, as in all Acantharia. Whilst in the first order of Spumellaria, Collodaria, the form of the spicula, or the scattered needles, composing the skeleton, is very simple, never latticed, in the second order, the Sphærellaria, it is constantly latticed or fenestrated, often also spongy.

The geometrical fundamental form of the lattice-shell in the Sphærellaria is originally spherical (homaxon), as preserved in all Sphæroidea; in the Prunoidea and Discoidea it becomes monaxon, with one single axis (prolonged in the former, shortened in the latter); in the Larcoidea it becomes triaxon, by different growth in three principal axes, perpendicular one to another. The further development of radial parts of the skeleton in these three axes is very important for the "promorphology" of the Radiolaria.

The Malacoma, or the whole soft body of the Spumellaria as opposed to the skeleton, exhibits some differences of structure in two different groups, which were separated formerly (1862) as Monocyttaria and Polycyttaria, corresponding to the "Radiolaria monozoa and polyzoa" of Johannes Müller (1858).

The Monocyttaria (or the Spumellaria solitaria) live isolated as single cells—like {8}all other Radiolaria—and are never aggregated in colonies; the calymma includes one single central capsule, and this again one central nucleus, which does not become divided until full maturity.

The Polycyttaria on the contrary (or the Spumellaria socialia) live aggregated in large colonies; the calymma includes a variable number of associated central capsules and each of these commonly one central oil-globule, whilst the original simple nucleus commonly becomes very early divided into numerous small nuclei.

The Nucleus of the Spumellaria is originally constantly central, placed quite in the centre of the concentric capsule, and it retains this central position in all Monocyttaria or solitary Peripylea; whereas in the Polycyttaria—in consequence of its early division—its place is commonly taken by a central oil-globule. Whilst the numerous nuclei of the latter are very small, the single nucleus of the former is comparatively large, extremely large (more than a millimeter in diameter) in some gigantic Collodaria.

The Endoplasm or the intracapsular sarcode exhibits in the greater number of Spumellaria a more or less distinct radial striation. It encloses a great variety of different parts; vacuoles, oil-globules, pigment-granules, crystals, &c.

The Membrane of the capsule in all Spumellaria is simple (never double as in the Phæodaria) and everywhere equally perforated by innumerable small pores; in the thick, double-edged membrane of many large Collodaria these pores appear (in the optical section of the capsule-wall) as distinct fine radial canals, very densely and regularly disposed.

The Central Capsule in the Spumellaria is originally a geometrical sphere, and this simple globular form is preserved in all Sphæroidea, and in the greatest part of Colloidea and Beloidea. By prolongation of one axis the form becomes ellipsoidal (or even cylindrical) in the Prunoidea, and in some few forms of Colloidea. By shortening of one axis it becomes lenticular (or even discoidal) in the Discoidea, and in some few forms of Colloidea. By unequal growth in three different axes, perpendicular one to another, the capsule becomes lentelliptical in all Larcoidea. Very rarely the capsule assumes in the Spumellaria a polyhedral or irregular (sometimes even amœboid) form, only in a few Colloidea.

The Calymma, or the jelly-veil including the central capsule, is very voluminous in many Spumellaria of gigantic size, mainly in the large Colloidea, and in all Polycyttaria or social Radiolaria. It includes here a considerable number of large vacuoles or "alveoli." The calymma never exhibits in this legion the dark voluminous phæodium, possessed by all Phæodaria.

Xanthellæ or "zooxanthellæ" are numerous in the calymma of most Spumellaria, but by no means constant; they are very variable in number and size.

The Matrix, placed between the calymma and central capsule, is, in the majority of the Spumellaria, a rather thick layer of granular exoplasm.

The Pseudopodia arising from it are very numerous, equally disposed over the whole {9}surface, and are in general rather fluid, exhibiting a considerable tendency to ramify, anastomose, and form networks. The movement of granules is commonly lively. In the Polycyttaria all capsules of one colony or "cœnobium" are connected by the dense variable network of anastomosing pseudopodia.

Synopsis of the Orders and Suborders of Spumellaria.

Order I. COLLODARIA, Haeckel, 1881.

Collodaria, Haeckel, Prodromus, 1881, p. 469.

Collida et Sphærozoida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., pp. 246, 522.

The order Collodaria, the first order of Radiolaria, comprises all those Spumellaria in which the skeleton is either entirely wanting, or represented by numerous single, solid, siliceous needles or spicules, loosely scattered in the calymma around the central capsule. Never in this order is there any trace of the latticed or fenestrated shell, which characterises the second order, Sphærellaria. The skeleton exhibits no trace of phylogenetic connection in the two orders.

In my monograph (1862) two families appertaining to this order are described, the Collida (p. 244) and the Sphærozoida (p. 521). Both families contain forms with and without a skeleton. Of the solitary or monozous Collida the Thalassicollida are devoid of a skeleton, whilst the Thalassosphærida are provided with a skeleton. Of the social or polyzous Sphærozoida the Collozoida are without a skeleton, the Rhaphidozoida provided with one. As the special form in both skeletophorous subfamilies is exactly the same, I prefer now to associate them in the suborder Beloidea, and to oppose them to the other two skeletonless subfamilies, which are united under the name of Colloidea.

Synopsis of the four Families of Collodaria.

Suborder I. COLLOIDEA, Haeckel.

The suborder Colloidea comprises all those Spumellaria in which no skeleton is developed. The whole body is therefore soft—a true malacoma—and is composed only of two essential parts, the central capsule and the enveloping extracapsulum. The suborder contains only two different families, the solitary Thalassicollida (or Colloidea monozoa) and the associated Collozoida (or Colloidea polyzoa). Both families are very nearly allied, and differ only in one single essential character: the solitary life of the former, the social union of the latter. It seems to be merely in consequence of this difference that the cleavage of the nucleus commonly takes place very late in the former, very early in the latter.

Therefore the full-grown Thalassicollida (till immediately before propagation) commonly exhibit one single nucleus in the centre of the capsule, whilst in the Collozoida the capsule is distended by numerous small nuclei. In these latter the centre of the capsule usually contains one large oil-globule, whilst in the former oil-globules are either wanting, or scattered in large numbers in the endoplasm, or disposed in one layer on the inside of the capsule membrane.

In the solitary Thalassicollida each capsule is enclosed in its own peculiar spherical calymma, whilst in the associated Collozoida all capsules of the colony are united in one common, very voluminous calymma.

Family I. Thalassicollida, Haeckel, 1862.

Thalassicollida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 246.

Thalassicollida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 469.

The family Thalassicollida comprises all solitary Spumellaria without a skeleton. The oldest and best known form of this family is the genus Thalassicolla, as restricted by {11}Johannes Müller.^[4] The most common representative of it, the cosmopolitan Thalassicolla nucleata, was first described by Huxley in 1851. But as early as 1834 another large Radiolarian, appertaining either to this or to a nearly allied family, had been described by Meyen as Physematium atlanticum. A third genus was detected by me in 1859 at Messina and figured under the name Thalassolampe margarodes.^[5] A very accurate histological description of these forms was given in 1876 by Richard Hertwig.^[6] The same author figured in his Organismus in 1879 a very interesting simpler form under the name Thalassolampe primordialis (Taf. iii. fig. 5). Some similar forms had already been observed by me, and are here united with it to form the first genus Actissa.^[7]

Actissa is of the highest general interest as the most simple and typical form of all Radiolaria, and as the common ancestral form, from which all other forms of this large class may be derived. Its unicellular body exhibits neither the extracapsular alveoli of Thalassicolla, nor the intracapsular alveoli of Thalassolampe, and shows all essential characters of the Radiolarian type in its most simple form (Pl. 1, figs. 1 to 1c). The simple cell-body is composed of a spherical central capsule and a concentric, spherical, enveloping calymma, both separated by a thin membrane which is perforated by innumerable pores. The capsule includes the endoplasm and in the centre a simple spherical nucleus with nucleolus; at the time of propagation this latter becomes cleft into numerous small nuclei, each of which, together with a small piece of the surrounding endoplasm, forms a flagellated zoospore (fig. 1c). The extracapsulum is formed by the large, structureless, spherical calymma or concentric jelly-veil enveloping the capsule, and by the thin granular matrix or the layer of exoplasm which separates the calymma from the membrane. From this matrix or maternal tissue arise innumerable very long and thin pseudopodia, as simple radiating filaments, the proximal part of which is included in the calymma, whilst the distal part floats freely in the sea-water (Pl. 1, fig. 1).

The other Thalassicollida differ from their common ancestral form, Actissa, mainly by the higher histological differentiation of the unicellular body. Whilst in Thalassicolla and Thalassolampe the nucleus remains a single sphere as in Actissa, it becomes branched or covered with radial blind saccules in Thalassopila and Thalassophysa; also the intracapsular protoplasm develops here a great variety of peculiar different corpuscles, as oil-globules, pigment-granules, concentric concretions, crystals, &c. But the most striking peculiarity by which the other Thalassicollida differ from Actissa is the development of large vesicular alveoli, either within or without the capsule; the unicellular body reaches by this inflation the extraordinary size of 5 to 10 mm. or more.

Synopsis of the Genera of Thalassicollida.

Genus 1. Actissa,^[8] n. gen.

Definition.—Thalassicollida with simple spherical nucleus, without any alveoli (either within or outside the central capsule).

The genus Actissa is the most simple and typical form of all Radiolaria, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form of the whole class. The spherical body is composed of a simple spherical capsule and a concentric spherical calymma or jelly-envelope. Neither the former nor the latter contains alveoli. The central capsule possesses a strong membrane perforated by small pores, and contains in the intracapsular sarcode numerous small pellucid vacuoles, and in its middle a simple, concentric, spherical nucleus (often with some nucleoli); sometimes also one or more oil-globules. The extracapsularium forms a soft, voluminous, structureless calymma or enveloping jelly-sphere, perforated by the numberless, fine pseudopodia, which radiate outwards from the matrix or the thin granulated sarcode-layer, surrounding the capsule. Often (but not constantly) xanthellæ or yellow cells are scattered in it. Actissa differs from the following skeletonless genera in the absence of all alveoli; it has neither intracapsular alveoli (like Thalassolampe) nor extracapsular alveoli (like Thalassicolla). The first observed species of this genus is that which I found in 1866 at the Canary Islands, Actissa prototypus; the second is that which Hertwig accurately described in 1879, from the Mediterranean (Messina), Actissa primordialis; the third I observed in 1881 at Ceylon, frequent and sporiparous, Actissa princeps. A fourth species (Actissa radiata) exhibited a distinct radial segmentation of the capsule-contents. These four species are quite spherical. Six other species, occurring in different preparations from the Challenger, are distinguished by modifications of the spherical capsule-form and may represent three different subgenera (or, perhaps better, genera?)—Actiprunum ellipsoidal, Actidiscus lenticular, Actilarcus lentelliptical; perhaps these are the ancestral forms of the three sections: Prunoidea, Discoidea, Larcoidea.

Subgenus 1. Procyttarium, Haeckel, 1879.

Procyttarium, Haeckel, Natürl. Schöpfungsgeschichte, ed. vii. p. 705.

Central capsule spherical, colourless or a little reddish, transparent, with a thick double-edged membrane. Nucleus central, spherical, one-third as broad as the central capsule, containing a single, central, glossy nucleolus. Protoplasm finely granulated, without oil-globules, with numerous clear spherical vacuoles of equal size and at equal distances; the superficial layer of protoplasm (immediately below the membrane) radially striated (fig. 1). In some older specimens the nucleus was divided into numerous small nuclei (fig. 1a), which by further division gave the nuclei of the flagellated spores (fig. 1b); each spore with a very thin lateral flagellum (fig. 1c). Jelly-like calymma twice as broad as the enclosed capsule, without xanthellæ or yellow cells, pierced by innumerable, very thin and long, undivided pseudopodia, which arise from the sarcode-matrix on the outside of the membrane (six to eight times longer than shown in fig. 1).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.1 to 0.12, of the nucleus 0.03 to 0.04, of the jelly calymma 0.2 to 0.3.

Habitat.—Indian Ocean, Ceylon, Belligemma, Haeckel, 1881; also in a preparation from Station 271, Central Pacific, surface.

Thalassolampe primordialis, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus der Radiolarien, p. 32, Taf. iii. fig. 5.

Procyttarium primordiale, Haeckel, 1879, Natürl. Schöpf., ed. vii. p. 705, Taf. xvi. fig. 1.

Central capsule spherical, dim-yellowish, with a thin, simple-edged but compact membrane. Nucleus large, central (about half as broad), with one or two dark nucleoli; on its side an excentric oil-globule, nearly of the same size. Protoplasm between nucleus and membrane, in the younger specimens finely granulated and radially striped; in the older specimens with numerous hyaline globules (vacuoles). Jelly-envelope or calymma very voluminous, ten to twelve times as broad as the central capsule, structureless, containing numerous yellow bodies (xanthellæ?), pierced by very numerous simple pseudopodia.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.11 to 0.18, of the nucleus 0.04 to 0.09, of the jelly-like calymma 1.2 to 1.5.

Central capsule spherical, red-coloured, with a thick, double-edged membrane. Nucleus central, spherical, half as large as the radius of the capsule, containing a large number (forty to sixty) of small {14}dark nucleoli. Protoplasm filled up with numerous small clear vacuoles, and between them fine red pigment granules; on the inside of the membrane one layer of dark oil-globules. Jelly-like calymma four times as broad as the enclosed capsule, with very numerous small xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.2, of the nucleus 0.05, of the calymma 0.8.

Habitat.—Atlantic, Canary Islands (Lanzerote, Haeckel), 1866; also at Station 348, surface.

Central capsule spherical, dark, with a thick, double-edged membrane. Nucleus central, spherical, half as large as the capsule, transparent. Protoplasm divided into numerous cuneiform radial pieces which are separated by clear intervals, and filled with very fine dark granules (darker in the distal half). The equatorial optical section exhibits around the circular clear nucleus a coronal of twenty-five such wedge-shaped pieces (mother-cells of spores?) No oil-globules in the central capsule. Jelly-like calymma one and a half times as broad as the enclosed capsule, with numerous small xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.15, of the nucleus 0.07, of the calymma 0.24.

Subgenus 2. Actiprunum, Haeckel, 1882.

Actiprunum prunoideum, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsule ellipsoidal, colourless, with a thin, simple-edged membrane. Proportion of its major axis to the minor 4 : 3. Nucleus spherical, its diameter equal to one-third of the minor axis, in its centre a large, dark, spherical nucleolus. Protoplasm clear, containing numerous small vacuoles, separated by regular distances, and on the inside of the capsule-membrane, numerous (forty to fifty) small oil-globules. Calymma (or jelly-veil) ellipsoidal, with a thin sarcode-stratum on the outside of the capsule; its diameter twice as large as that of the central capsule.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the capsule 0.16, minor 0.12; diameter of the nucleus 0.04; major axis of the calymma 0.32, minor 0.24.

Actiprunum ellipsoides, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsule ellipsoidal, red-coloured, with a thick, double-edged membrane. Proportion of its major axis to the minor 5 : 3. Nucleus ellipsoidal, one-third as large as the capsule, containing eight small dark nucleoli. Protoplasm dusky, filled with dark pink pigment-granules; in the {15}major axis, on both poles of the nucleus-axis, two large oil-globules, half as large as the nucleus. Calymma ellipsoidal, with numerous xanthellæ; its diameter four times as large as that of the capsule.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the capsule 0.2, minor 0.12; major axis of the nucleus 0.07, minor 0.04; major axis of the calymma 0.8, minor 0.5.

Subgenus 3. Actidiscus, Haeckel, 1882.

Actidiscus discoides, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsule lenticular, red-coloured, about twice as broad as high, with a thick, double-edged membrane. Nucleus spherical, one-third as broad as the capsule, with one single, large central nucleolus. Protoplasm dusky, filled with scarlet pigment; granules and small oil-globules between them. Calymma lenticular, three times as broad as the capsule.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the capsule 0.16, minor 0.08; diameter of the nucleus 0.05; breadth of the calymma 0.5.

Central capsule lenticular, flattened, about three times as broad as high, with a thin, simple-edged membrane. Nucleus lenticular, one-third as large as the capsule, with ten small dark nucleoli. Protoplasm transparent, colourless, filled with small vacuoles at regular distances; on the inside of the membrane in the circular periphery of the lens twenty dark oil-globules. Calymma lenticular, twice as broad as the capsule.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the capsule 0.15, minor 0.05; breadth of the nucleus 0.05, height 0.02; breadth of the calymma 0.03.

Actidiscus phacoides, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsule lenticular, strongly flattened, about four times as broad as high, with a thin, simple-edged membrane. Nucleus lenticular, one-fourth as broad as the capsule, with numerous (twenty or more) small nucleoli. Protoplasm filled with dark pigment-granules; on the inside of the membrane in the circular periphery of the lens thirty-two dark oil-globules. Calymma lenticular, three times as broad as the capsule.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the capsule 0.2, minor 0.05; breadth of the nucleus 0.05, height 0.015; breadth of the calymma 0.6.

Subgenus 4. Actilarcus, Haeckel.

Central capsule lentelliptical; with three different axes, bearing the proportion 4 : 3 : 2. Nucleus spherical; its diameter equal to the shortest radius of the capsule. No nucleoli visible. Protoplasm transparent, with small vacuoles; on the inside of the thin capsule-membrane numerous (fifty to sixty) small oil-globules, regularly disposed. Calymma lentelliptical, twice as large as the central capsule.

Dimensions.—Major axis or length of the capsule 0.2, middle axis or breadth 0.15, minor axis or height 0.1; diameter of the nucleus 0.05, of the calymma 0.3-0.4.

Genus 2. Thalassolampe,^[9] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 253.

Definition.—Thalassicollida without extracapsular alveoles, but with large roundish or globular alveoles within the central capsule, with a simple spherical, not branched nucleus in the centre.

The genus Thalassolampe is, next to Actissa, the most simple of all Radiolaria, but differs from it by the large intracapsular alveoles. By these the central capsule is inflated to an extraordinary size, which in Thalassolampe maxima exceeds that of most other Radiolaria. From the nearly allied Thalassopila it differs by the simple spherical nucleus, from Physematium by the absence of spicula. Of the two species of the genus the first observed Thalassolampe margarodes, 1862, is Mediterranean, the second, Thalassolampe maxima, 1882, is Indian.

Thalassolampe margarodes, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 253, Taf. ii. figs. 4, 5.

Thalassolampe margarodes, R. Hertwig, 1876, Histologie d. Radiol., p. 68, Taf. iii. figs. 1-5.

Spherical body very soft and limpid, somewhat pearl-like opalescent, yellowish or bluish. Central capsule with a very thin structureless membrane, its diameter six to eight times as large as that of the central spherical nucleus. Wall of the vesicular nucleus thick, perforated by fine {17}pore-canals; on its inside often numerous oval nucleoli. In the movable protoplasmic network between the large alveoles a considerable number of large yellowish or orange oil-globules. Extracapsular jelly-envelope very thin, contains small yellow bodies (zooxanthellæ). (Compare the accurate description of this Mediterranean species in my monograph and in Hertwig's work.) In the Canary Islands I found very often a large variety of it, of double and triple the size, distinguished by the delicate orange colour of the intracapsular oil-globules. This may be distinguished as Thalassolampe aurantiaca.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly-sphere 2 to 4 mm., of the central capsule 2 to 3 mm., of its nucleus 0.2 to 0.4 mm.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, Messina, Haeckel, Hertwig; Canary Islands, Lanzerote, Haeckel; surface.

Spherical body quite pellucid, like a glass globule, colourless. Central capsule with a moderately thick, but quite transparent, structureless membrane, its diameter ten to twelve times as large as that of the central spherical nucleus. Wall of the vesicular nucleus thick, perforated by fine pore-canals; on its inside numerous small spherical nucleoli. No large oil-globules in the movable protoplasmic network between the large alveoles. Extracapsular jelly-envelope very thin, containing no yellow bodies. This differs from the preceding nearly allied species in the want of the intracapsular oil-globules and of the extracapsular yellow bodies. It possesses the largest central capsule of all known Radiolaria. I found them living and floating in water taken from the surface of the Indian Ocean by a bucket.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly-body 12 to 15 mm., of the central capsule 10 to 12 mm., of the nucleus 0.8 to 1.2 mm.

Genus 3. Thalassopila,^[10] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 469.

Definition.—Thalassicollida without extracapsular alveoles, but with large roundish or globular alveoles within the central capsule, with a papillate or branched nucleus in its centre.

The genus Thalassopila has, like Thalassolampe, a voluminous foamy central capsule, inflated by numerous large alveoles; but it differs in the complicated form of the nucleus, which is like that of Thalassophysa, and is either branched or occupied by conical or roundish papillæ.

Spherical body dark-spotted, with a thin yellowish jelly-envelope. Central capsule with a thick and firm membrane, perforated by pores; its diameter three times that of the central nucleus, {18}three-fourths that of the whole jelly-sphere. Nucleus profusely branched or papillated, its spherical surface covered with numerous (more than a hundred) finger-shaped obtuse blind sacs, about as long as its radius. Protoplasm of the central capsule forming a loose network between the large roundish alveoles, in the cortical zone radially striped and containing one layer of large dark oil-globules. These are regularly distributed on the inside of the capsule-membrane and separated by intervals, twice as broad as its diameter, giving to the capsule-surface a spotted appearance. Extracapsular jelly-envelope thin, yellowish, with very numerous and small xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly-sphere 5 mm., of the central capsule 4 mm., of the nucleus 1.3 mm.

Genus 4. Thalassicolla,^[11] Huxley, 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 433.

Definition.—Thalassicollida without intracapsular alveoles, but with large roundish or globular alveoles within the extracapsular calymma. Nucleus in the centre of the capsule simple spherical, not branched.

The genus Thalassicolla was proposed by Huxley in 1851, for a certain number of different voluminous jelly-like Radiolaria, which he had observed living during his voyage in the "Rattlesnake" through the tropical seas, and of which he gives an excellent description—the first accurate observations on living Radiolaria. Johannes Müller afterwards removed from this genus the social genera Sphærozoum and Collosphæra (formerly Thalassicolla punctata), and retained as type of the genus Thalassicolla nucleata. In 1862 in my Monograph I added two other species, Thalassicolla pelagica and Thalassicolla zanclea, and later (1870) Thalassicolla sanguinolenta. Now I think it better to separate the last two species as a new genus, Thalassophysa, characterised by the papillate or branched nucleus, and to retain in Thalassicolla only those forms with simple spherical nucleus. For both genera the extracapsular, voluminous, spherical calymma or jelly-envelope, with numerous large alveoles, is characteristic. The membrane of the central capsule in Thalassicolla is now structureless (subgenus Thalassicollarium, with three species), now characterised by a peculiar structure, prominent ridges on the inside of the membrane, which form a network with polygonal plates, resembling an epithelium (Pl. 1, fig. 5b; subgenus Thalassicollidium, with four species). Of the seven species here described, two are cosmopolitan, widely distributed, and common; one is Mediterranean, one Atlantic, and three Pacific.

Subgenus 1. Thalassicollarium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Membrane of the central capsule structureless, only perforated by innumerable very small radial pores.

Spherical body very soft, transparent, clear and colourless, without any pigment. Central capsule soft, hyaline, with a thin, structureless, not areolated membrane. Diameter of the central capsule about three times that of the nucleus, one-fourth to one-sixth that of the jelly-envelope. Nucleus delicate, transparent, with one single central nucleolus, about one-third its diameter. Protoplasm of the central capsule contains only small, pellucid, densely packed globules (vacuoles?), no oil-globules. Extracapsular body quite transparent, without pigment or oil-globules, only composed of the large alveoles imbedded in the jelly-cover, and of the fine protoplasmic network between them. No xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.8 to 1.2, of the nucleus 0.3 to 0.4, of the calymma 3 to 6 mm.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan, Canary Islands, Haeckel; Cape, Australia, Pacific, Challenger; surface.

Spherical body nearly transparent, yellowish, without dark pigment. Central capsule pellucid, with a thick, structureless, not areolated membrane. Diameter of the central capsule about twice that of the nucleus, one-sixth to one-eighth that of the jelly-cover. Nucleus delicate, somewhat opaque, with numerous small nucleoli. Protoplasm of the central capsule contains small pellucid globules (vacuoles?), and immediately under its membrane (on its inside) one single layer of large, dark, refractive oil-globules. Extracapsular body very voluminous, foamy, with innumerable alveoles in the jelly, and many xanthellæ between them.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.6 to 0.8, of the nucleus 0.3 to 0.4, of the calymma 3 to 5 mm.

Habitat.—Atlantic, Canary Islands, Haeckel; Cape Verde Islands, Challenger Station 350; Brazil, Rabbe; surface.

Thalassicolla zanclea, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 252, Taf. ii. fig. 3.

Spherical body opaque, transparent only in the periphery, with colourless central capsule, but with brown or black pigment-powder scattered everywhere through the extracapsular alveolated jelly-cover. Central capsule soft, transparent, colourless, with a thin structureless, not areolated membrane. Diameter of the central capsule about one and a half times that of the nucleus, one-half or one-third that of the jelly-cover. Nucleus delicate, transparent, with a thin, finely punctated membrane, with one or more nucleoli. Protoplasm of the central capsule contains only small, pellucid, densely packed globules (vacuoles?), no oil-globules. Extracapsular body very dark and opaque, with a great mass of brown or blackish-brown pigment between the alveoles of the jelly-cover. Numerous xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.1 to 0.12, of the nucleus 0.07 to 0.08, of the calymma 0.2 to 0.4.

Subgenus 2. Thalassicollidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Membrane of the central capsule areolated, with small polygonal plates, resembling an epithelial cell-tissue, spotted by innumerable fine radial pores.

Spherical body nearly transparent, without dark pigment. Central capsule colourless, somewhat opaque, with a thick and firm, very elastic membrane, areolated by polygonal, punctated figures resembling cells. Diameter of the central capsule about three times that of the nucleus, one-third that of the jelly-cover. Nucleus thin-walled, with many small nucleoli. Protoplasm of the central capsule finely granulated, containing numerous hyaline globules (vacuoles?) of different size, and in each of these one single roundish, dark refringing corpuscle, concentrically lamellated like an amylum grain. Extracapsular body without pigment or oil-globules, only composed of the large alveoles imbedded in the jelly-cover, and of the fine protoplasmic network between them. No xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 1 to 2, of its nucleus 0.3 to 0.4, of the nucleoli 0.12 to 0.16, of the hyaline globules in the protoplasm of the capsule 0.02 to 0.05; calymma, 4 to 6 mm.

Habitat.—South-west Pacific, east coast of Australia, New Zealand, &c.; Challenger Stations 163, 171; surface.

Thalassicolla nucleata, Huxley, 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 435, pl. xvi. fig. 4.

Thalassicolla nucleata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 28.

Thalassicolla coerulea, Schneider, 1858, Archiv f. Anat. u. Physiol., p. 40, Taf. iii. Bd. i. figs. 5-7.

Thalassicolla nucleata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 249, Taf. iii. figs. 1-5.

Thalassicolla nucleata, R. Hertwig, 1876, Histologie d. Radiol., p. 43, Taf. iii. figs. 61-5, Taf. iv., v.

Thalassicolla nucleata, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 34.

Spherical body in the central part opaque, black or dark coloured, in the periphery transparent, whitish, or yellowish. Central capsule rather compact, yellowish, opaque, with a thick and firm, very elastic membrane, areolated by polygonal, punctated figures resembling cells. Diameter of the central capsule about twice as large as that of the nucleus, one-half to one-fourth that of the jelly-cover. Nucleus with a very thick, finely punctated membrane, containing a viscous fluid (when coagulated finely granular), and sometimes one large, central, spherical, or ramified nucleolus, sometimes a variable number of smaller roundish nucleoli. Protoplasm of the central capsule containing many very variable corpuscles, mostly pellucid (albuminous?) spherules, containing oil-globules, or concentric amyloid concretions, or crystals, &c. Extracapsular body with dark pigment-powder of variable colour (black, brown, violet, blue, &c.), densely aggregated around the central capsule, more loosely dissipated between the alveoles of the outer jelly-cover. Xanthellæ very numerous.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.4 to 0.8, of the nucleus 0.02 to 0.05, of the calymma 1 to 5 mm.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; common in all warmer seas; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Pacific, mainly between lat. 40° N. and lat. 40° S.; surface.

Spherical body in the central part opaque, black or dark coloured, in the periphery semi-transparent, spotted. Central capsule compact, yellowish, opaque, with a thick and firm, very elastic membrane, areolated by polygonal, punctated figures resembling cells. Diameter of the central capsule about twice that of the nucleus, one-third to one-fifth that of the jelly-cover. Nucleus thin-walled, with one large spherical nucleolus. Protoplasm of the central capsule contains innumerable very small, hyaline, spherical vesicles of equal size (or vacuoles?), two to four times as broad as the separating bridges of protoplasm. Extracapsular body with dark pigment-powder of black or brown colour, densely accumulated around the central capsule (in the matrix), loosely scattered between the alveoles of the outer jelly-cover. The latter appears spotted by numerous large, roundish lumps of protoplasm, scattered between the alveoles. No xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.3 to 0.6, of the nucleus 0.2 to 0.3, of the hyaline globules in the protoplasm of the capsule 0.02 to 0.03; calymma, 2 to 3 mm.

Spherical body in the central part opaque, black or dark coloured, in the periphery semi-transparent, spotted. Central capsule compact, black, with a thick and firm, very elastic membrane, areolated by polygonal, punctated figures resembling cells. Diameter of the central capsule about twice that of the nucleus, one-third or half that of the jelly-cover. Nucleus thin-walled, transparent, containing very numerous and small nucleoli. Protoplasm of the central capsule filled with small black pigment-granules, quite intransparent, contains densely packed hyaline (albuminous?) globules of equal size; every pellucid globule includes a smaller globule (one-third or one-fourth its diameter), which appears to be composed of aggregated oil-bubbles. Extracapsular body without pigment, contains between its alveoles in the inner half numerous, dark refractive oil-globules, in the outer half numerous amœboid lumps of protoplasm, irregularly scattered. No xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 2 to 2.5, of the nucleus 1 to 1.5, of the hyaline globules in the protoplasm of the capsule 0.03 to 0.04; calymma, 3 to 5 mm.

Habitat.—South-east Pacific (near Valparaiso), Challenger Station 300, surface.

Genus 5. Thalassophysa,^[12] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 470.

The genus Thalassophysa contains those species of Thalassicollida formerly associated with Thalassicolla, which are distinguished by the complicated, ramose, or papillate form of the large nucleus. All three species here described are found in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. To this genus appertains also that strange form of Radiolaria which I described in 1870 as Myxobrachia (compare Thalassophysa sanguinolenta).

Thalassicolla papillosa, Haeckel, 1867, Manuscript.

Spherical body transparent, colourless, or somewhat yellowish. Central capsule soft, colourless, with a very thin but firm, elastic, structureless membrane. Diameter of the central capsule about twice that of the nucleus, one-fourth to one-sixth that of the jelly-envelope. Nucleus papillated, its spherical surface covered with a great number (50 to 80) of conical or finger-like protuberances or blind sacs, not longer than half its radius. Protoplasm of the central capsule filled with very small and numerous spherical vacuoles, without oil-globules. Extracapsular jelly-body, without dark pigment, oil-globules, and large protoplasmic lumps, contains between its alveoles very numerous xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly sphere 4 to 5 mm., of the central capsule 0.8 to 1 mm., of its nucleus 0.4 to 0.5.

Habitat.—Canary Islands, Lanzerote, common, Haeckel; Cape Verde Islands, Challenger; surface.

Thalassicolla sanguinolenta, Haeckel, 1870, Jenaische Zeitschr., Bd. v. p. 526, Taf. 18.

Thalassicolla sanguinolenta, Haeckel, 1870, Biolog. Studien, i. p. 113, Taf. iv.

Thalassicolla sanguinolenta, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 37, Taf. iii. fig. 1.

Myxobrachia rhopalum, Haeckel, 1870, Jenaische Zeitschr., Bd. v. p. 519, Taf. 18 (et in Biol. Stud., loc. cit.).

Myxobrachia pluteus, Haeckel, 1870, Jenaische Zeitschr., Bd. v. p. 520, Taf. 18 (et in Biol. Stud., loc. cit.).

Spherical body in the central part opaque, reddish, in the periphery transparent, yellowish. Central capsule compact, white, red spotted, with a thick elastic membrane, perforated by pores, but not areolated. Diameter of the central capsule three times that of the nucleus, one-fifth to one-eighth that of the jelly-envelope. Nucleus papillated, its spherical surface covered with numerous (80 to 120) conical or finger-like protuberances not longer than one-fourth or one-third of its radius. On the inside of these blind sacs lie numerous small roundish nucleoli. Protoplasm of the central capsule in the outer (cortical) zone (on the inside of the membrane) radially striped, with one layer of very numerous red oil-globules of equal size, producing its blood-spotted appearance; in the inner (medullary) zone foamy, with numerous small spherical vacuoles. Extracapsular jelly-body without dark pigment, contains between its alveoles no large protoplasmic lumps (as in Thalassophysa pelagica), but numerous small oil-globules and xanthellæ. This species sometimes amasses in its jelly-envelope large accumulations of Coccoliths and Coccospheres, {23}which are much heavier than the jelly-body, and produce arm-like protuberances of it; this modified form, often of very regular and peculiar appearance, I formerly described as Myxobrachia (compare my Biolog. Studien, loc. cit., and Hertwig, loc. cit., p. 37). Compare also Myxobrachia cienkowski, Wagner, 1872, L. N. 23.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly-sphere 5 to 8 mm., of the central capsule 1 to 1.2 mm., of its nucleus 0.3 to 0.4.

Habitat.—Canary Islands, Lanzerote; common, Haeckel; Mediterranean, Messina, Hertwig; surface.

Thalassicolla pelagica, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 247, Taf. i.

Thalassicolla pelagica, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 35, Taf. iii. fig. 4.

Spherical body in the central part opaque, yellowish, in the periphery semi-transparent, spotted. Central capsule compact, yellowish-white, with a thick and compact membrane, perforated by pores, but not areolated. Diameter of the central capsule about twice that of the nucleus, one-half to one-sixth that of the jelly-envelope. Nucleus papillated, its spherical surface covered with numerous (20 to 60) conical, roundish, or finger-like protuberances, not longer than its radius (commonly only one-half or one-third as long). Enclosed in the semi-fluid substance of the nucleus are very long and thin cylindrical nucleoli snake-like, contorted, and penetrating into the protuberances of the nucleus. Protoplasm of the central capsule in the outer (cortical) zone (on the inside of the membrane) radially striped, with one layer of large oil-globules of different sizes; in the inner (medullary) zone foamy, with numerous small spherical vacuoles, mostly of equal size. Extracapsular jelly-body without dark pigment, contains between its alveoles a large number of large roundish or amœboid lumps of protoplasm, and very numerous yellow cells or xanthellæ (compare the detailed description in my Monograph, and in R. Hertwig's work).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly-sphere 1 to 4 mm., of the central capsule 0.5 to 0.6, of the nucleus 0.2 to 0.3.

Habitat.—Mediterranean—Messina, Corfu, Nizza, Genoa, Haeckel; Messina, R. Hertwig; surface.

Family II. Collozoida, Haeckel, 1862 (Pl. 3).

The family Collozoida comprises all associated or colony-building Radiolaria without skeleton. We unite here all these skeletonless Radiolarian colonies into one single genus Collozoum, constituted (1862) in my Monograph (p. 522). The oldest known form of it was the Collozoum inerme, described firstly by Johannes Müller (1856) as Sphærozoum inerme. Two other species of the genus were figured (1862) in my Monograph (p. 522, Tafn. xxxii., xxxv.). A most accurate description of its histological structure and {24}development was given in 1876 by Richard Hertwig in his Histologie der Radiolarien (pp. 12-42, Tafn. i., ii.). A number of other very remarkable forms of Collozoum have been observed by me during the last few years, and partly figured in Pl. 3.

Collozoum, as the only representative of this family, is sufficiently distinguished from all other Radiolaria by the definition "Skeletonless Radiolarian Colonies." These occur floating on the surface of all warmer seas, often in astonishing masses, and may be easily confounded, owing to their external resemblance, with the jelly-like egg-masses of certain Mollusca. Collozoum is derived either from Actissa or from Thalassicolla, simply by multiplication of the unicellular body and by reunion of the associated capsules in one common calymma or jelly-veil; this is constantly alveolated, as in Thalassicolla. As in Actissa, the form of the central capsule remains either spherical, or it becomes ellipsoidal or discoidal, rarely polyhedral or amœboid. In Collozoum as in all colonial Radiolaria, the original central nucleus commonly undergoes cleavage very early into numerous small nuclei, whilst its place is usually taken by a central oil-globule. This peculiarity may serve often (but not constantly) for the distinction of isolated capsules of Collozoum from Actissa.

Genus 6. Collozoum,^[13] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 522.

The genus Collozoum, as already mentioned, is the only representative of its family, and comprises all Radiolaria living associated in colonies, and having no skeleton. Therefore Collozoum possesses all the peculiarities described above. Although the floating colonies of this genus occur in enormous masses on the surface of all warmer seas, nevertheless the number of different species in this genus is not great, and amounts only to thirteen. If this number increase by further investigations, the subgenera distinguished in the following description can be advanced to the range of genera; in which case Collodinium (or Collozoum sensu restricto) will be characterised by the spherical form of its central capsules, Colloprunum by the ellipsoidal form (Pl. 3, fig. 9), Collophidium by the cylindrical, very prolonged form (figs. 2, 3), Collodiscus by the lenticular or discoidal form, and Collodastrum by the indefinite, polyhedral, or amœboid form (figs. 4, 5).

Subgenus 1. Collodinium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Form of the central capsules spherical or subspherical, never polyhedral, ellipsoidal, or cylindrical.

Collozoum inerme, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 522, Taf. xxxv.

Collozoum inerme, Cienkowski, 1871, Archiv. f. mikrosk. Anat., vol. vii. p. 376, Taf. xxix. figs. 18-36.

Collozoum inerme, R. Hertwig, 1876, Histologie der Radiol., p. 12, Taf. i., ii.

Collozoum inerme, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 31, Taf. iii. fig. 12.

Sphærozoum inerme, J. Müller, 1856, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 478; Abhandl., p. 54.

Sphærozoum bicellulare, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54, Taf. viii. fig. 5.

Thalassicolla punctata, Huxley (pro parte), 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 433.

Central capsules spherical, with thin, simple-edged membrane, with one single oil-globule in the centre. (If the capsules multiply by division, the spherical form becomes violin-shaped, constricted in the middle; and in this condition the number of oil-globules increases; but in the ordinary mature state the capsule of this species remains spherical, and its oil-globule solitary. In quite young capsules the oil-globules are wanting; Pl. 3, fig. 12.)

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan, common in all warmer seas (Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific), surface.

Central capsules spherical, very large, opaque, distended with red pigment-granules and with very numerous (two hundred to three hundred) small oil-globules. Membrane thick, double-edged.

Central capsules spherical, very large, opaque, containing a great number (ten to thirty) of large oil-globules, and between them densely packed masses of dark pigment. Membrane thick, double-edged. This species differs from Collozoum inerme, mainly by the great size of the central capsules (three to five times as big as in the former) and the great number of oil-globules in them.

Subgenus 2. Colloprunum, Haeckel.

Definition.—Form of the central capsules ellipsoidal, with one prolonged axis.

Colloprunum ovatum, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsules ovate or ellipsoidal, its longer diameter twice to three times as large as the shorter. In the centre of every capsule one single oil-globule.

Dimensions.—Length of the central capsules 0.2 to 0.3, breadth of them 0.1 to 15.

Colloprunum ellipsoides, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsules regularly ellipsoidal, very large; their longer diameter once and a half to twice as large as the shorter. In every capsule fifty to eighty oil-globules.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel (Gulf Stream), surface, John Murray.

Subgenus 3. Collophidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Form of the central capsules cylindrical, often snake-like, contorted, with one axis much prolonged, several times longer than the transverse axis.

Collophidium contortum, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsules cylindrical, three to four times as long as broad, C- or S-like curved, transparent, without oil-globules.

Dimensions.—Length of the central capsules 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.06 to 0.08.

Collophidium serpentinum, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsules cylindrical, filiform, much elongated, ten to one hundred times, sometimes two hundred to four hundred times as long as broad, snake-shaped or worm-shaped, curved and contorted in the most irregular manner, often spiral or twisted into a large nodule. Numerous oil-vesicles constantly present, forming one series of globules in the axis of every capsule; distance of the globules, one from another, and also from the capsule-membrane, about equal to their diameter. (This interesting and very curious form was very frequently observed living by me in the Canary Islands, in January 1867; the jelly-colonies were commonly spherical, and contained fifty to two hundred or more capsules of very different size and form.)

Dimensions.—Length of the central capsules 1 to 10, sometimes 20 to 40 mm.; average breadth 0.1 mm.

Collophidium vermiforme, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsules cylindrical, much elongated, five to ten times (sometimes twenty to fifty times) as long as broad, snake-shaped or worm-shaped, very irregularly curved and contorted. Numerous oil-globules constantly present, forming in the axis of every capsule a double series of alternating rose-coloured globules. (This species is nearly allied to the preceding; but its capsules are thicker and shorter, and the oil-vesicles in them are arranged not in a single, but in a double row.)

Dimensions.—Length of the central capsules 0.6 to 1.2 mm., sometimes 3 to 6 mm.; breadth 0.12.

Habitat.—Tropical Atlantic, near the west coast of Africa, Station 349, Canary Islands, surface.

Subgenus 4. Collodiscus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Form of the central capsules discoidal or lenticular, with one shortened axis.

Collozoum coeruleum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 523, Taf. xxxii. figs. 6-8.

Collodiscus coeruleus, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsule lenticular or discoidal, flattened, blue coloured, with one single oil-globule in the centre. Protoplasm containing numerous crystals and dark blue pigment-granules. Membrane very thick, double-edged. (Whilst at Messina in 1859 I found this form not constantly discoidal, in 1867 in the Canary Islands I observed it constantly lenticular.)

Dimensions.—Breadth of the central capsules 0.1 to 0.15, height 0.04 to 0.08.

Collodiscus discoideus, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsule discoidal, flattened, transparent, with a ring of twenty to twenty-five oil-globules in its circular periphery (on the inside of the thin membrane).

Subgenus 5. Collodastrum, Haeckel.

Definition.—Form of the central capsules irregular and indefinite, variable, commonly polyhedral or polygonal, or amœboid, often with irregular, finger-like processes.

Collozoum pelagicum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 525, Taf. xxxii. figs. 4, 5.

Sphærozoum pelagicum, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1860, p. 845.

Central capsules small, quite irregularly formed, roundish-polyhedral or depressed-polygonal, transparent, without oil-globules. Often many extracapsular oil-vesicles in the common jelly-body between the central capsules. Membrane very thin and delicate.

Collodastrum stellatum, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsules star-shaped, irregularly radiating, with a great number (eight to twenty or more) of radial, short, conical, acute processes, very variable in size and number. Membrane thin. In every capsule several (four to eight) oil-globules.

Collodastrum amœboides, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Central capsules amœbiform, of moderate size, quite irregularly formed, with a variable number of finger-like, obtuse, irregular prolongations (commonly three to six), very variable in size and form. Membrane thin. In the centre of every capsule one single oil-globule.

Suborder II. BELOIDEA, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spumellaria with an imperfect skeleton, composed of numerous solid needles or spicula, scattered irregularly in the calymma.

The suborder Beloidea comprises all those Spumellaria which possess an imperfect or rudimentary skeleton, composed of a variable number of isolated spicula scattered in the extracapsulum. The suborder contains only two different families, the solitary Thalassosphærida (or Beloidea monozoa) and the associated Sphærozoida (or Beloidea polyzoa). Both families are very nearly allied, and differ only in one single character: the solitary life of the former, the social union of the {29}latter. It seems to be merely a consequence of this difference that the cleavage of the nucleus commonly takes place very late in the former, very early in the latter.

Commonly, therefore, the full-grown Thalassosphærida (until immediately before their propagation) exhibit one single nucleus in the centre of the capsule, whilst in the Sphærozoida the capsule is distended with numerous small nuclei. In these latter the centre of the capsule usually contains one large oil-globule, whilst in the former oil-globules are either wanting or scattered in large numbers in the endoplasm, or disposed in one layer on the inside of the capsule membrane.

In the solitary Thalassosphærida each capsule is enclosed in its own peculiar spherical calymma, whilst in the associated Sphærozoida all the capsules of the colony are united into one common, very voluminous, alveolated calymma.

Family III. Thalassosphærida, Haeckel, 1862, (Pl. 2).

The family Thalassosphærida comprises all solitary Spumellaria with an imperfect skeleton, composed of numerous solid needles or spicula, scattered around the central capsule in the calymma. The structure of the unicellular soft body is quite the same as in the Thalassicollida; it differs from these only in the possession of the extracapsular skeleton. All needles of this skeleton are solid siliceous spicula, never hollow, as in the similar Cannorrhaphida among the Phæodaria. In the special structure and form of the skeleton the Thalassosphærida agree perfectly with the well-known, colony-building Sphærozoida; they differ from these only by their hermit-like life and by some peculiarities derived from this solitary development.

The oldest known form of this family is probably the first Radiolarian, observed in the living state, described in 1834 by Meyen as Physematium atlanticum (see p. 35). A second form was figured in my Monograph (1862) as Thalassosphæra bifurca (p. 260, Taf. xii. fig. 1). A third form was there described under the name Thalassosphæra morum; this remarkable form was first observed by Johannes Müller, and figured under the name Thalassicolla morum (1858, Abhandl., p. 28, Taf. vii. figs. 1, 2). The same form was afterwards observed living by myself in the Mediterranean, as well as in the Atlantic, and in great numbers by the late Sir Wyville Thomson in the Pacific. The latter gave a good figure of it with some valuable remarks in his excellent work, The Atlantic (1877, vol. i. p. 233, fig. 51). He called this peculiar Rhizopod Calcaromma calcarea, on account of the very peculiar calcareous bodies "looking in outline like the rowels of spurs," which are accumulated in great quantity around the central capsule, in the calymma. Further investigations have convinced me that these peculiar stellate {30}bodies of carbonate of lime, for which we propose the name "Calcastrella," are not parts of the skeleton produced by the Radiolarian, but foreign bodies picked up by its extracapsular sarcode (in the same way as the Coccoliths are picked up by Thalassicolla sanguinolenta = Myxobrachia!). These Calcastrella occur also in the calymma of some Discoidea and other Radiolaria; they are either unicellular calcareous Algæ, or foreign bodies of other origin. The Collodarium, however, described as Thalassicolla morum and Calcaromma calcarea, seems to be a simple Actissa, which has picked up a number of Calcastrella.

The Challenger collection has yielded a number of other true Thalassosphærida, which partly agree with Thalassosphæra in the simple structure of the unicellular body (resembling Actissa), and partly differ from it in the development of alveoles, either within or without the central capsule (similar to Thalassolampe and Thalassicolla). The solid siliceous spicula, which occur in great numbers scattered in the calymma, agree perfectly in form with the spicula of the colony-building Sphærozoida. A characteristic difference between the social and the solitary Beloidea seems to be determined by the cleavage of the nucleus, which takes place in the latter very late, in the former very early. Therefore in the large central capsule of the mature solitary Thalassosphærida, we commonly find one large nucleus in the centre, and a number of oil-globules around it in the endosarc, or disposed in one layer on the inside of the capsule-membrane (Pl. 2, figs. 2, 5); whereas in the much smaller associated capsules of the Sphærozoida one large oil-globule is placed commonly in the centre, and a great number of small nuclei scattered in the endoplasm (compare above, p. 24).

Synopsis of the Genera of Thalassosphærida.

Genus 7. Thalassosphæra,^[14] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 259.

Definition.—Thalassosphærida without alveoles, with simple, unbranched, needle-shaped spicula in the calymma.

The genus Thalassosphæra was founded by me in 1862 for those solitary Collodaria in which the simple central capsule is surrounded by scattered solid spicula. {31}I described these two different species, the new Thalassosphæra bifurca and the Thalassosphæra morum, which J. Müller had formerly called Thalassicolla morum. This latter form is characterised by peculiar calcareous bodies "looking in outline like the rowels of spurs, scattered irregularly in the gelatinous envelope," and was therefore afterwards called "Calcaromma calcarea" by Sir Wyville Thomson.^[15] As already mentioned above, these calcareous rowels are foreign bodies, picked up by an Actissa (see p. 29). I here confine the genus Thalassosphæra to those solitary Beloidea in which the body exhibits no alveoles, and the siliceous solid spicula in the calymma are quite simple needles.

Spicula thin cylindrical rods, more or less curved, pointed at both ends, with smooth surface (similar to the needles of Rhaphidozoum italicum). Central capsule spherical, three times as large as the central nucleus, without larger oil-globules.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.1 to 0.12, length of the spicula 0.04 to 0.08.

Spicula thick cylindrical rods, more or less curved, pointed at both ends, covered with numerous strong conical thorns, perpendicular to the axis. Central capsule spherical, four times as broad as the central nucleus, with twenty to thirty large oil-globules on the inside of the membrane.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.2, length of the spicula 0.12 to 0.16.

Genus 8. Thalassoxanthium,^[16] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 470.

Definition.—Thalassosphærida without alveoles, with numerous branched or compound spicula in the calymma.

The genus Thalassoxanthium differs from the foregoing Thalassosphæra, by the ramification of the spicula, and has therefore the same relation to it as Sphærozoum to Belonozoum. The soft unicellular body is as simple as in Actissa, and exhibits alveoles neither in the capsule nor in the calymma.

Subgenus 1. Thalassoxanthella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula not geminate, but simply radiate, consisting of three, four, or more needles or shanks, radiating in different directions from one and the same point; shanks now simple or needle-like, now furcate or branched.

Spicula all (or nearly all) triradiate, composed of three (or sometimes in a few spicula four) needle-like shanks of equal length, diverging from one common point. Shanks straight or somewhat curved, smooth, pointed. Central capsule pellucid, twice as broad as its dark nucleus, without larger oil-globules. Jelly-envelope very thin, with numerous xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.1, of its nucleus 0.05, length of the spicule-shanks 0.6 to 0.8.

Spicula all (or nearly all) triradiate, composed of three (or sometimes in a few spicula four) needle-like shanks of different length, diverging from one common point. Shanks curved or bent, covered with small conical thorns. Central capsule dark, three times as large as the nucleus, with numerous large oil-globules. Jelly-envelope thick, without xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.2, of the nucleus 0.07, length of the spicule-shanks 0.1 to 0.15.

Spicula all (or nearly all) quadriradiate, irregular, composed of four (or sometimes in a few spicula three) needle-like shanks (mostly of unequal length), diverging from one common point. Shanks curved, pointed, thorny, covered with small spinules. Central capsule dusky, twice to three times as large as its dark central nucleus. On the inside of the membrane numerous large oil-globules. Jelly-envelope thin, with numerous xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.45 to 0.5, of its nucleus 0.18 to 0.2.

Spicula all (or nearly all) hexaradiate, composed of six (or sometimes in a few spicula three) needle-like shanks, diverging in two opposite hemispheres (three needles upwards, three needles downwards). Shanks somewhat curved, pointed, smooth. Central capsule yellowish-brown, dark, four times as broad as its dark central nucleus. Jelly-envelope thick (about twice as broad as the capsule), with very numerous xanthellæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.3 to 0.4, of its nucleus 0.1 to 0.12.

Spicula all triradiate, trichotomously branched, with three equal shanks, which diverge from one common point, and are again provided each with three branches on the distal end. These nine branches are commonly once or twice forked (each fork rarely provided with three ramules). The ramules are thin, unequal, curved, or bent, and the ramification nearly resembles a stag's horn. Central capsule transparent, without oil-globules, two to three times as broad as the dark nucleus, which contains one single long central nucleolus. Calymma thin, scarcely as thick as the radius of the nucleus.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.2 to 0.25, of the nucleus 0.08 to 0.1, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Subgenus 2. Thalassoxanthomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula all or partly geminate, consisting of one middle or axial rod, from the two poles of which diverge two, three, or more shanks in different directions. Shanks or needle-rays sometimes simple, needle-like, sometimes bifurcated or branched.

Spicula all (or nearly all) geminate and simply forked, composed of a simple axial rod and two simple, needle-like shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, pointed, smooth, somewhat shorter than the middle rod. Central capsule yellowish, dark, three times as broad as its central dark nucleus; besides this a single oil-globule, nearly of the same size.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.1, of its nucleus 0.03; length of the axial rod of the spicula 0.04, of its shanks 0.03.

Thalassosphæra bifurca, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 260, Taf. xii. fig. 1.

Sphærozoum bifurcum, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 845.

Spicula all geminate and double forked, composed of a simple axial rod and two forked branches on each end; these branches are again forked, so that each spiculum exhibits eight thin distal ends. All branches are thin, slender and straight. Central capsule red, four times as broad as the central nucleus, containing between the red pigment-granules numerous, peculiar, violin-shaped bodies (fat-corpuscles?). Compare fig. 1, loc. cit.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.08, of the nucleus 0.02, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.08.

Spicula all geminate, composed of a simple, very short axial rod and three diverging shanks or branches on each end of it; the shanks are very thin, straight, or little curved, and eight to ten times as long as the axial rod. The spicula are quite smooth, as in the similar Sphærozoum ovodimare (in which, however, the axial rod is much longer). Central capsule transparent, without oil-globules, twice as broad as the nucleus.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.4, of the nucleus 0.2, length of the spicula 0.1 to 0.2.

Spicula all geminate-triradiate, composed of a simple middle rod and of three diverging shanks on each end of it; the shanks are thorny with small spinules and shorter than the axial rod, very similar to the common Sphærozoum punctatum. Central capsule dark, with numerous (twenty to thirty) oil-globules on the inside of the membrane, three times as broad as the nucleus.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.3, of the nucleus 0.1, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.2.

Spicula all geminate-quadriradiate, composed of a simple short middle rod and of four diverging shanks on each end of it; the shanks are quite smooth, irregularly curved or bent, and four to eight times as long as the middle rod. Central capsule dark, filled with pigment-granules, without oil-globules, four times as large as the nucleus.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.5, of the nucleus 0.12, length of the spicula 0.2 to 0.4.

Genus 9. Physematium,^[17] Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Curios., vol. xvi., Suppl., p. 286 (p. 162).

Definition.—Thalassosphærida with large numerous alveoles within the central capsule (not in the calymma), and with numerous simple, needle-shaped spicula in the calymma.

The genus Physematium is, together with the colony-forming Sphærozoum, the first Radiolarian which was observed in the living state, described in 1834 by Meyen. It is most nearly allied to Thalassolampe, and has the same large roundish alveoles within the central capsule, which reaches therefore an extraordinary size, 5 to 10 mm. It {35}differs from the latter by the possession of spicula in the calymma. The peculiar "centripetale Zell-gruppen" on the inside of the capsule-membrane are probably due to radial cleavages of the endoplasm; as also occurs in other Collodaria.

Physematium mülleri, Schneider, 1858, Archiv. f. Anat. u. Physiol., p. 38, Taf. iii. B, figs. 1-5.

Physematium mülleri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 256, Taf. iii. figs. 6-9.

Spherical body limpid, somewhat opalescent, sometimes a little yellowish or brownish, rather soft. Central capsule with a thin, but firm, transparent membrane, its diameter eight to ten times as large as that of the central spherical nucleus. Membrane of the nucleus thick, porous, on its inside with some nucleoli. In the protoplasmic network between the large intracapsular alveoles, numerous large, pale, yellowish, or orange oil-globules. On the inside of the membrane numerous conical bodies, centripetally directed with the apex towards the centre; every conical body ("kegelförmige centripetale Zellgruppe") composed of three to nine (commonly four or five) nucleated cells (mother-cells of the spores?); in the axis of the cone there is often a yellowish, orange, or brown oil-globule. Extracapsular jelly-envelope thin, with short pseudopodia. Xanthellæ scarce or wanting. Spicula scattered in the jelly numerous, small, simple needles, commonly C- or S-like curved, smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly-sphere 3 to 6 mm., of the central capsule 1 to 5 mm., of the nucleus 0.1 to 0.5, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.1.

Physematium atlanticum, Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Curios., vol. xvi., Suppl., p. 286 (162), Taf. xxxviii. (xxviii.) figs. 1-3.

Spherical body opalescent, pearl-like, with a violet or purple lustre, very soft. Central capsule with a strong, semi-transparent membrane, its diameter six to eight times as large as that of the central spherical nucleus. Membrane of the nucleus very thick, porous, on its inside with many small nucleoli. In the protoplasmic network between the alveoles very numerous, small, purple oil-globules. On the inside of the membrane a continuous simple layer of small nuclei, enclosed in radially striped protoplasm (mother-cells of the spores?). No centripetal conical bodies. Extracapsular jelly-envelope very thin, with short pseudopodia. No xanthellæ. Spicule scattered in the jelly numerous, small needles, straight or slightly curved, thorny owing to numerous small vertical spinules. This species and Thalassolampe maxima (p. 17) possess the largest central capsule.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole jelly-sphere 8 to 12 mm., of the central capsule 5 to 10 mm., of the nucleus 1 to 2 mm., length of the spicula 0.1 to 0.3.

Habitat.—Eastern Atlantic, between Canary Islands and Cape Verde Islands, Meyen; Lanzerote, Haeckel.

Genus 10. Thalassoplancta,^[18] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 261.

Definition.—Thalassosphærida with numerous large alveoles in the calymma (but not in the central capsule), and with numerous simple, needle-shaped spicula around the central capsule.

The genus Thalassoplancta was founded by me in 1862 for a Radiolarian with simple hollow needles in the calymma, which was afterwards recognised as a Phæodarium, belonging to Cannorrhaphis. We here retain this name for a true Thalassosphærid, very similar to the latter, but distinguished by the absence of the phæodium and the solid—not hollow—needle-shaped spicula, which are scattered in the alveolated calymma. Thalassoplancta can be regarded as the solitary form of the social Belonozoum.^[19]

Spicula long and thin, cylindrical, smooth, more or less bent, pointed at both ends, similar to those of Thalassoplancta cavispicula. Central capsule thin-walled, without oil-globules, four times as broad as the nucleus, which encloses one single nucleolus.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.6, of the nucleus 0.15, of the calymma 4 mm.

Lampoxanthium brevispiculum, Haeckel, 1882, Atlas.

Spicula short and thick, thorny, irregularly curved, pointed at both ends, very numerous. In the observed specimen all spicula were aggregated in the outer part of the voluminous calymma, whilst the inner alveolated part was devoid of them. Central capsule thick walled, with a layer of large oil-globules on its inner surface, twice as broad as the large nucleus which contains numerous nucleoli.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.5, of the nucleus 0.2, of the calymma 2.5.

Genus 11. Lampoxanthium,^[20] n. gen.

Definition.—Thalassosphærida with numerous large alveoles in the calymma (but not in the central capsule), and with numerous branched or compound spicula in the calymma.

The genus Lampoxanthium differs from the foregoing, Thalassoplancta, by the composite form of the spicula, which are not simple needles, but radiate or geminate, or branched in different forms; the former stands therefore in the same relation to the latter as the social Belonozoum to Sphærozoum. The spicula of some species of Lampoxanthium are identical with those of some species of Sphærozoum, so that the latter may be derived from the former by forming colonies. The large central capsule is enveloped by a very voluminous alveolated calymma, and includes a large central nucleus with numerous nucleoli.

Subgenus 1. Lampoxanthella, Haeckel.

Spicula all (or nearly all) tetraradiate, with four thorny, straight, pointed shanks, radiating from one common point. (Intermingled with these are often some few, thorny, triradiate spicula.) On the inside of the capsule a layer of large oil-globules as in Thalassoplancta, Pl. 2, fig. 2.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.2, of the nucleus 0.08, of the calymma 0.8.

Subgenus 2. Lampoxanthomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula all (or nearly all) of one kind, geminate-radiate, with a simple middle rod and two to four diverging shanks on each end of it.

Spicula all geminate-triradiate, thorny, of the same form as in the common Sphærozoum punctatum, of which this species is the large solitary representative. The spicula are aggregated in a very condensed layer on the surface of the large calymma.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.8, of the nucleus 0.6, of the calymma 2.0.

Spicula all geminate-quadriradiate, with a very short simple middle rod and four very long divergent shanks on both ends of it; the shanks are smooth, five to ten times as long as the middle {38}rod, irregularly bent and curved. (Differs from the similar Thalassoxanthium octoceras, Pl. 2, fig. 6, by slender, more curved shanks, and by the voluminous calymma, there entirely wanting.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.5, of the nucleus 0.2, of the calymma 3.0.

Subgenus 3. Lampoxanthura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula of two or three different kinds, simple, radiate, and geminate-radiate mixed.

Spicula mixed, of three different kinds—simple, radiate and geminate-radiate; all three kinds partly smooth, partly thorny. The simple needles short, thin spindle-shaped, often curved. The radiate spicula commonly with three or four, rarely five or six, unequal rays, straight or curved. The radiate-geminate spicula commonly with three, rarely four, shanks on each end, often different on both ends of the middle rod. The size, number, and form of the irregular spicula are here quite as variable as in the social Rhaphidozoum pandora, of which it is the solitary representative. The wall of the large central capsule is very thick, with evident pore-canals, separated by a clear interval from the coagulated and vacuolated endoplasm, which contains no oil-globules. Nucleus with numerous nucleoli.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.5 to 0.6, of the nucleus 0.1 to 0.2, of the calymma 2 to 4 mm.

Family IV. Sphærozoida, Haeckel (Pl. 4).

The family Sphærozoida comprises all associated or colony-forming Radiolaria, which are provided with an imperfect skeleton, composed of numerous solid needles or spicula, scattered around the central capsule in the calymma. The structure and form of this skeleton is quite the same as in the preceding solitary Thalassosphærida, but on the other hand, the structure and form of the colonies and of the included numerous central capsules is the same as in the skeletonless Collozoida.

The oldest well-known form of Sphærozoida is the common cosmopolitan Sphærozoum punctatum, probably first observed in 1834 by Meyen, and called Sphærozoum fuscum, afterwards more accurately described by Huxley in 1851.

Other forms were afterwards described by Müller and by myself in 1862.^[21] Further investigations have shown me that some species of this family are among the most common Radiolaria, and occur in astonishing numbers on the surface of all warmer seas. But the number of species is comparatively small, and their distinction is very difficult, as all the different forms are very variable and connected by intermediate forms—a truly "transformistic" group.

The only character sufficient for the constitution of genera in this transformistic group is found in the form and composition of the spicula; the very variable form of the jelly-calymma and the enclosed central capsule being without value for this purpose. But also the form of the spicula is very variable, and not always constant. In some species the particular form of the spicula is transmitted by constant heredity, whilst in others it is very inconstant, even in one and the same individual. (Compare the remarks on variability in the general introduction.)

As the number of various forms is rather great, it seems to be advisable to distinguish the three following genera.

Synopsis of the Genera of Sphærozoida.

Genus 12. Belonozoum,^[22] n. gen.

Definition.—Sphærozoida with simple needle-shaped spicula, which are neither radiate nor branched.

The genus Belonozoum comprises the Sphærozoida with simple needle-shaped spicula, and may be regarded as the colonial form of Thalassosphæra or Thalassoplancta, derived from these solitary Beloidea by multiplication of the capsules and union in a common calymma.

Sphærozoum bacillosum, Haeckel, 1881, Manuscript.

Spicula all simple rods, straight cylindrical, obtuse at both ends, quite smooth. Central capsule pellucid, with one single central oil-globule.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.08 to 0.12, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.08.

Sphærozoum spinulosum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54, Taf. viii. fig. 4.

Sphærozoum spinulosum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 527, Taf. xxxiii. figs. 3, 4.

Spicula all simple rods, straight cylindrical, obtuse on both ends, thorny with numerous small spines, placed vertically on the rods.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.08 to 0.1, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.2.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, Nice, J. Müller; Messina, Haeckel; Naples, Brandt; surface.

Sphærozoum italicum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 526, Taf. xxxiii. figs. 1, 2.

Spicula all simple rods, more or less curved or bent, pointed at both ends, quite smooth. Central capsule with a variable number (commonly five to twenty) of oil-globules.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.1 to 0.3, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.2.

Sphærozoum atlanticum, Haeckel, 1881, Manuscript.

Spicula all together simple rods, more or less curved or bent, pointed at both ends, thorny from numerous small spines, placed vertically on the rods.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.1 to 0.2, length of the spicula 0.07 to 0.15.

Genus 13. Sphærozoum,^[23] Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Curios., Bd. xvi., Suppl., p. 287 (p. 163).

The genus Sphærozoum, with Physematium one of the two oldest Radiolaria, observed in the living state, was founded 1834 by Meyen for one of the social Beloidea, which was probably the common cosmopolitan Sphærozoum punctatum, the true type of this genus. Johannes Müller described a number of species, which were partly skeletonless (Collozoum), partly armed with simple or with compound spicula. The species with simple spicula we refer here to Belonozoum, the species with two or more different kinds of spicula to Rhaphidozoum, while we unite in Sphærozoum all species with one kind of branched or compound spicula. The two following species are incompletely known:—Sphærozoum orientale, Dana, 1863, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., vol. xii. p. 54. Sphærozoum sanderi, Dœnitz, 1871, L. N. 60, p. 71.

Subgenus 1. Sphærozonactis, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula radiate, not geminate, consisting of three, four, or more needles or shanks, radiating in different directions from one common central point.

Spicula all (or nearly all) triradiate, composed of three (or sometimes in few spicula four) needle-like shanks, diverging from one common point. Shanks straight or somewhat curved, smooth, pointed. Central capsules spherical, with one central oil-vesicle. This species may be regarded as the social form of Thalassoxanthium triactinium.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.1 to 0.12, length of the spicula-shanks 0.05 to 0.1.

Spicula all (or nearly all) quadriradiate, composed of four (or sometimes in few spicula three) needle-like shanks (mostly of unequal length), diverging from one common point. Shanks slightly curved, pointed, thorny, covered with small spinules. Central capsules ellipsoidal, containing several (four to eight) oil-vesicles. This species may be regarded as the social form of the solitary Thalassoxanthium medusinum (Pl. 2, fig. 5).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.15 to 0.18, length of the spicula-shanks 0.08 to 0.12.

Spicula all (or nearly all) quadriradiate, composed of four (or sometimes in few spicula three) needle-like shanks, mostly of very different size, diverging from one common point. Shanks strong, straight, curved, or hook-like; thorny, covered with small spinules on the distal extremity. Central capsules ellipsoidal, large, containing many (ten to twenty) oil-globules. This large species is distinguished by the very irregular form and size of the spicula.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.2 to 0.25, length of the spicula-shanks 0.12 to 0.18.

Spicula all (or nearly all) hexaradiate, composed of six (or sometimes in few spicula five or seven) needle-like shanks, mostly of equal size, diverging from one common point in two opposite hemispheres (three needles upwards, three needles downwards). Shanks somewhat curved, pointed, {42}smooth. Central capsules spherical, small, with one central oil-globule. This species may be regarded as the social form of Thalassoxanthium hexactinium.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.06 to 0.08, length of the spicula-shanks 0.05 to 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Sphærozonoceras, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula all geminate-radiate, consisting of one middle rod, which bears an equal and constant number of rays (two, three, or four) at each end.

Spicula all (or nearly all) geminate and simply forked, composed of a simple axial rod and two simple needle-like shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, pointed, smooth, commonly somewhat longer than the middle rod.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.1 to 0.15, length of the axial rod of the spicula 0.03, of its shanks 0.04 to 0.06.

Habitat.—Tropical zone of the Atlantic, near Ascension Island, Station 344, surface.

Spicula all (or nearly all) geminate and simply forked, composed of a simple axial rod and two simple needle-like shanks on each end of it. Shanks curved or bent, pointed, thorny, with many small spinules, commonly somewhat shorter than the middle rod.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.2 to 0.25, length of the axial rod of the spicula 0.1, of its shanks 0.05 to 0.08.

Sphærozoum ovodimare, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 527, Taf. xxxiii. figs. 5, 6.

Sphærozoum punctatum, var., Brandt, 1881, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. i. fig. 54.

Spicula all (or nearly all) geminate and triradiate, composed of a long simple axial rod and three simple needle-like shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, pointed, smooth, commonly shorter than the middle rod. (Often few furcate or four-rayed spicula are intermixed, or few spicula are not smooth, but thorny.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.05 to 0.2, length of the middle rod of the spicula 0.02 to 0.06, of its shanks 0.01 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, Naples, Messina, Haeckel; Atlantic, Canary Islands, Cape Verde Islands, West Coast of Africa, Stations 351 to 354; surface.

Spicula all (or nearly all) geminate-triradiate, composed of a short simple axial middle rod and three simple needle-like shanks on each end of it. Shanks curved or bent, very thin, smooth, commonly much longer than the middle rod. (Often few quadriradiate or few thorny triradiate spicules are interspersed among the others.)

Dimensions.—Length of the middle rod of the spicula 0.02 to 0.04, of its shanks 0.03 to 0.09.

Sphærozoum punctatum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54, Taf. viii. figs. 1, 2.

Sphærozoum punctatum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 528, Taf. xxxiii. figs. 7-9.

Sphærozoum fuscum, Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Cur., vol. xvi. Taf. xxxviii. fig. 7.

Thalassicolla punctata, Huxley, 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 434, pl. xvi. figs. 1, 2, 3.

Spicula all (or nearly all) geminate-triradiate, composed of a long simple axial middle rod and three simple needle-like shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, pointed, thorny, with many small spines, commonly somewhat shorter than the middle rod. (Often few furcate or four-rayed spicula are intermingled, or some of the spicula are smooth.) This cosmopolitan species is extremely variable, and produces interesting transitional forms to many other species of the genus. Compare also the general remarks on the genus, and the chapter on "Transformation" in the general introduction.

Dimensions.—Length of the middle rod of the spicula 0.02 to 0.06, of its shanks 0.01 to 0.05.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan, common in nearly all warmer seas, Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Pacific; surface.

Spicula all geminate-triradiate, with a stout and short middle rod and three arborescent shanks on each end of it. Shanks longer than the middle rod, very stout, straight, pine-shaped, with six to twelve irregular, spinulated, lateral branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.04 to 0.08, length of the middle rod of the spicula 0.02 to 0.03, of its shanks 0.05 to 0.08.

Spicula all together geminate-triradiate, with a simple stout middle rod and three arborescent shanks on each end of it. Shanks more or less curved, slender, pine-shaped, with four to eight short, thorny lateral branches. In all cœnobia of this remarkable species the central capsules are enclosed in large thick-walled alveoles (of three times their breadth), and in each alveole is placed besides {44}the capsule one single very large spiculum, whilst the others are much smaller (fig. 3). All the alveolated capsules are placed in one single stratum on the surface of the jelly-like spherical cœnobium, comparable to the blastoderm-cells of a blastula.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.08 to 0.1, of the alveoles 0.2 to 0.4, length of the spicula 0.1 to 0.3.

Spicula all geminate-triradiate, with a short simple middle rod and three much longer arborescent shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, slender, pine-shaped, each in the distal half with three to four elegant verticils of thorny lateral branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.1 to 0.12, middle rod of the spicula 0.03 to 0.05, shanks 0.1 to 0.15.

Spicula all geminate-quadriradiate, with a short simple middle rod and four diverging shanks on each end of it. Shanks smooth, irregularly curved or bent, three to six times as long as the middle rod. It may be regarded as the social form of Thalassoxanthium octoceras (Pl. 2, fig. 6).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.12 to 0.16, middle rod of the spicula 0.02, shanks 0.01.

Spicula all geminate-quadriradiate, with a long thick middle rod and four shorter diverging shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.06 to 0.08, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Spicula all geminate-quadriradiate, with stout straight middle rod and four longer diverging shanks on each end of it. Shanks arborescent, with six to twelve thorny lateral branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.1 to 0.15, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.1.

Spicula all geminate-quadriradiate, with a stout straight middle rod and four longer diverging shanks on each end of it. Shanks arborescent, pine-shaped, with four to six verticils of lateral branches, which again are ramified and thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.16 to 0.18, length of the spicula 0.1 to 0.2.

Subgenus 3. Sphærozonura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula all geminate-radiate, but with a different and variable number of shanks on each end of the middle rod.

Spicula all geminate-radiate, with a strong middle rod and a variable number of shorter radiating shanks on the two ends of it. Shanks straight, nearly conical, smooth; for the most part three or four shanks on each end, but sometimes also five or six; very often this number is unequal on the two ends.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.1 to 0.2, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Spicula all geminate-radiate, with a strong middle rod and a variable number of longer radiant shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, conical, in the distal half thorny; commonly either three or four shanks on each end of the middle rod, often also three on one end, four on the other end; rarely five or six rays on one end.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.15 to 0.2, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.1.

Spicula all geminate-radiate, with a very variable number of rays (two to six) on each end of the thin middle rod. All spicula very thin and delicate, smooth, with curved or bent shanks, densely covering the central capsule like a cobweb. The number of rays on each end is usually different, generally four or five, often also two or three, rarely six.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.1 to 0.2, length of the spicula 0.04 to 0.12.

Spicula all geminate-radiate, with a short middle rod and a variable number of shanks on each end of it. Shanks four to eight times as long as the middle rod, curved or bent, in the distal half thorny; their number is commonly different on the two ends of it, three or five, often also four or six, rarely two; their size and form very variable.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.1 to 0.3, length of the spicula 0.1 to 0.2.

Genus 14. Rhaphidozoum,^[24] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 529.

Definition.—Sphærozoida with two or more different kinds of spicula; one kind simple, needle-shaped; the other kinds compound, radiate, or branched.

The genus Rhaphidozoum differs from Sphærozoum by the composition of the skeleton of two or more different kinds of spicula, and has therefore the same relation to it as the solitary Lampoxanthura to Lampoxanthella.

In some species nearly all the different forms, which characterise the numerous species of Beloidea, may be united in one and the same individual.

Subgenus 1. Rhaphidonactis, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple, needle-shaped, the other radiate (composed of three, four, or more shanks, diverging from one common point).

Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple thin needles, a little curved or bent, the other kind triradiate, with three thin, curved shanks. Both kinds smooth, without thorns. Resembles a combination of Belonozoum italicum and Sphærozoum triactinium.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.1 to 0.12, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple needles, stout and straight, pointed at both ends, the other kind triradiate, with three straight and stout shanks. Both kinds thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsule 0.06 to 0.08, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.1.

Rhaphidozoum acuferum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 529, Taf. xxxii. figs. 9-11.

Sphærozoum acuferum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54, Taf. viii. fig. 3.

Thalassicolla acufera, J. Müller, 1855, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 237.

Spicula of two different kinds, simple needles and quadriradiate; both strong, thorny, covered with small spinules. Simple needles mostly curved, C-shaped. Four shanks of the quadriradiate {47}spicula now straight, now curved, commonly of very different size. (Often one single quadriradiate spiculum is distinguished by its extraordinary size.) For the detailed description of this species compare my Monograph (loc. cit.).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.05 to 0.35, length of the simple needles 0.05 to 0.25, shanks of the quadriradiate spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple, needle-like, the other quadriradiate; both very thin and slender, smooth, without spicules. Simple needles curved, C-shaped. Four shanks of the quadriradiate spicula also curved, commonly of nearly equal size. The numerous thread-like spicula of this species are so densely packed around the central capsule, that they extend all around its surface like the network round a balloon.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.12 to 0.15, length of the simple needles 0.1 to 0.12, shanks of the quadriradiate spicula 0.06 to 0.08.

Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple, needle-shaped, stout, and straight, the other kind hexaradiate; its six shanks about half as long as the former, conical. Both kinds very thorny, covered with short conical spinules.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.06 to 0.08, length of the simple needles 0.05 to 0.07, shanks of the hexaradiate spicula 0.03 to 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Rhaphidoceras, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple, needle-shaped, the other kind geminate-radiate, with rays on both poles of a middle rod.

Sphærozoum neapolitanum, C. Brandt, 1881, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 390, Taf. i. figs. 14, 16-18.

Spicula mixed, of two different kinds; simple needles and geminate-forked. Simple rods, like those of Belonozoum italicum, more or less curved, pointed at both ends, smooth (sometimes a little thorny at both ends). Geminate spicula simply forked, like those of Sphærozoum furcatum, composed of a short, simple, axial rod, and two simple, smooth, straight shanks on each end of it, commonly somewhat longer than the middle rod. This species, which I have observed myself in Spezzia in great quantity, is quite as variable as all the other species of the genus, and has not more claim to specific rights than the others. Commonly the simple needles are much more numerous {48}than the geminate-forked, but sometimes the contrary is the case. On their variability compare the general remarks on the genus, and the chapter on "Transformation" in the general introduction.

Dimensions.—Length of the simple spicula 0.05 to 0.1, of the middle rod of the forked spicule 0.05 to 0.08, of their shanks 0.01 to 0.03.

Spicula mixed, of two different kinds, simple needles and geminate-triradiate. Simple rods, like those of Belonozoum spinulosum, straight, thorny, pointed at both ends. Geminate spicula double-triradiate, like those of Sphærozoum punctatum, composed of a simple, short, axial rod and three simple pointed shanks on each end of it. Shanks straight, thorny, with many small spinules, commonly somewhat longer than the middle rod. (Often some of the spicula of both kinds are smooth, not thorny, or not straight, but a little curved, or a few forked or four-radiated geminate spicula are mingled with the others.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.08 to 0.2, length of the simple spicula 0.1 to 0.15, of the geminate 0.08 to 0.16.

Spicula mixed, of two different kinds, simple needles and geminate-triradiate; both kinds thin, smooth, without spinules. Simple needles somewhat curved, C- or S-shaped. Geminate spicula double-triradiate, composed of a simple, short, straight axial rod and three slender curved shanks on each end of it. Shanks two to four times longer than the middle rod. (Sometimes few simple hexaradiate and geminate tetraradiate spicula are mingled.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central capsules 0.12 to 0.15, length of the simple spicula 0.1, of the double-triradiate 0.05 to 0.2.

Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple, needle-shaped, straight, pointed at both ends, the other kind geminate-quadriradiate, with a stout short middle rod and four longer bent shanks on each end of it. Both kinds smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.2 to 0.25, length of the simple needles 0.01 to 0.3, of the geminate spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Spicula of two different kinds; one kind simple, needle-shaped, curved, thin; the other kind geminate, with a variable number of shanks on both ends of the shorter middle rod, often {49}different on the two poles of it. The prevalent number of rays on each end is three or four, often also two or five, rarely six. All spicula smooth, more or less bent.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsules 0.1 to 0.2, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Subgenus 3. Rhaphidonura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spicula of three different kinds: one kind simple, needle-shaped; the second kind radiate, with three to six shanks radiating from a common central point; the third kind geminate-radiate, with rays on both poles of a middle rod.

Spicula of three different kinds; simple needles, radiate, and geminate mixed. The simple needles straight and stout. The radiate spicula commonly with three or six, rarely four or five, rays. The geminate-radiate spicula prevalent, with three or four, rarely two or five, shanks on each end of the middle rod. Number very variable. All shanks straight and smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.1 to 0.2, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.15.

Spicula of three different kinds; simple needles, radiate and geminate mixed. The simple needles thin spindle-shaped, often curved. The radiate spicula commonly with three or four, rarely five or six, curved rays. The geminate-radiate spicula commonly with three or four, rarely two or five, shanks on each end, often different on the two ends of the middle rod. Number and form very variable. All or most of the shanks more or less bent and thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the capsule 0.1 to 0.3, length of the spicula 0.05 to 0.2.

Order II. SPHÆRELLARIA, Haeckel, 1881.

Sphærellaria, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 421.

Sphæridea vel Peripylea, Hertwig, 1879, Organismus der Radiol., p. 133.

The order Sphærellaria, the second order of Radiolaria, comprises all those Spumellaria in which the skeleton is a latticed or fenestrated, often more or less spongy, siliceous shell. Originally this shell is a simple extracapsular lattice-sphere, in which the central capsule is included; from this simple ancestral form an enormous {50}mass of different and often very complicated forms is derived; this order is by far the largest, and in morphological respects the most important and most interesting, of all Radiolaria. It contains not less than twenty-eight different families, three hundred and five genera, and more than sixteen hundred species.

In my Monograph (1862) seven families appertaining to this group are described—the Ethmosphærida, Cladococcida, Ommatida, Spongurida, Discida, Lithelida, and Collosphærida. The astonishing increase of this group by the detection of a large series of new and interesting forms, and particularly of important connecting forms between very different branches of it, now enables me to give a much better arrangement. I discern now four suborders or sections of Sphærellaria, according to the different geometrical form of the central capsule and of the latticed shell enveloping it. The first of these, and the common ancestral group of the whole order, is the Sphæroidea, with spherical capsule; in the Prunoidea it becomes ellipsoidal or cylindrical by prolongation of one axis; in the Discoidea lenticular or discoidal by shortening of one axis; in the Larcoidea lentelliptical, or triaxon-ellipsoid, by different growth of the capsule in three different "dimensive axes."

Synopsis of the Four Suborders of Sphærellaria.

Suborder I. SPHÆROIDEA, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spumellaria with spherical central capsule (very rarely somewhat modified, or allomorphous); with spherical fenestrated siliceous shell (often an endospherical polyhedron, very rarely of more modified, subspherical form or allomorphous). Growth of the shell in the three dimensive axes equal.

The suborder Sphæroidea, the first and most important of the four of the Sphærellaria, comprises those Spumellaria in which the original geometrical {51}spherical form is quite constantly preserved in the central capsule, and commonly also in the fenestrated shell enveloping the latter, although in many forms the sphere is more or less modified; very frequently it is an "endospherical polyhedron," i.e., a polyhedron all the angles (or the nodes of the network) of which lie upon the surface of a geometrical sphere; more rarely the spherical form is more or less modified and irregular. In the great majority of Sphæroidea there is no external indication of the three dimensive axes; but in many forms they are indicated by the regular position of certain external radial spines or internal radial beams. However, in no case are those three axes expressed in the form of the shell itself and of the enclosed spherical central capsule; this is the main character by which the Sphæroidea differ from the following sections:—Prunoidea, Discoidea, Larcoidea, all three of which arise from them.

The section Sphæroidea, in the sense here restricted, was founded by me in my Protistenreich (1878, p. 103) and adopted by Hertwig (1879) in his Organismus der Radiolarien (p. 39). The different groups appertaining to this large section were characterised more accurately in my Prodromus (1881, pp. 448-456); there I gave the characters of six subfamilies with thirty tribes, containing ninety-three genera. Formerly, in my Monograph (1862), the Sphæroidea were disposed in five different families:—Ethmosphærida, Cladococcida, Ommatida, Spongosphærida, Collosphærida. At that time I could not separate them sufficiently from some Acantharia and Phæodaria, which have a similar spherical lattice-shell.

As the number of different genera and species in the Sphæroidea is much greater than in all other sections of Spumellaria, many forms were already described by former authors. In the oldest system of Ehrenberg (1847, loc. cit., p. 53) they represent one part of his Haliommatina (with four genera, Haliomma, Chilomma, Stylosphæra, Spongosphæra). Most species, however, of these genera are Discoidea. Also in the latest system of Ehrenberg (1875, loc. cit., p. 157) his Haliommatina are a confused conglomeration of different Spumellaria (Sphæroidea, Discoidea, and Prunoidea).

The section Sphæroidea is the largest division of Sphærellaria, comprising not less than one hundred and seven genera and six hundred and fifty species. This enormous number (easily to be augmented by further investigations) requires a careful disposition in different families and subfamilies. For this disposition two different principles only can be employed: firstly, the number and disposition of the radial spines; secondly, the number of the concentric latticed spheres, which are connected by radial beams. I give here the preference to the first principle, whilst in my Prodromus (1881) I had preferred the second. The question, which of the two principles is more important for the classification of Sphæroidea, is very difficult to answer; probably in many cases the former, in many the latter is more important for their phylogeny.

Regarding the number of the concentric shells which compose the latticed carapace of the Sphæroidea, we can distinguish six families, viz.:—

On the other hand, regarding the number of the radial spines and their regular disposition on the shell-surface, we can distinguish five families, viz.:—

All five latter groups contain representatives of all six former groups; therefore we get together not less than thirty different subfamilies of Sphæroidea, already enumerated in my Prodromus, 1881, p. 449. I repeat them here to give a better survey of the system there employed.

The Monosphærida comprise all those Sphæroidea in which the carapace is represented only by one single lattice-shell. Originally this shell is probably everywhere an extracapsular or "cortical shell," which is developed on the outside of the jelly-veil enveloping the central capsule, and serves as a protective carapace for these soft enclosed parts. But with the progress of growth the central capsule becomes larger than the including shell, and sends out through its pores club-shaped prolongations or cæcal-sacs (Pl. 11, figs. 1, 5; Pl. 19, figs. 2, 3, 5; Pl. 20, fig. 1a; Pl. 27, fig. 3). These protruded sacs may fuse together again outside the shell and form a spherical bladder, now enveloping the smaller shell; the latter now becomes an intracapsular or "medullary shell."

As Pliosphærida (or Sphæroidea concentrica) we can oppose to the simple Monosphærida all other Sphæroidea, the lattice-shell of which is composed of two or more concentric shells, connected by radial beams. Probably all Pliosphærida (or at least the greater part of them) arise from the Monosphærida by centrifugal growth; two or more radial spines are developed from the surface of the simple lattice-sphere, and are united together by communicating lateral branches, developed at equal distances from the centre; and this same process may be repeated, two, three, four, or more times. In this way originate the characteristic systems of concentric spheres, all united by piercing radial beams which arise from the surface of the innermost sphere (not from its centre). Regarding this mode of growth, we can distinguish the innermost as "original" or "primary" shell, and all subsequent ones as "apposed" or "secondary" shells; if the number of concentric shells amount to three or more, commonly both innermost shells lie within the central capsule and are medullary shells, whilst all others lie outside it and are therefore cortical shells. This difference can be commonly recognised also in the isolated shell, without its central capsule; the distance between the cortical and the medullary shells being commonly much larger than the distance between the two medullary shells.

The Dyosphærida, or the Sphæroidea with two concentric shells, are the most numerous among the Pliosphærida. Commonly in this group the inner or primary shell lies within the central capsule as a true "medullary shell," whilst the outer lies outside it as a "cortical shell"; therefore the radial beams, connecting both, pierce the wall of the capsule. But in several forms, mainly in the peculiar group of Diplosphærida, both concentric shells remain outside the central capsule, and both are therefore "cortical shells."

The Triosphærida, or the Sphæroidea with three concentric shells, are also very rich in different forms, though not so numerous by far as the Dyosphærida. Commonly in the Triosphærida both inner shells lie within the central capsule as "medullary shells," whilst the third lies outside it as a "cortical shell"; therefore the central capsule remains intermediate in size between the outer and the middle shell. But in some genera (e.g., Rhodosphæra) both outer shells are cortical and only the {54}innermost is a medullary shell. In this case the size of the capsule remains intermediate between the inner and the middle shell.

The Tetrasphærida, or the Sphæroidea with four concentric shells, are in general not frequent, and not rich in different forms. In most of the observed species two inner shells are medullary, two outer cortical shells, the former within, the latter without, the central capsule; and the wall of the capsule, pierced by the connecting radial beams, lies between the two middle shells. But there are some Tetrasphærida in which all four shells seem to be external or cortical shells.

The Polysphærida, or the Sphæroidea with five or more concentric shells, seem of course to offer the greatest possibility for the development of very different forms; but in reality this group is the poorest and smallest of all; and only one part of it, the Arachnosphærida, is rather common. In this peculiar division the shell is composed of five to ten or more, very delicate, cobweb-like concentric shells, which are connected by radial beams; all are cortical shells, and lie outside the central capsule. Much more rare are those Polysphærida, in which both innermost shells, as true medullary shells, lie within the central capsule, all others being outside it. The total number of concentric shells in this group is commonly between five and ten, rarely more.

The Spongosphærida are distinguished from all other Sphæroidea by the spongy structure of the spherical shell, which is composed wholly or partially of an irregular spongy framework. The relation of this group to the other groups of Sphæroidea is probably rather complicated, for in some Spongosphærida the whole shell is composed of massive spongy reticulation, whilst in others it contains a spherical central cavity, and in a third group this cavity is filled up by one or two concentric lattice-shells, connected by radial beams. Many of these Spongosphærida are very common, and of considerable size.

The Collosphærida form a peculiar separate group of Sphæroidea, distinguished from all others by their social life or aggregation in colonies (cœnobia). They represent the only group of Sphærellaria in which this association of numerous individual capsules or cells is realised. The shell is almost constantly simple, without regularly disposed radial spines; therefore they may be called "social Monosphærida," or better "polyzoic Ethmosphærida." Only in one small group (Clathrosphærida) the shell, enveloping every central capsule, is double or surrounded by an external mantle; these may be compared to the Diplosphærida (or better to a part of the Carposphærida, Liosphæra, p. 76). In most of the Collosphærida the lattice-shell is more or less irregular in form and structure.

The Lattice Work of the fenestrated shells is in the Sphæroidea of the greatest variability, and its innumerable modifications serve mainly for the distinction of species. In general we can distinguish as the most important modifications a regular network (with equal size, form, and distance of the pores or meshes) and an irregular network (with {55}differences in the size, form, or distance of the meshes or pores). In both groups the pores may be either angular or round; so that there may exist together four different main forms of network—(A) regular lattice with equal hexagonal pores; (B) regular lattice with equal circular pores; (C) irregular lattice with unequal polygonal pores; (D) irregular lattice with unequal roundish pores. Besides these modifications, the pores may be prolonged into tubules which are directed radially towards the outside (rarely towards the inside) of the sphere. In other cases they are surrounded by elevated or honeycomb-like frames.

The Radial Spines exhibit in the Sphæroidea the greatest variety in form, size, disposition, &c., and their numerous modifications serve mainly for the distinction of genera, their peculiar formation and size also for the distinction of species. In general we may distinguish as the most important modifications primary and secondary spines. The primary spines or "main spines" are commonly direct outward prolongations of the internal radial beams, connecting the concentric shells. The secondary or "by-spines" arise only from the surface of the lattice-shell, without reference to the internal beams. The by-spines are commonly smaller, and much more numerous than the main spines. Regarding the form, the radial spines are either roundish (cylindrical or conical, often also club-shaped, rarely spindle-shaped) or angular (commonly three-sided, prismatic or pyramidal). The spines are constantly solid, never hollow; the "internal canals," described by some authors, are only microscopic views of the transparent edges. In many cases the spines are branched or forked. The most important difference in the variable shape of the spines is their regular or irregular number and disposition, which afford characters for the distinction of our five families.

The Three Dimensive Axes—or the three diameters of the sphere, perpendicular one to another—are in the great majority of the Sphæroidea significant in the promorphological consideration of the body, and are indicated either by the position of the external radial spines, or at least of the internal radial beams, connecting the concentric spheres. Commonly two radial spines are placed opposite in each axis. The most perfect group in this respect seems to be that of the Cubosphærida, in which the three axes are represented by three pairs of spines. Next come the Staurosphærida, in which two axes in cross-form are exhibited by two pairs of spines. The most simple group are the Stylosphærida, in which only one pair of spines is developed, indicating one single axis. These three families form together a continuous natural series,—the Sphæroidea with real dimensive axes,—and exhibit at the same time relations to the three other suborders of Sphærellaria, the Larcoidea, Discoidea, and Prunoidea respectively. At both ends of this series stand two other families, on one side the Liosphærida, without any radial spines on the surface of the sphere, on the other side the Astrosphærida, in which the radial spines are developed in great and variable numbers, at least eight to twelve, commonly twenty to forty, often more than a hundred or even a thousand.

The Liosphærida comprise all those Sphæroidea in which the surface of the shell is smooth, without radial spines (Pls. 12, 20). The simplest of these are the Ethmosphærida, with one single lattice-shell, enveloping the spherical central capsule. Cenosphæra, the most simple form of the Ethmosphærida, may be regarded as the common ancestral form of all Sphæroidea, in an ontogenetical as well as in a phylogenetical and morphological sense. From this simple lattice sphere all other Sphæroidea can be derived either by radial or by tangential growth. If the radial beams, arising from the surface of the simple fenestrated sphere, become connected (at equal distances from the centre) by tangential beams, we get the compound shells of the "Liosphærida concentrica" (with two, three, four, or more concentric spheres). The radial beams connecting these exhibit in many Liosphærida the same regular disposition and number as the external radial spines in the Astrosphærida. Perhaps these forms in a "natural system" would be better united (e.g., Liosphærida with twelve or twenty internal radial beams, and Astrosphærida with twelve or twenty external radial spines); but in many cases (mainly for higher numbers) the certain determination of their number and disposition is very difficult or quite impossible.

The Cubosphærida (Pls. 21-25) represent the large and very important family of Sphæroidea, in which all three dimensive axes are equally distinguished by pairs of spines, corresponding to three axes of a cube or of a regular octahedron, agreeing therefore also with the three axes of the cubic or regular crystalline system. In the majority of the Cubosphærida the six radial spines are accurately opposite each other in pairs in three axes, perpendicular one to another, and commonly they are of equal size and form; but in some genera the three pairs of spines become differentiated, whilst both spines of each pair remain equal. Either one pair is larger than the two others (which are equal), corresponding to the axes of the quadratic crystalline system; or all three pairs are different (corresponding to the three unequal axes of the rhombic crystalline system); the former nearer to the Discoidea, the latter to the Larcoidea. We may suppose with some probability, that the Cubosphærida are for the most part the common ancestral group of those Sphæroidea, in which a certain number of radial spines or beams is disposed in a regular order; the Staurosphærida may be derived from them by loss of one pair of spines, the Stylosphærida by loss of two pairs of spines, and most Astrosphærida by multiplying the radial spines, six to fourteen or more secondary spines being added to the six primary "dimensive spines." However, in many Astrosphærida (e.g., in those with eight spines, Centrocubus, Octodendron, &c.) the regular geometrical disposition of the radial spines seems to follow another mathematical order, quite independent of the Cubosphærida.

The Staurosphærida (Pl. 15) are distinguished by the possession of four radial spines, opposite in pairs in two axes, perpendicular one to another. This rectangular cross determines a certain plane, the "equatorial plane," and this brings the Staurosphærida near {57}to the Discoidea, mainly to those which also bear on the periphery of the circular equatorial plane four crossed spines (such as Staurodisculus, Stethostaurus, Staurodictya, &c.). But in these cruciform Discoidea the shell and the enclosed central capsule are discoidal or lenticular, whilst in the Staurosphærida they remain spherical. Commonly the cross is quite regular, with four right angles and four equal beams; but often also it becomes more or less irregular. In some genera one pair of equal opposite spines is larger than the other pair. These forms represent the three different axes of the rhombic crystal system, whilst the common regular Staurosphærida represent those of the quadratic crystal system. The latter can be derived from the Cubosphærida (representing the regular crystal system) by reduction of one axis and loss of its pair of spines. In general the number of species (and particularly of the individuals) is much smaller in the Staurosphærida than in all other families of Sphæroidea.

The Stylosphærida (Pls. 13-17) can be derived from the Cubosphærida by reduction of two dimensive axes and loss of two pairs of spines. Therefore, here one pair of spines only is developed, opposite in one single axis. This "monaxonial" form brings the Stylosphærida very near to the ellipsoidal Prunoidea (mainly to many two-spined forms of Ellipsida and Druppulida); but they differ from these by the spherical (not ellipsoidal) form of the central capsule and of the enclosing lattice-shell. In the greater part of the Stylosphærida both spines are of equal size and form, accurately opposite in the "main axis." But in many forms both spines become unequal in size or form, often very different. More rarely they are not accurately opposed, but placed in two different axes, intersecting at a small variable angle. The small group of Saturnalida presents a very remarkable and peculiar structure, in which both spines (at equal distances from the centre) are united by a circular or elliptical ring (Pl. 13, figs. 15, 16; Pl. 16, figs. 16, 17).

The Astrosphærida are distinguished from the other Sphæroidea by the great and variable number of their external radial spines (Pls. 11, 18-20, 26-30). Commonly this number amounts to from twelve to twenty, rarely to only eight to ten, very often to thirty-two to forty or more; in many species more than one hundred are present. As already mentioned above, it would be important to distinguish between primary spines (as outer prolongations of the inner radial beams) and secondary spines (developed from the surface of the shell), but in many cases this distinction is difficult or impossible. More practical is the distinction between larger "main spines" and smaller "by-spines." The size and form of the radial spines is extremely variable. Much more important is their number and disposition. In general we can here distinguish the following different cases:—(A) radial spines are developed from all the nodal points of the network on the shell surface; (B) the number of the spines is smaller than that of the nodal points, but they are irregularly scattered; (C) the radial spines exhibit a limited number and a certain regular disposition. In this latter case the following modes of distribution seem to be the most important:—(a) eight spines placed in the four diagonal axes of the {58}regular cube (Pl. 18, figs. 1-3); (b) twelve spines (placed in the corner axes of the regular icosahedron); (c) fourteen spines (six placed in the three dimensive axes of the regular octahedron, eight in the centres of its eight faces); (d) twenty spines (placed either in the same order as in many Larcoidea and Acantharia [?], or in the twenty corners of the regular dodecahedron); (e) thirty-two spines (twelve placed in the twelve corners of the regular icosahedron, twenty in the centre of its triangular faces). Besides these most important and quite geometrical modes of disposition there also seem to occur in the Astrosphærida the following subregular (or symmetrical?) modes: 9, 10, 16, 18, 24, 40, 60, 80. But it is very difficult to give a correct account of these modes. In every case this manifold and regular disposition of the radial spines is of the highest interest for the study of general "Promorphology."

The Central Capsule is in all Sphæroidea (without any exception) a perfect sphere in the geometrical sense, even in those forms in which the enclosing lattice-shell is more or less irregular (i.e., many Collosphærida). This is the most important character, which separates the Sphæroidea from all other Sphærellaria. For in the Prunoidea the capsule is ellipsoidal, with one prolonged axis; in the Discoidea lenticular, with one shortened axis; in the Larcoidea lentelliptical, with three different dimensive axes. The central capsule is originally always enclosed by the lattice-shell; but in many cases with increasing growth this relation becomes inverted; the capsule sending out many club-shaped blind sacs through the meshes of the lattice-shell, and these melting together outside the latter, a new membrane is formed, enclosing a "medullary shell."

The Nucleus of the cell exhibits a very different shape in the solitary and the social Sphæroidea. In the solitary or monozoic Sphæroidea the centre of the central capsule is occupied by a large spherical concentric nucleus, with or without nucleoli; also this nucleus is originally always within the innermost lattice-shell, but with increasing size may overgrow and enclose it. A short time before the formation of the vibratile spores the central nucleus becomes resolved into many small nuclei. In the social or polyzoic Sphæroidea—the Collosphærida—commonly the simple central nucleus very early (a long time before the formation of the spores) is divided into a great number of small nuclei, whilst the centre of the capsule becomes filled with a large oil-globule. Therefore we find the same difference between the solitary and social forms in the Sphæroidea as in the Colloidea. Here also the calymma, or the jelly-mantle, enveloping the central capsule, is in the social forms very large and voluminous, differentiated into alveoles, whilst in the solitary forms it is much smaller, without alveoles.

Synopsis of the Families of Sphæroidea.

Family V. Liosphærida, Haeckel, 1881.

Definition.—Sphæroidea without radial spines on the surface of the spherical shell; living solitary (not associated in colonies).

The family Liosphærida comprises all those solitary Sphæroidea in which the surface of the spherical shell is not armed with radial spines. Nearly the half of this large group is formed by the Ethmosphærida, in which the carapace is a quite simple, spherical lattice-shell; this subfamily is probably the common ancestral group from which all other Sphæroidea, or even all Sphærellaria, can be derived in a phylogenetical as well as in a morphological sense. The central capsule in this first subfamily is constantly enclosed by the fenestrated shell, and separated from it by the jelly-veil. The shell is therefore an extracapsular or medullary shell.

To these simple Ethmosphærida all other subfamilies can be opposed as "Liosphærida concentrica," as their carapace is composed of two or more concentric lattice-shells; two in the Carposphærida, three in the Thecosphærida, four in the Cromyosphærida, five or more in the Caryosphærida. In all these four subfamilies the concentric shells are simple (not spongy) fenestrated shells. In a sixth subfamily, in the Plegmosphærida, the shell is wholly or partially composed of spongy wicker-work, with or without a latticed medullary shell in the centre.

The internal radial beams, in the "Liosphærida composita" connecting the concentric spheres, exhibit in their number and disposition similar important differences, such as the external radial spines in the Astrosphærida. The following eight {60}different cases of regular disposition were observed:—(A) two opposite beams in one axis; (B) four beams, opposite in pairs in two axes perpendicular one to another; (C) six beams, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes; (D) eight beams, opposite in pairs in the four diagonals of the regular cube; (E) twelve beams corresponding to the twelve axes of the regular icosahedron; (F) fourteen beams quite regularly disposed (six corresponding to the three axes of the regular octahedron, eight to the central points of its faces); (G) twenty beams (probably corresponding to the twenty corners of a regular dodecahedron); (H) thirty-two beams, regularly disposed. Rarely the number of the radial beams is intermediate between these eight cases, and rarely it is higher; then commonly the disposition is irregular. The regularity of their disposition in the great majority of cases is very remarkable and evident.

Synopsis of the Genera of Liosphærida.

Subfamily Ethmosphærida,^[25] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 348 (sensu restricto).

Definition.—Liosphærida with one single spherical lattice-shell; living solitary, not aggregated in colonies.

Genus 15. Cenosphæra,^[26] Ehrenberg, 1854, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 237.

Definition.—Liosphærida with one single latticed sphere, with simple shell-pores (not prolonged into free tubuli) and with simple shell-cavity (without internal radial beams).

The genus Cenosphæra is the most simple form of all Sphæroidea, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form of this order. The siliceous latticed shell, in which the central capsule is enclosed, represents a simple regular sphere, with simple cavity. The pores of the shell-wall are simple, not prolonged into radial tubuli (as in Ethmosphæra and Sethosphæra). According to the different form of the pores, the numerous species of this genus can be disposed in four different subgenera. Some species may be easily confounded with isolated shells of the corresponding social Collosphæra; but in this latter the spherical shell-form is commonly more or less irregular, in Cenosphæra quite regular.

Subgenus 1. Phormosphæra, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 448.

Definition.—Pores of the shell regular or subregular, hexagonal or circular, with hexagonal frames or lobes; all nearly of equal size and form.

Shell very thin walled, smooth. Pores hexagonal, regular, or subregular; twelve to fifteen on the half meridian of the shell; bars between them extremely delicate (only visible when three hundred or four hundred times enlarged). Diameter of the shell nine to ten times that of the meshes. This species is remarkable for the extreme delicacy of the arachnoidal network of the simple spherical shell; it may be regarded as the common ancestral form of all Sphæroidea. The shell equals that of Heliosphæra tenuissima (figured in my Monograph, 1862, pl. ix. fig. 2), but differs from it by the smooth surface and the absence of all spines or thorns. I observed this species living in the Indian Ocean, near Ceylon, in 1882; the spherical diameter of the central capsule is about one-third of that of the shell; the contents of the central capsule are colourless {62}and transparent, except the central dark globular nucleus. The same shells also occur in some mounted preparations of surface organisms from the Challenger.

Habitat.—Indian Ocean, Ceylon, Haeckel; Central Pacific, Stations 266, 271, surface.

Heliosphæra inermis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 351, Taf. ix. fig. 1.

Surface of the thin-walled shell smooth. Pores regular, hexagonal, twelve to fifteen times as broad as the bars, seven to nine on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08 to 0.12, pores 0.012 to 0.015, bars 0.001.

Surface of the thick-walled shell smooth. Pores regular, hexagonal, five to six times as broad as the bars, six to eight on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.15, pores 0.01 to 0.012, bars 0.002.

Surface of the thick-walled shell smooth. Pores regular, circular, with thin hexagonal frames, four times as broad as the bars, six to eight on the quadrant.

Surface of the thick-walled shell rough. Pores regular, circular, with thin hexagonal frames, three times as broad as the bars, ten to twelve on the quadrant.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel (Gulf Stream), John Murray, surface.

Surface of the thick-walled shell smooth. Pores regular, circular, with thick hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars, ten to twelve on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, rough. Pores regular, circular, with thin hexagonal frames, of the same breadth as the bars, twenty to twenty-two on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, papillate. Pores regular, circular, double-edged, with thick hexagonal frames, of the same breadth as the bars; a short conical papilla in the corner of each hexagon; fourteen to sixteen pores on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, papillate. Pores regular, circular, with an elegant six-lobed frame and a coronal of six short papillæ; the latter alternating with the six lobes (quite as in Pl. 28, fig. 1b). Pores twice as broad as the bars, ten to twelve on the quadrant.

Shell thin walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, with an elegant six-lobed outer opening, without papillæ. Pores of the same breadth as the bars, six to eight on the quadrant.

Subgenus 2. Circosphæra, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell regular or subregular, circular, without hexagonal frames or lobes, all nearly of equal size and form.

Cenosphæra porophæna, Ehrenberg, 1858, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 31.

Shell thin walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, six to eight times as broad as the bars, five to six on the quadrant.

Cenosphæra setosa, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 287, Taf. vii. fig. 1.

Shell thin walled, covered with very short and numerous bristles. Pores regular, circular, five to six times as broad as the bars, six to eight on the quadrant.

Habitat.—West Tropical Pacific, 3300 fathoms; Philippine Sea, Station 200, depth 250 fathoms.

Cenosphæra plutonis, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxv. B, B. iv. fig. 20.

Shell thin walled, covered with short conical papillæ. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, eight to nine on the quadrant.

Shell thin walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars, five to six on the quadrant.

Shell thin walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars, eleven to twelve on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, double-edged, five times as broad as the bars, sixteen to eighteen on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, rough. Pores regular, circular, double-edged, twice as broad as the bars, twelve to fourteen on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, twenty-four to twenty-five on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, thirty to thirty-three on the quadrant.

Habitat.—West Tropical Pacific, Station 225, depth 4475; also fossil in Barbados.

Shell very thick walled, rough (its wall one-fourth to one-third as thick as the radius). Pores subregular, circular, of the same breadth as the bars, seven to eight on the quadrant.

Cenosphæra radiata, Zittel, 1876 (L. N. 29, p. 84, Taf. ii. figs. 7, 8), a fossil Cretaceous species, is closely allied to Cenosphæra compacta.

Shell very thick walled, rough (its wall nearly half as thick as the radius). Pores tubular, double-edged, regular, circular, ten times as broad as the thin united bars, twelve to fourteen on the quadrant.

Shell very thick walled, covered with innumerable short bristles (its wall one-third as thick as the radius). Pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars, tubular, eight to ten on the quadrant.

Subgenus 3. Cyrtidosphæra, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 348.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregularly polygonal, of unequal size or form, sometimes roundish with polygonal frames.

Cyrtidosphæra reticulata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 349, Taf. xi. fig. 2.

Shell very thin walled, smooth. Pores irregular, polygonal, two to eight times as broad as the bars, fifteen to twenty on the quadrant (groups of four to eight smaller meshes are scattered on the surface, and separated by reticular rows of larger meshes).

Shell extremely thin walled, smooth, like a cobweb. Pores very irregular and small, polygonal with thread-like bars, thirty to forty on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, pores 0.002 to 0.008, bars under 0.001.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, polygonal pores, three to four times as broad as the bars, eight to ten on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, covered with short conical papillæ. Pores irregular, polygonal, three to five times as broad as the bars, fourteen to sixteen on the quadrant.

Shell thick walled, rough. Pores irregular, roundish, surrounded by polygonal crested frames two to three times as broad as the bars, eight to twelve on the quadrant.

Ceriosphæra perforata, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas, loc. cit.

Shell thick walled, rough. Pores irregular, roundish, surrounded by high polygonal funnel-shaped frames, which are solid in the inner half, perforated by numerous very small pores in the {67}outer half, sieve-shaped. Pores one to three times as broad as the bars, of very different size, four to six on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.005 to 0.01.

Shell thick walled, rough. Pores irregular, roundish, surrounded by high polygonal frames bearing on their sharp crest a series of small papillæ, so that each pore is surrounded by a coronal of such spinules. Pores four to eight times as broad as the bars, four to five on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.002 to 0.008.

Subgenus 4. Porosphæra, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregular, roundish, without polygonal frames, of unequal size or form.

Cenosphæra plutonis, var., Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 25, Taf. iv. figs. 47, 48.

Cenosphæra plutonis, var., Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr. xxvi. p. 85, Taf. i. fig. 1.

Shell thin walled, smooth. Pores irregular, roundish, two to eight times as broad as the bars, ten to fifteen on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15 to 0.2, pores 0.007 to 0.015, bars 0.002 to 0.008.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Tertiary formations; living in the depths of the Atlantic and Pacific; Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms; Station 225, depth 4475 fathoms, &c.

Shell thick walled, smooth. Pores irregular, roundish, two to five times as broad as the bars, thirty to forty on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.4 to 0.5, pores 0.004 to 0.01, bars 0.002.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Shell very thick walled, smooth. Pores irregular, roundish, double-edged, three to eight times as broad as the bars, six to eight on the quadrant.

Cenosphæra aspera, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr. Bd. xxvi. p. 85, Taf. i. fig. 2.

Shell thick walled, rough, covered with short conical papillæ. Pores irregular, roundish, of about the same breadth as the bars, eight to twelve on the quadrant.

Cenosphæra hirsuta, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss., Berlin, p. 287, Taf. x. fig. 18.

Shell thin walled, rough, covered with innumerable very short bristles. Pores very irregular, roundish, of about the same breadth as the bars.

Genus 16. Stigmosphæra,^[27] Haeckel, n. gen.

Definition.—Liosphærida with one single latticed sphere, with simple shell-pores (not prolonged into free tubuli); in the central point of the spherical shell-cavity are united a number of radial beams, which become forked and inserted into the inner surface of the shell by their distal ends.

The genus Stigmosphæra differs from Cenosphæra (and from all other Monosphærida) by internal radial beams, which are united in the centre of the simple spherical shell; these beams are branched, and the distal ends of the branches inserted on the internal surface of the shell. I have observed only two, nearly identical specimens of this genus, both with regular, hexagonal pores and thin bars; the beams were implanted in the corners of the hexagons. In one specimen the surface was covered with short radial bristles, whilst these in the other specimen were prolonged into radial spines (like Acanthosphæra). Possibly this peculiar genus is derived from Carposphæra, by reduction and loss of a central medullary shell.

Shell very thin walled, rough, with regular circular, hexagonally framed pores, six times as broad as the bars, eight to ten on the quadrant; in the corner of each hexagon a small bristle. In {69}the central point of the shell are united about twelve (?) thin and straight radial beams, which are forked, with dichotomous branches; the distal ends of the branches are inserted in the corners of the hexagons on the inside of the shell.

Genus 17. Ethmosphæra,^[28] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 349.

Definition.—Liosphærida with one single latticed sphere, with simple shell-cavity; with shell-pores which are prolonged on the outside in centrifugal, conical, or cylindrical tubuli.

The genus Ethmosphæra differs from the simple Cenosphæra, its ancestral form, by the peculiar formation of the shell-pores; in all observed species of the genus these are quite regular, of nearly equal size and form; their base in the spherical shell-face is hexagonal, but on the outside prolonged into centrifugal, external, radial tubuli, which are either conical or cylindrical (in the latter case both openings of the tubes being equal, in the former the outer opening being smaller than the inner). The solitary Ethmosphæra corresponds to the social Siphonosphæra; but in the former the formation of the shell and of its tubuli is quite regular, in the latter more or less irregular.

Subgenus 1. Ethmosphærella, Haeckel.

Ethmosphæra siphonophora, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 350, Taf. xi. fig. 1.

Tubuli conical, their outer opening half as broad as the inner and three times as broad as their height. Five to six pores on the quadrant. Diameter of the outer pores one and a half times as large as their distance from each other.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, outer pores 0.01, their distance 0.007.

Tubuli conical, their outer opening two thirds as broad as the inner, and scarcely broader than their height. Ten to twelve pores on the quadrant. Diameter of the outer pores twice as large as their distance from each other.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.17, outer pores 0.01, their distance 0.005.

Tubuli conical, their outer opening three-fourths as broad as the inner and three times as broad as their height. Sixteen to eighteen pores on the quadrant. Diameter of the outer pores three times as large as their distance apart.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, outer pores 0.008, their distance 0.003.

Habitat.—West Tropical Pacific, Station 225, depth 4475 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados and in Sicily.

Subgenus 2. Ethmosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Tubuli cylindrical, their outer opening about as large as the inner.

Tubuli cylindrical, short, quite contiguous, so that their diameter is six times as large as their distance apart, but about equal to their height. Nine to ten pores on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, outer pores 0.012, their distance 0.002.

Tubuli cylindrical, twice as long as broad, very thick-walled, and nearly contiguous, so that their diameter is five times as large as their distance apart. The thickness of their wall is equal to their lumen. Twelve to fourteen pores on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, outer pores 0.01, their distance 0.002.

Tubuli cylindrical, short, about as long as broad, very thin-walled and fragile, separated by wide distances, which are three times as large as their diameter. Six to seven pores on the quadrant. (Very similar to Siphonosphæra cyathina, Pl. 6, fig. 10, but quite regular, all tubuli retaining the same size and distance.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, outer pores 0.01, their distance 0.03.

Tubuli cylindrical, very elongated, four times as long as broad; their bases separated by distances which are equal to their breadth. Eight to ten tubuli on the quadrant. (The tubes are similar to those of Siphonosphæra serpula, Pl. 6, fig. 6, but quite regular, straight, not curved, all of the same size and at equal distances apart.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, length of the tubes 0.04, breadth 0.01, basal distance 0.01.

Genus 18. Sethosphæra,^[29] Hæckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452 (sensu emendato).

Definition.—Liosphærida with one single latticed sphere, with simple shell-cavity; with shell-pores, which are prolonged on the inside into centripetal, conical, or cylindrical tubuli.

The genus Sethosphæra differs from its ancestral form, Cenosphæra, by the production of internal, centripetal, radial tubuli on the inside of the shell (the contrary of the preceding genus Ethmosphæra). It corresponds therefore to the social Pharyngosphæra; but in the latter the formation of the shell and its tubes is more or less irregular, whilst in the former each regular pore is prolonged into a regular tubule.

Shell with smooth surface and regular circular pores, separated by hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars. Six to eight on the quadrant. Each pore is prolonged on the inside of the shell in a short conical centripetal tube, twice as long as its diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, outer pores 0.008, bars 0.004, length of the tubuli 0.015.

Shell with smooth surface and regular circular pores, without hexagonal frames, of about the same breadth as the bars. Ten to twelve on the quadrant. Each pore is prolonged on the inside of the shell into a thin cylindrical centripetal tube, three times as long as its diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, outer pores and bars 0.006, length of the tubuli 0.02.

Subfamily Carposphærida,^[30] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 449.

Definition.—Liosphærida with two concentric spherical lattice-shells, which are united by radial beams.

Definition.—Liosphærida with one medullary (intracapsular) and one cortical (extracapsular) shell, both connected by radial beams piercing the central capsule.

The genus Carposphæra comprises a large number of double-shelled Sphæroidea, formerly united with Haliomma, but different from this genus by the absence of radial spines. The shell is composed of two concentric latticed spheres, the inner of which (or the medullary shell) is situated within the central capsule, the other (or the cortical shell) outside it. Both shells are connected by radial beams which pierce the wall of the central capsule. The distance between the shells is at least as large as (commonly much larger than) the radius of the inner shell, whilst in the following genus, Liosphæra, that distance is much smaller than this radius.

Subgenus 1. Melittosphæra, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, hexagonal (or circular, with hexagonal frames or lobes), all of nearly equal size and form.

Cortical shell very delicate, four times as broad as the similarly constructed medullary shell, with regular hexagonal meshes (twenty to twenty-five on the quadrant) and very thin thread-like bars. Both shells connected by twenty (?) very thin radial beams. (Similar to Heliosoma radians, Pl. 28, fig. 3, 3a, but with smooth surface, without any radial spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.05, pores 0.01, bars below 0.001.

Cortical shell smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars. Eight to ten pores on the quadrant. Medullary shell with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Both shells connected by six radial beams, which are three-sided prismatical, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; outer pores 0.01, inner 0.005.

Haliomma infundibuliforme, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr. Bd. xxvi. p. 87, Taf. i. fig. 6.

Cortical shell very thick-walled, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, with rough surface and regular hexagonal, funnel-shaped pores, of about the same breadth as the bars. Five to six on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, inner 0.04, outer pores and bars 0.01.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Station 354; fossil in Tertiary rocks (Barbados and Sicily).

Cortical shell thick walled, four times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars. Eight to ten pores on the quadrant. Medullary shell with simple circular pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, inner 0.04, outer pores 0.012, bars 0.004.

Melitomma melittosphæra, Haeckel, 1881; Prodromus et Atlas, loc. cit.

Cortical shell thick walled, with thorny surface, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Its pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, elegantly six-lobed, separated by crested hexagonal frames; in each hexagon-corner a short conical papilla (alternating with a lobe). Eight to ten pores on the quadrant. Medullary shell with small simple circular pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.17, inner 0.07, outer pores 0.01, bars 0.005, inner pores 0.005.

Subgenus 2. Cerasosphæra, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, circular, without hexagonal frames, all of nearly equal size and form.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, twice as broad as the medullary shell; both with regular circular pores, six times as broad as the bars. Twelve to fifteen pores on the quadrant. Outer pores twice as large as the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.24, inner 0.12; outer pores 0.016, inner 0.008.

? Haliomma apiculatum, Ehrenberg, 1872; Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 313.

Cortical shell thin-walled, covered with numerous short conical thorns, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars. Six to eight pores on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05, outer pores 0.012, bars 0.03.

Habitat.—North Pacific, California, depth 2000 fathoms; Station 254, depth 3025 fathoms.

Haliomma entactinia, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxvi. fig. 4.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, twice as broad as the medullary shell; both shells with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Six to eight pores on the quadrant. Outer pores half as broad as the inner. Both shells connected by very numerous (twenty-four to forty-eight or more) radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.06, outer pores 0.008, bars 0.004, inner pores 0.004.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Atlantic and Pacific, in various depths; fossil in Barbados and Sicily.

Haliomma modestum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr. Bd. xxvi. p. 86, Taf. i. fig. 5.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular circular pores of the same breadth as the bars. Eight to twelve pores on the quadrant. (Very common, like the preceding species, and connected with it by numerous intermediate forms.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12 to 0.2, inner 0.04 to 0.07, pores and bars 0.006 to 0.008.

Habitat.—Atlantic and Pacific, from many Stations and at various depths; fossil in Barbados and Sicily.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, five times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular circular pores of the same breadth as the bars. Twenty to twenty-two pores on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.3, inner 0.06, outer pores and bars 0.004.

Cortical shell very thick walled, rough, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with regular circular pores half as broad as the bars. Eight to ten pores on the quadrant.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.06, outer pores 0.03, bars 0.006.

Subgenus 3. Prunosphæra, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular polygonal, of unequal size or dissimilar form.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, four times as broad as the medullary shell, with large irregular polygonal pores, four to eight times as broad as the bars. Connecting beams between them numerous.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.24, inner 0.06, outer pores 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.002.

Cortical shell thin walled, rough, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular polygonal pores, three to six times as broad as the bars. Connecting beams between the two shells twenty, regularly disposed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05, outer pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.003.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular polygonal pores, two to four times as broad as the bars. Connecting beams between the two shells six, opposite by pairs in the three dimensive axes. (Similar to Hexalonche aristarchi, Pl. 22, fig. 3, but without external radial spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.04, outer pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.005.

Subgenus 4. Phœnicosphæra, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular roundish, of unequal size or form.

Haliomma nobile, Ehrenberg, 1844, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 268; Abhandl., 1875, Taf. xxvii. fig. 6.

Cortical shell thin walled, rough, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, inner 0.05, outer pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.006.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, at various depths; fossil in Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Tertiary rocks.

Cortical shell thin walled, rough, seven times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular roundish pores, three to six times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.03, outer pores 0.012 to 0.025, bars 0.004.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, five times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular roundish pores, of about the same breadth as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.4, inner 0.08, pores and bars 0.004 to 0.008.

Anthomma nodosum, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas, loc. cit.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with forty to fifty scattered pyramidal nodules, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, connected with it by very numerous thin radial beams. Outer and inner pores irregular roundish or polygonal, two to three times as broad as the bars. (This species in consequence of the cortical nodules may represent a peculiar genus, analogous to Conosphæra, called Anthomma.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.13, inner 0.05, inner and outer pores 0.008 to 0.012, bars 0.004.

Genus 20. Liosphæra,^[32] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 449.

Definition.—Liosphærida with two cortical (extracapsular) shells (without a medullary or intracapsular shell).

The genus Liosphæra agrees with the preceding Carposphæra in the possession of two concentric latticed spheres; but whilst in the latter genus the inner sphere is a medullary one (intracapsular), the outer a cortical shell (extracapsular), both connected by radial beams piercing the capsule-wall, here in Liosphæra the central capsule lies freely within the inner lattice shell and is not pierced by radial beams. Therefore both shells are here cortical shells, both separated by a distance, which is constantly much smaller than the radius of the inner shell; whereas in Carposphæra this distance is at least as large as that radius (commonly much larger). In Carposphæra the number of pores in both shells is never the same; in several species of Liosphæra this number is the same, each outer regular hexagonal pore exactly corresponding to an inner; the six corners of each connected by six short radial beams.

Subgenus 1. Melitomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of both shells regular, in each shell all of nearly equal size and form.

Both shells with the same number of pores, exactly corresponding, about ten on the quadrant. {77}All pores regular, or subregular, hexagonal; the outer twice as broad as the inner. Outer bars very thin, thread-like; inner bars thick, one-third as broad as the pores. Surface smooth. Both shells connected by numerous radial beams, their distance one-third as large as the radius of the inner shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, inner 0.12, distance of both 0.02; outer pores 0.014, inner pores 0.007.

Both shells with the same number of pores, exactly corresponding, about twelve on the quadrant. All pores regular or subregular; the inner circular, with elegant six-lobed frames, twice as broad as the bars; the outer hexagonal, with very thin thread-like bars. All corners of the outer and inner hexagons connected by thin, bristle-shaped radial beams. (Similar to Haliomma rhodococcus, Pl. 19, fig. 6; but with smooth surface and regular hexagonal pores of the outer shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.16, distance of both 0.02; outer pores 0.03, inner 0.01.

Both shells with regular hexagonal pores; their number in the outer shell seven times as great as in the inner. Pores of the stout inner shell large, three times as broad as the bars, about eight on the quadrant. From each hexagon-corner arises one bristle-shaped radial beam; their distal ends are united by threads (three from each), forming the large meshes of the delicate outer shell. Each of these is divided by very thin threads into seven small circular porules, one central and six around it.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.25, inner 0.2, distance of both 0.025; outer pores 0.04, their porules 0.012, inner pores 0.15.

Subgenus 2. Craspedomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of both shells irregular, in each shell differing either in form or size.

Both shells with the same number of large, polygonal, very irregular pores, exactly corresponding (about eight to ten on the quadrant); both with a very delicate thin framework. From the thread-like bars of the inner, very large and thin-walled, sphere arise perpendicularly innumerable short bristles of equal length, which are united at equal distances by tangential thread-like bars, parallel to the former, composing the outer shell. Each mesh is, therefore, surrounded by a delicate ballister or rail.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.42, inner 0.4, distance of both 0.01; diameter of the meshes 0.02 to 0.06.

Both shells with small irregular roundish pores, of about the same size as the bars between them; twenty to thirty on the quadrant. The pores of the outer shell somewhat smaller, therefore much more numerous than the pores of the inner shell. Distance between the two shells about one-third as great as the radius of the inner. Both shells connected by numerous thin radial beams. Surface smooth or a little rough.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.18, inner 0.14, distance of both 0.02; pores and bars 0.003 to 0.005.

Subfamily Thecosphærida,^[33] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 452.

Definition.—Liosphærida with three concentric spherical lattice-shells, which are united by radial beams.

Genus 21. Thecosphæra,^[34] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Liosphærida with two medullary (intracapsular) shells and one cortical (extracapsular) shell.

The genus Thecosphæra comprises a large number of triple-shelled Sphæroidea, formerly united with Actinomma, but different from this genus in the absence of radial spines. The latticed shell is composed of three concentric spheres, two of which lie within the central capsule (medullary shells), and one outside (cortical shell). This latter is connected with the former by radial beams piercing the wall of the central capsule. From the following Rhodosphæra (with one medullary and two cortical shells) Carposphæra differs also by the distance of the three shells. In the former the distance between the two outer shells is much smaller, in the latter much larger, than the distance between the inner shells.

Subgenus 1. Thecosphærantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, hexagonal, or circular, with hexagonal frames or lobes, all of nearly equal size and form.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 8. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars, the inner half as broad as the outer. All three shells connected by six thin radial beams, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.003.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6. Both medullary shells with regular hexagonal pores and thin bars. All three shells connected by six prismatic radial beams, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes. (Shell similar to Hexacontium sceptrum, Pl. 24, fig. 1, 1a, but without external spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.04, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Cortical shell thick walled, thorny, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, of the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 10. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores, connected with the former by twelve short prismatic, regularly disposed radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores and bars 0.008.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, elegantly six-lobed pores, three times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4. Both medullary shells with simple regular circular pores, connected with the former by six dimensive radial beams. (Similar to Hexacontium floridum, Pl. 24, fig. 4, but without external spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.06, inner 0.03; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.0033.

Subgenus 2. Thecosphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, circular, without hexagonal frames or lobes, all of nearly equal size and form.

Actinomma inerme, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 440, Taf. xxiv. fig. 5.

Haliomma inerme, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 815.

Cortical shell thin walled, rough, with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres and of their circular regular pores = 1 : 2 : 4. All three spheres connected by twelve regularly disposed radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, at many Stations and at various depths.

Haliomma æquorea, Ehrenberg, 1844, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 83; Mikrogeol., 1854, Taf. xxii. fig. 35.

Actinomma æquorea, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 443.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular circular pores of the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres and of their regular pores = 1 : 2 : 6 or = 1 : 3 : 9; they are connected by six radial beams, opposite by pairs in the three dimensive axes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.08 to 0.12, middle 0.03 to 0.04, inner 0.09 to 0.12; cortical pores and bars about 0.006.

Haliomma medusa, Ehrenberg, 1838, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 130; Mikrogeol., 1854, Taf. xxii. figs. 33, 34.

Actinomma medusa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 444.

Actinomma medusa, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., Bd. xxvi. p. 90, Taf. ii. fig. 3.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough or thorny, with regular circular pores of the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4 (or 1 : 2.5 : 6); they are connected by four radial beams, crossed by pairs in two diameters, perpendicular one to another.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.08 to 0.12, middle 0.04 to 0.06, inner 0.02 to 0.025; cortical pores and bars in average 0.005.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular circular pores of the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 12; they are connected by very numerous (forty to fifty, or more) thin radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.24, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores and bars 0.008.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with very small and numerous, regular, circular pores, half as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three shells = 1 : 2 : 5; they are connected by twenty regularly disposed radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.08, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.002, bars 0.004.

Subgenus 3. Thecosphærina, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular polygonal, of unequal size or dissimilar form.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular polygonal pores, three to six times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with similar, but smaller, pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8; they are connected by very numerous (sixty to eighty or more) thin radial beams. (Similar to Actinomma capillaceum, Pl. 29, fig. 6, but without external spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.075, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.002.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, with large irregular polygonal pores, two to three times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with small regular circular pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6; they are connected by twenty (?) stout radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.04, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.008 to 0.012, bars 0.004.

Subgenus 4. Thecosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, roundish, of unequal size or dissimilar form.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with large irregular roundish pores, two to eight times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 5; they are connected by twelve regularly disposed stout radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.08, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.004 to 0.016, bars 0.002.

Cortical shell thin walled, with small irregular roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with similar but smaller pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8; they are connected by twenty thin radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.32, middle 0.12, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.005 to 0.012, bars 0.003.

Cortical shell thin walled, with small irregular roundish pores, two to six times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with similar, but smaller, pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 9; they are connected by numerous (forty to sixty or more) thin radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.45, middle 0.15, inner 0.05; cortical pores 0.008 to 0.024, bars 0.004.

Genus 22. Rhodosphæra,^[35] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Liosphærida with one medullary (intracapsular) shell and two cortical (extracapsular) shells.

The genus Rhodosphæra differs from the preceding Thecosphæra in the same manner in which, among the Dyosphærida, Liosphæra differs from Carposphæra. The cortical shell is double, composed of two not far distant shells, lying outside the central capsule. The distance between the shells is much smaller than the radius of the inner shell. This is connected by radial beams (piercing the central capsule) with the small central medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Rhodosphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of both cortical shells regular, in each shell all of nearly equal size and form.

Both cortical shells with the same number of regular hexagonal pores; the inner four times as broad as the bars, and half as broad as the outer pores, which are separated by thread-like bars. Medullary shell only one-fourth as broad as the inner cortical shell, with regular hexagonal pores of half the size. (Differs from the similar Liosphæra hexagonia, Pl. 20, fig. 3, by the possession of a medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.16, inner 0.04; outer pores 0.013, middle 0.008, inner 0.004.

Both cortical shells with the same number of regular pores; the inner regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, with elegant hexagonal frames and six roundish lobes alternating with the six radial spines which arise from the hexagon-corners; these short conical spines are connected at the distal end (at equal distances from the centre) by delicate threads (three from each spine), which form the delicate external shell. Medullary shell one-third as broad as the inner cortical shell, with small, simple, regular circular pores. (If in Carposphæra melitomma, Pl. 20, fig. 4, the distal ends of the spines became united by a cobweb-like outer shell, this species would be formed.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, middle 0.18, inner 0.06; outer pores 0.025, middle 0.0125, inner 0.005.

Subgenus 2. Rhodosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of both cortical shells irregular, in each shell of unequal size or dissimilar form.

Both cortical shells with an unequal number of irregular roundish pores; the outer pores somewhat smaller and much more numerous than the inner pores; the bars between the latter are thicker. Medullary shell about one quarter as broad as the inner cortical shell, with regular circular pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.4, middle 0.36, inner 0.08; outer pores on an average 0.008, middle 0.012, inner 0.004.

Both cortical shells with unequal number of irregular roundish pores; the inner pores large, three to four times as broad as the bars; to each inner pore corresponds a group of five smaller {84}outer pores, like the five petals of a flower. Medullary shell half as broad as the inner cortical shell, with regular circular pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.25, middle 0.2, inner 0.1; outer pores on an average 0.006, middle 0.012, inner 0.004.

Subfamily Cromyosphærida,^[36] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 453.

Definition.—Liosphærida with four concentric spherical latticed shells, united by radial beams.

Genus 23. Cromyosphæra,^[37] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Liosphærida with two intracapsular (medullary) shells and two extracapsular (cortical) shells; the former united with the latter by radial beams piercing the wall of the central capsule.

The genus Cromyosphæra is the only known genus of Cromyosphærida, or of such Sphæroidea, the smooth shell of which is composed of two medullary and two cortical shells. There may possibly be other Cromyosphærida, in which the shell is composed of one simple medullary and three cortical shells, or only of four extra-capsular cortical shells; but such have not as yet been observed. Caryosphæra polysphærica, Bütschli, 1882 (L. N. 41, Taf. xxiii. fig. 12) is probably a Cromyosphæra (fossil in Barbados).

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 4 : 5. Outer cortical shell smooth, with large regular hexagonal pores, ten times as broad as the bars; inner cortical shell with irregular polygonal pores, five times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores of the same breadth as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.16, (B) 0.12, (C) 0.06, (D) 0.03.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 8 : 10. Outer cortical shell smooth, with regular hexagonal pores and very thin bars; inner cortical shell with the same number of exactly corresponding, regular circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; the corners of the outer and inner hexagons united by radial bristles. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.2, (B) 0.16, (C) 0.04, (D) 0.02.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 7 : 8. Outer cortical shell smooth, with regular hexagonal pores and very thin bars; inner cortical shell with the same number of exactly corresponding, regular circular pores. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores of the same breadth as the bars. (Somewhat similar to Hexacromyon elegans, Pl. 24, fig. 9, also with six inner radial beams, but without external radial spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.2, (B) 0.17, (C) 0.05, (D) 0.025.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 4 : 5. All four shells of the same structure, thick-walled, with regular circular pores, two to four times as broad as the bars; the size of the pores increases gradually from the inner to the outer shell. Surface thorny. Distance between the second and third shells twice as great as that between the others.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.125, (B) 0.1, (C) 0.05, (D) 0.025.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 3 : 4. All four shells of the same structure, thin-walled, with irregular roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars; the size of the pores increasing gradually from the inner to the outer shell. Surface smooth. Distance between each two shells equal to the diameter of the innermost.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.12, (B) 0.09, (C) 0.06, (D) 0.03.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 5 : 7. Both cortical shells with irregular polygonal roundish pores; the outermost with thinner bars and rough surface, the inner with thicker bars. Both medullary shells with irregular roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.18, (B) 0.12, (C) 0.05, (D) 0.025.

Habitat.—Antarctic Ocean; in very large number, together with Rhizosphæra antarctica, in the diatomaceous ooze of Station 157 (3rd March 1874); depth 1950 fathoms.

Subfamily Caryosphærida,^[38] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 454.

Definition.—Liosphærida with numerous (five or more) concentric spherical latticed shells, united by radial beams.

Genus 24. Caryosphæra,^[39] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Liosphærida with two intracapsular (medullary) shells and three or more extracapsular (cortical) shells; the former united with the latter by radial beams piercing the wall of the central capsule.

The genus Caryosphæra, the only observed form of this subfamily, comprises those Liosphærida in which the shell is composed of two medullary and three or more cortical shells. Such forms (without radial spines) are very rare; I observed only two species, one with five, the other with six shells. They are derived from Cromyosphæra by further apposition of outer cortical shells.

Shell composed of five concentric spheres, with radial proportion = 1 : 2 : 8 : 10 : 12. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. First cortical shell with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars; second cortical shell with regular hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars; third (outermost) cortical shell with regular hexagonal pores and very thin thread-like bars. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the five shells—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.04, (C) 0.16, (D) 0.2, (E) 0.24.

Shell composed of six concentric spheres, with the radial proportion = 1 : 2 : 4 : 5 : 6 : 8. All six shells with regular circular pores, two to four times as broad as the bars, with increasing size from the centrum against the smooth surface.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the six shells—(A) 0.025, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.1, (D) 0.13, (E) 0.16, (F) 0.2.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Subfamily Plegmosphærida,^[40] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Liosphærida with spongy spherical shell, with or without latticed medullary shell in the centre.

Genus 25. Styptosphæra,^[41] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Liosphærida forming a solid sphere of spongy framework, without enclosed medullary shell, and without central cavity.

The genus Styptosphæra presents a spherical shell with smooth or rough surface (without radial spines), the whole mass of which is composed of looser or denser spongy wicker-work.

Spongy framework of the solid sphere loose, with large polygonal meshes of slightly different size, ten to twenty times as broad as the bars. Structure of the whole spongy sphere the same. Central capsule filled with crystals. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.32, of the central capsule 0.26, meshes 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.001.

Spongy framework in the central part of the solid sphere much more compact than in the peripheral part, becoming gradually looser towards the rough surface. Meshes in the centre three to five times, in the periphery fifteen to twenty times as broad as the bent bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.45, inner meshes 0.006 to 0.01, outer meshes 0.03 to 0.04, bars 0.002.

Spongy framework of the solid sphere rather compact, everywhere of the same structure, with roundish, nearly equal meshes, six to eight times as broad as the bars. Surface rough with prominent thorns.

Genus 26. Plegmosphæra, Haeckel,^[42] 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Liosphærida forming a hollow sphere of spongy framework, without a medullary shell in the central cavity.

The genus Plegmosphæra develops a large hollow sphere, the wall of which is composed of looser or denser spongy wicker-work. On the inner as well as on the outer face of the spongy shell-wall may be present a simple lattice-sphere from which the threads of the framework arise; but in some species these lattice-plates are quite absent.

Subgenus 1. Plegmosphærantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Inside and outside of the spongy shell-wall smooth, closed by a lattice-plate with polygonal meshes.

Radius of the spherical shell-cavity eight to ten times as great as the thickness of the thin spongy wall. Inside and outside of the wall smooth, closed by a lattice-plate with irregular polygonal meshes. Only three or four meshes in the thickness of the wall.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy sphere 0.8 to 1.0 mm., of its inner cavity 0.7 to 0.8, meshes 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.002 to 0.003, central capsule 0.5 to 0.6, nucleus 0.1 to 0.15.

Radius of the spherical shell-cavity eight to ten times as great as the thickness of the spongy wall. Inside and outside of the wall closed by a smooth lattice-plate with irregular polygonal meshes, five to ten times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.32, of its cavity 0.26, meshes 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.002.

Radius of the spherical shell-cavity about equal to the thickness of the spongy wall. Inside and outside of the wall closed by a smooth lattice-plate with irregular polygonal meshes, three to six times as broad as the bars.

Subgenus 2. Plegmosphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Inside of the spongy shell-wall closed by a smooth lattice-plate, outside rough, spongy, with prominent thorns.

Radius of the spherical shell-cavity half as great as the thickness of the spongy wall. Inside of the wall closed by a smooth lattice-plate, outside rough, spongy.

Radius of the spongy shell-cavity six times as great as the thickness of the spongy wall. Inside of the wall closed by a smooth lattice-plate, outside rough spongy.

Subgenus 3. Plegmosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Inside of the spongy shell-wall rough spongy, without lattice-plate, outside closed by a smooth lattice-plate.

Radius of the spongy shell-cavity only one-fourth as great as the thickness of the spongy shell-wall. Outside of the wall closed by a smooth lattice-plate, inside rough, spongy.

Subgenus 4. Plegmosphærusa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Inside and outside of the spongy shell-wall rough, with spongy or spiny surface, without lattice-plate.

Radius of the spherical shell-cavity half as great as the thickness of the loose spongy shell-wall. Inside and outside of the wall rough spongy, not closed by a lattice-plate. Meshes ten to twenty times as broad as the bars.

Radius of the spherical shell-cavity about equal to the thickness of the dark and dense spongy shell-wall. Inside and outside of the wall rough spongy, not closed by a lattice-plate. Meshes three to five times as broad as the bars.

Genus 27. Spongoplegma,^[43] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Liosphærida forming a sphere of spongy framework, which encloses in the centre one single latticed medullary shell.

The genus Spongoplegma may be regarded as a Carposphæra, in which the simple latticed cortical shell is represented by an irregular spongy framework, immediately enclosing the simple latticed medullary shell.

Cortical shell with loose spongy framework and rough surface, four to six times as broad as the enclosed simple medullary shell. Pores of the latter regular circular, twice as broad as the bars. From its surface arise numerous (forty to fifty or more) short radial beams, which become forked and compose, by communication of lateral branches, the spongy cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.2 to 0.3 of the latticed medullary shell 0.05 to 0.06.

Habitat.—Antarctic Ocean, in large number, together with Cromyosphæra antarctica; in the Diatom ooze of Station 157 (depth 1950 fathoms).

Genus 28. Spongodictyon,^[44] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 459.

Definition.—Liosphærida forming a sphere of spongy framework, which encloses in the centre a double latticed concentric medullary shell.

The genus Spongodictyon can be regarded as a Thecosphæra, in which the simple latticed cortical shell is represented by an irregular spongy framework, which immediately encloses the double latticed medullary shell. Sometimes this latter appears triple, the inner surface of the spongy cortical shell forming a smooth spherical lattice-plate, separated by an interval from the double medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Dictyoplegma, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol, p. 458.

Definition.—Spongy cortical shell enveloping immediately the double medullary shell.

Dictyosoma spongiosum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 31, Taf. ii. figs. 9-11.

Dictyoplegma spongiosum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 458.

Spongy framework of the cortical shell loose, with large, polygonal roundish meshes, on an average as large as the double medullary shell, which is immediately enveloped by it. Both concentric medullary shells with subregular roundish pores, twice as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.2 to 0.3 or more; of the outer medullary shell 0.03, inner 0.01.

Spongy framework of the cortical shell rather compact in the inner part, which immediately envelops the double medullary shell; very loose, with large caverns in the outer part, caverns of the surface larger than the medullary shell. Both medullary shells with regular circular pores, three times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.3 to 0.4, outer medullary shell 0.1, inner 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Spongodictyoma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy cortical shell on the inner surface with a smooth lattice-plate (or third medullary shell), which is connected by radial beams with the inner double medullary shell.

Spongodictyon trigonizon, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 459, Taf. xxvi. figs. 4-6.

Dictyosoma trigonizon, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 841.

Spongy framework of the cortical shell very loose, with very large, for the most part triangular meshes, which are two to six times as large as the enclosed double medullary shell. From the surface of the latter arise numerous radial beams, which are connected by a spherical lattice-plate, forming the smooth inner surface of the spongy sphere (or a third medullary shell). The structure of the framework reminds one of the Phæodarium Sagena (Pl. 108). Pores of both medullary shells regular circular, twice as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.5 to 1.15, outer medullary 0.05, inner 0.035.

Spongy framework of the cortical shell in the inner part very loose, in the outer part more compact; outer meshes scarcely as large as the inner medullary shell (or only half as large), inner meshes two to four times as large. From the surface of the double medullary shell arise numerous radial beams, which are forked at equal distances from the centre; the fork branches are curved and united together by dichotomous branches, like elegant arcades; and these arcades form together the large polygonal meshes on the inside of the cortical shell (or a third medullary shell). Both medullary shells with regular circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.2, outer medullary shell 0.04, inner 0.02.

Family VI. Collosphærida, J. Müller^[45] (Pls. 5-8).

Definition.—Sphæroidea living associated in colonies, united by an alveolar jelly-body, and connected by the network of anastomosing pseudopodia.

The family Collosphærida comprises all polyzous or social Sphæroidea, and constitutes the only polyzoic group among the Sphærellaria. This group was first constituted by J. Müller as "Radiolaria polyzoa with shells."^[46] Formerly following his authority, in my Monograph I had separated them from the other Sphæroidea and united them with the social Collodaria (Sphærozoida).^[47] Also R. Hertwig in his Organismus der Radiolarien^[48] united them with his Sphærozoea. In my Prodromus^[49] I had retained this isolated position. But a further careful study has convinced me that this isolation is not truly natural, and that the Collosphærida are only "social Ethmosphærida" which have arisen from this solitary subfamily by adaptation to colonial life. There are some forms of Collosphærida which are nearly identical with some forms of Ethmosphærida, only differing from the latter by their association in colonies; and in some forms of both groups it is quite impossible to decide whether the isolated shells appertain to one or to the other family.

The isolated shell of the Collosphærida is almost constantly (with few exceptions) a simple extracapsular lattice-shell, as in the Monosphærida; only the small group of Clathrosphærida (with the genera Clathrosphæra and Xanthiosphæra) exhibit an exception, the simple lattice-shell being overgrown by an external mantle or veil of very thin, cobweb-like, irregular lattice-work (Pl. 8, figs. 6-11). Therefore these Clathrosphærida bear to the Acrosphærida (or the common simple Collosphærida) a relation similar to that which Liosphæra (p. 76) bears to Cenosphæra; both shells are extracapsular "cortical shells" at a very short distance apart. In the Collosphærida true concentric medullary shells never occur; the central capsule always lies quite freely in the simple or double cortical shell, separated from it by a jelly-veil.

Although a well marked difference in the simple lattice-shell of the social Collosphærida and the solitary Ethmosphærida does not exist, nevertheless in most cases the two shells can be distinguished by a practiced observer. The simple fenestrated shells of the monozoic Ethmosphærida are commonly quite regular spheres in a mathematical sense, or regular "endospherical polyhedra"; whereas in the Collosphærida they are commonly more or less irregular, often to an extraordinary degree (Pls. 5-8). Some species of Collosphærida, however, also possess quite regular spherical shells. Another difference is often shown in the lattice-work of the shells, which in the Collosphærida is nearly always very irregular, and exhibits a peculiar tendency to the {93}production of radial, conical, or cylindrical tubules. These occur as well on the inside as on the outside of the shell, and the tubules are now more conical, now more cylindrical; their wall either solid or pierced by pores (Pls. 5-8). The tubules are commonly very irregular in form, size, and disposition; distinguished, however, by a number of hereditary peculiarities, which are sufficient for the distinction of genera. Similar tubules occur also in some genera of solitary Ethmosphærida (Coscinomma, Ethmosphæra, Conosphæra, &c., Pl. 12); but the tubules are here much more regular and not so highly developed.

Besides the tubules of the fenestrated shells, in some genera of Collosphærida the surface is armed with irregular thorns, rarely with more regular radial spines. But these spines obtain constantly the character of accessory by-spines, and remain short and thin. In this family typical radial spines never occur in a regular and characteristic disposition, corresponding to dimensive axes, as is the case in nearly all solitary Sphæroidea, only excepting the Liosphærida. Commonly these spines or thorns serve as protective arms for the shell-meshes, surrounding them often in the form of coronels. Often the lattice-plate of the irregular roundish shell is tubercular, elevated into irregular protuberances, bearing on the top a short spine or thorn (Pl. 8).

The Central Capsule of the Collosphærida is always a regular sphere, as in all other Sphæroidea; it is constantly placed within the lattice-shell, and commonly much smaller than it, separated from it by a thick jelly-veil. A remarkable difference from the solitary Sphæroidea is shown in the early division of the nucleus. Commonly the central capsule of the Collosphærida contains in its centre a large oil-globule, surrounded by very numerous small nuclei. R. Hertwig estimated this difference as so important, that he separated the social "Sphærozoea" and the solitary "Peripylea" as two different orders. As already shown above (p. 7, 24), we cannot support this separation, and are now convinced that this difference in the development of the spores—just as in the Collodaria—is the consequence of an adaptation to social life.

The common jelly-body, in which the numerous central capsules and their enveloping shells are united, exhibits in the Collosphærida quite the same characters as in the other social Radiolaria, the Collozoida and Sphærozoida. The jelly-body is very voluminous, commonly spherical, often cylindrical, of considerable size; constantly containing numerous large alveoles. Often each shell is enclosed in a separate alveole with rather solid wall (Pl. 6, fig. 2). Sometimes in the dead colonies all shells are united in the central part of the jelly-body, whilst its peripheral part is composed of a stratum of large alveoles (Pl. 8, fig. 11); at other times no alveoles are visible (Pl. 7, fig. 11). In many living colonies I found a very large spherical alveole with thick wall in the centre of the spherical colony, surrounded by many strata of delicate thin-walled alveoles (Pl. 5, fig. 1). In this case often the inner younger capsules were naked, {94}without shells, the outer only surrounded by shells. Already in my Monograph I had described the same peculiar formation.^[50]

Synopsis of the Genera of Collosphærida.

Subfamily Acrosphærida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 471.

Definition.—Collosphærida with one simple lattice-shell around every central capsule of the cœnobium.

Genus 29. Collosphæra,^[51] J. Müller, 1855.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, smooth on the inside and on the outside, without any spines or tubuli.

The genus Collosphæra is the most simple form of all Collosphærida, and must be regarded as the common ancestral form of this family. As the lattice-shell is quite a simple sphere, without any spines, tubules, or other peculiar productions, it agrees perfectly with Cenosphæra, and represents the social or polyzoid aggregate of this solitary or monozoid genus. Therefore a certain distinction between the isolated shells of the two genera is often very difficult or even impossible; but commonly this distinction is possible owing to the circumstance, that in the majority of the Collosphæræ the shell is more or less irregular roundish or polyhedral, not quite spherical, as in Cenosphæra. Dermatosphæra, Ehrenberg, is a Collosphæra with small pores (compare L. N. 16, p. 533).

Subgenus 1. Eucollosphæra, Haeckel.

Shell a regular sphere, with very delicate and regular network of hexagonal meshes. Six to eight meshes in the half meridian of the shell. Diameter of the meshes ten to fifteen times as broad as the thin bars between them. Can be regarded as social form of Cenosphæra primordialis.

Shell a regular sphere, with a perfectly regular network of circular meshes, all of the same size. Ten to twelve meshes in the half meridian of the shell. Diameter of the meshes the same as that of the bars between them.

Shell a regular sphere, with subregular network of circular meshes of different sizes; few large pores between many smaller pores. Ten to twenty meshes in the half meridian of the shell. Diameter of the meshes from half to twice as broad as that of the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.002 to 0.008, breadth of the bars 0.004 to 0.008.

Habitat.—Tropical and subtropical zone of both hemispheres, widely distributed; Canaries, Azores, Cape Verde Islands, Guinea Coast, Brazil Coast, Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Ceylon, surface.

Subgenus 2. Dyscollosphæra, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell not a regular sphere, but irregular roundish, in all degrees of variation between subspherical and polyhedral or quite irregular forms.

Collosphæra huxleyi, J. Müller, 1855, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, pp. 55-59, Taf. viii. figs. 6-9.

Collosphæra huxleyi, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 534, Taf. xxxiv.

Collosphæra huxleyi, Cienkowski, 1871, Archiv f. mikrosk. Anat., Bd. vii. p. 374, Taf. xxix. figs. 1-6.

Collosphæra ligurina, J. Müller, 1856, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 481.

Thalassicolla punctata, var., Huxley, 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 434, pl. xvi. fig. 6.

Shell subspherical, somewhat irregular, sometimes with more or less superficial impressions, with irregular network of roundish meshes. Eight to sixteen meshes in the half meridian of the shell, one to three times as broad as their bars. Very variable, with direct transition-forms to other species of this genus, especially to Collosphæra globularis, Collosphæra tuberosa, Collosphæra pyriformis, and Collosphæra polyedra.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.16, of the pores 0.004 to 0.012, of the bridges 0.003 to 0.006.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; common in the greater part of the warmer seas, surface.

Collosphæra huxleyi var., Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xxxiv. fig. 5.

Shell irregular polygonal, with very delicate, irregular network of polygonal meshes, four to twelve times as broad as the bars. Ten to twenty pores on the half meridian of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.2, of the pores 0.012 to 0.004, of the bars 0.001 to 0.002.

Shell irregular, rounded, ovate or pear-shaped, with irregular network of rounded or nearly polygonal meshes. Ten to twenty meshes in the half meridian of the shell, one to three times as broad as the bars. Commonly one large opening (two to three times as broad as the largest {97}meshes) on the thinner end of the ovate shell (corresponding to the insertion of a pear-stalk); sometimes two or three such large openings.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.15, of the pores 0.008 to 0.016, of the bridges 0.004 to 0.008.

Habitat.—Tropical zone—Cape Verde Islands, Ceylon; Central Pacific, Stations 266 to 272, 348 to 352, &c.

Trisolenia zanguebarica, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 301, Taf. x. fig. 11.

Shell irregular, polyhedral, with even or somewhat vaulted sides, and obtuse ridges between them. Network more or less irregular, with small rounded meshes, quite as broad or twice as broad as their bars. Besides these small pores constantly some large round openings (commonly three to six), situated on the corners of the polyhedral shell, four to six times as large as the pores. Often an acute tooth on the edge of each large opening. Transition-form between Collosphæra and Solenosphæra or Odontosphæra.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.15, of the pores 0.004 to 0.008, of their bridges 0.004, of the large openings 0.24 to 0.032.

Habitat.—Tropical zone of the Pacific and the Indian Ocean; Stations 266 to 272, surface.

Collosphæra huxleyi, var., Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xxxiv. figs. 3, 9.

Shell very irregular, between subspherical and polyhedral in form, but always with irregular impressions, boils or bosses, and between these different rounded prominent tubercles and ridges. Network irregular, strong, with rounded, subcircular or nearly polygonal meshes. Ten to thirty pores in the half meridian of the shell. Diameter of the meshes half to four times as broad as that of the thick bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell very variable in the same cœnobium, 0.05 to 0.2, of the pores 0.002 to 0.008, breadth of the bridges 0.004 to 0.006.

Collosphæra huxleyi, var., Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xxxiv. fig. 8.

Shell quite irregular, knotty or bulbous, with irregular impressions, and prominent knobs or bulbs between them. Network thin, fragile, quite irregular, with polygonal meshes of most unequal size and form. Five to twenty pores in the half meridian of the shell. Diameter of the meshes two to ten times as broad as that of the thin bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell very variable in the same cœnobium, 0.04 to 0.24, of the pores 0.005 to 0.05, of the bridges 0.002 to 0.004.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, Atlantic, not common; Stations 348, 352, &c., surface.

Genus 30. Tribonosphæra,^[52] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 471.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, on the inside with radial centripetal beams.

The genus Tribonosphæra differs from Collosphæra by a very peculiar and rare character, the development of centripetal radial sticks on the internal face of the shell; these beams are not united in the centrum, but finish freely in a certain distance from it.

Shell roundish or subspherical, with numerous small circular or roundish pores, about twice as broad as the bars. Twenty to thirty pores on the half meridian of the shell. Outside of the shell smooth, inside a variable number (ten to twenty) of thin, radial, centripetal sticks or spines, one-third or one-half as long as the radius of the shell. (In the central capsule many very large crystals, resting after the destruction of the capsule.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.003 to 0.005, of the bridges 0.001 to 0.002; length of the inner centripetal sticks 0.02 to 0.03.

Genus 31. Pharyngosphæra,^[53] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, having on the inside radial centripetal tubes, the walls of which are solid.

The genus Pharyngosphæra differs from Collosphæra by the development of radial tubules on the inside of the shell, which are directed centripetally towards its centre. The wall of the tubule is solid, not latticed as in the following genus.

Shell irregular polyhedral, with ten to fifteen polygonal faces and rounded edges. Pores very small, circular, irregularly scattered, smaller than the bars. Twelve to fifteen pores on the half meridian of the shell. On the inside of every shell-face one short, nearly cylindrical, centripetal tubule, twice as long as broad, and about one-third as long as the shell radius. Outer umbilical mouth of the tubules somewhat wider than the inner truncated mouth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11 to 0.12, of the pores 0.003 to 0.005, of the bars 0.01 to 0.02; length of the inner tubuli 0.02, breadth of them 0.01.

Genus 32. Buccinosphæra,^[54] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, having on the inside radial centripetal tubes, the walls of which are fenestrated.

The genus Buccinosphæra exhibits, on the inner surface of the shell, radial centripetal tubules similar to those of the foregoing Pharyngosphæra; but the walls of these tubes are here latticed, not solid; they represent therefore true invaginations of the whole shell-wall.

Shell irregular roundish or nearly polyhedral, with a variable number of umbilical depressions, which are prolonged on the inside into cylindrical or somewhat conical, centripetal, fenestrated tubes, about one-third as long as the shell radius. Inner mouth of the tubes narrower, scarcely half as broad as the outer mouth, about equal to one-fourth the shell radius, truncated. Pores of the tubes and of the shell small, roundish, irregular in size and distribution, about as broad as the bars. Twenty-five to thirty pores in the half meridian of the shell. In all observed specimens the spherical central capsule (half as broad as the shell) contained a large number of crystals.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.001 to 0.003, of the bars 0.002 to 0.003; length of the tubuli 0.02; outer mouth 0.026, inner mouth 0.013; crystals in the central capsule 0.002 to 0.004, sometimes 0.008.

Shell irregular polyhedral with rounded edges, with a variable number of umbilical depressions, which are prolonged on the inside into large, nearly cylindrical, centripetal, fenestrated tubes, half as long as the shell radius. In the middle the tubes are somewhat constricted and narrower. Inner mouth of the tubes dilated, nearly as broad as the outer mouth, about equal to one-half the shell-radius, truncated. Pores of the tubes and of the shell large, roundish polygonal, irregular in size and distribution, three to four times as broad as the bars. Fifteen to twenty pores in the half meridian of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.14, of the pores 0.008 to 0.012, of the bars 0.002 to 0.004; length of the tubuli 0.03; outer mouth 0.04, inner mouth 0.03.

Genus 33. Acrosphæra,^[55] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 471.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the outer surface of which is covered with radial, irregularly scattered spines.

The genus Acrosphæra differs from its ancestral genus Collosphæra by the development of spines on the outer surface of the shell. These are either short, straight, radial spines, or oblique and often curved; their base is often inflated; they are irregularly scattered on the whole surface between the pores.

Shell a regular sphere, everywhere covered with small, very numerous, straight radial spines, regularly scattered between the pores. In the half meridian of the shell ten to twelve circular pores, all of the same form and size, double as broad as the bars. Spines bristle-shaped, very thin, solid, about as long as the diameter of the pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.008 to 0.012; length of the spines 0.01.

Shell a regular sphere, covered with numerous, straight, radial spines, irregularly scattered over the whole surface. In the half meridian of the shell twenty to thirty irregular roundish pores of variable size, one to four times as broad as the bars. Spines conical, strong, quite radial, at the top of small conical elevations, which are perforated by from three to six pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, of the pores 0.002 to 0.008; length of the spines 0.015, of their basal zones 0.01.

Habitat.—South-east corner of the Pacific, Valparaiso, Station 298, surface.

Polysolenia setosa, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 299, Taf. viii. fig. 10.

Shell a regular sphere, covered with numerous bristle-shaped radial spines, irregularly scattered between the pores. In the half meridian of the shell two to four very large circular pores (equal to one-third the radius), and between them numerous very small, point-like pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05 to 0.08, of the large pores 0.01, of the small 0.001; length of the spines 0.01 to 0.02.

Habitat.—West Tropical Pacific, Philippine Sea, Station 206, depth 2100 fathoms.

Collosphæra spinosa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 536, Taf. xxxiv. figs. 12, 13.

Collosphæra spinosa, Cienkowsky, 1871, Archiv f. mikrosk. Anat., vii. p. 374, Taf. xxix. figs. 7-17.

Shell a regular or subregular sphere, covered with numerous, obliquely standing spines, irregularly scattered over the surface. In the half meridian of the shell fifteen to twenty irregular {101}roundish pores of very different form and size, one to four times as broad as their bars. Spines conical, irregularly diverging and curved, their hollow base perforated by several pores, not longer than the diameter of the largest pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.2, of the pores 0.001 to 0.04; length of the spines 0.01 to 0.02.

Shell quite irregular, polyhedrical, hilly, with a variable number (eight to sixteen) of large conical hill-like prominences; every cone or hill about as high as broad, perforated by the same pores as the shell, on its top bearing a larger irregular roundish pore, and on its edge one single bristle-like spine, not larger than the diameter of this pore, obliquely inserted. In the half meridian of the shell twenty to thirty irregular roundish pores of very different size, one to six times as broad as the bars. A very characteristic species, closely resembling the following Odontosphæra.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15 to 0.25, of the pores 0.005 to 0.02; length of the spines 0.01 to 0.02, height of the hills from which they rise 0.03 to 0.04.

Mazosphæra inflata, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas, loc. cit.

Shell more or less irregular, polyhedral, hilly, with a variable number (six to twelve) of large pyramidal, hill-like prominences; every hill about as high as broad, on the top a strong conical, radial, or obliquely inserted spine, inflated, with three to six very large polygonal meshes, much larger than the other pores between the hills, which are also polygonal, two to six times as broad as the bars. Ten to fifteen pores on the half meridian.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.14, of the largest pores 0.05, of the smallest 0.005; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.03.

Genus 34. Odontosphæra,^[56] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the outside of which bears single scattered spines, one single spine on the margin of each larger pore.

The genus Odontosphæra is distinguished from the foregoing Acrosphæra by the peculiar disposition of the spines, which are not scattered on the outside of the shell between the pores, but so disposed that each larger pore is protected by one single spine, obliquely placed over it.

Shell spherical or subspherical, with very small and numerous circular pores, much smaller than the bars. Twelve to fifteen pores on the half meridian of the shell. Between them a variable number of larger roundish apertures (mostly twelve to sixteen) irregularly scattered, one-fourth to one-fifth as broad as the shell radius. On the margin of every larger aperture a single (rarely two or three) sharp conical tooth, about as long as the diameter of the aperture, and obliquely laid over them.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.13, of the pores 0.001 to 0.003, of the bars 0.01 to 0.02, of the larger apertures 0.01 to 0.02.

Shell spherical or subspherical, with numerous roundish pores of very irregular size and distribution, mostly larger than the bars. Ten to twelve pores on the half meridian of the shell. Between them a variable number (mostly six to nine) of large roundish pores, about half as broad as the shell radius, armed on one side of the margin with one single large tooth, about as long as the diameter of the aperture, hook-like, curved, and obliquely laid over them.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.14, of the pores 0.01 to 0.02, of the bars 0.003 to 0.006, of the larger apertures 0.03 to 0.04.

Genus 35. Chœnicosphæra,^[57] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, armed on the outside with radial spines, forming elegant coronals around the larger pores.

The genus Chœnicosphæra is characterised by the peculiar disposition of its radial spines, which form protective coronals around the larger pores, or even around all pores of the shell.

Subgenus 1. Chœnicosphærula.

Shell spherical, with large circular or roundish pores of unequal size, two to four times as broad as the bars. Ten to twelve pores in the half meridian of the shell. Margin of every pore {103}with a coronal of six to nine short and acute spines, not longer than the half diameter of the pore. No spines between the pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16 to 0.2, of the pores 0.02 to 0.03; length of the spines 0.008 to 0.012.

Habitat.—Færöe Channel (Gulf Stream), common. Expedition of H.M.S. "Triton," John Murray.

Shell spherical, with large circular or roundish pores of different size, three to six times as broad as the bars. Six to eight pores in the half meridian of the shell. Margin of every pore somewhat prominent, with a coronal of ten to twenty parallel acute spines of different length, the largest somewhat longer than the diameter of the pore. No spines between the pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, of the pores 0.02 to 0.04; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.05.

Subgenus 2. Chœnicosphærium.

Definition.—A coronal of spines only around the larger pores, not around the smaller.

Shell spherical, with circular or roundish pores of very different size. The smaller pores very numerous, without coronal of spines, roundish, about as broad as the bridges. Twenty to thirty pores in the half meridian of the shell. Between them, irregularly scattered, a small number (eight to twelve) of very large circular pores, one-third to one-half as broad as the radius of the shell, armed with a coronal of six to nine parallel, straight, acute spines, about half as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.13, of the smaller pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the larger armed pores 0.02 to 0.03; length of the spines 0.03 to 0.04.

Shell spherical, with circular or roundish pores of very different size. The smaller pores very numerous and unequal, very irregularly scattered, hardly one-fourth to one-half as broad as the bridges between them. Twelve to twenty-four pores in the half meridian of the shell. Between them, irregularly scattered, a variable number (ten to twenty) of very large circular pores, about one-fourth as broad as the radius of the shell. The margin of these large pores is armed with a very irregular coronal of four to twelve unequal, curved acute spines, partly simple, partly branched like {104}a deer-horn, one-fourth to one-half as long as the radius of the shell. Some other small spines irregularly scattered over the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.16, of the smaller pores 0.001 to 0.004, of the larger armed pores 0.016 to 0.024; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Stations 266 to 272, depth 2425 to 2925 fathoms.

Genus 36. Siphonosphæra,^[58] J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the pores of which are prolonged into external simple radial tubuli with solid wall; outer mouth of the tubuli truncated, smooth.

The genus Siphonosphæra is, next to Collosphæra, the most common of all Collosphærida, and rich in different species; all agreeing in the tubular prolongation of the pores, and corresponding therefore to Ethmosphæra among the simple Liosphærida.

Subgenus 1. Holosiphonia, Haeckel.

Shell a regular sphere, everywhere occupied by short, regular cylindrical tubes, all of the same size and form. Length of the tubules equal to their breadth and to the intervals between them. Ten to twelve tubules in the half meridian of the shell. This most regular species is nearly allied to Collosphæra regularis, and may be derived from it by tubular prolongation of all the regular pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, length and breadth of the tubules 0.005 to 0.006.

Shell a regular or subregular sphere, occupied by numerous short cylindrical tubules of different sizes. Six to eight tubules in the half meridian of the shell. Diameter of the tubules about equal to their distance apart, but two to four times as large as their length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 14; length of the tubules 0.004 to 0.006, breadth of the tubules and the intervals 0.01 to 0.02.

Siphonosphæra tubulosa, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 59.

Siphonosphæra tubulosa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 532.

Collosphæra tubulosa, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 59.

Thalassicolla punctata, var., Huxley, 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 435, pl. xvi. fig. 5.

Shell subspherical or roundish, somewhat irregular, occupied by a small number (five to ten) of short cylindrical tubules, irregularly scattered at great distances; intervals between the tubules very large, two to four times as broad as the length of the tubules, which is equal to their breadth and about one-fifth or one-sixth of the shell diameter. Only two or three tubules in the half meridian of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, length and breadth of the tubules 0.02 to 0.03.

Shell a regular sphere, everywhere occupied by short cup-like tubules of somewhat different size. In the half meridian of the shell about ten to twelve tubules, nearly cylindrical, but constricted in the middle. Inner and outer aperture of the tubule of the same size; their diameter equal to their length and distance.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, length and breadth of the tubules 0.005 to 0.01.

Shell a regular or subregular sphere, occupied by numerous broad cup-like tubules of very different sizes. In the half meridian of the shell about six to eight tubules, very flat, circular or subcircular, much constricted in the middle. Diameter of the inner aperture larger than that of the middle stricture, smaller than that of the outer aperture of the tubule; outer diameter two to four times as great as their length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.15, of the pores 0.01 to 0.04; length of the tubules 0.01, breadth 0.02 to 0.04.

Shell subspherical or irregular rounded, occupied by a small number (six to twelve) of large funnel-like tubules of very different size, scattered irregularly at great distances. Intervals between the tubules larger than their length, which surpasses the radius of the shell. Outer opening of the funnels three to four times as broad as the inner.

Shell subspherical, everywhere occupied by irregular conical tubules, the length of which nearly reaches the shell radius. Inner aperture of the cones two to three times as large as the outer. Four to five tubules in the half meridian of the shell. Distances between the bases of the cones small and irregular.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.06 to 0.08, length of the tubules 0.03 to 0.04; inner aperture of the cones 0.01 to 0.02, outer aperture 0.008 to 0.01.

Shell quite irregular roundish or nearly ovate, very thin and fragile, everywhere occupied by irregular, short, and broad cylindrical or conical tubes. Six to ten tubes in the half meridian of the shell. Diameter of the tubules about one-eighth that of the shell, three to four times as large as the length of the tubules, and the distance apart of their bases.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16 to 0.24, of the tubules 0.02 to 0.03; length of the tubules 0.006 to 0.008, distance of them 0.005 to 0.009.

Subgenus 2. Merosiphonia, Haeckel.

Definition.—Only part of the shell apertures prolonged in tubules, the others simple.

Shell a regular or subregular sphere, bearing only a small number (one to four, commonly two to three) of short and broad cylindrical tubules, irregularly scattered. Between them many small circular or subcircular pores of different sizes, double as broad as their bars. Eight to ten pores in the half meridian of the shell. Tubules three to six times as broad as the pores, about as long as broad, now quite cylindrical, now somewhat dilated at the outer opening. (Although the shells and cells of this common species are among the smallest, their colonies are among the largest, often containing more than one hundred social individuals, often enclosed in alveoles.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.04 to 0.05, of the pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the tubules 0.015 to 0.02; length of them about the same.

Habitat.—Tropical and subtropical part of the Eastern Atlantic, Cape Verde Islands, Canaries, very common, Haeckel; Stations 338 to 353, surface.

Shell a regular or subregular sphere, bearing twelve to sixteen circular pores in its half meridian. Nearly one half the pores simple, very small; the other half prolonged into short cylindrical tubules, {107}half as long as broad, two to four times as broad as the pores and their intervals. This species is nearly related to the foregoing, which it represents in the western tropical part of the Atlantic, but differs constantly in the double size of the shell and the much larger number of the tubules.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.06 to 0.09, of the pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the tubules 0.01 to 0.012; their length 0.006 to 0.008, surface.

Habitat.—Tropical and subtropical part of the Western Atlantic, coast of Brazil, &c., Rabbe.

Shell a regular sphere, with numerous very small pores of equal size and distribution. Twelve to sixteen pores in its half meridian. Bars (between the pores) three to four times as broad as their diameter. Only a small number (two to four) of very long cylindrical tubes, irregularly scattered, nearly as long or somewhat longer than the shell diameter; now quite straight, now somewhat curved. Diameter of the cylinders four to six times as large as that of the pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the tubules 0.015 to 0.018; length of the tubules 0.08 to 0.16.

Shell a regular sphere, with numerous very small pores of equal size and distribution. Eight to ten pores in its half meridian; bars between them three to four times as broad as their diameter. Only a small number (six to eight) of very long and snake-like, contorted, cylindrical tubes, irregularly scattered. The shape of the latter is very much like that of the calcareous tubes of some species of Serpula; they are nearly as long as, or longer than, the shell diameter, and four to six times as broad as the pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.14, of the pores 0.003 to 0.005, of the tubules 0.02 to 0.022; length of the tubules 0.1 to 0.2.

Habitat.—North Eastern Pacific, Station 252 to 262, Sandwich Islands, Haltermann.

Shell a regular or subregular sphere, with numerous very small pores of equal size and distribution, ten to twelve in its half meridian. Bars between the pores four to six times their diameter. Only a small number (two to six) of very large funnel-like tubules, irregularly scattered. The inner half of these tubules is a short cylindrical tube, of the same thickness as the shell, three to four times as broad as the pores; the outer half is an irregular funnel, suddenly expanded, with siliceous walls of the utmost tenuity and fragility, often irregularly folded and contorted, like a decayed flower-calyx, often half as large as the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.003 to 0.005, inner half of the tubules 0.015 to 0.02, outer funnel-like half 0.05 to 0.08.

Shell more or less irregularly roundish or subspherical, occupied in part by very small pores, in part by very large cylindrical tubules, inflated in the middle. Number, form, and size of the tubes very irregular; commonly there are five to ten, half as long or as long as the shell radius; their inner and outer aperture about half as broad as their inflated middle part; three to nine times as broad as the pores. A very irregular and variable species.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.15, of the pores 0.001 to 0.005, of the tubules 0.015 to 0.03; length of the tubules 0.03 to 0.08.

Genus 37. Mazosphæra,^[59] Ehrenberg, 1860.

Mazosphæra, Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 833.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the pores of which are prolonged into external simple radial tubuli with solid wall; outer mouth of each tubulus armed with a single tooth.

The genus Mazosphæra is intermediate between Siphonosphæra and Odontosphæra, agreeing with the former in the tubular prolongation of the pores, with the latter in the possession of a single large protective tooth on the outer opening.

Shell spherical, with circular pores of irregular size and distribution, scarcely half as broad as the bars; fifteen to twenty on the half meridian of the shell. Between them, irregularly distributed, a variable number (ten to fifteen) of short cylindrical radial tubules, about twice as long as broad, and half as long as the shell radius. Mouth of the tubuli obliquely truncated, having on one side a strong acute tooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11 to 0.12, of the pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the bridges 0.006 to 0.009; length of the tubuli 0.03, breadth of them 0.01 to 0.015.

Shell spherical, with circular pores of irregular size and distribution, about as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the half meridian. Between them, irregularly distributed, a variable number (eight to twelve) of long, cylindrical, curved tubules, three to six times as long as broad, and about as long as the shell radius; their external mouth lateral, obliquely truncated, ovate, having on one side a strong conical tooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.002 to 0.01; length of the tubuli 0.05 to 0.07.

Mazosphæra lævis, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 297, Taf. vii. fig. 7.

Shell spherical, with very small pores, scarcely one-fourth as broad as the bars. Fifteen to twenty pores on the half meridian of the shell. Between them, irregularly distributed, a variable number (fifteen to twenty) of short conical tubules, about as long as broad, only one-fifth to one-sixth as long as the shell radius. Mouth of the tubuli truncated, with an obtuse short tooth on one side.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08 to 0.09, of the pores 0.001 to 0.002, of the bridges 0.005 to 0.008; length of the tubuli 0.01 to 0.02, breadth of them the same.

Habitat.—Philippine Islands (depth 3300 fathoms), Ehrenberg; Station 206, depth 2100 fathoms; Station 225, depth 4575 fathoms.

Mazosphæra apicata, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 316.

Shell spherical, without small pores, only with a variable number (ten to twenty) of short conical tubules, twice as long as broad, and half as long as the shell radius. Mouths of the tubuli obliquely truncated, with a strong acute tooth on one side. (This species differs from the two preceding by the want of the small pores between the tubules.)

Habitat.—Philippine Islands (depth 3300 fathoms), Ehrenberg; north coast of New Guinea, depth 2000 fathoms; Station 217.

Genus 38. Trypanosphæra,^[60] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the pores of which are prolonged into external simple radial tubuli with solid walls; outer mouth of each tubulus armed with a coronal of spines.

The genus Trypanosphæra is intermediate between Siphonosphæra and Chœnicosphæra agreeing with the former in the tubular prolongation of the pores, with the latter in the possession of a coronal of teeth on their outer opening.

Subgenus 1. Trypanosphærula, Haeckel.

Shell regular spherical, with regular circular pores of nearly equal size, at unequal distances, one to four times as broad as the bars. Eight to ten pores on the half meridian. All the pores prolonged into short cylindrical tubuli about as long as broad, armed on the external mouth with an elegant coronal of twenty to thirty straight bristle-shaped, parallel teeth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.14, of the pores 0.015 to 0.02; length of the tubuli 0.02.

Shell regular spherical, with regular circular pores of equal size, but at very different distances. Only three to four pores on the half meridian. All the pores prolonged into irregular curved, cylindrical tubuli, about as long as the shell radius, with a coronal of ten to twelve short conical teeth on the distal end.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08 to 0.09; length of the tubuli 0.04, breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Trypanosphærium, Haeckel.

Shell regular spherical, with irregular roundish pores of very different sizes. On the half meridian four to six large and twelve to sixteen very small pores. About half of the large pores prolonged into short cylindrical tubuli, the outer mouth of each being armed with an elegant coronal of ten to twenty thin irregular teeth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the large pores 0.01 to 0.02, of the small pores 0.001; length of the tubuli 0.012.

Shell irregular roundish, with unequal, small, roundish pores. Sixteen to twenty pores on the half meridian. Six to eight larger pores are prolonged into curved cylindrical tubuli, about as long as the shell radius, with a coronal of ten to twelve strong conical straight teeth on the distal end.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, of the pores 0.001 to 0.003; length of the tubuli 0.08, breadth 0.02.

Shell quite irregular, of very variable, roundish, or polyhedral form, with small irregular roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars. Ten to thirty on the half meridian. The different form of the shell depends upon the variable number of tubuli, which arise at irregular distances from the shell; commonly three to four, often also five to six, more rarely one or two. The tubuli are now more conical, now more cylindrical, about as long as the shell radius, at other times scarcely one-half or one-third as long, with a coronal of ten to twenty more or less curved teeth on the narrower distal mouth. All the different forms are to be found in one and the same colony, as shown in fig. 1. This cœnobium, which I observed living in Ceylon, exhibited the same peculiar formation as I figured in Collosphæra huxleyi in my Monograph 1862 (Taf. xxxiv. fig. 1). In the centre of the jelly-sphere lies a large globular alveole, surrounded by numerous small, young central capsules without shell; whilst in the surface lies one layer of older capsules, enclosed in shells. Some of the younger capsules exhibit self-division.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shells 0.08 to 0.12, pores 0.002 to 0.006; length and breadth of the tubuli 0.03 to 0.05.

Genus 39. Caminosphæra,^[61] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the pores of which are prolonged into external branched radial tubuli with solid wall.

The genus Caminosphæra differs from Siphonosphæra (and from all other Collosphærida) in the ramification of the tubuli, which arise from the pores; the walls of the tubuli are solid, not fenestrated.

Shell spherical or subspherical, with a variable number (four to eight) of short cylindrical tubes, irregularly scattered, about as long as the radius of the shell. Every tube forked, with two cylindrical branches of the same size as the simple basal part of the tube. Mouth of the branches truncated, not dilated. Pores of the shell between the tubes very small, all of the same size, half as broad as their bars. Fifteen to twenty pores in the half meridian of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.001 to 0.002; length of the tubules 0.05 to 0.06, breadth of them 0.012 to 0.015.

Shell spherical, with a large number (twelve to twenty) of long cylindrical tubes, irregularly formed and scattered, somewhat longer than the diameter of the shell. Every tube forked at {112}the distal end, with two or three short irregular branches of unequal size and form; branches much shorter than the undivided basal part of the tube. Mouth of the branches narrowed, truncated. Pores of the shell between the tubes about half as broad, irregularly roundish or polygonal, two to three times as broad as their bars. Ten to twelve pores in the half meridian of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05 to 0.07, of the pores 0.006 to 0.009; length of the tubules 0.06 to 0.09, breadth of them 0.015 to 0.02.

Shell spherical, with a variable number (ten to fifteen) of cylindrical tubes, irregularly scattered, about as long as the radius of the shell. Every tube furcated, with two cylindrical branches of the same size as the simple basal part of the tube. Mouth of the branches dilated, funnel-like, twice as broad as the tube; the edges irregularly dentated or lacerated. Pores between the tubes small, one-third to one-sixth as broad as these, half as broad as their bars. Ten to twelve pores in the half meridian of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.14, of the pores 0.003 to 0.005; length of the tubules 0.06 to 0.08, breadth of them 0.02 to 0.03.

Shell spherical, with a variable number (eight to twelve) of long cylindrical tubes, irregularly branched and scattered, nearly as long as the diameter of the shell. Every tube with two to six (commonly three to four) branches of different sizes. Mouth of the branches dilated, funnel-like; the edges irregularly dentated or lacerated. Pores between the tubes half as broad as these, irregularly roundish, twice as broad as their bars. Ten to twelve pores in the half meridian of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, of the pores 0.006 to 0.01; length of the tubules 0.1 to 0.13, breadth of them 0.02 to 0.025.

Genus 40. Solenosphæra,^[62] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the pores of which are prolonged into external simple radial tubuli with fenestrated wall; outer mouth of the tubuli truncated, smooth.

The genus Solenosphæra differs from Siphonosphæra in the fenestration of the external radial tubes. A large number of shells, appertaining to this genus, were already described by Ehrenberg, and disposed in five different genera corresponding to the {113}different numbers of the tubuli:—Disolenia with two tubes, Trisolenia with three tubes, Tetrasolenia with four tubes, Pentasolenia with five tubes, Polysolenia with six or more tubes. All these five genera are without value, as those different numbers of tubes occur frequently intermingled in the individual cells of one and the same colony, wherever the form and structure of the tubes is inherited with sufficient constancy to determine the species.

Subgenus 1. Solenosphactra, Haeckel.

Definition.—Tubuli of the shell cylindrical or nearly cylindrical, the outer and inner apertures nearly of the same size.

Tetrasolenia quadrata, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. x. fig. 20.

Shell quite irregular roundish or polyhedral, with roundish pores of different size. Ten to fifteen pores in the half meridian of the shell, two to three times as broad as the bars. Porous tubuli of the shell in variable number (in one and the same colony), three to nine, mostly four to six; cylindrical or subcylindrical or somewhat conical, two to three times as broad as long, not longer than the half radius of the shell. Inner aperture of the tubuli commonly as broad as the half radius of the shell (or somewhat smaller), about as large as the truncated outer aperture. This species is closely related to Collosphæra polyedra (p. 97), and may be derived from it by a short tube-like prolongation of the larger apertures.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.16, of the pores 0.005 to 0.015; length of the tubules 0.02 to 0.03, breadth of them 0.04 to 0.06.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Stations 270, 271, 272, depths 2425 to 2925 fathoms.

Shell irregular roundish or subglobular, with roundish pores of different sizes, mostly somewhat broader than the bars. About twelve to sixteen pores on the half meridian of the shell. Porous tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), one to six, mostly three to four; cylindrical or nearly cylindrical, somewhat longer than broad, not longer than the radius of the shell. Inner aperture of the tubuli commonly as broad as the half radius of the shell, and a little smaller than the truncated outer aperture.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.07 to 0.1, of the pores 0.003 to 0.006; length of the tubuli 0.03 to 0.05, breadth of them 0.02 to 0.03.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Stations 266 to 274, depths 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Trisolenia megalactis, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 301, Taf. viii. fig. 19.

Shell irregularly polyhedrical, with very small roundish pores, scarcely half as broad as the bars. Only eight to ten pores on the half meridian of the shell. Porous tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), two to five, mostly three or four; cylindrical, about as long as the radius of the shell. Inner aperture of the tubuli commonly as broad as the half radius of the shell, and quite as broad as the truncated outer aperture.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.07 to 0.09, of the pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the bars 0.005 to 0.009; length of the tubuli 0.03 to 0.04, breadth of them 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific; California, Philippine Sea, Ehrenberg; Stations 256 to 285, depths 310 to 3000 fathoms.

Shell nearly spherical, with very small circular pores, scarcely one-third or one-fourth as broad as the bars. Only five to seven pores in the half meridian of the shell. Porous tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), two to nine, mostly seven or eight; cylindrical, somewhat curved or contorted, once and a half or twice as long as the diameter of the shell, with few very small and widely scattered pores. Inner and outer aperture of the tubuli have the same diameter, about one-fifth or one-fourth that of the shell. (This species is closely allied to Siphonosphæra serpula, but is distinguished from it by the long tortuous tubuli and the small scarce pores.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08 to 0.1, of the pores 0.001 to 0.002, of the bars 0.004 to 0.008; length of the tubuli 0.12 to 0.18, breadth of them 0.02 to 0.025.

Habitat.—North-eastern Pacific, between Sandwich Islands and California, Haltermann, surface.

Subgenus 2. Solenosphenia, Haeckel.

Definition.—Tubuli of the shell more or less conical, the inner aperture much larger than the outer aperture.

Tetrasolenia venosa, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 301, Taf. vii. fig. 22.

Shell irregular polyhedral or roundish, with a delicate network of large irregular polyhedral meshes, five to ten times as broad as the thin bars. Eight to twelve meshes on the half meridian of the shell. Fenestrated tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), one to five, commonly three or four, shaped like a short truncated cone, about half as long as broad on its base, shorter than the radius of the shell. Inner aperture of the cone nearly as broad as the half radius of the shell, about twice as broad as the truncated outer aperture.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.07 to 0.12, of the pores 0.008 to 0.016, of the bars 0.001; length of the tubuli 0.02 to 0.03, inner aperture 0.03 to 0.04, outer aperture 0.02 to 0.03.

Shell somewhat irregular, subspherical, with polygonal pores of different size. Twelve to fifteen pores in the half meridian of the shell, two to eight times as broad as their bars. Porous tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), three to nine, mostly five to seven; conical or nearly cylindrical, irregular, about as long as broad at their base. Inner aperture of the tubuli two to four times as broad as the broadest pores, and double as broad as the truncated circular outer aperture.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the pores 0.004 to 0.018, of the bars 0.002, length of the tubuli 0.04, inner aperture 0.04, outer 0.02.

Subgenus 3. Solenosphyra, Haeckel.

Definition.—Tubuli of the shell funnel-like, the outer aperture much larger than the inner.

Shell spherical or subspherical, with roundish pores of different size. Ten to twelve pores in the half meridian of the shell, two to three times as broad as the bars. Porous tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), four to eight, mostly five to seven, funnel-like, about as long as the diameter of the shell. Inner aperture of the tubuli commonly two-thirds or three-fourths as broad as the radius of the shell (or somewhat smaller), only one-half or two-thirds as broad as the dilated and truncated outer aperture.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.07 to 0.09, of the pores 0.006 to 0.018; length of the tubuli 0.06 to 0.08, diameter of the inner aperture 0.04 to 0.05, of the outer 0.06 to 0.08.

Shell irregular roundish or spherical, with small circular pores of different size. Fifteen to twenty pores in the half meridian of the shell, but still not as broad as the bars. Porous tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), three to six, commonly four or five, funnel-like, about as long as the radius of the shell. Inner aperture of the tubuli about half as broad as the radius of the shell, only one-half or one-third as broad as the truncated outer aperture. (This species is intermediate between the preceding and Siphonosphæra chonophora, Pl. 6, fig. 5.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.09 to 0.11, of the pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the bars 0.003 to 0.006; length of the tubuli 0.05 to 0.06; diameter of the inner aperture 0.02 to 0.03, of the outer aperture 0.05 to 0.07.

Genus 41. Otosphæra,^[63] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the pores of which are prolonged into external simple radial tubuli with fenestrated walls; outer mouth of the tubuli armed with a single tooth.

