THE RHIZOSTOMA. 



567 



and assumes the form of .an unmistakable, though shallow-disced Medusa. Its arms rapidly 

 gain strength, the attachment becomes hourly weaker, until at last the whole disc is broken 

 away, and floats into the wide sea in its new form. 



How wonderful is this phenomenon, and how full of interest is the study of animate 

 nature ! Here we have a being which first enters into active existence in a shape like that of 

 the infusorial animalcules ; then changing into a hydra, and while in this state becoming the 

 parent of a numerous offspring ; then developing into a Strobila ; and lastly, breaking up into 

 a series of Medusae. 



