458 THE AQUARIAN NATURALIST. 



which it sprouted, insomuch that the circulating fluids 

 of the latter penetrate freely into the new offshoot, 

 wherein a very perceptible circulation is apparent. As 

 these marginal tubes extend into the common tegu- 

 mentary tissue wherein the original founder of the 

 colony is imbedded, they divide regularly into several 

 branches, each of which becomes gradually dilated, 

 and soon exhibits in its interior the rudiments of a 

 new animal, in every respect resembling the other 

 Ascidians that inhabit the common mass. Ultimately 

 the communication between the parent and the newly- 

 formed individual becomes obliterated; but still the 

 progeny derived from the same branch, remaining 

 united by their pedicles, present that determinate 

 stellate arrangement which is characteristic of their 

 race. 



It is really wonderful to find, in animals thus appa- 

 rently helpless and incapable, a structure so complex 

 as that presented by these minute beings : doubtless, 

 senseless and apathetic as they seem, they enjoy 

 existence, and have some dim perceptions of the 

 external world ; at least, 



" To taste the freshness of heaven's breath, and feel 

 That light is pleasant, and the sunbeam warm." 



At all events, in their embryo and wandering con- 

 dition, they evidently select localities adapted to the 

 exigences of the future colony, that seems to flourish 

 best in agitated water, 



" On pebbly banks that Neptune laves 

 With measured surges loud and deep, 

 Where the dark cliff bends o'er the waves, 

 And wild the winds of autumn sweep." 



