290 



THE SEA SHORE 



within the shells of bivalve molluscs. One species the Common 

 Pea Crab (Pinnotheres pisum) is frequently found in the Edible 

 Mussel ; the female, which is much larger than the male, being 



FIG. 216. THE THORNBACK CRAB (Mate Squinado) 



much more commonly found. Another species the Pinna Pea 

 Crab (P. veterum), infests the Pinna and Modiolus. 



On Plate VI. is a drawing of the Angular Crab (Gonoplax 

 angulata) mentioned above, the striking form and delicate colouring 

 of which can never be mistaken. We would, 

 however, call particular attention to the broad 

 and square front of the cephalothorax, with 

 its two sharp spines, and to the length of the 

 eye-stalks. Unfortunately for the amateur, 

 this pretty crab is only to be found in deep 

 water, off the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, 

 so that here, again, the aid of the fisherman 

 is valuable ; but, as observed in the case of 

 other deep-sea dwellers, may also be looked for in the stomachs 

 of cod and other bottom fishes. The sex figured is the male, in 



FIG. 217. THE PEA 

 CRAB (Pinnotheres 

 pisum) 



