Fungidse

Fungidse, a family of corals including all those in which the septa are united by the small cross bars known as syn.-ipticulae. The typical genus, Fungia, has a form somewhat like the top of a mushroom, Fung-Whang, the Chinese phoenix, described as adorned with every colour, and combining in , its forms and motions whatever is elegant and graceful. Its disposition is so benevolent that it will not peck or injure living insects, or tread on growing herbs. It has not been seen since the days of Confucius. (Williams, Middle Kingdom.) Fiinj. [Fung.]