The genus Otosphæra differs from Solenosphæra by the single tooth on the external mouth of the tubuli, from Mazosphæra by the fenestration of the walls of the tubuli.

Shell quite irregular, polyhedral or roundish, very variable in size and form, with numerous very small pores, much smaller than the bars. Twenty to thirty pores in the half meridian of the shell. Porous tubuli of the shell commonly in variable number (one to four), but sometimes constant in number (one, two, three, or four) in the one and same colony. Tubuli irregular conical, commonly about as long as the radius of the shell; their outer aperture obliquely truncated, on one side prolonged into one large, prominent, bill-like, curved, acute tooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, of the pores 0.001 to 0.002; length of the tubuli 0.06 to 0.08, inner aperture 0.03, outer aperture 0.02.

Shell quite irregular, of extremely variable form, now inclining to roundish, now to polyhedral, with very numerous small pores, irregularly formed and distributed. Twelve to twenty-four pores in the half meridian of the shell, of very different size, for the most part larger than the bars. Porous tubuli of the shell of variable number (in one and the same colony), one to five, mostly three or four, of conical form, irregularly formed and scattered, commonly about half as long as the radius of the shell. Outer aperture of the tubuli obliquely truncated, with one large prominent, often curved, acute tooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.2, of the pores 0.003 to 0.005; length of the tubuli 0.01 to 0.05, inner aperture 0.04, outer aperture 0.03.

Habitat.—Central Tropical Pacific, Stations 268 to 272, depths 2425 to 2925 fathoms.

Genus 42. Coronosphæra,^[64] n. gen.

Definition.—Collosphærida with simple shells, the pores of which are prolonged into external simple radial tubuli with fenestrated walls; outer mouth of the tubuli armed with a coronal of spines.

The genus Coronosphæra differs from Solenosphæra by the coronated mouth of the tubuli, from Trypanosphæra by the fenestration of the walls of the tubuli.

Shell spherical or subspherical, with a variable number (fifteen to twenty) of short, coronal-like tubules, irregularly scattered, about half as long as the radius of the shell. Outer aperture of the tubuli irregularly dentated, a little dilated, and not much broader than the inner aperture, one-half or one-third as broad as the shell radius. Pores of the shell and of the tubuli circular or roundish, very irregularly scattered, mostly one-half or one-third as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11 to 14, of the pores 0.002 to 0.004, of the bars 0.006 to 0.012; length of the tubuli 0.03, inner aperture 0.02 to 0.03, outer aperture 0.03 to 0.04.

Shell spherical or subspherical, with a variable number (eight to twelve) of large, funnel-like tubules, irregularly scattered, about as long as the radius of the shell. Outer aperture of the tubuli irregularly dentated, much dilated, somewhat broader than the shell radius, three to four times as broad as the inner circular aperture. Pores of the shell and of the tubuli circular or roundish, of very different size, one to three times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.3, of the pores 0.003 to 0.01, of the bars 0.002 to 0.004; length of the tubuli 0.1, inner aperture 0.02 to 0.03, outer aperture 0.06 to 0.18.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Stations 271, 272, depths 2425 and 2600 fathoms respectively.

Shell irregular roundish, with a variable number (five to ten) of long, curved tubules, about as long as the shell diameter. The inner half of the tubuli is narrow, cylindrical; the outer half funnel-like dilated, similar to the flower of Convolvulus. The outer aperture is elegantly dentated, five to six times as broad as the inner aperture. Pores of the shell and of the tubuli very irregular roundish, about as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08 to 0.09, of the pores and bars 0.004 to 0.008; length of the tubuli 0.07 to 0.1, inner aperture 0.01, outer aperture 0.05.

Subfamily Clathrosphærida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 472.

Definition.—Collosphærida with a double lattice-shell around every central capsule of the cœnobium; both concentric shells connected by irregular or subradial beams, commonly solid or lamellar staffs, rarely hollow tubes.

Genus 43. Clathrosphæra,^[65] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 472.

Definition.—Collosphærida with a double lattice-shell around every central capsule of the cœnobium; surface of the outer shell smooth.

The genus Clathrosphæra (with smooth surface) and the following Xanthiosphæra (with spiny surface) form together the small subfamily, Clathrosphærida, different from the other Collosphærida by the double lattice-shell. From the surface of the inner primary shell arise either solid spines or hollow tubes, which unite by the anastomosis of irregular branches and so form the outer secondary shell, often very incomplete and irregular. All Clathrosphærida seem to inhabit great depths.

Subgenus 1. Clathrosphærula, Haeckel.

Definition.—The connecting staffs between both shells are hollow tubes (derived from Siphonosphæra).

Inner shell spherical, with irregular roundish large meshes, now broader now smaller than their bars. Eight to ten meshes in the half meridian of the shell. All these meshes are prolonged into short cylindrical hollow tubes, about as long as broad, somewhat constricted in the middle. From the margins of the outer openings of these tubes proceed very numerous and delicate siliceous filaments, which all lie on the same spherical face, branch, anastomose, and twine over the openings and the intervals between them, forming a very thin, arachnoid spherical outer shell. The meshes of this are quite irregular polygonal, of very different size and form. The radius of the inner shell bears to that of the outer a ratio = 5 : 6.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the inner shell 0.11 to 0.13, of the outer 0.13 to 0.16; meshes of the inner shell 0.005 to 0.02, of the outer 0.005 to 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Clathrosphærium, Haeckel.

Definition.—The connecting staffs between the two shells are solid rods or lamellar spines (derived from Acrosphæra).

Inner shell spherical, with irregular roundish meshes, two or three times as broad as the bars. Ten to twelve meshes in the half meridian of the shell. From its surface arise numerous conical radial spines (with base often fenestrated), which at equal distances from the surface send out lateral branches. All these branches lie on a spherical face, and form by communications the irregular, very delicate, arachnoid network of the outer shell, quite unlike that of the inner, with large polygonal meshes of very different size. Eight to sixteen meshes in the half meridian of the shell. Surface of the outer shell nearly spherical, somewhat uneven, like a spider's web. The radius of the inner shell bears to that of the outer a ratio = 3 : 4.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the inner shell 0.12 to 0.14, of the outer 0.15 to 0.18; pores of the inner shell 0.003 to 0.02, of the outer 0.01 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms.

Inner shell spherical or subspherical, with irregular roundish meshes, about half as broad as the bars. Twelve to sixteen meshes in the half meridian of the shell. From its surface arise numerous oblique irregular staffs or broad and thin lamellæ, which branch quite irregularly, and by communications of the branches form the thin outer shell. This is quite irregular roundish or subspherical, very unlike the inner, with large polygonal meshes of different size, six to twelve in the half meridian of the shell. Bridges between the meshes very variable, now very thin filamentous, now very broad lamellar. Outer surface very uneven or tuberculated, but not spinous. The radius of the inner shell bears to that of the outer a ratio = 5 : 6.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the inner shell 0.1 to 0.13, of the outer 0.12 to 0.18; pores of the inner shell 0.003 to 0.009, of the outer 0.01 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Stations 270 to 274, depths 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Genus 44. Xanthiosphæra,^[66] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 472.

Definition.—Collosphærida with a double lattice-shell around every central capsule of the cœnobium; surface of the outer shell thorny or spiny.

The genus Xanthiosphæra differs from the foregoing Clathrosphæra by spines or thorns arising from the surface of the outer shell, commonly very irregular.

Inner shell spherical, with irregular polygonal meshes, three to five times as broad as their narrow bars. Six to eight meshes in the half meridian of the shell. From its surface arise at the nodes of the network numerous thin radial spines, which, at equal distances from the surface, {120}send out lateral branches. All these branches lie on a spherical face, and form by communications the irregular delicate network of the outer shell, very like that of the inner, with large polygonal meshes, six to eight meshes in the half meridian of the shell. Surface of the outer shell covered with numerous straight spines, prolongations of the inner spines, but only half as long as these. The radius of the inner shell bears to that of the outer a ratio = 3 : 5.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the inner shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the outer 0.15 to 0.19; pores of the inner shell 0.02 to 0.04 to 0.06, of the outer 0.04 to 0.06 to 0.08; length of the outer spines 0.01 to 0.02.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Station 263, depth 2650 fathoms.

Inner shell spherical, with irregular roundish meshes, one-half to two times as broad as the bars. Fifteen to twenty meshes in the half meridian of the shell. From its surface arise numerous thin radial spines, which at equal distances from the surface send out lateral branches. All these branches lie on the face of a sphere, and form by communications the irregular delicate network of the outer shell, very unlike that of the inner, with large polygonal meshes, twelve to twenty-four in the half meridian of the shell. Surface of the outer shell covered with numerous straight spines, prolongations of the inner spines, and of the same length. The radius of the inner shell bears to that of the outer a ratio = 3 : 4.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the inner shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the outer 0.13 to 0.16; pores of the inner shell 0.002 to 0.008, of the outer 0.01 to 0.03; length of the outer spines 0.02 to 0.03.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Stations 270, 272, depth 2925 and 2600 fathoms respectively.

Inner shell spherical or subspherical, with very small roundish pores, quite irregularly scattered, one-fourth to three-fourth as broad as their bars. Ten to twenty pores in the half meridian of the shell. From its surface arise in an extremely irregular and variable manner numerous oblique spines, often curved, often lamellar, and perforated by pores, sometimes hollow, fenestrated cones. At different distances from the surface these spines send out lateral curved branches, which by communications form the delicate and very irregular network of the outer shell. This network is often incomplete and very unlike that of the inner shell, with large polygonal meshes, six to eighteen in the half meridian of the shell. Surface of the outer shell covered with numerous small, curved, and oblique spines, prolongations of the inner spines, but scarcely one-third to one-half as long as these. The radius of the inner shell bears to that of the outer a ratio = 3 : 4.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the inner shell 0.08 to 0.12, of the outer 0.11 to 0.15; pores of the inner shell 0.001 to 0.009, of the outer 0.01 to 0.04; length of the outer spines 0.005 to 0.009.

Habitat.—Central area of the Tropical Pacific, Stations 263 to 274, depths 2350 to 3000 fathoms.

Family VII. Stylosphærida, Haeckel (Pls. 13-17).

Definition.—Sphæroidea with two radial spines on the surface of the spherical shell, opposite in one axis; living solitary (not associated in colonies).

The family Stylosphærida comprises a large number of very common Sphæroidea, and is distinguished from all others by the possession of two radial spines which are placed in one axis of the spherical shell.^[67] By the expression of this "main axis" as a solid rod they form the transition to the Prunoidea, in which the whole shell is more or less transformed according to this "monaxial growth." But in these latter the shell, as well as the central capsule, becomes ellipsoidal, prolonged in one axis, whilst in the former they remain spherical. However, the distinction of both nearly allied groups is sometimes difficult.

The most simple Stylosphærida are the Xiphostylida, with one single spherical lattice-shell. To this ancestral group all other subfamilies can be opposed as "Stylosphærida concentrica," as their carapace is composed of two or more concentric lattice-shells: two in the Sphærostylida, three in the Amphistylida, four in the Cromyostylida, five or more in the Caryostylida. In all these four subfamilies the concentric shells are simple (not spongy) fenestrated spheres. In a sixth subfamily, in the Spongostylida, the shell is wholly or partially composed of a spongy irregular wicker-work, with or without a medullary shell in the centre.

Both the radial spines in all Stylosphærida are opposed normally in one axis; but in many species besides the normal form occur individual abnormalities, in which the two spines are not accurately opposed in this main axis, but placed in two different axes, intersecting at a smaller or larger angle. In the majority of the Stylosphærida both opposite spines have the same size and form; but in some genera they are more or less different, often in a very striking degree. The same differences occur in the nearly allied groups of Prunoidea, in the Ellipsida and Druppulida.

The distal ends of both spines are commonly free; but in the small group of Saturnalida (Saturnalis with one single shell, Saturnulus with two concentric shells, Saturninus with three concentric shells) the distal ends of both spines are united, at equal distances from the centre, by a circular or elliptical ring. This remarkable peculiarity occurs in no other group of Sphæroidea, and consequently brings the Saturnalida into close relation with the Discoidea.

Synopsis of the Genera of Stylosphærida.

Subfamily Xiphostylida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 450.

Genus 45. Xiphosphæra,^[68] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with one single lattice-sphere and two free spines of equal size and form.

The genus Xiphosphæra is the most simple form of all Stylosphærida, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form of this family. On the surface of a simple {123}spherical lattice-shell, enclosing the central capsule, arise two equal, free, radial spines, opposite to each other on the poles of one axis.

Subgenus 1. Xiphosphærantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell regular, of nearly equal size and form; surface smooth or a little rough, without spines or thorns (other than the two polar spines).

Pores regular, hexagonal, eight to nine times as broad as the thin bars. Ten to twelve pores on the half equator. Shell very thin walled; surface smooth. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the axis of the sphere, as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12 to 0.13, pores 0.016 to 0.018, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.1 to 0.15, basal thickness 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, surface; Stations 271 to 274, depths 2425 to 2750 fathoms.

Pores regular, circular, with prominent hexagonal crests between them. On the half equator ten to twelve pores, of the same breadth as the crested bars. Shell thin walled; surface smooth. Polar spines three-sided prismatic, about twice as long as the axis of the sphere, twice as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.07 to 0.09, pores and bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.15 to 0.2, basal thickness 0.01.

Pores regular, circular, with prominent hexagonal frames. On the half equator fifteen to eighteen pores, of the same breadth as the bars. Shell very thick walled; surface smooth, honeycomb-like. Polar spines conical, smooth, about as long as the axis of the shell, twice as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12 to 0.13, pores and bars 0.005; thickness of the shell wall 0.013; length of the polar spines 0.12 to 0.15, basal breadth 0.01.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally lobed or rosette-shaped, three times as broad as the bars. Ten to twelve pores on the half equator. Shell thick walled; surface smooth. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, one to two times as long as the axis of the shell, as broad at the base as one pore {124}(very similar to Xiphostylus phasianus, Pl. 13, fig. 9, but different in the equal size and similar form of the two large polar spines).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12, pores 0.015, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.1 to 0.2, basal breadth 0.02.

Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars. On the half equator sixteen to twenty pores. Shell thick walled; surface smooth. Polar spines conical or nearly cylindrical, about as long as the axis of the sphere, as broad at the base as two pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.1 to 0.13, pores 0.006, bars 0.002; polar spines 0.1 to 0.15 long, 0.01 thick.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 265 to 268, depths 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, funnel-shaped. Twenty to thirty pores on the half equator. Shell very thick walled; surface smooth. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the radius of the sphere, as broad at the base as two pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.22 to 0.35, pores 0.008 to 0.01, bars 0.005; polar spines 0.1 to 0.15 long, 0.02 thick.

Pores regular, circular, about as broad as the bars, double contoured. Eight to ten on the half equator. Shell thin walled; surface smooth. Polar spines conical, about as long as the radius of the sphere, as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12 to 0.15, pores and bars 0.02; polar spines 0.06 to 0.09 long, 0.02 thick.

Subgenus 2. Xiphosphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell regular, of nearly equal size and form; surface thorny or spiny, covered with regularly distributed papillæ or thorns (in addition to the two large polar spines).

Pores regular, circular, separated by hexagonal elevated frames, the sharp crest of which is elegantly denticulated; in each corner of the hexagons (between three pores) is a short radial spine, {125}about as long as one pore. On the half equator sixteen to twenty pores, of the same breadth as the bars. Shell thick walled; whole surface spiny. Polar spines cylindrical, at the apex conical, about as long as the axis of the sphere, three to four times as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.1, pores and bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.07 to 0.11, thickness 0.015 to 0.02.

Pores regular, circular, with hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars. Ten to twelve pores on the half equator. Shell thin walled, with spiny surface; in each corner of the hexagons is one bristle-like radial spine twice as long as one pore. Polar spines three-sided prismatic, at the apex pyramidal, nearly twice as long as the axis of the sphere, as broad at the base as two pores (similar to Ellipsoxiphus palliatus, Pl. 14, fig. 7).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.15, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.2 to 0.25, breadth 0.02.

Pores regular, circular, as broad as the bars, funnel-shaped. Fifteen to twenty pores on the half equator. Shell thick walled, covered with bristle-like spines, about twice as long as one pore. Polar spines conical, thick, about as long as the axis of the sphere, twice as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12, pores and bars 0.01; length of the polar spines 0.14, basal breadth 0.02.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Barbados rocks; living in the greatest depth of the Tropical Pacific, Station 225, depth 4475.

Pores regular, circular, two to three times as broad as the bars; twenty-eight to thirty-two on the half equator. Shell thick walled, covered with short conical thorns. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the radius of the sphere, as broad at the base as three pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.25 to 0.3, pores 0.01, bars 0.004; polar spines 0.1 to 0.15 long, 0.03 broad.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Sicily (Cattanisetta).

Subgenus 3. Xiphosphærissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface smooth or a little rough, without spines or thorns (other than the polar spines).

Pores irregular, roundish, of different sizes, two to four times as broad as the bars. Sixteen to twenty pores on the half equator. Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Polar spines conical, about as long as the axis of the sphere, very thick at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.15 to 0.2, pores 0.004 to 0.008, bars 0.002; polar spines 0.18 to 0.24 long, at the base 0.02 thick.

Pores irregular, roundish, double contoured, of very unequal size, two to seven times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Shell thick walled; surface a little rough. Polar spines club-shaped, with prominent edges, about half as long as the axis of the sphere; thinner at both ends than in the middle. (Differs from Ellipsoxiphus claviger, Pl. 14, fig. 3, in the spherical shell and shorter spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.2, pores 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.003; polar spines 0.06 long, 0.02 broad.

Subgenus 4. Xiphosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface thorny or spiny (besides the two large polar spines).

Pores irregular, roundish, three to five times as broad as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. Scattered on the surface of the thick-walled shell are from twenty to thirty strong three-sided pyramidal spines of unequal size, the largest twice as long as the largest pores. Polar spines very strong, nearly three-sided prismatic, with curved edges, nearly as long as the axis of the sphere and twice as broad as the largest pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.17, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.13, thickness 0.02 to 0.03.

Pores irregular, roundish, one to two times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Surface of the thick-walled shell covered with numerous short conical thorns. Polar spines cylindro-conical, one and a half to two times as long as the axis of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.18, pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.008; length of the polar spines 0.25 to 0.3, thickness 0.02.

Genus 46. Xiphostylus,^[69] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with one single lattice-sphere and two free spines of different size or form.

The genus Xiphostylus differs from the foregoing Xiphosphæra in the unequal size or form of both polar spines, which become more or less differentiated.

Subgenus 1. Xiphostylantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell regular, of nearly equal size and form; surface smooth or a little rough, without spines or thorns.

Pores regular, circular, with elevated hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars. Eight to ten pores on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, as broad at the base as one hexagon; the major spine four to five times as long as the minor, which is about equal to the radius of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12, pores 0.012, bars 0.006; length of the major polar spine 0.16 to 0.2, of the minor 0.04 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars. Eight to ten pores on the half equator. Outer opening of each pore elegantly lobed, with eight indentations. Surface a little rough. Polar spines very unequal; major spine sword-like, sharply edged, about as long as the diameter of the sphere; minor spine scarcely half so long, pommel-shaped, with nine (?) wing-like edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.13, inner circular opening of the pores 0.01, outer eight-lobed opening 0.015, bars 0.005; length of the major polar spine 0.14, of the minor 0.06, breadth 0.03.

Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines compressed, two-edged, at the base three to four times as broad as {128}one pore; the major spine somewhat longer than the diameter of the shell, the minor scarcely one-third or one-half as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.14, pores 0.006, bars 0.002; length of the major spine 0.16 to 0.18, of the minor 0.05 to 0.07, basal breadth 0.02.

Pores regular, circular, five times as broad as the bars. Twelve to sixteen pores on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines very unequal; the major conical spine one and a half to three times as long as the diameter of the sphere; the minor pommel-shaped, scarcely one-third as long (length of both spines very variable).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.13, pores 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the major spine 0.2 to 0.4, of the minor 0.05 to 0.08.

Lithomespilus alauda, Haeckel, 1881, Prodrom. et Atlas, loc. cit.

Pores subregular, circular, three to four times as broad as the bars; fifteen to eighteen on the half equator. Surface a little rough. Polar spines irregularly conical or pyramidal, scarcely as long as the radius of the sphere; one spine simple, the other composed of a bunch of four or five spines united at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.11, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the polar spines 0.03 to 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Rhabdolithis pipa, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. iii. fig. 4.

Pores subregular, circular, about the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Surface smooth or a little rough. Polar spines cylindrical, very irregularly curved like S or contorted, the major three to six times as long as the diameter of the sphere, the minor scarcely one-fourth as long as the former, at the end truncated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.07, pores and bars 0.005; length of the major polar spine 0.2 to 0.4, of the minor 0.06 to 0.09, basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Xiphostyletta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell regular, of nearly equal size and form; surface thorny or spiny (other than the two large polar spines).

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Surface thorny, between every three pores a short conical thorn. Polar spines three-sided prismatic, the major somewhat longer than the diameter of the sphere, the minor scarcely one-third as long, pommel-shaped.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.17, pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the major polar spine 0.2, of the minor 0.05, basal breadth 0.015.

Pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the half equator. Polar spines cylindrical, the major somewhat longer than the axis of the sphere, the minor shorter, surrounded by a group of from four to eight shorter conical spines. Surface of the opposite hemisphere smooth, without by-spines.

Lithomespilus picus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodrom. et Atlas.

Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. Polar spines cylindrical, conical at the apex, the major once and a half to twice as long as the diameter of the shell, the minor scarcely half so long; around the latter a group of twelve to twenty shorter conical spines, irregularly scattered. Surface of the other hemisphere smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.13, pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the major polar spine 0.2 to 0.24, of the minor 0.08 to 0.09, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 3. Xiphostylissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregular, of unequal size or form; surface smooth or a little rough, without thorns.

Lithomespilus trogon, Haeckel, 1881, Prodrom. et Atlas.

Pores irregular, roundish or subcircular, two to three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Surface smooth. Major polar spine three-sided prismatic, once and a half to twice as long as the axis of the sphere; minor spine quite rudimentary, scarcely longer than broad, but surrounded by a group of from three to six similar short spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.1, pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.005 to 0.008; length of the major spine 0.15 to 0.18, of the minor 0.01 to 0.02, basal breadth 0.02.

Pores irregular, roundish, two to five times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines cylindrical, very stout, nearly half as thick as the radius of the shell; major spine two to four times as long as the diameter of the shell; minor spine obliquely inserted, scarcely longer than the diameter, divided at the end into two short, hook-shaped, curved branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.08, pores 0.002 to 0.005, bars 0.001; breadth of the spines 0.02, length of the major spine 0.15 to 0.2, of the minor 0.09.

Pores irregular, roundish, two to six times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. Each pore with three to six lobes, composed of three to six confluent smaller pores. Surface smooth. Major spine conical, curved, somewhat longer than the axis of the sphere; minor spine somewhat shorter, pommel-like, edged.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.07, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.003; length of the major spine 0.08, of the minor 0.06, basal thickness 0.02.

Pores irregular, roundish, composed of two to six smaller confluent pores. On the half equator six to eight large pores, and twenty to thirty small pores; bars between the smaller very thin. Surface a little rough. Major polar spine conical, S-shaped, about twice as long as the axis of the shell; minor spine pommel-shaped, edged, scarcely as long as its radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12, large pores 0.01 to 0.03, small pores 0.004 to 0.008, bars 0.001 to 0.004; length of the major spine 0.2, of the minor 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 4. Xiphostylomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface thorny or spiny.

Pores irregular, roundish, one to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. Polar spines very unequal; major cylindrical, twice as long as the axis of the sphere; minor scarcely half as long, obliquely inserted, like a bird's head, surrounded by a group of ten to twenty smaller conical spines. Opposite hemisphere smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.005, pores 0.002 to 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the major spine 0.09, of the minor 0.05, basal breadth 0.01.

Pores irregular, roundish, one to three times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the half equator. Whole surface spiny. Major polar spine three-sided pyramidal, somewhat longer than the diameter of the sphere; minor scarcely so long as its half radius, pommel-like, edged.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12, pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the major polar spine 0.15, of the minor 0.03, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 47. Saturnalis,^[70] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with one single lattice-sphere and two equal opposite spines, connected at the distal end by a circular or elliptical ring.

The genus Saturnalis (with simple lattice-sphere) and the two similar genera Saturnulus (with two concentric spheres) and Saturninus (with three spheres) form together the small peculiar group of Saturnalida, distinguished by a remarkable circular or elliptical ring, connecting the distal ends of the two equal opposite polar spines. This ring indicates a certain equatorial plane, and therefore brings these Sphæroidea into relation with the Discoidea.

Subgenus 1. Saturnalina, Haeckel.

Pores of the spherical shell regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars. Ten to twelve pores on the half equator. Ring circular, smooth, its diameter three times as great as that of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.07, pores 0.005, bars 0.0025; diameter of the circular ring 0.2, thickness of the axial beams and the ring 0.01.

Pores of the spherical shell regular, circular, with elevated hexagonal frames, of the same breadth as the bars. Sixteen to twenty pores on the half equator. Ring elliptical, smooth, somewhat constricted at the poles of the axis, its diameter three times as great as that of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.09, pores and bars 0.005, major axis of the elliptical ring 0.27 to 0.3, minor axis 0.19 to 0.2; thickness of the ring and of the axial beams 0.01.

Lithocircus mesocena, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. iii. fig. 1.

Pores of the spherical shell regular, circular, without hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars. Eight to ten pores on the half equator. Ring circular, smooth, its diameter four times as great as that of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.07, pores 0.006, bars 0.003; diameter of the circular ring 0.28, thickness of the ring and both axial beams 0.01.

Pores of the spherical shell irregular, roundish, often somewhat lobed, one to three times as broad as the bars; fifteen to twenty on the half equator. Ring circular, smooth, with four prominent edges, its diameter twice as great as that of the sphere. (The figured specimen is a young or not fully developed one; afterwards I found in the same locality other specimens with quite perfect rings, similar to the edged ring of Saturnulus annulus, Pl. 16, fig. 17.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.09 to 0.1, pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.004; diameter of the circular ring 0.2 to 0.24, thickness of the ring and the polar beams 0.01.

Habitat.—Indian Ocean; fossil in the Nicobar rocks; living at great depths near Zanzibar, 2200 fathoms, Pullen.

Subgenus 2. Saturnalium, Haeckel.

Haliomma species, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xx. fig. 2.

Pores of the spherical shell subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars. Twelve to sixteen pores on the half equator. Ring circular, armed with ten to twelve strong conical, irregular spines, its diameter twice as great as that of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.08, pores 0.006, bars 0.003; diameter of the circular ring 0.16; length of the radial spines 0.02 to 0.04; thickness of the ring and the axial beams 0.01.

Pores of the spherical shell regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Ring circular, armed with fifteen to twenty strong, conical, irregular spines, partly simple, partly divided into two or three irregular branches; diameter of the ring two and a half times as great as that of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.08, pores 0.004, bars 0.002; diameter of the circular ring 0.2, length of its spines 0.02 to 0.03; thickness of the ring and the radial beams 0.01.

Subfamily Sphærostylida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 451.

Genus 48. Stylosphæra,^[71] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. Berlin Akad., p. 54.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and two free spines of equal size and similar form.

The genus Stylosphæra, the most simple form of the Sphærostylida, can be derived either from Xiphosphæra by duplication of the spherical shell, or from Carposphæra by development of two opposite polar spines. The inner or medullary shell is enclosed in the central capsule, whilst the outer or cortical shell lies outside it; the two are connected by two or more radial beams, piercing the wall of the capsule.

Subgenus 1. Stylosphærantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth or a little rough, without spines or thorns.

Radial proportion of the two concentric spheres = 3 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, hexagonal pores, three times as broad as the thin bars; twelve on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the axis of the cortical shell, one-tenth as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; diameter of the inner shell 0.06; length of the polar spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.02.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 4 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, smooth; pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; ten on the half equator. Polar spines conical, as long as the radius of the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.24, pores 0.012, bars 0.006; medullary shell 0.06; length of the polar spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.024.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 3 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth; pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars. Each pore on its outer opening with eight regular lobules, flower-like. Nine to ten pores on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, with three strong prominent edges, about as long as the axis, as broad as one pore. (Sometimes, as in the figured specimen, one spine is smaller than the other; this variety, otherwise identical, may be called Sphærostylus calliope.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, pores 0.015, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.04; length of the polar spine 0.08 to 0.12, breadth 0.02.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 2 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth; pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, very robust, with thick prismatic edges, about as long as the axis of the cortical shell, one-third as broad at the base. (Sometimes, as in the figured specimen, one spine is greater than the other; this form may be called Sphærostylus clio.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.06; length of the polar spines 0.08 to 0.12, basal breadth 0.03 to 0.04.

Radial proportion of the two spheres = 3 : 1. Cortical shell very thin walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Polar spines cylindrical, pointed, once and a half to twice as long as the axis of the outer sphere, scarcely broader than one pore. The two spheres are connected only by the two opposite beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12 to 0.16, pores 0.006 to 0.009, bars 0.002 to 0.003; inner shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.18 to 0.22, breadth 0.01.

Haliomma dixyphos, Ehrenberg, 1854, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 83; Mikrogeol., Taf. xxii. fig. 31.

Haliomma dixyphos, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol. p. 433.

Radial proportion of the two spheres = 2 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines about as long as the axis of the outer shell, three-sided pyramidal, at the base twice as broad as one pore. (The two spheres connected by four beams, two opposite in the main axis, two opposite in the equatorial axis.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, pores 0.01, bars 0.05; inner shell 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.08 to 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, Station 332, surface; fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily.

Subgenus 2. Stylosphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface thorny or spiny.

Stylosphæra setosa, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 320; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. viii. fig. 15.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 2 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, spiny; pores regular, hexagonal, four times as broad as the bars. Six to eight pores on the half equator. Polar spines conical, thin, scarcely as long as the radius of the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.1, pores 0.002, bars 0.005; medullary shell 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.01.

Habitat.—Philippine Sea, depth 3300 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 206, depth 2100 fathoms.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 3 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, spiny; pores regular, circular, with hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Polar spines conical, as thick as one pore at the base, about as long as the axis of the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.12, pores 0.012, bars 0.006; medullary shell 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.012.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 3 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, spiny, with regular, circular pores, four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided prismatic, pointed, as broad as one pore, only one-third as long as the axis of the sphere (the two shells connected by four thin beams, two opposite in the main axis, two in the equatorial axis).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, pores 0.012, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.04, thickness 0.013.

Stylosphæra hispida, Ehrenberg, 1854, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 246; Mikrogeol, Taf. xxxvi. fig. 26.

Haliomma hispidum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 433.

Radial proportion of the two spheres = 3 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, spiny, with regular, circular pores of the same breadth as the bars; ten to fifteen on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided prismatic, pointed, about as long as the axis of the outer sphere, nearly as broad at the base as the inner sphere. (Compare Sphærostylus hispidus; also Ehrenberg, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1874, p. 259.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1 to 0.12, pores and bars 0.004; inner shell 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.1 to 0.15, basal breadth 0.03.

Stylosphæra liostylus, Ehrenberg, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxv. fig. 3.

Radial proportion of the two spheres = 3 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, thorny, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Polar spines conical, once and a half to twice as long as the axis of the outer sphere, half as broad at the base as its radius. (This species, common in the Barbados rocks, is different from Sphærostylus liostylus, loc. cit., fig. 2, which Ehrenberg believed identical.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, pores 0.01, bars 0.0035; inner shell 0.03; length of the polar spines 0.14 to 0.18, basal breadth 0.02.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Barbados rocks; living in the depths of the North Atlantic, Gulf Stream, Florida.

Subgenus 3. Stylosphærissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface smooth or a little rough, without thorns or spines.

Radial proportion of the two spheres = 2 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, somewhat irregular, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, one to three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, scarcely as long as the axis of the outer sphere, and nearly as broad at the base as its radius. (A very variable and irregular form.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.07 to 0.09, pores 0.003 to 0.009, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.03 to 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.04 to 0.07, basal breadth 0.03.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 2 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish, double-contoured pores, confluent in groups of two to six. On the half equator six to nine groups and fifteen to twenty pores; bars between them of very variable breadth. Polar spines very strong, three-sided pyramidal, twice as long as the axis of the outer sphere, half as broad at the base as its radius. (Nearly allied to Lithatractus jugatus, Pl. 16, fig. 2, but differs in the truly spherical form of both shells and the double length of the polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, pores 0.005 to 0.02; inner shell 0.07; length of the polar spines 0.25 to 0.3, basal breadth 0.03.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 3 : 1 or 4 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, one to three times as broad as the bars; fifteen to twenty-five on the half equator. Polar spines conical, about as long as the axis of the outer sphere, as broad at the base as the inner shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15 to 0.2, pores 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.004 to 0.008; inner shell 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.15 to 0.25, basal breadth 0.05.

Subgenus 4. Stylosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface spiny or thorny.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 2 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, thorny, with irregular, roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars; eight to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines conical, one to one and a half times as long as the axis of the outer sphere, one-fourth to one-sixth as thick at the base. (Resembles Sphærostylus ophidium, Pl. 16, fig. 14, but differs in the straight regular conical polar spines, both of equal length and similar form.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.06; polar spines 0.1 to 0.16 long, 0.03 broad.

Radial proportion of the two shells = 3 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, thorny, with irregular, roundish pores, two to five times as broad as the bars; fourteen to eighteen on the half equator. {138}Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the axis of the outer sphere, one-fourth as broad as its radius. (Similar to Xiphosphæra vesta, Pl. 14, fig. 6.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, pores 0.008 to 0.015, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.05; polar spines 0.12 long, 0.02 broad.

Genus 49. Sphærostylus,^[72] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and two free spines, of different size or form.

The genus Sphærostylus differs from Stylosphæra in the different size or form of the two polar spines, and therefore has the same relation to it that Xiphostylus bears to Xiphosphæra.

Subgenus 1. Sphærostylantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth or a little rough, without thorns.

Stylosphæra liostylus, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. xxv. fig. 2.

Cortical shell thin walled, with rough surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the cortical shell regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines cylindrical, as broad as one pore, with conical apex; the minor spine about as long as the axis of the outer shell, the major three to four times as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.12, pores 0.12, bars 0.006; diameter of the inner sphere 0.04; length of the major polar spine 0.3 to 0.4, of the minor 0.1 to 0.15, breadth 0.012.

Stylosphæra flexuosa, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. xxv. fig. 5.

Cortical shell thick walled, with rough surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the cortical shell regular circular, of the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Polar spines cylindrical, S-like curved, irregular; the minor scarcely as long as the axis of the outer sphere, the major two to three times as long. (In the figure of Ehrenberg the spines are broken off; I have found them myself constantly irregular and of unequal length, sometimes with conical apex.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.08, pores and bars 0.006; inner sphere 0.03; length of the major polar spine 0.15 to 0.25, of the minor 0.07 to 0.09, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface, twice as broad as the medullary shell; its network has regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Polar spines very strong, three-sided pyramidal; the major nearly twice as long as the axis of the outer sphere, the minor scarcely as long as its radius. (Nearly related to Stylosphæra clio, Pl. 16, fig. 7, but differs in the slender form and unequal length of the polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.14, pores 0.01, bars 0.03; inner sphere 0.07; length of the major spine 0.25, of the minor 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface and regular network; the pores circular, hexagonally-lobed, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Medullary shell half as large, with very small circular pores, eight to ten on the half equator. Major polar spine scarcely as long as the axis of the outer shell, curved like a horn; minor spine scarcely half as long, pommel-like, edged. (Sometimes, by prolongation of the main axis, the spherical shells become ellipsoidal and thus the species is transformed into Druppatractus hippocampus.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.08, pores 0.009, bars 0.003; inner sphere 0.04; length of the major spine 0.07, of the minor 0.03, breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Sphærostyletta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and form; surface spiny or thorny.

Cortical shell thick walled, spiny, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Major polar spine about as long as the axis of the outer sphere, three-sided pyramidal; minor spine scarcely half as long, pommel-shaped, edged. (Similar in general form to Xiphatractus glyptodon, Pl. 17, figs. 9, 10; but differs in the simple medullary shell, the spherical form of both shells, and the simple circular regular pores.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.12, pores 0.014, bars 0.007; inner sphere 0.06; length of the major spine 0.13, of the minor 0.05, greatest breadth 0.04.

Subgenus 3. Sphærostylissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface smooth or a little rough.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, about twice as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores, scarcely larger than the bars; fifteen to twenty on the half equator. Polar spines conical, the major once and a half to twice as long as the axis of the outer sphere, the minor scarcely as long as its radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.14, pores and bars 0.008 to 0.012; inner sphere 0.065; length of the major spine 0.2 to 0.3, of the minor 0.05 to 0.07, basal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores, two to three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines very unequal; the major three-sided pyramidal, one and a half times as long as the axis of the outer sphere; the minor scarcely as long as its radius, edged, pommel-like.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.12, pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.005; inner sphere 0.04; length of the major spine 0.2, of the minor 0.05, breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 4. Sphærostylomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface spiny or thorny.

Stylosphæra ophidium, Haeckel, 1878, Atlas, loc. cit.

Cortical shell thin walled, thorny, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores; eight to ten on the half equator. Polar spines conical, more or less curved or S-shaped; the minor scarcely as long as the axis of the outer sphere, the major two to three times as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.11, pores 0.01 to 0.017, bars 0.003 to 0.007; diameter of the inner sphere 0.06, pores 0.005 to 0.008, bars 0.002 to 0.004; length of the major polar spine 0.25, of the minor 0.1, basal breadth 0.03.

Genus 50. Saturnulus,^[73] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and two equal opposite spines, the distal ends of which are connected by a circular or elliptical ring.

The genus Saturnulus differs from the similar Saturnalis by the duplication of the spherical lattice-shell; the inner lies within, the outer without the central capsule.

Cortical shell smooth, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, of the same breadth as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. Ring circular, smooth, without edges, its diameter three times as great as that of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.08, pores and bars 0.004; of the inner sphere 0.04, of the ring 0.24.

Cortical shell smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, of the same breadth as the bars; eighteen to twenty on the half equator. Ring elliptical, smooth, without edges, somewhat constricted at the poles of the minor axis, its major diameter four times as great as that of the sphere. Differs from Saturnalis annularis, Pl. 13, fig. 16, mainly in the possession of a medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.1, pores and bars 0.005; inner sphere 0.033; major axis of the ring 0.4, minor 0.3.

Cortical shell smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. Ring elliptical, smooth, without edges, its major diameter three times as great as that of the sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.09, pores 0.006, bars 0.002; inner sphere 0.03; major axis of the elliptical ring 0.28, minor 0.24; thickness of the ring and the axial beams 0.008.

Cortical shell smooth, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. Ring elliptical, smooth, with strong prominent edges, constricted at the poles of the minor axis, its major diameter three times as great as that of the outer sphere.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.08, pores and bars 0.005; inner sphere 0.035; major axis of the ring 0.25, minor axis 0.2; thickness of the ring and the axial beams 0.012.

Subfamily Amphistylida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 452.

Genus 51. Amphisphæra, Haeckel,^[74] 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and two free spines of equal size and similar form.

The genus Amphisphæra differs from its probable ancestral form, Stylosphæra, in the triple spherical lattice-shell. Commonly two of these lie within the central capsule (medullary shell), whilst the third lies outside it (cortical shell). But sometimes this order is inverted, the cortical shell being double, the medullary shell simple; and perhaps these forms may better represent a peculiar genus, Amphisphæridium.

Subgenus 1. Amphisphærantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth or a little rough, without spines or thorns.

Radial proportion of the three concentric spheres = 4 : 2 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, of the same breadth as the bars; twelve to fifteen on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, with strong prominent edges, about as long as the radius of the outer shell, half as broad at the base. (Similar to Stylatractus neptunus, Pl. 17, fig. 6, but differs in the purely spherical form of the three concentric shells and the regular form of the network and of the polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, middle shell 0.08, inner shell 0.04; pores and bars of the cortical shell 0.008; length of the polar spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.04.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 4 : 2 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the diameter of the outer shell, twice as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.06, inner 0.03; pores of the cortical shell 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.024.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 10 : 3 : 2. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; twenty to twenty-five on the half equator. Polar spines cylindro-conical, nearly as long as the axis of the outer shell, twice as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.06, inner 0.04; pores of the cortical shell 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.15 to 0.18, breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Amphisphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface thorny or spiny.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 3 : 1.5 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, spiny, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, of the same breadth as the bars; twenty to twenty-two on the half equator. In each hexagon-corner (between three pores) a bristle-like radial spine. Polar spines cylindrical, with conical apex; one to one and a half times as long as the axis of the outer shell, as broad as three pores at the base. (Resembles closely Xiphosphæra pallas, Pl. 14, fig. 4, but differs in the presence of two medullary shells and the absence of the fine denticulations on the hexagonal crests.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.06, inner 0.04; pores and bars of the cortical shell 0.006; length of the polar spines 0.15, breadth 0.02.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 3 : 2 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, spiny, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; fifteen to eighteen on the half equator; between {144}them short bristle-like radial spines. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the radius of the outer shell, one-third as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.09, inner 0.05; pores of the cortical shell 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.09, basal breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 3. Amphisphærissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface smooth or a little rough, without spines or thorns.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 3 : 2 : 1. Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Outer medullary shell similar, but with pores of half the size, connected with the cortical shell by numerous radial beams; inner medullary shell with very small pores. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the axis of the inner medullary shell, half as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.08, inner 0.04; pores of the cortical shell 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Radial proportion of the three spheres about = 4 : 2 : 1 (or 11 : 7 : 3). Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with very irregular, roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator; often two to four pores confluent. Margin of their outer aperture double. Polar spines conical, double contoured, as long as the radius of the outer shell, one-third as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, middle shell 0.07, inner shell 0.03; pores of the cortical shell 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.06, length of the polar spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 4. Amphisphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface spiny or thorny.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 10 : 3 : 2. Cortical shell thin walled, thorny, with irregular, roundish pores, one to three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the {145}half equator. Irregularly scattered between them short conical thorns. Polar spines conical, about as long as the axis of the outer shell, as broad at the base as the inner shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle shell 0.06, inner shell 0.04; pores of the cortical shell 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.006; length of the polar spines 0.17, basal breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Gulf Stream, near Florida, depth 1500 fathoms, Schaffner.

Genus 52. Amphistylus,^[75] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and two free spines of different size or form.

The genus Amphistylus differs from its ancestral form, Amphisphæra, by the differentiation of both polar spines, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Sphærostylus bears to Stylosphæra.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 4 : 2 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth; its pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; eighteen to twenty on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, very stout, as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell; major spine somewhat longer than the diameter of the cortical shell; minor spine scarcely half as long. (Similar to Stylosphæra clio, Pl. 16, fig. 7, but different in the double medullary shell and the different length of the polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.15, middle 0.08, inner 0.04; pores of the outer shell 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the major spine 0.17, minor 0.07, basal breadth 0.04.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 3 : 2 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, smooth; its pores regular, circular, hexagonally lobed, three times as broad as the bars; twelve to fifteen on the half equator. Major polar spine three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the axis of cortical shell; minor spine pommel-like, edged, scarcely one-third as long. (Similar to Sphærostylus hippocampus, Pl. 16, figs. 10, 11, but differs in the larger size, the double medullary shell, and the straight, not curved, major spine.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.11, middle 0.07, inner 0.035; pores of the outer shell 0.011, bars 0.004; length of the major spine 0.12, of the minor 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 6 : 3 : 1. Cortical shell thick walled, spiny, with irregular, roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. {146}Inner aperture of each pore closed by a thin fenestrated lamella with five to seven small pores. Major polar spine three-sided pyramidal, longer than the diameter of the outer sphere; minor polar spine scarcely as long as its radius, pommel-shaped. (Similar to Xiphatractus glyptodon, Pl. 17, figs. 9, 10, but differs in the spherical, not ellipsoidal, form of the three shells and the size of the polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.12, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; pores and spines of the outer shell 0.01 to 0.02, bars and porules 0.006; length of the major polar spine 0.15, of the minor 0.05, breadth 0.04.

Genus 53. Saturninus,^[76] n. gen.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and two equal opposite spines, connected at the distal end by a circular or elliptical ring.

The genus Saturninus differs from the similar Saturnulus by the triplication of the spherical lattice-shell; the inner shell is enclosed in the central capsule, whilst both the others lie outside it.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 4 : 3 : 1. Inner cortical shell with regular, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars, sixteen to eighteen on the half equator; outer cortical shell connected with the inner by numerous bristle-like radial spines, network very delicate, cobweb-shaped, with irregular polygonal meshes. Ring elliptical, two and a half times as broad as the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the inner sphere 0.03, middle 0.09, outer 0.12; pores and bars of the middle shell 0.004; major axis of the elliptical ring 0.3, minor 0.25; thickness of the ring and the axial beams 0.008.

Subfamily Cromyostylida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 453.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with four concentric spherical lattice-shells (two medullary and two cortical).

Genus 54. Stylocromyum,^[77] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and two free spines of equal size and similar form.

The genus Stylocromyum differs from its probable ancestral form, Amphisphæra, by the duplication of the cortical shell; two opposite radial beams, piercing the wall of the central capsule, connect it with the double medullary shell, and are prolonged outside into two equal spines.

Surface of the shell smooth. Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 8 : 9. Two medullary shells inside the central capsule, two cortical shells outside it. Interval between the second and third shells the greatest. Pores of all the shells regular, circular, two to four times as broad as the bars. Both polar spines equal, conical, about as long as the axis of the outermost sphere, as broad at the base as the innermost.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) inner medullary shell 0.03, (B) outer medullary shell 0.06, (C) inner cortical shell 0.25, (D) outer cortical shell 0.28; length of the polar spines 0.3, basal breadth 0.03.

Surface of the shell smooth. Radial proportion of the four spheres = 2 : 3 : 6 : 8. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Both cortical shells with irregular, roundish, much larger pores, three to six times as broad as the bars. Both polar spines equal or nearly equal, three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the axis of the third shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.04, (B) 0.06, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.16; length of the polar spines 0.11, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 55. Cromyostylus,^[78] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and two free spines of different size or form.

The genus Cromyostylus differs from its ancestral form, Stylocromyum, in the differentiation of the two unequal polar spines.

Surface of the shell smooth. Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 3 : 10 : 12. Both medullary shells with regular, circular, simple pores. Inner cortical shell with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars. From each hexagon-corner arises a {148}bristle-shaped radial spine, which at the distal end gives off three thread-like branches; by communication of these threads (at equal distances from the centre) the delicate outer medullary shell is formed. The polar spines very different; major spine six-sided pyramidal, longer than the diameter of the shell; minor pommel-shaped, shorter than the radius (similar to Xiphatractus glyptodon, Pl. 17, figs. 9, 10, but different in the double spherical cortical shell).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four spheres—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.06, (C) 0.2, (D) 0.24; length of the major spine 0.3, of the minor 0.1.

Subfamily Caryostylida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 454.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with five or more concentric, spherical lattice-shells.

Genus 56. Caryostylus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with five to six or more concentric lattice-shells and two free opposite spines of equal size and similar form.

The genus Caryostylus differs from its ancestral form, Stylocromyum, by the multiplication of the concentric spheres, the number of which amounts to five or six or more. I have only observed one single species of this genus. Some similar forms which in my Prodromus (1881, p. 454) were annexed to it, and disposed in three nearly allied genera (Caryoxiphus, Caryodoras, Caryolonche), have now been proved to belong to other groups, mainly ellipsoidal Druppulida.

Surface of the spherical shell smooth. Radial proportion of the component six concentric shells = 1 : 2 : 7 : 9 : 12 : 15. Both medullary shells connected only by six radial beams, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes. Between second and third shell numerous (twenty regularly disposed?) radial beams. Four cortical shells connected by very numerous (sixty to eighty or more?) short radial beams. Pores of all six shells regular, circular, the size increasing towards the surface, two to three times as broad as the bars. Two opposite polar spines very large, of equal size, three times as long as the shell radius, cylindrical, club-shaped at the thicker distal end. (The whole shell structure is similar to Pl. 15, fig. 2, but the shells are spherical, not ellipsoidal.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the six spheres—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.04, (C) 0.15, (D) 0.18, (E) 0.24, (F) 0.3; length of the spines 0.5.

Subfamily Spongostylida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 455.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with spherical spongy shell (with or without enclosed latticed medullary shells).

Genus 57. Spongolonchis,^[79] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with a solid sphere of spongy framework, and with two opposite free radial spines.

The genus Spongolonchis differs from its probable ancestral form, Styptosphæra, by the development of two opposite radial spines situated in one axis.

Spongy framework of the spherical shell very compact, with small meshes, three to four times as broad as the bars. Surface rough, but not spiny. Two polar spines pyramidal, only as long as the radius of the shell, one-third as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.03.

Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars. Surface spiny. Two polar spines three-sided prismatic, longer than the diameter of the shell (broken off in the observed specimen).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.5; length of the spine 0.6 and more, breadth 0.02.

Genus 58. Spongostylus,^[80] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with spongy spherical cortical shell, enclosing in the centre a simple latticed medullary shell, and with two opposite free radial spines.

The genus Spongostylus may probably be derived from Spongoplegma by development of two opposite radial spines in one axis.

Spongy cortical shell with compact framework, twice as broad as the enclosed medullary shell, the pores of which are regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars. Two polar spines, three times as long as the radius of the shell, in the basal two-thirds cylindrical, in the distal third compressed, two-edged, spear-shaped.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.1, medullary shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.15.

Stylosphæra holosphæra, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 299, Taf. viii. fig. 14.

Spongy cortical shell with rather compact framework, four times as broad as the enclosed medullary shell, the pores of which are irregular, roundish, three to four times as broad as the bars. Two polar spines sword-shaped, two-edged, as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.24, medullary shell 0.06; length of the spines 0.25.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; Philippine Sea, depth 3300 fathoms.

Spongy cortical shell with lax framework, ten to twelve times as broad as the enclosed medullary shell, the pores of which are irregular, roundish, once and a half to twice as broad as the bars. Two polar spines longer than the shell diameter (broken off in the observed specimen), three-sided prismatical, with three straight serrated edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.5, medullary shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.6 or more.

Genus 59. Spongostylidium,^[81] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Stylosphærida with spongy spherical cortical shell, enclosing two concentric spherical latticed medullary shells, and with two opposite, free radial spines.

The genus Spongostylidium differs from Spongostylus by duplication of the latticed medullary shell, and therefore bears the same relation to it as Spongodictyon to Spongoplegma.

Both medullary shells spherical, with small, regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars (outer twice as broad as the inner). Spongy cortical shell enclosing it with dense framework, four times as broad as the outer medullary shell. Two polar spines very large, four times as long as the diameter of the outer shell; as broad as the inner medullary shell, with three dentated, spirally contorted edges. (Very similar to the common Spongosphæra streptacantha and to Hexadoridium streptacanthum, but with only two opposite spines in one axis.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.16, of the outer medullary shell 0.04, inner 0.02; length of the spines 0.7 and more, breadth 0.02.

Family VIII. Staurosphærida, Haeckel (Pl. 15).

Definition.—Sphæroidea with four radial spines on the surface of the spherical shell, forming a regular cross, being opposite in pairs in two axes perpendicular to one another; living solitary (not associated in colonies).

The family Staurosphærida is distinguished from the other Sphæroidea by the possession of four radial spines, which are opposite in pairs in two perpendicularly crossed axes. By these "two main axes" an equatorial plane is determined, which approximates them to the Discoidea. But in the latter the shells as well as the central capsule become more or less flattened, lenticular, or discoidal, whilst in the former they remain spherical. However, some forms of both groups are very similar, and inspection from different sides (and mainly from the margin of the equatorial plane) is required to determine the spherical (not compressed) shell-form of the Staurosphærida. As a rule the species of this family are much rarer, and much less numerous, than those of all the other Sphæroidea.

The most simple Staurosphærida are the Staurostylida, with one single spherical lattice-shell. To this ancestral group all other subfamilies can be opposed as "Staurosphærida concentrica," since their carapace is composed of two or more concentric lattice-shells; two in the Staurolonchida, three in the Stauracontida, four in the Staurocromyida, five or more in the Staurocaryida. In all these four subfamilies the concentric shells are simple (not spongy) fenestrated spheres. In a sixth subfamily, in the Staurodorida, the shell is wholly or partially composed of irregular spongy wickerwork, with or without a medullary shell in the centre.

The Four Radial Spines in all Staurosphærida are normally opposed in pairs in two axes perpendicular one to another, and therefore together form a rectangular cross. But in many species besides this normal form individual abnormalities occur, in which the four spines in the equatorial plane are not quite accurately opposed, so that the four angles between them are not right angles, but more or less unequal. More rarely also their position in the equatorial plane is not accurately retained, so that they are placed in two, three, or four different meridian planes, intersecting at very small variable angles.

In the greater part of Staurosphærida all four radial spines are quite equal, and of the same size and form. But in some genera there takes place a more or less considerable differentiation of the four spines, commonly in pairs, so that the two opposite spines of each pair are equal, but the pairs different (Staurostylus, Staurolonchidium). More rarely also both spines of one pair become unequal, whilst those of the other pair remain equal (Stauroxiphos). Very rarely all four spines assume a different size or form.

Synopsis of the Genera of Staurosphærida.

Subfamily Staurostylida,^[82] Haeckel, Prodromus, 1881, pp. 449, 450.

Genus 60. Staurosphæra,^[83] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with a single lattice-sphere and four crossed equal spines.

The genus Staurosphæra may be regarded as the common ancestral form of this subfamily, since it represents their most simple and primitive form. From the surface of the simple lattice-sphere, enclosing the central capsule, arise four equal, simple, radial spines, opposite in pairs in two diameters, perpendicular one to another. Staurosphæra may be derived phylogenetically either from Cenosphæra by production of the four spines, or from Hexastylus by reduction of two opposite spines.

Subgenus 1. Staurosphærantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores regular, all of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the quadrant. Four crossed radial spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the diameter of the shell, as broad at the base as one pore (very similar to Hexastylus phænaxonius, Pl. 21, fig. 3, but with only four spines).

Shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the quadrant. Four crossed spines six-sided pyramidal, as long as the radius, as broad as one mesh.

Shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, four times as broad as the bars; five to six on the quadrant. Four spines six-sided pyramidal, half as long as the radius, as broad as one mesh.

Shell very thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular, double-edged pores, four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. Four spines conical, as long as the radius, as broad as one mesh.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; twenty to twenty-two on the quadrant. Four spines conical, half as long as the radius, as broad as one mesh.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, Station 325, depth 2650 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; eleven to twelve on the quadrant. Four spines cylindrical, three times as long as the radius, three times as broad as one mesh.

Haliomma with four spines, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. iv. fig. 4.

Shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. Four spines cylindrical, twice as long as the radius, five times as broad as one mesh.

Subgenus 2. Staurosphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores regular, all of nearly equal size and similar form; surface covered with by-spines or accessory thorns.

Shell thin walled, covered with bristle-shaped by-spines, as long as the radius. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight on the quadrant. Four main spines cylindrical, five to ten times as long as the radius, as broad as one mesh.

Shell thick walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the quadrant. From each hexagon-corner arises a bristle-shaped by-spine, half as long as the radius. Four main spines three-sided pyramidal, with spirally contorted edges, as long as the radius (very similar to Hexastylus solonis, Pl. 21, fig. 11, but with only four spines).

Shell thick walled, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the quadrant; surface covered with short conical by-spines. Four main spines conical, twice as long as the radius, twice as broad as one mesh.

Subgenus 3. Staurosphærissa, Haeckel.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, polygonal pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; six to ten on the quadrant. Four main spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the radius.

Staurosphæra crassa, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 27, Taf. v. figs. 52-55.

Shell thick walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, scarcely broader than the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. Four spines three-sided pyramidal, nearly as long as the shell diameter.

? Cenosphæra megapora, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 66, Taf. iii. fig. 1.

? Cenosphæra micropora, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 66, Taf. iii. fig. 2.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with large, irregular, roundish pores, twice to six times as broad as the bars; four to six on the quadrant. Four spines conical, very stout, about as long as the shell diameter, often more or less irregularly disposed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.12 to 0.2, pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.005.

Subgenus 4. Staurosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores irregular, of different size or form; surface covered with by-spines or accessory thorns.

Shell thin walled, with irregular, polygonal pores, three times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the quadrant; surface covered with short bristle-shaped by-spines. Four main spines three-sided pyramidal, twice as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, pores 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.003 to 0.005.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish, polygonally framed pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the quadrant; surface covered with bristle-shaped spines, half as long as the radius. Four main spines pyramidal, as long as the radius.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Station 266, depth 2750 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the quadrant; surface covered with short conical thorns or by-spines. Four main spines conical, as long as the radius.

Genus 61. Staurostylus,^[84] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with one single lattice-sphere and four crossed spines which are arranged in opposite pairs, one pair opposite being larger than the other.

The genus Staurostylus has been developed from Staurosphæra by differentiation of the four crossed spines in pairs; two opposite spines growing much more strongly than the other two.

Shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight on the quadrant. Spines three-sided prismatic, pointed, as broad as {157}one mesh; two opposite larger spines as long as the diameter of the shell, two smaller only as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the major spines 0.16, minor 0.08.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, circular, double-edged pores, three times as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the quadrant. Spines conical, twice as broad at the base as one mesh; two opposite larger spines as long as the radius of the shell, two smaller only one-third as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.24, pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the major spines 0.12, minor 0.04.

Shell thick walled, covered with bristle-shaped by-spines, half as long as the radius. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. From each hexagon-corner arises one short by-spine. Four main spines three-sided pyramidal, as broad at the base as one mesh; two opposite larger spines one and a half times as long as the radius, two smaller two-thirds as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the major spines 0.12, minor 0.08.

Genus 62. Stylostaurus,^[85] 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with one single lattice-sphere and four crossed spines, one of which is much larger than the other three.

The genus Stylostaurus differs from the preceding in the extraordinary development of one of the four spines, which is much longer than the other three; these may be equal or different.

Shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; five to six on the quadrant. Spines three-sided pyramidal, as broad at the base as {158}one mesh; one of the spines longer than the shell diameter, the opposite spine nearly as long as the shell radius; both lateral spines scarcely one-third as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the major spine 0.14, of the opposite 0.04, of both lateral spines 0.012.

Shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the quadrant. Spines three-sided prismatic, as broad at the base as one mesh; one of the spines longer than the shell diameter, and much larger than the other three, which are nearly equal (half as long as the radius).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.015, bars 0.005; length of the major spine 0.25, of the three others 0.005.

Subfamily Staurolonchida,^[86] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 451.

Genus 63. Staurolonche,^[87] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed, equal, simple spines.

The genus Staurolonche may be derived either from Staurosphæra by the duplication of the lattice-sphere, or from Carposphæra by the production of four crossed radial spines, lying in one meridional plane, or from Hexalonche by the reduction of two opposite spines.

Subgenus 1. Staurolonchantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, and of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth.

Haliomma hexagonum, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvb., Bd. iv. fig. 17.

Haliomma hexagonum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 434.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the quadrant. Four spines three-sided pyramidal, somewhat longer than the radius, as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.08.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars; five to six on the quadrant. Four spines three-sided pyramidal, half as long as the radius, as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, inner 0.08; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.04.

Haliomma apertum, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxviii. fig. 5.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell; pores regular, circular, five times as broad as the bars; four to five on the quadrant. Four spines conical, as long as the radius, as broad as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, inner 0.03; cortical pores 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.05.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. Four spines cylindro-conical, longer than the diameter, twice as broad as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.08, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.006, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.12.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. Pores of the medullary shell only one-third as large, also circular. Four spines three-sided prismatic, three times as long as the radius; each of their three thin wings perforated by a single row of small pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, inner 0.033; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.15.

Subgenus 2. Staurolonchella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, and of nearly equal size and similar form; surface covered with by-spines or thorns.

Cortical shell thin walled, four times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with numerous bristle-shaped by-spines, half as long as the radius. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. On each hexagonal frame twelve by-spines (six at the corners, six in the middle between them). Four main spines six-sided pyramidal, about as long as the radius, twice as broad as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.016, bars 0.008; length of the spines 0.1.

Cortical shell thick walled, five times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with short conical by-spines. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; twenty to twenty-two on the quadrant. Four main spines three-sided prismatic, with pyramidal apex, two to three times as long as the radius, twice as broad as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.27, of the inner 0.055; cortical pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with short conical by-spines. Pores regular, circular, of the same breadth as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the quadrant. Four main spines conical, as long as the radius, three times as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; cortical pores and bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.08.

Subgenus 3. Staurolonchissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface smooth.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, polygonal, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Four main spines three-sided prismatic, longer than the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.15.

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish, three to five times as broad as the bars. Four main spines conical, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.05; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.1.

Subgenus 4. Staurolonchura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface covered with by-spines or thorns.

Cortical shell thick walled, five times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with numerous bristle-shaped by-spines (half as long as the radius). Pores irregular, roundish, polygonally framed, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Four main spines pyramidal, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, inner 0.044; cortical pores 0.02 to 0.04, bars 0.012; length of the spines 0.1.

Cortical shell thick-walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with numerous short, conical thorns. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Four main spines conical, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; cortical pores 0.015 to 0.03, bars 0.008; length of the spines 0.04.

Genus 64. Staurancistra,^[88] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed, equal, branched spines.

The genus Staurancistra differs from its ancestral form, Staurolonche, in the ramification of the four crossed spines.

Cortical shell thin walled, with rough, thorny surface, and irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the quadrant. Medullary shell one-third as large, with regular, circular pores; connected with the cortical shell by four crossed radial beams. These are prolonged outside into four strong three-sided prismatic spines, nearly as long as the shell diameter, each having three curved branches below the distal end. (Similar to Hexancistra quadricuspis, Pl. 22, fig. 11, but with only four spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.05; pores of the former 0.06 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.14, breadth 0.012.

Genus 65. Staurolonchidium,^[89] n. gen.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed simple spines which are disposed in two different pairs, two opposite being larger than the other two.

The genus Staurolonchidium has arisen from Staurolonche by the stronger growth of the two opposite spines, the other two remaining stationary; both spines of each pair equal.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. Four radial spines three-sided pyramidal, as broad as one mesh; two opposite larger spines three times as long as the two smaller, which are about equal to the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.16, medullary shell 0.05; pores of the former 0.012, bars 0.006; length of the major spines 0.24, minor 0.08.

Haliomma perspicuum, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxix. fig. 1.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with small conical by-spines, five times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, eight times as broad as the bars; three to four on the quadrant. Four radial spines three-sided pyramidal, scarcely one-third as broad as one mesh; two opposite larger spines four times as long as the two smaller, which are about equal to half the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.12, medullary shell 0.025; pores of the former 0.03, bars 0.004; length of the major spines 0.12, minor 0.03.

Genus 66. Stauroxiphos,^[90] n. gen.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed simple spines, one of which is much larger than the other three.

The genus Stauroxiphos differs from its ancestral form, Staurolonche, in the greater development of one single spine, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Stylostaurus bears to Staurosphæra.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the outer shell regular, circular, regularly six-lobed on the outer opening, four times as broad as the bars; about six on the quadrant. Pores of the inner shell only one-third as large, simple, circular. Three of the four radial spines of nearly equal size, pommel-shaped, with three prominent, dentated wings, somewhat shorter than the shell radius and about half as broad as long; the fourth spine much larger, sword-like, about three times as long as the shell radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, of the inner 0.04; pores of the former 0.01, bars 0.0025; pores of the latter 0.003, bars 0.001; length of the major spine 0.18, of the three minor 0.04.

Subfamily Stauracontida,^[91] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 52.

Genus 67. Stauracontium,^[92] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed, equal, simple spines.

The genus Stauracontium differs from its probable ancestral form, Staurolonche, in the duplication of the cortical shell.

Subgenus 1. Stauracontarium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, all of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the quadrant. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 9. Connecting radial beams between them six (opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes), but only four of them are prolonged outside into four stout three-sided prismatic spines, lying in one equatorial plane, as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, middle 0.07, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.2.

Haliomma tetracanthum, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 295, Taf. x. figs. 7, 8.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, three times as broad as the bars; five to six on the quadrant. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 12. Radial spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.03, inner 0.01; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1.

Actinomma tetracanthum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr. 26, p. 91, Taf. ii. fig. 6.

Cortical shell thin walled, rough, with regular, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars; six to seven on the quadrant. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2.5 : 8. Radial spines three-sided pyramidal, nearly as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, middle 0.03, inner 0.013; cortical pores and bars 0.006; length of the spines 0.08.

Subgenus 2. Stauracontellium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, and of nearly equal size and similar form; surface covered with numerous small thorns or by-spines.

Actinomma daturæforme, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr. 26, p. 93, Taf. ii. fig. 13.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with short thorns, and with regular, hexagonal pores, five times as broad as the bars; six to seven on the quadrant. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 3.5. Radial spines six-sided pyramidal, about half as long as the radius and one-fourth as broad.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.13, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.017, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with very numerous, short, conical spines, and with regular, circular pores, five times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the quadrant. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 2 : 3 : 9. Radial main spines three-sided prismatic, as long as the radius or longer.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.275, middle 0.09, inner 0.06; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.15.

Subgenus 3. Stauracontidium, Haeckel.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth. Pores irregular, roundish, two to four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 8. Radial spines conical, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1.

Subgenus 4. Stauracontonium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores irregular, of different size or form; surface covered with thorns or by-spines.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with thin bristle-shaped by-spines, half as long as the radius. Pores irregular, polygonal, three to five times as broad as the bars. Proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6. Radial main spines pyramidal, nearly as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.12.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with short conical papillæ or by-spines. Pores irregular, roundish, two to four times as broad as the bars. Proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 12. Radial main spines conical, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.24, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.007 to 0.015, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.12.

Subfamily Staurocromyida,^[93] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 453.

Genus 68. Staurocromyum,^[94] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed, equal, simple spines.

The genus Staurocromyum has arisen probably from Stauracontium by duplication of the cortical shell, two concentric shells lying within, two others outside the central capsule.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 8 : 10. Both medullary shells with very small, regular, circular pores. Inner cortical shell with regular, circular, hexagonally-framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; from each hexagon-corner arises a small by-spine, and these, connected by tangential branches at equal distances from the centre, form the delicate outer cortical shell, with spiny surface. Four main spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the shell radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.25, (B) 0.2, (C) 0.05, (D) 0.025; length of the spines 0.12.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 3 : 9 : 12. Both medullary shells with small, regular, circular pores. Both cortical shells with irregular, roundish pores. Surface covered with short, conical by-spines. Four main spines cylindro-conical, somewhat longer than the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.24, (B) 0.18, (C) 0.06, (D) 0.02.

Genus 69. Cromyostaurus,^[95] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed, equal, branched spines.

The genus Cromyostaurus differs from the preceding Staurocromyum, its ancestral form, in the ramification of the four crossed spines.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 3 : 11 : 13. Both medullary shells with small, regular, circular pores; inner cortical shell with regular, hexagonal pores; from the hexagon-corners arise small, radial by-spines, which at equal distances from the centre send out forked tangential branches, three from each spine, and by communication of these form the outer, delicate, cortical shell. Four main spines nearly as long as the shell diameter, three-sided prismatic, with four to six verticils of ramified lateral branches, each verticil composed of three forked branches, which ramify again.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.26, (B) 0.22, (C) 0.06, (D) 0.02; length of the spines 0.24.

Subfamily Staurocaryida,^[96] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 454.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with five or more concentric spherical lattice-shells.

Genus 70. Staurocaryum,^[97] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with five or more concentric lattice-spheres and four crossed, equal spines.

The genus Staurocaryum has arisen from the preceding Staurocromyum by the further multiplication of the concentric spheres; in the only observed form there are six, at nearly equal distances apart.

Shell composed of six concentric latticed spheres, at nearly equal distances apart, and with somewhat regular, circular pores, the size of which gradually increases from the first to the sixth shell. The surface of the outermost shell is densely covered with numerous arborescent by-spines, which bifurcate from three to four times, and are three-sided pyramidal at the base, and twice as long as the distance between each two shells. The six shells are connected only by four crossed, conical, radial beams, which increase in diameter from the centre, and are prolonged outside into very stout cylindrical, radial spines, irregularly covered with small thorns and forked ramules, and nearly as long as the shell diameter. Only a single specimen was observed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole shell 0.22; distance between each two shells 0.02; length of the by-spines 0.05, of the main spines 0.2.

Subfamily Staurodorida,^[98] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 455.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with spongy, spherical shell (with or without enclosed concentric lattice-shells).

Genus 71. Staurodoras,^[99] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Staurosphærida with solid, spongy, spherical shell and four crossed simple spines.

The genus Staurodoras may be developed from Styptosphæra by the production of four crossed spines on the simple, spongy, spherical shell, which is composed of looser or denser irregular wicker-work, without enclosed medullary shell.

Four crossed spines, two to three times as long as the diameter of the spongy sphere, three-sided prismatic, with three dentated and spirally contorted edges. (Form of Spongosphæra streptacantha, but without medullary shell and with four equal spines, crossed regularly at right angles.)

Staurodoras mojsisovicsi, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 28, Taf. v. fig. 56.

Four crossed spines, one and a half times as long as the diameter of the spongy sphere, three-sided pyramidal, with three smooth edges. (What Dunikowski describes as "inner canals" of the spines are their edges.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.14; length of the spines 0.18 to 0.2. basal breadth 0.04.

Staurodoras liassica, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 28, Taf. v. fig. 57.

Four crossed spines, shorter than the diameter of the spongy sphere, conical or pyramidal (?).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.19; length of the spine 0.13, basal breadth 0.045.

Staurodoras wandae, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 28, Taf. v. fig. 58.

Four crossed spines shorter than the radius of the spongy sphere, conical. (May be the young form of the preceding species.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.14; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.05.

Family IX. Cubosphærida, Haeckel (Pls. 21-25).

Definition.—Sphæroidea with six radial spines on the surface of the spherical shell, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes, perpendicular one to another; living solitary (not associated in colonies).

The family Cubosphærida is distinguished from the other Sphæroidea by the possession of six radial spines, which are opposite in pairs in three different axes, one perpendicular to the other two. These three axes are the typical "dimensive axes," which are more or less differentiated in the Larcoidea. But in these latter the shell itself and the enclosed central capsule become affected by the unequal growth in the three axes, whilst in the former the capsule constantly, and commonly also the shell, remains spherical. Sometimes the shell assumes the form of a regular octahedron, from the six corners of which arise the six radial spines, indicating its three axes.

The most simple Cubosphærida are the Hexastylida, with one single, spherical lattice-shell. To this ancestral group all other subfamilies can be opposed as "Cubosphærida concentrica," as their carapace is composed of two or more concentric lattice-shells—two in the Hexalonchida, three in the Hexacontida, four in the Hexacromyida, five or more in the Hexacaryida. In all these four subfamilies the concentric shells are simple (not spongy), fenestrated spheres. In a sixth subfamily, in the Hexadorida, the shell is wholly or partially composed of irregular, spongy wicker-work or loose reticulations, with or without a medullary shell in the centre.

The Six Radial Spines of the Cubosphærida are normally opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes, each of which is perpendicular to the other two. But in many species besides this normal form occur individual abnormalities, in which the six spines are not quite accurately opposed, but more or less divergent; and often also the three dimensive planes (determined each by two axes) are not quite regular, but more or less uneven. More rarely the six spines appear disposed in quite an irregular manner.

In the greater part of the Cubosphærida all six spines are quite equal, of the same size and form. But in some genera a more or less considerable differentiation takes place, so {170}that two pairs or all three pairs of spines become different; very rarely, also both spines of one pair become unequal (probably only an individual abnormality). Those variations correspond to the differences between the crystalline systems. The common Cubosphærida, with three equal spine-pairs, correspond to the regular or cubic system, with three equal axes. The rarer forms (Hexastylarium, Hexaloncharium, Hexacontarium) exhibit two equal pairs and one different pair; they correspond to the quadratic system, with three perpendicular axes, two of which are equal, the third unequal. Still more rare are those forms (Hexastylidium, Hexalonchidium), in which all three pairs of spines are different, corresponding to the three unequal axes of the rhombic crystalline system.

Synopsis of the Genera of Cubosphærida.

Subfamily Hexastylida,^[100] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 450.

Genus 72. Hexastylus,^[101] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere and six simple spines of equal size.

The genus Hexalonche is the most simple form of all Cubosphærida, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form of this family. It can be derived phylogenetically from Cenosphæra, by development of six radial spines on the surface of the simple spherical lattice-shell. These six simple spines are of equal size and opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes, corresponding to the three equal axes of a cubic crystal.

Subgenus 1. Hexastylanthus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores regular or subregular, of nearly equal size and form; surface of the cortical shell smooth, without radial by-spines (other than the six main spines).

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Pores subregular, hexagonal, five to six times as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, as long as the radius of the shell, as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13, pores 0.008 to 0.01, bars 0.0015; length of the spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.008 to 0.012.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Pores regular, hexagonal, eight to ten times as broad as the bars; six to seven on the radius. Six spines bristle-shaped, longer than the diameter of the shell. (Lattice-work and spines similar to those of Heliosphæra actinota, Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. ix. fig. 3.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.016, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.002.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Pores subregular, circular, hexagonally framed, somewhat funnel-shaped, of the same breadth as the bars; eight to nine on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, with prominent edges, as long as the radius, three to four times as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, pores and bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, with smooth surface. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, deep funnel-shaped, of the same breadth as the bars; six to seven on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, as long as the diameter, twice as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores and bars 0.01; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, with smooth surface. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, of the same breadth as the bars; five to six on the radius. Six spines triangular prismatic, extremely elongated, ten to twenty times as long as the diameter of the shell, twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores and bars 0.008; length of the spines 1.0 to 1.5, breadth 0.015.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; five to six on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, scarcely as long as the radius, at the base half as broad as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05, pores 0.004, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.01.

? Haliphormis hexacantha, Ehrenberg, 1872, L. N. 24, Taf. x. fig. 6.

Shell thin walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the radius. Six spines conical, as long as the radius, at the base as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.012.

Shell thin walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars; six to seven on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, as long as the radius, as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.02, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the radius. Six spines six-sided pyramidal, half as long as the radius, three times as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.03.

Shell thick walled, smooth. Pores regular, circular, double-edged, four times as broad as the bars; six to seven on the radius. Six spines conical, as long as the radius, twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.025.

Subgenus 2. Hexastylettus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores regular or subregular, of nearly equal size and form; surface of the spherical shell spiny, covered with numerous conical or bristle-shaped radial by-spines.

Shell thick walled, covered with numerous bristle-shaped radial spines (one-third to one-half as long as the six main spines, arising from the lattice-knots). Pores regular, circular, enclosed by prominent, hexagonal frames, four to six times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the radius. {174}Six main spines triangular pyramidal, with spirally contorted prominent edges, as long as the radius, as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13, pores 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.06 to 0.8, basal breadth 0.01.

Shell thick walled, covered with numerous short, conical spines (about as large as one pore). Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the radius. Six main spines triangular pyramidal, with prominent, spirally-twisted edges, as long as the diameter of the shell, and twice as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.17, pores 0.015, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.16, breadth 0.03.

Acanthosphæra setosa, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 285, Taf. ix. fig. 11.

Shell thin walled, covered with numerous short, bristle-shaped spines (not larger than one pore). Pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars; thirteen to sixteen on the radius. Six main spines three-sided pyramidal, scarcely one-third as long as the radius. (In the figure of Ehrenberg, loc. cit., only four spines are in regular, crossed disposition, two others opposite in oblique direction; this is either an individual abnormality, or an error of drawing; the same species occurs with six spines exactly regularly disposed in the three dimensive axes.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15; pores 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.03, basal breadth 0.005.

Shell thin walled, covered with numerous bristle-shaped spines (as long as the radius). Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the radius. Six main spines triangular pyramidal, with straight edges, as long as the diameter of the shell, as broad as two pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.02, bars 0.01; length of the spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.05.

Shell thick walled, covered with numerous short, conical spines (twice as large as one pore). Pores regular, circular, of the same breadth as the bars; twelve to thirteen on the radius. Six main spines conical, as long as the radius, three times as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.24, pores and bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.016.

Subgenus 3. Hexastylissus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores irregular, of unequal size or form; surface of the spherical shell smooth, without radial by-spines (other than the six main spines).

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Pores irregular, polygonal, three to six times as broad as the bars; four to six on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, as long as the diameter of the shell, as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05, pores 0.004 to 0.008, bars 0.0015; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.006.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Pores irregular, polygonal, four to eight times as broad as the bars; eleven to thirteen on the radius. Six spines hexagonal pyramidal, as long as the radius, about three times as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13, pores 0.006 to 0.009, bars 0.0012; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.025.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface. Pores irregular, roundish, two to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, half as long as the radius, twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.025.

Shell thick walled, smooth. Pores irregular, roundish, two to three times as broad as the bars; three to four on the radius. Six spines triangular prismatical, two to three times as long as the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores 0.008 to 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.01.

Shell thick walled, rough. Pores irregular, roundish, somewhat funnel-shaped double-edged, two to three times as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the radius. Six spines three-sided pyramidal, somewhat longer than the radius, three times as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.007 to 0.01, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.025.

Shell thick walled, rough. Pores irregular, roundish, scarcely broader than the bars; fifteen to sixteen on the radius. Six spines conical, as long as the radius, five to seven times as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.18, pores and bars 0.004 to 0.006; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 4. Hexastylurus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores irregular, of unequal size or form; surface of the spherical shell spiny, covered with numerous conical or bristle-shaped by-spines.

Shell thin walled, spiny; short spines conical, smaller than the pore-breadth. Pores irregular, polygonal, five to seven times as broad as the bars; four to six on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, longer than the radius, about as broad as one smaller pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.09, pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.01.

Shell thin walled, densely covered with bristle-shaped, radial spines, half as long as the six main spines. Pores irregular, polygonal, three to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, as long as the radius, twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, pores 0.005 to 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.01.

Shell thick walled, covered with bristle-shaped, radial spines, half as long as the radius. Pores irregular, roundish, two to three times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the radius. Six spines triangular prismatic, in the distal half spirally twisted like a cork-screw (fig. 12); longer than the diameter of the shell, about as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.006 to 0.008, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.15, breadth 0.015.

Shell thick walled, covered with short conical spines. Pores irregular, roundish, two to three times as broad as the bars; five to six on the radius. Six spines triangular prismatic, with three thin, spirally contorted edges, two to three times as long as the diameter of the shell, about as broad as one large pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.006; length of the spines 0.3 to 0.5, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 73. Hexastylarium,^[102] n. gen.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere and six simple spines of different sizes; one opposite pair larger than the other two.

The genus Hexastylarium differs from its probable ancestral form, Hexastylus, by the unequal growth of the six simple spines; two opposite spines of one pair being more strongly developed than the four others, which are equal. They correspond therefore to the three axes of a quadratic crystal.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, hexagonal pores, three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Six spines three-sided pyramidal, at the base as broad as one pore. Two opposite major spines longer than the shell diameter; four others scarcely as long as {178}the radius. (Similar to Hexastylus phænaxonius, Pl. 21, fig. 3, but differing in the unequal length of the spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.12, bars 0.004; length of the two major spines 0.2, of the four minor 0.07.

Shell very delicate, with smooth surface, and irregular, polygonal pores, separated by very thin bars. The form of the shell is not, as commonly, a sphere, but a geometrical square octahedron, one axis (with two opposite major spines) being nearly twice as long as the other two dimensive axes; four spines, opposite by pairs in the latter, are only half as long. The eight sides of the octahedral shell are even, equilateral-triangular. Spines angular, thin.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell in the major axis 0.18, in the minor 0.1; length of the major spines 0.24, minor 0.12.

Shell thick walled, with spiny surface, and with irregular, roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Two opposite major spines, three to four times as long as the shell diameter, whilst the four other spines are very short, scarcely as long as the radius. All six spines at the base three-sided pyramidal, the two longer being cylindrical.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1; length of the major spines 0.3 to 0.4, of the minor 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 74. Hexastylidium,^[103] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere and six simple spines in pairs different; the two opposite spines of each pair equal, the three pairs unequal.

The genus Hexastylidium differs from its probable ancestral form, Hexastylus, by the unequal growth of the six simple spines; the two spines of each pair reaching the same dimensions, whilst the three pairs are different. They correspond therefore to the three axes of a rhombic crystal.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, polygonal pores and very thin bars. Its form is not, as commonly, a sphere, but a rhombic octahedron. The radial proportion of the three unequal {179}dimensive axes = 1 : 2 : 4. The radial proportion of the three pairs of spines = 1 : 3 : 8. Spines thin cylindrical, at the base angular.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the major shell axis 0.2, middle 0.1, minor 0.05; length of the major spines 0.3, middle 0.12, minor 0.04.

Shell thick walled, spherical, thorny, with irregular, roundish pores, three to five times as broad as the bars; six spines very stout, prismatic (as broad as one large pore), with three ring-like, spirally convoluted edges. Two opposite major spines of extraordinary length, ten to twelve times as long as the shell diameter, the two middle opposite spines being about as long as the latter, the two minor scarcely one-third as long. (Similar to Hexastylus spiralis, Pl. 21, fig. 7, but distinguished by the very unequal length of the spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12; length of the major spines 1 to 1.5 mm., middle 0.15, minor 0.04.

Subfamily Hexalonchida,^[104] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 451.

Genus 75. Hexalonche,^[105] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and six simple spines of equal size.

The genus Hexalonche is the most simple form, and probably the common ancestral form, of all Hexalonchida, or those Cubosphærida which possess two concentric latticed spheres, connected by six radial beams. Commonly one shell is intracapsular (medullary shell) and the other extracapsular (cortical shell); but sometimes also both shells are extracapsular, and these forms may perhaps be better separated as a peculiar genus Hexadilemma. In Hexalonche all six simple spines are of equal size, and opposite by pairs in three equal dimensive axes, corresponding to the three equal axes of a tesseral crystal. It can be derived from Hexastylus by duplication of the lattice-shell.

Subgenus 1. Hexalonchara, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular or subregular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth, without radial by-spines (other than the six main spines).

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth; its pores regular, hexagonal, six to eight times as broad as the bars; eight to ten to twelve on the radius. Medullary shell one-third as broad, with regular, hexagonal pores of half size. Six spines triangular pyramidal, as long as the radius of the shell, at the base as broad as one pore. (Differs from Hexastylus phænaxonius, Pl. 21, fig. 3, only in the medullary shell and the six inner radial beams, connecting it with the cortical shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.015 to 0.02; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, two and a half time as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the latter (fig. 3a) regular circular; eight to ten on the half meridian, about as broad as the bars between them. Pores of the outer shell regular, hexagonal, remarkable for a very peculiar form and arrangement. In the transverse section of the shell (fig. 3b) they appear as narrow, hexagonal prismatic canals, twice as high as broad, and four to five times as broad as the thin elevated bars between them. Every seven meshes form together a larger, regular hexagon (six pores surrounding one central pore). The periphery of these larger, rosette-like hexagons projects more strongly from the surface than the walls between the smaller hexagons. On the half meridian of the shell may be counted six to seven larger and eighteen to twenty smaller hexagons. The six radial beams between the two shells are thin, three-sided prismatic, not broader than the bars of the network, the prominent prolongations of which form six very strong spines of peculiar club-like shape (fig. 3), as long as the radius of the outer shell. The three wings of the club are lower in the inner, higher in the outer half; the broadest part of the spine (at the base and in the outer third) is as broad as a hexagonal rosette (equal to three meshes of the outer shell); its outer apex is pyramidal.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.13, pores 0.008 to 0.01, bars 0.02; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.07, distal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the former regular circular, hexagonally framed, deep funnel-shaped, of the same breadth as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Six spines triangular-pyramidal, as long as the radius, at the base twice as broad as one pore. (Differs from the similar Hexastylus favosus mainly in the possession of a medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, pores and bars 0.012; inner shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.025.

Habitat.—Equatorial Atlantic, Station 348, depth 2450 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Cortical shell a regular octahedron, thin walled, with twelve more or less rounded edges (between the bases of the spines), and with smooth surface, three times as broad as the spherical medullary shell. Pores of the former regular circular (three times as large as those of the latter), four times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Six spines three-sided prismatic, with thickened base and cuspidated end, somewhat longer than the radius, and once to twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, pores 0.01, bars 0.0025; inner shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.08, bars 0.01.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of both spheres regular circular, three to four times as broad as the bars; those of the thick walled outer shell six to seven on the radius, twice as large as those of the thin walled inner shell; six radial beams between the two spheres, very thin, cylindrical; six spines short, conical, scarcely as long as the radius of the outer shell, at the base twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12 to 0.14, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the spines 0.04 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, not much larger than the medullary shell (= 4 : 3). Pores of both spheres regular circular, nearly of the same size, three times as broad as the bars between them; seven to nine on the radius. Six spines three-sided prismatic, inside and outside of the exterior shell of equal thickness, twice as broad as one pore, longer than the diameter of the outer shell, and in a singular manner curved like an ox horn; the three edges of each horn somewhat spirally twisted.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.12; length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the former regular circular, double-edged, six to eight times as broad as the thin bars, five to six on the radius. Six spines triangular pyramidal, as broad as one pore and only twice as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14, pores 0.02, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.045; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the outer shell regular circular, four times as broad as the bars; thirteen to fifteen on the radius. Six spines conical, scarcely half as long as the radius, at the base as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2 to 0.32, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.003 to 0.005; inner shell 0.06 to 0.08; length of the spines 0.06, breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Hexalonchetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular or subregular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface covered with numerous conical or bristle-shaped radial by-spines.

Cortical shell thin walled, armed with very numerous bristle-shaped, radial by-spines, a quarter to a half as long as the six main spines. Pores regular hexagonal, twelve to fourteen on the radius, with very thin bars, prolonged on the outer as well as the inner surface into a short truncated conical tube (Pl. 25, fig. 2b). Medullary shell octahedral, with irregular polygonal meshes and very thin bars between them (fig. 2a), connected with the outer (six to eight times larger) shell by six very thin radial beams. These are prolonged outside into six strong pyramidal spines, nearly as long as the diameter of the outer shell, with sharp straight edges, at the base twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, pores 0.01, bars 0.001; inner shell 0.02; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with short conical spines (smaller than the pores), three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the outer shell subregular hexagonal, four times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Inner shell with regular hexagonal pores of half the size, connected with the outer by six strong, three-sided prismatic beams, which are prolonged outside into six very stout pyramidal spines, with three prominent edges, longer than the radius and twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, pores 0.01, bars 0.0025; inner shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, nearly octahedral, with eight hemispherical or bosom-shaped vaultings, corresponding to the eight faces of a regular octahedron, the three axes of which are indicated by the six spines. Surface covered with short bristle-shaped spines. Pores regular hexagonal, ten to fifteen times as broad as the thin bars; seven to nine on the radius. Medullary shell (fig. 6a) spherical, with regular circular pores, one-third as broad as the cortical shell, and connected with it by six strong triangular radial beams, which are prolonged outside into pyramidal spines, one-third as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, pores 0.03, bars 0.002; inner shell 0.06; length of the spines 0.06, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, four times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with short conical spines arising from the nodal points of elevated crests which form regular hexagonal frames around the funnel-shaped circular pores. These are two to three times as broad as the crested bars; eight to ten on the radius. Six spines three-sided pyramidal, with strong prominent edges, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16 to 0.2, pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.003 to 0.005; inner shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the spines 0.08 to 0.12, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, four times as broad as the medullary shell, with spiny surface. Pores regular circular, twice as broad as the bars, five to seven on the radius, funnel-shaped, separated by hexagonal frames, the sharp crests of which are serrated; at the nodal-points longer bristle-shaped by-spines. Six main spines triangular prismatic, longer than the diameter of the shell, twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, twice as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with short conical by-spines. Pores regular circular, twice as broad as the bars; five to six on the radius. Circular pores of the medullary shell one-third as broad. Radial main spines conical, nearly as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.015.

Cortical shell thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with short conical spines. Pores regular circular, four to six times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Radial spines conical, about as long as the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, pores 0.08, bars 0.0015; inner shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, five times as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with numerous short conical spines. Pores regular circular, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Radial spines triangular pyramidal, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.045; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 3. Hexalonchilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of unequal size or form; surface smooth, without radial by-spines (other than the six main spines).

Haliomma hexacanthum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 35, Taf. iv. fig. 5.

Haliomma hexacanthum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 430.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular polygonal pores (commonly hexagonal or pentagonal), two to three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Medullary shell one quarter as broad, connected with the former by six thin radial beams which are prolonged outside into six triangular pyramidal spines (not quadrangular, as Müller describes), longer than the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.15, basal breadth 0.015.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with very peculiar geometrical formation of its network, the pores of which are of very different size and form, but highly regular disposition. Each of the six {185}triangular spines is surrounded at the base by three small roundish pores (between the three wings of its base), and further by a coronal of six very large pores, three of which are pentagonal, and the other three (alternating) heptagonal. The six basal coronals are separated by irregular smaller pores. Medullary shell thin walled, with regular hexagonal pores (three on the radius) and thin bars, connected with the outer shell by six thin triangular prismatic radial beams, which are prolonged outside into short pyramidal spines (half as long as the radius).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, thirty-six larger pores of the coronals 0.03 to 0.04, smaller pores between them 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.05 (with pores of 0.008); length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular roundish, twice to eight times as broad as the bars, of very different size; usually in the space between every three spines are three or six larger pores, separated by numerous smaller pores (often the disposition of the larger pores is much more regular than in the figured specimen). Medullary shell with regular circular pores, connected with the outer by six very thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into six short triangular pyramidal spines about as long and broad as the half radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, pores 0.008 to 0.03, bars 0.004; inner shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular polygonal, of very variable size and form, twice to six times as broad as the bars; six to ten on the radius. Medullary shell with regular hexagonal pores, connected with the outer by six very thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into six triangular pyramidal spines, nearly as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, pores 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.003; inner shell 0.025; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular roundish, of very variable size and form, twice to six times as broad as the bars, ten to fifteen on the radius. Six spines cylindro-conical, longer than the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, pores 0.004 to 0.012, bars 0.002; inner shell 0.05; length of the spine 0.3, basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 4. Hexalonchusa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface covered with numerous conical or bristle-shaped, radial by-spines.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with short conical spines, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular polygonal, or more roundish, twice to six times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Inner shell of the same structure, pores three times smaller, connected with the outer by six very thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into six strong, triangular pyramidal spines, as long as the radius. (Similar to Hexalonche anaximandri, Pl. 22, fig. 5, but different in the irregular network and the shorter by-spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.0025; inner shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.06, breadth 0.02.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel, John Murray; Iceland, Krabbe, surface.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with numerous short, bristle-shaped spines. Pores of very different size and form, and of a peculiar, subregular disposition, similar to those of Hexalonche geometrica (though in this case more regular). Each of the six triangular main spines (which reach nearly the length of the radius) is surrounded at the base by three small roundish pores, and these are further supplemented by a coronal of six very large polygonal pores; the six coronals are separated by irregular rows of smaller pores. Inner shell equal to one-third of the outer. Six main spines pyramidal, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, larger pores 0.03 to 0.04, smaller pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.05 to 0.01; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.03.

Haliomma sexaculeatum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 87, Taf. i. fig. 8.

Cortical shell thick walled, twice as broad as the medullary shell, and covered with short conical spines. Pores irregular polygonal (mostly hexagonal), twice to three times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Six spines triangular-pyramidal (not quadrangular), somewhat longer than the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, pores 0.06 to 0.08, bars 0.03; inner shell 0.06; length of the spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.015.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with bunches of small spines, each bunch at the nodule point between every three pores composed of four to eight conical spinules. Pores irregular roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; four to six on the radius. Inner shell equal to one-third of the outer, connected with it by six thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into six strong triangular spines about as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, pores 0.015 to 0.03, bars 0.08; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with numerous short conical spines, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular circular, twice to eight times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Six spines conical or more cylindrical, as long as the diameter of the shell or longer.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16 to 0.24, pores 0.01 to 0.04, bars 0.005; inner shell 0.04 to 0.06; length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with numerous bristle-shaped spines, half as long as the six main spines. Pores irregular roundish, twice to five times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Inner shell equal to one-fifth of the outer. Six spines conical, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.25, pores 0.008 to 0.02, bars 0.004; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with numerous bristle-shaped spines, half as long as the six main spines. Pores irregular roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Medullary shell with very small circular pores, one-fourth of the cortical shell, connected with it by six thin prismatic radial beams, which are prolonged outside into six strong, short, three-sided pyramidal, cuspidated spines, only half as long as the radius of the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, pores 0.015 to 0.03, bars 0.008; inner shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 76. Hexancistra,^[106] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and six branched spines of equal size.

The genus Hexancistra differs from its ancestral form, Hexalonche, in the ramification of the six radial spines. These are very different in the two subgenera; in Hexancora each spine bears only three simple lateral branches, while in Hexapitys there are three rows of verticillate lateral branches on each spine.

Subgenus 1. Hexancora, Haeckel.

Definition.—Each radial spine with three simple lateral branches only (one branch from each edge of the triangular spine).

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with short conical by-spines, three times as broad as the medullary shell; its pores regular circular, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Pores of the medullary shell half as large, also regular circular. The two shells connected by six thin prismatic radial beams, which are prolonged outside into six very stout main spines, three-sided prismatic, as long as the shell diameter, with three thin wing-like edges. Each edge at the distal end prolonged into a strong curved lateral branch.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.13, inner 0.4; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.003; medullary pores 0.005, bars 0.003; length of the six spines 0.13, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, twice as broad as the medullary shell; its pores regular circular, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Six radial spines, three-sided prismatic, as long as the shell radius, with three recurved lateral branches at the distal end like the three teeth of an anchor.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, inner 0.05; cortical pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the six spines 0.05, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, thorny, twice to three times as broad as the medullary shell; the two shells connected by six strong triangular beams. Inner shell spherical, with very small, regular, circular {189}pores; ten to twelve on the half meridian. Bars as broad as the pores. Outer shell regularly octahedral, with eight triangular perfectly regular even faces, separated by eight prominent edges; the meshes circular, regular, about twelve to fourteen on the half meridian, two to three times as broad as the bars between them. Six strong radial spines, about as long as the diameter of the outer shell, three-sided prismatic, cuspidate; their three edges prominent, serrate, spirally twisted. Each spine bears about its middle three strong flattened lateral branches, nearly perpendicular to it, not serrated, and slightly curved.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.13, inner 0.045; pores of the former 0.01, of the latter 0.004; length of the spine 0.12, breadth 0.014.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with short bristle-shaped by-spines, three and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores of the latter regular circular, small; pores of the former three to six times as large, very irregular, roundish, double-edged. Six radial spines, three-sided prismatic, about as long as the shell diameter, with three wing-like, slightly twisted edges, which are prolonged towards the distal end into three curved horn-shaped branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.17, inner 0.05; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.005; medullary pores 0.003, bars 0.001; length of the spines 0.15, breadth 0.013.

Subgenus 2. Hexapitys, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Each radial spine with three rows of verticillate lateral branches (a row arising from each edge of the spine).

Hexapitys mirabilis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Cortical shell very thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Inner shell spherical, with very delicate, subregular hexagonal meshes; seven to eight on the half diameter. Outer shell octahedral, with irregular polygonal meshes of very different size; on the surface numerous thin accessory radial spines, equal in length to its radius. Six main spines, extremely long and stout, many times longer than the diameter of the outer shell, nearly as broad as the radius of the inner shell, three-sided prismatic, with sharp, prominent, spirally twisted edges; on every edge a great number of thin lateral branches, arranged perpendicularly to it, as long as the diameter of the outer shell, and pinnated by ten to twenty pairs of delicate secondary spinules, biserial and perpendicular to the primary branches. (In the figured specimen the spherical central capsule, between both shells, was well preserved; its nucleus nearly filled the medullary shell. The thick jelly-veil around it was radially striped and octahedral.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.13, of the inner 0.05; length of the spines 0.5 to 0.8 or more, breadth 0.02.

Genus 77. Hexaloncharium,^[107] n. gen.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and six simple spines of different sizes; one opposite pair larger than the two others.

The genus Hexaloncharium exhibits the same relation to its ancestral form, Hexalonche, that Hexastylarium bears to Hexastylus. Two opposite spines of one pair are larger than the four others, and correspond to the three axes of a quadratic crystal.

Cortical shell smooth, three to four times as broad as the spherical medullary shell, each having regular circular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Form of the outer shell not a sphere, but a regular octahedron, with eight congruent, equilateral triangular even faces. Two opposite spines twice as long as the shell diameter, whilst the four others are scarcely equal to it. Basal breadth of all six the same (three times as large as one pore); form, three-sided prismatic, with cuspidate distal end. (Similar to Hexalonche octahedra, Pl. 22, fig. 8, but distinct in the unequal length of the spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, inner 0.045; length of the major spine 0.3, minor 0.12, basal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell spherical, covered with short conical by-spines, twice as broad as the medullary shell; both with regular circular pores three to four times as broad as the bars. Two major spines cylindrical, with conical apex, three times as long as the four others, which are conical and about as long as the shell radius; basal breadth of all six the same (equal to one pore). Similar to Hexalonche anaximenis (Pl. 25, fig. 5), but distinct in the enormous prolongation of two opposite spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.06; length of the two major spines 0.2, of the four minor 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell spherical, three times as broad as the medullary shell, and densely covered with oblique bristle-shaped by-spines. Pores irregular roundish. Two opposite major spines three-sided prismatic, longer than the shell diameter; four minor spines pyramidal, scarcely half as long as the shell radius. (Somewhat similar to Hexalonche hystricina, but distinct in the prolongation of two major spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; length of the two major spines 0.2, four minor 0.03, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 78. Hexalonchidium,^[108] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with two concentric lattice-spheres and six simple spines of different sizes in pairs; the two opposite spines of each pair equal, the three pairs unequal.

The genus Hexalonchidium exhibits the same relation to Hexalonche that Hexastylidium bears to Hexastylus; the growth of the three spine-pairs is different, whilst both spines of each pair are equal; they correspond therefore to the three axes of a rhombic crystal.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with short bristle-shaped by-spines, twice as broad as the medullary shell; both with regular hexagonal meshes, twice to three times as broad as the bars (inner meshes half as broad as the outer). All three spine-pairs three-sided prismatic, of very different length but of equal breadth (equal to three pores). Major spine-pair twice as long as the shell diameter; middle pair about equal to the latter, minor scarcely half as long. (Similar to Hexalonche anaximandri, Pl. 22, fig. 5, but distinct in the different length of the spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.06; length of the major spines 0.25, middle 0.1, minor 0.04.

Subfamily Hexacontida,^[109] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 452.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with three concentric, spherical, or octahedral lattice-shells.

Genus 79. Hexacontium, Haeckel,^[110] 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Shell with three concentric lattice-spheres and six simple spines of equal size.

The genus Hexacontium, the ancestral form of the Hexacontida, is probably derived from Hexalonche by duplication of the medullary shell. As in the latter, all six spines are of equal size, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes, and correspond therefore to the three equal axes of a tesseral crystal.

Subgenus 1. Hexacontanna, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular or subregular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth, without radial spines or papillæ (other than the six main spines).

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth; its pores regular hexagonal, six to nine times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4. Both medullary shells of the same structure as the cortical shell, only with smaller pores. The three spheres connected by six thin radial beams, which are prolonged on the outside into six strong triangular pyramidal spines, as long as the radius of the cortical shell, and, at the base, as broad as one of its pores. (Differs from Hexastylus phænaxonius and from Hexalonche phænaxonia, Pl. 21, fig. 3, in the larger size and the triple shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.2, middle 0.1, inner 0.05; cortical pores 0.008, bars 0.0012; length of the spines 0.1.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth; its pores regular circular, five to six times as broad as the bars; eleven to thirteen on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8. Outer medullary shell with hexagonal frames around the regular circular pores (five to six on the radius). Inner medullary shell with simple small circular pores (three on the radius). The two outer shells connected by six triangular prismatic beams, which are prolonged outside to the length of the cortical radius or more.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.2, middle 0.07, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.016, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1 to 0.015, basal breadth 0.02.

Actinomma hexactis, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 91, Taf. ii. fig. 7.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, or a little rough. Pores regular circular, of the same breadth as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres {193}= 1 : 3 : 6. Both medullary shells of the same structure, but with smaller pores. Six spines triangular pyramidal, nearly as long as the diameter of the outer shell, three times as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer sphere 0.1, middle 0.05, inner 0.016; cortical pores and bars 0.008; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.025.

Cortical shell thick walled, quite smooth. Pores regular circular, with double margins, eight to ten on the radius, of the same breadth as the smooth bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6. All three spheres connected by six very thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into six short, stout, triangular, pyramidal spines, half as long as the radius of the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.13, middle 0.04, inner 0.02; cortical pores and bars 0.008; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth. Pores regular circular, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 10. Six spines conical, about as long as the radius of the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, middle 0.05, inner 0.016; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell a regular octahedron, thin walled, with twelve more or less rounded edges (between the spine-bases) and with smooth surface; its pores regular circular, five to seven on the radius, four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three shells = 1 : 3 : 9. Both medullary shells spherical, with very small circular pores. Six inner bars very thin; six outer spines (their prolongations) triangular pyramidal, as long as the radius of the outer shell. (Differs from Hexalonche octahedra, Pl. 22, fig. 8, almost solely in the duplication of the medullary shell.)

Cortical shell double, enclosing a simple medullary shell. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 3 : 10 : 12. Inner cortical shell very thick walled, with regular circular, double-edged pores, four times as broad as the bars; seven to nine on the radius. From each nodal-point between {194}every six pores arises a small, bristle-shaped, radial spine, as long as the diameter of one pore. The distal ends of all these spines are connected by very delicate tangential threads, and consequently form by their attachment an outer cortical shell, with regular hexagonal meshes and smooth surface. Six main spines short, three-sided prismatic, scarcely as long as half the radius of the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.1, inner 0.03; pores of the middle shell 0.004, bars 0.001; length of the spines 0.025, basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Hexacontella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular or subregular, of nearly equal size and similar form; surface covered with numerous conical or bristle-shaped, radial spines (other than the six main spines).

Cortical shell thin walled, bristly, with very delicate network; its pores regular hexagonal, twelve to sixteen on the radius, ten to twelve times as broad as the thin thread-like bars. At each nodal-point of the network (between every three meshes) arises a bristle-shaped, radial spine, as long as the diameter of one mesh. Six main spines hexagonal, as long as the radius of the outer shell, as broad at its base as one mesh. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4. Pores of both medullary shells also regular hexagonal, but much smaller, in the middle shell eleven to twelve, in the inner, six to seven on the half meridian.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, of the middle 0.06, of the inner 0.03; meshes of the outer shell 0.008; length of the six spines 0.05, basal thickness 0.008.

Cortical shell very thick walled, spiny, with regular, honeycomb-like network; its meshes funnel-shaped, with circular inner, hexagonal outer aperture, twice as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Between every three meshes (at each corner of the hexagon) arises a short radial thorn, not so long as the thickness of the shell-wall. Six radial spines very short and stout, three-sided pyramidal, scarcely half so long as the radius of the outer shell. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 5. Pores of both medullary shells regular, circular, about as broad as the bars, six to eight on the half meridian.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the middle 0.04 to 0.05, of the inner 0.02; meshes of the outer shell 0.008; length of the six spines 0.2 to 0.3, basal breadth 0.015.

Cortical shell thick walled, spiny, with regular, honeycomb-like network; its meshes funnel-shaped, with circular inner, hexagonal outer aperture, three to four times as broad as the bars; {195}five to six on the radius. Between every three meshes arises a short radial thorn, as long as the thickness of the shell-wall. Six radial spines sceptre-shaped, six-sided, somewhat constricted towards their middle part, strong, as long as the radius of the outer shell, as broad as one of its meshes. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6. Pores of the two inner shells regular hexagonal, with thin bars, six to eight on the half meridian (fig. 1a).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.13, of the middle 0.04, of the inner 0.02; pores of the outer shell 0.01, of the middle 0.008, of the inner 0.004; length of the six spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.015.

Cortical shell thick walled, thorny; its pores regular circular, with elevated hexagonal frames six to nine on the radius, twice as broad as the crest-shaped bars. At each nodal-point of the hexagon arises one short conical papilla or thorn. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 10. Pores of both medullary shells much smaller, regular circular. Six main spines three-sided prismatic, longer than the radius of the outer shell, as broad as one of its meshes; their three edges serrated, with ten to twelve teeth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.045, inner 0.015; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.1, breadth 0.012.

Cortical shell very thick walled, thorny; its pores regular circular, hexagonally framed, three times as broad as the bars, nine to twelve on the radius; between them short conical papillæ or thorns arising at the nodal-points. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 5. Outer medullary shell with regular circular, much smaller pores; connected with the cortical shell by numerous (twenty to thirty) thin radial beams. Six main spines very stout, club-shaped, scarcely as long as the radius of the outer shell, three times as broad as one of its pores, three-sided, with three to four teeth on each edge.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, of the middle 0.08, of the inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the six spines 0.08, breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell papillose, thick walled. Pores regular, six-lobed, four times as broad as the bars, five to seven on the radius; each pore with six (sometimes also five or seven) concave indentations or lobules; between the pores at the nodal-points arise short conical papillæ or thorns. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 3. Radial main spines pommel-shaped, three-sided prismatic, longer than the radius of the outer shell, two to three times as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.06, inner 0.03; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the six spines 0.08, breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell spiny, thick walled. Pores regular circular, of the same breadth as the bars, ten to twelve on the radius; between them long bristle-shaped by-spines, half as long as the six main spines. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 9. Six main spines conical, as long as the radius of the outer shell, four times as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.18, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores and bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Haliomma asteracanthion, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 816.

Actinomma asteracanthion, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 441, Taf. xxiii. figs. 5, 6.

Cortical shell thin walled, spiny; its pores circular, without hexagonal frame (as a rule very regular, but in other specimens more or less irregular), often very variable in size, three to six times as broad as the bars, commonly seven to eight on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4, or sometimes 1 : 3 : 8. Pores of the two inner shells also circular, but much smaller; those of the middle shell about half as broad, those of the inner shell one-fourth to one-sixth as broad as the pores of the outer shell. Six radial spines strong, three-sided prismatic, about as long as (or somewhat longer than) the radius of the outer shell, as broad as one of its large meshes. Accessory spines very numerous and very thin, bristle-like, usually half as long as the six main spines. (For the variability of this common species compare my Monograph, p. 442.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1 to 0.12, of the middle 0.04 to 0.06, of the inner 0.02 to 0.03; cortical pores 0.005 to 0.01; length of the six spines 0.06 to 0.08.

Subgenus 3. Hexacontosa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface smooth, without radial by-spines or papillæ (other than the six main spines).

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth. Pores irregular polygonal, three to nine times as broad as the bars; seven to ten on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8. Both {197}medullary shells with smaller, irregular roundish pores. Six spines three-sided pyramidal, longer than the radius of the outer shell, one to two times as broad as one larger pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.045, inner 0.015; cortical pores 0.006 to 0.018, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.06 to 0.12, basal breadth 0.02 to 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth. Pores irregular roundish, with polygonal frames, two to four times as broad as the bars; eight to twelve on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 10. Six spines pyramidal, nearly as long as the diameter of the outer shell, with six to nine prominent edges (along the corner number of the polygonal meshes).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.16 to 0.18, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular roundish pores, eight to ten on the radius, two to four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 9. Both medullary shells with smaller roundish irregular pores. Six spines conical, pyramidal at their origin, about as long as the radius, as broad as one larger mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.18, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.12.

Subgenus 4. Hexacontura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form; surface covered with numerous conical papillæ or bristle-shaped, radial by-spines (other than the six main spines).

Cortical shell thick walled, papillose. Pores irregular roundish, often somewhat lobed, five to six on the radius, two to four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2.5 : 5. Both medullary shells with subregular circular pores (inner much smaller). Six radial spines short and stout, pommel or club shaped, with three prominent wings, about as long as the shell radius, and as broad as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, middle 0.05, inner 0.02, cortical pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.05, bars 0.02.

Cortical shell very thick walled, spiny, with irregular network; its meshes roundish, two to five times as broad as the bars, of very different size, ten to fifteen on the half meridian. Bars between them very strong, three-sided prismatic, armed with a great number of small thorns, and with large spines at the nodal-points between every three meshes. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 12. Six strong radial main spines three-sided prismatic, with three prominent, somewhat contorted wings, acute, broader than the diameter of the inner shell and as long as the diameter of the outer shell. These six main spines are situated in the same three dimensive axes as the six thin radial beams connecting the two medullary shells. But the six radial beams which connect the middle with the outer shell alternate with the former and lie in three other dimensive axes,—a very rare and remarkable disposition.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.05, inner 0.016; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.006; length of the six spines 0.2, breadth 0.02 to 0.03.

Cortical shell thin walled, with numerous bristle-shaped, simple, radial by-spines of variable length. Pores irregular roundish, five to seven on the radius, two to eight times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 9. Main spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1 to 0.015, middle 0.035 to 0.05, inner 0.013 to 0.016; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.003 to 0.004; length of the six spines 0.05 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.012 to 0.015.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, surface; also fossil in Barbados.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with numerous thin, bristle-shaped by-spines, which are forked and nearly as long as the main spines. Pores irregular roundish, eight to ten on the radius, two to eight times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2.5 : 10. Main spines triangular pyramidal, shorter then the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.18, middle 0.045, inner 0.018; cortical pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.002; length of the six spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.015.

Actinomma drymodes, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 442, Taf. xxiv. fig. 9.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with numerous thin, bristle-shaped spines, which are double forked and half as long as the main spines. Pores irregular roundish, eight to ten on the radius, {199}two to eight times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4. Main spines three-sided prismatic, with prominent, often somewhat contorted edges, at the distal end cuspidated; longer than the radius of the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.07, inner 0.035; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.04; length of the six spines 0.11, basal breadth 0.03.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina), surface; Canary Islands (Lanzerote); Haeckel.

Cortical shell double, enclosing a simple medullary shell. Radial proportion of the three shells = 1 : 4 : 5. Inner cortical shell thick walled, with irregular roundish pores, two to eight times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Numerous radial spines, arising from it, are connected below their distal ends (at equal distances from the centre) by delicate branched threads, and so form an outer, irregular, thin, cortical shell, with spiny surface. Six main spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, middle 0.2, inner 0.045; cortical pores (of both outer shells) 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.001 to 0.005; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 80. Hexadendron,^[111] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and six branched spines of equal size.

The genus Hexadendron differs from Hexacontium in the ramification of the six dimensive spines, and from the similar Hexancistra in the duplication of the medullary shell. As in the latter instance, each spine can bear either three simple lateral branches or three rows of pinnate lateral branches.

All three shells spherical, with radial proportion = 1 : 2 : 6. Pores of both medullary shells regular circular, twice as broad as the bars. Pores of the cortical shell irregular roundish, four to six times as broad as the bars; surface a little thorny. Six radial spines prismatic, with three prominent wing-like edges, which are prolonged below the distal end in three curved lateral branches. (Differs from Hexalonche quadricuspis, Pl. 22, fig. 11, mainly in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; length of the spines 0.12, breadth 0.01.

All three shells regular octahedral, with very delicate network of irregular polygonal meshes, and very thin, thread-like bars between them; their radial proportion = 1 : 2.5 : 7.5. Surface of the cortical shell covered with numerous bristle-shaped by-spines, as long as the radius. Six main spines very large, three-sided prismatic, with three rows of pinnate, lateral branches, on the three wing-like, spirally twisted edges (similar to those of Hexancistra mirabilis, p. 189, Pl. 23, fig. 3).

Genus 81. Hexacontarium,^[112] n. gen.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and six simple spines of different size; one opposite pair larger than the two others.

The genus Hexacontarium exhibits to its ancestral form Hexacontium the same relation that Hexaloncharium bears to Hexalonche; the former is developed from the latter by duplication of the medullary shell. As two opposite spines of one pair are larger than the four others, they correspond to the three axes of a quadratic crystal.

Cortical shell with regular circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars, with smooth surface. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 5. Six radial spines three-sided prismatic, half as broad as the inner medullary shell, with three dentated edges. Two opposite major spines longer than the shell diameter; four other minor spines only half as long as the radius. (Similar to Hexacontium clavigerum, Pl. 23, fig. 5, but distinct by the prolongation of the spines of one axis.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.06, inner 0.03; length of the major spines 0.2, minor 0.04.

Cortical shell covered with short conical by-spines and irregular roundish pores, three to four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8. Six radial spines three-sided prismatic, at the distal end club-shaped; two major spines three times as long as the four others, which are equal to the shell radius.

Subfamily Hexacromyida,^[113] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 453.

Genus 82. Hexacromyum,^[114] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and six simple spines of equal size.

The genus Hexacromyum possesses four concentric, spherical, or octahedral lattice-shells; two inner medullary shells within the central capsule, two outer cortical outside it. The four spheres are connected by six radial beams, which are prolonged outside into simple spines of equal size, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes. This genus can be derived from Hexacontium by duplication of the cortical shell.

Shell composed of four concentric shells, with radial proportion = 1 : 2.5 : 7.5 : 10. First (innermost) shell with very small circular pores, second shell with larger circular pores. Third shell (inner cortical shell) with large, subregular, circular, hexagonally framed pores (eight to nine on the radius), twice as broad as the bars; from the elevated nodal-points of the hexagonal frames (between every three pores) arise thin bristle-shaped radial beams, which are united at the distal end by vaulted branches forming the delicate fourth shell. Surface smooth. Radial spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the radius, as broad at the base as the innermost shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.15, (D) 0.2; length of the six radial spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell composed of four concentric shells, with radial proportion = 1 : 3 : 8 : 10. Structure of all four shells the same, with regular, circular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; size of the pores gradually increasing from the innermost to the outermost shell; surface smooth. Radial spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the radius, half as broad at the base as the innermost shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.025, (B) 0.08, (C) 0.20, (D) 0.25; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.012.

Hexacromidium arachnoides, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Shell composed of four concentric shells, with radial proportion = 1 : 2 : 3 : 4. Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes; the three other shells with irregular, polygonal meshes; bars between the large meshes in all four shells very thin, cobweb-like. Surface covered with thin bristle-shaped by-spines, as long as the radius. Six radial main spines three-sided prismatic, longer than the diameter of the whole shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.08, (B) 0.16, (C) 0.24, (D) 0.32; length of the spines 0.4, breadth 0.01.

Shell composed of four concentric shells which are not spherical (as in the three preceding species), but regular octahedral. Radial proportion = 1 : 2.5 : 6 : 9. Network in all four shells delicate, with irregular polygonal meshes and thin bars; the thickness of the bars and size of the meshes increasing from the innermost to the outermost shell. Six radial spines three-sided prismatic, increasing slowly in breadth towards the distal end, much longer than the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.18; length of the radial spines 0.2 to 0.3 and more, breadth 0.01.

Subfamily Hexacaryida,^[115] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Genus 83. Cubosphæra,^[116] n. gen.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with five to six or more concentric lattice-shells and six simple spines of equal size.

The genus Cubosphæra is developed from the preceding Hexacromyum by further addition of the concentric lattice-shells, their number amounting to five, six, or more. The innermost two of these are medullary shells, the others being cortical shells. All are connected by six radial beams, prolonged outside into six simple spines of equal size; these lie opposite in pairs in three dimensive axes, corresponding to the three axes of a cube.

Hexacromyon cubaxonium, Haeckel, 1881, Prodrom. et Atlas.

Shell composed of five concentric spheres, with the radial proportion = 1 : 3 : 8 : 10 : 13. The two medullary shells with small regular, circular pores of the same breadth as the bars. Inner cortical shell (third shell) with large regular, circular pores, four times as broad as the bars, hexagonally framed. From each hexagon-corner arises a thin bristle-shaped radial by-spine, which at a fixed distance from the centre is united with the middle cortical shell (fourth shell), which has very small circular pores. The beginning of the fifth shell (outermost) is indicated by six small reticula, produced by the six main spines at equal distances from the centre. All five shells are united by six prismatic radial beams, ending outside in pyramidal furrowed spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the five shells—(A) 0.2, (B) 0.15, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.045, (E) 0.015.

Shell composed of six concentric spheres, with the radial proportion = 1 : 2 : 6 : 7.5 : 9 : 11. The two medullary shells with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. The four cortical shells of the same structure, with irregular, roundish pores, three to four times as broad as the bars. The size of these pores and the breadth of their bars gradually increase towards the smooth surface. All six shells are connected by six thin three-sided prismatic radial beams, which are prolonged outside in six stronger spines, angular pyramidal, with smooth edges, as long as the shell radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the six shells—(A) 0.02 (B) 0.04, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.15, (E) 0.18, (F) 0.22.

Genus 84. Hexacaryum,^[117] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with five to six or more concentric lattice-shells and six branched spines of equal size.

The genus Hexacaryum is distinguished from the foregoing Cubosphæra by ramification of the six radial spines, and therefore exhibits the same relation to it that Hexancistra bears to Hexastylus, &c.

Shell composed of five, six, or more concentric shells, which are united by six very large radial spines. The two medullary shells spherical, inner with regular, circular, outer with irregular polygonal pores. All cortical shells (third and following) not spherical, but regular octahedral, with irregular polygonal meshes and thin bars. Radial spines prismatic, with three wing-like, spirally twisted edges, which at equal distances send out thin forked lateral branches (six on each {204}verticil); by further ramification and communication of these branches the triangular net-plates arise, filling out the sides of the octahedral cortical shells. Diameter of all shells little different. The outer free parts of the six spines are arborescent, twice to three times as long as the enclosed inner parts, and bear six to eight verticils of free lateral branches, decreasing in size towards the distal end (similar to Arachnosphæra).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the six shells—(A) 0.015, (B) 0.04, (C) 0.1, (D) 0.16, (E) 0.22, (F) &c.; average distance of the concentric octahedra = 0.06; length of the radial spines 0.3 to 0.4 and more, breadth 0.02.

Subfamily Hexadorida,^[118] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 455.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with spongy spherical or octahedral shell (with or without enclosed concentrical lattice-shells).

Genus 85. Cubaxonium,^[119] n. gen.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with solid spongy spherical or octahedral shell, without latticed medullary shell in the centre, and with six simple radial spines of equal size.

The genus Cubosphæra may be regarded as a form of Styptosphæra, which develops six radial spines, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes. The solid spongy framework of the shell assumes the outer form either of a sphere, or of a regular octahedron.

Spongy shell spherical, composed of a very dense spongy framework of nearly uniform structure; the meshes three to four times as broad as the bars; surface almost smooth. Six spines cylindrical, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the spongy sphere, about as broad as one half mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.2, meshes 0.006 to 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.4 to 0.5, breadth 0.004.

Spongy shell octahedral, composed of a loose spongy framework of nearly uniform structure; the meshes ten to twelve times as broad as the bars; surface thorny. Six spines three-sided {205}pyramidal, longer than the diameter of the octahedron, arising from its six corners, as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, meshes 0.01 to 0.012, bars 0.001; length of the spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.01.

Genus 86. Hexadoras,^[120] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with spongy spherical shell and one simple latticed medullary shell in its centre, having six simple spines of equal size.

The genus Hexadoras exhibits the same structure of the spongy shell as Spongoplegma, but differs from it in the production of six dimensive spines. In the centre lies one simple, latticed, medullary shell, which is either spherical or octahedral. In the latter case the six spines arise from the six corners of the octahedron.

Medullary shell spherical, with regular hexagonal meshes, twice as broad as the bars. Cortical shell entirely enclosing it, with loose irregular framework and thorny surface. Diameter of the outer shell three times as large as that of the inner. Six radial spines arising from the medullary shell, four to five times as long as the radius of the cortical shell, three-sided prismatic, with straight dentated edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4.

Medullary shell spherical, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars. Cortical shell enveloping it, with loose irregular framework and spiny surface. Diameter of the outer shell eight times as large as that of the inner. Six radial spines arising from the inner shell, three-sided prismatic, with dentated, spirally contorted edges, seven times as long as the diameter of the medullary shell, with three lateral branches at the distal end (similar to Lychnosphæra, Pl. 11, fig. 1).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.5, inner 0.06; total length of the spines 0.4, breadth 0.01.

Medullary shell regular octahedral, with irregular polygonal meshes, five times as broad as the bars. Cortical shell enveloping it, with dense spongy framework, also octahedral with rough surface. {206}Diameter of the outer shell five times as large as that of the inner. Six radial spines very long, arising from the six corners of the inner and piercing the spongy mass of the outer shell, considerably exceeding it at the free distal end, three-sided prismatic, with elegantly denticulate edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.04; total length of the spines 0.3 or more, breadth 0.02.

Genus 87. Hexadoridium,^[121] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Definition.—Cubosphærida with spongy spherical shell and two concentric latticed medullary shells in its centre, having six simple spines of equal size.

The genus Hexadoridium differs from Hexadoras in the duplication of the medullary shell, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Spongodictyon bears to Spongoplegma. In the only known species the six spines are opposite, arranged quite regularly in pairs in the three dimensive axes, and consequently represent the three axes of a regular crystal or cube.

Both medullary shells spherical, with small regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; outer twice as broad as the inner. Spongy cortical shell enclosing it with dense framework, five times as broad as the outer medullary shell, regular octahedral. Six radial spines, arising from the latter, are thinned at the inner end, three to five times as long as the diameter of the cortical shell, and nearly as broad as the inner medullary shell, with three dentated and spirally contorted edges. (Very similar to the common Spongosphæra streptacantha, with irregular and variable number and dispositions of spines; possibly its ancestral form?).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.04, inner 0.02; length of the spines 1 mm. and more, breadth 0.02.

Family X. Astrosphærida (Pls. 11, 18-20, 26-30).

Definition.—Sphæroidea with numerous (eight to twelve or more, commonly between twenty and sixty) radial spines on the surface of the spherical shell; living solitary (not associated in colonies).

The family Astrosphærida, the largest and most varied of all Sphæroidea, is distinguished from the other members of this group by the possession of numerous {207}radial spines, which are either regularly or irregularly disposed on the surface of the spherical shell. The extreme variability and richness of form in this family is mainly due to the different size, shape, and disposition of these radial spines.

The simplest Astrosphærida are the Coscinommida, with a single spherical or polyhedral lattice-shell. To this ancestral group all other subfamilies can be opposed as "Astrosphærida composita," since their skeleton is composed of two or more concentric lattice-shells: two in the Haliommida, three in the Actinommida, four in the Cromyommida, five or more in the Caryommida. In these four subfamilies the concentric shells are all simple (not spongy) fenestrated spheres or endospherical polyhedra. In the sixth subfamily, the Spongiommida, the shell is wholly or partially composed of spongy irregular wicker-work, with or without a medullary shell in the centre.

The Number of the Radial Spines in the Astrosphærida is extremely variable, and ranges from eight to forty or more; in many cases more than one hundred. Often each nodal-point of the network develops on the shell surface one spine. Still more frequently the number of the spines is less than that of the nodal-points. In all concentric Astrosphærida, having two or more concentrical shells, we can distinguish "primary spines," as outer prolongations of the inner radial beams connecting the shells, and "secondary spines," developed only on the outer surface of the shell. Naturally the former are of much greater importance than the latter. But we can also often distinguish among the latter larger "main spines" and smaller "by-spines," the latter commonly much more numerous than the former.

The Disposition of the Radial Spines, either regular or irregular, is a subject of great morphological interest, and remains to be exhausted by further observations. The following cases of regular disposition have been observed by me—(A) eight spines, opposite in pairs in four axes corresponding to the four diagonal axes of a cube; (B) nine spines, regularly disposed at equal distances (?) (not opposed in pairs); (C) ten spines, disposed at equal distances (?); (D) twelve spines, regularly disposed, corresponding to the twelve corners of the regular icosahedron; (E) fourteen spines, quite regularly disposed (six corresponding to the three axes of a regular octahedron, eight to the central points of its eight faces); (F) sixteen spines, regularly disposed (?); (G) twenty spines (very common!), either disposed in the same manner (after the law of Johannes Müller) as in the Acantharia (?), or corresponding to the twenty corners of the regular or pentagonal dodecahedron, or disposed in the same manner as in many Larcoidea (Tholonida, &c., to be described afterwards); (H) twenty-four spines, regularly disposed (?); (I) thirty-two spines, quite regularly disposed (twenty corresponding to the twenty corners of the regular dodecahedron, twelve to the central points of its twelve faces); (K) forty spines, nearly regularly (or quite symmetrically?) disposed. If the number of the spines amounts to more than forty, it is as a rule impossible to determine their regular disposition in a satisfactory manner.

Synopsis of the Genera of Astrosphærida.

Subfamily Coscinommida, Haeckel.

Genus 88. Acanthosphæra,^[122] Ehrenberg, 1858, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere, covered with simple radial spines of the same kind.

The genus Acanthosphæra exhibits the most simple form of all Astrosphærida; a simple spherical lattice-shell, the surface of which is covered by radial spines of one and the same kind. The number of the latter is very variable, often twelve to twenty, regularly disposed; in other cases forty to sixty or more; and sometimes at each nodal-point of the network a spine is developed.

Subgenus 1. Rhaphidococcus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 365 (sensu emendato).

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell regular or subregular, all of nearly equal size and similar form. Radial spines arising from all the nodal-points of the network.

Heliosphæra tenuissima, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 351, Taf. ix. fig. 2.

Shell extremely thin walled, eight to ten times as broad as one pore. Meshes or pores regular, hexagonal, with thread-like bars; five to seven on the radius. At each nodal-point (between every three meshes) arises a bristle-shaped radial spine, as long as the diameter of one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2 to 0.25, of the meshes or pores 0.025 to 0.03, bars below 0.0001; length of the spines 0.03.

Shell very thin walled, about twenty times as broad as one pore. Meshes subregular, hexagonal, with thread-like bars; twelve to fourteen on the radius. At each nodal-point arises a bristle-shaped radial spine, about as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3 to 0.35, pores 0.015 to 0.018, bars below 0.001; length of the spines 0.12 to 0.16.

Shell thin walled, five to six times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars. Radial spines bristle-shaped, as long as the diameter of one pore, arising from all the nodal-points.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.07 to 0.08, pores 0.012, bars 0.001; length of the spines 0.012.

Shell thick walled, forty to fifty times as broad as one pore. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, half as broad as the bars. Radial spines bristle-shaped, as long as the radius of the shell, arising from all the nodal-points.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.22, pores 0.003, bars 0.006; length of the spines 0.1.

Cladococcus dentatus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 367, Taf. xiii. fig. 10.

Shell thin walled, eight to ten times as broad as one pore. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, three times as broad as the bars. Radial spines arising from all the nodal-points of the network, three-sided prismatic, with dentated or serrated edges, longer than the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1, breadth 0.003.

Rhaphidococcus acufer, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 366, Taf. xiv. fig. 1.

Cladococcus acufer, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 800.

Shell thin walled, eight to ten times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars. Radial spines bristle-shaped, arising with thicker conical bases from all the nodal-points, about as long as the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.08.

Shell thick walled, thirty times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, nearly of the same breadth as the bars. Radial spines bristle-shaped, arising with thicker conical bases from all the nodal-points, scarcely half as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores and bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.03.

Shell thick walled, thirteen times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars, with an elegant six-lobed frame (Pl. 28, fig. 1b). In the intervals between the six lobes of each mesh arise six conical radial spines (half as long as the radius), six around each pore. (Differs from the similar Haliomma flosculentum, Pl. 28, fig. 1, in the absence of an enclosed medullary shell and the stronger development of the spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Rhaphidocapsa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell regular or subregular, all of nearly equal size and similar form. Radial spines scattered at some distance apart, not at all the nodal-points.

Heliosphæra insignis, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus der Radiol., p. 40, Taf. v. fig. 7.

Shell thin walled, about ten times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, hexagonal, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars. Radial spines about one hundred and twenty, arising from certain nodal-points of the network, being as long as the diameter of the sphere, three-sided prismatic, with three thin denticulated edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.02, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.18, breadth 0.003.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean (Messina), Atlantic (Stations 325, 347), Indian (Ceylon), Pacific (Stations 270 to 274), surface.

Shell thin walled, about six times as broad as one mesh. Pores subregular, hexagonal, with thread-like bars; three to four on the radius. Radial spines about twenty, three-sided pyramidal, as long as the diameter, and one-third as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.06 to 0.09, pores 0.01 to 0.014, bars below 0.001; length of the spines 0.07 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.03 to 0.04.

Shell thick walled, fifteen times as broad as one pore. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, funnel-shaped, three times as broad as the bars. Radial spines twenty to thirty, dagger-shaped or spindle-shaped, angular, twice as broad in the middle as one pore, about as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11, pores 0.0075, bars 0.0025; length of the spines 0.06, breadth 0.015.

Shell thick walled, ten to twelve times as broad as one mesh. Pores subregular, circular, three times as broad as the bars. Radial spines twenty, club-shaped, angular, with prominent edges, twice as broad at the distal end as one pore, about as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.06, breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, twelve times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular double-edged, four times as broad as the bars. Radial spines conical, fourteen in number, about as long as the {213}radius, and as broad at the base as one mesh. Six spines correspond to the six corners of a regular octahedron, eight to the centre of the eight faces.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, pores 0.008, bars 0.002; radial spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.01.

Shell thick walled, fifteen times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally lobed, separated by prominent funnel-shaped crests of half the breadth. Twenty conical radial spines, half as long as the radius, as broad at the base as one funnel.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thin walled, fourteen times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars. Nine radial spines, regularly disposed, as long as the shell diameter, three-sided prismatic, with pyramidal apex, as broad as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.15, breadth 0.01.

Shell thick walled, octahedral, fourteen times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars. Fourteen radial spines, regularly disposed, conical, as long as the radius of the shell, twice as broad at the base as one mesh. Six spines correspond to the six corners of a regular octahedron, eight to the central points of its eight faces.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, about sixty times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars. Thirty to forty radial spines, three-sided pyramidal, scarcely half as long as the radius, five to six times as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.24, pores 0.004, bars 0.002; length of the radial spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 3. Raphidodrymus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregular, of different size or form. Radial spines arising from all the nodal-points of the network.

Shell thin walled, with irregular polygonal meshes, twelve to twenty times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Radial spines bristle-shaped, arising from all the nodal-points of the network, about as long as the diameter of the largest meshes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15 to 0.2, pores 0.012 to 0.02, bars 0.001; length of the spines 0.02.

Shell thin walled, with irregular roundish, polygonally framed meshes, three to four times as broad as the bars. Radial spines arising from all the nodal-points of the network, pyramidal at the base; in the distal half bristle-shaped, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.006 to 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.07.

Habitat.—Arctic Ocean, Greenland (in the stomach of Periphylla hyacinthina).

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, about as broad as the bars. Radial spines arising from all nodal-points of the network, conical at the base, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores and bars 0.005 to 0.008; length of the spines 0.04.

Subgenus 4. Rhaphidosphæra, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Pores of the spherical shell irregular, of different size or form. Radial spines scattered at intervals, not at all the nodal-points.

Cyrtidosphæra echinoides, Haeckel, 1865, Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., xv. p. 367, Taf. xxvi. fig. 5.

Shell thin walled, with irregular polygonal or more roundish pores of very different size. Forty to fifty very large meshes, separated by rows of much smaller meshes. Radial spines forty to sixty, half as long as the shell radius, bristle-shaped, with conical bases.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13, larger pores 0.03, smaller 0.003; length of the spines 0.03.

Shell thin walled, with irregular polygonal meshes, four to six times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Thirty to forty radial spines, three-sided prismatic, twice as broad as the bars, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, pores 0.012 to 0.02, bars 0.003; length of the radial spines 0.2 to 0.4, breadth 0.006.

Shell thick walled, with irregular polygonal meshes, twice to four times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the radius. Sixty to eighty radial spines, pyramidal, half as long as the radius of the shell, one-fourth as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2 to 0.22, pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Cenosphæra acanthica, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 86, Taf. i. fig. 3.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; seven to nine on the radius. Ten to twenty radial spines pyramidal, shorter than the radius, twice as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.16, pores 0.006 to 0.009, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.04 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.015.

Acanthosphæra haliphormis, Ehrenberg, 1861, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1872, Taf. ii. fig. 1.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; four to five on the radius. Twelve to twenty radial spines pyramidal, longer than the radius, scarcely as broad as one mesh at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.06 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.01.

Shell thin walled; its pores irregular, roundish, with angular, double-edged margin, two to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Twenty to thirty radial spines pyramidal, angular, with prominent edges, shorter than the radius, as broad at the base as one small mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.02 to 0.04, bars 0.01; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Twenty radial spines conical, regularly disposed, half as long as the radius, as broad at the base as one of the largest meshes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.008 to 0.02, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to eight times as broad as the bars; twelve to twenty on the radius. Radial spines very numerous (two to three hundred), short, conical, scarcely as long as the diameter of the largest meshes, and one-third as broad.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3 to 0.4, pores 0.008 to 0.03, bars 0.004; length of the radial spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.01.

Rhaphidococcus simplex, Haeckel, Monogr. d. Radiol., 1862, p. 366, figs. 5, 6.Taf. xiii.

Cladococcus simplex, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 800.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, three to six times as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the radius. Forty to sixty radial spines, about as long as the diameter of the shell, three-sided prismatic, not straight, but more or less bent.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.005 to 0.012, bars 0.0015 to 0.02; length of the spines 0.12, breadth 0.003.

Shell thin walled, rugged or tuberculate, covered by about twenty hill-shaped tubercles or protuberances with flat valleys between them. Network very delicate, with thread-like bars and {217}irregular, polygonal pores; twenty to thirty on the radius. Radial spines very numerous, bristle-shaped, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3, pores 0.01 to 0.02; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.05.

Rhaphidosphæra reticulata, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Surface of the bars covered with a peculiar delicate network of very fine crests. Twenty to forty radial spines, angular, pyramidal, scarcely one-third as long as the radius of the shell, as broad at the base as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.22, pores 0.02 to 0.04, bars 0.01; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.01.

Genus 89. Heliosphæra,^[123] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 350 (sensu emendato).

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere, covered with simple radial spines of two different kinds: larger main spines and smaller by-spines.

The genus Heliosphæra (in the mended definition here employed) differs from the foregoing Acanthosphæra in the possession of two different kinds of radial spines: larger main spines scattered on the surface or disposed regularly in limited numbers (twelve to twenty, sometimes forty to fifty or more), and smaller by-spines in much larger numbers, arising from all the nodal-points of the network (or sometimes also from its bars).

Subgenus 1. Heliosphærella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the shell regular or subregular, all of nearly equal size and similar form.

Shell very thin walled, about twenty times as broad as one pore. Meshes or pores subregular, hexagonal, with thread-like bars; fifteen to seventeen on the radius. Radial spines at the nodal-points of the network; about forty main spines three-sided pyramidal, half as broad at the base as one pore, and twice as long as the bristle-shaped by-spines, which are very numerous, and as long as the diameter of one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25 to 0.3, of the meshes or pores 0.012 to 0.015, bars below 0.001; length of the main spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.007.

Heliosphæra actinota, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 352, Taf. ix. fig. 3.

Shell very thin walled, about ten times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, hexagonal, with thread-like bars; six to eight on the radius. Radial spines at the nodal-points of the network, bristle-shaped, scarcely broader than the bars; about twenty main spines as long as the diameter of the shell, and numerous by-spines, only one-third to one-half as long as the former.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2 to 0.25, of the meshes 0.02 to 0.03, bars below 0.001; length of the main spines 0.2 to 0.3.

Heliosphæra echinoides, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 352, Taf. ix. fig. 4.

Shell thin walled, about six times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, hexagonal, eight times as broad as the bars. Radial spines arising, not from the nodal-points of the network, but from the midst of the bars (very rare disposition!); twenty main spines regularly disposed, as long as the radius, four times as long as the numerous by-spines; all spines bristle-shaped, of the same breadth as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.09, pores 0.015, bars 0.002; length of the main spines 0.04.

Heliosphæra elegans, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 353, Taf. ix. fig. 5.

Shell very thin walled, about ten times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, hexagonal, with thread-like bars, which are crossed by tangential bars, so that each side of a hexagon exhibits a regular rectangular cross (exactly the same as in Pl. 19, fig. 5). All radial spines bristle-shaped, as thin as the bars, and arising from the nodal-points; twenty main spines as long as the radius, numerous by-spines scarcely one-sixth as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.26, pores 0.026, bars below 0.001; length of the main spines 0.13.

Acanthosphæra pectinata, Haeckel, 1881, Atlas.

Shell thick walled, combed, about fourteen times as broad as one mesh. Pores subregular, circular, with elevated hexagonal frames, three times as broad as the bars. Radial spines very {219}numerous and stout; thirty to forty main spines, three-sided pyramidal, nearly as long as the radius, as broad as one mesh; by-spines small, conical, everywhere scattered at the nodal-points of the network and on the high combs of the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the main spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.016.

Acanthosphæra coronata, Haeckel, 1881, Atlas.

Shell thick walled, about ten times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, five times as broad as the bars; each pore surrounded by a regular coronal of six short, conical by-spines (fig. 6a); twenty to thirty main spines, also conical, half as long as the radius, as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the main spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.015.

Shell thick walled about ten times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, six-lobed, twice as broad as the bars; each pore surrounded by six small conical by-spines (as in Pl. 28, figs. 1, 1b); twenty main spines regularly disposed cylindro-conical, as long as the diameter of the shell or longer.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.015, bars 0.008; length of the main spines 0.16, breadth 0.008.

Shell thick walled, about twelve times as broad as one mesh. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; each pore surrounded by an elegant coronal of ten to twenty small, conical by-spines; twenty main spines regularly disposed, conical, only one-third as long as the radius, as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, pores 0.02, bars 0.01; length of the main spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Shell thick walled, about twenty times as broad as one mesh. Pores regular, circular, of the same breadth as the bars. Whole surface densely covered with innumerable bristle-shaped by-spines, half as long as the radius; fifty to eighty main spines, conical, nearly as long as the diameter, {220}twice as broad at the base as one pore. (Very similar to some species of Castanella, Pl. 113, but without the osculum characteristic of this Phæodarian; may be easily confounded with it.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3, pores 0.015, bars 0.015; length of the main spines 0.25, basal breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Heliosphæromma, Haeckel.

Shell very thin walled, with thread-like bars and irregular, polygonal pores (having four to eight angles, commonly five to seven); eight to ten on the radius. Radial spines at all the nodal-points of the network, bristle-shaped; forty to sixty main spines, as long as the radius, twice as thick as the numerous by-spines, which are not larger than one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15 to 0.2, pores 0.012 to 0.02, bars 0.001; length of the main spines 0.08 to 0.1.

Shell thin walled, with irregular, polygonal pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Twenty radial main spines, three-sided pyramidal, nearly as long as the diameter of the shell, as broad as a larger mesh; innumerable bristle-shaped by-spines variously distributed on the bars and at the nodal-points of the net; half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the main spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.012.

Shell thick walled. Pores irregular, roundish, with polygonal frames, three to six times as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the radius. Thirty to forty main spines, angular, pyramidal, scarcely as long as the radius and twice as long as the numerous bristle-shaped by-spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.24, pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.002; length of the main spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.012.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Twenty main spines, three-sided pyramidal, somewhat longer than the radius and four times as long as the short bristle-shaped by-spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the main spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.01.

Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, about the same breadth as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Fifty to eighty main spines, conical, as long as the radius; by-spines very numerous, also conical, but only as large as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores and bars 0.006 to 0.008; length of the main spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.012.

Genus 90. Conosphæra,^[124] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 451.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one simple latticed sphere, covered with radial spines having the form of hollow cones with porous walls.

The genus Conosphæra differs from Acanthosphæra in the peculiar formation of the radial spines, which are not simple solid sticks, but hollow cones with porous walls, as immediate elevations of the hollow sphere.

Pores of the shell regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Conical spines about sixty, regular, broader than they are high, with six to nine pores in the wall.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.012, basal breadth 0.024.

Pores of the shell irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the radius. Conical spines about forty, regular, higher than they are broad, as long as the radius, with sixteen to twenty pores in the wall.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.008 to 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Pores of the shell irregular, polygonal, twice to five times as broad as the bars; twenty to twenty-four on the radius. Conical spines about eighty, irregularly formed and scattered, with oblique (not radial) axes; about as high as broad, with eight to twelve pores in the wall.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 91. Coscinomma,^[125] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere, covered with simple radial spines; the pores between them prolonged into hollow, conical, or cylindrical tubuli.

The genus Coscinomma exhibits among the Astrosphærida the same peculiar formation that distinguishes Ethmosphæra and Sethosphæra among the Liosphærida; each pore of the simple shell is prolonged into a short conical or cylindrical tubulus, as a rule either on the outside or on the inside of the shell, but sometimes on both sides.

Subgenus 1. Coscinommarium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores prolonged into short tubes both on the inside as well as the outside of the shell.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars, prolonged on the inside as well as on the outside of the shell into a short truncated conical tube; fifteen to eighteen pores on the radius. In each hexagon-corner arises a bristle-shaped radial spine, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.22, pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.1.

Subgenus 2. Coscinommidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores prolonged into external tubes on the outside of the shell.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars, prolonged on the outside of the shell into a short truncated conical tube; ten to twelve pores on the radius. In each {223}hexagon-corner arises a short bristle-shaped spine, twice as long as the tube, one-third as long as the radius. (Very similar to Ethmosphæra conulosa, Pl. 12, fig. 5, but differs in the possession of radial spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, pores 0.012, bars 0.006; length of the spines 0.04, of the tubes 0.02.

Pores regular, circular, without hexagonal frames, of the same breadth as the bars, prolonged on the outside of the shell into a long cylindrical tube, half as long as the radius (eight to nine pores on the radius); between them bristle-shaped, at the base conical, radial spines of double length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, pores and bars 0.008; length of the spines 0.08, of the tubes 0.04.

Subgenus 3. Coscinommonium, Haeckel.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars (fourteen to sixteen on the radius), prolonged on the inside of the shell into a short truncated cylindrical tube. In each hexagon-corner arises a thin, bristle-shaped, radial spine with pyramidal base, half as long as the radius, twice as long as the tube.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, pores 0.012, bars 0.006; length of the spines 0.066, of the tubes 0.03.

Genus 92. Cladococcus,^[126] J. Müller, 1856, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 485.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere, covered with branched radial spines (the stem of the spine never forked).

The genus Cladococcus, together with the following Elaphococcus, is distinguished from the other Coscinommida by the ramification of the radial spines covering the surface of the simple hollow lattice-sphere. In Cladococcus each spine sends out three or more lateral branches, which are either simple or again ramified; but the stem of the spine itself is not forked, as in Elaphococcus.

Subgenus 1. Cladococcalis, Haeckel.

Definition.—Branches of the spines simple, not ramified. Pores regular, all of nearly equal size and similar form.

Cladococcus arborescens, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 31, Taf. i. fig. 2.

Pores of the spherical shell regular, hexagonal, three times as broad as the bars; three to four on the radius. Ten to twenty spines, three-sided prismatic, two to three times as long as the shell diameter; towards the distal end each spine with three branches (one lateral simple straight branch on each edge of the spine).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.02.

Cladococcus spinifer, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 368, Taf. xiii. fig. 9.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, three times as broad as the bars; five to six on the radius. Radial spines, arising from all the nodal-points of the network, three-sided, longer than the shell diameter, with six to twelve simple verticillate branches (two to four branches on each edge).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1, breadth 0.03.

Pores subregular, hexagonal, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Sixty to eighty radial spines, three-sided prismatic, pencil-shaped, longer than the shell diameter; each at the distal end with a brush or pencil composed of nine to twenty-one short, simple, curved branches (three to seven on each edge).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.12 to 0.16, breadth 0.006.

Subgenus 2. Cladococcinus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Branches of the spines simple, not ramified. Pores irregular, of different size or form.

Pores irregular, polygonal, twice to four times as broad as the bars; five to six on the radius. Forty to fifty radial spines, angular, curved, of variable size and form, with three to nine irregular, simple, blunt curved branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.05; length of the spines 0.1 to 0.18, breadth 0.007.

Pores irregular, roundish, of the same breadth as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Twenty to thirty radial spines, angular, longer than the shell diameter, with thirty to forty simple branches, decreasing in size from the middle part of the spine to the distal end (ten to thirteen branches on each edge).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores and bars 0.007; length of the spines 0.15 to 0.2, breadth 0.004.

Pores irregular, roundish, twice to eight times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. About twenty radial spines, three-sided prismatic, as long as the shell diameter; in the proximal half simple, with smooth edges; in the distal half with three diverging simple branches, half the length of the spine, with dentated edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.004 to 0.016, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.17, breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 3. Cladococcodes, Haeckel.

Definition.—Branches of the spines again ramified. Pores regular, of nearly equal size and similar form.

Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; five to six on the radius. Twenty radial spines, broom-shaped, three times as long as the shell diameter; in the proximal half simple, in the distal half branched, with three to nine branches, which are again ramified; spines and their branches with three smooth edges, not dentated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.055, pores 0.0075, bars 0.0025; length of the spines 0.15, basal thickness 0.007.

Cladococcus viminalis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 369, Taf. xiv. figs. 2, 3.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, four times as broad as the bars; five to six on the radius. Radial spines, arising from all the nodal-points of the network, twice as long as the shell diameter; in the basal half simple, in the distal half with three to six long, thin, curved branches, which are partly forked; three edges of the spines dentated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the radial spines 0.16, basal breadth 0.003.

Cladococcus bifurcus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 368, Taf. xiii. figs. 7, 8.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, four times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Radial spines arising from all the nodal-points, three-sided prismatic, with dentated edges, longer than the shell diameter. On each spine six to nine branches, which are for the most part forked, the distal branches only being simple. (May be regarded as a further developmental stage of Cladococcus spinifer and Cladococcus viminalis.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores 0.01, bars 0.0025; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.003.

Pores regular, circular, polygonally framed, about the same breadth as the bars: two to three on the radius. About twenty radial spines, very large, three to four times as long as the shell diameter, branched like a pine tree, with straight, stout, three-sided prismatic stem; three prominent edges dentated. On each edge five to seven lateral branches, the distal ends of which are simple, the proximal again ramified, with numerous ramules. The figured specimen is a young one, with branches but little developed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.06, pores and bars 0.008; length of the spines 0.2 to 0.25 breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 4. Cladococcurus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Branches of the spines again ramified. Pores irregular, of different size and form.

Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; six to ten on the radius. About twenty radial spines, two to three times as long as the shell diameter, branched like a pine {227}tree, with straight, stout, three-sided pyramidal stem. From the dentated edges arise numerous verticillate branches, the proximal ends of which are thickly ramified. (Differs from the preceding and similar species mainly in the large size and irregular lattice-work of the shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.14, pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.25 to 0.4, breadth 0.012.

Pores irregular, polygonal, twice to eight times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. About twenty radial spines, three-sided prismatic, twice as long as the shell diameter; in the proximal half simple, with smooth edges; in the distal half with three diverging curved branches, which bifurcate two to three times or ramify irregularly. (Closely related to the simpler Cladococcus quadricuspis.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, pores 0.04 to 0.016, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.3, breadth 0.012.

Pores irregular, roundish, once to five times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. About twenty radial spines, very stout, longer than the shell diameter, with three wing-like, prominent smooth edges. At the middle, or in the distal half, each spine bears a verticil of three strong, irregularly formed ramified branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, pores 0.003 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.16 to 0.2, breadth 0.02.

Pores irregular, roundish, with denticulate margin, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to twelve on the radius. Fifty to eighty radial spines, three-sided prismatic, with elegantly denticulated edges; in the proximal two-thirds simple, in the distal third with a bunch of ten to twenty short simple spines (three to seven on each edge).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16 to 0.2, pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.01.

Genus 93. Elaphococcus,^[127] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one simple lattice-sphere, covered with forked or dichotomously branched radial spines (the stem of the spine always forked).

The genus Elaphococcus differs from the preceding Cladococcus in the mode of ramification of the radial spines. These are forked; and the forked branches are either simple, again forked, or dichotomously ramified.

Subgenus 1. Elaphococcinus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form.

Pores of the spherical shell regular, hexagonal, four times as broad as the bars; four to five on the radius. Radial spines, arising from all the nodal-points of the network, cylindrical, as long as the radius, simply forked at the distal end; both branches half as long as the undivided part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, pores 0.01, bars 0.0025; length of the spines 0.04, breadth 0.004.

Cladococcus cervicornis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 370, Taf. xiv. figs. 4-6.

Pores regular, hexagonal, ten to twenty times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Fifty to ninety radial spines (or more), arising not only from the nodal-points of the network but also from the bars between them. Each spine is cylindrical, longer than the shell diameter, and repeatedly forked (three to six times), having, therefore, numerous (thirty to sixty or more) curved branches. The distal ends of all branches fall in one spherical face.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.07 to 0.09, pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.001 to 0.015; length of the spines 0.1 to 0.15, breadth 0.005.

Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, three to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. At each nodal-point of the hexagon arises a short bristle-shaped, simple by-spine. In addition, there arise from the bars thirty to sixty large main spines, longer than the shell diameter, repeatedly forked in the same way as in the preceding species.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, pores 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.12, breadth 0.002.

Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Twenty to forty straight cylindrical spines, as long as the shell diameter, having at the distal end a regular {229}umbel composed of nine to twelve curved branches of equal length, which are again ramified and resemble the inflorescence of an umbelliferous plant, the distal ends of all ramules falling in a spherical face.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, pores 0.006, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.14, breadth 0.002.

Subgenus 2. Elaphococculus, Haeckel.

Pores irregular, polygonal, twice to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Thirty to sixty radial spines cylindrical, curved, as long as the shell diameter, simply forked at the distal end; both branches one-third as long as the undivided part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, pores 0.007 to 0.015, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.004.

Pores irregular, roundish, or polygonal, twice to five times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Forty to sixty radial spines cylindrical, curved, as long as the shell radius, having at the distal end an irregular umbel, composed of six to twelve short branches, which are irregularly ramified or forked. (Differs from the regular Elaphococcus umbellifer mainly in the irregularity.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, pores 0.007 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.12, breadth 0.01.

Pores irregular, roundish, little broader than the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Eighty to one hundred and twenty (or more) radial spines, cylindrical, three to four times as long as the shell diameter, irregularly forked or repeatedly dichotomous (each spine with forty to sixty forked branches); the distal ends of all branches fall in a spherical plane. (Differs from the regular Elaphococcus cervicornis mainly in the irregularity.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, pores and bars 0.003 to 0.008; length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, breadth 0.01.

Subfamily Haliommida,^[128] Haeckel.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with two concentric spherical lattice-shells, united by radial beams.

Genus 94. Haliomma,^[129] Ehrenberg, 1838, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 128.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one medullary (intracapsular) and one cortical (extracapsular) shell, which are connected by radial beams, piercing the central capsule. Shell surface covered with simple radial spines of the same kind.

The genus Haliomma, one of the oldest known Radiolarian genera, contained in the catalogue of its discoverer, Ehrenberg, a large number of very different Sphærellaria, belonging to at least sixteen different genera. We limit here the conception of the genus to those Haliommida which bear simple radial spines of one kind on the surface of the cortical shell (the latter being separated from the medullary shell by the central capsule).

Subgenus 1. Haliommantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; spines on the whole surface (commonly one spine at each nodal-point).

Cortical shell four times as broad as the medullary shell, both having very thin thread-like bars, and regular, hexagonal pores (eighteen to twenty on the radius of the outer, five to six on the radius of the inner shell). The two shells connected by twenty thin thread-like radial beams. At each nodal-point of the outer shell arises a bristle-shaped radial spine, half as long as the radius. (Similar to Heliosoma radians, Pl. 28, fig. 3, but with all the spines equal.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.05; pores of the outer 0.015, of the inner 0.01; length of the spines 0.05.

Cortical shell three times as broad as the medullary shell; pores of the former regular, hexagonal, with very thin thread-like bars (fourteen to sixteen on the radius); pores of the latter regular, {231}circular, three times as broad as the bars (four to five on the radius). The two shells connected by about forty radial beams. At each nodal-point of the outer shell arises one bristle-shaped radial spine, twice as long as the diameter of one hexagonal mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; pores of the outer 0.012, of the inner 0.006; length of the spines 0.025.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Medullary shell with simple, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars. At each nodal-point of the outer shell arises a short triangular spine three times as long as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.04; pores of the former 0.01, of the latter 0.005; bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.015.

Cortical shell thin walled, nearly twice as broad as the medullary shell, and connected with it by forty to sixty thin radial beams. Both shells of the same perfectly regular structure, with an identical number of regular, circular pores, which are hexagonally framed, four times as broad as the bars, nine to eleven on the radius. The outer pores are twice as broad as the inner, exactly corresponding pores. Between every three pores of the outer surface (in each corner of the cortical hexagon) arises one short three-sided pyramidal spine, twice as long as the diameter of one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, of the inner 0.11; pores of the former 0.018, of the latter 0.009; length of the spines 0.04.

Habitat.—South Atlantic (Tristan da Cunha), Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms.

Melitomma formosum, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas, loc. cit.

Cortical shell thick walled, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular pores of very elegant structure, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. The inner opening of each pore is simple, circular, the outer regular, six-lobed; corresponding to the six lobes are six short conical spines, which arise from the six corners of the regular hexagonal frames separating the pores. Pores of the medullary shell simple, circular, of the same breadth as the bars. The two shells connected only by six radial beams (in three dimensive axes).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.17, of the inner 0.07; pores of the former 0.012, of the latter 0.004; length of the spines 0.005 to 0.01.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, rosette-shaped pores, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. The regular structure of the elegant pores is the same as in the preceding species, but without prominent crested frames (fig. 1b). Also the medullary shell (fig. 1a) is different, much thinner and smaller, with simple, circular pores, which are three times as broad as the bars. The two shells are connected by numerous (twenty?) radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, of the inner 0.05; pores of the former 0.01, of the latter 0.005; length of the spines 0.005 to 0.02.

Haliomma castanea, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 428, Taf. xxiv. fig. 4.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell; pores of both regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars (seven to eight on the radius of the outer, four to five on the radius of the inner shell), the two connected by six to twelve (?) strong radial beams. Radial spines bristle-shaped, with conical bases, twice as long as the diameter of the cortical pores (one spine at the nodal-point between every three pores).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1 to 0.15, inner 0.03 to 0.05; pores of the former 0.005, of the latter 0.003; length of the spines 0.005 to 0.01.

Haliomma horridum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 87, Taf. i. fig. 10.

Cortical shell thick walled, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, of the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Radial spines conical, stout, nearly half as long as the radius. (Differs from the closely allied Haliomma castanea in the smaller pores and larger spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14, of the inner 0.06; pores of the former 0.004, of the latter 0.02.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Sicily; living in the Atlantic, Station 9, depth 3150 fathoms, and Station 353, depth 2965 fathoms.

Cortical shell thin walled, only one and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, both having regular, circular pores, four to six times as broad as the bars (five to six on the radius of the outer, three to four on the radius of the inner shell), the two connected by numerous (forty to sixty?) thin, short, radial beams. Radial spines conical, twice as long as the diameter of one cortical pore, arising from all the nodal-points between them.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.08 to 0.12, inner 0.06 to 0.08; pores of the former 0.015 to 0.02, of the latter 0.007 to 0.012; length of the spines 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Haliommetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; the spines not covering the entire surface, but scattered at intervals (their number smaller than that of the nodal-points of the network).

Cortical shell very delicate, with thin thread-like bars, and regular, hexagonal pores, little larger than the thick-walled medullary shell (= 7 : 6). Pores of the latter regular, circular, double-edged, with hexagonal frames, of the same breadth as the bars; from all the hexagon-corners arise thin bristle-shaped, radial spines, twice as long as the diameter of the pores, becoming connected at equal distances from the centre by tangential threads, regularly disposed, forming the cortical shell. Twelve strong, three-sided pyramidal, radial spines, as broad at the base as one mesh, and about half as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14, of the inner 0.12; pores of the former 0.012, of the latter 0.005; length of the radial spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.012.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Both shells with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius of the outer, five to six on the radius of the inner shell. Twelve conical, regularly disposed radial spines, as long as the radius, and as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, of the inner 0.04; pores of the former 0.005, of the latter 0.002; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.005.

Haliomma megaporum, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 313.

Cortical shell thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell; the pores regular, circular, three to four on the radius, eight times as broad as the bars, quite as broad as the medullary shell, the pores of which are much smaller, twice as broad as the bars. Eight radial spines regularly disposed, conical, as long as the radius. (As the diagnosis of Ehrenberg is very {234}incomplete, and no figure is given with it, it remains doubtful whether his Mediterranean species be identical with my Atlantic variety.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, of the inner 0.04; pores of the former 0.04, of the latter 0.008; length of the spines 0.06.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Grecian shore); North Atlantic, Station 354, surface.

Haliomma oculatum, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxviii. figs. 2, 3.

Cortical shell thick walled, four times as broad as the medullary shell; its pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars, six to eight on the radius. Pores of the medullary shell regular, hexagonal, with very thin bars, three to four on the radius. Nine radial spines, regularly disposed, conical, as long as the radius, as broad at the base as one cortical pore. (In the specimen figured by Ehrenberg, only two spines were preserved, seven being accidentally broken off.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, of the inner 0.04; pores of the former 0.01, of the latter 0.005.

Cortical shell thick walled, four times as broad as the dark medullary shell, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Nine radial spines regularly disposed, three sided pyramidal, as long as the radius, as broad at the base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, of the inner 0.03; cortical pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the radial spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.012.

Haliomma tenuispinum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 39, Taf. iv. fig. 9.

Haliomma tenuispinum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 431.

Cortical shell thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Both shells with very fine, thread-like bars, and regular, hexagonal pores; five to seven on the radius. Twenty radial spines, very thin, bristle-shaped, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, of the inner 0.04; pores of the former 0.016, of the latter 0.006.

Haliomma longispinum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 39, Taf iv. fig. 8.

Haliomma longispinum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 431.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the dark medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; four to six on the radius. Twenty radial spines, very long, regularly disposed, four to five times as long as the diameter of the shell, three-sided prismatic, with elegantly dentated edges, as broad as one cortical mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.08, of the inner 0.03; pores of the former 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4.

Cortical shell thick walled, twice as broad as the medullary shell, both with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius of the outer, four to six on the radius of the inner shell. Forty to sixty radial spines, conical, as long as the radius, as broad as one cortical pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, of the inner 0.05; pores of the former 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.006, basal breadth 0.012.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the dark medullary shell, with regular, circular, double-edged pores, of the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Thirty to fifty radial spines, three-sided pyramidal, half as long as the radius, with three denticulated edges. (Very similar to Actinomma denticulatum, Pl. 29, fig. 3, but with simple medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.04; pores and bars of the former 0.008; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thick walled, five times as broad as the dark medullary shell, with small, regular, circular pores, half as broad as the bars; twenty to twenty-four on the radius. One hundred to one hundred and twenty conical radial spines, five times as long as broad, only half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.4, inner 0.08; pores of the outer 0.006, bars 0.012; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 3. Haliommilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size and form; spines covering the entire surface (commonly one spine at each nodal-point).

Haliomma capillaceum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 426, Taf. xxiii. fig. 2.

Cortical shell very thin walled, seven to eight times as broad as the medullary shell, both with irregular, polygonal pores, and very thin thread-like bars; outer pores twice to three times as broad as the inner. Radial spines very numerous, straight, bristle-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.025 to 0.03; outer pores 0.02 to 0.04, inner 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.001; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.03.

Haliomma erinaceum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 427, Taf. xxiii. figs. 3, 4.

Cortical shell thin walled, seven to eight times as broad as the medullary shell, both with irregular, polygonal pores, two to ten times as broad as the bars, outer pores much larger than the inner. Radial spines very numerous, bristle-shaped, as long as the diameter of the medullary shell, the majority or all being either curved or obliquely depressed, the greater part neither straight nor radial.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.025 to 0.03; outer pores 0.005 to 0.03, inner 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.002 to 0.004; length of the spines 0.03.

Haliomma tenellum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 428.

Haliomma spinuloso affine, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 40, Taf. iv. fig. 7.

Cortical shell thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores, and very thin bars. Pores of the inner shell regular, circular. Radial spines very numerous, bristle-shaped, straight, as long as the radius of the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; outer pores 0.008 to 0.016, inner 0.005; length of the spines 0.07.

Haliomma spinulosum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 39, Taf. iv. fig. 6.

Cortical shell thin walled, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, polygonal pores, and very thin bars. Pores of the inner shell subregular, hexagonal, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars. Radial spines very numerous, bristle-shaped, one-sixth to one-fourth as long as the radius of the outer shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, inner 0.08; outer pores 0.01 to 0.03, inner 0.02; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.03.

Sethosphæra rhodococcus, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas, pl. xix. fig. 6.

Cortical shell very thin walled, little larger than the thick walled medullary shell (= 10 : 9). Pores of the outer shell very irregular, roundish, twice to six times as broad as the bars, about twenty on the radius. Pores of the inner shell twice as broad as the bars, six to eight on the radius, very regular, circular on the inner, six-lobed on the outer opening, separated by prominent hexagonal crests; in the hexagon-corners arise short conical radial spines, which at equal distances from the centre are united by the outer shell, but are prominent over its surface. (A very peculiar form; the two shells may better be regarded as inner and outer cortical shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.18; outer pores 0.04 to 0.012, inner 0.01; length of the spines 0.01.

Habitat.—Tropical Atlantic, Station 338, depth 1990 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Cortical shell thick walled, four times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Pores of the inner shell regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, four to six on the radius. Radial spines very numerous, conical, nearly as long as the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.24, inner 0.06; outer pores 0.008 to 0.02, bars 0.005, inner pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.2.

Subgenus 4. Haliommura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size and form; spines not covering the entire surface, but scattered at intervals (their number smaller than that of the nodal-points in the network).

Cortical shell thin walled, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, polygonal meshes, three to six times as broad as the bars. Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, ten times as broad as the bars. Twenty radial spines, very long, stout, three-sided prismatic, two to four times as long as the diameter of the shell, as broad as one medullary mesh, with three wing-like, denticulated edges. At the base of each spine three supporting curved beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14 to 0.16, of the inner 0.07 to 0.08; outer pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.003; inner pores 0.01, bars 0.001; length of the spines 0.3 to 0.6, breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell very thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, polygonal pores, and very thin thread-like bars. Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, six times as broad as the bars. About forty radial spines, angular, pyramidal, half as long as the radius of the shell, as broad at the base as the largest mesh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, of the inner 0.07; outer pores 0.006 to 0.015, inner 0.008; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.012.

Haliomma wyvillei, Haeckel, 1878, Protistenreich, p. 44, fig. 31.

Haliomma species, Wyville Thomson, 1877, Atlantic, vol. i. p. 236, fig. 54.

Cortical shell thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Both shells with irregular, large, polygonal pores, and very thin bars. From the inner shell arise very numerous (eighty to one hundred and twenty or more) radial spines, which pierce the outer shell, and are outside it, as long as the radius of the inner shell, straight, bristle-shaped, and as thick as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.18, of the inner 0.06; pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.001 to 0.002; length of the free spines 0.06.

Haliomma beroes, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvB. B. iv. fig. 19.

Haliomma beroes, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 434.

Cortical shell thin walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Inner shell with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Both shells connected by four (or six ?) radial beams, perpendicularly crossed. Thirty to forty radial spines, conical, thin, shorter than the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, inner 0.04; outer pores 0.007 to 0.012, inner 0.005; length of the spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.005.

Cortical shell very thick walled, four times as broad as the thin walled medullary shell; pores of the former irregular, roundish, with high polygonal frames of very different size, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Inner shell with simple, small, polygonal pores, connected with the outer shell by eight (?) regularly disposed thin radial beams, opposite in pairs, prolonged outside into strong conical spines, longer than the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.08, inner 0.02; outer pores 0.005 to 0.01, inner 0.005; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.012.

Cortical shell thick walled, six times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish, double-edged pores, three to six times as broad as the bars. Inner shell with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. One hundred and twenty to one hundred and fifty radial spines, conical, only one-fourth as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.42, inner 0.07; outer pores 0.012 to 0.025, bars 0.004; inner pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, four times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Inner shell also with irregular, roundish pores, of half the size. Forty to fifty radial spines, cylindro-conical, about as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.24, inner 0.06; outer pores 0.012 to 0.02, bars 0.006; inner pores 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.3, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores little larger than the bars; eight to twelve on the radius. Inner shell with similar but smaller pores. About twenty radial spines, club-shaped, as long as the radius, three-sided, with prominent edges, twice as broad at the distal end as at the base. (Similar to Acanthosphæra clavata, Pl. 26, fig. 8, but differs from it in the possession of a medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.06; outer pores and bars 0.008 to 0.02, inner 0.006 to 0.01; length of the spines 0.1, distal breadth 0.03.

Genus 95. Heliosoma,^[130] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with one medullary (intracapsular) and one cortical (extracapsular) shell, the two being connected by radial beams piercing the central capsule. Shell surface covered with simple radial spines of two different kinds; larger main spines and smaller by-spines.

The genus Heliosoma differs from the preceding Haliomma in the possession of two different kinds of radial spines, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Heliosphæra bears to Acanthosphæra among the Coscinommida. The smaller by-spines are much more numerous than the larger main spines.

Subgenus 1. Heliosomantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form.

Cortical shell very thin walled, with thread-like bars and regular, hexagonal meshes; twenty to twenty-two on the radius. Medullary shell only one-fifth as large, of the same structure. The two shells connected by twenty very thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twenty stout, three-sided pyramidal main spines, as long as the diameter of the inner shell. Between these, arising from the surface, numerous bristle-shaped by-spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.25, inner 0.05, pores 0.012; length of the main spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.012.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Medullary shell half as large, with simple, regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. The two shells connected by twenty very thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twenty slender, three-sided pyramidal main spines as long as the radius. In each corner of the surface hexagons a bristle-shaped by-spine one-fourth as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.06; outer pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the main spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.01.

Haliomma echinaster, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 429, Taf. xxiv. figs. 1-3.

Cortical shell thin walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Medullary shell one-fourth as large, with few irregular, large, {241}polygonal pores and very thin thread-like bars, connected with the former by nine similar thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into nine pyramidal main spines, as long as the radius. From each corner of the surface hexagon arises a bristle-shaped by-spine, half as long as the main spine.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, inner 0.04; outer pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the main spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the radius. Medullary shell one-third as large, of the same structure. Twelve radial main spines, regularly disposed, cylindro-conical, longer than the shell diameter, as broad as two pores. Whole surface covered with short conical by-spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.05; outer pores and bars 0.007; length of the main spines 0.2, breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Heliosomura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size and form.

Cortical shell very thin walled, with large, irregular, polygonal meshes, three to six times as broad as the bars; four to six on the radius. Medullary shell one-third as large, with small, regular, circular pores. The two shells connected by twelve regularly disposed radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twelve very stout three-sided pyramidal main spines, somewhat longer than the radius, spear-shaped; each of the three wings in the middle part with one tooth. Scattered on the surface numerous by-spines of the same form, half as long and only one-fourth as broad.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, inner 0.033; outer pores 0.006 to 0.013, inner pores 0.002, bars 0.002; length of the main spines 0.06, breadth 0.015.

Cortical shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times as broad as the bars. Medullary shell of the same structure, only one-fourth as large. Thirty to forty conical main spines, as long as the radius; between them numerous bristle-shaped by-spines, only half as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.05; outer pores 0.004 to 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the main spines 0.1, breadth 0.01.

Genus 96. Elatomma,^[131] n. gen.

The genus Elatomma differs from Haliomma in the ramification of the radial spines, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Cladococcus, among the Coscinommida, bears to Acanthosphæra.

Subgenus 1. Elatommella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars. From its surface arise twenty to thirty large, three-sided prismatic, radial spines as long as the shell diameter, branched like a pine tree; on each edge of the spine five to six ramified branches, decreasing in size towards the distal end. Similar to Cladococcus pinetum (Pl. 27, figs. 1, 3), but differing in the possession of a medullary shell (one-third as large as the outer), with regular, circular pores, as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.07; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.2 to 0.24.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars, connected with the medullary shell by twenty thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twenty large cylindrical radial spines somewhat longer than the radius; in the proximal half simple, in the distal half with six to nine dichotomous, irregular branches. Similar to Cladococcus scoparius (Pl. 27, fig. 2), but much larger, and with a large medullary shell (one-third as broad as the outer), and regular, circular pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.08.

Subgenus 2. Elatommura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form.

Cortical shell thin walled, with regular, polygonal, or roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars, connected with the small medullary shell by about twenty thin radial beams. Inner shell only one-eighth as broad as the outer, with few irregular, polygonal meshes. Surface covered with very numerous (one hundred to one hundred and fifty or more) branched conical radial spines, one-third as long as the shell radius, with six to twelve short lateral branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.08 to 0.016, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.04.

Cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, polygonal pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars, connected with the medullary shell by twenty (or more?) very thin beams. These are prolonged outside into twenty straight, three-sided prismatic, radial spines as long as the radius, with a brush-like bunch of six to nine short, irregularly ramified branches at the end. Medullary shell very delicate (half as broad as the outer), with regular, hexagonal meshes and thread-like bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, inner 0.08; length of the spines 0.08.

Cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, polygonal, or roundish meshes, twice to six times as broad as the bars; the medullary shell of the same structure, half as broad, with smaller irregular pores. Forty to sixty curved, three-sided, radial spines, as long as the shell, with a bunch of very irregular, curved, and partly ramified branches at the distal end.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, inner 0.1; length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.01.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Gulf Stream, Færöe Channel, surface, John Murray.

Genus 97. Leptosphæra,^[132] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with two extracapsular cortical shells without by-spines, connected by long prismatic radial spines.

The genus Leptosphæra, together with the three following genera, forms the very peculiar and typical small group of Sphæroidea which we call the Diplosphærida (with four genera and twenty-four species); their shell is composed of two concentric spheres as in the three foregoing genera; but whilst in these the inner shell is an intracapsular medullary shell and the outer an extracapsular cortical shell, in the Diplosphærida {244}both shells are extracapsular or cortical shells, therefore the inner shell of the latter corresponds to the outer of the former. The inner spherical shell of all Diplosphærida is composed of very delicate beams and large pores, which are either regular hexagonal or irregular polygonal (never roundish). From its surface arise a variable number (twenty to thirty) of stout long radial spines, which are invariably longer than the shell diameter (often two to three times as long or more), and of three-sided prismatic form, the three edges either smooth or serrate, often with three rows of lateral branches (commonly three to five branches in each row); the latter are invariably of the same form, concavely curved towards the spine, and decrease in size towards the distal end. From the three edges of each main spine in all Diplosphærida, at equal distances from the centre, arise six very thin, thread-like lateral branches (a pair from each edge) and connect the spine in a tangential direction with all neighbouring spines. In this manner the polyhedral outer shell is formed, the meshes of which therefore are always very large and triangular. Sometimes each of these primary triangular meshes becomes filled up with a secondary network, either of regular quadrangular or of irregular polygonal secondary meshes. Besides the constant twenty to thirty large main spines, in the majority of Diplosphærida bristle-shaped radial by-spines arise, either from the inner shell (Diplosphæra) or from the outer (Drymosphæra), or from both (Astrosphæra). They are absent only in Leptosphæra. Commonly the by-spines are simple, rarely forked or branched. The central capsule in the Diplosphærida is usually enclosed in the inner shell; often it completely fills up the latter, or drives out a cæcal protuberance through each mesh; but these processes rarely unite outside. The average size of the Diplosphærida, which are all pelagic organisms, is much larger than that of the other Haliommida.

Subgenus 1. Leptosphærella, Haeckel.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, and very thin, thread-like bars; outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial spines with three smooth edges. (Fig. 2 represents the central capsule with numerous club-shaped saccules, prominent externally through the meshes; in the centre a large simple spherical nucleus, one-third as broad as the capsule. The skeleton of this species is identical with that of Diplosphæra hexagonalis, Pl. 19, fig. 3, but has no by-spines.)

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean (Corfu), North Atlantic (Canary Islands), Tropical Pacific, surface.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, five to six times as broad as the bars; outer shell three times as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial spines with three serrated edges (of the same form as the main spines of Drymosphæra dendrophora, Pl. 20, fig. 1).

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial spines with three smooth edges. (Resembles Drymosphæra polygonalis, Pl. 19, fig. 1, but has no by-spines.)

Subgenus 2. Leptosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines with three rows of lateral branches (one row on each edge).

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; outer shell three times as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial spines with smooth edges and three rows of simple, smooth, curved, lateral branches (six branches on each edge), similar to those of Diplosphæra gracilis.

Diplosphæra spinosa, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 40, Taf. v. fig. 2.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, five times as broad as the bars; outer shell three times as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial spines with three densely serrated edges, and with three rows of serrated, simple, curved, lateral branches (three branches on each edge). Differs from the preceding in the thicker bars and the elegantly denticulated spines and branches.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, six times as broad as the bars, each bar crossed by a transverse tangential rod, so that each mesh represents an elegant six-rayed star (as {246}in Astrosphæra stellata, Pl. 19, fig. 5, but without radial by-spines); outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial spines with serrated edges and three rows of simple lateral branches (four branches on each edge).

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; outer shell four times as broad, also with irregular, polygonal meshes, the sides of the triangular main meshes being connected by irregular lateral ramules, forming an extremely delicate reticulum.

Genus 98. Diplosphæra,^[133] Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 804.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with two extracapsular cortical shells, connected by long, prismatic, radial spines; inner shell with thin radial by-spines.

The genus Diplosphæra differs from its ancestral form Leptosphæra in the development of radial by-spines on the surface of the inner shell, the outer shell being smooth.

Subgenus 1. Diplosphærella, Haeckel.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; at each nodal-point one bristle-shaped by-spine; outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial spines with three smooth edges. (The radially striped central capsule, enclosed in the inner shell, envelops a large central nucleus one-third its size, fig. 3.)

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, four times as broad as the bars; outer shell three times as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial main spines as well as the bars of both {247}shells very elegantly denticulated; radial by-spines (very numerous in the surface of the inner shell) smooth.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, six times as broad as the bars; at each nodal-point one radial by-spine; outer shell two and a half times as broad, with very delicate square meshes, separated by thread-like bars which arise from the sides of the triangular main meshes. Radial main spines with three serrated edges. (Differs from the similar Diplosphæra gracilis in the simple main spines, with delicate dentition of the edges.)

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars, covered with very numerous bristle-shaped by-spines; outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes. Radial main spines with three smooth edges.

Subgenus 2. Diplosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial main spines with three rows of lateral branches (one row on each edge).

Diplosphæra gracilis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 354, Taf. x. fig. 1.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes and very thin bars; at each nodal-point one simple bristle-shaped radial by-spine; outer shell twice as broad, with very delicate square meshes, separated by thread-like bars which arise from the sides of the triangular main meshes. Radial spines with smooth edges and with three rows of simple curved lateral branches (four to six branches on each edge).

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, four times as broad as the bars; at each nodal-point is a simple bristle-shaped by-spine; outer shell three times as broad, with simple triangular meshes. {248}Radial spines very strong, with dentated edges and with three rows of lateral branches (six dentated curved branches on each edge).

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, five times as broad as the bars, which are densely covered with very numerous, simple bristle-shaped by-spines; outer shell four times as broad, with very numerous small irregular polygonal meshes, forming a very delicate network, and filling out the large triangular main meshes. Radial spines with three serrated edges and three rows of short curved branches (four to five branches on each edge).

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Gulf Stream, Færöe Channel, surface, John Murray.

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; outer shell three times as broad, with similar irregular polygonal meshes, filling out the large triangular main meshes. Radial spines with three serrated edges, each of which bears one single large lateral branch, concavely curved towards the distal end. By-spines of the inner shell very numerous.

Genus 99. Drymosphæra,^[134] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with two extracapsular cortical shells, connected by long prismatic, radial spines; outer shell with thin radial by-spines.

The genus Drymosphæra differs from its ancestral form Leptosphæra in the development of radial by-spines on the surface of the outer shell, the inner shell being smooth.

Subgenus 1. Drymosphærella, Haeckel.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes and thin thread-like bars, which bear very numerous, {249}bristle-shaped radial by-spines. Radial main spines with three smooth edges. (Differs from the first species of the other three genera of Diplosphærida in the presence of by-spines on the outer, and their absence on the inner shell.)

Diplosphæra polygonalis, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas.

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; outer shell one and a half times as broad, with simple triangular meshes and thicker bars, which bear numerous bristle-shaped radial by-spines (in the figure the majority of these are broken off). Radial main spines with three smooth edges. (Similar to Leptosphæra polygonalis and Diplosphæra polygonalis, but differs from both in the presence of by-spines on the outer, and their absence on the inner shell.)

Subgenus 2. Drymosphæromma, Haeckel.

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes and thin bars, the former five times as broad as the latter; outer shell two and a half times as broad, with simple triangular meshes and smooth bars, bearing numerous long smooth bristle-shaped by-spines, which in the distal half are forked. Radial main spines with three smooth edges.

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes, three to six times as broad as the smooth bars; outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes and very thin smooth bars, bearing numerous curved, irregularly branched, smooth by-spines. Radial main spines with three serrated edges.

Inner shell with irregular, polygonal meshes and very thin thread-like bars; outer shell one and a half times as broad, with simple triangular meshes and thicker bars, which bear a forest of {250}very numerous, repeatedly dichotomous or irregularly branched, curved by-spines, longer than the diameter of the outer shell. Radial main spines with three dentated edges. All parts of the skeleton, the net bars as well as the radial beams and spines, are very elegantly denticulated (fig. 1b). The central capsule (fig. 1a) completely distends the inner shell and forces out protuberances through all its pores; in its centre lies a nucleus one-third its size.

Genus 100. Astrosphæra,^[135] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with two extracapsular cortical shells, connected by long, prismatic, radial spines; inner and outer shell with thin radial by-spines.

The genus Astrosphæra differs from its ancestral form, Leptosphæra, in the development of radial by-spines on the surface of both shells.

Subgenus 1. Astrosphærella, Haeckel.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes and very thin bars, having a bristle-shaped, short radial by-spine in each hexagon-corner; outer shell twice as broad, with simple triangular meshes and thicker bars, bearing one row of simple bristle-shaped, curved, radial by-spines. Radial main spines with three smooth edges.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, four times as broad as the bars, and covered with numerous curved, long, bristle-shaped by-spines; outer shell three times as broad, with simple triangular meshes and thin bars, bearing a row of very long, curved, bristle-shaped by-spines. Radial main spines with three dentated edges. All parts of the skeleton elegantly denticulated, as in Drymosphæra dendrophora (Pl. 20, fig. 1).

Subgenus 2. Astrosphæromma.

Definition.—Radial main spines with three rows of lateral branches (one row on each edge).

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, six times as broad as the bars, and covered with numerous short bristle-shaped by-spines; outer shell four times as broad, with simple triangular meshes, and rows of long bristle-shaped by-spines arising from the bars. Radial main spines with three serrated edges and three rows of lateral branches (four branches on each edge).

Diplosphæra stellata, Haeckel, 1881, Prodrom. et Atlas.

Inner shell with regular, hexagonal, six-rayed meshes, each bar being crossed by a transverse tangential rod, at each nodal-point a long bristle-shaped by-spine; outer shell three times as broad, with simple triangular meshes and denticulated thin bars, bearing a row of bristle-shaped radial by-spines. Radial main spines in the proximal half with three serrated edges, in the distal half with three rows of curved lateral branches (five branches on each edge).

Subfamily Actinommida,^[136] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 440 (sensu emendato).

Definition.—Astrosphærida with three concentric, spherical, lattice-shells, united by radial beams.

Genus 101. Actinomma,^[137] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 440.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and numerous simple radial spines of one kind.

The genus Actinomma is here restricted to those Sphæroidea which combine the possession of three concentric lattice-shells with numerous radial spines on the surface; the spines are all simple, being of one and the same kind. Commonly two of the three shells are intracapsular medullary shells, connected by radial beams (piercing {252}the central capsule) with the outer, extracapsular, cortical shell. But in some species only one medullary shell is enclosed in the central capsule, whilst both other shells lie outside it. In such case the distance between these two cortical shells is much smaller than their distance from the simple internal medullary shell. These forms correspond more to aculeate Rhodosphæræ, whilst the others resemble aculeate Thecosphæræ.

Subgenus 1. Actinommantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; spines on the entire surface (commonly one spine at each nodal-point).

Cortical shell, as well as both medullary shells, very thin walled, with regular, hexagonal pores and thread-like bars between them. Pores of the outer shell twice as broad as those of the middle, and three times as broad as those of the inner shells. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 9; about twenty thin radial beams between them. At each nodal-point of the surface arises one bristle-shaped radial spine, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, middle 0.07, inner 0.025; meshes of the cortical shell 0.01; length of the spines 0.05.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars. Pores of both medullary shells regular, circular. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4; about forty thin radial beams between them. At each nodal-point of the surface arises one short, three-sided pyramidal, radial spine, about one-third as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, middle 0.08, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.015.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, six-lobed pores, twice as broad as the bars. At each nodal-point of the surface is one short conical radial spine, as long as the diameter of the pores; one corresponding to each lobe, and there is therefore around each pore a regular corona of six spines, as in Haliomma lirianthus (Pl. 28, fig. 1b). Both medullary shells with simple, circular, regular pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2.5 : 7; radial beams between them only six, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.075, inner 0.003; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.01.

Cortical shell as well as both medullary shells thick walled, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; between them at each nodal-point one bristle-shaped radial spine, one-third as long as the radius, with conical base. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 2 : 3 : 8; only six radial beams between them (opposed in pairs in the three dimensive axes).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.06, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.025.

Actinomma entactinia, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 93, Taf. ii. fig. 12.

Cortical shell as well as both medullary shells thick walled, with regular, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8; radial beams between them very numerous (thirty to fifty or more?). Entire surface covered with short thick conical spines, only one-fifth as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores and bars 0.007; length of the spines 0.015.

Subgenus 2. Actinommetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the outer shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form; spines not over the entire surface, but scattered at intervals (their number smaller than that of the nodal-points).

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with simple, circular, regular pores, of the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 2 : 5 : 9; radial beams between them twenty, prolonged outside into twenty symmetrically disposed, three-sided pyramidal spines, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.18, middle 0.1, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.012.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular, double-edged pores, twice as broad as the bars. Forty to fifty radial spines, three-sided pyramidal, half as long as the radius, with three elegantly denticulated edges. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 5. (Differs from Haliomma denticulatum only in the double medullary shell and larger size.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14, middle 0.06, inner 0.03; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.01.

Actinomma trinacrium, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 441, Taf. xxiv. figs. 6-8.

Haliomma trinacrium, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 815.

Cortical shell as well as both medullary shells thin walled, with subregular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 9; radial beams between them twenty, prolonged outside into strong, three-sided pyramidal spines, as long as the radius; between them, on the surface, numerous similar spines. Sometimes the latter remain smaller, the pores more irregular, and then this species corresponds to Echinomma trinacrium.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.09, middle 0.03, inner 0.01; cortical pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell very thick walled, with regular, circular, double-edged pores, twice as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with simple, small, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4; radial spines about twenty, conical, shorter than the radius, prolonged inside into twenty very thin connecting beams (fig. 4).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.08, middle 0.04, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.01; bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 3. Actinommilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size and form; spines over the entire surface (commonly one spine at each nodal-point).

Actinomma spinigerum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 92, Taf. ii. fig. 10.

Cortical shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish, or subcircular pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8; between them eight (?) {255}connecting radial beams. Entire surface densely covered with small conical spines, not larger than the pores.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.17, middle 0.07, inner 0.023; cortical pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.01.

Cortical shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, about the same breadth as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 8; between them numerous (twenty to thirty or more) cylindrical connecting beams. Entire surface densely covered with innumerable small bristle-shaped spines, as long as the diameter of the inner shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.25, middle 0.06, inner 0.03; cortical pores and bars 0.004 to 0.008; length of the spines 0.03.

Subgenus 4. Actinommura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size and form; spines not over the entire surface, but scattered at intervals (their number smaller than that of the nodal-points).

