Dec. 1861.] 



Narrikal or Cochin Mud Bank. 



263 



Though Narrikal owing to its being the nearest place to Cochin 

 is mentioned, the density of the water is greater proceeding towards 

 the Cranganoor river. It becomes very thick and black, and large 

 pieces of flat hard mud begin to be perceived lying on the shore, 

 about one mile north of Narrikal, having been thrown up by the 

 sea. Passing on towards Cranganoor, a large bank of the same 

 substance exists, evidently brought down by the river, and this is 

 one source, from which the mud bay receives a fresh supply. 



Every little stream, and every little gully, is an excellent minia- 

 ture representation, of the larger rivers, bringing down alluvial 

 matter. On making sections of the sand, every 200 yards, north- 

 ward of Narrikal, the same appearances were presented, layers of 

 sand, alternating with layers of alluvial deposit. The larger the 

 stream, the thicker the various layers. No gases arise from the 

 water, nor oily substance (as has been suggested) floats upon it 

 It is simply the action of the sea which prevents the subsidence of 

 the mud, for as soon as placed in a still vessel, it sinks. The shore 

 is sandy, but amongst the sand alluvial deposit exists. The smooth- 

 ness of the sea is well described by Stavorinus. 



It is stated by the fishermen that this part of the coast is very 

 well stocked by the finny tribes, probably owing to the amount 

 of mud, as well as to its sheltered position. It is remarkable to 

 perceive fish of the family Clupeidw of from one to two ounces in 

 weight, jumping out of the water in all directions, on being dis- 

 turbed by the paddles of the fishermen's boats, whilst Brah- 

 minee kites in considerable numbers circle about, watching for or 

 sweeping down on the fish for their prey. 



Small specimens of sea snakes, Hydrophidce, are not uncommon, 

 they are reported not to be venomous. On the sea shore at almost 

 every step little light coloured and active tiger beetles CicindeUdce 

 are perceived jumping about. The mud has an unctuous sticky 

 feeling, and is not gritty unless mixed with sand. It is of a very 

 dark greenish colour, has but a slight odour, and subsides in 

 water., 



Cochin, 5th /September 1861. 



