[CHAPTER X.]
The Fan-Amphitrite.
X.
At the lowest ebb of spring-tide may often be seen protruding above the surface of the beach an object that at a little distance might be mistaken for the twig of a tree, or a decayed and blackened reed. A close examination discloses it to be a smooth, tough tube, apparently composed of dark leather or old gutta-percha, affixed at its lower extremity to some rock or other solid substance.
The pretty Annelid occupying this dark cylinder is the Fan-Amphitrite (A. ventilabrum). Unlike the Terrebella, this animal may really be captured without much difficulty. The first time I made the experiment it was successful. By carefully digging down with chisel, or digits, to the base of the tube, which may be reached in the course of a few minutes, the entire structure, with its living occupant, may be transferred to your extemporaneous tank.
I have an Amphitrite in my aquarium at the present time displaying its richly-tinted tentacula to the sun, which lights them up with unusual beauty.