1 
 
 No. 
 
BiOLOGt 
 
 LIBRAfti 
 
 6 
 


 
Uf* 
 
PRIZE ESSAY 
 
 ON THE 
 
 NATURAL AND ECONOMICAL HISTORY OF 
 THE FISHES, MARINE, FLUVIATILE, AND 
 LACUSTRINE, OF THE RIVER DISTRICT OF 
 THE FIRTH OF FORTH.* 
 
 BY 
 
 RICHARD PARNELL, M. D., F. R. S. K 
 Tl 
 
 DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 IN connection with the study of the species in Natural His- 
 tory which belong to any particular district of land and 
 water, some consideration is due to the ascertainable circum- 
 stances by which its capabilities, as an abode of animated 
 nature, can be determined. On this account, a short notice 
 of the general character of the river Forth and its estuary, 
 cannot be out of place as a preliminary to a paper on the 
 Fishes to be found there. A notice of this kind must ne- 
 cessarily be imperfect, not less owing to the brief space 
 that can be devoted to it, than to the investigation of the 
 facts .becoming difficult, nearly in proportion to their inte- 
 rest and immediate bearing on the subject. And, indeed, 
 all that I can promise under this head is, rather to indicate 
 
 * The Werneiian Natural History Society's honorary Premium of a 
 gold medal, value Ten Sovereigns, was adjudged to Dr Parnell for this essay, 
 1837. 
 
 VOL. VII. L 
 
 357883 
 
: *? 
 
 I I'. i fcC K1PIIOX OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 than to investigate some of the most important points that 
 deserve to be inquired into. 
 
 The physical geography of the German Ocean, of which 
 the Firth of Forth is so large an estuary, should not be 
 omitted in an extended investigation of such a kind ; the 
 shallow bottom of that sea, the peculiarity of its tides, 
 and the immense banks that traverse it, one of which juts 
 out from the entrance of the Firth of Forth to a distance 
 of one hundred miles north-eastward, cannot but exert a 
 decided influence on the determination of the kinds of 
 Fishes that frequent its estuaries. A comparison also be- 
 tween the physical geography and natural productions of 
 this Firth, with those of the other estuaries of the same sea ? 
 such as the Firth of Tay, the Humber, and the Wash, 
 would prove a source of interesting investigation. 
 
 But to proceed to the Firth of Forth itself, which is more 
 than enough for my limits at present. The breadth of this 
 estuary, at its junction with the ocean, as measured from St 
 Abb's Head on the south side, to Fifeness on the north, 
 does not fall short of thirty-five or forty miles : it contracts 
 rapidly from these points, so that, between Elie Point and 
 Yellow Craig, though no more than ten miles above Fifeness, 
 and owing to the trending eastward of the southern border 
 not less than twenty-five miles of St Abb's Head, the breadth 
 does not exceed seven miles. From there it expands into a 
 wide basin, the greatest extent of which, between Mussel- 
 burgh and Largo, is not much short of twenty miles ; while 
 its medium breadth, as between Guillon Point and Buck- 
 haven, is about twelve miles in a straight line. Above, it 
 contracts again to nine miles, #nd proceeds, gradually be- 
 
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 coming narrower, through a course of nine or ten miles to 
 Queensferry, where it is about two miles across. Here it ex- 
 pands again in a beautiful basin, varying in width from 
 three to four miles, through an extent of thirteen or four- 
 teen miles ; above this it assumes more of the character of 
 a river, and here, therefore, the estuary may be said to ter- 
 minate. 
 
 The Islands of the Firth are important in its physical geo- 
 graphy, as exerting an important influence on its currents, 
 and thereby on the depositions from the water at the bottom, 
 and on its encroachments on its banks. The Bass, distin- 
 guished as the abode of the Gannet (&m&-Bassand) ; and the 
 May, on which a light-house is situated, are the most conspi- 
 cuous near its junction with the ocean. Higher up, Inchkeith 
 occupies the middle space near the upper contraction of its 
 greatest basin, and determines, by its influence on the tide, 
 the banks, channels, and bays, through an extent of several 
 miles. Between this island and Queensferry, Cramond 
 Island, Inch Mickery, and Inchcolme, intersect the Firth 
 nearly in a line across, being at the distance of three or four 
 miles from Queensferry. Inchgarvey, the highest island that 
 deserves notice, occupies the middle of the contraction be- 
 tween North and South Queensferry. 
 
 The Depth of the Forth, below the Isle of May, is up- 
 wards of thirty fathoms, declining to fourteen or fifteen 
 fathoms, as the northern or southern border is approached. 
 In the first contraction, between Elie point and Yellow 
 Craig, the greatest depth is about twenty-eight fathoms ; 
 from which, in the middle of the channel up to Inchkeith ? 
 
KM- DESCRIPTION OF THK FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the depth varies to sixteen or seventeen fathoms. From 
 Inchkeith a great bank, termed the Middle Bank, extend* 
 towards Hound Point : on the north of this bank runs a 
 deep channel, named the North Channel, the depth of which 
 varies from sixteen to twenty-five fathoms in its direct 
 course. On the south side, in the neighbourhood of Leith,. 
 numerous rocks project, between which and the middle 
 bank there is a channel, termed the South Channel or Leith 
 Roads, which varies from three to sixteen fathoms in depth. 
 Between South Queensferry and Inchgarvey the greatest 
 depth is about nine fathoms ; but between that island and 
 North Queensferry the depth increases to thirty-seven fa- 
 thoms, which is the greatest depth observed above the Isle 
 of May. At a short distance above this point, the depth 
 is still twenty-one fathoms ; from thence the basin gradual- 
 ly shallows upwards. 
 
 Numerous streams pour themselves into these basins of 
 the Firth, among the principal of which are the Tyne, the 
 Esk, the Leith, the Almond, and Avon, on the south side ; 
 while the Leven, arising from Lochleven, is the only con- 
 siderable stream which joins it on the north side. 
 
 Trie Forth itself, one of the largest rivers in Scotland, 
 arises from the north side of ^Benlomond : it is first called 
 the Avendow or the Black River, and receives the name of 
 Forth on entering the parish of Port : it then expands into a 
 lake (Lochard),and flows through the vale to Stirling. Here 
 it is augmented by the addition of the Teith and the Allan, 
 and, after taking a winding course of twenty. four miles, 
 finishes by joining with the termination of the estuary. 
 
 The first part of the course of the river Forth is through 
 
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 1G5 
 
 deep clay ; it then takes its course through a country con- 
 taining extensive beds of coal, limestone, and ironstone, so 
 that, under the lowest part of the river and the highest ba- 
 sin of the Firth, coal is dug on both sides from beneath the 
 channel. 
 
 Thick beds of alluvial clay and copious depositions of 
 sand are found on both sides of the Firth, wherever the so- 
 lid rock does not appear. Between Musselburgh and Guil- 
 lon Point, numerous patches of turfy beach, over which the 
 tide rises, are met with. The Firth appears, on account of 
 the large extensive sand-beds, and the immense quantity of 
 algae which it contains, to be favourable for the deposition 
 of the spawn of fishes. How far the Firth is fitted to be a 
 receptacle for fishes, by the kinds of food favourable to their 
 increase which it supplies, is a question that can be but im- 
 perfectly answered at present. Molluscous animals, which 
 certainly constitute the chief food of fishes, next at least 
 to their own tribe, abound in the Firth ; but, as yet, little 
 is known as to the comparative favour in which the several 
 species of these are held among fishes, nor have we any 
 means of ascertaining the relative proportions in which the 
 different molluscous animals found in it abound. 
 
 As might be anticipated, from the extent and irregulari- 
 ties of this estuary, the tide derived from the German Ocean 
 exhibits some anomalies. The tide flows to a mile from 
 Stirling Bridge, a distance of near eighty miles from the 
 ocean in a straight line. It is there interrupted by a rock 
 which crosses the river, and at stream tides the rise on that 
 rock is five feet. The regular flow and ebb of the tide is 
 twice in twenty-four hours, but both run about two hours 
 longer in the middle of the channel than along the shore. 
 
106 DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 Above Queensferry some singular irregularities, termed 
 Leakies, occur. Before high-water the tide begins to ebb, 
 then, after a time, turns and continues to flow till high 
 water ; also before low water the tide begins to flow, then 
 turns and ebbs till low water. This has been ascribed to 
 the contraction at Queensferry; enough of water cannot 
 in consequence flow in to supply the level places of the 
 shore ; the tide therefore flows back from the river to serve 
 this purpose. The velocity of the tide varies in different 
 parts of the Firth, and this variation is connected with the 
 place of the moon and the force of the winds. 
 
( 107 
 
 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH AND 
 TRIBUTARIES. 
 
 CLASS PISCES. 
 
 Vertebrated animals with red blood respiring by gills or 
 branchiae, and moving in water by the aid of fins. 
 
 SUB-CLASS I. PISCES OSSEI. 
 
 Bones fibrous ; cranium divided by distinct sutures, 
 branchiae free, membrane furnished with rays, 
 
 ORDER I ACANTHOPTERYGII. 
 
 First portion of the dorsal-fin, or the entire first dorsal, 
 when two are present, with simple spinous rays ; first ray 
 of the anal fin always spinous, and generally the first ray 
 of the ventrals. 
 
 FAMILY I. PERCID J5. Operculum, or preoperculum, 
 denticulated or spiny ; scales generally ciliated ; jaws, front 
 of the vomer, and almost always the palatine bones, furnish- 
 ed with teeth. 
 
 GENUS PERCA. Dorsal-fins two ; preoperculum notch- 
 ed below ; operculum ending in a flattened point ; tongue 
 smooth, without teeth. 
 
168 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 PERCA FLUVIATILIS.* THE PERCH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Back dusky green ; sides with dusky bands. 
 
 Description. From a specimen nine inches in length. Body ra- 
 ther deep ; back arched; sides compressed, marked with about six dark 
 brown bands passing from above downwards. Colour above the la- 
 teral line dusky green, below it rather lighter, with a tinge of red ; 
 belly white ; dorsals and pectorals light brown ; anal of a rich scar- 
 let, as well as the ventral and caudal fins ; posterior portion of the 
 first dorsal occasionally black ; irides bright yellow. Teeth small 
 and fine in both jaws, as well as on the vomer, palatines, and pha- 
 ryngeals. First dorsal fin commencing over the posterior half of the 
 operculum, and ending within a short space of the origin of the se- 
 cond dorsal ; all its spines sharp and stout ; the third and fourth the 
 longest ; the remainder gradually decreasing. Second dorsal fin soft 
 and flexible, with each ray, except the first, branched at the summit. 
 Anal fin commencing in a line under the fourth ray of the second 
 dorsal, and terminating under the last ray but three of the same fin ; 
 first two rays spinous, shorter than the third, which is soft and flexi- 
 ble, as well as the remaining rays in that fin. Pectoral fin taking 
 its origin in a line under the second ray of the first dorsal, and ter- 
 minating in a line under the ninth or tenth ray of the same fin. Anal 
 fin placed rather behind the origin of the pectorals ; first two rays 
 spinous, much shorter than the others, which are branched and flexi- 
 ble. Tail forked ; the middle ray rather more than half as long as 
 the longest ray in the same fin. Margin of the preoperculum finely 
 serrated, the teeth being stronger on the lower border ; operculum 
 triangular, terminating behind in a long flattened point. Body co- 
 vered with hard scales, strongly ciliated at their free margins, render- 
 ing a roughness to the surface of the fish when the hand is passed 
 from tail to head. Lateral line commencing over the operculum, tak- 
 ing a course nearly parallel with the line of the dorsal curve, and 
 ending at the base of the middle caudal rays. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 14; 2dD. 16; P. 14; A. 10 ; C. 17; V. 6. 
 
 The only British fish it is likely to be mistaken for is 
 the Bass, the tongue of which is covered with teeth ; where- 
 as that of the Perch is perfectly smooth. 
 
 * Percafluviatilis. Cuvier et Valenciennes, Hist. Nat. des Poiss Yar- 
 
 yell, Brit. Fishes Pennant, Brit. Zool Donovan, Brit. Fishes. Fleming, 
 Brit. Animals Linnaeus, Syst. Nat Bloch, Ichth Jenyns, Brit. Verte- 
 brate Animals. 
 
THE PERCH. 169 
 
 According to the arrangement of Baron Cuvier, Britain 
 possesses but one species of the genus Perca, universally 
 known by the name of Common Perch. In general it is a 
 gregarious fish, found inhabiting most of the lakes in Scot- 
 land, as well as those in England and Ireland. According 
 to Cuvier, it occurs over the whole of the temperate parts 
 of Europe, as well as in most of the northern districts of 
 Asia. In the neighbourhood of Edinburgh it is of common 
 occurrence, particularly in the Union Canal, Duddingston 
 Loch, and Lochend. It is met with in some of the rivers 
 leading into the Forth, and, on some few occasions, speci- 
 mens have been taken in the estuary itself; but when 
 found in this latter situation, or in brackish water, it has 
 been carried down, through the medium of high floods, from 
 some distant pond. Pallas, it is said, found perch in the 
 Caspian Sea. 
 
 The habits of the perch most persons are acquainted with. 
 It prefers deep lochs or canals, or those slow-running wa- 
 ters, where the banks are shaded and covered with weeds, 
 in preference to the more rapid running rivers, so favour- 
 able to the habits of most of the fresh-water fishes. Perch, 
 on some occasions, attain to a large size. Bloch alludes to 
 one, the head of which alone measured twelve inches in 
 length. Pennant speaks of one taken in the Serpentine 
 River, in Hyde Park, which weighed nine pounds. Colonel 
 Montagu saw a perch of eight pounds weight taken in the 
 Avon, in Wiltshire, by a line baited with a roach. In 
 Loch Lomond it is not unfrequently taken of the weight 
 of five pounds, but beyond that it is seldom met with. 
 
 The spawning season of the perch is about the end of April, 
 when the ova, as noticed by Aristotle, are united together by 
 a viscid matter in lengthened strings. Bloch has observed 
 
170 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the same appearance while a fish was depositing its spawn 
 in a vessel kept in a room. The number of eggs that are 
 sometimes found in an ordinary-sized perch, is said to 
 amount to nearly a million. The principal food is insects, 
 worms, and small fishes. It is very tenacious of life, and 
 will live several hours after it has been taken from the 
 water. As an article of food it is very wholesome if in 
 season, when the flesh is white, firm, and well -flavoured. 
 It is out of condition in April, May, and June. 
 
 GENUS LABRAX. Dorsal fins two ; scaly operculum 
 terminating behind in two spines ; body covered with hard 
 scales ; tongue rough with teeth ; preoperculum toothed. 
 
 LABRAX LUPUS.* THE BASS. 
 
 Specific Characters. Operculum with a dusky spot; ventrals 
 whitish. 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length. Body 
 more elongated than that of the perch ; colour of the back dusky 
 grey; sides rather lighter; belly silvery- white ; gill-covers tinged 
 with yellow ; operculum with a large dark spot on its upper and 
 posterior border ; dorsal, caudal, and pectoral fins dusky ; ventrals 
 whitish. First dorsal fin commencing over the middle of the pecto- 
 rals, and ending in a line a little anterior to the vent; all the spines 
 stout, taking a slight curve backwards ; the first and last ray of 
 equal length ; the third, fourth, and fifth, the longest. Second dor- 
 sal fin commencing immediately behind the termination of the first ; 
 all the rays soft and flexible, except the first, which is sharp and 
 spiny ; the anterior rays longer than the terminating ones. Anal fin 
 a little smaller than the second dorsal, and placed rathernearer the tail. 
 Ventral fins commencing behind the origin of the pectorals. Tail lu- 
 nated when expanded, twice and a half the length of the middle ray. 
 Scales rather large and hard ; ciliated at their free margins ; suboper- 
 culum without serratures; preoperculum notched below, and serrated 
 on its posterior edge ; operculum ending in two points directed 
 backwards ; body, cheeks, operculum, and preoperculum, covered 
 
 * Labrax lupus, Cuv., Yar. Perca tabrax, Lin., Pen., Flem., Don. 
 Bass, Sea Perch. 
 
THF BASS. 171 
 
 with adherent scales. Lateral line taking 1 the curve of the back to 
 the commencement of the last dorsal fin, from thence straight to the 
 tail ; eyes moderate, placed half way between the point of the snout 
 and the posterior margin of the preoperculum : under jaw longest 
 when the mouth is opened half *an inch. Teeth small and fine in 
 both jaws, as well as on the vomer, palatines, and tongue ; branchio- 
 stegous rays seven. The young fish, as stated by most authors, is 
 marked above the lateral line with dark spots. Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 9 ; 2d D. 14 ; A. 14 ; C. 17 ; P. 17 ; V. 6 ; Vertebrae 26. 
 
 This fish differs from the S err anus and the Ruffe, in hav- 
 ing two dorsal fins ; and from the Perch by the tongue be- 
 ing furnished with teeth. 
 
 The Bass sometimes attains the weight of fifteen, and, 
 according to Duhamel, even of thirty pounds. It was 
 known to the ancients, who, on account of its strength, 
 activity, and voraciousness, gave it the appropriate name of 
 Lupus. In the Mediterranean it is of common occurrence, 
 where it is said to increase to a much larger size than on 
 our coasts. It does not appear to exist in so great abun- 
 dance on the coasts of Scotland as on those of England : 
 now and then it makes its appearance in the Firth. of Forth, 
 more particularly in the months of July and August, when 
 it is taken with lines on rocky parts, and occasionally in the 
 salmon nets near Queensferry. The Bass, in general, ap- 
 pears to feed on small crustaceous animals. In the stomach 
 of a specimen which I examined were found several speci- 
 mens of Astacus linearis, and two of the Cancer longicor- 
 nis 9 together with part of a Blennius gtmnellus. Mr Yar- 
 rell states, on the authority of Mr Couch, that it is parti- 
 cularly fond of the Onisci which are washed from the rocks 
 in stormy weather, when these fish are seen in pursuit of 
 them. Dr Neill took from the stomach of one, the fry of 
 the sand-launce, and two young specimens of the father- 
 lasher.* The flesh of this fish is firm and well-flavoured, 
 * Wemerian Memoirs, vol. i. 
 
172 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 particularly in the autumn months, and is said to be greatly 
 improved when boiled in salt-water. " Several have been 
 retained with success in Mr Arnold's fresh-water lake, in 
 Guernsey, and Dr M'Culloch-has vouched for the superio- 
 rity of the flavour obtained by the change."* The Bass is 
 brought occasionally to the Edinburgh market, and sold at 
 a low rate. 
 
 GENUS TRACH&US.T\rst dorsal fin very short, the 
 second very long ; operculum furnished with a strong sharp 
 spine directed backwards ; preoperculum notched below. 
 
 TRACHINUS VIPEUA.-J- THE SiiNG-FisH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Second dorsal-fin with twenty-four rays ; no 
 spine before the eye. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches long. Body rather 
 elongated ; sides compressed, marked by a number of oblique lines 
 forming an angle below the lateral line ; back nearly straight ; abdo- 
 minal line slightly convex. Colour of the back, as far as a little be- 
 low the lateral line, reddish-grey ; sides and belly silvery-white ; 
 first dorsal-fin black ; second dorsal and pectorals of the same colour 
 as the back ; anal and ventrals white ; caudal-fin even at the extre- 
 mity, and margined with black.;}] (Mr Jenyns says there is a black 
 spot at the extremity of the caudal fin.) Scales small, thin, and en- 
 tire ; cheeks and operculum without scales ; eyes moderate, with- 
 out spines in front, situated high on the head, placed nearer the point 
 of the jaw than to the posterior margin of the preoperculum ; oper- 
 culum with a long sharp spine directing backwards over the shoul- 
 der ; lateral line nearly straight throughout its course ; lower jaw 
 longest, sloping greatly upwards. Teeth small and fine on the 
 maxillaries, vomer, palatines and pharyngeans. First dorsal fin com- 
 mencing over the base of the pectorals, and ending in a line with 
 the second ray of the anal ; all its spines simple and very sharp, 
 
 * Yarreirs British Fishes. 
 
 f Trachinus vipera, Cuv. Yar. Jen. ; T. draco, Pen. Flem. Donov. Sting- 
 Fish, Otter-Pike, Lesser- Weever, Adder-Pile, Black-fin. 
 
 t Dr Fleming states, in his work on British Animals, that the tail is 
 rounded, and that there are two spines in front of the eyes. 
 
THE STING-FISH. 173 
 
 three first nearly of equal length ; second dorsal-fin commencing close 
 behind the first, and ending near the tail, over the last ray but three 
 of the anal fin ; rays soft and flexible, branched at the summit, gra- 
 dually decreasing in height from the fifth ; ventral- fins placed before 
 the pectorals, the tips of the rays reaching as far as the vent ; num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 6 ; 2d D. 24 ; P. 15 ; V. 6 j A. 25 ; C. 12. 
 
 It is distinguished from the Great Weever, T. draco, the 
 only other British species in this genus, by having no 
 spine before the eyes, and in the second dorsal fin being 
 composed of twenty-four rays ; whereas the T. draco has a 
 strong hooked spine before each eye, and thirty rays on the 
 second dorsal fin. 
 
 This fish is of common occurrence on the south western 
 shores of Scotland, and more particularly in the Sol way 
 Firth, than on any other part of the British coast. I have 
 seen it captured occasionally on the sand banks offExmouth, 
 on the coast of Devon, and more frequently at Brixham while 
 drawing the drag-net. Mr Yarrell says it occurs in the bays 
 of Dublin and Belfast. It is met with at the mouth of 
 the Tay, but very seldom seen in the Firth of Forth. In 
 the year 1831, Mr Stark took specimens on the sands of 
 Portobello. It has been observed once in the sands above 
 Queensferry ; and in 1834, in the montli of August, a very 
 fine specimen six and a half inches long was sent me from 
 Musselburgh, where it was taken with a hook baited for 
 flounders. Since then two other instances of its capture 
 have occurred from the same quarter. It approaches the 
 shores only in the warm summer months, when it is found 
 inhabiting water from two to three feet deep. During the 
 day it conceals itself in the sands, leaving only its nose and 
 eyes above the soil uncovered ; when approached, it imme- 
 diately erects the first dorsal-fin, and if trod on (as frequent- 
 ly happens while persons are bathing), its sharp spines 
 
1 74 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 inflict a severe and painful wound, causing the part affect- 
 ed to swell, and become almost immediately of a dark 
 brown appearance, which remains for five or six hours and 
 then gradually subsides. The best application for a wound 
 of this description is hot water, which relieves the pain 
 and diminishes the swelling in the space of half an hour. 
 The most common size of this fish is from four to four and 
 a half inches in length. Dr Fleming and other au- 
 thors state that it grows to the length of a foot ; while 
 the oldest fishermen on the Solway Firth never saw or 
 heard of one more than six inches long. As an article of 
 food it is never made use of. It feeds on crustaceous ani- 
 mals and young gobies, and deposits its spawn about the 
 middle of spring. 
 
 FAMILY II. LORICATL Suborbital bone extending 
 over the cheek, and articulating behind with the preopercu- 
 lum ; head mailed, or otherwise armed. 
 
 GENUS TRIGLA. Dorsal fins two ; body scaly ; three 
 detached rays under the base of the pectorals. 
 
 TRIGLA CUCOLUS.* THE RED GURNARD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Lateral line crossed throughout its length by 
 lines not reaching below the middle of the sides. (See Plate XVIII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen fourteen inches in length. Body 
 rather elongated; sides rounded, particularly near the caudal ex- 
 tremity; back nearly straight; head of a square form, falling ob- 
 liquely from the orbit to the point of the snout. Colour of the 
 head, sides, back, dorsal and caudal fins, rose-red ; belly, ven- 
 tral, and anal fins, dull white, more or less tinged with red ; pec- 
 torals bluish ; scales of moderate size, ciliated at their free mar- 
 gins, rendering the body rough to the touch ; cheeks and upper 
 
 Triffla cuculus, Lin. Cuv. ; T. pini, Bloch. Jen. ; T. lineata, Mont. 
 Flem. Red Gurnard, Red Crooner, Cuckoo Gurnard. 
 
THE RED GURNARD. 175 
 
 part of the head rough,, without scales ; eyes large, placed high on 
 the head ; four spines on the upper and front part of each orbit ; 
 operculum with two sharp spines on the upper and posterior border ; 
 scapular spines extending back as far as in a line under the third 
 dorsal ray ; lateral line commencing over .the upper part of the 
 operculum, taking a straight course to the base of the tail where it 
 divides into two, and extends down the caudal fin, crossed through- 
 out its length with lines half an inch long, placed one-eighth of an 
 inch apart ; upper jaw longest. Teeth small and fine in both jaws, 
 and on front of the vomer ; dorsal ridge strongly toothed. First 
 dorsal fin commences over the base of the pectorals and ends in 
 a line over a little in front of the vent; all its spines simple; the 
 second the longest, the remainder gradually decreasing ; second 
 dorsal fin beginning a little behind the first, and ending over the last 
 ray of the anal ; all its rays, except the first, branched at their sum- 
 mits; anal fin corresponding with the last dorsal, but somewhat 
 shorter ; pectorals reaching as far as the first ray of the anal ; ven- 
 trals commencing close under the base of the pectorals, the tips of 
 the rays reaching a little anterior to the vent ; three detached rays 
 under the base of each pectoral fin, the last ray the longest ; tail lu- 
 nated. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 9; 2d D. 18; P. 11; C. 12; A. 17; V. 6. Branchial 
 rays 7. 
 
 The principal character which distinguishes this species 
 from the rest of the gurnards is the form of the scale, which 
 crosses the lateral line. (See Plate XVIII.) There is, how- 
 ever, a British species (T. lineata) that has not, as yet, 
 been noticed on the Scottish coast, in which the lateral line 
 is also crossed by lines, but these lines, instead of reaching 
 only a short way down the sides, pass round as far as the 
 anal fin. (See Plate XIX.) 
 
 The Red Gurnard occurs, on the Devonshire coast, in 
 great numbers ; and, on some occasions, thousands of them 
 may be seen exposed for sale daily, especially in those small 
 towns where the trawl-boat fishing is carried on. Mr Yar- 
 rell states that u it is very common in Ireland, and is taken 
 from Waterford on the south up the eastern shore to Lon- 
 donderry in the north, but seldom found larger than twelve 
 
176 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 or fourteen inches in length." On tl^e east coast of Scot- 
 land it is seldom seen in any numbers. In the Firth of 
 Forth a few are taken occasionally with lines during the sum - 
 mer months, and a solitary specimen may sometimes be 
 found entangled in the salmon nets at the lower part of the 
 Firth. The flesh is firm and well flavoured, and held in 
 high estimation as food. It spawns about the month of 
 June, and continues out of season until August; from 
 October till March it is in the greatest perfection for the 
 table. It feeds principally on Crustacea. 
 
 TRIGLA HIRUNDO.* THE SAI-PHIRINE GURNARD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Lateral line plain and smooth ; scales entire 
 at their free margins, not ciliated ; pectorals reaching beyond the se- 
 cond ray of the anal. (See PI. XX.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length. Body rather 
 elongated and rounded, tapering from the head to the base of the 
 tail ; head of a square form, falling obliquely from the forehead to the 
 end of the nose. Colour of the head, sides, and back, brownish-red, 
 tinged with green ; pectorals on their inner surface bluish-green, 
 edged and spotted with bright blue ; on their outer surface brownish- 
 red ; dorsal and caudal fins reddish; ventrals, anal, and abdomen, 
 whitish. Scales rather small, oval, and entire j head rough ; cheeks 
 granulated, radiating from different centres ; eyes large, placed high 
 on the head j two spines on the upper and anterior edge of each or- 
 bit ; operculum with two short spines on the upper and posterior 
 border ; scapular spines extending a short way back, over the base of 
 the pectorals. Lateral line straight, perfectly smooth, and slightly 
 elevated, commencing over the base of the scapular spine, taking a 
 straight course to the base of the tail, where it bifurcates and extends 
 down the caudal fin ; composed of a number of short straight lines 
 slightly bent at the lower extremity ; under jaw longer than the up- 
 per ; teeth small and fine in both jaws, and on front of the vomer ; 
 dorsal ridge in young specimens strongly serrated ; when two feet 
 in length the serratures become crenated, and rough. First dor- 
 sal fin commencing over the base of the pectorals, of a triangular 
 
 * Trigla hirundo, Cuv., Yarr., Pen., Don., Linn. T. lavis. Mont., Flem. 
 Sapphirine Gurnard, Tub-fish, Smooth-sides. 
 
THE RED GURNARD. 177 
 
 form, and terminating in a line over the end of the ventral rays ; first 
 ray shorter than the second, all sharp and spiny. Second dorsal fin 
 commencing close behind the termination of the first, and ending 
 over the last ray of the anal ; tail lunated^; anal fin corresponding 
 with the second dorsal ; pectorals large, reaching a little beyond the 
 third ray of the anal ; ventrals terminating in front of the anal aper- 
 ture j three detached rays at the base of the pectorals, of which the 
 last is the longest ; number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 9 ; 2d D. 16 ; P. 10 ; V. 6 ; C. 11 ; A. 16. 
 
 Fleming, Pennant, and Donovan, have all very incor- 
 rectly adopted the characters of Linna3us, in considering the 
 lateral line of this fish rough ; but on close examination, it 
 is found to be perfectly smooth, which misled Montagu in 
 supposing he had obtained a new species, to which he gave 
 the name of Trigla l&vis. 
 
 The present fish can be readily distinguished from all the 
 other species of gurnards, except the T. lyra, by the lateral 
 line being smooth and simple, composed of a number of short 
 lines bent at the lower end. (See Plate 20.) 
 
 It differs from T. lyra in many respects, in having the 
 scales of the body entire , scapular spines short., and the $e- 
 condray of the first dorsal fin the longest ; whereas the scales 
 of lyra are ciliated, scapular spines extending halfway down 
 the pectorals ; the third ray of the first dorsal fin the longest, 
 and the short lines, which form the lateral line, straight. (See 
 Plate 21.) 
 
 This species is common in the Mediterranean, and also 
 on the English coast, more particularly on that of Corn- 
 wall, where it is sometimes taken the length of two feet, al- 
 though the more common length is from a foot to fourteen 
 inches. On the west coast of Scotland it is of frequent oc- 
 currence, but not so on the east coast. In the Firth of 
 
 VOL. VII. M 
 
178 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 Forth it is very rare, the only instance I am aware of its 
 capture in the estuary was during the month of August, near 
 Queensferry, where it was found in a pool of water left by 
 the receding of the tide ; occasionally it is taken beyond the 
 Isle of May and brought to the Edinburgh Market. The 
 ova in the month of January appear to be in a fit state to be 
 deposited. Its food is crustaceous animals and small fishes ; 
 its flesh is firm and wholesome, and is considered by some 
 to be superior to the last species, but in general more dry. 
 In the north of Europe it is salted for keeping ; it is out of 
 season in December, January, and February. 
 
 TRIGLA GURNARDUS.* THE GREY GURNARD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Pectoral and ventral fins of equal length ; not 
 reaching to the first ray of the anal fin ; lateral line crenated. (See 
 Plate 22.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen a foot in length. Body elongated 
 and rounded, tapering from the nape to the base of the tail ; back 
 straight ; head somewhat of a square form, falling obliquely from the 
 forehead to the end of the snout. Colour of the head, back, and sides, 
 as far as a little below the lateral line, brownish-grey, marked with 
 irregular white spots and a few black ones ; dorsal, caudal, and pec- 
 toral fins, dusky ; abdomen, lateral line, ventral and anal fins, pure 
 white. In young specimens, the head, back, and sides, are red, 
 with a black spot on the first dorsal fin j scales small, ciliated at their 
 free margins (Mr Yarrell says the scales are smooth) ; head and cheeks 
 rough, with granulations disposed in lines radiating from different 
 centres ; eyes large, placed high on the head ; two spines in front of 
 each orbit ; operculum on the upper and posterior edge ending in two 
 spines, the lower one much the longest ; scapular spine ending in a 
 sharp point directing back over the base of the pectoral fin ; lateral 
 line straight, bifurcating at the caudal extremity, and extending 
 down the caudal fin, composed, as far as the base of that fin, of a 
 number of elevated scales (in young specimens these scales and 
 
 * Trigla gurnardus, Cuv., Yar., Penn., Jen., Flem., Lin., Bloch, Don- 
 Grey Gurnard^ Crooner in Scotland. 
 
THE GREY GURNARD. 179 
 
 dorsal ridge are strongly serrated) which in old specimens, together 
 with the dorsal ridge, become crenated,* allowing the finger to pass as 
 easily from tail to head as in the contrary direction j under jaw 
 shortest ; teeth small and fine in each jaw and on front of the vomer ; 
 first dorsal fin commencing a little behind the base of the pectorals, 
 first ray shorter than the second ; second and third rays longer and 
 stouter than the rest ; second dorsal fin commencing at a short dis- 
 tance from the termination of the first, and ending in a line over the 
 last anal ray ; first rays longer than the succeeding ones ; anal fin 
 corresponding nearly with the second dorsal ; pectoral and ventral 
 fins of equal length not reaching to the vent ; three detached rays 
 under the base of the pectorals, of which the last is the longest. 
 Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 8 ; 2d D. 20 ; P. 9 ; V. 6 ; A. 19 ; C. 11 ; air-bladder bilobed. 
 
 This species is one of the most common on the east coast 
 of Scotland. " It is taken along the line of our southern 
 coast generally ; up the eastern coast going northwards, on 
 the coast of Scotland, and at the Orkney Islands ; it is found 
 also in the Baltic, and on the west coast of Norway ; it oc- 
 curs in Ireland in all the localities which produce the red 
 gurnard, namely from Waterford in the south, up the east- 
 ern coast to Londonderry in the north." ( 
 
 It occurs frequently in the Firth of Forth during the 
 summer months, seldom found higher up the estuary than 
 a little above Queensferry. Off Burntisland it is occasion- 
 ally taken, but not in such numbers as at the mouth of the 
 Firth. Pennant states, " that it sometimes attains the length 
 of two feet and a half; 1 ' although one half that size is con- 
 
 Mr Jenyns, in his Manual of British Vertebrate Animals, page 342, states, 
 that the lateral line is sharply serrated. Mr Yarrell says the lateral line 
 is strongly marked with a sharp crest. Dr Fleming in his work, page 215, 
 mentions, that the lateral line and dorsal ridge are serrated. This diver- 
 sity of opinions will be accounted for in the sequel, when speaking of the 
 characters at different ages of the fish. 
 
 f Yarrell's British Fishes. 
 
 M 2 
 
180 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 sidered beyond the average length. It feeds on Crustacea 
 and small fishes, and is taken generally with hooks baited 
 with muscles ; it spawns in May and June, when it is 
 out of season for the table. As food, it is considered by all 
 fishermen to be richer and sweeter than most of the other 
 gurnards, although in the market it is less sought after than 
 the red gurnard, which is the drier and worse-flavoured of 
 the two. 
 
 This fish when a foot in length is distinguished by hav- 
 ing short pectoral fins not reaching beyond the vent ; the 
 dorsal ridge and lateral line crenated but not serrated, allow- 
 ing the finger to pass as freely from tail to head as in the 
 contrary direction; and in having the first three dorsal spines 
 granulated ; the pectoral fins in all the other species (except 
 T. Blochii of Yar.) reach to or beyond the first ray of the 
 anal fin. In a specimen nine inches in length the dorsal 
 ridge is partly crenated and partly serrated, the granula- 
 tions appearing first on the back of those scales nearest the 
 tail ; each scale forming the lateral line has a small sharp 
 point directing backwards, with two or three granulations 
 pointing outwards; the first dorsal fin with a faint dark spot. 
 If a specimen seven inches in length be examined, we shall 
 find the dorsal ridge and lateral line strongly serrated, al- 
 lowing the finger to be readily passed down, but not in the 
 opposite direction ; the first dorsal spine granulated in front, 
 the second on the right side, and the third on the left ; a 
 distinct dark spot on the first dorsal fin, and a dark band 
 down the middle of the second dorsal. In a specimen six 
 inches long, the base of the three first dorsal spines is but 
 very faintly granulated ; and in one five inches long the 
 granulations are not apparent, and the pectoral fins reach to 
 the vent. 
 
BLOCH'S GURNARD. 181 
 
 TRIGLA BLOCHII.* BLOCK'S GURNARD. 
 
 Specific Characters. First dorsal fin with a black spot ; dorsal ridge 
 strongly serrated. (See PI. 23.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Body elonga- 
 ted, tapering from the posterior part of the head to the tail ; head 
 somewhat of a square form, falling obliquely from the forehead to the 
 tip of the nose ; back straight. Colour of the head, back, sides, dor- 
 sal, and caudal fins, rose red j abdomen, lateral line, ventral and anal 
 fins, dull white ; first dorsal fin with a large black spot placed on the 
 upper part of the membrane between the third, fourth, and fifth rays ; 
 pectorals dusky grey. Eyes large, placed high on the head ; two 
 spines in front of each orbit, directing backward. Head and cheeks 
 hard and rough, with granulations disposed in lines radiating from 
 different centres ; operculum ending in two sharp spines, the upper 
 not projecting beyond the membrane ; the lower one extending half 
 way over the scapular spine ; scapular spine rather long, ending in a 
 sharp point directing backwards over the base of the pectorals. La- 
 teral line straight, slightly turned at its origin, much raised and bi- 
 furcated at the caudal extremity j each scale composing it has two 
 teeth of unequal length, the lower one pointing towards the tail, 
 the other directing slightly upwards \ the finger can be passed with 
 ease down the scales, but not in the contrary direction. Dorsal ridge 
 strongly serrated, each scale or plate ending in a sharp point direct- 
 ing backward. Teeth small and fine in each jaw, and on front of 
 the vomer. First dorsal fin commencing a little behind the base of 
 the pectorals ; first ray shorter than the second, t second and third rays 
 the longest ; the remainder gradually decreasing ; second dorsal com- 
 mencing at a short distance from the termination of the first, and end- 
 ing nearly in a line over the base of the last anal ray ; first rays longer 
 than the rest. Anal fin corresponding with the second dorsal ; pec- 
 torals reaching to the vent and longer than the ventrals ; three de- 
 tached rays under the base of the pectorals, the first shorter than the 
 succeeding ones ; tail lunated. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 8 ; 2d D. 20 ; V. 6; A. 18 ; P. 9 ; C. 11 ; Branchiostegous rays 7. 
 
 This fish, according to the statements of authors, is found 
 in the Channel of Boulogne, and is very abundant in the 
 Mediterranean. It is equally common with the grey gur- 
 
 * Trlgla Blochii, Yarr. T. cuculus, Cuv., Penn., Jen., Bloch, Montagu, 
 f- Mr Yarrell has represented the first ray as being longer than the second. 
 
182 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 nard throughout the whole of the British coast, although it is 
 said to be of less common occurrence. Colonel Montagu, 
 as well as myself, have seen many of these taken on the 
 Devonshire coast, by small drag-nets, and returned again to 
 the water, the fishermen considering them as the young of 
 some of the other species of gurnards. 
 
 In the Firth of Forth, in the month of August, I pro- 
 cured several specimens about three inches in length, above 
 North Queensferry, in a pool of water which had been left 
 by the tide, where there were at least two dozen ; they re- 
 mained in the same station for five weeks, although the 
 tide covered them daily with three feet of water ; they did 
 not appear in the least shy but swam about in shoals, one 
 always taking the lead ; when they were suddenly ap- 
 proached they became stationary, and erected their first 
 dorsal fin, which, with the black spot on the upper part of 
 each, gave the shoal a beautiful appearance ; when they 
 were unmolested this fin became deflexed. In those I exa- 
 mined, their stomachs were filled with small shrimps and 
 star-fish. 
 
 The spawning season of this species is not known, as no 
 ova has yet been found in it of any size, although specimens 
 can be obtained all the year through. 
 
 From a close examination of several specimens of this 
 fish, of all sizes, I am induced to consider it as nothing else 
 than the young of the Trigla gitrnardus or grey gurnard, 
 notwithstanding the high authorities of Cuvier, Jenyns, 
 Montagu, and others, who, from personal examination, con- 
 sider it as a distinct species. 
 
 The characters by which this fish is said to be distin- 
 guished from the grey gurnard, are, first dorsal fin with a 
 black spot ; dorsal ridge strongly serrated, and the first three 
 dorsal rays smooth, not granulated. These characters de- 
 
THE SHORT-SPINED COTTUS. 183 
 
 pend on the age of the fish, as shewn when treating of the 
 last species, Trigla gurnardus. Mr Yarrell, in speaking of 
 this fish, says, " The spot on the first dorsal fin, however, 
 must not be considered as sufficient alone to identify this 
 species ; the two specimens under comparison, both having 
 this black spot, are in reality only varieties of the grey 
 gurnard." Certainly if we examine a specimen of T. Blo- 
 chii and a full grown one of T. gurnardus, we shall find 
 them to differ widely from one another ; but if a specimen 
 of either, nine inches in length, be examined, it will be 
 found to possess the characters of both, namely, the first 
 dorsal fin will have the rudiments of a dark spot ; the dorsal 
 ridge partly crenated and partly serrated, the lateral line 
 rough and serrated, and the body of a reddish-grey appear- 
 ance. Mr Jenyns states that it never attains the size of 
 the grey gurnard. In no instance have I ever found the 
 young of the grey gurnard possessing the characters of an 
 adult, but bearing always those which are assigned to 
 T. Blochii* 
 
 GENUS CO TTUS. Dorsal fins two ; body without 
 scales ; teeth in front of the vomer, but none on the pala- 
 tines. 
 
 COTTUS scoEPius.t THE SHORT-SPINED COTTUS. 
 
 Specific Characters. Preoperculum with three spines, the longest 
 not extending beyond the operculum. 
 
 Description. From a specimen a foot in length. Body rounded, 
 without scales, tapering gradually to the base of the tail ; head large, 
 
 * Plate 24. is here added to make the number of the British gurnards 
 complete, and to serve as a comparison should the fish be found to occur on 
 the Scottish coast. It has recently been added to the British Fauna. See 
 Magazine of Zoology and Botany, voL i. 
 
 f Cottus scorpius, Cuv., Yar., Jen., Bloch. Short-spined Coitus, Sea 
 Scorpion, Sea Bullhead, Scotland. 
 
184 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 armed with spines. Colour of the head, back, and sides reddish- 
 brown ; belly whitish, with large spots of light brown ; all the fins 
 beautifully marbled with black and white. The colours are very va- 
 riable, depending greatly on the time of the year in which they are 
 examined ; in July and August they are the most vivid, when I have 
 found the roe far advanced. Lateral line smooth, rather prominent, 
 commencing over the upper part of the operculum, taking a slight 
 curve to the end of the first dorsal fin, from thence straight to the base 
 of the tail where it terminates ; occasionally there are a number of small 
 rough tubercles scattered over the body, sometimes arranged in rows 
 presenting an appearance as if there were a second lateral line. (Mr 
 Yarrell has well represented this second line in his figure of this fish.) 
 Eyes moderate, situated rather high, placed nearer the point of the nose 
 than to the operculum. In front of each orbit is placed a short, stout, 
 sharp spine, and a small tubercle on the upper and posterior margin. 
 Operculum with a stout, sharp spine directing over the base of the 
 pectorals ; suboperculum with two short spines, one pointing down 
 towards the base of the ventral fin, the other directing to the first ray of 
 the pectoral fin. Preoperculum with three spines; the first, which is the 
 longest, points towards the base of the first ray of the pectorals, and 
 does not extend beyond the posterior border of the operculum ; the 
 second, which arises at the base of the former, is about one-half its 
 length, and points towards the base of the tenth ray of the pectoral ; 
 the third, which scarcely projects beyond the membrane, points 
 towards the base of the lower jaw. First dorsal fin commencing 
 over the middle of the base of the pectorals, and terminating in a line 
 over the anterior part of the vent ; all its rays spinous and slender ; 
 the middle ones the longest. Second dorsal commencing close be- 
 hind the first, and ending rather behind the termination of the anal fin ; 
 its middle rays the longest. Anal corresponding with the second 
 dorsal, but somewhat shorter ; pectorals broad and rounded, extend- 
 ing rather under the throat, the seventh, eighth, and ninth ray the 
 longest , ventrals placed under the base of the lower part of the 
 pectorals. Teeth small and fine in both jaws, and on front of the 
 vomer ; under jaw the shortest ; a conical elevation between the 
 nasal spines ; tail rounded at the end ; occipital spine short .; scapu- 
 lar spine directing backwards and slightly upwards. Number of 
 fin rays 
 
 1st D. 9; 2d D. 16; P. 16 ; V. 4; A. 11 ; C. 12; Branchiostegous 
 rays 6. 
 
 It is distinguished from the Coitus bubalis in the lateral 
 line being smooth ; the long spine of the preoperculum not 
 
THE LONG-SPINE D COTTUS. 185 
 
 extending beyond the posterior margin of the operculum ; 
 and in having a conical elevation between the nasal spines. 
 Whereas the lateral line in Coitus bubatis is rough ; the 
 spine of the preoperculum extends beyond the posterior 
 margin of the operculum ; and no elevation between the 
 nasal spines. 
 
 We have reason to suppose that this fish does not exist 
 in the Mediterranean, since Risso makes no mention of it 
 in his Ichthyologie de Nice, nor is it found so plentiful on 
 the southern coast of England as on the east and west 
 coasts of Scotland. It is common in the Firth of Forth in 
 the months of July and August, and is found as far up 
 as opposite Kincardine, where a few are occasionally taken. 
 The flesh is eaten on some parts of the coast, but is by no 
 means considered a delicate morsel. It feeds on Crustacea 
 generally, and small fishes, keeps not far from shore, and 
 is frequently found in small pools left by the receding tide. 
 The common length is from seven to nine inches, although 
 occasionally specimens are found to exceed a foot. 
 
 COTTUS BUBALIS.* THE LONG-SPINED COTTUS. 
 
 Specific Characters. Preoperculum with four spines ; the longest 
 extending beyond the operculum. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Body 
 rounded, without scales, tapering gradually to the base of the tail. 
 Head large, armed with spines, some directing backwards, others 
 downwards. Colour of the head, back, and sides, reddish-brown ; 
 belly dull white ; fins more or less mottled with dark-brown, with a 
 shade- of orange, but very variable ; more brilliant in the spawning 
 season. Lateral line elevated, rough, more so behind the pectorals, 
 taking a slight bend at its origin and passing straight to the tail. 
 Eyes nearer the nose than to the posterior margin of the operculum ; 
 
 * Coitus bubalus, Cuv., Yar., Jen. Long-spined Coitus, Father Lasher, 
 Lucky Proach, Scotland. 
 
186 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 in front of each orbit a small sharp spine, and on the upper and pos- 
 terior margin a small tubercle, whence proceeds an elevated ridge 
 passing backwards, terminating in a sharp point. Operculum with 
 a strong granulated spine directing over the base of the pectorals, 
 and inclining a little upwards ; suboperculum with two spines, one 
 pointing backwards, and the other downwards towards the base of 
 the ventrals. Preoperculum with four spines, the first the longest, 
 directing backwards, over the base of the pectorals and inclining a 
 little upwards j the second very short, about one-fifth the length of 
 the first, commencing at its base, directing backwards and outwards ; 
 the third similar to the last j the fourth pointing downwards to the 
 base of the lower jaw. First dorsal fin commencing over the base 
 of the pectorals, and terminating in a line over the anterior part of 
 the vent ; all its rays spinous and slender, the middle ones the longest, 
 the last shortest ; second dorsal fin commencing at a short distance 
 from the termination of the first, and ending a little behind the last 
 ray of the anal, its middle rays rather the longest. Tail rounded ; 
 anal fin corresponding with the second dorsal, but shorter ; pectorals 
 broad and rounded, extending rather under the throat ; sixth, seventh, 
 and eighth rays the longest, the remainder on the lower border gra- 
 dually decreasing ; ventrals short, commencing under the base of 
 the lower part of the pectorals. Teeth small and fine in both jaws 
 and in front of the vomer, lower jaw shortest ; scapular spine direct- 
 ing backwards and inclining a little upwards. Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 8 ; 2d D. 12 ; P. 16 ; V. 4 ; A. 9 ; C. 10 ; Branchiostegous 
 rays 6. 
 
 This species is distinguished from Coitus scorplus in the 
 lateral line being rough, the spine of the operculum gra- 
 nulated ; preoperculum with four spines, the longest reach- 
 ing to the base of the pectorals. Whereas the lateral line 
 and spine of the operculum in C< scorpius are smooth, pre- 
 operculum with three spines, the longest not reaching to the 
 base of the pectorals. 
 
 It was not until after the appearance of Mr Yarrell's 
 valuable work on the British Fishes, that naturalists in this 
 country could distinguish the difference between this and 
 the last species, being constantly confounded under one 
 synonym, the Father Lasher. 
 
 It is now well known that two species, equally common, 
 
THE LONG-SPINED COTTUS. 187 
 
 are found to inhabit the coasts of Britain, which are not 
 only distinguished from one another by certain specific 
 characters, but differ likewise in their habits and peculia- 
 rities. 
 
 Mr Yarrell, who was the first naturalist to discover the 
 Cottus bubalis as British, says that the " Father Lasher is 
 immediately recognised by its well-armed head and long 
 spines, but seldom measures more than from six to ten 
 inches in length on our shores. During the greater part of 
 the year it is to be found on the coast from Cornwall to the 
 Orkneys, and is frequently left by the receding of the tide 
 in small pools among rocks. The general appearance of 
 the fish is forbidding ; when touched it distends its gill- 
 covers, and sets out its numerous spines, assuming a most 
 threatening appearance. It spawns in January, and the ova 
 at that time are very large, and of a fine orange-yellow 
 colour. These are deposited near the sea-shore, frequently 
 in the estuaries and sometimes even in rivers ; the fish hav- 
 ing prepared itself for this change by its previous residence 
 in the brackish water, after which it appears to be able to 
 bear either extreme. Its food is small crustaceous animals, 
 and it is said to be particularly partial to feeding on the fry 
 of the blennies. In Greenland it is in such great request, 
 that Pallas tells us it forms the principal food of the 
 natives, and the soup made of it is said to be agreeable as 
 well as wholesome." This fish is as frequently met with in 
 the Firth of Forth as the Cottus scorpius, and is common 
 throughout the Firth, but seldom found higher up the 
 estuary than a little above Queensferry. Near North Ber- 
 wick, as many as nine were taken from a small pool that 
 had been left by the tide. The most favourable locality 
 for this fish appears to be rocky situations, or where there 
 are large stones covered with fuci, among which it secures 
 
188 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 itself by crawling a far way underneath ; it takes the bait 
 eagerly, and a number are taken off the pier-head at Leith 
 with hooks baited with muscle. In the stomachs of many 
 I found small shells and the remains of star-fish. 
 
 GENUS ASPIDOPHORUS. Dorsal fins two; body 
 covered with scaly plates; vomer and palatines without teeth. 
 
 ASPIDOPHOHUS EUROPJEUS.* THE AllMKD BULLHEAD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Chin with thread-like filaments ; vent under 
 the middle of the pectorals. 
 
 Description. From a specimen four inches in length. Body an- 
 gular, tapering to the tail ; covered with a number of hard scaly 
 plates ; head depressed ; dorsal, pectoral, and caudal fins rounded ; 
 the body behind the pectorals hexagonal ; from the termination of 
 the pectorals to the end of the second dorsal octagonal ; from thence 
 to the tail hexagonal. Colour of the head, back, dorsal, and caudal 
 fins, light brown ; belly and anal fin white ; pectorals slightly mot- 
 tled with brown ; body with three, or sometimes more, broad, trans- 
 verse dark bands. Lateral line commencing over the base of the pec- 
 torals, making a slight bend to the end of the pectoral rays, thence 
 straight to the tail, composed of a series of small elevated dots, placed 
 a little apart from each other. Operculum rounded, entire, without 
 spines ; preoperculum with a stout curved spine on its lower mar- 
 gin, extending back nearly to the posterior border of the operculum. 
 A little before this is another spine,, much smaller, pointing outwards 
 and upwards ; infra-orbitals with three or four small tubercles on the 
 inferior margin; snout with four strong erect spines, two on each side ; 
 eyes moderate, placed nearer the point of the nose than to the pos- 
 terior margin of the operculum ; from the posterior border of the or- 
 bit extends an elevated bony ridge, which terminates at the nape ; 
 jaws furnished with a number of small fine teeth, but none on the 
 vomer or palatines ; under jaw the shortest. First dorsal fin com- 
 mencing over the middle of the pectorals, and ending a very little 
 beyond them ;t .second dorsal fin commencing close behind the first, 
 
 * Aspidophorus Europaus, Cuv., Yar., Jen. Coitus cataphractus, Linn., 
 Pen., Don. Cataphractus Schoneveldii, Flem. Armed Bullhead, Pogge, 
 Lyre, Sea-poacher, Pluck, Noble, Shell- backed Bullhead, Scotland. 
 
 f The position of the dorsal fins is liable to vary a little according to the 
 size of the fish ; in a specimen six inches in length the first dorsal fin com- 
 mences over the lotter third of the pectorals. 
 
THE ARMED BULLHEAD. 189 
 
 and terminating behind the last ray of the anal ; anal fin placed under 
 the second dorsal, with its last rays the longest ; pectorals rather 
 large ; ventrals commencing under the base of the pectorals,, and ex- 
 tending to a little behind the vent, which is situated under the middle 
 of the pectorals ; chin and branchiostegous membrane furnished with 
 a number of thread-like appendages. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 5 ; 2d D. 6 ; P. 16 ; V. 3 ; A. 7 ; C. 11 ; Branchiostegous 
 rays 6. 
 
 This species is readily distinguished from its congeners, 
 by the body being covered with osseous plates, and the chin 
 fringed with thread-like appendages. 
 
 Mr Yarrell says, on the authority of Mr Couch, that 
 " this species is not very common in Cornwall, and that, 
 when found, it is most frequently near the mouths of rivers, 
 but occasionally taken far out at sea." In the county of 
 Devon, in the sandy bays of Exmouth, I have frequently 
 met with it, although Colonel Montagu considers it rare 
 on the south coast of Devon. Mr Yarrell states that it is 
 well known along the line of our southern coast ; and the 
 young of small size are frequently taken by the shrimpers 
 in most of the sandy bays in the mouth of the Thames, and 
 of other rivers. In the Firth of Forth it is very common- 
 ly taken in the oyster dredges off Newhaven, as well as in 
 the cruives at Kincardine. It occurs on the coast of Nor- 
 way, and in all the northern seas as far as Greenland. Mr 
 Jenyns states that it conceals itself in the sand, and feeds on 
 small crustacea and marine insects. According to Bloch, 
 it spawns in May : its flesh is said to be firm and good. 
 Average length about four inches. 
 
 GENUS GASTEROSTEUS.VoTsal fin one, with from 
 three to fifteen spines in front ; teeth in both jaws ; none 
 on the vomer or palatines. 
 
190 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 GASTEROSTEUS LEIURUS.* THE QUARTER-ARMED 
 STICKLEBACK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Back armed with three spines ; lateral plates 
 not extending beyond the second dorsal spine. (See Plate 25.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen two inches in length. Body ra- 
 ther elongated of an oval form ; sides compressed ; head granulated ; 
 cheeks smooth ; colour of the back and sides yellowish-brown ; tho- 
 rax and belly silvery- white ; male individuals, especially in ,the 
 spawning season, are red under the throat and breast, and shaded 
 with bright green on the sides, but liable to great variation. Late- 
 ral line commencing over the scapular plate, and taking the curve of 
 the back to the base of the tail ; sides, over the pectorals, armed 
 with three or four scaly plates, which terminate under the second 
 dorsal spine, and not extending beyond the end of the pectoral rays ; 
 from the second dorsal spine to the tail, the sides are smooth with- 
 out scales, marked with transverse linear depressions, forming an angle 
 at the junction with the lateral line. Scapular plate and operculum 
 rounded ; preoperculum slightly produced at its inferior posterior 
 margin ; ascending portion of the pelvic plate passing behind the pec- 
 torals, and ending in two points a little under the lateral line. First 
 dorsal spine placed over the base of the pectorals ; the second, which 
 is the longest, over the last lateral plate ; the third, which is much 
 the smallest, over the termination of the pelvic plate. Dorsal fin com- 
 mencing close behind the last spine, and ending nearly in a line over 
 the termination of the anal fin ; tail fin slightly concave at the end ; 
 anal fin corresponding with the dorsal, but commencing farther back ; 
 a small bent spine in front of the first ray ; each ventral fin composed 
 of a strong serrated spine ; pectorals not reaching beyond the mem- 
 brane of the second dorsal spine ; eyes large j jaws furnished with 
 small fine teeth ; none on the vomer or palatines ; under jaw the 
 longest ; base of the tail never keeled. Number of fin rays 
 D. 11 ; P. 10 ; V. 2 ; A. 8 ; C. 12 ; Branchial rays 3. 
 
 It is distinguished from G. trachurus and G. semiarma- 
 tus by the lateral plates not extending beyond the second 
 dorsal spine ; but in what respect it differs from G. brachy- 
 centrus, both of equal length, I am not prepared to say. 
 
 * Gasterosteus leiurus, Cuv., Yar. G. aculeatus, Penn. (p. Ixi.) Quar- 
 ter-armed Stickleback* Smooth-tailed Stickleback, Banstickle, Scotland. 
 
THE QUARTER- ARM ED STICKLEBACK. 191 
 
 This species is said to be extremely common in all the 
 fresh waters of Europe. It is known throughout England 
 by the name of Stickleback, and in Scotland is denomi- 
 nated Banstickle. It is far more common in the districts of 
 the Firth than G. trachurus, and is found in Lochend, Dud- 
 dingston Loch, and in most of the pools and ditches in the 
 neighbourhood. " It is an active and greedy little fish, ex- 
 tremely destructive to the fry of other species, and conse- 
 quently injurious in ponds where these are sought to be 
 preserved." We are informed by Mr Baker, that it will 
 spring not less than a foot perpendicularly out of the water, 
 and to a much greater distance in an oblique direction, when 
 it desires to overcome any opposing obstacle. It is scarce- 
 ly to be conceived what damage these little fish do, and how 
 greatly detrimental they are to the increase of all the fish in 
 general among which they live ; for it is with the utmost 
 industry, sagacity, and greediness that they seek out and 
 destroy all the young fry that come in their way, which 
 are pursued with the utmost eagerness, and swallowed down 
 without distinction, provided they are not too large ; and in 
 proof of this I must assert, that a banstickle which I kept 
 for some time, did, on the 4th of May, devour in five hours' 
 time, seventy-four young dace, which were about a quarter 
 of an inch long, and of the thickness of a horse-hair. Two 
 days after, it swallowed sixty-two ; and would, I am per- 
 suaded, have eat as many every day could I have procured 
 them for it.* It spawns in May ; its flesh, although whole- 
 some and palatable, is seldom made use of as food. 
 
 * Encyclopaedia Britannica, article Ichthyology, J. Wilson, Esq., Edin- 
 burgh. 
 
192 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 GASTEUOSTEUS SEMIARMATUS.* THE HALF-ARMED 
 STICKLEBACK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Back armed with three spines j lateral plates 
 not extending beyond the line of the vent. (See Plate XXV.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen two inches in length. Body ra- 
 ther elongated of an oval form ; scapular plate, operculum, and pre- 
 operculum, rounded at their posterior margin ; under jaw the long- 
 est ; dorsal and anal fins gradually diminishing in height from the an- 
 terior rays ; caudal fin even at the end, or very slightly concave ; 
 second dorsal spine the longest ; the third very small, not half the 
 size of the first. Colour of the head, back, and sides, yellowish- 
 brown, with a shade of green ; cheeks, thorax, and belly, silvery- 
 white. Lateral line commencing over the upper part of the opercu- 
 luni, following the curve of the back, and terminates at the base of the 
 tail ; sides armed by a number of scaly plates, which do not extend 
 beyond the line of the vent, from thence to the tail the sides are nak- 
 ed, marked with transverse linear depressions, forming an angle at 
 their junction with the lateral line. First dorsal spine placed over 
 the base of the pectorals j the second over the ventral spine ; the 
 third over the termination of the pelvic plate. Dorsal fin commenc- 
 ing close behind the last dorsal spine ; anal fin commencing behind 
 the vent, and both fins terminating in the same line ; each ventral fin 
 composed of a strong serrated spine, commencing at the base of the as- 
 cending portion of the pelvic plate ; pectorals small, even at the end j 
 eyes large ; teeth fine and sharp in both jaws ; none of the vomer or 
 palatines ; base of the tail smooth, never keeled ; a small curved 
 spine at the base of the first anal ray. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 10 ; P. 10 ; V. 2 ; A. 9 ; C. 12 ; Branchial rays 3. 
 
 This fish is of much less frequent occurrence than G. 
 Mu?w, or G. trachurus, although found to inhabit the same 
 places. It seldom exceeds two inches and a half in length, 
 and is supposed by Jenyns to be only a variety of the leiu- 
 rus. They certainly are very much alike, but the fact of 
 the lateral plates extending beyond the end of the pecto- 
 rals and not passing the vent, is considered by Cuvier and 
 Yarrell as a sufficient character to constitute it a distinct 
 species. It is found occasionally in the marshes below 
 Kincardine, and in the ditches in Guillon Links. 
 * Gasterosteus semiarmatus, Cuv., Yarr. 
 
THE FULL. ARMED STICKLEBACK. 193 
 
 ?>lr Jenyns, who appears to have paid much attention to 
 the characters of these fisn, says, that " G. leiurus, G. se- 
 TniarmatuS) G. trachurus, and G. brachycentrus, are mere 
 varieties, subject to great variation, not only in the num- 
 ber of the lateral plates, but in several other less obvious 
 respects. The former may occasionally be found of every 
 intermediate number, down to that which characterizes G. 
 trachurus. This number, moreover, is sometimes found 
 constant in specimens which differ remarkably in other re- 
 spects ; at other times varying, when all other characters 
 remain the same." Mr Yarrell states, that " he has taken 
 specimens of G. semiarmatus of all sizes, which were uni- 
 form in the number of lateral plates, and close examination 
 by a friend who has paid particular attention to this sub- 
 ject, has shewn that no point of ossification or induration is 
 to be found posterior to the last perfect lateral plate which 
 seldom passes beyond the line of the vent/' 
 
 GASTEROSTETJS TRACHURUS.* THE FULL-ARMED 
 STICKLEBACK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Back armed with three spines ; lateral plates 
 extending to the base of the tail. (Plate XXV.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen two inches and a half in length* 
 Body rather elongated of an oval form ; sides compressed ; scapular 
 plate, operculum, and preoperculum, rounded at the posterior bor- 
 der ; under jaw the longest ; dorsal and anal fins diminishing in height 
 from before backwards, and ending in the same line; tail fin slightly con- 
 cave at the end ; second dorsal spine the longest ; the third the short- 
 est, not half as long as the first ; lateral line commencing over the 
 base of the scapular plate, taking the curve of the line of the back 
 to the base of the tail ; first dorsal spine placed over the base of the 
 pectorals ; second over the ascending portion of the pelvic plate ; 
 
 * Gasterosteus trachurus, Cuv., Yarr. G. aculeatus, Bloch, Don., Flem,, 
 Jen. Full-armed Stickleback, Rough-tailed Stickleback, Banstickle, Sharp* 
 lin. 
 
 VOL. VII. N 
 
(94 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH, 
 
 the third over the point of the ventral spine ; dorsal fin commencing 
 close behind the last dorsal spine ; anal fin commencing behind the 
 vent, with a small bent spine placed in front of the base of its ante- 
 rior ray ; ventral fin composed of a strong serrated spine, placed at 
 the base of the ascending portion of the pelvic plate ; eyes large ; 
 teeth small and fine in both jaws ; none on the vomer or palatines ; 
 base of the tail square; formed by a horizontal expansion of skin 
 placed on both sides. Colour of the head, back, and sides, brown- 
 ish-grey, shaded with green ; cheeks, thorax, and abdomen, silvery- 
 white. Number of fin rays 
 D. 10 ; P. 10 ; V. 2 ; A. 9 ; C. 12 ; Branchial rays 3. 
 
 It is readily distinguished by two constant characters, 
 namely, the sides armed with plates extending from the 
 base of the pectorals to the tail ; and the base of the tail 
 being square, formed by a horizontal expansion of skin on, 
 both sides. 
 
 Mr Jenyns considers this stickleback as a mere variety 
 of the preceding ones ; but, as far as my observations have 
 led me, I agree with Cuvier and Yarrell, in considering it 
 a constant and well-marked species. I have examined care- 
 fully several hundred, from half an inch to two inches and 
 a half in length, and in all the specimens the lateral plates 
 were constant ; nor does the square tail exist in the other 
 species, however variable the characters may be in other 
 respects. 
 
 This species is known throughout the whole of the British 
 coast, but is found more plentiful in some situations than 
 in others. Pennant states that at Spalding, in Lincoln- 
 shire, there are, once in seven years, amazing shoals which 
 appeap'in the Welland, coming up the river in the form of 
 a vast column. This concourse is supposed to arise from 
 the multitudes which have been washed out of the fens by 
 the floods of several years, and which collect in deep holes,, 
 till, overcharged with numbers, they are obliged to attempt 
 a change of place. The quantity may, perhaps, be con- 
 ceived from the fact, that a man employed in collecting; 
 
THE FULL-ARMED STICKLEBACK, 195 
 
 them gained, for a considerable time, four shillings a-day 
 by selling them at the rate of a halfpenny a bushel.* The 
 habits of these fish, when observed while under confinement, 
 are extremely pugnacious. " When a few were placed in 
 a wooden vessel, they swam about in a shoal, apparently 
 exploring their new habitation ; suddenly, one will take 
 possession of a particular corner of the tub, or, as it will 
 sometimes happen, of the bottom, and will instantly com- 
 mence an attack upon his companions ; and if any one of 
 them ventures to oppose his sway, a regular and most fu- 
 rious battle ensues. The two combatants swim round and 
 round each other with the greatest rapidity, biting and en- 
 deavouring to pierce each other with their spines, which on 
 these occasions are projected. I have witnessed a battle of 
 this sort which lasted several minutes before either would 
 give way ; and when one does submit, imagination can 
 hardly conceive the vindictive fury of the conqueror, who, 
 in the most persevering and unrelenting way, chases his 
 rival from one part of the tub to another, until fairly ex- 
 hausted with fatigue. They also use their spines with such 
 fatal effect that, incredible as it may appear, I have seen 
 one during a battle absolutely rip his opponent quite open, 
 so that he sunk to the bottom and died. I have occasion- 
 ally known three or four parts of the tub taken possession 
 of by as many other little tyrants, who guard their territo- 
 ries with the strictest vigilance. These are the habits of 
 the male fish alone ; the females are quite pacific, appear 
 fat, as full of roe, and never assume the brilliant colours of 
 the male, by whom, as far as I have observed, they are un- 
 molested." t 
 
 However plentiful this species may be on some parts of 
 
 * Encyclopaedia Britannica, article Ichthyology. 
 f- Yarreirs British Fishes. 
 
FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the coast, it is by no means common in the Firth of Forth. 
 The only places I know of its occurrence are between Bo'- 
 ness and South Queensferry, and in the vicinity of Aber- 
 lady, and then seldom more than five or six are found toge- 
 ther. Further south on the same coast, in the neighbour- 
 hood of Berwick-upon-Tweed,it is more frequently met with, 
 inhabiting brackish water in preference to either fresh or salt 
 water. The young when disturbed are remarkably active, 
 darting about in every direction, and will often, to avoid the 
 pursuer, bury themselves an inch or more under the surface 
 of the mud. They are of little or no use except as manure 
 for the land. They spawn in spring, and feed on insects, 
 worms, and the fry of other fishes. 
 
 GASTEROSTEUS SPINULOSCS.* THE FOUK-SPINED 
 STICKLEBACK. 
 
 , Specific Characters. Back armed with four spines. (See Plate 
 
 XXV.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen one inch and a half in length. Body 
 of an oval form ; sides compressed; operculum, preoperculum, and 
 scapular plate rounded at the posterior margin ; under jaw the 
 longest ; dorsal and anal fins of the same form, gradually decreasing 
 from before backwards ; caudal fin slightly concave ; second and 
 third dorsal spines the longest, the fourth the shortest, not half the 
 length of the first. Lateral line commencing over the base of the 
 scapular plate, following the line of the curve of the back to the base 
 of the tail. First dorsal spine placed over the base of the pectorals ; 
 second over the ascending portion of the pelvic plate ; the third 
 over the end of the ventral spine ; dorsal fin commencing close be- 
 hind the last dorsal spine, and ending over the last ray of the anal ; 
 anal fin commencing under the third dorsal ray. Lateral plates 
 about three in number, extending down as far as the end of the pec- 
 toral rays ; from thence to the tail the sides are naked, marked like 
 G. leiurus with linear transverse depressions ; ventral fin composed 
 of a strong serrated spine, attached behind to a small ray, placed at 
 the base of the ascending portion of the pelvic plate. Eyes large ; 
 teeth umall and fine in both jaws, none on the vomer or palatines; 
 
 * Gasteroste'ue spinulosus, Yar., Jen. 
 
THE FOUR-SPIN ED STICKLEBACK. 197 
 
 at the base of the first ray of 'the anal fin, a small curved spine. Co- 
 lour of the head, back, and sides, brownish-green ; cheeks thorax, 
 and abdomen, silvery- white. Number of fin rays 
 D. 9 ; P. 9 ; A. 8 ; C. 12 ; Branchial rays 3. 
 
 Dr Stark was the first naturalist who noticed a four-spined 
 species of stickleback, inhabiting the waters of Britain ; seve- 
 ral specimens, about an inch and a quarter in length, were 
 found by him in a ditch in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh, 
 and exhibited at a meeting of the Wernerian Natural His- 
 tory Society in 1831. Since then I have met with it in 
 several localities ; in a stream about a mile above South 
 Queensferry ; in ditches at Guillon Links ; in a ditch on the 
 west side of Duddingston Loch, and in the neighbourhood 
 of Berwick-upon-Tweed. In this last-named locality I 
 found three specimens with the third spine much shorter 
 than the fourth, which deserves to rank higher than as a mere 
 variety. (See Plate XXV.) 
 
 GASTEROSTEUS PUNGITIUS.* THE TEN-SPINED 
 STICKLEBACK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Back armed with ten spines. (Plate XXVI.) 
 Description. From a specimen one inch and a half in length. 
 Body rather elongated, of an oval form ; sides compressed, naked, 
 without lateral plates ; operculum, preoperculum, and scapular plate, 
 rounded at the posterior margin ; eyes large ; under jaw the long- 
 est. Colour of the head, back, and sides, of a yellowish-brown, oc- 
 casionally dark brown, and in a few instances nearly black ; cheeks, 
 thorax, and abdomen, dull white, minutely frecked with dark olive, 
 liable to great variation in colour. Back with ten spines, the first 
 placed over the middle of the shoulder plate, the last, which is the 
 longest and stoutest, placed in a line over the anterior part of the 
 anal spine. Dorsal fin commencing close behind the last dorsal 
 spine, and ending in a line with the last ray of the anal fin ; its anterior 
 rays the longest, gradually decreasing from before backwards ; anal 
 fin corresponding with the dorsal : tail even at the end, or very 
 
 * Gasterosteus pungitius, Cuv., Yar., Jen., Don., Pen., Flem, 
 
198 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 slightly concave ; ventral spine placed under the middle of the pec- 
 torals, not as long- as the abdominal plate ; lateral line commencing 
 over the scapular plate, and taking a straight course to the base of 
 the tail ; ascending portion of the pelvic plate rather narrow, not 
 extending so high as to meet the lateral line ; sides marked by a 
 number of linear transverse depressions, forming an angle at their 
 junction with the lateral line. Teeth small and fine in both jaws, 
 none on the vomer or palatines ; number of fin rays 
 D. 10 ; P. 11 ; A. 10; V. 2 ; C. 12 ; Branchial rays 3. 
 
 This fish is said to be equally abundant with the three- 
 spine species of stickleback, and is found in salt, as well as 
 in fresh water pools. In the district of the Firth of Forth, 
 I have met with but four specimens, and those were taken 
 in a small stream west of Prestonpans ; two of them dif- 
 fered in the number of dorsal spines, the one possessing 
 eleven spines and the other nine, but in other respects they 
 were similar to those with ten spines. (See Plate XXVI.) 
 
 GASTEROSTEUS SPINACHIA.* THE FIFTEEN-SPINED 
 STICKLEBACK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Back armed with fifteen spines. (PI. XXVI.) 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Body much 
 elongated, rounded in front of the dorsal fin, behind it depressed ; 
 base of the tail compressed ; dorsal and anal fins of equal size, of a 
 triangular form, slightly rounded at their free margins ; caudal fin, 
 when expanded, slightly rounded at the end ; scapular plate, oper- 
 culum, and preoperculum, also rounded. Colour of the head, back, 
 and sides, brownish-yellow,occasionallybright-green ; cheeks, thorax, 
 and abdomen silvery- white ; anterior part of the dorsal and anal fins 
 black, the remainder transparent ; sides spotted and marked with ir- 
 regular brown bands, passing across the lateral line in the region of 
 the dorsal and anal fins ; a bright silvery band extending from the 
 angle of the mouth, round the inferior margin of the orbit, to the up- 
 per half of the preoperculum. Lateral line strongly marked, much 
 elevated, commencing over the operculum, and passing nearly in a 
 straight line to the base of the tail, composed of a number of imbricated 
 
 * Gasterosteus spinachia, Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Linn., Bloch, Don. Spina- 
 chia vulgaris, Flem. Fifteen-spined Stickleback, Great Sea-adder, Bismore, 
 Duckins at Berwick. 
 
THE FIFTEEN-SPINED STICKLEBACK. 109 
 
 scales, slightly carinated on the outer surface, marked by a few 
 granulated and striated lines ; dorsal spines commencing 1 over the 
 middle of the scapular plate, fifteen in number, all of equal length, the 
 last excepted, which is rather longer and more curved than the pre- 
 ceding ones. Dorsal fin commencing immediately over the vent, and 
 ending in a line a little before the termination of the anal fin ; ventral 
 fin commencing close behind the end of the pectorals, composed of 
 two rays, the first strong and spiny, the other, which is placed behind, 
 soft and flexible ; under jaw the longest, both jaws furnished with a 
 number of small teeth, none on the vomer or palatines, those in front 
 are placed in a row about four in number, stouter and more bent than 
 the others. Eyes large, situated nearer the posterior margin of the 
 operculum than to the point of the snout ; a strong bent spine close 
 behind the vent corresponding in size to the last dorsal spine. Num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 D7;PH;V2;A7;C12; Branchial rays 3. 
 
 This species of stickleback is considered by Mr Couch 
 to be common on the coast of Cornwall, where, in the sum- 
 mer months, considerable numbers of fry are seen swimming 
 about at the margin of the sea. I have observed it on the 
 coast of Devon as well as in many places on the west and 
 east coasts of Scotland, and according to Mr Low it is found 
 very frequent in the Orkneys. Perhaps, in no part of the 
 British coast do they exist in greater numbers than on 
 the coast of Berwick-upon-Tweed ; there have I seen in 
 the month of June, in some of the pools which had been 
 left by the tide, as many as a hundred young ones together, 
 taking refuge under the large blades of fuel which they de- 
 light to frequent. At this time the fry are from an inch to 
 an inch and a half in length, the parent fish which grows 
 to the length of five inches or more keeping far in the deep. 
 On the return of the tide specimens of large size are occa- 
 sionally taken in the salmon nets at the mouth of the Tweed ; 
 but are never found to ascend the river higher than brackish 
 water. These fish are not common in the Firth of Forth, 
 although it seems a place well calculated for their habits, 
 in containing large quantities of Jfct, more particularly 
 
200 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the Chordaria Jlagelliformis. They are found in pools 
 near Aberlady, but seldom more than three or four together. 
 While undisturbed, they remain apparently motionless, mov- 
 ing the pectorals only, and occasionally giving a dart with 
 such velocity as almost to escape observation. Specimens 
 have occasionally been taken at Queensferry, but they are 
 rarely seen as high up as Alloa. 
 
 They feed on small insects, and the fry of other fishes, and 
 spawn in the early part of spring. Their flesh is never made 
 use of as food. 
 
 FAMILY III. SCLENID^E. Preoperculum denticu- 
 lated, operculum with spines ; no teeth on the vomer or pa- 
 latine. 
 
 GENUS SCI JEN A. Dorsal fins two ; head and body 
 covered with scales. 
 
 SCLENA AQU1LA.* THE MAIGBE. 
 
 Specific Character. Anal fin with only one spine ; chin without a 
 barbule. 
 
 Description. Body elongated, resembling the Perca labraa? in form ; 
 sides rather compressed, covered with scales ; first dorsal fin short; 
 the anterior rays the longest ; second dorsal, with the terminating 
 rays, the shortest ; tail even at the end ; preoperculum very slightly 
 notched at its posterior and inferior margin ; operculum ending in 
 two flattened points directing over the base of the pectorals ; jaws 
 nearly of equal length ; cheeks covered with scales. First dorsal fin 
 commencing over the base of the pectorals, and ending at a short dis- 
 tance below the termination of the rays j second dorsal commencing 
 close behind the first, and ending near the base of the tail ; anal fin 
 short, placed rather behind the middle of the second dorsal ; ventrals 
 situated a little behind the base of the pectorals. Colour of the head 
 and back brownish-grey ; cheeks and sides silvery-grey ; belly dull 
 white. Lateral line commencing over the upper part of the oper- 
 
 * Scicena aquila, Cuv., Yar M Jen., Flem. 
 
THE MAIGRE. 201 
 
 culum ; taking a slight bent over the pectorals, from thence falling 
 gradually to the tail ; jaws furnished with a number of sharp teeth, 
 none in the vonier, tongue, or palatines. Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 9; 2d D. 28; P. 16 ; V. 6 ; A. 9j C. 17 ; Branchial rays 7. 
 
 The maigre is extremely common in many parts of the 
 Mediterranean, especially along the Roman States. It has 
 occurred several times on the English coasts, as well as once 
 in Zetland. A specimen about three feet and a half in 
 length was taken a short time since in the Firth of Forth, 
 and is now in the College Museum of Edinburgh, from 
 which the above description was taken. It was found en- 
 tangled in a salmon net at the mouth of the Esk, a short 
 distance from Musselburgh. Paul Jovius mentions, that 
 many are taken at the mouth of rivers, along with sturgeons. 
 They swim in troops, and are said to utter at times a sin- 
 gular low bellowing beneath the waters. The noise may 
 be heard at a depth of twenty fathoms, and is often very 
 perceptible when the ear is placed upon the gunnel of the 
 boat. Its tone seems to vary, as some have compared it to 
 a dull buzzing, others to a sharp whistle. Some of the fisher- 
 men allege, that the males alone are musical during spawn- 
 ing time, and that it is quite possible to capture them with- 
 out any bait, merely by imitating this peculiar sound.* It 
 is recorded that three fishermen, guided by this grunting 
 sound, dropt their net on one occasion so successfully as 
 to secure twenty-five of these fish at a single throw. One 
 alluded to by Cuvier as having been entangled in a net 
 spread along the shore at Dieppe, was at first found sleep- 
 ing ; but on being handled, it roused itself so suddenly, and 
 with such violence, as to precipitate the fisherman into the 
 water and force him to call for assistance before he could 
 
 ' * Encyclopaedia Britannica, article Ichthyology, 
 
202 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 * . -. * 
 
 become its master. High, though of course imaginary, vir- 
 tues were formerly attributed to the bones which occur in 
 the ear of this, as of other osseous fishes. They were worn 
 on the neck set in gold ; and Belon says they were called co- 
 lic-stones^ being renowned for the cure, and even prevention 
 of that complaint. It was necessary, however, that they 
 should be received as a gift, such as were purchased being 
 found to lose their virtue. As an article of food this fish 
 is considered good as well as wholesome. Mr Yarrell 
 states, that a specimen some time since was brought to the 
 London market ; part of the flesh was eaten by several per- 
 sons, and by all reported to be good, particularly by those 
 who prepared their portions by stewing ; when boiled, it 
 was rather dry and tasteless. 
 
