(_Amphitrite magnifica_.)
This beautiful species is perhaps the largest of the whole tribe as
yet discovered. It is found in various parts of the coast of Jamaica,
adhering to, or rather embedded in, the rocks. Its irritability is
exceedingly great, and on being approached it instantly retreats into
its elastic tube; this tube is of a leathery consistence, unlike that
of the Serpula. Specimens of this elegant species can only be obtained
by breaking off such parts of the stone as contain them. These, being
put into tubs of sea-water, may be kept for months in perfect health.
That part of the body which is so beautifully spread out like an
umbrella, consists of the _branchiæ_ or organs of breathing; these are
of a yellowish colour, beautifully marked with pink. The Amphitrite,
although perhaps it never entirely leaves its tube, is not attached to
it, and frequently draws out nearly the whole of its body.
[Illustration: _Amphitrite magnifica._]
_ORDER ANNULATA ANTENNATA_,
(_Annulose Animals possessing Antennæ_.)