Genre:

Essay

Subjects:

Botany, Gender, Natural Theology, Design, Natural Economy, Gender, Collecting

People mentioned:

Alphonso Wood , Dr Greville , Anne Pratt , David Landsborough

    An account of 'some of the most remarkable varieties of sea-weeds which are to be readily met with among rocks and pools, and which are often to be seen in the aquarium' (246). Opens by describing the beautiful forms of seaweed and its power to lead the mind towards 'the contemplation of the sublime excellence of Him whose handiwork is spread out in all creation'. Citing Charles Kingsley, believes seaweeds enable a woman to keep 'herself unspotted from the world'. (245) Citing Philip H Gosse's Aquarium, emphasises how seaweeds and insects depend on each other for sustenance and recommends algae for the aquarium as prodigious generators of oxygen. Describes the complex appearance, characteristics, scientific names, and typical location of several other types of seaweed including sea-grass, sea-tang, and Irish moss. Notes the popularity of certain types of seaweeds with the 'lady collector' and distinguishes the olive, green, and red seaweeds.