Victorian Naturalist
THE JOURNAL AND MAGAZINE:

of the

FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA

VOL. LIII

MAY, 1936, TO APRIL, 1937

Hon. Editor: CHARLES BARRETT, C.M.Z.5.

*

The Author of each Article is responsible for
the facts and opinions recorded

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VICTORIAN FERNS

No Fern-lover can afford to be without a copy of this little
book, for in it are contained descriptions and illustrations of
evéety Fetn ktown to exist naturally in our State, and also where
to find them, how to identify them, and haw to grow them. It
has been published by the Club without expectation of other than
a monetary loss, and solely for the benefit of all Nature-lovers.

Copies can be obtained from the Hon. Librarian, Field
Naturalists’ Club of Victoria, Royal Society’s Hall, Victoria
Street, Price, 1/-; posted, 1d. extra.

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The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LIIE—No. 1 May 7, 1936 No. 629

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA

The ordinary meeting of the Club was held at the Royal Society’s
Hall on Monday, April 20, 1936. The President, Mr, G. N. Hyatn,
presided, and about 100 members and friends attended,

The President reierred ta the deaths of Miss Doris Schulz, My,
). Howie, Country Members of the Club, and of Mr. W. Lawtord,
a Life Member.

SUBJECT FOR EVENING

The President, in introducing the lecturer for the evening, Mr,
M, Blackburn, spoke of the good work done by the McCoy Society.
Mr, Blackburn deale with the work and experiences of ihe Society's
expedition om Lady Julia Percy Island. A very interestitig series
of lantern slides was show,

At the end of the lecture Mr. F. Singleton and Mr. L. Stach,
who were both members ot the expedition, spoke briefly.

After answering several qtiestions, the lecturer was thanked by
the President, and also the thanks of the Club were expressed to
the McCoy Society for its work.

WILD NATURE SHOW

The President stated that the Club had decided to hold a two-day
Wild Nature Show this year,

CORRESPONDENCE
From Rey. N, Michael, of Boenah, South Queensland, asking
for correspondence [roi tenibers interested in the exchange of
hotanical specimens, especially Eucalypts and Acacias,

REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS

Excursions were reported on as follows; Heatlicote, excursion
cancelled; Beechworth, Mr. W. Ingrait; Yarta River, Mr. W.
Hanks.

‘ ELECTION OF MEMBERS

Oi a show of hands the following were duly elected as (a)
Associate Member; Master A. Colliver; (b) Ordinary Members:
Miss A. Cornish. Miss Joyce Outtrim, Miss TD. Sachse, Miss M.
Sachse. hal

Field Naturalists’ Cli Proceedings, vie. aut

ig

GENERAL BUSINESS

The President extended a very hearty welcome to Miss Garling,
a visitor fram the Sydney Naturalists’ Club; and alea to a Country
Member of our Club, Mr. Hackett,

It was announced that the next meeting would be held in the
New Herbariutu Hall, and the subject he “‘National Monuments,”
This would inaugurate a campaign for the presetyation of Natural
and Historic Moruments, and the checking of vandalism.

The Committee invited members to submit to the Secretary as
soon as possible suggestions for excursions far the forthcoming list,

NATURE NOTES
Mrs. Miller read a cutting from the Press, stating that elim tree
leaves were being collected for export ta Germany, and asked for
information regarding their use, ;
The. meeting closed, and members adjourned jor the Conver-

sazione.
EXHIBITS

Mrs, V. H, Miller—Pendant of Citrine Crystal; one of the
semi-precious varieties of Quartz, fram Spring Creek, Beechworth

Mr. W. H. Nicholls—Small Copperhead Snake, from Solomon's
Ford, Manbyrnong River, Braybrook,

Mr. A. R. Varley —Coallection of Shells and Coral fram Great
Barrier Reet.

Mr, N. Lothian —Flowers and Fruits of Macadenia fernifola,
a native of Queensland.

Mr. G. N, Hyam—Aboriginal stone chippings, from Studley
Park,

Mr. A, J. Swaby—Lumiinous Crab, irom Port Philhp Bay.

Mr, F. S. Colliver.—A series of minerals from Beechworth,
including Citrine, Rock Crystal. Jasper, Agate, Black Tran Sand.
etc.; also a series of Granite from the district

EXCURSION UPON RIVER YARRA

Twenty-eigit members and friends attended the fiver excursion. which
started fram the location of the falls that formerly existed near Quest's
Bridge. The leader described the Yarra as nearly as possible as it wae
before being attered to its present state, Some description of the geology
was attempted, and a short walk taken through Studley Park, The weather
was wel, but the boat was covered in,

W. HANKS.

The Rev. Norman Michael, The Rectoty. Boorah, South Queenslaid, has
heen collecting botanical specimens, particularly Eucalypts and Acacias, far
30 years, Now that, after many wanderings, he has settled down, ‘he is
anxious to form an herbarium and museum of his own. He would yalne 4
Victorian series of his favourite plants, dried specimens for the herbarium.
and would like to hear from any member of our Club willing to exchange
specimens, i

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST
Plate 1

Vor.

LA

Mav, 19396

splaying

45

Male Lyre-bird

M : ;
ater: Lrrr.ejouns, Some Notes on the Lyre-bird,

SOME NOTES ON THE LYRE-BIRD—PRINCIPALLY
THE MALE
By R. T. LittLeyouns

During ten winters devoted to the Lyre-birds of Sherbrooke
Forest [, unfortunately, perhaps, have sought photugraphic records
with such fervour that many upportunities for observation have
been neglected, Nevertheless, in that period I have gathered at
least a few facts which may not be recorded in the general and
rather extensive literature regarding this remarkable bird. Inci-
dentally, it has been found necessary to modify several hastily-
conceived ideas formed during the earlier years of association with
the species.

Influenced, probably, by something which [ had read, I at first
considered the male Lyre-bird to be a creature of warlike tempera-
ment, The penetrating “quilp quilp” call T regarded as a definite
challenge to other males of the species, and when, on various occa-
sions, I saw one male chasing another through the forest, 1 became
convinced that it was proof of a widespread rivalry for mates, Later
experience has changed my ideas entirely. 1 am now firmly of the
opinion that the relationship between male Lyre-birds is almost
invariably friendly, and even playful, The chasing which, in other
times, 1 reyarded as evidence of a quarrel, 1 am now convinced is
play, Furthermore, there is little doubt left in my mind that the
birds mate for life; so that, except in rare instances, rivalry for
mates does not occur, The only definite evidence I have for believ-
ing that the Lyre-hircds mate for life is the fact that the male
occupant of one definite “territary” at Sherbrooke has been associ-
ated, during two sucessive seasons, with a female which carries
a ring on her leg.

The question of territory deserves mention. There is no other
Australian bird known to me in which adherence to a definite area
is sa strongly evident as im the case of the male Lyre-bird. Day
after day and week after week, especially in the singing season,
one may know exactly where to find any particular individual. The
territory of each male may be two or three acres in extent, and it
is seldom that the bird will be found outside it. From time to time,
however, he may leave his own area and visit that of his neighbour.
In most cases, when this occurs, a playful chase develops, and it
may be that other territories are visited also, the occupants of
which join in the chase. I have seen as many as five male birds
gathered together in such circumstances, They may dance on
mounds or elsewhere. Sometimes two or three display at once,
I haye not, however at any time, seen two birds dancing together
on one mound, but frequently one dancer is replaced by another
as soon as the first has completed his “turn.” These corroborees
seldom last very long and within half an hour each male may be
found once more in his own territory.

| Littiejouns, Sone Notes on the Lyre-bird, sn _—

Apart from the regularity of the habits of the males, as regards
territory, there is a further characteristic which has been most
helpful in connection with attempts to film the Lyre-bird and to
record and broadcast the song. Although the bird may sing in any
portion of his territory or on any of his many mounds, there is
always one favourite singing area from whtch he gives his most
tervent and sustained songs. This favourite singing area may

Phote, R. T. Littlejohne.
Male Lyre-bird preparing mound

contain two or three closely-grouped mounds and perhaps one or
more logs, stumps or elevated horizontal branches. As the singing
positions in this favourite arca are almost always grouped within
a radius of thirty or forty feet, it will be realized that the broad-
casting of the song, whilst it invol¢es considerable preliminary
investigation, is yet a matter of less difficulty than would be
imagined,

During the moulting season, in September and October, and
thereafter until the following April, the adherence to the territory,
while still in evidence, is not so marked and oft-times the bird
may not be found in its accustomed place. At dusk, also, the males
leave their terirtories to roost, often in company, in tall trees. The

Muy
RAG

Liteejosas, Some Noloe on the Tyre-biril, §
females, outside the nesting season, are not so easily followed as
the males because of the lack of song, but it would appear that
they do not adhere to the territuries of their mates or, in fact, to
any territary,

There are several outstanding characteristics of male Lyre-tirds
in the manner of making and usiig their mounds and these have
become Ietruwit tu Hre writer because they have affected materially
the attempts which have been made to film the display. In the
first place it has become evident that, whilst mounds may be
formed, occasionally, where there is noe screen of undergrowth
close to. the grouid, it is almost invariably the practice io.choose
@ position surrounded by growing ferns, sword grass or other
lowly growih, This fact has been of considerable importance with
regard to photography at Sherbeooke, as bracken, which is the mast
usnal screen for the mounds, praws only in fairly well-ht areas,
Last year this characteristic was responsible, almost entirely, for
the success of a film taken under excellent lighting conditions.

Apparently because of an increase in the Lyvre-bird population
ef the Forest, one male bird during the winter of 1934 took pos-
session of a territory along the forest edge adjoining a cleared
fire-break. The narrow strip of forest occupied by this hired pros
vided a suitable feeding-graund of soft mould, but, with the excep-
tion of ane small patch of sword grass, there was vo place where,
moutuds could be formed with the usual screen of Jow growth, This
bird, therefore, made several inounds amongst the bracken grow-
ing in the fire-breal itself where the light available was probably
twenty times more efficient than thatin any part of the forest proper.

In June, 1955, a record was made of the number of times the
occupant of this territory displayed on a particular mound in his
uiost popular singing area. The mound chosen was an old and
well-formed one which had been im use also durmy the previous
singing season. During eight days, which, however, were no all
good Finging days, the hicd displayed on this mound ten times or
on an average of alittle more than once a day, A month falter he
commenced {9 fornl a new mound twelve feet from the old one,
fram which he had been disturbed on many occasions, From the
time he commenced the new around his activities inercased greatly,
and during a further etght days he danced on the new mound
twenty-one times. He returned time after time with evident anxicty
to make the display place to his liking in as short a time as possible.
Much of the time was spent in scratching up the earth. removing
the grass and exteuding the aréa by treading down and removing
bracken at the edges. So intenc was he on tus task that many feet
of film were exposed whilst the writer sat, camera in hand, just
outside the ring of bracken and within ten feet of the bird, Time
aJter time the motor of the camera was wound and the camera
operated without any effort to muffle the sound

6 Lirtinsouns, Same Nates on tha Lyve-bird, Wei cont

It must not be assumed, however, that the Lyre-bird, even at
Sherbrooke, ig not al) extreniely wary arid suspicious creature
nonnally. Proot af wariness 1s provided hy an experience during
the endeavour to obtain film in 1935, For many days the small
cinema camera, wilh line attached to operate the motor, remained
fastened to the ground and camouflaged with debris fifteen [cet
from what had heen a very popular aiound. And although the sur-
roundings had not been interfered with to any other way the bird
would sat dance on that mound. Time after time he passed aver
it, raker| the earth once or twice, but walked off to display else-
where- Eventually it became apparent that the small shining lens,
Jess than an inch in chameter, fifteen feet away ane recessed far
into a padded box, was responsible for his refusal to usé lis most
usual display place. The apparatus was then modified so that the
lens remained covered until the camera was actually set in motion
ly means of the line, In this way it was possible to have the caniera
completely hidden during the critical period when the bird walked
on to tis mound and to uncaver the lens later when he was en-
grossed in his performance, and when, probably, his vision was
obseyred by the widespread filmy feathers of (he tail.

This characteristic of the Lyre-bird should he remembered by
those who seek to witness the display and an effort to approach the
singer should not be made unui! the display has reached a stage
where the performer is oblivious to all e’se. These conclusions, of
course, are based on the conduct of the Sherbrooke birds, but T
have nv doubt that the same characteristics, perhaps in modified
forin, will be faund in birds of other areas.

During preparations for several broadeasts and recordings, many
observations have been necessary as to the factors which influence
the stnging, From a mazt of apparently contradictory restilts it
has been possible ¢o cull a few definite conclusions, Firstly, it has
become apparent that the season of greatest activity is from the
middle af Fume to the middle of July, and that miost mdividuals
have shed their tails and have become silent hy the end of Sep-
tember.

The weather, also, has been found to have had considerable
influence on the efficiency of the singing On windy days, even in
the height of the season, the Forest will be praccically silent except
jor the roar of the wind in the tall trees, Such singing ag does
eccur an Wwitdy days, furthertuore, is delivered principally from
elevuted perches and not from niounds, Obviously, E think, the
birds jear (hat, under cover of lhe roar of the wind, enemies may
steal upon them unawares should they display on screened mounds.
On calm June or July days, especially if (here be a light fog, sing-
ing is almost continuous, and opportunities for witnessing the
tligsplay are nunierots.

Dunng those portions of the year when smging ig not so constant
as i June and July most performances have occurred, according

'SNHOSHILLI']

MOE

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ee

Phero. by R. T. Litthefohns
Male Lyre-hird displaying on mound in Bracken outside the forest proper.

8 LItTLEJOHNS, Some Notes on the Lyre-bird. vol, Ent

to my notes, about two hours after daylight and again about half-
past three o'clock in the afterneon.

Of the song itself so much has been written that there 1s probably
little that is new to be added. There has always been a difference
of opinion as to the number of imitated sounds included in the
repertoire of a singer of average ability. Probably the number of
imitations varies with the locality. Acting on the principle that
only those sounds which may be included without doubt as imita-
tions should be recognized, I have estimated that the number of
inutated sounds used by the Sherbrooke birds is about twenty.

Photo, R. T. Lithejohna.
Male Lyre-bird displaying (rear view)

From the high-pitched musical whistle of the pilot bird to the
sound of rustling feathers and from the harsh laughing of kooka-
hurras to the faint twittering of thornbills there is no sound,
apparently, which is beyond the power of the bird to reproduce.
For many months | imagined that the sound of rustling feathers
such as accompanies the commencement of a flight of parrots, was
produced by a shaking of the plumage of the mimic. I did not
dream that such an elusive sound could be produced in the throat
and I] was astounded when first I witnessed the production of the
sound,

May
TOG,

Wrisor, Notes frat Pink Lakes District, 9

Then there is the micauny ability of the manic to produce a clear
representation of the chatter of a whole flock of parrots or the
simultaneous laughing of a chorus of kookaburras, The full kooka-
burra chorus, rendered so seldom that J have heard it less than a -
dozen times, is an achievement which must place the Lyre-bird
amongst the world’s most efficient natural artists.

ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES FROM THE PINK LAKES
DISTRICT, NORTH-WESTERN VICTORIA, WITH A
NOTE ON A NEW VICTORIAN RECORD

By F, Erasanis Wiison

Our Editor recently handed me a Viger Heetle collected at Lake
Crosby, when that locality was visited by a party of Duteli
scientists early in April, I understand that about a dozen spect
mens were collected by Dr. J. Reuter, whe was probably more
active in his movements than the Editor, as capturing Tiger
Beetles is no mean achievement.

This specimen is particularly interesting as it proved ta he
Ciindela jangi Blackb., a species so far quite rare in collections,
and previously recorded only from two localities in South Aus
tralia. The type examples were taken by a Mr, Jung, on York
Peninsula, South Australia, and sent by him to Canon Blackhurn.
who described then in the Proceedings of the Rowil Sacicty af
Sauth Australia. No more seem ta have been reported until Mr-
A.H. Elstan collected a few specimens on the Coorong soine few
years ago, the previous example in my collection having been one
of that capture,

The beetle now first recorded trom Victoria is of about the
hhuild of the widely-distributed C_ ypsifon Dej., a beach-frequenting

+ form. Tts head avd prothorax are brilliantly metallic und rugosely
sculptored. and the elytra are cream coloured as in my example
from the Coorong, or slightly darker as in the Victorian specimen.
The elyira are ornamented with an irregular marking commencing
at the base and continuing along the suture for about two-thirels

of its leneth. The mandibles are yellowish, tipped with black, and
fhe legs are cither brilliant coppery or bright metallic green,
accordmg to Blackburn, who evidently had a series before him
when writing his description. In the Victorian specimen ihe
metallic parts are cappery.

The Fditor and I visited this lake district in October, 1922, and
although we saw many examples of the Tiger Beetle Megacephata
australis Chatd, no examples of a Cicindela were observed. Pos-
sibly they do not emerge so early in the summer, the lakes at that
‘time still containing quite a lut of water, The Megacephala we

iW Wieson, Notes from Pink Lakes District. Sal Att

found sumetines under planks or logs of wood firmly embedded
in crystallized sali, when they would be seen resting in the chan-
nels which they excavate. Once disturbed, however, they were
exctedingly active, and catching them was not always an easy
Taatter, even with the assistance of a net. One evermmg quite a
number came to 4 light which we were using same two miles fromm
the lake for the purpose of attracting night-flying insects. They
would thud down in the sheet and then statt rishing nadly about,

Ttis a curious fact that so many of our Tiger Lectles are associ-
ated with salt. Most of the Jarge brackish lakes and salt pans of
the interior have their Tiger Beetle fauna, Western Australia
particularly having a wonderful variety of beautiful forms. Our
other Viclorian Tiger Beetle, Geitdela ypsdor, as beiore men-
tioned, ig.a sea beach dweller, found so far only along the Ninety
Mile Beach in this State.

Dishpsidere, an arlyoreal gens, seems to shun salty situations,
emg a denizen of the forests m Norther) Australia, and the
interesting little Western Australian genus Nickerled, one of the
rarest of Tiger Beetles, is, I believe, found on the sand plains.

Some years ago I remember visiting a small lake in the centre
of the Little Desert, south of Kiata, and although this lakelet se a
very isolated one, yet here also J found Megacephala anstrats. It
at just possible that other Ci¢indellide may turn up in our horth-
west. sall lake system, although, I think, improbable. A new
Zealand coleopterist some years ago showed me # small Cretaelo
that he had taken on grass lands some twenty miles across the
Murray River from Mildura, and this species may yet turn up
in the north-west corner-oi this State. Til) thet, we shall bave to
he satishedl with claiming a Tiger Heetle fauna of only three
species, oul of some fifly to sixty species known to occur in
Australia,

On the shores of the Jake where the new Tiger Beetles were
taken there grew in 1922 a small patch of sandalwood trees which
T expect ate jot there now, From the truok of one of these T cnt"
out a dead, though almost perfect example of the very rare and
tlistinctively sculptured Melobasts abnormis Cart., a jewel beetle,
of which, T believe, only about rhree specimens have so far heéi
taken. Also. in a crevice in a tree tranle I found alsaut seven
exaniples of the large searub heetle. (rigadema longipenne Germ.,
a genus that was also represented by the still larger spectes,
G. bolstockt var, intermedtem Gestra.

The surrounding sand-hills were the halutal of the fine scarabyd
gins, halbaceray and cheylun: Bikb,, Staates Blkb, and ravicelle
Macl., were species that were captured, We used to die these out
af the sand, being Jed to their burrows by the vertniculate damp
sand Jumps, which were piled up in the early morning. When the
sun came out and evaporated the moisture, nothing remained to
indicate their lurking places.

.

M + \ rene
WR. Wirson, Nates from Pink Lakes Distyics, Ik

The Needle Bushes (Habea sp.) growing avound the lakes not
only provided us with water frum their root systems, but also
yielded several specimens of the Longicorn beerle, Syliitus parryi
Pasc,, and the porctipine grass russocks were lurking grounds of
ihe fine large Amycterid weevil, Pfalidure flavesetosa Ferg., as
well as that of the beautiful Striated Grass-\Wreh, 4inqlorwiy
strats,

Two nice little Scarahid beetles that we took on mallee eucalypts
were Lrparctrus phemcopterns Gttm., a dempy litle chap with
deep ved clyfra and hirsute thorax, and L. abnarmatis Macl, 2
rare species that I have not since taleen.

Que evening we noticed a long procession of small flack
Tridomermys ants and interspersed all along the Ine of travel
were examples of the Trogid Beetle, Lipurochras genvinatus
Westw, Beetles of the renus Léparechrus are not looked tipon as
myrmecophilus, so that what they were doing there is problemat-
cal. They seemed to be just walking along in the procession,
neither worrying the ants or-being worried by then, Fully tweaty
of them were picked up m the space of a few yards.

We also found near the lakes two species of the handsome
Tenebrionid, genus chalcapterns, viz, chypealis Blackh., which also
octurs in Western Justralia, and Affinis Bless.. which we sonie-
times get in the vicinity of Melbourne. The same family also
vielded Helacus scaphiformis Black., one of the quaint forms
fometimes referred to as Tortoise Beetles,

Three or four examples of Aphedins caliabonneusis Blackh., a
small scarab thac was described from Lake Callabonna, in South
Australia, were collected, This insect was redescribed later under
another name by a local coleopterist, but I am sure of my deter-
mination as 7 was able to compare my specimens with the type
material in the South Australian Museunr.

Antlion pits wert seen in almost every sheltered situation,
and although we saw io adults at the time, they muse be very
plentiful there in nvid-summmer. Quite a number of nice colecpuerd
were callected in this district, and we might have got niore hut for
the fact that much of owr ume was taken up in finding ofathologi-
cal subjecte for the Editor's camera,

REECHWORTH EASTER EXCURSION

Ten members and friends attended the Easter excursion at Beechworth,
and were favoured with perfect weather. A wew from the top of Mn
Stantey on the Saturday, embracing the Hume Reseryoi, Mr, Kosciusko,
Featherton, Bogang, Buffalo, etc, right around to the Divide, on the south,
showed all to be snow-covered, We evett had a elinpse af the High Plaius,
in a similar condition, The trees of the district sgain called for admuira-
tion, and some fruits of the Arbutus give evidence of the genial climate.
Mrs. V. BH. Miller noted about (0 different species of birds. The members
Breatly enjoyed an all-day excursion to the Woolshed valley.

WH, INGRAM,

2 Lewss, Suture af the Lyresbird an icloriv. er a

THE FUTURE OF THE LYRE-BIRD IN VICTORIA
By PF. Lewis (Chief Juspector of Frsieries and Game)

What will be the position of Mennra in this. State in years ta
come? This question is exercising the minds of many people, as
is evidenced, ior instance, by the strongly-expressed opposition, itt
sone quarters, to the transfer of several of our Lyre-birds to Tas-
mania during the last two winlers. The people concerned were, I
think, genuinely opposed to the experiment because they feared
the depletion of cur very lintited snacks; but, being unduly appre-
hensive, they overlooked the outstanding advantage of having a
reserve stock of Lyre-hirds in another State should anything
eventuate senously to reduce their numbers on the mainland,

The Lyre-bird is found, in Victoria, only in the mountain gullies
aud dense forest of the north-castern and eastern parts. Although
the densely-timbered fern gullies of the Otway forest should be
entirely suitable, they have never been found there. It is possible
that, were they mtroduced to such a place as Turton’s Pass, they
would thrive and provide another safeguard against extermination
should their present habitat be seriously threatened.

What now are the factors which a superficial mvestigation mdi-
cates as favouring the Lyre-hird in this State? To me they appear
as —

(L) The fact that a great deal of their territory is rough, inae-
cessible, mountainous country, ohach of avhich is proclaimed
forest country, mttch almost worthless except perhaps as
a water catcliunent.

(2) The more favourable public opmion formed in recent years
as the result of the magnificent work of such men as T.
Tregellas and R. T, Littlejohns; by the broadcasting of
the song; and by the articles of nature writers mm our great
newspapers.

(3) The more adequate protection given by the law in recent
years, ’

As vegards (1) it must not be taken for granted that in these
isolated mountain areas the birds are necessarily safe for all time.
I have known densely-tumbered gullies, ance the hame of Lyre-
birds, Coschwhip Birds and other species that thrive in these
~ focalities, ta be burnt and.cleared| for cultivation. It seems a shame
that this should be done, because, im most cases, the result hardly
justifies the labour and expense involved. Typical examples of this
are to be seen close to the Prince’s Highway, between Jakes
Entrance and Lake Tyers; also at South Traralgon and Jeeralang.
and many places in South Gippsland.

Many of the present resorts of ihe Lyre-bird are privately awned,
and one cannot object Jegally to what a landowner does with his
vwn property, But here, certainly, is a field for education,

Again, while many of the fern gullies beloved by AJenura, in the

att. F Lewis, Future af the alyve-bird di Wictary. i}

forest areas, are safe from fire in a normal season because of thetr
dampness, a prolonged dry spell will greatly increase the fire: risk,
and fre seems to tue the most seriqus menace which, oy native
fauna has to face in these days,

Re (2). It is my belief that the more favourable cpition formed
in recent years is confined almost entirely to the people living in
and around Melbowrne, and is mainly due to. the fact that Sher-
brooke Forest is so close to and easily accessible irom the metropolis.
People in country districts, even where the birds are still plentiful,
show little or no interest in than, This attitude, I think, can only
be remedied by the education of the young through the schools.
Let us educate our teachers and the result will soon be seen among
the children.

Of course, there are exceptions to this state of affairs, one of
which T came across list winter at a little country school in South
Gippstand, where the teacher and children, and ever some of the
parents, were greatly interested in a young Lyre-bird in at nearly
gully Practically all the forest and gullies in the vicinity have heen
lurnt and cleared in recent years, thus reducing the area available
nor only ro the Lyrebird, but also to the Koala, Now only this
one sinall piece of forest gully remains, and in ita pair of Lyre-hirds
nest every year, nuach to the interest of same uf the local people.
Although this district at ame time aust have passessed thottsands
of Koalas and Cyre-birds, none of the children at the school had
ever seen a Koala nor the dancing display of the male Menwra.
When I showed them pictures of both, they were keenly interested.

Tlie egg collector, of course, is a ruthless destroyer of the Lyre-
bird. These eggs are keetly sought after; ouly one is laid m 2
season by cach female bird, and if'that is taken, there is no natural
increase From the pair of birds concerned, for that year, Exarmina-
tio) of the records of sonw. of those trom whose collections eggs
were seized lasely by the Fishenes and Ganie Department. indicated
clearly how ruthless collectors can be in the pursuit of their hobby.
Qyie anan recorded how te and other collectors visited the Heales-
ville district and took eleven Lyre-hird eggs, Since these raids on
collectors were mude, I can readily understand where the eggs
from Lyre-bird nests in the Dandenongs, which L have examined
ii recent years) disappeared, Now chat most of the ege eollectors
are known, steps will be taken to check their nefarious practices
in the future, much to the advantage, 7 irust, of the Lyre-bird.

Summarized, the position appears to ine to be that the future of
the liyre-bird im Victona is assured, contingent, however, upon
two things: first, the improvement of public opinion by education,
not orily in Melboutne and in large cities, but more particularly in
the country districts; and, secondly, hy stopping the clearing of
Lyre-bird gullies and the destruction resulting from bash fires and
tive activities of egg collectors.

i Crasuotm, Lyre-birds of Pheee States. ya ae

LYRE-BIRDS OF THREE STATES
By Avec H, Curswoba, 2 ®.2.8,

When I first went to Queensland to live. some twenty years
ago, my experience of Lyre-birds was limited to the hearing of
one of two in Gippsland forests. in following vears J frequently
heard the birds in rhe muuntain jungi¢s south-east of Brishane,
ut to see one was a rare event und the finding of a nest was rarer
suill. How quickly those birds could disappear in the jungle,
warned perhaps by the cracking of a stick beneath a foot or the
thumping of a wallaby's tail!

I remember in particular an occasion when members of the
Queensland Field Naturahsts’ Club were camped ou the Green
Mountuins that comprise the Macpherson Range. Every morning
we heard the Lyre-birds shouting around us, but not once were
we alle to see the melodists. It was odd that the birds. were so
shy in that primeval region, where they had rarely been disturbed
ly man, Possibly that shyness will wear off in time, for the area
is a National Park and visitors (who do not carry guns) are
becoming more and more numerous. The birds in question
probably were of the smaller spectes of Menara, the one which
Gould called M. alberti, Prince Albert's Lyre-bird. In this species
the tail differs considerably from that of the southern Lyre-hird,
and so G, M. Mathews split the genus and gave Menura albert
the uncouth name of Harriwtea. Not content with that. he
“split” avain, calling the “Albert” in north-eastern New South
Wales Harriwhitea alierti albert’ and the one in south-eastern
Queensland HY. albert; rufa. Tk was this fine distinetion that
¢capsed Mr, Henry Tryon, then Queensland's veteran Government
Entomologist. to produce a goad jest as we stood on Mount
Bithongabel, fairly on the harder of the two States.

“You hear that bird, sir?” he said, waving an arm fowards a
L.yre-bird that was singing a hundred yards or so to the south,
“Well, that is Harviahitea alberli albsrti, And you hear that
bird ?”—pointing to where a bird was singing on the other side of
the track—"'that is Harriahites albertt rufaf Now you know!"

Names aside, I sam mot at all stire that all the Lyre-birds of
those jungles of south-eastern Queensland belong to the ‘Albert
species, ‘There is no doult, of course, that Albert Lyre-birds are
confined fo the jungles of north-eastern New South Wales and
south-eastern Queensland (south of Brisbane). but no one seems
to have determined just where their range ends und thar of the
southern Lyre-birds begin, and it seems to me just possible that
the two species meet in some places.

Ad any rate, if the large-tailed Lyre-berd of the south does not
eccur in Queensland jungles i certainly is found in at Jeast one
portion of the northern State—jn the granite country near Stan-
thorpe. This fact became revealed in 1940. AL that time I was

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL. Litt Afay, 1936
Plate IT

Photo. by A. H. Chishalm
Lyre-bird’s Nest on a low rock in a gully near Gordon, Sydney

M y 4
998: Cnyisnoim, Lyre-birds af Throw States. ]

“

conducting a column of nature notes in a Brisbane newspaper,
and a boy wrote me regarding Lyre-hirds which he sairl were in
open country, among yvrent grunite boulders, neat Stanthorpe,
ahoiwt 100 miles inlaad. Support for this surprising statement!
came from Dr. Spencer Roberts, then a resident of the Jocality,
The result was that after touring (in a journalistic capacity) with
the then Prince of Wales, T Jeft the Royal train at Stanthorpe av
spent several days ainong the birds of the urea.

For one who had searched in vain for Lyre-birds' nésts in ¢ht
jungles, it was an astonishing experience to inspect. m Dr Roberta’
company, half a dozen nests 1n one day; they were scutlered freely
about the ledges of the huge ramparts of granite, and the voices
of the birds were often heard echoing among the rocks of that
wild and rugged region. Subsequently 4 specimen uf a male bird
was laken, and it was found to be, not the Albert Lyre-lird, but a
representative of the southern species, Certam modifications im
the plumage colours caused this clweller in the Granite Belt to be
given a name of its own—Menure edwardi, Prince Eclward’s
Lyre-bird, Tt is now recognized as a sub-species, Possibly the
securing of further specimens would clear the point, but 1 is vot
of sufficient inportance to. justify the kiling of the birds.

By this tine i had realized that Lyre-birds are fairly adaptahie
—that while for the must part they inhahit heavily vegetated
areas, they can he quite at home among rocky outcrops where
timber is sparse. Accordingly, 1 was not surprising tu imei the
birds, in somte abundance in the Hawkesbury sandstune region of
Sydney. Almost every extensive sandstone gully ucar Sydney
has its Lyre-birds, and for auvune who “knows his way aboue’’
it is not especially diffealy to discover one or more Hests during
a winter day’s ramble. Not once in a season dhiritig ten years dif
we fail ta discover nests of Lyre-birds in Sydury’s ylorious
National Park. and not once in six successive years did we fail to
find the nest of a particular pait that belonged to an isolated gully
on the outskirts of the pupulous suburh of Gordon. In the fungle
country at the southern end of the National Park the nests may
be placed on tree-ferns, on large stumps, ov at the hase of trees,
Tn the main, however, they are built info crevices of the great walls
of sandstone. Once, on the fringe of a suburb of northern
Sydney, a pair nested on a fat rock on a hillside, fairly in the
open, where the home was festooned with boronia and other
flowering plants.

Certamly the Lyve-birds near Sydney are much easier Lo see,
and their nests are infinitely easier to find, than is the case in
the northern jengles, Ti Queensland one could never safely
promise ta take visitors Lyre-birding; in Sydney this has became
something of a custum, Sir Philip Game, when Governor of New
South Wales, inspected fronr year to year at least half a dozen
Lyre-birds’ nests—rather more than the average Australian has

iG Cartswotm, Lyye-fisds of Three States. ag Ba

seen of is likely to see. Moreover, he often made the acquaintance
of mother-bircis at the nests, and between whiles he listened to the
thelody of the tale birds. But to see Menunra in display was
another matter. Even in the National Park the Sydney male birds
are coy, and it was only on rare occasions that we were able to
Steal upon one in full display.

It will be appreciated, therefore. that after many arduous
attempts to stalk male J-yre-birds in Queensland and New South
Wales, I was thoroughly astonished by the tolerance of the Lyre-
birds af Sherbrooke Forest, Victoria. My first visit there was i
July of 1934, in company with Mr. R. T. Littlejulins and offieces
of the Australian Broadcasting Commission. Immediately on
arrival we heared Loyve-birds calling, and within a few minutes we
caught a ghmpse of a fine male displaying and singing in an open
space—not on a mound. Sooa aiterwards another male bord
advanced toa mound directly in front of the breadeasting group
of ahout teu people, and there, disregarding: his aurlience, gave a
wonderful performance. Subsequently he sane twice nearby
while percling alelt, once on a kmh six feet high and again trom
a height of five feet ama fallen branch Jeaning against 4 tree. By
this time T was jmmune to astomsinnent and would not have been
taken aback if a Lyre-bird had come and fed from aur hands.
But—to think of all those tmes in the jungles when, for a mere
glimpse of a Leyre-hird, we crawled on our stomachs over hundreds
af sticks and stones! Certainty the Lyve-birds of Sherbrooke.
apparently through constant contact with humanity, have ways
of their own. They are the tamest wild Lyre-birds in the world.

‘The question is sometimes asked: Do dye stnging qualities of
Lyre-hirds vary in the various States? My own view is that for
sheer melody there is nothing to choose between them, One of
Gould's correspondents long ago declared the Albert Lyre-lird ia
be the chief vocalist, claiming that not only was its song louder
and fuller than those of southern Lyre-birds. bot its imitahuns
were more yaried asd accomplished. Je is trye that the Albert
Iyre-bird produces a wonderful metlley of mockery—it can
imitate anything front the warl of Uhe Cat-bird to the chattering
of a flock of Parrots—but it cannot excel the superb vocal powers
of its southern relative, There is, however, matter jor choice
between Lyre-birds generally and the ght little group of Sher-
broke Forest. Inn Queensland, it New South Wales, and in most
parts of Victoria the Lyre-hirds are faithful mockers, whereas the
Sherbrooke birds are given to improvisations,

[Those who desire to read further upon this subject are referred to the
follawing chapters i Mr. Chisholtn’s books: “Granite Gardens and Lyre-
birds” andl “Adistealin's Mocking Birds” (Birds aid Green Places), “The
Magic of Memira” and “Jungle Re-usions (Nalnre Fantasy in Austvatia),
and “Iyre-bird Revels" and “The Solitary Lady” (Bird Wonders of Ais-
tralic) ,—Editor.]

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LITI.—No, 2 June 4, "1936 No. 630

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA .

The ordinary monthly meeting of the Chih was held in the New
Herbariwm Hall, Sonth Yarra, on Monday, May 11, 1936. The
President, Mr. G. N. Hyain, presided, and about 90 members and
friends were present.

CORRESPONDENCE
_ Letters were received from the Historical Soviety of Victoria,
Advisory Council uv Fauna and Flora, and the Royal Automobile
Club, stating that they were belbind the Chub i its efforts to secure
better protection for National Monunients.

REPORT OF EXCURSION
Mr, T. 5. Hart reported on his excursion to Black Rock.

ELECTION OF MEMBERS

Ou a show-of hands the following were duly elected as ordinary
members; Miss Tda Knox, Miss Mary Knox; and as associate
members! Miss Elizabeth Lecas, Miss Audrey Piper, Miss fean
‘Stakle.

NOMINATIONS OF OFFICE-BEARERS, 1936-37 -

The following nominations were received —

President: Mr. S, R. Mitchell,

Viee-Presidents: Myr. Geo, Coghill, Mr. A. H, Chisholm,

Treasurer: Mr. J. Ingram,

Librarian: Dr. ©, S. Sutton.

Assistant. Librarian’ Mr. W_ HH. Ingram.

Eclitor: Mr. Chas. Berrert.

Secretary: Mr. F.S. Calliver,

Assistant Secretary! Mr. L, W. Cooper,

Committee: Miss Fiorence Smith, Messrs. FE. FE. Pescatt, H.
Jenkins, Chas, Daley. V, H, Miller. H. C. E. Stewart, W. Hanks,
J. W, Audas, s\. S. envon, R. H. Croll:

Auditors: Mr. A. S. Chalk and Mr, A. G. Hooke were duly
elected,

NATURE NOTES

Mr. V, H. Miller reported that as an Honorary Inspector under
the Fisheries and Game Act, he had stopped a man catching Silvey
Gulls with a hook and line,

18 Field Naturatsts’ Chik Procerdings Ny dial:

GENERAL BUSINESS

It was announced that Prof. P12. Lloyd. aca. p.sc., would give
a public lecture on “The Carnivorous Plants of the World” ar
the University, on Wednesday, June 10. .

SUBJECT FOR EVENING

The “Subject” was an explanation of, and discussion on, National
Monunients.

The President briefly explained what was meant by the term
National Monuments, and gaye a number of suggestions as to
objects well worthy of beiug classed as such, m this State. He
then moved: “This Club-shall take immediate steps to call a
conference of all interested hodies with a view to obtaining legis-
lation for the proclamation, reservation and protection of National
Monuments of natural origin or the handiwork of man; of a
scientific, historic or scenic interest, for all time.”

The motion was seconded by Mr. R. 4. Croll, and carried_

Mr, S, R, Mitchell then gave a lecture, illustrated by niequs of
the epidiascope, on National Monuments in Japan, United States of
America, and New Zealand.

Mr. J. Railton, President of the Tree Planters’ Association, and
Mr. Owens, the Secretary, spoke i support of the proposed move-
ment designed to preserve National Monuments.

EXHIBITS

Mr. C, Daley—Fossil wood found at Black Rock in 1866 hy
Mr. G. Kevo,

Mr. Robin Croi.—An orchid (Pterastylis vittata), flowering
for the sixth year in the same spot.

Mr. Noel Lothian. Specimens of Encalyptus lencoxyion, show-
ing white and pink variations in the flowers; found at Torquay,
March, 1936,

Mr. A. R. Varley —Polyzoa (Retepora sp.) from Westerapnrt
Bay. Several specimens of the Basket Fungus.

GIANT CLEMATIS PLANTS

Giant specimens Of Clonatis glycinatdes are growing on Eucalypts close
to the King’s Highway (Cann River Road) and to Flat Rock Creek, in the
Parish of Kowat, County pf Croajingalong: At the request of Mr. A. M. G.
Thorn, of Kowat, the plants were measured hy Mr. W. Hunter, Lands
Department Surveyor, of Bairnsdale. Mrs. Thorn, m forwarding particulars,
slates thar the plants, which haye been under observation for some years,
are definitely C. jlyemuides. The tallest is 85 feet in height, another 75
feet and others considerably more than SO. feet.

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL. LUI Fun, 1936
Plate III

Fram oa painting by Mob tawte,

“Velvet-foot” Fungus Collybia velutipes

rae Bargett, .f Painter ef Fungi 19

A PATNTER OF FUNGI
By Cuarces BARRETT

Triumphing over ill-health, Michael Howie, when he died, had
accomplished work that deserves more than the praise af a few
botanists, concerned chiefly with scientific values. As a painter of
Australian fungi, the young self-taught artist excelled. His talent
was developed and used despite a handicap that deprived hini of
active Inish outings. He could not go rambling tr their haunts, but
toadstools and their kin were brought to hin, and he preserved
the shapes and colours of these short-lived plants, His paintings
form a gallery unique.

When some of his paintings were sent to ine, I thought at once
of the Naturalist, and later it was arranged that Mr. J. Hf. Willis
and his brother-in-law, the artist, should contribute to the Club's
journal. The number devoted to Gilled Fungi of Victoria was
the rest. A notable issue, which has done much to popularize
fungi and introduced many of us properly to familiar piants, known
vaguely as “toadstools.” When the Iictortar ferns book was in
preparation, Mr. Howie was asked to do the paintings for colour
plates ; a commission executed at a nominal fee, He would have given
them, as he gaye the use of his fungus pictures, had we heen
willing. He loved colour drawing, amd worked for the joy of the
working.

A brave spirit had Michael Wowie; and one likes to temenber
him with that quiet smile of his: er the eyes revealing keen interest
in talk about his favourite subjects. From a few vears, after choice
of a special field, he yained his merit—estahlishing a claim to front
rank as a painter of fungi. He made no claim himself, being
content to work, and rest, and work again, An hour at the table
tired him. His achievement becomes more remarkable when |is
handicap is remembered. Two hundred paintings, many of them
little masterpieces; all admirahle.

Born on March 26, 1900, at Creswick, Mir, M. I, Howie was
never strong, suffering from a curious muscular atrophy which
prevented him from walking when 16 years of age. Being extremely
fond of outdoor life and rambling in the bush among the wild
things he loved, the lad felt keenly this enloreed inactivity; he
became entirely dependent tipon others to wheel him about in an
invalid chair, Despite such a handicap, his natural cheerfulness
and optiniusni caused tim to look ahout for avenues of service, ard
during the war years—three brothers were at the Front—he deter-
mined to make use of a natural gift for colouring. So he began
painting patriotic designs on badges, ribbons, knitting-bags, ete. ;
hundreds of these were executed and sold readily for Red Cross
funds,

Without ever a lesson in drawing or painting, le became an

¥ic. Mat.
Val. LIT.

20 Barrett, 4 Painter of Furnyt
artist and evolved a technique that turned his imterests to com-
mercial possibilities. By 1926 he had orders from several large
stationery firms in the cittes for oil-painted calendars and suéde
work, the designs being principally of wildflower and bird subjects.
In 1931, at the sugvestion of Mr. J. HE. Willis (then a close friend),

From a painting by Ml of. Harvie,

Rosites australiensis

he commenced painting a series of fungal studies from fresh
specimens gathered ly his future brother-in-law, and, with a little
expertcnee, proved that he had a special gift in this direction. A
serious illness in 1934 left hint more incapacttated than ever, and
for months it was believed he would never he able to paint again;
however, by resting lis weakened arms on a table and moving the
brush with wrist only, he was able to do a little painting each day,
achieving remarkable results. His best work was completed after
this illness, and from then until his death, on January 21, 1936, he

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL. Litt Func, 1936
Plate IV

weak

From a painting by M. [. Howie

* Rainbow Fungus" Poelystictus versicolor

J ‘ [
ppg Barretr, ol Painter of Fungi 21

delineated uo fewer than 200 different fumgim—a collection of
accurate nature paintings which are among the finest of their kitrd
in Australia,

The Botany Sehoul, Melbourne University, on seeing some of
these plates, commissioned the artist to supply the School's refer-
ence tbrary with as many cupies as he was prepared to make. At
the time of his death he had sent to the University seven dozen paint
ings of fungi, many species being figured on some of the plates.
He also painted numerous pictures of Toadstools and wildflowers
for The Weekly Tunes: they were reproduced in colour.

With his exceptional talent and triumph over a disability that
would have deterred the ambition of most artists, Michael Howie
was withal a modest, retiring man of charming personality who
had many distinguished friends and no enemies of his own making.
He had varied literary interests. for his was a keen mind well
halanced through intensive reading. He wrote verse and short
plays of some merit, and in 1933 won second prize at the South
Street Literary Competition for an essay on Soha Galswarthy, the
Man and Hts Books. He was an enthusiastic debater, ancl was
intimately connected with many phases of church activity until
compelled te retire by increasing physical weakness.

The work which Michael Towie accomplished in his brief tle-
ume was tspirecdl primarily by the love of service. [his work wall
endure. A few of his paintings are here reproduced, Tven with-
out colour, their delicacy and charur are apparent.

NOTES ON THE ILLUSTRATIONS
By J. H. Wits

Palystictis verstcalor.--Called “Rainbow Fungus” from the
beautiful coloured zones usually present on its surface, this thin,
leathery bracket fungus is common in almost every corner of the
earth, wherever timber is subject to rot. Usnally it attacks clead
wood on which the fan- or rosette-shaped fruiting bodies may he
seen) at any time af the year. Fencing posts, telegraph poles and
woodstacks are frequent hosts, and occasionally the fungus turns
parasite and attacks living fruit trees or garden shrubs, The upper,
zemed surface is finely velveted, the lower white and consisting of
tiyvriads of tity pores from which the spores are dropped,

Rosites anstralicnsis— stout and often very large toaedstonl
(up te a foot broad) with white caps as simootl as kis it is at
first round and loaf-like, expanding as it grows and exhaling a
strong, rather pleasant sinell. The gills are pale brown and. the
hulbous stem clad in’ several ragged envelopes representing the
point of attachment of the thick veil Occurring usually in colonies
on forest soil and rather aneanimon.

wae. inmie
Vol LHL

22 Barrett, Af Putter of Bangi

Collybia vclutipes—The “Velvet-foot,” so-called from its
brown or blackish velvety stems, grows in dense clusters against
logs and stumps—usually of some wattle species. The caps are
at first glutinous and may vary in colour from pale yellow to rich

From a jainting by M. f. Howie.

“Inky-cap” Fungus, Copriais fuscescens

orange-brown or chestnut. This toadstool, though said to be
edible, has a decidedly inferior and rather unpleasant flavour.
Common on mossy trunks in mountain gullies.

Coprinus fusecscens—. typical representative of the “Inky-
caps” whose delicate fruiting bodies are destined to rapidly shrivel
up or dissolve in an unwholesome mass of slime. This grey-brown
species has rather large evlindrical caps (2-4 inches high) which
grow in large clamps at the bases of rotting stumps. Not uncom-
mion in deep-seiled mountain gullies. Mast Coprint are edible, but
seldom gathered in sufficient quantity to be cooked.

ni Nuttoles, bite Sua Orchid, Thelynittra longifolia Zs

THE “COMMON” SUN ORCHID, THELYMITRA
LONGIFOLITA &. and G. Forster

By W, TE. NicHocs

In af Census of the Plants of Mtetoria (1929) Thelyantitra longi-
foha is credited with a wide distribution in the State. and most
other publications concerned with the flora of Australia vive it
prominence as ‘a common spectes.” But it is strange that a plant
(supposedly ) so widespread should not be represented by at least
afew specimens at our Wild Nature Shows, or at Club mcetings
held during its flowering season. Since the Chib's inception, no
record of an undoubted example of Th. lougifelia has appeared in
The Victorian Naturatist.

For many years—since—1926—I have sought this long-leaved
species; but in vain. Many representative herbaria have been
diligently examined for specimens, and collectors of Orchidaceous
plants in other States have been frequently asked for this Sun-
Qrehid. None has been received.

In collections of Australian plants other forms have been incor-
rectly diapnosed and labelled “Th. longifolia Forst." Careful
examination has shown these mostly to be Th, pancifolia R.Br.,
and Ph, aristifa Lad. while some few were proved to be Th.
grandiflora Fitz.: eve Th. media R.Br. has heen represeuted as
Th. longifolia, Th, pauctHora is sometimes recorded as a synonym
of the Farsters’ species, but it has, though given to marked varia-
tion, the definite qualifications of a valid species.

Th. longifolia was first found im October, 1769, at Tolaga Bay,
by Banks and Solander, during Couk's first voyage. Solander, in
lis manuscript, Primitte Flore Nove Zelaudiec, described it under
the name of Serapias reqafaris; Inuit as the work was never pub-
lished the name has no standing in botanical literature. It was also
collected by the two Forsters on Cook's second vovage, but in what
locality is not stated, although it must have been Queen Charlotte
Sound or Dusky Bay. After their return it was published in’ the
Forsters’ Characterts Gencrium Plantarian, onder the name it now
bears. It is now known to range from the Three Kings Islands
and the North Cape southwards to Stewart Island and the Auck-
lane] [slatels, anc ascends the mountains to a height of 4,000 feet.
Tt occurs in all soils and conditions of habitats with the exception
of dense forests. [ts range of habitats is remarkable?

Th. longifolia is recorded from New Caledonia also. 1 have
personally examined a flower of one of R. H. Compton's specimens
(No. 1946) collected at Toune (30/10/1914), For this specimen-
bloom, and alse for photugraphs of Compton's material and the
Forsters’ type speciinen, ete.. Laur indebted to Mr. J. Ramsbottom,
Keeper of Botany at the British Museum, London, The most

1. Mbistrations ef the Nete Zeatand flora, Cheeseman, ti, 1914, pl. 192.

' eae a: ve Vic. Nat.
24 Nicuous, The Sun Orchid, Thelymitra longifolia one sai

‘Common Sun Orchid, Thefyaitra fengifolic

cine Nienores. The Sun Qyetid, Thetymttea tarngifolta 25

interesting figure represented im the photographs is, of course,
the type speciinen of Th, lougifalta, The specimen is about 32 cm.
in length, the leaf is very long, nbbon-like, and the Mowers number
(apparently) seven. The figures* accompanying the original
description of Th. fengifolio are apparently drawn from herbarinnt
maternal. Very little cctail is shown, and for purpnses af diagnoses
they are pracucally valueless Cheeseman’s figures, however, give
a very clear idea of the characteristics of Th. longifolia, A careful
exaimimahon al the column of Compton's speciinen-fower (No.
IMG specinen) was undertaken; the column has a long tube-tike
mid-lohe—unilike that mm Th, longifolia Wut similar to the nrd-lobe
of Lindley’s Th. aristate! But the examination of additional iaterial
Wiust be undertaken before such a statement can be considered as
of diagnostic iatportance.

Miss M. Sutherland, Assistant Botanist, Dominion Marsean,
Wellington, New Zealand, has courteously forwarded fresh, also
preserved specimens of Tr, longifolia, collected im several localities
in the Dominion, but chiefly “on the hills east of Wellington Ifar-
hour, crowing on dry ridges of poor clay-shale soil or rotten grey-
wacke tock. The area ms parily under Nurthafagus Fores (4-
fusca), cliffortroides and irineate, and partly open Manuka ridges,
_ saicceeding Wurnt bush, the orchids growing mostly on the open
ridges,”

Mr. H. B. Matthews, of Remuera (N.7.), so well-known in
botanic circles, writes: “Th. fongifatia Forst, is a very vanable
plant, the leaf, sometimes over 18 inches long, and nearly une meh
wide, tapering to a point. ather speamens have the leaves vary-
ing much in length and width, from a few inches to a foot or more,
bul are wsnally flat and not grooved much after leaving the stem.
The leaves vary in colour also. The size and colour of the flowers
is hkewise variable, but the column, with its short dense tuft of
ciha, maintains its characteristic features jn all the different forms.’

Dr R. S. Rogers, of Adelaide (5,4.), writes of this species as
follows; “T have seen Furster’s illustrations and they are so had
as to be practically useless for purposes of identification. His
description is hardiv more helpful, Consequently, for many years
almost every Thehywtra wich Tair lufts was placed unifer this
species, with the result that a very much wider distriliition was
assigned to it than was warranted, We have tu reaienyber that the
original type’came from New Zealand and it is nor impossille that
it does not even mrfend tu Australia. The plant bearing that name
in New Zealaiyd does not appear to me to be represented with
certainty hy arything I have seen in Australia. The leaf is vers
different and there are distinctions in the column whith sheoulil
make us hesitate a) aeceptins pur species as identical wut chat in
the Deminion."

2 Cher. Gen. Plant, 98, tah. 49. |

& Mr. Matthews Sorwarded excellent photortaplis of Th, domyrfelia,

26 A “Model” of Diprotodon er ian

Thus, it appears that this species is not Australian and should
be deleted from our records.

Deseription of Th. fowgifolia Forst—A yariable plant, both in
height and robustness, but typically about 30 cm. in heght. Leaf
long and mbbon-like, deeply channelled towards the base, but rather
flat and acuminate beyond. Flowers about 7 or 10 usually, pale
blue or whitesh, about 2-2:'5 cm. in diameter. Column short, rather
stout, uot definitely hooded, margins of mitl-lohe, corrugated ; the
forward margins produced into two subulate or tooth-like apices;
lateral lobes erect. with short, dense white hair tufts, Stigma com-
paratively small, situated in the lower part of the column. Flower-
mg dynag November and December,

KEY TOG PLATE
Th. fonytfolia Forst-—A: ‘Typital specimen. B: Sections of leaf, lower

figure fram hase, upper figure [rom above. C Column frou irout {hair tufts
removed). D: Showing formation of mid-lobe, etc, E) Column drom side,

, A “MODEL" OF DIPROTODON

Middle-aged members of the Club will remember the huge
wooden figures of Diprotedon and a Giant Extinct Kangaroo,
which excited ther childish wonder at the Zoological Gardens.
The: Zoo we knew as children is very different from that of to-day.

Few relics of aur Golden Age remain; but none of those gone
ts much regretted. We should like them back only to smile at,
those mighty wooden figures which stood among gum trees in a
paddeck enclosure, They were dismantled more than twenty years
ago. Glancing through a collection of photographs, mostly taken
hy the late Mr. Dudley Le Souéf, I came upon this portrait of the
wooden Dipratedan, with Wattie Parsons standing beside it, A
famous elephant keeper was W'attte; his son is emploved at the Zoo.

Crude life-size “models” were those old wooden structures, with
shape, but not form; mere flattened things, painted on one side
in “natural colours." They might have been cut out of a signboard
of the wa)! of a cottage. And yei, in onr eyes they were wonderiul
thirty or forty years age.

A pity that they were not preserved as histori: rélits of an age
when childven were casily pleased and had the lost sense of wonder.
Almost they belong to the eva of Dundrearys and top hats, and peg-
top trousers, Qur fathers have told us that, aS small boys, they
marvelled at these wooden. figures, Titan Kangaroo 4nd Diproto-
dow The latter was the more mtriguing of the two; and one
youngster remembers how he shivered at the thought of meeting
sucha monster on the bush. Dipratodan, he had been told, roamed
over ihe sile of Melbourne about w million vears ago. Imagination
peopled West Melbourne Swamp with wallowing beasts larger
thana Rhinoceros and Wombat-like in form. The Kangaroo was
less impressive. perhaps, because only an enlargemint of a faminar
animai—the Giant Red Kangaroo, C.B.

Fune, 1936

VoL. LILI

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST

Plate V

‘Mopor1osdy JO sINBi.Z uspooyy 2Z1s-ajr]

June /
1934 Tatts Ravenswood ih the Aylin 27

RAVENSWOOD IN THE AUTUMN
by A, J. Tancrnr

“What do You eXpect ta find m weather with the temperature
at freezing point at early morning?’ | am asked “And a rather
dry season in tte country,” Tadd, Well, I hail told our Editor,
who was for helping a botamst from abroad. that the chanres were
very remote of finding carnivorous plants in May and June when
the search should be in the springtime of Victoria, Still, I had
found some of thew in odd years, andl not in inaccessible places,
sa] hoped that this might be one of the favourable seasons,

Why not try your North-West correspondents? I had urged,
So the North-West I decided to try to investigate mvself. If I
went alone, no companion would be disappointed if I failed, 1
decided, therefore, to jump off at a country railway station and
see what a six- or eight-nole walk would give mc. I scon, however,
noted the dry grass and conditions when nninfluenced by coastal
showers of the south. One just as often overlooks in collecting, as
he fails ro re-fiuel, But there is the thrill of dhe fad. In autumn,
one must uot furget to be near the raillhead at suuset even af that
entails a two hours’ wait for the return train.

1 like Ravenswood because of its boundless paddocks, its rolling
downs, and Parmetia (lichen)-coverell granite vuterops, which
Inde the more distant domed hills Tn autumn one misses the lush
green grass and the expectancy of many floral treasutes, Compen-
sations are in bird life, mothering ewes, clear atinosphere lending
enchantment when the hills are reached, and Mitchell's route is
being traced Lowartls the Grampians. One is compelled to pause
often ta drink in the mloxicuting views extending many miles to
horizons of high muuntam ranges or peaks that must have served
well in the Geodetic Survey of the early colonists, and showing that
the surroundings of Bendigo are hy no means Aaf while allowing
the tiorther rivers co flow towards their mother Murray, One
reflects on the quantity of fine timber that has been taken front
these pastoral fits which were denuded largely fur mining pur-
poses by great-grandiather when delving in or ta make cradles for
the rich wash dirt.

Many fine umbrageous Red Cains (Eucalyptus rostratay line
the creeks. and on these I see a few blossoms and countless buds,
while dwarf Long-leaved Box (£. elecaphora) trees occupy the
stony hillsides. Sonetimes the Guins are so covered with pendant
branches of Mistletoe, abundant in stot bright berries, with nchiy-
coloured foliage and stems as if sap had beew robbed together
with colouring mattér, and rendermy it alist impossible soinetimes
to discover if the foliage was Lorawliws or Euenyptus. Small
chatleritig parrots that might be Budgerigars, are in the trees.
Black-and-White Flycatchers fit about in pairs and find food in the

28 Tagortc, Rauenstyoad iw the Letina vin ate

sunshine. Plame Robing and mates are busy, Noisy Yellow-erésted
Cockatoo scouts warn the flock as they fly ungainly aver my head,
while Ravens and Magpies art restless or gather in groups sealeh-
ing the ground.

While following up acreek T notice a patch of Iwewnish-yellow
foliage and find it to he the Bulrush, of Bullensh, Cat's Tail. ox
Reedmace, upon which so much effort has been spent in the
endeavour to créale new species, with want of signal success. Jit
pur awn State we find that the male and female flowers, which are
the niain features, are separated by a considerable space om the
floral stalk where tt will be found the males are at the ton, the
large plush-like cylinder, the females heing underneath. There
would seein to be little 1m the eudetvour to make capital o7 the
jact that, distance separating the sex organs, the spike of the
female being interrupted or its length sometimes of a line, af others
lengthening to one foot, shoule characterize different species as
seme have thouglit. Thus our Austrilian Typha has been given
different names like T. Muellert, 7. Basedcautt, 1, Brownit, all
included under 7. engustiieha> and it 1s noted that the reduced
tength of the feinale spike is seen in the tropicat fons while the
longer are noted in temperate climes

in Great Britain there is one species known as 7. latefolia because
of prosinnty and interruption. The flowers of the imale are rether
unkempt looking, ucarly bare stalks, slicking out of the pretty plush
cushion, hut perhaps that is modesty on the part of the male. nor
seelsing to detract front his consort. Really the sex flowers are Tile
thase of sedges or the Cores, the males superimposing the female,
whose jistil argans ate clothed in soft hairs chat caver the ovaries
and scales. while it is hardly to be guessed that the velvety cases
contain ane seeded nul. Our scientific and vernacular names are
riot alwa¥s well chosen, but here they both are apt; 7 yAfa standing
for a umvarsh and buf or ball referring to the size of the plant and its
cylinderhke fenale urgaus. Whe kept loo long dey, il is found
chat the cylinders burst and pour out a kapok-like material in a
neverending stream like mist, smoke or rain, giving rise ta another
Greek name very much akin to Typha. Our Typlia has heen of
use to the Aboriginal, providing food froin one part and fish spears
froin anatlier, while earlier settlers uzed the “kapok” for stuffing
pillows.

But we have outstayed our exanynation of the Marsh Reed, and
we have just reached the hills after two hours from starting oui,
Autumn orchids should be in flower. but only Pterosmwis parvi-
flara is seen. Leprdospriina laterals and Pelargonium Roduevanni
are blooming, ‘The twining Thvsanotns Patersont js nov vet in
flawer aid is examined for a stgler without the robust tubers end
earler flowermg period. The hill summit or ridge does not pro-
vide at this season too inany specimens of smaller levbs or plant

-

June i
1937. Tancen,, Ravensivent th dre ofytiuml zy

lite. hut a beautitul Blue Gan Soliage altracts one, stiggescing &
dobulus in its bloom. The saplings are not im Aower or hud but
are umque in their rich colouring, variety of forms of fnliage and,
as 1 cout some eight different forms of leaves. think of dhe dilii-
culty of trying to identify by shape of foliage, However, witli lania-
ated dark grey bark on the lower trunk and sinmng wiriter-
hrewi of the upper branches and the cortate juvenile foliage,
do. not hestitate to class tt as one of the many species cvolved trom
what was formerly varietal &. elveophoraor gomocalyx, naw con-
stituted species. Acacias are confined to two species. The hand-
some many-patalled nerved A. anplera, with Jong, narrow 12-inch
phyllodes narrawing into long petioles, glandular ar join to the
richly-coloured stalk and comlstuing in its juvenile foliage both:
bipinnate and lance-faleate leaflets. Another striking Jeatyre is
w handsonte shrub six feet square, one mass af Howers. Well has
A, colletioides heen dubbed “Wait a while,” for Tt took me quite
a munute or two co detach small pieces from the parent, during
which operation 1 was well pricked for my trouble. It is distin-
guished by its many peduncled clusters of flowers, its articulated,
pungent, subulate phyllades. Tt keeps well in water. il placed in a
yase while boiling hat. T have it looking as if just picked afeer
a week at honte.

