28 REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS OF IXLAXD FISHERIES. 



complete star can result from all the fragments, and then onlj^ 

 when one fragment contains at least the whole central disc. Com- 

 plete regeneration from a single arm has been described for cer- 

 tain species by Prof. Haeckel. 



XVII. What are the artificial methods of destruction now in use 

 in Rhode Island or elsewhere ? 

 Star-fishes are caught in considerable numbers with the spear 

 and tongs, but the more efficient method is the use of the " tangle " 

 or "mop." The tangle consists of a number of mops of cotton 

 waste or similar material attached to an iron bar. By dragging 

 these mops over the oyster beds the stars become entangled and 

 are drawn up with the mops. The mops are usually detached 

 from the iron bar and thrown, together with the stars, into a 

 tub of hot water. Meanwhile other mops are attached to the 

 bar and thrown overboard. After the stars are killed they can 

 be more easily picked off the mops than when they are alive. 

 Some oystermen prefer to dredge up oysters, stars and all, and, 

 having culled out the stars, to replant the oysters. Dead stars 

 make an excellent fertilizer. 



APPLICATION FOR APPROPRIATION. 



The Commission respectfully asks for an appropriation of $3,000 

 to defray the expenses of the ensuing year, and bases its applica- 

 tion upon the following: 



1. The investigation upon the depredations of the star-fish, an 

 account of which accompanies this application, have already 

 yielded sufficient scientific and practical results to warrant their 

 continuation for at least an entire year, that the period of breed- 

 ing, rate of growth, and seasonal habits may be definitely deter- 

 mined. 



2. The reasons for the present depleted conditions of the clam- 

 beds should be known. The breeding habits and breeding period 



