Living Lights that Never Die 279 



the nucleus, which here Is a small granular kernel near 

 the center; the cytoplasm, or cell substance, and the 

 cell wall. From the nucleus can be seen radiating 

 through the cytoplasm a number of branched granular 

 threads. This simple structure — that Is, the fact that 

 NoctUuca is a one-celled creature — places it in the very 

 lowest group of animals, the Protozoa. 



NOCTILUCA. (greatly ENLARGED.) 



In common with other protozoans, NoctUuca does 

 not die from old age; in fact, barring bodily injuries or 

 other accidents, it does not die at all. The reason for 

 this can best be understood by examining its mode of 

 reproduction. When the individual reaches a certain 

 stage In its life, a division of its nucleus takes place 

 which is soon followed by a constriction in the cell wall 

 right around the middle of the animal. This constric 