Cortical shell very thin walled, with irregular, polygonal meshes (sixteen to eighteen on the radius), three to six times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with smaller pores of the same structure. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2.5 : 7; radial connecting beams between them very thin and numerous (one hundred and twenty to one hundred and fifty or more), each prolonged outside into a short three-sided pyramidal spine, as long as the radius of the inner shell. (Similar to Haliomma capillaceum.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.27, middle 0.1, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.005.

Cortical shell very thin walled, with irregular, polygonal meshes, ten to twenty times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the radius. Both medullary shells with similar delicate network. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6; numerous thin radial beams (forty to eighty or more) connect both medullary shells and alternate with other beams, which arise from arcade-shaped {256}protuberances of the outer medullary shell, and connect it with the cortical shell. Outer prolongations of these form the bristle-shaped spines of the surface.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, middle 0.09, inner 0.04; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.001 to 0.002; length of the radial spines 0.2.

Actinomma schwageri, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 92, Taf. ii. fig. 9a, b.

Cortical shell thick walled, with irregular, large, polygonal meshes, five to twelve times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Both medullary shells with very small, circular, regular pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 9; connecting radial beams between them nine, prolonged outside into nine short stout, three-sided pyramidal spines, as long as the diameter of the inner shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.17, middle 0.04, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.006 and less; length of the spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish pores, three to six times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three shells = 1 : 2.5 : 7; connecting radial beams between them twelve, regularly disposed, prolonged outside into twelve strong, three-sided pyramidal spines, as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14, middle 0.05, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.008 to 0.018, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.08, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell very thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 12. Both medullary shells of similar irregular structure, connected with the cortical shell by twelve regularly disposed radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twelve short stout conical spines, as long as the diameter of the middle shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.25, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.05, breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, little larger than the outer medullary shell, whilst the inner is only one-tenth as large. Pores of all three shells irregular, roundish, or subcircular, twice to three times {257}as broad as the bars, on an average twice as large in the outer and middle as in the inner shell. Sixty to eighty short conical radial spines on the surface, about as long as the diameter of the inner shell, and one-fourth as broad at the base. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 9 : 10.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.4 to 0.5, middle 0.35 to 0.45, inner 0.05 to 0.06.

Genus 102. Echinomma,^[138] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with three concentric lattice-spheres and numerous simple radial spines of two different kinds; larger main spines and smaller by-spines.

The genus Echinomma, differs from its ancestral form, Actinomma, in the differentiation of the radial spines. Whilst a large number of small by-spines cover the entire surface, a smaller number of large main spines are scattered over it, or limited to certain regularly distributed points. It represents Heliosoma among the Haliommida.

Subgenus 1. Echinommetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form.

Cortical shell thin walled, with regular, hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 5. Surface covered with short bristle-shaped by-spines (one in every hexagon-corner); twenty main spines regularly disposed, three-sided pyramidal, as long as the diameter of the inner shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.1, middle 0.045, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the main spines 0.02, breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thin walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. Both medullary shells with simple, circular pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6. Surface covered with short bristle-shaped by-spines, half as long as the forty to fifty main spines, which are three-sided pyramidal, and reach the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.18, middle 0.06, inner 0.03; cortical pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the main spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.015.

Actinomma aculeatum, Stöhr, 1880 Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 92, Taf. ii. fig. 11.

Cortical shell thick walled with regular circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 8. Surface covered with short conical by-spines about twenty strong main spines, three-sided pyramidal, one-third as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.16, middle 0.04, inner 0.02; cortical pores and bars 0.003; length of the main spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.013.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily and Barbados; living in the Atlantic, Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms.

Cortical shell thick walled with regular circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the radius. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 11. Surface covered with short bristle-shaped by-spines one third as long as the twelve stout conical main spines, which reach in length the radius, and lie opposite in pairs in six axes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.22, middle 0.06, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.006, bars 0.003 length of the main spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Echinommura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different size or form.

Actinomma sphærechinus, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xxix. fig. 2).

Cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times as broad as the bars; five to seven on the radius. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 4. Surface covered with thirty to fifty pyramidal main spines, as long as the diameter of the inner shell, and with numerous small conical by-spines of half the length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.11, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.004; length of the main spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.005.

Actinomma trinacrium, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 441, Taf. xxiv. figs. 6-8.

Cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores. Radial proportion of the three spheres {259}= 1 : 3 : 9. On the surface about twenty three-sided pyramidal main spines, as long as the radius, and numerous (forty to sixty) by-spines of half the length. (Compare with this species Actinomma trinacrium, with which it is connected by transitional forms.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.09, middle 0.03, inner 0.01; cortical pores 0.008 to 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.05, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thin walled, with large, irregular roundish, polygonally framed pores, twice to four times as broad as the crested bars. Both medullary shells of similar structure. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2.5 : 6. Numerous (thirty to fifty or more) thin radial beams connecting them, prolonged outside into strong three-sided pyramidal spines, shorter than the radius; each of the three wings with two teeth. Between these, numerous smaller angular by-spines of one-quarter to one-half the length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.12, middle 0.05, inner 0.02; cortical pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.008; length of the main spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.01.

Habitat.—South-east Pacific (South of Juan Fernandez), Station 300, surface.

Genus 103. Pityomma,^[139] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with three concentric lattice-shells and numerous branched radial spines.

The genus Pityomma differs from its ancestral form, Actinomma, in the ramification of its radial spines, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Elatomma, among the Haliommida, bears to Haliomma.

Cortical shell thick walled, connected with both concentric medullary shells by twenty thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twenty large cylindrical radial spines; these are somewhat shorter than the shell radius, simple in the proximal inner half, irregularly branched in the outer half. All three spheres with regular, circular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; radial proportion = 1 : 2 : 6. (Similar to Cladococcus scoparius, Pl. 27, fig. 2, and Elatomma scoparium, but differs from both in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.15, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; length of the spines 0.1.

Cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish pores, connected with both medullary shells by twenty stout radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twenty large three-sided prismatic spines. These are longer than the shell diameter and have three dentate edges, being branched like a pine tree (with four to six ramified branches on each edge, decreasing in size towards the distal end); similar to those of Cladococcus abietinus (Pl. 27, fig. 3). Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 8. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.2, middle 0.05, inner 0.025; length of the spines 0.25.

Cortical shell thin walled, connected with both medullary shells by very numerous (one hundred to two hundred or more) very thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into thin branched radial spines, scarcely half as long as the shell radius, each spine bearing six to nine simple branches. Outer and middle shell uneven, with hill-shaped protuberances and valleys between them; the connecting radial beams, which arise from the top of the protuberances of the middle shell, are inserted into the deepest part of the valleys of the outer shell. Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 3 : 8. Outer medullary shell with small, irregular, roundish, or polygonal pores, not much broader than the bars; innermost shell with polygonal pores and very thin bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.28, middle 0.1, inner 0.033; length of the spines 0.07, breadth 0.004.

Subfamily Cromyommida,^[140] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 453.

Genus 104. Cromyomma,^[141] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and numerous simple radial spines of one kind.

The genus Cromyomma is the common ancestral form of the Cromyommida, or of those Astrosphærida in which the shell is composed of four concentric spheres, connected by radial beams. Usually two of these are intracapsular or medullary {261}shells, two extracapsular or cortical shells; the distance between the former and the latter is greater than the distance between either the two inner or the two outer shells. In some cases, however (e.g., Cromyomma zonaster), the distance between all four shells is equal.

Subgenus 1. Cromyommetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the outer cortical shell regular, of nearly equal size and similar form.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 4 : 5. Outer cortical shell thick walled, densely covered with innumerable bristle-shaped radial spines, half as long as the radius. Pores regular, circular, double-edged, of the same breadth as the bars; ten to twelve on the radius. The thick outer shell is so dark, that the outlines only of the other three shells can be seen.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) outer cortical shell 0.2, (B) inner cortical shell 0.16, (C) outer medullary shell 0.08, (D) inner medullary shell 0.04; pores and bars of the outer shell 0.008; length of the spines 0.04.

Acanthosphæra zonaster, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 285, Taf. ii. fig. 2.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 2 : 3 : 4 : 5. Outer cortical shell thick walled, densely covered with numerous bristle-shaped radial spines, as long as the radius. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the radius. The thick outer shell is so dark, that the outlines only of the other three shells can be seen.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.15, (B) 0.12, (C) 0.09, (D) 0.06; pores of the outer shell 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.08.

Cromyomma perplexum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 95, Taf. iii. fig. 5.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 3 : 4. Outer cortical shell thick walled, densely covered with short conical spines, as long as the diameter of the pores. These are regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the radius. The thick outer shell is so dark, that the outlines only of the three other shells can be seen.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.17, (B) 0.13, (C) 0.087, (D) 0.043; pores of the outer shell 0.015, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Cromyommura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the outer cortical shell irregular, of different size and form.

Cromyosphæra perspicua, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xxx. fig. 8).

Radial proportion of the four shells = 1 : 2.5 : 6 : 9. Outer cortical shell very thin walled, with thread-like bars, and irregular, polygonal pores; inner cortical shell with similar pores, but with thicker bars. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores (the outer three times as broad as the inner). Numerous thin radial beams connect the latter with the former; other very thin and numerous beams connect the two cortical shells, and are prolonged outside into short bristle-shaped spines (often longer than in the figure).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.18, (B) 0.12, (C) 0.05, (D) 0.02; pores of the outer shell 0.01 to 0.02; length of the spines 0.01 to 0.03.

Cromyomma quadruplex, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 446.

Haliomma quadruplex, Ehrenberg, 1854, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 243.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 3 : 7 : 10. Outer cortical shell thin walled, irregularly covered with numerous angular spines, as long as the radius. Pores of all four shells irregular, roundish, increasing in size from the first to the fourth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.15, (B) 0.1, (C) 0.045, (D) 0.015; pores of the outer shell 0.01 to 0.02; length of the spines 0.07.

Cromyomma macroporum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 95, Taf. iii. fig. 4.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 3 : 6 : 9. Outer cortical shell thick walled, densely covered with short conical spines, as long as the diameter of the pores; the latter are irregular, roundish, or polygonal, larger and smaller alternating.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.1, (B) 0.066, (C) 0.033, (D) 0.011; pores of the outer shell 0.033 to 0.016, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.01.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 5 : 7. Outer cortical shell very delicate and thin walled, with thread-like bars and large, irregular, polygonal meshes (larger than the innermost shell); {263}inner cortical shell also with irregular, polygonal pores, three to nine times as broad as the thick bars. Both medullary shells with subregular, circular pores (the outer three times as broad as the inner). Radial spines twelve to twenty, three-sided prismatic, stout, piercing the three outer shells, inserted on the innermost; their outer part pyramidal, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.22, (B) 0.15, (C) 0.07, (D) 0.03; meshes of the outer shell 0.02 to 0.04; length of the outer spines 0.05.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 3 : 6. Outer cortical shell thin walled, with large, irregular, roundish pores and crested three-sided bars; inner cortical shell with regular, circular, hexagonally formed pores (four times as broad as the bars). Both medullary shells with simple, small, regular, circular pores (fig. 5a). Twelve radial spines three-sided prismatic, dagger-shaped, with three teeth, as long as the diameter of the innermost shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.24, (B) 0.12, (C) 0.08, (D) 0.04; meshes of the outer shell 0.02 to 0.04; length of the spines 0.04.

Genus 105. Cromyechinus,^[142] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and numerous simple spines of two different kinds; larger main spines and smaller by-spines.

The genus Cromyechinus differs from Cromyomma in the same way as Echinomma from Actinomma; the radial spines being differentiated into two different kinds; a larger number of small by-spines, and a smaller number of large main spines.

Radial proportion of the three spheres = 1 : 2 : 6 : 8. Outer cortical shell very delicate, with very small, regular, circular pores, covered with very numerous bristle-shaped by-spines, half as long as the radius; inner cortical shell with very large, irregular, polygonal pores, three to eight times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with regular, circular pores, connected with the former by twenty regularly disposed, very thin bars; these are prolonged outside into twenty very stout, three-sided prismatic main spines, as long as the radius, which arise from the inner cortical shell, and at the distal end are cuspidate.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.16, (B) 0.13, (C) 0.04, (D) 0.02; pores of the outer cortical shell 0.003, of the inner 0.03, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.08.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 3 : 10 : 12. Outer cortical shell very delicate, with very small, regular, circular pores, covered with numerous short bristle-shaped by-spines, scarcely one-fourth as long as the radius; inner cortical shell with very large, irregular, polygonal pores, twice to six times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with very small, regular, circular pores, connected with the former by twelve regularly disposed, thin radial beams; these are prolonged outside into twelve strong, three-sided pyramidal main spines, one-third as long as the shell diameter. (Differs from the foregoing only in the number and form of the radial spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.12, (B) 0.1, (C) 0.03, (D) 0.01; pores of the outer cortical shell 0.002, of the inner 0.02, bars 0.002; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.01.

Radial proportion of the four spheres = 1 : 2 : 8 : 10. Outer cortical shell of the same structure as the inner, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to six times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells with small, regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Connecting radial beams forty to sixty, thin, cylindrical, prolonged outside into forty to sixty strong conical main spines, about as long as the radius. Between these, numerous thin bristle-shaped by-spines, nearly of the same length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.25, (B) 0.2, (C) 0.05, (D) 0.025; pores of both cortical shells 0.01 to 0.03; length of the spines 0.12.

Genus 106. Cromyodrymus,^[143] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with four concentric lattice-spheres and numerous branched radial spines.

The genus Cromyodrymus differs from its ancestral form, Cromyomma, in the ramification of the radial spines, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Pityomma among the Actinommida bears to Actinomma.

Radial proportion of the four shells = 1 : 3 : 6 : 12. All four shells with regular, circular pores, about twice as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the pores in the four shells = 2 : 4 : 2 : 1. Radial spines fifty to sixty, three-sided prismatic, half as long as the radius, with three recurved teeth, each spine in this way bearing four points.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.16, (B) 0.08, (C) 0.04, (D) 0.013; length of the spines 0.03 to 0.04, breadth 0.007.

Radial proportion of the four shells = 1 : 2 : 5 : 11. All four shells with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Radial proportion of the pores in the four shells = 9 : 3 : 2 : 1. Radial spines eighty to one hundred and twenty, about as long as the radius, branched like a pine tree, with six to twelve ramified branches.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the four shells—(A) 0.22, (B) 0.1, (C) 0.04, (D) 0.02; length of the spines 0.12, breadth 0.006.

Subfamily Caryommida,^[144] Haeckel.

Arachnosphærida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 354; Prodromus, 1881, p. 454.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with five or more concentric spherical lattice-shells.

Genus 107. Caryomma,^[145] n. gen.

Definition.—Arachnosphærida with five to six or more concentric spherical lattice-shells; two inner (intracapsular) medullary and three or more outer (extracapsular) cortical shells, composed of ordinary lattice-work; distance between the former and the latter greater than between any other two shells.

The genus Caryomma may be regarded as a Cromyomma, in which the number of the cortical shells is increased to three, four, or more. These lie outside the central capsule, whilst two medullary shells lie within it, and are connected with the former by numerous radial spines piercing the wall of the capsule. The ordinary lattice-work is not arachnoidal, as in the three following genera.

Radial proportion of the five shells = 1 : 2 : 6 : 8 : 10. All five shells with regular, circular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars, and gradually increasing in size from the innermost to the outermost shell. Radial beams connecting them twenty, prolonged on the surface into twenty stout, three-sided pyramidal, radial spines, half as long as the radius, regularly disposed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the five shells—(A) 0.25, (B) 0.2, (C) 0.15, (D) 0.05, (E) 0.025.

Radial proportion of the six shells = 1 : 2.5 : 8 : 10.5 : 13 : 15. Both inner (medullary) shells with regular, circular pores, the other four (cortical) shells with irregular, roundish pores, gradually increasing in size from the innermost to the outermost shell. Radial spines sixty to eighty, pyramidal, irregularly disposed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the six shells—(A) 0.3, (B) 0.26, (C) 0.21, (D) 0.16, (E) 0.05, (F) 0.02.

Genus 108. Arachnopila,^[146] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with five to ten or more cortical, concentric, polyhedral, or spherical lattice-shells, composed of a very thin cobweb-like network; innermost shell with hexagonal (regular) or polygonal (irregular) meshes; other shells with simple triangular meshes, without diagonal threads between them.

The genus Arachnopila, together with the two following genera, forms the peculiar small group of large Arachnosphærida, separated from the true Caryommida by the totally different structure and disposition of the numerous concentric shells; the former exhibits a similar relation to the latter that the Diplosphærida bears to the Elatommida among the dispherical Haliommida. The concentric shells (five to ten or more) lie outside the central capsule, and are composed of very delicate, cobweb-like threads. From the innermost shell arise numerous, three-sided prismatic, very long spines, from which at equal regular distances arise lateral branches (three pairs from each spine, and one pair from each corner). In Arachnopila these threads pass directly from one spine to the other, and form simple, large, triangular meshes between them. The concentric shells are not connected by interwoven diagonal threads.

Innermost shell with regular hexagonal pores; its diameter twice as long as the equal distance between every two concentric shells. Radial spines twenty to forty, each with twenty to twenty-four verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.1; distance between the concentric shells 0.05.

Innermost shell with irregular, polygonal pores; its diameter fully as long as the equal distance between every two concentric shells. Radial spines sixty to eighty, each with twelve to sixteen verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.04; distance between the concentric shells 0.04.

Genus 109. Arachnopegma,^[147] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with five to ten or more cortical, concentric, polyhedral, or spherical lattice-shells, composed of a very thin, cobweb-like network; innermost shell with hexagonal or polygonal meshes; other shells with simple triangular meshes, connected to one another by diagonal threads between them.

The genus Arachnopegma differs from its ancestral form Arachnopila, in the possession of peculiar diagonal threads, which connect the verticils or nodal-points of every two neighbouring radial spines in two different neighbouring concentric shells. In this case, therefore, not only do triangular meshes lie in the spherical faces of the concentric spheres, but also between them, in numerous oblique diagonal planes; a very rare and remarkable structure, and forming a transition to spongy shells.

Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes; its diameter is the same as the equal distance between each of the two shells. Threads of the network smooth. Radial spines twenty to forty, each with fifteen to twenty verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.04, distance between the concentric shells 0.03 to 0.04.

Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes; its diameter half as large as the equal distance between every two shells. Threads of the network dentated or with small knots. Radial spines fifty to sixty, each with twenty to twenty-five verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.02; distance between the concentric shells 0.04 to 0.05.

Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes; its diameter quite as large as the distance between it and the second shell; only half as large as the distance between the fourth and fifth shells. Forty to fifty radial spines, each with fifteen to twenty verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell (A) 0.025; distance between the following shells—A, B = 0.025, B, C = 0.03, C, D = 0.04, D, E = 0.048, E, F = 0.056, F, G = 0.064, &c.

Genus 110. Arachnosphæra,^[148] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 355.

The genus Arachnosphæra (accurately described by me in 1862, loc. cit.) differs from the two preceding genera in the irregular form of the large meshes in all shells (except often the innermost). This is caused by the ramification of the thin threads, which on each shell connect the neighbouring spines. In Arachnopila and Arachnopegma the threads pass directly and undivided from each spine to the neighbouring spine (three pairs from the three edges), and therefore all meshes are triangular. In Arachnosphæra they become polygonal by irregular ramification of the threads. There are here no diagonal threads.

Subgenus 1. Arachnosphærella, Haeckel.

Arachnosphæra oligacantha, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 356, Taf. x. fig. 2, Taf. xi. fig. 3.

Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes; its diameter three times as long as the equal distances between every two concentric shells. Fifteen to twenty radial spines scattered at wide intervals, each with six to eight verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.12; distance between the concentric shells 0.04 to 0.05.

Arachnosphæra myriacantha, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 357, Taf. x. fig. 3, Taf. xi. fig. 4.

Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes; its diameter twice as long as the equal distances between every two concentric shells. At each nodal-point occurs one radial spine with six to eight verticils (spines in all one hundred to one hundred and twenty or more).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.1; distance between the concentric shells 0.04 to 0.05.

Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, very small; its diameter only as long as the equal distances between every two concentric shells. At each nodal-point occurs one radial spine with twelve to sixteen verticils (altogether thirty to forty spines).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.05; distance between the concentric shells 0.04 to 0.05.

Innermost shell with regular, hexagonal meshes; its diameter three times as long as the distance between it and the second shell, quite as long as the distance between the fifth and sixth shells; the distances between the concentric shells gradually increasing from the centre. Radial spines about fifty to sixty, each with six to eight verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell (A) 0.75; distances between the following shells—A, B = 0.025, B, C = 0.037, C, D = 0.05, D, E = 0.062, E, F = 0.075, &c.

Subgenus 2. Arachnosphæromma, Haeckel.

Innermost shell with irregular, polygonal meshes; its diameter twice as long as the equal distance between every two concentric shells. Forty to fifty radial spines, each with twelve to sixteen verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell 0.1, distance between the concentric shells 0.04 to 0.05.

Innermost shell with irregular, polygonal meshes; its diameter twice as long as the distance between it and the second shell, quite as long as the distance between the third and fourth shells; the distance between the concentric shells gradually increasing from the centre. Radial spines twenty to thirty, each with ten to twelve verticils.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the innermost shell (A) 0.5; distances of the following shells—A, B = 0.025, B, C = 0.037, C, D = 0.05, D, E = 0.062, E, F = 0.075.

Subfamily Spongiommida,^[149] Haeckel.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with spongy spherical or polyhedral shell (with or without enclosed concentric lattice-shells).

Genus 111. Spongiomma,^[150] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with solid spongy sphere, with numerous simple radial spines, but without latticed medullary shells.

The genus Spongiomma differs from its ancestral form, Styptosphæra, in the development of simple radial spines on the surface of the solid sphere, the entire mass of which is composed of an irregular, spongy wicker-work.

Subgenus 1. Spongiommella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines on the surface of the spongy sphere all of the same shape.

Spongy framework of the solid sphere of the same structure throughout, with small, irregular, polyhedral meshes and very thin thread-like bars. From the surface arise very numerous (one hundred and twenty to one hundred and sixty or more) straight, bristle-shaped radial spines, as long as the radius of the sphere (counting from the middle part of it).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy sphere 0.2; length of the radial spines 0.1.

Spongy framework of the solid sphere of the same structure throughout, with small, almost equal meshes, four to eight times as broad as the thin, elegantly denticulated bars; from the surface arise very numerous (two hundred to three hundred or more) curved, radial spines, as long as the radius, and of the same form as the bars.

Spongy framework in the central part of the sphere much denser and darker, and with smaller meshes than in the peripheral part in which are very thin bars. Entire surface covered with {271}innumerable short, bristle-shaped radial spines, only one-eighth as long as the radius, of the same elegant form as in Octodendron spathillatum (Pl. 18, figs. 2, 4); each spine developed in a zig-zag fashion, with very small beards, with a delicate spathillum (or coronal of beard spines) at the distal end.

Spongy framework in the central part of the sphere much denser and darker than in the peripheral part. On the surface are sixty to eighty stout, club-shaped radial spines, as long as the radius of the sphere, in the proximal half three-sided prismatic, with three dentated edges; they begin at the middle of the radius (where the denser inner framework changes into the looser outer) and are very thin at first but increase slowly in thickness towards the truncated distal end. (Similar to Centrocubus rhopalophorus, Pl. 18, fig. 1, but without the cubical medullary shell.)

Subgenus 2. Spongiommura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines on the surface of the spongy sphere of two different kinds; large main spines and small by-spines.

Spongy framework of the sphere everywhere of the same structure, with almost equal meshes, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars. Sixteen to twenty radial main spines, longer than the shell diameter, three-sided prismatic, with three serrated edges, beginning about the middle of the radius and increasing in thickness to the truncated distal end. Between them occur numerous thin, bent, bristle-shaped by-spines. (Very similar to Spongosphæra helioides, Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xii. figs. 11-13, but without medullary shells.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.3; length of the main spines 0.4, of the by-spines 0.01.

Spongechinus multiaculeatus, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 29, Taf. v. figs. 60-63.

Spongy framework of the sphere very compact, with small meshes, scarcely broader than the bars; four to eight large main spines, three-sided pyramidal, longer than the shell radius; numerous (thirty to forty) thin by-spines, scarcely half as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.16; length of the main spines 0.11, of the by-spines 0.03.

Spongy framework in the central part of the sphere much denser and darker than in the peripheral part. Sixty to eighty cylindro-conical main spines, as long as the radius, between them are numerous straight, bristle-shaped by-spines half that length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.28; length of the main spines 0.16, of the by-spines 0.08.

Genus 112. Spongodrymus,^[151] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 456.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with solid spongy sphere, without latticed medullary shell, with numerous branched radial spines.

The genus Spongodrymus differs from the preceding Spongiomma in the ramification of the numerous radial spines, covering the surface of the solid spongy sphere.

Spongy framework of the solid sphere equal throughout, on the surface arising in the form of very numerous (sixty to eighty or more) spongy cones with rather rhomboidal meshes. Each cone is prolonged into a very thin, irregularly curved radial spine, which is twice as long as the shell diameter, simple in the proximal half, branched like a tree in the distal half; each arborescent spine has from sixteen to thirty-two terminal branches, which fall in one spherical face. The branches of neighbouring spines are partly connected by anastomoses, so that they begin to form an outer spherical shell (cortical shell) with a looser spongy framework.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole spherical skeleton (sphere formed by the distal ends of the dichotomous branches) 0.9, of the inner solid spongy sphere 0.02.

Spongy framework denser and darker in the central part of the sphere than in the peripheral part, with rather coarse meshes and thick bars. From the surface arise very numerous (sixty to eighty) stout, radial branches, as long as the shell radius, branched like a pine tree (with six to twelve ramified branches). Similar in structure to Cromyodrymus abietinus (Pl. 30, fig. 6), but with a quite irregular spongy texture in the central sphere.

Genus 113. Spongechinus,^[152] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 456.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with hollow, spongy sphere, without latticed medullary shell in the central cavity, and with numerous simple radial spines.

The genus Spongechinus differs from its ancestral form, Plegmosphæra, in the development of numerous radial spines on the surface of the spongy sphere, within which is enclosed a large spherical central cavity.

Spongy sphere three times as broad as its inner cavity, with a very delicate, equal framework. Entire surface covered with short, straight, bristle-shaped radial spines, about half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.2, of its inner cavity 0.07; length of the spines 0.05.

Spongy sphere twice as broad as its inner cavity, with a delicate, equal framework. Entire surface covered with short, curved, radial spines, which are elegantly denticulated, and as long as the shell radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.3, of its cavity 0.15; length of the spines 0.15.

Spongy sphere only one-fourth broader than the large inner cavity, its spongy wall being only one-fourth as thick as the radius, composed of three to four strata of irregular, small meshes. Surface covered with short, bristle-shaped, curved spines, one-third as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.5, of its inner cavity 0.4; length of the spines 0.08.

Genus 114. Spongothamnus,^[153] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with hollow, spongy sphere, without latticed medullary shell in the central cavity, and with numerous branched radial spines.

The genus Spongothamnus differs from the preceding Spongechinus in the ramification of the numerous radial spines, covering the surface of the hollow spongy sphere; {274}it therefore exhibits the same relation to the latter that Spongodrymus bears to Spongiomma.

Spongy sphere twice as broad as its inner cavity, with very delicate bars, and irregular, dense framework. From the surface arise one hundred and fifty to one hundred and eighty thin, forked, bristle-shaped spines, half as long as the radius; both fork branches one-third as long as the basal or simple part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.3, of its inner cavity 0.15; length of the spines 0.08.

Spongy sphere four times as broad as its inner cavity, with thick bars and rather loose framework. From the surface arise sixty to eighty broom-shaped radial spines, as long as the radius, each in the basal half simple, in the distal half with six to twelve irregularly ramified branches (similar to the spines of Cromyodrymus abietinus, Pl. 30, fig. 6).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.4, of the inner cavity 0.1; length of the spines 0.2.

Genus 115. Spongopila,^[154] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 456.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with a single, spherical, latticed medullary shell, immediately enveloped by the spongy framework of the cortical shell; on the surface of the latter are numerous radial spines.

The genus Spongopila is a Spongoplegma with radial spines. On the other hand it may be derived either from Elaphococcus, by communication of the branched spines, or from Arachnosphæra, by development of spongy branches between the concentric spheres.

Medullary shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, six times as broad as the bars. From each nodal-point (between every three meshes) arises a bristle-shaped radial spine, which is dichotomously branched. By communication of the neighbouring branches the loose spongy framework of the spherical cortical shell is formed, which is four times as broad as the medullary shell. On the surface occur very numerous bristle-shaped radial spines, as long as the diameter of the medullary shell. (May be derived from Elaphococcus.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.3, of the medullary shell 0.08.

Medullary shell with regular, hexagonal meshes, four times as broad as the bars. From its surface arise forty to sixty, three-sided prismatic radial spines, bearing eight to ten verticils of lateral branches, each verticil with six forked branches (two from each edge). By irregular ramification of these branches, and communication in all directions, the loose spongy framework of the cortical shell originates, which is six times as broad as the medullary shell. The free distal ends of the spines are as long as the shell radius. (May be derived from Arachnosphæra.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.6, of the medullary shell 0.1.

Genus 116. Rhizoplegma,^[155] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 456.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with a single, spherical, latticed medullary shell, which is not armed with by-spines, but connected by stout radial main spines with the spongy cortical shell.

The genus Rhizoplegma is immediately allied to the foregoing Spongopila, but differs from it in the large interval separating both shells. In this interval lies the wall of the central capsule, which is only pierced by the radial spines connecting both shells.

Subgenus 1. Rhizoplegmarium, Haeckel.

Definition.—No free lateral branches of the radial spines between the two shells.

Spongy cortical shell with a very fine dense framework and nearly smooth surface (without superficial by-spines). Its inner cavity is four times as broad as the medullary shell, which exhibits regular, hexagonal meshes. Radial spines sixty to eighty, three-sided prismatic, with three smooth edges, without lateral branches between both shells; their free outer part as long as the shell radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.3, of its inner cavity 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05.

Spongy cortical shell with a very delicate loose framework and bristly surface. Its inner cavity three times as broad as the medullary shell, which exhibits regular, hexagonal meshes. {276}Radial spines thirty to forty, prismatic, with three smooth, spirally contorted edges, without lateral branches between the two shells; their free outer part half as long as the shell radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.2, of its inner cavity 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.04.

Spongy cortical shell with a rather loose framework and coarse bars, with nearly smooth surface (without by-spines). Its inner cavity twice as broad as the medullary shell, which exhibits irregular, roundish pores. Radial spines forty to sixty, prismatic, with three smooth straight edges, without free branches between the two shells; their outer pyramidal part only one-third of the shell radius. (Very similar to the common Rhizosphæra trigonacantha, but with simple medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.2, of its inner cavity 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.08.

Subgenus 2. Rhizoplegmidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Between the two shells free lateral branches arise from the three edges of the radial spines.

Spongy cortical shell with a very loose framework; on the surface are innumerable thin, forked, or repeatedly dichotomous by-spines. Its inner cavity three times as broad as the medullary shell, which exhibits regular, hexagonal meshes (fig. 9a). Radial spines twelve, prismatic, with straight dentated edges, their outer pointed part as long as the shell radius. Each spine between the two shells has a verticil of three forked lateral branches (fig. 9a). The central capsule completely distends the medullary shell, and forces out through each mesh a hernia-shaped process (fig. 9).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.5, of its inner cavity 0.25, of the medullary shell 0.08.

Lychnosphæra rhizoplegma, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xi. fig. 5).

Spongy cortical shell with a very loose framework, composed of long thin beams as in Lychnosphæra regina (Pl. 11, figs. 1-4). Surface covered with short bristles. Its inner cavity six times as broad as the medullary shell, which exhibits regular, hexagonal meshes. Radial spines twelve, prismatic, with three smooth edges; their outer pointed part half as long as the shell radius. Each spine has three verticils of three forked branches; the first verticil is free {277}between the two shells, while the two following verticils, by communication of their ramules, form the irregular framework. Central capsule with many herniæ, forced out through the meshes of the medullary shell (fig. 5).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.7, of its inner cavity 0.45, of the medullary shell 0.07.

Genus 117. Lychnosphæra,^[156] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with a single, spherical, latticed medullary shell, which is armed with free radial by-spines, and connected by stout radial main spines with the spongy cortical shell.

The genus Lychnosphæra, known only by one single, large, and very remarkable species, mainly differs from the foregoing in the development of free radial by-spines on the surface of the medullary shell, and in the free interval between it and the cortical shell; but beyond this the loose spongy framework of the latter exhibits a very remarkable structure, figured in Pl. 11.

Medullary shell (fig. 3) with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; from each hexagon-corner arises a radial, bristle-shaped by-spine, as long as the diameter. Twelve radial main spines each as broad as one of the meshes, three-sided prismatic, six to eight times as long as the medullary shell. From their three leaf-shaped (often somewhat denticulated or spirally contorted) edges arise four verticils of lateral branches, each composed of three forked, thin branches. The forked branches of the first verticil end free between the two shells (figs. 2, 3), while the two following verticils are ramified, and, by anastomosis of their branches, compose the loose spongy framework of the cortical shell. On the surface of the latter arise numerous radial (zig-zag-shaped) by-spines. The fourth verticil is terminal, with three shorter, thicker, dentated, simple branches, which constitute, together with the distal apex of the spine itself, a bunch of four terminal spines. The large central capsule completely distends the medullary shell, and forces out by its pores numerous club-shaped herniæ (fig. 1).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.6, of its inner cavity 0.4, of the central capsule 0.22, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the radial spines 0.4, breadth 0.01.

Genus 118. Centrocubus,^[157] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with a single, cubical medullary shell, immediately surrounded by the spongy framework of the cortical shell; from the eight corners {278}of the central cube arise eight primary radial spines, and often others from the framework between them.

The genus Centrocubus and the following closely allied Octodendron may represent a peculiar small group of Spongiommida, remarkable for the regular, cubical form of the medullary shell, which is composed of twelve thin rods, corresponding to the twelve edges of a mathematical cube; from the eight corners invariably arise eight primary radial spines, the branches of which form the spongy cortical shell.

Radial spines eight, arising from the eight corners of the cubiform, regular, medullary shell, gradually increasing in thickness towards the club-shaped distal end, which is five to six times as broad as the central end. From the three denticulate edges of each spine arise six to eight lateral branches, which ramify irregularly and form by their anastomosis the spongy framework which is of nearly similar structure throughout, and with large loose meshes. The free distal part of each spine is half as long as the enclosed part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.6, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.15, distal thickness 0.02.

Radial spines thirty-two, club-shaped, at the distal end eight to ten times as broad as at the basal end. Eight primary spines arise from the eight corners of the regular, cubiform medullary shell, and from these, in the form of lateral branches, twenty-four secondary spines arise with concavely curved bases (three from the three denticulate edges of each spine, at nearly equal distances from the centre). The free distal end of each of the thirty-two spines is of the same shape, about half as long as the radius of the spongy sphere; framework much looser in the outer than in the inner part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.8, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.2, distal thickness 0.02.

Radial spines sixty to eighty, club-shaped, four to six times as broad at the distal as at the basal end. Eight primary spines arise from the eight corners of the regular, cubiform medullary shell, the remainder either springing as lateral branches from the three denticulate corners of the former, or arising within the spongy framework, which is much denser and darker in the central than in the peripheral part. The free distal end of each spine is one-third as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the sphere 0.9, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.15, distal thickness 0.02.

Genus 119. Octodendron,^[158] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with a single, cubical medullary shell, and eight primary radial spines arising from its eight corners; these are connected at equal distances by a latticed, spherical, cortical shell, from which the spongy framework directly springs; often from the latter secondary radial spines arise.

The genus Octodendron has the same regular, cubical medullary shell as the preceding Centrocubus, but differs from it in the wide interval separating the medullary shell from the inner spherical face of the spongy cortical shell, the two being connected only by eight radial beams, arising from the eight corners of the cube.

Subgenus 1. Octodendridium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Only eight primary radial spines, arising from the eight corners of the central cube.

Radial spines eight, club-shaped, with three denticulate, straight edges, twice as long as the diameter of the central cavity of the cubical spongy shell; the inner face of the latter (or the "inner cortical shell") exhibits the form of a large cube, the spongy sides of which are parallel with the simple square sides of the central cube. The thin eight radial beams, connecting the corresponding corners of both cubes, are not thicker than the edge-bars of the central cube, whilst their outer prolongations are much thicker, with four to six verticils of lateral branches. Surface of the thin walled, loose, spongy shell armed with short simple thorns.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.2, of its inner cavity 0.1, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.2 (from the centre 0.3).

Radial spines eight, three-sided prismatic, three times as long as the diameter of the inner shell-cavity; their three edges denticulated and spirally contorted around the spine axis. Thickness of the loose spongy shell-wall equal to the radius of the inner cavity, three times as large as the central cube. Surface covered, with numerous thin, bristle-shaped, bent spinules.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.24, of its inner cavity 0.12, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.4, breadth 0.01.

Radial spines eight, three-sided prismatic, three to four times as long as the diameter of the inner shell-cavity, with three spirally contorted edges. From each spine arise at equal distances (equal to the half radius of the cavity) fifteen to twenty verticils of branches which increase in size from the base of the spine. Each verticil is composed of six forked branches (two from each spine-edge); the inferior are richly branched, and form by their connection the loose network of the spongy cortical shell, the surface of which is covered with numerous bent threads. Each spine bears a resemblance to a pine tree.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.3, of its inner cavity 0.15, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.5 to 0.6, breadth 0.01.

Radial spines eight, three-sided prismatic, with three spirally contorted edges, eight to ten times as long as the diameter of the inner shell-cavity (the free distal portion twice to three times as long). From each spine arise at equal distances thirty to thirty-five verticils of branches, which decrease in size towards the distal end. Each verticil is composed of six forked branches (two from each spine-edge); the inferior are richly ramified and form by their connection the loose spongy framework; the distal branches bear on the free end elegant spathillæ (as in the following species). Surface covered with innumerable straight bristles, as long as the cavity radius, and ending with a spathilla. Diameter of the central capsule about equal to the radius of the spongy sphere, its membrane is double-edged.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 1.4 mm., of its inner cavity 0.14, of the central cube 0.02, of the central capsule 0.5 to 0.6; length of the spines 0.9 to 1.2, breadth 0.02.

Radial spines eight, three-sided prismatic, with contorted edges, five to eight times as long as the diameter of the shell-cavity (the free part twice as long). From each spine arise ten to twelve verticils of lateral branches; each verticil composed of three forked branches. The proximal larger branches ramify richly, and form by their connection the loose spongy framework of the spherical shell; the distal smaller branches are simple or bifurcated, and the ramules are provided with an elegant spathillum at the end (fig. 4). Entire surface of the spongy sphere covered with innumerable bristle-shaped radial spines (half as long as the cavity radius), zig-zag, bent, with beards, and with a spathillum at the end.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy sphere 1 mm., of its central cavity 0.15, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 1 to 1.2 mm., breadth 0.008.

Subgenus 2. Octodendronium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines thirty-two or more, eight primary (arising from the eight corners of the central cube) and twenty-four or more secondary (between them).

Radial spines thirty-two, with three denticulate straight edges, six to eight times as long as the diameter of the shell-cavity; the distal parts half free. Eight primary spines arise from the eight corners of the central cube, twenty-four secondary from the edges of these (a verticil of every three from each primary spine). Distal free parts of all thirty-two spines equal. Each spine with eight to ten verticils of forked lateral branches, without spathillæ. Surface of the spongy sphere covered with short simple bristles.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.3, of its cavity 0.12, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.7 to 1 mm., breadth 0.02.

Radial spines thirty-two, disposed in a similar manner to those of the former species (eight primary and twenty-four secondary); also the spongy shell of the same shape. The difference arises in the form of the spines, the three edges of which are much broader and spirally contorted around the axis; and thus the corresponding branches of the verticil do not lie in the same meridian-plane, but alternate one with another.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.4, of its cavity 0.1, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.8 to 1.2, breadth 0.04.

Radial spines sixty to ninety, three-sided prismatic, with spirally contorted and denticulate edges, six to eight times as long as the diameter of the inner shell-cavity. Eight primary arise from the eight corners of the central cube, twenty-four others from their three edges (as in the two former species); the remaining thirty to sixty spines seem to arise between the former and immediately from the dense spongy framework, which is twice as thick as the diameter of the inner shell-cavity. The numerous verticils of the free distal part are of equal shape in all the spines, composed of three forked branches in the terminal, and of more ramified branches in the inferior parts. Entire surface of the spongy shell covered with simple radial bristles, without spathillæ.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.75, of its central cavity 0.15, of the central cube 0.02; length of the spines 0.9 to 1.2, breadth 0.02.

Genus 120. Spongosphæra,^[159] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with two concentric latticed medullary shells, connected by radial beams; the outer is immediately enveloped by the spongy framework, and bears numerous radial spines.

The genus Spongosphæra (in the definition here restricted) differs from Spongopila in the double medullary shell, which in the latter is simple; it exhibits to the latter the same relation that Spongodictyon among the Liosphærida bears to Spongoplegma. The outer medullary shell of Spongosphæra is immediately enveloped by the spongy wicker-work, which everywhere pierces the wall of the central capsule.

Spongosphæra streptacantha, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 455, Taf. xxvi. figs. 1-3.

Spongy shell of polyhedric, irregular outline, the framework being prolonged sheath-like into the eight to twelve radial spines, which are quite irregularly distributed, very large, three-sided prismatic, with three serrated, spirally contorted edges; their length is twice to four times as great as the diameter of the spongy body; they arise with thinner bases from the outer medullary shell, which is three times as broad as the inner, both having roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; surface without radial by-spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.2 to 0.6, outer medullary shell 0.04 to 0.06, inner 0.012 to 0.016.

Spongosphæra polyacantha, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 32, Taf. iv. figs. 1-4.

Spongy shell spherical, with ten to twenty large radial spines, which arise with thinner bases from the medullary shell, and are prominent on the surface at different lengths; they are three-sided prismatic (not four-sided), with three leaf-shaped straight edges. Whilst the spongy framework is much looser than in the preceding species, both medullary shells have nearly the same shape.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.2 to 0.5, outer medullary shell 0.04 to 0.06, inner 0.012 to 0.016.

Subgenus Spongosphæromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines on the surface of the spongy shell of two different kinds; large piercing main spines and small superficial by-spines.

Spongosphæra helioides, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p.456, Taf. xii. figs. 11-13.

Spongy shell spherical, with numerous curved, bristle-shaped by-spines on the surface, as long as the radius. Main spines ten to twenty, irregularly disposed, prismatic, with three dentated, spirally contorted edges, broader toward the distal end. Outer medullary shell three times as broad as the inner, with polygonal meshes (of the same size as those in the spongy framework) and fine bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.2, outer medullary shell 0.02, inner 0.007.

Spongy shell spherical, with numerous curved, bristle-shaped by-spines on the surface, half as long as the radius. Main spines twenty to thirty, irregularly disposed, prismatic, with three dentated, spirally contorted edges, and at the distal end four strong pyramidal divergent teeth (three as terminations of the edges, the fourth as end of the spine axis). Outer medullary shell twice as broad as the inner, both having circular, regular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.3, outer medullary shell 0.04, inner 0.013.

Genus 121. Rhizosphæra,^[160] Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 840.

Definition.—Astrosphærida with two concentric latticed medullary shells, connected by radial beams; from the outer arise numerous radial spines, which at equal distances are connected by a latticed spherical cortical shell, surrounded by a spongy framework.

The genus Rhizosphæra exhibits the same relation to Spongosphæra that Rhizoplegma bears to Spongopila; but in the latter the latticed medullary shell is simple, in the two former double. The wall of the central capsule is pierced only by the radial spines connecting the medullary and the cortical shells.

Rhizosphæra trigonacantha, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 452, Taf. xxv. figs. 1-7.

Central cavity of the spongy cortical shell twice as broad as the diameter of the outer medullary shell. Bars of all three shells of the same breadth as the thirty to fifty (or more) radial spines, {284}which are three-sided prismatic; their outer free distal end only as long as the diameter of the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.25, of its inner cavity 0.2, outer medullary shell 0.1, inner 0.05.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface from many Stations.

Central cavity of the spongy shell five times as broad as the diameter of the outer medullary shell. Bars of all three shells of the same breadth as the forty to sixty (or more) thin radial beams between them. These are three-sided prismatic, with denticulate edges, scarcely half as broad as their outer prolongations, which are half as long as the shell radius, and possess three spirally contorted serrated edges. (The figured specimen is a young one; in the older specimens the spongy framework of the cortical shell is much more developed.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.3, of its central cavity 0.22, outer medullary shell 0.06, inner 0.02.

Rhizosphæra leptomita, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 453, Taf. xxv. figs. 8-10.

Central cavity of the spongy cortical shell twice as broad as the diameter of the outer medullary shell; bars of both very thin, only one-third as broad as the bars of the inner medullary shell. Radial spines thirty to fifty (or more), curved, three-sided prismatic; inside the spongy shell as thin as their bars, outside three times as broad.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy shell 0.27, of its inner cavity 0.2, outer medullary shell 0.1, inner 0.05.

Suborder PRUNOIDEA, Haeckel, 1883 (Pls. 13-17, 39, 40).

Definition.—Spumellaria with an ellipsoidal or cylindrical central capsule, prolonged into one axis (sometimes articulate by annular transverse strictures); with an ellipsoidal or cylindrical, fenestrated siliceous shell (often articulate by annular strictures), invariably prolonged into one axis. Fundamental form monaxon, usually with the poles of the prolonged dimensive main axis equal.

The suborder Prunoidea comprises those Spumellaria in which the fenestrated spherical shell appears prolonged into one axis. The geometric fundamental form of the shell, which in the Sphæroidea was a sphere, in this case therefore becomes an ellipsoid, and whilst in the former all axes originally have the same value (Homaxonia), {285}here one main axis is constantly larger than all other axes (Monaxonia). Usually both poles of this main axis are equal (Haplopola); but in some genera both poles become different (Diplopola).

In the Sphæroidea all planes going through the centre of the shell are circular, whereas in the Prunoidea only those planes are circular which are perpendicular to the main axis; all other planes going through the centre are elliptical; the largest of these are the meridian planes, in which is situated the main axis. Commonly all meridian planes are equal, as no transverse axes (or cross axes) are differentiated.

In my Monograph (1862) only very few forms of Prunoidea, such as Didymocyrtis and Spongurus, are described, and the greater part of them are distributed under different genera of Sphæroidea, such as Haliomma and Actinomma. In my Prodromus (1881) I separated them as the family Zygartida (p. 462). But it seems now much more convenient to restrict this term to a particular family and to give a wider extension to the whole suborder under the name Prunoidea (called after the characteristic ellipsoidal form of a plum, or Prunus, with its stone).

The suborder Prunoidea comprises seven different families, of which the Ellipsida constitutes the simplest and the probable common ancestral group. In all Ellipsida the fenestrated shell is simple, and never composed of concentric or twin shells. In their primitive genus Cenellipsis, the whole shell is geometrically nothing more than a simple ellipsoid (Pl. 39, figs. 1, 2). By development of radial spines it passes into Ellipsidium, by development of spongy framework into Spongellipsis. In the greater part of this family large spines are developed on both poles of the main axis of the shell, but sometimes instead of these solid spines, two opposite hollow fenestrated tubes are developed (Pipettella, Pl. 39, fig. 6).

The second family of Prunoidea, the Druppulida, is much richer in different forms than the simple Ellipsida. In this case the ellipsoidal shell is composed of two or three (rarely more) concentric shells. Constantly one or two of these fenestrated shells are enclosed in the central capsule, and may therefore be called "medullary shells"; and one or two (rarely more) lie outside the central capsule, "cortical shells." The inner medullary shells (one or two) are either spherical or ellipsoidal; the outer cortical shells (one or two, rarely more) are always ellipsoidal. All concentric shells are connected by radial beams. In the simplest form of the subfamily, Druppula (Pl. 39, fig. 3), one medullary shell is connected with one cortical shell. By duplication of the medullary shell arises Prunulum (Pl. 39, fig. 4), and by duplication or multiplication of the cortical shell Cromyodruppa (Pl. 15, figs. 1-4) is formed. In by far the greater portion of this subfamily large spines are developed on both poles of the main axis of the cortical shell (Pls. 16, 17), but sometimes also instead of these solid spines two opposite hollow fenestrated tubes are developed (Pipetta, Pl. 39, figs. 7, 8).

A third family of Prunoidea, closely allied to the two preceding families, is the Spongurida, in which we include all Prunoidea with an ellipsoidal or cylindrical, unjointed shell, in which the lattice-work of the cortical shell is transformed into an irregular, siliceous framework. In the simplest form, Spongellipsis, the simple lattice-shell of Cenellipsis is substituted by an external spongy envelope. In other cases (Spongurus and allied genera) the whole cavity of this external spongy shell is distended with a fine spongy framework. The subfamily of Spongodruppida is distinguished by the possession of a simple or double latticed medullary shell; this lies in the midst of the central capsule, and is connected by radial beams (perforating its membrane) with the enveloping spongy cortical shell. The surface of the latter may bear either radial spines, or two opposite strong polar spines, at the poles of the main axis (Pl. 17, fig. 12).

Closely allied to the Ellipsida and Druppulida are two other families of the Prunoidea, the Artiscida and Cyphinida, which differ from the former by a circular constriction in the equatorial plane of the ellipsoidal shell; and in this way assume a characteristic twin form, like a figure of eight. In the Artiscida the shell is simple (as in the Ellipsida), whereas in the Cyphinida it is composed of two or more concentric shells (as in the Druppulida). The simplest form of the Artiscida is Artiscus (Pl. 39, fig. 9), differing from Cenellipsis in the ring-shaped, equatorial constriction. In other Artiscida polar appendages are developed on both poles of the main axis, either in the form of solid, strong spines (Stylartus), or hollow fenestrated tubes (Cannartus, Pl. 39, fig. 10).

The family Cyphinida differs from the Druppulida in the equatorial constriction of the shell, and from the Artiscida in the presence of two or more concentric shells. One or two of these concentric fenestrated shells are enclosed in the central capsule (and therefore may be called "medullary shells"); the others (one or two, rarely more) lie outside of the central capsule (therefore "cortical shells"). The internal "medullary shells" are always spherical or somewhat lenticular, compressed from both sides; the external "cortical shells" have constantly a ring-like constriction in the equatorial plane, and "twin-shells" are therefore like a figure of eight. The simplest form of this subfamily is Cyphanta, composed of a simple medullary shell and a simple cortical shell, the two being connected in the equatorial plane by radial beams. In Cyphonium (Pl. 39, fig. 12) the medullary shell is doubled, and in Cypassis (Pl. 39, fig. 13) the cortical shell likewise. On both poles of the main axis strong spines are often developed (Cyphinus, Pl. 39, fig. 14), or hollow fenestrated tubes (Cannartidium, Pl. 39, figs. 16-19).

The equatorial constriction of the ellipsoidal shell, which characterises the Artiscida and Cyphinida, is repeated or multiplied in the two following families, in the Panartida and Zygartida; in the former we find three ring-like strictures, in the latter five or more (lying in parallel transverse planes); therefore the fenestrated shell is composed in the one instance of four chambers, in the other of six or {287}more; all the chambers form a single series and have a common main axis. All constrictions lie in planes parallel to the equatorial plane of the original ellipsoid; in the centre of the latter constantly lies a double "medullary shell," composed of two concentric, either spherical or lenticular, compressed shells. In all Panartida we call the two inner chambers (on both sides of the equatorial constriction) "proximal chambers," the two outer chambers (on the poles of the main axis) "distal chambers." The four-chambered cortical shell of the Panartida is either simple (in Panartus, Pl. 40, figs. 1-4) or double, with an external mantle (as in Peripanartus, Pl. 40, figs. 5-7). The simplest form of the subfamily is Panartus (loc. cit.). In this case also on both poles of the main axis may be developed solid spines, or hollow fenestrated tubes (Panarium, Pl. 40, fig. 9).

The seventh and last family of the Prunoidea, the Zygartida is most nearly allied to the Panartida, and appears as a further developmental step from that family. Whilst in the Panartida the cortical shell is constantly four-chambered, with three parallel ring-like constrictions, in the Zygartida it is always prolonged and composed of six or more chambers, separated by five or more ring-shaped constrictions, in the middle of which is the equatorial stricture. In the centre of the latter (as also in the Panartida) always lies the double medullary shell, composed of two concentric, spherical, or lenticular shells. The number of the chambers of the cortical shells is commonly six or eight (with five to seven ring strictures), but it often mounts to ten and sometimes to twenty (with nineteen strictures), as in some species of Zygartus (Pl. 40, fig. 13). All the chambers lie in one series, one behind another, with a common main axis. The cortical shell is usually simple (in Ommatocampe, Pl. 40, fig. 10), sometimes double (in Desmocampe, Pl. 40, fig. 12), rarely triple (in Zygocampe, Pl. 40, fig. 13). In all three cases hollow fenestrated tubes may be developed on the poles of the main axis.

The morphological references and the phylogenetic affinities of all Prunoidea are so complex, that they seem to represent a quite natural group; all forms of it may be derived from the common ancestral form Cenellipsis. But a far more difficult question is the manner in which its pedigree may be constructed. The oldest family is probably the simplest, namely, Ellipsida. From this the Druppulida may be derived by production of medullary shells, the Artiscida by equatorial constriction. The Cyphinida can be produced either from the Druppulida by equatorial constriction or from the Artiscida by development of medullary shells. The Panartida appear as further developmental steps of the Cyphinida, by duplication of the chamber number; and the Zygartida as further productions of the Panartida, by increasing the number of the chambers.

The seven subfamilies of the Prunoidea can be arranged in two sections according to the presence or absence of medullary shells. The Ellipsida, Spongellipsida, and Artiscida possess a simple cortical shell, without a medullary shell; they represent the {288}section Cenoprunida. All other families possess medullary shells, and so represent the section Coccoprunida.

Another character, which can be employed in the arrangement of the seven subfamilies in some larger groups, is the presence or absence of ring-like constrictions, by which the cortical shell is divided into chambers. I. The Monoprunida comprise all forms without any constriction, of which the Ellipsida are without a medullary shell, the Druppulida with one or two medullary shells, and the Spongurida with a spongy cortical shell. II. The Dyoprunida contain all forms with a cortical twin shell, or with two chambers separated by one equatorial constriction, of which the Artiscida are without a medullary shell and the Cyphinida have one or two medullary shells. III. The Polyprunida comprise all forms with several (three or more) constrictions, which separate four or more chambers, of which the Panartida have three constrictions and four chambers, and the Zygartida five or more constrictions and six or more chambers.

The Central Capsule of the Prunoidea is originally ellipsoidal (monaxial), and preserves this form in the greater part of the genera. In some groups, where the axis of the ellipsoid is much prolonged, it passes over to the cylindrical form (with hemispherical vaultings on both poles), as in Spongurus and Spongocore, in many Panartida and Zygartida. Very often the ellipsoidal or cylindrical capsule gets annular transverse constrictions, corresponding to those of the enveloping cortical shell (one single, equatorial stricture in the Artiscida and Cyphinida, three strictures in the Panartida, five or more in the Zygartida). In the Cenoprunida (Ellipsida and Artiscida, also in Spongellipsis) the central capsule lies freely in the cavity of the cortical shell, separated from its inner surface by the jelly-envelope; in all other groups it contains a part of the skeleton, the medullary shell and the beams which connect it with the enveloping cortical shell.

Synopsis of the Families of Prunoidea.

Family XI. Ellipsida, Haeckel, 1882 (Pls. 13, 14, 39).

Definition.—Prunoidea with simple ellipsoidal shell, without equatorial stricture (without enclosed medullary shell); network a simple lattice lamella, not spongy. Central capsule ellipsoidal or cylindrical, without annular equatorial constriction.

The family Ellipsida comprises the simplest forms of Prunoidea, and probably represents the ancestral forms of this whole suborder. The fenestrated shell, which encloses the ellipsoidal central capsule, is a perfectly simple "cortical shell" of the same form, without enclosed "medullary shell." Its form is commonly a regular monaxial ellipsoid; sometimes a little modified by unequal growth of the two poles of the main axis. Two opposite large spines are often developed at these poles, or it may be that instead of these, two hollow fenestrated tubes are present.

The ellipsoidal fenestrated shell exhibits in the regular Ellipsida all the characters of a geometric ellipsoid; one main axis surpasses in length all other possible axes. All sections going through this main axis are "meridian sections," with elliptical periphery; all sections perpendicular to the main axis are "transverse sections," with circular periphery. The largest of these is the equatorial section, which divides the main axis into halves. The diameter of this equatorial plane is the "minor axis" of the ellipsoid.

The proportion of the two axes of the ellipsoidal shell, of the major vertical or main axis and the minor horizontal or equatorial axis, is commonly between 6 : 5 and 3 : 2. In the former case it approaches the spherical shell, from which it is derived; in the latter case it becomes almost fusiform or cylindrical. The network of silex, constituting the shell, is constantly a simple latticed lamella, never composed of concentric shells (as in Druppulida) or spongy (as in Spongurida). The network is often very regular and elegant, in other cases irregular.

The simplest genus among the Ellipsida, and probably the common ancestral form of the whole subfamily, is the genus Cenellipsis, possessing a simple ellipsoidal shell without any appendages. It is derived from Cenosphæra (the simplest spherical shell) by the prolongation of one axis. Cenellipsis passes over into Ellipsidium by the production of radial spines on the surface (corresponding to Heliosphæra). Axellipsis is a peculiar genus differing from Cenellipsis in an axial rod, which corresponds to the minor or equatorial axis. In all other genera of the subfamily both poles of the main axis are distinguished by peculiar polar prolongations, either hollow fenestrated tubes (as in Pipettella) or strong solid spines. Both polar spines are of equal size and similar form in Ellipsoxiphus, unequal in Ellipsostylus. From the latter is derived Lithapium, by reduction and loss of one spine (so that only one remains); Lithomespilus, by production of a bunch of several spines at one pole. In the three latter genera both poles of the main axis are unequal, in all others equal.

The central capsule of the Ellipsida is in all cases ellipsoidal, and occupies the largest part of the shell, being separated from its inner surface by a thinner or thicker jelly-mantle.

Synopsis of the Genera of Ellipsida.

Genus 122. Cenellipsis,^[161] n. gen.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal shell, without radial spines and without polar tubes.

The genus Cenellipsis is the simplest and most primitive form, not only among the Ellipsida, but also among the Prunoidea, and it may therefore be regarded as the common ancestral form of the whole family. It corresponds to Cenosphæra among the Sphæroidea, to Cenodiscus among the Discoidea, to Cenolarcus among the Larcoidea. Probably it is derived from Cenosphæra by prolongation of one axis.

Subgenus 1. Cenellipsium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the shell regular, with meshes of equal size and similar form.

Proportion of the longer axis of the ellipsoid to the shorter = 3 : 2. Network of the thin wall very delicate and regular, with hexagonal pores. All pores of nearly the same size and form, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars; nine to twelve on the half equator of the shell. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.09 to 0.11, shorter axis 0.06 to 0.08; pores 0.01, bars between them 0.001.

Proportion of the longer axis of the ellipsoid to the shorter = 4 : 3. Network of the thin wall delicate and regular. All the pores of the same size and form, circular, with a hexagonal frame, twice to three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Surface smooth or slightly spiny.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.12 to 0.13, shorter axis 0.09 to 0.1; pores 0.013, bars 0.005.

Haliomma (?) cenosphæra, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf xxvi. fig. 5.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 2 : 1. Network of the thin wall regular or subregular. All pores circular, nearly of the same size, without hexagonal frame, three to four times as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the half equator. Surface covered with small thorns.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.16 to 0.2, shorter axis 0.08 to 0.1; pores 0.1, bars 0.003.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 5 : 3. Network of the thin wall delicate and regular. All pores circular, nearly of the same size, without hexagonal frame, twice as broad as the bars; fifteen to twenty on the half equator. Surface quite smooth.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.15 to 0.2, shorter axis 0.09 to 0.12; pores 0.08, bars 0.4.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 5 : 4. Network of the thick wall quite regular. All pores circular, without hexagonal frame, very small, scarcely half as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. Surface quite smooth.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.1, shorter axis 0.08; pores 0.004, bars 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Cenellipsula, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the shell irregular, with meshes of different size or form.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 3 : 2 or = 5 : 3. Network of the thin wall very irregular, with polygonal meshes of different size and form (for the most part pentagonal or hexagonal, but also many tetragonal or heptagonal). The largest pores four to six times as broad as the smallest; ten to twenty pores on the half equator; bars between them thin. Surface smooth or somewhat spiny.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.18 to 0.22, shorter axis 0.1 to 0.12; pores 0.004 to 0.008, bars 0.001.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 3 : 2. Network of the thin wall very irregular, with polygonal meshes of very different size and form, twice to eight times as broad as the bars; fifty to sixty on the half equator. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.36, shorter axis 0.25; pores 0.004 to 0.015, bars 0.002.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 3 : 2. Network of the thin wall very irregular, with roundish or longish pores of very different size and form. Pores flat, with even margins, thirty to forty on the half equator, twice to six times as broad as the bars. Surface smooth. (This species being observed alive, showed a transparent central capsule of ellipsoidal form, two-thirds as large as the shell.)

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.3, shorter axis 0.2; pores 0.04 to 0.012, bars 0.002.

Habitat.—Indian Ocean, Ceylon, Haeckel; Pacific, central area, Station 266, surface.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 3 : 2. Network of the thick wall irregular, with roundish pores of different size and form. Pores funnel-like, with prominent, irregular, spiny {293}crests between them, their outer aperture three to four times as broad as the inner; twelve to fifteen pores on the half equator. Surface prickly.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.14, shorter axis 0.11; outer aperture of the pores 0.01 to 0.012, inner aperture 0.003 to 0.004.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 2 : 1. Network of the thick wall irregular, with roundish pores of different size and form. Pores with prominent conical edges, about as broad as the bars; twenty to twenty-five on the half equator. Sometimes each pore is prolonged into a short conical tubulus.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.22, shorter axis 0.12; pores and bars 0.008 to 0.012.

Genus 123. Axellipsis,^[162] n. gen.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal shell, without radial spines or polar tubes, but with an inner transverse axial rod, which corresponds to the shorter axis of the ellipsoid.

The genus Axellipsis differs from the simple Cenellipsis in a very peculiar character, namely, the presence of an inner siliceous bar marking the minor axis of the ellipsoidal shell. If in some forms of Druppula (e.g., Pl. 39, fig. 3) we remove the central medullary shell and prolong both beams (connecting it with the cortical shell) till they unite in the centre, we shall arrive at Axellipsis. Therefore Axellipsis may be derived in the same way from Druppula as Axoprunum is from Lithatractus, by phyletic loss of the medullary shell.

Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 3 : 2. Pores of the shell regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the shell 0.12, shorter axis 0.08; pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 5 : 4. Meshes of the shell irregular, roundish, lobed, with three to six indentations (each mesh formed by the confluence of three to six, commonly {294}four or five, smaller pores); eight to nine meshes on the half equator, these being twice to four times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the shell 0.1, shorter axis 0.08; pores 0.007 to 0.01, bars 0.003.

Genus 124. Ellipsidium,^[163] n. gen.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal shell, with numerous radial spines on the surface, without polar spines or tubes.

The genus Ellipsidium differs from Cenellipsis solely in the development of numerous radial spines on the surface, and exhibits the same phylogenetic relation to it that Heliosphæra bears to Cenosphæra.

Proportion of the longer axis of the ellipsoid to the shorter = 5 : 4. Shell thick walled, with regular and hexagonal meshes, twice as broad as the bars; eighteen to twenty on the half equator. In each hexagon-corner (between three pores) arises a short, three-sided pyramidal spine, half as long as the equatorial radius, and as thick at the base as a single mesh.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoid 0.15, minor 0.12; pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the radial spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.006.

Proportion of the longer axis of the ellipsoid to the shorter = 4 : 3. Shell thick walled, with regular, circular meshes, twice as broad as the thick bars between them eight to ten meshes on the half equator. Outer surface of the shell thorny, covered with short, conical, radial spines, which are regularly distributed (one spine between every three meshes), and about as long as the diameter of the meshes. (The shell is similar to the outer shell of Haliomma castanea, Haeckel, Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xxiv. fig. 4.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoid 0.12, minor axis 0.09; meshes 0.012, bars 0.006.

Habitat.—Western part of the Tropical Pacific, Station 225, depth 4475 fathoms.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 3 : 2. Shell thick walled, with regular, circular meshes, separated by deep furrows, which represent a regular, hexagonal framework; on the half equator twelve to fifteen meshes, scarcely broader than the broad bars between them. Outer {295}surface spiny; between every three meshes arises a strong radial spine, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the meshes; the base of the spine is like a three-sided pyramid.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoid 0.12, minor axis 0.08; meshes 0.006, bars 0.005.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 5 : 4. Shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish meshes of different size and form, about twice to three times as broad as the irregular, thin bars between them; ten to fifteen meshes on the half equator. Between the meshes arise numerous thin, bristle-like, radial spines, about as long as the shorter radius of the shell. The number of the meshes may be three to four times as great as the number of the spines.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoid 0.15, minor axis 0.12; pores 0.006 to 0.01, bars 0.003 to 0.004.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 4 : 3. Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores of different size and form, about as large or somewhat smaller than the broad bars; twelve to sixteen pores on the half equator. On the surface, irregularly scattered, twenty to thirty strong, three-sided pyramidal, radial spines, one-fourth to one-half as long as the main axis.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoid 0.16, minor 0.12; pores and bars 0.002 to 0.008; length of the radial spines 0.04 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.01.

Genus 125. Ellipsoxiphus,^[164] Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, vol. xlv. p. 25.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal shell, the main axis of which is prolonged at both poles into two strong opposite spines of equal size and similar form.

The genus Ellipsoxiphus was established by Dunikowski (in 1882, loc. cit.) for those simple amphistylous fenestrated shells, formerly united with Xiphosphæra, in which the mathematical form of the shell itself is not a true sphere, but an ellipsoid. It may therefore be derived from Xiphosphæra by prolongation of the axis in which lie both polar spines; but it may also be derived from Cenellipsis by the production of two equal spines at the poles of the main axis.

Subgenus 1. Ellipsoxiphetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the shell regular, with pores of equal size and similar form.

Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 5 : 4. Shell thick walled, with regular, circular meshes, separated by a regular, hexagonal elevated framework. From each hexagon-corner arises (between every three meshes) a short thin spine, about as long as the diameter of a mesh; twelve to fourteen meshes on the half equator, of the same breadth as the bars. Polar spines three-sided prismatic, cuspidate, about as long as the axis of the shell. (This elegant and not uncommon species is remarkable for its variations. By unequal development of both spines it passes over to Ellipsostylus.) In the figured variety (Pl. 14, fig. 7) the ends of the surface spines are connected by a very delicate network, so as to form an outer veil. This may further be separated as a peculiar genus Ellipsoxiphium palliatum.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.08 to 0.13, shorter axis 0.06 to 0.11; pores and bars 0.008; length of the polar spines 0.06 to 0.12, basal breadth 0.01.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, from 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 6 : 5. Shell very thick walled, with regular, hexagonal meshes, eight to nine on the half equator, three to four times as broad as the bars. The inner contour of the meshes is circular, the outer six-lobed (similar to Xiphostylus phasianus, Pl. 13, fig. 9). Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the major axis of the shell; their basal thickness equals one mesh.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.12, shorter axis 0.1; pores 0.012 to 0.015, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.12 to 0.15, basal breadth 0.015.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell thin walled, with regular, circular meshes, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines cylindrical, at the apex conical, half as long as the major axis.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.16, shorter axis 0.12; pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.09, basal breadth 0.008.

Subgenus 2. Ellipsoxiphilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the shell irregular, with pores of different size or form.

Xiphosphæra clavigera, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 5 : 4. Shell thick walled, with irregular network; meshes roundish or circular, double contoured, of unequal size, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Polar spines club-shaped, with prominent edges, about as long as the minor axis; thicker in their middle part than at both ends (differs from Xiphosphæra clavigera by the ellipsoidal form of the shell, and the double length of the spines).

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.15. shorter axis 0.12; pores 0.007 to 0.015, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.12, thickness in the middle part 0.02.

Ellipsoxiphus suessi, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 26, Taf. v. fig. 50.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 7 : 5. Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish meshes, six to eight on the half equator, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Polar spines nearly cylindrical, blunt, as long as the major axis.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.14; shorter axis 0.1; pores 0.018 to 0.023, bars 0.01; length of the polar spines 0.12; thickness of them 0.035.

Ellipsoxiphus parvoforaminus, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, Bd. xlv. p. 26, Taf. v. fig. 51.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 7 : 6. Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish or oval meshes, ten to twelve on the half equator, scarcely as broad as the bars. Polar spines conical, shorter than the minor axis.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.14, shorter axis 0.12; pores 0.016 to 0.01, bars 0.01 to 0.02; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal thickness 0.045.

Xiphosphæra bipolaris, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 8 : 7. Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish meshes, twice to three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Polar spines short and thick, three-sided pyramidal, scarcely half as long as the shorter radius of the shell; surrounding the base of every spine is a circle of eight to nine shorter spines.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.08, shorter axis 0.07; pores 0.003 to 0.007, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.02 to 0.03, basal thickness 0.02.

Habitat.—Tropical part of the Western Pacific, Station 225, depth 4475 fathoms.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 3 : 2. Shell spindle-shaped, very thick walled, with roundish, very irregular meshes, twice to five times as broad as the bars; eight to twelve on the half equator. The meshes are partly simple, oblong, partly lobed or composed of two to four (commonly three) confluent meshes. Surface smooth. Polar spines very short and thick, shorter than the minor radius of the shell, three-sided pyramidal, with prominent, somewhat contorted edges.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.15, shorter axis 0.1; meshes 0.007 to 0.02, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.04, basal thickness 0.03.

Genus 126. Axoprunum,^[165] n. gen.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal shell, the main axis of which is prolonged at both poles into two opposite spines of equal size and similar form. Within the cavity of the shell four radial rods arise from its inner surface, two in the main axis, two in the smallest axis, perpendicular to the former; their free inner ends are at the same distance from the centre.

The genus Axoprunum possesses precisely the same shell as the foregoing Ellipsoxiphus, but differs from it in a very remarkable peculiarity. The two polar spines are centripetally prolonged into two internal beams, and perpendicular to these are two other, opposite, transverse beams, marking the minor axis of the ellipsoid. The free inner ends of all four radial rods bear little thickened knobs, and are at the same distance from the centre. It therefore appears as though a central, spherical, medullary shell had been lost, and this gives a strong support to the important hypothesis, that in many Sphærellaria, where the medullary shell is absent, it may have been lost by phylogenetic reduction or retrograde metamorphosis. In this case Axoprunum (and Ellipsoxiphus) would arise from Lithatractus.

Shell ellipsoidal, one and one-third times as long as broad, with smooth surface. Network regular, with circular meshes four times as broad as the bars. Two polar spines three-sided pyramidal, half as long as the shell, as thick at the base as a single mesh. Four inner radial beams (lying, two in the major and two in the minor axis of the ellipsoid) very thin, at the central free ends knob-like, thickened. The distance between two opposite beams equals one-third of the minor axis, and indicates probably the diameter of the lost spherical medullary shell. (Three perfect and complete specimens of the same size and shape were observed.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoid 0.14, minor axis 0.11; pores 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the polar spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.012. (Diameter of the lost medullary shell 0.03?)

Genus 127. Ellipsostylus,^[166] n. gen.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal shell, the main axis of which is prolonged at both poles into two opposite spines of different size or form.

The genus Ellipsostylus differs from Ellipsoxiphus only in the unequal size or different form of the polar spines, which in the former are equal. This difference does not seem important at first, but in the further development it produces very singular and strange forms. Theoretically it is always important, because the fundamental haplopolar form of the monaxon body becomes diplopolar by this differentiation.

Subgenus 1. Ellipsostyletta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the shell regular, with pores of equal size and similar form.

Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell thin walled, with regular, circular meshes and hexagonal framework between them, like that of Xiphostylus favosus (Pl. 13, fig. 4). Circular pores about as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, as broad at the base as a single hexagon; the longer spine as long as the major axis, the shorter half as long.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoidal shell 0.16, shorter axis 0.12; pores and bars 0.006; length of the longer polar spine 0.16, of the shorter 0.08.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 3 : 2. Shell thick walled, with regular, rosette-shaped meshes, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Every mesh on the outer margin with five to six rounded lobes, as in Xiphostylus phasianus (Pl. 13, fig. 9). Surface smooth. Polar spines sharp edged, thick; the longer straight and equal to the longer axis, the shorter half as long, shaped like a bird's head.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell thin walled, with regular or subregular rosette-shaped meshes, twice as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the half equator; each mesh with three to four rounded lobes. Surface smooth. Polar spines sharp edged, very unequal; longer spine about twice as long as the major axis, somewhat curved; shorter spine scarcely longer than the radius, shaped like a bird's head.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.08, shorter axis 0.06; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines—longer 0.15, shorter 0.05.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 7 : 6. Shell thick walled, with subregular, circular meshes, five to six times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines sharp edged (six-sided?), very unequal; longer spine straight, about equal to the minor axis; shorter spine obliquely inserted, scarcely half as long, shaped like a bird's head.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.15, shorter axis 0.13; pores 0.02, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines—longer 0.1, shorter 0.05.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell egg-shaped, thin walled, with regular, circular meshes, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Surface somewhat thorny. Polar spines nearly of equal length (equal to the major axis), but of very different form; one straight, pyramidal, and obliquely inserted, the other like a bird's head.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.08, shorter 0.06; pores 0.003, bars 0.01; length of the spines 0.09.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 7 : 5. Shell egg-shaped, thick walled; the meshes very small, regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Surface uneven. Polar spines nearly cylindrical, pointed; the smaller obliquely inserted, equal to the major axis; the larger more than twice as long and thick, furrowed at its base. (Compare with this and the allied species Rhabdolithis pipa, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. i. fig. 27.)

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.07, shorter 0.05; pores 0.003, bars 0.001; length of the polar spines—longer 0.2, shorter 0.08.

Subgenus 2. Ellipsostylissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the shell irregular, with pores of different size or form.

Stylosphæra megadictya, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 299, Taf. viii. fig. 13.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 5 : 4. Shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish, large meshes, four to five times as broad as the bars; only four to five on the half equator. Surface smooth. Polar spines straight, thin, angular; the shorter equal to the minor axis, the longer four times as large.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.05, shorter axis 0.04; meshes 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines—longer 0.12, shorter 0.03.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 3 : 2. Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish meshes, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Surface thorny. Polar spines conical, straight; the longer twice as long as the major axis, the minor scarcely half as long.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.15, shorter 0.12; pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.002 to 0.004.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish meshes, three to five times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. The inner aperture of every mesh is fenestrated by a delicate lamella of silex, perforated by six to eight very small circular pores. Polar spines sharp edged, more or less curved, the shorter equal to the minor axis, the longer twice as long.

Dimensions.—Longer axis 0.16, shorter 0.12; pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.003 to 0.006; length of the polar spines—longer 0.24, shorter 0.12.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; the same form also fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Genus 128. Lithomespilus,^[167] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 450.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal or oviform shell, the main axis of which bears at one pole a single spine, at the other a bunch of several spines.

The genus Lithomespilus differs from the closely allied Ellipsoxiphus in the further differentiation of both poles of the main axis. One pole exhibits only a single polar spine, the other pole a group of several spines, peculiarly grouped together. It differs from the similar Sphæromespilus (Pl. 14, figs. 12, 13) in the ellipsoidal form of the shell.

Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell thick walled, with circular pores of different size, the breadth of which equals that of the bars; twelve to fifteen pores on the half equator. Surface smooth, with the exception of a circumpolar region covered with numerous thick spines of unequal size, which surround the large single polar spine and are curved like a bow against its axis. This larger polar spine is straight, and equals in length the major axis of the shell. The other and opposite polar spine is scarcely one-fourth as long, perfectly simple, very stout, and of a three-sided pyramidal shape.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoidal shell 0.08, shorter axis 0.06; pores 0.002 to 0.006, bars 0.003 to 0.005; length of the polar spines—longer 0.08, shorter 0.02.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 5 : 4. Shell very thick walled, with roundish, double-contoured pores of different size and form, twice to three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen pores on the half equator. Surface smooth, with the exception of a circumpolar region covered with numerous thin spines of unequal size, which surround the large single polar spine and are curved like a bow against its axis. This larger polar spine is straight, and equals half the size of the major axis of the shell; the other polar spine (sometimes double, as in the figured specimen) is much shorter, being scarcely one-fourth as long.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the shell 0.08, shorter axis 0.065; pores 0.003 to 0.006, bars 0.002 to 0.004; length of the polar spines—longer 0.04, shorter 0.01.

Habitat.—Central area of the Pacific, Stations 270 to 272, depth 2425 to 2925 fathoms.

Stylosphæra species, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xi. fig. 3.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, about as broad as the bars; ten to twelve pores on the half equator. Surface spiny. Length of the conical straight spines increasing towards the poles; each polar spine surrounded by a circumpolar group of larger, somewhat curved spines. The larger polar spine equals in length the major axis; the smaller is scarcely half as long. (The figure, given by Bury, is not quite exact; there the spines are situated in the pores, instead of between them. In my specimen the polar spines were not branched.)

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the shell 0.12, shorter axis 0.09; pores and bars 0.004 to 0.006; length of the polar spines—longer 0.12, shorter 0.06.

Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3. Shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish pores, partly simple, partly composed of three to six confluent pores; only six to eight pores on the half equator, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Surface spiny. Length of the conical irregular spines increasing towards the poles; each polar spine surrounded by a flame-shaped, circumpolar area of longer spines; all large spines (also the polar spines) curved or contorted at one pole and much stronger and more numerous than at the other; length variable, often equal to the longer axis.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the shell 0.12, shorter axis 0.09; pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.003 to 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.1 to 0.15.

Habitat.—Western part of the Tropical Atlantic, Station 347, depth 2250 fathoms.

Genus 129. Lithapium,^[168] n. gen.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal or pear-shaped shell; with a single spine only situated at one pole of the main axis.

The genus Lithapium represents a peculiar modification of Ellipsoxiphus; one of the two opposite polar spines disappears by reduction, and in this way only a single spine remains, at one pole of the main axis. For this reason the shell assumes a characteristic pear-shape, and may easily be confounded with some similar Monocyrtida (Halicapsa).

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 6 : 5. Shell thin walled, with regular, circular pores, four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. Surface a little thorny. The single polar spines three-sided pyramidal, as broad at the base as one mesh, about as long as the radius of the shell. (In the specimen figured, there was on the opposite pole a little rudiment of the other lost polar spine; it is missing in other specimens.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoidal shell 0.12, minor axis 0.1; pores 0.02, bars 0.005; length of the single polar spine 0.05, basal thickness 0.02.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 6 : 5. Shell thin walled, with irregular, lobed meshes, six to eight on the half equator, twice to five times as broad as the bars; each mesh {304}composed of two to five confluent roundish pores. Surface a little thorny. The single polar spine pyramidal, as broad at the base as one mesh, one-third as long as the axis.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor axis 0.1; pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.002 to 0.006; length of the single polar spine 0.03, basal thickness 0.02.

Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 7 : 6. Shell thick walled, with irregular, lobed meshes, four to six on the half equator, three to six times as broad as the bars; each mesh composed of three to six confluent roundish pores. Surface quite smooth, without thorns. The single polar spine pyramidal, as broad at the base as the largest mesh, half as long as the radius. (This species is closely allied to the foregoing, but differs in the smooth surface and the larger meshes.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor axis 0.13; pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.003 to 0.01; length of the single spine 0.04, basal thickness 0.03.

Genus 130. Pipettella,^[169] n. gen.

Definition.—Ellipsida with simple ellipsoidal shell, the main axis of which is prolonged at the pole into two opposite hollow fenestrated tubes of equal size and similar form.

The genus Pipettella is distinguished from the other Ellipsida by two hollow perforated tubes, which are directed in the longer axis of the ellipsoidal shell and arise from opposite poles of this axis. It may be derived from Cenellipsis by prolongation of both poles of the main axis. As the same peculiar production of two opposite latticed tubuli at the poles of the main axis obtains in nearly all families of Prunoidea (Pipetta, Cannartus, Panarium, Zygartus, &c.), it may possess a peculiar value in this group.

Shell spindle-shaped, thin walled, the two opposite tubes being conical and not longer than the short transverse axis of the ellipsoidal shell; no sharp demarcation between them. The two axes of the ellipsoid bear the proportion of 3 : 2. Network of the shell and of the tubes equal, delicate, regular, hexagonal, with circular apertures of equal size; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator of the shell. Bars very thin. The shell of this species is similar to that of Cannartiscus amphiconiscus (Pl. 39, fig. 19), but possesses no equatorial stricture and no medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.18, shorter axis 0.12; length of the tubes 0.1, their basal breadth 0.05; pores of the network 0.01, bars 0.001.

Shell ellipsoidal, thin walled, distinctly separated from the two opposite tubes, which are cylindrical, longer than the main axis of the ellipsoid, and one-sixth as broad as the shorter axis. The longer axis of the ellipsoid bears to the shorter the proportion of 5 : 4. Network of the shell and of the tubes equal, regular, with very small circular pores, about as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen pores on the half equator of the shell.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.15, shorter axis 0.12; length of the tubes 0.16 to 0.2, breadth of them 0.02; pores of the network 0.003, bars 0.003.

Shell ellipsoidal, thick walled, distinctly separated from both opposite tubes, which are cylindrical, much prolonged, twice to three times as long as the main axis of the ellipsoid, and one-fifth as broad as the shorter axis. Both axes of the ellipsoid bear the proportion of 3 : 2. Network of the shell and of the tubes irregular with small rounded pores of different size, separated by broader bars (often twice to three times as broad), four to six pores on the half equator of the shell. (This species somewhat recalls Solenosphæra serpentina, Pl. 7, fig. 7; but the tubes are straight, not contorted.)

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.2, shorter axis 0.14; length of the tubes 0.4 to 0.5, breadth 0.03; pores of the network 0.001 to 0.002, bars 0.003 to 0.004.

Shell ellipsoidal, thick walled, distinctly marked off from the two opposite tubes, which are longer than its main axis and as broad as one-fifth of it; they are nearly four-sided prismatic, with four strong ribs or edges; these are directed parallel to the main axis, in two meridian planes, perpendicular to one another. The wall of the shell is thickened in the equatorial plane, so as to form a slight stricture on the inside, separating its two halves. Both axes of the ellipsoid bear the proportion of 7 : 6. Network regular, with circular pores, somewhat broader than the bars. The meshes of the shell (fourteen to sixteen on the half equator) are twice as great as those of the tubes, which are arranged in two longitudinal rows between every two ribs (there being eight longitudinal rows on the whole tube). This species is very remarkable for the rudimentary internal equatorial stricture of the shell (transition to the genus Cannartus, Pl. 39, fig. 10), and by the four edges of the tubes, which indicate two of the dimensive axes, the third being represented by the main axis.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.14, shorter axis 0.12; length of the tubes 0.15 to 0.16, breadth 0.03; pores of the shell 0.008 to 0.01, pores of the tubes 0.004.

Family XII. Druppulida, Haeckel, 1882 (Pls. 15, 16, 17, 39).

Definition.—Prunoidea with ellipsoidal, latticed (not spongy) shell, composed of two or more concentric shells; a simple or double cortical shell enclosing one or two internal concentric shells (medullary shells), without equatorial stricture. Central capsule ellipsoidal or cylindrical, without annular equatorial constriction.

The family Druppulida differs from the Ellipsida only in the possession of a simple or double medullary shell, which is enclosed in the centre of the central capsule, and connected with the ellipsoidal cortical shell (lying outside it) by radial beams, perforating the membrane of the capsule. The Druppulida exhibit therefore the same relation to the Ellipsida that the Dyosphærida among the Sphæroidea bear to the Monosphærida. The cortical shell may be simple or multiple. The whole fenestrated shell is thus composed of a variable number (two at least) of concentric shells, which are connected by radial beams.

The Medullary Shell—enclosed in the centre of the central capsule—is either simple or double, and composed of two small concentric shells. Their form is either spherical, or ellipsoidal, or lenticular. If the medullary shell be ellipsoidal, the main axis of the ellipsoid is the same as in the cortical shell. Sometimes the inner medullary shell is spherical, the outer ellipsoidal or lenticular. If the medullary shell be lenticular (arising from both poles of the main axis) its vertical axis is also identical with that of the cortical shell (Pl. 39, fig. 5).

The Radial Beams, which connect the medullary and cortical shell, are either developed in all possible directions (Pls. 16, 17), or limited to the equatorial plane, more rarely to the meridional plane. Sometimes the connection is produced only by two opposite beams which lie in the minor or equatorial axis (Pl. 39, figs. 3, 7, 8); more rarely in the major or meridional axis (Pl. 17, figs. 7, 8).

The Cortical Shell is constantly ellipsoidal, rarely with modifications, similar to those which appear in the simple shell of some Ellipsida. As a rule it is simple, rarely composed of two or more (sometimes six or more) concentric ellipsoidal shells (in Cromyodruppa and Cromyocarpus). The outer surface is commonly smooth, more rarely covered with radial spines (in Druppocarpus, Prunocarpus, &c.). In the majority peculiar polar appendages are developed at both poles of the main axis, these being prolongations of them, either in the form of hollow fenestrated tubes (Pipetta, Pipettaria, Pl. 39, figs. 7, 8), or solid strong spines. The two polar spines are either equal in size and similar in form (as in Lithatractus, Stylatractus) or unequal (as in Druppatractus, Xiphatractus, Pls. 16, 17).

The most primitive of all Druppulida is Druppula, with simple medullary shell and simple cortical shell (Pl. 39, fig. 3); Prunulum differs from it only in the possession {307}of a double medullary shell (Pl. 39, fig. 4). From these two genera all other forms of the subfamily may be derived.

The Central Capsule of the Druppulida is constantly ellipsoidal, larger than the concentric enclosed medullary shells, smaller than the surrounding cortical shell; it is separated from the inner surface of the latter by a thinner or thicker jelly-mantle.

Synopsis of the Genera of the Druppulida.

Genus 131. Druppula,^[170] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal, cortical shell, and simple medullary shell, without spines or polar tubes.

The genus Druppula, as the simplest form of the Druppulida, may be regarded as the common ancestral form of this subfamily. It may be derived phylogenetically either {308}from Carposphæra by prolongation of one axis, or from Cenellipsis by duplication of the fenestrated shell. The outer (or cortical) shell is always more or less ellipsoidal; the inner (or medullary) shell also is sometimes ellipsoidal, sometimes spherical. Both shells are concentric, connected by a variable number of radial beams. Compare Haliomma oblongum, Harting, 1863, L. N. 18, p. 15, pl. 2, fig. 42.

Subgenus 1. Druppuletta, Haeckel.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface and regular network; both its axes bear the proportion of 4 : 3. Pores regular, hexagonal, three times as broad as the bars; twelve to fifteen on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, about one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoidal cortical shell 0.1 to 0.12, minor axis 0.08 to 0.09; pores 0.06, bars 0.02; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03.

Habitat.—Western Tropical Pacific, Station 225, depth 4475 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Cortical shell thin walled, somewhat rough, with regular network; both its axes bear the proportion of 3 : 2. Pores subregular, circular, hexagonally framed, one and a half times as broad as the elevated bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, one-fourth as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.16 to 0.17, minor axis 0.11 to 0.12; pores 0.01, bars 0.007; diameter of the medullary shell 0.035.

Cortical shell thick walled, somewhat rough, with regular network; proportion of both axes = 6 : 5. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, quite as broad as the elevated bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. Medullary shell ellipsoidal (with longitudinal main axis), nearly half as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.07 to 0.08, minor axis 0.6 to 0.65; pores and bars 0.003 to 0.004; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03 and 0.035.

Habitat.—Western Tropical Pacific, Station 222, surface, Indian Ocean, Ceylon, Haeckel.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular network; proportion of both axes = 5 : 4. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally lobulate (in the same manner as in Stauroxiphus gladius, {309}Pl. 15, fig. 7), three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Medullary shell ellipsoidal (with longitudinal main axis), one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.1, minor axis 0.08; pores 0.009, bars 0.003; axis of the medullary shell 0.03 and 0.025.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface and regular network; both its axes bear the proportion of 4 : 3. Pores regular, circular, four times as broad as the bars; fifteen to eighteen on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, half as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoidal cortical shell 0.12 to 0.14, minor axis 0.1 to 0.11; pores 0.008, bars 0.002; diameter of the medullary shell 0.05 to 0.06.

Haliomma ovatum, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., pl. xx. I. fig. 20.

Haliomma ovatum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 432.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface and regular network; proportion of both axes = 3 : 2. Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.08 to 0.1, minor axis 0.05 to 0.06; pores 0.003, bars 0.001; diameter of the medullary shell 0.02.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of the Mediterranean coast, Greece (Zante), Ehrenberg; Sicily (Caltanisetta), Haeckel.

Cortical shell thick walled, with rough surface and regular network; proportion of both axes = 5 : 4. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Medullary shell ellipsoidal, one-third as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.2 to 0.22, minor 0.16 to 0.18, pores 0.008, bars 0.004; axes of the medullary shell 0.07 and 0.055.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 266 to 268, depth 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Subgenus 2. Druppulissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pores of the cortical shell irregular, of different form or size, usually subcircular or roundish, sometimes lobed or compound.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular network; its two axes bear the proportion 3 : 2. Pores subcircular or irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; fifteen to twenty on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, about one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.15 to 0.2, minor axis 0.1 to 0.14; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.03; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Haliomma ellipticum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., loc. cit., p. 88, Taf. i. fig. 11.

Cortical shell thin walled, rough, or thorny, with irregular network; proportion of the axes = 3 : 2. Pores subcircular or irregular, roundish, about as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Medullary shell half as broad as the cortical shell, irregularly polyhedral (with crooked beams in its interior).

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor 0.06; pores and bars 0.006; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily: Grotte (Stöhr), Caltanisetta (Haeckel).

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with irregular network; proportion of the axes = 5 : 4. Pores subcircular or irregular, roundish, three to four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half equator; every pore is closed at the bottom by a thin membrane, perforated by four to six irregular pores (like Stylatractus sethoporus, Pl. 17, fig. 3). Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.2, minor axis 0.16; pores 0.03, bars 0.01; small enclosed porules 0.01; diameter of the medullary shell 0.05.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, with irregular network; proportion of the axes = 5 : 4. Pores irregular, roundish, three to four times as broad as the bars; lobed or composed of several conjugated porules (as in Lithapium halicapsa, Pl. 14, fig. 8); five to six large pores on the half equator. Medullary shell ellipsoidal, about one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.15, minor 0.12; pores 0.02 to 0.03, bars 0.007; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Genus 132. Druppocarpus,^[171] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and simple medullary shell, with numerous radial spines, without polar tubes.

The genus Druppocarpus differs from Druppula only in the radial spines, which arise between the pores of the cortical shell, and therefore exhibits the same relation to it that Ellipsidium bears to Cenellipsis, or Prunocarpus to Prunulum.

Subgenus 1. Druppocarpetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular, with meshes of equal size and similar form.

Cortical shell thin walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, of about the same breadth as the elevated bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. From each hexagon-corner (between every three pores) arises a short thin radial spine, about as long as two pores, three-sided pyramidal at the base. Proportion of both cortical axes = 4 : 3. Medullary shell spherical, half as broad as the cortical shell. (Greatly resembles Druppula pandanus, Pl. 39, fig. 3, but differs in the larger medullary shell and the spines on the surface.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoidal cortical shell 0.16, minor 0.12; pores and bars 0.006; length of the radial spines 0.02; diameter of the medullary shell 0.06.

Cortical shell thin walled, with regular circular pores (without hexagonal frames), of about the same breadth as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the half equator. Between every three meshes arise a short conical spine with bristle-like apex, twice to four times as long as one pore. Proportion of both cortical axes = 3 : 2. Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical. (Resembles very closely the spherical Haliomma castanea, Haeckel, figured in my Monograph. pl. xxiv. fig. 4.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor axis 0.1; pores and bars 0.005; length of the radial spines 0.01 to 0.02; medullary shell 0.035.

Subgenus 2. Druppocarpissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell irregular, with meshes of different size or form.

Cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish, or subcircular pores of very different size, twice to six times as broad as the thin bars; eight to twelve on the half equator. Between them arise numerous thin, bristle-like radial spines, about half as long as the equatorial axis, and equal to the diameter of the spherical medullary shell; pores of the latter subregular, circular, very small. (Resembles Prunocarpus artocarpus, Pl. 39, fig. 5, but differs in the simple spherical medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.09; meshes 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.003; length of the radial spines 0.05; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, in the Strait of Gibraltar, Algesiras, Haeckel, surface.

Cortical shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish, or subcircular pores, three to five times as broad as the bars; twelve to fifteen on the half equator. Irregularly scattered on the surface about twenty to thirty short conical spines; their length equals their basal breadth and the diameter of the largest pores. Medullary shell ellipsoidal, half as large as the cortical.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.1, minor 0.08; pores 0.006 to 0.01, bars 0.002; length and thickness of the radial spines 0.01; axes of the medullary shell 0.05 and 0.04.

Cortical shell thick walled, with irregular, funnel-like, roundish pores, scarcely as broad as the bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Irregularly scattered on the surface about fifteen to twenty three-sided pyramidal radial spines, half as long as the equatorial axis, and as the diameter of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.17, minor 0.14; pores and bars 0.003 to 0.009; length of the radial spines 0.08; diameter of the medullary shell 0.09.

Genus 133. Prunulum,^[172] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and double medullary shell; without spines or polar tubes.

The genus Prunulum differs from Druppula in the double (not simple) medullary shell, which is sometimes spherical, sometimes ellipsoidal; it may be derived either from Druppula by duplication of the medullary shell, or from Thecosphæra by prolongation of one axis.

Subgenus 1. Prunuletta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular, with meshes of equal size and similar form.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, hexagonal pores, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 4 : 3. Both medullary shells spherical. (Differs from Druppula drupa almost entirely in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoidal cortical shell 0.12, minor 0.09; pores 0.006, bars 0.002; diameter of both medullary shells 0.05 and 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with circular, hexagonally framed pores, of the same breadth as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. Proportion of the two axes of the ellipsoid = 5 : 4. Both medullary shells spherical. (The cortical shell resembles that of Pipetta tuba, Pl. 39, fig. 7, without the polar tubes.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor 0.12; pores and bars 0.007; diameter of the medullary shells 0.08 and 0.04.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular, hexagonally lobulated pores, three times as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the half equator (of the same form as in Druppula phœnix and in Stauroxiphos gladius, Pl. 15, fig. 7). Proportion of the two axes = 6 : 5. Inner medullary shell spherical, outer ellipsoidal.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.1; pores 0.009, bars 0.003; diameter of the medullary shells 0.07 and 0.04.

Cortical shell thin walled, slightly rough, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; twelve to fifteen on the half equator. Proportion of both axes = 4 : 3. Both medullary shells spherical.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.09; pores 0.006, bars 0.003; diameter of the medullary shells 0.06 and 0.03.

? Haliomma crenatum, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxii. fig. 36.

Actinomma crenatum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 94, Taf. iii. fig. 3.

Caryolithis crenata, Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 43.

Cortical shell thick walled, slightly rough or thorny, with small, regular, circular pores, of the same breadth as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. Proportion of the two axes = 4 : 3. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal. (The figure of Stöhr represents exactly the fossil form, as I have observed it myself in the Caltanisetta rocks, whilst the figure of Ehrenberg is inaccurate and doubtful. The same form, somewhat variable in size and in the number of the pores, I have also observed in the Pacific ooze.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.14 to 0.17, minor 0.1 to 0.13; pores and bars 0.006; main axes of the medullary shells 0.09 and 0.03.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily (Grotte and Caltanisetta); living in the Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms.

Haliomma triplex, Ehrenberg, 1854, Microgeol., Taf. xxxvB. fig. Biv., q.

Actinomma triplex, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 444.

Cortical shell thin walled, covered with numerous very thin, short, bristle-like spines. Pores small, regular, circular, of the same breadth as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. Proportion of the two axes = 3 : 2. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal. The description of Ehrenberg—as is very often the case—is quite incongruent with his figure. From a combination of both I give here the diagnosis of a deep-sea species, which is possibly identical with it. The velvet-like covering of very short and thin bristles is peculiarly characteristic of this species.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.1, minor 0.065; pores and bars 0.004; main axes of the medullary shells 0.04 and 0.02.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, 1800 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 353, depth 2965 fathoms.

Subgenus 2. Prunulissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell irregular, with meshes of different form or size (usually roundish, but sometimes lobed or compound).

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface and irregular, roundish, double-contoured pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Some of the pores are simple, often subcircular, others lobed, i.e., composed of from two to three confluent pores as in Amphisphæra pluto (Pl. 17, fig. 7). Proportion of the two axes = 3 : 2. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal (or the inner spherical).

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.08; pores 0.06 to 0.012, bars 0.003; main axes of the medullary shells 0.05 and 0.025.

Actinomma fenestratum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 94, Taf. iii. fig. 2.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, with irregular, roundish pores, once to three times as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the half equator. Proportion of the two axes = 9 : 8. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal. (The pores in Stöhr's description are by mistake called "regular"; in the figure they are very irregular, as also in the fossil specimens observed by myself. Between the cortical pores arise very short irregular thorns.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12 to 0.15, minor 0.1 to 0.12; pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.003; main axis of the outer medullary shell 0.07 to 0.09, of the inner 0.03 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily; Grotte, Stöhr, Caltanisetta, Haeckel.

Cortical shell very thick walled, smooth, with large irregular, roundish pores, three to four times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. The bottom of each funnel-like pore is closed by a thin siliceous membrane, perforated by three to five irregular roundish pores. Proportion of the two axes = 4 : 3. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal. (Closely resembles Stylatractus sethoporus, Pl. 17, figs. 2, 3, but is devoid of the polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.16, minor 0.12; pores 0.015 to 0.02, bars 0.005; porules 0.01; main axes of the medullary shells 0.07 and 0.03.

Genus 134. Prunocarpus,^[173] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and double medullary shell, with numerous radial spines, but without polar tubes.

The genus Prunocarpus differs from Prunulum only in the radial spines of the cortical shell, and exhibits therefore the same relation to it that Druppocarpus bears to Druppula. While in the latter the medullary shell is simple, in the former it is double.

Subgenus 1. Prunocarpetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular, with meshes of equal size and similar form.

Cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Between every three meshes arises a short conical spine, twice to three times as long as one pore. Both medullary shells spherical. (Differs mainly from Ellipsidium datura and from Druppocarpus castanea in the double medullary shell. The outer network resembles Haliomma castanea, figured 1862 in my Monograph, Taf. xxiv. fig. 4.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoid 0.16, minor 0.12; pores 0.012, bars 0.006; length of the radial spines 0.03; diameter of the medullary shells 0.06 and 0.04.

Cortical shell thick walled, with very small, numerous, regular, circular pores, of the same size as the bars; forty to fifty on the half equator. Between them over the entire surface occur small conical spines. Irregularly scattered over the surface ten to twenty larger conical spines, three to six times as thick at the base as one pore, one-fourth to one-half as long as the main axis. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.16, of the outer medullary shell 0.11, of the inner 0.06; equatorial axis of the first shell 0.12, of the second 0.08, of the third 0.04; pores and bars on an average 0.005; length of the spines 0.05 to 0.1, basal breadth 0.02 to 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Prunocarpilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell irregular, with meshes of different size or form.

Cortical shell thin walled with irregular, roundish pores of very different sizes, twice to nine times as broad as the thin bars; ten to fifteen on the half equator. Between them arise numerous bristle-shaped, radial spines, with conical base, on an average one-fourth to two-thirds as long as the equatorial axis. The outer medullary shell, with irregular, roundish pores, presents a transverse ellipsoid, its main axis lying in the equatorial axis of the cortical shell, whilst its equatorial axis corresponds to the main axis of the latter. Inner medullary shell very small, spherical, with very small pores.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.14, of the outer medullary shell 0.05; minor axis of the former 0.1, of the latter 0.035; diameter of the inner medullary shell 0.014; pores of the cortical shell 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.002; length of the radial spines 0.02 to 0.06.

Cortical shell thick walled, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times as broad as the bars; eighteen to twenty-four on the half equator. Between them arise over the entire surface small conical thorns, not longer than the largest pores. Irregularly scattered over the surface twenty to thirty strong, conical, radial spines, about half as long as the main axis, as broad at the base as a large pore. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal, their main axis identical with that of the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer shell 0.18, of the middle 0.09, of the inner 0.05; minor axis of the first 0.14, of the second 0.07, of the third 0.04; pores of the cortical shell 0.006 to 0.02, bars 0.004; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.01.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily; Caltanisetta, Haeckel.

Genus 135. Cromyodruppa,^[174] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with four or more concentric shells (two medullary and two or more cortical shells), without spines or polar tubes.

The genus Cromyodruppa is characterised by the multiplication of the concentric fenestrated shell, which is composed of two medullary shells (enclosed in the central capsule) and two or more cortical shells (outside it). The former may be either spherical or ellipsoidal. The latter are always ellipsoidal, and in this it differs from Cromyosphæra. Probably Cromyodruppa has arisen from Prunulum by secondary apposition of more cortical envelopes.

Subgenus 1. Cromyodruppium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell composed of four concentric shells, two medullary and two cortical.

Shell composed of two ellipsoidal, cortical, and two spherical medullary shells. Proportion of the main axes of the four shells = 1 : 2 : 4 : 5. Network of all four shells nearly of the same form, subregular, with circular pores of almost equal size in every shell. The absolute size of the pores increases from the innermost to the outermost shell, but the breadth of the bars does not increase in a similar degree. The bars of the outermost shell are only twice as broad as those of the innermost; but the pores are three to four times larger. Surface of all four shells smooth. (The shell greatly resembles that of Cromyatractus tetraphractus, Pl. 15, fig. 2, but is devoid of polar spines; it differs also in the spherical form of both medullary shells and their relative size.)

Dimensions.—Main axes of the four shells—(A) innermost 0.035, (B) second 0.08, (C) third 0.15, (D) outermost 0.2; their equatorial axes—(A) 0.03, (B) 0.08, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.16; pores 0.004 to 0.016, bars 0.002 to 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Caryodruppula, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell composed of five or more concentric shells (two medullary and three or more cortical).

Shell composed of six ellipsoidal, concentric shells, two medullary and four cortical. Proportion of their main axes = 2 : 3 : 8 : 11 : 14 : 18. Network of the two medullary shells and of the innermost cortical shell subregular, with subcircular pores, about the same breadth as the bars. Network of the three outer cortical shells more lax, with larger, irregular, roundish pores, twice to six times as broad as the bars. The size of the pores and bars increases gradually from the innermost to the outermost shell. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the six shells—(A) innermost 0.04, (B) 0.06, (C) 0.16, (D) 0.22, (E) 0.28, (F) 0.35; their equatorial axes—(A) innermost 0.03, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.16, (E) 0.2, (F) 0.25; pores 0.003 to 0.02, bars 0.003 to 0.005.

Genus 136. Cromyocarpus,^[175] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with four or more concentric shells (two medullary and two or more cortical shells), with numerous radial spines, but without polar tubes.

The genus Cromyocarpus differs from Cromyodruppa only in the development of numerous large radial spines which start from the outer surface of the shell. It exhibits therefore the same relation to the latter that Prunocarpus bears to Prunulum, or Druppocarpus to Druppula. It differs from both in the multiplication of the cortical shell.

Shell composed of four concentric shells, two ellipsoidal cortical shells, and two spherical medullary shells. Proportion of their main axes = 10 : 8 : 3 : 2. Pores of the two cortical shells irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Pores of the two medullary shells subregular, circular, about the same size as the bars. Outer surface covered with numerous conical radial spines, about half as long as the main axis, half as broad at the base as the innermost shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer cortical shell 0.2, of the inner 0.15; equatorial axis of the former 0.16, of the latter 0.12; diameter of the outer medullary shell 0.06, of the inner 0.04; pores of the cortical shells 0.01 to 0.02, of the medullary shells 0.004 to 0.008, bars 0.003 to 0.006; length of the radial spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 137. Lithatractus,^[176] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and simple medullary shell, with two large opposite polar spines in the main axis of equal size and similar form.

The genus Lithatractus, rich in common and widely distributed species, begins the series of those Druppulida which are characterised by peculiar polar spines at both poles of the main axis. It repeats the formation of Stylosphæra and Ellipsostylus, and differs from the former in the ellipsoidal form of the cortical shell, from the latter in the possession of a medullary shell. Formerly all these forms were united in the one genus Stylosphæra (see above, p. 121).

Subgenus 1. Lithatractara, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the outer shell regular or subregular, with meshes of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Outer shell thin walled, smooth, without thorns or papillæ, with regular delicate network; the meshes hexagonal, three to four times as broad as the thin bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 4 : 3. Minor axis three times as large as that of the inner spherical shell; pores of the latter, small, circular. Two spines three-sided pyramidal, as long as the radius of the outer shell, each as broad at its base as one mesh.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoidal cortical shell 0.16, shorter axis 0.12; pores 0.011, bars 0.003; diameter of the spherical medullary shell 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.07; basal breadth 0.01.

Stylosphæra fragilis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas, pl. xvi. fig. 3.

Outer shell thin walled, smooth, without thorns or papillæ, with regular network; the meshes circular, of equal size, eight to ten times as broad as the thin bars; six to eight on the half equator. {320}Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 5 : 4. Minor axis once and one-third as broad as that of the ellipsoidal inner shell, the pores of which are also circular, but of half the size. Two spines strong, three-sided pyramidal, acute, as broad as a large mesh, as long as the equatorial axis. The stout inner prolongations of these form the only connection between the two shells.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoidal cortical shell 0.12, shorter axis 0.1; pores 0.02, bars 0.002; longer axes of the ellipsoidal medullary shell 0.09, shorter axis 0.07; pores 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.002.

Outer shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores of equal size, three to four times as broad as the thin bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 7 : 6. Minor axis three times as large as that of the inner spherical shell; pores of the latter half as large. Polar spines cylindrical, blunt, longer than the major axis, scarcely half as broad as one larger pore.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the cortical shell 0.14, shorter axis 0.12; pores 0.015 to 0.02, bars 0.004; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.15 to 0.2, its thickness 0.01.

Habitat.—Central area of the Pacific, Stations 270 to 272, depth 2425 to 2925 fathoms.

Outer shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores of equal size; twelve to fifteen on the half equator. Each pore is deep, funnel-shaped, its outer aperture double the size of the inner, its breadth about three times that of the high bars. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 6 : 5. Major axis double as long as the diameter of the spherical medullary shell. Polar spines very thick and short, tetrahedral, one-fourth as long and broad as the major axis.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the cortical shell 0.17, shorter axis 0.14; pores 0.01, bars 0.003; diameter of the medullary shell 0.08; length and thickness of the polar spines 0.04.

Outer shell thick walled, smooth, with elegant regular network; the meshes circular, six-lobed, rosette-like (of the same form as Stauroxiphos gladius, Pl. 15, fig. 7), twice to three times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 4 : 3. Minor axis twice as long as the diameter of the inner spherical shell, which has regular, simple, circular pores of half the size. Polar spines short and thick, conical, only one-fourth to one-sixth as long as the minor axis, and quite as thick.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the cortical shell 0.16, shorter axis 0.12; pores 0.016, bars 0.006; diameter of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the polar spines 0.02 to 0.03, basal thickness the same.

Subgenus 2. Lithatractylis, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the outer shell regular, with meshes of equal size and similar form; surface thorny or papillose, covered with small conical spines or tubercles.

Outer shell thorny, thin walled, with regular network; meshes circular, with hexagonal frame, four to five times as broad as the thin bars; eighteen to twenty on the half equator. From every corner between the three meshes, where three hexagons unite, starts one short, straight, triangular thorn (as in Ellipsoxiphus elegans, Pl. 14, fig. 7). Proportion of the major axis of the ellipsoid to the minor = 4 : 3. Minor axis twice the diameter of the inner spherical shell, the pores of which are half as broad, circular. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the minor axis, as broad at the base as one hexagonal frame.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the cortical shell 0.08, shorter axis = 0.06; pores 0.004, bars 0.001; length of the polar spines 0.05, basal thickness 0.005; diameter of the inner shell 0.03.

Outer shell thin walled, thorny, with regular network; meshes circular, simple, four to six times as broad as the thin bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Between every three meshes is one short conical spine. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 6 : 5. Minor axis equals three times the diameter of the inner spherical shell. Polar spines conical, thick, half as long as the major axis, thicker at the base than one pore. (This species differs from Stylatractus carduus only by the simple medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.12 to 0.16, shorter axis 0.1 to 0.14; pores 0.02 to 0.03, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.05 to 0.10, basal breadth 0.04; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Central area of the Pacific, Stations 268 to 274, depth 2350 to 2900 fathoms; also fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Outer shell thin walled, thorny, with regular network; pores circular, simple, small, two to three times as broad as the thin bars; eighteen to twenty-four on the half equator. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3. Inner shell ellipsoidal, half as large as the outer. Polar spines cylindrical, blunt, thin, very variable in length (one-fourth to three-fourths of the major axis, not thicker than a mesh).

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the ellipsoid 0.07 to 0.09, shorter axis 0.05 to 0.07; pores 0.005 to 0.006, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.02 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.004; length of the inner shell 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Outer shell thick walled, thorny, with regular network; meshes circular, funnel-shaped, its outer aperture elegant, rosette-like, with eight to ten incisions (like Stylosphæra calliope, Pl. 16, fig. 6); eight to ten meshes on the half equator, three to four times as broad as the bars. Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 5 : 4. Shorter axis equals three times the diameter of the inner spherical shell. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about half as long as the shorter axis, as broad at the base as a mesh.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the cortical shell 0.15, shorter 0.12; pores 0.02, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.02; diameter of the inner shell 0.04.

Habitat.—South-eastern part of the Pacific, Station 302, depth 1450 fathoms.

Subgenus 3. Lithatractona, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the outer shell irregular, with meshes of unequal size or dissimilar form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Outer shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, two to four times as broad as the thin bars; fifteen to twenty on the half equator. Margin of the pores simple. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 3 : 2. Minor axis twice as large as the diameter of the inner spherical shell, the pores of which are also irregular, roundish, but of half the size. Polar spines conical, somewhat shorter than the main axis, on the base two to three times as thick as a large pore.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the outer shell 0.15, shorter axis 0.1; pores 0.002 to 0.004, bars 0.001; diameter of the inner shell 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.012.

Outer shell thick walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, four to eight times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. Margin of the pores lobed, very irregular, bluntly dentate, by five to twenty slight incisions. Proportion of the major axis to the minor very variable, between 3 : 2 and 9 : 8. Diameter of the inner shell also variable, between one-third and one-half of the outer; pores of the former scarcely half the size of the latter, simple, roundish, or circular. The inner shell is at some parts quite spherical, at other parts more or less ellipsoidal. Polar spines conical, very variable in size and form, sometimes in the basal half triangular; they are sometimes somewhat longer than the main axis, at other times considerably shorter; their basal breadth is occasionally the same as that of the largest pores, sometimes, however, scarcely half as large. This deep-sea species is very common in the central area of the Tropical Pacific (Stations 266 to 272), and occurs also fossil in the Barbados deposits. It is interesting from its great variability, and sometimes constitutes a transitional form to Stylosphæra.

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the outer shell 0.1 to 0.15, shorter axis 0.05 to 0.12; pores 0.018 to 0.024, bars 0.002 to 0.004; diameter of the inner shell 0.04 to 0.08; length of the polar spines 0.08 to 0.2, basal thickness 0.01 to 0.02.

Habitat.—Central area of the Pacific, common; Stations 266 to 272, depth 2425 to 2900 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Stylosphæra jugata, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xvi. fig. 2).

Outer shell thick walled, smooth, or somewhat reticulated, with a peculiar, irregular, double network. The pores are roundish, of very different sizes, with double margin of the outer aperture, and so irregularly distributed in polygonal groups that every group contains two to six pores immediately touching each other; the groups are separated by broader bars. On the half equator of the shell are about six to eight groups and twelve to eighteen pores. Proportion of the longer axis of the ellipsoidal shell to the shorter = 6 : 5 or 5 : 4. Inner ellipsoidal shell about half the size; its pores are not easy to make out. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, with prominent edges, about half as long as the major axis, as broad at the base as a group of pores. (Nearly allied to Stylosphæra jugata, p. 137.)

Dimensions.—Longer axis of the cortical shell 0.12 to 0.16, shorter axis 0.1 to 0.13; pores 0.01 to 0.02; length of the polar spines 0.06 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.03 to 0.4.

Habitat.—Central area of the Pacific, Stations 266 to 272, depth 2425 to 2900 fathoms.

Subgenus 4. Lithatractium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the outer shell irregular, with meshes of unequal size or dissimilar form; surface thorny or papillose, covered with small conical spines or tubercles.

Outer shell thorny, thin walled, with irregular network; pores roundish, of unequal size, twice to four times as broad as the thin bars; sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 5 : 4. Shorter axis twice the diameter of the inner spherical shell. Polar spines conical, very stout, longer than the main axis, its base equals one-third of the minor axis.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.1, shorter axis 0.08; pores 0.004 to 0.002, bars 0.001; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04; polar spines—length 0.12, thickness 0.03.

Outer shell thorny, thick walled, with irregular network; pores roundish, of unequal size, so irregularly distributed in polygonal groups that in every group two to six pores (commonly three to four) are near together; the groups are separated by broader bars. On the half equator {324}six to eight groups and eighteen to twenty-four pores. Proportion of the longer axis to the shorter = 6 : 5. Shorter axis equals twice the diameter of the inner ellipsoidal shell. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the equatorial axis, as broad at the base as a group of pores.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.12, minor axis 0.1; pores 0.004 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.03.

Habitat.—Central area of the Pacific, Stations 271 to 274, depth 2350 to 2750 fathoms.

Genus 138. Druppatractus,^[177] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and simple medullary shell, with two large opposite polar spines in the main axis of different size or dissimilar form.

The genus Druppatractus differs from its near relation Lithatractus in the differentiation of the two polar spines, which are different in size or form, often to a very considerable degree. It has therefore the same relation to the latter that Ellipsoxiphus bears to Ellipsostylus.

Subgenus 1. Druppatractara, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular or subregular, with meshes of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface and regular network. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 3 : 2. Pores circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half equator (as in Xiphostylus alcedo, Pl. 13, fig. 4). Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical shell. Polar spines straight, three-sided pyramidal, as broad at the base as one mesh; the longer equals the main axis of the cortical shell, the shorter only its half.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the ellipsoidal cortical shell 0.18, minor axis 0.12; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the major polar spine 0.16 to 0.2, of the minor 0.01 to 0.12, basal breadth 0.01.

Stylosphæra hippocampus, Haeckel, 1881, Atlas, pl. xvi. figs. 10, 11.

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface and regular network. Proportion of both axes = 7 : 6. Pores circular, hexagonally lobed, three times as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the half {325}equator. Medullary shell ellipsoidal, nearly half as large as the cortical. Larger polar spine horn-like curved, as long as the main axis, smaller scarcely half as long, pommel-shaped.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.09, minor 0.075; pores 0.01, bars 0.003; axes of the medullary shell 0.04 and 0.03; length of the larger polar spine 0.06 to 0.09, of the smaller 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface and regular network. Proportion of both axes = 4 : 3. Pores circular, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical shell. Polar spines strong, straight, cylindrical, with conical apex, as broad at the base as two pores; the larger once and a half to twice as long as the main axis, the smaller only one-third to one-fourth as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.1 to 0.12, minor 0.08 to 0.09; pores 0.008, bars 0.004; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the larger polar spine 0.15 to 0.2, of the minor 0.04 to 0.05, basal thickness of them 0.02.

Stylosphæra testudo, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 299, Taf. viii. fig. 16.

Cortical shell thick walled, spindle-shaped, with smooth surface and regular network. Proportion of the two axes = 3 : 2. Pores circular, five times as broad as the bars; only six to seven on the half equator. Medullary shell ellipsoidal, about one-third as large as the cortical shell. Polar spines strong, short, three-sided pyramidal; the larger as long as half the transverse axis, the smaller only one-fourth as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.8; pores 0.015, bars 0.003; axes of the medullary shell 0.04 and 0.03; length of the larger polar spine 0.04, of the smaller 0.02, basal thickness 0.01.

Habitat.—Pacific, Philippine and Californian Sea (Ehrenberg), Stations 244, 266, 289, &c., depth 2550 to 2900 fathoms.

Subgenus 2. Druppatractylis, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular or subregular, with meshes of nearly equal size and similar form; surface thorny or papillose, covered with small conical spines or tubercles.

Cortical shell thick walled, thorny, with regular network. Proportion of the two axes = 6 : 5. Pores circular, each with a six-lobed outer opening, funnel-shaped, twice as broad as the bars; nine {326}to ten on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical shell. Polar spines very strong, three-sided pyramidal, as broad at the base as three pores; the larger about as long as the main axis, the smaller only one-third as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.1; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; medullary shell 0.035; length of the larger polar spine 0.11, of the smaller 0.04, basal breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell thick walled, thorny, with regular network. Proportion of the two axes = 4 : 3. Pores circular, hexagonally framed, three to four times as broad as the crested bars; from every corner of the hexagon (between three meshes) arises a short papilla; the bottom of every funnel-like mesh is closed by a very thin plate with three regular, circular pores (occasionally four), sometimes confluent, at other times separate. Medullary shell (fig. 9) half as large as the cortical, ellipsoidal and papillate, with regular, circular pores. Polar spines very strong, three-sided prismatic, often somewhat irregular, with short apex; the larger once to twice as long as the main axis, the smaller scarcely half as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.16, minor 0.12; pores 0.02 (porules at their base 0.01), bars 0.006; axes of the medullary shell 0.07 and 0.06, its pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the larger polar spine 0.15 to 0.3, of the smaller 0.07 to 0.09, basal thickness 0.03.

Stylosphæra coronata, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxv. fig. 4.

Cortical shell thick walled, thorny, with regular network. Proportion of the two axes = 5 : 4. Pores circular, simple, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Medullary shell circular, one-third as broad as the cortical shell. Polar spines furrowed and angular; the longer and thinner pyramidal about as long as the main axis, the shorter and thicker scarcely half as long, thickened towards the short conical apex.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.08 to 0.1, minor 0.06 to 0.08; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the large polar spine 0.08 to 0.12, of the shorter 0.04 to 0.05.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados; also living in the depths of the Pacific, central area, Stations 265 to 268, depth 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Subgenus 3. Druppatractona, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell irregular, with meshes of unequal size or dissimilar form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Stylosphæra lævis, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxv. fig. 6.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular network. Proportion of the two axes = 3 : 2. Pores roundish or subcircular, of different size, one-half to twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Medullary shell ellipsoidal, one-third as large as the cortical shell. Polar spines conical, the larger and thinner nearly as long as the main axis, the shorter and thicker scarcely one-third as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.07 to 0.1, minor 0.05 to 0.07; pores and bars 0.005 to 0.01; axes of the medullary shell 0.03 and 0.02; length of the major polar spine 0.06 to 0.09, of the shorter 0.03 to 0.04.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with irregular network. Proportion of the two axes = 6 : 5. Pores funnel-shaped, composed of two to four confluent smaller porules, twice to four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, half as broad. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, the larger about as long as the main axis, the shorter one-third to one-half as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.1; pores 0.012 to 0.018, bars 0.004; diameter of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the major polar spine 0.1, of the minor 0.03 to 0.05.

Subgenus 4. Druppatractium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell irregular, with meshes of unequal size or dissimilar form; surface thorny or papillose, covered with small spines or tubercles.

Cortical shell thin walled, thorny, with irregular network. Proportion of the two axes = 5 : 4. Pores simple, irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, half as broad. Polar spines conical, more or less curved; the major longer than the main axis, the minor scarcely half as long. (Resembles Sphærostylus ophidium, Pl. 16, figs. 14, 15, but differs from it in the prolongation of the main axis.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor 0.12; pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.005; diameter of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the larger polar spine 0.12 to 0.18, of the shorter 0.06 to 0.08, basal thickness 0.003.

Cortical shell thick walled, spiny, with irregular network. Proportion of the two axes = 3 : 2. Pores irregular, roundish, lobed, or composed of three to five confluent porules, twice to six times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half equator. (Similar to Ellipsoxiphus atractus, Pl. 14, fig. 1.) Medullary shell ellipsoidal, nearly half as large as the cortical shell. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, the major longer than the main axis, the minor scarcely one-third to one-fourth as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.18, minor 0.12; pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.004; axes of the medullary shell 0.08 and 0.05; length of the major polar spine 0.2, of the minor 0.05, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 139. Stylatractus,^[178] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and double medullary shell, in the main axis with two large opposite polar spines of equal size and similar form.

The genus Stylatractus differs from Lithatractus in the double medullary shell, from Amphisphæra in the ellipsoidal form of the cortical shell. As in these two genera, both opposite polar spines have the same shape and size.

Subgenus 1. Stylatractara, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular or subregular, with meshes of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Amphistylus neptunus, Haeckel, 1878, Atlas, pl. xvii. fig. 6.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with subregular, circular, polygonally framed pores, quite as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the half main axis, three times as broad at the base as the pores. (Much resembles Amphisphæra neptunus, p. 142, but differs from it by the prolongation of the main axis, which equals one and a half or one and a fourth the equatorial axis, and by the somewhat irregular formation of the cortical hexagonal network. Sometimes also, as in the figured specimen, the length of both polar spines is somewhat different.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.15, minor axis 0.12; pores and bars 0.007; main axes of both ellipsoidal medullary shells 0.08 and 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.08 to 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 266 to 268, depth 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, simple, circular pores, quite as broad as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, half as long as the main axis, as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell. (Resembles very nearly Xiphatractus armadillo, Pl. 17, fig. 11, but differs in the regular form and equal length of the polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.17, minor axis 0.13; pores and bars 0.007; main axes of both ellipsoidal medullary shells 0.09 and 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with subregular, circular, double-contoured pores, smaller than the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. The thickness of the shell-wall equals the radius of the inner medullary shell. Polar spines short, three-sided pyramidal; their length and basal thickness variable, but commonly equal to the diameter of the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.16, minor axis 0.13; pores 0.007, bars 0.01; main axes of both ellipsoidal medullary shells 0.09 and 0.04; length and basal breadth of the polar spines 0.04 to 0.05.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 272, depth 2425 to 2925 fathoms.

Subgenus 2. Stylatractylis, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the outer shell regular, with meshes of equal size and similar form; surface thorny or papillose, covered with small spinules or tubercles.

Amphistylus giganteus, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xvii. fig. 1).

Cortical shell papillose, very thick walled, with regular network; pores circular, with double margin, about twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. The cortical shell is connected with the outer medullary shell by numerous strong beams, and the inner prolongations of both polar spines are much stronger. The circular pores of the outer medullary shell are three times as large as those of the inner, and equal to those of the cortical shell, but the bars are much thinner. Polar spines very strong, three-sided pyramidal, with spirally contorted edges, as long as the main axis, as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.3, minor axis 0.22; pores 0.02, bars 0.01; main axes of the ellipsoidal medullary shells 0.14 and 0.07; length of the polar spines 0.3, basal thickness 0.06.

Stylosphæra carduus, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxv. fig. 7.

Cortical shell thin walled, spiny, with regular, circular pores, five times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines conical, half as long as the main axis, at the base broader than the pores. (The cortical shell is ellipsoidal as well as both medullary shells; the figure of Ehrenberg, as is generally the case, is more correct than his description. This interesting species occurs in the Barbados rocks, with double as well as with simple medullary shell, and may in the latter case be distinguished as Lithatractus carduelis.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.12 to 0.16, minor 0.1 to 0.14; pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.002 to 0.005; main axes of the ellipsoidal medullary shells 0.05 and 0.03; length of the polar spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 3. Stylatractona, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the outer shell irregular, with meshes of different size or form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to six times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the half equator. Polar spines conical, about half as long as the main axis, and as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell. (The size and form of the pores and of the polar spines in this species are very variable, so that the proportions given are to be understood as averages.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.13, minor axis 0.11; pores 0.004 to 0.012, bars 0.002; main axes of the ellipsoidal medullary shells 0.07 and 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.03.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area. Stations 272 to 274, depth 2350 to 2750 fathoms.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with large irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half equator. At the bottom of each pore a thin lamella of silex, perforated by four to six irregular, roundish, double-contoured porules. Medullary shells resemble those of Stylatractus giganteus. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal; their length and basal thickness scarcely equal the diameter of the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor axis 0.13; pores 0.02, bars 0.005, porules 0.01; length of the polar spines 0.04.

Subgenus 4. Stylatractium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the outer shell irregular, with meshes of different size and form; surface thorny or papillose, covered with small spinules or tubercles.

Cortical shell thin walled, with papillose surface, and irregular, simple, roundish pores, ten to sixteen on the half equator, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Conical papillæ of the surface irregularly scattered. Polar spines conical, about as long as the main axis, at the base half as broad as the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor 0.1; pores 0.006 to 0.01, bars 0.003; main axes of the medullary shells 0.09 and 0.06; length of the polar spines 0.13, basal breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell thin walled, with spiny surface, and irregular, roundish pores, eight to ten on the half equator, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Every pore is divided by thinner bars into four to six small roundish porules. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, nearly as long as the main axis, as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell. (Resembles Xiphatractus glyptodon, Pl. 17, figs. 9, 10, but differs from it by the irregular network and the equal size of both polar spines.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.14, minor 0.1; pores 0.02, bars 0.008, porules 0.007; main axes of the two medullary shells 0.08 and 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.13, basal breadth 0.04.

Genus 140. Xiphatractus,^[179] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with a simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and double medullary shell, in the main axis with two large opposite polar spines of different size or form.

The genus Xiphatractus differs from the nearly related Stylatractus in the differentiation of two polar spines (in the same manner as Druppatractus differs from Lithatractus). From the spherical Amphistylus it differs in the ellipsoidal form of the cortical shell.

Subgenus 1. Xiphatractara, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular or subregular, with meshes of nearly equal size and similar form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, about as broad as the bars; fifteen to sixteen on the half equator. Polar spines three-sided pyramidal, with thick, prominent edges, of irregular form; the longer about as long as the main axis, the shorter scarcely one-third as long; their basal breadth equals the diameter of the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.13, minor axis 0.1, thickness of its wall 0.01; pores and bars 0.005; main axes of the two medullary shells 0.07 and 0.03; length of the major polar spine 0.12, of the minor 0.04, basal thickness 0.04.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the half equator. Each pore has six to nine excisions (commonly eight), elegantly lobed, flower-like (as in Xiphostylus phasianus, Pl. 13, fig. 9). Polar spines strong, angulate; the major pyramidal, longer than the main axis, the shorter elegantly pommel-like, scarcely one-third as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor 0.12; pores 0.014, bars 0.007; main axes of the two medullary shells 0.09 and 0.05; length of the larger polar spine 0.16, of the shorter 0.05, greatest thickness 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Xiphatractylis, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell regular or subregular, with meshes of nearly equal size and similar form; surface thorny or papillose.

Stylosphæra spinulosa, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxv. fig. 8.

Cortical shell thin walled, with spiny surface, and large, regular, circular pores, four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half equator. Spines between the pores of the same size, conical. Polar spines also conical, but much larger; the major about as long as the main axis, the minor scarcely half as long; their basal thickness equals the largest pores.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.1, minor 0.08; pores 0.012, bars 0.003; diameter of the spherical medullary shells 0.06 and 0.03; length of the major polar spine 0.09, of the minor 0.04, basal thickness 0.02.

Stylosphæra sulcata, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxiv, fig. 6.

Cortical shell thick walled, with thorny surface, and regular, circular pores, quite as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the half equator. Polar spines cylindrical, with longitudinal basal furrows and conical apex, three times as broad as the pores; the larger about as long as the main axis, the shorter only one-half or two-thirds as long.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.01, minor 0.08; pores and bars 0.007; main axes of the two medullary shells 0.08 and 0.04; length of the major polar spine 0.1, of the minor 0.06, breadth of them 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, with spiny surface, and regular, elegant network; pores circular, hexagonally framed, about as broad as the bars; from every corner of the network (between three pores) arises a short bristle-like spine. Polar spines three-sided prismatic, as broad as one hexagon; the major once to twice as long as the main axis, the minor only one-half to one-fourth as long. (The cortical shell much resembles Ellipsoxiphus elegans, Pl. 14, fig. 7.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.15, minor 0.13; pores and bars 0.01; main axes of the two medullary shells 0.1 and 0.06; length of the major polar spine 0.1 to 0.3, of the minor 0.05 to 0.1, thickness 0.01.

Subgenus 3. Xiphatractona, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell irregular, with meshes of different size or form; surface smooth, without thorns or papillæ.

Cortical shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to twelve on the half equator. Polar spines angular, irregularly curved or contorted; the larger once to twice as long as the main axis, the shorter and thicker pommel-shaped, only one-third to one-half as long; their basal breadth equals two pores.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.14, minor 0.1; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; main axis of the two ellipsoidal medullary shells 0.09 and 0.04; length of the major polar spine 0.1 to 0.2, of the minor 0.05 to 0.08, breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 4. Xiphatractium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Network of the cortical shell irregular, with meshes of unequal size or dissimilar form; surface thorny or papillose.

Stylosphæra radiosa, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxiv. fig. 5.

Cortical shell very thick walled, with thorny surface, and irregular, roundish pores, once to three times as broad as the bars; nine and ten on the half equator. Polar spines conical, on the base about as broad as the largest pores; the larger as long as the main axis, the smaller scarcely one-fourth as long. (The radial striation, figured by Ehrenberg and applied to the name of this species, is produced by the contours of the funnel-shaped pores in the thick walls seen in optical section; the ellipsoidal cortical shell is double.)

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.13, minor 0.09; pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.003; main axes of the two medullary shells 0.05 and 0.03; length of the major polar spine 0.12, of the minor 0.03, basal breadth 0.01.

Cortical shell thick walled, covered with radial spines of the size of the pores; on the half equator eight to ten irregular or subregular roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars. In the bottom of each pore a thin lamella of silex, perforated by four to six smaller roundish pores. Both medullary shells (fig. 10) spherical, with smaller, regular, circular pores. Larger polar spine three-sided pyramidal, in length equals the main axis; shorter spine only half as long, but twice as thick, of elegant pommel-form (fig. 9), with nine prominent edges.

Dimensions.—Major axis 0.12, minor, 0.1; pores and spines 0.01 to 0.02, bars and porules 0.005; diameter of the two medullary shells 0.05 and 0.02; length of the major polar spine 0.1, of the minor 0.06, greatest thickness 0.04.

Genus 141. Cromyatractus,^[180] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with four or more concentric shells (two medullary shells and two or more cortical shells), in the main axis with two large opposite polar spines of equal size and similar form.

The genus Cromyatractus is very nearly allied to all the foregoing genera, which bear two equal spines opposite to one another on the poles of the main axis; it differs {335}from them in the multiplication of the cortical shell, and may be considered as the most highly developed form of this amphistylous series, which proceeds from Ellipsoxiphus to Lithatractus and Stylatractus.

Subgenus 1. Cromyatractium, Haeckel.

Stylocromium tetraphractum, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xv. fig. 2).

Proportion of the main axes of the four concentric shells about = 1 : 3 : 5 : 7. Network of all four shells nearly of the same structure, subregular, with circular pores of equal size (in one and the same shell). The absolute size of the pores increases gradually from the innermost to the outermost shell. The bars between the pores are smaller and quite smooth. Surface of the outermost shell smooth. Polar spines cylindrical, with conical apex, of variable length, nearly as broad as the innermost shell.

Dimensions.—Main axes of the four shells—(A) inner medullary shell 0.03, (B) outer medullary shell 0.08, (C) inner cortical shell 0.15, (D) outer cortical shell 0.2; equatorial axes of them—(A) 0.025, (B) 0.06, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.15; pores of (A) 0.004, (B) 0.007, (C) 0.01, (D) 0.013, bars 0.002 to 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.1 to 0.3 (and more), breadth 0.015.

Proportion of the main axes of the four concentric shells about = 1 : 2 : 4 : 6. Network of the two medullary shells regular, with small circular pores, little larger than the bars. Network of the two cortical shells irregular, with much larger polygonal pores, three to nine times as broad as the thin bars. (Somewhat similar to Cromyatractus ceparius, Pl. 15, fig. 4.) Surface of the outermost shell smooth or a little thorny. Polar spines cylindrical, very large, twice to three times as long as the main axis of the outermost shell, about as broad as the innermost shell, with conical apex; smooth or a little thorny.

Dimensions.—Main axes of the four shells—(A) 0.03, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.13, (D) 0.18; equatorial axes of them—(A) 0.2, (B) 0.45, (C) 0.11, (D) 0.14; pores of the two medullary shells 0.004 and 0.006, of both cortical shells 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.003.

Proportion of the main axes of the four concentric shells about = 1 : 3 : 10 : 11. Network of the two spherical medullary shells (fig. 1a) regular, with small circular pores, twice as broad as {336}the bars. Network of the inner cortical shell regular with circular, hexagonally-framed pores, twice as broad as the bars. From every corner of the hexagons (between three pores) arises a very thin, hair-like, short radial spinule. These spinules communicate with one another by tangential branches (at equal distances from the inner cortical shell), and form thereby an outer, delicate cortical network, with large polygonal meshes and very thin bars. Polar spines very strong, pyramidal, with prominent edges, as long as the main radius of the cortical shell, and half as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Main axes of the four shells—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.06, (C) 0.2, (D) 0.22; equatorial axes of them—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.06, (C) 0.13, (D) 0.15; pores of the four shells—(A) 0.002, (B) 0.004, (C) 0.008, (D) 0.02; bars 0.001 to 0.003; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.05.

Subgenus 2. Caryatractus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell composed of two medullary shells and three or more cortical shells.

Caryostylus cepicius, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xv. fig. 3).

Caryodoras cepicius, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Proportion of the main axes of the five concentric shells about = 1 : 2 : 5 : 7 : 8. Network of both spherical medullary shells regular, with small circular pores, about as broad as the bars. Network of the three ellipsoidal cortical shells irregular, with large polygonal meshes, five to ten times as broad as the thin bars. Surface of the outermost shell smooth. Polar spines cylindrical, thorny, about as thick as the innermost shell and as long as the outermost shell, against the apex with a spindle-like intumescence, formed by delicate spongy framework (fig. 3).

Dimensions.—Main axes of the five concentric shells—(A) 0.03, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.16, (D) 0.2, (E) 0.25; equatorial axes of them—(A) 0.03, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.12, (D) 0.16, (E) 0.2; pores of the two medullary shells 0.002 to 0.004, of the three cortical shells 0.02 to 0.04, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.3, breadth 0.03.

Caryostylus ceparius, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xv. fig. 4).

Proportion of the main axes of the six concentric shells about = 1 : 2 : 7 : 10 : 13 : 18. Network of the three inner shells regular, with small, circular pores, which are about as broad as the bars and in the third shell hexagonally framed. Network of the three outer shells irregular, with large polygonal meshes, six to twelve times as broad as the bars. Surface smooth. Polar spines strong, spindle-shaped, thorny, outside of the sixth shell about as long as inside of it; broader than {337}the innermost shell; the thorns of their outer free part (arising at equal distances) represent perhaps the beginnings of three to four further shells.

Dimensions.—Main axes of the six concentric shells—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.14, (D) 0.2, (E) 0.26, (F) 0.37; equatorial axes—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.09, (D) 0.15, (E) 0.21, (F) 0.3; pores of the three inner shells 0.003 to 0.006, of the three outer shells 0.02 to 0.04, bars 0.003 to 0.005; length of the polar spines, from the base of the innermost shell to the apex, 0.35, greatest breadth 0.03.

Genus 142. Pipetta,^[181] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and simple medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated tubes opposite on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Pipetta differs from Pipettella (p. 304) in the possession of an inner (medullary) shell; it exhibits the same tubular prolongations of the cortical shell at both poles of the main axis.

Cortical shell spindle-shaped, the middle ellipsoidal part gently passing over on both poles into the conical tubes, which attain about the same length. Network regular, with circular, hexagonally-framed pores, twice as broad as the bars, sixteen to eighteen on the half equator. In the middle part of the shell the pores arise from their hexagonal bases in the form of short conical funnels; on both tubes they are much smaller and simple, without frame. Medullary shell (fig. 8a) spherical, scarcely one-third as broad as the cortical, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars, eight to nine on the half equator. The two shells are connected only by two opposite beams, lying in the equatorial axis and ramified at the distal insertion (fig. 8a).

Dimensions.—Middle ellipsoidal part of the cortical shell 0.13 to 0.15; polar tubes 0.15 long, 0.06 broad at the base; pores of the former 0.01, bars 0.005; pores of the tubes 0.06, bars 0.003. Medullary shell 0.04, pores 0.004, bars 0.002.

Cortical shell nearly spherical in the middle part, which is sharply separated at both poles from the long, nearly cylindrical tubes; these are longer than the main axis, at the distal end open (always broken off). Network regular, with circular, hexagonally-framed pores, of the same breadth as the bars, eighteen to twenty on the half equator. The pores of the polar tubes are of the same shape, only much smaller, and arranged in sixteen to eighteen longitudinal rows. Medullary shell {338}spherical, about one-third as broad as the cortical, with simple circular pores. The connection between the two shells is only made by two simple opposite beams, lying in the equatorial axis.

Dimensions.—Middle spheroidal part of the cortical shell 0.14 to 0.16; polar tubes 0.15 to 0.2 or longer, 0.03 broad; pores and bars of the former 0.007, of the latter 0.003. Medullary shell 0.04, pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Cortical shell ellipsoidal, sharply separated from the cylindrical polar tubes, which reach about the same length (or more). Network regular, with circular pores, three times as broad as the bars, without hexagonal frames, fourteen to fifteen on the half equator. Pores of the polar tubes smaller, arranged in eight to ten longitudinal rows. Medullary shell spherical, one-fourth as broad as the cortical, connected with it by a circle of four to six radial beams, lying in the equatorial plane. Differs from Pipettella prismatica (Pl. 39, fig. 6) in the possession of a medullary shell and the absence of the tube edges.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the ellipsoid 0.14, equatorial axis 0.12, pores 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the tubes 0.15 or more, breadth 0.03. Medullary shell 0.03, pores 0.002, bars 0.001.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 265 to 268, depth 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Cortical shell spindle-shaped, the middle ellipsoidal part gently passing over at both poles into the conical tubes, which attain only half its length. Network irregular, with roundish or subcircular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars, twelve to sixteen on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, one-fourth as broad as the cortical. (Differs from the foregoing species in the short conical tubes and the irregular reticulation.)

Dimensions.—Middle part of the cortical shell 0.16 long, 0.13 broad; tubes 0.09 long, 0.05 on the base broad; pores 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.003. Medullary shell 0.04.

Genus 143. Pipettaria,^[182] n. gen.

Definition.—Druppulida with simple ellipsoidal cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated tubes opposite on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Pipettaria differs from the foregoing Pipetta only in the duplication of the medullary shell; as in this, the tubular prolongations of the main axis of the cortical shell may be either conical (with closed apex) or cylindrical (with apical opening?).

Cortical shell spindle-shaped, the middle ellipsoidal part gently passing over on both poles into the conical tubes, which attain about half its length. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars, sixteen to eighteen on the half equator; pores of the tubes smaller. Both medullary shells spheroidal, compressed. (The appearance of the cortical shell resembles that of Cannartiscus amphiconus, Pl. 39, fig. 19, but without the equatorial constriction.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the ellipsoid 0.15, equatorial axis 0.13; length of the polar tubes 0.08, basal breadth 0.05; pores of the former 0.008, bars 0.004; diameter of the medullary shells 0.04 and 0.02.

Cannartidium tubarium, Haeckel, 1882, Atlas (pl. xxxix. fig. 15).

Cortical shell ellipsoidal, on both poles distinctly separated from the short conical tubes, the length and breadth of which equal the outer medullary shell. In the equatorial plane arises a circle of four to six short conical protuberances, similar to the polar tubes. Pores subregular, circular, or roundish, scarcely broader than the bars, sixteen to twenty on the half equator. Both medullary shells spheroidal, somewhat compressed in the direction of the two poles (as in fig. 18a).

Dimensions.—Main axis of the ellipsoid 0.12, equatorial axis 0.09; pores 0.005, bars 0.004; size of the equatorial protuberances and of the polar tubes 0.02.

Family XIII. Spongurida, Haeckel (Pl. 48, figs. 6, 7).

Definition.—Prunoidea with spongy ellipsoidal or cylindrical shell, composed wholly or partially of a spongy framework, without equatorial stricture, with or without an enclosed medullary shell.

The family Spongurida comprises, in the sense here restricted, all those Prunoidea in which the ellipsoidal or cylindrical shell is composed wholly or partially of an irregular siliceous framework, not of simple lattice-work. It contains two subfamilies, differing in the absence or presence of a latticed medullary shell in the middle of the central capsule; in the Spongellipsida it is absent, in the Spongodruppida present; the former are most nearly related to the Ellipsida, the latter to the Druppulida, the difference consisting only in the spongy structure of the cortical shell.

In my Monograph (1862, p. 447) the family Spongurida had a much wider extent, comprising also a number of Sphæroidea and Discoidea, agreeing in the spongy {340}structure of the shell. Here we restrict the definition to those spongy Sphærellaria in which the central capsule and the enclosing spongy cortical shell are ellipsoidal or cylindrical, therefore each transverse section is a circle, and each meridional section an ellipse, as in all Prunoidea.

The Cortical Shell in all Spongurida is composed of a delicate framework of irregularly branched and interwoven siliceous threads; commonly this spongy structure is rather dense or compact, but sometimes also very loose. In the simplest form, Spongellipsis, the spongy cortical shell contains a large cavity, in which lies freely the central capsule. In Spongurus this cavity is completely distended by a spongy framework. In this case the solid spongy shell becomes often prolonged, and its original ellipsoidal form passes over into a cylindrical one (as in many Zygartida). Sometimes (particularly in Spongocore, Pl. 48, fig. 6) the cylinder becomes three-jointed by two more or less distinct annular constrictions. Spongocore is distinguished by an outer veil, a thin lattice-lamella, which envelops the spongy shell and is connected with it by radial beams.

The Medullary Shell, absent in the Spongellipsida, is constant in the second subfamily Spongodruppida. It is either a simple latticed shell (Spongodruppa) or double, composed of two concentric latticed shells (Spongoliva); its form is either spherical or ellipsoidal. It lies in the middle of the central capsule, and is connected by radial beams (perforating the membrane of the latter) with the enveloping spongy cortical shell.

In many Spongurida the surface of the shell is armed with radial spines, and in some genera (Spongoprunum, Spongatractus, &c., Pl. 17, fig. 12), on both poles of the main axis, are developed two strong opposite polar spines, as in many other Prunoidea.

The Central Capsule of the Spongurida is either ellipsoidal or cylindrical. Only in Spongellipsis it lies freely in the internal cavity of the spongy shell. In all other genera it is perforated by a part of the skeleton; in the Spongodruppida it contains the simple or double medullary shell, and the radial beams which perforate its membrane and connect the latter with the external spongy cortical shell. In Spongurus and the allied genera (Spongocore, Spongoprunum) the whole central capsule is filled with a spongy framework which also envelops its surface.

Synopsis of the Genera of Spongurida.

Subfamily 1. Spongellipsida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongurida with a spongy ellipsoidal or cylindrical shell, without an internal latticed medullary shell.

Genus 144. Spongellipsis,^[183] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongurida with an ellipsoidal or cylindrical spongy shell, containing an internal cavity, without a latticed medullary shell. Polar spines absent.

The genus Spongellipsis embraces those very simple Spongurida in which the ellipsoidal central capsule is enclosed in a spongy cortical shell of the same form. It corresponds, therefore, to Plegmosphæra among the Sphæroidea, to Plegmodiscus among the Discoidea, and to Spongolarcus among the Larcoidea. In some species the ellipsoidal form is prolonged and passes into a cylindrical one.

Subgenus 1. Spongellipsarium, Haeckel.

Shell ellipsoidal, with smooth surface, its spongy wall scarcely one-tenth as thick as the minor axis of the inner cavity. Spongy framework very compact, with small meshes, three to six times as broad as the bars. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 3 : 2.

Dimensions.—Major axis (or length) of the shell 0.36, minor axis (or breadth) 0.24.

Shell ellipsoidal, with rough surface, its spongy wall nearly half as thick as the minor axis of the inner cavity. Spongy framework very loose, with large meshes, ten to twenty times as broad as the bars. Proportion of the major axis to the minor = 4 : 3.

Shell nearly cylindrical, with rough surface, its spongy wall about one-fourth as thick as the minor axis of the internal cavity. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, four to eight times as broad as the bars. Proportion of both axes = 6 : 1. (Similar to a spongy cylinder of Aplysina.)

Subgenus 2. Spongellipsidium, Haeckel.

Shell ellipsoidal, covered with numerous (sixty to eighty) thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines, about half as long as the major axis. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, ten to twenty times as broad as the bars. Minor axis of the inner cavity twice as long as the thickness of the spongy wall. Proportion of both axes = 5 : 3.

Shell nearly cylindrical, covered with numerous thorns and thirty to forty larger conical radial spines, somewhat longer than the major axis. Spongy framework compact, with small meshes, four {343}to eight times as broad as the bars. Minor axis of the inner cavity about six times as large as the thickness of the spongy wall. Proportion of both axes = 4 : 1.

Genus 145. Spongurus,^[184] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 465.

Definition.—Spongurida with ellipsoidal or cylindrical (sometimes three-jointed) shell, of solid spongy framework, without internal cavity and without latticed medullary shell. Polar spines and outer lattice-mantle absent.

The genus Spongurus was founded by me in 1862 for the common cosmopolitan Spongurus cylindricus, a massive spongy cylinder with radial spines. I enlarge here the conception of the genus, in receiving also ellipsoidal, massive spongy Prunoidea, with or without radial spines. Sometimes the cylindrical shell is more or less distinctly three-jointed, with two annular strictures, as also in the following and nearly allied genus.

Subgenus 1. Spongurantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy framework everywhere of the same structure; surface smooth or rough, but without radial spines.

Shell ellipsoidal, one and a half times as long as broad, with nearly smooth surface. Spongy framework everywhere of equal structure, with small meshes, four to six times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell (or major axis) 0.2, breadth of it (or minor axis) 0.14.

Shell ellipsoidal, twice as long as broad, with thorny surface. Spongy framework everywhere of equal structure, with large meshes, ten to twenty times as broad as the bars.

Spongurus cylindricus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 119, Taf. vii. fig. 3.

Shell nearly cylindrical, five times as long as broad, with thorny surface. Spongy framework compact, everywhere of equal structure, with small meshes, scarcely broader than the bars.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2600 fathoms; fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily, Stöhr.

Subgenus 2. Spongurella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy framework everywhere of the same structure; surface armed with radial spines.

Haliomma asperum, Joh. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 40, Taf. ii. fig. 2.

Haliomma asperum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 431.

Shell ellipsoidal, one and a third times as long as broad, with thorny surface and twenty symmetrically disposed, thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines, about as long as the shell. Spongy framework everywhere of the same structure, very compact, with small meshes, three to four times as broad as the bars.

Spongurus cylindricus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 465, Taf. xxvii. fig. 1.

Shell cylindrical, four to five times as long as broad, with nearly smooth surface, and twenty to thirty thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines, about half as long as the shell. Spongy framework everywhere of the same structure, very compact, with small meshes, scarcely broader than the bars.

Shell nearly cylindrical, with two slight annular transverse strictures; its middle part is somewhat broader. Surface thorny, with numerous (forty to sixty or more) short, thin, radial spines, not longer than the breadth of the shell. Spongy framework everywhere of the same structure, compact, with small meshes, twice to three times as broad as the bars.

Subgenus 3. Sponguroma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy framework in the inner part of the shell very compact, in the outer part very loose; surface armed with radial spines.

Shell ellipsoidal, one and a half times as long as broad, with thorny surface, and eighty to one hundred and twenty (or more) thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines, somewhat longer than the shell. Spongy framework in the inner part very compact, in the outer part very loose, with a gradual transition between the two parts. Meshes in the central part not broader than the bars, in the superficial part ten to twenty times as broad.

Shell ellipsoidal, one and a third times as long as broad, with thorny surface, and thirty to forty thick, conical radial spines, about half as long as the shell. Spongy framework in the inner part of the shell compact, in the outer loose, with a gradual transition between the two parts. Meshes in the central part smaller than the bars, in the superficial part four to eight times as broad.

Genus 146. Spongocore,^[185] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongurida with ellipsoidal or cylindrical (sometimes three-jointed) shell of solid spongy framework, without internal cavity and without latticed medullary shell. Polar spines absent. An outer lattice-mantle is connected with the spongy shell by radial beams.

The genus Spongocore contains some widely distributed Spongurida, which are distinguished from the nearly related Spongurus by the development of a peculiar veil or mantle of delicate lattice-work, which envelops either the whole shell or only the middle part of it, and is connected with it by numerous radial beams. The distance of the simple fine lattice-lamella from the spongy shell is everywhere the same. Often the cylindrical shell is three-jointed, with two annular strictures, as also in the foregoing Spongurus. It is derived from the latter by development of the veil connecting the points of the radial spines.

Subgenus 1. Spongocorina, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell without distinct annular strictures, not evidently three-jointed.

Shell ellipsoidal, one and a half times as long as broad, without annular strictures. Spongy framework loose, with rather large meshes, four to six times as broad as the bars. The whole spongy shell enveloped by a delicate veil with smooth surface, connected with it by numerous thin radial beams. Breadth of the spongy ellipsoid (or minor axis) six times as large as its distance from the veil.

Dimensions.—Length of the whole shell (with veil) 0.3, breadth 0.2; distance of the veil from the spongy ellipsoid 0.035.

Shell cylindrical, three times as long as broad, without annular strictures. Spongy framework compact, with small meshes, twice to three times as broad as the bars. The whole surface of the spongy cylinder, with exception of both rounded polar faces, enveloped by a delicate cylindrical veil with smooth surface, connected with it by numerous radial beams. Diameter of the spongy cylinder twice as large as its distance from the veil.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.3, breadth (with veil) 0.1; distance of the veil 0.025.

Subgenus 2. Spongocorisca, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell distinctly three-jointed, with two transverse annular strictures.

Spongy shell cylindrical, without the veil six times as long as broad, three-jointed, with two annular strictures; all three joints of the same length. The whole spongy shell enveloped by a thin veil with thorny surface, connected with it by numerous radial beams. Breadth of the spongy cylinder three times as large as its distance from the veil.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell (with veil) 0.4, breadth 0.1; distance of the veil from the spongy shell 0.02.

Spongy shell cylindrical, without the veil four times as long as broad, three-jointed, with two annular strictures; all three joints of the same length. Only the middle joint enveloped by a thin veil with smooth surface, connected with it by radial beams. Both terminal joints with long, {347}bristle-shaped, radial spines. Breadth of the spongy cylinder twice as large as its distance from the veil.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.24, breadth (with veil) 0.12; distance of the veil 0.03.

Spongy shell cylindrical, without the veil six times as long as broad, three-jointed, with two annular strictures; the middle joint half as long as either terminal joint. Only the middle joint enveloped by a thin veil with spiny surface, connected with it by twenty to thirty radial beams, which are prolonged on the outside into short radial spines. Breadth of the spongy cylinder about equal to its distance from the veil.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2, breadth (with veil) 0.1; distance of the veil 0.033.

Spongy shell cylindrical, without the veil five times as long as broad, three-jointed, with two annular strictures; the middle joint twice as long as either terminal joint. Only the middle joint enveloped by a thin veil with delicate lattice-work and smooth surface; both terminal joints armed with numerous thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines. Breadth of the spongy cylinder twice as large as the distance from the veil.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.25 to 0.3, breadth (with veil) 0.1 to 0.12; distance of the veil 0.028 to 0.032.

Genus 147. Spongoprunum,^[186] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongurida with ellipsoidal or cylindrical shell of solid spongy framework, without internal cavity and without latticed medullary shell. On the poles of the axis occur two opposite strong spines.

The genus Spongoprunum differs from the most nearly allied Spongurus by the possession of two strong solid spines, lying in the axis of the ellipsoidal or cylindrical massive spongy shell, on its two opposite poles. Spongoprunum bears therefore the same relation to Spongurus that Ellipsoxiphus does to Cenellipsis.

Shell ellipsoidal, two and a third times as long as broad, with nearly smooth surface. Spongy framework very compact, in the whole solid shell of the same structure, with very small meshes, {348}scarcely broader than the bars. Two polar spines conical, very strong, about half as long as the main axis of the shell and three times as long as broad.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Station 265, depth 2900 fathoms; fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Shell spindle-shaped, twice as long as broad, with thorny surface. Spongy framework loose, in the whole shell of the same structure, with large meshes, eight to twelve times as broad as the bars. Two polar spines angular, pyramidal, very strong, about one-third as long as the shell, and twice as long as broad.

Shell nearly cylindrical, four times as long as broad, with rough surface. Spongy framework compact, in the whole shell of equal structure, with small meshes, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Two polar spines cylindrical, very large, longer than the shell, and about one-fourth as thick as its diameter.

Subfamily Spongodruppida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongurida with latticed medullary shell, enclosed by a spongy cortical shell.

Genus 148. Spongodruppa,^[187] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongurida with spongy ellipsoidal cortical shell, enclosing a simple, spherical or ellipsoidal, latticed medullary shell. Polar spines absent.

The genus Spongodruppa opens the series of Spongodruppida, or of those Spongurida in which the ellipsoidal spongy cortical shell encloses a simple or double, latticed, medullary shell. In Spongodruppa, the simplest and probably the ancestral form of this subfamily, the medullary shell is simple and the polar spines absent. It may be derived from Druppula by a spongy thickening of the simple latticed cortical shell.

Subgenus 1. Spongodruppula, Haeckel.

Cortical shell one and a third times as long as broad, with smooth surface, three times as broad as the spherical medullary shell. Spongy framework very compact, with small meshes of the same breadth as the bars. Thickness of the spongy wall equal to the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (or major axis of the ellipsoid) 0.16, breadth (or minor axis) 0.12; thickness of its wall 0.02; medullary shell 0.04.

Cortical shell one and a half times as long as broad, with thorny surface, nearly five times as broad as the spherical medullary shell. Spongy framework compact, its thickness equal to the diameter of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.2, breadth 0.14; thickness of its wall 0.03; medullary shell 0.03.

Cortical shell twice as long as broad, with rough surface, four times as large as the ellipsoidal medullary shell. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, its thickness equal to the length of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.25, breadth 0.13; thickness of its wall 0.06; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Spongodruppium, Haeckel.

Cortical shell one and a third times as long as broad, three times as broad as the spherical medullary shell. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, its thickness half as large as the diameter of the medullary shell. Surface covered with numerous (forty to fifty) thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines, about as long as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.18; thickness of its wall 0.035; diameter of the medullary shell 0.06.

Acanthosphæra elliptica, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 285, Taf. vii. fig. 4.

Cortical shell nearly twice as long as broad, four times as broad as the ellipsoidal medullary shell. Spongy framework compact, with small meshes. Surface covered with very numerous short radial spines, about as long as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.2, breadth 0.11; length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Haliomma polyacanthum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl., p. 36, Taf. i. figs. 10, 11.

Haliomma polyacanthum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 430.

Cortical shell one and a third times as long as broad, twice as broad as the ellipsoidal medullary shell. Spongy framework loose on the surface, with large regular meshes. Surface covered with fifteen to twenty thick, conical spines, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.09; diameter of the medullary shell 0.05 to 0.06.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (south coast of France); Atlantic (Canary Islands), Station 354, surface.

Genus 149. Spongatractus,^[188] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongurida with spongy ellipsoidal cortical shell, enclosing a simple, spherical or ellipsoidal, latticed medullary shell. On the poles of the axis occur two opposite strong spines.

The genus Spongatractus differs from Spongodruppa by development of two strong spines in the axis of the shell, on its two opposite poles; therefore it bears the same relation to the latter that Lithatractus does to Druppula, and can be derived from Lithatractus by a spongy thickening of the cortical shell.

Spongosphæra pachystyla, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 82, Taf. xxvi. fig. 3.

Cortical shell one and a half times as long as broad, with rough surface. Spongy framework compact, with small meshes, about as thick as the spherical medullary shell. Polar spines very {351}stout, conical, slightly sulcated, about as long as the breadth of the cortical shell, as broad at the base as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.2, breadth 0.13; thickness of the spongy wall 0.045; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados, Ehrenberg; living in the Equatorial Atlantic, Station 348, depth (2450) fathoms.

Cortical shell one and a third times as long as broad, with nearly smooth surface. Spongy framework very compact, with very small meshes, about as thick as the radius of the spherical medullary shell. Polar spines very strong, three-sided pyramidal, about as long as the breadth of the cortical shell, as broad at the base as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16 to 0.18, breadth 0.12 to 0.14; thickness of the spongy wall 0.02; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Cortical shell twice as long as broad, with thorny surface. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, about as thick as the ellipsoidal medullary shell. Polar spines very long, three-sided prismatic, with three spirally contorted edges, much longer than the cortical shell, half as broad as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.25, breadth 0.13; thickness of the spongy wall 0.03; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03 to 0.04.

Genus 150. Spongoliva,^[189] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongurida with spongy ellipsoidal cortical shell, enclosing a double, spherical or ellipsoidal, latticed medullary shell. Polar spines absent.

The genus Spongoliva differs from the nearest Spongodruppa by duplication of the medullary shell; it bears therefore the same relation to this that Prunulum does to Druppula, and can be regarded as a Prunulum, in which the simple latticed cortical shell is replaced by a spongy framework.

Subgenus 1. Spongolivetta, Haeckel.

Cortical shell one and a fourth times as long as broad, with smooth surface, four times as broad as the outer spherical medullary shell. Spongy framework very compact, with very small meshes, its thickness equal to the diameter of the outer medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.2, breadth 0.16; thickness of its wall 0.04; diameter of the outer medullary shell 0.04, of the inner 0.014.

Cortical shell one and a third times as long as broad, with smooth surface, three times as large as the outer ellipsoidal medullary shell. Spongy framework very compact, with small meshes, its thickness equal to the diameter of the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.18; thickness of its wall 0.03; size of the outer medullary shell 0.08 to 0.06, of the inner 0.03.

Cortical shell one and a half times as long as broad, with rough surface, five to six times as large as the ellipsoidal outer medullary shell. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, its thickness about equal to the outer medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.26, breadth 0.18; thickness of its wall 0.04; size of the outer medullary shell 0.045 to 0.035, of the inner 0.015.

Cortical shell twice as long as broad, with thorny surface, ten times as long as the small spherical outer medullary shell. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, its thickness one and a half times as large as the outer medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.3, breadth 0.16; thickness of its wall 0.045; size of the outer medullary shell 0.03, of the inner 0.015.

Subgenus 2. Spongolivina, Haeckel.

Cortical shell one and a third times as long as broad, armed with numerous thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines, nearly as long as the shell. Spongy framework loose, with large meshes, its thickness nearly equal to the diameter of the outer spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.14; thickness of its wall 0.035; diameter of the outer medullary shell 0.04, of the inner 0.02.

Cortical shell one and a half times as long as broad, armed with numerous, thick and short, conical radial spines, about as long as the outer medullary shell. Spongy framework compact, with small meshes, its thickness equal to half the length of the outer ellipsoidal medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.16; thickness of its wall 0.025; diameter of the outer medullary shell 0.045 to 0.035, of the inner 0.025.

Genus 151. Spongoxiphus,^[190] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongurida with spongy ellipsoidal cortical shell, enclosing a double, spherical or ellipsoidal, latticed medullary shell. On the poles of the axis occur two opposite strong spines.

The genus Spongoxiphus differs from Spongoliva by the development of two strong spines in the axis of the shell, on its two opposite poles. From the similar Spongatractus it differs in the duplication of the medullary shell. It may also be regarded as a Stylatractus, in which the simple latticed cortical shell is replaced by an irregular spongy framework.

Cortical shell one and a half times as long as broad, with thorny surface. Spongy framework compact, with small meshes, its thickness equal to the radius of the outer medullary shell. Both medullary shells spherical, the outer three times as broad as the inner. Polar spines very stout, conical, slightly sulcated, about half as long as the cortical shell, as broad at the base as the outer medullary shell. (Differs from Spongatractus pachystylus almost only in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.12; thickness of the spongy wall 0.025; diameter of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.016.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados (Haeckel); also living in the Pacific, central area, Station 265, depth 2900 fathoms.

Spongostylus prunococcus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455, et Atlas, pl. xvii. figs. 12, 13.

Cortical shell one and a third times as long as broad, with smooth surface. Spongy framework very compact, with very small meshes, its thickness about equals the breadth of the outer medullary shell. Both medullary shells ellipsoidal, the outer three times as large as the inner. Polar spines very stout, three-sided pyramidal, about half as long as the cortical shell, on the base about as broad as the outer medullary shell. (Differs from the preceding in the ellipsoidal form of both medullary shells, and in the finer structure of the spongy framework.)

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18 to 0.2, breadth 0.14 to 0.16; thickness of the spongy wall 0.035 to 0.04; length of the outer medullary shell 0.04 to 0.06, breadth 0.03 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 265 to 268, depths 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Family XIV. Artiscida, Haeckel (Pl. 39, figs. 9, 10; Pl. 48, fig. 5).

Definition.—Prunoidea with an ellipsoidal twin-shell divided by an equatorial stricture into two communicating hemiellipsoidal or hemispherical chambers, without enclosed medullary shell. Central capsule ellipsoidal, with or without equatorial stricture.

The family Artiscida has a simple fenestrated outer shell, like that of the Ellipsida, but differs from these in the presence of an equatorial constriction, by which it assumes a characteristic twin form, somewhat similar to a violin (Pl. 39, figs. 9, 10). From the Cyphinida, which have the same form of the cortical shell, the Artiscida differ in the absence of the medullary shell. It is possible that the Artiscida are descended from the Cyphinida (by loss of the medullary shell), but it is more probable that they arise from the Ellipsida by an annular constriction in the equatorial plane (perhaps the formation of the shell originally took place while the central capsule was undergoing division). Both halves of the twin shell are always of the same size and form. Its outer surface is either smooth or covered with radial spines (Artiscus, Pl. 39, fig. 9). Sometimes on the opposite poles of the main axis are developed solid spines (Stylartus, Pl. 48, fig. 5) or hollow fenestrated tubes (Cannartus, Pl. 39, fig. 10).

The Central Capsule is either simply ellipsoidal, or has also an equatorial constriction, which divides it into two equal halves. It is constantly smaller than the surrounding shell, and separated from its inner surface by a thicker or thinner jelly-mantle, the calymma.

Synopsis of the Genera of Artiscida.

Genus 152. Artiscus,^[191] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 462.

Definition.—Artiscida without peculiar polar appendages (without strong solid spines or hollow fenestrated tubes on the poles of the main axis).

The genus Artiscus represents the most simple and primitive form of the Artiscida, and may therefore be regarded as the ancestral form of this subfamily. It resembles an ordinary double loaf, composed of two equal, nearly ellipsoidal fenestrated shells separated by the stricture in the equatorial plane. Artiscus can be derived from Cenellipsis simply by this equatorial constriction. But it can also be derived from Cyphanta by loss of the medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Artiscium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the shell smooth or rough, without radial rods or spines.

Pores of the shell regular, hexagonal, four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve pores on the half meridian, eight to nine on the half equator. Surface smooth. (The network of this species is quite the same as that of the proximal cameræ of Panartus diploconus, Pl. 40, fig. 1.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the shell 0.12, equatorial axis 0.07; meshes 0.013, bars 0.003.

Pores of the shell regular, circular, with prominent hexagonal frame, twice as broad as the bars; twenty-two to twenty-four pores on the half meridian, fourteen to fifteen on the half equator. Surface a little thorny. (The shell of this species exhibits nearly the same formation as that of Cyphonium virgineum, Pl. 39, fig. 12, but without enclosed medullary shells.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the shell 0.15, equatorial axis 0.09; meshes 0.01, bars 0.005.

Pores of the shell regular, circular, without hexagonal frame, as broad as the bars; fourteen to sixteen pores on the half meridian, ten to eleven on the half equator. Surface quite smooth.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the shell 0.13, equatorial axis 0.06; meshes 0.01, bars 0.01.

Pores of the shell irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen pores on the half meridian, twelve to thirteen on the half equator. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the shell 0.11, equatorial axis 0.06; meshes 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.001 to 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Artidium, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 462.

Pores of the shell regular, circular, with hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; fourteen pores on the half meridian, eight to nine on the half equator. From every corner of the hexagonal frames (between every three pores) starts a thin, three-sided pyramidal spine, twice as large as a pore.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.13, equatorial axis 0.08; meshes 0.007, bars 0.004; spines 0.015 long.

Pores of the shell subregular, circular, without hexagonal frame, three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator. Irregularly scattered on the whole surface a variable number (twenty-five to thirty in all) of stout short radial spines or rather blunt rods; the length and thickness of these is the same, and equals the size of two to three meshes; its form resembles a truncated six-sided pyramid.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.11, equatorial axis 0.08; meshes 0.01, bars 0.003; length and thickness of the radial sticks 0.02.

Pores of the shell irregular, roundish, of very unequal size and dissimilar form, twice to eight times as broad as the bars; ten to fifteen on the half meridian, seven to nine on the half equator. Irregularly scattered on the whole surface a large number of thin conical spines, about as large as the meshes, partly directed radially, partly obliquely. (The shell of this species resembles very much that of Cyphonium ceratospyris (p. 366) = Didymocyrtis ceratospyris, Monogr. d. Radiol., 1862, Taf. xxii. fig. 14, but is without the enclosed inner shells.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.12, equatorial axis 0.07; meshes 0.004 to 0.02, bars 0.002 to 0.005; spines 0.01 to 0.02.

Genus 153. Stylartus,^[192] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 462.

Definition.—Artiscida with two strong, solid, polar spines, or two bunches of polar spines, opposite on the two poles of the main axis.

The genus Stylartus differs from Artiscus by the production of two large opposite spines in the main axis, starting from both poles of it; sometimes every spine is surrounded by a group of smaller radial spines. The genus is nearly allied to Ellipsoxiphus (p. 295), and differs from it only in the equatorial stricture of the ellipsoidal shell. But it may also be derived from the similar Cyphinus (Pl. 39, fig. 14) by loss of the medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Stylartella, Haeckel.

Shell thick walled, rough; both its chambers nearly spherical, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half equator of each chamber. Polar spines very strong, conical, as long as the greatest breadth.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell (without spines) 0.18, greatest breadth 0.13; length of the polar spines 0.13, basal breadth 0.03.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the half equator of each chamber. Polar spines very stout, straight, three-sided pyramidal, half as long as the shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.16, greatest breadth 0.12; length of the polar spines 0.08, basal thickness 0.025.

Subgenus 2. Stylartura, Haeckel.

Shell thick walled, thorny, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; fifteen to eighteen on the half equator of each chamber. On each pole of the main axis a large conical spine, surrounded by a group of ten to fifteen smaller spines, one-third to two-thirds as long as the breadth of the deep equatorial stricture.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.14, greatest breadth 0.09; length of the polar spines 0.03 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.005 to 0.015.

Shell thin walled, smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, three to four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. On each pole of the main axis a brush-like bunch of twenty to thirty thin conical radial spines, half as long as the shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.15, greatest breadth 0.1; length of the polar spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.005.

Genus 154. Cannartus,^[193] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 462.

Definition.—Artiscida with two hollow polar tubes (fenestrated cylindrical or conical tubuli, opposite on the two poles of the main axis).

The genus Cannartus differs from Artiscus by the production of two opposite hollow tubes on both poles of the main axis. The cavity of the conical or cylindrical fenestrated tubes communicates freely with that of the shell; the network in both is the same. The distal end of the tubes is nearly always broken off, sometimes closed, with a conical apex. Cannartus can be derived either from Pipettella by a transverse equatorial constriction, or from Cannartiscus by the loss of the medullary shell, or from Artiscus by the production of the polar tubes.

Pores of the shell subregular, circular, twice to three times as broad as the bars; eighteen to twenty on the half meridian, fourteen to sixteen on the half equator. Shell-wall in the "tropical zone" of both halves thickened. Polar tubes nearly cylindrical, about as long as the main axis, distal ends broken off.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.14, equatorial axis 0.09; meshes 0.008, bars 0.003; length of the polar tubes 0.12, breadth 0.02 to 0.03.

Pores of the shell regular, circular, hexagonally framed, of the same breadth as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator. Polar tubes cylindrical, longer than the main axis, sulcated, distal ends broken off. (Similar to Pipetta tuba, Pl. 39, fig. 7, but with equatorial stricture and without medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.16, equatorial axis 0.12; meshes and bars 0.006; length of the polar tubes 0.2, breadth 0.025.

Pores of the shell irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half meridian, six to eight on the half equator. Polar tubes conical, shorter than the main axis, with closed apex. (Similar to Cannartidium bicinctum, Pl. 39, fig. 18, but without enclosed medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.11, equatorial axis 0.07; meshes 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the polar tubes 0.08, breadth on the base 0.03.

Family XV. Cyphinida, Haeckel (Pl. 39, figs. 11-19).

Definition.—Prunoidea with ellipsoidal twin-shell, divided by an equatorial stricture into two communicating hemiellipsoidal or hemispherical chambers; this external twin-shell (cortical shell) is either simple or double, and encloses one or more internal concentric shells (medullary shells). Central capsule ellipsoidal, commonly with an equatorial constriction.

The family Cyphinida have the same characteristic twin-form of the cortical shell as the Artiscida, but differ from them in the presence of a simple or double internal medullary shell, connected with the cortical shell by radial beams. The fenestrated shell is therefore composed of two or more concentric shells as in the Druppulida, but differs from these in the ring-like equatorial constriction.

The Medullary Shell, in the middle of the central capsule, is either single or double, composed of two concentric shells. As in the Druppulida, the form of the medullary shells is either spherical (Pl. 39, fig. 12a) or lenticular, compressed from both poles of the main axis (Pl. 39, fig. 18a); sometimes the inner medullary shell is spherical, the outer lenticular.

The Radial Beams, which connect the medullary shell with the equatorial constriction of the cortical shell, lie either all in the equatorial plane (Pl. 39, fig. 11) or near it on both sides (Pl. 39, figs. 12a, 18a).

The Cortical Shell is commonly simple (Pl. 39, figs. 12, 18), sometimes composed of two concentric shells (Pl. 39, fig. 13), rarely of three. As in the Artiscida, also in the Cyphinida, from both poles of the main axis solid spines or hollow fenestrated tubes are often developed (Pl. 39, figs. 14, 16-18).

The Central Capsule of the Cyphinida (Pl. 39, fig. 13) is of the same form as in the Artiscida, generally ellipsoidal, but with an equatorial ring-like stricture, which divides it into two equal halves. It encloses the simple or double medullary shell, and is perforated by the radial beams starting from this. From the inner surface of the surrounding cortical shell it is separated by a thicker or thinner jelly-layer, the calymma. (Compare also Taf. xxii. fig. 14 of my Monograph, 1862.)

Synopsis of the Genera of Cyphinida.

Genus 155. Cyphanta,^[194] n. gen.

Definition.—Cyphinida with simple cortical shell and simple medullary shell, without polar spines or tubes.

The genus Cyphanta is the most simple of all Cyphinida, and can be regarded as the common ancestral form of this family. It may be derived phylogenetically from Druppula by a ring-like constriction in the equatorial plane of the ellipsoidal cortical shell, or from Artiscus by secondary formation of a central (spherical or ellipsoidal) medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Cyphantella, Haeckel.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface; its pores regular, hexagonal, three to four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half meridian, seven to eight on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, its diameter one-third of the equatorial axis of the cortical shell. (The cortical shell of this species is nearly identical with the central half of the cortical shell of Panartus diploconus, Pl. 40, fig. 1.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.12, equatorial axis 0.07; meshes 0.013; bars 0.003; diameter of the medullary shell 0.025.

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface; pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; eighteen to twenty on the half meridian, twelve to fourteen on the half equator. Medullary shell spherical, its diameter one-half of the equatorial axis of the cortical shell. (The shell of this species is very similar to that of Cannartiscus amphiconiscus, Pl. 39, fig. 19, but without the polar tubes of that species.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.13, equatorial axis 0.08; meshes 0.007, bars 0.003; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Ommatospyris lævis, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 318.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface; pores of it irregular, roundish, of very different size (some very large in the tropical circles of both hemispheres). Pores twice to six times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half meridian, six to eight on the half equator. Medullary shell spheroidal, compressed, its main axis somewhat shorter than its equatorial axis, which attains half the length of that of the cortical shell. (This species may be perhaps identical with Ommatospyris lævis of Ehrenberg, the diagnosis of which is insufficient and figure not given.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.1, equatorial axis 0.06; meshes 0.005 to 0.02, bars 0.002 to 0.04; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03.

Habitat.—Philippine Sea (Ehrenberg), Station 213, depths 2650 and 3300 fathoms.

Cortical shell very delicate and thin walled, cobweb-like, with smooth surface; pores irregular, polygonal (mostly pentagonal or hexagonal), eight to ten times as broad as the thread-like bars; ten to twelve on the half meridian, six to eight on the half equator. Medullary shell spheroidal, compressed, its main axis shorter than its equatorial axis, which is about one-third that of the cortical shell. (This species is very similar to the middle part of the shell of Ommatocampe profundissima, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. viii. fig. 6.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.11, equatorial axis 0.06; meshes 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.002; diameter of the medullary shell 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Cyphantissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell spiny, everywhere scattered with numerous thorns or spines.

Cortical shell thick walled, with spiny surface; pores regular, circular, with hexagonal frame, twice as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen on the half meridian, eight to ten on the half equator. From the corners of the hexagonal frames (between every three pores) arise short, straight, conical radial spines, somewhat longer than the breadth of the pores. Medullary shell subspherical, its diameter about one-third of the equatorial axis of the cortical shell. (The appearance of the cortical shell is the same as that of the middle part of Peripanartus amphiconus, Pl. 40, fig. 5.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.12, equatorial axis 0.07; meshes 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the spines 0.012; diameter of the medullary shell 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, with thorny surface; pores irregular, roundish, of very unequal size, twice to six times as broad as the bars; twelve to eighteen on the half meridian, eight to thirteen on the half equator. Between the pores irregularly scattered, bristle-like, thin spines about the same size, partly straight, partly oblique, rising from the surface. Medullary shell lenticular, compressed, its equatorial axis one and a half times the length of the main axis, and about half that of the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.15, equatorial axis 0.09; meshes 0.004 to 0.02, bars 0.003 to 0.006; length of the spines 0.02; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Genus 156. Cyphonium,^[195] n. gen.

Definition.—Cyphinida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar spines or tubes.

The genus Cyphonium contains a number of very common species, among which are the earliest known forms of this family, partly described by Ehrenberg as Ommatospyris {363}(which genus contains also a number of other Prunoidea), partly by me (1862) as Didymocyrtis. Both names are inadequate, as allusions to quite different families of Nassellaria, but may be retained as significations of subgeneric divisions. Cyphonium differs from Cyphanta by the double medullary shell, which is either spherical or lenticular.

Subgenus 1. Ommatospyris, Ehrenberg (partim).

Ommatospyris coscinoides, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 462.

Cortical shell thin walled, with smooth surface; pores regular, hexagonal, three to four times as broad as the bars; five to six on the half meridian, eight to nine on the half equator of each chamber. Medullary shells both spherical. (The cortical shell of this species is nearly the same as that of Cyphanta colpodes, and as the middle part of the cortical shell of Panartus diploconus, Pl. 40, fig. 1.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.11, equatorial axis 0.06; greatest breadth of the chambers 0.08; pores 0.013, bars 0.003.

Ommatospyris virginea, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxix. fig. 12a).

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface (sometimes a little rough with very small thorns); pores subregular, circular, with hexagonal elevated frames, about as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the half meridian, sixteen to eighteen on the half equator of each chamber. Medullary shells (fig. 12a) both spherical. (Sometimes, as in the figured specimen, the shell is somewhat irregular, an individual abnormality.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.13 to 0.15; equatorial axis of the structure 0.08 to 0.09, of each chamber 0.1 to 0.12, pores and bars 0.005 to 0.007.

Ommatospyris ethmaria, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 462.

Cortical shell thin walled, with quite smooth surface; pores subregular, circular (without hexagonal frame), twice as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the half meridian of each chamber, sixteen to eighteen on its half equator. Medullary shells both spherical. (This species resembles the proximal internal chambers of Peripanartus atractus, Pl. 40, fig. 7.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.13, equatorial axis 0.07; greatest breadth 0.09; pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Cortical shell thick walled, with rough surface; pores subregular, circular (without hexagonal frame), not broader than the bars; five to six on the half meridian of each chamber, nine to ten on its half equator. Medullary shells both compressed, lenticular. This species resembles Cypassis entomocora vel Ommatocampe trinacria, Stöhr, 1880, loc. cit., p. 90, Taf. ii. fig. 1, but has not its external mantle. It may be the ancestral form of it (both in an ontogenetic and phylogenetic sense).

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.11, equatorial axis 0.07; greatest breadth 0.08; pores 0.005, bars 0.005.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily, Caltanisetta, Haeckel (Grotte, Stöhr?).

Cortical shell thin walled, with quite smooth surface; pores irregular, polygonal, mostly pentagonal or hexagonal, three to six times as broad as the bars; six to seven on the half meridian of the chamber, ten to twelve on its half equator. Medullary shells both spherical. (Resembles Cyphonium profundum, Ehrenberg, 1872, loc. cit., Taf. x. fig. 5, but does not possess the spines of the surface.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.13, equatorial axis 0.06; greatest breadth 0.08; pores 0.005 to 0.012, bars 0.002 to 0.004.

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface (sometimes a little rough); pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; eleven to twelve on the half meridian of each chamber, sixteen to nineteen on its half equator. Internal medullary shell spherical, external lenticular compressed, sometimes both spherical or both compressed. (Resembles the internal cortical twin-shell of Cyphocolpus virginis, Pl. 40, fig. 11.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.14, equatorial axis 0.08, greatest breadth 0.09; pores 0.004 to 0.006, bars 0.002.

Subgenus 2. Ommatocyrtis, Haeckel.

Didymocyrtis hexagonia, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Cortical shell thin walled, with spiny surface; pores regular or subregular, hexagonal, twice to three times as broad as the bars; five to six on the half meridian, nine to ten on the half equator {365}of each chamber. Radial spines between them conical, about as long as the pores. Medullary shells both spherical.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.14, equatorial axis 0.08; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.1; pores 0.012, bars 0.004.

Didymocyrtis facettaria Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Cortical shell thick walled, with spiny surface; pores subregular, circular, with elevated hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the half meridian, fourteen to sixteen on the half equator of each chamber. In the corners of the hexagons (between every three meshes) arise radial spines, about twice as long as the pores. Both medullary shells spheroidal compressed. (This species is nearly identical with the internal cortical twin-shell of Peripanartus amphiconiscus, Pl. 40, fig. 5.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.12, equatorial axis 0.07; greatest breadth of both chambers 0.09; pores 0.01, bars 0.005, spines 0.02.

Cortical shell thick walled, with spiny surface; pores regular, circular, about as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half meridian of each chamber, thirteen to fifteen on its half equator. Radial spines between them conical, twice as long as the pores. Medullary shells both lenticular.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.11, equatorial axis 0.06; greatest breadth 0.08; pores and bars 0.004.

Ommatospyris profunda, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 297, Taf. viii. fig. 5, Taf. x. fig. 5.

Cortical shell thin walled, with thorny surface; pores irregular, polygonal, three to six times as broad as the thin bars; five to six on the half meridian of each chamber, ten to twelve on its half equator. Thorns of the surface short. Medullary shells both spherical.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.1, equatorial axis 0.06; greatest breadth 0.07; pores 0.005 to 0.012, bars 0.002, spines 0.005.

Habitat.—Pacific, tropical zone; Philippine Sea, depth 3300 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Stations 266 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Didymocyrtis ceratospyris, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 445, pl. xxii. figs. 14-16.

Haliomma didymocyrtis, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 816.

Cortical shell thin walled, with spiny surface; pores irregular, roundish, three to nine times as broad as the bars; five to six on the half meridian of each chamber, eight to nine on its half equator. Spines of the surface partly very short, partly as long as the largest pores, either radially or obliquely inserted. Medullary shells both spherical. (Compare the detailed description and figures also of the soft body in my Monograph, loc. cit.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.12, equatorial axis (in the stricture) 0.06; greatest breadth 0.08; pores 0.03 to 0.2, bars 0.002 to 0.006, spines 0.05 to 0.015.

Genus 157. Cypassis,^[196] n. gen.

Definition.—Cyphinida with double cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar spines or tubes.

The genus Cypassis differs from Cyphonium by duplication of the cortical twin-shell; from the outer surface of the simple twin-shell arise numerous radial spines, which become connected by anastomosing transverse branches, and in this manner form an outer envelope or mantle. Cypassis may also be regarded as a Cromyodruppa, the double cortical shell of which is constricted in the equatorial plane.

Subgenus 1. Didymospyris, Haeckel (1881).

Inner cortical shell thin walled, with regular, circular, hexagonally-framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half meridian of each chamber, ten to twelve on its half equator. Outer cortical shell very thin, with smooth surface, and very small, irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times smaller than those of the inner shell. Distance between the two cortical shells equals the diameter of the outer medullary shell, which, like the inner, is spherical. (The network of this species resembles that of Peripanartus amphiconiscus, Pl. 40, fig. 5.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the external cortical shell 0.18, of the internal 0.12; greatest breadth (in the equator of each chamber) of the former 0.13, of the latter 0.09; pores of the outer 0.002 to 0.005, of the inner shell 0.01, bars 0.002 to 0.005.

Inner cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars (without hexagonal frames); nine to ten on the half meridian of each chamber, fifteen to seventeen on its half equator. Outer cortical shell very thin, with smooth surface, and very small, irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times smaller than those of the inner shell. Distance between the two cortical shells about one and a half times the diameter of the inner medullary shell, which, like the outer, is spherical. (The inner cortical shell resembles that of Cannartiscus amphiconiscus, Pl. 39, fig. 19, but without polar tubes.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the external cortical shell 0.2, of the internal 0.15; greatest breadth of the former 0.16, of the latter 0.12; pores of the outer 0.002, of the inner 0.006, bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Didymocyrtis, Haeckel (1862).

Astromma entomocora, Ehrenberg, 1847, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxii. fig. 32.

Haliomma didymum, Ehrenberg, 1844, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 83.

? Haliomma amphisiphon, Ehrenberg, 1844, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 267.

Ommatospyris entomocora, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, pp. 66, 74.

? Ommatocampe trinacria, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 90, Taf. ii. fig. 1.

Didymospyris entomocora, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Didymocyrtis entomocora, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 445.

Inner cortical shell thick walled, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars (without hexagonal frames); eight to nine on the half meridian of each chamber, ten to eleven on its half equator. Outer cortical shell thin walled, with regular, circular pores like those of the inner. Distance between the two cortical shells equals about twice the diameter of one pore (or the short axis of the lenticular double medullary shell). Surface covered with short conical spines (in the figure of Ehrenberg broken off).

Dimensions.—Main axis of the external cortical shell 0.2, of the internal 0.15; greatest breadth of the former 0.13, of the latter 0.1; pores of the outer 0.005 to 0.01, of the inner 0.01, bars 0.004; length of the surface spines 0.005 to 0.01.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados, Bermuda, and Sicily (Caltanisetta); also living in the greatest depth of the Pacific, Stations 268, 225, depth 2900 to 4475.

Didymospyris colpodes, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxix., fig. 13).

Internal cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, circular pores of very different size, once to four times as broad as the bars; fourteen to fifteen on the half meridian of each chamber, eighteen {368}to twenty on its half equator. Outer cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, circular pores, only one-third to one-half as large as those of the inner. Distance between the two shells equals the largest diameter of the double lenticular medullary shell. Surface of both cortical shells covered with short conical spines (not longer than the largest pores).

