STOMAPODA. 



217 



swimming-legs. The tail is expanded into a broad 

 fin. By the nature of its conformation we see that 

 this animal is adapted both for seizing and holding 



Fig. 165.— mantis .shru::'. 



its prey, as well as for swimming, but not at all for 

 walking'. 



o 

 Dr. Lakis Las published the following observations on the habits 

 of a specimen tliat he kept alive in a basin of sea-water for two 

 days : — " It sported about, and exhibited a boldness rather unex- 

 pected. When alarmed it sprang backwards with great velocity, 

 after which it placed itself in a menacing attitude. The j^romiiient 

 appearance of the eyes, their brilliancy and attentive watching, the 

 feeling power of the long antennae, evinced quick apprehension and 

 in&iinct. I brought a silver spoon near thenj, which was struck out 

 of my hand, with a suddenness and force comparable to that of an 

 electric shock. This blow was inflicted by the large arms, whicli 

 were closed and projected in an instant with the quickness of light- 

 ning. An apparent anxiety to keep the head and claws in front, 

 made me suspect that the animal lodges its hinder parts in holes or 

 recesses, from which it ciin strike at its prey, or other passing objects." 



The Opossum Shrimps {Mysis) have their branchiae 

 sometimes attached to the abdominal legs, sometimes 

 to the thoracic legs, but they are never enclosed 

 within the carapace. These animals have received 



L 



