131 
TAB. LX. 
S P O N G I A cancellata. 
Cancellated, Sponge. 
Class 6. Vermes. Order 4. Zoophyta. 
Gen. Spongia. Spec. cancellata. 
This remarkable Sponge was brought me fresh from 
Brighton by Mr. Fellows, September 17 th 1805. Its can- 
cellated structure distinguishes it at first sight from all 
others that I have seen either specimens or figures of, 
especially as British. Besides this structure in the general 
habit, its fibres are also cancellated or reticulated with a 
horny appearance when magnified. All spongise seem to 
betray more or less the habitation or nidus of some animal, 
in the general structure. The kneed appearance and the 
swelling at the bend of the knee, with the inverted conical 
aperture, give this assurance. It is rather astonishing 
that this circumstance has not been ascertained with any 
certainty. 
In the present laudably inquisitive age there is little doubt 
but it is likely to be found out. 
