106 VIGNETTES FROM INVISIBLE LIFE. 



it, there are at least two zones or layers namely, a 

 bright and clear vacuolar ectosarc, covering a firmer 

 clouded internal sphere, or (as it is named) endosarc. 

 Dropping further resemblances to the sun and the 

 moon, we see springing from this endosarc the 

 pseudopodal rays, which are simply extensions of its 

 own granular protoplasmic substance. These rayed 

 extensions are very delicate and flexible tentacles, 

 endowed with extraordinary power. There is a 

 firm axis filament or thread starting from the body 

 forming their base, by which the creature can stiffen 

 or render them flexible, extend or withdraw them, at 

 will. All these movements are, however, very slow, 

 yet of a very pronounced and decided character. 

 When the creature requires food these spinal rays 

 are extended to their utmost length, far longer than 

 the body, and, stretching out in all directions, are 

 soon brought into contact with the more active 

 inhabitants in their neighbourhood. A small rotifer 

 or water-flea rushing past is sometimes apparently 

 impaled on their fine points, which, in the not 

 uncommon event of the struggle that now en- 

 sues, are assisted by other neighbouring spines 

 being brought to bear on and around the captive, 



