Measures
Decimetre.
| 1 Metre | 39.371 | Inches |
| 1 Decimetre | 3.9371 | ” |
| 1 Centimetre (C M.) | .39371 | ” |
| 1 Millimetre (M.M.) | .039371 | ” |
| 1 Micron (µ) 1 Millionth of a Metre | 1⁄25400 of an Inch. | |
| 1 Line (″) 1⁄12 of an Inch | ||
| 1 Gramme | 15.433 | Troy Grains |
| 1 Decigramme | 1.543 | ” ” |
| 1 Centigramme | .1543 | ” ” |
| 1 Milligramme | .01543 | ” ” |
Use of Charts of Genera.
The spore color being determined, turn to the Genera Chart, showing spores of like color. Ascertain from the specimen whether or not its cap or hymenophore is distinct or easily separable from the stem and the gills free from the stem; if they are, it may belong to one of the genera in the upper row of figures; if the cap is not easily separable nor the gills free, look at the shape of the gills, and find on the chart a corresponding gill-shape. It is probable that the genus can thus be determined. Then turn to this genus in the text, read the heading, look over the “Analysis of Tribes,” go to the tribe nearest in designating the properties of the specimen; comparing the specimen with the descriptions of species given thereunder, will probably enable the seeker to decide upon its name.
It should be remembered that the descriptions in the text are of the specimen or specimens which the author of the species saw. What the author says fixes the type of the species. Specimens of the species may, and very frequently do, vary greatly from the type. If the first attempt to fix the genus is not satisfactory, try again, and keep on trying until reasonably sure. The amateur will find, however good an opinion may exist in his mind of the stock of patience on hand, that the territory of patience has just been reached.
Making and Preserving Notes.
An excellent blank form for “Collectors’ Notes” is published by the Boston Mycological Club, at one cent. It is desirable that there should be uniformity in collectors’ notes, and that they should be as full as possible. A form of this, or a similar kind, should be filled in and kept, and should also be used when specimens are sent to an expert for identification. Such specimens should be fresh, wrapped separately in tissue paper, numbered, and a few should be packed in a box that will not crush in the mail. The address of the sender should be upon the outside. The collector’s notes should be sent in a letter, with a postage stamp for reply enclosed. If the specimens have to go a great distance, they should be partially dried in a slow, open oven, or they will be a rotten mass when they reach their destination.
To Test Edibility of Species.