Dimensions.—Main axis of the external cortical shell 0.2, of the internal 0.15, of the central capsule 0.1; greatest breadth of the first 0.14, of the second 0.1, of the third 0.07; pores of the outer shell 0.001 to 0.005, of the inner 0.002 to 0.01, bars 0.002 to 0.003; length of the surface spines 0.005 to 0.01.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area; Stations 266 to 274, surface; Atlantic, Canary Islands (Haeckel), Station 354, surface.

Internal cortical shell thin walled, with irregular, roundish pores, once to three times as broad as the bars; ten to eleven on half meridian of each chamber, fourteen to sixteen on its half equator. Outer cortical shell thin walled, with very delicate network, spindle-like, with conical prolongations at both poles. Distance between the two shells larger than the greatest diameter of the double lenticular medullary shell. Surface of both cortical shells covered with innumerable small thorns. (Resembles closely Cyphocolpus virginis, Pl. 40, fig. 11, but without the third shell.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the external cortical shell 0.21, of the internal 0.14, greatest breadth of the former 0.13, of the later 0.09; pores 0.003 to 0.009; bars of the outer shell 0.001, of the inner 0.004.

Genus 158. Cyphocolpus,^[197] n. gen.

Definition.—Cyphinida with triple cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar spines or tubes.

The genus Cyphocolpus differs from both foregoing genera by the increased number of the cortical twin-shells. Whilst these are simple in Cyphonium, double in Cypassis, they are triple in Cyphocolpus, composed of three concentric envelopes. The three genera named represent a phylogenetic series, which is repeated in the ontogenetic development of Cyphocolpus.

Inner cortical shell with circular, subregular pores, twice as broad as the bars; five to six on the half meridian of each chamber, eight to ten on its half equator. Middle cortical shell also with subregular, circular pores of the same size. Outer cortical shell with smooth surface, with more irregular, roundish pores of very different size. The distance between every two shells equals the diameter of the inner medullary shell, which, like the outer, is spheroidal.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the outer cortical shell 0.3, of the middle 0.22, of the inner 0.15; greatest breadth of the inner cortical shell 0.1, its pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Zygartus virginis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xl. fig. 11).

Inner cortical shell with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; eleven to twelve on the half meridian of each chamber, sixteen to eighteen on its half equator. Middle cortical shell with very delicate network, its irregular, polygonal pores of the same size as those of the inner, but separated by extremely thin bars. Outer cortical shell with spiny surface, and with more irregular, roundish pores of different size. The distance between each two shells is variable, and attains more than the diameter of the outer medullary shell, which, like the inner, is spheroidal, slightly compressed.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the outer cortical shell 0.26, of the middle 0.22, of the inner 0.14; greatest breadth of the inner cortical shell 0.09, its pores 0.004 to 0.006, bars 0.002.

Genus 159. Cyphinus,^[198] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 463.

Definition.—Cyphinida with simple cortical shell and simple medullary shell, with two opposite polar spines (or bunches of polar spines) on the poles of the main axis.

The genus Cyphinus differs from Cyphanta by the development of two opposite spines (or bunches of spines) on both poles of the main axis. It simulates therefore the bipolar formation of Stylartus, and differs from this in the possession of a medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Cyphinoma, Haeckel.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, and circular, regular pores, twice as broad as the bars; five to six pores on the half meridian of each chamber, ten to twelve on its half equator. On both poles of the main axis, one single, very strong, conical spine, about half as long as this axis, and half as broad at the base as the spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell (without spines) 0.2, greatest breadth (in the equator of each chamber) 0.1; pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal thickness of them 0.02.

Cortical shell with rough surface, and irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to nine pores on the half meridian of each chamber, twelve to fourteen on its half equator. On both poles of the main axis, one single, strong, conical spine, with prominent edges at the base, and nearly as broad as the spherical medullary shell, nearly as long as the main axis.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without spines) 0.18, greatest breadth 0.13; pores 0.003 to 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.16, basal thickness 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Cyphinura, Haeckel.

Definition.—On both poles of the main axis a bunch or circle of several spines.

Cyphinidium amphilophus, Haeckel, 1882, Atlas (pl. xxxix. fig. 14).

Cortical shell thick walled, with rough surface, and subregular, circular pores of different size, twice to five times as broad as the bars; nine to ten pores on the half meridian of each chamber, twelve to fourteen on its half equator. On both poles of the main axis a bunch of six to eight strong conical spines, the largest of which are about as long as the greatest breadth of the shell; their basal part is furrowed, and nearly half as thick as the spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell (without spines) 0.18 to 0.2, greatest breadth 0.1 to 0.12; pores 0.004 to 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.04 to 0.12, basal thickness 0.02 to 0.04.

Ommatospyris penicillata, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 318; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. viii. fig. 4.

Cortical shell thin walled, with rough surface, and irregular, polygonal pores, six to eight times as broad as the bars; five to six pores on the half meridian of each chamber, nine to ten on its half equator. Around both poles of the main axis a polar circle of eight to ten divergent radial spines, scarcely thicker than the bars, and about as long as the diameter of the spherical medullary shell. (In the figure of Ehrenberg the network is too thin and the spines too short.)

Dimensions.—Main axis (without spines) 0.1, greatest breadth 0.09; pores 0.008 to 0.014, bars 0.001 to 0.002; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Pacific, Philippine Sea, 3300 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 206, depth 2100 fathoms.

Genus 160. Cyphinidium,^[199] n. gen.

Definition.—Cyphinida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two opposite polar spines (or bunches of polar spines) on the poles of the main axis.

The genus Cyphinidium differs from Cyphinus only in the duplication of the medullary shell, which is composed of two concentric spheres or somewhat compressed lenticular spheroids. It exhibits therefore the same relation to Cyphinus that Stylatractus in the Druppulida bears to Lithatractus. Possibly the two former genera are derived from the two latter by an annular constriction in the equatorial plane.

Subgenus 1. Cyphinidoma, Haeckel.

Definition.—On both poles of the cortical shell one single polar spine or a bunch of polar spines.

Cortical shell thick walled, with smooth surface, and subregular, circular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half meridian, sixteen to eighteen on the half equator of each chamber. Both medullary shells spherical. The cortical shell resembles very much that of Cannartiscus amphiconiscus (Pl. 39, fig. 19), but exhibits instead of the hollow polar tubes two strong solid polar spines of conical form, half as long as the main axis, and as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell (without polar spines) 0.14, greatest breadth 0.1; pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.08, basal thickness 0.02.

Ommatospyris apicata, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 317.

Cortical shell thin walled, with thorny surface, and irregular, polygonal pores, three to five times as broad as the thin bars; eight to nine on the half meridian, thirteen to fifteen on the half equator of each chamber. On both poles a bunch of four to eight strong conical spines, the central of which (in the main axis) is much larger than the others, and twice as long as the diameter of the outer spheroidal medullary shell; size and number of the polar spines is very variable (commonly five to six).

Dimensions.—Main axis (without spines) 0.12, greatest breadth 0.08; pores 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.02 to 0.06, basal thickness 0.01.

Habitat.—Northern Pacific, Californian Sea, depth 2500 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 253, depth 3125 fathoms.

Subgenus 2. Cyphinidura, Haeckel.

Definition.—On both poles of the cortical shell, a circle of divergent polar spines.

Cortical shell with thorny surface, and irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half meridian, eleven to thirteen on the half equator of each chamber. Around both poles of the main axis occurs a circle of ten to twelve strong, radially divergent spines, about as long as the diameter of the outer medullary shell, which, like the inner, is spheroidal. (This species is identical with the younger developmental stage of Panicium coronatum, Pl. 40, fig. 4, before the formation of two distal chambers.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.12, greatest breadth 0.1; pores 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.004; length of the polar spines 0.02, thickness 0.005.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Genus 161. Cannartiscus,^[200] n. gen.

Definition.—Cyphinida with simple cortical shell and simple medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated polar tubes, opposite on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Cannartiscus differs from Cyphanta in the development of two hollow fenestrated tubes, opposite on both poles of the main axis. It simulates therefore the characteristic formation of Cannartus, and differs from this Artiscid in the possession of a medullary shell.

Cannartidium amphiconiscus, Haeckel, 1882, Atlas (pl. xxxix. fig. 19).

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth, with regular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the half meridian, sixteen to eighteen on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubes conical, about as long as one single chamber, on the base somewhat broader than the simple spherical medullary shell. Pores of the tubes only one-third as great as those of the chambers.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell (without tubes) 0.14, greatest breadth 0.1; {373}pores 0.008, bars 0.004. Length of the polar tubes 0.07, basal breadth 0.04; pores 0.003, bars 0.002.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, with subregular, circular pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; six to seven on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubes cylindrical, on the distal end open (broken off?) nearly as long as the main axis, somewhat narrower than the spherical medullary shell. Pores of the tubes much smaller than those of the chambers.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without tubes) 0.17, greatest breadth 0.12; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003. Length of the polar tubes 0.15, breadth of them 0.03; pores 0.003, bars 0.002.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, 2900 fathoms; the same form occurs fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Genus 162. Cannartidium,^[201] n. gen.

Definition.—Cyphinida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated polar tubes, opposite on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Cannartidium differs from Cannartiscus and Cannartus in the duplication of the medullary shell, which is composed of two concentric spheres or compressed lenticular spheroids. The three genera named form therefore one morphological series, with identical cortical shell, and only differing in the absence or presence of a simple or double medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Cannartidella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell smooth or a little rough, but without spines or fenestrated protuberances.

Cortical shell thick walled, smooth with regular circular pores twice as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the half meridian, fifteen to sixteen on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubes conical, with smaller pores, tapering towards the closed apex, about as long as one single chamber, at the base one-third as broad as the equatorial constriction. Both concentric medullary shells spherical. (Nearly identical with Cannartiscus amphiconiscus, Pl. 39, fig. 19, but differs in the possession of the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell (without tubes) 0.15, greatest breadth 0.11; pores 0.009, bars 0.004; length of the polar tubes 0.08, basal breadth 0.04.

"Curious twin Polycystin," Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xx. fig. 4.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, with regular, circular pores, not broader than the bars; six to seven on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubes cylindrical, at the distal end open (broken off?), nearly as long as the main axis, about one-third as broad as the equatorial constriction. Both concentric medullary shells spherical.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.14, greatest breadth 0.11; pores and bars 0.005; length of the polar tubes 0.13, breadth of them 0.03.

? Haliomma amphisiphon, Ehrenberg, 1844, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 267.

Cortical shell thick walled, rough, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times as broad as the bars; five to six on the half meridian, nine to ten on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubes conical, with smaller pores, about as long as one single chamber, half as broad at the base as the equatorial constriction. (This deep-sea form is probably identical with that fossil species which Ehrenberg, in 1844, described as Haliomma amphisiphon, and which he afterwards, in 1875, erroneously identified with his Astromma entomocora (= Cypassis entomocora). But the figure given of the latter is quite different from the given diagnosis of the former.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell (without tubes) 0.13, greatest breadth 0.1; pores 0.006 to 0.12, bars 0.003; length of the polar tubes 0.07, basal breadth of them 0.04.

Habitat.—Tropical Atlantic, Antilles, Station 24, depth 390 fathoms; fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Bermuda.

Cortical shell thick walled, with a thickened ring-shaped protuberance in the greatest breadth of both chambers. Pores subregular, circular, twice to three times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half meridian, thirteen to fifteen on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubes conical, with smaller pores, somewhat shorter than the greatest breath, nearly as thick at the base as the outer spheroidal medullary shell (fig. 18a).

Dimensions.—Main axis (without tubes) 0.12, greatest breadth 0.08; pores 0.003 to 0.006, bars 0.002; length of the polar tubes 0.08, basal thickness 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Cannartidissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell with conical fenestrated protuberances in the greatest breadth of both chambers.

Cortical shell-thin walled, having a circle of six to eight conical protuberances in the greatest breadth of both chambers, each of which exhibits a central apical pore, surrounded by a circle of six to eight oblique larger pores. Between the protuberances occur nine to ten pores on the half meridian of each chamber, circular, subregular, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Polar tubes cylindrical, conical at the closed end, with smaller pores, about as long as the greatest breadth of the chambers, as broad as the spherical outer medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without tubes) 0.13, greatest breadth (including the protuberances) 0.1; pores 0.005 to 0.008, bars 0.003; length of the polar tubes 0.09, basal thickness 0.02.

Cortical shell thin walled, of the same form and structure as in the foregoing species, differs from this mainly in the form of the polar tubes, which are not cylindrical but conical, tapering gradually from the base towards the closed apex. Besides this, the conical protuberances (six in the greatest periphery of each chamber) are more regular and acute, with smaller and more numerous pores. Both medullary shells are here also spherical.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without tubes) 0.14, greatest breadth (including the protuberances) 0.13; pores 0.006 to 0.009, bars 0.004; length of the polar tubes 0.07, basal thickness 0.03.

Family XVI. Panartida, Haeckel (Pl. 40, figs. 1-9).

Definition.—Prunoidea with a four-jointed cortical shell, the external shell being divided by three parallel transverse constrictions into four chambers, in the centre enclosing two internal concentric shells (medullary shells). Central capsule cylindrical, commonly four-jointed (with three transverse annular constrictions).

The family Panartida (Pl. 40, figs. 1-9) is characterised by its four-jointed cortical shell, constantly composed of four chambers, lying one behind another in the elongated main axis. They are separated by three ring-like constrictions lying in three parallel transverse planes; the middle of these is the equatorial plane. In the centre of this latter lies constantly a double medullary shell.

The Panartida must be derived from the Cyphinida by further increase in the longitudinal or main axis, and by repetition of the equatorial constriction in two transverse planes parallel to it and at an equal distance from it.

The Medullary Shell is always double in this family, composed of two small concentric shells lying in the middle of the central capsule. They are either spherical or lenticular, compressed towards both poles of the main axis; sometimes the inner is spherical, the outer lenticular. From the equatorial circumference of the latter starts a number of radial beams, which perforate the central capsule, and are inserted into the equatorial constriction of the cortical shell. Commonly all radial beams lie in the equatorial plane, sometimes also a part of them on both sides of it.

The Cortical Shell is constantly composed of four completely latticed chambers, which are only separated by the three annular constrictions. In many species all four chambers have the same form and size (Pl. 40, fig. 3), but in the greater number of species both proximal (or central) chambers are different in size, shape, or structure from both distal (or polar) chambers. The cortical shell is either simple or double, composed of two concentric four-jointed shells; rarely it is triple or multiple, composed of three or more shells fitting one inside the other. Very often the outer cortical shell is incomplete, and only developed around the two proximal chambers of the complete inner cortical shell, both distal chambers of the latter remaining simple.

On both poles of the main axis often are developed solid spines (Panicium, Pl. 40, fig. 4) or hollow fenestrated tubes (Panarium, Pl. 40, fig. 9), as in the foregoing families. Besides this, the surface of the cortical shell may be armed with spines.

The Central Capsule of the Panartida is always cylindrical, on both poles hemispherical; commonly it is more or less distinctly four-jointed, with three ring-like constrictions corresponding to those of the enclosing cortical shell. From the inner surface of the latter it is separated by a thinner or thicker jelly-mantle.

Synopsis of the Genera of Panartida.

Genus 163. Panartus,^[202] n. gen.

Definition.—Panartida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar spines or tubes on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Panartus represents the common ancestral form of all Panartida, as all other genera of this subfamily must be derived from it and are only further developmental stages, from an ontogenetic as well as from a phylogenetic point of view. The cortical shell of Panartus is constantly composed of four fenestrated chambers jointed to one another in the main axis; both proximal chambers are separated from one another by the equatorial ring-like constriction, in the centre of which lies the double medullary shell; both distal chambers are separated from the former by two other annular constrictions (in planes parallel to the equatorial plane). All four chambers may exhibit the same (kidney-shaped) form and structure (in the subgenera Panartella and Panartoma); or the proximal chamber may differ more or less in shape and size from the distal (in the subgenera Panartissa and Panartura). The outer surface of the cortical shell is sometimes smooth (as in Panartella and Panartissa), at other times spiny or thorny (as in Panartoma and Panartura). The double medullary shell is sometimes spherical, or commonly compressed at both poles and spheroidal or lenticular.

Subgenus 1. Panartella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell smooth, without spines or thorns. All its four chambers exhibit nearly the same form and structure.

All four chambers of the cortical shell of the same form, size, and structure, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores rather regular, hexagonal, all nearly of the same size and form, four times as broad as the thin bars; five to six pores on the half meridian, nine to ten on the half equator of each chamber. Surface of the cortical shell smooth, its main axis three times as long as its equatorial axis (in the median constriction). Both concentric medullary shells spherical; the equatorial axis of the outer half as long as that of the cortical shell. (All four chambers of this species have the same appearance as the two proximal chambers of Panartus diploconus, Pl. 40, fig. 1.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.21, equatorial axis 0.07; breadth of every chamber 0.09; meshes 0.013, bars 0.03.

Habitat.—Central area of the Pacific, Stations 270 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

All four chambers of the cortical shell of the same form, size, and structure, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores regular, circular, with hexagonal frame, twice as broad as the bars; six to seven pores on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. Surface of the cortical shell smooth; its main axis three times as long as the equatorial axis. Both concentric medullary shells spheroidal, somewhat compressed at both poles; the equatorial axis {378}of the outer almost equals half that of the cortical shell. (All four chambers of this species exhibit the structure of the two proximal chambers of Peripanartus amphiconus, Pl. 40, fig. 5.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.24, equatorial axis 0.08; breadth of every chamber 0.01; meshes 0.01, bars 0.005.

All four chambers of the cortical shell of the same form, size, and structure, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores rather regular, circular, without hexagonal frame, about as broad as the bars; five to six pores on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. Surface of the cortical shell smooth, its main axis three times as long as the equatorial axis. Both concentric medullary shells spheroidal, compressed; the outer half as broad as the constriction. (This species is very much like Ommatocampe increscens, Stöhr, 1880, loc. cit., Taf. ii. fig. 2, and may be considered as the ancestral form of it.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.2, equatorial axis 0.065; breadth of every chamber 0.08; meshes and bars 0.005.

All four chambers of the cortical shell of the same form, size, and structure, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores irregular, polygonal (mostly pentagonal or hexagonal), four to eight times as broad as the thin bars; four to seven on the half meridian, eight to fifteen on the half equator of each chamber. Surface of the cortical shell smooth, its main axis three times as long as its equatorial axis. Both concentric medullary shells compressed, the outer, half as broad as the constriction.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.26, equatorial axis 0.09; breadth of every chamber 0.12; meshes 0.003 to 0.02, bars 0.001 to 0.003.

All four chambers of the cortical shell of the same form, size, and structure, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; a circle of larger pores at the base of both distal chambers; five to six pores on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. Surface of the cortical shell smooth; its main axis two and a half times as long as the equatorial axis. Both medullary shells spheroidal, compressed, the outer one-third as broad as the constriction. (In the specimen figured spines begin to arise from both distal chambers; this forms a transition to Panartus quadrijugus.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.18, equatorial axis 0.07; breadth of every chamber 0.09; meshes 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.002 to 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Panartissa.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell smooth, without spines or thorns. Both its proximal chambers differ in form and structure from the two distal chambers.

Both proximal chambers nearly ellipsoidal, one and a half times as broad as long, with regular hexagonal pores, four times as broad as the bars; five to six pores on the half meridian, nine to ten on the half equator of each chamber. Both distal chambers conical, with a circle of ten to twelve large square pores at the base; the other pores very small and numerous, roundish, sixteen to twenty in the height of each cone, and the same number on the half periphery of its base. Both concentric medullary shells compressed, the outer, half as broad as the constriction of the cortical shell, the surface of which is quite smooth.

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell (or main axis) 0.34; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.09; pores of the proximal chambers 0.013, bars 0.003; pores and bars of the distal chambers 0.003; large basal square pores 0.02.

Both proximal chambers nearly kidney-shaped, one and a half times as broad as long, with regular, circular pores, with hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; six to seven pores on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. Both distal chambers conical, with a circle of ten to twelve very large pores at the base; the other pores very small, roundish, ten to fifteen in the height of each cone, twenty to thirty on the half basal periphery. Both concentric medullary shells compressed, the outer one-third as broad as the constriction of the cortical shell, whose surface is smooth. (This species resembles Peripanartus amphiconus, Pl. 40, fig. 5, but is without the surface spines and the outer envelope.)

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell 0.28; greatest breadth of the proximal chambers 0.1, of the distal chambers 0.14; pores of the former 0.008, of the latter 0.004; bars of both 0.003 to 0.005.

Both proximal chambers nearly ellipsoidal, one and a half times as long as broad, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten pores on the half meridian, twelve to fifteen on the half equator of each chamber. Both distal chambers hemiellipsoidal or egg-shaped, somewhat higher and narrower than the proximal chambers, with a circle of larger square pores at their base; the other pores roundish and very irregular. Both medullary shells spheroidal, one-third as broad as the constriction of the cortical shell, whose surface is quite smooth. (This {380}species is similar to Peripanartus atractus, Pl. 40, fig. 7, but is without the superficial spines and the equatorial girdle-like envelope of the latter.)

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell 0.25 to 0.3; greatest breadth (in the equator of the proximal chambers) 0.08 to 0.1; pores of the proximal chambers 0.008 to 0.012, pores of the distal chambers half their size, bars 0.002 to 0.006.

Ommatocampe profundissima, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 297, Taf. viii. fig. 6.

Both proximal chambers nearly ellipsoidal, with irregular, polygonal pores, six to eight times as broad as the bars; four to five pores on the half meridian, eight to nine on the half equator of each chamber. Both distal chambers hemispherical, with a very delicate irregular network. Medullary shells spherical; surface of the shell smooth.

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell 0.15; greatest breadth in the equator of the proximal chambers 0.08; pores of the proximal chambers 0.015, bars 0.002.

Habitat.—Philippine Sea, depth 3300 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 213, depth 2050 fathoms.

Subgenus 3. Panartoma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell thorny, covered with scattered spines. All its four chambers exhibit the same form and structure.

All four chambers of the cortical shell of the same form, size, and structure, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores rather regular, circular, with hexagonal frames, twice to three times as broad as the bars; six to seven pores on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator of each chamber. Surface spiny; from the corners of the hexagonal frames (between every three pores) arise short radial spines. Both medullary shells spherical, the outer one-third as broad as the constriction of the cortical shell. (All the four chambers of this species have the same form as the two proximal chambers of Peripanartus amphiconus, Pl. 40, fig. 5.)

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.24, equatorial axis 0.08; meshes 0.01, bars 0.003 to 0.005; length of the spines 0.01 to 0.02.

All four chambers of the cortical shell of the same form and size, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; a circle of larger pores at the base of both distal chambers; six to eight pores on the half meridian, twelve to {381}fourteen on the half equator of each chamber. Surface spiny, everywhere covered with small irregular thorns. (This species differs from the smooth Panartus tetrathalamus, Pl. 40, fig. 3, almost entirely by the thorny surface.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.2, equatorial axis 0.08; breadth of every chamber 0.1; meshes 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.003, spines 0.01 to 0.02.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; on the surface of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.

All four chambers of the cortical shell nearly of the same size and form, kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long. Pores irregular, polygonal (mostly pentagonal or hexagonal), six to eight times as broad as the thin bars; five to seven on the half meridian, twelve to sixteen on the half equator of each chamber. Surface of the cortical shell spiny, covered with numerous irregularly scattered, often oblique, bristle-like thorns.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.27, equatorial axis 0.1; breadth of each chamber 0.13; meshes 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.001 to 0.005.

Subgenus 4. Panartura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell thorny, covered with scattered spines. Both its proximal chambers differ in form or structure from the two distal chambers.

Both proximal chambers nearly ellipsoidal, with regular, circular pores enclosed by hexagonal frames. Both distal chambers conical, with a circle of ten to twelve large square pores at the base; the other pores small, roundish. The cortical shell of this species is quite the same as that of Panartus amphiconus (Pl. 40, fig. 5), but differs in the absence of the external envelope (or the second cortical shell), and is covered with short, conical spines on the whole surface.

Dimensions.—Total length of the cortical shell 0.25, greatest breadth (on the base of the distal chambers) 0.12; meshes of the proximal chambers 0.008, of the distal chambers 0.004; bars 0.002 to 0.04, spines 0.01 to 0.02.

Ommatocampe setosa, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 297, Taf. viii. fig. 7.

Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, broader than the two hemispherical distal chambers. Meshes of the cortical shell irregular, polygonal, or subregular hexagonal; at the base of each {382}distal chamber a circle of large square meshes. The breadth of the pores is eight to twelve times that of the bars between them. The whole surface is covered with small bristle-like spines.

Dimensions.—Total length of the cortical shell 0.14, greatest breadth (in the equator of each proximal chamber) 0.07; meshes 0.008 to 0.015, bars 0.002, spines 0.01.

Habitat.—Pacific (Philippine and Californian Sea) 3300 and 2300 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 200, depth 250 fathoms; Station 253, depth 3125 fathoms.

Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; their surface everywhere covered with short conical thorns. From both polar circles arise ten to twelve radial rods, which bear a fenestrated cap, and form thus either the beginning of a second, external, cortical shell, or (if remaining thus) two imperfect distal chambers. The spherical segment, which forms their surface, is concentric with the proximal chambers, is perforated by the same irregular, roundish pores, and covered with numerous bristle-like spines.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cortical shell 0.17, equatorial axis (in the constriction) 0.06; distance between the proximal and distal chambers 0.03; pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.003 to 0.005.

Genus 164. Peripanartus,^[203] n. gen.

Definition.—Panartida with double cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar spines or tubes on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Peripanartus differs from Panartus only in the development of an outer reticulated envelop, which mantle-like surrounds the shell and represents a second or external cortical shell. This mantle or veil envelops either the whole internal cortical shell or only both proximal chambers. Peripanartus exhibits the same relation to Panartus as in the foregoing ancestral family Cypassis bears to Cyphonium.

Subgenus 1. Peripanartula, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the outer cortical shell smooth, without spines or thorns.

Internal cortical shell with four kidney-shaped chambers of equal size and similar form, identical with the cortical shell of Panartus tetrathalamus and Panartus quadrijugus (Pl. 40, fig. 3), with irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. It differs from these two species {383}only by the external cortical shell enveloping the whole internal one, in the same manner as in Peripanartus cylindrus (Pl. 40, fig. 6). The two shells are connected by numerous radial rods. The surface of the outer cortical shell is quite smooth, its irregular, roundish pores about half as large as those of the inner cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the external cortical shell 0.27, of the internal 0.2; greatest breadth of the former (in the equator of each chamber) 0.13, of the latter 0.09; pores of the external cortical shell 0.002 to 0.004, of the internal 0.004 to 0.008; bars of the former 0.002, of the latter 0.003.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 271, 272, depth 2425 to 2600 fathoms.

Internal cortical shell with four unequal chambers, both proximal kidney-shaped (with subregular polygonal pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars), both distal nearly hemispherical, with subregular, roundish pores of half that size. External cortical shell envelops only the proximal chambers, and appears as the direct continuation of the internal shell of the distal chambers, with the same small roundish pores. The outer surface is quite smooth. This species has nearly the same structure as Peripanicium amphicorona (Pl. 40, fig. 8), but differs from it by the absence of the polar spine-circles, and by the perfect smoothness of the surface.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the shell 0.25, greatest breadth (in the equator of the proximal chambers) 0.15; equatorial stricture of the external shell 0.10, of the internal 0.07; pores of the internal shell of the proximal chambers 0.013, of the external 0.006; bars 0.003.

Inner cortical shell with four very unequal chambers; both proximal chambers kidney-shaped (with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars); both distal chambers conical, with a circle of large square pores at the base, the other pores very small, roundish. Outer cortical shell very thin, quite smooth, with irregular, roundish pores, envelops in younger specimens only the distal chambers. But the radial spines on the surface of the internal cortical shell of the proximal chambers indicate that these will also be afterwards enclosed by the growing of the external shell. This species exhibits the progressive (ontogenetic as well as phylogenetic) development of Panartus amphiconus.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the outer cortical shell 0.3, its greatest breadth (at the prominent distal ends of the radial rods between the large square pores) 0.15; pores 0.003 to 0.001, bars 0.005; main axis of the inner cortical shell 0.26, its greatest breadth 0.13; pores of its distal chambers 0.003, of its proximal chambers 0.01; large square pores 0.03; bars 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Peripanartium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the outer cortical shell covered with spines or thorns.

Inner cortical shell with four very unequal chambers; both proximal chambers spheroidal (with subregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars), both distal chambers nearly conical, with a circle of eight to ten very large square pores at the base; the other pores very small, roundish. Outer cortical shell envelops only the proximal chambers and the basal half of the distal chambers, appearing as the direct continuation of the microporous covering of their apical half. The whole external cortical shell is inflated in the equatorial zone, and hence assumes an irregular, spindle-like appearance. Its whole surface is rough with innumerable very short thorns.

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.28, equatorial axis 0.17; pores of the external cortical shell 0.002 to 0.004, bars 0.002; main axis of the proximal chambers of the internal cortical shell 0.07, equatorial axis 0.09; pores 0.007, bars 0.004.

Internal cortical shell with four unequal chambers; both proximal chambers kidney-shaped (with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores of the same breadth as the bars), both distal chambers nearly hemispherical, with a circle of eight to ten very large square pores at their base; the other pores very small, roundish. External cortical shell envelops the whole internal like a perfect hollow cylinder, which is closed at both poles by a hemispherical cap. The whole surface of this cylindrical mantle is perforated by innumerable very small roundish pores, and covered with small bristle-like spines.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the cylinder 0.3, equatorial axis 0.12; pores and bars 0.006; spines of its surface 0.012 to 0.15; main axis of the internal cortical shell 0.2; equatorial axis (in the constriction) 0.06; pores and bars of its proximal chambers 0.007, of its distal chambers 0.003; large square pores at their base 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Genus 165. Panicium,^[204] n. gen.

Definition.—Panartida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two opposite apical spines on both poles of the main axis, or with a group of polar spines.

The genus Panicium comprises those forms of Panartus which develop a peculiar armature on both poles of the cortical shell. This may be only a single strong spine {385}on each pole, lying in the main axis (subgenus Panicidium); or a bunch or a circle of polar spines diverging radially (subgenus Panartidium); in the latter case the polar spines can either form a bunch on the pole itself, or a crown of thorns around it.

Subgenus 1. Panicidium, Haeckel.

All four chambers of the cortical shell nearly of the same size and form, kidney-shaped, with subregular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; five to six pores on the half meridian, ten to eleven on the half equator of each chamber. Surface covered with small spines. On both poles of the main axis is a very strong, conical, apical spine, half as long as the main axis, on the base one-fourth as broad as the equatorial axis.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without polar spines) 0.22, equatorial axis 0.06; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; length of the polar spines 0.12, basal thickness 0.015.

Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, both distal chambers nearly hemispherical, somewhat smaller. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; four to six on the half meridian, eight to ten on the half equator of each chamber; a circle of larger square pores on the base of each distal chamber. Surface thorny. On both poles of the main axis one strong, pyramidal, apical spine, one-third as long as the main axis, on the base one-fourth as broad as the equatorial constriction. (Similar to Panarium tubularium, Pl. 40, fig. 9, but without tubes.)

Dimensions.—Main axis (without polar spines) 0.2, equatorial axis 0.05; pores 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the polar spines 0.07, basal thickness 0.012.

Subgenus 2. Panartidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—On both poles of the main axis a bunch or a circle of aggregated spines.

Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, both distal chambers nearly hemispherical, somewhat smaller. Pores irregular, polygonal, twice to five times as broad as the bars; six to eight on the half meridian, twelve to fourteen on the half equator of each chamber. Surface spiny, covered with thin, {386}bristle-like spines. On both poles of the main axis a bunch of six to eight aggregated larger conical spines, about as high as a single chamber.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without polar spines) 0.2, equatorial axis 0.06; pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the polar spines 0.05, basal thickness 0.005.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, covered with short stout spines. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half meridian, eleven to thirteen on the half equator of each chamber. Both distal chambers cap-like, separated from the former by a circle of ten to twelve very large square pores; the other pores very small, roundish. The circumpolar area is smooth, surrounded by a circle of ten to twelve very stout, conical, radial spines, which arise from the distal ends of the bars separating the large square meshes.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without spines) 0.22, equatorial axis 0.08; greatest breadth in the equator of the chambers 0.1; pores of the proximal chambers 0.007 to 0.015, bars 0.004; square pores of the distal chambers 0.02 to 0.03, small pores 0.005, bars 0.004; length of the radial spines of the polar circles 0.07, basal thickness 0.007.

Genus 166. Peripanicium,^[205] n. gen.

Definition.—Panartida with double cortical shell and double medullary shell, on both poles of the main axis with two opposite apical spines, or with a bunch or circle of polar spines.

The genus Peripanicium differs from Panicium only in the development of an outer reticulated envelope, which mantle-like surrounds the shell, and represents a second or external cortical shell. As in Panicium, its ancestral form, so also in Peripanicium, there can be distinguished two subgenera:—Peripanicea, where only a single large spine arises from each pole (lying in the main axis), and Peripanicula, where a variable number of spines is to be found, either diverging bunch-like from the pole itself, or surrounding it as a crown-like polar circle.

Subgenus 1. Peripanicea, Haeckel.

Internal cortical shell with four unequal chambers, with thorny surface. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped (with subregular hexagonal pores, three times as broad as the bars). {387}Both distal chambers nearly hemispherical (with a circle of ten to twelve very large square pores at their base, the other pores very small). From both poles arises a single, strong, conical spine, half as long as the main axis. The internal cortical shell is very much like that of Panarium tubularium (Pl. 40, fig. 9), but differs by the solid polar spines (instead of the hollow tubules) and by the formation of an external, cylindrical, very thin, cortical shell, which envelops the whole internal, and is connected with it by numerous beams. The surface of the external shell is quite smooth, and perforated by innumerable very small roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Main axis of the external cortical shell 0.25, of the internal 0.19; transverse axis of the former 0.13, of the latter 0.08; pores of the proximal chambers of the internal shell 0.01, bars 0.003; pores of external cortical shell 0.002, bars 0.001; length of both polar spines 0.12, basal thickness of them 0.02.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, near Tristan da Cunha, Station 333, depth 2025 fathoms.

Subgenus 2. Peripanicula, Haeckel.

Definition.—On both poles of the main axis a bunch or a circle of aggregated polar spines.

Peripanartus amphicorona, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xl. fig. 8).

Internal cortical shell with four very unequal chambers. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with subregular, polygonal pores, three times as broad as the bars. Both distal chambers double cone-shaped; the proximal cone of these formed by a circle of ten to twelve radial beams, which separate the same number of large square meshes; the distal cone with five to six circles of very small roundish, irregular pores. The continuation of the thin porous lamella of this distal cone forms the external cortical shell, whose surface is a little rough with innumerable very small thorns. On both poles is a large circular opening (nearly as broad as the equatorial constriction of the inner shell), surrounded by a delicate crown of thorns. The spines of this crown equal the diameter of the polar opening; they are very thin and bristle-like, connected by a few bridges and diverge outwards.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without the crowns of polar thorns) 0.26, greatest breadth (in the equator of the proximal chambers) 0.15; equatorial constriction of the external shell 0.12, of the internal 0.07; pores of the proximal chambers of the internal cortical shell 0.01, of the external 0.005, bars 0.003; diameter of the circular polar opening 0.05; length of the polar spines 0.05.

Internal cortical shell with four unequal chambers. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Both distal chambers cap-like, with a basal circle of ten to twelve large square meshes, the other pores very small. External {388}cortical shell very thin, with smooth surface, and very small, irregular, roundish pores; it envelops the whole internal shell at a constant distance, which equals the breadth of the square meshes. From the distal ends of the radial beams between the square meshes arise on every polar circle ten to twelve strong spines, as direct prolongations of those beams. These form two regular, polar crowns of thorns. The inner part of the thorns (between both shells) has only one-third to one-fourth the length of the outer free part. (This species represents a further development of Panicium coronatum, Pl. 40, fig. 4, by secondary formation of an external mantle, like that of Peripanartus atractus, Pl. 40, fig. 7.)

Dimensions.—Main axis 0.27, greatest breadth 0.15; pores of the internal proximal chambers 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.004; square meshes of the distal chambers 0.03; pores of the outer cortical shell 0.003; length of the spines of the polar circles 0.1 to 0.15.

Genus 167. Panarium,^[206] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 463.

Definition.—Panartida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated tubes, opposite on the poles of the main axis.

The genus Panarium differs from Panartus by two hollow latticed tubes, which start from both poles of the main axis and lie in it. It repeats therefore in this family the same peculiar and remarkable formation, which we find in Pipettella among the Ellipsida, in Pipetta among the Druppulida, in Cannartidium among the Cyphinida, in Cannartus among the Artiscida, &c.

Subgenus 1. Panarelium, Haeckel.

Surface of the cortical shell smooth. All the four chambers nearly of the same size and form, kidney-shaped, about twice as broad as long. Pores of these subregular, circular, with hexagonal frames, about as broad as the bars; nine to ten on the half meridian, twelve to fourteen on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubuli nearly cylindrical, longer than half the main axis of the cortical shell, about one-fourth as broad as the equatorial constriction. Pores of the tubuli of the same shape as those of the chambers, but only half as large. (This species is like Pipetta tuba, Pl. 39, fig. 7, but distinguished by three parallel transverse constrictions.)

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell (without tubuli) 0.26; breadth of each chamber 0.12; pores 0.01, bars 0.01; length of the tubuli 0.15, breadth of them 0.03.

Surface of the cortical shell smooth. Both proximal chambers nearly kidney-shaped; both distal chambers somewhat smaller, hemispherical. Pores of all four chambers subregular, circular, without hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; six to seven pores on the half meridian, ten to eleven on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubuli slender, conical, nearly half as long as the main axis of the shell, one-third as broad at the base as the equatorial constriction. Pores of the tubuli of the same shape as those of the chambers, but only half as large. (This species resembles somewhat Cannartiscus amphiconiscus, Pl. 39, fig. 19, but with double the number of chambers.)

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell (without tubuli) 0.25, greatest breadth 0.1; pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the polar tubuli 0.11, basal breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Panaromium, Haeckel.

Surface of the cortical shell thorny, everywhere covered with small bristle-like spines. All four chambers nearly of the same size and form, kidney-shaped. Their pores subregular, circular, three to four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half meridian, ten to eleven on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubuli conical, nearly half as long as the main axis, half as broad at the base as the equatorial constriction. Pores of the tubuli like those of the chambers, but only half as broad.

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell (without tubuli) 0.16; breadth of each chamber 0.07; pores 0.006 to 0.008, bars 0.002; length of the polar tubuli 0.07, basal breadth 0.03.

Surface of the shell thorny, with scattered small spines. Both proximal chambers nearly kidney-shaped; both distal hemispherical, somewhat smaller. Pores of all chambers irregular, roundish, little broader than the bars; four to five on the half meridian, six to eight on the half equator of each chamber. Polar tubuli cylindrical, longer than the half main axis, only one-fourth as broad the equatorial constriction. Pores of the tubuli only one-third to one-fourth as broad as those of the chambers.

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell (without tubuli) 0.22, greatest breadth (in the equator of the proximal chambers) 0.09; pores and bars 0.008 to 0.012; length of the polar tubuli 0.14, breadth of them 0.02.

Surface of the cortical shell thorny, covered with small spines. Both proximal chambers nearly kidney-shaped, with irregular, polygonal pores, three to four times as broad as the bars; five to six pores on the half meridian, nine to ten on the half equator of each chamber. Both distal chambers nearly hemispherical, with a circle of ten to twelve large square pores at their base; the other pores much smaller, irregular, roundish. Polar tubuli prismatic, with prominent edges, nearly half as long as the main axis, only one-fourth as broad as the equatorial constriction. Pores of the tubuli very small, in longitudinal series between the edges.

Dimensions.—Total length of the shell (without tubuli) 0.18 to 0.2, greatest breadth (in the equator of the proximal chambers) 0.07 to 0.09; pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.002 to 0.004; length of the polar tubuli 0.06 to 0.09, breadth of them 0.015 to 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 272, depth 2425 to 2925 fathoms.

Genus 168. Peripanarium,^[207] n. gen.

Definition.—Panartida with double cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated tubes, opposite on the poles of the main axis.

The genus Peripanarium differs from Panarium only in the development of an outer reticulated envelop, which mantle-like surrounds the shell and represents a second or external cortical shell. It bears therefore to Panarium the same relation as Peripanartus to Panartus, &c.

Internal cortical shell with four kidney-shaped chambers of nearly the same form and size; their pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars. External cortical shell cylindrical, hemispherical at both poles, with irregular, very small, roundish pores, only one-third to one-half as large as those of the internal. From both poles of the internal cortical shell arises a hollow conical fenestrated tube, which perforates the external. The outer free part of this slender cone equals in length the inner part or the distance between the two cortical shells, which is about equal to the length of one chamber. External surface covered with small thorns. (This species has the same appearance as Desmartus larvalis, Pl. 40, fig. 12, but has only four chambers instead of six.)

Dimensions.—Main axis (without cones) 0.23, greatest breadth 0.11; pores of the inner cortical shell 0.004 to 0.009, of the outer 0.002 to 0.003; bars of the former 0.002, of the latter 0.001; total length of the polar cones 0.05, basal thickness of them 0.03.

Internal cortical shell with four unequal chambers, the two proximal kidney-shaped, the two distal conical, and somewhat smaller; pores irregular, polygonal-roundish, twice to five times as broad as the bars. External cortical shell nearly spindle-shaped, in the equatorial zone inflated, conical, tapering towards both poles, its pores very small, roundish, its surface covered with small thorns. The shell of this species resembles very much Peripanartus atractus (Pl. 40, fig. 7), but differs by the hollow cylindrical polar tubes, which arise from both poles of the inner cortical shell and attain more than half the length of the main axis. They are open at their ends (broken away), about as broad as the outer medullary shell, and perforated by irregular, roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Main axis (without polar tubes) 0.28, greatest breadth (in the equator) 0.16; pores of the inner cortical shell 0.004 to 0.01, of the outer 0.002 to 0.005; bars of the former 0.004, of the latter 0.002; total length of the polar tubes 0.16, breadth of them 0.03.

Family XVII. Zygartida, Haeckel (Pl. 40, figs. 10-13).

Definition.—Prunoidea with annulated cortical shell, the external shell being divided by five or more parallel transverse constrictions into six or more chambers, enclosing in the centre two internal concentric shells (medullary shells). Central capsule cylindrical, commonly annulated (corresponding to the transverse annular constrictions of the cortical shell).

The family Zygartida, the seventh and last of the Prunoidea, comprises, in the sense here restricted, all those Prunoidea in which the cortical shell is annulated and composed of six to twenty or more (at least six) cameræ, lying one behind another in the elongated main axis, and separated by five or more annular constrictions. When I constituted this family in 1881 (loc. cit.), I had given to it a much wider extent, embracing all those Prunoidea which exhibit annular constrictions of the cortical shell; as the number of these, in consequence of further researches, is much increased, it seems now more convenient to restrict the family to the extent here given.

No doubt the Zygartida must be derived from the Panartida by progressive growth of the cortical shell in the main axis and accompanying increase of the number of its chambers. Whilst this number in the Panartida is constantly restricted to four, in the Zygartida it amounts to ten, twenty, or more, and is in the lowest case six (Pl. 40, fig. 10). The maximum number is variable in the different species, but of course also different in the various degrees of individual development. Each Zygartid is at the beginning of its growth a Cyphinid, later a Panartid. The number of the annular constrictions separating the chambers and lying in parallel transverse planes is at least {392}five, but may amount to nineteen, to twenty-one or more; they lie constantly in pairs on both sides of the equatorial constriction (Pl. 40, figs. 12, 13).

The cortical shell may either remain simple (Ommatocampe, Pl. 40, fig. 10), or become double (Desmocampe, Pl. 40, fig. 12), or sometimes triple (Zygocampe, (Pl. 40, fig. 13). In the latter cases the outer (secondary and tertiary) cortical shells are commonly incomplete, and only developed around the proximal chambers of the complete first (primary) cortical shell, its distal chambers remaining simple.

The Medullary Shell is constantly double, as in the Panartida; its form is either spherical or lenticular, compressed in the direction of the main axis. It is always connected with the equatorial constriction of the cortical shell by a number of radial beams, lying either in the equatorial plane or on each side of it (Pl. 40, figs. 10-13).

The Central Capsule of the Zygartida is constantly cylindrical; its increasing growth on both poles of the axis corresponds to that of the including cortical shell. Commonly (but not always) its cylindrical surface is annulated, with five or more transverse strictures, corresponding to those of the cortical shell. From the inner surface of the latter it is separated by a jelly-mantle, the calymma.

Synopsis of the Genera of Zygartida.

Genus 169. Ommatocampe,^[208] Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 832.

Definition.—Zygartida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar tubes.

The genus Ommatocampe was founded by Ehrenberg in 1860 for one of his "Haliommatina," with the following diagnosis:—"Shell rod-like, long, articulate, with nucleus, without spines, with four or more joints." The species figured by him, Ommatocampe {393}polyarthra, exhibits five pairs of chambers on both sides of the meridian plane of the cortical shell, the centre of which includes a double medullary shell. It represents the most simple form of all Zygartida, and may be derived phylogenetically from Cyphonium simply by multiplication of the chambers of the cortical shell, growing on both poles of the main axis.

Subgenus 1. Ommatocampium.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell smooth or rough, without thorns or spines, also without polar spines.

Ommatocampe polyarthra, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 279, Taf. vi. fig. 9.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, composed of six to ten chambers of the same size and form. Every chamber kidney-shaped, about twice as broad as long, with three transverse rows of circular, subregular pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells spherical.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.15; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.04; pores 0.005 to 0.007, bars 0.002 to 0.003.

Habitat.—Californian Sea, depth 2600 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados, Haeckel.

Ommatocampe increscens, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 90, Taf. ii. fig. 2, a, b.

Cortical shell with rough surface, composed of six to ten chambers of nearly the same size and form; the breadth of the chambers a little increasing towards both poles. Every chamber kidney-shaped, the proximal chambers twice as broad as long, with four or five transverse rows of pores; the distal chambers three to four times as broad as long, with two or three transverse rows of pores. Form of the pores irregular, roundish, bars between them in the distal part smaller, in the proximal part larger than the pores. Both medullary shells compressed lenticular.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.22; greatest breadth of the chambers 0.09 to 0.1; pores and bars 0.003 to 0.006.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, composed of six to twelve chambers of nearly the same size and form. Each chamber kidney-shaped, twice as broad as long, with four to five transverse rows of {394}irregular, roundish pores, once to five times as broad as the bars. On the base of each distal chamber (beginning in the second or third pair) a circle of twelve to sixteen larger square pores. Both medullary shells compressed lenticular. (Resembles the inner cortical shell of Desmartus larvalis, Pl. 40, fig. 12, but is without the polar tubes and the outer envelope of this species.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.23; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.07; pores 0.002 to 0.01, bars 0.002.

Subgenus 2. Ommatocampula, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell thorny or spiny, but without peculiar polar spines and without regular coronals of spines.

Cortical shell with spiny surface, composed of six to twelve chambers of nearly the same size and form, the distal chambers a little smaller. The form and structure of the cortical shell is nearly the same as in the foregoing species, only the pores are somewhat larger, and the whole surface is covered with bristle-like radial spines, about half as long as the breadth of one chamber. Both medullary shells compressed and lenticular.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.24; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.08; pores 0.005 to 0.012, bars 0.002.

Cortical shell with spiny surface, composed of six (or more) chambers of different size and structure. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with subregular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars. All following chambers cap-like, with much smaller, irregular, roundish pores, at the base of every chamber a circle of ten to twelve large square pores. Spines of the surface short, irregularly scattered. Both medullary shells spherical. (All the observed specimens possessed only six chambers.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.25; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.08; pores of both proximal chambers 0.01, bars 0.005; basal pores of the other chambers 0.02; pores of their distal caps 0.003 to 0.006, bars 0.003.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 271 to 274, depth 2350 to 2750 fathoms.

Subgenus 3. Ommatocorona, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the cortical shell spiny, on every chamber a regular circle or coronal of radial spines.

Cortical shell with spiny surface, composed of six (or more) kidney-shaped chambers of different size and form. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with subregular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, about as broad as the bars. All the following chambers hemispherical, with irregular, roundish pores; at the base of every chamber a circle of ten to twelve larger square pores. The beams between these latter are prolonged into free radial spines, twice as thick as the bars. Therefore every chamber is surrounded by a circle of radial spines, like those of Panicium coronatum (Pl. 40, fig. 4). Both medullary shells lenticular.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.3, greatest breadth 0.08, pores and bars of both proximal chambers 0.01; pores of the other chambers 0.002 to 0.008; square pores 0.02, bars 0.005; length of the coronal spines 0.03, thickness 0.01.

Subgenus 4. Ommatacantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the shell smooth or spiny, on the poles of the main axis occur two strong opposite polar spines.

Cortical shell composed of six kidney-shaped chambers of nearly the same size and structure; every chamber twice as broad as long, with four to five transverse rows of irregular, roundish pores, once to four times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells lenticular. Surface of the cortical shell covered with bristle-like spines. On both poles of the main axis one larger, strong, conical spine, about half as long as this axis, and on the base as broad as the inner medullary shell. (Resembles on the whole Desmartus larvalis, Pl. 40, fig. 12, but without external mantle, and with two solid polar spines instead of the polar tubes.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.24; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.08; pores 0.002 to 0.08, bars 0.002; length of the polar spines 0.12, basal thickness 0.02.

Genus 170. Ommatartus,^[209] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 463.

Definition.—Zygartida with simple cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated tubes, opposite on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Ommatartus differs from Ommatocampe by the development of two hollow fenestrated tubes on both poles of the main axis, and bears therefore the same relation to it as Cannartidium to Cyphonium. The former two genera differ from the two latter by the augmentation of the chambers of the cortical shell.

Cortical shell with spiny surface, composed of six chambers of equal size and kidney-shaped; every chamber with four to five transverse rows of irregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Both medullary shells lenticular. Polar tubes conical, about as long as one chamber, with smaller pores. Both medullary shells spheroidal, more or less compressed. (Resembles Desmartus larvalis, Pl. 40, fig. 12, but is without the external shell.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.24; greatest breadth of each chamber 0.07; pores 0.008 to 0.012, bars 0.004; length of the polar tubes 0.04 to 0.05, basal thickness 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Cortical shell with spiny surface, composed of six or eight chambers of different size and form. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, each with five to six transverse rows of irregular, polygonal pores, three to four times as broad as the bars. The other (four to six) chambers somewhat smaller, more hemispherical, with smaller, irregular pores, but on the base of each a circle of ten to twelve larger square pores. Polar tubuli prismatic, about half as long as the main axis, with prominent edges and longitudinal rows of smaller pores between them. Both medullary shells lenticular. (Resembles closely Panarium tubularium, Pl. 40, fig. 9, but with six to eight chambers instead of four, and with longer tubuli.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered cortical shell 0.26; greatest breadth of the proximal chambers 0.09, of the distal chambers 0.07; pores of the former 0.01, of the latter 0.004; large square pores 0.013, bars 0.003; length of the polar tubes 0.1 to 0.12, thickness 0.02.

Cortical shell with spiny surface, composed of six chambers of different size and form. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with four to five transverse rows of subregular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Both middle chambers cap-like, with a basal circle of ten to twelve larger square pores, and small roundish pores on the cap. Both distal chambers smaller, conical, with very small roundish pores. Polar tubuli conical, nearly half as long as the main axis, also with very small pores. Both medullary shells lenticular.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered shell 0.28, greatest breadth 0.08; pores of the proximal chambers 0.01, bars 0.005; pores of the distal chambers and the polar tubes 0.002 to 0.004, bars 0.002; length of the polar tubes 0.13, basal thickness 0.03.

Genus 171. Desmocampe,^[210] n. gen.

Definition.—Zygartida with double cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar tubes.

The genus Desmocampe differs from Ommatocampe in the duplication of the jointed cortical shell; the radial spines, which start from the surface of the inner cortical shell, are connected one with another by transverse communicating branches which form an outer envelop around it; but this reticulated mantle is commonly not quite perfect and more or less irregular.

Inner cortical shell with six to eight chambers of the same size and form. Every chamber kidney-shaped, with three to four transverse rows of circular, subregular pores, twice as broad as the bars. Outer cortical shell cylindrical, hemispherical at both poles, with smooth surface and irregular, roundish pores of very different size. Distance between the two cortical shells equals the diameter of the outer medullary shell, which, like the inner, is spherical. (Resembles Ommatocampe polyarthra, Ehrenberg, 1872, loc. cit., Taf. vi, fig. 9, but differs in the external mantle.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered inner cortical shell 0.16, of the outer 0.21; greatest breadth of each chamber of the former 0.05, of the latter 0.09; pores of the inner 0.006, bars 0.003; pores of the outer 0.002 to 0.008, bars 0.002.

Inner cortical shell with six to ten chambers of nearly the same size and form; the distal chambers somewhat smaller. Every chamber kidney-shaped, with four to five transverse rows of irregular roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Outer cortical shell cylindrical, hemispherical at both poles, with spiny surface; its pores like those of the inner, but the bars between them much thinner. Distance between the two cortical shells equals the diameter of the outer medullary shell. Both medullary shells lenticular. (Resembles Desmartus larvalis, Pl. 40, fig. 12, but is without polar tubes.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered inner cortical shell 0.25, of the outer 0.3; greatest breadth of the former 0.07, of the latter 0.11; pores 0.005 to 0.012; bars of the inner shell 0.004, of the outer 0.001.

Inner cortical shell with six to ten chambers of different size and structure. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with five to six transverse rows of subregular, circular, hexagonally-framed pores, twice as broad as the bars. All following chambers cap-like, with much smaller, irregular, roundish pores, on the base of each a circle of ten to twelve large square pores. Outer cortical shell cylindrical, on both poles hemispherical, with spiny surface and very delicate network of small polygonal pores. Both medullary shells spherical. (The inner cortical shell of this species resembles that of Ommatocampe nereis, Pl. 40, fig. 10; the outer that of Cyphocolpus virginis, Pl. 40, fig. 11.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered internal cortical shell 0.25, of the outer 0.3; greatest breadth of the former 0.08, of the latter 0.12; pores of the proximal chambers of the inner shell 0.01, bars 0.005; pores of the distal chambers 0.003 to 0.005, square pores 0.02, bars 0.003; pores of the external cortical shell 0.002 to 0.006, bars 0.001.

Inner cortical shell with six chambers of very different size and structure. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with seven to eight transverse rows of subregular, roundish pores, twice to three times as broad as the bars. Both middle chambers cap-like, on the base with a circle of eight to ten very large square pores, on the distal cap with small irregular, roundish pores. Both distal chambers conical, also with small irregular, roundish pores. Outer cortical shell spindle-shaped, inflated in the equatorial zone, tapering conically towards both poles, with very delicate network of small roundish pores and thin bars. Surface covered with innumerable very small spines. Both medullary shells lenticular. (Resembles very much Peripanartus atractus, Pl. 40, fig. 7, but differs in the number of the chambers and their proportion to the outer mantle, which envelops spindle-like all six chambers.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered internal cortical shell 0.27, of the outer 0.32; greatest breadth of the former 0.09, of the latter 0.15; pores of the inner cortical shell (on an average)—proximal chambers 0.008, middle chambers 0.02, distal chambers 0.004, bars 0.004; pores of the outer cortical shell 0.002 to 0.004, bars 0.002.

Genus 172. Desmartus,^[211] n. gen.

Definition.—Zygartida with double cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated tubes, opposite on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Desmartus differs from Desmocampe by the development of two hollow fenestrated tubes, opposite on both poles of the main axis, and bears therefore the same relation to it as Ommatartus to Ommatocampe. Both the former genera can be produced from the two latter by duplication of the cortical shell.

Zygartus larvalis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xl, fig. 12).

Inner cortical shell composed of six kidney-shaped chambers of nearly the same size and structure; every chamber twice as broad as long, with four to five transverse rows of irregular, roundish pores, twice to five times as broad as the bars; the basal pores of the distal chambers {399}somewhat larger and more square. Outer cortical shell cylindrical, hemispherical at both poles, with irregular, polygonal pores, on an average twice as large as those of the inner, but the bars between them much thinner. Outer surface spiny. Both medullary shells lenticular. Polar tubes conical, a little longer than one internal chamber, as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell. Sometimes the tubes exhibit prominent edges (as in the lower spine of fig. 12); the pores of these are very small, and roundish.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered internal cortical shell 0.23, of the external 0.3; greatest breadth of the former 0.07, of the latter 0.11; pores of the inner shell 0.004 to 0.01, of the outer 0.01 to 0.02; bars of the former 0.002, of the latter 0.001; length of the polar tubes 0.05, basal thickness 0.02.

Inner cortical shell composed of six to ten kidney-shaped chambers, tapering in size towards both poles, every chamber with six to seven transverse rows of irregular, roundish pores, twice to six times broader than the bars. Outer cortical shell spindle-shaped, in the equatorial zone inflated, tapering towards both poles, its network similar to the inner, only more delicate. Polar tubes conical, twice as long as an inner chamber, as broad at the base as the outer medullary shell. Both medullary shells lenticular.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered internal cortical shell 0.25, of the external 0.32; greatest breadth of the former 0.08, of the latter 0.12; pores of the inner shell 0.002 to 0.012, of the outer 0.003 to 0.01; bars of the former 0.002, of the latter 0.001; length of the polar tubes 0.07, basal thickness 0.03.

Genus 173. Zygocampe,^[212] n. gen.

Definition.—Zygartida with triple (or multiple) cortical shell and double medullary shell, without polar tubes.

The genus Zygocampe differs from Desmocampe and Ommatocampe by the multiplication of the cortical shell, which is composed of three or more concentric envelopes. The three mentioned genera form therefore a phylogenetic series, produced by the concentric increase on the outside of the jointed cortical shell. Commonly the second cortical shell is not as complete as the first (or innermost), and the third (or outermost) is yet more incomplete. Rarely the number of the concentric cortical shells surpasses three.

Inner cortical shell with six to twelve chambers of nearly the same size and form. Every chamber kidney-shaped, with four to five transverse rows of circular, subregular pores, twice as {400}broad as the bars. Middle cortical shell cylindrical, hemispherical at both poles, with subregular circular pores somewhat smaller than those of the inner; the bars also thinner. Outer cortical shell of the same form as the middle, but with very delicate network, and quite irregular, roundish pores and very thin bars. Surface quite smooth. Both medullary shells lenticular. (May be regarded in a phylogenetic as well as an ontogenetic sense, as the further developmental form of Desmocampe catenula and Ommatocampe polyarthra.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered inner cortical shell 0.17, of the middle 0.22, of the outer 0.27; greatest breadth of the first 0.05, of the second 0.09, of the third 0.12; pores of the inner cortical shell 0.005, of the middle 0.004, of the outer 0.003 to 0.012; bars of the first 0.003, of the second 0.002, of the third 0.001.

Inner cortical shell with six to eight chambers of different size and form. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with five to six transverse rows of subregular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars. All following chambers cap-like, the distal somewhat smaller; their pores much smaller, irregular, roundish; only at the base of each chamber a circle of ten to twelve large square pores. Middle cortical shell cylindrical, in the equatorial zone a little constricted, hemispherical at both poles, with irregular delicate network of roundish, polygonal meshes. Outer cortical shell of the same form as the middle, but with a very delicate and quite irregular network of polygonal meshes. Commonly this outer mantle is incomplete, and sometimes interwoven in a spongy manner with the middle (or also with the inner). Surface covered with many irregular, thin, bristle-like spines. Both medullary shells lenticular. (May be considered in a phylogenetic and ontogenetic sense as a further developmental stage of Desmocampe aphrodite and Ommatocampe nereis, Pl. 40, fig. 10.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered inner cortical shell 0.24, of the middle 0.3, of the outer 0.36; greatest breadth of the first 0.08, of the second 0.12, of the third 0.16, pores of the first (on an average) 0.005 to 0.02, of the second 0.003 to 0.015, of the third 0.01 to 0.05; bars corresponding 0.005 or 0.003 or 0.001.

Inner cortical shell with six to eighteen chambers of different size and form. Both proximal chambers kidney-shaped, with six to seven transverse rows of subregular, circular pores, three to four times as broad as the bars. All following chambers with more irregular pores, with a circle of ten to twelve larger square pores at the base. Middle cortical shell with smaller, irregular, roundish pores. Outer cortical shell with larger polygonal, quite irregular pores. Both outer shells appear commonly incomplete or somewhat irregularly developed, and sometimes in a spongy manner interwoven with one another. Surface covered with irregular, bristle-like spines. Both medullary shells spherical. The breadth of the chambers decreases gradually towards both poles, so that the whole shell assumes a spindle form. Sometimes on both poles is developed a short conical {401}polar tube (in fig. 13 only on the upper pole), and so this species is transformed into Zygartus chrysalis.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 272 to 274, depth 2350 to 2750 fathoms.

Genus 174. Zygartus,^[213] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 463.

Definition.—Zygartida with triple (or multiple) cortical shell and double medullary shell, with two hollow fenestrated tubes, opposite on both poles of the main axis.

The genus Zygartus differs from Zygocampe by the development of two hollow fenestrated tubes, on the two opposite poles of the main axis. It exhibits therefore to the latter the same relation that Desmartus does to Desmocampe and Ommatartus to Ommatocampe; it differs from these by the multiplication of the cortical shell, which is composed of at least three concentric envelopes.

Inner cortical shell composed of six (or more) kidney-shaped chambers, all nearly of the same size and structure, every chamber with four to five transverse rows of irregular, roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; the basal pores scarcely larger than the apical pores. Middle cortical shell nearly of the same structure as the inner, only the pores larger and the bars thinner. Outer cortical shell cylindrical, hemispherical at both poles, its network very delicate, with large irregular, polygonal pores, and very thin bars between them; its surface covered with thin bristle-like spines. Both medullary shells lenticular. Polar tube cylindrical, with conical apex, and with very small pores; its length equals the breadth of two internal chambers, its breadth that of the inner medullary shell. (This species appears to be a further developed form of Ommatocampe annulata and Desmartus larvalis, Pl. 40, fig. 12.)

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered inner cortical shell 0.25, of the middle 0.3, of the outer 0.35; greatest breadth of the first 0.07, of the second 0.11, of the third 0.15; pores of the inner shell 0.005 to 0.01, of the middle 0.003 to 0.007, of the outer 0.008 to 0.02; bars of the first 0.002, of the second and third 0.001; length of the polar tubes 0.15, basal thickness 0.02.

Inner cortical shell composed of six to twenty (commonly eight to twelve) chambers of different size and form. Both proximal chambers nearly hemispherical, with spiny surface and subregular, {402}circular pores, three to four times as broad as the bars. All following chambers cap-like, tapering towards both poles, with more irregular, roundish pores, with a circle of ten to twelve larger square pores at the base. Middle cortical shell with smaller roundish pores. Outer cortical shell with larger polygonal, quite irregular pores. Both medullary shells lenticular. Polar tubes conical or cylindrical with conical apex, of very variable length, sometimes not longer than one internal chamber, at other times twice to four times as long (in the figured specimen not fully developed, as also a part of the shells). Differs from Zygocampe chrysalis only by the production of polar tubes.

Dimensions.—Length of the six-chambered inner cortical shell 0.25, of the middle 0.3, of the outer 0.35; greatest breadth of the first 0.07, of the second 0.11, of the third 0.14; other measures the same as in Zygocampe chrysalis; length of the tubes 0.05 to 0.12 or more.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Suborder V. DISCOIDEA, Haeckel (Pls. 31-38, 41-48).

Definition.—Spumellaria with discoidal or lenticular central capsule (often with radial prolongations, rarely allomorphic); with discoidal or lenticular fenestrated siliceous shell (often with radial spines or fenestrated arms, rarely allomorphic). Growth reduced or diminished in the direction of one dimensive axis.

The section Discoidea comprises those Spumellaria in which the fenestrated shell is more or less discoidal or lenticular, flattened or compressed in the direction of one axis. The geometric fundamental form of the latticed shell, which in the Sphæroidea is a sphere, here becomes a flat disk, like a medal, or a biconvex lens, sometimes also a biconcave lens. The Discoidea can be derived from the Sphæroidea by shortening of one axis. This shortened vertical axis is the main axis of the disk; both its poles are constantly equal. Perpendicular to this axis is the equatorial plane of the disk by which it becomes divided into equal halves. In the simplest forms of Discoidea all axes of this horizontal equatorial plane (all "equatorial axes" or "cross axes") are equal; in the most of the genera and species these cross axes are different, so that rays of stronger growth ("perradii") alternate with rays of weaker growth ("interradii"). The number of these cross axes distinguishable is commonly two to four, rarely more. In the direction of these are developed either radial marginal spines or spongy arms.

The order Discoidea was founded in my Monograph (1862, p. 476) as the family "Discida" (Radiolaria with flat discoidal or biconvex lenticular shell), comprising the {403}"Calodictya and Lithocyclidina" of Ehrenberg and a great part of his "Haliommatina." As three different subfamilies of that family I separated the Coccodiscida (with five genera), the Trematodiscida (with seven genera), and the Discospirida (with two genera; Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 485). A fourth group of Discoidea was constituted by the Spongodiscida (with eight genera, including the Spongocyclida), which at that time I united with the Spongurida, because of their spongy structure (loc. cit., p. 452).

As the number of fossil Discoidea found in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and of the Mediterranean shores (Sicily and Greece) is comparatively very large, we find even in the first system of Polycystina of Ehrenberg (1847), not less than twelve genera distinguished, viz., six Calodictya, two Haliommatina, and four Lithocyclidina (Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1847, p. 53). The whole number of Radiolarian genera distinguished in that first system was forty-four. The diagnoses of them given by Ehrenberg were as usual very insufficient. The characters of the three families given by him were the following:—Calodictya—"Testarum intus spongiosarum et nucleo destitutarum orbes; Haliommatina—Testæ subglobosæ nucleus radiatus; Lithocyclidina—Testarum disci in media parte nucleati margine celluloso." In the latest work of Ehrenberg (1875, p. 157) the same system was repeated, but some new genera added; and thirty-eight different species, appertaining to the Discoidea, were figured in the same work (Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, Tafs. xx.-xxx.).

Richard Hertwig, 1879, in his excellent work, Der Organismus der Radiolarien (pp. 57-68), gave a detailed description of the skeleton of some Discoidea, and arrived at the conclusion that this whole family had a spirally constructed skeleton, and should therefore be derived from the Lithelida. But this conclusion is certainly erroneous, and in my opinion the whole explanation of that spiral structure, and of its signification in the development of Discoidea, is the weakest part of that otherwise very important work.

In my Prodromus (1881, p. 456) I gave a provisional system of the Discida or Discoidea from the immense quantity of new material collected by the Challenger, and could distinguish not less than eighty-four genera. This number is from subsequent research only augmented by seven, so that in the following pages ninety-one genera with five hundred and one species are described. In the Prodromus I had disposed them in four different families, which number is now increased to six. These six families can be again disposed in two main groups or sections, the Phacodiscaria and the Cyclodiscaria, each section with three families.

The Phacodiscaria are characterised by the possession of a typical "phacoid shell," and contain the three families Cenodiscida, Phacodiscida, and Coccodiscida. On the other hand, the Cyclodiscaria are distinguished by the absence of such a "phacoid shell," and contain the three families Porodiscida, Pylodiscida, and Spongodiscida. Both sections exhibit an analogous development.

The Cenodiscida (Pl. 48, figs. 1-3) open the series of the Discoidea as their simplest forms; a discoidal or lenticular simple lattice-shell encloses a central capsule of the same form, and is separated from it by the calymma or jelly-veil. The common ancestral form of this family is Cenodiscus, without radial marginal spines; it can be derived from Cenosphæra in the most simple way, by flattening in one axis. If on the equatorial margin of the lens a peculiar solid girdle be developed, we obtain Zonodiscus; in all other genera of the Cenodiscida radial spines are developed on the margin. As the simple lenticular cortical shell of Cenodiscus, in which the central capsule is enclosed, is most characteristic not only of this family, but also of the two following families, we call it the phacoid shell (that is, a lenticular extracapsular or cortical lattice-shell).

The Phacodiscida (Pls. 31-35), the second family, have the same extracapsular "phacoid shell" as the Cenodiscida, but differ from these by the possession of one or two intracapsular concentric medullary shells, which are connected with the former by radial beams, perforating the lenticular central capsule. The radial beams are commonly numerous, and arranged in two opposite bunches around the shortened main axis. But often also besides these occur other longer radial beams, situated in the equatorial plane; the number of these is commonly four, and they form a regular rectangular cross, lying opposite in pairs in two equatorial diameters, perpendicular one to another. In the simplest genera of this family (the Sethodiscida) the equatorial margin of the phacoid shell is simple or surrounded by a solid smooth girdle; in all other genera are developed on the margin solid radial spines lying in the equatorial plane, either regularly disposed in a somewhat constant number (two to eight, Heliosestrida), or irregularly disposed, in a larger and more variable number (ten to twenty or more, Heliodiscida).

The Coccodiscida (Pls. 36-38) form a third family of the Discoidea, directly associated with the Phacodiscida; both have the same characteristic extracapsular "phacoid shell," which is connected by radial beams with a simple or double, intracapsular medullary shell. But whilst in the foregoing family the equatorial margin of the phacoid shell is simple or only armed with radial spines, in the Coccodiscida it is surrounded by peculiar concentric chambered girdles, or rings, which resemble those of the following family, the Porodiscida. Each of these "chambered girdles" is composed of a circular ring in the equatorial plane, a variable number of radial beams dividing it into incomplete chambers, and two porous cover-plates or "sieve-plates," covering the upper and lower face of the disk. These sieve-plates may be regarded as incomplete lenticular cortical shells, which are only developed in the peripheral part of the disk, whilst their central part is represented by the only complete cortical shell, the "phacoid shell." The number of these concentric chamber-girdles amounts to from one to ten or more. The margin of the disk is either simple (Lithocyclida) or armed with radial spines (Stylocyclida), or provided with two to five chambered radial arms (Astracturida); the structure of the arms is the same as that of the girdles.

The Porodiscida (Pls. 41-47), the largest family of all Discoidea, begins the series of Cyclodiscaria, or those Discoidea in which there is no "phacoid shell," but a small simple central chamber surrounded by a number of small latticed chambers of nearly the same size and form. In the Porodiscida these chambers are arranged in complete circular concentric rings or spiral convolutions; in the small family of Pylodiscida the central chamber is surrounded by three radial arm-chambers separated by three open spaces; in the third family of Cyclodiscaria, the Spongodiscida, all the chambers are arranged more or less irregularly, and the whole disk becomes spongy; also the surface of the disk is spongy, whilst in both former families it is covered by two regular even porous plates or "sieve-plates." Probably all Cyclodiscaria can be derived phylogenetically from Archidiscus, a very small and simple lenticular disk, which is composed of a small spherical latticed central chamber and of a single concentric chambered ring or girdle; the margin of this ring is connected with the central chamber by a variable number of radial beams. This Archidiscus can be derived either from Saturnalis (Pl. 13, fig. 16.) by the development of lattice-work between the equatorial ring and both polar faces of the concentric central chamber, or from Sethodiscus (Pl. 33, figs. 1-3) by flattening of the lenticular shell, so that the enclosed inner medullary shell (the central chamber) meets the outer phacoid shell at both poles.

The Porodiscida are commonly flat or biconvex (rarely biconcave) disks, the central chamber of which is surrounded not by a single, but by a variable number (commonly three to six) of concentric chambered girdles or rings; they arise from Archidiscus by apposition of new concentric chambered rings around the first ring, all lying in the equatorial plane. Afterwards the disk often becomes thickened by apposition of concentric chamber-rings on both flat sides also, so that two to four or more layers are stratified one over the other. The circular concentric rings often become interrupted, or spirally convoluted (wholly or partially); also the chambers sometimes become irregularly crowded. But in all cases both surfaces of the disk (upper and lower) continue to be porous plates or sieve-plates, at least in the centre, but they never become spongy.

The margin of the disk exhibits in the Porodiscida a great variety of different forms, serving for distinction of subfamilies and of genera. In the Trematodiscida the margin remains quite simple, as in the Archidiscida, or is only surrounded by a hyaline equatorial girdle. In the Ommatodiscida it is distinguished by one or two peculiar oscula, surrounded by a corona of spines. The Stylodictyida are distinguished by a number of solid radial spines, and the Euchitonida by a number of chambered, or spongy, radial arms, arising from the margin of the disk and lying in the equatorial plane. The variety of these radial marginal appendages is in the Porodiscida much greater than in the Coccodiscida.

The Pylodiscida (Pl. 48, figs. 12-20) represent a new, small, but very remarkable family of Discoidea, all triradial, and distinguished by the peculiar formation of {406}large open spaces in the latticed discoidal shell, which reappear in a similar shape among the Larcoidea in the Pylonida (Tetrapyle, &c.). We get the best understanding of this peculiar formation if we return to Archidiscus, probably the common ancestral form of all Cyclodiscaria, of the Porodiscida as well as of the Pylodiscida and Spongodiscida. In some species of Archidiscus (Archidiscus hexoniscus, Archidiscus pyloniscus, &c.) the small lenticular shell is composed of a spherical latticed central chamber and of a concentric equatorial girdle composed of six such chambers, either all six equal, or alternately larger and smaller. This latter form is nearly identical with Triodiscus, and if we imagine the lattice-work of only three ring-chambers complete, whilst that of the three alternating chambers is reduced to the marginal ring, we get Triopyle, by loss of this ring Triolene (a disk composed of four simple lattice-chambers, lying in one plane, three radial around one central spherule). The genera mentioned form together the subfamily of Triopylida. In the second subfamily, Hexapylida, the same formation is doubled; here three double arm-chambers are separated by three double spaces (two in each radius). Also here the three distal spaces may be either quite open (Pylolena), or half closed by the marginal girdle (Hexapyle), or quite loosely latticed (Pylodiscus). If the margin of this latter form become surrounded by a perfect chambered equatorial girdle, we get Discozonium, and if this acquire a peculiar marginal ostium (surrounded by a corona of spines) we arrive at Discopyle. These two latter genera form the third subfamily, the Discopylida. The eight genera of Pylodiscida represent therefore a continuous phylogenetic series.

The Spongodiscida are the sixth and last family of the Discoidea, differing from the five other families in the irregular, spongy structure of the discoidal skeleton; both surfaces of the flat disk (upper and lower) are here principally covered with a rough, spongy framework, whilst in the five other families they are covered by the flat and smooth porous plates or sieve-plates. Nevertheless there is no sharp boundary between the Spongodiscida and the closely allied Porodiscida. In these latter also the discoidal shell becomes often more or less spongy (mainly in the peripheral part, e.g., in Myelastrum, Pl. 47); but at least the central part of the disk here remains constantly covered by sieve-plates. The massive skeleton of the Spongodiscida is either of perfectly irregular structure, only composed of innumerable fine branched siliceous threads, interwoven in all possible directions; or only the outer part of the disk is composed of such spongy framework, whilst the central part is more or less distinctly composed of concentric chambered rings, as in the Porodiscida. These latter forms indeed exhibit an immediate transition to this family, and were formerly (in 1862) separated by me as Spongocyclida. Also the polymorphous shape of the disk margin in the Spongodiscida is quite analogous to that of the Porodiscida. Whilst in the first subfamily, the Spongophacida, the margin is quite simple; in the second, the Spongotrochida, it is armed with solid radial spines; and in the third, the Spongobrachida, it is provided with two, three, {407}or four spongy, radial arms—the former as well as the latter lying in the equatorial plane of the disk, either regularly or irregularly disposed.

The Equatorial Margin of the lenticular disk exhibits in all six families of Discoidea similar characters, mainly serving for the distinction of subfamilies and genera. In the most primitive genera of all six families the margin is simple, without radial prolongations (spines or arms); it is quite simple in Cenodiscus, Sethodiscus, Phacodiscus, Lithocyclia, Coccodiscus, Archidiscus, Porodiscus, Pylodiscus, and Spongodiscus. In some genera the simple margin of the lenticular disk is bordered and surrounded by a thin, hyaline, equatorial girdle of silex, either quite solid or slightly porous (Zonodiscus, Periphæna, Perizona, Perichlamydium, and Spongophacus).

A quite peculiar and remarkable character of few genera is the development of one or two oscula, larger marginal openings, which are surrounded by a corona of spines, and probable are fit for the issue a peculiar bunch of pseudopodia or of a "sarcode flagellum." Such oscula occur only in two families of Cyclodiscaria; in the Porodiscida and Pylodiscida; in the former Ommatodiscus, in the latter Discopyle (Pl. 48, figs. 19, 20) is distinguished by a single marginal osculum; besides this, in the former occurs Stomatodiscus, with two such oscula, opposite on the poles of one axis (Pl. 48, fig. 8). These oscula may be compared with the similar polar formations in some Ellipsida (Lithomespilus) and in many Cyrtoidea; but they do not prove a nearer affinity with the latter, and are only analogous, not homologous.

Radial Spines occur on the margin in the equatorial plane of the Discoidea in the greatest variety of number, form, size, and disposition. If the number be low (between two and eight) they are commonly regularly disposed; if the number be larger (ten to twenty or more) their disposition becomes commonly more or less irregular. The regular disposition is of great promorphological importance, as indicating the axes in which the growth is preponderant, and introduces other peculiar radial formations. Regarding these axes we can generally distinguish two groups, Artiacantha with a paired number (two, four, eight), and Perissacantha with odd numbers (usually three). The section of Artiacantha could be divided into three following groups:—A. Stylodiscida, with two radial spines only, lying opposite on both poles of one equatorial axis (the "first cross axis")—Stylodiscus, Sethostylus, Stylocyclia, Xiphodictya, Spongolonche (Pl. 31, figs. 9-12; Pl. 38, fig. 1; Pl. 42, figs. 10-12, &c.); B. Staurodiscida, with four radial spines, lying opposite in pairs on the poles of two crossed equatorial axes, perpendicular to one another (first and second cross axes)—Crucidiscus, Sethostaurus, Staurocyclia, Staurodictya, Spongostaurus (Pl. 31, figs. 1-8; Pl. 37, figs. 1-4; Pl. 42, figs. 1-6; Pl. 48, fig. 2, &c.); C. Octostylida, with eight radial spines, opposite in pairs in four axes, which are crossed at angles of 45°—Heliosestrum, Astrosestrum, &c. (Pl. 32, figs. 4, 5; Pl. 34, figs. 3, 6); in this latter case sometimes the radial symmetry is the same as in many Medusæ, four larger (perradial) {408}spines alternating with four smaller (interradial), indicating radii of first and second order. The section of Perissacantha is much smaller, and commonly represented only by triradial forms, with three spines at equal distances (120°)—Triactis, Tripocyclia, Tripodictya, Spongotripus, &c. (Pl. 33, fig. 6; Pl. 37, fig. 5; Pl. 42, figs. 7-9).

Radial Arms on the margin of the disk appear in similar variety of number, form, and disposition as the radial spines; but the number is here commonly limited to from two to four, rarely five to six. The arms are absent in the families Cenodiscida and Phacodiscida; in the four other families they return under similar forms. These arms are direct prolongations of the disk, and exhibit the same structure, so that they may be regarded both as centrifugal productions of certain radii, and also inversely as peripheral parts of a disk, the interjacent radii of which are reduced. The regular disposition and shape of the arms, an important character for the distinction of genera and species, is repeated in a quite analogous manner in the four above mentioned families, so that we can distinguish the following groups—A. Amphibrachida, with two radial arms, opposite on the poles of one equatorial axis (the first cross axis)—Diplactura, Amphibrachium, Spongobrachium (Pl. 38, figs. 3-5; Pl. 44, figs. 6-11); B. Triobrachida, with three radial arms; the most important group (with all Pylodiscida); either all three arms are equal and disposed at equal distances (Trigonactura, Dictyastrum, Rhopalodictyum, Pl. 38, figs. 6-9; Pl. 43, figs. 5, 13, 16; Pl. 48, figs. 12-19), or a single odd arm differs in size and position, and is often larger than both the opposite paired arms (Rhopalastrum, Euchitonia, Pl. 43, figs. 6, 10, 15, &c.); C. Tetrabrachida, with four radial arms, opposite in pairs in two crossed axes, commonly perpendicular one to another, Stauractura, Stauralastrum, Spongaster, &c. (Pls. 46, 47).

The arms are commonly simple, undivided, but sometimes also forked or branched (Pl. 43, figs. 15, 16; Pl. 47). Their basal parts are either free, separately inserted into the margin of the circular central disk, or they are connected by a "patagium," a peculiar connecticulum, like a web-membrane, which is composed of a chambered, commonly more or less spongy framework, different in texture from the lattice-work of the arms (Pl. 38, figs. 8, 9; Pl. 43, figs. 9-16; Pl. 46). Sometimes the patagium overgrows the whole shell. A peculiar modification of it appears in Stephanastrum (Pl. 44, fig. 1), where only the distal parts of the arms are connected by the ring-shaped patagium, whilst the basal parts are free; therefore open gates rest between them, like those of the Pylodiscida (Pl. 48, figs. 12-20).

The Central Capsule of the Discoidea is constantly discoidal, more or less lenticular; in some cases more biconvex, with vaulted faces and thin margin; in others more medal-shaped, with flat faces and thick margin. In the Cenodiscida alone the capsule lies freely inside the simple phacoid shell, and is separated from it by the jelly-veil. In the other five families the capsule encloses the central parts of the skeleton, and is enveloped by the superficial parts of it, whilst its membrane is perforated by radial beams {409}connecting the latter with the former. In the Phacodiscida and Coccodiscida the capsule encloses the simple or double medullary shell, but is itself enclosed by the cortical phacoid shell. In all Cyclodiscaria (in the Porodiscida, Pylodiscida, and Spongodiscida) the capsule fills out the greatest part of the chambered or spongy skeleton, and is only protected by the superficial parts of it, in the Porodiscida and Pylodiscida by the covering sieve-plates, in the Spongodiscida by the spongy cortical substance of the shell. The growth of the capsule corresponds to that of the including shell, gradually increasing on the margin in the equatorial plane. Whilst in the greater number of Discoidea its form continues circular, in many forms provided with radial arms it enters into the arms and assumes their form. The protoplasm of the capsule is commonly coloured by brown or red pigment, and often contains many oil-globules. The nucleus is originally enclosed by the medullary shell or the central chamber, and with increasing size enters into the surrounding parts; in the Cyclodiscaria it often fills out the internal concentric rings. The extracapsular jelly or the calymma is commonly thick, and envelops the greater part or the whole body.

Synopsis of the Families of the Discoidea.

Family XVIII. Cenodiscida, n. fam. (Pl. 31, fig. 11; Pl. 48, figs. 1-3).

Definition.—Discoidea with simple extracapsular phacoid shell (or lenticular latticed cortical shell), without medullary shell and without chambered equatorial girdles.

The new family Cenodiscida opens the long series Discoidea, as their most simple and primitive form. The circular lenticular central capsule is enclosed by a {410}simple latticed shell of the same form, only separated from it by a thinner or thicker jelly-veil. The lenticular or discoidal fenestrated shell is therefore an extracapsular or "cortical shell," without an enclosed medullary shell.

The few genera of the Cenodiscida differ only in the shape of the equatorial margin of the lenticular disk. In the first subfamily, Zonodiscida, the margin is either quite simple (Cenodiscus) or surrounded by a smooth, solid equatorial girdle (Zonodiscus). In the second subfamily, Trochodiscida, the margin is armed with solid radial spines, lying in the equatorial plane. According to the number and disposition of these marginal spines, we distinguish Stylodiscus (with two spines, opposite in one equatorial axis), Crucidiscus (with four spines, opposite in pairs in two equatorial axes, perpendicular one to another), Theodiscus (with three marginal spines), and Trochodiscus (with numerous, commonly twenty to thirty, irregularly disposed spines). The spines are constantly simple, not branched; sometimes more conical or cylindrical, at other times more angular or pyramidal.

The two convex faces of the lenticular shell are constantly of similar shape, commonly smooth, sometimes more or less thorny, or armed with bristle-shaped radial spines. The pores are commonly more or less regular, circular, and disposed in series, which are occasionally more radial, at other times more concentric. If the wall of the hollow lens be rather thick, the difference in the shape of the central and peripheral pores is often striking. The central pores perforating the thick wall perpendicularly are short cylindrical tubes; the marginal pores perforating it in an oblique direction are longer conical tubes. The bars between the central pores are often somewhat smaller.

The Central Capsule of the Cenodiscida is in all cases a perfect, circular, biconvex lens, the equatorial diameter of which is commonly between two-thirds and three-fourths of the enclosing lattice-shell. The interval between the two is filled up by the jelly-veil, or the hyaline "calymma," which is perforated by the numerous pseudopodia that pass through the shell-pores.

As the Cenodiscida possess the most simple shell-form of all Discoidea, we may regard Cenodiscus as the common ancestral form of this large section, in the same manner as Cenosphæra is the ancestral form of Sphæroidea, Cenellipsis of the Prunoidea, Cenolarcus of the Larcoidea. But it is also possible that a part of Cenodiscida (or all?) arises from the Phacodiscida by reduction and loss of the medullary shell. For in some cases we find arising from the inside of the shell centripetal radial beams, which end at a certain equal distance from the hollow centre (Pl. 31, fig. 11; Pl. 38, fig. 2). Cenodiscus itself can be derived either from Cenosphæra by compression of the spheroidal shell in one axis, or from Sethodiscus by loss of the intracapsular medullary shell, or from Actidiscus (the lenticular Actissa) by formation of a cortical shell around the lenticular central capsule.

Synopsis of the Genera of the Cenodiscida.

Subfamily 1. Zonodiscida, Haeckel.

Genus 175. Cenodiscus,^[214] n. gen.

Definition.—Cenodiscida with simple margin of the circular disk, without surrounding equatorial girdle and without radial spines.

The genus Cenodiscus is the most simple and primitive form of all Discoidea, and represents possibly the common ancestral form of this order. The latticed shell is a simple biconvex lens, and encloses a smaller central capsule of the same form, separated from it by the jelly-veil. Cenodiscus can be derived phylogenetically either from Cenosphæra by lenticular flattening of a simple latticed sphere, or directly from Actissa by formation of a lenticular fenestrated shell around the lentiform central capsule. Possibly also some forms of Cenodiscus can be derived from Sethodiscus by reduction and loss of the medullary shell.

Disk with smooth surface, without radial ribs or spines. Margin of the lenticular biconvex disk thin, simple. Pores regular, circular; fifteen to sixteen on the radius of the disk. (Very similar to Sethodiscus phacoides, but without medullary shell.)

Disk with smooth surface, without medial ribs or spines. Margin of the disk blunt, very thick, rounded; both faces little convex. Pores regular, circular; thirteen to fourteen on the radius of the disk. (Similar to Phacodiscus rotula, Pl. 35, fig. 7, but without medullary shell.)

Disk with thorny surface, scattered with small, conical spines. Margin of the lenticular biconvex disk thin. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to eleven on the radius of the disk.

Genus 176. Zonodiscus,^[215] n. gen.

Definition.—Cenodiscida with surrounding solid equatorial girdle on the margin of the lenticular disk, without radial spines.

The genus Zonodiscus differs from the preceding Cenodiscus only in the development of a solid siliceous girdle around the keen margin of the lenticular disk. This form can also be derived from Periphæna or Perizona by reduction and loss of the medullary shell. The same girdle formation returns not only in both these Phacodiscida (Pl. 32, fig. 7; Pl. 33, fig. 4), but also in the Porodiscid Perichlamydium.

Disk with smooth surface, without radial spines. Pores regular, circular, fifteen to sixteen on the radius of the disk, in its distal half arranged in fifty to sixty radial series, which are separated by prominent radial crests or ribs. The crests are prolonged into the proximal half of the thin solid equatorial girdle, which is one-third as broad as the radius of the disk.

Subfamily 2. Trochodiscida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cenodiscida with radial spines on the margin of the disk, disposed in the equatorial plane.

Genus 177. Stylodiscus,^[216] n. gen.

Definition.—Cenodiscida with two radial spines on the margin of the disk, opposite in one equatorial axis.

The genus Stylodiscus opens the series of the Trochodiscida or of those Cenodiscida in which the thin margin of the hollow lenticular disk is armed with a number of solid radial spines, situated in its equatorial plane. Stylodiscus is at the same time the most simple form of the Stylodiscida, or of the numerous Discoidea (belonging to different families) in which the disk bears only two spines, opposite in one equatorial axis. Hitherto only two species of this genus have been observed, but they seem to represent two different subgenera.

Subgenus 1. Stylentodiscus, Haeckel.

Sethostylus endostylus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxi, fig. 11).

Disk with smooth surface and dentated margin. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to twelve on the radius of the disk. Marginal teeth conical, short, irregular. Both opposite polar spines cylindrical, longer than the diameter of the disk, and as broad as one larger pore. On the inside of the hollow disk both spines are prolonged into two strong centripetal axial rods, which do not reach the centre. Also a number of smaller centripetal axial rods surrounds the central cavity, so that an original medullary shell (Sethostylus) seems to have been lost (comp. above, p. 410).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the pores 0.005 to 0.02; length of the polar spines 0.3 and more, thickness 0.012.

Subgenus 2. Stylexodiscus, Haeckel.

Disk with smooth surface and smooth margin. Pores regular, circular; eight to nine on the radius of the disk. Both opposite polar spines pyramidal, sulcated, about as long as the radius of the disk, and three times as long as broad at the base. Inner cavity of the disk simple, without centripetal rods.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the pores 0.007; length of the polar spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.03.

Genus 178. Theodiscus,^[217] n. gen.

Definition.—Cenodiscida with three radial spines on the margin of the disk, placed in its equatorial plane.

The genus Theodiscus is the most simple form of those very numerous Discoidea in which three rays are developed on the margin of the disk; a symbol of the Christian dogma of the Trinity. Commonly the three angles between the three spines are equal, more rarely one angle is larger than the two others which are equal. The shell of some species is nearly spherical (formerly separated by me as Theosphæra), whilst in others it is a flattened biconvex lens.

Subgenus 1. Theodiscoma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Angles between the three radial spines equal (triangle equilateral).

Disk nearly spherical, with smooth surface. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed; seven to eight on the radius. Three angles between the spines equal. Spines prismatic, straight, twice as broad as one pore, eight to eleven times as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.1, of the pores 0.006; length of the spines 0.8 to 1.1, breadth 0.01.

Disk nearly spherical, with smooth surface. Pores regular, circular, prolonged into short cylindrical, prominent tubuli, half as high as broad; eight to nine on the radius. Three angles between the spines equal. Spines prismatic, straight, twice as broad as one pore, twelve to fifteen times as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.08, of the pores 0.005; length of the spines 1.1 to 1.2, breadth 0.01.

Disk a rather flattened, biconvex lens, about twice as broad as thick. Pores regular, circular, not prolonged into tubuli; five to six on the radius. Three angles between the spines equal. Spines pyramidal, three times as broad as one pore, about twice as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.06, of the pores 0.007; length of the spine 0.12, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Theodiscura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Angles between the three radial spines unequal, two paired angles equal, larger or smaller than the odd angle (triangle isosceles).

Disk nearly spherical, with smooth surface. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to ten on the radius. Three angles between the spines unequal; one odd angle larger than both others. Spines pyramidal, of unequal size; one odd spine larger, both others smaller than the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12, pores 0.004 to 0.006; length of the odd spine 0.2, of the paired spines 0.1.

Disk a flat biconvex lens, about twice as broad as thick. Pores regular, circular; ten to twelve on the radius. Three angles between the spines unequal; one odd angle smaller than both others. Spines prismatic, very long and thin, twice as broad as one pore, ten to twelve times as long as the shell diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.1, pores 0.005; length of the spines 1 to 1.2 or more, breadth 0.01.

Genus 179. Crucidiscus,^[218] n. gen.

Definition.—Cenodiscida with four radial spines on the margin of the disk, crossed in the equatorial plane.

The genus Crucidiscus is the most simple form of the Staurodiscida, or of the numerous Discoidea (belonging to different families) in which the margin of the disk bears four radial spines, lying in the equatorial plane, and crossed at right angles. Whilst commonly the internal shell-cavity of Crucidiscus is quite simple, in one case it bears four centripetal axial rods, as inner prolongations of the outer radial cross-spines, perhaps indications of a lost medullary shell (comp. p. 410).

Subgenus 1. Staurentodiscus, Haeckel.

Disk with smooth surface and smooth simple margin. Pores regular, circular; thirteen to fourteen on the radius of the disk. Four crossed spines conical, strong, longer than the radius of the disk, on the inside prolonged into four thinner centripetal axial rods, which do not reach the centre. In the middle part of the disk also some other short axial rods arise from the inside, not reaching the centre (as in Stylodiscus endostylus, Pl. 31, fig. 11).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the pores 0.004; length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.014.

Subgenus 2. Staurexodiscus, Haeckel.

Disk with smooth surface and simple smooth margin. Pores regular, circular; seven to eight on the radius of the disk. Four crossed spines pyramidal, with prominent edges, somewhat shorter than the radius of the disk, twice as broad at their thick base as one pore. No internal axial rods in the shell cavity.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12, of the pores 0.005; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.025.

Disk with thorny surface and thorny margin. Pores regular, circular, six to seven on the radius. Four crossed spines pyramidal (four sided?), about as long as the radius of the disk, as broad at their base as one pore. No internal axial rods. Spines of the surface short, conical.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.14, of the pores 0.008; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.02.

Disk with smooth surface and broad dentated margin. Pores regular, circular; eleven to twelve on the radius. Four crossed spines pyramidal, sulcated, about as long as the radius of the disk, as {417}broad at their base as the radiated margin, which bears fifty to sixty triangular pointed teeth of irregular size. (Similar to Sethostaurus cruciatus, Pl. 31, fig. 5, but without internal axial rods and medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the pores 0.007; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 180. Trochodiscus,^[219] n. gen.

Definition.—Cenodiscida with numerous (ten to twenty or more) radial spines on the margin of the disk, situated in its equatorial plane.

The genus Trochodiscus bears on the thin margin of the latticed disk a variable number of radial spines (commonly ten to twenty, sometimes fifty to eighty or more). Their size and disposition are commonly more or less irregular. For the most part all the marginal spines lie in the equatorial plane; but sometimes part of them are crowded into two or four parallel girdles. Several species of this genus are very similar to some species of Heliodiscus, and only differ in the absence of the medullary shell, perhaps in consequence of the phylogenetic loss of it; if this be the case, the former are to be derived from the latter (compare p. 410).

Subgenus 1. Trochodisculus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Bases of the marginal spines free, not connected by a solid equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface. Pores regular, circular; eleven to twelve on the radius. Marginal spines sixteen to twenty, conical, of irregular size and disposition, about three times as long as broad, and as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the pores 0.006; length of the spines 0.06 to 0.09, basal breadth 0.02 to 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface. Pores regular, circular; nine to ten on the radius. Marginal spines ten to twelve, equilateral triangular, deeply sulcated, about half as long and broad as the radius of the disk. (Very similar to Heliosestrum medusinum, Pl. 34, fig. 6, but without enclosed medullary shell. Compare p. 410.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the pores 0.01; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.05.

Disk with smooth surface, in the distal part radially sulcated. Pores irregular, roundish; twelve to fourteen on the radius. Marginal spines very short and numerous (thirty to forty), conical, scarcely one-fourth as long as the radius of the disk, which resembles a wheel with marginal teeth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the pores 0.004; length of the spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.01.

Disk with smooth surface. Pores subregular, circular; eight to nine on the radius. Marginal spines very numerous (sixty to eighty), in two to four girdles densely crowded together, the largest as long as the diameter of the disk, bent and conical. (Similar to Heliodiscus solaster, Pl. 34, fig. 4, but without medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the pores 0.008; length of the spines 0.05 to 0.15, basal breadth 0.01.

Disk with spiny surface. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to eleven on the radius. Marginal spines conical, very numerous (forty to fifty), irregular in size and disposition, the largest half as long as the radius of the disk. (Similar to Heliodiscus echiniscus, Pl. 34, fig. 5, but without medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the pores 0.005 to 0.015; length of the spines 0.02 to 0.04, basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Pristodiscus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Bases of the marginal spines connected by a solid siliceous equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface. Pores subregular, circular; seven to eight on the radius. Marginal spines twelve to sixteen, triangular, of subregular size and disposition, about half as long as the radius of the disk, connected at their broad base by a solid equatorial girdle of half the breadth; girdle and spines radially striped.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the pores 0.015; length of the spines 0.04 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.02 to 0.04.

Disk with smooth surface, in the distal part radially sulcated. Pores regular, circular; twelve to thirteen on the radius. Marginal spines twenty to twenty-four, triangular, of equal size and at regular distances, only one-fourth as long as the radius of the disk, connected at their broad base by a solid equatorial girdle of the double breadth. (Similar to Heliodiscus cingillum, Pl. 33, fig. 7, but without medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.22, of the pores 0.004; length of the spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.02

Family XIX. Phacodiscida, Haeckel (Pls. 31-35).

Definition.—Discoidea with simple extracapsular phacoid shell (or lenticular latticed cortical shell), connected by radial beams with an intracapsular, simple or double, concentric medullary shell, without chambered equatorial girdles.

The family Phacodiscida comprises a large number of splendid forms (about a hundred species), which agree with the preceding Cenodiscida in the possession of the characteristic extracapsular "phacoid shell," but differ from them in having one or two intracapsular "medullary shells"; these concentric spherical medullary shells are connected with the lenticular cortical shell or phacoid shell by means of radial beams perforating the central capsule. The Phacodiscida bear therefore the same relation to the Cenodiscida that the Disphærida and Trisphærida do to the Monosphærida.

Formerly several species belonging to the family were described by Ehrenberg and Johannes Müller, but not distinguished from the Sphæroidea, genus Haliomma (e.g., Haliomma sol et Haliomma humboldtii of the former, Haliomma amphidiscus of the latter). For these oldest known species I constituted in 1862 my genus Heliodiscus (Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 436). Some other genera were afterwards (1875) figured by Ehrenberg as Periphæna and Chilomma. The rich material of the Challenger revealed this family as very polymorphic and widely distributed, so that in my Prodromus (1881, p. 457) I could enumerate eighteen different genera of Phacodiscida. This number is here reduced to fifteen, uniting several of them into one genus as "subgenera."

The Medullary Shell of the Phacodiscida, or the intracapsular latticed shell, is either simple and spherical, or double, composed of two concentric spheres, which are united by a variable number of radial beams. We could distinguish therefore as two subfamilies the Carpodiscida (with simple medullary shell) and the Thecodiscida (with double concentric medullary shell); the former corresponding to the Carposphærida (or Dyosphæria), the latter to the Thecosphærida (or Triosphæria). But as this difference seems not to be so important as the different shape of the disk margin, we prefer this latter as a character {420}for the separation of subfamilies. The form of the medullary shells is commonly quite spherical (as also in the above mentioned Sphæroidea); sometimes it is a little compressed in the same direction as the enclosing lenticular phacoid shell. The diameter of the latter is commonly three to four times as large as the diameter of the medullary shell; if this be double (in the Thecodiscida) then the diameter of the outer medullary shell is commonly three to four times as large as that of the inner. The radial beams connecting the two seem to be very variable in number and disposition (compare Pl. 31, fig. 8; Pl. 32, figs. 3, 4a, 7, 8a; Pl. 33, figs. 2, 3; Pl. 35, figs. 4, 8, 9, &c.).

The Radial Beams, which connect the medullary shell with the cortical or "phacoid shell," and which pierce the membrane of the lenticular central capsule, are commonly aggregated into two polar bunches around the shortened axis of the disk (compare Pl. 31, fig. 8; Pl. 32, figs. 3, 8; Pl. 33, figs. 2, 3, &c.). Their number seems to be usually between ten and thirty. More rarely piercing radial beams lie also in the equatorial plane, and then commonly as inner prolongations of the outer marginal spines; so we find two opposite in one axis, in Heliostylus (Pl. 34, figs. 1, 2), or four opposite in pairs in two crossed axes, in Phacostaurus (Pl. 31, figs. 1, 2, 7). Often the thickness of the beams increases from the centre towards the periphery.

The Phacoid Shell, or the lenticular extracapsular cortical shell, exhibits in the Phacodiscida quite the same general character as in the Cenodiscida, above described (p. 410). Commonly the equatorial diameter of the lens is twice to three times as large as the vertical diameter or the shortened "main axis." The convexity of both opposite faces is either quite even to the sharp margin (Pl. 31, fig. 2; Pl. 33, figs. 2, 5), or the central part of the lens is more strongly vaulted, and often the margin is thickened or truncated (Pl. 31, fig. 10; Pl. 35, fig. 7). The surface of the lens is commonly smooth, but sometimes also covered with bristle-shaped radial spines (Pl. 34, figs. 3, 5; Pl. 32, figs. 2, 3); rarely these spines are prolonged and branched (Pl. 35, figs. 3, 5). The pores of the phacoid shell are usually quite regular, circular, and regularly arranged, either in more concentric or in more radial rows; the latter are sometimes separated by radial crests arising towards the margin (Pl. 35, fig. 6). If the wall of the phacoid shell be much thickened, the pores in its central part are shorter and cylindrical, in its marginal part longer and conical (Pl. 31, fig. 7; Pl. 32, fig. 1).

The Margin of the Lens of the Phacodiscida is very polymorphic, and serves mainly for the separation of genera. In the first subfamily, Sethodiscida, it is either quite simple (Pl. 35, figs. 6-8) or surrounded by a thin solid equatorial girdle, the basal part of which is often radially striped (Pl. 32, figs. 7, 8). In the second subfamily, Heliosestrida, we find on the margin a small number of radial spines in the equatorial plane regularly disposed, either two opposite in one axis (Pl. 31, figs. 9-12) or four opposite in pairs in two crossed axes (Pl. 31, figs. 1-8), or eight opposite in pairs in four axes, crossed at angles of 45° (Pl. 34, figs. 3, 6); in the latter case we can sometimes distinguish {421}(as in many Medusæ) four larger perradial spines alternating with four smaller interradial spines. Often in one and the same species occur abnormalities in number and disposition of the radial spines, three or five spines instead of four, or also seven or nine spines instead of eight; often both halves of the disk become asymmetrical. If the number of the marginal spines exceed eight to ten, they commonly become very variable in size and irregular in disposition; these variations characterise the third subfamily, Heliodiscida. Commonly also here all spines lie in the equatorial plane; but sometimes they become crowded in several parallel circles on both sides of the margin (Pl. 32, fig. 1). The form of the marginal spines is commonly conical or flattened triangular, often also pyramidal or deeply furrowed (Pl. 31, figs. 6-9). Very rarely the spines are fenestrated (Pl. 35, fig. 1); only in one genus (Heliodrymus) they are all or partly branched (Pl. 33, fig. 9; Pl. 35, figs. 3, 5).

The peculiar development of the phacoid shell has been already described by J. Müller (compare my Monograph, 1862, pp. 156, 438).

The Central Capsule of the Phacodiscida is everywhere circular, lenticular, envelops the medullary shell, and is enclosed by the phacoid shell, perforated by the radial beams, which connect the latter to the former.

Synopsis of the Genera of the Phacodiscida.

Subfamily 1. Sethodiscida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Genus 181. Sethodiscus,^[220] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell and simple margin of the circular disk, without surrounding equatorial girdle and without radial spines.

The genus Sethodiscus is the most simple and primitive form of all Phacodiscida, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form of this family. The simple spherical medullary shell is connected by a variable number of radial beams with the lenticular or discoidal cortical shell (or "phacoid shell"). The margin of this latter is quite simple, circular, without solid equatorial girdle or radial spines. From the nearly allied genus Carposphæra of the Sphæroidea, its probable ancestral form, Sethodiscus can be derived simply by lenticular compression of the spheroidal cortical shell.

Subgenus 1. Sethodiscinus, Haeckel.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; fourteen to fifteen on the radius of the disk. (Very similar to Periphæna cincta, Pl. 33, fig. 4, but without the girdle of the margin.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.07, of the pores 0.005.

Disk with smooth surface, twice as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, very large; five to six on the radius of the disk. (Remarkable for the extraordinary size of the pores, which reaches half the radius of the medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05, of the pores 0.012.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, very small; twenty-two to twenty-four on the radius of the disk. (The small pores are scarcely half as broad as the thick bars between them.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the medullary shell 0.06, of the pores 0.002.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, polygonal; eight to nine on the radius of the disk. (The pores of the medullary shell, fig. 2, are also irregular, polygonal, or roundish.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.17, of the medullary shell 0.04, of the pores 0.01.

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, polygonal; eleven to twelve on the radius of the disk. (The pores of the medullary shell, fig. 3, are regular, circular, with elevated hexagonal frames between them. The figured specimen is a young one, both halves of the biconvex disk being not yet united in the equatorial plane.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.065, of the pores 0.01.

Disk with smooth surface, five times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish, very small; twenty-six to twenty-eight on the radius of the disk. (The pores of the small medullary shell are regularly circular, of the same size as those of the disk.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.04, of the pores 0.002.

Subgenus 2. Sethodisculus, Haeckel.

Haliomma radians, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xix. fig. 50.

Haliomma radiatum, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxi. fig. 54.

Disk with radiated surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; nine to ten on the radius of the disk, arranged in radial series (about forty), which are separated by smooth crests, not prominent on the smooth margin.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.03, of the pores 0.003.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary deposits of the Mediterranean, Greece, Sicily, Oran, &c.

Haliomma echinatum, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxvii. fig. 2.

Disk with radiated thorny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eleven to twelve on the radius of the disk, arranged in radial series (about sixty), which are separated by thorny crests, prominent a little on the dentated margin.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the medullary shell 0.06, of the pores 0.01.

Disk with radiated surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; sixteen to seventeen on the radius of the disk, arranged in radial series (about eighty), which are separated in the distal half by smooth elevated crests, strongly prominent on the dentated margin. (Very similar to Phacodiscus cristatus, Pl. 35, fig. 6, but with simple medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05, of the pores 0.005.

Genus 182. Phacodiscus,^[221] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with double medullary shell and simple margin of the circular disk, without surrounding equatorial girdle and without radial spines.

The genus Phacodiscus differs from the ancestral genus Sethodiscus only in the duplication of the medullary shell, and has therefore the same relation to it that Thecosphæra in the Sphæroidea exhibits to Carposphæra. Both former discoidal genera differ from the two latter spheroidal by the lenticular flattening of the cortical shell.

Subgenus 1. Phacodiscinus, Haeckel.

Disk with smooth surface, four and a half times as broad as the outer and fourteen times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; sixteen to eighteen on the radius of the disk. Margin of the lens very thick, truncated, nearly as broad as the outer medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.21, of the outer medullary shell 0.045, of the inner 0.015; pores 0.008.

Disk with smooth surface, three and a half times as broad as the outer, and ten times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; twelve to thirteen on the radius of the disk. Margin of the disk sharp, as in a biconvex lens.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the outer medullary shell 0.07, of the inner 0.025; pores 0.01.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Station 265, depth 2900 fathoms; fossil in Barbados.

Disk with thorny surface, five times as broad as the outer, and fifteen times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; twenty-two to twenty-four on the radius of the disk. Margin of the disk thick, rounded.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.45, of the outer medullary shell 0.09, of the inner 0.03; pores 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Phacodisculus, Haeckel.

Disk with spiny surface, four times as broad as the outer, and ten times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores irregularly roundish; fourteen to fifteen on the radius of the disk. Margin of the disk sharp, as in a biconvex lens.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.3, of the outer medullary shell 0.75, of the inner 0.03; pores 0.007.

Disk with radiated surface, four times as broad as the outer, and twelve times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; sixteen to eighteen on the radius of the disk; in the distal half disposed in sixty to seventy radial series, which are separated by prominent crests; the sharp margin therefore a little jagged.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.017; pores 0.006.

Genus 183. Periphæna,^[222] Ehrenberg, 1873 Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 246.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell, without radial spines, but with a solid equatorial girdle around the margin of the lenticular disk.

The genus Periphæna, founded by Ehrenberg in 1873 for the fossil Periphæna decora of Barbados, differs from its ancestral form Sethodiscus in the development of a very thin siliceous solid girdle around the margin of the lenticular disk; this girdle lies in the equatorial plane of the shell, and reappears in similar form in Perichlamydium among the Porodiscida, in Spongophacus among the Spongodiscida, and in Zonodiscus among the Cenodiscida.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; fourteen to sixteen on the radius of the disk. Girdle of the margin about half as broad as the radius of the medullary shell, in the distal half structureless, in the proximal half with seventy to eighty short radial ribs.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05, of the pores 0.005.

Periphæna decora, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 80, Taf. xxviii. fig. 6.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twenty to twenty-two on the radius of the disk, disposed in radial series. Girdle of the margin nearly as broad as the radius of the medullary shell, in the distal half structureless, in the proximal half with eighty to ninety short radial ribs.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the medullary shell 0.08, of the pores 0.06.

Disk with smooth surface, five times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; twenty-four to twenty-six on the radius of the disk, disposed in radial series, those in the distal half of the disk being separated by piercing radial beams. Girdle of the margin twice as broad as the radius of the medullary shell, in the whole breadth with one hundred and twenty to one hundred and thirty piercing radial ribs, the prolongations of the beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.3, of the medullary shell 0.06, of the pores 0.04.

Genus 184. Perizona,^[223] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with double medullary shell, without radial spines, but with a solid equatorial girdle around the margin of the lenticular disk.

The genus Perizona differs from its ancestral form Phacodiscus in the development of a thin solid siliceous girdle, lying in the equatorial plane around the margin of the disk. The two genera bear the same relation to each other that Periphæna bears to Sethodiscus. But in the two latter genera the spherical medullary shell is simple, in the two former double.

Disk with smooth surface, in the distal third radiated, four times as broad as the outer, and ten times is broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; thirteen to fourteen on the radius of the disk, in the marginal part separated by eighty to ninety prominent radial crests, which are prolonged into the proximal half of the solid girdle. Breadth of the girdle equal to that of the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the outer medullary shell 0.06, of the inner 0.025; pores 0.007.

Disk with smooth surface, six times as broad as the outer, and fifteen times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regularly circular; eighteen to twenty on the radius of the disk. Margin much thickened and truncated, abruptly separated in the equatorial circumference from the peripheral sharp margin of the solid girdle; breadth of the girdle equal to that of the outer medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the outer medullary shell 0.04, of the inner 0.015; pores 0.006.

Subfamily 2. Heliosestrida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with a constant number of radial spines on the margin of the disk (two, three, four, six, or eight), which are commonly regularly disposed (sometimes more or less irregularly).

Genus 185. Sethostylus,^[224] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell and with two radial spines on the margin of the disk, opposite in the equatorial axis.

The genus Sethostylus opens the series of the Heliosestrida or of those Phacodiscida in which a constant number of radial spines (two to eight) is more or less regularly disposed on the margin of the disk. All these marginal spines lie in the equatorial plane of the lens, and have in the same species a rather constant number and similar size, a certain form and disposition. Sometimes they incline more or less to irregular variations. In Sethostylus there are only two spines, opposite in the equatorial diameter of the lens; it corresponds to Stylocyclia among the Coccodiscida, and to Xiphodictya among the Porodiscida.

Subgenus 1. Sethostylium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Margin of the disk simple, smooth, without equatorial girdle and without a corona of marginal spines.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; nine to ten on the radius of the disk, in the outer rows cylindrical. Margin of the disk simple, smooth, thin, without peculiar equatorial girdle, radially striped by the prominent beams of the peripheral series of pores. Both marginal spines of equal size, pyramidal, sulcated, about as long as the radius of the disk and as broad at the base as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.13 to 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of both opposite spines 0.06 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.03 to 0.04.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; sixteen to eighteen on the radius of the disk. Margin of the disk simple, smooth, thick, without peculiar equatorial girdle. Both marginal spines cylindrical, about as long as the diameter of the disk, about twice as broad as a single pore. (Walls of the disk in the central part twice to three times as thick as in the peripheral part.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of both spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.008.

Subgenus 2. Heliostylus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Margin of the disk with a solid equatorial girdle or a corona of radial spines.

Heliostylus dentatus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxiv. fig. 1).

Disk with smooth surface, six times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eighteen to twenty on the radius of the disk. Margin of the disk with a broad solid equatorial girdle, which bears fifty to sixty strong conical teeth on the periphery; teeth about as long as the diameter of the medullary shell. Both opposite marginal spines cylindro-conical, about as long as the diameter of the disk, and as broad as the girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.3, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of both main spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.02.

Heliostylus serratus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxiv. fig. 2).

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; fourteen to sixteen on the radius of the disk. Margin with a broad solid equatorial girdle, which bears forty to fifty strong conical teeth on the periphery; teeth about as long as the radius of the medullary shell. Both opposite marginal spines spindle-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the disk, and as broad as the girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.3, of the medullary shell 0.075; length of both main spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to twelve on the radius of the disk. Margin with a broad solid equatorial girdle, which bears on the periphery six conical teeth, three on each half between the two main spines, which are cylindrical, longer than the diameter of the disk, and half as broad as the girdle. (This species can be derived from Heliosestrum, two opposite spines of the eight marginal spines being much stronger developed than the other six.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of both main spines 0.2, breadth 0.01.

Disk with spiny surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular roundish, with many unequal conical spines between them. Margin with an equatorial girdle, composed of three to four concentric series of conical radial spines, about as long as the radius of the medullary shell. Both main spines very large, cylindrical, longer than the diameter of the disk, and as broad as the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the main spines 0.3 or more, breadth 0.025.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados, Haeckel; living in the depths of the Equatorial Atlantic, Station 348, depth (2450) fathoms.

Genus 186. Phacostylus,^[225] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with double medullary shell and with two radial spines on the margin of the disk, opposite in the equatorial axis.

The genus Phacostylus differs from the foregoing Sethostylus by the duplication of the medullary shell, and bears the same relation to it as Phacodiscus does to Sethodiscus, or as Amphicyclia in the Coccodiscida does to Stylocyclia.

Subgenus 1. Phacostylium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Margin of the disk simple, smooth, without equatorial girdle, and without a corona of marginal spines.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the outer, and twelve times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twelve to fourteen on the radius of the disk. Margin of the disk simple, smooth, without spines and equatorial girdle. Both polar spines conical, longer than the diameter of the disk, furrowed at the base, and twice as broad as the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16 to 0.18, of the outer medullary shell 0.045, of the inner 0.015; length of the polar spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer, and eight times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to eleven on the radius. Margin of the disk {431}simple, smooth, without spines and equatorial girdle. Both polar spines sword-shaped triangular, two-edged, about as long as the radius of the disk, and as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.02; length of the polar spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Astrostylus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Margin of the disk with a solid equatorial girdle or a corona of radial spines.

Disk with spiny surface, four and a half times as broad as the outer, and fourteen times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to ten on the radius. Margin of the disk with a corona of irregular, radial spines. Both opposite polar spines pyramidal, twice as long as broad, and nearly as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.22, of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.016; length of the polar spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.05.

Astrosestrum caudatum, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxii. fig. 6).

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the outer, and six times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; six to seven on the radius of the disk. Margin with a solid equatorial girdle, and irregularly bordered with eight to ten conical spines; two opposite of these are much longer than the others. (This species can be derived from Astrosestrum, two opposite marginal spines being much more strongly developed than the six to eight others.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of disk 0.12, of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.02; length of the polar spines 0.1 to 0.25, basal breadth 0.025.

Disk with smooth surface, five times as broad as the outer, and ten times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twenty to twenty-two on the radius. Margin with a solid equatorial girdle, bearing on the periphery one hundred to one hundred and twenty plain teeth, and two very large polar spines, which are cylindrical, longer than the diameter of the disk, and as broad at the furrowed base as the radius of the outer medullary shell. (Similar to Sethostylus dentatus, Pl. 34, fig. 1, but much larger, and with a double medullary shell.) {432}Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.4, of the outer medullary shell 0.08, of the inner 0.04; length of the polar spines 0.5, basal breadth 0.04.

Genus 187. Triactiscus,^[226] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell, and with three radial spines on the margin of the disk, placed in the equatorial plane.

The genus Triactiscus exhibits on the margin of the lenticular phacoid shell three radial solid spines, the distance between which is sometimes equal, at other times unequal. Either all the three spines are of equal size and similar form, or one odd arm is smaller than the two paired arms. The triradial form of this genus is repeated in Tripodocyclia among the Coccodiscida, and in Tripodictya among the Porodiscida. The medullary shell of Triactiscus is simple.

Disk with smooth surface and smooth margin, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twelve to thirteen on the radius of the disk. Three radial spines of nearly equal size and equidistant, or one odd spine a little smaller, and the opposite angle (between the paired spines) also smaller. Spines pyramidal, with broad prominent edges, one to one and a half times as long as the radius of the disk, as broad at the base as the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15; of the medullary shell 0.05, pores 0.006.

Disk with smooth surface and smooth margin, five times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to eleven on the radius of the disk. Three radial spines of unequal size and at unequal distances, very short, conical, not longer than the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.03; pores 0.004 to 0.008.

Haliomma triactis, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 236, Taf. xxviii. fig, 4.

Disk with thorny surface and spiny margin, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eight to nine on the radius of the disk. Three radial spines of different {433}size and at unequal distances, one odd spine as long as the radius, both paired spines as long as the diameter of the disk; the odd angle between the latter is smaller. Spines pyramidal, with broad edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.05, pores 0.008.

Genus 188. Sethostaurus,^[227] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell and with four radial spines on the margin of the disk, crossed in the equatorial plane.

The genus Sethostaurus exhibits four marginal spines, which form commonly a more or less regular cross in the equatorial plane. Sometimes the size and disposition of the four spines become more or less different, and also the angles between them vary; the regular rectangular cross passes over into a bilateral or irregular form. The medullary shell is simple. The same cross-form of the disk is seen in Staurocyclia among the Coccodiscida, and in Staurodictya among the Porodiscida.

Subgenus 1. Sethostaurium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Margin of the disk without a solid equatorial girdle or a corona of spines.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; thirteen to fourteen on the radius of the disk. Margin simple, smooth, without girdle. Four crossed spines equal, pommel-shaped, angular, contracted at the base, scarcely as long as the diameter of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the crossed spines 0.04, breadth 0.02.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; seven to eight on the radius. Margin simple, smooth, without girdle. Four crossed spines subregular, equal, conical, about as long as the diameter and as broad at the base as the radius of the medullary shell. (Fig. 7 exhibits the normal form, fig. 8 an abnormality with five spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the crossed spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; ten to eleven on the radius. Margin simple, smooth, without girdle. Two opposite spines longer than the diameter of the disk, four times as long as the two others, which only equal its radius. Spines sword-shaped, angular.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.14, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the major spines 0.2, of the minor 0.05, breadth 0.025.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to nine on the radius. Margin simple, smooth, without girdle. Four spines cylindrical, irregularly curved, of different sizes; one single very large, much longer than the three others; two opposite lateral spines recurved, hook-shaped.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the major spine 0.32, of the opposite spine 0.16, of both lateral spines 0.08.

Subgenus 2. Heliostaurus, Haeckel 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Margin of the disk with a solid equatorial girdle or a corona of spines.

Heliostaurus cruciatus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxi. fig. 5).

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eleven to twelve on the radius. Margin with a solid, radially striped girdle, which bears on the periphery forty to fifty triangular pointed teeth of unequal length. Four crossed spines of equal size and similar form, pyramidal, sulcated, about as long as the radius of the disk, as broad at the base as the girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the crossed spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Disk with spiny surface, twice as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; nine to ten on the radius. Margin of the disk with a solid broad girdle, bearing on the periphery a corona of thirty to forty flat tongue-shaped teeth of different length. Four crossed spines {435}prismatic with prominent edges, about as long as the diameter of the disk, and as broad as the girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.08, length of the crossed spines 0.18, breadth 0.02.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twenty to twenty-two on the radius. Margin of the disk with a narrow solid girdle, bearing on the periphery one hundred to one hundred and twenty slender flat pointed teeth. Four crossed spines equal, conical, about as long as the radius of the disk, as broad at their furrowed base as the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.4, of the medullary shell 0.1; length of the crossed spines 0.5, basal breadth 0.05.

Genus 189. Phacostaurus,^[228] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with double medullary shell and with four radial spines on the margin of the disk, crossed in the equatorial plane.

The genus Phacostaurus differs from the foregoing Sethostaurus by the duplication of the medullary shell, and bears to it the same relation as Phacodiscus does to Sethodiscus. Also in this genus the cross of the shell is commonly regular, rectangular, sometimes more or less irregular.

Subgenus 1. Phacostaurium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Margin of the disk without a solid equatorial girdle or a corona of spines.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and eight times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eleven to twelve on the diameter of the disk. Margin smooth. Four crossed spines pyramidal, deeply sulcate, about as long as the diameter of the outer medullary shell, and two-thirds as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.02; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Astrostaurus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Margin of the disk with a solid equatorial girdle, or a corona of spines.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the outer and ten times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; fifteen to sixteen on the diameter of the disk. Margin with a broad solid equatorial girdle, from which arise four crossed spines, conical, as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.02; length of the spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.03.

Astrostaurus magnificus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxi. figs.7, 8).

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and nine times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; thirteen to fourteen on the diameter of the disk. Margin with a corona of fifty to sixty conical spines of unequal length. Four spines of the cross very large pyramidal, deeply sulcated, longer than the radius of the disk, and as broad at the base as the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.22, of the outer medullary shell 0.07, of the inner 0.025; length of the four spines 0.16, basal breadth 0.04.

Genus 190. Distriactis,^[229] n. gen.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell and with six radial spines on the margin of the disk placed in the equatorial plane.

The genus Distriactis exhibits on the margin of the lenticular phacoid shell six radial solid spines. Their distance is commonly equal, rarely unequal. Either all six spines are of equal size and similar form, or three larger (perradial) alternating with three smaller (interradial), so that Distriactis appears to be derived from Triactiscus by development of three secondary between three primary spines.

Disk smooth, four times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular pores (about ten on the radius). Six marginal spines of equal size and at equal distances, triangular, sulcate, half as long as the radius. (Similar to Heliosestrum medusinum, Pl. 34, fig. 6.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.04.

Disk thorny, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with regular, circular pores, about eight on the radius. Six marginal spines of equal size and equidistant, conical, nearly as long as the diameter of the disk, half as broad at the base as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the spines 0.1, breadth 0.02.

Disk smooth, five times as broad as the medullary shell, about twelve pores on the radius. Six marginal spines pyramidal, at equal distances, but unequal alternating size; three larger (perradial) spines as long as the shell radius, three smaller between them (interradial) half as long and broad.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the three major spines 0.08, of the three minor 0.05.

Disk rough, four times as broad as the medullary shell, about ten pores on the radius. Six marginal spines conical, at equal distances, but unequal alternating size; three larger (perradial) spines as long as the shell diameter, three smaller between them (interradial) as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the three major spines 0.2, of the three minor 0.1,

Disk thorny, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Six marginal spines conical, of very different size; one single (anterior) much larger than the five others, the opposite (posterior) much smaller. The other four spines are paired, the anterior pair larger than the posterior.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the longest spine 0.2, of the shortest 0.04, of the anterior pair 0.1, of the posterior 0.07.

Genus 191. Heliosestrum,^[230] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell and with eight radial spines on the margin of the disk (more or less regularly disposed, sometimes seven or nine).

The genus Heliosestrum (with simple medullary shell) and the following Astrosestrum (with double medullary shell) contain those Phacodiscida in which the margin of the lenticular disk bears eight radial spines, commonly more or less regularly disposed in the equatorial plane, so that the equal angles between them amount to 45°. There are, however, many exceptions to this regular eight-rayed form, either the angles between the eight spines becoming unequal or the number of the spines amounting to seven or nine (sometimes also six or ten) in one and the same species. But the regular form is as prevalent, and also in the abnormal forms indicated by the position of the spines, that we separate the genus Heliosestrum from Heliodiscus. Both genera are rich in common species, and in some of the former four perradial (larger) spines alternate regularly with four interradial (smaller) spines.

Subgenus 1. Heliosestantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, not connected by an equatorial girdle.

Heliodiscus medusinus, Haeckel, 1881, Atlas (pl. xxxiv. fig. 6).

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; about ten on the radius of the disk. Eight marginal spines regularly distributed (sometimes seven or nine, more or less irregular), angular, nearly pyramidal (with equilateral triangular outline), about as long and broad as the diameter of the medullary shell, without connecting equatorial girdle. From the broad base of each spine run eight to ten deep furrows convergent to its apex.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.05.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to nine on the radius. Eight marginal spines regularly distributed (sometimes {439}seven or nine, more or less irregular), conical, about as long as the diameter of the disk, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.16, basal breadth 0.01.

Haliomma sol (partim), Ehrenberg, 1875 (non 1844), Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxviii. fig. 1.

Surface of the disk smooth; its diameter six times as large as that of the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; nine to ten on the radius. Eight marginal spines regularly distributed (sometimes seven or nine, more or less irregular), conical, about as long as the diameter of the medullary shell, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the radial spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.01.

Surface of the disk smooth; its diameter four times as large as that of the medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; seven to eight on the radius. Eight marginal spines regularly distributed, conical, compressed, alternating longer and shorter; the longer equal to the diameter of the disk, the shorter to the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.4; length of the major radial spines 0.15, of the minor 0.09.

Surface of the disk smooth; its diameter four times as large as that of the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; six to seven on the radius. Eight marginal spines triangular, flat, regularly disposed, alternating longer and shorter, the major as long as the radius of the shell, and half as broad at the base, with three to four deep furrows on both sides, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the larger radial spines 0.08, of the smaller 0.04, basal breadth 0.04.

Haliomma contiguum, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxvii. fig. 5.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish, touching, with very thin bars; nine to ten on the radius. Eight marginal spines (often {440}seven or nine) conical, half as long as the radius, twice as long as broad, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.17, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the radial spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; nine to eleven on the radius. Eight conical radial spines of irregular size and distribution, often seven or nine, about as long as the radius of the disk (in some cases longer, in others shorter). No connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Heliosestilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk armed with radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores circular, of very different sizes; eight to ten on the radius. Eight conical marginal spines of equal size and equidistant, as long as the radius of the disk, and one-third as broad at the base as the medullary shell. Numerous spines on the surface bristle-shaped, on the margin half as long as the eight main spines, in the central part shorter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the marginal spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.02.

Disk with spiny surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish, of different sizes; twelve to fourteen on the radius. Eight pyramidal marginal spines regularly disposed, four larger (perradial) alternating with four smaller (interradial); the former as long as the radius of the disk, the latter half as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the marginal spines 0.05 to 0.1, basal breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 3. Heliosestomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines connected by a solid equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface, octagonal, twice as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; nine to ten on the radius. Equatorial girdle narrow, radially striped, connecting the points of the eight short, regularly disposed, marginal spines in such a manner that the whole shell forms a regular octagon with rectilinear sides.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.11 to 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.05 to 0.06; length of the sides of the octagon 0.06.

Disk with smooth surface, octagonal, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to nine on the radius. Equatorial girdle broad, smooth, connecting the points of the eight short, triangular, flat marginal spines in such a manner that the whole shell forms a subregular octagon with concave, nearly equal sides. (Sometimes seven or nine spines instead of eight are developed.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16 to 0.18, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.02 to 0.04, basal breadth 0.03.

Haliomma humboldti, var., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. viii. fig. 4 (below).

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; ten to twelve on the radius. Eight marginal spines (sometimes seven or nine) triangular, deeply sulcated, half as long and one-third as broad as the radius of the disk, connected by a narrow, radially striped equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the radial spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Stations 271 to 274, at various depths, also fossil in Barbados.

Genus 192. Astrosestrum,^[231] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with double medullary shell and with eight radial spines on the margin of the disk (more or less regularly disposed, sometimes seven or nine).

The genus Astrosestrum differs from the foregoing Heliosestrum by the duplication of the medullary shell. The eight marginal spines in the majority of individuals are regularly formed and disposed, of equal size and equidistant. But there are frequent exceptions to this rule, either the angles between the eight spines being more or less different, or the number amounting to seven or nine, instead of eight. Here also in some species four larger (perradial) spines alternate regularly with four smaller (interradial spines), after the same law of symmetry, which is common in the Medusæ.

Subgenus 1. Astrosestantha, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, not connected by an equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and nine times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; seven to eight on the radius of the disk. Eight marginal spines (sometimes seven or nine) more or less irregularly disposed, of variable size, commonly as long as the radius of the disk, twice as long as broad, pyramidal, sulcate, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12, of outer medullary shell 0.04, of the inner 0.014; length of the marginal spines 0.05 to 0.07, basal breadth 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the outer and five times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eight to nine on the radius of the disk. Eight marginal spines (often seven or nine) more or less regularly disposed, of equal size, half as long as the radius of the disk, and quite as broad at the base, compressed triangular, sulcate, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the outer medullary shell 0.06, of the inner 0.03; length of the marginal spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 266 to 268, depth 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Haliomma octacanthum, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 295, Taf. viii. fig. 11.

Disk with smooth surface, twice as broad as the outer and six times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; six to seven on the radius of the disk. Eight marginal spines {443}regularly disposed, of variable size, the longest as long as the radius, pyramidal, not broader at the base than one pore, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12, of the outer medullary shell 0.06, inner 0.02; length of the marginal spines 0.03 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.01.

Habitat.—Western Pacific, Philippine Sea, 3300 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 225, depth 4475 fathoms.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and six times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; nine to ten on the radius of the disk. Eight marginal spines regularly disposed, of alternating size; four major (perradial) spines as long as the diameter of the disk, four minor (interradial) half as long; spines cylindrical, not broader at the base than one pore, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.07, of the inner 0.035; length of the larger spines 0.2, of the smaller 0.1, basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Astrosestilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk covered with radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, not connected by an equatorial girdle.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the outer and nine times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; ten to eleven on the radius. Eight marginal spines (sometimes seven or nine) regularly disposed, triangular, about half as long as the radius of the disk, and one-third as broad at the base, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the outer medullary shell 0.06, of the inner 0.02; length of the radial spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Gulf Stream, Færöe Channel, surface, John Murray.

Disk with spiny surface, twice as broad as the outer and four times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to nine on the radius. Eight marginal spines more or less regularly disposed, pyramidal, nearly as long as the radius of the disk, and not broader at the base than one large pore, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the outer medullary shell 0.07, of the inner 0.04; length of the radial spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 3. Astrosestomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines connected by a solid equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and eight times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eight to nine on the radius. Eight marginal spines conical, about as long as the radius of the disk, of nearly equal length, one-third as broad at the base, connected by a radially striped equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the outer medullary shell 0.06, of the inner 0.023; length of the radial spines 0.09, basal breadth 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the outer and five times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to eleven on the radius. Eight marginal spines triangular, plain, scarcely half as long as the radius of the disk, nearly as broad at the base, connected by an even equatorial girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.08, of the inner 0.04; length of the radial spines 0.09, basal breadth 0.07.

Subfamily 3. Heliodiscida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with a variable number of radial spines on the margin of the disk (ten to twenty or more), which are commonly more or less irregular (sometimes regularly formed and disposed).

Genus 193. Heliodiscus,^[232] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 436.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell and with numerous (ten to twenty or more) simple radial spines on the margin of the disk (commonly with a variable number and an irregular disposition of the undivided spines).

The genus Heliodiscus, the most common and polymorphic of all Phacodiscida, was founded by me in 1862 as the first known type of this family (loc. cit.). I use {445}here the diagnosis of this genus in a restricted sense, including only the species, in which the number of marginal spines amounts to ten, twenty, or more (sometimes fifty to eighty, rarely more than one hundred). The number of spines is in the different species variable, and their disposition commonly more or less irregular, whilst in the preceding genera (with two, three, four, six, or eight marginal spines) their distance and form are commonly regular.

Subgenus 1. Heliodiscetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; ten to twelve on the radius of the disk. Marginal spines fifteen to twenty, conical, often double contoured, of variable size and disposition, the largest as long as the radius of the disk, as broad at the base as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.04 to 0.07, basal breadth 0.01.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean (Corfu), Indian Ocean (Madagascar), Atlantic and Pacific, many Stations, surface and various depths.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; fourteen to sixteen on the radius. Marginal spines twelve to sixteen, conical, of variable size and disposition, the largest as long as the diameter of the medullary shell, twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.01 to 0.025, basal breadth 0.005.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eighteen to twenty on the radius. Marginal spines sixteen to twenty, equilateral triangular, flat, smooth, about as long and broad as the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.03.

Heliosestrum glyphodon, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxv. fig. 2).

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; seven to eight on the radius. Marginal spines ten to twelve, equilateral triangular, flat, deeply furrowed, twice as long as broad, and as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.14, of the medullary shell 0.035; length of the radial spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.035.

Haliomma helianthus, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxvii. fig. 1.

Disk with smooth surface, five times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, oblong, disposed regularly in sixty to eighty radial series; fourteen to sixteen on the radius. Marginal spines sixty to eighty, conical, about as long as the diameter of the medullary shell, twice as broad as one pore.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the radial spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.005.

Haliomma sol, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xix. fig. 52.

Heliodiscus sol, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 438.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to ten on the radius. Marginal spines twenty to thirty, conical, the largest as long as the radius of the medullary shell, their bases widely distant. (The species from Barbados figured by Ehrenberg, 1875, as Haliomma sol, appertains to Heliosestrum solare.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.02 to 0.025, basal breadth 0.01.

Heliodiscus siculus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 89, Taf. i. fig. 14.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular roundish; seven to eight on the radius. Marginal spines forty to fifty, conical, very irregular, the largest as long as the radius of the medullary shell, their bases coming in contact.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.13 to 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.02 to 0.03, basal breadth 0.002 to 0.006.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily, Grotte (Stöhr), Caltanisetta (Teuscher).

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to twelve on the radius. Marginal spines ten to fifteen, pyramidal, angular, very irregular and variable in size and distribution, the largest nearly as long as the diameter of the disk, as broad at the base as the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15 to 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.06 to 0.18, basal breadth 0.02 to 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores subregular, roundish; nine to ten on the radius. Marginal spines fifty to sixty, cylindro-conical, flexuose, very variable in size, the largest nearly as long as the diameter of the disk. The spines lie not only in the equatorial plane (as usual), but also in two to four crowded girdles on both sides of it.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.05 to 0.15, basal breadth 0.008.

Subgenus 2. Heliodiscilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk covered with radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Heliodiscus phacodiscus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 437, Taf. xvii. figs. 5-7.

Haliomma phacodiscus, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 815.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; six to eight on the radius. Marginal spines twelve to sixteen, conical, as long as the radius of the disk, and one-third as broad as the diameter of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12 to 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the marginal spines 0.06 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.02.

Heliodiscus amphidiscus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 437.

Haliomma amphidiscus, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 154, Taf. ii. figs. 3-7.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eight to ten on the radius. Marginal spines twelve to fifteen, bristle-shaped, not larger than the surface spines, about as long as the radius of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the marginal spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.002.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish or polygonal; eight to ten on the radius. Marginal spines thirty to fifty, pyramidal, angular, of very variable size, number, and disposition, gradually passing into the surface-spines; the largest nearly as long as the diameter of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.14, of the medullary shell 0.045; length of the radial spines 0.02 to 0.04, basal breadth 0.006.

Heliosestrum pertusum, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxv. fig. 1).

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, circular, hexagonally framed; eight to ten on the radius. Marginal spines ten to thirty, very variable in size and disposition; commonly eight to twelve larger spines, which are pyramidal, about as long as the radius of the disk and perforated by two to four irregular, longish pores. Between these fenestrated large spines are commonly ten to twenty smaller conical spines, gradually passing into those of the surface.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.13 to 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the marginal spines 0.04 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.015.

Subgenus 3. Heliodiscomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines connected by a solid equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface, five times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twelve to fourteen on the radius. Equatorial girdle about as broad as the medullary shell, in the proximal half radially striped, on the margin with twenty to twenty-four short, flat, triangular spines, which are shorter than the breadth of the girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the marginal spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.02.

Heliodiscus humboldti, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 438.

Haliomma humboldti, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvi. fig. 27; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, Taf. xxvii. fig. 3.

Haliomma humboldti, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. viii. fig. 3 (at left).

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eighteen to twenty on the radius. Equatorial girdle half as broad as the medullary shell, in the proximal half radially striped, on the margin with sixteen to twenty short, flat, triangular teeth, which are longer than the breadth of the girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12 to 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.03 to 0.05; length of the marginal spines 0.02 to 0.04, basal breadth 0.02.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; nine to ten on the radius. Equatorial girdle one-fourth to one-half as broad as the medullary shell, in the whole breadth radially striped, on the margin with twelve to eighteen very short and broad, triangular, marginal spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15 to 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05 to 0.06; length of the marginal spines 0.01 to 0.02, basal breadth 0.02.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; twelve to fifteen on the radius. Equatorial girdle as broad as the medullary shell, in the whole breadth radially striped on the margin with ten to fifteen triangular, deeply sulcated teeth, about as long and broad as the medullary shell. (Similar to Heliodiscus glyphodon, Pl. 35, fig. 2, but with broad sulcated girdle and shorter, more numerous spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15 to 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05; length of the radial spines 0.05 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.04 to 0.05.

Haliomma umbonatum, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxvii. fig. 4.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to ten on the radius. Equatorial girdle half as broad as the medullary shell, hyaline, not radially striped, on the margin with ten to twenty triangular, irregular, smooth teeth, very variable in size and disposition.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15 to 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05 to 0.06; length of the marginal spines 0.02 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.03.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Atlantic, Pacific, in various depths; also fossil in Barbados and Sicily.

Subgenus 4. Heliodiscura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk covered with radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines connected by a solid equatorial girdle.

Disk with spiny or bristly surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eleven to twelve on the radius. Equatorial girdle narrow, on the margin with sixteen to twenty broad, flat, triangular teeth, which are half as long and one-fourth as broad as the medullary shell. (Very similar to Astrophacus apollinis, Pl. 32, fig. 2, but with simple medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the marginal spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.015.

Disk with spiny surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; fourteen to sixteen on the radius. Equatorial girdle broad, radially striped, on the margin with ten to twelve pyramidal, deeply sulcated radial spines, which are nearly as long as the radius of the disk, and one-fourth as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.24, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the marginal spines 0.11, basal breadth 0.03.

Genus 194. Heliodrymus,^[233] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with simple medullary shell and with numerous (ten to twenty or more) branched radial spines on the margin of the disk (commonly with a variable number and an irregular disposition of the ramified spines).

The genus Heliodrymus differs from the nearly allied Heliodiscus by the ramification of the marginal spines, a character hitherto observed in no other genus of Phacodiscida. The branching is more or less irregular, either a simple bifurcation or a repeated fissure; the spines and their branches are commonly more or less flexuose. {451}We can distinguish two subgenera: in Heliocladus the surface of the disk is smooth, in Heliodendrum covered with bristle-shaped radial spines, which are either simple or also branched, sometimes longer than the thick marginal spines.

Subgenus 1. Heliocladus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Heliocladus dendrocyclus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xxxiii. fig. 9).

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed; eight to nine on the radius. Marginal spines sixteen to twenty, cylindrical, very strong, flexuose, irregularly branched, nearly as long as the diameter of the disk. Between these main spines, each of which bears two to six irregular branches, are scattered on the margin numerous smaller simple spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the main spines 0.1 to 0.14, breadth 0.01 to 0.02.

Disk with smooth surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to twelve on the radius. Marginal spines twenty to twenty-five, cylindrical, flexuose, forked, about as long as the radius of the disk; fork-branches irregular, of unequal size. Some smaller simple spines are scattered between the forked ones.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the radial spines 0.07 to 0.09, breadth 0.01.

Heliodiscus grottensis, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 89, Taf. i. fig. 13.

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; eight to nine on the radius. Marginal spines twenty to thirty, conical, very irregular in form, size, and disposition; the smaller simple, the larger irregularly branched and half as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.17, of the medullary shell 0.07; length of the marginal spines 0.02 to 0.04, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Heliodendrum, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk armed with simple or branched radial spines.

Disk with spiny surface, four times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twelve to thirteen on the radius. Marginal spines ten to twelve, cylindrical, irregularly branched, each with two to eight flexuose branches of different sizes; the largest as long as the diameter of the disk. Spines of the surface bristle-shaped, half as long, not branched.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the marginal spines 0.12 to 0.18, breadth 0.025.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed; eleven to twelve on the radius. Marginal spines sixteen to twenty, cylindrical, about as long as the radius, irregularly forked or branched, with unequal flexuose branches. Spines of the surface nearly as long, bristle-shaped, also irregularly branched.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the spines 0.06 to 0.08, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.015.

Disk with spiny surface, two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to twelve on the radius. Marginal spines fifteen to twenty, cylindro-conical, strong, partly simple, partly forked, about as long as the diameter of the disk. Spines of the surface very numerous, bristle-shaped, longer than the marginal spines, and more branched.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.06; length of the marginal spines 0.11 to 0.14, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.015; length of the surface spines 0.2 to 0.03.

Genus 195. Astrophacus,^[234] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 457.

Definition.—Phacodiscida with double medullary shell and with numerous (ten to twenty or more) simple radial spines on the margin of the disk (commonly with a variable number and an irregular disposition of the undivided spines).

The genus Astrophacus differs from the similar Heliodiscus in the duplication of the medullary shell. The number and disposition of the radial spines of the margin {453}(commonly between ten and twenty) is also here variable in one and the same species. The greater number of observed species of Astrophacus resemble in a very remarkable manner the corresponding species of Heliodiscus, and differ only in the double medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Astrophacetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and eight times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; twelve to fourteen on the radius. Marginal spines fifteen to twenty, of variable size and disposition; the largest as long as the radius of the disk, as broad at the base as one pore. (Very similar to Heliodiscus asteriscus, Pl. 33, fig. 8, but differing in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.07, of the inner 0.025; length of the marginal spines 0.05 to 0.1, basal breadth 0.01.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and seven times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish; twelve to thirteen on the radius. Marginal spines sixteen to twenty, conical, of irregular variable size and disposition; the largest as long as the inner medullary shell. (Differs from Heliodiscus trochiscus in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.22, of the outer medullary shell 0.08, of the inner 0.03.

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and seven times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores subregular, roundish; twelve to fourteen on the radius. Marginal spines one hundred to one hundred and twenty, conical, flexuose, of irregular size and form; the largest one-third as long as the diameter of the disk. The spines lie not only in the equatorial plane (as is usual) but also in two to four crowded girdles on both sides of it. (Very similar to Heliodiscus solaster, Pl. 34, fig. 4, but of double the size, with double the number of spines and with a double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.3, of the outer medullary shell 0.11, of the inner 0.045; length of the spines 0.03 to 0.1, basal breadth 0.01 to 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Astrophacilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk covered with radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines free, without a connecting equatorial girdle.

Disk with spiny surface, two and a half times as broad as the outer and seven times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores subregular, circular; ten to twelve on the radius. Marginal spines twelve to sixteen, conical, stout, nearly as long as the radius of the disk, and as broad at the base as the inner medullary shell. The numerous bristle-shaped spines of the surface are scarcely half as long. (Similar to Heliodiscus phacodiscus, Haeckel, Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xvii. figs. 5-7, but differing in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18, of the outer medullary shell 0.07, of the inner 0.025; length of the marginal spines 0.08 to 0.09, basal breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 3. Astrophacomma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk smooth, without radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines connected by a solid equatorial girdle. (Perhaps = Chilomma(?) Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.)

Haliomma humboldti, var., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. viii. fig. 3 (at right).

Disk with smooth surface, three times as broad as the outer and eight times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eleven to thirteen on the radius. Equatorial girdle about as broad as the inner medullary shell, in the proximal half radially striped, on the margin with eighteen to twenty-four short, flat, triangular spines, about as long as the breadth of the girdle. (Similar to Heliodiscus cingillum, but with double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.07, of the inner 0.025; length of the spines 0.02, basal breadth 0.02.

Habitat.—Western Tropical Pacific, Station 225, depth 4475 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

? Chilomma saturnus, Ehrenberg, 1861, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 297; 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 286, Taf. ii. fig. 5.

? Chilomma saturnus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 447.

Disk with smooth surface, two and a half times as broad as the outer, six times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores large, irregular, roundish; five to seven on the radius (?). Equatorial girdle very broad, radially striped, nearly as broad as the outer medullary shell, perforated by {455}twenty to thirty (or more?) radial spines. (The position of this species, and the identity of Chilomma with Astrophacomma, remains doubtful, as the imperfect figure given by Ehrenberg of Chilomma saturnus, the only species of the genus, is in contradiction with his vague description, as is very often the case.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12 (with girdle 0.22) of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.02.

Subgenus 4. Astrophacura, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the disk covered with radial spines. Bases of the marginal spines connected by a solid equatorial girdle.

Disk with spiny surface, three times as broad as the outer, eight times as broad as the inner medullary shell. Pores regular, circular; eleven to twelve on the radius of the disk. Equatorial girdle narrow, smooth, on the margin with twelve to sixteen broad, flat, triangular spines, of the same length as the numerous bristle-shaped spines of the surface, which reach half the radius of the disk. (Very similar to Heliodiscus apollinis, but differing in the double medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.24, of the outer medullary shell 0.08, of the inner 0.03; length of the radial spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.03.

Family XX. Coccodiscida, Haeckel (Pls. 36-38).

Coccodiscida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 485.

Coccodiscida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Lithocyclidina, Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad.

d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 214 (partim).

Definition.—Discoidea with extracapsular phacoid shell (or lenticular latticed cortical shell), connected by radial beams with an intracapsular, simple or double, concentric medullary shell, and surrounded by one or more concentric chambered equatorial girdles on the margin.

The family Coccodiscida was founded by me in 1862 for those Discoidea which agree with the Phacodiscida in the formation of the lenticular "phacoid shell" (including a simple or double medullary shell), but differ from them in the development of peculiar concentric chambered rings or girdles around the equatorial margin of the disk, similar to those of the Porodiscida.

The Coccodiscida represent a polymorphic family, in which we here distinguish sixteen genera with fifty-seven species; it comprises the greater part of those {456}Discoidea which Ehrenberg united in his group Lithocyclidina (1875, represented by four genera and eight species); several of these, however, appertain to quite different families, as his Astromma entomocora, Lithocyclia amphitrites, &c. His knowledge of the structure was very imperfect. The peculiar differentiation of the genera and species exhibits the greatest analogy to that of the following family, Porodiscida, though the structure of the central disk in both families is quite different.

The Phacoid Shell, or the circular, lenticular cortical shell exhibits in the Coccodiscida quite the same structure and composition as in the Phacodiscida, described above (p. 420), so that there can be no doubt as to the phylogenetic origin of the former from the latter. Quite in the same way in both families, the lenticular "phacoid shell" is connected by numerous, short, radial beams with the intracapsular, simple or double, medullary shell; and also here these beams are commonly disposed in two groups around the poles of the shortened main axis of the lens, so that their distal ends are implanted in both circumpolar areas (Pl. 36, figs. 2-6; Pl. 37, figs. 3, 7; Pl. 38, figs. 2, 7). The medullary shell is commonly simple, spherical, sometimes a little lenticularly compressed; more rarely it is double, composed of two concentric lattice-shells, which are connected by radial beams; in this case either both concentric medullary shells are spherical, or the inner is spherical, and the outer lenticular, very rarely the inner is lenticular also. In average size and structure they agree perfectly with those of the Phacodiscida.

The Chamber Girdles or "chambered rings" around the equatorial margin of the disk, which constitute the only difference between the Coccodiscida and the Phacodiscida, seem to exhibit a considerable degree of difference of structure in the numerous species of this family; but I regret that I cannot explain them here satisfactorily. The study of these structures is extremely difficult because of the thickness and darkness of the massive opaque shells; to get a perfect knowledge of them, it is indispensable to compare slides made in different directions (horizontal slides through the equatorial and parallel planes, vertical slides through radial and parallel planes, oblique slides in different directions). But this requires a long time and a most careful study of the slides, which are very difficult to get in satisfactory condition. Therefore the following remarks can have only a provisional value.

In all Coccodiscida we can distinguish on the equatorial chamber-girdle of the lens-margin (even on superficial inspection) three different elements of structure, viz.:—(A) concentric circular rings in the equatorial plane; (B) numerous radial beams piercing the former and dividing them into imperfect chambers; (C) porous plates or sieve-plates on both convex faces of the disk. The probable morphological significance of these three elements is the following:—Each ring or girdle corresponds to an outer lenticular cortical shell, which is only developed on the marginal part, whilst its central part is represented by the phacoid shell. Therefore the radial beams (separating the imperfect chambers) are the same as in the concentric Polysphærida, and the {457}sieve-plates of the surface are the porous walls of the cortical shell itself. The correctness of this explanation seems to be proved by such forms as figured in Pl. 38, figs. 2, 4, where the whole surface of the phacoid shell is covered by a concentric chamber-work, as a central continuation of the marginal concentric rings. If we imagine a system of perfect concentric lenticular phacoid shells, compressed strongly from both poles of the shortened main axis, we get the same figure.

Rarely one single girdle only is developed on the equatorial margin of the lenticular disk (Pl. 37, figs. 2, 3, 5). Commonly the number of concentric girdles amounts to three to six, often to ten to twelve or more. Some of these largest Coccodiscida reach a considerable size. Commonly all girdles are of the same breadth, which is about equal to the radius or to the diameter of the inner medullary shell. Rarely the first (or innermost) girdle differs by its greater breadth from the succeeding ones (Pl. 36, fig. 8).

Only in few Coccodiscida the girdle-building remains restricted to the equatorial planes, so that all the chambers lie in it. Commonly on both sides of this plane become developed several layers, and often the number of these (three to six or more) increases towards the periphery; in other cases not their number, but their height increases. Therefore very often the margin of the discoidal shell is much thickened, as thick as the centre of the lenticular phacoid shell (or even more); whilst between the latter and the former (on the proximal girdles) the disk is considerably thinner (Pl. 36, figs. 2, 4; Pl. 37, figs. 7, 8; Pl. 38, figs. 2, 4). The stratified layers communicate by large openings between their chambers. The radial beams are commonly more or less regular and piercing, but also frequently irregular and interrupted; often their number increases towards the margin by intercalation of new beams.

The Pores of the sieve-plates, which cover both sides of the chambered disk, appear on the margin of the phacoid shell as direct continuations of the pores of the latter, and sometimes they are so regularly disposed that one single circular pore is situated on the surface of each chamber (Pl. 36, fig. 7; Pl. 37, fig. 1). But commonly the pores are of variable size and number, two to three on each chamber, and often quite irregularly scattered.

The Margin of the chambered disk exhibits many differences, which afford characters for the distinction of genera. In the first subfamily, the Lithocyclida, the margin is quite simple without radial appendages. In the second subfamily, the Stylocyclida, it is armed with solid radial spines lying in the equatorial plane, and often regularly disposed in the same manner as in the Phacodiscida (compare above, p. 421). In the third subfamily, the Astracturida, the margin bears two or more (commonly three or four) chambered arms, also situated in the plane of the disk, and of the same structure as the circular chambered girdles (Pl. 38). In some cases even the whole system of chamber-girdles is represented only by the radial arms, which are inserted immediately on the margin of the phacoid shell. We may regard therefore these formations as imperfect chambered disks, which are developed only in the direction of certain rays {458}(perradii), and reduced in the direction of the alternating rays (interradii). In some Astracturida the chambered arms exhibit a structure different from the more irregular chamber-work between them, so that we can distinguish the latter, connecting the arms like a web-membrane, as a peculiar "patagium" (as in many Porodiscida) (Pl. 38, figs. 8, 9). Often the distal ends of the chambered arms are armed with a radial spine (Pl. 38, figs. 5, 6, 9).

The Central Capsule of the Coccodiscida is originally always of the same form and shape as in their ancestral group, the Phacodiscida; a circular lenticular disk, which envelops the simple or double medullary shell and is enclosed by the cortical phacoid shell. But whilst in the Phacodiscida the phacoid shell envelops the central capsule perfectly, in the Coccodiscida it envelops only the capsule from the two flat sides (by the upper and lower sieve-plates); the marginal part of the lenticular capsule overgrows the margin of the phacoid shell by peripheral extension, and fills out the chambered cavity of the concentric girdles. In the Lithocyclida and the Stylocyclida, where there are no chambered arms, the central capsule remains a simple circular lens or disk; in the Astracturida, where chambered radial arms surround the margin of the circular central disk, the capsule enters also into these arms and fills out the greatest part of their chambered cavities.

Synopsis of the Genera of Coccodiscida.

Subfamily 1. Lithocyclida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with simple circular disk, without any radial appendages of the margin (either solid radial spines or chambered arms).

Genus 196. Lithocyclia,^[235] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with simple circular margin of the disk, without radial appendages. Medullary shell simple.

The genus Lithocyclia is the most simple form of Coccodiscida, and represents the common ancestral form of this family, from which all other genera of it can be derived. The lenticular, biconvex disk is quite simple, composed of a variable number of concentric, circular, chambered rings, which are pierced by radial beams, and which surround the circular lenticular cortical shell or "phacoid shell." The latter contains a simple spherical medullary shell in its centre, and is connected with it by radial beams. The margin of the disk is circular, quite simple, without radial spines or chambered arms.

Phacoid shell (or lenticular porous cortical shell) three times as broad as the spherical enclosed medullary shell, surrounded by one single chambered girdle or ring (with about forty chambers of equal size, separated by radial beams). Margin of the disk circular, smooth. Pores of the convex covering plates regular, circular; eight on the radius of the phacoid shell, two on the breadth of the ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with one ring) 0.13, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.033.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the enclosed medullary shell, surrounded by three chambered girdles of equal size, which are divided by piercing radial beams each into about fifty chambers. Margin of the disk thorny. Pores irregular, roundish; seven on the radius of the phacoid shell, two on the breadth of each girdle.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with three girdles) 0.2, of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.045.

Lithocyclia ocellus, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvi. fig. 30; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, Taf. xxix. fig. 3.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by numerous (seven to eleven) chambered rings, which are divided by piercing radial beams each into sixty to ninety chambers. Margin of the disk smooth. Pores regular, circular; nine on the radius of the phacoid shell, one single pore on each chamber.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eleven rings) 0.22, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.035.

Stephanopyxis dubiosa (?), Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xiii. figs. 1, 2.

Phacoid shell four times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by numerous (five to eight) chambered rings, which are divided by piercing radial beams each into fifty to seventy chambers. Margin of the disk thickened, thorny. Pores regular, circular; seven on the radius of the phacoid shell, one single pore on each chamber.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.18, of the phacoid shell 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.03.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 267, depth 2700 fathoms; also fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Phacoid shell two and a third times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by five to nine chambered rings, which are divided by piercing radial beams each into fifty to seventy chambers. Margin of the disk smooth. Pores very different in the inner and outer part of the surface; in the phacoid shell larger, regular, circular, eight on its radius, in the chambered periphery very small and irregular, somewhat spongy.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with nine rings) 0.2, of the phacoid shell 0.13, of the medullary shell 0.055.

Genus 197. Coccodiscus,^[236] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 485.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with simple circular margin of the disk, without radial appendages. Medullary shell double.

The genus Coccodiscus has quite the same form and structure as the preceding Lithocyclia, and differs from it only in the double medullary shell, composed of two concentric latticed spheres; sometimes the inner medullary shell is spherical, the outer {461}lenticular; the latter is connected with the lenticular phacoid shell (or cortical shell) by radial beams.

Phacoid shell (or lenticular porous cortical shell) very thick walled (as thick as one ring), three times as broad as the outer and seven times as broad as the inner medullary shell, surrounded by two to three chambered rings of equal breadth, each of which is divided by piercing radial beams into thirty-six to forty square chambers. Margin of the disk circular, smooth. Pores regular, circular, of equal size; ten on the radius of the phacoid shell, two on the breadth of each chamber.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with two rings) 0.2, of the phacoid shell 0.14, outer medullary shell 0.05, inner 0.02.

Coccodiscus darwinii, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 486, Taf. xxviii. figs. 11, 12.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the outer and nine times as broad as the inner medullary shell, surrounded by five to eight chambered rings of equal breadth, each of which is divided by forty piercing radial beams into forty square chambers of equal size. Margin of the disk smooth, circular. Pores irregular, roundish, of unequal size; eleven on the radius of the phacoid shell, one to two on each chamber.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.32, of the phacoid shell 0.11, outer medullary shell 0.036, inner 0.012.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the outer and five times as broad as the inner medullary shell, surrounded by three to seven chambered rings of equal breadth, each of which is divided by piercing radial beams into sixty to eighty chambers. Margin of the disk thorny. Pores regular, circular; eight on the radius of the phacoid shell, a single one on the breadth of each chamber.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with seven rings) 0.25, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.04, inner 0.02.

Subfamily 2. Stylocyclida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with solid radial spines on the margin of the circular disk, situated in its equatorial plane (without chambered arms).

Genus 198. Stylocyclia,^[237] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with two opposite solid radial spines on the margin of the circular disk. Medullary shell simple.

The genus Stylocyclia opens the series of the Stylocyclida or of those Coccodiscida in which the margin of the chambered disk is armed with solid radial spines, situated in its equatorial plane, but without chambered arms. Stylocyclia is the most simple form of this subfamily, and bears only two marginal spines, opposite in one equatorial axis of the disk. The medullary shell is simple. This genus corresponds to Xiphodictya in the family Porodiscida. The genus was previously known only by one single species described by Ehrenberg.

Stylocyclia dimidiata, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxix. fig. 4.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by five to eight chambered rings of equal breadth, divided by eighty to ninety piercing radial beams into square chambers. Pores subregular, circular; six to seven on the radius of the phacoid shell, a single one on each chamber. Both opposite marginal spines strong, club-shaped, their thickness decreasing from the margin towards the centre of the disk. (The figure of Ehrenberg is very incomplete.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.25, of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.035.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados; living in the depths of the Equatorial Atlantic, Station 348, depth (2450) fathoms.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by five to six chambered rings, which are divided by fifty to sixty piercing radial beams into square chambers. Pores in the thick-walled phacoid shell regularly circular, increasing in size from the centre; eight to nine on its radius. Pores on the surface of the chambered girdle smaller, very irregular, two to three on each ring. Both marginal spines longer than the diameter of the disk, with broad serrated edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.23, of the phacoid shell 0.12, of the medullary 0.05.

Phacoid shell four times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by four chambered rings, which are divided by twenty to thirty radial beams into broad chambers. The height of the rings increases strongly from the centre, so that the fourth ring is two and a half times as high as the first. Pores irregular, roundish; five to six on the radius of the phacoid shell, one to two on the breadth of each ring. Margin of the disk smooth. Both marginal spines thin and long, cylindrical, arising from the medullary shell, longer than the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.25, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.025.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados. Indian Ocean, Cocos Islands, Rabbe.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by five chambered rings, divided by piercing beams each into forty to fifty chambers. Pores regular, circular; eight to nine on the radius of the phacoid shell, one on each chamber. Margin of the disk thorny. Both marginal spines strong, conical, as long as its radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.24, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05.

Genus 199. Amphicyclia,^[238] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with two opposite solid radial spines on the margin of the circular disk. Medullary shell double.

The genus Amphicyclia has the same form and structure as Stylocyclia, and differs from it only in the double concentric medullary shell. It bears therefore to the latter the same relation that Coccodiscus does to Lithocyclia.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the outer and nine times as broad as the inner medullary shell, surrounded by two broad chambered rings, which are divided into irregular chambers by fifty to sixty radial beams of different distance. Margin of the disk thorny, lacerated. Pores irregular, roundish; twelve to sixteen on the radius of the phacoid shell, two to three on the breadth of each ring. The two opposite marginal spines strong, prismatic, with prominent edges, about as long as the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with two rings) 0.24, of the phacoid shell 0.15, outer medullary shell 0.05, inner 0.017.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 265 to 268, depths 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Stylocyclia amphistyla, Haeckel, 1879, MS. et Atlas (pl. xxxvii. fig. 7).

Phacoid shell thin walled, two and a half times as broad as the outer and seven times as broad as the inner medullary shell, divided by eighty to ninety radial beams into irregular chambers, which are stratified in four to five floors. Pores regular, circular; eight to nine on the radius of the phacoid shell, two on the breadth of each chamber. Both marginal spines cylindrical.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with seven rings) 0.27, of the phacoid shell 0.1, outer medullary shell 0.04, inner 0.014.

Phacoid shell very thick, spongy, twice as broad as the outer and five times as broad as the inner medullary shell, divided by fifty to seventy radial beams into subregular chambers, which are stratified in five to six floors. Pores irregular, roundish; ten to twelve on the radius of the phacoid shell, two to three on the breadth of each chamber. The two opposite marginal spines quadrangular prismatic, very long, as broad as the radius of the inner medullary shell. Fig. 2 exhibits a vertical section (slide) through the centre.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.22, of the phacoid shell 0.1, outer medullary shell 0.05, inner 0.02.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms; fossil in Barbados.

Genus 200. Trigonocyclia,^[239] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with three solid radial spines on the margin of the circular disk. Medullary shell simple.

The genus Trigonocyclia (only known by one single species, once observed) bears on the margin of the chambered disk three solid radial spines, at equal distances one from another. It corresponds to the genus Tripodictya amongst the Porodiscida.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, connected with it by six equidistant radial beams, three of which are prolonged into marginal spines. In the equatorial plane only one single chambered ring, divided by forty-four radial beams into narrow chambers. Pores large, irregular, roundish; five on the radius of the phacoid shell, two on each chamber. Surface and margin of the disk spiny. Three strong conical marginal spines, divergent at equal angles, as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16, of the phacoid shell 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.04.

Genus 201. Staurocyclia,^[240] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with four solid radial spines on the margin of the disk, crossed in two equatorial diameters perpendicular one to another. Medullary shell simple.

The genus Staurocyclia is characterised by four radial spines on the margin of the disk, which are opposite in pairs and situated in two equatorial diameters, commonly perpendicular one to another. They form therefore a rectangular cross (rarely more or less irregular). The genus corresponds exactly to Staurodictya in the family Porodiscida. The medullary shell is simple.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by six to eight regular rings, which are divided by fifty to seventy piercing beams into square chambers. Pores regular, circular; six on the radius of the phacoid shell, one single pore on each chamber. Four crossed radial spines, arising from the medullary shell by thin bases, prolonged over the dentated margin as four strong quadrangular swords, as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.23, of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.035.

? Haliomma sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xxii. fig. 2.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by three to four spongy rings, which are divided by thirty to forty radial beams into irregular chambers. Pores in the phacoid shell regular, circular, five on its radius; in the chambered spongy girdle much smaller and irregular. Margin dentated, with four crossed, very large, quadrangular spines, as long as the radius of the disk, with wing-shaped, serrated edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.2, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05.

Phacostaurus pyramidalis, Haeckel, 1879, MS. (as a separate genus).

Phacoid shell two and a quarter times as broad as the medullary shell, connected with it by twelve radial beams (four equatorial and eight divergent) and surrounded by one single ring, which is divided by forty radial beams into regular chambers. Pores regular, honeycomb-like in the {466}phacoid shell, seven on its radius; smaller on the equatorial ring, three on its breadth. Four marginal spines pyramidal four-sided, as long and as broad at the base as the ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with one ring) 0.14, of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.048.

Coccostaurus magniducis, Haeckel, 1881, MS. et Atlas (pl. xxxvii. fig. 4).

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, connected with it by numerous radial beams and surrounded by eight chambered rings, which are divided by one hundred to one hundred and twenty piercing radial beams into small chambers. Pores subregular, circular; ten on the radius of the phacoid shell, two on the breadth of each chamber. Margin of the disk armed with numerous bristle-shaped radial spines, as long as the breadth of the chambered girdle. Four very large crossed spines, nearly as long as the diameter of the disk, quadrangular, with four dentated edges; at the club-shaped distal end thorny, as broad as the medullary shell and three times as broad as at the narrow base. I name this splendid species in the honour of H.R.H. the Grand Duke of Saxe-Weimar, Carl Alexander, the magnanimous protector of arts and sciences, the rector magnificentissimus of the University of Jena.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.27, of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the four crossed club-spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.02, distal breadth 0.06.

Genus 202. Astrocyclia,^[241] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with numerous (five or more, commonly thirty to sixty) solid radial spines on the margin of the circular disk. Medullary shell simple.

The genus Astrocyclia exhibits on the margin of the circular chambered disk a large but variable number of solid radial spines, commonly between thirty and sixty. They are the external prolongations of the inner piercing radial beams, which divide the concentric rings of the disk into chambers. All the spines lie in the equatorial plane of the disk. The genus corresponds to Stylodictya in the family Porodiscida.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by four to six regular rings of equal breadth, which are divided by thirty to forty piercing radial beams into broad {467}chambers. Pores regular, circular; seven on the radius of the phacoid shell, one single pore on each chamber (the size increasing from the centre). Margin with thirty to forty angular, broad, dentate spines, the prolongations of the inner radial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.22, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.04.

Lithocyclia stella, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 78, Taf. xxix. fig. 2.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by four to eight rings of increasing breadth from the centre, the outer of which are more or less spongy. Each ring is divided by forty to fifty piercing radial beams into chambers of increasing size. Pores regular, circular; a single one on each chamber, ten on the radius of the phacoid shell. On the margin are scattered ten to twenty thick and short spines, four-sided pyramidal, about as long and as broad at the base as the diameter of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.25, of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.03.

Phacoid shell four times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by one single ring, which is divided by forty radial beams into equal chambers. Pores regular, circular; two on the breadth of the ring, six on the radius of the phacoid shell. Margin with forty short, conical spines, the prolongations of the inner radial beams, twice as long as the breadth of the ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.13, of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.025.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by four to six rings of equal breadth, which are divided by twelve to twenty radial beams into broad chambers. Pores regular, circular; two on the breadth of each ring, eight on the radius of the phacoid shell. Margin with twelve to twenty very long and thin, bristle-shaped, radial spines, the prolongations of the inner beams, longer than the diameter of the disk. (Resembles Stylodictya arachnia, but differs in the possession of a phacoid shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.22, of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.045.

5. Astrocyclia heterocycla, n. sp. (Pl. 36, fig. 8). Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, surrounded by three rings of unequal breadth, the first ring as broad as the second and third together. They are divided by fifty to sixty piercing radial beams into chambers, which are square in the second and third rings, and half as large as in the first. The radial beams are alternately thicker and thinner, prolonged into short marginal spines. Pores subregular, circular; eight on the radius of the phacoid shell, two on the breadth of the first ring, a single one on each chamber of the second and third rings.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with three rings) 0.2, of the phacoid shell 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.05.

Habitat.—Equatorial Atlantic, Station 348, depth (2450) fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Genus 203. Coccocyclia,^[242] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with numerous (five or more) solid radial spines on the margin of the circular disk. Medullary shell double.

The genus Coccocyclia has the same form and structure as the foregoing Astrocyclia, and differs from it only in the double concentric medullary shell. It bears therefore to the latter the same relation as Coccodiscus to Lithocyclia.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the outer and ten times as broad as the inner medullary shell, connected with both by six equidistant piercing radial beams. The margin of the phacoid shell is surrounded by one or two equatorial rings, each as broad as the outer medullary shell, and divided by thirty to forty radial beams into narrow chambers. Pores subregular, circular, about nine to ten on the radius of the phacoid shell, three to four on the breadth of each ring. Margin of the disk ciliated, with six regularly disposed radial spines as prolongations of the inner six piercing beams. Each spine cylindrical, delicately crenulated, about as broad as the inner medullary shell, and once to twice as long as the diameter of the whole disk, elegantly undulated, with a conical terminal point.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with two rings) 0.32, of the phacoid shell 0.2, of the outer medullary shell 0.06, of the inner 0.02.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the outer and six times as broad as the inner medullary shell, surrounded by six to eight rings of nearly equal breadth, the outer somewhat smaller. They are divided by fifty to sixty piercing radial beams into irregular chambers. Pores {469}irregular, roundish; ten on the radius of the phacoid shell, a single one on each chamber of the equatorial girdle. Margin of the disk with numerous strong conical radial spines of different breadths, arranged in several circles, the strongest in the equatorial plane, about as broad as one ring and twice as long. Surface thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with seven rings) 0.3, of the phacoid shell 0.12, of the outer medullary shell 0.05, of the inner 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Subfamily 3. Astracturida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with two or more (commonly three or four) chambered radial arms on the margin of the disk, situated in its equatorial plane (with or without a connecting patagium between the arms).

Genus 204. Diplactura,^[243] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with two opposite chambered arms on the margin of the circular disk, without a connecting patagium.

The genus Diplactura is the simplest form of the Astracturida, or of those Coccodiscida in which the margin of the disk bears chambered arms, situated in its equatorial plane. This subfamily corresponds to the Euchitonida among the Porodiscida, to the Spongobrachida among the Spongodiscida. In Diplactura there are only two free arms, opposite in one equatorial diameter (corresponding to Amphibrachium among the former, to Spongolena among the latter).

Subgenus 1. Diplacturium, Haeckel.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with six pores on its radius, without a perfect chambered ring around it. Arms club-shaped, one and a half times as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, at the distal end rounded, blunt, as broad as the latter, at the base only half as broad.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.08, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the arms 0.12, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.08.

Subgenus 2. Diplactinium, Haeckel.

Amphiactura diploconus, Haeckel, 1877, MS. et Atlas (pl. xxxviii. fig. 5).

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with eight pores on its radius, surrounded by a single chambered ring. Arms club-shaped, twice as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, at the distal end as broad as the latter, at the base only half as broad. Both poles of the common axis of the arms are armed with a strong spindle-shaped terminal spine.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the arms (without terminal spines) 0.17, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.09.

Genus 205. Amphiactura,^[244] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 458.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with two opposite chambered arms on the margin of the circular disk, connected by a spongy patagium.

The genus Amphiactura differs from the foregoing Diplactura in the development of a patagium between the arms, and therefore bears the same relation to it as Amphymenium in the Porodiscida does to Amphibrachium, or Spongobrachium in the Spongodiscida does to Spongolene. In this and in the following Discoidea provided with a patagium, this connecting web constantly exhibits a different texture of its framework, which is sometimes more regularly chambered, at other times more irregularly spongy.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with eight pores on its radius. Arms nearly equilateral triangular, twice as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, at the truncated distal end as broad as the latter, at the base only one-third as broad. Patagium a circular lenticular disk, enveloping only the basal third of the arms, with three to four concentric circular rings, divided into chambers by about forty radial beams, which are prolonged beyond the margin of the patagium into radial spines. The vertical section (fig. 4) shows that the chambers of each arm (eleven to twelve transverse rows in the radius) are disposed in two layers.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the arms 0.18, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.09.

Genus 206. Trigonactura,^[245] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with three chambered arms on the margin of the circular or triangular disk, without a connecting patagium.

The genus Trigonactura exhibits three radial arms, which in all known species are separated by three equal angles. The terminal points of the arm-axes are the corners of an equilateral triangle. It corresponds therefore to Dictyastrum among the Porodiscida.

Subgenus 1. Trigonacturium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Distal end of the arms blunt or truncated, without a terminal spine.

Astromma pythagoræ, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 66, Taf. xxx. fig. 2.

Phacoid shell circular, twice as broad as the medullary shell, with five pores on its radius, without a completely surrounding chambered girdle. Arms nearly square, at the truncated distal end as broad as long, and scarcely broader than at the base, two-thirds as long as the diameter of the central disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the arms 0.07, distal breadth 0.07.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, in various depths; also fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Nicobar.

Stephanastrum sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xv. fig. 7.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with five pores on its radius, without a perfect chambered ring around it. Arms club-shaped, at the blunt distal end rounded, as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell; their basal breadth is one-fourth, their distal breadth one-half of its length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the arms 0.1, basal breadth 0.025, distal breadth 0.05.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depths 2400 to 2800 fathoms; also fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, with six pores on its radius, without a perfect chambered girdle. Arms nearly equilateral triangular, twice as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, at the truncated distal end as broad as its diameter and three times as broad as at the narrow base. (Resembles Hymenactura hexagona, but without a patagium.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.045; length of the arms 0.2, basal breadth 0.035, distal breadth 0.1.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with eight pores on its radius, surrounded by one perfect chambered ring. Arms lanceolate, three times as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, and four times as long as broad in the middle part, at both ends very narrow, blunt.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the arms 0.25, breadth in the midst 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Trigonactinium, Haeckel.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, with eight pores on its radius, surrounded by one perfect chambered ring. Arms nearly lanceolate, in the middle part one and a half times as broad as at both ends, twice as long as the phacoid shell, at the distal end with a strong pyramidal terminal spine. Through the spongy framework of each arm shine sixteen to eighteen transverse bars (as septa of the joints) and six to eight longitudinal piercing beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.038; length of the arms 0.2, greatest breadth 0.08.

? Astromma sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, Taf. xv. fig. 2.

Phacoid shell triangular, twice as broad as the spherical medullary shell, with six to seven pores on its radius, surrounded by one chambered ring. Arms equilateral triangular, as long as {473}the diameter of the central disk and at the base half as broad, slowly decreasing in breadth towards the distal end, which is armed with a strong pyramidal spine.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the arms 0.12, basal breadth 0.07.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Phacoid shell circular, twice as broad as the medullary shell, without a completely surrounding chambered ring, with four pores on its radius. Arms club-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the central disk, at the base half as broad as long, at the rounded distal end broader, and armed with a strong pyramidal terminal spine, nearly as long as the arm itself.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.08, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the arms (without terminal spine) 0.08, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.06.

Genus 207. Hymenactura,^[246] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with three chambered arms on the margin of the circular or triangular disk, connected by a spongy patagium.

The genus Hymenactura differs from the foregoing Trigonactura in the spongy patagium between the arms, and bears therefore to it the same relation that among the Porodiscida Hymeniastrum does to the simpler Dictyastrum. The oldest known species of this genus is Hymenactura pythagoræ, described by Ehrenberg as Hymeniastrum pythagoræ, but differing from this in the structure of the central disk.

Subgenus 1. Hymenacturium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Distal end of the arms blunt or truncated, without terminal spines.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with eight pores on its radius. Arms nearly trapezoidal, somewhat longer than the diameter of the central disk, at the truncated distal end nearly as broad, at the base only half as broad. In each arm eleven to twelve transverse rows of square chambers, each of which exhibits on the surface one large pore. Patagium enveloping the basal half of the arms, with four to five convex rows of chambers, forming together a circular concentric disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.035; length of the arms 0.12, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.1.

Hymeniastrum pythagoræ, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvi. fig. 31; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, p. 76, Taf. xxx. fig. 5.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with six pores on its radius. Arms nearly trapezoidal, somewhat longer than the diameter of the central disk, at the truncated distal end nearly as broad, at the base two-thirds as broad. In each arm eight to nine transverse rows of square chambers, each chamber with one pore on the surface. Patagium enveloping the basal half of the arms, with four to five rectilinear parallel rows of chambers, forming together a regular triangle. Differs from the preceding species mainly in the quite different structure of the patagium, from the true Hymeniastrum pythagoræ in the phacoid shell of the central disk, which encloses only one simple medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the arms 0.13, basal breadth 0.07, distal breadth 0.12.

Astromma sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xv. fig. 1.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with four to five pores on its radius. Arms slender, lanceolate, three times as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell and five times as long as broad in the middle part; distal ends blunt. Patagium enveloping only the basal half of the arms, forming a regular triangle with concave sides.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.08, of the medullary shell 0.035; length of the arms 0.2, greatest breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms; fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Hymeniastrum sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xv. fig. 3.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with four to five pores on its radius. Arms nearly equilateral triangular, three times as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, at the truncated distal end nearly three-fourths as broad as long, at the narrow base only one-fourth as broad. Patagium complete, enveloping the arms completely, so that the whole body represents a regular hexagonal disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.08, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the arms 0.18, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.16.

Subgenus 2. Hymenactinium, Haeckel.

Astromma sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xv. figs. 5, 6.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with six to seven pores on its radius. Arms nearly square, about as large as the phacoid shell, at the truncated distal end little broader than at the base, and armed with a strong pyramidal terminal spine. Patagium incomplete, enveloping the basal half of the arms.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05; length and greatest breadth of the arms 0.08.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with six pores on its radius. Arms lanceolate, nearly twice as long as the phacoid shell, in the middle part twice as broad as the medullary shell, with a strong conical terminal spine at the distal end. In each arm about ten transverse rows of chambers. Patagium enveloping the basal half of the arms, with four convex parallel rows of chambers.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.035; length of the arms 0.17, greatest breadth 0.07.

Genus 208. Astractura,^[247] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with four chambered arms on the margin of the circular or quadrangular disk, crossed in two equatorial diameters, without a connecting patagium.

The genus Astractura has the form of a regular cross, four radial arms being opposite in two equatorial diameters perpendicular one to another. In the Porodiscida the same form is repeated by Stauralastrum, in the Spongodiscida by Spongasteriscus. The oldest known species of the genus is Astromma aristotelis of Ehrenberg, in which genus this author confounded triradial and four-radial forms.

Subgenus 1. Astracturium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Distal end of the arms blunt or truncated, without terminal spines.

? Astromma sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xiv. fig. 3.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with six pores on its radius, without a completely developed chambered ring. Arms trapezoidal, somewhat longer than the radius of the disk, at the truncated distal end as broad as long, at the base one-third smaller.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.08, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the arms 0.05, distal breadth 0.05, basal breadth 0.035.

Habitat.—Tropical Atlantic, Station 348, depth 2450 fathoms; also fossil in Barbados.

Astromma aristotelis, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. iv. fig. 2.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with ten pores on its radius, surrounded by one perfect chambered ring. Arms club-shaped, about as long as the radius of the central disk, at the rounded distal end two-thirds, at the base one-third as broad as long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the arms 0.06, basal breadth 0.02, distal breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depths 2350 to 2925 fathoms; fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Subgenus 2. Astractinium, Haeckel.

Astromma aristotelis, Ehrenberg, 1856, Microgeol., Taf. xxxvi. fig. 32; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, p. 66, Taf. xxx. fig. 4.

Astromma aristotelis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 489.

? Astromma aristotelis, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xiv. fig. 4.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with six to eight pores on its radius, surrounded by one perfect chambered ring. Arms nearly trapezoidal, about as long as the diameter of the central disk, at the base half as broad, at the truncated distal end nearly as broad as long, and armed with a large pyramidal terminal spine. Each arm with about eight transverse and longitudinal rows of chambers.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the arms 0.1, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.09.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, at various depths; fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Nicobar.

Astromma aristotelis, var., Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 66, Taf, xxx. fig. 3.

? Astromma aristotelis, var., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xiv. fig. 4.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with five to seven pores on its radius, without perfect chambered ring. Arms about twice as long as broad, longer than the diameter of the central disk, at the truncated distal end a little broader than at the base, and armed with a strong, pyramidal, terminal spine.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the arms 0.15, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.08.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 266, depth 2750 fathoms; fossil in Barbados.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with seven pores on its radius, surrounded by two to three perfect chambered rings. Arms nearly square, scarcely as long and nearly as broad as the diameter of the central disk, at the rounded distal end armed with a very strong, pyramidal, terminal spine, longer than the arm itself, and at the base as broad as the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the arms 0.08, breadth 0.1.

Genus 209. Stauractura,^[248] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with four chambered arms on the margin of the circular or quadrangular disk, crossed in two equatorial diameters, connected by a spongy patagium.

The genus Stauractura differs from the foregoing in the patagium between the arms, and bears therefore the same relation to it as Histiastrum in the Porodiscida does to Stauralastrum. All known species of this genus form a regular square, if we connect the end points of the arm axes by lines.

Subgenus 1. Stauracturium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Distal end of the arms blunt or truncated, without terminal spines.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with eight pores in its radius. Arms nearly square, little larger than the phacoid shell, with broad truncated distal ends. The corners of the latter are so connected by the complete patagium, that the whole shell forms a regular octagon.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05; length of the arms 0.12, distal breadth 0.11.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with eleven pores on its radius. Arms club-shaped, nearly as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, and one and a half times as long as broad at the distal part; at the distal end rounded, blunt, without terminal spine. The terminal points of the arms are so connected by a thin, complete patagium, that the whole shell becomes a regular square.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.13, of the medullary shell 0.045; length of the arms 0.12, greatest breadth 0.08.

Subgenus 2. Stauractinium, Haeckel.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, with nine pores on its radius. Arms club-shaped, one and a half times as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, and in the outer third nearly as broad as the latter, at the base scarcely one-third as broad; their truncated distal end armed with a strong pyramidal terminal spine. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms, with three rectilinear parallel rows of chambers, forming a square.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the arms 0.14, greatest breadth 0.08.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with seven pores on the radius. Arms nearly square, about as large as the phacoid shell, with a strong pyramidal terminal spine at the distal end. Patagium complete, between every two arms triangular, with rectilinear parallel {479}rows of chambers; it connects the end points of the arm radius in such a manner that the whole shell becomes a regular square.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.045; length of the arms 0.1, greatest breadth 0.08.

Genus 210. Pentactura,^[249] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with five chambered arms on the margin of the circular or pentagonal disk, without a connecting patagium.

The genus Pentactura possesses five free radial arms, and resembles Pentalastrum among the Porodiscida. The distance of the five arms seems to be sometimes equal, at other times different in one and the same species.

Astromma pentactis, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 66, Taf. xxx. fig. 1.

Phacoid shell two and a half times as broad as the medullary shell, with eight pores on its radius. Arms regularly or irregularly disposed, nearly square, about half as large as the phacoid shell, at the truncated distal end little broader than at the base. In the specimen figured, and very imperfectly described by Ehrenberg, (loc. cit.), the arms were asymmetrically disposed, two opposite in one axis of the disk, two others on one side of this axis, the fifth opposite to these on the other side. Another specimen which I found in the Barbados rocks had five arms of equal size, regularly disposed, at equal intervals.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.04; length and breadth of the arms 0.05 to 0.06.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with ten pores on its radius. Arms regularly disposed, club-shaped, nearly twice as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, and equal to it in breadth at the rounded distal end. The latter is armed with a short conical spine, and is twice as broad as the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.03; length of the arms 0.17, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.08.

Genus 211. Echinactura,^[250] n. gen.

Definition.—Coccodiscida with five chambered arms on the margin of the circular or pentagonal disk, connected by a spongy patagium.

The genus Echinactura differs from the foregoing Pentactura in the patagium between the arms, and bears therefore the same relation to it as Pentinastrum in the Porodiscida does to Pentalastrum.

Phacoid shell pentagonal, three times as broad as the medullary shell, with nine pores on its radius. Arms egg-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, and in the distal part half as broad. The blunt ends of the arms are so connected by the complete patagium that the whole shell becomes a regular pentagonal disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.035; length of the arms 0.11, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.06.

Phacoid shell twice as broad as the medullary shell, with seven pores on its radius. Arms lanceolate, twice as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, in the middle part nearly as broad as the latter, at the distal end with a strong conical terminal spine. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.09, of the medullary shell 0.045; length of the arms 0.2, greatest breadth 0.08.

Phacoid shell three times as broad as the medullary shell, with nine pores on its radius. Arms club-shaped, one and a half times as long as the diameter of the phacoid shell, in the distal part nearly as broad as the latter, in the basal part one-third as broad; at the end a strong pyramidal spine. Patagium nearly complete, with concave dentated margin between each pair of arms, therefore the pentagonal disk of the whole shell with concave sides.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the phacoid shell 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.04; length of the arms (without terminal spine) 0.18, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.1.

Family XXI. Porodiscida, Haeckel (Pls. 41-47).

Porodiscida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Trematodiscida et Discospirida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol.,

pp. 485, 491, 513.

Calodictya, Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss.

Berlin, p. 53 (partim).

Definition.—Discoidea without phacoid shell, with flat discoidal shell, in which a simple spherical central chamber is surrounded by concentric chambered rings (each ring divided by radial beams into imperfect chambers). Surface of the disk on the two flat sides covered by a porous sieve-plate.

The family Porodiscida is by far the largest and richest in different and common forms among all Discoidea; already in my Monograph (1862) nine genera and twenty-eight species have been enumerated. Their number is here increased to more than thirty genera and two hundred species. Many of these species appertain to the most common and widely distributed Spumellaria, both living and fossil. But the study of their structure is not easy, and requires (as in the foregoing Coccodiscida) not only careful examination of the facial views of the disk, but also of the marginal view and of slides and sections through different planes.

