162 



DECAPODS. 



FIG. 163. SOLDIER CRAB OCCTTYING AN EMPTY SHELL. 



generally that of a whelk, of proportionate size, into which they 

 insinuate their tail, and retreating within the recesses of their 



adopted abode, obtain a 

 secure retreat, which they 

 drag after them wherever 

 they go, until, by grow- 

 ing larger, they are com- 

 pelled to leave it, in 

 search of a more capa- 

 cious lodging. The won- 

 derful adaptation of all 

 the limbs to a residence 

 in such a dwelling can- 

 not fail to strike the most 

 incurious observer. The 

 cJicla, or large claws, 

 differ remarkably in size, 

 so that when the hermit 

 crab retires into its con- 



FIG. i6 4 .-SoLDiER CKAB REMOVED FROM ITS SHELL. Cealment, the Smaller One 



may be entirely with- 

 drawn, while the larger closes and guards the entrance. The two 