] am tempted to turn down a bush road leading: Heatleute way,
especially as lereabout I know 1 shall find in season Chemwithera
liteaits, sa reserve that fur a November outing. Ir only grows
sparingly and is wisely protected rigorously luc it is a heauty to
beliald. An hour to go reminds me that J have three niles beiore
sitasat When To rmist be i hail at wy trailhead or I shale stumble
along in the darkness in “no read this way.” With back turned te
hills J descend and notice twe trappers setting their ¢yening traps.
tur rabbits are plentiful, although the wire netring should keep
them out, ag the barh wire should myself, J still have time to mn3pect
the soaks emanating from under the granite tors, but find hittle
except a 4f ymeotye equally at home in the turbid moisture, as it 15°
in climbing a erevice in che rock, With it is Caffririche Mueller in
flower and fruit; also the ever weloome flowering M/allenhergia
with both brown and white vesnture underneath its flowers of blue,
Cassia arcudta flowers are falling and Acrotriche sarrelnia shows
no blooms, though its sister, Astrolama hunufiesin, lends brilhant
coloring by its scarlet tubes that fall when touched. Still T hunt
wisticcesstally for Lentivdarecrae and Drasera that T have not
seen traces of all day. Casnorina stricta's fHowers of both sexes are
neatly ouc, but wall not gratify me. avs T wait for the train T watcle
Jupiter vising jn the east, and Orion set in the west. whilé enlarged
hy cip anc refraction Scorpio and Aquilla seem twice their normal
size viewed in the frosty atr

‘ apse in, Nite
Hl Mitres, “Lee vx asian to tha Mills Mrs an

“LET US AWAY TQ THE HILLS”
By Brancue E. Mrnrie

“Lite ts short—enmnercial competition and the race for advanee
are keen . . . So Jet us away to the hills,’ remarked Dr, T. P-
Lucas, philosophically, in a paper which he read before the Club
in its first year. Wherher of not the members needed any such
suggestion it may be difficult ta determine, but in the lists of
excursions we have irrefutalle evidence of the lure of the hills.

Quite early in the histary of the Field Naturalists’ Ciub an
outing was arranged to the You Yangs, which lie some 30 miles
south-west of Melbourne. Rising abruptly from the surrounding
plains, they jorm a conspicuous landmark, It was necessary for
the excursionists to catch x train at 6.30 asn, Alighting at Little
River, there was still a considerable :leage to be covered on foot
before reaching the range, Under such circumstances, the day's
auting must have been rather strenuons, hut as some rarities, both
botanical and entomological, were collected, a similar excursion
was arranged for Cup Day, in the following year.

“Fort once if your hfe rise carly,’ Dr. Lucas had further advised
Ins hearers. Singularly enough, one member who wished to attend
the second trip te the You Yangs had, perforce, ta rise at 4 a.m.
and walk into town from Kew!

Everyone who has traversed the Werribee and Keilor Plains
is aware of the peculiar way in which the day's normal tempera-
ture becomes intensified, Autucin's bracing air miraculously
changes 0 a piercing gale, and sunnter’s most gentle zephyr is hke
a blast from a Surnace, Truc to form, the Werribee Plains proved
nicongeiial on the occasion of the Club’s second visit, in 1882.
Torrential rats succeeded a hurricane wind shortly atter noon,
and precluded the possibility of any further collecting. It must Ie
remenibered that, in bygone days, the Feld Naturalists’ excursions
were primarily collecting trips. not merely social jaunts, so it is
little wonder (hat, in tae jace of such adverse conditions, the
enthusivsin evidenced the previgus year waned considerably, Near
did the You Yangs again appear on the oficial svilabus far aver
a quarier oF a century!

Tn due tine, other letders found much of interest iu visits to the
locality, and various reports have appeared in The Micteran
Naturalist, mostly teferring io the geology, the botany, and the
insect life,

So many years had elapsed since a Club picnic had been held that
even many of (he older members thought the idea was an inova-
tien Wher it was again mooted by Mr V.H, Miller, in 1931. “Let
us go tu the hills," I suggested, and after deliberation the choice
dell on rhe You Yangs, Jor many reasons. Essentially a social qut-
ing, those who wished to rest and chat cotld, from the picnic

dnne . Fy,
facie \ Mouner, “Let us away fa the Dlilts RO]

ground, survey a scene that is the fulfilment of all rhat Matthew
Flinders prophesied when he viewed it 130 years betore, The
energetic ones wlin rssayed to follow the taurist track, and climb
to the very rop of Station Peak. or as it is now called, Mlinders
Peak, would be amply rewarded with a panorama that ermtbraces
Seascapes and landscapes, pastoral areas and growing cities. Pus-
sibly others would prefer to make yse of the day, and every branch
of natural history was catered Tor, within the confines of the Parle,

Especially does the You Yaugs merit a greater share of atten-
tion From the bird-lever than has fornierly been the case, for it
marks the mast southern limit of many species of birds not usually
found nearer to Melbourne. The surrounding country being neet-
pied tends jw make the birds concentrate on the ranges. Ht 15 true
such well-known forms as Magpies, and Ravens, and Magpie-larks
prefer the open spaces. Harriers patrol the low-Jying areas, and
Plover dearly love the moist places. Even my mid-winter some
Straw-necked This may be seen on the plains, except in very dry
years, and any ty little sheet of water wall attract the lonesome
White-faced Heron. The Emus which Flinders saw have Jong
since been ahsentees, and the Bustar¢ thar provided a variation
from the constant damper and mutton of the early pastoralists, has
not been recorded from the plains for wany a lone day, althongh
still a few find sanctuary elsewhere.

Any scason of the year 3s a good time to visit the You Yangs,
but the rarer forms ef bird-life are spring and suiuumer. visitors.
Then it is that the Black-eared and the Square-tailed Cuckoos
arrive with their hetter-known brethren, the Pallid, the Fantailed,
and the Brouze. The calouriul Ramhow Birtis. as well as some
Honeyeaters that are not permanent residents, are striking examples
of that oft-reiterated assertion that, generally speaking, hicds nest
in tte coldest part of their range. Dellar Birds ave other rlistin-
guished visitors. as well as the Cuckoo-Shrikes—shrike-like birds
with the flight of a Cuckuo. The flowering of the gunis syneliron-
izes with the arrival of the Lorikeets—rawdy, irresponsible rascals ;
and with the Swift Parrot, who indulges in sinnlar nectars, but
“carties his ‘liquor like a gentleman’!

In the Park, the lower grassy slopes provide for many ground-
loving birds, Whitefaces, and the decorative Diamond Firetails,
relentlessly trapped in many localities. although on the fully pra-
tected list’ Many species of lizards hask on the fallen leaves, and
can monientarily cduse apprehension 3 an area known to be fre-
quented by snakes. Perhaps of all the Rwbing, none is more sougli
after than the Red-capped from the north, which nests i the wattle
plantations, Tt would, indeed, be a poor day if one did not list at
least fiity spemes of hirds, and still Inve anyle time for special
oliservations of lavourite or tinconinan types. Then, towards close
af day, when the shadows lengthen, rhere are secluded panls that
are worth vsiling,

, sf Vic. Nat.
Be Mareen, “Let ns ascuty ta Hee Hills Vat TAI

Perhaps few people other than field naturalists realize how im-
portant itis to a bird to have ample bathing facilities. No better
method of Jearurug the truth of this statement can be recomunended
thay th elraw a car fairly close bo water, and await events. Move-
menr is the mast disturbing thing to any wild creature. Jf you
can keep perfectly stl. all is weil, and a car allows some Iittle
Inovement, which is nat noticeable to a bird, There is a favourite
spot ta which we always inake, at the oonelusian of a visir to the
You Yangs. where many birds assenthle for their evening ahlu-
trons. Christopher Robin's joyous memories of his bath are surely
echoed by the White-piimed Honeyeater—the 'Greenie” of our
sthurban gardens—who hugely enjoys a pume of “sca-sides,” a
recreation shared equally hy his smaller consins, the dapper little
ones with the white collars, and those that affeer a hrown velvet
heret-

Towards stinset, numbers ot Bronze-wing Pigeons arrive to.
rink, standing on the higher hank to reassure themselves that
they are nol i: any danger, before walking in a stately way to
the edge of the water, Always, there is a scout on guard, for once
a pigeon starts tn drimk, it seldons raises its head until finished,
They are the last of che day's birds, ancl lake their departure at
the setting 67 the sun,

“Life is short , . so let us away to the hills."

PUBLICATIONS RECEIVED RY TIELD NATURALISTS'
CLUB OF VICTORIA

Aagricuneal Gaselte of New Senth Uoles; Australian Museum; Aus-
frefion Notwralist; Australian Srience Abstracts; fusteatine Zogluats;
Ausival Avian Record; Auckland Lostitute and Musewm; California Univer-
sity Pubs.; Canterbury Museum: Commonwealth of Australia; Dominion
Museum, Wellington; FEacue: Entomologists’ Monthly Magazine; Field
Columbian Musemn of Natural History: Kew Botanic Gardens illetin;
Linnean Society of New South Wales; Locem: Melbourne Public Library
and Miseum; Microscopical Saciety of Victoria; New South Wales Depuart-
ment of Mines; New South Wales Fisherses; North Queeiwlaid Natwrelist ;
Philippine fonrual of Seiettce, Pomona College. Ciaremont, Jone. of Fat,
and Zoology; Queensland Naturalist; Queensland Musonm Monvira: Roya)
Saciety of New South Wales; Reyal Society of Queensland; Royal Society
of South Austriulia: Royal Society of “asmania; Hoyat Society of Victoria;
Royal Society of Weateriy Australia! Royal Zoological and Acclinin. Sariety
of Victoria; Smithsonian Institute; Sovth Australias Museum: Sonth
Austvaltan Naturalist: Santi: Anvatvalian Ornithalonist, Sydney University
Repriuts, Tasinanian Naturalist; United States National Museum; Victorian
Mines Department; Westers Australian Museum; Wester Austraton
Naturatrst.

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol, LITl,—No. 3 July 81936 No. 631,

THE FIELD NATGRALISTS' CLUB GF VICTORIA

The Annual Meeting of the Club was held in the Royal Society's
Hall, on Monday, June 8, 1936. The: President, Mr. G. N. Hyam,
presided and about eighty members and friends attended.

The President stated that copies of Vol. 50, No. 12, and Vol. 51,
No. J, of the Victorian Naturalist were urgently wanted by the
Club; and asked that members who had spare copies would donate
them,

Natiorial Monuments—The President announced that arrange-
ments for a conference of all interested Societies were in hand,

‘The Editor stated that the Sheil Book would he available shortly
and that preliminary sales were very satisfactory,

WELCOME TO VISITOR

Mr, Charles L. Barrett introduced to the meeting a dlistingnished
visitor, Dr. I’. Ii. Lloyd, Emeritus Professor of Botarry. “MeG al
University, Montreal, Canada, He stated that the I'rofessur was
the foremost authority ¢ on Carnivorous Plants, and had discovered
several new species in Australia already.

The President extended a welcome to Professor Lea whi
suitably replied.

CORRESPONDENCE
From Mr, J. H. Willis, thanking the Club for sympathy
expressed in his recent bereavement.
Irom Miss Nrances l'sperson, Lardner, regarding the Pink Salt
Lakes.
REPORTS ON EXCURSIONS

Excursions were reported ou as follows :—Belgrave, Mr. G. N.
Hyam read a comprelicnsive report on hehalf of the leaders, Messrs
Chalk, Hovke and Stewart. Mr. Ivo Hammett and Mr. a S.
Chalk reported on the Botanical Gardens Iéxcursion. My. Haim-
mett stated that Mr. St. John was Grable through an accident, to
act as leader.

ELECTION or MEMBERS
On a show of hands the following were duly elected as Ordinary
Members of the Club:—Miss Eileen Mason, Messrs. F. Fergus,
H., Reeves, and W_D, Andrew; and as Country Member, Mr. J,
Philphot.

‘ é i "View Mat.
34 Meld Natnvabsts Clit Proceedunys val ae

ANNUAL REPORT

The Annual Report was read by the Hon. Seeretary. On the
iniotion of Mr. J. W. Audas, seconded ly Mr. A. P. Underwaad, it
was received, and om the tyotion of Mr. A. S. Kenyon, seconded
by Mr. A, S. Chalk, adopted. Mr. A. J. Swaby congratulated the
Committee on a very fine report.

BALANCE SHEET

The Balanec Sheet was read and explained by Mr. A. G, Hooke,
who moved its adoption; this was seconded by Mr, S. R. Mitchell.
Mr. G. N. Hyatn thanked the auditors and the treasurer for heir
efforts and put the motion, which was duly carried,

ELECTION OF OFFICERS: 1936-37

The President; announcing that only one nomination had been
yeceived for the office, declared Mc. S. R. Mitchell the new
President, and vacated the chair in his favour. Mr, Hyam congratn-
lated Mr. Mitchell, who suitably replied.

The following officers, being unoppased, were dhily declared
clected —

Mr. Geo. Coghill, Mr. A. H. Chisholm, c.v.a,0.u., Vice-Presi-
dlents.

Mr. J. Ingram, Treasurer

Dr. C. S. Sutton, Librarian.

Mr, W. H, Ingram, Assistant Librarian.

Mr. Charles L. Garrett, c.o0z.s., Echtor.

Mr, F. S$. Colliver, Secretar y.

Mr, L. W. Cooper, Assistant Secretary,

On a ballot being taken the following were elected as members
of the Coumnittee:—Messrs. V. H. Miller, A. 5, Kenyon, main,
(aust,), C. Daley, u.a., r..s., E. FE. Pescott, pus,, atid H, C E.

‘Stewart. -

To test the feelinge of the inembers as regards the proposed
transfer oi the Club Rooms to the new Herharitim a ballot was
taken. The tesult was strongly in favour of remaining at the
Royal Socicty’s Hall.

PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS

The new President. Mr. 5. 8. Mitchell, then called on Mr. Hyam
to deliver the Presidential Addr ess, which was entitled “Fields for
Naturalists." Mr. Hyam made valuable suggestions to inembers
who might wish to take tp natural history, hil who hetieved them-

_ selves to be handicapped through lack of scientific training,

yal Annnal Keport

te
ia)

NATURE NOTES

Notes were contributed as iullows:-—

Ants as fossil collectors. Mr. F.S. Colliver. Mushroom graw-
ing through a pumpkin, Mr. J. W. Audas, Shed skins af Brown
Snakes, Mr. A. A. Chisholm. Cadiitr’s sp. growing at Yan Yean.
and Crimson Rosella’s new food, Mr. V. HA. Miller. Structure
of Exgenia seeds, My, A. J. Swaby. Birds and Pepper-tree berries,
Mr, L. W Cooper (This was further spoken te by Messrs, Chis-
balm, Chalk, Kenyon, Underwoel and Hammett.) Wedge-railed
Eagle perched low down, Miss R. 8, Chisholm. '

EXHIBITS

Mr. H. Stewart—Commoner species of Fungi from Sherbrooke,
mecluding Armillaria metlea (“Toney” Dunes), [Pypolowe foser-
enlore, Cartinarins Arche, Carthunvins emvanamens (brawn
gills, dull preen cap}, Ayden repandunt, Trantttes tacite-gilva,
Mycena sp. (Pixie's Parasol"), Sicreum lobatum, Polystictus
mersiconlor (Rainbow” Fungus), Collybia vehatipes (“Velver
fant"), Clavaria pyxidata, Clavaria cinerea, Fishelina hepaticn
C'Beef-steak" Tungus), Plenrotts keapes Ciuninous), and
Pleuretus sub-applicatns.

Mrs. J, J. Freame—Conglomerate of fossil) Sea-Urchiis
(Lovemia forbest) Tram Beaumaris.

Mr. L, Wilson.—A fasciated form of Casuarina strict.

Mr. Noel Lothian.—Photographs of Acacia ariata growing out
of lava cliffs at Anakie Hills.

GENERAL BUSINESS
Mr, W. H. Ingram remarked that. as a proposal for the trans-
ference of the Aquarium was being considered, the Clah shoyld
tale steps ta bring before the authorities the desirahility of having
the Aquarium at the sea-side, preferably St, Kilda. It was decided
that the matter he referred to the Conmmittee for consideration.
The meeting was adjourned for the conversazione

FIFTY-SIXTH ANNUAL REPORT, JUNE, 1936
To the Members of the Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria
Latics and Gentleinen,

Your Committee has pleasure in submitting rhe fifty-sixth
Aunual Report,

The membership is ay Soflows:—Life Members, 10; Ordinary
Members, 240; Country Members, 77; Associate Members, 20;
petal, 456. his represents a decrease of S$ on the Bgures of the
last report (1935).

We recard with sorrow the death of Give members of the Club.
—Miss Doris Schulz (1931-36), Mr. C. F, Swinburn (1929-35),

7 ' Vie, Nat,
36 Aamnial Repart Vol, htt,

Mr. F. Pitcher, a Foundation Member’ (1880-35), Mr. William
Lawiord, a Life Member (1928-36), and Mr. f. Howie (1935-36)

The Clob also paid its loyal and sorrewful tonite on the passing
of our late King and Emperor. George the Fifth,

Attendances at the meetings have been well sustained, the sent-
ing acconimodation having heen fully taxed on niest occasions. The
sevond room is nsed fur the display of exhilits; which have been
varied and interesting, The Committee would like to see even
more extihits. which greatly ade te the interest of the meetings.
The coutributian of "Nature Notes by members is also very
welcome,

One meeting (May, 1936), was held in the new Herbarium Hall,
the remainder were held at the Cluh Rooms, Royal Society's Hail,
A coinprehensive series af lectures has been given dunng the
year, and the iollowmng contributed :—Presidential Adelress
(“Science Marches On”), by Mr, A. 5, Kenyon, main (aust,) ;
“The Master Mimic,” by Messra, F, Lewis, R, T. Littlejohns, and
A. H. Chisholm, ¢.r.a.0.u.; "British Wild Flowers,” hy Mr. E, E.
Pescott, 0.6.) “A North Queensland Night," by Messrs. A. N
Burns and F. 8. Colliver: "The Pollination of Flowers,” hy Mrs
E. Coleman; "Animal Life in the Antarctic,” by Dr R. EL
Priestley, m.c., M.a., 0.8c, (Vice-Chancellor af the University of
Melbourne); “The Western Grampians,” by Rey. C, L) Lang;
“The Centenary of Charles Darwin,” by Messrs, G. N, Hyam, F,
Chapman, ris. A. D, Hardy and rs 5. Colliver; “Common
objects of the Sea-shore.’ by Messrs. E. E. Pescott, Chas. Barrett,
C. J. Gabriel, A. J. Swaby, and others; “Nature in (he New
Hebvides,"” by Mrs. J. L. Fenton Woodburn; "Our Werk and
Experiences on Lady Juha Percy Island,” by Mr. M. Blackburn,
Fun. (Hon. Treasurer of the MeCoy Sacicty); and “National
Monuments,” hy Messrs. G. N. Hyani and 5, R. Mitelrell. At the
July meeting Mrs. V. H. Miller pave an interesting précis of the
Club's Annual Meetings in past years,

The epidiascope was of great value in allowing lecturers to
ilnstrate their papers by shdes, photographs and other material
projected on the serecn.

During the year the order of Business at Meetings was changer,
the “Subject for the Evening” now being number two on the
agenda; this change seems to be popular. Ewenty-four excursions
were held jn ahe year, three were cancelled through various
causes, They were generally well attended. and gave a great deal
nf pleasure and interest to the members who were pregent.

Volume 52 of the Naturalist has been completed. The Coin-
mittee hopes to return to the high standard set hy Volume 50, as
regards size and illustrations; but this depends on an increase of
membership to dalance the extra cost. Miny papers of poplar
aid scientific interest appeared in the volume ani it is hopen that

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST Vou. bill Fuly, 1936
Plate VI

re
te by

fe
i)
4
“

A Brood of White-fronted Herons

N36. climual Repare Ry;

suitable papers and notes will be forthcoming from members and
others during the coming year.

The Fietorian Nateralist is the leading publication of its kind
in Australia, and it is the constant aim of the Editor to make i it even
more comprehensive and valuable. The demand for it from over-
seas is very gfatifying.

The Club has continued its activity in preserving the wild life
of Australia. Through ‘our members’ reports of vandalism and
breaches of protectiun Acts have been made to the Committee fron
time to time; these have been referred to the proper authorities
for action. Matters that have been inquired inte suchide :—Pratec-
tion of Rock Shelters, Park Preservation at Beaumaris, Proposed
Natiunal Parks, Railway Posters showing the Picking of Wald
Flowers ina Protected Arex, Alicnation of portion of Beaconsfield
Reserve, Reservation of Roadside near Kowat, Cutting of Trees
wl Hume Highway, Duck Shooting on West Melhanrne Swantp,,
The You Yangs as a National Park, The Boulevard through Stud-
fey Parle, ancl Vandalism at Macedon and Fliwers,

Dnting the year the Club made effurts to have the Kestrel and
Kites placed on the fully protected list. While net wholly success-
ful. we have the satisfaction of knowmg that now the Nankeen
Kestrel and ihe Black-shuuldered Kite are fully protected. The
question of Lictter protection of the birds of prey is still before the
Committee. Jt is hoped that the whole of the Metropolitan area
will be declared a sanctuary [ur bird life.

We report with satisfaction that the Rock Shelters at Langi
Jirhan and Vietoria Valley are now enclosed. The Cyclone Fene-
ing Company, the Forests Commission, the Anthropological Society
and the Field Naturalists’ Club have jointly borne the cost of this
important national work,

The Club still has three sub-committees in operation. they are
(a) Geological, (b) Park.Lands, and ¢c) Nature Reserves, In
conjunction they farmed the ‘National Montiments” movetnent
started at the May meeting of the Cluh at the Herbariuni Hall
We helieve this movement will have far- reaching effects, Numerous
societies have promised their closest co-operation, The Carmmit-
tee asks that members will advise it of any objects or places con-
sidered worthy of proclamation as “National Monuments,” should
the necessary legislation be obtained,

Cu-vperition with fandred societies has heen maintained, al-
though we regret to state that the League of Nature Lovers has,
through the ill-health of the Rev. George Cox, been forced to
dishand. We are represented on the Council of ihe League of
Youth, and will co-operate in their efforts to interest the youth of
Victoria in nature and civics.

The South Australian Naturalists’ Club, The North Queensland
Naturalists’ Club, the Queensland Naturalists’ Chip, the Rangers?

Va. Wat.
3k Aninil Report Vol. rat.

League of New South Wales. the Ararat Field Naturalists’ Club
and the Victorian Aboriginal Group have been assisted by the Club
at their annual shows,

The Victorian Advisory Council for Flora and Fauna, with our
Mr. C. Daley as Secretary, is still active and their Annual Report
shows much good work done; your Committee again voted £4/4/-
towards their expenses. ;

The Wild. Nature Show was again held this year and was opened
by Dr. RK. If, Priestley. ac, wa, Sc. Vice-Chancellor of the
University of Melbourne,

The St, Kilda Town Hall was engayed for three days, and a very
comprehensive show was staged, The atrendances were wor quiie
up to expectations, but a gratifying feature was that more than
26 secondary schools. sent classes of scholars to see the exhibits,
and most of them had questionnaires to answer, Ts shows that
particular efforts made to help such classes should be well worth
while in future shows, We must also endeavour te provide exhibits
of fresh interest, and avoid undue repetition, and thus maintain and
increase attendances,

The Memorial Plaque to Baron von Mueller has been erected
in a good position in the entrance hall of the Herbarium.

The Librarian reports that nunrerous books ahd pamphlets have
been bound during the year, a number af volumes and parts, includ-
ing the Chrowea Botanica, have been purchased, and averseas
exchanges have been requested from atl granted to China, Canada,
and the Union of Socialist Soviet Republics. The list of exchanges
has been reviewed: during the year various sets and parts of
foreign publications have been presented to the University, Royal
Society or Public Library, on the understanding that they be made
available to members as required, Another Nature Book, The
Shells of Port Phillip, by My, C, J. Gabriel, on the lines of the
“Fern Boals,” is ready for publication, and will he available to
members shortly. Actvance sales for this book are very satisfactory

During the year we have weleomed visitors [ram overseas and
interstate naturalists clubs, and we have also heen pleased to see
same of our own Country Menpbers fron: time to tinte.

On several occasions the Chih has arranged for exchanges er
correspondence between people interested in like subjeces; and
we record with pleasure that overseas naturalists have heen
interested atid that pleasure and profit to hoth sides js evident
through the Club's efforts,

Several wninor alterations to the Rules lave been effected by
special general mectings, the most important of these heing arranged
to allow the Naturalist ta he classed as a “Scientific Publication” for
postal purposes. This will save the Club a swbstantial ameime
The Club has to thank Mr. L. W. Cooper, Hou, Assistant Seere-
tary, for lis.efforts.in securing this concessinn,

isa] Anal Report “0

Grateful acknowledgnients also are amaile to the follwing here
factors '\—Cash donation, Mr. J. E. Dixon, the Shell Company for
the very fine display of Wild Flowers staged at the last Wild
Nature Show; xitts of books, Miss Raff, The vvgus Office,
Messrs, R, O'Neil, C. French, V. H, Miller, W. Hi. Nicholls: and
Mr, Bromby.

Thanks are also due to the Metbourne daily press for generous
assistance in bringing the Chib’s activities before the general
public, and also for the prominence they give to natural tistory
generally.

A comprehensive expression of thanks is extended to all) mem-
bers and friends of the Club who have given of their Wine and
energies toward the advancement of the Clul anrl its activetics.
Their reward Les in the knowledge that their efforts are of no little
National impertainec.

During the year 11 Ordinary Committee Meetings were held
and the attendances of officers was as fellows:—Messrs, G WN,
Hyani, W. 1. Ingram, V. H. Miller, L. W. Cooper, F, S, Calliver,
11, Dr. C. S. Sutton, Mr. J. Ingram, 10: Messrs. S. R. Mitehell.
Chas, Daley, H Jenkins, 9; Messrs. A. 5, Kenyon. J. W. Audas,
C. L, Barrett, 6; Mr, Geo, Coghill, 5; Mv, A. H, Chistiohn, 4

G. N. HYAM, President.
F, S, GOLLIVER, Hen, Secretary

EXCURSION TO SHERBROOKE FOREST

‘Swenty-eight members and visitors journeyed to Sherbrooke on May 16,
when fine weather ensured an enjovable eXcursiot. On arrival the party
brake up inte sections and penetrated the bush to the left of the main track
and soon several groups of Lyre-hirds’ inowunds were found, some with
recent scratchings. Shortly afterwards the birds themselves were observed,
one male displaying on a mound and treating his hearers Wo a fine repertoire
of mindery. The day's outing resulted in 27 additional species being added to
the lasi compiled for Sherbrooke Forest. The tote! new is 13 distinct species.
An interesting fied was a patch of Anunnite. of a species nol determined, but
resenibling Amanita siropiliformis, a highly-developed gilled form, with
perfectly shaped annulus etd volva. The additions fo the list already
published aré as follow :—

Amanita sp. (shining brown and acutely warted, hke small form of A,
strobtiformis}. Calocera caruea? (simple echubs}. Cencthirellas mfinedt:
bultforimis? Claveria ochraced-saloutcolar, Coryue sarcoides (red, gelatin-
ous Disromycete), Crepidatus subshaustellaris. Dacryormitra sp? Cyelloy,
gelatinous, pileate) Dasysevpha tachntoderma (small, woolly Diseonycete).
Dasvicvpha pteritophylla (minute, yellow cups an dead fern stems). Dasy-
scypha sp.? (1 mum. white, with glistening papillac}. Heletiuer citvinem,
Aypomrvces chrysospermms (golden, parasitic on Boleti}. Leprota parannu-
lola. Myccua sangninelenta, Mavena sndartara, Mycena lenerrtvia, Otideu
sp.? (superficial, white, and conterted), Plonrotus sub-applicutus (hoary,
grey, with gelaurious Javer atid ¢rinkled amargin). Iélyperus rhipidien.
Poria widniti para. Paria pincta, Psilneybe sub-eviginesa (blue sten)
Russia pechnata, Ruessulie evenoxantha? Sebactua werusians! Lvpliula
juucen (long clubs on leaves), Nylarte Iryporvlon Ceonidial form),

W., TT, aud 5.

40 Statement of Receipts and Expenditure bay pier
STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURE FOR
12 MONTHS ENDED 30th APRIL, 1936

RECEIPTS
Balance at Banks, lst May, 1935— .
State Savings Bank . boot wee om BZ OS
Less E. 8. & A. Bank Overdraft .. .- oe, ee 12.10 O
See £45017 2
Subscriptions—Arrears .. 1... .. .. £29 6 3
Current ,. .. .. ,. .. 205 18 3
In Advance .. w2 w. 2, IWS 6
~———_—. £245 16. 0
Wild Nature Exhibition Receipts .. .. .. -. .. 161 16 1
Cash Sales of— :
Victorian Naturalist . .. .. .. -. #514 0
Plant Cetsus .. 6. 2. 2. we ww ss) 600 8 OG
Fern Book, ete. 2. 6. oc i ee ee 2 16
Badges... -) -. ee pee eee ee Od
—_— 10 4 6
Advertisement in [tctorfan Naturelest 217 0
Donation .. .. 3100
Baron von Mueller “Fimd—amount ‘collected | to-
wards erection of Memorial Plaque .. .. .. 1611 3
interest Reccived—
Best Fund ., . pie th 7-4
Savings Bank Current ‘Accouit J 4h) #05 0
Commonwealth Loan .. .. .. 5, . 14 0 9
————— 23 0 9
———— 461 7 7?
1921 4 9
_ EXPENDITURE
Victorian: Naturalist—
Printing .. .. .. .- .2 0... 0- -. £162 17 6
Hiustratme 22 60 6 we oe 77 37
Despatching ». 0.6 22 6s ee ee 20 1 9
————._ #260 2 10
Wild Nature Eanihitioh Resppises eee op we 2 10GB
Reprints .. 6. 0: eg, a eh 43 6
Library .. -- Perret harjet bet wt panes teen 817 8
Postage and Freight dul foes 3) ete) wide 7 4.2
General Printing and Stationery G 0 8
Ponations—
Victorian Council of Fauna and
Piara (2 years) , ., #8 8 0
_Langi Ghitan Cave Protection .. 5 00 ie ee
Rents—Royal Society Matin £16, Conunittee
Room, #4 ,. ., : Serra rece: 20 0 9
Caretaker .. .. 110 0
General Expenses, Insurance, Bank Charges 779
Baran yon Mueller Plaque ., -. 2... uc ee ge 1717 0
Badges and Die 22 0. 2 ee i ey ee ee ts 8 410
461 6 1
Ralance at Banks, 30th April, aoe
State Savings Bank . ti oee ee £469 0 2
Lass E. S. & A. Bank Overdrafl 0. 2. ee 916

———_ 459 18 8
£921 4 9

fay Staten of Mecerpts and Expenditures 4)

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES QN ASSETS,
. doh APRIL, 1936
ASSETS
Arrears of Subscriptions, £90, estiniated lo realize, say ., .. £50 0 D
Wild Nature Show tackels unpaid. 6) ce i a 710
Bank Current Accounts—

State Savings Bank = 2 2 2... £469 Q 2
iese ES & A, Bank Overdrait .. S91
£459 18 B
State Savings Bank, Special Trust Account -. 1215 3
——— 1 4/2 ll
Tavestinents—
f. S,.& A. Bank Fixed Deposit... .. -. ., .. £9 0 0
Commonwealth Bonds .. 2. 0. 2... . . 350 0 4 ;
o—— == 400 0 0
Library aad Furniture, at insurance waluep ,2 2 2 ee, 4m) )
Epidiascope and stand, at valuation .. -. .- 22 2. oe ee 7 0 0
Stock on hand of—
Plant Census, at valuation : a. ; 417 2 0
Cluh Badges, at valuation .. 22 2. 22 2... 8 8 7
Fern Book, 1,622 at 1/14 ,, fies - o4 s FY
114 6 7
#),508 1 6
LIASLLITIES
Late Mr. Dudley Best Funel — -- _- wt en 450 0 0
Char-a-banc Fund .. ., - e-- E (eer 215 a
Special Trust Account oo. py SS unas Gacy oo 215 3
Subscriptions paid m advance 2 2)... y 22 82 oh oop 1011 4

Examined and found correct an Sth June, 1934,

AS. CHALK pon, auditors

A. G HOOKE 3 J. INGRAM, Hon, ‘Lreasurer,

THE WHIPSTICK SCRUB SIXTY-FIVE YEARS AGO

The Hon. Editor, Mictoriaw Natwrilist.

Sie—In a recent issue of The Naturalist I read with interest Mr J. W,
Audas’ article, “Through the Whipstick Serub.” I was well acquainted
with the Whipstick some 65 years ago. Our house was on the Eaglehawk
road above California Gully, and from ow’ back gate across the gullies it
was not more than a mile to the foot of Lighining ITill, where the mallee
gums slarted. A band of happy schoolboys, most of our Saturdays were
spent wanrlering over the hills among. the bush, collecting insects, watching
the birds, gathering gum, and all kinds of specimens. The engineer on the
Nelson Reet Mine made me an insect box which I still have.

_R. H. Nancarrow, who T think belonged to your Chib, had a leasc at
Neilborough, where he had a mine, and lived on the cdge of the Whipstick.
He fed all the wild birds, had half a dozen iagpies which knew their names
when he called them, painted the bush flowers, and knew the wild life of
the strib. He used to visit our house, and taught me tmuch busheraft,
Another of your members, the late William. Thorn, of the Lands Depart-
ment, was one of our band of bush boys; and another of iny boyhood friends,
Charles Daley, used to join us, or as he lived om the other side af Bendigo,
we used lo go with him up to One Tree Hill. Mr. Audas recalled many
old-time memories in bis account of the Whipstick scrub,

Waturre W. Froocatt,

42 Haru, Pawel Carriers vu at

FAUNAI. CORRIDORS
By Rosert Hate

Corridors may explain themselves, eg, by six areas —

1, An ant is discovered in mass amongst the top foliage of a
tree and again in the ground below that tree, but not in wew
between. On the main trunk there is a long, closed tube so that
the ants may travel up and down unseen in their corridor,

2. A fish may travel to the west and return to the east annually
as is indicated in corridor 5 of the mup.

3. A bird may regularly migrate north-south as implied m
corridor 9; of it may travel 1,00) mules in an oval; or, as a Lori-
keet, from forest to forest regularly as they flower ir. rotation.

4. Some marsupials journey along extensive valleys on their
annual change of feeding ground: while others have hillside
corridors fn dense serub,

5. A Nutmeg Pigeon, e.g., daily Mies across country in season
L.-W., independent of valley courses or land masses; it finatly
crosses an expanse of sea water to an island nest.

6. Man, as with the Kala custony of the several island groups
of S.E. New Guinea. is the western argonaut of the Bacife,
having definitely his corridor of the sea. Warring as they have
done for centuries amongst themselves these Papuans regularly
have one week off per year for peace; their corridor of peace.

Corridors greatly exist hy reason of winds and temperatures
and in the sea by floating meadows, Firstly, under no power is
the lowest organism of the meadow seen; then appear bacteria,
followed by diatoms, protozon aud micro-crustacean life: one acre
being proved to feet as much as J00 acresi of land meadow,

A corridor is the most fascinating and essential feeding-ground
tor life in the sea; and, Tam sorry to say, it is not free of tragedies,
ou a large scale. for many birds. These occur every few years
when the wind sets in Irom the east and keeping there, as it did
UWo years ago.

Briefly :—

Corvidor 1 passes round the Pole, containing the Snow Petre,
Exsperor Penguin, McCormick Skua Gull.

Corridor 2 js the snbantarctic ribhon where the Great Skua Gull,
Spectacled Petre], and King Penguin, follow its line.

Corndor 3. More familiar types. Has its Crested Penguin,
Short-tailed Petrel, and Richardson Skua Gull.

Comdor 4 branching for two sides of Australia has its minor
corridors at 4a and 4h, passing annually between certain istands
and devoted to the Humpback Whale. In the crescent of 23 the
Whiptail (Macrwrones)} comes up from the south and the Arripis
lavdha comes down from the north, though just touching its convex
face in force.

rd Han., Fannal Corridars 43

Corridor 5 is fish anc mollusca terminating as slowt: m the map.
At 5a the worn away ov subsided neck divided the mollascau world
of the west from that of the east. The resulting Bass Strait is now
a three trunk centre of remarkable interest, where over 100,000,000
Peteels once ested, and where the harracouta, etc., daily ate some
35,000,000 young meinbers of the herring family as they came im
from corridor & and later.

Corridor 6 is the fong, conlinuous outpost of 7, from which it
Has drawn its supply of Inrds, and at Ga made a great effort to
change the colour of their clothes before passing then om lo ghe
farther west; 6a ancl 5p, though with an entirely different ecology,
seem to have some common environment of great age Six is one
half of the great trunk corridor in the south, heing parallel with
the northern greal hal€ with bieds. Corndors 11 and 5 with fish
bear ta each other in disposition but not im species,

Carridors 7, 9, 12, & correspond in their distnbution of birds
and fish; 9a and 12b of 12 are ministered to by different actions
of the S.E, trade wind, 9a vetting its full share of moisture, while
the dividing range keeps 12b dry, with the Gulf farmed for eight
months off a tong. dry sandstone range, and is bottom resultmg
from a sand detritiis, This two carridor (9-10) parallelism tor
1,000 miles has produced some likeness af home life amongst them-
selves with a difference m1 other corndors, Fig birds travel through
the mid foliage; chetedonms through the nd coral,

Cortdor JZ is an example of the uceanic type where we fined
the swordfish coming south outside the Great Harrier Reef and
passing to the continental coast through the numberless Swain
reefs.

Corridor 74 ts freshwater wm which Ofigorus awils. Over Ute
Tange at the head of the Darling, a second fish of this family lrves
in the sea for 1,000 miles within the Great Barrier Reef; and what
different hves they lead. Amongst insects the native bee has nn
corridor west of 14. Owls by night in a clrought use this corridor
when the mouse plague has again appeared. The Masked Swallow
uses tt by day when following south the grasshopper plague cor-
ing as it does from Queensland into Victoria cach few years; say
front Bourke to Bendigo. The Derweut River corridar is con-
spicunus with galaxies, Last season one canner bought 24 tons
of them as whitebait, being Iry, Most of us know the Cucumber
Herring of the Yarra corridor; all our rivers being seasonal corri-
dors for breeding purposes by those species so inclined in the main
trunk corridors; others being purely anadtomous.

Tt tnay be seen that the north west has two great trunk corridors,
1] and 12, the first devoted to fish and the second to lirds. There
are several freshwater fish with their lateral corridors and a few
sea birds with theirs. The land and water of Ia are different

C Vic. Now
4 Hate, Fanial Corridors Vol Lit.

to the land and water of 12a and there isa distinct range in colours
between then. “The Dampier cttrrent goes farther south than the
moist air of the corridor 12 and gives the Abrollos Islands a
tropical effect in a temperate teriinnal corridor, Area lla is a
desert above high water mark. looking like a subiner'ged desert

15

4

oe nO ee

Map Ueustraling Faunal Corridors

tén imiles out at low water mark, The valuable large prawn has
a corridor here so there must be plenty to eai. The toothless
humphack whales find a rich plankton off the Lacepede Islands,
their northery terininus, In the northern territory of 12 the hawks
keep their chess-board corridors of the air working collectively
all the year, while the duck fannly of the same area moves to its
distant supplemental, corridor which contains fresh) water,

The fish terminal of § in S.W. Australia has its other terminal

aa How, Fanvel Corvitars 45

in 23 and Vass Strait in particular, Area 23 Te a combination of
2, 3 and 8, the 3 being represented in its most eastern crass wartt
current, & by the hloek of a north-south anchovy Stream, The
fixed and wisiting Penguing atid Petrels visit southern Tusmama.
Of the fish census in 23 it is quite possible it will be extended by
20 per cent. with a tendency to Antarctic origin by an extmet
carridos, Maciocystis of corridor 2 in 23 is the prospect of an
interesting water world bred of the subantarctic in (he plankton
range.

In the cold water current of 23, noted by its subantaretic mol-
lugea, there has recently been a tragedy of the plankton. It sank,
due ta the wrong weather, and the Short-railed Petrel, having
nathing to eat, died all round the coast. It was also a great
inconvenience fo the barracouta, which does not want to stay more
meniths than usual in deep water. Tn the present season Melbourne
is shart of fish because the fishermen. cannot catch inshore. The
fish are: probably on the outskirts of the continental sheli, with the
plankton halfway down at (5 fathoms, A knowledge of the bathie
corridors ot the perch (Daciwlopagivs) would be welcome. The
D'Entrecasteauxe Channel of Tasmania is 60 miles long and it is
usual for plankton to ue ihis carridar, with tlic barracouta follow-
ing it, during Decernber-April, going S.W. Tis vear che pliatkton
colour acheme of the channel, with the waste praduct oil, has been
much subdued and accordingly the fish of our tables. This corri-
dor js now to Jel (May) while the adjacent warmer coast ts
renanted with barracouta,

To explare, eg, the southern half of corridor %, i5 to see the
swarming of the muliet (Msxgif debula) as aduits going north.
On the south coast of New South Wales only there is u corridor
joiniiig and being absorbed in the Bass Strait, the yeliow-cyed
mullet (A_ forster:). In ihe continuation of this corridar at 10
there are several tropical mullets. Some fish, as the flat-tailed
tulle (gettrdt), cegularly ga into the continent and come out,
thus making an internal corridor or series of thei of great econcinic
value, The Australian Salmon (dreapis) bas its corridor contained
in 8S and 5; the unusual.

As hirds of 7 in the countless Irnvcaltt pass north in April, so do
the fish (herring family) hurrying out of their rivers pass north.
There are nrany lanes leading into both 7 and 8, the corridor main
roads, and Austraba is scarcely mapped. A knowledge of surface-
fish corridors is got by our experience of floating nicadows, more
or less the result of winds and teriperatute, Without a trinoniial
system how cat) we do justice to Australian distribution of its
animals. In the great Pacific bordering us we know that the
swordfish has its taany roads, but how little do we yoke up the
colour schemes with the economic cortidors. Japan is now prob-
ably doing fine work tm mapping what T would call her fish
Janes and corridors.

a ¢ Vie. Noa,
4G Hany, Fam! Corritors Vol. wT,

The Indo-Pacific corridor 15 is well represented by Australian
Rslies of the west coast of India, while in ancient days our fish
passed theougl the open Panama itn che Atlantic,

We know that che great interior, 16, of Australia has marked
its lirds witht rufous, het we do not know the stamping of its many
floral Janes oc byways. On the approach of devastating droughts
different birds spread rythmically along their stress corridors mto
better lands, (Land corridors of the more highly developed animals
are cut across hy river corridors and fish, with birds, e.g,, are Our
la do a compensating duty in a full economy, Where there is a
irapical forest on shore there is a tropical forest at sea, where
there is the desertlookinug land there is the desert-lookiny: sea
Both popailatians have points of utdity and beauty interest, The
sea aud lawd corridors alt round this island continent are spaced
to work in wath the econeiny of each other and the abstract some-
thing that appears greater Shan. and bolt in, our eoonuiny and our
structure. In Bass Strait, eg., we have the so-called filterahle
vinases, the primeval units of tite, The histancal character of the
smallest plankton in any corridor because of many invisible origins
mm the ocean is more than interesting, but it is too far away hack
fram the ceoncmics that ace touching and appealing ta us. Even
the adventure of ideas seems too far forward to mect the necessity
of the present with its research into the workshops of undescrikhed
corridors,

Throughout the net of minor eortiders on fand junctioning with
those of the sea, not yet appreciated, there stands conspicuousty
ile brauching syste of the major one of the Limicafine birds.
Well may we wonder why they annnally go to Siberia. Has it
much or nothing te do with an Austra-Agiatic plan of tivtrition
existing many centuries ago? Does the endocrine system demand
i periodic change of diet that cannot be got in any one content
any more than ihe passerine birds of sinaller corridors can live
their winter where they spend their summer? Interrelationships
are changeable on defined Sines.

Coastal yalleys haye much to unfold te Ws just as the 100 fathom
hne has hidden vallevs doing intricate work, So does the great
internal calese Australia, by using its corridors, deliver to the sea
us lime tm return for jhe essential iodine that a medicinally
starved Australia needs for peaceful cu-operition of a people as
well as for the robust heaith of a group of lower annals. Tf, eg,,
100,000 Carmurants bring in daily an iodine contribution from
1,000,000 fish, it if not wasted on a land nveding it, to retail to
plants growing healthily,

Followng this trend of thought it might appear that the
30,000,000 birds of the Sandpiper family go Lo the tundras to get
the essential foods that the coasts of the southern hemisphere cannot
supply. Corridors, truly, might well be interesting’ felds of
research by the bio-chemist in animal nutrition welfare.

hd Fields for Naturalists 47

FIELDS FOR NATURALISTS

Prestdential elddress by Mir. GQ. N. Hyane given at the Annual
Meeting, June, 1936

Last year we revived a custont which for many years previnusly
had heen allowed to lapse, that of the Presidential Address. This
is a feature that should, as far as possible, be continued. After a
period as President, the member retiring from that office should
have obtained such impressions of the Club and its work as to be
able to offer suggestions four the future. Furthermore, it gives an
annual opportunity of considering whether the Club ts living up
to the ideals of its founders of fifty-six years ago and whether it is
meeting the ever changing: conditions of modern life.

Tn seeking some inspiration for the subject of this address, I read
the Whole of the Annual Reports and Presidential Addresses as
published in the Vaturadist. The messages conveyed in those
addresses are applicable to-day. It is worthy of record that
addresses were given every year from 1884 to 1891 without a break,
Then there was a lapse until 1902, when they were given until 1910,
They lapsed until 1920 and continued until 1924, when they lapsed
again until last vear. The changing: conditions of social hfe must
necessarily affect both the Club and its members in their pursuit
of natural history as the years go by, Nature itself is by na means
static, however it may appear so in relation to the normal span of
a single human life. It is these altered fields that I propose to
review,

The original objects of the Club remain unchanged: To provide
a meeting place for a body of people interested in Natural Science,
to help one another to study what lies around them. The Club
does provide a meeting place where the expert and tyra cai come
tozether for their mutual protit and pleasure, and also provides
facilities for the interchange of ideas amongst those interested tn
different branches. The Rev. J. J. Halley, in his address in 1885,
said that the Club “clomesticated science’ and in that way had
justified tts then short existence. Past presidents have stressed
the fact that the major portion of the Club's activities and work
must lie in the fiekl, and that members should observe for them-
selves. The late Dr, PT. S. Hall. in 1902, said that “papers given to
the Club should be introductory and explanatory and should
assume no previotts knowledge of the subject on the part of
hearers.” Prof. Ewart, in 1910, said that “The Club represented
a ‘Back to Nature’ movement in science, which could be profitably
jomed by many laboratury workers, who, when in the field, could
hardly distinguish a erncodile frouy an earthwornt.”

To these objects present members can not raise any material
objections and our present need is to adapt them to present-day
conditions. The early days of the Club were necessarily a period of

Vie. Nat
Vol, LIL.

Mtr. G, N, Flyam.
President, Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria, 1935-36.

ie Melis fac Nalnrulisis 9

cuscovery aud classification, a work which to-day is approachin
completion, Systematic ronenclature and morphology always wi
have an aiuportant place, lot hr modern tines it is Netessarily a
dunclion of professional seientists and of iustitutions such as the
uulliversities, musennts and national herhariums rather chan the
indepelident amiatein’ warker. Large collections of type specimens,
hiterature and laboratory lactiities are necessary for the proper puy-
suit of this work, ‘This obviously poiuts to the fact rhat the dav of
individual collections is passing and that material, particvlarly of
new species, should be in the hands of some suitable mustitution for
the benefit of any workers at any time, The corollary of this is
that the mere gathering of a heterogenears collection of speciinens
in the field, ar reenrding in a more or fess casual way of specimens
seen, isa rather useless pursuit for members

The keynote for field uaturalists should be observation. We
badly lack the knowledge of life Instories of almtost all of the
species of ovr ich flora and fauna, As an example of this great
field for natucalists, let me instance the work recently done on the
Jife history of the Lyre-bird by Tregallas, Littlejohns and others;
the Platypus by Eadie and Burrell; on vative bees by Raytnent;
an pollenization by Mrs. Coleman. None of these workers would,
! think, lay claim to great academic distinction. but their work
will probably live jor all Gine, The sole vequisile for this class of
work as the ability to paticntly observe and accurately vecard.

Then there is the study of ecology—the relationship of a species
to its habitat, to its physiographic, climatic and soil conditions: its
relationship to other species or even relationship of fauna to flora.
In botanical ecolagy +t resolves itself into a study of vegetation
rather than a mere section of the flora. It will embrace the ebb
and flow of a vegetation in relation to the constantly changing
forest vover, cleurings, erosion or other factors ‘of environment,
including the operations of “man the destroyer.” Lt can be studied
on the basis of a square yard, a square mile, a county, state or
commonwealth, and again its major requisite 1s patient observation
aud accurate recording, conpled with the ail afforded by the
systemabe botanists, physiographiers, geologists, zoologists, in our
various institutions in arriving at Anal eonchusions.

Here is an almost untouched field so far as members of the Club
are concerned, and it has the additional advantage of introducing
workers tn aay ane fiek] to the prohlems of workers in other
fields, ancl thns avoid the evils of over-speaalization. Ecological
wurk can alse be approached fra any aspect, botanical, zoological,
physiographieal or geological. Lt can be carried ow as an intense
study or merely as casual observations. I would refer interested
menbers ta ‘fansley's books in our library for more details and
where they will find enconragement fron tecords of really useful
work by hoy scouts and school boys in ecological work,

sa Frehts jor Naturatists ic tn j

For those who have a liking for specialized work let me suggest
the patient observation of the Jife history of a species or genus,
whether at be of Alora or fauna. Por others who like to ream let
us haye preluninary surveys of district flora aud fauna aid let each
member endeavour to obtain at feast one co-operator nr disciple.
To all workers, 1 sav, let vour fellow-nembers know the results
of your work by exhibits, nature notes and papers, Other stucies
and interests that oceur to me that can be well wndertaken hy any
of our members, whatever their previous knowledge may he, are
marine bidlogy, particularly of Port Phillip aud the nearer coasts:
the study of freshwater sponges aud freshwater hfe yeperally ;
mosses and lichens, the photozraphic recard of our Hora, the
changing of our land surfaces, the invasions of intrarnced Alora, atl
of which have beer neglected, There is also the science of Pheno-
logy, or Rural Biology; this, like ecology, requires patient abserva-
tion and consists m the recording of various phases af life, pavyticu-
larly i relation to seasonal and meteorological conditions. The
value 1s in the average coupartson uf such records over a term of
years, in arriving at penodicity in natural phenomena, such as
Howering periods, bird nugration. influence of clunate on growth,
and many other Jactors.

These are suggestions for individual menibers. Let me conclude
with some remarks on the work of the Club asa whole. We can,
I think, take courage from the obvious fact that the Club has
justified its fifty-six years existence and that we are working more
or Jess on the fines laid dawn by the founders. I think that for
the future the Club has even mure valuable work to perform for
tae community. it is chvious to everyone that we are beconnng
more and more standardized and mechamzed, not only in material
matters but also in aesthetic und mental ontlook. The one anti+
dote to this Urat [ see is more contact with nature—preferably wild
and untamed mature, to counteract tis lopsided development.
Merely fying avoulid the countryside on motor trips, the week-
ending at guest houses, with its attendant orgamzed games, will
not provide ilis, but a matelizent mterest in nature will, and this
is what the Club provides fur Our excursions should be tstrac-
tive and not merely picnics, and 1 appeal to aur more expert
meinhers to inake them so,

We have also much work ahead of us in the protection of our
flora and fauna and the provision. of more national parks where
nan cat regain his lose birthright. We must fight the undue
“improvement” of these aid Alching of thei for gol courses and
the ike We must see that due protection and appreciation is
given of what we call “national monuments” and educate the public
to appreciate then. We must endeavour tu enrol all persons who
think: ow sinsilar Vines, and thos ineréase our weight in the com-
munity. [ would like to see the Club undertake expeditions into

mie! Haray. Noles on Same City and Suburian tirds st

various districts For the purpose of sutveying the natural flora and
fauia aiid to pilbliah the results of such survey, In the year L8vl
alone parties of Club members visited the Kent Group of Islands,
the Upper Yarra, and Mt. Wellington district, and their records
are still valuable. There was also a camp-ont at Mornington in
conjunction with the Education Department, where definite insti'ac-
tion in fell work was given by variois expert menthers over a
period of one week. This seems lo Ine to be worthy of reperition,
Wher one peruses the fifty-two volumes of the Niluvals! one can-
not but be proud of the past activities of the Club, and this as tem-
pered by the thought that possibly the nest Afty-two will mot
be sa notable. On further cousideration, in view of the immense
amount of work still to be done and constantly changing conditions
bringing up fresh problems the encourage view is that the Club
cau be still greater W ic does not like so qnany soctetics do, rest,
on its past greatness, without much attempt to break inte fresh
pastures—or should I say ‘‘Fresh fields ior Naturalists.”

NOTES ON SOME CITY AND SUBURBAN BIRDS
By A. D. Haror

The adaptability of several alien species which have hecoine naturalized
has led to the retreat of native species, most markedly perhaps in the case
of the parrots, the Rosella and Crimson Rosella having largely yielded ta she
Indian Minal) and the Starhpg, which have usarped their esting places ati
old gum trees, Persans bent on park and garden improvement often shaw
lack of perspective which may become apparent when too late fo effect 2
remedy. The removal of old piuims from natural woodland parks is 4 dase |)
point. Nat only the trees are removed. but also the birds which rely an
them for nesting hollows.

The Town Plausing Association of Victaria is alive to the situation, "The
replacement of Eucalypts by deciduows irees and palms is apparentiy tie
objective af the Parks and Gardens Committoe, and ihe citizens of de
future wil therefore have to attune their ears and accustom their eyes to
the notes and forms of the Sparrow, Starling, Minah and Blackhird, where
their fathers knew the Magpie, the Willy Wagiail, the Harmonious Thrush
and the Yellow Robin.” A similer wanting is voiced at times hy other
Associations and seems lo be generally recognized az well iounded. Withorit
doubt, however, much good is done in the tnetropolitan area by ihe scaveng-
joe Minan, by the Sparrow in gutter and gardet, and hy the insectivorous
Starling and Blackbird.

To say harsh things about these lawn-improvers would savour o] ingrati-
lude on my part, sa J leave it to the archardist. IJ have seen sore Ane
examples of conmmunity ititerest displayed by these aliens. Here 12 one
of ‘three species working in harmony. From 2 hotel window at Scarsdale
J watched a vacant allotment adjoining, used asa gtass paddock. A flock
of birds descended al one etd and innnechately hegan an advanee Wl itregolar
iront formation. towards the other end, about seventy-five vards away.
There wert ahout twenty Minahs, twenty Stacliugs; and a dozen Sparraws.
Fhe Minahs and Starkings overturned the insect harbouring cow inanure,
chips, ete. the larger birds devoyred grubs and the like, and the Sparrows ot
their gleainng accounted for smuch small vermin, At the end nf the
paddock: the birds rose “el masse," whirled in a quarter drele, and flew off
in a straight course to another paddock, As the size of the Aock spparenily

U
42 Maxpy, Noler oa Savte Cy mid Subswban Binds Vics aut

Jessencd the Minahs asd Starlings became ondistinguichable from. ove
another, but the little dats were the Sparrows, .

Next morniagz at almost precisély the same time they again alrived,
dwergs) cwenty and ten, and qethodiealiy swept the Acld as belare, fut,
because of the pour catch, occupying about half che time, In the evening
T saw a flock in Aight, but distant, and counted forty large dota and ten
Vittle dotsethe sparrows; evitlently the sane community. Abens and
“nests, but doing work of value to the State, Avid the Parrots Chat have
been largely evicted from the suburban area? Can they present a clean
sheets? No! For of succulent fruits in the orchard and the seers af the
Eucalypts the Parrots take cotisiderable toll.

During the past few wecks somse Crimcon Rosellas have visited my garden
snd have Intten mest of the flowers jrom a tail gum tree, The damaved
flowers on the ground had immature pollew ad no sige of necrar. so T
concluiled that they had been destroved in w spirit af mischief This sport
of Parrots is fot resented, for the tree {£ucafyptis platypus yar, hetyras

ilo) hezrs axillary umbels of dark crimson flowers too far back os the
france tu pravide for table decoration, and so hiph on the tree as ta be
ar wut of peach, So if the rich, red coop of Cratneque sorrqlain berries and
a percentage af the strawherries are for ure Blackbirds, surely the Eup te.
flowers Way be enjoyed by the Parrots| There would he less conplaisance
if the crimson und blue beanties were to sinylarly destroy the blooms of the
Scarlet-fowering Gum (&. ficifetial, but that species they da wot visi.
Tt looms an Sinimer, as the Wattle-bitds are well aiway'e, the Parrots
come chiefiy in antumne ’

It js in autumn, toc, that Honeyeaters are attracted ‘by an early howering
Protea, but | have not seen a bird amiciate the season by one day. The
large, junk chalices way be open but veelectced until? che feast is spreacl,
The first sign of nectar ssvchroiizes with the appearance of the guests.
A table attractively “laid! but Jacking food is af na use ta hunery visitors.

“The Crimsou Rosellas are Irss shy chan their aceasionatly scten allies.
They come down fray the tall gen to the low branches of Vhe Jocoreprdis
and in friendly manger remzin long, just beyond arm length, rhattering ina
latwruage of which | regret there is no interpretation. [i there is a prettier
combination than Crimson Rosella attd (ne feathéry, salt greet foliage of
a Jovaramta I should like ta sec it, But when ¢harineed ly the picture T am
troubled with recollection of iny wife's aviary of pre-war days. Therein
were about thirty Parrots, including Psoplotas frecuraliniodny, which vested
under a rock in the sandy floor and reared three young,

Inthe antinin, sometimes Rasellas, bat regularly the Crimsow Rosellas, are
to be seen in the decidijous wees af dhe Treasury Gardens. The jailer are
probably these which have nested ip the city—in the noisily-thyobhiny heart
of the city; once aa ‘ft well of the Myer Emporium, apd in other places.

Miss Cynthia Teague tod me that in a hole in the niasonzy of a wall
apposite the window of = fourtit aor roont where she was engared in archi-
tectural work, & pair of Kookaburras found a nesting place: but In the
follving season these Were jorestalled by a pair af Conysan Roseltas. The
building is of Little Collins Street and the sitdatiers an ideal one for
Minahs or Starlings (city dwellers) yet strangely weoueh jound aud oceu-
qicd by native, focest birds.

Sometimes when engaged ii $tallar observanans T have had oceasiony to
flash a torcl-lght to read an angle and the flash nas frequently dis-
turhed a niche hirel which then floated past me with <wift. noiseless motion;
loo ghostly lo be identified, Te was prohshiy the Tawhy-shoulderad Frog-
smouth, whichis frequently seen and heard in this localiy. T have erown
to Ike dts movatenous call, whith i maiutain is not ““Oom Gon" (Leach)
or "Hoo Hoo" (several authorities), but an anproximation ta ‘Mor-Pork”
rather thai toa the Cockney and Australian sound "Mauw Paw?! made when
requesting More swine fech, sonething between the wo. So that there

fy Manny, Alater an Sone Sty aid Suburban Birads os

may lie na doule a5 ta what 1 have seen perched within a jew yards of ime,
and heard ublering is ery at (ilervals average 1) seconds (by stop wateh)
over a penod wf hall an hour or more. ? ca best describe it as a bird of
dark lumage, almost black in silhowette, with beak, body and tail iw align-
met, forniue with the htanck an angle pi about 25 dewrees aud resethbling
vothing so much as a bit of foose bark, Whe dir that cries “Flaw Five"
{various authorities) can he heard oso ful ts usually at a Lonsiderable
Wis tance

Tilo wot know whether pectar-eaunge birds avoid fowers where maine bees
ate coliecting {other than the Beo-caler anc Woorl-Swallow) but T think
ihat there is some recopnition of spheres influence as a geneeal rule, Wher
lunds aud bees are seelsmie nectar or pollen from the same bloome the birds
fire early 2) work aie! (he bees much later; the seeretian i continued and
there is food for al,

A fatal Waser was made by 2 Mopuke jn a garden at Kew some vears
ago. Jt was & dave bird which during the day usually perches! against
an upright stuap, but whieh had become secustamed zu the davlighe. Irs
food was butcher meat, ice aml garden pests. One uet too sory flay i
gumpled a bee and found it to be guod, then anoties, amd some nwre, yradli-
ally opproaching the source of supply—tie hive—and there, tay neiehhowr
iiormed nue the bird discovered that by tapping with its beak a quicker
issue of bees was obtamed, bot the calamity lay wi the siocess; presenciy
the bees poured! out m arcade uunibers and stung the bird fo death,

Among our wild domestics of domesticated wildlings oré Tlackhinds and
Thrushes. These are iuvariably in clase attemlance during gardening
operations. sa wager are they 4o hely. Greatly daring they come within
pk few yards af the feeding cat, which, because white and incapable of
camouflage cau he easily walebed until, satisfied, he withdraws for the
"glesta”’ whlelt may be enjoyed clase by. Then a Thrush pounres on the rem-
havits, whieh mtay he a hed or a litle milk in a saucer, The Thrusiies
here are very loud of milk and have grown rather careless. Once in a
while tlic cat is not sleeping soundly = then there may he a Thrush the Jess.