In my Monograph (1862, pp. 485, 491, 513) I had constituted for these Discoidea two different families, the Trematodiscida and Discospirida; but the comparative study of a far greater number of different types in the Challenger collection has since convinced me that those two families are but little different, and united by transitional forms within one and the same genus, so that they must be united as Porodiscida. Of the group, which Ehrenberg formerly had called "Calodictya," many genera appertain to the Porodiscida, whilst many others are true Spongodiscida.

The Porodiscida represent the first and the most important family of the Cyclodiscaria, or of those Discoidea which are devoid of the peculiar extracapsular lenticular "phacoid shell," characteristic of the three preceding families (united therefore as Phacodiscaria). Probably all Cyclodiscaria can be derived from Archidiscus, from a morphological as well as a phylogenetic point of view. Archidiscus seems to be the common ancestral form not only of the Porodiscida, but also of the nearly allied Pylodiscida and Spongodiscida. This important Archidiscus (Pl. 48, figs. 9-11) is a small lenticular circular disk, in which a simple latticed spherical central chamber is surrounded by one single concentric ring, connected with it by a variable number of radial beams in the equatorial plane. From this typical Archidiscus, as from their "architype," all other Cyclodiscaria may be derived; the Porodiscida by regular apposition of new concentric chambered rings on the margin, the Spongodiscida by irregular apposition of a spongy framework, the Pylodiscida by a peculiar interrupted, concentric, triradial growth, three radial arm-chambers alternating with three open gates or holes, so that already the first chambered ring is not complete.

Archidiscus (Pl. 48, figs. 9-11) is not only the common phylogenetic ancestral form of all Cyclodiscaria, but also the common ontogenetic original form of all Porodiscida, or at least of the greater part of them. The numerous species of Archidiscus, which are distinguished in the sequel, are at the same time the embryonic forms of different Porodiscida, corresponding to the "biogenetic main law of development." The small shell of Archidiscus is sometimes completely lenticular, circular, at other times more or less polygonal; commonly on the biconvex centre much thicker than on the margin, but sometimes also of nearly equal thickness (like a medal or a short cylinder). The latticed central chamber of it is probably in the majority of species spherical, but in some more or less compressed, lenticular; the number of small pores on its surface is probably commonly between ten and twenty (four to eight usually being visible on each hemisphere). The number of radial beams, which connect it with the equatorial ring, varies commonly from four to eight; but sometimes only two or three are to be found, in other cases nine to ten or more. The regular disposition of these beams (in certain equatorial axes of the disk) is probably of great importance, as determining the later development of characteristic radial appendages of the margin in the more highly developed Porodiscida. The equatorial ring itself, forming the margin of the lenticular disk, is either a simple solid ring or a broader latticed girdle; in the latter case it merges slowly into the opposite sieve-plates of the two flat disk sides, or the porous "cover-plates," covering its parallel or convex surfaces. These latter can be regarded as direct peripheral continuations of the polar regions of the spherical central chamber. The ring-chambers, surrounding the latter in a single circle, are commonly of nearly the same breadth, but often also of different irregular size. Their number varies between two and ten or more, but commonly between four and eight; each ring-chamber is covered on the upper and lower side by the sieve-plate, bounded on the inner (proximal) side by the wall of the central chamber, on the outer (distal) side by the marginal ring, on both lateral sides by the contiguous neighbouring ring-chambers.

The important question as to the phylogenetic origin of Archidiscus can be answered in a twofold way. The most simple form of Archidiscus (Archidiscus dioniscus) can be derived immediately from the Stylosphærida, Saturnalis (Pl. 13, fig. 16), only by the development of lattice-work between the equatorial ring and the two polar faces of the concentric central chamber (on the surface of the biconvex jelly-mantle). But on the other hand Archidiscus may also be derived from the simplest Phacodiscida, Sethodiscus (Pl. 33, figs. 1-3), by the stronger compression of the biconvex lenticular shell, so that the enclosed medullary shell on the two poles runs together with the lenticular phacoid shell, of which only the peripheral part remains free, and thus forms the chambered ring; this latter explanation seems the more natural in many cases, as often in the Porodiscida the central chamber is enclosed in one or two concentric spherical or lenticular lattice-shells.

The second subfamily of the Porodiscida are the Trematodiscida, which are derived from the preceding Archidiscida by concentric growth in the equatorial plane. In the same way in which the simple chambered ring of Archidiscus is connected by radial beams with the central chamber, so in Porodiscus a variable number of concentric rings is connected with that first ring. The number of these concentric rings varies between two and ten or more, but commonly amounts to between three and five. The radial beams connecting them are either piercing or interrupted; their number increases gradually from the centre towards the periphery. The chambers between them are sometimes more regular, at other times more irregular in size and form. Their upper and lower wall is formed by the two covering "sieve-plates," or the porous cover-plates, which are continued from the central disk to the margin. If these two sieve-plates continue being parallel, the disk becomes medal-shaped or a short cylinder; if the two plates become more or less concavely vaulted one against the other, the disk becomes biconvex lenticular, the middle part thicker than the marginal part. Rarely the contrary is the case, the margin thicker than the centre, and then the disk biconcave.

In my Monograph I had separated as two different subfamilies the true Trematodiscida (with circular concentric rings) from the Discospirida (with spirally convoluted rings). But the enormous mass of specimens, which I afterwards examined in the Challenger collection, has convinced me that this separation was not natural. For in one and the same genus of most nearly allied forms we find on one hand quite regular concentric circular forms (Trematodiscus), on the other hand spirally convoluted forms (Discospira), and connecting between them such forms as are in the central part concentric, in the marginal part spiral (Perispira)—or conversely, these in the centre spiral, on the margin concentric (Centrospira)—and frequently also more or less irregular forms with interrupted rings (Atactodiscus); therefore, all those genera (Prodromus, 1881, Nos. 448-452) have only the value of subgenera of Porodiscus. But a distinct genus is Perichlamydium, in which the two sieve-plates run on the margin of the lens and form a broad hyaline porous or solid girdle. More important is the distinction of the Ommatodiscida, in which the margin of the disk exhibits one larger osculum, armed with a corona of spines (Ommatodiscus), or two oscula, opposite on the poles of one axis (Stomatodiscus). Whilst in many Porodiscida all chambers of the concentric rings lie in one and the same (equatorial) plane, in many others with further growth they become stratified in floors, and the whole disk is therefore composed of two to four or more parallel disks, each with a system of concentric chambered rings or girdles, quite as in the majority of the Coccodiscida (p. 457). Often the central part of the lenticular disk becomes thickened by apposition of such floors or strata, whilst the marginal part remains simple, with one single stratum. The communication between the chambers of the different strata seems to be the same as in the similar Coccodiscida.

Also the margin of the disk exhibits in the Porodiscida the same characteristic {484}differences as in the foregoing family. In the subfamily of Stylodictyida it bears a certain number of solid radial spines, often regularly disposed (as in the Stylocyclida). In the subfamily of Euchitonida the margin is distinguished by the possession of two to six or more (commonly three or four) chambered arms, also situated in the plane of the disk, and of the same structure (sometimes more or less irregular, spongy). These arms are very variable in size, form, and structure, exhibit the same peculiarities as in the Astracturida, and are sometimes free, at other times connected by a "patagium" or an interbrachial spongy skeleton of different structure, like a web membrane (compare above, p. 458). In some genera the arms become forked or branched on the distal end. Sometimes their distal end bears a terminal radial spine.

The Central Capsule of the Porodiscida assumes generally the form of the including shell, with or without arms, but is constantly somewhat smaller, as it remains enclosed by the sieve-plates of the disk surface. Often the capsule is filled with many coloured oil-globules, disposed regularly in the chamber rows. The nucleus of it is enclosed by the central chamber, and in many cases by this and the innermost concentric rings.

Synopsis of the Genera of the Porodiscida.

Subfamily 1. Archidiscida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Porodiscida with a simple spherical or lenticular latticed central chamber, surrounded by a single concentric latticed ring, which is divided by radial beams into two to six or more radial chambers.

Genus 212. Archidiscus,^[251] n. gen.

Definition.—Porodiscida with a simple central chamber, surrounded by a single concentric ring, which is divided by radial beams into two to six or more radial chambers, without radial spines on the margin.

The genus Archidiscus begins the long and polymorphous series of the Cyclodiscaria or of those Discoidea which do not possess the peculiar "phacoid shell" characteristic of the three preceding families, united as "Phacodiscaria." As already mentioned above, both these groups are probably of independent origin, derived from the Sphæroidea in different ways (compare pp. 402, 405, &c.). Among all Cyclodiscaria Archidiscus is the most simple, and probably the common ancestral form, from which the other genera may be derived.

Subgenus 1. Dioniscus, Haeckel.

Ring circular, connected with the central chamber by two radial beams, opposite in one axis, therefore two equal semicircular ring chambers. (This primitive form has an interesting reference to Saturnalis, Pl. 13, fig. 16, and differs from it only in the lattice-work covering both faces of the lenticular disk, the margin of which forms the ring.)

Ring roundish, connected with the central chamber by two radial beams, not opposite in one axis; both semicircular ring chambers more or less unequal, one of them larger than the other, and sometimes much more prominent. (If this prominence increase, we can regard it as the beginning of spiral convolutions, Discospira.)

Subgenus 2. Trioniscus, Haeckel.

Ring triangular, roundish, equilateral, connected with the central chamber by three radial beams at equal distances (120°); therefore three equal ring chambers. (Resembles the central part of the disk of Tripodictya trigonaria, Pl. 42, fig. 8, and may be the ancestral form of it.)

Ring irregular, roundish, connected with the central chamber by three radial beams at unequal distances; therefore three ring chambers of different size. (If these differences be important, they introduce a spiral convolution in the further development of the Porodiscus arising from it.)

Subgenus 3. Tetroniscus, Haeckel.

Ring regular, square, connected with the central chamber by four radial beams at equal distances, opposite in pairs in two axes perpendicular one to another; therefore four equal ring chambers (or congruent quadrants of the ring). Resembles the central part of the disk of Staurodictya medusa, &c. (Pl. 42, figs. 1-3); also of Staurodictya gracilis, Ehrenberg, 1875 (Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. xxiii. fig. 3).

Ring elliptical, of rhomboidal fundamental form, connected with the central chamber by four radial beams, halving the sides of the rhombus and opposite in pairs in two axes which are not perpendicular one to another; therefore four ring chambers in pairs different, two opposite equal and larger than the two others.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the ring 0.05 to 0.07, of the central chamber 0.016.

Ring irregular, quadrangular, connected with the central chamber by four radial beams of increasing unequal length; therefore all four ring chambers of different size, gradually increasing {488}in the following quadrants of the ring. Important as an ancestral type of such spiral and semi-spiral forms as Staurodictya cruciata (Pl. 42, figs. 4, 12, &c.) and Stylodictya clavata, Stylodictya stellata, &c., of Ehrenberg, 1875 (Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. xxiii. figs. 2, 7, 8, 9).

Subgenus 4. Pentoniscus, Haeckel.

Ring pentagonal or nearly circular, regular, connected with the central chamber by five radial beams of equal length and at equal distances (72°); therefore all five chambers of the ring of equal size and similar form. (Resembles the central part of the disk of Pentinastrum asteriscus, Pl. 44, fig. 2.)

Subgenus 5. Hexoniscus, Haeckel.

Ring regular, hexagonal, or nearly circular, connected with the central chamber by six radial beams of equal length and at equal distances (60°); therefore all six chambers of the same size and form. (Resembles the central part of the disk of Hexinastrum geryonidum, Pl. 44, fig. 4.)

Ring triangular, connected with the central chamber by six radial beams at alternating distances; therefore three larger chambers (of looser network) alternate with three smaller chambers (of denser network); pores of the former twice to three times as large as those of the latter. This species is of peculiar importance, as an immediate transitional form to the Pylodiscida. If these three larger ring chambers lose their few lattice-beams and so became open gates, we get Triolene or Triopyle, the original forms of the Pylodiscida.

Ring irregular, roundish, or hexagonal, connected with the central chamber by six radial beams of unequal increasing length; therefore all six ring chambers of gradually increasing size (beginning a spiral convolution, original form of some Discospira).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the ring 0.05 to 0.07, of the central chamber 0.014.

Subgenus 6. Circoniscus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Ring with seven or more chambers, separated by seven or more radial beams.

Ring circular or regular octagonal, connected with the central chamber by eight equidistant radial beams; therefore eight ring chambers of equal size. (Compare the central part of the disk of Porodiscus quadrigatus, Pl. 41, fig. 3.)

Ring circular, connected with the central chamber by nine to ten or more radial beams at nearly equal distances. Ring chambers nine to ten, more or less equal, sometimes also eleven to twelve, more different. (This species is very variable, and may perhaps be divided into a number of different "transformistic species.")

Dimensions.—Diameter of the ring 0.04 to 0.06, of the central chamber 0.015.

Genus 213. Axodiscus,^[252] n. sp.

Definition.—Porodiscida with a simple central chamber, surrounded by one single concentric ring, which is divided by radial beams into two to six or more radial chambers; margin of the disk armed with radial spines.

The genus Axodiscus differs from the preceding Archidiscus only in the shape of the margin of the small lenticular disk, which is armed with a variable number of radial spines, indicating certain axes or radii of the shell. If these marginal spines at certain equal distances from the margin branch and their distal ends become united by these branches forming a concentric second ring, the genus passes into Porodiscus. The different number and disposition of the marginal spines are probably very important, {490}as determining the later development of two to four or more radii in the different genera of Porodiscida.

Ring circular, with two equal semicircular chambers, connected with the central chamber by two opposite radial beams, which are prolonged outside into two strong conical spines.

Ring regular, triangular, equilateral, connected with the central chamber by three equidistant radial beams, which are prolonged outside into three short conical spines. (Differs from Archidiscus trioniscus in the possession of marginal spines.)

Ring regular, square, connected with the central chamber by four radial beams, which lie opposite in pairs in two perpendicularly crossed axes, and are prolonged outside into four delicate cylindrical spines.

Ring regular, hexagonal, connected with the central chamber by six radial beams at equal distances, which are prolonged outside into six strong pyramidal spines.

Ring regular, triangular, equilateral, connected with the central chamber by six radial beams of alternating length and distance; therefore three smaller (perradial) chambers (with denser and darker network) alternating with three larger (interradial) chambers (with looser and finer network). On the margin three strong conical radial spines, arising in the radius of the larger chambers. (Differs from Archidiscus pyloniscus, Pl. 48, fig. 11, mainly in the strong angular spines on the three corners of the triangular shell.)

Ring circular or nearly octagonal, connected with the central chamber by eight radial beams at nearly equal distances, which are prolonged outside into eight short conical spines. (Differs from Archidiscus octoniscus in the marginal prolongation of the eight beams.)

Ring circular, connected with the central chamber by ten to twelve radial beams at nearly equal distances, which are prolonged outside into short conical spines of variable length. (May be regarded as an aculeate variety of Archidiscus polythalamus.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the ring 0.04 to 0.05, of the central chamber 0.014.

Subfamily 2. Trematodiscida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 491 (sensu emendato et restricto).

Definition.—Porodiscida without radial appendages of the disk (solid spines or chambered arms on the margin), and without peculiar oscula on the margin of the disk, which is composed of two to four or more concentric rings.

Genus 214. Porodiscus,^[253] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Porodiscida with simple circular disk, composed of several rings (without radial appendages or peculiar oscula on the margin of the disk).

The genus Porodiscus is, next to its ancestral form, Archidiscus, the simplest and most primitive form of the Porodiscida, from which all other genera of this family can be derived. The disk is quite simple, without any marginal appendages, composed of a variable number of rings, commonly of circular form, sometimes more or less polygonal, elliptical, or irregular. In my Monograph (1862, pp. 491, 513) I had separated the species, here united in Porodiscus, into two different genera: Trematodiscus with concentric rings, and Discospira with spiral rings. But the extended study of these very common forms in a great number of specimens in the Challenger collection has convinced me that the separation of those two genera cannot be maintained. In one and the same locality, where one single characteristic disk-form is very common, we find intermingled quite regular disks with only concentric, circular rings (Trematodiscus), and other disks with one single perfect spiral ring (Discospira); and between {492}these a smaller number of specimens, in which the rings of the disk are partly concentric, partly spiral; either the rings of the central part of the disk are concentric, the outer spiral (Perispira), or the proportion is inverse (Centrospira); and sometimes the whole disposition of the concentric and spiral rings is irregular, and the rings often interrupted (Atactodiscus). Therefore it appears more natural to give to all these different forms only the value of subgenera of Porodiscus, as I have already proposed in my Prodromus (1881, p. 459). Even the numerous species of Porodiscus (mainly characterised by the equal or different breadth of the rings, and by the number, form, and size of the connecting radial beams and of the superficial pores) are for the most part very variable and hard to distinguish, as all those characters are not constant. Porodiscus is a quite "transformistic genus."

Subgenus 1. Trematodiscus, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 841.

Definition.—All rings of the disk concentric (commonly circular, rarely a little elliptical or polygonal).

Trematodiscus orbiculatus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 492, Taf. xxix. fig. 1.

Trematodiscus orbiculatus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 108.

All rings of the disk circular, concentric, of equal breadth, connected by numerous alternating radial beams. Chambers differing little in size, about as large as the central chamber. Pores regular, circular, two to two and a half on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with nine rings) 0.18; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.003.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface; also fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados, Sicily, and Nicobar.

Trematodiscus concentricus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 493.

Trematodiscus concentricus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 108.

Flustrella concentrica, Ehrenberg, 1838, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 132; Ibid., 1875, p. 72, Taf. xxii. fig. 13.

? Flustrella concentrica, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xix. fig. 61, Taf. xx. fig. 42, Taf. xxi. fig. 51, Taf. xxxvi. fig. 29.

All rings of the disk circular, concentric, of equal breadth, connected by numerous piercing radial beams. Chambers different in size, increasing from the centre towards the periphery. Pores regular, circular, one and half to two on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.16; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.003.

Porodiscus haeckelii = Trematodiscus haeckelii, Bütschli, 1882, L. N. 41, Taf. xxiv. figs. 5a, 5b.

Trematodiscus flustrella, Haeckel, 1866, MS. Canar. Ins.

All rings of the disk circular, concentric, of equal breadth, connected by numerous piercing radial beams. Chambers different in size, increasing from the centre towards the periphery. Pores very irregular, polygonal, or roundish, one to three on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.12; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Trematodiscus sorites, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 492, Taf. xxix. fig. 2.

All rings of the disk circular, concentric, of equal breadth, connected by numerous alternating radial beams. Chambers different in size, increasing from the centre. Pores regular, circular, one to one and a half on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.12; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.006.

Trematodiscus macroporus, Haeckel, 1879, MS.

Flustrella macropora, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 160.

All rings of the disk circular, concentric, of equal breadth, connected by numerous piercing radial beams. Chambers of different breadth, increasing from the centre. Pores regular, very large, nearly square, one single pore on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.11; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.005.

Trematodiscus microporus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol xxvi. p. 108, Taf. iv. fig. 17.

All rings of the disk concentric, either circular or a little elliptical; the innermost rings of the same breadth as the central chamber, the third ring much broader. Radial beams between them alternating; chambers of different size. Pores very small, subregular, everywhere of the same size, four to five pores on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with three rings) 0.15; breadth of the inner rings 0.02, of the outer 0.03; pores 0.0016.

Trematodiscus ellipticus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 108, Taf. iv. fig. 16.

All rings of the disk concentric, either circular or a little elliptical, connected by eight piercing radial beams; central chamber elliptical, of the same breadth as the first ring, broader than the following rings, the breadth of which decreases towards the periphery. Pores irregular, in the inner rings twice as broad as in the outer (third) ring, four to five on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with three rings) 0.18; breadth of the inner rings 0.03, of the outer 0.02; pores 0.003 to 0.006.

Trematodiscus heterocyclus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 493, Taf. xxix. fig. 3.

? Flustrella cyclia, Harting, 1863, Fauna Banda-Zee, p. 11, pl. i. fig. 19.

Trematodiscus heterocyclus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 108.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, connected by numerous radial beams, which are partly piercing, partly alternating. The breadth of the rings increases gradually from the centre towards the periphery, corresponding also to the size of the pores; two to three circular pores on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.17; breadth of the second ring 0.007, of the sixth 0.02; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, surface; also fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados and the Mediterranean.

All rings of the disk concentric, of nearly equal breadth, connected by four interradial beams, perpendicular one to another. The first ring (surrounding the central chamber) with eight chambers, the second only with four (alternating with the four radial beams). Size of the four chambers of each ring increases much towards the periphery. Pores regular, circular, about two on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.18; breadth of each ring 0.05; pores 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Perispira, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—The inner rings of the disk concentric (commonly circular); the outer rings spirally convoluted.

Perispira perforata, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Inner rings of the disk (two or three) concentric, outer rings (three or four) spirally convoluted, spiral line simple. All rings nearly of the same breadth, connected by alternating irregular radial beams. Pores irregular, two to three on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.17; breadth of each ring 0.016; pores 0.003 to 0.005.

Perispira radiata, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Inner rings of the disk (four or five) concentric, outer rings (three or four) spirally convoluted, spiral line simple. All rings connected by piercing radial beams (eight in the inner half, sixteen in the outer half). Breadth of the rings and of the pores increasing from the centre towards the periphery, three to four pores on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.18; breadth of the second ring 0.006, of the eighth ring 0.02; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Subgenus 3. Centrospira, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—The inner rings of the disk spirally convoluted, the outer rings concentric (commonly circular).

Centrospira perispongidium, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Inner rings of the disk (two or three) spirally convoluted (with simple or double spiral line), outer rings (three or four) concentric, subcircular. All rings nearly of the same breadth, connected by alternating radial beams. Pores subregular, two to three on the breadth of each ring. Lattice-work in the periphery of the disk a little spongy (as in Pl. 41, fig. 11).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.15; breadth of each ring 0.015; pores 0.003.

Subgenus 4. Discospira, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 513.

Definition.—All rings of the disk spirally convoluted, forming parts of a simple or double spiral turning.

Discospira helicoides, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 514, Taf. xxix. fig. 7.

Trematodiscus helicoides, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 841.

All rings of the disk spirally convoluted around the central chamber; spiral line regular, simple. All rings nearly of the same breadth, connected by numerous alternating radial beams. Chambers little different in size, little longer than broad. Pores of equal size, regular, two on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with ten rings) 0.2; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.0025.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of the Mediterranean, Sicily, Oran, &c.

Flustrella spiralis, Ehrenberg, 1840, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 210; Mikrogeol., 1854, Taf. xix. fig. 62.

Discospira spiralis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 513.

All rings of the disk spirally convoluted around the central chamber; spiral line regular, simple. All rings nearly of the same breadth, connected by numerous (twelve to sixteen) piercing radial beams. Chambers increasing in size from the centre towards the periphery. Pores irregular, of different size, one and a half to two on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.16; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.004.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados, Sicily, Greece, &c.

Discospira operculina, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 514, Taf. xxix. fig. 8.

All rings of the disk spirally convoluted around the central chamber, spiral line regular, simple. Breadth of the rings and length of the chambers increasing in size from the centre towards the periphery. Most part of chambers twice as long as broad. Pores irregular, of very different sizes, two to three on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.16; breadth of the rings 0.012 to 0.016; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Discospira bilix, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 113, Taf. vi. fig. 3.

All rings of the disk spirally convoluted around the large elliptical central chamber. Spiral convolutions of the inner rings simple, of the outer rings double; the latter twice as broad as the {497}former. Pores regular, circular, in the inner rings one pore on the breadth, in the outer rings two to three pores. Radial beams piercing, numerous, on the margin prominent.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.14; breadth of the inner rings 0.007, of the outer 0.013; pores 0.0017.

Stylodictya bispiralis, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 160. Taf. xxiv. fig. 1.

All rings of the disk spirally convoluted, in a perfect double spiral, with increasing breadth of the rings; the fourth ring twice as broad as the first. Pores regular, circular; in the inner rings one pore on the breadth, in the outer rings two to three pores. Radial beams piercing, numerous, prominent on the margin.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.1; breadth of the inner rings 0.006, of the outer 0.012; pores 0.0015.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados; living in the depths of the Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms.

Discospira duplex, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 114, Taf. vi. fig. 4.

All rings of the disk spirally convoluted, in a perfect double spiral, with increasing breadth of the broad rings. Pores regular, circular; in the inner rings two to three, in the outer four to five on the breadth. Radial beams interrupted. Margin of the rings thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with three rings) 0.15; breadth of the rings 0.02 to 0.04; pores 0.007.

All rings of the disk spirally convoluted, divided by four radial, perpendicularly crossed and zigzag shaped beams into four quadrants; the quarter rings of each quadrant halving the rings of each adjacent quarter. Half spiral line often irregular or partly interrupted. Breadth of all rings nearly equal. Pores irregular, roundish, two on the breadth of each ring. Margin of the disk dentated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with nine rings) 0.22; breadth of each ring 0.012; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Subgenus 5. Atactodiscus, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Rings of the disk more or less irregular, partly concentric, partly spirally convoluted, often interrupted.

Discospira deformis, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 114, Taf. vi. fig. 6.

Rings of the disk irregular, partly concentric, partly spiral, often interrupted, increasing in breadth from the centre. Radial beams not piercing; pores regular, circular, two to six on the breadth of the different rings. (Very variable and irregular, sometimes more spiral, at other times more concentric, but always with equal pores.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.18; breadth of the first ring 0.014, of the second 0.03, of the fourth 0.06; pores 0.005.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Sicily; living in the Central Pacific, Stations 266 to 268, depths 2700 to 2900 fathoms.

Atactodiscus irregularis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Perispongidium irregulare, Haeckel, 1878, MS. et Atlas (pl. xli. fig. 7).

Rings of the disk irregular, partly concentric, partly spiral, often interrupted, with nearly equal breadth. Radial beams not piercing; pores irregular, roundish, two to four on the breadth of each ring; network in the periphery of the disk spongy. (Very variable and irregular, sometimes more spiral, at other times more concentric; disk in the peripheral part often more or less spongy. Differs from the preceding by the equal breadth of the rings and the different size of the pores.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.15; breadth of each ring 0.011; pores 0.002 to 0.004.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, surface; also fossil in Barbados.

Genus 215. Perichlamydium,^[254] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Porodiscida with a simple circular disk (without radial spines and chambered arms), surrounded on the margin by a thin porous (but not chambered) equatorial girdle.

The genus Perichlamydium differs from Porodiscus only in the development of a thin, porous, equatorial girdle, which surrounds the circular margin of the chambered disk. This girdle lies in the equatorial plane of the lenticular disk, and represents a very delicate siliceous plate, perforated by numerous small pores. Sometimes the proximal part of the girdle is ribbed by thin radial beams, the distal prolongations of the radial rods of the central disk. If these ribs reach the margin of the girdle and are prominent over it, Perichlamydium passes over into Stylochlamydium.

Perichlamydium praetextum, Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 43; Mikrogeol., 1854, Taf. xxii. fig. 21 (non 20).

Perichlamydium praetextum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 495.

All rings of the disk (three to four) concentric, circular, of equal breadth, with interrupted (not piercing) radial beams. Equatorial girdle without radial beams, nearly as broad as the disk; its circular pores of the same size as those of the disk; about two pores on the breadth of each ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (without the girdle, with four rings) 0.11; breadth of each ring 0.012; breadth of the girdle 0.06 to 0.1; pores 0.004.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Sicily.

All rings of the disk (three to four) concentric, circular (sometimes partly concentric, circular, partly spiral, or irregular), with interrupted (not piercing) radial beams. Equatorial girdle without radial beams, about half as broad as the disk; its circular pores very small, scarcely half as large as those of the disk; about three pores on the breadth of each ring. (Very variable in the ring-form, differs from the preceding in the small pores of the girdle.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (without the girdle, with three rings) 0.11; breadth of each ring 0.02, pores 0.004, breadth of the girdle 0.05, pores 0.002.

Discospira accrescens, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 114, Taf. vi. fig. 5.

All rings of the disk (six to seven) not concentric, convoluted in a simple spiral, of nearly equal breadth, with interrupted (not piercing) radial beams. Equatorial girdle in the proximal part with numerous radial beams, which do not reach its margin; its pores half as large as those of the disk, where one to two pores arise on the breadth of each ring. (The girdle becomes twice to three times as broad as in the figure of Stöhr.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with seven rings, without the girdle) 0.13; breadth of each ring 0.007 to 0.01; pores 0.0036; breadth of the girdle 0.05, pores of it 0.0017.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily, Grotte (Stöhr), Caltanisetta (Haeckel); living in the Central Pacific, Station 266, depth 2750 fathoms.

Perichlamydium spirale, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 80, Taf. xxii. fig. 12.

All rings of the disk (three to four) not concentric, convoluted in a simple spiral, of increasing breadth from the centre; connected by numerous piercing radial beams. Equatorial girdle about {500}half as broad as the disk, without radial beams; its pores of the same size as those of the disk, regular, circular; three pores on the breadth of the first ring, six pores of the fourth ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings, without the girdle) 0.12; breadth of the first ring 0.01, of the fourth 0.02; breadth of the girdle 0.05; pores 0.003.

Subfamily 3. Ommatodiscida, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontographica, vol. xxvi. p. 115.

Definition.—Porodiscida without radial appendages of the concentrically annulated disk, but distinguished by one single or two opposite large marginal oscula, or wide openings on the margin of the disk, armed with a coronet of spines.

Genus 216. Ommatodiscus,^[255] Stöhr, 1880, Palæontographica, vol. xxvi. p. 115.

Definition.—Porodiscida without chambered arms and radial spines on the margin of the circular or elliptical disk, but with one large marginal osculum or opening surrounded by a coronet of spines.

The genus Ommatodiscus, together with the following Stomatodiscus, form the peculiar small subfamily of Ommatodiscida, founded by Stöhr in 1880 (loc. cit.). These remarkable Porodiscida, very nearly allied to Porodiscus, are distinguished by one or two large openings on the margin of the disk, and these "marginal oscula" are constantly armed with a coronet of spines (comparable to the osculum coronatum of Sycon in the Calcispongiæ). Probably in the living Ommatodiscida the osculum is the door from which a "sarcode-flagellum" issues (comp. above, p. 407). Perhaps this osculum is comparable to the peculiar coronet of spines which is developed on one pole of the shell axis in some Ellipsida (Lithomespilus, Lithapium). The internal structure of the disk is commonly more or less obscure, as the lenticular disk is much thickened, sometimes nearly ellipsoidal. It is possible that the Ommatodiscida are more nearly related to the Lithelida than to the Porodiscida; but there is no indication of an internal trizonal medullary shell. Also the apparent resemblance to the Cyrtida is of no morphological value; both groups are of quite independent phylogenetic origin.

Subgenus 1. Ommatodiscinus, Haeckel.

Ommatodiscus decipiens, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 115, Taf. vi. figs. 8, 8a.

Disk circular, with two chambered rings around the spherical central chamber, of equal breadth. Chambers twice as high as broad. Pores very small, one-third as broad as the bars {501}between them, two on the breadth of each ring. Osculum of the same breadth as the central chamber, surrounded by numerous very short teeth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12; breadth of the central chamber and of each ring 0.03; pores 0.0015.

Disk circular with three chambered rings around the spherical central chamber, of equal breadth. Chambers broader than high. Pores of the same breadth as the bars between them, four on the breadth of each ring. Osculum of the same breadth as the central chamber, surrounded by a corona of ten to twenty thin, bristle-shaped teeth, as long as its diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2; breadth of the central chamber and of each ring 0.03; pores 0.004.

Disk circular, with four circular chambered rings around the spherical central chamber, of increasing breadth; the fourth ring twice as broad as the second. Chambers about as broad as high. Pores large, twice as broad as the bars, one to two on the breadth of each ring. Osculum twice as broad as the central chamber, surrounded by a coronal of strong conical teeth, twice as long as its diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18; breadth of the central chamber and inner rings 0.015, of the outer rings 0.03; pores 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Ommatodisculus, Haeckel.

Ommatodiscus haeckelii, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 115, Taf. vi. figs. 7, 7a.

Disk elliptical (6 : 7), with four chambered rings around the elliptical central chamber, of equal breadth. Chambers about as high as broad. Pores small, half as broad as the bars, two on the breadth of each ring. Osculum three times as broad as the central chamber, surrounded by a crown of strong conical teeth.

Dimensions.—Length of the disk 0.18, breadth 0.16; breadth of each ring and of the central chamber 0.02; pores 0.003.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily, Grotte (Stöhr), Caltanisetta (Haeckel).

Ommatodiscus lævigatus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 116, Taf. vi. figs. 9, 9a.

Disk elliptical (3 : 4), with three chambered rings around the circular central chamber, the third ring half as broad as the second. Chambers twice as high as broad. Pores very small, one-third as broad as the bars. Osculum twice as broad as the central chamber, armed with a crown of short conical teeth.

Dimensions.—Length of the disk 0.15, breadth 0.11; breadth of inner rings 0.02, of the outer 0.01; pores 0.0017.

Ommatodiscus fragilis, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 116, Taf. vi. figs. 10, 10a.

Disk elliptical (4 : 5), with five chambered rings around the elliptical central chamber, the fifth ring twice as broad as each of the others. Chambers about as high as broad. Pores very small, one-fifth as broad as the bars. Osculum three times as broad as the central chamber, surrounded by a coronet of short teeth.

Dimensions.—Length of the disk 0.17, breadth 0.13; breadth of the inner rings 0.01, of the outer 0.02; pores 0.001.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily and Barbados; living in depths of the Tropical Atlantic and Pacific, Station 353, depth 2965 fathoms, Station 265, depth 2900 fathoms, &c.

Genus 217. Stomatodiscus,^[256] n. gen.

Definition.—Porodiscida without chambered arms and radial spines on the margin of the circular or elliptical disk, but with two large, opposite, marginal oscula, or openings surrounded by a coronet of spines.

The genus Stomatodiscus has the same characteristic structure as the foregoing Ommatodiscus, and differs from it only in the duplication of the large marginal openings. Whilst in the latter there is only one such marginal osculum, here we find on the margin of the disk two oscula, opposite on the poles of one equatorial axis.

Disk circular, with three concentric rings of equal breadth around the central chamber. Pores irregular, roundish, about two on the breadth of each ring. Surface of the lenticular shell spiny. On two opposite points of the margin a large osculum, three to four times as broad as the central chamber, armed with a coronet of strong pyramidal spines of different length, the longest equal to the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with three rings) 0.12; breadth of each ring 0.016; pores 0.004.

Disk elliptical, nearly twice as long as broad, with three concentric rings around the elliptical central chamber, one piercing radial beam in the main axis, the other beams interrupted. Surface of the shell with small scattered thorns. Pores very irregular, roundish, partly aggregated in groups of four to eight smaller porules. On both poles of the main axis a large elliptical marginal osculum, about as large as the central chamber, armed with a coronet of short conical spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the disk (with three rings) 0.18, breadth 0.1; pores 0.001 to 0.006.

Subfamily 4. Stylodictyida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Definition.—Porodiscida with solid radial spines on the margin of the concentrically annulated disk, situated in the equatorial plane of the disk (without chambered arms and marginal oscula).

Genus 218. Xiphodictya,^[257] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with two opposite, solid, radial spines on the margin of the circular or elliptical disk.

The genus Xiphodictya opens the series of the Stylodictyida or of those Porodiscida in which the margin of the chambered disk is armed with solid radial spines, all situated in the equatorial plane of the disk. Xiphodictya exhibits the minimum number of spines, two being opposite on the poles of one equatorial axis of the disk. It repeats, therefore, in this family the same amphistylic formation as Sethostylus in the Phacodiscida and Stylocyclia in the Coccodiscida.

Subgenus 1. Xiphodictyon, Haeckel.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of equal breadth. Pores irregular, roundish, one and a half to two on the breadth of each ring. Margin of the disk thorny, of the same thickness as {504}the central part of the medal-shaped or cylindrical disk. Two opposite radial spines very long and thin, cylindrical, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the disk, only half as thick as the breadth of one ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.17; breadth of each ring 0.014; pores 0.003 to 0.012.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, with increasing breadth from the centre; the fifth ring twice as broad as the second. Central chamber very large. Margin of the lenticular disk thorny, much thinner than the central part. Pores irregular, roundish, two to three on the breadth of each ring. Two opposite radial spines club-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the disk, in the outer spindle-shaped part three to four times as broad as at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.17; breadth of the second ring 0.008, of the fifth ring 0.016.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 265, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily (Caltanisetta).

Subgenus 2. Xiphospira, Haeckel.

Definition.—All rings of the disk or a part of them not concentric, spirally convoluted; sometimes irregular or interrupted.

All rings of the disk not concentric, half spiral. Four radial beams, crossed perpendicularly and zigzag-shaped, divide each ring into four quadrants; the quarter-ring of each quadrant halves the two adjacent rings. All rings of equal breadth. Pores irregular, roundish, two on the breadth of each ring. Two opposite radial spines pyramidal, somewhat shorter than the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.16; breadth of each ring: 0.014; pores 0.003 to 0.007.

All rings of the disk not concentric, convoluted in a simple, regular, spiral line; all nearly of equal breadth. Pores subregular, circular, two on the breadth of each ring. Two opposite radial spines conical, about as long as the radius of the disk. Margin of the disk thorny. (Differs from Stylodictya heliospira, Pl. 41, fig. 8, mainly by the two strong, opposite, radial spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.14; breadth of each ring 0.01 to 0.012; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Genus 219. Tripodictya,^[258] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with three solid, equidistant, radial spines on the margin of the circular or triangular disk.

The genus Tripodictya exhibits three radial spines on the margin of the disk, divergent at equal angles; rarely in some specimens the angles differ more or less. Perhaps this genus bears a near relation to the Dictyastrida (or to the Euchitonida with three chambered arms—Dictyastrum, Euchitonia, &c.).

All rings of the disk concentric, triangular, with three equal convex sides, all of the same breadth; first and second rings with three simple chambers, third and fourth rings with six chambers, fifth ring with twelve chambers. Central chamber also equilateral triangular, from its three corners arise three piercing perradial beams; from the second ring arise three interradial beams, alternate with the latter; from the fourth ring between these and the former arise six adradial beams. Pores subregular, two on the breadth of each ring. Three marginal spines pyramidal, as long as the radius of the disk and as broad as one ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.11; breadth of each ring 0.011; pores 0.004.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of the some breadth, connected by very numerous irregular radial beams, the number of which increases towards the periphery. Pores irregular, roundish, two on the breadth of each ring. Three marginal spines spindle-shaped, as long as the radius of the disk, and in the middle part as broad as one ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.2; breadth of each ring 0.012; pores 0.004.

All rings of the disk, or a part of them, not concentric, spirally convoluted, of equal breadth, connected by numerous irregular, interrupted radial beams, the number of which increases from the centre. (In one marginal view of the disk, Pl. 42, fig. 9, the disk seemed to be composed of seven {506}parallel chambered plates in the central part, and five similar plates in the peripheral part.) Pores irregular, roundish, three on the breadth of each ring. Three marginal spines long and thin, cylindrical (as in Staurodictya cruciata, Pl. 42, fig, 4), longer than the diameter of the disk, and half as thick as one ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with nine rings) 0.18; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.002 to 0.004.

Genus 220. Staurodictya,^[259] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four solid radial spines (commonly crossed at right angles) on the margin of the circular or quadrangular disk.

The genus Staurodictya is characterised by four marginal spines, lying opposite in pairs in two crossed equatorial diameters of the disk, perpendicular one to another. Sometimes the regular rectangular position of the spines becomes more or less irregular. Commonly the marginal spines are the extreme prolongations of four internal crossed radial beams, which are either rectilinear or zigzag-shaped. In the latter case the concentric disposition of the circular rings becomes more or less spiral. Perhaps Staurodictya has a near relation to the Stauralastrida (or to the Euchitonida with four crossed chambered arms—Stauralastrum, Histiastrum, &c.).

Subgenus 1. Staurodictyon, Haeckel.

Definition.—All rings of the disk concentric (commonly circular, sometimes with four incisions, produced by two crossed constrictions, or nearly square).

All rings of the disk concentric, of nearly equal breadth, divided into four quadrants by two perradial constrictions (perpendicular one to another). Pores irregular, roundish, two to three on the breadth of each ring. Four marginal spines strong, pyramidal, nearly as long as the radius of the disk. Margin between them denticulated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.13; breadth of each ring 0.015; pores 0.002 to 0.01.

All rings of the disk concentric, of nearly equal breadth, circular or roundish, without perradial constrictions. Pores subregular, circular, three to four on the breadth of each ring. Four marginal {507}spines short, pyramidal, about as long as the breadth of one ring. Margin between them ciliated, with thin radial bristles.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.13; breadth of each ring 0.015; pores 0.0025.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, or roundish, of increasing breadth towards the margin; the fifth ring twice as broad as the first. Pores irregular, roundish, two to three on the breadth of each ring. Four marginal spines very large, conical, with a thin pedicle at the base, cancellated by ten to twelve deep furrows, about as long as the radius of the disk and three times as long as broad at the base (above the pedicle). Margin between them ciliated, with numerous short radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.14; breadth of the inner rings 0.006, of the outer 0.012; pores 0.002 to 0.008.

Stylodictya quadrispina, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 496, Taf. xxix. fig. 4.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of increasing breadth towards the margin; the fourth ring twice as broad as the second. Pores irregular, roundish, two to three on the breadth of each ring. Four marginal spines short and thin, conical, about as long as the breadth of one ring. Margin between them smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.12; breadth of the inner rings 0.006, of the outer rings 0.012; pores 0.001 to 0.006.

Subgenus 2. Staurospira, Haeckel.

Definition.—All rings of the disk or a part of them not concentric, spirally convoluted; spiral line simple or double, sometimes half or irregular, interrupted.

All rings of the disk nearly of the same breadth, not concentric, half-spiral, interrupted by four zigzag-shaped radial beams crossed in two diameters perpendicular one to another. The quarter ring of each quadrant halving both neighbouring quarters. Pores irregular, roundish, two on the breadth of each ring. Pores of the outermost (eighth) ring much smaller than the others. Four marginal spines cylindrical or nearly spindle-shaped, thick, about as long as the radius of the disk. Margin between them smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.2; breadth of each ring 0.011; pores 0.004.

Stylodictya splendens, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxiii. fig. 9.

All rings of the disk nearly of the same breadth, not concentric, half-spiral, interrupted by four zigzag-shaped perradial beams, crossed in two diameters. The quarter ring of each quadrant halving both neighbouring quarters. Pores regular, circular, only one single on the breadth of each ring. Four marginal spines conical or spear-shaped, about half as long as the radius of the disk. Margin between them ciliated, with short bristle-shaped radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.2; breadth of each ring 0.012; pores 0.004.

All rings of the disk (twelve to sixteen) of the same breadth, not concentric, irregular, partly spiral, interrupted by irregular turnings, and by ramified radial beams, which divide each ring into numerous square chambers. Pores subregular, circular, only one single on the breadth of each ring (and on each chamber). Four marginal spines short and stout, conical, twice as long as broad at the base, four to five times as long as the breadth of one ring. Margin between them dentated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with sixteen rings) 0.3; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.005.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 265 to 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados.

Stylodictya ocellata, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxiii. fig. 7.

All rings of the disk irregular, not concentric, half-spiral, interrupted by four zigzag-shaped, crossed, radial beams; the quarter ring of each quadrant halving both neighbouring quarters. Breadth of the rings increasing towards the periphery; the fourth ring twice as broad as the second. Pores irregular, with increasing size from the centre, three on the breadth of each ring. Four marginal spines thick and long, cylindrical; margin between them smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.1; breadth of the inner rings 0.01, of the outer 0.02; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Stylodictya haeckelii, Zittel, 1876, L. N. 29, p. 85, Taf. ii. fig. 9, is a fossil Cretaceous species, related to Stylodictya multispina.

Genus 221. Stylodictya,^[260] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Porodiscida with numerous (five or more, commonly eight to twelve) solid radial spines, regularly or irregularly disposed on the margin of the circular or polygonal disk; margin simple, without a porous equatorial girdle.

The genus Stylodictya comprises the majority of this subfamily, in which the number of the marginal spines exceeds four. Commonly we find eight to twelve spines, more or less regularly disposed (four perradial and four interradial, or four perradial and eight adradial); but often also the number and disposition become irregular (sometimes very large). In my Monograph (1862 pp. 495, 515) I had separated the concentric disks with closed circular rings (as true Stylodictya, s. str.) from the spiral disks with convoluted rings (Stylospira). But I retain these two groups here only as two subgenera, as intermediate forms between them are very common, and often a part of the disk concentric, a part spiral (compare above, p. 492).

Subgenus 1. Stylodictyon, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 495.

Definition.—All rings of the disk concentric, commonly circular (rarely a little elliptical or polygonal).

Stylodictya gracilis, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvi. fig. 28.

Stylodictya gracilis, Ehrenberg, 1873, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 257; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, Taf. xxiii. fig. 3.

Stylodictya gracilis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 499.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of equal breadth (the first ring sometimes, but not constantly, four-lobed). Pores regular, circular, small, three on the breadth of each ring. Four perradial beams (crossed in two perpendicular diameters) beginning from the circular central chamber, four interradial beams from the first or second ring (sometimes others between them). Beams prolonged into eight to twelve (or more) marginal spines, bristle-shaped, as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.12; breadth of each ring 0.013; pores 0.0025.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Nicobar; living in the depths of the Pacific and Atlantic.

Stylodictya multispina, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 496, Taf. xxix. fig. 5.

Stylodictya forbesii, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 160, Taf. xxiii. fig. 6.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of equal breadth. Pores regular, circular, two and a half to three on the breadth of each ring. Eight to twelve radial beams beginning from the central chamber, others from the inner rings. Commonly from the third or fourth ring arise twenty-four to thirty (sometimes forty or more) piercing beams, which are prolonged at the margin into bristle-shaped radial spines, as long as the breadth of two to four rings.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with seven rings) 0.2; breadth of each ring 0.013; pores 0.004.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface and various depths.

Stylodictya hastata, Ehrenberg, 1873, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 257; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, Taf. xxiii. fig. 5.

Stylodictya gracilis, Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. ii. fig. 1.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of equal breadth. Pores regular, circular, very small, two on the breadth of each ring. Eight to twelve marginal spines very large, spear-shaped, sulcated, pyramidal, nearly as long as the diameter of the disk, with a thin pedicle at the base, above this as thick as the breadth of one ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.13; breadth of each ring 0.012; pores 0.003.

Stylodictya stellata, Bailey, 1856, Amer. Journ., vol. xxii. p. 6, pl. i. fig. 20.

Stylodictya stellata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 499.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of equal breadth. Pores regular, circular, very small, two on the breadth of each ring. Marginal spines fourteen (probably variable in number, twelve to sixteen), very thick and short, conical; their length seems to be equal to their basal breadth and to the breadth of one ring. Related to Stylochlamydium?

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.11; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.003.

Habitat.—North Pacific, depths of the Kamtschatka Sea, Bailey; Station 241, depth 2300 fathoms.

Stylodictya arachnia, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 497.

Stylocyclia arachnia, J. Müller, 1856, p. 492; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1858, p. 41, Taf. i. figs. 8, 9.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, or polygonal; their breadth increases from the centre towards the periphery, so that the fourth or fifth ring is twice as broad as the second. Pores {511}subregular, circular, two on the breadth of each ring. Radial beams partly piercing. Marginal spines eight to sixteen (commonly twelve), bristle-shaped, very thin, once to three times as long as the diameter of the disk. (On the numerous varieties of this common species compare my Monograph, 1862, p. 498.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with ten rings) 0.22; breadth of the inner rings 0.004 to 0.008, of the outer 0.012 to 0.015; pores 0.003 to 0.005.

All rings of the disk concentric, polygonal, with eight to sixteen rounded corners; their breadth increases from the centre; eighth ring twice as broad as the second. Pores subregular circular, large, only one pore on the breadth of each ring. Twenty to thirty marginal spines, bristle-shaped, undulating, about as long as (or longer than) the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.2; breadth of the inner rings 0.005, of the outer 0.012; pores 0.004 to 0.008.

All rings of the disk concentric, increasing in breadth from the centre. The outer rings (five to eight) regular, octogonal, twice as broad as the circular inner rings. Pores subregular, circular, two to three on the breadth of each ring. Eight piercing perradial spines (alternating with the eight corners of the octogonal rings) bristle-shaped, longer than the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.24; breadth of the inner rings 0.006, of the outer 0.014; pores 0.005 to 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Stylodictula, Haeckel.

Definition.—Rings of the disk partly concentric, completely annular; partly spiral or interrupted, often irregular.

Inner rings of the disk (two to four) concentric, circular, or roundish, outer rings forming a simple spiral, breadth a little increasing from the centre. Pores subregular, circular, about two on the breadth of each ring. Marginal spines bristle-shaped, ten to fifteen, about as long as the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with eight rings) 0.2; breadth of each ring 0.013; pores 0.004.

Inner rings of the disk (three or four) convoluted in a simple or double spiral, often interrupted or irregular; outer rings (two to three) concentric, circular, or roundish. Breadth of the rings variable, irregular. Pores irregular, of very different sizes, in the outer concentric part twice to four times as large as in the inner spiral part. Radial beams partly interrupted, partly piercing. Marginal spines fifty to eighty, very variable in size and number, commonly fifteen to twenty strong conical spines, twice to three times as long as the ring-breadth, and numerous (thirty to sixty) smaller spines. Very variable.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with seven rings) 0.2; breadth of the rings 0.01 to 0.02; pores 0.002 to 0.01.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 263 to 274, depth 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Stylodictya setigera, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxiii. fig. 4.

Inner rings of the disk (two to three) convoluted in a simple or double spiral, outer rings (two to three) concentric, circular, or roundish. Breadth of the rings nearly equal. Pores regular, circular, three on the breadth of each ring. Marginal spines twenty to forty, bristle-shaped, about twice as long as the ring-breadth. (The specimen figured by Ehrenberg was a young one; in older specimens I found the inner spiral disk surrounded by two to three concentric circular rings.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.16; breadth of the rings 0.12; pores 0.003.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados; also living in the depths of the Central Pacific, Station 266, depth 2750 fathoms.

Subgenus 3. Stylospira, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 515.

Definition.—All rings of the disk convoluted in a simple or double spiral (sometimes also in quartered half-spirals).

Stylospira heliospira, Haeckel, 1879, MS.

All rings of the disk convoluted in a simple regular spiral, increasing in breadth from the centre towards the periphery; the sixth ring twice as broad as the second. Pores irregular, roundish, two on the breadth of each ring. Marginal spines numerous, thirty to forty, bristle-shaped, nearly half as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with seven rings) 0.16; breadth of the inner rings 0.008, of the outer 0.016; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, Portofino near Genoa, surface; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily; Caltanisetta, Haeckel.

Stylospira arachnia, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 59, Taf. vi. fig. 8.

All rings of the disk convoluted in a simple regular spiral, with increasing breadth from the centre; the fifth ring twice as broad as the second. Pores regular, circular, two on the breadth of each ring. Twelve piercing radial beams and some others interrupted, prolonged into twelve to twenty radial marginal spines, bristle-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.15; breadth of the second ring 0.01, of the fifth 0.02; pores 0.006.

Stylospira dujardinii, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 515, Taf. xxix. figs. 9, 10.

All rings of the disk convoluted in a simple regular spiral, of nearly equal breadth. Pores regular, circular, two on the breadth of each ring. Very numerous (twenty to thirty or more) piercing radial beams, prolonged into bristle-shaped marginal spines, about as long as the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.12; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.004.

Stylodictya echinastrum, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxiii. fig. 1.

All rings of the disk convoluted in a double spiral, of nearly equal breadth. Pores irregular, roundish, two to three on the breadth of each ring. Marginal spines numerous, twenty to thirty, of very different size, the largest conical, strong, about as long as the diameter of the disk, and on the base as broad as one ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.12; breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.002 to 0.006.

Stylodictya clavata, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 84, Taf. xxiii. fig. 2.

All rings of the disk convoluted in a half spiral, of nearly equal breadth; each ring by four zigzag beams (crossed in two perpendicular diameters) divided into four equal quarters; the spiral line of each quarter ring halving both neighbouring quarters. Pores regular, circular, two on the breadth of each ring. Eight marginal spines short, conical, with thin pedicle; four perradial (as {514}prolongations of the four internal beams) alternating with four interradial spines arising from the margin of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.13; breadth of each ring 0.014; pores 0.003.

Genus 222. Stylochlamydium,^[261] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

The genus Stylochlamydium is intermediate between Perichlamydium (with which it was formerly united) and Stylodictya. It deals with the former in the peculiar equatorial girdle, with the latter in the radial spines of the disk margin, which pierce the girdle. To both these genera it shows slow transitions, and can hardly be subjected to a sharp definition.

Subgenus 1. Stylochlamys, Haeckel.

Definition.—All rings of the disk concentric, circular (or somewhat polygonal).

Perichlamydium asteriscus, Haeckel, 1879, MS.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, or polygonal, with increasing breadth from the centre; the fifth ring twice as broad as the second. Pores irregular, roundish, three to four on the breadth of each ring; in the rings two to six times as large as in the equatorial girdle, which is half as broad or two-thirds as broad as the radius of the disk. Twelve bristle-shaped radial spines are connected by the girdle near to the points; four crossed spines arising from the central chamber; two others between these in each quadrant arising from the first ring.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.15, with the girdle 0.25; breadth of the second ring 0.01, of the fifth ring 0.02; pores 0.001 to 0.005.

Perichlamydium limbatum, Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 43; Mikrogeol., 1854, Taf. xxii. fig. 20.

Perichlamydium limbatum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 494.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of equal breadth. Pores regular, circular, two on the breadth of each ring; twice to three times as large as the fine pores of the equatorial girdle, which is {515}about half as broad as the radius of the disk. Twelve (or eleven) bristle-shaped radial spines are connected by the girdle near to the points, irregularly disposed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with five rings) 0.12, with the girdle 0.2, breadth of each ring 0.01; pores 0.001 to 0.003.

Perichlamydium venustum, Bailey, 1856, Amer. Journ., vol. xxii. p. 5, pl. i. figs. 16, 17.

Perichlamydium venustum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 495.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, of equal breadth. Pores regular, circular, everywhere of nearly equal size, three on the breadth of each ring, a little smaller in the equatorial girdle, which is about as broad as the radius of the disk. Twenty to twenty-four bristle-shaped radial spines, irregularly disposed, proceed with their free points over the margin.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with four rings) 0.1, with the girdle 0.3; breadth of each ring 0.011; pores 0.002.

Perichlamydium æquale, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 109, pl. v. fig. 2.

All rings of the disk concentric, circular, with increasing breadth from the centre; the sixth ring twice as broad as the second. Pores regular, circular, everywhere of equal size; on the breadth of the inner rings one, of the outer two, of the girdle three pores. Girdle only one-fourth as broad as the radius of the disk. About twenty bristle-shaped radial spines, irregularly disposed, are connected by the girdle near to the points.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.11, with the girdle 0.17; breadth of the second ring 0.006, of the sixth 0.013; pores 0.006.

Subgenus 2. Stylochlamyum, Haeckel.

Definition.—Rings of the disk all (or in part) not concentric, spirally convoluted or irregular.

Perichlamydium limbatum, var. Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 109, Taf. v. fig. 1.

Inner rings of the disk concentric, circular, outer rings convoluted spirally, all rings of equal breadth. Pores regular, circular, two on the breadth of each ring, twice as large as in the equatorial {516}girdle, which is about half as broad as the radius of the disk. Twelve to sixteen bristle-shaped radial spines, irregularly disposed, are connected by the girdle near to the points.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with six rings) 0.12, with the girdle 0.2; breadth of each ring 0.011; pores in the central disk 0.004, in the girdle 0.002.

Perichlamydium spongiosum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi, p. 109, Taf. v. fig. 3.

Rings of the disk partly concentric, partly spiral, more or less irregular and often interrupted, with increasing breadth from the centre. Central part of the disk more or less spongy and obscure. Equatorial girdle half as broad as the radius of the chambered disk, with smaller pores than the latter, pierced by twenty to thirty thin, bristle-shaped radial beams, which proceed over the margin of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk (with ten rings) 0.2, with the girdle 0.3; breadth of the rings 0.005 to 0.015; pores 0.001 to 0.005.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Sicily.

Subfamily 5. Euchitonida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Porodiscida with two or more (commonly three or four) radial chambered or spongy arms on the margin of the concentrically annulated disk, situated in its equatorial plane (with or without a connecting patagium between the arms).

Genus 223. Amphibrachium,^[262] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with two simple, undivided, chambered arms, opposite in one axis, without a patagium.

The genus Amphibrachium opens the long series of the Euchitonida, or of those Porodiscida which bear on the margin of the circular central disk a certain number of chambered arms, composed of a series of chambers which are separated by transverse septa. The first group or tribe of this subfamily is formed by the Amphibrachida, in which the disk bears only two arms opposite on the poles of one axis. The simplest form of these is Amphibrachium, in which both arms are simple, equal, and without a patagium or spongy connecticulum.

Subgenus 1. Amphibrachella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both arms equal, of the same form and size, blunt at the distal end, without a terminal spine.

Both opposite arms of the same form and size, nearly cylindrical, three times as long as broad, with six to eight transverse septa or joints, at the distal end rounded, blunt, without a terminal spine.

Both arms equal, lanceolate, in the middle part three times as broad as at the two ends, two and a half times as long as broad, with eight to nine transverse septa, at the distal end blunt, without a terminal spine.

Both arms equal, trapezoidal, somewhat broader than long, on the convex distal end three times as broad as on the narrow base, with five to six transverse septa, without a terminal spine. Central disk large, somewhat irregular, with three to four rings, twice as broad as the base of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.32, basal breadth 0.15, terminal breadth 0.44.

Subgenus 2. Amphibrachidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both arms equal, of the same size and form, with terminal spines.

Both arms equal, lanceolate, in the middle part four times as broad as at the two ends, twice as long as broad; on the distal end of each arm is a long conical spine.

Both arms equal, club-shaped, three times as long as broad, in the outer distal half thickened, three times as broad as at the narrow base; on the distal end of each arm a strong, angular, terminal spine. (The form of the arms like that of Stephanastrum capitatum, Pl. 44, fig. 1.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.22, basal breadth 0.02, terminal breadth 0.06.

Both arms equal, four times as long as broad, in the thickened distal part twice as broad as at the base, thorny, with twenty to thirty larger spines on the distal end, and a very large pyramidal spine in the longitudinal axis. (The form of the arms like that of the odd arm in Euchitonia carcinus, Pl. 43, fig. 10.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.24, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.06.

Subgenus 3. Amphibrachoma, Haeckel.

Both arms club-shaped, but very different in size and form; larger arm three times as long and twice as broad as the smaller arm; the larger with nine joints slowly increasing in size, the smaller with four joints, rapidly increasing; the terminal joint three times as broad as the basal. Distal end blunt, rounded, without spines.

Dimensions.—Radius of the larger arm 0.24, of the smaller 0.08; distal breadth of the former 0.06, of the latter 0.03; basal breadth 0.015.

Subgenus 4. Amphibrachura, Haeckel.

Both arms different in size and form; larger arm club-shaped, four times as long as broad, at the distal end three times as broad as at the base, and twice as long as the smaller arm, which resembles a stalked knob, with thin basal peduncle and spherical distal part. Ends of the two arms {519}thorny (with numerous smaller, and three to five larger spines); one very large conical terminal spine on each pole of the main axis.

Dimensions.—Radius of the larger arm 0.3, of the smaller 0.15; distal breadth of the former 0.06, of the latter 0.04; basal breath 0.02.

Genus 224. Amphymenium,^[263] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with two simple, undivided, chambered arms, opposite in one axis, connected by a patagium.

The genus Amphymenium differs from the preceding Amphibrachium, its ancestral form, by development of a patagium or connecticulum between both arms. This forms a latticed or more spongy envelop, which surrounds either the middle part of the shell, or the whole shell with exception of the distal ends of both arms. If the envelop become very spongy, the shell may be confounded with the cylindrical Ellipside Spongocore (nearly allied to Spongurus); possibly also Ommatogramma of Ehrenberg belongs to this genus.

Subgenus 1. Ommatogramma, Ehrenberg (?).

Definition.—Both opposite arms of the same size and form, blunt, without terminal spines.

Both arms equal, twice as long as broad, three-jointed; the terminal joint egg-shaped, as large as both other joints together; distal end rounded, blunt. Patagium nearly complete, enveloping the arms with exception of the distal end. Perimeter nearly spindle-shaped.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.17, greatest breadth 0.06; transverse breadth of the patagium 0.13.

? Ommatogramma navicularis, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 317; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. vi. fig. 7.

Both arms equal, three times as long as broad, spongy, not jointed; distal end a little club-shaped, blunt. Patagium nearly complete, enveloping the arms with exception of the distal end. Perimeter nearly lanceolate. The imperfect diagnosis and figure of Ehrenberg make it doubtful {520}whether this species belongs to the Porodiscida (Amphymenium) or to the Spongodiscida (Spongobrachium) or perhaps to the Spongurida (Spongocore).

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.1, greatest breadth 0.03; transverse breadth of the patagium 0.05.

Both arms equal, four times as long as broad, with seven to eight joints, slowly decreasing in size towards the blunt end. Patagium incomplete, protecting only the middle part of the shell on both sides; on each side two parallel lattice-plates, connected by transverse radial beams, perpendicular to the surface. Perimeter nearly rectilinear. (Resembles much certain forms of Zygartus, Pl. 40, but is a true Discoid, no Prunoid.) Compare also Pl. 45, fig. 8.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.2, greatest breadth 0.05; transverse breadth of the patagium 0.11.

Both arms equal, little longer than broad, with six to seven convex joints. The axis of both arms is not common and straight, as in all other species of this genus, but broken, therefore the incomplete patagium, which envelops only two to three joints of the arms, is on one side convex, on the other side concave; it is formed by a simple lattice-plate, connected with the arms by numerous radial beams. This anomalous form, seen only once, may perhaps be a monstrosity of Euchitonia.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.12, greatest breadth 0.06; transverse breadth of the patagium 0.13.

Subgenus 2. Ommathymenium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both opposite arms of the same size and form, armed at the distal end with terminal spines.

Both arms equal, three times as long as broad, thickened towards the truncated distal end, and armed with a strong pyramidal terminal spine. Each arm with seven joints, separated by convex, transverse septa, and halved by a radial beam lying in the longitudinal axis. Patagium incomplete, cylindrical, enveloping only the middle part of the shell.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.18, greatest breadth 0.06; transverse breadth of the patagium 0.08.

Both arms equal, lanceolate, three times as long as broad in the width, with seven to eight joints. Distal end pointed, armed with a strong conical terminal spine. Patagium complete, enveloping the whole shell with exception of the terminal spines. Whole form spindle-shaped.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.2, greatest breadth 0.07; transverse breadth of the patagium 0.15.

Genus 225. Amphirrhopalum,^[264] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with two chambered arms, opposite in one axis, without a patagium; one arm or both forked at the distal end.

The genus Amphirrhopalum differs from Amphibrachium, its ancestral form, by bifurcation of the distal ends of the arms, which may affect either both arms, or only one of them.

Subgenus 1. Amphirrhopalium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both opposite arms of similar size and form, with blunt branches, without terminal spines.

Both arms equal, in the proximal half simple, in the distal half forked, with six to seven transverse septa; distal end of each branch blunt, without terminal spine, somewhat broader than the base of the whole arm. Axis of the branches concavely curved. (Resembles Amphicraspedum maclaganium, Pl. 45, fig. 11, but wants the patagium.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.18, basal breadth 0.065; terminal breadth of each branch 0.075.

Both arms equal, in the proximal half simple, in the distal half forked, with irregular septa; distal end of each arm blunt, without a terminal spine, smaller than the basal breadth of the arm. Axis of the branches straight. (Resembles Dicranastrum furcatum, Pl. 47, fig. 2, but without lateral arms.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.15, basal breadth 0.03; terminal breadth of each branch 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Amphirrhopella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both opposite arms of similar size and form, with terminal spines.

Both arms equal, in the proximal larger half simple, in the distal smaller half forked; each branch triangular, with a strong conical terminal spine. Axis of the branches straight. (Resembles Dicranastrum cornutum, Pl. 45, fig. 2, but without lateral arms.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms (without spines) 0.15, basal breadth 0.03; breadth of the bifurcation 0.08.

Both arms equal, in the proximal smaller half simple, nearly square, in the distal larger half forked; the branches thorny, armed at the end with numerous spines, one larger on the terminal pole of the concavely curved arm-axis.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms (without spines) 0.15, basal breadth 0.05; breadth of branches 0.03.

Subgenus 3. Amphirrhopoma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both opposite arms of different size or form, without terminal spines.

Both arms very different. Larger arm simple, egg-shaped, twice as long as broad; smaller arm in the basal half simple, nearly square, in the distal half forked; both branches egg-shaped, blunt. (Resembles Amphicraspedum wyvilleanum, Pl. 45, fig. 12, but wants the patagium.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the larger simple arm 0.18, breadth 0.09; radius of the smaller forked arm 0.15, breadth of its branches 0.05.

Genus 226. Amphicraspedum,^[265] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with two chambered arms, opposite in one axis, connected by a lateral patagium; one arm or both forked at the distal end.

The genus Amphicraspedum exhibits the same bifurcation of the arms as does Amphirrhopalum, but differs from this ancestral form in the development of a patagium, an external connecticulum between the arms, which envelops the disk totally or partially.

Subgenus 1. Amphicraspedon, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both arms of equal size and form, without terminal spines of the branches.

Both arms equal, in the proximal half simple, in the distal half forked, with six to seven transverse septa; distal end of each branch rounded, blunt, somewhat broader than the base of the whole arm. Divergent axes of both branches concavely curved. Patagium incomplete, with elliptical perimeter, enveloping only the middle part of the shell. I call this interesting species in honour of Miss Nellie Maclagan, the learned translator of several zoological papers from German into English.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.25, basal breadth 0.07; distal breadth of each branch 0.08; equatorial breadth of the patagium 0.25.

Subgenus 2. Amphicraspedina, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both arms of different size or form, without terminal spines on the branches.

Both arms different. Larger arm simple, egg-shaped, with eleven convex joints, one and a half times as long as broad; smaller arm in the basal half simple, triangular, with six cap-like joints, in the distal half forked; both branches egg-shaped, with five joints and blunt ends. Patagium nearly complete with four to five concave chamber-rows. Called in honour of Sir C. Wyville Thomson.

Dimensions.—Radius of the larger simple arm 0.18, breadth 0.08; radius of the smaller forked arm 0.16; breadth of the branches 0.05; transverse breadth of the patagium 0.2.

Subgenus 3. Amphicraspedula, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both arms of different size or form, with terminal spines of the branches.

Amphymenium murrayanum, Haeckel, 1879, MS. et Atlas (pl. xliv. fig. 10).

Both arms different in size; the larger one and a half times as long and broad as the smaller. Both arms triangular, forked at the broader distal end, with two very strong, conical, divergent, {524}straight terminal spines. Patagium broad, incomplete, with circular perimeter. Called in honour of my friend Dr. John Murray.

Dimensions.—Radius of the larger arm (including the spines) 0.24, of the smaller 0.16; distance of the terminal points of the former 0.18, of the latter 0.09; diameter of the patagium 0.2.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel, Gulf Stream, surface, John Murray.

Genus 227. Dictyastrum,^[266] Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 830.

Definition.—Porodiscida with three simple, undivided, chambered arms, without a patagium; triangular shell regular, with three equal arms and three equal angles.

The genus Dictyastrum is the simplest form of the Trigonastrida, or of the Porodiscida, in which the margin of the central disk is furnished with three chambered arms. In Dictyastrum these are quite simple and regular, without a patagium, separated by equal angles, so that the whole shell represents a regular, equilateral triangle, if we connect the distal points of the arms by lines. The genus Dictyastrum, founded by Ehrenberg in 1860, differs from his Rhopalodictyum—after his own diagnosis—only by an insignificant difference in the form of the simple arms, which is scarcely a specific character. I therefore apply this name here in the above amended sense, seeing that the only figured species of Ehrenberg (Dictyastrum angulatum) occurs in two different, but externally very similar forms: one of these is a true Porodiscid (Dictyastrum) with two porous covering-plates and concentric rings; the other is a true Spongodiscid (Rhopalodictyum) with quite spongy, irregular network, and is probably identical with the Rhopalodictyum truncatum of Ehrenberg.

Subgenus 1. Dictyastrella, Haeckel.

Dictyastrum angulatum, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 289, Taf. viii. fig. 18.

Arms nearly square with straight edges, towards the truncated end a little broader, about the same diameter as the triangular central disk. The figure of Ehrenberg seems to represent a Spongodiscid (Rhopalodictyum angulatum), but in the same locality (Philippine Sea) occurs also a true Dictyastrum of quite the same form, but with three to four concentric rings of the central disk, and with jointed arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm (length from the centre to the distal end) 0.13; breadth of the truncated end 0.1.

Rhopalastrum bandaicum, Harting, 1863, Mikr. Fauna Banda-Zee, p. 16, Taf. iii. fig. 45.

Arms nearly square, with convex edges, in the middle a little broader than at both ends, about half the diameter of the central disk. Differs from the nearly allied preceding species by the half size of the arms and the convex edges.

Rhopalastrum hexagonum, Haeckel, 1880, Atlas (pl. xliii. fig. 1).

Arms nearly triangular, one and a third times as broad at the distal end as long, and three times as broad as at the base. Central disk about the same diameter. In each arm six simple broad chambers. If we connect the six corners of the truncated distal ends by straight lines, we get a regular hexagon.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.17, basal breadth 0.06, terminal breadth 0.17.

Arms club-shaped, five times as long as broad at the base, at the thickened end three times as broad as at the base. Diameter of the central disk equals half the length of the arms. (Similar to Rhopalastrum malleus, Pl. 43, fig. 1, but with three equal angles and much smaller disk.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.25, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.12.

Subgenus 2. Dictyastromma, Haeckel.

Rhopalastrum trispinosum, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xliii. fig. 5).

Arms trapezoid, at the rounded distal end twice as broad as at the base, with a strong and short, conical, terminal spine. Diameter of the circular central disk about equal to the length and the greatest breadth of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.15, basal breadth 0.06, distal breadth 0.11.

Dictyastrum triactis, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 306.

Arms rectilinear, four times as long as broad, with parallel edges, pointed at the distal end, with a short terminal spine. Diameter of the circular central disk equal to double the breadth of the arms.

Arms lanceolate, three times as long as broad, twice as broad in the middle as at either end, with thorny surface and numerous conical terminal spines, one very large in the radius. Central disk triangular, about as broad as the arms. (Resembles Rhopalastrum arcticum, Pl. 43, fig. 6, but differs by the equal angles and the triangular disk.)

Genus 228. Rhopalastrum,^[267] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Porodiscida with three simple undivided, chambered arms, without a patagium; triangular shell bilateral, one odd arm opposite to the odd angle between two paired arms.

The genus Rhopalastrum, founded by Ehrenberg (1847) with a very insufficient diagnosis, is here retained for those Trigonastrida that agree in the generic characters with the only species figured by him, viz., Rhopalastrum lagenosum (compare my Monograph, 1862, p. 500). It comprises, therefore, such Euchitonida as agree with the preceding Dictyastrum in the simple form of the three arms and the absence of a patagium, but differ from it in the different size of the three angles, and often also in the divergent form and size of the three arms; one odd arm is opposite to the odd angle between the two paired arms.

Subgenus 1. Rhopalastrella, Haeckel.

Rhopalastrum truncatum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 500, Taf. xxix. fig. 6.

Distance of both paired arms about half as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same form and size, very short and broad; their breadth nearly equals that of {527}the roundish central disk, whilst their length reaches only one-fourth of it. End of the arms convex rounded, without spines.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina), Atlantic (Canary Islands), surface, Haeckel.

Rhopalastrum pistillum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 110, Taf. v. fig. 4.

Distance between the paired arms about two-thirds as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same form and size, about three times as long as the diameter of the central disk, at the base one-third as broad as at the convex rounded end, without spines. Stöhr has only observed a fragment with one arm; some perfect specimens, which I found in the Caltanisetta-rock, exhibited nearly the same form as Rhopalastrum malleus (Pl. 43, fig. 1), but differ from this by the smaller disk, the broader arms, and the smaller angle between the paired arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.2; basal breadth of each arm 0.045, terminal breadth 0.13.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily, Grotte (Stöhr), Caltanisetta (Haeckel).

Distance between the paired arms one and a third times as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same form and size, hammer-shaped, three times as broad at the truncated distal end as at the base. Central disk broader than the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.25, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.15.

Rhopalastrum lagenosum, Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 43; Mikrogeol., 1854, Taf. xxii. fig. 22.

Rhopalastrum lagenosum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 501.

Flustrella bilobata, Ehrenberg, 1844, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 81.

Haliomma lagena, Ehrenberg, 1840, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 200.

Distance between the paired arms one and a half times as great as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same form and size, about one and a half times as long as the diameter of the central disk, at the base half as broad as at the convex rounded end, without spines. Ehrenberg has only observed a fragment with two paired arms; some perfect specimens with three arms, observed by me, differed from the nearly allied Rhopalastrum pistillum (from the same locality) by the larger disk, the broader arms, and the larger unpaired angle.

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.2, basal breadth 0.05, terminal breadth 0.09.

Distance between the paired arms half as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms at the concavely curved distal end three times as broad as at the narrow base. Odd arm twice as long and broad as the paired arms. Central disk smaller than the latter. No terminal spines.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.32, of the paired arms 0.2; terminal breadth of the former 0.2, of the latter 0.12.

Distance between the paired arms half as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms club-shaped, at the thickened, nearly spherical, distal end three times as broad as at the narrow base. Odd arm nearly twice as long and broad as the paired arms. Central disk equal to the distal knob of the latter. No terminal spines.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.3, of the paired arms 0.18; distal breadth of the former 0.16, of the latter 0.08.

Distance between all three arm-points different. All three arms cylindrical, nearly of the same length, but of different form, irregularly curved, about four times as long as broad, with blunt ends.

Subgenus 2. Rhopalastromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Arms on the distal end provided with one or more terminal spines.

Distance between all three arm-points nearly the same; but the odd arm is one and a half times as large as both paired arms, and is perpendicular to the common axis of the latter, therefore the shell has the form of a hammer. Each arm is twice as broad at the distal end as at the base, and armed with a conical terminal spine; the latter is vertical in the odd arm, horizontal in the paired arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.3, of the paired arms 0.15; distal breadth of the former 0.12, of the latter 0.06.

Distance between the paired arms about two-thirds as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms club-shaped, three times as broad at the thickened distal part as at the base, and armed with one single, conical, terminal spine. Odd arm of the same breadth, but twice as long as the paired arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.35, of the paired arms 0.2; basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.12.

Distance between the paired arms equals four-fifths of their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same size, about square, a little broader at the truncated distal end, which is armed at both corners with a strong, conical, radial spine.

Distance between the paired arms half as large as their distance from the odd arm, which is a little larger. All three arms of the same form, lanceolate, twice to three times as long as broad, twice as broad in the middle as at either end. Each arm with twelve to fourteen transverse septa, at the distal end with a bunch of conical spines, and one single, very large, pyramidal, terminal spine.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm (without spine) 0.17, greatest breadth of it 0.05 to 0.06.

Habitat.—Arctic Ocean, lat. 83° 19' N., North Polar expedition of the "Alert."

Genus 229. Hymeniastrum,^[268] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Porodiscida with three simple, undivided, chambered arms, connected by a patagium; triangular shell regular, with three equal arms and three equal angles.

The genus Hymeniastrum was founded by Ehrenberg (1847) with a very incomplete diagnosis, and hitherto known only by one single species, figured by him as Hymeniastrum pythagoræ (Mikrogeol., 1854, Taf. xxxvi. fig. 31). This form occurs in two different states, externally quite identical; in one state the central disk (as figured, loc. cit.), is a simple lens or hollow disk, containing a medullary shell or "central chamber"; in the other state the central disk is composed of two concentric rings surrounding the "central chamber." We retain here the name Hymeniastrum for this latter state, {530}expressed in the diagnosis given above, and call the former state (the Coccodiscid) Hymenactura (compare above, p. 473). One practical advantage, obtained in this way, is that all genera of Discoidea ending with "-astrum" belong to the Porodiscida. Hymeniastrum differs from Dictyastrum by the possession of a patagium, and from Euchitonia by the equal size of the angles and the arms.

Subgenus 1. Hymenastrella, Haeckel.

Euchitonia leydigii, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 510, Taf. xxxi. figs. 4, 5.

Hymeniastrum leydigii, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Histiastrum trinacrium, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 843.

Arms twice as long as broad, two-thirds as broad at the base as at the blunt, nearly truncated distal end. Patagium nearly complete, perfectly filling out the interbrachial spaces, with six to seven regular, concave chamber-rows; only the truncate terminal faces of the arms free.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.15 to 0.18, breadth on their base 0.04 to 0.05, on their broadest distal end 0.06 to 0.07.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, surface. Very common and variable.

Euchitonia köllikeri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 511, Taf. xxxi. figs. 6, 7.

Hymeniastrum köllikeri, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Arms nearly lanceolate, twice as long as broad, half as broad at the base as at the broadest middle part, pointed at the distal end. Patagium complete, enveloping the whole triangular disk, with irregular chamber-rows.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2, breadth on their base 0.04, on the broadest part 0.08.

Stylactis gümbelii, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 112, Taf. vi. fig. 1.

Arms twice as long as broad, nearly twice as broad in the circular distal half as in the square proximal half. Patagium incomplete, circular, with eight to nine convex chamber-rows, enveloping only the proximal square halves of the arms; the lenticular distal halves remain free.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.14; breadth at the base 0.04, at the distal lenticular part 0.07.

Euchitonia euclidis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460 et Atlas (pl. xliii. fig. 13).

Arms one and a half times as long as broad, club-shaped, three times as broad in the oval distal part as in the narrow square proximal part. Patagium complete, enveloping the whole triangular disk, and also the convex ends of the arms, with eight to nine convex chamber-rows.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.18; breadth at the base 0.025, at the broadest distal part 0.07.

Hymeniastrum pythagoræ, Ehrenberg, 1854 (partim), Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvi. fig. 31.

Arms nearly as broad as long, two-thirds as broad at the base as at the truncated distal end. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms, with four to five rectilinear parallel chamber-rows. (This form has the greatest resemblance to the figure given by Ehrenberg, loc. cit., but differs by the central disk, which is composed of two concentric rings surrounding the small central chamber; compare above Hymenactura pythagoræ, p. 474.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.18; breadth at the base 0.08, at the truncated end 0.12.

Arms nearly triangular, at the truncated, slightly convex end three times as broad as at the narrow base and one and a third times as broad as long; each arm with six simple chambers. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms with three to four convex chamber-rows. (Differs from Rhopalastrum hexagonum, Pl. 43, fig. 7, only by the patagium.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2; breadth at the base 0.07, at the truncated end 0.2.

Subgenus 2. Hymenastromma, Haeckel.

Histiastrum ternarium, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 76, Taf. xxiv. fig. 2.

Arms two and a half times as long as broad, three times as broad at the truncated end as at the narrow base, with a strong, conical, radial spine at the end. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms, with three to four convex chamber-rows.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms (without terminal spine) 0.02; breadth at the base 0.025, at the broadest terminal part 0.08.

Arms one and a half times as long as broad, a little broader at the rounded end than at the base, with three strong conical radial spines, one larger (in the radius of each arm) and two smaller on both sides of this. Patagium complete, with four to five rectilinear parallel chamber-rows, enveloping the whole arms (with exception of the terminal spines) and forming a perfect equilateral triangle.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms (without terminal spines) 0.18; breadth at the base 0.1, at the distal part 0.12.

Genus 230. Euchitonia,^[269] Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 831 (sensu emendato).

Definition.—Porodiscida with three simple, undivided, chambered arms, connected by a patagium; triangular shell bilateral, one odd arm opposite to the odd angle between the two paired arms.

The genus Euchitonia, quite insufficiently characterised by Ehrenberg, was founded by him (1860) for one single species, afterwards (1872) described and figured as Euchitonia furcata. Retaining this species correctly as the type of this genus, I give to it here the above diagnosis. In my Monograph (1862, p. 503) I described seven Mediterranean species of Euchitonia. Three of these have in common the characters according to the present diagnosis: Euchitonia mülleri, Euchitonia virchowii, Euchitonia beckmanni; two others appertain (on account of the regular, not bilateral form) to Hymeniastrum, and two others (on account of the forked, not simple arms) to Trigonastrum. Afterwards (1880) three true fossil species of Euchitonia were described by Stöhr (Euchitonia cruciata, Euchitonia zittelii, and Euchitonia acuta). Some species of this genus are cosmopolitan, and appertain to the most common and everywhere represented Discoidea.

Subgenus 1. Stylactis, Ehrenberg, 1872 (loc. cit.).

Euchitonia furcata, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 308; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. vi. iii. fig. 6.

Distance between the paired arms about half as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same size and form, about twice as long as broad, one and a half times at the {533}blunt convex end as broad as at the base. Patagium incomplete, with concave chamber-rows and irregular network, only enveloping the basal half of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.15, basal breadth of each arm 0.04, terminal breadth 0.06.

Euchitonia mülleri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 508, Taf. xxx. figs. 5-10.

Euchitonia mülleri, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 110, Taf. v. fig. 5.

Distance between the paired arms about two-thirds as large as their distance from the odd arm, which is somewhat larger. Length of the arms equals two and a half times the breadth of the blunt convex end or five times the breadth of the base. Patagium with concave chamber-rows, nearly complete, enveloping the arms with exception of the terminal face. (This common species is very variable; compare my Monograph.)

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.16 to 0.22, basal breadth 0.03 to 0.05, terminal breadth 0.06 to 0.08.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; one of the most common Discoidea in all seas, on the surface as well as at different depths; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Sicily.

Stylactis triangulum, Ehrenberg, 1872, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 320; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. viii. fig. 9.

Stylactis triangulum, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 113, Taf. vi. fig. 2.

Distance between the paired arms about two-thirds as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same size and form, about one and a half times as long as broad, nearly as broad at the base as at the blunt rounded end. Patagium incomplete, with convex chamber-rows, enveloping about two-thirds of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.15, basal breadth 0.05, terminal breadth 0.06.

Habitat.—Pacific and Atlantic, Stations 253, 272, 354, surface; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Barbados and Sicily.

Euchitonia cruciata, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 111, Taf. v. fig. 7.

Distance between the paired arms about one and a half times as large as their distance from the odd arm, which is a little larger. Length of the arm nearly equals twice the breadth, which is the same at the base and at the rounded blunt ends. Patagium incomplete, with concave chamber-rows, enveloping only the base of the arms, and forms between them three other smaller arms; therefore the whole shell forms six angles with six alternating arms.

Distance between the paired arms about one and a third times as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same size and form, three times as long as broad, lanceolate, much broader in the middle part than at both ends; distal end cuspidate, but not spiny. Patagium incomplete, with convex chamber-rows, envelops about two-thirds of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.18, greatest breadth (in the width) 0.06.

Stylactis zittelii, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 112, Taf. v. fig. 8.

Distance between the paired arms about one-fifth as large as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same size and form, in the proximal half thinner and nearly square, in the distal half thicker and circular; the latter half twice to three times as broad as the former. Patagium incomplete, with convex chamber-rows, envelops only the proximal square half of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.15, basal breadth 0.03, terminal breadth 0.08.

Distance between the paired arms about four-fifths as large as their distance from the odd arm, which is one and a half times as long as the former. Arms about three times as long as broad, twice as broad in the distal half as in the proximal half, with rounded blunt ends. Patagium complete, with concave chamber-rows, enveloping the whole shell, also the ends of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of the paired arms 0.2, of the odd arm 0.25; basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.06.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados and of Nicobar Islands, Haeckel. Indian Ocean, Cocos Islands (Rabbe). Also in the Central Pacific, Station 267.

Euchitonia beckmannii, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 505, Taf. xxxi. fig. 1.

Distance between the paired arms scarcely half as large as their distance from the odd arm, which is somewhat larger. Each arm with six simple broad chambers (without radial septa), the terminal chambers semilunar, convex, blunt, four times as broad as the first (basal) chamber. Patagium incomplete, with convex chamber-rows, enveloping the arms with exception of the broad blunt terminal face.

Dimensions.—Radius of the paired arms 0.15, of the odd arm 0.18; basal breadth 0.02 to 0.03, terminal breadth 0.1 to 0.15.

Euchitonia virchowii, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 503, Taf. xxx. figs. 1-4.

Histiastrum fasciatum, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 842.

Distance between the paired arms about half as large as their distance from the odd arm, which is somewhat larger. Each arm with six broad chambers, bisected by a radial septum; the terminal chamber convex, blunt, twice as broad as the basal chamber. Patagium incomplete, with concave chamber-rows, enveloping the arms with exception of the broad blunt terminal face.

Dimensions.—Radius of the paired arms 0.15, of the odd arm 0.16; basal breadth 0.05, terminal breadth 0.1 to 0.12.

Subgenus 2. Pteractis, Ehrenberg, 1872 (loc. cit.).

Pteractis elegans, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 299, Taf. viii. fig. 3.

Distance between the paired arms half as large as their distance from the odd arm. This latter is straight, while both the former are concavely curved towards the middle line. Arms five times as long as broad, at the distal end pointed and armed with a short conical terminal spine. Patagium nearly complete, enveloping four-fifths of the arms, with four to five concave chamber-rows.

Distance between the paired arms scarcely one-fourth as great as their distance from the odd arm. This latter is straight, twice as long as the former, which are concavely curved towards the middle line. The odd arm is three times as broad at the distal end as at the narrow base. The end of each arm is furnished with a strong triangular radial spine and a group of smaller spines. Patagium incomplete, with two to three concave chamber-rows, enveloping only the basal half of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of the paired arms 0.15, breadth 0.03; radius of the odd arm 0.3, breadth on its base 0.02, on its distal end 0.07.

Euchitonia acuta, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 111, Taf. v. fig. 6.

Distance between the paired arms two-thirds as great as their distance from the odd arm. All three arms nearly of the same size and form, two and a half times as long as broad, nearly lanceolate, at their broadest part one and a half times as broad as at their base. Patagium complete, enveloping the whole triangular disk, with five to six concave chamber-rows. In the figure of Stöhr the ends of the arms are simply pointed, while I find in the same fossil form a short terminal conical spine.

Dimensions.—Radius of all three arms 0.14; breadth at the base 0.04, at the broadest part 0.06.

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Sicily, Grotte (Stöhr), Caltanisetta (Haeckel).

Histiastrum ypsiloides, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 843.

Distance between the paired arms two-thirds as great as their distance from the odd arm, which is somewhat larger. Length of the arms equals five times the breadth of the narrow base, which is half that of the distal end; this latter is armed with three to five short conical spines. Patagium complete, with six to seven concave chamber-rows, enveloping the whole arms with the exception of the terminal spines. (Differs from Euchitonia mülleri almost solely by the possession of terminal spines.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.18 to 0.2; breadth at the base 0.04, at the distal end 0.08.

Distance between paired arms three-fourths as great as their distance from the odd arm, which is somewhat larger. Arms one and a half times as long as broad, somewhat constricted in the middle part, armed at the rounded ends with numerous (thirty to forty) strong, conical spines. Patagium complete, with four or five rectilinear parallel chamber-rows, enveloping the whole of the arms with the exception of the spiny ends.

Genus 231. Chitonastrum,^[270] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with three forked, chambered arms, without a patagium. (Arms and angles between them either equal or unequal.)

The genus Chitonastrum differs from its ancestral form, Dictyastrum, by the bifurcation of the distal ends of the arms. The few species of this genus are partly {537}regular (like Dictyastrum), partly bilateral (like Rhopalastrum). If the number of species increases much, these two subgenera may be separated into two genera: Chitonastrella corresponding to the former, Chitonastromma to the latter.

Subgenus 1. Chitonastrella, Haeckel.

Definition.—All three arms of the same size and form, equidistant; fundamental form of the shell therefore an equilateral triangle.

All three arms equal and equidistant. Each arm has the form of an isosceles triangle, twice as high as broad; the truncated apex of the triangle is inserted into the large central disk, whilst its distal base (four times as broad) is divided by a deep incision (half as long as the arm). Each arm with ten to twelve joints, simple in its basal half, double in its distal half. Axes of the six branches straight. (Resembles Trigonastrum regulare, Pl. 43, fig. 16, but differs in the absence of a patagium.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.24, greatest breadth 0.11, basal breadth 0.03.

All three arms equal and equidistant, in the basal two-thirds simple, rectilinear, three times as long as broad, in the distal third forked, both branches equal, straight, blunt, half as broad as the basal part.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.18, basal breadth 0.04, breadth of the branches 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Chitonastromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—One odd arm different in size or form from the two other arms, which are paired; distance between them different; fundamental form of the shell therefore a bilateral, isosceles triangle.

Dictyastrum jugatum, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xliii. fig. 14).

Arms very different; odd arm club-shaped, twice as long as broad, at the blunt distal end twice as broad as at the base; its axis is perpendicular to the common axis of both paired arms, which are only two-thirds as long, not so broad, and in the distal half divided into two branches; the anterior branch is straight, nearly horizontal, the posterior shorter and curved backwards.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.2, of the paired arms 0.15; distal breadth of the former 0.08, basal breadth 0.04; breadth of the paired arms 0.04.

All three arms in the basal half simple, nearly square, in the distal half forked; branches straight, blunt. Odd arm twice as large as the paired arms; angle between the latter larger than the angles between them and the odd arm. (The form of the arms resembles Dicranastrum furcatum, Pl. 47, fig. 2.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.24, of the paired arms 0.12; basal breadth 0.06.

Dictyastrum lyra, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xliii. fig. 15).

All three arms forked and nearly of the same size, but different in form and position. The distance between the branches of the two paired arms is only one-fourth of the distance between them and the odd arm. Each arm in the basal two-thirds is simple, with eleven to twelve transverse septa, in the distal third forked, each branch with four to five transverse septa. The branches of each arm are curved convexly one to another, ending obtusely. The axis of the simple proximal part is straight in the odd arm, in the paired arms curved concavely towards the middle line. In the figured specimen, which I observed living in Portofino (in September 1880), the central chamber of the central disk and the first surrounding ring were filled with the nucleus of the cell; both external rings were filled (like all chambers of the arms) with pink oil-globules of the red central capsule. From the mantle, enveloping the shell, radiated innumerable fine pseudopodia (much too short in the figure), and between the two paired arms a long "sarcode-flagellum."

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.16; greatest breadth of the odd arm 0.04; basal breadth of the paired arms 0.02; distance of both branches of each arm 0.08.

Genus 232. Trigonastrum,^[271] n. gen.

Definition.—Porodiscida with three forked, chambered arms, connected by a patagium. (Arms and angles between them either equal or unequal.)

The genus Trigonastrum differs from the preceding Chitonastrum, its ancestral form, in the development of a patagium between the arms. It bears therefore to the latter the same relation that Euchitonia does to Rhopalastrum.

Subgenus 1. Trigonastrella, Haeckel.

Definition.—All three arms of the same size and form, equidistant; fundamental form of the shell therefore a regular, equilateral triangle.

Chitonastrum regulare, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xliii. fig. 16).

All three arms equal and equidistant. Each arm has the form of an isosceles triangle, twice as high as broad, the truncated apex of which is inserted into the large circular central disk, whilst its distal base (four times as broad) is divided by a deep incision (half as long as the arm). Each arm with ten to twelve joints. Patagium between the arms nearly complete, spongy. (Differs from Chitonastrum triglochin mainly in the possession of a patagium.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.24, greatest breadth 0.11, basal breadth 0.03; length of the sides of the regular triangle 0.45.

Subgenus 2. Trigonastromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—One odd arm different in form or size from the other two arms, which are paired; distance between them different; fundamental form of the shell therefore an isosceles triangle.

Euchitonia krohnii, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 507.

All three arms different; distance between the two paired arms smaller than their distance from the odd arm. Odd arm with six joints. Each paired arm with seven joints, increasing in breadth towards the distal end. Odd arm and one paired arm forked at the end, the other paired arm simple. Patagium nearly complete. (The asymmetry in this form may perhaps be an individual anomaly, as also in Myelastrum anomalum, Pl. 47, fig. 9.)

Euchitonia gegenbauri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 506, Taf. xxxi. figs. 2, 3.

Arms different; distance between the paired arms larger than their distance from the odd arm, which is one-third shorter. Odd arm egg-shaped, simple, with seven joints, undivided. Both paired arms equal, with ten joints, in the distal third forked. Patagium nearly complete.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.14, greatest breadth 0.08; radius of the paired arms 0.2.

Genus 233. Stauralastrum,^[272] n. gen.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four simple, undivided, chambered arms, without a patagium; quadrangular shell a regular cross, with four equal arms placed at right angles.

The genus Stauralastrum is the most simple form of the Tessarastrida, or of those Porodiscida in which the margin of the central disk is armed with four chambered arms. In Stauralastrum these four arms are quite simple and equal, without a patagium, separated by four right angles, so that the whole shell represents a regular rectangular cross. If we connect the distal points of the arms by lines, we get a complete square. (In my Prodromus, 1881, the species of this genus were united with Hagiastrum, which genus I now retain for the simple bilateral Tessarastrida.)

Subgenus 1. Stauralastrella, Haeckel.

Arms very thin, nearly linear, four to five times as long as broad, of equal breadth at the base and at the truncated distal end; their breadth equals one-third of the radius of the central disk. Edges of the arms parallel.

Arms lanceolate, three times as long as broad, in their middle part three times as broad as at both ends; their greatest breadth nearly equals the diameter of the central disk. (The arms have the same form as in Euchitonia lanceolata, Pl. 43, fig. 9.) Edges of the arms convex.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.3, greatest breadth (in the middle part) 0.08.

Arms trapezoid, about as long as broad, twice as broad at their truncated distal end as at the base; their basal breadth equals the radius of the central disk, which exhibits two to three rings. (The arms have nearly the same form as those in Hagiastrum mosis, Pl. 45, fig. 3.) Edges of the arms rectilinear, divergent towards the ends.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.12, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.08.

Arms twice as long as broad, in their distal half lenticular, nearly circular, twice as broad as in their square proximal half; their distal breadth equals the diameter of the central disk, which exhibits three to four rings. Edges of the arms concave.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.2, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.08.

Arms of nearly equal length and breadth, at their convex distal end three times as broad as at their narrow base; their distal breadth three times as large as the radius of the central disk, which exhibits three to four rings. (Resembles Histiastrum quadrigatum, Pl. 46, fig. 3, but has no patagium.) Edges of the arms concave.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.15, basal breadth 0.04, terminal breadth 0.12.

Subgenus 2. Stauralastromma, Haeckel.

Hagiastrum rhopalophorum, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Arms cylindrical, eight times as long as broad at their base, at their distal end club-shaped, three times as broad as at their base; their distal breadth twice as large as the diameter of the central disk, which exhibits two to three rings. Surface thorny, with larger spines towards the end, and one radial, very strong, angular terminal spine. Edges of the arms parallel.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm (without terminal spine) 0.32, basal breadth 0.03, terminal breadth 0.1.

Rhopalastrum sp. Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xiv. fig. 5.

Arms six times as long as broad at their base, in their distal half nearly spherical, three times as broad as in their cylindrical basal half; their distal breadth nearly equals the diameter of the central disk which exhibits three to four rings. On the end of each arm one strong, angular, terminal spine. (Differs from the preceding species by larger central disk and stouter arms, also by less developed spines.) Edges of the arms parallel.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.25, basal breadth 0.04, terminal breadth 0.12.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Barbados rocks; and living in the depths of the Central Pacific, Station 266, depth 2750 fathoms.

Arms four times as long as broad at their base, gradually increasing towards their truncated end, which is one and a half times as broad as their base; their distal breadth equals the radius of the central disk, which exhibits four to five rings. At the end of each arm is a very strong conical terminal spine. (Resembles Histiastrum quaternarium, Abhandl. k. Akad. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, Taf. xxiv. fig. 3, but has no patagium.) Edges of the arms rectilinear, divergent.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.25, basal breadth 0.045, distal breadth 0.07.

Habitat.—Fossil in the Barbados rocks; and living in the depth of the Equatorial Atlantic, Station 348, depth (2450) fathoms.

Arms three times as long as broad at their base, gradually increasing towards their rounded end, which is twice as broad as their base, their distal breadth equals the diameter of the central disk, which exhibits four to five rings. Surface thorny, at the distal end of each arm is a group of twenty to twenty-five smaller and five to six larger, straight, conical spines. Edges of the arms rectilinear, divergent.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.15, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.1.

Genus 234. Hagiastrum,^[273] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four simple, undivided, chambered arms, without a patagium; quadrangular shell bilateral, two opposite arms of the main axis (or principal arms) different from the two others (or lateral arms).

The genus Hagiastrum, as here defined, was formerly united by me with the foregoing Stauralastrum, but differs from it by the bilateral or symmetrical form. Whilst in the latter all four arms and the four angles between them are equal, they are here differentiated into pairs.

Subgenus 1. Hagiastrella, Haeckel.

Cross rectangular. Both longitudinal arms of equal size, twice as long as the transverse arms; all arms smooth, club-shaped, twice as broad at their globose distal part as at their base, each with three large conical terminal spines.

Dimensions.—Radius of the principal arms 0.4, of the lateral arms 0.2; basal breadth 0.06, distal breadth 0.12.

Cross rectangular. Both longitudinal arms of equal size, one and a half times as long as the transverse arms; all arms thorny, club-shaped, at their pear-shaped distal part three times as broad as at their base, provided with numerous conical spines, one larger terminal spine at their distal point. (Resembles Stauralastrum rhopalophorum, Pl. 45, fig. 1, but is distinguished by the different size of the arm-pairs, and by the stronger spines.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the principal arms 0.3, of the lateral arms 0.2; basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.12.

Subgenus 2. Hagiastromma, Haeckel.

Cross rectangular. All four arms nearly isosceles, triangular, at their narrow base half as broad as at their truncated, concavely fluted, distal end. The posterior principal arm with twelve to thirteen joints, twice as long as the anterior arm, which has six to seven joints and is one and a half times as long as the two lateral arms (with four to five joints).

Dimensions.—Radius of the posterior arm 0.3, of the anterior 0.15, of the lateral arms 0.1; basal breadth 0.05, terminal breadth 0.1.

Cross with unequal angles, the anterior little smaller than the posterior. All four arms club-shaped, thorny, three times as broad at their globose distal end as at their narrow base, and furnished with ten to twelve conical spines. Posterior principal arm twice as long as the anterior, and four times as long as the rudimentary lateral arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of the posterior arm 0.4, of the anterior 0.2, of the lateral arms 0.1; basal breadth 0.02 to 0.03, distal breadth 0.06 to 0.1.

Cross with unequal angles, the anterior somewhat smaller than the posterior. All four arms of similar form, lanceolate, in their middle twice as broad as at either obtuse end. The posterior {544}principal arm with twelve joints, one and a half times as long as the anterior (with nine joints) and twice as long as the two lateral arms (each with six joints). The form and structure of the arms in this species are nearly the same as in Tessarastrum straussi (Pl. 45, fig. 8); but the arms are broader in the middle, and are not connected by a patagium.

Dimensions.—Radius of the principal posterior arm 0.2, of the anterior 0.15, of each lateral arm 0.1; greatest breadth (in the width) 0.01, basal breadth 0.03.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel, Gulf Stream, surface, John Murray.

Genus 235. Histiastrum,^[274] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four simple, undivided, chambered arms, connected by a patagium; square shell a regular cross, with four equal arms and four right angles between them.

The genus Histiastrum, quite insufficiently characterised by Ehrenberg (1847), was afterwards (1875) illustrated by the figures of two different fossil species. One of these, Histiastrum ternarium, with three arms, belongs to Hymeniastrum; the other, Histiastrum quaternarium, is here retained as the true, typical representative species of the genus. It differs from its ancestral form Stauralastrum, by the possession of a patagium, from Tessarastrum by the regular square form of the shell.

Subgenus 1. Histiastrella, Haeckel.

Arms at their distal end nearly as broad as long, and four times as broad as at their narrow base; their lateral edges concave, their terminal edge convex, without spines. Each arm is divided by seven to eight convex transverse septa into eight to nine simple, broad chambers. Central disk with three to four rings, about as broad as the fifth chamber. Patagium complete, connecting all the lateral edges of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.15, basal breadth 0.03, terminal breadth 0.12.

Arms four times as long as broad at their base, and twice as broad at their rounded blunt distal end as at their base; their lateral edges rectilinear, divergent. Central disk with three to four rings, {545}somewhat broader than their distal end. Patagium incomplete, connecting only the basal half of the arms, with three to four concave chamber-rows, on the margin concave. (May be regarded as Euchitonia mülleri, with four arms.)

Dictyastrum velatum, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xlvi. fig. 4).

Arms pear-shaped, rapidly increasing from their narrow base, nearly circular, little longer than broad; each with eight to nine transverse chamber-rows; their lateral edges at their base concave, at their end circular. Central disk with three to four rings, somewhat smaller than one arm. Patagium complete, with six to seven radial beams, filling out perfectly the intervals between the arms. A peculiar girdle of finer network and equal breadth surrounds the whole equatorial periphery of the disk, and gives it the appearance of a square with rounded corners.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.2, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.12.

Subgenus 2. Histiastromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Distal ends of the arms spiny, furnished with one or more terminal spines.

Histiastrum quaternarium, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 74, Taf. xxiv. figs. 3, 4.

Arms six times as long as broad at their base, with rectilinear, little divergent edges; at their truncated distal end a little broader, with one single, very strong, conical, terminal spine. Central disk with four to five rings, somewhat broader than the arm. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.18, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.05.

Astromma sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. v. fig. 1.

Arms triangular, eight times as long as broad at their base; at their distal end three times as broad as at their base, with rectilinear, divergent edges; their truncated end with a large conical, terminal spine. Central disk with four to five rings, broader than the arms. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.12, basal breadth 0.013, distal breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados; and living in the depth of the Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms.

Arms linear, twelve times as long as broad at their base (at their distal end twice as broad as at their base), with rectilinear, parallel edges. The club-shaped end thickened, dentate, with two lateral rows of strong teeth in the equatorial plane, and with one very stout, angular, terminal spine. Central disk with two to three rings, broader than the arms. Patagium incomplete, with four to five concave chamber-rows, enveloping only the basal half of the arms. I call this splendid species in honour of Dr. Graf Bose, the great friend of nature and patron of the University of Jena.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.25, basal breadth 0.02, distal breadth 0.05.

Stephanastrum sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. iv. fig. 1.

Arms linear, eight times as long as broad, with rectilinear parallel edges; the thickened, nearly spherical, distal end three times as broad, with five strong conical spines, one middle (perradial) larger and two smaller on each side of it. Central disk with two to three rings, of the same breadth as the terminal knot of the arms. Patagium incomplete, square, enveloping the arms, with the exception of the knot.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.16, basal breadth 0.02, terminal breadth 0.06.

Stephanastrum sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xxiii. fig. 1.

Arms linear in their inner half, egg-shaped and three times as broad in their outer half, with ten to twelve strong terminal spines, the middle (perradial) larger, in all three times as long as broad. Central disk with three to four rings, broader than their distal knobs. Patagium nearly complete, circular, enveloping the whole arms, with exception of the outermost end.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.22, basal breadth 0.02, terminal breadth 0.06.

Habitat.—Fossil in the rocks of Barbados; and living in the depths of the Central Pacific, Station 268, depth 2900 fathoms.

Arms in their inner half linear, twice as long as broad, in their outer half circular, three times as broad, with the same structure as the central disk, exhibiting three concentric rings around one {547}central chamber. Patagium complete, spongy, with radiating beams, enveloping the whole disk, with the exception of the outermost end of the arms, which is armed with twelve to sixteen strong conical spines, the middle (perradial) spine much larger.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm (without terminal spine) 0.18, basal breadth 0.025, terminal breadth 0.08.

Genus 236. Tessarastrum,^[275] n. gen.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four simple, undivided, chambered arms, connected by a patagium; quadrangular shell bilateral, two opposite arms of the main axis (or principal arms) different from the two others (or lateral arms).

The genus Tessarastrum, formerly united by me with Histiastrum, differs from the latter in its bilateral or symmetrical form, and bears therefore the same relation to it that Hagiastrum does to Stauralastrum.

Subgenus 1. Tessarastrella, Haeckel.

Histiastrum straussii, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xlv. fig. 8).

Cross not rectangular. Both principal arms of equal size and form, four times as long as broad, and twice as long as the broader lateral arms; the former with ten to eleven, the latter with five to six joints, separated by convex transverse septa. Distal ends of the arms blunt. Axes of the smaller arms not perpendicular to that of the larger arms; therefore the anterior angles between them smaller than the posterior angles. Patagium between the arms incomplete. I call this remarkable species after the great German philosopher David Strauss.

Dimensions.—Radius of the principal arms 0.24, of the lateral arms 0.12; greatest breadth (in the middle) of the former 0.05, of the latter 0.06.

Cross rectangular. Both principal arms of equal size and form, ten times as long as broad, and twice as long as the lateral arms, which are only five times as long as broad. All arms linear, at their distal end club-shaped, and armed with twenty to thirty very strong angular spines. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms. (Resembles Histiastrum boseanum, {548}Pl. 46, fig. 1, but differs in the broader arms and the unequal size of both pairs.) I call this species after the great monistic philosopher Benedictus Spinoza.

Dimensions.—Radius of the principal arms 0.3, of the lateral arms 0.16; basal breadth 0.025, distal breadth 0.05.

Histiastrum brunonis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xlv. fig. 9).

Cross rectangular. Both principal arms of equal size and form, three times as long as broad, each with ten joints, three times as long as the lateral arms, which are nearly square, with four joints. All arms rounded, at their truncated end little broader than at their base. No spines. Patagium complete, envelops the whole shell, and is composed of two parallel lattice-lamellæ on each side of the flat disk, which are connected by very fine perpendicular bars. This is shown clearly in fig. 9, Pl. 45, where the disk is seen from the edge. I call this species after the great Italian philosopher Giordano Bruno.

Dimensions.—Radius of the principal arms 0.22, of the lateral arms 0.12; basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.05.

Subgenus 2. Tessarastromma, Haeckel.

Histiastrum democriti, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus et Atlas (pl. xlv. fig. 7).

Cross not rectangular; the two anterior angles smaller than the two posterior. All four arms club-shaped, twice as broad at their rounded obtuse distal end as at their base, of unequal length. Posterior principal arm one and a fourth times as long as the posterior, and one and two-thirds as long as the lateral arms. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms. I call this species after the great Greek philosopher Democritus.

Dimensions.—Radius of the posterior arm 0.3, of the anterior 0.25, of each lateral arm 0.22; basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.1.

Genus 237. Stephanastrum,^[276] Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 54.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four simple, undivided, chambered arms, connected on the distal ends by a spongy, square or rhomboidal, patagial girdle (or a patagium with four large, interbrachial openings). Shell either regular or bilateral (with equal or unequal arms).

The genus Stephanastrum, founded (1847) by Ehrenberg for the very peculiar Stephanastrum rhombus, differs from the nearly allied foregoing genera in the imperfect development of the peculiar patagium, connecting only the distal ends of the four arms, while it is absent at their base. Two new species, different from Stephanastrum rhombus by the regular square form, were found in the Challenger collection.

Subgenus 1. Stephanastrella, Haeckel.

All four arms of the same size, six times as long as broad at their base, ending with a strong, short, four-sided pyramidal spine. In the outer half of each arm are two opposite lateral spongy wings, which form an equilateral triangle, and from union of the bases of the four triangles arises the peculiar patagium, which forms a square with four large interbrachial openings.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.25, basal breadth 0.035; length of the sides of the square patagium 0.3.

All four arms of the same size, five times as long as broad at their base, at their distal end with a spongy, nearly spherical capitulum of twice their breadth, provided with a very strong, angular, pyramidal, terminal spine (half as long as the arm). All four arms connected by a square patagium, arising immediately below the capitula, and perforated by four large interbrachial openings.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm (without the terminal spine) 0.25, basal breadth 0.05; length of the sides of the square patagium 0.3.

Subgenus 2. Stephanastromma, Haeckel.

Stephanastrum rhombus, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvi. fig. 33; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1875, Taf. xxv. fig. 1.

Two arms of the longitudinal axis one and a third times as long as two arms of the transverse axis. All four arms linear, about eight times as long as broad, at their distal end somewhat {550}thickened, club-shaped, with a pyramidal terminal spine. The ends of the arms are connected by a riband-shaped, straight, spongy patagium of the same breadth as the arms. Between the rhomboidal patagium and the arms remain four large rectangular triangles as interbrachial openings.

Dimensions.—Radius of the longer arms 0.2, of the shorter 0.15; basal breadth 0.02; length of the sides of the rhombic patagium 0.25.

Genus 238. Dicranastrum,^[277] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four forked, spongy, or chambered arms, without a patagium; shell regular (not bilateral), with four equal arms crossed at right angles.

The genus Dicranastrum comprises a number of very remarkable, hitherto unknown, Euchitonida, which are rather common in the Pacific (mainly on the surface), and characterised by the bifurcation of the cross-arms of the regular square shell. It bears therefore to its probable ancestral form, Stauralastrum, the same relation that in the triradiate Euchitonida Chitonastrum does to Dictyastrum. The arms are commonly of very delicate structure, more or less spongy.

Subgenus 1. Dicranaster, Haeckel.

Arms simply forked, three times as long as broad at their base, with eight blunt ends of the fork-branches. The simple proximal half of each arm about the same size as each branch of the dichotomous distal part, twice as long as broad. Edges of the arms ragged.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.38, basal breadth 0.12; breadth of the forked part 0.3.

Arms simply forked, four times as long as broad at their base; each arm with two blunt branches. The simple proximal part of each arm is three times as long and twice as broad as each branch of the dichotomous distal part. Ends of the arms blunt, truncated.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.35, basal breadth 0.08; breadth of the forked part 0.2.

Hagiastrum cornutum, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xlv. fig. 2).

Four arms simply forked, four times as long as broad; each arm with two triangular diverging branches ending in strong conical spines. The simple basal part of each arm about of the same length as each branch of the distal part, twice as long as broad. Distance between the terminal spines of each arm nearly as great as its length.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arm 0.24, basal breadth 0.05; breadth across the bifurcation 0.12.

Four arms simply forked, three times as long as broad; each arm with two lanceolate diverging branches, ending in strong angular spines. The simple basal part of each arm is twice as long as each branch of the distal part. Distance of the two terminal spines of each arm scarcely half as great as its length.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arm 0.32, basal breadth 0.11; breadth of the branches 0.07.

Subgenus 2. Tricranastrum, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Each cross arm with three terminal branches, one middle (perradial) and two lateral (adradial) branches.

Tricranastrum wyvillei, Haeckel, 1879, Natürl. Schöpfungsgesch., p. 705, Taf. xvi. fig. 5.

Arms trifid, one and a half times as long as broad; each arm with three blunt terminal branches of equal size. The simple basal part of each arm twice as long as the trifid distal part. (The central capsule depicted in fig. 3, Pl. 47, has the same form as the skeleton, and is only a little smaller.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arm 0.4, basal breadth 0.12, greatest breadth (in the distal part) 0.24.

Arms trifid, twice as long as broad; each arm with three pointed terminal branches, ending in strong conical spines, the middle branch somewhat larger than the other two. The simple basal part of each arm three times as long as the trifid distal part.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arm 0.3, basal breadth 0.06, greatest breadth (in their distal part) 0.15.

Arms trifid, three times as long as broad at their base; each arm with three pointed terminal branches, ending in strong sulcate spines; the middle branch twice as large as the two others. The simple basal part of each arm two and a half times as long as the trifid distal part.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arm 0.35, basal breadth 0.03, greatest breadth (in the distal part) 0.05.

Subgenus 3. Tetracranastrum, Haeckel.

Definition.—Each cross-arm with four terminal branches, the two fork-branches being again bifurcated.

Arms doubly forked or quadripartite, six times as long as broad at their base; each arm in its proximal half simple, three times as long as broad; in its distal half doubly forked; the secondary branches with blunt, roundish ends, nearly as large as the primary branches. Central disk (fig. 1a) with three concentric rings around the central chamber; from its periphery radiate thin radial beams in the spongy framework of the delicate arms. The central capsule has the same form as the skeleton, and is only a little smaller.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arm 0.45, basal breadth 0.08; breadth of the terminal branches 0.03.

Genus 239. Myelastrum,^[278] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Porodiscida with four forked, spongy, or chambered arms, without a patagium; shell bilateral, with paired different arms; two equal anterior arms of different shape from the two equal posterior arms.

The genus Myelastrum differs from the foregoing Dicranastrum, the ancestral form, by the twofold differentiation of the four arms. Whilst in the latter all four arms are equal, separated by equal angles, here the two anterior arms are constantly different from the two posterior. The lateral angles between the two arm-pairs are equal, while the posterior and the anterior angle (between the two arms of each pair) are more or less different. The shell assumes, therefore, a very characteristic bilateral form, similar to the "quadricorn cross" of the grey central substance in the transverse section of the human medulla spinalis. Though the spongy shell is commonly a most delicate and {553}thin disk it nevertheless reaches unusual dimensions, its diameter in some species being more than a millimetre.

Subgenus 1. Myelastrella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Posterior arms simple, undivided; anterior arms lobated or cleft, with one or more incisions at the distal end.

Anterior arms bifid, nearly square, with a shallow incision at their broad truncated end. Posterior arms somewhat smaller, nearly triangular, with simple blunt ends. Sagittal constriction three-fourths as large as the transverse one. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.36, of the posterior 0.3; longitudinal constriction 0.24, transverse 0.36.

Anterior arms bifid, twice as long as broad, with a deep incision at their truncated end. Posterior arms slender, half as large, with simple blunt ends. Sagittal constriction one and a half times as large as the transverse. Surface spiny.

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.4, of the posterior 0.2; longitudinal constriction 0.3, transverse 0.2.

Anterior arms trifid, about as long as broad, with two incisions at their broad truncated end. Posterior arms about half as large, simple, with rounded blunt ends. Sagittal constriction two-thirds as large as the transverse. Surface bristly.

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.65, of the posterior 0.035; longitudinal constriction 0.4, transverse 0.6.

Subgenus 2. Myelastromma, Haeckel.

All four arms with a deep incision in their distal half; anterior arms broader, but shorter than the posterior; in the anterior arms the two lobes are of the same size, in the posterior arms the {554}median lobe is longer than the lateral lobe. Sagittal constriction little smaller than the transverse. Surface of the disk rough.

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.45, of the posterior 0.62; longitudinal constriction 0.25, transverse 0.3.

All four arms with a shallow incision at their distal end. Anterior arms broader, but shorter than the posterior; in each arm the anterior lobe is shorter than the posterior. Sagittal constriction smaller than the transverse. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.4, of the posterior 0.6; longitudinal constriction 0.5, transversal stricture 0.6.

All four arms with a shallow incision at their distal end. Anterior arms triangular, of the same breadth, but of the double length of the square posterior arms. Sagittal and transverse constrictions of the same length. Surface ciliated. (Resembles a butterfly.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.7, of the posterior 0.4; longitudinal and transverse constrictions 0.4.

Anterior arms bifid, with one shallow incision at their distal end. Posterior arms of the same length, but much broader, trifid, with two incisions (one larger and one smaller). Sagittal and transverse constrictions of the same length. Surface spiny.

Dimensions.—Radius of all four arms 0.4; longitudinal and transverse constrictions 0.35.

Anterior arms trifid, with two shallow incisions at their distal end. Posterior arms about one-third larger, also trifid, with one deeper anterior and one shallower posterior incision. Sagittal constriction much longer than the transverse. Surface ciliated, covered with numerous thin and long radial bristles (fig. 11a).

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.5, of the posterior 0.7; longitudinal constriction 0.5, transverse 0.35.

Anterior arms trifid, with two shallow incisions. Posterior arms somewhat smaller, also trifid, with two deeper incisions. Sagittal constriction a little larger than the transverse. Margin of the disk ciliated, with radial bristle-shaped spines, as prolongations of the inner radial beams, arising from the central disk.

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.6, of the posterior 0.5; longitudinal constriction 0.4, transverse 0.35.

Anterior arms somewhat broader but shorter than the posterior arms. Each arm four-lobed, with three terminal shallow incisions of nearly equal size. Sagittal constriction smaller than the transverse. Surface of the disk bristly.

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.4, of the posterior 0.5; longitudinal constriction 0.3, transverse 0.35.

Anterior arms little broader than the posterior, but of the same length. Each arm four-lobed, with three terminal deep incisions of equal size. Sagittal and transverse constrictions equal. The whole disk nearly circular, resembles a wheel with sixteen spokes. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Radius of all four arms 0.5; longitudinal and transverse constrictions 0.3.

Anterior arms somewhat broader and shorter than the posterior. Each arm four-lobed, with three shallow terminal incisions, the middle incision twice as deep as the two laterals. Sagittal constriction a little larger than the transverse. Margin ciliated, with radial bristle-shaped spines as prolongations of the inner radial beams, proceeding from the central disk (as in Myelastrum dodecaceros, Pl. 47, figs. 11, 11a).

Dimensions.—Radius of the anterior arms 0.6, of the posterior 0.8; longitudinal constriction 0.6, transverse 0.5.

All four arms of different size and form; anterior arms broader, posterior longer; one anterior arm trifid, the three other arms bifid; length of the branches unequal; all four angles between the arms unequal. (This anomalous form, seen only once, may be an individual abnormality.)

Genus 240. Pentalastrum,^[279] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Porodiscida with five simple, undivided, chambered arms, without a patagium.

The genus Pentalastrum opens the small series of Euchitonida, in which the shell is not provided with three or four arms, as usual, but with five. All forms of this little group are rare. Some species resemble in their external form and in the articulation of their arms certain forms of Asterida. In Pentalastrum, the most simple genus, the five arms are simple, not forked, and without a patagium. It can be derived from Dictyastrum or Stauralastrum by increase of the number of arms.

Subgenus 1. Pentalastrella, Haeckel.

Definition.—All five arms equal, with equal angles between them. Shell a regular pentagon.

All five arms equal, club-shaped, at their thickened obtuse end three times as broad as at their base, twice as long as broad. Angles between the arms equal.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.2, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.08.

All five arms equal, with five to six distinct, simple joints, the basal joint two-thirds as broad as the terminal joint, which bears a strong conical spine. Angles between the arms equal. (Resembles Pentinastrum asteriscus, Pl. 44, fig. 2, but has no patagium.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.14, basal breadth 0.024, distal breadth 0.036.

Subgenus 2. Pentalastromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Arms of different sizes, one odd arm larger than the two others; the opposite odd angle generally different from the four other angles.

Arms nearly triangular, at their obtuse truncated distal end twice as broad as at their base. Four arms equal, with five joints each; the fifth arm twice as long, with seven joints. Angles between the arms nearly equal; the odd angle a little larger.

Dimensions.—Radius of the larger odd arm 0.25, of the four smaller arms 0.15; basal breadth 0.035, distal breadth 0.07.

Arms nearly cylindrical, at their obtuse truncated distal end one and a half times as broad as at their base. Posterior odd arm very large, with eleven joints, about three times as long as the two lateral arms (with five joints each) and four times as long as the two anterior arms (with three joints each). Angles between the paired arms different; the two lateral angles smaller than the two posterior, and these smaller than the odd anterior angle.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd posterior arm 0.5, of the lateral arms 0.25, of the anterior arms 0.18; basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.08.

Genus 241. Pentinastrum,^[280] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Porodiscida with five simple, undivided, chambered arms, connected by a patagium.

The genus Pentinastrum differs from the foregoing Pentalastrum only in the development of a patagium or connecticulum between the arms, and bears therefore the same relation to it that Histiastrum does to Stauralastrum, or Hymeniastrum to Dictyastrum.

All arms equal, twice as long as broad, at their base two-thirds as broad as at their truncated distal end, which bears a strong, pyramidal, terminal spine. Each arm is divided by five transverse septa into six joints or chambers, and each of these by a radial beam into a pair of chambers. The five radial beams arise from the innermost chamber of the central disk, and end in the five terminal {558}spines. The diameter of the central disk is larger than the length of the arms. The angles between the arms are equal and filled up by an incomplete patagium, so that the whole disk forms a regular pentagon with five concave sides.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm (without terminal spine) 0.14; breadth at their base 0.02, at their terminal joint 0.03; radius of the central disk 0.06.

? Stephanastrum sp., Bury, 1862, Polycystins of Barbados, pl. xx. fig. 1.

All five arms equal, four times as long as broad, club-shaped, at their globose distal end twice as broad as at their base, and armed with a strong conical terminal spine. Diameter of the central disk equals only one-third of the length of the arms. The articulation of the spongy arms is somewhat obscure. Patagium complete, totally fills up the interbrachial spaces, so that the whole disk forms a regular pentagon with five rectilinear sides, except that the terminal spines project at the corners.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.18, basal breadth 0.02, distal breadth 0.04; radius of the central disk 0.05.

Habitat.—South Pacific, Station 295, depth 1500 fathoms; also fossil in the rocks of Barbados.

Genus 242. Pentophiastrum,^[281] n. gen.

Definition.—Porodiscida with five forked chambered arms, without a patagium.

The genus Pentophiastrum differs from the two preceding genera by the bifurcation of the five arms, and can be derived either from Pentalastrum by the ramification of the distal ends of the arms, or from the similar Myelastrum by the increase in the number of arms.

All five arms equal, with equal angles between them. Each arm in the basal half simple, in the distal half forked; both branches of it equal, with obtuse ends. (This regular species resembles Dicranastrum furcatum, Pl. 47, fig. 2, but with five rays instead of four; also the form of the arms is more slender and the edges smooth.)

Subgenus Pentophiastromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Arms of different size, one odd arm opposite to the angle between both arm-pairs.

Arms in pairs different; four arms in the basal half simple, in the distal half forked; the fifth (posterior) odd arm simple, undivided, cylindrical; the anterior pair a little smaller than the posterior; the neighboring branches of the two pairs on each side larger than the two others. Axes of the arms and their branches straight.

Arms in pairs different, all in the basal two thirds simple, in the distal third forked. Only in the posterior (odd) arm both branches are equal, in the four others unequal. The common axis of the posterior lateral pair is horizontal, perpendicular to the median line; the axes of the anterior pair are pincer-like, concavely curved towards the median line or principal axis.

Genus 243. Hexalastrum,^[282] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

The genus Hexalastrum, together with the following Hexinastrum, encloses those Euchitonida in which the number of the chambered arms surrounding the central disk amounts to six. This is the highest number of these articulated marginal appendages which is reached in any Discoidea. Formerly (1881) in my Prodromus, p. 459, I supposed that the same number was reached also by one Coccodiscid, and called this genus Hexactura. Afterwards I was convinced that this form was also a Hexalastrum.

All six arms equal, with equal angles between them. Each arm club-shaped, three times as long as broad, twice as broad at the thickened distal end as at the base, without a terminal spine.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.2, basal breadth 0.02, distal breadth 0.06.

All six arms equal, with equal angles between them. Each arm club-shaped, four times as long as broad, at the egg-shaped distal end three times as broad as in the linear basal part, provided {560}with numerous short conical spines and one longer terminal spine. (Resembles Stauralastrum rhopalophorum, Pl. 45, fig. 1, but with six rays instead of four.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.3, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.08.

Subgenus Hexalastromma, Haeckel.

Hexactura orchidacea, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 459.

Arms different in length, so that two unequal opposite odd arms determine the main axis, and the four other arms lie on both sides of this as two different pairs. The proportion of their relative length is the following:—anterior lateral arms five, anterior odd arm six; posterior lateral arms seven, posterior odd arm eight. Each arm is club-shaped, two to three times as long as broad, and divided into six to eight joints by five to seven transverse septa; its distal end is armed with a terminal spine and twice as broad as its base.

Dimensions.—Radius of the posterior odd arm 0.4, of the anterior odd arm 0.3; of the posterior lateral pair 0.35, of the anterior lateral pair 0.25; basal breadth 0.08, distal breadth 0.16.

Genus 244. Hexinastrum,^[283] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Porodiscida with six simple, undivided, chambered arms, connected by a patagium.

The genus Hexinastrum differs from its ancestral form Hexalastrum by the development of a patagium between the arms. The only observed species is regular.

Hexalastrum geryonidum, Haeckel, 1879, Atlas (pl. xliv. fig. 4).

Disk quite regular with six radii; all six arms of the same size and form, at their broad, convexly rounded, smooth end five times as broad as at their narrow base, and little longer than broad. Each arm is divided by eight transverse septa into nine simple joints or chambers of the same height; the breadth of the distal chambers increases rapidly. The regular, hexagonal, central disk exhibits four concentric rings around the central chamber. Patagium between the arms incomplete, with concavely fluted edge.

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.15, basal breadth 0.016, distal breadth 0.08; radius of the central disk 0.04.

Family XXII. Pylodiscida, n. fam. (Pl. 48, figs. 12-20).

Definition.—Discoidea without phacoid shell, with flat discoidal shell, in which a simple spherical central chamber is surrounded by one or two concentric triradial girdles; each girdle with three gates, separated by three simple arm-chambers. Surface of the disk with three open or latticed gates on each flat side.

The family Pylodiscida represents a new small but interesting group of Discoidea, which exhibits rather complex affinities to different groups of Sphærellaria. In my Prodromus (1881, p. 464) I had enumerated only two genera of this family, Triopyle and Hexapyle, and had united them with Tetrapyle and allied genera in the family Pylonida. Indeed, the resemblance of skeletal structure in the two groups is very great. The most simple forms of both groups exhibit a simple spherical latticed central chamber, which is surrounded by few latticed chambers of similar size and form, separated by open gates. But in the Pylonida these chambers are opposite in pairs, and form together a complete lattice-girdle around the central chamber, whereas in the Pylodiscida the chambers are not opposite in pairs in one axis, and form therefore only latticed half girdles, which arise from the central chamber like radial arms, and may perhaps better be called "arm-chambers"; their number is constantly three. The free open spaces between these three arm-chambers form three gates, comparable to the two or four gates of Amphipyle, Tetrapyle, &c., and become afterwards closed by lattice-work in a similar way in both groups. A more important difference between them is indicated by the further mode of growth. The Pylonida build new girdles in all three dimensive planes (alternating in the transverse, lateral and sagittal planes); their geometric fundamental form is therefore the "lentellipsis" or the "triaxial ellipsoid." The Pylodiscida, however, grow only at the periphery of the discoidal shell in one single plane (the equatorial plane); their fundamental form is therefore the biconvex lens or the flat disk (a shortened cylinder). This important difference is my deciding motive, in separating the latter from the former and in regarding the Pylodiscida as true Discoidea, the more so as they can easily be derived from Archidiscus, the fundamental and ancestral form of the Porodiscida.

One single form of Archidiscus seems to be of peculiar importance in this relation, viz., Archidiscus hexoniscus (Pl. 48, fig. 10). In this species the simple central chamber is surrounded by a latticed ring or girdle, composed of six equal chambers of the same size and form, all lying in the same plane with the central chamber. In a nearly allied species, viz., Archidiscus pyloniscus, the six ring-chambers are different, three smaller (with denser network) alternating with three larger (of looser network); if we imagine the network of the latter reduced to a marginal bar we get Triopyle, and if also this bar disappear by reduction we get Triolena, the most simple form of the Pylodiscida. {562}Even Archidiscus pyloniscus may possibly represent the same form among the Porodiscida as Triodiscus lenticula among the Pylodiscida; this important form indicates clearly the close affinity of the two families.

If we take the latter, nearly identical form as the common starting point of both families of Cyclodiscaria, then probably Triopyle and Triolene must be regarded as retrograde forms, derived from Triodiscus in the one case, from Archidiscus in the other, by reduction of three interradial arm-chambers, whilst three perradial only remain. But it is also possible that the most simple form, Triolene, originated independently from some Cenosphæra, three simple radial chambers, like the latticed central chamber, being derived from the latter by apposition in three equidistant radii, whilst three other radii between them remained free. In this case the other genera of Pylodiscida are derived from their ancestral form Triolene.

Adopting this latter view, we find that all eight genera of Pylodiscida, here distinguished, may be regarded as following members of a continuous series. If the three simple arm-chambers of Triolene, surrounding the equal central chamber, become united at their distal ends by a concentric equatorial ring, then originates Triopyle; and this graduates into Triodiscus by fenestration of the three open gates between the three latticed arms. Whilst these three genera form together the subfamily Triopylida, a second family, Hexapylida, is composed of three other analogous genera, in which the same process of development becomes repeated.

Pylolena, the most simple form of Hexapylida, arises from Triodiscus by the development of three new arm-chambers (of the second order) which are apposed at the distal end of the three primary arm-chambers (of the first order) in the same radius. If the distal ends of these three secondary arm-chambers become united by a concentric latticed ring or girdle, we get Hexapyle (with six open gates, two in each radius), and if its six gates become afterwards closed by loose lattice-work, we arrive at Pylodiscus (a repetition of Triodiscus).

A third subfamily, Discopylida, is formed by the building of a chambered equatorial girdle around the margin of Pylodiscus. This girdle has quite the same structure as the similar chambered rings or girdles of the Porodiscida and Coccodiscida. Between the two sieve-plates of the disk surface is enclosed a variable number (twelve to twenty-four or more) of chambers, imperfectly separated by radial beams, which connect the margin of the Pylodiscus-shell with an outer peripheral concentric ring. In Discozonium this marginal ring is perfect, whilst in Discopyle it is interrupted by a peculiar large opening, a "marginal osculum" surrounded by a corona of spines, quite the same remarkable formation which we encountered in Ommatodiscus among the Porodiscida.

All Pylodiscida are therefore triradial (with three perradial arms and three interradial gates between them), and many of them have a great resemblance to certain triradial Porodiscida and Spongodiscida, perhaps not only a morphological resemblance, but also {563}a true phylogenetic relation. But it is remarkable that we do not find further forms of development in this family, by multiplication either of the arm-chambers (further growth in the three perradii) or of the concentric chambered rings (in the periphery of the disk margin).

The central capsule of the Pylodiscida is constantly flat, discoidal, and enclosed between the two sieve-plates of the surface. Its form is either circular or triangular.

Synopsis of the Genera of the Pylodiscida.

Subfamily 1. Triopylida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with a simple, spherical or lenticular, central chamber, surrounded by three simple arm-chambers, which are separated by three notches or gates.

Genus 245. Triolena,^[284] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with a simple, spherical or lenticular, central chamber, surrounded by three simple arm-chambers. Notches between the three arms open.

The genus Triolena is the most simple form of all Pylodiscida, and must be regarded as their common ancestral form, from an ontogenetic as well as a phylogenetic point of view. The small shell is composed of a simple, spherical or lenticular, latticed, central chamber, and of three simple, surrounding equal arms, which are also simple latticed chambers, lie in the equatorial plane, and are separated by three equal angles or open gates.

Arm-chambers trapezoid, nearly square, of the same size as the circular, lenticular, primordial, central chamber. Surface of the disk smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.045, of the central chamber 0.015, of each arm 0.015.

Arm-chambers lanceolate, of the same breadth as and twice the length of the triangular, central chamber; at the pointed end of each arm is a conical terminal spine (in the equatorial plane). Surface of the disk thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05, of the central chamber 0.015; length of the arms 0.02, breadth 0.016.

Arm-chambers ovate, in the basal half nearly as broad as the hexagonal central chamber, at the pointed distal end with a strong conical radial spine of double the length. Surface rough.

Arm-chambers nearly triangular, at the base half as broad as the hexagonal central chamber, at the truncate distal end one and a half times as broad, and armed with two radial conical spines (in the equatorial plane). Surface of the disk smooth.

Arm-chambers nearly triangular, at the base half as broad as the circular central chamber, at the concave lunulate distal end twice as broad, and armed with four conical radial spines (two on each side of the equatorial plane). Surface thorny.

Genus 246. Triopyle,^[285] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with a simple, spherical or lenticular, central chamber, surrounded by three simple arm-chambers. Notches between the three arms transformed into gates by a connecting equatorial girdle.

The genus Triopyle differs from the preceding Triolene in the development of a simple ring or latticed equatorial girdle, which connects the distal ends of the three arm-chambers, and transforms the open notches between them into three gates. The ring may be circular, triangular, or hexagonal.

Disk circular, three times as broad as the hexagonal central chamber. Three arm-chambers trapezoidal, at the convex distal end as broad, at the base half as broad as the three circular gates between them. Surface smooth. No marginal spines on the girdle.

Disk hexagonal, three times as broad as the circular central chamber. Three arm-chambers trapezoidal, at the truncated distal end as broad, at the base half as broad as the three triangular gates between them. Surface smooth. No marginal spines.

Disk triangular, four times as broad as the circular central chamber. Three arm-chambers nearly triangular, at the narrow base half as broad, at the distal end twice as broad as the circular or roundish gates. Surface smooth. On the margin (in the equatorial plane) three strong pyramidal spines (at the end of the arms).

Disk hexagonal, four times as broad as the hexagonal central chamber. Three arm-chambers triangular, at the base half as broad as at the truncated distal end, about the same size as the {566}three heart-shaped gates. On the six corners of the margin (which forms a regular hexagon) are six pyramidal radial spines, as prolongations of the arm-edges.

Disk hexagonal, five times as broad as the circular central chamber. Three arm-chambers trapezoidal, at the base one-third, at the distal end two-thirds as broad as the three kidney-shaped gates. On the six corners of the margin (which forms an irregular hexagon) six conical radial spines, as prolongations of the arm-edges.

Disk roundish, triangular, four times as broad as the triangular central chamber, which is armed with three radial spines between the arms. Arm-chambers club-shaped, at the narrow base one-fourth, at the distal end half as broad as the square gates. On the margin twelve large conical spines, two opposite on each face of the distal end of each arm-edge. Three smaller radial spines on the three corners of the girdle (in the same interradial meridian planes as the three spines of the central chamber). Compare Triodiscus spinosus.

Genus 247. Triodiscus,^[286] n. sp.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with a simple, spherical or lenticular, central chamber, surrounded by three simple arm-chambers. Notches between the three arms closed by lattice-work and by an equatorial girdle.

The genus Triodiscus differs from the preceding Triopyle in the development of loose lattice-work on both sides of the discoidal shell. This network closes the gates and transforms the whole shell into a fenestrated lens. The singular species of Triodiscus correspond to certain species of Triopyle.

Disk circular, lenticular, three times as broad as the central chamber. Three arm-chambers trapezoidal, of the same size and form as the three gates between them, which are closed by a loose {567}delicate network (differs from Triopyle circulus by the production of the two convex latticed plates, which envelop the whole lens). Margin smooth.

Disk triangular, four times as broad as the central chamber. Three arm-chambers at the base half as broad, at the distal end twice as broad as the roundish gates. Surface smooth. On the three corners of the margin (in the arm-radius) three strong spines. (Differs from Triopyle trigona only in the loose framework closing the gates.)

Disk subcircular, four times as broad as the triangular central chamber. Three arm-chambers club-shaped, at the base one-third, at the distal end two-thirds as broad as the semicircular gates. Surface thorny. On the margin fifteen larger radial spines, three on the corners of the disk (in the radius of the gates), twelve on the two faces of the arms ends (two opposite on the edge of each end.) (Differs from Triopyle spinigera mainly by the delicate hexagonal network closing the gates.)

Subfamily 2. Hexapylida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with triopyle-shaped medullary shell, surrounded by three distal arm-chambers, which are separated by three open notches or gates.

Genus 248. Pylolena,^[287] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with triopyle-shaped medullary shell, surrounded by three distal arm-chambers. Notches between the three arms open.

The genus Pylolena opens the series of the Hexapylida, or of those Pylodiscida in which the centre of the shell is formed by a tri-radiated medullary shell like Triopyle. In the equatorial plane of this triopyle-shaped disk are developed on its margin three distal arm chambers, as prolongations of the three arms of Triopyle, but much larger. In Pylolene the three angles or notches between the distal arms remain open, repeating the form of Triolene.

Arms club-shaped, at the base half as broad, at the rounded distal end as broad as the triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface and margin smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05.

Habitat.—Equatorial Atlantic, Station 347, surface; Central Pacific, Station 272, surface.

Arms trapezoid, at the base half as broad, at the distal end twice as broad as the triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface and margin thorny. Twelve strong conical spines at the distal end of the three arms, two opposite on both faces of the arm-edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.06.

Genus 249. Hexapyle,^[288] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with triopyle-shaped medullary shell, surrounded by three distal arm-chambers. Notches between the three arms transformed into gates by a connecting equatorial girdle.

The genus Hexapyle differs from the preceding Pylolene in the development of an equatorial ring or latticed girdle, which connects the free extremities of the three distal ends and transforms the open notches between them into gates. It simulates therefore the formation of Triopyle, from which it differs by duplication of the arm-joints and of the gates (in each radius occur one proximal and one distal gate).

Cortical shell triangular, with three rounded corners, three times as broad as the triangular triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface smooth or rough, but not spiny. Three arms two-thirds as broad as the three egg-shaped gates of each side.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell (or length of one side of the triangle) 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; breadth of the gates 0.06, of the bridges between them 0.04.

Cortical shell hexagonal, with six equal sides, four times as broad as the triangular triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface rough, but not spiny. Three arms (on their smallest part) half as broad as the three triangular gates (on their broadest part).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.04; breadth of the gates 0.06, of the bridges 0.03.

Cortical shell circular, four times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface smooth. Three arms half as broad as the three kidney-shaped gates on each side of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; breadth of the gates 0.08, of the bridges between them 0.04.

Cortical shell triangular, thorny, with three pointed corners, prolonged into three strong conical radial spines; its diameter four times as great as that of the medullary shell. Three arms of the same breadth as the three egg-shaped gates of each side.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell (or length of one side of the triangle, without spines) 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.05; breadth of the gates and of the bridges between them 0.06.

Cortical shell hexagonal, thorny, three times as broad as the medullary shell. Six stronger conical radial spines on the six corners at equal distances, lying in the equatorial plane of the disk. Three half girdles half as broad as the three triangular gates of each side.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.15, of the medullary shell 0.05; breadth of the gates 0.05, of the bridges 0.025.

Cortical shell triangular, thorny, with rounded corners, three and a half times as broad as the medullary shell. Twelve stronger radial spines, six opposite in pairs on each side of the discoidal shell, as prolongations of the lateral edges of the triangular gates, which are about the same breadth as the half girdles between them.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.21, of the medullary shell 0.06; breadth of the gates and of the bridges 0.06.

Cortical shell circular, thorny, with a circle of numerous conical radial spines in the periphery; its diameter nearly three times as great as that of the medullary shell. Three half-girdles half as broad as the three kidney-shaped gates on each side of the discoidal shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.11, of the medullary shell 0.04; breadth of the gates 0.04, of the bridges between them 0.02.

Genus 250. Pylodiscus,^[289] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with Triopyle-shaped medullary shell, surrounded by three distal arm-chambers. Notches between the three arms closed by lattice-work and by an equatorial girdle.

The genus Pylodiscus differs from Hexapyle in the development of two convex plates of lattice-work, which close the six open gates and transform the disk into a biconvex fenestrated lens. Pylodiscus simulates therefore the characteristic form of Triodiscus; but whilst in the latter we find only three arm-joints and three simple gates, their number is doubled in the former.

Cortical shell triangular, with rounded corners, three times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Three arms about as broad as the three egg-shaped gates between them. (Differs from Hexapyle triangula only by the delicate network of both triangular convex covering plates, which close the open gates.) Six larger and many smaller spines on the margin of the disk.

Cortical shell hexangular, equilateral, four times as broad as the circular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface spiny. Three arms nearly of the same form and size as the three triangular gates between them. (Similar to Hexapyle sexangularis, but differing in the irregular loose network closing the gates.)

Cortical shell hexangular, equilateral, five times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface smooth. Three arms triangular, at the distal end as broad as the three heart-shaped gates. On the margin six strong pyramidal spines in the equatorial plane (adradial, as prolongations of the lateral arm-edges).

Cortical shell circular, three times as broad as the circular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Surface spiny. Three arms trapezoidal, half as broad as the three kidney-shaped gates. On the margin twelve stronger, conical, radial spines, opposite in pairs on both sides of the disk, disposed in six pairs at the distal end of the arms.

Subfamily 3. Discopylida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with Triopyle-shaped medullary shell and Pylodiscus-shaped cortical shell, which is surrounded by a marginal chambered equatorial girdle.

Genus 251. Discozonium,^[290] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with Triopyle-shaped medullary shell and Pylodiscus-shaped cortical shell, which is surrounded by an equatorial chambered girdle. No peculiar osculum on the margin of the disk.

The genus Discozonium and the following Discopyle make up together the small group of the Discopylida, or those Pylodiscida in which a discoidal shell like Pylodiscus is surrounded by a marginal equatorial girdle; this girdle is divided into twelve to twenty-four or more chambers by radial beams, which are the external prolongations of the radial marginal spines of Pylodiscus. The latter genus bears therefore to Discozonium the same relation as Sethodiscus in the other Discoidea does to Lithocyclia, or Phacodiscus to Coccodiscus.

Disk circular, lenticular, with smooth margin, three times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Three gates of the cortical shell kidney-shaped, twice as broad as the three {572}arms. Chambered equatorial girdle with twenty to twenty-four subregular chambers (similar to Discopyle osculata, Pl. 48, fig. 19, but without any marginal osculum).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the cortical shell 0.14, of the medullary shell 0.07.

Disk triangular, with thorny margin, four times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Three gates of the cortical shell egg-shaped, scarcely as broad as the three arms. Chambered equatorial girdle with twenty-four to thirty irregular chambers.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.24, of the cortical shell 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.06.

Disk hexagonal, with spiny margin, four times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Three gates of the cortical shell kidney-shaped, one and a half times as broad as the arms. Chambered equatorial girdle with twelve large regular chambers; the radial beams between them are prolonged into twelve strong pyramidal marginal spines (three perradial on the ends of the arms, three interradial on the radii of the gates, six adradial between the former and latter).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the cortical shell 0.12, of the medullary shell 0.05.

Genus 252. Discopyle,^[291] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylodiscida with Triopyle-shaped medullary shell and Pylodiscus-shaped cortical shell, which is surrounded by an equatorial chambered girdle. One peculiar osculum, surrounded by a corona of spines, on the margin of the disk.

The genus Discopyle differs from the preceding genus Discozonium in the development of a peculiar marginal osculum, and bears therefore to it the same relation as, in the Porodiscida, Ommatodiscus does to Porodiscus (compare above, p. 500). This peculiar osculum is here also surrounded by a corona of spines, and serves probably for the exit or outlet of a bunch of pseudopodia or a "sarcode-flagellum." Only two species of Discopyle have been observed, which represent perhaps better two different genera; in one species the disk is circular, in the other elliptical. In this latter the osculum lies on one pole of the main axis.

Disk circular with spiny margin, three times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Three gates of the cortical shell kidney-shaped, on the inside with an interradial spine, twice as broad as the three pentagonal arms. Chambered equatorial girdle with twenty-four subregular chambers, in the radius of one odd gate with a large marginal osculum, which is as broad as the medullary shell, and surrounded by a dense corona of twenty to thirty strong conical spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the cortical shell 0.1, of the medullary shell 0.05, of the marginal osculum 0.06.

Disk elliptical, four-fifths as broad as long, with spiny margin, three times as broad as the triangular, Triopyle-shaped medullary shell. Three gates of the cortical shell roundish, on the inside with an interradial spine, little broader than the quadrangular arms. Chambered equatorial girdle with twenty to thirty irregular chambers, on one pole of the main axis with a large marginal osculum, which is one-third as broad as the length of the main axis, and armed with a corona of twenty to thirty short conical spines. The osculum does not correspond to a certain radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15, of the cortical shell 0.08, of the medullary shell 0.04, of the marginal osculum 0.05.

Family XXIII. Spongodiscida, Haeckel (Pl. 41, fig. 11).

Spongodiscida et Spongocyclida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol.,

pp. 452, 460, 469.

Spongodiscida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Calodictya, Ehrenberg, 1847, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss.

Berlin, p. 53 (partim).

Definition.—Discoidea without a phacoid shell, with a flat discoidal shell, in which a simple spherical central chamber is surrounded by an irregular spongy framework (sometimes with concentric rings around the central chamber). Surface of the disk quite spongy, without porous sieve-plates.

The family Spongodiscida is the sixth and last family of the Discoidea, and bears to the other families of this group the same relation as the family Spongosphærida does to the other Sphæroidea, or the Spongurida to the other Prunoidea. Its characteristic structure consists in the irregular spongy framework of the disk, and mainly in the rough, irregular shape of its spongy surface, which is never covered with porous plates (neither phacoid shell nor corresponding sieve-plates), as in all other Discoidea. Of course a little spongy structure occurs also in many Porodiscida {574}and even in some Coccodiscida (principally in the peripheral part of the disk or its chambered arms); but both flat (or convex) surfaces of the disk (at least in the central part) remain here constantly as simple lattice-plates, whilst in all Spongodiscida the whole surface of the disk is spongy.

When I constituted the family Spongodiscida in my Monograph (1862, pp. 452, 460) I had separated from them the Spongocyclida, exhibiting in the central part of the disk a more or less distinct concentric arrangement of the spongy chambers, whilst in the former the delicate spongy framework is quite irregular, composed of branched siliceous threads, connected and interwoven in all directions. But in all Spongocyclida the whole surface of the spongy disk is quite as irregularly rough and deprived of smooth sieve-plates as in all true Spongodiscida, and the more or less concentric structure of the central part of the disk in the former (very variable and often scarcely able to be recognised) seems not sufficient to separate both groups; even the single genera cannot be sufficiently separated by this character. I now therefore give up entirely the group of Spongocyclida (as already done in my Prodromus, 1881). Nevertheless the concentric annular structure in the dark central part of some Spongodiscida is very interesting as transition to the Porodiscida; it indicates already that the former are derived from the latter. Even the single genera in both families are corresponding.

In the new system of "Polycystina," which Ehrenberg gave, 1875 (Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 157), are enumerated under the Calodictya four genera "with spongy disk," viz., Spongodiscus, Rhopalodictyum, Dictyocoryne, Spongaster. Indeed these four genera, which I here retain, are true Spongodiscida, and must be separated from the other Calodictya, the greater part of which are Porodiscida. The number of species of true Spongodiscida now amounts to sixty-seven, which I dispose in thirteen genera.

The whole family may be divided into three subfamilies. The first of these are the Spongophacida (corresponding to the Trematodiscida among the Porodiscida), in which the circular margin of the spongy disk bears no radial appendages; either the margin is quite simple, spongy (Spongodiscus), or surrounded by a hyaline, solid, or porous equatorial girdle (Spongophacus). The disk is either more lenticular (biconvex) or more flat discoidal (a shortened cylinder), rarely a little biconcave (thicker at the margin than in the centre). The spongy framework of the solid disk is either quite irregular (Spongodisculus), or in the central part with concentric circular rings (Spongocyclia), or in the central part spirally convoluted (Spongospira).

The second subfamily, Spongotrochida, corresponds to the Stylodictyida (among the Porodiscida), and is distinguished by solid radial spines on the margin of the disk, disposed in the equatorial plane either irregularly or regularly (after the same order as in the other families of Discoidea).

The third subfamily, Spongobrachida, correspond perfectly to the Euchitonida {575}(among the Porodiscida), bearing on the disk-margin two, three, or four spongy arms, commonly disposed regularly in the equatorial plane. Here also occurs the peculiar formation of a "patagium," or of an interbrachial spongy framework different from that of the arms, which connects the arms like a web-membrane in the equatorial plane.

The spongy framework exhibits in all these Spongodiscida no remarkable differences, being everywhere composed of fine branched solid siliceous threads, interwoven in all directions, with irregular meshes of very different size.

The central capsule of all Spongodiscida is filled up with the same spongy framework which covers also both its sides. It grows according to the enveloping skeleton, but remains constantly smaller. The form of the central capsule is circular (lenticular or discoidal) in the Spongophacida and Spongotrochida, whilst in the Spongobrachida it enters into the radial spongy arms, developed from the margin of the spongy disk.

Synopsis of the Genera of the Spongodiscida.

Subfamily 1. Spongophacida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with a simple circular disk, without radial appendages on the margin (neither solid spines nor chambered arms).

Genus 253. Spongodiscus,^[292] Ehrenberg, 1854, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 237.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with a simple circular disk, without radial appendages and without an equatorial girdle on the margin.

The genus Spongodiscus represents the most simple and primitive form of the Spongodiscida, or of those Discoidea in which the central disk is more or less spongy, composed of an irregular fine framework. In my Monograph (1862, pp. 452, 460, 469) I had separated the true Spongodiscus (first described by Ehrenberg, loc. cit.) and the Spongocyclia; the former being characterised by the irregular spongy framework of the whole disk, whilst in the latter this framework includes in the central part some concentric circular rings (approaching Porodiscus). In the same way afterwards Stöhr (1880, loc. cit.) separated the genus Spongospira as spongy disks, which include in the central part some spiral convolutions. But as these differences are rather inconstant and not sharply discernible, I think it now better to regard these three forms as subgenera of Spongodiscus. All three have the common simple circular disk, without any marginal appendages.

Subgenus 1. Spongodisculus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy framework of the disk quite irregular, without concentric rings or spiral convolutions.

Spongodiscus mediterraneus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 461, Taf. xii. figs. 14, 15.

Spongy disk plain on both sides, with quite an irregular framework, without concentric rings and without radial piercing beams. Texture everywhere uniform; meshes eight to ten times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.08 to 0.24, of the meshes 0.005 to 0.008.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina), Haeckel; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily (Grotte), Stöhr.

Spongy disk plain on both sides, with quite irregular framework, without concentric rings, but with numerous piercing radial beams which are not prolonged into marginal spines. Texture everywhere uniform; meshes once and a half to twice as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12 to 0.15, of the meshes 0.002 to 0.003.

Spongodiscus resurgens, Ehrenberg, 1854, Mikrogeol., Taf. xxxvB. B. iv., fig. 16.

Spongodiscus resurgens, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., xxvi. p. 117, Taf. vi. fig. 11.

Spongy disk lenticular, biconvex, in the darker centre much thicker than towards the thin periphery, with an irregular framework, without concentric rings, but with numerous piercing radial beams. Texture equal; meshes three to four times as broad as the bars.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, surface; also fossil in the Tertiary rocks of Sicily and Barbados.

Spongodiscus favus, Ehrenberg, 1861, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 301.

Spongy disk lenticular, biconvex, in the darker centre much thicker than towards the periphery, with an irregular framework, without concentric rings. Texture different, in the outer half with numerous radial beams and loose network, the meshes of which are three to four times as large as in the darker and denser framework of the centre.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2, of the outer meshes 0.008 to 0.012, of the inner meshes 0.002 to 0.003.

Spongy disk biconcave, in the peripheral, ring-like, thickened part twice as thick as in the hollowed central part, with an irregular framework, without concentric rings. Texture different, in the outer half looser than in the inner, darker part; meshes of the outer part five to six times, of the inner twice to three times, as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.25, of the outer meshes 0.01 to 0.012, of the inner 0.004 to 0.006.

Subgenus 2. Spongocyclia, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 469.

Definition.—Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with concentric, circular rings, in the outer part irregular.

Spongodiscus cycloides, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 843.

Spongocyclia cycloides, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 469, Taf. xxviii. fig. 1.

Spongy disk on both sides plain, in the central part with five to ten concentric, circular rings, in the peripheral part quite irregularly and densely spongy. Meshes twice to four times as broad as the bars.

Spongocyclia triangularis, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 119, Taf. vii. fig. 5.

Spongy disk lenticular, in the thicker central part with eleven to twelve circular, concentric rings, in the thinner, peripheral zone irregularly spongy. Meshes twice to four times as broad as the bars. (The triangular form in the specimen figured by Stöhr is accidental, produced by the broken margin.)

Habitat.—Fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados (Haeckel) and Sicily (Stöhr).

Subgenus 3. Spongospira, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol xxvi. p. 120.

Definition.—Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with spiral convolutions, in the outer part irregular.

Spongospira florealis, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 120, Taf. vii. fig. 6.

Spongy disk lenticular, in the thicker central part with five to six spiral convolutions, in the outer peripheral zone irregularly spongy. No radial beams piercing the framework. Meshes three to four times as broad as the bars.

Spongospira spiralis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus.

Spongy disk on both sides plain, with twelve to sixteen spiral convolutions in the central part, with irregular, spongy framework in the outer part, pierced by numerous interrupted radial beams. Meshes five to six times as broad as the bars.

Genus 254. Spongophacus,^[293] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with a simple circular disk, without radial appendages, on the margin surrounded by a thin porous or solid equatorial girdle.

The genus Spongophacus, represented hitherto only by a single but interesting species, differs from Spongodiscus by the peculiar girdle which surrounds the margin of the disk in the equatorial plane. It simulates the same formation as Perichlamydium in the Porodiscida, and resembles also Periphæna, &c., in the Phacodiscida.

Spongy disk lenticular, with an irregular, dense framework, in the centre darker than in the peripheral part. Margin of the disk very thin, surrounded by a broad, circular girdle, lying in the equatorial plane, about as broad as the half radius of the spongy disk. The inner part of the girdle is perforated by numerous irregular, small pores, which pass over gradually into the spongy meshes; the outer part is quite homogeneous, solid, transparent, with an extremely thin margin.

Subfamily 2. Spongotrochida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with a circular disk, the margin of which is armed with solid radial spines, situated in the equatorial plane (rarely also on both sides of the disk with radial spines).

Genus 255. Spongolonche,^[294] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with two solid marginal spines, opposite in one equatorial diameter of the disk.

The genus Spongolonche opens the series of the Spongotrochida, or of those Spongodiscida in which the margin of the disk is armed with solid radial spines, situated in the equatorial plane. Spongolonche possesses only two such spines, opposite in one equatorial diameter of the disk; it corresponds therefore to Stylocyclia among the Coccodiscida, to Xiphodictya among the Porodiscida.

Spongy disk circular, with irregular framework, without concentric rings. Both opposite radial spines conical, about as long as the radius of the disk, and four times as long as broad at the base. Margin of the disk nearly smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16; length of the radial spines 0.18, basal thickness 0.045.

Spongy disk circular, with four to six concentric rings in the inner part, with quite an irregular framework in the outer part. Both opposite radial spines cylindrical, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the disk, at the base about as broad as two meshes of the framework. Margin of the disk ciliated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2; length of the radial spines 0.4 to 0.6, basal thickness 0.01.

Genus 256. Spongotripus,^[295] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with three solid radial spines on the margin of the circular or triangular disk.

The genus Spongotripus is characterised by three marginal spines, which are commonly regularly disposed, more rarely in a bilateral or an irregular manner. It corresponds to Trigonocyclia among the Coccodiscida, to Tripodictya among the Porodiscida.

Subgenus 1. Spongotripodiscus, Haeckel.

Spongy disk circular; three radial spines on its margin of equal size and equidistant, strong, conical, about as long as the diameter of the disk, and five times as long as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15; length of the spines 0.16, basal breadth 0.03.

Spongechinus neumayri, Dunikowski, 1882, Denskchr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Wien, xlv. p. 28, Taf. v. fig. 59.

Spongy disk circular, nearly spherical; three radial spines on its margin of equal size and equidistant, pyramidal, nearly as long as the diameter of the disk, and three times as long as broad at the base.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15 to 0.2; length of the spines 0.11, basal breadth 0.04.

Spongy disk circular; three radial spines on its margin of equal size and equidistant, angular, twice as long as the diameter of the disk, spirally twisted like the horns of Antilope strepsiceros.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15; length of the spines 0.3, basal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Spongotripodium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines of different size or at different distances; triangle either isosceles or irregular.

Spongy disk triangular, isosceles, with convex sides; three spines angular, of different size and at different distances; the odd spine straight and twice as long as the two paired spines, which are more approximated and curved concavely one to the other, like

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12; length of the odd spine 0.2, of the paired spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.04.

Spongy disk circular; three spines conical, irregularly curved, all three of different size, and at irregular distances; once to three times as long as the diameter of the disk; margin of the disk thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.1; length of the spines 0.1 to 0.3, basal breadth 0.05.

Genus 257. Spongostaurus,^[296] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with four solid radial spines on the margin of the circular or square disk, commonly crossed in two equatorial diameters perpendicular one to another.

The genus Staurodictya exhibits four marginal spines in cross form. Commonly the cross is regular and rectangular, the four spines being opposite in pairs in two perpendicular diameters; sometimes more or less irregular. The genus repeats Staurodictya among the Porodiscida, Staurocyclia among the Coccodiscida.

Spongy disk circular; four radial spines on its margin opposite in two crossed equatorial diameters, perpendicular one to another, conical, about as long as the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16; length of the spines 0.18, basal breadth 0.04.

Spongy disk circular; four crossed radial spines very large, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the central disk, serrated on both edges, with two rows of strong conical perpendicular teeth (similar to the saw of Pristis antiquorum).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.1; length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.02.

Spongy disk square, with concave sides; four crossed radial spines cylindrical, on the broader distal end spear-shaped or nearly lanceolate, one and a half times as long as the diameter of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.13; length of the spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.01, distal breadth 0.03.

Spongy disk square, with rectilinear sides; four crossed radial spines pyramidal, arising from the corners of the square, about as long as its half diagonal.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 258. Stylotrochus,^[297] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 463.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with numerous solid radial spines on the margin of the disk (five to ten or more), all situated in the equatorial plane.

The genus Stylotrochus comprises those Spongodiscida in which the margin of the circular disk bears numerous radial spines. All these spines lie in the same equatorial plane, whilst in the following genus they are disposed over the whole surface of the disk. Stylotrochus corresponds to Astrocyclia among the Coccodiscida, to Stylodictya among the Porodiscida. The spongy framework of the disk is either quite irregular (Stylotrochiscus), or includes in the middle part some concentric circular rings (Stylospongia).

Subgenus 1. Stylotrochiscus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular, without concentric circular rings or spiral convolutions.

Spongotrochus arachnius, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 464.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular. Eight to twelve marginal spines very long and thin, bristle-shaped, twice to four times as long as the diameter of the disk. (Very similar to the common Stylodictya arachnia, but without concentric circular rings and sieve-plates, with quite irregular network of fine bars.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12 to 0.15; length of the radial spines 0.2 to 0.6, basal breadth 0.001.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface; also fossil in Tertiary rocks of Barbados and the Mediterranean.

Spongotrochus craticulatus, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 118, Taf. vi. fig. 12.

? Spongodiscus aculeatus, Ehrenberg, 1854, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 246.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular. Sixteen to twenty short marginal spines (twice to four times as long as the diameter of one mesh of the framework), free prolongations of internal radial beams which arise from the darker centre of the disk. (The interruption of the disk-margin on one point of its circumference, figured by Stöhr as osculum or "Mündungs-Oeffnung," is probably an accidental abnormality; I did not find it in other specimens.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2 to 0.25; length of the radial spines 0.005 to 0.018, basal breadth 0.001 to 0.003.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 266 to 268, surface; fossil in Barbados and Sicily.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular. Thirty to fifty very large, conical radial spines, about as long as the diameter of the disk, and at the base two to four times as broad as one mesh of the framework (without internal prolongations).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15 to 0.2; length of the radial spines 0.16 to 0.24, basal breadth 0.008 to 0.016.

Spongosphæra rhabdostyla, Ehrenberg, 1875, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 256, Taf. xxvi. figs. 1, 2.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular. Four very large marginal primary spines crossed in two equatorial diameters, perpendicular one to another, and between them numerous (twelve to twenty or more) smaller secondary spines. The latter arise from the margin, whilst the former pierce the disk and are nearly united in its centre. All the spines are cylindrical, the smaller as broad as one mesh, the larger three to six times as broad.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2; length of the four main spines 0.15 to 0.3, breadth 0.01 to 0.02; length of the accessory spines 0.05 to 0.1, breadth 0.005.

Spongotrochus heteracanthus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 464.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular. Ten very long needle-shaped marginal spines (symmetrically distributed), and between them numerous very fine, shorter, accessory, bristle-shaped spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16; length of the main spines 0.16, basal breadth 0.002; length of the secondary spines 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Stylospongia, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 473.

Definition.—Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with concentric rings or spiral convolutions, in the outer part quite irregular.

Stylospongia huxleyi, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 473, Taf. xxviii. fig. 7.

Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with five concentric rings, in the outer part quite irregular. Ten marginal spines, conical at the base, about as long as the radius of the disk, without inner piercing prolongations.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.12; length of the radial spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.003.

Stylospongidium geddesii, Haeckel, 1881, Atlas (pl. xli. fig. 11).

Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with four to eight concentric rings (or partially spiral convolutions), in the outer part quite irregular. Thirty to fifty pyramidal marginal spines of variable size, one-fourth to one-half as long as the radius of the disk, outer prolongations of inner piercing radial beams, which arise from various concentric rings. I call this interesting species, which is intermediate between Stylodictya and Stylotrochus, in honour of the morphologist Mr. Patrick Geddes of Edinburgh.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.15 to 0.25; length of the radial spines 0.03 to 0.06, basal breadth 0.004 to 0.01.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, in 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Genus 259. Spongotrochus,^[298] Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 844.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with numerous solid radial spines (five to ten or more), which are scattered over the whole surface and the margin of the disk, or regularly disposed on both sides of it.

The genus Spongotrochus differs from the foregoing and nearly allied genus by the distribution of the numerous radial spines. These are not confined to the margin of the disk, but also scattered on its whole surface, and sometimes symmetrically disposed on both its sides in a regular manner. Also in this genus the spongy framework is sometimes quite irregular (Spongotrochiscus), at other times in the middle part with enclosed concentric rings (Stylospongidium).

Subgenus 1. Spongotrochiscus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 463.

Definition.—Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular, without concentric rings or spiral convolutions.

Spongotrochus brevispinus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 462, Taf. xxvii. figs. 4, 5.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular, everywhere equal. The whole surface of the disk covered with numerous short, needle-shaped, radial spines, about as long as the thickness of the disk, which is one-fifth of its diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.18; length of the radial spines 0.03 to 0.04, basal breadth 0.002.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular, in the centre darker. The whole surface of the disk covered with numerous conical radial spines, about as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.22; length of the radial spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.008.

Spongotrochus longispinus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 463, Taf xxvii. figs. 2, 3.

Spongy framework of the whole disk irregular, everywhere equal. Surface thorny. Twenty long, needle-shaped, radial spines, about as long as the diameter of the disk, symmetrically distributed in pairs on both flat sides of the disk, so that the opposite pairs lie in five equidistant, meridian planes (compare the figures).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.2; length of the twenty radial spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.001.

Subgenus 2. Stylospongidium, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 460.

Definition.—Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with concentric rings or spiral convolutions, in the outer part quite irregular.

Spongotrochus ehrenbergii, Bütschli, 1882, L. N. 41, Taf. xxvi. figs. 1a, 1b.

Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with four to six concentric rings, in the outer part quite irregular. The whole surface of the disk covered with bristle-shaped radial spines, about half as long as the radius of the disk.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.24; length of the radial spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Spongy framework of the disk in the inner part with five to eight spiral convolutions (or partly concentric rings), in the outer part quite irregular. Thirty to forty long, bristle-shaped, radial spines, about as long as the diameter of the disk, disposed on both flat sides of the disk, but not on the margin.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the disk 0.16; length of the radial spines 0.18, basal breadth 0.003.

Subfamily 3. Spongobrachida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with two or more (commonly three or four) spongy radial arms on the margin of the disk, situated in its equatorial plane (with or without a connecting patagium between the arms).

Genus 260. Spongolena,^[299] n. gen.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with two opposite spongy arms on the margin of the disk, without a connecting patagium.

The genus Spongolena opens the series of the Spongobrachida, or of the Spongodiscida provided with radial spongy arms on the margin of the disk. Spongolena is the most simple form of this subfamily, and bears only two simple opposite arms, without a connecting patagium. It corresponds to Amphibrachium (Porodiscida) and to Diplactura (Coccodiscida). Also there is no patagium. Spongolena may easily be confounded with Spongurus (compare my Prodromus, 1881, p. 461); but in the true Spongurus (an ellipsoid) the transverse section is circular, in Spongolena elliptical.

Arms club-shaped, three times as long as broad, at the rounded distal end twice as broad as at the base, and twice as long as the diameter of the circular central disk. Surface nearly smooth.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms (or the distance from the centre to the distal arm-end) 0.16, distal breadth 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Arms nearly cylindrical, twice as long as broad, and a little longer than the diameter of the elliptical central disk. Surface thorny, some longer bristle-shaped spines on the distal end of the {588}arms. (Very similar to the ellipsoid Spongurus cylindricus, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 465, Taf. xxvii. fig. 1, but differs in the compressed lenticular (not ellipsoidal) form of the central disk; the transverse section of the arm is elliptical, not circular.)

Arms nearly triangular, not longer than broad, about half as large as the elliptical central disk, at the broader distal end with two very large, widely divergent lateral spines, and between them several smaller, like the tail of a swallow. Surface thorny.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2, distal breadth (without spines) 0.15, basal breadth 0.07.

Genus 261. Spongobrachium,^[300] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 461.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with two opposite spongy arms on the margin of the disk, connected by a spongy patagium of different texture.

The genus Spongobrachium differs from the foregoing only in the loose spongy patagium, which envelops both opposite spongy arms. It corresponds to Amphymenium among the Porodiscida and to Amphiactura among the Coccodiscida.

Spongocyclia elliptica, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 470, Taf. xxviii. fig. 2.

Spongodiscus ellipticus, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 844.

Arms nearly square, scarcely as long and broad as the radius of the circular central disk, at the broader distal end truncated. Patagium complete, enveloping the whole disk with the arms, and forming a larger elliptical disk of looser framework. (In my Monograph, 1862, loc. cit., I had not distinguished the opposite darker arms, opposite in the longer axis of the elliptical disk, from the enveloping looser framework of the patagium. In larger specimens of the Challenger collection this distinction is very evident.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.12, breadth 0.05; major axis of the elliptical patagium 0.24, minor 0.16.

Arms club-shaped, twice as long as broad, at the distal end pointed, five times as long as the radius of the circular central disk. Patagium complete, enveloping the whole disk with the arms, {589}and forming a larger lanceolate disk of looser framework. (Similar in form to Amphymenium pupula, Pl. 44, fig. 8, but with an irregular spongy framework and pointed ends.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.16, breadth 0.05; major axis of the lanceolate patagium 0.32, minor axis 0.12.

Genus 262. Rhopalodictyum,^[301] Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 830.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with three spongy arms on the margin of the circular or triangular disk, without a connecting patagium.

The genus Rhopalodictyum comprises those very common forms of Spongodiscida in which the margin of the disk is provided with three simple, free, spongy arms. It corresponds to Dictyastrum and Rhopalastrum among the Porodiscida, to Trigonactura among the Coccodiscida. The typical species of this genus is Rhopalodictyum abyssorum of Ehrenberg, the only species figured by him. His diagnosis of the genus was very insufficient, and agreed with that of his Dictyastrum (compare above the improved diagnosis of this genus, p. 526, and my Monograph, p. 466).

Subgenus 1. Rhopalodictya, Haeckel.

Definition.—Triangular shell regular, with three arms of equal size and equidistant.

Rhopalodictyum abyssorum, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 299, Taf. viii. fig. 17.

Arms of equal size and equidistant, club-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the triangular central disk, and a little longer than the breadth of the pear-shaped rounded distal end. Surface rough.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.11, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.06.

Rhopalodictyum truncatum, Ehrenberg, 1861, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 301.

? Dictyastrum angulatum, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 289, Taf. viii. fig. 18.

Arms of equal size and equidistant, nearly square, with straight edges, towards the truncated end a little broader, about of the same diameter as the central triangular disk. This species is indicated {590}by Ehrenberg only by the short diagnosis, "Radiis stellæ tribus apice truncatis." It is probably identical with his figure of Dictyastrum angulatum (loc. cit.). This latter name I have retained for the similar Porodiscid (above, p. 526), mainly because the genera Dictyastrum and Rhopalodictyum, according to the insufficient diagnosis of Ehrenberg, seem to be identical. (Compare my Monograph, 1862, p. 466.)

Dimensions.—Radius of each arm 0.13, basal breadth 0.09, distal breadth 0.1.

Habitat.—Tropical Pacific, Philippine Sea, Station 200, depth 250 fathoms; Atlantic (Mexican Gulf Stream).

Rhopalodictyum subacutum, Ehrenberg, 1861, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 301.

Arms of equal size and equidistant, club-shaped, three times as long as the diameter of the central disk, which equals the breadth of the thickened distal end; the latter is armed with a strong pyramidal terminal spine. (The diagnosis of Ehrenberg is "Radiis stellæ tribus, apice cuneatis subacutis.")

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2, basal breadth 0.04, distal breadth 0.07.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, surface and various depths; Greenland; Mexican Gulf Stream; Færöe Channel (John Murray).

Arms of equal size and equidistant, in the distal half forked, twice as long as the diameter of the central disk; both fork branches half as broad as the simple basal part, truncated at the distal end.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.16, basal breadth 0.08, distal breadth 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Triactinosphæra, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d.

Definition.—Triangular shell bilateral or irregular, with three arms of different size or distance.

Triactinosphæra zittelii, Dunikowski, 1882, Denkschr. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss, Wien, vol. 45, ii. p. 192.

Arms of different size and at unequal distances, one odd arm being a little shorter than the two paired arms; the odd angle between the latter is larger than the paired angles between them and the {591}former. Arms club-shaped, their basal semi-cylindrical, half as broad as the spherical distal half, which bears a strong, conical, terminal spine. The discoverer of this remarkable, very old, Liassic species, Dunikowski, supposes that it is not a true Discoid, from the absence of a central disk; in my opinion the central disk (nearly spherical) has the same relation to the arms as in many other Discoidea, their equatorial plane is the same.

Dimensions.—Radius of the odd arm 0.18, of the paired arms 0.24; basal breadth 0.08, distal breadth 0.16.

Arms of different size and at unequal distances, one odd arm being twice as long as both paired arms; the odd angle between the latter much larger than both equal paired angles. Arms nearly cylindrical, little flattened, three to six times as long as broad, with rounded blunt distal end.

Arms of different size and at unequal distances, irregular, more or less curved, nearly cylindrical, five to ten times as long as broad, with rounded blunt distal end. (There were observed only two specimens of this remarkable irregular species; in one specimen all three arms were simple, in the other one odd arm forked. The length of the arms and the size of the angles between them seems to be very different and variable.)

Genus 263. Dictyocoryne,^[302] Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 830.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with three spongy arms on the margin of the circular or triangular disk, connected by a spongy patagium of different texture.

The genus Dictyocoryne differs from the foregoing Rhopalodictyum only in the patagium, connecting the three spongy arms, and bears to it the same relation as in the Porodiscida Euchitonia does to Rhopalastrum. The typical species of this genus is Dictyocoryne profunda, the only species figured by Ehrenberg. After his {592}insufficient diagnosis Dictyocoryne was identical with his Spongaster (compare my Monograph, p. 467); but as the type of this latter genus (Spongaster tetras) figured by him, 1872, had four crossed arms, we retain this genus here separate.

Subgenus 1. Dictyocorynula, Haeckel.

Definition.—Triangular shell regular, with three arms of equal size and equal distance.

Dictyocoryne profunda, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 307, Taf. vii. fig. 23.

Arms of equal size and equidistant, club-shaped, in the outer circular half three times as broad as in the inner cylindrical half, and much larger than the small triangular central disk. Patagium complete, forming an equilateral triangle with rounded corners.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.14, basal breadth 0.025, distal breadth 0.07.

Habitat.—Pacific, Philippine Sea, depth 3300 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 198, depth 2150 fathoms; Station 274, depth 2750 fathoms.

Arms of equal size and equidistant, club-shaped, their outer circular half is quite as large as the circular central disk, and is connected with it by the thin cylindrical inner half, which is scarcely one-fourth as broad. Patagium complete, forming an equilateral triangle with rounded corners and convex sides.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.16, basal breadth 0.02, distal breadth 0.08.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 271 to 274, in 2350 to 2750 fathoms.

Dictyocoryne euchitonia, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 468.

Arms of equal size and equidistant, lanceolate, twice as long as broad in the distal part, and three times as long as the small circular central disk. Patagium complete, forming an equilateral triangle with pointed corners. (Very similar to Euchitonia köllikeri, Monograph, 1862, p. 511, Taf. xxxi. fig. 6, but quite spongy, not concentric.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.15, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.06.

Arms of equal size and equidistant, lanceolate, three times as long as broad in the middle part, and as the diameter of the triangular central disk; their distal end armed with a strong conical radial spine. Patagium complete, forming an equilateral triangle with pointed corners.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2, basal breadth 0.02, distal breadth 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Dictyocorynium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Triangular shell bilateral or irregular, with three arms of different sizes or at different distances.

Spongocyclia charybdaea, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 472, Taf. xxviii. figs. 5, 6.

Spongodiscus charybdaeus, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 844.

Arms at different distances, nearly equilateral triangular, scarcely half as long as the radius of the large circular central disk. Both paired arms touching at their bases, separated by a great distance from the opposite odd arm. Patagium complete, nearly pentagonal. (The illustration in my Monograph, in the coloured plate xxviii., is better than my description, as I had not exactly separated the arms from the patagium.)

Dictyocoryne pentagona, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 118, Taf. vii. fig. 2.

Arms at different distances, club-shaped, little longer than broad at their rounded distal end. Both paired arms smaller and more approximate than the opposite odd arm. Patagium complete, very large, enveloping the whole shell, and forming a pentagon with rectilinear base and transverse constriction, and with five rounded corners.

Dictyocoryne agrigentina, Stöhr, 1880, Palæontogr., vol. xxvi. p. 118, Taf. vii. fig. 1.

Arms at different distances, club-shaped, about twice as long as broad, and smaller than the large triangular central disk. Both paired arms smaller and more approximate than the opposite odd {594}arm. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms as a circular spongy disk of loose framework.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.18, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.08.

Arms unequal and at different distances, club-shaped, in the distal half twice as broad as in the basal half, three times as long as the small triangular central disk, at their distal end armed with one larger and several smaller conical spines. Both paired arms with touching bases, and only half as large as the doubly remote odd arm. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms, and forming a circular disk of looser framework. Surface thorny.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.15 to 0.2, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.06.

Genus 264. Spongasteriscus,^[303] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 474 (sensu restricto).

Definition.—Spongodiscida with four spongy arms on the margin of the circular or quadrangular disk, crossed in two equatorial diameters, without a connecting patagium.

The genus Spongasteriscus (in the restricted definition here stated) exhibits on the margin of the disk four spongy arms, which form either a regular or a bilateral cross. It corresponds to Stauralastrum and Myelastrum among the Porodiscida, to Astractura among the Coccodiscida.

Subgenus 1. Spongasteriscinus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cross formed by the four arms regular, rectangular, with equal-sized and equidistant arms.

Arms at equal distances, forming a regular, rectangular cross, egg-shaped, with a broader rounded distal end, one and a third times as long as broad, and three times as long as the radius of the central disk; in the latter three to four concentric rings.

Arms at equal distances, forming a regular, rectangular cross, club-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the central disk, and at their rounded distal end one and a third times as long as broad, at their narrow base only one third as broad. In the centre five to six concentric rings.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.13, distal breadth 0.06, basal breadth 0.02.

Arms at equal distances, forming a regular, rectangular cross, club-shaped, three times as long as the radius of the central disk, in the distal half nearly circular, three to four times as broad as at the narrow base. The rounded distal end armed with a strong pyramidal spine. In the centre no concentric rings. (Similar to Stauralastrum rhopalophorum, Pl. 45, fig. 1, but quite spongy.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.12, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.02.

Arms at equal distances, forming a regular, rectangular cross, in the distal third forked; both fork branches half as long as the basal undivided part of the arm, which is twice as long as broad. Distal ends of the eight branches blunt, rounded. In the central disk no concentric rings.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.12, basal breadth 0.03; distal breadth of the branches 0.02.

Arms at equal distances, forming a rectangular, regular cross, in the distal half forked; both fork branches of the same length as the basal undivided part of the arm, which is nearly square. Distal ends of the eight branches armed with a strong pyramidal spine. In the central disk no concentric rings. (Similar to Dicranastrum cornutum, Pl. 45, fig. 2, but quite spongy.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.18, basal breadth 0.03, distal breadth 0.015.

Subgenus 2. Spongasterisculus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cross formed by the four arms, bilateral or irregular, with the arms at different distances.

Spongasteriscus quadricornis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 474, Taf. xxviii. figs. 8-10.

Spongodiscus quadricornis, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 844.

Arms at different distances, forming a bilateral or irregular cross, grouped in two opposite pairs; their form equilateral triangular; their length smaller than the radius of the large circular central disk, which exhibits in the interior eight to sixteen concentric rings.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2, of the central disk 0.13; basal breadth of the arms 0.08.

Spongasteriscus tetraceros, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 475.

Arms at different distances, forming a bilateral or irregular cross, grouped in two opposite pairs; their form isosceles triangular; their length larger than the radius of the large elliptical central disk, which exhibits in the interior six to twelve concentric rings.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.16, of the central disk 0.1; basal breadth of the arms 0.06.

Arms at different distances, forming a bilateral or irregular cross, grouped in two opposite pairs; the arms of one pair broader and shorter than the arms of the other pair. Each arm in its basal half simple, in the distal half forked; ends of the fork branches blunt. In the central disk no concentric rings. (Similar to Myelastrum octocorne, Pl. 47, fig. 12, but quite spongy.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2, basal breadth 0.05, distal breadth 0.02.

Genus 265. Spongaster,^[304] Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 833.

Definition.—Spongodiscida with four spongy arms on the margin of the circular or quadrangular disk, connected by a spongy patagium of different texture.

The genus Spongaster differs from the foregoing Spongasteriscus in the patagium connecting the spongy arms, and bears therefore to it the same relation as, in the Porodiscida, Histiastrum does to Stauralastrum, or, in the Coccodiscida, Stauractura does to Astractura. The typical specimen, figured by Ehrenberg (Spongaster tetras), exhibits a regular, square disk, as also some other species. In a certain number of other species (formerly united by me with Spongocyclia) the quadrangular disk is bilateral.

Subgenus 1. Spongastrella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cross formed by the four arms regular, rectangular, with the arms of equal size and equidistant.

Spongaster tetras, Ehrenberg, 1872, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 299, Taf. vi. (iii.) fig. 8.

Dictyocoryne tetras, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 469.

Arms at equal distances, forming a rectangular, regular Myelastrum, papiliocross, club-shaped, about twice as long as the diameter of the square central disk and eight times as long as broad at their base. Distal ends rounded, perfectly enclosed by the complete patagium, which forms a regular square, with slightly concave sides.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.12, distal breadth 0.03, basal breadth 0.015; length of the square side 0.2.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface and in various depths.

Arms at equal distances, forming a regular, rectangular cross, club-shaped, about four times as long as the diameter of the central circular disk, and five times as long as broad at the base. Basal third of the arms square; distal two thirds triangular, three times as broad, with a truncated distal end. Patagium complete, perfectly enveloping the arms, and bordered by an elegant, radially striated, broad edge, forming a regular square. (Similar to Histiastrum quadratum, Pl. 46, fig. 4, but quite spongy.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.15, distal breadth 0.06, basal breadth 0.02; length of the square side 0.25.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, depths 2350 to 2925 fathoms.

Arms at equal distances, forming a rectangular, regular cross, lanceolate, three times as long as broad and as the diameter of the central circular disk. Ends of the arms provided with a short conical spine. Patagium incomplete, enveloping only the basal half of the arms, forming a regular square with concave sides.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.18, greatest breadth 0.05; length of the square side 0.2.

Arms at equal distances, forming a rectangular, regular cross, of the same size and form as the circular central disk, so that the dark interior part of the shell is composed of five equal circular disks, situated in a quincuncial manner. The clearer complete patagium, enveloping the whole cross perfectly, forms a regular square with rounded edges.

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.2; diameter of each of the five circular disks 0.01; length of the square side 0.35.

Subgenus 2. Spongastromma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cross formed by the four arms bilateral or irregular, with the arms at different distances.

Spongocyclia orthogona, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 471, Taf. xxviii. fig. 3.

Spongodiscus orthogonus, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 844.

Arms at different distances, forming a bilateral cross, grouped in two opposite pairs of equal size and similar form. Arms club-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the central circular disk, enveloped perfectly by the complete patagium, which forms a regular rectangle, the longer side of which is one and a half times as long as the shorter side. (The arms in my figure are not distinctly enough marked.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.08, breadth 0.02; length of the larger side of the rectangle 0.15, of the smaller 0.1.

Spongocyclia scyllaea, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 471, Taf. xxviii. fig. 4.

Spongodiscus scyllaeus, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 844.

Arms at different distances, forming a bilateral cross, grouped in two opposite pairs of different size and form, one pair smaller and less divergent than the other. Arms club-shaped, little longer than the radius of the central circular disk, enveloped perfectly by the complete patagium, which forms a trapezium; the convergent longer sides of the latter are one and a half times as long as the larger, and twice as long as the smaller parallel side. (The arms are in my figure, loc. cit., not distinctly enough marked.)

Dimensions.—Radius of the arms 0.12 to 0.14, breadth 0.02; length of both convergent sides 0.24, of the larger parallel side 0.18, of the smaller 0.12.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Station 272, surface; Mediterranean (Messina).

Suborder VI. LARCOIDEA, Haeckel, 1883 (Pls. 9, 10, 49, 50).

Definition.—Spumellaria with lentelliptical central capsule (rarely somewhat modified or allomorphic), with a lentelliptical fenestrated siliceous shell (often modified or allomorphic, and sometimes quite irregular). Growth different in the three unequal dimensive axes, perpendicular one to another. The typical Lentellipsis is characterised by three elliptical dimensive planes of different sizes, perpendicular one to another.

The section Larcoidea, the fourth and last of the Sphærellaria, comprises all those forms of this group in which the fenestrated shell originally is lentelliptical, characterised by different growth in three different axes, perpendicular one to another, all three equal on both poles. The geometrical fundamental form of the shell is therefore a lentellipsis or a triaxial ellipsoid; and this typical form is preserved completely in the majority of Larcoidea in the pure geometrical form of the central capsule.

The three dimensive axes, which determine the typical form of Larcoidea, are commonly differentiated in such a way, that the first, the longitudinal or principal axis, is the longest; both its poles, oral and aboral (or anterior and posterior) are equal. The second, the lateral or transverse axis, is commonly less than the first, greater than the third axis; both its poles are the equal lateral poles (right and left not differentiated). The third dimensive axis, the equatorial or sagittal axis, is commonly the shortest; both its equal poles are the sagittal poles (dorsal and ventral poles not different). The relative size of the three dimensive axes in the human body exhibits similar relations.

The three dimensive planes of the Larcoidea, the sagittal, lateral, and transverse planes, are elliptical, all three of different sizes. The first plane, the median or sagittal plane, is commonly as regards size between the two others; its major axis is the principal, its minor the sagittal axis; it separates the right half of the body from the left. The second plane or lateral plane, is commonly larger than the two others; its major axis the principal, its minor the transverse axis; it separates the dorsal half of the body from the ventral. The third plane, the equatorial or zonal plane, is commonly less than the two others; its major axis the lateral, its minor the sagittal axis; it separates the two principal halves of the body, the oral and aboral halves.

In my Monograph (1862) only very few forms of Larcoidea are described, Tetrapyle and Lithelius (the latter representing a peculiar family, Lithelida). In my Prodromus (1881, pp. 463, 464) I disposed all observed forms of Larcoidea in two different families, the Pylonida and Lithelida. The rich materials of the Challenger collection have since offered an astonishing number of new and interesting forms of this section, so that I can enumerate here fifty-one genera and two hundred and sixty-five species. I dispose them here in four subsections and nine families. Three of these have regular lentelliptical shells, which are not articulate, and {600}without annular constrictions (Larcarida, Larnacida, Pylonida); these form the subsection Pylolarcida. Two other families (Tholonida and Zonarida) are distinguished by annular constrictions, which divide the regular lentelliptical shell into a number of dome-shaped chambers or cupolas; we call these Thololarcida. A third group, Spirolarcida, comprises the Larcoidea with spiral growth; the two families of Lithelida and Streblemida. Finally a fourth group the Sorolarcida is formed by the Larcoidea with irregular shells, also two families, the Phorticida and Soreumida.

