62 ZOOPHYTES. 



are unfolded first, being the most mature ; those above them are regular 

 smooth ovoids, on twigs of considerable length ; and still higher on the 

 specimen, are buds less advanced, the highest merely irregular enlarge- 

 ments. As the ovoid attains perfection, it developes in the form of a 

 hydra, with incurving tentacula. — Fig. 7. 



Among the peculiarities of this product, may be noted the singular 

 voluntary distortion of the head, and the spontaneous deflection of the 

 stem, and of the subordinate parts. While yet in an early stage, the head, 

 with its short stem, can, by inclining, actually describe a circle around 

 the root as a centre. Similar movements are indicated by the adult bear- 

 ing a number of heads. Nay, the like is seen of the hydra, while yet com- 

 paratively an embryo, for the pedicle then bends with it in various direc- 

 tions ; and where several buds are together, their united influence can 

 twist the main stem, curving it over almost to the root. 



A habit equally remarkable merits notice ; though quiescence always 

 prevails during the earlier part of the day, among a colony of single 

 animals, that is, those consisting of only a head and stem, all are observed 

 in motion as the hours advance, and as the sun begins to decline. The 

 tentacula closing over the mouth, the heads become globular, nod, and 

 strike against each other, which they are enabled to do by flexibility of 

 the stalk. Where many are arranged in a row, they seem literally to pass 

 a blow along the whole line, as if in sport. Singular it is, that all animals, 

 even the humblest, seem to have moments happier than others of their 

 existence ; and testify, by unequivocal demonstration, their present enjoy- 

 ments in conscious security. 



Uncommon agitation is shewn by these creatures on transference from 

 one vessel to another. Indeed, their nature is distinguished at all times 

 by restlessness, thus aggravating the embarrassments of microscopical ob- 

 servation. The agitation of several individuals together is so great, as to 

 disturb the substance whereon they are seated from the focus of the 

 instrument ; and the extraordinary distortion of adults, not only removes 

 them entirely from its field, but it is incessantly changing the configura- 

 tion of the parts. Thus, all artists evidently labour under particular em- 

 barrassment, in endeavouring to produce accurate delineations — which is 