Li is Protea wieitfera whieh attracts Me White-pliine® Hoeveater (ar
“Greenie’ or “Ringneck" as Melifieua peofeiiata is vartousty called),
and when the Crinton Hotelebrush, Calletenmn ladcevlatus is io blocen
this Honeyeater is againan tie scene. Both the large and the small Tioney,
caters change their slict with Une season, The Wattle-lirds which ied their
two youn enes in the Searlet-flawecmg Gum eleared my rage bushes of
aphis for their ualirishiicn, and the Ringnecks areas Soil af these garden
pesls as of neclan

One puzzling thine ty die uncanseious loneliness cf birds Ti eapryity ~The
Ceckatno and Parror seem quite hapyly and contented wirl) human eeimyany
doth whrie caged or free to roa likleed two oi the sane sex—ol erher
sox—inay fight when newly introduced, byt so, too, will jossonas, A
few years ago atv tlaughter, gurry tor the loneliness of a gentle female
Ringtai which tad lost its sate, presented ‘tf to & friend who also had a
lonely Female, The “host! attacked the guest immediately al within a few
lrours. had killed ir before the owner was aware of whar was happening
But a an aviary of Parrots coitasning more than twenty birds (more than
it species) the wast bellicose was a cock Crimson Rosella, He was ihe
luiliv, and a anuuderans one. An occasional dearl tard ou ie sandy Alo
hore witness to ubservéed ultacks, which were mide chiefly HW) We early
Aucunee mornings, The mnrtered tint in several cases badd Joe Wornes aid
¢knll broxen amd part of the brain missing. Cannibalisni DL elecirfed, brit
never cault whe bied it the avt. Badgerivars have Initten off the toes ail
Canaries, bul nut to eat, and Cockaloos aid Parrots are ford of a chophone.
Vie New Zealanil ea Tikes fresh fat dram the living aomal. Soll, with
the possibihty of a rat havieys tatled the dead Parrot. the murder chore
remains, bul an pen verdict stunds reapuehnyg. Ue cannibalisn. The gids
evideice— ot on oath—was that of a eb! whe. sail be say the Crimean
Rosella picking at the dead bird.

t Vie. Nab
&4 AHS. Laras Wot. Tall.

A. H. 5. LUCAS

In the death of Professor A. H. 5. Lucas, at the mpe age of
43 vears, the Cul has sustained the Juss of one af the must is
lingiished scientists ever connected with its history,

Arthor Henry Shakespeare Lucas was born at Stratford-m-
Avon, England. m 1354. His father was the Rey. Samuel Lneas,
r@8., from whan the son inherited ins taste for scholarly pursitnts.
Nis early education was al New Kingswood School, Bath, ‘hence
he proceeded to Oxford University. where he was an exhibitinner
al Balliol College. The young student, working diligently, gained
the degree of Masi¢r of Arts at Oxford, and that of Bachelor of
Science at London. Crmiing to Melbourne in 1883, he was en-
gaged as teacher for senior classes in the subjects of Science and
Mathematics at Wesley College, and not long afier was also lee«
turer mn Natural Serence at Vrinity, Ormond, and Oueen’s Colleyes.

Tarly in 1893, on appointment as Headmaster to Newington
College, in Sydney, Mr, Litas left Melhourne ta take np lis new
‘luties. which he capably performed anti 1898, when he accepterl
the position of Mathematics and Serence teacher. snd became
Headwaster of Syilney Griunmar School, He alse was appointed
lecturer in Physiography at the Sydney Liniversitv. He retired
from his lang and successful edycational career in 1923: dun later
aerepled appomeneat as: Prafessor of Mathematics at the Tas-
nanan Loiversity. where he remamed two years.

The clase connection of Professor Lheas with the Tield
Nattiralists’ Club was in the first period of its existence, eoin-
mencing with his arrival in Victoria m 1883. In the following
year he became the first editor of Me Mictarion Naturalist, which
position he Alfed unul hes departure wo Sydney am December, 1892.
In 1884 he contributed the first of severn) excellent papers te the
Club, enfitled, “Common Objects of the Seashore,” a sphere of
nature study in which he was must proficient. [Elected as Presi-
dent. 1387-9, he gave two helpful and thoughtful Presidenttal
addresses. In the year 1891, with his fellow-scientists, Dr. A.W.
Howitt, and Professor A, Dendy, he visited the little-knawn peak
of Mt. Wellington, im Gippshine, with its hidden lake or rarn,
‘Tali Kiarng, the various theories advanced for its origi being
well considered. On departure to Sydyev the Club members. in
drateful recopnition of faithful service, loyally and unselfishly
rendered for nine years. made a presentation to The Natwrelrst’s
fret editor, and eleeied him as an honorary member of the Club.

From time to time through the intervening years, a5 opportunity
served, Prof. Laucas was glad to revisit the Club, and he occasionally
contributed a scientific paper to The Natiralst. the last hang on a
‘Wwmarkable Austraban seaweed, which he called “An Ocean
over!

Boil asa educationist anda sctentist Professar Jancis was im the:

i

ae Pesourt, Plontiny Ansivahan ‘fvers 7

on
i

foremost tanis. His interest and enthusiasm in Natural Science
covered a wide range of subjects, and he was an indefabgable
field worker ard collector. Tn New Sauth Wales he was Curator
of Algae at the Botanical Gardens, being rightly considered the
mast competent authority ty Austraha upon that subject, his
ardent desive, which he did much tu achieve, being, to collect speci-
mens of every species of seaweed on the Australian seacoast. In
the sehjects of Zoology and Botany the keen scientist carried out
wich usetul research,

Having a passion for science, Professor Iawas qetively supported
al] societies cugaged in fostering its pursuit, hus he was Presi-
dent of the Linnear Society, 1907-9, and on its Council up to his
death, We was also on the Council ot the Australnin and New
Zealanil Association for the Advancement of Science, and on
the Council of the Royal Society (N-S.W.d. dsr the Field Natur-
alists Club of Syduey he was a useful meinber of committec, and
int a term occupied the Presidential chair, He contributed many
papers and lectures on screntihe subjects to societies and institu-
tigns. With (us close frien, Professur Dendy, he published same
years agu a popular standard work, used widely in schouls of the
States, Intraduction ta Botawy. Then, with the late Mr. Dudley
le Soyef, he issued The Anintaly of -brsiralie. follawed ly The
Bards of Australie, both adding to the Inowledge of the natural
history of wur fauna.

Professor Lucas travelled a vood deal, and was a capable Jinguist,
He was an excellent and sympathetic (eacher, immodest and some-
what reserved. but kindly and helpful, never wearying. in the
purswit of dissemmatioy of knowledge, and commanding the full
respert and esteem of Ins many co-workers and fricnds. For four
nwoths before his decease he had with untiving zest been engaged
gn research work in Victoria and Tasmania. While recumming ty
his hone at Sydney, he became illat Albury, aud died in the local
hospital, his funeral tu the Northern Suburhs Crematorium, Syd-
ney, being attended by a numerous concourse o7 people wha knew
his worth and honoured his memory, He left a family of three
dauetiters—Mesdamean Cortis Jones, |. J. O'Keele, and Miss C,
Lucas. 5

C. Darry.

AN URGE FOR PLANTING AUSTRALIAN TREES
By Enwarn ]t, Prscorr

T met a frivud recently who had just paid a visit ta Mount
Arapiles. He was very much perturbed al tlie presence of a
Aorishing voung specimen of Prams teogies aight io iront of
the mount, “tf there were ever auythiiy more wut of place—any-
thing more of an anachronisin, i¢ is this pine tree,"” he said -
then he added, ''T wished J had brought a tomahawk with me,”

+. . . . ees ig. t,
AG Prscorr. Plain austeatan Trees Mis an

There are hundreds of suitable Auacralian trees waiting for theiy
rightful heritage. which is as yer denied them The time is ripe
for the Field Naturalists’ Clab of Victoria to cer upon a vigarous
campaien for the preservation and planting of otir own trees. Jam
afraid thar the race nf champions af Australian trees has been
iollawed by a race of men who advocate the cause of imported trees.

If anyone has the opportunity. let him take a walk along the
Varra from the bnatsheds to the Andersow Street’ Bridge The
long row of graceful and beautiful trees of Lirealyptnus radiata, the
River White Gum. will surely convince then) that here is a tree
siitable to any'situation. [f the walk be continued back wlany the
Avenue to the gate of the Botanic Gardens, leadiny from the King's
Domain. the three magnificent parent irces wf these younger -unes
will be seen, in all ther drooping lovelitess.

let U3 go back over the river and coming towards the City, and
halting at Batman's monument, and note the two fine vigorous
specimens of the Spottel Gum. Eucalyptus nieulaia Anovher
fine old specimen of this species ts geowiny in the Geelong Isotanin
Gardens. Beautiful in halnt and foliage, andl wonderful in bark
colouration 1 the Spotted Gan,

Let us now ga to the Australian horder ani note that tree,
common in Queensland, and very rare in cultivation. [dinars
the Australian Ash, The large, hole pinnate tole. and the strung
upnight babit af Uae tree, make dk a tree of distinction for chloe
apy where.

Now let us yet out to Canterbury and, leaving the stacion on the
worth side, walk towards the street, Just belaw dhe electricity
station on the left stdu is a beaulitd and compael specimen at
that very rare tree of Inglewood, tie “Tronbark Box.” The eqm-
mor tame is unfeattanates One Commie Ths Spees rise:
would have been hetter. | refer to Eucalypins Blackburiuuia. It isa
leny-growing gum, very shapely in habit, and compacr erowinys,
quite equal to any shapely tree thar can be seen anywhere, 1 only
know of two of these trees —the other i in the kiehinond Parks.
new the Curators residence.

Close to this tree is a fine sample of the red-fiawered Ironbark,
with deep coloured fawera, Eucolyplus fencorylon rose Aviother
sittilar (ree is in the Camberwell gardens. ‘These wees, hesides
bein very shapely, give the richesr of reel Aowers | have ever
seen, o1 this wurtety,

Pillosporuin widalatwu, the east Gippsland species, ney he seen
As 4 specimen in almost any park: but how very rarely do we see
the droapiig dainty species, P. pftihuracaides, Vhe masses of
Lipom on the thin pendant branchlets m spring are dehghtfal, Jn
the Caulfelll Mark js % very fine youn specunen of 2. rhonthyr-
folder, which, apart from beng a fine tree, gives abundant masses
of orange-coloured berries in winter aud Spring.

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LIIL.—WNo, 4 August §, 1936 No. 632

THE FIELD NATURALISTS' CLUB OF VICTORIA

The ordinary monthly meeting of the Club was held at the
Royal Society’s Halt on Monday, July 13, 1936. The President,
Mr. S. R, Mitchell, presided, and about 100 members and Friends
were present,

The President announced that, since the last meeting. the Club
had lost throig@h death an old and valued Life Member, Mt. A. H.
S. Lucas. and gave a brief account of his connection with the
Club, Members then stond in silence fora minute ta mark their
respect,

é SUBJECT FOR EVENING

Amillustrated lecture, “Australian Vanishing Birds,” was given
hy Mr. A. A. Chisholm, ¢F.A.0.u. He mentioned each main group
of birds aad hriefly dealt with the species that apparently weve not
holding their own under present conditions, It seemed that only
two species of birds had become extinet since the white oceupation
of Australia. Several other species, including the Night Parrot
and. Ground Parrot, had become exceedingly rare.

The President, and Messrs, A, D, Hardy, ¥. H. Miller, A. H-
Mattingley. J. A. Kershaw, A. R. Proudfoot and A. 3. Kenyon
spoke am the lecture, Mr. Miller stated that he had seen adver-
tised a trip ta Northern Australia, and one of the attractions
offered was “Wild Turkey Shooting.’ This matter was referred
to the Committee for investigation,

The President expressed the thanks of the Club to Mr, Chisholm
for a very interesting address,

BUSINESS FROM MINUTES

National Monumenty.—The President announced that a com-
bined meeting of all interested societies would be held in the
National Herbarium Hall on August 12, at 8 p.m. He invited
all members to attend.

The Aguarium.—yThe Han. Secretary reported that a letter had
been sent to the Premier stating that should the Aquarium be
shifted, the seaside, preferably St. Kilda, was, inthe Club's opinion,
the best place for it,

Reorganization af the Zoological Gardens—Mr, G. N, Hyam
announced that he had attended a deputation to the Chief Secre-
lary, who stated that legislation would be introduced to improve
conditions.

58 Fiokt Naturalist? Chub Proceedings Woah win

_ Wild Nature Show-—The President announced that the Show
Committee would consist of Messrs. S. R, Mitchell, V, H. Miller,
Chas. Barrett, L. W. Cooper, W. H. Ingram and G. N. Hyamm,

Mr. Hyam to act as convener,

CORRESPONDENCE

From AN.Z.A.A.S., inviting members to participate in the
January meeting at Auckland, N.Z.: and enclosing nomination
torus for distribution,

From Mr, I’. Lewis,*Chief Inspector of Fisheries and Game,
regarding the proposal te have Greater Melbourne declared a
sanctuary, In his opinion very little good would come from this,
as the area offered no breeding grounds; furthermore, out of
season shooting was already beng dealt with under the present
laws. Jo police such an area would he impossible.

REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS
Reports of Excursions were given as follows:—Univetsity
Agzricultaral Department, Mr. L, W. Cooper (for Miss Raff);
Broudmeadows, Mr, A. C. Frostick; National Museum for
Ethnology, Mc. A. S. Kenyan; National Herbariunt, Mr. J. W.
Audas; University Geological Department, Mr. I, &. Colliver
(for Mr, F, A. Singleron).

ELECTION OF MEMBERS
Ona show of hands the following were duly elected as ordinary
members of the Club: Mrs. Geraldine Wilkinson, Messrs, A, 1.
Coulthard, John S. Russell, and A. Grassick.

GENERAL BUSINESS

The President announced that a copy of the book .4 Year on
the Great Barrier Reef, had been presented to the Club by Miss
Agnew, who was accorded the thanks of the Club,

Mr. A. H. Chisholm stated that Jarge numbers of the Mung
Orchid were being offered for sale in the markets. As this species
was protected, both in Victoria and New South Wales, he would
make inquiries and report further to the Committee.

Miss Chisholm referred to the loss by fire of Mr. Lancaster's
shell collection, and asked whether the Club could assist tim in
any way; this matter was referred to the Committee for con-
sideration,

The President stated that the Club was represented at the
Melton Tree Planting, and also had been invited to send delegates
to the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Mt. Arapiles by
Major Mitchell.

he meeting was adjourned for the conversazione.

sf Freld Natuvalisis Clue Proceeamgs 59

EXHIBITS

Miss Knox—Kenyte from Mr. Erebus (collected by members
of the Antarctic Expedition) ; Aimmonite ot Cretaceous age, fram
Nth. Queensland; Shells, Spiru/a peromit, fvony Queensland;
Dendrites, front Lilydale.

Mrs, Hill.—ivy Violet (20lo. hederacea), garden grown.

Mr. T. S. Hart—Stamens of several species of Melaleuca,
specimen of Mistlelae, shawing winter colouring,

Mr, Rabin Croll—Pterostylis concinna bulb taken (from private
property} at Black Rock. It has remained in ihe same pot for
seven years, and this season has produced nine blooms.

Mr. E. S, Haniks.—Small East Victorian Bat (N4ctinomus sp.),
picked up dead, but still warm, at Wandong.

Mr. ©. J. Gabriel —Fan Shells and Scallop Shells irom various
localittes,

Mr, S. R. Mirchell—Mineral Specimens; Calcite {stalaetic)
from caves at Belubela. N.S.W.: Aragonite, from Lismore,
N.S.W,

Mr, A. C. Frastick.—Specimens of Adamellite [rom Gellibrand
Hill, near Broadmeadows; coloured micro-drawings of the rock
under crossed nicols,

Mr, F. 5. Colliver—Leg hones of Dinornis viartinus Owen
(lent by the Geological Survey of Victoria): Dinornis robusta ( 2}
Owen; Bromonens nevae-hollandiag from WA; BD. aniner, tossil
fron: King Island (last three leat hy Dr. G, B, Pritchard).

Correction—In Annual Report, donations for Mr. R. O'Neill
read Mr, W, Jj, O'Neill,

NATIONAL MONUMENTS

The Club's campaign for the better protection and reservation of National
Monuments is progressing, A meeting will he heid at the Nutional Her-
barium on August 12 at 8 pan. Delegates from about 25 socicties will be
preseiit, Invitations have been accepted fram all the natural history societies,
Tourist Bureau, Royal Automobile Club, Honourary Justices’ Association,
A.N.A., and many others, It is hoped to forin a strong commiltee for the
purpose of collecting data ard drafting a Bill to present to the Government
at the meeting frem amongst tae delegates present. Club members who are
interested are invited to attend. :

ANNUAL SHOW

The show Committee has held a preliminary meeting and suggests that
the tithe of the show shall be "The Ficld Naturalists’ Club's Sist Annual
Show." The Shaw Committee hopes to have the ca-operation of all members
and can find a place m the organization jor everyone. This particularly
applies. to new members, The Committee would urge that all those who are
willing to help cither by services, exhibits. ar both, should register their
namnes with the Honorary Secretary, Suggestions as to jmprovemerts
and interesting exhibits are also welcomed as if is the Committee’s wish
that new features should be added ¢o that our displays shall not become
stereotyped. Members who have friends in the country who would collect
Rowers or other interesting natural history soecimens would greatly assist
if they could arrange for supplies for the show, Admntission tickets will
he availabie at the Aubust meeting.

~ , . Vie. -
60 Ewart, flora a} bictoria ot, one

FLORA OF VICTORIA
ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS
By Provessor A. J, Ewart

‘The following list of altérations and additions to the Flora of
Victoria includes! alt those made since the publication of the Flora
in 1930 to the present date and may be of interest to those engaged
in field work,

Ry the courtesy of Mr. F, J. Rae, Director of the Botanie
Gardetis, the list has heen checked from the records kept at the
ITerbarium, Ti any readers note omissions, informntion't in regard
to then will be welcome,

VWoymenopkyllaceae
Additions > Hymenaphytiian peltatasy {Pair.) Desy,, Stalked Filmy Fern,
A. dilatation Sw, Handsome Filmy Fern,
Polypodiaceae
Addition: Aspleniune obtusotun Forst., Small Shore Spleenwert
'sramineéae
Alterations: Spinifex liivsntus Labill, to S. inermic Banks et Sol. (fxalnm
idvme Korst., fil, 1786).
Elytraphoris articulatus Beauv, to E. apicatus Canis:
Bragrostis teuelia (1) Reem. and Schult. ta 7, jafouica
Trin.
E, Brownit Nees, to E. elongata Jacq.
Pow Billardiert Steud. 10 Poa caesjitosa G. Forst var,
Bitlardievi Hook. £,
Additions: *Pleum subulatem (Savi) Asch, und Grae. G2. tence
Schrad.),
SHpa incwea Hughes, Incurved Spear Grass.
3, claiior Hughes, Stout Soear Grass.
Alterations: Dactylactention acgyptiin (1..) Richt, Finger Grass. to
D.. radvlans Beauv., Button Grass.
“Schisonus ealyetans Coss, et Dur. to S. barbatus Joel.
Additions: *Peutaschistis uiroides Stapf. (Vernacular wame?).
Danthonia nudiflora Morris. Alpine Wallaby Grass,
D. Richardsanir Cashmore, Tali Wallaby Grass.
DY Ditlowiana Cashmore, Loose Wallaby Grass,
Alteration: inphibromws nervasus (R.Br.) Akt. ta A. Neesit Stend.
Additions; 4. gracilis P. P. Morris, Graceful Swann Wallaby Grass.
“Ay Archeri Af, Pointed Swamp Wallaby Grass,
Asiphibromus veorevatus Swalien, Dark Swamp Wallaby
Grass.
A, Nees: Steud:, Swamp Wallaby Grags,
Alteration: *Loluwm A brian Hausalkn. to 1. snbulanean Vis,
Addition: *Agropyson jruisteernt (L.) Beaty, 1812, Sea Wheat Grass ot
Coast Cough; syn. (Triticum panceae Ts, 1759),
Cyperaceae
Alterations: Cyperus squarrases T,, to CL aristates Rotthb,, 1773.
Clodtua glomerateu RBr. ta C. rubigivomm (Soland)
Domin., 1915.
Amaryllidaceae
Additions: *Qruthogalwn snbellatun L,, Star of Bethlehem
*Gladioler bycotiinds Mill, Turkish Corn Flag.
Family Burmannlaceae, Sarcostpion Rodivoyi ‘Sebitr.
' (Thismia Rodwayi F.v.M.), Fairy Lanterns,

*Tiitroduced aliens.

aon Ewart, Flere of Victoria ol

Orchidaceae f
Additions: Cletsostoma tridentatiui Lindl,, Tangle Orchid.
Prosophyllum paliiduzt Nicholls, Pallid Leek Orchid.
P. Tadgellianum Rogers to P. alpinun R.Br.
P. itntricatum C. Stuart, var. ciliatum (P. ciliatiom Ewart
and Rees). Omit P. .cthiatian from specific tank.
P. pyriformee Coleman, ‘Pear Leek Orchid.”
Thelyntitra Murdochae Nicholls, Crimson Suh Orchid.
T, nuda R.Br. included under T. langifotia,
T. iruncatoa Rogers, Truncate Sun Orchid,
Microtis orbtcularis Rogers, Hogded Leek Orchid.
Caladenia tesselata Fitzgerald, Paved Caladenia.
C. Potersonii, var, waguifica,
C, tutelata Rogers, Sentinel Caladenia,
Alterations: C. angustata Lindl. replaces C. festacea R.Br.
Spiranthes austrafis Lindl. to §. stevsis (Pers) Ames.
Additions: Cryptostylis erecta R.Br, Ereet Tongue Orchid,
Pterostylis gracilis Nicholls, Slender Greenhood.
Casuarinaceae
~ Alteration: Casnartita lepidopiloia F.v.M. to C. ¢ristate Mig,
Proteaceae
Addition: Grewillea alpesins Meissn., Dallachy's Grevillen,
Loranthaceae
Addition: Noatothixas subaureus Oliv. Golden Mistletoe,
Chenopodiaceae
Additions: Chenapodiiun myriocephalwm (Benth.) Aecilen, Pig Weed,
C. puntilio R.Br. Common name?
Alteration: Sahcornte pachystachye J. M. Black to S, Blackiana Ulbrich.
Aizoaceae ' :
Alterations: Mesenrbeyonthertin ceqidlatdriin Haw. to Carpobrotus
acguilaterus NEBr, -
i lic caule L. ta Carpfabrotns edulis (T-.)
.EBr. '
*M. crystollinuim L, to Cryophytum crvstalinon N. Br.
*A. angilatum Thunb. to C. attortis N Br.
M. australe Sol. to Disphyma australe Sol.
Ranunculaceae
Addition: *Ramwteulue Sordows Crantz, “Pale Buttercup.”
‘Tremandraceac
Addition: Tetrathece glandulosa Iab., Glandular Pink-eye,
Malvaceae
Addition: Plagianthus Berthac FawM., White Plagianth.
Violaceae
Alteration: FZymenanthera desviala R.Br. te A. angustifolia R.Br.
Myrtaceae
Alterations; Evcalyptus anstraltana R,'T, Baker to E. amygdoline Lab.
E. fruticetorum Fiv.M. (ayn. &. polybractea R.T.B.).
Umibelliierat
Alteration; . prefs cunafolia Benth, to Oschatzia cuncifolia (Fv M,)

. Drd.
Addition’ *Oevnquthe pimpinellaies L., “Meadow Parsley,’
Ericaceae
Alteration: Gaeiltheria hispida R.Br. to G. appressa A, W. Hill.
Labiatae
Addition: Asuga grandiflora Stapt, Greater Bugle,
Alterations; Monthe graciiis R.Br. to M. diententca Spreng.
Lycopus qustras R.Br: to 1, ewropaens Le

*Introduced aliens,

fi2 Ewart, Flora of Victoria het ity

Bignoniateac «
Alteration: Tecoma australis R.Br. to T, pandarana Skeels,
Rubiaceae
Alteration: Caprosina Billardier’ Hef. to C. quadvifida Rob,
Additions; *Galnun iricorme With. Corn Bedstraw.
*G, divaricatont Lam, Spreading Bedstraw.
Campanulaceae -
Additions: A aa ay wincan flora Decne, Austra) Blyre-bell:
Cotensoi, NEBr., Small Blue-bell.
We snullicautis Benth, Branching Blue-bell,
HW. gracilis Schrader, Stender Blue-bell.
Alteration: Pratia erecta Gaud. to P. concolor (R.Br.) Druce.
Compasitac
Additions: Prachycame lissocarpa Black, Creeping Daisy.
Witladinia megocephala Black, Large-headed Daisy.
?. temassiuea Black, Slender Daisy.
VV. pterachacta Black, Wing-sced Daisy,
Leplorhynchus niedius A, Cutin., Stalk Buttons,
*Onopordon Hlyricwm L., Woally Thistle,
Alterations: *@entaurea Iicrts Pall. Cc. repens L.
SA agentes striarinin L. to X. pungens Wall, Noogarra
ACT,
Aiditions: *Chondrilla juncea L., Skeleton Weed,
*anthivert cahfornicnum ‘Greene, Californian Burr,
“Introduced alicns-

The following amended key to the Victorian orchids has been
‘prepared by Mr. W.H. Nicholls and Mr, R. Bond;—
Key to Genera of Victorian Orchids
A Stems epiphytic or chizomic, creeping om trees

or rocks ., -, -- B
Stems ‘underground | ‘often “tuberous © ‘less ‘alten
rhizomic .. 4, 4. " . 3+ Cc
RB. Labcllum movably jointed ‘to the base at the
columm; its median tobe not fleshy . . DENDROBLUM
Labellum attached firmly to the base’ at ” the
coluna; its median lobe fleshy... ., .. .. SARCOCHILUS
C. Plant leafless, at least when in flower, or the
leaves reduced to small scales or bracts . m D
Plant with one or more lnaves when in flower . F
D. Flowers rather large; white, pink, purple or
spotted; the lahellum entire or tri-lobed -. E

Flowers smali, greenish, or, if purplish, nal
spotted; the dabellum recurved and, usually

tapering _. \ ote ee ey ase ee os PRASOPHYLLUM
Flowers rather small, ‘green, whitish, pinlash,
of purplish; labellum hamrmer-shaped .. 2... SPICULAEA
(DRAKAEAS
FE, Sepals and petals more or Tess united to a definite
tube .. wo... ..)6 GASTRODIA
Sepals and petals ‘spreading widely oo an DIPODIUM
F. Stem with a single leaf... ., in cee L
Stem with two or mure leaves .. s,s 2... G
G, Labelfum tri-lobed .. . eee H
Labellum without’ lateral lobes 42S ee i
H. Petals prominett and stalked 2. 1... -. ~ PIURLS
Petals minute and sessile ,. -. . » ORTHOCERAS
J. Flowers small, arranged in a definite: spiral . SPIRANTHES
Flowers medinm to large, not in 9 definite spiral J

1336, Ewader, Flora of Mictorra a

J. Labellum long and thick; the Other eepeetines
reflexed and intornspicuous ., 9, . ECRYPTOSTYLIS
Labellum fattened; often smal) .. .-
K. Flower forming a Breen or poopie hood; leaves

several .: 4, i py) PTEROSTYLIS
Flower not forming a hod | leaves tim “oppesite CHILGGLOTTIS
L. Seat clongated .. : 24 S25 M
_ Leaf almost as broad as Jong . 1 le gee as Vv
M. Leaves fat or channelled . i eed N
Leaves leek-like, or Onionslike .. u
N. Labellum not distinctly differcnt Tram the “other
perianth segments ‘ THELY MiITRA
Labellu distinctly different frome. the other 1
perianth sepments .. .- .. -- -. 2. ce 20 Q
GQ. Flowering stems thin, not fleshy fy I A P
Flowering stems stout, rather fleshy... -- +. R
P, Flowers brown, or greemsh-brown ,. 6, :. -. CALEANA
Flowers slot brown, at least inside .. Q
O, Lahellum with a distinet, erect appendage al Pe ee
the base .. .. - 4 ple ne GLOSSODIA
Noa such appendage preset A ete ee CALADENIA
Plant under 6 inches high , sion sh tal or 34 BURNETTIA
Plant over 6 inches high .. 2. 4) -. -- 55 6 Ss
S, Leat flat; labellum hairless) 2. sa. oe Sioa. :
~ | Leaf chatinelled ; Jabelluni usually with long Tits C€CALOCHILUS
T. Midrib of leaf prominent :. =. 1: .. :. CRYPTOSTYLIS
Midrib of leaf absent or indistinct .: .. :. ., LYPEHRANTHUS
SUAVEOLENS

U. Borsal sepal short and broad j flowers very small; y c;
labellum curving down .. .. . MICROTIS
Dorsal sepal narrow and tapéring: flowers ‘anail 5
to metliam ; labellum curving upwards .. .. ,. PRASOPHYLLUM
Vo Flower single and very clase to the Ieaf .. .; CORYSANTHES
Tiewer tot very close to the leaf: one to several 26
present .. .. ., \ Ww
W. Leaf flat, prominent when the plant i is in ‘flower i x
Leaf channelled or rolled to some extent; small
and indistinet when the plant isin flower .. Y
X. Flowers and stem thick; rather fleshy =. 5. 4: LYPERANTHUS

NIGRICANS
Flowers and stem not at all fleshy... .. .. ACTANTITUS
Y. Periauth segmetite fleshy 5 Rowers rarcly opening
inuch . | : RURNETTIA
Penanth Segments “not “tesby flowers: ‘opening
ie freely yy wet puis EA :
2, Column with broad wings we ee ee ge ee e- -- LEPTOCERAS
Colum with narrow wings 2. 6. 2 6. ye -- ERIOCHILUS
ERRATA

Page HM, Vol. LIT, No. 3, July, 1936, Nateralist —

Doacssyistre an. 7 (yellow, gelatinous, pileate) for Dacryanitra sn r
(yelloy, gelatinous, pileate).
Lepeota parvarondata for L. peronnanlata, Russela cyorosantha ? for
cyorexuntha |

Owing ta pressure on space the original réport on the Sherbrooke Forest
was condensed, which resulted in an inadvertent omission. Hor the sentence
“The day’s outing resulted in 27 additional species being added to the Tis¢
campiled for Sherbrooke Forest” stthstitate "The day's outing resulted in
27 species of Fungi being added to the list compiled for Sherbrooke Boy"

64 Nicwous. 4 Mec Tabacco Plat VaL_Lit,

A NEW TOBACCO PLANT—A NATURAL HYBRID
By W. H, Nicwotrs

An Easter visit to the histone You Vangs Range, near Lava,
Victoria, revealed both the introduced Tree Tobacea (Nicotiana
gloaca Graham), and the Austral Tobacco (Nicotiana sxaveolens
Lehm.} in abundance, Both species had responded vemarkably to
the recent beneficial rains and were in splenclid condition, and the
finest shaw of bloum so far seen by us (Mr. F. J. Bishop iand the
writer).

From below the steep south-western slope oj Flinders’ Peal
we noticed the wonderful infloregence of what appeared to be
the alien form. Some of the plants seemed ‘'too gaod to he true,”
so investigation was decided upon. We were soon among plants
of a natural hybrid, the result of an undoubted union of the two
previously mentioned species.

The plants ranged from about 2 feet 4 inches to over 4 feet
in height, with fragrant fowers in abundance and intermediate
in form.

The colour of these hybrid Howers ranged trom olive-green
through lighter shades to cream and stcely-white, thus giving the
specimiens quite an ornamental bearing; and T venture to siiggest
a desirable acquisition to our hame gardens.

The dark-green foliage was also intermediate—both in hue and
in form—but lacked the “bloom” so apparent on the foliage of
N. glauen.

The flowers of these undoubted hybrids grow on very long
slender, erect stems; the panicles of bloom were thus far above
the leaves. The Howers are iragrant-

We found this new form well established on the south-western
and also on the northern [aces of Flinders’ Peak—wherever the
native and the introduced forms flourished, Owing to its outstand-
ing characteristics and to the fact of its heing well established. i
is deemed worthy of classification under the name of Nicotiana
flindersiensis (sp. nov.) in recognition of its habitat,

Planta. glabra, cirea 75-120 em., utta. Folta ovato-lancealaia vet
laxcealata, Marginibus undulatis. Flores numevost, virides vel
albi: coralia longa; loli palantes, bases loboruss dilate.

A glabrous shrub about 7-120 em. in height. Leaves large.
dark green, ovate-lanceolate, upper leaves small, fancealate, margins
undulate. Calyx with narrow lobes, the corolla 25-3 om, Jong.
green, the tube about twice as long as the calyx. the corolla dilated
helow the 5-lobed rim, rim spreading, sometimes reflexed, with
short obtuse lobes, Capsule ovoid, enclosed by the hase of the
calyx, The type specimen is in the Herbarium, Botany Dept.,
University of Melbourne. Habitat: Flinders’ Peak, You Yangs
Raage, Victoria,

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST YOL. LUT August, 1936

Plate VIE

Three Species of the Tobacco Plant

A. Nicotiana glauca Graham, B. N. flindersiensis, sp. nov.
C. A dissected flower of N. flindersfensis, D. Nv seaveolens Lehm.

sae Ciark, Habits of Land Cray fishes 65

NOTES ON THE HABITS OF LAND CRAYFISHES.
By ELLEN CLARK
Three kinds of crayfishes are found in Victoria. There are
aquatic species, such as the large spiny crayfishes of the Murray,
Yarra, Glenelg and Thomson Rivers; semi-aquatic, those living
partly on land and partly in water, such as the common yabby

Land Cray fishes.

1. fiayeens tietoriensts Sm. and Sch., natural size,

2. #. fessor Er., showing method of carrying eggs, natural size,

which is found in almost every waterhole around Melbourne and
in the country; and the terrestrial crayfishes, or land-crabs as
they are sometimes called, which are found almost all over
Victoria.

The terrestrial crayfishes are very destructive, and therefore
of much economic importance, The iact that they are not entirely
dependent on standing water enables them to spread over vast
areas. For the past two vears observations have been made on the

66 Crark, Habits of Land Crayfishes we Eph

life history and habits of various species in the hope of finding some
method of exterminating them. Observations were mae in glass
aquarium tanks to watch the methods of burrowing and the food
requirements. Field notes were made at Ferntree Gully on a prop-
erty containing several acres of orchard, grazing paddocks and
heavily timbered scrub. Two creeks, which are permanent for
most of the year, run. through the property,

The orchard, which ts on a hillside, is riddled with holes of
Engaeus victoriensis Sith and Schuster (Fig. 1). The burrows
are from six to eighteen inches deep im most places, but on the
highest level some are considerably deeper. During the plough
ing season many yabbies were turned up daily.

This species forms “community burrows.” In an area of tliree
or four square feet all the burrows converge, making a large
cavity below, in which is the central pool. When one of these
community pools is formed at the base of a fruit tree, the result
of the undermining is the dying off of the tree. As the yabbies
are vegetarian as well as carnivorous the roots of the trees prob-
ably form a palatable morsel. The burrows are usually indicated
by cone-shaped mounds, formed by the mud excavated from the
burrows, The cones vary in size from one-half to three inches in
diameter and the same in height. Sometimes, however, no cone
is formed, the only indications being round holes about «ne-half
to two inches in diameter clustered within a few inches of one
another,

E. victoriensts is found only on the higher and fairly dry ground,
but on the flats and in the creek another species, £. fossor Erich-
son is abundant. Tlie holes of fossor are usually single shafts with
only one occupant, but a few holes were found to contain two or
three specimens in side branches, The holes, although single, are
often made so close together that as much damage is caused as in
the case of the “community” burrows. Unlike &. victoriensis,
which burrows in fairly dry soil, this species prefers very moist
conditions and numerous burrows were found in all the swampy
areas examined. The creek beds are full of holes, and in various
places the banks have been undermined for several feet, and, on
pressure, have subsided into the creek, causing mich annoyance
and inconvenience by blocking the creek and ruining the banks.

During the dry weather the creek bed is full of burrows and
as the wet season advances the cones are built higher and higher
to keep above the rising water level. Many bridges in the district
have had to be reinforced due to these vabbies undermining the
foundations. Channels dug to drain the swamps are constantly
being filled in by the actions of the vabbies, and several times cows
and horses have had nasty falls by stepping on “crab-holes.”

It is interesting to watch the yabby digging the burrows. When
placed iti aquarium jars containing earth they soon start to burrow,
usually in a corner. In digging the burrow the great chelac, or

fate Crarx, Habits of Land Crayfishes 67

A. Carapace removed to show gills.
B. First row of gills removed to show remaining gills.
C. Gastroliths of a crayfish (after Hale).

(Twice natural size.)

. . Nat.
68 Crark, Habits of Land Crayfishes aay a.

large claws, are used; these loosen the soil, which is then held
between the chelae and the head and brought to the top of the
hole. Specimens kept in captivity were fed on earthworms, raw-
meat and tadpoles, all of which were eagerly taken and torn to
pieces by the two small pairs of chelate limbs and fed into ihe
mouth by the small foot-jaws. One female with twenty-three
newly-hatched young was put in a jar to see the development of
the young, but two days later the jar contained only eight very
large young specimens with the female. Apparently in ihe absence
of other food the surviving young had eaten their weaker Irothers.
This cannibalism is evident in all species which have heen kept
without food, and numerous fine examples have been lost in tls
way. For four days the young remained in the burrow with the
mother and then started fresh burrows for themselves, These
were only about one-half an inch in diameter.

The breeding season is in early spring, the eggs being carried
by the female on the swimmerets of the abdomen (Fig. 2), The
young hatch out during summer, usually between December and
February, and for a short time remain attached to the swimmerets
of the mother by the last two pairs of legs, the terminal joints of
which are modified into small hooks, The young crayfishes look
very much like the adults, except for the very large carapace in
which is stored the food for the first moult.

Crayfishes grow by a series of moults. In the first year the
young crayfish sheds its carapace several times; after that, only
once or twice a year. Before moulting, gastroliths or “crabs'-eves”
as they are called, are stored up by the crayfish. These gastroliths
are small nodules of calcareous matter and have a pectiliar, yet
characteristic form (Fig. C). During the moult they are dissolved
in the stomach and are then apparently used in the formation of
the new exoskeleton.

Crayfishes breathe through the gills. which are attached to the
hase of the legs and placed between the carapace anil the outer
wall of the body (Figs. A, B). They are kept moving and water
is constantly circulating around the crayfish, enabling it to breathe
the air dissolved in water.

A monograph of the crayfishes, aquatic and terrestrial, is now
in progress at the National Museum and speciinens are required
from all localities for purposes of comparison and geographical
distribution. To send specinetis alive, pack them in a bex or tin
with plenty of damp grass to keep the gills moist: in this way
they will remain alrve for several days.

If several are put tnto one container, they should be separated
by partitions to prevent them from fighting and consequent damayre.
Specimens may also be preserved in spirits of wine or methylated
spirit, but live specimens are preferred by the Museum. Brief
notes on their habits and habitat should accompany the specimens,

rrr} Swaky, The Little Desorl a

THE LITTLE DESERT*
By A. J. Swasy

A detailed and interesting account of “VUhe Botany of the Little
Desert” was conrributed by Mr, St, Eloy D'Alton in The Natwralist
of August, 1913. His mention of “the showy Borania clawcittolia
(now inormifa) in profusion” aroused the curiosity of ule late
Mr, H, B, Williamson, Mr. Willianrson tried to reach ihe locality
from the north side withont success. In 1930, when H-B-W.
and myself were the guests of Mr. Harald Smith, of Horsham,
two mare attempts fatled. Shortly afterwards, Messrs, H, and
W. Smith found a way in and discovered 4 showy Boronia in
profusion. Those who remember I.B.W, can picture the cager-
ness with which he opened the packer sent, and Ais exasperation
at Anding B. pilosa.

lt was intended then to supplement D'Alton’s et. Mr. Willian
son prepared the specimens ior mounting. His intimation that
they were ready was followed immediately by news of his death.
Collections from five localities were then mixed and the locality
records lost, In the years since, it has been a labour of remen-
brance to sord and retrace, while still hoping we might one dlay
find Boronia inornata.

D*Alton records 227 species—a remarkable number for a small
area.af so-called desert, Qur observations over the eastern guarter
have added 35 dehnitely and 10 others are nor fully identified, ‘hus
the toral number af species known in the desert ts 272.

We were prepared for “some really pretty wistas” aid “the
variety of tints in the foliage of the various trees and shrubs’;
jt B'Alten surely avoided over-statement, From carly Septern-
ber 10 late October, the desert is an unbroken succession of heauty
with many surprises.

For sheer delight, it would be hard to find anything richer than
one oi the low red fulls covered with the Broom Honey-myrtle,
Melaleuca uncinata. In the shimmering heat of February, one is
reminded of “wreen pastures beside still waters,” But nothing
could be mre inhospitable tu man vr beast,

I Alton's. round plain, successive fires notwitstanding, is a
glorious mass of Hurowia pilosa. The lovely waxy stars, from palest
pink to crinsem) are everywhere over some 15 square rniles., Most
of it is quite hairless.: but occasional hairy plants are found, withauut
any apparent difference in soil or aspect. The effect is enhanced
hy Axphrasia colhna—nat purple, but of most delicate mauve, grow-
ing up to two feet high. Here also is the Velvet Spyridiain, Spy
ridin subochrendum; but nor in great abundance,

Ty country south of the round plain, Crlectasia cyanea, Rive
Tinsel Lily, covers acres with its sheen. Is there any place where

*Au area in the Nhill-Harsham district.

' Vir. Nas
70 Swany, The Little Desert ae he

three such heauties could be found dominating the landscape, With
the Calectasia, the Mat Heath-myrile, Becki. ericaed, is abunant
Rarely does it exceed an ineh in height.

Wherever an old dune, of apparently pure silica sand, is scen,
there is the Snaw Myrile, Lhotghkju alpestris, in great thickets.
Some bushes may be masses of crimson buds, while their neigh-
bours are in full snowy bloom. This may extend for miles, espe-
cially on the southern fringe, A curious, Jale-Nowering forin of
this, with leaves almost round and very close, may he the South
Australian variety, latifolia. It was discovered last year and fresh
apecimens are expected for examination in November,

In another part of the southern edge, a Calvitix, apparently a
dwarfed form of €. tetragena, perhaps nine inches. high, ts
dominant among other dwarfs, Not far away, the prevailing
feature is the lovely golden stars oF the Phehadlaan slemapleyiian,
A little farther west, Borouna caerulescens, Juish Boronia, nungles
with Zicria veroutcred, This seems to be the only place where both
are abundant,

A Calytrix resembling a miniature Lombardy Poplar in form
has heen the subject of much speculation, Tt js not plentiful any-
where. and flowers could not be obtained, although one cluster of
old fruits proved the genus. We were inclined to the view that
the unusual growth was due to parasites. Last year, however,
flawers were obtained, very late in the season, and i transpired
that the same thing or something very similar, had been recog-
nized an New South Wales for 100 years as a distinct species,
Which is right?

On a small salt lake in the south-east. Melalewca halmaturoriuir,
Kangaroo Paper-bark, reflected in the sill water, leaves an indefihle
memory. Melolenca neglecta is frequently seen about sale marshes.
MM. sibbosa likes the river banks. M. pubescens is a fine tree in the
red loam of the fringe and on the river, AY. oetniiata, forme
thickets at rare intetvals. M. Wslsoste prefers the red rises, There
is another, very dwarf. usually in clay-pans, closely related 10
M, hatmaturertn aud M4, aeglecta; hut fruiting only.on the oldest
wuud, on the ground. Flowers have not been obtained. Specimens
in a “soak,” better grown, indicate a possibility of mere vanation
an acrount GE conditions.

Hibbertias ave everywhere. A, stricla and FH. sericea exhihit
the extremes of reduction Of leaf. Often the latter is very bright and
fresh green, and in exceedingly dry places. Both A, fasctewlota
and H. virgata have the same aburlance of flowers a5 elsewhere,
often forming undershrubs for Lhetzkya.

Acacias favour the fringe. A. calianifoln, unaccountably over-
looked hy D’Alton, is magnificent right through the spring, espe-
cially on @ ved sandstone ridge that rune along the southern
boundary. A recording of A. prdarssiida based at a apecimen

pany Swany, The Little Dosert 71

exhibited at one of the Wild Nature Shaws is somewhat doubtiul.
Tt was credited to Mr. H, Smith, and a specimen was furwarded
to hint for confirmation. He believes it was his; but has never
found another plant.

Of Kpacridaceae, 14 species are abundant, Leucopagow virgetis
and L. costatus mingle in a snowy fat on the west of the round
plain and another fo the south. Jo. ericoides is fond of clumps of
Red Stringy Bark. Very early in the spring, the cotntless tiny
pink buds present a charming picture.

JY Alton notices the unusual colouring of Axecarpus spartea, Ti
ig copper-brown, and the plants are always very shapely,, Goad
specimens scattered among the Brooni Honey-myrtle always evoke
admuration. £. enpressiformis keeps close ta the river or on the
fringe, One large thicket of £. aphiila is also very close to the
river. Leptomeria aphwlia, with heavy crops of pale-green, intensely
sour drupes in spring is rather rare in the desert ; but more frequent
in the heavier soil among the Bulokes.

Most of these can be seen in full beauty in che last week in
September.

The iollowing plants, not recorded by D'Alton, are awaiting
further study:-—

A Caswuine, associated with C. distala and C. Atwelfert= but
apparently cistinet.

Confirmation of Acacia pravisstma.

Broad-leaved form of Lhotskya,

Dwart Melolenecc of clay-pans.

Pterostylis, ike pedaylossa, fowerme in carly October; but
never obtained in maturity,

Morgana, apparently between M. floribunda and AC. glabra,

Pimelca—related to the spatlulata type; hut not defintely deter-
mined,

Acacia niclanoxylon or mnplexa,

Calytrix, warraw, erect Torin.

The following species are definitely added to D’Alton's bst —

Liliaceae—Chasmaescilla corymbosa. — .

Oychidaceae~-~-Thelymttra antennifera, Glossodia majar, Cala-
denia filomentosa, Pterestylis cycnocephala.

Casuarinaceae—Casnarina Muclleri, C. potsilla,

Proteaceac—Hakeu Rexilts.

Santalaceae—Exocarpus cupressifornis, FE. aphyla, Lepto-
mneria aphytla, . :

Droseraceae—Nrosara pugmaca, 1). auriculata, 1, peltata.

Leguminosae—Dallowae hispida—here not rough, Aradie
arinavea, 21. ligulaia, 4. calanmafalia,

Rutacege—Borena pilosa.

Sapindaceze—Dodonura connate, D, bursaritfol,

Rhamnacese—Crypiundra tomentose, Spyridmnr spathulahen,

r
#2 Nidkalls, Now Spectes af Prasophylii R.Br. vir bee

Thymela¢aceae—Pimelea phylicotdés, P. flava (but here, pink).

Myttaceae—Eucalyptus aleasa, Bacehia Behvit, B, ericara, B-
crassifolia,

Epacridaceae—a stroloma conasteplioides, Monotoca scoparia.

Lahiatae—Ajuya grandiflare.

Solanaceae—S olan static.

Gondeniaceae—Goodema rabysta.

A NEW SPECIES OF THE GENUS PRASOPARYLLUM
. R.BR.
By W. H. Nicuaits
Prasophylium sublisectum, usp.

Planta terristris gracihy, haamuilts, ctreiter 12-16 cam. alte, foliyn
teres, Spica laxay flores 7-14, wivides at hadi; avaria ebotato.
pedicclli perbyeves; sepalum dorsale evectuan, avate-lanceglalunr.
acuium, ciretter 3:2 yun. longunt, scpala-lateratia, parallela, lancea-
lula, concava, crrevler 4 anon, longa: pelala patentia, lincaria, circiter
3 nant. longa: labelhen cireiter 4 mom. fongim, erechtn, abruple-
Fecuromn, ovetc-cuncatnin, uiarinnthus crenulatis, pary callosa.
prope bisecta, canalicwlata; bast wiscida, marginibus undulatis,
purpureis; pars membrantcea latiusoula eiridis; colunne lactiie,
latevales Hineart-oblonge , anthera purpureay pollima granulosa,
coudicnla porwe.

A slender, rather diminutive plant about 12-16 em, high; Jeaf£
xrete, sometimes in a withered conduion ar flowering time; leat
lamina shorter than the spike, fistula a short distance below the
flowers; flowers 7-14 (in my specimens) in a loose spike, green
with brown markings. sometimes more brown than green; ovary
ablong-avate om 4 short, more ci less horizontal pedicel, a small
acute bract inmmediately below; dorsal sepal ahout 2 2 mm. long.
erect, avate-lanceolate, with a short point; lateral sepals lanceolate,
about 4 min, Jong, Tree, erect, spreading, concave on the inner side:
lips more or less bidentate; petals linear, widely spread, about
Jam. long, a prominent longitudinal stripe down the centre;
labeilum ahout 4 mim. lohe, ovate-clineate, an a short-claw, very
wide at base, recurved at a right angle about the middie: mem-
lvanotts part narrow, greenish, margins crenulate; callous part
hardly raised, reaching to within a shore distance of tip, deepiy and
widely divided at base by a green channel, viscid only at the base.
channel appreciably narrowing upward to a fine point ; margins of
callous part undulate, purplish; lateral appendages of column
broadly linear, with a start broad depressed hasal lobe; rostellun
emarginate, anther purplish, pollen masses granular, caudile shart.
Flowering in October, November. Habitat: Pomonal, South-
West Victaria.

re NicHotis, New Species of Prasophyllum R.Br, 73

KEY TO ILLUSTRATION

Prasophyliian subbisectum rsp.
A. A typical specimen. B. Flower from side. C. Flower from front.
D. Labellum. E. Variation at tip. F. Rostellum. G, Column from side.
H. Pollinia,

y
74 TanceL., Songbirds qud Palms ye an

This new and interesting addition to the genus was discovered
at Pomonal by Miss L. Banfield, of Ararat, during October and
November, 1932, The material was carefully examined and put
aside for further and mature consideration, because other species
somewhat siniilar were at that time under examination.*

Pr. subbissectum bears a closer resemblance to Pr. fisenin R.Br.
than to other described forms, but ts well separated by its more
slender and lowly habit, an entirely different labellum, possessing
a callous plate hardly ratsed above the membranous part, and
almost contpletely divided into two separate portions, a character
suggesting the specific name.

*Three species of the genus Prasephyliium R.Br. in Proc. Roy. Soc. af
Victoria, xlvi, 1933.

SONGBIRDS AND PALMS
By A. J. TApGEL.

Opposite by bedroom window, in a suburban garden, grow three palms,
The one im fruit, about 11 feet high, is Chamaerops excelsa, the Hemp Palm
of China, one of the hardiest and most desirable, though its specific name is
misleading, In its native country the hairy covering is used to bind plaster
and its leaves provide lasting cordage. It is so easily grown that I usually
have at least a dozen young plants as I cannot throw the seed to waste.
Two others grow nearby, Thread Palms of California, known as H’ashnrg-
tonia filtfera or Brahea filamentasa, of 18 and 25 feet high, but which will
not flower. This hardy palm will grow to 50 feet, but its spines make its
decaying branches unpleasant when being removed, especially if one is
using a saw and ladder while holding on at a height. Each branch is very
heavy.

This year If have been favoured more than usual in the abundance of
fruit the Hemp Palm has borne and this has given me constant attendance
of Song Thrushes and Blackbirds from morting to night, I find the Black-
bird—especially the male—aggressive ta other birds, although unfriendly
at my approach. While the pretty mottled Thrushes are teady to give
way to the Blackbird, they are not so easily alarmed at human approach,
and their large bright eyes seem to ask, “Is it peace, Jehu?”

Yesterday, noticing the larger Thrush on my fence, T was anxious that
he should have a fair share of the fruit, so I went towards the palm and
placed my hand near the berries to indicate he was welcome, Unfortunately,
his mate was little more than a hand's length away among the fruit and «ff
she flew to her consart.

The practice of the birds generally is to swallow the fruit whole; at
other times I find the purple grape-like skin lying wneaten, as if is apparently
the sweet pulp they seek, but which is so hard, I find, to detach from the
stone. Hence sometimes I find fruity seed either voided or otherwise
cast aside. No effort is made by the birds to crush the stone; indeed, £
find a flat pair of tweezers insufficient to crack it, although a pair ef pincers
will easily break it into fragments. When the whole seed, which is larger
than a field pea and renate-shaped, is placed in a glowing wood fire, no
gas is given out, and its shape remains the same, It alsa glows and finally
turns black without disintegrating.

The fruit has a nice blue “hloom” and the raceme reminds one of an
immature bunch ef black Hamburgh grapes. It is § in, by @ in. size and is
sweet to the taste. They are beautifully set on a straw-coloured raceme and
held by a large spathe.

a TAvcet.,, Songhirds oud Polis 75

Impelled by curiosity at the attention the birds gave my Hemp Palm, 1
noticed for the first time the beauty of the taceines. ‘here Were sex oi
these flower-clusters evenly distributed under the leaves wear the top of
the palm, I was struck by the purple erape-like fruit, and as jt had Streacted
me, L did not wonder it should also attract my bird friends, There wae
quantity and weight of inut borne by the palm at this iuterestang stuge. Lt
resolved to discover the weight,

Removing a raceme or branch and regarding it 2s an average pone,
rermaved the berrees and found the branch, without seeds, weighed JD ounces.
There were 2,12) berries, and as 290 weighed 8. ounces, 1 consalered the elx
branches with fruit weighed in all 33 pounds. Surely a great weight to he
supported. Thos Nature abundantly supplied Jife to perpetuate the plart's
kind, and furnished 2 Jarge provision of food for her bird damily,

Vinitors to the Hawkesbury River and Newport, near Sydney, will
renicmber their pleasure at Anding palms growing everywhere in the bush.
T was reminded of my visit to Cabbage Tree, aear Cape Conran, and
Marlo im. Vittoria beyond the Gippsland Lakes, where cur only palnts
nahve io Victoria—the Livistonia or Cory pha—xrow in an area of some
three square niles. What a delight ] experienced when looking at guant pales
some 70 feet in height and watching the feathery tops waving on the skyfior
amongst the Eucalyptus foliage of the surruwnding forest. These latter
palms are reputed to have been brought from an adjoining Staite, hy aboriginals
just as tlicy are said to have brought the pies, Colftris ra/eurat, which
are found at Mi, Bogong in the Kiewa River valley,

Bird life would be restored again to our dushlands and sanctuanecs if
hatdy palus such as the Hemp Palm were freely planted, and it is just
possible that Green Tinches—which [ also suspect of using this abunacaie
food supply—iwould thrive and increase as do the Blackbirds and Thruslies.

The afiove article by Mr. Tadgcll reminds me that there is another affinity
between pals and exotic birds, The Phaniy Canaricnsis palm qs a favourite
reasting place for the common Brown Sparrow and the Starling Notable
examples of ys are /. Casariensis palms outside the Metropolitan Board
of Works, Spencer Street, at the Fitzroy Gardens, and a very large specimen
overlooking Middle Brighton railway station. In al) these cases the chirping
of their “boarders” at sundown ean be heard many yards away.

The interesting point is that our nayive birds do nat usaally select palms
as a roost. The explanation appears to be that European lairds seem tr
have ay aretaict which leads them to select roosting places that are ot
readily accessible to cats and other predatory nocturnal mammals, par-
ticularly as they also favour such trees as Hollivs, Hawthorns, Boxthorn
and others which are obvicisly hard oy wieqnsfertahle for cats to climb,
While using such trees and palms as roosts, (hey do not appear to favour
them as westing places.

ONAL

FLORA AND FAUNA RESERVE

A considerable area embracing bath sides of the Canberra Hiwtway ot
Kowat, near the New South Wales border, has been proclaimed a Flora
atid Fauna Reserve, The area contains some typical casterm vegetation
and native shrubs Indigendus to the same area have been jitatetod in stintable
places by Mr. snd Mrs, Thom, country members who fesde in the district
and will act as rangers, At their request the Club was ahle to obtain this
reservation through the Advisory Couneil af Flura and Fauna. Ober sint-
aie sites night he surdlardy reserved if our country members advised the

y

CORRECTION ’

in The meniair of the late Mr. M. 1, Howie in the June issue, Mr. Howie's
Cliistian name shauld read Malcolm mstead of Michael,

3 Vie. Wat.
76 Evenrsionw to Brondmwadars Wal, LIL

EXCURSION TO BROADMEADOWS

Pechaps undey the inducement of a glorious day, filteen members ancl
friends attended the excursion to Broadmeadews on Saturday, June 20.
With six miles 6 be covered on foat, a start Was thade for a paint gn the
easierly tributary of the left branch oi the Moonee Ponds Creek, rust
above the junction. Here the streams have cut fairly steepesided valleys
throngh the mewer basaltic lava sheet and the gnderlyiig tertiary grits
and quarizites, exposing in places the older, probably Silurian, sedimentary
rocks, The latter, though locally wnfessiliferous, shaw sirstigraphical and
lithological characters in camnion with the proved Silurian rocks of Keilor,
five miles ta the south-west, and, by analogy, are regarded as of similar age.

A recent depusit of fresh-water litnestone occurs in the bed of the tributary
a: thin encrustations on basalt boulders, cementing together boulders of
different rocks im places, and as irregular shects on the older sandstones
and mudstones. It has licen analysed and proved to he a niagnesian litme-
ateme, in part dolomine <ontainug disseminated quartz grit, and encloses
iii places ivesti-Water shells of the genera Pomatopygrs and Coxiella, hath
of which are still found fiving in the creck. And it owes ats origin to the
chemical precipitation, from the ¢reck water, of salts carried into if in
solition by surface waters percolating through the basaltic rocks. A ‘brief
search was made for fossil shells, and none discovered, though in the creck
the living representatives were particularly conuuo

After climbing aut of the valiey of tae tributary, the valley ot the left
beach of the Moottee Ponds Creck was crossed, and again encountered
nearer to the fedt of Mount Gellibrand. Here a fault in the older sedi-
mentary series was painted ont, and the dawnwarpiag of the beds on the
upoast side of the fault noted. After which the creek was followed for a
short dittan¢e and a halt called af.an interesting patch of kaolin still nearer
to Mount GeJlibrand. ‘The kaglin occurs in association with angular quarts
grains and some white mica, and represents the patchy alteration of the
Mount Gellibrand adametlite fu situ, the material being unsorted by
Mlechanical atmespheric agencies: Similar alleration has taken place alone
the thermal fissures in the granite of Carlsbad, in Bohemia. where ihe
jiresent existence of thermal springs indicates the operation of post-valeanic
processes, and if is to an early stage, known as pneumatolysis, of such
processes that the kaolinization of the Carlsbad pranite has heen ascribed!
‘Though the Breadineadows deposit does nat seem ta show a great deal
of evidence in support of alteration of this character, {le sani process
has been invoked ta explain the kaolinization of the granite of Bulla, abour
Five miles to the north-west, and it seems most likely that the alteration
in zach case was doe to an allied process?

The quarry on Mount Gelhbrand was not reached wrttl lace in the after-
nootl, and, unfortiately, roa late for us to enjoy the rather fine panorama
from the summit of the Mount. For, although the Mount ts only abet
S00 feet above sea-level, the surrounding country is rather flat and affords
a fine view of the morc distant geographical features. The Mount i a
nearly circular outcrop of a gratite rock determined py Dr. F, 1, Seiflwall®
ln a paper from which tle bulk of this report has been compiled. to he
adamellite, and who states that, thongh granitic dykes occur in the city
itself, dhe adamellite is the nearest outcropping graciti¢ massif lo Melbourne,

A. © Froerron
Refpreices—
1, Grosicipa der Goitemshumde, (Mevtecienk, Trans. Johannsen, 1916,

. 15d.
2. R. W. Arrnitage, Wie, Net, Vol. xxviii, July, 1917.

3. Dr, F. L. Stillwell, Pree, Row Sac, Pic. Vul, xxiv (N,3S.), PL 1,
191], pp. 156-178.

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LITI—No. 5 September 5, 1936' No. 633

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA

The ordinary monthly meeting of the Club was held at the Royal
Society's Hall on Monday, August 10, 1936, The President, Mr.
S. R. Mitchell, presided, and about 100 members and Sriends

atrended,
SUBJECT FOR EVENING

The subject for the evening was an illustrated lecture on
“Grasses,” by Mr. P. F. Morris, of the National Herbarium, Mr,
Morris.stressed the part that grasses play in Australian commercial
life, and alsa dealt with them from a seiemifie and general aspect.
Many little-known facts and figures were mentioned. The lecture
was ilustrated by a fine series of lantern slides and coloured illus-
trations were shown, ilso outline sketches of the grasses of Aus-
tralia (drawn by the lecturer).

