ABOUT THE PRAWN. 



237 



order and sub-order as the shrimp, but to a distinct 

 family, the Palcemonidce ; and is characterized by the long 

 serrated beak which 

 projects from 

 carapace. It 



its 



at- 

 tains a length of 

 from three to four 

 inches, and though 

 not so plentiful as 

 the shrimp, is com- 

 mon on our coasts. 

 It is seldom found, 

 however, in the 

 rock-pools. As an 

 edible, it is more 

 highly esteemed 

 than the shrimp, but is not so universally popular. 

 There are numerous species, all of them very active and 

 very voracious, and all remarkable for the number of 

 times they change their skin ; an operation which practice 

 does not seem to render easier, for, apparently, the work 

 of exuviation is always accompanied with much distress. 

 Prawns found in the warm seas of the south are of large 

 size, and often of brilliant colouring : as, for instance, the 

 Stenopus hispidus. Their habits are sufficiently curious 

 to justify greater attention being paid to them than they 

 have yet received. 



THE PRAWN. 