The first family of Larcoidea, the Larcarida, contains the most simple forms, beginning with Cenolarcus, a quite simple lentelliptical latticed shell. In Coccolarcus we find already two concentric shells, connected by radial beams, an inner medullary and an outer cortical shell. In Spongolarcus the lentelliptical shell becomes spongy.

The second family, Larnacida, is very similar to the Larcarida, and seems to diverge only by the different mode of connection between the two concentric lentelliptical shells. But in truth this slight difference is of great morphological importance, as it depends on a quite different and peculiar mode of growth. In the foregoing Larcarida (Coccolarcus, &c.), the concentric shells originate in the same manner as in the concentric Prunoidea and Sphæroidea, by radial beams, which arise from the surface of the inner (medullary) shell and become connected by a network to form the outer (cortical) shell. Here, in the Larnacida, a quite similar shell originates in a quite different way, first arrived at in the Pylonida (Trizonium). Both concentric shells become here connected by peculiar lattice girdles, which are developed in the perimeter of the three elliptical dimensive planes. Firstly, on both sides of a simple, spherical, or lentelliptical central chamber, arise two lateral wings (on the poles of the transverse axis), and build around the former a transverse girdle. This is crossed by a larger lateral girdle, the minor axis of which is the major of the former, and perpendicular to both girdles is yet developed a third, the sagittal girdle. If the open fissures or "gates" between these three girdles become closed by network, we obtain Larnacilla, the probable ancestral form of all Larnacida.

Whilst in Larnacilla and Larnacidium this typical trizonal lentelliptical shell constitutes by itself alone the whole skeleton, in the other Larnacida it becomes overgrown by outer envelops, and so becomes enclosed in the interior of the central capsule as a "Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell." If the enclosing external envelops be simply latticed, we get the subfamily Larnacalpida; if they be spongy, we get the Larnacospongida.

The third family, Pylonida, is the most important of all Larcoidea, as not only the largest and most interesting number of species belong to it, but also many other genera (far the greater part of all Larcoidea) may be derived from it. The peculiar character of the Pylonida is determined by the imperfect fenestration of the lentelliptical shell growing in the three dimensive axes in a quite different manner. Each elliptical dimensive plane becomes circumscribed by an elliptical latticed girdle (or fenestrated {601}ring), and between these three girdles (perpendicular one to another) remain wide open fissures of the shell or "gates" (Pylæ). The beginning of the shell-building is the same as in Larnacilla, the most simple form of Larnacida. From a quite simple medullary shell, a spherical, subspherical, ellipsoidal, or lentelliptical central chamber, arise two latticed wings, opposite on the poles of the transverse axis (Monozonium). Both wings are short and wide hollow fenestrated tubes, the axes of which are parallel to the principal axis. Therefore they form together with the central chamber an elliptical transverse girdle. This first girdle becomes crossed by a second lateral girdle; from both poles of the transverse axis arise latticed wings, which unite on the poles of the principal axis, therefore the minor axis of this second larger ring is the major axis of the first smaller ring (Dizonium). Between the two crossed rings remain four wide open gates. Now follows the development of a third sagittal girdle, arising from both poles of the principal axis and overgrowing the four gates. But as this third girdle is larger than the second, four other larger gates arise between the two (in planes perpendicular to the former four gates). Now we have the characteristic and most important trizonal shell (Trizonium), composed of three elliptical lattice-girdles of different size, perpendicular one to another, and enclosing a simple central chamber. If the four gates of this Trizonium become closed by lattice-work, it passes over into Larnacilla, the most important ancestral form of the Larnacida.

This most significant "trizonal shell," either incompletely latticed in Trizonium (with four open gates), or completely latticed by fenestration of the four gates, in Larnacilla, is to be found in far the greater part of all Larcoidea, representing the medullary shell, which is overgrown by an outer cortical shell. In many Larcoidea, in which this "Larnacilla-shell" is absent, it is perhaps lost by phylogenetic reduction, or retrograde metamorphosis.

The same process of triple girdle-building, by which the typical Trizonium-shell or Larnacilla-shell is produced (Haplozonaria), is repeated once or twice in the larger forms of Pylonida. The first system of three girdles (perpendicular one to another) becomes overgrown by a second system of the same formulation in the Diplozonaria, and this becomes overgrown by a third system in the Triplozonaria; in the highest genus of this group, Pylozonium, we find not less than nine girdles (three systems, each of three girdles). Till now only one genus of the whole polymorphous family was well known, Tetrapyle (with five girdles, three of the medullary, two of the cortical shell). If the gates between the girdles remain open, all these forms must be regarded as Pylonida; if the gates afterwards become closed by a network, they pass over into other families.

The fourth family of the Larcoidea is the Tholonida, distinguished by the polythalamous shell being composed of a certain number of roundish or hemispherical chambers (domes or cupolas), which surround a primordial central chamber in quite regular disposition, lying opposite in pairs on the poles of the three dimensive axes. {602}If we imagine that each "wing" (or open half-girdle) of the Pylonida becomes closed by a lattice-work, and so transformed into a hemispherical or roundish cupola, we obtain the characteristic shell of the Tholonida. Indeed every girdle of the former corresponds to a pair of opposite domes of the latter. The axis of each pair of domes is one of the three dimensive axes.

The primordial chamber of the Tholonida (or the central chamber, around which all cupolas are regularly disposed) is either a simple lentelliptical lattice-shell, like Cenolarcus, or it is a trizonal shell (with an enclosed concentric medullary shell), like Larnacilla. As in both cases the building and the disposition of the cupolas around it are quite the same, we can suppose that the whole family of Tholonida may have been derived originally from Larnacilla (or Trizonium), and that the Cenotholida (with a simple central chamber) are sprung from the Coccotholida (with a Larnacilla-shaped central chamber) by reduction and loss of the original medullary shell.

The family Tholonida can be divided into three subfamilies according to the disposition of the cupola-pairs in one, two, or three dimensive axes. In the Cubotholida lie two cupolas on the poles of the transverse axis of the central chamber (corresponding to Amphipyle); in the Staurotholida we find four cupolas crosswise disposed, on the poles of the transverse and principal axes (corresponding to Tetrapyle); in the Cubotholida are at least six cupolas, on the poles of all three dimensive axes (corresponding to Tholonium). In all three cases the number of cupolas may be augmented by the secondary apposition of other chambers or domes in the same disposition. Sometimes also the whole cortical shell becomes enclosed by an external veil or mantle of delicate network. The lentelliptical (or often nearly cubical) central chamber becomes often reduced, so that its sides are incompletely latticed or widely opened; in some Cubotholida only the twelve edges of the eight cornered cubical central chamber remain; its six sides are quite open and only over-vaulted by the six hemispherical cupolas. From the opposite points of the latter (in the deep annular constrictions between them) often arise radial spines, and these lie commonly in diagonal planes, separating the dome-pairs.

A similar dome-building or a composition of the polythalamous shell by pairs of cupolas we find also in the next (fifth) family, the Zonarida. But here the true cause of the peculiar dome-structure is quite different, not an apposition of new chambers, but the constriction of a cortical shell-like Larnacalpis by two or more constrictions. These constrictions lie in dimensive planes (or in planes parallel to these), and therefore the cupolas are (all or partly) in diagonal planes, a condition quite opposite to that found in the Tholonida. One of the annular constrictions is constantly in the sagittal plane (separating the right and left halves of the shell). The number of the constrictions in the few genera is two, three, and four, and therefore the number of the cupolas four, six, or eight. As this cortical shell constantly encloses a trizonal medullary shell (or Larnacilla-shell), we cannot doubt that the Zonarida must be derived from the Larnacida.

Whilst in all the foregoing five families of Larcoidea the shell-form is regular and their geometrical fundamental form is a lentellipsis (or a triaxial ellipsoid, with three unequal isopolar dimensive axes), in the four remaining families of this suborder the shell becomes bilateral or irregular (with the poles of the axes unequal). In two of these families (Lithelida and Streblemida) the growth of the shell becomes spiral, in the last two families (Soreumida and Phorticida) quite irregular. But as in all four families we encounter the typical trizonal medullary shell (or Larnacilla-shell), we are convinced that they must be derived (wholly or partially) from the Larnacida.

The Lithelida (the sixth family) are Larcoidea with spiral growth and bilateral form (like Nautilus); therefore the spiral line lies in one plane and this spiral plane divides the whole shell into two symmetrical halves (right and left). The axis of the spiral (around which the shell winds) is a straight line, one of the three dimensive axes. In the greater part of Lithelida (in the Larcospirida) the primordial of central chamber of the polythalamous shell is a trizonal medullary shell or Larnacilla-shell, and the growth of the first spiral turning begins as the development of the first (transverse) cortical girdle of Amphipyle; but as one wing (or lateral half) of this girdle grows more rapidly than the other, it overgrows the latter and begins the spiral winding; if the other wing follow and overgrow the first, the spiral becomes double. Each of the three dimensive girdles (of the Pylonida) may begin the spiral winding. There can be no doubt that all these Lithelida (the Larcospirida) must be derived from the Pylonida, by unequal growth of the two halves of one girdle. Perhaps from these may also derived the other part of this family, the Spiremida (Spirema and Lithelius); in these the primordial chamber of the spiral shell is simple, and may be derived by reduction of the original Larnacilla-shell. But it is also possible that the Spiremida proceed directly from the Larcarida, and that their ancestors did not possess a Larnacilla-shell.

The Streblemida (the seventh family) are Larcoidea with spiral growth and asymmetrical form of the polythalamous shell (like Helix or Turrilites); therefore the spiral line is twisted like a winding stair, and the spiral face is curved and divides the shell into two unequal halves. The Streblemida have the same likeness and relation to the turbinoid Foraminifera (Rotalia, Globigerina, &c.) as the Lithelida to the nautiloid Foraminifera (Polystomella, Nummulina, &c.). As in these calcareous Rhizopods also the peculiar growth of the siliceous Streblemida begins from a primordial chamber to which a variable number of roundish chambers (of increasing size) is apposed. But the building of these chambers and of their septa is by no means so regular and complete as in the greater number of turbinoid Foraminifera. As in a part of this family the primordial chamber is Larnacilla-shell, these also may be derived from the Larnacida, but the other part (with simple central chamber) is perhaps produced directly from the Larcarida.

The eighth family, Soreumida, is perhaps derived from the Streblemida by the loss of the spiral growth. The polythalamous shell is similar to the latter, but the chambers are {604}aggregated without any order, like the Acervulinida among the Foraminifera. In some cases also here the primordial chamber is a trizonal Larnacilla-shell, in other cases it is a simple, subspherical or lentelliptical shell.

The last family, the Phorticida, is formed of irregular Larcoidea, in which a lentelliptical trizonal Larnacilla-shell (as an inner medullary shell) is enveloped by an irregular, latticed, or spongy cortical shell. They can be regarded as abnormalities or irregular deformities of Larnacida or Pylonida.

The central capsule of the Larcoidea is originally lentelliptical and preserves this form, the "triaxial ellipsoid," in the greater number of genera. In some groups it follows the prevalent growth of the shell in the direction of one of the three dimensive axes, and becomes prolonged in this way. In many chambered forms (particularly Tholonida and Zonarida) the growing central capsule gets constricted, corresponding to the constrictions of the shell. In the Soreumida and Phorticida its form often becomes irregular. But in general for the greater number of Larcoidea the lentelliptical form of their central capsule is quite characteristic.

Synopsis of the Families of Larcoidea.

Family XXIV. Larcarida, Haeckel, 1883 (Pl. 50, figs. 1, 2).

Definition.—Larcoidea with a regular, completely latticed, lentelliptical cortical shell, without open gates and annular constrictions; medullary shell absent or simple (not trizonal), connected with the cortical shell by radial beams.

The family Larcarida opens the long series of Larcoidea as the most simple group of this suborder. It commences with Cenolarcus, a quite simple lentelliptical latticed shell, which is characterised by three unequal isopolar dimensive axes, perpendicular one to another. The major of these three axes is the longitudinal or principal, the middle is the lateral or transverse, and the minor is the equatorial or sagittal axis (as in the human body). Among the three dimensive planes, which are determined by pairs of these axes, the lateral plane is the largest (halved by the crossed principal and lateral axes). The intermediate is the sagittal plane or median plane (halved by the crossed principal and sagittal axes). The smallest is the equatorial plane or transverse plane (halved by the crossed lateral and sagittal axes). Therefore the shell has all the characters of the true Lentellipsis or of the "triaxial ellipsoid," and its axes agree with the three axes of the "rhombic crystalline system."

In the three subfamilies of Larcarida this lentelliptical shell assumes a different shape: in the Cenolarcida it remains simple, in the Spongolarcida it becomes spongy (sometimes quite filled out with a spongy framework), in the Coccolarcida it is composed of two or more concentric lentelliptical shells (at least an inner medullary and one outer cortical shell). These shells are simply connected by radial beams, and not, as in the Larnacida, by latticed wings (or half girdles).

The network of the Larcarida shell is sometimes regular, commonly irregular (as in the greater number of Larcoidea). The surface of the shell is sometimes smooth or thorny, at other times covered with radial spines. These are often symmetrically disposed, either on the poles of the dimensive axes or in crossed diagonal planes.

The central capsule is a true "lentellipsis" in a geometrical sense; it is halved by three elliptical dimensive planes of different sizes, perpendicular one to another. In the Cenolarcida the central capsule lies freely inside the simple (cortical) shell, only separated from it by the jelly-mantle. In the Coccolarcida it contains the medullary shell, and is enclosed by the simple or double cortical shell, perforated by the radial beams connecting the two shells. The spongy shell of the Spongolarcida exhibits a different relation to the central capsule: in Spongolarcus the latter lies freely in the internal cavity of the spongy shell; in Stypolarcus, where this cavity is quite filled with a spongy network, the central capsule also contains a part of it.

The morphological and phylogenetic relations of the Larcarida to the other families of Spumellaria admit of a different explanation. As this family contains the {606}most simple forms of all Larcoidea, we can regard the Cenolarcus as the common ancestral form of this group, having originated from Actilarcus (or the lentelliptical Actissa) by the building of a simple lentelliptical lattice-shell. But it is also possible that a part of the Larcarida (or all?) descend from Larnacida by reduction or loss of the original Larnacilla-shell (compare Cenolarcus triaxonius, p. 607).

Synopsis of the Genera of the Larcarida.

Subfamily 1. Cenolarcida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Larcarida with a simple, lentelliptical latticed shell (cortical shell without a medullary shell).

Genus 266. Cenolarcus,^[305] n. gen.

Definition.—Larcarida with a simple, lentelliptical latticed shell, without a medullary shell, without radial spines.

The genus Cenolarcus begins the group of Larcoidea as the most simple form of this suborder. It corresponds to Cenosphæra among the Sphæroidea, to Cenodiscus among the Discoidea, to Cenellipsis among the Prunoidea. The simple latticed shell is distinguished from that of the three other genera by its typical lentelliptical form, a triaxial ellipsoid with three dimensive axes of unequal length. Probably Cenolarcus is the original ancestral form of the Larcoidea, derived from Actilarcus (the lentelliptical Actissa) by the formation of a simple fenestrated shell around the lentelliptical central capsule. But possibly also some species of Cenolarcus may be derived from Coccolarcus or Larnacilla by reduction and loss of the medullary shell (compare Cenolarcus triaxonius, n. sp.).

Network of the shell regular, with circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the elevated bars; about ten pores on the half meridian, eight on the half equator. Surface a little rough. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3.

Dimensions.—Principal axis (or length) 0.12, transverse axis (or breadth) 0.1, sagittal axis (or thickness) 0.08; pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Network of the shell regular, with circular pores (without hexagonal frames), three times as broad as the thin bars; about twelve pores on the half meridian, nine on the half equator. Surface thorny. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 3 : 4 : 5.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.15, transverse axis 0.12, sagittal axis 0.09; pores 0.012, bars 0.004.

Network of the shell regular, with circular, hexagonally framed pores, four times as broad as the thin bars; about twelve pores on the half meridian, nine on the equator. Surface smooth. From the inner surface of the shell arise six very thin radial beams, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes; all six beams end freely in a little knob, at an equal distance from the centre; therefore this remarkable species seems to have lost a medullary shell (descending from Coccolarcus or Larnacilla?). Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.13, transverse axis 0.11, sagittal axis 0.09; pores 0.012, bars 0.03.

Network of the shell regular, with circular pores of the same breadth as the thick bars; about eighteen pores on the half meridian, fourteen on the half equator. Surface smooth. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 3 : 4.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.16, transverse axis 0.12, sagittal axis 0.08; pores and bars 0.004.

Network of the shell subregular, with very small circular pores of the same breadth as the bars; only four pores on the half meridian, three on the half equator. Surface smooth. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 3 : 4 : 5.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.05, transverse 0.04, sagittal axis 0.03; pores and bars 0.006.

Genus 267. Larcarium,^[306] n. gen.

Definition.—Larcarida with a simple, lentelliptical latticed shell, without a medullary shell; surface covered with radial spines.

The genus Larcarium differs from Cenolarcus only in the possession of radial spines on the surface of the simple fenestrated lentelliptical shell. These spines are commonly disposed symmetrically, opposite in pairs, either on the poles of the three dimensive axes, or on the poles of certain diagonal axes. Larcarium differs from the similar genera Larcidium, Larnacidium, and Larnacantha by the absence of any medullary shell.

Shell thorny, with two large conical spines, opposite on both poles of the principal axis, somewhat longer than it. Network of the shell regular, with circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; about twelve pores on the half meridian, ten on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 3 : 4 : 5.

Dimensions.—Principal axis (or length) 0.15, transverse axis (or breadth) 0.12, sagittal axis (or thickness) 0.09; pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Shell smooth, with four short three-sided pyramidal spines of equal length, opposite in pairs on the poles of the principal and lateral axes. Network of the shell regular, with circular pores of the same breadth as the bars; about eight pores on the half meridian, six on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.12, breadth 0.1, thickness 0.08; pores and bars 0.006.

Shell smooth, with six short conical spines of equal length (= the shortest axis of the shell), opposite in pairs on the poles of the three dimensive axes. Network of the shell subregular, with {609}circular pores three times as broad as the bars; about eleven pores on the half meridian, nine on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 3 : 4 : 5.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.1, breadth 0.08, thickness 0.06, pores 0.006; bars 0.002.

Shell thorny, with six strong conical radial spines, opposite in pairs on the poles of the three dimensive axes. All three pairs are of different sizes, the length of each spine corresponding nearly to the size of the shell-axis, of which it is the prolongation. Network of the shell subregular, with circular pores twice as broad as the bars; ten on the half meridian, eight on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 3 : 4.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.12, breadth 0.09, thickness 0.06; pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Shell thorny, with eight thin cylindrical radial spines, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. Network of the shell irregular, with roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; nine to eleven on the half meridian, five to seven on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 3 : 4 : 5.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.11, breadth 0.09, thickness 0.07; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003.

Shell thorny, with numerous (twenty to thirty) stronger conical radial spines, about as long as the shortest axis of the shell. Network of the shell irregular, with roundish pores, twice to four times as broad as the bars; seven to eight on the half meridian, five to six on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 1 : 2 : 3.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.09, breadth 0.06, thickness 0.03; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003.

Shell bristly, with very numerous (sixty to eighty or more) very thin, bristle-like, radial spines, somewhat longer than the longest axis of the shell. Network irregular, with very small roundish pores, about the same size as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half meridian, thirteen to fifteen on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 1 : 1.5 : 2.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell (without spines) 0.13, breadth 0.1, thickness 0.07; pores and bars 0.004 to 0.006.

Subfamily 2. Coccolarcida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Larcarida with encased lentelliptical shell, composed of two or more concentric lentelliptical latticed shells, which are united by radial beams (at least one inner medullary shell and one outer cortical shell).

Genus 268. Coccolarcus,^[307] n. gen.

Definition.—Larcarida with two concentric latticed shells, an outer lentelliptical cortical shell, and an inner (spherical or lentelliptical) medullary shell, both connected by radial beams. Surface without radial spines.

The genus Coccolarcus differs from Cenolarcus by the possession of an internal medullary shell. This is quite simple, either spherical or lentelliptical, and connected with the outer cortical shell by a number of radial beams. In the similar Larnacilla this connection is effected by four internal latticed lamellæ (the half lateral wings of the transverse girdle); therefore we find here four internal gates (on the poles of the principal axis), absent in Coccolarcus.

Cortical shell with smooth surface and regular network; pores circular, twice as broad as the bars; about thirteen on the half meridian, eleven on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 3 : 4 : 5. Medullary shell spherical, half as broad as the transverse radius.

Dimensions.—Principal axis (or length) of the cortical shell 0.15, transverse axis (or breadth) 0.12, sagittal axis (or thickness) 0.09; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; diameter of the medullary shell 0.03.

Cortical shell with thorny surface and irregular network; pores roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen on the half meridian, ten to twelve on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 1 : 2 : 3. Medullary shell lentelliptical, one-third as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.17, breadth 0.11, thickness 0.06; pores 0.008 to 0.012, bars 0.004; medullary shell 0.03 to 0.06.

Genus 269. Larcidium,^[308] n. gen.

The genus Larcidium differs from the foregoing Coccolarcus only in the possession of radial spines, and bears to it the same relation that Larcarium does to Cenolarcus. The spines are commonly symmetrically disposed, opposite in pairs in the dimensive axes, sometimes also in diagonal axes.

Cortical shell with thorny surface and regular network; pores circular, hexagonally framed, three times as broad as the bars; about thirteen on the half meridian, eleven on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 3 : 5. Medullary shell spherical, one-fourth as broad as the cortical, connected with it by two thin beams, lying in the principal axis, and prolonged on its poles into two strong conical spines, somewhat longer than the greatest axis.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (or principal axis) 0.15, breadth 0.09, thickness 0.07; pores 0.015, bars 0.005; medullary shell 0.025.

Cortical shell with smooth surface and regular network; pores circular, twice as broad as the bars; about eleven on the half meridian, nine on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3. Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical. On the surface six strong, three-sided pyramidal spines, all about as long as the breadth of the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.12, breadth 0.1, thickness 0.08; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; medullary shell 0.035.

Cortical shell with rough surface and irregular network; pores roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; about fifteen to nineteen on the half meridian, twelve to fourteen on the half {612}equator. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell lentelliptical, of the same form and structure as the cortical, but only one-third as large, connected with it by six thin radial beams, lying in pairs in the three dimensive axes; on the outside they are prolonged into six strong conical radial spines, which are in pairs of different size (as in Larcarium axostylum); the length of each spine nearly equals the axis of the cortical shell, of which it is the prolongation.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (and the principal spines) 0.18, breadth of it (and length of the lateral spines) 0.135, thickness of it (and length of the sagittal spines) 0.09; pores 0.005 to 0.013, bars 0.003.

Cortical shell thorny, with irregular network; pores roundish, once to four times as broad as the bars; about thirteen to fifteen on the half meridian, eleven to thirteen on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 1 : 2.5 : 4. Medullary shell lentelliptical, one-fifth as large as the cortical, connected with it by eight radial beams, which are situated in two crossed diagonal planes (opposite in pairs), and are prolonged on the surface into eight long and thin cylindrical radial spines similar to Tetrapyle octacantha.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.11, thickness 0.045; pores 0.003 to 0.012, bars 0.003; medullary shell 0.02 to 0.03.

Cortical shell rough, with irregular network; pores roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; about twelve to fourteen on the half meridian, eight to ten on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell lentelliptical, one-third as large as the cortical, connected with it by twelve thin radial beams, which are prolonged outside into twelve strong conical radial spines, about half as long as the breadth of the shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.14, breadth 0.1, thickness 0.07; pores 0.008 to 0.015, bars 0.004; medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05.

Cortical shell spiny, with irregular network; pores roundish, once to twice as broad as the bars; about ten to twelve on the half meridian, six to eight on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 1 : 2 : 3. Medullary shell lentelliptical, half as large as the cortical shell, connected with it by numerous (twenty to twenty-five) radial beams, which are prolonged outside into three-sided pyramidal spines, about as long as the breadth of the shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.12, thickness 0.06; pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.008; medullary shell 0.03 to 0.09.

Subfamily 3. Spongolarcida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Larcarida with spongy lentelliptical shell (with or without enclosed medullary shell).

Genus 270. Spongolarcus,^[309] n. gen.

Definition.—Larcarida with lentelliptical spongy shell, containing a central cavity of the same form, without medullary shell (without radial spines).

The genus Spongolarcus differs from Cenolarcus (its probable ancestral form) only in the development of spongy framework forming the wall of the hollow lentelliptical shell. It corresponds, therefore, to Plegmosphæra among the Sphæroidea, and to Spongellipsis among the Prunoidea. From these two similar spongy Sphærellaria it differs in its characteristic lentelliptical form, with three dimensive axes of unequal length.

Spongy network of the shell very loose, its meshes fifteen to twenty times as broad as the bars. Surface of the shell nearly smooth; diameter of its internal cavity twice as large as the thickness of its wall. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 3 : 4.

Dimensions.—Length 0.16, breadth 0.12, height 0.08; thickness of the spongy wall 0.05.

Spongy network of the shell rather loose, its meshes twelve to sixteen times as broad as the bars. Surface of the shell rough; diameter of its internal cavity about eight times as large as the thickness of its wall. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3.

Dimensions.—Length 0.25, breadth 0.2, height 0.16; thickness of the spongy wall 0.025.

Spongy network of the shell dense, its meshes four to eight times as broad as the bars. Surface of the shell thorny; diameter of its internal cavity about fifteen times as large as the thickness of its wall. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 3 : 4 : 5.

Dimensions.—Length 0.2, breadth 0.16, height 0.12; thickness of the spongy wall 0.01.

? Amphicentria salpa, Ehrenberg, 1861, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 296; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1872, Taf. ii. fig. 18.

? Spongurus salpa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 466.

Spongy network of the shell compact, its meshes about the same breadth as the bars. Surface of the shell spiny, with some larger spines around the poles of the axis; diameter of the internal cavity about six times as large as the thickness of its wall. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 1 : 2 : 3. (Perhaps this Spongolarcus is identical with Amphicentria salpa, very imperfectly described and figured by Ehrenberg, loc. cit.?)

Dimensions.—Length 0.14, breadth 0.09, height 0.05; thickness of the spongy wall 0.015.

Habitat.—North Atlantic; off Greenland, 1000 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Station 64, depth (2700) fathoms.

Genus 271. Stypolarcus,^[310] n. gen.

Definition.—Larcarida with lentelliptical spongy shell, composed of compact spongy framework, without central cavity and medullary shell (without radial spines).

The genus Stypolarcus differs from Spongolarcus in the absence of any central cavity. This is quite filled up by spongy framework, which forms the whole mass of the lentelliptical body. Stypolarcus bears therefore the same relation to Spongolarcus that Styptosphæra does to Plegmosphæra.

Lentelliptical shell composed in the whole mass of loose, spongy framework of similar texture, with irregular meshes, about ten to twenty times as broad as the thin bars. Surface rough, without radial spines. Proportion of the three axes = 3 : 4 : 5.

Family XXV. Larnacida, Haeckel, 1883 (Pl. 50, figs. 3-8).

Definition.—Larcoidea with a regular, completely latticed, lentelliptical cortical shell, without open gates and annular constrictions; either this cortical shell or the enclosed medullary shell is trizonal, composed of three elliptical, latticed, dimensive girdles of different sizes, perpendicular one to another.

The family Larnacida immediately follows the Larcarida as the next simple group of all Larcoidea; some genera of both groups (such as Larnacalpis and Coccolarcus, or Larnacantha and Larcidium) may easily be confounded from their being so much alike. In both the lentelliptical shell is composed of two concentric shells, an inner (medullary) and an outer (cortical) shell. But the connection between these shells and the construction of the inner shell is quite different in the two groups. Whilst in the Larcarida the medullary shell is connected with the cortical shell simply by radial beams, here in the Larnacida this connection is effected by two latticed lamellæ, which are the lateral wings of a transverse girdle. Therefore we encounter here for the first time that peculiar mode of growth which characterises the greater part of the Larcoidea, but particularly the Pylonida. But whilst in the Pylonida between the three crossed lattice-girdles, remain four open gates, here in the Larnacida the gates become closed by lattice-work; the lentelliptical cortical shell becomes perfect.

The most simple genus of Larnacida, and no doubt the common ancestral form of this whole family, is Larnacilla (Pl. 50, figs. 1, 1a, 1b). The most important shell of this typical genus is composed of a simple lentelliptical medullary shell and of three elliptical latticed girdles surrounding it, perpendicular one to another. These three "dimensive girdles" lie in the perimeter of the three dimensive planes, the minor (and first) in the equatorial plane, the second (and major) in the lateral plane, the third (and intermediate) in the sagittal plane. Therefore we have before us the same "trizonal shell" as in the important genus Trizonium among the Pylonida. But whilst in Trizonium, as in all Pylonida, the four gates between the girdles remain open, here in Larnacilla they become perfectly closed by lattice-work.

The formation of the typical "Larnacilla-shell" begins with a simple, spherical or lentelliptical lattice-shell, from both sides of which arise two latticed "lateral wings" opposite on the poles of the transverse axis. These two wings are comparable to the lateral chambers of Tholartus (among the Tholonida), but differ by two large openings. Each wing is a short cylindrical tube with latticed wall, open at both ends; the axis of the tube (going through the centre of the open ends) is parallel to the principal axis of the whole shell (and of the central chamber). Therefore both wings form together a transverse ring, the middle of which encloses the central chamber. The distal parts of both wings grow towards the poles of the principal axis; if they became united here, the second (lateral) girdle would be complete. Between it and the first girdle four open gates remain ("Tetrapyle"); but these become overgrown by the third or sagittal girdle, and at last the gates between this and the two other girdles become closed by lattice-work. This perfect fenestration of the trizonal cortical shell, and the complete closing of the gates between the girdles by network, is the only difference between Trizonium and Larnacilla.

In Larnacilla and in the nearly allied Larnacidium (only differing by radial spines {616}on the surface) the "trizonal shell" is an external or "cortical shell," enclosing the central capsule, the interior of which only contains the simple central chamber and the jointed proximal parts of both lateral wings. In the other genera of Larnacida (by proceeding growth) this trizonal Larnacilla-shell becomes enclosed by the growing central capsule and is now only a "medullary shell," whilst on the outside of the central capsule in the same manner is developed an outer cortical shell (Larnacalpis, Larnacantha); and perhaps the same process may be repeated. But sometimes also this cortical shell becomes doubled by a simple envelop of network (Larnacoma). In the Larnacospongida the cortical shell is composed of a spongy framework (corresponding to the Spongolarcida in the foregoing family).

The lattice-work of the Larnacida is commonly irregular (as in most other Larcoidea), and its pores have little signification for the different species. On the outer surface often arise radial spines, symmetrically disposed either in dimensive planes or in diagonal planes.

The central capsule is constantly a true lentellipsis or a "triaxial ellipsoid," characterised by three halving, elliptical dimensive planes, perpendicular one to another. It bears a different relation to the skeleton in the two subfamilies of Larnacida. In the first subfamily, the Larnacillida (Larnacilla, Larnacidium), the central capsule encloses only the simple spherical or lentelliptical central chamber ("simple medullary shell"), and is enveloped by the trizonal cortical shell. In the other subfamily, the Larnacalpida (Larnacalpis, Larnacospongus, &c.), this trizonal "Larnacilla-shell" becomes enclosed by the overgrowing central capsule, which now becomes enveloped by an external, latticed or spongy, lentelliptical "cortical shell."

Synopsis of the Genera of Larnacida.

Subfamily 1. Larnacillida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Larnacida with a simple, spherical or lentelliptical, medullary shell, connected by the lateral wings of a latticed transverse girdle with the simple lentelliptical trizonal cortical shell; the central capsule encloses the former and is enveloped by the latter.

Genus 272. Larnacilla,^[311] n. gen.

Definition.—Larnacida with a simple lentelliptical cortical shell, connected by the lateral wings of a latticed transverse girdle with the simple, spherical or lentelliptical, medullary shell. Surface without radial spines.

The genus Larnacilla represents the most simple form of Larnacida, and at the same time the most important common ancestral form, from which the greater number of Larcoidea may be derived, viz., all those genera which possess the characteristic "Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell." This typical form of medullary shell may be derived from the genus Trizonium among the Pylonida by the closing of the four open gates of this genus. The free opening of these four gates becomes overgrown and closed by lattice-work, developed from the free edges of the three crossed girdles, and thus finally all three girdles are united in the form of a simple lentelliptical shell (Pl. 50, figs. 1, 1a, 1b). Seen from the sagittal poles (or from the poles of the shortest axis, fig. 1), the shell exhibits on both sides of the small spherical medullary shell the two lateral wings of the transverse girdle from the face; seen from the lateral poles (or from the poles of the transverse axis, fig. 1a), one of these wings appears in the optical section as an oblong ring, which seemingly encloses the concentric medullary shell, and on both sides is grown together with the sagittal girdle; seen from the principal poles (or from the poles of the longitudinal axis, fig. 1b), both wings exhibit their elliptical opening (at the right and left from the central medullary shell). The two concentric shells are only connected by the two lateral tube-like wings of the transverse girdle; the lateral and the sagittal girdles have no connection with the medullary shell. The latter is sometimes spherical, at other times lentelliptical.

Cortical shell with smooth surface and with subregular network; pores twice as broad as the bars; about twelve pores on the half meridian, ten on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Internal four gates (between transverse and lateral girdles) roundish-triangular, little broader than high. Medullary shell spherical, scarcely one-third as broad as the lentelliptical cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (or principal axis) 0.13, breadth of it (or transverse axis) 0.1, height of it (or sagittal axis) 0.07; pores 0.006, bars 0.003; medullary shell (diameter) 0.03.

Cortical shell with rough surface and regular network; pores three times as broad as the bars; about ten on the half meridian, eight on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 1 : 2 : 3. Internal four gates (between transverse and lateral girdles) kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. Medullary shell lentelliptical, of the same form as the external cortical shell, but only one third as large.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.1, height 0.05, pores 0.015, bars 0.005; medullary shell 0.02 to 0.05.

Cortical shell nearly spherical, with thorny surface and irregular network; pores roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen in the half circumference. Proportion of the three axes very little different = 1.3 : 1.4 : 1.5. Internal four gates elliptical, one and a half times as broad as high. Medullary shell spherical, one-fourth as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.14, height 0.13; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; medullary shell 0.035.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, with smooth surface and irregular network; pores roundish, very small, scarcely as broad as the bars; about eight to nine on the half meridian, six to seven on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 3 : 4 : 6. Internal four gates elliptical. Medullary shell spherical, scarcely one-third as broad as the cortical shell. (This small species may be only the medullary shell of some other Larcoid, the cortical shell of which is not yet formed.)

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.06, breadth 0.04, height 0.03; pores and bars about 0.004; medullary shell 0.013.

Genus 273. Larnacidium,^[312] n. gen.

The genus Larnacidium has the same shell-formation as the foregoing Larnacilla, and differs from it only in the possession of radial spines on the surface, which in all known species exhibit a symmetrical disposition. From the nearly allied genus Larcidium it differs in the characteristic mode of connection between the two shells, owing to the different kind of growth. In Larcidium this connection is effected only by radial beams, whereas in Larnacidium (as in all Larnacida) by two lateral latticed tubes, the wings of the primary transverse girdle.

Cortical shell smooth, with four strong conical, radial spines in the lateral plane, opposite in pairs, two on the poles of the principal and two on the poles of the transverse axis. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; about twelve on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.12, breadth 0.09, height 0.06; pores 0.008, bars 0.04; medullary shell 0.03.

Cortical shell thorny, with six strong, three-sided pyramidal, radial spines, lying opposite in pairs on the poles of the three dimensive axes. Pores subregular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; about fourteen on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3. Medullary shell spherical, one-third as broad as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.14, breadth 0.11, height 0.08; pores 0.01, bars 0.003; medullary shell 0.04.

Cortical shell very spiny, with numerous (twenty to thirty or more) larger thin radial spines, about as long as the shell. Pores irregular, twice to five times as broad as the bars; about sixteen on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3. Medullary shell lentelliptical, half as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.11, breadth 0.09, height 0.07; pores 0.004 to 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.05, height 0.04.

Subfamily 2. Larnacalpida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Larnacida with a double, trizonal, Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell, enclosed in the central capsule, and enveloped by a simple or double, latticed or spongy, lentelliptical, cortical shell.

Genus 274. Larnacalpis,^[313] n. gen.

Definition.—Larnacida with a simple lentelliptical cortical shell, without radial spines. Medullary shell double, Larnacilla-shaped.

The genus Larnacalpis represents the most simple form of the sub-family Larnacalpida, and is very important as the common original form of all those Larcoidea in which a double Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell is surrounded by a simple, perfectly closed, latticed, lentelliptical cortical shell. Therefore the same typical, trizonal, lentelliptical shell, which in Larnacilla represents the external envelop (or cortical shell) of the central capsule, here in Larnacalpis becomes enclosed as an internal nucleus (or medullary shell) in the interior of the central capsule, and this latter becomes overgrown by a new lentelliptical cortical shell. The connection between the two shells of Larnacalpis is either effected by a number of radial beams (e.g., in Larnacalpis triaxonia by six beams situated in the three dimensive axes), or by two lateral, latticed, tube-like wings, which are repetitions of the smaller lateral wings connecting its external shell with the internal medullary shell (as in Larnacalpis lentellipsis). The latter species may be regarded as a Pylonium with a completely latticed shell.

Cortical shell with thorny surface and irregular network; pores roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; about sixteen on the half meridian, twelve on the half equator. Proportion of the three dimensive axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell one-third as large as the cortical, with four elliptical internal gates, connected with it by two opposite beams in the principal axis and by two latticed wings in the transverse axis; therefore between the two shells are four large kidney-shaped gates, halved by the polar beams (as in Octopyle).

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (or principal axis) 0.14, breadth (or transverse axis) 0.11, height (or sagittal axis) 0.07; pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.005; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04, height 0.03.

Cortical shell with thorny surface and regular network; pores circular, twice as broad as the bars; about ten on the half meridian, eight on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3. Medullary shell half as large as the cortical, with four kidney-shaped internal gates.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.13, breadth 0.11, height 0.09; pores 0.012, bars 0.006; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.045, height 0.03.

Cortical shell with spiny surface and regular network; pores circular, small, of the same breadth as the bars; about twenty-two on the half meridian, nineteen on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell two-thirds as large as the cortical, with four wide internal semicircular gates.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.1, breadth 0.075, height 0.05; pores and bars 0.003; length of the medullary shell 0.066, breadth 0.05, height 0.032.

Cortical shell with rough surface and irregular network; roundish pores twice to five times as broad as the bars; about twenty-four on the half meridian, twenty-one on the half equator. Proportion of the three axes = 1.2 : 1.3 : 1.4. Medullary shell half as large as the cortical, with four elliptical internal gates.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.14, breadth 0.13, height 0.12; pores 0.004 to 0.01, bars 0.002; length of the medullary shell 0.08, breadth 0.07, height 0.06.

Cortical shell with smooth surface and peculiar network, composed of four meridian rows of larger pores (five large elliptical pores on each half meridian, the largest in the equator) and numerous small irregular pores between them. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell with four semicircular internal gates, about one-fourth as large as the cortical, connected with it by six thin radial beams, opposite in pairs in the three dimensive axes.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.14, breadth 0.1, height 0.07; large pores 0.03, small pores 0.002 to 0.01, bars 0.002 to 0.01; length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03, height 0.02.

Genus 275. Larnacantha,^[314] n. gen.

Definition.—Larnacida with a simple lentelliptical cortical shell, armed with symmetrically disposed radial spines. Medullary shell double, Larnacilla-shaped.

The genus Larnacantha has the same characteristic shell-formation as the foregoing Larnacalpis, and differs from it only in the possession of radial spines, which are symmetrically distributed on the surface in a definite order. Commonly these spines are external prolongations of the internal radial beams, which connect the double Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell with the simple lentelliptical cortical shell.

Cortical shell smooth, with two large cylindrical spines, opposite on the poles of the principal axis, and somewhat longer than it. Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; about eleven on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell one-third as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (principal axis) 0.13, breadth (transverse axis) 0.1, height (sagittal axis) 0.07; pores 0.009, bars 0.003; length of the Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell 0.045.

Cortical shell smooth, with four large conical spines in the lateral plane, two larger opposite on the poles of the principal, two smaller on those of the transverse axis. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; about seventeen on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 3 : 3.5 : 4. Medullary shell one-third as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.13, height 0.11; pores 0.008, bars 0.004; length of the medullary shell 0.05.

Cortical shell spiny, with four strong, horn-like curved spines in the lateral plane, opposite in pairs on the poles of the crossed diagonal axes. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; about fourteen on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell one-third as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.14, breadth 0.11, height 0.07; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003; length of the medullary shell 0.05.

Cortical shell thorny, with six strong conical radial spines in the lateral plane, two opposite on the poles of the principal axis, four others opposite in pairs on the poles of the two crossed diagonal axes. Pores with peculiar distribution; twelve large elliptical pores (nearly of the size of the medullary shell) symmetrically disposed in four crossed meridians (between the sagittal and the lateral meridians), separated by bands of smaller irregular pores. Proportion of the three axes = 3 : 4 : 5. Medullary shell hexagonal, one-third as large as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.14, breadth 0.11, height 0.08; large pores 0.04, small pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.004; length of the medullary shell 0.05.

Cortical shell thorny, in the lateral plane with eight strong conical radial spines, alternating with eight smaller spines; four of the eight stronger spines opposite on the poles of the principal and transverse axes (in the figure 5, by mistake, not represented large enough), four others between those, opposite on the poles of the two crossed diagonal axes. Pores with a peculiar disposition; on both flat sides of the lentellipsis an elliptical ring of eight large elliptical pores (alternating with the eight stronger radial spines), separated by bands of smaller irregular pores. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell nearly half as long as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.13, height 0.08; large pores 0.03, small pores 0.003 to 0.01, bars 0.006; length of the medullary shell 0.07.

Cortical shell thorny, with eight long and thin, cylindrical, radial spines, lying opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to five times as broad as the bars; about sixteen on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 1 : 1⅓ : 2. Medullary shell scarcely one-fourth as long as the cortical shell. (This species resembles closely the common Tetrapyle octacantha, from which it seems to be developed by a complete over-growing of the four gates, which become closed by a network connecting the free edges of the transverse and lateral girdles.)

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.13, height 0.1; pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the medullary shell 0.04.

Cortical shell very spiny, with eight longer ramified spines, lying opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes; each spine with two to six irregular, lateral branches. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; about twelve on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 5 : 6 : 7. Medullary shell nearly half as long as the cortical shell. (Differs from the foregoing by the branching spines end the larger medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.13, height 0.11; pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.005; length of the medullary shell 0.07.

Cortical shell smooth, four-sided prismatic, with eight short, parallel, three-sided pyramidal spines; these lie opposite in pairs in four parallel longitudinal lines, as prolongations of the four {624}lateral edges of the prism, and arise from its eight corners. Pores regular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; about fourteen on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 3 : 4. Medullary shell half as long as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.11, breadth 0.07, height 0.05; pores 0.006, bars 0.002; length of the medullary shell 0.06.

Cortical shell thorny, with ten short and stout, conical, radial spines, two opposite on the poles of the principal axis (as prolongations of inner axial beams), eight others opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; about sixteen on the half meridian. Proportion of the three axes = 3 : 3.75 : 4. Medullary shell about one-third as long as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.15, height 0.12; pores 0.008 to 0.016, bars 0.004; length of the medullary shell 0.06.

Cortical shell nearly smooth, but with twelve strong conical radial spines; four in the lateral plane opposite in pairs (two on the poles of the principal, and two on the poles of the transverse axis); eight others opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. Pores with a peculiar disposition: twelve large elliptical pores in two crossed meridian planes (alternating with the twelve spines), separated by bands of irregular small pores. Proportion of the three axes = 1 : 1.5 : 2. Medullary shell hexagonal, one-third as long as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.11, height 0.08; large pores 0.03, small pores 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.003; length of the medullary shell 0.05.

Cortical shell very spiny, on the whole surface covered with a forest of numerous (thirty to fifty or more) large branched spines, about the length of the shell; each spine with three to nine lateral branches, simple or forked (very similar to Cromyodrymus abietinus, Pl. 30, fig. 6). Pores very irregular, roundish. Proportion of the three axes = 2 : 2.5 : 3. Medullary shell half as long as the cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.13, height 0.1; pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.03; length of the medullary shell 0.08.

Genus 276. Larnacoma,^[315] n. gen.

Definition.—Larnacida with double lentelliptical cortical shell, without radial spines. Medullary shell double, Larnacilla-shaped.

The genus Larnacoma has originated from the nearly allied Larnacalpis by duplication of the cortical shell. Whilst in both genera the connection between the Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell and the primary cortical shell is the same, many short radial beams arise from the surface of the latter in Larnacoma, which at constant equal distances from it unite by a network forming the secondary or outer cortical shell. It differs from the similar Druppulida (Cromyodruppa) by the sagittal flattening of the lentelliptical shell and the Larnacilla-form of the double medullary shell.

Shell with smooth surface and elliptical perimeter, one and a third times as long as broad. All four shells lentelliptical. Distance between the two cortical shells about twice as great as the distance of the inner cortical and outer medullary shell. Network of both outer shells irregular, with large roundish pores, twice to six times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Length (or principal axis) of the first (innermost) shell 0.03, second 0.08, third 0.16, fourth (outermost) 0.27, breadth (or transverse axis) corresponding—(A) 0.02, (B) 0.05, (C) 0.11, (D) 0.2.

Shell with thorny surface and elliptical perimeter, one and a fifth times as long as broad. All four shells lentelliptical. Distance between the two cortical shells somewhat smaller than the distance between the inner cortical and outer medullary shell. Network of both outer shells irregular, with large roundish pores, twice to ten times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Length of the first shell 0.02, second 0.06, third 0.15, fourth 0.24; breadth corresponding—(A) 0.016, (B) 0.04, (C) 0.11, (D) 0.2.

Shell with thorny surface and hexagonal perimeter, as long as broad. All four shells hexagonal, connected by six piercing radial beams (two in the principal axis, four others in two crossed diagonals). Distance between the two cortical shells somewhat greater than the distance between the inner cortical and outer medullary shell. Network of both outer shells subregular, with small circular pores, twice as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Length of the first shell 0.02, second 0.05, third 0.09, fourth 0.16; breadth corresponding—(A) 0.015, (B) 0.035, (C) 0.065, (D) 0.12.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, west of Tristan da Cunha, Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms.

Genus 277. Larnacospongus,^[316] n. gen.

Definition.—Larnacida with spongy lentelliptical cortical shell, without radial spines. Medullary shell double, Larnacilla-shaped.

The genus Larnacospongus differs from the nearly allied genera Larnacalpis and Larnacoma by the spongy texture of the lentelliptical cortical shell whilst the enclosed medullary shell in both genera is the same trizonal Larnacilla-shell. Therefore Larnacospongus (and the following nearly related Larnacostupa) can be derived directly by development of a spongy envelop either from Larnacilla and Larnacalpis, or from Trizonium and Amphipyle. But some species of these spongy genera appear to be derived rather from Tetrapyle or Pylonium, perhaps also from Cubotholus. Their phylogenetic origin may be explained in different ways.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a half times as long as broad, with rough surface and rather loose spongy framework, directly enclosing a trizonal Larnacilla-shell of the same form, but of only one-third its size.

Dimensions.—Length of the whole shell 0.17, breadth 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, with thorny surface; composed of an outer envelop of loose spongy framework and an inner lattice-shell with four kidney-shaped gates, like Tetrapyle; the latter encloses a trizonal medullary shell of one-fourth its size.

Dimensions.—Length of the whole shell 0.22, breadth 0.16; length of the medullary shell 0.045, breadth 0.035.

Genus 278. Larnacostupa,^[317] n. gen.

Definition.—Larnacida with spongy lentelliptical cortical shell, with radial spines on the surface. Medullary shell double, Larnacilla-shaped.

The genus Larnacostupa differs from the preceding Larnacospongus only in the possession of radial spines, covering either the whole surface irregularly or disposed in a certain symmetrical order.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, with thorny surface, and rather dense, irregular, spongy framework, which arises from an inner latticed cortical shell, like that of Tetrapyle or Pylonium. This latter is twice as large as the enclosed Larnacilla-shell. Eight long and thin, cylindrical, radial spines, opposite in pairs in two diagonal planes. (Seems to be the common Tetrapyle octacantha, enveloped by an outer spongy framework mantle.)

Dimensions.—Length of the whole shell (without spines) 0.22, breadth 0.16; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, about one and a half times as long as broad, with very lax and irregular spongy framework, arising from a nearly quadrangular lattice-shell like that of Tetrapyle; this latter encloses a Larnacilla-shell of half its size. Whole surface covered with thin bristle-like radial spines, of about the length of the shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the whole shell (without spines) 0.18, breadth 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.035.

Cortical shell nearly spherical, scarcely longer than broad, with lax, irregular spongy framework, arising from a lentelliptical trizonal medullary shell (like Larnacilla). Whole surface covered with thin arborescent radial spines, about half as long as the shell, each spine with three to six irregular branches.

Dimensions.—Length of the whole shell (without spines) 0.15, breadth 0.13; length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.04.

Family XXVI. Pylonida, Haeckel, 1881 (Pl. 9).

Definition.—Larcoidea with regular, incompletely latticed cortical shell, distinguished by two to four or more symmetrically disposed gates or large fissures remaining between one to three latticed dimensive girdles (perpendicular one to another). One, two, or three concentric systems of such girdles (each system with three girdles) may be developed.

The family Pylonida is the most important and interesting among all the Larcoidea, not only because it is much richer in different and peculiar forms than the other families of this section, but also because it has direct and very complex relations to all the other families of Larcoidea. It is even possible that the Pylonida represent the original ancestral group of the whole section, and that the apparently simpler group of the Larcarida must be derived from the former by retrogressive metamorphosis.

Till the year 1881 the family Pylonida, which here now exhibits ten genera with eighty-six species, was only represented by one single species, accurately described and extensively illustrated by Johannes Müller in 1858, the well known and widely distributed cosmopolitan Tetrapyle octacantha (Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 33, Taf. iii.). A slight modification of it was afterwards described by Ehrenberg as Schizomma quadrilobum (Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1872, Taf. ii. fig. 12). A more accurate description of it, with a good explanation of its characteristic growth, was given in 1879 by Richard Hertwig in his Organismus der Radiolarien (pp. 52-54, Taf. iv. figs. 7, 8; Taf. vi. figs. 2, 5). In my Prodromus (1881, p. 463) I constituted for a large number of allied species, detected in the Challenger collection, the special family Pylonida, and distinguished among it twelve different genera. However, I think it now better to restrict the definition of the family as given in the above definition, and to remove from it a number of genera formerly with it united, as the genera Triopyle and Hexapyle, appertaining to the Discoidea.

The characteristic type of all true Pylonida is clearly demonstrated by their peculiar mode of growth, the consequence of which is the imperfect lattice-work of the fenestrated larcoid shell. This remarkable growth is effected by the development of elliptical latticed girdles (or rings), which enclose a quite simple, spherical, subspherical, or lentelliptical primordial shell. The girdles lie in three different planes, perpendicular to one another, and are of different sizes; each girdle being somewhat larger than the foregoing and somewhat smaller than the following girdle. Between these latticed girdles remain on the surface of the shell large openings or "gates," which are not closed by network, and it is just the symmetrical disposition and form of these open "gates," separated and enclosed by the fenestrated girdles, which give to the Pylonida their characteristic appearance.

To understand clearly this peculiar constitution of the Pylonida-shell by a system of alternating girdles, developing one after the other it is indispensable to pay careful attention to the three different elliptical dimensive planes, which characterise all Larcoidea, and to the three different dimensive axes, which bisect those planes. The girdle which first develops around simple primordial shell or central chamber is the transverse girdle, lying in the equatorial plane; then comes, secondly, the lateral girdle, lying in the lateral plane; and thirdly follows the sagittal girdle, lying in the sagittal or median plane. The three simplest genera of the Pylonida—Monozonium, Dizonium, Trizonium—represent these three different stages, with one, two, or three girdles. These three genera constitute the first subfamily, Haplozonaria (with one single system of girdles); all three girdles lie in the surface of a simple lentelliptical cortical shell.

From this first subfamily the other two subfamilies of Pylonida must be derived, by repetition of the same characteristic process of growth. In the Diplozonaria a second system of girdles has been developed, constituting a second (outer) cortical shell of lentelliptical form, concentric with the first. Also in this second system the transverse girdle is first developed, secondly the lateral girdle, thirdly the sagittal girdle. The three genera Amphipyle, Tetrapyle (with Octopyle), and Pylonium represent these three different stages of growth.

Commonly the growth of the Pylonida stops with the completion of the second system but sometimes the same process is once repeated and a third system of girdles is formed, constituting a third lentelliptical shell; in this case also the succession of the three latticed girdles is the same; firstly the (third) transverse girdle is formed, secondly the (third) lateral girdle, and thirdly the (third) sagittal girdle. Each of these three girdles of the third system encloses concentrically the corresponding girdles of the second and first system. The three corresponding genera of this third subfamily (Triplozonaria) are Amphipylonium, Tetrapylonium, and Pylozonium. But in general this highest number of girdles (nine) is very seldom reached; commonly the growth of the Pylonida stops with five girdles (Tetrapyle and Octopyle). More than nine girdles I have never observed, though there remains the possibility of the apposition of a fourth system owing to the peculiar imperfect character of the growth itself.

The central or primordial chamber of the shell, with which in all Pylonida the shell-building commences, is a quite simple, very small fenestrated shell. Commonly one sees on the surface only five to ten small pores (three to four on the diameter). Its form seems to be sometimes spherical, sometimes elongated, ellipsoidal or probably lentelliptical. It may be originally a small Cenolarcus. This simple central chamber, the true "medullary shell" of the small Haplozonaria, is quite different from the medullary shell of the larger Diplozonaria, and particularly of the well-known Tetrapyle. The former observers, J. Müller as well as R. Hertwig, have described in these forms also the medullary shell as a simple spherical or oblong body. But a careful {630}comparison of many hundred specimens of them and of their dimensions, has convinced me that this was an error, and that the small spherical or elliptical medullary shell of Tetrapyle and the other Diplozonaria possesses already the same complex structure, composed of a system of three girdles, as Trizonium and Larnacilla. Whilst in the Haplozonaria probably the simple central chamber only represents the medullary shell (enclosed in the central capsule), and the first system of girdles (complete in Trizonium) the external cortical shell, with the progressive growth this latter becomes enclosed in the central capsule and so constitutes the "trizonal medullary shell" of the Diplozonaria and Triplozonaria.

A very difficult matter is the mode of connection between the cortical and medullary shell. In most of the Pylonida it seems that the first or transverse girdle (in each system) is produced by the formation of two lateral wings or chambers (one on each side of the medullary shell), so that each wing (or half girdle) represents a short and wide, nearly cylindrical tube, the axis of which (with free openings on both poles) is parallel to the principal axis of the medullary shell. In this case (probably the ordinary one) both principal faces of the medullary shell itself (dorsal and ventral face) constitute the middle part of the first girdle whilst its lateral parts are formed by the wings (comparable to the lateral chambers of Amphitholus).

In the second case (probably a much rarer one) there is a free ring-shaped space between the medullary shell and the first (transverse) girdle, and both are connected by a small number of very short and small radial beams (R. Hertwig, loc. cit., p. 52, line 19 to 21 from above). This mode of connection would be the same as is common between the concentric shells of the Sphæroidea and Prunoidea. The distinction between these two different modes of connection is often very difficult.

The second or lateral girdle is commonly not in direct connection with the medullary shell, or only by some scattered radial beams (mainly in the principal axis). This lateral guide arises by prolongation of both wings of the transverse girdle in the lateral plane, so that from both sides (right and left) they become united on the poles of the principal axis. The minor axis of the elliptical lateral ring (thus formed) is therefore the major axis of the foregoing (transverse) elliptical ring; the major axes of both are perpendicular one to another. The major axis of the lateral ring is the principal (or longitudinal) axis of the whole body.

The third or sagittal girdle becomes developed from the second almost in the same manner as the second from the first. On both poles of the principal axis two latticed wings arise from the lateral girdle, growing further in the direction of an elliptical ring, which represents the perimeter of the sagittal plane or median plane. These wings are already mentioned by J. Müller as "prominent roofs, protecting the gates of the Tetrapyle-shell." If these roofs grow towards the equatorial plane of the shell and become united in pairs on the poles of the sagittal axis, the third girdle becomes {631}complete. R. Hertwig supposes that the minor axis of this sagittal girdle is constantly at the same time the major axis of the lateral girdle, but this is not always the case. Very often the size of both these girdles is nearly the same, or one is not much larger than the other. In this case the principal axis of the body is the major axis of the second as well as of the third girdle.

The characteristic "gates" of the Pylonida, or the large wide openings in their cortical shell, remaining between the crossed latticed girdles, are in general roundish, sometimes nearly circular, commonly more elliptical, kidney-shaped or semilunar, their special form varying much according to the different form of the girdles. The narrowest part of each girdle, or its "isthmus," in the case of the halves of the transverse girdle is commonly at their origin from the medullary shell, in the case of the halves of the lateral girdle at the poles of the principal axis, and in the case of the halves of the sagittal girdle at the poles of the sagittal axis. The number of the gates is quite constant in the different genera. If only one girdle (the transverse) be developed, we find only two large gates, between the two wings on the poles of the principal axis (in Monozonium, Amphipyle, Amphipylonium). In all other cases there are four gates (determining the original name "Tetrapyle"), as well if only two or if all three girdles be completed. If two girdles be complete (in Dizonium, Tetrapyle, Tetrapylonium) the four gates lie opposite in pairs on the sagittal faces (two anterior and two posterior gates), and are limited by the transverse and lateral girdles. If all three girdles be complete (in Trizonium, Pylonium, Pylozonium) the four gates lie opposite in pairs on the lateral faces (two dorsal and two ventral gates), and are limited by the sagittal and the transverse girdles. If we turn the shell through an angle of 90°, we have the same aspect as in the former group. A sagittal septum sometimes becomes developed, beginning with two polar beams, rising from the poles of the principal axis. If these polar beams become branched and connected with the middle part of the lateral girdle, we get a latticed vertical septum, which divides the four gates of Tetrapyle into eight gates, Octopyle.

The lattice-work of the Pylonida is commonly very variable and irregular, with roundish meshes of very unequal size, therefore without value in the determination of the species. Commonly the outside of the shell is thorny, and often distinguished by larger radial spines, symmetrically disposed. We can separate these into two groups; "dimensive" spines, lying in one of the three dimensive axes (principal, transverse, or sagittal), and "diagonal" spines, lying crossed in pairs in diagonal axes. Among these latter eight diagonal wing-spines, which arise from the lateral edges of the four gates, are particularly remarkable; they are not only characteristic of Tetrapyle octacantha, but also of a large number of other Pylonida, and form the starting-point for many specific forms.

The shell of the Pylonida is characterised by extraordinary variability and great {632}inclination to individual abnormalities, formation of varieties and transitions into other families, hence derived, as Larnacida, Tholonida, Lithelida, &c.

The central capsule in all Pylonida, in which I could observe it, was a true lentellipsis (or a "triaxial ellipsoid" in the geometrical sense, with the three unequal isopolar axes of the "rhombic octahedron"). In the living Pylonida it is commonly coloured pink or scarlet. During growth its dimensions are probably more or less changed, and perhaps the axes alternate. Regarding the relation of the central capsule to the skeleton, we can distinguish two different groups, quite as in the nearly allied Larnacida. In the Haplozonaria (as also in the Larnacillida) the central capsule encloses only the central chamber and is enveloped by the first system of girdles, whereas in the Diplozonaria and Triplozonaria (as in the Larnacalpida) that "trizonal shell" becomes enclosed (as the "medullary shell") in the central capsule, which is now enveloped by the second system of girdles as the "cortical shell."

Synopsis of the Genera of Pylonida.

Subfamily 1. Haplozonaria, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pylonida with one single system of fenestrated girdles (with one, two, or three girdles, lying in one lentelliptical face).

Genus 279. Monozonium,^[318] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylonida with simple, spherical or subspherical, central chamber, surrounded by one single (transverse) latticed girdle.

The genus Monozonium is the most simple and primitive of all Pylonida, and may be regarded as their common ancestral form; it may probably be derived phylogenetically either directly from Cenosphæra or from Lentellipsis, either by apposition of two imperfect lateral chambers, or by surrounding it with an equatorial latticed girdle. This transverse girdle is composed of three parts, the central chamber and two lateral wings, which represent two short hollow latticed tubes, the axes of which are parallel to the principal axis. On both principal sides (on the anterior and posterior faces) there are two large open gates as in Amphipyle. If we imagine the openings of the tube-shaped lateral wings closed by lattice-work, Monozonium becomes transformed into Tholartus, the most simple form of Tholonida. Probably in all Pylonida the ontogeny of the shell begins with the formation of a Monozonium.

Subgenus 1. Monozonaris, Haeckel.

Central chamber of the shell spherical, smooth, with three to four pores on the half equator. Both wings of the girdle of the same breadth, but of twice the length of the central chamber, with three to four longitudinal rows of pores. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.02; breadth of the wings 0.02, length 0.04; pores and bars 0.003.

Central chamber of the shell lentelliptical, smooth, one and a half times as long as broad, with three to four pores on the half equator. Both wings of the girdle twice as broad, and somewhat longer than the central chamber, with five to six longitudinal rows of pores. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.03, breadth 0.02; breadth of the wings 0.04, length 0.05; pores and bars 0.004.

Monozonium hartingii = Haliomma amphiaspis, Harting, 1863 (L. N. 18, p. 15, pl. 2, fig. 43).

Subgenus 2. Monozonitis, Haeckel.

Central chamber spherical, smooth, with four to five pores on the half equator. Both wings of the girdle of the same breadth, but somewhat longer than the central chamber, with four to five longitudinal rows of pores. On the poles of the lateral axis two opposite strong conical spines (one in the middle of each wing).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.025; breadth of the wings 0.025, length 0.03; pores and bars 0.005.

Central chamber lentelliptical, one and a half times as long as broad, with three to four pores on the half equator. Breadth and length of each wing somewhat greater than that of the central chamber. On the latter two strong conical spines, opposite on the poles of the principal or longitudinal axis.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.03, breadth 0.02; breadth of the wings 0.025, length 0.04; pores and bars 0.004.

Central chamber lentelliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, with four to five pores on the half equator. Both wings of the girdle have the same breadth, but one and a half times the length of the central chamber. Four conical radial spines, two opposite on the poles of the lateral, two on the poles of the principal axis.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.028, breadth 0.021; breadth of the wings 0.02, length 0.04.

Genus 280. Dizonium,^[319] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylonida with simple, spherical or subspherical, central chamber, surrounded by two crossed latticed girdles, one smaller (primary) transverse and one larger (secondary) lateral girdle.

The genus Dizonium differs from the preceding Monozonium in the possession of two crossed elliptical lattice-girdles. The smaller girdle, immediately surrounding the {635}central chamber, is the transverse girdle (the single girdle of Monozonium). On the poles of its major axis (the transverse axis) it is connected with the larger girdle, the elliptical perimeter of which circumscribes the lateral plane. The minor axis of this latter is the major axis of the former. Between the two crossed girdles remain four larger openings or gates, quite as in Tetrapyle. But whilst in Tetrapyle the enclosed medullary shell is a trizonal Larnacilla-shell, here in Dizonium it is a simple spherical or lentelliptical chamber.

Subgenus 1. Dizonaris, Haeckel.

Central chamber of the shell spherical, smooth, with four to five pores on the half equator. Lateral girdle circular, three times as broad as the former. Four gates semilunar, twice as broad as high. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.02, of the lateral girdle 0.06; height of the gates 0.02, breadth 0.04.

Central chamber of the shell elliptical, smooth, with three to four pores on the half equator. Lateral girdle elliptical, three times as long and broad as the central chamber. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.03, breadth 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.09, breadth 0.06; height of the gates 0.02, breadth 0.038.

Central chamber of the shell spherical, rough, with five to six pores on the half equator. Lateral girdle transverse-elliptical, so that its longer axis corresponds to the lateral axis of the transverse girdle, and equals four times the diameter of the central chamber. Four gates kidney-shaped, four times as broad as high. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.05, breadth 0.08; height of the gates 0.01, breadth 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Dizonitis, Haeckel.

Central chamber of the shell nearly spherical, smooth. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, three times as long as the central chamber. Four gates transverse-elliptical, one and a half times as broad as high. Two conical spines, opposite on the poles of the lateral axis.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.03; length of the lateral girdle 0.1, breadth 0.075; height of the gates 0.026, breadth 0.04.

Central chamber elliptical. Lateral girdle elliptical, twice as long as broad. Four gates heart-shaped, about as high as broad. Two conical spines, opposite on the poles of the principal axis.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.03, breadth 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.1, breadth 0.05; height and breadth of the gates 0.03.

Central chamber spherical. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four gates elliptical, one and a half times as broad as high, halved by an axial beam (as in Octopyle). Four conical radial spines opposite in pairs, two on the poles of the principal, two on the poles of the transverse axis.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.025; length of the lateral girdle 0.09, breadth 0.06; height of the gates 0.024, breadth 0.036.

Central chamber spherical. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. Eight radial spines, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.075, breadth 0.05; height of the gates 0.02, breadth 0.04.

Genus 281. Trizonium,^[320] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylonida with simple, spherical or subspherical, central chamber, surrounded by three latticed girdles, one smaller (primary) transverse, one larger (secondary) lateral, and one (tertiary) sagittal girdle.

The genus Trizonium represents the most highly developed form of the Haplozonaria, with three complete elliptical latticed girdles, crossed at right angles and lying in the perimeter of the three dimensive planes. Commonly the first (transverse) girdle is the smallest, immediately connected with the spherical or lentelliptical central chamber. The minor axis of the second (lateral) girdle is identical with the major axis of the first girdle. The third (sagittal) girdle is either larger than both others, or intermediate between them. If the four gates between the girdles become afterwards closed by lattice-work, the "trizonal shell" of Trizonium passes over into the typical Larnacilla, the ancestral form of a great many Larcoidea.

Subgenus 1. Trizonaris, Haeckel.

Central chamber of the shell elliptical. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, one and a half times as broad as high. Ten to eleven pores on the half equator, fourteen to sixteen on the half meridian of the lentelliptical shell. No radial spines on the surface.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.024, breadth 0.016; length of the lateral girdle 0.075, breadth 0.05; height of the four gates 0.026, breadth 0.04.

Central chamber elliptical. Lateral girdle violin-shaped, on both sides in the middle constricted, twice as long as broad. Four gates transverse-elliptical, twice as broad as high. Eight to nine pores on the half equator, twelve to thirteen on the half meridian. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.03, breadth 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.09, breadth (in the middle) 0.045; height of the gates 0.022, breadth 0.044.

Central chamber spherical. Lateral girdle hexagonal, with parallel sides, twice as long as broad. Four gates triangular, twice as broad as high. Eleven to twelve pores on the half equator, sixteen to eighteen on the half meridian. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.025; length of the lateral girdle 0.08, breadth 0.04; height of the gates 0.018, breadth 0.036.

Central chamber spherical. Lateral girdle octagonal; two lateral sides of the octagon twice as long as the two polar sides and the four diagonal sides. Four gates hexagonal, one and a half times as broad as high. Nine to ten pores on the half equator, twelve to fourteen on the half meridian. No radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.01, breadth 0.07; height of the gates 0.04, breadth 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Trizonitis, Haeckel.

Central chamber spherical. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four gates nearly circular. Ten to eleven pores on the half equator, fifteen to sixteen on the half meridian. Two opposite conical spines on the poles of the lateral axis.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.08, breadth 0.06; height and breadth of the gates 0.025.

? Echinosphæra datura, R. Hertwig (partim), 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 54, Taf. iv. figs. 8, 8a.

Central chamber lentelliptical. Lateral girdle lanceolate, nearly one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates subtriangular. Eight to nine pores on the half equator, ten to twelve on the half meridian. Two opposite thin and long spines on the poles of the principal axis, numerous shorter radial spines on the whole surface. Possibly this species is identical with one of the three different Larcoidea which R. Hertwig has described as Echinosphæra datura. His fig. 8, Taf. iv., would be the aspect from the sagittal girdle.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.04, breadth 0.025; length of the lateral girdle 0.11, breadth 0.08; height of the gates 0.03, breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Genoa), Haeckel, (Messina), R. Hertwig, surface; Tropical Atlantic, Station 348, surface.

Central chamber spherical, with two opposite polar beams. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates transverse-elliptical, half as high as broad. Ten to eleven pores on the half equator, fourteen to fifteen on the half meridian. Four conical radial spines, two on the poles of the lateral, two on the poles of the principal axis.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.02; length of the lateral girdle 0.075, breadth 0.05; height of the gates 0.014, breadth 0.028.

Central chamber elliptical. Lateral girdle hexagonal, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates rhombic, two-thirds as high as broad. Eight to nine pores on the half equator, twelve to thirteen on the half meridian. Six radial spines in the lateral plane, opposite in pairs on the six corners of the lateral girdle (two principal and four diagonal).

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.024, breadth 0.018; length of the lateral girdle 0.06, breadth 0.04; height of the gates 0.02, breadth 0.03.

Central chamber elliptical. Lateral girdle hexagonal, one and one-third times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped or nearly rhombic, twice as broad as high. Eleven to twelve pores on the half equator, sixteen to seventeen on the half meridian. Eight radial spines, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. (An intermediate stage between Dizonium octacanthum and Amphipyle octostyle.)

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.03, breadth 0.024; length of the lateral girdle 0.09, breadth 0.07; height of the gates 0.025, breadth 0.05.

Central chamber elliptical. Lateral girdle hexagonal, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates rhombic, twice as broad as high. Twelve to thirteen pores on the half equator, seventeen to eighteen on the half meridian. Ten radial spines, two opposite on the two poles of the principal axis, eight others opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Length of the central chamber 0.04, breadth 0.03; length of the lateral girdle 0.12, breadth 0.08; height of the gates 0.03, breadth 0.06.

Central chamber spherical. Lateral girdle octagonal, nearly twice an long as broad. Four gates hexagonal, one and a half times as broad as high. Nine to ten pores on the half equator, fifteen to sixteen on the half meridian. Twelve radial spines, four in the lateral plane, in pairs on both sides of the poles of the principal axis, eight others opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal axes.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the central chamber 0.025; length of the lateral girdle 0.1, breadth 0.06; height of the gates 0.033, breadth 0.05.

Subfamily 2. Diplozonaria, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pylonida with two concentric systems of fenestrated girdles, lying in two concentric lentelliptical faces (every one system with one to three girdles, lying in one lentelliptical face).

Genus 282. Amphipyle,^[321] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 463.

Definition.—Pylonida with trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell, surrounded by one single (transverse) latticed cortical girdle.

The genus Amphipyle opens the large series of Diplozonaria, comprising all Pylonida, the shell of which is composed of two concentric systems of latticed girdles; the first system constituting the characteristic "trizonal medullary shell" or "Larnacilla-shell;" the second system composed of one to three girdles of the second order. The first system lies inside, the second outside the central capsule. In Amphipyle only the first (transverse) girdle of the second system becomes developed, and therefore on both poles of the principal axis are two large open gates. Amphipyle repeats the two-winged form of Monozonium; but whilst the medullary shell in this latter is a simple central chamber, it is here a trizonal Larnacilla-shell.

Subgenus 1. Amphipylissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cortical shell smooth or thorny, but without large, symmetrically disposed spines.

Cortical shell quite smooth, without any spines or thorns. Both lateral wings (or opposite half girdles) semilunar, with convex lateral crest, three times as long as broad; twice as broad as the trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.03; length of each lateral wing (or principal dimension of the latticed girdle) 0.18, breadth of it (or transverse dimension of each girdle-tube) 0.06.

Cortical shell smooth, without spines. Both lateral wings of the same breadth as the lentelliptical medullary shell, but five times as long as broad, prolonged on both ends into cylindrical latticed tubes, with rectilinear lateral crest.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04; length of each cylindrical lateral wing 0.2, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell thorny, but without larger spines. Both lateral wings nearly triangular, very broad and short, four times as broad as the medullary shell between them, and only twice as long as broad, with rectilinear lateral crest.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.25; length of each lateral wing 0.18, breadth 0.09.

Subgenus 2. Amphipylura, Haeckel.

Cortical shell with two conical spines on the poles of the longitudinal axis (of the lentelliptical medullary shell), without other large spines, but with small thorns on the surface; two to three longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores on each half wing of the cortical girdle.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell (or principal axis) 0.06, breadth (or transverse axis) 0.04; length of each lateral wing 0.2, breadth of it 0.05.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, and with four strong conical spines in the lateral plane, opposite in pairs on the ends of the concave lateral crests (one pair on the end-points of the lateral line of each wing); four to five longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores on each half wing of the cortical girdle. Surface of the medullary shell spiny.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.08, breadth of the same 0.05; length of each lateral wing 0.16, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell with four strong conical spines, two on the poles of the longitudinal axis, two opposite on the poles of the transverse axis (perpendicular to the former). Three to four longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores on each half wing of the cortical girdle, about six pores in the longest row. Lateral crest convex.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.03; length of each lateral wing 0.15, breadth 0.08.

Cortical shell with six strong conical spines, lying in the lateral plane in three parallel longitudinal lines; two on the poles of the longitudinal axis, two others on the poles of the wing axes, which are parallel to the former. Two to three longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores on each half wing of the cortical girdle, about eight pores in the longest row. Lateral crest convex, thorny.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.045; length of each lateral wing 0.09, breadth 0.035.

Cortical shell thorny, with six strong conical spines lying in the lateral plane; two on the poles of the lateral axis (in the central point of each wing), two on the end-points of the triangular crest of each wing (on both poles of the longitudinal wing-axis).

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04; length of each lateral wing 0.13, breadth 0.07.

Cortical shell thorny, with eight long radial spines, lying in two crossed diagonal planes, opposite in pairs. These eight horns are the prolongations of the anterior and posterior edges of each wing, on both sides of its lateral plane; they are of great importance, as appearing (by heredity) in many other Pylonida (e.g., in Tetrapyle octacantha). Lateral crest of each wing without spines, slightly convex.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.05; length of each lateral wing 0.15, breadth 0.06.

Cortical shell spiny, with eight strong ramified radial spines, lying in the same two crossed diagonal planes as in the preceding species. It differs from this in the ramification of the eight horns, which bear six to nine irregular lateral branches, partly simple, partly bifurcate. Lateral crest of each wing spiny, convex.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.045; length of each lateral wing (without spines) 0.2, breadth 0.09.

Cortical shell spiny, with ten strong conical spines; eight lying in two crossed diagonal planes, in the same disposition (opposite in pairs) as in both preceding species; two others opposite on the poles of the principal axis, arising from both poles of the medullary shell (columella-beams). Spiny crest of the wings convex, semilunar.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03; length of each lateral wing 0.12, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell thorny, with twelve large cylindrical spines; eight lying in two crossed diagonal planes, in the same disposition (opposite in pairs) as in the three preceding species; four others crossed at right angles in the lateral plane, two opposite on the poles of the principal, two on the poles of the lateral axis (the latter shorter). Both lateral wings nearly rhombic.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04; length of the lateral wings 0.15, breadth 0.05.

Cortical shell smooth, with sixteen strong and short conical spines, lying opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes; each lateral wing four-sided prismatic, its lateral face concave, both ends truncated, and each end provided with four divergent spines. Length of the wings somewhat greater, but breadth smaller, than that of the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.05; length of the lateral wings 0.09, breadth 0.03.

Genus 283. Tetrapyle,^[322] J. Müller, 1858, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 154.

Definition.—Pylonida with trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell, surrounded by two crossed latticed cortical girdles, one smaller (primary) transverse, and one larger (secondary) lateral girdle. Four gates between the two cortical girdles simple, without a sagittal septum.

The genus Tetrapyle, till 1881 the only known genus of the whole family, was founded by Johannes Müller in 1858, and clearly illustrated by the Mediterranean (and common cosmopolitan) Tetrapyle octacantha, hitherto the best known type of this family. Afterwards (1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 832) Ehrenberg founded the genus Schizomma for a nearly allied form, which exhibits only slight specific differences (compare my Monograph, 1862, p. 434). Some good remarks on the structure of this typical genus and its relations to other Pylonida are to be found in Richard Hertwig's Organismus, &c., 1879, p. 52, but the true trizonal structure of the medullary shell in this genus was not recognised by him, so that his description agrees more with Dizonium. We confine here the genus Tetrapyle to those Pylonida for which Tetrapyle octacantha of J. Müller remains the determining type; the cortical shell is composed only of two perfect lattice-girdles (the transverse and lateral), between which four wide gates remain open. This structure is similar to that of Dizonium; but whilst here the medullary shell is a simple central chamber, in Tetrapyle it is a complete trizonal or Larnacilla-shell.

Subgenus 1. Tetrapylissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cortical shell smooth or thorny, but without large, symmetrically disposed spines.

Cortical shell rough, without radial spines. Lateral girdle circular, therefore the longitudinal axis is equal to the transverse. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. In each half wing of the transverse girdle six to seven longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.05 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.15 long and broad; gates 0.04 high, 0.08 broad.

Cortical shell smooth, without radial spines. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates nearly circular. On each half wing of the transverse girdle four to five rows of subregular, circular pores. (Similar to Tetrapyle pleuracantha, Pl. 9, fig. 9, but without lateral spines.)

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.04 long, 0.03 broad; cortical shell 0.16 long, 0.11 broad; gates 0.05 high and broad.

Tetrapyle quadriloba, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 436.

Schizomma quadrilobum, Ehrenberg, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 815; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1872, Taf. x. figs. 12-14.

Cortical shell thorny, without regular, radial spines. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates nearly circular. On each half wing of the transverse girdle three to four rows of irregular, roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.06 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.16 long, 0.1 broad; diameter of the gates 0.05.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Pacific, surface.

Cortical shell thorny, without radial spines. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, nearly twice as broad as high, with two prominent polar spines on the poles of the longitudinal axis of the medullary shell. On each half wing of the transverse girdle three to four longitudinal rows of large roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.06 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.24 long, 0.18 broad; gates 0.05 high, 0.08 broad.

Cortical shell rough, without radial spines. Lateral girdle with hexagonal contour, nearly cylindrical in the middle part, conical at both ends, twice as long as broad. Four gates heart-shaped, about as high as broad. On each half wing of the transverse girdle three to four longitudinal rows of subregular, polygonal pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.04 long, 0.02 broad; cortical shell 0.14 long, 0.07 broad; gates 0.05 high and broad.

Subgenus 2. Tetrapylura, Haeckel.

Cortical shell rough, with two strong conical spines on the poles of the longitudinal axis. Lateral girdle spindle-shaped, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. On each half wing of the transverse girdle four to five longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.07 long, 0.05 broad; cortical shell 0.18 long, 0.12 broad; gates 0.04 high, 0.08 broad.

Habitat.—Western Tropical Atlantic, Mexican Gulf Stream, depth 1500 fathoms, Schaffner.

Cortical shell rough, with two strong conical spines on the poles of the transverse axis. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and half times as long as broad. Four gates subcircular or nearly hexagonal, about as high as broad. On each half wing of the transverse girdle three to four longitudinal rows of very irregular pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.045 long, 0.035 broad; cortical shell 0.16 long, 0.11 broad; gates 0.045 high and broad.

Habitat.—Western Tropical Pacific, off New Guinea, Stations 222 to 224, depths 1850 to 2450 fathoms.

Cortical shell thorny, with two strong conical lateral spines on the poles of the transverse axis. Lateral girdle elliptical, only four-fifths as long as broad. Four gates elliptical, twice as broad as high, with two prominent spines on the poles of the longitudinal axis of the medullary shell. On each half wing of the transverse girdle five to six longitudinal rows of subregular, roundish pores. (Similar to Octopyle transversa, but without sagittal septum and with stronger lateral spines.)

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.05 long, 0.035 broad; cortical shell 0.12 long, 0.15 broad; gates 0.03 high, 0.06 broad.

Cortical shell smooth, with four strong radial spines, two on the poles of the longitudinal axis, two on the poles of the transverse axis. Lateral girdle nearly circular, quite as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. On each half wing of the transverse girdle five to six rows of subregular, circular pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.06 long, 0.05 broad; cortical shell 0.16 long and broad; gates 0.05 high, 0.09 broad.

Cortical shell thorny, with four strong radial spines, two on the poles of the longitudinal axis, two on the poles of the transverse axis. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four gates nearly hexagonal, quite as high as broad. On each half wing of the transverse girdle three to four longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.06 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.18 long, 0.12 broad; gates 0.08 high and broad.

Cortical shell thorny, with four strong horn-like curved spines, lying in the lateral plane and converging in pairs towards the poles of the transverse axis. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. On each half wing of the transverse girdle four to five rows of irregular, roundish pores. (May be only the young form of Pylonium quadricorne, Pl. 9, fig. 14.)

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.05 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.16 long, 0.12 broad; gates 0.03 high, 0.07 broad.

Cortical shell thorny, with four strong radial spines lying in the lateral plane and in pairs in its two crossed diagonal axes. Lateral girdle elliptical, constricted in the middle, nearly twice as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, one and a half times as broad as high. On each half wing of the transverse girdle three to four longitudinal rows of large, irregular, roundish pores. {648}(Similar to Tetrapylonium quadrangulare, Pl. 49, fig. 15, but without a sagittal girdle and with stronger lateral spines.)

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.06 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.18 long, 0.1 broad; gates 0.007 high, 0.01 broad.

Cortical shell thorny, with four brush-like groups of radial spines on the four diagonal corners of the lateral plane, opposite in pairs in diagonal axes. Lateral girdle nearly square, somewhat broader than long. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. On each half wing of the transverse girdle five to six longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.06 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.14 long, 0.15 broad; gates 0.03 high, 0.07 broad.

Tetrapyle octacantha, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 33, Taf. ii. figs. 1-6.

Tetrapyle octacantha, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 435.

Tetrapyle octacantha, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 52, Taf. iv. fig. 7, Taf. vi. figs. 2, 5, 5a.

Cortical shell thorny, with eight long and thin, cylindrical radial spines, lying in two crossed diagonal planes, opposite in pairs. These eight characteristic diagonal spines (or "angular spines") are the same as in Amphipyle octoceros and many other Pylonida, and arise as prolongations of the proximal edges of the four gates (or of the lateral wings on the eight points, where they are intersected by the edges of the lateral ring). This cosmopolitan, widely distributed and very variable species was a long time the only known species of all the Pylonida, and very accurately first described (1858) by Johannes Müller, afterwards (1879) by R. Hertwig. But in the descriptions of these authors also some different species (such as the following) may be confounded with the true typical Tetrapyle octacantha. The four gates of this species are transverse-elliptical or almost triangular, nearly twice as broad as high.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03; length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.13; height of the gates 0.05, breadth 0.08.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; very common in all warmer seas, Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface.

Cortical shell thorny, with eight strong ramified radial spines, lying opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes, as in the preceding species. It differs from this by the peculiar ramification of the eight spines, which bear two to eight simple or furcate lateral branches arising under {649}right angles (already commencing in a transitional variety of Tetrapyle octacantha, J. Müller, loc. cit., Taf. ii. figs. 5, 6). Four gates transverse-elliptical, one and a half times as broad as high.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.05 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.16 long, 0.13 broad; gates 0.05 high, 0.08 broad.

Tetrapyle octacantha, var., J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, Taf. iii. figs. 7-12.

Cortical shell thorny, with eight strong radial spines, lying opposite in pairs, as in the two foregoing species. On the distal edge each of the four triangular gates is protected by a prominent roof of lattice-work (or "pluteus"), which arises from the distal part of the lateral girdle and connects the two angular diagonal spines of each gate. Therefore the shell assumes the characteristic form very well represented by J. Müller in his fig. 11 (seen from the lateral side) and fig. 7 (seen from the pole of the principal axis).

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.04 long, 0.03 broad; cortical shell 0.15 long, 0.11 broad; gates 0.045 high, 0.07 broad.

Cortical shell smooth, but with ten strong conical spines, two on the poles of the principal axis, eight others symmetrically distributed on both sides of the distal edge of the four roundish gates, and directed towards the transverse axis. Lateral girdle lanceolate, twice as long as broad.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.05 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.2 long, 0.1 broad; gates 0.05 high, 0.07 broad.

Cortical shell thorny, with twelve stronger conical spines, eight diagonal spines in two crossed planes (as in Tetrapyle octacantha), and four others in the lateral plane, in pairs on both sides of a deep sagittal constriction of the quadrangular lateral girdle. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. On each half wing of the transverse girdle five to six longitudinal rows of irregular, roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Medullary shell 0.06 long, 0.04 broad; cortical shell 0.18 long, 0.14 broad; gates 0.04 high, 0.08 broad.

Genus 284. Octopyle,^[323] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Pylonida with trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell, surrounded by two crossed, latticed, cortical girdles; one smaller (primary) transverse, and one larger (secondary) lateral girdle. Four gates between the two cortical girdles divided by a sagittal septum into eight gates.

The genus Octopyle comprises those Pylonida which are distinguished from the nearly allied Tetrapyle by the development of a sagittal septum, dividing the four gates of the latter into eight separate gates. The septum begins with the formation of two axial rods or columellæ, which afterwards become branched; the branches communicating one with another and with the middle parts of the lateral girdle (on the poles of the principal axis), there is formed a latticed septum in the sagittal plane, which separates more or less incompletely the right and left halves of the shell. The four gates of Tetrapyle become halved by this septum, and their number doubled.

Subgenus 1. Octopylissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cortical shell smooth or thorny, but without larger symmetrically disposed spines.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, smooth, without thorns. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Transverse girdle narrow, with two pores on the isthmus (or on the narrowest part of each quadrant). Sagittal septum as long as the elliptical medullary shell. Eight gates egg-shaped.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.035; length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12.

Cortical shell thorny, nearly square, of equal length and breadth. Lateral girdle quadrangular, with rounded edges, of equal length and breadth. Transverse girdle narrow, with three pores on the isthmus. Sagittal septum of the same length as the subspherical medullary shell. Eight gates nearly circular.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the medullary shell 0.04, of the cortical shell 0.14.

Cortical shell nearly spherical, thorny, of equal length and breadth. Lateral girdle broad, nearly circular. Transverse girdle broad, with four pores on the isthmus. Sagittal septum shorter than the subspherical medullary shell. Eight gates egg-shaped.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the medullary shell 0.05, of the cortical shell 0.13.

Cortical shell thorny, transverse-elliptical. Lateral girdle very broad, one and a third times as broad as long. Transverse girdle also very broad, with five pores on the isthmus. Sagittal septum shorter than the elliptical medullary shell. Eight gates small, roundish.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04; length of the cortical shell 0.11, breadth 0.15.

Subgenus 2. Octopylura, Haeckel.

Cortical shell smooth, nearly spindle-shaped, about twice as long as broad. Transverse girdle broad, with four large pores on the isthmus. Lateral girdle lanceolate. Sagittal septa about as long as the medullary shell, prolonged at both poles of the principal axis into two opposite, strong, angular spines. Eight gates obliquely quadrangular.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.05; length of the cortical shell 0.2, breadth 0.12.

Cortical shell nearly rhombic, smooth, one and a half times as long as broad, with four strong, conical, radial spines, two on the poles of the principal axis (as prolongations of the sagittal septa), two others on the poles of the transverse axis. Transverse girdle narrow, with two pores on the isthmus. Sagittal septa longer than the medullary shell. Eight gates triangular.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03; length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.12.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, with rough surface and four angular radial spines in the lateral plane, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonals. Lateral girdle nearly rectangular (each angle with one spine), one and a third times as long as broad. Sagittal septum longer than the hexagonal medullary shell. Eight gates egg-shaped.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.03; length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12.

Cortical shell quadrangular, with thorny surface and four latticed wing-like prolongations on the corners of the quadrangle, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonals, each wing supported by a strong radial spine. Lateral girdle quadrangular, one and a half times as long as broad. On the isthmus of the transverse girdle four pores. Sagittal septum longer than the hexagonal medullary shell. Eight gates triangular.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.04; length of the cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.16.

Cortical shell quadrangular, with thorny surface, and four conical spines in the lateral plane, on the points, where both cortical girdles are crossed. Lateral girdle very narrow, nearly square, with rounded corners, of equal length and breadth. On the isthmus of the narrow transverse girdle only one pore. Sagittal septum of the same length as the subspherical medullary shell. Eight gates irregular roundish or nearly circular.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the medullary shell 0.04, of the cortical shell 0.14.

Cortical shell nearly quadrangular, very thorny, with four bunches of stronger radial spines on the four corners. Lateral girdle broad, with rounded edges of the quadrangle, little longer than broad. On the isthmus of the broad transverse girdle four pores. Sagittal septum of the same length as the elliptical medullary shell, with many radial beams. Eight gates nearly square.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.035; length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.14.

Cortical shell nearly rectangular, thorny, with six strong radial spines in the lateral plane, two opposite on the poles of the principal axis (prolongations of the principal beam at the sagittal septum), four others on the truncate corners of the quadrangular lateral girdle, which is one and a half times as long as broad. On the isthmus of the broad transverse girdle three pores. Sagittal septum longer than the hexagonal medullary shell. Eight egg-shaped gates.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04; length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.12.

Habitat.—Northern Atlantic, surface; Canary Islands, Station 9, depth 3150 fathoms.

Cortical shell thorny, hexagonal, with six strong conical radial spines on the six corners of the lateral girdle, lying in the lateral plane, two opposite on the poles of the transverse axis, four others in pairs on both sides of the annular sagittal constriction, which is only twice as long as the elliptical medullary shell. Transverse girdle broad, with five pores on the isthmus. Eight gates roundish, smaller than the medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.045, breadth 0.035; length of the cortical shell 0.11, breadth 0.13.

Cortical shell elliptical, thorny, with eight long cylindrical radial spines, lying in two crossed diagonal planes, opposite in pairs, quite as in the nearly related Tetrapyle octacantha. It differs from this species by the perfect, latticed, vertical sagittal septum, which divides every gate into two triangular halves. Lateral girdle elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Transverse girdle on the isthmus with three pores. Septum longer than the elliptical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.045; length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12.

Cortical shell quadrangular, thorny, with eight strong diagonal spines, lying in two crossed planes, and arising from the proximal edges of the gates in the same way as in the foregoing species. It differs from this by four prominent latticed roofs, which arise from the distal edge of the gates and connect the diagonal spines of one gate. Octopyle obtecta bears therefore the same relation to Octopyle octostyle that Tetrapyle pluteus does to Tetrapyle octacantha.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.055, breadth 0.04; length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12.

Cortical shell thorny, nearly quadrangular, with ten stronger radial spines, two opposite on the poles of the principal axis (as prolongations of the axial beams), eight others opposite in pairs in two diagonal planes (as in the foregoing species). Lateral girdle nearly square, with slightly convex lateral faces, slightly concave principal faces. Transverse girdle broad, with four pores on the isthmus. Sagittal septum of the same length as the hexagonal medullary shell. Eight gates elliptical or irregular roundish.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.032; diameter of the cortical shell 0.15.

Genus 285. Pylonium,^[324] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Pylonida with trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell surrounded by three crossed latticed cortical girdles, one smaller (primary) transverse, one larger (secondary) lateral, and one (tertiary) sagittal girdle.

The genus Pylonium is the most highly developed among the Diplozonaria, with six complete latticed girdles, three on the medullary shell, three on the cortical shell, the latter corresponding to the former. In each of the two systems the transverse girdle is smaller than the lateral; the sagittal girdle may be smaller or larger than the lateral girdle. Pylonium repeats the typical form of Trizonium; but whilst in this latter the medullary centre of the shell is a simple spherical chamber, here in Pylonium it is a true trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Pylonissa, Haeckel.

Definition.—Cortical shell smooth or thorny, but without large, symmetrically disposed spines.

Cortical shell thorny, without radial spines; all its three girdles nearly of the same size, subcircular, very narrow, only with one to two rows of pores. Four gates subcircular.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.12, transverse axis 0.11; diameter of the subspherical medullary shell 0.05.

Cortical shell smooth, without symmetrical radial spines. Transverse girdle elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Lateral and sagittal girdles nearly circular. Four gates egg-shaped.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.16, transverse axis 0.15; diameter of the subspherical medullary shell 0.04.

Cortical shell thorny, without radial spines. All its three girdles elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, nearly twice as broad as high.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.17, transverse axis 0.13; length of the lentelliptical medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Pylonura, Haeckel.

Cortical shell thorny, with four strong horn-like curved spines in the lateral plane. All its three girdles elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four gates kidney-shaped, twice as broad as high. (This species is a further developmental stage of Tetrapyle quadricornis, with perfect sagittal girdle.)

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.16, transverse axis 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, surface; Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Rabbe, surface.

Cortical shell thorny, with eight long and thin cylindrical radial spines, lying in two crossed diagonal planes, opposite in pairs, and arising from the eight points where the transverse girdle is crossed by the lateral girdle. All three girdles elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad; four gates triangular. (This species is a further developmental stage of Tetrapyle octacantha, with perfect sagittal girdle.)

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.18, transverse axis 0.13; length of the medullary shell 0.03 to 0.04.

Cortical shell thorny, with eight short conical radial spines, lying in two crossed diagonal planes (as in the foregoing species). All three girdles nearly of the same size, subcircular, very narrow, only with one to two rows of pores. Four gates kidney-shaped.

Dimensions.—Principal axis 0.15, transverse axis 0.14; diameter of the quadrangular medullary shell 0.04.

Subfamily 3. Triplozonaria, Haeckel.

Definition.—Pylonida with three concentric systems of fenestrated girdles, lying in three concentric lentelliptical faces (every system with one to three girdles lying in one lentelliptical face).

Genus 286. Amphipylonium,^[325] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 463.

Definition.—Pylonida with trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell, surrounded by a double latticed cortical shell; inner cortical shell Pylonium-shaped, with three perfect crossed girdles; outer cortical shell only represented by a single (transverse) girdle.

The genus Amphipylonium opens the series of Triplozonaria, or of those Pylonida in which the shell is composed of three concentric systems of latticed girdles. The first (and innermost) system represents the complete trizonal medullary shell, which is probably a lentelliptical Larnacilla-shell. The first and intermediate system is formed of a complete trizonal cortical shell of the same form, but much larger (like Pylonium). The third (and outermost) system is represented by one to three latticed girdles, corresponding to the former and forming an outer or second cortical shell. In Amphipylonium (as the most simple form of the Triplozonaria) there is only developed the first (transverse) girdle of the third system. It repeats therefore the form of Amphipyle, the cortical shell of which is here double (Prodromus, 1881, p. 463).

Inner cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a half times as long as broad, with smooth surface and four semilunar gates. Transverse girdle of the outer cortical shell with two smooth semilunar wings, with convex, smooth lateral crests; each wing as broad as the transverse girdle of the inner cortical shell and twice as long as its lateral girdle.

Dimensions.—Length of the lentelliptical medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03; length of the inner cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.1; length of each lateral wing of the outer cortical shell 0.3, breadth 0.1.

Inner cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, with thorny surface and four kidney-shaped gates. Transverse girdle of the outer cortical shell very spiny, with two semilunar wings, with convex thorny lateral crests; each wing one and a half times as broad as the transverse girdle of the inner cortical shell, and one and a half times as long as its lateral girdle.

Dimensions.—Length of the lentelliptical medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.03; length of the inner cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12; length of each lateral wing of the outer cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.18.

Inner cortical shell hexagonal, one and a half times as long as broad, with smooth surface and four transverse elliptical gates. Transverse girdle of the outer cortical shell smooth, with rectilinear smooth lateral crests, which are prolonged at both ends into strong conical spines (therefore four spines in the lateral plane); each wing of the same breadth as the transverse girdle of the inner cortical shell, and twice as long as its lateral girdle.

Dimensions.—Length of the hexagonal medullary shell 0.03, breadth 0.02; length of the inner cortical shell 0.12, breadth 0.08; length of each lateral wing of the outer cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.08.

Inner cortical shell quadrangular, one and a third times as long as broad, with thorny surface and four kidney-shaped gates. Transverse girdle of the outer cortical shell thorny, constricted at the equator, with concave thorny lateral crests, and with eight strong radial spines, opposite in pairs and lying in two crossed diagonal planes; each wing narrower than the transverse girdle of the inner cortical shell and twice as long as its lateral girdle.

Dimensions.—Length of the subspherical medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.035; length of the inner cortical shell 0.14, breadth 0.11; length of each lateral wing of the outer cortical shell 0.26, breadth 0.09.

Genus 267. Tetrapylonium,^[326] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

The genus Tetrapylonium represents a further developmental stage of the foregoing Amphipylonium; whilst in this latter the outer cortical shell (or the third system of girdles) is formed only by a transverse girdle, here this is crossed by a lateral girdle. Tetrapylonium repeats therefore the typical form of Tetrapyle, but with doubled cortical shell (Prodromus, 1881, p. 464).

Outer cortical shell elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, with smooth surface and four elliptical gates. Inner cortical shell elliptical, with smooth surface and four elliptical gates which repeat the form of the four outer gates, but are of half the size. Transverse girdle broad, with five pores on the isthmus.

Dimensions.—Length (or principal axis) of the first shell (medullary shell) 0.04, breadth (or transverse axis) 0.03; length of the second (or inner cortical) shell 0.12, breadth 0.09; length of the third (or outer cortical) shell 0.18, breadth 0.14.

Outer cortical shell elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad, with thorny surface and four large kidney-shaped gates. Inner cortical shell of the same form, but one-third smaller, also with four kidney-shaped gates. Transverse girdle small, but with two pores on the isthmus.

Dimensions.—Length of the first (innermost) shell 0.03, breadth 0.02; length of the second (middle) shell 0.14, breadth 0.08; length of the third (outermost) shell 0.2, breadth 0.11.

Outer cortical shell nearly quadrangular, one and a third times as long as broad, with four rounded corners, from which arise in the lateral plane four three-sided pyramidal radial spines, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal axes. Surface thorny; four gates elliptical or nearly quadrangular. Inner cortical shell more elliptical, by one half smaller, with broader transverse girdle and four kidney-shaped gates. Medullary shell nearly spherical, of half the size.

Dimensions.—Length of the first shell 0.045, breadth 0.035; length of the second shell 0.1, breadth 0.07; length of the third shell 0.16, breadth 0.11.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, off Tristan da Cunha, Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms.

Outer cortical shell elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, with thorny surface, and eight long and thin radial spines arising from the corners of the four triangular gates, and lying {659}opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. Inner cortical shell of the same shape, but two-thirds smaller, also thorny. Transverse girdle broad, with four pores on the isthmus. (This species appears to be the common Tetrapyle octacantha, with doubled cortical shell.)

Dimensions.—Length of the first shell 0.04, breadth 0.03; length of the second shell 0.16, breadth 0.12; length of the third shell 0.24, breadth 0.18.

Outer cortical shell nearly quadrangular, one and a fourth times as long as broad, with very spiny surface. Between numerous smaller (simple or branched) thorns arise twelve larger radial spines, symmetrically distributed, eight wing-spines crossed in two diagonal planes (as in Tetrapylonium octacanthum) and four corner spines on the four rounded corners of the lateral plane (as in Tetrapylonium quadrangulare). Therefore this species combines the armature of both foregoing species. Four gates kidney-shaped. Inner cortical shell elliptical, smooth, three-fourths smaller.

Dimensions.—Length of the first shell 0.045, breadth 0.035; length of the second shell 0.18, breadth 0.15; length of the third shell 0.25, breadth 0.2.

Genus 288. Pylozonium,^[327] n. gen.

Definition.—Pylonida with trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell, surrounded by double latticed cortical shell; inner cortical shell as well as the outer Pylonium-shaped, each with three perfect crossed girdles (transverse, lateral, and sagittal).

The genus Pylozonium is the most highly developed form of the Pylonida, as all three systems of concentric girdles here become fully developed, each system with three perfect girdles. In this genus only among all the Pylonida we find nine complete latticed girdles, and in each of the three dimensive planes three concentric elliptical girdles. The first system forms the medullary shell, the second system the inner cortical shell, and the third system the outer cortical shell.

Outer cortical shell lentelliptical, thorny, one and a third times as long as broad, without radial spines, with four kidney-shaped gates. Inner cortical shell of the same shape, but one-third smaller, four times as large as the lentelliptical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03; length of the inner cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12; length of the outer cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.18.

Outer cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, with thorny surface and eight long and thin radial spines arising from the corners of the four elliptical gates, and lying opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. Inner cortical shell of the same shape but one-fourth smaller, about twice as large as the lentelliptical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the medullary shell 0.065, breadth 0.045; length of the inner cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.12; length of the outer cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.18.

Family XXVII. Tholonida, n. fam. (Pl. 10).

Definition.—Larcoidea with regular, completely latticed cortical shell, which is composed of two to six or more hemispherical or cap-shaped domes (vaulted chambers or cupolas). The domes lie opposite in pairs on the poles of the three dimensive axes, are separated by annular constrictions, and surround a simple or Larnacilla-shaped central chamber.

The family Tholonida represents a peculiar and very remarkable group of the Larcoidea, distinguished from the other groups of this suborder by the characteristic form of the shell, composed of a variable number of hemispherical domes or cupolas. The middle and original part of the shell is constantly formed of an elliptical or subspherical central chamber, which often, but not constantly, contains a small medullary shell. An even number (two, four, six, or more) of domes is attached to the poles of the three dimensive axes of the central chamber; according as only one, or two, or all three axes develop cupolas, we distinguish in this family three different subfamilies (the Amphitholida, Staurotholida, and Cubotholida). The Amphitholida (or Tholonida monaxonia) form cupolas only on the two poles of one single axis, and this axis corresponds to the minor (or transverse) axis of the central chamber, we find here therefore constantly at least two lateral cupolas (Pl. 10, figs. 1-7). The Staurotholida (or Tholonida diaxonia) form cupolas on the poles of two axes perpendicular one to another; these two axes are the major (principal) and the minor (transverse) axis of the central chamber, we find here therefore constantly at least four cupolas crossed in pairs (Pl. 10, figs. 8-11). The Cubotholida (or Tholonida triaxonia) form cupolas on the poles of all three dimensive axes (perpendicular one to another); corresponding to the principal, transverse, and sagittal axes of the lentelliptical central chamber; therefore we find here constantly at least six cupolas, attached in pairs on the six sides of the central chamber (Pl. 10, figs. 12-17).

The number of genera and species in the family Tholonida is rather large, but the number of individuals is much smaller than in most of the other Spumellaria, and {661}particularly than in the nearly allied Pylonida; the greater number of the species are very rare. Besides this they seem to be very variable and inclined to produce numerous abnormalities. Very often intermediate forms of transition are to be found between the Tholonida and other Larcoidea, particularly the Pylonida and Lithelida. In many species the thick-walled shell is very opaque, and offers great difficulties to the clear study; in the greater number the structure of the shell cannot be understood completely without rolling the shell to the different sides; and the distinction between the Staurotholida and Cubotholida is often very difficult.

The primordial chamber of the Tholonida, or the central chamber in which its growth begins, is either a simple lentelliptical shell (without enclosed medullary shell), like Cenolarcus, or it is a trizonal shell, like Larnacilla, and contains a small concentric medullary shell. But this important inner shell of the central chamber offers peculiar difficulties for study. In many cases (probably in the greater number) there is no doubt the same characteristic trizonal medullary shell, which we found in the Larnacida and Pylonida, and this is our principal argument, if we regard the Tholonida as Larcoidea, which are most nearly allied to both these families, and in which the fenestrated open cortical girdles of the Pylonida are replaced by fenestrated closed cupolas or domes; the characteristic "gates" or large fissures in the cortical shell of the former are therefore here perfectly closed by network. The Tholonida agree in this point with the Larnacida, but are distinguished from them by the prominent vaultings of the hemispherical cupolas or domes, which give them a peculiar appearance. Each pair of domes (opposite on both poles of one dimensive axis) corresponds to one single girdle of the Pylonida.

Regarding the absence or presence of a medullary shell in the central chamber, we may divide the Tholonida into two groups, Cenotholida (without medullary shell) and Coccotholida (with medullary shell). The absence of the medullary shell in many Tholonida may be either primary (original) or secondary (by reduction and loss of it). Probably in the larger proportion (if not always?) its absence is the consequence of reduction and loss, and in this case the Cenotholida must be derived phylogenetically from the Coccotholida, but possibly often (or always?) the contrary may also be the case. At present we cannot find certain arguments for one opinion or the other.

The connection between the medullary (internal) and the cortical (external) shell of the central chamber in the Coccotholida is effected by two lateral wings of a latticed transverse girdle; on both sides of the latter remain the four internal open "gates" of the Pylonida and Larnacida. Very often the limiting edges of these four gates are prolonged into eight external radial spines which lie opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes, and correspond to the eight portal-spines of Tetrapyle octacantha. Besides these, we often find four other beams opposite in pairs in the two crossed axes (principal and lateral). Very often also these radial beams (between medullary and {662}cortical shells) are prolonged on the outside into prominent free radial spines. But other spines may also arise from the surface. Very remarkable is the presence of twenty symmetrically disposed radial spines in some forms of Amphitholida (Amphitholus acanthometra and Amphitholonium acanthonium, &c.). It recalls the twenty radial spines of the Acanthonida, though the laws of distribution in the two similar cases are quite different.

The cortical shell of the Tholonida remains either simple, or it becomes doubled by formation of an outer veil or envelope. This outer cortical shell or "veil" may either repeat completely the typical form of the inner with its cupolas, or it may form an ellipsoidal envelope without dome-shaped partitions. Its network is either like that of the inner, or it is very delicate and irregular, spider-web like. The connection between the two cortical shells is effected by a variable number of radial beams, often prolonged on the outside into radial spines.

The growth of the Tholonida by apposition of new chambers is very characteristic, constantly pairs of chambers originating at both opposite poles of the three dimensive axes, firstly on the transverse axis, secondly on the principal axis, thirdly on the sagittal axis. It is possible that by repeated apposition of new chambers the Tholonida are transformed into Discoidea, but commonly the number of domes is restricted, two in the Amphitholida, four in the Staurotholida, six in the Coccotholida. If new chambers in an irregular manner or in a spiral order be opposed to those first formed pairs of chambers, the Tholonida may be transformed into Soreumida, Streblemida, or Lithelida. The phylogenetic connection between these families is probably very complex and very worthy of further research.

The network of the shell in the Tholonida is sometimes regular, with circular (often hexagonally framed) pores of equal size, sometimes irregular, with roundish pores of unequal size. Commonly the shell is thick and compact; in those genera in which the cortical shell is doubled, the inner is commonly compact, the outer a very delicate veil.

The central capsule of the Tholonida is originally always enclosed by the central chamber, and like this of lentelliptical form, a triaxial ellipsoid. With the apposition of cupolas the growing central capsule may form dome-shaped protuberances which enter into the former. So we may find in the Amphitholida a central capsule with three joints (separated by two annular parallel constrictions), in the Staurotholida a cross-shaped capsule (with four caps around the central lentellipsis), in the Cubotholida a clustered capsule with six caps, surrounding six sides of the cubical central mass. In the Coccotholida (with medullary shell in the central chamber) the latter encloses in the centre the nucleus of the cell. The calymma, or the jelly-veil between the central capsule and the enveloping shell, probably always exhibits annular constrictions, corresponding to those which separate the cupolas of the shell. All these anatomical peculiarities in the Tholonida require a further accurate study.

Synopsis of the Genera of Tholonida.

Subfamily 1. Amphitholida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Tholonida with monaxial growth; cupolas opposite on the poles of one axis. (Shell commonly three-chambered, with two domes on both sides of the central chamber.)

Genus 289. Tholartus,^[328] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with simple cortical shell (without external veil); with two hemispherical cupolas, opposite on the poles of one axis; central chamber between them simple (without medullary shell).

The genus Tholartus (Pl. 10, fig. 1) represents the most simple form of all Tholonida, a three-jointed simple cortical shell without medullary shell; two hemispherical cupolas or domes are attached on both lateral sides of a simple triaxial ellipsoidal central chamber, corresponding to the poles of its lateral or transverse axis. Tholartus may be regarded as the common ancestral form of all Tholonida, and may be derived either from the Pylonida Monozonium (by complete lattice-locking of the lateral wings) or from the Ellipsida Cenellipsis (by development of two lateral protuberances on the poles of the transverse axis). But it is also possible that the absence of the medullary shell is produced by reduction, and in this case Tholartus may be descended from Amphitholus.

Subgenus 1. Tholartella, Haeckel.

Central chamber one and a half times as high and as broad as both cupolas. Surface of the shell rough. Pores regular, circular, without hexagonal frames, three times as broad as the bars; about sixteen on the half meridian of the central chamber (or its vertical diameter).

Dimensions.—Length of the shell (major axis of the central chamber, vertical) 0.1, breadth of the shell (major axis of the whole three-chambered shell, horizontal) 0.13; pores 0.01, bars 0.003.

Central chamber of the same breadth, but of the double height of both cupolas. Surface of the shell rough. Pores regular, circular, with hexagonal frames, of the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten on the half meridian of the central chamber.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell (major axis of the central chamber, vertical) 0.12, breadth of the shell (major axis of the whole three-chambered shell, horizontal) 0.15; pores and bars 0.008.

Central chamber of the same breadth and height as both cupolas. Surface of the shell smooth. Pores irregular, roundish, once to three times as broad as the bars; ten to fifteen on the half meridian of the central chamber.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.11, breadth 0.14; pores 0.004 to 0.01, bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Tholartissa, Haeckel.

Central chamber of the same size as both cupolas. Surface of the shell thorny, everywhere covered with short conical radial spines, about as long as the cupolas. Pores regular or subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the half meridian.

Central chamber twice as large as both cupolas. Surface of the shell spiny, with eight to twelve regularly (?) distributed radial spines, radiating from the two constrictions between the three chambers. Spines needle-shaped, very thin and long. Pores subregular or irregular, roundish or circular, about three times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen on the half meridian.

Genus 290. Tholodes,^[329] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with double cortical shell (with external veil), with two hemispherical cupolas, opposite on the poles of one axis; central chamber between them simple (without medullary shell).

The genus Tholodes (Pl. 10, fig. 2) differs from Tholartus, its probable ancestral form, only in the duplication of the shell; the outer shell has exactly the same three-jointed form as the inner; both are connected by eight radial beams, lying in two diagonal planes and corresponding to the eight frontal spines of Tetrapyle octacantha. Possibly Tholodes may also be descended from Amphitholonium by loss of the medullary shell. I have observed only one single specimen of this genus.

Outer shell of the same form and structure as the inner shell. Central chamber larger than both cupolas. Surface a little rough, without radial spines. Distance of both shells equals the height of the outer cupolas. Pores of both shells regular, circular, three times as broad as the {666}bars; six to seven in the semicircle of one inner cupola, ten to twelve in the semicircle of one outer cupola. Both shells are connected by eight radial beams, crossed in two diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer shell 0.1, minor 0.065; major axis of the inner shell 0.05, minor 0.04; pores 0.006, bars 0.002.

Genus 291. Amphitholus,^[330] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with simple cortical shell (without external veil), with two hemispherical cupolas, opposite on the poles of one axis; central chamber (between them) Larnacilla-shaped, with medullary shell.

The genus Amphitholus is the most simple form of all Coccotholida (or all Tholonida provided with medullary shell). Its simple cortical shell exhibits, like Tholartus, two lateral hemispheric cupolas, attached on both sides of a lentelliptical central chamber (on the poles of its transverse axis). The central chamber has the form of a triaxial ellipsoid, and contains, like Larnacilla, a small medullary shell, connected with it by the wings of a latticed transverse girdle. Amphitholus may be derived either from Tholartus by secondary production of a cortical shell, or (more probably) from Larnacilla by apposition of two lateral dome-shaped protuberances. In the latter case it may be regarded as an Amphipyle, the lateral open wings of which are closed by lattice-work.

Subgenus 1. Amphitholissa, Haeckel.

Central chamber of the same height as both cupolas. Surface of the cortical shell rough. Pores regular, circular, with prominent hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.16, minor axis 0.1; pores 0.008, bars 0.004.

Central chamber one-fourth higher than both cupolas. Surface of the cortical shell smooth. Pores irregular, roundish, once to three times as broad as the bars. (Very similar to Tholartus tricolus, Pl. 10, fig. 1, but different by the medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor axis 0.12; pores 0.004 to 0.01, bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Amphitholura, Haeckel.

Central chamber about twice as high and broad as both cupolas. From the surface arise, symmetrically distributed, eight stout conical radial spines, lying in two diagonal planes, as prolongations of the eight wing-beams, which connect the Tetrapyle-shaped medullary shell with the two ring-like constrictions of the cortical shell. Pores of the latter regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor 0.12; pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Central chamber a little larger than both cupolas. From the surface arise twelve strong conical radial spines, four on the poles of the major and the minor axis of the shell, lying in the lateral plane; eight others lying in two diagonal planes, as prolongations of the eight wing-beams, which connect the Tetrapyle-shaped medullary shell with the two ring-like constrictions of the cortical shell. Pores of the latter irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor 0.11; pores 0.004 to 0.008, bars 0.002.

Central chamber about twice as broad and as high as both cupolas. On the surface quite symmetrically distributed twenty long and strong cylindrical radial spines; eight in the sagittal plane or in the meridian plane of the central chamber (four opposite in pairs in the principal and the sagittal axes, four others in the middle between the principal and the sagittal spines); four in the horizontal transverse plane, on both sides of the poles of the major or lateral axis; and eight in diagonal planes (corresponding to the eight wing-spines of Tetrapyle octacantha). In the centre of the central chamber is a distinct trizonal medullary shell like that of Tetrapyle, with two vertical columella beams. Pores of the cortical shell subregular, circular, with elevated hexagonal frames, about four times as broad as the bars; five to seven in the semicircle of one cupola. (This remarkable species differs from Tholartus vicenus in the possession of a medullary shell, from Amphitholonium acanthometra by the simple cortical shell. Compare these species).

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.14 to 0.16, minor axis 0.10 to 0.12; pores 0.015, bars 0.004; major axis of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.05, minor (horizontal) axis 0.02 to 0.03; length of the twenty radial spines 0.18 to 0.24, basal breadth 0.01.

Central chamber twice as broad, but of the same height, as the flat vaulted cupolas. Surface armed with thirty to forty very large three-sided prismatic spines, longer than the major axis of the shell. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to five times as broad as the bars; eight to nine on the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor axis 0.1; pores 0.006 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the spines 0.2 to 0.25, breadth 0.01.

Central chamber of the same breadth and height as both cupolas. Surface armed with very numerous (sixty to eighty) strong conical spines, about as long as the minor axis of the shell. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; sixteen to eighteen in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.13, minor 0.08; pores 0.006, bars 0.003; length of the radial spines 0.09, breadth 0.006.

Central chamber ellipsoidal, nearly twice as broad, but of the same height, as both cupolas. Whole surface thorny; the largest radial thorns about as long as the medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars. On the base of each cupola a circle of ten to twelve larger square pores, separated by radial beams, which are prolonged into stouter free spines. This remarkable formation of the cupolas, very rare in this family, recalls the characteristic formation of the distal chambers of the Panartida and Zygartida (e.g., Pl. 40, figs. 4, 8, &c.), where it is very common.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor 0.1; pores 0.005 to 0.012, bars 0.003; large square pores 0.02; axes of the medullary shell 0.03 and 0.02.

Genus 292. Amphitholonium,^[331] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with double cortical shell (with external veil), with two hemispherical cupolas, opposite on the poles of one axis; central chamber (between them) Larnacilla-shaped, with medullary shell.

The genus Amphitholonium differs from the nearly allied Amphitholus (probably its ancestral form) only in the duplication of the cortical shell; the outer has the {669}same three-jointed form as the inner, and is connected with it by a variable number of radial beams. From the similar Tholodes it differs in the possession of a medullary shell.

Outer cortical shell smooth, of the same three-jointed form as the inner, at an equal distance from it throughout the whole circumference; central chamber higher-vaulted than both cupolas. Network of the outer shell delicate, with subregular, circular pores. Pores of the thick-walled inner shell subregular, circular, with hexagonal frames, three times as broad as the bars; eight to ten in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer cortical shell 0.2, minor axis 0.15; major axis of the inner cortical shell 0.16, minor axis 0.11; pores 0.01, bars 0.0035.

Outer cortical shell lentelliptical, smooth, not articulated, at a varying distance from the three-jointed inner shell; central chamber of the latter twice as high as both hemispherical cupolas. Network of the outer shell very thin, cob-web like. Pores of the inner shell subregular, roundish, twice as broad as the bars; six to seven in the semicircle of one cupola. Eight thin and long, bristle-shaped, radial spines, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer cortical shell 0.16, minor 0.12; major axis of the inner cortical shell 0.12, minor 0.09; pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Outer cortical shell of the same three-jointed form as the inner, at a uniform distance from it; central chamber higher vaulted than both cupolas. Network of the outer shell irregular, delicate, of the inner regular, strong, with circular, hexagonally framed pores, three times as broad as the bars; eight to nine in the semicircle of one cupola. On the surface, quite symmetrically disposed, twenty long and strong, cylindrical, radial spines; eight in the sagittal plane, four in the transverse plane; eight in two diagonal planes between the former and the latter. The remarkable geometric disposition of the twenty spines is in this species quite the same as in Amphitholus acanthometra. It differs from this nearly allied species in the double cortical shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer cortical shell 0.18, minor 0.14; major axis of the inner cortical shell 0.14, minor 0.1; pores 0.012, bars 0.004.

Subfamily 2. Staurotholida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Tholonida with diaxial growth; cupolas crossed in pairs, opposite on the poles of two axes, perpendicular one to another. (Shell commonly five-chambered, with four domes, cross-wise surrounding the central chamber.)

Genus 293. Tholostaurus,^[332] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with simple cortical shell (without external veil), composed of four hemispherical cupolas in cross-form, opposite in pairs on the poles of two axes perpendicular one to another; central chamber simple (without medullary shell).

The genus Tholostaurus is the most simple form of the Staurotholida, or the Tholonida with four crossed hemispherical cupolas, lying on the poles of two axes perpendicular one to another. The central chamber communicates by four wide openings with the four domes, and contains no medullary shell. Tholostaurus may originate either from Tholartus by apposition of two opposite cupolas between the first pair, or from Staurotholus by loss of the medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Tholostaurantha, Haeckel.

All four cupolas nearly of the same size and form, subregular. Surface smooth, without radial spines. Pores subregular, circular, four times as broad as the bars; eight to ten pores in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Two opposite cupolas larger than the two others. Surface rough, without radial spines. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.16, minor axis 0.12; pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Tholostauroma, Haeckel.

All four cupolas nearly of the same size and form, subregular. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; twelve to fourteen in the semicircle of one cupola. Four long and stout conical radial spines, two vertical on the poles of the principal axis, two horizontal on the poles of the transverse axis.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor 0.13; pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Two opposite cupolas larger than the two others. Pores subregular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve in the semicircle of one cupola. Eight long and thin, needle-shaped, radial spines, in pairs crossed in two diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.16, minor 0.12; pores 0.01, bars 0.003.

Two opposite cupolas larger than the two others. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; six to eight in the semicircle of one cupola. Twelve thin and long radial spines, four on the poles of the two crossed axes (principal and lateral), eight crossed in two diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.14, minor 0.11; pores 0.006 to 0.01, bars 0.003.

Two opposite cupolas larger than the two others. Pores circular, hexagonally framed, of the same breadth as the bars; ten to twelve in the semicircle of one cupola. Numerous (twenty to thirty or more) thin, bristle-like, radial spines, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor axis 0.12; pores and bars 0.007.

Genus 294. Tholoma,^[333] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with double cortical shell (with external veil), composed of four hemispherical cupolas in cross-form, opposite in pairs on the poles of two axes perpendicular one to another; central chamber simple (without medullary shell).

The genus Tholoma (Pl. 10, figs. 10, 13) differs from the preceding Tholostaurus (its probable ancestral form) only in the duplication of the shell. The outer (secondary) shell has the same cross-form as the inner (primary) shell. In the two observed species the growth seems to be different, in the first species all four cupolas of each cross being of the same size, form, and age; in the second two opposite cupolas, larger and apparently older than the other two. Tholoma is possibly the offspring of Staurotholonium, from which it may have been produced by loss of the medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Tholomantha, Haeckel.

All four chambers in each cortical shell nearly equal, subregular. Surface smooth, without radial spines. Structure of the network in both shells similar. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight in the basal semicircle of one inner, ten to twelve in the semicircle of one outer cupola.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14, of the inner 0.09; pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Tholomura, Haeckel.

Two opposite chambers in each cortical shell larger than the two others; the larger chambers of the inner shell corresponding to the smaller chambers of the outer shell. Network in both shells of the same structure, regular, with circular, hexagonally framed pores of the same breadth as the bars; eight to ten in the semicircle of an inner, fourteen to sixteen in the semicircle of an outer cupola. Numerous (twenty to thirty or more) thin, cylindrical, bristle-shaped, long radial spines, symmetrically disposed.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer shell 0.26, minor axis 0.2; major axis of the inner shell 0.16, minor axis 0.13; pores and bars 0.006.

Genus 295. Staurotholus,^[335] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with simple cortical shell (without external veil), composed of four hemispherical cupolas in cross-form, opposite in pairs on the poles of {673}two axes perpendicular one to another; central chamber Larnacilla-shaped (with enclosed medullary shell).

The genus Staurotholus differs from Tholostaurus in the possession of a medullary shell in the central chamber, and may be derived from this genus by its production. But it may also be derived from Amphitholus by apposition of two secondary opposite cupolas between the two primary cupolas. The symmetrical position of an increasing number of radial spines in the different species is remarkable (resembling Tholostaurus as well as Amphitholus).

Subgenus 1. Staurotholissa, Haeckel.

Surface of the cortical shell smooth. All four cupolas nearly of the same size and form; therefore principal and lateral axes equal. Pores regular, circular, with hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten on the basal semicircle of one cupola. Medullary shell square.

Surface of the cortical shell rough. The two principal cupolas somewhat larger than the two lateral cupolas; therefore the longitudinal axis longer than the transverse. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen in the semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.16, minor 0.13; pores 0.005 to 0.009, bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Staurotholura, Haeckel.

The two principal cupolas smaller than the two lateral cupolas. Pores subregular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; six to eight in the semicircle of one cupola. Medullary shell elliptical. On the surface four long cylindrical radial spines; two in the principal and two in the lateral axis.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.15, minor 0.12; pores 0.012, bars 0.004.

The two lateral cupolas larger than the two principal cupolas. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve in the semicircle of one cupola. Medullary shell hexagonal, connected with each ring-like constriction by eight strong cylindrical radial spines (longer than the whole shell), lying in two crossed meridian planes, and corresponding to the eight diagonal wing-spines of Tetrapyle octacantha.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.12, minor 0.1; pores 0.008, bars 0.004.

The two principal cupolas twice as broad and high as the two lateral cupolas. Pores subregular, circular, four times as broad as the bars; six to eight in the semicircle of one cupola. Ten long and thin radial spines with thickened conical bases, about as long as the major axis of the shell, by inner prolongations connected with the lentelliptical medullary shell; two polar spines in the principal axis, eight wing-spines in two crossed diagonal planes.

The two lateral cupolas larger than the two principal cupolas. Pores subregular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; five to seven in the semicircle of one cupola. Twelve strong cylindrical radial spines, four on the poles of the two larger axes (two principal and two lateral), eight wing-spines in two crossed diagonal planes. Medullary shell hexagonal.

Dimensions.—Major (lateral) axis 0.11, minor (principal) 0.09; pores 0.009, bars 0.003.

The two principal cupolas larger than the two lateral cupolas. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve in the semicircle of one cupola. On the surface numerous thin bristle-shaped spines (twenty to thirty or more).

Genus 296. Staurotholonium,^[336] n. gen.

The genus Staurotholonium differs from the nearly allied Staurotholus (its probable ancestral form) only in the duplication of the cortical shell. The outer shell commonly repeats the cross-form of the inner, with four corresponding cupolas; but sometimes the four cupolas of the outer shell alternate in size and form with those of the inner, or the outer shell forms a simple lenticular envelope around the inner. From the similar Tholoma, Staurotholonium differs in the possession of a medullary shell in the central chamber.

Subgenus 1. Staurotholodes, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the outer cortical shell smooth or rough, without radial spines.

Outer cortical shell smooth, of the same regular crucial form as the inner, equidistant from it everywhere. Form and structure of both cortical shells nearly the same, but the outer about twice as large as the inner; both connected only by eight diagonal beams. All four cupolas of each cortical shell regular, of the same size. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight in the basal semicircle of each cupola. Medullary shell square. (Similar to Staurotholus quadratus, but differs by the double cortical shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer cortical shell 0.16, of the inner 0.08, of the medullary shell 0.04; pores of the inner cortical shell 0.006, bars 0.003.

Outer cortical shell rough, twice as large as the inner, of the same form and structure, at an equal distance from it. In both shells the principal cupolas are larger than the lateral. Pores irregular, roundish, in the outer shell four times, in the inner twice as large as the bars; eight to ten in the basal semicircle of one cupola. (Similar to Staurotholus cruciatus, but differs mainly in the double cortical shell.) Medullary shell lentelliptical.

Dimensions.—Major (longitudinal) axis of the outer cortical shell 0.016, of the inner 0.08; minor (transverse) axis of the former 0.14, of the latter 0.07; medullary shell 0.03 to 0.04.

Outer cortical shell smooth, very different from the inner; in the outer the two principal cupolas are larger than the two lateral; in the inner inversely smaller. Pores subregular, circular, in the outer shell four times, in the inner shell twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve pores in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis (length) of the outer cortical shell 0.15, minor (breadth) 0.13; pores 0.012, bars 0.003; major axis (length) of the inner cortical shell 0.11, minor axis (breadth) 0.09; pores 0.006, bars 0.003.

Outer cortical shell smooth, lenticular, with circular circumference, with very delicate irregular network and small roundish pores. Its distance from the inner much greater in the four diagonal points than in the four polar points. Inner cortical shell regular, cross-like, with four cupolas of similar size and form. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten in the basal semicircle of one cupola. Medullary shell lenticular.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer cortical shell 0.16, of the inner 0.12; pores of the inner 0.008, bars 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Staurotholoma, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the outer cortical shell with radial spines or thorns.

Outer cortical shell of the same form and structure as the inner, but twice as large, both principal domes somewhat larger than both lateral. Pores subregular, circular, of the same breadth as the bars; five to six in the semicircle of one inner, eight to ten of one outer cupola. Eight thin and long bristle-like spines, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer cortical shell 0.15, minor 0.12; major axis of the inner cortical shell 0.07, minor 0.06; pores and bars 0.005.

Outer cortical shell of the same form as the inner, both little distant; network of the outer irregular and delicate. Pores of the inner regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; seven to nine in the basal semicircle of one cupola. Both lateral domes larger than the principal. Eight long and thin, cylindrical radial spines opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer cortical shell 0.2, minor 0.18; major axis of the inner cortical shell 0.16, minor 0.14; pores 0.008, bars 0.004.

Subfamily 3. Cubotholida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Tholonida with triaxial growth; cupolas lying in pairs on the six sides of a cubical central chamber, opposite at the poles of three axes perpendicular one to another. (Shell commonly seven-chambered, with six domes surrounding the central chamber.)

Genus 297. Tholocubus,^[337] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with simple cortical shell (without external veil), composed of six hemispherical cupolas, opposite in pairs on the poles of three axes perpendicular one to another, covering six sides of the simple cuboidal central chamber (without medullary shell).

The genus Tholocubus is the most simple form of the Cubotholida, or of the Tholonida with domes situated in three axes perpendicular one to another; six hemispherical cupolas lying on the six sides of a cuboidal central chamber; this latter contains no medullary shell. Tholocubus may be derived phylogenetically either from Tholostaurus by apposition of two opposite domes on the flat sides of the cross-shell, or from Cubotholus by loss of the medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Tholocubulus, Haeckel.

Surface of the shell smooth, without radial spines. Pores regular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; eight to twelve pores on the semicircle of one cupola. Principal cupolas smaller than the lateral, larger than the sagittal cupolas.

Surface of the shell rough, without radial spines. Pores irregular, roundish, once to three times as broad as the bars; twelve to sixteen pores in the semicircle of one cupola. All six cupolas nearly of the same size.

Subgenus 2. Tholocubitus, Haeckel.

Surface of the shell with numerous (eight to sixteen) thin and long, bristle-shaped radial spines (the greater part broken off in the figured specimen); pores subregular, circular, three to four times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve in the semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.16, minor axis 0.14; pores 0.01, bars 0.0027.

Genus 298. Tholonium,^[338] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with double cortical shell (with external veil), composed of six hemispherical cupolas, opposite in pairs on the poles of three axes perpendicular one to another, covering six sides of the simple cuboidal central chamber (without medullary shell).

The genus Tholonium (Pl. 10, fig. 17) differs from the preceding Tholocubus only in the duplication of the cortical shell. The outer (secondary) shell forms either a simple (spheroidal or ellipsoidal) thin veil around the inner (primary) shell, or both shells are of the same form, with six corresponding cupolas. Possibly Tholonium is the offspring of Cubotholonium, having originated by loss of the medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Tholonetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the shell smooth or rough, without radial spines or thorns.

Outer shell with six hemispherical dome-shaped protuberances, corresponding in those of the inner shell. Both shells connected by numerous radial beams. Surface of the outer shell smooth; its network nearly of the same shape as that of the inner, with subregular, circular pores, twice as broad as the bars; ten to fifteen pores on the semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the outer shell 0.14, of the inner 0.12; pores of the latter 0.006, bars 0.003.

Outer shell ellipsoidal, without dome-shaped protuberances, with smooth surface, without radial spines; network delicate, with subregular, circular pores. Inner shell with regular, circular, hexagonally framed pores, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve pores on the semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer shell 0.16, minor axis 0.14; major axis of the inner shell 0.14, minor axis 0.12; pores 0.008, bars 0.004.

Outer shell spherical, without dome-shaped protuberances, with smooth surface, without radial spines; network very delicate, with very small subregular, circular pores. Inner shell with regular, circular pores of the same breadth as the bars; fourteen to sixteen on the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spherical outer shell 0.15, inner shell 0.12; pores and bars of the inner shell 0.005.

Subgenus 2. Tholonilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the outer shell covered with radial spines or thorns.

Outer shell ellipsoidal, without dome-shaped protuberances, covered with numerous (thirty to fifty) thin and long, bristle-shaped radial spines; network very delicate, irregular, with roundish pores. Inner shell with six marked hemispherical domes of somewhat different sizes; pores regular, circular, with prominent hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; ten to twelve on the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer shell 0.15, minor axis 0.14; major axis of the inner shell 0.13, minor axis 0.12; pores 0.008, bars 0.004.

Outer shell very thin walled, spherical, without dome-shaped protuberances, with smooth surface, excepting eight large radial spines, rising from the eight corners of the inner cubical central chamber. Pores of the outer shell very small, subcircular. Inner shell very thick walled, with six marked hemispherical domes; pores subregular, circular, with prominent hexagonal frames, twice as broad as the bars; six to eight on the semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spherical outer shell 0.15, inner shell 0.11; pores of the inner 0.01, bars 0.005.

Genus 299. Cubotholus,^[339] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with simple cortical shell (without external veil), composed of six hemispherical cupolas, opposite in pairs on the poles of three axes perpendicular one to another, covering six sides of the cuboidal Larnacilla-shaped central chamber (with medullary shell).

The genus Cubotholus differs from Tholocubus in the possession of a medullary shell in the central chamber, and may be derived from this genus by its production; but it may also be derived from Staurotholus by apposition of two opposite domes on the flat sides of the cross-shell. Sometimes all six domes are of the same size and form, but commonly different in pairs.

Subgenus 1. Cubotholissa, Haeckel.

On the six sides of the cubical central chamber six hemispherical cupolas of the same size and form. Surface smooth. Pores regular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; eight in the basal semicircle of each cupola. Medullary shell apparently spherical (?), connected with the eight corners of the central chamber by eight radial beams, regularly disposed. (This species is remarkable for the perfect symmetry of the shell, the six sides of which appear to be quite similar. It differs from the similar Tholocubus regularis in the possession of a medullary shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell (equal in all three dimensive axes) 0.15; pores 0.01, bars 0.005; diameter of the medullary shell 0.04.

Surface of the shell smooth. Both principal cupolas (on the poles of the longitudinal axis) larger than the four other cupolas, which have the same size and lie cross-wise in the equatorial plane. (Therefore two of the three fundamental axes equal, the third larger.) Pores subregular, circular, three times as broad as the bars; ten to twelve in the semicircle of each cupola-basis.

Surface of the shell smooth. Both principal cupolas (on the poles of the longitudinal axis) larger than the two lateral (on the poles of the transverse axis), and these larger than the two sagittal cupolas (on the poles of the sagittal axis). Therefore all three fundamental axes unequal. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars; eight to twelve in the basal semicircle of each cupola. Medullary shell lentelliptical.

Dimensions.—Major (principal) axis 0.16, middle (lateral) axis 0.14, minor (sagittal) axis 0.12; pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Cubotholura, Haeckel.

All six cupolas in pairs of different sizes. Both principal domes larger than the lateral domes, and these larger than the sagittal domes. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; eight to ten in the semicircle of each cupola. From the surface arise (at the intersecting points of every three cupolas) eight strong conical radial spines, about as long as the shell-axis; they lie in two diagonal planes, and are the external free prolongations of eight inner beams (homologous with the eight wing-spines of Tetrapyle octacantha), which connect the lentelliptical medullary shell with the eight corners of the cuboidal central chamber.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the cortical shell 0.15, middle 0.13, minor 0.11; pores 0.008, bars 0.004; diameters of the medullary shell corresponding to 0.05, 0.04, 0.03.

Genus 300. Cubotholonium,^[340] n. gen.

Definition.—Tholonida with double (or sometimes triple) cortical shell (with external veil), composed of six hemispherical cupolas, opposite in pairs on the poles of three axes perpendicular one to another, covering six sides of the cuboidal Larnacilla-shaped central chamber (with medullary shell).

The genus Cubotholonium differs from the nearly allied Cubotholus (its probable ancestral form) only in duplication of the cortical shell. I have observed only two species of this rare form, both rather different. In the first species the outer cortical shell forms a simple spherical thin veil around the inner, the six cupolas of which are nearly of the same form and size. In the second species each of the domes of the {682}inner cortical shell is protected by an outer larger cupola, and besides this the whole shell is enveloped by a thin ellipsoidal veil (Pl. 10, fig. 15). Therefore this species may be the representative of a peculiar genus, the most highly developed of all Tholonida—Tholothauma.

Outer cortical shell (or veil) spherical, with smooth surface; network very delicate, with very thin bars and very small irregular, roundish pores. Inner cortical shell simple, composed of six hemispherical cupolas, surrounding the six sides of the cubical central chamber, which encloses a spherical medullary shell (one-third as large as itself). Network of the inner cortical shell regular, with circular pores of the same breadth as the bars, twelve to fourteen in the basal semicircle of one cupola.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spherical outer shell 0.2, of the inner cortical shell 0.15; pores and bars of the latter 0.006.

Tholothauma ellipsoides, Haeckel, 1883, MS.

Outer cortical shell (or veil) ellipsoidal, with very thin irregular network and thorny surface. Inner cortical shell double, with six double, flatly vaulted cupolas, surrounding the six sides of the Larnacilla-shaped central chamber; the double domes of each shell are in opposite pairs somewhat larger than the alternating pairs. Pores subregular, circular, about the same breadth as the bars; eight to twelve in the basal semicircle of one cupola. Central chamber with ellipsoidal medullary shell. Radial spines short, very numerous.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the outer cortical shell 0.28, minor 0.24; major axis of the inner cortical shell 0.16, minor axis 0.14; pores and bars 0.006; medullary shell 0.03.

Family XXVIII. Zonarida, n. fam. (Pl. 50, figs. 9-12).

Definition.—Larcoidea with regular, completely latticed cortical shell, distinguished by two to four or more annular constrictions, which lie (all or partly) in the dimensive planes (sagittal, transverse, or lateral), and by which four to eight or more vaulted cupolas or dome-like chambers become separated. In the centre of this chambered cortical shell lies constantly a trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell.

The family Zonarida comprises a small number of peculiar Larcoidea, resembling the Tholonida in the composition of the polythalamous cortical shell by a number of cupolas or dome-shaped protuberances. But the disposition and origin of these latter {683}are quite different. Whilst in the Tholonida the axes of the domes are dimensive axes, and these are separated by annular constrictions lying in diagonal planes, in the Zonarida we find the contrary; the axes of the domes are here diagonal axes, and these are separated by annular constrictions lying in dimensive planes. However, this definition agrees absolutely only in the four-chambered Zonarium and in the eight-chambered Zonidium, whilst in the six chambered Zoniscus only four domes are disposed according to this law, two others, however, in the same manner as in the Tholonida. Therefore this genus is intermediate between both families.

The Cortical Shell of the Zonarida is in all cases completely latticed and of regular lentelliptical fundamental form, as in the nearly allied Larnacida and Tholonida. The three dimensive axes are constantly of different sizes, each with two equal poles; commonly (as in the human body) the principal or longitudinal axis is the longest, the sagittal (or dorso-ventral) axis the shortest; the transverse (or lateral) axis being intermediate between them. Of the three dimensive planes the lateral plane is the largest (determined by the principal and transverse axes); the smallest is the equatorial plane (crossed by the transverse and sagittal axes); the sagittal plane (determined by the sagittal and principal axes) being intermediate between them.

The annular constrictions of the cortical shell which produce the dome-shaped protuberances are different in number in the three known genera—two, three, or four. To each constriction often (but not always) corresponds an internal latticed septum, which connects the cortical with the medullary shell. The number of the cupolas is always double the number of the annular constrictions by which they are separated, therefore four, six, or eight.

In all known Zonarida the sagittal septum is quite constant, but derived from the original axial rod, which lies in the principal axis. By ramification of this axial beam and reticular connection with the sagittal girdle arises the sagittal septum, which we found first in Octopyle, halving the four gates of Tetrapyle. Whilst this sagittal septum (between right and left halves of the body) is common to all three known genera of this family, the number and shape of the other annular constrictions are different. In Zonarium (Pl. 50, fig. 9) we find only one transverse constriction (in the equatorial plane), in Zoniscus (figs. 10, 11) two parallel transverse constrictions (parallel to the equatorial plane, on both sides of it). Zonidium (fig. 12) is a combination of both foregoing genera; it has three parallel transverse constrictions (one in the equatorial plane, and one on each side of it).

The Latticed Domes (cupolas or chambers) of the cortical shell exhibit correspondingly a different number and disposition in the three known genera. In Zonarium are found only four crossed chambers, separated by the sagittal and transverse septa; the axes of the four crossed domes are diagonal axes, whilst in the similar Staurotholus they are dimensive axes (principal and transverse axes). In Zonidium we find eight domes, each cupola of Zonarium being halved by a diagonal septum. Zoniscus is intermediate {684}between the two foregoing genera, and has six cupolas, three on each side of the sagittal septum.

The inner communication of the cupolas or chambers is more or less free, the lattice-work of the separating septa between them commonly remaining more or less imperfect, or represented only by some isolated beams or meshes. The outer network of the cupolas is commonly irregular (as in the majority of Larcoidea), but sometimes distinguished by a small number of regularly disposed larger apertures (similar to the "gates" of the Pylonida). From the surface radial spines often arise in characteristic number and symmetrical disposition, commonly as prolongations of the septal axes or of the constricted edges.

The Medullary Shell in all Zonarida is a true trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped lattice-shell (compare above, p. 600); its perimeter (or the first lateral girdle) is sometimes more elliptical, at other times more hexagonal; the hexagon is amphithect; both its lateral sides are often concave and commonly longer than the four other sides.

The Central Capsule in all Zonarida is in a strict geometrical sense a true lentellipsis (compare above, p. 599); its principal axis is commonly one and a third to one and a half times as great as the transverse axis, and twice to three times as great as the sagittal axis. The lentelliptical central capsule encloses the trizonal medullary shell, whilst it is externally enveloped by the chambered cortical shell.

Synopsis of the Genera of Zonarida.

Genus 301. Zonarium,^[341] n. gen.

Definition.—Zonarida with four dome-shaped chambers of the cortical shell, separated by two annular constrictions (one sagittal and one transverse).

The genus Zonarium is the most simple form of the Zonarida, and differs from the nearly allied Larnacalpis by two ring-like constrictions, which are crossed at right angles, one in the sagittal (or median) plane, and one in the transverse (or equatorial) plane. By these two annular constrictions four egg-shaped or kidney-shaped chambers become imperfectly separated, which correspond to the quadrants of the lateral plane. The first cause of the marked constrictions may be the formation of the latticed sagittal septum, which is found first in Octopyle, as halving the four gates of {685}Tetrapyle. Between this septum and the constricted narrow transverse girdle the cortical shell grows out in the form of four vaulted cupolas; every two opposite domes are congruent, two neighbouring are symmetrically equal.

Cortical shell quadrangular, one and a half times as long as broad, with four rounded corners. Surface thorny, with numerous short radial spines. Sagittal constriction twice as long as the hexagonal medullary shell. Four cupolas kidney-shaped.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.11; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell quadrangular, nearly rectangular, about twice as long as broad, with four corners, from which arise four strong, three-sided pyramidal, radial spines (crossed in two diagonals of the lateral plane). Surface thorny, only smooth in the transverse constriction. Sagittal constriction three times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Four cupolas elliptical or nearly quadrangular.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.22, breadth 0.1; length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.05.

Cortical shell octangular, one and a fourth times as long as broad, with eight strong conical spines on the eight corners; these are separated by four deep constrictions on the poles of the principal and transverse axes, and by four truncated planes on the poles of the crossed diagonal axes between the former. Sagittal constriction twice as long as the hexagonal medullary shell. Four cupolas kidney-shaped or nearly pentagonal.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell quadrangular, with four rounded corners. Surface thorny, with sixteen stronger radial spines; eight of these lie in the lateral plane, in the same symmetrical disposition as in the foregoing species; eight others lie on both sides of the lateral plane, opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes, in the same symmetrical disposition as in Tetrapyle octacantha. Sagittal {686}constriction three times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Four cupolas obliquely elliptical.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Genus 302. Zoniscus,^[342] n. gen.

Definition.—Zonarida with six dome-shaped chambers of the cortical shell, separated by three annular constrictions (one sagittal and two transverse, parallel to the equatorial plane).

The genus Zoniscus differs from Zonarium as well as from Zonidium by the development of the transverse girdle, which is not constricted, but on the contrary prominently vaulted in the equatorial plane. Therefore both wings of the transverse girdle form here two opposite lateral or "equatorial cupolas," as in Amphitholus. These are separated from four other domes (the "corner cupolas") by two transverse annular constrictions, which correspond to the free edges of the original transverse girdle. The corner domes of each pair are separated from each other by the sagittal septum.

Cortical shell nearly rectangular, with rounded corners, nearly one and a half times as long as broad. Surface thorny, without larger radial spines. Sagittal constriction scarcely half as long as the hexagonal medullary shell. Both equatorial cupolas (or wings of the transverse girdle) scarcely half as large as the four corner cupolas.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.11; length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.045.

Cortical shell nearly elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Surface nearly smooth, without radial spines. Sagittal constriction three times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Both equatorial cupolas about as large as the four corner cupolas.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.12, breadth 0.09; length of the medullary shell 0.035, breadth 0.025.

Cortical shell nearly quadrangular, one and a half times as long as broad, with four prominent corners, from which arise in the lateral plane four strong, three-sided pyramidal radial spines (opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal axes). Surface thorny, with exception of the concave lateral sides. Sagittal constriction two and a half times as long as the hexagonal medullary shell. Both equatorial cupolas scarcely half as large as the four corner cupolas.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell nearly four-sided, prismatic, one and a third times as long as broad, with spiny surface. Eight longer thin radial spines opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes (as in Tetrapyle octacantha). Sagittal constriction two and a half times as long as the hexagonal medullary shell. Both equatorial cupolas somewhat larger than the four corner cupolas.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.055, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell nearly rectangular, with four rounded corners and deep sagittal constriction, one and a fourth times as long as broad with thorny surface. Twelve longer edged radial spines; eight opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes (as in the foregoing species), four others in the lateral plane, opposite in pairs on both sides of the sagittal constriction, which is scarcely twice as long as the hexagonal, in the equatorial plane constricted medullary shell. Both equatorial cupolas nearly of the same size as the four corner cupolas.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.16, breadth 0.13; length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.04.

Genus 303. Zonidium,^[343] n. gen.

Definition.—Zonarida with eight dome-shaped chambers of the cortical shell, separated by four annular constrictions (one sagittal, one transverse, and two others parallel to the latter).

The genus Zonidium must be regarded as a Zonarium, in which the four cupolas (in the quadrants of the lateral plane) are halved by diagonal beams or latticed septa, {688}lying opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes. Therefore the number of the septa (four) and the domes (eight) is here doubled. Among the eight cupolas we distinguish four median (on both sides of the sagittal plane) and four lateral (on both sides of the equatorial plane); both groups are of different size and form. Probably Zonidium is derived from Zonarium by lattice-connection between the eight diagonal wing-spines, which in both species of this genus are present, the same as in Tetrapyle octacantha.

Cortical shell nearly quadrangular, with rounded corners and thorny surface. Eight long and thin radial spines on both sides of the lateral plane opposite in pairs and lying in two crossed diagonal planes (as in Tetrapyle octacantha). Sagittal constriction three times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Four medial cupolas (on both sides of the sagittal plane) somewhat larger than the four lateral cupolas (on both sides of the equatorial plane).

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.15, breadth 0.12; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell nearly octangular, with spiny surface; twenty long and stout radial spines between numerous smaller spines; eight wing-spines opposite in pairs in two crossed diagonal planes (as in the preceding species); twelve other strong spines in the lateral plane (four longer opposite in pairs on the poles of the principal and transverse axes, eight others smaller, alternating between these and the diagonal spines). Sagittal constriction twice as long as the hexagonal medullary shell. Four median cupolas somewhat smaller than the four lateral cupolas.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.15; length of the medullary shell 0.07, breadth 0.05.

Family XXIX. Lithelida, Haeckel (Pl. 49, figs. 1-7).

Definition.—Larcoidea with symmetrical spiral shell, divided by the spiral plane into two symmetrical halves; all windings of the spiral lie in this plane. Primordial chamber either simple or Larnacilla-shaped.

The family Lithelida comprises all those Larcoidea in which the growth of the latticed shell is spirally winding in one plane, Nautilus-like. They agree in the spiral growth with the following family. But in the Streblonida the spiral is screw-shaped, {689}ascending (like Helix). Therefore in these latter the geometrical fundamental form of the shell is asymmetrical or "dysdipleural," whereas in the Lithelida bilateral-symmetrical or "eudipleural." The lentelliptical or nearly spherical shell may be divided by a median section into two symmetrical halves; the right half is the mirror image of the left half.

When in 1862 I founded the family Lithelida in my Monograph (p. 515), I knew only one genus, Lithelius, with two species. The rich material of the Challenger collection contains a great number of similar spirally constructed Larcoidea, so that at the present time we may distinguish at least six genera. These belong to two different subfamilies, which may possibly be afterwards better separated as families. The first subfamily, Spiremida, possess a simple, spherical or subspherical, medullary shell; the second subfamily, Larcospirida, possess a trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell. No doubt these latter must be derived from Pylonida, as we observe all stages of development starting from a simple Trizonium; but perhaps also the Spiremida have the same origin, their simple, spherical or subspherical, medullary shell being derived from a trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell by reduction.

The general appearance in both subfamilies of the Lithelida is quite the same, and it requires a careful study of the medullary shell to distinguish certainly the Spiremida from the Larcospirida. This distinction is often not easy, particularly in the larger forms; the shell is often very opaque and difficult to understand. Only in one position, if the spiral axis be parallel to the axis of the eye of the observer, and the spiral plane be therefore fully seen in the optical plane of the microscope, the spiral line (or the axial section of the latticed spiral lamella) is distinctly observed; in all other positions the figure of the spiral is more or less indistinct, and the whole microscopical image often quite intricate and confused. The sufficient study of this family requires therefore the contemplation of the shell from different sides, and is the more difficult, as the variability of the Lithelida—as of the Pylonida—is extraordinarily great.

The description which I gave of Lithelius (1862) in my Monograph is in some points erroneous, and was afterwards (1879) corrected by R. Hertwig, who explained particularly the near relation of it to Tetrapyle. Indeed the intermediate forms between the Lithelida and the Pylonida are so numerous and so evident in all stages of development, that the derivation of the former (at least of the Larcospirida) from the latter is quite clear. The analogy between the structure of the Lithelida and the calcareous (foraminiferous) Alveolinida is not so complete as I supposed it to be in my Monograph (1862); particularly the formation of the small chambers between the turnings of the spiral lamella is much more complete in the Alveolinida than in the Lithelida.

The cortical shell of all Lithelida has the same geometrical fundamental form as Nautilus or as the nautiloid Polythalamia (Polystomella, Nummulites, &c.); therefore the shell is dipleural, being divided by the median plane into two symmetrical lateral halves. {690}Since the spiral line lies in the median plane, we will call it the spiral plane; it separates the right half from the left. The axis of the body, around which the spiral turns (without touching it), is the spiral axis. The latticed part of the cortical shell, which turns around them, is the spiral lamella. Only in one genus of our family, viz., Tholospira, are the spiral axis, the lateral axis, the spiral plane, and the sagittal plane quite as in Nautilus. In all other genera this disposition is different or is uncertain. This depends on the different part of the cortical shell, from which the spiral growth begins. In this respect we can distinguish four different modes.

In the Larcospirida (or the Lithelida with Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell) the spiral growth exhibits four quite different forms. It begins here with Larcospira, in which already the first cortical girdle of the Diplozonaria determines the spiral growth; one wing of this girdle, the transverse girdle of Amphipyle, grows more swiftly than the other, overgrows it, and thus turns around the principal axis. In Pylospira the first or transverse girdle is already perfectly formed (as in Amphipyle), and the spiral growth is introduced by the second or lateral girdle of Tetrapyle; one wing of it (the right or the left) grows more swiftly than the other, overgrows it, and thus turns around the sagittal axis. In Tholospira also the second girdle is complete, and the spiral growth begins from the third or sagittal girdle. One of its wings grows more swiftly than the other, overgrows it, and thus turns around the transverse axis. Consequently we see that each of the three dimensive planes of the lentelliptical Larcoid-body may be the spiral plane: in Larcospira the transverse plane, in Pylospira the lateral plane, in Tholospira the sagittal plane. Correspondingly the spiral axis in the first genus is the principal, in the second the sagittal, in the third the transverse axis of the central Larnacilla-shell. Therefore in these three genera the spiral plane is the plane of the latticed girdle, which determines the spiral growth, one of both its wings overgrowing the other.

In each of the three above mentioned genera the spiral may be simple or double; it remains simple if only one of both wings of the turning girdle overgrow the other, and this latter remain a simple half girdle (or tube-like wing). Whereas the spiral becomes double if the second wing of the girdle afterwards follow the example of the first wing and now turn around it in the same direction. As this happens in all three genera, we can subdivide them into six subgenera.

A quite peculiar form of spiral growth is produced in Spironium, in which the direction of growth in both lateral wings of the transverse girdle is inverse from the beginning. The left wing grows against the posterior, the right wing against the anterior pole of the principal axis, turning around it in crossed, eight-like spirals. The whole shell afterwards assumes a lentelliptical form.

Commonly between the embracing spiral turnings or convolutions a great number of radial beams is developed, irregularly disposed and often branching; they support the {691}thin spiral lamellæ and give to the whole shell more solidity. Often these beams form imperfect radial septa, by which the spiral cavity of the turnings is divided into a variable number of chambers. But these chambers never become so regular and perfect as in the analogous nautiloid Polythalamia.

In many Lithelida the growth of the shell reaches a certain limit, concluding with the formation of a superficial latticed lamella of lentelliptical or nearly spherical form. In many other forms of the family this seems not to be the case; but these may possibly be younger forms, afterwards reaching the same limit.

The network of the shell in the Lithelida is commonly quite irregular, and so variable that its special conformation has usually no value in the determination of the species. The surface of the shell is often covered with radial spines, which are sometimes arborescent.

The central capsule seems always to preserve the same lentelliptical form (or triaxial ellipsoid) as in all other Larcoidea. With the increase of growth it encloses successively a larger part of the spiral cortical shell, but on the outside is constantly protected by the last turnings of the spiral, or by the lattice-lamella of the surface.

Synopsis of the Genera of Lithelida.

Subfamily 1. Spiremida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Lithelida with simple, spherical or subspherical, medullary shell.

Genus 304. Spirema,^[344] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Lithelida with simple, spherical or subspherical, medullary shell, and lentelliptical or subspherical, spirally constructed cortical shell; surface smooth or thorny, without radial spines.

The genus Spirema begins the series of the Spiremida, or of those Lithelida in which the medullary shell presents a simple latticed sphere or ellipsoid, never composed of a double, trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped shell. In the present state of our knowledge we cannot say whether this simple medullary shell be a primary formation, or effected by secondary means, by reduction of a double Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell, which is constantly found in the Larcospirida. The species of this genus (as of all Lithelida) are difficult to distinguish, are transformistic, and incline very much to variations and abnormalities. The spiral may be simple or double.

Subgenus 1. Spiremarium, Haeckel.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, with smooth surface; proportion of its three dimensive axes = 4 : 5 : 6. In the median plane are visible four perfect turnings of the simple spiral, the breadth of which gradually increases towards the third convolution, finally decreasing; the broadest (third) turning three times as broad as the simple spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the lentelliptical cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.15, height 0.12; diameter of the spherical medullary shell 0.02.

Cortical shell nearly spherical, with smooth surface; proportion of its three dimensive axes = 1.4 : 1.5 : 1.6. In the median plane are visible three perfect turnings of the simple spiral, all of the same breadth as the simple spherical medullary shell; the breadth of each convolution somewhat greater at the poles of the principal than at the poles of the sagittal axis.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.16, breadth 0.15, height 0.14; medullary shell 0.018.

Flustrella haliomma, Ehrenberg (1861), Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1872, p. 293, Taf. ii. fig. 6.

Cortical shell egg-shaped, with thorny surface; proportion of its three axes = 4 : 5 : 6. In the median plane are visible three perfect turnings of the simple spiral, the first and second of about the same breadth as the simple spherical medullary shell, the third suddenly increasing, and finally three to four times as broad. Network of the surface irregular, with roundish pores.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2, breadth 0.17, height 0.14; medullary shell 0.013.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Greenland, 1000 fathoms, Ehrenberg; Færöe Channel, John Murray.

Subgenus 2. Spiremidium, Haeckel.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, with smooth surface; proportion of its three dimensive axes = 6 : 7 : 8. In the median plane are visible three perfect turnings of a double spiral, the breadth of which gradually increases; the broadest (third) convolution three times as broad as the simple lentelliptical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.24, breadth 0.21, height 0.18; medullary shell 0.02.

Cortical shell nearly spherical, with thorny surface; proportion of its three axes = 2 : 2.1 : 2.2. In the median plane are visible two perfect turnings of a double spiral, the breadth of which in the second convolution is four times as great as that of the first convolution and the simple spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.22, breadth 0.21, height 0.2; medullary shell 0.02.

Habitat.—Tropical Atlantic, off Sierra Leone, Station 348, depth (2450) fathoms.

Genus 305. Lithelius,^[345] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 519.

Definition.—Lithelida with simple, spherical or subspherical, medullary shell, and lentelliptical or subspherical, spirally constructed cortical shell; surface covered with numerous, simple or branched, radial spines.

The genus Lithelius, founded by me in 1862, and represented by two Mediterranean species, was at that time the only known form of this family, which now contains six genera and twenty-seven species. It differs from the foregoing Spirema in the possession of numerous radial spines on the surface. These may be either simple or branched. The spiral may be simple or double, and according to this latter modification we distinguish two different subgenera.

Subgenus 1. Lithospira, Haeckel.

Lithelius spiralis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 519, Taf. xxvii. figs. 6, 7.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a third times as long as broad, covered with very numerous (one hundred to one hundred and fifty or more) simple, bristle-shaped radial spines, about as long {694}as the shell. Spiral turnings simple, all nearly of the same breadth and scarcely broader than the simple spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (with six spiral convolutions) 0.15, breadth 0.13; diameter of the medullary shell 0.012.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, Messina, Haeckel, surface; Atlantic, Stations 348 to 353, surface.

Lithelius primordialis, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organism. d. Radiol., p. 54, Taf. vi. figs. 4, 4a.

Cortical shell subspherical, covered with numerous simple, bristle-shaped radial spines, longer than the shell. Spiral turnings simple, with gradually increasing breadth, so that the beginning of the third spiral is twice as broad as the first and as the simple spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell (with two spiral convolutions) 0.12; diameter of the medullary shell 0.02.

Lithelius alveolina, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 520, Taf. xxvii. figs. 8, 9.

Cortical shell spherical, covered with simple, very numerous (two hundred to three hundred or more), short, bristle-shaped radial spines, scarcely half as long as the radius of the shell. Spiral turnings simple, with gradually increasing breadth, so that the beginning of the third spiral is three times as broad as the first and as the simple spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell (with four spiral convolutions) 0.2; diameter of the medullary shell 0.01.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, on many Stations, surface.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a fourth times as long as broad, covered with numerous (eighty to one hundred and twenty or more) short, branched radial spines, about half as long as the radius of the shell; each spine once or twice dichotomous, with curved divergent branches. Spiral turnings simple, with gradually increasing breadth, so that the beginning of the third spiral is twice as broad as the first, and as the simple spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (with four spiral convolutions) 0.18, breadth 0.14; diameter of the medullary shell 0.015.

Subgenus 2. Drymospira, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Cortical shell spherical, covered with simple, very numerous (two hundred to three hundred) bristle-shaped radial spines, longer than the diameter of the shell. Spiral turnings double, both of the same breadth, gradually increasing with the growth of the shell and several times surpassing the diameter of the simple spherical medullary shell. (Pl. 49, fig. 2, exhibits only the first convolutions in the centre of the shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell (with four spiral convolutions) 0.18; diameter of the medullary shell 0.02.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 266 to 272, surface and in various depths.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, one and a half times as long as broad, covered with numerous (fifty to eighty or more) branched radial spines, about as long as the greatest diameter of the shell; each spine with two to four lateral branches, which are again branched or dichotomous. Spiral turnings double, both of little different breadth, which increases considerably with the growth of the shell, so that the third turn is four times as broad as the simple spherical medullary shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (with three spiral convolutions) 0.18, breadth 0.12; diameter of the medullary shell 0.01.

Subfamily 2. Larcospirida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Lithelida with double, trizonal, or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell.

Genus 306. Larcospira,^[346] n. gen.

Definition.—Lithelida with double, trizonal, or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell; cortical shell subspherical or lentelliptical, constructed of a simple or double spiral of the transverse girdle (or primary cortical girdle); the spiral lamella revolving around the principal axis.

The genus Larcospira begins the interesting series of the Larcospirida, or of those Lithelida in which the medullary shell is formed by a trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped lattice-shell, and the cortical shell by spiral turnings of one of the three girdles, which compose the cortical shell of the Pylonida. In Larcospira, as the oldest and most simple form of Larcospirida, the spiral is formed by the transverse girdle, or the first girdle of the Diplozonaria, the only cortical girdle of Amphipyle. If in this genus one of both wings of the transverse girdle grow stronger than the other and overgrow the latter, turning {696}around the principal axis, we reach the characteristic form of Larcospirema, the first subgenus of Larcospira; but if afterwards the second wing follow the example of the first, and overgrow it from the other side, we reach the typical form of the second subgenus, Larcospironium. In this latter subgenus the spiral becomes double, whilst in the former it remains simple.

Subgenus 1. Larcospirema, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spiral convolutions or turns of the cortical shell simple; only one single wing of the transverse girdle turning around the principal axis.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, four times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad, without constrictions. One lateral wing of the transverse girdle is more strongly developed and turns around the other in two to three simple spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.2, breadth 0.16; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell with thorny surface, three times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane nearly quadrangular, with four rounded corners (on the poles of two crossed diagonal axes), one and a third times as long as broad, with one sagittal constriction at the poles of the principal axis. One lateral wing of the transverse girdle turns around the other in one and a half to two simple spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.14; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell with spiny surface, four times as long as the hexagonal medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane nearly hexagonal, one and a half times as long as broad, with six rounded corners (two on the poles of the principal axis, four on the poles of two crossed diagonal axes), with three slight ring-like constrictions. One lateral wing of the transverse girdle turns around the other in two to two and a half simple spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.16; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Larcospironium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spiral convolutions or turns of the cortical shell double; both wings of the transverse girdle turning around the principal axis.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, six times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical, one and a fourth times as long as broad, without constrictions. Both lateral wings of the transverse girdle turn round one another and form one and a half to two double spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.25, breadth 0.2; length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.035.

Genus 307. Pylospira,^[347] n. gen.

Definition.—Lithelida with double, trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell; cortical shell subspherical or lentelliptical, constructed of a single or double spiral of the lateral girdle (or second cortical girdle); the spiral lamella revolving round the sagittal axis.

The genus Pylospira follows after Larcospira as the second genus of Larcospirida; but in this latter the spiral of the cortical shell is formed by the transverse girdle (or the first lattice-girdle of the Diplozonaria), whilst in Pylospira it is produced by the lateral girdle, or the second lattice-girdle of that group. Therefore Pylospira may be derived phylogenetically from Tetrapyle in the same manner as Larcospira from Amphipyle. Whilst in this latter the first cause of the spiral turning, the unequal growth of both girdle-wings, proceeds from the transverse girdle, in Pylospira it proceeds from the lateral girdle. One of its wings overgrows the other, turning around the sagittal axis. If the second wing do not become developed, the spiral remains simple and represents the subgenus Pylospirema; but if afterwards the second wing follow the example of the first and overgrow it from the other side, we reach the typical form of the second subgenus, Pylospironium, with a double spiral.

Subgenus 1. Pylospirema, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spiral convolutions or turns of the cortical shell simple, only one single wing of the lateral girdle turning around the sagittal axis.

Cortical shell with thorny surface, five times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four internal gates (as in Tetrapyle, between the complete lateral wings of the transverse girdle) kidney-shaped. One principal wing of the lateral girdle turns around the other in one and a half to two simple spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.21, breadth 0.15; length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell with thorny surface, three times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical or nearly hexagonal, with four rounded corners (on the poles of two crossed diagonal axes), one and a third times as long as broad. Eight internal egg-shaped gates (as in Octopyle), between the complete lateral wings of the transverse girdle, and two axial beams in the principal axis. One single wing of the lateral girdle turns around the other in two to three simple spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.18, breadth 0.14; length of the medullary shell 0.06, breadth 0.035.

Subgenus 2. Pylospironium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spiral convolutions or turns of the cortical shell double; both wings of the lateral girdle turning around the sagittal axis.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, seven times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four internal kidney-shaped gates between the complete lateral wings of the transverse girdle (as in Tetrapyle). Both principal wings of the lateral girdle turn round one another in two to two and a half double spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.22, breadth 0.17; length of the medullary shell 0.03, breadth 0.025.

Genus 308. Tholospira,^[348] n. gen.

Definition.—Lithelida with double, trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell; cortical shell subspherical or lentelliptical constructed of a simple or double spiral of the sagittal girdle (or third cortical girdle); the spiral lamella revolving around the transverse axis.

The genus Tholospira represents the third genus of Larcospirida. Whilst the spiral growth of the cortical shell is produced in Larcospira by the first (transverse) girdle of the Diplozonaria, in Pylospira by the second (lateral) girdle, in Tholospira it is effected by the third or sagittal girdle, which we found complete in Pylonium. If in this genus one wing of the sagittal girdle overgrow the other remaining one and turn around the transverse axis, we get Tholospirema, the first subgenus of our genus, with simple spiral; but if afterwards the second wing follow the example of the first, and overgrow it from the other side, we get Tholospironium, with double spiral.

Subgenus 1. Tholospirema, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spiral convolutions or turns of the cortical shell simple, only one single wing of the sagittal girdle turning around the transverse axis.

Cortical shell with smooth surface, five times as long as the lentelliptical medullary shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical, one and a half times as long as broad. Four internal kidney-shaped gates (between the lateral wings of the transverse girdle, as in Tetrapyle). One wing of the sagittal girdle turns around the other in two to two and a half simple spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.24, breadth 0.18; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04.

Cortical shell covered with numerous (sixty to eighty or more) simple, bristle-like radial spines, about the length of the shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane nearly quadrangular, with four rounded corners (on the poles of two crossed diagonal axes), one and a half times as long as broad. Eight internal egg-shaped gates (between the lateral wings of the transverse girdle and two axial {700}beams in the principal axes, as in Octopyle). One wing of the sagittal girdle turns around the other in two to three simple spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.27, breadth 0.18; length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell covered with numerous (forty to fifty or more) branched radial spines, about half as long as the shell; each spine with two to six dichotomous branches. Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Eight internal egg-shaped gates, as in the foregoing species. One single wing of the sagittal girdle turns around the other in three to four spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.22, breadth 0.17; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Tholospironium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spiral convolutions of the cortical shell double; both wings of the sagittal girdle turning around the transverse axis.

Cortical shell covered with numerous (sixty to eighty or more) simple conical spines, about half as long as the shell. Perimeter of the lateral plane hexagonal, one and a half times as long as broad. Four internal kidney-shaped gates, as in Tetrapyle. Both wings of the sagittal girdle turn round one another in two to two and a half double spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.21, breadth 0.14; length of the medullary shell 0.04, breadth 0.03.

Cortical shell covered with numerous (forty to fifty or more) branched radial spines; each spine antler-shaped, about as long as the medullary Larnacilla-shell, with eight to twelve dichotomous branches (similar to Cromyodrymus abietinus, Pl. 30, fig. 6). Perimeter of the lateral plane elliptical, one and a third times as long as broad. Four internal kidney-shaped gates, as in Tetrapyle. Both wings of the sagittal girdle turn round one another in one and a half to two double spiral turns.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.2, breadth 0.15; length of the medullary shell 0.03, breadth 0.025.

Genus 309. Spironium,^[349] n. gen.

Definition.—Lithelida with double, trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell; cortical shell subspherical or lentelliptical, constructed of two crossed spirals, which arise from both lateral wings of one girdle (commonly the lateral girdle) and revolve in an opposite diagonal direction around the principal axis.

The genus Spironium differs in a very remarkable manner from all foregoing Lithelida, and is distinguished by a quite peculiar mode of growth. It is most nearly allied to Larcopyle, and may, like this, be derived from Amphipyle (or rather from Larnacilla, beginning to transform into Amphipyle). But whilst in Larcopyle one of the two wings of the lateral girdle overgrows the other in the direction of the transverse axis (turning around the principal axis), here in Spironium both lateral wings begin at the same time to grow out from the lateral sides of the Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell; the most remarkable thing is, however, that the direction of growth in the wings is diverse from the beginning: the left wing grows downwards and turns around the lower (aboral) pole of the principal axis, the right wing grows upwards and turns around the upper (oral) pole of the same axis. Thus both wings of the lateral girdle are crossed in diagonal axes, and with increasing growth one overgrows the other in the direction of these diagonals, so as to resemble the figure 8 in shape. The open gates remaining between the turnings of the girdle become afterwards closed on the surface by irregular lattice-work, and so the whole cortical shell assumes finally a spherical, ellipsoidal, or lentelliptical form. Its surface sometimes becomes covered with simple or branched radial spines. In the interior the eight characteristic egg-shaped gates of Octopyle are commonly (or constantly?) visible, two strong radial beams in the principal axis arising from the poles of the lentelliptical medullary shell.

Subgenus 1. Spironetta, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the shell smooth or rough, but not with radial spines.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, its breadth (or transverse axis) surpassing considerably the length (or the principal axis). Surface thorny and somewhat hump-backed. The spiral wings of the transverse girdle have about the same breadth as the eight internal gates between them and the axial beams.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell (or principal axis) 0.15, breadth (or transverse axis) 0.2; length of the medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04.

Habitat.—South Atlantic, west of Tristan da Cunha, Station 332, depth 2200 fathoms.

Cortical shell nearly spherical, four times as great as the subspherical medullary shell. Surface rough. The spiral wings of the transverse girdle about half as broad as the eight internal gates between them and the axial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.16, of the medullary shell 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Spironilla, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the shell covered with simple or branched radial spines.

Cortical shell subspherical, five times as great as the subspherical medullary shell. Surface covered with numerous (sixty to eighty or more) simple, bristle-like radial spines, longer than the shell. The spiral wings of the transverse girdle of about the same breadth as the eight internal gates between them and the axial beams.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the cortical shell 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.04.

Cortical shell lentelliptical, its breadth surpassing its length considerably. Surface covered with numerous (forty to sixty or more) thin radial spines, about as long as the greatest diameter of the shell; each spine with two to six lateral branches, which are either simple or again branched (similar to Cromyodrymus abietinus, Pl. 30, fig. 6). The spiral wings of the transverse girdle only half as broad as the eight internal gates between them and the strong beams of the principal axis.

Dimensions.—Length of the cortical shell 0.12, breadth 0.15; length of the hexagonal medullary shell 0.05, breadth 0.04.

Family XXX. Streblonida, n. fam. (Pl. 49, figs. 8, 9).

Definition.—Larcoidea with asymmetrical, spiral, polythalamous shell, composed of a variable number of roundish chambers, which form together an ascending spiral; both halves of the shell unequal. Primordial chamber either simple or Larnacilla-shaped.

The family Streblonida comprises those Larcoidea in which a number of chambers is arranged in an ascending spiral, round a simple or trizonal primordial chamber, like winding stairs. They show the same spiral structure as in the foregoing {703}family, but whilst in the Lithelida the spiral line lies in one plane (as in Nautilus), in the Streblonida it ascends like a screw (as in Helix). Therefore the former have the same relation, regarding the spiral structure, to the nautiloid Polythalamia as the latter to the turbinoid Foraminifera. Indeed the single forms of Streblemida repeat in their special structure the characteristic genera of Turbinoida, such as Globigerina, Rosalina, Pulvinulina, Hastigerina, &c. As in these calcareous turbinoid Foraminifera, so also in the analogous siliceous Streblonida the distinction of species is very difficult and open to many objections.

The number of species in this family is very small; all are rare and for the most part very opaque and difficult to understand, so that the following distinction of a dozen species can have only a provisional value. To get a complete idea of their peculiar structure, the shell must be turned and observed from different sides, and thus their full study requires yet much time and work. There are to be found evident transitional forms between them and the Lithelida on the one hand and the Soreumida on the other. Besides this, most species of Streblonida seem to have more inclination to individual varieties and abnormalities than the majority of the other Radiolaria.

The general form of the whole shell is in the Streblonida sometimes more egg-shaped or even subspherical, at other times more top-like or conical, sometimes nearly discoidal. The height of the shell (or the vertical axis of the ascending spiral) is occasionally larger, at other times smaller than the breadth (or the greatest horizontal diameter, perpendicular to the height). Some very flat forms seem to approach the Lithelida. With regard to the internal screw-formation, the shell of all Streblonida is asymmetrical.

The number of the aggregated incomplete chambers is commonly between ten and twenty, but ascends sometimes to thirty, forty, or more. Sometimes the size of all the chambers is nearly the same, sometimes they increase gradually, occasionally also very rapidly. The primordial chamber (or the first and oldest) seems to be commonly the smallest, and inversely, the last and youngest chamber, the largest. But sometimes (in Streblopyle) also the contrary may be the case. The form of the single chambers is very variable, from the spherical or hemispherical through all transitions leading to irregular roundish or longish forms. The network is commonly irregular, with small roundish pores of different sizes, but sometimes also regular, circular. The surface of the shell is commonly smooth or rough, rarely covered with radial spines. In most species the reticulation and particularly the separation of the chambers is more or less incomplete.

As in the Lithelida, so also in the Streblonida we can distinguish two subfamilies. In the Streblacanthida (Streblonia, Streblacantha) the primordial chamber is a simple, spherical, subspherical, or lentelliptical latticed shell. In the Streblopylida (Streblopyle) the primordial chamber is trizonal or Larnacilla-shaped, as in the greater number of Larcoidea, composed of three elliptical latticed girdles of unequal size, perpendicular one to another, and surrounding a simple central chamber. As in the Lithelida, so also {704}here we cannot certainly say whether the former have originated from the latter by reduction of the Larnacilla-shell, or whether both groups be of different origin. The latter is perhaps more probable. This family as well as the foregoing requires a much more careful study than I could give to it.

Synopsis of the Genera of Streblonida.

Genus 310. Streblonia,^[350] n. gen.

Definition.—Streblonida with simple, spherical, subspherical, or lentelliptical primordial chamber, beginning the screw-like series of spirally ascending chambers. Surface smooth or thorny, without radial spines.

The genus Streblonia contains those Streblonida in which a variable number of roundish, subspherical, or longish chambers form a screw-like aggregate, beginning with a quite simple primordial chamber. The special order of the complex spiral offers interesting resemblances to different genera of the calcareous Foraminifera, from which I have taken the corresponding name of the species. The whole form of the shell is sometimes more egg-shaped or subspherical, at other times more top-like or conical, occasionally very flat. Its surface is smooth or rough, but not covered with radial spines.

Shell subspherical, thick walled, clustered, with eight to ten nearly spherical chambers, of rapidly increasing size, the tenth chamber about twelve times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell nearly equal to the height. Pores subregular, circular, hexagonally formed, of about the same breadth as the bars; about sixteen on the breadth of the tenth chamber. (Resembles very much the common Globigerina.)

Shell nearly egg-shaped, clustered, with eight to eleven subspherical chambers of gradually increasing size, the tenth chamber about six times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell about {705}half its height. Pores of the shell subregular, circular, about twice as broad as the bars; about twenty on the breadth of the tenth chamber. (Resembles some species of Uvigerina.)

Shell egg-shaped, thin walled, with twelve to fourteen roundish chambers of rapidly increasing size, the tenth chamber about seven times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell about two-thirds of the height. Pores irregular roundish, twice as broad as the bars; about twenty on the tenth chamber. (Resembles certain forms of Polymorphina.)

Shell nearly egg-shaped, thick walled, clustered, with fourteen to eighteen egg-shaped chambers of rapidly increasing size, the tenth chamber about eight times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell about two-thirds of the height. Pores irregular, roundish, half as broad as the bars; about twelve on the breadth of the tenth chamber. (Resembles closely Bulimina.)

Shell top-shaped or flatly conical, with twelve to sixteen chambers of gradually increasing size, the tenth chamber about four times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell twice as large as the height. Pores subregular, circular, very small, of the same breadth as the bars; about twelve on the breadth of the tenth chamber. (Resembles some forms of Rosalina.)

Shell very flatly conical, nearly lenticular or discoidal, with twenty to twenty-five chambers of nearly equal size, the tenth chamber a little broader than the first. Breadth of the shell exceeds five to six times the height. Pores subregular, circular, very small, half as broad as the bars; about eight on the breadth of the tenth chamber. (Resembles closely Planorbulina.)

Shell top-shaped or flatly conical, with thirty to forty chambers of slowly increasing size, the tenth chamber about three times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell exceeds three times the height. Pores circular, subregular, very small, about one-third as broad as the bars; about thirty in the breadth of the tenth chamber. (Resembles closely Pulvinulina.)

Genus 311. Streblacantha,^[351] n. gen.

The genus Streblacantha differs from the nearly allied Streblonia only in the covering of radial spines, and bears therefore the same relation to it as Hastigerina has to Globigerina amongst the similar calcareous Polythalamia.

Streblonia siderolina, Haeckel, 1883, MS.

Shell flatly conical, with fourteen to sixteen nearly hemispherical chambers of gradually increasing size, the tenth chamber about six times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell nearly equal to the height. Pores subregular, circular, hexagonally framed, twice as broad as the bars; about nine pores on the breadth of the tenth chamber. Surface covered with numerous short conical radial spines, one-fourth to one-sixth as long as the diameter of the shell.

Shell conical, with sixteen to eighteen roundish chambers of gradually increasing size, the tenth chamber about three times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell about one and a half times the height. Pores irregular, roundish. Surface covered with numerous strong conical radial spines, about half as long as the diameter of the shell.

Shell nearly spherical, clustered, with nine to eleven nearly spherical chambers of rapidly increasing size, the tenth chamber about six times as broad as the first. Breadth of the shell nearly equal to the height. Pores subregular, circular, of about the same breadth as the bars. Surface bristly, covered with numerous very thin and long, needle-shaped radial spines, longer than the diameter of the shell. (Resembles closely Hastigerina.)

Genus 312. Streblopyle,^[352] n. gen.

Definition.—Streblonida with trizonal lentelliptical medullary shell (composed like Larnacilla of three elliptical dimensive girdles surrounding one simple central primordial chamber). From this begins a screw-like series of spirally ascending chambers. Surface smooth or thorny, without radial spines.

The genus Streblopyle presents externally the same appearance and contour as Streblonia, and is composed like this of a variable number of chambers, ascending screw-like around the axis of the spiral shell. The first or primordial chamber, however, in which the growth begins, is in Streblonia a simple spherical shell, but in Streblopyle a trizonal shell or Larnacilla-shell (compare above, p. 600). The chambers are very incompletely separated, and comparatively much larger, their number much smaller than in Streblonia. The structure in the species of this genus is difficult to understand.

Shell helicoid, one and a third times as high as broad, with eight to twelve incomplete semizonal chambers, ascending spirally from the lateral half girdle of the lentelliptical medullary shell, octopyle-shaped, and enveloping it in three to four spiral turnings. The height of the whole cortical shell equals nearly five times the height of the trizonal medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish. Surface of the shell rough or nearly smooth. (This species seems to be nearly allied to Spironium octonium.)

Dimensions.—Breadth of the spiral cortical shell 0.18, height 0.24; breadth of the medullary shell 0.04, height 0.05.

Shell egg-shaped or nearly spherical, about as high as broad, with eight to nine semizonal chambers, ascending spirally from the subspherical trizonal medullary shell, and enveloping it in {708}four to five turnings. The sixth chamber twice as broad as the trizonal medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish. Surface of the shell thorny.

Dimensions.—Breadth of the spiral cortical shell 0.27, height 0.25; breadth of the medullary shell 0.05, height 0.06.

Family XXXI. Phorticida, Haeckel (Pl. 49, figs. 10, 11).

Definition.—Larcoidea with quite irregular monothalamous shell, representing irregular modifications of an original lentelliptical latticed shell; the irregular cortical shell encloses a regular or subregular, lentelliptical or trizonal medullary shell.

The family Phorticida comprises a small number of Larcoidea in which a subregular, trizonal, lentelliptical medullary shell is enclosed by an irregular simple or spongy cortical shell. The lattice-work of the latter is sometimes simple and complete, at other times incomplete, with open gates (as in the Pylonida), sometimes also spongy. Its form is always more or less irregular, roundish, often dimply or tuberous; different from most other Larcoidea.

The medullary shell is constantly a regular or subregular Larnacilla-shell, composed of three elliptical latticed girdles of different sizes, perpendicular one to another. This leaves no doubt that the Phorticida are true Larcoidea. The connection of it with the cortical shell is rarely effected by radial beams, commonly by two opposite latticed wings, which are identical with the lateral halves of the transverse girdle in the Pylonida diplozonaria (Amphipyle, Tetrapyle). Often also between this transverse and a second (lateral) girdle there remain large open gates, so that the affinity between these Phorticida and the Pylonida cannot be doubted. In other cases these gates become closed, so that they more nearly approach the Larnacida. From both families they differ by the irregularity of the papillate or tuberous cortical shell. The network is more or less irregular, its surface often thorny, but never covered with symmetrically disposed radial spines.

The central capsule is lentelliptical, encloses the medullary shell, and is enveloped by the cortical shell, as in the nearly allied Pylonida and Larnacida, of which the Phorticida may be regarded as irregular aberrant forms.

Synopsis of the Genera of Phorticida.

Genus 313. Phorticium,^[353] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Phorticida with irregular cortical shell of simple lattice-work, enclosing a lentelliptical Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell.

The genus Phorticium comprises all Phorticida in which the irregular cortical shell is formed by simple lattice-work, not by spongy framework. We can divide this genus into two subgenera: in Phortopyle (as in the Pylonida) the lattice-work of the cortical shell exhibits large openings or gates; in Phortolarcus these gates are perfectly closed by network; the former may be regarded as abnormal or irregular Pylonida, the latter as modifications of Larnacida.

Subgenus 1. Phortopyle, Haeckel.

Definition.—Lattice-work of the irregular cortical shell incomplete, with large openings or gates.

Cortical shell irregular, roundish, about three times as large as the enclosed lentelliptical, regular, Larnacilla-shell, connected with it by some radial beams and irregularly latticed girdles; between these remain four to eight large open gates of irregular roundish form and size; and these gates are the same as in Tetrapyle and Octopyle. This very variable species may be regarded as a monstrosity of those genera of Pylonida; it is very common, but all individuals are more or less unequal; some specimens approach to some common species of Tetrapyle. The surface of the shell is more or less spiny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the irregular cortical shell 0.12 to 0.18; length of the lentelliptical medullary shell 0.05 to 0.06, breadth 0.035 to 0.045.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, &c., common, surface and in various depths.

Cortical shell irregular, roundish, tuberous, about four times as large as the enclosed subregular Larnacilla-shell, connected with it by some irregular radial beams, and by opposite, spirally begining, irregularly latticed girdles, comparable to those of Spironium; between them remain six to twelve large open gates of irregular size and form. Surface rough. The resemblance to some forms of Spironium makes it probable that this species is a deformity or monstrosity of that genus.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the irregular cortical shell 0.12 to 0.2, of the lentelliptical medullary shell 0.03 to 0.06.

Habitat.—Pacific, central area, Stations 270 to 274, surface, and in various depths.

Subgenus 2. Phortolarcus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Lattice-work of the irregular cortical shell complete, without large openings or gates.

Cortical shell irregular, roundish or longish, three times as large as the enclosed subregular, lentelliptical Larnacilla-shell, connected with it by two opposite latticed wings (the halves of the transverse girdle of Tetrapyle). Network of the cortical shell irregular, dense, perfectly closed, without larger openings or gates. Surface thorny. (May be regarded as a monstrous form of Larnacalpis.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the irregular cortical shell 0.15 to 0.18, of the medullary shell 0.04 to 0.06.

Cortical shell irregular, roundish, tuberous, with five to ten quite irregular or nearly hemispherical protuberances, which resemble the cupolas of Zonarida. The regular lentelliptical Larnacilla-shell is one-third to one-fourth as large as the enclosing cortical shell, and is connected with it by some irregular radial beams. Lattice-work completely closed, without gates. Surface spiny. (May be regarded as an anomalous form of Zonidium; as in the other species of this variable genus, the individuals are very unequal.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the irregular cortical shell 0.12 to 0.2, of the medullary shell 0.03 to 0.05.

Habitat.—Atlantic and Pacific, tropical zone, surface, and at various depths.

Genus 314. Spongophortis,^[354] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Phorticida with irregular cortical shell of spongy framework, enclosing a lentelliptical Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell.

The genus Spongophortis differs from Phorticium in the spongy framework of the cortical shell. This encloses the inner Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell either directly, or both shells are separated by a hollow interval, and connected either by radial beams or by latticed lamellæ. Perhaps both these subgenera might be better separated as genera.

Subgenus 1. Stypophorticium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy cortical shell immediately enclosing the lentelliptical medullary shell, without hollow interval.

Cortical shell irregular, roundish, rough or tuberous, composed of loose spongy framework, which immediately envelops the lentelliptical central Larnacilla-shell; the diameter of the former becomes about five to six times as large as that of the latter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.15 to 0.25, of the trizonal medullary shell 0.03 to 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Spongophorticium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spongy cortical shell separated by a hollow interval from the lentelliptical medullary shell.