BUSINESS FROM MINUTES

Reservation at Kowat—Mr, G, N, Hyatn reported that, through
the Club’s efforts, a nature reserve had been proclaimed at Kowat-
and that twa Club members, Mr, and Mrs. ‘Thom, had been
appointed Rangers,

National Monuments—The President announced the meeting
at the Herbarium Hall on August 12. He stated that delegates
from more than 30 interested bodies would attend.

Shooting of Bustards or Wild Turkeys—The Secretary stated
that the Advisory Council for Flora and Fauna had moved in this
matter, amd] that the Commiltee had decided to withhald any
action pending advice tron: the Couneil.

Sale of King Orchids—-Mr, G. N. Hyam said that this State
had no authority to deal with this matter, as the plants cane from
private property in New South Waies..

Mr. Lancaster’s Shells—The President reported that the Corn-
nuttee had decided to take no action.

Mt. Arapiles. Celebrations —Mr, A, 5. Ienyon reparted thar
4,000 people attended the celebrations. Jt was proposed to fence
in the park. Mr. H. Smith, of Horsham, the Club Delegate, bad
fiven some excellent advice relating to the planting of trees, etc,,
advice which the Trust had decided to follow.

REPORTS OF EXCGRSIONS

Reports of Excorsions were given as follow -—National Museum,
Marsupials, Mr. F, 3, Colliver for Mr, J. A. Kershaw; Zoology
School, University, Mr. F_ S. Colliver for Professor Agar; Lily-
dale, Palacontology, My, F Chapman,

Vie. Not

73 Field Naturalists’ Club Pracgcedings You. LIU.

ELECTION OF MEMBERS
On a show Of hands the following were duly clected: Mr. A. S.
Flemming, Mr. M. R. S. Shasland and Mr, P, E. O'Grady,

GIFT OF BOOKS

The President anounced that three books had been presented to
the Club by Mr. H. C. E. Stewart, and on the Cluh’s behalf thanked
him for his gift.

GENERAL BUSINESS

Wild Nature Show.—The Sub-Committee’s worl: was outlmed
by Mr. Ttyam, who asked that all members who could assist
should notify the Flon, Assistant Secretary, Mr. L. W. Cooper,

NATURE NOTES

Miss Thornton-Smith mentioned an albino blackbird; and
Mr. W. A, Ingram stated that one could be seen in the Botanic
Gardens,

Mr. F, S. Colliver, with the aid of the epidiascope, gave a note
on the Australian Dmusaur Rhoettosourns brow, nether remains
of which had recently been found in Queensland, The animal, was
possibly 50 feet long anc was a swamp-cdweller of Jurassic times.

The meeting then adjourned for the Conversazione.

- EXHIBITS

Miss Jean Galbraith—Acacta decurrens (specimens from old
and young trees) ; natural hybrid: A. Baileyann, A, dealbata, A.
longisatim, A, melanoxrylon and A. pycnautha.

Misses 1. and M. Knox.—Pinna sp., from San Remo; Paper
Nautilus, from Fhnders.

Mr. C. French.—Two rare plants, richie: fowtisteiras F, von
M., 64, and Goodewia modesta: both collected in Central Australia
by exhibitor, in September, 1935,

Mr, A. S. Chalk.—Limestone from Caye Hill Quarry showing,
tnler alia, coval and shells,

National Herbarium on behalf of Mr. Robbins, Orbost —New
Plant Record for Victoria: Korthalsella articulala Black (Syn-
Viscum orticulditiin Benth), “Joimted Mistletoe,” growing on
Eugenia Swsithit.

Mr. Jvo Hammet.—~Acacia longifolia. A, juniperina. A, armota,
A. proevissiine, A, hawilti, Grevillea pumecn, (=. olcoides, var.
dimorpha, G. alpesivis, G. alpina, G. dallachiana, G, thelinanniania,
and other plants,

Mr, F. S. Colliver—Fossils and matrix from Royal Park,
Cadell's Punt, at Morgan, S,A,; Forgyth’s,; Grange Burn;
McDonald's, Muddy Creek. Also Magnesium Limestone with
freshwater shetls from Broadmeadows,

Mr. A. Underwood—Euphorhia,

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL. LIT September, 1936
Plate VIIL

—

7 :
—
<a :

-

x
\ a
i
}

Fheto by C. Rarrett.
Arboreal Trapdoor Spider’s nest, with lid closed

t. . . , whe F
ae Barern, Stray Noles on Spiders “4

STRAY NOTES GN SPIDERS
By CHarLes Barrerr

Interest in speders has become so general in the past few years
lhe a popular huok on these “areglected’” forms at life was sure
af a welcome. In Spider Wonders of Austratia, Mr, Keith C.
MekKeown, of the Australian Museum, has provided a book that
was needed, He deals with all ile fannhar epecies, and others
rare or little known. He is a guitle ta what imuist fre a new world
to the majority af Ins readers,

Our Club may claim the distincuien af haying published mm the
Naturalist (Vol. xlix. No. 12, April. 1933) the first poputar
account of spider life in Victoria. Mr, L. 8, G Buller, author
of this articls, a minor munograph for the laytuan, has dene more
to popularize the spider in Victona than any other worker in a
Held still alinost untilled beyond the corners, He has promised
for our journal another paper dealing with the nests and spin-
ning work of spiders found around Melbourne.

Trapdoor spiders with arboreal habits have been discovered ;
ane specicy in the Belgiay Congo. another m Austraha. The
former has vet to be described, ad of the latter we have no know-
ledge, beyond that to be gained fram a study of irs dwellings.
In the Macpherson Ranges, southern Queensland, some years ago.
Mr. Sid. W. Jackson found a few nests ot a lrapduor spider on
the trunk of @ rowgh-harked tree, He collected some specimens |
ove is in the possesion nf Me. J. R. Ranway, of Sydney; the
others are preserved at the Australian Museum. Though the
niakers of these beautifully camouflaged nests were algo collected,
1 believe, no teace o1 them rewarded my inquiries. For the
present then, this remarkable form must remain “anonymous”;
bor at fs worth while to tecord the fact that Aysiralia dloes
possess a truly arboreal trapdoor spider.

The two photographs here repracduced doubtless are the first
of a tree trapdoor spider's dwelling ta he published, Even
wher the field is narrowed to six inches by four inches jt is
diffieudt to distinguish the west.and locate thie closed duor. On
a large tree unk, concealment is con)pletu, Only by chance 78
discovery jikely while the trapdoor remams elosed. “This surely
is one of the most perfeer eximples of camouflage in nature,

On Tambouriie Mountain, Queensland, now a popular resort
of Brishane folk, and Josme much of its wildness. the late Dr.
ROA. Pulleme, in 1912, searched ior Territellarians. He found
that epiphvtic ferns, huge bulks whose accunmilated weight at Jast
brings them, perhaps with the broken hranch. to the ground, forna
suitable nidus for same Vertitellariae, But epiphytic orchids and
ferns op the trunks of giant trees (Arancarra cenninghnnt) “were
searched in vain jur any arboreal forms of trapdoor spider.” In

, ’ 77 Vie. Mat.
ret Baaurrt, Stray Nates on Spiders Vol, LILLE

August this year | also went spider hunting on Tambourine
Mountain, and though the burrows of two or three species were
mumereus enough along the banks of an old disused road and
elsewhere, no arboreal Lrapdoor spider's dwelling was discovered.

Ina Brisbane garden, five ege-hags of the Magnificent Spider
(Dicrostichus magnificus) were found suspended from a Bougain-
villea stent. ancl embowered in heauty: the mauvyve-coloured
bracts of the eveeper {rained those shapely white cocdons.
formed hy the “Queen of Spinners,” unseen in her own lithe
yoom aboye the pendant nurseries, [ brought them down to
Melbourne: the mutli¢r magnrifiens aud her onhorn progeny.
There were severa) hundred egys in each cocoon fthe actual
nursery is a much smaller cotoon, pendant centrally in the vuter
envelope), and they hatched at the end of August. Many of the
spiderlings cure still alive, and presently jwill de liberated in my
glasshouse. | hope to acclimatize the Magnifieent Spider im
Melbourne.

Around Brisbane the Magnificent Spider is hecoming scarce,
Among its eiemies, the White-eye (Zosterops) has been observed
in the acl of laking saguificns, and perhaps is chiefly responsible
for the noticeable decrease in its numbers. Mr. Longman,
Director of the Queenslans) Museum, advances this view. He it
the authority on the life-history and habits of the “Queen of
Spinoercs.”

That the Recd-backed or Jockey Spider, called Katipo in New
Zealand, is a common species around Melbourne is indicated by
the number of specimens that are terwariled for mentificauon.
Often several, from different Jocalities, are received in one week.
Usually the specimens of Lacradectus hassel are alive and come
through the post in match-boxes or tobaceo tins. Odcasionally
the sender theughthully writes a waruimg on the inner wrapper:
“Live Spider, Open with Care.” But as often as not there is 10
indication of what the box or tin contains. A tively and aggressive
specimen of the deadly Funnel-web Spider (Atras vobustus) was
sent to me irom Sydney by a medical man who, of course, did
not forget to warn me—in large block letters on the tid: "Open
with great cave: It's Atrax.’

In ny own buckyard at Elsternwick Red-hack Spiders occur.
One had her web-shelter between two small rough stones ar the
edge of a rock garden pond; another was found among broken
flower pots piled in a corner. .

Mr. Lee Passmore, of San Diego, California, an aithority on
trapdoor spiders of North America, and the famous Black Widow
(Lacvodectus mactans) 3s interested in our Jockey Spider. In a
levter he remarks: “Ll haye read of several persons who have been
briten by the Black Widow. but none of the hices proved fatal
Nou doubt your Katipo is closely related ta (his species,”

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VOL. Lt September, 1936
Plate TX

Phato by C. Barrett.

Arboreal Trapdoor Spider's nest, with hinged lid held open

ble Hyam, Naroual MMauarncents ®)

NATIONAL MONUMENTS
' By G. N. Uyane

During recent years most civilized countries haye been investigat-
ang, preserving and generally protceling their relics of the past,
whether of hiunan or natural origin, Like we in Australia, ther
had found that protective legislation in relation to the fauna and
flora of their respective countries had prevented, or a! least
Jeferred, the extinction of rare species, and had created an interest
in living things aiiungst citizens who otherwise would not have
recognized their value, thus realizing that similar protection could
he extended to inanimate objects. On the ather hand, it 7s evident
that protective legislation. as it at present exists in Australia, as
not entirely adequate.

Nearly every day we vead and receive protests against destruc
tion of avenues of trees, the quarrying of interesting rock farma-
tions, the destruction of historical buildings, or the spoliation of
beauty spots which are entirely unprotected. The present wild
Hower and tarest protective Acts, for imstance, provide ior the pr-
tection of certajn species or areas, but they do not safeguard indi-
vidual specinens or groups of specimens which may he of scientific
interest or aesthetic beauty, while geological and Wittnrical monu-
metits are in no way provided for. These Acts also fail to provide
protection for, or provide for resumption of, objects that may be
on private property, however valuable they may le as natural
monuments of scientific. historical or aesthetic interest. In other
wurds, there is nothing to prevent a private owner removing and
destroying an wiigue tree, rock formation, Mistoric building or other
object, however valuable to the community it may be. At present
there ig ue provision made for a stafulory body to whem a public
spirited private owner may dedivate guch objects for the prurpose of
preserving them far all time and which possesses the means or
the technique necessary for their adquate protection Ir has also
heen forcibly hroucht to our notice in recent months that powers
possessed by public bodies aud departments are such that they
can destroy abjects which could be truly deseribed as tational
monuments and against such destruction the public in geneval have
no appeal. ‘hese disabilities seem ta have occurred in other
countries and resulted in the passing of legislation for the protec-

“fior of national monuments.

The United States of America were probably the pioneers of
nahonal monuments protection among English-speaking canntries-

In the United Kingdom a statutory body has heen created
entitled the “National Trust for the Preservation of Historic Buile-
ings and Srenic Beauty,” whose function is to select histori biildd-
ings and scenic areas which should be preserved as well as arcas
that are known to be the habitats of rare fauna and flora, ete.

‘Vin, Nut.
£2 VWyam, National Mowrnacnls Val Lui

Japan had provision for protection Jang before their 'Westerni-
zation,” and their present Act is a model of simplicity, covering
augh objects as indiidual trees, halitals 97 birds and even insects.
extreme range limits of certain of thei flora, trails and view
points in scenic areas, and the like,

The Committee of this Club tas irequently iad instanees i
vandalism, conscious end unconscious, bronght to iS fAotice,
generally aiter the damage was done, and consequently decided to
noalse strenuons endeavours to find a means of checking this wast-
age of national assets. Tu this end, a conference of representatives
of furly-three of the leading organizations in Victoria met at the
National Herbarium on August 12. The enthusinsiy splayed by
this meeting was surprismig and the conference resulted in the
formation of the delegates into a Conner! for the Preservation of
National Monuments with the following as a committee to prepare
data: Messrs. ). L. Menzies (Town Planning Association), §. R.
Mitchell (Anthropological Society). A. J. Swaby (heagne of
Youth), A, H, Mattingley (R,A,0.0,), Dr Sanderson (Victorian
Historical Society), and G. N. Hyam (F.N.C.), This cammittec
will collect dara from all countries who already possess protective
legislation and from these reports draw up proposals suitable for
Victoria or possibly Agsrralia for the approval af the Counedl, and
afterwards for submission to the Government.

One policy we are determined upon is the provision of adequate
innds for the protection of declared national monuments or
national parks as well as for other existing protective legislation.
The existing legislation for the declaration of, national parks
appears to he aclequate, thovgl the (otal area of such parks is
disgracefully small in Victoria, bur no permanent financial provi-
sion is made for their maintamance, Very small suns have been
granted at mfrequent intervals with the result that some are acti
ally unféenced. uccess is difficult ancl rangers are too few. Some
are dependent on revenie derived from grazing leases, which js
most undesirable on account of the conseqnant destriction af the
flora and ultimately che fauna.

The same starvation policy is applied lo the administratian of
the Wild Flower Protection Acts ané the Game Laws, successive
governments apparently overlooking the tact that money judici-
ously expended im these directions is In the nature of a capital ,
invesiment which in years to come will pay handsome dividends
not only in cash represented hy the dourist trade but also in the
mental aad physical bealth and welfare of the community. The
comnttee Seeks the co-operation of every member who can supply
data at regards what has been done in other countries and also
suggestions as to objects stutable for protection, and apart from
this every member can assist by active propaganda m favonr of the

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST

Plate X

VoL. LIII

September, 1936

X-ray photograph of Platypus

S. Fergua.

Copyright, F

a Fergus, X-Ray Photngraphs of Australian Animals BS

movement. Protection of all knids is obviously a tluty of all
naturalists, particularly field naturalists, who should prefer to sex
their specimens in (heir original position cather than in a museum.

X-RAY PHOTOGRAPHS OF AUSTRALIAN ANIMALS

Applied to the study af mammals. birds and reptiles, X-ray
photography in both convement awit highly interesterg. The
subjects arc unharmed and ean be kept “alive Tor further nse,
This, of course, is particularly important in the case af rare
specimens.

The small bones of some animals are rather diffeult 40° stacly
from ‘lissections; hut may be X-rayed and the photographs
enlarged if necessary, so that all the bones show plainly. This js
most important in the case of the smalf marsupials,

‘The easiest subjects for X-ray study are some ot the lizards, as
they remain still for relatively long exposures and better details
may be obtained on the film. A tortoise also is a pood sahject
when it can he persuaded to extend its head from underneath its
carajice, otherwise it is hard properly to distinguish the bones ot
the head and neck [rom the “shetl!’ whose structure shows up
well m the film. Opossum X-ray photographs are interesting,
especially of a Ringtail, showing the sesamoid bones at the joints
in the tail. :

Birds are rather different because much shorter exposures are
necessary in order toe Gvercome moverncut in the subject, One
method with hirds is to place them in a special box and watch
their movements on the X-ray screen in a darkened room, By
this meang all the movemenis iitay be followed at the one time.
Exposures for tnrds are as short as one-tenth second. A film
of a Magpie was fiken in one-quarter second and one of a looku-
Imitra in half second. Both subjects were pet birds.

Most interesting of all as the Platypus. The specimen used was
taken from a creek near Flowerdale, brought to Melbourne by
tar and returned to its batints on the following day. The
behaviour of the anal was good; it seemed to lke the cold
aluminium surface of the Alm holder, and temained sell while
successful exposures were made. The view fiom the: side was
taken by placing the Platypus ana slightly inclined piece af wood.
When the subject walked into uw auitable positien the exposure wis
matle—one second,

F. S. Fercus.

| The plate accompanying this article is @ notable contribution
to the Votwratist, which publishes the first X-ray photograph of the
Platypus to be taken. Mr. Fergus deserves our Seng recidatnns
on the ¢xcellent original work lie 16 doing in making X-ray films
of native mammals and birds—lLditor.]

a Lotritan, Torquay; el Sinupss of Sts Flam ice ae

TORQLAY: A SYNOPSIS OF ITS FLORA
lav Nogi. Lorajan

Turjusy if noted for its fossil cliffs containing humerous fossil
shells, ele,, Lut ts not sa well known for its flora as it should he.
Th ts very interesting fram an ecological viewpoint as it appears
to be the “jointing up” area of the 'sards area” of gur foreshore
and the forest areas.

Situated thirteen miles due south of Geelong. Torquay is on the
coast facing’ Bass Strait aud therefore the sea breezes have an
influence on the gruwth af its fota even more so than they have
on the foreshore of Port Phillip Bay, Daring the past fifteen
months | have visited thes locality about once every three months,
and have thus obtained a tairly good idea of its flora,

Torquay was settled during the early days of Vietoria and is
extensively cleared of tanber, Even duriug the last thirty or
forty vears land for ages thickly covered in serub and trees has
been transformed. being now either under crops or grazing cattle.
Clearing usually was carried unt hy firemg the land. After a fire-
hreak Had heen made-—-and this was usually about two or three miles
from the coast—a lire was lil and allowed Lo un, as oiten as not,
right down ty the sea-chifs. The land was then cultivated, but, as
it began to show a loss m yielding power, it was allowed ta revert to
hush. ‘The soil is of a hasalric nature, overtying limestone ¢lilfs,
hut towards Pt, Addis (about five niles west of Torquay) the soil
is sightly more sandy in nature.

As remarked betare, Verquay appears to be the “joining up"
section of the sands and forest areas, There is x decisive evidente
{this will he more fully explained ina Jater article) that the forest
must have extended to the left side of Spring Creek,

Typical forest plants, such as Burchardia wmtbeliata, Aneuillaria
dicicn, Micreserts scapigsra, Plerostyhs nana, etc., are all [ound
growing im the scrub along the foreshore where at interyals are
patches of wind-blown Excalyptus. The salt breezes tend to retard
growth and the height of the forest near Pt. Addis. which has not
heen cut or cleared, is tending fo be “eateu” away by this action,
except where it is protected im the valleys, In the “Ssolated forest”
area the trees grow to a umiorm height. The Eucalypts consist
miinly of Four species, EB. leweaxylow is hy far the commonest
speues, while Z, obfiqua, BH. macvorrhyneha and E, eleophora are
in smaller numbers,

Avacio is tepresented by five or six species and one variety.
They are not found massed together like the Eucalypts. Acacra
fycnanthe is by far the most abundant species. There are a few
plants of A verticilata and also its variely evonea, and these
occur in very localized places, 4. armieta is plentiful. more
especially to the north of Torquay itself, while 4. vernietfina is

ry Lovatas, Torquay: 4 Synopsis of Its Elora RS

typically a forest species growing rather plentitully around the
isolated forests near Half Moon Bay. ;

Thomasia petalocalyx grows profusely m ane spot only, and in
this area flowers have been collected for nearly every month of the
year, the main Ruwering season being January ta March,

A curious feature of this locality is its ssmiarity to the Giam-
pians in certai: respects, Last year /redia actilleadies was found
in this area, this plant before being only secorded from NW, and
SW, Victoria.

There is a good showing of Pimneleas of which P, serpyilifolia,
P. humilis and P. octophylla ave the mast plentiful. Aibertios
stvigta, H. procumbens, and H. sericea are plentiful in localized
areas, the lust-tuentioued forming bushes from 15-18 inches in
height.

Cme of the anomalies of the arca is a small patch of Caly/ren
tefragona. This species is found in one place omly—a_ small,
sheltered valley (behind Half Moon Bay) and is only 5-10 acres
in area, J have looked for this plant along the coast to Anglesea,
but have failed in find it, although there is a small patch of it
ahout two miles trom Torquay aloug the Torquay-Geelong
Road, Melalexca pubescens is very enomon and fortms a valuable
sand hinder, The flowermg period of this species at Torquay és
lengthened considerably and specimens haye been recorded far
May, June, September. November and January

Casuering siricta and C. distyla abound here, the former mak-
ing beattifully-shaped trees. “The male form would make a first-
dass garden shrub, but unfortunately it is not possible to rel) in
seedling stage which is male and which [emake. Correns are among
the shrubs growing in different situations, being found in gullies,
grassland and on the sea shure, C. alba grows night down to the
high-water mark and flowers as well there as it does high up on the
cliffs. C. rubra has a curious colour form which has a purple
tint in the Aowers and not the scarlet flowers which is the cominon
form. Salceolaceous plants grow plentifully, especially at the
shore of the creek and along with other plans such as. Zygophyl-
lnm, Apiin, Helichrysum, Selllern, ete. Colocephalus Brownii is
widely spread and useful to a certain extent as a sand binder,
forming rounded bushes hemispherical in shape 2-3 feet through.
This should make quite a good foliage plaut for gardens and Tam
told that they use it in Sydney for this purpose. Another species,
C. Jacteus, 15 a dwarf plant. [ have collected itn one smal! area
(2-3 sq, yds.) and that in one of the main streets of Torquay, but
have failed to find it elsewhere.

Epacris trpressa, a small bush 6-12 inches high and the colour
isa deep red, ‘This form vaties very little in the Torquay arva.

A remarkable fact 1s the rate al which the Bidgee Widgee
(Acueno songeiserba) has spread over the deserted land. Some

- op . * Vie. Nas.
BO Lininian, Torguav: A Syitapsis of [ts Flora Wel. Lt

blocks which were cultivated frve lo six years ago are now covered
with this pest and sheep grazmg on these blocks usually have the
lower portions of their legs covered with burrs, Two species of
Xauthorrhoea are found at Torquay, each in its own locality,
X. minor produces beautiful spikes up to sx feet high and X. avs-
frais up to eight feet. The Sea Llolly (4lvxia buaifelia) 15 com-
paratively rare, Some very fine specimens of this plant were found
ima sheltered spot just near the ochre mine. These plants were
from four to five feet high and six to seven feet through.

Pultengea daphuoiies is a spectacular sight when in flower
during September-October, A shrub af six to ten feet is literally
covered with golden and brown terminal clustered Howers,

The [ollowing list is not nearly complete but is only to give
an idea as to the flora of this area, and so far fifty-one genera have
heen recorded containing about one hundred and fifty epecies.

Provisional list of plants collected at attd near Torquay —

Fihices ~ Anguillaria diacia (R.Br)

Prertdnon agidiumun (Kuhn) — Burchardia sambellata (R.Br. )

Gramineas— Tricarvne clatior (R.Br)

Themeda tritadra (Worck} Caesia vittata (RRr.)

Spinifox hirsutus (abil) Bulboie bulbosa (Haws
(now S. wnermis Banks and = Dichapogon steicins (1. G.
Sol.) Baker)

Instichhs spicata (Greene) Amarytlidaccae—

Pow caexpitasn (G. Forst.) Hyposis glabitla (Rr)

Sporobolus indicus (R.Br) petacege—
Danthonia standanonlayts Patersonit glaucn (R.BY.)
R.Br _ Patersonie glaue Br,
ps yeiae ) { rchadiaceac—
Stipa pubescens (R.Br. ) ae antesntrore
Cyrperaceae— Ma he 4 -
Scirpus nadosus (Rotb.) Acamthns exsertus (R.Br)

Lepidosperma concavient A, reniformis (Schlecht.)
(R.Br) Eriachilus cuéullatus

7 ; : he Reicht.}
Galiia psittacovuiar (Labill ( laa
hh Ate psvioconiut {Teabill) Colademnia ditutata CORBY.)

da PA INE eter C. latifolia (R.Br.
tee HeMeRnts (DC. Diuris Nalintabiee (R.Br)
Xanthorrhoca minor (R.Br.) — Llerestylis nana (R.Br.)
X. Australis (R.Br) F. barhata (Linill.)
Lomandra filifornns — ( Bil- if matans (R.Br. )
tern), Lomamndtra fonyifolia 4» FO" vifara (R.Br. )
(Labill) fiuaceac—
Barliingia sessitifiora (Deng) — Linum marginale (A. Cann )
‘ LHanela Taxmanira (dwact Zygaplylloecae—
fom) (Hk) Zygophuthun Billarderi
D. revolute (R.Br) (13.C.)

Sept.
1986.

Rutaceac—
Correa alda (Andr,)
C. rubra (Sm)
C. rubra var. virons
Tremandraceae—
Tetratheca ciliata
Polygataccag—
Bredemeyera volubile (HI. )
Stachhoustaceas—
Stackhousia monogynta
(Labill)
Ftwannaceae—
Cryptandra anara (Sin,)
Spyvidiuent, parvifoliunt
(Fy.M.)
S, vexrihiferum (Reiss)
Steveultaceae—
Thomasia petalocalya
Lastopetaluin Baueri (Steetz)
(also white yariety)
Miileninceae—
Hibbertia cerivea (R.Br)
H.. stricta (12.Br.)
Hy procumbens (13,C,)
Vielaceae—
Viola hederaceae (Labill)
Casnorinaceae——
Casuarina distyla (Vent.)
C. stricta (Ait)
Prateactac—
Persoasig juniperinga (Lahbill)
Lsopagor coratophayllus
(R. Br.)

Banksia morgmata (Cay.)
Santalaceae—
Exocarpus cupressiforinuts
(Lahill)
Polyqonaceae—
Muchlenbeckia odpréssa ~
( Neiss)
Chenapodiaceae—
Airiflex conercum {Rair)
4. senubaceatum UR. Br.)
Salicorinia australis ( Sol.)
Rhagodia baccata (Lah.)
Amarantaccae—
Trichininm, mecrocephalan
(R'Br.)

Loviran, Torgray: A Sanapsts of Lis Flos'a

87

Thymeéladaceae—
Pimelea phylicoides (Meiss)
P.. actophalla (R.Br,)
P. fiava (R.Br.)
P. Serpyllifoha (R.Br)
P. letitis (R.Br)
Myrtacege—
Hncalyptus claeophora
F.iv.M,
FE. macrorrhyncha (Fx.M.)
&. obliqna (L’Herit)
E. leucexylon (F.v.M.) (alsa
pink variety)
Leptospermum laevigaturne
(F.v.M.)
L. scopartvin (R, and G.
Forst).
Melaleuca pubescens
(Schauer)
Calytrix tetragona (Lahill)
Baeckea raniosisvinin (A.
Cunn.)
Umbelliferac—
Hydrocaiyle laxifiera (D.C.)
Apium australe (‘Vhov.)
Epacridaceac—
Fipacris tnpressa (Lahilt)
Astroloma huanifucutst
(R.Br. }
Leucopogon virgatus (R.Br.)
L. parviflorus {Liudl,)
Printiacene—
Sanolis repens (Pers. )
Gentianacede—
Erythraea spicata (Pers,)
A pocynaccae—
Alyxia buatfohig (R.Br.)
Congolonlne eae—
Dichondra repens
G. Forst.)
Convolvulus erubescens
(Sims }
Labatae—
Ajuga austrahs (R.Br.)
Salonaceare—
Selanwn mgruat CL.)
S. avtewlare (G. Forst,)

(R. ancl

B38

Acsonceag (Ficeideae)
Mesembrianthemum australe
(Sol) (now Disphyyna
australe Sol.)
Tetragonia expansa (Murr,)
T. implexicoma (Hk4)
Caryopillaceae—
Sperguloria mebra (Camb.)
Ranuculacéag—
Clematis artstaia (R.Br)
Lauraccae—
Cossytha glabella (R.Br.)
C, melentha (R.Br)
Draseraccae—
D. Mensiesu
albiflora.
D. quriculata (Backn. )
D, Whittakert ( Planch.)
Pittosporaceae—
Bursaria spteosa (Cav.)
Rosacéag—
Acaeua Sauguisorba (Vahl.)
4, ovina (A, Cunn.)
Legitni nosae—
Acacia arnt (R.Br.)
A, -vernictfiaa (A. Cann.)
A. pyenastha (Bth.)
A, verticillata (Willd)
A, verticillata var, ovidea
(Bt. )
A, longifolia (Willd. )
Gomphoalobrum. mimzs (Sim,)
Davissia brevrfolia (Jind).)
Pyltensea daphnoides
(Wendl.)
LP. seabra (R.Br.) var. Biloba
(Bth.}
P. humilis (Bth, )
Dilleryia evicifolia (Sm.
DB. floribynde (Sy.)
D. cinerascens (R.Br.)
Plaivlobiunt obtusangalum
(H.K.) -
wainsana lessertifolin
D.C

(RoBr_) var.

Kennedya prostrata (1%.Br.)
Oxalidaceac—
Oxalis corniculeta (L.)

Lorian, Toranay, A Synopsis of Pts Flora

View Nut,
Vol. LI.

Scérophilariaceae—
Gratiola peruviand (L-)
Leattibulariaceae—
Ulricularia dichotoma
(Lalsill)
Mf yoporaceaa—
Myoporuant viscosmien
(R,Br.)
M. asulare (R.Br)
Ruliaceae—
Coprosma Billardieri (1k)
(now C_ quadrifida Rob.)
Cuitipanulaceas-—=
Wahlenbergia gracilis (D.C.)
Labelure gibbosa (abil)
Brunonuccne—
Brunonie australis (Sm.)
Goad eniecage—
Gooden. ovata (St, )
G, gentewlata (IR.Br.)
Selhiera radicans (Cav. )
Scaevala microcarpa (Cav.)
Compositae—
Brachycome graminca.
(Bv.M.)
B. (callina) perpusilla
(Black)
Mitlandinia. trilaba (D.C.)
Olearia axillaris (Fiv.M.)
Guaphatinen japonicum
(Thunb.)}
G. purpurcum (1a,)
Helichrysum apiculatum
(D.C)
H, seorpioides (Labill)
A. cmercum (F.v.M,)
Leptorrhynchus squamatus
(Less.)
Txodia achileaides (R.Br, )
Calacephigtus Broz
(Fiw.M.)
C. lactens (Less.)
Cotula coronopifolta (L.)
Senecio orarits (J, M. Black}
Evechhles prenanthoides
(D.C, )
Microsevis scapiyera (Sch.-
Bip.)

The Victorian — Naturalist

Vol. LIIT.—No. 6 October 5, 1936 No, 634,

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA

The ordinary meeting of the Club was held at the Royal Society's
Hall on Monday, September 14, 1936. The President, Mr. S. Ik.
Mitchell, presided, and about JOO members and friends were

present.
EXPLORER AND NATTIRALIST

An ijlustrated Jecture on “Major Mitchell, Explorer and
Naturalist.” was given by Mr. C, Daley, 2.4. Wt0s,, and-illustrated
hy the epidiascope.

The President tendered the thanks of the Ctul to Mr. Daley,
and suggested that the text of the lecture should he published in
the Naturalist. Members showed their appreciation by acclamation

Mr, C. Long, of the Historical Saciety, spoke appreciatively of
Mr. Daley's work.

VISITORS

A warm welcome was extended hy the President to Mr. Neville
Cayley, the well-known bird artist. of Sydney. Mr. Cayley, in
responding, expressed his surprise at the number present at the

mecting.
DONATION
The President announced that Mr. C. French had presented to
the Club a copy of 4 Nateralist in Cannibal Land, by A. S. Meek,
axl on the Club’s behalf thanked Mr. French for the gift,

BUSINESS FROM MINUTES

National Monuments. Mr. A, H. Chisholm showed pictures of
a number of interesting trees in Queensland and the National Park
near Sydney, which he considered worthy of consideration as
National Monuments.

Bustards or Plain Turkeys.—Mr. C. Daley reported having
received a letter from a tourist firm stating jt would do its best to
protect these birds i Northern Australia. .

CORRESPONDENCE

Yrom Mr. Noel Lothian thanking the Club for the good wishes
extended on his transfer ta New Zealand, where he will spend a

vear.
REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS
Reports of Ixcursions were given as follow Se water: Mr.
J. W, Audas; Cranbourne, Mr, L, W. Cooper for Mr. A. D, Hardy,

~ Td Nateralists’ Clit Proceedings bb pin

ELECTION OF MEMBER

Miss Ellen Clark, National Museum, Melbourne, was duly
clected as au Ordinary Member of the Clith

GENERAL BUSINESS

Mr. A. H.E. Mattingley mentioned the reported killing of whales
inside the Barrier Reef by Japanese, and urged that whales should
he fully protected in Australian waters. Tt was decided’ that this
matter he referred tn the Committee for consideration.

Myr, C. French drew attention to a newspaper cutting, a reporl
of police taking charwe ut a truck-load of Thraiptaimene at Stawell.

The meeting then adjourned for the Conversazione.

EXHIBITS

Mes. Fenton-Woodburn—South African Orchid (isa sp.) :
Fike snatls and pond life, from Goulburn Valley.

Mrs, J, J. Freame—Fungus (Pezisa sp.), séa-spiders, New
Cuinea Shell Money, and rings from Octopus suckers.

Mr, 1. J. Paton,—Plants from Boronia, including Euphyrasia
collina, Acacia diffusa, Craspedia uniflora (very large), Pui-
tenaca subwmbcllata, aud cultivated Boronia anemonifolia,

Mr, H.C. E. Stewart—Pherosiylis mians (Nodding Green-
hood) with variegated leaves, collected at Heathrmont.

M. Geo. Coghill—Grewlea rosmartnifolia, Acacia myrtifohe,
Micromyrtus cibaies, Tecoma australis, Eriostémon myoporoides |
all gardenegrown,

Mr. H. Dickens —Xanthorvhoca australis, fram Rosebud.

Mr. T, S. Hart (for Mrs, Birch, Tabherahbera)—Zieria eyti-
sordes, not often collected in Victoria.

Mr. L. W. Cooper—Flowers collected. by Miss M.G Campbell
from the temperate region of the Himalaya,

Mr. A. R, Varley. -Linestone from Cave Hill (showing Corals
and Stromatopora), Native Holly and Qualup Bell from West
Australia, 43

Mr. C, Daley —Thryptomene calycina (1. Matchellinna), Miero-
myrtus (Thrytomens) cihotus, Corria rubra, and Lhotskya
Alpestris (all first collected hy Mitchell in 1836); alsa Prostanihera
ratundifohka (garden-grown).

Mr. S. R. Mitchell—TVorbenite, a green-coloured hydrated
whosphate of copper and uranium, and adtunite, 2 vellow-coloured
liydrated phosphate of lime and uranium; both highly radinactive
minerals, from Mt, Painter, lon
_Mr.F. S. Colliver—Possil Ferns, Jurassic:. Sphenoptens s.,
trom Wonthaggi; Nevwrepteris moeana, from Gippsland ; Triassic
specimens, from. New ‘Town, Hobart; T/infelda Jancifolia, Sram
Beaudesert, Queensland. Carbo-permian: Gangamepterts spatu-
fate, from Bacchus Marsh. Pleistocene; Pleridiune aqoiliment.,
from Mt. Gambier. Sputh Australia. ¥

fet, '
186 Lwuovn, Nefes on Uirinvetaria 9

NOTES ON UPRICULAR/A, WITH SPECIAL REFER-
ENCE. TO AUSTRALIA, WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF
FOUR NEW SPECIES
By Franers E. Lioyp, psc. (Wales), bac. BLS.

Australia has itt certain directions a larger and more varied
assortment of Unieiaria, the bladdetworts, than any other patural
geographical area.

Many of the facts night become known ta anyone digging into
the taxonaimic literature; but many more would escape discovery~
This is partly due to the inadequate descriptions, unaceuimpamnied
by illustrations of provided only with poor‘and inaccurate ones,
hut more especially by the fact that the specimens im the various
Herbaria are, with few exceptions, woefully incomplete, In such
cases the mest interesting parts of the plant ave absent because
the collector has never troubled to gather them, As ‘the
majority of species grow in wet places and are very small, only
the flower on its slender stalk is seen. In collecting, the stalk is
grasped and pulled up out of the substrate, leaving everything but
afew fibrous “roots” (hut they are not roots at all), with every
delicate part stnpped away. By rare accident these delicate parts,
when the substrate is soft and yielding, as it rarely is, are very
necasionally preservecl.

In order to extend my knowledge ni Australian species, 1 have
examined all the specimens in accessible Australian herbaria, with
hul meagre mesults. Naturally and expectedly, the National Her-
barium, Melbourne, has yielded some returns,

The renowned hotanist, Baran Ferdinand von Mueller, was
au indefatigable student of the Australian flora and had many
correspondents all over the continent, Extensive collections were
amassed, Ehese containing types of vorr Mueller's descriptions of
new species. What is true in general is true in particular of the
genus Utsieulorio. But even these collections yielded not more
than a half-dozen plants with anything bevond the flower on its
flower stalk, For instance, on 4 sheet of some two dozen specimens
ot WU. atiifiera F.v/M., there was one single plant hearing 2 leaf
and two "bladders," “The plants are so small that these sought-for
parts were scarcely visible to the eye. When properly exanined
J was able to describe them, as will be seen later on.

I write somewhat at length about this deficiency in the specimens
of Utricularia in order to show my readers the necessity, if we are
to further cur knowledge of this interesting genus. af collecting
adequately. Directions for this are given at the clase af this
article, I azn very anxious to obtain suitable material in order te
amplify my own knowledge so that I may pass it on in permanent

1. Lam much indetited to the staff of the National Herbarium, Mel-
bourne, for courtesies extended; attd particulsrly to Mr PF, Morris,

a" " hWic, Nat.
92 Lion, Notes an titricytarie van Lait

form in which it can be’ generally acecssible. It is my present
purpose to describe the yeatures of various species of Utricularia
found in Australia in order to indicate haw those peculiar to Aus-
tralia differ Ivom those found elsewhere and how these differ
among themselves.

The genus Polypom plalyt——peculiar to Australiaseis essentially
a Utrictlaria and will be considered at the same rime, But to do
this we need first a general account of the genus.

GENEVAL CHARACTERS OF UTRrreuLaria
Forms Chiefly Frecly Floating
The WU. vulgaris type

There are in general two groups of species, one including forts
which grow as submersed farms, floating just beneath the surface
and some depth in quiet waters (with two exeeptions). They may
Roat quite freely (L/. vulgarisand U. flextiosa) or he more or less
anchored by special “branches” (néver by roots which are totally
lacking ), 25 in the case of LU. jnttermedia, or probably also U. exalsta.
The latter, found in Australia, needs mare careful study. The
above-mentioned two exceptions (U/. xeoliores, U. rigida) have
a haluc similar to thar of some marine alee, clinging by hapteria
to submersed surfaces (rocks, etc.) and living swept by running
water, the former in South America, the latter in Africa, In all
these forms the flowers are raised above the water surface on
scapes aided in some species hy floats of onc form or another:
swollen leaf stalks or the scape itself,

The rest of the plant consists of a more or less branching slolon,
as it is generally called, It is, however, not 2 stem, as ifs origin
and development show, but is rather of leaf nature, This stolon
bears, in the more usual type, alternating Teaves in two jateral
rows, The tip of the “shoot as a whole is curled (circinate}—
the whole is dorsiventral, This is very evident in such species xs
U. intermedia and U. minar.

The “leaves” may be either a simple once-forked member with
tapering segments or may be very complex, consisting of several
jorking untts side by side in a plane somewhat oblique to the hori-
zontal axis The extreme Jateral meotbers of the complex some-
times take the form of auricles: reduced fan-shaped structures,
close to the axis, best developed in OU. Thomningti. Tn various
positions an the leaf (in the forks of two segments; on or near the
hase of a segment) occur those peculiar structures giving rise
to the name bladderwort, viz, “bladders,” Jn the Gterature several
naunes are used, the best being “traps,” since, as a matter of fact.
we know they are true. very highly specialized traps, They are
hollow, provided with an entrance guarded by a door or valve,
attached by a hinge, its free edge impinging ou a special mass of

rane]

Leavy, Notes oan Utrientaria 53
cssue, the threshold, The trap is oblique in form as viewed laterally,
the entrance or moutli being on the shorter or stalk sfde, This
shorter side ts ventral, that 1s, faces the growing etd oi the axis
cr stolon. The traps appear mi various species in a great variety
of form, as will be seen.

The floral axis always arises from the upper surface on the
tiedian line of the stolon, unrelated in position to the leaves, ane
itself produces secondarily neat its base reduced stalons. with
reduced leaves, having the appearance oi claws. These are the
so-called “rhizoids” which appear to serve as prop supports for
the scape; but are far more efficient in land forms.

In the same position also are produced, in the true Aeating forms,
very slender long worn-like branches with siall, éritire scale
leaves each with several stomata. These were thought by Goebel
to be of service tm effecting interchange of gases between afr and
plant and so called “air-shoots.” They are very delicate and moe!
fragile when dry so that they break off or are hidden among the
leaves, and are scarcely ever seen unless looked for in living material
ubcer- water. 1 have found them cecently in df. fleruosa found near
Sydney. The apex of an air-shoot is inrolled as in the chief shoot.*

Ty somite forms there 1s a dimorphism of shools—there is (a} a
dursiventral foliage shout, beating (b} branches or cottinaations
with suppressed leaves, which penvtrare the substratum at the hot-
tom or sides of the pond in which they grow (1/7. seglects, UL inter-
wiedia, UF. oxolota, U, tutor), Mr George Taylor and [ haye
recently described an Angolan plant under the name {/ paradoxc,
in wiieli the chief stolons are all buried in the mud of sandy sub-
strata, with lealy shoots (like minute trees) sticking up inte the
water above,

Among the truly floating forms are to be found the largest
species—very leafy shoots over 3 feet lone, On the other hand
some of the species, such as U, eyniboather, @. olivacea (awnlaria
olivacca of Kuuienski), the foriner African, the latter Cuban, are
minute,

In the majority of the submersed fonus the Aower is. two-lipped,
the lower hemg provided with a nectar-bearing spur. In a few
species the spur is licking (UL. cynbantha, 7. biowdaria, LU sminer )
or nearly so (U_ orbicalate aff.) The flowers are usually pale or
bright yellow.

The above getieral descviptiou applies to a segregate of species
of which U_ wulgams or UF. flearaosa may be regarded as typical
Many species closely related grow as land plants—that ts, in 4 wel
but more or less hrm substrate—and some of these are the largest
and most showy in flower of all, eg., U remfarntts, mentuna, Hurn-

2 We we the terms "stenys,” “shoots,” “leaf” in mese descriptions in

disecgard of their morphological significance. Uhey appear to be mm the
farm of stent and leaves; while some stolons appear a5 “rowdy.”

34 Juan, Natex am (itrieuleria Ahn in

'

boldint of South Ameriga. In these so-called Jand or epiphytic
forms the stolons creep in wet dnoss. on a wet hoggy substratum,
of in the water held by the leaf-resettes of specics of the Bromeliads.
Their leaves may be large and of complex internal structure (U.
reuifornus), or may, at the other extreme, be very small and
ligulate or spatulate, often with stomata, However different in
superficial appearance the structure of the trap Cp: 96, figs. 9, 10),
is Me sane ue all, with the presently noted exceptions of U. qlobr-
Jartagfolia and U, Lloydit, Te is to be observed that the group
eanbraces submersed and lancl forms of very diverse appearance.
The U. purpreren type

This is strictly a new world type, found im North but especially
wt South Ameriva. The plants are ahways submersed and freely
fluating, or at best are anchored by skender shoots growing in soit
hottom nud, Their “leaves” are always 9 whorls, each leaf hearing
a trap at its apex, supported] by a very slender stalk. The traps
(p. 102, figs. 3,4) are quite peculiar to the type, Both stolons and
leaves are cylindrical, but betray dorsiventraltty in the character of
the vascular system, The apex of the stolon is cireinate. The
flowers are also distinctly peculiar in having the palate enlarged ty
form twa spindle-shapecl lateral pockets, found mm no other group,

No Jand forms of similar structure are known, In fact the struc-
ture of the trap would seer to Impose a coinplete hindrance to this
manner of habit. The presence of anthocyanin renders the whole
plant reddish in colour.

The U, twbuleia type

Ui tubwlata was deserthed by F. vo Mueller in 1875 fram material
collected by Armit “in mountain swamps” (v. Muciler) “near Cash-
mere’! (Armit) 40-50 miles west of Rockingham Bay, [tis a freely-
floating plant with whorled leaves each (?) bearing an apicat trap.
The scapes are ¢lub-shaped with Sarge air spaces and help to float
the flowers above the water surface, The Rowers and traps (p. 102,
fig. 9) conform te a type peculiar io Austyalasia, namely, to that
group of which U_ dichotome (a very well-known species of Aus-
tralia) is a very good example. The plane has never heen collected
since Armit found it before 1875 and sent it to Baron vow Mueller.
In the National Herbarium at Melbourne a very good series of
specimens is to be foaned (pl. X1}, but these, with specimnens at Kew
and the British Museum of Natural History, South Kensington,
are the only extant. Passihly vor Mueller sent specimens, as was
his habit, to Kamienski.

This type embraces one known floating species* with many land

3 &. coratophyltoides may be asecond, if Schwartz's opinion is justified.
He helieves it is a floating representative of the “primitive Australian farms”
which 2¢oup themsetves about U, bileby, But the latter is not af that groun;
dichotema wad better been cited, 1 have not yet seen the species. Tt war
fiuind near Darwitr by Mr. P. A, KL Bleeser, No. 484,

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL, Lill October, 1936
Plate XI

Utricularia Moorei, sp. n., and U. tubulata

t. L “es ;
Os Ltoyn, Notes on Desterkerta 95

species peculiar to .\ustralasia, One might venture the guess that {°.
tubulate is a land form taken to water and the floating habit, while
the wnigaris group may have been primitively water plants of
which some have taken to land. As observed, ('. purpurea is wholly
a water-dweller,

The Predommmantly Land Forts

These include types which are chiefly “terrestrial” plants, though
U. vulgaris and U. tebidate types have their land-dwelling relations,
as already shown above. There are other types, however, which
are never found as freely-floating plants, but always as land-
dwellers, whether covered or merely saturated with water. The
majority of the known species are of this character, but the
group, though ecologically pretty uniform, possesses a number
of distant sub-groups or types. These are not readily distinguish-
able by their parts other than the traps, as there is a remarkable
uniformity of leaf shape, while the flower structure shows no great
uniformity within each group, 1 therefore use the structure of the
traps in defining the groups, a method suggested by Goehel, which
has been forced on me by the facts, and which turns out to be the
most natural, though there are some parallels between grouping
by traps and grouping by flowers. The trap is indeed the most
characteristic feature of these plants and sets them apart from
others, It will therefore be appropriate to take this occasion to
describe it.

How the Trap Works

From this point of view there are two kinds of traps, or perhaps
we ought to say three, This point need not he forced, however, as
we shall see what is meant. The first kind is exemplified hy U.
vulgaris (p. 102, figs. 1, 2) and U. purpurea (y. 102, figs. 3, 4).
inuch different except as to the principle on which the trap works.
Of the second U. cernidta, U. capensis or (. cacrufea; and of the
third, confined to Australasia, (" dichotoma or U. Mensziesti will
serve.

Tire MECHANISM OF THE TRAP
The types U. vulgaris and U. purpurea

Disregarding the general form of the trap and having reference
only to the entrance mechanism, this consists of a door or valve
of approximately a quarter sphere in shape, or, as I often put it,
of the shape of the half of the roof of a bowler hat. One eclge of this
is attached to the wall of the trap just inside the entrance, the
middle point being forward at or near the edge of the entrance,
with the sides extending inwards (p, tO2, figs. 1-4). The other, con-
yentionally the lower, free edge rests on a thickened halt-circle of

ee Vic. Nat.
% Liove, Netes on Utricularia Mar LIL

Anatomical Structure of Bladders

Oct. . .
10g6 ‘ Lieve, Netes on Cliiearia 9

ussue, called by Darwin lhe collar, and whieh | call the threstintd
of the door; or if we used the term valve, its seat. Whatever we
call it, it has form and structure which permit the free edge of
the door to rest snugly against 1, alang a pad of soft cells with-
out cuticle called the pavement epithelium (Goebel),

The adjustmerit is, however, not perfect. The middle reach of
the door edge makes intleed 4 Sharp contact, resting in a shallow
groove which prevents the door, if undisturbed, from swinging
inwardly fp. 102. fy. 1). But along the lateral reaches the door
cdye lies flat on the pavement epithelium, so chat a fine probe may
he slipped in between the twa approximated surfaces, Now this
would seem unimportant, were it not for the fact that normally
there js always a mntrked water pressure against the outside surface
of the door in common with the total external surface of the trap,
This arises from the fact that the walls of the trap act as glandutar
lissue, exereting the walter frons the mode to he outside (Merl.,
Czaja, Nold)J—thus pumping the water out of the interior of the
trap. .

As this takes place, the side walls of the trap, hetng mechanicalhy
the less reséstant, collapse, as Brocher, a Swiss entomologist, first
noticed in 191). But collapse of these walls (so that they become
distinctly concave) would be impossible iW the door permitted the
leaking in of water, which in fact would take place along the Jateral
reaches of the door edge if not especially protected. “That they are
30 protected is i fact the case, far there is a membyqnrous structure,
a second valve in fact, which is attached to the forward edge of the
pavement epitheliuns, and seats itself along the whole of the line
of contact between the duur edge und threshold, effectively ‘sealing
the re-entrant chink (p. 102, fig. 1). Tresstire of water against (his
meinbrane (the velum) only presses if more firmly and increases
its effectiveness. | have proved this expermentally by cutting the
Near with a small, very sharp knife (an ophtholmologist’s “Grate”
knife).

After this operation the trap cannot reduce the volurne of water
within, so thal the sides remain convex instead of becoming con-
eave. And this means that the trap can no more work, since this
is the way the trap sets itself Jor the action of catching prey. When
set, the pressure of water within is much lower than without, soa
that, as above said, the outer water presses against the whole outer
suriace of the trap, and lersfore against the door.

The door, however, is so adjusted that this pressure cannot
moye it unless iis thrown slightly out of tts adjustinent. When
set, the mechanism fs in a state of “unstable equilibrium.” ta guote
Brochec, who was the first to recognize this condition, How, their.
is the mechanism theqwn out uf equilibrium? The dour is provided
wil a tipping, mechanism consisting of projecting suift bristles
which are inserted in the donr surface just above the middle port

US Lieve, Motes on Utricalaria J Me "ary

of the thickened middle reach of the door cdge and just below a
thin area of the door, making it here particularly exible. A very
slight touch of the bristles, no more than that caused by a copepod
bumping against them, is sufficient to disturb the door edge ever
so slightly so that the door cannot now resist the water pressure.
The water then presses it in very swiftly, and the inrushing column
carries with it the offending animal. Jn pushing in the dowr, since
its free edge is longer than the threshold measured from end to
end across the trap, it becomes folded or Iuckled along its nidelfe
line,

As the water column slacks, the coor closes again (hut 3 to 4
times more slowly) and returns by its own flexibility and set of
shape, into the fornier position and posture. Since the difference
of water pressure within the trap is thus reduced,,the pressure of
the outer water against the deor is now by no means so great:
and consequently the posture of the donr is somewhat changed—
it now stands somewhat forward but is still watertight. As the
glandular aerion of the walls pinnps out anew the water from the
interior of the trap, the door gradually assumes its set posture,
wheu all 1s now ready for another actuation. Merl found that this
resetting may take place in as short a time as fifteen mintites, batt
this is a minimauni figtire, thirty minutes being belter. The excretion
of water continues. until the cohesion of the water within balances
the forces acting in the opposite direction. The trap is then fully
set. The process of setting takes longer iy some species than
others—zg., in U_ purpurea about two hours.

Tr will he seen hy the figures that in this type the middle clement
of the door stands al an angle of about 90° with the general plane
of the top of the threshold. That is, the angle of contact between
door and threshold is a wide one (p. 96, ig. 1),

The second type

Tn the second jype this angle is a small one, and the water pres-
sure, evervthmg cqual, could inore easily force entrance. This is
met by a yreater massiveness of the lower part of the door which
produces a preater thrust of the middle reach of the door edge
against the threshold: and by a broad and more massive velunr.
Tn consequence of the mechanical conditions the pressure of water
praduces a greater change in door pasture as between the relaxed
(after actuation) and set condition, By photographing living traps
in both these conditions, the exact chiferences in posture have been
determined to a nicety, even in such a minute trap as that of 17.
lateviflora, an Australian species found gmwing near Sydney
(p. 102, figs. 10-12). ‘This was done during my recent visit there
(April, 1936).

Tn these traps also, when actuation accurs the door turns inside
out, Sa Eo speals, by the application of slight pressure against some

Occ
29386

Lacon, Notes on Utelcntorian oo
sort of inppmte mechanisin attached to the upper wide Aexible
region of the door (j. 102, fy. 2). This mereased localized pres-
sure causes sufficient cistortion for the water pressure to have effect
in folding the door lengthwise along its muddle line, pernntting it
tu spring aut of the proove formed by the threshald, In the second
type this is helped also, it is probable, by 2 slight forward displace-
ment of the niddle reach of the door edge, pving mre Freedom af
niovement,

The third type: U, dichotoma

Ti the species peculiar to Ansiralasra which conform to this type,
the angle between door and threshold is still more narrow, and the
change in conteur of the door as between set and relaxed posture
is very great (p. 102, figs 5a, h), Aside fram this we have to note
fa) the length of the door and its bent form so that the middle
piece lies parallel 19 the pavement epithehum (the threshold has a
hke bead in harmony with that in the door): and (b) the double
yeluni—in which the anterior part is circular, forming a frill abour
the door entrance; and the posteriar or inner part, filling the angle
beiween door and threshold. Pyecisely what the effect of the
former is we are unable to sy at the moment—expertinent is
needed. Tt may setvé to inake the trap watertight during the
extremely relaxed door pnsture—this is, liowever, only specula-
tien, The tripping mechanism consists of low trichomes lying in
a grup just above the bend of the door, where it is very Aextble,
Other trichomes oceur favther above. whose function we do mnt
understand, though it 15 possible that they serve ty render the door
more flexible iit this region.

Recent study of Polvpompholye leads me to regard the trap of
this plant as representing still another distinct amechanism, allied
to be sure to the dicholome type, but having o very different door
uction. Details of this, however, must await further study.

Th His account, am making no special mention of the problem
of cligestion. We inay take it for granted that digestion of one
kind or another does take place. The interiny surface of the trap
is ammed with “quadrifid" or “bifid” hairs (as Darwin called then),
which have to do with the absorption of the products of digestion
and perhaps also with the seeretion of an enayme.

Terrestrial Types

We now return to consider the land types in view of the above.
It is in these that a great variety of form of trap has come inte
heing, To recall, we here note that the U. purpurea type of trap is
not known to occur in land forms. There js one species, U, altvacea
(Giownlaria al Kamienski), allied gather to L'. velgaris, in which
(he tripping mechanisn hes inserted in the widdle point of the
door (p. 96, fig. 11). But this is also @ water plant. It is not diff-
cult ta speculate why these species are only water plants, as the doar

100 Liovn, Netes on Uirienlariv vie. as

lies much expased and could easily be blocked by particles of
earth, etc, and rendered inoperative,

In addition to the entrance mechanism there are other ieatwres
which can only be particulanized. These consist of projections,
ranging from small sessile glabose glandular hairs (eg., U, fatern-
flora) to multicellular structures of considerable size and ¢om~
plexity. These in such forins as UO. wttlgarts, the first known, have
been called antennae (Darwin), being two tapering and branching
affairs, one on cach side above and at the side of the entrance
(p. 96, fig. +). But their variely will be noted as we proceed, and
nore easily by following the fgures, The type U. vulgeris has many
terrestrial representatives. In the more distinetly terrestrial such
as U remjorms (South America), and in many others, the pluniose
anlemmae are supplanted by simple ones tightly curved over the
entrance which is smaller. The door, we may believe, is thus better
protected from blocking. As many land species ag there may be,
there are fewer of these than of those with a narrow doar—thres-
hold (briefly d-t) angle (p. 96, fy, 4), There are very few in Aus-
tralia, U_ biloba is, however, one known example (p. 102, hg. 11),
Mf Lewsent Lloyd (see below) another, The former grows in wet,
sandy bags, the latter anchored tm sand or mu) in water, and fully
submersed. :

In the following paragraphs a general review of all the varieties
nf traps of the more sirictly land forms will be given,

Latkh Forms qwith Wide d-« Adele

There are many species with taps practically identical in sirue-
ture with rhose of 26 culgurm. Vhere are, however, seme cursus
departures,

(7. nana, South America, while evidently allied to L'. vulgaris,
has a tripping mechanism af two bristles of particular structure
(p- 96, fig.'5). In common with C/. cornifa, it has 16 appendages.
In spite of this position in this account, there is evidence that this
ypecies is rather of the narrow ¢-t type

U. globulariacioha, New World tropies.—-This represents i sniall
segregate in which the trap has a more or less bifid overhang and
a long funnel approach io the doar. This furmel is lined with long
curved plandilar hairs. The door is massive, this being evidently
telated to the thick walls (q1, 96, figs, 7,8).

UF. Lleydit Merl., South America —In this the traps are of two
lands (qj, 96, figs. 14, 15}. one being clothed with only sessile hairs,
but having a single tripping bristle, (he ather having stalked tri-
chomes and with no tnpping bristle.

Loud Portis with Norrou yl-t Atigle
U. caraute. New World—The trap has ao appendages. ‘brip-
png mechanism, a group of sessile glands (p 96, figs. 2, 3).

t. ; oa He >
Oct LLiovp, Notes on Utriculiarie 101

U. longteiiata, New World. Trap 0:5 mm. The middie part
of wall above the entrance ts prolonged as a rostrum. Below there
is a second (ventral) rostrum bearing two laterally projecting
prongs. ‘Phe tripping mechanism is a single glandular hair.

U, peltata, South America.—The trap is much like those typified
in U7, capensis (q.v.). The entrance is at the bottom of a funnel-
like opening lined with rows of glandular hairs. The tripping
mechanism is a proup of large sessile globular hairs.

The above exhaust the New World lot. In the Old World are
the following :

U. Deightenit Lloyd and Taylor, West Africa.—Of the same
door structure as (7. pelfata; in both the tripping mechanism is a
group of sessile glands, placed on the upper more flexible part of
the door: otherwise like (7. capensis.

{'. capensis, OU. Welwitschii, Africa.—The tripping mechanism
is a peculiarly-shaped hair which T have called the “kris trichome,”
heecause of its similarity in form to a Malay kris. [ have shown that
disturbing this actuates the trap (p. 96, fig. 16).

U, albtda, Asia.—Door like C'. peltata, but the circular edge of
the upper part of the funnel leading to the entrance is prolonged
into a long rostrim, shaped like the beak of a toucan (p. 96, fig. 6).

C7. caerulea, Old World, Africa, Asia, Australasia—vVery like
(. cornuta, ut with two unbranched antennae, downwardly
curved (p. 102, fig. 13).

(1. Nirki, unique; Central Africa — Ry unique | mean that there
is only ene species known which has the peculiar form of door
possessed by it, The tripping mechanism is two bristles set at the
lower limit of the thin flexible upper part of the door, which, in its
lower region, has two swellings with a middle groove between.
making the door flexible along the amddle line or axis (p. 96,
fig. 9),

' orbiculafa, Africa and Asia,—The tripping mechanisin is very
cuticus, consisting of two trichomes which break out imta beauti-
fully-shaped gelatinous horns, and a third wiulet-shaped trichome.
‘There is a supplementary velum, derived from the glandular harrs
in front of the pavement epithelium (p>. 96, hg, 13).

(, calliphyse, Ceylon, Burneo.— Narrow det tingle. Very minute
(5 mm.) trap with a rostrum abuve and two lateral combs of
wlandular hairs leading obliquely up to the lower edge of the
entrance and with a row af tibereles abuve and on each side of
the entrance (p. 96, fig. 12).