 This fish very much resembles the bass in appearance, 
 but is readily distinguished from it in having no teetli on 
 the vomer or tongue ; these parts in the bass being well fur- 
 nished with teeth. 
 
 Although I have affixed the name of aquila to the present 
 fish, yet I am doubtful whether it be the aquila of Cuvier 
 or a different species. The fish described by Cuvier has 
 the preoperculum strongly serrated ; the middle rays of the 
 first dorsal fin the longest, and the anterior rays of the se- 
 cond dorsal fin shorter than the terminating ones. In the 
 present example the preoperculum is nearly entire, very 
 slightly notched on the inferior border; the second, third, 
 and fourth rays of the first dorsal the longest ; and the an- 
 terior rays of the second dorsal longer than those succeeding. 
 
 FAMILY IV. SPARID^E. Preoperculum and opercu- 
 lum without denticulations or spines ; palate without teeth ; 
 vertical fins without scales. 
 
THE SPANISH BREAM. 203 
 
 PAGOS* 
 
 GENUS j^ Front teeth conical, sharp and nu- 
 merous ; molars rounded. 
 
 PAGELLUS ERYTHRINUS.* THE SPANISH BREAM. 
 
 Specific Character. Origin of the lateral line slightly bent. (See 
 Plate XXVII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen nineteen inches in length. Body 
 rather deep, of an oval form ; sides compressed, covered with large 
 scales finely ciliated at their margins ; under jaw the longest ; oper- 
 culum and preoperculum entire, without denticulations or spines. 
 Colour of the body, pale silvery red ; dorsal and caudal fin rose-red ; 
 ventral and anal fins paler ; in front of the eye and on the lower 
 half of the preoperculum, metallic grey ; space between the eyes 
 reddish-brown. Dorsal fin commencing over the base of the pecto- 
 rals, and ending in a line over the last ray but two of the anal fin ; 
 first eleven rays strong and spiny, the remaining ones soft and flexible. 
 Anal fin commencing in a line under the last ray but seven of the 
 dorsal, and terminating a little behind the same fin ; ventrals situated 
 a little behind the base of the pectorals. Lateral line commencing 
 over the upper and posterior margin of the operculum, taking a slight 
 bend upwards, following the line of the back to the base of the tail ; 
 composed of sixty-seven scales. Pectoral fin long, the fourth ray 
 reaching to the first ray of the anal. Eyes small, placed nearer the 
 posterior margin of the operculum than to the point of the upper 
 jaw ; anterior part of the orbit situated considerably behind the angle 
 of the mouth ; cheeks covered with scales ; no scales before the eyes 
 or on the posterior-inferior part of the preoperculum, First three 
 rays of the anal fin spinous, the second spine much the stoutest and 
 shorter than the third ; the rest branched and flexible. Caudal fin 
 deeply forked, the middle ray about one-third the length of the 
 longest ray ; the intervening membrane covered with small scales, 
 to the end of the rays. Teeth numerous in both jaws, rather more so 
 on the lower ; those in the first row in front, sharp and conical, those 
 behind, fine and thickly set ; the molars rounded, arranged in two 
 rows in the lower jaw, and in three or more rows in the upper. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 23 ; P. 15 ; A. 12 ; V. 6 ; C. 17 ; Branchial rays 6. 
 
 This fish is said to be very abundant in the Mediterranean, 
 and even enters the Atlantic, advancing pretty far north. It 
 
 * Patjellus erythrinuS) Cnv., Yar., Jen, 
 
204 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 is, however, very rare along the British shores. Mr Yar- 
 rell states that " Mr Couch, with the exception of Mr 
 Walcott, seems to have been the only British naturalist ac- 
 quainted with its appearance on the English coast." The 
 former gentleman has noticed it in two or three instances 
 on the coast of Cornwall ; the latter, occasionally on the 
 coast of Devon. In the Firth of Forth I have seen it once, 
 where a fine specimen, nineteen inches in length, was cap- 
 tured in a salmon-net near Musselburgh. As food for the 
 table, this species is considered excellent. It feeds on crus- 
 taceous and testaceous animals, and occasionally small fishes. 
 
 The characters which distinguish this bream from others, 
 are eyes rather small ; the anterior margin of the orbit 
 placed behind the angle of the maxillary bone. Lateral line 
 0.1 its origin slightly bent, first taking a horizontal course 
 for half an inch, an oblique course for an inch, from thence 
 following the line of the dorsal curve to the tail ; origin 
 of the lateral line and base of the pectorals without a large 
 black spot. 
 
 In Pagellus acarne and Pagellus centrodontus the ante- 
 rior part of the orbit is placed in a line immediately over 
 the posterior angle of the maxillary bone, and the lateral 
 line from its commencement takes the curve of the line of 
 the back. In P. centrodontus there is a large black spot at 
 the origin of the lateral line, and in P. acarne a dark violet 
 coloured one, at the base of the upper part of the pectorals. 
 
 PAGELLUS ACARNE.* THE AXILLARY BREAM. 
 
 Specific Character. Dark violet-coloured spot at the base of the 
 tipper part of each pectoral fin. (See Plate XXVII.) 
 
 * Pagellus acarne, Cuv., Parnell. Proceedings of the Royal Society of 
 Edinburgh. 
 
THE AXILLARY BREAM. 205 
 
 Description. From a specimen thirteen inches in length. Body 
 of an oval form ; depth in the region of the pectorals four inches ; 
 sides compressed^ covered with large ciliated scales, producing a 
 roughness on the surface when the finger is passed from tail to head. 
 General form resembling that of the sea-bream, but not so deep in 
 proportion to its length. Dorsal line rounded, descending obliquely 
 from the nape to the nostrils, from thence more suddenly to the lips* 
 Colour of the body pale silvery-red ; dorsal and caudal fins rose-red ; 
 ventral and anal fins paler ; space between the eyes reddish-brown ; 
 in front of the eyes, and on the lower half of the preoperculum, 
 metallic grey ; on the upper part of the base of the pectorals a dark 
 violet-coloured spot, very conspicuous even in the dried fish. Eye 
 large, placed half-way between the tip of the upper jaw and the pos- 
 terior margin of the operculum ; its diameter one- fourth the length of 
 the head. Operculum and preoperculum entire, without spines or den- 
 ticulations. Lateral line commencing over the upper part of the opercu- 
 lum, following the line of the dorsal curve to the base of the tail ; com- 
 posed of seventy scales. Dorsal fin commencing over the posterior mar- 
 gin of the operculum, and ending in a line with the last ray of the anal 
 fin, its spiny rays twelve in number, sharp and stout ; the first spine 
 short, about half the length of the second ; the fourth the longest ; 
 the remainder gradually decreasing in height, to the commencement 
 of the flexible rays, which are longer than the terminating spiny rays. 
 Anal fin commencing under the third flexible ray of the dorsal, the 
 three first rays spiny, the rest soft. Pectorals and ventrals com- 
 mencing in the same line ; the sixth ray of the pectoral the longest, 
 reaching to the first ray of the anal. Tail forked, the middle ray 
 not half as long as the longest ray in the same fin. Jaws nearly of 
 equal length, the under rather the shorter ; anterior teeth small and 
 numerous, disposed in many rows ; the outer row composed of 
 thirty teeth, longer and more bent than those within ; molars large, dis- 
 posedin three rows in each jaw. (In one of the specimens under exa- 
 mination but two rows are perceptible and the teeth irregularly 
 placed.) The intervening membranes of the caudal, and the last two 
 rays of the dorsal and anal fins, covered with small thin scales, 
 diminishing in size as they approach the summit of the rays. Num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 D. 24 ; P. 16 V. 8 ; A. 14 ; C. 20 ; Branchial rays 6. 
 
 The above description is taken from a specimen cap- 
 tured in the Firth of Forth, in a salmon-net near Mus- 
 selburgh, in the early part of July. A few days after, a 
 second specimen was taken fr >m the same place, and brought 
 to the Edinburgh market, where it was called a bream. It 
 
206 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 appears to be an addition to the British Fauna, since no in- 
 stance has been hitherto recorded of its occurrence on the 
 coast of Britain. It is an inhabitant of the Mediterranean 
 Sea, and I have reason .to suppose that it has been found 
 more than once on the English coast, but mistaken for the 
 Pagrus vulgaris, which it greatly resembles ; for Mr Yar- 
 rell, in his description of that fish, says, " the pectoral fins 
 have occasionally a violet coloured spot at their origin,"" a 
 character which is constant in the acarne^ and which has 
 not been noticed by any other author as occurring in the 
 Pagrus vulgaris. 
 
 This species is at once distinguished from the rest of the 
 British breams, by the dark spot at the base of the pecto- 
 rals ; besides that character it is discriminated from Pug- 
 rus vulgar is, Pagellus erythrinus, and Pagellus centrodontus 
 in other respects. The Pagrus has never more than six 
 teeth in the first row, in front of each jaw, the acarne hav- 
 ing thirty in the first row on the upper jaw. 
 
 The Pagellus erythrinus has the origin of the lateral line 
 slightly bent, and the anterior part of the orbit placed behind 
 the posterior angle of the maxillary bone ; while the acarne 
 has the lateral line taking its course at once, parallel to 
 the curvature of the back, and the anterior margin of the 
 orbit in a line over the angle of the maxillary. 
 
 The Pagellus centrodontus has a large black spot at the 
 origin of the lateral line; while the acarne has the com- 
 mencement of the lateral line perfectly plain. 
 
 PAGELLCJS CENTRODONTUS.* THE SEA-BREAM. 
 
 Specific Characters. Origin of the lateral line with a large black 
 spot. (See Plate XXVII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length. Body of 
 
 * Pagellus centrodontus, Cuv., Yar. ; Spar us centrodontus, Jen. Sea- 
 Bream, Red Gilthead* Lunated Gilthead. 
 
THE SEA-BREAM. 207 
 
 an oval form, deep in proportion to its length; sides compressed, 
 covered with large ciliated scales, producing a roughness on the sur- 
 face ; operculum and preoperculum entire, without spines or denti- 
 culations. Colour of the body reddish-grey ; dorsal and caudal fins 
 brownish-red ; ventrals and anal paler ; belly dull white ; space be- 
 tween the eyes reddish-brown, in front of the eyes and on the lower 
 border of the preoperculum metallic grey. Eye large, placed half 
 way between the tip of the upper jaw and the origin of the lateral 
 line ; lateral line commencing over the upper part of the operculum, 
 taking its course parallel to the curvature of the back to the base of 
 the tail, composed of about seventy-two scales. Dorsal fin com- 
 mencing over the posterior margin of the operculum, and ending in 
 a line with the last ray of the anal fin ; its spiny rays twelve in num- 
 ber, sharp and stout ; the first spine shortest, about half the length 
 of the second; the fourth, fifth, and sixth the longest, the remainder 
 gradually decreasing in height to the commencement of the flexible 
 rays, which are longer than the terminating spiny rays ; anal fin cor- 
 responding with the flexible portion of the dorsal ; its three first 
 rays spiny, the rest soft ; pectorals and ventrals commencing in the 
 same line. (In Mr Yarrell's figure of this fish, the ventrals are 
 placed considerably before the base of the pectorals.) The fifth and 
 sixth rays of the pectorals the longest, reaching beyond the vent. 
 Tail forked, the middle ray not half as long as the longest ray in that 
 fin ; jaws nearly of equal length, the under rather the shorter ; teeth 
 fine and sharp in both jaws, smaller than in the two preceding spe- 
 cies, disposed in two or three rows in front ; molars small and round- 
 ed, placed far back, not easily seen, unless the jaws be widely ex- 
 panded. The intervening membranes of the caudal fin covered with 
 small thin scales. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 24 ; P. 17 ; V. 6 ; A. 15 ; C. 17 ; Branchial rays 6. 
 
 The sea-bream is one of the most common species in the 
 Mediterranean, and has been found to exist as far north as 
 off the coast of Denmark On the authority of Mr Couch, 
 " it is found on the west coast of England throughout the 
 year, but it is most abundant in the summer and autumn 
 months, and retreats altogether in severely cold weather. 
 The spawn is shed in the beginning of winter in deep wa- 
 ter ; and in January the 'chads, about an inch in length, 
 are "found in the stomachs of large fish, taken at two or 
 three leagues from land. In summer, when from four to 
 
208 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 six inches long, they abound in innumerable multitudes, 
 and are taken by anglers in harbours and from the rocks, 
 for they bite with great eagerness at any bait, even of the 
 flesh of their own species." " On the Irish coast it may be 
 traced from Waterford Bay and the north coast of Antrim, 
 where it is called Murranroe and Barwin."* On the De- 
 vonshire coast I have noticed it in abundance, taken in the 
 trawl-nets, as well as with lines, at Brixham. On the coast 
 of Sussex it is said to be by no means uncommon, but as 
 we advance further north on the east coast of Scotland, 
 it seems to become scarcer. In the Firth of Forth very 
 little is known regarding this fish, as its appearance there 
 is of rare occurrence. Two specimens, however, have been 
 noticed in the Firth ; the one was taken with a line baited 
 for cod near Inchcolm in the month of July, and the other 
 was found in a salmon-net above Queensferry. Their sto- 
 machs were crammed with shells and sea- weed. They feed 
 also on crustaceous animals and small fish. 
 
 The sea-bream is generally considered to be of little va- 
 lue for the table, but this seems to depend greatly on the 
 period of the year at which it is eaten and the mode in 
 which it is cooked. Mr Yarrell says that he will venture 
 to suggest a mode of preparing a sea-bream, which mate- 
 rially improves its more ordinary flavour. u When thorough- 
 ly cleaned the fish should be wiped dry, but none of the 
 scales should be taken off* ; in this state it should be boiled, 
 turning it often, and if the skin crack, flour it a little, to 
 keep the outer case entire. When on table, the whole skin 
 and scales turn off without difficulty ; and the muscle be- 
 neath, saturated with its own natural juices which the outer 
 covering has retained, will be found of good flavour."" The 
 
 * Yarreirs British Fishes. 
 
RAY'S BREAM. 209 
 
 flesh is white, solid, and sweet, having much the taste of 
 boiled lobster. 
 
 This fish is considered full grown when fifteen inches 
 long, at which time the origin of the lateral line is fur- 
 nished with a large black spot nearly an inch in length- 
 When the fish is young this spot is not perceptible. The 
 characters in which it differs from its congeners were no- 
 ticed when treating of the two preceding species. 
 
 FAMILY V. SQUAMIP INN ATI. Dorsal and anal 
 fins, or at least their soft portions, closely covered with 
 scales. 
 
 GENUS BRAMA. Both jaws, as well as the palatine 
 bones, with fine teeth. 
 
 BRAMA RAIL* RAY'S BREAM. 
 
 Specific Character. Base of the dorsal and anal fins, long* 
 Description. From a specimen eighteen inches in length. Body 
 of an oval form, deep in the region of the pectorals, tapering gradu- 
 ally towards the caudal extremity ; snout obtuse ; dorsal line round- 
 ted, descending obliquely from the fin to the forehead, from thence 
 suddenly to the upper lip. Sides compressed, covered with large 
 strong scales ; in front of the eyes and on the posterior part of the 
 preoperculum without scales ; colour of the back and sides silvery- 
 grey, between and in front of the eyes reddish-brown ; dorsal and 
 caudal fins brownish ; ventral and anal fin paler, tinged with light 
 yellow; lower parts of the sides and belly dull silvery; operculum 
 and preoperculum entire, without spines or denticulations. Eyes 
 large, placed nearer the nose than to the origin of the lateral line ; 
 dorsal fin commencing over the base of the pectorals, and ending 
 over the last ray of the anal ; the fourth ray the longest, rapidly de- 
 creasing in height to the ninth, the remainder of equal length ; anal 
 fin similar in form to the dorsal, commencing under the sixth ray ; 
 caudal fin lunate, each extremity greatly produced ; ventral fins 
 
 * Brama Rail, Cuv., Yar., Jen. ; Sparus Raii, Bloch ; Toothed Gilthead* 
 Pen. 
 
 VOL. VII. O 
 
210 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 rather small, placed under the base of the pectorals. Under jaw the 
 longest ; each jaw furnished with a number of sharp slender teeth, 
 those on the outer row longer than those behind ; palatines also fur- 
 nished with small card-like teeth. Lateral line commencing over the 
 upper part of the operculum, taking its course parallel to the dorsal 
 curve to the base of the tail ; nearly the whole surface of the vertical 
 fins covered with small scales. Number of fin rays 
 D. 36 ; P. 19 ; V. 7 ; A. 29 ; C. 26 ; Branchial rays 7. 
 
 Cuvier supposed that this fish was peculiar to the Medi- 
 terranean, and never found to enter the Atlantic. It has, 
 however, not only been captured several times on the Bri- 
 tish coast, but has been observed as far north as on the 
 coast of Denmark. Mr Couch has obtained two or more 
 specimens on the coast of Cornwall. Colonel Montagu 
 has recorded it as taken in Devonshire, and another at 
 Swansea. It is known at Belfast and said to be not un- 
 common on the western shores of Scotland. In the Firth of 
 Forth it has occurred frequently, and two or three speci- 
 mens are now in the College Museum of Edinburgh taken 
 from that locality. This bream seldom exceeds the length 
 of eighteen inches. According to Cuvier it spawns in sum- 
 mer. Its flesh is said to be good and wholesome, particu- 
 larly in the winter months, when in season. 
 
 FAMILY VI., SCOM BRIDGE. Vertical fins without 
 scales ; operculum and preoperculum without spines or den- 
 ticulations ; scales small, entire. 
 
 GENUS SCOMBER. Dorsal fins two, widely separate ; 
 sides of the tail raised into two small cutaneous crests ; fin- 
 lets behind the second dorsal and anal fins. 
 
 SCOMBER SCOMBER.* THE MACKEREL. 
 Specific Character. First dorsal fin with twelve rays. 
 * Scomber scomber. Linn., Yar., Jen. ; Scomber vulgaris, Flem~ 
 
THE MACKEREL. 211 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length. Body fu- 
 siform ; sides a little compressed ; slender and slightly angular towards 
 the tail. Colour of the back of a fine green varied with blue, mark- 
 ed with dark undulated lines placed vertically throughout its length ; 
 sides and belly silvery- white ; occasionally the back is of a dark 
 green, without marks of any description. Head sharp ; nose point- 
 ed ; first dorsal fin commencing behind the base of the pectorals, of 
 a triangular form ; the second ray the longest ; the remainder gra- 
 dually decreasing' ; second dorsal commencing a little in advance 
 of the anal ; not half the size of the first ; its length twice its 
 height ; between it and the caudal fin are five spurious finlets, placed 
 at equal distances from each other ; anal fin corresponding to the se- 
 cond dorsal, with the same number of finlets behind it j tail deeply 
 forked ; ventral fins situated a little behind the base of the pec- 
 torals. Teeth small and sharp, placed in a single row in each jaw, 
 as well on each side of the vomer ; operculum rather small ; round- 
 ed at its upper and posterior border ; extending to a point below, 
 at its junction with the posterior margin of the preoperculum ; 
 suboperculum large ; preoperculum much produced ; lateral line 
 commencing over the base of the pectorals, taking a slight curve at 
 its origin, from thence passing nearly in a straight line to the base 
 of the tail ; pectoral and ventral fins small, nearly of equal form and 
 size ; first dorsal fin when unexpanded, scarcely perceptible, placed 
 in a groove ; scales small, entire. On each side of the base of the 
 tail, are two small cutaneous crests giving a square form to that part. 
 Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 12 j 2d D. 12 ; P. 18 ; V. 6 ; A. 12 ; C. 17 ; Branchial rays 7. 
 
 The Mackerel, although taken in the Firth of Forth with 
 lines, in sufficient numbers to supply the different markets 
 in the neighbourhood, cannot be considered plentiful when 
 compared with the vast quantity caught on the English 
 coast at various periods of the year. They are first ob- 
 served in the Firth of Forth about the beginning of June, 
 confining themselves for the first month principally to the 
 neighbourhood of the Bass. In July they are taken off 
 Prestonpans, but more frequently at Largo, Buckhaven, 
 and Wemyss on the opposite coast. A few straggling in- 
 dividuals have occasionally been found as high up the 
 
212 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 estuary as Queensferry, and on one occasion I saw a small 
 specimen taken in the spirling nets near Alloa. After 
 October they are seldom seen in the Firth, but are sup- 
 posed to retire, like the other gregarious fishes, to the 
 deep sea until the following summer. " On the coast of 
 Ireland the mackerel is taken from the county of Kerry 
 in the west, along the southern shore eastward to Cork 
 and Waterford ; from thence northward to Antrim, and 
 north-west to Londonderry and Donegal. Dr MacCul- 
 loch says, it visits some of the lochs of the Western Is- 
 lands, but is not considered very abundant. On the Corn- 
 ish coast, this fish, in some seasons, occurs as early as the 
 month of March, and appears to be pursuing a course from 
 west to east. They are plentiful on the Devonshire coast, 
 and swarm in West Bay about June. On the Hampshire 
 and Sussex coast, particularly the latter, they arrive as 
 early as March, and sometimes even in February, and the 
 earlier in the year the fishermen go to look for them, the 
 farther from the shore do they seek for and find them. Du- 
 hamel says, the mackerel are caught earlier at Dunkirk, 
 than at Dieppe or Havre ; up our eastern coast, however, 
 the fishing is later. The fishermen of Lowestoffe and Yar- 
 mouth gain their great harvest from the mackerel in May 
 and June, and Mr Low in his Fauna Orcadensis, states, that 
 they do not make their appearance there till the last week 
 in July, or the first week in August."* 
 
 The mackerel, it is said, can be taken on the coast of 
 Cornwall every month in the year, but in much greater 
 plenty in the summer season than at any other time. It 
 spawns in June, and the young are seen from four to six 
 inches in length in the month of August, in great numbers, 
 
 * Yarrell's British Fishes,. 
 
THE BONITO. 213 
 
 along the Devonshire coast. Mr Couch considers them as 
 half grown in November, when they retire to deep water, 
 and are seen no more that winter. Whether the young 
 that are seen, of four or more inches in length, in the month 
 of August.be the production of the spawn shed in June of the 
 same or the preceding year, remains involved in considerable 
 doubt, and it would prove an object of interesting research 
 to discover the true growth. 
 
 The food of the mackerel is fry of other fish. Its flesh 
 is held in high estimation for the table, and should be eaten 
 when perfectly fresh. In the months of May and June it 
 is considered to be in best season. 
 
 At Dover, in the year 1808, mackerel were so plentiful 
 that they were sold at sixty for a shilling, and in the year 
 1821 the catch of sixteen boats from Lowestoffe amounted 
 to the value of L. 5252, and it is supposed that there was 
 no less an amount than L.I 4,000 altogether realized by the 
 owners and men concerned in the fishery of the Suffolk 
 coast.* 
 
 This species is distinguished from Scomber maculatus of 
 Couch, in having five more rays in the first dorsal fin, and 
 the sides being without spots. 
 
 GENUS THUNNUS. Dorsal fins two ; the first reach- 
 ing nearly to the second ; finlets behind the second dorsal 
 and anal fins. 
 
 THUNNUS PELAMYS-^ THE BONITO. 
 
 Specific Character. Behind the second dorsal fin eight finlets ; be- 
 hind the anal seven ; sides of the abdomen with four longitudinal 
 dusky bands. 
 
 * Paget, Nat. Hist, of Yarmouth. 
 
 f Thunnus pelamys^ Cuv., Yar. Scomber pelamys, Linn., Couch. Bo- 
 ni/o, Striped-bellied Tunny. 
 
214 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 Description. Length twenty-nine inches ; round ; close behind 
 the pectoral fin twenty inches ; head conical, ending in a point at 
 the nose ; under jaw projecting ; teeth few and small ; tongue flat 
 and thin ; nostrils obscure, not in a depression ; from the nose to 
 the eye two and a half inches ; gill-covers of two plates ; body 
 round to the vent ; from thence tapering to the tail ; near the tail de- 
 pressed ; lateral line at first descending and waved, becoming straight 
 opposite the anal fin, from thence ascending and terminating in an 
 elevated ridge, with another above and below the lateral line near 
 the tail. Eye elevated; round; iris silvery; from the nose to the 
 pectoral fin eight and three-quarter inches; the fin pointed; four 
 inches long ; received into a depression ; first dorsal fin seven inches 
 long, four inches high, lodged in a groove ; the first two rays stout ; 
 the others low; the body is most solid opposite the second dorsal, 
 which fin and the anal are falcate ; tail divided and slender ; ven- 
 tral fins in a depression : colour, a fine steel-blue, darker on the 
 back ; sides dusky ; whitish below. Behind the pectoral fins is a 
 bright triangular section of the surface, from which begin four dark 
 lines, that extend along each side of the belly to the tail ; scales few 
 like the mackerel. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 15 1+ 12, VIII. ; P. 27 ; V. 1 + 5; A. 2 + 12, VII; C. 35. 
 
 This fish was taken in a drift-net off the coast of Corn- 
 wall in July, at which time the roe was abundant. It had 
 no air-bladder ; intestines simple ; the muscle the colour of 
 beef, greatly charged with blood. It rarely takes a bait, 
 and is too wary to be often taken in a net. The above 
 description is taken from Mr Yarrell's work, on the autho- 
 rity of Mr Couch, in consequence of not possessing myself 
 a specimen of this fish. It has been found once in the 
 Firth of Forth, on the authority of Mr Charles Stewart, 
 Elem. Nat. Hist, vol. i. p. 363. Ur Scouler states that a 
 specimen was found in the Firth of Clyde in July 1832, and 
 which is now in the Andersonian Museum in Glasgow. 
 " The food of the bonito is fish, small cuttles, testaceous 
 animals, and marine vegetables. Its flesh is considered dry, 
 and by some even disagreeable. " 
 
 The Thynnus vulgaris differs from the present fish in 
 
THE SWORD-FISH. 215 
 
 having nine finlets above and below, and no abdominal 
 bands. 
 
 GENUS XIPHIAS. Dorsal fin one ; ventral fins want- 
 ing ; snout produced into a long sword-like process. 
 
 XIPHIAS GLADIUS.* THE SWORD-FISH. 
 
 Description. " Body elongated, nearly round posteriorly, a little 
 compressed in front ; depth increasing with the age, from one-tenth 
 to one-sixth of the entire length, reckoning this last from the end of 
 the sword to the extremity of the lobes of the tail ; sword three- 
 tenths ; upper part of the head vertical ; eye round ; its diameter 
 nearly two-thirds of the breadth of the cranium above it ; sword ter- 
 minating in a sharp point ; the edges cutting, and finely denticulat- 
 ed ; lower jaw likewise pointed, extending to where the upper sur- 
 face of the sword becomes horizontal ; no teeth in either of the jaws ; 
 pharyngeans only with fine teeth, like shorn velvet ; no true tongue ; 
 gill-opening large ; the branchiostegous membrane with seven rays ; 
 pectorals inserted very low down, sickle-shaped, one-seventh of the 
 entire length, this last being reckoned as before; ventrals none. 
 Dorsal commencing over the gill-opening, and extending in young 
 subjects to within a short distance of the caudal, its anterior portion 
 very much elevated and pointed ; rays rapidly decreasing from the 
 fifth to the eleventh, continuing low beyond that point to the thirty- 
 ninth or fortieth ; last three or four again elevated ; all the interme- 
 diate or low portion of the fin extremely delicate, and with the rays 
 more slender than those at the two extremities ; in adult individuals 
 often found very much torn, or even entirely destroyed, causing the 
 two elevated ends which are left to appear like two distinct fins ; anal 
 somewhat similar in shape to the dorsal, but much shorter, only com- 
 mencing in a line with its last third portion ; caudal crescent-shaped ; 
 the whole head and body covered with a somewhat rough skin, the 
 roughness arising from very minute scales ; opercule smooth ; lateral 
 line scarcely visible ; on each side of the tail a projecting horizontal 
 keel ; number of vertebrae, twenty-five. Colour of all the under 
 parts, fine silvery white ; upper parts tinged with dusky blue. Young 
 individuals, from twelve to eighteen inches in length, have the whole 
 body covered with little tubercles, disposed in longitudinal rows ; 
 these disappear first on the back, and afterwards on the belly ; they 
 
 * Xiphias gladius, Cuv., Yar., Jen., Linn., Pen., FJem. 
 
216 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 are no longer visible in individuals of three feet in length. Number 
 of fin rays 
 
 " D. 3-40 ; A. 2-15 ; C. 17 ; P. 16 ; B. 7."* 
 
 The sword-fish sometimes frequents our coasts, and spe- 
 cimens have occasionally been seen in the Firth of Forth, 
 at a considerable distance from the mouth of the estuary. 
 In the year 1826, an individual that measured seven feet 
 in length was found stranded on the banks between Stirling 
 and Alloa, and is now in the College Museum of Edin- 
 burgh. The sword-fish is well known in almost every part 
 of the Mediterranean, especially in that part of the sea 
 which separates Italy from Sicily. It has been seen off the 
 coast of Denmark, and several have been taken in various 
 parts of the Baltic of an enormous size. Mr Yarrell states 
 that " this fish is supposed to entertain great hostility to 
 the whale, and accounts of conflicts that have been wit- 
 nessed are recorded by mariners." Captain Crow, in a 
 work lately published, relates the following as having oc- 
 curred on a voyage to Memel : " One morning during a 
 calm, when near the Hebrides, all hands were called up at 
 three A.M., to witness a battle between several of the fish 
 called thrashers, or fox-sharks (Carcharias vulpes)^ and 
 some sword-fish on one side, and an enormous whale on the 
 other. It was in the middle of summer, and the weather 
 being clear, and the fish close to the vessel, we had a fine 
 opportunity of witnessing the contest. As soon as the 
 whale's back appeared above the water, the thrashers spring- 
 ing several yards into the air, descended with great violence 
 upon the object of their rancour, and inflicted upon him the 
 most severe slaps with their long tails, the sound of which 
 resembled the reports of muskets fired at a distance. The 
 
 * Jenyn's Vertebrate Animals (a most accurate description), 
 
THE SWORD-FISH. 217 
 
 sword-fish, in their turn, attacked the distressed whale, stab- 
 bing from below, and thus beset on all sides and wounded, 
 when the poor creature appeared, the water around him was 
 dyed with blood. In this manner they continued tormenting 
 and wounding him for many hours, until we lost sight of 
 him ; and I have no doubt they in the end completed "his 
 destruction. 11 
 
 " Their mode of capture in the Mediterranean may be 
 likened to whale-fishing in miniature, and is said to be a 
 very amusing and exciting sport. A watchman placed upon 
 a mark, or standing on the summit of a neighbouring rock, 
 gives warning by signal when he sees a fish approach. The 
 fishermen then row towards it, and, being very skilful, fre- 
 quently strike the fish from a great distance, by throwing 
 into it a harpoon attached to a long line. An arduous 
 struggle then commences, during which the aggressors are 
 sometimes pulled about by the fish for many hours before 
 they can get it into the boat. 
 
 " This fish is not only the largest species of the Euro- 
 pean seas, attaining sometimes to a length of fifteen feet, 
 but it is also much esteemed as an article of diet, when 
 young especially ; the flesh is white, firm, and of excellent 
 flavour."* 
 
 GENUS CARANX. Dorsal fins two, nearly contiguous ; 
 no finlets behind the second dorsal or anal fins. 
 
 CARANX TRACHimus.-f* THE HORSE-MACKEREL. 
 
 Specific Character. Lateral line with from seventy to seventy- 
 five large scaly laminae. , 
 
 Description. From a specimen eleven inches long. Head one- 
 
 * Encyclopaedia Britannica, article Ichthyology. 
 
 ^Caranx trachurus, Cuv., Yarr. ; Scomber trachurus, Linn.. Penn. ; Horse- 
 Mackerel. Scad. 
 
218 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 fourth of the whole length, including the caudal fin ; body fusiform, 
 of a quadrangular shape at the base of the tail ; eye large, placed 
 half-way between the point of the upper jaw, and the origin of the 
 lateral line, equal nearly to one-half the depth of the head ; preoper- 
 culum rounded, entire ;. operculum rather small, tapering to a point 
 below, half-way down the inner margin of the suboperculum. Colour 
 of the body above the lateral line dark- olive, with a greenish gloss ; 
 below silvery, with waved reflections ; on the posterior margin of the 
 operculum above the base of the pectoral fin, a large black mark. 
 First dorsal fin of a triangular form, commencing in aline a little be- 
 hind the origin of the pectorals, all its rays spiny and slender ; when 
 unexpanded scarcely perceptible, being lodged in a groove ; the third 
 ray the longest, the last extremely short ; the base of the fin about 
 equal to its height ; at the base of the first ray a short strong hori- 
 zontal spine, placed in a depression, with the point directed towards 
 the nose; second dorsal fin commencing immediately at the termi- 
 nation of the last, and ends at a short distance from the base of the 
 caudal fin ; the anterior rays longer than the terminating ones, all 
 soft and branched, except the first which is short and spiny ; anal 
 fins similar to the last in form but somewhat shorter, commencing in 
 a line under the end of the pectoral rays and terminating in a line 
 with the last ray of the second dorsal ; the first ray strong and spiny, 
 not half the length of the second which is soft and flexible, as well 
 as the remaining rays in that fin ; in front of the anal fin are two stout 
 spines, connected together by a fine membrane, concealed in a de- 
 pression when laid down ; ventrals placed under the base of the pec- 
 torals ; the sixth ray of the pectorals the longest, reaching as far as in 
 a line under the seventh ray of the second dorsal, and nearly twice 
 the length of the ventrals. Under jaw the longest ; both jaws, fur- 
 nished with very fine and slender teeth, as well as the vomer and pa- 
 latines ; the teeth are distinctly seen in the dried specimen, particu- 
 larly on the lower jaw. Lateral line commencing behind the upper 
 and posterior margin of the operculum taking its course parallel to 
 the curvature of the back to the commencement of the second dorsal 
 fin, then taking an oblique line downwards until in a line over the 
 first ray of the anal fin, from thence passing straight to the base of 
 the tail ; composed of seventy-four scaly laminse closely compacted ; 
 the greater part of the anterior scales are neither keeled nor pointed ; 
 the last thirty-eight are strongly keeled, and ending in sharp points 
 directed towards the tail ; those in a line with the last rays of the 
 anal fin, to the base of the long rays of the caudal fin are the highest 
 and strongest, becoming smaller as they approach the base of the 
 middle caudal rays, where they terminate. Body covered with small, 
 oval, entire, scales, very deciduous ; tail deeply forked, the middle 
 
THE HORSE-MACKEREL. 219 
 
 ray not half as long as the longest ray in that fin. Number of fin 
 rays v 
 
 1st D. 8 ; 2d D. 31 ; P. 21 ; V. 6 ; A. 27 ; C. 18 ; Branchial rays 7. 
 
 In the Firth of Forth, seldom more than a dozen or a 
 dozen arid a half^of these fish are taken throughout the year, 
 and these are found in the salmon nets at Musselburgh 
 and Queensferry, during the months of July, August, and 
 September. They are very uncertain visitants, for in the 
 year 1833 and 1834 scarcely a single specimen was observed 
 in the Firth, while on the English coast, they were seen and 
 taken in prodigious numbers. Mr Yarrell states, that in 
 July 1834 immense shoals were seen off the coast of Gla- 
 morganshire. They were first observed in the evening, and 
 the whole sea, as far as one could command it with the eye, 
 seemed to be in a state of fermentation with their numbers. 
 Every net was immediately put in requisition, so that they 
 were taken by cart-loads. Their feeding time appeared to 
 be morning and evening, when they were seen pursuing the 
 herring fry. According to Mr Couch, " they regularly 
 visit the coast of Cornwall and Devon, commonly in scat- 
 tered numbers, but occasionally in considerable shoals. The 
 first appearance of these fish is not until the end of April, 
 and are not abundant before the warm months, when some 
 may be found on board of every fishing boat. They are 
 rarely brought to market, and in many places even the fisher- 
 men are not in the habit of eating them ; in the west of 
 Cornwall, however, they are salted in the same way as 
 mackerel, and in this state meet with a ready sale in winter. 
 The usual habit of these fish is to keep near the ground ; but 
 when they assemble in pursuit of sandlaunce or other favour- 
 ite food, as they sometimes do in innumerable multitudes, 
 they become so eager as to thrust each other in heaps on the 
 sand." " On Tuesday evening, in the month of August, up- 
 
220 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 wards of ten thousand of these fish were taken by a foot 
 sean near Marazion. They frequently come so near the 
 shore as to enable persons to take them by hand. On Wed- 
 nesday evening another shoal appeared, when a number of 
 men, women, and children, went into the water to catch 
 them, while others stood on the sand to see them throw the 
 fish on shore ; and by this means a vast quantity were ob- 
 tained. The young keep near the shore after the larger 
 fish have retired to deep water." 
 
 The horse-mackerel is said to spawn in the month of June, 
 and has been found as far north as oft' the coast of Denmark. 
 The flesh is considered by some as inferior food, by others, 
 as far superior to that of the mackerel ; it is firm, of good 
 flavour, and wholesome, and is in best season in March 
 and April. 
 
 The large imbricated spinous plates forming the lateral 
 line, will distinguish this species from the rest of the Bri- 
 tish fishes. 
 
 GENUS ZEUS. Dorsal fin one ; ventrals thoracic ; body 
 oval, compressed. 
 
 ZEUS FABEII.* THE DORY. 
 
 Description. From a specimen a foot in length. Body oval, much 
 contracted at the base of the tail ; sides and cheeks greatly compress- 
 ed ; head large, one-third of the entire length including the caudal fin. 
 Colour of the body olive grey, tinged with yellow ; in the middle of 
 the side a large black spot with a whitish circle ; ventrals darker than 
 the other fins ; dorsal fin divided in the middle by a deep notch, ap- 
 pearing at first as if it were two fins ; the anterior part spinous and 
 the rest soft, commencing in a line over the base of the pectorals, 
 and ending within a short distance of the base of the caudal fin ; the 
 first ray shorter than the second ; the third, fourth, and fifth, nearly 
 of equal height ; the intervening membranes of the spiny rays about 
 
 * Zeus faber, Linn., Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Penn., Don.,Flem., Bloch ; Dory, 
 John Dory. 
 
THE DORY. 221 
 
 twice as long as the rays themselves ; the first rays of the soft por- 
 tion very short, gradually increasing to the seventh, the remainder 
 of equal length, not half as high as the spinous rays ; the soft part of 
 the anal fin answering to that of the dorsal; the spinous portion with 
 four stout rays commencing in a line under the sixth ray of the dor- 
 sal ; the intervening membrane not twice as long as the rays ; ven- 
 tral fins placed before the base of the pectorals, the rays extending 
 as far as to the second ray of the anal ; pectorals small not reaching 
 beyond the middle of the lateral spot. Eyes moderate, rather remote 
 from the snout, situated half-way between the point of the upper jaw 
 and the fourth ray of the dorsal fin. Operculum small, entire, of a 
 triangular form ; two spines occasionally behind the eye directed 
 backwards, and one on each side of the occiput ; a row of sharp spines 
 on each side of the base of the dorsal and anal fins, at first simple, 
 afterwards forked j between the ventrals and anal a double row of 
 large, strongly-serrated scales, the serratures pointing towards the 
 tail ; pectoral ridge before the ventrals, with three rows of the same 
 serratures ; lateral line commencing in a line with the upper margin 
 of the orbit, descending gradually down till opposite the middle of 
 the soft portion of the dorsal fin, from thence passing straight to the 
 tail. Scales of the body small and adherent, deeply impressed ; 
 mouth very protractile, under jaw the longest ; teeth, in both jaws, 
 arranged in two or three rows, with their points directed inwards 
 (Mr Yarrell states, that the teeth are placed in a single row in each 
 jaw) ; tail rounded at the end. Number of fin rays 
 D. 33 ; P. 13 ; V. 8 ; A. 27 ; C. 12 ; Branchial rays 7. 
 
 The Dory, or John Dory as it is sometimes named, is 
 said to be a common fish in the Mediterranean. It enters 
 the Atlantic and is taken of large size in the Bay of Biscay 
 off' the French coast. On the south coast of England, par- 
 ticularly off that of Cornwall, these fish are in great abun- 
 dance ; but the farther north we proceed on the eastern 
 shores, they become of less frequent occurrence. In the 
 Firth of Forth seldom more than one or two are seen in 
 the course of the year, generally at the mouth of the Firth, 
 or on the sandy banks in Guillon Bay. 
 
 Among the superstitious, the Dory disputes with the 
 Haddock the honour of having been the fish out of whose 
 
222 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 mouth St Peter took the tribute-money, on which occasion 
 he is said to have left the mark of his finger and thumb 
 on their sides, as both of these fishes possess this charac- 
 teristic marking. But another version of the legend will 
 enable the lover of such stories to leave each in possession 
 of an equal honour, for St Christopher, in wading through 
 an arm of the sea, having caught up a Dory, is reported to 
 have perpetuated the circumstance by impressing on it the 
 mark of his finger and thumb. A long time elapsed be- 
 fore this fish was used as food in Britain. Quin the actor 
 and bon vivant established its edible reputation. " It is 
 now, adds Colonel Montagu, about sixty years since (from 
 1814) the celebrated Mr Quin, of epicurean notoriety, first 
 discovered the real merit of the dory, and we believe from 
 him originated the familiar, and we may say national epi- 
 thet of John Dory, as a special mark of his esteem for this 
 fish ; a name by which it is usually known in some parts, 
 especially at Bath, where Quins celebrity as the prince of 
 epicures was well known, and where his palate finished its 
 voluptuous career.*" 
 
 " Mr Couch considers the Dory as rather a wandering 
 than a migratory fish, and its motions are chiefly regulated 
 by those of the smaller kinds on which it preys. When the 
 Pilchards approach the shores, the Dory is often taken in 
 considerable numbers. In the autumn of 1829, more than 
 sixty were hauled on shore at once in a net, some of them 
 of large size, and yet the whole sold together for nine shil- 
 lings. It continues common until the end of winter, after 
 which it is more rare, but never scarce. The form of the 
 Dory would seem to render it incapable of much activity, 
 and it is sometimes seen floating along with the current ra- 
 ther than swimming, yet some circumstances favour the idea 
 
THE OPAH. '22 o 
 
 that it is able to make its way with considerable activity. 
 It keeps pace with schulls of Pilchards, so, that some are 
 usually enclosed in the sean with them ; it also devours the 
 common cuttle, a creature of vigilance and celerity, and I 
 have seen a cuttle of a few inches long taken from the sto- 
 mach of a Dory that measured only four inches. It takes 
 the hook, but gives the preference to a living bait, and a 
 chad hooked through the back, with the prickly dorsal fin 
 cut off, is sure to entice it.*"* 
 
 Pennant speaks of a Dory which weighed twelve pounds. 
 One of half that weight is considered above the average 
 size. 
 
 GENUS LAMPRIS. Dorsal fin one ; teeth wanting ; 
 ventrals abdominal. 
 
 LAMPRIS GUTTATUS.^ THE OPAH. 
 (See Plate XXVII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen three feet in length. Body deep ; 
 of an oval form ; sides compressed ; head about one-third the length 
 of the body, not including the caudal fin ; eyes large, placed nearer 
 the point of the upper jaw than to the posterior margin of the oper- 
 culum. Colour of the back a deep greenish blue ; sides rich green, re- 
 flecting in different lights purple and gold, with a number of yellowish- 
 white spots ; belly pale yellowish- green ; all the fins rich scarlet, as 
 well as the irides ; dorsal fin commencing in a line over the anterior 
 part of the base of the pectorals, and ending at a short distance from 
 the caudal fin ; first two rays spiny ; the five succeeding ones the high- 
 est, gradually decreasing to the seventeenth, which is not one-fourth 
 the height of the third ; the remainder nearly equal, becoming rather 
 longer towards the last ray ; anal fin about half the length of the dor- 
 sal ; the anterior rays longer than the terminating ones ; ventrals, 
 placed some distance behind the base of the pectorals, and reaching 
 beyond the twelfth ray of the anal ; pectorals not as long as the veri- 
 
 Yarrell's British Fishes. 
 
 j- Lampris guttatus, Cuv., Yarr. ; Lampris luna, Flem. ; Zeus luna, Pen., 
 Don. Opah, King-fish. 
 
224 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 trals, but of the same falcated forms ; tail lunated ; lateral line com- 
 mencing over the operculum, taking a high curve under the first ray 
 of the dorsal, from thence passing obliquely down for half its length, 
 then straight to the base of the tail j jaws without teeth ; tongue 
 rough ; preoperculum produced behind, smooth, and entire. Num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 D.53; P. 26; V. 10 ; A. 24; C. 30. 
 
 Examples of this fish have been recorded, as taken at se- 
 veral different periods on the British coast. The first was 
 found by some fishermen at Leith, and described by Dr 
 Mortimer in the Philosophical Transactions in 1750, and 
 the specimen was exhibited at a meeting of the Royal So- 
 ciety of Edinburgh. Since then it has been seen in the 
 Firth of Forth at six different times. The last was found in 
 July 1835, washed ashore on some rocks to the west of 
 North Queensferry ; its length was five feet, weighing, 
 as nearly as the men could compute, eleven stones. The 
 head of it I preserved ; the body was cut up, taken away, 
 and eaten by the fishermen, who stated that the flesh was 
 red, remarkably good, equal to that of the salmon, and 
 very much of the same flavour. They said they only wish- 
 ed they had more of them. Another was seen at the same 
 time and place, but, in consequence of the weather being 
 very stormy, they were unable to procure it. 
 
 Mr Yarrell states, on the authority of Professor Rein- 
 hardt, that within the last thirty years three specimens have 
 been taken on the coast of Denmark, and, what is remark- 
 able, they were all caught very near the same spot. 
 
 FAMILY VII. MUG ILID^E. Body covered with large 
 scales ; dorsals two, widely separate ; ventrals placed be- 
 hind the pectorals ; branchiostegous membrane with six 
 rays ; tail forked or lunated ; caeca two ; intestine long and 
 folded. 
 
THE GREY MULLET. 225 
 
 GENUS MUGIL. Body possessing no broad silvery band 
 along each side ; first dorsal fin with four spiny rays. 
 
 MUGIL CAPITO.* THE GREY MULLET. 
 
 Specific Characters. Maxillary visible when the mouth is closed ; 
 orifices of the nostril near together ; the skin at the margin of the 
 orbit not advancing upon the eye ; scale above the pectoral short 
 and obtuse. (See Plate XXVIII.) 
 
 Description. Back but little elevated ; ventral line more convex 
 than the dorsal ; greatest depth beneath the first dorsal about one- 
 fourth of the whole length, excluding caudal; greatest thickness 
 nearly two- thirds of the depth. Head broad and depressed ; snout 
 short, transversely blunt and rounded, but vertically sharp ; mouth 
 very protractile, transverse angular. Teeth in the jaws scarcely per- 
 ceptible ; on the tongue, vomer, and palatines, more developed ; 
 maxillary visible when the mouth is closed, and not retiring beneath 
 the infra orbital ; upper lip rather thick and fleshy, margined with 
 a number of close-set minute pectinations. Eyes rather high up ; the 
 skin at the anterior and posterior margins of the orbit not advancing 
 over any portion of the iride ; nostrils double on each side : the two 
 orifices placed near together, the anterior one round, the posterior 
 one oblong ; head smooth, all the upper part covered with large po- 
 lygonal scales. Scales on the body large, but smaller than the above, 
 deciduous ; first dorsal commencing about the middle, its height 
 twice its length ; spines strong ; the first two equal and longest ; se- 
 cond dorsal considerably behind the first, its height and length the 
 same as in that fin ; all the rays, except the first, branched ; caudal 
 forked ; anal rather in advance of the second dorsal, somewhat longer 
 than that fin, but of the same height ; pectorals about three-fourths 
 of the length of the head ; second, third, and fourth rays longest ; 
 all the rays, except the first, branched j ventrals a little behind the 
 pectorals, close together, somewhat shorter ; first ray strongly spi- 
 nous ', second soft ray longsst. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 4-9 ; A. 3-9 ; C. 14 ; P. 17 ; V. 1-5 ; B. 6. 
 
 Colours. Back dusky blue ; sides and belly silvery, the former 
 marked with several parallel longitudinal dark lines. 
 
 The above description is taken from Jenyns's Vertebrate Animals. 
 
 * Mugil capita, Cuv., Yar., Jen. Mugil cephalus* Penn., Don., Flem. 
 VOL. VII. P 
 
226 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 This fish, on the authority of Dr Neill, is occasionally 
 found in the Firth of Forth, as recorded in the Wernerian 
 Transactions, vol. i. p. 544, under the name of Mugil ce- 
 phalus, which is now supposed to be the M. capita of Cu- 
 vier. 
 
 The following is from the work of Mr Yarrell : " Baron 
 Cuvier, in the last edition of his Regne Animal, states, in 
 a note at the foot of page 231, that Linnaeus and several of 
 his successors have confounded all the European Grey 
 Mullets under one common name, that of Mugil cephalus. 
 He has, however, distinguished among them several species, 
 and, according to him, the description of the cephalus of 
 Willoughby and the figure of the cephalus of Pennant both 
 appear to belong to the M. capita of the Regne Animal. 
 
 u Mugil cephalus of Cuvier is distinguished by having its 
 eyes partly covered with a semi-transparent membrane, ad- 
 hering to the anterior and posterior edges of the orbit, and 
 also by a larger elongated triangular scale pointing back- 
 wards, placed just over the origin of the pectoral fin on. 
 each side. (See Plate XXVIII.) 
 
 " Our most common Grey Mullet may, therefore, be 
 considered as the M. capita of Cuvier, an inhabitant not 
 only of the Mediterranean, but also of all the western shores 
 of the more temperate part of Europe. In Ireland this 
 fish occurs on the coast of the northern counties of London- 
 derry and Antrim ; in the south, on those of Cork and 
 Waterford, and, probably, at many intermediate points, 
 It is found plentifully in Cornwall and Devonshire, and 
 along the whole line of our south coast. It occurs con- 
 stantly on the Kentish and Essex coast, is taken at Yar- 
 mouth, and it has been traced to the Baltic and the west 
 coast of Norway." 
 
 It is a singular fact, although common as this fish appears 
 
THE GREY MULLET. 227 
 
 from the above description, that not a single specimen has 
 fallen under my notice ; those which I have examined 
 being the M. chelo of Cuvier (the next fish to be described), 
 and not M. capita , which, according to my observation, is 
 by far the rarer fish of the two. 
 
 " The Grey Mullet never goes to a great distance from 
 land, but delights in shallow water, when the weather is 
 warm and fine, at which time it is seen prowling near the 
 margin in search of food, and imprinting a dimple on the 
 placid surface, as it snatches beneath any oily substance 
 that may chance to be swimming. It selects food that is 
 soft and fat, or such as has begun to suffer decomposition, 
 in search of which it is often seen thrusting its mouth into 
 soft mud ; and, for selecting it, the lips appear to be fur- 
 nished with exquisite sensibility of taste. 
 
 " The Grey Mullets shed their spawn about Midsum- 
 mer ; and the young in August, then an inch long, are 
 seen entering the fresh water, keeping at some distance 
 above the tide, but retiring as it recedes. Mr Arnould 
 put a number of the fry of the grey mullet about the size 
 of a finger into his pond at Guernsey, which is about three 
 acres area, and after a few years, mullets of four pounds 
 weight were caught, which proved to be fatter, deeper, and 
 heavier 1 for their length, than others obtained from the sea. 
 Of all the various salt-water fishes introduced, the Grey 
 Mullet appeared to be the most improved. A slight change 
 in the external colour is said to be visible." 
 
 These fish are with some difficulty taken in the sean, ex- 
 cept by those who are familiar with their habits, for when 
 they find themselves enclosed, and danger at hand, they es- 
 cape by leaping over the body of the net, and, as soon as 
 one takes the lead, the rest follow immediately in succession. 
 
FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 MUGIL CHELO.* THE THICK-LIPPED GREY MULLET. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper lip thick and fleshy ; base of the last 
 ray of the first dorsal half-way between the point of the snout and 
 the base of the middle caudal ray ; maxillary visible when the mouth 
 is closed. (See Plate XXVIII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen fourteen inches and a half in length. 
 Back but little elevated ; ventral line more convex than the dorsal ; 
 greatest depth beneath the first dorsal, about one-fourth of the whole 
 length, excluding caudal ; greatest thickness nearly two- thirds of the 
 depth. Head broad and depressed ; snout short, transversely blunt 
 and rounded, but vertically sharp ; mouth very protractile, transverse, 
 angular ; lower jaw divided in the middle by an ascending angular 
 point, which, when the mouth is closed, passes within the upper 
 jaw. Teeth in the jaws, scarcely perceptible ; on the tongue, vomer, 
 and palatines, more developed ; maxillary at its lower edge sinuous 
 and entire, visible when the mouth is closed, and not retiring beneath 
 the infra orbital. (In Mr Couch's description of this fish, the poste- 
 rior edge of the superior maxillary bone is said to be minutely notch- 
 ed.) Upper lip thick and fleshy, margined with a number of close 
 set minute pectinations ; suborbital plate finely toothed on its lower 
 margin ; eyes rather high up ; the skin at the anterior and posterior 
 margins of the orbit not advancing over any portion of the iride, as 
 it is observed to do in M. cephalus. Nostrils double on each side ; 
 the two orifices placed near together, the anterior one round, the 
 posterior one oblong ; head smooth ; all the upper part covered with 
 large polygonal scales, as well as the cheeks and operculum ; scales 
 of the body large, deciduous ; First dorsal commencing above the 
 middle ; the base of the fourth or last ray, exactly midway between 
 the point of the upper jaw and the base of the middle caudal ray ; 
 the base of the first ray, half-way between the posterior border of 
 the operculum and the third ray of the second dorsal ; second dor- 
 sal remote from the first, commencing in a line over the third ray of 
 the anal, and terminating a little behind the last ray, situated nearer 
 the point of the long caudal rays than to the base of the pectorals ; 
 the last ray exactly midway between the base of the first dorsal ray 
 and the tip of the middle ray of the tail. Ventrals placed half-way 
 between the tip of the jaw and the first ray of the anal, and behind 
 the base of the pectorals ; first three rays of the first dorsal com- 
 mencing very close together, the fourth remote, much shorter and 
 smaller than the two first, which are of equal length, longer than the 
 base of the fin ; first two rays of the second dorsal fin spiny, shorter 
 
 Mtigilchelo, Cuv., Jen., Yar., Couch. 
 
THE THICK-LIPPED GREY MULLET. 229 
 
 than the third, which is the longest, and like the remainder soft and 
 flexible ; the sixth ray as long as the base of the fin ; anal fin con- 
 cave, with the last ray but two the shortest, of the same form 
 as the second dorsal but rather larger. Caudal forked or lunate, 
 depending on the width of expansion ; pectorals about three-fourths 
 of the length of the head, the second, third, and fourth rays longest ; 
 all the rays except the first branched; ventrals somewhat shorter, 
 all the rays soft and branched, except the first which is spiny ; last 
 ray connected to the body by a fine membrane passing off from half 
 way up its length. Intervening membranes of the caudal fin covered 
 with small scales, which dimmish in size as they approach the sum- 
 mits. Colour of the back dusky blue ; sides and belly silvery ; the 
 former marked with seven or eight longitudinal dark lines. Num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 IstD. 4; 2dD. 10; P. 15 ; V. 6; A. 11 ; C. 14; B. 6. 
 
 According to Mr Yarrell, Mr Couch is the only natu- 
 ralist who has noticed the appearance of Mugil chelo on 
 the British coast. " This fish,"" says Mr Couch, " is gre- 
 garious, frequenting harbours and the mouths of rivers, in 
 the winter months, in large numbers, all of which are just 
 of one size." 
 
 It is singular that this fish, as common as it is on many 
 parts of the British coast, should have been so long mista- 
 ken for the Mugil cephalus of Cuvier, and still is by many 
 confounded with the Mugil capito. Dr Hancock appears 
 to have been the first of our own naturalists to remark that 
 the grey mullet of the British coast was not the true Mu- 
 gil cephalus. He named it M. Britannicus* 
 
 This fish I have observed to be excessively common in 
 the months of September and October on the Devonshire 
 coast, particularly off Exmouth, Teignmouth, and Brix- 
 ham. I have found it common on the west coast of Scot- 
 land, and occasionally large shoals of them appear on the 
 east coast. Dr Johnston has noticed it off Berwick, and in 
 
 * Lond. Quart. Journ, of Science, 1830, p. 129, on the authority of'Jenyns. 
 
230 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 some seasons numbers are taken off Dunbar, and sent to 
 the different markets for sale. 
 
 Scarcely a summer passes but that a few are found at 
 the different fishing stations in the Firth of Forth, and oc- 
 casionally of large size. A specimen was taken in the Hope- 
 toun salmon nets, in June 1835, which measured twenty- 
 three inches in length, although the common size is about 
 a foot. 
 
 Mugil chelo is distinguished from M. capita, in the oper- 
 culum being smaller ; the upper lip thicker ; the suborbi- 
 tal larger, and nearly even at its inferior margin ; which in 
 M. capita is small and rounded at the end. 
 
 If we refer to Mr Yarrell's figure of M. capita, we shall find 
 M. chelo to differ in other respects. The base of the fourth ray 
 of the first dorsal fin in M. chelo is placed exactly half-way be- 
 tween the point of the lip and the base of the middle caudal 
 ray ; whereas the base of the same ray in M. capita, is placed 
 exactly mid-way between the point of the lip, and the end 
 of the middle caudal ray. 
 
 The fish from which the above description is taken, agrees 
 in every respect with the figure Mr Yarrell has given of 
 Mugil chelo. 
 
 GENUS ATHERINA.BoAy with a broad silvery band 
 along each side ; first dorsal fin with four rays. 
 
 ATHERINA PRESBYTER.* THE SAND-SMELT. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Body ra- 
 ther elongated j sides slightly compressed ; head, from the point of 
 the upper jaw to the posterior border of the operculum, one-fifth of 
 the whole length, caudal fin not included. Colour of the back and 
 sides pellucid greyish- white ; belly yellowish- white ; sides marked 
 
 * Atherinajpresbyter, Cuv., Yai., Jen. Atherina hepsetus, Pen., Flem., 
 Don. Sand-smelt^ Atherine, 
 
THE SAND-SMELT. 231 
 
 with a broad silvery band, with a tinge of blue, extending from the 
 operculum to the base of the tail. Snout short and blunt, very pro- 
 tractile ; under jaw the longest, when the mouth is open ; teeth 
 small and sharp in each jaw, as well as on the vomer and posterior 
 part of the palatines ; eyes large, extending below the middle of the 
 cheeks ; operculum rounded and entire ; preoperculum angular ; be- 
 tween the eyes, a small elevated ridge, extending back nearly to -the 
 * nape. First dorsal fin with slender spinous rays, commencing over 
 the middle of the ventrals ; third and fourth rays the longest ; the 
 last the shortest, not half the length of the first. Second dorsal re- 
 mote from the first, commencing in a line over the third ray of the 
 anal, and ending over the last ray; the first ray spiny; the rest flexi- 
 ble and branched ; the second and third the longest ; the ninth the 
 shortest. Anal fin corresponding with the second dorsal, but rather 
 longer ; ventrals commencing in a vertical line with the tips of the 
 long pectoral rays, and ending in a line with the base of the last ray of 
 the first dorsal ; pectorals as long as from the point of the lower jaw, 
 when open, to the posterior margin of the orbit ; the second and 
 third rays the longest ; the first simple, the rest branched. Scales 
 along the lateral silvery band, about fifty-six in number, becoming 
 very small at the base of the caudal fin. Head and fins more or less 
 freckled with small black spots ; tail forked. Number of fin rays 
 IstD. 8; 2dD. 13; P. 15 ; V. 6; A. 15; C. 17; B. 6. 
 
 Mr Yarrell was the first British naturalist to notice that 
 the atherine, which is found so common on the southern 
 shores of England, was not the Atherina hepsetus of Lin- 
 naeus, as Pennant, Donovan, Fleming, and other authors 
 supposed it ; but the Atherina presbyter of Cuvier, which 
 is quite a different species. The atherine, says Colonel 
 Montagu, is as plentiful on some parts of the southern coast 
 of England as the smelt is on the eastern coast, and each 
 appears to have its limits, so that the one does not intrude 
 upon the other; at least, as far as our observation has gone, 
 where one is the other is not. We have traced the smelt 
 along the coast of Lincolnshire, and southwards into Kent, 
 where the atherine appears to be unknown ; but in Hamp- 
 shire the atherine is extremely plentiful, esr^cially about 
 Southampton, where, for want of knowing the true smelt, 
 
FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 this is sold under that denomination. On the south coast 
 of Devon they are caught in great abundance in the creeks 
 and estuaries, but never in rivers above the flow of the tide; 
 and they appear to continue near shore through the months 
 from autumn to spring, being caught for the table more or 
 less during the whole of that time, but are greatly superior 
 in the spring, when the males are full of milt as the females 
 are of roe. The atherine is a well-flavoured fish, but, in 
 our opinion, not so good as the smelt it is more dry ; but 
 when in season, and fried without being embowelled, the 
 liver and roe make it a delicious fish. 
 
 Mr Couch says it is found in Cornwall at all seasons, and 
 sometimes in such numbers that three small boat-loads have 
 been enclosed in a sean at once. 
 
 Dr Neill states, in vol. i. of the Wernerian Transactions, 
 that " he has frequently found the atherine washed ashore 
 about Figget Whin sin the Firth of Forth after easterly winds." 
 Of late years they have been undoubtedly scarce. Two in- 
 stances only have occurred to me, in which the atherine was 
 found in the Firth of Forth ; the first was taken at Kincar- 
 dine in company with sprats and other small fish ; the se- 
 cond was drawn ashore in a net, about two miles west of 
 Newhaven. The fishermen said it was more frequently 
 met with in Guillon Bay, and that they considered the fish 
 was nothing else than a sort of mongrel spirting* 
 
 FAMILY VIII., GOBIAD^E. Dorsal rays slender and 
 flexible, excepting the species Murcenoides guttata, where 
 they are short, stout, and sharp-pointed ; scales small or 
 entirely wanting ; tail founded at the end ; body more or 
 less elongated, with one or two dorsal fins. The genus 
 Zoarces is destitute of spiny rays, but has an anal tubercle. 
 * Spirting, Salmo eperlanus, very common in the Forth. 
 
THE SMOOTH BLENNY. 233 
 
 The viscera of all the fishes pertaining to this family are 
 nearly of the same conformation; the intestinal canal is 
 equal, ample, and without caeca, and there is no swimming- 
 bladder. 
 
 GENUS BLENNIUS. Body rather elongated, with a 
 single dorsal fin, composed almost entirely of simple and 
 flexible rays ; ventral fins placed before the pectorals and 
 formed of two or three rays in each ; teeth on the vomer, 
 and in one row in each jaw ; dorsal and caudal fins separate. 
 
 BLENNIUS PHOLIS.* THE SMOOTH BLENNY. 
 
 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fin abbreviated in the middle ; head 
 smooth and destitute of appendages ; last tooth in each jaw slightly 
 curved and longer than the rest. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Body be- 
 hind, rather compressed ; head one-fourth of the entire length, tail fin 
 not included ; sides smooth, covered with a mucous secretion ; gill- 
 opening large ; the membrane continued across the throat. Colour 
 very variable, some specimens quite black, others of a deep olive-green, 
 occasionally variegated like marble. Head sloping from the nape to 
 the orbit, from thence suddenly to the lip ; snout short and obtuse ; 
 eye moderate, placed high up ; dorsal fin extending the whole length 
 of the back, commencing in aline over the origin of the ventrals, and 
 ending within a short distance of the base of the caudal rays ; all 
 the rays simple, the first shorter than the second ; fifth, sixth and se- 
 venth, slightly the longest ; eighth and following ones decreasing to 
 the twelfth, which is the shortest and finest in the whole fin, from the 
 fourteenth to the twenty-eighth nearly even, the remainder a very 
 little shorter ; the last connected to the base of the tail by a mem- 
 brane which passes off from the summit as not to allow the ray to 
 take an erect position. Anal fin commencing in a line under the 
 thirteenth ray of the dorsal, and ending in a line under the last 
 ray of that fin ; first ray shorter than the second, the rest increasing 
 very gradually to the last, which is somewhat shorter and connected 
 to the base of the tail by a membrane similar to that of the last ray 
 of the dorsal, but not extending quite so far towards the short rays 
 
 * Blennius pholis, Yarr., Linn., Cuv., Jen., Pen., Don. ; Pholis levis, 
 Flem. ; Smooth Blenny, Smooth Shan, Shanny, Stone-fish. 
 
234 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 of the caudal. Pectoral fin large and rounded ; the middle rays the 
 longest, extending as far as in a line under the eleventh ray of the 
 dorsal ; ventral fins small and stout, placed before the base of the 
 pectorals, the longest ray as long as the third ray of the pectorals. 
 Caudal fin rounded at the end, the middle rays branched. Teeth, 
 twenty-one in the lower jaw, and twenty-four on the upper ; ante- 
 rior ones longest, the last stoutest and slightly curved inwards ; on 
 the vomer four, two on each side, short, stout, and very strong. 
 Lateral line commencing over the operculum running straight for a 
 short course, taking a curve over the pectorals, as far as under the 
 ninth ray of the dorsal, from thence passing straight to the base of 
 the middle caudal ray. Number of fin rays 
 D. 30; P. 13; V. 2 or 3 ; A. 19; C. 12; B. 6. 
 
 . This species of Blenny is common on most of the rocky 
 parts of our coast, and nowhere more so than in the Firth 
 of Forth, where it is found in great numbers under rocks 
 and stones. In almost every pool left by the receding of 
 the tide they abound particularly in the neighbourhood of 
 North Berwick. Though so common, however, yet spe- 
 cimens are with difficulty procured, not only on account of 
 their activity, but also because the large stones under which 
 they conceal themselves are with difficulty removed ; and 
 unless that be accomplished, it will be almost impossible to 
 obtain a single specimen. In the month of August I ob- 
 served many of these fish in a small pool of water which 
 had been left by the tide, and after dipping the place dry, 
 to my astonishment, they had all disappeared, and taken 
 refuge under some sea-weed a foot and a half distant 
 from the pool. By means of their strong ventral fins they 
 are enabled to crawl several feet on dry land, and will re- 
 main six hours under stones or sea-weed, awaiting the re- 
 turn of the tide. The Blenny is remarkably tenacious of 
 life, and has been known to live out of water for many 
 days in a damp situation ; but, if put into fresh water, it 
 soon expires. 
 
 These fish will take eagerly a baited hook, and are often 
 
THE SPOTTED GUNNEL. 235 
 
 captured off the pier-head at Leith. Their principal food 
 is small shells and young crabs; and I have also found their 
 stomachs distended with sea- weed. They spawn in the month 
 of June, and possess no swimming-bladder. They are never 
 brought to market or used as food. 
 
 All the British species of Blennius, excepting the pre- 
 sent one, are furnished with one or more appendages placed 
 on the head in the region of the orbits. 
 
 GENUS MURJENOIDES.Bodiy elongated, sword- 
 shaped, with a single dorsal fin composed of short stout rays ; 
 ventral fins placed before the pectorals, reduced nearly to 
 a single ray ; teeth on the vomer, and in two rows in each 
 jaw ; dorsal and caudal fins continuous. 
 
 MUIUSNOIDES GUTTATA.* THE SPOTTED GUNNEL. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Body elon- 
 gated, compressed, similar to the blade of a sword in form ; head 
 small, one-ninth of the length of the body, caudal not included, and 
 about equal to the depth. Colour of the body olive, with a mixture 
 of yellow ; on each side of the dorsal fin, from twelve to thirteen 
 large dark spots, bordered by a whitish circle, placed at equal dis- 
 tances from each other down the back ; anal fin with whitish spots 
 from eleven to twelve in number, arranged similar to those of the 
 back ; pectoral and caudal fins deep orange ; irides above red, below 
 white. Dorsal fin commencing in a line over the base of the pecto- 
 rals, extending down the back to be continuous with the caudal fin, 
 to which it is connected by a membrane ; the rays of the dorsal 
 short and stout, with very sharp points, all of equal length, project- 
 ing beyond the membrane. Anal fin commencing in a line under 
 the thirty-fifth dorsal ray ; the first ray spinous, the rest soft and 
 flexible, branched at their summits ; the last ray connected to the 
 caudal fin by the intervening membrane ; the last three or four rays 
 longer than those preceding ; ventral fin very small, composed of one 
 short stout spine, very sharp, with a small ray immediately behind 
 
 * Murainoides gutiaia* Yarr. Blennius gunnellus^ Don., Pen., Jen. 
 Gunnellus vulgaris, Flem. Spotted Gunnel, Butterfish, Stane-checker. 
 
236 FISHES OF THE FlRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 it ; pectorals rounded like the caudal, about one-half its size. Jaws 
 furnished with a number of small teeth arranged in two rows on the 
 anterior part. (Mr Yarrell states, they are placed in a single row 
 in each jaw.) Teeth on the front of the vomer, none on the pala- 
 tines or tongue ; under jaw the longest when the mouth is opened ; 
 head narrow, much more compressed than the nape. Lips thin and 
 folded back, giving an appearance as if thick and fleshy ; each oper- 
 culum ends in a point directed over the base of the pectorals ; mem- 
 brane continuous under the throat. Number of fin rays 
 D. 78 ; P. 1] ; V. 2 ; A. 46 ; C. 15. 
 
 This fish which I have frequently met with on the coast 
 of Devon, has been observed as far north as the shores of 
 Norway. It is common in every part of the estuury of the 
 Firth of Forth ; more so in those situations where sea-weed 
 grows in the greatest abundance, under which it will seek 
 refuge for many hours after the tide has ebbed. Above 
 North Queensferry, about a mile, I found, in the month of 
 July, as many as from nine to twelve in number collected 
 together under a tuft of sea-weed. These fish when first 
 taken in the hand, are with difficulty retained, owing to 
 the slimy secretion with which the whole surface of the body 
 is covered. When found in large pools of water, they 
 are observed to swim with great rapidity, and are caught 
 with the greatest difficulty in consequence of their moving 
 from one place to another with extreme quickness, and 
 creeping into every small crevice they can find. 
 
 The common length of the spotted Gunnel, or, as it 
 is named in Scotland, Stane-checker, is from four to five 
 inches. On one occasion, I found a specimen to measure 
 eleven inches in length, when the whole of the dorsal spots 
 were obliterated except the first, which was scarcely per- 
 ceptible. As the fish increases in size, the spots become 
 less defined. We are told, that in Greenland the flesh of 
 this fish, though hard, is dried and eaten. In this country 
 
THE VIVIPAROUS BLENNY. 237 
 
 it is seldom if ever made use of except to bait lines with. 
 It feeds on minute Crustacea and small fry, and is said to 
 be destructive to the eggs of other fishes. 
 
 This fish might probably be confounded with Blennius 
 Yarrelln of Cuvier, a rare British species, but the want of 
 appendages on the head will sufficiently distinguish it. 
 
 GENUS ZOJRCES.Body elongated, eel-shaped, with 
 a single dorsal fin, composed of flexible branched rays ; 
 ventral fins of three rays, placed before the pectorals ; teeth 
 in two rows in front of each jaw ; none on the vomer or pa- 
 latines ; dorsal and caudal fins continuous. 
 
 ZOARCES VIVIPARUS** TlIE VlVIPAROUS BLENNY. 
 
 Specific Character. Dorsal fin abbreviated near the caudal ex- 
 tremity. 
 
 Description. From a specimen six inches in length. Body com- 
 pressed behind, gradually tapering from the nape to the tip of the 
 tail ; sides smooth, covered with a mucous secretion ; head one-sixth 
 of the whole length, and about twice the depth of the body, not in- 
 cluding fins. Colour of the back and sides yellowish-brown, mot- 
 tled with dark olive ; when young, lateral line, and below it, spotted 
 with white, which is not visible in the adult. Dorsal fin composed 
 of flexible rays, branched at their summits, commencing over the 
 base of the pectorals, extending down the back to be continuous 
 with the caudal rays, when it becomes suddenly depressed, giving 
 an appearance as if a piece had been cut out ; from this part to the 
 nape the rays gradually increase in height. Anal fin commencing 
 in a line under the twenty-sixth dorsal ray, and extending down to 
 be continuous with the caudal rays ; the rays gradually diminishing 
 in height from the third. Pectorals large and rounded ; ventrals 
 small, composed of only three rays, placed before the base of the 
 pectorals. Lips long and thin, the upper one entire, the lower one 
 bilobed ; when folded back, having the appearance as if thick and 
 fleshy. Operculum triangular ending in a point, directing over the 
 base of the first ray of the pectorals. Teeth small, conical, and 
 blunt ; placed a little apart from each other ; situated in two rows in 
 
 * Zoarcesviviparus, Cuv., Jen. Zoarcus viviparus, Yarr. Bfennius vivi- 
 ^ Pen., Don. Eelpout, Guffer, Greenbone, Bards, Maruna Eel. 
 
238 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 front of each jaw ; none on the vomer, tongue, or palatines. (Mr 
 Yarrell in mentioning the generic characters of this fish, states the 
 teeth to be conical, placed in a single row. In the description he says 
 the teeth are short, conical, sharp, with a second row round the front 
 only of the lower jaw ; the lips fleshy.} It is probable that Mr Yarrell 
 drew his characters from a young specimen, in which the teeth were 
 not completely developed ; for when the fish is less than three inches 
 in length, only one row of teeth in each jaw is visible, the second 
 row commencing first on the lower jaw. Number of fin rays 
 D. 90; P. 19; V. 3 ; A. 70; C. 40; B. 6. 
 
 This fish is scarce on the coast of Devon, but appears 
 more common as we approach the north. In the Firth of 
 Forth it exists in great plenty, hiding under sea-weed in 
 rocky situations. They are often taken with lines in the 
 winter months, and brought to market, where they fetch a 
 ready sale at the rate of three a penny. Some people con- 
 sider the flesh as very fine and wholesome ; while others, 
 again, announce it as dry and of a disagreeable flavour. Dr 
 Neill, in the month of February 1807, saw a female fish 
 fifteen inches long, from which several dozen of young 
 escaped alive : these fry were from four to five inches in 
 length. A short time since, in the month of March, I had 
 a specimen sent me which measured six inches in length, 
 from which I took fifty-six young, all alive, although the 
 parent fish had been dead for nearly two days. Each 
 was an inch and a quarter in length, and on being put into 
 a glass of fresh water, they at first appeared remarkably 
 active, but in less than half an hour after they all ex- 
 pired. 
 
 The general length of this fish is about eight inches, al- 
 though at Berwick, at the mouth of the Tweed, specimens 
 have been taken which measured nearly two feet in length. 
 They are there named Marnna eels^ and at Edinburgh 
 Bards. 
 
 The bones of this fish when boiled assume a green ap- 
 
THE WOLF-FISH, 330 
 
 pearance, from which circumstance the fish often times re- 
 ceives the name of green-bone. 
 
 GENUS ANARRHICHAS. dorsal fine on ; ventral 
 fins wanting ; mouth armed with conical incisors and flat 
 grinders. 
 
 ANAKRHICHAS LUPUS.* THE WOLF-FISH. 
 
 Specific character. Last rays of the dorsal fin abbreviated. 
 
 Description. From a specimen two feet in length. Body elonga- 
 ted ; sides compressed, covered with a mucous secretion ; forehead 
 sloping; face wrinkled. Colour of the back and sides light grey, 
 marked with seven or eight broad vertical bands of a bluish-grey 
 tinge. Dorsal fin commencing at the nape, extending down the back, 
 to be connected to the first caudal ray by a short membrane ; first ray 
 shorter than the second, the rest, as far as the sixty-third, of equal 
 length, the remainder gradually decreasing to the base of the first short 
 caudal ray. Anal fin commencing in a line under the thirtieth ray 
 of the dorsal, and ending at a short interval from the caudal ; all the 
 rays of equal length ; no ventral fins ; pectorals broad, the rays strong 
 and branched, the fifth, sixth, and seventh the longest, reaching in 
 a line under the seventeenth ray of the dorsal ; caudal fin rounded, 
 rather small, about one-third the size of the pectorals, composed of 
 branched flexible rays. Teeth remarkably strong, of two kinds in 
 each jaw, those in front long and conical, those behind, and on the 
 vomer, closely paved, short, and truncated ; eyes rather small, placed 
 high on the head, on a line over the vomerine teeth. Number of fin 
 rays 
 
 D. 72; P. 20; A. 45; C. 17: B. 7. 
 
 The Wolf-fish sometimes grows to the length of six feet, 
 and is a rare visitant on the southern coast of England. It 
 is found on the coasts of Norfolk and Yorkshire, and is 
 well known along the northern shores of Europe. This 
 large and ferocious species is the most savage and powerful 
 of all our British fishes. It feeds on crustaceous and tes- 
 taceous animals, and by the power of its large and strong 
 
 * Anarrhichas lupus, Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Pen., Don. Sea-wolf, Sea-cat^ 
 Swine-fish, Cat-fish. 
 
240 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 temporal and masseter muscles, and broad and short molars, 
 is enabled to grind to pieces the largest crab with the 
 greatest facility. It is common in all the rocky parts of 
 the Firth of Forth, is often found on the haddock lines, 
 and occasionally taken in the salmon-nets above Queens- 
 ferry. About June the young are two feet in length, and 
 are sold in the market for sixpence each. The appearance 
 of this fish is not very prepossessing in the sight of those 
 who are not aware of its quality as food ; but if properly 
 dressed and disguised by the head being cut off, it is con- 
 sidered equal to many of the marine fishes. The stomach 
 is remarkably thin and transparent like that of most fish 
 which are furnished with strong and powerful grinders. 
 
 GENUS GOBIUS. Dorsal fins two ; ventrals joined to- 
 gether forming a hollow disk, placed under the thorax ; 
 body with scales. 
 
 GOBIUS NIGER.* THE BLACK GOBY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fins contiguous ; first fin with six rays, 
 the third and fourth rays the longest ; second fin with all the rays 
 equal. (See PI. XXIX.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen four inches and a half in length. 
 Head one-fourth of the length as far as half way down the caudal 
 rays; dorsal line straight; profile rounded; abdomen prominent; sides 
 behind slightly compressed. Colour of the whole fish dusky-brown, 
 darker on the dorsal region, more or less mixed with spots and 
 streaks ; the summit of the first dorsal fin darker than the rest of the 
 membrane. Preoperculum rounded ; operculum slightly produced 
 at its upper and posterior margin. First dorsal fin commencing in a 
 line a little behind the origin of the pectorals, and terminating in a 
 line over the vent ; the third and fourth rays the longest ; like the 
 rest of the rays in that fin, spiny and extremely flexible. Second 
 dorsal commencing close behind the first, slightly connected to it by 
 a fine membrane, ending in a line over the last ray of the anal fin ; 
 nil the rays except the first branched and flexible, and nearly of equal 
 
 * Gobius niffer, Cuv., Yarr., Ten,, Mont. Black Goby, Rock-fish. 
 
THE BLACK GOBY. 241 
 
 height. Anal fin commencing under the third ray of the second dor- 
 sal, ending under the last ray of the same fin, leaving a wide space 
 between it and the base of the caudal fin ; ventrals united ; the 
 middle rays the longest, about the length of the pectorals, placed 
 under the chest in a line with the origin of the pectorals ; middle rays 
 of the pectoral fin the longest, equalling the length of the caudal rays ; 
 behind the vent a small tubercle. Teeth small and fine, placed in 
 two or three rows in front of each jaw, those composing the first 
 row longer and farther apart from each other than those within ; no 
 teeth on the tongue, vomer, or palatines. Eyes high on the head, 
 approximating, placed in a line over the angle of the jaw ; lateral line 
 scarcely perceptible, straight throughout its course. Scales large, 
 ciliated at their free margins, about forty in the course of the lateral 
 line ; much smaller on the nape, placed on a reddish-brown patch ; 
 tail rounded at the end ; the first rays of the anal fin shorter than 
 the terminating ones. Number of fin rays 
 IstD. 6j2dD. 14; P. 19; V. 10; A. 12; C. 13; B. 5. 
 
