(phenogam signifying "showy flowers," and cryptogam "hidden flowers"), but the terms represent distinct ideas in classification. The cryptogams include three great series of plants—the Thallophytes or algæ, lichens, and fungi; the Bryophytes or mosslike plants; the Pteridophytes or fernlike plants.
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Fig. 263.—Diagram to explain the Terminology of the Frond.
Suggestions.—186. The parts of a fern leaf. The primary
complete divisions of a frond are called pinnæ, no matter whether
the frond is pinnate or not. In
ferns the word "pinna" is used in
essentially the same way that leaflet
is in the once-compound leaves
of other plants. The secondary
leaflets are called pinnules, and in
thrice, or more, compound fronds,
the last complete parts or leaflets
are ultimate pinnules. The diagram
(Fig. 263) will aid in making
the subject clear. If the frond
were not divided to the midrib, it
would be simple, but this diagram
represents a compound frond.
The general outline of the frond,
as bounded by the dotted line, is
ovate. The stipe is very short.
The midrib of a compound frond
is known as the rachis. In a decompound
frond, this main rachis
is called the primary rachis. Segments
(not divided to the rachis)
are seen at the tip, and down to
h on one side and to m on the
other. Pinnæ are shown at i, k, l, o, n. The pinna o is entire;
n is crenate-dentate; i is sinuate or wavy, with an auricle at the
base; k and l are compound. The pinna k has twelve entire pinnules.
(Is there ever an even number of pinnules on any pinna?)
Pinna l has nine compound pinnules, each bearing several entire
ultimate pinnules. The spores.—187. Lay a mature fruiting frond
of any fern on white paper, top side up, and allow it to remain in
a dry, warm place. The spores will discharge on the paper.
188. Lay the full-grown (but not dry) cap of a mushroom or
toadstool bottom down on a sheet of clean paper, under a ventilated
box in a warm, dry place. A day later raise the cap.