(', amultieaulis, North India-—Unmique im having a large fan-
shaped rostrut bent down in front of the entrance (7. 102, fig. 14),

Types of Australian Land Forins
U. laterifore.—Sinilar to U. calliphysa and (\ longicilivta. 1
have studied living material, and have found the postures of the

fie. Nat.
Lau

Lyi

Lrovn, Notes on Utricularia

102

Anatomical Structure of Bladders

ee Licya, Natos on Utrreuliric 108

(aor to be as geen in the photographic figures, The trpping
mechanism is 2 group of transversely clongated glands on the thin
upper part of the door. This is the only known species of this kind
in Australia, only three being known in all (p. 102, figs. 10, 12)

UF, bileba.— As above noted, has traps of the U. velgaris type
(wide d-t angle), in particular resembling rhose of L!, reniforvtes
(p. LOZ, iz JL). Here we mention again OF. Lawson, even if not
strictly a land form,

UU. mlaneed. —Like U. caerulea (p. 102, fy. 13),

U, dighotoma (p. 102, figs. 6-8) —This strictly Australasian type
is represented by a wide range of species, ome rather large, with
showy flowers (U', Singeriana, U, Wallichiena, etc.) and traps of
quite peculiar construction. Ag noted above, the door is always
transversely bent near its freé edge and the threshold deep and
correspondingly bent; the vetum is double. As to these features
there is uniformity, Buc the opposite is true of the external appen-
dages, Basically Uiere are five, a single median rostrum, and twe
pairs of wings, dursal (above the entrance level) and ventral, helow
the entrants, running Trem the stall toward the entrance, They
are well seen in U, dichotoma and U. Meinsiesit, (In New Zealand
in WU. novec-zealandine and U. delicatula, and perhaps others. )
In these-the wings are faciniate or deeply toothed. Their pusture is
such that tiey spread out laterally, forming wing fences which
may be thoughi as guiding prey to the entwance. In many species
they cannot have this effect, because of their shape or position or
absence,

The traps of only a few species are known, and I have been able
to see only three kinds in the living candition, vie: LU. omonanthos,
grown for me from seed at the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens, 1.
Mensiesit anc U. dichotonw., Material preserved in fliid of the
U. Mengiesit mawimshos, diehotama, volubilis have beer: supplied
hy Australian friends. (Some of this material was collected in
Australia _yeats ago by the late Professor Karl von Goebel, my
leacher and Hie-long friend, and one of the greatest botanists of
all time.) Since arriving here I have been able to examine tlic
collectiotis th the various herbaria, and have found the. traps of a
jew species. The following different forms have been seen:

(a) The ventral wings are contracted longitudinally and are
entire, forming two spreading flaps just abuve the stalk. The dorsal
wings are reduced to slender antennae of the same shape as the
toztrum, but with distinctive curvatures. U/, capilliflora F.v,.M. and
U_ Dunston V, E. Lioyd (p, 108, fig. 5).

(b) The ventral wings may be entirely absent, only the dorsal
wings and rostrun) being present. The dorsal wings may then be
flabelliform and laciniate (€/. Maorer sp. u.) or reduced to slender
antennae (U. Singertane), U, iubulata, previously mentioned as
a figating form, alsv.presents this condition, the three appendages
being very long and quite thick (qs. 102, Ag. 9).

> ' i > thee
104 Liayvn. Noles on UVeriewerte Vos ie

(c) Or agam, the ventral wings may also he reduced to slender
spur-like appendages each ending a low ridge, a ventral wing
nineh reduced otherwise, At the ether extreme, both ventral anil
dorsal, wings may he flabelliform and very ttciniate, while the
rostrum is reduced to a mere stump (4, wlivfiera, U, Haltset)
(p. 108, fig, 17),

(d) Both ventral-and dorsal wings ace prominent and slallowly
laciniate (U. dichotoma, U. Monstesit) or Rabellate and deeply
laciniate (U. fastocoulis) (p. 108, fig. 16}.

There are many species in Australia of whose traps we have
no knowledge at all, atid what other permutations can be expected
i them, one cannot guess. -

Polypompholys—-Ol this genus there are recugnized two species,
mulizfda and tenella. the fatter scarcely niore than a small replica
of the former. me

Approach: to the entrance proper (p. 102, fiz, 8) is made by puss-
ing backward or forward beneath lateral wings, and so to a sort of
antechamber. Long glandular hairs pointing towards the door
facilitate movement towards it. On the swollen region of the stall
there is a transverse double or treble raw of stiff bristles. which
appear to act as directive to the movements of prey. ,

Another comb of bristles runs along the top of the stalk under
the rostrum, in such a fashion ag Lo divert the prey directly towasd
the entrance, The actual entrance is sniall, The fawer part of
the doer ties curved downwards over a marrow ridge of the
threshold in the set postive. After actuation the door is also curverl
downward jn front of the threshold, There is 4 peculiar velum,
the effective blocking of in-leakage being brought about by the
supplententary action of numerous Tong glandular hairs. In trans-
verse section the trap is seen to be three-sided, quite different i
this from all other utricithiurias. When the trap is set, the walls
are concave, more especially the side walls, the top wall being less
responsive, ;

The traps are mdeed very peculiar im form. The eftrance
mechanism, though unique iuémany of the structures, probably
acrs asthe U_ dichetame sart of thing does, but remains to be invest}-
gated. Otherwise the plant does not distingnish itself from UU trtci-
larta.

The trap 1s anarropous, the stalk and entrance bemg approxi-
mated, A flat forked rostrum makes contact and presses down on
the stalk, whieh is locally swollen atid possesses a luge air cavity.
There is a pair of Jarge dnwnwardly-curved dorsal wings {p. 102,
fiz. 5).

A Few Notes on Ausiration Speries

| have already noted the pecuharities of the traps of Australran
species, related to U/. dichotoma, and woe hitherto described. The

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL. LIL October, 1936
Plate XII

Utricularia Lawsont, sp.n.

a . - - ~
tae Latsb, Notes on Utctpuloria Ws

following observations are general in aature, subiwited mm Le
hope ot stimulating interest in the adequate collection of material.
Even dried specimens. yield the information desired—-not, however.
as when preserved in fliud, or even when dried without pressure
and trarismetted tn Little boxes,

U, pvgintaca KBr —Brown's description contains nothing about
the vegetative parts. The material (fragments of stolans; flowers)
in the Nativnal Herbarium, Melbyurne, indicates the plant 3s
similar to OG. exeletas The specimeti I have seen was collected in
Lake Wiliams Ennasleigh River Gorge hy Alquist. 826. This, ora
elosely-related species (and probably others alsu), ts responsible
for the destruction of the tadpoles af Bufo marina, a toad imported -
to contral insects infesting sugar cane. The front end of the head
or the.end of the tail is. sucked inate the entrance. Captured in this
way. the aninial soon dies: This information was supplied by the
Oueenstand Department of Agriculture, ta whom Jam indebted
for many courtesies. It is well-known that mosquito Jarvae are
caught,-but not in sufficient quantities. The traps appear to be:of
identical structure with those of the 7. ,gibbe (p>. 102, figs. 1, 2).

U, dichotona,—tn the Sydney Herbarium [ saw a specimen
found at La Perouse, N.S.W., with very large ligulate leaves.
The plant looks as if tt had grown under water. Observations on
thig-matter would be of interest, as this species usually prows in
wet, sandy ar hoggy soil

UO. albiftoyy.—F ound along the Adelaide River by Hottze. This
is a mihute species with the lower corolla lip Ave-lobed (7. 108, fig.
17}. The trap is of the dichotoma type. The ventral wings are low
sidges ending in slender antennae, while the dersal are also anten-
nae-like (p. 108, fig. 17). The ontogeny of this plant (or-of capilli-
flora and the like) would be very valuable for throwing fight on
the life cyele. It would be necessary to collect material very care-
fully so as ta preserve the seed (embryo) which probably remaims
attached to the mature plant. Youny stages would be better

U. biloha—This species and many others have nymeroys
“rhizoids”—stolons arising secondarily from the base of the scapes.
Ton U, Wallichiane they have numerous short secottdary branches
covered with sessile mucilage glands. Most of the time these are
the only parts pulled out of the ground whet the flower stalk is
pulled up, and have usually been called “rootlets” or “roots.” These
are not roots, and only simulate ther, Their stroctuce os ofter
destroyed by indifferent epllectiny- ,

U. Campbeltiana Oliv —This plaut has perhaps the longest and
most graceful spurvof its large. beaytiinl flower. The traps are of
the ceerniea type.

4, Material seit me by Mr. J. Harald Sih, Department of Agriculture
Atherton, Queensland, shows thal this view ts correct The seeds are’ Cun
cavo-conves atid winged about as usual in Lhe group.

106 Leoyn, Notes on Utrienlaria vei Shan:

U. Mwbulate—As above noted, this plant has traps of the type
of LU, dichotant, ut with two long unbranched antennae and a
similar rostrum. Jt was found by Armit in the region of Cashmere,
Queensland, “in mountain swamps,’ and was described by von
Mueller in 1875, wha makes no mention of traps. The turgid
hallow scape acts as a Apat, levitating the rest of the parts which
are submersed. The “lenyes’ are in whorls, hut we do not kiiow
if each leaf bears a trap. The figures (pl. xi, figs. 2,3) are shadow
pictures of the type amaterial m the National Herbarium, Mel-
hourne, where all the material lies except small fragments found in
Kew Herbarium and in that of the British Museum of Natural
History. No other specimens exist, and it hag never been collected
since before 1875. The flawers appear to have the form and enlour
of thase of the dichetoma. It is very desirable to find new Jovalines
for this plant, and to collect carefully a siwall amount of it preserved
in 70% spirit (preferably) or m 50% formalin. I am particularly
anxious to get material of this plant. We do not know whether it
is quite freely Aloaling or is more or Jess anchored or how. Observers
im the Cashmere Station region (45-50 miles west of Rockingham
Bay) are urged to assist in throwing light on this matter.

U. capillifiore F.y.M—This is a very extraordinary plant and
night well, in the hands of a De Candolle or Lehmann, be used
as the type for a separate genus, As the figures (p. 108, figs. J, 2,
12) show, the flowers are not closed by a palate (but the precise
relative position of parts cannot be determined from dried
material). The flowers are minute (2-4 mm,), The apper corolla
hp consists of “twa long haiclet-like segments” (F. van Mueller in
the Fragmeita) joined together near the base by a web. The lower
corolla lip is palmately deeply lobed into finger-bke segments. The
tipper part of the spur ss widely inflated, the lower part forming a
double sac (in the drier material Jookang merely emarginate), The
form of the trap (determined droit one luckily-collected plant) is
noted above.

Among the sheets of specimens in the Melbourne Herbarium 3s
ave which was lubelled LU, repillifiora by von Mueller, but which
turns out to be quite cistinet.

It is not surprising that this should have been thought tu le
U. capilifiora, since the whole aspect of the plant is the same, even
to the two hair-like upwardly-pomting floral appendages, It turns
out, however, that in this species these are lateral lobes of the
foxer corolla hip, which here is triangular with two other obscure
literal lobes (p. 108, fig. 3). 7 propose this as a new species.

Uirleularvia, Drantslant, sp. 1,
Alive, scapu uno, unifiore, 10 vem, alto, capillart.. Squamae
hastfisce, late tiangulares, trilobatae, medins lobys magnus,
oftusns, lateraleg lobe minuts. Flos 4 anr lovgus, apperneticulis

Liovn, Notes on (trieuwaria har

capillaribus erectis, 40 man. foagis, ex labro inferiorve coroilue.
Corolla infertore labro trtangulari, acute. duobus lateralibus lobis
brevibus, bast duobus eapilaribus lobis, valde longis (40 man.)
supertore labro ovali, iIntegre, margiue inpolitto,

Annual, with a single hair-like scape surmounted by a singly
flower 4 wim. long, exclusive of the upright hair-like extreme-
lateral lobes of the lower lip of the corolla; lower lip triangular.
5-lobed, the median and two distal lateral, small and blunt and
two very long (4 cm.), forming the upright hair-like antennae oi
the above-mentioned upper corolla hip, in these characters differ-
ing from U, capiliifora F.v.M,

The scape ts anchored by radiating obliquely-growing rhizotds.
The traps have the same form as those of capiliffera, The triit
is the same (p. 108, figs. 1, 4, 5).

Found by N. Holtze (No. 1340) along the Howard River.
Northern Austraha, 1891. Flewers with “yellowish-brown coloar."
Type in National Herbarium, Melbourne; co-type in the British
Museum of Natural History. A stall, delicate plant about 10 ¢m..
tall, or much stualler, of like habit and very similar to U. capilliflora
F.v.M., but differing maternally from that species in the shape of
lower corolla lip, which is triangular with two small lobes and two
very long antenna-like lobes—+t em, long. These lobes, therefore.
arise from the lower lip anc not from “the apper portion of the
corolla” as in capilitfora (F, von Mueller: Journ, and Prac. RS.
NUS.W., 24: 176, 1890). “Phe stent (scape) bears a whorl of three
triangular three-lobed Ilantish bracteoles at the base of the pedical.

This plant is named for Mrs. William Dunstan, of Melbourne,
whose sympathetic attitude has done much to foster the love and
appreciation of natural history,

U_ Mvoret, sp. 1.

A single sheet carrying two specimens of a plant collected by
Mr. Charles Moore, former Curator of the Sydney Herbarium, in
Eastern Australia about 1885, cannot be referred to any known
Australasian species. Thotgh reyvretfully lacking flowers and fruit
the specimens are so good as to permit an acute diagnosis, showing
as they do the habit of the plant as a whole, its leaves, and, excep-
tionally enough, its traps, which are exceptionally large and with
unique character.

Ctricufuria Mneres. spa,

Stolones herizautaliter exteust. stigulis folits in superiore super-
ficie late separatis, Folta clongata, spatulata, obtusa, 6 cm. long,
valde longis (3 min.) pedunculis, duobus utriculis basi cujusque
folii, Utriculi magni (4:5 ani. longi ¢xelusis appendiculis)
obliqui, rostre valde lonyo (3°35 atan.j, angustissimo ct duabus alis
longts flabellatts lacnuatis dorsalibus in eavteriovem ct supertorem
partem curvatis,

Vie. Nat,

108 Liovp, Votes on Utricularia vil. LUL

Anatenucal Structure of Bladders,

eM Liovy, Notes an Utricularia 109

Stolons spreading horizontally, with leaves arising singly from
the upper surface at considerable distances, elongate, spatuate,
obtuse, 5 cm. long, with a patr of traps arising from the stolon
laterally at each leaf base; traps exclusive of forward projecting
appendages (large and conspicuous) 4:5 mm. long, oblique, with a
rustriim and a pair of flabellate and laciniate dorsal wings, reaching
sideways and upward, 3-5 mm, long. No other species with traps
of this character is known. Flowers and fruit not known (pl. x1,
fig. 1).

Found by Charles Moore, former Director of the Botanic Gar-
dens, Syduey, in “East Australia’ about 1885, though the date is
not indicated. The label of the type specimen, which ts in the
National Llerbaritum, Melbourne, is in von Muceller’s writing, The
co-type is in the British Museum of Natural History. Shadow
photograph of the co-type in the Kew Herbarium. This species is
based principally on the traps, which differ from all other known
traps of the distinctly Australasian group of species of which this
is one. Its habit is that of U, wonanthos, hut the leaves are longer
and more distant. Judging from the state of the specimens, the
plants were found growing in soft mud and submersed. The trap
is shown in figure 9, page J08.

i. Hamiltont sp. n.

A\ single sheet contains several specimens of an unnamed species.
T call this (. Hamilton, sp. n., in honour of Mr. A. G. Ekumlton,
veteran Australian botanist.

Utricularia Hanuttont, sp. a.

cluaua parva (5 cm, vel minus). Rhisoides ev basi scapae. Polta
fom, langa, Timi, laia, subspatitlata, acutixsiine apiculata, Utrieuli
feirea 3 mut. langt) vostro stmplice attenuata et duobus antennas
simplicibus attenuatis. Squamae triangulares, acutae, basifixae.
Flores solitarti. Calyx: superiore labro integro, ovato,; inferiore
labra cmtarginate, 1 imi. lange; corolla: inferiore libro integro,
late extenso, 7 min, longa; supertore labra profunde biletuato, lobts
subulatis, 1°35 mar, langis, extensis: catcari yracilt, acnto, breviore
pana dabrune sicperioris corollac.

A small plant—5 cm. or less. Annual with rhizords from hase
of scape. Leaves (1 em. or less long, 1 an. broad) slightly spatu-
late, long, apiculate, Bractéales triangular, acute, fixed at the hase,
Flowers solitary; calyx: upper lip ovate entire; lower lip emar-
ginate, 1 mim, long; corolla: lower lip cutire. spreading, 7 mim.
long; spur slender, acute, shorter than the lower corolla lip, upper
lip deeply lobed, the lubes awl-shaped, 1:3 mm. Jong. spreading
(p., 108, figs. 13-15; pl. xi, fig. 1).

‘Yraps 2 mm, long, with a long sleuder rostram and two slender
antennae (representing the dorsal wings) (py) TOR, fig. 8b. iran
Hot know.

110 Liovn, Notes on Utrtentaria ey: at

Holtze, 1861, “near Adelaide River,” flowers “light mauve.”
Type in National Herbarium, Melbourne. Co-type in British
Museum of Natural History.

10°. HMamiltent, Shadew picture, co-type, 2. 0, Lawsani, Shadow picture,
to show clearly the habit of the plant.

f°. Lazsent, sp. 1.

When collecting in campany with my colleagues m the Depart-
iment of Botany, Sydney University, I found a plant which I knew
at once to be undescribed for Australia, and appeared ta be identical
with (. paradova V.loyd and Taylor (in press), a plant of Angola,
West Africa. On examination it turned aut to be quite distinct,
Unfortunately, na flowers were seen, perhaps by reason of the
season. A few days later one of the Botany stati, who had noticed
the plant fn a pond in Centennial Park, Sydney, brought in a fine lot
of material. [ have named it m honour and in remembrance cf
Professor Anstruther A, Lawson, lite of Sydney University, whose
memory ts still green in that institution. In spite of lack of flowers
[ venture the following diagnosis:

Chicilaria Lawsont, sp. u.
Valde sinulis Ctricularive paradovac sed videtur mudte robustior,

puene carens sctosttate illins speciel, i.e., U. puradorac. Seguienta
ferminatia foliorum satis ylabra. Flores et fructus ignoit.

Plant with the habit of the Angolan U. paradora F. FE. Lioyd and

4

yah Lao, Nales on 'ieicularia ith

Gs. Taylor (pl. xi, hg. 2), but differing from that spectes im the
absence of stiff sharp trichomes on the segments of the leaves, im its
size, which is much larger, and in bearnny traps sparingly on the
leaves instead of only ot) the stolons. There are two sets of stolons,
tlinse which rtin more or less horizontally in soft mud or sand, and
bearing nnmerous traps of the yu/gares type (uy 102) and resemb-
fing in particular those of U. resepinala (p. 96, figs. 4,10), From
the horizontal stolons arise vertical ones bearing leaves, and these
arise upward (resembling liltle trees) in the supernatant water
This plant was collected Jong ago by Mr Charles Moore, as is evi-
dent fromm a'smegle fragment which was cut off [ram a specimen
fioated aut on brown paper, and is now in the Melbourne Her-
Warium. Type material (pl xii} in British Museum of Natural
History. Co-types at Melbourne, Sydney, Brishane, Perth and
Kew,

Only two species in the world are so far known, From the struce
ture of the trap they are evidently of the vulgaris group, with,
however, -the pecuhar, above-sroted habit. Tlowers and fruit
anknowr,.

Notre

When collecting Usvewlaria, in addition to herbarium specimens,
some good, entire material should be preserved in fluid (75%
aleghol, ac 5% formalin, thé former preferably). Abnve all in
importance js the adequate collection of the buried parts of Jand
forms. Bits of the soil must often be carned home and the sub-
stration freed from the underground paris with great eare. Rin
ning water helps; arid one plant thus rectivered is better than a
dozen carclessly pulled ont, Sometimes, when the substrate is. soft,
it cau he washed away in nearby water if available. “The specirnen
should not be allowed to dry, but be placed at orice in the preserya-
tive. In case of floating forms, one shotild rot pat t6o much in a
bottle, as it dilutes the fluid (oo much. Tt can. of course. be changed
jute fresh sulutjen.

KEY TO LLLUSTRATIONS

Page %
1. Diaytams of the darrow door-threshold aligle type, above, and below, of
the wide door-threshold angle type, of entrance mechanism, 2, U, curnnta,
trap. 3. Sagittal section of entrance of sane. 4. U. rxeeurvata, OU. Larwsont.
5.0, nana, 6, U, albing. 7, U, gtalularinefolia. 8. Sagittal section of entrance,
VV. globulariactolia, 9 UW Kirk. Right: transverse sections through the
door. 10, LU. vecurvata; U. Lavwsom, 11. U. (Biovnlaria) altvacea. 12. U.
calliphyse, 13. WU. erbicntata, 14, UL Lloydti- one of the dimorphic types.
15. U; Llovait, The second type. 16. U/, vapernsia.

Page Li

\. Entrance mechanisms, U, unlgaris type. The doar a set posture. v. vellum;
3, 4, directions of approaching prey. 2. The same, the door apen, 3, Entrance
mechanisin, U. purpurea. 4° The same door open. 5. U. dichotooma.

1i2 bieyn Volew aie GP tienlaria ve rat

Wionvamhes, A: The entrance mechanism, the door in relaxed posture. B:
Diagram to show the set and relaxed postures of the door, 6. (7, dichotomy.
7. i, eulaeca, iront and lateral side views, & Palypompholyx, Above:
Lateral view of trap with the lateral wing raised to show the ontrance
Below: Sagittal section of the trap. d, doot; t, threshold; ¢, floor of ante-
chamber; 5, ridge along vpper side of stalk; ic, large intercellular space ;
¥, 8, tfansverse patoh of bristles. 9 CU, tybulata,; cf, WI—6-8, «10, U lotevi-
flora, sagittal section (see Pig. 12). 11. G. reniforinis; UL biloba, 12.8.
fatavifiora,+ set and rélaxed postures of the door. 13. UL. cauenlea, 14. 1.
intends, Telt- Entrance with overhanging costnin, Riek: Rostrum cy.
fore, 15, U. langiettiata,

Page 108

1. Fiowers of 1" capritifiern (eft) and af OG. Juastani sp. a. * (right). The
upward standing filaments should be muth longer (see Fags, 11 and 121.
2 WW. capltifow: WaMu, upper lip of corolla; ws, upper sepal. The
lobes of the lower corolla ae ‘often half as long again. 3, LF, Dueastons, sp. 9.
4. Fruit of U. Distant. §. Tran of U. Dreustant and of L/. cogallifiara. 6, f*.
Malltchione. 7. LO Sangrviaw 8. UL Hewltod 9 UL Maorel sp. 1.
10, U, albifiore (trap as in Fig 173, 1, U Duustaai, sp. 12. U, copilii-
era B.y.M, 13, 14 Flower. and 13. Lest, (/. Hamiltoni, apm, 10. V. farte-
‘ rails 17% UL Holtees; U. albiflora.

PLATE &T. -

1, Morel, sp.) 2 UG. tatidede, fram iype matenal, Natuonal Herbariurn,
Melbourne, 3, Trap af U, tubtteta
PLATIE XII.
i) Lenesewt, spoon. Shadaw picture of type material, British Museu
j Natural History.

EXCURSION TO BAYSWATER,

Saturday, August 2¥, was a spring-like day and filty_menibers of the
Club, alsa Pr. Johan Maarirazon, a vishing botanist from Sweden, took pare
us the excursion, Leaving Bayswater railway station the party walled in
4 northerly direction along the railway line ante devoted same time to plants
Growing | the enclosure, many of which were in flower, such as Levropogan
virgalus, Platylolinnr obtucangtun, Deviesia corymbosa, D, latifolia, Hie
hertie actendaris, Hy stricta, Hakew sericea, H. pgionijarmis, Gaodcina
anata, &. geniridatn, Rillordieva scandens, Pultenaea Guanti, Padigofera
avstraks, Dulwynia cruerasceis, Keno ya Prastrala, Shyriduen ‘partifior wis,
Eupheasia collina, and Cuvrea vubide var, vires, a vadiety with greenish
flowers.

Fyerywhere Hong ketecaphylla was met with, displaying its bluish
flowers; Mferdenberuia moanaphylia was equally conspicuous, Herbagemis
wlants were well advanced and miany in fill bloom made a fine display,
Among those noled were Chomeesetiia corymbosu, Carsia vittata, Co éarey-
Fara, Dichopogon strictns, Craspedia uniflora, FHelivhrvsins Scorproides.
Guaphohun japonicum, Mitreseris seapigera, Brachycome deciptens and
fi. cavdiocavpa.

Reaching the Dindenong Creek we were disappointed to find that may
of the Silver Wattles (Acacia fealhata), which farmeciy lined its banks,
had been destroyed, alihongli the few renmiting tree: in full bloom avere
seen at their best. Other Acacias in flower were Ac. viclaneavion, Ac. arate,
ele, verticillata, Ae stricin, Ac. diffusa. Ac. acnlealisyima and Ac. myrhfotta.
‘The search for orchids was rewarded by finding four species, viz.: Ditrts
maculata, Plerastylts polintentuka, 2. longifolia and P. mules. A specimen
of vatans with variegated foliage was found. } W. Aupas

ret Dazy, Mayor dod, Mitchell, Kapleree oud Natwralist Wi

MAJOR VT. L. MITCHELL, EXPLORER AND
NATURALIST

by’ Cras. DALEY, 3A Ls.

‘thomas Livingstone Mitchell, son of John Mitchell, of Carron
Jeonworks, was bon at Craigend, Stirlingshire, ow May 15, 1792.
He was educated at Edinburgh, and at the age of sixteen years
yelunteered for service in the Peninsniar War. in which British
troops were then engaged under the Duke of Wellington in Spain.

Being skilful in drawing and deaftsmanship, young Mitchell
was employed on miliary survey. In the vear 1821 he was made
ensign, and Jater lieutenant, in the 95th Regiment, and served
through the whole campaign, beiny preseiit at the battles of Ciudad
Rudvige, Badajos, Salamanca, San Sebastian, Vittoria, anc the
Pyrenees, for which service he received the Meninsula Medal with
ve clasps. At the close of the war he was selected by the War
Department for the important work of planning and modelling the
wattlefields, and the respective positions of the rival forces in the
war. This engaged his tme and energy for five years, whet Ire
went to Sandhurst Military College, and in [822 was promoted
iv the rank of captain, and four years later to that of major. '

In the year 1826, Mitchell was offered, in recognition of his ser
vies, the position of Assistant Survevor-General in New South
Wales, with reversion of the position. Accepting this, in 1827
he arnved in Sydney and entered with vigour ppon his duties, Tn
i828, on the death af William Oxley, he hecame Surveyor-General.
Llis first work was the co-ordination of previous surveys mia a
comprehensive wap of the whole colony to enable it to be divided
inta ‘counties. To this end he carried out cflectively the first
trigonametrical survey in Australia, and was thus enabled to pro-
dare what was known as the Three Sheet Map of the mincteen
counties of the settlement, an outstanding work testifying: to his
skill and proficiency im his profession, The work of transforming
tracks inte pernianent roads by meuns of convict labour wag syste-
matically performed under his direction and oversight, the asain
road north toa the Hunter River, the great western road to Bathurst,
and the highway to Goulburn proving of great service to the
expanding settlement, in which towns had to he laid not. roads
provided, reserves made, and bridges constructed. In addirion ta
the arduous dutics of survey work, Mitchell, like his prederessor,
did most valuable service in exploration, tm which he candtcted
Vhree important expeditions, the first in 1831-2 to the north-west.
in 1835 ajong the Darling River, and the third in 1836 ta Australia
Felix, On return from the last undertaking Mitchell went, in
1837, to England. where he published fis great work—Three
Expeditions into the Intertor of Eastern Australion Yer his signal
services Queen Victoria knighted him, the University of Oseford

1g Taney, Major 7. L. Mitchel, Explorer and Naturalist LA Ph

eanierred the D.C.L.., the Geological Society 2 Fellowship, and the
onlitary authorities promoted him to be licutenant-colonel.

On his return, with renewed vigour he resumed the onerous
(ities of his office, preatly increase by the needs for internal
comnnunication.

in 1844 he was clected as a representative of Port Phillip District
in the New South Wales Legislative Cotmcil On finding that Sir
George Gipps expected him, although elected as an independent
member, to vote as a Government nominee. he immediately
resigned, -

Jn 18435 he conducted an exploring expeditian tmto Troptcal
Queensland, and published the Journal of his discoveries. In 1851
he was commissioned to furnish a report upon the goldfields of
New South Wales.

In addition ta his official work he was interested in literary,
scientific and artisttc pursuits, his many published works showing
his versatility. In 1853 he re-visited Tngland, and on October 9
died, after a short iiness, at Darling Point, Sydnev. :

The Third Expedition

On March 17, baving mustered his following at the Canohlus
Valley, west of Bathurst, Mitchell, with the hest-equipped expe-
dition ever despatched in Australia, begary his journey, under
instruction from Governor Bourke, lo trace the course of the
Darling, proceed up the leit bank of the Murray for some distance,
and return via the Yass Plains. His company comprised Mr
Stapyltan, surveyor, and 24 men, of whom nine had been with
him previously, and all erther under sentence or surveillance.
Each had special duties allotted to ‘hint, and Mitchell’s firm tut
sympatheti¢ treaiment sectired their loyalty, devotion and efficient
service. Piper, an aborigine, with his fulira, was taken as a guide,
and two other natives were also attached. The experlition had
70 bullocks, 13 draught horses, 100 sheep; also five bullock-drays,
two covered carts, a boat-carriage conveying two bnats, one
within the other. Ti to these be added camp equipment, supplies,
tnels, utensils, firearms, chains and tackle; scientific instruments
and varied impedimenta, the magnitude of the undertaking can
hs perceiverl. ‘The course taken was along the Lachlan River,
which in wet years had so baffled Oxley’s attempts by spreadine
oul into extensive and impassable swamps. ‘This year, a dry one.
it Was a sttecession of waterholes, so travelling was comparatively
éusy. The Lachlan was traced to the Murrumlndgece, and the latter
to the Murray River, a base camp being formed about a mile
helow the junction, fron which Mitchell mace a diversion with
part of his force ta the Darling River in order ta verify Sturt's
recogiition af it ity 1830, Returning to the cainp the Murray was
successfully crossed, and progress made throngh fine pastoral

cai Dawes, Mayor fb. Mitchell, &aptoree and Natipalis! lis

country up the left bank of the river past the present sites uf
Swan Hill and Cohuna. Then changing the route to the south-
west, Mitchell ascendled Mt, Hope and Pyramid Hill, combined
westward anc discovered successively the Loddon, Avoca, Aven,
Richardson, Wimmera, Mackenzie and Norton Rivers. ascended
ihe Grampians at Mts, William and Zero, then at Mh Arapiles.
Turning south parallel to ihe Vietovia Rage. the Glenelg and
Wannon Rivers were discovered. the coast being reached on
August 19 at Discovery Bay.

Qn returing in a northeasterly diyeciiint, a brief visit was
nade to Portland Gay, where the Hentys, the first Victorian
settlers, were mict with. Mt. Abrupt, south of the Grainyians.
was ascended hy Mitchell, Whe Pyrenees crossed anc) named, Mts.
Alexander and Macedon ascended, the rivers Canmpaspe, Coliban,
Goulburn, Broken and Ovens being passed aver, previous to the
Murray being crossed opposite Hawlong. Return to Sydney was
made via the Murrumbidgee and Yass Plains,

Major Mitchell, a man of keen observation and af a robmst
cunstilution, accustomed to field work, m constant contact with
Nature in all aspeets of the Australian bash, gives in his Joornal
a most interesting recurd of the natural featnres of the country
passed through, ]

Capable and ntethodical in all his work, he records at cach camp
the readings of barumcter und thermometer, direction vf the wind,
and character of the weather. [Te wives the width, depth and rate
of fow of the streams met with, and carcfuilly notes the physio-
yvraphy and the nature of the country en-route In directing his
course he waild ascend mountains or elevations perhaps mules
distant to abla Lnangulations and mark the contours and varia-
tions im the land surface, He made a collection uf the rocks, ani
even vf the soils derived therefrom, nuting the geological charac-
ter, the presence of sedimentary rocks as at the Grampians, ol
ignecms tocks as at Macedon, of granitic masses as at Mi. Hope.
of volcanic action as at Mt. Napier, of fossiliferous tertiary lime-
stone along the Glenelg River, etc. He studied the origin of the
uuinerous lakes, west of the Grampians, some fresh, some salt.
with gypsum deposits. Jn his second expedition he had exptored
the caves with osseous Dreccias in the Wellington Valley, and later
at Buree, where remains of extinct marsupials, etc., freely occur,
From the fossils obtained and sublirmnitted to Professor Owen, two
species of a new genus, Yipratoden, several of Afacropus, the giaut
Kangaroo; the Wombat, Pheascolynas Mitchell, a species still
existent, and remains of Lfahuatues, Pialangers, lypseprynrnns
und Duasyurus were recognized and described

Elis observations on the living fauna are valuabic. Ln addition
fo the ordinary marsupials observed, near Swan Fill 2 tailess
wninal, Chaerapits ccaudatus, vesembling the Jerboa, was cap-

Wa Danke, Major 1. L. Mitchell, ExMover aid Natevalist Maat

tured. It was about 10 inches in length, having two toes like a
pg in the front feet’ A marsupial, Dipws Afttchellif, as small as 1
field-munuse, with 4 long brush tail, was obtained. These were
named by the naturalist, Mr. Ogilby, and deposited in the Sydnev
Museum. A tree-climbing rat, butlding a nest in a tree, a flat-
tailei| rat, ancl a rat-eared bat were also obseryed, A sumber of
ous common birds was noted, but the niost prized was a specimen
of a Superb Warbler of Alue plumage with white wings. With his
artistic facility the Major preferred to represent adunivably with
his brush the Mitchell Cockatoo, Cacatua Jentbeatert, having a
scarlet and yellaw topknot. He also made a fine stutly of the head
of the Australian Eagle, Aquila auday. He found that the Murray
Cod, Gristes Poeht, was confined to the northern rivers, Other
fish noted were a Perch with large scales, Cernya Bidyai, and the
Eel-fish, Plotonus tardanus. Bream and Schnapper were caught
in the Glenelg River. A small Jand-shell, Trancateia filosa, was
fount in numbers on the shore of Mitre Lake. The ordinary
Mussel was found to survive in waterless lakes by working down
to moisture undemesth.

Deeply interested in the native rice, with a hostile tribe of
which his men unfortuhately came into conflict near the Murray,
the Major gives much mformation as to their manners and. cus-
toms, unformity of language, their rites, ceremonies and super-
stitious, tribal etiquette, methods of hunting, fishing, netting wild-
fowl, cooking, tood restrictions, constructing shelters, and modes
of burials. The making and use of their various weapons, their
artistic baskets, kangaroo-skin clowks, ete, are described; alsa
their sleeping customs, fireplaces, ash-fulls, the treatment of the
“balyan" or bulrush for the food content, use-of edrble plents,
und of “bool,” a dritk made from steeping the flowers of the iron-
bark in water. He praises the intelligence of the natives, their
keenness in vision, hearing and observation.

Of his guide, Piper, he writes: “July 3d. This was a very
husy day for the party—black and white, I canmot fairly say
savage and civilized for, in most of our difficulties by Aood and
field, the intelligence and skill of our sable frrendls made the
‘white fellows’ appear rather stupid, They could read traces on
the earth, climb trees, or dive into the water hetter than the ahlest
of us, In tracmy lost cattle, speaking to the wild natives, hunting,
or diving, Piper was the most accomplished man in the camp, In
person he was the tallest, and in authority he was allowed to con-
sider himself almost siext ta me, the hetter tm secttre his best
exertions, The men he despised, and he would only act by amy
orders.”

Mitchell had two other expable native helpers, Tommy Came-
first ancl Tommy Came-tast; whilst Turandury, a widaw fram the
Lachkiny tobe, with a child, Ballandclla, four years of age, was

ker Davey, Majer Doh. Mitchell, firplarer wal Naturalis! li?

url expert guide and interpreter, The child was ultimately taken
by the Major into his own household to be trained auc educated
Of the natiwe mee, he wrices: “My experience coables ume to
speak in the most favaurable terms of the aborigines, whose
degraded position in the midst of the white population affords no
just criterion of their merits. The quickness of apprehension of
these in the interior was very remarkable, for nothing in all the
complicated adaptations we carried with us either surprised or
puzzled them, They are never awkward; on the contrary, in man-
ners and general intelligence they appear superior to any class of
white rustics that I have seen.”

The Major’s blacks were returned to dheir tribes with gifts,
Piper, proud of the attention he received at Sydney, arrayed mi
the Major's red coat, and with a cocked hat and feather once
Governor Darling’s, and also decorated witha brass plate, inscribed
“Conqueror of the Interior,” was conducted hack to his tribe at
Bathurst.

Tr the nomenclature of places, Mitchell preferred the musical
native names, ¢.c., Millewa, Yarrayoe, Nangeela, Wanhon, Wando,
Bayunga, Geboor.

Major Mitchell was a keen holanist. In coming down the dry
Lachlan River he discovered three new species of Psoralea, Scurf
Fea, and three of ihe pretty genus Triclanium:; also a new species
of Sambucus or Elderberry and a new Judigofera with white
flowers. Me notes the presence of the Calitris or Murray Pine,
un Pittospormm, variuus Acacias, and dear the Murray, in abun-
dance, the Quandong, Muesanus acuminates, on which he discovered
the Mistletoe, Loranthus quandong, with bright red flowers. Ile
found that the natives ate the fruits of Salas esuriale af the
Nightshade family, aud of the Mosembyyoulhoneum, also the
roasted stalksof a Pieris and the foliage of the fragrant Trigomelle
suavissina, “Calomba,” a new plant wath clover-like leaves, which
was also. relished as a vegetable by members of the expedition,
Excalyptus rostrata, river red-gim, “Yarra” of the nagves, alonp
the streams, with Dwarf Box “Goborre” on diter areas were the
chief Encalypts. &. leagifoha and E. lonceelata are mentioned.
with E, damasa in the Mallee neat the Murray. Species of Calas-
tem, Baechia, Correaand Cassia, with other new plants, were
found. Many species of grasses, Danthonia, Anthistria, Stipa, Pow,
ete., in rich profusion are noted south of the Murray. Near Mt
Hope a pretty white duqaliaria (4. dioica) was seen, for which
the Major suggests the name *‘Australian Snowdrop.” Tete also
was a striking plant Phebelinm (Eriostemon) purgens, and a
plant like a Crstus (Plewranda incune). A reminder of the Old
Land was Pelorgoutwm Rodneyanuwn, which he named in honour
of Adinival Roelney’s granddaughter, Mrs, Rirldell, of Svdnev.

LI Danny, Afayor PL. Milehell. iagloror and Nolnvatis yes fos.

Nagchra micrantha, Davtcsia pectinata, Pigea floribunda and G yros-
fom) fungens were new species, also an attractive plant with
utange-colotred flowers, Ropera aw‘anticae

At Mitchell's hurried visit to Mt. Wiliam, un the exposed sume
nit of which with three men he spent a “miserable night" amid
Hitter sleet andl snow, he collected quite a munber of new planrs.
among which were Eucalyptus alpina and Acarin Mitchells, both
peculiar to the Grampians, Attractive plants were Kpaceis tinpressa,
the Cominon Heath, Correa rubra, Red Correa (the Club's badge),
Lhatskya alpestyis, Snow Myrtle, Grevillca aquifolium, Prickly
Grevillea, G. alpina, Lencopogon glaciatis, the Twisted, L. rufics
the Ruddy, and L. cordifohins, the Heart-leal Beard-heaths. Also
the heaunful. Thryplomene ciliata (Mitcheliana), Cryptandya
tomestosa, Prickly Cryptandra; Phebalium biloba, with bright
red flowers and holly-like leaves; and Conpspermuim Mitchell.
Later were obtained Pultesoca moaliis, he Soft Bush Pea; Correa
aemula, the Hairy Correa: Telatheca ciliata, “with large purple
flowers. the most beautiful plant met with’; Deevtesta brevifolia,
Teafless Biter Pea: Diluryana fispida, Rough Parrot Pea:
Howmesia peetnitta, Thorny Bitter Pea: Baechia crasstfalia, Desert
Baeckia, etc. Among the many Acacias, 4. sclerophytie, A. forinesa.
4, aspera and A. acinacen were new species, OF Orchids, white,
hlue, pink and red Coladeimas, Diurty palestiis, Swamp Diuris,
Spiranthes australis, Lady's Tresses, Buynettia curncata, Lizard
Orchid, the charming Thelymiiva aristeta, Plerostylis Mitchetin,
the Purple Prasoplintlit, also the siiall Meerons afrali, ote, were
vallected. .

Some plant speciniens were destroyed through damp, but the
Major conveyed to England 77 species, 134 kinds af seeds, and
62 bulbs. The plants were described and named hy Dr. Lindley,
Professor of Botany, London, the seeds distributed in. gardens,
the hubs planted at Chiswick Horticultural Gardens. Some of
the names given by Lindley were afterwards changed in the Flora
Austratiensiy of Bentham and Mueller, Six Correas given specihe
rank were reduced ta three under revision, In the census of Vic-
torian plants nearly every species under Lindley's nanie was col-
lected by the Major.*

Mitchell also callected samples of timber, some of which, as we
see in the Mulya and? other Acacias to-day, were fragraiit and
attractive when polished.

This was the first botanical eoliection fram the interior of Vic-
loria, then previously collected in 1802-3 heing from the southern
coastal fringe,

Mitehell, in his Joutnaf, exhitats his sound: judgement and fore-
sight. He fully recognized the suitability of the new province for
pastoral and agricultural pursuits, and setilement, He shrewdly
estimated the value of the northern rivers system as a ready means

*Soe list, p. 272,

Ort.
1836

Barex, Major T./. Mitchell, Euplorer and Naturalis 119
ior future conservation of water and irrigation of the drier areas,
and of the Murray River fer navisalon and as an efficient fertihz-
ing agency.

He appreciated the many advantages possessed by the province
in tts water facilities, its varied suriace, quality of Soils, as cu)
pared with the area north of the Murray River.

Tis regard to a question of very serious moment at the present
day, in passing through the Mallee scrub near the Murray River,
he stressed the great value of the Spinifer and Enculyptes uhemtose
with its extensive root-system, in serving as effective sandstays in
arid areas, where, unless protected by vegetation of this nature,
erosion of the surface soil was mevitable, Te also notes that
Eucalyptes dumaesa is almost indestructible by bush fires.

With true visiun he saw the fitness of the land traversed for
habitation by energetic and sturdy colonists, and happily named
it in these words: “In returning over flowery plains and green
hills fanned by the breezes of early spring, | named the region
“Australia Felix!"

The report of the expedition accclerated the incoming of graziers
from the north, Overlanders having already reached the vicinity
of Albury. It also attracted settlers from Van Diemen's Land.
Later on the publication of Mitchell's book in Great Bretam also
stimulated emigration to Australia, so that within a decade all
available pastoral country in Australia Felix was taken up.

The name “Australia Felix" replaced that of Port Phillip, andl
was communly in yagtre until separation in 185], when the official
‘name, Victoria, gradually superseded it, without invalidating its
peculiar appropriateness, in regard to the colony's rich, natural
endowment, and unequalled advantages for settlement.

In the year 1932 in Victoria there were three memorials on “the
Major's line”; ta-day, as ¢ result of the consistent efforts of The
Historical Memorials Committee’ there are 32 memorials. with
ahout cight more under consideration or in course of erection.

AUSTRALIAN SPECIES OF COPROSMA

Dr. W_ R. B. Oliver, Director of Dominion Museum, Welling:
ton, New Zealand, has recently issued an excellent a;anograph
entitled “TheGenus Coprosme.” “She work was published for him
by the Bernice P, Bishop Museum, Honolulu, Hawaii,

Coprosma is one of the largest genera in ihe family Rubiaceae,
wostly distributed in temperate areas or movstains of the tropics
froni Bornes to’ Tasmania and New Zealand. The genus is of
considerable interest to evulutionists and plant peographers,
although the flowers are of fairly uniform structure, m has ninety
species and nineteen hybrid species. The only apparent method of
increase and distribution is by bird carriage, the seeds of the drupe

at) Austratiot Species of Coprasinn ven oon

(iruit)- being capable of passing with unimpaired vitality through
the alimentary tracts.

Species of Coprosia -are used for horticultural » purposes.
Coprosma repens, “‘Taupata’, of New Zealand, is cultivated
throughout Australia as a hedge plant, where it is known as New
Zealand Looking-glass Bush or “Squeakers.” Children blow
through the folded leaf to make a squeaking noise. It is sold by
nurserymen.as Coprosma Bouert, Some species were used by the
Maoris for dyeing New Zealand flax.

There are seven species of Coprosma trom Australta and Tas-
mania; six are endemic, whilst C. purnila’s is also widely apsttzbuted
in New Zealand.

The following are the Australian species, with the disitintion,
and 4 key for their determination ;

licaves 1 nerved.
Stipules minute points on connected leaf, .
bases. 2 ww ee ee es 60. Moret Rod,
Tas.
Stipules triangular
Branchlets glabrous,
Leayes broadly ovate, style branches
2-402, 2 ee we ee) 6G ptrnpila Hook
T., V., N.S.W., NZ.
Leaves. basrowhy ovate, style

‘branches 2 . i = -. €. nivalis W, OL
Victorian Alps
Branehlets pubescent 6. \ ©. Tadgelli W. O1.
Victorian Alps
Stipules tubulat .. 2. 24. 0-020... GL abtida
Leaves reticulate.
Stipules entire, flowers solitary .. . «. C. quadrifidum Rob.
~ TT, V. NSW,
Stipules denticulate, flowers clustered _. C. hirtella Lab,

T., V.. N.S.W.

Tt will be observed that Dr. Oliver has added two new species
to the list of Victorian plants, namely, C. sivalis and C. Tadgelli,
The latter species is named in honour of our club member, Mr.
AL J. Tadgell, who has done yery valuable work in- botanical
explorations and writings 94 the Alpine regions of Victoria. Mr;
Tadgell was also successful in collecting C. nivalts.

Coprosma Tadgell: W, R.. Oliver, “Tiny Currant-bush,” has
linear elliptic leaves, acute, Bradually narrowed to a short petiole,
1 nerved, corfaceous, 8 X 2 mm. Stipules obtuse, margin ciliate.
Branchlets tetragonous, pubescent. The leaves of Fadgelli
resemble those of C. imvaiis, but the pubescent branchlets distit-
guish it from that species. —P. F, Morris.

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LIII.—No. 7 ‘November 5, 1936 No. 635

THE FIELD NATURALISTS® CLUB OF VICTORIA

The ordinary monthly meeting of the Club was held at the
Royal Saciety’s Hall an Monday, October 12, 1936. ‘The Presi-
dent, Mr. &. R. Mitchell, presided and about 100 members and
friends attended. -

DEATH OF MEMBER
The President announced with regret the recent death of a
valued member, Mr. H. P. MeColl, and members and friends
present staod in silence as a mark of respect.

LECTURE POR EVENING ;

The subject for the evening was an illustrated lantern lecture
entitled “In Australian Tropies* and was given by Mrs, P. Hanks.
A fine series of coloured slides showing many phases of natural
history, together with a good commentary on them, enabled those
present {o enjoy a very interesting and instructive evening.

At the close of the Jecture, the President accorded Mrs. Hanks
the thanks of the Club, and members responded by acclamation.

VISITOR

The President announced to the members that Dr, Johan
Mauritzon, a horamst from Sweden, who was here on a collecting
trip, was present at the meeting.

He welcomed the visitor to the Club, and presented to hima
copy of Micterian Orchids as a token of remembrance of a very
pleasant excursion to Ringwood.

Dr. Mauntzon responded, thanking members for kindnesses
extended ta him.

REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS

Reports of excursions were given as follow: Arthur’s Seat
Club Picnic, Mr. S. R. Mitchell; Beaconsfield, Mr, G. N. Hyarn;
Ringwood, Mr, C. French and Mr..A. §, Chath.

CORRESPONDENCE

A Jetter from Mr. Chas. Daley, 2.4., 71.s., thanking the Club for
congratulations on the accasion of his golden wedding.

[22 KMield Nahueltsis Clb Praccedings a me

ELECTION OF MEMBERS
On a show of hands the following were duly elected as ordinary
mémbers of the Club; Mrs, M, M. Martin, Mrs. A. . White,
Miss A. G, Randell, Miss Ready; and as Country Member,
Mr. L. H. Finnis.

GENERAL BUSINESS,
Forthcoming exctirsions were announced by the leaders, and it
was stated that for the Dredging Excursion on Decenther 12,
1936, names must be handed in not later than next meeting.

QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS

Two members. submitted questions through the medium of the
box, both in reference to birds. Mr A. TH, Chishohn, ¢.P.4.0.u.,
answered them.

The questions were:

Question —A foraging Blackbird was observer in a Toorak
garden putting its head on one side tawards the ground, ard then
quickly thrusting in its beak to pull out a grub or worm, Was
the bird listening or looking (oy both) for the insect?

Answer —The bird probably was listening.

Oxvestion—Recently an Enw-Wren was flushed from its nest of
three young, The bird was thought to be a male, with blue throat.
Is it usual tor a male Kimu-Wren to nestle or feed young, or was
the male in its rapid flight mistaken for a female? The young
birds in the nest were almost fully fledyed,

Answer—ldentihcation probably correct. The male Emu-Wren
certainly helps in feeding young, Mr. Chisholm said, athough he
had not seen it brooding,

NATURE NOTES

re Coghtil reported that he saw a Jackass with a blue ring on
1tS leg,

Mr F. S. Colliver mentioned having seen a Jackass flying off
with a giant worm at Gippsland, and being brought to the ground
by the worm wrapping itself around the bird's wings to such an
extent that lwtan intervention was necessary to release the bird.
Mr. A, H, Chisholm stated that this was not a rare happening.

Mr..C, French spoke about orchids being destroyed at Frankston,
Tt was deeded thar this matter he referred to the camunittee for
consideratiot.

EXHIBITS

Mrs. P. Hanks.—Specimens to illustrate the lecture, including:
Pearl shells, Darwin: Staurolites, Cloncurry; Corals, Fitzroy
Island; hasket made from Pandanus, Palin Island) fruit of Flame

Nov ]
1

Preld Nitaratists’ Chik Proceedings 44
tree (Srachyclitos acerifolius), Fluorspar; flower of Kapok tree
(Bombax malabarive), Northern Territory; fruit of Date Palin
(Diospyros maritina), Adelaide River: fruit of Pandas oderr-
fissunus, Darwin; leaves and fruit of Bruguiera gynnerriica from
Adelaide River; leaves, fruit and bark of the Broadleaf Tea Tree
(Melalenca leucodendron), Adelaide River; bark of Alstonia con-
strycla, fruit of Aakea persicharia, Fluorspac; leaves and fruit of
Acacia timsit, Tluorspar; Unio sp, (7), Adelaide River; land
moallusca from bower of the Great Bower Bird, near Brock’s Creek.
Mrs. Knox.—Wood opal from Gippsiand,

Mr. D. J. Paton,—Orehids from Boronia, including Caladenea
Patersom, C. reticulata, C. Mensesin, Prasophyllam elatam.

Mr. S. R. Mitchell—A senies of Pseudomorphs (i.c., false
forins}) including: Opal replacmg marine sheils from Stewart
Range, South Australia; Opel replacing Glauherite from White
Cliffs, New South Wales, Limonite replacing Pyrite; Quartz
replacing Felspar, Mt. Bischof, Tasmania; Barite replacing a
coral from Woor Yallock, Victoria: Opal replacing wood from
White Cliffs, New South Wales; Tasmania; Idaho, U-S.A.;
Arizona, U.S.A,

Mr. F. S. Colhiver—Four specimens of fossil botany that ance
were clescribed as different genera, ancl then many years after were
found to be possibly different portious of the same plant. The
specimens shown were Celatians grickann Brou.; Asteraplyllites
cyutectiforimis ; <Annuloria, inflate Lesq.; Sphenaphylium omargis
natin Bron. (The Calamatis is the main stem and the other three
are heteramorphic branches. }

EXCURSION TO RINGWOOD

This excursion took place ow Saturday, October 10, and was attended by
sixty members and friends, probably a record attendance lyr a FN, Club
afternoan excursion.

‘Phe weather was dall and a tew Sight showers fell, which, however, did
jw damp the enthusiasm of the members present, From Ringwood we
proceeded to a good collecting ground about a quarter of a mile on the north
side of Pine Mount or Lalmaan's Hith Quite a muaber of orchids in
flower were noticed, viz. Brown Beaks (Lyperanhis suateolens), dark
brow) and yvellowish-green yarieties, Rearcded Greenhood (Plerastyilrs
harbotn), Broad-lip Duitis (Driris palachila), Atpine Greenhood (Ptero-
stylis alpina) (rather rare om this Jovality), Wax Lip, Caladena, Sun
Orchids, and other common species, Sixteen species of orchids were am
flower and about three other species which had just fished Howeéring were
observed.

One of the- party disvovered a double white Hnwering Wartve Heath
(Epacvis) = dus Jom is rare

After a walk af about four miles Mitubam Station was reached about
5.LS p.m. «
C Tare.

124 CoLemAN, Prrthor Notes on tte Behidna Mas ine

CLIMBING HABITS AND FURTHER NOTES ON
HIBERNATION OF THE ECHIDNA

By Entri Coleman

Several male Ecliidnas sent ta me after “Prickles had lost her
companion, exhihited extraordinary climbing habits

The first, # hali-grown imale Tchidna from Yea, received on
Noventber 17, 1935, fasteil for five days. He then emerged fran
his box and ate a hearty meal, after which all his energies were
ilevoted ro finding ineans of escape, From 8 a.m, until 3 pm
(except at meal times) he climbed the wire walls, prised up the
flooring-bricks (even four or five bricks cemented together!) and
burrowed in the hard, clay floor of his enclosure, He climbed
Tight to the iron roof, usually from the corners, where walls are at
right anples. By pressing two feet ow cach wall he obtained a firm
hold while inserting his shout inta a higher mesh, Three times
he escaped before T could return him to the country.

In twenty days this individual strengthened my view that the
Echidna is neither crepuscular dor nocturnal. Not ance did he
emerge alter dusk, as one might have expected him to do, to con-
tinue his quest for freedom, Taken toa Sherbrooke Forest, a new
locality, he made off withaut hesitation as soon as released,

On Decetnber 15 two hall-grown male Eechiduas were brought
from the Zoological Gardens. I was to release the less suitable one,
As I anticipated, from the nember of broken spines they bore,
hoth were adeprs at climbing. One of them was also an expert
barrower. When not eating they, too, spent the hours ina tireless
quest for liberty, but always reticed at dusk, not ta emerge througli-
out the wight. Ar whatever hour 1 flashed a torch into their
boxes I found them asleep, 1 tested this many times, during both
“crepuscular” and “nocturnal? hour's, They climbed beautiiully,
and descerided with jack-tar nimbleness. Several tines, failing to
obtain a footing on the iron reot they fell to the floor. On two
occasions ane appeared to be liurt and lay mntionless far some
time, It was obvious that, without crucity, T could not confine
an adult Echidna, Had “Prickles” not needed a companion I
should aut have tried to do so.

t had placed the newcomers in the outdoor rin, but, as this was
not wetted overhead they were out ay sno as my back was turned.
Que of them was then released, hut as the other (we named hin
Sandy fram the catour of his coat) had npr recovered from his Jalt,
I decided to keep him until he was stronger. The outdoor run
was then wired above Neither ‘Stickles nor “Prickles” had
attempted to climb out of this enclosure, nor did they attempt to
climb out of their sun-hathing playgeound, though T ahmk they
could have done so at the corners. During " Stickles’ first few
months she certainly escaped on four occasions from her small

ries Coteman, further Notes on the lichtibue 125

sun-bathing tank. This she did by standing on a brick which
enabled her snout to enter a small hole near the top of the tank,
But this could hardly be called “climbing” when compared with
the activities of the male Echidnas.

On March 4, 1936, a healthy, rather more than hall-grewn,
Echidna came. on trial He led mie a pretty dance. Several
broken spmes should have warned me. Indeed 7 removed him
from a wire wall at the home of the friend who offered him to me,
but as T managed this quite easily, T allowed myself to hope he
would settle down. Ile merely added to my notes on the climbing
activities of Iichidnas. (It was quite clear that he, like the others,
was never out after dark.) The Echidna when climbing uses its
snout very cleverly as a fifth foot. Placed in the outdoor run, thie
newcomer climbed toa the top of a paling fenee (6 feet 6 inch
palings on a ten-inch plinth) with the same facility as he had
climbed the wire netting, He did so by ascending at the corners,
where two paling walls were at right angles, As there was no wite
netting he could obtain but little help from his snout, so that the
climbing was done by spreading and pressing his feet on two
opposed walls, It suggested intelliyence, | thought,

Though he enjoyed tis meals atid even allowed me to lande
him, this Echidna, too, refused to accept an eniorced habitation,
A few davs later he was set free on a watershed reserve in Heales-
ville. As soon as released he flattened himself lke a Itzard, atl slid
off reptile-like, among prass tussocks,

Tn the meantime “Sandy” had been placed in the outdoor ran with
“Prickles.” He was eating well, but had not yet attenipted to climb
since his fall. Cod-liver oil, fresh cream, and a newly-laid egg
daily, were slowly working a change in him—of body, if uot of
heart. “Prickles olwietsly Iked his company, She would Tick
his head, and tose his cars, though “Sandy” was never responsive.

As TL wished to confirm last season's notes on hibernation 1 gave
the Echidnas more natural conditions. [ ceased to handle them,
and did not carry them to their old sleeping quarters, but Jeft
them to sleep in a huge heap of humus. They loved this watin
mound, and made delightful burrows in it. Even with my arm
extended ta the shoulder in these tunnels I was unable ta reach
them.

Hibernation, 1936
"Prickles"

On March 3 “Prickles” did not emerge from the mound of
humus, She missed again on April 10. She hibernated for 34 days
from Apri) 18. On emerging she drank much water and then
slowly ate a little foud, She seemed very drowsy, birt next day
was quite vigorous, She missed another day on May 5, and was
only out for half an hour on May 13. She missed another day on
May !4 and was only out for an hour next afternoon, She diber-

Vic. Nat.
Vol. LIM.

126 Coreman, Further Notes on the fichidua
nated again from June 6 until September 8 (94 days) and again
for a final period of 19 days on September 9,

I watched her emerge after her 13-week period. With her fore-
feet she scratched away the grass at the entrance of her burrow,
and at once set off towards the water-vessels—twenty-five feet
distant. Coming toa fresh mound of grass, placed there while she

“Stickles” “climbing” inte hed.

was hibernating, she turned at anee, and ambled along a remem-
bered track that led to the water. She drank continuously for six
minutes, as ] counted the seconds, then returned, climbing easily
over the new mound, to where “Sandy” lay sunning himself. She
nosed him for a moment or two, but, finding him ¢isinterested,
used her inquiring nose to better purpose on the moist soil in which
larvae seemed to be numerous. When her food appeared she did
full justice to it.

“Sandy”

“Sandy” hibernated for five days from April 17. He emerged at
9 a.m. and was very shaky. He ate very little food and appeared

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL. LUI Navember, 1936
Plate XIII

Quite at home on twu feet

nt Coveman, Further Notes on the lelidiea 127

drowsy, He returned to the mound at 3 p.ni., burrowing inte
another part of 1. On this day he was dusted liberally with pulvex,
for certain brown vermin which | had never seen on “Stickles” or
“Prickles.” He was ton drowsy to protest nmch. He hibernated
again for 44 days from May 5, emerging at 3 p.m. ou May 9 Ay
first he was very shaky and ate his food while lying down, cyes
hall closed, snout resting on the saucer. JIe remained out,
apprirently too weak, or too tired to burrow, anitil5 pan,, lying on a
emall heap of hitaeus, As a cold night was threatened I covered
him, where he lay, with grass, and left him. Next morning I found
that he had gone to the big mound. From a deep depression in the
small heap it was evident that he had left 11, and returned to it,
before finally retiring to the big mound. We was out next day
basking i warm sunshine, rather furtive, but was eating well,

Sandy” hibernated for a further period of 10 days Srom May 13,
He seemed refreshed, 1 thought, when he appeared, though he
moved slowly. He was a little chinner but 1 did not weigh him, .
as { wished to interfere as little as possible with a natural course of
events, THe Iibernated again from June 1 for a period of 51 days,
emerging al neat an July 21. Le ate no food, and soon returned
to the mound. From July 23 he hibernated for a fifth period, this
time of 45 days, THis fital hiberation lasted for 18 days, September
9-27. Heis now eating well and seems to be stronger, So far he
has nat resumed his old chmbing habits, but 1 am not very opti-
nustic on this point. He will be released on the earlest signs of
discontent. q

At will be noted that “Sandy,” a half-grown male Echidna, has
hikernateck for six periods, 1334 days in all, ‘Prickles, a half-
grown female, has lnbernated for three pertods this, season. the
total number of days bemg 117, as against only 5 days last vear-
She appears to he about the same age as was “Stickles” who died.
suddenly on October 11, 1935. (An examination of the juternal’
organs showed that she was. not yet mature.) It is, I think, quite
probable that the short period of hiberation was responsible for her
death, and that food should have been withheld during these periods
when, under natural conditions, if would not have heen available te
the Echidnas. It may he assumed that they would sometinies come
out to bask, merely, anc would retire, foodless, to Heir burrows,

Summing up, the hibernation periods for 1936 are as. follows -

“Prickles” :
April 8-21.00, 6, ... 4 days
June 6 to September & fs 4
September 9-28 2.2.2 - ~=- | | WY

Tomales te te vee DTZ days

Vie Nut.

dab The 1936 Annual Exhibition Vol, {.3l!
“Sandy"'
' April a7-22.. 0.2.0.0 2... .... 3 days
May 5-9 ._ _. . ; 4h,
May 13-23 .. .. ,. , 10.
June 1 ta Jaly 2t. mon By
July 23 to September Bk an 4
September 9-27 . Sp aan see ER
‘Total . ie ae 1334 days

Note—A change of gender will be fioted with regard to
"Stickles" and “Prickles.” As the masculine pronoun had heen
used for several nionths \efore their sex was apparent, it was as
(lifficult to change as a familiar namie. In the family “Prickles” is
still referred to as “he.”

