10 
ANIMAL LIFE IN THE CAVE. 
like fibres are often produced. Very commonly, however, the 
crystals begin to form when a small nodule of the iron ore is ex- 
posed at the surface ; the parts first formed become attached to 
the surface around the edges, and as the chemical action proceeds 
towards the centre of the nodules successive leaf-like layers are 
thrown out, and the rosette form is the result. Along lines of 
fracture in the surface of the rock, the crystals are curved in op- 
posite directions. 
The wreaths and other figures formed by the chains of the ro- 
settes, may be caused by the chemical action described taking place 
around the edges of large masses or concretions of the iron ore. 
These crystalline forms occur only in the diyer parts of the 
cave. Where there is more moisture, as in the ‘ Snow-ball room,’ 
the gypsum merely forms white, rounded concretions, originating 
from nodules of the iron ore on the roof and sides of the cave.’ ” 
With these general remarks on the cave we give a brief account 
of its interesting fauna,* comprising representatives of the Fishes, 
Insects, and Crustaceans. No Mollnsks nor Radiates have as yet 
been discovered, but the lower forms of life have been detected 
by Tellkampf, who collected several species belonging to the gen- 
era Monas^ Chilomonas^ and (?) Chilodon. 
*In the following pages it will he noticed that the authors have expressed widely 
different views as to the origin of the peculiar foi-ms of suhteiranean animals. 
