eooLOGY. 139 



CLASS III. 



Amphibea. REPTILES, 



II HE Amphibeas, or Reptile Class of Animals, are dis- 

 persed over most parts of the globe, but the species are more 

 numerous in warm climates. The forms of many are dis- 

 gusting, their haunts, loathsome and appaling, and the power 

 possessed by numerous species of inflicting wounds, often of 

 fatal effect, is terrific ; notwithstanding which, Man has re- 

 duced divers kinds to contribute to his support, or to add to 

 his comforts or luxuries. 



In interior conformation, many kinds have a near aflinlty 

 to fishes ; which is also observable in the exterior form and 

 habits of several species. Some of the individuals of the 

 first Order, contribute a large supply of food to Mankind, 

 for which purpose they and their eggs are sought after with 

 great avidity ; the shells, or exterior coverings of these 

 Animals, afford that elegant substance for the use of the 