THE 1936 ANNUAL EXHIBITION

The 51st Annual Exhibition was held at the St. Kilda Town
Hall on October 6 ands 7, On this occasion, the shaw was opened
by the President, Mr, S. R. Mitchell,

The exhibits were more extensive than usual, extra space heing
available by the utilization of the adjoining supper-room, ‘This
allowed for a greatly-improved method of staging by the Plant
Classification section and for the adoption of sepurate tables for
Victorian district exhibits. Districts represented ineluded Taradale
(Central) North East, Warrandyte, Mallee and Grampians, Miss
Jean Galbraith and her helpers provided plenty of informative
tickets and students expressed their appreciation of the extended
layout, which gave them more Opportunity tor close stucly.

Jn the main hall the most conspicuous exhibits, were the Inter-
state Flower Section kindly collected and transported by the Shell
Company of Australia, tastefully staged by Mrs, C, Barrett and
helpers. Included in ths were two fine individual garden-grows
exhibits, one irom Mr. Burdett, of Basket Range, South Australia,
which occupied the front of the stage, and another front Mr.
Ashby, of Blackwod, South Australia, which formed a pyramid
jacing the entrance. Tables of howers Jrom Tasmania, New South
Wales and South Australia were also a bright feature, Flanking
the interstate exhibits were tables of cultivated native flowers from
the gardens of Messrs. 5. A. Robertson, of Sule, Geo. Coghill,
J. W. Audas, and Harold Jenkins. An interesting exhibit of Vie-
tarian flowers coflected by the Burnley Horticultural School
students; (he Orchid section (Miss Colentan) } a specia) Grampians
exhibit collected by Messrs. Chas, French and J. Firth, including
a rare double torm of Epacris wtpbressa; and a table of Centralia
flowers from Mr. Morris, of Broken Hill, completed one of the
most decorative displays of Australians flowers ever staged.

Per The 1930 Avntiel Batibition 129

A fine collection of coloured photographs of Australian flowers
was shawn hy Mr. H. Reeves in the supper room. The stuge was
occupied by thirty-five cages of Budgerigars staged hy the Budgeri-
gar Sociely, each containing’ birds ot a different colour, slustrating
what seientific breeding has been wble to pruduce from our native
green ad yellow bird. Colours ranged from pure yellow to blues
and mauves. Other special exhrhits included radiographs of Aus-
tralian fayna (Mr. Fergus) illustrating a new branch of nature
study and one which will probably reduce the necessity for dissec-
tion. Miss Ellen Clarke sent a collection of Victorian eraviish
illystrative of her recent article in the Natiralist. Mr. Sykes
shawed aid explained a comprehensive collection of spiders under
the ttle of the "Spider Zoo." Mr. V. H. Davey exhilited an obser-
vation hee-hive which clearly showed the various types of enn and
brood. The Forests Commisston had an extensive exhibit on this
occasion illustrating the various destructive pests of timher—insect
and fungal. The fungal exhibits were attractively mounted on logs,
Phatograpiis of the giant eucalypts known to exceed 300 feer, and
a comprehensive senes af photos, showing erasion due to removal
of forest cover, also created interest, A collection of hirds’ nests
was shown by the National Museum. The sectional exhibits were:
as follow: -

Anthropology (Dr, Wishart and Mr, 1, Sinith).—Australasian,
Polynesian and Melanesian artefacts, weapons, ete. Outstanding
exhibits in this section were a fishing kite from the New Hebrides
and some fine axes from New Guinea, A table of aboriginal worl
from various missions was staged by the Victorian. Aboriginal
Group and provided a contrast to those from the unsophisticated
tribes.

Entomology was represented by cases from the collections oi
Mr. J. A. Kershaw and Mr. A. N. Burns. ;

Conchology (Mr. C, J. Gabriel) was of special interest this year
on accounc of the simultaneous publication of the. handhouk fic.
forian Sea, Shells, written by Mr. Gabriel. His exhibit showed a
comprehensive collection of the species figured in that book,
together with many other shells of economic and scientific interest.

Geology (Messrs. Colliver and [rostick)—This section is
always particularly well ticketed, which greatly adds to its interest,
The butlding stones of Melhourne; a senes to illastrare the time
scale of fossils; quartz crystals and a many-hned collection of
mineral ores (Mr, S, R. Mitchetl) were ainongst the features of
this. exhibit,

Mammals—Live exhibits lent by Mr, David Pleay included
juvetile specimens of the Gréy Kangaréa and Wombat, Echidna,
native cats, opassums and other marsupiale were under the care
of Miss Wigan and Miss J. Harper, ;

» 904 Hatt Vie, Wat.
130 The 0930 etoanal Katies Weta

Marine Biology (Mr, and Mrs. Fracme) was represented by
many specimens. A picarl from a fresh-water mussel, corals, Leafy
Sea Dragon, the Stone Fish, Tree Climbing Fish of Queensland,
and a Boot-lace Worm many yards long, were some of the nore
interesting exhibits. A series of shark, cel, goauna and snake
skins were also sliowii to illustrate ther possible econonue use.

Microscopes were displayed in rhe side roan undey the leader-
ship of Mr. Blackbourn during the evening sessions and he was
assisted hy a willing demonstrator at each microscope or projector.
This section always interests the general public, whe seldom have
a chance of observing hatural objects invisthle 10 the waked eye.

Reptiles (Mr. Geo. Maleoln) —In this section were svveral
live snakes, includmg a 10-foor Diamond Python, a greci tree
frog and also some aquaria containing specimens of yerl-tailed
goldfish.

The Plant Stall (Messrs. Hammett. Robley and Salau) and
the Cut Flowers Stall (Misses Bolton and Hart} again contributed
handsomely to the Anances of the Show.

The Bookstall and Enquiry Desk was well patronized, and
efficiently conducted by Mrs. V. H. Miller and Mr, Chas. Daley.
The new Shell Book sold well curing the exhibition.

General organization was in the hands of Messrs, S, R.. Mitchell,
L, W, Cooper, WH. Ingram and G. N. Hyam, The attendance
was approxiniately the sane as for two days of last year’s show and
is therefore well below that of the years prior to the depression. A
rather disqmieting feature is the fact that purchases oi tickels by
meithers is less than half what it was last year, A gratifying feature
Was an increased attendance of children and a novelty was intro-
duced by the provision of a questionnaire relating to exhibits to
ensure their interest, About 250 weve returned and small prizes
were awarded to the twelve children whe returned the most con
plete and best answers. Mr Swahy kindly prepared the questions
and marked the answers. As the staging of the Show entails a
great deal of work by the organizers and 15 of great importance to
the Club, if is hoped that thig lack of interest by some members will
not continue, ,

In addition to the names above mentioned the Chib has to thank
many who helped in some degree to stage one of the best exhibi-
tidns we have had, At least 150 people contributed either hy help
or exhibits and many of them are not metnbers,
—G.N.H,

; ; ER
Val, LIN, page 114, Tine 178185" alter October 9 pape IIR line 24—
rimeata, instead of cuneate.

|

ja3¢ Corniven, Fossit Localities in and about Melbarrnc 431

FOSSIL LOCALITIRS IN AND ABOUT MELBOUKNE
By F. 5, Cotrrver

Part I—Rovrac. Park Corrine;

Por the first of this series I have chosen the railway culling al
Royal Park. Originally meant for railway traffie st has beconie
well known as a locality where many first attempts at fossil collect-
ing have been mide,

“Many years ago the Railway authovities, acceding to a request
by hose mierested, among whou) were mentbers of this Club,
agreed to keup the section reasonably oper to collectors, and alsa
not to plant the so-called Pig Face,

A note of interest and a moral can be here stated. Possibly the
first thing ile visitor Lo the ealting will notice will be its far greater
width than 15 apparently necessary for raulway purposes, The
reason for this is that the Railway authonties recqunred a large
amount of Alling for the Spencer Street yards and. obtained rmosr
of it fram this locality. The moral is not to accept all deposits as
being i sit. without rst applying tests; m this case the tertiary
rocks live heen dumped om to recent depnsits, and they may prove
{in the fisture) a pnazle to some carcless. geologist.

De. G. B. Pritchard, a Club member at the time, was appar ently
the first to separate ihese beds, and he called the lower beds
“Eocene Age” and the upper beds “Miocene Age” or the Bal-
comman and Kalimnam series respectively. A clistinct fauna os
preserved in each hed, and the species agree generally with the
assemblages to be found in the Lower and Upper heds of Muddy
Creek, near Hamilton, which are listed under the same series
nanies hy Pritchard. The better preserved specimens are to be
found in the red hands overlying the white sands and clays, Here
the fossils occur as casts and impressions i an iron oxide mineral
known as Hematite, and they are of the older age, ic. the Bal-
combian series. The younger age (or Kalimnan series) fossils
oecur in fine jrun sandstones at the top of the culting, bet in
number or variety they cannot equal the lower beds.

A good geological hammer, a flat chise? or two, nssue paper, small
boxes and paper for general wrapping ave very necessary. The
specimens as collected should be marked to indicate from whieh
bed they were taken. Haphazard collecting stoyld vot be even
thought of, as two different ages are represented ly fossil beds
here, and the besinner is apt to mix the fauna,

To tuolleer the [ossils, use the lamer aud chisel ta lireak out
pitcea of the red rock, and carefully look at the fresh surtaces.
Casts or impressions of shells are sute to be seen; moet likely they
are small, but the next piece may yield a Jarge specimen. If neces-
sary, carefully reduce the size of the spec ‘imen, always remember-
ing that to reduce too much very offen means a valuable specimen

. , a a Vie. Mat.
132 Cotuverx, Hosstl Localities mm and about Melbourne VoLLw.

badly hroken or even entircly lost, Wrap the specimens separately,
but keep Ce casts and impressions af the one fossil in the sare
wrapping} and remember that au impression is very often of more
use than the east, The writer will be pleased to assist by naming
the specimens where possible.

At the Melbourne end of the cutting it will be noticed that the
red beds overlie a deposit of clay, Closer examination will shaw a
spheroidal structure in the clay, and this is ane of the indications of
weathered basaltic rocks; in fact, this clay was at one time good
sound basalt, perhaps better kirown as bluestone, and as it nucletlies
the tertiary rocks, jt is known as "Older Basalt.”

Some years ago, another rock was also visible just near here, and
it consisted of a smali conical outcrop of sandstone, being portion
of the bed rock of Melbourne and therefore of Silurian age AL
the present time, this is covered by detrita) matenal. The visitor
should note the difference between the clay and the ironstone ‘The -
clay shows just as a mass, hut the marine terliary has distinct layers
of deposition, This is one difference between the sedimentary and
the yoleanic racks,

Shells are by far the commonest finds, although sea urchins, sea
mats (polyzoa}, corals and even a shark’s tooth have rewarded the
writer's search. There is always the possibility of collecting some-
thing entirely new, ¢-g., for instance, on one occasion a large speci-
men of Cracibulinn, which is a genus of univalve shells, was also
found by the writer.

The Geological Survey Map of this area shows that fossil leaves
and frints were collected from the red sandstones in the carly days.

The following is a list of the sore common fossils from the Royal
Park cutting, and many of these should reward the first attempt of
visitors at fossil hunting.

Echinodermata— Gastropoda (Umnivalves )—
Psanumechinus woodst Laube Volsta ancilloides Tate
Cidaroid plates and spines Conus hyatus Tate

Crustacea— Conus héelervospira Tate
Crab carapace and chelae Cypraca brachypyga. ‘Tate

Polyzoa (Sea Mats) Natica sp,

Numerous species Corithinun flemtugtonentsis

Prachiopeda (Lamp Shells)— McCoy
Mogellania garibaldiana Cassis extgua T. Woods

Davidson Astratum johnston Pritchare
Magellawip insolite Tate Hatiotis naevosoides McCoy

Scaphopoda (Tusk Shells )— Lantelhbranchiata (Bivalves)—
Dentitiun mantel? Zittel ‘Linta bassit T. Woods

Crphalopoda— Lintatula jeffreysiana Tate
Aturia australis McCay Barbotia celeporarcca Tate

, Cucullaea coriwonsis McCoy

Nuenla sp,

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LUI —No, 8 December 8, 1936 No. 636

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA
‘The ordindry meeting of the Club wees held at the Royal
Society’s Hall on Monday, November 9, 1936. The President,

Mr. S. R. Mitchell, presided, and about 100 members and friends
attended.

LECTURE ON NATIVE FAUNA

The lecture for the evening, “Indigenous Fauna at the Zoo and .
in the Bush,” was given by Mr David H. Fleay, who has under
his care the Australian Section of the Zoological Gardens. The
lectitre was Ulustrated by moving pictures. Particularly interesting
were the studies of young birds aud animals, also a series of slides
showing some of the rarer marsupials,

The Presicent accorded the thanks of the Cluh to Mr. Fleay for
his most interesting and instructive lecture.

CORRESPONDENCE

From the Shell Company of Australia , stating that it was greatly
indebted to the ladies of the Club for assistance in arranging the
Company's exhibit at the Wild Nature Show..

Letters from J, Leonard and J. W. Woodburn, who were the
successful scholars in the Questionnaire Contest at the Show,
thanking the Committee for the prizes awarded them.

REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS

‘Reports of excursions were given as follow: Toolern Vale, Mr.
5. R, Mitchell; Botanic Gardens, Mr. L. W. Cooper for Mr.
P. H.R. St. John; Kinglake, Mr. L. W. Cooper for Messrs. A. A,
Brunton and W. H. Nicholls.

ELECTION OF MEMBER

On a show of hands Capt. G. Mclaren was duly elected as an
ordinary member of the Club.

COUNTRY VISITOR

The President announced that a country member, Mr. W, Cham-
pion Hackett, of Adelaide, was present, ‘and welcomed him to the
meeting.

134 Field Naturalists’ Chib Proceedings ee ae

QUESTION BY MEMBER

Question—Sparrows were seen stripping Jeaves off chrysanthe-
mum tushes, ‘The Jeaves had no aphis or thrips on them. Were
the birds using the leaves for thicir nests ?

Anseee's.— Mir, W. H. Ingram suggested that the leaves were
used for nesting purposes, as he had noticed Sparrows pulling
picees from asparagus creeper.

Mr. A. H. Chisholm thought thai the leaves were stripped mn a
spint of mischief, and that often buds and flowers were stripped
for no other apparent reason.

NATURE NOTES

Mr. A. R. Proudfoot reported that a Kookaburra had been seen
taking the young of a Yellow-winged Moneyeater.

Mr. F. Colliver, with the aid of the epidiascope, spoke on
Guthinygoien dJunense, a fossil marsupial frony the post tertiary of
the Darling Downs, ‘Queensland, This animal had the possibly
unique characteristic of the width of skull heing greater than the
length, the type specimen measurements being; width 680 mm,
and length, 634 mm.—maxiintiim measurements in both cases.

EXHIBITS

Mrs. M. ©. Freame.—Marine hfe, mchiding a live Elephant-fish
and sheil (Scitus antipodes), Philane dngasi and separated shell;
Pheasant Shell and egg capsules: Sea Hare, shell and egg girdle:
Sea Snail (Nafice sp.) and girdle; Sand Snail (Santuator fragilis)
aud exe girdle; Sea Slug (Stomtatella) and shell; Razor Shell
(Soien sp.)-

Miss A. Cornish—I@0 sponges collected at Anglesea,

Mr. E, F. Pescott—-Disarticulated skull and claws of King
island Wombat.

Mr. C. French,—Jhree interesting Grampians plants in Rower,
viz.; Rosy Bush-Pea (Puitenaea. subalpina (rosea) ), Blue Tinsel

Lily are cyonea), Swainp Heath (EZpacriv paludesa).

Mr. 5. R. Mitchell—Shell money fram the Eastern Solomens.:
abluy ial Vapaz, Sapphire, Zircon and Caysiterite from Yorringtm.
New South Wales: crumpled Slate from Bunker Flat. Victoria:
Slickenside (collected by Mr. H, Reeves) from the Eastern
Wonder Mine, Blackwood. ;

Mr, F. S, Colliver-—Carbonized remains of «a Grass Tree. taken
from chy bed 104 feet below the surface of Princess Street, Narth
Carlton, in 1900, during Board of Works excavations, Specimen
from collection of Dr, G, B. Pritchard,

Der. > ’
a ag Nicnowus, Prerastvlis synamata R.Br. 135

PTEROSTY LIS SQUAMATA R.Br—AN IMPORTANT
DISCOVERY
By W. H. Nicrrotis

The Sealy Greenhood (Pierestytis squamata) is an extremely
tare glabrous species, usually tinder 25 cm. in height. In general
the whole plant is similar to ?’. rufa R.Br., but has smaller flowers
—usually few (1-3), rarely up to & It is coloured like rufa, and
has more stem-bracts, 6-8, seldom fewer: the lower ones are
imbricate. -It has also a withcred basal rosette at time of flowering.

Apex of galea shortly-pointed, lower lip pendent. lobes about
13 cm. long; Jabellum ovate- oblong, fleshy, markedly glandular ;
extremely irritable, deeply chaunelled (no mesial ridge), typ
straight or almost su, bifid;+ lateral margins and sides of the
thickened and narrow base beset with long setae; column wings
almost quadrangular; upper margins net toothed or ciliated.

The writer has long sought this rariny among Greenhoods, and
interested folk throughout Victoria and elsewhere have been asked
to keep a sharp lookout for it, but without result until this s@ason.

Originally collected by Robert Brown, Matthew Finders’
botanist, in Tasmania, 2. syuamala has only been definitely
recorded from Port Lincotn, in South Australia, by R.S, Rogers?
and R. 1, litzGerald has recorded a very fine fon fron New
South Wales? but the Vietorian Records have always been
revarded as “doubtful,”

There are no specimens of 2. squemeta in the National
Herbarium, Melbourne; the late Baran von Mueller had personally
labelled an undoubted specimen of a comparatively new species,
Le, P. pusilla Rogers,t as follows: ‘This is the true 2. syuamata” ;
but there is no doubt concerning its true identity,

The matin reason for writing this paper is the fact that the
elusive sqitameata has at last heen found in Victoria. Two fine
examples were received from Benalla, in north-east Victoria, on
November 10, 1936. These specimens were found hy Messrs.
Victor R. Say and J. Stephens. Myr. Stephens first discovered a
colony of “beautiftl grey-green pterostylis rosettes’ early in the
season (Augtst), and beth gentlemen visited the locality of the
find on November 5, eventually discovering two separate colonies
within a radius of one mile. The plants were located on a dry,
rucky hillside. One colony of about twenty plants was growing
in rather good leaf- mould, between rocks; the other patch was
discovered in more open country. The largest specimen—a very

1. In the Benalla specimens, the tip of the labella varied from slightly
emarginate tu obtuse.

2. Trans. Royal Socicty of South Australia, vol. xxxviii, 1914, pp. 240-42,
I. xv,

: 3. Australian Orchids. R. D, FitzGerald, vol, 1
4. Trans, Royal Society of South Australia, vol. slit, p. 26, pl. i

r Vie, Nat.
136 Nicnoiis, Plerostylis squamata R.Br. Yol, LUT.

Pterostylis squamata R.Br,

fine example—was 28 cm. in height, bearing eight flowers. Two
other specimens had two and three flowers respectively. All the
others were past their prime, the blooms having withered.

herr Nrenates, Plerostyliz squentata R.Be, 157

Both Mr, Say and Mr. Stephens are to be congratulated on their
surprising discovery, which definitely establishes this species for
Victoria. .

Dr, Rogers gives some interesting facts concernitig P. sanumata
and allied forms, as follows; “The true distinction between P, rufa
and the other two (P. squamaiaand P. Mitehellit) would appear to
be thal rufa is the representative of those rufous forms which have
a membranous labellum, whereas squemata and Mitchelht repre--
sent the forms with thick, fleshy labella, Therefore, although
there may he some justification lor regarding Pf. Mitchell as a
varkty of . sqguamala, there seems to be very little for regarding
either of then asa variety of P. rufa.

Tt is probable that Jess confusion will be accastoned hy retaining
the specific rank formerly assigned to these three plants, than by
regarding two of them as mere variciies of the other.

After careful exammmation of living piants, 1 am convinced that
P, squamaia is a good and vahd species, It has not hitherto been
recorded from South Australia. and so far it lias reached me only
froin one locality, yiz,; Port Lincoln, where it was found blooming
towards the close af November.’

Dr. Rogers kindiy forwarded ihe Part Lincoln specimen (No.
4527a) for my inspection, Jiven a casual examination indicates
the distinction between this species and its allies, and fully justifies
Dr. Rarecs’ conclusions.

The examination of the fresh Benalla specimens convinced the
writer that upon the Jabelluni characters alone the species is
distinet, the niost salient features being the deep channel travers-
ing almost the full Jength of the lamina, and also the peculiar
formation of the base of the labellum-——more noticeable when
viewed from above (see tear:

The upper postion of the oblong-elliptical stigmatic plate is. also
interesting, ‘Lhe upper portion forms a definite hood und the tips
hae to be forced apart (see Figs, e, f), This hooded character is
referred to by FitzGerald in his deseription af P. Woallsit,

Key vo Inuusrration
Plerostylis squasnata R.Br.
@, &—specimens from Benalla (Vic.) (rediiced).
c—pollen masses,
d—column from front.
e—columrt head, wings removed ta shaw enupty anther, rostellunr and hoaded
head of sugmatc plate,
J—apper portion af stwmatic plate, free.
a—column from side
f—petal.
iHabelfum from below, showing obtuse tip.
jHabellum from side.
é—labellum from aboye, showing deeply-grooved lamina, emarginate tip, ete.
(Adl dissections enlarged varjuusly,)

138 Waoo Jones, The Toll of the Beaches Re ee

THE TOLL OF THE BEACHES
By Freneric Woon Jonrs

] suppose that the student of no other avian group is so depen-
dent 1ipon chance and adventure for ptovirling his material as ts he
who would make some study af the Petrels anil Albatrosses. He
is dependent on adventure, since to visit any of these birds in thei
hreeding haunts means, as a rule, a precarious Janding upon some
island situated in unquier seas. He ss dependent on chance, sinve,
short of visiting the islands upon which the birds breed, he must
await the hazard of stray specimens hemg cast ashore upon acces-
sible mainland beaches.

The opportunity for adventure can only come to most of us at
infrequent. intervals; but the opportunities of chance wait upon
every winter storm that sweeps our coasis The toll uf the beaches
is always being added to; but there are times and seasons when
wave-cast birds come ashore in unusual and surprising numbers.
There have heen times when the southern shores of Victoria have
heea lutered with corpses of the local Mutton Bird (7. temmros-
tris), and on oceasions the bodies of Prions are strewn in manbers
along the tide-line of many of our beaches. And, with these birds,
there is always the chance that some more unfamiliar Petrel has
come, wind-blown and wrecked, among the jetsam,

A Diving Petrel has been foynd at Ballarat, and a Wilann’s
Storm Petre} at Marshaltown, antl these are the extreme advance
guards of storin-driver) wanderers, the rank and file of whielt are
to be found among Lhe wrack along our southern beaches when the
storm has passed.

There is a wealth of ornithological material coming ashore wpon
our coasts, decomposing and heing disintegrated, and so lost to
science for ever, Only a hittle as ever preserved. Jredale, in New
Soul Wales, Whitlock, in Western Australia, and Condon, in
South Australia, have already done splendid service in gathering
and preserving the toll of the beaches over lintited areas, But it
should be possible ta achieve far more than can possibly be effected
by these isolated efforts, instructive and important though their
results have been, 4

Asa rule, the Albatrosses, Shearwaters and Petrels that come
ashore, wrecked in winter giles, arvive in a condition good ¢nough
for many of the purposes of scienee. Some are spffctently fresh
and pertect to suffice for the preparation of museum skins; for
recording the colour of Ue soft parts . for collecting of the purasites
and for making anatomical specimens. This ts the idea); thar a
bird should he picked uy and sent Lo a museun within a short time
of its conting ashore. Obviously this cannot always, ar even often,
be achieved, A fresh bird cast up Wy the waves runs varinus
hazards in different lucalities. In certain parts of Victoria, 1 it is

a Woon Joxrs, The Toll uf the Beaches 139

not retrieved [airly soon after a8 arrival, it will almost inevitably be
carried from the beach by foxes. .

Gn one occasion T visited the coast of Western Victoria upon
which at eye-witness had nated the arrival of a vast Moel of Mutean
Birds in a dying condition, He had seen thei cast up by the waves
iv thousands, and strewing the beach around a headland (Pomt
Danger), so that the share was cavered with cheir brawn corpses.
We svent together to the spot a few days after the disaster. |
was int searclt of the heads of the birds from which to prepare
skulls: but 0 did not secure half-a-dozen leads, uur was there a
single bird upon the heach. Strewn through the low bush for half
a mile inland were the remains of several Wundred lirds, carried
from rhe beach and torn by Foxes. The whole vast Neck had beer
carried off and chistnbuted over the inland bush, a wing here, a
body there, and nothnig felt whole. In alniost every locality on
aur southern beaches a bird will not lie for long apon the wet shore
before sea lice destroy its soft parts in winter or blowflies invade
iin summer. Bul, despite all these chances, our Museums. could
be greatly ennvbed with smuch-reeded cabinet sking if systematic
efforts were made to salve fresh birds soon after their arrival at the
merey of Ehe winel utd waves,

Apart altogether from birds heing picked wp in such perfect
condition as to be capable of preservation as myseym skins, are
hase casi heyand reach of the waves to dry up and heeome narural
mummes. A dried up and fairly intact bird may be just as easy
to identify, lo exariine and te measure as a Nwseinn skin and, more-
aver, itinuy possialy be prepared as a complete skeleton. Shert of
complere fresh bieds and complete dried up birds, there are the
decomposing renains that may be found on most beaches. Of
these there is always something of value to ornithological science.
The head aiiay be wore or legs intact, anda skull may be prepared.
The whole corpse inay retain enough feathers for identification,
and parts of the skeleton may be secured, There is litle or nothing
afa wayercast member of the Tubmares that m aot of use te the
ornithologist whose interest im avian structure is not linnted to
jearhers

With these ideas in view, | have attempted to secure correspnn-
dents in various pltces along our Victorian coastline, Mer A. HH,
Chisholm has given generous publicity to this scheme, and through
his agency | have received some valuable help, For the purposes
of the present communication, 1 will limit niyselé to the results
achicved by co-operation with my oldest carrespondent tn Victoria.
who has undertaken the patrolling af a conmparatively short line of
share in Westert) Victoria, During (lic last few years | have
received from this source material from whieh T have prepared 120
perfect skulls of Puffs tenwirvsins. as well as other parts of the
skeleton and numerons spirit specunens. OF the New Zealand

140 Excurnon te Toolern fale bs “sh9

Mutton Did (P graces) T have obtained 12 skulls and part speci-
mens, as well as spirit-preseryed whole birds. ‘he Fluttering
Shearwaler (P. gavtc) ts represented by five [resh birds. one skull
4nd une skeleton Of the Alhatrosses, the Black-browed Albalross
(2. inelanophrys) is fepresented by the two trésh \airds and six
skulls and the Shy or White-capped Albatross (2. ranta} by
cight fresh birds and eight skulls.

Of ihe White-headed Petrel {Pteradronm lessont), I have
received three decomposed specimens, from which skulls and part-
skeletons were prepared, and of the Great-winged Petrel (P.
imkroptea) ane decomposed bird. Two heads of ihe Giant Petrel
(Macronectes gigaitteus) produced perfect skulls, and two ex-
amples of the Cape Pigeon (Teptron capense) provided skeletons,
Prons of vatious types have provided ane skin, aver forty skulls,
and several spirit specimens; and the Diving Petrel (clecanoides
unineyir) is represented by two skins, half a dozen skulls, and
several spirit specinens. This is the toll uf the heaches as it has
been gathered by the efforts of a single correspondent in a. very
limited area of the southern coast of Victoria.

EXCURSION TO TOOLERN VALE AND COIMADAL

The Club excursion to the Toolets Vale Sanctuary was held on Noren-
ber 17, under favourable weather conditions; Dr, J, Mauritzon, of the Lund
University, Sweden, accompanied the party.

The principal object was ornilholory, and several speces of Iurds, with
mests, were note! Rufous Whistlees were reparted hy Mr. Davey to be
very tumerous this season, and their sate constitutes 2 happy feature of the
Sanctuary; several pairs were scon, and one nest wmder construction,

Ctliey species noted were: Yellow Robin (west), Speckled Warleler (wath
young), Vellow-tailed Thornbill {two nests), Orange-winged Sitella (nest)
Grey Fantail (nest), Grey Shrike-thrish Chest), White-cared Huncyeater.
Brown-hended Unneyeater {nest}, Yellow wiiged Noneyeater (nest), While-
hrowed Bablers [several used ests},

Owing lo shortage of tinte, the party was unable to yisit the more remole
pacts of the Sanctuary, where uests of Spotted Pardalope, Striated Thornbill,
Mistletoe Bird, Brown Thornbill (1test has two entrances), Mookalsurra,
Tawny Frogmouth, Grey Cureswong, Gushawk, White-wirned Chough and
numerous Elue Wrens are under observation,

Mr. Davey inenuioued that a Kuokaburra recently was scen to dive inta.a
facden shih and carry off ta a nearby tree a bird, which it beat apamnst x
baugh for several minates to remove the feathers. Wpon Ising called, Mr,
Davey seiwed his gun, crept swiltly behind some shrabs, and bred inta the
thick foliage close behind the Kookaburra, The surprised bird dropped its
victim: and Hed fo another tree, Upon alighting it began to “lapgl.” It was
(wend that the victin was amature Yellow-winged Honeyeater, a very active
bird. Probably it had been pounced upon by the Kookaburra while bathing
in the dew-laden lojiage of the shrub.

Tater in the afternoon we visited West Cotmadai, where Mr, WIT.
Nicholls candutted us to very good botanical collecting grounds. A fing
sight was acces of Daphne-Heath (Brackyloma daphnvider), anterspersed
with Tantoun (Leptospersnum flavescens), in full flawer, Among the arctids
collected were the Duck Orcaid (Caleana wator), Brawnheards (Calachilus
Robertsouit), Ruddyhoods (Plerystylts pusilluty and the Wax-lip {Glos-
sodww muajor).—S,R.M.

ial Rure, Unusual Colourtugs in Orchid Flowers ui

NOTES ON SOME UNUSUAL COLOURINGS IN
ORCHID FLOWERS
Ry tHE Rey, H, M. R. Rupr, Raymond Terrace, N.S.W,

|, Dineis penctala Sm—Yellow-fowenng form. The Rev. E.
Noiman McKie, of Guyra, on the New England tableland, sent
excellent specimens of what I was at first disposed to regard as a
new species of Dinris, found on Mr. T, P. Skinner's property,
“Green Valley," Guyra. Critical examination, however, proved
that in every morphological detail of importance the flowers con-
formed perfectly to the type of D, punctata, The following is a
description of the colouring: Dorsal sepal and petals canary-yellow,
the elongate latera) sepals green. Dorsal sepal veined on the Jower
half of the inner surface with purplish veins. Petals on purplish
or purplish-brawn claws. Labellum chyome yellow, with a few
nunute brawn spats about the two parallel ridges

] recollect many years ago finding the heliownpe D. punetata in
western Victoria, with a strong and delicious perfec. In New
South Wales I have never yet found it fragrant, thougly iz is com-
mon in many districts. Dut immediately T opened Mr. Mckie’s
paree], the perfume of Mr. Skinner's yellow flowers recalled to
nvind that af the Victorian 2. punctata, whick I had not collected for
forty years. ,

2, Dendrolium lnguforme Swa—Yellow-flowering form. This
came from Mr. F. Fordham, Brunswick Pleads, Northern New
South Wales, The type has white flowers, and I had never pre-
viously heard of any variation. Mr. Fordham sent flowers only in
1935, and these were bright yellow, In 1936 he gave me a small
plant, which bore one raceme: the flowers, however, were very
much paler than those of 1935, The variety came from the Casing
district,

3. Dendrobium Becklerti FyM—lalac flowers. This also
reached ime from Mr, Fordhain. Typically the flowers are whitish
or pale green, with purplish veins on the segments; labellurn white,
with erisped bright purple margins, Mr. Fordham's flowers are
pale lilac, marked as in the type. Mrs. C. A. Messmer, of Lindfield,
states that this year (1936) she noticed 3 few individual flowers on
her bush-house plants with this lilae tint.

4. Bulbophyllum Elisae Fv M—Dark brown flowers, Mr.
F. A, Weinthal, of Roseville (Sydney), sent this from the Dorrigo
forests. The normal colour js vivid green

The Committee.of the Field NaturaJists' Club of Victoria invites members
of- kindred societies who tnay be visiting Melbourne to attend the Club's
meetings.

142 Lisds Notes from Sperm Whale Head ies aint.

WIRD NOTES FROM SPERM WHALE HEAD

Since 1924+ J] have endeavoured every four years, during the
month of Seprentber, to make special observations on the Inrd life
in the Lakes, National Park, and adjacent areas at Sperm Whale
Head. The phject in view was to ascertain the following data;
(1) the average number of species to he seen each day duemg the
first week in September; (2) the total number of species ta be noted
for the week} (3) the number of days during the week on which
each species is noted; and (4) the total number of species to he
observed during the mouth, Thus, from these records it is possible
10 judge, with # reasonable amount of accuracy. whether any par-
ticular species or bird life generally is decreasing ar otherwise.

A reference to the result of my observations up to 1928 was pub-
lished in the Victorian Naturalist (June, 1929, Vol. xivi., No, 2),
In September, 1932, } was, unfortunately, absent from the locality,
so the follawing-year an attempt was nace to carry out the neces-
sary observations, bet T was unable (o complete them. This year
(1936), however, there has been favourable opportunity {or making
a further record, the result of which 1s most gratifying, in that ir
indicates that bere life an whe whole js being fully waintained in the
locality. This fact is revealed hy the folfowiny comparative figures -

; 1924 1928 1933 1936
Total number of species seen during week 5600 3300 DS)

Most secn on any one day .. .. .. -. 3F = =34 32 3K

Daily ayerage during week 2. 0... 0... 29 28 26 28

Total nuntber'seen during nenth., - . 71 72 *—) 76
*Triconplete.

It is pleasing to report chat some of the smaller birds, rately seen
or were not recorded in 1933, are now much more in evidence:
aniong these are the Willy Wagtall, Grey Fantail, Striated Thorn-
bill, Spinebill Honeyeater, Red-tipped Pardalote, and the White
fronted Chat, Notable among “absentees’ are the Brown Fiy-
rateher and che Yellow-tailed Thornbiil; the Jatter species, once
commonly seen, has not been recorded for many years; its cam-
plete disappearance is unaccountable, Most water-hirds are
anparendy holding their owns these include the Black Swan, Silver
Gull and Caspian and Crested Terns, Cormorants, perhaps, are
father tom jumerous—at least, that is the cantention of the local
fishernien,

An interesting fact is the recording, this year, of the heautifyl
White Egret on five days during the week, whereas it wag not
included in previaus lists. Ol ducks, the Australian Teal ane
Mountain Duck predominate. the latter being on the inerease 3 nesis
or young broods of hoth species have been seen. this season, on
swatips and waters at, or adjacent ta, Sperm Whale Head. Other
nests observed in the vicinity of swamps were those of the Black
Swan, Spurewinged Plover and Black-fronted Dotterel; previously

awn Malloe in the Novih-east 143

a nest of the last-1tumned species hac not been reported from the
locality.

Newcomers recently recorded are the Australian Spotted Crake
and the Little Grebe. The presence of Crakes hac been suspected,
and confirmation was made possible through the discovery of a
ireshly-killecdl specimen—a Butcher-hird’s quarry—iastened in the
fork of a swamp paperbark. Three introduced birds are definitely
on the increase

The Starling is multiplying rapidly, and 1s likely to become the
commonest species af the open-tmbered country-—at the expense,
T fear, of certain indigenous birds; already it has been naticed that
hallow Jimbs, formerly used as nesting-sites by Diamond Birds,
Parrots, etc., now are occupied by Starlings, The Blackbird first
appeared at Sperm Whale Head about 1921, when it was erto-
neously recorded as the Spangled Drongo, Its loud calls and
muiiery are now quite often heard in the bush, so evicently it has
come To stay.

Though ot a resident species, the Goldfinch has, of Jate, been
more frequently seen, sometimes in flocks of thirty or more; its
movements are influenced, clnefly, I think, by food supply.

The House Spurrow is sean only occasionally, though it is plen-
tiiul at Paynesville township, four iniles across Lake Victoria;
obviously, conditions here are not to its diking—a fact which, |
venture to sav, will not give cause for any feelings of regret. 5

Paynesvile, Fri BARV DN.

MALLEE IN THE NORTH-EAST

E believe that no record has heen published of the existence of auy
specimens of Mallee in the north-eact of Victoria, though it is kuowh that
Evtealsptas viridis wrows very near Rushworth, ‘

Some years aga I was much interested to learn from my brather-in-law,
Cr. W. Frederick, of Ciniambo, near Dookie, that there is rR considersble
quantity of mallee in the Gwatgardle Intis, abaut ten or twelve miles Troi
Violet Tewn, and including a few specimens on the Violet Towu-Nalinga
coad, which T had. ar a little distance, mistaken for specimens of Acacia
fycnemtha of spindly growth

On September 22, 1936, suided by Mr. Predenck, T visited a spot a few
miles te the east of that mentioned above to see and measure some of the
timber, which 1 had been told was «anusually Jarge,

The site was a stony hill where grew Eucalyptus aneliindora and BE.
palyanthoma, Acacia pyoraitha aud A. -acitacea, A few flowers were in
bloom; Caladenin carnea, Glessodia anajer, Lissanlhe strivosa. lM eramen
per'pliato was plentiiul, but it was only in bud.

Some mallze (BE, wridis} was growing by the roadside and we took some
measurenrents, a5 follows;

No.1 —Girth wt 18 inches was 36 inches; height about 35 fert,

Noa, 2—Girth a little less; height alsour 40 feet

No. 3—Girth at 1B inches was 24 inches. This had fallen and measured
34 feet.

Iv a adjninme paddock thore were many maliee trees, not growing
densely, however, over an area of several acres,

14g Excursion do Katgtake bi . ee

_— We measured the gitth of several and estimated the height, using #
24 foot fallen sapling te aid us. Following are the imeasuremetits +

Groth at 4 ft, Estimated Height

I, Sit, San, 46 fr,

2, 2fr Sin, (withour bark) SO4t. Gin. ffallen and measured)
& dit 8tin- 57 ft- :

4 Sit, Fin (Not recorded)

5 Sit Gin 55 ft,

6 Sit Gin, 60 tt

[ did mot think ta make any ¢stimate of the average size, bit from
memory I should say that ynost af the Irees were over thirty feet in height,
but as a rule much more: slender than any of those actually measured.

—A. W,R, Vrorano,

Note—Llt is dmibrhil if the presence of Ficalypins viridis, the Green
Mallee, in the north-east of Victoria, has hitherto been brought. under
tities, It is a locality where one hardly expects to find mallee vegetarion,
Throughout Victoria, hawever, there accur sparadic and sometimes fairly
extensive patches of mallee eucalypts as, eg., i the approach to the Werribee
Gerge, the Woipstick Scrub from near Evelchawk lo Kanisrooka, the
vicinity of Rushworth, and the scrub merth of Toglewand. A mallee con-
gener, 2. Kitsoniana, Gippsland Mallee, is found on. the isthmus: north of
Wilson's Promontory, and a specimen was obtained south at Scalers’ Cove,

There are, no doubt, other patches bere and ulere away from the usuel
mallee hahitat tu the north-west, and the question arises whether these
isolated Chainps are residual plants from a remote period when mallee veweta-
tion had a much more extensive range towards the centre and sowth of
Victoria> or are they, as is possible, inteusive migrants from the narth-
west district,

ii would appear fram the data lurnished by Mr, Vroland that, under
Javouring conditions of satl and rainfall some mallee cucalypis assume a
more robust habit of growth ankl a more definite arboreal character that
45 customary in the dry north-western areas,

In the cases specified it would be of interest to know if the characteristic
tuat system, of which AKucalppins dignvsa 16 a lypleal exarople, lindergoes
modification with the increased height and girth of the trees —C.D.

EXCURSION [TO KINGLAKE

The Cup Day (November 3) excursion ta Kinglake attracted ain atren-
dance of thirty members, the weather being particularly finc. Mr. and ‘Mes,
A. A, Brunton kindiy placed their week-end cottage, situated! aw (be Sugar
loat Road, at the cispasa) of the party and this was nude headquarters for
the day. Walks were taken to the fillies on Mr, Briinton’s property, and
also to the beautiful but little-known Mason's Malls in the Kinglake National
Park, One: of the outstanding sights af the day wag the large areas of the
Rosy Heath Myrtle (Baechea ramomssia), im full Aower, the colour
varying from deepest pink to nearly white,

Many other wild-flowers were observed: the Gorse Bitler Pea (Duawiesia
uitcane var, rusctfofa), the Handsome Flat Pea (Plarglabinn forunernnt).
the prockly Parrot Pea (Dileynia runiperina) and the Creeping Grevillea
(Grovillea repens), being parteularly fine, Among the avuhida catlestd
were the Coninion Bird Orchid (Chiloglattis Cunnis), Pim Fingers. (Cala.
denta caynea), a heavtiful colour form of a cew Natlonal Park record 11
the Early Caladenia (Caladenia praccox) ant Calachilus Rabertsoui, come
maitly known as Brownheards. hwe

th, WAL,

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol, LITE—No. 9 January 7; 1937 No. 637

THE FLELD NATURALISTS’ CLUE GF VICTORIA

The ordinary meeting of the Club was helt at the -Royal
Society’s Hall on Monday, December 14, 1936. The President,
Mr. S. R, Mitchell, presided, and abont 100 members. atid friends
attended.

CORRESPONDENCE

From Miss Raff, thankitig members for their expression of:
sympathy in her recent bereavement.

From Mr, F. A. Cudmore, thanking the Club for the sympathy
extended to him in his bereavement.

From Mr. Edwm Ashby, thanking the Club jor copies of the
Naturalist sent him to replace those lost ii fire some tinie ago.

REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS

Reports of Excursions were given as follow:—Heathmont, Mr.
F. §, Colliver, for Mr, E, Wilson; Beaconsfield, Mr. A. S. Challe;
Eltham, Mr. Chalk, for Mr. Tonge: Hobson's Bay. Mr. G. N.
Hyam,

BLECTION OF MEMBERS
On a show of hands, the followmg were duly elected as Ordi-

nary Members of the Club:—Miss'M, Ferguson, Mr. 1, W. Larig-
ford. und Mr. G. O' Neale.

PRESENTATION

The President, an behalf of the Conmmittce, presented to Mr. C,
J. Gabriel a hound copy of Victorian Shells, as a token of appre-
ciation for his valuable work.

Mr, Gabriel. in thanking the Committee, veferred to Miss Joyce
Allan's invaluable help. Her drawings of shells were perfect.

The President stated that a copy had also been bound for pre-
sentation to Miss Joyee Allan.

The President announced that the Committee had decided to
present ta each member who had joined since May last a Club
hadge.

The President then extended the season’s greetnigs to mem-
bers, and the Secretary responded on their behalf. The meeting
was adjourned for the Conyersazione, and supper was served in
the «lownstairs room. This pleasant mnovation was fully appre-
elated, .

140 fold Naturalists Club Proceedings bis aT

EXHIBITS

Mrs. M, E, Freame.—Specimens taken on the Club's dredging
excursion, including Bubble Shell (Philine angast), Chitans, Pill-
bugs. Sea Squirts, Ghost Shrimps, . Scale Wormy, Crabs, Sand-
hoppers, Barnacles, Worins, etc. Also Hermit Grats, Prawn and
complete carapace and other manine specimens:

Mrs. C. Barrett—Snake Flower Orchid (Cyutbrdinet suave),
trom N|S.W. Specimen grown in glasshouse.

M+. C. Barrett —Growing plant of the Moonwort (Bolrvchinum
lumaria), received from Mr. H. Morgan, Cobungra, Victoria.

Mr, A. Cornish—PFairy Penguin, found on Anglesea Beach,
and head uf Dog Fish, found en Hampton Beach,

Mr. E. 5, Hanks — Timber of commercial “Sandalwood”: also
portion of water-bearing root of Excalypius oleasa (Oil Mallee),
from Jran Nob, S.A,

Mr. C. ), Gabriel —Marine Shells. Civamys glaber, Linn, to
show vurielies: specimens from the Mediterranean: also Daresitt
australis, Sow. from N,S.\W.s Gastrachweny losmonica, T.. Woods,
from Victoria; and Aaanphreyun strange, A. Adams, from Vic
tori,

Mr. 3. R, Mitchell—Preaious aud common Opal, opalized wood
and qpalized sheils, Jrom White Cliffs and the Stewart Range,
S.A.

Mr. ©, French—Copy of Dr, John E. Gray’s Liserdy of Ans-
trolia. and New Zealand (London, 1867), a rather scarce publi-
cation,

Mr. Brunton.—Vossils, trilobite and coral, from Iinglake, Vie.

Mr, F. &. Colliver.—Specimens of the oldest land plant in the
world (Baragwanuthia longifolia), Lung aud Cookson. This is
an Upper Silurian fossil froma the 19-Mile Quarry on the Yarra
track, and the age was determined hy the associated Graptalites.

Mr. Ed. E. Peseott—Flower uf Dais colinifolia. (Thymelia-
cene), the South African Daisy bush, exhibited to show close
affuiry with the Australian Frintelen; flowers of Elococarpus relj-
culatns (cvaneus). the “Blueberry Ash’ (cultivated). mative to
Eastern Auatralia; flowers of Saveochilus Fitegavaldi, F, v. WL, the
“Wedding Orchid.” Tambourine Mountains, Queensland (culti-
vated); water-colour drawing of Moloch horridus, the “Devil
Lizard,” by Miss Rosa Fiveash; book, The Entomology of Aus-
trahe, by G. R. Gray, 1833, showing coloured plates of Phasana,

ried CoLeman: Pollination of Calla Lily 147

POLLINATION OF CALI LILY
(Zantedeschia aeihiopica)
Ry Ente Co_emMaNn

The so-catled “Arum” or Calla “lily” of cotlage gardens ¢ZuH-
tedeschia aethtopicu) is out of fashion, but garden-lovers who have
seen its pollination will always find space for a plant. Vhoueh
resembling an Arum, the Calla lily is not a pitfall influrescence, cts
it is so often described. The minute florets are pollinated, sceord-
ing to the best floral tracitions, by Hive Bees (2ipis anetlificu).
which visit them for their abundant pollen.

The apparently —ob-
vious explanation of cer-
tain structures frequently
proves erruneous. Fach
genus appears to be the
embodiment of highh
anginal and ingenious
adaptations, which se-
cure pollination.

Zantedeschia is no ex-
ception to the rule. |
have seen nothing aiore
impressive in flawer pol-
ination than the busy
“Deborahs” moving
swiltly over an orange-
coloured spadix, scratch-
ing away at white heat
in order to pack a few
more grains on basket:
(corbicula) already
banked Jugh with pale
yellow pollen,

In Zantedeschia the
petaloid spathe is chalk-
white, not green, as im
slriguitalyeuat (described
PN. Jan. 1936). See- Upper patio of spadix of Calla Lily, hearing
ing its dazzling purity male florets withering, and ovaries swelling.
in sunshine, one cannot
doubt that it serves to signal the willing bee, and, one assimes, [ren
a considerable distance. Male and female florets are borne on a
fleshy spadix. There is no sterile terminal portion, the florets
covering the whole of the spaclix.

At the base are sessile, funnel-shaped female florets, with,
scattered amony them, a few infertile, ovate male florets. | The

a A : Vie. Nat.
148 CoLeman: Patlinalten of Calla Lily Vol. LITE,

female florets, carpels merely, have neither petals nor sepals. Each
one terminates in a white, glandular stigma, which is cushon-
shaped until pollination takes place, or until the close of its period
of receptivity, after which the rounded, stigmatic dise sinks, form-
ing a shallow cup. The rest of the spadix, right to the summit, ts
covered with crowded, much-flattened, sessile stamens, the anthers
dehixing hy minute apical pores.

The pollen of most flowers is
discharged cn masse. In Zan-
iedeschia a gram at a time is
emitted from each tiny pore
until the whole of the stamens
are veiled in pale pollen. One
may rol) the bees of a spadix,
Let it lie for a few days tu see
the sheddmg of pollen, which
lies m wavy lines, like fine
sugar. Without the bees, pol-

* dnation would be intpassible,
for male and female florets are
otfectively separated hy their
pertods of maturity. Though no
pollen is produced by the sterile
male florets, interspersed among
the carpels, bees traverse the
whole spadix. thus pollinating
receptive female florets with
pollen collected on their hairv
legs and uncder-surface. T have
seen four bees ina spathe at one
period, each with — corhicula
piled high. One may see a bee
hover about a spathe while she
packs more closely her rough
masses, She will then re-enter
the spathe for yet a little more
of the precious dust before fly-
ing to the hive. It is a pretty sight to see the busy brown workers
ona vivid orange spadix, against which the baskets of pale pollen
show sa clearly,

When pollen is abundant, the bee makes orange-coloured paths
as she works up and dawn the heavily-powdered spadix. Tar-
dened with great, roth masses, often nearly as large as her abrlo-
men, she is forcert to alight an leaf or spathe while she packs it
neatly into her baskets, otherwise her flight must be greatly ham-
pered. I have watched hees at work on the Calla lites from 7 a.m.
until dusk. always confining their activities to these plants while

Ripe fruits of Calla lily, showing
cficténey of the pollination.

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST

Piate XIV

VoL. LUI

Fanuary, 1937

=. SPS alage

ad ’ Cornuotan: Pathination of Calla Lith - 14y

pollen is plentiful. Only once have I seen a hve on a spadix with
pollen of two colours in her baskets. It was late in the afternoon.
I assumed that, having exhausted the pollen af flowers upon which
she had been working, she came to the Calla lily to consplete her
lead, refuctant, ng doubt, to return to the hive with half-flled
haskets.

When dehiscence of the aithers commences. the single grains
are hardly visible to the unaided eve: yet one may see her ahieht.
‘with empty panmiers, and, next moment, the foundation of her
load is laid! One is impressed by her infinite patience in collect-
ing pollen grain by grain, and of such minuteness. later, when
the stamens are veiled in an abundance of pollen, she is just as
expert in dealing with it. The grains have a very adhesive exine,
80 that they éling together, a feature which facilitates packing into
‘baskets. They ate thus never dispersed by wind, wor are they
adaptecl to dusting imsect bodies. They must he consciously
removed by their patient collahorators,

The flowering of Zontedeschita
atthiopica covers a _ lengthy
period. The spathes are visited
by bees until pollen is exhausted.
Certain small ansects find the
florets attractive, but, as they
appear to die within the spate.
even though the passage is wide
énough to permit their escape,
they cannot. be regarded as '“offi-
cial” pollinators, I have ex-
amined a number of them under
alens. None of them hore pol- |
len on ite body, They are ex-
quisite little ¢reatures, and, if
removed from the Spadix, are
very active. Some haye been
sent to Mr, J. Clark for an
opinion concerning the object of
their visit to the spathes, ‘They
appear to be interested in the
infertile — sale florets. which
probably provide palatable tis- . Above: Much - flattened male

sites, A leaping spider frequents sb Asessile seen merely),
many spathes, and finds in the spits nrmuse- apical popes, Viewed
PIN ° * ; me from above. Below: Female floret
Snall msects ai easy prey. rhe (carpe!), with routidec! glandular
iruts do not invite dissemination stigma, Two infertile male fiorets
by birds. “They make no adver- 2lsa scown,

lisement, bet remain | hidden.

within the spathe until they become swollen and Wursl the convo-

150 Commaan, Pollination af Calla Lily bi ple

luted portion of it. Sometimes the stem heuds, just below the
spadix, and npe, yellowish fruits fall ta the ground, of are cast out
by the wind,

Though pollination 3s invited. increase is not dependent upon
seed A creeping rootstuck. as every gardenér knows, makes the
Calla lily a very suecessiul enmpetitar for space. It is frequently
found as a garden escape. In the south-westem corner of Western
Australia T saw acres of tand covered with beautiful specimens,
Mirrored in every pool, ancl the rivers they fringed, they made a
delightful picture.
; KEY TO PLATE X1V

A. A spadix, shawme (helow) female florets with pollei on stigmas. Male
florets {above}, just mature, and shedding pollen a grain or two at a time.
B. Vhe same spadix, turved round, wineteen days later, with stigmas
withered, pallen chnging im masses, C. A spadix showing bee with pollen
haskets partly tiled. The masses will be smoothed, and more pollen added.
Pollen emitted a Zeain or two at.a time, from minute apical pores, is gathered
with jofinite patience,

EXCIRSION TO ELTHAM

The morning of Navember 28 was very hot and oppressive, ind only eight
members, inclidiag: the leader, tock part in the excursion to Eltham. Ju
the afternaan the winil changed toa con] southerly, making conditions more
pleasant for the outing. “Bird life” was sof sb plentifal as we could have
wished, much ol the timber having been cut out, disturbing the nesting of
many birds. However, several nests containing eegs ar young were potcd,
including ane of the White-plumed Honeyeater, and one oi the Brown Fly-
catcher. Atong the birds seetrand hesrd were, Sacred Kingfisher, Ridous-
breasted Whistler, Bronze-winged Pizeon, White-winged Triller (one of the
male birds was hesy building a vest in a Boxtree}, Scarlet Robin (and
young Robins cut of their ests), Grey Thrush, Thornbills, Parralates,
Cuckao-Shrike, Qlivebacked Oriole, Watile-birds, Grey Fantail, Rufous
Fantatl (a male}, Yellow Robin and Dusky Wood-swallow. A Tawny
Brogmouth was seen sitting on its nest, containing a young bied about five
wieks ald, the other having left dhe nest on the previous day.

i w. C. TONGE.

THE MELBOURNE BOTANIC GARDENS

A large party attended the excursion to the Melbourne Botanic. Gardens
on Saturday, October 24, and were layoured with perfect weather conditions,
Mr. PR. FL Se. Juhn, s farmer President of the Club, conducted the party
through the gardens, pointing oul many interesting features chat are often
overlooked by the caswal visitor. The nursery, propagating, houses and
heated glass-houses were also yisiled, the leader explaining the various
functions and methods adopted in cach. Mr. St. John also gave a short talk
at the correct naming of Australian plants, pariting ont several cases where
the present sames ure incorrect, Tt is interesting to note that nearly all of
the trees in the Australian Section wera planied by Mr. St Jolm himself,
dining his connection of over forty years with the staff of the Gardens.

The thanks of the members are due to Mr. St, Jotm for his Irindness i
giving up his Saturday afternoon for ther pleasure and hats Wie

yl Cui hiver: Fossil Lacalittes in aud About Metbourne 151

FOSSIL LOCALITIES IN AND ABOUT MELBOURNE
; By F. 3. Couniver

’ Parr J]I—Beaumanys

To reach this locality other than by motorcar. it is necessary to
go by train to Sandringham, by tram to Black Rock, and then
by moter bus to Beaumaris, aligtiting at the Beaumaris Hotel.
The best collecting grounds are the cliffs and the beach for about
i00 yards on either side of the boat sheds,

All the cliffs in this neighbourhood are composed of ‘Tertiary
sands and clays, and at several places between Hampton and
Mentone, stnall fossil patches occur; but the richest place by far
is Beaumaris, which js well known for the abundance of a fossil
Heart urchin (Loven. forbes: T. Woods) and the number and
variety of fossil sharks' teeth that have been found there

On the Melbourne side of the sheds, the cliffs are practical
vertical, and a laver of some af these Heart urchins some feet wide
will be noticed extending for a considerable distance around the
cliffs. Many perfect examples can be picked up on the beach, Just
below this Lowenia band will be seen a layer of a large white bivalve
shell (ostwa sp.); these unfortunately are too chalky to collect;
but it is possible to obtain fairly good casts and jmpressions.

Other types of Sea-urchins—a flat, so-called “Biscuit” species
(Arachmoides iusiralis Vaube) and Clypeaster qippstuardicts
McCoy are also found here, but much more rarely. In searching
over the shingle, however, many small triangular fragments, not
untike tecth in appearance. may he found; these are sections of the
Biscuit urchin (Arachnordes)

Possibly the best-known fossils from this locality are the sharks'
teeth. At one time it was passible te dig them frmu the cliff face,
where they occur m a nodule bed. This section is now almost
inaccessible Owing to a cemented wall beme built over the more
easily-worked beds. A search among the shingle, however, should
yield some examples. They are rarer than they were, but never
yet have J failed to obtain a few specimens,

Most of these look like teeth; bunt some, that once helonged to
an ancestor of the Port Jackson Shark (Cestracion cavtozoicus
Chapman and Pritchard) are not unlike small beans, and are not
really teeth, buc crushing” plates.

Besides the sharks, many other genera of fish are represented,
and teeth, Jower and upper jaws, etc..of Porcupine fish (Drodan),
Blephant-fish (Edaphoden), Stingray (Myliehbatis). Wrasse
(Labraden) ete., ale not uncommon.

The mammals are represented by tecth, ear bones ( Cetotolithes)
and skeletal bones of whales, atid also teeth of seals. The teeth
are rare bur whale bone fragments, and sometimes vertebrae, may
be picked up on the beach, particularly after heavy seas,

aye Bak a Fs F Vite L,
152 Conuvek> Kosai Localities we and Aliaat Methane val in

Mollusca are here also. but with the exception of Oysters
(Olstrea) and some of the more resistant lypes, they are only
obtamable as casts and impressions; fossil Crabs (complete ones
rarely) in [eagments are common; and barnacles are further
trophies ta be obtained.

One must be a careful collector in this locality as several
different series are well represented. p

With respect to the fossils mentioned up to this stage, J have

been dealing with those suggested to belong to the Kaliminan series
‘anty. ;
Om the heack there are utimerous rolled fragments of a white
‘limestone, and fossils, mostly casts and mnpressions, but sometimes
the actual shells, brachipods, palyzoa, and sharks’ teeth may be
tHoundin them. These are definitely oltler, and are referred to the
Raleombian sertes. the sees name coming from Baleambe Bay,
~“Moraington, where similar fossils, both m type and assemblage, are
preserved 1 a blue clay. Again, similar fossils are to be found in
cthe previously mentioned (Part [) lower Tertiary beds at Royal
Pazk. cutting and Muddy Creek.

One of our Chub nembers, Mr. F. A. Cudmore, has disecyered
‘these blue clay beds 7 situ, at Beaumaris, - They occur undec
water, well out from the beach, and are only accessible at low
‘tides. These clays contain the white limestone nodules with the
casts and impressions which are found on the beach, as well as
the other typical fossils of the series, iueluding a fair series of
sharks’ teeth, and it is beheved that the teeth with the bluish stain
“that are found on the heach came from this clay and are thus refer-
able ta the Baleombian and not the Kalimnan (nodule bed) series,

Yet another age is represented at Beaumaris as will be seen from
the following: In 1897, Hall and Pritchard (Proe. Movel Sac.
Fic., vol, 10, p. 57) recorded a fossil marsupial toatl fron the
shingle on the heach. The specimen was submitted to C. W-
De Vis, who suggested that it belonged to “Polorchestes,”
a genus of gigantic kangaroid animals, and therefore it seems
possible that this specimen came from a still higher hed whieh way
be referred to as of Phacene age.

So at this locality we may collect fossils frony three: distinct ages,
the-Oligocene, Miocene and Pliocene, or, as sometimes stated, the
Eocene, Miocene and Pliocene,

Before leaving the district it may be well to note the conditions
of weathering and of erosion for this part of the Melbourne fore-
shore. The cliffs here are enimposed inainly of sands and clays,
and as sueh they offer little resistance tu the action of the weather,
in Jact “atinospheric weathermg”™ goes on far more rapidly chan
the "'sea’s erosunt,” which ts proved by the clifis thenuselves, as
‘they incline backwards fron the shore, Vet generally the sea is
diame for the cliffs falling. Here, and elsewhere, roo, far greater

Jun,

137 153

Coustver: Fossil Localities a and Albant Melbourne
damage is done by the destruction of ‘the natural vegetation, thus
allawing the weather full play on the soil.

To the beginner at fossil hunting, it is suggested that all strange
things be collected ; ohjects of no value can be thrown away later.
The writer well remembers his early days of collecting fossils, and
remembers, too, that some specimens now known to be of particular

interest were passed over through lack of knowledge.
The following is a Jist of the commoner fossils from Beaumaris,
and the majority of these should reward the earnest seeker for a

few hours’ work.

Batcomspran Serres (mainly as casts and impressions )—

Mollusca (Gasteropods )—

Cerithiuin apheles T. Woods
Voluta antiscalaris McCoy
Cypraea spp.
Conus. sp.
Cassis. sp.
Turritella sp.

Polyz¢a—
Various spp.

