Introductory report on the natural history of the pearl oyster of Ceylon.

  • Edward Frederick Kelaart
Date:
[1857]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Introductory report on the natural history of the pearl oyster of Ceylon. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by The Royal College of Surgeons of England. The original may be consulted at The Royal College of Surgeons of England.

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    KATUEAL HISTOEY OF THE PEARL OYSTEK OF CEYLON. 1. Having understood that some account of my researches into the Natural History of the Pearl Oysters of Ceylon, is desirable, even at this early period of my labours, I shall endeavour briefly to sketch a Report, that can only be con- sidei'ed in the light of an Introduction to a more extensive and prolonged series of observations; which, if means are afforded me, may be brought to a more speedy conclusion tlian I have any prospect of doing at pi'esent. 2. Before I proceed to detail the results of my researches, since I was commissioned by His Excellency the Governor, in March last, to undertake this desirable investigation, I have to acknowledge the great facilities which the aquarium gives, for the investigation of the natural habits of Molluscs, and other moderately sized freeh and sea water animals. Without glass aquaria and a powerful microscope, I should not perhaps have obtained even that information on the minute anatomy andjiabits of the Pearl Oyster, which is embodied in this Introductory Report. Soon after my appointment, I B