36 THE GAY CYDIPPE. 



whilst the remainder continue in rapid vibration, it is enabled 

 instantly to change the direction of its course, and to wander 

 through the waves at will. 



Nor is this all. In addition to its belts of paddles, the Cydippe 

 is furnished with two long tendril-like appendages beset with deli- 

 cate filaments, which issue, at the lower part of its body, from 

 two deep cavities, into which they can be completely withdrawn 

 with great rapidity. Sometimes the little fellow may be seen 

 joyously glancing about in the water with both these organs 

 entirely concealed from view, but only a few moments probably 

 elapse before they are shot out to four or five times the length of 

 the body, and while the delicate processes along their course 

 uncoil and twirl about, the tendrils themselves are flung into an 

 endless variety of beautiful curves, with an air of elegance and 

 grace perfectly indescribable. 



Not the least curious circumstance connected with this inte- 

 resting Jelly-fish, is its odd and very original method of procuring 

 food. It might be thought that with no eyes to see, and no 

 special organs for the capture of prey, it would be hard put to it 

 to obtain a living. But, no ! It seems to have not the slightest 

 care or concern about the matter, and manages to secure a 

 plentiful supply of provender almost without an effort, and when 

 apparently it is intent upon gaiety and pleasure alone. The fact 

 is, the cavity which forms the Cydippe's stomach perforates its 

 body almost from pole to pole, while the orifice at the lower 

 extremity can be opened or shut at pleasure. All the little 

 fellow has to do, therefore, when in want of food, is to incline its 

 body forward, and keep its mouth wide open the while it dances 

 through the water, by which means a continuous stream of the 

 fluid is caused to pass into the stomach, hurrying along with it, 

 of course, whatever spoil it may chance to contain. In this most 

 convenient manner, the tiny shrimps and other Crustaceans upon 

 which the Cydippe feeds are brought within its power, the mouth 

 closing, of course, the moment a prize enters, and securing it as 

 in a living trap. 



It appears from the observations of Mr. Patterson that these 



" Gay creatures of the element, 

 That in the colours of the rainbow live," 



are endowed with a tenacity of life somewhat remarkable for 



