The Fluorescence of certain Lower Plants

Abstract

IT will, I venture to believe, interest some of the readers of NATURE to know that the Cyanophyceæ (Schizophyceæ) or blue-green algæ, the diatoms and some at least of the true green algæ among, or closely related to, the Pleurococcaceæ, are visibly strongly fluorescent when viewed ultramicroscopically, if the proper optical conditions are achieved. A much wider claim for the usefulness of the method might be made, but it will be unnecessary; for the moment, if any one who may be interested tries it, he will appreciate at once its many possibilities.