 This species of goby, on account of its inhabiting rocky 
 situations, has received the name of rock-fish, differing 
 greatly in habits from the rest of the gobies. Mr Couch has 
 met with it on the coast of Corn wall, and has observed a pecu- 
 liarity in its habits, in which it resembles the shanny, that 
 of carrying off its prey in its mouth to a resting-place, and 
 there struggling with it. Colonel Montagu has frequently 
 taken it on the south coast of Devon, in the estuary of Kings- 
 bridge. Off Brixham I myself have seen it captured of large 
 size, measuring from six to six and a half inches in length. 
 It can be traced as far north as the Orkneys. In the 
 Firth of Forth I find this fish rather scarce, having seen 
 but three specimens, and those were taken at the Joppa 
 Rocks east of Portobello. They spawn in June. Their 
 flesh is of little value, serving only as food for other fishes. 
 
 Before the appearance of Mr YarrelPs very valuable work 
 on fishes, all previous authors described the whole of the 
 British gobies under two synonyms, that of G. niger, and 
 
 VOL. VII. Q 
 
242 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 G. minutus ; but now, instead of having only two species, 
 we can identify six as inhabiting the British shores. 
 
 The Gobms n'iger is distinguished from the rest of the 
 British gobies in its growing to three or four times the size, 
 and in having the two dorsals contiguous, which in all the 
 other species are more or less remote. 
 
 GOBIUS MINUTUS.* THE FllECKLED GOBY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fins remote ; anterior rays of the second 
 dorsal fin longer than the succeeding ones ; caudal fin rounded ; first 
 dorsal with six rays. (See PL XXIX.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen two and a quarter inches in length. 
 Dorsal line nearly straight, slightly elevated over the pectorals ; pro- 
 file falling from the orbit to the lip ; body rounded in the abdominal 
 region ; nape depressed ; tail compressed. Colour of the head, back, 
 and sides reddish-brown, freckled and streaked with dark brown ; 
 throat and belly whitish ; dorsal and caudal fins mottled with brown ; 
 ventral and anal fins plain. Operculum and preoperculum rounded ; 
 cheeks prominent j under jaw longest ; on the nape a sulcus extend- 
 ing from the orbit to the dorsal fin. Eyes approximate, situated high 
 on the head, and in a line over the angle of the jaw. First dorsal fin 
 commencing behind the base of the pectorals, and ending in a line 
 over the end of the pectoral rays ; all the rays spiny and very flexi- 
 "ble ; the second and third rays longer than the fourth. Second dor- 
 sal fin taking its origin in a line over the vent, and terminating over 
 the last ray of the anal ; the anterior rays longer than the terminating 
 ones, all branched except the first, which is simple, and a little more 
 than half the length of the second. Anal fin commencing in a line 
 under the third ray of the second dorsal, and corresponding in form 
 to that fin ; ventrals united together so as to form but one fin, placed 
 under the chest a little behind the base of the pectorals ; the middle 
 rays the longest, reaching nearly to the vent ; pectorals when reflect- 
 ed reach as far as the middle of the orbit ; the centre ray the 
 longest ; tail rounded at the end ; behind the vent a small tubercle. 
 Scales large for the size of the fish, and finely ciliated at their free 
 margins ; lateral line straight, crossed throughout by ten or twelve 
 dark spots ; the one at the base of the tail the most conspicuous. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 IstD. 6;2dD. 10; P. 16; V. 8; A. 9; C. 15; B. 5. 
 
 * Gobius minutus, Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Penn., Don. Freckled Goby, Spot- 
 ted Goby, Polewig. 
 
THE FRECKLED GOBY. 243 
 
 The freckled goby seems to be a common fish in sandy 
 bays throughout the British coast. I have met with it re- 
 peatedly on the west coast of Scotland, as well as in Eng- 
 land, on the south coast of Devon. In the Firth of Forth 
 it is taken on the Musselburgh and Portobello sands in 
 shrimping-nets ; and on one occasion I met with it as high 
 up as Alloa, where it was found in a spirling-net in the 
 early part of November. Those gobies when young de- 
 light in small shallow pools to bask more immediately 
 under the rays of the sun> when they fall a prey to 
 aquatic birds. When disturbed they are remarkably ac- 
 tive, darting about in all directions ; and, in consequence 
 of their backs being precisely of the same colour as the 
 sand on which they repose, will, when stationary, evade 
 the eye of the most patient observer. Their food is small 
 marine insects. They spawn in the month of June. The 
 flesh, although sweet and well-flavoured, is never used as 
 food. 
 
 Gobius minutus is more nearly allied to Gracilis and Uni- 
 punctatus than to any of the rest. In Gracilis the last rays 
 of the second dorsal fin are longer than the preceding ones ; 
 in Minutus they are shorter. Unipunctatus has a large black 
 spot on the membrane of the two last rays of the first dor- 
 sal fin ; Minutus has no spot in that part. 
 
 GOBIUS UNIPUNCTATUS. THE ONE SPOTTED GOBY. Par. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fins remote ; anterior rays of the se- 
 cond dorsal fin longer than the succeeding ones ; caudal fin even ; 
 first dorsal with six rays ; a large black spot on the summit of the 
 membrane between the last two rays of the first dorsal fin. (See 
 Plate XXIX.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen two inches and a half in length. 
 Body rather elongated, rounded in front, compressed at the tail ; flat- 
 tened on the nape ; head long in proportion to its depth, one fourth 
 of the length, including half the caudal rays ; operculum and preoper- 
 
 ft 2 
 
244 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 culum rounded. Colour of the head, back, and sides, pale brownish- 
 yellow ; throat and belly white ; dorsal and caudal fins freckled and 
 barred with pale brown ; first dorsal fin with a black spot between 
 the two last rays, which assumes a beautiful appearance when newly- 
 taken from the water ; lateral line crossed by six or seven dark spots, 
 the one at the base of the tail the most conspicuous. First dorsal 
 fin with fine, flexible, spiny rays, of which the second and third rather 
 the longest, commencing behind the base of the pectorals, and end- 
 ing in a line over the end of the pectoral rays ; second dorsal fin re- 
 mote from the first, commencing in a line over the vent, and ending 
 over the last ray of the anal, the anterior rays longer than the termi- 
 nating ones, all flexible and branched, except the first which is sim- 
 ple ; anal fin similar to the second dorsal, leaving a wide space be- 
 tween its termination and the base of the caudal rays; ventral fins 
 united so as to form but one fin, the middle rays the longest, extend- 
 ing to the vent ; each ray is branched except the first and last, which 
 is very short and simple, between each is stretched a membrane form- 
 ing the base of the ventral disk. Pectorals, when turned back reach- 
 ing to the middle of the orbit ; the middle rays the longest ; tail even 
 at the end. Eyes rather large, placed high on the head, approximat- 
 ing ; cheeks tumid ; under jaw the longest ; teeth small and sharp 
 placed in two rows in each jaw, none in the tongue, palatines, or 
 vomer ; a small tubercle in front of the anal fin. Number of fin 
 rays 
 
 1st D. 6 ; 2d D. 11 ; P. 16 ; V. 10 ; A. 11 ; C. 15 ; B. 5. 
 
 This fish does not appear to have been noticed by pre- 
 vious authors. I have observed it in most of the sandy bays 
 in the Firth of Forth, but in greater numbers and of larger 
 size in the neighbourhood of the salmon nets above South 
 Queensferry, where it may be found throughout the sum- 
 mer months in water from two to three feet deep. I found 
 it on the south coast of England, equally common with the 
 G. minutus. I havealsofound it in many situations where the 
 minutus was not seen ; and the minutus has been taken in 
 many places where the G. unipunctatus did not exist. The 
 most northern locality in which it has yet been observed ap- 
 pears to be the Moray Frith, where James Wilson, Esq., ob- 
 tained a fine specimen of three and a half inches in length. 
 
THE SLENDER GOBY, 245 
 
 This fish, although closely allied to the other species of 
 the same genus, is undoubtedly quite distinct from them ; 
 the black spot on the first dorsal fin being far more constant 
 and conspicuous than any character which distinguishes 
 the rest of the British gobies. The only species it can well 
 be mistaken for is the G. mmutus ; but differs from it in 
 having a black spot between the fifth and sixth ray of the 
 first dorsal fin ; the second dorsal with eleven rays, and the 
 tail fin even at the extremity. Whereas the G. minutus has 
 no black spot between the fifth and sixth ray of the first 
 dorsal fin ; the rays of the second dorsal ten in number, and 
 the tail fin rounded at the end. 
 
 GOBIUS GRACILTS. THE SLENDElt GOBY. Jen. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fins remote ; anterior rays of the second 
 dorsal fin shorter than the succeeding ones ; first dorsal fin with six 
 rays, (See Plate XXIX.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen two and a quarter inches in length. 
 Dorsal line nearly straight ; profile falling gradually from the forehead ; 
 body rather elongated, rounded, compressed at the base of the tail ; 
 flattened on the nape ; operculum and preoperculum rounded ; cheeks 
 tumid ; under jaw the longest. Colour of the back and sides reddish- 
 brown ; freckled and streaked with a dark brown ; dorsal and caudal 
 fins barred with the same ; lateral line crossed with seven or eight 
 dark spots, occasionally the middle one extending nearly the depth 
 of the side ; ventral and anal fins dusky, sometimes nearly black. 
 Eyes approximating, situated high on the head, in a line over the 
 angle of the jaw ; first dorsal fin commencing in a line over the up- 
 per third of the pectorals, and ending over the end of the pectoral 
 rays ; all the rays spiny and flexible ; the second, third, and fourth, 
 of equal length. Second dorsal fin taking its origin in a line over the 
 vent and terminating over the last ray of the anal ; the anterior rays 
 shorter than the terminating ones, all branched except the first ; anal 
 fin corresponding to the second dorsal, but commencing a little fur- 
 ther back ; in front of the first ray a small adipose tubercle ; ventrals 
 united so as to form but one fin, placed under the thorax, a little be- 
 hind the base of the pectorals, the middle rays the longest, reaching 
 to the vent ; pectorals on being reflected reach back as far as the 
 middle of the orbit ; the central rays the longest ; tail slightly rounded 
 
246 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 at the end. Scales large for the size of the fish ; finely ciliated at 
 their free margins and beautifully flilutii& within. Number of fin 
 rays 
 
 IstD. 6; 2dD. 11;P. 18; V. 10 ; A. 10 ; C. 12 ;B. 5. 
 
 This fish was first described by Jenyns from specimens 
 which were supposed to have been taken somewhere off the 
 Essex coast. Mr Jenyns remarks, that it closely resembles 
 the G. minutus, but is more elongated and slender through- 
 out ; greatest depth barely one seventh of the whole length ; 
 snout rather longer ; opercule approaching more to triangu- 
 lar, the lower angle being more cut away, and the ascend- 
 ing margin more oblique ; a larger space between it and the 
 pectorals ; the two dorsals farther asunder ; rays of the se- 
 cond dorsal longer ; these rays also gradually increasing in 
 length, instead of decreasing- ; the posterior ones being the 
 longest in the fin, and rather more than equalling the whole 
 depth ; rays of the anal, in like manner, longer than in the 
 G. minutus ; anal and ventral fins dusky, approaching to 
 black in some places, instead of plain white as in G. minutus. 
 Jenyns 1 British Vertebrate Animals. 
 
 This well marked species of goby is occasionally found in the 
 Firth of Forth, but is not common; it inhabits similar situa- 
 tions as the minutus, and they are frequently taken together. 
 I have found it in the Solway Firth, and in much greater 
 plenty on the southern coast of England. It spawns in 
 June, and is of little value except as food for other fishes 
 and aquatic birds. 
 
 GOBIUS BIPUNCTATUS. THE DODBLY-SPOTTED GOBY. 
 
 Yarrell. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fins nearly contiguous; first fin with 
 seven rays ; a black spot behind the pectorals, and a similar one on 
 the base of the caudal fin. (See Plate XXIX.) 
 
THE DOUBLY-SPOTTED GOBY. 247 
 
 Description. From a specimen two inches and a half in length. 
 Body rounded, compressed towards the base of the tail; flattened \ 
 on the summit of the head ; dorsal line nearly straight, slightly raised 
 over the pectorals ; operculum and preoperculum rounded ; under 
 jaw the longest. Colour of the back and sides dark reddish -brown, 
 crossed with dark lines taking opposite directions ; dorsal and cau- 
 dal fins barred with light reddish-brown ; ventral and anal fins white ; 
 lateral line marked by nine or ten light blue spots, placed at equal 
 distances from each other : a large black spot under the second and 
 third rays of the first dorsal fin, partly concealed by the upper rays 
 of the pectorals ; a similar spot at the base of the caudal rays. First 
 dorsal fin commencing in a line over the upper thirds of the pecto- 
 rals, and ending in a line over the vent ; the second, third, and fourth 
 rays the longest, all simple and flexible ; second dorsal fin com- 
 mences in a line over the anal tubercle, and ends over the last ray of 
 the anal fin ; the second ray the longest, the rest gradually decreas- 
 ing in height j all the rays branched except the first ; tail rounded at 
 the end ; anal fin corresponding with the second dorsal, but com- 
 mencing rather further back ; ventrals united together, forming but 
 one fin, all the rays branched except the two first ; the middle rays 
 the longest, reaching to the vent ; pectorals not as long as the vent- 
 rals, reaching as far as in a line under the sixth ray of the dorsal. 
 Eyes placed high on the head ; teeth small and sharp, placed in two 
 rows in each jaw, none on the tongue, vomer, or palatines. Scales 
 large for the size of the fish, finely ciliated at their free margin. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 7 ; 2d D. 11 ; P. 18 ; V. 12 ; A. 11 ; C. 12 ; B. 5. 
 
 This fish was considered by Donovan to be identical with 
 the G. niger of Linnaeus, and he figured it as such in his 
 work on the British Fishes ; but Mr Yarrell has since very 
 clearly proved it to be a distinct species, differing widely 
 from those found on the British coast, and from the fact of 
 its possessing two conspicuous black spots on each side of 
 the body, suggested to him the characteristic name of bi- 
 punctatus. It appears to have an extensive range, and 
 has been found on the Belfast, Cornish, Devonshire, and 
 Dorsetshire coasts. Dr Johnston has observed it at Ber- 
 wick, and I have repeatedly taken it at the mouth of 
 the Firth of Forth as well as at Largo, on the opposite 
 
248 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 shore. The bipunctatus, independent of external charac- 
 ters, differs widely in habits from the rest of the gobies. It 
 frequents the most rocky situations, where fuci grows in 
 the greatest abundance, and is never found reposing on the 
 sandy bottoms, like the rest of its congeners. It keeps but 
 a short distance from below the surface of the water, appa- 
 rently in a motionless position, assuming, in this respect, 
 much the habits of the Stickleback ; when approached, it 
 gradually lowers itself in the deep, and soon disappears, 
 by making short, though rapid, darts among thejfocz which 
 it delights to frequent. 
 
 This species is easily recognised by having more rays in 
 the first dorsal fin than the other British gobies possess. 
 The G. niger, G. minutus, G. unipunctatus, and G. gradl'is, 
 have six rays in the first fin. G. albus* has but five, where- 
 as the G. bipnnctatus has seven in that fin. 
 
 GENUS CALLIONYMUS Dorsal fins two; ventrals 
 separate, placed under the throat ; body without scales. 
 
 CALLIONYMUS LYRA*T. THE GEMMEOUS DRAOONET. 
 
 Specific Characters. First ray of the first dorsal fin elongated, 
 reaching beyond the last ray of the second dorsal fin. 
 
 Description. From a specimen seven inches and a half in length. 
 Head depressed, elongated ; snout sharp, very protractile j body 
 elongated, smooth, without scales ; sides rounded. Colour of the 
 head and sides pale yellow, striped and spotted with blue and 
 white of different shades, assuming a sappharine appearance ; vent- 
 rals dark purple ; anal and caudal fins bluish-black ; pectorals pel- 
 lucid white ; first dorsal fin beautifully variegated with blue, black, and 
 pale yellow, intermixed with lines of white ; throat dark ; belly cream 
 colour. First dorsal fin commencing a little in advance of the base of 
 
 * Gobius albus, a new species of British Goby Proceedings of the Royal 
 Society of Edinburgh, 1837. 
 
 f- CalKonymus lyra, Linn., Cuv., Jen., Yarr., Penn., Gemmeous Dragonet, 
 Yellow Skulpin, Goudie, Chanticleer. 
 
THE GEMMEOU8 DRAGONET. 249 
 
 the pectorals ; the first ray very much produced, reaching 1 when folded 
 down to the base of the caudal fin. In some specimens this ray 
 does not reach quite so far, but invariably extends beyond the base 
 of the last ray of the second dorsal. The second ray about half as long 
 as the first, the other two rays in that fin rapidly decreasing ; second 
 dorsal fin commencing close behind the first, and ending in a line 
 over the last ray but three of the anal j the first ray equalling the 
 height of the third ray of the first dorsal ; the last ray the longest, 
 branched at the summit; the rest simple. Anal fin commencing 
 in a line under the third ray of the second dorsal ; the last.ray twice 
 as long as the first, and reaching when folded down to the base of 
 the caudal rays ; pectorals pointed, the middle rays the longest, ex- 
 tending to the third ray of the anal ; all branched except the first ; 
 ventrals placed before the pectorals ; the first ray about half the 
 length of the last, which is the longest, reaching to the first ray of 
 the anal ; the four first rays branched on one side only, presenting 
 a feather-like appearance. Head one-third the length of the body, 
 caudal not included ; operculum rounded, covered by a membrane 
 which nearly closes the branchial aperture, leaving only a small hole 
 on each side of the nape, close by the origin of the lateral line ; pos- 
 terior border of the preoperculum greatly produced, ending in four 
 strong short spines, two of which are directed upwards, the third 
 points towards the base of the pectorals, and the fourth, which is 
 placed underneath, points towr.rds the snout. Most authors state 
 the preoperculum to have but three spines. Eyes rather large, placed 
 high on the head, approximating ; under jaw the shortest. Teeth 
 small and fine, placed in many rows in front of each jaw, none on 
 the tongue, vomer, or palatines ; lateral line prominent, commencing 
 immediately above the branchial aperture, taking a slight curve over 
 the base of the pectorals, from thence passing straight to the tail ; 
 both lines unite at the nape by extending across the occiput to meet 
 with its fellow on the opposite side ; caudal fin rounded at the end j 
 all the rays branched except the two lateral ones. Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 4; 2d D. 9 ; P. 20 ; V. 5 ; A. 9 ; C. 9. 
 
 The Gemmeous Dragonet is an inhabitant of the Medi- 
 terranean, and, according to authors, has been found as far 
 north as off the coast of Norway. Mr Yarrell considers it 
 as not a common fish on our coast. It has been taken on 
 the coast of Cumberland and Belfast, and occasionally in 
 Cornwall. Colonel Montagu considers it rate at Salcombe, 
 on the coast of Devon ; yet at Exmouth I found it not 
 
250 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 unfrequent. At one haul of a sean I procured five speci- 
 mens, and have often seen them taken in shrimping-nets, 
 though of small size. It has been obtained at Weymouth 
 and Hastings, and Pennant says it is not unfrequent on 
 the Scarborough coast, where it is taken by the hook in 
 thirty or forty fathoms of .water. Dr Neill records it as 
 common in the Firth of Forth, and often found on Had- 
 dock lines. In this latter locality I find them not so plen- 
 tiful as they formerly appear to have been ; they are 
 principally confined to the mouth of the Firth, in deep 
 water, especially near the Isle of May ; seldom found high 
 up the Firth, although one or two solitary instances have 
 occurred in which specimens were taken at Alloa and Kin- 
 cardine, after strong easterly winds. This fish is said to 
 grow to the length of a foot. Its food, according to Mr 
 Yarrell, is testaceous animals, which are swallowed whole, 
 molluscous animals, and worms. The flesh is said to be 
 white, firm, and of good flavour. Cod, it is recorded, oc- 
 casionally feed on the young. 
 
 CALLIONYMUS DRACUNCULUS.* THE SORDID DRAGONET. 
 
 Specific Characters. First ray of the first dorsal fin moderate ; not 
 extending beyond the sixth ray of the second dorsal. 
 
 Description. From a specimen seven inches and a half in length. 
 Body rather elongated, depressed, sides rounded ; head triangular, 
 broader than the body, rather more than one-fourth of the whole 
 length, caudal excepted; snout protractile. Operculum rounded, 
 covered by a membrane which nearly closes the branchial opening, 
 leaving only a small hole, on each side of the nape, close by the 
 origin of the lateral line ; preoperculum greatly prolonged behind, 
 terminating in four strong, short, spines, which are said to be capa- 
 ble of inflicting a severe wound ; two of the spines are directed up- 
 wards, the third towards the base of the pectorals, and the fourth 
 placed below pointing towards the snout. Colour of the back and 
 
 * Callionymus dracunculus Linn., Jen., Yarr., Penn., Cuv. Sordid Dr ago- 
 net, Fox, Skulpin. 
 
THE SORDID DRAGONET. 251 
 
 sides, reddish brown, mottled with dark-brown ; belly dull white ; 
 ventrals dusky ; pectoral and anal fins white ; dorsals pale uniform 
 brown ; irides yellowish. First dorsal fin commencing over the base 
 of the pectorals ; the first ray the longest, reaching to the third ray 
 of the second dorsal fin ; the second ray nearly of the same length as 
 the first ; the third and fourth much shorter ; second dorsal fin com- 
 mencing close behind the termination of the first, and ending in 
 a line over the last anal ray but three ; the first ray of the same 
 height as, the second ray of the first dorsal, the seventh and eighth ray 
 the shortest, the last not longer than the first ; all simple except the 
 terminating one which is branched. Anal fin commencing in a 
 line under the third ray of the second dorsal ; the last ray the long- 
 est ; pectorals pointed, middle ray the longest, extending to the third 
 ray of the anal, all branched except the first ; ventrals placed before 
 the pectorals, the first ray not half the length of the last, which is the 
 longest, reaching to the first ray of the anal j the first four rays branched 
 on one side only. Caudal fin rounded at the end, all the rays 
 branched except the first on each side. Eyes rather large, placed 
 high on the head, approximating ; under jaw the shortest. Teeth 
 small and fine, placed in many rows in front of each jaw, none on the 
 tongue, vomer, or palatines ; lateral line prominent, commencing im- 
 mediately over the branchial aperture, taking a slight bend over the 
 base of the pectorals, from thence passing straight to the tail ; on the 
 nape it joins with its fellow on the opposite side, by extending 
 across the occiput; body smooth without scales. Number of fin 
 rays 
 
 lstD.4;2dD. 9; P. 20 ; V. 5 ; A. 9 ; C. 10. 
 
 This species like the last appears to be widely distributed, 
 and is found frequenting the same places. According to 
 Dr Neill it is rather common near the mouth of the Firth 
 of Forth, where it inhabits water from twelve to twenty 
 fathoms deep, and is often taken on haddock lines baited 
 with mussels. I have occasionally seen specimens taken 
 myself from this locality, and off North Berwick and Largo, 
 but it is seldom found higher up the estuary than Inchcolm. 
 Dr Neill, after dissecting some dozens of specimens of CaL 
 lionymus lyra and C. dracunculus, and finding the former 
 all milters, and the latter all spawriers, came to a conclu- 
 sion that they were male and female of the same species. 
 
252 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 This also is the opinion of M. Valenciennes. Dr George 
 Johnson of Berwick, has, on the other hand, recorded in the 
 third volume of the Zoological Journal, page 336, that he 
 had found a Sordid Dragonet with a milt. Mr Yarrell 
 also considers them as distinct. Mr Couch has observed a 
 certain difference in their habits. " The Yellow Skulpin, 
 says Mr Couch, " prefers deeper water ; whereas the other 
 will often approach the margin of the tide, where I have 
 watched its actions with great interest. They keep at the 
 bottom, among sand or stones, and never rise but to pass 
 from one situation to another, which is done with great sud- 
 denness and rapidity. They possess great quickness of sight, 
 and dart with swiftness when alarmed, though not to a great 
 distance : and I have seen the Sordid Skulpin repeatedly 
 mount after prey, and invariably return to the same spot 
 again. This motion is chiefly performed by the ventral 
 fins ; and the eye is well adapted to the habit, the muscles 
 of that organ being fitted to direct the sight i pward but 
 not downwards. They sometimes take the hook, though 
 rarely ; and are much devoured by the larger fish, in the 
 stomachs of which they are often found. They feed on 
 shell-fish, worms, and molluscous animals."" 
 
 Mr Yarrell says that, " in proof of the distinction of the 
 species, it may be stated that the colours of the body and 
 fins are decidedly different ; that in C. lyra the head is to 
 the whole length as one to four ; the eyes removed two dia- 
 meters from the end of the nose ; the head elongated and 
 elevated ; the distance from the point of the nose to the pos- 
 terior edge of the orbit, and thence to the origin of the first 
 dorsal fin ray, equal ; the mouth large ; the lateral line pro- 
 minent. In C. dracunculus, the head is to the whole fish 
 as one to five ; the eyes but one diameter above the snout ; 
 the head depressed, strictly triangular ; the distance from 
 
THE SEA-DEVIL. 253 
 
 the eye to the first dorsal fin ray double that of the dis- 
 tance from the point of the nose to the eye ; the lateral line 
 much less distinct, and the mouth only half as deeply di- 
 vided." In addition to these characters I may add, that 
 in C. lyra the first ray of the first dorsal fin always reaches 
 beyond the last ray of the second dorsal fin ; and the last 
 ray of the second dorsal fin is twice as long as the first ray 
 in the same fin ; whereas in C. dracunculus the first ray 
 never reaches beyond the sixth ray of the second dorsal and 
 the last ray of the second dorsal is seldom longer than the 
 first ray in the same fin. 
 
 FAMILY IX. LOPHIAD^E. Carpal bone elongated in 
 order to form a kind of arm, which supports the pectorals ; 
 body withoutxscales ; skeleton semi-cartilaginous. 
 
 GENUS LOPHIUS. Head broad, depressed; excessive-- 
 ly large in proportion to the rest of the body ; dorsal fins 
 two ; ventrals placed before the pectorals, and of a glove- 
 like form. 
 
 LOPHIUS PISCATORIUS.* THE SEA-DEVIL. 
 
 Specific Characters. Head with three long filaments, two of which 
 are placed close behind the upper lip. 
 
 Description. From a specimen two feet in length. Head large, 
 broad, depressed, about one-third of the entire length, caudal fin 
 included ; body tapering rapidly from behind the pectorals, becoming 
 rounded towards the base of the tail ; covered with a thin loose skin, 
 very smooth, without scales. Colour of the head, back, and dorsal 
 fins uniform brown, pectoral and caudal darker ; under the throat and 
 belly pure white ; anal fin dusky ; occasionally the whole body is 
 marked with large white spots very much resembling white paint. 
 First dorsal fin small, placed in a line with the base of the pectorals ; 
 the last ray about one-third the length of the first. Second dorsal 
 
 * Lophius piscatorius, Linn., Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Penn. Fishing-frog, 
 Angler, Wide Gape, Devil-fish, Mirring. 
 
254 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 remote from the first, and much more conspicuous ; of a rounded 
 form, the middle rays being rather the longest ; the last ray .connect- 
 ed to the base of the tail by a membrane which passes off from its 
 whole length ; anal fin corresponding in form to the second dorsal, 
 but rather smaller, commencing under the fourth ray, and ending a 
 little behind the last ray of the second dorsal ; tail rather small, 
 rounded at the end ; ventrals small, very much resembling a glove in 
 form, placed a little in advance of the pectorals. In front of the eyes, 
 a little behind the upper lip, are two long slender filaments nearly 
 the length of the head, the anterior one is furnished on the summit 
 with a small triangular piece of skin, often of a sappharine appearance, 
 which the fish uses as a bait for its prey ; on the occiput is another 
 filament nearly of the same length, connected at the base with a small 
 membrane, which greatly limits its freedom. Eyes rather small, 
 placed high on the head ; orbits on the upper and posterior borders 
 with four or five bony tubercles, having in front of the two first a 
 number of small bony granulations ; snout in front of each eye, also 
 with two bony tubercles ; occiput and cheeks with scattered pro- 
 cesses of a similar kind. Teeth long and slender, capable of easy 
 flexion inwards, but not outwards, placed in two rows in each jaw, 
 those in the outer row being about half the length of the inner ones ; 
 palate and tongue also furnished with teeth with their points direct- 
 ing inwards. Mouth large, allowing of great expansion ; under jaw 
 the longest ; chin, under the cheeks, down the sides to the base of the 
 tail, furnished with a row of short prolongations of the cuticle. 
 Branchial opening under the pectorals, in which situation there is a 
 large sack or pouch from twelve to fourteen inches deep, where the 
 young are supposed by some writers to take refuge in time of dan- 
 ger. Number of fin rays 
 
 IstD. 3;2dD. 11; P. 23; V. 5; A. 10; C.8; B 6. 
 
 This fish, or the Angler, as it was first named by Pen- 
 nant, is sometimes taken the length of five feet, but the 
 more common size is from two feet and a half to three in 
 length. The great resemblance it bears to a frog in the 
 tadpole state, and the peculiar mode in which it procures 
 its food, had suggested the name of Fishing-frog to the 
 earliest writers. It is said by authors to be found in 
 all the seas in Europe ; it is, however, a common fish all 
 round the British coasts, and has been found as far north 
 as off the coast of Norway. According to Mr Couch, u it 
 
THE SEA-DEVIL. 255 
 
 is very voracious, making little difference what the prey 
 is, either in respect to size or quality. A fisherman had 
 hooked a cod fish, and, while drawing it up, he felt a 
 heavier weight attach itself to his line ; this proved to be an 
 angler of large size, which he compelled to quit its hold by 
 a heavy blow on its head. In another instance an angler 
 seized a conger eel that had taken the hook, but after the 
 latter had been engulphed in the enormous jaws, and per- 
 haps stomach, it struggled through the gill aperture of the 
 angler, and in that situation both were drawn up together. 
 It Has been known to swallow the large ball of cork em- 
 ployed as a buoy to a deep-sea line. They are very com- 
 mon in Cornwall, and we are informed that it is not an un- 
 frequent occurrence to take in a trawl-net a dozen at once.*" 
 
 The long filaments on the upper and anterior part of the 
 head of the angler are supposed to be of service in pro- 
 curing it subsistence. The first filament, according to 
 Mr Bailly, is supplied with twenty-two muscles, so that it 
 has the power of being moved in all directions ; " The uses 
 to which they are applied are singular. While couching 
 close to the ground, the fish, by the action of its ventrals, 
 tail, and pectorals, stirs up the mud ; hidden by the ob- 
 scurity thus produced, it elevates these appendages, moves 
 them in various directions by way of attraction as a bait, 
 and the small fishes approaching either to examine or to 
 seize them immediately fall a prey to the invidious angler."" 
 
 In the Firth of Forth the angler is frequently taken both 
 with the hook and net, and is common in almost every part 
 of the estuary. Occasionally specimens have been taken in 
 the spirling-nets as far up as Alloa, but beyond that they are 
 scarcely ever met with. The flesh is considered good, par- 
 ticularly that near the tail. 
 
 * Yarrell's British Fishes. 
 
256 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 A short time since some fishermen at Queensferry ob- 
 serving the water very much discoloured at a particular 
 spot near the shore, proceeded to discover the cause, and on 
 poking the bottom a few seconds with a long handled mop, 
 found that a sea-devil had taken hold of it with an intent 
 of making it a mouthful, and the fish not being able to ex- 
 tricate its teeth in sufficient time from the woolly substance 
 of the mop, it was hauled into the boat by the fishermen. 
 It measured four feet nine inches in length. 
 
 FAMILY X. L ABRIDGE. Body oblong, covered with 
 large scales ; dorsal fin one, with the greater part of the rays 
 spinous, and the intervening membrane extending a little 
 beyond their point ; lips thin and doubled back, giving an 
 appearance as if thick and fleshy ; pharyngeal bone armed 
 with blunt teeth ; the tail fin of all those inhabiting the 
 British waters is rounded at the extremity. 
 
 GENUS LABRUS. Preoperculum without dentations; 
 cheeks and operculum scaly. 
 
 LABRUS MACULATUS.* THE BALLAN WRASSE. 
 
 Specific Character. Last ray but five of the dorsal fin more than 
 twice the length of the third ray of the same fin. 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length. Head 
 one-fourth of the entire length, caudal fin included ; body of an ob- 
 long oval form ; dorsal line from the soft part of the dorsal fin to the 
 nape nearly straight, from thence falling gradually to the upper lip ; 
 sides but slightly compressed ; covered with large thin scales, about 
 fifty forming the lateral line. Colour of the head, back, and sides, 
 bluish-green, with an obscure white spot on each scale, presenting a 
 mottled appearance ; belly orange-red ; cheek's greenish, striped with 
 pale red ; dorsal, caudal, and anal fins bluish-green, with pale light 
 blue spots ; pectoral and ventrals orange-red ; in some specimens the 
 whole body, fins included, of a uniform reddish-brown, but liable to 
 great variation in colour. Dorsal fin commencing in a line over the 
 
 * Labrns maculatus, Yarr., Jen., Penn., Bloch. Labrus tinea, Don. 
 
THE BALLAN WRASSE. 257 
 
 base of the pectorals, extending down nearly the whole length of the 
 back, to within a short distance of the base of the tail ; the first 
 twenty rays short and spiny, nearly all of equal length, with the in- 
 tervening membranes extending beyond their points, in the form of 
 fine filaments ; the remaining portion of the fin, soft and flexible, the 
 rays, which are branched on their summits, being much longer than 
 the spinous ones. Anal fin commencing in a line under the eight- 
 eenth ray of the dorsal, and ending in a line beneath the last ray but 
 four of the same fin; the first three rays spiny, of which the first is 
 the shortest ; the rest of the rays soft and flexible, branched at their 
 summits; the last but four the longest: ventrals shorter than the 
 pectorals, and placed l.ehind the base : pectorals rounded at the end 
 with the middle rays the longest ; operculum rounded ; preoperculum 
 smooth not denticulated, the ascending margin rather oblique ; cheeks 
 and operculum scaly, compressed. Nose pointed ; under jaw the 
 shortest ; lips long and thin, rugose on the under surface and, wh n 
 folded back, having the appearance as if thick and fleshy. Eyes ra- 
 ther small, placed half way between the point of the upper jaw and 
 the posterior margin of the operculum. Teeth stout and conically 
 arranged in two rows in front of each jaw ; the front row in the up- 
 per jaw has eighteen teeth ; the same row in the lower jaw has 
 twenty ; in the second row they are small and few, not exceeding 
 eight in number ; pharyngeals armed with short blunt teeth ; none 
 on the tongue, vomer, or palatines ; lateral line commencing over 
 the operculum, taking a slight bend over the base of the pectorals, 
 running parallel with the dorsal line as far as the last ray but four, 
 where it makes a short bend down, from thence passes straight to 
 the tail ; scales six in number in an oblique row between the middle 
 of the dorsal fin and lateral line ; between it and the vent twelve ; 
 between the rays of the caudal fin, half way down, a number of small 
 imbricated scales ; preoperculum without scales ; corners of the tail 
 rounded. Number of fin rays 
 D.31; P. 15; V. 6 ; A. 12; C. 13. 
 
 The Ballan Wrasse is a rare fish in the Firth of Forth, 
 although found in tolerable numbers in most of the rocky 
 places round the British coast. A fine specimen was sent 
 me by Mr M'Queen, which was taken in the salmon nets at 
 Hopetoun in the month of August ; it measured seventeen 
 inches in length, and six in depth. I feel myself indebted 
 to that gentleman for his uniform kindness in sending me 
 
 VOL. VII. R 
 
258 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 many fish of value and interest ; the specimen was full of 
 roe apparently in a fit state to be deposited ; perhaps the 
 spawning time of this species is later in the north than on 
 the more southern parts of the coast, since it is stated by 
 Mr Couch of Cornwall, that " the spawn is shed in April, 
 and the young, scarcely more than an inch in length, are 
 seen about the margin of the rocks in shallow water through- 
 out the summer." 
 
 This fish is occasionally taken at North Berwick with the 
 hook and brought to the Edinburgh market for sale, but 
 the flesh is little sought after, being white, soft, and very 
 insipid. It feeds on crustaceous and testaceous animals. 
 
 The Wrasses greatly resemble each other in their external 
 form, and their colours being liable to great variation, have 
 created much confusion in the identification of the species. 
 This fish is distinguished by having the soft rays of the 
 dorsal fin about twice the length of the spiny rays ; where- 
 as in the rest of the British Labri the soft rays in that fin 
 are scarcely longer than the spiny ones, and frequently of 
 equal length. 
 
 LABRDS CARNEUS.* THE RED WRASSE. 
 
 Specific Character. Posterior rays of the dorsal fin very little 
 longer than the spiny rays ; body red, with three dark spots on each 
 side ; two at the base of the dorsal fin, and one between the dorsal and 
 caudal. 
 
 Description. Not possessing a specimen of this fish, the following 
 is from the work of Mr Yarrell. Prevailing colour a fine orange-red 
 over all the upper part of the body, becoming lighter as it descends 
 the sides ; all the fins a rich yellow, with a tinge of dark at the edges 
 of the membranes ; part of the spinous portion of the dorsal fin, a 
 fine rich purple, with two spots at the base of the hinder soft-rayed 
 
 * Labrus carneus, Cuv., Yar., Bloch. Labrus trimaoulatus, Jen., Penn., 
 Don. Red Wrasse, Three-spotted Wrasse, Double-spotted Wrasse. 
 
THE RED WRASSE. 
 
 part of the same fin,, and one of the same deep purple colour still far- 
 ther back at the upper part of the fleshy portion of the tail. Alter- 
 nating with the last three dark spots, are four lighter coloured ones, 
 of a delicate rose colour, which appears to have given origin to the 
 name of Double-Spotted Wrasse. There are occasionally but two 
 dark spots at the hinder part of the body. The length of the head 
 measuring from the teeth to the backward projecting angle of the 
 operculum, is, to the head and body taken together, without includ- 
 ing the caudal rays, as one to three ; the depth of the body and dor- 
 sal fin, equal to the length of the head ; the depth of the body alone 
 in a line with the origin of the ventral fins, is, to the whole length 
 of the fish, as one to four ; the scales small. Number of fin rays 
 D. 30; P. 15; V. 6 ; A. 14; C. 14. 
 
 The red wrasse, or trimaculated wrasse as it is occasion- 
 ally named, has been noticed by naturalists on the coasts of 
 Cornwall and Devonshire, as well as in the Baltic and on 
 the coast of Norway. Dr Neill has recorded it in the Wer- 
 nerian Transactions, as found in the Firth of Forth. In 
 this locality it is undoubtedly a rare fish, as not a single 
 specimen has yet occurred to me from that quarter. The 
 flesh is said to be good food. 
 
 GENUS CRENILABRUS. Margin of the preopercu- 
 lum dentated. 
 
 CltENILABIlUS TINCA*. - THE CONNOR. 
 
 Specific Character. Base of the tail under the lateral line without 
 a black spot ; depth less than one-third of the length ; intervening 
 membranes of the dorsal fin without scales. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Dorsal line 
 slightly curved, falling gradually from the first ray to the snout ; head 
 compressed, more than one fourth of the whole length ; in a speci- 
 men seven inches long, the head is not one fourth of the entire length. 
 Colour of the upper parts, in the region of the back, bluish-green, 
 tinged with brownish-red ; side lighter, with longitudinal lines of 
 
 '* Crenilabrus tinea, Yar., Flem. Labrus tinea, Linn., Jen. Anciewi 
 Wrasse, Penn, Gilt-head, Connor, Golden maid. 
 
260 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 dusky blue ; cheeks bluish-green with longitudinal lines of red ; belly 
 pale ; dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, blue, spotted and streaked with 
 red ; pectorals yellowish-blue without spots or marks. Dorsal fin 
 commencing in a line over the posterior margin of the operculum and 
 ending, the length of the ventral fin rays, from the base of the tail ; 
 the first ray the shortest about one third the length of the pectorals, 
 the rest gradually increasing to the last ray but three of the soft por- 
 tion, the first seventeen rays sharp and spiny, the rest soft and flexi- 
 ble. Anal fin commencing in a line under the fourteenth ray of the 
 dorsal and terminating immediately under the last ray of the same 
 fin ; the first three rays strong and spiny, the rest branched and flexi- 
 ble ; the terminating rays, except the last ray, rather the longest ; 
 ventrals placed behind the base of the pectorals, the rays not reach- 
 ing to the vent ; pectorals rounded at the end, the upper rays the 
 longest, reaching as far as in a line under the ninth ray of the dorsal 
 fin ; tail rounded at the end, with all the rays branched except the 
 two or three lateral ones. Eyes placed high on the head, the upper 
 margin of the orbit in a line with the ascending extremity of the pre- 
 operculum. Teeth stout and conical, arranged in two rows in each 
 jaw, the second row very indistinct, confined to the anterior part, 
 about six above and four below, those in the first row, ten above 
 and fourteen below, the front ones longer and stouter than the rest, 
 no teeth on the tongue, voiner, or palatines : operculum smooth, end- 
 ing in two soft points, directing back over the base of the pectorals ; 
 preoperculum angular, margined with a number of sharp minute 
 points, scarcely perceptible except in the dried state. Scales on the 
 body large and thin, those on the operculum and cheeks smaller ; pre- 
 operculum without scales. Lateral line commencing over the middle 
 of the upperpart of the operculum, taking a slight bendat its origin, fol- 
 lowing the dorsal curve as far as the posterior part of the flexible rays, 
 where it makes an oblique turn down for a short course, from thence 
 passing straight to the base of the middle caudal ray. Number of fin 
 rays 
 
 D..24; P. 14; V. 6 ; A. 13 ; C. 13. 
 
 This fish has no particular name in the Firth of Forth 
 further than that of wrasse or old wife, and is not distin- 
 guished by the fishermen from the last species, with which 
 they always confound it. 'On the rocky parts of Preston- 
 pans, North Berwick, Largo, and Burntisland, they are not 
 unfrequently met with, and, what is singular, they are scarce- 
 ly ever taken with the hook, but mostly found in crab-cages 
 
THE CONNOR. 201 
 
 and lobster-pots. The largest specimen I have met with 
 does not exceed the length of seven inches and a half, and 
 the stomach of most of those that were examined was filled 
 with shrimps and small star-fish. The flesh when boiled 
 has a bluish-white appearance with a very disagreeable tarry 
 flavour. They are said to spawn in the month of April. 
 
 We are informed by Mr Yarrell that this species has 
 much the habits of the goldsinny, and is not uncommon on 
 the Sussex, Hampshire, and Devonshire coasts, and that 
 it has been taken at Londonderry, Dublin, and in Belfast 
 Bay. 
 
 This fish is distinguished from the last in having the pre- 
 operculum denticulated, and from the following one in the 
 base of the tail below the lateral line being without a black 
 spot. There are, however, three other British Wrasses 
 that have dentations on the preoperculum, closely resem- 
 bling the present one, viz., Crenilabrus gibbus, C. luscus^ 
 and C. rupestris, which, I have no doubt, have occasion- 
 ally occurred on the west coast of Scotland, but have been 
 confounded with C. tinea. C. gibbus is distinguished from 
 C. tinea in being much deeper in proportion to its length, 
 the depth being considerably more than one-third the length 
 of the whole fish ; in C. tinea the depth is not more than one 
 third of the length, if so much. C. luscus has the interven- 
 ing membranes of the dorsal rays furnished with imbricated 
 scales ; in C tinea there are no scales on that part. C. rupcs- 
 tris is recognised by having a conspicuous dark spot on the 
 base of the upper part of the tail, and no spot below the 
 caudal extremity of the lateral line ; in C. tinea there is no 
 dark spot on the base of the tail either above or below 
 the lateral line. Crenilabrus rupestris i the same as Lut- 
 janus rupestris of Bloch, and Labrits Cornubicus of Pen- 
 
262 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 riant's description, but not the Labrus Cornubicus of Jenyns 
 or Crenilabrus Cornubicus of Yarrell, or the CorJcwing of 
 Couch. 
 
 CRENILABRUS CORNUBICUS.* THE GOLDSINNY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Base of the tail, with a black spot, below the 
 lateral line. 
 
 Description. From a specimen four inches in length. Dorsal line 
 more rounded than in the last species ; head rather more than one- 
 fourth the length of the whole fish ; depth greater than the length of 
 the head. Colour of the back and sides reddish-brown, tinged with 
 greenish-blue, marked with twelve or fifteen longitudinal lines of a 
 darker shade ; belly pale orange-red ; dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, 
 bluish green, with spots and stripes of orange-red. Dorsal fin com- 
 mencing in a line over the margin of the operculum, and ending the 
 distance of the length of the ventral fin rays from the base of the tail ; 
 the first ray the shortest, the rest very gradually increase in length 
 to the last ray but one ; the seventeen first rays spiny ; the remainder 
 soft and flexible : anal fin commencing in a line under the twelfth 
 ray of the dorsal, and ending under the last ray but one of the same 
 fin ; the first three rays spiny, the rest rather longer and flexible ; 
 ventrals behind the base of the pectorals ; upper rays of the pectorals 
 the longest, reaching down as far as in a line under the ninth ray of 
 the dorsal fin ; tail rounded at the end, all the rays branched except 
 the short lateral ones. Eyes placed high on the head and rather re- 
 mote from the point of the snout. Operculum smooth, ending in 
 a soft flattened point, over the base of the pectorals ; preoper- 
 culum angular, finely dentated at the free margin. Teeth |rather 
 small in both jaws, pointing slightly outwards ; scales large and thin, 
 those on the cheeks smaller than the rest ; preoperculum without 
 scales. Lateral line commencing over the operculum, following the 
 curve of the back to the end of the dorsal rays, there taking a short 
 oblique bend down, from thence passing straight to the base of the 
 tail, a large black spot a little below the caudal extremity of the la- 
 teral line. Number of fin rays f 
 
 D. 24; P. 14 ; V. 6 ; A. 13; C. 14. 
 
 The habits of this species are similar to those of the 
 Wrasses generally, that of frequenting deep and rocky 
 
 * Crenilabrus Cornubicus^ Yar. Labrus Cornubicus, Jen. , but not of Penn. 
 Lutjanus Geojfri/, Risso. Corkwinp, GoMsinny. 
 
THE GOLDSINNY. 263 
 
 recesses in preference to more open and sandy situations. 
 They feed on small shells and Crustacea, which are found 
 in the greatest abundance in those places they inhabit, and 
 on some occasions I have noticed their stomachs filled with 
 vegetable matter, and apparently the roe of other fishes. 
 At Brixham, one of the principal fishing ports on the south 
 coast of Devon, I had an opportunity of witnessing several 
 of these fish taken at the mouth of the harbour, in company 
 with the Labrus maculatus and Cremlabrus tinea, which 
 were in equal plenty. All the specimens were nearly of 
 equal dimensions, not exceeding four inches and a half in 
 length, which appears to be the average size, although on 
 two occasions I observed them considerably larger, one 
 measuring seven, and the other eight inches in length, with 
 the tail-spot well developed in each. Mr Jenyns has ob- 
 served this fish at Weymouth, and I have occasionally met 
 with it in the Firth of Forth, which is the most northern 
 locality in which it has yet been noticed. In the month of 
 August I obtained three specimens in a pool of water at 
 Inchkeith, and at Prestonpans they are now and then 
 taken by small hooks baited with pieces of mussel, their 
 mouths being too small to admit of being taken by the or- 
 dinary sized hook used for sea-fishing. Although I have 
 followed Mr Yarrell in the synonyms of this fish, yet there 
 is little doubt but that it has been confounded by him and 
 other authors with the Goldsinny of Jago, which is the 
 Lutjanus rupestris of Bloch, and Labrus Cornubicus of Pen- 
 nant. Perhaps the mistake first originated with Pennant, 
 who has described the Goldsmny of Jago, and figured the 
 Goldsinny of Yarrell, but forgotten to delineate the tail- 
 spot. Although his description is laconic, yet it is certain 
 it refers to the Goldsmny, of Jago, for he says, " near the 
 tail is a remarkable black spot ; the first rays of the dorsal 
 
204 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 fin are tinged with black" this last mark decides it, as being 
 one of the characters peculiar to that fish. The Crenila- 
 brus Cornubicus of Yarrell is the Labrus Cornubicus of 
 Jenyns and of Donovan ; the Corkwing of Couch, and the 
 Lutjanus Geoffroy of Risso. 
 
 This species is readily distinguished by having a black 
 spot at the base of the tail below the lateral line, a charac- 
 ter which none of the other British Wrasses possess. 
 
 CRENILABRUS RUPESTRIS.* JAGG'S GOLDSINNY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Anterior part of the dorsal fin,, as far as the 
 fifth ray, black ; a large black spot at the base of the upper caudal 
 rays. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. Head one- 
 fourth of the whole length, caudal rays included ; depth of the body 
 less than the length of the head; dorsal line nearly straight, falling 
 gradually in front from the nape to the point of the snout ; sides 
 rather compressed. Colour of the head and back yellowish-brown ; 
 sides somewhat lighter ; belly dull white ; the membranes between 
 the first four dorsal spines deep black ; a large conspicuous black 
 spot at the base of the upper part of the caudal fin ; dorsal fin com- 
 mencing in a line over the base of the pectorals and running down 
 the back to within a short distance of the base of the caudal, leaving 
 a space between, about equalling the length of the pectoral rays ; 
 the anterior seventeen rays, strong and spiny, nearly all of equal 
 length, except the first two or three which are rather the shortest ; 
 the posterior rays soft and branched, and longer than those preced- 
 ing, the middle flexible rays being half as long again as the spiny 
 rays, presenting a rounded form to that portion of the fin ; the mem- 
 brane between each dorsal spine terminating in a fine pointed fila- 
 ment ; caudal fin rounded, all the rays branched except two or three 
 of the lateral ones, which are simple ; the middle ray as long as the 
 base of the nine first dorsal spines ; pectorals rounded, the fifth and 
 sixth rays the longest, equalling the length of the base of the anal 
 fin ; all the rays, except the first, soft and branched ; ventrals taking 
 their origin rather behind the base of the pectorals ; the first ray stout 
 and spiny, the rest soft ; the longest ray about half the length of the 
 
 * Labrus Cornubicus, Penn. (Description, not figure.) Lutjanus rupestris^ 
 Bloch. 
 
JAGO'S GOLDSINNY. 265 
 
 head ; anal fin commencing in a line under the fourteenth ray of the 
 dorsal, and terminating immediately under the last ray but one of 
 the same fin ; all the rays nearly of equal length, except the three 
 first, which are stout and spiny, and somewhat shorter, the rest soft 
 and flexible, the longest rays being as long as the base of the first six 
 dorsal spines, and equalling the length of the middle flexible rays of 
 the same fin ; head in front of the ascending margin of the pre- 
 operculum somewhat of a triangular form; snout pointed; mouth 
 small ; jaws of equal length. Teeth, on the anterior part of each 
 jaw, long and sharp, with their points bending slightly inwards ; 
 those behind much smaller and more numerous; eyes moderate, 
 placed high on the head and half-way between the point of the upper 
 jaw and the posterior margin of the operculum ; cheeks, gill-covers, 
 and body, covered with scales, as well as the intervening membranes 
 of the caudal fin, those on the sides being much larger than else- 
 where. Preoperculum angular, the posterior margin finely serrated, 
 the lower border entire ; operculum terminating over the base of the 
 pectoral in a small flattened point, the lower margin somewhat sinu- 
 ous ; lateral line placed high up, commencing at the upper part of 
 the operculum, running parallel with the dorsal line as far as in a 
 line under the last ray of the dorsal fin where it takes a sudden bend, 
 thence passing straight to the base of the middle caudal ray ; four 
 scales in an oblique row between the middle of the dorsal fin and 
 lateral line ; along the course of the lateral line, as far as the base of 
 the caudal fin, thirty-seven scales. Number of fin rays 
 D. 25 ; P. 15 ; V. 6 ; A. 11 ; C. 14. 
 
 This species, which was first observed by Mr Jago, on 
 the Cornish coast, has been obtained by Mr Couch from 
 the same quarter, and a specimen of three inches in length 
 is figured in Mr YarrelPs work on the British Fish, vol. i. 
 page 301, under the name of the Scale- rayed Wrasse. 
 Several examples have since been observed on the Northum- 
 berland and Berwickshire coasts, and specimens are occa- 
 sionally found in the Firth of Forth, washed ashore after 
 strong easterly gales. It is a fish of little value for the 
 table, its flesh, like most of the species in this genus, being 
 soft and insipid. 
 
FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 ORDER IT. MALACOPTERYGIL 
 
 All the fin rays soft and flexible, except sometimes the 
 first of the dorsal or pectoral fins. 
 
 I. ABDOMINALES. 
 
 Ventral fins placed on the lower part of the abdomen, 
 under the first dorsal fin, or nearly so. 
 
 FAMILY I. C YPRIN ID yE. Dorsal fin one; mouth 
 small, mostly without teeth ; belly not compressed, never 
 serrated ; intestinal canal short, destitute of caeca. Inha- 
 bitants of fresh waters ; swimming bladder generally di- 
 vided into two lobes. 
 
 GENUS LEUCISCUS. Dorsal and anal fins short ; nose 
 without cirri, tail forked. 
 
 LEUCISCUS RUTILUS.* THE ROACH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body deep, scales large ; anal fin red ; base 
 of the tail without a black spot. 
 
 Description. From a specimen six inches and a half in length. 
 Dorsal line more convex than that of the abdomen ; head one-fifth 
 the length of the whole fish, caudal fin included; depth of the body 
 at the commencement of the dorsal fin one -fourth the length, as far 
 as to the end of the middle caudal rays. Colour of the back dusky- 
 blue, sides lighter, cheeks and abdomen silvery, irides yellowish ; 
 dorsal and caudal fins pale red ; ventrals and anal bright red ; pec- 
 torals pale orange, sometimes dusky red. First ray of the dorsal fin 
 commencing exactly half- way between the point of the nose and the 
 
 * Leuciscus rutilus, Cuv., Yarr. ; Cyprimts ruiilus, Linn., Perm., Jen. 
 
THE ROACH. 267 
 
 base of the middle caudal ray ; the first ray short, not half the length 
 of the second ; the third ray the longest in that fin ; the rest gradu- 
 ally diminishing in height ; the last ray about the length of the first ; 
 the sixth ray equalling the length of the base of the fin ; first two 
 rays simple, the rest branched. Anal fin commencing in a vertical 
 line under the tip of the last ray but one of the dorsal fin, when fold- 
 ed down; the first ray short, not half the length of the second, both 
 simple ; the remainder branched ; the third ray the longest, the sixth 
 as long as the base of the fin. Ventral fins of the same length as the 
 pectorals, arising in a vertical line under the base of the first ray of 
 the dorsal. Pectorals as long as from the tip of the nose to the base 
 of the occiput, the first ray simple, the second the longest in that fin, 
 and, like the remainder, branched at the summit. Eye rather large> 
 the lower margin of the orbit extending below the middle of the 
 cheek ; operculum and suboperculum, taken together, rounded at 
 their free margins ; preoperculum more angular; mouth small ; the jaws 
 nearly equal ; teeth wanting. Scales large, each marked with three 
 or four radiating lines beside concentric ones ; the number of scales 
 forming the lateral line forty-three ; in an oblique row between the 
 dorsal fin and lateral line, seven and a half ; between the lateral line 
 and ventral fin, three and a half. Lateral line commencing over the 
 upper part of the operculum, and taking a descending course below 
 the middle to the base of the tail ; caudal fin deeply forked ; the mid- 
 dle ray one-third the length of the longest ray in the same fin ; the 
 longest ray equalling the length of the head. Number of fin rays 
 D.ll; P. 16; V.9; A. 12 ; C.19; B. 3. 
 
 The Roach is a gregarious fish, keeping in large shoals, 
 and is said to be abundant in all the rivers throughout the 
 temperate parts of Europe. It seldom grows to a large 
 size ; one of three pound weight is considered uncommon, 
 although it is recorded by Pennant to weigh occasionally 
 five pounds. Every summer in the early part of May, im- 
 mense shoals of Roach are observed to leave Loch Lomond, 
 to ascend the different tributary streams for the purpose of 
 depositing their spawn. During this period, which sel- 
 dom lasts more than three days, the rivers are literally 
 swarming with their numbers, giving a fine green appearance 
 to the whole surface of the water. On this occasion, every 
 basket arid net in the neighbouring villages are immediately 
 
208 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 put in requisition, and the thousands thus taken afford food 
 to the villagers for a short period. It is remarked by anglers, 
 that during the time these fish are in the streams, and for a 
 week after their departure, not a trout can be taken either with 
 the minnow, worm, or fly, in consequence of the favourite 
 food being at that time the roe of the Roach, with which 
 the trout gorge themselves to a considerable extent. By 
 Donovan it is supposed, that Roach come up in large shoals 
 from the sea to deposit their spawn, and Montagu expres- 
 ses his belief, that the Roach could not exist in sea-water 
 at all. To this I may add, that, although the sea is not 
 the natural abode of the Roach, yet, sometimes it is found 
 there, being carried down from rivers or lakes after high 
 floods. In the Solway Firth, I saw in the month of June 
 five examples taken in the salmon-nets, and, I was informed 
 by the fishermen there, that in the early part of the season 
 they frequently captured them after a flood. This fish as 
 food, is little sought after, but is in the best condition for 
 the table in the month of October. It feeds on worms and 
 small insects. The only locality known for the Roach in 
 the neighbourhood of Edinburgh, is the Union Canal, where 
 it was first noticed by James Wilson, Esq. 
 
 LEUCISCUS PHOXINUS.* THE MINNOW. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body elongated; scales small; base of the 
 tail with a black spot. 
 
 Description. From a specimen two inches and a half in length. 
 Dorsal and ventral line but slightly convex ; head one-fifth of the 
 whole length, caudal fin included ; depth rather less than the length 
 of the head. Colour of the back and sides as far as the lateral line, 
 in those which inhabit deep and slow running waters, olive-brown; 
 belly silvery white, often tinged with yellow ; head dark olive with a 
 
 * Leuciscus phoxinus. Ouv., Yar., Flem. Cyprinus pho,vinus. Jen., Penn., 
 Don. Minnow, Baffles, Cumberland. 
 
THE MINNOW. 200 
 
 dark line extending from the nape to the dorsal fin, from thence to 
 the tail ; dorsal and caudal fins light brown ; ventrals and anal fin, 
 pale yellow ; sides marked by a broad olive band extending from the 
 eye to the base of the tail. In those which frequent rapid and shal- 
 low streams the back is of a deep olive ; sides of a lighter shade, 
 beautifully mottled with black, yellow, green, and white ; belly 
 white, tinged with red; under part of the throat black ; base of the 
 pectorals, ventrals and anal fin, deep crimson ; head dark olive, 
 marked with a number of white elevated portions of the cuticle ; the 
 whole fish is liable to much variation in colour, depending on the 
 period of the season and the places in which it inhabits. First ray of 
 the dorsal fin commencing exactly half-way between the point of the 
 snout and the tip of the long caudal rays ; the first ray short, not half 
 as long as the second; the third the longest in the fin ; the sixth as 
 long as the base of the fin, the last about the length of the first ; the 
 first and second rays simple, the rest branched. Caudal fin deeply 
 forked, the middle ray half the length of the longest ray ; a black spot 
 at the base of the tail. Anal fin commencing in a vertical line under 
 the last ray but one of the dorsal fin, and answering in every other 
 respect to that of the dorsal. Ventrals arising a little in advance of 
 the dorsal, and extending to the vent ; pectorals as long as from the 
 tip of the nose to the posterior margin of the preoperculum ; the first 
 ray simple, the remainder branched, the second longest in the fin. 
 Eyes moderate, placed nearer the point of the snout than to the pos- 
 terior margin of the operculum ; mouth small ; jaws of equal length. 
 Lateral line scarcely perceptible, commencing over the operculum, 
 and taking a descending course below the middle to the base of the 
 tail; scales small, none on the head or cheeks. Number of fin 
 rays 
 
 D. 9; P. 16; V. 8; A. 9; C. 19. 
 
 In the north of Scotland the Minnow does not seem to 
 exist, as not a single specimen was observed by a party of 
 Ichthyologists who lately visited the different lakes and 
 rivers in the county of Sutherland. It is however found 
 in some of the tributaries of the Dee, appearing more 
 plentiful as we advance south. It inhabits all the rivers 
 entering the Firth of Forth, but in the Teith, about fifteen 
 miles above Stirling, it becomes very scarce, although of a 
 larger size than usual, measuring from three to three and a 
 
270 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 lialf inches in length. The Minnow abounds in great num- 
 bers in some of the rivers in England, particularly in those 
 in the county of Devon, where it is not an uncommon oc- 
 currence, by making small bays, and by the aid of a net, 
 to procure from a peck to a peck and a half of these beauti- 
 ful little fish in the space of an hour. After the month of 
 June when most of them have finished spawning, the males 
 ascend the shallows in large shoals, occupying sometimes 
 the space of several feet in circumference, and giving the 
 water an appearance, with their little white spotted heads, 
 of a bed of Ranunculus aquatilis before the buds have fully 
 expanded. 
 
 These fish are considered good, being sweet and well 
 flavoured, equalling any of the fresh-water fish as food. 
 When a sufficient number can be obtained for a fry, they 
 are in general cooked without being scraped or embowelled, 
 which adds greatly to their richness. Worms and aquatic 
 insects appear to be their principal food, although they are 
 sometimes observed to feed on dead animal matter. 
 
 GENUS COBITIS. Dorsal and anal fins short ; nose 
 with cirri ; tail even. 
 
 COBITIS BARBATULA.* THE LOACH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Snout with six cirri ; nose without spines. 
 
 Description. From a specimen three inches in length. Body 
 elongated ; dorsal and ventral outline similar ; head one-sixth of the 
 whole length, caudal included ; depth less than the length'of the head. 
 Colour of the back and sides, yellowish-white, beautifully mottled 
 with dark brown j dorsal, caudal, and pectorals of the same appear- 
 ance ; ventrals and anal nearly plain. First ray of the dorsal fin com- 
 mencing exactly midway between the point of the nose and base of 
 
 * Cobitis barbahda, Linn., Yarr., Jen., Penn. Loach, Beardie. 
 
THE LOACH. 271 
 
 middle caudal rays ; the third and fourth rays the longest, the last 
 the shortest, equalling the length of the base of the fin ; the first 
 two simple, the remainder branched ; caudal fin even at the end, the 
 rays equalling the length of the head. Anal fin far behind the dorsal, 
 the first ray commencing half way between the base of the ventral 
 fin and the base of the middle caudal rays ; the third ray the longest, 
 the last the shortest, as long as the base of the fin, the first two rays 
 simple, the rest branched. Ventrals the length of the anal, placed 
 in a vertical line under the fourth ray of the dorsal, the third ray the 
 longest ; pectorals equalling the length of the dorsal, the third and 
 fourth rays the longest. Snout blunt ; lips fleshy ; under jaw the 
 shortest ; eyes small, placed high on the head ; barbules six in num- 
 ber, one at each corner of the mouth ; two in front of the upper lip, 
 and two immediately behind it. Scales small and adherent ; lateral 
 line commencing over the upper part of the operculum, and running 
 straight to the base of the middle caudal ray ; body invested with a 
 mucous secretion. Number of fin rays 
 D. 9; P. 11; V. 7; A. 7; C. ]8;B. 3. 
 
 The Loach is found in most of our rivers in England, 
 as well as in many streams in the north of Scotland, and in 
 all the rivers entering the Firth of Forth. It prefers in- 
 habiting streams where the bottom is gravelly and covered 
 with large stones, under which it lurks, and so being often 
 overlooked is sometimes considered scarce. 
 
 When the rivers become muddy and much increased in 
 size by heavy falls of rain, these fish are found to leave the 
 middle of the streams, and seek refuge under banks and small 
 tufts of grass, where they are taken in nets by anglers and 
 greatly prized as bait for trout. The food of the Loach is 
 aquatic insects and worms ; and it seldom moves three 
 inches out of its way to take a bait, however tempting, but 
 seizes it with great eagerness when placed at its nose. This 
 fish is often eaten as a dainty morsel, and by some is said to 
 rival the Minnow as food. It is occasionally preserved in 
 the same manner as Anchovies, and considered superior 
 both in flavour and richness. 
 
272 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 Cobitis barbatula is very much allied to Bbtia tama, dif- 
 fering from it in having no spines in front of the nose ; 
 whereas B. tce?iia\)as a large spine just behind each nos- 
 tril. 
 
 In September last, I rather think that a specimen of 
 Bujtia tcenm came under my observation in the river Teith, 
 as far as I was able to judge through the dense medium in 
 which it was placed, but failed in obtaining it, in conse- 
 quence of the wind being high, and the water dipcoloured. 
 
 FAMILY II. ESOCID^E. Dorsal fin one; mouth large, 
 with sharp teeth ; intestinal canal short, destitute of caeca; 
 body shaped like the Pike.; nearly all possess a swimming 
 bladder. 
 
 GENUS ESOX. Snout rounded, broad, and depressed ; 
 teeth in both jaws, as well as on the vomer, palatines, 
 tongue and pharyngeans. 
 
 Esox LUCIUS.* THE PIKE. 
 
 Specific Characters. Eye placed half-way between the tip of the 
 snout and the posterior margin of the operculum. 
 
 Description. From a specimen two feet in length. Body rather 
 elongated ; greatest depth less than the length of the head ; head 
 one-fourth of the whole length, caudal fin included. Colour liable 
 to much variation. " During the earliest stage of its life it is of a 
 greenish hue ; in the second year it becomes grey with pale spots, 
 the latter ultimately acquiring a yellowish colour. Instances have 
 occurred of its being perfectly white." Dorsal fin placed near the 
 tail, the first ray commencing a little in advance of the vent, the last 
 ray in a line over the eleventh ray of the anal ; the middle rays the 
 longest, as long as the base of the fin ; anal fin arising in a vertical 
 line under the seventh ray of the dorsal ; the middle rays the long- 
 est, more than equalling the base of the fin ; caudal fin forked, the 
 
 * Esox lucius, Linn., Cuv., Yar., Jen.,Penn., Don. Pike, Jack, Pickerell, 
 Luce, Gedd. 
 
THE PIKE. 273 
 
 middle ray half the' length of the longest ray in the same fin ; ventral 
 fins situated half-way between the point of the lower jaw and the 
 tip of the long caudal ray, about equalling the length of the pecto- 
 rals ; pectorals as long as from the point of the upper jaw to the 
 middle of the eye ; the fifth and sixth ray the longest ; operculum 
 and preoperculum rounded ; eyes moderate, placed high on the head, 
 half-way between the point of the snout, and the posterior margin of 
 the operculum ; mouth large, under jaw the longest ; vomer, palatines/, 
 tongue, intermaxillaries, pharyngeans, and branchial arches, fur- 
 nished with sharp teeth ; also a row of teeth on the lower jaw, those 
 on the sides much the longest ; cheeks, upper part of the operculum, 
 and body, covered with small adherent scales, invested in a mucous 
 secretion ; lateral line nearly straight, very indistinct. Number of 
 fin rays 
 
 D. 18 ; P. 14 ; V. 10 ; A. 17 ; C. 19 ; B. 14. 
 
 This fish is said to grow with great rapidity. " In the 
 first year it is often from eight to ten inches long ; the second 
 year from twelve to fourteen, and in the third year from 
 eighteen to twenty inches in length." Individuals are re- 
 corded as measuring from five to nine feet in length. They 
 frequently weigh above thirty pounds in the lakes of the 
 north of England ; and Dr Grierson mentions one taken 
 in Loch Ken in Galloway, which weighed sixty-one pounds. 
 The most remarkable pike, however, of which we have any 
 authentic account, is that caught at Kaiserslautern, near 
 Manheim, in 1497, which was nearly nineteen feet in length, 
 and weighed 340 pounds. It was supposed to have been 
 upwards of 235 years old." 
 
 The pike occurs in great abundance in Asia and North 
 America, and inhabits almost all the fresh-waters of Europe, 
 but deems to flourish most in the northern and middle counties 
 It is one of the most voracious and destructive fish in ex- 
 istence ; there seems indeed to be no bounds to its glut- 
 tony, for it devours indiscriminately whatever edible sub- 
 stance falls in its way, and almost every animal it is able 
 to subdue, This fish is not only gifted with strength, 
 
 VOL. VII. * 
 
274 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 and size, but is also adorned with great richness and 
 variety of colour. It is in rivers, lakes, and ponds, that 
 this formidable species is to be found. It is never seen 
 but accidentally in the sea, and Rondelet informs us that 
 such as are taken by chance in the mouth of the Rhine, 
 or in salt pools which border the Mediterranean, are dry, 
 and without flavour. In the Forth they are frequently 
 seen in the brackish water ; and are often observed off 
 Stirling Bridge basking in the shallows. They are also 
 found in Duddingston Loch and Lochend, but few in 
 number and of small size. The pike spawns in February 
 and March, and deposits its ova on stones and plants ; 
 more than one hundred and forty-eight thousand eggs have 
 been counted in a female of the middle size. " The flesh 
 of the pike is white, firm, savoury, and easy of digestion. 
 It is never very fat, and is, therefore, a suitable aliment for 
 convalescents and other persons who have a weak stomach, 
 especially if it be the flesh of a young fish. Its liver is very 
 good, but its eggs excite nausea, and even violent purging. 
 In some places, it is said, indeed, that their eggs are used 
 as a cathartic. 1 '* 
 
 GENUS EELONE. Snout attenuated, greatly prolong- 
 ed ; teeth in both jaws, none on the palatines or tongue ; 
 dorsal and anal fins entire. 
 
 BELONE vuLGARis.t THE GAR-FISH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fin with seventeen or eighteen rays. 
 
 Description. From a specimen two feet in length. Body elongat- 
 ed, tapering behind the dorsal and anal fins ; from the tip of the jaws 
 to the posterior margin of the operculum, one-fourth of the whole 
 
 * Encyclopaedia Britannioa. 
 
 f Belone vulgaris, Cuv., Yarr., Flem. Esoxbelone, Linn., Jen., Penn., 
 Don. Gar-fish, Sea-pike, Mackerell-yuide, Green-bone, Long-nose, Gorebilh 
 
THE GAR-PISH. 275 
 
 length ; abdomen bounded on each side by a longitudinal series of 
 large imbricated scales ; cheeks compressed ; head flat on the sum- 
 mit, marked by a number of radiating lines ; snout very much pro- 
 duced, ending in a sharp point, slightly raised in front of the nos- 
 trils. Operculum and preoperculum rounded ; eyes large, extending 
 below the middle of the cheek, placed nearer the angle of the mouth 
 than to the posterior border of the ' preoperculum. Colour of the 
 head, back, and sides, bluish-green ; gill-covers and belly silvery- 
 white ; pectorals, ventrals, and anal, pale straw colour ; dorsal and 
 caudal dusky ; dorsal fin situated near the tail, commencing in a line 
 over the second ray of the anal, and terminating in a vertical line 
 over the last ray but one of the same fin ; the third ray the longest, 
 the fourth, fifth, and sixth, suddenly diminishing in height, the se- 
 venth as long as the base of the five first rays, the remainder of the 
 rays of equal length ; anal fin commencing a little in advance of the 
 dorsal, and ending a little behind the last ray of that fin ; the first 
 and second rays simple, the rest branched, the third the longest, 
 fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth, suddenly diminishing in 
 height, the remainder of equal length ; caudal fin deeply forked, the 
 middle ray one-third the length of the longest ray ; ventral fins short- 
 er than the pectorals, situated about the length of the upper jaw 
 from the commencement of the anal ; the first ray broad and simple, 
 the rest branched, the second the longest in the fin ; pectorals of the 
 same form as the ventrals. Body covered with large deciduous 
 scales ; cheeks, head, and opercle, also with scales ; teeth small and 
 fine in both jaws, as well as on the vomer.* Number of fin rays 
 D. 18; P. 13; V.6; A. 22; C. 16. 
 
 The Gar-fish has been noticed on the coast of Cornwall, 
 on the Essex coast, and as far north as on the shores of 
 Norway and Sweden. It has also been observed on the 
 coast of Ireland, from Cork to Londonderry. It enters the 
 Firth of Forth in large shoals about the beginning of July, 
 in company with the Mackerel, and remains till the end of 
 August ; but is seldom found to ascend the Firth to any dis- 
 tance, but confiningitself principally to the neighbourhood of 
 the Bass and the May. These fish are caught both with the 
 
 * Mr Jeuyns, in his Manual of British Vertebrate Animals, states that the 
 head and opercle are without scales, and the vomer without teeth, 
 
 s 2 
 
276 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 net and hook, and are sometimes found on haddock lines, 
 which had been baited with mussels. They are occasionally 
 brought to market, and considered by many persons to be 
 superior to the mackerel as food, being firmer and whiter 
 in the flesh, and possessing much of the same flavour. The 
 bones, which are always green, frequently create disgust. 
 
 This species is distinguished from the Scomberesox sau- 
 r\s, in having the dorsal and anal fins entire, which in the 
 
 <y. sauris are divided behind into five or more finlets as in 
 
 ^ 
 
 the mackerel. 
 
 GENUS SCOMBERESOX. Snout attenuated, greatly 
 prolonged ; teeth in both jaws, more on the palatines or 
 tongues ; dorsal and anal fins divided behind into finlets. 
 
 SCOMBERESOX SAURIS.* THE SAURY PIKE. 
 
 Specific Character. Dorsal fin with five, and anal with eight spu- 
 rious fins. 
 
 Description. " From a specimen fourteen inches and three-quar- 
 ters in length. Body elongated, considerably deeper for its length 
 than that of the gar-fish ; length of the jaws and head, compared to 
 the whole length of the fish, as one to four ; the depth of the body 
 two inches, or, as compared to the whole, as two to seven. Pecto- 
 ral fins small ; a keel-like edge, commencing on each side in a line 
 with the low edge of the gill-covers, passes the whole length of the 
 body ; the space between these lines not wider than one quarter of 
 an inch, except where they dilate a little to include or pass outside 
 of the ventral fins ; the dorsal and anal fins placed far back, and com- 
 mence on the same plane ; the dorsal fin with five finlets behind it ; 
 anal with seven finlets behind it ; tail deeply forked ; the two por- 
 tions divided as far as the posterior edge of a scale-like appendage 
 with which the fleshy portion terminates. Cheeks and gill-covers 
 silvery- white ; irides golden-yellow ; pupil rather elongated verti- 
 cally ; upper part of the head and back, of a fine dark blue, lighter 
 on the sides, and tinged with green ; lower part of the sides and 
 
 M 
 
 * Scomberesox saurus, Cuv., Yarr. Esox saurfa Penn., Don., Jen*- 
 Saury Pike, Skipper, Gowdnook, Gofnick. A 
 
THE SAURY PIKE. 277 
 
 belly silvery- white ; all the fins dusky-brown. Number of fin rays 
 " D. 9, V ; P. 13 ; V. 6 ; A. 11, VII ; C. 19." Yarrell. 
 
 Mr Couch says, that the Saury Pike is common in Corn- 
 wall, and is more strictly a migratory fish than the gar- pike, 
 never being seen in the channel until the month of June, 
 and commonly departs before the end of autumn. " It is 
 gregarious, and is sometimes seen to rise to the surface in 
 large shoals, and flit over a considerable space. When 
 closely pursued by the porpoises, tunny, and bonito, which 
 are their greatest enemies, they will singly spring to the 
 height of several feet, leap over each other in singular 
 confusion, and again sink beneath. Still further urged, 
 they rise again, and rush along the surface by repeated 
 starts for more than a hundred feet, without once dipping 
 beneath, or scarcely seeming to touch the water. More 
 than twenty thousand, by computation, have been seen out 
 of the water at one time/ 1 They have been observed as 
 far north as the Orkneys. According to Dr Neill it is not 
 an uncommon fish in the Firth of Forth, where it is found 
 as high up as Kincardine ; but of late years, not a single 
 specimen has been observed in the Firth, In November 
 1768, great numbers of these fish were thrown ashore on 
 the sands of Leith after a great storm from the east. It is 
 considered a stupid inactive fish, and is said to be frequently 
 found in the shallows when the tide retires, with its long 
 nose imbedded in the mud. 
 
 FAMILY III. SALMONID^E. Dorsal fins two; the 
 first with rays ; second adipose without rays. 
 
 GENUS SALMO. Branchiostegous membrane with more 
 than eight rays ; anal fin with less than twelve rays ; gape 
 wide; teeth sharp and stout; intestinal canal provided 
 with numerous caeca. 
 
278 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 SALMO SALAR.* THE SALMON. 
 
 Specific Characters. Lower third of the pectorals, as well as the 
 membranes between the three first rays of the ventral fins, black ; 
 middle ray of the caudal fin not exceeding half the length of the 
 longest ray in the same fin ; vomerine teeth confined to the anterior 
 extremity. (See Plate XXXII. Fig. 1.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen three feet and a half in 
 length. The whole fish of an elongated oval form ; greatest depth 
 in front of the dorsal fin ; head one-fifth of the whole length, cau- 
 dal fin not included ; snout rather sharp ; jaws nearly equal ; pos- 
 terior margin of the gill-cover rounded ; preoperculum rather angu- 
 lar ; lower margin of the operculum directed obliquely upwards and 
 backwards, in a line with the base of the first ray of the dorsal fin. Co- 
 lour of the back and sides, as far as a little above the lateral line, 
 bluish-grey ; below the line silvery- white, occasionally with blue re- 
 flections ; summit of the head dark olive-green ; dorsal and caudal fins 
 dusky black ; ventrals and anal whitish, with the membranes, be- 
 tween the first three rays of the former, tinged with black j pectorals 
 behind dusk ; the lower third black ; above the lateral line a num- 
 ber of black scattered spots ; below it, in the region of the pectorals, 
 three spots (few individuals exceed six spots below the line) ; oper- 
 culum with a round black spot (occasionally there are three spots). 
 First dorsal fin placed exactly half-way between the point of the upper 
 jaw and the base of the middle caudal rays ; the first ray short and 
 simple, not half the length of the second ray, which is also simple ; the 
 rest branched ; the third the longest, not quite equalling the length 
 of the base of the fin ; the last two rays of equal height, exactly half 
 the length of the sixth ray. Second dorsal fin adipose, without rays, 
 placed nearer the dorsal fin than to the end of the caudal rays, and 
 situated in a vertical line over the base of the last anal ray. Tail fin 
 lunated, the middle ray not quite half the length of the longest ray 
 in the same fin. The sixth ray of the anal fin equalling the length 
 of the base of that fin ; the first two rays simple, the rest branched ; 
 the third the longest, the last the shortest, about half the length of 
 the sixth. Ventral fin arising in a vertical line under the base of the 
 last ray but four of the dorsal ; the first ray simple, the rest branched ; 
 the second the longest, equalling the length of the fifth dorsal ray ; 
 the last ray the shortest, rather more than half the length of the long- 
 est ray. Pectorals as long as the base of the dorsal fin ; the first 
 ray simple, the rest branched ; the second and third rays the longest, 
 
 * Salmo salar 9 GUV., Linn., Yarr., Jen., Penn., Flem. 
 