EALIMNAN SERIES—

Mollusca (Gasterapods )—
Liopyrga quadricingulata
Tate
Cancellaria wannonensis Tate
Tylospira sp.
Ancilla sp.
Notice sp.
Turritella sp.
Mollusca (Bivalves )—
Placunanonun tone Gray
| Ostrea arenicola Tate,
Ostrea manubriato Tate
Osirea ingens Zittel
Linmtapsts sp.
Glycinieris sp.
Palyzea—
Various spp.
Crustacea—
Crab fragments.
Barnacles
Fishes—
_ Tsurus hastals Ag.
Lamna. apiculate Ag,

Mollusca (Bivalves)—
Citeullaea corroensts MeCoy
Barbatia. celleporacea Tate
Spondylus psuedoradula

McCoy
Lumopss sp.
Glycmuerts sp.
Leda sp.

Cestracion cainogoicus Chap.
and Prit.
Odontaspis treurva Davis
Milyiobatis an00rabbinensis
Cha». and Prit.
' Diodoa formosus Chap, and
Prit. -
Edaphodon sweelt Chap. and
Prit.
Labrodon coufertidens Chap.
and Prit.
Brachiopeds—
Mayasella. compla Sow,
Echinaderma—
Lowvema forbest T. Woods
Monastychia australis Laube
Mamunalia (Whales }—
Scaldicetus macgeet Chap.
Setotolithes sp.
Sundry skeletal bones
Mmmnalia (Seals) —
Odl teeth

134 Gu, The Fasitanian Naliees'’ Stone Lyplements Vel Lint.

THE TASMANIAN NATIVES’ STONE IMPLEMENTS
Ry WH. Gru. (Melbourne)

There exists a very large and definite sevies of stone implements
connected with the many tribes indigenous to Tasmania. Dach
ston tool was apparently evolved from a clistinet type, and
presumably was made and used for a special purpose,

It is most diffeult ta understand why such a large series of
types exist, more especially when it is known that the tribes found
by white men possessed only two rough wooden weapons and a
wood fire-drill, The prohlem, then, is to disecaver why so many
types of tuplements were mace and what they were used for, The
nbject of this paper is to raise discussion upon this mystery,

A theory has been advanced that a survey of the whole feld of
Tasmanian stone culture would prove that there either existed a
previous race of pomitive man on the Island, or that the late race
lmown to us historically retrograded on account of their joug period
of isolation, With no infiltration of a more virile and warlike
people, they gradually became stagnant aud lost their vitality and
cultures. In support of these possibilities T offer the following
facts —

The Tasmanian natives had a definite series of stone implements
of such character that at least two or more phages of culture are
indicated,

From the earliest explorers. and up to the last of the Tasmanian
race, the only evidetice known of thei: wooden weapons, or any
uther objects made of wood, 15 that (hey possessed w crude spear, a
siniple waddi¢ about 24 inches long, and a wooden fre-drill.

Nevertheless, they had a most elaborate series of stone iniple-
ments, which may he classed into about twelve or more distinct
types. with many variations in size, and they developed many
types of a special character and form totally at variance with the
Australian Natives’ tools, and they ultimately evolved a very high
and perfect technique, probably superior to the Souther tribes of
Victoria.

Critical examination of any Jarge collection of ‘Tasmanian stone
implements should prove that there exists definite evidence of
changes from rough crude forms, and a primitive technique in
flaking and chipping to a complete advance displaying perfection
of forms highly developed in tvpe and stone culture. This ts
either proof of a gradual evolution on the part of one Nation from
the roughest techniqne io the most claborate in forms and work-
wanship, or that an earlier race existed in Tasmania who were
responsible for the rough and primitive cultures,

There is also io be taken into consideration the fact that a creat
number of the Tasmanian implements show very considerable evi-
dence of patinition bath in ochreous and ble colors, and as this

Jon. . + ' re
" ] Gia: Phe Toonian Navwes’ Stone Linplearents 135

gost

question of patination Is receiving much attention by English
archeologists, with the object of arriving at some clear sdea of the
age of stane implements by the depth and colours of the patina-
tion, its importance should receive attention here,

All stone implements unquestionably were made for a definite
Mirpose, and tradition from ancient times governed their fornis and
types, and as with the Tasmaniaty Natives there wus no outside
influences connng in to create new forms, or change their culture,
it is fair to assume that their respective forms remained constant
aver loug periods of time.

Yhe Tasmanian natives displayed ‘no evidence of creating new
forms or inateria) advance in their wouden weapons, possessing no
spear-thrower to give additional length, precision or speed when
throwing their spears, no shield ta guard themselves, no wooden
food-carricrs or domestic utensils of any description, and no
hoomerangs, And, further, they possessed no creative ornament or
carvang Ol any description, or totemic objects of a decorative
character. But there exists one curious feature in their culture
that has remained constant, that is, the art of weaving, in the
ntaking of rush baskets. Is this a iurther evidence of un outside
Jate culture coming in, and so connected with the race responsible
jor the nore advanced and perfect stone industry? Or does it
belong te theit original eulrure belonging to the first comers?

Although there are also many probtems connected with the
unknown uses of the Australian native stone implements, the mys-
tery attached to the Tasmanian nartves’ implements is still greater
for the reason that they had a much larger series of the use of which
nothing is known, Of their known types the [ollowing may be
classed and accepted as being made and used jor defmte purposes -

Weavy hand axe; For cutting limbs from trees,

Meditin hand axe: For notching footholes in trees when climb-
ing. and for adzing down wood to roughly fori weapens.

Scrapers: For gradually forming to shape weapons.

Convex scrapers: For finally rounding the forms ot spears and
wacddies.

Borers: Sharp-pointed toals for boring holes.

Knives: For cutting and general domestic uses.

N.B.—No mention ts necessary to inchide patural-formed stones
used as pounders, grinders or hammers, tor the reason that they
are not either flaked or chipped to form an implement, While
refraining from quoting extracts from the many authoritative
books on the stone cultures and weapons of the Tasmanian natives,
which are generally so contradictory, the following extracts are of
sufficient interest lo warrant attention im support of the yiews
expressed yn this paper :—

(From Bagichawk aud Cro, by John Mathes.)

Preface, Page »—TI! demonstrated, as 1 had never done Delore, that the

language of the extinct Tasmanians was the substratum of Australian

. as ' : pg le Vie, Nat:
Bre) Ona The Tasurnian Natives Stone Jurplemenic var ates

languages, Jeadiny to the conclusion that the Tasmaniais were the Arst accu-
yants of Austrplia, and settling, 1 hope, a question which had previously been
int doubt, viz., the relations of the Tasmanians to the Australians. -..

~ Page 44—Having now demanstrated beyoud all question, it ts heped, that
the ‘Tasnranians were the lineal desceawlants ot the primitive Australian

Page 22.—As compared with the miglemetits dud wedpans of the Continent
the paucity of these at the hands of the Tasmanians, che rudeness of the
torms, and the snferiority of the workmanship suggests a differunce of
deseent ui the makers. But the lower skili of the islamelers aay be ensily
accounted for by the supposition that their progenitors had already reached
Tasmania before the better-cquipped race reached Vietoria, and that, after
the first settlement of the island, which may have been made when It was
muecn mare accessible than caw, uo further communication took place with
the mainland, .— .

Ic is hardly fair io. compare the weayous of thy Tasmanians with these of
the Australians, and from the dissimilarity ta deduce absence of racial affinity
in the awrers, for the isolatior of the Tasmanians reduced them to depend-
efice for advancement on a very limited number af minds, aud they aay have
nade little or no progress after they crassed Bass Strait, whereas their kiu
on the mainland were overwhelmed by a race bringing with them superior
art, Which, once introduced, only faint traces af the work of the primitive
Intabtrants might he exnected ta linger on.

Tt is futile to ask whether all the Aistralian trplemens are represented
in Tasmania, Wf the implements af Tasmania he also found in Australia,
although of iniproved mantiacture, that sould he sufficient to yostity the
theory propounded herein so far az the argument from suvh belougines has
anv farce.

The dact tlrat certain weapans of the continental natives are absent from
the island sors part of Mr. E. M. Curr’s reasons for supposirg that the Tas«
maiwans were iat of Awstralran descont. a method of reasoning which would
lead wevidably to the conelusion that some of the Australian tribes were not
of Australian descent

If Joh) Mathew's contention that the last race of ‘Tasmanians
were the lineal descendants of the primitive Australian race. who
wert gradually driver south by the new hordes that came in irom
the north, who crassed over to Tasmauia by the original land ridge,
then it seems fair to advance the theary that they found a race of
people already in Tasmania, whom they absorbed, and that the
earlier race are responsible for che rough and crude implements,
and the late Vasmanian race known to us historically as responsible
for the finer and more perfect onplements.

On the other hand is the yery definite conclusinns arrived al by
Professor F, Wood Jones, whois accepted as one of the greatest
of our apthoriues. He declares that the Tasmarian native of our
day was never in Australia, but came irom overseas, Here are his
words, as printed an pages 14 and 15 at tus interesting booklet, The
Montshing instralian Race ;

Tf ihe Tasmanians were to teach Tasmania dryshad they inst, perforce.
have tome hy a land-bridge in the region of Torres Strait to Australia, and
fram Australia they must have migrated atross dm Jand that stretched across

the present Bass Strait to ‘Tasmattia, On this supposition it has become
halatial with one school of thought to assume thar the Tasmanians st ong

pd Gua: The Fesmanian Natives’ Stair Iniplenues 1S?

time urhabited the mainland of Australia, and from there were dtiver south
into Tasmania by the invading Australian native,

There is not a scrap of real evidence in favour of this theory

The Tasmanian native almost certainly came to Tasmania as a seafaver,
just_as the Maori came ta New Zealand, and the aborigine came to Australia.

Neither of these authorities discusses the question of what the
invaders found when they entered Tasmania—did they find an
wnoccupied isiand, or Was another race there? Professor Wood
Jones states that the Tassnanians were a true Pacific negroid

On the hypothesis that the Tasmanian natives came to the islanu
cither by water or land-bridge. secking a new country, the fol-
lowing facts are of historical interest:

1f they came as a horde or family group, and sol as pen voy
agers, then they must have brought their women with them to Wal-
liply, or, again, they carne as men Yoyagers only and fonnd 9 prinr
race on the island with whom rhey were ultimately absorbed; jst
as the Maoris did on their coming to New Zealand, who fotind there
the prior race of Moriori Ankl the following’ facts are important
to notice, that the Tasmanians, wherever they cany: from, brought
with them one of the most ancient cultures connected with primi-
tive man, the ose of and anointing their bodies with the sacred red
ochre—hlood—the symbol of life, Also the art of weaving—the
making of rush baskets. And, further, a snatter of great historical
vali is thal, in connectton with their stone culture. they bronght
with thein aud retained their specialized individual stone inrplement
types. whose forms are quite distinct, and totally at variance with
any existing group types of the stone cultures of any of our Ans-
tral nateves.

Ty connection with this important statement is. offe'ed the
opmion that if these specialized types of stone implements can be:
traced back to their original creators in the Pacifie island, ar ¢lse-
where from where the Tasmanians emigrated from, then there lies
the sohtition of the present mystery of knowing definitely from
whence they came. Thus their knowledge, customs ancl use of red
ochre, which is in itself a single kink in the chain of evidence we
possess, proves that, 110 aatter how they came, or where they came
front, they knew of, brought with them, and maintained the wse of
throughout their Jong period of life, the most ancient cult con-
nected with the life, customs and religion of primitive man.

This, ut least, is of supreme mportance to help prove that [along
with the Ausivalian natives) the Tasmanian natives originally
belonged to some branch stock of ancient man.

The stone implements of the lost race of Tasmanian natives con-
shitute the only evidence we possess on the subject of theiv
antiquity, Without exception, their implements are af the Palao-
lithic period (25,000 years), aod generally they possess certain dis-
fin¢t Forms and) characteristics. such as the “duck-bill,’” with its
mest minute clupping technique, the elliptic fornt of medium-size

: , spe Vie. Naty
158 Tangent: Yarra Jyaciow ta Britqnia Falls Mars aoe

haid-axe, the almost perfeet “angle” formed implement, the blutir
bullenosed tool, and that still more mysterious stone, the periectly
round “muffia,” with the edge elaborately faked perpendicularly,
of which the use is unknown.

Comparisan between the most primitive types in Forms. wrth no
effort to protect the hands froin injury when using the tool, iatid
mostly only roughly faked, withour finally chipping the working
edge, and those of the very many distinct forms of specialized in
plenents establishes that there were either two distmct cultural
periods, or that the primitive rypes represent the stone culture of

one race, and the perfect types the culture of another race,

{
t

VARRA JUNCTION TO BRITANNIA FALLS
By A. J. Tancenn

On 2 heagtilal day early in December I went for a walk out from Yarra
Junction, over the verdant countryside, alone yet never aloue. My destin.
tion was thd Britannia Falls, about sewen auiles distant. 1 had dott the
walk twice previously this spring, so J knew what te expect, and I was sur-
rounded al] day by Mount Donna Buang, Little joe, and Mt Tugwell, sear
which are the Britannia Falls,

I made a detour to find Orehide like Prerastylis falcata to a awatnp. with
Thelymsitra epipactnides, and nearby, om the less wel ground, Microty and
Prasophyliwn odoratuns, far itis a lend of swanips, good ior collecting im
though not toa early an sprig. Drosorn {tenia was here, alsa Afitrisacsir
serpyllifolia. This pretty, small tubular cream-coloured Anwerme glam
has flowers so sntai} that even a pocket lens will hardly detect the organs
to allow inspection, So | sought the aid af the Gavermnent Botasist in
determing it, Tt is so unlike its sister, A. paradara, that one must be for-
given if the [amily likeness 7s unrecognized, and it is regarded as rare and
alpine, North-east Were, at 390 feet ahove sca-level, it grows outside the
swampy conditions, hut when the soddened nature of the country has passed
jt will be abundant in the erstwhile swamps. A lowly. interesting plant,
now recorded South,

Two Asperulas are here This genus was revised at the Koyal Baanic
Gardens, Kew, m 1928, and is 30 diffeule that experts are deogived by its
connection with the Galiums: 4. Gravta, which 1 had previously found on
Mt. Festhertop, at 6,000 fost, is here growing on clods of carth just above
the water, and nearby in water, clinging to Pon cacspitosn grass by its
rough stems i¢ the tall 4. europiylla, up ta 18 inches high. What a con-
tras? in size!—the farmer so small as 10 be easily passed, and the latter so
tall, refusing to be unrecognized. But 1 find | have deisyed tao jong in tins
interesting swamy, $0 drag myseli away from nel Utticuianss, Bauerias,
Seypandra, talk Epacrids, and handyome Lycopodium foterale. T had in-
fendéd crossing the Little Yarra two hours earlier, if T was to collect round
the falis, still some miles distant. The old tintber track passes through 2
long swamp, where are seen Phragunites, Patersonia, tall Oloavia sannie
fosax, with many dlack-heads containing the orange-coloured larvae ol a
native fruit Ay, ‘Trypetide (kindly identified by the Government Biologist),
The fine riyér is closed to fishing al] the Year roupd, as troutlets. are turned
inte dc higher ap, where, even at Powelliown, ben inites distant. it ts a leau-
Gfal mountain stream,

Tr is grase-tine, so Helinapogen, AMierelens, Aira, Stipa, Dichvlacine.
Pow, Doauthamna and Calawagrastis are profusely flowering, with J2hyliasta,

Leer Paockit: Yarra Jehan to Britauma Falls 159

naw Tetrarrkena Although ole inay reach the Brilaniia Creek ty cross-
roads, one of theni three indes from Yarra’ Junction leading tp Warhurtan,
and be Janded not more thay one and a lislf miles frorn (ie falls wear Bri-
tania House, bo prefer to keeps to the discarded tram-irack, turning off the
inarl) noad one atid a hall miles fro the towiship. The iron raila have been
removed Front the track, and much material lies slarked ailjacent to ths. rail-
way line, for transmission to Japan, it is said, by way of Methournc There
are Hot wanting pleasam collecting areas cr ronte, Bawksiv cotinm is abun-
dant, but showing traces of bad treatment by the disastrous lush fires of a
year or two ago, when the whole countmyside suffered severely, Tall yurple
heads of Comesporma (Bredewcyers) brighten the bush, with lowly Lobe-
has, two Poltenmas and Dillwyuias are m flower, Hoteas, three species, and
as inany of Ledrospevntiin, are just aver

Passing the seasoning talns af the Hardwood Compal, (he now die
marie track lweormes wet, rough, and is lithe used. Here. Ooarytatnvin
alpestre and G, cliphomn sthuw up. but-only 4 few flowers remain ai O, prop
orpens, (hdl was a lilaxe amunth age: but ile fal, pendant qiods are pretiv
with their long, this, potted bracts Ob the banks as Martaatini in Aower
and fruit, and, fowering profusely, Gomphatabiave: its large sulphur Rowers
nre a deliwht. Acacias are here abundant also, 4. dealbota, aiyced ils, pele
mueris, VeniiciHala, muviifota, deli. Jongissniet, rwelanemvon fave
finished flowering during the past month 4, payvevdrie, a tall slr, like
verticiata, some cight teet high, sa different from the lowly form at Sand
rinyhain, arid soumuch lilee the second species as to be yegarderl, ie late Mr.
Rodway says, as like a broad-leayed form of vertiriflata

Innunierable graceful A/sopfata tree-erus revel in the mavntain gully
below, nerHajis geteine refreshmeit irom the drifting motsiure Aoating back-
ward and forward with the changing winds in the mountains. Lt is a sign of
rain to the young mountaineer tf the clouds of mist blow iy the required
direction, and he leans to note that the Currawenge leaves the hesgits Jor
the lawlands When rarty weather 7¢ snumibent. A feeder eveek cones i ot
iny cight hand, and 7 nute Primes, cavicer, cyperacequs plants and centella,
ranuncilns plebcjus, Ntellaria flaccida, Semetca, Geatiate, aud ¢ very pleasant
surprise, the old English scented anusk (Ailes mroscheties).

T lave now arfived at a long, steep chute on the amountan side. above ine
on my right, where timber was shpped down after beng cacried unary mies
on trucks trem Whe jorests heyond. The old tables and oulleys, and the
large heap of saswluér, proclaim aloud what forest aiguts had been late low
in the past. A white hoard wailed bi a Fucalypt an ing left woul! tell wie, iF
the writing were now visible, that here are the Britannia Falle The height
ahove seaslevel is 770 feet, and the falls slemselves are 15D tees fram tou
to bottam. A fireplace indicates where the billy iway be boilec, and the ereele
may be scen a faw-vards distant. One takes wertiag of fires from the several
tarve clearings extending up atid doiwn the feully sides, meade as fire-breaks
after the sact thes of the past. Nothie else imeicates thy falis lo Vhe
stranger, 59 he wiust Lossick for Jamsell, as L had tu dea A Leach, much over-
grown, may he followed for 100 yards, and the sound of rushing water will
de an indicator. But be warned, as the teach is not only overgrown, but
leads aphill. and unseen boulders are apt to come in the way of the unwary.
A otek is of ltthe use here. Aiter being painfully struck oan the Inec
cap, and ieeling it bleedivg, 1 rolled over heavily, and was glad ta rise ani.
recover jrum aly shock, sittine down the while, I follow up and down
streain, but the banks are overgrown, and large rocks jriyede provress and
make climbing difficult, This is the source of the Yarra Jilbetion pownship,
water supply, and the Trust has laid large pipes nming tram the damed-
up vreck, first to the filterig basins, in ~he ground, re direet the weter to the
distant houscholrds-

j bie ci Vic. Nat
140 An Uencual Blow fly Pietiin Vai, iit:

Close to Britannia House, and for at least four miles beyond, a nicely
graded ryad, i3able for. motor trathe, has been constrieted, which sins across
newly bnilt bridee This passes above the timber chute near the falls, and
prowides a delighrinl return journey, though the walk may be foetinued
much further, al some buts are reached, that Ray Scouts haye permission
ta <are for and cantrol. A local mnovesent bas been on foot for the preserva-
tion of the ald bridges ruming along the trick, so that firewood might aot be
made of the bridge material, and Ws uany places, without the cordiroy'-hke
flattener timbers, inuch of the track would be inipassable, as T found i the
wetter part of niy earlier spnng wists. The picely-graderd road back ais
way is delightful ta the walker, whether botanist of hiker. The festooned
Cleruatis-covered irees are refreshinws as the beoad road passes over the
eullies, sometimes on one side, and at times on the other side of the shady,
verdure-olad hillsides.

A freak specinien of Indian Penny wort, Hyerncaile (Centellay, asitica’
was collected, altered by environment fram a terrestrial to au amphibian
plant, Usually this plant grows in damp situations, and has dark green, thick
Iraves, tanthed and sinyate, witha few crowded red flowers. Tt increases by
rooting at the ftodes in thick roots. Often it is matlike My freale, three fect
long, growing on ihe edge of a shallow narrow pool, was anchored at eacl
end a¢ 5 terrestrial. Tt is branchicss, and the cylindric stems growing in the
water had become flat and membrancous, with closcly-set scales hike the
teeth of a sayy At dhe nodes are crowded rootlets, some beimy as Jonyr xs 10
inches and 12 mehes, cimnjlar to the Aattencal stems, with additional thread-
like or hairy routlets at antervale af hali-an ich. The leaves are several]
inches apart. wath spike-like edges resembling soft prickles, aud arc on long
stalks, Was the plant reaching owt for tke earth at the bettam, andl could
jt survive after the pou) had dried up? This plant has known medicinal
virtues,

Other rarities fanned were the Huttercup (Ronanculns lappaceis), with ton
petals Cusanily found with jour er five petals only), and two species of
Micratis Orckil CAS. parvifore an) ML eblonya), both Morched, viscid. and
infested with thrzps.

AN UNUSUAL BLOW-FLY VICTIM

Av anterestiny case of fly slike wie encountered recaith, while duanting
fur insects i the Jow cuastal serub at Black Rock. The day was warm, and
Hinestongue Lizards were on the move. One of these reptiles, which 1 had
picked wp to examine for ticks, had a wound about hall an inch a ¢hanieter
an each side of its hody—jusr as if someone had shot it with a rifle of sinall
calibre, and later decay had enlarged the openings, The holes appeared to
communicate wilh Une body cavity, and ce the Nzard strained to escape ny
erip, 1 was aware of something rising to the surtace in cach wound.
Numerous maegors were bine close tugether, and side by side, with their
heads directed inte the lixard’s witals, Using a pair ot forceps, we ex-
deawoured to obtain specimens, hit at the frst tolich the maggots rapidly dis-
persed into the bedy of the hast. We kifled the liaard. and found, an opening
it up, wneggots in every pare oi the body cavity. However, actual arrack
of the tissues was confined to the original wound and its neighbourhond,
aml to the Tesh abour the vertebral relumn. fn the latter part many ribs
altel vebtebrae had been completely siripped of flesh, Mise Raff, whe
examined the Taeye, pronowiwed thei to be thase al aue at the sheep blow

flies.
ROBIN D, CROLL.

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LEIT.—No, to February 3, +1937 No. 638

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUR OF VICTORIA

* The ordinary mecting of the Club was held at the Royal
Society's Hall on Monday, January 11, 1937. ‘The Senior Vice-
President, Mr. Geo. Coghill, occupied the chair: About 90 merm-
bers and friends were present.

]t was announced that the President, Mr. S. R. Mitchell, the
Hon. ‘Secretary, Mr. F. S, Colliver. and several other members
of the Club, were attending the meeting of the Australian und New
Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science, at Auckland,
New Zealand.

The Chairman took the opportunity of wishing al] members
a happy and prosperous New Year.

Capt. G. McLaren, a new member, gave an interesting address
entitled ““A Ramble in New Gumea.” He showed many fine
lantern slides and moving pictures dealing with native lite and
customs, including some valuable films illustrating a visit te Tench
Island. which had not hitherto been visited by a white tian and
whose inhabitants are completely primitive. He related many
incidents illustrating the psychology of the Polynesians anel
Melanesians in this area. A timber of questions asked and
answered indicated the interest of the members present,

CORRESPONDENCE

From Miss Joyce Allan, of the Australian Museum, Sydney,
acknowledging the presentation hy the Committee of a bound copy
oF the Shell Book and assurmg the Club of her further assistance

in the juture.
| ELECTION OF MEMBERS
On a show of hands the following were duly vlected: As an
Ordinary Meimber of the Cluu: Captain G. McLaren; as Country
Members: Messrs. G. McIntyre, Balranald, New South Wales,
and Albert Green, of Macedon.

NATURE NOTES

Mr. W. H. Ingram referred to Blackbirds eating carerpillars
voraciously. Mr. V. Hi. Miller stated that he had observed Starlings
at Colac gorgmg themselves on caterpillars.

Mer. Chas. French said that he had attended a flower show at
Anglesea and in a class for wildflowers had noticed a vase con-
taming at Jeast 1,000 native orchids, and another containing almosi
as many.

162 Field Naturalists’ Club Proceedings Wree bg

It was resolved, on the motion of Messrs. French and Proud-
foot, that this matter he referred to the Committee for considera-
tion.

Mr. Charles Barrert mentioned the necessity for 500 acres
of the Corranderrck area at Healesville being added to the Sir
Calin MacKenzie Sanctuary, especially for Koalas. On the motion
of Messrs, Barrett and Hyam, the matter was referred to the
Cominittee for immediate attention. ‘

The meeting then adjourned for the Conversazione.

EXHIBITS

Mr, Chas. French,—Specimens of Sprranthes sessis, “Austral
Lady's Tresses.” and cotion-lke scale insects, Puluwinarta fecla, on
AKunesca; both exhibits were from Warburton,

Mr, A. R, Varley—Tortaise shell; operculum from Trbe
jowrdant; Ivory nut from Solomon Islands: marine Fungus from
Point Jonsdale; “dilly-bag’’ from Bloomfield River, North
Queensland; mangastan from Java.

Mrs. Chas, Barrett—Orchid, Coombtdium fridifolium: and a
lily (Crinum sp.) trom Queensland; both cultivated in a glass-
house,

Mr. H, Stewart—wNinely species, mostly in flower, of flora
collected at Mount Balfalo, altitude 4,000 to 5,600 feet, including;
Aciphyia simpheifolia, Mountain Aciphyll; Brachycome calocor pa,
Lobe-seed .Daisy—achenes immature; Caladenle cariea, white
forms; Cardanune dictyosperma; Epacris breviftora; Hakea vit-
tata, showing two seasons’ fruit; Hterachlee redolens, Sweet Holy-
grass; Hymendnithera dentata, Tree Violet—foliage only; Lotus
austvalis; Phébahum padocarpoides, P. squamnutoswn, Pianelea
alpina, Podocarpus alpina, Mountain Plum Pine—foliage only;
Tricoryne clatior, immature flowers; Winilenbergia wiacaeRora,
iinmature flowers.

STUDY OF THE SOIL

The Study of the Sott tu the Field is the title of a very useful
and interesting little book by G, R. Clarke, Lecturer in Soil Science
in che Department of Rural Economy, University of Oxford. It
is published, at the Clarendon Press, under the auspices of the
Tnperia! Forestry Institute, University of Oxford. The author
has made a special study of the field aspect af soil work, which
demands, not only an extensive knowledge of natural science, but
also “a faculty for keen ad jcerrate observation of details which
are by no means easy of observation.” Russia leads in pedolagy,
but Europe and America are not far behinds; and even in Aus-
tralja we have soi) scientists who ate doing much valuable work,
And field worle is of the first importance; when a soil sample 1s
taken from irs environment it “dies.”

a Luoyp, Further Notes on Australian Utricularia 163

FURTHER NOTES ON AUSTRALIAN UTRICULARIA
WITH A CORRECTION

By Frawers FE, Lroyp, psc. (Wales), F.R.C.5., F.L.S.

Last April, in company with my colleagues in the Department
of Botany of Sydney University, 1 visited a locality rich m four
species of Utricularia, one of which was U, biloba. It bemg the
close of the season this plant was scarce, and was found growing
on the higher and drier portions of the habitat, a small, sandy
swamp fed hy drainage from surrounding low rocky and sandy
hills. Unfortunately this locality, included in the suburb of
Malabar, near Sydney, referred to in my previous paper im this
magazine (Hct, Nat, tii, 91-112, Oct., 1936) as La Perouse,
which is the general locality on the north shore at the mouth of
Botany Bay, is soon bound te disappear, as a habitat of native flora,
before the advance of town building.

The substrate on which
U. biloba grew was a dense
mat of fibrous material
wixed with a little sand,
and very few evidences of
leaves could he seen, On
exluming the buried parts
T found only stolons, and
no leaves, except a few
spatulate ones = which
turned out to belong to
if. cyanea. [It was notice-
able that the end of the
flower scape was buried
at a considerable depth,
about 5 em. The traps
were found to be of the
{f. aulgaris type, which
are found also on C'. stel-
farts and (7. fleruasa, to
mention Australian spe-
cies, but in particular detail
Ee they are identical with

Ig. | ‘
those of OU. resupruata of

a, Lateral view of young flower, some-

what distorted by pressure; 6, front North America, and SUE
view of caralla: ¢, scales stihtending other Species. The failure
fioral pedicels: d, calyx with ovary to find the leaves of this

sp. spur, plant was the more dis-

appointing because of the
absence in any of the current descriptions, all based on the

4 IME, ' Vic, Nat.
164 Lioyn, Further Notes on Austratan Utricularia Vaihbath

original of R. Brown (Prod. 432): “Leaves very small and rare
at the time of flowering” is the sum of informatton.

A few days later another visit was paid to this swamp, and
I found in a little pool in some depth of water the complete body,
with exception of scapes of which there was no evidence, of a
plant which appeared so unique in form that I was taken by
surprise. The only other species which it resembled, and that
closely, is U. paradoxa, F. E. Lloyd and G. Taylor (in press)
found in Angola, West Africa. The plant consists of a network
of fine horizontal stolons buried in the mud with branches ending
as leaves sent up into the supernatant water. Illustrations were
afforded on plate 12 and fig. 2 of my paper (1.c.), A search in
various Herbaria (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth) failed to
discover any material corresponding with the plant in question, save
only a small fragment collected by Mr. C. Moore,? probably in
the same locality or in one of the ponds of the now Centennial
Park, Sydney, where it was found also by Miss Alma Melvaine, of
Sydney University, Moore's fragment, which had evidently been
seen by Ferdinand v. Mueller, was a part of a leaf, but it remained
unidentified when I found it in Melbourne,

In the absence of evidence
to the contrary, T concluded
that T was dealing with a
novelty, and IT deseribed it,
“despite a lack of flowers”
(1 quote from my cited
paper), under the name U,
Lawsont,

On my return to Sydney,
we again visited the locality
ahove described, and we
now found the plant in
flower in the pool which
had previously yielded the
sterile material. This time
I was able to get the plant
entire out of the loose mud

Fis, 2 so that the scapes came out

Shadow photographs of floral parts. with stolons and leaves

Specimen in Sydney Herbarium. E aah

attached. On examination
it turned out to be U. biloba R. Br. This was December 28,
1936. At this tine we could find no flowering scapes except in the
pools and ditches in deepish water. In places not submersed I
found mats of minute leaves showing the branching form charac-
teristic of the species, but no scapes. [/, Lazeson? must therefore
he discarded. Instead of a new species we have, however, com-

Feb.
wat

Laovn, Farther Notes ow cfystralion (tricular 165
plete knowledge of a plant previously known only by its flowers
and scapes-

.. The plant consists of a widely-spreading and frequently branched
horizontal system of thread-like stolons penetrating the muddy
substratum at a depth of four te five cm, The lower end of
the acape is colourless to this depth, as this arises from one of the
horizontal stotons, it being, with them, buried in nmd. From
these stolons leaves als artse through the mud into the supernatant
water where they branch, and have the appearance of littie trees.
The stolons are provided with many traps on carher long, delicate
stalks. Traps occur to sonic extent on the green exposed portions
of the leaves, but these are much smaller and not often well
developed, The lasal part of the scape bears several rhizoids,
agairl sinmlar to those of L. onlgaris. The main axis of a rhizoid
near the base bears very short branched leaves, the segments of
which are Gghtly curved, the whole, with its acighbour serving
as an anchonty system of barbed struts, The seape 1s tall
{upward of 40-50 em.) and is very brittle, The Aower in addi-
tion to being generally blue in colour has two yellow sivellings
on the palate The pod ts orbicular, about 3 aom. in diameter.
The seeds are angular, due to mutual compressiun on the large
orbicular placenta. ‘The scales of the scape are “basisolure,” that
1s, the base is prolonged backward making the scale peltate.

The form which is produced when the plant grows in mud
covercd with deepish water stands in distinct contrast with that
Which is produced in wet sandy turf The Jeaves of the fonner
are long aud mach branched, in the latter ininute and simple, being
inerely a tapering, terete leaf af few mn, length, or somewhat
longer and having one or two branches, correspondingly shart.
Densely packed, they form a mat with a curly, grcen nap quite
different from the teen mats formed by other terrestra) forms
with spathulate Jeaves. The plant cannot strictly be called (er
restrial; it has two farms, am aquatic and a terrestrial,

O. Schwartz (Plontae novae vel mthas cognilas Ausiretivc
trepicae, p. 93) cites LU. bvoba as a prinvtive Australian terrestrial!
form with which his U, ¢ervafophyllaides is in close relationship.
Through the kindiess of niy iciend, Professor von Wettstein. of
Berliu-Dahlent, I have recerved a small fragment of the ype
material of OU. ceratophalloides, examination of whicli shaws that
the traps are quite those of LU’. walgaris, and are therefore similar
to those of U. Orlebe. Both on this count and beeause of the
basisolute scales as well as, as we now know, on the general form
of the vegetative parts, Ihe comparison made by Schwartz ts just
enough. As to the “blue” flowers, this is less cerlain, but [ have
not sees then. But it nay be seriously questioned that U, biloba
isa “primitive Australian fori,” The traps, with basisolute scales
anc the form of the plant body are all eosmopoliran in type, With

- ' - Vio Net,
Le Luove, Purilcr Noles on Auslrahan Uleiesleria vaLnt

Schwartz's wew thal Kamieuskt's system is due for revision 1 can
only agree.

UL simples Ro Ar: J found tins very small plant near Albany,
Westert) Australia, probably in the type locality. The underground
parts are very scanty and fragile, and very difheult ta exhume.
These were found to be quite hke chose of U. lateriflara, including
the traps, whieh are among the stmrallest found in any species of
Ettricularia, The figure in my previous paper (Le. p, 96, fy. 12)
shows the structure. 1) is interesting ta note that R. Brown
associated these Ewo species without any knowledge. of the parts
other than the Hower aud leaves, which latter are of doubtful
value. The flowers are of very similay jorm, There are three
species kinwn of this type of trap, . calliphysia Stapf, found i
Bernen and in Ceylen (if the Ceylon planr is this species),
LU. siniplea, Western Australia, t!. larertflora, south-west Aus-
tralia and Tasmania,

Uteiewluvia “ratendizaka™’: Ji the Sydney Herbarium there is
a single sheet bearing scanty marerial of a species with long
scapes (60 ent. or more}, beanng long (4-5 cm.) tigulate or same-
what spathniate leaves and anchoring Hhres, No traps or other
substratuin had been eoiecied Gne mature fiower anc one
young Hower allowed an accurate deseription. Calyx: upper
lobe broadly ovate, almost orbieulate, obtuse: lower Jobe similar
but deeply emargiuate; corolla’ upper lip, contracted above the
hase then spreading uitu a cordate upper part, the opper limb being
eniarginate; lower lip: spreading, ca. 2 em. broad, the sides form-
ing an angle of ca. 100-110 degrees with each other (much less
than in U, volubdis, for which it might be mistaken, particularly as
it grows in the same region), the lower edge forming the segment
of a circle, slightly crenalate. Spuc shori and very obtuge. The
colour is pink ar purplish. The scapes of the specinien have
hasiolure scales and show no tendency to twist into spirals, so
thal itis prohably not a clinshing plant. The Inbel reads -az
follows: “R. Brown, Iter Australiense, 1602.5 / (Presented by
direction of J. J. Bennett, 1876) / Utricularia rolnndifolia / King
George's Sound / Ex Herb. Hort. Bot. Reg. Edin.” The naine
and locality are written by a hand other than Brown's. ‘Vhere is
no “retundijotue’ recorded jor Australia, at all events, and the
name is quite inappropriate. Tt would be appreciated if collectors
in the region where Brown did his first collecting in Australia
would look for this plant. The accompanying Agures show the
known characters of the plant (figs, 1 and 2),

ERRATA, NATURALIST, JANUARY, 1937
Corrections, Naiwvahsi, Jan, 1937, pape 147- Beneath the caption. for
“patim" read “portion” Lourth paragraph: for “Arvnttalyenit” read
“Arum italic” Page [48 sixth paragraph: for “debixing” read
“dehiscing.”

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VOL. LUT February, 1937

Plate XV

Feb. ' : ir
1937 Coteman, Pollination of Arum italicusm 167

POLLINATION IN AUSTRALIA OF THE VEINED-
LEAF CUCKOW)-PINT, AROUM ITALIcoalr

By enirit Corea an

The remarkable method of pollimation in the Mottled-leaf
Cuckoo-pint CAlriat macitlatum) has often been described. That
of the Veined-leaf Cuckoo-pint (ei, ita tem) is even more

Letts fran aflicwa, showing clubbed spadix. Right: Fruits (green), which
later become scarlet. Clubbed spadix withered.

interesting. Under cultivation, plants of this species are more
robust, their florets proportionately larger, so that pollination may
be followed without the use of a lens, though one is useful in
revealing the structure and the opening of the florets.

It is a handsome plant with attractive arrow-shaped (hastate)
leaves, which are veined with white, not mottled as in cf. mtacu-
latin. The lobes of the leaf are longer and tore spreading, The

168 Coteman, Pollination of Arum italicum SA ren

clubbed spadix is yellow, not purple or pink, as in the smaller
species. The inflorescence consists of a fleshy spike (spadix)
on the lower part of which are many rows of closely packed,
sessile, male and female florets.

At the base of the spadix are six irregular rows of fertile
female florets without styles, which are no more than vase-shaped
carpels, each one bearing at its apex a much divided, transparent
stigma. Later, from compression, the carpels become squat and
obscurely pentagonal in shape. Above them are two rows of
infertile female florets with styles. Then follow five or six rows

Micro-photo, by O. H. Coulaon.

“Moth” midgets (Psychoda), which pollinate Arun itaheum
(enlarged).

of fertile male florets, stamens without filaments merely, their
bright yellow anthers dehiscing by lateral slits. Above these are
three rows of iniertile, tatled florets, probably abortive stamens,
though opinion on this point 1s divided. These I shall term
“bristles.” All the florets are naked. Thus the plant wastes no
energy in producing unnecessary protective parts or signals. Petals
and sepals are not needed either for protection or attraction, while
the conspicuous yellow club and an unpleasant odour signal the
pollinating agents.

As male and female florets mature at different periods, outside

_ COLEMAN, Pollination of Artene ttalicum 159

agency is essential for their pollination. The florets are markedly
protogynous, the females maturing from one to three days earlier
than the male florets. Hot weather appears to hasten development
of the stamens, when the difference is less marked. The fleshy
spadix is enveloped in a green, lesf-ltke bract (the spathe} which
is convoluted, and constricted at a point oppasite the “bristles,”
forming a closed cylinder below.

When the female florets mature a faint, foetid odour is apparent
—a powerful attraction to hundreds of small moth-lke flies
(Psychoda). These find an easy passage mfo the cylinder, but to
return is another matter, the rig of “bristles” acting on the old
curved-teeth rat-trap principle, to the confusion ot the small
visitors, Jn their quest for freedom the baffled captives wander
over the female florets at the base of the eylinder, The stigmas
of these florets are receptive and readily aceept any pollen brought
by the fies from a spadix on which male florets are mature.

Ajiter pollination the silvery stigmas wither and become brewn,
a drop of nectar now showing in each brown centre. Alb this
time the anthers above liave beer tightly closed. In fram twenty-
four to seventy-two hours they dehisce by lateral slits, shedding
their pollen on the hosts of livmg and dead captives below—pollen
which is impotent on the now non-receptive stigmas. It will be
noted that, wath dehiscence of the anthers the barner of “bristles”
has withered, and contracted towards the floral axis, leaving 2
passage between them and the constricted portion of the spathe.
Thus any living Aies may now depart, carrying with them pale,
golden dust, from the male florets above, with which they will
pollinate receptive female Aorets on a younger spadix.

The fact that thelr withering coincides with dehiscence of the
anthers suggests that these “bristles may be regarded as infertile
male florets, the “ails” representing filaments. Signs of effective
pollination are soon apparent. The ovaries swell and become
green, The spathe droops, and the club, no Jonger needed as a
signal. withers and becomes brown, Effective fertilisation is seen
in hosts of seedling plants which spring up wherever there are
fallen fruits. .

All the insects that visit ny plants belong to the genus Psychoda,
They are exquisite, moth-like flies, whose iridescent wings are
very large in proportion to their small hodies. On warm days they
flock to the spathes in hundreds. The ‘cylinder’ may be half
filled with flies. Many die before dehiscence of the anthers above,
and the consequent withering of the ring of ‘bristles’ to allow
their escape, An adequate number survive, to ensure the poallina-
tion of female florets in another spathe.

The flies are most numerous at about 1! am. when the tempera-
ture of the spadix is probably higher, and the attracting odour
more powerlyl Expenments in this direction have shown that

170 ConemMAaN, Pollination of Arwiun taltcean ue iri

in several Arume the teuperature at certain periods may be higher,
by some 5 deg. Fah. than the surrounding air. The pollen grains
have only a very slightly adhesive exine and are well adapted to
dusting imsect-bodies rather than to carriage in masses, The
efficiency, of the small pollinators is evident in the hosts of red
fruits and, ultimately, the seedlings that appear.

lt must be admitted that, in a
garden, the Cuckoo-pint is a great
monopolist, With a rapid vege-
tative increase, it is not dependent
upon seed for reproduction. 1 have
counted twenty-five small tubers
(twenty - five potential plants)
ton one parent tuber! The effec-
tive pollinary device doubtless
serves two important purposes: to
carry on the species should the
parent stock perish, and to safe-
guard vounp plants from any re-
cessive defects which may be latent
ivi the parent stock.

Vhe friaits are said to he harm-
ful, bur they are eaten -by birds
without ill effect, The TBlack-
bird and the British Song-Thrush
strip them from many a spadix
in my gatden, J have seen an
Oriole feed them, whole, to an
importunate baby—ten fruits im
succession, My sudden movement
sent the mother to cover, The
baby uttered a few imperions calls,
but, finding ‘that they did hot
bring his mama, the big bully

Key to florets on spadix. happed down and fed himself!

Wattle-birds evidently appreciate

the “pulp” which surrounds the seeds. T have seen them puneture

and dislodye inany fritits. Doultless they carry many of them
away to exploit at leisure. The sceds are thus widely dispersed,

Caution should be exercised where there are children, There is
certainly an acrid juice in the stems of the Veined-leaf Cuckoo-pint
which leaves a stinging sensation in one’s fingers.

T am indebted ta Mr. P. R. St. John, of the Botanic Gardens,
and to Mr. J. Clark, of the National Museum, for the names of
plant and insects. Both are always generous in giving such
assistarice.

Feb.
1137

Gasriet, - Peculiar Bivalve Shell 171
Mr, Clark tells me that the Psychoda are not named in the
Museum collection, and that, at present, there is no literattute on
the Australian species. Very little is known about them, though
they are sometimes abundant in moist places. Mr, ©. H. Coulson
kindly photographed the insects.
KEY TO PLATE XV

Pollination of Arian ttalicnm in three stages :

A.—A spadix, with spathe cut away, showing (from the base upward)
mature female florets, each with a silvery, receptive stigma at its apex;
a few infertile female florets with styles; immature tale florets; down-
pointing, tailed florets forming the “trap.”

B—Female florets have been pollinated, stigmas withered and brown,
ovaries swelling; male flurets still immature. Many insects in the

“cylinder,”

C.—Anthers of male florets haye shed their pollen; “bristles” have
withered and ne longer block entrance to cylinder. Liying flies have
escaped carrying pollen on their bodies. Many dead flies at hase of spadix.

KEY TO ILLUSTRATION ON PAGE 170

Key to florets on each spadix:

T—Infertile florets, probabty male.
U1—Male florets (mature) with anthers dehiscing by lateral slits.
{1],—Infertile female florets with styles,
1V—lemale florets (carpels) with much divided stigma at apex,

[Note-—This paper should have appeared before the one by Mrs. Coleman
published in last month’s issue, in which reference is made to Aria italicnin.
The two papers were teceived together and inadvertently that on the Calla
Lily was sent to the printers first—Eoprror.]

HUMPHREYIA STRANGE! A, ADAMS; A PECULIAR
BIVALVE SHELL

By Crar.es J. GABRIEL

At a recent meeting of the Club reference was made to an
interesting Vietorian mollusk, Miuaphreyia strange, which is not
infrequently met with on our shores and in Tasmania, New South
Wales and South Australia. It was described in 1852 in the
Proceedings af the Zoological Socicty of London. One often hears
it referred to as a “Tube Shell,” the animal in reality attaching
itself when voung by the ventral edges of the shell, and during
its progress to the adult stage extending the valves behind inta
a tube, the tube berg attached by its base to a shell or stone and
sometimes showing much distortion in growth.

Dredging excursions by the writer in Western Port have from
lime to time yielded very excellent specimens of Ffimiphreyia in
living condition, some of which may be seen in the National
Museum, Melbourne. During one of these expeditions, in 1905,
at a depth of four fathoms on a stony bottom between Phillip
and French Island, the writer took a juvenile form with the

172 Gana. 4 Peculiar Bivalve Shell Maer

animal. For examination and comparison this unique specimen
was placed in the hands of the late Mr. E. A. Smith, Conchologist
at the British Musuem, who found the state of preservation was
not sufficiently good for minute study; but in the Proceedings of
the Malacological Socwty of London (March, 1910) he mace
some very interesting observations, as follow:

Humphreyia stranye:, Young (highly magnified), after E. A. Smith.
Right: Adult.

“Shell very small, 5 mm. long, 4 high, consisting only of two flattish
valves which are placed over the dorsal end of the ovate-globose body of
the animal, covering only a limited portion of it, and diverging at the
umbones at about a right angle. They appear to be closely attached to
the surface, and exhibit, within, faint anterior to posterior adductor scars,
Externally the valves are covered with a thin, pale, olivaceous periostracum,
which is more apparent towards the outer margin than at the umbones,
The surface exhibits fine yet quite distinct lines of growth, radiating series
of minute granulations towards the umhones, and faint traces of radiating
sculpture upon the rest of the valves. The hinge is edentate, and consists
merely of a ligament attached just below the extreme margin of the valves
posterior to the umbones. Interior of the valves white, almost silvery,
concentrically wrinkled here and there. The body of the animal is enclased
in a sack-like mantle, 1s soft, ovate-globose, terminating posteriorly in a
thin whip-like process... . What may be the function of the flagelliform
extension of the body [ cannot offer an opinion upon. Can it possibly be an
anchoring appendage?”

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol, LITL.—No. 11 March 3, 1937 No. 639

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA

The ordinary meeting of the Club was held at the Royal Society's
Ilall on Monday, February 8, 1937, The President, Mr. S. R-
Mitchell, presided, and about 100 members and friends were
present.

LANTERN LECTURE

The subject for the evening was an illustrated Jantern lecture on
rosion,” given by Mr, W. J, Lakeland. of the Forests Com-
mission. A fine series of slides, showing concious that bring
about erosion,.and its results, both in Australia and overseas, was
show2,

The President thanked Mr, Lakeland for his very interesting
and insttuctive address, and stressed the position in America to
illustrate the need for conserving our forest cover. Other members
expressed appreciation of the lecture,

ORCHID DESTRUCTION

With reference to the reported wholesale gathering of orchids at
Anglesea, the Hon. Seerctary reported that the Committee lad
decided ta send a letter to thase concerned, pointing out that archids
were protected, and asking for help in the “Plant Protection Act.”

DEATHS OF MEMBERS

The President referred with deep regret to the death of Mr. J,
Stickland, a Foundation Member, and of Mr. Jarvis, 2 Country
Member. The death of Dr, R, Tillyard was also mentioned, Mem-
bers stood in silence as a mark of respect.

REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS

Reports of excursions were given as iollow: Seaholme, Mr. J. J.
Freame; Mt. Buffalo, Mr. H.C. &. Stewart; Kallista, Mr. L. W.
Cooper for Mr. A, J. Swat and a brief report of the Science
Congress Meeting in Auckland was given by Mr, 5. R. Mitchell
and Mr. A. S. Kenyon.

= * wise ‘ View Nat,
74 Field Naturalists’ Cinb Procredtugs Ba, Lun

GENERAL BUSINESS

Mr. A. S. Kenyon read an extract from a letter from Hermanns-
burg Mission Station, stating that the laying on of water had greatly
benefited the aborigines there. Further contributions te the fund
were necded to pay off indebtedness.

Mr. Charles Barrett suggested that a letter be sent to Mr. R.
Eadie at Healesville, congratulating him on the fourth anniversary
ol “Splash’s” captivity. This was agreed to.

NATURE NOTES

Mr. V. H. Miller recorded the presence of the Pilot Bird at
Mt. Buffalo, and stated that he had observed a Scrub Wren feed-
ing a young Fan-tailed Cuckoo, He also spoke of the vandalism in
the park, and stated he would brmg the matter before the Com-
mittee for consideration.

Mr. F, S, Colliver said that he had been told that a pair of
eagles nested on the ground at Toora,

The meeting then adjourned for the Conversazioqne-

EXHIBITS

Mrs. Fenton Woodburn.—Luminous Fungus found at Black
Rock, and Sea Horses from Port Phillip Bay.

Muss A. Cornish—Sea Urchins (Maretia sp.), known as sea
mouse, with and without spines, from Moriington and Seaford
respectively. _

Mr. H. F. Reeves—Coloured photographs of Australian flora,
and alse a photograph of a Bulga Park Scene.

Miss FE. K. Turner and Mr, T. S, Hart—Plants collected at
Mallacoota during December, 1936, and January, 1937, including
Danelle coerulea, which must now be restored to the list of Vie-
torian plants.

Mr. C. J. Gabriel—Marine shells from Victoria: Cowries,
Linbilia hesitata Iredale, and white variety, and Conus anemone
Lani., aud white variety..

Mr. F. S. Colliver.—Geographical specimens from New Zea-
land, including wind stones from the Clarence Delta, pumice Irom
Mt. Ruapehu, and siite, with plant impressions, from Rotorua.

Mr. S. R. Mitchell—Adzes of greywacko, drill points of jasper
and chalcedony, fakes and scrapers of obsidian, from Waiki Beach,
New Zealand. Model of Maori fire drill, wood and bone.

‘The Committee of the Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria invites members
af kindred societies who may be visiting Melbowyiie to attend the Cluh’s
meetings.

Mar. ‘ . os 7 ©
ee Discowery of Fusulinid Foraminifera 175

ON THE DISCOVERY OF FUSULINID FORAMINIFERA
IN THE UPPER PALAEOZOIC OF NORTH-WEST AUS-
TRALIA: WITH A NOTE ON A NEW BIVALVE

By Frenic. CHAPMAN, A.L.$., LOW. F.R.M-S., arid WaLtEx J, Pane,
F.R.D4,3.
What are the Musutinids ?

The Fysilinas, as a group of more or less spind$e-shaped Fora-
minifera, were fiest brought under notice in 1829 by Gorthelf
Fischer (1771-1853), who was born at Waldheim, in Saxony, and
hecame Professor of Natural History in 1804 in the University of
Moscow, Fischer de Waldhein, ws he is generally called, was the
first worker to use the term “palaeonralogy” as applied to the
study of fossils, although it appears to have been employer at
about the same time (1834) bv de Blainvilic.

Fischer de Waldheim, in his studies, in 1829, of the Upper
Carboniferous or Mountain Limesraie of Miatchhuva, tear Mus-
caw, and from which the older burldings of that <ity have been
built, found myriads of small foraminifera] shells making up the
bulle of these Russian limestones, fram which, as the blocks were
broken, the little Musutina culvadrica dropped out like rice grains.
So important a part, in fact, do lite Pusulinas play in the formation
of these Mountain Limestones, tliat they are comparable to the
Nummulites which fonn a large portion of the Eocene limestones
of Southern Europe, Egypt and India; the latter are, however, of
much younger age, occurring in the Lower Tertiary.

For a long tine these Palaeozoic Fusulinas were regarded as
belonging ta one gems until, in 1877, Prof, Valerizn von Maller
separated other récognizable forms, giving them new generic
names, #5 Schougerime and Fusulinella, Since that time other
genera have been proposed, increasing their number to mneteen,

As to the age of the jusulinids, they all occur within a fairly
lintited geological range of time, namely, Lower Pennsylvanian
to Upper Permian in America; wiiist in Europe (the Mediter-
ranean region) Pnsulina is found at the base of the Coal Measures
(Upper Carboniferous), and Ferbeckinu and Schwagerine in the
Lower Permian (Artinskian} of Palermo, Sicily. In Asia nume-
rous genera are recorded from the Upper Carboniferous to the
| Upper Permian, of India, China, Sumatra and Japan,

rine fusulinids are therefore good zone fossils, and as such, and
from the faet that they are often associated with petroliferous rocks,
as in the oil coantry of Russia and Texas, are very tinportane front
an economic outloolc.

Australian Occurrence

The present discovet'y is primarily due to both Dr Arthur Wade,
ARCS. F.G.5., and his geological party working for the Freney

174 Miscavery of Pusutond Foraminifera Yite hey

Kintberley Oi! Company, and to Miss K. L. Prendergast, m,sc,,
of the University of Western Australia, who also recogmzcd the
relationship of the fossils to the fusulimds. To Miss Prendergast
and to Dr. Wade we are indebted for the opportunity of examining
these mock speciniens and fossi} remains in detail.

Samples trom two localities have been forwarded to us by Miss
Prendergast. They are us follows:

"B 131 (samples wrongly numbered, loc, correct), Six milés
north-west wl North-West Hill, Kiyberley.”

“B 146, Fossils from the calcareous, ferruginous stone scat-
tered on the surface, at south-west corner of the North-cast Strue-
ture at Bell's Ridge, Kimberley.”

In a letter recerved from Dr. Wade (to FC.) on 30/11/36 he
states that “This material is from the highest beds wf the Upper
Ferruginous Series, which T have put down as of Upper Pernin
Age, une ig just below the fresh-water beds of the Erskine Series."

Mucroscapic Description of the Rock

A reddish to dark-brown ferruginous breecta, with patches of
cream-coloured irigmerts on the fractured surface, Some of these
lighter fragments show numerous small nacreous bivalved shells,
described below as a new specific Lype of a genus not previously
included in the Australian fussil fauna, namely, Carhomecola MeCov,
Corbontcola, and its allied genus Anthracoma, are used for zoning’
the Coal Measures (Upper Carboniferous) in North Stattordshire
and South Wales, The present Permian examples may be regarded
as micromorphs ar survivals of the Carboniferous fauna elsewhere
and show a strong resemblance to Carbontcala similis { brawn)

The breeciated matrix in which. these bivalves ave enclosed may
have been derived from a slightly older rock, probably of lacustrine
or brackish water origin, as indicated hy (he genus to which these
abundant litthe shells are teterred. Nu other iossils, exvupting a
small bivalve resembling Leda sp., were seen in association in
these breeciated fragments containing the Cerboaicola, The latrer
were somewhat crushed, in most cases, before their inclusion in
the sediment, ut are very abundant and an places closely packed
together.

The fusulinids in this rack, and which seem to be indigenous,
are here referred to the genera Verbecksnw and Neoschwagerina,
They are represented by only a few fragments of the testa, im a
poor state of preservation, Two of these were counterparts of a
fractured surtace of one test (ane of these since Iogt in investi-
gating ite structure), which shows a cavity indicating a large inihal
chamber or proloculus and the succession of whorls surrounding
the axi¢ ol the slicll. The remainder, referred to Verbrcelnne, are
fairly numerous in fragments, these being now almost or entirely

Mar, - a <
1937 Thscovery of Fosutinid Rorantintlere WF

ronverted into claysione, with only vestiges here and there of the
original shell-wall. :
Micraseopie Deseription of the Ruck

in thitt Section this irotistane rack is seen to contaiiy aceasional
quartz-grains, partially altered shell-fragments, both of brachio-
pods and bivalves, the lateer chichy Cerbonicola, und fragments
af polyzoa, Other remains present shaw strip-shaped and curved
fragments with a comb-like ornament on one side and which may
possibly haye a relationship to tusulinid organisms; also a few
donbthal radiolarian tests, ostrucod valve-Erayments and replace-
ments of rotaliform foraminifera. The rock-crushings yielded a
doubtful specimen of the ioramintier, Reduaaty.

Deseription af the Pussutinids

Class FORAMINIFERA. Family FUSULINIDAE,
Sub-family Verbeekininae. Genus Verbeekina Staff, 1909.
VERBEEKINA sp. Plate XVI, figs. ? 3, 4, 5.

“Che shell is ovaid and with approximate diameters of 8:5 x 10
min. It consists of tmmerous volutions, up to 16, The first three
whorls each ni¢asuire about 0-34 min. in hefght, the later coiling is
less regulac and the whorls generally lower. ‘The proloculus has
not been seen, but from the eviderice obtained in making the sec.
fions, it 3 sirrall, The wall is thin, consisting of a tectum and
keriotheca, and measuring wy te 0-05 mm. in thickness. Number
of chambers ta the whorl doubriul on account of the preservation
ot the shell, only an occasional septum being visible, The septa ace
Tlane. No parachomata are visthle in the axial sections,

The present species is represented by four fragments, all [rom
Sample B 131, and it has, theretere, not been practicable to attempt
more than a generic determination, The genus Verheckina is
known only from che Perniian of the Orient

Tn fig, 3 we illustrate a fragment of what might appear to be a
fusulinid genus belongitig ta the Subfamily Neoselawagerininire,
The wall-structure is similar to that of the form described above,
except that septula scent to be present. These structures we regard,
however, sts of indrgunic agin and merely due to the diffcrential
staming of the material in filling the chambers, That they are not
septula seems to be definitely determined by the following: (a)
Their irregular shape, placing and length, all of which are unlike
anything known inthe Neaschwagerininae ; (by some of them divide
and athers anastomosc; (c¢) the majority exrend from the root to
the floor of the chamber, but this is not the result ot the pendant sep-
tula meeting the parachomate, 2s no stricture corresponding to
the latter is present. Ifor these reasons it ts considered that the
genus represented is Merbecleug, with undoubted specimens of
which it is associated.

178 Discovery of Fusulinid Forantiniferu bin fan

Sub-family Neoschwagerininae. Genus NeoschWagerina
Yabe, 1903,
NEOSCHWAGERINA sp. Plate XVI, figs. |, 2-

This genus is represented by a fragmentary specinic), ermbedded
im matrix, from Sample 8 146. The watural fracture reveals an
axial section of the test, which hag a longee diameter of 13-5 mn.
The proloculus is ovoid and large, its lesser ciameter beng 0:6
mm. ; owing to the imperfect preservation of the specimen the
larger diameter is uncertain. There are approximately 25 whorls,
the first three of which are comparatively low, measuring each
about 0-24 mm. in height. These are followed by six closely-
coiled whorls, each with a height approximating 013 mm. The
remaining whorls inctease in height gradually, until a height of
0-6 mm. is reached. The chambers are very numerous, numbering
about 80 in the ? 20th whorl, and are then 0-4 mm. in length. The
septa are plane and are separated by short, fairly thick septula,
with apparently an axial septulum alternatmg with each septum,
The wall is thick, measuring 0-1 mm. in thickness, and consists
ot a tectum and keriotheca.

In its very large proloculus, the present species resembles NV.
megesphaerica Deprat, which occurs with Verbeekina in the upper
part of the Middle Permian of Tonkin. Deprat’s species differs,
however, in haying only Qvelve whorls, which regularly increase
in height as added.

Description of the Bivalye

Class PELECYPODA. Family CARDINIIDAE,
Genus Carbonicola McCoy.
CARBONICOLA MINUTISSIMA sp. nov. Plate XVJ, fig, 6

Description of Holotype: .

Shell small for the genus; ovate, oblique, umbo moderately
inflated; rounded anteriorly, ventral edge rather strengly convex ;
umbonal ridge developed, especially towards the post-ventral angle.
Surface polished, nacreous, smooth near umbones, with concentric
ridges more or less rourided, 6 in type.

Length, 2-7 mm.; height, wmba ta mid-ventral, 2 mm, ; thickness
of valves on the umbo, -8 mm.

Holotype, from loc, B 146, Bell’s Ridge, Kimberley, Western
Australja (coll by Dr. A. Wade}.

; General Description of Species
The great vanation of this species, in characters other than size,
78 seen in the following :
Umibones often more depressed than in the type specimen.
Concentric rogae up to ine, with more, or less numerous finer
(intermediate) concentric lines.

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VOL, LID March, 1937

Plate XVI

Phoeta, F.C,

Neoschwagerina, Verdeekina and Carbonicola from the Permian.
Kimberley, W.A.

Mar : ' . -
laa Discovery af Fronhiwid Foraninifera 179

Interior of valves show cardinal area widely curved, with blunt

cardinal tooth and posterior lateral.

