104 SPONGES 
COLLECTING, AN D/ PREPARING 
SPONGES (POR SCIEN PT USE 
The following are the methods which long experience 
has taught me are the best for preparing sponges for scien- 
tific specimens. To begin with one of the most important 
items, by whatever method sponges are prepared, they 
should always be carefully labeled, giving locality, date, 
depth of water, character of bottom and color when living. 
Notes should also be made as to whether the sponge 
shrinks upon being handled, its general appearance under 
water, whether the large excurrent tubes are open or 
closed, and in this connection it is well to note the state of 
the tide in collecting marine species, whether ebbing or 
flowing. Any other notes in respect to the situation of the 
sponge upon the bottom regarding currents etc., position in 
which the sponge grows upon any object; in short, almost 
any notes which can be made upon animals which are so 
little known living as are the sponges, will prove of value. 