THE SALMON. 279 
 
 the last the shortest,, about half the length of the fourth. Eye placed 
 half way between the point of the snout and the upper corner of the 
 gill-cover ; mouth large ; maxillaries extending back, as far as in a 
 vertical line with the posterior margin of the orbit. Teeth sharp and 
 stout in both jaws, as well as on the tongue, vomer, and palatines ; 
 those on the vomer but two in number, confined to the most ante- 
 rior part ; those on the tongue four (never exceeding six, sometimes 
 only one). Scales on the body large and thin, about 120 forming 
 the lateral line ; in an oblique backward row, between the middle 
 of the dorsal fin and lateral line twenty-one scales; between the middle 
 of the anal fin and lateral line in an oblique row fourteen scales. Late- 
 ral line straight throughout its course, dividing the body, in the re- 
 gion of the dorsal and ventral fins, into two equal parts; csecal ap- 
 pendages sixty-two, seldom or never less than fifty-eight. Number 
 of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 12; P. 13; V.9 ; A. 10; C. 19; "Vertebra 60." 
 
 The'Salmo solar is the largest species of the Salmonida?, 
 and is said to attain sometimes the weight of eighty pounds 
 or more, but one of half that size in the present age is con- 
 sidered worthy of notice, the average size being from 
 eighteen to twenty pounds in weight. u The common sal- 
 mon inhabits the seas around Great Britain, and extends to 
 the north of Europe and to Asia, but it is not properly as- 
 certained that those found in North America are identical. 
 There is no doubt that the true abode of the salmon is the 
 sea, for as soon as it has entered the rivers, it begins to de- 
 teriorate in condition, the scales lose their brilliant silvery 
 lustre, and the flesh becomes soft and pale ; and that they 
 are drawn to the fresh waters by a natural instinct widely 
 implanted by Almighty power, for the purpose of repro- 
 duction, an instinct which enables them to stem the cur- 
 rent of the most rapid waters, to ascend precipitous falls, 
 and to pass through weirs and other obstacles of human 
 art, which no other power could overcome. The necessity 
 of a suitable place being found, in which to deposit their 
 ova, together with the advantage of destroying the marine 
 insects, which infest and torment them, is the principal pur- 
 
280 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 pose of their being made to seek the rivers. Salmon gene- 
 rally delay entering fresh water in great numbers, until 
 the streams become somewhat swollen by rain, although in 
 the large rivers there may be said to be a limited daily run. 
 When the flood has fairly mingled with, and to a certain 
 extent saturated, the estuaries, the run of fish is often very 
 great, especially if there has been a continued tract of dry 
 weather. In the latter case they collect at the mouths of 
 rivers and are often taken in vast numbers ; but they do 
 not then attempt an ascent, deterred perhaps by the clear- 
 ness of the stream, or by some instinctive feeling that the 
 waters would yet be deficient to carry them through.*" 
 During the continuation of the floods, when the waters be- 
 come discoloured, the fish rush up with the greatest velocity, 
 and make wonderful efforts to surmount cascades and other 
 impediments, by leaping elevations of from eight to ten 
 feet, so as to gain the waters above and pursue their course. 
 The rate at which they travel is supposed to be from fifteen 
 to twenty-five miles daily, arid probably at a much greater 
 speed where the waters are deeper and the interruptions 
 less frequent. Having ascended the river to a considerable 
 distance they proceed more slowly, resting for a time in 
 pools by the way, or in some chosen spot where they remain 
 until called forth by that law of nature which compels them 
 to seek the shallows to deposit their spawn. " As the spawn 
 advances the symmetry of the form is disfigured ; the fe- 
 male becomes disproportionately large, the colours lose the 
 brightness of their silvery tints, and become dull and grey. 
 The male becomes thin upon the back, the nose elongates, 
 and the under jaw turns up in a large and strong hook, 
 which enters a hollow in the nose before the intermaxil- 
 lary bone. The colours and markings become brown and 
 
 Encyclopaedia Britannic*. 
 
THE SALMON. 281 
 
 red, those on the head and gill-covers being particularly 
 brilliant, and disposed in lines almost like the markings of 
 a Labrus. In this full breeding dress, the male and fe- 
 male seek some ford or shallow streams, and commence to 
 excavate a trench or furrow. In this the spawn is deposit- 
 ed and impregnated at the same time, and finally covered 
 with gravel by the exertions of the fish. The furrow is 
 generally from six to nine inches in depth, and when the 
 spawn has appeared to be covered beyond that depth, this 
 has occurred from some other circumstances, such as the 
 stream or floods having carried downwards additional 
 masses of gravel, &c. After this great effort has been ac- 
 complished, both sexes are reduced to a state of remarkable 
 emaciation. The elongated nose, and hooked jaw, and the 
 brilliant colours, are almost immediately lost, the old scales 
 are cast, and the fish retire to some pool to regain their 
 strength. They finally redescend to the sea by easy stages, 
 where their former condition and silvery lustre are regained,* 
 their strength invigorated, and all their functions so re- 
 paired as to enable them ere long to renew their visit to the 
 flowing streams, again to multiply their race."f 
 
 Thespawnis shed in different rivers, sooner or later, between 
 the month of October and the end of April, and continues 
 covered by the gravel from about a hundred to a hundred 
 and fourteen days, after which it begins to vivify ; and it is 
 probable, under certain circumstances, such as the tempera- 
 ture of the water and the mildness of the season, that the 
 ova may become developed much sooner, or within a few 
 weeks after their deposition. The spawn, if deposited in 
 the commencement of October, will exclude the young dur- 
 
 * Their silvery lustre is frequently regained before they reach the sea. 
 f Encyclopedia Britannica. 
 
282 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 ing some part of January or perhaps earlier, when the fry 
 .may be observed a little more than half an inch in length, 
 with a part of the ovum adhering to the abdominal region, 
 which remains about a month attached and then becomes 
 absorbed. At this age the fry are of a translucent, shape- 
 less appearance, the head small and rounded ; the eyes large ; 
 the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins continuous, and the tail 
 rounded at the end. In February they are found one inch in 
 length, assuming more the appearance of a fish ; the head 
 one-fourth the whole length, caudal not included ; all the 
 fins separate, with the caudal slightly notched at the ex- 
 tremity ; along the course of the depressed lateral line, are 
 placed from nine to eleven transverse dusky bars, which are 
 as yet obscurely visible. In March they are about two 
 inches in length with the lateral bars more conspicuous, and 
 the tail-fin deeper notched. In April they are seen in the 
 Tweed from three to four inches in length, with the back 
 of a dark blue and slightly spotted ; belly and under the 
 throat pure white ; lateral bars very conspicuous, having a 
 bright red spot placed between each ; the sides below the 
 bars are frequently tinged with yellowish-green ; pectorals 
 dusky ; ventrals and anal pale straw colour ; operculum 
 with one or two large black spots, tinged occasionally with 
 red ; caudal deeply forked. In May they are observed the 
 length of from four to five inches or more, and at the end 
 of that month they perform their first migration to the sea ; 
 they are now of a fine silvery appearance, the back of a 
 deep glossy blue, the cheeks, sides, and belly of a pure 
 silvery -white ; the ends of the pectorals black ; the dorsal 
 and caudal dusky ; ventrals and anal, and the last two rays 
 of the dorsal, white ; the spots on the gill-covers rather ob- 
 scuue ; the scales very deciduous, which when removed from 
 
THE SALMON. 283 
 
 along the sides, bring the lateral bars and the bright ver- 
 milion-coloured spots more distinctly into view ; the mouth 
 small ; the maxillary reaching back to beneath the middle 
 of the pupil ; teeth in the jaws small and slender ; those on 
 the vomer about twelve in number, extending the whole 
 way. (See Plate XXX.) The spawn deposited in the 
 months of November and December produces fry sooner or 
 later according to circumstances, as before mentioned, and 
 in May following they will be found of various sizes, their 
 growth depending principally on the quantity and qua- 
 lity of food they receive. The spawn shed in February, 
 March, and April, does not appear to produce fry of suffi- 
 cient size to migrate the following May, but they remain 
 in the river all the summer, autumn, and winter, and 
 depart for the sea in about the first week of the May 
 following, with a size of from six to eight and a half inches 
 in length. (See Plate XXXII.) The bright silvery ap- 
 pearance which they assume in this month is caused by the 
 casting off their old dusky scales, and by having them re- 
 placed with a new clear set, which change is very apparent 
 in the second or third week of April, when specimens may 
 be obtained of every intermediate stage ; the same change 
 takes place in the fry of all the migratory trout. This fact, 
 which is well known to many practical fishermen, seems to 
 have escaped the notice of naturalists generally. After the 
 fry or smolts reach the sea, we lose sight of them for two 
 months or ten weeks, and can only infer their growth from 
 the fact that, after the lapse of that period, we find them 
 again returning to the rivers with a weight of from two and 
 a half to four pounds. They are then known under the 
 name of the grilse or salmon-peal. The body is now long, 
 narrow, and elegantly shaped ; the head small ; the nose 
 sharp ; the gill-covers rounded ; the teeth sharp and 
 slender in both jaws, four teeth usually on the tongue, 
 
284 FISHES OF THE FI&TH OF FORTH. 
 
 and from two to five on the anterior part of the vomer ; 
 the colour of the head is of a greenish-blue ; the cheeks, 
 gilL covers, and the whole of the body below the lateral 
 line, of a fine silvery-white ; the back, as far as a little 
 above that line, dusky with metallic blue reflections ; the 
 pectoral, dorsal, and caudal fins, black ; ventral and anal 
 white; the caudal acutely forked. After they have re- 
 mained a short period in fresh water, they lose their silvery 
 lustre, and the ventral and anal fins assume a dusky ap- 
 pearance. During the ensuing winter the most of them 
 spawn, after which they return to the sea, and are taken in 
 the following year from ten to fifteen pounds weight, when 
 they receive the name of salmon. 
 
 It is the opinion entertained by all naturalists who have 
 hitherto written on this subject, that the fry of the salmon 
 grow to the length of seven inches or more, in less than two 
 months, and that all of them emigrate to the sea the same 
 spring in which they are excluded from the ova ; but this 
 theory, I have little doubt, would no longer be found ten- 
 able, were naturalists to direct their attention to the natu- 
 ral growth of these animals, and to examine the young at 
 different periods and stages of growth for themselves, since 
 I have repeatedly ascertained, from personal observation, that 
 a certain number of salmon fry (probably of a late brood) 
 remain in the rivers during the autumn months in com- 
 pany with their congeners, and being at that period of 
 the year very similar in their external appearance to the 
 fry of the Bull-Trout, the Salmon-Trout, and Parr, have 
 given rise to such divided opinions as to what these small 
 fish really are, some persons supposing them to. be all 
 Parrs, while others again announce them as being the young 
 of the Salmon. 
 
 Mr Shaw (who has performed some interesting expe- 
 riments on the ova of the Salmon), by keeping salmon 
 
THE SALMON. 285 
 
 fry in small artificial ponds, and observing their growth, 
 is led to surmise that none of the salmon fry leave the 
 river in which they are hatched until they have acquir- 
 ed the age of two years, and during the whole of that pe- 
 riod he believes their growth to be not more than six inches 
 in length, or three inches for the first twelve months.* Un- 
 der this head, I may here remark that allanimals while placed 
 under confinement, and deprived of their natural food, are 
 found to make but little progress in their growth ; in proof 
 of which, it is recorded in the second volume of Mr Yar- 
 relPs British Fishes, that a trout about a pound weight had 
 lived for twenty-eight years in a well at Dumbarton Castle, 
 and had never increased in size from the time of its being 
 put in. The kind of food exerts a material influence on 
 the growth of fishes, as mentioned by Mr Stodart in his in- 
 teresting work on the Art of Angling. " Trout were placed 
 in three separate tanks, one of which was supplied daily 
 with worms, another with live minnows, and the third with 
 those small dark coloured water-flies which are to be found 
 moving about on the surface under banks and sheltered 
 places. The trout fed with worms grew slowly, and had a 
 lean appearance ; those nourished on minnows, which, it 
 was observed, they darted at with great voracity, became 
 much larger ; while such as were fattened upon flies only, 
 attained in a short time prodigious dimensions, weighing 
 twice as much as both the others together, although the 
 quantity of food swallowed was in nowise so great. 1 ' The 
 natural and most nutritious food of the salmon fry during 
 the months of March, April, and May, is, there is no doubt, 
 flies and the larva of insects, which, in small and recent ar- 
 tificial ponds, are comparatively scarce. 
 
 Edin. Phil. Jour, for 1836 and 1838. 
 
286 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 The Salmon, although a common fish in the Firth of 
 Forth, is not accounted plentiful when compared with the 
 number that are occasionally taken in the Tweed and in 
 other fishing districts of the north. In some seasons they 
 make their appearance in the Forth in much greater plenty 
 than at others ; and when that is the case, it is said, there 
 is generally a diminished proportion observed in the rivers 
 of the south. It seems certain that Salmon rove to a con- 
 siderable distance when at sea, and that they do not uni- 
 versally return to the same stream in which they were ex- 
 cluded from the ova, since numbers are taken in the Firth 
 of Forth which had been previously marked when fry in 
 the Tweed ; and it is probable that, on certain occasions, 
 depending perhaps on the disturbed state of the ocean, they 
 enter the first stream they meet with which seems best to 
 suit their purpose. The Firth of Forth is bordered on both 
 sides with stake-nets, besides other nets and snares of diffe- 
 rent descriptions used for the purpose of capturing salmon. 
 July is the principal month for the run of salmon, when it 
 is not an uncommon occurrence for some of the nets to take 
 from fifty to eighty at each tide successively for a fortnight. 
 Pennant states that a boat-load of Salmon, and sometimes 
 nearly double that quantity, are often taken in the Tweed 
 in a tide, and that some years before he wrote, above seven 
 hundred were taken at one haul of a net. 
 
 The Edinburgh market is supplied with Salmon from 
 the Firth of Forth until the early part of August, after 
 which they are sent from the Tweed, and, in some seasons, 
 sold at the rate of sixpence a pound. 
 
 Few persons have been able to agree as to the precise 
 food of the Salmon, for on opening the stomach seldom any 
 thing but thick mucus is observed to line it. Dr Knox states, 
 that the food of the salmon, while in the sea, consists solely 
 
THE SALMON. 287 
 
 of the ova of various kinds Echinodermata and some of the 
 Crustacea* But, if we consider the strength of the jaws, 
 the temporal and masseter muscles, and examine the ar- 
 rangement and size of the teeth, we should be inclined to 
 infer that it exists on something more solid than the food 
 which Dr Knox supposes ; besides, the ova of the Echino- 
 dermata and Crustacea are shed at a period when most of 
 the Salmon have entered the rivers. Mr Yarrell, on open- 
 ing the stomach of a Salmon, found the remains of a Sand- 
 lance. Faber, in his Natural History of the Fishes of Ice- 
 land, remarks, that the common salmon feeds on small fish 
 and various small marine animals. Dr Fleming says their 
 favourite food is the Sand-eel. Sir William Jardine says, 
 in the north of Sutherland, they are often taken by a hook 
 baited with Sand-eels. At North Queensferry, the Salmon 
 is said to have been occasionally taken with a fly. In the 
 county of Devon, as well as in Loch Lomond in the north, 
 I have taken grilse with the minnow, and the common earth- 
 worm is a deadly bait for the clean salmon. On dissecting 
 the alimentary canal of several dozen of salmon that were 
 taken in salt water, I seldom failed in discovering the re- 
 mains of some kind of food in the lower intestine, the sto- 
 mach itself being almost invariably empty. In one out of 
 five I found the remains of Crustacea and bones, apparent- 
 ly of the Sand-eel and other small fish. I have repeatedly 
 found the remains of worms and aquatic insects in the in- 
 testines of these salmon that were taken in rivers and lakes ; 
 but, in those fish which were far advanced in roe, both sto- 
 mach and intestine were observed to be almost invariably 
 empty. 
 
 It is mentioned by Mr Yarrell, on the authority of Sir 
 
 * Trans. Royal Soc. Edin. 
 
288 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 William Jardine, that an angler, whilst fishing in the Tweed, 
 hooked a Salmon that carried away his tackle ; after put- 
 ting on a new set, baited as before with a worm, in ten mi- 
 nutes after he hooked and killed the same fish with the for* 
 mer hook in its mouth. This, adds Mr Yarrell, will either 
 prove extreme voracity, or little sensibility in the parts of 
 the mouth. 
 
 Salmon, as food, are in the best season from March till 
 August, after which the generality of them become pale in 
 the flesh, soft, and very unwholesome. 
 
 There is occasionally taken in the Firth of Forth, a small 
 species of Salmon, or rather a variety, which is said to oc- 
 cur more frequently in some of the large rivers further 
 north, where it is commonly known by the name of Nor- 
 way Salmon. Plate XXXII. Fig. 2. It is seldom found to 
 exceed the length of two feet, and much resembles the com* 
 mon Salmon in miniature. The characters agree in every re- 
 spect with those I have given of Salmo solar, excepting that 
 it is of much smaller size ; the dorsal fin rather nearer the head 
 than to the base of the tail; the pectorals and ventrals 
 rounded at the end ; the fifth, sixth, and seventh rays being 
 longer in proportion ; the pectoral, dorsal, and caudal fins, 
 dark grey, instead of dusky black; twenty scales in an 
 oblique row between the dorsal fin and the lateral line, and 
 the flesh is not so red or so well flavoured as that of the 
 Salmo solar. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 13 ; P. 14 ; V. 9 ; A. 10 ; C. 20.* 
 
 SALMO EEiox.t THE BULL-TROUT. 
 
 Specific Characters. Lower end of the pectorals dusky; membranes 
 between the rays of the ventral fins, plain ; middle ray of the caudal 
 
 Sir William Jardine and Dr Johnston have also observed the same va- 
 riety of Salmon in the Tweed, 
 f- Salmo eriox of Yarrell and Jenyns ; descriptions of other authors be- 
 
THE BULL-TROUT. 289 
 
 fin more than half the length of the longest ray in the same fin j vo- 
 merine teeth confined to the anterior extremity. (Plate XXXTL 
 Fig. 3.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen two feet six inches in length. 
 Dorsal line straighter and higher over the shoulders than in a salmon 
 Of equal size ; head larger, of a more clumsy make, and the caudal 
 extremity of the body thicker ; snout rather blunt ; jaws nearly equal ; 
 head one-fifth of the whole length, caudal fin included. In male 
 specimens the head is much longer, especially in the spawning sea- 
 son ; the elongation takes place in front of the nostrils, and not in 
 the gill-covers. Mr Yarrell's figure of the Bull-Trout was taken from 
 a male individual, in which the length of the head, compared to that 
 of the body only, is as one to four. Posterior margin of the opercu- 
 lum but slightly rounded, that of the suboperculum rather more so 
 at its inferior part ; preoperculum sinuous, and rather curved at its 
 posterior border ; the line of union between the subopercle and pre- 
 opercle is not so oblique as in the salmon. Colour of the back dark 
 grey ; sides lighter ; belly white ; dorsal and caudal fins light grey ; 
 pectorals dusky grey at the lower half ; ventrals and anal dull white ; 
 spots above the lateral line numerous, of various forms, extending to 
 the base of the tail, those below the line about thirty, rather smaller, 
 and not extending to the anal fin ; no spots over the shoulders or on 
 the dorsal line ; opercle with three round spots, and one on the pre- 
 opercle. During the spawning season the male fish assumes a red- 
 dish-brown appearance, and if it remains any length of time in fresh 
 water the ventral and anal fins become dusky, and the whole fish of 
 a darker colour. First dorsal fin situated half-way between the point 
 of the snout and the base of the middle caudal rays ; the first ray 
 short and simple, not half the length of the second, which is also 
 simple, the rest of the rays branched, the third the longest, as long as 
 the base of the fin, the last two of equal length, exactly half the length 
 of the fourth ; second dorsal fin adipose, without rays, situated in a 
 vertical line over the base of the last anal ray ; caudal fin even at the 
 end, the middle ray considerably more than half as long as the long- 
 est ray in the same fin ; the sixth ray of the anal fin equalling the 
 length of the base of that fin, the first two rays simple, the rest branch- 
 ed, the third the longest, the last the shortest, about half the length of 
 the fifth ; ventral fins arising in a vertical line under the last ray but 
 six of the dorsal ; the first ray simple, the rest branched, the second 
 
 ing too short to form any idea as to what species or variety they allude . 
 In the Firth of Forth the young of this fish is named Sea Trout ; at Kelso* 
 far up the Tweed, it is called Whitling, which is not the Whitling at Ber- 
 wick. 
 
 VOL. VII. T 
 
290 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 and third of equal length, as long as the third dorsal ray, the last the 
 shortest, considerably more than half the length of the longest ray ; 
 pectorals much longer than the base of the dorsal fin, and of the 
 same length as the long caudal ray j the first ray simple, the rest 
 branched, the second and third the longest, the last the shortest, about 
 half the length of the seventh ray. Eye placed half-way between 
 the point of the snout, and the upper corner of the gill-cover ; mouth 
 large ; jaws nearly equal ; maxillaries extending back as far as in a 
 line with the posterior margin of the orbit. Teeth stout and sharp 
 in both jaws, as well as on the tongue, vomer, and palatines ; those 
 on the vomer four in number, confined to the most anterior part ; 
 those on the tongue four, never exceeding eight. The vomerine teeth 
 in young fish less than nine inches in length, are from nine to twelve 
 in number, extending far back (See Plate XXX), and which disap- 
 pear as the fish increases in age. Scales large and strong, twenty- 
 two in an oblique row backward, between the base of the middle 
 ray of the dorsal fin and the lateral line ; lateral line straight, pass- 
 ing down the middle of the side to the base of the tail ; csecal ap- 
 pendages fifty-four ; flesh pale yellow. Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 10 j P. 13 ; V. 8 ; A. 10 ; C. 19. 
 
 This migratory species of trout, when fully grown, leaves 
 the sea about the end of July to enter the fresh-water 
 streams, where it deposits its spawn in the months of Oc- 
 tober, November, and December, and after this law of Na- 
 ture is fulfilled, it, like the salmon, returns again to the 
 sea. During the spawning season, the males become of a 
 brownish-red colour on the back, the spots shew themselves 
 more vividly, and the vertical elongation of the lower jaw 
 becomes developed similar to that observed in the male sal- 
 mon at the same period, but not to such an extent. The 
 weight that this fish attains to, is from twenty to five-and- 
 twenty pounds, and sometimes more, as a fine example was 
 taken a few years since in the Newby stake-net in the Sol- 
 way Firth, that exceeded the weight of twenty-eight pounds. 
 It was sent to the Carlisle market, where it received an in- 
 different sale, as the flesh when cut exhibited a coarse chalk- 
 white appearance ; the red fleshed trout, as food, receiving 
 
THE BULL TROUT. 291 
 
 at all times the preference. Of the Bull Trout of Yarrell 
 there appear to be numerous varieties, differing, however, 
 not sufficiently from one another to be considered by ichthyo- 
 logists as deserving to rank as distinct species. The Bull- 
 Trout, when about nine inches in length, has the caudal fin 
 acutely forked ; the middle rays elongating with the growth 
 of the fish, and the fin ultimately becoming even at the end. 
 When the fish reaches the length of twenty inches, the mid- 
 dle ray of the tail is more than half the length of the long- 
 est ray of the same fin, whereas the same ray in the salmon 
 is never half as long as the longest ray of that fin at any 
 age, a character that may be strictly depended on. Mr 
 Yarrell places much dependence, as a character, on the 
 formation of the suboperculum, and its line of union with 
 the operculum compared" to the axis of the body of the fish. 
 In some examples I have recognised this character, but in 
 others I have found it to vary too much to form a uniform 
 mark of distinction. In the Firth of Forth I have met 
 with the following varieties of Salmo Eriox : 
 
 (Plate XXXII. Fig. 4. Salmon-spotted Bull-Trout.} Length 
 twenty-seven inches ; female ; four teeth on the anterior part of the 
 vomer ; basal margin of the operculum very oblique ; tail even at the 
 end, six spots below the lateral line, twenty-eight above it ; flesh 
 red ; cseca fifty-four. Salmon-Trout of the Firth of Forth, Sol way 
 Firth, and at Berwick-upon-Tweed ; in the latter locality it is fre- 
 quently named Whitling. 
 
 (Plate XXXIII. mg.5. Few-spotted Bull-Trout. Length twenty- 
 five inches ; female ; two teeth on the anterior part of the vomer ; 
 suboperculum very narrow ; basal margin of the operculum oblique, 
 in a line with the summit of the first dorsal ray; preoperculum 
 sinuous ; tail slightly forked ; no spots below the lateral line, and 
 only four obscure ones above it; flesh deep red, cseca fifty-five. 
 Salmon-Trout of the Firth of Forth, Sol way Firth, and Tweed, 
 rather rare. 
 
 (Plate XXXIII. Fig. Q. Thiclcly-spotted Bull- Trout. Length 
 twenty-four inches ; female ; one tooth on the vomer; suboperculum 
 narrow, produced at its upper and posterior margin ; preoperculum 
 
292 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 slightly sinuous ; basal margin of the operculum oblique, in a line 
 with the base of the first dorsal ray ; tail even at the end ; spots 
 large, irregular, many of a square form ; forty-two below the lateral 
 line, about one hundred and eighty above it ; flesh pale yellow ; 
 -cseca forty-eight. Bull-Trout of the Firth of Forth, Sol way Firth, 
 and Tweed, not common. 
 
 (Plate XXXIII. Fig. 7. Large-headed Butt-Trout.) Length 
 twenty-six inches ; male ; three teeth on the anterior part of the 
 vomer ; tail even at the end ; suboperculum large ; basal margin of 
 the operculum very oblique ; preoperculum sinuous ; spots large, 
 many of a square form, eighteen below the lateral line, and ninety 
 above it ; flesh pale yellow; cseca fifty. Butt-Trout of the Firth of 
 Forth, Solway Firth, and Tweed, frequent. 
 
 (Plate XXXIII. Fig. 8. Curved-spotted Butt- Trout.) Length 
 twenty-seven inches ; female ; three teeth on the anterior part of the 
 Vomer ; tail even at the end ; operculum and suboperculum narrow ; 
 preoperculum slightly sinuous ; basal margin of the opereulum very 
 oblique ; flesh deep salmon colour, rich, and well flavoured. Rare 
 in the Firth of Forth, scarcely known in the Solway Firth, but com- 
 mon in the Tweed at Berwick, where it is named Whitling, and is 
 seldom found to ascend more than five miles up the river; beyond 
 that the fishermen call the young of the Bull-Trout, Whitling, for 
 want of knowing the true Whitling. It is supposed that these fish 
 deposit their spawn not far from brackish water, and that the 
 young enter the sea a week or more before their congeners. One of 
 two feet in length is of a very unusual size, the average length being 
 about eighteen inches. A specimen now before me of seventeen 
 inches in length, presents the following description. Shape much re- 
 sembling the salmon ; greatest depth a little in front of the dorsal 
 fin ; head one-fifth the whole length, caudal fin not included. Co- 
 lour of the back, dark glossy blue ; sides lighter ; belly silvery- white ; 
 dorsal and caudal fins dark ; ventrals and anal white ; pectorals at 
 their free ends nearly black, the base smoky blue ; spots of the form 
 of an Italic 00 ; ten below the lateral line and about seventy above 
 it. Basal margin of the operculum oblique; preoperculum rather 
 sinuous ; three teeth in front of the vomer, four on the tongue, thirty 
 on the upper jaw, eighteen on the lower, and nine on each of the 
 palatines. First dorsal fin placed half-way between the point of the 
 snout and the base of the tail ; adipose fin nearer the end of the tail 
 than to the first dorsal ; caudal fin sinuous, the middle ray rather 
 more than half the length of the longest ray in the same fin. Ven- 
 trals placed in a vertical line under the last ray but four of the first 
 dorsal. Pectorals rather more than the length of the base of the 
 dorsal. Scales t wentv-t wo in an oblique row between the base of the 
 
THE BULL TROUT. 293 
 
 middle dorsal ray and lateral line; caeca fifty-four. Number of 
 fin rays 1st D. 12 ; P. 12 ; V. 9 ; A. 10 ; C. 18. 
 
 (Plate XXXIII.* Salmon Bull-Trout.} Length eighteen inches ; 
 female; three teeth on the anterior part of vomer; operculum rounded; 
 suboperculurn rather large, its line of union with the operculum, 
 oblique ; back bluish-black ; pectorals dusky ; caudal dark at the 
 margin ; spots having the form of X ; flesh deep red ; cseca fifty-four. 
 Number of fin rays D. 11 ; P. 13 ; V. 9 ; A. 10 ; C. 20. Salmon- 
 Trout of Firth of Forth, Solway Firth, and Tweed, frequent ; at 
 Berwick it is occasionally named Whitling. 
 
 (Plate XXXIV. Fig. 9. Crescent-tailed Bull-Trout.} Length 
 twenty-two inches ; female ; one tooth in front of the vomer ; tail 
 lunate ; gill-cover rounded ; suboperculum narrow ; the basal margin 
 of the operculum very oblique and much curved ; preoperculum 
 slightly sinuous ; spots large and distinct, of various forms, thirty- 
 seven below the line, and about eighty above it ; third ray of the 
 dorsal fin as long as the base of that fin ; all the fins as long in pro- 
 portion ; flesh red ; twenty-six scales in an oblique row between the 
 base of the middle ray of the dorsal fin and lateral line ; cseca fifty, 
 Bull-Trout of the Firth of Forth rare. 
 
 (Plate XXXIV. Fig. 10. Norway Bull- Trout.} Length twenty- 
 two inches ; female ; body much elongated ; five teeth in front of the 
 vomer ; caudal fin slightly forked ; operculum and suboperculum 
 very large, slightly produced behind ; basal margin of the operculum 
 rather oblique, in a line with the middle of the dorsal fin ; preoper- 
 culum rounded, not sinuous ; spots large and round ; seven below 
 the line, and twenty-two above it ; flesh yellow ; cseca fifty-two. 
 Norway-Trout of the Firth of Forth, very rare. 
 
 SALMO TRUTTA.* SALMON-TROUT. 
 
 Specific Characters. Vomerine teeth not confined to the anterior 
 extremity, but extending far back ; sides with X-shaped spots ; tail 
 more or less forked. (See Plate XXXIV. Fig. 11.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen twenty-five inches in length. 
 Form resembling more the salmon than that of the bull-trout ; nose 
 rather pointed ; head one-sixth of the whole length ; caudal fin in- 
 cluded ; greatest depth a little in front of the first dorsal. Colour of 
 the back bluish-black ; sides lighter, of a fine glossy blue ; belly, anal, 
 and ventral fins white ; head dark greenish-blue ; cheeks and gill- 
 covers light steel-blue ; spots on the sides numerous, having the form 
 of the letter X ; about a hundred below the line, and about one hun- 
 dred and twenty above it ; nine spots on the gill-cover, of a rounded 
 
 * Salmo trutta, Yarr., Jen. 
 
294 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 form ; dorsal and caudal dusky,, as well as the inner surface of the 
 pectorals. First dorsal fin placed half-way between the point of the 
 nose and the base of the long caudal ray ; the first and second rays 
 simple, the rest branched ; the third the longest, as long as the base 
 of the fin ; the last ray exactly one-half the length of the fifth ; adipose 
 fin situated in a vertical line over the base of the last anal ray, and 
 mid- way between the last dorsal ray and the tip of the tail. Caudal 
 fin slightly forked, the middle ray a very little more than half the 
 length of the longest ray in the same fin. The third ray of the anal 
 fin the longest, equalling the length of the same ray in the first 
 dorsal fin ; the last ray one-half the length of the fifth ; the sixth 
 as long as the base of the fin. Origin of the ventrals in a vertical line 
 with the last ray but six of the first dorsal ; the second ray the long- 
 est, equalling the length of the base of the dorsal. Pectorals point- 
 ed, the second and third rays the longest, nearly equalling the length 
 of the long caudal ray ; the last ray one-half the length of the eighth. 
 Gill-cover slightly produced behind ; suboperculum rather narrow ; 
 basal margin of the operculum oblique, in a line with the base of the 
 first ray of the dorsal ; preoperculum slightly sinuous. Jaws nearly 
 equal ; the end of the maxillary in a vertical line with the posterior 
 margin of the orbit. Teeth stout and sharp ; forty-four in the upper 
 jaw, twenty-four in the lower, twelve on each palatine, and eight on 
 the vomer. Scales thin, twenty-two in an oblique row between the 
 base of the middle dorsal ray, and the lateral line ; flesh red ; caeca 
 fifty-one. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 12 ; P. 13 ; V. 10 ; A. 10 ; C. 19. 
 
 The migratory species of trout (not including the sal- 
 mon), when young, as far as I have been able to ascertain, 
 cannot be distinguished with certainty one from another; 
 therefore, in speaking of their habits, they must necessarily 
 be described together. The spawn, which is shed in Octo- 
 ber, November, and December, begins to vivify in March 
 and April, or sometimes sooner, depending greatly on the 
 mildness of the spring, and the period in which the eggs 
 are deposited. In June, we observe the young sporting 
 about in the shallows, from two to three inches in length. 
 In August, September, and October, they are taken by an- 
 glers, from four to five inches long, under the name of hep- 
 
THE SALMON-TROUT. 
 
 pers or parrs.* At this age they assume a beautiful ap- 
 pearance ; the back and sides, as far as the lateral line, are 
 of a dusky brown colour, marked with a number of small 
 dark spots ; the lateral line crossed with from eight to nine, 
 and sometimes ten, transverse bluish bands, with an orange- 
 coloured spot placed between each ; the head brownish- 
 green ; the gill-covers with one or two large dark spots 
 tinged with red ; belly white ; ventrals and anal fins inclin- 
 ing to yellow, as well as the pectorals which are rather 
 darker ; dorsal fin slightly spotted, with the summit of the 
 anterior part dusky; vomerine teeth about twelve in num- 
 ber, extending far back ; caudal fin deeply forked. In De- 
 cember, these fish are seen somewhat larger, and about the 
 end of May or the early part of June following, the greater 
 part make their first migration to the sea, when they are 
 observed, on an average, from five and a half to eight inches 
 in length,, assuming a silvery appearance, with their anal and 
 ventral fins white, and the pectorals dusky at their tips. (See 
 Plate XXXI.) Those fry which remain in the river after 
 the month of June, soon become in excellent condition. 
 
 After they have remained in the sea for about two months, 
 we find them, on their return to the rivers, measuring from 
 ten to twelve inches in length, when the} r are known under 
 the name of Htrlmgs or Whitlings (Salmo albus of Dr 
 Fleming). At this period they assume a different aspect ; 
 the back becomes of a dusky blue ; the sides silvery, mark- 
 ed with a few obscure dark spots, principally in the region 
 of the pectorals. Some examples are without spots, pre- 
 senting at the same time a fine silvery appearance, from 
 
 * These fish are not the Parrs (S. salmulus) of ichthyologists, although 
 closely resembling them. Dr Fleming, however, considers them identical ; 
 probably owing to his never having had an opportunity of examining an 
 adult specimen of S. salmulus. 
 
296 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 which circumstance they seem to have received the name of 
 Whitling. The lateral bands and orange-coloured spots 
 are no longer visible ; the gill-cover spot is almost oblite- 
 rated ; the tail still remains deeply forked ; the pectorals 
 become dusky, and in some specimens assume a yellow ap- 
 pearance, when they are named orange fcm. The vomerine 
 teeth are from nine to twelve iii number, and in about one 
 example out of twenty, only three of these teeth are percepti- 
 ble, and then confined to the most anterior part (probably the 
 young of some of the varieties of Eriox); the head is small; 
 the nose sharp ; the back, over the shoulders, thick ; and the 
 form of the body elegantly shaped. After they enter the 
 rivers, and have remained there a short time, they lose their 
 silvery appearance, the spots become more apparent, the ven- 
 tral and anal fins become dusky ; the flesh, which previously 
 had a reddish tinge and a defecate flavour, now becomes 
 white and insipid, and the whole fish soon assumes a lank 
 and unwholesome appearance. In this condition, on their 
 return again to the sea, in the months of January and Feb- 
 ruary, numbers are taken in the Forth above Stirling, as well 
 as in the Tay, and sent to the Edinburgh market, where they 
 are named Lammasmens, and are sold at the rate of about 
 sevenpence per pound. When they have recruited them- 
 selves by a short absence at sea, and regained their former 
 symmetry and silvery hue, they visit us again in June on 
 their return to the rivers as before, with a length, on an 
 average, of eighteen inches. They now receive the provin- 
 cial names of Sea^Trout, Salmon- Trout, White-Trout, and 
 Whitlings, according to their form, or their external mark- 
 ings. The caudal fin at this period becomes less forked, 
 the middle rays more lengthened in proportion, and in 
 some examples nearly even at the end. The number of 
 vomerine teeth at this age are also uncertain, varying from 
 
THE SALMON-TROUT. 297 
 
 three to nine ; nor is it possible to distinguish S. trutta 
 by the teeth only, from some of the varieties of Eriox^ at 
 least not before the fish has reached the length of twenty 
 inches, when it will be found that S. trutta has retained 
 from seven to nine of these teeth, and that S. eriooc and va- 
 rieties have lost all except a few, and those confined to the 
 most anterior extremity. They have now arrived at that 
 age to reproduce their species in the months before men- 
 tioned, although it is said by fishermen that they spawn 
 on their first visit to the rivers, but I have not as yet been 
 able to detect in them roe of sufficient size to lead me to 
 that conjecture. 
 
 Independent of the statements of naturalists of high au- 
 thority, who assert that the Herling (Salmo albus of Dr 
 Fleming) is a distinct species, I cannot but agree with Mr 
 Yarrell and Mr Jenyns, in supposing it as nothing more 
 than the young of some of the migratory trout. With a 
 view of ascertaining this fact, I remained several weeks on 
 the banks of the Sol way Firth, where I had an opportunity 
 of inspecting several hundred specimens as soon as they 
 were taken from the nets. After carefully dissecting two 
 hundred specimens, and finding them to differ exceedingly 
 from one another in their anatomical structure, in the num- 
 ber of scales, in the colour of the flesh, and in the form and 
 arrangement of the lateral spots, I came to the conclusion 
 that they were not a distinct species, but the young of dif- 
 ferent species or varieties of trout, which, if allowed to re- 
 main uncaught, would ultimately increase to six, seven, or 
 even eight pounds in weight. 
 
208 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 SALMO SALMULUS.* THE PARK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Teeth extending the whole length of the vo- 
 mer ; middle ray of the caudal fin not half the length of the longest 
 ray of the same fin ; fifth ray of the pectorals the longest. (See 
 Plate XXX. 
 
 Description. From a specimen eight inches in length. Head 
 more than one-fifth of the whole length, caudal included; depth be- 
 tween the dorsal and ventrals, less than the length of the head ; gill- 
 covers slightly produced at the posterior margin ; basal line of union 
 of the operculum oblique; preoperculum rounded at its inferior 
 border. Jaws nearly equal; posterior extremity of the maxillary 
 bone in a line under the middle of the pupil. Colour of the back 
 and sides olive-brown,, marked by a number of round dark spots ; 
 pectoral, dorsal,'and caudal fins dusky ; ventrals and anal rather lighter ; 
 operculum with a large dark spot placed in the centre, and another 
 at the posterior inferior angle ; sides with eight or nine broad trans- 
 verse bands, with an orange-coloured spot between each. First 
 dorsal fin placed half-way between the point of the upper jaw, and 
 a little beyond the base of the centre caudal ray ; the first and se- 
 cond rays simple, the remainder branched, the fourth the longest, 
 rather more than equalling the base of the fin ; the last ray about 
 one-half the length of the fifth ; adipose fin situated in a line over 
 the base of the last ray of the anal fin, and half-way between the 
 dorsal, and the centre of the middle caudal ray. Caudal fin deeply 
 forked, the middle ray not half the length of the longest ray in the 
 same fin ; the fourth ray of the anal fin the longest, equalling the 
 length of the sixth ray in the dorsal fin ; the last ray one-half the 
 length of the fifth, the seventh ray as long as the base of the fin. 
 Origin of the ventral fins in a vertical -line under the last ray but six 
 of the dorsal, the fourth ray the longest, more than equalling the 
 base of the dorsal fin. Pectorals rounded at the end, the fifth ray the 
 longest, more than equalling the longest ray of the caudal fin, and 
 as long as the space between the base of the ventral fin and the ori- 
 gin of the first ray of the anal. Teeth small and sharp, forty-eight 
 in the upper jaw ; and twenty in the lower ; twelve on each pala- 
 tine ; six on the tongue, and twelve on the vomer ; scales small and 
 adherent : flesh white. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 12; P. 13; V. 8; A. 10; C. 19; caeca 42, but liable to 
 great variation in their number. 
 
 * Salmo salmulus, Penn., Jen., Yarr., Jar. The largest specimen I have 
 met with, measures nine inches and a quarter in length. It was taken in 
 the North Esk, Forfarshire, September 1835, by James Wilson, Esq. 
 
THE PARR. 299 
 
 If we compare a young Salmon of eight inches in length 
 with a Parr of equal size, both taken from the same river 
 in the month of May, we shall find them to differ in the 
 following respects. (See Plate XXX.) The form of the 
 Salmon is long and narrow, the snout pointed, and the cau- 
 dal fin acutely forked ; the body of the Parr is thick and 
 clumsy, the snout broad and blunt, and the caudal fin 
 much less forked. The operculum of the Salmon is beau- 
 tifully rounded at its posterior margin, with the basal line 
 of union with the suboperculum much curved ; in the Parr 
 this part is rather produced, with the line of union nearly 
 straight. In the Salmon the maxillary is short and nar- 
 row ; in the Parr it is longer and broader, particularly at 
 the posterior free extremity. The teeth of the Salmon are 
 long and fine, when recent, easily bent ; those of the Parr 
 are shorter and stouter, and resist much greater pressure. 
 In the Salmon the pectoral fin is short, not quite one-seventh 
 part the length of the whole fish, with the fourth ray the 
 longest ; the same fin in the Parr is very long, not quite 
 one-sixth part the length of the whole fish, with the fifth 
 ray the longest, giving a form to the fin totally different 
 from that of the Salmon. (See Plate XXXIV.) The pec- 
 toral, dorsal, and caudal fins in the Salmon are black ; 
 those fins in the parr are dusky. The flesh of the Salmon 
 is delicate and pinkish, the bones rather soft, and the coats 
 of the stomach thin and tender ; the flesh of the Parr is 
 white and firm, the bones stout and hard, and the coats of 
 the stomach and intestines thick and tough. 
 
 It is generally supposed that those small fish from four 
 to five inches in length, which are found so plentiful in 
 many rivers during the autumn months, and which are 
 marked on the sides with from ten to eleven transverse 
 dusky bands, and a black spot on each gill-cover, are either 
 all parrs or the young of the salmon. But from a minute 
 
300 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 examination of several hundred of these fish taken in vari- 
 ous rivers in England and Scotland, I am induced to con* 
 sider them as not all of one species, but the young of vari- 
 ous species or varieties of migratory trout, in company with 
 the young of the salmon, with the Salmo salmulus or parr, 
 and with different varieties of the common fresh-water 
 trout ; all of which have received the names of Heppers, 
 Brandlings, Samlets, Fingerlings, Gravellings, Laspings, 
 Skirlings, and Sparlings. 
 
 The parr is said to be an abundant species in all the clear 
 running streams in England, Wales, and the north of Scot- 
 land ; but in the last-named country it begins to decrease, 
 so as to become comparatively rare towards the north. Sir 
 William Jardine, whose authority stands high as a natu- 
 ralist, and who is known to have devoted much attention 
 to the natural history of the fresh-water fishes, states-" that 
 the difference of opinion among ichthyologists, or rather 
 the difficulty which they appear to have in forming one, 
 whether this fish is distinct, or only the young of some 
 others, has rendered the solution of it interesting. The 
 greatest uncertainty, however, has latterly resolved itself into 
 whether the parr was distinct, or a variety, or young, of the 
 trout, S. Jario ; with the migratory salmon it has no con- 
 nection whatever." 
 
 " Among the British Salmonidce, there'is no fish whose 
 habits are so regular, or the colours and markings so con- 
 stant. It frequents the clearest streams, delighting in the 
 shallower fords or heads of the streams, having a fine gra- 
 velly bottom, and hanging there in shoals, in constant acti- 
 vity, apparently day and night. It takes any bait at any 
 time with the greatest freedom ; and hundreds may be 
 taken when no trout, either large or small, will rise, 
 though abundant among them. That part of its history 
 
THE PARR. 301 
 
 only which is yet unknown is the breeding. Males are 
 found so far advanced as to have the milt flow on being 
 handled ; but at that time, and indeed all those females 
 which I have examined, had the roe in a backward state : 
 and they have not been discovered spawning in any of the 
 shallow streams or lesser rivulets, like the trout. 
 
 " In the markings they are so distinct as to be at once 
 separated from the trout by any observer. The row of 
 blue marks which is also found in the young trout, and in 
 the young of several Salmomdce, in the parr are narrower 
 and more lengthened. The general spotting seldom ex- 
 tends below the lateral line, and two dark spots on the gill- 
 cover are a very constant mark. On a still closer compari- 
 son between the young trout and parr of similar size, the 
 following distinctions present themselves : The parr is al- 
 together more delicately formed ; the nose is blunter ; the 
 tail more forked, but the chief external distinction is in the 
 immense comparative power of the pectoral fin ; it is larger, 
 much more muscular, and nearly one-third broader ; and 
 we at once see the necessity for this great power, when we 
 consider that they serve to assist in almost constantly sus- 
 pending this little fish in the most rapid streams. Scales of 
 the parr, taken from the lateral line below the dorsal fin, 
 were altogether larger, the length greater by nearly one- 
 third, the furrowing more delicate, and the form of the ca- 
 nal not so apparent, or so strongly marked, towards the ba- 
 sal end of the scale. The greater delicacy of the bones of 
 the parr is still kept up very distinctly. The operculum 
 forming the posterior edge of the gill-cover is much more 
 rounded than in the trout, approaching in this respect to 
 ~the salmon ; in the trout the lower part is decidedly angu- 
 lar. The interoperculum in the parr is longer and nar- 
 rower. The maxillary bone is broader at the posterior cor- 
 
302 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 ner, but much shorter in the parr ; the vomer is much 
 weaker ; the bones or rays of the gill-covers are longer and 
 much narrower than those of the trout. The teeth of the 
 parr are smaller ; the bone of the tongue longer, weaker, 
 and not so broad ; the under jaw much weaker, and the 
 distance between the two sides of the under jaw, in the 
 parr, about one- third less. These are the most conspicu- 
 ous distinctions, but every bone varies ; and not in one only, 
 but in many specimens which I have lately examined, the 
 distinctions were the same, and at once to be perceived. In 
 this state, therefore, I have no hesitation in considering the 
 parr not only distinct, but one of the best and most con- 
 stantly marked species we have, and that it ought to re- 
 main in our systems as the Salmo Salmulus of Ray. 11 * 
 
 " Dr Heysham, at different times and seasons opened 
 and examined three hundred and ninety-five parrs, or sim- 
 lets as they are called at Carlisle, and found one hundred 
 and ninety-nine males, and one hundred and ninety-six fe- 
 males ;" and J. C. Heysham, Esq. sent Mr Yarrell a speci- 
 men measuring seven inches in length, having both lobes of 
 roe in a forward state. 
 
 ' It is the opinion of Dr Heysham of Carlisle, that the 
 old samlets begin to deposit their spawn in December, and 
 continue spawning the whole of that month, and perhaps 
 some part of January. As this season of the year is not 
 favourable to angling, few or no observations are made du- 
 ring these months. As soon as they have spawned, they 
 retire, like the salmon, to the sea, where they remain till 
 the Autumn, when they again return to the rivers. The 
 spawn deposited by the old samlets in the sand, begins to 
 exclude the young or fry according to the temperature of 
 the season, either in April or May. The young samlets 
 
 * Sir William Jardine, Bart., Edin. New Phil Jour. Jan. 1835. 
 
THE PARR. 
 
 remain in the rivers where they were spawned during th<j 
 whole of the spring, summer, and autumn, and do not ac- 
 quire their full size till the autumn, about which time the 
 old ones return from the sea. Hence it is evident that, al- 
 though there are samlets of various sizes in the spring and 
 fore part of the summer, there will be no very large ones 
 till the autumn, when the young ones have nearly acquired 
 their full size, and the old ones have returned to associate 
 with their offspring. If the weather be mild and open in 
 January and February, samlets are taken when retiring to 
 the sea with empty bellies, and in a weak emaciated condi- 
 tion. In short, we see samlets of various sizes ; we see them 
 with milt and roe in various stages, and we see them per- 
 fectly empty ; all which circumstances clearly prove that 
 they are a distinct species."* 
 
 It has often been asserted, in corroboration of the parr 
 being the young of the salmon, that numbers are to be ta- 
 ken below the falls of the Clyde, but none above it. Last 
 summer I had an opportunity of examining several dozen 
 of these fishes, which were taken below the falls, in the 
 month of July, and not a parr (S. salmnlus ) was among 
 them ; all proved to be the young of the migratory trout, 
 with the exception of three which were the young of the 
 salmon. 
 
 Practical fishermen, from not being acquainted with the 
 characters by which the parr is distinguished from its con- 
 geners, have frequently confounded it with the young of 
 the salmon, the bull-trout, the salmon-trout, and the com- 
 mon fresh-water trout; all of which, during the autumn 
 months, very much resemble each other in their external 
 markings. 
 
 There is still great doubts as to the parr being a migra- 
 
 * Yarrell's British Fishes. 
 
304 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH, 
 
 tory species, since no instance has been recorded of its cap- 
 ture in the sea. Nor does it appear to me to be so com- 
 mon a fish as is generally considered. Its habits require 
 further investigation. 
 
 SALMO FARIO.* THE COMMON TRODT. 
 
 Specific Characters. Vomerine teeth extending the whole way ; 
 middle ray of the tail more than half the length of the longest ray in 
 the same fin ; body marked more or less with red spots. (See Plate 
 XXX.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen one foot in length. Head one-fifth 
 of the whole length, caudal fin included ; depth under the dorsal 
 less than the length of the head. Colour of the back dusky inclin- 
 ing to olive, sides lighter ; belly yellowish ; sides above the lateral 
 line marked with about fifty dark round spots ; below the line about 
 ten, surrounded by a pale circle ; lateral line with eight red spots, 
 which are more conspicuous on the caudal half of the body ; pecto- 
 rals yellowish, the remaining fins dusky ; dorsal spotted, with the 
 summits of the second, third, fourth, and fifth rays white, and an 
 oblique black band beneath ; the first ray of the anal fin white, with 
 the four following ones, marked like those of the dorsal ; gill-cover 
 marked with five or six dark round spots (colour and spots very va- 
 riable). First dorsal fin placed half-way between the point of the 
 snout and a little beyond the fleshy portion of the tail ; the first two 
 rays simple (there are generally three simple rays in the trout and 
 salmon, but the first being so very small is not taken into considera- 
 tion), the rest branched ; the fourth the longest, equalling the length 
 of the long ray of the caudal fin ; the last considerably more than 
 half the length of the fourth ; the eighth as long as the base of the 
 fin. Adipose fin in a line immediately over the base of the last ray 
 of the anal, and nearer the last ray of the dorsal than to the tip of 
 the tail ; caudal fin nearly even at the end (in young specimens more 
 or less forked) ; the fourth ray of the anal fin the longest, nearly twice 
 the length of the base of the fin; the last ray half the length of the fifth ; 
 all the rays branch except the two first which are simple ; fourth ray 
 of the ventral fin the longest, equalling the length of the seventh ray 
 of the dorsal; base of the ventrals in a line under the last ray but 
 five of the dorsal. Pectorals rounded, the fourth ray the longest, a 
 very little longer than the long ray of the caudal fin ; the last ray 
 but one half the length of the third. Basal line of the operculum ob- 
 lique ; suboperculum slightly produced behind (in some individuals 
 
 * Salmofario Auctorum. 
 
THE COMMON TROUT. 305 
 
 it is very marked) ; jaws nearly equal ; the posterior extremity of 
 the maxillary reaching beyond the orbit. Teeth sharp and stout, 
 slightly curved inwards ; about thirty in the upper jaw, twenty-four 
 in the lower, twelve on each palatine, ten on the vomer, and eight 
 on the tongue. Scales small and adherent ; flesh white ; cseca forty- 
 two.* Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 14 ; P. 13 ; V. 9 ; A. 11 ; C. 18 ; " Vertebree 56." 
 
 Trout are liable to much variation as to colour,-)- which 
 seems greatly to depend on the situation and the waters 
 they are accustomed to inhabit. Thus if one of these fish 
 be taken from a small burn, running over a peaty soil, 
 shaded by high banks, or overhanging trees, it will be 
 found almost invariably of small size, seldom exceeding the 
 weight of half a pound ; with the head large in proportion, 
 the belly, back, and sides, of a dark colour, and in some 
 instances assuming a perfect black. If taken from a river 
 overgrown with weeds, and flowing through a mossy dis- 
 trict, it will be found marked with large black spots, placed 
 in a pale circle, the back dark, and the sides shaded with 
 green. But when newly taken from a translucent stream, 
 which glides over a sandy or gravelly soil, it is found to be 
 exquisitely beautiful ; the head and back of an olive brown, 
 the spots clearly displayed, and the sides tinged with the 
 most brilliant orange and gold. It is perhaps owing to these 
 variations in colour, that many species of trout are said to 
 exist. "' One cause of the variation is the difference of food, 
 and, according to every information we possess, those which 
 
 " In those trout which inhabit highland streams, I have never found the 
 number of cseca to exceed forty-six, the average number being forty- two. 
 
 f See Observations and Experiments on the Colour of Fishes, by Dr Stark, 
 In Edin. New Phil. Jour. Oct. 1830, p. 327. 
 
 In the Tweed I have frequently observed a singular variety of trout s 
 which is considered by the fishermen as the young of the bull-trout. Ge- 
 neral length about eight inches; vomerine teeth nine; pectorals of an orange 
 colour ; anal pure white ; anterior part of the dorsal with a dark band (as 
 in S.fario) ; and the extremity of the caudal fin is margined with black. It 
 is found in the month of May in company with the you n g of the migratorv 
 species. 
 
 VOL. VII. U 
 
300 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 feed on fresh-water shells, Gammari (screws, or fresh-water 
 shrimps as they are sometimes called), are of the most bril- 
 liant tint, and also of the finest flavour, with a decided pink- 
 ness in their flesh. Those feeding on the ordinary water 
 insects are next in brilliancy and flavour, while such as live 
 chiefly upon aquatic vegetables, are dull in colour, and of 
 soft consistence." 
 
 The average growth of trout found in lowland streams, is 
 from half to three-quarters of a pound ; occasionally they 
 may be taken weighing a pound, but one a pound and a half, 
 and from that to two pounds, is considered a prize to the 
 angler. We sometimes hear of trout being taken the weight 
 of fifteen, twenty, and even five and twenty pounds, but these 
 are of rare occurrence. 
 
 Trout deposit their ova in the shallows in the early part 
 of November, and when that operation is completed, they 
 retire to deep water, where they conceal themselves during 
 the colder months. 
 
 This fish is found in every burn and river entering the 
 Firth of Forth, and is extensively distributed over the 
 whole of northern Europe. 
 
 SALMO CJSCIFER.* THE LOCHLEVEN TROUT. 
 
 Specific Characters. Vomerine teeth extending the whole way ; 
 caudal fin lunate ; body without red spots. (See Plate XXX.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen a foot in length. Head rather 
 more than one-fifth of the whole length ; caudal fin included ; depth 
 between the dorsal and ventral fins less than the length of the head. 
 Gill-cover produced behind ; basal margin of the operculum oblique ; 
 preoperculum rounded ; end of the maxillarj^ extending back as far 
 as the posterior margin of the orbit. Colour of the back deep olive- 
 green ; sides lighter ; bellyiin dining to yellow ; pectorals orange, tip- 
 ped with grey ; dorsal and caudal fins dusky ; ventral and anal fins 
 
 * Salmo Levenensis, Walker ; Salmo ccecifer, Parnell. The caeca being 
 more numerous in this species than in any of its congeners. 
 
THE LOCHLEVEN TROUT. 3()7 
 
 lighter ; gill-cover with nine round dark spots j body above the late- 
 ral line with seventy spots ; below it ten ; dorsal fin thickly marked 
 with spots of a similar kind ; anterior extremities of the anal and 
 dorsal fins without the oblique dark bands which are so conspicuous 
 and constant in many individuals of S. Fario. First dorsal fin placed 
 half-way between the point of the upper jaw and a little beyond the 
 fleshy portion of the caudal extremity of the body ; all the rays 
 branched except the two first ; the third ray the longest, equalling 
 the length of the long caudal ray ; the seventh as long as the base of the 
 fin - t the last considerably more than half the length of the third, equal- 
 ling the length of the middle caudal ray ; fin even at the end (in many 
 specimens it is concave, with .the last ray longer than the preceding 
 one.) Caudal fin crescent shaped, the middle ray rather more than half 
 the length of the longest ray j third ray of the anal fin the longest, 
 equalling the length of the fifth dorsal ray ; the last ray as long as 
 the base of the fin, ventral fin equalling the length of the fifth ray of 
 the anal j the third ray the longest ; third ray of the pectorals equal- 
 ling the length of the long caudal ray ; the last ray half the length 
 of the fin. Teeth stout and sharp, curved slightly inwards ; thirty- 
 two in the upper jaw, eighteen on the lower ; twelve on each pala- 
 tine ; thirteen on the vomer ; and eight on the tongue. Scales small' 
 and adherent, twenty-four in an oblique row between the middle 
 dorsal ray and the lateral line ; flesh deep red ; ceeca eighty. Num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 lstD.12; P.12; V.9; A.10; C. 19. 
 
 This fish is considered by most writers on British ichthyo- 
 logy to be identical with Salmo fario or common trout, 
 differing from it only in the colour of the flesh, and in hav- 
 ing no red spots on the sides. It is true that food and sea- 
 son may have a great share in diminishing or increasing the 
 external markings and colour of the flesh;* but they can 
 have no effect in shortening or lengthening the rays of the 
 fins, or in adding numbers to the caecal appendages. 
 
 The differences that exist between S. cceciferand S. fario 
 are very striking. The pectorals in S. ccecifer when expanded 
 
 * James Stuart Menteath, Esq. of Closeburn, caught a number of small 
 river trout, and transferred them to a lake (Loch Ettrick) where they grew 
 rapidly ; their flesh, which previously exhibited a white chalky appearance* 
 became in a short time of a deep red, while their external appearance re- 
 mained the same from the time they were first put in. 
 
308 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 are pointed, in S. fario they are rounded. The caudal fin in 
 S. ccecifer is lunated at the end ; in S. fario itis sinuous or even. 
 S. ccecifer has never any red spots ; S. fario is scarcely ever 
 without them. The caudal rays are much longer in ccecifer 
 than m fario, in fish of equal length. In S. ccecifer the tail- 
 fin is pointed at the upper and lower extremities ; in S. fario 
 they are rounded. The flesh of S. ccecifer is of a deep red, 
 that of S.Jario is pinkish and often white. The caecal ap- 
 pendages in S. ccecifer are from sixty to eighty in number ; 
 in S. fario, I have never found them to exceed forty-six. 
 
 " Lochleven (of which the barren isle and now dismant- 
 led castle are famous in history as the prison-place of the 
 beautiful Queen Mary) has long been celebrated for its 
 breed of trout. These, however, have fallen off of late con- 
 siderably in their general flavour and condition, owing, it is 
 said, to the partial drainage of the Loch having destroyed 
 their best feeding ground, by exposing the beds of fresh- 
 water shells, which form the greater portion of their food."* 
 They spawn in January, February, and March. The fish 
 described does not appear to be peculiar to this loch, as I 
 have seen specimens that were taken in some of the lakes 
 in the county of Sutherland with several other trout, which 
 were too hastily considered as mere varieties of S. fario. It 
 is more than probable that the Scottish lakes produce seve- 
 ral species of trout known at present by the name of S. 
 fario, and which remain to be further investigated. 
 
 SALMO uMBLA.-f- THE NORTHERN CHARR. 
 
 Specific Characters. Vomerine teeth confined to the anterior part ; 
 body spotted with white or red ; axillary scale more than one-third 
 the length of the ventrals. 
 
 Encyc. Brit. There are two or three varieties of S. fario in Lochleven 
 with white and pinkish flesh, which are much inferior in flavour to S. ceecifer. 
 
 \Salmo umbla, Cuv.,Yarr., Jen., S. alpinus, Penn., Alpine Charr, Case 
 Charr. 
 
THE NORTHERN CHARR. 309 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches and a half in length. 
 Head one-sixth of the whole length., caudal fin included ; depth of 
 the body under the dorsal, equalling the length of the head ; basal 
 line of the operculum oblique ; suboperculum very broad, slightly 
 produced at its inferior posterior margin ; preoperculum sinuous ; 
 jaws nearly equal. Colour of the back dark olive ; sides bluish-grey; 
 belly inclining to yellow ; dorsal and caudal fins dusky ; ventrals red- 
 dish ; pectorals tinged with grey ; sides spotted with white, more con- 
 spicuous above the lateral line. (During the spawning season the 
 back is umber-brown ; the sides greyish ; the belly, pectoral, ventral, 
 and anal fins, bright crimson-red ; the first ray of the ventral and anal 
 fins white ; the sides above and below the lateral line marked with 
 red spots.) Dorsal fin situated half-way between the point of the 
 upper jaw and the base of the middle caudal ray ; third ray the long- 
 est, equalling the length of the pectorals ; the sixth as long as the 
 base of the fin ; the last one-half the length of the fourth ; adipose fin 
 rather small ; placed nearer the last ray of the dorsal than to the tip 
 of the caudal fin. Tail forked, the middle ray one-half the length of 
 the longest ray of the same fin ; anal fin shorter than the dorsal, the 
 last ray the shortest, one-third the length of the fourth ; the sixth ray 
 as long as the base of the fin ; ventrals equalling in length the long- 
 . est ray of the anal ; axillary scale not half the length of the fin ; pec- 
 torals pointed, the last ray about one third the length of the second. 
 Teeth small and sharp in both jaws and on the palatines ; those on 
 the vomer few in number and confined to the most anterior extremi- 
 ty ; tongue with six teeth rather stouter than the others ; lateral line 
 straight throughout its course ; scales small and adherent ; flesh red. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 12; P. 12; V. 9; A. 12; C. 19. 
 
 The usual weight of this species of Charr is about three 
 quarters of a pound, although specimens have been occa- 
 sionally taken weighing beyond two pounds. It is found in 
 many of the lakes of England, Wales, and Scotland, and 
 has received various names according to the intensity of the 
 colours it presents at different periods of the year ; and even 
 individuals taken at the same period are often found to 
 vary excessively in this respect. Thus, " six specimens 
 of Charr were selected from a hawl of a net taken in Win- 
 dermere on the 12th December a few seasons ago, exhibit- 
 ing the following variations as to colour : No. 1, ground- 
 
310 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 colour of the body pale ashy-brown, somewhat lighter be- 
 neath the lateral line ; sides richly marked with scarlet spots 
 of different sizes ; the whole of the under surface from the 
 pectorals to the tail brilliant scarlet ; fins margined ante- 
 riorly with an opaque white stripe followed by a blackish- 
 brown portion passing posteriorly into deep crimson ; tail 
 blackish-brown ; nose and front part of the head marked 
 by a black spot ; dorsal fin of the same pale brown colour 
 as the back, slightly inclining to blue. Apparently a male. 
 No. 2, back brown, becoming gradually paler beneath ; 
 abdomen and lower parts dingy white, tinged with bluish 
 colour ; ventral and anal fins margined with white, the re- 
 maining parts flesh colour ; pectorals reddish-brown ; dor- 
 sal and caudal fins blackish-brown ; sides marked with ob- 
 scure pale yellowish-red spots. A male specimen, which 
 apparently had spawned. No. 3, of a blackish-brown co- 
 lour, somewhat silvery, paler beneath the lateral line, and 
 passing into yellowish -white on the belly ; pectoral, ventral, 
 and anal fins brown, tinged with red ; dorsal and caudal 
 fins brownish-black ; upper part of the head of the same 
 colour ; sides marked with numerous, very pale, almost co- 
 lourless spots. No. 4 resembles the last described, but 
 smaller in size ; these the fishermen named Geld-fish, full- 
 grown and half-grown. No. 5 very dark, brownish-black 
 upon the back and sides, becoming gradually paler beneath 
 the lateral line ; pectoral, ventral, and anal fins distinctly 
 margined anteriorly with opaque white ; the central por- 
 tion of these fins brownish-black, and their interior margins 
 flesh colour ; upper part of the head dark ; belly dingy red. 
 No. 6 resembles the preceding, except that the under sur- 
 face instead of being dingy red, is pale reddish- white ; ven- 
 tral and anal fins reddish-brown, margined anteriorly with 
 white ; pectorals reddish-brown ; dorsal brownish-black ; 
 
THE NORTHERN CHARR. 311 
 
 both these specimens are marked on the sides with obscure, 
 pale reddish spots. These two fish were what the fisher- 
 men called Case Charr (Salmo alpinus) male and female, 
 yet the pectoral, ventral., and anal fins of the former, and 
 the ventral and anal fins of the latter sex were conspicuously 
 margined with white, although that character is usually re- 
 garded as distinctive of the torgoch or Red Charr"* 
 
 It is the opinion of M. Agassiz that the Salmo umbla, S. 
 alpinus, S. salvelinus, and S. salmarinus of Linnaeus, are all 
 the same fish, differing only as regards colour ; and Pen- 
 nant states that, on the closest examination, he could find 
 no specific differences between the Red Charr, the Case 
 Charr, the Gelt Charr, and Silver Charr of the northern 
 lakes. 
 
 The Northern Charr, in the months of November and 
 December, leaves the deep waters and ascends the tributary 
 streams to deposit its spawn in the shallows, when numbers 
 are taken with the net at the very time when their preserva- 
 tion ought to be the most strictly attended to, and when, in 
 truth, they begin to fall off in their condition. From their 
 great unwillingness to take a fly, they offer but little diver- 
 sion to the angler, except to those who are in the habit of 
 skilfully using the minnow, when as many as two dozen 
 have been taken in a day by a single rod. According to 
 Sir William Jardine their food seems to be minute Ento- 
 mostraca. A few specimens are occasionally taken in Loch- 
 leven when dragging the net for trout. 
 
 Salmo umbla is distinguished from S.Jario^ S. ccecifer, S. 
 salmulus, and S. trutta, by haying the anterior part of the 
 vomer only armed with teeth ; and from S. eriox and S. 
 salar, by the body being marked with red or white spots. 
 There are many other distinguishing characters, but these 
 * Art. Ichthyology, Encyc. Brit. 
 
312 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 are the most prominent. In what specific characters the 
 S. umbla differs from the Welsh Charr of Yarrell I am not 
 at present prepared to state. Mr Jenyns appears to have 
 placed reliance on the position of the dorsal fin as a charac- 
 ter in the Welsh Charr. He states that it is situated ex- 
 actly in the middle of the entire length ; but, judging from 
 Mr YarrelPs figure of the fish, the dorsal fin is placed half- 
 way between the tip of the upper jaw and the base of the 
 middle caudal ray, like that observed in the Northern Charr. 
 According to Mr Yarrell the chief differences which exist be- 
 tween the two Chairs are these, that " the Northern Charr 
 is an elegantly-shaped slender-bodied fish, with fins of small 
 comparative size ; whereas the Welsh Charr is a short fish, 
 considerably deeper for its length, with very large fins, the 
 eye and gape are also much larger than in the Northern 
 Charr." 
 
 GENUS OSMERUS. Branchiostegous membrane with 
 eight rays only ; anal fin with more than fourteen rays ; 
 gape large ; teeth long and sharp ; intestinal canal without 
 caeca. 
 
 OSMERUS EPERLANUS.* THE SPERLING. 
 
 Specific Characters. Vomerine teeth confined to the anterior extre- 
 mity ; under jaw longest. 
 
 Description. From a specimen eight inches in length. Head one- 
 fifth of the whole length, caudal included ; depth of the body under 
 the dorsal fin less than the length of the head ; basal line of the oper- 
 culum rather oblique ; suboperculum slightly produced behind at its 
 superior posterior margin ; preoperculum approaching to angular ; 
 under jaw the longest ; the extremity of the maxillary extending 
 back as far as the posterior margin of the orbit. Colour of the back 
 as far as the lateral line, dusky green ; sides marked with a metallic 
 grey band, extending from the upper part of the gill-cover to the 
 
 * Osmerus eperlanus, Cuv., Flem., Yarr., Jen. Salmo eperlanus, Linn., 
 Penn., Don. Smelt, Sperling. 
 
THE SPERLING. 313 
 
 base of the tail ; belly, cheeks, and gill-covers, silvery- white ; pecto- 
 ral, ventral, and anal fins light straw-colour ; dorsal and caudal pale 
 ash-green. First ray of the dorsal fin arises exactly half-way between 
 the point of the upper jaw and the base of the middle caudal ray ; 
 the first two rays simple, the rest branched, the third the longest, 
 equalling the length of the long caudal ray; the last ray the shortest, 
 one-half the length of the fourth ; the last but three equalling the 
 length of the base of the fin ; adipose fin situated in a line over the 
 last ray but three of the anal, and half-way between the base of the 
 last ray of the dorsal and end of the middle caudal ray ; tail-fin 
 deeply forked, the middle ray not half the length of the longest ray 
 of the same fin ; third ray of the anal the longest, being as long as 
 the base of the fin ; the last ray half the length of the fourth ; ven- 
 trals commencing in a line under the second ray of the dorsal, the 
 second and third rays the longest, being as long as the fourth ray of 
 the dorsal ; pectorals equalling the length of the ventrals ; teeth 
 small and sharp in both jaws, those in the upper jaw much the finest ; 
 two rows of teeth on each of the palatines, but none on the vomer, 
 except two or three very long ones placed on the most anterior extre- 
 mity; tongue furnished with a number of teeth, those in front large, 
 and slightly bent inwards, those behind small and fine ; eyes mode- 
 rate, situated nearer the posterior margin of the preoperculum than 
 to the point of the upper jaw ; scales large ( Jenyns states they are 
 minute), sixty-four forming the lateral line, and six in an oblique 
 row between it and the base of the dorsal fin. Intestinal canal with- 
 out csecal appendages. The fish emits the smell of green rushes. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 10 ; P. 12 ; V. 8 ; A. 15 ; C. 19, 
 
 It is stated by Pennant that the Smelt inhabits the seas 
 of the northern parts of Europe, and that it is found as far 
 south as in the Seine. As a British fish, Mr Yarrell says, 
 " it appears to be almost exclusively confined to the eastern 
 and western coast of Great Britain, and that he is not aware 
 of any good authority for the appearance of the true Smelt 
 between Dover and the Land's End. The fish called Smelt 
 and Sand- smelt along the extended line of our southern 
 coast, is, in reality, the Atherine." 
 
 " On the eastern side of our island the Smelt occurs in 
 the Tay, in the Firth of Forth, in the Ure on the York- 
 
314 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 shire coast ; it is taken in abundance in the H umber, and on 
 the Lincolnshire coast, in the Thames, and the Medway. On 
 the western side, the Smelt is taken in the Sol way Firth, and 
 may be traced as far south as the parallel line formed by 
 the Mersey, the Dee, the Conway, and Dublin Bay." 
 
 In the Firth of Forth, in the neighbourhood of Alloa, the 
 Smelt, or Sperling as it is there named, is taken in great 
 numbers, especially towards the fall of the year. From 
 November till January, those then taken are generally of 
 small size, seldom measuring more than from four to six 
 inches in length, but after that time to the end of March, 
 the larger ones make their appearance and the young ones 
 disappear ; and it is from this circumstance that two spe- 
 cies are said to exist, which, in reality, are the same, differ- 
 ing only in size. It i& very seldom that specimens are 
 found more than ten inches in length, although Pennant 
 mentions having seen one thirteen inches long, and which 
 weighed half a pound. In the month of March these fish 
 ascend the Forth in large shoals to deposit their spawn in 
 the fresh water ; this they shed in immense quantity about 
 two miles below Stirling Bridge, when at that time every 
 stone, plank, and post, appear, to be covered with their yel- 
 lowish-coloured ova. The young, from three to five inches 
 in length, can be taken at Alloa throughout the summer 
 months, but the larger specimens are only met with during 
 the season of spawning. The Sperling is much esteemed 
 as a luxury for the table, and numbers are sent to the Edin- 
 burgh market where they receive a ready sale. Their fa- 
 vourite food seems to be small shrimps. 
 
 The most important character which distinguishes Osme- 
 rus eperlanus from the genus Salmo, is in having no csecal 
 appendages, whereas the caeca in that genus are very nu- 
 merous. 
 
THE HERRING. 315 
 
 FAMILY IV. CLUPEID^. Dorsal fin one; no adi- 
 pose fin ; intestinal canal with caeca. 
 
 GENUS CLUPEA. Vorner and tongue furnished with 
 teeth ; under jaw longest. 
 
 CLUPEA HARENGUS.* THE HEKKING. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fin placed exactly half-way between 
 the point of the upper jaw, and the tip of the long caudal rays ; 
 ventrals situated under the dorsal. (See Plate XXXV.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen eleven inches in length. Head, 
 measuring from the point of the lower jaw, when opened, to the pos- 
 terior margin of the gill-cover, nearly one -fifth of the whole length, 
 caudal fin included ; depth of the body under the dorsal equalling 
 the length of the head. Dorsal fin placed exactly in the middle of 
 the fish ; the base of the first ray situated half-way between the 
 point of the upper jaw and the end of the scaly portion of the body ; 
 the fourth ray the longest, not quite equalling the length of the base of 
 the fin ; the last ray exactly one-half the length of the eighth ; all the 
 rays branched except the three first which are simplej; caudal fin deeply 
 forked, the middle ray about one-third the length of the longest ray. 
 First ray of the anal fin arises mid-way between the origin of the ven- 
 trals and the base of the middle caudal ray ; the third ray the long- 
 est, about half the length of the base of the fin ; ventrals equalling 
 the length of the sixth ray of the dorsal, and placed in a vertical line 
 under the base of that ray ; pectorals pointed, of a triangular form, 
 and about twice as long as the tenth ray of the dorsal. Colour of 
 the back, glossy blue ; sides and belly silvery- white ; dorsal and 
 caudal fins, dusky ; ventrals and anal, white ; under jaw tipped with 
 black. Eyes large, placed nearer the point of the upper jaw than to 
 the posterior margin of the operculum. Teeth very minute (Pennant 
 states that the whole mouth is void of teeth) six or eight in a row on 
 the most anterior'part of each jaw, those on the lower jaw being longer 
 and more perceptible ; vomer with a double row about sixteen in 
 number; each palatine with a single row somewhat smaller than 
 those on the vomer ; tongue also armed with a number of teeth ar- 
 ranged in three or four rows, with their points directed inwards. 
 Maxillary large, broad, and thin, extending as far back as in a line 
 under the middle of the eye ; basal line of the operculum oblique 
 
 * Clupea harengus, Auctorum. Zoo/. Bet. Mag, vol. i. Parnell. 
 
316 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 and sinuous ; suboperculum slight^ angular at its inferior posterior 
 margin. Scales large, thin, and very deciduous, placed in fifteen 
 rows between the dorsal and ventral fins ; lateral line not percep- 
 tible ; csecal appendages about twenty in number. Most authors sup- 
 pose that the belly of the herring is never serrated, at any stage of 
 its growth, and which is said to form a good specific distinction be- 
 tween it and the sprat ; but it will be found that this is not the case, 
 for a herring less than six inches in length is as distinctly serrated 
 on the belly, between the ventral and anal fins, as a sprat of equal 
 size ; and as the herring increases in size so the serratures become 
 obliterated, and by the time the fish reaches to the length of eight 
 inches, the belly will be found to be no longer serrated, but cari- 
 nated. The serratures can be more evidently perceived when the ab- 
 dominal scales are removed-, which often project beyond the teeth, 
 and prevent their points from being felt when the finger is passed 
 from the anal, towards the pectorals. Number of fin rays 
 D. 17 ; P. 16 ; V. 9 ; A. 15 ; C. 20 ; Vert. 56. 
 
 The Herring is distinguished from the Sprat, in the dor- 
 sal fin being placed exactly in the centre of the fish, that 
 Is, half-way between the point of the upper jaw and the end 
 of the long caudal rays ; and in the base of the ventrals 
 being in a vertical line under the sixth ray of the dorsal 
 fin ; in the Sprat the dorsal fin is situated nearer the tip 
 of the tail-fin, than to the point of the snout ; and the ori- 
 gin of the ventrals is placed a little anterior to the first ray 
 of the dorsal fin. The Herring has fifty-six vertebrae ; the 
 Sprat has but forty-eight. The scales in the Herring are 
 arranged in fifteen rows between the dorsal and ventral 
 fins ; in the Sprat there are but seven rows in that posi- 
 tion. 
 
 The Herring is readily known from the Pilchard in the 
 position of the dorsal fin. If the Herring be held up by 
 the anterior rays of the dorsal fin, the head will be obser- 
 ved to dip considerably ; whereas if the Pilchard be held 
 up by the same part, the body preserves an equilibrium. 
 The Herring very strikingly differs from the Whitebait, 
 in colour ; the back of the Herring is of a dark glossy blue ; 
 
THE HERRING. 317 
 
 in the Whitebait that part is of a pale greenish ash colour ; 
 the origin of the first ray of the dorsal fin in the Herring 
 is situated exactly half-way between the point of the up- 
 per jaw and the base of the middle caudal ray ; in the 
 Whitebait the same fin is placed mid- way between the 
 point of the upper jaw and the end of the middle caudal 
 ray. 
 
 Herrings enter the Firth of Forth about the end of De- 
 cember or the beginning of January, and remain two or 
 three weeks at the mouth of the estuary, before they at- 
 tempt to ascend. This delay seems greatly to depend on 
 the state of the weather, for in some seasons when it is mild 
 and fine, they have been observed to swarm in the Firth off* 
 Musselburgh in the early part of January ; whilst in the 
 rough and stormy seasons they do not make their appear- 
 ance on that part of the coast before the middle of February, 
 and always disappear before the end of March. They seem 
 to visit the Firth regularly every winter, and a season very 
 seldom passes without a few being captured, and sent to the 
 Edinburgh market. Some years they appear in much 
 larger shoals than in others, the reason of which is not ac- 
 counted for. In the year 1816, pilchards were taken in 
 the Firth of Forth, in great abundance, when not a dozen 
 herrings were seen during the whole winter. Since that 
 time not a single Pilchard has been known to enter the 
 estuary. 
 
 " The herring is in truth a most capricious fish,*" says 
 Dr MacCulloch, " seldom remaining long in one place ; 
 and there is scarcely a fishing station round the British 
 Islands, that has not experienced in the visits of this fish the 
 greatest variations, both as to time and quantity, without 
 any accountable reason. In Long Island, one of the He- 
 brides, it was asserted that the fish had been driven away 
 
318 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 by the manufactory of kelp, some imaginary coincidence 
 having been found between their disappearance and the es- 
 tablishment of that business. But the kelp fires did not 
 drive them away from other shores, which they frequent 
 and abandon indifferently without regard to this work. It 
 has been a still favourite and popular fancy, that they were 
 driven away by firing of guns ; and hence this is not al- 
 lowed during the fishing season. A gun has scarcely been 
 fired in the Western Islands, or on the west coast, since 
 the days of Cromwell ; yet they have changed their places 
 many times in that interval. In a similar manner, and with 
 equal truth, it was said that they had been driven from the 
 Baltic by the battle of Copenhagen. Before the days of 
 guns and gunpowder, the Highlanders held that they 
 quitted coasts where blood had been shed : and thus ancient 
 philosophy is renovated. Steam-boats are now supposed to 
 be the culprits, since a reason must be found. To prove 
 their effect, Loch Fine, visited by a steam-boat daily, is 
 now their favourite haunt, and they have deserted other 
 lochs where steam-boats have never yet smoked. A mem. 
 ber of the House of Commons, in a debate on a tithe bill 
 lately stated, that a clergyman having obtained a living on 
 the coast of Ireland, signified his intention of taking the 
 tithe of fish, which was, however, considered to be so utterly 
 repugnant to the privileges and feelings of the finny race, 
 that not a single herring has ever since visited that part of 
 the shore." 
 
