BRACHYURI. 153 



The motions of the Cancer mcenas are lively, quick, and active. 

 But it does not swim. In the natural state, it constantly endeavours to 

 retreat, shunning the presence of man as an inveterate enemy. None of 

 our native species is alike littoral. The shore is almost as much the 

 place of its abode as the sea. Wherever rock, and weeds, and sand 

 abound, it is commonly present, ever seeking shelter in the fissures, or 

 under the shelves, so that the body may be protected by some covering. 



Heat and hunger are the great incentives to action throughout the 

 tribe. Like insects, these creatures are wonderfully susceptible of cold. 

 A very moderate degree of refrigeration will render the Cancer manas 

 almost torpid, even in summer. 



But it is naturally the most restless animal imaginable, and con- 

 tinually prepared to escape from confinement. Specimens in captivity 

 must be therefore kept in vessels deeper than the stretch of their limbs, 

 otherwise they will contrive to crawl over the ledge. Nevertheless, 

 they are easily preserved ; adverting to change their element frequently, 

 — always a few hours after having fed. 



The Cancer mcenas feeds voraciously. No animal matter is rejected. 

 What is most convenient and acceptable to aU its congenera also, is 

 mussel, which may be kept fresh a long time, though that seems no 

 great recommendation. This creature is not nice in the quality of its 

 sustenance. It feeds as promiscuously as any other, whether the sub- 

 stance be fresh or putrid ; nor, in time of scarcity, are some of the 

 alga3 and fuci refused. I have never seen any animal matter rejected, 

 fish or flesh, — h\dng or dead, — and the quantity devoured is enormous. 

 But after a voracious meal, nothing is generally sought the succeeding 

 day ; and specimens can abstain entirely from food for several days, 

 without sensible injury ; during which time, they remain perfectly 

 tranquil. 



Should a mussel shell, or other bivalve, be split asunder, and the 

 half given to a specimen of the Cancer mcenas, it holds the valve in one 

 claw, and with the other picks out the contents, conveying the morsel 

 to its mouth as people employ their hands. The shell at length emptied, 

 is as clean as if cleansed artificially. 



