CEPHALOPODS. 



491 



The two best-known species of this genus inhabit the Mediter- 

 ranean. The one is Eledone moschatus^ known in Italy under the 



Fig. 330. — Octopus macropus (Risso). 



Fig. 331.— Octopus brevipes 

 (d'Orbigny). 



name of Muscardino, from the strong odour of musk which it emits, 

 even after death and desiccation ; the other is Eledone cirrhosus, a 

 small species, bluish-grey on 

 the back, and whitish under 

 the belly. 



The habits of Eledo7ie mos- 

 chatiis have been carefully 

 studied by M. Verany. The 

 able naturalist of Nice pre- 

 served many of these animals 

 during a month, in a great 

 aquarium, noting their habits. 

 When in a state of tranquillity, 

 the Ekdotie clung to the sides 

 of the glass tank in which it 

 was kept. Its head is then 

 inclined forwards, with the 

 body sac hanging behind ; the funnel, turned upwards, presents 

 the orifice between the arms. In this state the animal is yellowish 

 in colour, its eyes dilated, its inspirations regular. But if irritated, 



Fig. 332. — Octopus horridus (d'Orbigny). 



I 



