CRAB SPIDER: - 573 
Beginning with the true Spiders, we find that their palpi (2. the jointed 
antennz-like organs that project from the cephalothorax) are more or less 
thread-like, and in the males are swollen at the extremity into a remarkable 
structure, as indicative of the sex as is the beard of man, the curled tail- 
feathers of the drake, and the gorgeous train of the peacock. In the differ- 
ent genera, these palpi are differently formed, and afford valuable indications 
for systematic zoologists. ; 
In these strange creatures, the mandibles are furnisbed with a curved claw 
perforated at the extremity, sometimes like the pvison-fang of a venomous 
snake, and used for a similar purpose. A gland furnishes a secretion which is 
forced through these organs, and is injected into any object that may be 
wounded by the sharp claw. The fluid which is secreted for the service of 
the fangs is nearly colourless, and is found to possess most of the propertics 
that exist in the venom of the rattlesnake or viper. 
They all spin those remarkable nets which we popularly call “ webs,” and 
which differ wonderfully in the various species. These webs are, in very 
many instances, employed as traps wherein may be caught the prey on which 
the Spider feeds, but in other cases are only used as houses wherein the 
CRAB-SPIDER, OR MATOUTOU.—(A@yzale cancerides.) 
creature can reside. Some of the uses to which these wonderful productions 
are put, as well as some details of their structure, will presently be mentioned. 
WE now pass to some typical species of these curious animals. 
The Spiders belonging to the family of Mygalidz may at once be known by 
the shape of their mandibles and the terrible claws which proceed from them. 
In the greater number of Spiders the claws are set horizontally, but in the 
Mygalidz they are bent downwards, and strike the prey much as a lion 
clutches at his victim with his curved talons. 
THE GREAT CRAB SPIDER belongs to the typical genus of this family, and 
is one of the formidable Arachnida that prey upon young birds and othcr 
small vertebrates, instead of limiting themselves to the insects, and similar 
beings, which constitute the food of the generality of the Spider race. 
