GOUTY SHRIMP. Squilla chirdgra. 

 MANTIS SHRIMP. Sgto mantis. 



is long and mostly flattened, and the first pair of legs are very large, and used for seizing 

 prey, the last joint folding over serves to answer the purpose of a claw. The carapace is 

 divided into three lobes. The best known of these crustaceans is the MANTIS-SHRIMP, so 

 called from its great resemblance to the insect from which it takes its title. The carapace 

 of the genus Squilla is small but long, and shields the mouth, the antennae, and their 

 appendages. The abdomen is very long and boldly jointed, and the appendages at its 

 extremity are made in a manner that much resembles the fan-like tail of the lobster. 



All the Squillse are voracious, fierce, and active beings, and can strike as sharply with 

 their long claw-feet as can the mantis with the corresponding limbs. From all appearance 

 it seems as if the creatures were in the habit of hiding themselves in dark crevices, and 

 from their dens striking quickly at passing prey. 



This theory is much strengthened by the observations of Dr. Lukis, who kept a 

 Mantis-shrimp alive for a short time. "It sported about, and after a first approach 

 exhibited a boldness rather unexpected. When first alarmed, it sprang backwards with 

 great velocity, after which it placed itself in a menacing attitude which would rather have 

 excited the fear of exposing the hand to it. The prominent appearance of the eyes, their 

 brilliancy and attentive watching, the feeling power of the long antennae, evinced quick 

 apprehension and instinct. I brought a silver teaspoon near them, which was struck out 

 of my hand with a suddenness and force comparable to an electric shock. This blow was 

 effected by the large arms, which were closed and projected in an instant with the quick- 

 ness of lightning." 



