2. On the Structure and Functions of the Branchial Sac of the Simple Ascidiæ

Extract

The chief portion of this paper is occupied with an inquiry into the truth of Milne Edwards' theory, that the branchial sac of the Ascidians is perforated throughout by apertures, or what he called branchial stigmata.

Some experiments and observations made by Mr Murray last season had induced him to regard this view with doubt. In considering the question, he first examined the evidence that was recorded in support of it. Putting aside those writers who had taken M. Edwards' theory on trust, he could only find four observers who seem to have critically tested it, viz.,—Dr Lister, with whom the idea originated: who, while stating that the walls of the sac appeared to be traversed by open spaces, yet states that at times he thought he saw something like a veil stretching across them, and that the particles in suspension in the water were observed to course past these spaces without entering; which would appear to be inconsistent with the idea of the water entering, for the course of the water, and of the particles floating in it, must necessarily be the same.