SEA-ANEMONES. 129 



tentacula are shorter than the body, and are annulated 

 or variegated with white or red."* 



I must not conclude this chapter without caution- 

 ing the young zoologist that, while collecting Actinise, 

 great care should be taken in detaching them from 

 their position. If possible, it is by far the better 

 plan not to disturb them, but to transport them to 

 the Aquarium on the piece of rock or other substance 

 to which they are affixed. This can in general be 

 accomplished by a smart stroke of the chisel and 

 hammer. Should the attempt fail, an endeavour 

 should be made to insinuate the finger nails under 

 the base, and so to detach them uninjured. This 

 operation is a delicate one, requiring practice, much 

 patience, and no little skill. We are told by one 

 author that a slight tear is of no consequence, since 

 the animal is represented as having the power of soon 

 darning it up. It may be so, but, for my part, I am 

 inclined to be sceptical on the point. 



I never attempt to capture a Daisy-anemone, un- 

 less I first see it fully expanded before commencing 

 operations. I am able, in consequence, to form a 

 pretty probable accurate estimate of its appearance in 

 the Aquarium. 



This condition of its being seen, necessitates, of 

 course, its being covered with water, and, conse- 

 quently, increases the difficulty of making it captive, 

 especially when the animal happens to be seated on a 

 combination of stone and solid rock, or in a crevice, 

 "His. Brit. Zoophytes," page 250. 

 I 



