256 THE INHABITANTS OF THE SEA, 
tially differs from it in the formation of its branchia, which 
float freely in the water, attached to the abdominal legs, holds 
an equal rank in the estimation of the South Europeans, 
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Crustaceans and Oysters. 
But of all crustaceans, none approaches the Lobster in delicacy 
of taste. This creature, the epi- 
cure’s delight, loves to dwell in the 
deep clear waters along bold rocky 
shores, where it is taken in wicker 
baskets, or with small nets attached 
to iron hoops. About two millions 
of lobsters are annually imported 
from Norway, although they are also found in great abundances 
along the Scottish and Irish coasts. Thus, considering their high 
price, they form a considerable article of trade; and yet they 
are far from equalling in importance the minute Herring-crab 
(Cancer halecwm), which, by forming the chief nourishment of 
that invaluable fish, renders in an indirect way incalculable 
services to man. 
The lobster breeds in the summer months, depositing many 
thousands of eggs in the sand, and leaving them there to be 
hatched by the sun. But few, as may easily be imagined, live 
to attain a size befitting them to appear in red livery on our 
tables. Like all crustaceans, the lobster casts its shell annually, 
and with such perfection, that the discarded garment, with all 
Spotted Mantis Crab. 