 In June, July, and August, herrings are taken off the 
 Dunbar and Berwick coasts in considerable number, from 
 whence the Edinburgh market is abundantly supplied, 
 when scarcely a single herring is to be seen higher in the 
 Firth of a size worth the notice of the fishermen. 
 
 Herrings are said to deposit their spawn towards the end 
 
THE HERRING. 319 
 
 of October, and it is nearly three months previous to this 
 operation that they are found to appear on our shores, 
 when they become of so great national importance. 
 
 The spawning of these fish in October only does not ap- 
 pear to me to account for the number of small fry, two in- 
 ches in length, that are found in the Firth of Forth during 
 the month of July ; and the young herrings that are taken 
 from six to seven inches long in the month of February, 
 mixed also with fry from two to three inches in length. 
 When herrings are brought to the market in the first two 
 months of the year, I have always found them full of 
 spawn, and in the middle of March I have observed many 
 very lank, with not a single ovum to be seen in them. 
 Hence it is not improbable that the same species of her- 
 ring may spawn twice in the year, early in the month of 
 March, and also towards the end of October. 
 
 Pennant supposes that the herring migrates to a con- 
 siderable distance ; that they begin to appear first off the 
 Shetland Islands, in April and May, and to divide into 
 distinct columns from four to six miles in length, and three 
 to four in breadth ; and that, after they have taken their 
 circuit, they return again to the Arctic Circle, where they 
 recruit themselves after the fatigue of spawning. But it 
 is more consistent to suppose, that the herrings approach 
 our shores for the purpose of depositing their spawn like 
 other fishes, and when this is accomplished, return again 
 to the deep sea. Dr Knox considers the food of the Her- 
 ring, while inhabiting the depths of the ocean, to consist 
 principally of minute entomostracous animals ; but it is 
 certainly less choice (adds Mr Yarrell) in its selection 
 when near the shore. Dr Neill found five young herrings 
 in the stomach of a large female herring ; he has also known 
 them to be taken by the fishermen on their lines, the hooks 
 
320 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 of which were baited with limpets. Herrings feed on the 
 roe of their own species and of other fishes. I have often 
 found the young of the whitebait with small shrimps in 
 the stomach of herrings when they were not in roe; but 
 when they are about to spawn, their stomachs (as is obser- 
 ved in most other fishes at that period) appear as if empty, 
 and destitute of any perceptible food. On the authority of 
 Dr Fleming, the fry have been caught with a trout-fly. Sir 
 William Jardine states, " that, on the coasts of the West 
 Highlands, herrings for many years past have been taken 
 with the rod, the hook dressed with a white feather (generally 
 from some of the gulls). Near Oban, and upon the shores 
 of Mull and Jura, twelve dozen are sometimes taken by a 
 single boat during the evening. 11 
 
 CLUPEA PILCHARDUS.* THE PILCHARD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fin exactly in the centre of gravity ; 
 ventrals under the dorsal. 
 
 Description. " From a specimen nine inches in length. Much 
 resembles the herring, but rather smaller and thicker ; length of the 
 head, to the whole length of the fish, as one to five ; depth of the 
 body equal to the length of the head ; transverse thickness of the 
 body equal to half its depth ; form of the head triangular, the upper 
 surface flat ; dorsal and abdominal lines slightly and equally convex ; 
 no perceptible lateral line ; body across the back obtusely rounded ; 
 line of the abdomen smooth ; the edges of the scales of the two sides 
 having a longitudinal groove from the branchiostegous rays to the 
 vent, along which groove extends a row of scales of a peculiar shape ; 
 the two long, narrow, lateral arms extending up each side under the 
 scales, the shortest projection pointing backwards ; the scales of the 
 body very large, deciduous, and ciliated at the free edge. The dis- 
 tance from the point of the nose to the base of the last ray of the dor- 
 sal fin, and from thence half-way along the caudal rays, nearly equal ; 
 the commencement of the dorsal fin is therefore anterior to the mid- 
 dle of the fish by the whole length of the base of the fin ; the first 
 and second rays shorter than the third, which is equal to the length 
 
 * Clupea pilchardus, Auctorum. Pilchard, Gipsy Herring. 
 
THE PILCHARD, 
 
 of the base of the fin ; these first three rays articulated, but simple ; 
 all the other rays branched ; pectoral and ventral fins small, the lat- 
 ter commencing in a line under the middle of the dorsal fin ; the 
 axillary scales very long ; anal fin commencing- half-way between 
 the origin of the ventral fins and the end of the flesh portion of the 
 tail ; the first ray short, the second and the last two rays the longest ; 
 tail deeply forked ; the scales at the end of the fleshy portion of the 
 body extending far over the bases of the caudal rays, particularly 
 two elongated scales above and below the middle line. Mouth small, 
 without teeth, under jaw the longest / the breadth of the eye one- 
 fourth of the length of the head, and placed at rather more than its 
 own breadth from the point of the nose ; irides yellowish- white ; 
 cheeks and all the parts of the gill-covers tinged with golden-yellow, 
 and marked with various radiating strise ; posterior edge of the oper- 
 culum nearly vertical and straight ; upper part of the body bluish- 
 green ; sides and belly silvery- white ; dorsal fin and tail dusky. The 
 fin rays in number are 
 
 D. 18; P. 16; V. 8; A. 18; C. 19; Vert. 55." (Yarrell.) 
 
 The Pilchard is become of late a very rare fish in the 
 Firth of Forth, as well as along the whole eastern line of 
 the Scottish shores ; yet, about thirty years ago, it was 
 found in equal abundance in certain localities as the com- 
 mon herring. A few are taken occasionally in the summer 
 months on the Berwick and Dunbar coasts, but since the 
 year 1816, no appearance of a Pilchard has been observed 
 in the Firth of Forth. 
 
 " The older naturalists considered the Pilchard, like the 
 herring, as a visitor from a distant region ; and they as- 
 signed to it also the same place of resort as that fish, with 
 which, indeed, the Pilchard has been sometimes confounded. 
 To this it will be a sufficient reply, that the Pilchard is 
 never seen in the Northern Ocean, and the few that some- 
 times wander through the Straits of Dover, or the British 
 Channel, have evidently suffered from passing so far out of 
 their accustomed limits. They frequent the French coasts, 
 and are seen on those of Spain ; but on neither in consider- 
 able numbers, or with much regularity, so that few fishes 
 
 VOL. VII. X 
 
322 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 confine themselves within such narrow bounds. On the 
 coast of Cornwall, they are found through all the seasons 
 of the year, and even there their habits vary in the different 
 months. In January, they keep near the bottom, and are 
 chiefly seen in the stomachs of ravenous fishes ; in March, 
 they sometimes assemble in schulls, and thousands of hogs- 
 heads have in some years been taken in seans ; but this 
 union is only partial, and not permanent ; and it is not un- 
 til July that they regularly and permanently congregate, 
 so as to be sought 'after by the fishermen."* Mr Couch 
 says, "In some years, at least, a considerable body of Pil- 
 chards shed spawn in the month of May, perhaps in the 
 middle of the Channel, where I have known them taken 
 heavy with roe, in drift-nets shot for mackerel ; yet it seems 
 certain that they do not breed twice in the year, and that 
 the larger body do not perform this function until October, 
 and then at no great distance from the shore. I have known 
 an equally great variation to occur in other fishes, which 
 have in consequence visited us, and been in season, at a 
 time not expected by the fishermen." They feed on small 
 crustaceous animals, and the roe of their own and of other 
 species of fishes. 
 
 The Pilchard is easily distinguished from the herring, 
 sprat, and whitebait, by the position of the dorsal fin. If 
 either of the three latter fish be suspended by the anterior 
 dorsal rays, the head will be observed to dip considerably, 
 whereas if the Pilchard be suspended by the same part, the 
 body will preserve an equilibrium. 
 
 CLUPEA spRATxus.f THE SPRAT. 
 
 Specific Character. Base of the ventral fin placed a little ante- 
 rior to the first ray of the dorsal. (See Plate XXXV.) 
 
 * Yarrell's British Fishes. 
 
 fr Cfapea sprattvs, Cuv. T Yam, ,lcn. Sprat, Gnrvey Herring. 
 
THE SPRAT. 323 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches and a half in length. Head 
 nearly one-fifth the whole length of the fish, tail-fin included ; depth of 
 the body under the dorsal fin equal to the length of the head ; ventral 
 line rather more convex than that of the dorsal, especially in front 
 of the ventrals ; gill-cover rounder at its posterior- inferior margin and 
 slightly notched at its upper border ; eyes large and round, occupy- 
 ing one-half the depth of the head, and situated half-way between 
 the point of the lower jaw and the posterior margin of the opercu- 
 lum j head on the summit flat, smooth and transparent, with a tri- 
 angular reddish- coloured spot placed in a line over the posterior 
 half of the orbit. Colour of the back greenish with a shade of grey ; 
 sides and belly silvery- white ; pectoral, ventral, and anal fins pure 
 white ; dorsal and caudal slightly dusky ; jaws tipped with black. 
 Dorsal fin placed nearer the end of the caudal rays than to the point 
 of the upper jaw ; the first ray very short, the second, third, and 
 fourth gradually increasing in length, the fifth the longest in the fin, 
 teaching, when folded down, to the base of the last ray, all the rays 
 branched except the first five, which are simple ; caudal fin deeply 
 forked, the middle ray not one-half the length of the longest ray. 
 Third ray of the anal fin the longest, about one-third the length of 
 the base of the fin, all the rays branched except the two first; ven- 
 trals small, equal in length to the eighth ray of the dorsal, arising in 
 a line a little in advance of the dorsal fin ; pectorals as long as the 
 base of the anal fin. Teeth small and fine in both jaws, and few in 
 number, situated on the most anterior part, more perceptible on the 
 lower than on the upper jaw ; tongue furnished with fine teeth as well 
 as the roof of the mouth ; under jaw the longest ; maxillary extend- 
 ing back as far as in a line under the middle of the eye. Belly strongly 
 serrated as far as the anal aperture, with thirty-three teeth, their 
 points directing back wards. Scales large and very deciduous, placed 
 in seven or eight rows between the dorsal and ventral fins ; axillary 
 scales nearly half as long as the fin. (Mr Yarrell states, they have 
 no axillary scales.) Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 17 ; P. 15 ; V. 7 ; A. 18 ; C. 19 ; Vert. 48 ; Cseca about 12. 
 
 Sprats are found to frequent the whole of the British 
 coasts, but are observed to exist in much greater numbers 
 on the central part of the eastern coast than elsewhere. 
 They are found in the Firth of Forth throughout the whole 
 of the year, and, like many small animals, appear very sus- 
 ceptible of cold. During the warm summer months, they 
 are seen sporting about in large shoals, in every part of the 
 Forth, occupying a considerable extent of water, and caus- 
 
324 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 ing a ripple on the surface with their fins, while they be- 
 come the principal food of many marine birds, which assail 
 them in the water or prey on them from above. As the 
 cold weather advances, these little fish are no longer seen in 
 the lower part of the estuary, but are found to ascend the 
 Firth to a considerable distance, and to select that part of 
 the river where the fresh and salt waters mingle together : 
 " for it is a well-known law in chemistry, that when two 
 fluids of different densities come in contact, the temperature 
 of the mixture is elevated for a time in proportion to the 
 difference in density of the two fluids ; owing to mutual pe- 
 netration and condensation ; such a mixture is constantly 
 taking place in the rivers that run into the sea, and the 
 temperature of the mixed water is accordingly elevated." 
 In the year 1830, Sprats were remarkably abundant all 
 over the British coasts, but more particularly on the coast of 
 Kent and Essex, where they were taken in immense quanti- 
 ties, so that they were sold at sixpence a bushel as manure for 
 the land. The Sprat is generally considered as a delicious, 
 well- flavoured, and wholesome fish, and is eaten in consider- 
 able quantity in this country, both fresh and salted. Prior 
 to the year 1836, it was of rare occurrence to see Sprats 
 brought to the Edinburgh market, and when they did 
 appear they were sold at the rate of twelve a-penny ; but 
 now, owing to the immense numbers that are taken in 
 the Firth of Forth, they are enabled to be sold in the 
 Edinburgh markets at a low price, and consequently form 
 a cheap and agreeable food to many of the inhabitants. 
 The most common size of a Sprat is from four to five in- 
 ches in length ; yet it is observed occasionally to exceed six 
 inches and a half, when it is named in the neighbourhood 
 of Alloa the King of Garvies. Sprats spawn early in the 
 month of March, and feed on small crustaceous animals. 
 
THE WHITEBAIT. 325 
 
 The Sprat is easily distinguished from the herring, pil- 
 chard, and whitebait, by the position of the ventral fins ; 
 in the Sprat, if a vertical line be dropped from the origin of 
 the first dorsal ray, it will fall behind the base of the ven- 
 tral n ; whereas in the herring, pilchard, and whitebait, the 
 ventrals are under the dorsal. 
 
 CLUPEA ALBA.* THE WHITEBAIT. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fin placed nearer the tip of the caudal 
 fin than to the point of the upper jaw; ventral fins under the dor- 
 sal. (See Plate XXXV.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen two inches and a half in length. 
 Occasionally specimens are found to measure the length of five inches. 
 Shape of the body resembles that of the young herring, but rather 
 more compressed, and of a deeper form. The head, in a specimen 
 five inches long, not quite one-fourth the length of the whole fish ; 
 in a fish four inches long, the head measures one-fourth of the entire 
 length ; in one two inches long, the head is more than one-fourth of 
 the whole length. Colour of the upper part of the back, from the 
 nape to the tail, of a pale greenish-ash ; sides, gill-covers, pectoral, 
 ventral, and anal fins of a beautiful pure white ; dorsal and caudal 
 fins straw-colour, minutely spotted with dark brown ; head, on the 
 summit, in young specimens, marked with a large brown spot, which 
 is divided anteriorly by a white line ; each orbit on the superior mar- 
 gin tinged with black, as well as the posterior-inferior margin, but in 
 a less degree. First ray of the dorsal fin commences exactly mid- 
 way between the point of the upper jaw and the end of the middle 
 caudal rays ; ventrals placed behind the third ray of the dorsal ; tail 
 fin deeply forked, the middle ray being not quite half the length of 
 the longest ray of the same fin ; pectorals pointed, much longer than 
 the base of the anal fin. Scales thin, very deciduous, not so large 
 as those of the sprat ; under jaw the longest ; each jaw, on the an- 
 terior part, furnished with a few small slender teeth, about six in 
 number, placed in one row, which are more perceptible on the lower 
 than on the upper jaw ; on the roof of the mouth, as well as on the 
 tongue, are placed three or more rows of teeth, which can be easily 
 felt by the assistance of the point of a fine needle. Mr Yarrell says, 
 the tongue of the whitebait has an elevated central ridge without 
 teeth ; it is probable that a dried specimen was not examined, for, 
 until in that state, it is almost impossible to perceive the teeth, in 
 
 * Clupea alba, Yarr, 
 
326 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 consequence of their extreme minuteness. This is a most important 
 character, which at once removes it from the shad, which has the 
 tongue and roof of the mouth destitute of teeth. Number of fin 
 rays 
 
 D. 17 ; P. 15 ; V. 9 ; A. 15 ; C. 20 ; Vert. 56 ; Cseca about 15. 
 
 The Whitebait which isfound so plentifully in the Thames, 
 and is so well known in the neighbourhood of London, as 
 a delicate and well-flavoured fish, was supposed by natural- 
 ists to be the young of the shad, until Mr Yarrell, in the 
 Magazine of Natural History, proved it to be a distinct 
 species. In many respects it differs materially from all the 
 other British species of clupea, not only in specific charac- 
 ters, but also in its habits, and is one as distinctly marked 
 as any of its congeners. From the beginning of April to 
 the end of September, this fish, according to Mr Yarrell, 
 may be caught in the Thames as high up as Woolwich or 
 Blackwall every flood tide in considerable quantity ; while 
 during the first three months of this period, neither species 
 of the genus Clupea of any age or size except occasionally a 
 young sprat can be found. 
 
 " About the end of March, or early in April, whitebait 
 begin to make their appearance in the Thames, and remain 
 till the end of September, when they are no longer to be 
 found in the river. In the months of June, July, and Au- 
 gust, provided the weather be fine, immense quantities are 
 consumed by visitors to Greenwich and Blackwall, where 
 epicures of all orders assemble for a whitebait feast. The 
 fishery for these fish is continued in the Thames frequently 
 so late as September, and specimens of young fish of the 
 year, from four to five inches long, are then not uncommon, 
 but mixed, even at this late period of the season, with others 
 of very small size, as if the roe had continued to be depo- 
 sited throughout the summer." 
 
THE WHITEBAIT. 327 
 
 The Whitebait is not, as it was formerly considered to be, 
 peculiar to the Thames, as I have found it to inhabit the 
 Firth of Forth in considerable numbers during the sum- 
 mer months. From the beginning of July to the end of 
 September they are found in great abundance in the neigh- 
 bourhood of Queensferry, and opposite Hopetoun House, 
 where I captured, in one dip of a small net of about a foot 
 and a half square, between two and three hundred fish, the 
 greater part of which were whitebait of small size, not more 
 than two inches in length ; the remainder were sprats, 
 young herring, and fry of other fishes. 
 
 In their habits they appear to be similar to the young of 
 the herring, always keeping in shoals, and swimming oc- 
 casionally near the surface of the water, where they often 
 fall a prey to aquatic birds. 
 
 I have no doubt that the Whitebait will be found to ex- 
 ist in the Firth of Forth, throughout the whole year, in 
 considerable quantity, and that the fishermen would find it 
 a new source of income, equal or superior to the sperling 
 fishery, did they use the mode of fishing for whitebait that 
 is practised in the Thames. But, in consequence of the 
 large extent of the estuary, and of no means being used ex- 
 clusively for the capture of these fish, we can form but a 
 faint idea of the number that may exist there. 
 
 " The whitebait net which is used in the Thames, is not 
 large ; the mouth of it measures only about three feet 
 across, but the mesh of the hose, or bag end of the net, is 
 very small. A boat is moored in the tide- way, where the 
 water is from twenty to thirty feet deep ; the tail of the 
 hose, swimming loose, is from time to time brought into the 
 boat, the end untied, and its contents shaken out. The 
 wooden frame forming the mouth of the net does not dip 
 more than four feet below the surface of the water, 1 ' In 
 the Sol way Firth, the whitebait is also found in great quanti- 
 
328 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 ties in the months of June and July, but remain there 
 disregarded, as their value as a dainty morsel does not ap- 
 pear to be known in that quarter. The principal food of the 
 whitebait seems to be a very minute species of shrimp, which 
 is scarcely larger than a moderate sized flea. 
 
 The Whitebait, four inches long, differs from the her- 
 ring, sprat, and pilchard, of the same length, in the follow- 
 ing characters : 
 
 The herring has the dorsal fin placed half-way between 
 the point of the upper jaw and the end of the long caudal 
 rays, with the head nearly one-fifth the entire length of the 
 fish. The whitebait has the dorsal fin much nearer the tip 
 of the tail than to the point of the upper jaw, with the head 
 exactly one-fourth the length of the whole fish ; the body is 
 more compressed, of a much lighter colour, and the belly much 
 rougher under the pectorals, than is observed in the herring. 
 
 The sprat has the origin of the ventral fins situated an- 
 terior to a vertical line dropped from the first dorsal ray, 
 with forty-eight vertebrae ; the whitebait has fifty-six verte- 
 brae, with the origin of the ventrals placed behind the third 
 ray of the dorsal. In the pilchard, the dorsal fin is placed 
 exactly in the centre of gravity ; in the whitebait it is much 
 behind that point. 
 
 The following is the mode adopted at Greenwich in the 
 cooking of whitebait : Take a quantity of whitebait, put 
 them on a napkin and throw a handful of fine flour with 
 a little salt over them ; roll them about, by laying hold of op- 
 posite sides of the cloth, until they become well covered with 
 the flour. A capacious pot of boiling hot lard being ready, the 
 fish are to be taken up in successive portions by a skellet and 
 thrown into the lard, from which they are to be removed to 
 the dish for the table the instant they have acquired a pale 
 straw colour. 
 
THE TWAITE SHAD. 329 
 
 GENUS ALOSA. Tongue and roof of the mouth desti- 
 tute of teeth ; upper jaw with a deep notch in the centre. 
 
 ALOSA FINTA.* THE TWAITE SHAD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Distinct teeth in the upper jaw ; a row of 
 dark spots along each side of the body. 
 
 Description. From a specimen thirteen inches and a half long. 
 The length of the head, that is, from the tip of the upper jaw to the 
 posterior margin of the gill-cover, exactly one-fifth the whole length 
 of the fish, caudal fin included ; depth of the body under the dorsal, 
 rather more than the length of the head ; operculum rounded at its 
 upper border, and nearly straight at its lower and posterior margin ; 
 basal line rather oblique, directing towards the last ray of the dorsal ; 
 suboperculum rather broad, slightly angular about the middle of the 
 posterior border. Colour of the back dusky blue ; sides lighter, with 
 green reflections ; belly silvery- white ;' ventral and anal fins white ; 
 pectorals, dorsal, and caudal fins, dusky, the two latter minutely 
 spotted with dark brown ; upper part of the gill-covers and head 
 with beautiful yellowish-green reflections. Base of the first ray of 
 the dorsal fin exactly half-way between the point of the upper jaw 
 and the last ray of the anal fin ; the fourth and fifth rays the longest, 
 equalling the length of the base of the fin ; the last ray one-half the 
 length of the seventh, and rather longer than the two preceding ones, 
 giving the fin at the free margin a slight concave appearance ; all 
 the rays branched, except the first three or four, which are simple ; 
 caudal fin deeply forked, the longest ray equal to the length of the 
 head ; rays of the anal fin very short, the second and third the long- 
 est, considerably less than than one-half the length of the base of the 
 fin, the last two or three rays longer than the centre ones ; ventrals 
 commencing in a line under the sixth ray of the dorsal ; pectorals 
 rather small, and acutely pointed, the second ray the longest, equal 
 to the length of the base of the dorsal fin ; under jaw the longest ; 
 upper jaw with a deep notch in the centre ; end of the maxillary ex- 
 tending back as far as in a line with the posterior margin of the or- 
 bit. Eyes rather small, the diameter of which is rather more than one- 
 fifth the length of the head ; teeth very small, placed on the margin 
 of the upper jaw only ; none on the vomer, palatines, or tongue ; 
 lower margin of the maxillaries slightly roughened, but not a vestige 
 of a tooth on the lower jaw in the specimens now before me ; scales 
 large, very deciduous, extending half-way down the caudal rays ; 
 
 * Alosafinta, Cuv., Yarr. Clupea alosa, Linn., Penn., Don., Jen. Shad, 
 Twaite Shad. 
 
330 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 lateral line not perceptible ; a row of six round dark spots along 
 each side, in a line with the upper part of the gill-covers ; belly 
 strongly serrated, with forty strong, sharp, teeth, extending from the 
 interoperculum to the vent ; each ventral fin with an axillary scale, 
 more than half as long as the fin itself. (Mr Yarrell says the ventral 
 fins are without axillary scales.) Number of fin rays 
 D. 19 ; P. 16 ; V. 9 ; A. 21 ; C. 19; " Vert. 55." 
 
 Shads inhabit the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean, 
 and Caspian Seas. They form numerous troops in spring, 
 ascend the large rivers to deposit their spawn, and, after 
 this law of nature is accomplished, they return about 
 the end of July again to the sea. The Severn is one 
 of the rivers that affords this fish in great plenty ; it 
 makes its first appearance there in May, and in some sea- 
 sons much earlier. It is common in the Thames, in the 
 months of June and July, when great numbers are taken 
 by the fishermen below Greenwich. Tt is in general con- 
 sidered a coarse, dry, and insipid fish. On the coast of 
 Scotland, the Twaite shad receives the name of Rock Her- 
 ring. We observe this fish enter the Firth of Forth in to- 
 lerable abundance towards the end of July, and dozens are 
 then taken in the salmon-nets, at almost every tide ; but 
 after August we lose sight of them until the following sea- 
 son. These fish are occasionally salted and dried, and 
 used as food when nothing better can be obtained. They 
 are very seldom brought to market. 
 
 ALOSA COMMUNIS.* THE ALLICE SHAD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Jaws without teeth ; sides without spots ; a 
 large dusky spot behind the upper part of the operculum. 
 
 Description. From a specimen eighteen inches in length. Head 
 one-fifth the whole length of the fish, caudal fin included ; great- 
 est depth of the body anterior to the dorsal fin, rather more than 
 equalling the length of the head. Colour of the back and sides, 
 
 * Alosa communisy Cuv., Yaw. Clupea Alosa, Jen. 
 
THE ALLICE SHAD. 331 
 
 bluish-grey : belly silvery- white ; dorsal and caudal fins dusky ; ven- 
 trals, anal, and pectorals, pure white ; gill-covers with yellowish- 
 green reflections when viewed in a particular light. First ray of the 
 dorsal fin commencing exactly half-way between the point of the 
 upper jaw and the base of the last ray of the anal fin, the third and 
 fourth rays the longest, not quite as long as the base of the fin, the 
 third ray when folded down reaches to the base of the last ray, the 
 three first rays simple, all the rest branched, the last ray exactly half 
 the length of the eighth ; the summit of the fin slightly concave. 
 Caudal fin very much forked ; base of the anal fin about equal in 
 length to that of the dorsal ; all the rays short, the third the longest, 
 as long as the twelfth ray of the dorsal, the middle rays shorter than 
 the lateral ones. Origin of the ventrals placed under the fifth ray 
 of the dorsal ; pectorals pointed, the second ray the longest, equal 
 to the length of the base of the dorsal fin. Operculum rounded at 
 its upper margin, and nearly straight at its posterior border ; sub- 
 operculum broad and angular. Eye rather small, the diameter one- 
 fifth the length of the head ; under jaw the longest, no teeth in either 
 jaw, on the vomer, tongue, or palatines. Scales large, thin, and 
 very deciduous, extending half-way down the caudal rays ; ventral 
 fin with a long axillary scale ; lateral line very indistinct ; belly 
 strongly serrated, with a number of strong teeth, extending from 
 under the interoperculum to the anal aperture ; head flattened on its 
 upper surface ; a large dusky spot behind the upper margin of each 
 gill-cover ; operculum roughened with a number of raised lines 
 placed obliquely ; suboperculum perfectly smooth. Number of fin 
 rays 
 'D. 19; V. 9; P. 15 ; A. 23; C. 19. 
 
 This species of Shad is noticed by Pennant as sometimes 
 to be taken the weight of eight pounds, but its more ge- 
 neral size is from four to five pounds, whereas the Twaite 
 shad is never found to exceed the weight of two pounds. 
 The Allice Shad is said to be found in the Severn in greater 
 numbers and in higher perfection than in any other river 
 in Great Britain, and is esteemed a very delicate fish about 
 the time of its first appearance, especially in that part of 
 the river that flows by Gloucester, where they are taken 
 by nets and usually sold dearer than salmon. Dr Hastings 
 says, " they generally make their appearance there in May, 
 though sometimes in April. This, however, depends a 
 
332 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 good deal upon the quality of the water ; if it is clear, they 
 ascend early in spring, but if there happens to be a flood, 
 they wait till the waters are restored to their former purity ; 
 and if they meet with a flood in their progress upwards, they 
 immediately return and keep below Gloucester." In the 
 Thames this fish is seldom met with ; and seems to be of 
 equally rare occurrence in the Firth of Forth. Two speci- 
 mens only have fallen under my 'notice, one of which was 
 taken in the salmon nets in the month of June at Mussel- 
 burgh, and the other was captured in a net along with her- 
 rings, at the mouth of the Firth, in the early part of Janu- 
 ary. It is frequently reported that herrings of large size, 
 measuring from twenty to twenty-four inches in length, are 
 occasionally taken off the Dunbar and Berwickshire coasts, 
 and which the fishermen name the Queen Herrings, but it 
 is probable that the fish they allude to is the Allice Shad. 
 Mr Yarrell states, that " both species of shads have great 
 resemblance, except in size, to the herrings, and have been 
 frequently called the mother of herrings. The large herrings 
 of two feet in length, so called by Anderson and others, 
 and said to occur in the Northern Seas, and among our 
 Northern Islands, are no doubt to be considered as refer- 
 ring to our shads."" 
 
 The principal food of the shad seems to be small fishes 
 such as sprats, whitebait, and young of the herring. 
 
 The Allice Shad is distinguished from the Twaite Shad, 
 by having a large dusky spot placed behind the upper part 
 of each gill-cover, and by the sides being without spots, and 
 the jaws without teeth. The Twaite shad has from four 
 to seven large dark spots on each side of the body, ar- 
 ranged in a row parallel to the lateral, line, and a number 
 of minute teeth on the anterior margin of the upper jaw. 
 
THE COMMON COD. 333 
 
 II. SUBBRACHIALES. 
 
 Ventral fins placed beneath the pectorals or nearly so. 
 
 FAMILY V. GADIDJS. Eyes placed one on each side 
 of the head ; ventrals separate, jugular ; jaws and front of 
 the vomer armed with teeth.* 
 
 GENUS -{AJtUffz Dorsal fins three ; one barbule at the 
 extremity of the lower jaw. 
 
 MORRHUA VULGARIS.f- - THE COMMON COD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Lower half of the lateral line white ; first anal 
 fin commencing under the second dorsal. 
 
 Description. Common size from a foot and a half to two feet in 
 length ; said sometimes to reach five, and to weigh seventy-eight 
 pounds. Head in large specimens,, rather more than one-fourth of 
 the entire length ; depth of the body under the first dorsal frequently 
 more than equal the length of the head. Colours liable to much va- 
 riation ; the most common appearance, back and sides yellowish-grey 
 spotted with greenish-ash ; lower half of the lateral line broad and 
 white ; all the fins dusky ; belly pure white. First dorsal fin com- 
 mencing in a vertical line a little behind the base of the pectorals ; 
 its form somewhat triangular ; fourth ray the longest, not quite as 
 long as the base of the fin; the rest rapidly diminishing in height; 
 the last very short, scarcely perceptible. Second dorsal commencing 
 at a short interval from the termination of the first ; the fourth ray 
 the longest, rather less than half the length of the base of the fin, and 
 equalling the length of the seventh ray of the first dorsal ; the re- 
 maining rays gradually diminishing, the last three more suddenly so. 
 Third dorsal arises at a short distance from the last ray of the second 
 dorsal, and ends near the short rays of the caudal; fifth ray the longest, 
 as long as, from the base of the first ray, to that of the eleventh of the 
 same fin ; the last three rays very short, diminishing rapidly from the 
 one preceding. Caudal fin nearly even at the end ; last anal fin cor- 
 responding to the last dorsal, and placed precisely under it ; first 
 
 * Cuvier, says, *' the teeth in this family are card-like and the caeca 
 are numerous." But these characters do not seem to hold good throughout 
 the family, and, therefore, they are here omitted, the teeth in the hake are 
 very long ; and the tadpole-fish has no caeca. 
 
 f Morrhua vulgaris, Cuv., Yarr. Gadus Morrhua Linn., Jen. 
 
334 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 anal fin commencing in a line under the fifth ray of the second dor- 
 sal, and terminating under the last ray of the same fin ; the fifth ray 
 the longest, being as long as the seventh ray of the first dorsal. Ven- 
 trals rather small and pointed, commencing a little in advance of the 
 base of the pectorals ; the second ray much the longest ; pectorals 
 nearly as long as the base of the first dorsal, and rounded at the in- 
 ferior margin; the fourth ray the longest; both jaws, as well as the 
 anterior part of the vomer, furnished with small sharp teeth, arranged 
 in several rows ; under jaw rather the shortest, with a barbule placed 
 on the under surface of the anterior extremity. Gape large ; the 
 maxillary extending back as far as in a line with the middle of the 
 eye ; gill-opening large ; branchial rays seven ; lateral line commen- 
 cing at the upper part of the operculum, taking a gentle curve pa- 
 rallel to the line of the back as far as the commencement of the se- 
 cond dorsal fin, where it runs for a short distance in an oblique di- 
 rection as far as the tenth ray of the first anal, from thence proceed- 
 ing straight to the base of the middle caudal ray. Scales small and 
 adherent ; csecal appendages numerous. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 13; 2dl9; 3d 18; P. 20 ; V. 6 ; 1st A. 19; 2d 16; C.28; 
 " Vert. 50." 
 
 The Cod is an inhabitant of cold or temperate climates. 
 It is particularly met with in that part of the northern At- 
 lantic comprehended between the fortieth and sixty-sixth 
 degree of latitude. It does not exist in the Mediterranean 
 or other interior seas whose entrance is nearer to the equator 
 than the fortieth degree. It appears to be almost entirely 
 confined to the northern parts of the world. Few, however, 
 are taken north of Iceland, but on the south and west coasts 
 they abound, and they are found to swarm on the coast of 
 Norway, and off the Orkneys and Western Isles, after 
 which they decrease in numbers in proportion as we ad- 
 vance towards the south. Cod are never found but in salt 
 water, and remain habitually in the depth of the sea. They 
 never ascend rivers, or even, generally, approach the shores 
 except for the purpose of depositing their spawn. 
 
 The Cod is very voracious, feeds on small fish of all 
 kinds, more especially on herrings, and sprats, as well as 
 
THE COMMON COD. 335 
 
 on mollusca, worms, and Crustacea. Mr Couch has taken 
 thirty-five crabs, none less than the size of a half-crown 
 piece, from the stomach of one Cod. Its digestive powers 
 are said to be very great, and under the influence of the gas- 
 tric juice, the shell of the crab or lobster grows red, just as 
 it does when under the action of boiling water, and that 
 even before the flesh is one-quarter digested. The stomach 
 of the Cod often affords a rich harvest to the naturalist. 
 
 In the Firth of Forth, Cod are taken all the year through, 
 sometimes in tolerable numbers, from whence the Edinburgh 
 market is supplied ; they are in best season in the month of 
 February, and remain in excellent condition till the end of 
 April. They begin to deposit their spawn in the months of 
 May and June, when they frequently ascend the Firth as far 
 as Alloa, and are taken on their return in the salmon-nets in a 
 very poor and lean condition. The spawn that is thus an- 
 nually shed by one parent fish it is said, can give birth to nine 
 millions three hundred and eighty-four thousand of young. 
 The fry are observed in the month of August swimming 
 about in company with sprats, whitebait, and herrings, from 
 two to three inches in length, beautifully freckled with 
 light brown and yellow. The growth of the Cod fish is said 
 to be remarkably rapid, though the degrees of its progres- 
 sion are not ascertained. From the month of July to the end 
 of October the large Cod are observed to be long and thin, 
 particularly those that are captured on sandy banks or in 
 shallow water, being then of very light colour, with the 
 muscle soft, unwholesome, and insipid to the taste ; the fish 
 not having had time sufficient to recruit themselves after 
 the fatigue of spawning. The best Cod are found in deep 
 and rocky situations in the neighbourhood of the Isle of 
 May and all around the mouth of the Firth. The dark 
 variety of Cod generally known by the name of Rock or 
 Red Cod, is considered as the firmest and sweetest fish. It 
 
336 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH 
 
 is found in very deep water, and feeds almost entirely on 
 young Lobsters and Star-fish. 
 
 Cod are observed to thrive better while under confinement 
 than most of the species of the same family, and, in some 
 instances, they are found improved by the change. Elias 
 Cathcart, Esq. of St Margaret's, near North Queensferry, 
 has kept for some time a number of marine fishes in a salt- 
 water pond of about two hundred feet in length, and five 
 fathoms deep, in which the tide flows and ebbs twice in the 
 day. The principal fishes preserved are cod, haddock, 
 whiting, flounders, and skate, which are retained pri- 
 soners by means of an iron grating, placed at that part of 
 the pond which communicates with the Firth. They are 
 fed by the keeper, with sprats, young herrings, and other 
 small fishes, besides, occasionally with the intestines of sheep, 
 which the cod are observed to devour with avidity. All 
 the fish appear to thrive well, especially the cod, which are 
 found to be firmer in the flesh and thicker across the shoul- 
 ders than those obtained from the Firth of Forth. 
 
 The Cod when in season, is white, firm, and of most ex- 
 cellent flavour. Its flesh is capable of being preserved in 
 a state fit for eating much longer than that of most other 
 species of this class. " Almost all parts of the Cod are 
 adapted for the nourishment of man and animals, or for some 
 other purposes of domestic economy. The tongue, for in- 
 stance, whether fresh or salted is a great delicacy ; the gills 
 are carefully preserved to be employed as baits in fishing ; 
 the liver which is large, and good for eating, also furnishes 
 an enormous quantity of oil, which is an excellent substi- 
 tute for that of the whale, and applicable to all the same 
 purposes ; the swimming bladder furnishes an isinglass not 
 far inferior to that yielded by the sturgeon, the Iceland 
 fishermen prepare large quantities of it, which in England 
 sells for a high price ; the head in the places where the 
 
THE HADDOCK. 337 
 
 cod is taken, supplies the fishermen and their families with 
 food. The Norwegians give it with marine plants to their 
 cows, for the purpose of producing a greater proportion of 
 milk. The vertebrae, the ribs, and the bones in general are 
 given to their cattle by the Icelanders. The lens are made 
 into necklaces for children, and the ear-bones are often 
 found in the possession of the curious. Even their intes- 
 tines and their eggs contribute to the luxury of the table."* 
 Its fishing is consequently of great importance, as afford- 
 ing subsistence and occupation to a numerous population. 
 
 The Cod is easily distinguished from other British fishes 
 by having three dorsal fins, the lower half of the lateral 
 line white, and a barbule on the lower jaw. Mr Jenyns, 
 not without good reason, has very justly omitted the Ga- 
 dus Callarias of Linnaeus as a British species. 
 
 MORRHUA jEGLEFINUS. THE HADDOCK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Lateral line black ; a large black spot on each 
 side under the first dorsal fin ; first anal fin commencing under the 
 second dorsal. 
 
 Description. Head, of a specimen two feet in length, one-fourth 
 the whole length of the fish ; depth of the body rather less than the 
 length of the head. Colour of the back dusky brown ; belly dirty 
 white; all the fins dusky, the dorsal, caudal, and pectorals rather 
 more so ; lateral line black ; between the base of the first dorsal and 
 pectoral fins, a large dark spot, varying in size and intensity of co- 
 lour in different individuals ; pupil large of a deep blue. First dorsal 
 fin somewhat of a triangular form, slightly curved at the summit, com- 
 mencing in a line over the base of the pectorals ; second ray the longest, 
 reaching, when folded down, to the base of the third ray of the se- 
 cond dorsal fin, the fifth ray as long as the base of the fin, the re- 
 maining rays rapidly decreasing in height, the last very small. Se- 
 cond dorsal fin commencing at a short interval from the termination of 
 the first, the fourth ray the longest, about half the length of the base of 
 the fin, the rest of the rays gradually decreasing ; the last ray very short. 
 
 * Griffith, Animal Kingdom. 
 VOL. VII. Y 
 
338 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 Third dorsal fin arising close behind the second, the fifth ray the long- 
 est, equalling the length of the eighth ray of the first dorsal, the sixth 
 ray about half the length of the base of the fin, the rest of the rays gra- 
 dually diminishing to the last but three, from thence more rapidly. 
 Caudal fin slightly forked, the middle ray about one-half the length of 
 the longest ray of the same fin. First anal fin commencing in a line 
 under the fourth ray of the second dorsal, and ending a little behind 
 the last ray of the same fin, the sixth ray the longest, about half as 
 long as the base of the fin, the rest of the rays gradually decreasing, 
 the last very short. Second anal corresponding in size to the third 
 dorsal, and placed rather nearer the tail. Under jaw the shortest ; 
 both jaws armed with numerous small sharp teeth, placed in many 
 rows, as well as the front of the vomer. Eyes large ; gill-cover end- 
 ing in a flattened point behind ; branchial rays seven ; under jaw fur- 
 nished with a small conical barbule placed on the under and ante- 
 rior part ; lateral line commencing over the operculum, taking a 
 gentle curve half-way down the side, from thence running straight 
 to the base of the middle caudal ray ; scales small and very ad- 
 herent, pectorals pointed, fourth ray the longest ; origin of the ven- 
 trals placed in advance of the base of the pectorals, the third and 
 fourth rays the longest, being as long as the seventh ray of the first 
 dorsal ; csecal appendages numerous. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 16; 2d D. 21 ; 3d D. 19 ; P. 20; V. 6; 1st A. 24 ; 2d A. 22; 
 C. 25. " Vert. 54." 
 
 The Haddock, like the Cod, is a northern fish, yet it has 
 not been observed in the Baltic, or so far south as the 
 Mediterranean. It is taken all round the British coasts, 
 but in much greater numbers on the eastern shores than 
 elsewhere. Pennant states that shoals of Haddocks appear 
 periodically on the Yorkshire coast, and about the 10th of 
 December, on their first arrival, they form a bank or shoal 
 three miles in breadth, and eighty miles in length, and that, 
 on these occasions, they are so numerous that three fisher- 
 men within the space of a mile may fill their boats twice 
 in a day. In stormy weather the haddock refuses every 
 kind of bait, and seeks refuge among marine plants in the 
 deepest parts of the ocean, where it remains until the vio- 
 lence of the elements is somewhat subdued. 
 
THE HADDOCK. 339 
 
 Some years ago haddocks were remarkably plentiful in 
 the Firth of Forth, and found almost in every part of it, 
 but of late, they have very much decreased both in size 
 and number, and are now confined to the bay near Aber- 
 lady and mouth of the Firth. The Edinburgh market is 
 well supplied with these fish all the year through, but in 
 the months of December and January they are more nu- 
 merous, and in much better condition than at any other period 
 of the year. They shed their spawn in the early part of 
 March, and in the months of October and November the 
 young are taken from four to six inches in length, when 
 they are considered remarkably good. Haddocks are oc- 
 casionally taken two feet and a half in length, but one of 
 eighteen inches is reckoned more preferable for the table. 
 These fish are preserved for use in a variety of different 
 ways, and form the principal food of many of the lower 
 inhabitants of Edinburgh. When smoked in a peculiar 
 manner, they are known by the name finnan haddies, which 
 are sold in small bundles and much used for the table. 
 When simply dried they are called speldrings, and are con- 
 sumed in a raw or uncooked state, though inferior to such 
 as are preserved by the former mode. 
 
 The quality of the flesh of the haddock varies according 
 to the place in which these fish are found, their size, their 
 age, their sex, and the period of the year, It is in gene- 
 ral white, firm, wholesome, and well flavoured, but in every 
 respect inferior to the cod. It feeds principally on crus- 
 tacea. 
 
 The Haddock is easily distinguished from the cod at all 
 times, by having a large black spot on each side of the 
 body under the first dorsal fin. This singular spot tradi- 
 tion assigns to the impression of St Peter's finger and thumb, 
 when he took the tribute-money out of the mouth of a fish, 
 
340 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 which is supposed to have been the haddock ; but, unfortu- 
 nately for the legend, in the sea where that miracle was 
 performed the haddock does not exist. 
 
 MORRHUA LUSCA.* THE BlB. 
 
 Specific Characters. A dusky spot at the base of each pectoral 
 fin j first anal fin commencing under the middle of the first dorsal ; 
 scales larger. 
 
 Description. From a specimen sixteen inches in length. Head 
 one-fourth of the whole length, excluding the caudal fin ; depth of 
 the body compared to the whole length, caudal included, as one to 
 three and a half. Colour of the back dusky brown, inclining to yel- 
 low towards the sides ; belly dirty white ; all the fins dusky, becom- 
 ing lighter at the base ; caudal fin margined with black ; a dusky 
 spot at the upper part of the base of each pectoral ; lateral line about 
 the same shade as the body ; first and second rays of the ventrals 
 whitish ; eyes opaque. First dorsal fin commencing over the base 
 of the pectorals, and reaching when folded down to the base of the 
 fourth ray of the second dorsal, the first and second rays simple, the 
 rest branched, the third the longest, the remainder rapidly decreas- 
 ing in height, the sixth as long as the base of the fin, the last very 
 small, scarcely perceptible. Second dorsal commencing at a short 
 distance from the termination of the first; the two first rays simple, 
 the fifth the longest, less than half the length of the base of the fin, 
 the succeeding ones gradually decreasing, the last very short and fine. 
 Third dorsal fin commencing immediately behind the second, the 
 fifth ray the longest, the eighth half as long as the base of the fin, the 
 last scarcely perceptible ; caudal fin even at the end ; ventral fins 
 rather small, placed a little before the base of the pectorals, the first 
 two rays very much produced, the second rather the longest reach- 
 ing to the fourth ray of the anal ; pectorals when expanded some- 
 what of an oval form, the fourth ray the longest, equalling the length 
 of the first dorsal fin, all the rays branched except the first ; the 
 twelfth ray half the length of the third. First anal fin commencing in a 
 line under the middle of the first dorsal, and terminating under the first 
 ray of the third dorsal, the first ray very small, the succeeding ones 
 gradually increasing to about the fifteenth, the remainder gradually 
 decreasing, the last three rather more suddenly, the middle ray about 
 
 * Morrhua lusca, Yarr. Gadus luscus, Jen., Penn., Flem., Linn. Bib, 
 Pout, Whiting Pout, Blinds, Brassy. 
 
THE BIB. 341 
 
 one-fourth the length of the base of the fin. Second anal fin com- 
 mencing immediately behind the'first and terminating at a short dis- 
 tance from the caudal, corresponding in size and form with the third 
 dorsal, but placed rather farther back. Snout rounded and rather 
 obtuse ; upper jaw the longest ; maxillary extending back to be- 
 neath the middle of the orbit. Teeth in the lower jaw placed in one 
 row, rather long and sharp, slightly curved inwards ; those in the 
 upper jaw of a similar kind, rather more numerous, with a band of 
 smaller teeth behind ; eyes large, covered with a loose thick mem- 
 brane, giving a prominent appearance ; operculum of a triangular 
 form, ending in a flattened point over the base of the pectorals ; gill- 
 opening large ; branchial rays seven ; barbule at the extremity of the 
 lower jaw placed underneath, about an inch in length, equalling the 
 diameter of the orbit ; snout and cheeks of a metallic-grey appear- 
 ance. Scales in the middle of the body large and closely imbricated ; 
 those which cover a great portion of the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins 
 are small, of an oval form, and very deciduous. Lateral line com- 
 mencing at the upper part of the operculum, taking a sudden bend 
 under the anterior portion of the second dorsal, from thence passing 
 straight to the base of the middle caudal ray. Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 13; 2d D. 24; 3d D. 17; P. 15; V. 6; 1st A. 31; 2d A. 
 18 ; C. 25. 
 
 The Bib is readily distinguished from the haddock and the 
 cod, by the great depth of the body compared to the length ; 
 in the length of the base of the first anal fin, which com- 
 mences under the middle of the first dorsal, and frequently 
 rather more in advance ; whereas in the haddock and cod 
 this fin commences under the third or fourth ray of the se- 
 cond dorsal. It very much resembles the Morrhua minuta 
 or Power Cod, particularly when from five to six inches in 
 length ; but the latter fish is rather longer in proportion to 
 its depth ; the anal fin is shorter with not more than twenty- 
 six or twenty-seven rays, and commencing in a line behind 
 the first dorsal. The Morrhua barbata, Gadus barbatus, 
 and Asellus barbatus of authors are now considered by Mr 
 Yarrell and Mr Jenyns as mere synonyms for the Morrhua 
 lusca or Bib. 
 
342 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 This fish, the Brassy of Scotland, I have frequently found 
 to exceed the length of seventeen inches, but the more 
 common size is about a foot. It is taken on the east and 
 west coasts of Scotland, on the coasts of Norway and 
 Sweden, and in almost every part of the English shores, par- 
 ticularly in those places where they are deep and rocky. Se- 
 veral are brought to the Edinburgh market in the months 
 of December, January, and February, when they are con- 
 sidered best for the table. They are out of condition in 
 April, May, and June. In taste they are said to resemble 
 the whiting, but are coarser in the flesh, and considered not 
 so easy of digestion. The brassy is taken in the Firth 
 of Forth principally near the Isle of May, with long lines 
 set for cod and baited with mussels. It is seldom found as 
 high up the Firth as Inchcolm, but when taken beyond 
 that point, it is generally thin and ill flavoured, not meet- 
 ing with that abundance and variety of food which it finds 
 in deeper and more rocky situations. 
 
 GENUS MERLANGUS. Dorsal fins three; lower jaw 
 without a barbule. 
 
 MERLANGUS VULGARIS.* THE WHITING. 
 
 Specific Characters. Under jaw shortest ; a black spot at the base 
 of the first ray of the pectorals ; caudal fin even at the end. 
 
 Description. From a large specimen twenty- three inches in length. 
 Head about one-fourth of the whole length ; depth of the body ra- 
 ther less than the length of the head, or one-fifth the whole length 
 of the fish. Colour of the back and sides reddish-brown, frequently 
 with stripes of yellow ; belly white ; dorsal fins bluish, slightly dusky ; 
 anal fins straw-colour, minutely freckled with pale brown ; caudal 
 darkish towards the end ; a large dark spot at the base of the first ray 
 of the pectorals ; lateral line rather darker than the body ; pupils dark 
 
 * Merlanpus vulgaris, Cuv., Yarr., Flem. Gadus Merlangus, Penn., 
 Linn., Don. 
 
THE WHITING. 343 
 
 blue. First dorsal lin somewhat of a triangular form, commencing a 
 little behind the base of the pectorals ; third and fourth rays the 
 longest, about equalling the base of the fin ; first ray spinous, stouter 
 than the rest ; the last very short and slender. Second dorsal com- 
 mencing at a short interval from the termination of the first ; fourth 
 and fifth rays the longest, about one-third the length of the base of 
 the fin ; the first stout and spinous ; the last very short and slender, 
 and readily overlooked. Third dorsal longer than the first and ra- < 
 ther shorter than the second, commencing close behind the termina- 
 tion of the latter, and ending at a short distance from the base of the 
 short caudal rays ; fourth and fifth rays the longest, about half the 
 length of the base of the fin ; the first stout and spiny ; the rest soft 
 and flexible ; the last but three half the length of the seventh ; pec- 
 torals moderate ; the fifth ray the longest, about equalling the base 
 of the first dorsal fin ; all the rays soft and flexible except the two 
 first which are simple ; the fourteenth ray one-half the length of the 
 fifth ; first anal fin very long, commencing in a line under the last 
 ray but five of the first dorsal, and terminating in a line under the 
 first ray of the third dorsal ; the first ray very short ; the seven suc- 
 ceeding ones gradually increasing in length ; the eighth one-fifth the 
 length of the base of the fin ; the following twelve or fourteen of 
 equal length ; the remainder gradually diminishing ; the last very 
 short ; second anal fin commencing close behind the termination of 
 the first, corresponding in shape and size to the third dorsal, but 
 placed rather nearer the tail ; caudal fin even at the end ; ventrals 
 small, situated before the pectorals ; second ray the longest. Under 
 jaw rather the shortest, armed with a row of sharp teeth, with a few 
 smaller ones at the base ; upper jaw with teeth of a similar kind, but 
 the smaller ones more numerous and placed m two or three rows ; 
 eyes round and moderate ; maxillary extending baekto beneath the 
 anterior part of the pupil ; gill-opening large ; branchial rays seven. 
 Lateral line commencing at the upper part of the operculum, taking 
 a slight bend under the anterior part of the second dorsal, from thence 
 passing straight to the middle ray of the tail. Scales on the back and 
 abdomen very small, those down the middle of the- body consider- 
 ably larger ; intervening membranes of the caudal fin covered with 
 minute scales which are scarcely perceptible except when in a dried 
 state ; caudal extremity of the body terminating in a point. Num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 13; 2d D.22; 3d D.20; P. 21; 1st A. 36; 2d A. 23; V.6; 
 C. 30;" Vert. 55." 
 
 The Whiting is distinguished from the cod, haddock, 
 
344 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 and brassy, by having no barbule on the chin. It is known 
 from the coalfish, the pollack, and green cod, by the un- 
 der jaw being rather the shortest ; in having a black spot at 
 the base of the first ray of the pectorals ; and in the caudal 
 fin being even at the end. 
 
 The Whiting is esteemed one of the most delicate and 
 wholesome fish we have, and is considered by many persons 
 to be superior in flavour to the haddock or cod, either in 
 the recent or salted state. It is universally distributed 
 throughout the British coasts, but is found in greater 
 abundance on the sandy than on the rocky parts, keeping 
 generally in large shoals a few miles from land. January 
 and February are the months in which this fish is found 
 most plentifully. It sheds its spawn in March when not 
 far from shore, and is then easily taken with the net. The 
 hook when baited with mussel it seizes with great avi- 
 dity, and in this manner numbers are taken and brought 
 to market, where they meet with a ready sale. In April, 
 May, and June, they are out of condition, and ought not 
 then to be made use of as an article of food, particularly 
 by invalids, with whom the flesh is apt to create nausea and 
 sickness ; but in December, January, and February, when 
 the Whiting is in the best condition, no fish agrees better 
 with weak stomachs, and is often retained when all other 
 food has been loathed and ejected. A Whiting about a foot 
 in length is considered the best size for the table, and when 
 boiled it proves the most wholesome. In the month of Au- 
 gust, young Whitings are seen from three to four inches in 
 length in pools left by the receding of the tide, in company 
 with podleys, young cod, and other small fishes. Their 
 food is principally mollusca and Crustacea. 
 
THE CODFISH. 345 
 
 MERLANGUS CARBONARIQS.* THE COALFISH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Under jaw longest ; caudal fin deeply forked ; 
 lateral line straight throughout. 
 
 Description. From a specimen a foot in length. Head one-fourth 
 the length of the body, caudal fin excluded ; depth rather less than 
 the length of the head. Colour of the back and sides dark grey ; 
 belly dirty white ; dorsal, caudal, and anal fins dusky and minutely 
 freckled , ventrals white. First dorsal fin of a triangular form, com- 
 mencing a little behind the base of the pectorals ; third and fourth 
 rays the longest, equalling the base of the fin ; the first ray spinous, 
 about half the length of the second ; the last very short. Second dor- 
 sal commencing at a short interval from the termination of the first ; 
 third and fourth rays the longest, about half as long as the base of the 
 fin ; the rest gradually decreasing in height ; the first ray simple, about 
 half the length of the second ; the remainder soft and flexible. Third 
 dorsal commencing at a short distance from the last, and leaving a 
 wide space between its termination and the short caudal rays ; the 
 fifth ray the longest ; the rest gradually decreasing in height ; the 
 last about half as long as the fourth ; the ninth about one-third the 
 length of the base of the fin ; caudal deeply forked, the middle ray 
 not half the length of the longest ray of the same fin. Pectorals 
 pointed, the fourth and fifth rays the longest, more than equalling 
 the length of the first dorsal fin ; ventrals small, placed in advance of 
 the base of the pectorals. First anal fin commencing in a line under 
 the interval between the two first dorsals, and terminating rather be- 
 hind the last ray of the second dorsal ; the fifth ray the longest, about 
 one-third the length of the base of the fin ; the remainder gradually 
 decreasing in height ; second anal corresponding with the third dor- 
 sal, but terminating rather nearer to the caudal. Teeth small and 
 fine, one or two rows placed in the lower jaw and three or four rows 
 in the upper jaw, and a few along the vomer ; under jaw the longest ; 
 maxillary extending back to beneath the anterior margin of the or- 
 bit. Lateral line commencing at the upper part of the operculum 
 and taking a straight course to the base of the tail ; scales small and 
 adherent, those covering the caudal fin very minute and of an elon- 
 gated form. Number of fin rays 
 
 ' 1st D. 12 ; 2d D. 18 ; 3dD. 20 ; 1st A. 24 : 2d A. 22; P. 19 ; V. 6 ; 
 C. 32. 
 
 * Merlangus carbonarius, Yarr., Jen., Cuv., Flem. Gadus carbonarius, 
 Linn., Penri., Don. Coaljish, Seithe, Sillock, Grey-Lord, Black- Pollack. 
 Rauning Pollack* Cornwall. 
 
346 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 This fish varies considerably in colour according to its 
 age. When young, about three inches in length, it is of a 
 light grey on the back, with the ventral and anal fins mi- 
 nutely spotted with dark brown ; when it increases to four 
 inches, it is of a beautiful deep green on the back, with the 
 sides of a lighter tinge, the fins shaded with orange and 
 closely freckled with brown ; when it becomes a foot in 
 length the back is dark grey ; and as the fish increases in 
 size, the back and sides become darker, and at length as- 
 sume a deep black, with the belly of a dirty white. 
 
 The Coalfish very much resembles the pollack in appear- 
 ance, particularly when young, It is distinguished from it, 
 however, at all ages, by having the lateral line straight 
 throughout its course, and the middle portion of it when 
 full grown, broad and whitish ; whereas the lateral line 
 in the pollack takes a very perceptible bend under the ter- 
 mination of the first dorsal, and never assumes a white ap- 
 pearance. The Coalfish, when from four to five inches in 
 length, from the great resemblance it bears in colour to the 
 Green Cod, has been occasionally confounded with it. The 
 length of the under jaw, however, compared with the up- 
 per, will at all times distinguish them. 
 
 In all the northern seas and in the Baltic, the Coalfish is 
 said to abound ; nor does it appear to lessen materially in 
 number as we proceed southwards, since, on the coast of 
 Cornwall, four men with two boats and lines have been 
 known to capture twenty-four hundredweight in a very 
 few hours. The young of these fish, known by the name 
 of podleys, are very common in the Firth of Forth in the 
 months of August and September, when they are sent to 
 market in great numbers. The larger individuals seem 
 to leave the Firth soon after they have spawned, and do 
 not reappear until the following spring. In the Orkneys 
 
THE POLLACK. 347 
 
 they are said to form the great support of the poor. 
 They inhabit deep and rocky situations, and are very vo- 
 racious ; they take a baited hook or an artificial fly freely, 
 and afford excellent diversion to the angler. 
 
 The growth of these fish in the early part of their exis- 
 tence, appears to be rapid. In the early part of spring the 
 spawn is deposited, and the fry are seen in June about two 
 inches in length ; in August they are four inches ; in Sep- 
 tember five, when they are considered a delicious fish for 
 the table ; but as they grow older they get coarser, and are 
 less in demand. They are frequently taken the length of 
 three feet. 
 
 MERLANGUS POLLACHIUS.* The POLLACK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Under jaw the longest ; lateral line curved ; 
 caudal fin slightly concave. 
 
 Description. From a specimen two feet ten inches in length. Head 
 about one-fourth of the whole length, caudal included. Depth of the 
 body less than the length of the head. Colour of the back and sides 
 dusky green ; belly dirty white ; all the fins dusky brown. First dor- 
 sal fin commencing in a line over the middle of the pectorals ; first 
 two rays simple, the rest branched ; the third and fourth the longest, 
 equalling the length of the base of the fin ; the remainder of the rays 
 rapidly decreasing in height, the last very short. Second dorsal com- 
 mencing at a short distance from the termination of the first ; first 
 two rays simple and stout; the rest soft and flexible; the third the 
 longest, equalling in length the fifth ray of the first dorsal ; the re- 
 mainder gradually diminishing ; the last very short ; the sixth about 
 one third the length of the base of the fin. Third dorsal commencing 
 at a short interval from the last, and ending not far from the short la- 
 teral rays of the caudal ; the fifth ray longest, about half the length 
 of the base of the fin ; the rest of the rays gradually decreasing ; the 
 last very short ; caudal fin slightly concave at the extremity ; pec- 
 torals pointed ; the fourth ray the longest, equalling the length of the 
 base of the third dorsal ; ventrals in advance of the base of the pec- 
 torals ; the longest ray about the length of the eighth ray of the first 
 dorsal. First anal fin commencing in a line under the posterior por- 
 
 * Merlanffus pollachius, Yarr., Flem., Jen, Gadus Pollachius Linn., 
 Penn., Don.' Pollack, Whiting, Pollack, Lythe. 
 
348 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 tion of the first dorsal, and terminating rather behind the last ray of 
 the second dorsal; the seventh ray rather the longest; the remainder 
 gradually decreasing. Second anal corresponding to the third dor- 
 sal. Teeth small and sharp, placed in one row in the lower jaw, and 
 in three or four rows in the upper jaw, and a few on the vomer ; un- 
 der jaw considerably the longest ; maxillary extending back to be- 
 neath the anterior margin of the orbit ; operculum ending in a strong 
 blunt point. Lateral line curved from its origin to the third or fourth 
 ray of the second dorsal, from thence running straight to the tail ; all 
 the fins completely covered with very small elongated scales which 
 are scarcely perceptible except when the fish is in a dried state ; 
 scales of the body small and rather deciduous. Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 11 ; 2d D. 19; 3d D. 17; 1st A. 27; 2d A. 17; P. 19; V. 6; 
 C. 30. 
 
 The Pollack is distinguished from the whiting and the 
 green cod, by the under jaw projecting beyond the upper. 
 It is known from coalfish in the lateral line not being 
 straight throughout, and in the caudal fin not being forked. 
 
 This species of fish, although frequent in the Orkneys 
 and Shetland Isles, and common along the eastern and 
 southern shores of England, is acknowledged to be a rare 
 visitant in the Firth of Forth, where seldom more than 
 half a dozen are taken during the season, and those gene- 
 rally of large size ; the young in this neighbourhood are 
 seldom seen. It is found on the west coasts of England 
 and Scotland, and along the shores of Ireland in tolerable 
 numbers, but becomes less frequent as we approach the 
 Northern Seas. The flesh as food is remarkably good, par- 
 ticularly during the winter months, and is considered but 
 little inferior in quality to that of the whiting, being white, 
 solid, and easy of digestion. It spawns in February, after 
 which it remains out of condition till May. The Pollack 
 does not seem choice as to what it feeds on, and is easily 
 taken with a baited line. It inhabits deep and rocky situa- 
 tions, and seldom wanders far from land. 
 
THE GREEN COD. 349 
 
 MERLANGUS VIRENS.* THE GREEN COD. 
 
 Specific Characters. Jaws of equal length ; caudal fin deeply 
 forked. 
 
 Description. From a specimen ten inches in length. Head about 
 one-fourth of the whole length, caudal included ; depth of the body 
 rather less than the length of the head. Colour of the back and sides 
 of a light glossy green; the belly silvery -white; dorsal, caudal, and 
 anal fins, dusky green, minutely freckled with dark spots ; ventrals 
 pure white ; sides irregularly marked with a number of small dark 
 blue spots. First dorsal fin of a triangular form commencing in a 
 line over the middle of the pectorals ; the fourth ray the longest, 
 equalling the length of the base of the fin, the remaining rays rapid- 
 ly decreasing, the last very short; second dorsal commencing a 
 little behind the termination of the first, the fourth ray the longest, 
 the rest gradually decreasing, the last very short, scarce perceptible, 
 the sixth about one-third the length of the base of the fin ; third dor- 
 sal arising at a short interval behind the last, leaving a space between 
 its termination and the caudal fin, the fourth ray the longest, about 
 half the length of the base of the fin, the rest gradually decreasing, 
 the last very small ; caudal deeply forked, the middle ray about half 
 the length of the longest ray of the same fin ; ventrals small, about 
 half the length of the pectorals ; third ray of the pectorals the longest, 
 equalling the length of the base of the third dorsal fin ; anal fin com- 
 mencing under the last rays of the first dorsal, and terminating rather 
 behind the last ray of the second dorsal; seventh ray the longest, about 
 one-third the length of the base of the fin, the remaining rays gra- 
 dually decreasing, the last very small ; second anal corresponding 
 with the third dorsal. Teeth small and sharp in both jaws, and a 
 few on the vomer ; jaws of equal length ; maxillary extending back 
 to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit ; eyes moderate ; bran- 
 chial rays seven. Scales of the body small, deciduous, and finely 
 striated, having somewhat of a granular appearance ; caudal fin 
 covered with minute scales of an elongated form ; lateral line straight 
 throughout its course. Number of fin rays 
 
 IstD. 12; 2d D. 20; 3d D. 19; P. 15; V. 6 ; 1st A. 27; 2d A. 
 19 ; C. 38. 
 
 The Green Cod very much resembles in appearance the 
 young of the coalfish, and has frequently been confounded 
 with it. It is, however, of a much lighter green on the 
 
 * Merlangus virens, Yarr., Jen., Flem. Gadus virens, Linn., Penn. 
 
350 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 back, and the jaws are of equal length ; in other respects 
 the two fish are very similar. The pollack, when young, 
 is likely to be mistaken for the Green Cod, but the former 
 has the under jaw considerably the longest, and the lateral 
 line taking a gentle curve over the pectorals. This fish 
 does not appear to be so common a species as is generally 
 supposed. It is said to inhabit the coast of Norway, and 
 is found as far south as on the shores of Cornwall. Dr 
 Fleming says " it is frequently taken in the Firth of Forth 
 during the summer ;" but of late, it has certainly become, 
 in that locality, a scarce fish, as I have not been able to ob- 
 tain above half a dozen examples for these last five years, and 
 thpse were taken with a hook, in the months of July and 
 August, off the pier-head at Newhaven. It feeds on small 
 marine animals, and its flesh is considered rather insipid. 
 
 GENUS MERLUCIUS. Dorsal fins two; no barbule 
 at the chin. 
 
 MERLUCIUS VULGARIS.* THE HAKE. 
 
 Specific Characters. Under jaw longest ; pectorals dark. 
 
 Description. From a specimen twenty-one inches in length. Head 
 one-fourth the length of the body, caudal fin not included; depth of the 
 body considerably less than the length of the head. Colour of the 
 back and sides dusky brown; belly and anal fin dirty white; dorsal 
 and ventrals dusky ; lower portion of the pectorals and caudal nearly 
 black. First dorsal fin of a triangular form,, commencing in a line 
 over the base of the pectorals ; the first ray simple, nearly as long 
 as the second, the third equalling the length of the base of the fin ; 
 the remaining ray rapidly decreasing, the last very short ; second 
 dorsal commencing a little behind the termination of the first, run- 
 ning down the back to within a short interval of the short lateral 
 rays of the caudal fin ; the first twenty-two rays of equal length, as 
 long as the sixth ray of the rst dorsal, the twenty-third to the twen- 
 ty-seventh rapidly increasing ; the remaining rays gradually diminish- 
 
 * Merlucius wulgaris, Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Flem. Gadus merlucius, Penn., 
 
 1)01). 
 
THE HAKE. 351 
 
 ing, the last very short. Pectorals about the length of the base of the 
 first ten rays of the second dorsal, the fourth, fifth, and sixth rays 
 nearly of equal length, giving a rounded form to the end of the fin ; 
 ventrals about as long as the pectorals, the fifth and sixth rays the 
 longest, the first much shorter than the last ; the base in advance of the 
 pectorals. Anal fin commencing in a line under the third ray of the 
 second dorsal, and terminating rather behind the last ray of the same 
 fin ; the first, second, and third rays gradually increasing in length, 
 the following eighteen about equal height ; the twenty-seventh con- 
 siderably the longest, the rest gradually diminishing, the last very 
 short. Caudal fin rather shorter than the pectorals, and slightly 
 concave at the end ; gape wide ; maxillary extending back to be- 
 neath the middle of the orbit ; under jaw the longest. Teeth long 
 and slender, one row in each jaw with some short ones at the base, 
 a few on the anterior part of the vomer ; operculum triangular, end- 
 ing in a blunt point over the base of the pectorals. Lateral line 
 taking a slight curve from its origin to beneath the third or fourth 
 ray of the second dorsal, from thence passing straight to the middle 
 ray of the caudal fin. Scales of the body moderate, fifteen in an ob- 
 lique row between the middle of the second dorsal fin and lateral 
 line ; head covered with small scales as well as the caudal fin. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 10 ; 2d D. 39 ; P. 14 ; V. 7 ; A. 37 ; C. 20. (Mr Yarrell 
 enumerates only twenty-nine rays in the second dorsal, and twenty- 
 one in the anal.) 
 
 The Hake is at once easily distinguished from all the 
 British species of this family, by having two dorsal fins 
 and by having no barbule on the chin. In Mr YarrelPs 
 work, from an error of the press, this fish is stated to have 
 a barbule on the chin. 
 
 The Hake is frequently taken the length of three and 
 sometimes four feet, and is at all times considered a coarse 
 fish. It is said to abound in the Atlantic Ocean, as well as 
 in the Mediterranean Sea. Numbers are taken on the south 
 and west coasts of England, and in the Bay of Galway on 
 the west of Ireland ; but it is seldom met with on the east 
 coast of Scotland. About two years ago, a single speci- 
 men was taken in a stake-net, near Musselburgh, arid sent 
 to the Edinburgh market, where it appeared to be unknown. 
 
352 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 The Hake is stated to be so plentiful on the Nymph Bank, 
 off the coast of Waterford, that six men with hooks and 
 lines have been known to take one thousand in the course 
 of a night, besides a number of other fish. It is a very 
 voracious feeder, and pursues herring, pilchards, and mac- 
 kerel, with great avidity. It spawns in the early part of 
 spring. Great numbers are sent to Spain in a dried and 
 salted state, but seldom made use of in England, except 
 by the poorer class of inhabitants, who find it a cheap ar- 
 ticle of food. 
 
 GENUS LOTA. Dorsal fins two ; a barbule on the chin. 
 
 LOTA MOLVA.* THE LING. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper jaw longest ; body dusky olive. 
 
 Description. From a small specimen fourteen inches in length. 
 Head one-fifth of the whole length, flattened on the summit ; depth 
 of the body considerably less than the length of the head. Colour 
 of the back and sides dusky olive ; belly silvery- white ; first dorsal 
 fin with a large dark spot on the posterior rays j lower portions of 
 the second dorsal and anal fins edged with white, with a dark band 
 beneath ; caudal fin barred with black, and margined with white ; 
 First dorsal fin short, about one -fifth the length of the second, com- 
 mencing over the posterior half of the pectorals ; the first three rays 
 gradually increasing, the rest of equal height, except the last three, 
 which decrease rapidly. . Second dorsal commencing at a short in- 
 terval from the termination of the first, and ending close to the short 
 lateral rays of the caudal fin ; the rays in the three anterior thirds of 
 the fin all of equal length, the succeeding ones gradually increasing ; 
 the last eight or nine rapidly decreasing, giving the end of the fin a 
 rounded form. Pectorals and ventrals of equal length, as long as 
 the base of the first dorsal ; anal fin commencing under the tenth or 
 eleventh ray of the second dorsal, and terminating in a line under the 
 last ray but four of the same fin, with which it corresponds in form ; 
 caudal fin rounded at the end. Jaws armed with a number of small, 
 
 * Lota molva, Yarr., Jen., Cuv. Gadus molva, Penn., Linn. Molva vul~ 
 garis, Flem. Asellus longus, Will. 
 
THE LING. 353 
 
 sharp, irregular teeth, as well as the anterior part of the vomer ; un- 
 der jaw rather the shortest ; gape wide ; maxillary extending back 
 to beneath the middle of the orbit ; operculum of a triangular form, 
 ending in a point behind. The head, body, dorsal, anal, and caudal fins 
 covered with small, elongated, adherent scales ; lateral line taking a 
 slight bend from its origin to beneath the commencement of the se- 
 cond dorsal fin, from thence running straight to the end of the tail ; 
 chin furnished with a long slender barbule about the length of the 
 dorsal rays. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 15; 2dD. 70; P. 17 ; V. 6 ; A. 60; C. 37. 
 
 The Ling is a fish well known both in the recent and 
 salted state, and is said to attain to the length of seven 
 feet ; but the more ordinary size is from three to four 
 feet. It is common along the English, Irish, and Scottish 
 coasts, and, like the Cod and Hake, forms a considerable 
 article of commerce. Large quantities are annually salted 
 and dried, the greater part of which is exported to Spain. 
 The liver of the Ling produces abundance of oil, which 
 has been used in certain rheumatic affections, with ap- 
 parent success. In the Firth of Forth, Ling are taken 
 with lines, principally about the Isle of May, where they 
 are found more plentiful than further up the estuary ; oc- 
 casionally small ones are met with near Inchkeith, but 
 scarcely ever above Queensferry. According to Pennant, 
 when a Ling is in season the liver is white, and abounds 
 with fine flavoured oil ; but as soon as it is out of season, 
 the liver assumes a reddish appearance, and affords no oil. 
 The same is the case with the Cod and many other fishes, 
 but in a less degree. In June, the Ling sheds its spawn, 
 after which it remains out of condition till August, when 
 it again becomes wholesome food. 
 
 GENUS MOT ELL A. Dorsal fins two, the first with slen- 
 der rays, scarcely perceptible ; the second long, continuing 
 VOL. VIT. z 
 
354 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 nearly to the base of the tail ; snout with barbules, one on 
 the chin. 
 
 MOTELLA VULGAEIS.* THE THREE-BEARDED ROCKLING. 
 
 Specific Character. Snout with two barbules, and one on the chin. 
 
 Description. From a specimen sixteen inches in length. Head about 
 one-fifth of the whole length ; depth of the body much less than the 
 length of the head. Colour of the head, back, and sides, yellowish- 
 brown, marked with a few large, irregular, dusky spots ; pectoral, 
 dorsal, and caudal fins, brown ; belly, ventral, and anal fins, pale 
 dusky-yellow ; irides bright yellow. First dorsal fin, about an inch 
 and a half in length, commencing over the base of the pectorals and 
 terminating in a line over the end of the fourth ray of the same fin ; 
 the first ray much the longest and stoutest, the rest very fine, scarcely 
 perceptible. Second dorsal arising at a short interval from the ter- 
 mination of the first, and ending close to the short lateral rays of the 
 caudal fin ; all the rays nearly of equal height, about half the length 
 of the middle ray of the pectoral fin. Anal commencing in a line 
 under the twelfth or thirteenth ray of the second dorsal, and termi- 
 nating in a line with the last ray of the same fin ; all the rays nearly 
 of equal height, but rather shorter than those of the second dorsal ; 
 caudal fin rounded at the end ; ventrals in advance of the base of the 
 pectorals ; the second ray greatly produced, being as long as the 
 base of the first fifteen rays of the anal ; pectorals rather longer than 
 the caudal, the three or four middle rays of equal length, giving a 
 rounded form to the end of the fin. Gape rather wide ; under jaw 
 the shortest ; maxillary extending back to beneath the posterior mar- 
 gin of the orbit. Teeth numerous, and of irregular length, in both 
 jaws as well as on the front of the vomer ; under jaw the shortest, 
 with a long barbule on the chin, and one on each side of the snout in 
 front of the eyes. Scales of the head and body adherent, small, finely 
 striated, and of an oval form ; lateral line scarcely perceptible. 
 Number of fin rays 
 1st D. 76 ; 2d*D. 57 ; P. 23 ; V. 7 ; A. 50 ; C. 20, 
 
 It is distinguished from the common ling and burbot 
 in the first dorsal fin being scarcely perceptible, and in hav- 
 ing a barbule in front of each eye. 
 
 Motella vulgar, Cuv., Yarr. Motellatricirrata,,Jen. Mustela ma- 
 rina, Ray. Gadus mustela, Perm. Gadtts tricirratus, Bloch. Sea-Loche 
 Whistle-fish. 
 
THE THREE-BEARDED ROCKLING. 355 
 
 This is not an uncommon fish along the Devonshire and 
 Cornish coasts, where it is found to frequent rocky and 
 weedy localities. It has been taken on the west of Scot- 
 land, and in Belfast Bay on the coast of Ireland, but is by 
 no means of common occurrence towards the north. It is 
 rare in the Firth of Forth, as well as along the whole of 
 the eastern shores of Scotland. Its flesh is seldom made use 
 of as food. It sheds its spawn in January and February, 
 and feeds principally on crustaceous animals. 
 
 MOTELLA QUINQUECIRRATA.* THE FlVE-BfiARDED 
 
 ROCKLING. 
 
 Specific Character. Snout with four barbules, and one on the 
 chin. 
 
 Description. From a specimen ten inches in length. Head one- 
 sixth of the whole length, caudal excluded ; depth of the body un- 
 der the pectorals greater than the length of the head. Colour of the 
 head, back, and sides, dark brown j belly and ventrals dirty white ; 
 pectorals, dorsal, anal, and caudal, dusky brown ; irides yellowish. 
 First dorsal fin very inconspicuous, commencing a little anterior to 
 the base of the pectorals, and terminating in a line over the end of 
 the pectoral ray ; the first ray about three times as long as the suc- 
 ceeding ones, and about one-third the length of the base of the fin ; 
 the rays when folded down become lodged in a sulcus behind the 
 nape. Second dorsal commencing at a short distance from the last, 
 and running down the back to within a short interval of the small 
 lateral caudal rays ; all the rays nearly of equal height, as long as 
 the base of the first seven rays of the anal ; caudal rounded at the 
 end ; pectorals of a similar shape, but rather smaller. Anal com- 
 mencing in a line under the eleventh ray of the second dorsal, and 
 terminating on a plane with the last ray of the same fin ; all the rays 
 nearly of equal height, rather less than those of the second dorsal ; 
 ventrals in advance of the pectorals ; the second ray much produced, 
 as long as the middle ray of the caudal. Under jaw the shortest ; 
 maxillary extending back to beneath the posterior margin of the or- 
 bit. Teeth small and blunt, nearly all of equal height, placed in 
 three or four rows in' each jaw, as well as on the anterior part of the 
 vomer ; snout furnished with four barbules, and one on the chin ; 
 
 * Motella quinquecirrata, Cuv., Yarr. Motella mustela, Jen. Gadus 
 mustela, Linn., Penn. 
 
 Z 2 
 
35G FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 gill-opening large ; branchial rays seven ; operculum small, of a tri- 
 angular form, ending over the pectorals in a point. Scales on the 
 head, body, and on some portion of the fins, small and adherent ; late- 
 ral line indistinct. Number of fin rays 
 
 1st D. 50; 2d D. 50 ; P. 15; V. 7; A. 40; C. 20. 
 
 This fish, in a great measure, resembles the last species, 
 and has been stated by some authors to be identical, vary- 
 ing only in the number of barbules on the snout ; but, if 
 we compare the fishes together, we shall find them to differ 
 in many respects, entitling them to rank as distinct species. 
 
 In the Three-Bearded Rockling the teeth are of unequal 
 length and sharp pointed"; some of them are of large size, 
 and projecting considerably beyond the rest, particularly 
 in the lower jaw. In the 'Five-Bearded Rockling the teeth 
 are excessively blunt, all of the same size and of equal length. 
 The pectoral fins in the three-bearded species are longer than 
 the caudal fin, and the body is marked with a number of 
 large, scattered, dusky spots ; whereas in the Jive-bearded 
 species the pectorals are not so long as the caudal, and the 
 body has no spots. The Three-Bearded Rockling has about 
 fifty rays in the anal fin, and the snout is never furnished 
 with more than two barbules, and one on the chin. In the 
 Five-Bearded Rockling, the anal fin has never more than 
 forty-three rays, and the snout is always furnished with 
 four barbules ; besides, this species is seldom found more 
 than a foot in length, and the head is small, compared to 
 the length of the body. 
 
 According to Mr Low, the Five-Bearded Rockling is 
 common in the Orkney Islands, where it is found under 
 stones, among sea- weed, but seldom exceeding nine to ten 
 inches in length. Mr Yarrell has found it a very common 
 fish on the Kentish coast in autumn, left by the retiring 
 of the tide in small pools among rocks. It has been taken 
 on the coast of Ireland, and I have found it of frequent 
 
THE TORSK. 357 
 
 occurrence at Brixhara, on the coast of Devon, in rocky 
 situations under stones and sea-weed. In the Firth of 
 Forth, about the month of July, this fish is frequently 
 taken with the hook and brought to market, when it is sold 
 in company with young cod, whiting, and podleys; al- 
 together they are said to make a very palatable fry. The 
 Five-Bearded Rockling inhabits hard sandy coasts, as well 
 as rocky places, and feeds on small shells and Crustacea. It 
 spawns in January and February, and the young are seen 
 about two inches in length in July. 
 
