NOTES FOE STUDY. 
15 
water, as the little shells are apt to fall to the 
bottom. The gaud of little coves should be 
searched for small shells which the waves have 
brought in. Some fine mollusks live on the help, 
outside the low water mark ; these may be 
gathered when the sun shines, with the aid of a 
boat. The stomachs of large fishes often yield 
rich treasures of deep sea shells, and help us gain 
some knowledge of those depths which can only 
be reached by a dredge. 
In collecting mollusks, carefully note their 
habitat ; whether they live on rocks, weeds, sand 
or mud, also in what depth of water. Learn if 
possible their habits and the nature of their food. 
It is always well to put some of the living speci- 
mens into a pan or jar of sea water, and watch 
their movements. Note carefully, in collections, 
whether the shell resembles in form or color the 
objects near which it is found. It has been ob- 
served by some naturalists that the imitative col- 
oring of a shell apparently has much to do with its 
chances of remaining unnoticed, and therefore of 
preserving its existence. If this be true to a con- 
siderable extent, it may give many hints as to 
the probable places in which to find certain spe- 
cies, 
Mollusks may be preserved in alcohol entire, 
but generally the shell is the only part which is 
kept for the cabinet. To remove the soft parts 
is an undesirable, but necessary work. It is best 
done by placing the shells in boiling water for a 
few minutes, and then thowing them into cold 
water to cool and harden. The boiling water ah 
