202 ZOOPHYTES. 



The senses of the Actinia seem to be extremely obtuse, and its per- 

 ception alike obscure and imperfect. Naturalists debate whether any 

 nervous system exists in this animal ; but, as in other animals, if nerves 

 be the medium of transmitting impressions, it is obvious, that those of 

 which the Actinia is susceptible, must be referred to the same channel, or 

 to some adequate substitute incorporated with its substance. 



Yet the creature seems neither sensible of the presence of its favour- 

 ite prey, when in its immediate vicinity, nor does it resort to the quickest 

 and easiest means of preservation when it is itself in peril. The prey may 

 be within a hair's-breadth, but it is seized only on actual contact. There 

 is no spontaneous extension of the numerous external organs capable of 

 all inflection : no searching activity or otherwise to reach it : in strict con- 

 formity here with the nature of the Hydra tuba. More singular still, 

 should the vessel be gradually emptied, or the water evaporate so as to 

 leave these animals totally or partially dry, they never lower the base 

 for immersion in the residue, — not even when the tentacula can reach its 

 surface. 



The Actinia is remarkably tenacious of life. Abrasion of the skin is 

 injurious, but it can endure extraordinary laceration, without destruction, 

 and it manifests extraordinary reproductive powers in the recovery of 

 mutilated parts, whereof some detail will be found in the works of most 

 authors who have treated of its properties. But the cruel experiments 

 proving them are most reprehensible. 



In some countries, the Actinia is occasionally an article of food ; but 

 I have not heard of it being used as such in the British Islands. Its hardy 

 nature and easy preservation, render it an interesting and useful subject 

 for the enquiries of the naturalist. 



The appearance of the animal is so liable to the influence of both ex- 

 ternal and internal causes, that much precaution must be employed in 

 giving the true resemblance of specimens. It is here that there have been 

 frequent and extraordinary failures. It should never be attempted unless 

 from the living animal, from good specimens, and these in the best con- 

 dition. 



This genus could admit of convenient subdivisions, assuming the most 



