Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 2 (1898).djvu/239

Rh 24. Plagusia glabra (Dana).—Rather common along the coast of New South Wales, where it is found in small rock-pools and crevices at low tide. It does not often leave the water, and is essentially a vegetarian. Legs and body are far more rotund than the preceding, and not at all setose. I am without doubt that Milne-Edwards' description of Heterograpsus octodentatus has been drawn from the young of this species. There is a great difference between the colour of old and young specimens. Young ones are chiefly of a yellowish tinge, with black spots; while old ones are of a very dark colour, with traces of yellow on the metabranchial regions. They form most handsome objects in the water when the sun is shining on them, showing up their beautiful tints. Port Jackson, New South Wales.

25. Mycteris longicarpus (Latr.).—Commonly designated the "Soldier Crab." It is at once a marvellous and strange sight to see thousands of these crustaceans on the low mud-sand-flats, marching about in regular battalions after the tide has ebbed. Scarcely ever is one to be seen singly but it is scurrying off to meet a company; and here and there will be seen an extra large one, acting no doubt as an officer. Their military appearance is considerably heightened by the colours, which are as follows:—branchiostegites dark blue (these being very prominent); remainder of carapace pale blue; legs yellow, with a red band at each joint. Third pair of maxillipedes very large. Port Jackson; Victoria.

26. Mycteris platycheles (M.-Edw.).—This species is found in very similar situations to the preceding, but has not so great a propensity for travelling in companies. Port Jackson.

27. Hymenosoma varium (Hasw.).—This minute species undergoes a good deal of variation, and inhabits many different situations. Most frequently it is found in short seaweed just below low water, though I have procured it from amongst minute pebbles and from mud. Some specimens are beautifully marked. East coast of Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand.

28. Eupagurus sinuatus (Stimpson).—This is one of the commonest and most beautiful of our Hermit Crabs, frequenting