48 



VIEWS OF THE MICROSCOPIC) WORLD. 

 Fig. 70. Fig. 69. 



-^- t<e 



Fig. 71. 



Fig. 72. 



ish nue, somewhat conical in shape ; and its surface is composed of a numerous 

 collection of small, regularly formed bodies, like beads ; from which resemblance 

 this species of Melicerta derives its name. These bodies are arranged in circular 

 rows, as seen in the figures, and present a very beautiful appearance. The en- 

 closing case in the young Melicerta is at first clear and pellucid like crystal ; but 

 as it gradually enlarges rings of beads commence forming around it, until at 

 last the whole surface becomes entirely covered with them. 



The appearance of the Melicerta, at an early stage of its existence, is exhibited in 

 figure 71, where the tubes of respiration are shown at aa ; the delicate transpa- 

 rent case at b b ; and the first formed circles of beads at c c. The bead-shaped 

 bodies are deposited by the animalcule itself, and are cemented together by a 

 glutinous matter which exudes from its body and hardens by exposure to water. 



