SPONGES 105 
COLLECTING MARINE SPONGES. 
For gathering many Marine Sponges, the collector 
will need a water glass and sponge hook, which instru- 
ments are described on pages 51 and 52, alsoa boat. As 
related, it will require considerable practice to gather 
sponges in swift tide ways. When gathered, sponges should 
not be placed together, but should be kept in separate 
jars or other vessels in water. This is easily accomplished 
when ina boat, hence it is always advisable to have one 
for convenience in carrying instruments and specimens, 
even when one is wading along shallow banks upon which 
sponges abound. When it is possible it is best to try and 
remove a sponge from the bottom with the hands, which 
may be guarded from the unpleasant effects produced by 
the spicules of those species which are thus armed, by the 
use of rubber gloves. | When the object upon which the 
sponge grows is small enough to be removed with the 
sponge adhering to it, it is of course best to let the sponge 
remain on its natural base. 