 GENUS BROSMIUS. Dorsal fin one, extending the 
 whole length of the back ; one barbule on the chin. 
 
 BROSMIUS VULGARIS.* THE TORSK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Ventral fins fleshy; caudal margined with 
 white. 
 
 Description. From a specimen twenty inches and a half in length. 
 " The greatest breadth at the end of the pectorals, four inches and a 
 half ; at the vent four inches ; something more than half-way from 
 the vent to the tail, two inches ; at the tail, one inch and a quarter. 
 The length of the head four inches ; from the point of the nose to 
 the commencement of the dorsal fin six inches. Length of the dor- 
 sal fin thirteen inches ; from the point of the lower jaw to the vent 
 eleven inches. Length of the anal fin eight inches ; tail something 
 more than two inches. The head small in proportion to the fish, 
 with a single barbule upon the chin ; upper jaw a very little longer 
 than the lower ; in the jaws there are great numbers of very small 
 teeth, and in the roof of the mouth a rough or toothed bone, much 
 in the shape of a horse-shoe ; a pretty broad furrow runs from the 
 nape to the commencement of the dorsal fin, which runs the whole 
 length of the back to within about an inch of the tail ; the tail is 
 rounded ; the anal fin begins at the vent and ends at the tail ; but is 
 not joined with it ; the rays of the dorsal and anal fins are numerous, 
 but the softness of these and the thickness of the investing skin, 
 hinder them from being counted with exactness ; the edges of the 
 dorsal, anal, and tail, are white, the rest dusky ; the pectoral fins 
 
 * Brosmius vulgaris, Yarr.,Cuv. Gadus brosme, Perm., Don. 
 
358 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 are founded, broad, and of a brown colour ; the ventrals small, thick, 
 and fleshy, ending in points ; the body to the vent is roundish ; the 
 belly from the throat growing suddenly very prominent, continuing 
 so to the vent, where it becomes smaller to the tail ; behind the vent, 
 the body is pretty much compressed ; the colour of the head is 
 dusky ; the back and sides yellow, which becoming lighter by de- 
 grees is lost in the white of the belly ; the lateral line is scarcely dis- 
 cernible, but runs nearer the back than to the belly, till towards the 
 middle of the fish ; in its passage backwards it curves a little down- 
 wards and runs to the tail." Number of fin rays 
 
 " D. 49; P. 21 ; V. 5 ; A. 37 ; C. 35"Yarrell. 
 
 It is readily distinguished from its congeners by having but one 
 dorsal fin. 
 
 The Torsk is scarcely known on the southern shores, being 
 confined principally to the northern seas. It is said to be 
 occasionally taken in the Firth of Forth, and brought to 
 the Edinburgh market, where the young of the Ling is fre- 
 quently mistaken for it. Mr Yarrell states it "to be a 
 northern fish, scarcely occurring below 60 or above 73 ; 
 not migrating regularly, and therefore rarely seen by the 
 ichthyologists of the South. Plentiful on the coast of Nor- 
 way as far as Finmark, off the Faroe Islands, and the west 
 and south coasts of Iceland ; rare on the north and east 
 coasts of Iceland. It must be uncommon in Greenland, as 
 Fabricius only knew it from the report of the natives. Just 
 touches the most northern point of Denmark, at Skagen in 
 Jutland, where it is sometimes taken : not at all in the south. 
 Approaches the land early in the year in shoals, that of 
 Iceland in January ; remains there in company with the 
 five-bearded, and goes away again late in the summer. 
 Lives in deep water, and is therefore seldom taken, even 
 when it is most abundant. Prefers a rocky bottom, on 
 which sea-weeds grow. Never found any thing in its sto- 
 mach ; and this has probably given rise to the saying, that 
 it lives on the juice of sea- weeds. Spawns in April and 
 
THE TADPOLE FISH. 359 
 
 May among the fiici along the coast. Is rarely taken with 
 the cod-hooks, more frequently at the smaller lines. Some- 
 times taken by the Norwegian fishermen among the Hali- 
 buts. It must have less power of resisting the violence of 
 the sea than its congeners, as it is thrown up dead in incre- 
 dible numbers on the coasts of the Faroe Islands and the 
 south coast of Iceland after a storm. Its flesh is hard, but 
 well flavoured. In Iceland seldom dried, but eaten fresh. 
 Jan Olsen says, that the fresh flesh is badly tasted, but when 
 dried it is the best food. In Norway it is treated like the 
 Stock-fish, but forms no branch of merchandise. The hard 
 roe, according to Pontoppidan, has good flavour. Its ene- 
 mies are the larger species of cod. It is much infested by 
 a worm which form a nidus in its skin, and produces rounded 
 swellings." It is said to grow occasionally to the length of 
 three feet and a half, the average size being about eighteen 
 inches. 
 
 GENUS RANICEPS. Dorsal fins two ; the first scarcely 
 perceptible ; the second long ; one barbule on the chin, none 
 on the snoutc 
 
 KANICEFS TRIFURCATUS.* THE TADPOLE-FISH. 
 
 Specific Character. First two ventral rays much produced. (See 
 Plate XXXVI.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen four inches and a half in length. 
 Head large and wide, about one third the length of the body, with the 
 crown much flattened and depressed ; anterior part of the body 
 rounded and tumid ; hinder part compressed. Colour of the body 
 dark sooty black ; lips, angle of the mouth, and under the gill-covers, 
 pure white ; second dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, deep black, with the 
 margins of the two former shaded with white. First dorsal fin com- 
 mencing over the base of the pectorals, composed of three small rays 
 
 * Raniceps trifurcatus, Yarr., Jen., Flem. Itaniceps Jago, Flem. Bar- 
 bus minor, Penn. Batrachoides trifurcntus, Penn, 
 
360 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the middle of which is the longest, being about half the length of the 
 pectorals. Second dorsal commencing over the middle of the pec- 
 torals, and running down the back to within a short interval of the 
 tail. Anal fin begins in a line under the termination of the pectoral 
 rays, and ends at a point not quite so far as that at which the dorsal 
 terminates. Ventrals arise under the throat ; the two first rays the 
 longest, and extend a little beyond the origin of the anal fin, of a 
 bluish- white colour; the remainder of the rays about one third the 
 length of the first, of a dull black appearance ; caudal and pectorals 
 nearly of equal size and shape, slightly rounded at the extremity ; the 
 latter of a sooty-black colour with a broad light- coloured band run- 
 ning across the middle. Scales small and adherent, scarcely percep- 
 tible when fresh ; air-bladder large ; coats of the stomach strong; 
 csecal appendages wanting. Jaws furnished with a number of small, 
 sharp teeth, with a few long ones projecting beyond the rest, parti- 
 cularly on the lower jaw, and on front of the upper ; anterior part of 
 the roof of the mouth also furnished with teeth set close together, and 
 arranged in a lateral direction ; four cartilaginous prominences at the 
 commencement of the oesophagus, covered with a number of very 
 small sharp teeth, rendering each rough to the touch ; tongue broad, 
 smooth, without teeth ; under jaw shortest, with a conical barbule 
 placed on the chin ; eyes situated a little in advance of the angle of 
 the mouth, of a pale yellow colour. Lateral line commencing over 
 the pectorals, and after running a straight course half-way down the 
 side, takes a sudden bend, from thence straight to the base of the 
 caudal fin. Number of fin rays 
 
 lstD.3; 2dD. 67; C. 20; A. 57; P. 17; V. 6. 
 
 At the origin of the lateral line, are from nine to ten 
 small tubercles, which are not perceptible when the fish is 
 recently taken ; but when the skin is somewhat. shrunk by 
 exposure to the sun or open air, these gland-like bodies be- 
 come very evident. In appearance this animal little resembles 
 any of our British fishes as to shape or colour, and may 
 well be compared, from its form, to a frog in the tadpole 
 state, from which circumstance it appears to have derived 
 the name of " Tadpole fish." It does not appear to be so 
 rare a fish as was formerly imagined. It has been taken on 
 the coast of Cornwall, on the Northumberland and Ber- 
 wickshire coasts, on the west coast of Scotland, and in the 
 
THE PLAISE. 3G1 
 
 Firth of Forth in the neighbourhood of Alloa. It feeds 
 on small insects, and sheds its spawn in April. 
 
 FAMILY VI. PLEURONECTIDJE. Body flat, com- 
 pressed vertically ; back of a dark colour ; under surface of 
 a pure white ; dorsal fin single, extending the whole length 
 of the back ; both eyes placed on the same side of the head. 
 The species keep close to the bottom, having no swimming 
 bladder. 
 
 GENUS PL A TESSA. Both eyes on the right side; dor- 
 sal fin commencing over the left eye, and not reaching to 
 the caudal ; caudal fin rounded at the end. 
 
 PLATESSA VULGARIS.* THE PLAISE. 
 
 Specific Characters. A row of five or six osseous tubercles on the 
 eye side of the head ; scales entire. (See Plate XXXVII.) 
 
 Description. From a small specimen a foot in length, Head ra- 
 ther less than one-fourth of the entire length, caudal included; breadth 
 of the body half its length, fins not included. Colour of the body 
 above brownish, with large distant orange spots ; under surface pure 
 white, ( occasionally mottled. Dorsal fin commencing over the mid- 
 dle of the orbit, and terminating at a short interval from the base of 
 the caudal ; the middle rays the longest, more than twice the length 
 of the first. Anal fin arising under the middle of the pectoral, and 
 ending under the last ray of the dorsal ; the sixteenth, seventeenth, 
 and eighteenth rays the longest, more than twice the length of the 
 first, the succeeding ones gradually diminishing ; the last very short ; 
 caudal even or slightly rounded at the end ; the middle ray as long 
 as the base of the fifteen first dorsal rays ; ventrals as long as the 
 fifth or sixth ray of the anal, and situated in advance of the base of 
 the pectorals; a strong spine placed in front of the anal; pectorals 
 rather longer than the ventrals ; snout pointed ; body contracted at 
 the base of the tail; under jaw longest, ascending; mouth small ; 
 teeth even, closely set and rather obtuse ; eyes on the right side, full 
 and prominent, both equally advanced towards the end of the snout ; 
 
 * Platessa vulgaris, Yarr., Jen., Flem. Pleuronectes platessa, Linn., 
 Penn., Bloch. Fluke. 
 
3(52 FISHES OF THE FI&TH OF FORTH. 
 
 the intervening space narrow, with an osseous ridge in the middle, 
 which, behind the eyes, becomes interrupted, giving rise to a flexuous 
 row of tubercles five or six in number, from the termination of which 
 the lateral line commences, taking a very slight curve over the pec- 
 torals, from thence passing straight to the base of the tail, where it 
 accompanies the under surface of the middle caudal ray. Scales en- 
 tire, small and adherent, and from being deeply impressed in the cu- 
 ticle it gives the surface a pitted appearance. Number of fin rays 
 D. 70 ; P. 11 j V. 6 ; A. 50 ; C. 20 ; B. 6. 
 
 The Plaise is readily distinguished by having a row of 
 osseous tubercles, about five in number, placed on the eye 
 side of the head, running with a gentle curve from the ori- 
 gin of the lateral line to the central ridge of the orbits ; a 
 character which none of the other species of this genus 
 possess. 
 
 It is a fish well known throughout the British coasts, in 
 consequence of its being held in high estimation for the 
 table. It is said to have been taken on some parts of 
 the English coast the weight of fifteen pounds. During 
 the summer months it inhabits rocky situations, but in 
 February and March it approaches the sandy banks for the 
 purpose of shedding its spawn, when great numbers are 
 taken both with the net and line. 
 
 In the month of August the young are seen from two 
 to three inches in length at the mouths of rivers, but seldom 
 found beyond the flow of the tide, although they have been 
 retained with success in fresh-water ponds. They are com- 
 mon in almost every part of the estuary of the Forth, but 
 seldom met with of large size ; the small ones are named 
 Flukes and are in their best condition as food in May, par- 
 ticularly when taken on rocky ground, where they meet 
 with various species of Crustacea and small fishes on which 
 they principally feed. 
 
THE MUD-FLOUNDER. 363 
 
 PLATESSA FLESUS.* THE MUD-FLOUNDER. 
 
 Specific Characters. Middle of the back along the course of the 
 lateral line, and at the base of the dorsal and anal fins, rough ; sides 
 smooth. (Plate XXXVII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen eleven inches in length. Head 
 rather less than one-fourth of the entire length ; breadth of the body, 
 fins not included, half its length. Colour of the upper surface oliva- 
 ceous brown ; fins rather lighter ; under surface white ; liable to 
 great variation ; occasionally both surfaces are of the same colour ; 
 sometimes the back is yellow or yellowish-brown, marked with dark 
 red spots, and frequently with large white spots ; the colour depend- 
 ing greatly on the nature of the soil on which the fish reposes ; if it 
 frequents muddy situations the back is dark ; if sandy places it is 
 more or less red. Dorsal fin commencing over the anterior margin of 
 the orbit, running down the back to within a short interval of the 
 base of the lateral caudal rays, the first ray short, about the length 
 of the diameter of the orbit, the succeeding rays gradually increasing 
 in height to the thirty-fourth, which is the longest, being as long as 
 the base of the eleven first dorsal rays, the rest more rapidly dimi- 
 nishing, the last very small ; caudal fin even or very slightly rounded 
 at the end, the middle ray as long as the base of the first thirteen rays 
 of the anal, all the rays branched except the three lateral ones, which 
 are simple and shorter than the rest. Pectorals rounded, the middle 
 ray the longest, about half the length of the head ; ventrals placed a 
 little in advance of the pectorals ; anal commencing under the middle 
 of the pectorals, and ending in a line under the last ray of the dorsal, 
 the first ray short, the fifteen succeeding ones gradually increasing, 
 from thence gradually diminishing to the last, which is very short, 
 the longest equalling the length of the thirty-fourth ray of the dorsal, 
 a small spine in front of the first ray ; snout rather pointed ; under 
 jaw longest ; mouth small ; teeth obtuse, placed in a single row ; 
 eyes on the right side of the head equally in advance ; operculum 
 terminating in a point over the base of the pectorals. Lateral line 
 taking a slight curve over the pectorals, from thence running straight 
 to the tail, when it accompanies the lower margin of the middle cau- 
 dal ray ; on each side of the anterior portion of the lateral line are a 
 number of small, rounded, stellated tubercles, giving a roughness to 
 that part when the finger is passed along the lateral line ; the head and 
 cheeks have also a few tubercles of a similar kind ; as well as the 
 base of the dorsal and anal fins ; scales of the body small, entire, and 
 very adherent. Number of fin rays 
 D. 62 ; P. 10 ; V. 6 ; A. 45 ; C. 18. 
 
 * Platessaflesus, Yarr., Jen. Pleuronectes fiesus> Linn., Penn. Fresh- 
 water Fluke, Mud-Flounder. 
 
364 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 This species of Flounder is distinguished by the upper 
 surface being perfectly smooth, except the middle of the 
 back along the course of the lateral line, and the base of 
 the dorsal and anal fins, which are rough with small round- 
 ed stellated tubercles ; by passing the hand down the back 
 they are readily felt. 
 
 The Mud-Flounder, as it is frequently named in Scot- 
 land, is rather more common on our coasts than the last- 
 described species, and is found at the mouths of rivers 
 nearly all the year round, up which it sometimes ascends to 
 a considerable distance, particularly when the waters are 
 discoloured and increased in size by heavy rains. In ge- 
 neral, it is a dirty feeder, subsisting on slugs, worms, and 
 dead animal matter, and inhabiting muddy situations in 
 preference to fine sandy banks. In the months of July 
 and August these fish are taken in great numbers in the 
 Firth of Forth in the salmon nets, particularly above 
 Queensferry ; as well as in Leith Harbour with the hook. 
 They take the bait most eagerly, and require but little skill 
 in their capture. The average size is from seven to nine 
 inches in length, and one of double that is considered un- 
 common. The largest specimen I have met with taken from 
 the Firth of Forth, measures the length of sixteen inches. 
 Pennant has heard of them weighing six pounds. Those 
 found in the river are said to be held in higher estimation 
 for the table than those met with in the sea, and are at all 
 times inferior in flavour to the other species of flat fish. 
 They spawn in brackish water in March and April, and 
 the young are seen in June scarcely half an inch long. A 
 variety of this fish is often met with, with the eyes on the 
 left side of the head ; some authors formerly considered it 
 as a distinct species, under the name of fleuronectes passer, 
 but since it differs in no other respect from the common 
 kind, naturalists are now agreed to make no distinction be- 
 tween them. 
 
THE SALTWATER FLOUNDER. 365 
 
 PLATESSA LIMANDA.* THE SALTWATER FLOUNDER. 
 
 Specific Characters. Scales ciliated ; lateral line much arched 
 over the pectorals ; rays of the dorsal and anal fins rough. (Plate 
 XXXVII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen a foot in length. Head less 
 than one-fifth of the whole length,, caudal included ; body rather 
 more than twice the length of its breadth, fins excluded. Colour of 
 the upper surface yellowish-brown, sometimes pale yellow ; marked 
 with a few obscure orange spots ; fins rather lighter ; under surface 
 pure white. Dorsal fin commencing over the middle of the left or- 
 bit and terminating at a short distance from the caudal rays, the 
 first ray short, less than the diameter of the orbit ; the succeeding 
 ones gradually increasing in length to about the fortieth ray ; the re- 
 mainder rather more rapidly diminishing, the last very short. Caudal 
 rounded at the end, the middle ray as long as the base of the first 
 seventeen rays of the dorsal, all branched except the three lateral 
 ones which are shorter than the rest ; pectorals more than half the, 
 length of the head, the three or four middle rays of equal length. 
 Ventrals small, placed in advance of the base of the pectorals. Anal 
 fin commencing a little beyond the end of the ventral rays, and ter- 
 minating in a line under the last ray of the dorsal, the twenty-third 
 or twenty-fourth ray the longest, the rest gradually diminishing. 
 Both eyes placed on the right side of the head, the under of which is 
 rather in advance ; mouth small ; under jaw longest. Teeth obtuse, 
 placed in one row in each jaw ; lateral line taking a high curve over 
 the pectorals, from thence passing straight to the end of the middle 
 caudal ray. Scales of the body more than twice the size of those in 
 the last-described species, ciliated at the free margin, rendering a 
 roughness to the surface when the hand is passed from tail to head ; 
 each ray in the dorsal and anal fins is accompanied by a series of 
 ciliated scales running along the anterior margin ; these scales are more 
 perceptible on the middle rays, and are frequently wanting in the 
 lateral ones ; the caudal rays are furnished with a row of scales on 
 each side, but not ciliated, causing the fin to feel perfectly smooth ; 
 no scales on the pectorals or ventrals except a few at the base of the 
 first and second ray; a sharp, stout, reclining spine immediately at 
 the commencement of the anal fin. Number of fin rays 
 D. 75; P. 11 ; V. 6; A. 57; C. 16. 
 
 * Platessa limanda, Yarr., Jen. Pleuronectes limanda, Bloch, Penn., 
 Don., Linn. Common Dab, Saltwater Fluke. 
 
366 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 The essential characters are : lateral line much arched 
 over the pectorals ; dorsal and anal fins rough to the touch ; 
 pectoral, ventral, and caudal fins, smooth ; back rough when 
 the hand is passed from tail to head. Head, lateral line, 
 and base of the dorsal and anal fins, without tubercles. 
 
 This species of flat fish is found to frequent most of the 
 sandy banks throughout the British coasts, but is not of so 
 common occurrence as either the Plaise or Mud-Flounder. 
 There are few fish of the kind which surpass it in flavour, 
 particularly when taken in the months of February and 
 March, and it even rivals the sole in delicacy. In the Firth 
 of Forth numbers are caught with long lines baited with 
 mussels, and they are frequently found with other flounders 
 entangled in the salmon-nets at Musselburgh and Queens- 
 ferry. They delight in shallow water in preference to the 
 deep, and are seldom seen in rocky situations, or at the 
 mouths of fresh-water rivers. They spawn in the months 
 of April and May, and are then, and for two months after- 
 wards, of little value for the table, the flesh being at that 
 period soft, and ill flavoured. Crustacea and small fishes 
 appear to be their principal food. I obtained a specimen 
 of fifteen inches in length in Edinburgh in the month of 
 March ; one of eight or nine inches is considered the ave- 
 rage size. 
 
 PLATESSA MICROCEPHALUS.* THE SMOOTH DAB. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper surface smooth ; head without tuber- 
 cles ; teeth deficient on the eye side ; jaws equal. (Plate XXXVIII.) 
 
 Description. From a large specimen eighteen inches in length. 
 Head small, about one-sixth of the whole length, caudal included ; 
 breadth of the body less than half its length. Colour of the upper 
 surface yellowish-brown mottled with brown of a darker shade ; mar- 
 gin of the gill-cover orange-yellow ; belly pure white. Dorsal fin 
 
 Platessa microcephalus, Flera., Yarr. Pleuronectes lams, Penn. Pleu- 
 ronectes microcephalus, Donn. Lemon Dab, Smear Dab, Sandfteuk, Mary- 
 sole, Town Dab. 
 
THE SMOOTH DAB. 367 
 
 commencing over the anterior part of the orbit, and ending near the 
 caudal rays ; the first ray short, about the length of the orbit ; the 
 succeeding thirty gradually increasing in height, the next thirty-four 
 about equal, the rest gradually decreasing, the last very short and 
 fine, the middle rays rather longer than half the length of the head. 
 Caudal rounded at the end, the middle ray equalling the length of 
 the head ; ventrals small, placed in advance of the base of the pec- 
 torals the middle ray as long as the base of the five first rays of the 
 dorsal. Anal commencing nearly under the base of the pectorals, 
 and terminating under the last ray of the dorsal ; the twelve first 
 rays gradually increasing in height the following thirty of nearly 
 equal length, the rest gradually decreasing, the last very short, the 
 middle rays as long as the base of the first ten. Pectorals about half 
 the length of the head ; lateral line slightly curved over the pectorals, 
 from thence running straight to the end of the middle caudal ray. 
 Lips thick and fleshy ; jaws of equal length ; teeth obtuse, set close 
 together in one row ; the first two on the lower jaw a little apart from 
 the rest ; on the eye side of the jaws the teeth are deficient ; mouth 
 small; lower orbit very slightly in advance of the upper. Scales' 
 distinct, oval, entire. Number of fin rays 
 D. 87; P. 11 ; V. 5; A. 73; C. 17. 
 
 This fish is readily distinguished from the rest of the spe- 
 cies in the same genus, in having both jaws of equal length ; 
 in the teeth extending but a very little more than half-way 
 round the mouth, and in the teeth being deficient on the eye 
 side. 
 
 The Smooth Dab is not by any means a common fish 
 in the Firth of Forth ; it makes its appearance mostly in 
 the spring months, and is taken on the sandy banks off Fife- 
 shire, as well as on the opposite coast, with lines baited with 
 soft mollusca. Two or three seasons sometimes pass when not 
 half a dozen of these fish are seen in the Edinburgh market. 
 In the year 1835 they were unusually plentiful, particu- 
 larly in the month of February ; but after March they are 
 scarcely ever met with. They shed their spawn some time 
 during April, after which they retire to rocky ground, where 
 they generally remain until the commencement of the fol- 
 
368 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 lowing year. The Smooth Dab, as an article of food, is 
 considered by some persons to be of little or no value, in 
 consequence of its possessing a strong, disagreeable, tarry 
 flavour; by others again, no flat fish is said to surpass it in 
 excellence, the flesh being firm and well- tasted. These op- 
 posite opinions may be easily accounted for when we con- 
 sider that the quality of the fish depends solely on the pe- 
 riod of the year in which it is caught. In December, Ja- 
 nuary, and February, the Smooth Dab is in good season 
 for the table; but in April, May, and June, it is found 
 to be of very inferior quality, and on some occasions has 
 been proved unwholesome. It feeds on small shell-fish and 
 Crustacea. I have also met with this species occasionally 
 on the Devonshire coast ; it is said to be rare in Cornwall. 
 
 PLATESSA LIMANDOIDES.* THE LONG ROUGH DAB. 
 
 Specific Characters. Rays of the pectoral and caudal fins rough ; 
 lateral line nearly straight. (Plate XXXVIII.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen eleven inches in length. Head one- 
 fifth of the whole length, caudal included ; breadth of the body nearly 
 one third of its length, fins not included. Colour of the upper surface 
 pale brownish-grey ; under surface pure white. Dorsal fin commen- 
 cing over the anterior part of the left orbit, and terminating at a short 
 distance from the caudal fin ; the first ray short ; the forty succeed- 
 ing ones gradually increasing j the following ten about equal height; 
 the remainder gradually diminishing ; the last small, rather shorter 
 and finer than the first. Anal commencing a little behind the base 
 of the pectorals and terminating under the last ray of the dorsal, in 
 form similar to the dorsal ; the middle rays equalling the length of 
 the pectorals ; caudal somewhat angular at the end ; the middle 
 ray as long as the base of the first fourteen rays of the anal, all 
 branched except the three lateral ones, which are much the short- 
 est. Ventrals in advance of the base of the pectorals ; the middle 
 ray which is the longest reaching to the anal spine. Pectorals less 
 
 * PlatessalimnndoideS) Yarn, Jen. Pleuronectes timandoides, Shaw, Bloch. 
 Sandsucker, Long Flcnk. Sand Flenk. 
 
THE LONG ROUGH DAB. 369 
 
 than half the length of the head, and as long as the base of the nine 
 first dorsal rays. Mouth large ; under jaw longest ; teeth long 
 and slender, and very sharp, placed a little apart from each other, 
 and in one row in each jaw. Eyes large, the upper rather in advance ; 
 an elevated bony ridge between ; lateral line broad and distinct, tak- 
 ing a very slight turn over the pectoralfin, from thence running straight 
 to the end of the middle caudal ray. Scales of the body large, cili- 
 ated and very deciduous ; those on the rays of the fins, smaller and 
 more adherent. Number of fin rays 
 D. 85; P. 10; V.6; A. 69; C. 17. 
 
 The Long Rough Dab in some measure resembles the salt- 
 water Flounder, in having the back rough, and the dorsal and 
 anal rays furnished with a row of ciliated scales 1 ; but it differs 
 from it, however, in being a narrower fish, and in having the 
 lateral line nearly straight ; the caudal, pectoral, and ventral 
 rays rough ; the mouth large, and the teeth long and sharp : 
 whereas in the salt-water flounder, the lateral line is much 
 bent over the pectorals; the caudal, pectoral, and ventral 
 rays smooth ; the mouth rather small, and the teeth blunt. 
 
 In the Edinburgh market this fish receives the name of 
 Sandsucker, from an erroneous idea entertained by the fish- 
 ermen in supposing it to feed on nothing but sand ; for, on 
 opening the stomach, it appears filled with small, granu- 
 lar, sand-like particles, which seem to be the broken frag- 
 ments of some species of Asterias. 
 
 This fish 1 first recorded as British, in the Edinburgh 
 New Philosophical Journal for July 1835, from specimens 
 taken in the Firth of Forth. I have since met with it on 
 the Berwick and Devonshire coasts. It frequents sandy 
 shores, and is taken by the hook in company with the plaise 
 and other kinds of flat fish, principally in the months of May, 
 June, and July, when several may be found daily in the 
 Edinburgh market. Its flesh is sweet and good, but rather 
 dry. The largest specimen I have met with measures fif- 
 teen inches in length. Dr Clarke of Ipswich was the first 
 
 VOL. VII. A3 
 
370 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 naturalist to notice the Long Rough Dab as occurring in 
 the Firth of Forth, from whence he obtained several speci- 
 mens in the summer of 1834. According to Mr Yarrell, a 
 specimen was seen by Dr John Harwood on the Sussex 
 coast in 1833. 
 
 PLATESSA POLA.* THE POLE-DAB. 
 
 Specific Characters. Head without tubercles j scales large, not ci- 
 liated ; under jaw longest. (See Plate XXXVIII.) 
 
 Description. From a large specimen nineteen inches and a half 
 in length. Head small, one-fifth of the length, as far as half-way 
 down the caudal rays j breadth of the body, fins included, exactly 
 half the length of the whole fish. Colour of the upper surface, yel- 
 lowish-brown ; under surface pure white. Dorsal fin commencing 
 over the middle of the left eye, and ending at a short distance from 
 the base of the caudal rays ; the first ray short, about half the length 
 of the orbit, the twenty-five succeeding ones gradually increasing in 
 height, the forty following rays of equal length, as long as the base 
 of the first ten, the remainder gradually decreasing, the last very short 
 and fine. Ventrals rather small, placed in advance of the base of 
 the pectorals ; the middle ray the longest, equalling the length of 
 the thirteenth ray of the dorsal. Anal commencing nearly under the 
 base of the pectorals, and terminating in a line with the last ray of 
 the dorsal ; the first ray very short, the ten succeeding ones rapidly 
 increasing, the forty following of equal height, as long as the middle 
 rays of the dorsal, the remainder gradually diminishing, the last very 
 small. Caudal rounded or somewhat angular at the end, the middle 
 ray as long as the base of the first sixteen rays of the anal ; pecto- 
 rals pointed, rather more than half the length of the head. Mouth 
 small ; under jaw longest ; teeth obtuse, small, set close together, 
 in one row in each jaw, all of equal height. Eyes large, the lower 
 one placed very conspicuously in advance of the upper ; lateral line 
 nearly straight throughout its course, bent very slightly over the pec- 
 torals. Scales on the body large, entire, and very deciduous ; those 
 on the fins small and adherent. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 103; P. 9; V.6; A. 91; C. 20. 
 
 The Pole Dab is distinguished from the plaise in having 
 no tubercles on the head, and the scales of the body being 
 
 * Platessa pola, Yarr., Jen., Cuv. Pleuronectes pola, Lacepede. Pole, 
 Craig Fluke, French Sole, 
 
THE POLE-DAB. 371 
 
 large and deciduous ; it is distinguished from the mud-floun- 
 der, in the middle of the back and base of the dorsal and 
 anal fins being perfectly smooth and free from tubercles ; 
 from the salt-water flounder, in the scales not being ciliated, 
 the dorsal and anal rays being smooth, and the lateral line 
 over the pectorals nearly straight; from the smooth dab, in 
 having the under jaw longest, and the teeth extending the 
 whole way round and not being deficient on the eye side ; 
 from the long rough dab, in having all the rays of the fins 
 perfectly smooth, and the mouth small. 
 
 This fish was first recorded as new to the British Fauna, 
 in the Edinburgh New Philosophical Journal for 1835. The 
 only locality then known for it was the Firth of Forth. 
 Mr Yarrell, however, had obtained a specimen in Bond 
 Street in 1833, but on what coast it was taken does not ap- 
 pear to be known. In 1836 I met with three examples at 
 Brixham, on the coast of Devon, where they were taken in 
 the trawl-net with other fishes. In the Firth of Forth, since 
 the time I first discovered it, I have obtained fifteen speci- 
 mens, from the largest of which the above description was 
 taken. According to Baron Cuvier, this fish is not unfre- 
 quentty taken along the coast of France, where it is held 
 in high estimation as food. The flesh of those taken in the 
 Firth of Forth' was considered equal, if not superior, to that 
 of the sole. They shed their spawn in May and June, 
 when they are found in sandy situations, and are then taken 
 with lines. In the winter months they inhabit rocky 
 ground, and feed on different kinds of Crustacea. In the 
 stomachs of those examined were found the remains of small 
 crabs and star-fish. 
 
 GENUS HIPPOGLOSSUS.Both eyes on the right 
 side ; dorsal fin commencing over the left eye ; caudal fin 
 concave at the end. 
 
 A a 2 
 
372 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 HlPPOGLOSSUS VULGARIS.* THE HALIBUT. 
 
 Specific Characters. Lateral line arched over the pectorals ; teeth 
 in two rows in the upper jaw. 
 
 Description. From a specimen twenty-one inches in length, and 
 ten and a half in breadth, fins included. Head about one-fourth of 
 the whole length. Colour of the upper surface dusky brown, occa- 
 sionally marked with six or eight large white or bluish spots ; under 
 surface pure white. Dorsal fin commencing over the anterior part of 
 the left eye, and ending at a wide interval from the base of the cau- 
 dal rays ; the first twenty-four rays nearly of equal height, about 
 half the length of the orbit ; the succeeding fifteen rapidly increas- 
 ing, the longest rays equalling the length of the base of the first ten 
 rays, the remainder gradually diminishing, the last very short. Cau- 
 dal concave ; the middle ray considerably less than the length of the 
 long lateral rays ; pectorals as long as the base of the first twelve 
 rays of the anal ; the fourth ray the longest, all branched except the 
 two first ; ventrals placed in advance of the pectorals, the middle 
 ray as long as the seventh of the anal. Anal fin commencing in a 
 line under the twenty-fifth ray of the dorsal, and ending under the 
 last ray of the same fin, the first ray short, the seventeen succeeding 
 ones rapidly increasing, the remainder gradually diminishing, the last 
 very short ; the longest rays equalling those of the dorsal. Gape 
 wide ; under jaw longest ; teeth long and sharp, set a little apart, 
 placed in two rows in the upper jaw, and in one in the lower. The 
 left eye, smallest ; lateral line much arched over the pectorals, from 
 thence running straight to the end of the middle caudal ray ; scales 
 small, of an oblong form, rather adherent. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 97; P. 15; V. 6; A. 73; C. 18. 
 
 This fish is readily distinguished from all the other flat 
 fish by the caudal fin being concave at the end. 
 
 The Halibut is a native of the Northern Seas, where 
 specimens of large size, weighing nearly five hundred pounds, 
 are said to have been occasionally taken. It is frequently 
 met with along the east coast of Scotland, but seems to be 
 rare, or entirely unknown, on the south coast of England. 
 A fine specimen was taken off the Isle of Man in April 
 
 * Hippoglossus vulgaris, Yarr., Jen., Cuv. Pleuronectes hippoglossis, 
 Linn., Penn., Don. 
 
THE HALIBUT. 373 
 
 1828, and sent to the Edinburgh market. It measured 
 seven feet six inches in length, three feet six inches in 
 breadth, and weighed three hundred and twenty pounds. 
 It seems most voracious, and subsists principally on crus- 
 tacea and small fish. Pennant states that two instances oc- 
 curred in one year of its swallowing the lead weight at the 
 end of a line with which the seamen were sounding ; one off 
 Flamborough Head, the other going into Tynemouth Haven. 
 In the latter instance the fish was taken, in the former it dis- 
 engaged itself. The Halibut, in the Firth of Forth, inhabits 
 deep and rocky places, and is frequently taken of large size 
 near Inchkeith, and in the neighbourhood of the Bass. In the 
 months of July and August, specimens are caught about a 
 foot and a half in length, and sold in the Edinburgh mar- 
 ket at the rate of fourpence a pound, where they are named 
 Halibut-Turbot, and are frequently disposed of as turbot. 
 The large individuals are considered coarse and dry eating ; 
 the part which adheres to the side fin is esteemed the best, 
 and by some is regarded as a very delicious morsel. They 
 spawn in spring. 
 
 GENUS RHOMBUS. -Both eyes on the left side, dorsal 
 fin commencing in front of the right eye. 
 
 RHOMBUS MAXIMUS.* THE TURBOT. 
 
 Specific Character. Upper surface of the body with prominent os- 
 seous tubercles. 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length. Breadth, 
 fins included, eleven inches ; head one-third of the length of the 
 body, caudal not included ; body of a rhomboidal form approaching 
 to round. Colour of the upper surface yellowish-brown, mottled 
 
 * Rhombus maximus, Cuv., Yarr. Pleuronectes maximus, Perm., Jep., 
 Flem. Rawn Fluke, Bannock Fluke. 
 
374 FISHES OF THE FIKTH OF FORTH. 
 
 and spotted with dark brown ; under surface pure white ; occasion- 
 ally of a dark appearance, and instances have occurred in which both 
 surfaces were of the same colour. Dorsal fin commencing anterior to 
 the right eye, between it and the upper lip ; the first ray short, about 
 the length of the orbit, the thirty-six succeeding ones gradually in- 
 creasing, the rest gradually diminishing, the last ray about the length 
 of the first, the longest ray equalling the length of the base of the 
 first nine rays of the same fin. Anal fin arising in advance of the 
 base of the pectorals, and ending under the last ray of the dorsal, 
 being separated from the caudal fin by a short interval ; origin of 
 the pectorals placed under the nineteenth ray of the dorsal, the 
 fourth and fifth rays rather the longest, equalling the length of the 
 base of the first eight rays of the dorsal. First ray of the anal 
 short, the succeeding seventeen gradually increasing, the remain- 
 der gradually diminishing, the last rather shorter than the first, 
 the longest ray, as long as the base of the first eight rays of the 
 same fin. Base of the ventrals long, placed in a line under the 
 cheeks, the rays gradually increasing from the first ; the fin in form 
 and size is similar to the anterior portion of the dorsal as far as the 
 ninth ray. Under jaw longest ; teeth small and sharp, set a little 
 apart, arranged in several rows, particularly in the front of each jaw ; 
 eyes rather small, the under one rather in advance of the upper; 
 lateral line much arched over the pectorals,, after which it passes 
 straight to the base of the tail, from thence along the under margin of 
 the middle caudal ray ; caudal fin rounded at the end, the middle 
 ray equalling the length of the base of the first eleven rays of the 
 anal. Both sides of the body smooth, excepting being furnished 
 with prominent osseous tubercles having their blunt points directing 
 forwards ; on the upper surface, they are more numerous than on the 
 lower ; head and cheeks rough, with tubercles of a similar kind, but 
 smaller, more numerous and set close together, particularly between 
 the eyes and along the margin of the preoperculum ; body apparently 
 without scales, marked with a number of irregular depressed lines, 
 particularly on the under surface. Number of fin rays 
 D. 66; P. 11; V. 6; A. 48; C. 15. 
 
 The Turbot is seldom met with in Orkney and still rarer 
 towards the Shetland Isles. Along the east coast of Scot- 
 land, in the bays of the Moray and Dornoch Firth, they are 
 occasionally taken but of small size, and do not appear in any 
 numbers until we approach the English coast. At the 
 mouth of the Firth of Forth, they are found more plenti- 
 ful, and specimens weighing from twenty to thirty pounds 
 
THE BRILL. 375 
 
 are not unfrequently taken, from whence the Edinburgh 
 market is abundantly supplied. On the Yorkshire coast an 
 extensive Turbot fishery is carried on, principally with the 
 hook, when lines of three miles in length are used. Each 
 line which is placed across the current and allowed to re- 
 main for six hours and then hauled up, has more than two 
 thousand hooks. The bait generally used is the sand-eel, 
 but portions of other fish will answer as well, provided 
 they be fresh. On the coast of Devon, turbot are taken 
 in trawl-nets ; but not in any numbers, until they leave the 
 rocky parts, and approach the sandy ground to deposit 
 their spawn. This they shed in spring. The flesh of the 
 turbot is the most esteemed as food of all the Pleuronec- 
 tidae, and meets with a ready market at a high price. 
 When fresh it is wholesome, but if eaten when in the slight- 
 est tainted, there are few stomachs with which it is found 
 to agree, being liable to create nausea and sickness, and 
 that sometimes to an alarming extent. It is in best con- 
 dition for the table' when in roe. The most common weight 
 of this fish is from five to ten pounds. It is recorded to 
 have been taken the weight of one hundred and ninety 
 pounds, measuring six feet across. 
 
 RHOMBUS VULGARIS.* THE BKILL. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body smooth, without tubercles ; scales dis- 
 tinct, entire, not ciliated. 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length ; breadth, 
 fins included, ten inches. Head about one-fourth of the whole 
 length ; form much resembling that of the turbot, but rather more 
 oval. Colour of the upper surface dark brown, with numerous white 
 and dusky spots ; under surface pure white. Dorsal fin commenc- 
 ing in front of the right eye, between it and the upper lip, and ter- 
 minating at a short interval from the base of the caudal rays ; the 
 
 * Rhombus vulgaris, Yarr., Cuv. Pleuronectes rhombus, Jen., Don., 
 Penn. Pearl, Brett, Kite, Bonnet-Fluke. 
 
FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 first ray short, the succeeding ones as far as about half-way down the 
 back, gradually increasing ; the rest gradually diminishing, the long- 
 est ray equalling the base of the first nine rays of the same fin. Anal 
 commencing in advance of the base of the pectorals, and ending in 
 a line under the last ra} T of the dorsal, the first ray short, the suc- 
 ceeding ones gradually increasing to about half-way down the fin ; 
 the remainder gradually diminishing, the last about the length of the 
 first, the longest rays equalling the length of the same rays of the dor- 
 sal. Caudal rounded at the end, all the rays branched except the two or 
 three lateral ones ; ventrals situated in a line under the preoperculum, 
 appearing like a continuation of the anal ; a small space intervening, 
 in which is placed the vent ; pectorals arising in a line under the 
 twentieth ray of the dorsal, the third and fourth rays the longest, 
 equalling the longest ray of the anal. Under jaw longest, ascending 
 obliquely ; teeth small and sharp, placed in many rows in front ; gape 
 wide ; maxillary extending back lo beneath the middle of the eye ; 
 eyes small, the lower placed rather in advance of the upper. Lateral 
 line forming a considerable arch over the pectorals, after which it 
 runs straight to the base of the tail, from thence along the under 
 margin of the middle caudal ray ; body smooth without tubercles ; 
 scales small and distinct. Number of fin rays 
 D. 81 ;P. 11; V. 6; A. 63; C. 16. 
 
 This fish, inferior to the turbot in excellence as well 
 as in size, is seldom found weighing more than ten pounds. 
 On the Cornish and Devonshire coasts it is common, where 
 it is known by the name of Kite, but becomes less frequent 
 as we advance towards the northern shores. In the Firth 
 of Forth it is taken with the hook principally about Aber- 
 lady Bay, but scarcely ever found as high up the Firth as 
 Queen sferry. It is of much less frequent occurrence than 
 the turbot. It feeds on Crustacea and small fish, and spawns 
 in spring* 
 
 RHOMBUS HIRTUS.* MULLER'S TOPKNOT. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper surface of the body , rough ; scales 
 ciliated ; first ray of the dorsal not longer than (he second. 
 
 * Rhombus hirius, Yarr. Pleuronectes hirtus, Mull., Jen. Pleuronectes 
 punclatus, Penn. Black Fluke. 
 
MULLER'S TOPKNOT. 377 
 
 Description. From a specimen eight inches in length ; breadth, 
 fins included, five inches. Head more than one-fourth of the whole 
 length. Colour of the upper surface of the body reddish-brown 
 mottled and spotted with very dark brown or black ; a broad black 
 band extending vertically across the head ; commencing about the 
 base of the twentieth ray of the dorsal, passing down through both 
 eyes, and ending under the lower portion of the preoperculum ; un- 
 der surface white. Dorsal fin arising between the right eye and up- 
 per lip, and ending at the base of the caudal, but not connected to 
 it, a few of the rays passing underneath the tail ; the first ray short, 
 the succeeding sixty gradually increasing in height, the rest more 
 rapidly decreasing, the longest rays equalling the base of the first 
 twelve rays of the same fin, all the rays branched except a few of the 
 first and last ; caudal fin small ; rounded at the end, the middle ray 
 about the length of the longest rays of the dorsal. Ventrals com- 
 mencing in a line under the left eye j appearing like a continuation 
 of the anal, to which it is slightly connected. Anal arising under 
 the preoperculum, answering to the dorsal and terminating in the 
 same manner under the base of the tail. Pectorals about half the 
 length of the head, all the rays branched except the first, the third 
 and fourth longest. Lateral line taking a strong curve over the pec- 
 torals, after which it passes straight to the middle caudal ray ; under 
 jaw longest ascending obliquely to meet the upper ; teeth small and 
 fine, placed in many rows in front, and a few on the vomer forming 
 a dense cluster ; gape rather wide, maxillary very oblique ; orbits 
 round, the lower one rather in advance of the upper ; basal and pos- 
 terior margins of the preoperculum meeting at a very obtuse angle ; 
 operculum terminating in a blunt point over the base of the pecto- 
 rals ; upper surface of the body very rough, presenting a velvet-like 
 appearance ; scales ciliated, small, adherent, with their free margins 
 directing outwards, extending along the rays of the fins, as well as 
 on the cheeks, eye-lids, and jaws. Number of fin rays 
 
 D.93; P. 11; V.6; A. 74; C. 14. 
 
 This species has been for a long time confounded by natu- 
 ralists with the Rhombus punctatus or Bloch's Topknot, which 
 it, at first sight, very much resembles ; but, when closely 
 compared, thereis found a wide difference between them. Mr 
 Yarrell was the first to point out the error in which ichthyo- 
 logists had previously laboured, and has given an excel- 
 lent figure of both species in the second volume of his Bri- 
 
378 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 tish Fishes. Mulleins Topknot is distinguished from Bloch's 
 Topknot, in the under surface of the body being perfectly 
 smooth, and in the first ray of the dorsal fin not being 
 longer than the second ; whereas, in the latter species, the 
 under surface is rough, with ciliated scales, and the first 
 ray of the dorsal fin is about three times as long as the se- 
 cond ray. 
 
 There is no other species with which the present one 
 could well be mistaken, in consequence of its very sin- 
 gular and striking appearance. In the Edinburgh market 
 it receives the name of the Little Black Hairy Fluke, and 
 is very rarely seen except during stormy weather. It has 
 been taken several times on the English coast, and, accord- 
 ing to Mr Yarrell, once on the coast of the county of Down 
 in Ireland. It inhabits deep and rocky ground, and seldom 
 takes a bait. Those which have fallen under my observation 
 were taken in the Firth of Forth, in crab-cages, generally 
 near Inchkeith, but not beyond Inchcolme. They feed on 
 small shells and star-fish. Their flesh is soft, and insipid to 
 the taste. 
 
 GENUS SOLE A. Both eyes on the right side ; dorsal 
 fin commencing over the upper lip, and reaching to the 
 caudal. 
 
 SOLEA VULGARIS. THE SOLE. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper side of the body dark brown ; pecto- 
 ral tipped with black ; greatest breadth not half the length. 
 
 Description. From a specimen thirteen inches and a half in length. 
 Breadth, fins included, six inches. Head about one-seventh of the 
 whole length. Colour of the back dark brown ; under surface pure 
 white. Dorsal fin commencing over the upper lip, running down 
 the back, to be connected with the caudal rays ; the middle rays 
 rather the longest, equalling the length of the base of the four first 
 rays of the same fin. Caudal small, rounded at the end ; all the rays 
 
THE SOLE. 379 
 
 branched, except two or three of the short lateral ones ; pectorals 
 small, about as long as the middle rays of the dorsal ; ventrals placed 
 in advance of the pectorals, appearing as if a continuation of the 
 anal, but separated from it by a deep notch, in which is placed the 
 vent. Anal commencing in a line under the base of the pectorals, 
 answering to the dorsal, and terminating nearly in the same line ; 
 snout obtuse and rounded. Mouth rather small, irregular; jaws 
 nearly of equal length ; teeth very small and fine, placed in many 
 rows in front ; on the eye-side they are entirely wanting ; gill-cover 
 rounded ; eyes small, the left rather in advance ; the right, situated 
 nearly over the angle of the mouth ; left side of the head, furnished 
 with numerous white cirri ; scales small and adherent, finely ciliated 
 at their free margins, rendering the whole back rough to the touch 
 when the hand is passed from tail to head ; lateral line straight 
 throughout its course, excepting at the commencement, where it 
 takes a high curve under the seventh or eighth ray of the dorsal. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 80; P.8; V. 5; A. 67; C. 18. 
 
 There are few marine fishes better known than the Com- 
 mon Sole, which is universally esteemed as a delicate, whole- 
 some, and well-flavoured article of food, especially when 
 in season. It is found to inhabit the Baltic, the whole 
 of the Scotch and English shores, and as far southwards 
 as the Mediterranean. It frequents sandy ground, where 
 it feeds on small shells and Crustacea, and possessing no 
 swimming-bladder it keeps close to the bottom. At the 
 mouth of the Firth of Forth, soles are taken with the 
 net, but in sparing numbers, falling far short of the de- 
 mand required in the Edinburgh market. A solitary 
 specimen is occasionally found on lines set for haddocks, 
 and then generally of large size ; one of twenty-two inches 
 in length was caught a short time since near the Bass, 
 the skin of which is now preserved, being the largest ex- 
 ample that had been seen in that neighbourhood for many 
 years ; yet on the south coast of England they have been 
 taken considerably larger ; one of twenty-six inches long, 
 and eleven inches and a half wide, and weighing nine 
 
380 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 pounds, is recorded to have been seen at Totness in 1826. 
 Along the Devonshire coast these fish are taken in great 
 abundance, particularly off Brixham and Torbay, where 
 trawl-nets are principally used, and the numbers thus cap- 
 tured are found sufficient to supply the different mar- 
 kets within a distance of fifty miles. Soles have been found 
 to live and thrive well in fresh-water ponds, and to grow 
 thicker in proportion than those at sea. They shed their 
 spawn in March, when they remain unfit for the table till 
 the end of May, after which they increase in quality with 
 the advance of the season. Those about a foot in length 
 are considered better food than the larger ones. The dried 
 skin of the Sole is much used for fining coffee, and is, for 
 that purpose, a good substitute for isinglass. 
 
 FAMILY VII. DISCOBOLI.- Eyes placed one on each 
 side of the head ; ventral fins united in a disk-like form ; 
 skin without scales. 
 
 GENUS CYCLOPTERUS*Body deep; rough with 
 osseous tubercles. 
 
 CYCLOPTERUS LUMPUS.* THE LUMP-FISH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Back elevated, with a row of large, conical, 
 osseous tubercles, arranged along the summit, in front of the dorsal 
 fin. 
 
 Description. From a female specimen nineteen inches in length ; 
 greatest depth ten inches. Colour of the back dusky blue j belly 
 yellowish- white, approaching to red ; dorsal and caudal dusky ; 
 irides pale yellow. Body remarkably deep and thick j back elevat- 
 ed, and rather compressed, more so towards the dorsal ridge, along 
 which, in front of the dorsal fin, is placed a row of conical, osseous 
 tubercles, slightly granulated, about seven or eight in number. Dor- 
 sal fin commencing very remote from the head ; the first and second 
 
 * Cydopterus lumpus, Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Penn., Don., Flem. Lump- 
 sucker, Sea-owl, Hen Padte (female), Cock Padle (male). 
 
THE LUMP-FISH. 381 
 
 rays simple, the rest branched, the fourth the longest, equalling the 
 length of the base of the fin, the last about half the length of the 
 third. Caudal fin rounded at the end, the middle ray as long as the 
 fourth ray of the dorsal, all branched except the two first on each 
 side ; base of the pectorals very broad, passing downwards and for- 
 wards beneath the throat, where it partly conceals the disk of the 
 ventrals ; the first ray longest, equalling the length of the base of 
 the anal fin, the rest gradually diminishing, the last very short; anal 
 fin commencing under the fourth ray of the dorsal and ending at a 
 distance of half the length of the fin from the caudal ; in other re- 
 spects it answers to the dorsal ; ventrals united, forming together a 
 circular disk, with a funnel-shaped cavity in the middle, placed im- 
 mediately under the base of the pectorals ; the rays of the dorsal, 
 caudal, anal, and pectoral fins, furnished with a number of small, 
 rough, osseous tubercles, diminishing in size as they approach the 
 summits. Mouth broad ; under jaw rather the longest ; teeth small 
 and fine, placed in three or four rows in front of each jaw ; eyes si- 
 tuated behind the angle of the mouth, and in a line with the upper 
 corner of the operculum ; gill-opening extending half-way down the 
 base of the pectorals ; skin covered with a number of granulated, os- 
 seous tubercles of various sizes, giving a roughness to the surface 
 when the hand is passed in either direction. Immediately over the 
 eye a row of large tubercles commences, which runs down the sides 
 to the base of the caudal fin ; over the base of the pectorals another 
 row commences, which terminates at the same point as the first ; on 
 the side of the abdomen a third row is placed, which does not extend 
 beyond the commencement of the anal fin. A little in front of the dor- 
 sal fin, across the back, is placed a deep, ragged looking notch ; in a 
 vertical line under which is situated the vent. Number of fin rays 
 D. 10; P. 20; A. 10; C. 11. 
 
 The male fish is much smaller than the female, and when 
 in spawning condition, the whole under surface is of a bright 
 red, particularly the ventral disk to which the fishermen 
 give the name of the Rose, in consequence of a supposed re- 
 semblance to that flower. In the northern seas the Lump- 
 Fish is said to be a very common species, when, in the 
 months of April and May, considerable numbers are taken 
 and made use of as food. It is sometimes, in this country, 
 eaten in the salted state; but, by the Greenlanders, it 
 is held in higher estimation when perfectly fresh. They 
 
382 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 also eat its roe after having reduced it, by boiling, to a pulp. 
 It is a fish well known along most of the British shores ; 
 but is found less frequent towards the south. On the west 
 coast of Scotland, sometimes as many as two dozen are 
 taken in the salmon- nets at almost every tide, principally 
 in the month of June, when they seek the sandy ground to 
 deposit their spawn. The fishermen boil them down with 
 vegetables for their pigs, and consider them to be fattening 
 food. The flesh when cooked, is soft and very rich, and is 
 considered by some of the inhabitants of Edinburgh as a 
 luxury ; but there are few stomachs with which it agrees, 
 in consequence of its oily nature. The males are considered 
 the best for the table. 
 
 The Lump Fish or Padle, as it is named in Scotland, is 
 often taken in the Firth of Forth in the salmon-nets at Mus- 
 selburgh and Queensferry, generally about the month of 
 June, and entirely disappears after the month of August. 
 It seldom takes a bait ; its food consists of marine worms 
 and small fish, and as its intestinal canal is longer than that 
 of most other fishes, it is well calculated to sustain hunger 
 for a considerable time. In the winter season it conceals 
 itself under rocks, or attached to their base by means of its 
 ventral disk, with which it adheres with considerable force. 
 Pennant, on throwing one of these fishes into a pail of water, 
 found it adhered so firmly to the bottom, that on taking it by 
 the tail the whole vessel was lifted, though it held some gallons. 
 From its being a heavy inactive fish, and possessing but few 
 or no means of defence, it readily becomes the prey of seals, 
 squali, and other voracious inhabitants of the sea. 
 
THE SEA-SNAIL. 383 
 
 GENUS LIPARIS. Body rather elongated, smooth, with- 
 out tubercles. 
 
 LIPARIS VULGARIS.* THE SEA-SNAIL. 
 
 Specific Cliaracter. Dorsal and anal fins connected with the caudal. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length ; greatest 
 depth one inch and a quarter ; head not quite one-fifth of the whole 
 length. Colour of the body pale yellowish-brown, mottled and spot- 
 ted with dark brown ; belly dirty white. Dorsal fin commencing in 
 a line over the middle of the pectorals, running down the back to be 
 connected with the caudal rays ; the first ray very short ; the suc- 
 ceeding rays gradually increasing in height to about a little more 
 than half-way down the fin ; the rest of the rays very gradually di- 
 minishing, the last two or three rather more rapidly; the longest 
 rays equalling the length of the base of the first seven rays of the 
 anal. Pectorals very broad, extending downwards and forward un- 
 der the throat ; the first twelve or thirteen rays nearly of equal length, 
 as long as the middle ray of the caudal ; the rest gradually diminish- 
 ing as far as the last but six, which are very much produced. Anal 
 commencing in a line under the seventh ray of the dorsal, and run- 
 ning down to be united to the caudal, a little farther back than the 
 termination of the last dorsal ray ; ventrals united, forming a concave 
 disk, placed under the throat between the termination of the pecto- 
 rals ; caudal rounded at the end. Jaws about equal ; teeth small 
 and closely set, arranged in two or three rows in front of each jaw ; 
 eyes small, placed rather behind the angle of the mouth ; operculum 
 ending in a small point directed backwards over the base of the pec- 
 toral; body covered with an unctuous, thin, loose, skin, without 
 scales or tubercles of any description ; gill-opening very small, en- 
 tirely closed in front of the base of the pectorals. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 36; P. 34; A. 28; C. 12; Cseca 16. 
 
 This fish is occasionally taken in the Forth above Alloa, 
 in nets used for the capturing of spirlings ; but does not ap- 
 pear by any means common. A few examples have also 
 been found in the cruives at Kincardine along with other 
 small fishes. According to Mr Low, it is found in Ork- 
 ney, in many places under stones, but more particular- 
 
 * Liparis vulgaris, Yarr., Cuv. Cyclopterus liparis, Linn., Penn., Don., 
 Jen. Unctuous sucker. 
 
384 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 ly at the point of the Ness at Stromness, where they may 
 be picked up by dozens. It has been observed as far north 
 as Greenland, as well as on the southern shores of England. 
 It sheds its spawn in February, and feeds on small shells 
 and marine insects. It is chiefly used as bait for other fishes. 
 This species very much resembles the L. Montagui^ with 
 which it is likely to be confounded, but in the latter species 
 the dorsal and anal fins are unconnected with the caudal. 
 
 III. APODES. 
 
 Ventral fins wanting. 
 
 FAMILY VIII. ANGUILLID^E. Body very much 
 elongated, eel- shaped ; scales scarcely apparent. 
 
 GENUS ANGUILLA. Dorsal commencing considerably 
 behind the pectorals, and forming with the anal a caudal ; 
 lower jaw longest. 
 
 ANGUILLA ACUTIROSTRIS.* THE SHARP-NOSED EEL. 
 
 Specific Characters. Snout sharp ; gape extending to beneath the 
 middle of the eye ; the distance before the dorsal about one-third of 
 the entire length. 
 
 Description. From a specimen thirty inches in length. From the 
 point of the snout to the base of the pectorals, about one-ninth of 
 the whole length, and one-third as far as the origin of the dorsal. 
 Colour of the back as far as a little below the lateral line, dark olive ; 
 belly yellowish-white ; pectorals dark. Snout sharp, compressed at 
 the sides. Teeth small and closely set, placed in one row on the 
 sides of each jaw, and in many rows in front ; under jaw longest ; 
 
 * Anguilla acutirostris* Yarr., Jen. Muraena anyuilla, Linn., Penn. 
 Anguilla vulgaris, Flem. 
 
THE SHARP-NOSED EEL. 385 
 
 angle of the mouth extending back to beneath the middle of the eye ; 
 pectorals rounded ; all the rays finely branched. Dorsal fin com- 
 mencing at about one-third of the whole length from the snout, and 
 running down the back to form, with the assistance of the anal, the 
 caudal fin ; the terminating rays rather the longest. Anal fin com- 
 mencing a little in front of the middle, and answering to the dorsal ; 
 a number of mucous pores about the head and sides ; gill-opening 
 small, placed in front of the lower half of the base of the pectoral 
 fin y scales small, scarcely perceptible ; skin soft and very slimy, 
 marked with a number of capillary lines arranged in threes, giving an 
 appearance as if the skin had been finely plaited ; lateral line straight 
 throughout its course ; ventral fins wanting. 
 
 There is a variety of Eel frequently met with, known by 
 the name of Silver Eel, with the back of a light colour, the 
 sides of a silvery lustre and subtranslucent, and the pecto- 
 rals nearly black ; in other respects it answers to the above 
 description of the common Sharp-nosed species. Eels are 
 said not to exist in the Arctic Regions. They abound, how- 
 ever, in many of the European rivers, and are caught in 
 immense numbers in Holland as well as in the rivers emp- 
 tying themselves into the Baltic, and form a considerable 
 article of trade. They frequent nearly the whole of the 
 rivers and lakes throughout Britain, and are found more or 
 less numerous in almost every part of the world. In all the 
 large towns in England they are much sought after as an 
 article of food, and by some are held in high estimation, 
 particularly when cooked by potting or stewing them ; 
 but, on account of the large proportion of oil which they 
 contain, are extremely unwholesome, and apt to create se- 
 vere indigestion, and alimentary disturbance from their use. 
 In Scotland, the Eel is seldom or never eaten, under an er- 
 roneous impression of its not being a true fish, but a kind 
 of water-serpent, and so a prejudice is excited against it. 
 
 This fish inhabits both the river and sea, and, in the 
 month of April, deposits its spawn in the brackish waters. 
 
 VOL. VII. B b 
 
386 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 In June, the young are seen from two to three inches in 
 length, making their way up the fresh- water rivers in innu- 
 merable multitudes, keeping a few inches below the surface, 
 and at a short distance from the bank. No obstacle ap- 
 pears to arrest their progress. They have been known to 
 climb up posts, and to ascend into trees, and from thence 
 let themselves drop down into the adjoining stream. They 
 have also been observed crawling over land from one pond 
 to another, and Albernus tells us, that he has known them 
 to collect together under a hay-rick, to keep themselves 
 warm, yet all perished through excess of cold. In Novem- 
 ber, December, and January, if the season be mild, Eels re- 
 descend the rivers in their passage to the sea, and are then 
 taken in great numbers in cages and other snares set for 
 that purpose ; but if the weather be cold, and the water low 
 and clear, they are found to bury themselves under the sur- 
 face of the mud, frequently at a depth of from four to six 
 inches, and there remain during the frost. After a heavy fall 
 of rain, so as to discolour the water and increase the size of 
 the rivers, these fish leave their hiding places and range about 
 in search of food ; this they do with greater eagerness dur- 
 ing the night than by day. They feed on worms, insects, 
 and carcasses, and it is a common occurrence to find in the 
 abdomen of a dead cat or dog, which has remained under 
 water for a week or more, several pounds of Eels. 
 
 A most extravagant idea was entertained amongst the 
 ancients, as regards the generation of eels. Aristotle be- 
 lieved that they sprang from the mud ; Pliny that the 
 scrapings of their bodies which they left on rocks, were 
 animated and became young eels ; other ancients supposed 
 that they sprang from grass, horse-hair, and carcasses of 
 animals ; Helmont believed that they came from May-dew ; 
 Rondelet says they couple after the manner of serpents, and 
 
THE BROAD-NOSED EEL. 387 
 
 that they are viviparous. But it has been now sufficiently 
 proved by Mr Yarrell that the generation of these fishes is 
 effected in the ordinary course of nature, and that they are 
 oviparous. 
 
 Eels are said sometimes to attain to the length of six feet 
 three inches. They are very abundant in the Firth of Forth, 
 as well as in every river and streamlet which enter it. 
 
 ANGUILLA LATIROSTRIS.* THE BROAD-NOSED EEL. 
 
 Specific Characters. Snout broad and rounded ; gape extending to 
 beneath the posterior part of the orbit ; the distance before the dor- 
 sal, more than one- third of the entire length. 
 
 Description. From a specimen three feet in length. The distance 
 from the point of the snout to the base of the pectorals, about one- 
 seventh of the entire length. Colour of the back of a dark olive ; 
 belly yellowish- white ; pectorals dusky green (the whole fish is liable 
 to great variation as to colour). Dorsal fin commencing, at a dis- 
 tance from the point of the snout, of rather more than one-third of 
 the whole length of the fish, and ending by uniting with the caudal; the 
 terminating rays rather the longest. Anal fin commencing close be- 
 hind the vent, and answering to the dorsal ; caudal formed by the 
 continuation of the dorsal and anal ; pectorals rounded, the middle 
 ray equalling the length of the gape j gill-opening small, situated in 
 front of the lower portion of the base of the pectorals. Head rather 
 flattened ; jaws broad and rounded ; the lower one the longest ; teeth 
 small, closely set, placed in many rows in each jaw. Lateral line 
 not very apparent ; a few mucous pores about the head and throat, 
 and over the pectorals ; scales very small and adherent, deeply im- 
 bedded in the skin j the whole surface of the body covered with a 
 thick mucous secretion ; ventral fins wanting. Number of fin rays 
 
 P. 17 ;B., A., and C. 480. 
 
 In the Firth of Forth, the Broad-nosed Eel is less fre- 
 quently met with than the Sharp-nosed species, but in 
 other respects their habits appear similar. 
 
 * Anguilla latirostris, Yarr., Jen. 
 
388 FISHfcJS OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 GENUS CONGER. Dorsal fin commencing over the end 
 of the pectorals ; and forming with the anal a pointed cau- 
 dal ; lower jaw not projecting beyond the upper. 
 
 CONGER VULGARIS.* THE CONGER-EEL. 
 
 Specific Character. Dorsal and anal fins margined with black. 
 
 Description. From a specimen twenty-one inches in length. Co- 
 lour of the back and sides a pale yellowish-grey ; dorsal and anal 
 fins margined with deep black, which is very conspicuously seen in 
 young specimens ; lateral line spotted with white, frequently very 
 obscure. Dorsal fin commencing immediately over the end of the 
 pectorals, all the rays short, nearly of equal length throughout, ex- 
 cept where they terminate to unite with the anal, to form the acute 
 pointed caudal. Anal fin commencing close behind the vent, in a 
 line under the seventieth ray of the dorsal, and answering in other re- 
 spects to that fin ; ventrals wanting ; pectorals rounded, the middle 
 ray about the length of the lower jaw, as far as the angle of the 
 mouth. Eyes large ; head depressed ; snout narrow towards the ex- 
 tremity ; lips fleshy ; lower jaw rather the shortest ; gape wide ; 
 angle of the mouth in a line under the posterior margin of the iris ; 
 teeth blunt, irregular, small, and numerous, placed in one or two 
 rows on the sides of each jaw, and in many rows in front, especially 
 on the upper jaw, when the teeth are rather longer and larger ; those 
 on the vomer extending but a short way back. Lateral line straight 
 throughout its course, from the point of the upper jaw to the base 
 of the pectorals, about one-seventh of the whole length of the fish ; 
 skin thick and firm, covered with a mucous secretion ; gill- opening 
 small, situated in front of the lower part of the base of the pectorals. 
 Number of fin rays 
 
 P. 17 ; D., A., and C. 646. Vert. 152." 
 
 The Conger is a common fish on many of the rocky parts 
 of the British coast. It is found in the Shetland and Ork- 
 ney Isles, and along the east and western shores of Scot- 
 land, but in no great plenty. It abounds on the coast of 
 Cornwall, where " it is not uncommon for a boat with three 
 men to bring on shore from five hundredweight to two tons," 
 the fishing being performed during the night. " They are 
 
 * Conger vulgaris, Yarr., Cuv. Murcena Conger, Linn., Penn., Don. 
 Anguilla Conger, Jen. 
 
THE CONGER EEL. 389 
 
 taken principally with long lines, called by the fishermen 
 bulters ; each line is about five hundred feet long, with 
 sixty hooks placed eight feet apart from each other, baited 
 with pilchards or sand-eels, and not unfrequently such a 
 number of bulters are fastened together as to reach a mile 
 in length." Congers are extremely voracious, preying on 
 all kinds of small fish, as well as shells and dead animal 
 matter. A fine specimen was taken in the month of No- 
 vember 1834, at a short distance below Alloa, and sent to the 
 Edinburgh market, where, on opening its stomach, sixty- 
 eight spirlings were found in a perfectly fresh state ; they 
 were consequently exposed for sale, and soon obtained a 
 purchaser. The Conger is remarkably tenacious of life, 
 and will live several hours out of water. The fishermen in 
 Cornwall are aware of this ; and are said to be in the habit 
 of striking the fish on the abdomen, which proves an effec- 
 tual mode of causing instantaneous death. The Firth of 
 Forth is an excellent nursery for the Conger, in conse- 
 quence of the rich feeding ground between Alloa and Stir- 
 ling, where, in the months of July and August, the young 
 are frequently taken with the hook from one to five pounds 
 in weight. Specimens have been taken occasionally in the 
 Firth weighing seventy pounds ; they are said to grow to 
 the length of ten feet, and to acquire a weight of one hun- 
 dred and thirty pounds. These fish spawn in December 
 and January ; and are frequently brought to the Edinburgh 
 market, where one of four feet in length will fetch a price 
 of from a shilling to eighteen pence ; the flesh is considered 
 good, but in general rather dry. A young conger- eel from 
 one to two feet in length, is distinguished from the common 
 eel in the dorsal fin commencing over the end of the pec- 
 torals ; in the under jaw not projecting beyond the upper 
 jaw ; in the caudal being acutely pointed ; in the dorsal 
 
390 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 and anal fins being margined with black ; and in the end 
 of the pectoral rays being half-way between the point of 
 the snout and the commencement of the anal fin ; none of 
 which characters are possessed by the common eel. 
 
 GENUS AMMODYTES. Dorsal and anal fins separat- 
 ed from the caudal by a short space ; caudal fin forked. 
 
 AMMODYTES TOBIANUS.* THE SAND-EEL. 
 
 Specific Character. Dorsal fin commencing in a line over the ex- 
 tremities of the pectorals. 
 
 Description. From a specimen eleven inches in length. Head, 
 measuring from the point of the under jaw to the posterior extremity 
 of the operculum, one-fifth of the whole length, caudal excluded ; 
 body elongated, somewhat of a square form, with the angles round- 
 ed, nearly of equal thickness throughout. Colour of the back dusky 
 green ; sides and belly silvery- white. Dorsal fin commencing in a 
 line over the end of the pectoral rays, and running down the back 
 to within a short interval of the caudal rays ; all the rays simple, and 
 nearly of equal length throughout, being about half the length of the 
 pectorals. Anal fin commencing immediately under the twenty- 
 ninth ray of the dorsal, and ending a little before the caudal, all the 
 rays simple, answering to the dorsal. Caudal fin deeply forked, the 
 middle ray about half the length of the longest ray of the same fin ; 
 pectorals pointed ; ventrals wanting. Snout sharp ; gape wide ; 
 under jaw projecting considerably beyond the upper, and ending in 
 a strong point ; maxillaries long ; pedicels of the intermaxillaries 
 very short ; upper jaw turns up at its extremity when the jaws are 
 widely expanded, causing the maxillaries to become vertical ; vomer 
 with one long tooth directed forwards and downwards, and bifur- 
 cated at its extremity; eyes small; orbits round, situated rather 
 nearer the point of the under jaw than to the posterior margin of the 
 gill-cover ; suboperculum large, marked with a number of diverging 
 striae, terminating in a rounded point, directed over the base of the 
 pectorals ; gill-opening large ; body covered with small scales ; late- 
 ral line taking its origin behind the head, and running close under 
 the base of the dorsal fin ; throughout its whole course down the 
 back, along the middle of each side a second line is visible taking 
 a course parallel to the former. Number of fin rays 
 
 D. 58; P. 12; A. 31 ; C. 18. 
 
 * Ammodytes tobianus, Yarr., Jen. Homer , Wide-mouthed Launce. 
 
THE SAND-LAUNCE. 391 
 
 This species is found in many situations along the east 
 and west coasts of Scotland ; it has been taken on the Ber- 
 wickshire coast, on the coasts of Yorkshire and Suffolk, 
 and as far south as on the shores of Devon and Cornwall. 
 It is seldom or never observed to frequent rocky places, or 
 where the ground is hard and stony, but is found almost 
 invariably on fine sandy banks where it conceals itself by 
 burrowing under the surface, at a depth of from four to six 
 inches. It is generally considered a rare fish on most of 
 the British coasts, compared with the A. lancea, the next 
 species to be described. It is, however, not unfrequently 
 met with in the Firth of Forth, more particularly in the 
 sands at Musselburgh and Portobello, where numbers are 
 raked out from under the sand, after the ebbing of the tide. 
 In Edinburgh they receive the name of korners, and are 
 brought to market in August, and sold by the dozen. The 
 flesh is wholesome and palatable ; they shed their spawn 
 in September. Specimens are occasionally met with mea- 
 suring fourteen inches in length. 
 
 AMMODYTES LANCEA.* THE SAND-LAUNCE. 
 
 Specific Character. Dorsal fin commencing- in a line over the 
 middle of the pectorals. 
 
 Description. From a specimen six inches in length. Head one- 
 fifth of the entire length, caudal not included ; body elongated, ap- 
 proaching to square, with the angles rounded, nearly of equal thick- 
 ness throughout. Colour of the back and upper part of the sides 
 dusky green ; belly silvery- white ; caudal of an olive tinge. Dorsal 
 fin commencing over the middle of the pectorals, or frequently over 
 the lower third, and terminating at a short distance from the caudal ; 
 all the rays simple, and nearly of equal height, about half the length 
 of the long caudal rays. Anal fin arising immediately under the 
 twenty-ninth ray of the dorsal, and ending in a line with the las 
 ray of the same fin ; all the rays simple, the anterior ones, excep 
 
 * Ammodytes lancea, Yarr., Jen. Ammodytes tobianus, Penn., Flem 
 Sand- Eel, Higgle, Small-mouthed Launce. 
 
392 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the first two, rather the longest ; caudal fin forked, the middle ray 
 rather longer than the longest ray of the same fin ; the lobes rounded ; 
 all the rays finely branched, except the short lateral ones, which are 
 simple ; pectorals pointed ; ventrals wanting. Head long and nar- 
 row ; snout conical ; gape small ; under jaw longest when the jaws 
 are closed; mouth protractile; maxillaries short; pedicels of the 
 intermaxillaries rather long ; when the mouth is widely opened, the 
 end of the upper jaw does not turn up as is observed under similar 
 circumstances in the last-described species, but projects forwards and 
 slightly downwards ; one tooth on the vomer bifurcated at its ex- 
 tremity; no perceptible teeth on the jaws; eyes round, situated 
 nearer the point of the snout than to the end of the gill-covers ; sub- 
 operculum large, beautifully marked with diverging strise, terminat- 
 ing in a rounded point, directed over the base of the pectorals ; la- 
 teral line commencing behind the head and running parallel with, 
 and immediately beneath, the base of the dorsal fin ; below it, about 
 half-way down the side, is observed another line taking a similar 
 course ; scales small and adherent, arranged in oblique lines. Num- 
 ber of fin rays 
 
 D. 64; P. 13; A. 26; C. 16. 
 
 Two species of Sand-Eels, inhabiting our British coasts, 
 have been for a long time confounded, under the name of 
 Ammodytes tobianus, but which appear now to be clearly 
 understood ; M. Lesauvage of Caen being the first natu- 
 ralist to point out the characters in which the two species 
 differ. The A. lancea is distinguished from A. fobianns in 
 seldom exceeding the length of six inches, in the dorsal fin 
 commencing over the middle, or last quarter of the pecto- 
 rals ; in the upper jaw not turning up when the mouth is 
 widely opened ; in the maxillaries being short and the pe- 
 dicels rather long. Whereas in A. tobianus the length fre- 
 quently exceeds thirteen inches ; the dorsal commences over 
 the extremities of the pectorals ; when the mouth is widely 
 opened, the end of the upper jaw turns up very conspicu- 
 ously ; the maxillaries are very long, and the pedicels very 
 short. 
 
 The Ammodytes lancea has been observed in the Orkney 
 
THE SAND-LAUNCE. 393 
 
 Isles by Mr Low, who records it as being a common fish, 
 and constantly used as bait for other fishes. It is exces- 
 sively common on the shores of Scotland, as well as on 
 the east, west, and south coasts of England ; it also occurs 
 along the coast of Ireland, and, according to Mr Lukis, 
 on the authority of Mr Yarrell, both species are met 
 with at Guernsey. It, like the A. tobianus, inhabits sandy 
 ground, and conceals itself under the surface. These fish 
 are much sought after by fishermen, who put much va- 
 lue on them as bait ; and on the south coast of Devon 
 they are taken in such numbers with a net, that " they 
 are usually sold to Dieppe fishermen for twenty pence the 
 bushel." They are very plentiful in the summer months in 
 the Firth of Forth, especially on the sands above Queens- 
 ferry, where the A. tobianus is never found. At Mussel- 
 burgh and Portobello the two species inhabit the same 
 locality. They are caught after the recess of the tide in 
 the wet sand, by scraping away the surface with a rake or 
 a stout stick, when they are observed twisting about with 
 the greatest activity, and will, if not soon taken up, conceal 
 themselves again beneath the sand. I have seen these fish 
 swimming about in large shoals, but they refused to take 
 a bait of any description. Their food is said to be marine 
 worms and very small fishes. They frequently appear in 
 the Edinburgh market during the summer months, and are 
 sold by the measure. On the south coast of England they are 
 salted and dried for winter use. The period of their spawn- 
 ing has been differently stated by different authors ; I have 
 not myself been able to detect ova in them sufficiently ad- 
 vanced to form an opinion as to the period of their deposi- 
 tion. 
 
304 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 ORDER III. OSTEODERMI. 
 
 Operculum large ; branchial opening very small ; body 
 mailed with transverse angular plates ; snout much pro- 
 duced ; one dorsal with simple, slender rays. 
 
 GENUS SYNGNATHUS. Body slender; snout pro- 
 longed into a tube, with the mouth placed at the extremity ; 
 gill-opening towards the nape. 
 
 SYNGNATHUS ACUS.* THE GREAT PIPE-FISH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Pectoral fins present ; crown of the head ca- 
 rinated. 
 
 Description. From a specimen fourteen inches an da half in length; 
 head measuring from the point of the snout, to the posterior ex- 
 tremity of the operculum, about one-eighth of the entire length ; 
 body anteriorly heptangular ; at the caudal extremity quadrangular. 
 Colour of the back yellowish-brown, with sixteen dark broad patches, 
 half an inch in breadth, placed a quarter of an inch from each other; 
 belly pale yellow. Upper surface of the back flat, with a ridge on 
 each side, commencing at the gill-opening, over the base of the pec- 
 torals, and running down as far as the last ray but four of the dorsal 
 fin where it terminates ; immediately behind the pectoral fin a se- 
 cond ridge takes its origin and runs parallel with the one on the back, 
 as far as in a line under the fifth or sixth ray of the dorsal, where it 
 becomes abruptly lost ; under the pectoral a third ridge commences, 
 which passes down the whole length of the body, and ends at the 
 base of the caudal fin ; on the under surface of the belly a fourth 
 ridge is observed, which begins under the throat and terminates at 
 the vent ; a little above the end of the second ridge, and in a line 
 under the third ray of the dorsal fin, another ridge commences, and 
 terminates at the base of the tail. Crown of the head very conspi- 
 cuously carinated, by a ridge commencing at the nape, passing over 
 the head and becoming lost between the eyes ; eyes rather large, or- 
 bits rising above into a sharp granulated ridge, forming a depression 
 
 a* Syngnathus acus, Linn., Yarr., Jen., Penn. Tangle-Fish, Scotland, 
 a name so given by the fishermen, in consequence of its being found under 
 seaweed, which they call tangle. 
 
THE GREAT PIPE-FISH. 395 
 
 between ; on the anterior part of each eye is placed a small spine 
 directed laterally. Snout produced about half the width of the 
 head ; mouth very small placed quite at the extremity ; lower jaw 
 shortest, ascending to meet the upper; teeth wanting; a small granu- 
 lated ridge on the upper part of the snout, extending from the middle 
 of the upper lip, to between the eyes, where it is joined by another 
 small granulated ridge passing down from the summit of the cra- 
 nium ; on each side of this latter ridge, in another which terminates 
 at the upper and posterior margin of the orbit ; operculum large ; 
 very much resembling a mussel-shell in fonn, marked with granula- 
 ted and diverging strise ; gill-opening small, situated in a line over 
 the posterior margin of the operculum. Body mailed with about 
 sixty-three osseous plates, beautifully striated. Dorsal fin situated 
 immediately before the middle of the back, all the rays soft and 
 simple ; the middle ones rather the longest ; the base of the fin 
 equalling the length of the head, snout included ; the last ray placed 
 half-way between the tip of the nose and the end of the caudal rays ; 
 vent in a line under the sixth dorsal ray, and immediately before the 
 anal fin, which is very small and scarcely visible, consisting of only 
 three short, simple rays. In the male there is a long longitudinal slit 
 extending from behind the vent, to nearly half-way down towards 
 the tail ; caudal and pectoral fins rather small, and rounded at the 
 end ; ventrals wanting. Number of fin rays 
 D. 43; P. 12; A. 3; C. 12. 
 
