THIS book is by far the most complete survey of the literature in a special, and naturally delimited, field ; but it is also a contribution to knowledge in this field embodying many years of intensive work by a vigorous and original worker. Prof. Lloyd's own interest in carnivorous plants began with his studies of Utricularia, and in this monograph the descriptions of the organization and functioning of the many species in this genus and of the allied structures in the little-known genera Polypompholyx and Biovularia occupy a large proportion of the text. Prof. Lloyd's own contributions on the bladder of Utricularia extended considerably our knowledge of its structure and method of working, particularly as to the presence of the second valve membrane at the mouth, the velum, and its significance in facilitating the water-tight closure of the door necessary for the setting of the trap. When he extended his survey to cover other types of carnivorous flowering plants, besides making by far the most complete survey of the literature yet available, in every possible case he has examined material, living when possible, and in many cases as a result new facts are supplied as to development and structure, and he is able, from his first-hand knowledge of the plants under consideration, to give a critical and well-balanced survey of the work of earlier investigators.The Carnivorous PlantsBy Dr. Francis Ernest Lloyd. (A New Series of Plant Science Books, Vol. 9.) Pp. xvi + 352 (38 plates). (Waltham, Mass.: Chronica Botanica Co.; London: Wm. Dawson and Sons, Ltd., 1942.) 6 dollars.