Cortical shell irregular, roundish, four to five times as large as the enclosed lentelliptical Larnacilla-shell, with which it is connected by ten to twenty irregularly disposed radial beams. Spongy framework compact, about as thick as the medullary shell. Surface covered with numerous short, bristle-shaped, radial spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.15 to 0.2, of the trizonal medullary shell 0.035 to 0.045.

Cortical shell irregular, roundish, tuberous, three to four times as large as the enclosed lentelliptical Larnacilla-shell, connected with it by two opposite latticed wings (the halves of the transverse girdle of Tetrapyle). Spongy framework compact, about half as thick as the medullary shell. Surface rough. (May be regarded as an abnormal Tetrapyle or Larnacalpis, with an irregular spongy cortical shell.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the spongy cortical shell 0.16 to 0.2, of the trizonal medullary shell 0.04 to 0.06.

Family XXXII. Soreumida, Haeckel (Pl. 49, figs. 12, 13).

Definition.—Larcoidea with quite irregular polythalamous shell, composed of a variable number of chambers, aggregated without any definite order. Primordial chamber either simple or Larnacilla-shaped.

The family Soreumida contains a small number of Larcoidea, different from most other Sphærellaria in the complete irregularity of the polythalamous shell, which is composed of a variable number of roundish chambers or subspherical latticed shells, aggregated in the form of an irregular heap. We can distinguish in this family only two genera, with very different structure of the central medullary shell or the first chamber beginning the growth; and these correspond to the two subfamilies of the nearly allied Streblonida (p. 704). In Soreuma (as in Streblonia) the first or primordial chamber, from which the growth begins, is like the others, a simple spherical or irregular roundish lattice-shell. In Sorolarcus, however (as in Streblopyle), the first or primordial chamber is a trizonal or Larnacilla-shell. It is not improbable that the former originated phylogenetically from Streblonia, the latter from Streblopyle, by loss of the original spiral order of growth. But it is also possible that these groups have no nearer relation. Among the calcareous Foraminifera a very similar form is represented by Acervulina and its allies.

The general form of the whole shell in the Soreumida is sometimes more egg-shaped or lentelliptical, at other times even subspherical, occasionally quite irregular, tuberous, or clustered. The number of the aggregated chambers is very variable, in Sorolarcus between ten and thirty, in Soreuma ascending to fifty to eighty, sometimes from one hundred to one hundred and fifty and more. Their size is sometimes nearly equal, at other times very different, their form commonly very irregular, roundish, but sometimes also subspherical or egg-shaped. The network of the shell is also commonly irregular, with roundish pores of different sizes. The surface is usually smooth or rough, rarely covered with radial spines.

The central capsule is not known, as I observed only a few skeletons of this family.

Synopsis of the Genera of Soreumida.

Genus 315. Soreuma,^[355] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 464.

Definition.—Soreumida with numerous chambers, aggregated without any regularity around one simple, spherical or subspherical, central chamber.

The genus Soreuma contains those Soreumida in which no trace of any regular structure is found, but all the chambers of the irregular shell are without any order, aggregated around a simple spherical or subspherical central chamber or medullary shell. Soreuma may have originated either from Sorolarcus by loss of the central Larnacilla-shell or from Cenolarcus by irregular apposition of new chambers around the lentelliptical central chamber or simple Larcoid-shell. Some species seem to exhibit a transition to Sorolarcus. Owing to the absolute irregularity of the polythalamous shell Soreuma resembles Acervulina among the Foraminifera.

Subgenus 1. Soreumium, Haeckel.

Shell irregular, clustered, or tuberous, composed of a large number (one hundred and twenty to one hundred and fifty or more) of irregular, roundish chambers of very different sizes, the largest four to five times as broad as the smallest. Network very delicate, with very small roundish pores, to five times as broad as the bars. Surface thorny.

Shell irregularly lentelliptical, with different growth in the three dimensions, composed of a large number (forty to sixty or more) of irregular, roundish chambers of very different sizes, the largest six to eight times as broad as the smallest. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.21, breadth 0.17, height 0.13; diameter of the largest chambers 0.03, of the smallest 0.004.

Shell nearly spherical, composed of a variable number (twelve to fifteen or more) of irregularly aggregated subspherical chambers of nearly equal size. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars. Surface thorny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, of the largest chambers 0.04, of the smallest 0.005.

Shell quite irregular, cloddy, or tuberous, composed of twenty to thirty (or more) roundish chambers of almost uniform size, the largest twice to three times as broad as the smallest. Pores irregular, roundish. Surface smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.18 to 0.24, of the largest chambers 0.06, of the smallest 0.02.

Subgenus 2. Soreumidium, Haeckel.

Shell quite irregular, cloddy, or tuberous, composed of thirty to forty subspherical chambers of nearly the same size. Pores subregular, circular, twice as broad as the bars; on the equator of each chamber six to eight pores. Surface thorny, covered with irregularly scattered conical radial spines, about as long as the diameter of the chambers.

Shell nearly spherical, composed of sixty to seventy (or more) irregular, roundish chambers of very different sizes, the largest five to six times as broad as the smallest. Pores irregular, roundish. Surface bristly, covered with very numerous, long and thin, bristle-shaped radial spines, about as long as the diameter of the shell.

Genus 316. Sorolarcus,^[356] n. gen.

Definition.—Soreumida with numerous chambers, aggregated irregularly around a trizonal medullary shell or Larnacilla-shell.

The genus Sorolarcus comprises those Soreumida in which the heap of irregularly aggregated chambers encloses a central trizonal medullary shell, by which they demonstrate clearly their descent from Larnacida or Pylonida. The lentelliptical medullary {715}shell exhibits quite the same characteristic structure as that of Larnacilla, being composed of three elliptical latticed girdles, perpendicular one to another. In some species also the beginning of a second system of girdles is clearly indicated, so that there can be no doubt as to their derivation from Amphipyle or Tetrapyle.

Subgenus 1. Sorolarcium, Haeckel.

Shell irregular, clustered, or tuberous, composed of twenty to thirty irregular, roundish chambers of very different size, the largest four to eight times as broad as the smallest, aggregated without order around a central, lentelliptical, Larnacilla-shaped medullary shell. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Surface smooth or a little spiny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole shell 0.18, of the central Larnacilla-shell 0.05.

Shell irregularly roundish, clustered, composed of ten to twelve irregular rather long chambers of almost uniform size, the largest twice as broad as the smallest, aggregated without order around a central shell of the structure of Tetrapyle, which encloses an inner trizonal Larnacilla-shell of half the size. Pores irregular, roundish, twice to four times as broad as the bars. Surface spiny.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole shell 0.25, of the outer (Tetrapyle-like) medullary shell 0.12, of the inner (Larnacilla-like) shell 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Sorolarcidium, Haeckel.

Shell nearly spherical, composed of fifteen to eighteen irregularly aggregated roundish chambers of nearly equal size; in the centre a lentelliptical Larnacilla-shell. Surface covered with numerous thin, bristle-like radial spines, somewhat longer than the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the whole shell 0.21, of the central Larnacilla-shell 0.05.

Legion II. ACANTHARIA,

Acantharia, Haeckel, 1881.

Actipylea, Haeckel, 1882.

Acanthometrea, Hertwig, 1879.

Panacantha, Haeckel, 1878.

Definition.—Radiolaria with simple membrane bounding the central capsule, which is everywhere perforated by innumerable fine pores (disposed either equally or symmetrically). Extracapsulum without phæodium. Skeleton centrogenous (its growth proceeding from the centre), acanthinic (organic, not siliceous). Fundamental form originally spherical.

The legion Acantharia vel Actipylea, to the extent here defined, was constituted by me, 1878, in my Protistenreich (p. 102) under the name "Panacantha." A more accurate definition of this group was given in 1879 by Hertwig under the name Acanthometrea. Both names were replaced by me, 1881, in my Prodromus (pp. 421, 465) by the more convenient name Acantharia. This legion comprises all those Radiolaria which were first described by Johannes Müller, 1858, as Acanthometrae, and also an important part of his Haliomma. In my Monograph (1862, pp. 371-424) I disposed them in three families, Acanthometrida, Diploconida, and Dorataspida.

Although the number of genera and species in this legion is much increased by the rich collection of the Challenger, we can divide all Acantharia into two different orders: Acanthometra (without complete lattice-shell) and Acanthophracta (provided with a complete lattice-shell).

The Acantharia agree with the Spumellaria in the structure of the simple capsule-membrane, which is perforated by numerous small pores (but constantly devoid of the large main opening, which the Nassellaria and Phæodaria possess, being hence united as "Merotrypasta"). We can therefore unite both former legions as "Holotrypasta" (compare above, pp. 5, 6); but in many Acantharia (if not in all?) the numerous small pores of the capsule-membrane exhibit a certain peculiar arrangement not observed in the Spumellaria; therefore the latter can be regarded as true "Peripylea" in opposition to the former as "Actipylea."

The peculiar main character of all Actipylea or Acantharia is determined by the chemical constitution of their skeleton, which is not silex, but a peculiar organic substance, called by me in 1862 "acanthin" (Monogr. d. Radiol., pp. 30, 32). In all other Radiolaria the skeleton is composed of silex or of a silicate. But besides this {717}chemical difference, an important morphological character of the skeleton also separates the Acantharia from all other Radiolaria: in the latter the skeleton is never centrogenous or arising from the centre of the capsule; in strict opposition to this general fact the skeleton of all Acantharia is centrogenous, composed of radial spines, which arise from the central point of the capsule and pierce its membrane. These characteristic "radial spines of acanthin," arising from the centre, are never hollow (as formerly was supposed), but constantly solid. Their form is extremely variable, and most important for the distinction of genera and species; but more interesting from a general point of view is their peculiar arrangement or disposition.

The regular disposition of twenty radial spines has general value almost for all Acantharia, with the exception only of the small group of Actinelida. In this latter group the number of radial spines is either more or less than twenty, and their disposition is either quite irregular or follows a peculiar rule. The number of individuals of these Actinelida, compared with that of the other Acantharia, may be scarcely 1 per cent., whilst the latter have more than 99 per cent.; the number of observed species is in the former about 5 per cent., in the latter about 95 per cent. Nevertheless the small group of Actinelida is very important, being probably the ancestral group from which all other Acantharia have been phylogenetically derived. These other Acantharia, with twenty regularly disposed radial spines, represent the two large groups of Acanthonida and Acanthophracta. For short and clear distinction of these two groups of Acantharia, we will call the Actinelida (with irregular number and disposition of radial spines) Adelacantha, in opposition to the Icosacantha (Acanthonida and Acanthophracta), which all possess twenty regularly disposed radial spines.

Johannes Müller, the great zoologist, to whom we are indebted for the first detection and accurate knowledge of the Acanthometra, already recognised the regularity in the peculiar disposition of their twenty radial spines (Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1858, pp. 12, 37). In honour of my great master I have called this regular disposition the "Müllerian law of spine disposition," and have given a full explanation of it in my Monograph (1862, pp. 40-45, 371, 372). With regard to its general value for all Icosacantha (Acanthonida and Acanthophracta), we might also call this promorphological Müllerian law "the Icosacanthan law."

In 1862 I had already given the following precise definition of this "Icosacanthan law" (loc. cit., p. 40):—"Between two poles of a spineless axis are regularly disposed five parallel zones, each with four radial spines; the four spines of each zone are equidistant one from another, and also equidistant from each pole; and the four spines of each zone are so alternating with those of each neighbouring zone, that all twenty spines together lie in four meridian planes, which intersect one another at an angle of 45°." For the clear conception of this remarkable Müllerian law, and for the complete understanding of its high value for the complicated {718}morphology of all Icosacantha, it is the most profitable way to retain constantly in mind for comparison the figure of a terrestrial globe with its axis and zones. The axis of the globe is the spineless axis of all Icosacantha, around which all twenty spines are symmetrically disposed; it is perpendicular to the bisecting equatorial plane, in which lies the middle of the five parallel zones; therefore the four spines, crossed perpendicularly in this equatorial plane, are called the equatorial spines (c1 to c4 in the figures of Pls. 131-140); often, and mainly in the family Quadrilonchida (Pl. 131), these four equatorial spines are much larger or of a peculiar form, different from that of the sixteen other spines. Each pair of the four equatorial spines lies in one equatorial axis, and this latter is perpendicular to the crossing axis, in which lies the other pair of opposite spines. We may regard these two equatorial diameters, perpendicular one to another and to the spineless axis, as the two perradial axes or primary axes. Correspondingly the two meridian planes, which are determined by one perradial axis and the spineless axis, may be called the two primary or perradial meridian planes.

The globe is divided by the equatorial plane into two equal halves, the northern and the southern hemisphere. In each hemisphere there are disposed quite symmetrically eight radial spines, the distal ends of which fall in two parallel circles, a larger tropical circle (nearer to the equator) and a smaller polar circle (nearer to the pole of the spineless axis). Therefore we call the four spines of the former the "tropical spines" and the four spines of the latter the "polar spines." The angle between the former and the equatorial plane is about 30°, the angle between the latter and that plane about 60°.

The eight polar spines (four northern and four southern) lie in the same two meridian planes as the four equatorial spines. Therefore in each of these two perradial planes lie six radial spines, opposite in pairs; two equatorial and four polar spines. Commonly all eight polar spines are of the same size and form; and often they are also equal to the eight tropical spines; but in some cases (e.g., in some species of Quadrilonchida) they are much smaller than the twelve other spines, and sometimes even rudimentary. In all figures of the Pls. 131-140 (and also in my Monograph, 1862, Taf. xv.-xxii.) the polar spines of the northern circle are marked by the characters a1 to a4, the polar spines of the southern circle by the characters e1 to e4. In the first perradial meridian plane lie a1 and a3, e1 and e3, in the second a2 and a4, e2 and e4.

The eight tropical spines lie between the eight polar and the four equatorial spines, four in each hemisphere; their distal points fall in two parallel circles, which correspond exactly to the two tropics of the globe. Therefore the four northern tropical spines may be called "canceral spines" (as their ends fall in the Tropic of Cancer) and the four southern correspondingly "capricornal spines" (as their points lie {719}in the Tropic of the Capricorn). In the figures of the Pls. 131-140 (as well as in my Monograph, 1862, Taf. xv.-xxii.) the four northern or canceral spines are marked by the characters b1 to b4, and the four southern or capricornal spines by the characters d1 to d4. Also the eight tropical spines lie (crossed in pairs) in two meridian planes; they do not lie, however, in those perradial planes, in which are placed the twelve other spines; but in two different meridian planes, crossing the former at angles of 45°; we call these the "secondary" or "interradial" meridian planes. Each of these planes is determined by the spineless axis and by two crossed interradial or secondary axes; in each of the latter lie two opposite tropical spines. In the first interradial meridian plane lie b1 and b3, d1 and d3, in the second b2 and b4, d2 and d4.

It is a most interesting and important fact, that in all Icosacantha (Acanthonida and Acanthophracta) this regular disposition of the twenty spines (in five parallel zones and four meridian planes) becomes constantly preserved by heredity, whilst the form and size of the different spines are extremely varied by adaptation.

Only in a minority of the Icosacantha are all twenty spines perfectly equal or nearly equal in size and form; and then it is often very difficult to distinguish the different zones in their disposition. But in far the greater part the size or the form of the twenty spines becomes different in different zones; and then we can commonly distinguish easily the five different zones. Firstly, in all Quadrilonchida and Dorataspida, the four equatorial are distinguished from the sixteen other spines either by form or by size, and often in a very remarkable degree. As soon as these four principal spines are recognised, it is easy to determine also the sixteen others; for the eight polar spines lie in the same two (perradial) meridian planes as the former, whilst the eight tropical spines lie in two different (interradial) meridian planes, intersecting the two former at angles of 45°. Commonly, therefore, this distinction is rather easy.

In the majority of the Icosacantha all four equatorial spines are exactly of the same form and size. But in four families the two opposite spines of one equatorial axis are much larger, or of another form, than those of the crossing axis. This is the case in the Amphilonchida, Belonaspida, Hexalaspida, and Diploconida. Therefore we here call the major equatorial axis (with larger spines) the "hydrotomical axis," and the minor axis (with smaller spines) the "geotomical axis." Correspondingly, the meridian plane, in which the two larger equatorial spines are placed (c1, c3) and the appertaining four polar spines (a1, a3, e1, e3) may be called the "hydrotomical plane"; in the remarkable family of Hexalaspida (Pl. 139) all six spines of this hydrotomical plane are much larger than the other fourteen. Perpendicular to this plane is the second perradial meridian plane, which we call the "geotomical plane"; in it lie the two smaller equatorial spines (c2, c4) and the corresponding four polar spines (a2, a4, e2, e4). In some Hexalaspida (Hexonaspis and Hexacolpus) the six spines of the hydrotomical plane become so preponderant that {720}the other fourteen spines appear rudimentary; and in some of them the two equatorial spines of the hydrotomical plane are much larger than the four polar spines of the same plane. This curious relation reaches its maximum in the Diploconida (Pl. 140).

The different development of the two equatorial axes (of the larger hydrotomical and the smaller geotomical axis) is the first and most important cause of the peculiar forms, which are produced in the four cited families. We derive these terms also from the metaphor of the terrestrial globe. The hydrotomical plane is that meridian plane of the globe which intersects almost only the water-hemisphere (the island of Ferro in the Atlantic, the island of Pandora in the Pacific). Perpendicular to this is the geotomical plane, the meridian of which intersects great land-masses in both hemispheres (Bombay in India, Athabasca in Canada). Both poles of the smaller geotomical axis are everywhere equal (the East Indian and the Western American). However, both poles of the larger hydrotomical axis (the eastern Atlantic and the western Pacific) are in some genera very different, e.g., in Amphibelone among the Amphilonchida, and in Zygostaurus among the Quadrilonchida. In this case we call the anterior (commonly more developed) pole of the hydrotomical axis the frontal pole, the opposite posterior (commonly smaller) the caudal pole (Pl. 131, figs. 7, 8; Pl. 132, figs. 9, 10). On both sides of these (right and left) lie symmetrically the two equal poles of the geotomical lateral axis.

The promorphology of the Acantharia demonstrates that the geometrical fundamental form in those groups is different. In the majority of the Acantharia, where the two equatorial axes are equal, that form is a double square-pyramid or a "quadrate octahedron"; the four equal equatorial spines indicate the two diagonals of the square, which is the common base of the united regular four-sided pyramids; their common axis is the spineless axis of the body; the ends of the polar spines fall on the edges of the pyramids, while the ends of the tropical spines fall on the halving lines of their faces. However, in those Acantharia in which the two equatorial axes become different, the square double pyramid becomes changed into a rhombic double pyramid; the common base of the united pyramids is thus a rhombus; the hydrotomical axis is the larger, the geotomical axis the smaller diagonal of the rhombus.

Opposed to the Icosacantha, under the name "Adelacantha," is the small group of Actinelida, in which the number and disposition of the radial spines is variable, not determined by the Müllerian law. Probably this group is the common ancestral stock, from which the Icosacantha have been derived by gradual development of their peculiar disposition. Probably the oldest and most primitive form of all Acantharia is Actinelius, in which a variable and undetermined (often very large) number of radial spines is united in one common central point, and therefore forms a needle-sphere. Whilst here all spines (often more than a hundred) are of equal size and form, in the nearly allied Astrolophus large and small spines are intermingled. Both genera together form the small ancestral family of Astrolophida. In the strange family of Litholophida the radial spines do not {721}radiate within a spherical space (equally disposed in all directions), but within a quadrant or even an octant, forming a conical brush or pencil.

One very remarkable form of Actinelida is Actinastrum, forming the transition from these Adelacantha to the common regular Icosacantha. In the two observed species of Actinastrum we find thirty-two radial spines, twenty of which are disposed after the Müllerian law, as in the Icosacantha. The other twelve are four interradial equatorial spines (lying in the two secondary meridian planes) and eight perradial tropical spines (lying in the two primary meridian planes). Therefore here in each primary meridian plane are placed ten spines (two equatorial, four tropical, and four polar spines), whereas in each secondary meridian plane are placed six spines (two equatorial and four tropical). But here also all thirty-two spines are so regularly placed that their free distal ends fall into five parallel zones, four in each polar zone, eight in each tropical zone, and eight in the equatorial zone.

The Central Junction of the radial spines in the Acantharia becomes effected in four different ways:—(1) by simple apposition of the pyramidal central ends or bases; (2) by a basal leaf-cross, or by broad wings, four on each spine, supported one upon the other; (3) by a central concrescence of the meeting bases of all the twenty spines, growing perfectly together; and (4) by a concrescence in pairs of every two opposite spines. The most common and probably the original mode of junction is the first—by pyramidal apposition; the spines at the central base are pointed in the form of a pyramid, and the triangular faces of the neighbouring pyramids are simply placed upon one another. Often the small basal pyramids are imperfectly separated from the spines by an annular constriction. Commonly the basal pyramids of the four equatorial spines are six-sided, those of the sixteen other spines five-sided.

The second mode of junction, by a basal leaf-cross, is developed from the first and appears as a strengthening or a mechanical elaboration of it. Immediately above the basal pyramid arise from its radial edges four thin and broad triangular leaves or wings, and the meeting edges of the neighbouring wings are in apposition one with the other, so that between the bases of every three or four neighbouring spines a hollow pyramidal space remains open. The apex of such a pyramidal space is directed towards the centre of the body, but separated from it by the small basal pyramid; its open base is directed outwards. The twenty-two hollow pyramidal spaces are disposed regularly in four different groups:—(A) Four equatorial spaces, four-sided, each limited by two equatorial and two tropical spines (one canceral and one capricornal); (B) eight perizonal spaces (four northern and four southern), four-sided, each limited by one equatorial, two tropical, and one polar spine; (C) eight peripolar spaces (four northern and four southern), three-sided, each limited by one tropical and two polar spines; (D) two polar spaces (one northern and one southern), four-sided, each limited by four neighbouring polar spines.

The third mode of junction, by central concrescence of all twenty spines, was formerly regarded by me as an important peculiarity, sufficient for the separation of subfamilies and genera (Monogr. d. Radiol., 1862, pp. 399, 401; Prodromus, 1881, p. 466). But I found afterwards that in many species where the twenty spines commonly remain separated, accidentally they grow perfectly together and form one single piece of acanthin—a starrulet with twenty rays. Therefore I now think it is more natural to divide those species only into different subgenera.

A fourth and a very different mode of junction, quite sufficient for the distinction of different families, is the concrescence in pairs of every two opposite spines, lying in one diameter (in Acanthochiasma and Chiastolus). Here we obtain a number of "diametral spines" (each composed of two originally opposed radial spines) and all these diametral spines are crossed loosely near the central point of the body without any solid and permanent apposition (Chiastolida). However, in some species of this peculiar family the central part of the diametral spines is twisted like a screw or spirally convoluted (Pl. 129, figs. 2, 3).

The Form of the Radial Spines in the Acantharia is extremely varied, and constitutes the main characters for the distinction of nearly four hundred species. But all these different forms may be reduced phylogenetically to three different fundamental forms:—(a) the cylindrical (with circular transverse section), (b) the two-edged (with elliptical or lanceolate transverse section), and (c) the four-edged (with square transverse section). No doubt the first (a) is the original primitive form, from which the two others are secondarily derived. Triangular spines never occur in the Acantharia, whilst, however, they are common in the Sphærellaria. The first and original form, the cylindrical spine, is either a true cylinder of equal thickness in its whole length, or it is more or less conical. Rarely the spine is in the distal half spindle-shaped, and thicker than in the basal half. The second form, the two-edged spine, is more or less compressed from two opposite sides; its two edges are either more blunt, rounded, or more acute, sharp; its transverse section in the former case is elliptical, in the latter case lanceolate or rhomboidal. Sometimes the two edges are broader and in the form of two thin opposite wings. The two-edged spines may be occasionally shorter, triangular or lanceolate, at other times longer sword-shaped or linear. The third form, the four-edged spine, has constantly a square transverse section; the sides of this square are either even or concave; in the latter case the four edges are broadened and wing-like, but in the former case not. The quadrangular spines are either prismatic (of equal breadth throughout their whole length) or pyramidal (becoming gradually thinner towards the distal apex).

The Apex of the Radial Spines, or their free distal end, is in the majority of Acantharia simple, conical. In the minority it is either truncated or bifid, or four-sided pyramidal, often with two, rarely with four prominent parallel teeth. In some forms {723}the bifid spines are so deeply cleft that they become forked. Much more interesting and more varied than these different forms of the distal end are those of the apophyses of the radial spines.

The Apophyses of the Radial Spines, or their "lateral transverse processes," are of the greatest importance for the morphological development of the whole subclass. Only in sixteen among the sixty-five genera of Acantharia are the apophyses perfectly wanting; in the other genera they determine in the first place their general character. In the Acanthometra the apophyses remain perfectly free, whilst in the Acanthophracta their meeting ends or branches compose the latticed shell. All differences in form and shape of the apophyses can be reduced to only two primary modes; either the spine bears two opposite or four crossed apophyses; correspondingly all Acantharia apophysaria may be divided into two different main groups, the Zygapophysica (with two opposite lateral processes) and the Staurapophysica (with four crossed lateral processes opposite in pairs). Both groups have probably no direct phylogenetic connection, but seem to be derived independently from different stocks, and produce different families. The Zygapophysica are probably derived from Astrolonchida with two-edged spines (Zygacantha), and from this group arise the Diporaspida, the ancestral group of the majority of Acanthophracta. On the other hand the Staurapophysica are probably derived from Astrolonchida with four-edged spines (Acanthonia), and from this group arise the Tessaraspida. The apophyses of the Acanthonida are partly simple, partly branched or even latticed; the apophyses of the Acanthophracta are never simple, constantly branched and commonly latticed.

The Malacoma (or the whole soft body of the Acantharia as opposed to the skeleton) exhibits some peculiarities which distinguish them from the other Radiolaria, as well in the structure of the central capsule and its nucleus as in that of the enveloping extracapsular body and the pseudopodia.

The Central Capsule is constantly spherical in the far greater number of the Acantharia, viz., in the following six families:—Astrolophida, Chiastolida, Astrolonchida, Dorataspida, Sphærocapsida, and Phractopeltida. Among these six families the Astrolonchida and Dorataspida are far greater and far richer in different forms than all the other families. The central capsule becomes ellipsoidal or cylindrical, prolonged in one axis, in the three families, Amphilonchida, Belonapsida, and Diploconida; it becomes discoidal or lenticular, by the shortening of one axis, in two families, viz., in the Quadrilonchida and Hexalaspida. Finally, the peculiar family Litholophida is distinguished by the conical form of its central capsule.

The Membrane of the central capsule in all Acantharia is simple, commonly thin, sometimes very delicate; in some species it seems to be developed late, just immediately before the formation of the spores; but in no species is it completely missing. The membrane is constantly pierced by innumerable fine pores, for the emission of the {724}pseudopodia; but in many species (and probably more or less in all Acantharia) there is recognisable a certain regularity in the disposition of the numerous pseudopodia and of the pores by which they radiate from the capsule. Sometimes these pores are disposed in a regular network of ramified lines, whilst the meshes of this network are devoid of pores; in other cases they form regular tufts or bushes between the radial spines. Probably in no Acantharia are the pores of the capsule membrane so numerous and so equally distributed throughout as in the Spumellaria; we may therefore call the former Actipylea (in opposition to the latter, as Peripylea).

The Nucleus of the Acantharia is constantly excentric, whilst it is originally constantly central in the Spumellaria. This excentric position is a necessary consequence of the centrogenous development of the radial spines. Probably connected with this peculiarity is the other, that the nucleus assumes a peculiar, complicated structure, and that in the greater number of Acantharia it becomes cleft very early, and that this cleavage is effected by a peculiar kind of gemmation, first detected and very accurately described by R. Hertwig (compare his Organismus d. Radiol., 1879, pp. 10-24). However, in the young Acantharia the nucleus is constantly simple, and in a certain number of species its cleavage takes place late (as in the greater number of Spumellaria).

The Endoplasm, or the intracapsular sarcode, exhibits in the greater number of Acantharia a more or less distinct radial arrangement; but this is often concealed by the different enclosed products of the endoplasm—oil-globules, vacuoles, red or different coloured pigment-granules, crystals, &c. Often it encloses a variable number of "yellow cells" (becoming green by mineral acids) to be considered as symbiotic xanthellæ.

The Calymma or the jelly-veil, including the central capsule, in the Acantharia is more or less voluminous, and commonly envelops the skeleton perfectly. In its surface is sometimes developed a peculiar network of "supporting fibres." A very peculiar product are the remarkable "Myophrisca" of the Acanthometra, which are wanting in the Acanthophracta; they were first detected by Johannes Müller, and figured as "Cilien-Kränze," afterwards explained by Hertwig as "contractile Fäden," similar to muscular fibrillæ (compare below).

The Matrix, placed between the calymma and central capsule, in the majority of the Acantharia is a rather thin layer of granular exoplasm.

The Pseudopodia arising from it are not so numerous as in the Spumellaria, and not so equally disposed over the whole surface. Also their tendency to ramify, anastomose, and form networks seems to be much less developed. Commonly they are simple or little ramified. In many cases (and perhaps everywhere) there may be distinguished two different kinds of pseudopodia:—(1) Axopodia, or permanent pseudopodia (with axial filaments?), piercing the wall of the central capsule, and arising from the central mass of endoplasm; and (2) Collopodia, or variable pseudopodia (without axial filaments), arising outside the capsule from the matrix of extracapsular sarcode or from the {725}exoplasm on the surface of the calymma. These and other differentiations seem to indicate that the pseudopodia in the Acantharia are more highly developed than in the Spumellaria, and justify the denomination of the former as "Actipylea."

Synopsis of the Orders and Suborders of Acantharia.

Order III. ACANTHOMETRA, Johannes Müller, 1855.

Acanthometra, J. Müller, 1855, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin.

Acanthometrida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 371.

Acanthometrea, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 133.

Acanthonida et Litholophida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 465, 469.

The order Acanthometra, the third order of Radiolaria, comprises all those Acantharia in which the acanthinic skeleton is only composed of radial spines arising from one common central point, but never forms a complete latticed shell. By the absence of such a latticed or fenestrated shell the Acanthometra differ principally from the nearly allied Acanthophracta, the second order of Acantharia, which constantly possess such a complete shell.

Johannes Müller, who first detected and described the Acanthometra (in 1855, loc. cit.), defined them as follows:—"Radiolaria without shell, with siliceous radial spines" (1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 46). He described and figured eighteen species of them, disposed in four genera (Acanthometra with fifteen species, and Zygacantha, Lithophyllium, Lithoptera, each with a single species). Among those eighteen species, however, were two "Acanthometræ cataphractæ," appertaining to the following order, the Acanthophracta.

In my Monograph (1862, p. 371) all true Acanthometra were united into a single family, Acanthometrida, with the following definition:—"Skeleton composed of a number of radial spines, piercing the central capsule and united in its centre, without {726}latticed shell." In the majority of them I observed that the skeleton did not consist of silex, but of a very peculiar organic substance, which I called "acanthin." At that time I divided the family Acanthometrida into four subfamilies:—(1) Acanthostaurida, (2) Astrolithida, (3) Litholophida, (4) Acanthochiasmida. The two former now represent the suborder Acanthonida, the two latter the suborder Actinelida. The number of genera which I distinguished in my Monograph amounted to nine, the number of species to fifty. By the rich collections of the Challenger this number is so much increased that we can here describe twenty-seven genera and one hundred and sixty species.

Richard Hertwig in his work on the Organismus der Radiolarien (1879, pp. 6-25) adopted my family Acanthometrida, and gave a very accurate description of its anatomical structure. He confirmed my observations that the radial spines of this family are never hollow, but solid, and that their chemical substance is not silex, but the organic matter "acanthin." He found that the simple nucleus of the Acanthometrida is commonly very early cleft, and that the peculiar brushes of filaments on the calymma, described by Johannes Müller and by me as "Gallert-cilien," are peculiar "contractile filaments," comparable to the "muscle-fibrillæ" of some Infusoria, or the "Myophan-filaments" (Myophrisca).

The order Acanthometra is here divided into two different suborders of very unequal extent and value, the Actinelida and Acanthonida. The first may be regarded as the common ancestral stock, not only of the second, but of all Acantharia. In the small group of Actinelida the number of radial spines is variable and commonly indefinite, often very large (more than a hundred); they are therefore Adelacantha. The second suborder, the Acanthonida, comprise by far the greatest part of the order, and possess constantly twenty radial spines, regularly disposed after the Müllerian law; they are therefore (like all Acanthophracta) Icosacantha (compare above, p. 717).

The Actinelida possess constantly simple radial spines, without any apophyses; their form is commonly very simple and primitive. This suborder comprises three small but very different families, the Astrolophida, Litholophida, and Chiastolida. The first family, the Astrolophida, is the original ancestral group. A large and variable, commonly indefinite number of radial spines is here united in the centre of the spherical central capsule and radiating within a spherical space. In the second family, the Litholophida, a small and variable number of radial spines (between ten and twenty) is united in the apex of a conical central capsule and radiating within the quadrant or octant of a spherical space. In the third family, the Chiastolida, a variable number of radial spines is grown together by pairs, in such a manner that every two opposite spines (placed originally in one axis of the spherical central capsule) forms a single "diametral spine"; all these diametral spines are not united in the centre of the central capsule but only crossed loosely near the centre.

The Acanthonida, the second suborder of Acanthometra, embraces by far the greatest number in this order, viz., all those forms in which twenty radial spines are regularly disposed after the Müllerian law—Icosacantha (compare above, p. 717). The radial spines of this suborder are either simple or provided with transverse processes (either two opposite or four crossed apophyses). They are commonly united in the middle of the central capsule by their opposed basal ends, forming small pyramids; the meeting triangular faces of the neighbouring pyramids being propped one upon another. Above these small basal pyramids often arises a basal leaf-cross formed by four broad triangular leaves or wings with straight edges; the meeting thin edges of the neighbouring spines serve for strengthening the basal junction and form hollow pyramidal spaces or compartments, filled with the contents of the central capsule (compare p. 721). The suborder Acanthonida comprises three different families, the Astrolonchida, Quadrilonchida, and Amphilonchida. The first family, the Astrolonchida, comprises by far the greater number of the Acanthonida; those genera in which all twenty spines are perfectly equal or nearly equal in size and form. In the second family, the Quadrilonchida, the four equatorial spines are much larger (and often also of another form) than the sixteen other spines (often also the eight tropical larger than the eight polar spines). The third family, the Amphilonchida, is distinguished by the preponderating development of only two opposite equatorial spines, which are much larger (and often also of another form) than the eighteen other spines.

Synopsis of the Suborders and Families of Acanthometra.

Suborder I. ACTINELIDA, Haeckel, 1882.

Definition.—Acanthometra with a variable number of radial spines, which are commonly irregularly disposed, not according to the Icosacantha.

Family XXXIII. Astrolophida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Acantharia with a variable number of simple radial spines, radiating within a spherical space from one common central point which is the centre of the spherical central capsule. No lattice shell.

The family Astrolophida comprises the simplest and the most primitive forms among all Acantharia, and may therefore be regarded as the common ancestral stock of this whole legion or subclass of Radiolaria. The acanthinic skeleton is composed of a variable number of quite simple radial spines, which are united in the centre of the spherical central capsule and radiate, piercing its walls and the surrounding jelly-veil, within a spherical space.

The first observed form of this family is the ancestral genus Actinelius, two different species of which I detected in 1864 in the northern Mediterranean, at Villafranca, near Nice (compare Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., 1865, Bd. xv. p. 364, Taf. xxvi. fig. 4). Three other species of the same genus were afterwards found by me in the Challenger collections. Whilst in this Actinelius all radial spines are of the same size, a new nearly allied genus, Astrolophus (with two species), differs from it by the different size of the radial spines, a small number of very large spines being intermingled with a very large number of small spines. In these two genera, Actinelius and Astrolophus (the true "Astrolophida" sensu strictiori), the number of the radial spines is quite indeterminable and their arrangement quite irregular and variable.

A third remarkable genus, Actinastrum, differs from these two genera in the definite number and regular order of thirty-two radial spines, and may therefore perhaps better represent a peculiar family, Actinastrida. In this genus (of which two species were observed) the thirty-two radial spines are disposed in such a regular manner that they lie in four meridian planes, and that their distal ends fall into five parallel zones. These five zones and these four planes are the same as we find in all Icosacantha (compare above, p. 717). Also the constant twenty spines of these latter are present in Actinastrum; but their number is here enlarged by twelve other spines missing in the Icosacantha; four of these are secondary or interradial equatorial spines, lying opposite in pairs between the four primary or perradial equatorial spines; and eight are perradial tropical spines, lying between the eight interradial tropical spines. Therefore the {729}distal ends of the thirty-two radial spines are disposed regularly in five parallel zones, and while two zones (the two polar) contain only the points of every four spines, three zones (the single equatorial and the two tropical) contain the points of every eight spines. The four meridian planes are in Actinastrum the same as in the Icosacantha, crossed in the spineless axis at angles of 45°. But in the Icosacantha each of the two perradial meridian planes contains six radial spines (two equatorial and four polar), each of the two interradial meridian planes only four tropical spines. Whereas in Actinastrum each of the two primary or perradial meridian planes contains ten spines (two equatorial, four tropical, and four polar), each of the two secondary or interradial meridian planes six spines (two equatorial and four tropical). We find therefore altogether thirty-two radial spines in three orders; eight equatorial, sixteen tropical, and eight polar spines.

Only one other genus of Radiolaria exhibits the same characteristic disposition of thirty-two radial spines as Actinastrum, and this is Chiastolus; but here the two opposite spines of each pair are grown together and form one diametral spine; and the sixteen diametral spines are crossed in the centre of the capsule. In Actinastrum, as in Astrolophus and Actinelius, the central ends or bases of all the spines are pyramidal, and the triangular faces of the neighbouring spines rest one upon another (as in the greater number of Acanthonida). The form of the radial spines in all Astrolophida is quite simple, without lateral processes or apophyses; chiefly cylindrical, more rarely compressed, two-edged or quadrangular.

The central capsule in all Astrolophida is spherical, and in the younger specimens contains a single large concentric and lobed nucleus, but in the older specimens a large number of small nuclei. The surrounding jelly-veil or calymma seems commonly to envelop the spines perfectly. The piercing pseudopodia radiate everywhere between the spines, and are very numerous and thin. The circulating granules in them are sometimes red (Actinelius purpureus).

Synopsis of the Genera of Astrolophida.

Genus 317. Actinelius,^[357] Haeckel, 1865, Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xv. p. 364.

Definition.—Astrolophida with a variable and undetermined number of simple radial spines, all of equal size, united in the centre of the spherical central capsule.

The genus Actinelius comprises the most simple and primitive forms among all Acantharia, and may be regarded as the common ancestral stock of this whole legion. The spherical central capsule is pierced by numerous simple radial spines of equal size, the pyramidal bases of which are supported one upon another with their triangular faces in the centre of the capsule. The number and position of the spines are quite indefinite and variable. We may derive Actinelius either from Actissa (Colloidea) by development of acanthinic radial spines, or directly from Actinosphærium (Heliozoa) by formation of a central capsule.

Subgenus 1. Actinelarium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines cylindrical, conical, or spindle-shaped, their transverse section circular.

Spines sixty to eighty or more, cylindrical, at the distal end thickened, spindle-shaped. Apex simple. Base a small slender pyramid. Central capsule yellow. Granules of the sarcode colourless.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, breadth in the distal part 0.02, in the basal part 0.008.

Actinelius purpureus, Haeckel, 1865, Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xv. p. 364, Taf. xxvi. fig. 4.

Spines thirty to forty or more, cylindrical, very thin, a little thinner towards both ends. Apex simple. Base a small sulcate pyramid. Central capsule opaque, purple. Granules of the sarcode also purple.

Subgenus 2. Actinelidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines compressed, two-edged; their transverse section elliptical or lanceolate.

Spines fifty to sixty, compressed, two-edged, gradually broadened towards the truncated distal end. Basal or proximal end thin, pyramidal. The spines of this species are similar to those of {731}Actinastrum pentazonium (p. 733) and of Chiastolus amphicopium (Pl. 129, fig. 3), but much more numerous, smaller, and not regularly disposed. These latter two Actinelida must be separated on account of the regular disposition of the thirty-two spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2, basal breadth 0.008, distal breadth 0.02.

Subgenus 3. Actinelonium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines quadrangular, prismatic, or pyramidal, their transverse section square.

Actinelius pallidus, Haeckel, 1865, Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xv. p. 364.

Spines eighty to one hundred and twenty or more, quadrangular, prismatic, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex simple, truncate or pyramidal. Base a four-sided slender pyramid. Central capsule pale yellowish. Granules of the sarcode colourless.

Spines two hundred to three hundred or more, quadrangular, pyramidal, gradually thinned towards the simple apex. Base a small three-sided pyramid. Central capsule opaque.

Genus 318. Astrolophus,^[358] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 469.

Definition.—Astrolophida with a variable and undetermined number of simple radial spines of different sizes (large and small spines intermingled), which are united in the centre of the spherical central capsule.

The genus Astrolophus differs from the nearly allied ancestral genus Actinelius only in the unequal size of the numerous radial spines. In both observed species very numerous small spines are intermingled with a small number of large spines, and between them numerous spines of medium size. The small spines fill up the hollow spaces between the basal parts of the large spines.

Radial spines from one hundred to two hundred, of very different sizes, but of similar form; about sixteen to twenty very large spines, forty to fifty of medium size, and one hundred to one hundred and twenty much smaller. All spines cylindrical in the greater part of their length, with simple apex, gradually thickened towards the central part, conical, without edges. The base itself is a slender pyramid with four to eight edges.

Dimensions.—Length of the largest spines 0.3 to 0.4, of the majority 0.1 to 0.2, of the smallest 0.05 to 0.1.

Radial spines from two hundred to three hundred, of very different sizes, but of similar form; about twenty to thirty very large spines, sixty to eighty of medium size, and one hundred and twenty to one hundred and fifty much smaller. All spines cylindrical in the greater part of their length, with simple apex, gradually thickened and four-edged towards the central base. The base itself is a slender pyramid with four to eight edges; partly the faces, partly the edges of these basal pyramids rest one upon another, the points of the larger spines meeting in the centre.

Dimensions.—Length of the largest spines 0.4 to 0.5, of the majority 0.2 to 0.3, of the smallest 0.1 to 0.16; basal thickness of the largest spines 0.015.

Genus 319. Actinastrum,^[359] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrolophida with thirty-two simple radial spines, regularly disposed within four meridian planes in such an order that their distal ends fall into five parallel zones. Central ends of the thirty-two spines supported one upon another in the centre of the spherical central capsule.

The genus Actinastrum differs from the two preceding genera in the definite number and order of the thirty-two radial spines, which are disposed in a very remarkable manner. Twenty radial spines are disposed after the Müllerian law of Icosacantha (compare above, p. 717). The remaining twelve spines are four equatorial spines lying in the two secondary meridian planes, and eight tropical spines lying in the two primary meridian planes. We have therefore together eight equatorial, sixteen tropical, and eight polar spines (compare above, p. 729).

All thirty-two radial spines of equal size and similar form, cylindrical, conical at the distal end, at the central base pyramidal. Central capsule pellucid, colourless.

All thirty-two radial spines of equal size and similar form, compressed, two-edged, gradually becoming broader and thinner from the pyramidal central base towards the truncated distal end. Central capsule dark, opaque. (Compare the similar Chiastolus amphicopium, Pl. 129, fig. 3.)

Dimensions.—Length of the radial spines 0.2, breadth at the base 0.005, at the distal end 0.02.

Family XXXIV. Litholophida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Acantharia with a variable number of simple radial spines radiating within a conical space (or within the quadrant of a sphere) from one common central point, which is the apex of the conical central capsule. No lattice-shell.

The family Litholophida, represented only by a single genus, Litholophus, differs from all other Acantharia in the remarkable fact that the common point, from which the radial spines arise, is not the geometrical central point of the whole body, but is quite excentric in position, the apex of the conical or pyramidal central capsule. Therefore the spines form together a kind of brush or broom.

When I founded the family Litholophida in my Monograph (1862, p. 401) I knew only a single species, Litholophus rhipidium, observed very frequently in Messina. Another species, Litholophus ligurinus, was afterwards (1864) found by me at Nice. Six other species were detected in the preparations of the Challenger, some of them very frequent. All these eight species of Litholophus are very nearly allied, and exhibit only slight differences in the form and number of the radial spines; their mode of excentric connection and the structure of the peculiar soft body is everywhere the same.

The radial spines in all observed Litholophida possess the form of the genus Acanthonia, i.e., they are quite simple, four-sided prismatic or quadrangular, with square transverse section; their four edges are sometimes smooth, at other times elegantly denticulate, commonly more or less prominent or wing-shaped. In the greater number of species they are very long and of nearly equal breadth, prismatic; in some species they are more pyramidal, thinned towards the distal end; the latter {734}is commonly truncated or broken off, sometimes pyramidal. The central end is everywhere thinned, more or less pyramidal, and the neighbouring spines are propped one upon another by the triangular faces of their small basal pyramids. A slight pressure is sufficient to destroy their connection.

The number and disposition of the radial spines seem to be variable and irregular, but require further researches. In four of the observed eight species I found constantly ten spines, in two other species from ten to twenty (commonly twelve or sixteen), and in two species twenty or more. A certain order or disposition of the spines within the conical space in which they radiate could nowhere be ascertained.

When I first observed Litholophus, I supposed that it might only be a mutilated or altered form of an Acanthonia. Afterwards, observing many specimens with ten spines, I was led to the suggestion that they were produced by self-division of an Acanthonia, and that the number of the spines in each half of the body might be afterwards doubled. But this suggestion seems to be refuted by the fact that in no other genus of the numerous Acantharia is self-division observed, and that many hundreds of Litholophus which I observed exhibit quite constantly only a single form of radial spines, that of Acanthonia—simple quadrangular spines without any apophyses.

Genus 320. Litholophus,^[360] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 401.

Definition.—Litholophida with a variable number of quadrangular diverging radial spines, united with pyramidal bases in the apex of the conical central capsule.

The genus Litholophus, the only one of this family, exhibits the peculiarities just described, but might more nearly be defined as a typical "genus" by the quadrangular form of the radial spines, identical with those of Acanthonia.

The central capsule of Litholophus is constantly conical or pyramidal, commonly opaque, of a dark brownish or reddish colour; it contains many small nuclei. It envelops the basal half of all radial spines in such a manner that their basal parts are united in its apex, and their distal parts pierce the rounded base of the conical capsule (Pl. 129, fig. 2).

The calymma or the jelly envelope of the central capsule is only developed at its base, where the spines radiate; at the conical mantle of the capsule it is very thin. The spines seem to be perfectly enclosed in the calymma and connected with it by the same contractile retinacula or "myophrisca" which we observe in the Acanthonida. The pseudopodia arise only from the rounded base of the conical capsule, and radiate between the spines, piercing the calymma, diverging within the conical space occupied by the fascicle of spines.

Subgenus 1. Litholopharium, Haeckel.

Ten radial spines, four-sided prismatic, with prominent smooth edges, of equal breadth throughout their whole length.

Ten radial spines, four-sided pyramidal, with prominent smooth edges, gradually thickened from the small pyramidal base towards the truncated distal end.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, breadth in the basal part 0.002, in the middle part 0.006, in the distal part 0.012 to 0.02.

Ten radial spines, four-sided prismatic, with prominent, elegantly denticulated edges, of equal breadth in their whole length.

Ten radial spines, four-winged pyramidal, with broad and thin, elegantly denticulated edges, gradually thickened from the small pyramidal base towards the truncated distal end.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth in the basal part 0.002, in the middle part 0.005, in the distal part 0.015.

Subgenus 2. Litholophidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Number of the radial spines variable, between ten and twenty, commonly twelve to sixteen.

Litholophus ligurinus, Haeckel, 1865, Zeitschr. f. wiss. Zool., Bd. xv. p. 366.

Spines of variable number, from eleven to twenty, commonly twelve to sixteen, four-sided prismatic, with smooth thin edges, of equal breadth in their whole length or a little thinner towards the proximal end.

Litholophus rhipidium, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 402, Taf. xix. fig. 6.

Spines of variable number, from eleven to twenty, commonly twelve to sixteen, four-sided prismatic, with distantly denticulated edges, of equal breadth in their whole length or a little thinner towards both ends.

Subgenus 3. Litholophonium, Haeckel.

Spines constantly (?) twenty, four-sided prismatic, with smooth prominent edges, nearly of equal breadth throughout their whole length.

Spines constantly twenty (or more?), four-sided prismatic, with distantly denticulated edges, gradually thickened from the small pyramidal base to the middle part, of equal breadth in the distal half.

Family XXXV. Chiastolida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Acantharia with a variable number of simple radial spines, which are grown together in pairs (two opposite spines of each pair representing together a single diametral spine). Diametral spines crossed loosely in the centre of the spherical or irregular roundish central capsule. No lattice-shell.

The family Chiastolida (or Acanthochiasmida) differs from all other Acantharia in the peculiar mode of the radial spines; these grown together in pairs in the centre of the body, so that every two spines opposite in one axis of the body form together one single diametral spine. All diametral spines are loosely crossed in the middle of the central capsule, or connected by a peculiar screw-like winding, but not united firmly.

I established the family Acanthochiasmida in my Monograph (1862, p. 402) upon the single genus Acanthochiasma (with three species), in which only ten diametral spines are constantly found; I derived these from the twenty radial spines of the common Acanthometra, supposing that every two opposite spines of the latter (lying in one axis) were grown together in the centre, whilst the intimate connection of the twenty radial spines in the common centre was dissolved. This opinion was afterwards confirmed by Richard Hertwig, who observed Acanthochiasma intact in the living state. Although two species of this genus are cosmopolitan and very common, the number of species is very small; I could add to those three older known forms only a single new species.

Another genus of this family, Chiastolus, was observed by me only in a single specimen but it is extremely interesting. It has sixteen diametral spines, disposed quite regularly after the same law of the thirty-two spines of Actinastrum which we described above (compare above, p. 729). Therefore we cannot doubt that the former is derived from the latter in the same way, every two opposite radial spines (of one axis) being grown together to form a single diametral spine. As we place Acanthometron (with twenty spines) and Actinastrum (with thirty-two spines) in two different families, it would perhaps be more convenient to separate also Acanthochiasma and Chiastolus as representatives of two different families—Acanthochiasmida (with ten diametral spines) and Chiastolida (with sixteen diametral spines).

As we derive Acanthochiasma from Acanthometron by concrescence in pairs of the twenty radial spines, the Müllerian law of Icosacantha must be employed also to the ten diametral spines of the former, therefore two of them are equatorial, four tropical, and four polar spines. In the same way we may employ the new law of disposition found in the thirty-two radial spines of Actinastrum equally to the sixteen diametral spines of Chiastolus, which we derive from the former, four of them are equatorial, eight tropical, and four polar spines (compare above, p. 732).

The Central Capsule of the Chiastolida is spherical, and exhibits in general the same shape as in the Acanthonida, and specially in the Astrolonchida. Of course every diametral spine pierces the capsule twice, at two points diametrically opposed. In some species of Acanthochiasma the central capsule is formed very late, so that it seems often to be absent. A very accurate description of the capsule and its nucleus, as well as of the calymma and the pseudopodia, is given by Richard Hertwig in his Organismus der Radiolarien (1879, pp. 10-18). The pseudopodia are very numerous, and sometimes bear reddish granules.

Synopsis of the Genera of Chiastolida.

Genus 321. Chiastolus,^[361] n. gen.

Definition.—Chiastolida with sixteen diametral spines, derived from thirty-two radial spines opposite and grown together in pairs.

The genus Chiastolus, hitherto known only by a single observed specimen, comprises the Chiastolida with sixteen diametral spines, which are loosely crossed in the centre of the body. Four of these spines are equatorial, four polar, and eight tropical. We derive Chiastolus from Actinastrum by concrescence of every two opposite spines in one axis of the body (compare above, pp. 729, 732).

Spines in the central part cylindrical, spirally convoluted in a very peculiar manner, broadened towards both ends, strongly compressed, two-edged; the broadest parts are the two truncated distal ends, five to seven times as broad as the thinnest central part, which is placed between two spindle-shaped intumescences. These cochleary central parts of the sixteen spines seem to be resting one upon another. Each spine (composed of two opposite equal radial spines) has nearly the form of a double oar. The single observed specimen (preserved in glycerine) exhibited a most regular disposition of the thirty-two spines (grown together in pairs in the centre). The diameter of the dark non-transparent spherical central capsule equalled one-fifth to one-fourth of the total length of the double spines. When the soft parts of the body were destroyed by sulphuric acid, the sixteen single spines were suddenly dispersed.

Dimensions.—Length of the sixteen double spines 0.5, distal breadth (of the truncated ends) 0.05, central breadth 0.01; diameter of the central capsule 0.12.

Genus 322. Acanthochiasma,^[362] Krohn, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 810.

Definition.—Chiastolida with ten diametral spines, derived from twenty radial spines opposite and grown together in pairs.

The genus Acanthochiasma with a small number of common species, comprises the Chiastolida with ten diametral spines, which are loosely crossed in the centre of the body. I could distinguish only four species, two of which are cosmopolitan and very widely distributed. In all four species the diametral spines are quite simple, cylindrical; only in one species distinguished by a spiral winding or torsion in the middle part, where they are crossed one to another. We derive Acanthochiasma from Acanthometron by concrescence of every two spines opposite in one axis of the body.

Acanthochiasma krohnii, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p.403, Taf. xix. fig. 7.

Acanthochiasma krohnii, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., Taf. ii. fig. 6.

Spines needle-shaped, cylindrical, very thin and long, of equal breadth in their whole length, distinguished by a high degree of elasticity. Central capsule colourless or yellowish-white, transparent. Granules of the sarcode colourless.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, very common.

Acanthochiasma rubescens, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 403.

Spines cylindrical, of equal breadth in their whole length, not very elastic, pointed at the two ends. Central capsule intransparent, reddish, with violin-shaped concretions. Granules of the sarcode red coloured.

Acanthochiasma fusiforme, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 404, Taf. xix. fig. 8.

Spines spindle-shaped, from the thicker central part thinned towards the two thin conical ends, perfectly straight and smooth, rigid, inelastic. Central capsule non-transparent, brown.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.5, breadth in the central part 0.006 to 0.009.

Spines spindle-shaped, tapering from the thicker central part towards the two thin conical ends, rigid, inelastic; their central part is spirally convoluted in a very peculiar cochlea-like manner, as in Chiastolus amphicopium (Pl. 129, figs. 3a, 3b). The ten spines are propped one upon another by the central screw. Central capsule dark, opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth of the central spiral part 0.01.

Suborder II. ACANTHONIDA, Haeckel (Pls. 130-132).

Definition.—Acanthometra with twenty radial spines, disposed according to the Müllerian or Icosacanthan law in five zones each of four spines.

Family XXXVI. Astrolonchida, Haeckel (Pl. 130).

Definition.—Acanthometra with twenty radial spines of nearly equal size and similar form, disposed according to the law of the Icosacantha. No lattice-shell.

The family Astrolonchida, the first and oldest of the Acanthonida, is no doubt the ancestral stock not only of this suborder but also all Acanthophracta, i.e., of all Icosacantha or all Acantharia in which twenty radial spines are regularly disposed according to the Müllerian law, forming five zones each of four alternating spines (compare above, p. 717). The Astrolonchida differ from the Acanthophracta in the absence of a complete lattice-shell, from the other two families of Acanthonida (the Quadrilonchida and Amphilonchida) in the equal size and similar form of all the spines. Probably this equality is nowhere quite perfect, since in all Icosacantha the central bases of the twenty spines exhibit originally certain slight differences of form and junction, effected by the regular disposition itself. But setting aside this slight difference, only recognisable by means of a very accurate investigation of the central junction (and in thinner spines often not at all recognisable), the twenty spines of the Astrolonchida appear perfectly equal. Therefore the four equatorial spines are not distinguished from the sixteen other spines, as is constantly the case in the two following families.

The number of genera (eleven) and of species (seventy-six) in the Astrolonchida is far larger than in the five other families of Acanthometra, and requires a distinction into three different subfamilies. (A) In the Zygacanthida the form of the radial spines is quite simple, without apophyses or transverse processes; (B) in the Phractacanthida each spine bears two opposite apophyses (rarely two longitudinal rows of these opposite apophyses); (C) in the Stauracanthida each spine bears a cross of four apophyses, opposite in pairs (rarely four longitudinal crossed rows of apophyses, opposite in pairs). The Phractacanthida and Stauracanthida appear as two divergent branches of the pedigree, derived independently from the common ancestral stock of Zygacanthida.

In the Zygacanthida, constantly devoid of apophyses, we can distinguish only three genera, characterised by the different fundamental form of the radial spines; these are:—(1) Acanthometron, with cylindrical or conical spines (without edges); (2) Zygacantha, with compressed and two-edged spines; (3) Acanthonia, with four-edged, prismatic or pyramidal spines. The transverse section of the spines is in the first case {741}circular, in the second elliptical or lanceolate, in the third square. All the different forms of spines, which we find in the numerous Acantharia, may be reduced to these three forms, and among these the second and third are derived from the first.

The development of apophyses or of lateral transverse processes (wanting in the Zygacanthida) is of the greatest value for the further differentiation of the Acantharia. For from the Phractacanthida (with two opposite apophyses on each spine) we must derive the Phrastaspida, the common ancestral stock of the Diporaspida (and therefore also the Belonaspida, Hexalaspida, Diploconida, and Phractopeltida). On the other hand the Stauracanthida (with four crossed apophyses on each spine) have produced the Stauraspida, or the ancestral group of the Tessaraspida and Sphærocapsida. From all these Acanthophracta, possessing a complete lattice-shell, the Astrolonchida differ in the absence of such a complete shell. Also in the few cases in which the apophyses become latticed (Doracantha among the Phractacanthida, and Phatnacantha among the Stauracanthida), the lattice-plates of the neighbouring spines never meet with their edges, as is the case in all Acanthophracta. But in a phylogenetic as well as in an ontogenetic sense the former are the ancestral stock of the latter.

The Central Capsule in the Astrolonchida is commonly spherical, sometimes with twenty roundish elevations or conical papillæ, extending radially to the basal half of the radial spines. The calymma is voluminous, and forms around the radial spines conical or cylindrical "jelly-sheaths," which are connected with the spines by coronas of Myophrisca (or of the bodies formerly called "Gallert-cilien," afterwards recognised as "contractile Filamente").

Synopsis of the Genera of Astrolonchida.

Subfamily 1. Zygacanthida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with twenty simple radial spines, without apophyses or lateral transverse processes.

Genus 323. Acanthometron,^[363] J. Müller, 1855, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 229.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with simple cylindrical or needle-shaped radial spines, without edges and without apophyses; their transverse section is circular.

The genus Acanthometron, with the restricted definition here given, is the most simple form of all Acanthonida, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form not only of this suborder but also of all Acanthophracta, in general of all Icosacantha, or all Acantharia in which twenty radial spines are regularly disposed after the Müllerian law (p. 717). In the wider sense, given originally to Acanthometra by Johannes Müller, its discoverer, this genus comprised all Acantharia constituting here our order "Acanthometra" (Radiolaria without lattice-shell, with radial spines united in the centre). In my Monograph (1862, p. 375) I restricted this genus to those "Acanthometrida" in which twenty simple spines of equal size (and without apophyses) are supported one upon another in the centre, and I separated as Astrolithium those forms in which they are grown together in the centre. But this difference now appears not so important, and I restrict here the genus Acanthometron (not Acanthometra) to those most simple forms in which the simple radial spines are cylindrical or conical, without edges.

Subgenus 1. Acanthometrella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines at the central base without leaf-cross, united by the opposed triangular faces of their pyramidal bases, resting one upon another.

Acanthometra elastica, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 376, Taf. xv. fig. 1, Taf. xviii. fig. 1.

Acanthometra elastica, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., Taf. i. figs. 2, 2a, 2b.

Spines cylindrical, very thin and long, needle-shaped, at the central base four-sided pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Distal apex conical. The spines are very elastic, of nearly equal thickness in their whole length. Central capsule quite pellucid, colourless, with a variable number of yellow pigment-bodies (xanthellæ?).

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan, very common in all warmer seas; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, surface.

Spines cylindrical, thick and long, at the central base thickened with a pear-shaped knob, and with very small central fulcral pyramid, without leaf-cross. Distal apex rounded or truncated. Central capsule opaque, filled with red pigment-bodies.

Acanthometra fusca, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 47, Taf. xi. fig. 4.

Acanthometra fusca, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol, p. 377.

Spines very thin and long, in the proximal half cylindrical, in the distal half conical, gradually thinned towards the simple conical apex. Central base a small four-sided pyramid, without leaf-cross. Central capsule opaque, filled with brown pigment-bodies.

Acanthometra bulbosa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 377, Taf. xv. fig. 2, Taf. xviii fig. 2.

Spines very thin and long, cylindrical, with simple needle-shaped apex; in the basal part conical, towards the centre much thickened, with a short four-sided fulcral pyramid, without leaf-cross. Central capsule opaque, filled with brown pigment-bodies.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.5, breadth in the middle and outer part 0.001, in the basal part 0.008 to 0.012.

Acanthometra dolichoscia, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 377, Taf. xviii. figs. 3a, 3b.

Spines very long and thin, cylindrical, in the thickened outer half about twice as thick as in the thin inner half, at the simple apex compressed, two-edged. Central base little thickened, with a small four-sided pyramid, without leaf-cross. Central capsule transparent, whitish or yellowish.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.6 to 0.8, breadth in the proximal part 0.004, in the distal part 0.008.

Spines short and thick, conical, gradually thinner from the thick conical base towards the simple apex. Central part of the base with a large fulcral pyramid, but without leaf-cross. Central capsule transparent, colourless (?).

Acanthometra pellucida, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 47, Taf. xi. figs. 1-3.

Acanthometra pellucida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 378.

Spines cylindrical, very thin and long, needle-shaped, nearly of equal thickness in their whole length. Central base with a small fulcral pyramid, without leaf-cross. Distal apex bifid or bifurcate, with two thin parallel teeth. Central capsule pellucid, colourless, with yellow pigment-bodies. (Differs from Acanthometron elasticum mainly in the bifid apex.)

Acanthometra wageneri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 378.

Spines cylindrical, in the thickened outer half about twice as broad as in the thin inner half. Central base a little thickened, with large fulcral pyramid, but without leaf-cross. Distal apex bifid, with two divergent, often denticulated teeth. Central capsule pellucid, with yellow pigment-bodies. (Differs from Acanthometron dolichoscion mainly in the bifid apex.)

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.5, breadth in the inner part 0.003, in the outer 0.006.

Subgenus 2. Phyllostaurus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 381.

Definition.—Spines at the central base with a broad leaf-cross, composed of four prominent triangular lamellæ; the meeting edges of the neighbouring lamellæ are propped one upon another in such a manner that there are formed twenty-two hollow pyramidal spaces or compartments (compare p. 721).

Acanthometra sicula, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 382, Taf. xvii. figs. 1, 2; Taf. xviii. fig. 8.

Spines elongate, conical, tapering gradually from the thick base towards the simple distal apex. Conical circular base supported by a basal leaf-cross of double the breadth. Central capsule yellowish-brown, opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, basal breadth 0.008 to 0.012, leaf-cross 0.024.

Acanthometra brevispina, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 382, Taf. xv. fig. 5, Taf. xviii. fig. 9.

Spines cylindrical, nearly of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex either simple, conical, or bifid. Base with a large leaf-cross, four to six times as broad as the spine itself. Central capsule transparent, yellow. The Atlantic specimens have much longer spines than those figured from the Mediterranean, but are otherwise not different. Therefore I have changed the inconvenient name brevispinum into catervatum.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.1 to 0.3, breadth 0.005 to 0.008; basal leaf-cross 0.02 to 0.032.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina); North Atlantic, Station 354, Gulf Stream (Færöe Channel) in great abundance, John Murray, surface.

Subgenus 3. Astrolithium, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 810.

Definition.—Spines in the basal part grown perfectly together, so that the whole skeleton forms a single piece of acanthin; a star with twenty equal rays.

Astrolithium bulbiferum, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 466.

Spines needle-shaped, cylindrical, very thin and long, with simple apex; suddenly thickened and forming a broad regular cone at the central base; all twenty conical bulbs have their broad bases grown together and forming a central icosahedron of acanthin; from its twenty faces arise the circular bases of the cones in regular disposition.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.5, breadth 0.001 to 0.003; height of the basal cones 0.06, basal breadth of them 0.02.

Astrolithium bifidum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 400, Taf. xx. fig. 5.

Spines needle-shaped, cylindrical, of equal breadth in their whole length. Distal apex bifid, with two parallel straight teeth. Central bases of all twenty spines grown perfectly together and forming a central sphere of acanthin. Central capsule brown opaque.

Genus 324. Zygacantha,^[364] J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 51.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with simple, compressed, and two-edged radial spines, without apophyses; their transverse section is elliptical or rhomboidal.

The genus Zygacantha comprised in the original definition of J. Müller only a single species, Zygacantha furcata, distinguished from the other Acanthometra by forked spines with two long parallel teeth. It seems now advisable to unite in this genus all those Astrolonchida in which the simple spines are two-edged, compressed, or leaf-shaped. The term Zygacantha may be conceived as the general expression of the important fact, that in all Icosacantha the twenty spines are opposite in pairs.

Subgenus 1. Zygacantharium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines at the central base without leaf-cross and without hollow pyramidal compartments, united by the opposed triangular faces of their pyramidal bases, resting one upon another.

Acanthometra lanceolata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 48, Taf. xi. fig. 12.

Acanthometra lanceolata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 380.

Spines lanceolate, from the broader middle part equally thinned towards the two ends. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Each flat lamellar spine exhibits an elevated middle rib (like a lanceolate leaf), and is therefore compressed quadrangular.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.1 to 0.15, greatest breadth (in the width) 0.03 to 0.04.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Saint Tropez, French shore), J. Müller; North Atlantic (Canary Islands), Haeckel, surface.

Spines compressed, two-edged, linear, of nearly equal breadth in their whole length. Apex truncate. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Each flat lamellar spine exhibits an elevated middle rib, which in the distal half is cleft into two divergent rods ending in the corners of the truncated apex. (Similar to Zygacantha dicopa, but with broader free spines, which are not grown together in the centre.)

Acanthometra compressa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 378, Taf. xviii. figs. 4a, 4b.

Spines in the proximal half compressed, broad lanceolate, four to six times as broad as in the thin cylindrical distal half. Apex simple or short bifid. Base pyramidal, thickened, without leaf-cross. No middle rib. Central capsule opaque, yellowish or reddish-brown.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.5, breadth of the inner half 0.015 to 0.02, of the outer half 0.002 to 0.003.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina); Atlantic (Canary Islands), Station 352, surface.

Zygacantha furcata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 51, Taf. ix. fig. 6.

Acanthometra furcata, J. Müller, 1856, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 499.

Acanthometra furcata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 380.

Spines compressed, fork-shaped, divided by two thickened knots into three sections of nearly equal length; middle section broader than the proximal, but smaller than the distal section, which is cleft by a deep fissure into two long parallel straight branches. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Central capsule purple, with yellow bodies.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.1 to 0.15, basal breadth 0.003 to 0.005, distal breadth 0.02 to 0.03.

Subgenus 2. Zygacanthidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines at the central base with a cross of four prominent leaves; the meeting edges of the neighbouring lamellæ so rest one upon another that twenty-two hollow pyramidal compartments are formed (compare p. 721).

Zygacantha dichotoma, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 381.

Acanthometra dichotoma, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 50, Taf. ix. fig. 5.

Spines compressed, pincer-shaped, cleft nearly throughout their whole length into two thin parallel straight rods or fork branches, which are united only in their middle by a narrow bridge, and at their central base by the pyramidal small central apex; above this pyramid each rod is divided into two broad triangular leaves, forming a large basal leaf-cross. Central capsule purple, with yellow bodies.

Spines compressed, two-edged, linear, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex bifid. Base thickened, with a large leaf-cross. (Similar to Amphilonche complanata, but different in the equal size of all twenty spines, which are somewhat broader.)

Acanthometra hemicompressa, Car, 1884, Zool. Anzeiger, p. 94, with woodcut.

Spines in the proximal half compressed, two-edged, linear, three to four times as broad as in the needle-shaped cylindrical distal half. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, with a small leaf-cross. Central capsule transparent.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.1 to 0.2, breadth in the proximal half 0.02, in the distal half 0.006.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Genoa), Haeckel; Adriatic Sea (Trieste), Car, surface.

Spines lanceolate, tapering from the broader middle part towards the two ends, with two dentated or serrated edges and a prominent middle rib. Apex simple. Base with a small leaf-cross. The spines like the leaves of Agave americana.

Subgenus 3. Zygacanthonium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines in the centre grown perfectly together and forming a single star-shaped piece of acanthin.

Astrolithium dicopum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 400, Taf. xx. figs. 3, 4.

Spines compressed, two-edged, linear, of nearly equal breadth throughout their whole length, with a prominent middle rib, which in the distal third is cleft into two divergent teeth, ending in the two corners of the broad, obliquely truncated apex. All twenty spines with their central bases grown together and forming one single piece of acanthin—a star with twenty rays.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Pacific, many Stations, surface.

Genus 325. Acanthonia,^[365] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 465.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with simple, four-edged, prismatic or pyramidal radial spines, without apophyses; their transverse section is square.

The genus Acanthonia comprises all those Astrolonchida (formerly united with Acanthometron) in which the simple spines either in their whole length or in the greatest part of it are four-edged, with square transverse section. They are sometimes more prismatic (with equal breadth), at other times more pyramidal (with decreasing breadth towards the distal apex). If Acanthometron be the common simple ancestral form of the Acanthonida, then the two-edged Zygacantha, and the four-edged Acanthonia may be regarded as two divergent main lines arising from it; the former leading to the Phractacanthida and Diporaspida, the latter leading to the Stauracanthida and Tessaraspida.

Subgenus 1. Acanthonarium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines at the central base, without leaf-cross and without hollow pyramidal compartments, united by the triangular faces of their pyramidal bases, resting one upon another.

Acanthometra tetracopa, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 47, Taf. vii. figs. 3 to 5, Taf. xi. fig. 5.

Acanthometra tetracopa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 379, Taf. xviii. fig. 5.

Spines quadrangular prismatic, with prominent lamellar edges, of equal breadth in their whole length. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Apex truncated, or with four short teeth (sometimes only two teeth). Central capsule opaque, brown or yellow.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, many Stations, surface.

Spines quadrangular prismatic, without prominent edges, with four plane lateral faces, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Apex truncate, with square apical face.

Spines quadrangular prismatic, with prominent elegantly denticulated edges, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Both ends pyramidal, without leaf-cross. (Similar to Amphilonche denticulata, but with the twenty spines all equal, and with spherical central capsule.)

Acanthometra mülleri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 379, Taf. xv. fig. 3, Taf. xviii. fig. 6.

Spines quadrangular, nearly prismatic, but tapering gradually from the pyramidal base towards the distal bifid apex, which bears two thin, parallel, or little divergent teeth; four edges elegantly denticulated; base without leaf-cross. Central capsule yellowish or reddish.

Acanthometra fragilis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 380, Taf. xv. fig. 4, Taf. xviii. fig. 7.

Spines quadrangular, nearly prismatic, but gradually thickened from the pyramidal base towards the distal truncated end; four edges regularly denticulated; base without leaf-cross. Central capsule opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.5 and more, basal breadth 0.002 to 0.003, distal breadth 0.008 to 0.016 or more.

Spines quadrangular, with four broad lamellar, convex, prominent edges, which from the broader middle part are thinned towards the two emarginated ends; each end with a small quadrangular pyramid, without leaf-cross. All the twenty spines of this species exhibit nearly the same form, which is seen in the caudal or posterior (geotomical) spine of Amphilonche anomala (Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xviii. fig. 23, b).

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.12 to 0.16, breadth in the middle part 0.02 to 0.025.

Spines quadrangular, with four broad lamellar, concave, prominent edges, which from the smaller middle part are broadened towards the two emarginated ends; each end with a small {751}quadrangular pyramid, without leaf-cross. All the twenty spines of this species exhibit nearly the same form, which is seen in the frontal or anterior (hydrotomical) spine of Amphilonche anomala (Monogr. d. Radiol., Taf. xviii. fig. 23, a).

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.15, breadth in the middle part 0.012, on both ends 0.025.

Spines quadrangular prismatic, with smooth prominent straight edges, but of very different breadth in both halves; the inner or proximal half (inside the central capsule) twice to four times as broad as the outer or distal half (outside the central capsule); both ends suddenly separated by a constriction, in which is inserted the membrane of the capsule. The latter is pellucid, with a number of yellow bodies. Apex of the spines simple, base pyramidal, without leaf-cross.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.4, breadth of the basal half 0.01, of the distal half 0.002 to 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Acanthonidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines at the central base with a broad leaf-cross, composed of four prominent triangular lamellæ; the meeting edges of these crossed lamellæ between every three or four neighbouring spines so rest one upon another that twenty-two hollow pyramidal compartments are formed (compare p. 721).

Acanthometra echinoides, Claparède et Lachmann, 1858, Études sur les Infusoires et les Rhizopodes, &c., p. 459, pl. xxiii. figs. 1-5.

Acanthometra echinoides, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 383.

Spines quadrangular prismatic without prominent edges, with four plane lateral faces, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Central base three to four times as broad, with large leaf-cross. Apex truncated or bifid (sometimes with four short teeth).

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.5, breadth 0.004 to 0.008; leaf-cross 0.02 to 0.03.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, west coast of Norway (Claparède et Lachmann); Færöe Channel (Gulf Stream), John Murray, surface.

Acanthometra claparedei, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 383, Taf. xviii. fig. 12.

Spines quadrangular prismatic, with four prominent lamellar edges, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex bifid. Central base twice as broad, with large leaf-cross. Central capsule opaque, reddish-brown.

Acanthometra cuspidata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 383, Taf. xviii. fig. 11.

Spines quadrangular pyramidal, with four prominent lamellar edges, tapering gradually from the broad base towards the simple distal apex. Basal leaf-cross as broad, with a small central pyramid.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.5, basal breadth 0.012; leaf-cross 0.025.

Acanthometra quadrifolia, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 382, Taf. xviii. fig. 10.

Spines in the basal part quadrangular pyramidal, with four prominent lamellar edges and a large basal leaf-cross; in the distal part three to six times as long, cylindrical, of equal breadth. Apex simple, conical, or bifid. Central capsule yellow or whitish. This common species differs from the nearly allied Acanthometron catervatum mainly by the strong development of the large basal leaves or wings.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.5, breadth in the distal half 0.002, in the basal part 0.02.

Habitat.—Mediterranean; North Atlantic, Stations 252 to 254; Færöe Channel, Gulf Stream, in enormous numbers, John Murray, surface and at various depths.

Spines formed like a quadrangular double pyramid or an irregular octahedron; the basal leaf-cross being extremely developed, with four very large and thin lamellar leaves; the basal halves of the twenty double pyramids are united by the meeting edges of those leaves, while their distal halves are free, with simple apices. Therefore the four triangular leaves of each spine are equally thinned from the middle towards the two ends.

Acanthometra multispina, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 47, Taf. vii. figs. 6-9.

Acanthometra multispina, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 384.

Spines quadrangular, with four lamellar prominent edges, in the proximal half nearly prismatic, in the distal half pyramidal; both halves separated by a prominent short tooth on each edge. Here in the middle part the breadth (including the four teeth) is equal to the basal leaf-cross. Central capsule opaque, brown.

Spines quadrangular pyramidal, with simple apex; the large basal leaf-cross nearly half as long as the prolonged distal part. The four prominent triangular edges of the latter are very thin and broad lamellæ, finely dentate or serrate.

Subgenus 3. Acantholithium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines in the basal part grown together, so that the whole skeleton is not composed of twenty separated pieces, but represents a single piece of acanthin—a star with twenty equal rays.

Spines quadrangular pyramidal, with simple distal apex, in the basal part grown perfectly together, so that the whole skeleton forms a single piece of acanthin—a starlet with twenty equal rays. The free pyramidal part of each spine is twice to four times as long as the basal part.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.1 to 0.15, greatest breadth (on the surface of the central solid sphere) 0.02 to 0.04.

Subfamily 2. Phractacanthida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with twenty radial spines, each of which bears two opposite apophyses or lateral transverse processes; sometimes two longitudinal rows of opposite apophyses.

Genus 326. Lithophyllium,^[366] J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 52.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with two simple, not branched, opposite apophyses on each radial spine.

The genus Lithophyllium was founded by J. Müller for a single species (Lithophyllium foliosum), which we also here retain as the type of the genus. It is the first observed Astrolonchid, which bears two opposite lateral apophyses on each spine, and may therefore be regarded as the ancestral form of the subfamily Phractacanthida. The two opposite apophyses are here simple, whilst in the other genera of the subfamily they are branched or multiplied.

Acanthometra cruciata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 49, Taf xi. fig. 11.

Xiphacantha cruciata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 385, Taf. xviii. fig. 13.

Spines cylindrical, very thin, crossed perpendicularly in the distal third by a thin transverse beam; both lateral rods of the cross have the same length as the distal end. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross.

Spines compressed, sword-shaped, two-edged, crossed perpendicularly in the middle part by a broad, somewhat curved transverse beam; both lateral rods of the cross are triangular compressed, and have the same length as the proximal end. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross.

Spines compressed quadrangular, tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends; from the middle part arise two opposite perpendicular apophyses, which bear on the rounded end a thickened condyle. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, with a small leaf-cross.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.1 to 0.12, breadth in the middle part 0.02.

Lithophyllium foliosum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 52, Taf. xi. figs. 6-10.

Xiphacantha foliosa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 385.

Spines lanceolate, tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends. From the middle part or from the outer third arise two opposite triangular apophyses, which are not perpendicular to the axis of the spine, but form an acute angle with its distal part. Therefore each spine represents a broad leaf with a middle rib and with three lobes or truncated teeth. The distal apex is distinguished by a violet colour. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Central capsule yellow.

Genus 327. Phractacantha,^[367] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 465.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with two branched, but not latticed, opposite apophyses on each radial spine.

The genus Phractacantha differs from its ancestral form, the preceding Lithophyllium by the ramification of the apophyses, which are either forked or bear lateral branches. If the prolonged fork-branches of the neighbouring spines meet and form a lattice-shell, this genus passes over into Phractaspis, the common ancestral form of the Diporaspida.

Spines cylindrical, thin, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. From the outer third arise two opposite, thin, forked apophyses; ends of the fork branches acute.

Spines compressed, two-edged, tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. From the middle arise two opposite broad, forked apophyses; ends of the fork-branches broad and obtuse.

Genus 328. Doracantha,^[368] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 465.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with two latticed or fenestrated apophyses on each radial spine.

The genus Doracantha arises from the foregoing Phractacantha by union of the fork-branches of the apophyses on each spine. By this concrescence is formed a polygonal or roundish plate with two pores, pierced by the radial spine between them. Doracantha may be regarded as a Dorataspis, in which the twenty small fenestrated plates have not become united.

Spines compressed, two-edged, tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends. Apex simple. Base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. From the middle part of each spine arise two opposite forked apophyses; the neighbouring fork-branches are recurved and united in the tangential plane; so that each spine bears a plate or shield with two elliptical pores; the margin of the roundish plate bears a variable number of short teeth.

Genus 329. Astrolonche,^[369] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 465.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with numerous simple apophyses (four to eight or more on each radial spine), which are arranged in two opposite longitudinal rows (rarely in six such rows, opposite in three parallel planes).

The genus Astrolonche differs from the preceding Phractacanthida in the multiplication of the simple apophyses. Commonly these are opposite in pairs in two longitudinal rows (on the two edges of the compressed spine, at least two on each side). But sometimes (in the subgenus Astrolonchidium) there are six instead of two longitudinal rows of teeth, and these are placed in three parallel planes.

Subgenus 1. Astroloncharium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Each spine with two longitudinal rows of apophyses, opposite in one meridian plane.

Spines compressed, two-edged, almost of equal breadth throughout their whole length, with simple apex and small leaf-cross at the base. From the two edges of the middle part of each spine arise two pairs of opposite apophyses, which are compressed and a little curved (convex on the distal, concave on the proximal margin). All four apophyses are of the same size and form; the radial distance of each pair much smaller than their common distance from the centre.

Acanthometra mucronata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 49, Taf. x. fig. 9.

Aspidomma mucronatum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 424.

Spines conical, little compressed, with simple apex and small leaf-cross at the base. From the basal half of each spine arise two pairs of opposite apophyses, which exhibit a very different form. {757}The upper or distal apophyses (nearly in the middle of the spine) are flat, leaf-shaped, broadened in the periphery, often lobed, and sometimes branched or even fenestrated. (Transition to Phractaspis and Dorataspis, or to Phractopelta?) The lower or proximal apophyses are thick, simple, all slightly curved; they are equidistant from the former and from the centre.

Acanthometra pectinata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 48, Taf. x. figs. 1, 2.

Xiphacantha pectinata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 386.

Spines compressed quadrangular, with short, simple or bifid apex, pyramidal on the base, without leaf-cross. From the two broader edges of the proximal half arise two longitudinal rows of opposite apophyses; three to four slender teeth in each row.

Spines in the distal half compressed, linear, two-edged, with bifid apex; in the proximal half three times as broad lanceolate, at the base pyramidal, without leaf-cross. From the two broader edges of the proximal half arise two longitudinal rows of opposite apophyses; four to six broad triangular teeth in each row.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, breadth in the outer half 0.012, in the inner half 0.03 to 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Astrolonchidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Each spine with three parallel double rows of opposite apophyses.

Xiphacantha serrata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 386, Taf. xvii. fig. 3, Taf. xviii. figs. 14a, 14b.

Xiphacantha serrata, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 11, Taf. ii. fig. 4.

Acanthometra serrata, Haeckel, 1860, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 807.

Spines in the distal half thin, nearly cylindrical or a little compressed, thinned towards the short simple or bifid apex; in the proximal half three to six times as broad, four-winged, with six longitudinal rows of opposite apophyses. From the edges of the two broader (lateral) wings arise three {758}to four pairs of strong conical teeth; from the edges of the two smaller (sagittal) wings arise also three to four pairs of teeth, but very short and broad, triangular; each of these teeth bears on both its (lateral) sides two opposite slender conical teeth, which are parallel to the large conical teeth of the lateral wings. Therefore all teeth (eighteen to twenty-four) are placed opposite in pairs in three parallel planes. Base of the spines pyramidal, with a small leaf-cross. The central capsule of this large and very remarkable species commonly entirely includes the apophyses of the spines, and is opaque, whitish.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth of the distal half 0.002 to 0.004, of the proximal half 0.01 to 0.02.

Subfamily 3. Stauracanthida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with a cross of four free apophyses (or four crossed longitudinal rows of apophyses) on each radial spine.

Genus 330. Xiphacantha,^[370] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 384.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with four simple apophyses on each radial spine, opposite in pairs in the form of a cross.

The genus Xiphacantha was founded by me in 1862 for all those Acanthometrida which bear simple or branched apophyses on their twenty equal spines. I restrict here the genus to those Astrolonchida which bear on each spine a cross of four simple, not branched, apophyses. These are either conical teeth or broad wings, sometimes extremely thin leaves. Xiphacantha may be regarded as the ancestral form not only of the subfamily Stauracanthida, but also of the Tessaraspida, derived from the latter.

Subgenus 1. Xiphacanthonia, Haeckel.

Definition.—Apophyses of the radial spines small, formed like a tooth or a hook, not wing-shaped. Edges of the spines commonly narrow, little prominent.

Xiphacantha quadridentata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 387, Taf. xviii. figs. 15a, 15b.

Acanthometra quadridentata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 48, Taf. x. fig. 3.

Spines slender, four-sided prismatic, gradually thinner towards the simple pyramidal apex. Base with large wing-cross. Four apophyses about in the middle of each spine, conical, straight, smooth, about as long as the basal breadth of the spine. Central capsule opaque, reddish-brown.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth in the middle part 0.012, on the base 0.02; length of the apophyses 0.02 to 0.03.

Spines slender, four-sided prismatic, thin, of nearly equal breadth throughout the whole length. Base with small wing-cross. Four apophyses much nearer the proximal than the distal end, thin, straight smooth, three to six times as long as the basal breadth of the spine. Central capsule pellucid, with yellow bodies.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.4 to 0.5, breadth 0.002 to 0.004; length of the apophyses 0.01 to 0.02.

Xiphacantha spinulosa, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 388, Taf. xvii. fig. 4.

Acanthometra spinulosa, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 807.

Spines stout, four-sided prismatic, of nearly equal breadth throughout the whole length, on the distal apex truncated, two-edged. Base with large wing-cross. Four apophyses about in the middle of each spine, conical, straight, spinulated, twice to four times as long as the basal breadth of the spine. Central capsule opaque, yellow.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.27, breadth 0.014; length of the apophyses 0.05.

Spines stout, four-sided, in the proximal half prismatic, in the distal half pyramidal, with emarginated apex. Base with very large wing-cross. Four apophyses about in the middle of each spine, compressed, straight, two-edged, with emarginated ends, about twice as long as the basal breadth of the spine. Central capsule small, pellucid.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.02 to 0.03; length of the apophyses 0.04 to 0.06.

Spines slender, four-sided prismatic, gradually thickened from both ends towards the middle part, with simple apex. Base with very small wing-cross. Four apophyses about in the middle part of each spine, falcated, compressed, recurved, twice to three times as long as the greatest breadth of the spine.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, greatest breadth 0.015; length of the apophyses 0.03 to 0.05.

Spines slender, four-sided prismatic, gradually thickened from the narrow base towards the short, simple, pyramidal apex. Base with large wing-cross. Four apophyses on the distal end, immediately below the pyramidal apex, falcated, strongly recurved, like an anchor with four strong teeth.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.4 to 0.5, basal breadth 0.005, distal breadth 0.015; length of the apophyses 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Xiphacanthidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Apophyses of the radial spines broad, compressed, wing-shaped, formed like a large thin plate. Edges of the spines commonly broad, strongly prominent.

Spines four-winged, from the middle part little thinner towards both ends. Apex simple pyramidal. Base with small wing-cross. Four apophyses wing-shaped, isosceles triangular or truncated quadrangular; their base is about half as broad as their length, and occupies in the basal half of each spine about one-sixth to one-eighth of its length.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.1 to 0.15; greatest breadth (diagonal of the cross of the apophyses) 0.006 to 0.009.

Spines four-winged, tapering rapidly from the broad middle part towards both ends. Apex simple pyramidal. Base with a small wing-cross. Four apophyses equilateral triangular; their base occupies the middle of each spine, extending to about one-fifth of its length.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.15 to 0.2, greatest breadth (diagonal of the cross of the apophyses) 0.06 to 0.08.

Spines four-winged, from the broad middle part gradually thinner towards both ends. Apex simple pyramidal. Base with small wing-cross. Four apophyses wing-shaped, very long and broad, {761}triangular; their base occupies about the middle third of each spine; the proximal side of each wing is the shortest, truncated or concave.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.4 to 0.5, greatest breadth (diagonal of the middle leaf-cross) 0.08 to 0.12.

Spines four-winged, nearly prismatic in the basal and distal parts. Apex truncated. Base with small wing-cross. Four apophyses wing-shaped, very broad and thin, extremely delicate, of irregular quadrangular or nearly rhomboidal form; their base occupies the middle half of the length of the spines (second and third quarter). Very variable in form. Often the edges of the wing-apophyses of the neighbouring spines seem to meet.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, greatest breadth (diagonal of the leaf-cross) 0.06 to 0.08.

Habitat.—Pacific, widely distributed, Stations 239, 253, 272, 288, &c., surface.

Spines four-winged, prismatic in the basal and the distal third. Apex pyramidal, short. Base with large leaf-cross. Four apophyses wing-shaped, nearly semicircular, with dentated edges and rough spinulate or porous faces; their base occupies the middle third of the length of each spine.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2 to 0.3, greatest breadth (diagonal of the apophysial cross) 0.08 to 0.12.

Xiphacantha alata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 388.

Acanthometra alata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 48, Taf. ix. figs. 1-3.

Spines four-winged, prismatic in the basal quarter, more slender in the distal half. Apex simple pyramidal. Base with small wing-cross. Four apophyses wing-shaped, nearly semicircular, with denticulated edges (and often also with spinulate faces); their base occupies the second quarter of the length of each spine.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, greatest breadth (diagonal of the apophysial cross) 0.05 to 0.06.

Genus 331. Stauracantha,^[371] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 465.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with four branched (but not latticed) apophyses on each radial spine, opposite in pairs in the form of a cross.

The genus Stauracantha differs from its ancestral form, Xiphacantha, in the ramification of the four crossed apophyses on each spine. These bear either lateral branches, which are parallel to the cross axes of the radial spine itself (subgenus Stauracanthonium), or they are forked, with divergent branches not parallel to those cross axes (subgenus Stauracanthidium). Both subgenera may perhaps be better separated as genera. They form the transition to the Stauraspida.

Subgenus 1. Stauracanthonium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Apophyses of the radial spines not forked, but crossed by perpendicular branches, which are placed in tangential planes and parallel to the cross axes of the quadrangular spine itself.

Spines four-sided prismatic, with simple apex and small leaf-cross at the base; with four thin slender conical apophyses in the proximal third. Each apophysis represents a regular rectangular cross, being intersected in its middle by one perpendicular rod of its own length.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3, breadth 0.02; distance of the apophyses from the apex 0.15 to 0.2.

Spine four-winged prismatic, with four broad prominent edges, pyramidal apex, and large basal leaf-cross, with four broad compressed apophyses about in the middle. Each apophysis represents a vertical lamella (placed in a meridian) with convex distal and concave proximal edge, and is crossed in its apical part by one perpendicular short rod.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.5, breadth 0.03; distance of the apophyses from the centre 0.2.

Spines four-sided prismatic, with truncated apex and broad basal leaf-cross; in the proximal half with four slender conical apophyses. Each apophysis is crossed in its apical half at right angles by two short parallel transverse rods.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.32, breadth 0.012; distance of the apophyses from the centre 0.11.

Spines four-winged prismatic, with four broad prominent edges, truncated apex, and small basal leaf-cross; in the proximal third with four compressed lamellar apophyses. Each apophysis is pinnate with opposite pinnulæ, or crossed at right angles by three to six parallel transverse rods.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.24, breadth 0.016; central distance of the apophyses 0.12.

Spines four-sided pyramidal, with simple apex and broad basal leaf-cross, with four large conical apophyses about in their middle. Each apophysis bears two irregular rows of alternating perpendicular lateral branches, the length of which decreases from the base towards the apex of the apophysis.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2, middle breadth 0.02; central distance of the apophyses 0.1.

Xiphacantha species, Wyville Thomson, 1877, The Atlantic, vol. i. p. 235, fig. 53.

Xiphacantha murrayana, Haeckel, 1878, Protistenreich, p. 45, fig. 33.

Spines quadrangular prismatic, with pyramidal apex and small basal leaf-cross, with four regular conical apophyses in the proximal part. Each apophysis is crossed at right angles by two parallel transverse rods; the smaller apical rod is simple; the larger basal rod is crossed again on each side by a secondary perpendicular branch, which therefore is parallel to the apophysis itself.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3, breadth 0.01, distance of the apophyses 0.08.

Spines four-winged pyramidal, with prominent edges, simple apex and large basal leaf-cross, in the middle with doubly pinnate triangular apophyses. Each apophysis is crossed at right angles by three to four transverse parallel rods, which bear again perpendicular secondary branches; the outline of the doubly pinnate apophysis is an isosceles triangle.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3, middle breadth 0.02; distance of the apophyses 0.12.

Subgenus 2. Stauracanthidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Apophyses of the radial spines forked, each with two divergent terminal branches, which are not parallel to the cross axes of the quadrangular spine.

Dorataspis polyancistra, juvenis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 418, Taf. xxi. fig. 7.

Spines slender, quadrangular prismatic, with simple apex and pyramidal base (without basal leaf-cross); with four slender apophyses, which are simply forked in the outer third. Each apophysis with two recurved fork branches.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.12, breadth 0.004; distance of the apophyses 0.06.

Spines stout, four-winged prismatic, with pyramidal apex and pyramidal base (without leaf-cross); in their middle with four compressed, little curved apophyses (convex on the outer, concave on the inner edge), which are simply forked at the end. Each apophysis with two short straight fork branches.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.006; distance of the apophyses 0.08.

Spines slender, four-sided prismatic, with simple apex and pyramidal base (without leaf-cross); with four slender apophyses, which are doubly forked about in their middle. Each apophysis with four short and thin terminal branches.

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.2, breadth 0.002; distance of the apophyses from the centre 0.08.

Genus 332. Phatnacantha,^[372] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 465.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with four apophyses on each radial spine, opposite in pairs in cross form, and forming a lattice-plate by communicating branches.

The genus Phatnacantha has been derived from the preceding Stauracantha by concrescence of the branches of the apophyses. Therefore each spine bears a lattice-plate or a fenestrated shield. If the growing plates of the neighbouring spines {765}meet together, then the characteristic lattice-shell of the Tessaraspida is perfect. Either each plate bears four crossed pores (like Tessaraspis), or a larger number of pores (four aspinal and four to eight or more coronal) like Icosaspis.

Spines quadrangular prismatic, with simple pyramidal apex and small basal leaf-cross. Each spine bears in the basal half a square plate, which is perforated by four square pores; margin of the plate with twelve short straight teeth.

Spines quadrangular with prominent edges; prismatic in the basal half, with a broad basal leaf-cross, pyramidal in the distal half, with a simple or truncate apex. Each spine bears in the middle part a square plate, which is perforated by eight to sixteen or more square pores (four aspinal and four to eight or more coronal); margin of the plate with twenty-four to forty-eight or more short straight irregular compressed teeth.

Genus 333. Pristacantha,^[373] n. gen.

Definition.—Astrolonchida with numerous simple apophyses (eight to sixteen or more on each radial spine) which are arranged in four longitudinal rows opposite in pairs in the form of a cross.

The genus Pristacantha differs from all other Stauracanthida in the multiplication of the crossed apophyses (at least eight on each spine), and exhibits therefore to them the same relation as Astrolonche exhibits to the other Phractacanthida. The remarkable Astrolonchidium serratum appears intermediate between both groups.

Spines four-sided prismatic, a little broader in the middle part than at either end, with thin prominent edges. Apex truncate or pyramidal. Base pyramidal, with a small leaf-cross. From the four edges arise in the basal half (between first and second third of the length) eight slender, conical, or triangular apophyses (two on each edge).

Spines four-winged, of lanceolate outline, tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends. Apex pyramidal. Base with a large leaf-cross. From the four wings arise in the basal part (between first and second third of the length) twelve triangular apophyses (three from each wing).

Spines in the distal half four-sided prismatic, thin, with pyramidal apex; in the basal half much broader, four-winged, with a large leaf-cross on the base. From the four wings of the basal half arises a variable number of slender teeth or triangular apophyses, commonly sixteen to twenty-four, often irregular (four to six from each wing).

Dimensions.—Length of the spines 0.3 to 0.4, breadth in the distal part 0.007 to 0.01, in the basal part 0.02 to 0.03.

Family XXXVII. Quadrilonchida, Haeckel (Pl. 131).

Definition.—Acantharia with twenty radial spines of very unequal size, disposed according to the law of the Icosacantha; four equatorial spines much larger than the sixteen others. No lattice-shell.

The family Quadrilonchida differs from the foregoing ancestral family, the Astrolonchida, in the unequal development of the twenty radial spines. The four equatorial spines are constantly much larger, and often also of another form and shape, than the sixteen other spines; often also among these the eight tropical spines are larger and of another form than the eight polar spines. Therefore the five parallel girdles or zones of every four spines, which in the Astrolonchida are equal, are here distinctly unequal. The whole body is flattened and compressed in the direction of the spineless axis, so that the equatorial plane is larger than any other plane, laid through the centre. In consequence of this flattening the central capsule is also commonly compressed and flattened, lenticular or discoidal, rarely spherical. In the Astrolonchida the "promorph" or the "geometrical fundamental form" is constantly a square double pyramid, the axes of which are of equal length. In the Quadrilonchida it becomes a square double pyramid, the two equatorial axes of which (or the diagonals of the square) are constantly longer than all other axes.

In the simpler forms of Quadrilonchida are found only two different kinds of spines, the four larger equatorial spines being of the same size and form, and the sixteen smaller {767}spines also not differing from one another (Acanthostaurus, &c.). But in the majority of this family there are three different kinds: four larger equatorial spines, eight tropical spines of middle size, and eight smaller polar spines (Belonostaurus, &c.); the latter become sometimes rudimentary, so that only twelve spines are developed (four larger equatorial and eight smaller tropical spines). In this case the development of the flat discoidal body is much stronger in the equatorial plane than in all other planes. These discoidal or lenticular Quadrilonchida exhibit a relation to the spherical Astrolonchida similar to that which the Discoidea exhibit to the Sphæroidea among the Sphærellaria.

A further morphological differentation takes place in the remarkable genera Lonchostaurus and Zygostaurus. In the former (Pl. 131, figs. 4-6) the four larger equatorial spines becomes differentiated in pairs, so that the opposite equal spines of one pair, c1, c3 (in the longitudinal or hydrotomical axis), are larger, and often also of another form, than the opposite equal spines of the other pair, c2, c4 (in the transverse or geotomical axis). The most peculiar form is the rather common Zygostaurus (Pl. 131, figs. 7, 8). Here the two opposite spines of one equatorial axis (of the longitudinal axis) become very different, so that the anterior or frontal spine (c1) is very unequal to the posterior or caudal spine (c3), whereas the two opposite spines, of the other equatorial axis (of the transverse axis) remain equal (c2, c4). Therefore the fundamental forms become here "amphithect," as in the Ctenophora.

The numerous Quadrilonchida may be disposed in two different subfamilies: in the Acanthostaurida all twenty radial spines are simple, without apophyses; in the Lithopterida all twenty spines (or only one part of them) bear two opposite apophyses (or lateral transverse processes). The former correspond to the Zygacanthida, the latter to the Phractacanthida among the Astrolonchida. The two opposite apophyses are simple in Quadrilonche (Pl. 133, fig. 1). In Xiphoptera they are provided on their distal side with lateral branches which are parallel to the spine itself. In Lithoptera the spines bear two to four parallel pairs of transverse apophyses, and these are crossed by perpendicular branches, parallel to the spine itself, so that there arise fenestrated wings or latticed plates, comparable to the sails of a wind-mill. The lattice-work of these plates lies in the same meridian plane with the radial spine itself, and is therefore not comparable to the fenestrated apophyses of Doracantha, of Phatnacantha, and of the Dorataspida; in these the lattice-plates lie in tangential planes, perpendicular to the radial spine.

The apophyses of the Lithopterida may be developed either on all twenty spines equally, or only on twelve spines (four equatorial and eight tropical, whilst the eight polar spines are simple, Pl. 131, fig. 10), or only on the four equatorial spines (whilst the sixteen others are simple, Pl. 131, fig. 9).

The Central Capsule of the Quadrilonchida is rarely spherical, commonly more or {768}less compressed from both poles of the spineless axis, lenticular or discoidal, sometimes square. It is enveloped by a voluminous calymma constantly bearing coronals of "Myophrisca" (compare p. 724).

Synopsis of the Genera of Quadrilonchida.

Subfamily 1. Acasthostaurida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 466.

Genus 334. Acanthostaurus,^[374] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 395.

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with four equatorial spines of equal size and form, which are much larger than the sixteen other spines. Eight tropical and eight polar spines nearly equal. No apophyses.

The genus Acanthostaurus is the most simple and primitive form of the Quadrilonchida, and the common ancestral genus of this family; it is at the same time its most common and widely distributed form. Some species appear in astonishing numbers in different seas. It has been derived from Acanthometron by stronger development of the four equatorial spines, which are all of equal size and much larger than the sixteen others.

Subgenus 1. Acostaurus, Haeckel.

Definition.—All twenty spines separated, in the centre united only by the triangular faces or the meeting leaf-shaped edges of their pyramidal bases.

Spines cylindrical, of nearly equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex simple conical. Base with a large leaf-cross. Four equatorial spines of the same form as the sixteen others, but much longer and about three times as broad.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.2 to 0.25, breadth 0.008; length of the sixteen minor spines 0.01 to 0.15, breadth 0.003.

Spines linear, sword-shaped, strongly compressed, two edged; of nearly equal breadth in their whole length. Apex bifid. Base with a small leaf-cross. Four equatorial spines of the same form as the sixteen others, but twice as long and as broad.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.4 to 0.5, of the sixteen minor 0.2 to 0.3; breadth of the former 0.02, of the latter 0.01.

Spines conical, short, gradually tapering from the thick base towards the simple apex. Base with large leaf-cross. Four equatorial spines more cylindrical, twice to three times as long and as broad as the sixteen others.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.15 to 0.2, of the sixteen minor 0.05 to 0.08; basal breadth of the former 0.03, of the latter 0.012.

Acanthostaurus purpurascens, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 395, Taf. xix. figs. 1, 2.

Acanthostaurus purpurascens, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organism. d. Radiol., Taf. i. figs. 8, 9, Taf. iii. figs. 13, 15.

Acanthometra purpurascens, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 809.

Spines nearly cylindrical, with four blunt (often scarcely visible) edges, tapering slightly from the central to the distal end. Apex bifid, with two short parallel teeth. Base with a broad leaf-cross. {770}Four equatorial spines one and a half times to twice as long and broad as the sixteen others. Central capsule cruciate, with four arms (enveloping the basal part of the four large spines); filled up with yellow bodies and purple granules. Calymma large, with a network of purple granules. The four main spines are constantly much larger than the sixteen others, but in variable proportion. The eight polar spines are sometimes rudimentary.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.3 to 0.4, of the sixteen minor 0.15 to 0.3; breadth of the former 0.012, of the later 0.008 or less.

Acanthostaurus pallidus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 396.

Acanthometra pallida, Claparède et Lachmann, 1858, Études sur les Infusoires, &c., p. 461, Taf. xxiv. fig. 6.

Spines four-sided prismatic, with four blunt edges, of nearly equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex bifid. Base with a small leaf-cross. Four equatorial spines much larger than the sixteen others. Central capsule spherical, transparent, containing some yellow bodies.

Dimensions.—Length of the four main spines 0.12 to 0.2, of the sixteen others 0.04 to 0.08; breadth of the former 0.01, of the latter 0.004.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, west coast of Norway, Claparède; Færöe Channel, John Murray.

Acanthostaurus forceps, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 396, Taf. xix. figs. 3, 4.

Acanthometra forceps, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 809.

Spines pincer-shaped, linear, compressed, cleft nearly throughout their whole length into two parallel thin, straight branches, which are united only at the pyramidal base and by means of a small bridge in the middle part. Four main spines twice as long and as broad as the sixteen others. Central capsule square, filled up with red pigment, and containing yellow bodies. The diagonals of the square are the two equatorial axes.

Dimensions.—Length of the four main spines 0.1, of the sixteen others 0.05; breadth of the former 0.01, of the latter 0.005.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina); North Atlantic, Canary Islands, Station 354, surface.

Acanthostaurus hastatus, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 397, Taf. xix. fig. 5.

Acanthometra hastata, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 809.

Spines of very different size and form; four equatorial spines cylindrical in the basal half, spear-shaped or lanceolate in the distal half, with thin edges, little longer, but five to eight times as {771}broad as the sixteen smaller spines, which are cylindrical, of equal breadth throughout their whole length, with bifid apex. Base of all twenty spines pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Central capsule yellow, spherical, or lenticular.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.066, breadth in the middle 0.005, on the apex 0.008; length of the sixteen smaller spines 0.054, breadth 0.001.

Subgenus 2. Staurolithium, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 401.

Definition.—All twenty spines in the centre melted and grown together, forming one single, star-like piece of acanthin.

Staurolithium cruciatum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 401, Taf. xx. fig. 6.

Astrolithium cruciatum, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 811.

Spines cylindrical, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex simple conical. Four equatorial spines twice as long and broad as the sixteen other spines. All twenty spines in the centre melted and grown together, forming a single piece of acanthin. Central capsule spherical, red-brown, opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the four equatorial spines 0.12, breadth 0.006; length of the sixteen smaller spines 0.06, breadth 0.003.

Genus 335. Belonostaurus,^[375] n. gen.

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with four equatorial spines of equal size and form, which are much larger than the sixteen other spines. Eight tropical and eight polar spines very different. No apophyses.

The genus Belonostaurus differs from the preceding Acanthostaurus in the unequal size and form of the eight tropical and the eight polar spines; the latter are much smaller than the former and often quite rudimentary, so that the skeleton appears composed only of twelve spines, four larger equatorial and eight smaller tropical spines. The central bases of the polar spines are constantly preserved. The central capsule is a flattened square disk.

Four equatorial spines little compressed, almost cylindrical in the basal half, lanceolate, broader, with simple apex in the distal half. Eight tropical spines a little shorter, but only half as broad, {772}sword-shaped, two-edged, of equal breadth, with simple apex. Eight polar spines very short, conical, also with simple apex. Base without leaf-cross, a simple pyramid.

Dimensions.—Length of the four equatorial spines 0.18, of the eight tropical spines 0.14, of the eight polar spines 0.04.

Four equatorial spines compressed, almost lanceolate in the basal half, bifid, with two large, bent, little divergent horns in the distal half. Eight tropical spines nearly of the same form, but only half as large, with much smaller horns. Eight polar spines rudimentary, very short, conical, with simple apex. Base with a large leaf-cross.

Dimensions.—Length of the four equatorial spines 0.2, of the eight tropical spines 0.1, of the eight polar spines 0.02.

Genus 336. Lonchostaurus,^[376] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 397 (sensu emendato).

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with four equatorial spines of unequal size and form; the principal spines (in the longitudinal axis) larger than the lateral spines (in the transverse axis); both opposite spines of each pair equal. Sixteen other spines much smaller (often the eight tropical larger than the eight rudimentary polar spines). No apophyses.

The genus Lonchostaurus differs from the two preceding genera in the unequal size and shape of both equatorial pairs of spines, whilst the two opposite spines of each pair are equal. Therefore the equatorial plane is here a rhombus, not a square, as in the preceding genera. We encounter here for the first time the differentiation of the two equatorial axes, the longitudinal (or hydrotomical) and the transverse (or geotomical) axis. The sixteen other spines are constantly smaller (often also the eight polar more or less rudimentary).

Four equatorial spines cylindrical, twice to three times as broad as the sixteen smaller spines, conical at the distal apex; the two opposite spines of the longitudinal axis twice as long as those of the transverse axis. Sixteen smaller spines conical at the base, with simple bristle-shaped apex. The surface of the rhombical calymma, including the spines, was covered in the figured specimen with small plates like those of Sphærocapsa.

Dimensions.—Length of the cross (longitudinal axis) 0.24, breadth (transverse axis) 0.12.

Four equatorial spines compressed, lanceolate, tapering equally from the middle towards the two ends; the two opposite spines of the longitudinal axis one and a half times as long as those of the transverse axis. Sixteen smaller spines compressed, linear, two-edged, half as long and only one-fourth as broad as the two longitudinal spines.

Four equatorial spines compressed, nearly rectangular, forked, with two long and thin, bent, little divergent horns; the two opposite spines of the longitudinal axis about one-third longer and broader than those of the transverse axis. Sixteen smaller spines of the same form, also forked, but the eight tropical only half as large, and the eight polar spines scarcely one-fourth as large as the two longitudinal spines.

Four equatorial spines nearly rhomboidal, about one and a half times as large as the eight tropical and three times as large as the eight polar spines; the two opposite spines of the longitudinal axis only with two large divergent straight horns; the two spines of the transverse axis somewhat shorter, with four short horns (the two outer horns longer than the two inner). Eight tropical spines doubly forked, each with four thin bristle-shaped horns. Eight polar spines very short, each with two thin bristle-shaped, much divergent horns.

Four equatorial spines nearly rhomboidal, tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends. Leaf-cross of their base very large. The two opposite spines of the longitudinal axis about one-third larger than the two spines of the transverse axis. Eight tropical spines of the same form, but only half as large. Eight polar spines rudimentary, very short, conical.

Four equatorial spines lanceolate or rhomboidal, with broad leaf-cross at the base, of a peculiar crystalline structure and a lamellated surface, both opposite spines of the longitudinal axis twice as {774}large as the two spines of the transverse axis. Eight tropical spines of similar form, but only half as large, and with a very large, extremely prominent, lamellated leaf-cross. Eight polar spines quite rudimentary, scarcely prominent.

Genus 337. Zygostaurus,^[377] n. gen.

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with four equatorial spines of unequal size and form; both lateral spines (in the transverse axis) equal; but both principal spines (in the longitudinal axis) very different, the frontal larger than the caudal. Sixteen other spines much smaller (often the eight tropical larger than the eight rudimentary polar spines). No apophyses.

The genus Zygostaurus differs from all other Staurolonchida in the peculiar differentiation of the four equatorial spines; the two opposite spines of the hydrotomical or longitudinal axis being very different in size and form (the frontal spine forked, the caudal spine simple); whilst the two opposite spines of the geotomical or lateral axis (perpendicular to the former) are equal, forked, but different in shape from the former. Therefore the geometrical fundamental form of the body in this remarkable genus becomes "amphithect" or "bilateral" in the widest signification of this term (comp. my General Morphology, vol. i. pp. 480, 482). Of the three different dimensive axes one (the longitudinal) exhibits unequal poles, whilst the two other (the sagittal and lateral) axes exhibit equal poles.

Frontal spine (c1) little different from the two lateral spines; each with two divergent curved horns, which are equal and of about the same length as the simple broad basal part. Caudal spine (c3) simple, spindle-shaped, about as long as the frontal spine. Tropical spines little smaller than the three former, and of the same symmetrical forked form. Eight polar spines much smaller, but also forked, with thin bristle-shaped branches.

Dimensions.—Length of the cross (longitudinal axis) 0.5, breadth (lateral axis) 0.4.

Frontal spine (c1) little different from the two lateral spines, each with two divergent curved horns, which are equal and of about the same length as the simple broad basal part. Caudal {775}spine (c3) simple, lanceolate, shorter than the frontal spine. Eight tropical spines in the basal part smaller than the three former, but with much longer fork-branches, which are prolonged into very thin and long bristles. Eight polar spines rudimentary, very short.

Frontal spine (c1) little different from the two lateral spines, each with two divergent straight horns, which are shorter than the basal part. Caudal spine (c3) simple, triangular, shorter than the three former. Eight tropical spines of equal size and form, doubly forked, each with four thin, bristle-shaped, little divergent teeth. Eight polar spines short, simply forked.

Frontal spine (c1) very different from the others, pincer-shaped, with two long, nearly parallel slightly bent horns. Lateral spines (c2 and c4) only half as long, with two short, nearly parallel horns. Caudal spine (c3) very long and stout, spindle-shaped, about twice as long as the frontal spine. Eight tropical spines of equal size and form, symmetrical, with two long and thin, divergent horns. Eight polar spines short and stout, with two divergent horns.

Frontal spine (c1) very different from the others, with two very long, divergent, stout branches. Lateral spines (c2 and c4) only half as long, each with two stout, nearly parallel horns of equal length. Caudal spine (c3) simple, sword-like, shorter than the three former. Eight tropical spines of equal size and form, symmetrical, of the same shape as the two lateral, but only half as large. Eight polar spines very small, rudimentary, each with two short teeth.

Frontal spine (c1) very different from the others, with two equal, strongly divergent, bent horns. Lateral spines (c2 and c4) little smaller, but with two very unequal horns (the anterior shorter than the posterior). Caudal spine (c3) simple, sword-like or triangular, two-edged, longer {776}than the frontal spine. Eight tropical spines different, the four anterior (b1, b4, d1, d4) smaller, with longer horns; the four posterior (b2, b3, d2, d3) broader, with shorter horns; the anterior horn of each tropical spine is longer than the posterior. Eight polar spines rudimentary, simple, very short.

Subfamily 2. Lithopterida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with two opposite transverse apophyses either on all twenty spines or only on a part of them.

Genus 338. Quadrilonche,^[378] n. gen.

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with two simple opposite apophyses either on each radial spine or only on a part of the twenty spines.

The genus Quadrilonche is the ancestral form of the Lithopterida, or of those Quadrilonchida which bear two opposite apophyses or transverse processes. In Quadrilonche these apophyses are simple, whilst they are branched in Xiphoptera and fenestrated in Lithoptera. Each of these three genera may be divided into three subgenera; in the first only the four equatorial spines are provided with apophyses, in the second twelve spines (four equatorial and eight tropical), in the third subgenus all twenty spines.

Subgenus 1. Quadriloncharium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Four large equatorial spines provided with transverse apophyses; sixteen other smaller spines simple, without apophyses.

Four equatorial spines very large, compressed, two-edged, each crossed in the distal third by two opposite simple apophyses. Sixteen other spines also compressed, linear, somewhat shorter than the former and only half as broad, without apophyses.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.12, breadth 0.02; length of the sixteen minor spines 0.08, breadth 0.01.

Four equatorial spines lanceolate, compressed, with two opposite triangular simple apophyses in the broadest middle part. Sixteen other spines also lanceolate, much smaller, of about half the length, but only of one-fourth the breadth, without apophyses.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.2, breadth 0.018; length of the sixteen minor spines 0.1, breadth 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Quadrilonchidium, Haeckel.

Four equatorial spines almost of the some form and length as the sixteen others, but of double or triple the breadth; each spine in its middle third with two opposite broad triangular apophyses, in the basal third rectangular, compressed, in the distal third isosceles triangular, with simple apex.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.16, breadth 0.01 to 0.015; length of the sixteen minor spines 0.12, breadth 0.005.

Four equatorial spines one and a half times as long and three times as broad as the sixteen others; all twenty spines cylindrical, of equal breadth throughout their whole length, with simple conical apex; each spine crossed in the distal third by two opposite, simple, conical apophyses.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.3, breadth 0.012; length of the sixteen minor spines 0.2, breadth 0.004.

Genus 339. Xiphoptera,^[379] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 466.

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with two opposite branched (but not latticed) apophyses, either on each radial spine or only on a part of the twenty spines.

The genus Xiphoptera differs from the preceding ancestral genus Quadrilonche in the ramification of the apophyses, which bear perpendicular branches on their distal side. These are therefore parallel to the spine itself. If the branches become united by transverse beams then we get Lithoptera.

Four equatorial spines in the outer third crossed by two opposite transverse apophyses, each of which bears on its distal side two to three branches, perpendicular to the apophysis and parallel to the spine itself. Sixteen other spines much smaller, in the outer third crossed by two simple opposite transverse apophyses.

Dimensions.—Length of the four major spines 0.18, of the sixteen minor 0.05 to 0.1.

Four equatorial spines one and a half times to twice as long and broad as the eight tropical spines. These twelve spines have the same form and are crossed in their distal third by two large opposite transverse apophyses, each of which bears on its distal side two to four branches, perpendicular to the apophysis and parallel to the spine. Eight polar spines much smaller than the twelve others, simple, without apophyses. The central capsule of this species exhibited a conical protuberance around the base of each individual spine.

Dimensions.—Length of the twelve larger spines 0.1 to 0.2, of the eight smaller 0.02 to 0.06.

Four equatorial spines about twice as long and four times as broad as the sixteen other spines. All twenty spines crossed in the outer third by two large opposite transverse apophyses, each of which bears on its distal side two to four branches perpendicular to the apophysis and parallel to the spine itself.

Dimensions.—Length of the four equatorial spines 0.26, of the sixteen smaller 0.11 to 0.14.

Genus 340. Lithoptera,^[380] J. Müller, 1858, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 155.

Definition.—Quadrilonchida with two opposite branched and latticed apophyses, either on each radial spine or only on a part of the twenty spines.

The genus Lithoptera, founded by Johannes Müller in 1858 for the first observed Mediterranean species, Lithoptera fenestrata, differs from all other Quadrilonchida in the fenestrated form of the apophyses, which he compared to the sails of a windmill. This peculiar fenestration is effected by two to four parallel pairs of opposite apophyses, which are crossed by perpendicular branches, parallel to the spine itself. {779}Therefore the wings or lattice-plates have quadrangular meshes and lie in one meridian plane of the spine, not in a tangential plane (as in the Acanthophracta). Commonly the lateral ends of the four broad equatorial wings are so crossed that one lateral corner of each wing lies on the upper, the other corner on the under side of both its neighbours; but sometimes the meeting corners have grown together.

Subgenus 1. Lithopteranna, Haeckel.

Definition.—Four equatorial spines with transverse apophyses; sixteen others (eight tropical and eight polar spines) simple, without apophyses.

Four equatorial spines spindle-shaped, with latticed apophyses, each crossed by two transverse beams which are connected at equal distances by four rods parallel to the spine (therefore each wing with four square meshes in a single row). Lateral corners of the neighbouring wings not meeting. Sixteen smaller spines (eight tropical and eight polar) simple, conical, without apophyses.

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.24; length of the inner square 0.16.

Lithoptera mülleri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 398, Taf. xx. figs. 1, 2.

Four equatorial spines four-edged, with large latticed apophyses, each crossed by three transverse beams, which are connected at irregular distances by eight to twelve rods parallel to the spine (therefore each wing with two rows of rectangular meshes). The wings are placed not perfectly in the equatorial plane, but a little obliquely, so that each wing lies with one lateral corner on the upper, with the other corner on the under side of its neighbours. Sixteen smaller spines simple, thin, cylindrical, without apophyses.

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.3; length of the inner square 0.17.

Four equatorial spines four-edged, with large latticed apophyses; each crossed by three transverse beams, which are connected at short distances by twelve to sixteen rods parallel to the spine (therefore each wing with two rows of hexagonal or nearly elliptical meshes). Wings placed as in Lithoptera mülleri. Sixteen smaller spines simple, thin, prismatic, without apophyses.

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.35; length of the inner square 0.2.

Four equatorial spines compressed, four-edged, with large latticed apophyses, each crossed by four transverse beams, which are connected at regular distances by eight to twelve rods parallel to the spine. (Therefore each wing with three rows of square meshes.) Wings placed in the equatorial plane and grown together by their meeting lateral ends, forming a square equatorial girdle of lattice-work. Sixteen smaller spines simple, thin, prismatic, without apophyses.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the square body 0.4; length of the inner square 0.22.

Subgenus 2. Lithopterella, Haeckel.

Definition.—Twelve spines (four equatorial and eight tropical) with transverse apophyses; the eight polar spines simple, without apophyses.

Twelve spines with transverse apophyses; eight (polar) spines simple, small, without apophyses. Four equatorial spines very large and stout, compressed, each crossed by four transverse beams, which are connected by eight to ten rods parallel to the spine (therefore each wing with three rows of irregular rectangular meshes). Wings placed in the equatorial plane and grown together by their meeting lateral ends, forming a square equatorial girdle of lattice-work. Eight tropical spines thin, crossed by a long and thin transverse beam, which bears on its distal side eight to ten rods parallel to the spine.

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.35; length of the inner square 0.18.

Twelve spines with transverse apophyses; eight (polar) spines simple, small, without apophyses. Four equatorial spines very large, quadrangular; each crossed by three transverse beams, which are connected by ten to twelve rods parallel to the spine (therefore each wing with two rows of square meshes). Wings placed as in Lithoptera mülleri. Eight tropical spines much thinner, crossed each by two transverse beams, which are connected by six to eight rods parallel to the spine (therefore each wing with one row of rectangular meshes).

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.4; length of the inner square 0.25.

Subgenus 3. Lithopteromma, Haeckel.

Lithoptera darwinii, Haeckel, 1879, Natürl. Schöpfungsgesch., Aufl. vii. p. 706, Taf. xvi. fig. 12.

All twenty spines with transverse apophyses; these are quite simple in the eight small cross-shaped polar spines; also simple, but bearing some perpendicular rods, in the eight thin tropical spines. Four equatorial spines very large and stout, each crossed by four transverse beams, which are connected by eight to ten rods parallel to the spine (therefore each wing with three rows of irregular rectangular meshes). Wings placed in the equatorial plane and grown partly together by their meeting lateral ends.

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.4; length of the inner square 0.2.

All twenty spines with transverse apophyses, bearing one to three rows of rectangular meshes; eight polar spines small, each with a single row; eight tropical spines long and thin, each with two parallel rows. Four equatorial spines much larger and thicker, each with three parallel transverse rows of meshes. All twenty wings free, not grown together by their lateral ends.

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.48; length of the inner square 0.24.

Lithoptera fenestrata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 154, Taf. xi. fig. 13.

All twenty spines with transverse apophyses, bearing one to three rows of irregular, rectangular meshes; eight polar and eight tropical spines small, each with a single row of meshes (between two parallel transverse beams). Four equatorial spines little larger, each with two rows (between three parallel transverse beams). Central capsule filled up with green pigment.

Dimensions.—Diagonal of the square body 0.3; length of the inner square 0.2.

Family XXXVIII. Amphilonchida, Haeckel (Pl. 132).

Acantholonchida (Amphilonchida et Amphilithida), Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 466.

Definition.—Acantharia with twenty radial spines of very unequal size, disposed according to the law of the Icosacantha; two opposite equatorial spines (in the longitudinal axis) much larger than the eighteen others. No lattice-shell.

The family Amphilonchida is distinguished from all other Acanthometra by the excessive development of two opposite equatorial spines, which are much larger {782}than the eighteen other spines. In my Monograph (1862, p. 389) I had united all these Acanthonida in a single genus Amphilonche (with ten species). Some species of it are very common and widely distributed; but in general the number of different forms in this family is much smaller than in the two foregoing families.

The two principal spines, which in all Amphilonchida are much larger than the eighteen other spines, characterise the "hydrotomical axis" or the larger equatorial axis. The two other equatorial spines or the "geotomical spines" are much smaller, and commonly of the same size as the eight tropical and the eight polar spines. In the genera Amphilonche and Amphibelone these eighteen smaller spines are rather equally developed; sometimes they are very small or quite rudimentary, so that the skeleton seems to be represented only by the two very long principal spines (Pl. 132, fig. 4). The genus Acantholonche is distinguished by the unequal size of the eight tropical and the eight polar spines, the latter being more or less rudimentary. However, the central bases of all twenty spines, by which they are united in the centre, are constantly present. The genus Amphibelone is distinguished by the unequal size and form of the two principal spines, one of them the "caudal spine," being larger (and often of another form) than the opposite "frontal spine."

The form of the radial spines is in the Amphilonchida far less varied and complicated than in the other Acanthonida (the Astrolonchida and Quadrilonchida). Apophyses or lateral transverse processes are never developed. The three main forms of spines are the same as in the other Acanthonida; they are (1) either cylindrical or conical (like Acanthometron), or (2) compressed or two-edged (like Zygacantha), or (3) quadrangular or four-edged (like Acanthonia). Often the spines are angular in the inner or proximal, roundish in the outer or distal part. The distal apex is commonly simple, conical or pyramidal. The central base is commonly also pyramidal, as in the majority of the Acanthonida; and the triangular faces of the neighbouring bases are simply propped one upon another. More rarely a basal leaf-cross is developed above the basal pyramid. Very rarely the central bases of the united spines grow together in the centre, so that the whole skeleton forms a single piece of acanthin.

The Central Capsule is rarely spherical, commonly prolonged in the direction of the hydrotomical axis; ellipsoidal or cylindrical, sometimes also four-sided prismatic; it commonly envelops the greater part of the two principal spines; its structure and contents are the same as in the other Acanthonida.

Synopsis of the Genera of Amphilonchida.

Genus 341. Amphilonche,^[381] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 389.

Definition.—Amphilonchida with two equal principal spines (frontal and caudal spines not different); the eighteen smaller spines nearly equal.

The genus Amphilonche represents the original and at the same time the most common form of Amphilonchida; the two opposite principal spines are of equal size and form, much larger (and often also of another form) than the eighteen smaller spines; these latter exhibit no marked differences in size and form.

Subgenus 1. Amphiloncharium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines in the centre united by triangular faces of their pyramidal bases, propped one upon another. No basal leaf-cross.

Amphilonche belonoides, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 392, Taf. xvi. fig. 6, Taf. xviii. fig. 21.

Acanthometra belonoides, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 808.

Two principal spines cylindrical, of equal breadth throughout their whole length, with simple conical apex; base a small pyramid, without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines conical, much shorter, with simple bristle-shaped apex. Central capsule spindle-shaped or cylindrical, yellow.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.4 to 0.8, of the eighteen minor 0.05 to 0.2.

Two principal spines compressed, lanceolate, two-edged, gradually tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends; apex simple; base a large pyramid, with broad leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines about half as long, pyramidal, with simple conical or bristle-shaped apex. Central capsule lentelliptical, pink, opaque.

Two principal spines compressed, lanceolate, two-edged, tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends; apex simple; base a small pyramid, without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines {784}sword-shaped, only two-thirds or one-half as long, and one-third or one-fourth as broad, each with two opposite teeth in the distal part. Central capsule ellipsoidal.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.13, breadth 0.02; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.1.

Amphilonche tenuis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 389, Taf. xvi. fig. 1, Taf. xviii. fig. 16.

Acanthometra tenuis, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 807.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic, with smooth edges, slightly or not at all prominent, of equal breadth throughout their whole length; apex simple or bifid; base a small pyramid, without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines of the same form, but only one-fourth or one-third as long. Central capsule spherical or ellipsoidal, colourless.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.2 to 0.3, of the eighteen minor spines 0.05 to 0.1.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina); Atlantic, Station 354, Canary Islands, surface.

Amphilonche denticulata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 390, Taf. xvi. fig. 2, Taf. xviii. fig. 17.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic, with prominent, elegantly denticulated edges, of equal breadth throughout their whole length; apex simple or truncated; base a small pyramid, without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines of the same form, but only one-fourth or one-third as long. Central capsule ellipsoidal, opaque, yellowish-brown.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.3 to 0.4, of the eighteen minor 0.1; breadth of the former 0.009, of the latter 0.006.

Amphilonche heteracantha, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 293, Taf. xvi. fig. 7.

Acanthometra heteracantha, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 808.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic, very large, with four broad, prominent, lamellar edges, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. Apex as well as the base a four-sided pyramid. Eighteen smaller spines very thin, conical, with bristle-shaped apex; base a small pyramid, without leaf-cross. Central capsule cylindrical or violin-shaped, opaque yellow.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth 0.015 to 0.02; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.1 to 0.15, basal breadth 0.004 to 0.008.

Amphilonche elongata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 392, Taf. xviii. figs. 22a, 22b.

Acanthometra elongata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 48, Taf. vii. fig. 13.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic in the proximal half, cylindrical or spindle-shaped in the distal half, with simple apex; base a small pyramid, without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines very thin, bristle-shaped, conical on the base, with small pyramid. Central capsule spindle-shaped, transparent, yellow.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.3 to 0.5, breadth 0.01 to 0.03; length of the eighteen smaller spines 0.05 to 0.3.

Subgenus 2. Amphilonchidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Spines at the central base with a broad leaf-cross, composed of four prominent triangular lamellæ; between the meeting edges of the latter twenty-two pyramidal compartments or basal funnels.

Amphilonche ovata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 390.

Acanthometra ovata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 47, Taf. vii. fig. 10, Taf. ix. fig. 4.

Two principal spines cylindrical, of equal breadth throughout their whole length, with simple conical or bifid apex; base with a large leaf-cross of double the breadth. Eighteen smaller spines of the same form, but thinner and only half as long. Central capsule ellipsoidal, brown, opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.3 to 0.4, breadth 0.008 to 0.012; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.1 to 0.2.

Two principal spines conical, elongate, with simple apex; base thickened, with large leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines also conical, of about the same basal breadth, but only one-fourth to one-half as long. Central capsule ellipsoidal, pellucid.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.15 to 0.2, basal breadth 0.03 to 0.04; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.05 to 0.1.

Two principal spines compressed, lanceolate, two edged, gradually tapering from the broader middle towards the two ends; apex simple; base of double the breadth, with a large leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines of the same form, but shorter and only half as broad. Central capsule lentelliptical, pellucid.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.2 to 0.3, breadth in the middle part 0.02 to 0.03; length of the eighteen smaller spines 0.1 to 0.2.

Amphilonche complanata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 390, Taf. xvi. fig. 3, Taf. xviii. fig. 18, a, b.

Acanthometra complanata, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 808.

Two principal spines compressed, two-edged, linear, of equal breadth throughout their whole length; apex emarginate or bifid; base with a large leaf-cross of double the breadth. Eighteen smaller spines of the same form, but only one-fourth to one-half as large. Central capsule ellipsoidal, yellow, pellucid.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.15 to 0.25, breadth 0.004 to 0.006; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.05 to 0.1.

Amphilonche messanensis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 391, Taf. xvi. fig. 4, Taf. xviii. fig. 19.

Acanthometra messanensis, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 808.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic, often a little compressed from two sides, of nearly equal breadth throughout their whole length; apex either truncate or emarginate, with two opposite teeth; base with a large leaf-cross of double the breadth. Eighteen smaller spines of similar form or more compressed, much shorter. Central capsule spherical or ellipsoidal, yellow, transparent.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.12 to 0.18, breadth 0.016; length of the minor spines 0.05 to 0.09.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic, with four broad prominent lamellar edges or wings, of equal breadth throughout their whole length; apex pyramidal; base with a large leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines cylindrical or bristle-shaped, only half as long and very thin. Central capsule cylindrical or spindle-shaped, very long, opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.1 to 0.2, breadth 0.02 to 0.03; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.05 to 0.1.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic, nearly violin-shaped, with four very broad, prominent, lamellar wings, which are constricted in the middle part, and broadened towards the two ends; apex truncate pyramidal; base with a large leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines much shorter, of equal breadth at the base, assuming the form of a quadrangular pyramid, thin prismatic in the distal half. Central capsule spindle-shaped, opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.15 to 0.18, breadth 0.02 to 0.025; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.04 to 0.08.

Amphilonche tetraptera, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 391, Taf. xvi. fig. 5, Taf. xviii. fig. 20.

Acanthometra tetraptera, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 808.

Two principal spines four-sided pyramidal, with four broad lamellar prominent edges; apex simple or bifid; base with a large leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines of similar form, but only half as large. Central capsule spherical, opaque.

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.2, breadth on the base 0.025; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.1.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina); North Atlantic, Canary Islands, Stations 352 to 354, surface.

Subgenus 3. Amphilithium, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 466.

Definition.—Spines in the basal part grown together, so that the whole skeleton represents a single piece of acanthin; a star with two larger and eighteen smaller rays.

Two principal spines cylindrical, very long, of equal breadth throughout their whole length, with simple conical apex. Eighteen smaller spines short, conical or bristle-shaped, scarcely one-fourth or one-tenth as long, often quite rudimentary. All twenty spines perfectly grown together in the centre, forming a single piece of acanthin (derived from Amphilonche belonoides by central concrescence; often the sutures of the concreted bases are visible, fig. 4a).

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.1 to 0.4, breadth 0.005 to 0.015; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.005 to 0.15.

Two principal spines thick, four-sided prismatic in the basal half, cylindrical or spindle-shaped in the distal half, with simple conical apex. Eighteen smaller spines shorter, thin, bristle-shaped or conical on the base. All twenty spines in the centre perfectly grown together, forming a single piece of acanthin. (Derived from Amphilonche elongata by central concrescence.)

Dimensions.—Length of the two major spines 0.3 to 0.5, breadth 0.01 to 0.03; length of the eighteen minor spines 0.08 to 0.2.

Genus 342. Amphibelone,^[382] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 392.

Definition.—Amphilonchida with two unequal principal spines (the frontal spine very different from the caudal spine); the eighteen smaller spines nearly equal.

The genus Amphibelone exhibits among the Amphilonchida the same remarkable differentiation of the two principal or longitudinal spines, as Zygostaurus among the Quadrilonchida; the frontal spine differs commonly from the caudal spine not only in its size, but also in its peculiar form; commonly one pole of the longitudinal axis is much more strongly developed than the other. The eighteen smaller spines are nearly equal.

Subgenus 1. Amphibelonium, Haeckel.

Definition.—All twenty spines separate, but in contact in the centre and resting one against another by the triangular sides of their pyramidal bases, without a prominent basal leaf-cross.

Two principal spines thick, without edges and wings, the frontal spine short, spindle-shaped, the caudal three to six times as long, cylindrical, both of equal breadth, with simple conical apex and simple pyramidal base, without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines very thin, bristle-shaped, of the same length as the frontal spine. Central capsule cylindrical or spindle-shaped, enveloping the two principal spines nearly throughout their whole length.

Dimensions.—Length of the frontal spine 0.2 to 0.4, of the caudal spine 1.0 to 2.0; breadth of both 0.01; length of the eighteen smaller spines 0.1 to 0.3.

Two principal spines broad, two-edged, knife-shaped; two opposite in the equatorial plane, thin and broad wings or lamellæ are developed, and these enclose the proximal part of both spines, whilst their distal part is free, cylindrical, with conical apex: the two wings of the longer caudal spine are lanceolate, twice to four times as broad as the two wings of the shorter frontal spine; their base is a simple pyramid without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines conical, with bristle-shaped prolongation, one-fourth to one-half as long as the frontal spine. Central capsule green, semitransparent.

Dimensions.—Length of the frontal spine 0.1 to 0.2, breadth 0.02 to 0.03; length of the caudal spine 0.2 to 0.4, breadth 0.04 to 0.08; length of the eighteen smaller spines 0.05 to 0.15.

Two principal spines four-winged, with four crossed, very thin and broad wings, which are somewhat broader in the convex middle part than at either end; both ends of each spine four-sided pyramidal, with four concave edges and a very small terminal pyramid; base without leaf-cross. The longer caudal spine is twice as broad at the distal end as at its proximal end, and three times as broad as the distal end of the shorter frontal spine. Eighteen smaller spines bristle-shaped, with four-sided pyramidal bases. Central capsule pyramidal, enveloping the two principal spines throughout their whole length; the base of the slender quadrangular pyramid is on the caudal, the apex on the frontal pole of the longitudinal axis.

Dimensions.—Length of the frontal spine 0.2 to 0.25, distal breadth 0.01; length of the caudal spine 0.3 to 0.4, distal breadth 0.03; length of the eighteen smaller spines 0.04 to 0.08.

Amphilonche anomala, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 394, Taf. xvi. fig. 8, Taf. xviii. figs. 23a, 23b.

Acanthometra anomala, Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 808.

Two principal spines four-winged, nearly prismatic, with four crossed, very broad and thick wings; both ends of each spine four-sided pyramidal, with four concave edges and a very small terminal pyramid; base without leaf-cross. The edges of the four wings are concave on the shorter frontal, convex on the longer caudal spine. Eighteen smaller spines only one-fourth to one-half as long, linear, two-edged, with two parallel teeth on the distal end. Central capsule four-sided prismatic, olive-green, enveloping almost completely the two principal spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the frontal spine 0.12, middle breadth 0.016; length of the caudal spine 0.14, middle breadth 0.024; length of the eighteen smaller spines 0.04 to 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Amphibelithium, Haeckel.

Definition.—All twenty spines grown together in the centre, forming a single star-shaped piece of acanthin.

Two principal spines roundish, without edges and wings; the smaller frontal spine elongate conical, the larger caudal spine two to four times as long, cylindrical, in the distal part spindle-shaped or club-shaped, with conical apex. Central base simple pyramidal, without leaf-cross. Eighteen smaller spines much shorter, bristle-shaped. Central capsule very long, club-shaped. All twenty spines perfectly grown together in the centre.

Dimensions.—Length of the frontal spine 0.12, of the caudal spine 0.4 to 0.8; frontal breadth 0.01, caudal breadth 0.03; length of the eighteen smaller spines 0.05.

Genus 343. Acantholonche,^[383] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 466.

Definition.—Amphilonchida with two equal principal spines (frontal and caudal spines not different). The eighteen smaller spines are very unequal, ten of them (eight tropical and two transverse equatorial spines) much larger than the rudimentary eight polar spines.

The genus Acantholonche differs from its ancestral genus Amphilonche in the different shape of the eight tropical and the eight polar spines; these latter are much smaller than the former, which are almost equal to the two transverse equatorial spines. The two principal spines are equal, but in size and shape very different from the others.

Two principal spines stout, quadrangular prismatic in the basal half, cylindrical or spindle-shaped in the distal half, with simple conical apex; base a small pyramid without leaf-cross. Two transverse and eight tropical spines, about half as long as the former, very thin, bristle-shaped, conical at the basal part. Eight polar spines very small, scarcely one-eighth or one-fourth as long as the latter, short pyramidal or conical, often quite rudimentary. Central capsule cylindrical, enveloping the basal half of the two principal spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the two principal spines 0.4 to 0.5, of the ten smaller spines 0.2 to 0.3, of the eight rudimentary polar spines 0.01 to 0.06; breadth of the two large spines 0.02 to 0.03.

Two principal spines quadrangular prismatic, with four broad prominent lamellar wings, of increasing breadth towards the pyramidal distal apex. Both ends of each spine four-sided pyramidal, base without leaf-cross. Two transverse and eight tropical spines about two-thirds as long as the former, four-sided pyramidal in the basal half, conical in the distal half, often curved. Eight polar spines very small, about one-fourth as long as the latter, short conical or pyramidal. Central capsule four-sided prismatic, enveloping both principal spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the two principal spines 0.2, of the ten smaller spines 0.12, of the eight rudimentary polar spines 0.04.

Order IV. ACANTHOPHRACTA, Richard Hertwig, 1879.

Acanthometræ cataphractæ, Johannes Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k.

Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, pp. 12, 22, 49.

Dorataspida et Diploconida, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol.,

pp. 404, 412.

Acanthophractida, Richard Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol.,

pp. 25, 137.

Dorataspida, Diploconida, et Sphærocapsida, Haeckel, 1881,

Prodromus, p. 467.

The order Acanthophracta, the fourth order of Radiolaria, comprises all those Acantharia in which the acanthinic skeleton is a complete latticed or fenestrated shell, supported by radial spines arising from one common central point. By the possession of such a complete shell the Acanthophracta differ from their ancestral group, the nearly allied Acanthometra, which represent the older and simpler, first order of Acantharia. All Acanthophracta are Icosacantha (like the Acanthonida, their ancestral group), and possess twenty radial spines disposed according to the Müllerian law (compare above, p. 717).

Johannes Müller, who first observed five representatives of this order, called a part of them "Acanthometræ cataphractæ," and united these with the true Acanthometra (Acanthometra costata and Acanthometra cataphracta; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1858, pp. 12, 49). Another part was united by him with the true Haliomma (Haliomma echinoides, Haliomma hystrix, Haliomma tabulatum; Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, 1858, pp. 36, 37). He supposed that these latter formed the immediate transition from the true Acanthometra to the true Haliomma, and that their skeleton was siliceous.

In my Monograph (1862, p. 412) I founded a separate subfamily, Dorataspida, for the "Acanthometræ cataphractæ," which I considered as the first subfamily of the "Ommatida." That subfamily contained at that time only two genera, Dorataspis (with seven species) and Haliommatidium (with five species). A third genus, Aspidomma (with two species), was united by me with the Haliommatida (because of its double shell). For a fourth genus (Diploconus) with a single species I founded the peculiar family of Diploconida. Therefore the whole number of Acanthophracta described in my Monograph amounted only to four genera and fifteen species. Now the rich collections of the Challenger have added such a great number of new forms, that we may distinguish here thirty-eight genera and two hundred and twelve species.

Richard Hertwig in his excellent work (Der Organismus der Radiolarien, 1879, p. 25) separated his "Acanthophractida" perfectly from the "Ommatida" (or the siliceous Sphæroidea), and united them with the "Acanthometrida" in his order "Acanthometrea." But he separated them also from the nearly allied Diploconida, following my former arrangement. He distinctly noted that the skeleton in all these Acanthophractida (as well as in the Acanthometrida) consists not of silex but of the organic substance "acanthin."

The astonishing number of new and interesting forms of Acanthophracta which I have found in the rich collection of the Challenger enables me to distinguish now in this suborder six different families, two of which are perfectly new (the Sphærocapsida and the Hexalaspida). But the four other families also are so much enlarged that their interesting morphology appears in quite a new and clear light. Far the largest and most important of these six families is that of the true Dorataspida, which embraces seventeen genera and one hundred and eight species (more than the other five families together). From this largest and oldest ancestral family four other families have afterwards arisen, whilst a single family, the Sphærocapsida, seems to possess no direct phylogenetic connection with the five other families.

The peculiar and quite new family of Sphærocapsida (Pl. 133, figs. 7-11; Pl. 135, figs. 6-10) differs from all other Acanthophracta in the singular structure of the spherical acanthinic shell, composed of innumerable small plates or aglets, each of which is pierced by a very small porule. This peculiar pavemented shell (enclosing the central capsule and separated from it by the jelly-like calymma) seems to be produced on the surface of the spherical calymma, immediately by secretion of the pseudopodia, and independently from the twenty radial spines, united in the centre of the sphere. On the twenty points, where the spines perforate the shell, there are originally eighty larger pores (four around each piercing spine); but there is no certain indication that the shell is produced by the meeting apophyses of the twenty spines, as is the case in the five other families of Acanthophracta. Therefore perhaps it is {793}more natural to unite these latter into another suborder as Cladophracta, and to separate them from the Sphærocapsida, which may be called Capsophractæ.

The Dorataspida (Pls. 134-138), the common ancestral stock of the Cladophracta, in the definition here restricted embraces all those Acanthophracta in which the spherical lattice-shell is simple and composed of the meeting branches of twenty radial spines united in its centre. As already pointed out above, this family is probably diphyletic, and embraces two subfamilies which have been derived originally from two different forms of Acanthonida—the Diporaspida (with two opposite apophyses on each spine) derived from the Phractacanthida, and the Tessaraspida (with four crossed apophyses on each spine) derived from the Stauracanthida; in the former we find originally forty apophyses, in the latter eighty apophyses, by the meeting branches of which the spherical lattice-shell originates. The four following families of Acanthophracta have probably been derived from the Diporaspida.

The Phractopeltida (Pl. 133, figs. 1-6) differ from all other Acanthophracta in the possession of a double lattice-shell, composed of two concentric spheres which are united by the twenty radial spines meeting in the centre. As all Phractopeltida possess originally only two apophyses on each radial spine, they must be derived from the Diporaspida (Orophaspis), and bear to them the same relation as the Dyosphærida do to the Monosphærida. As the spherical central capsule of the Phractopeltida is enclosed between both shells, smaller than the outer, larger than the inner shell, the latter may be called "medullary shell," the former "cortical shell." This family represents among the Acanthophracta only the "Diplophracta," whilst all others are "Haplophracta."

The three families here characterised may be called together "Sphærophracta," as their central capsule and the enveloping shell are constantly spherical (or the shell sometimes an "endospherical polyhedron"). On the contrary the following three families of Acanthophracta may be united as "Prunophracta," as their central capsule and shell are never spherical, but either ellipsoidal or lenticular or of another form. The common ancestral stock of this suborder are the Belonaspida, in which the form of the central capsule and the enclosing lattice-shell is ellipsoidal; they are derived from the Dorataspida (and probably all from the subfamily Diporaspida) by the prolongation of two opposite radial spines which are larger than the eighteen others; they are the two equatorial spines of the "hydrotomical axis" (compare above, p. 719, and Pl. 136, figs. 6-9).

The Hexalaspida (Pl. 139) represent a new and very remarkable family, distinguished from all other Acanthophracta by the preponderating development of six stout radial spines, which are much larger than the fourteen others. These six principal spines lie in one meridian plane of the shell (in the "hydrotomical plane," p. 720), and are the two opposite equatorial spines and the four appertaining polar spines of the same plane. {794}As the fourteen smaller spines develop their apophyses at smaller distances from the centre, the shell assumes a peculiar lenticular or discoidal form, and the margin of this disk bears the six larger spines. Moreover the enclosed small central capsule is lenticular. The Hexalaspida may be derived immediately from the Belonaspida.

The Diploconida (Pl. 140) form the last and the most modified family of all Acanthophracta. The remarkable shell exhibits the strange form of a double cone, bearing in its axis two very large opposite spines; these are the two equatorial spines of the "hydrotomical axis" (p. 719). The double-conical or nearly cylindrical shell is composed of three different parts or segments; the small middle part is the true lattice-shell of the Hexalaspida and Belonaspida, and bears the eighteen smaller (often quite rudimentary) radial spines. The two other parts (opposite on both poles of its hydrotomical axis) are the conical or cylindrical, solid, basal sheaths of the two large equatorial spines, enveloping their major part. In consequence of this peculiar metamorphosis of the shell the Diploconida represent the last and the most aberrant group of all Acantharia.

Synopsis of the Suborders and Families of Acanthophracta.

Suborder I. SPHÆROPHRACTA, Haeckel.

Family XXXIX. Sphærocapsida, Haeckel (Pl. 133, figs. 7-11; Pl. 135, figs. 6-10).

Definition.—Acantharia with simple spherical porous shell, composed of innumerable very small plates, each of which is pierced by one radial porule. Twenty radial spines of equal size meeting in the centre of the shell and disposed according to the Müllerian law of the Icosacantha, sometimes short and enclosed in the shell, at other times long and piercing it (rarely rudimentary or quite absent). Shell pierced therefore either by twenty larger perspinal pores or by eighty smaller aspinal pores. Central capsule spherical, enclosed in the porous shell.

The family Sphærocapsida, founded by me in 1881 for the single genus Sphærocapsa, represents a very peculiar and remarkable group of the Acanthophracta, very different from the five other families of this suborder, and probably derived, independently of them, directly from the Acanthonida. Whilst the lattice-shell of the five other families is composed of the meeting branches of lateral apophyses of the twenty spines, and its meshes are all or partly the intervals between these apophyses, in the Sphærocapsida the spherical shell has quite another structure, and is composed of innumerable small plates (each with one pore) which are secreted on the surface of the spherical calymma, independently of the twenty radial spines, which do not possess true apophyses.

In all Sphærocapsida the structure of the spherical shell is quite peculiar and different from that of all other Radiolaria. It is composed everywhere of innumerable very small plates or aglets, which are connected irregularly like paving-stones, and form a single continuous layer or pavement on the surface of the spherical calymma (Pl. 133, fig. 11, a; Pl. 135, figs. 8, 10). The small plates or paving-stones, which we will call "aglets," are connected at their meeting edges by a kind of cement, and form together with it a continuous thick capsule of acanthin. The form of the aglets is commonly more or less irregular, roundish or polygonal, sometimes longish (Pl. 133, fig. 11, a), more rarely it becomes rather regular, hexagonal, square, or roundish (Pl. 135, fig. 8). Usually all aglets of one and the same individual are of nearly equal size, between 0.01 and 0.02 in diameter, rarely less or more. The outer face of the aglets is more or less concave, so that the elevated meeting edges of the neighbouring aglets commonly form together a prominent network of crests (Pl. 135, figs. 8, 10); rarely the meeting edges partly cover one another like squamules (Pl. 133, fig. 11, a). {796}Each small plate or aglet is pierced in its centre by a single radial canalicule or porule. The dimpled surface, so produced, resembles somewhat the dimpled plates of Ceriaspis, &c. Different from these innumerable very small dimples of the surface are the twenty larger "spinal dimples," or the concave larger plates, which are originally pierced by the twenty radial spines. Before we describe these, we must examine the spines themselves.

The twenty radial spines of all observed Sphærocapsida (sixteen species) agree perfectly with those of the genus Acanthonia (p. 749), and especially with Acanthonia tetracopa, Acanthonia denticulata, &c. All twenty spines, regularly disposed according to the Müllerian law of the Icosacantha, are of equal size, constantly four-edged prismatic, of equal breadth throughout their whole length. The prominent four edges are parallel, sometimes smooth, at other times elegantly denticulated. The central bases of the twenty spines are pyramidal, without leaf-cross, and propped one upon another with their triangular faces, as in the majority of the Acanthonida.

The relation of the twenty radial spines to the spherical shell exhibits in the five genera described very peculiar and important differences. In the first described genus, in Sphærocapsa, the spines are exactly as long as the shell-radius, and therefore are not prominent over the surface of the shell, with which they are firmly connected; the truncated distal end of the spine lies therefore here in the surface of the shell itself, and is connected with it by its four edges, between which four open aspinal pores remain, as in Tessaraspis, &c. (Pl. 135, figs. 6-10). In the next allied genus, Astrocapsa (Pl. 133, figs. 9, 10), the spines are longer than the shell-radius, and therefore more or less prominent over its surface; the piercing part of each spine is also surrounded by four aspinal pores. In the two following genera, Porocapsa and Cannocapsa (Pl. 133, figs. 7, 8), the radial spines are shorter than the shell-radius and therefore quite hidden and withdrawn inside the shell, which they do not reach. But in the ideal prolongation of each spine the shell is pierced by a single large opening, the "perspinal pore" or "perspinal hole," composed of the four united aspinal pores. Whilst in Porocapsa the perspinal pores are simple, they are prolonged in Cannocapsa into cylindrical tubes, open at both ends. The twenty perspinal holes of these Porocapsida are therefore derived by confluence of the eighty original aspinal pores of the Astrocapsida and preserve the same regular disposition, according to the Müllerian law of the Icosacantha. Finally, the same law as is valid also in the last genus is found in Cenocapsa; here the radial spines have completely disappeared, and the whole skeleton is a simple sphere, but of the same structure, and with the same twenty perspinal pores as in Porocapsa. It is very interesting that this spineless Cenocapsa among the Acantharia exhibits the same shell (a simple hollow sphere) as a last reduced form, which Cenosphæra among the Sphærellaria produces as a primitive ancestral form of numerous genera.

The Central Capsule of the Sphærocapsida is spherical, constantly smaller than the enclosing concentric shell, and separated from it by the calymma. Its structure seems to be the same as in the Acanthonida, and specially in the Astrolonchida. The pseudopodia (not yet observed) are probably protruded only through the twenty perspinal holes or the eighty aspinal pores.

Synopsis of the Genera of Sphærocapsida.

Subfamily 1. Astrocapsida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines connected with the porous shell, as long as or longer than its radius. Therefore the shell pierced by eighty aspinal pores (four around each spine).

Genus 344. Sphærocapsa,^[384] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 469.

Definition.—Sphærocapsida with twenty radial spines as long as the radius of the shell, without external prolongation; therefore their distal ends inserted in the perspinal holes, each of which is composed of four aspinal pores.

The genus Sphærocapsa is the most common form of the Sphærocapsida, and comprises those species in which the radial spines are as long as the radius of the shell, and therefore are connected with the margin of its aspinal holes, but not prolonged beyond its surface.

Aspinal holes nearly circular, with flat radially striated margin. Four aspinal pores of each hole rounded equilateral triangular. Porules of the shell simple, without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.4 to 0.5, of the central capsule 0.3 to 0.4.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel (Gulf Stream), 1880, John Murray, surface.

Aspinal holes four-lobed, with broad concave margin denticulated on the periphery. Four aspinal pores of each hole pear-shaped, oblong, elevated in the centre. Porules of the shell simple, without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines denticulate.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3 to 0.4, of the central capsule 0.2 to 0.3.

Aspinal holes square, with concave umbilicus in the centre, surrounded by a convex denticulated margin. Four aspinal pores of each hole nearly square. Shell-porules with a polygonal elevated smooth ring, in the bottom of a shallow dimple. Four edges of the spines smooth.

Aspinal holes four-lobed, with broad concave, irregularly crenated and figured margin. Four aspinal pores of each hole violin-shaped. Porules of the shell surrounded by an irregularly oblong ring with thick elevated, elegantly crenated margin. Four edges of the spines smooth.

Genus 345. Astrocapsa,^[385] n. gen.

Definition.—Sphærocapsida with twenty radial spines longer than the radius of the shell, piercing its perspinal holes, with free external prolongation; therefore with four aspinal pores around each spine.

The genus Astrocapsa differs from the preceding Sphærocapsa in the external prolongation of the radial spines piercing the perspinal holes; it assumes therefore the common shape of the Dorataspida more than the other Sphærocapsida do.

Aspinal holes circular, with smooth convex margin and four circular aspinal pores. Porules of the shell simple, without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines smooth, their outer free part about as long as the diameter of the shell.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel, Gulf Stream (expedition of H.M.S "Triton," August, 1882), John Murray, surface.

Aspinal holes cruciform, with high crenated margin. Four aspinal pores of each hole egg-shaped. Porules of the shell simple, without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines denticulate; their outer free part twice to three times as long as the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.36; outer length of the spines 0.5 to 0.8.

Aspinal holes four-lobed, with four prominent teeth between the four roundish aspinal pores. Porules of the shell surrounded by a high polygonal smooth ring. Four edges of the spines denticulate; their outer free part about as long as the radius of the shell.

Aspinal holes circular, with a coronet of numerous thin parallel teeth. Porules of the shell in dimples on irregular polygonal small plates, with coronated ring. Four edges of the spines denticulate; their outer free part about twice as long as the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.4 to 0.5 ; outer length of the spines 1.0 to 1.2.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel, Gulf Stream (expedition of the "Knight Errant," 1880), John Murray, surface and at depths varying from 10 to 200 fathoms.

Subfamily 2. Porocapsida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines not connected with the porous shell, shorter than its radius; therefore the shell pierced by twenty perspinal pores (each one in the ideal radial prolongation of one spine).

Genus 346. Porocapsa,^[386] n. gen.

Definition.—Sphærocapsida with twenty radial spines shorter than the radius of the shell; therefore their distal ends not connected with the twenty perspinal holes, which are simple, not prolonged into radial tubes.

The genus Porocapsa and the following Cannocapsa form together the small sub-family of Porocapsida, distinguished by the peculiar reduction or retrograde development of the twenty radial spines; all these twenty are present and disposed according to the Müllerian law of the Icosacantha, but they are shorter than the radius of the shell and therefore do not reach it. In the ideal prolongation of the spines the shell is pierced by twenty simple quadrangular or circular perspinal holes.

Perspinal holes cruciform, with smooth thickened margin or with four short teeth between the four lobes. Porules of the shell simple, without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines smooth. (Differs from Sphærocapsa cruciata, Pl. 135, figs. 6, 7, living in the same locality, mainly in the reduction of the radial spines, which do not reach the shell.)

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel, Gulf Stream (expedition of H.M.S. "Triton," August 1882), John Murray, surface and in depths from 40 to 640 fathoms.

Perspinal holes cruciform, with four triangular prominent teeth between the four lobes of the cross. Porules of the shell with an elevated polygonal ring, in the bottom of a dimple. Four edges of the spines elegantly denticulate.

Perspinal holes square, with four larger prominent teeth on the sides of the square, and four smaller teeth on its corners. Porules of the shell surrounded by an elevated ring with elegantly crenated irregular margin. Four edges of the spines smooth.

Habitat.—Arctic Ocean (Greenland), in the contents of the stomach of the Peromedusa, Periphylla hyacinthina.

Perspinal holes circular, with ciliated margin, which forms a crown of sixteen to twenty-four thin parallel teeth. Poruli of the shell surrounded by an elevated ring with high crenated margin. Four edges of the spines denticulate.

Genus 347. Cannocapsa,^[387] n. gen.

The genus Cannocapsa, exhibits the same peculiar reduction of the radial spines as the foregoing Porocapsa; the spines are also here shorter than the shell-radius and do not therefore reach the perspinal holes of the shell. But whilst these latter are simple in Porocapsa, they are prolonged into radial tubules in Cannocapsa; the outer surface bears therefore twenty such cylindrical tubules, separated by a short distance from the inner enclosed spines, but disposed quite regularly according to the law of Icosacantha.

Perspinal holes prolonged into short cylindrical tubuli, the length of which about equals their diameter. Both ends of the tubuli with smooth thickened margin. Poruli of the shell simple, without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines smooth; their length equals about four-fifths of the shell-radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.24; length of the spines 0.09, of the tubuli 0.01.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Færöe Channel (Gulf Stream), surface, John Murray.

Perspinal holes prolonged into cylindrical tubuli, half as long as the shell radius. Both ends of the tubuli with smooth thin trumpet-shaped margins. Poruli of the shell simple, without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines smooth; their length about equals three-fourths of the shell-radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2; length of the spines 0.08, of the tubuli 0.05.

Perspinal holes prolonged into cylindrical tubuli, which are as long as or longer then the shell-radius. Both ends of the tubuli with smooth thickened margin. Poruli of the shell simple, {802}without ring and dimple. Four edges of the spines smooth; their length scarcely equals half the shell-radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15; length of the spines 0.03, of the tubuli 0.08.

Subfamily 3. Cenocapsida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Radial spines completely reduced and absent; shell cavity therefore simple; shell pierced by twenty perspinal pores (each placed in the direction of one radial spine which has disappeared).

Genus 348. Cenocapsa,^[388] n. gen.

Definition.—Sphærocapsida without radial spines, with simple cavity of the spherical shell, which is pierced by twenty perspinal holes (each one placed in the radial direction of one spine which has disappeared).

The genus Cenocapsa comprises only a single species, but is very remarkable in that it is the most reduced form among all Sphærocapsida. The twenty radial spines of the Icosacantha have perfectly disappeared by complete retrograde metamorphosis, and the only evidence of their former existence (in the ancestral genus Porocapsa) are the twenty perspinal holes remaining in the shell. Cenocapsa is the only form of Acantharia which possesses no radial spines.

Perspinal holes four-lobed, cruciform, with four short triangular teeth between the four lobes of the cross. Poruli of the shell in the bottom of an elliptical dimple surrounded by an elevated ring.

Family XL. Dorataspida, Haeckel (Pls. 134-138).

Definition.—Acantharia with simple spherical lattice-shell, composed of the branched apophyses of twenty equal radial spines meeting in its centre and disposed according to the Müllerian law of Icosacantha. Central capsule spherical, enclosed in the fenestrated shell.

The family Dorataspida is the most important family of the Acanthophracta, or of those Acantharia in which the radial spines are connected by a complete extracapsular lattice-shell. The Dorataspida represent probably the ancestral {803}stock of this whole order, with the exception of the Sphærocapsida. The four following families of the order may be easily derived from the Dorataspida. The number of genera (seventeen) and of species (one hundred and eight) is in this family greater than in the other five families together. When I constituted that family in my Monograph 1862, it comprised only one genus, Dorataspis, with seven species. The nearly allied genus Haliommatidium (Phatnaspis) belongs to the Belonaspida.

The Dorataspida differ from the other Acanthophracta in the simple spherical lattice-shell, which is composed of the meeting apophyses of the twenty radial spines. In three other families of the suborder the shell is not spherical, but ellipsoidal (Belonaspida), discoidal (Hexalaspida), or diploconical (Diploconida). In the Phractopeltida the spherical shell is double, composed of two concentric lattice-spheres. In the Sphærocapsida the simple spherical shell is not composed of the apophyses of the spines, but of innumerable small plates.

The family Dorataspida may be divided into two very different subfamilies, which are probably derived, independently of one another, from two different subfamilies of the Astrolonchida. The first subfamily, Diporaspida, exhibits on each radial spine two opposite apophyses, like its ancestral group, the Phractacanthida (p. 753); whereas the second subfamily, Tessaraspida, possesses on each radial spine four crossed apophyses (opposite in pairs), like its ancestral group, the Stauracanthida (p. 758). Therefore the composition of the spherical shell, produced by the meeting branches of the tangential apophyses, is essentially different in the two subfamilies: in the Diporaspida each radial spine is surrounded by two opposite primary aspinal meshes, in the Tessaraspida by four crossed primary aspinal meshes.

Another principle of division may be established for the whole family by the different mode of composition of the shell, and regarding this important difference we may distinguish also two different subfamilies as Cladophracta and Peltophracta. In the first and simpler subfamily, the Cladophracta, the shell is composed totally (or sometimes partially) of the meeting branches of the apophyses of the neighbouring spines; but in each single spine (or in the most part of them) the branches of the apophyses are not united, and form no lattice-plate (Pl. 137, figs. 1 to 8). Whereas in the Peltophracta the shell is composed constantly of twenty perforated plates, as in each single spine the branches of its apophyses are united and form a fenestrated shield with two or four (and sometimes numerous) pores (Pls. 135, 136, 138).

In the Diporaspida as well as in the Tessaraspida we find numerous representatives of the two groups of the Cladophracta and of the Peltophracta; therefore the whole family of Dorataspida may be divided into four different tribes. The Diporaspida (with two opposite apophyses on each spine) are partly Cladophracta (the Phractaspida, Pl. 137, figs. 1-4), partly Peltophracta (the Ceriaspida, Pl. 138). On the other hand the Tessaraspida (with four crossed apophyses on each {804}spine) are also partly Cladophracta (the Stauraspida, Pl. 137, figs. 5-8), partly Peltophracta (the Lychnaspida, Pls. 135-136). The differences and relations of these tribes are placed synoptically in the following table:—

All Dorataspida are true Icosacantha, and the twenty spines, composing the spherical shell, are equally developed, regularly disposed according to the Müllerian law, and of equal size; also the distance of their plates from the common centre is equal. Nevertheless they are never of perfectly the same form; in consequence of their peculiar disposition in five zones (each with four spines) certain slight differences are effected, so that with accurate knowledge of the peculiar shell-composition it is generally not difficult to distinguish the spines of the equatorial, the two tropical, and the two polar zones.

Already the central bases, by which the twenty spines are united in the centre of the sphere, exhibit certain differences in the five zones. Commonly these bases are small pyramids, all meeting with their apex in the centre, and the triangular faces of the neighbouring pyramids are supported one upon another. The four equatorial pyramids are commonly six-sided, the other sixteen five-sided; but sometimes there are eight six-sided and twelve five-sided basal pyramids; two opposite polar spines on each pole having a six-sided base (like the four equatorial), the other two polar spines on each pole having a five-sided base (like the eight tropical). Rarely the central bases are perfectly grown together, forming a single spherical central piece of acanthin.

The three different fundamental forms of radial spines, which are found in all Acantharia, the cylindrical, the two-edged, and the four-edged (spines with circular, with elliptical, and with square transverse section respectively) occur also in the different groups of Dorataspida; but commonly the two-edged or compressed form is prevalent in the Diporaspida, the four-edged or quadrangular form in the Tessaraspida. In the majority of species the spines are thickened in the shell-face, where the apophyses arise, and thinner towards the two ends. Usually the outer or distal part of the spine (outside the shell) is longer than the inner or proximal part (inside {805}the shell). The distal apex is commonly simple, conical or pyramidal, rarely bifid or truncate. The edges of the spines are commonly smooth, rarely denticulate or serrate.

The apophyses, or the lateral transverse processes of the radial spines, in the Dorataspida assume the greatest variety and complexity in form, size, mode of ramification, and in composition of the shell. An expert and practised observer may determine easily the range of each spine, whether it be an equatorial (c), or a tropical (b, d), or a polar spine (a, e, Pls. 133-138). The two opposite apophyses of the Diporaspida, as well as the four crossed apophyses of the Tessaraspida, lie constantly in certain meridian planes of the spine, which have a legitimate signification for each of the five zones. The comparative morphology of this regular disposition of the apophyses and the regular meeting of their branches is of the greatest interest, and necessary for the complete understanding of the complicated structure of these wonderful shells.

The pores or meshes of the spherical shell, offering the most varied forms, may generally be divided into two different groups, into sutural and parmal meshes. The sutural pores are bordered by the meeting branches of the apophyses of two, three, or four neighbouring spines, and therefore also by the sutures in which they meet. The parmal pores on the other hand are bordered only by the united branches of the apophyses of a single spine and pierce the shield or lattice-plate formed by them. Therefore the shell-meshes of the Cladophracta are all sutural pores (Pl. 137, figs. 1-8; rarely and only in a part of the spines parmal pores also: Zonaspis, Dodecaspis); whereas the shell-meshes of the Peltophracta, piercing the shields or lattice-plates of all twenty spines, are always partly sutural, partly parmal pores (Pls. 135, 136, 138). The parmal pores again may be divided into two different groups—aspinal and coronal pores. Aspinal pores ("ad spinam") are those which lie immediately on the sides of the radial spine and are bordered by the primary branches of its apophyses; therefore constantly only two in the Diporaspida, four in the Tessaraspida. Coronal pores on the contrary are those which lie in the periphery of the lattice-plates, surrounding in a circle or crown the aspinal pores and not touching the spine itself. In Dorataspis, Ceriaspis, Tessaraspis, Lychnaspis, &c., all parmal meshes are only aspinal pores (Pl. 135, figs. 2-5; Pl. 136); whilst in Coscinaspis, Acontaspis, Icosaspis, Hylaspis, &c., one part of the parmal pores is aspinal, one part coronal (Pl. 136). The number, form, and size of the coronal pores is very variable and often very large (sometimes more than a hundred in one plate).

The Cladophracta exhibit a comparatively simple shell-formation; either all twenty spines or at least a part of them not forming lattice-plates. The most primitive form among these is Phractaspis (Pl. 137, figs. 1, 2). The forty apophyses of its twenty spines are simply forked, and their eighty fork-branches united by forty sutures, enclosing twenty-two sutural meshes: two square polar meshes (between the four polar spines on the poles of the spineless axis, a a a a and e e e e); eight triangular {806}circumpolar meshes (each between two polar and one tropical spine, a b a and e d e); eight quadrangular tropical meshes (each between one polar, one equatorial, and two tropical spines, a b c b and e d c d); and four rhomboidal equatorial meshes (between two tropical and two equatorial spines, c b c d). If the fork-branches be again forked (Phractaspidium, Pl. 137, fig. 3), the number of the sutures and sutural meshes is doubled, and the same is the case in Stauraspis, the most simple form of the Tessaraspida.

A peculiar small group, and an interesting transition for the Cladophracta to the Peltophracta, is presented by the Zonaspida among the Tessaraspida (Zonaspis and Dodecaspis). Here only one part of the radial spines bears lattice-plates, the other part not. In Zonaspis the four equatorial spines bear lattice-plates, the sixteen other only free branches of the apophyses. In Dodecaspis twelve spines are provided with lattice-plates (four equatorial and eight polar spines), whilst the eight other (tropical) spines are devoid of them.

The Peltophracta exhibit a great variety in the form and composition of their twenty lattice-plates or fenestrated shields. In the most simple case (a part of Dorataspis and Diporaspis) the shell is composed of four (equatorial) hexagonal plates, and sixteen pentagonal plates (four tropical and four polar); in this case the four polar plates meet on each pole in one common point. More commonly, however, the shell seems to be composed of eight hexagonal plates (four equatorial and the four polar spines of the hydrotomical plane) and twelve pentagonal plates (eight tropical and the four polar spines of the geotomical plane); in this case only two (hexagonal) polar plates meet on each pole in a suture which separates the two other (pentagonal) polar plates (Pl. 138, fig. 4). In the majority of the Dorataspida the composition of the shell is much more complicated and often very difficult to understand. Often the surface of the plates is covered with a network of elevated crests, by which concave blind dimples are separated (Ceriaspis, Hystrichaspis, Pl. 138); and sometimes these dimples become pierced by coronal pores (Pl. 138, fig. 11, &c.).

Peculiar by-spines or "accessory spines" cover the outer surface of the shell in a great part of Dorataspida, and commonly these most characteristic by-spines are not placed radially, but parallel to the radial spine, from the lattice-plate of which they arise (Pl. 135, figs. 1, 5; Pl. 137, figs. 4-8; Monogr. d. Radiol., 1862, Taf. xxi. figs. 8, 9). They are commonly placed perpendicular to the sutural condyles, or the branch-ends of the apophyses; so that close to each suture arises a pair of divergent by-spines, belonging to the meeting apophyses of the two neighbouring spines, which meet in the suture (Pl. 137, fig. 4). Rarely these thin, bristle-shaped by-spines are quite simple and straight, commonly they undulate or are zigzag and often armed with recurved hooks. Sometimes they are also forked or arborescent (Pl. 138, fig. 7).

The Central Capsule of the Dorataspida is constantly spherical and about one-third smaller than the enclosing shell, from which it is separated by the spherical calymma. {807}The membrane of the central capsule is commonly rather thin, and pierced by the twenty radial spines, meeting in the centre of the capsule. Between these lie innumerable small pores for the radiating pseudopodia; however, in many cases (and perhaps constantly) these pores exhibit a certain regular disposition. In many species the central capsule encloses Xanthellæ or symbiotic yellow unicellular Algæ. The nucleus becomes cleft very early in the majority of Dorataspida.

Synopsis of the Genera of Dorataspida.

Subfamily 1. Diporaspida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty radial spines, each of which bears two opposite apophyses. The spherical shell is composed either of the meeting branches of these apophyses (Phractaspida), or of twenty perforated plates, produced by concrescence of their branches (Ceriaspida).

A. Tribe I. Phractaspida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Dorataspida without perforated plates; the spherical shell is composed only of the meeting branches of the two opposite apophyses, which arise from each radial spine. Therefore the meshes of the shell are all sutural.

Genus 349. Phractaspis,^[389] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 467.

Definition.—Dorataspida without perforated plates; shell composed only of the meeting branches of the two opposite apophyses, which arise from each radial spine. Condyles of the branch-ends without by-spines.

The genus Phractaspis is the most simple and primitive form among all Dorataspida, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form either of this whole family, or at least of its first subfamily, the Diporaspida. In all members of this subfamily the spherical shell is composed of twenty radial spines, each of which bears two opposite apophyses; but the mode of composition is different in the two tribes of the subfamily, in the Phractaspida and Ceriaspida. In the simpler tribe, the Phractaspida, the shell is composed only of the meeting branches of the apophyses of neighbouring spines; there are no peculiar perforated plates or shields. In the Ceriaspida, however, both apophyses of each single spine form a perforated plate or shield by union of their branches, and the shell is formed of the meeting edges of these shields. Of course the Ceriaspida must be derived from the simpler Phractaspida. Phractaspis, as the common ancestral form of both, exhibits a very simple structure of the shell (Pl. 137, figs. 1, 2). Commonly, if the fork-branches of each apophysis be not again branched, the shell possesses only twenty-two large meshes and forty sutures. More rarely their number increases, the fork-branches of the apophyses being again branched (Phractaspidium, Pl. 137, fig. 3).

Subgenus 1. Phractasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell with twenty-two meshes, and forty sutures, each spine with only four branches, its two apophyses being simply forked.

Radial spines cylindrical, thin, pointed; the outer and inner halves of nearly equal size. Each spine bears in its middle part two opposite apophyses, which are simply forked; the four condyles of each spine (or the thickened ends of the fork-branches) are united with the meeting condyles of the neighbouring spines by sutures. Therefore the network of the spherical shell is composed of twenty-two large meshes: two square polar meshes on each pole (a a a a and e e e e); eight triangular circumpolar meshes (each between two polar and one tropical spine, a b a and e d e); eight tropical rhomboidal meshes (each between one polar, one equatorial, and two tropical spines: a b c b and e d c d); and four rhomboidal equatorial meshes (each between two tropical and two equatorial spines c b c d).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, of the meshes 0.03 to 0.04; breadth of the spines and bars 0.005.

Habitat.—Cosmopolitan; Mediterranean (Corfu), Atlantic (Stations 348, 354), Indian Ocean (Ceylon), Pacific (Stations 253, 265, 274), &c., surface.

Radial spines leaf-shaped, strongly compressed, two-edged, pointed; their outer part longer than the inner. Each spine with two opposite apophyses which are simply forked, therefore with four condyles. The network with forty sutures and twenty-two large meshes, as in the foregoing species. The broad faces of the eight polar spines lie in two meridian planes, of the four equatorial spines in the equatorial plane, of the eight tropical spines in two planes parallel to the latter. The planes of the leaf-shaped fork-branches lie in the spherical face.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, of the meshes 0.02 to 0.03; breadth of the fork-branches 0.012.

Radial spines quadrangular, thin; their outer pyramidal part shorter than the inner. Each spine with four branches, its two opposite apophyses being simply forked. The eighty condyles (or sutural ends of the branches) much thickened, twice to four times as broad as the branches themselves. Network with forty sutures and twenty-two large meshes, as in both foregoing species.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the meshes 0.03 to 0.04; breadth of the condyles 0.01.

Dorataspis bipennis, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 413, Taf. xxi. figs. 1, 2.

Phractasplenium bipenne, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Radial spines very thin, quadrangular; their outer pyramidal part shorter than the inner. Each spine with four bent branches, its two opposite apophyses being simply forked. Eighty {810}condyles, very thin, pointed. In the specimens of this remarkable species, which I first observed in Messina, two opposite equatorial spines had quite free apophyses, not connected with the neighbouring spines; therefore the thin lattice-work of the shell exhibited only thirty-six sutures and twenty meshes (two meshes with six sutures, six meshes with four sutures, and twelve meshes with three sutures). In similar specimens, which I afterwards observed in the Canary Islands, all four equatorial spines were connected in the same manner with the neighbouring spines; therefore they possessed forty sutures and twenty-two meshes, like Phractaspis prototypus (Pl. 137, fig. 2). Perhaps the Mediterranean species represents a peculiar genus, Phractasplenium bipenne.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, of the meshes 0.03 to 0.05; breadth of the spines 0.002.

Subgenus 2. Phractaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell with forty to eighty or more meshes, and eighty to one hundred or more sutures. Each spine with six to eight or more branches, its two apophyses being doubly forked or more ramified.

Radial spines strongly compressed, two-edged, pointed; their outer half twice constricted and somewhat longer than the inner half. Each spine with two opposite forked apophyses, the branches of which are again forked; therefore eight condyles on each spine. The network of the spherical shell with eighty sutures and sixty-two meshes (twenty-two large primary meshes and forty smaller secondary meshes, the latter between the distal fork-branches).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11, of the large meshes 0.04 to 0.05, of the small meshes 0.01; breadth of the spines 0.01.

Acanthometra cataphracta, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 49, Taf. x. figs. 7, 8.

Dorataspis cataphracta, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 415.

Radial spines thin, quadrangular; their outer pyramidal part shorter than the inner. Each spine with six to eight condyles, the fork-branches of their two opposite apophyses being (all or partly) again forked. The network with sixty to eighty sutures and meshes: sometimes as regular as in the preceding species, at other times more or less irregular.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, of the meshes 0.02 to 0.04; breadth of the bars 0.004 to 0.008.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Cette), Müller (Messina), Haeckel; North Atlantic, Station 353, surface.

Genus 350. Pleuraspis,^[390] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 467.

The genus Pleuraspis has quite the same structure of the shell as the foregoing Phractaspis, and differs from it only in the development of external by-spines; commonly each condyle of the branch end of the apophyses bears one zigzag by-spine, which is directed parallel to the radial main-spine from which the apophyses arise. Therefore each suture of the shell is armed with two divergent by-spines (Pl. 137, fig. 4).

Subgenus 1. Pleurasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell regularly developed with twenty-two meshes and forty sutures (sometimes twenty to twenty-four meshes and thirty-six to forty-eight sutures); each spine commonly with four branches, its two apophyses being simply forked.

Radial spines roundish, somewhat compressed, very thick, conical, pointed at both ends, outer part nearly twice as long as the inner. Two apophyses of each spine simply forked, with short and broad branches and thickened condyles. Forty sutures, very broad. Twenty-two large meshes three to four times as broad as the bars. By-spines much developed, as long as the radius, zigzag, with alternating recurved hooks.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, of the meshes 0.04 to 0.06; breadth of the bars 0.01 to 0.015.

Radial spines two-edged, leaf-shaped, strongly compressed, pointed at both ends; outer half longer than the inner. Two apophyses of each spine simply forked, with short and very broad branches; condyles not thickened. Forty sutures, broad. Twenty-two large meshes twice to three times as broad as the bars. By-spines zigzag, half as long as the radius. (Resembles Phractaspis complanata, Pl. 137, fig. 1.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the meshes 0.02 to 0.03; bars 0.012.

Acanthometra costata, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 49, Taf. ii. fig. 1, Taf. x. figs. 4-6.

Dorataspis costata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 414, Taf. xxiii. fig. 1.

Radial spines roundish, conical, pointed at both ends; outer and inner halves of nearly equal length. Two apophyses of each spine simply forked, with broad branches and thickened condyles. Forty sutures, broad. Twenty-two large meshes, four to five times as broad as the bars. By-spines straight, denticulate, half as long as the radius. (This common species is rather variable in size and details.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.13, meshes 0.03 to 0.06, bars 0.005 to 0.01.

Radial spines quadrangular, their outer part pyramidal, very thick, about half as long as the prismatic inner part. Two apophyses of each spine simply forked, with very short and broad branches. Condyles much thickened. Forty sutures, very broad. Twenty-two meshes small, the largest twice as broad as the bars; the smaller only half as broad. By-spines short, straight, denticulate, half as long as the radius.

Subgenus 2. Pleuraspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell with forty to eighty or more meshes and eighty to one hundred or more sutures; each spine with six to eight or more branches, its two apophyses being forked twice or oftener.

Radial spines roundish, stout, somewhat compressed; their inner and outer half nearly of equal length. Two apophyses of each spine doubly forked or more irregularly branched; therefore commonly eight (sometimes six, seven, nine, or ten to twelve) thickened condyles on each spine. Sutures eighty to one hundred, broad. Irregular meshes sixty to eighty; three to five times as broad as the bars. By-spines zigzag, ramified, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, of the meshes 0.007 to 0.014, breadth of the bars 0.003.

B. Tribe II. Ceriaspida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Dorataspida, the spherical shell of which is composed of twenty perforated plates, produced by union of the branches of the two opposite apophyses, which arise from each radial spine. Therefore the meshes of the shell are partly sutural, partly parmal.

Genus 351. Dorataspis,^[391] Haeckel, 1860, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 811.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by forty aspinal pores (two pores in each plate). Surface of the shell without combs, dimples, and by-spines.

The genus Dorataspis opens the long series of the Ceriaspida, or of those Dorataspida in which the shell is composed of twenty plates, each of which is perforated by two primary aspinal pores. This tribe has arisen from the simpler Phractaspida by reunion of the branches of the apophyses in each single spine. If in Phractaspis, their common ancestral form (Pl. 137, figs. 1, 2), the neighbouring fork-branches of both opposite apophyses in each radial spine become recurved and united, they will produce a shield, which is perforated by two pores and between them by the spine itself. These two "primary aspinal pores" are characteristic of all Ceriaspida; among these Dorataspis itself is the most simple form. Its shell exhibits therefore constantly forty aspinal pores, and besides these a variable number of "sutural pores" (in the sutures between the twenty plates). If in each suture there be only a single pore, we get on the whole fifty-two or fifty-four pores; if in each suture there be two or three pores, that number becomes doubled or tripled.

Subgenus 1. Doratasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell with fifty-two sutures; four polar plates on each pole of the main axis meeting in one point (in the pole itself); therefore all eight polar plates pentagonal and of equal size. Spherical shell therefore composed of four (equatorial) hexagonal plates and of sixteen pentagonal (eight tropical and eight polar plates).

Shell with fifty-two sutures and fifty-two sutural meshes, with four hexagonal and sixteen pentagonal plates. Both aspinal meshes of each plate elliptical, twice to four times as broad as the {814}sutural meshes. Radial spines in the outer half fusiform, somewhat longer than the inner cylindrical half.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08 to 0.09, of the parmal meshes 0.1 to 0.2, of the sutural meshes 0.004 to 0.01.

Shell with fifty-two sutures and fifty-two sutural meshes; with four hexagonal and sixteen pentagonal plates. Both aspinal meshes of each plate circular, small, twice as broad as the small sutural meshes. Radial spines quadrangular, prismatic, their outer half twice to three times as long as the inner half.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the parmal pores 0.008, of the sutural meshes 0.004.

Shell with fifty-two sutures and one hundred to one hundred and fifty sutural meshes, with four hexagonal and sixteen pentagonal plates. Both aspinal meshes nearly circular, very large, five to ten times as broad as the small circular sutural meshes; the number of the latter is in this species multiplied, in each suture being two to three (commonly three) small pores. Radial spines in the outer half leaf-shaped, compressed, nearly lanceolate, longer than in the inner cylindrical half.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, of the parmal pores 0.03 to 0.04, of the sutural pores 0.004 to 0.006.

Subgenus 2. Dorataspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell with fifty-four sutures; four polar plates on each pole of the main axis different in pairs; two major hexagonal meeting in a polar suture (the "hydrotomical suture"); two minor pentagonal, not meeting together (separated by that hydrotomical suture). Spherical shell therefore composed of eight hexagonal plates (four equatorial and four polar) and by twelve pentagonal plates (eight tropical and four polar plates).

Dorataspis loricata, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 415, Taf. xxi. figs. 3-6.

Shell with fifty-four sutures and fifty-four sutural meshes, with eight hexagonal and twelve pentagonal plates. Both aspinal meshes of each plate kidney-shaped or roundish, nearly of the {815}same size as the sutural meshes. Radial spines cylindrical; their outer half on the pointed distal end two-edged and longer than the inner half.

Habitat.—Mediterranean (Messina), North Atlantic (Canary Islands), Azores, surface.

Shell with fifty-four crest-like sutures and fifty-four circular sutural meshes, with eight hexagonal and twelve pentagonal plates. Both aspinal meshes of each plate elliptical, twice to three times as broad as the sutural meshes. Aspinal meshes of the four equatorial plates twice as broad as those of the sixteen other plates. The meshes are surrounded by elevated and denticulated crests (incipient spine-sheaths). Radial spines compressed, more or less two-edged; outer pointed half somewhat larger than the inner half. (In this typical species the composition of the shell prevailing in the majority of Ceriaspida is very clear.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15 to 0.18, of the aspinal pores 0.02 to 0.03, of the sutural pores 0.01.

Habitat.—Central Pacific, Stations 270 to 274, surface and in various depths.

Shell with fifty-four sutures and fifty-four very small sutural meshes, with eight hexagonal and twelve pentagonal plates. Both aspinal meshes of each plate elliptical, four to six times as broad as the sutural meshes. Radial spines in the outer half conical, somewhat shorter than in the inner cylindrical half.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11, of the aspinal pores 0.01 to 0.02, of the sutural pores 0.003.

Shell with fifty-four sutures and one hundred to one hundred and twenty sutural meshes, with eight hexagonal and twelve pentagonal plates. Both aspinal meshes elliptical, three times as broad as the small sutural meshes; commonly two meshes in each suture. Radial spines sword-shaped, two-edged, tapering from the shell towards the two ends. (Resembles Belonaspis datura, Pl. 139, fig. 9, but differs in the spherical shell, the equal size of the four equatorial spines, and the absence of by-spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the aspinal pores 0.012, of the sutural pores 0.004.

Shell with fifty-four sutures and one hundred and sixty to two hundred sutural meshes, with eight hexagonal and twelve pentagonal plates. Commonly three meshes (sometimes four) on {816}each suture. Both aspinal meshes kidney-shaped, four times as broad as the small sutural meshes. Radial spines thick, in the inner longer part cylindrical, in the outer shorter part conical. (Differs from all other species in the multiplication of the sutural pores.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, of the aspinal pores 0.016, of the sutural pores 0.004.

Genus 352. Diporaspis,^[392] n. gen.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by forty aspinal pores (two pores in each plate). Surface of the shell without combs and dimples, but armed with numerous by-spines.

The genus Diporaspis has the same characteristic structure of the shell as the typical Dorataspis, and differs from it only in the development of numerous by-spines on the surface. The number of the sutures between the twenty plates is sometimes fifty-two, at other times fifty-four, and in each suture we find occasionally a single pore, at other times two or three such pores.

Subgenus 1. Diporasparium.

Definition.—Shell with fifty-two sutures, four polar plates on each pole of the main axis meeting in one common point; therefore all eight polar plates pentagonal and of equal size. Shell therefore composed of four (equatorial) hexagonal plates, and of sixteen pentagonal (eight tropical and eight polar) plates.

Shell with fifty-two sutures and fifty-two sutural pores, with four hexagonal and sixteen pentagonal plates. Both aspinal pores of each plate kidney-shaped, about twice as broad as the circular sutural pores. Radial spines thin, cylindrical, longer than the radius. By-spines forked, only one-third as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13, parmal pores 0.03, sutural pores 0.07.

Shell with fifty-two sutures and one hundred to one hundred and fifty sutural pores, with four hexagonal and sixteen pentagonal plates. Both aspinal pores of each plate circular, very large, six to eight times as broad as the small circular sutural pores (in each suture two to three pores). {817}Radial spines strongly compressed, two-edged; outer half shorter than the inner. By-spines undulate, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the parmal pores 0.02 to 0.03, of the sutural pores 0.003 to 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Diporaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell with fifty-four sutures, four polar plates on each pole of the main axis different in pairs: two major hexagonal meeting in a polar ("geotomical") suture, two minor pentagonal, not meeting together (separated by that suture). Shell therefore composed of eight hexagonal plates (four equatorial and four polar) and of twelve hexagonal plates (eight tropical and four polar).