 This species of Pipe-fish is not unfrequently met with 
 in the Firth of Forth, where it is found lurking under sea- 
 weed in shallow water. It is occasionally taken on the 
 Portobello sands, in shrimping nets, but in warm weather 
 it keeps farther from land. We are informed by Mr Yar- 
 rell, that the male differs from the female, in the belly from 
 the vent to the tail fin being much broader, and in having, 
 for about two- thirds of its length, two soft flaps, which fold 
 together and form a false belly. They breed in summer ; 
 the females casting their roe into the false belly of the males. 
 Early in the summer, roe is found in those without a false 
 belly, but never any in those with it ; but later in the sum- 
 mer no ova are found in the females, but in the false belly 
 of the males only. They begin to breed when only four or 
 
396 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 five inches in length. Mr Yarrell has ascertained that the 
 males of Syngnathns acus carry their living young in the 
 anal pouch, even after they have been hatched there. He 
 has been frequently told by fishermen that on opening them, 
 they had found the living young within the pouch, which 
 they called the belly, and that when these young were 
 shaken out into the water over the side of the boat, they 
 did not swim away, but when the parent fish was held in 
 the water in a favourable position, the young would again 
 re-enter the pouch. 
 
 The Great Pipe-fish I have also found on the coast of 
 Berwick, on the Devonshire coast, and on the shores of the 
 Solway ; it feeds on small mollusca, minute Crustacea, and 
 the ova of other fishes. It is of little or no value either as 
 bait or food. 
 
 SYNGNATHUS TYPHLE.* THE DEEP-NOSED PIPE-FISH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Pectoral fins present ; head not carinated, or 
 raised above the level of the back. 
 
 Description. From a specimen ten inches in length ; head mea- 
 suring from the point of the snout to the posterior extremity of the 
 operculum about one-sixth of the entire length ; body anteriorly hep- 
 tangular ; quadrangular at the caudal extremity. Colour of the back 
 and sides, greenish-yellow ; belly pale yellow. Back flat, with a 
 ridge on both sides, commencing at the gill-opening, and terminat- 
 ing at the last ray but six of the dorsal fin ; behind the pectoral fin 
 commences a second ridge which runs down the side as far as in a 
 line under the fourth dorsal ray ; at the lower extremity of the base 
 of the pectoral arises a third ridge which runs down the whole 
 length of the body, to the base of the caudal fin ; under the throat a 
 fourth ridge takes its origin, and, after running down the mesial line 
 of the abdomen, terminates at the vent ; immediately under the third 
 ray of the dorsal, and above the termination of the second ridge, 
 commences another ridge, which, after taking an oblique course for a 
 short distance, towards the last ray of the dorsal, passes straight to 
 
 Syngnathus typhle, Linn., Yarr., Jen., Don. Short Pipe-fish, Lesser 
 Pipe-fish. 
 
: THE DEEP-NOSED PIPE-FISH. 307 
 
 the caudal fin ; summit of the head not carinated or raised above the 
 level of the back ; eyes rather small, the space between flat ; a small 
 obtuse tubercle in front of each eye, from which extends a narrow 
 line to the point of the upper jaw ; extremity of the snout as deep 
 as the head ; under jaw shortest, ascending obliquely to meet the 
 upper ; the lower margin rounded. Gill-opening small, situated above 
 the upper and posterior border of the operculum ; gill-covers large, 
 finely granulated and striated, approximating under the throat ; teeth 
 not perceptible ; snout compressed, especially towards the extremity, 
 where it takes a slight turn up. Body protected by fifty-three osse- 
 ous plates, beautifully marked with fine striated lines. Dorsal fin 
 situated rather nearer the tip of the tail than to the point of the 
 snout ; the middle rays rather the longest ; the base of the fin as long 
 as from the tip of the lower jaw to the posterior margin of the orbit ; 
 caudal fin twice the length of the pectorals ; the middle ray about 
 twice the length of the two first lateral rays ; when expanded it pre- 
 sents at the end an angular form. Vent placed in a line under the 
 third ray of the dorsal, and immediately in front of the anal fin, which 
 is excessively minute, composed of only three rays ; ventrals wanting. 
 In the male there is a long longitudinal slit or pouch, extending a 
 considerable way down the body, and commencing close behind the 
 vent. Number of fin rays 
 D. 36; P. 13; A. 3; C. 9. 
 
 Some naturalists have very erroneously considered S. 
 typhle and S. acus as mere varieties of the same fish. In 
 S. typhle the twelfth ray of the dorsal fin is situated ex- 
 actly in the middle of the fish ; the head is not raised above 
 the level of the back ; between the eyes, perfectly flat ; the 
 upper margins of the orbits not in the slightest degree 
 raised ; the pectorals not half the length of the caudal ; base 
 of the dorsal fin considerably less than the length of the 
 head ; the caudal fin angular at the end ; the body with but 
 fifty-three osseous shields. Whereas in S. acus the last 
 ray of the dorsal fin is in the middle of the fish ; the head 
 very much raised over the gill-covers ; between the eyes a 
 deep depression, formed by the upper margins of the orbits 
 being much raised ; pectorals about the length of the cau- 
 dal ; base of the dorsal fin equalling the length of the head ; 
 
398 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the caudal rounded at the end ; and the body with sixty- 
 three osseous shields. 
 
 The Deep -nosed Pipe-Fish is rather rare in the Firth of 
 Forth, although a place apparently favourable for its habits, 
 It frequents water from three to four feet deep, where the 
 bottom is of a sandy nature and covered with the smaller 
 kinds of/wci, among which it prowls about in search of mi- 
 nute aquatic insects. I have taken them in pools, at North 
 Berwick, left by the receding of the tide, but further up 
 the Firth they seem but little known. It is a common fish 
 on the east coast of England, as well as along the shores of 
 Devonshire and Cornwall. At Brixham in the month of 
 September, I saw as many as four dozen taken at one haul 
 of a net, and I was informed at the same time by the fish- 
 ermen, that in the earlier part of the season they would 
 sometimes enclose five times that number ; which being of 
 no service, are invariably returned again to the sea. 
 
 SYNGNATHUS ^QUOREUS.* THE ^EQUOREAL PIPE-FISH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Pectoral fins wanting ; caudal obsolete ; dor- 
 sal and vent nearly in tlie middle of the entire length. 
 
 Description. " Length from twenty to twenty-four inches, readi- 
 ly distinguished from both the foregoing species by the want of the 
 pectoral and anal fins. Form slender and very much elongated ; 
 body compressed, with an acute dorsal and abdominal ridge, also 
 with three slight ridges on each side, hence the trunk from the gills 
 to the vent is octangular ; the tail is obsoletely quadrangular, becom- 
 ing almost round towards the tip, which is extremely tapering ; trans- 
 verse shields or plates, between the gills and the vent, twenty-eight 
 in number j from the vent to the extremity of the tail, sixty or more, 
 but, from the extreme minuteness of the last few not admitting of 
 being counted with exactness ; head not more than one-twelfth of 
 the entire length, without any elevated ridge on the occiput ; snout 
 narrower than the head, similar in shape to that of S. acus, but much 
 shorter in relation to the entire length of the fish ; dorsal occupying 
 
 * Syngnathus oRquoreus^ Auctorum, 
 
THE SNAKE PIPE-FISH. 
 
 nearly a middle position in the entire length, the distance from the 
 last ray to the end of the tail, at the same time, a little exceeding that 
 from the end of the snout to the commencement of the fin ; vent a 
 very little before the middle, being nearly in a vertical line with the 
 commencement of the last quarter of the dorsal fin ; tail compressed 
 at the extremity', shewing a very small rudimentary caudal fin ; the 
 rays, however, so obsolete, and so much enveloped in the common 
 skin, as to be scarcely distinguishable. (Colours} Yellowish, with 
 transverse pale lines, with dark margins, one in each joint, and ano- 
 ther down the middle of each plate, giving it the appearance of pos- 
 sessing double the number of joints it really has ; these markings, 
 however, cease, just beyond the vent." Number of fin rays 
 " D about 40 ; A. ; C. ? P. 0." Jenyns. 
 
 This fish was first recorded as British by Sir Robert Sib- 
 bald, who obtained a specimen in the Firth of Forth prior 
 to the year 1685. No other instance of its occurrence in that 
 locality has since been noticed. It has been procured in 
 Berwick Bay by Dr Johnstone, on the Devonshire coast 
 by Colonel Montagu, and on that of Cornwall by Mr Couch- 
 It is one of the rarest of our British Fishes. 
 
 SYNGNATHUS OPHIDION.* THE SNAKE PIPE-FISH. 
 
 Specific Characters Pectoral fins wanting ; caudal obsolete ; dor- 
 sal and vent before the middle of the entire length. 
 
 Description. From a specimen fifteen inches in length ; head 
 one-eleventh of the entire length; body elongated and slender; back 
 nearly flat ; abdominal ridge acute, also with three slight ridges on 
 each side ; hence the trunk from the gill to the vent is heptangu- 
 lar, and of a uniform thickness, behind the vent the body tapers, 
 and is somewhat quadrangular, becoming quite round near the ex- 
 tremity of the tail, the tip of which is compressed into a very minute 
 rudimentary caudal fin. Colour of the back and side yellowish-brown, 
 with transverse pale lines with dark margins, one in each joint, and 
 another down the middle of each plate, giving it the appearance of 
 possessing double the number of joints it really has, precisely simi- 
 lar to the markings of the JEquoreal Pipe-Fish as described by Mon- 
 tagu ; these markings cease behind the termination of the dorsal fin, 
 nor do not pass completely round the trunk, but become lost on 
 
 * Syngnathus ophidian^ Auctorum. 
 
400 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 each side of the abdominal ridge ; they are indistinctly seen on the 
 back, those on the sides being very conspicuous ; belly pale yellow. 
 First ridge commencing immediately over the gill-opening, and run- 
 ning down the side of the back, where it becomes gradually lost as 
 it approaches the extremity of the tail ; second ridge commencing at 
 the posterior margin of the operculum ; and takes a course down the 
 side as far as the vent, where it suddenly bends, after which it passes 
 down towards the end of the tail where it, like the first, becomes lost ; 
 third ridge takes its origin at a little below the commencement of the 
 second ridge, and, after running parallel with it as far as under the 
 middle of the dorsal fin, disappears at the side of the anal aperture ; 
 the fourth or abdominal ridge is more prominent than the rest, it com- 
 mences under the throat, and is lost at the anterior part of the vent. 
 The transverse plates of the trunk, between the gills and the vent, 
 twenty-eight in number ; from the vent to the extremity of the tail, 
 sixty-one (about the same number as is observed in the JEquoreal 
 Pipe-Fish}. Dorsal fin commencing considerably before the middle 
 of the entire length ; all the rays simple, the middle ones rather the 
 longest, giving the fin somewhat of a rounded form ; the base much 
 longer than the length of the head, being as long as from the point 
 of the snout to the middle of the third shield of the trunk ; the last 
 ray situated exactly in the middle of the whole fish ; vent placed im- 
 mediately in a line under the twenty-eighth ray of the dorsal. Oc- 
 ciput on the same level as the back, gradually sloping in front as far 
 as to the anterior part of the orbits, from thence to the tip the snout 
 becomes slightly sinuous ; under jaw shortest, ascending obliquely 
 to meet the upper ; chin rounded ; tip of the snout about the depth 
 of the diameter of the orbit j mouth very small, placed at the extre- 
 mity ; jaws without teeth ; gill-cover in form very much resembling 
 a small mussel-shell, closed on all sides by a continuous membrane, 
 except on each side of the nape, where there is a small gill-opening ; 
 eyes placed half-way between the tip of the jaws and the origin of 
 the second plate of the trunk. Number of fin rays 
 D. 43 ; C. 7 ; P. and V. wanting. 
 
 The only examples of this fish I have seen, were taken in 
 the Firth of Forth at North Berwick, in the month of 
 July, when two specimens were found under sea- weed in 
 a small pool of water which had been left on the recess 
 of the tide. Their stomachs were filled with a minute spe- 
 cies of shrimp, and apparently eggs of Crustacea. Mr 
 Yarrell has found this species of Pipe- Fish not uncommon 
 
THE SHORT SUN-FISH. 401 
 
 at the mouth of Pool Harbour, in company with S. acus 
 and S. typlile. It has also been found on the coast of De- 
 von, and, although a rare fish, it seems better known than 
 the last-described species, with which it has occasionally 
 been confounded. The best distinguishable character is in 
 the position of the dorsal tin. Mr Yarrell states, that " in 
 this species, as well as the two others belonging to this se- 
 cond division, 1 ' S. cequoreus and S. lumbriciformis, " neither 
 male nor female possesses an anal pouch, but the ova, after 
 exclusion from the abdomen of the female, are carried for 
 a time by the male in separate hemispheric depressions on 
 the external surface of the abdomen, anterior to the anus. 
 The females have no such depressions." The S. lumbrici- 
 formis has been taken by Dr Johnston in Berwick Bay, but 
 has not been noticed as occurring in the Firth of Forth ; 
 from its small size it is very liable to be overlooked. 
 
 ORDER IV. GYMNODONTES. 
 
 Opercule and rays concealed beneath the skin ; branchial 
 opening small ; snout not produced ; true teeth wanting. 
 
 GENUS ORTHAGORISCUS.Jsiws undivided ; body 
 very much compressed, short, truncated behind ; rough, 
 but without spines; not capable of inflation; dorsal and 
 anal fins uniting with the caudal. 
 
 ORTHAGORISCUS MOLA.* THE SHORT SuN-FisH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Depth about two-thirds of the length ; skin 
 rough. 
 
 * Orthagoriscus mola, Yarr., Cuv., Jen. Tetradon mold, Penn. 
 VOL. VII. C C 
 
402 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 Description. " From three to four feet in length. Form oblong, 
 approaching orbicular, truncated behind ; sides very much com- 
 pressed, the dorsal and ventral lines presenting a sharp edge ; depth 
 behind the pectorals about two-thirds of the entire length ; thickness 
 rather more than one-third of the depth. Head not distinguishable 
 from the trunk; mouth small; jaws exposed; the lamellated sub- 
 stance undivided ; eyes moderate, about equidistant from the cor- 
 ner of the mouth and the branchial aperture, which last is of an oval 
 form, and situated immediately before the pectoral fin. Skin desti- 
 tute of scales, but everywhere very rough with minute granulations ; 
 no lateral line ; dorsal placed at the further extremity of the body, 
 short, but very much elevated, its height equalling two-thirds or 
 more of the depth of the body, terminating upwards in a point ; rays 
 very much branched ; anal opposite, and exactly similar, to the dor- 
 sal ; caudal, with the posterior margin slightly rounded, very short, 
 but its depth (or breadth, measured vertically), nearly equalling that 
 of the body, extending from the dorsal to the anal, with both of 
 which fins it is connected ; pectorals small, rounded, attached ho- 
 rizontally ; ventrals wanting. Number of fin rays*' (Jenyns) 
 
 " D. 17 ; A. 16 ; C. 14 ; P. 13." Block. 
 
 The Short Sun-Fish is not of unfrequent occurrence on 
 the British coast ; it has been observed several times on the 
 coast of Scotland, and on the English coast as far south as 
 on the shores of Cornwall. Colonel Montagu mentions 
 one that was caught at Salcombe, in July 1799, that 
 weighed three hundred pounds. They have been known 
 to weigh as much as four hundred or five hundred pounds. 
 
 Mr Couch says "the Short Sun-Fish is migratory, keep- 
 ing probably at the bottom, and feeding on sea- weeds in 
 its ordinary habits ; but in calm weather it mounts to the 
 surface, and lies, perhaps asleep, with its head, and even 
 its eyes, above the water, floating with the tide." Seven or 
 eight examples have occurred in the Firth of Forth. Dr 
 Neill says "a specimen was brought to him by the fishermen, 
 who informed him that when they observed it, it was swim- 
 ming along sideways, with its back fin frequently above water. 
 It seemed to be a stupid, dull fish ; it made little or no at- 
 
THE SHARP-NOSED STURGEON. 400 
 
 tempt to escape, but allowed one of the sailors to put his 
 hands under it, and lift it fairly into the boat." The flesh 
 is not made use of as food, but yields a large quantity of 
 oil. 
 
 SUB-CLASS IL PISCES CARTILAGINEI. 
 
 Bones cartilaginous ; cranium divided by indistinct su- 
 tures; branchiae generally fixed ; membrane without rays ; 
 maxillary and intermaxillary bones either wanting or rudi- 
 mentary ; the palatines, or vomer alone, supplying their 
 place. 
 
 ORDER I ELEUTHEROPOMI. 
 
 Branchiae free, with one large external aperture on each 
 side, furnished with a strong opercule ; upper jaw formed 
 by the palatine bone, firmly united to the maxillary ; inter- 
 maxillary rudimentary. 
 
 GENUS ACIPENSER.ftady elongated, mailed, as well 
 as the head, with osseous tubercles, arranged in longitudi- 
 nal rows ; mouth placed beneath, very protractile, small, 
 without teeth ; nostrils and eyes lateral ; four pendent bar- 
 bules on the under surface of the snout. 
 
 ACIPENSER STURIO.* THE SHARP- NOSED STURGKON. 
 
 Specific Characters. Osseous tubercles in five longitudinal rows ; 
 snout pointed. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five feet in length. Body elongat- 
 ed, tapering from the head to the base of the tail, approaching in 
 
 * Acipenser sturio, Auctorum. 
 
404 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 form to pentagonal^ covered with a number of large osseous plates 
 arranged in five longitudinal rows ; the first row commences at the 
 nape, and rims down the^back ; the central plates the largest and 
 more elevated than the rest ; the second row arises over the pos- 
 terior margin of the operculum, and runs down the side as far as the 
 end of the tail ; the third row runs from the pectoral down the side 
 of the abdomen ; rows similar to the two last are also observed on 
 the opposite side of the trunk ; each dorsal plate has a broad base, 
 with a sharp elevated keel, terminating in a point directed backwards ; 
 the sixth, seventh, and eighth plate, more raised than those preced- 
 ing ; the base of each is rough with granulations ; the keel smooth, 
 and plain. Colour of the back dusky grey ; belly dirty white ; fins 
 dusky ; keels of the scales white. Skin rough, with minute plates 
 and points of various shapes, scattered irregularly over the surface ; 
 head sloping in front, covered with rough broad osseous plates; 
 snout pointed, somewhat of a conical form ; four barbules on the 
 under surface, arranged in a cross direction^ placed about half-way 
 between the point of the snout and the anterior margin of the mouth ; 
 mouth situated beneath, about in a line with the eye, of an oval 
 form, without teeth, bordered by cartilage, capable of being greatly 
 protruded. Eyes small ; operculum large, flat, and osseous, marked 
 with a number of granulated strise, radiating from a centre. Dorsal 
 fin placed very remote from the head ; caudal bilobed, the upper 
 lobe much the largest ; anal placed under the posterior half of the 
 dorsal ; ventrals a little in advance of the dorsal ; pectorals situated 
 low down, in a line with the posterior margins of the gill-covers. 
 Number of fin rays 
 D. 33; A. 23; C. 127 ; V. 23 ; P. 28. 
 
 The Sturgeon inhabits both fresh and salt water, and is 
 a common fish in most of the northern parts of Europe. 
 In some of the American rivers they are found in such vast 
 abundance during the months of May, June, and July, 
 that as many as six hundred are said to have been taken 
 in two days. On the British shores they are by no means 
 common ; seldom more than one individual is taken in the 
 same locality during the season, and then almost invariably 
 in estuaries, or at the mouths of large rivers. They are 
 mostly taken in salmon-nets, but no instance has been re- 
 corded of their being found on lines, or of their taking 
 
THE BROAD NOSED STURGEON. 405 
 
 a bait of any description, although small fish and vermes 
 seem to be their principal food. They are found during 
 the winter to inhabit the ocean, and to ascend rivers in 
 the spring and summer months for the purpose of depo- 
 siting their spawn ; the fry, as soon as they are extruded 
 from the eggs, are said to seek the sea, and it appears on 
 that account that very young ones are seldom or never 
 found. In the Firth of Forth the Sharp-nosed Sturgeon 
 is taken, on an average, once in every three years, and then 
 generally in the salmon-nets at Musselburgh or Queensferry. 
 It is sometimes found on the coast of Cornwall, but more 
 commonly on our northern shores. A muddy bottom 
 seems to suit their habits the best, which they are said to 
 explore with their snout like swine in search of food. The 
 flesh of the Sturgeon is much esteemed ; it seems, however, 
 to have been more highly prized in former times than at 
 present. The roe of this fish is salted, and exported under 
 the name of caviare. The best isinglass is made from the 
 sound or swimming bladder, and sold at a high price. 
 
 ACIPENSER LATIItOSTRIS. PaTU. BROAD-NOSED 
 
 STURGEON. 
 
 Specific Characters. Osseous tubercles in five longitudinal rows ; 
 snout blunt. 
 
 Description. From a specimen seven feet nine inches in length ; 
 weight eight stones. Colour of the back and sides, olive, with a shade 
 of grey ; belly dirty white. Body armed with five rows of osseous 
 shields, the first row commencing behind the head, and runs down 
 the central ridge of the back ; the two next rows arise one on each 
 side of the former, but nearer to the central ridge than to the pec- 
 toral fins ; immediately on the lower margins of the pectorals the 
 other two rows commence ; skin rough, with a number of small an- 
 gular osseous plates intermixed with very minute spicula ; the first 
 free shield on the central ridge is nearly orbicular, and very slightly 
 carinated ; the remainder in that row are of an oval form, with their 
 margins entire ; the keels of the fifth and sixth shields one-eighth 
 of an inch high, all the rest are lower ; the lateral shields are 
 
406 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 broad, slightly carinated, and,, like those on the central ridge, not 
 hooked in the centre, as is observed in the sharp-nosed sturgeon- 
 From the tip of the snout to the commencement of the first free 
 shield on the dorsal ridge, one foot eight inches ; from the tip of 
 the nose to the orbit measures six inches ; the snout at the extremity, 
 three inches wide and one deep ; from the tip of the nose to 
 the mouth, six inches and a half; the space between the eyes 
 measures five inches ; the cirri, which are four in number, are 
 placed two inches and a quarter from the tip of the snout. Mouth 
 two inches and a half wide ; the upper lip with three fleshy lobes ; 
 the under lip with two lobes ; summit of the head rough, with the 
 central plates beautifully radiated and of a fibrous appearance ; po- 
 sition of the fins the same as in other sturgeons. 
 
 This fish differs from the common Sturgeon ( Aclpenser 
 sturio) in having the tip of the snout much broader than 
 the mouth ; in the keels of the dorsal plates being but slight- 
 ly elevated ; and in having the cirri placed nearer the tip of 
 the snout than to the mouth. It was taken with a net in the 
 month of July near Alloa, and sent to the Edinburgh 
 market, where it received a sale of a shilling a pound. A 
 few weeks after another of nearly equal size was captured 
 in the Tay, which was also sent to the Edinburgh market, 
 and on close examination I was unable to discover any 
 characteristic differences between it and the one taken in 
 the Forth. 
 
 This sturgeon I believe to have been hitherto an un- 
 described British species, nor have I as yet been able to 
 identify the fish in any of the works of continental authors, 
 therefore I have proposed, in the mean time, the name 
 latirostris, as characteristic of the species. 
 
 In the stomach of the one from the Tay was found an 
 entire specimen of the sea mouse ( Aphrodita nculeata.) 
 
THE SMALL SPOTTED DOG-FISH. 407 
 
 ORDER II. PLAGIOSTOMI. 
 
 Branchiae fixed, with five small external openings on each 
 side ; no opercule; jaws represented by the palatine and 
 postmandibular bones, which alone are armed with teeth ; 
 pectorals and ventrals always present ; the latter (in the 
 male) furnished on their internal margins with long ap- 
 pendages. 
 
 FAMILY SQUALIDJL Body more or less elongated; 
 tail thick and muscular ; branchial openings on each side 
 of the neck, never underneath. 
 
 GENUS SCYLLIUM.-~ First dorsal fin never in advance 
 of the ventrals ; temporal orifices as well as the anal fin al- 
 ways present ; teeth sharp and pointed, with small denticu- 
 lations on each side. 
 
 SCYLLIUM CANICULA.* THE SM ALL-SPOTTED DoG-FISH. 
 
 Specific Character. Valves of the nostrils approximate, covering 
 the anterior part of the mouth . 
 
 Description. From a female specimen one foot eleven inches in 
 length. Anterior part of the body of a rounded form, tapering to- 
 wards the tail where it becomes compressed ; greatest thickness be- 
 tween the pectoral and ventral fins; from the point of the snout to 
 the last gill-opening but one on the neck., exactly one-seventh of the 
 entire length, and one-fourth as far as the posterior extremity of the 
 base of the first dorsal fin ; second gill-opening is placed mid- way be- 
 tween' the point of the snout and the end of the pectoral fin. Colour 
 of the head, back, and sides, reddish-grey, thickly spotted with dark 
 brown ; belly and under the throat dirty white without spots ; the 
 spots on the dorsal, caudal, and behind the pectoral and ventral fins, 
 large and few ; outer surface of the pectoral, ventral, and anal fins, 
 
 * Scyllium canicula, Yarr. Squalus canicula, Jen. Morgay, Robin Huss. 
 
408 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 plain. Snout blunt, rounded, and depressed,, projecting beyond the 
 upper jaw ; nostrils rather large, placed underneath, about half-way 
 between the point of the snout and the anterior part of the orbit, and 
 immediately in front of the upper lip, mostly concealed by a prolonga- 
 tion of skin, so as to form a sort of valve over each aperture ; each 
 valve is somewhat of a triangular form, extending over and partly 
 concealing the anterior part of the mouth ; under the outer margin 
 of each valve and partly concealed, is a small truncated lobe of a 
 square form, not extending beyond the lip. Mouth large, the angle of 
 which extends as far as in a line with the middle of the orbit ; under 
 jaw shortest ; teeth small and sharp pointed, placed in three or more 
 rows in each jaw ; each tooth is furnished with a small denticulation 
 on each side of its base. Eyes rather large, of an oblong oval, placed 
 as far from the point of the snout, as the distance is between each ; 
 branchial openings five, arranged in a longitudinal series on each 
 side of the neck, the four first nearly of equal size, about half the 
 size of the orbit ; the fourth situated immediately over the anterior 
 extremity of the base of the pectoral ; the fifth, which is the smallest, 
 placed rather beyond that point. Behind each eye, a little below the 
 posterior angle, is a small temporal orifice, communicating with the 
 mouth. Skin rough, with small denticulated scales, allowing the 
 hand to be passed from head to tail, but not in the opposite direc- 
 tion ; the extremity of the snout perfectly smooth, appearing as if the 
 points of the scales had worn down. First dorsal fin, situated over 
 the middle of the space between the ventral and anal fins, and mid- 
 way between the fourth branchial opening and the end of the tail ; 
 the anterior margin oblique j the posterior margin vertical ; the 
 height rather more than equals the base. Second dorsal, about the 
 same form as the first dorsal, but rather smaller, situated nearer it 
 than to the end of the tail, and a little behind the termination of the 
 anal fin. Caudal, truncated or very slightly rounded at the end ; the 
 upper lobe commencing at first low, a little behind the second dor- 
 sal, gradually expanding and terminating abruptly ; the anterior 
 lower lobe somewhat of the same form as the anal fin, but rather 
 larger ; the posterior lower lobe much smaller, of a triangular form. 
 Anal fin, placed a little in advance of the second dorsal, and half-way 
 between the commencement of the ventrals, and the termination of 
 the anterior lower lobe of the tail ; the form somewhat triangular, the 
 base more than twice the length of the height ; the lower end free. 
 Ventrals in advance of first dorsal, situated about mid- way between 
 the end of the pectorals and the anal fin ; the lower portions acute and 
 free ; the posterior margins more oblique than the anterior margins. 
 Pectoral broad, truncated behind, its length equalling the space be- 
 tween the point of the snout and. the first branchial aperture. " The 
 
THE SMALL-SPOTTED DOG-FISH. 400 
 
 male is characterized by having the ventrals larger tlian in the other sex , 
 and united throughout their length by an intermediate membrane : 
 they are also furnished on their inner margins with fusiform appen- 
 dages, not extending beyond the fin, in young subjects, but lengthen- 
 ing in adults ; in the female, the ventrals have the last third portions 
 of their inner margins separate." ( Jenyns.) 
 
 The Spotted Dog-Fish and the Lesser-Spotted Dog-Fish 
 of Pennant, appear to be both the same species, differing 
 only in sexual variety ; but whether they are the same as 
 the one here described, or the one next to be noticed, is a 
 question not easily determined, in consequence of Pennant 
 having omitted the essential characters by which the two 
 species are distinguished. We are indebted, however, to 
 Mr Jenyns, in his excellent work on the British Vertebrate 
 Animals, for first clearly pointing out the true specific dis- 
 tinctions in the two species of Spotted Dog-Fish (S. canicula 
 and S. catulus\ which principally rest on the formation of 
 the nasal valves, as will be shewn when speaking of S. catu- 
 lus. 
 
 The Small-Spotted Dog-Fish is generally considered a 
 common species throughout the British coast, but is found 
 in greater numbers on the southern shores of England than 
 on those shores farther north. In the Firth of Forth it 
 is comparatively rare, making its appearance generally in 
 the month of June, when a few are captured in the salmon- 
 nets at Musselburgh and Queensferry. On the coast of 
 Devon it is taken mostly in the trawl-net and occasionally 
 with the hook. 
 
 It is a voracious feeder, and subsists principally on small 
 fishes. The skin of this and of the other species of Shark, is 
 much used in the arts for various purposes ; the finer parts 
 being used by cabinetmakers as a substitute for glass-paper, 
 and turners employ it for polishing wood. The flesh is 
 coarse, and seldom used as food. 
 
410 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 SCYLLIUM CATULUS.* THE LARGE-SPOTTED DoG-FlSH. 
 
 Specific Characters. Valves of the nostrils separate; not reaching 
 to the mouth. 
 
 Description. From a female specimen one foot eight inches in 
 length. Anterior part of the body rounded ; belly somewhat flatten- 
 ed ; caudal extremity compressed, greatest thickness behind the 
 pectorals, tapering from the ventrals ; from the point of the snout 
 to the third gill-opening on the neck, exactly one-sixth of the en- 
 tire length, and one-fourth as far as the middle of the space be- 
 tween the two dorsals ; first gill-opening is placed mid- way between 
 the point of the snout and the end of the pectoral fin. Colour of 
 the head, back, and sides, reddish-grey, spotted with dark brown ; 
 belly, under surface of the pectoral and ventral fins, dirty white; behind 
 the ,fms spotted. Snout blunt, rounded, and slightly depressed, pro- 
 jecting beyond the upper jaw; nostrils rather large, elongated, placed 
 beneath, much nearer the point of the snout than to the anterior part 
 of the orbit, and immediately in front of the upper lip ; the inner half 
 concealed by a prolongation of skin so as to form a sort of valve ; 
 each valve is somewhat of a triangular form, rather short, not reach- 
 ing to the upper jaw, having a lobe underneath of a similar form, but 
 somewhat smaller. Mouth large, the angle of which extending back 
 as far as in a line with the middle of the orbit ; under jaw shortest ; 
 teeth small and sharp pointed, placed hi three or more rows in each 
 jaw ; each tooth is furnished with a small denticulation on each side 
 of its base. Eyes moderate, of an oblong-oval ; branchial openings 
 five, arranged in a longitudinal series on each side of the neck, the 
 first the largest, rather more than equalling the length of the orbit, 
 the last the smallest, about half the size of the first, the fourth placed 
 immediately over the anterior extremity of the base of the pectoral 
 fin. Behind and a little under the posterior angle of the orbit, is si- 
 tuated a small temporal orifice communicating with the mouth ; skin 
 rough, allowing the hand to be passed from head to tail, but not in 
 the opposite direction, owing to the scales being strongly denticulat- 
 ed, with the points directed towards the caudal extremity ; the tip of 
 the snout perfectly smooth. First dorsal fin somewhat of a triangu- 
 lar form, rather less than equalling its height, situated over the mid- 
 dle of the space between the ventral and anal fins, and mid- way be- 
 tween the third branchial opening and the end of the tail ; its ante- 
 rior margin oblique, the posterior vertical. Second dorsal about the 
 
 * Scyllium caiulus, Yarr., Cuv. Squalus stellaris, Jen, Rock Dog Fish, 
 Bounce. 
 
THE LARGE-SPOTTED DOG-FISH. 411 
 
 same form as the first, but rather smaller, situated in a line over the 
 posterior portion of the anal fin, and half-way between the origin of 
 the ventrals and the end of the tail. Caudal truncated rather ob- 
 liquely, commencing low at a short distance from 'the second dorsal, 
 and expanding gradually towards the extremity ; the anterior lower 
 lobe about twice the size of the anal fin and somewhat of the same 
 form ; the posterior lower lobe considerably smaller, of a triangular 
 form, with the apex pointing downwards. Anal fin with its poste- 
 rior extremity situated mid- way between the commencement of the 
 ventrals and the end of the tail ; ventrals in advance of the first dor- 
 sal, the lower portions not so acutely formed as in S. canicula. Pec- 
 torals broad, truncated behind ; its length considerably less than the 
 space between the point of the snout and the first branchial opening. 
 The male is characterized in the same manner as in the last species. 
 
 Mr Jenyns remarks, " (form) closely resembling the S. 
 canicula, but differing essentially in the structure of the 
 lobes of the nostrils and in the fdrm of the ventrals. The 
 former are not united as in that species (S. canicula), and 
 of a smaller size, leaving the whole of the mouth and 
 the upper lip visible ; the ventrals, instead of being cut 
 obliquely, are cut nearly square, their posterior margins 
 meeting at a very obtuse angle ; they are united or se- 
 parate according to the sex in a similar manner. The 
 snout is rather more elongated, and, according to some 
 authors, the tail rather shorter, giving the dorsal a more 
 backward position ; but this last character I have not noticed 
 myself." 
 
 The two species now before me(S. canicula and S. catulus), 
 differ in other characters besides those above pointed out 
 by Mr Jenyns. In S. canicula, the whole of the second 
 dorsal fin is behind the anal ; in S. catulus it is in a line over 
 the lower portion of the anal. In S. canicula, the small 
 lobe which is situated immediately under the outer margin 
 of the nasal valve, is of a square form ; in S. catulus that 
 lobe is somewhat of a triangular form and about three times 
 broader than its length, extending from the inner corner of 
 
412 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the nasal aperture along half its base, or nearly as far as 
 the posterior margin of the nasal valve ; the teeth in S. ca- 
 tulus are about double the size of those in S. canicula. 
 
 The Large-spotted Dog-Fish, so named by Mr Yarrell 
 to distinguish it from the small-spotted species, is occasion- 
 ally taken on the coast of Devon in the trawl-net, but it 
 does not appear to be of so common occurrence as S. cani- 
 cula. In the Firth of Forth examples are occasionally 
 found in the salmon-nets at Queensferry. It is stated by 
 the fishermen, that it is more frequently met with on 
 some of the shores further north, and at Wick, specimens of 
 large size have been taken in the herring-nets ; but as the 
 two species are so closely allied, it is not improbable that 
 they have been greatly confounded. I have seen examples 
 of both species of three feet and a half in length. They 
 feed on almost any animal substance, and extrude their 
 purses or eggs during the winter months. On dissecting a 
 specimen in the month of September, I found two purses of 
 large size, but the foetus was not in the slightest developed. 
 At one of the extremities of the horny capsule were attach- 
 ed two strong, slender tendrils, very much resembling that 
 which is used by fishermen under the name of Indian weed. 
 This and the last described species are said to produce 
 many young at a time. I have occasionally observed a va- 
 riety of this species, or probably the young, about a foot in 
 length, with the head, back, and sides, of a deep reddish- 
 brown, marked with a few large dark scattered spots. 
 
 GENUS LAMNA. First dorsal fin in advance of the 
 ventrals ; anal fin present ; temporal orifices wanting ; the 
 branchial openings all before the pectorals. 
 
THE PORBEAGLE. 413 
 
 LAMNA CORNUBICA.* THE PORBEAGLE. 
 
 Description. "Body fusiform, very narrow at the tail, and strong- 
 ly keeled there on each side ; skin smooth when stroked backwards, 
 of a uniform greyish-black colour, the belly white ; snout obtusely 
 pointed, with a band of punctures on each side of the forehead ter- 
 minating above the eyes, a few similar punctures behind the eyes, and 
 a triangular patch of them before the nostrils, they are the apertures 
 of canals filled with a transparent jelly ; eyes round, dark blue ; bran- 
 chial slits five, cut across the neck, the posterior oblique and close to 
 the pectoral fin ; back rounded ; dorsal fin triangular, with a free, 
 pointed, pale-coloured process behind; posterior dorsal fin also pointed 
 posteriorly; pectorals somewhat triangular, obliquely sinuate on the 
 posterior edge, black ; ventral fins rhomboidal, meeting on the mesial 
 line, on which are the anal and generative apertures ; anal fin small, 
 pointed behind ; tail lunate, with unequal lobes, the superior and 
 largest with a projecting outline near the tip ; above the tail there is 
 a flat space bounded by a short transverse ridge, and a similar one 
 opposite on the ventral side ; lateral line straight ; the keel on the 
 body runs forward on the tail, and there is a small keel beneath this 
 confined to the tail itself. The length along the lateral line five feet 
 eight inches and a half; circumference in front of the dorsal fin, two 
 feet eight inches and a half; from the snout to the eye, four inches 
 and three quarters ; diameter of the eye, one inch and one-tenth ; 
 breadth between the eyes, five inches and one quarter ; from the snout 
 to the margin of the upper lip four inches and a half, thence to the 
 angle of the mouth also four inches and a half; breadth of the mouth 
 from angle to angle eight inches and one quarter ; from the snout to 
 the first gill-aperture one foot three inches; snout to pectoral fin one 
 foot six inches and a half; length of pectoral fin one foot one inch ; 
 breadth of pectoral fin six inches and a half; snout to dorsal fin two 
 feet one inch and three quarters ; height of dorsal fin nine inches 
 and three quarters ; length of dorsal fin ten inches and one quarter ; 
 length of the free portion of it three inches ; space between the first 
 and second dorsal fins one foot eight inches ; length from the snout 
 to the anal aperture three feet eight inches ; extreme breadth of the 
 tail one foot eight inches ; length of the tail in the mesial line six 
 inches and one quarter." (Dr Johnston.) 
 
 This species of Shark is met with occasionally on the Devon- 
 shire and Cornish coasts, but is said to occur more frequently 
 
 * Lamna cornubica, Cuv., Yarr., Flem. Squalus cornubicus, Jen., Don., 
 Penn. 
 
41 4 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 during autumn on the northern coast. Several specimens 
 have been taken in the Firth of Forth, principally in the 
 herring-nets, among which they are very destructive. They 
 feed on fishes and pursue their prey in companies. Dr 
 Johnston has met with examples in Berwick Hay. They 
 are ovoviviparous, and their flesh is seldom made use of, ex- 
 cept as bait for other fishes. The essential characters of 
 this species are : the first dorsal fin before the ventrals ; 
 all the branchial openings before the pectoral except the 
 last, which is situated obliquely over the anterior extremity 
 of the base of that fin ; teeth serrated on both edges ; anal 
 fin present ; temporal orifices wanting ; snout pyramidal. 
 
 GENUS GALEUS. First dorsal fin in advance of the 
 ventrals ; anal fin present ; temporal orifices present ; the 
 last branchial opening above the pectoral ; teeth sharp. 
 
 GALEUS VULGARIS.* THE COMMON TOPE. 
 
 Description. From a small male specimen fourteen inches in length. 
 Body fusiform,, greatest thickness in the region of the pectorals ; snout 
 depressed ; end of the tail compressed ; from the point of the snout 
 to the second gill-opening on the neck exactly one -fifth of the en- 
 tire length ; first gill-opening is placed mid- way between the end 
 of the snout and the commencement of the first dorsal fin. Co- 
 lour of the back and sides dusky grey ; belly dirty white. Snout 
 pointed, slightly rounded at the tip, projecting, about the length of 
 the base of the first dorsal fin, beyond the anterior margin of the 
 upper jaw ; nostrils small, placed beneath, considerably nearer the 
 mouth than to the point of the snout, and a very little in advance of 
 the anterior extremity of the orbit. Mouth large, the angle extend- 
 ing back as far as in a line with the posterior extremity of the orbit ; 
 under jaw shortest ; teeth sharp pointed, of a triangular form, placed 
 in three or four rows in each jaw, the inner edge of each strongly den- 
 ticulated, the outer edge, which is placed obliquely, smooth and 
 cutting. Eyes large of an oblong-oval, situated over the mouth ; 
 
 * Galeus vulgaris, Cuv., Yarr. Syualus galeus, Jen. Penny Dog, Mil- 
 ler's Dog. 
 
THE COMMON TOPE. 415 
 
 branchial opening's five, arranged in a longitudinal series on each side 
 of the neck ; the first four nearly of equal size ; the last, which is 
 placed immediately over the anterior extremity of the base of the 
 pectoral, somewhat smaller than the rest ; a little behind the pos- 
 terior angle of the orbit is situated a small temporal orifice about the 
 size of a pin's head ; skin rough when the hand is passed from tail to 
 head, but smooth in the opposite direction. First dorsal fin placed 
 half-way between the tip of the nose and the end of the second 
 dorsal ; somewhat of a quadrangular form, its base about equalling the 
 height of the anterior part ; the posterior extremity ending in an acute 
 point. Second dorsal fin placed about half-way between the first 
 dorsal and the end of the tail, and corresponding to the former in 
 shape, but of half the size. The extremity of the caudal lobe ob- 
 liquely truncated, the anterior lower portion somewhat of a triangu- 
 lar form, concave at the posterior margin, and much larger than the 
 rest of the lobe. Anal rather small, situated under the lower part of 
 the second dorsal. Ventrals placed in the middle of the space be- 
 tween the two dorsals, cut obliquely at their lower edges. Pectoral 
 rather larger than the first dorsal, ajjproaching to triangular, rounded 
 at the upper border and concave at the posterior margin. 
 
 The Tope Shark is frequently taken in the Firth of Forth, 
 and specimens of three feet or more in length are now in 
 the College Museum of Edinburgh, obtained from that 
 quarter. Dr Johnston has observed it on the coast of Ber- 
 wick. " On the Cornish coast," says Mr Yarrell, " this is 
 a common and rapacious species, but is not so destructive 
 as the Blue Shark. The larger specimens, which are about 
 six feet long, abound chiefly in summer ; and the young, to 
 the number of thirty or more, are excluded all at once from 
 the female in May and June. They do not reach the full 
 size until the second year, and continue with us through 
 the first winter, while those of larger size retire into deep 
 water. No use is made of this fish beyond melting the 
 liver for oil. When caught on the fishermen's lines, this 
 fish sometimes has recourse to the same attempt at deliver- 
 ance as the Blue Shark, by twisting the line throughout 
 the whole length round its body."" 
 
416 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 The fishermen in the Firth of Forth have frequently mis- 
 taken the present species of Shark for a full-grown example 
 of the common dog-fish, they supposing that the absence of 
 the dorsal spines is entirely owing to the age of the fish, but 
 the absence of the anal fin in the Dog-Fish, and its presence 
 in the Tope, will at all times distinguish the two species from 
 one another. The essential characters of the Tope are, 
 first dorsal fin before the ventrals; last branchial opening 
 placed immediately over the anterior extremity of the base 
 of the pectorals ; teeth denticulated only on the edge placed 
 nearest the angle on the mouth ; anal fin as well as the tem- 
 poral orifices, present ; snout depressed. 
 
 GENUS MUSTELUS. First dorsal fin in advance of 
 the ventrals ; anal fin present ; temporal orifices present ; 
 teeth blunt, forming a closely-compacted pavement in each 
 jaw. 
 
 MUSTELUS L^VIS.* THE SMOOTH HOUND. 
 
 Description. From a small specimen fourteen inches in length. 
 Body fusiform, rounded, greatest thickness in the region of the pec- 
 torals, tapering gradually towards the caudal extremity, where it be- 
 comes compressed ; snout and head depressed ; from the tip of the 
 snout to the third gill-opening on the neck, exactly one-sixth of the 
 entire length, and one-third as far as the middle of the space between 
 the two dorsals. Colour of the head, back, and sides, of a light 
 bluish-grey, marked with numerous small white spots, which disap- 
 pear as the fish increases in age ; belly dull pearly- white. First dor- 
 sal fin rather large, of a triangular form, the height more than equal- 
 ling the base ; placed over the posterior portion of the pectorals, and 
 half-way between the point of the snout and the middle of the second 
 dorsal fin ; the lower portion of the posterior margin terminating in a 
 point directed backwards. Second dorsal rather smaller than the 
 first dorsal, and corresponding to it in form ; placed a little in advance 
 
 * Mustelus lavis, Cuv., Yarr. Squalis mustelus, Jen., Penii. Skate- 
 toothed Shark, Ray-mouthed Dog, Smooth Shark. 
 
THE SMOOTH HOUND. 417 
 
 of the anal fin, and about-mid-way between the first dorsal and the tip 
 of the caudal lobe ; pectorals of a triangular form with the posterior 
 margins cut obliquely, the length equal to the distance from the 
 point of the snout to the temporal orifice, immediately behind the 
 posterior angle of the orbit ; ventrals placed under the middle of the 
 space between the two dorsals, of a triangular form, cut obliquely, and 
 about half the size of the pectorals. Anal rather small, placed under 
 the posterior half of the second dorsal, and answering to it in shape : 
 caudal with the lo wer lobe cut obliquely ; the anterior under lobe slightly 
 concave at the posterior margin, and rather larger at the commence- 
 ment. Snout rounded ; nostrils underneath, partly covered with a 
 small cutaneous flap, placed half-way between the tip of the snout 
 and the posterior angle of the mouth ; gape rather small ; under 
 jaw the shortest ; teeth small and blunt, forming a close compacted 
 pavement in each jaw, very similar to those observed in young indi- 
 viduals of Raia clavata. Eyes rather large, of an oblong oval form, 
 placed over the mouth, and about half-way between the point of the 
 snout and the commencement of the second gill-opening ; skin smooth 
 and soft, when the hand is passed from head to tail, but rough in the 
 opposite direction ; gill- openings on each side of the neck, five in 
 number, the last the smallest, and placed immediately over the anterior 
 part of the base of the pectoral; lateral line rather indistinct, and 
 straight throughout its course. 
 
 The most common size of this species of Shark that I 
 have met with in the Firth of Forth is from twenty to five 
 and twenty inches in length. It is generally found in the 
 salmon-nets, along with the common dog-fish, with which it is 
 frequently confounded by many of the fishermen, although, 
 when closely examined, the differences between them are 
 very obvious. On the southern shores of England it is oc- 
 casionally taken the length of three feet or more, and is 
 found in greater numbers on the Cornish and Devonshire 
 coasts than on the eastern shores of Scotland. Dr John- 
 ston has known it taken in Berwick Bay ; Mr Couch says 
 " it is common on the coast of Cornwall, but not abundant, 
 and keeps close to the bottom on clean ground, where it 
 feeds on crustaceous animals which it crushes previous to 
 swallowing, and for which its flat pavement teeth are well 
 
 VOL. VII. D d 
 
418 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 adapted ; it also takes a bait, but is less rapacious than 
 most of the tribe. The young are produced alive in No- 
 vember, the whole coming to perfection at once ; but they 
 are few in number, not perhaps exceeding a dozen, and 
 soon after birth they all go into deep water, from which 
 they do not emerge until the following May." Mr Yarrell 
 says it has been taken on the coasts of the counties of An- 
 trim and Londonderry, and he has seen it at various places 
 on the coasts of Kent and Sussex. Dr Fleming records it 
 as being used in the Hebrides as food, and the flesh is 
 esteemed a delicate dish. 
 
 The principal character which distinguishes this fish 
 from the rest of the Sharks is in the form of the teeth, 
 which are, as before observed, arranged in a compacted 
 pavement, with their summits perfectly smooth, the teeth 
 of Sharks generally being very sharp pointed, more or less 
 of a triangular form. 
 
 GENUS SELACHUS. First dorsal fin in advance of 
 the ventrals ; anal fin and temporal orifices both present ; 
 teeth not denticulated at the sides ; branchial openings all 
 before the pectorals, nearly surrounding the neck. 
 
 SELACHUS MAXIMUS.* THE BASKING SHARK. 
 
 Description. " The body is the thickest about the middle, -and 
 diminishes towards both extremities ; when afloat the form is nearly 
 cylindrical ; the skin thick and rough, of a brownish black colour,, 
 with tints of blue. The head conical, the muzzle short, rather blunt, 
 smooth, and pierced with numerous circular pores ; eyes near the snout, 
 small, oval, the elongation horizontal, the irides brown ; half-way be- 
 tween the eye and the first branchial opening is the temporal ori- 
 fice, oblique and small ; branchial openings five on each side, of great 
 vertical length, each set including the whole side of the neck, and 
 leaving only a small space above and below ; nostrils oval, small, 
 placed rather laterally, and opening on the edge of the upper lip ; 
 
 * Selachus maximus, Y/arr. Squaltis maximus, Jen., Penn., Flem. 
 
THE BASKING SHARK. 410 
 
 pectoral fin of moderate size for so large a fish, the form somewhat 
 triangular, placed close to the last branchial orifice, convex ante- 
 riorly and thick, slightly concave and much thinner behind ; the ven- 
 tral fins also of moderate size, rather elongated at the base, placed 
 behind the middle of the whole length of the fish, convex in front, 
 concave behind, the inner and posterior half free, exhibiting in the 
 male the cylindrical appendage. The first dorsal fin, placed before 
 the middle of the whole length of the fish, is much the larger of the 
 two, forming an elevated triangle ; anterior edge but slightly convex, 
 posterior edge concave, with an elongated point at the base directed 
 backwards ; the second dorsal fin much smaller than the first, rounded 
 above, attached throughout half its base only, and placed at two- 
 thirds of the distance from the first dorsal to the caudal fin ; anal fin 
 is still smaller than the second dorsal, but of the same shape. From 
 the line of the anal fin to the base of the tail, there is a strong and 
 prominent keel-like edge on each side ; and just in advance of the 
 base of the caudal fin ; both above and below, is a groove, that un- 
 derneath rather smaller than that above. The caudal fin divided in- 
 to two lobes, the upper one larger than the lower ; the posterior edge 
 of the caudal fin appears to become notched and abraded by age and 
 use, and is frequently found unequal at its margin, and variable in 
 shape." (Yarrell.) 
 
 The Basking Shark, one of the largest of this tribe of 
 fishes, has been observed several times on the British coast. 
 Mr -Low considers it as common in the Orkneys. Dr Neill 
 states in the Wernerian Transactions, vol. i., that it is 
 common in the Scottish seas, occasionally, though seldom, 
 entering the Firth of Forth. It has been taken, accord- 
 ing to Mr Yarrell, on the coasts of Waterford, Wales, 
 Cornwall, Devonshire, and several times at different places 
 on the coast of Sussex. It has been known to measure 
 thirty-six feet in length. Pennant supposes that it subsists 
 entirely on marine plants, for on examination of the con- 
 tents of the stomach, no remains of fish have been found. 
 Mr Low says, that a specimen he examined contained a 
 red pulpy mass, like bruised crabs or the roe of Echini. 
 Its food is considered by Linnaeus to be Medusae. It 
 is stated by Blainville, that no less than four distinct spe- 
 
420 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 cies of shark have been confounded by naturalists under 
 the name of Squalus maximus. 
 
 GENUS SPINAX. First dorsal fin in advance of the 
 ventrals ; anal fin wanting ; temporal orifices present ; 
 branchial openings all before the pectorals ; a sharp, strong 
 spine in front of each of the dorsals. 
 
 SPINAX ACANTHIAS.* THE PICKED Doc-Fisn. 
 
 Description. From a specimen eighteen inches in length. Body 
 fusiform ; nose long ; head depressed. Colour of the back and 
 sides, slate-grey ; under part dull white, in young specimens the 
 back is spotted with white, and the caudal lobe is often margined 
 with pale yellow, First dorsal fin somewhat of a quadrangular 
 form, terminating behind in a projecting point, directed towards the 
 caudal extremity ; the height in front more than equalling the length 
 of the base ; situated about one-third of the whole length from the 
 point of the nose. Second dorsal fin smaller than the first, and an- 
 swering to it in shape ; placed about mid- way between it and the end 
 of the caudal lobe ; in front of both dorsals is a strong, sharp spine, 
 the one behind being much the longer of the two. Caudal lobe 
 rounded at the end ; the lower lobe triangular and rather larger than 
 the second dorsal ; ventrals approaching to a quadrangular, situated 
 under the middle of the space between the two dorsals. Pectorals 
 of a triangular form, rather larger than the first dorsal, concave be- 
 hind, slightly rounded on the upper margin. Nostrils small, placed 
 beneath, about half-way between the tip of the snout and the upper 
 jaw, partly covered by a minute membranous flap ; branchial open- 
 ings five on each side of the neck, all before the pectorals. Under 
 jaw shortest; teeth small, not denticulated, placed in two or three 
 rows in each jaw, their points directed towards the angle of the 
 snout, very sharp and cutting ; a large temporal orifice situated a 
 little behind the posterior angle of each orbit ; lateral line tolerably 
 defined ; skin rough when the hand is passed from tail to head, but 
 of a granulated feel in the opposite direction. 
 
 The Dog-Fish is a well-known species of Shark, and is 
 common on almost every part of the British coast, more 
 especially on that of Cornwall, where as many as twenty 
 
 * Spinax acanthias, Cuv., Yarr. Squalus acanthias, Jen., Linn. Bone- 
 dog, Hoe, Orkney, Dog-fish. 
 
THE PICKED DOG-FISH. 421 
 
 thousand are said to have been taken in a net at one time. 
 In the Firth of Forth they are captured principally in the 
 salmon nets, in the months of July and August, when they 
 are seen, after the recess of the tide, hanging in dozens, 
 with their heads in the meshes of the net. In the neigh- 
 bourhood of Edinburgh they are never made use of except 
 occasionally as bait for other fishes, although in some parts of 
 Scotland the flesh is salted, and dried and eaten by the 
 poorer classes of the people. The Dog-fish is ovovivipar- 
 ous, producing many young at a time. It is very voraci- 
 ous, feeds on small fishes; and pursues its prey in companies, 
 when it proves of great annoyance to the fishermen. This 
 fish is readily distinguished from the rest of the British 
 sharks, in having a sharp conspicuous spine in front of 
 each dorsal fin, a character which none of the others possess, 
 and which, in this species, is always found constant. 
 
 GENUS SQUATINA. Body broad, flattened horizon- 
 tally, pectorals large, separated from the neck by a cleft, 
 in which are the branchial openings ; mouth at the extre- 
 mity of the snout ; eyes above not lateral ; temporal orifices 
 present ; no anal fin ; both dorsals behind the ventrals. 
 
 SQUATINA ANGELUS.* THE ANGEL-FISH. 
 
 Description. From a specimen twenty-one inches in length ; it 
 is said sometimes to grow to the length of eight feet. Form, more 
 resembling the ray than that of the shark ; body broad and depressed 
 anteriorly, somewhat of a triangular form from the snout to the end 
 of the pectorals, elongated and tapering behind the ventrals ; the 
 upper part of the body rather convex ; the under part flat ; the 
 greatest breadth across the pectorals ; head in front of a rounded 
 form, wider than the body, not including the pectorals ; mouth 
 rather large, situated at the extremity, somewhat protractile ; under 
 jaw a little the shortest ; teeth very sharp, broad at the base, placed 
 
 * Squalina angelus, Cuv., Yarr. Squatina vulgaris, Flem. Squalls squa- 
 tina, Linn., Bloch, Penn. Monk-Fish, Fiddle-Fish., Shark-ray, Kingston. 
 
422 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 wide apart from each other, arranged in three or four rows in each 
 jaw, with the points directed inwards ; vomer smooth, without 
 teeth ; eyes above,, small, placed wide apart from each other ; nos- 
 trils small, situated at the extremity of the snout in front of the eyes ; 
 furnished with two elongated valves or loose membranes attached to 
 the inner margins ; temporal orifices large, nearly twice the size of 
 the orbit, placed transversely a little behind, and on the outer side 
 of each eye ; snout blunt, slightly notched in the middle ; branchial 
 openings rather small, placed on each side of the neck in front of the 
 pectorals ; pectorals large, somewhat of a triangular form at the outer 
 edge, terminating in front by an acute detached point or angle, 
 rounded at the lower margin ; ventrals, not half the size of the pec- 
 torals, situated behind, of a triangular form, with the inferior extre- 
 mities terminating in a loose point diregted backwards j dorsal fins 
 two, placed behind the ventrals ; the first is situated about half-way 
 between the tip of the caudal lobe and the termination of the pecto- 
 ral fins, somewhat of a triangular form ; the anterior margin oblique ; 
 the posterior margin nearly vertical; the second dorsal is rather 
 smaller than the first and nearly of the same form, placed about half- 
 way bet ween the base of the caudal lobe and the termination of the first 
 dorsal ; ventrals wanting. Skin on the under surface of a dirty white ; 
 on the upper surface grey, inclining to chocolate, very rough, covered 
 with numerous, small prickly tubercles with broad bases and bent 
 points, causing the skin to feel granulated when the hand is passed 
 from head to tail, and very rough in the contrary direction ; caudal 
 fin obliquely bifurcated, the upper lobe rather the longest, of a tri- 
 angular form, a little more than equalling the size of the first dorsal. 
 
 On some parts of the English coast, more especially in 
 the counties of Devon and Cornwall, we find this singular 
 looking fish of frequent occurrence, and from its supposed 
 resemblance in form to that of a fiddle it has occasionally 
 received the name of Fiddle-Fish. It is frequently taken 
 on the coasts of Kent and Sussex, where it is called a King- 
 ston, but on the eastern shores of Scotland it is seldom seen. 
 It has been, however, noticed by Dr Neill as occurring oc- 
 casionally in the Firth of Forth, and I myself have met 
 with two examples taken with the hook in the month of 
 June from the same quarter, but they were rather small, 
 not exceeding two feet in length, the fishermen having no 
 name for them farther than that of Mongrel Skate. 
 
THE ANGLE-FISH. 
 
 This fish frequents deep water, keeping close to the bot- 
 tom, and is said to conceal itself under the soft soil ; it is 
 very voracious, and preys on small fishes, principally on 
 the smaller kind of flounders. The flesh is said to be oc- 
 casionally eaten, and is recorded to have been formerly 
 held in high estimation ; some parts of the skin, however, 
 are of value for polishing wood, but every way inferior to 
 the skin of some of the Sharks. 
 
 Mr Yarrell says, a second species of this genus has been 
 supposed to occur on our coasts, but the Angel-Fish is liable 
 to some variation in colour, depending on the nature of the 
 ground in the locality in which it is found. The sexes also 
 exhibit some differences. The females produce their young 
 alive in June. This fish appears as closely allied to the 
 skates as it does to the sharks, but differs from both in 
 many respects. It is readily distinguished from the skates, 
 in the mouth being at the extremity, and the gill-openings 
 being on each side of the neck and not underneath. It 
 differs from the true sharks in having the eyes placed on 
 the upper surface and not laterally. 
 
 FAMILY RAIIDJE. Body very much flattened, resem- 
 bling a disk ; tail more or less long and slender ; branchial 
 openings beneath ; pectorals extremely large, uniting in front 
 with the snout, extending backwards to near the base of 
 the ventrals ; mouth and nostrils beneath ; eyes and tem- 
 poral orifices above ; dorsals when present almost always up- 
 on the tail. 
 
 GENUS RA1A. Tail slender, furnished with one or more 
 rows of spines, and two small dorsal fins towards its ex- 
 tremity. 
 
424 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 (I. Snout sharp, more or less elongated.) 
 
 RAIA BATIS.* THE SKATE. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body on the upper surface rough, of a grey 
 colour beneath ; no spines in front of the eyes. (See Plate XL.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen two feet in length, the tail 
 included. Body rhomboidal ; the distance from the tip of one pec- 
 toral to that of the other, equalling the space between the point of 
 the snout and the last spine but six on the tail ; from the point of 
 the snout to the temporal orifice, one-third the length, as far as the 
 end of the anal fin, and one-fourth the length to the commencement 
 of the first dorsal. Body thin ; snout pointed, conical ; pectorals 
 large, somewhat of a triangular form, uniting in front at the snout, 
 and terminating at the base of the ventrals ; the anterior margins 
 nearly straight, the posterior margins rounded; ventrals about twice 
 as long as they are broad, each composed of five rays ; the first ray 
 stout and flat, the third the longest, giving a rounded form to the 
 extremity of the fin ; anals commencing close behind the ventrals, 
 the outer margin of each rounded, terminating below in a free point, 
 composed of twenty rays ; the middle rays rather the longest, the first 
 ray taking its origin with the last ray of the ventral. Tail short, con- 
 siderably less than the length of the body, when reflected not reaching 
 beyond the anterior part of the orbit ; along the mesial line is a row of 
 spines or tubercles, about sixteen in number, commencing at the base 
 of the anal, and terminating at the commencement of the first dorsal ; 
 there is also frequently a solitary spine between the two dorsals ; 
 each tubercle has a broad oval base, and a sharp point directed back- 
 ward. In adult specimens there are three rows of spines on the tail, 
 the two lateral ones having the points of the spine pointing outwards, 
 but not upwards, as Mr Yarrell has represented in his figure of the 
 skate. (Vol. ii. p. 421.) The lateral spines are frequently very few, 
 sometimes not exceeding six in number. First dorsal fin small, 
 rounded at the free extremity j the length about equalling the base ; 
 placed at a short distance from the end of the tail ; second dorsal 
 rather smaller than the first and about the same form, commencing 
 at a short distance from its termination ; caudal fin rudimentary. 
 Colour of the upper surface of a dusky grey, occasionally with a pale 
 yellowish tinge ; under surface of a dusky bluish-j rey, marked with 
 a number of dark specks, particularly about the under surface of the 
 
 * Rain batis, Linn., Yarr., Penn., Don., Flem. Blue Skate,Grey Skate. 
 
THE SKATE. 425 
 
 snout and around the mouth ; eyes rather small, flattened above, 
 placed immediately in front of the temporal orifices, which are of an 
 oval form and rather smaller than the orbits. Skin above rough, pre- 
 senting a granulated feel to the touch ; no spines in front of the 
 eyes or along the mesial line of the back j that part round the base 
 of the ventrals is generally smooth. Mouth large, placed beneath, 
 capable of being widely expanded ; teeth numerous, sharp pointed, 
 with broad bases, arranged in several rows in each jaw. 
 
 " The males in this, and in all the other species of this fa- 
 mily, besides possessing the ventral appendages, are cha- 
 racterized by several parallel rows of sharp hooked spines 
 on the anterior lobe, and at the angle of each of the pecto- 
 rals. These spines are always very much reclined and 
 partly concealed, with the points directed inwards. They 
 are quite independent of the other, generally larger and 
 more erect spines, which are more or less characteristic of 
 the particular species. The number of rows, and the num- 
 ber in each row, depend upon age, being greatest in the 
 oldest individuals ; sometimes in very young males these 
 sexual spines, as they may be termed, hardly shew themselves 
 at all. It may be added that the teeth also often differ in 
 the two sexes, the males generally having them sharper and 
 more pointed than the other sex." Jenyns. In some parts 
 of the coast the fishermen name those individuals with the 
 ventral appendages much developed, the Three-tailed Skate , 
 they being, at the same time, perfectly aware that it is the 
 characteristic mark of the males only. The females are said 
 to cast their eggs from May to September, and the young 
 appear some time during the spring following. Their eggs 
 are brown, coriaceous, and squared, with the angles pro- 
 longed into points. These are often met with on the sea- 
 shores, and commonly known by the name of Sailors' 
 Pockets. 
 
 This species of Skate as noticed by Pennant is sometimes 
 
426 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 taken the weight of two hundred pounds. It is common 
 on all parts of the British coast, and has received various 
 names according to the locality in which it occurs. In 
 Scotland it is named Skate or Blue Skate, in England Grey 
 Skate ; and according to Yarrell, at Lyne Regis, on ac- 
 count of its dusky grey colour, it is called Tinker. In the 
 Firth of Forth these fish are met with in great numbers, 
 particularly in the neighbourhood of the Bass and the May, 
 where they are taken in nets, and are often found on lines 
 set in deep water for cod. In the spring months, the 
 Edinburgh market has a daily supply, and so great is the 
 demand required, that no less than a dozen cart loads 
 are sold during the week. Some persons cook them when 
 newly caught, others dress them in the salted condition, 
 while others again allow them to hang in the open air for 
 weeks, until they have acquired a green putrescent ap- 
 pearance, and in this state they are considered a luxury. 
 The pectoral fins are the parts generally made use of as 
 food, and when cut in a peculiar form are sold under the 
 name of crimped skate, which is esteemed a delicate morsel. 
 The French are said to be remarkably fond of this species 
 of skate, especially when large ; the smaller specimens about 
 the size of a common plate when fried are particularly sweet 
 and delicate, and are brought to the Edinburgh market in 
 the month of July with other skate of small size. 
 
 According to Colonel Montagu, the immense quantities of 
 this tribe of fishes which are taken in the county of Devon, 
 are chiefly used for baiting crab-pots. It has been com- 
 puted that four boats employed in crabbing, consume in 
 one season twenty tons of fish, principally ray ; but it is 
 probable, not less than forty tons of ray are brought on 
 shore by fishermen of the small hamlets of Torcross on the 
 
THE SHARP-NOSED BAY. 427 
 
 south coast of Devon, in one season, besides what are con- 
 signed to the deep immediately as useless. The reason of 
 this vast consumption of coarse fish in catching crabs, is, 
 that they are extremely nice in the choice of their food, and 
 will not enter the pots when the bait is the least tainted. 
 In this particular the crab differs from the lobster, which 
 cannot be taken but by bait in a state of putridity. The 
 skate is very various, and keeps to the bottom on rocky 
 ground ; it takes a baited hook with eagerness, and feeds 
 on almost any animal substance it meets with, but flat fish 
 and Crustacea seem its principal food. " Mr Couch has 
 known five different species of fish, besides Crustacea taken 
 from the stomach of a single individual." The principal 
 characters which distinguish this species of skate, are, the 
 snout sharp, conic, the lateral margins not parallel ; the 
 skin on the upper surface of the body rough, having a gra- 
 nulated feel when the hand is passed over the pectorals ; 
 no spines round any part of the orbits, or along the dorsal 
 ridge of the body ; the lateral spines at the base of the tail, 
 when present, are perfectly straight, their points directed 
 outwards, and not downwards as those on the central ridge ; 
 the under surface of the body is never white, but of a dusky 
 greyish-blue marked with a number of dark specks. In 
 young individuals the upper surface is smooth to the touch ; 
 and the lateral caudal spines are wanting. 
 
 RAIA OXYRHYNCHUS.* THE SHARP-NOSED RAY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body, on the upper surface, smooth, on the 
 under surface of a pure white ; no spines in front of the eyes. 
 
 Description. " In the length of the body, this species sometimes 
 exceeds six feet, and weighs nearly five hundred pounds. The back 
 is quite smooth of a plain brown colour ; the under surface white- 
 
 * liaia oxyrhynchus, Mont., Yarr., Jen., Penn. White Skate, Burton 
 Skate. 
 
428 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 free from spots or specks ; the body is remarkably depressed, more so 
 than that of the grey skate, and is not so dark a colour. Tail short, 
 with three rows of spines all pointing downwards." 
 
 The Raia batis or Grey Skate has been frequently con- 
 founded with the Sharp-nosed Ray. The differences between 
 them, however, have been very clearly pointed out by Co- 
 lonel Montagu. " The Sharp-nosed Ray has a slender 
 snout, the margins of which, in a moderate sized fish, run 
 nearly parallel to each other, from three or four inches at 
 the extremity ; the snout of the Grey Skate, on the con- 
 trary, is truly conical. The Sharp-nosed Ray has its skin 
 quite smooth ; the Grey Skate is entirely rough above, or 
 granulated like a dog-fish, and partly so beneath. The 
 under part of the Sharp-nosed Ray is white without spots ; 
 the Grey Skate on that part is dusky grey, covered with 
 minute dusky spots, having a pale speck in the middle. 
 Both species have three rows of spines on the tail when ar- 
 rived at maturity, but those of the Grey Skate differ from 
 most other rays, by the points of the lateral rows turning 
 forward.* The teeth of both species are sharp, with a 
 broad base; but those of the Grey Skate are not near so long, 
 and more closely connected. The sexes of both species are 
 discriminated by the formidable reclined hooked spines on 
 the pectorals, as well as by the posterior appendages which 
 are peculiar to the males." It is recorded by Dr Neill in the 
 1st vol. of the Wernerian Memoirs, that this species of ray 
 is occasionally met with in the Firth of Forth ; and I am 
 informed by the fishermen that specimens of large size are 
 frequently taken off the coast of Aberdeen ; but as no ex- 
 ample has hitherto fallen under my own immediate notice, 
 
 * In those specimens I have examined, these points were always directed 
 outwards, not forwards. 
 
THE FLAPPER SKATE. 429 
 
 I cannot vouch for the accuracy of the statement, as it is 
 probable that the fishermen might have confounded it with 
 a large example of the Grey Skate. It seems not an un- 
 common fish on the coast of Cornwall ; " where the smaller 
 sized specimens are taken throughout the year ; but those 
 which are larger, keep in deep water and are only taken in 
 summer and autumn." It is said to be a fish much sought 
 after by the French, who consume large quantities of it du- 
 ring Lent. 
 
 RAIA INTERMEDIA. THE FLAPPER SKATE. Parnell. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body on the upper surface smooth ; on the 
 under -surface of a dark, dusky grey ; one or more spines in front of 
 each eye. (Plate XL.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen two feet in length, tail in- 
 cluded. Body rhomboidal, the transverse diameter equalling the dis- 
 tance between the point of the snout and the last tubercle but three 
 on the central ridge of the tail ; from the point of the snout to the 
 temporal orifice, rather more than one-third the length, as far as the 
 end of the anal fin, and one-fourth the length as far as the termination 
 of the first dorsal. Body very thin ; snout pointed, conical ; pecto- 
 rals large, somewhat of a triangular form, uniting in front at the snout, 
 and terminating at the base of the ventrals ; the anterior margin ra- 
 ther concave, the posterior margin rounded ; ventrals about three 
 times the length of their breadth ; anals commencing close behind 
 the ventrals and terminating in a free point, rounded at the outer 
 margins. Tail short and firm, being no longer than the space from 
 the base of the anal fin to the anterior margin of the orbit ; along the 
 mesial line is a row of tubercles with sharp points directed down- 
 wards, about eighteen in number, commencing at the base of the anal 
 and terminating at the commencement of the first dorsal fin ; no la- 
 teral spines visible. First dorsal fin small, rounded at the free extre- 
 mity, situated about one-third the length of the tail from the tip ; the 
 base about equalling the length ; second dorsal rather smaller than 
 the first, and about the same form, placed about half-way between 
 the termination of the first and the tip of the tail ; caudal fin rudi- 
 mentary. Colour of the upper surface of the body of a dark olive- 
 green with numerous large white spots ; on the under surface dark 
 grey with minute specks of a deeper colour. Eyes rather small, flat- 
 tened above, placed in front of the temporal orifices ; skin both above 
 
430 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 and below perfectly smooth ; a strong, sharp, bent spine in front of 
 each orbit ; no spines or tubercles of any description on the back. 
 Mouth large, placed beneath ; teeth small, not so large or so sharp 
 as those in Raia batis. 
 
 This fish, which was obtained in the Firth of Forth in 
 the month of May, seems to be a new species of Skate, since 
 I am not aware of its having been previously described. 
 It appears to be the connecting link between Raia batis 
 and Raia oxyrhynchuS) to both of which it is closely allied, 
 and it is from this circumstance that I suggest the specific 
 name of intermedia. 
 
 It is distinguished from Raia batis, in the upper surface 
 of the body being perfectly smooth, without granulations, 
 and of a dark olive colour spotted with white ; in the ante- 
 rior part of each orbit being furnished with a strong spine 
 pointing towards the tail ; in the dorsal fins being more 
 remote from each other, and in the anterior margins of 
 the pectorals rather more concave, giving the snout a 
 sharper appearance ; whereas, in Raia batis , the upper sur- 
 face of the body is rough to the touch, of a uniform dusky 
 grey without spots ; the orbits without spines ; the dorsals 
 nearly approximate, and the anterior margins of the pecto- 
 rals nearly straight. 
 
 It is likewise removed from Raia oxyrhynchus, in the 
 snout being conic ; the under surface of the body dark grey ; 
 a spine in front of each orbit, and the back of a dark olive- 
 green spotted with white; whereas, in the Raia oxyrhyn- 
 chus, the snout is sharp and long, with the lateral margins 
 parallel near the tip ; the under surface of the body pure 
 white, and the back of a plain brown without spots. 
 
 I have met with two examples of a variety of this fish 
 which were taken in the salmon-nets at Queensferry. They 
 were both of small size, about eighteen inches in length. 
 
THE SHAGREEN RAY. 401 
 
 The back was of a uniform dark olive-green without spots of 
 any description, covered with a thick mucus ; under surface 
 of a dark grey ; body very thin ; snout sharp, conical ; pec- 
 torals at their anterior margins rather sinuous, passing off 
 somewhat suddenly at that part, in a line with the tempo- 
 ral orifices^ giving the outline of the anterior part quite a 
 different appearance to that observed in Ram intermedia ; 
 the anterior part of each orbit is furnished with a spine ; 
 back perfectly smooth ; tail with one row of spines on the 
 dorsal ridge ; fins, and in all other respects, similar to Ram 
 intermedia. (Plate XLI.) 
 
 RAIA CHAGRINEA.* THE SHAGREEN RAY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body on the upper surface very rough ; on 
 the under surface of a pure white ; a row of spines round the inner 
 edge of each orbit ; two rows of large bent spines on the tail. (Plate 
 XLI.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen three feet two inches in 
 length, tail included. Body of a rhomboidal form ; the transverse 
 diameter rather greater than the distance between the tip of the snout 
 and the end of the anal rays ; from the point of the snout to the tip 
 of the pectoral, from thence to the base of the ventral fin on the op- 
 posite side, equal ; the length of the tail equal to the distance from 
 its base to the posterior margin of the orbit ; from the tip of the snout 
 to the middle of the eye, one-seventh of the whole length, caudal 
 included ; the transverse cartilage is situated mid-way between the 
 extremity of the nose and the termination of the base of the anal fin. 
 Snout sharp, conate; the anterior margins of the pectorals slightly 
 sinuous ; the posterior margins rounded ; ventrals narrow, being three 
 or four times longer than their breadth, placed between the termi- 
 nation of the large broad pectorals and the commencement of the 
 anals, composed of five rays, of which the second is the longest. Anals 
 rounded at their outer margins, and terminating free below, about 
 five times the breadth of the ventrals, each furnished with about 
 twenty-one rays. Dorsals approximate, small and thin, situated 
 nearly at the extremity of the tail, both of equal size, rounded at their 
 posterior free margins ; each fin furnished with eight rays, which ap- 
 
 * Raia chagrinea, Mont., Penn., Jen. 
 
432 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 peaF to branch off from one large ray situated horizontally. Caudal 
 fin rudimentary, about half the length of the base of the second dor- 
 sal. Colour of the upper surface of the body of an uniform yellow- 
 ish-brown ; under surface pure white. Eyes large ; a temporal ori- 
 fice situated at the posterior part and a little on the outer side of 
 each orbit j mouth large, placed beneath ; teeth strong and sharp 
 pointed, arranged in each jaw in many rows. Skin on the upper 
 surface very rough, having a granulated feel when the hand is passed 
 over the pectorals ; at the base of the ventral and anal fins, the skin 
 is perfectly smooth. About six large bent spines, with broad bases, 
 situated on the upper part of the snout ; round the inner margin of 
 each orbit are from ten to twelve of these spines, arranged in the 
 form of a crescent ; on the dorsal ridge, from the nape to the trans- 
 verse cartilage, is a row of six spines ; about a little more than half- 
 way down the back, commence two rows of spines, which run down 
 the tail as far as the first dorsal fin j the first ten or twelve spines are 
 very small, the rest gradually increase in size as -they proceed ; no 
 spines on the central ridge of the tail ; each spine has its broad base 
 more or less grooved, and its point directed backwards ; on each side of 
 the base of the tail are a number of small hooked spines, placed in 
 two or three irregular rows. 
 
 It appears nearly certain, that the fish figured and de- 
 scribed in Mr YarrelPs work on the British Fishes, vol. II. 
 p. 414, under the name of the Long-nosed Skate or Raia 
 chagrinea, is not the same as the Shagreen Ray of Mon- 
 tagu, or of Pennant, nor does it agree with the fish above 
 described, which seems to me identical with the Shagreen 
 Ray of Montagu. In Mr Yarrell's example, the nose is 
 very long, much longer than that observed in the Grey 
 Skate ; the upper surface of the body slightly roughened 
 and of a light lead colour ; the second fin on the tail about 
 its own length from the end. The under surface of a dirty 
 greyish-white marked with dusky spots like the true skate 
 (Raia batis) ; the lateral caudal spines are represented in the 
 figure as being perfectly straight, their points directed out- 
 wards. In the specimen now before me, although it belongs 
 to the sharp-nosed division of skates, the snout is not so 
 long as that observed in the Grey Skate of equal size. If 
 
THE SHAGREEN RAY. 433 
 
 we compare two specimens, one of Raia batis and the other 
 of Ram chagrinea of Montagu, each of three feet in length, 
 we shall find, that, Raia batis measures, from the tip of the 
 snout to the eye, seven inches ; whereas, in the Raia cha- 
 grinea of Montagu, the distance between these points mea- 
 sures but five inches, presenting a very striking difference 
 when the two fish are placed together. 
 
 The principal characters which distinguish the Raia cha- 
 grinea from the rest of the skates, are in the dorsal surface 
 of the tail having only two rows of spines, and none on the 
 central ridge ; these rows commence at the first dorsal fin, 
 and extend nearly as far as half-way up the back of the fish, 
 where the spines become very small, and not half the size 
 of those on the lower portion of the tail. 
 
 This is a rare species of Skate, few naturalists appearing 
 to have met with it. Colonel Montagu has noticed it on 
 the Devonshire coast, and Pennant obtained a specimen from 
 Scarborough ; but whether it is found to inhabit the Cornish 
 coast does not appear to have been altogether accurately 
 determined, since the fish figured and described by Mr 
 Yarrell under the name of Raia chagrinea, may probably 
 prove a new species. 
 
 In the Firth of Forth the Shagreen Ray is occasionally 
 taken in skate-nets set in deep water, more especially in the 
 months of May and June, when a few may be seen in the 
 Edinburgh market along with grey skate and thornbacks. 
 It is known to fishermen under the name of Rough Flap- 
 per, and its flesh is considered inferior as food to that of the 
 other species of skate, it being soft and dry. It feeds on 
 small star-fish and crustaceous animals in general. 
 
 VOL. vn, E e 
 
434 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 (II. Snout short, and rather obtuse.) 
 
