TORPEDO

(Lat. torpedo, numbne .) A genus of Cartilaginous fishes separated from the Haiw of Luuneus on account of the circular form of the body, and; ally from the presence nf the electrical organs on which that form of the body mainlv depends. Violent shocks are experienced on touching the living and active torpedo. It is probable that it exerts its electrifying or benumbing powers in order to secure its prey; and it is certain that tin power is employed in defending itself against a ailants, to whose a aults It would be otherwise more exposed than are the ordinary rays; for the torpedo has a smooth skin, and Is not defended by the spiny tubercles, or barbed and pointed bony weapons, with which the non-electric ra provided. [s. 1267]