Shell with fifty-four sutures and fifty-four circular sutural pores: with eight hexagonal and twelve pentagonal plates. Both aspinal pores of each plate elliptical, three times as broad as the sutural pores. Radial spines compressed, two-edged; outer half shorter than the inner. By-spines very numerous, simple, one-third as long as the radius, forming coronels or elegant circles around the pores (a small coronel around each sutural pore, a large one around each couple of aspinal pores).

This typical species is nearly allied to Dorataspis typica (Pl. 138, fig. 4), and may be derived from it by development of the coronels of by-spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, aspinal pores 0.03, sutural pores 0.01.

Genus 353. Orophaspis,^[393] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by forty aspinal pores (two pores in each plate). Surface of the shell without combs, dimples, and by-spines. Each radial spine bears outside of the shell two opposite free apophyses, which are either simple or branched.

The genus Orophaspis differs not only from its ancestral form, Dorataspis, but from all other Dorataspida in the development of peculiar free apophyses on the radial spines, outside the shell. These apophyses, two being opposite on each spine, appear as a repetition of the primary apophyses of Phractaspis; they are either simple or branched, and sometimes the branches are united together, forming an outer free shield with two or four pores. These outer plates represent the beginning of a second outer shell and form the transition to Phractopelta, the ancestral form of the Phractopeltida.

Subgenus 1. Orophasparium, Haeckel.

Parmal pores of the shell circular, twice as large as the sutural pores and as the breadth of the bars. Radial spines very long, three to six times as long as the diameter of the shell, compressed, two-edged; each with two simple, opposite, triangular apophyses; their distance from the shell equal to its diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05, parmal pores 0.004, sutural pores 0.002.

Parmal pores of the shell circular, of the same size as the sutural pores and the bars. Radial spines thick, spindle-shaped, scarcely longer than the diameter of the shell, each with two simple opposite conical apophyses; their distance from the shell about equal to its radius.

Subgenus 2. Orophaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Free apophyses of the radial spines branched, their branches free (not anastomosing).

Parmal pores of the shell roundish or elliptical, three times as broad as the sutural pores and the bars. Radial spines very long, compressed, each with two opposite apophyses, which are simply forked; their distance from the shell somewhat greater than its diameter.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.06 to 0.08, parmal pores 0.006, sutural pores 0.002.

Parmal pores of the shell circular, of the same size as the sutural pores and the bars. Radial spines compressed, very long, each with two opposite apophyses, which are more or less irregularly branched (commonly between eight and twelve thin branches on each spine); their distance from the shell smaller than its diameter.

Subgenus 3. Stegaspis, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Free apophyses of the radial spines branched, and by reunion of their anastomosing branches forming perforated shields.

Parmal pores of the shell circular, of the same size as the sutural pores and the bars. Radial spines sword-shaped, two-edged, very broad; each spine bears an elliptical free shield with two longish pores (opposite on the two flat sides of the sword). Distance of the twenty free two-pored shields from the shell about equal to its diameter.

Parmal pores of the shell roundish, somewhat larger than the sutural pores and the bars. Radial spines very long, compressed; each spine bears a roundish free shield with four irregular pores disposed in a cruciform manner, the two larger pores being opposite on the flat sides of the spine, the two smaller being opposite but on its two edges. Distance of the twenty free four-pored shields from the shell about equal to its radius.

Genus 354. Ceriaspis,^[394] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by forty aspinal pores (two pores in each plate). Surface of the shell with numerous dimples, separated by a network of elevated combs. No by-spines.

The genus Ceriaspis has the same structure of the shell, as its ancestral form Dorataspis, differing from it only in the development of high combs or crests, which form on the surface of the shell a peculiar elevated network. The dimples or funnel-shaped pits between these combs are either all or partly perforated by the pores of the shell. Both the aspinal pores of each plate are usually placed in one common dimple, whilst each sutural pore is placed in its peculiar smaller dimple.

Subgenus 1. Ceriasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell-surface with seventy to one hundred or more small funnel-shaped dimples, each of which opens on the bottom by one pore or by a couple of {820}apertures; twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates (each with a couple of aspinal pores) and fifty to one hundred or more smaller dimples, each of which contains one sutural pore. No blind dimples between the perforated dimples.

Shell spherical with seventy-two funnel-shaped dimples, each of which is perforated on the bottom by one or two apertures; twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates, each with two elliptical aspinal pores, and fifty-two smaller sutural dimples between them, each with one circular pore of half the size. No blind dimples. Radial spines quadrangular, stout; their outer part shorter than the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, of the forty parmal pores 0.01, of the fifty-two sutural pores 0.005.

Shell spherical, with seventy-four funnel-shaped dimples, each of which is perforated on the bottom by one or two apertures; twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates, each with two kidney-shaped large pores, and fifty-four smaller dimples on the sutures, each with one circular pore of one-fourth of the size of the reniform pores. No blind dimples. Radial spines cylindrical, the outer part longer than the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the forty parmal pores 0.016, of the fifty-four sutural pores 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Ceriaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell-surface with funnel-shaped dimples (commonly one hundred and seventy-six or one hundred and eighty-two), which on the bottom are partly closed, partly perforated by one aperture (or by a pair of pores). The blind dimples are placed on the corners of the twenty plates, and are therefore either one hundred and four or one hundred and eight; if there be no polar suture, the blind dimples are one hundred and four (twenty-four on the four hexagonal equatorial plates, forty on the eight pentagonal tropical plates, and forty on the eight pentagonal polar plates); if, however, there be a polar suture on both main poles, the number of blind dimples is one hundred and eight (twenty-four on the four hexagonal equatorial and twenty-four on the four hexagonal polar plates, two opposite on each pole; forty on the eight pentagonal tropical plates and twenty on the four pentagonal polar plates, two opposite on each pole). Between the blind dimples there are usually seventy-two to seventy-four perforated {821}dimples, twenty larger parmal dimples (enclosing a radial spine and a couple of aspinal pores) and fifty-two to fifty-four sutural dimples (sometimes one hundred or more), each of which encloses one sutural pore.

Shell spherical, with one hundred and seventy-six funnel-shaped dimples, one hundred and four of which are blind and seventy-two perforated; of the latter, each of the fifty-two smaller contains a single sutural pore, each of the twenty larger a couple of aspinal pores. The elliptical or kidney-shaped aspinal pores are about twice as broad as the circular sutural pores. Radial spines thin, compressed, two-edged; their outer prolongation very short, rudimentary, scarcely higher than the axis of the surrounding funnel, and projecting but slightly from its aperture.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, of the forty parmal pores 0.016, of the fifty-two sutural pores 0.008.

Shell polyhedral (icosahedral), with one hundred and eighty-two funnel-shaped dimples, one hundred and eight of which are blind and seventy-four perforated; of the latter, each of the fifty-four smaller contains a single sutural pore, each of the twenty larger a couple of aspinal pores. All pores roundish, nearly of the same size. Radial spines thin, compressed, two-edged; their outer part somewhat longer than the inner.

Shell polyhedral (icosahedral), with one hundred and eighty-two funnel-shaped dimples, one hundred and eight of which are blind and seventy-four perforated; of the latter, each of the fifty-four smaller contains one small sutural pore, each of the twenty larger a couple of aspinal pores. The kidney-shaped aspinal pores are very large, four to six times as broad as the small circular sutural pores. Radial spines strong, quadrangular, their outer part from two to three times as long as the inner part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, of the parmal pores 0.015 to 0.02, of the sutural pores 0.003 to 0.004.

Shell spherical, with two hundred and fifty to three hundred (or more) small funnel-shaped dimples, the majority of which are blind, the minority perforated by pores; of the latter forty {822}are aspinal pores (two at the base of each spine), the others sutural pores. All pores nearly of the same size. As the shell of this species is very dark and thick-walled, it was impossible to obtain more information with regard to the pores. Radial spines very stout; the outer conical part shorter than the inner cylindrical part.

Genus 355. Hystrichaspis,^[395] n. gen.

The genus Hystrichaspis has the same structure with regard to the shell, as its ancestral form Ceriaspis, and differs from the latter only in possessing numerous by-spines. Moreover, in the former the dimples of the shell-surface are either all perforated by pores, or some of them are blind.

Subgenus 1. Hystrichasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell with seventy to one hundred or more funnel-shaped dimples, each of which opens on the bottom by one aperture or by a couple of pores; twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates (each with a couple of pores, sometimes also three couples) and fifty to one hundred or more smaller dimples, each of which contains one sutural pore. No blind dimples between the perforated dimples.

Shell with numerous (one hundred to two hundred?) funnel-shaped dimples, each of which is pierced at the bottom by one or two pores; twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates (each with two aspinal pores), and fifty to one hundred and fifty or more smaller dimples (each with one sutural pore). No blind dimples. Crests between the dimples armed with a continuous series of simple by-spines. Radial main spines stout, in the inner half cylindrical, in the outer conical, more or less compressed.

Shell with numerous (one hundred to two hundred?) funnel-shaped dimples, each of which is pierced at the bottom by one or two pores; twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates (each {823}with two large aspinal pores), and fifty to one hundred and fifty or more smaller dimples (each with one small sutural pore). No blind dimples. Crests between the dimples armed with forked by-spines. Radial main spines stout, leaf-shaped, tapering towards both ends.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, parmal pores 0.01, sutural pores 0.005.

Siphonasphis cristata, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Shell with numerous (one hundred to two hundred?) funnel-shaped dimples, each of which is pierced at the bottom by one or more pores. Twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates are pierced by the radial main-spines; among these fourteen contain each a couple of aspinal pores; six others are much larger, and contain each six larger pores; these six plates are two opposite equatorial plates and four polar plates, placed in the same meridian plane (the "hydrotomical plane"); in each of these six "hydrotomical dimples" two pores are placed opposite to one another on the two edges of the leaf-shaped spine, four others being opposite in pairs on both flat sides of it. By this peculiar structure this species connects the true Hystrichaspis with Hexalaspis and Diploconus; however the twenty spines are of equal length, and the shell continues to be spherical. The twenty radial main-spines are leaf-like and compressed. The crests between the dimples are dentated by a series of small by-spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, of the aspinal pores 0.01, of the sutural pores 0.005.

Subgenus 2. Hystrichaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Shell-surface with numerous funnel-shaped dimples (commonly one hundred and seventy-six to one hundred and eighty-two), which on the bottom are partly closed, partly perforated by one aperture (or by a pair of pores). The blind dimples are situated on the corners of the twenty plates; their number is commonly one hundred and four or one hundred and eight, sometimes more. The perforated dimples, alternating with the former, are usually seventy-two to seventy-four, sometimes more; twenty larger parmal dimples (each with a couple of aspinal pores, sometimes also with three such couples) and fifty-two to fifty-four sutural dimples, sometimes one hundred or more (each with one sutural pore). (Compare the definition of Ceriaspidium, p. 820.)

Shell with one hundred and seventy-six funnel-shaped dimples, one hundred and four of which are blind and seventy-two perforated; of the latter, each of the fifty-two smaller contains a single {824}sutural pore, each of the twenty larger a couple of aspinal pores; the elliptical aspinal pores are twice as broad as the circular sutural pores. The crests between the dimples are armed with simple scattered short by-spines; usually in the nodal points, where three combs meet, there exist three or two divergent by-spines. The twenty radial main-spines are thin and long, compressed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.22, of the aspinal pores 0.02, of the sutural pores 0.01.

Shell with one hundred and seventy-six funnel-shaped dimples, one hundred and four of which are blind and seventy-two perforated; of the latter, each of the fifty-two smaller contains a single sutural pore, each of the twenty larger a couple of aspinal pores. Crests between the dimples comb-like, armed with a series of simple by-spines. Twenty main-spines very stout, in the inner part cylindrical, in the outer shorter part conical.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, of the aspinal pores 0.02, of the sutural pores 0.01.

Shell with one hundred and eighty-two funnel-shaped dimples, one hundred and eight of which are blind and seventy-four perforated; of the latter, each of the fifty-four smaller contains a single sutural pore, each of the twenty larger a couple of aspinal pores. All pores nearly of the same size, very small. Crests between the dimples very high, sulcated, on the free edge serrate with short very numerous, simple by-spines. Radial main-spines very stout and short, conical.

Shell with very numerous (three hundred to four hundred?) small and deep funnel-shaped dimples, the majority of which are blind, the minority perforated; among the latter there are forty larger aspinal pores; the other smaller (scarcely half as large) pores are sutural. Crests between the dimples densely armed with simple short by-spines. Radial main-spines stout, leaf-shaped.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the aspinal pores 0.01, of the sutural pores 0.004.

Shell with numerous (two hundred to three hundred?) funnel-shaped dimples, the majority of which are blind, the minority perforated; among the latter there are forty larger aspinal pores. {825}Crests between the dimples armed with long forked by-spines with divergent fork-branches. Radial spines cylindrical, very long and thick, longer than the diameter of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14, aspinal pores 0.08, sutural pores 0.03.

Shell with numerous (one hundred and fifty to two hundred?) funnel-shaped dimples, the majority of which are blind, the minority perforated; forty aspinal pores elliptical, of the same size as the circular sutural pores. Crests between the dimples bearing elegant arborescent by-spines. Twenty radial main-spines long and thin, cylindrical or a little compressed.

Shell with numerous (two hundred to three hundred?) funnel-shaped dimples, the majority of which are blind, the minority perforated; forty aspinal pores of the same size as the sutural pores. Crests between the dimples covered with denticulated by-spines. Twenty radial main-spines compressed, two-edged, with serrated edges, about as long as the diameter of the shell.

Genus 356. Coscinaspis,^[396] n. gen.

Definition.—Doratispida with twenty plates, which are perforated by eighty to two hundred or more parmal pores (two aspinal and two to ten or more coronal pores in each plate). Surface without by-spines.

The genus Coscinaspis, together with the following nearly allied genus Acontaspis, may be separated from the other Ceriaspida as a peculiar tribe, Coscinaspida. This tribe is characterised by the larger number of the parmal pores. Whilst in all other Ceriaspida this number is constantly forty (only two pores in each plate), here it may be from eighty to two hundred or more; in each shield the two primary "aspinal pores" are surrounded by a circle of two to ten or more (commonly eight to twelve) "coronal pores." The number of sutural pores in this group is also usually larger.

Subgenus 1. Coscinasparium, Haeckel.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface, without crests and dimples, perforated by pores of very different sizes. Forty aspinal pores, roundish or elliptical, of about the same size as the fifty or sixty violin-shaped sutural pores, and three to four times as broad as the small roundish coronal pores, which are irregularly formed and distributed, four to eight occurring on each plate (altogether one hundred to one hundred and twenty). Radial spines roundish, somewhat compressed; inner and outer half nearly of the same length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, aspinal pores 0.01 to 0.012, coronal pores 0.003.

Shell very thin walled, with smooth surface, without crests and dimples, perforated by pores of very different sizes. Forty aspinal pores, roundish, of about the same size as the fifty or sixty violin-shaped sutural pores, their diameter being about one-fifth of that of the plates. Coronal pores very numerous (two hundred to four hundred) and very small, irregularly scattered, ten to twenty occurring in each plate. Sutures strongly denticulated. Radial spines very thin and short, cylindrical.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, aspinal and sutural pores 0.01, coronal pores 0.001 to 0.003.

Shell very thin walled, with smooth surface, without crests and dimples, perforated by very irregular pores of very different sizes and forms; commonly more or less lobed or sinuate. Forty aspinal pores and fifty to eighty sutural pores, larger than the numerous (one hundred to two hundred) irregularly scattered coronal pores. Sutures very sinuate. Radial spines cylindrical, thin and long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15 to 0.18, aspinal and sutural pores 0.01 to 0.02, coronal pores 0.001 to 0.005.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface, without crests and dimples, perforated by very numerous pores of circular form, but of different sizes. Forty aspinal pores and one hundred to two hundred {827}sutural pores much larger than the coronal pores, which are very small and very numerous (fifty to sixty on each plate). Sutures sinuate. Radial spines compressed, outer and inner half nearly of equal length.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3, aspinal and sutural pores 0.01 to 0.015, coronal pores 0.001 to 0.002.

Shell very thin walled, with smooth surface, without crests and dimples, the two aspinal pores of each plate narrow, lanceolate, ten to twelve times as long as broad and half as long as the radius of each plate. Coronal pores irregular, polygonal, very numerous (two hundred to three hundred on each plate), commonly arranged more or less regularly in ten to twelve series parallel to the longitudinal diameter of the aspinal spines (ten to twenty pores in each series). Sutural pores irregular, polygonal, very numerous. Radial spines very thin and long, cylindrical.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.24; length of the aspinal pores 0.04, breadth 0.004; coronal and sutural pores 0.002 to 0.01.

Shell very thin walled, with smooth surface, without crest and dimples. All pores of nearly equal size and form; quadrangular, mostly rectangular; one hundred to two hundred, separated by two systems of parallel bars, perpendicular one to another, occur in each plate. Sutural pores mostly triangular. Radial spines very thin and long, cylindrical, somewhat compressed. (Similar to those of Phatnaspis lacunaria, Pl. 136, fig. 9, but spherical, not ellipsoidal.)

Craniaspis parmipora, Haeckel, 1866, Manuscript.

Dorataspis parmipora, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, Atlas.

Shell thin walled, with smooth surface, without crests and dimples. There are no sutural pores, since all twenty plates are connected by perfect sinuate sutures (therefore this excellent species may perhaps better represent a peculiar genus, called by me in 1866 Craniaspis). All pores are parmal pores; each plate with two elliptical aspinal pores, which are twice to five times broader than the numerous, roundish irregularly scattered coronal pores (thirty to fifty occurring on each plate). The radial spines are quite internal, that is, not prolonged on the outside of the shell; in this respect they resemble those of Sphærocapsa.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, aspinal pores 0.01, coronal pores 0.002 to 0.005.

Shell thick walled, with smooth surface, without crests and dimples. All pores of the shell nearly of the same size and of similar form, about as broad as the bars between them, and about two hundred in number, viz., fifty to sixty (regularly fifty-two or fifty-four) sutural pores and one hundred and forty to one hundred and fifty parmal pores (forty aspinal kidney-shaped pores, and one hundred to one hundred and ten coronal circular pores: six in the angles of each equatorial plate, and five in the angles of each tropical and polar plate; if the disposition be quite regular, one hundred and four or one hundred and eight). Radial spines short, rudimentary, conical.

Subgenus 2. Coscinaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the shell dimply, with a network of prominent crests.

Shell thick-walled, with numerous (one hundred and sixty to two hundred?) funnel-shaped dimples, which are separated by prominent crests; on the bottom of each dimple there is a simple or double circular pore. If this species be quite regularly developed, it closely resembles the preceding, differing from it mainly in the prominent combs of the surface. It resembles also Ceriaspis favosa, Pl. 138, fig. 6; but whilst in this latter the majority of the dimples are blind, here they are all perforated. The twenty aspinal dimples (in the centre of each plate) present at the bottom a couple of pores, all other dimples a single pore. Among the latter there are fifty to sixty sutural pores and one hundred to one hundred and ten coronal pores, viz., six in each equatorial plate, and five in each of the other plates; but the number is not quite constant. Radial spines strong, in the inner part cylindrical, in the outer conical.

Genus 357. Acontaspis,^[397] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by eighty to two hundred or more parmal pores (in each plate two aspinal and two to ten or more coronal pores). Surface covered with by-spines.

The genus Acontaspis has the same characteristic structure of the shell as Ceriaspis, differing from it only in the presence of numerous by-spines. Each plate is perforated by four to sixteen or more (commonly ten to twelve) parmal pores, the two central of which are primary "aspinal pores," all the others being secondary "coronal pores."

Subgenus 1. Acontasparium, Haeckel.

Shell thin walled, even, without crests and dimples between them, perforated by about three hundred pores of different sizes: forty aspinal pores elliptical, about as large as the irregular (fifty to sixty) sutural pores, and two to four times as broad as the small circular coronal pores (eight to twelve being on each plate, altogether about two hundred). Between the pores numerous short conical by-spines. Radial main spines lanceolate, about as long as the radius. (Similar to Coscinaspis peripora, Pl. 138, fig. 1, but with broad lanceolate spines and numerous short by-spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, aspinal and sutural pores 0.012 to 0.015, coronal pores 0.004 to 0.008.

Subgenus 2. Acontaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Surface of the shell dimply, with a network of prominent crests.

Shell thick walled, with numerous (one hundred and seventy to one hundred and ninety) dimples, which are separated by an elevated network of prominent crests. In the centre of each plate a larger dimple with a couple of aspinal pores, surrounded by a corona of ten or twelve smaller dimples, each of which contains a single pore (a coronal and sutural alternately). All pores circular or roundish, nearly of the same size. If the shell be quite regularly developed, there are fifty to sixty sutural pores and one hundred to one hundred and ten coronal pores (six in each equatorial plate, five in each of the other plates). The knobs of the meeting crests are conical, and bear each a simple short by-spine. Radial main spines compressed, at the distal end spear-shaped, with a rhomboidal plate below the apex, about as long as the radius.

Shell thick walled, dimply, with a network of crests, of the same composition as in the foregoing species, with one hundred and seventy to one hundred and ninety dimples (twenty aspinal, one hundred to one hundred and ten coronal and fifty to sixty sutural dimples). All dimples and pores nearly of the same size. Each node of the crested network bears a stout by-spine, which is forked {830}on the base, with two divergent straight branches (similar to those of Hystrichaspis furcata, Pl. 138, fig. 9). Radial main spines two-edged, sword-like, nearly as long as the diameter of the shell.

Shell very dark and thick walled, non-transparent, with very numerous (three hundred to four hundred or more?) deep funnel-shaped dimples, each of which is perforated by a small circular pore (forty aspinal, two hundred to three hundred coronal, and fifty to one hundred sutural pores?). The high crests between the dimples bear very numerous simple by-spines, nearly half as long as the radius, so that the shell appears covered with hairs. Radial main spines very long and thin, cylindrical, longer than the diameter of the shell.

Subfamily 2. Tessaraspida, Haeckel.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty radial spines, each of which bears four crossed apophyses (opposite in pairs). The spherical shell is composed either of the meeting branches of these apophyses (Stauraspida), or of twenty perforated plates, produced by concrescence of their branches (Lychnaspida).

A. Tribe II. Stauraspida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 467.

Definition.—Dorataspida with spherical shell, which is composed either of the meeting branches of the four crossed apophyses only, or exhibits four to twelve perforated plates which are produced by the crossed apophyses of four to twelve radial spines (but never of all twenty spines). Each plate bears four crossed pores.

Genus 358. Stauraspis,^[398] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 467.

Definition.—Dorataspida without perforated plates; shell composed only of the meeting branches of the four crossed apophyses, which arise (opposite in pairs) from each radial spine. Condyles of the branch-ends without by-spines.

The genus Stauraspis is the most simple and primitive form among all Tessaraspida, or that subfamily of Dorataspida, in which the shell is composed of twenty {831}radial spines, each of which bears four crossed apophyses. The subfamily may be divided into two different tribes, the Stauraspida and Lychnaspida. In the Stauraspida either all twenty spines, or a part of them, bear no perforated plates, and the shell is composed wholly or partially of the meeting branches of their apophyses. In the Lychnaspida, however, the four apophyses of each single spine form, by reunion of their recurved branches, a plate or shield with four crossed aspinal pores. The Lychnaspida represent therefore a more developed stage in the shell-formation than the simpler Stauraspida. Stauraspis, as the common ancestral form of both, may be derived phylogenetically from Xiphacantha or Stauracantha, which differ only by the apophyses or branches of the apophyses not meeting. These branches (originally eight on each spine) are either simple or again branched.

Subgenus 1. Staurasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Apophyses of the spines simple, not branched; therefore each spine with four sutural condyles.

Radial spines thin, quadrangular, prismatic; outer and inner half nearly of equal length. Central bases pyramidal, with wing-like edges. Four apophyses of each spine simple, not branched, with thin condyles. Large meshes of the shell ten to twenty times as broad as the bars. This and the following species greatly resemble the simplest forms of Phractaspis (Pl. 137, figs. 1, 2); they differ from these, however, by the equal size and distance of the four branches of each spine, which thus form a rectangular cross.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1; breadth of the spines and bars 0.002.

Radial spines stout, cylindrical in the inner half, conical in the shorter outer half. Four apophyses of each spine simple, not branched, broad, with thick condyles. Meshes of the shell six to eight times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12; breadth of the spines and bars 0.008 to 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Stauraspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Apophyses of the spines branched; therefore each spine with eight to twenty or more sutural condyles.

Radial spines thin, quadrangular, prismatic; outer and inner halves nearly of equal length. The four apophyses of each spine simply forked (or partly with bifid fork-branches); each spine with eight to twelve sutural condyles. Meshes of the shell ten to twenty times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15; breadth of the spines and bars 0.003.

Radial spines thin, in the inner longer half cylindrical, in the outer half conical with thickened base. Four apophyses of each spine doubly forked or dichotomously (more or less irregularly) branched; each spine with sixteen to twenty-four sutural condyles. Meshes of the shell of very different sizes and forms; the largest ten to fifteen, the smallest two to three times as broad as the bars.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14; breadth of of the spines 0.002 to 0.01, of the bars 0.002.

Genus 359. Echinaspis,^[399] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 467.

Definition—Dorataspida without perforated plates; shell composed only of the meeting branches of the four crossed apophyses, which arise (opposite in pairs) from each radial spine. Condyles of the branch-ends bearing by-spines.

The genus Echinaspis exhibits the same structure of the shell as its ancestral form Stauraspis, and differs from it only in the development of by-spines on the sutural condyli.

Radial spines cylindrical, thin, outer half longer than the inner. Four apophyses of each spine simply forked (or partly with bifid fork-branches); therefore each spine usually possesses eight (sometimes ten to twelve) sutural condyles. Meshes of the shell ten to twelve times as broad as the bars. Each condyle bears a zigzag by-spine, half as long as the radius.

Radial spines thin and long, quadrangular, prismatic; outer half two to three times as long as the inner. Four apophyses of each spine simply forked (or partly with bifid fork-branches); each spine with eight to twelve sutural condyles. Meshes of the shell fifteen to twenty-five times as broad as the bars. Each condyle bears a simple bristle-shaped by-spine, nearly as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11; breadth of the spines and bars 0.002.

Radial spines roundish, in the outer half conical, and two to three times as broad as in the inner half. Four apophyses of each spine doubly forked or dichotomously (more or less irregularly) branched; each spine with sixteen to twenty-four sutural condyles. Meshes of the shell four to eight times as broad as the bars. Each condyle bears a zigzag by-spine, one-third as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15; breadth of the spines 0.004 to 0.01, of the bars 0.002.

Genus 360. Zonaspis,^[400] n. gen.

Definition.—Dorataspida with four plates, each of which is perforated by four crossed aspinal pores; these four plates are formed by the united branches of the other spines (eight polar and eight tropical) form no lattice-plates by union. Each condyle bears a by-spine.

The genus Zonaspis differs from all other Dorataspida in the peculiar formation of the four equatorial spines, which form by union of the recurved branches of their apophyses four perforated plates (each with four crossed pores), whilst the branches of the sixteen other plates do not unite to form plates, but simply meet the branches of the neighboring spines.

Radial spines very thin and long, cylindrical. Four meshes of each equatorial plate pentagonal, ten to twelve times as broad as the bars. By-spines zig-zag, nearly as long as the radius.

Radial spines cylindrical in the inner half, with thickened pyramidal bases (fig. 3), conical in the outer half; both halves of equal length. The four meshes of each equatorial plate egg-shaped, four to six times as broad as the bars. By-spines zigzag, half as long as the radius.

Habitat.—Tropical Pacific (east coast off Philippines), Station 275, surface.

Radial spines stout, cylindrical in the shorter inner half, conical in the longer outer half. The four meshes of each equatorial plate circular, only twice as broad as the bars. By-spines zigzag, nearly as long as the radius.

Genus 361. Dodecaspis,^[401] n. gen.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twelve plates, each of which is perforated by four crossed aspinal pores; these twelve plates are formed by the united branches of the apophyses of four equatorial and eight polar spines. The branches of the apophyses of the eight tropical spines form no lattice-plates by union. Each condyle bears a by-spine.

The genus Dodecaspis differs from all other Dorataspida in the peculiar composition of its shell; twelve spines (four equatorial and eight polar spines) form by union of the branches of their apophyses twelve plates, each of which exhibits four crossed pores, whilst the eight other (tropical) spines form no perforated plates, but simply unite with the neighbouring spines by meeting branches. Some irregularity is often to be found in this genus; instead of four pores in each plate there may be two closed, the other two which are opposite being open. Several times I observed a peculiar "hemihedral" variety: only six spines of one meridian plane (the two equatorial and the four polar spines of the "hydrotomical" plane) exhibited complete shields, whilst the branches of the other fourteen plates remained open. This "hemihedral" form may perhaps represent a peculiar genus, Hemiaspis.

Radial spines thin and long, cylindrical. The four meshes of each equatorial and each polar plate of equal size, pentagonal, about eight times as broad as the bars. By-spines zigzag, nearly as long as the radius. In this species the hemihedral variety, Hemiaspis, often occurs.

Habitat.—South-east Pacific (west coast of Patagonia), Station 302, surface.

Radial spines thin, cylindrical in the longer inner half, conical in the shorter outer half. The four meshes of each equatorial and each polar plate of equal size, roundish or nearly circular, five to six times as broad as the bars. By-spines straight, denticulated, scarcely half as long as the radius.

Habitat.—South-west Pacific (east coast of New Zealand), Station 169, surface.

B. Tribe II. Lychnaspida, Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 467.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty perforated plates or fenestrated shields (each plate at least with four pores), produced by union of the branches of the four crossed apophyses, which arise, opposite in pairs, from each radial spine. The spherical shell is composed of the twenty plates united by sutures (rarely by concrescence).

Genus 362. Tessaraspis,^[402] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by eighty aspinal pores (four crossed pores in each plate). Surface smooth, without by-spines.

The genus Tessaraspis introduces the series of Lychnaspida, which comprise all those Dorataspida in which the shell is composed of twenty plates, each of which is perforated by four primary aspinal pores. In Tessaraspis and Lychnaspis each plate exhibits only these four primary pores, whilst in Icosaspis and Hylaspis they become surrounded by a circle of secondary or coronal pores. If in Stauraspis, the common ancestral form of the Tessaraspida, the four crossed apophyses of each single radial spine became recurved and united together, we should have the typical plate of Tessaraspis, in which the piercing radial spine is surrounded by four crossed pores of equal size. The number of sutural pores, between the neighbouring plates, is variable; usually each plate is surrounded by a circle of eight to twelve sutural pores. The sutures between the meeting condyles of the apophyses usually remain open; but in some species they become obliterated (subgenus Tessaraspidium).

Subgenus 1. Tessarasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Condyles of the neighbouring plates connected by permanent open sutures; therefore the whole shell is composed of twenty separated pieces of acanthin.

Parmal pores pentagonal, ten to twenty times as broad as the thin thread-like bars, on an average of about the same size as the irregular sutural meshes; the majority of the latter are either triangular or hexagonal. Radial spines very thin and long, cylindrical, their outer part two to four times as long as the inner. As the insertion of the spines is on the highest point of the plates, the shell becomes polyhedral (dodecahedral?).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15 to 0.17, of the parmal meshes 0.02 to 0.025, sutural meshes 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.002.

Parmal meshes pentagonal, three to four times as broad as the thick bars, and on an average smaller than the irregular polygonal sutural meshes. Radial spines stout, quadrangular; their outer pyramidal part shorter than the inner prismatic part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the parmal pores 0.01 to 0.012, bars 0.003.

Parmal meshes tetragonal, or nearly square, six to eight times as broad as the thin bars, and on an average larger than the irregular polygonal sutural meshes. Radial spines thin, quadrangular, prismatic, their outer part longer than their inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, of the parmal pores 0.012 to 0.016, bars 0.002.

Parmal meshes hexagonal, ten to twelve times as broad as the thin bars, and on an average larger than the polygonal sutural meshes (the two proximal sides of each hexagonal parmal mesh two to three times as long as the four distal sides). Radial spines cylindrical, thin; their outer part longer than the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, of the parmal pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.001.

Parmal meshes triangular, three to four times as broad as the thick bars, and on an average smaller than the irregular sutural meshes (in each plate all four parmal meshes of the same size, formed like an isosceles triangle, the distal base of which is somewhat curved, and convex towards {837}the periphery, whilst the two proximal sides are straight). Radial spines thick, rounded; their outer conical part shorter than the inner cylindrical part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, of the parmal pores 0.01, of the sutural pores 0.01 to 0.02.

Habitat.—Tropical Atlantic (near Ascension), Station 345, depth 2010 fathoms.

Parmal meshes circular, all eighty of equal size, quite regular, five to six times as broad as the thick bars, on an average larger than the roundish irregular sutural meshes. Radial spines quadrangular, prismatic, the outer part longer than the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.18, parmal pores 0.015 to 0.018, bars 0.003.

Parmal meshes circular, very small, all eighty of the same size, regular, scarcely as broad as the separating thick bars, and much smaller than the large irregular sutural meshes. Radial spines rounded, their outer conical part about as long as the inner cylindrical part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, of the parmal pores 0.003, of the sutural pores 0.005 to 0.015, bars 0.004.

Dorataspis diodon, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 417, Taf. xxii. figs. 1-5.

Parmal meshes roundish, for the most part nearly circular, three to four times as broad as the bars, and on an average smaller than the roundish sutural meshes. Radial spines in the inner part cylindrical; the outer part very short (only one-third or one-fourth of the radius), divided completely into two parallel conical pointed teeth by a deep incision.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, of the parmal pores 0.01 to 0.012, of the sutural pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.004.

Parmal meshes irregular, roundish, of nearly equal size, four to six times as broad as the bars, and on an average of the same size as the roundish sutural meshes. Radial spines quadrangular, prismatic in the inner part, which is somewhat longer than the conical outer part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, of the pores 0.012 to 0.018, bars 0.003.

Habitat.—North Atlantic, Canary and Cape Verde Islands, Station 353, surface.

Parmal meshes irregular, roundish, of unequal size, three to six times as broad as the bars, and on an average larger than the irregular sutural meshes. Radial spines cylindrical, the outer part longer than the inner part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13, parmal pores 0.006 to 0.012, sutural pores 0.005 to 0.01; bars 0.002.

Subgenus 2. Tessaraspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Condyles of the neighbouring plates grown together and sutures obliterated; therefore the whole shell forms a single piece of acanthin.

Tessaraspidium quadratum, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Parmal meshes square, four times as broad as the thin bars, on an average of the same size as the polygonal sutural meshes. Radial spines stout, tetrapterous, prismatic, in the outer part longer than in the inner. Sutures of the shell completely obliterated, therefore the whole shell forms one piece.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, of the parmal pores 0.012, sutural pores 0.01 to 0.015.

Parmal meshes circular, of equal size, twice as broad as the thick bars, on an average smaller than the roundish sutural meshes. Radial spines cylindrical in the inner part, which is somewhat longer than the outer conical part. Sutures of the shell completely obliterated, therefore the whole shell forms one piece.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, parmal pores 0.008, sutural pores 0.005 to 0.015.

Parmal meshes irregular, polygonal or roundish, six to eight times as broad as the narrow and high bars, much larger than the irregular sutural meshes. Radial spines leaf-shaped, compressed, two-edged, pointed at both ends; inner and outer part nearly of equal size. Shell very thick walled; meshes therefore funnel-shaped; sutures completely obliterated, therefore the whole shell forms a single piece.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.09, parmal pores 0.02, sutural pores 0.01.

Genus 363. Lychnaspis,^[403] Haeckel, 1862, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by eighty aspinal pores (four crossed pores in each plate). Surface covered with numerous by-spines.

The genus Lychnaspis, the largest and most common of all Dorataspida, exhibits the same structure of the shell as its ancestral form Tessaraspis, and differs from it only in the development of by-spines on the sutural condyles. Many species of this genus are very widely distributed, and appear in large numbers, and some of them are amongst the most graceful and elegant of the Radiolaria.

Subgenus 1. Lychnasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Condyles of the neighbouring plates connected by permanent open sutures; therefore the whole shell is composed of twenty separate pieces of acanthin.

Parmal meshes pentagonal, about ten or twelve times as broad as the thin bars, on an average of the same size as the irregular polygonal sutural meshes. By-spines (two hundred to three hundred) very delicate, half as long as the radius, barbed, and zigzag. Radial main-spines very thin and long, straight, cylindrical; their outer part longer than the inner part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2, of the parmal pores 0.02, sutural pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.002.

Parmal meshes pentagonal, twenty to thirty times as broad as the very thin thread-like bars, on an average of the same size as the irregular polygonal sutural meshes. By-spines (two hundred to two hundred and fifty) very delicate, zigzag, with very small denticles, one-third as long as the radius. Radial main-spines very thin and long, cylindrical, more or less undulated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, parmal pores 0.025, sutural pores 0.02 to 0.04, bars 0.001.

Parmal meshes pentagonal, six to eight times as broad as the thick bars, for the most part larger than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (four hundred to five hundred) nearly as {840}long as the radius, zigzag, with short denticles. Radial spines very long and stout, quadrangularly-prismatic, with four smooth edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.3, parmal pores 0.03, sutural pores 0.01 to 0.025, bars 0.004.

Parmal meshes pentagonal, three to four times as broad as the thick bars, smaller than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (two hundred to three hundred) scarcely one-third as long as the radius, zigzag, with strong denticles. Radial spines very long, stout, quadrangularly-prismatic, with four serrated edges.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.22, parmal pores 0.015, sutural pores 0.012 to 0.03, bars 0.004.

Parmal meshes tetragonal, nearly rhombic, three to four times as broad as the thick bars, smaller than the large irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (about two hundred) large, as long as the radius, with long recurved denticles, very zigzag. Radial main-spines very long, four-sided prismatic. This species differs by the form and size of the spines, and by the square form of the parmal pores from the similar Lychnaspis polyancistra, of which the late excellent engraver Wagenschieber, of Berlin, has given such a beautiful figure in my monograph (Taf. xxi. fig. 8).

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16, parmal pores 0.014, sutural pores 0.015 to 0.02, bars 0.004.

Dorataspis polyancistra, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 418, Taf. xxi. figs. 7-9.

Parmal meshes roundish, tetragonal, or nearly square, two to three times as broad as the thick bars, smaller than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (about two hundred) thin, half as long as the radius, zigzag, with blunt denticles. Radial main-spines stout, in the inner half cylindrical, in the outer half (of the same length) conical, pointed.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12, parmal pores 0.012, sutural pores 0.01 to 0.04, bars 0.004.

Parmal meshes roundish, about twice as broad as the thick bars, and for the most part smaller than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (about two hundred to two hundred and fifty) thin, zigzag, half as long as the radius. Radial main-spines very strong, cylindrical in the inner half, in the outer half much thicker and conical, pointed. I call this species in honour of my learned friend, the great patron of zoological studies, Mr. Paul Rottenburg, of Glasgow.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, parmal pores 0.012, sutural pores 0.01 to 0.03, bars 0.006.

Parmal meshes circular, twice as broad as the thick bars, on an average of the same size as the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (one hundred and fifty to two hundred) very thin, barbed and zigzag, as long as the radius. Radial main-spines cylindrical; their outer pointed part longer than the inner part.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, parmal pores 0.01, sutural pores 0.01, bars 0.005.

Parmal meshes circular, very small, of the same breadth as the thick bars, much smaller than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (one hundred to one hundred and ten) very long and thin, zigzag, twice as long as the diameter of the shell. Radial main-spines very long and strong, cylindrical (at the base quadrangular, pyramidal), four to six times as long as the diameter of the shell, and one fourth as thick as its radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.08, parmal pores 0.002, sutural pores 0.01 to 0.015, bars 0.003; length of the radial spines 0.3 to 0.5.

Parmal meshes circular, very small, only half as broad as the thick bars, much smaller than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (one hundred to one hundred and ten) half as long as the radius, zigzag. Radial main-spines thick, in the inner part cylindrical, in the outer shorter part conical, of very variable size.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05, parmal pores 0.002, sutural pores 0.006 to 0.012, bars 0.004.

Subgenus 2. Lychnaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Condyles of the neighbouring plates grown together and sutures obliterated, therefore the whole shell forms a single piece of acanthin.

Haliomma echinoides, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p.36, Taf. v. figs. 3, 4.

Haliommatidium echinoides, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 22.

Haliommatidium echinoides, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 422.

Parmal meshes pentagonal or somewhat roundish, four times as broad as the bars, and of about the same size as the polygonal meshes. By-spines (about two hundred) short, zigzag. Radial spines thin; their outer conical part shorter than the inner cylindrical part. Sutures perfectly obliterated, but recognisable by the characteristic pair of divergent by-spines. (Some recent observations on this species, made during 1880 in Portofino, have convinced me that the interpretation of it given in my Monograph, 1862, loc. cit., was quite correct.)

Haliomma ligurinum, J. Müller (= Haliommatidium ligurinum, Haeckel, L. N. 16, p. 423) seems to be closely allied to the preceding.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12 to 0.14, parmal pores 0.015, sutural pores 0.01 to 0.02, bars 0.004.

Habitat.—Mediterranean, Nice, Saint Tropez (J. Müller); Portofino near Genoa (Haeckel).

Lychnaspidium haliommidium, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript.

Parmal meshes circular, twice as broad as the bars, smaller than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (about two hundred) barbed and zigzag, as long as the radius. Radial main-spines four-sided; their outer pyramidal part shorter than the inner prismatic part. Sutures perfectly obliterated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1, parmal pores 0.01, sutural meshes 0.015 to 0.02.

Parmal meshes circular, very small, of the same breadth as the bars, and much smaller than the irregular sutural meshes. By-spines (about one hundred) very long and thin, zigzag, about as long as the diameter of the shell. Radial main-spines cylindrical, thick, twice to three times as long as the diameter of the shell. Sutures perfectly obliterated, with thickened condyles. Named in honour of Captain Henrik Rabbe (of Bremen), to whom I am indebted for many new Indian and Atlantic Radiolaria.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.086, parmal pores 0.002, sutural pores 0.012, bars 0.002.

Parmal pores very small, circular, half as broad as the bars, and much smaller than the irregular sutural pores. By-spines zigzag, as long as the diameter of the shell. Radial main-spines very thin and long, needle-shaped, cylindrical, five to six times as long as the diameter of the shell. Sutures perfectly obliterated. (This stunted species is one of the smallest of the Dorataspida.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.05, parmal pores 0.0015, sutural pores 0.01, bars 0.002.

Genus 364. Icosaspis,^[404] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Dorataspida with twenty plates, which are perforated by one hundred and sixty to three hundred or more parmal pores (in each plate four crossed aspinal pores, and around them four to twelve or more coronal pores). Surface without by-spines.

The genus Icosaspis and the closely allied Hylaspis differ from all other Tessaraspida in the increased number of the parmal pores. Whilst this number in all other genera is eighty (only four crossed pores in each plate), here it amounts to one hundred and sixty to three hundred or more (sometimes more than a thousand); in each shield four primary, crossed "aspinal pores" being surrounded by a circle of four to twelve or more "coronal pores." The number of sutural pores in these two genera is also increased.

Subgenus 1. Icosasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Condyles of the neighboring plates connected by permanent open sutures; therefore the whole shell composed of twenty separated pieces of acanthin.

Parmal meshes all of nearly equal size and form, square, four times as broad as the bars, little larger than the triangular or polygonal sutural meshes. In each plate fifty to seventy (regularly sixty-four) quadrangular pores, viz., four primary square aspinal meshes, forming together a regular square surrounded by two to three coronas of rectangular (not quite regular) coronal meshes (six to eight in each transverse row). Radial spines tetrapterous, prismatic, with four thin and broad wings, from which arise the crossed bars between the four primary pores. Outer part of the spines longer than the inner. Commonly the condyles of the plates are only contiguous; sometimes they grow together, and this form approaches Icosaspis tetragonopa.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25 to 0.3, of the pores 0.02, bars 0.005.

Tessaraspis elegans, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript et Atlas.

Parmal meshes of very different size and form; in the centre of each plate a cross of four primary, pear-shaped "aspinal pores" (the largest of all); between them four secondary, little smaller, crossed, egg-shaped "angular pores"; around this rosette of eight larger meshes an inner complete circle of sixteen to twenty polygonal coronal pores, and an outer incomplete circle of thirty to forty very small marginal pores. The latter are smaller than the irregular sutural meshes, which are constricted in the middle, about forty to sixty around each plate. Radial spines thin, cylindrical, or a little compressed; their outer part longer than the inner. In this elegant and very common species the condyles usually remain separated by sutures; but sometimes the latter become obliterated, and the whole shell then forms a single piece, Icosaspidium elegans.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2 to 0.3, commonly 0.25; larger parmal pores 0.02, smaller 0.001 to 0.003; sutural pores 0.005 to 0.015; bars 0.003.

Habitat.—Tropical and Subtropical Atlantic, Canary Islands to Ascension Island, Stations 340 to 354, surface.

Parmal meshes very different; in the centre of each plate a cross of four primary, nearly oblong, rectangular "aspinal pores"; between these four secondary, triangular, egg-shaped "angular pores" (the largest of all), and around this rosette a single circle of twelve to twenty-four small "coronal pores." The latter are of about the same size as the irregular sutural meshes, of which there are twenty to thirty around each plate. Radial spines thin, cylindrical, or a little compressed; their outer part longer than the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2 to 0.3, commonly 0.25; larger parmal pores 0.025, smaller 0.005 to 0.01; bars 0.005.

Habitat.—Tropical and Subtropical Pacific, Sandwich to Marquesas Islands, Stations 256 to 274, surface.

Parmal meshes very different; in the centre of each plate a cross of four primary octagonal aspinal pores (the largest of all); between them four secondary, rhombic angular pores, and around this rosette a circle of twelve to sixteen smaller, polyhedral coronal pores, which are however larger than the irregular sutural pores (surrounding each plate to the number of twenty to thirty). Radial spines thin, quadrangular, prismatic; the outer part longer than the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25; larger parmal pores 0.03, smaller 0.01; sutural pores 0.004 to 0.008; bars 0.006.

Parmal meshes very different; in the centre of each plate four very large, pentagonal aspinal pores, and around these two to three circles of smaller polygonal coronal pores, which are very numerous, and not larger than the small sutural pores. Radial spines quadrangular, prismatic, stout, very long; the outer part two to three times as long as the inner.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.4, of the larger aspinal meshes 0.03, of the outer meshes 0.002 to 0.02, bars 0.005.

Parmal meshes very numerous, more than one hundred in each plate; in the centre four larger pear-shaped pores, and around these four to five circles of smaller pores, gradually smaller towards the margin of the plate; the sutural meshes also very small and numerous (more than fifty around each plate), so that the number of all the pores together amounts to two thousand or even more. Radial spines thin, cylindrical, very long.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.32; larger aspinal pores 0.02, smaller 0.002 to 0.01; bars 0.003.

Subgenus 2. Icosaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Condyles of the neighbouring plates grown together, and sutures obliterated; therefore the whole shell forms a single piece of acanthin.

Haliommatidium tetragonopum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p.421, Taf. xxii. fig. 13.

Parmal meshes all of nearly equal size and form, square, three times as broad as the bars, little larger than the sutural meshes. In each plate commonly sixteen equal square meshes, viz., four primary aspinal and twelve secondary, surrounding the former as a square corona. Radial spines tetrapterous, stout; the outer pyramidal half somewhat longer than the inner. This species differs from the similar Icosaspis tabulata (Pl. 136, fig. 2) in the concrescence of the sutures, the smaller number of pores, and the form of the stouter spines. The figure in my Monograph, drawn from a broken fragment, is not quite correct.

Parmal meshes of different size and form; in the centre of each plate a cross of four pentagonal, primary aspinal pores, surrounded by a complete corona of twelve to sixteen polygonal coronal {846}pores and an incomplete corona of thirty to forty very small marginal pores; the latter are not to be distinguished from the pores of the obliterated sutures. Radial spines quadrangular, the outer pyramidal part shorter than the inner prismatic part. Condyles grown together. As the plates are quite even, the shell becomes icosahedral.

Tessaraspis icosastaura, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript et Atlas.

Parmal plates of different size and form; in the centre of each plate a cross of four larger primary, pyriform aspinal pores; between these four smaller roundish angular pores, and around this rosette a circle of ten to twenty (commonly sixteen) coronal pores, little larger than the very small sutural pores. Radial spines very thin and long, cylindrical or bristle-shaped. Condyles grown together; no suture visible.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14; larger pores of the cross 0.01, smaller pores 0.002 to 0.008; bars 0.002 to 0.004.

Genus 365. Hylaspis,^[405] n. gen.

The genus Hylaspis exhibits the same structure of the shell as the nearly allied ancestral genus Icosaspis, and differs from it only in the development of by-spines. Some species of these two genera exhibit the highest degree of complication in the structure of the shell seen among the Dorataspida.

Parmal meshes four hundred to five hundred; in the centre of each plate a cross of four very large pentagonal or roundish aspinal pores, and around this a circle of sixteen to twenty much smaller irregular, polygonal, coronal pores; the latter of about the same size as the sutural pores. On each condyle one thin zigzag-shaped by-spine, nearly as long as the radius. Twenty radial spines very long, quadrangular, prismatic; on the inside thinner and smooth, on the outside thickened, and armed with four rows of recurved teeth, serrated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.18, aspinal spines 0.02, other pores 0.002 to 0.01, bars 0.003.

Parmal meshes five hundred to six hundred; in the centre of each plate a cross of four long rectangular aspinal pores, between these four larger egg-shaped angular pores; around this rosette a circle of sixteen to twenty much smaller, irregular, roundish, coronal pores; the latter about of the same size as the sutural pores. On each condyle one bearded by-spine about one-third or one-fourth as long as the radius. Twenty radial spines, very long, smooth, quadrangular, prismatic.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25, aspinal pores 0.02, other pores 0.005 to 0.01, bars 0.004.

Parmal meshes twelve hundred to sixteen hundred; in the centre of each plate a cross of four large, somewhat oblong, octahedral aspinal pores, between these four rhombic smaller angular pores; around this rosette an inner circle of twelve to sixteen larger and an outer circle of fifty to sixty very small coronal pores; the latter smaller than the sutural pores. On each condyle one bristle-shaped zigzag by-spine, with recurved thin hooks, half as long as the radius. Twenty radial spines, very long, cylindrical, smooth.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.25 to 0.3, aspinal pores 0.022, other pores 0.002 to 0.015, bars 0.002.

Family XLI. Phractopeltida, Haeckel (Pl. 133, figs. 1-6).

Definition.—Acantharia with double spherical lattice-shell, composed of the branched apophyses of twenty radial spines meeting in its centre, and disposed according to the Müllerian law of Icosacantha. Central capsule spherical, enclosing the inner and surrounded by the outer concentric shell.

The family Phractopeltida differs from all other Acantharia in the development of a double spherical shell, composed of two concentric lattice-spheres, which are united by twenty radial spines meeting in the common centre. We could therefore oppose the Phractopeltida as Diplophracta to all other Acanthophracta as Haplophracta (with simple shell). The former exhibit a relation to the latter, similar to that exhibited by the Dyosphærida to the simple Monosphærida among the Sphæroidea.

In my Monograph (1862, p. 423) I described only one genus appertaining to this family, Aspidomma. I founded it upon the singular Phractopelta, described by {848}J. Müller as Haliomma hystrix. A second species of Aspidomma, the Acanthometra mucronata of J. Müller, was probably an Astrolonche. At that time I placed Aspidomma among the Haliommatida, led by the erroneous opinion that it might represent a transition-form between Dorataspis and Haliomma. But I afterwards gave up this view, as I was convinced that there is no true phylogenetic connection between the acanthinic Dorataspida (Actipylea) and the siliceous Haliommatida (Peripylea). Therefore in my Prodromus (1881, p. 468) I placed Aspidomma among the Dorataspida and changed its name to Phractopelta, to avoid further confusion with the unrelated Ommatida (Sphæroidea). It formed there, with three nearly related genera, the "subfamily Phractopeltida," which we now advance to the higher rank of a separate family. (By a typographical mistake the words are printed in the Prodromus Phractopelma and Phractopelmida, &c., instead of Phractopelta and Phractopeltida, &c.). The detection of other new species appertaining to this family, and a closer anatomical investigation of them, has now led to the distinction of five different genera, characterised by other differences than were employed in 1881 in the provisional system of the "Prodromus."

The two concentric spherical lattice-shells of the Phractopeltida, connected by radial beams, correspond perfectly to those of the double-shelled Dyosphærida (Haliomma, Diplosphæra, &c.), and in both cases we may call the smaller inner the "medullary shell," and the larger outer the "cortical shell." There is no doubt that the double-shelled Phractopeltida must be derived phylogenetically from the simple-shelled Dorataspida (just as we derive the double Dyosphærida from the simple Monosphærida). But it is not yet possible to decide positively which of the two shells is the first formed. Probably the small inner or medullary shell of the Phractopeltida is the first formed, and corresponds to the simple spherical lattice-shell of the Dorataspida; and the larger outer or cortical shell of the former is a later new formation, absent in the latter family. This opinion seems to be confirmed by the genus Orophaspis, the only form among the Dorataspida, in which the radial spines outside the shell bear free latticed apophyses. If these twenty apophyses grow further and meet one another, the second or outer shell of Phractopelta may be formed. But some objections may be raised to this opinion from the peculiar structure and the very small size of the inner shell; and there is some possibility that this latter is a secondary later product inside of the primary cortical shell. The probably phylogenetic series which reveals the origin of the Phractopeltida is the following:—Acanthometron, Zygacantha, Lithophyllium, Phractacantha, Doracantha, Dorataspis, Orophaspis, Phractopelta.

The twenty radial spines exhibit in all Phractopeltida the same characteristic position and relation as in all other Icosacantha, and are constantly arranged according to the Müllerian law in four meridian planes, their distal ends falling into five parallel zones. Their distinction in the majority of the Phractopeltida is not difficult, {849}since the spines of the different zones bear apophyses of different shapes. Sometimes the four equatorial spines are stouter than the sixteen other spines, and often the eight tropical spines are somewhat different in form from the eight polar and from the four equatorial spines. The length of all twenty spines is commonly equal. Their form is usually more or less compressed, two-edged (as in Zygacantha), more rarely cylindrical (as in Acanthometron), or somewhat quadrangular (but not truly prismatic); therefore the transverse section of the spines is commonly elliptical or lanceolate, rarely circular or rhombic, never square; this seems to indicate their origin from Zygacantha. As in all Acantharia, the spines consist of acanthin, not of silex. Their central ends are either perfectly grown together, and form a single star of acanthin, or the triangular faces of their small pyramidal bases are supported one upon another, without true concrescence.

The apophyses of the radial spines, by which the two concentric spherical shells are formed, seem to be constantly four on each spine, two being opposite in each shell. The proximal pair of opposite apophyses, forming the inner or medullary shell, is constantly much smaller than the distal pair composing the outer or cortical shell (Pl. 133, fig. 5). The proximal pair corresponds probably to the two primary apophyses of the Diporaspida (Phractaspis, Dorataspis, &c.), whilst the distal pair corresponds to the free apophyses of Orophaspis (Pl. 133, fig. 6). Therefore the Phractopeltida may be derived phylogenetically from the Diporaspida (not from the Tessaraspida). In the common ancestral genus of this family, Phractopelta, the free part of the radial spines (outside the outer shell) is quite simple, without free apophyses; in all other genera of the family that free part of the spines (either in all twenty spines or only in some of them) bears a third pair of lateral apophyses; these may be either simple or branched or even latticed; but the outer apophyses (of the third rank) remain constantly free, and a third lattice-shell is never formed by union of their edges (Pl. 133, figs. 2-4).

The inner lattice-shell of the Phractopeltida, or their "medullary shell," is constantly very small (commonly 0.03 to 0.05 mm. in diameter, rarely more). Its structure is difficult to make out; in the unbroken shell it is concealed by the dense network of the outer shell; in the broken shell it is commonly destroyed. Usually the pores of the inner shell are very small, circular or subcircular, scarcely as broad as the small separating bars. In the majority of Phractopeltida their number seems to be about forty, being probably the forty primary aspinal pores of the Diporaspida; in some species this number seems to be exceeded, so that perhaps some sutural pores may exist between the aspinal pores; but commonly the twenty plates composing the inner shell (each with two aspinal pores) seems to grow together perfectly by their meeting edges, so that there are no sutural pores between them. Evident sutures were not recognisable in the inner shell of any Phractopeltida.

The outer lattice-shell of the Phractopeltida, or their "cortical shell," is at least twice as broad, commonly about three times as broad, as the enclosed inner shell; it is much more varied in composition than the latter. Like the greater part of the Dorataspida we may distinguish here in the lattice-work two kinds of pores—parmal pores and sutural pores. The parmal pores are produced by the union of the meeting branches of the apophyses of each single spine, and are therefore visible on each isolated spine; whilst the sutural pores are formed by the meeting branches of the apophyses of neighbouring spines. The distinction of the parmal and the sutural pores, easy in most Dorataspida, is difficult in most Phractopeltida, because the sutures between the meeting branches are usually very early obliterated. However, the place of the obliterated suture is often indicated by the thickened condyles of the apophyses on both sides of the suture. Commonly also the form of the sutural pores is much more irregular than that of the parmal pores; the former are more or less constricted in the middle by the intumescence of the sutural condyles, whilst the latter are more roundish, elliptical, kidney-shaped, or square. The number of the pores in the outer shell in the typical normal form of Phractopeltida seems to be the same as in the most species of Dorataspis, Diporaspis, &c., between ninety and one hundred, viz., forty parmal pores and from fifty to sixty sutural pores. However, in many species this number is increased. Since in all Phractopeltida, each of the twenty plates is composed only of the meeting branches of two opposite apophyses, we find originally in each plate only two primary parmal pores or "aspinal pores." But in some species there occur four, six, or more pores in each plate; in this case two of them only are aspinal pores, all the others being "coronal pores." Moreover, in those species which exhibit on the base of each spine in the outer shell four crossed pores (Pl. 133, fig. 2), there are not four equivalent aspinal pores (as in the Tessaraspida), but the two opposite are primary or aspinal pores and the other two (different from them in size and form) coronal pores. However, the number of coronal pores in the Phractopeltida is never so large as in many Dorataspida, and the same holds good also for the increasing number of the irregular sutural pores. In none of the species observed does the total number of the pores in the outer shell reach two hundred.

The original mode of development of the apophyses composing the outer shell seems to be imitated by the free apophyses of the third order, which are developed from the radial spines outside the outer shell in all Phractopeltida, with the single exception of the simple ancestral genus Phractopelta. These apophyses of the third rank are also originally constantly two, opposite to one another (after the type of Lithophyllium, Dorataspis, &c.). Commonly they do not remain simple, but become branched, and by communication of the neighbouring branches small lattice-plates arise. Originally each of these free lattice-plates has only two parmal pores, but the number of the parmal pores increases afterwards, so that we may distinguish two (primary) {851}aspinal pores, and two, four, or more (secondary) coronal pores. In the majority of species the two opposite apophyses are first crossed at right angles by a transverse beam, and the two parallel transverse beams are again crossed by perpendicular tertiary branches (again parallel to the apophyses). In this case the network of the free lattice-plates becomes more or less rectangular. But in other species the ramification of the apophyses assumes more the form of bifurcation or of irregular branching. As already said, the neighbouring free lattice-plates of this third order never meet, and therefore a complete third shell is never formed.

The different genera of Phractopeltida exhibit very remarkable differences in the development of free apophyses (or lattice-plates of the third order). Whilst in the numerous species of the ancestral genus Phractopelta all twenty spines remain simple, without such apophyses, only in a single observed species (representing the genus Pantopelta) were all twenty spines protected by them. In the three other genera only one part of the spines bears free apophyses, but not the other part. The most frequent form is Dorypelta (Pl. 133, fig. 2); here eight spines are simple (four equatorial and four polar spines of the hydrotomical plane), whilst twelve spines bear apophyses (eight tropical and four polar spines of the geotomical plane). In Octopelta the eight tropical spines only bear apophyses, whilst the twelve other (four equatorial and eight polar) are simple. In Stauropelta finally the four equatorial spines only are simple, whilst the sixteen other bear free apophyses (eight tropical and eight polar spines).

The Central Capsule of the Phractopeltida is constantly spherical, and enclosed between the two concentric spherical shells; it is therefore larger than the inner and smaller than the outer shell. Its wall is pierced by the twenty radial beams connecting the two shells. The shape of the central capsule and of the enveloping calymma is the same as in the other Acanthophracta and specially in the Dorataspida.

Synopsis of the Genera of Phractopeltida.

Genus 366. Phractopelta,^[406] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Phractopeltida with twenty simple radial spines, bearing no free apophyses outside the outer shell.

The genus Phractopelta is the most simple form among the Phractopeltida, and may be regarded as the common ancestral form of this family. All twenty spines are of nearly equal form and size, and bear no free apophyses on their free part, outside the two concentric shells. Phractopelta may be derived from Orophaspis by further development of the free apophyses, which by union of their branches form a second outer shell around the primary shell of that Dorataspid.

Subgenus 1. Phractopeltaris, Haeckel.

Definition.—Outer shell composed of twenty separated plates, the sutures of their meeting condyles not being grown together.

Outer shell composed of twenty plates, the meeting condyles of which are separated by permanent sutures. Each plate commonly with two elliptical aspinal pores, which are two to three times as broad as the irregular sutural pores. Radial spines (in the outer free part) compressed, linear, twice as long as the diameter of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty plates, the meeting condyles of which are separated by permanent sutures. Each plate commonly with two kidney-shaped aspinal pores, which are three to four times as broad as the irregular sutural pores. Radial spines conical, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty plates, the meeting condyles of which are separated by permanent sutures. Each plate commonly with two quadrangular aspinal pores, which are four to five times {853}as broad as the irregular sutural pores. Radial spines compressed, sword-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty plates, the meeting condyles of which are separated by permanent sutures. Each plate commonly with four crossed, quadrangular, aspinal pores, the two opposite of which are much larger than the two others. Sutural pores small, roundish. Radial spines compressed, linear, about twice as long as the diameter of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty plates, the meeting condyles of which are separated by permanent sutures. Each plate commonly with four crossed quadrangular (or nearly circular) aspinal pores, all of nearly the same size. Sutural pores polygonal or roundish. Radial spines cylindrical, two to three times as long as the diameter of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty plates, the meeting condyles of which are separated by permanent sutures. Each plate commonly with six aspinal pores, the two opposite of which are much larger than the four others. Sutural pores small, roundish. Radial spines compressed, two-edged, larger than the diameter of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty plates, the meeting condyles of which are separated by permanent sutures. Each plate commonly with eight aspinal pores, the four crossed being larger than the four others alternating with them. Sutural pores irregular. Radial spines conical, shorter than the diameter of the shell.

Subgenus 2. Phractopeltidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Outer shell composed of twenty united plates, the sutures of their meeting condyles being grown together.

Outer shell composed of twenty united plates, the meeting condyles of which are grown together. On the base of each radial spine (where its outer free part arises from the surface of the outer shell), two large elliptical aspinal pores, two to four times as large as the other roundish pores. Radial spines compressed, sword-shaped, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty united plates, the meeting condyles of which are grown together. On the base of each radial spine two large kidney-shaped aspinal pores, little larger than the other irregular pores. Radial spines compressed, linear, two-edged, much longer than the diameter of the shell.

Outer shell composed of twenty united plates, the meeting condyles of which are grown together. On the base of each radial spine four crossed egg-shaped aspinal pores, two opposite of which are much larger than the two others. Sutural pores irregular. Radial spines cylindrical or little compressed, thin, longer than the diameter of the shell.

Haliomma hystrix, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 37, Taf. v. figs. 1, 2.

Aspidomma hystrix, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 424.

Outer shell composed of twenty united plates, the meeting condyles of which are grown together. On the base of each radial spine four crossed circular aspinal spines of equal size. Sutural pores roundish, of about the same size. Radial spines conical, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Genus 367. Pantopelta,^[407] n. gen.

Definition.—Phractopeltida with twenty radial spines, each of which is protected by two free external apophyses.

The genus Pantopelta differs from all other Phractopeltida in the development of free protecting apophyses on all twenty radial spines. Only a single specimen of this rare form was seen, and in this all twenty spines exhibited no marked differences in form and size, but were more or less irregularly developed.

Apophyses of all twenty radial spines with forked anastomosing branches, forming a more or less irregular cup-like fenestrated shield, pierced by a variable number of pores. Distance of the apophyses from the outer shell equal to half its radius. Pores of the outer shell irregular, roundish, four to six times as broad as those of the inner shell. Radial spines compressed, sword-shaped, longer than the radius of the shell.

Genus 368. Octopelta,^[408] n. gen.

Definition.—Phractopeltida with twelve simple spines (four equatorial and eight polar), and with eight tropical spines protected by external free apophyses.

The genus Octopelta differs from the other Phractopeltida in the possession of eight shields or pairs of free apophyses outside the outer lattice-shell; the spines bearing these apophyses are the eight tropical spines. The twelve other spines (eight polar and four equatorial) are quite simple, without apophyses.

Apophyses of the eight tropical spines simple, compressed, knife-shaped, about as long as their distance from the outer shell. On the base of each spine (in the network of the outer shell) two orthogonal aspinal pores, two to three times as long as the other polygonal pores.

Apophyses of the eight tropical spines forked, each with two parallel simple fork-branches, about as long as their distance from the outer shell. On the base of each spine (in the outer shell) two kidney-shaped aspinal pores, about twice as broad as the other irregular pores.

Apophyses of the eight tropical spines crossed by a transverse beam, which is again crossed by two perpendicular branches; by union of these branches each tropical spine forms a square shield with four crossed pores and twelve to sixteen marginal spikes. On the base of each spine (in the surface of the outer shell) four crossed aspinal pores which correspond to those of the free shields; these are somewhat larger than the other pores.

Genus 369. Dorypelta,^[409] Haeckel, Prodromus, p. 369.

Definition.—Phractopeltida with eight simple spines (four equatorial and four hydrotomical polar spines) and with twelve spines protected by external free apophyses (eight tropical and four geotomical polar spines).

The genus Dorypelta, the most common of all Phractopeltida which are protected by free apophyses, exhibits a very peculiar differentiation of its twenty radial spines. There are constantly eight simple spines and twelve spines with apophyses. The eight simple spines are the four equatorial spines and four polar spines placed in the hydrotomical median plane. The four other polar spines (placed in the geotomical meridian plane) and the eight tropical spines are protected by two opposite apophyses, which are now simple, now branched or shield-shaped. A similar differentiation occurs in no other Acanthophractida.

Subgenus 1. Dorypeltarium, Haeckel.

Apophyses of the long compressed radial spines simple, conical, about as long as their distance from the shell. At the base of each spine (in the outer shell) two elliptical aspinal pores, two to three times as large as the other pores.

Apophyses of the long cylindrical radial spines simple, triangular, about half as long as their distance from the shell. At the base of each spine (in the outer shell) four crossed aspinal pores, the two opposite of which are much larger than the other two pores.

Subgenus 2. Dorypeltidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Free apophyses of the radial spines branched, with free (not anastomosing) branches.

Apophyses of the long compressed spines simply forked, each with two simple parallel fork-branches. At the base of each spine two elliptical aspinal pores, much larger than the other roundish pores.

Apophyses of the long compressed spines crossed by a transverse beam, which bears four simple parallel fork-branches or spikes (perpendicular to the beam), two larger medial and two smaller lateral. At the base of each spine four crossed aspinal pores of nearly equal size, little different from the other pores.

Apophyses of the long cylindrical spines crossed by a transverse beam, which bears four to six irregularly branched spikes or fork-branches, the medial of which are larger than the lateral. At {858}the base of each spine four crossed aspinal pores, two opposite of which are much larger than the two other pores.

Subgenus 3. Dorypeltonium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Free apophyses of the radial spines branched, and forming perforated shields by union of their anastomosing branches.

Apophyses of the long compressed radial spines with anastomosing branches; each spine bearing two free separated shields (each with two roundish aspinal pores). At the base of each spine (in the network of the outer shell) two elliptical aspinal pores, larger than the other pores.

Apophyses of the long cylindrical spines with anastomosing branches; each spine bearing a single free shield with four crossed aspinal pores of equal size (on the margin of the shield twelve to sixteen spikes). At the base of each spine (in the outer shell) four crossed aspinal pores, about as large as the other roundish pores.

Apophyses of the long two-edged spines with anastomosing branches; each spine bearing a single free shield with six to eight parmal pores (four crossed aspinal pores alternating with four outer coronal pores), on the margin of each shield twelve to sixteen spikes. At the base of each spine (in the outer shell) four crossed aspinal pores, about as large as the other irregular pores.

Genus 370. Stauropelta,^[410] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Phractopeltida with four simple equatorial spines and sixteen spines protected by external free apophyses (eight tropical and eight polar spines).

The genus Stauropelta is distinguished from the other Phractopeltida by the possession of sixteen pairs of free apophyses (on the eight tropical and the eight polar spines); only the other four equatorial spines remain simple, without apophyses, and form a simple cross in the equatorial plane.

Apophyses of the long polar and tropical spines crossed by a transverse beam, which is again crossed by two perpendicular branches parallel to the apophyses; branches with free ends, not united by concrescence. At the base of each spine (in the outer shell) two large elliptical aspinal pores, larger than the other irregular pores. Four equatorial spines simple, without apophyses, of the same size as the other sixteen spines.

Apophyses of the long polar and tropical spines crossed by a transverse beam, which is again crossed by two perpendicular branches parallel to the apophyses; these branches are united by concrescence, and form a square shield with four crossed pores, the centre of which is pierced by the spine. At the base of each spine (in the outer shell) four crossed aspinal pores, corresponding to those of the shield, of about the same size as the other roundish pores. Four equatorial spines, simple, without apophyses, somewhat larger than the other sixteen spines.

Suborder II. PRUNOPHRACTA.

Definition.—Shell ellipsoidal, lenticular or diploconical, with radial beams of different size.

Family XLII. Belonaspida, n. fam. (Pl. 136, figs. 6-9; Pl. 139, figs. 8, 9).

Definition.—Acantharia with a simple ellipsoidal lattice-shell, composed of the branched apophyses of twenty radial spines meeting in its centre and disposed according to the Müllerian law of Icosacantha. Two opposite equatorial spines larger than the two others. Central capsule ellipsoidal, enclosed in the fenestrated shell.

The family Belonaspida, formerly united by me with the Dorataspida (in the Prodromus, 1881, p. 468), differs from it in the ellipsoidal form of the lattice-shell and {860}the enclosed central capsule. In the spherical Dorataspida, their ancestral family, all twenty radial spines are of equal size, whilst here in the Belonaspida two opposite spines are larger than the eighteen others. These two larger or principal spines are both equatorial spines, placed in the longitudinal or major axis of the ellipsoid, or the "hydrotomical axis" (compare above, p. 719). The two other equatorial spines are constantly smaller, and lie in the transverse or minor axis of the ellipsoid, or the "geotomical axis." The geometrical proportion of these two determining axes of the ellipsoidal shell is very variable (even in one and the same species), commonly 4 : 3 or 3 : 2, rarely 2 : 1, often only 5 : 4 or 6 : 5. All meridian planes, passing through the principal spines (or the longitudinal axis of the shell) are elliptical, and of equal size. All transverse planes, perpendicular to that axis, are circular; the largest of these circular parallel planes is the geotomical plane, which passes through the smaller equatorial spines and the spineless axis.

In the spherical Dorataspida the internal length of the radial spines (or the distance between the shell and the centre) is equal in all twenty spines. In the ellipsoidal Belonaspida this internal length is different, and commonly exhibits four different degrees; in the two principal spines it is of first rank, in the eight tropical spines of second rank, in the four (hydrotomical) polar spines of third rank, and in the six spines (four geotomical polar spines and two transverse equatorial spines) of fourth rank. These differences of the internal length become more important the more the hydrotomical axis is prolonged. Regarding all other qualities (in form, disposition, and mode of junction at the centre) the ellipsoidal Belonaspida do not differ from their ancestral group, the spherical Dorataspida (compare above, p. 802). In both families the pyramidal central bases of the twenty spines are commonly supported one upon another with their triangular neighbouring faces; but sometimes also here (particularly in Phatnaspis) the central bases are perfectly grown together. In this case also the sutures of the meeting branches of the apophyses are obliterated, whilst usually they remain open. Such forms, with spines and plates perfectly grown together, form a single piece of acanthin, and were formerly separated by me as a peculiar genus Haliommatidium (Monogr. d. Radiol., 1862, p. 419). But as I now find this concrescence to be an accidental and inconstant peculiarity of some species, it no longer seems to me to be of generic importance.

The apophyses of the twenty radial spines, the branches of which compose the ellipsoidal lattice-shell, exhibit in all Belonaspida the same appearance as in the Diporaspida (and especially the Ceriaspida) among the spherical Dorataspida. Everywhere each radial spine gives off only two opposite primary apophyses, the fork-branches of which unite together and form a plate or shield with two aspinal pores (as in Dorataspis). Commonly the shell exhibits only these forty parmal pores, the other meshes between them being sutural pores. Only in one genus, Phatnaspis (Pl. 136, {861}figs. 6-9), is this number multiplied; the two opposite primary apophyses are here crossed by numerous perpendicular lateral branches, and these are again united by secondary perpendicular ramules which are parallel to the apophyses themselves; therefore each plate here forms a rhombic shield pierced by very numerous (often more than one hundred) small quadrangular or circular pores. Only two of these numerous parmal pores are the primary aspinal pores (sometimes, as in Pl. 136, fig. 8, distinguished by their larger size); all others are secondary or coronal pores. Therefore Phatnaspis repeats the characteristic formation of Coscinaspis, from which it differs in its ellipsoidal shell.

Moreover, the four other genera of the ellipsoidal Belonaspida correspond perfectly to certain genera of the spherical Dorataspida, and may be derived from these by hypertrophy or stronger development of two opposite equatorial spines. In Thoracaspis and Belonaspis (Pl. 139, figs. 8, 9) the surface of the shell-plates is without crests and dimples (in the former without, in the latter with accessory by-spines); they thus correspond to Dorataspis and Diporaspis among the Dorataspida. In two other genera the surface of the shell-plates bears a network of elevated crests, separating funnel-shaped dimples, in Dictyaspis without, in Coleaspis with by-spines; these correspond to Ceriaspis and Hystrichaspis among the Dorataspida. The small by-spines, covering the surface, exhibit the same forms as in the Dorataspida; but they are usually smaller, and less developed in the Belonaspida.

The twenty radial spines are commonly more or less compressed or two-edged, sometimes very flat, broad, and triangular (Pl. 139, figs. 8, 9). In some species (mainly of Phatnaspis) they are very long, thin, and needle-shaped (Monogr. d. Radiol., 1862, Taf. xxii. figs. 10-12). Rarely they are cylindrical, four-edged, or prismatic. The Belonaspida testify by this and other peculiarities to their near relation to the Diporaspida and Phractacanthida and their older origin from Zygacantha.

The Central Capsule is in the Belonaspida ellipsoidal, and more or less prolonged in the hydrotomical or longitudinal axis of the shell. It is constantly smaller than the enveloping ellipsoidal shell, and separated from it by the calymma. Its structure and the shape of its nucleus are the same as in the nearly allied Dorataspida.

Synopsis of the Genera of Belonaspida.

Genus 371. Thoracaspis,^[411] Haeckel, 1862, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Belonaspida with forty parmal pores (two on each plate), without dimples and crests, also without by-spines, therefore with smooth surface.

The genus Thoracaspis is the simplest form among the Belonaspida, and repeats in this family the nearly allied genus Dorataspis among the Dorataspida. It differs from this genus only in the characteristic prolongation of one equatorial axis, which effects an ellipsoidal transformation of the spherical central capsule and the enclosing lattice-shell.

Parmal pores large, elliptical, five or six times as large as the small circular sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by five or six sutural pores (a single one on each side). Spines compressed triangular, sword-like, two-edged; inner and outer half of nearly equal length.

Dimensions.—Length of the ellipsoidal shell (or major axis) 0.15, breadth (or minor axis) 0.12; length of the spines 0.07, basal breadth 0.016.

Parmal pores large, kidney-shaped, three to four times as large as the roundish small sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by five or six sutural pores (a single one on each side). Spines in the inner longer part cylindrical, in the outer shorter part conical, not compressed.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2, breadth 0.15; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.018.

Parmal pores circular, of the same size as the circular sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by five or six sutural pores (a single one on each side). Spines compressed, thin, linear, two-edged; outer part one and a half times as long as the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.17, breadth 0.13; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.003.

Parmal pores elliptical, about twice as large as the circular sutural pores, which are of rather variable size. Each plate surrounded by eight to twelve sutural pores (commonly two on each side). {863}Spines compressed, triangular, gradually tapering towards both ends; outer half a little longer, and much broader than the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.14, breadth 0.12; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.025.

Genus 372. Belonaspis,^[412] Haeckel, 1862, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Belonaspida with forty parmal pores (two on each plate), without dimples and crests, but with numerous by-spines on the surface.

The genus Belonaspis differs from its ancestral genus Thoracaspis only in the possession of numerous superficial by-spines, and bears therefore to it the same relation as Diporaspis does to Dorataspis. The two latter differ from the two former in the spherical form of the central capsule and the enclosing shell, which here becomes ellipsoidal.

Parmal pores elliptical, three or four times as large as the circular sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by five or six sutural pores (a single one on each side). Spines compressed, triangular; outer part half as long as the inner, and twice as long as the numerous, simple, bristle-shaped by-spines.

Dimensions.—Length of the ellipsoidal shell (or major axis) 0.12, breadth (or minor axis) 0.1; length of the spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.02.

Parmal pores elliptical, twice as broad as the circular sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by five or six sutural pores (a single one on each side). Spines compressed, linear, very thin; outer part longer than the inner. By-spines very numerous, half as long as the radius, furcate, with divergent fork-branches.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.1, breadth 0.08; length of the spines 0.12, breadth 0.003.

Parmal pores elliptical, three or four times as large as the circular sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by ten or twelve sutural pores (two on each side). Spines triangular, two-edged, about {864}as long as the radius of the shell; gradually tapering from its surface towards both ends. By-spines very short and numerous, simple.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.13, breadth 0.11; length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.025.

Parmal pores elliptical, six or eight times as large as the small circular sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by ten to twelve sutural pores (two on each side). Spines lanceolate, flat, in the distal part needle-shaped, about as long as the diameter of the shell. By-spines very numerous, zigzag, half as long as the shell-radius.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.15 breadth 0.13; length of the spines 0.14, basal breadth 0.03; length of the by-spines 0.04.

Parmal pores kidney-shaped, three or four times as large as the small circular pores. Each plate surrounded by ten to twelve sutural pores (two on each side). Spines very thick, half as long in the outer conical part as in the inner cylindrical part. By-spines very short, conical.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2, breadth 0.16; length of the spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

Parmal pores circular, of the same size as the circular sutural pores. Each plate surrounded by fifteen to eighteen sutural pores (three on each side). Spines compressed, about as long as the radius. By-spines very numerous, zigzag, half as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.22, breadth 0.18; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.012; length of the by-spines 0.06.

Genus 373. Dictyaspis,^[413] n. gen.

Definition.—Belonaspida with forty parmal pores (two on each plate), without by-spines, but with a network of prominent crests on the dimply surface.

The genus Dictyaspis repeats among the Belonaspida the characteristic structure of Ceriaspis (among the Dorataspida), by the development of prominent crests forming a {865}network with dimples on the outer surface of the shields. Either all the dimples or only a part of them are pierced by a pore. The forty aspinal pores are united in pairs in twenty larger dimples. The shell is usually very thick-walled and non-transparent.

Dorataspis solidissima, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 416, Taf. xxii. figs. 6-9.

Surface of the shell with seventy to eighty funnel-shaped dimples, each of which is perforated at the base by one or two small meshes; twenty larger dimples in the centre of the plates (each with two elliptical aspinal pores), and fifty to sixty smaller sutural dimples between them (each with a single circular pore). All pores of nearly the same size. No blind dimples. Outer conical part of the thick radial spines of the same length as the inner cylindrical part. Radius of the shell four times as large as the thickness of its wall.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.12, breadth 0.1; length of the spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.012.

Surface of the shell with one hundred and seventy to one hundred and ninety deep funnel-shaped dimples, seventy to eighty of which are perforated, the others blind; among the former each of the fifty to sixty smaller contains a single sutural pore, each of the twenty larger a couple of aspinal pores. All pores of nearly the same size. Outer part of the compressed two-edged spines triangular, half as long as the inner part. Radius of the shell six times as large as the thickness of its wall. (Differs from Ceriaspis favosa, Pl. 138, fig. 6, mainly in the ellipsoidal form of the shell and the different size and form of the spines.)

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.16, breadth 0.13; length of the spines 0.04, basal breadth 0.025.

Surface of the shell with one hundred and seventy to one hundred and ninety deep funnel-shaped dimples, seventy to eighty of which are perforated, the others blind; among the former each of fifty to sixty each contain a single sutural pore, twenty each a couple of aspinal pores. All dimples nearly of the same size, very deep. Outer part of the compressed sword-like spines somewhat longer than the inner part. Radius of the dark shell only twice as large as the thickness of its compact wall.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.18, breadth 0.15; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.02.

Genus 374. Coleaspis,^[414] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468.

Definition.—Belonaspida with forty parmal pores (two on each plate), with numerous by-spines and with a network of prominent crests on the dimpled surface.

The genus Coleaspis differs from its ancestral genus Dictyaspis in the development of numerous by-spines, and bears therefore among the ellipsoidal Belonaspida the same relation to it as Hystrichaspis does to Coscinaspis among the spherical Dorataspida. If the four equatorial spines in Coleaspis become different in pairs, it passes over into Hexalaspis. The shell is usually very dark and thick-walled.

All twenty spines of nearly equal size and form, about as long as the radius of the shell, compressed, sword-like, two-edged; both equatorial spines of the hydrotomical axis little longer than the eighteen others. Crests between the dimples of the shell-surface dentated, forming around the basal half of each spine a cylindrical sheath with a dentated, crown-like mouth, the teeth of which are prolonged into simple by-spines. (Similar to Hexaconus coronatus, Pl. 139, fig. 5, but differing in the nearly equal size of the spines and their sheaths, and in the longer by-spines.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.2, minor 0.17; length of the spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.02.

All twenty spines of nearly equal size and form, nearly as long as the diameter of the shell, conical; both equatorial spines of the hydrotomical axis about one-third longer than the eighteen others. Crests between the dimples of the shell-surface serrated, forming around the basal half of each spine a conical truncate sheath with crested surface and serrated mouth, the teeth of which are prolonged into short by-spines. (Similar to Hexaconus vaginatus, Pl. 139, fig. 7, but differing in the nearly equal size of all the spines and in the double thickness of the shell-wall.)

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.12, minor 0.1, length of the spines 0.08, basal breadth 0.01.

All twenty spines of nearly equal size and form, little longer than their large cylindrical sheaths, which are nearly as long as the radius of the shell, and armed on the truncated mouth with strong triangular by-spines, both equatorial spines of the hydrotomical axis one and a half times as long as the eighteen others. Shell very dark and thick walled, quite opaque.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.1, minor 0.08; length of the spines 0.06, of their sheaths 0.04.

All twenty spines of nearly equal size and form, quite concealed in their long cylindrical sheaths, which are somewhat longer than the radius of the shell, and armed on the truncated mouth with acute simple teeth; each sheath deeply sulcated, apparently resulting from the concrescence of numerous parallel leaf-shaped by-spines. Small shell very dark and thick-walled, quite opaque.

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.08, minor 0.06; length of the spines and their sheaths 0.05 to 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Coleaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Both equatorial spines of the hydrotomical axis much larger and of peculiar form, different from the eighteen other spines.

Both equatorial spines of the hydrotomical axis much longer than the eighteen others, and of very different form; one and a half times as long as the diameter of the shell, prismatic, with six prominent edges, pyramidal at the distal point. The eighteen other spines triangular, compressed, two-edged, scarcely as long as the radius of the thick-walled shell. Pores of the shell irregular polygonal, separated by ciliated crests, which bear simple by-spines (one-third as long as the radius).

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.15, minor 0.12; length of the two larger spines 0.22, of the eighteen smaller 0.06 to 0.08; basal breadth of the former 0.03, of the latter 0.008.

Both equatorial spines of the hydrotomical axis much larger than the eighteen others, and of very different form; about as long as the diameter of the shell, in the basal half four-sided pyramidal, with four thick prominent edges, in the middle part constricted, in the distal half lanceolate, two-edged. Both equatorial spines of the geotomical axis of similar form, but much smaller, scarcely one-third as long. The sixteen other spines sword-like, thin, two-edged, about as long as the radius of the thick-walled shell. Pores of the shell irregular roundish, separated by high dentated crests, which bears zigzag by-spines (half as long as the radius).

Dimensions.—Major axis of the shell 0.12, minor axis 0.1; length of the two larger spines 0.11, of the eighteen others 0.04 to 0.06; basal breadth of the former 0.04, of the latter 0.01.

Genus 375. Phatnaspis,^[415] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 468

Definition.—Belonaspida with eighty to two thousand or more parmal pores (four to one hundred or more on each plate), without by-spines on the surface.

The genus Phatnaspis corresponds to the spherical Coscinaspis among the Dorataspida, and differs from the other Belonaspida in the great number of the parmal pores; whilst the four other preceding genera exhibit only two opposite aspinal pores in the centre of each plate, in this there are constantly numerous coronal pores in addition to these, and the plates always possess the characteristic form of a wainscotted or panelled work, with quadrangular meshes. The number of these parmal pores amounts in each plate to from ten to twenty, often one hundred and twenty or more; therefore the number of parmal pores in the whole shell amounts to two thousand or more. Sometimes the pores are circular, but in this case too they are surrounded by quadrangular frames. The quadrangles are sometimes quite regular squares, sometimes more or less irregular. The thin and fragile bars between the quadrangular pores form in each plate two peculiar systems of parallel crests, which cross at right angles. Commonly the parallel crests of one system (parallel to the major diameter of the compressed radial spines) are equidistant, and pierce from one edge of the plate to the opposite, whilst the parallel crests of the other system (parallel to the minor diameter of the spines) are interrupted and at different distances (Pl. 136, fig. 9); but in other species both crossed systems are quite regular. In each plate there is one primary diagonal rib (often stronger than the parallel crests) which connects the two opposite corners of the rhomboidal plate. We can distinguish in this genus three different subgenera: A. in Phatnasparium the primary diagonal rib arises from both flat sides of the compressed sword-like, radial spines; B. in Phatnasplenium from both sharp edges of them; C. in Phatnaspidium two crossed diagonal ribs arise from four edges of the spines (combination of A and B). Therefore in the first subgenus (A) two primary aspinal pores are placed opposite on the sharp edges of the spines, but in the second (B) inversely on their flat sides; in the third (C) there are apparently four primary aspinal pores, which are probably derived from B or A by division of the two pores.

Subgenus 1. Phatnasparium, Haeckel.

Definition.—In the centre of each rhomboidal plate two primary aspinal pores, opposite on both edges of the compressed spines, from both flat sides of which the primary diagonal crest arises.

Parmal pores irregular quadrangular, of unequal size and form, ten to twelve on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both flat sides of the two-edged spines; two primary aspinal pores opposite on both edges of the latter. Spines much compressed, sword-like, their outer half shorter than the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.21 to 0.23, breadth 0.18 to 0.2; basal breadth of the spines 0.01.

Parmal pores irregular quadrangular, of unequal size and form, six to eight on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both flat sides of the two-edged spines; two primary aspinal pores opposite on the two edges of the latter. Spines very broad, strongly compressed, sword-like, their outer half larger than the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.16, breadth 0.11; basal breadth of the spines 0.02.

Parmal pores regular quadrangular, of nearly equal size and form, twelve to sixteen on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both flat sides of the two-edged spines; two primary aspinal pores on the two edges of the latter. Spines linear, compressed, very long and thin, their outer half three to four times as long as the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.24, breadth 0.18; breadth of the spines 0.004.

Haliommatidium fenestratum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 421.

Parmal pores regular quadrangular, of nearly equal size and form, six to eight on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both flat sides of the two-edged spines; two primary aspinal pores on the two edges of the latter. Spines linear, little compressed, or nearly needle-shaped, very long and thin, their outer half five to ten times as long as the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.11 to 0.12, breadth 0.07 to 0.08; breadth of the spines 0.002.

Parmal pores circular, of very different size, separated by high square crests, ten to twelve on each side of the high, comb-like, primary diagonal rib, which arises from both flat sides of the {870}twoedged spines; two primary aspinal pores on the two edges of the latter. Each circular pore is surrounded by a square frame. Spines sword-like, strongly compressed, their outer part longer than the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2 to 0.22, breadth 0.16 to 0.18; basal breadth of the spines 0.01.

Parmal pores circular, regular, all of nearly equal size, twelve to sixteen on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both flat sides of the two-edged spines; two primary pores on the two edges of the latter. Spines linear, little compressed, their outer part much longer than the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.18, breadth 0.15; breadth of the spines 0.006.

Subgenus 2. Phatnasplenium, Haeckel.

Definition.—In the centre of each rhomboidal plate two primary aspinal pores, opposite on the two flat sides of the compressed spines, from the two edges of which the primary diagonal crest arises.

Parmal pores irregular quadrangular, of unequal size and form, four to six on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both edges of the compressed spines; two larger primary aspinal pores opposite on the two flat sides of the latter. Spines very thin and long, linear, their outer half three to four times as long as the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.08, breadth 0.06; breadth of the spines 0.003.

Parmal pores irregular polygonal, of very unequal size and form, sixteen to twenty on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both edges of the compressed spines; two very large, lanceolate, primary aspinal pores opposite on the two flat sides of the latter. Spines very thin, linear, on the outside of the shell rudimentary. (This remarkable species somewhat resembles Coscinaspis polypora, Pl. 136, fig. 8.)

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.32, breadth 0.24; breadth of the spines 0.002.

Parmal pores regular, square, all of nearly equal size and form, ten to twelve on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both edges of the compressed spines; two primary aspinal pores opposite on the two flat sides of the latter, not different from the other pores. Spines sword-like, their outer part about as long as the inner.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2, breadth 0.16; basal breadth of the spines 0.004.

Haliomma tabulatum, J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 37, Taf. v. figs. 5-8.

Haliomma tabulatum, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 429.

Parmal pores regular, circular, with square frames, all of nearly equal size, eight to ten on each side of the primary diagonal rib, which arises from both edges of the compressed spines; two primary aspinal pores opposite on the flat sides of the latter. Spines sword-like, short, scarcely half as long as the radius of the shell, their central ends are thickened and cause by their union the deceptive appearance of an enclosed "medullary shell."

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.12 to 0.15, breadth 0.1 to 0.12; breadth of the spines 0.006.

Habitat.—Mediterranean; Nice, Müller; Portofino, near Genoa, Haeckel, surface.

Subgenus 3. Phatnaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—In the centre of each rhomboidal plate four primary aspinal spines, forming a regular cross, the centre of which receives the cylindrical or four-sided prismatic spine.

Parmal pores irregular quadrangular, of unequal size and form, eight to ten on each side of the crossed diagonal ribs, which arise at right angles from the four edges of the prismatic spines; four primary aspinal pores not different from the others. Outer part of the strong spines scarcely longer than the inner. (Resembling Icosaspis tabulata, Pl. 136, fig. 2, which, however, is distinguished by the spherical shell and the larger pores.)

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.22, breadth 0.17; breadth of the spines 0.016.

Haliommatidium mülleri, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. A. Radiol, p. 419, pl. xiii. figs. 10-12.

Parmal pores regular, square, all of nearly equal size and form, twelve to sixteen on each side of the crossed diagonal ribs, which arise at right angles from the needle-shaped spines; the four {872}primary aspinal pores not different from the others. Spines very thin and long, cylindrical; four to six times longer in the outer than in the inner part.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.24, breadth 0.16; breadth of the spines 0.002.

Family XLIII. Hexalaspida, n. fam. (Pl. 139).

Definition.—Acantharia with a simple discoidal or lenticular lattice-shell, composed of the branched apophyses of twenty radial spines meeting in the centre and disposed according to the Müllerian law of Icosacantha. Six larger spines in the hydrotomical plane, prominent on the margin of the circular or elliptical biconvex lens. Fourteen other spines much smaller or rudimentary. Central capsule biconvex lenticular, enclosed in the fenestrated shell.

The family Hexalaspida represents a new small, but very interesting group of Acanthophracta, which differs from all others in the lentelliptical or triaxial form of the lenticular lattice-shell, the margin of which bears six larger spines placed in the hydrotomical plane (compare above, p. 719). They may therefore be characterised shortly as "Acanthophracta lentelliptica," with three different dimensive axes and six larger marginal spines. A closer comparison with the other Acantharia leaves no doubt that the Hexalaspida must be derived from the Belonaspida by stronger development of six radial spines placed in the hydrotomical plane, namely, two equatorial and four associated polar spines; whilst the six spines of the geotomical plane (perpendicular to the former) are much smaller; the eight tropical spines are intermediate in size between the former and the latter.

The geometrical fundamental form of the Hexalaspida (of the central capsule as well as of the enclosing shell) is therefore lentelliptical, with three different dimensive axes, and they exhibit among the Acantharia a relation to the spherical Dorataspida and the ellipsoidal Belonaspida similar to that which the lentelliptical Larcoidea exhibit to the spherical Sphæroidea and the ellipsoidal Prunoidea among the Sphærellaria (compare above, p. 599). The largest of the three dimensive axes (which are perpendicular to one another) is here the hydrotomical axis, the shortest, on the contrary, the geotomical axis; the intermediate in size being the spineless axis. The development of the whole body is strongest in the hydrotomical meridian plane, in which the six principal spines are placed; it is weakest in the geotomical plane, in which the six smallest spines are placed; the eight tropical spines are intermediate in size between the others. This peculiar development is illustrated by the figures of Pl. 139, where the four equatorial spines are everywhere marked by c, the eight tropical spines by b and d, the eight polar spines by a and e.

Rarely the six hydrotomical or principal spines are of equal size, and thus the margin of the shell may be quite circular or regularly hexagonal (Pl. 139, figs. 1-3); the two equatorial spines of the hydrotomical plane are usually larger than its four polar spines, and thus the margin of the shell becomes more or less elliptical (Pl. 139, figs. 4-7). Usually (almost constantly) these six larger spines are more or less compressed, triangular, often very broad and flat; their two edges lie in the hydrotomical plane. Their two flat surfaces are often furrowed, with longitudinal ribs or crests converging towards the simple apex of the spines.

The fourteen smaller spines are regularly disposed according to the Müllerian law of Icosacantha on both convex sides of the lenticular shell; they are not only smaller than the six principal spines, but often also of different form, much thinner and shorter, sometimes needle-shaped. In the genera Hexonaspis and Hexacolpus (Pl. 139, figs. 1, 2) only their inner part (inside of the shell) is developed, whilst their outer part is quite rudimentary and not prominent on the surface. Therefore these genera appear to possess only six marginal spines externally.

The Lenticular Shell itself offers in the Hexalaspida great difficulties in the way of accurate study, as its wall is constantly very thick and dark, often quite opaque and non-transparent. However, prolonged accurate researches have convinced me that its structure is essentially the same as in the Belonaspida and especially in the genera Dictyaspis and Coleaspis. As in these latter the twenty plates of the shell bear high crests or combs on the outer surface, and by these funnel-shaped dimples are separated. The network of these crests is more or less regular (Pl. 139, figs. 1-7). Around the base of each radial spine the shell is usually elevated in the form of a conical or cylindrical sheath; the crests are prolonged into the sheaths as longitudinal ribs, parallel to the spine or convergent towards its apex. Whilst in Hexalaspis and Hexonaspis these basal sheaths are not at all or but little prominent (Pl. 139, fig. 2; Pl. 140, fig. 16), in Hexaconus and Hexacolpus they envelop the basal half (or even more) of the spines, and very often the circular or elliptical free distal edge of the sheath is elegantly denticulated or serrated (Pl. 139, figs. 1, 3-7; pl. 140, figs. 9-16).

The Pores of the shell exhibit in the Hexalaspida the same shape as in the majority of the Belonaspida. Each spine bears only two broad opposite apophyses, the fork-branches of which unite to form a polygonal shield with two pores. The number of parmal pores is constantly (?) forty, as each plate possesses only two primary aspinal pores; there are no secondary or coronal pores. The numerous (between fifty and one hundred, rarely more) smaller pores between the forty parmal pores are probably always sutural pores; however, their number and position is very difficult to determine, on account of the high protecting crests; the majority of the funnel-shaped dimples between the latter seem to be blind, not perforated. Sometimes all the dimples, except the twenty spinal ones, seem to be blind and the sutural pores appear {874}to have disappeared completely, so that there remain only twenty aspinal pores (Pl. 139, fig. 4).

The internal cavity of the shell in all Hexalaspida is very small, on account of the thickness of the massive wall; the latter is often greater than the diameter of the cavity. Setting aside this disproportion, the space of the cavity is further much reduced by the internal parts of the thick radial spines, which are united in the centre by their pyramidal bases (Pl. 140, fig. 15). Usually the twenty bases seem to remain free (supported one upon another by means of their triangular faces); but sometimes they seem to grow together perfectly and to form a single central star of acanthin. In some species, too, the sutures of the meeting branches of the apophyses of neighbouring spines seem to grow together, so that the whole shell exhibits a single piece of acanthin.

The Central Capsule of the Hexalaspida is therefore very small and seems to fill up the greatest part of the shell-cavity. Its form is constantly more or less lenticular, sometimes lentelliptical. On account of the opacity of the shell I could not make out its shape more closely.

Synopsis of the Genera of Hexalaspida.

Genus 376. Hexalaspis,^[416] n. gen.

Definition.—Hexalaspida with twenty prominent radial spines, which are not surrounded by prominent sheaths; the six hydrotomical spines much larger than the fourteen others.

The genus Hexalaspis is the simplest form among the Hexalaspida, and may be derived directly from Dictyaspis among the Belonaspida, by stronger development of the six hydrotomical spines. As in the following genus Hexaconus all twenty spines are prominent externally.

Subgenus 1. Hexalasparium, Haeckel.

All six hydrotomical spines of nearly equal size (or sometimes the two equatorial a little larger than the four polar spines), isosceles triangular, compressed, smooth; about as long as the radius of the shell, and half as broad at the base. The fourteen other spines very small, also triangular and compressed, but little prominent on the two convex sides of the lenticular shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11; length of the six hydrotomical spines 0.05, basal breadth 0.03.

All six hydrotomical spines of nearly equal size, lanceolate compressed, with two longitudinal furrows on each flat side, about as long as the diameter of the shell, and one-fourth as broad at the base. The fourteen other spines very thin, also compressed, half as long and only one-fourth as broad as the six large spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14; length of the six hydrotomical spines 0.13, basal breadth 0.035.

Subgenus 2. Hexalaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, two opposite (equatorial) much larger than the four other (polar) spines.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size; the two equatorial spines about as long as the shell-radius and twice as long as the four polar spines, which are isosceles triangular. The fourteen other spines are only half as long and one-fourth as broad as the latter, little prominent. (Resembles Hexonaspis hastata, Pl. 140, fig. 16, which is distinguishable by the furrows on the six spines and by the total absence of the fourteen external rudimentary spines.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15; length of the two equatorial spines 0.08, of the four polar spines 0.04, of the fourteen other spines 0.02.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size; the two equatorial spines somewhat longer than the diameter of the shell and three times as long as the four polar spines, all six triangular, smooth, of the same basal breadth (equal to half the radius). The fourteen other spines very thin, conical at the base, nearly as long as the radius.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.21; length of the two equatorial spines 0.24, of the eighteen others 0.08 to 0.1; basal breadth of the six larger spines 0.05, of the fourteen others 0.01.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size; the two equatorial very large, six-sided prismatic, twice as long as the diameter of the shell and four times as long as the four pyramidal polar spines; each of these six spines with six deep furrows between the six prominent edges. The fourteen other spines very thin, compressed, two-edged, about as long as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11; length of the two equatorial spines 0.2, of the eighteen others 0.04 to 0.06; basal breadth of the six larger spines 0.03, of the fourteen others 0.01.

Genus 377. Hexaconus,^[417] n. gen.

Definition.—Hexalaspida with twenty prominent radial spines, which are surrounded at the base by prominent sheaths; the six hydrotomical spines much larger than the fourteen others.

The genus Hexaconus differs from the preceding Hexalaspis in the development of conical or cylindrical sheaths surrounding the basal parts of the radial spines; these sheaths are developed sometimes around all twenty spines, sometimes only around the six larger hydrotomical spines.

Subgenus 1. Hexaconarium, Haeckel.

All six hydrotomical spines of nearly equal size, pyramidal, with six prominent edges, somewhat longer than the radius of the shell. Sheaths sulcated, finely ciliated at the mouth, twice as broad as long and only one-fourth as long as the spines. The fourteen smaller spines very thin, bristle-shaped, shorter than the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.16; length of the six hydrotomical spines 0.11; basal breadth 0.03.

All six hydrotomical spines of equal size, conical, somewhat compressed, with two prominent edges, scarcely as long as the radius of the shell. Sheaths crested, strongly dentated on the mouth, three times as broad as long and only one-sixth as long as the spines. Fourteen smaller spines about half as large as the six principal spines, of the same form, but without coronated sheaths.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2; length of the six hydrotomical spines 0.1; basal breadth 0.02.

All six hydrotomical spines of equal size, conical, somewhat compressed, shorter than the radius of the shell. Sheaths very large, truncated conical, enveloping the spines almost entirely, with crested wall, only half as broad at the constricted mouth as at the base. The fourteen smaller spines about half as large as the six principal spines, of the same form, but without large sheaths.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.12; length of the six hydrotomical spines 0.05; basal breadth 0.01.

Subgenus 2. Hexaconidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, two opposite (equatorial) much larger than the four other (polar) spines.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, the two equatorial being as long as the radius of the shell and one and a half times as large as the four polar; all of the same form, triangular, compressed, with six prominent edges. Sheaths cylindrical, half as long as the spines, with prominent crests, and with strong serrated teeth at the distal mouth. The fourteen smaller spines scarcely one-fourth or one-sixth as large as the six principal spines, without prominent sheaths.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2; length of the equatorial spines 0.1, basal breadth 0.05; length and breadth of the sheaths 0.05.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size; the two equatorial very stout, pyramidal, six-edged, nearly as long as the diameter of the shell, and on the base three to four times as broad as the eighteen other spines, which are much thinner, all nearly of equal length, and two-edged. All {878}twenty spines are provided with prominent basal sheaths, which are truncate conical, sulcate, and dentate on the narrowed distal mouth. The sheaths of the six hydrotomical spines are twice to three times as large as those of the fourteen smaller spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15; length of the spines 0.12; basal breadth of the equatorial spines 0.04, of the other spines 0.02; length of the hydrotomical sheaths 0.05, of the other sheaths 0.02.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size; the two equatorial, and their sheaths twice as large as the four polar spines. These six spines are six-edged, pyramidal, and their basal half enveloped by very large conical sheaths which are sulcate, and twice as broad on the dentate distal mouth as on the narrower base. The other fourteen spines are very thin, two-edged, half as long, with low sheaths. Approaches some forms of Diploconus.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15; length of the equatorial spines 0.13, of the polar spines 0.08.

Genus 378. Hexonaspis,^[418] n. gen.

Definition.—Hexalaspida with six prominent radial spines (in the hydrotomical plane) which are not surrounded by prominent sheaths; the fourteen other spines quite rudimentary, not prominent.

The genus Hexonaspis and the following Hexacolpus differ from the two preceding genera in the rudimentary shape of the fourteen reduced and stunted smaller spines; these are only developed inside the shell, and are not prominent outside over its surface.

Subgenus 1. Hexonasparium, Haeckel.

All six hydrotomical spines of nearly equal size, isosceles triangular, compressed, smooth, about as long as the diameter of the shell and three times as long as broad at the base. This species is very similar to Hexalaspis heliodiscus (Pl. 139, fig. 2), but differs in the larger size of the six marginal spines and in the complete external absence of the fourteen smaller spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13; length of the six marginal spines 0.12, basal breadth 0.04.

All six hydrotomical spines of nearly equal size, triangular, compressed, six-edged, about as long as the radius of the shell and twice as long as broad on the base. Two strong prominent ribs on each flat side of the spines. Shell very thick-walled, with a very small cavity.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.11; length of the six marginal spines 0.06, basal breadth 0.03.

All six hydrotomical spines of equal size, very short, triangular, only half as long as broad at the base. The whole shell accordingly forms a regular hexagon, the six corners of which are formed by the distal points of the rudimentary spines, the six sides by their straight lateral edges. Shell very dark.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2; length of the six marginal spines 0.03, basal breadth 0.06.

Subgenus 2. Hexonaspidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, two opposite (equatorial) much larger than the four other (polar) spines.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size; two larger equatorial spines with six prominent wings, about as long as the radius of the shell and half as broad at the base; the four polar spines quite as broad, but only half as long, nearly equilateral triangular, with two shallow furrows on each flat side at the broader base. The fourteen smaller spines not visible on the surface, quite rudimentary. Crests of the surface elegantly denticulated.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.14; length of the two equatorial spines 0.08, of the four polar spines 0.04; basal breadth 0.04.

Genus 379. Hexacolpus,^[419] n. gen.

Definition.—Hexalaspida with six prominent radial spines (in the hydrotomical plane), which are surrounded by prominent sheaths at the base; the fourteen other spines quite rudimentary, not prominent.

The genus Hexacolpus differs from the preceding Hexonaspis in the development of conical or cylindrical sheaths around the basal parts of the radial spines. It bears to the latter the same relation as Hexaconus exhibits to Hexalaspis.

Subgenus 1. Hexacolparium, Haeckel.

Hexalaspis nivalis, Haeckel, 1882, Manuscript et Atlas.

All six hydrotomical spines of nearly equal size and equidistant, thin, lanceolate, compressed, somewhat shorter than the diameter of the hexagonal shell. Sheaths nearly prismatic, conical in the distal third, each with twelve prominent parallel crests, which are separated by twelve deep furrows; their contracted distal opening or mouth denticulate. The sheaths are as long as the radius of the shell, and envelop two-thirds of the spines. (Resembles certain forms of snow-crystals.)

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.15, thickness of its wall 0.08; length of the spines 0.1, of the sheath 0.007; breadth of the latter 0.04.

All six hydrotomical spines of equal size and equidistant, triangular, compressed, about as long as the radius of the circular shell. Sheaths conical, sulcate, half as broad on the serrate distal end as on the base. The sheaths envelop the basal half of the spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.18; length of the spines 0.1, of the sheaths 0.06; basal breadth of the latter 0.07, distal breadth 0.04.

Subgenus 2. Hexacolpidium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, two opposite (equatorial) much larger than the four other (polar) spines.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, two equatorial about as long as the diameter of the shell and nearly twice as large as the four polar; all of the same form, quadrangular prismatic, with prominent edges and pointed distal ends. Sheaths six-sided prismatic, with strong prominent edges and thinner parallel ribs between them; their distal mouth with six strong denticulated teeth. The sheaths envelop two-thirds of the spines, and are as broad as the radius of the shell.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.13; length of the equatorial spines 0.12, of their sheaths 0.08; breadth of the latter 0.06.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, two equatorial about as long as the radius of the shell and twice as large as the four polar; all of the same form, triangular, compressed, sulcated. Sheaths prismatic, with twelve prominent, parallel edges, and twelve strong serrated triangular teeth on the mouth. The sheaths envelop the basal half of the spines. This species greatly resembles Hexaconus serratus (Pl. 139, fig. 4), but differs in the larger size of the equatorial spines and the complete reduction of the fourteen smaller spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.2; length of the equatorial spines 0.1, of their sheaths 0.06; breadth of the latter 0.08.

Six hydrotomical spines of unequal size, two equatorial about twice as long as the diameter of the shell and as the four polar spines; all six spines of the same form, quadrangular prismatic, pointed at the distal pyramidal end. Sheaths conical, two to three times as broad at the denticulate distal mouth as at the narrow base, sulcate; the mantle of the cone concavely vaulted. The large sheaths envelop two-thirds or three-fourths of the spines.

Dimensions.—Diameter of the shell 0.1 to 0.13; length of the equatorial spines 0.15 to 0.2, of their sheaths 0.1 to 0.15; basal breadth of the latter 0.04, distal breadth 0.12.

Family XLIV. Diploconida, Haeckel (Pl. 140).

Definition.—Acantharia with simple diploconical shell, composed of two very large equatorial spines which are opposite in the hydrotomical axis, are surrounded by conical or cylindrical, often compressed sheaths, and arise from a small central {882}lattice-shell. Eighteen other spines (disposed according to the Müllerian law of Icosacantha) much smaller, often rudimentary. Central capsule ellipsoidal or diploconical.

The family Diploconida, founded by me in 1862 for a single Mediterranean species (Diploconus fasces), appears to be the most aberrant and strange form among the Acantharia. As I had met with only a single specimen, very dark and intransparent in its central part, my observations on its structure were imperfect and the explanation of it partly erroneous (compare my Monograph, pp. 46, 404, Taf. xx. figs. 7, 8). However, I regarded Diploconus as the representative of quite a peculiar family, derived from the Acanthometrida, and I correctly compared the large opposite radial spines of one equatorial axis with the corresponding parts in Amphilonche.

Afterwards Richard Hertwig observed some specimens of Diploconus fasces in the same locality (Messina), and gave an accurate description of its central capsule, including numerous small nuclei (1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 28, Taf. ii. fig. 3). He found also that the peculiar diploconical skeleton is not composed of silex, but of acanthin. In the explanation of the shell-structure he adopted my opinion.

In the rich collections of the Challenger I detected ten different forms of Diploconida, all very rare, and for the most part represented only by single specimens. A twelfth species was found by me in the collection of Captain Rabbe from the Indian Ocean. By the study of these new forms, and particularly by their comparison with the most nearly allied Hexalaspida and Belonaspida, it was possible for me to correct some errors in my former description and to give a much more correct description and natural explanation of this very peculiar and strange family of Radiolaria (compare Pl. 140).

The most characteristic and the most voluminous part of the acanthinic skeleton in all Diploconida appears as the diploconical or nearly cylindrical solid "mantle" giving them their name and odd appearance (Pl. 140). Usually this mantle is broader on its two opposite terminal openings than in its more or less constricted middle part. This latter is now more spherical or ellipsoidal, now more lenticular, and usually separated from the two cones by two slight transverse strictures. On the surface of this middle part twelve to eighteen radial spines, which in Diplocolpus are rudimentary or absent, are visible in Diploconus. The longitudinal axis of this shell is constantly occupied by a very large pair of opposite stout prismatic or cylindrical principal spines, which are united in the centre and usually more or less prominent with their distal apex over the two openings of the double cone.

In my first communication on the Diploconus (1862, loc. cit.) I correctly compared these two large spines in the prolonged main axis of the shell to the principal equatorial spines of Amphilonche (or to the "hydrotomical spines," c1, c3); but my explanation of the two peculiar cones enveloping them was erroneous. I supposed at that time that they were formed by the eight flattened and leaf-shaped curved {883}tropical spines, so that around each principal spine the four neighbouring tropical spines (two of the northern and two of the southern hemisphere) had grow together by their edges and formed the peculiar conical sheath. I can now say that this opinion (afterwards adopted also by Hertwig) was quite erroneous, the two conical or funnel-shaped sheaths being the enlarged basal sheaths of the two hydrotomical spines, which we have already seen in the Hexalaspida (Pl. 139). But whilst in these latter all six principal spines of the hydrotomical meridian plane are hypertrophied (two equatorial and four polar spines), in the nearly allied Diploconida only the two opposite equatorial spines are developed, whilst all other eighteen spines are more or less atrophied or quite rudimentary. In Diploconus the latter are more or less evident, whilst in Diplocolpus they disappear externally.

The true lattice-shell of the Acanthophracta (constantly composed of the meeting apophyses of twenty radial spines) is therefore represented in the Diploconida by the small roundish middle part of the whole shell, which is usually much smaller than the two opposite cones, and separated from them by the two slight transverse strictures. Usually this small but most important middle part of the shell is very dark and opaque, on account of its very thick wall and small pores; but in some species it is clear enough to ascertain that the structure of this lattice-shell is the same as in the lenticular Hexalaspida, there being a network of thick crests on the outer surface and small pores in the dimples between them. Indeed, in many (and probably in all) Diploconida the forty aspinal pores are present which we found in all Hexalaspida, Belonaspida, and Diporaspida, so that these four families of Acanthophracta represent one continuous phylogenetical series; Phractaspis among the Diporaspida is at the beginning, and Diplocolpus among the Diploconida at the end of this remarkably transformed morphological series.

The twenty radial spines in all Diploconida are probably united very firmly (or even perfectly grown together) in the centre of the small thick-walled lattice-shell, the inner space of which is extremely reduced. Probably, too, the sutures between the meeting apophyses of the thick radial spines are often (or even constantly) obliterated by concrescence, so that the whole shell forms a single piece of acanthin. But I regret that I cannot ascertain these and other points in the structure of the shell, as the small number of specimens observed did not permit an anatomical examination to be made. I have no doubt, however, that the structure of the whole of the middle main part of the shell is quite the same as in the lenticular shell of the thick-walled Hexalaspida, and that in both families each of the twenty radial spines bears originally only two opposite apophyses.

The characteristic mantle of the double cone of the Diploconida, or the basal sheath of their two large, perfectly developed principal spines is usually much larger than the shell itself, and more or less compressed from both poles of the shortened geotomical axis. Therefore the transverse section of the two cones is usually elliptical, more {884}rarely circular. Their widest part is generally the distal opening; more rarely this is a little constricted. The thin transparent lamella of acanthin, representing the mantle of the double cone, is commonly ribbed or furrowed by longitudinal, parallel or divergent crests, and elegantly denticulated on the edge of the distal opening.

The two conical or cylindrical halves of the mantle are connected with the two enclosed principal spines not only at the base, where they arise from the small central lattice-shell, but also throughout a certain part of their length, by means of two, four, or six wings or leaves, which lie opposite and in pairs in the meridian planes of those spines. These meridian wings are more or less triangular (with broader concave outer bases), and connected by their axial edge with the spine and by their peripheral edge with the mantle. They separate two, four, or six conical spaces or pyramidal compartments in each cone. But these aspinal compartments and the separating septa are not new productions of the Diploconida, but are inherited from their ancestral family, the Hexalaspida (compare above, p. 873).

The eighteen smaller spines in Diploconus are either of nearly equal size or more or less differentiated. The eight tropical spines are often much larger than the eight polar spines. The two geotomical spines, (or the two opposite equatorial spines of the shortened geotomical axis) are often quite rudimentary. In Diplocolpus the external part (outside the shell) is in all eighteen smaller spines rudimentary or atrophied.

The Central Capsule, as shown by Hertwig, contains numerous small nuclei, and is divided into three parts by the above named two transverse strictures; the smaller central part (in the original lenticular lattice-shell) and the two opposite larger parts, filling up the greater part of the two conical or cylindrical sheaths, and more or less adopting their form. Corresponding to the shell itself the enclosed capsule is often more or less flattened, being compressed at both poles of the geotomical axis. The pseudopodia seem to proceed only from the two large polar apertures of the sheaths, and form therefore two opposite conical tufts or bunches.

Synopsis of the Genera of Diploconida.

Genus 380. Diploconus,^[420] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 404.

Definition.—Diploconida with two very large spines (opposite in the hydrotomical axis) and ten to eighteen other much smaller spines externally visible.

The genus Diploconus must be derived from Hexacolpus (among the Hexalaspida) by the stronger development of the two hydrotomical spines and their large sheaths; all the other eighteen spines are much smaller, and usually devoid of prominent sheaths. Sometimes the eight tropical spines are rudimentary.

Subgenus 1. Diploconulus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Mantle of the double cone not compressed; its transverse section therefore circular.

Mantle of the double cone thick walled, not compressed, its transverse section circular; its contour little convex; its surface nearly smooth; its distal margin regularly denticulated. Diameter of its mouth twice as large as the equatorial diameter of the shell and one-third as long as its total length. The two large spines prismatic, one-fourth longer than their conical sheath. The eighteen smaller spines very thin, about half as long as the former, a little curved.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.3; equatorial breadth 0.05, polar breadth 0.1.

Mantle of the double cone thin walled, not compressed; its transverse section circular; its contour strongly convex; its surface with six stronger and many smaller ribs; its margin with numerous straight and long, parallel denticles. Diameter of its mouth half as long as the whole shell and one and a half times as long as its equatorial diameter. The two principal spines one-fourth longer than their conical sheath. The eighteen smaller spines about half as long, thin, straight. Both geotomical spines thick and short.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2; equatorial breadth 0.07, polar breadth 0.1.

Mantle of the double cone thick walled, dark, cylindrical, not compressed; its transverse section circular; its contours straight, parallel; its surface with strong parallel straight longitudinal ribs; its margin irregularly dentated. Diameter of its mouth one-fifth as long as the whole shell and two-thirds as long as the diameter of the equatorial intumescence. The two principal spines prismatic, nearly twice as long as their cylindrical sheath. The smaller spines about half as long, thin, conical, straight. (Resembles the medial part of Hexacolpus trypanon, Pl. 140, fig. 11.)

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.25; equatorial breadth 0.08, polar breadth 0.05.

Subgenus 2. Diploconium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Mantle of the double cone compressed from both poles of the shortened geotomical axis; its transverse section therefore elliptical.

Diploconus fasces, Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 405, Taf. xx. figs. 7, 8.

Diploconus fasces, R. Hertwig, 1879, Organismus d. Radiol., p. 28, Taf. ii. fig. 3.

Mantle of the double cone compressed, with elliptical transverse section; its contour straight; its surface with numerous longitudinal furrows; its margin finely denticulated. Diameter of its mouth two-fifths as long as the whole shell and three times as broad as its equatorial diameter. The two main spines one-third longer than their conical sheath, four-edged. The eighteen smaller spines thick and short, cylindrical or a little compressed.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.18; equatorial breadth 0.025, polar breadth 0.07.

Mantle of the double cone compressed, thin walled, with elliptical transverse section; its contour convex; surface and margin nearly smooth. Diameter of its mouth half as long as the whole shell and twice as long as its equatorial diameter. The two main spines scarcely longer than their hemispherical sheath. The smaller spines conical, straight, nearly of the same length.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.3; equatorial breadth 0.08, polar breadth 0.15.

Diploconus saturnus, Haeckel, 1879, Natürl. Schöpfungsgesch., Aufl. vii. p. 706, Taf. xvi. fig. 11.

Mantle of the double cone compressed, thick walled, with elliptical transverse section; its contour convex; its surface with numerous deep and irregular longitudinal furrows and marginal incisions. Diameter of its mouth one-third as long as the whole shell and twice as broad as its equatorial diameter. The two hydrotomical spines short, scarcely longer than their sheath. The eighteen other spines thin, cylindrical, nearly of the same length, curved. (Resembles a sheaf.)

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.24; equatorial breadth 0.04, polar breadth 0.07.

Mantle of the double cone compressed, thick walled, with elliptical transverse section; its contour straight; surface with six stronger and numerous smaller straight ribs and six marginal {887}denticulate incisions. Diameter of its mouth one-third as long as the whole shell and somewhat smaller than the equatorial diameter. Hydrotomical spines about twice as long as their sheath, pyramidal, with emarginate point and six wings. Geotomical spines short and strong, pyramidal. Sixteen other spines thin, straight, conical.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.3; equatorial breadth 0.11, polar breadth 0.1.

Genus 381. Diplocolpus,^[421] n. gen.

Definition.—Diploconida with only two developed, very large spines (opposite in the hydrotomical axis); all the other eighteen spines quite rudimentary or externally atrophied.

The genus Diplocolpus is the last and the most modified genus among the Acantharia. The eighteen smaller spines of Diploconus are here quite rudimentary or have even perfectly disappeared by atrophy, so that the shell seems to consist only of the large hydrotomical spines and their enveloping sheaths.

Subgenus 1. Diplocolpulus, Haeckel.

Definition.—Mantle of the double cone not compressed; its transverse section therefore circular.

Mantle of the double cone thin walled, not compressed; its transverse section circular or nearly hexagonal; its contour little convex; surface with six thick longitudinal equidistant ribs and many thinner ribs between them; margin denticulate. Transverse diameter of the shell one-third as long as the longitudinal. The two hydrotomical spines thick and short, little prominent over the polar mouth. No rudiments of other spines visible externally.

Mantle of the double cone thick walled, not compressed; its transverse section circular or hexagonal; its contour nearly straight; surface with six thick prominent longitudinal equidistant ribs; margin irregularly dentated. Transverse diameter of the shell half as long as the longitudinal. {888}The two hydrotomical spines very thick and short, pyramidal, little prominent. Short rudiments of the eighteen other spines present, bristle-shaped.

Subgenus 2. Diplocolpium, Haeckel.

Definition.—Mantle of the double cone compressed from both poles of the shortened geotomical axis; its transverse section therefore elliptical.

Mantle of the double cone thick walled, compressed, with elliptical transverse section; its surface with numerous delicate ribs; contour little convex; margin regularly serrate. Hydrotomical spines short, pyramidal, with six serrate wings. Transverse diameter of the shell nearly twice as great at the polar mouth as at the equator and half as long as the whole shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.15; breadth on the equator 0.035, on the poles 0.07.

Mantle of the double cone thin walled, compressed, with elliptical transverse section; its contour straight; surface with six deeper and numerous shallower furrows; margin denticulated, with six triangular prominent larger teeth. Hydrotomical spines very large prismatic, pyramidal at the ends. Transverse diameter of the shell a little larger at the polar mouth than at the equator and half as long as the whole shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.2; breadth on the equator 0.08, on the poles 0.1.

Mantle of the double cone thin walled, compressed, with elliptical transverse section; its contour straight; surface with twelve to sixteen deep longitudinal furrows, which are separated by thin, undulating, double edged ribs; margin little dentated. Hydrotomical spines short, pyramidal, with six dentate wings. Transverse diameter of the shell a little larger at the polar mouth than at the equator, about one-third of the whole length of the shell.

Dimensions.—Length of the shell 0.17; breadth on the equator 0.05, on the poles 0.06.

Principal Groups of Ground-Forms.	Subsidiary Groups of Ground-Forms.	Geometrical Type.	Examples.
I. Centrostigma. The geometrical centre of the body is a point. Main axis wanting.	I. Homaxonia. All axes equal	1. Sphere,	Central capsule of the Sphæroidea and of many Acantharia.
	II. Polyaxonia. Endospherical polyhedra. All the angles of the body lie on the surface of a sphere. Numerous isopolar axes.	2. Endospherical polyhedron,	Lattice-spheres of the Sphæroidea, Sphærophracta, and Phæosphæria.
		3. Icosahedron,	Circogonia.
		4. Dodecahedron,	Circorrhegma.
		5. Octahedron,	Cubosphærida, Circoporus.
		6. Cube,	Centrocubus, Lithocubus, &c.
		7. Tetrahedron,	Tetraplagia, Tetraplecta, &c.
{xix} II. Centraxonia. The geometrical centre of the body is a straight line (the vertical main axis). Constant transverse axes (perpendicular to the main axis) are wanting in the Monaxonia (which have circular transverse sections); on the contrary they are differentiated in the Stauraxonia (which have polygonal transverse sections).	III. Monaxonia. Uniaxial ground-forms or centraxonia without transverse axes. The transverse planes (perpendicular to the main axis) are circles.	8. Monaxonia isopola. (Spheroids and ellipsoids; both poles of the main axis similar.)	Central capsule and lattice-shell of of many Discoidea (lenses) and Prunoidea (ellipsoids), Belonaspida, &c.
		9. Monaxonia allopola. (Cone, ovoid and hemisphere; the two poles of the axis dissimilar.)	Central capsule and lattice-shell of many Nassellaria, especially the Cyrtoidea eradiata (Cyrtocalpida, &c.).
	IV. Stauraxonia. Pyramidal ground-forms or centraxonia with transverse axes. The transverse planes (perpendicular to the main axis) are either regular or amphithect polygons.	10. Dipyramides regulares. (Quadratic octahedron, or quadrilonchial forms and regular double pyramids.)	Acantharia with twenty radial spines, the four equatorial being equal. Multiradial Discoidea and Staurosphærida.
		11. Dipyramides amphithectæ. (Rhombic octahedron, lentellipsoid, and amphithect double pyramids.)	Acantharia with twenty radial spines, whose four equatorial spines are unequal but paired. Many Larcoidea.
		12. Pyramides regulares. (Regular pyramids.)	Many Nassellaria (triradial and multiradial). Medusettida and Tuscarorida.
		13. Pyramides amphithectæ. (Rhombic pyramids.)	Phæoconchia. Bipedal Spyroidea and Stephoidea.
III. Centroplana. The geometrical centre of the body is a plane (the sagittal plane).	V. Bilateralia (or Zeugita). Bilateral forms in the general sense, with right and left halves.	14. Amphipleura (Bilaterally radial ground-form.)	Many Cyrtoidea and Spyroidea multiradiata.
		15. Zygopleura. (Bilaterally symmetrical ground-form.)	Most Nassellaria (primitively at least), many Challengerida.
IV. Acentra. There is no geometrical centre.	VI. Anaxonia. No definite axes can be determined.	16. Irregularia. (Absolutely irregular ground-forms.)	Collodastrum, Collosphæra, Phorticida, Soreumida.

Principal Groups of Ground-Forms.
	Subsidiary Groups of Ground-Forms.
		Geometrical Type.
			Examples.
I. Centrostigma. The geometrical centre of the body is a point. Main axis wanting.
	I. Homaxonia. All axes equal.
	I. Homaxonia. All axes equal.
		1. Sphere,
		1. Sphere,
			Central capsule of the Sphæroidea and of many Acantharia.
	II. Polyaxonia. Endospherical polyhedra. All the angles of the body lie on the surface of a sphere. Numerous isopolar axes.

		2. Endospherical polyhedron,
		2. Endospherical polyhedron,
			Lattice-spheres of the Sphæroidea, Sphærophracta, and Phæosphæria.
		3. Icosahedron,
		3. Icosahedron,
			Circogonia.
		4. Dodecahedron,
		4. Dodecahedron,
			Circorrhegma.
		5. Octahedron,
		5. Octahedron,
			Cubosphærida, Circoporus.
		6. Cube,
		6. Cube,
			Centrocubus, Lithocubus, &c.
		7. Tetrahedron,
		7. Tetrahedron,
			Tetraplagia, Tetraplecta, &c.
II. Centraxonia. The geometrical centre of the body is a straight line (the vertical main axis). Constant transverse axes (perpendicular to the main axis) are wanting in the Monaxonia (which have circular transverse sections); on the contrary they are differentiated in the Stauraxonia (which have polygonal transverse sections).
	III. Monaxonia. Uniaxial ground-forms or centraxonia without transverse axes. The transverse planes (perpendicular to the main axis) are circles.

		8. Monaxonia isopola. (Spheroids and ellipsoids; both poles of the main axis similar.)

			Central capsule and lattice-shell of of many Discoidea (lenses) and Prunoidea (ellipsoids), Belonaspida, &c.
		9. Monaxonia allopola. (Cone, ovoid and hemisphere; the two poles of the axis dissimilar.)

			Central capsule and lattice-shell of many Nassellaria, especially the Cyrtoidea eradiata (Cyrtocalpida, &c.).
	IV. Stauraxonia. Pyramidal ground-forms or centraxonia with transverse axes. The transverse planes (perpendicular to the main axis) are either regular or amphithect polygons.

		10. Dipyramides regulares. (Quadratic octahedron, or quadrilonchial forms and regular double pyramids.)

			Acantharia with twenty radial spines, the four equatorial being equal. Multiradial Discoidea and Staurosphærida.
		11. Dipyramides amphithectæ. (Rhombic octahedron, lentellipsoid, and amphithect double pyramids.)

			Acantharia with twenty radial spines, whose four equatorial spines are unequal but paired. Many Larcoidea.
		12. Pyramides regulares. (Regular pyramids.)
		12. Pyramides regulares. (Regular pyramids.)
			Many Nassellaria (triradial and multiradial). Medusettida and Tuscarorida.
		13. Pyramides amphithectæ. (Rhombic pyramids.)
		13. Pyramides amphithectæ. (Rhombic pyramids.)
			Phæoconchia. Bipedal Spyroidea and Stephoidea.
III. Centroplana. The geometrical centre of the body is a plane (the sagittal plane). Constant transverse axes (perpendicular to the main axis) are wanting in the Monaxonia (which have circular transverse sections); on the contrary they are differentiated in the Stauraxonia (which have polygonal transverse sections).
	V. Bilateralia (or Zeugita). Bilateral forms in the general sense, with right and left halves.

		14. Amphipleura (Bilaterally radial ground-form.)
		14. Amphipleura (Bilaterally radial ground-form.)
			Many Cyrtoidea and Spyroidea multiradiata.
		15. Zygopleura. (Bilaterally symmetrical ground-form.)
		15. Zygopleura. (Bilaterally symmetrical ground-form.)
			Most Nassellaria (primitively at least), many Challengerida.
IV. Acentra. There is no geometrical centre.
	VI. Anaxonia. No definite axes can be determined.
	VI. Anaxonia. No definite axes can be determined.
		16. Irregularia. (Absolutely irregular ground-forms.)
		16. Irregularia. (Absolutely irregular ground-forms.)
			Collodastrum, Collosphæra, Phorticida, Soreumida.

Four Legions.	Eight Sublegions.	Twenty Orders.	Typical Families.
I. Legion (or Subclass) Spumellaria (Peripylea) [Porulosa peripylea.]	I. Collodaria (Spumellaria palliata)	1. Colloidea,	1a. Thalassicollida.
			1b. Collozoida.
		2. Beloidea,	2a. Thalassosphærida.
			2b. Sphærozoida.
	II. Sphærellaria (Spumellaria loricata)	3. Sphæroidea,	3a. Ethmosphærida.
			3b. Collosphærida.
		4. Prunoidea,	4a. Ellipsida.
			4b. Zygartida.
		5. Discoidea,	5a. Phacodiscida.
			5b. Porodiscida.
		6. Larcoidea,	6a. Larnacida.
			6b. Pylonida.
II. Legion (or Subclass) Acantharia (Cannopylea). [Osculosa cannopylea.]	III. Acanthometra (Acantharia palliata)	7. Actinelida,	7a. Astrolophida.
			7b. Litholophida.
			7c. Chiastolida.
		8. Acanthonida,	8a. Astrolonchida.
			8b. Quadrilonchida.
			8c. Amphilonchida.
	IV. Acanthophracta (Acantharia loricata)	9. Sphærophracta,	9a. Sphærocapsida.
			9b. Dorataspida.
			9c. Phractopeltida.
		10. Prunophracta,	10a. Belonaspida.
			10b. Hexalaspida.
			10c. Diploconida.
{ciii} III. Legion (or Subclass) Nassellaria (Monopylea) [Osculosa monopylea.]	V. Plectellaria (Nassellaria palliata)	11. Nassoidea,	11. Nassellida.
		12. Plectoidea,	12a. Plagonida.
			12b. Plectanida.
		13. Stephoidea,	13a. Stephanida.
			13b. Tympanida.
	VI. Cyrtellaria (Nassellaria loricata)	14. Spyroidea,	14a. Zygospyrida.
			14b. Androspyrida.
		15. Botryodea,	15a. Cannobotryida.
			15b. Lithobotryida.
			15c. Pylobotryida.
		16. Cyrtoidea,	16a. Monocyrtida.
			16b. Dicyrtida.
			16c. Tricyrtida.
			16d. Stichocyrtida.
IV. Legion (or Subclass) Phæodaria (Actipylea) [Porulosa actipylea.]	VII. Phæocystina (Phæodaria palliata)	17. Phæocystina,	17a. Phæodinida.
			17b. Cannorrhaphida.
			17c. Aulacanthida.
		18. Phæosphæria,	18a. Orosphærida.
			18b. Aulosphærida.
			18c. Cannosphærida.
	VIII. Phæocoscina (Phæodaria loricata)	19. Phæogromia,	19a. Challengerida.
			19b. Castanellida.
			19c. Circoporida.
		20. Phæoconchia,	20a. Concharida.
			20b. Cœlodendrida.
			20c. Cœlographida.

Four Legions.
	Eight Sublegions.
		Twenty Orders.
			Typical Families.
I. Legion (or Subclass) (Peripylea) [Porulosa peripylea.]
	I. Collodaria (Spumellaria palliata)
	I. Collodaria (Spumellaria palliata)
		1. Colloidea,
		1. Colloidea,
			1a. Thalassicollida.
			1a. Thalassicollida.
			1b. Collozoida.
			1b. Collozoida.
		2. Beloidea,
		2. Beloidea,
			2a. Thalassosphærida.
			2a. Thalassosphærida.
			2b. Sphærozoida.
			2b. Sphærozoida.
	II. Sphærellaria (Spumellaria loricata)
	II. Sphærellaria (Spumellaria loricata)
		3. Sphæroidea,
		3. Sphæroidea,
			3a. Ethmosphærida.
			3a. Ethmosphærida.
			3b. Collosphærida.
			3b. Collosphærida.
		4. Prunoidea,
		4. Prunoidea,
			4a. Ellipsida.
			4a. Ellipsida.
			4b. Zygartida.
			4b. Zygartida.
		5. Discoidea,
		5. Discoidea,
			5a. Phacodiscida.
			5a. Phacodiscida.
			5b. Porodiscida.
			5b. Porodiscida.
		6. Larcoidea,
		6. Larcoidea,
			6a. Larnacida.
			6a. Larnacida.
			6b. Pylonida.
			6b. Pylonida.
II. Legion (or Subclass) Acantharia (Cannopylea). [Osculosa cannopylea.]
	III. Acanthometra (Acantharia palliata)
	III. Acanthometra (Acantharia palliata)
		7. Actinelida,
		7. Actinelida,
			7a. Astrolophida.
			7a. Astrolophida.
			7b. Litholophida.
			7b. Litholophida.
			7c. Chiastolida.
			7c. Chiastolida.
		8. Acanthonida,
		8. Acanthonida,
			8a. Astrolonchida.
			8a. Astrolonchida.
			8b. Quadrilonchida.
			8b. Quadrilonchida.
			8c. Amphilonchida.
			8c. Amphilonchida.
	IV. Acanthophracta (Acantharia loricata)
	IV. Acanthophracta (Acantharia loricata)
		9. Sphærophracta,
		9. Sphærophracta,
			9a. Sphærocapsida.
			9a. Sphærocapsida.
			9b. Dorataspida.
			9b. Dorataspida.
			9c. Phractopeltida.
			9c. Phractopeltida.
		10. Prunophracta,
		10. Prunophracta,
			10a. Belonaspida.
			10a. Belonaspida.
			10b. Hexalaspida.
			10b. Hexalaspida.
			10c. Diploconida.
			10c. Diploconida.
III. Legion (or Subclass) Nassellaria (Monopylea) [Osculosa monopylea.]
	V. Plectellaria (Nassellaria palliata)
	V. Plectellaria (Nassellaria palliata)
		11. Nassoidea,
		11. Nassoidea,
			11. Nassellida.
			11. Nassellida.
		12. Plectoidea,
		12. Plectoidea,
			12a. Plagonida.
			12a. Plagonida.
			12b. Plectanida.
			12b. Plectanida.
		13. Stephoidea,
		13. Stephoidea,
			13a. Stephanida.
			13a. Stephanida.
			13b. Tympanida.
			13b. Tympanida.
	VI. Cyrtellaria (Nassellaria loricata)
	VI. Cyrtellaria (Nassellaria loricata)
		14. Spyroidea,
		14. Spyroidea,
			14a. Zygospyrida.
			14a. Zygospyrida.
			14b. Androspyrida.
			14b. Androspyrida.
		15. Botryodea,
		15. Botryodea,
			15a. Cannobotryida.
			15a. Cannobotryida.
			15b. Lithobotryida.
			15b. Lithobotryida.
			15c. Pylobotryida.
			15c. Pylobotryida.
		16. Cyrtoidea,
		16. Cyrtoidea,
			16a. Monocyrtida.
			16a. Monocyrtida.
			16b. Dicyrtida.
			16b. Dicyrtida.
			16c. Tricyrtida.
			16c. Tricyrtida.
			16d. Stichocyrtida.
			16d. Stichocyrtida.
IV. Legion (or Subclass) Phæodaria (Actipylea) [Porulosa actipylea.]
	VII. Phæocystina (Phæodaria palliata)
	VII. Phæocystina (Phæodaria palliata)
		17. Phæocystina,
		17. Phæocystina,
			17a. Phæodinida.
			17a. Phæodinida.
			17b. Cannorrhaphida.
			17b. Cannorrhaphida.
			17c. Aulacanthida.
			17c. Aulacanthida.
		18. Phæosphæria,
		18. Phæosphæria,
			18a. Orosphærida.
			18a. Orosphærida.
			18b. Aulosphærida.
			18b. Aulosphærida.
			18c. Cannosphærida.
			18c. Cannosphærida.
	VIII. Phæocoscina (Phæodaria loricata)
	VIII. Phæocoscina (Phæodaria loricata)
		19. Phæogromia,
		19. Phæogromia,
			19a. Challengerida.
			19a. Challengerida.
			19b. Castanellida.
			19b. Castanellida.
			19c. Circoporida.
			19c. Circoporida.
		20. Phæoconchia,
		20. Phæoconchia,
			20a. Concharida.
			20a. Concharida.
			20b. Cœlodendrida.
			20b. Cœlodendrida.
			20c. Cœlographida.
			20c. Cœlographida.

Terrigenous deposits.	Shore formations,	Found in inland seas and along the shores of continents.
	Blue mud,
	Green mud and sand,
	Red mud,

	Volcanic mud and sand,	Found around oceanic islands and along the shores of continents.
	Coral mud and sand,
	Coralline mud and sand,

Abysmal deposits.	Globigerina ooze,	Found in the abysmal regions of the ocean basins.
	Pteropod ooze,
	Diatom ooze,
	Radiolarian ooze,
	Red clay,

FIRST PART.
GENERAL INTRODUCTION—							PAGE
I.	Anatomical Section (§§ 1-140),						i
			Chapter		I.	The Unicellular Organism,	i
			"		II.	The Central Capsule,	xxiv
			"		III.	The Extracapsulum,	li
			"		IV.	The Skeleton,	lxviii
II.	Biogenetical Section (§§ 141-200),						xciii
			Chapter		V.	Ontogeny (Individual Development),	xciii
			"		VI.	Phylogeny (Genealogical Development),	ci
III.	Physiological Section (§§ 201-225),						cxxviii
			Chapter		VII.	Vegetative Functions,	cxxviii
			"		VIII.	Animal Functions,	cxl
IV.	Chorological Section (§§ 226-250),						cxlvi
			Chapter		IX.	Geographical Distribution,	cxlvi
			"		X.	Geological Distribution,	clxiv
V.	Bibliographical Section (§§ 251-254),						clxxvi
SYSTEMATIC PART,							1
I.	Subclass PORULOSA,						6
		Legion I. SPUMELLARIA vel PERIPYLEA,					6
				Order	1.	Colloidea,	10
				"	2.	Beloidea,	28
				"	3.	Sphæroidea,	50
				"	4.	Prunoidea,	284
				"	5.	Discoidea,	402
				"	6.	Larcoidea,	599
		Legion II. ACANTHARIA vel ACTIPYLEA,					716
				Order	7.	Actinelida,	728
				"	8.	Acanthonida,	740
				"	9.	Sphærophracta,	795
				"	10.	Prunophracta,	859
SECOND PART.
II.	Subclass OSCULOSA,						889
		Legion III. NASSELLARIA vel MONOPYLEA,					889
				Order	11.	Nassoidea,	895
				"	12.	Plectoidea,	898
				"	13.	Stephoidea,	931
				"	14.	Spyroidea,	1015
				"	15.	Botryodea,	1103
				"	16.	Cyrtoidea,	1126
		Legion IV. PHÆODARIA vel CANNOPYLEA,					1521
				Order	17.	Phæocystina,	1542
				"	18.	Phæosphæria,	1590
				"	19.	Phæogromia,	1642
				"	20.	Phæoconchia,	1710
Note on the Dimensions and Measurements,							1760
ADDENDA,							1761
ERRATA,							1763
INDEX,							1765

rad. oz. = Radiolarian ooze (§ 237). gl. oz. = Globigerina ooze (§ 238). r. cl. = red clay (§ 239). pt. oz. = Pteropod ooze (see p. clviii). di. oz. = Diatom ooze (see p. clvii).	bl. m. = blue mud, gr. m. = green mud, volc. m. = volcanic mud,		terrigenous deposits (see p. clvi).
	r. m. = red mud.

rad. oz. = Radiolarian ooze (§ 237).
gl. oz. = Globigerina ooze (§ 238).
r. cl. = red clay (§ 239).
pt. oz. = Pteropod ooze (see p. clviii).
di. oz. = Diatom ooze (see p. clvii).
bl. m. = blue mud,		terrigenous deposits (see p. clvi).
gr. m. = green mud,
volc. m. = volcanic mud,
r. m. = red mud.

A. HOLOTRYPASTA.		B. MEROTRYPASTA.
Central capsule everywhere perforated by innumerable small pores.		Central capsule with one large main-opening (with or without small accessory openings).
Fundamental form originally homaxon (spherical or derived from a sphere).		Fundamental form originally monaxon (egg-shaped or perhaps dipleural).
I.	II.	III.	IV.
Spumellaria.	Acantharia.	Nassellaria.	Phæodaria.
(Peripylea.)	(Actipylea.)	(Monopylea.)	(Cannopylea.)
Wall-pores of the capsule equally disposed.	Wall-pores of the capsule symmetrically disposed.	Main-opening of the capsule with a porous operculum.	Main-opening of the capsule with a short tubule.
Skeleton siliceous or wanting.	Skeleton acanthinic (organic).	Skeleton siliceous (rarely wanting).	Skeleton siliceous (rarely wanting).
Calymma without phæodium.	Calymma without phæodium.	Calymma without phæodium.	Calymma constantly with a phæodium.

I. COLLODARIA. Skeleton wanting or quite imperfect, not latticed.	Skeleton entirely wanting,	1. Colloidea.
	Skeleton represented by numerous scattered spicules,	2. Beloidea.

II. SPHÆRELLARIA. Skeleton a perfect shell of lattice work, or spongy and resembling wicker-work.	Lattice-shell spherical or composed of concentric spheres,	3. Sphæroidea.
	Lattice-shell ellipsoidal or prolonged in one axis,	4. Prunoidea.
	Lattice-shell discoidal or shortened in one axis,	5. Discoidea.
	Lattice-shell lentelliptical, with different extent of growth in three axes,	6. Larcoidea.

I. COLLODARIA. Skeleton wanting or quite imperfect, not latticed.
	Skeleton entirely wanting,
	Skeleton entirely wanting,
		1. Colloidea.
		1. Colloidea.
	Skeleton represented by numerous scattered spicules,
	Skeleton represented by numerous scattered spicules,
		2. Beloidea.
		2. Beloidea.
II. SPHÆRELLARIA. Skeleton a perfect shell of lattice work, or spongy and resembling wicker-work.
	Lattice-shell spherical or composed of concentric spheres,
	Lattice-shell spherical or composed of concentric spheres,
		3. Sphæroidea.
		3. Sphæroidea.
	Lattice-shell ellipsoidal or prolonged in one axis,
	Lattice-shell ellipsoidal or prolonged in one axis,
		4. Prunoidea.
		4. Prunoidea.
	Lattice-shell discoidal or shortened in one axis,
	Lattice-shell discoidal or shortened in one axis,
		5. Discoidea.
		5. Discoidea.
	Lattice-shell lentelliptical, with different extent of growth in three axes,

		6. Larcoidea.
		6. Larcoidea.

Suborder I. COLLOIDEA. Skeleton entirely wanting.	Solitary cells, living as isolated individuals (Colloidea monozoa),	1. Thalassicollida.
	Associated cells, living in colonies or cœnobia (Colloidea polyzoa),	2. Collozoida.
Suborder II. BELOIDEA. Skeleton composed of numerous needles or spicula, scattered in the calymma.	Solitary cells, living as isolated individuals (Beloidea monozoa),	3. Thalassosphærida.
	Associated cells, living in colonies or cœnobia (Beloidea polyzoa),	4. Sphærozoida.

Skeleton entirely wanting.
	Solitary cells, living as isolated individuals (Colloidea monozoa),

		1. Thalassicollida.
		1. Thalassicollida.
	Associated cells, living in colonies or cœnobia (Colloidea polyzoa),

		2. Collozoida.
		2. Collozoida.
Suborder II. BELOIDEA. Skeleton composed of numerous needles or spicula, scattered in the calymma.
	Solitary cells, living as isolated individuals (Beloidea monozoa),

		3. Thalassosphærida.
		3. Thalassosphærida.
	Associated cells, living in colonies or cœnobia (Beloidea polyzoa),

		4. Sphærozoida.
		4. Sphærozoida.

A. Alveoli neither within nor without the central capsule.	Nucleus spherical (sometimes ellipsoidal), not branched,	1. Actissa.
B. Numerous large alveoli within the central capsule (not in the calymma).	Nucleus spherical,	2. Thalassolampe.
	Nucleus branched or covered with radial sacs,	3. Thalassopila.
C. Numerous large alveoli without the central capsule, within the jelly-veil or calymma.	Nucleus spherical,	4. Thalassicolla.
	Nucleus branched or covered with radial sacs,	5. Thalassophysa.

A. Alveoles neither within nor without the central capsule.	Spicula simple,	07. Thalassosphæra.
A. Alveoles neither within nor without the central capsule.	Spicula branched,	08. Thalassoxanthium.
B. Numerous large alveoles within the central capsule (not in the calymma).	Spicula simple,	09. Physematium.
C. Numerous large alveoles within the calymma (not in the central capsule).	Spicula simple,	10. Thalassoplancta.
	Spicula branched,	11. Lampoxanthium.

A. Spicula all of one kind, simple or needle-shaped,	12. Belonozoum.
B. Spicula all of one kind, branched or radiate, or geminate,	13. Sphærozoum.
C. Spicula of two more different kinds, partly simple, partly branched,	14. Rhaphidozoum.

Central capsule spherical.	Shell a simple sphere or a system of concentric spheres,	1. Sphæroidea.
Central capsule ellipsoidal or cylindrical.	Shell a simple ellipsoid or a cylinder with annular transverse constrictions,	2. Prunoidea.
Central capsule lenticular or discoidal.	Shell a biconvex lens or a flat disk,	3. Discoidea.
Central capsule lentelliptical or triaxon.	Shell a triaxon-ellipsoid, with three different axes,	4. Larcoidea.

Families and Subfamilies of SPHÆROIDEA.	Liosphærida (anacantha).	Stylosphærida (diacantha).	Staurosphærida (tetracantha).	Cubosphærida (hexacantha).	Astrosphærida (polyacantha).
Monosphærida. (One single shell.)	Ethmosphærida.	Xiphostylida.	Staurostylida.	Hexastylida.	Coscinommida.
Dyosphærida. (Two concentric shells.)	Carposphærida.	Sphærostylida.	Staurolonchida.	Hexalonchida.	Haliommida.
Triosphærida. (Three concentric shells.)	Thecosphærida.	Amphistylida.	Stauracontida.	Hexacontida.	Actinommida.
Tetrasphærida. (Four concentric shells.)	Cromyosphærida.	Cromyostylida.	Staurocromyida.	Hexacromyida.	Cromyommida.
Polysphærida. (Five or more concentric shells.)	Caryosphærida.	Caryostylida.	Staurocaryida.	Hexacaryida.	Arachnommida.
Spongosphærida. (Spongy shells.)	Plegmosphærida.	Spongostylida.	Staurodorida.	Hexadorida.	Spongiommida.

Surface of the spherical shell smooth, rough, or thorny, but not armed with radial spines.	A. Liosphærida monozoa. Single cells (each with shell) living solitary.	Spherical shell commonly quite regular, simple, or composed of two or more concentric spheres,	05. Liosphærida.
	B. Liosphærida polyzoa. Aggregated cells (each with shell) living in colonies.	Spherical shell commonly more or less irregular, simple (rarely composed of two concentric spheres),	06. Collosphærida.
Surface of the spherical shell armed with two, four, or six radial main spines, opposite in pairs in one, two, or three dimensive axes (always solitary).	Two radial main-spines, opposite in one axis of the shell		07. Stylosphærida.
	Four radial main-spines, opposite in pairs in two dimensive axes, perpendicular one to another,		08. Staurosphærida.
	Six radial main-spines, opposite in pairs in three dimensive axes (perpendicular one to another),		09. Cubosphærida.
Surface of the spherical shell covered with numerous (commonly irregularly disposed) radial spines, often also twelve to twenty, more or less regularly disposed,			10. Astrosphærida.

I. Subfamily Ethmosphærida. (Shell one single latticed sphere.)	Pores of the shell simple, not prolonged into free tubuli.	Shell cavity simple,	15. Cenosphæra.
		Shell cavity with radial beams united in the centre,	16. Stigmosphæra.
	Pores prolonged into free conical or cylindrical tubuli.	Tubuli external, centrifugal,	17. Ethmosphæra.
		Tubuli internal, centripetal,	18. Sethosphæra.
II. Subfamily Carposphærida. (Two concentric spheres.)	One shell medullary (intracapsular), the other cortical (extracapsular),		19. Carposphæra.
	Both shells cortical (near together),		20. Liosphæra.
III. Subfamily Thecosphærida. (Three concentric spheres.)	Two shells medullary (intracapsular), one shell cortical (extracapsular),		21. Thecosphæra.
	One shell medullary (intracapsular), two shells cortical (extracapsular),		22. Rhodosphæra.
IV. Subfamily Cromyosphærida. (Four concentric spheres.)	Two inner medullary shells (intracapsular), and two outer cortical shells (extracapsular),		23. Cromyosphæra.
V. Subfamily Caryosphærida. (Five or more concentric spheres.)	Two inner medullary shells, and three or more outer cortical shells,		24. Caryosphæra.
VI. Subfamily Plegmosphærida. (Spherical shell wholly or partially of spongy structure.)	Spongy sphere without latticed medullary shell in the centre.	Sphere solid,	25. Styptosphæra.
		Sphere with a central cavity,	26. Plegmosphæra.
	Spongy sphere with one or two latticed medullary shells in the centre.	One single medullary shell,	27. Spongoplegma.
		Two concentric medullary shells,	28. Spongodictyon.

I. Subfamily Ethmosphærida. (Shell one single latticed sphere.)
	Pores of the shell simple, not prolonged into free tubuli.
	Pores of the shell simple, not prolonged into free tubuli.
		Shell cavity simple,
		Shell cavity simple,
			15. Cenosphæra.
			15. Cenosphæra.
		Shell cavity with radial beams united in the centre,
		Shell cavity with radial beams united in the centre,
			16. Stigmosphæra.
			16. Stigmosphæra.
	Pores prolonged into free conical or cylindrical tubuli.
	Pores prolonged into free conical or cylindrical tubuli.
		Tubuli external, centrifugal,
		Tubuli external, centrifugal,
			17. Ethmosphæra.
			17. Ethmosphæra.
		Tubuli internal, centripetal,
		Tubuli internal, centripetal,
			18. Sethosphæra.
			18. Sethosphæra.
II. Subfamily Carposphærida. (Two concentric spheres.)
	One shell medullary (intracapsular), the other cortical (extracapsular),

			19. Carposphæra.
			19. Carposphæra.
	Both shells cortical (near together),
	Both shells cortical (near together),
			20. Liosphæra.
			20. Liosphæra.
III. Subfamily Thecosphærida. (Three concentric spheres.)
	Two shells medullary (intracapsular), one shell cortical (extracapsular),

			21. Thecosphæra.
			21. Thecosphæra.
	One shell medullary (intracapsular), two shells cortical (extracapsular),

			22. Rhodosphæra.
			22. Rhodosphæra.
IV. Subfamily Cromyosphærida. (Four concentric spheres.)
	Two inner medullary shells (intracapsular), and two outer cortical shells (extracapsular),

			23. Cromyosphæra.
			23. Cromyosphæra.
V. Subfamily Caryosphærida. (Five or more concentric spheres.)
	Two inner medullary shells, and three or more outer cortical shells,

			24. Caryosphæra.
			24. Caryosphæra.
VI. Subfamily Plegmosphærida. (Spherical shell wholly or partially of spongy structure.)
	Spongy sphere without latticed medullary shell in the centre.

		Sphere solid,
		Sphere solid,
			25. Styptosphæra.
			25. Styptosphæra.
		Sphere with a central cavity,
		Sphere with a central cavity,
			26. Plegmosphæra.
			26. Plegmosphæra.
	Spongy sphere with one or two latticed medullary shells in the centre.

		One single medullary shell,
		One single medullary shell,
			27. Spongoplegma.
			27. Spongoplegma.
		Two concentric medullary shells,
		Two concentric medullary shells,
			28. Spongodictyon.
			28. Spongodictyon.

I. Subfamily Acrosphærida. (Lattice-shell simple, without an external mantle of network.)	Outside of the shell smooth, without spines or tubuli.	Inside without tubuli.	Inside smooth,	29. Collosphæra.
			Inside spiny,	30. Tribonosphæra.
		Inside with centripetal tubuli.	Tubuli imperforated,	31. Pharyngosphæra.
			Tubuli fenestrated,	32. Buccinosphæra.
	Outside of the shell armed with solid spines, but with hollow tubuli.		Spines irregularly scattered on the surface,	33. Acrosphæra.
			Each larger pore with one single spine,	34. Odontosphæra.
			Each larger pore with a coronal of spines,	35. Chœnicosphæra.
	Outside of the shell with irregular radial tubuli, the wall of which is solid, not fenestrated.	Tubuli simple, not branched.	Mouth of the tubuli truncated, smooth,	36. Siphonosphæra.
			Mouth with one single large tooth,	37. Mazosphæra.
			Mouth with a coronal of teeth,	38. Trypanosphæra.
		Tubuli irregularly branched, each with two to four or more openings,		39. Caminosphæra.
	Outside of the shell with irregular radial tubuli, open on both ends, with fenestrated wall.		Mouth of the tubuli truncated, smooth,	40. Solenosphæra.
			Mouth with one single large tooth,	41. Otosphæra.
			Mouth with a coronal of teeth,	42. Coronosphæra.
II. Subfamily Clathrosphærida. (Lattice-shell double, with an external mantle of network.)			Surface of the outer shell smooth,	43. Clathrosphæra.
			Surface of the outer shell thorny,	44. Xanthiosphæra.

I. Subfamily Xiphostylida. (Spherical shell simple.)	Polar spines free, without connecting ring on the distal ends.	Both spines equal,	45. Xiphosphæra.
		Spines different in size or form,	46. Xiphostylus.
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,		47. Saturnalis.
II. Subfamily Sphærostylida. (Two concentric spheres.)	Polar spines free.	Both spines equal,	48. Stylosphæra.
		Spines different in size or form,	49. Sphærostylus.
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,		50. Saturnulus.
III. Subfamily Amphistylida. (Three concentric spheres.)	Polar spines free.	Both spines equal,	51. Amphisphæra.
		Spines different in size or form,	52. Amphistylus.
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,		53. Saturninus.
IV. Subfamily Cromyostylida. (Four concentric spheres.)	Polar spines free.	Both spines equal,	54. Stylocromyum.
		Spines different,	55. Cromyostylus.
V. Subfamily Caryostylida. (Five or more concentric spheres.)	Polar spines free.	Both spines equal,	56. Caryostylus.
VI. Subfamily Spongostylida. (Spherical shell partially or wholly of a spongy structure.)	Shell a solid spongy sphere without central medullary shell,		57. Spongolonchis.
	In the centre of the spongy sphere one or two medullary shells.	One central medullary shell,	58. Spongostylus.
		Two concentric medullary shells,	59. Spongostylidium.

I. Subfamily Xiphostylida. (Spherical shell simple.)
	Polar spines free, without connecting ring on the distal ends.

		Both spines equal,
		Both spines equal,
			45. Xiphosphæra.
			45. Xiphosphæra.
		Spines different in size or form,
		Spines different in size or form,
			46. Xiphostylus.
			46. Xiphostylus.
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,
			47. Saturnalis.
			47. Saturnalis.
II. Subfamily Sphærostylida. (Two concentric spheres.)
	Polar spines free.
	Polar spines free.
		Both spines equal,
		Both spines equal,
			48. Stylosphæra.
			48. Stylosphæra.
		Spines different in size or form,
		Spines different in size or form,
			49. Sphærostylus.
			49. Sphærostylus.
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,
			50. Saturnulus.
			50. Saturnulus.
III. Subfamily Amphistylida. (Three concentric spheres.)
	Polar spines free.
	Polar spines free.
		Both spines equal,
		Both spines equal,
			51. Amphisphæra.
			51. Amphisphæra.
		Spines different in size or form,
		Spines different in size or form,
			52. Amphistylus.
			52. Amphistylus.
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,
	Both polar spines united by a circular or elliptical ring,
			53. Saturninus.
			53. Saturninus.
IV. Subfamily Cromyostylida. (Four concentric spheres.)
	Polar spines free.
	Polar spines free.
		Both spines equal,
		Both spines equal,
			54. Stylocromyum.
			54. Stylocromyum.
		Spines different,
		Spines different,
			55. Cromyostylus.
			55. Cromyostylus.
V. Subfamily Caryostylida. (Five or more concentric spheres.)
	Polar spines free.
	Polar spines free.
		Both spines equal,
		Both spines equal,
			56. Caryostylus.
			56. Caryostylus.
VI. Subfamily Spongostylida. (Spherical shell partially or wholly of a spongy structure.)
	Shell a solid spongy sphere without central medullary shell,

			57. Spongolonchis.
			57. Spongolonchis.
	In the centre of the spongy sphere one or two medullary shells.

		One central medullary shell,
		One central medullary shell,
			58. Spongostylus.
			58. Spongostylus.
		Two concentric medullary shells,
		Two concentric medullary shells,
			59. Spongostylidium.
			59. Spongostylidium.

I. Subfamily Staurostylida. (Shell one single lattice-sphere.)	All four spines equal,		60. Staurosphæra.
	Four spines different in pairs,		61. Staurostylus.
	One spine larger than the three others,		62. Stylostaurus.
II. Subfamily Staurolonchida. (Shell with two concentric lattice-spheres.)	All four spines equal,	Simple,	63. Staurolonche.
		Branched,	64. Staurancistra.
	Four spines different in pairs,		65. Staurolonchidium.
	One spine larger than the three others,		66. Stauroxiphos.
III. Subfamily Stauracontida. (Shell with three concentric spheres.)	All four spines equal, simple,		67. Stauracontium.
IV. Subfamily Staurocromyida. (Shell with four concentric spheres.)	All four spines equal,	Simple,	68. Staurocromyum.
		Branched,	69. Cromyostaurus.
V. Subfamily Staurocaryida. (Shell with five or more concentric spheres.)	All four spines equal,		70. Staurocaryum.
VI. Subfamily Staurodorida. (Shell a spongy sphere.)	Solid spongy sphere without medullary shell,		71. Staurodoras.

The Project Gutenberg eBook, Report on the Radiolaria Collected by H.M.S. Challenger During the Years 1873-1876, First Part: Porulosa (Spumellaria and Acantharia), by Ernst Haeckel

Chapter I.—THE UNICELLULAR ORGANISM.

(§§ 1-50.)

Chapter II.—THE CENTRAL CAPSULE.

Chapter III.—THE EXTRACAPSULUM.

(§§ 81-100).

Chapter IV.—THE SKELETON.

(§§ 101-140).

BIOGENETICAL SECTION.

Chapter V.—ONTOGENY OR INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT.

(§§ 141-152.)

Chapter VI.—PHYLOGENY OR GENEALOGICAL DEVELOPMENT.

(§§ 153-200.)

PHYSIOLOGICAL SECTION.

Chapter VII.—VEGETATIVE FUNCTIONS.

(§§ 201-217.)

Chapter VIII.—ANIMAL FUNCTIONS.

(§§ 218-225.)

CHOROLOGICAL SECTION.

Chapter IX.—GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION.

(§§ 226-240.)

CHAPTER X.—GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION.

(§§ 241-250.)

Comparative View of the Species of Fossil Radiolaria from Barbados made known by the figures of Bury in 1862 and of Ehrenberg in 1875.

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL SECTION.

CHAPTER XI.—LITERATURE AND HISTORY.

SYSTEMATIC PART.

Class RADIOLARIA.

I. PERIPYLEA or SPUMELLARIA.

II. ACTIPYLEA or ACANTHARIA.

III. MONOPYLEA or NASSELLARIA.

IV. CANNOPYLEA or PHÆODARIA.

Synopsis of the four Subclasses or Legions of Radiolaria.

Legion I. SPUMELLARIA,

Synopsis of the Orders and Suborders of Spumellaria.

Order I. COLLODARIA, Haeckel, 1881.

Synopsis of the four Families of Collodaria.

Suborder I. COLLOIDEA, Haeckel.

Family I. Thalassicollida, Haeckel, 1862.

Synopsis of the Genera of Thalassicollida.

Genus 1. Actissa,[8] n. gen.

Subgenus 1. Procyttarium, Haeckel, 1879.

Subgenus 2. Actiprunum, Haeckel, 1882.

Subgenus 3. Actidiscus, Haeckel, 1882.

Subgenus 4. Actilarcus, Haeckel.

Genus 2. Thalassolampe,[9] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 253.

Genus 3. Thalassopila,[10] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 469.

Genus 4. Thalassicolla,[11] Huxley, 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 433.

Subgenus 1. Thalassicollarium, Haeckel.

Subgenus 2. Thalassicollidium, Haeckel.

Genus 5. Thalassophysa,[12] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 470.

Family II. Collozoida, Haeckel, 1862 (Pl. 3).

Genus 6. Collozoum,[13] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 522.

Subgenus 1. Collodinium, Haeckel.

Subgenus 2. Colloprunum, Haeckel.

Subgenus 3. Collophidium, Haeckel.

Subgenus 4. Collodiscus, Haeckel.

Subgenus 5. Collodastrum, Haeckel.

Suborder II. BELOIDEA, Haeckel.

Family III. Thalassosphærida, Haeckel, 1862, (Pl. 2).

Synopsis of the Genera of Thalassosphærida.

Genus 7. Thalassosphæra,[14] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 259.

Genus 8. Thalassoxanthium,[16] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 470.

Subgenus 1. Thalassoxanthella, Haeckel.

Subgenus 2. Thalassoxanthomma, Haeckel.

Genus 9. Physematium,[17] Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Curios., vol. xvi., Suppl., p. 286 (p. 162).

Genus 10. Thalassoplancta,[18] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 261.

Genus 11. Lampoxanthium,[20] n. gen.

Subgenus 1. Lampoxanthella, Haeckel.

Subgenus 2. Lampoxanthomma, Haeckel.

Subgenus 3. Lampoxanthura, Haeckel.

Family IV. Sphærozoida, Haeckel (Pl. 4).

Synopsis of the Genera of Sphærozoida.

Genus 12. Belonozoum,[22] n. gen.

Genus 13. Sphærozoum,[23] Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Curios., Bd. xvi., Suppl., p. 287 (p. 163).

Subgenus 1. Sphærozonactis, Haeckel.

Subgenus 2. Sphærozonoceras, Haeckel.

Subgenus 3. Sphærozonura, Haeckel.

Genus 14. Rhaphidozoum,[24] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 529.

Subgenus 1. Rhaphidonactis, Haeckel.

Genus 1. Actissa,^[8] n. gen.

Genus 2. Thalassolampe,^[9] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 253.

Genus 3. Thalassopila,^[10] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 469.

Genus 4. Thalassicolla,^[11] Huxley, 1851, Ann. and Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 2, vol. viii. p. 433.

Genus 5. Thalassophysa,^[12] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 470.

Genus 6. Collozoum,^[13] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 522.

Genus 7. Thalassosphæra,^[14] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 259.

Genus 8. Thalassoxanthium,^[16] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 470.

Genus 9. Physematium,^[17] Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Curios., vol. xvi., Suppl., p. 286 (p. 162).

Genus 10. Thalassoplancta,^[18] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 261.

Genus 11. Lampoxanthium,^[20] n. gen.

Genus 12. Belonozoum,^[22] n. gen.

Genus 13. Sphærozoum,^[23] Meyen, 1834, Nova Acta Acad. Nat. Curios., Bd. xvi., Suppl., p. 287 (p. 163).

Genus 14. Rhaphidozoum,^[24] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 529.

Subfamily Ethmosphærida,^[25] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 348 (sensu restricto).

Genus 15. Cenosphæra,^[26] Ehrenberg, 1854, Monatsber. d. k. preuss. Akad. d. Wiss. Berlin, p. 237.

Genus 16. Stigmosphæra,^[27] Haeckel, n. gen.

Genus 17. Ethmosphæra,^[28] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 349.

Genus 18. Sethosphæra,^[29] Hæckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452 (sensu emendato).

Subfamily Carposphærida,^[30] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 449.

Genus 20. Liosphæra,^[32] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 449.

Subfamily Thecosphærida,^[33] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 452.

Genus 21. Thecosphæra,^[34] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Genus 22. Rhodosphæra,^[35] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 452.

Subfamily Cromyosphærida,^[36] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 453.

Genus 23. Cromyosphæra,^[37] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 453.

Subfamily Caryosphærida,^[38] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, pp. 449, 454.

Genus 24. Caryosphæra,^[39] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 454.

Subfamily Plegmosphærida,^[40] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Genus 25. Styptosphæra,^[41] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Genus 26. Plegmosphæra, Haeckel,^[42] 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Genus 27. Spongoplegma,^[43] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 455.

Genus 28. Spongodictyon,^[44] Haeckel, 1862, Monogr. d. Radiol., p. 459.

Family VI. Collosphærida, J. Müller^[45] (Pls. 5-8).

Genus 29. Collosphæra,^[51] J. Müller, 1855.

Genus 30. Tribonosphæra,^[52] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 471.

Genus 31. Pharyngosphæra,^[53] n. gen.

Genus 32. Buccinosphæra,^[54] n. gen.

Genus 33. Acrosphæra,^[55] Haeckel, 1881, Prodromus, p. 471.

Genus 34. Odontosphæra,^[56] n. gen.

Genus 35. Chœnicosphæra,^[57] n. gen.

Genus 36. Siphonosphæra,^[58] J. Müller, 1858, Abhandl. d. k. Akad. d. Wiss.

Genus 37. Mazosphæra,^[59] Ehrenberg, 1860.

Genus 38. Trypanosphæra,^[60] n. gen.

I. Subfamily Staurostylida. (Shell one single lattice-sphere.)
	All four spines equal,
	All four spines equal,
			60. Staurosphæra.
			60. Staurosphæra.
	Four spines different in pairs,
	Four spines different in pairs,
			61. Staurostylus.
			61. Staurostylus.
	One spine larger than the three others,
	One spine larger than the three others,
			62. Stylostaurus.
			62. Stylostaurus.
II. Subfamily Staurolonchida. (Shell with two concentric lattice-spheres.)
	All four spines equal,
	All four spines equal,
		Simple,
		Simple,
			63. Staurolonche.
			63. Staurolonche.
		Branched,
		Branched,
			64. Staurancistra.
			64. Staurancistra.
	Four spines different in pairs,
	Four spines different in pairs,
			65. Staurolonchidium.
			65. Staurolonchidium.
	One spine larger than the three others,
	One spine larger than the three others,
			66. Stauroxiphos.
			66. Stauroxiphos.
III. Subfamily Stauracontida. (Shell with three concentric spheres.)
	All four spines equal, simple,
	All four spines equal, simple,
			67. Stauracontium.
			67. Stauracontium.
IV. Subfamily Staurocromyida. (Shell with four concentric spheres.)
	All four spines equal,
	All four spines equal,
		Simple,
		Simple,
			68. Staurocromyum.
			68. Staurocromyum.
		Branched,
		Branched,
			69. Cromyostaurus.
			69. Cromyostaurus.
V. Subfamily Staurocaryida. (Shell with five or more concentric spheres.)
	All four spines equal,
	All four spines equal,
			70. Staurocaryum.
			70. Staurocaryum.
VI. Subfamily Staurodorida. (Shell a spongy sphere.)
	Solid spongy sphere without medullary shell,
	Solid spongy sphere without medullary shell,
			71. Staurodoras.
			71. Staurodoras.

I. Subfamily Hexastylida. (Shell one simple latticed sphere.)	All six radial spines simple, of equal size,		72. Hexastylus.
	Six spines of different sizes, all six simple.	Two pairs equal, one pair different,	73. Hexastylarium.
		All three pairs different,	74. Hexastylidium.
II. Subfamily Hexalonchida. (Shell composed of two concentric latticed spheres.)	All six radial spines of equal size.	Spines simple,	75. Hexalonche.
		Spines branched,	76. Hexancistra.
	Six spines simple, in pairs of different sizes.	Two pairs equal, one pair different,	77. Hexaloncharium.
		All three pairs different,	78. Hexalonchidium.
III. Subfamily Hexacontida. (Shell composed of three spheres.)	All six radial spines of equal size.	Spines simple,	79. Hexacontium.
		Spines branched,	80. Hexadendron.
	Six spines simple, of different sizes.	Two pairs equal, one pair different,	81. Hexacontarium.
IV. Subfamily Hexacromyida. (Four concentric spheres.)	All six radial spines of equal size.	Spines simple, no branched,	82. Hexacromyum.
V. Subfamily Hexacaryida. (Five or more spheres.)	All six radial spines of equal size.	Spines simple,	83. Cubosphæra.
		Spines branched,	84. Hexacaryum.
VI. Subfamily Hexadorida. (Shell a spongy sphere, with or without an enclosed central medullary shell.)	All six radial spines of equal size, simple (not branched).	Without latticed medullary shell,	85. Cubaxonium.
		With one single medullary shell,	86. Hexadoras.
		With two medullary shells,	87. Hexadoridium.

I. Subfamily Hexastylida. (Shell one simple latticed sphere.)
	All six radial spines simple, of equal size,
	All six radial spines simple, of equal size,
			72. Hexastylus.
			72. Hexastylus.
	Six spines of different sizes, all six simple.
	Six spines of different sizes, all six simple.
		Two pairs equal, one pair different,
		Two pairs equal, one pair different,
			73. Hexastylarium.
			73. Hexastylarium.
		All three pairs different,
		All three pairs different,
			74. Hexastylidium.
			74. Hexastylidium.
II. Subfamily Hexalonchida. (Shell composed of two concentric latticed spheres.)
	All six radial spines of equal size.
	All six radial spines of equal size.
		Spines simple,
		Spines simple,
			75. Hexalonche.
			75. Hexalonche.
		Spines branched,
		Spines branched,
			76. Hexancistra.
			76. Hexancistra.
	Six spines simple, in pairs of different sizes.
	Six spines simple, in pairs of different sizes.
		Two pairs equal, one pair different,
		Two pairs equal, one pair different,
			77. Hexaloncharium.
			77. Hexaloncharium.
		All three pairs different,
		All three pairs different,
			78. Hexalonchidium.
			78. Hexalonchidium.
III. Subfamily Hexacontida. (Shell composed of three spheres.)
	All six radial spines of equal size.
	All six radial spines of equal size.
		Spines simple,
		Spines simple,
			79. Hexacontium.
			79. Hexacontium.
		Spines branched,
		Spines branched,
			80. Hexadendron.
			80. Hexadendron.
	Six spines simple, of different sizes.
	Six spines simple, of different sizes.
		Two pairs equal, one pair different,
		Two pairs equal, one pair different,
			81. Hexacontarium.
			81. Hexacontarium.
IV. Subfamily Hexacromyida. (Four concentric spheres.)
	All six radial spines of equal size.
	All six radial spines of equal size.
		Spines simple, no branched,
		Spines simple, no branched,
			82. Hexacromyum.
			82. Hexacromyum.
V. Subfamily Hexacaryida. (Five or more spheres.)
	All six radial spines of equal size.
	All six radial spines of equal size.
		Spines simple,
		Spines simple,
			83. Cubosphæra.
			83. Cubosphæra.
		Spines branched,
		Spines branched,
			84. Hexacaryum.
			84. Hexacaryum.
VI. Subfamily Hexadorida. (Shell a spongy sphere, with or without an enclosed central medullary shell.)
	All six radial spines of equal size, simple (not branched).
	All six radial spines of equal size, simple (not branched).
		Without latticed medullary shell,
		Without latticed medullary shell,
			85. Cubaxonium.
			85. Cubaxonium.
		With one single medullary shell,
		With one single medullary shell,
			86. Hexadoras.
			86. Hexadoras.
		With two medullary shells,
		With two medullary shells,
			87. Hexadoridium.
			87. Hexadoridium.

I. Subfamily Coscinommida. (One single latticed shell.)	Spines all simple, not branched and not tubulous.	All spines of the same kind,	088. Acanthosphæra.
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,	089. Heliosphæra.
	Spines hollow conical tubes with porous walls,		090. Conosphæra.
	Between simple spines the pores prolonged in hollow tubes,		091. Coscinomma.
	Spines branched or forked.	Spines with lateral branches,	092. Cladococcus.
		Spines forked or dichotomous,	093. Elaphococcus.
II. Subfamily Haliommida. (Two concentric latticed shells.)	A. Elatommida, one medullary and one cortical shell.	All spines equal, simple,	094. Haliomma.
		All spines simple, of two different kinds,	095. Heliosoma.
		Spines branched,	096. Elatomma.
	B. Diplosphærida, both shells cortical.	No by-spines,	097. Leptosphæra.
		Inner by-spines,	098. Diplosphæra.
		Outer by-spines,	099. Drymosphæra.
		Outer and inner by-spines,	100. Astrosphæra.
III. Subfamily Actinommida. (Three concentric latticed shells.)	Radial spines not branched.	All spines equal,	101. Actinomma.
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,	102. Echinomma.
	Radial spines branched or forked,		103. Pityomma.
IV. Subfamily Cromyommida. (Three concentric latticed shells.)	Radial spines not branched.	All spines equal,	104. Cromyomma.
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,	105. Cromyechinus.
	Radial spines branched or forked,		106. Cromyodrymus.
V. Subfamily Caryommida. (Numerous, five to ten or more, concentric latticed shells.)	Two medullary shells and three or more cortical shells (lattice work ordinary),		107. Caryomma.
	No medullary shells (lattice work arachnoidal); three-sided prismatic spines, with verticils of three forked branches. (Arachnosphærida.)	Triangular meshes, simple bars, without diagonal bars,	108. Arachnopila.
		Triangular meshes, simple bars; diagonal bars between the shells,	109. Arachnopegma.
		Polygonal meshes, bars branched,	110. Arachnosphæra.

I. Subfamily Coscinommida. (One single latticed shell.)
	Spines all simple, not branched and not tubulous.
	Spines all simple, not branched and not tubulous.
		All spines of the same kind,
		All spines of the same kind,
			88. Acanthosphæra.
			88. Acanthosphæra.
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,
			89. Heliosphæra.
			89. Heliosphæra.
	Spines hollow conical tubes with porous walls,
	Spines hollow conical tubes with porous walls,
			90. Conosphæra.
			90. Conosphæra.
	Between simple spines the pores prolonged in hollow tubes,
	Between simple spines the pores prolonged in hollow tubes,
			91. Coscinomma.
			91. Coscinomma.
	Spines branched or forked.
	Spines branched or forked.
		Spines with lateral branches,
		Spines with lateral branches,
			92. Cladococcus.
			92. Cladococcus.
		Spines forked or dichotomous,
		Spines forked or dichotomous,
			93. Elaphococcus.
			93. Elaphococcus.
II. Subfamily Haliommida. (Two concentric latticed shells.)
	A. Elatommida, one medullary and one cortical shell.
	A. Elatommida, one medullary and one cortical shell.
		All spines equal, simple,
		All spines equal, simple,
			94. Haliomma.
			94. Haliomma.
		All spines simple, of two different kinds,
		All spines simple, of two different kinds,
			95. Heliosoma.
			95. Heliosoma.
		Spines branched,
		Spines branched,
			96. Elatomma.
			96. Elatomma.
	B. Diplosphærida, both shells cortical.
	B. Diplosphærida, both shells cortical.
		No by-spines,
		No by-spines,
			97. Leptosphæra.
			97. Leptosphæra.
		Inner by-spines,
		Inner by-spines,
			98. Diplosphæra.
			98. Diplosphæra.
		Outer by-spines,
		Outer by-spines,
			99. Drymosphæra.
			99. Drymosphæra.
		Outer and inner by-spines,
		Outer and inner by-spines,
			100. Astrosphæra.
			100. Astrosphæra.
III. Subfamily Actinommida. (Three concentric latticed shells.)
	Radial spines not branched.
	Radial spines not branched.
		All spines equal,
		All spines equal,
			101. Actinomma.
			101. Actinomma.
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,
			102. Echinomma.
			102. Echinomma.
	Radial spines branched or forked,
	Radial spines branched or forked,
			103. Pityomma.
			103. Pityomma.
IV. Subfamily Cromyommida. (Three concentric latticed shells.)
	Radial spines not branched.
	Radial spines not branched.
		All spines equal,
		All spines equal,
			104. Cromyomma.
			104. Cromyomma.
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,
		Larger main spines and smaller by-spines,
			105. Cromyechinus.
			105. Cromyechinus.
	Radial spines branched or forked,
	Radial spines branched or forked,
			106. Cromyodrymus.
			106. Cromyodrymus.
V. Subfamily Caryommida. (Numerous, five to ten or more, concentric latticed shells.)
	Two medullary shells and three or more cortical shells (lattice work ordinary),

			107. Caryomma.
			107. Caryomma.
	No medullary shells (lattice work arachnoidal); three-sided prismatic spines, with verticils of three forked branches. (Arachnosphærida.)

		Triangular meshes, simple bars, without diagonal bars,
		Triangular meshes, simple bars, without diagonal bars,
			108. Arachnopila.
			108. Arachnopila.
		Triangular meshes, simple bars; diagonal bars between the shells,

			109. Arachnopegma.
			109. Arachnopegma.
		Polygonal meshes, bars branched,
		Polygonal meshes, bars branched,
			110. Arachnosphæra.
			110. Arachnosphæra.

VI. Subfamily Spongiommida. (Spherical shell whole or partly spongy, with or without enclosed latticed medullary shells in the centre.)	I. Tribe Spongodrymida, without latticed medullary shell.	Spongy sphere solid.	Spines simple,		111. Spongiomma.
			Spines branched,		112. Spongodrymus.
		Spongy sphere hollow.	Spines simple,		113. Spongechinus.
			Spines branched,		114. Spongothammus.
	II. Tribe Rhizoplegmida, with one single latticed medullary shell.	Medullary shell spherical.	Framework arising from the medullary shell,		115. Spongopila.
			Framework separate from the medullary shell.	No medullary by-spines,	116. Rhizoplegma.
				Medullary by-spines,	117. Lychnosphæra.
		Medullary shell a simple cube.	Framework arising immediately from the medullary shell,		118. Centrocubus.
			Framework separate from the medullary shell,		119. Octodendron.
	III. Tribe Rhizosphærida, with two concentric latticed medullary shells.		Framework arising from the medullary shell,		120. Spongosphæra.
			Framework separate from the medullary shell,		121. Rhizosphæra.

VI. Subfamily Spongiommida. (Spherical shell whole or partly spongy, with or without enclosed latticed medullary shells in the centre.)
	I. Tribe Spongodrymida, without latticed medullary shell.
	I. Tribe Spongodrymida, without latticed medullary shell.
		Spongy sphere solid.
		Spongy sphere solid.
			Spines simple,
			Spines simple,
					111. Spongiomma.
					111. Spongiomma.
			Spines branched,
			Spines branched,
					112. Spongodrymus.
					112. Spongodrymus.
		Spongy sphere hollow.
		Spongy sphere hollow.
			Spines simple,
			Spines simple,
					113. Spongechinus.
					113. Spongechinus.
			Spines branched,
			Spines branched,
					114. Spongothammus.
					114. Spongothammus.
		Medullary shell spherical.
		Medullary shell spherical.
			Framework arising from the medullary shell,
			Framework arising from the medullary shell,
					115. Spongopila.
					115. Spongopila.
	II. Tribe Rhizoplegmida, with one single latticed medullary shell.

			Framework separate from the medullary shell.
			Framework separate from the medullary shell.
				No medullary by-spines,
				No medullary by-spines,
					116. Rhizoplegma.
					116. Rhizoplegma.
				Medullary by-spines,
				Medullary by-spines,
					117. Lychnosphæra.
					117. Lychnosphæra.
		Medullary shell a simple cube.
		Medullary shell a simple cube.
			Framework arising immediately from the medullary shell,
			Framework arising immediately from the medullary shell,
					118. Centrocubus.
					118. Centrocubus.
			Framework separate from the medullary shell,
			Framework separate from the medullary shell,
					119. Octodendron.
					119. Octodendron.
	III. Tribe Rhizosphærida, with two concentric latticed medullary shells.

			Framework arising from the medullary shell,
			Framework arising from the medullary shell,
					120. Spongosphæra.
					120. Spongosphæra.
			Framework separate from the medullary shell,
			Framework separate from the medullary shell,
					121. Rhizosphæra.
					121. Rhizosphæra.

A. MONOPRUNIDA. Shell without transverse stricture	a. Shell simple, latticed (not spongy), without enclosed internal shells,	1. Ellipsida.
	b. Shell composed of two or more concentric latticed shells (not spongy),	2. Druppulida.
	c. Shell partially or wholly composed of an irregular spongy framework,	3. Spongurida.
B. DYOPRUNIDA. Shell bilocular, divided by an equatorial stricture into two communicating hemi-ellipsoidal shells.	d. Shell simple, without enclosed internal shells,	4. Artiscida.
	e. Shell composed of two or more concentric shells,	5. Cyphinida.
C. POLYPRUNIDA. Shell multilocular, divided by three or more parallel transverse strictures into four or more serial cameræ.	f. Shell with three parallel strictures and therefore four cameræ,	6. Panartida.
	g. Shell with five or more parallel strictures and therefore six or more cameræ,	7. Zygartida.

A. MONOPRUNIDA. Shell without transverse stricture
	a. Shell simple, latticed (not spongy), without enclosed internal shells,

		1. Ellipsida.
		1. Ellipsida.
	b. Shell composed of two or more concentric latticed shells (not spongy),

		2. Druppulida.
		2. Druppulida.
	c. Shell partially or wholly composed of an irregular spongy framework,

		3. Spongurida.
		3. Spongurida.
B. DYOPRUNIDA. Shell bilocular, divided by an equatorial stricture into two communicating hemi-ellipsoidal shells.
	d. Shell simple, without enclosed internal shells,
	d. Shell simple, without enclosed internal shells,
		4. Artiscida.
		4. Artiscida.
	e. Shell composed of two or more concentric shells,
	e. Shell composed of two or more concentric shells,
		5. Cyphinida.
		5. Cyphinida.
C. POLYPRUNIDA. Shell multilocular, divided by three or more parallel transverse strictures into four or more serial cameræ.
	f. Shell with three parallel strictures and therefore four cameræ,

		6. Panartida.
		6. Panartida.
	g. Shell with five or more parallel strictures and therefore six or more cameræ,

		7. Zygartida.
		7. Zygartida.

Ellipsoidal shell without polar appendages (neither solid spines nor hollow tubes at the poles of the axis).	Surface without radial spines.	Shell cavity simple, without an axial rod,	122. Cenellipsis.
		Shell cavity with a transverse axial rod,	123. Axellipsis.
	Surface covered with radial spines,		124. Ellipsidium.
Ellipsoidal shell with polar appendages (either solid spines or hollow fenestrated tubes) at the poles of the main axis.	Solid spines of similar shape, at both poles of the main axis.	Shell cavity simple, without axial rods,	125. Ellipsoxiphus.
		Shell cavity with a cross of axial rods,	126. Axoprunum.
	Solid spines of different shape, at both poles of the main axis.	Two polar spines of different shape,	127. Ellipsostylus.
		A bunch of spines at one pole only,	128. Lithomespilus
		Only a single spine at one one pole,	129. Lithapium.
	Two hollow fenestrated tubes opposite, at the poles of the main axis,		130. Pipettella.