In thin section a nacreous layer, both internal and external-

Thickness of shell averaging 1 mm. at the thickest part,

These tiny bivalves rnay be at once distinguished fron the some-
what similar phyllopeds, Esiferia, by having a cistinetly shelly and
layered test, rather than 2 corneous one, by the character of the
hingé-line, and by the irregular nature of the concentric lines of
growth,

The above species is commonest at the type locality, B 146, but
is also, and more sparingly, met with at loc. B 131,

EXPLANATION OF PLATE
Tig, t—Neoschwangering sp. Apptoxiviately saggital section, in matrex.

Loc, B 146, * Jd,

= 4 geinpareriva 5p, Part of same section, More highly magnified,
x 124,

a 3? Verbechina sp. Part of axial section. Loc, BIS, * 12,

~ 4—Perbeekina sp. Obliquely sagittal section of another specimen.
Loc, BIS. & circ. 14.

. S—Perbcehina sp. A thin section, excentric, Lac. B13]. * 7.

» G—Carbenicold mtiutisshea sp. nov. Right valve. Holotype Loe.
Ri46, x 18.

» @—Thin section of the matrix of B 146, showing sections of shells of
Carbonirola and fragments of > fusulinids, det. % 7.

SIZE OF AUSTRALIAN PYTHONS

Scicutifie recards of the North Queensland Python (Python
omethystinus) aye desirable. 1t was reported tn a London journal
recently, that on Cape York Peninsula pythons 30 feet in length
could be seen; while same bushmen say that-specimens measuring
inore than 20 feet are not rare in the Tully and other districts.
KEanghorn (The Snakes of Anstraiia) gives 21 feet as the lint for
this snake; but a specimen 22 feet long was lalled on Hinchinbrook
Island, where the jungle is said to harbour many “carpet” snakes,
as they are called, of fearsome size, A live specimen, captured near
Cairns, measured only J& feet, but "20-footers” are met with in
the district occasionally.

THE ELBOW ORCHID

Since its discovery at Cravensyille im north-east Victoria (A, B. Braine,
1917), the Elbow Orchid, Spiewlea Huntiana (Foy-M.) Schltr, has been
found in a number of districts, but chicAy in the north-east and east of the
State (see Fic, Not, LIT, March, 1936, p. 190). While on holiday in the
Marysville district during Mebruary this year [ found this orchid to be well
distributed throughout the hills, one specimen being collected m the town-
ship itscl?. Good examples 20 cm. in height, with four fowers, were found
on Mt, Gordon, along the Talbot Drive and the Cumbertand Road, etc, The
majority of the specimens had suffered somewhat, due to grazing—probably
wallabies were responsible.

W. H. Nicttotes,

180 Nechotrs, 4 Botanical Prodlene wane

A BOTANICAL PROBLEM: AN [IMPERFECT ORCHID
AND ALLIED FORMS

By W, H. Nicuotts

Recently I received trom Mr. A J. Swaby specimens of Caleana
winor R.Br. and of an allied form, designated by the sender as
“freak forms” of Robert Brown's plant. Examination proved the
latter to be exceptional specimens of Mueller’s C. Sylitvarriimna
rare orchid originally found in the vicinity of Mt, Zero (Sullivan,
1882), and in the Wonderland Range (D'’Alton, 1924 and 1926),
remote parts of the Serra Range, some 40 niles east of the new
habitat.

Mr. Swaby writes: “The specimens were collected on the south-
west slopes near the summit of Mt, Byron, Black Range (south-
west Victoria), by Messrs. Harold Smith, Gordon Fraser and
inysell. My two friends went to considerable expense and incon-
vertience to reach the very difficult country where the plants grow,
which is rather out of the way of most collectors. We found the
specimens in depressions and soaks, always in mossy places; the
tubers on the rocks. The ‘freaks! were growing in association
with C. nner and species of other genera.”

Mr, Swaby mentions also the vagueness of the reproductive
organs in the “freak” flowers “. ., the end of the column never
could form an anther, and the labellum has no inclination ta move.”

Additional specimens of C, Sul/ivanit (excellent ones also) were
forwarded to the writer by Miss Lorna Banfield, of Ararat, who
collected in the Moyston West district, near Mt. William
(10/1/37), The specitnens were 16-20 om, high, and bore as inany
as cight flowers, These details are of some interest, because the
members of this curious. genus ase all normally few-flowered (I
am not including here C. Sullfvanw because the majonty of the
specimens teceived had comparatively many flowers), possessing,
as they do, usually one to four blooms; rarely does the number
exceed five, The writer has seen but one specimen of C, major
R.Br. with six flowers, and Mueller records a solitary Tasmanian
specimen with eight, but it js true that C. mimor has not been
recorded with more than six; while €, morita Ldl., a Westralian
form, and €. Nudlingit: Nich. (the latter is another instunce of pre-
sumied degeneracy) are few-flowered.

There appears to be little justification for regarding the plants
af C. Sulivantt as mere “freaks."" The fact of possessing a habit
rather more vigorous than that of C. aner, and producmg more
flowers, despite some apparent degree of degeneracy, suggests a
longer association with the locality. To my mind the “freak” theory
is cisproved—a study of the dissected flowers is interesting, The
acenmpanying line drawings, from fresh material, will give a com-
parative idea of the salient characteristics of all the known species,

ws Nicuotts, 4 Botanical Problem 181

thus enabling any reader the more readily to reach his own con-
clusions. \

The individual flowers of C. miior show practically no variation,
except in the unimportant Jabella-glands ; the same must be writ-
ten in regard to those of C. Sudéieait, of which there were approxi
mately 30 individual blooms. The conclusion arrived at was C.
Sullivan is a valid form, but perhaps should be regarded as a
long-surviving—now uni-sexual—representative of the genus—a
transitory form, perhaps; onee abundant, but now existing im scant
numbers—actual and comparative—in isolated and few places;
subject to a less severe competition than other possibly extinct
types. C. Sullivan, following further degeneration of the stigma,
ix also doomed to extinction.

I cannot trace priur records of antherless orclnds; probably C.
Sullfvand and C, Nublugi are unique in this respect. The simply-
constructed labellum of C. Suditeantl constitutes—in the absence
of pollen sacs—a useless appendage. It is not irritable as in all other
recorded species, but still retains some slight degree of sensitive-
ness, as a relic of the past. The stigma, from a bud just about to
expand, was critically examined. Tt was well-formed, with a slight
trace of seerction, which appeared to increase in volume when the
flower expanded fully. The labella-appendage was the first seg-
ment to relax fully. In it there appeared to be little life: but when
some specitnens were being photographed later, several labella
slowly closed,* and could not be induced to open again, Sonte time
afterwards, however, they were again observed in their former
position.

The stigmas in the mature blooms of C. Sullivanit are, more or
Jess, misshapen by the formation of irregular granulations, which
inay be the result of insect action—possibly the agent concerned
in the pollmation. A strong lens brought to light truces of what
were presumed to be pollen grains immersed in the now dry secre-
tion around the margins of the immediate centre of the dise-like
stigmatic-plate.

These facts, and the evidence in the turgid, hard ovaries, sug-
gest, not a useless sterile plant, but a member of an association,
still performing its work and thus exercising an important influ-
ence in nature. C. minor is certainly a diminutive counterpart of
C. major, differing mainty in the presence of marked granulations
on the labella-lamina—a character of note in C. Suifivant!, but to
a lesser degree. Is it reasonable to suggest the association of C.
major and C, Sullivanti, producing as progeny C. vitnor? These
two forms are not found in close association, lut that matters Tittle.
C. major and C. utiner are both fairly plentiful throughout the

*The labellum in C. Suilivanié does not, owing to its character, close effec-
tively.

182 Nicnotts, A Botanical Problem orn

Caleana species.

he Nicnorts, 4 Hotanical Problen Wit

disticts where C. Stediivam?t has. been found, but C. wrayer is found
chiefly on the lower levels.

The presence of C. Nublingit in close association with C, nedwar
and C. major in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales further
complicates the problem, Ti we shave to think of C, Suifivaitt asa
freak form of C. tmnor, what ia the position in relation to C
Nublingw? There are, in the flawee parts of Mueller's species (as
in all the others), some characters which may be termed character-
istic anes (see figures). And who has collected speciniens of €,
minor with as many as eight flowers ?—ithe maximum number so
far recorded for any of the species.

Notes py A. J. Swapy

Mr. Nicholls has kindly allowed me to read his MS, The inter-
esting views put torward, backed by his wide knowleilge of archicls
and the genus Coleune in particular, nvsc be piven due considera-
tion, Further, he had a Jacge nunjber of spectinens under ohserva-
tion for sume time. Nevertheless, it may be of some imterest to
have the reasons for my very textalive speculation. While the
facts are youched for, Fo must admit that examination was too
cursory for my liking, 1 was in haste te get the specimens away
while tresh. Continuous observation in the field was inrpossihle.
The orchids were incidental amongst a great mass of malerjal from
a locality rarely traversed, and very difficule of access.

I. None of the growing specimens 1 saw had any possibility of
anything capable of containing pollinia, They exhibited varying
degrees of abortive attempt. Some had merely a red, usdulate,
petatod laming, comparable to petals towards the centre of a double
rose, or thase seen in Icelayel poppies Sate in the svasen, Others
had developed rough patches, deeper in colour, or even saised
areas with paired pits. Parallel malformations are anite common
in warden flowers where the tendency (o make a showy flower,
encouraged hy selection, lias resulted tn the sacrifice of the male
organs. It is as if the fluwer had reasoned thus: “I faust have
seeds and preter eross-pollination, I shall set myself to. attract
the pollen-bearers and Jet others loole after themselves." That, as
Mr, Nicholls points oul from avother angle, must result in ractal
suicide. The type specimen of Piy.M. at the National Herbarium,
collected by Sullivan, and specimens collected later hy, JD’ Alton, are
also without anthers and apparently could never have had them,

2, No male plants were discovered. The seareh on the second
visit was made thoroughly by five cbservers, who devoted the
greater part.of the day to it. It is extremely improbable that any
orehid capalile of supplying pollen was withia reasonable distance
except C. wuinar,

3, The plant at Mount Byron is constanHy assuciated with
C. iniior, of which there were scores, Wegetative features are
exactly similar, except where mentioned by Mr. Nicholls.

‘ ; a Vie Wat.
84 Nicuoiis, 4 Botanteal Problene Valfat,

4+. In C. Sulftvanes, ihe labellum varied very greatly. The sim
lest was merely a lincar-lanveolate, acute petal without difleren-
liated claw; there was no immediate response to towel; and bur
wine papillus, with a few dots surrounding it, was present. At the
other extremu, a deep pouch, bulyrng inword, uuite as deep as
wide, was oovered with papill; more prowudient taward the centre
of che bulge: the acute ty was very short; and the claw was more
in evidence. Response to touch, if any, was very slow, I saw none
which had bent down naturally, Between these extremes were
several intermediates, sometimes different on the ane poist. All,
however, were a long way from the form of C. anor.

(Apart fron the question of freak or species, this gradation is
very interesting as an indication of the probable history of the
evolution of Crleana. The bifid “bill” of the duck is the inwardly
projecting ceutre of the pouch; the backward point of the head is
the tip o£ the petal; and possibly the “ears” are the widest part of
the Janina.)

5. The stigma kas a distinct though short stalk or style, To
me, this indicates forgetfulness of “what is expected in the family.”
The degentracy anieunts to a cleparture froni one characteristic
of ar orchid. The rostellum, as might be expected with no anthers,
jis a mere yudiment (or vestige}. To hint that Fv, MM. would set up
w Species on a iualiormed flower may be heresy; hut the suggestion
has been at least thought-provoking, Doubtless, Miss Barfield, Mr,
Siith and Mr. Fraser will be fmind at dawn, like shooters on
“opening day,” in dheir respective hunting grounds, on New Year's
Day. 1938. For them, and such orhers as may be in the Caleare
country, C-wuuld suggest the follawing :

(a) Leave the plants intact as dar as pogsible and mark the C. Sylixowet
by a eHloured celluloid indicator for future observation from year to
year.

tb} Are the poucied labellum, narrow column, stalked stigma, and acuie
lateral petale beside the column ever associated with anthers capable
al Tuaerianing ?

{ec} Té ot, 3s there any evidence of Mowers with only anthers: and unde-
veloped stigma and ovary?

(d} Ave there forms of Jabellum between the deep cop of C. Sullivantt
and the ducl’s head of ©, minar?

fo) To there any difference in soil, depth of soil, moisture, or aspect?

(1) What insect is attracted; where does it alight; i: it entangled aor a
shart rime on the sticky papillij is it entrapped within the flower by
the flexed labellun ar only caused to make 4 frantic exit from narrow
dyuarters > js it quietly Jowered while 1t attertion is on the red papilli
4u brush agaist the stigma? The leisurely movenrent in C. anor
suggests the Jact. [Tn my experience the movement is invariably
sharp.—WHN,]| Ry a double movement, the “head” is gently tilted
forward to a sharp angle, and the “neck even more slowly; and
later, hows so that ¢he tip of the head, with the papilh, faces the
stigma.

107 Nicnmis, A Botanical Problem 185

(gz) fs. there any definite relation hetween the modifications of labellum
and column? The reduction of the pouch aud. papilli goes contrary
to the petaloid modifications of the part of the column which should
hear pollen, :

(hy ts. C. Suliivant ever found far from C. minor? |No—W.H.N.]

(i) Us there any variation iw one Jocality of Hower parts of authentic
C. minor? JT found thee very uniform, This somewhat discounts the
“freak” sonjecture, [No—\W.H.N.]

KEY TO PLATE—CALEANA SPECIES
Fig. A. C.-mazar—Colummn from above,

, #. " Labellum from side.

» & tt Labellumt from rear,

need + Pollen masses:

4 JS J Typical specimen.

, F.C. mthor—Columt from above.

a hee ¥ Lahellum from Side,

., H id Glands from Jamina of label),

ah | a Labcllum-lamina from above,

oe J- i Typicat specimen.

a K. C. Sulivaniti—Column. from above,

» L + Glands from taming of lahellun,
» M, iy Labellum from side.

a» ON. ns Labellum: fron: below.

» & * Specimen from Moystoi West.
» PB. C. Nublingn—Colunin from above.

>» Q. i Labellum from side.

ow at ‘ Gland fron) lamina of labelluns.
x 3. Labellumlaniina from above:

» %T. ” Typical specimen.

v» UL C. nigrita—Colunn from side.

Maes x Labetlurn from side,

WS 5 Labellum-lamina from above.

a. pf Typical specimen.
Note: Pigures B, G, M, Q and V show the labella in the same relative

TREE SPARROWS IN VICTORIA

That the Tree Sparrow (Passer moniana) is fairly numerous
around Melbourne is the opinion of several good observers; though
others, notably Mr. Robert Hall, have stated that it prefers to
avoid the town and keeps more or less to open country. Probably
the urban population of Tree Sparrows has increased in recent
years; but still the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) is the
dominant species in the metropolitan area, and much more
numerous than its ally im some localities.

Mr. E. H, Hanks mentions that Tree Sparrows, which are plenti-
ful in Coburg district, in the autumn “flock'’ much more than do
House Sparrows. Mr. George Mack, of the National Musenim,
wit) shown specimens by Mr. Hanks, had not seen the Tree Spar-
tow in Victoria, and the species is not represented in the Museum
collections,

18% John Stickland hy Seat.

JOHN STICKLAND

The death, at an advanced age, of Mr, John Stickland, has
removed another of the pioneers of the Club, he having joined it
in November, 1880, six months after nis inauguration. During all
the lengthy period of his membership he was a regular atlender
at meeting and excursions, and maintained an unflagging interest
in the Club's activities, fulfilling lerms of office, and, by means of
papers and exhibits, deing a full share towards Iprwarding the
study of natural objects, which 1s its specific aim. :

Mr. Stickland’s spectal interest was the study of microscopic
forms of life. Some forly years ago there was a development in
the work of the Club in the direction of investigating the structure
and rejationships of living things, and this necessitated resort to
the microscope both for the study of orgamenis too small for the
unaided eye, and the internal anatoniy of these larger. A immber
of very enthusiastic workers devoted themselves to the collection
of furms of life in which the trend of biological science was stirau-
lanng interest, Our late friend was one who joined in these activi-~
ties and ultimately devoted his attention to the Protozoa—Infusoria
as they were then styled) The sludy and identification of these
Nunute creatures calls for careful manipulation of the microscope,
and much patient observation, and he possessed the qualities neces-
saty in no small degree.

He was one of those whose relief from business affairs needs
to be something entirely disconnected from them, and who do not
find in mere amusement sufficient satisfaction and turn to a fel
of thought requiring intellectual effort, and atfordmg a prospect
ot adding to one’s knowledge of the world around, Such a dispo-
silion evokes respect. Ot the exeursions of the Club John Stick-
Jand's collecting apparatus was abyays at hand, and later, ists of
forms noted were supplied, Evidence of his knowledge of the.
Protozoa is the fact chat from June, 1915, ta June, 1916, togcther
with two other members of the Club, he systematically, by fort-
nightly visits, searched che lake in the Botanic Gardens and gave
a list of fifty-two forms which be identihed. In the Victonan
| Naturatist (Vol. XL, p. 65, and Vol. XLI, p. 84) will be found
an article on ‘'The Aquati¢ Protozoa of the Melbourne District,”
which amply demonstrates his knowledge of the subject, and appli-
cation to it.

He was of a modest and unassuming character and could discuss
a difference of opinion with an eviderit desire ta arrive at a correct
conclusion regardless of preconceived ideas. AJ] those acquainted
with lim, both in the Field Naturahsts’ Clab and the Microscopical
Society, of which latter bay he was also an active member, will
deeply regret the loss of so worthy an associate.

J. Stwenarn.

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VOL, LUI March, 1937

Plate XVII

JouN STICKLAND

Peart Minter, Whe Birds of Monit Buffalo iv

THE BIRDS OF MOUNT RUFFAT.O
By BrancHe E. Mitter

OF the bids that frequent the higher altitudes to the north-east
ot the Sate, we have scant information, This rs all the more sur-
prising when we consider the nuinber of papers on the alpine flora
that have been published in our journal.

On the occasion of the first official visit of the Ficld Naturalists’
Club to Mt, Buffalo, twenty-six species of birds were recorded by
Miss MeHaffie (Jie. Nat., Vol. XX, py. 148-150), The list gives
an accurate idea of the birds that may be seen there to-day, during
the sunwner inonths, the one rarity being tlic Green Leek (Polytelts
hovralsnnd:), which Miss MeHafie mentioned as ‘seen occa-
sionally amongst the stunted eucalypts or near the creeks,”

Twenty-three years Jater, the Buffalo Plateau was visited by
the late Mr, L, L. Hodgson, wlio was at that Hine Tlonorary Secre-
tary of the Club. In a paper which he read, and which was subse-
quently published (ic. Nat.. Vol. XLIV, pp. J88-196), seventeen
species of birds were mentioned, hut of these five only had not been
previously recorded, This brought the list te thirty-one—all sight
olservations, seeing that the use of firearms is not permitted in
our National Parks,

During the recent week-end excursion of the Club to Mt. Buffalo
I was able to add twelve species te ‘the list, but by no incans does
this exhaust the possibilities, Just why the two previous lists did
not in¢lude the games of Familiay and comparatively commion birds
such as the White-naped and White-plumed lloneyeaters, the Little
Wattle Bird, and the White-throated Tree-creeper, is a matter for
tonjecture. No Cuckoo had been recorded for the Park wnti) our
recent visit, when we saw a Whitt-browed Scrub-Wren indus-
triously cudeavouring to supply the necds of a young Fan-tailed
Cuckoo. Seemingly, they also are served, who only sit and call
incessantly | -

An ornithologist of repute has stated that the names of several
of the more common birds fonn the key to the locality m which they
were seen. Mt, Buffalo’s six would be: The Grey Currawong,
‘ligging in the Jawns ia front of the Chalet, and elsewhere; the
Flame Robin, about the rocks in the vicinity of the Gorge—sum-
met visitors these, despite their appearance on the railway posters
depicting alpine sports; the Crimson Rosella, which has discovered
an easy “design for a living” in the Jeed-hoxes at the stables; the
Gang-gang, large companies of these querulous birds; Pardalotes,
calling continuously in the snow gums; and the Yellow-laced
Honeyeater, Yet the two latter species had not previously been
listed. ‘

We have long known that the Lyrebird is quite at home on the
vyanitic heights of the Buffalo, avd has been seen at the picnic

188 Mitten, The Birds of Mount Btiffale MC

ground, atid close to the tennis courts, That the preservice there
of its cammensal, the Pilot Bird. had not been noticed hitherto, is
somewhat surprising. Of restricted range, we are accustomed to
find this small rown bird with its rich, clarion call, in the dense,
dark gullies, vet several members nf pur party both saw and heard
the bird ona flat which was very exposed, although magtly covered
with low vegetation, and watered hy a tiny stream. Knowing that
the Pilot Bird is extremely local, we had no trouble in again seeing
A hearing at least rwo birds at the same spot on the succeeding
uy.

Swifts fiying so high over the Chalet chat only sccasionally could
one be detected with the naked eye was a rather rare sight, at any
rate, for me, and added another species to the list for the Buffalo
Plateau. Some coubt has been expressed as to the possibility of
the Swifts finding food at such a high alutude, Mr, I. E. Wilson,
the President at the Entomological Society of Victoria, does not
doubt that, in fayourable circumstances, insect life may veach a
cosiderable height, and points out that it 1s the height above the
ground thet counts, uot the height above sea-level-

The Official Guide repovted the appearance of Yellow-tailed
Black Cockatoos, which he considered to be very rare visitors. The
late Mr. Hodgson saw a flack “wheeling and arcling above the
Gorge” on one occasion only. They do hot appeur on che first list,
The scarcity of water-birds on Lake Catani is very disappointing.
Earlier in the year a Black Duck was seen with its brood. The
presence of a lane Coot at the farther end where the reeds grow
in the shallow water suggested that the avine population was
greater than appeared to be the case,

Both previous observers record the White-backed Magpie. Miss
McHaffie's note reads: “Not particularly abundant, and did not
observe any of the Black-backed variety,” I feel confident that the
Magpies which we saw Jast year were White-backs, but this year
they undoubtedly were Black-backs. This circumstance is further
evidence that the northery: species, although slightly smaller, is
steadily encroaching on areas formerly inhabited exclusively by
the southern White-backed Magpie, With our knowledge of how
jealously the Magpie guards its territory, even’ driving out its own
offspring when grown, the invasion aud occupation by the northern
Magpie becomes a matter of exceeding interest It seems to point to
a complete reversal of the opinion held by Mathews that, eventually,
the White-back will absorb the Black-back, Furthermore, it affords
us an illustration that it is still possible to male field notes on the
geographical distribution of even such a common bird. How litle
we really know: how much there is sill to learn !

og | Raw, Distrrbytion of Certain Ovchids is?

NOTES ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF CERTAIN
ORCHIDS

By the Rey, H. M. R. Rure, Raymond Terrace, N.S.W,

The title sounds rather “dry” it you say it aloud; nevertheless
the subject of distribution {wherher of orchids or of ofher plants)
is a most fascinating one. You fiud yourself continually asking:
“Why?” aud you never use this little interragative unless you are
interested. In this article I propose to ask “Why?” in regatd to
the range and claracter of the habitat of a umber of our native
orchids; but I do not propose to give the answer. Even if [ could
—which in most of the cases is extremely doubttul—my purpose
in writing is mot to try ta explain the reasous Jor distribution, but
rather fo Suggest to the large and ever-increasing number of orchid
enthusiasts a field of study which has hitherto. been little explored,

There must be many who, like myself, are not satished with
the lare statements that a cerfain orchid occurs, in abundance,
in one locality only; while another, closely allied and-with no im-
mediately obvious superionty of constitution, ts spread over hun-
dreds of thousands of square miles, We waat to know why—and
there niust be a rational answer.

The first species I propose to discuss is one familiar to orchid
folks in evéry State of the Commonwealth except Wester Aus-
tralia: Dipodiwn puuctatum, the Hyacinth Orchid. Now this plant
has ant astonishing range ot habitat, which cannot be satisfactorily
accounted for by saying that its health and vitality are unusually
dependent on jis association with certain mycorrhizal fungi, and
that wherever these exist the orchid will fiourssh. If that be the
whole explanation, itis one which should make all scientific workers
sit up and take notice. For tf the symtbrotic relation between the
mycorrhiza and the orchid gives the latter power to adapt itself to
such extraordinary <ifferences in climate and environment, may
not such power be won for higher organisms than orchids lay
analogums methods? What is id which makes this Dipodmim equally
at home along the shores of D'Entrecasteaux Channel in southern*®
Tasmania, and at Alioa Den, one hundred miles west of Cairns in
tropical North Quecnsland? |} have ¢ollected it myseli in the
former of these localities, and have lately received a raceme of
typical flowers from the latter. I have seen il growmg in sand
within & few fect of salt-water estuanes on the New South Wales
coast, and have gathered it on heavy black soil near Glen Innes
at an altitude of nearty 4,000 feet, on country subject ta winter
snows. What gives it this marvellous adaptability? And what is
the secret of its abundance in comparison with the rarity of the
closely-atlied D, Homultonianwm? The latter is a very similar plant
with similar habits, yet it has only been seen in New South Wales
and southern Queensland. Though rare, itt seems to be capable of

fehes Nat.

1) Repr, Uistribylion of Certain Orekidr Veil BE,

adapting itself tn- varied cunslitions, for it extends farther inne the
dry interior than 2), paetatwm (Coonabarabran, N.5,W.), and has
alsa heen located near Sydney (Epping), and on the high western
slopes of New England, Yet it is never plentiful. When 1 received
specanens fron two Jocalitzes in 1935, I had not seen it for over
cwenly years,

Then take the case of Cynitbidinin canaticulatnim. Here is another
orchid—this time ar epiphyte of sorts--with an amazing range of
habitat. T have qualified the term epiphyte because uur Cymbidiums
are not qpphytesin Lhe same senseat a Dendrobimmaora Sarcochiltes
is an epiphyte. The roots do not grow along the surface of the
bark of the host, but penetrate into decayed hollows, This is pate
uctlarly the case with the species tn question. Its mast southerly
locality fitherto recorded is the Forbes district of New South
Wales. Fron there ip extends right to Cape York, and from Cape
York it contiiues round the Gulf cotuntry and at least as far as
Roebuck Bay in the nor’-west of Western Austrufia. I have not
heared of tt near the egast farther south than the Hunter River, but
inland, a3 indicated above, it has been traced to Forbes, Notth of
the Hunter it seems equally happy on either side of the Dividing
Range, and 1 have seen it at an altitucle of 4,000 feet on Mt.
Kaputar; yei it flaurishes on the dry, wind-swept platns of the
western country. Why tc has not crept dawn to Victoria and South
Australia T cannot understand: it may yet be discovered there, of
conrse. Fucalypts are its luvourite hosts, but I have found jt on
Angophoras, cypress-pines, belahs, and other trees, It is often a
very bulky plant.

In contrast to these, tale the case of Dinvis venosa. At about
§,000 feet on Barrington Tops, 60 miles nurth of Neweastle, rhis
pretty little lilac hued terrestrial oceurs hterally in myriads. No
dehmte record can be obtained of its existence anywhere else.
Similar plateaux to that of Barrington Tope are found elsewhere
int New South Wales and other Slates, but they have been scoured
in vain—se far—for this Diuris, Why? Iv is so alnindant, and at

*reproduces itself so prolifically, on the Barringtons that ane would
expect it to appear in similar sitwations, Examples to this effect
ave yor lacking im that very loeatity. Chilegtorhs Gumi and Ptero-
shylts fatrata haye not been recorded for New South Wales, so jar
as I am awate, between the Koxciusko hightands and those of
Barrington Tops, but both reappear on the latter; and C. Guruint
has now been traced jor 40 miles north-east of Armidale on the
New England platea.

Another curious and intriguing case ts the distribution of Chilo-
yloltts formicilera, So far as Australia is concerned, this species
appears ta Le endemic in New South Wales; roughly speaking,
between the Shoalhaven anc Hunter Rivers. Yet it is found across
the 1,200 miles of the Tasman Sea, in New Zealand

ya Exccarsion ta Motat Buffala 191

Pterostylts rufa was credited hy the older generations af botamsts
with oceurrence in every State uf the Commonwealth This exten-
sive distribution is doubtful, a5 more than one species was for-
merly included in PL rufa, Na such doubt exrsts, however, in the
case of P. curta, of wtriely I have actually handled specimens from
every State. Teas a far ery from the Atherton Tableland in North
Queensland to the south-west of Western Australia, yel such is
the rasge of thrs Greenhood, witich also extends to Tasmania, 2.
nufans has also been reported Jrom Western Australia; it is in all
the other States. but has not been seen far north of Hrisbane; but
itis undoubtedly m New Zealand.

Of much interest is the appearance of comparatively rare species
(located in and desertbed from Limited areas) in Inealities many
hundreds of miles awav from that of the type. It is, of course,
not unlikely that the wide gaps may be narrowed by the discovery
of spreimens tn between, Examples are. Caladvenia Inleluta, a very
anconinal species of South Australia and western Victoria, which
turned up unexpectedly at Bullahdelah, 70 niles north of New-
castle, New South Wales; Thelynertya chasimogama, of the Mi.
Lofty foothills in Sotith Austraha, discovered on the South Mait-
land Coalfields, New South Wales, in 1934; and Lipari habena-
ving, a httle-known tropical Queensland plant, which bas heen
foutid on the north coast of New South Wales.

T trust that these somewhat haphazard joltings may serve to
stimulate attenton to the interesung problems provided by the
distribution,

EXCURSION TQ MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK,
JANUARY 24 TO FEBRUARY J, 1937

Fine and coo) weather prevailed for the third offieand Club excursion to
Mi Buffwio Nulionul Park, and in the limited time available during the
Australia Day week-end (Jan. 29 to Feb. 1) full opportunity. was taleen
by the nine members and friends comprising the party tn visit as many
points of interest on the Plateau as possible. The summer at this altitude
is the equivalent of the sprnug im the lower levels; consequently, there was
no lack of botani¢al specimens to examine, though ibe frst Aush of the
spring blossormmge period was just past. Those in the party visiting the
mountua for ihe frst time expressed surprise at the wealth nf native flora,
iis variety and quality, with the close proximity af many species to the Chalet,

Snow Gums and several other Eucalypts were still ui flower, and this
factor brought under notice some of the honey-eating birds Jrom the lower
level forests. Exceptionally tine specimens of the Grass Trigger-plant and
the Austral Bluebell were met with everywhere, The first outing war
around the Janious Gorge and then on to Reed's Tooker, where typical
alpine flora was found, Sirange te same members of the party were the
Rlotchy Mint-bush (Pratterthere Walter’), an uncommon flower with a
prolonged blassaming perind that appears to be increasing over the Plateau;
the Alpine Boronia; the Helichrysusus; the attractive shrub, Poinaxr ambel-
fata; the Derwent Speedwell; the white Aunzea prdtrorenars , several species
af Srachycome, and other species. The acxt walk, around Lake Catani,
revealed a blaze of colour in the “tundra” flora; such species as the Alpine

192 Becirsion to Moune Hugala ini hy aw

Marsh-marigald ((Calfha astvaloba), Kimeza Mudllevi, Phehaliiun podo-
carprdex, Grewifer alpina, Podolegs longipetata, the Golden Everlasting
(Heltchry nen brarteatwn), particularly jreduse ancl dazzling in rich colar,
late spikes G1 Richew Coqtite, and the Yemed Sunteorchid (7 helymitra venore)
in shades of blue and pink. On this waik Mr WV. 1D. Miller located the
Bogone Leek-orelid (Pravophodtem olpormon RB, Pr. Todiellinnn
Rogera), so far as con be ascertained, uot previously reported from Mt
Ruffalo, Gther species noted as cottinan to the leeality were tlie Potato
Orchid (Gasteadia sesamoides) : and surely the most beautiul of all Vie
tocian orchids, the Alpine Leek-orelid (Prozephathan Suttowir), which
thrives in the-open boggy spaces at the head of ibe'lake.

Vhe next day a atrall was taker in the direction of Billson’s Lookout atid
the Maunted Gorge, where attention was divided between the superb mon-
tain vistas acd further examples of hirh altimde botany. Wore was voted
the Tiny Greenhood (Pterastylis parwifera), and, after a protracted search,
Ulree plants of the dimmutive rare Elbow Orchid (Spicwlea. Mvntiana),
déscovernd last year for the first time near the same vicinity, The sume
afternoon we mace the seven miles molur trip tu the Horn, the highest point
on the Piateau, 5,045 feet above sea-level. Here the botanical aiterest was
even itare SlimmlaGng. ‘The flora illustrated the syaumer in which plaints
survived the baltle with extreme alpie conditions im au exposed unl! suem-
mgly inhospitable region Ve native grasses graw exuterantly and tbe
dwarf, sluiled Snow Guns make slow but sure recovery after disastrous
fires of son 25 years agn In the descent Trom the piunaele al the Hors
dows (ie plocipitous Walk of China teack, we sew the Mountain Plom-pine
(Padorarprus wigixa) Anurishing leiween the granite hanlders, anrl thick
tifte of Tissock-grasa at appreaimately 5,090 feet abave sea-level Tie
Coreentperay, sine mf the eight species wative to Victoria, grows at higher
altitides than atiy other shrub) or tree ay the Plateau A dle lower dowit
plants of the Mountain Aciphyl were in bloain, which, with the handsome
greyish foliage and large white asses of the Alpine Daisy-bush, together
with late Auwers.of Dianella tasmpen, made a delightful picture.

The tmposing Monolith. not fae From the Chalet was also visited. The
bush conlained furtnee fiawers in prefasion, notably Qrvlotliew adpistre,
the Satin Everlasting (Metclryain lewcopsicvn) ¢ Gooden yeuewali:
Epacris fialulase, and (le Mountain Heath-niyetle (Bechea Giamiona)
Travelling down the mountain on the return journey, we adinired fine clumps
af the lovely blue Rack [setoine near Mackay's lookout, nnd lower down
lad glimpses ot very robust specimens at the Pyacinth Orchid.

Bird Gfe is linmted on account of the tormal vesting svasen coineading
with anow ard ice Conditions, bur during ihe warther weather [ily Lypes
of birds visit the higher altitudes in seared of food, chiefly nectar Jrom the
Insttaceous flawers, lizards and Bogong maths and other insects, On the
elopes towards the Uederground River are haunts of the Tyrehied. One
ar two milinds were seen, ail recent $eratchmys, while m the tlistaine
Mennra's yocal puunery Could be heard; But the birds were too iar dowal
the stountalia to be seen, Mes. V, H. Maller noted several species of hirds
jlat previglsly recorded for jhe Plateau, ainong then the Boohook Owl,
Niack-backed Magpies were observed it the paddock at the back of tne
Chalet, where the White-hacked variety was nord last year, On two
sucecssive days the Pilot-bird was boih seen and lward, and ane marning
3 large Hock of Switts, visible only through field-glasses, flew over the Chalet

Tt was estimated that af least a hundred native plants were in bloom, and
had other parts of the mountain been visited the list would doubtless baye
been extended Reerctlully it Was moted that bushfires bad taker heady toll
of the trees wil shrubs in revert years; also chat ik as still nennssary to ose
ilie National Park timber for the Chalet fuel requirements 64

The Victorian Naturalist

Vol. LIIL—No. 12 April 7 7, 1037 Xn. 640

THE FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA

The ordivary meeting of the Club was held at the Royal Society's
Hall on Monday, March 8, 1937. The President, Mr, S. R,
Mitchell, presided, and about 100 members and friends attended,

LANTERN LECTURE

The subject for the evening was an illustrated lantern lecture
an “Australian Wild Flowers.” given by Mr. G. N. Hyam. the
sides in natural colours having been prepared by Mr. H. V.
Reeves fron his own photographs.

Mr. Hyam commended-many’ plants for garden use, and gave
interesting Hotes on some natural hybrids ilhistrated;, further fe
remarked on. the advisability of forming a collection of photo-
graphs, covermg all phases of natural history far the use of
writers and lecturers.

Several members expressed their appreciation of the ilinstra-
tions, and the President, for the Club, thanked Messrs. Reeves
and Hyam.

OFFICERS VISITING ENGLAND

The President announced that the Treasurer. Mr. J. Ingram,
and the Assistant Librarian, Mr. W. H. Ingtam, were leaving on
the following Saturday for Engtand, and on the members’ behalf
wished them bon voyage and a safe return.

BUSINESS FROM MINUTES

Preservation of the Koala—Mr. V. H, Miller srated that a
enon was to wait on the Chief Secretary on a date to be

xed

Evening Excursion ta the Zoo —It: was announced that this had
heen postponed until further notice.

Vandalism at Mt. Buffalo.—The Secretary stated that-the Com-
mittee had decided to send a letter to the Chief Secretary with
reference to this’ matter.

CORRESPONDENCE
From the Zoological Society of Victona, inviting weribership.

From Mr. R. Eadie. Badger Creek. regarding the [ortheoming
Club excursion. The President mentioned that “Splash,” the,

194 Prold Natutalists’ Cid Pracdedmuys id roe

famous Platypus. had just died, Mr. V. WH. Miller suggested that
a letter be sent to Mr. adic expressing the Club's regret.

REPORTS OF EXCURSIONS
“Excursions were reported on as fnllows:—-Yarra River trip,
Mr. W. Hanks; and Cheltenham, Mr. Charles Barrett for Mr.
L. G. S. Butler.

ELECTION OF MEMBER

On a show of hands, Miss F. R, Kaul was elected as ari
Ordinary Member of the Club,

NATURE NOTES

Mr. A. R. Varley mentioned that Platypus were common in the
Werribee River at Werribee,

GENERAL BUSINESS
Mr. Charles Barrett asked for an expression of opinion from
the General Meeting in the matter of reprints being given fo
authors of papers published im the Naturalist, Tt was decided
that the matter be relerred ta the Committee for re-consideration.

EXHIBITS

Mrs. Charles Barrett-——-Orchid (Dendrobiim so.) irom Kool-
pinyah, Narthern Territory: and marine shells, from Brunswick
Heads, New South Wales.

Mis. Fenton Woodhtrn.
trom Batesfard. Victoria.

Miss A. Cornish —Dendritic markings from Lilydale.

Mr. Charles Barrett —Satin-banded Spider C4rgrepe acmula),
from Balwyn.

Mr. L. W. Coaper—Dipodiim punctatum (Ilyacinth Orchid),
Loranditus quandang (Grey Mistletoe), L. Migquehi (Stalked Mis-
tletoe). and Dipsacus fullonwn (Fulter’s Teazel).

Me, L. W. Langtord—Tertiary fossils. from Orbost, Vicroria.

Mr. EF. S. Hanks—Specimens of Tree Sparrows and House
Sparrows.

Mr. A. R. Varley... Sponges and Polyzoa,

Mr. VY. H. Miller—Stone Axes, ete, from the Melhoqurne Dis-
trict,

Mr. F_ S. Colliver—Common dendrices from Lilydale, and
Dendysitie Limoanite from Rowsley.

Master A.W. Colhver —Trap- -daor Spider's Nest, from Broker
Hill. New South Wales,

Katth Stars (Geaster fimbriatns)

'

er Caouns, Studies on Australian Aquatic Fung LY

STUDIES ON AUSTRALIAN AQUATIC FUNGI
By Karuizen M. Crooxs, m.sc-

In recent years, investigations have heen carried out in different
countries, notably Great Britain, the United States, Germany and
Denmark, to ascertain the nature of the agnatic fungus flora.
Hitherto, in Australia, the attention of workers has been confined
to the terrestrial fungus flora, with the exception of records of
Saprolegnia ferad’, in association with a disease in fish.’

A preliminary investigation of some of these aquatic fungi has
been carried out, using the methods employed by workers in other
countries. All the forms collected belong to the group of fungi
known as the Phycomycetes, composed of flanientous hyphoe with-
out septa, alihough sometimes they are constricted at intervals.

To obtain the fungi, ine wire-mesh baskets, containing baits of
various kinds, were placed in different localities—ponds, artificial
or natural, or in guiet running rivers. A long wire anchored the
traps to the shore.

The baits used were chicfly fruits of various kinds—apples,
plums, prunes, grapes, oranges, bananas, Solamum pseudo-
capsicum, Cratacgus, Japowce. Cotoncaster, rose hips, also twigs
of various kinds. The traps were submerged for varying periods
of three io eight weeks, At the end oi this time, the fruits were
bromght into the laboratory, and washed in running water for a
lay lo retonve all traces of mind. They were then transferred to
dishes containing sterile distilled water. with loosely fitttng cavers,
so as not to exclude the air, and kept at a low temperature.
Examination of the baits was commenced immediately.

In mast cases, the fruits, particularly apples, rose hips,
Crateggus and Japonica iruits, were thickly dotted with white to
yellowish patches, representing pustules not more than 1 mm, in
diameter. The fungi in these pustules were ustially members of
the Leptomitaceac or Glastocladiaceae, the mmentbers of which are
rather tree-like in form, They have a well-developed rhizoidal
systetn, and the trunk is of the same or greater diameter than the
ani On the finer branches, the reproductive organs are

orne.

The filamentous forms belonging to the Saproleguiaceae, were
not visible when the baits were first brought in to the laboratory,
but after a few days, the long hyphae commenced to grow out
from the twigs ur fruit. Ii boiled halved hemp seeds are placed
in a dish with the baits, the flamentous forms will grow out
readily on the hemp seeds. These latter forms can also be grown
successiully on artificial media, but the forms with a well-deve-
loped rhizaidal system cannot be successfully grown in culture

Twenty different species were examined, and their systematic
and physiological characters have been described Up to date,

oe

7 See . Li. ie Vic. N
196 Croons, Shedier on Ausivatian Aquatic Mangi vi deat

only one new species, Blestocladw aspergilloides nsp,, and one
new variety, Achlya americana, var, megasperma, nov, yar, have
heen recorded,

The life-history of these aquatic forms is naturally adapted to
the environment, and consequently they veproduce in part
asexually, by the formation of free-swimming zoospores, The
zoospores are formed within 4 sporangium which, when mature,
bursts to liberate the spores, which swim actively by means oi
cilia, These zoospores are cither uni-ciliate or bi-ciliate, and
ot germination, produce new plants, Sexual reproduction is well
known tn the forms belouging to the Saprolegniaceae. The male
and female organs are different in structure—the female a large
spherical oogomium, which 15 fertilized by the male antheridium——
a tube-like structure adjacent to the pogonium. The result of
fertilization 1s the formation oi one to many oospores. The
germination of the oospores may occur soon after maturity, or
it may be preceded by a lengthy resting period,

In the Blastocladiales, sexual reproduction has been described
in only one genus—Allomyces, a form not yet recorded in Ats-
tralia” Jn contrast to the Saprolegniales, the male and female
organs are similar in shape, but differing in colour and also in
size, and hoth contain motile gametes. These gametes resemble
zoospores, and are imiciliate, but the male are only about half
the size of the female. The male aud Jenmale gametes unite iv
form zygotes, which germinate in three ty four hours to form
new plants.

However, in Blastocladia and Gontpodya, also members of the
Blastocladiales, sexual reproduction has not been demonstrated
with certainty. Large “resting-spores” are found in Blastociadia,
and are regarded by same workers as oospores which have deve-
laped parthenogenetically, Le. without being fertilized by an
antheridium, These resting-spores are capable of overwintering
for a long perind—~unltke the zoospares of Blattecladia, which are
extremely sensitive to environmental changes.

-LOWER YARRA EXCURSION

_ This excursion was duly carried out after the launch had twice returned
ta the wharf ts pick up latecomers. About 65 members and friends were
present.

The physiography is somewhat dificult, as the Melbourne Harbour Trust
has altered: the river se much. However, tine leader described the river and
surroundings as they used to be, pointing ovt the site of the falls, the
mouth of Elizabeth Street Creck, and the site of various beads, including
the Devil's Elbow caused by the jumection of the Moonee Ponds Creek
with the Yatra, ald the waters af the Bay, farming a bar behind which
the river was foreed jowards Footstray. The Maribvrneng River also was
described; jt is im a more natural state than the Yarra.

W. Hamxs,

oe

on Cotitver, Fosr! Localities in and about Meibourne 197

FOSSIL LOCALITIES IN AND ABOUT MELBOURNE
By F, S. Conrryr
Parr 1I1J—Moonre Ponns Carex,

The best locality in this area is the ald geological survey Section.
just heyond the bridge over the creck at Ormond Road. To
reach there take cither a Brunswick or an Essendon tram, alight
at Ormond Road, and walk straight down to the creek and along
the bank on the Brunswick side tor about 100 yards in the direc-
tion of North Essendon; then climb down the path leading to
the creek. bank.

This excursion should not be undertaken in wet weather, the
path down the cliff can be dangerous, as the soil is clay Again,
the cliffs are of sandstone, and in sorne parts overhang, so that
care should be taken to tnspect the position where it is desired
to work, and make sure that no loase blacks are liable to fall
daring operations.

Close ta the path, just before it reaches the actual bank, will be
seen a band of friable sandstone, and if pieces of this are broken
out with hammer and chiael and examined they will be seen to
consist almast entirely of casts and impressions of shells, ete,
Occasionally, however, a small shining black patch is noticed ; if
close examination proves it to be a shell type, it probably is a
Lamp Shell or Brachiopad of the genus Lingula, allied types of
which are still living in Queensland seas, as at Mission Bay, near
Cairns, This fossil has a very long titne-range. and an interesting
pont is that this black patch consists of some of the original
material practically unchanged; in this case it is not caledtiim car-
bonate, but an organic material allied to horn

Several other gencra of Lamp-shells may be found here, and
alsa a few shells, both univalves and bivalves. The Cephalopods
aré represented by straight Nautiloid shells; starfish are not tm-
common, and trilobites sometimes are found. Crinoids, Corals.
ete., are all tn he foun in this locality,

With reterence to the above list, the shells ars founn as ¢asts
ahd impressions, and the ¢rinoids, starfish and corals in 4 similar
state: the trilobites mostly are collected as fragments, but some-
times complete, for example, a large aimost perfeel specnnen of
Hommolonatus harrison?, McCoy, was found during the early suryey
work,| but very few have been collected since.

‘The faunal assemblage is typical of the Palaezoic, and particu-
larly so of the Silurian age section, and these beds are so well
developed shout Melbourne with their fossils similar over the area
thar they are called the Melbourniatt Series, This series, being
the oldest near the citv, is iurther called the Bed-rack of Mel-
bourtic, and is nat replaced hy anything older until near Sunbury,

198 ~Caruver, Posstl Localities in and about Melbourne bi ar

All the material at this section may be termed fossiliferous, but
specimens are far more rare in the upper heds, although generally,
when found, they are better preserved.

Before leaving the area it will bé well to notice several interest-
ing general geological features. At the present locality, the rock
wall shows a slight dip, and the bedding as @ series of parallel
lines; this is because the beds.are cut across the strike. These
two terms may be illustrated by holding a hook up by the hack
so that the leaves fall apart, and stand out at an angle. The
up-turned edges well represent the strike, and the angle the leaves
form with the horizontal is the dip.

Walking back along the creek bank several patches of shale
will be noticed, and some of these will have a slight coating of
white powder. Testing this with the tongue proves it to be
alum. It is formed im rather an interesting way. The colour
of the shale. is due to pyrite, a sulphide of iron mineral, and with
the break-down of this and liberation of sothe of ithe sulphur
together with rain water a little sulphuric acid is formed; this
in turn attacks the clay, which js mainly an hydroxide of
aluminium and some sulphate of aluminium, the parent of alum
is formed. This forms asa whitish powder on the rock faces.

One other point of imterest is, that among the hill wash at this
locality, Dr. G. B. Pritchard, a Cluh member. at the time, collected
several small crystals of amethystine quartz. ‘These are rare, how-
ever, for I have looked many times without ‘finding a specimen,

The following are the commoner fossils from this area, and the
majority of these should reward the earnest seeker for a few
huurs? work.

Corals— Mollusca—
Favasites sp. Palaeoueila victoriae Chas,
Crinoids— ; Nuculites maccoyianus
Sundry fragments. Chap.
Starfish— Cyclanemu. sp.
Promopalagaster meridjon- Loxconema. sp.
alis var. Murciisonia sp.
Peiraster smyth, McCay. Orthoceras sp.
Protaster brisingoides Cycloceras ibex Seve,
Gregory. Trilobites—
Rrachiopods— Honaonotus harrisont
Lingula sp. McCoy,
Camarotoechig decemplirala Aimpar Spy
Saw

Orthis sp. Coly mere sp.

THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST VoL. Lin Apri, 1937

Plate XVIII

Photo by D. Dickison

Orange-winged Sittella on nest

pet Tekison, Whe Grenge-ceingad Sittetin Wa

THE ORANGE-WINGED SITTELLA (NEOSITTA
CHRYSOPTERA)

By D. Dickson

Though better known as Tree-runner, the Orange-winged
Sittella is quite a common species in Victoria, and it rangés as
far north as Southern Queensland, It is more or less a coastal
farm, but further inland its place is taken by ithe Black-capped
Sittella, whtch is practically simnilar in appearance except for, the
darker feathers on the crown of the head,

Through its habit of keeping to the tree-taps, and being so smali
in size, the Sittella is not well known except to the bird stucett,
lt its twittering notes as it Aies from tree to tree may he Soud
enough at times to attract the attention of persons who are hot
hird Jovers, For the greater part of the year this-bird congregates
in smatl flocks of from eight to a dozen individuals. and even
during the breeding period these small parties occasionally are
seen, The Sittella is a most restless bird. Flying anto the top-
mast branches of either a green or dead tree, tt works its way
rapidly down the branches to the trunk, and then flies off to
another tree, ta repeat the performance. [ts methods of searching
for food are in contrast to those of the tree-creepers, which work
up the trunk of the tree to the branches.

Tr is not usual to find the Orange-winged Sittella close to Mel-
hourne, but some years ago a pair built a pest i a tall Paper-
bark tree growing on the banks of Gardner's Creek, not far fram
the East Malvern Station. On other occasions they have been
seen in the cucalypts around Ashburton, but it is now 2 few years
since any have been seen out there.

Male and female are practically alike in appearance, but the
female has the feathers on the crawe of the head darker than the
inale. In the box timber beyond Melton specimens with the
feathers hlack on the head have been noted on many occasions,
but in all such cases they have been in small flacks with other
birds, whose feathers on the heads have been either brown or
biack brown. It seems hardly likely that the Black-capped
Sittella of the dry inland would range so far south, but at tie
present J am inclined to consider the dark-headed specimens to be
merely a form of maturity due to age. ;

The nest, a beautiful example, of bird architecture, is built
of small chips of bark and woven together with cobwebs. It is
always placed in a sharp fork of a dead branch at any height
from 10 ft. to 80 ft. from the ground, Generally three eges form
the clutch; they are thickly covered with Iack and reddish-brown
markings, particularly at the Jarger end. Incubation takes

‘ iP ‘Vio. Nat.
200 Kowarns. Two Mistletoes New to Vietorin VoeLL

ptr days, and the young ones remain in the nest for a similar
period.

The breeding season is at its height in the jatter part of Octoher
and ducing November. In Southern Victoria some pairs build as
early as the Arst week jn September, but, as with most birds that
nest early, the period of bifilding the nest is extended over several
weeks, which, is aot the case Jater in the season.

Male and female work together in building the nest. They ate
quite fearless of the presence of a human being near the nest,
but if the nest is touched they will readily desert it; even though
the eggs may he on the pomt of hatching. At other times, when
they have almost completed the building of the nest, and without
heing molested tn any way, they will suddenly decide tn tear the
structure to pieces. and build elsewhere, and often the new nest may
be three hundred yards away from the site of the old one.

The lest tise to photograph the Sittella is either during the
building period or when there are young ones in the nest. They
will then came regularly to the nest, and a good picture of the
lard itself can he obtained. otherwise, if sitting on the eggs the
hérd is too deep down in the nest for photographic purposes,

TWO MISTLETOES NEW TO VICTORIA
Ry Frank Rosrrns, 8.5c.

Tn June, 1935, while showing a city friend the famous Pipeclay
Creck, Orbast, I noticed a cactus-like parasite on the Lilly-pilly
(Eugenia Smith) there, This was identified by the Government
Butanist as Kortholsella articulate, Jointed Mistletoe, which be-
fongs ta the Loranthaceae, but in a different section from the
commoner Loranthus and Phrygdantins. Another loranth,
Natothixos sultaurens, Golden Mistletoe, closely related to the
jointed specics, was found by Miss E. K. Turner at Mallacoota
(Victorian Naturalist, February, 1935). The latter is always
parasitic on members of its own family, in this case, on Phe
gilanthys eucalyprfolius.

Considerable interest is attached ta these discoveries, as the
British Misc is very closely telated, particularly ta Notothixas,
and there are no definite Vietorian-records of species of this -sec-
tion of the mistletoes. A detailed desenptiun, with plates of both
these plants. is given by Blakely in his revision nf the three genera,
Korthalsells, Notofhixos, and Viscum, of this section, Proc. Linn.
Soe. of NSM, (1928), Vol. 53. p. 31, et seg.

At Pipeclay Creek, Korthalsella articudata has been found grow-
ing Only on the Lilly-pilly on about half a dozen trees, distributed
half 2 mile from the mouth of the stream, The-plants are mostly
small, 6 inches or less, erect, cactus-like, and very difficult to

a " a
Ay vv V/

— — = F Rediwas.

Mistletoes new to Victoria, Aorthalsella articulata and Nolothiros
subaureus.

. F ty By Vic, Nat.
202 Roppins, Twe Mistletoes New to Picteria Vol, LOL

detect amid the host's foliage, The Jointed Mistletce is rare in
South Australia (one report, L. Eyre), West Australia (one
report), and Queensland, (two reports, plants in each case grow-
ing on Evgenia Saithi): Int is found in many places in New
South Wales on more than six different hosts, including the
garden Peach. Frequently, it grows to a length of 24 in. in penda-
lous, compact masses. Two species of Aorthalsella are known 11
Australia, and probably three from the Pacific Islands.

The most striking feature of this plant is its unusual habit of
growth, Being leafless, the function of leaves is performed by
flat, ribbed, jointed stems or internodes, hence the cactus-like
appearance. At the joints or nodes, the upper part of the inter-
node is expanded into a socket-like floral cushion, which acts not
only as a receptacle for flowers and fruit, but is also the point
from which new shoots grow; usually, two shoots, but often
three. In Miscum, this cushion is a mere band. On this ex-
panded collar will be seen numerous closely-packed, sessile fruits
and flowers, with dark-coloured short cilia between them. These
ovoid fruits almost encircle the node, being thickest on the broader
shoulders.

The flowers are unisexual, and very small, about 1 mm., the
males being even smaller. I have observed the male flowers in
Novetnber and January. They are three-partite, with a globular
centre (anthers), and very few are found. The female flower
looks just like a fruit with a tiny three-lobed openmy at the top,
and a tiny stigma. The remains of the perianth can always be
more or less distinctly seen on the top of the frpit. Inside each
fruit there is a tiny kidney-shaped viscid seed, about 4 mm. diam.
I do not know what disperses the seeds, but in November observed
a number of seeds germinating on the parent. These, of course,
would soon die. I found no evidence of a disc, lut the shoot
attaches itself to the host by a disc, and after losing the seed,
the shoot soon shows the nodose branches with the dark cilia en-
circling the nodes.

There are ten species of Notothixos, four being Australian, and
six belonging to the Pacific Islands, ete. They are usually golden
stellate or hoary plants, usually parasitic en members of their
own family. Nofathtres subaurciusy is very common north of
Sydney to the Hawkesbury River, and also in parts of Queens-
land, growing on nearly a dozen other members of its own family,
and rarely on plants of other families. In January, 1937, I
observed 'it at Mallacoota growing on Phrygilanthus eucalypti-
foliws, right in front of the hotel, and also in larger quantities
near the ocean beach. Phrygtlanthus is very common there,
growing chiefly on Acacia molfisstnia and Angophora atermedia,

The plant is compact and pendulous up ta 2 ft. in length, the
vyate three-nerved leaves, 2-4 cms. long, being dark glossy

Aen Rogsins, Two Mestletocs New to Vactorio 203

green above, and densely covered below with a golden stellate
tamentum, thus ntaking the plant conspicuous among the other
foliage, The stems, flowers and buds are also covered with this
tomentuni, :

The inflorescence 35 tisually densely tomentose, with thtee re-
flexed cyniules on a common peduncle. ach cymule is 4 single
row of sessile Anwers set in deep nutches. The flowers are uni-
stxual and iour-partite, and were just heginning to open about
January 15, Most cymules had seven Howers, the central one
hein male and others Fernafe.

KEY TO PLATE
Vig. |-—Kortthalsadla articwlata—Natural size, show wiidn and Traits

— 2—Same, young phat, patural size, showing young shoo and union,

. da—Florat band with fruits aod male flowers (Nov) * 3

a emacs band avith some fruits and buds—rransyerse view from
anove,

. 4 5—Male bud. and flower—anthers united m centre. *

» (Fruit, showing remains of periinth above. 3%) 10.

, 3%, B--Bemale flowers from side aud above. & 15

. O--Seed. X 3. .

, 1—Germinating seed,

» J), 12—Germinating sced—turther stagés~-shewing suctorial disc, and
young shoot, After Blakely.

A—Notothixos subayvens with inftorescence of 3 cymules. ™ 3

B, C.—Male bud and flower, Anther-attached within each petal, & 4.

D0. E—Female bud and fawer. “X 6,

NOTES OX TWO SPECIES OF SPARROWS

The statenicat that sparrows of two distinct species exist ahout Melbourne
seems to have caused some surprise to a number of om members. Actu-
ally there is considerable difference hetween the two birds, which are castle
uistineurshed in the freld (or the street) by those acquainted with them
So far as I am aware, they never interbreed.

The imale of the House Sparrow (Passer domestions), We downnairt
species here, has a dark throut—necktie it has been galled—bur its femate
lis a plain grey throat ane chest. They have yellaw bills and have a single
patch of white on each wing. b) the Tree Sparrow (Passer muntana) on
the cowirary, male and female are similar, ‘They each have a dark patct
under the bill, chestnut head aml maps two small white patches on the
wings, and 2 black bili. In addition, and best guide mark of all, the Tree
Sparrow has a white patch on each side of the head and/neck, with a smiall
dark carpatch mn the centre of it. This js nearly always visible if a side
view of the bird is obtained. ;

The westing habits are similar both spoces building in cither trees or
houses, At Coburg we have had a pai; of Tree Syarrows building in ane
side of the spouting, god a pair of Tlouse Spareows in the other. Tree
Sparrows congregate uw) larfe flocks in ihe aueamn. T have sated up bo
on, Whenever T have observed a large Hack af Sparrows they have proved
lo be ‘Yret Sparrows, though 7 have, at tines, foutid a few House Sparrows
among them. House Sparrows seem to confine themselves to smaller
jrartics of up tora dozen.

Ernest S, Hanns.

tw Pe, > Vie Nat,
pod | Swifts and Weather Val. nl.

SWIFTS AND WEATIIER

The Spine-tailed Swift (Airenda pes condacutus) which used to
appear in very targe numbers in the Mersey district, Tasmania,
thirty vears ago, of late seldom appears here, although stil occur-
ting in flocks in other parts of the island, At the time they were
plentiful I made tariy observations, mast of which are recorded
in back volumes af The nan, connecting their appearance, especi-
ally when Aying low, with approaching cyclonic disturbances.

Of the few records in recent years. the tallowing may be ot
interest;-—“At Mersey Bluff, on March 13, 1930. at 5 o'clock
in the evening, Spine-tailed Swifts were coursing over the scrub.
some as.Jow a5 5 feet or 6 feet above the grownd. The evening
was overcast and sultry, after rain a few hours previously, On
March 16, at $30 pm. a Jarge number of Swiits passed over the
Don Road (where T live) at a tair height, and heading north-
west, Next day was fine with light north-west breeze, but on
the morning af March 18 the weather became squally and wet.”
While motoring through! Deloraine on March 29, 1932, T observed
a Swiit flying rather low towards the east; this was after a north-
west gale with heavy rain. An observer in that district had
shortly before noted a party of the birds appearing in advance
of an atmospheric disturbance,

The late Mr. Clive Lord, Director of the Tasmanian Museurn,
sent me a note confirming in a remarkable way the connection of
Swifts with weather conditions, On a beautifully clear sunny
morning, he was motoring from Hobart te Tasman’s Peninsula
when a number of Swiits appeared, Bying quite low. He re-
niarked to a friend th the ear, “Well, Stuart Dove is out of it this
time, with regard to birds and weather!” Before they reached
their destination, the sky hud become overcast, and the day turned
out to. be a “soaker.”

H. Sroagt Dave

West Devonport, Yasmania.

THE MILLIPEDES

Lately specimens of Millipedes have heen sent ta me for identification, but
who im Victoria is able to “name” these interesting little creatures? There
15 tho yery satisfactory svstertatic work relating to the Australian Milli-
oedes, excepting that in which Chamberlin describes a number of species, and
references to thas= previously Enown, but omits te give keys to aid in idenie
fication,

An American authority, H. F. Loontis, Bureau of Plant Industry, U.S
Department of Agriculture, has promised for the Noturedisi a semi-popular
paper ou Millipedes generally, He has no wish to receive Australian material,
jE identification fie desired, for the American collections at his disposal will,
he states, require all the tune that He cau devole ty Millipedes. CR