n8 SEA FABLES EXPLAINED. 



indebted to the proprietors of that paper for the accom- 

 panying portrait of it. 



The young Barnacle when just extruded from the shell of 

 its parent is a very different being from that which it will 

 be in its mature condition. It begins its life in a form 

 exactly like that of an entomostracous crustacean, and, 

 like a Cyclops, has one large eye in the middle of its fore- 

 head. In this state it swims freely, and with great activity. 

 It undergoes three moults, each time altering its figure, 

 until at the third exuviation it has become enclosed in a 



FIG. 41. — A YOUNG BARNACLE. {Larva of C/ithaniahcs stellaius.) 



bivalve shell, and has acquired a second eye. It is now 

 ready to attach itself to its abiding-place ; so, selecting its 

 future residence, it presses itself against the wood, or what- 

 ever the substance may be, pours out from its two antennae 

 a glutinous cement, which hardens in water, and thus fastens 

 itself by the front of its head, is henceforth a fixture for 

 life, and assumes the adult form in which most persons 

 know it best* 



* If any of my readers wish to observe the development of young 

 barnacles they may easily do so. The method I have generally 

 adopted has been as follows : Procure a shallow glass or earthenware 

 milk-pan that will hold at least a gallon. Fill this to within an inch 



