Page:Coloured Figures of English Fungi or Mushrooms.djvu/606

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TAB. CCLXXIII.

SPHÆRIA aciniformis.

I found this curious compound Sphaeria first on stones near the Lizard Point, in Cornwall, afterwards in the Valley of Stones near Linmouth, in the same county, in June 1799. The little sphærulæ of the coat seem perfect, as well as the inner one compounded of them.


TAB. CCLXXIV.

SPHÆERIA spiculifera.

This extraordinary production was found investing the stalks and blades of a large green tuft of grass in Battersea meadows, early last autumn. When fresh gathered, the little spiculae are continually protruding themselves with a sort of spontaneous motion, looking in the sunshine like so many sparks of fire. Future inquiries must determine whether it be a proper Sphæria or not.


TAB. CCLXXV.

SPHÆRIA nitida. Dicks. With. ed. 3. 393.

The smooth substance in which the little sphaerulæ are imbedded will most readily distinguish this species. It is seldom cracked or rugged, but in consequence of very dry weather.