 RAIA MACULATA.* THE SPOTTED RAY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper surface smooth, marked with distinct, 
 roundish, dusky spots. (Plate XLII.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen eighteen inches in length, 
 tail included. Form of the body more strictly rhomboidal than that 
 of the last-described species ; from the tip of one pectoral to that of 
 the other, about equalling the space between the point of the snout, 
 and half-way down the tail ; from the point of the snout to the tip 
 of the pectoral, from thence to the end of the base of the anal, about 
 equal ; from the base of the anal to the tip of the tail, nearly equal- 
 ling the length of the body ; from the tip of the snout to the tempo- 
 ral orifices, one-sixth part the length of the whole, tail included. Co- 
 lour of the upper surface reddish-brown, marked with a number of 
 large, dusky, brown spots, particularly on the pectorals. (" A variety 
 is not uncommon in which the usual spots are nearly obsolete, but 
 there is more or less trace of one oscillated spot in the middle of each 
 pectoral. Montagu has noticed two kinds of this last variety, one 
 with a large dark spot surrounded with a white circle, the other with 
 a black spot -within a white circle, the whole surrounded by five 
 equidistant dark spots. Another variety is in the museum of the 
 Cambridge Philosophical Society, in which the upper parts are pale 
 orange-yellow, with light, rufous, brown spots." Jenyns.} Under 
 surface white ; snout obtuse, scarcely projecting beyond the margins 
 of the pectorals ; the outline of the anterior part of each pectoral, 
 sinuous j the posterior part rounded; ventrals small and narrow, 
 about three times longer than their breadth, situated between the 
 termination of the pectorals and the commencement of the anals, 
 composed of five rays, of which the second is rather the longest. 
 Anals about three times broader than the ventrals, each rounded at 
 the outer margin, and terminating in a free point below, composed 
 of seventeen rays ; dorsals small, two in number, situated at the 
 lower part of the tail, and at a little distance from each other ; both 
 nearly of equal size and rough to the touch, rounded at the posterior 
 margins, furnished with a reclined ray from which arise seven smaller 
 ones ; caudal rudimentary, about half the length of the second dor- 
 sal. Eyes rather small ; temporal orifices larger, one placed at the 
 outer and posterior part of each orbit ; mouth placed on the under 
 
 * Raia maculata, Yarr., Jen., Mont. Raia rubus, Don. Homelyn Ray, 
 Howmelin, Sand ray, The Home. 
 
THE SPOTTED RAY. 435 
 
 surface of the body, nearly in a vertical line with the eyes ; teeth 
 small and blunt, arranged in several rows in each jaw. In adult 
 individuals the teeth are sharp pointed in both sexes. Body on the 
 upper surface smooth ; in some specimens it is slightly granulated 
 on the anterior part of the pectorals and between the eyes ; round 
 the inner margin of each orbit are four or five strong hooked spines 
 with their points directed towards the tail ; on the dorsal ridge is a 
 row of spines which commences immediately behind the nape, and 
 runs down the back, along the central ridge of the tail as far as the 
 first dorsal fin ; the spines on the tail are stronger than those above ; 
 a solitary spine is often placed at each extremity of the transverse dor- 
 sal cartilage ; in adult specimens there are three rows of spines on 
 the tail, but when young the lateral rows are wanting. The series 
 of spines down the line of the back is frequently interrupted, and 
 sometimes rudimentary. The males, besides possessing the usual 
 anal appendages, have their pectorals armed with two or three rows 
 of strong bent spines with the points directed towards the dorsal 
 line, which, however, do not shew themselves till a certain age. 
 
 There are four species of skate met with on the English 
 shores, belonging to the short-nosed division of rays, three 
 of which are found to occur on the coast of Scotland ; and 
 although the spotted ray is one of the rarest of the species 
 met with in the Firth of Forth, it is said to be one of the 
 most common along the line of the southern coast. Seldom 
 more than six or eight examples of this fish are observed in 
 the .Edinburgh market during the season, and the largest 
 scarcely ever exceeding the length of twenty inches, while, 
 on some parts of the English coast, they are occasionally 
 found from two and a half to three feet in length. 
 
 The Spotted-Ray is distinguished from the rays al- 
 ready described, in the snout being short and obtuse, ex- 
 tending but a little beyond the anterior margins of the pec- 
 torals, and in the upper surface of the body being marked 
 with a number of distinct, dusky spots, about the size of the 
 temporal orifices. It is at once distinguished from the two 
 next species to be noticed by the smoothness of the upper 
 
 surface of the pectorals. 
 
 E e 2 
 
436 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 RAIA CLAVATA.* THE THORNBACK. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper surface very rough ; one row of spines 
 down the line of the back. (Plate XLII.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen twenty inches in length, tail 
 included. Form of the body rhomboidal, similar to that of the spot- 
 ted-ray ; its transverse diameter equalling the space between the tip 
 of the snout and half-way down the tail ; from the point of the snout 
 to the tip of the pectoral, from thence to the lower point of the anal 
 fin, equal ; from the base of the anal to the tip of the tail about the 
 length of the anterior margin of the pectoral ; from the tip of the 
 snout to the temporal orifices one-third of the length, as far as the 
 termination of the base of the anal fin. Colour of the back of a blu- 
 ish-grey, with a number of ill-defined, large, whitish spots scattered 
 over the pectorals, liable to great variations. In some examples 
 there is a large ocellated spot on each side of the dorsal line. Under 
 surface pure white ; snout obtuse, slightly projecting beyond the 
 anterior margins of the pectorals ; the outline of the anterior border 
 of each pectoral sinuous ; the posterior border slightly rounded ; 
 ventrals small, placed between the commencement of the anals and 
 the termination of the pectorals, their length about three times longer 
 than their breadth ; anal rounded at the outer margin, and ending 
 below in a free point, furnished with about twenty rays, of which 
 the last is rather the longest. Dorsal fins two, rather remote, nearly 
 of equal form and size ; placed on the lower portion of the tail ; their 
 posterior margins rounded and somewhat free. Caudal fin rudimen- 
 tary, nearly half the length of the base of the second dorsal. Eyes 
 about the size of the temporal orifices ; mouth situated beneath, 
 teeth blunt, arranged in several oblique rows in each jaw. (In the 
 females both young and old, the teeth are always blunt, allowing the 
 finger to be passed freely over them in any direction ; in young 
 males the teeth are also blunt ; but in adult specimens they generally 
 become long and very sharp.) Body on the upper surface very 
 rough, covered with minute spicula, besides a number of large spines 
 with broad bases ; these spines however are very variable, in dif- 
 ferent individuals, both in number and position ; in some examples 
 they are nearly altogether wanting ; but the series along the middle 
 'line of the back and tail is almost always present. 
 
 In the specimen now before me, there is one spine on the 
 upper surface of the snout ; one on each side a little farther 
 
 * Raia clavatcii Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Mont., Penn., Flem. Maiden Skate. 
 Scotland. 
 
THE THORNBACK. 437 
 
 down and set wide apart from each other ; four on the in- 
 ner margin of each orbit ; none on any part of the pec- 
 torals ; a row commencing behind the nape, and running 
 down the central ridge as far as the first dorsal fin ; also 
 a few on each side of the tail. In another specimen of 
 three feet in length, there are more than three hundred 
 large spines on the upper surface of the body, mixed with 
 innumerable small spicula, and one hundred and eighty on 
 the under surface, besides a hundred and fifty on the tail, 
 arranged in seven rows. I have occasionally met with a va- 
 riety, having two rows of spines running up the back as 
 far as the nape, the dorsal ridge being without spines. A 
 specimen presenting this anomaly is in the College Mu- 
 seum of Edinburgh. 
 
 The Thornback is a common species in the Firth of 
 Forth, and seems generally dispersed throughout the Bri- 
 tish coast. It is so well known and so strongly charac- 
 terized by the roughness of its skin on the upper sur- 
 face, that it is seldom mistaken for any of its congeners. 
 Large quantities are taken in nets in the months of May 
 and June in nearly every part of the Firth of Forth ; but 
 more especially on the sands of Aberlady, Musselburgh, 
 Burntisland, and Queensferry. The young specimens from 
 a foot to a foot and a half in length, are named maidens or 
 maiden skates, and are considered the best size for the table, 
 the flesh being sweeter and more delicate than that of the 
 larger individuals. It forms a cheap and wholesome article 
 of food to numbers of the lower classes of inhabitants. 
 
 This fish is very voracious, and feeds on every kind of 
 small flounder. It is particularly fond of herrings and 
 sand-eels, as well as crustaceous animals, such as small 
 crabs and lobsters, which the teeth of the female are well 
 adapted to crush. Its flesh during the spring and summer 
 
438 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 months is not so firm or so wholesome as in autumn and 
 winter. The eggs are shed in the early part of the sea- 
 son, and are occasionally found on the shores with the 
 embryo skate enclosed. When about to be excluded from 
 the horny capsule its tail is disproportionately long, end- 
 ing in a sharp point without an apparent rudiment of a 
 fin. It is capable of being preserved alive in a glass ves- 
 sel for a considerable period, the sea-water being daily re- 
 newed. 
 
 That the adult male Thornback has sharp- pointed teeth 
 does not appear a character so constant, as is supposed by 
 some authors, since I have met with three full grown ex- 
 amples, in which the teeth were as blunt as those observed in 
 the female Thornback. One of the specimens now before me, 
 obtained in the Firth of Forth in the month of September, 
 presents the following characters. Length of the whole 
 fish two feet two inches ; transverse diameter of the body 
 twenty-one inches ; anal appendages six inches, extending 
 half-way down the tail ; at near the tip of the broadest part 
 of each pectoral is a row of long reclined spines, about 
 twelve in number, with their point directed towards the 
 dorsal line ; also on or near the margins of the pectorals, 
 in a line with the eyes, are several large spines placed in a 
 cluster with their points directed downwards ; teeth blunt, 
 allowing the finger to be passed in either direction over 
 their summits, without the vestige of a point to be felt ; 
 the teeth being as blunt as those observed in the female 
 specimens of the Thornback. 
 
 A variety of the Thornback is said sometimes to occur, 
 having a dorsal fin on the back, and is named by some 
 authors Raia Cuvieri. A specimen is recorded by Dr Neill 
 to have been taken in the Firth of Forth in 1808. 
 
THE STARRY RAY. 439 
 
 RAIA RADIATA.* THE STARRY RAY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Upper surface rough, with large, sharp tu- 
 bercles radiated at their bases ; three rows of spines on the tail run- 
 ning up the back as far as the transverse cartilage. (Plate XLIII.) 
 
 Description. From a female specimen, seventeen inches in 
 length. Form of the body rhomboidal ; but not so broad in pro- 
 portion to its length as that observed in the thornback j its trans- 
 verse diameter equalling the space between the tip of the snout 
 and the last tubercle but six on the central ridge of the tail ; from 
 the point of the snout to the tip of the pectoral fin, from thence 
 to the base of the last anal ray on the opposite side, equal ; from the 
 tip of the tail to the base of the last anal ray, from thence to the 
 posterior part of the eye about equal ; from the tip of the snout to 
 the temporal orifices about one-sixth of the whole length, caudal 
 included. Colour of the back of a pale yellowish-brown ; under sur- 
 face of a pure white. Snout obtuse extending but a very little be- 
 yond the anterior, margins of the pectorals ; the outline of the front 
 of the pectorals, somewhat sinuous ; the posterior outline, especially 
 at the lower extremity, rounded. Ventrals small, about three times 
 the length of their breadth ; composed of three rays of which the se- 
 cond is rather the longest. Anals rounded at their outer margins, 
 and terminating below, free ; furnished with fifteen or sixteen rays, 
 the lower ones the longest. Dorsal fins two, placed on the lower 
 part of the tail, at a little distance from each other ; both nearly of 
 equal size and shape, rounded at the posterior border. Caudal rudi- 
 mentary. Eyes rather large, flattened on their summits, about twice 
 the size of the temporal orifices, which are placed one at the poste- 
 rior part of each orbit. Teeth small and sharp pointed, arranged in 
 five or six rows in each jaw. On the upper surface of the body are 
 a number of large conical spines with grooved bases, intermixed with 
 smaller ones with stellated bases, irregularly scattered over the pec- 
 torals, snout, back, and tail ; at the base of the ventrals the skin is 
 perfectly smooth and free from spines ; on the tail are three rows of 
 spines which extend up the back as far as the nape ; the spines form- 
 ing the middle row being about twelve in number, and three times 
 as large as those on the sides. On each orbit are four large spines, 
 two placed anteriorly and two posteriorly ; between the eyes the 
 skin is rough with minute spines with stellated bases ', one large 
 spine on the nape, and two at each extremity of the transverse car- 
 tilage of the back, from whence commences a row of minute spines, 
 which runs down the back to the base of the tail, where it is lost. 
 All the spines have their points directed backwards ; those forming 
 
 * Raia radiata, Don., Yarr. Jen. 
 
440 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the lateral rows on the tail are very much crooked ; those on the 
 central ridge being nearly straight. The under surface of the body 
 is perfectly smooth, without spines of any description. 
 
 This beautiful little Skate, which appears the smallest 
 and best marked species of the genus, was first figured and 
 described by Mr Donovan, from a small specimen taken 
 somewhere off the north coast. It has since been found by 
 Dr Johnston in Berwick Bay ; and by myself, several times 
 in the Firth of Forth ; but in no other localities has it yet 
 been discovered. It inhabits deep water, and is taken with 
 the hook in rocky places in the months of March, April, 
 and May ; but after June until the following spring, it is 
 seldom met with. It is considered as good food, not in- 
 ferior to that of the maiden skate. From two to three spe- 
 cimens can be obtained nearly every week in the Edinburgh 
 market, during the months of April and May. 
 
 The only skate likely to be confounded with the Starry 
 Ray, is a young specimen of thornback ; but it is at all 
 times distinguished, by having three rows of spines run- 
 ning from the tail up the centre of the back ; whereas, in 
 the thornback, there is seldom more than one row of spines 
 along the centre of the back, the lateral rows on the tail 
 scarcely ever extending higher up than the anal fins. 
 
 GENUS TRYGON.^- -Tail slender, armed with a sharp, 
 serrated spine ; but without fins. 
 
 TRYGON f ASTINACA.* THE STING RAY. 
 
 Specific Character. Back smooth. (Plate XLIII.) 
 Description. From a female specimen nineteen inches in length, 
 tail included, and eleven inches in breadth. The outline more ap- 
 proaching to orbicular than in the genus Raia ; the central portion of 
 
 * Trygon pastinaca, Yarr., Cuv. Raia pastinaca, Penn,, Don., Jen. 
 Common Trygon, Fire Flaire. 
 
THE STING RAY. 441 
 
 the body very much raised and convex, becoming thin towards the 
 edges j (dimensions) from the tip of the snout to the outer extre- 
 mity of the pectoral, from thence to the middle of the anal fin, equal ; 
 from the tip of the snout to the temporal orifices, one-third the length 
 to the base of the anals ; from the point of the caudal spine to the 
 base of the last anal ray, from thence to the anterior part of the eye, 
 equal. Colour of the upper surface of the body dark olive with a 
 slight tinge of yellow ; under surface white ; flesh with a faint blush 
 of red. Snout small and pointed, extending but a very little beyond 
 the anterior margins of the pectorals ; ventrals wanting ; anals small ; 
 the lower and inner margins rounded, the outer margins straight ; no 
 fins on the tail or back. Body both above and below perfectly smooth, 
 excepting along the central line of the back, where there is a series of ru- 
 dimentary tubercles situated beneath the skin. Eyes small ; temporal 
 orifices large j teeth small and blunt, arranged in several rows in each 
 jaw j tail long, round, and slender, equalling in length the transverse 
 diameter" of the body, tapering at the extremity to a fine point. About 
 the middle of the tail is placed a sharp-pointed osseous spine of two 
 inches and a half in length, convex on the upper surface, and grooved 
 from the commencement to half-way down ; on its under surface is 
 an elevated central ridge with a deep groove on each side extending 
 the whole length ; the sides of the spine are sharply serrated wit 
 the points of the teeth directed towards the body of the fish. 
 
 We know nothing regarding the habits of the Sting Ray 
 on the coast of Scotland, as its appearance so far north is 
 very rare. The only example I have met with, is that from 
 which the above description is taken. It was captured in 
 the Firth of Forth in the salmon-nets above Queensferry 
 in the month of August, and sent me as being the only fish 
 of the sort the fishermen had ever seen. Mr Yarrell says, 
 " It is more frequently taken on the southern coast than 
 elsewhere, from Sussex even as far west as the county of 
 Cork in Ireland. It appears, however, otherwise to occupy 
 an extensive range, being found in the Mediterranean, from 
 thence to a high degree of north latitude on the coast of 
 Norway." 
 
 According to Mr Couch, " This species keeps on sandy 
 ground at no great distance from land, and, in summer, 
 wanders into shallow water, where it is often entangled in 
 
442 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 the fishermen's nets, the only way in which it is usually 
 caught, for it rarely swallows a bait. The manner in which 
 this fish defends itself, shews its consciousness of the formi- 
 dable weapon it carries on its tail. When seized or terrified, 
 its habit is to twist its long, slender, and flexible tail round 
 the object of attack, and, with the serrated spine, tear the 
 surface, lacerating it in a manner calculated to produce vio- 
 lent inflammation."" It is said, that the ancients were in 
 the habit of using the spine of this species to tip their ar- 
 rows and spears. The flesh of the Sting Ray is seldom 
 eaten, as being rank and disagreeable to the taste ; when 
 cut, it emits a stronger ammoniacal odour than any of the 
 other species of the family. 
 
 ORDER III.CYCLOSTOMI. 
 
 Branchia purse-shaped, fixed, opening outwards by se- 
 veral apertures ; jaws represented by an immoveable carti- 
 laginous ring, formed by the union of the palatine and 
 mandibular bones ; body elongated ; no pectorals or ven- 
 trals ; the skeleton very imperfectly developed ; the intes- 
 tinal canal straight and narrow, without a spiral valve. 
 
 GENUS PETROMYZON. Seven branchial openings 
 on each side of the neck ; maxillary ring armed with strong 
 teeth. 
 
 PETROMYZON MARINUS.* THE SEA LAMPREY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Body greenish, marbled with dark brown ; 
 second dorsal and caudal fins separate. 
 
 Description. From a specimen two and a half feet in length. 
 Body cylindric and nearly of equal size as far as the first dorsal fin, 
 from thence gradually tapering to the end of the tail ; head indis- 
 tinct ; from the point of the snout to the posterior part of the eye, 
 
 * Petromyzon marinus, Cuv., Yarr., Jen., Penn., Flem. 
 
* THE SEA LAMPREY. 443 
 
 one-tenth of the whole length of the body ; eyes small and round 
 placed mid-way between the tip of the snout and the fifth branchial 
 opening. Mouth large, of an oval form ; when widely expanded, 
 circular ; border by a fleshy lip, fringed on the inner surface ; armed 
 on the inside with numerous hard conical tooth-like projections, dis- 
 posed in concentric rows, increasing in size as they advance in- 
 wards; the outer row very small, scarcely perceptible, all the 
 points directed inwards ; immediately beneath the tongue is a se- 
 micircular bone with eight sharp, conical teeth pointing outwards ; 
 on the roof of the mouth is a strong, conical tooth divided in the 
 middle with the points directed outwards and downwards ; tongue 
 bilobed, having each lobe rounded and armed with six fine sharp - 
 pointed teeth ; also a number of minute teeth at the root of the 
 tongue. Branchial openings seven on each side of the neck, ar- 
 rang-ed in a longitudinal series, in a line with the eye ; between 
 and a little in front of the eyes is a small aperture scarcely larger 
 than a pin's head. Two dorsal fins, the first commencing exact- 
 ly mid- way between the eye and the end of the tail, somewhat of 
 a triangular form, the base about four times longer than its height ; 
 second dorsal commencing at a short distance from the termination 
 of the first, and ending at a very short interval from the caudal, 
 commencing at first low and attaining its greatest height somewhat 
 suddenly, from thence sloping gradually off to near the commence- 
 ment of the caudal, its height about one-sixth part the length of its 
 base. Caudal truncated, commencing at first low and then gradual- 
 ly expanding ; pectoral and anal fins wanting. Colour of the back 
 and sides greenish marbled with dark brown ; beneath of a yellowish 
 tinge. Skin perfectly smooth, without scales. 
 
 The Lamprey is a migratory fish ; it leaves the sea early 
 in the spring, and enters the large rivers to spawn, and 
 after this process is accomplished, it returns again to its 
 natural residence some time in autumn. According to 
 Yarrell, " it has a very extensive geographical range. It 
 is found in the Mediterranean, and from thence northwards 
 in most of the rivers in Europe as far as Scandinavia, du- 
 ring spring ; it appears to be common in the rivers of North 
 America, attaining a larger size in those of the more south- 
 ern states, but not exceeding seventeen or twenty inches in 
 length in a high northern latitude. Dr Mitchell also in- 
 cludes this species among his fishes of New York. It is 
 rather common during spring and summer in some of the 
 
444 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 rivers on the southern coast of England, particularly the 
 Severn, and is found in smaller numbers in several of the 
 rivers in Scotland and Ireland about the same period of the 
 year." In the month of May, Lampreys are considered in 
 perfection as food, when numbers are prepared in various 
 ways for the table, but after June they lose the firmness of 
 their flesh, and become soft and unwholesome. The death 
 of Henry the First was occasioned by eating lampreys, 
 probably when out of season. Pennant informs us that it 
 has been an old custom for the city of Gloucester, annually 
 to present his Majesty with a lamprey pie covered with a 
 large raised crust. 
 
 Above Alloa in the Forth, where these fish are not un- 
 common, the fishermen, when they accidentally take them in 
 the nets, invariably return them again to the water, having 
 a prejudice against them. They are consequently never, 
 under any circumstances, seen in the Edinburgh markets. 
 The lamprey and the other species belonging to this genus 
 have the habit of fixing themselves by suction to stones 
 and other solid bodies ; by the same means they attack the 
 largest fishes, pierce and devour them. 
 
 PETKOMYZON FLUVIATILIS.* THE RIVER LAMPREY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Second dorsal and caudal fins uniting ; body 
 dusky blue. 
 
 Description. From a specimen nine inches in length. Body near- 
 ly of equal size for two-thirds of its length, gradually tapering to the 
 end of the tail ; head indistinct ; mouth oval, when expanded it be- 
 comes circular ; lip fleshy, minutely fringed at the inner margin, 
 armed on the inside with a number of yellowish, conical, tooth-like, 
 projections ; on the under surface is a semicircular bone with seven 
 long, slender, sharp-pointed teeth directed downwards and forwards ; 
 on the roof of the mouth are two triangular bony projections set a 
 little apart from each other, pointing downwards and inwards ; tongue 
 rough ; eyes moderate ; branchial openings seven on each side of the 
 neck, arranged in an oblique line from the lower part of the eye back- 
 
 * Petromyzonfluviatilisi Auctorum. 
 
THE RIVER LAMPREY. 445 
 
 wards ; between and a little in front of the eyes, is a small aperture 
 through which the water escapes. Dorsal fins two, distinctly sepa- 
 rate, somewhat of a triangular form, the first considerably smaller 
 than the second, and situated about mid-way between the tip of the tail 
 and the third branchial opening ; the height about one-sixth the length 
 of the base. Second dorsal commencing at a short distance from the 
 termination of the first, beginning at first low and attaining its great- 
 est height rather suddenly, from thence gradually sloping off and 
 uniting with the caudal : pectorals and ventrals wanting ; caudal cut 
 obliquely above and below, terminating in a point ; skin perfectly 
 smooth. Colour above of a dusky blue, beneath silvery white. 
 
 This species of Lamprey is met with in much greater 
 numbers in some of the rivers in England, such as the 
 Thames, the Severn, and Dee, than in any of the rivers 
 either in Ireland or Scotland. It was formerly a fish of con- 
 siderable importance. " It was taken in great quantities in the 
 Thames from Battersea Reach to Taplow Mills, and was sold 
 to the Dutch as bait for the turbot, cod, and other fisheries. 
 Four hundred thousand have been sold in one season for 
 this purpose, at the rate of forty shillings per thousand. 
 From five pounds to eight pounds the thousand have been 
 given ; but a comparative scarcity of late years, and conse- 
 quent increase in price, has obliged the line fishermen to 
 adopt other substances for bait. Formerly the Thames 
 alone supplied from one million to twelve thousand Lam- 
 perns annually. 11 * These fish are frequently observed in 
 some of the larger rivers entering the Firth of Forth, and 
 specimens are occasionally seen in the Firth itself; but as 
 the fishermen place no value on them either as bait or for 
 food, they remain totally disregarded. Some authors sup- 
 pose, that the River Lamprey is a migratory species, as- 
 cending the rivers in spring and returning again to the sea 
 after spawning ; but Mr Yarrell is induced to believe that 
 
 * Yarrell's British Fishes. 
 
440 FISHES OF THE FlRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 it generally remains all the year in the fresh water, as spe- 
 cimens can be obtained in the Thames all the year through. 
 It has been conjectured by some, that this species, as well 
 as the last described, had both sexes united in the same in- 
 dividual, but this is now satisfactorily proved not to be 
 the case. They spawn in the month of May, and are in the 
 best condition for the table from October to March. 
 
 PETROMYZON PLANERI.* PLANER'S LAMPREY. 
 
 Specific Characters. Dorsal fins contiguous, second dorsal uniting 
 with the caudal. 
 
 Description. From a specimen five inches in length. In form it 
 very much resembles the Lampern, but rather thicker in proportion 
 to its length ; head bending slightly, falling obliquely from the sum- 
 mit ; mouth of an oval form, circular when expanded ; placed at the 
 extremity ; lip thickly fringed, furnished on the inner surface with a 
 number of small, yellowish tooth-like projections with pointed sum- 
 mits ; a large semicircular tooth below with seven small sharp points 
 directed forwards ; on the roof of the mouth one tooth with two remote 
 points directed downwards. Eyes rather large of a rounded form, 
 situated about half-way between the tip of the snout and the fourth 
 branchial opening ; head indistinct, a small nasal orifice placed on 
 the summit a little in advance of the eyes. Branchial openings seven 
 on each side of the neck, arranged in a line commencing at a short 
 distance behind the lower portion of the eye, taking an oblique di- 
 rection backwards and slightly downwards. Colour of the back and 
 sides dusky blue ; belly of a dirty silvery- white ; fins light dusky 
 grey. First dorsal fin commencing mid-way between the tip of the 
 snout and the end of the tail, somewhat of a semicircular form, termi- 
 nating by uniting with the second dorsal ; its height about one-third 
 the length of its base. Second'dorsal about twice the size/>f the first 
 and similar in shape, but reaching its greatest height rather more 
 suddenly. Caudal contiguous with the termination of the second 
 dorsal j cut obliquely both above and below, and ending in an obtuse 
 point ; body marked throughout the whole length with a number of 
 fine lines passing from above downwards. Vent situated immediately 
 under the middle of the anterior half of the second dorsal, and fur- 
 nished with a prominent fleshy tubercle in front ; skin everywhere 
 smooth. 
 
 * Petromyzon planeri, Yarr., Jen., Cuv. Planer" 1 * Lamprey. Fringed- 
 lipped Lamprey. 
 
THE PRIDE. 447 
 
 This species of Lamprey closely resembles the Lampern 
 both in its appearance and habits, and from having a num- 
 ber of external openings placed along the sides of the 
 neck, has been improperly named the nine-eyed eel. It, 
 however, is readily distinguished from the lampern in the 
 two dorsal fins being contiguous, whereas in the lamperns 
 these fins are widely apart. Planer's Lamprey is occasion- 
 ally met with in the Forth, the Teith, and the Allan, be- 
 sides in several other rivers in Scotland. Mr Yarrell has 
 obtained it from a brook in Surrey, and he also received spe- 
 cimens from Lancashire which measured nearly eight inches 
 in length. It appears to be a common fish in the rivers of 
 Sweden, where it spawns in April and May. 
 
 GENUS AMMOCCETES. Seven branchial openings on 
 each side of the neck ; mouth without teeth ; upper lip 
 semicircular, covering only the upper part and sides of the 
 mouth. 
 
 AMMOCCETES BRANCHIALIS.* THE PRTDE. 
 
 Description. From a specimen rather more than two and a half 
 inches in length, and somewhat thicker than a common earth-worm 
 of equal length. The anterior part of the body,, as far as the first 
 dorsal fin nearly of equal diameter, from thence gradually tapering 
 to the end of the tail where it terminates in a sharp point. Eyes 
 small, scarcely apparent ; branchial openings seven on each side of 
 the neck, arranged in a row running backwards and slightly down- 
 wards ; orifice of the mouth somewhat of a square form ; upper lip 
 thin and membranous, terminating on each side in a free truncated 
 lobe ; under lip transverse ; " mouth without teeth, but furnished 
 with numerous short membranous cirri." Dorsal fins two, not very 
 apparent, the first taking its origin, half-way between the tip of the 
 tail and the end of the snout, and terminating a little in front of the 
 second dorsal ; the length of its base six or seven times greater than 
 
 * Ammocceles branchialis,Ci\\., Yarr., Jen., Flem. Petromyzon bran- 
 chialis, Linn., Penn. Pride, Sand-Pride, Sand-prey, Mud-Lamprey. 
 
448 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 its height; second dorsal rather longer and more elevated anteriorly,, 
 sloping gradually to be continuous with the caudal ; vent placed a 
 little behind the commencement of the second dorsal ; skin smooth, 
 marked with a number of fine lines placed at equal distances, which 
 encircle the body throughout its whole length. 
 
 The Pride was first discovered by Dr Plot in the Isis, 
 and was formerly considered to be peculiar to the rivers 
 near Oxford, where it is said to be of frequent occurrence. 
 It is also found in many parts of England, and is a com- 
 mon species in some of the rivers of Scotland, particularly 
 in the Forth and Tweed ; but its habit of concealing itself 
 in soft mud from which it seldom emerges, seems the prin- 
 cipal cause of its not being more frequently met with. It 
 spawns about the beginning of May, and is said to feed 
 upon worms, insects, and dead animal matter. 
 
 As these sheets were passing through the press, the author, 
 at the request of the Society, has included his most recent 
 discoveries, so as to make the list of fishes found in the 
 Firth of Forth complete, up to the present period. The 
 number of species enumerated amounts to one hundred 
 and twenty-five, about forty of which have been added by 
 himself from personal observation, and six of these had not 
 previously been recorded as British.* One hundred and 
 sixty preserved specimens were exhibited as illustrative of 
 the essay, and some of the rarer species have since been 
 presented to the Society's Museum. 
 
 * The author has lately discovered four other fishes new to Britain, 
 which are not included in Mr Yarrell's work on the British Fishes, viz. 
 Gobius dibits^ Trans. Roy. Soc. Edin. 1837. Trigla lucema, and Monochi- 
 rus minutus, Zool. Bot. Mag. vol. i. Coregonus microcephalies, Ann. Nat. 
 Hist. No. iii. 
 
THE FOUR-BEARDED ROCKLING. 449 
 
 The following new British fish was obtained after the 
 preceding sheets had passed through the press ; it holds a 
 rank in the genus Motella. See page 353. 
 
 MoTELLA CIMBRIA.* THE FoUR-BEARDED RoCKLING. 
 
 Specific Characters. Snout with three barbules, and one on the 
 chin. (Plate XLIV.) 
 
 Description. From a specimen fourteen inches in length. Form 
 closely resembling that of the Five-bearded Rockling, but the length 
 of the head somewhat greater compared to that of the body. Body 
 elongated, rounded in front compressed behind, tapering from the 
 vent to the caudal extremity ; greatest depth less than the length of 
 the head. Head one-sixth of the entire length, caudal fin included, 
 slightly depressed ; snout blunt, projecting considerably beyond the 
 under jaw ; eye large, of an oval form, placed high up, and about 
 its own length from the point of the snout ; operculum rounded, 
 oblique ; gill-opening large ; gape wide ; maxillary extending in a 
 line with the posterior margin of the orbit ; teeth sharp and fine, si- 
 tuated in two rows in the under jaw, and in five rows in the upper ; 
 a few are also placed in a cluster on the anterior part of the vomer ; 
 barbules four, one a little in front of each nostril, one at the extremity 
 of the upper lip, and one on the chin ; tongue fleshy, smooth, and 
 without teeth. Fins, First dorsal obsolete, scarcely discernible, 
 commencing over the operculum, and terminating a little in front of 
 the second dorsal, composed of a number of short, fine, capillary 
 rays, of which the first is the largest, presenting an appearance, ac- 
 cording to Linnseus, of the letter T, but this latter character I was 
 unable to recognise in the present example, owing to that ray having 
 been somewhat destroyed previously to the fish coming into my pos- 
 session ; second dorsal taking its origin in a line over the ends of the 
 pectorals, and terminating a little in advance of the caudal, the an- 
 terior portion nearly of equal height, the rays in the posterior half, 
 more sensibly increasing in length to the last but four, from thence 
 rapidly diminishing, the first ray simple, the rest branched; anal, 
 commencing in a line under the twelfth ray of the second dorsal, and 
 ending under the last ray but three of the same fin, in form similar 
 to the second dorsal, but the rays scarcely more than one-half the 
 length, the first ray simple, the rest branched ; caudal rounded at the 
 extremity, the length of the middle rays equalling the space between 
 the first and twelfth rays of the anal, the lateral rays simple ; veu- 
 trals jugular, the second rays the longest, about two-thirds the length 
 of the pectorals j pectorals rounded at the extremities, equalling the 
 
 * Gadus cimbrius, Linnaeus. 
 VOL. VII. F f 
 
450 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 length of the caudal, the first rays stout and simple, the rest branched. 
 The fin rays in number are 
 IstD. 50; 2dD.50; P. 16; V. 5; A. 43; C. 20; Vert. 52. 
 
 Scales small, smooth and adherent, covering the head, body, and 
 membranes of the dorsal, caudal and anal fins ; lateral line distinct, 
 formed by a number of oval depressions placed at intervals from each 
 other, commencing over the operculum, taking a bend under the 
 ninth, tenth, and eleventh rays of the second dorsal fin, from thence 
 running straight to the middle ray of the caudal. Colours. Back 
 and sides of a greyish-brown, belly dirty white ; second dorsal fin 
 edged with white, which is more apparent towards the caudal end ; 
 upper half of the caudal tipped with white ; pectorals, caudal, and 
 lower part of the dorsal dark brown, approaching to black ; anal and 
 ventrals dusky. 
 
 Two well known species of Motella are frequently met 
 with on our coasts, the Motella quinquecirrata, and the Mo- 
 tella vulgariS) but I am not aware of the Motella cimbria 
 (Gadus cimbrms of Linnaeus), having previously been no- 
 ticed as a British fish. It was found in June last, a little 
 to the east of Inchkeith, on a haddock line baited with 
 muscles, and sent me by the fishermen of Newhaven, as 
 being the only fish of the kind they had ever met with. 
 From its general appearance, they at once recognised it to 
 be closely allied to the Five-bearded Rockling( Motella quin- 
 quecirrata), a common species throughout the coast ; but, 
 on comparison, the differences between them were obvious, 
 and although the two fishes do disagree in some particulars, 
 yet it is difficult to point out accurately and satisfactorily 
 to those who are not in the habit of handling them, what 
 these particulars are. Some authors, placing no depen- 
 dence, as a character, on the number of barbules on the 
 snout, and consider the Five-bearded Rock ling and theThree- 
 bearded Rockling as mere varieties ; but this is riot admit- 
 ted either by Mr Yarrell or by Mr Jenyns, who very just- 
 ly consider them as deserving of a place as distinct spe- 
 cies in their valuable works on British Ichthyology. The 
 Four- bearded Rockling, according to Linnaeus, occurs in the 
 
THE FOUR-BEARDED ROCKLING. 451 
 
 Atlantic and Norway seas, and is distinguished by the first 
 ray of the anterior dorsal fin presenting the form of the 
 letter T. On dissecting the specimen, I found the sto- 
 mach filled with shrimps and small crabs. The caeca! 
 appendages were few in number; the roe was large, the 
 ova small and numerous, and apparently in a fit state to 
 be deposited. It is probable that the habits of this fish 
 are similar to those of the other species, but from its rarity 
 it is difficult to determine. 
 
 The Motella dmbria differs from the Motella qumquecir- 
 rata in the following respects ; In the snout having but 
 three barbules ; the head one-sixth of the whole length ; 
 the teeth sharp and slender, placed in two rows in the un- 
 der jaw; the eye large, of an oval form ; the snout much 
 produced; the gape wide; from the point of the snout to 
 the posterior extremity of the maxillary, from thence to the 
 origin of the pectoral, equal ; the lateral line very distinct ; 
 the tips of the upper half of the caudal rays white ; the 
 second ray of the ventral fin but slightly produced ; the 
 rays in the anterior half of the second dorsal, nearly double 
 the length of those of the anal : whereas in the J/. quin- 
 quecirrata the snout is furnished with four barbules ; the 
 head one-sixth the length as far as the base of the caudal 
 fin ; the teeth blunt and stout, placed in three rows in the 
 under jaw ; the eye small, nearly circular ; the snout but 
 slightly produced; the gape rather small; from the point 
 of the snout to the posterior extremity of the maxillary, 
 from thence to the origin of the ventral, equal ; the lateral 
 line very indistinct ; the caudal fin of a uniform brown ; 
 the second ray of the ventral fin much produced ; the rays 
 in the anterior half of the second dorsal about equal the 
 lengths of those of the anal. 
 
 The form and arrangement of the teeth in this species are 
 very striking. 
 
 Ff 2 
 
452 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 In the Magazine of Natural History, for January 1838, 
 No. xiii, is the following notice of the Argentine (Scapelus 
 Humboldtii) in the Firth of Forth, by Dr W. B. Clarke, 
 of Ipswich. 
 
 " I discovered this highly elegant little fish, whilst look- 
 ing amongst the various bodies cast up by the water at 
 Portobello, and observed it lying entangled in some sea- 
 weed which had been accumulated in masses, and left by 
 the retiring tide. The fish was dead, but from its fresh- 
 ness could not long have been so. 
 
 u In the Animal Kingdom of Cuvier, translated by Grif- 
 fith, we have the following description of the genus. 
 
 6 SCOPELUS, Cuv SERPES of Risso. 
 
 1 Mouth and gills extremely cleft ; the two jaws furnished with 
 very small teeth ; the edge of the upper entirely formed by the in- 
 termaxillaries ; the tongue and palate smooth. Their muzzle is very 
 short and obtuse ; there are nine or ten rays to the gills ; and be- 
 sides the usual dorsal, which corresponds to the interval of the ven- 
 trals and the anal, there is another very small one behind in which 
 the vestiges of rays are perceptible/ 
 
 " These fishes are caught in the Mediterranean inter- 
 mingled with the anchovies, and they are there called Me- 
 lettes, as are other small fishes. One of them, the Serpes 
 Humboldtii, Risso pi. x. fig. 38, is remarkable for the bril- 
 liancy of the silvery points which are distributed along the 
 body and tail. 
 
 " Mr Yarrell in his valuable work upon the British Fishes 
 states, ' Pennant and the Rev. Mr Low of Orkney, appear 
 to be the only British observers who have met with, on 
 our shores, examples of this brilliant little fish, which Cu- 
 vier considers as belonging to the genus Scopelus." 1 Pen- 
 nant's specimen was taken in the sea, near Downing in 
 Flintshire ; Mr Low's fish was brought to him by a boy, 
 who said he found it by the edge of the water amongst 
 
THE ARGENTINE. 453 
 
 sea-weed. The receipt of an additional portion of MS. re- 
 cently confided to me by William Wolcott, Esq., furnishes 
 a notice written by his father, of a third instance of the oc- 
 currence of the Argentine, which was found stranded on 
 the shore near Exmouth. Pennant's description agrees in 
 many respects with my fish ; the figure contained in Mr 
 YarrelFs work, which was taken from Pennant's, differs very 
 materially about the head and the tail, although it resembles 
 it in the form of the body. If PennscnCsjigure be an exact 
 representation, the fish it was taken from was certainly a 
 different species from the one under description. Pennant de- 
 scribes his as follows, viz. ( Length two inches and a quar- 
 ter ; the eyes large ; irides silvery ; the lower jaw sloped 
 much ; the teeth small ; body compressed and of an equal 
 depth, almost to the anal fin ; tail forked ; back was of a 
 dusky green ; the sides and covers of the gills as if plaited 
 with silver ; the lateral line was in the middle and quite 
 straight ; on each side of the belly was a row of circular 
 punctures, above them another which ceased near the vent.' 
 " My specimen would correspond with the above, except 
 the following ; viz. Length one inch and fifteen-sixteenths ; 
 the back of a dense blue-black, presenting in certain lights 
 a brownish tinge ; lateral line central and straight, but in- 
 clining upwards, at about its anterior sixth towards the 
 upper angle of the operculum. 
 
 " The number and arrangement of the guttce, in the 
 specimen under consideration, are as follows ; viz. On each 
 side, upper series between os hyoides and origin of pectoral 
 fin, five; upper abdominal series between base of pectoral 
 and a spot perpendicularly over the ventral, nine ; lower 
 abdominal series, from a spot perpendicularly beneath the 
 posterior margin of orbit to base of ventral, twelve ; be- 
 tween base of ventral and commencement of anal, six ; the 
 two anterior directed downwards and backwards ; thejbur 
 posterior forming an arch from a little above the second 
 
454 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 gutta to the commencement of the anal fin ; one large gutta 
 in a line with the upper abdominal series is placed slightly 
 anterior, but above the commencement of anal fin ; between 
 the anterior commencement of anal and base of caudal 
 twenty-four, but between the eighth and ninth from the 
 caudal fin there is a space where a spot appears to have 
 been obliterated. About midway between the anterior 
 commencement of the dorsal and base of caudal, but rather 
 nearer the latter, there is a slight elevation where appa- 
 rently the fleshy fin has its origin ; but in the specimen 
 under description it is scarcely perceptible, being, even with 
 the aid of a lens, only like a slight membranous ridge. 
 
 " The formula of the fin rays appears to be, D. 9; P. 17 ; 
 V.8; A. 20; C. 18. 
 
 " Mr Yarrell's formula is, D. 9 ; P. 17 ; V. 8 ; A. 15 ; 
 C. 19. 
 
 " Mr Yarrell remarks, ' the figure of this fish referred 
 to in Risso's work, represents the anal fin as containing 
 many more rays than are represented in the figure of Pen- 
 nant/ The fish obtained by me possesses more rays than 
 Pennant's would appear to have had, judging from the fi- 
 gure which he has published. 
 
 " Length of head compared with whole length of 
 fish as one to four ; diameter of eye to length of head as 
 one to three ; first dorsal fin commences midway between 
 end of nose and tail ; depth of body to whole length of fish, 
 as one to five and a half ; nostrils double, situated in a de- 
 pression midway between the eye and centre of intermaxil- 
 lary bone. The operculum is extremely large, and appears 
 to be developed at the expense of the free operculum, which 
 is very small, and joins the former by a straight moveable 
 suture running in a line perpendicularly downwards from 
 posterior margin of the orbit ; it forms an obtuse angle tri- 
 angle with the obtuse angle pointing downwards and back- 
 
THE ARGENTINE. 455 
 
 wards ; the sub-orbital bone occupies the anterior inferior 
 half of the orbit, and is of a beautiful argenteous lustre, 
 like the operculum. There are five oval spots forming a 
 fan- shaped figure, occupying the space between the anterior 
 ridge of the superior maxillary bone, and the anterior infe- 
 rior angle of the preoperculum beneath the suborbital bone, 
 and distinctly seen through the transparent intermaxillary 
 bone which is very large. There is one gutta upon the 
 preoperculum at its anterior inferior angle of the suboper- 
 culum ; there is no appearance of branchiostegous rays 
 whilst the opercula are closed. 
 
 " The sides of this elegant little fish are of the most re- 
 splendent argenteous lustre ; the guttae are of a dense 
 opaque white, and round their margin, especially along the 
 sub-caudal series, there is a steel-blue tinge, giving that part 
 of the body a very beautiful appearance. The upper ab- 
 dominal series have an arched appearance, from this tinge 
 not being continued round the inferior margin of the guttoe. 
 The back of the specimen under description, which has 
 been in spirit ever since its capture, is of a dense blue-black, 
 presenting, in certain lights, a brownish tinge. From spe- 
 cimens of this fish having been found in the above localities, 
 viz. in the sea near Flintshire, on the shore in Orkney, in 
 Devonshire, and, lastly, in Edinburghshire, we may infer 
 that it is generally, although sparingly, diffused through 
 the British seas. Probably ere long we may hear of other 
 examples of its occurrence upon our shores, or in our seas ; 
 for I am convinced that, from the admirable character of 
 Mr Yarrel's work, it will have the effect of exciting such 
 an interest in the inhabitants of the boundless deep, that 
 many interesting facts respecting the ichthyology of our 
 seas will soon be brought to light, which, but for such a 
 publication, would have remained unrecorded, perhaps un- 
 noticed." 
 
456 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 DR PARNELL'S ARRANGEMENT OF THE FISHES OF THE 
 FIRTH OF FORTH, which, by a simple analysis of charac- 
 ter, facilitates the Naming of the different Species: for ex- 
 ample, the Lamprey (Petromyzon) having seven branchial open- 
 ings on each side, is referred from Division 1. to Division 64, 
 under which number the reader finds it distinguished from Am- 
 mocoetes by the presence of teeth. 
 
 Division Page , 
 
 , One branchial opening on each side*. 2 
 
 1. < Five branchial openings on each sidef 56 
 
 ' Seven branchial openings on each side* 64 
 
 (Ventral fins wanting 3 
 
 ( Ventral fins present 9 
 
 (Dorsal and caudal fins contiguous 4 
 
 ( Dorsal and caudal fins separate: 6 
 
 f Body very much elongated, eel shaped. 5 
 
 ' I Body oval, truncated behind Orthagoriscus. 401 
 
 (Under jaw longest Anguitta. 384 
 
 1 Under jaw shortest Conger. 388 
 
 * The branchial or gill-opening is in general a large aperture situated on 
 each side of the neck, and covered by a thin osseous plate or gill-cover, 
 as in the Herring (Clupea), Trout (Salmo), &c. ; sometimes we find it re- 
 duced to a small orifice on each side of the nape, as in the Pipe-Fish 
 (Syngnathus), Dragonet (Callionymus), &c. ; occasionally it is an open- 
 ing above the base of the pectorals, as in the Sun-Fish (Orthagoriscus) ; 
 sometimes, as in the Eel (Anguilla), it is an opening of an oval form in 
 front of the lower part of the base of pectorals ; at other times again it is 
 in the form of a large opening concealed behind the pectorals, as in the 
 Angler (Lophius). 
 
 t These openings are either placed along each side of the neck, as in the 
 Sharif (Squalus), or on the under surface of the body as in the Skate (Raia). 
 
 t These are always in a longitudinal series on each aide of the neck, as 
 in the Lamprey (Petromyzon). 
 
ARRANGEMENT. 457 
 
 Division. Page. 
 
 ( Caudal fin forked 7 
 
 ' \ Caudal fin not forked 8 
 
 ( Under jaw longest Ammodytes. 399 
 
 ( Under jaw shortest Xiphias. 215 
 
 ( Teeth very strong and prominent Anarrhichas. 230 
 
 " 1 Teeth wanting , Syngnaihus. 394 
 
 I One dorsal fin 10 
 
 9 \ 
 
 \ More than one dorsal fin* 34 
 
 { Both eyes on the same side of the head... ,. 11 
 10 \ 
 
 ( One eye on each side of the head 14 
 
 ( Caudal fin rounded at the extremity 12 
 
 I Caudal fin crescent-shaped at the extremity.... Hippoglossus. 372 
 
 j Eyes on the right side of the head 13 
 
 ' ( Eyes on the left side of the head Rhombus. 373 
 
 ( Dorsal and caudal fins separate Platessa. 361 
 
 ( Dorsal fin. reaching quite to the caudal Solea. 378 
 
 ( Dorsal fin commencing before or over pectorals. 1 5 
 ' I Dorsal fin commencing remote from pectorals. 25 
 
 t Caudal fin forked 16 
 
 ' I Caudal fin not forked 18 
 
 J Teeth present 17 
 
 '(.Teeth wanting Lampris. 223 
 
 f Anterior part of the dorsal fin without scales . . . Pagellm. 203 
 ' I Anterior part of the dorsal covered with scales.. Brama. 209 
 
 18. 
 
 ( Chin with a long barbule Brosmius. 357 
 
 ( Chin without a barbule . 19 
 
 ( Anal and caudal fins not contiguous 20 
 
 ( Anal and caudal fins contiguous 24 
 
 * The first dorsal fin is sometimes very small and composed of fine rays 
 which make it liable to be overlooked, as in the Tadpole Fish (Raniceps), 
 Rockling (Motella), &c.; the first dorsal fin in the Angler (Lophius), is ra- 
 ther inconspicuous; the Dory (Zeus) has but one dorsal fin which is deeply 
 abbreviated in the middle, appearing at first sight as if two fins ; the Stickle 
 back (Gasterosteus), I have here considered as having but one dorsal fin ; 
 in the SalmonidcB the second dorsal, or adipose fin, is without rays and itu- 
 ated over the posterior part of the anal fin. 
 
458 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 
 
 Division. Page. 
 
 / Membranes of the anterior part of the dorsal fin 
 
 20. < terminating in loose filaments 21 
 
 * Membranes of the dorsal fin entire 23 
 
 i Preoperculum entire 22 
 
 ' ( Preoperculum denticulated CrenUabrus. 259 
 
 ( Base of the dorsal fin without spines Labrus. 256 
 
 ' ( Base of the dorsal with a series of forked spines. Zeus. 220 
 
 23. j 
 
 j Teeth in one row only in each jaw Blennius. 233 
 
 \ Teeth in two rows in front of each jaw Murcenoides. 235 
 
 ( Ventrals united in the form of aconcave disk... Liparis. 383 
 
 ' I Ventrals separate Zoarces. 237 
 
 c Dorsal fin situated over the anal fin 26 
 
 f\ K J 
 
 ' ( Dorsal situated over the ventrals or nearly so.. 31 
 
 ( Mouth placed underneath, without teeth Acipenser. 403 
 
 * I Mouth placed at the extremity, with teeth 27 
 
 t Three or more spines in front of the dorsal fin. Gasterosteus. 190 
 ' t No spines in front of the dorsal fin 28 
 
 j Caudal fin forked 29 
 
 ' 1 Caudal fin not forked Cyclopterus. 380 
 
 i Dorsal fin with finlets Scomberesox. 276 
 
 ' ( Dorsal fin without finlets 30 
 
 ( Length of dorsal fin exceeding twice its height. Belone. 274 
 
 ' ( Length of the dorsal about equalling its height. Esox. 272 
 
 f Snout with barbules Cobitis. 270 
 
 ( Snout without barbules 32 
 
 ( Tongue rough with minute teeth Clupea,. 315 
 
 ( Tongue smooth without teeth 33 
 
 f Central line of the belly very rough, strongly 
 
 33. < serrated Alosa. 329 
 
 * Central line of the belly smooth Leuciscus. * Jft 
 
 ( Two dorsal fins 35 
 
 ' 1 Three dorsal fins 55 
 
ARRANGEMENT. 459 
 
 Division. Pagt 
 
 I Second dorsal fin adipose, without rays 36 
 
 Ot). \ 
 
 ( Second dorsal fin not adipose, with rays 37 
 
 (Anal fin with fewer rays than the first dorsal.... Salmo. 278 
 
 I Anal fin with more rays than the first dorsal. . . . Osmerus. 312 
 
 j Caudal fin forked 38 
 
 t Caudal fin not forked 45 
 
 i Dorsal fins wide apart 39 
 
 ! Dorsal fins approximate 41 
 
 (Second dorsal fin without finlets 40 
 
 oq } 
 
 ( Second dorsal fin with five finlets Scomber. 210 
 
 ( First dorsal fin with eight rays Atherina. 230 
 
 ' I First dorsal fin with four rays Mugil. 225 
 
 ( Second dorsal fin with eight finlets Thynnus. 213 
 
 41 * 1 Second dorsal fin without finlets 42 
 
 42. 
 
 t Tongue smooth, without teeth 43 
 
 1 Tongue rough, with teeth Labrax. 170 
 
 ( Three detached rays at base of each pectoral. Trlgla. 174 
 
 43 ' \ No detached rays at the base of the pectorals. 44 
 
 ( Anal fin with twenty-seven rays Caranx. 2 1 7 
 
 44 ' (Anal fin with ten rays...... Perca. 168 
 
 | Ventral fins united together Gobius. 240 
 
 ( Ventral fins separate 46 
 
 ( Ventral fins situated before the pectorals 49 
 
 ' ( Ventral fins situated behind the pectorals 47 
 
 < Vomer without teeth 48 
 
 t Vomer with teeth in front Cottus. 183 
 
 ( Body with large scales, snout without spines . . . Scicena. 200 
 
 i Body with osseous plates, snout with spines... Aspidophorus. 188 
 
 ( A large opening behind each pectoral fin Lophius. 253 
 
 ( No opening behind the pectorals 50 
 
 { Chin with a barbule 51 
 
 6 * } Chin without a barbule 53 
 
460 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH 
 
 Division. p 
 
 j From two to four barbules on the nose Motella. 354 
 
 ' / Nose without barbules 52 
 
 ^^ j First dorsal fin with three rays Raniceps. 359 
 
 ( First dorsal fin with fifteen rays Lota. 352 
 
 ( Ventrals smaller than the pectorals 54 
 
 ' ( Ventrals larger than the pectorals Callionymus. 248 
 
 ( First dorsal fin with five rays. Trachinus. 172 
 
 ( First dorsal fin with nine rays Merlucius. 350 
 
 t Chin with a barbule Morrhua. 333 
 
 ( Chin without a barbule Merlangus. 342 
 
 i Branchial openings on the under surface 63 
 
 ( Branchial openings on the sides of the neck... 57 
 
 ( Anal fin wanting 58 
 
 I Anal fin present 59 
 
 j A sharp spine in front of each dorsal fin Spinax. 420 
 
 ' ( Dorsal fins without spines Squatina. 421 
 
 J Temporal orifices wanting Lamna. 413 
 
 1 Temporal orifices present. 
 
 c First dorsal fin situated behind theventrals.... Scyllium. 407 
 ' \ First dorsal fin situated before the ventrals.... 61 
 
 ( Teeth very blunt Mustelus. 416 
 
 ' 1 Teeth very sharp 62 
 
 ( Teeth denticulated on the outer side only Golem. 414 
 
 62 < 
 
 \ Teeth entire, not denticulated Selachus. 418 
 
 Tail with fins Raia. 424 
 
 without fins Trygon. 440 
 
 5 lau wi 
 oo. < 
 
 ( Tail wi 
 
 ( Teeth present Petromyzon. 442 
 
 ( Teeth wanting Ammoccetes. 447 
 
INDEX TO DR PARNELL^S PAPER. 
 
 515 
 
 INDEX TO DR PARNELL'S PAPER ON THE FISHES OF THE 
 FORTH DISTRICT. 
 
 Note. Those terms which are printed in italics, express the Scientific 
 and approved names, Latin and English ; whilst those in the Roman 
 characters include the more obsolete scientific, and the vulgar or 
 trivial names, in both languages. 
 
 Acanthopterygii Order, 
 Acipenser latirostris, . 
 
 . 167 
 . 405 
 . 403 
 . 198 
 . 172 
 . 330 
 . 329 
 . 447 
 . 391 
 390-1 
 . 239 
 . 421 
 . 253 
 . 384 
 . 387 
 . 388 
 . 384 
 . 341 
 . 352 
 . 188 
 . 230 
 . 230 
 . 230 
 
 . 268 
 
 Bonito, the, .... 
 Brama Kan, .... 
 Brandling, the, 
 Brassy, the, .... 
 Bream, Ray's, .... 
 the Spanish^ . 
 
 213 
 209 
 300 
 340 
 206 
 203 
 204 
 206 
 375 
 375 
 357 
 188 
 183 
 
 188 
 235 
 
 250 
 248 
 219 
 403 
 239 
 239 
 188 
 248 
 308 
 308 
 315 
 325 
 315 
 320 
 322 
 330 
 345 
 270 
 333 
 349 
 335 
 388 
 388 
 259 
 262 
 
 Adder, great sea, . 
 
 JJJ.1U, . 
 
 ^Llosa communis 9 
 
 Ammoccetes branchialis, 
 Ammodytes lancea, 
 
 
 Brett, the, 
 Brill, the, 
 Brosmius vulgaris, 
 Bull-head, the armed, . 
 Bull-head, the sea, in Scotland, 
 shell-backed, in Scot- 
 land, . 
 Butter-fish, .... 
 
 Callionymus dracunculus, 
 *lyra, .... 
 Caranx trachurus, 
 Cartilaginous fishes, Class of, 
 Cat-fish, 
 Cat, the sea, .... 
 Cataphractus schoneveldii, 
 Chanticleer, the, .*-.' 
 Charr, the Northern, . 
 Charr, the Alpine, . 
 Clupeldce, Family of, . 
 Clupea alba, .... 
 
 Anarrhicas lupus, . 
 Angel-fishy 
 Angler, the, . . 
 Anguilla acutirostris, 
 
 Anguilla conger, 
 
 Asellus barbatus, 
 
 Aspidophonts Europeans, . 
 Atherina presbyter, 
 Atherina hepsetus, . 
 Atherine, the, . 
 
 Ban stickle, 
 
 . 193 
 . 190 
 . 359 
 . 237 
 . 170 
 . 359 
 . 270 
 . 274 
 . 340 
 . 198 
 . 172 
 . 233 
 . 235 
 . 237 
 . 233 
 . 237 
 . 420 
 
 Barbus, minor, 
 Bards, the, 
 Bass, tie, 
 Batrachoides trifurcatus, 
 Beardie, the, . 
 Belone mlgaris, 
 Bib, the, . . 
 Bismore, the, 
 Black-fin, the, 
 Blennius pholis, 
 Bleunius gunnellus, 
 
 pilchardus, 
 
 Clupea alosa, . . . 329, 
 Coal-fish, the, .... 
 Colitis barbatula, 
 Cod, the common, 
 the green, .... 
 Cod, the rock or red, 
 Conger-eel, the, .... 
 Conger vulgaris, 
 Conner, the, .... 
 Cork-wing, the, 
 
 Blenny, the smooth, 
 the vimpo/rm, 
 Bone-dog, the, 
 
516 
 
 PARTICULAR INDEX 
 
 Cottusbubalis, .... 
 
 185 
 
 Flounder, the mud, 
 
 . 363 
 
 . teorpitu, .... 
 
 Cottus cataphractus, 
 
 183 
 188 
 
 salt-water, 
 Fluke, the, 
 
 . 365 
 361, 362 
 
 long spined, 
 the short-spined, 
 Crenilabrus Cornubicus, 
 
 185 
 183 
 262 
 
 the bannock, 
 the black, . 
 
 . 373 
 . 376 
 . 373 
 
 1 the bonnet, . 
 
 Crenilabrus rupestris, 
 
 264 
 
 the craig, 
 the fresh- water, 
 
 J.T, 1 
 
 . 370 
 . 363 
 
 Crooner, the red, 
 
 174 
 i no 
 
 the long, 
 the rawn, 
 
 . 368 
 . 373 
 
 Cuckoo, gurnard, 
 
 Cyclopterus lutnpus, . 
 
 178 
 
 174 
 380 
 
 salt- water, . 
 Fox, the, 
 
 . 365 
 . 250 
 
 Cyclopterus liparis, 
 Cyprinidce, Family of the, . 
 Cyprinus phoxinus, 
 
 383 
 266 
 268 
 
 Gadidce, Family of, . 
 Gadus, the genus, 
 Gadus barbatus, 
 
 . 333 
 . 333 
 . 341 
 
 rutilus, 
 
 266 
 
 brosme, 
 
 . 357 
 
 Dab, the long rough, . 
 ' the pole, . 
 
 368 
 370 
 
 carbonarius, 
 cimbrius, 
 luscus, . 
 
 . 345 
 . 449 
 . 340 
 
 Dab, the common or (flounder), 
 
 365 
 
 1RR 
 
 merlangus, . 
 merlucius, . 
 
 . 342 
 . 350 
 
 the town, ... 
 
 OOO 
 
 366 
 
 morrhua, !. 
 
 . 352 
 . 333 
 
 the lemon, . . . 366 
 Devil-fish, the, . . .253 
 Devil, the sea, .... 253 
 Discoboli, Family of, . . . 380 
 Dog-fish, large spotted, . .416 
 small spotted, . 407, 409 
 
 mustela, 
 pollachius, . 
 
 354, 355 
 . 347 
 . 354 
 . 349 
 . 414 
 . 274 
 
 tiicirratus, 
 
 " virens, 
 Galeus vulgaris, 
 Gar-fish, the, 
 
 piked, . 
 
 r\ n I ,-. ' 
 
 420 
 
 Gasterosteus leiurus, . 
 
 . 190 
 
 Dog-nsh, the, \ 
 the rock, 
 Dog- Miller's, .... 
 
 420 
 410 
 414 
 
 -411 
 
 pungitius, . .... 
 semiarmatus, . V . 
 spinachia, 
 
 . 197 
 . 192 
 . 198 
 
 ray-mouthed, . 
 
 414 
 
 416 
 
 spinulosuSf 
 trachurus, 
 
 . 196 
 193 
 
 Dory, the, .... 
 Dragonet, iht gemmeous, 
 
 220 
 248 
 
 Gasterosteus aculeatus, 
 Gedd, the, 
 
 190, 193 
 . 272 
 
 the sordid, 
 
 250 
 
 Gilt-head, the, 
 
 269 
 
 Duckins, the, .... 
 
 198 
 
 lunated, 
 
 . 206 
 
 Eel, the broad-nosed, 
 the sharp-nosed, 
 Eel-pout, .... 
 
 Esocidce, Family of, . 
 
 389 
 384 
 237 
 272 
 
 red, . . . 
 toothed, . .,<? 
 Gobiadce, Family of, . 
 Gobius albus, 
 bipunctatus, . 
 
 . 206 
 . 209 
 . 232 
 248, 448 
 246 
 
 Esox lucius, 
 Esox belone, . 
 
 272 
 274 
 
 " gracilis, 
 minutus, 
 
 . 245 
 . 242 
 
 sauris, 
 
 276 
 
 niger, . 
 
 . 240 
 
 Father-lasher, 
 
 185 
 
 unipunctatus, 
 Goby-black, the, . 
 
 . 243 
 240 
 
 Fiddle-fish, the, 
 Fingerling, the, 
 Fire-flaire, the, 
 Fishing-frog, the, . 
 Flapper-rough, the, 
 
 421 
 300 
 440 
 253 
 433 
 
 -freckled, 
 double spotted, 
 - one spotted, . 
 slender, 
 Goby, the spotted, . 
 
 . 242 
 . 246 
 . 243 
 . 45 
 . 242 
 
TO DR PARNELL'S PAPER. 
 
 517 
 
 Gofnick, the, . 
 Golden maid, the 
 Gold-sinny, the, 
 
 Gorebill, the, . 
 Goudie, the, 
 Gowdriook, the, 
 Gravelling, the, 
 Greenbone, the, 
 Grey lord, the, 
 Grilse, salmon, 
 Guffer, the, 
 Gunnel, the spotted, 
 Gunnellus vulgaris, 
 Gurnard Bloch's, ('. ?) 
 
 the grey, 
 
 the red, 
 
 \irine. 
 
 Haddock, the, 
 Hake, the, 
 Halibut, the, 
 Heppers, the . 
 Herling, the, 
 Herring, the, 
 Herring, garvey, 
 
 gipsey, 
 
 Hippoglossus vulgaris, 
 Home, the, 
 Hommelin, the, 
 Hound, the smooth, 
 
 Jack, the, 
 John Dory, the, 
 
 King-fish, the 
 Kingston, the 
 Kite, the 
 
 Labrax lupus, 
 Labridce, Family of 
 Labrus corneus, 
 
 ' maculatuSj 
 
 Labrus tincta, 
 
 trimaculatus, 
 
 cornubicus, 
 
 Lammasmens, 
 Lamna cormibica, 
 Lampris gutatus, 
 Lampris luna, 
 Lamprey Planer's, 
 the river, 
 
 Lamprey, fringed-lip, 
 the mud, 
 
 . 276 
 
 Leuciscus phoxinus, 
 
 . 259 
 
 
 
 . 262 
 
 Ling-fish, the 
 
 . 264 
 
 Liparis vulgaris, 
 
 . 274 
 
 Loach, the 
 
 . 248 
 
 Loche, the sea, 
 
 . 276 
 
 Long- nose, the 
 
 . 300 
 
 Lophiadce, Family of 
 
 237, 274 
 
 Lophius piscatorius, 
 
 . 345 
 
 Loricati, Family of ' . 
 
 . 283 
 
 Lotamolva, 
 
 . 237 
 
 Luce, the 
 
 . 235 
 
 Lucky-proach, in Scotland, 
 
 . 235 
 
 Lump-sucker, the 
 
 . 181 
 
 Lutjanus Geoffroy, 
 
 . 178 
 
 rupestris, 
 
 . 174 
 
 Lyre, the 
 
 . 176 
 
 Lythe, the 
 
 . 337 
 
 Mackerel, the 
 
 . 350 
 
 Mackerel, horse, the 
 
 . 372 
 
 Mackerell-guide, the 
 
 294, 300 
 
 Maigre, the 
 
 295, 297 
 
 Malacopterygii, Order . 
 
 . 315 
 
 Maruna Eel, . 
 
 . 322 
 
 Merlangus carbonarius, 
 
 QOA 
 
 *T,^77^,7 * 
 
 o^u 
 . 372 
 
 
 
 . 434 
 
 vulgaris, 
 
 . 434 
 
 . 416 
 
 Merlucius vulgaris, 
 Minnow, the 
 
 
 Mirring, the 
 
 . 272 
 
 Molva vulgaris, 
 
 . 220 
 
 Monk-fish, the 
 
 
 Morgay-fish, the 
 
 . 223 
 
 Morrhua ^Eglefinua, 
 
 . 421 
 
 
 
 . 375 
 
 vulgaris, 
 
 
 Morrhua barbata, . 
 
 . 170 
 
 Motella Cimbria, 
 
 . 256 
 
 quinque cirrata, 
 
 . 258 
 
 vulgaris. 
 
 . 256 
 
 Motella mustela, 
 
 256, 259 
 
 4.^" rt ' Mwrt J. rt 
 
 incirraia, . . 
 
 . 258 
 
 Mugil capito, 
 
 . 262 
 
 chelo, . 
 
 . 296 
 . 413 
 
 Mugil cephalus, 
 
 Mullet, grey, the 
 
 OOQ 
 
 */"',/, 7',, ^J *1 
 
 . ^Wf) 
 
 . 223 
 
 Muroena anguilla, 
 
 . 446 
 
 conger, 
 
 . 444 
 
 Murcenoides guttata, 
 
 . 442 
 
 Mustelus Icevis, 
 
 . 446 
 
 Mustela marina, 
 
 . 447 
 
 
 268 
 266 
 352 
 383 
 270 
 354 
 274 
 253 
 253 
 174 
 352 
 272 
 185 
 380 
 262 
 264 
 188 
 347 
 
 210 
 217 
 274 
 200 
 266 
 237 
 345 
 347 
 349 
 342 
 350 
 268 
 253 
 352 
 421 
 407 
 337 
 340 
 333 
 341 
 449 
 355 
 354 
 355 
 354 
 225 
 228 
 225 
 225 
 228 
 384 
 388 
 235 
 416 
 354 
 
518 
 
 PARTICULAR INDEX 
 
 Noble, the ... 
 
 . 188 
 
 Pleuronectes, 
 
 
 
 **! -ml-kiio 
 
 
 Opah, the 
 
 . 223 
 
 vulgaris, 
 
 Orthagoriscus mola, 
 
 . 401 
 
 Pluck, the 
 
 Omncrvs eperlanus, 
 
 . 312 
 
 Poacher, the sea 
 
 Otter-pike, the 
 
 . 172 
 
 Podley, the 
 
 Owl, the sea, . 
 
 . 380 
 
 Pogge, the 
 
 
 
 Pollack,the 
 
 Padle, the Cock, ' . 
 
 . 380 
 
 Pollack, the black, 
 
 tlir TTrn 
 
 . 380 
 
 4-Vk^-i. T.-I 11 " r* 
 
 
 
 Pagellns acarne, 
 
 . 204 
 
 Pole, the 
 
 centrodontus, 
 
 . 206 
 
 Polewig, the 
 
 erytkrinus,- 
 
 . 303 
 
 Porbeagle, the . 
 
 Parr, the '. 
 
 . 298 
 
 Pout, the 
 
 Parr, the ... 
 
 . 295 
 
 Pride, the 
 
 Pearl, the 
 
 . 375 
 
 
 Perca flu ciat ills, 
 
 . 168 
 
 Raia batis, . ' , 
 
 Perca labrax, 
 
 . 170 
 
 chagrinea, 
 
 Perch, the ... 
 
 . 168 
 
 da rat a, , : - 
 
 Perch, the sea 
 
 *. 170 
 
 intermedia, 
 
 P&tromyzon fluviatilis, 
 
 . 444 
 
 maculata, 
 
 marinus, 
 
 . 442 
 
 oxyrhynchus, 
 
 Planeri, 
 
 . 446 
 
 radiata, ., 
 
 Petromyzon branchialis, 
 
 . 447 
 
 Raia Cuvieri, 
 
 Pickerell, the . 
 
 . 272 
 
 pastinacea, 
 
 Pike, the 
 
 . 272 
 
 rubus, 
 
 Pike Saury, the 
 
 . 276 
 
 Ray, the Shagreen 
 
 Sea, the 
 
 . 274 
 
 the sharp-nosed, 
 
 Pilchard, the . 
 
 . 320 
 
 the spotted, 
 
 Pipe-fish, the aquoreal 
 
 . 398 
 
 the starry, 
 
 the deep-nosed, 
 
 . 396 
 
 the sting, 
 
 the great, 
 
 . 394 
 
 Ray, the Homelyn 
 
 Pipe-fish, the lesser, 
 
 . 396 
 
 . the sand 
 
 the short, 
 the snake, . 
 
 . 396 
 . 399 
 
 Raniceps trifurcatus, 
 Raniceps Jago, 
 
 Plaise, the . 
 
 . 361 
 
 Rhombus hirtus, 
 
 Planer's lamprey, 
 
 . 446 
 
 ~. s* *i nin 
 
 
 Platessa flessus, 
 
 . 363 
 
 rulgaris, 
 
 limanda, 
 
 . 365 
 
 Riggle, the . 
 
 limandoides, 
 
 . 368 
 
 Roach, the 
 
 ^W^MMMk^M&A^^h 
 
 . 366 
 
 Robin Huss, the 
 
 
 polq, 
 
 . 370 
 
 Rock-fish, the 
 
 
 . 361 
 
 Rockl i ng, the four-bearded, 
 
 
 Pleuronectidoz, Family of 
 Pleuronectes flessus, . 
 
 . 361 
 . 363 
 
 ji ve-bearded, 
 three-bearded, 
 
 hippoglossis, 
 
 372 
 
 
 hirtus, 
 
 . 376 
 
 Salmo ccecifer, .. 
 
 
 . 366 
 
 
 
 
 liinanda 
 
 QfJ5 
 
 ^ fario 
 
 limandoides, 
 
 . OO-I 
 
 . 368 
 
 solar, 
 
 maximus, 
 
 . 373 
 
 salmulus, 
 
 mi/.i^ nm-\l rlnC 
 
 . 366 
 
 trutta 
 
 
 
 platessa, 
 
 . 361 
 
 umbla, 
 
 pola, 
 
 . 370 
 
 Salmo albus, 
 
 punctatus, 
 
 . 376 
 
 alpinus, 
 
 . 375 
 
 . 372 
 
 . 188 
 
 . 188 
 
 . 346 
 
 . 188 
 
 . 347 
 
 . 345 
 
 . 345 
 
 . 370 
 
 . 242 
 
 . 413 
 
 . 340 
 
 . 447 
 
 . 424 
 
 . 431 
 
 . 436 
 
 . 429 
 
 . 434 
 
 . 427 
 
 . 439 
 
 . 438 
 
 . 440 
 
 . 434 
 
 . 431 
 
 . 427 
 
 . 434 
 
 . 439 
 
 . 440 
 
 . 434 
 
 . 434 
 
 . 359 
 
 . 359 
 
 . 376 
 
 . 373 
 
 . 375 
 
 . 391 
 
 . 266 
 
 . 407 
 
 . 240 
 
 . 449 
 
 . 355 
 
 . 354 
 
 . 306 
 
 . 288 
 
 . 304 
 
 . 278 
 
 . 298 
 
 . 293 
 
 308,311 
 
 295, 297 
 
 308 
 
TO DR PARNELL'S PAPER. 
 
 519 
 
 Salmo Levenensis, 
 
 . 306 
 
 Sparus llaii, 
 
 209 
 
 ^^ ,-VW.l f\ tl IT 
 
 . 312 
 
 Sparling, the 
 
 300 
 
 
 Salmon, the 
 
 . 278 
 
 Sperling, the 
 
 312 
 
 Trout the 293 
 
 291, 296 
 
 Spinaolna vul^ans 
 
 198 
 
 Salmon grilse, or peal, 
 Norway, the 
 
 . 283 
 . 288 
 
 Spinax aconthias, 
 Sprat, the .... 
 
 420 
 322 
 
 Samlet, the 
 
 300, 302 
 
 Squalidce, Family of, 
 
 407 
 
 Sand-eel, the 
 
 390, 391 
 
 Squallus acanthias, 
 
 420 
 
 Irt^iwpp tits* 
 
 391 
 
 C 3,11 i Gills. 
 
 407 
 
 Q-iM/yJi- +1)0 
 
 230, 313 
 
 
 ftU / 
 
 413 
 
 
 
 Sand-pray, 
 
 . 447 
 
 galeus, 
 
 414 
 
 pride, . 
 
 . 447 
 
 maximus, 
 
 418 
 
 ^nplrpv 
 
 . 368 
 
 mustelus, 
 
 416 
 
 
 Scad, the 
 
 . 217 
 
 squatina, . 
 
 421 
 
 Sciana aquilla, 
 
 . 200 
 
 .r-, 4- y-v 11 <-*!<-* 
 
 410 
 
 
 Scomber, scomber, 
 
 . 210 
 
 Squamipinnati, Family of 
 
 209 
 
 Scomber pelayms, 
 
 . 213 
 
 Squatina angelus, 
 
 421 
 
 traclmrus, 
 
 . 217 
 
 Squatina vulgaris, 
 
 421 
 
 - ... . .. vulgaris, 
 
 . 210 
 
 Stane-checker, the 
 
 235 
 
 tScomberesox sauris } 
 
 . 276 
 
 Stickle-back, fifteen-spined, 
 
 198 
 
 Scorpion, the sea 
 
 . 181 
 
 . four-spined, 
 
 106 
 
 Scyllium canicula, 
 
 . 407 
 
 ^full-armed, ~ ~ 
 
 193 
 
 catulus t 
 
 . 410 
 
 half-armedf 
 
 192 
 
 Seithe,the 
 
 . 345 
 
 - quarter-armed, . . 
 
 190 
 
 Seluchus maximus, . . 
 
 . 418 
 
 *, n ^* M ^j 
 
 197 
 
 
 Shad, the allice 
 
 . .330 
 
 Stickle-back rough-tailed, 
 
 193 
 
 the twaite, 
 
 . 329 
 
 smooth-tailed, in Scot- 
 
 
 Shan, the smooth, 
 
 . 233 
 
 land, .... 
 
 190 
 
 Shanny, the 
 
 . 233 
 
 Sting-fish, the 
 
 172 
 
 Sharks, the 
 
 . 407 
 
 Stone-fish, the 
 
 233 
 
 Shark, the basking 
 
 . 418 
 
 Sturgeon, broad-nosed, 
 
 405 
 
 Shark, the skate-toothed 
 
 . 416 
 
 .1 sharp-nosed, 
 
 403 
 
 smooth, the 
 
 . 416 
 
 Sucker, the unctuous 
 
 383 
 
 the Ray 
 
 . 421 
 
 Sun-fish, the short. 
 
 401 
 
 Sharplin, the 
 
 . 193 
 
 Swine-fish, the 
 
 239 
 
 Sillock, the . 
 
 . 145 
 
 Sword-fish, the . 
 
 215 
 
 Skate } the ... 
 
 . 424 
 
 
 
 Y? *-T> * 
 
 400 
 
 Tadpole fish the 
 
 oeq 
 
 Skate, the blue, 
 
 f*jt7 
 
 . 424 
 
 Tangle-fish, the 
 
 oou 
 394 
 
 . Burton, 
 
 . 427 
 
 Tetradon mola, 
 
 401 
 
 Grey, 
 
 . 424 
 
 Thornback, the ... 
 
 436 
 
 .maiden, . 
 
 . 436 
 
 Thunnus Pelamys, . . . 
 
 213 
 
 - -. white, 
 
 . 427 
 
 Tope, the common 
 
 414 
 
 Skipper, the 
 
 . 276 
 
 Topknot, Bloch's . 
 
 377 
 
 Skirling, the 
 
 . 300 
 
 Topknot, Mutter's 
 
 376 
 
 Skulpin, the 
 
 . 250 
 
 Torsk,the . 
 
 357 
 
 . .. . yellow, 
 
 . 248 
 
 Trachinus vipera, 
 
 172 
 
 Sole, the 
 
 . 378 
 
 Trachinus draco, 
 
 176 
 
 Sole, the French 
 
 . 370 
 
 Trigla Blochii, (?) 
 
 181 
 
 the Mary 
 
 . 366 
 
 ' '- CUCuluSf 
 
 174 
 
 Solea, vulgaris, 
 
 . 378 
 
 gurnardus, . 
 
 178 
 
 Smelt, the 
 
 . 312 
 
 hirundo, 
 
 176 
 
 Smooth-sides, the 
 
 . 176 
 
 Trigla cuculus, 
 
 181 
 
 Sparidat, Family of . 
 
 . 202 
 
 laevis, 
 
 176 
 
 Sparus centrodontes, 
 
 . 206 
 
 lineata, 
 
 174 
 
520 
 
 INDEX TO DR PARNELL^S PAPER. 
 
 Trigla piui, 
 
 174 Weever, Lesser, the 
 
 172 
 
 Trout, {he common 
 
 104 White-bait, . . . . 
 
 325 
 
 Lochleren, 
 
 306 White trout, the . 
 
 296 
 
 Bull, the . . 288, 292 Whiting, the . 289, 292 
 
 ,-5-6 
 
 Trout, curved-spotted, 
 
 293 Whistle-fish, the . 
 
 354 
 
 few-spotted, 
 
 291 Wolf-fish, the 
 
 239 
 
 irregular-spotted, 
 
 292 Wolf, the sea ... 
 
 239 
 
 large-spotted, 
 
 292 -Wrasse, the battan . . . 
 
 256 
 
 
 Of)Q fl r r/v J 
 
 258 
 
 
 
 salmon-spotted, 
 
 291 Wrasse, the ancient 
 
 259 
 
 N"f)l v \V3.V tllC 
 
 OOQ L flmililr ^nnttrrl 
 
 258 
 
 
 
 tlic So.lmon ^cc Salmon 
 
 tliTrr* r '"nntir i rl 
 
 258 
 
 
 
 trout, .... 
 
 
 
 Trout-sea, the . . 289, 
 
 296 Xiphias glqdlus, 
 
 215 
 
 Trygon pastinaoa, . . . 
 
 440 
 
 
 Tiygon, common, the 
 Tub-fish, the 
 
 440 Zeus falter, . . . . 
 176 Zeusluna, . 
 
 220 
 223 
 
 Tunny/Stripped-bellied, the . 
 
 213 Zo&rcus ritiparus, 
 
 237 
 
 Turbotytlie .... 
 
 373 Zoarcus viviparus, 
 
 237 
 
 ERRATA. 
 Page 163, line 12, from the top, for Susa read Sula 
 
 172, 8, 
 
 TRACHURUS. TRACH1NUS. 
 
 
 192, 30, 
 
 biurus, leiiti us, 
 
 
 203, 1, 
 
 PAGRUS. PAG ELL US. 
 
 
 208, 26, 
 
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 208, 27, 
 
 crack, . cracks, 
 
 
 236, 13, 
 
 estuary shallows 
 
 
 246, 2, 
 
 situated striated 
 
 
 272, 1-6, 
 
 B. tia Botia 
 
 
 876, 8-9-14-34, 
 
 sauris saurus 
 
 
 333, 6, 
 
 GADUS. MORRHUA. 
 
 
 301, bottom, 
 
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of the Firth of ^orth. 
 
 BiOLOGY 
 
 LIBRARY 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY