This species was first observed by Mr. Thompson, of Belfast, on the north coast of
Ireland, and afterwards dredged in considerable abundance by Dr. Drummond at Bangor,
county Down. Mr. Thompson published it originally in the fifth volume of the ‘ Annals of
Natural History/ under the name of Bolidia rufibranehialis, to which species most of the
Eolides with red branchiae were at that time referred ; but, on a subsequent examination of the
specimens in spirits, together with the accurate description of Dr. Drummond, kindly forwarded
to us by Mr. Thompson, we were convinced that it was a distinct species, and the latter
gentleman consequently gave it the name of Drummondi, in his Report of the Fauna of Ireland
furnished to the British Association. We have since met with it plentifully on the west coast
of Scotland, where it appears to be the most common species, spawning freely in the months
of May and June at and below half-tide level. The spawn is attached to the under side of
stones, and consists of three or four volutions^ beautifully disposed in angular waved lines,
assuming the appearance of a regular Greek pattern. The ova lie six or eight abreast.
Bolts Drummondi is one of the largest British species of the section to 'which it belongs,
and is much broader in proportion to its length than most of its allies. It is very active, and
particularly light and buoyant, detaching itself from its hold on the slightest disturbance, and
erecting its papillae in a very graceful manner; these it has the power of extending to a
great length when annoyed.
Like the rest of its tribe* Bolts Drummondi is extremely voracious, devouring the smaller
species that come in its way without mercy, nor sparing even its own weaker brethren. Having
put three individuals of this species into a glass of sea-water together one evening, the next
morning we found the two stronger ones finishing a repast upon their unfortunate companion,
the head and jaws of which only remained to tell the tale.
An Bolts we found in Torbay, and described in the 4 Annals of Natural History’ under
the name of B. tenuibranchialis, we are now inclined t<? think may have been a variety of
B. Drummondi in a sickly state. Our Bolis curta also,' founded upon a single specimen from
Cullercoats, and which we have since met with sparingly at Scarborough, may also possibly
turn out to be an immature variety of this species.
Figs. 1, 2, 3. Eolis Drummondi, different views.
4. Two of the branchiae more highly magnified.
5. A tentacle,, also very highly magnified.
6. The spawn.
7. A portion of the same more highly magnified.