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THE

FISHES OF MALABAR

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THE

FISHES

OF

MALABAR.

BY

FRANCIS J>AY, F.L.S. F.Z.S.,

ST7EGEON, MADEAS AEMY,

AUTHOR OF "THE LAND OF THE PERMAULS; OR, COCHIN, ITS PAST AND ITS PRESENT;'

ETC. ETC.

9 LONDON:
BERNARD QUARITCH, 15 PICCADILLY.

MDCCCLXV.

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PRINTED BY G. NORMAN, MAIDEN LANE, COVENT GARDEN.

LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS.

Government of Madras
„ Bombay
H. II. the Maharajah or Tkavancore

" >> ;>

H. H. the First Prince of Trayancore
H. H. the Eajah of Cochin
The Commissioner of Mysore
Medical Department, Bombay
Board of Trade, London
Chamber of Commerce, Calcutta

„ ,, Madras .

Zoological Society of London

BlBLIOTECA NACIONAL, MADRID

Universitats-Bibliothek, Wien

(per Mr. Carl Gerald's Son, Vienna.)
Free Public Library, Liverpool .
Madava Row, Esq., Dewan of Travancore
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Medical Department, Bombay
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ERRATA.

P. 17, 24 lines from bottom, insert Fam. Putstipomatidi-

27, 9
29, 17
31,15

38, 17

46,16

48, 10

10S, 7

20S, 6

„ „ ,, MlJLLTDiE.

„ „ „ Spabidje.

„ ,, „ SQTTAMIPrNTTES.

top ,, „ TEIOLIDiE.

bottom „ „ Trachinid^;.

„ „ „ SciiENIDjE.

., „ Genus Gobius.

top for " Copoeta" read " Capoeta."

DIRECTIONS TO THE BINDER.

Place

plate I. opposite

page 4

)i

II. „

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III.

. 14

),

IV. „

. 26

v. „

. 66

VI. „

. 84

VII.

. 112

VIII.

. 130

IX.

. 140

x. „

. 14S

XI. „

. 154

XII.

. 156

XIII. „

. 184

XIV. „

. 204

XV. „

. 206

XVI.

. 210

XVII.

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XVIII. „

. 218

XIX. „

. 238

XX.

. 258

PREFACE.

Whilst stationed at Cochin on the Malabar Coast of India, from 1859 to 1804
the annually increasing importance of its fisheries came most prominently to mv notice.
Desirous of ascertaining what species of fish were most abundant, and which were
best adapted for different manufactures, I was induced to make a collection of those
procurable from the sea, estuaries, or fresh waters, with notes on their habits and
uses, to elucidate which plain and coloured drawings of each species were made as
soon as possible after the fish had been captured.

When returning to Europe a note-book and two boxes of specimens were un-
fortunately mislaid, but one of the latter having been recovered, several species will
be found included in this work which are absent from my Catalogue of The Fishes
of Cochin, published in the Proceedings of "The Zoological Society of London."

The portion of India comprised under the denomination of Malabar, and the
fishes of which are included in this work, extends from Mangalore on its western
coast, in latitude 15° 25' N. and longitude 74° 50' E., to Cape Comorin, in latitude
8° 10' N. and longitude 77° 30' E. ; whilst inland it reaches to the Western Ghauts.

Having through the kindness of Colonel Sir Henry James, R. E. been shown the
mode of engraving on copper pursued at the Ordnance Office, I have been induced to
personally delineate most of the new species described in this work, as well as some
whose existence was previously deemed doubtful.

My thanks are especially due to the following friends. To the Rev. Henry Baker,
Junior, who kindly collected many specimens from the Hill ranges of Travancore, a
portion of Malabar which I was unable to personally visit ; six species received from
him appear to be new and will be severally pointed out in the descriptions. To G. A.
Ballard, Esq., the Collector of Malabar, for the returns of his collectorate and much
useful and interesting information on the present state of tbe coast fisheries. To J.
Newill, Esq., the British Resident of Travancore and Cochin, for the returns from
those Native States. To A. C. Brisbane Neill, Esq., retired list Madras Medical

b

VI

PREFACE.

Service, for his valuable assistance in carrying this work through the Press : and to
Dr. Bleeker, for having courteously examined various specimens of fish which I for-
warded to him, and been so good as to give me his opinion upon them.

The following new species, described in this work, have been placed in the British
Museum — Caranx melanostetlios : Nandus Mcdabaricus : Mugil poicilus : Ophiocephalus
diphgramme : Mastacemblus Guntheri: Hypselobagrus armatus : Pseudobagrus chryseus :
Hara Mala.ba.rica : Nemaclieihis triangularis : Platacanthus agrensis : Garra Malabarica :
Puntius melanampyx: Puntius Benisonii : Puntius parrah: Puntius perlee : Puntius
vittatus : Amblypharygnodon Jerdoni : Barilius Bakeri: Paradanio aurolineatus, &c.
AVhilst the East Indian Museum has been furnished with six of the foregoing, and also
a specimen of the Engvaulis auratus, and upwards of one hundred species which were
personally collected in Cochin, but of which I possess duplicate specimens.

The vignette represents the present state of the flag-staff tower in Cochin, raised
on the ruins of the Portuguese Cathedral of Santa Cruz, the memorable spot where the
body of the illustrious Don Vasco de Gama, Portuguese Viceroy, High Admiral of the
Indies, the discoverer of the Cape route, is believed to have been temporarily interred
about December 26th, 1524.

INTRODUCTION.

To study the wants of a people, to inquire into the history, language, habits, and customs of a
nation, is generally deemed a duty on the part of its rulers : but hardly any objects of research are
more worthy of the attention of a Government than the sources whence the food of the population
is derived, or the nature of the articles most adapted for its manufacturing processes, or best fitted
in the raw state for its home or foreign trade. In India the details of Native agriculture have
been carefully studied, if they have not been improved ; the earth has been ransacked for its
minerals; the forests have been explored for their timber; the land for its agricultural capabilities,
even the atmosphere for its meteorological variations ; and in all these matters Government has
wisely shown its interest; but the fish with which the fresh waters of Hindustan teem, and
which abound in the seas that wash her coasts, have rarely met with attention from those in
authority, or even from individuals whose private tastes have led them towards the cultivation
of zoological science.

In the British possessions in the East, no branch of natural history has received less assistance
than Ichthyology ; its utility seems to have been questioned, its scientific value nearly ignored.
Searching among the records of past times, we find that so long ago as 1777 the Dutch East
India Company directed the Governor of Cochin, then their chief town in India, to send them
information on all branches of natural history and the allied sciences ; but though rare animals
and birds were ordered to be transmitted to Em-ope in spirit, fish were not specially alluded to.
On the capture of Cochin in 1795, the whole of Malabar came under British rule; but so little
has since been done in inquiring into its natural riches, that the National Collection in London*
appears to have obtained one sobtary ichthyological species from the whole of that territory in the
course of seventy years, during which period the French and other European collections have
received and preserved much of what we have neglected, and observations on the sea fishes of
Western India, are to be sought for, not in English works, but in the proceedings of French Societies,
and in the splendid " Histoire Naturelle des Poissons " of Coviek and Valenciennes.

The first, if not the last, direct assistance which the Court of Directors of the English East
India Company gave to Ichthyology was by the publication in 1803 of Dr. Russell's work, describ-
ing 200 Fishes from the Coast of Coromandel, the materials for which were collected by the Author
whilst stationed at Vizagapatam— a book which Cuvier observed was the most important up to

* See the Catalogues of the British Museum, viz. : Chondropterygii, by Dk. Geat, 1851 ; Lophobran-
chiate Fish, Dr. Kaup, 1856 ; Apodal Fish, Dn. Kalt, 1856 ; and 5 vols, of Dr. GiixrnER's Catalogues
of the Fishes of the British Museum. The E. I. Museum possesses neither mammal, bird or fish from
the whole of Malabar, with the exception of those presented by myself.

b 2

viii INTRODUCTION.

that period on the fishes of the Oriental Seas. Since then no individual work on the ichthyology
of the Seas of India has been produced, with the exception of one in 1834 by Bennett, describing
thirty fishes of Ceylon. Dr. Hamilton Buchanan, pubhshed in 1822 The Fishes of the Ganges, in
which 269 fresh water and estuary species are given : Gbay and Hardwicke's magnificent Illustrations
of Indian Zoology, commenced in 1830, were never completed : even Colonel Stkes's Report to the
Court of Directors of the East India Company, accompanied by beautiful drawings of some fish
which he had discovered in the Dukhan, was only rescued from oblivion by being pubhshed by the
Zoological Society of London, and other Societies have saved to the public ichthyological papers by
McClelland, Cantor, and Jeedon. In contrast to this, the Dutch East India Company, alive to the
importance of this branch of zoology in the East, is at the present time giving to the world the
splendid and scientific Atlas Ichthyologique, the fruit of the patient and persevering labours carried
on for many years by Dr. Bleeker of the Dutch army.

But setting aside the scientific value of Ichthyology, the question arises whether materials fitted
for manufactures and even food most valuable to the inhabitants of India are not lost, owing to a
neglect and ignorance of the wealth contained in its waters. It is only of late years, since animal
oils have become so dear, partially due to a deficiency of that of the whale, that attention has been
directed to the immense shoals of Sardines, Sardinella Neohoivii, which are found off Malabar and
Ceylon. It is probably this fish, of which Friar Odoric, who visited Ceylon about a.d. 1320, observed,
that " there are fishes in those seas that come swimming towards the said country in such abun-
dance, that for a great distance into the sea nothing can be seen but the backs of fishes, which,
casting themselves on the shore, do suffer men for the space of three daies to come and take as
many of them as they please." (Hakluyt, ii. p. 57.) Nieuhoff recorded (Ed. a.d. 1673) that they
were abundant, and Dussumier about 1827 observed that they were employed for manuring the
rice-fields and cocoa-nut trees, but were too fat to salt well. In fact, it may be safely asserted that
owino- to ignorance of their existence and uses, Sardines, (Charlay, Malayalim), until within the
last few years, were mostly captured to manure the trees and land with, or for the purpose of
feeding pigs and poultry, the number consumed by the population being trifling in comparison
with the amount taken: whilst the Spratella fimbriata, also known as a Sardine, {Cuttay charlay,
Mai.), is much preferred for food, as well as being adapted for salting.

It appears to be but little known that Isinglass not only can be, but is, prepared in large
quantities in Malabar, from whence it is exported to Bombay under the name of " Fish sounds,"
or " Fish maws/' and eventually finds its way to China.

Salt fish is also exported in rather considerable quantities — a trade apparently susceptible of
great increase, and one which must at a future date become most important to the coffee planters
along the Western Ghauts, for this kind of food is in great request amongst the Coolies employed
as agricultural labourers, and the carriage which brings down coffee from the interior rc-conveys
a large amount.

INTRODUCTION. IX

It may, then, with safety bo asserted, that amongst tho animal products of Malabar its fish are
exceedingly valuablo, and their capture even now gives employment to largo numbers of fishermen
along the coast and backwater ; whilst further inland tho slave castes obtain much nutriment from
those which they catch early in the morning and late in tho evening, when not employed in agricul-
tural labour. On the Travancore hills the Rev. Henry Baker states that in some of the deep pools
in the rivers, the numbers of large Cyprinidas are surprising ; hundreds on hundreds aro killed by
striking them at night with knives as they rise to a torch held close to the surface of the water.

Some fish are mostly eaten fresh, some are preferred salted, others are employed in the arts,
in manufactures, or in medicine. The roes of the large Mullets and of the small Hemiramphi
are considered great delicacies, either fresh, salted, or dried. The best Tamarind fish is prepared
from the Seir fish and from the Lates calcarifer, a rather inferior quality from the Polynemus, and
the most common from any kind of fish. The process is as follows : — Tho fish is boiled, then its
bones are removed ; it is next cut into thick slices, and having been highly spiced, is left to soak
for some days, and subsequently packed in jars. It is held in great estimation in the East.

In ancient times the " Meen Kodah" or " Fish Standard" was the symbol of the kings of
Pandya, the rulers of Malabar, who up to recent times received tribute from the Rajahs of
Travancore. This device may still be traced on many of the copper coins which pass current in
the country, whilst the same design it is well known exists upon Buddhist seals. To this day the
Rajpoots are said to have a fish carried before their most illustrious chieftains when setting out
on important expeditions. Even witchcraft claims its share in the finny tribes, and the fortunate
possessor of the tail of a Ray, Trygon uarnak, with its spine intact, is believed to be safe from the
effects of spells and charms, as well as able to face the " evil eye" with impunity.

Fish are kept as objects of adoration by pious Hindus, being held typical of Vishnu, who in
this form is considered to have rescued the Vedas from the waters of the flood.

Catching a fish is asserted to be still one of the ceremonies at the nuptials of Konkanie Brah-
mans, typical of the fact that they were originally fishermen before the attainment of their present
dignity of Brahmans. The adherents to various religious creeds show antipathies to particular
tribes ; high caste Hindus of course abjure the use of all, and almost as zealously do the Jews and
Mahomedans refrain from the Rays, Skates, Eels, and the scaleless families.

No form of animal food is more common in Malabar, for it is palatable to both Europeans and
Natives : indeed, without its presence the Native Christians consider their curries to be imperfect.
Light and easy of digestion, strengthening and savoury, no wonder that it is so highly esteemed.
The flesh of sharks and rays are salted, and find a ready sale in inland places, as they are con-
sidered especially desirable for women soon after childbirth. The fins of the sharks are dried,
and find their way to China, whilst even the bones of some (the Mass) are boiled down for gelatine.

To the medical profession the subject of the effect of a fish diet upon the health of a
large population offers a wide field for investigation. A few species are observed to be highly
indigestible, or even poisonous, as the Tetraodons, known as " sea porcupines" to Europeans,

X INTRODUCTION.

but " sea frogs/' (kuddul mahcutchee, Mai.) to the Natives, and so termed from the noise they make
when captured. An Anchovy, Engraulis belama, C. V., if dressed previous to the removal of
its head and viscera, has been frequently observed to occasion death in a few hours, with all the
symptoms produced by an irritant poison. In certain seasons of the year, mostly about October,
fatal attacks resembling cholera are caused by some species if eaten. The Mackerel and allied
families if kept until they are tainted, are also highly irritating, sometimes poisonous ; while a
constant fish diet is commonly reputed to be one of the causes of the horrible leprosy Elephan-
tiasis Grcecorum, which is not rare in Malabar, as well as of the inveterate Scabies which when
checked often results in fatal dropsy. In Bengal, Hamilton Buchanan observes, eating the
Rohita cursis and drinking copious draughts of milk on the same day, is believed to be one of
the causes of Elephantiasis Arabum.

Some families, especially the Siluridce, which dwell in estuaries and fresh waters, and are
consequently in the vicinity of man, are deemed venomous, being armed with saw-like pectoral
spines, with which wounds apparently poisoned are inflicted ; they occasion intense irritative pain
and occasionally lock-jaw j while so apprehensive are the fishermen of such wounds, that as soon
as these fish are captured the dreaded spines are at once broken off : amongst these the Scorpion
fish, Saccobranchus singio, stands pre-eminent ; but according to Cuvier and Valenciennes there
are other siluroids nearly as much feared, such as the Plotosus Arab. The voracity of the Sharks in
Malabar is perhaps less than might be anticipated, but injuries inflicted by the Saw-fish, Pristis
semisagittatus, are frequent and frightful. Dangerous wounds, apparently so from the manner of
their infliction and not from the presence of any poison, are occasioned by the saw-like spine on
the tail of some of the Rays, and also from the lateral spine of the Lancet fishes. Even the spinous
rays of the Acanthopterygians often set up intense inflammation in persons in a previously bad
state of health, or during certain atmospheric conditions, whilst the bite of the Conger telabon is
considered very dangerous.

Other fish are used in India as medicines, thus the Tetraodons are prescribed by the Native
doctors in phthisis, Shark' 's-liver oil in night blindness, and the jaw of the Belone with its teeth
intact is employed as an instrument for acupuncture, its toothed side being placed over the spot
and the back of the jaw struck with a piece of wood, so that its numerous sharp teeth penetrate
the skin.

The habits of the fish might be very advantageously inquired into, for a constant succession
of arrivals and departures occurs all along the coast. The gregarious Sardine, the Indian Mackerel,
and several other families are uncertain as to the times of their advent and departure ; in some years
arriving in millions, in others all but absent, their presence in shoals can never be entirely relied
upon. Where the fish go to, and from whence they come, are interesting subjects for inquiry ;
thus the little Chcetodon pratextatus, which is usually only about a fortnight in South Malabar, and
that merely at the commencement of the S.W. monsoon, seems hardly adapted for making long
-rations.

INTRODUCTION. XI

Their colours, wonderful forms, and still more extraordinary habits, such as the saw-like pro-
longation of the snout in the Saw-fish, the curious lateral development of the Hammer-headed
shark, the elongated lower jaw in the Hemiramphus, and the developed pectoral fins in the Flying -
fish, must attract the attention of the most incurious. The brilliant colouration which obtains
in the East can scarcely be believed by those who have not examined fish when alive or just
fresh from their native clement ; the brilliancy of the Pterois genus, in fact, is so great, that on
showing a specimen just captured to a resident in Cochin, he could not be persuaded but that
some of the colouration was artificial.

The migration offish from tank to tank, and the means at their disposal for that purpose, are
also most wonderful. While their gills are kept moist by water retained in hollow receptacles
above them, they are able to live, and thus when water fails in one spot to seek a more suitable
abode, as will be more especially alluded to in the genera Anabas, Poly acanthus, Ophiocephalus,
and Saccobranchus. Again, the alleged ability of the Anabas scandens (p. 1 33) to climb palmira
trees is believed in by the Natives of South India and Ceylon, in fact the species has once been
captured in such a situation by an European gentleman. That fish can live in the mud of ponds
from the period of their drying up in one year to the commencement of the rains in the next, is
also credited by many excellent observers, but is an opinion personal observation as yet has
neither confirmed nor refuted.

Stocking new-made tanks with fish evidently receives the attention of the Natives of India,
for whenever one examines the artificial pieces of water, even the moats of fortifications, numerous
species of the finny tribes are apparent, in fact it is the rule to stock fresh pieces of water as soon
as such are collected. At Coondapoor in North Canara the Chanos argenteits exists in some large
tanks, where they are said to have been introduced by Hydee Ali, and for some years after the
British assumed the district they were under Government protection. But Natives usually stock
their new tanks with fish from the nearest pieces of water, irrespective of the size they attain, their
flavour, or their adaptability for that purpose.

Dr. McClelland suggested in 1841 {Asiatic Researches, xix.) that at the various hill sanitaria
it would be practicable and easy to make rivaria, which would at all times yield a supply of fish.
He proposed damming up a portion of some of the valleys or large water-courses, and thus forming
lakes sufficient for the purpose. He at the same time pointed out the benefit that might lie
derived from care being taken when stocking large tanks, especially near military cantonments or
towns in which Europeans resided, to choose only good and eatable fish.

Having personally observed this great requirement to exist on the Neilgherry hills, and
proposed to H. E. Sir W. Denison, K.C.B., the Governor of Madras, to attempt to remedy
it by trying to introduce the European trout by means of ova transported overland, he has
sanctioned the experiment being attempted in January, 1866, and it is to be hoped that it will
succeed.

Xll INTRODUCTION.

Owing to fish being able to retreat into deep pools or under overhanging banks during the
heat of the day, or to ascend to the surface or sun themselves in the shallows when it is cool, they
are not so sensible to changes of climate as are mammals and birds. Advantage has been taken
of this, and the gold carp of China is now naturalised in most of the countries of Europe, whilst
the common carp, a native of the South of Europe, was first brought to England in 1514,
and to Denmark in 15(30 ; but Bloch observes that in his time, 1782, owing to the degeneration of
the species in the North, due to the coldness of the climate, several vessels were yearly dispatched
from Prussia to Stockholm with further supplies of Hve carp.

Although the transport of good species of fish from England to India could hardly be expected
to succeed, that of the ova may more probably be attended with success. Bloch made many
experiments on the feasibility of fish being artificially hatched, and also as to whether it were
possible to cany ova. He proposed placing them in mud allowing it to dry, and thus conveying
it without shaking from one pond to another : his theory was based upon the supposition that as
fish appeared in dried-up tanks after they had become filled with rain water, the eggs must have
retained vitality in the mud, and that as they became moistened they vivified, and subsequently
hatched out. But the fish which appear as the tanks fill with water are full grown, so that
they must either ascend from the mud or migrate from other situations. In Europe, ova subse-
quent to the appearance of the eyes, can be conveyed alive, packed in bottles with wet moss, for
two or three days j but whether this would succeed in India has yet to be proved or disproved by
actual experiment.*

The most valuable discovery as yet effected respecting the conveyance of fish ova for long
distances is that of James A. Youl, Esq., who successfully introduced salmon and trout into
Tasmania. I propose giving, from an account which he has kindly furnished to me, a short resume
of his most interesting experiment.

Sie William Denison, K.C.B., then Governor of Tasmania, considering that some of the snow-
fed rivers of that Colony, which were almost destitute of fish, would be well adapted for their
residence, drew the attention of the Secretary of State for the Colonies to the subject, and he
deputed Me. Boccius, to make the attempt of introducing them. He tried by changing the water
three times daily to convey them from Europe to Tasmania, but failed.

In the year 1854, the attention of Mr. Youl was first directed to the subject, and he came to
the conclusion that it was not the mature fish, but the ova or small fry alone which could be
successfully conveyed through the tropics, and that the aid of iced water would be indispensable.
Unfortunately, when commencing his first experiment, no vessel could be procured proceeding

* How to obtain and treat fish ova, and how to hatch and rear the young, are fully detailed in Bpck-
lato> on "pisciculture" and several other works, so it has been deemed unnecessary to do more than introduce
the subject iu this place.

INTRODUCTION. xiii

direct, to suit tlic time of year. The ova were therefore shipped to Melbourne, from whence
they were to be reshipped fco Tasmania. On February 25th, 1860, about thirty-thousand salmon
ova were deposited in the ship " Curling," loading at Liverpool, and about to sail for Melbourne.
The ova were placed in a swing tray with a small stream of water flowing from a tank on deck
through small tin pipes placed inside and around the ice house, which contained upwards of fifteen
tons of ice. Mr. Black, who went out in charge of the experiment, reported that the last of the
ova died in lat. 29° 52' S., and long. 27° 33' W., 65 days after having been put on board, all the
ice having melted and the temperature of the water having suddenly risen to 74°.

The experiment was so far satisfactory, that it proved fish ova could be kept alive by means
of ice, whilst passing through the tropics. The result induced the Governments of Tasmania,
Victoria, and Southland New Zealand to vote money for a further experiment, which was under-
taken by Me. Youl.

On March 4th, 1862, a vessel named " The beautiful Star," sailed from England conveying a
second quantity of ova, which were packed in the following manner. A wooden tank lined with
pure tin, and holding two hundred gallons, was built on the deck, and surrounded by a casing of
charcoal. Directly underneath it was the ice house, constructed to cany twenty-five tons : at the
bottom and nearly extending over the whole of it was placed a flat iron tank capable of con-
taining one hundred gallons, and connected with the upper tank by an iron pipe which passed
nearly through the centre of the ice. Other iron pipes conducted the water after it had been
cooled, to the vivarium in which were placed the ova. The water which flowed out of the vivarium
ran into a receiving tank, from which it was pumped back to the large tank upon deck. Conse-
quently the water flowed owing to its gravity from the large tank on deck, through the iron pipe
which went through the ice-house to the second pipe, from whence it went to the vivarium, the
pipes being regulated by stop-cocks, attached to flexible gutta-percha piping at their extremities,
and from fifty to two thousand gallons could be passed through at discretion during the twenty-
four hours. Every fourth day there was a complete change of water. In the vivarium were two
sets of trays, with gravel, on which were placed the ova, one in a gimbal frame hke that of a
ship's compass, the other fitted up in a frame resembling an ordinary swing tray, such as is used
on board ship, whilst each had a separate supply of water.

It was in this vessel that the great discovery was made by Mr. Youl, second to nothing yet
known on the subject of the transport of fish ova. Having seen in Paris, moss used for packing
salmon ova, and in which they travelled short distances with perfect safety after their eyes were
developed, he packed some in moss within a wooden box, made of inch pine, and having its
sides perforated : this he deposited in the centre of the ice in the hopes that the extreme cold
might retard vivification, and the melting ice would permit sufficient water necessary to preserve
their vitality. The vessel met with contrary winds and misfortunes, and on May 8th, ] 862, the
ice was found to be very low, and the little box came to light, but in it were nineteen living ova.

c

XIV INTRODUCTION.

Nine days subsequently in S. lat. 22° 19' and W. long. 25° 53', the ice had all melted, and the ova
died seventy-four days after leaving London. This time about twenty fry were hatched out, but
killed by the excessive pitching and rolling of the ship which caused the water and gravel to be

thrown with violence against them.

Since then Salmon and Trout have been safely introduced into Tasmania by conveying the
boxes of ova in ice, and it is hoped Trout may be introduced on to the Neilgkerries by the same
process. The danger will be in crossing the desert : there will also be a difficulty in having a
sufficient supply of ice between Suez and Madras.

Fisheries, it is almost needless to observe, give employment to many individuals, either in
capturing the spoil, in preparing them for the market, or in their carriage to distant places : as well
as to the numerous trades to which they are of a greater or less importance. In the State of
Travancore each fisherman had formerly to pay a yearly tax upon the net he used, and those who
lived in the town of Cochin, or under Dutch protection, had to bring eight pounds weight of fish
daily to the senior official. Whilst in the Portuguese territory, besides their taxes, none of their
produce could be taken to market until the clergy were first served with what they required. At
the present time there is no tax upon fishermen or on their implements of trade either in the
British Territory or in the Native State of Cochin.

The modes of fishing vary with the season of the year, and whether employed in the sea,
backwater, rivers or tanks. Wall, cast, stake, and Chinese nets are all used. The last situated
on the banks of rivers — as that of Cochin — are about sixteen feet square, suspended by bamboos
attached to each corner, and let down like buckets into the water, when, after having remained
there a few minutes, they are drawn up again. Besides the foregoing, fishing with a bait is
employed, both from the shore and from small canoes. Trolling at the mouths of rivers, chiefly
for the Polynemus tetradactylus takes place mostly in the cold months. Likewise shooting with
a Chittagong bow, or bows and arrows, capturing by means of bamboo labyrinths, and poisoning
the water by Nux vomica, Cocculus Indicus, Croton-oil seed, or other deleterious substances are all
common ; also damming up and lading out streams, purse-nets in small water-courses, especially
in rice fields, catching by the hand, or by means of wicker baskets, somewhat resembling the eel-
traps of Europe, but which are rapidly pressed down over the fish by the fisherman.*

I now proceed to touch on matters well worthy the attention of those in authority. An
accurate survey of the Ichthyology of the Western Coast, and an extensive inquiry into its
fisheries and the uses to which the fish are put, appears advisable for the purpose of ascertaining the
cause of the remarkable increase in the exports of fish oil, salt fish, and isinglass, which has occurred
during the last few years. The following subjects would necessarily have to be considered.

* The various modes of fishing are detailed at pp. 488 to 493 of a work published by me, under the
title of the Land of the Permauls, or Cochin its past and its present.

INTRODUCTION. XV

1. Are the sea fisheries of Malabar at present being over-fished?

2. Are fish which contain but a small quantity of oil, but arc well adapted for salting and human
food, being boiled down along with the oil Sardines for the little that can be procured from them ?

3. lias the salt tax any bearing upon the occupation of the fish curers ?

Salting- and drying fish is largely carried on in Malabar, as the following returns will demon-
strate, but further inquiries are needed for the purpose of ascertaining whether species well
adapted for salting are not finding their way into the fish-oil boiling pot, for the preparation of the
oil entails but slight labour, little skill, and very small outlay, whilst it is not easily spoiled when
obtained ; on the other hand the manufacture of salting fish requires a large outlay — the price of
salt being so high — whilst the profits are doubtful, owing to the moisture of the Western coast,
and the perishable nature of the article, which is increased if the impure black salt is employed
in curing it. Large taxes on its sea export, duties in the Native States upon its transit alono-
the backwater — the highway of Malabar — vexatious scrutinies and detentions at the various
customs houses, have hitherto proved very detrimental to this trade in the States of Cochin
and Travancore.

Before examining into the salt returns a few preliminary remarks are necessary. In British
Malabar there are no salt manufactories, and the Natives are permitted to collect the salt earth or
impure salt as it exudes from the ground, and employ it for the purpose of curing fish, as no duty
is levied upon it, and no fiscal impediment exists in the way of their using it, so that for this purpose
it is almost exclusively employed, and manufactured salt used to a very limited extent. But
in the Native States it is manufactured by the Native government, and therefore the fish curers
must employ either the Native manufactured or Bombay salt.

The selling price of manufactured (i. e. English) salt is now the same in the British and
Native States. The latter has been induced to raise the price to what obtains in the British
territory, whilst these States are no longer treated as foreign countries, as was the case formerly,
but (save as regards two or three excepted articles) are placed on a similar footing with British
Indian ports.

The average market price of Bombay or English salt in Malabar, has been as follows : —

Rupee. A. P.
1858-59 price per maund or 82^ lbs.

1859-60 „ „

1860-61 „ „ .

1861-62 „ „ .

1862-63 „ „ .

The price will thus appear to be about 3|- lbs. for one anna, or an average of one rupee six

annas a maund. Variations in the price of salt are greatly affected by transit charges, which

imperfect communications and consequently expensive carriage renders very heavy.

In the Cochin Stale, previous to the agreement with the Madras Government, the selling price

c 2

1

2 6

1

4 6

1

8 0

1

8 0

1

8 0

XVI INTRODUCTION.

of Bombay salt was as follows, except in the Chittoor district, where it has always been sold at the

Madras Government rates : —

E. A. P.
1030 to 1033 Malabar Era price per maund or 821 lbs. . 0 9 2

1034 „ „ „ • 0 10 3

1035 „ „ „ . 0 13 9
1036 to 1039 „ „ „ ■ 0 12 7

Thus in the ten years ending 1039 M.E. or A.D. 1863-64, the average price has been slightly
more than eleven annas per maund, or nearly one-half the average cost of the same article in
British territory, as the selling price of salt is now raised to the British rate, it is equivalent to
an increase of about 100 per cent. : whether this will affect the salt-fish trade either as to quantity
or quality must be soon apparent.

The above return from the Cochin Native State has no reference to home made salt, which
for the ten years ending 1863-64, was sold at the rate of 5 Parrahs and 9^Edungalies a rupee.

In the State of Travancore, the price of black salt is 77 rupees a garce, or about ten annas a
maund.

Unless in the case of large fish, or any very particularly and carefully salted, only the Native
manufactured salt is usually employed in the Native States and the salt-earth in British territory,
the consequence is, that in the latter the article produced is of an inferior description. It may
perhaps be a fact that in the British territory, where salt-earth can be obtained duty free, the
" Salt monopoly" does not directly affect the salt-fish trade — or rather its price irrespective of its
quality — because under no circumstances could English or Bombay salt be sold so cheaply as salt-
earth. But it is open to question as to the quantity of saline matter which would be contained
in a given quantity of the two kinds of salt, and whether, if the manufacturer could procure the
better commodity at a cheaper rate than at present, he would not cure his fish in a superior
manner ; in such a case they would keep better, be more wholesome for the consumer, and could
be conveyed to much greater distances inland. The opening up of the country by means of rail-
roads is widening the field for the sale of salt-fish, whilst the coffee plantations along the hill
ranges have given an impetus to the trade, and a better article would certainly be a great boon.
It may be objected to this, that the consumer is satisfied with what he at present obtains ; but that
is not the question, which is, could not a more wholesome commodity be procured as cheaply, and
with an enormous gain in the saving of quantities of fish at present wasted ? It can hardly be
denied that taxes upon salt are directly or indirectly taxes on the longevity of the dwellers in what-
ever country such taxes obtain.

There are no duties between British-Indian ports, which are only collected upon exports and
imports over-sea from and to Great Britain, the Colonies, or foreign parts : consequently no
statistics are available of " the inland trade, but there is no doubt it has vastly increased of late
" years, and in greater proportion than the sea exports."

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XV111

INTRODUCTION.

The imports of salt-fish into British Malabar are chiefly from Canara, or when duty has been
charged from the Persian Gulf and Arabia. The exports are mostly to Tinnevelly and Colombo,
the latter being subject to the duty shown.

The Native States of Travancore and Cochin were formerly treated as foreign ports in this
trade, but that has now ceased.

" The statements (respecting Malabar) have been revised, so that the quantities exported
" from one district port to another, and re-exported from the latter port do not appear twice over
" in the tables."

In the Native State of Cochin a considerable trade is carried on in dried and salt fish,
but much larger, as the following returns will demonstrate, in the former than in the latter
commodity : —

NATIVE STATE OF COCHIN.
Imports and Exports of Salt Fish.

Years of the Malabar Era.

IMPORTS.

EXPORTS.

TOTAL DUTY.

Number.

325

Value.

Duty.

Number.

Value.

Duty.

Rupees.

Annas.

Pies.

2

11

7

Rs.

A.

p.

Rs.

A.

p.

Rs.

a. r.

1

Rs.

A.

p.

103G
1037
103S

48

12

1

15

2

••
2

3,750
4,800

8,550

562
720

1,282

8

16
21

14
9

7
7

1

16
21

15

14

9

Total . .

325

48

12

1

15

8

38

7

40 6

9

NATIVE STATE OF COCHIN.

Imports and Exports op Dried Fish from 1030 to 1039 Malabar Era.

TSTi-5 5 1863-G-i

Years of the

IMPORTS FROM TRAVANCORE.

EXPORTS

BV SEA.

EXPORTS INTO

TRAVANCORE

Total Duty.

Malabar Era.

Bundles.

Value.

Duty.

Bundles. Value.

1

Duty.

Bundles.

Value.

Duty.

Rs.

A.

P.

Rs.

A.

l'.

Rs. A.

\'.

Rs.

A.

P.

Rs. A.

P.

Rs.

A.

*■

Rs.

A. P.

1030

1649^

1178

0

7

62

9

5

218

155 11

5

9

12

10

837

597 13

9

30

2

5

102

8 8

1031

143SJ

1013

0

7

52

3

11

31

22 2

4

0

10

7

10781

772 2

11

41

6

8

94

5 2

1032

14801

1057

5

2

54

9

0

853 }

609 10

4

31

3

9

85

12 9

1033

13631

973

12

0

50

3

7

, .

867

548 3

5

27

15

9

78

3 4

1034

1714

1224

4

6

73

13

7

1012|

723 3

6

36

8

i

110

6 4

1035

1533

1105

5

4

55

7

6

246 175 15

5

5

4

5

1080

772 2

0

40

4

i

101

0 0

1036

1380J

986

4

0

50

2

7

76 542 13

9

26

13

8

1093|

781 1

2

40

1

o

117

1 3

1037

6931

495

7

2

26

10

11

1898| 1356 1

2

49

9

2

1340*

957 8

3

50

8

6

126

12 7

1038

746*

533

3

5

29

4

11

2344 1674 4

7

77

8

(i

210

149 15

11

7

13

7

114

11 0

1039

Total

2005f

1432

10

10

73

3

11

4

991
5804*

707 13

9

28

3

in

1047

748 0

7

38

0

3

139

8 0

140044

9099

5

7

528

5

4034 14

5197

15

0

9419*

6659 13

10

344

0

9!
i

1070

5 1

INTRODUCTION.

XIX

NATIVE STATE OF TRAVANCORE.

Statement showing the Quantity, Tariff, Value of, and the amount of Duty levied on
Salt Fish imported into and exported from, during the 10 years ending 1039, M.E.

1 si;:; B I

Year

SALT FISH IMPORTED.

SALT FISH EXPORT] D

Dy Sea.

By Land.

Total

By Sea

By Land.

TotaL

ol Ma-
labar
Eva.

I'u.'in.
tity.
Cwts.

Tariff ....
Value. g°&
G. Rs SBa

Quan-
tity.
Cwta

Tariff
\ alue.
Q, Ra

imtv.
a Ra

Quan-
tity.
Cwts.

Tariff
Value,
(i. Ra

Duty.

a Ra

Malabar
Era.

Quantity.
Cwts.

Tariff
Value.

Govt. Its.

Duty.
G. Rs.

Quantity.
Cwts.

Tariff
Value.
G. Rs.

Duty.
G. lis.

Quantity.
Cwts.

Tariff

Value.

Govt Ra

Duty.

a Ra

1030

152 -J

160

12

806 848

42

958|

1,008

54

1030

11,327

11,922

596

15,655

16,479

823:26,982

28,401 1,419

J 031

98

103

8

769| 809

40

8673

912 48

1031

12,030

12,663

633

L6,560

17,431

871128,590

30,091 L,504

10312

121',

127

10

99211,011

52

1,1131

1,171

62

1032

20,213

21,270

1,063

22,03s ;

23,198

1,15942,2513

11,174 2,222

1033

1013

100

8

1.071 1,127

56

1,172}

1,233

64

1033

13,672

14,413

720

16,541*.

17,342

86730,213*

31,755 1,587

1034

.0

(il

4

1,365 J- 1,137

71

1,424|

1,498

75

1034

16,950

17,843

892

18,034

L8.983

94934,984

36,8261,84]

1035

221!

233

18

1,219 1,283

64

1,440^

1,516

82

1035

16,903

17,796

889

10,8271

11,397

569 27,730.'.

29,193,1,45s

1030

L37

144

11

2,030*2,137

106

2,167*

2,281 L17

1030 19,032

20,035

1,001

20,0841

23,9091,195139,1161

43,9442,196

1037

74 i

14.7

11

2,887} 3,143

157

2,962

3,290 16S

103722,9224,

45,199

2,260

26,733}

52,5652,63349,655]

97,764 1,893

1038

4

1

0

4,012

1,265

256

4,0121

4,266256

1038 13,020

26,908

1,617

22,297*

43,7062,635 35.923*

70,614 4,252

1039

200|

391

39

4,1941

1,492 244

4,395}

1,886283

103930,068

60,982

3,561

24,0981

47,3572,707,54,166!

108,3396,268

In examining the returns of the exports and imports of salt fish it is evident how vastly the
trade has increased of late years. Thus in British Malabar the value of the exports have averaged
upwards of £5000 yearly during the last ten years : for the first half of which period the yearly
average was under £4000, and for the last half rather above £6000.

In the Native State of Cochin the exports of salt fish are recorded in the numbers exported,
but having been only furnished with the returns for three years, they are insufficient for drawing
deductions from. In dried fish there is also a difficulty respecting the exports and imports owing
to the returns being made in bundles, but it will be perceived that the Cochin State imports more
dried fish than it exports ; in fact, although it has exported 9,41 9 J- bundles into Travancore, it has
imported from thence 14,004§, leaving a balance of 4,585-f in favour of Travancore : whilst the
exports by sea have increased from 249 in the first moiety of that period, to 5555J in the latter
half. In fact, the Native State of Cochin appears to be of little note as an exporting country for
salt and dried fish.

In the Native State of Travancore, although the imports of salt fish have become five times
larger than they were ten years since, the exports show that the quantity cured in that State has
largely augmented : thus the imports which averaged a little above 11 cwt. yearly in the first half
of the last ten years, rose to very close upon 3000 cwt. yearly in the last half of that period. In
the exports the rise has been much greater than in the imports ; for the first half of the period
under review the average yearly exports were 36,005 cwts. and for the last half 41,318 cwts.;
showing an augmented yearly export of about 4,713 cwts. of salt fish, or after deducting
from the increased imports, an average yearly increase exported of upwards of 3,600 cwts. of salt
fish ; consequently the State of Travancore has dons much more during the last few years towards

xx INTRODUCTION.

increasing the food productiveness of Malabar than the State of Cochin has : this last, as will
be presently shown, has done more towards the trade of fish-oil, but it must be left for future
years to demonstrate whether the present increase of this fish-oil trade is a healthy or an
unhealthy stimulus due to present high prices ; for if the latter, the fisheries are being over-
worked, and the future loss will be great. The extreme violence of the S.W. monsoon of course
protects the fish from the commencement of June until September, but the periods of year at
which the various species spawn, more extended observations on their arrival and departure, and
a thorough examination into the fish captured as to whether the young are or are not used for
salting or fish-oil, are objects which it would be very important to ascertain.

Captain Lloyd, on the Marine Survey of the Coasts of Bengal, Cantor remarks, in the Journal
of Asiatic Society of Bengal, Vol. V., " tried salting and drying fish, and the experiment turned
out so satisfactory that I feel convinced that the process of curing, salting, and drying fish may be
easily accomplished there during the N.E. monsoon." In Malabar, could the fisherman afford the
required outlay to salt his spoils, his market would commence in the S.W. monsoon, a period of
the year during which he is now unemployed. Whilst conceding that the amount salted is yearly
augmenting, it must be admitted that much is wasted owing to an inability to afford the outlay to
cure it, whilst the price is higher than there is any occasion for, because what is now wasted and
spoiled would find its way to market, and probably would reduce the price to all.

The Indian Mackerel, Scomber kanagurta, which averages about seven and a half inches in
length, is one of the chief species which is salted, dried in the sun, and exported in bundles of
about 1000 each. They abound in shoals from January until May, and the process of curing is as
follows : — A coolie makes a cut with a sharp knife along the back bone, from the head to the
tail, and then a second along the abdominal surface, exposing the intestines. The fish is then
tossed over to a woman, who, having removed the entrails, throws it into a large basket which has
a handle on either side, this when half full is carried by two men to the sea shore, where the fish
are washed without being removed. Women and children rapidly put some black salt into each
cut, and then throw the fish into a boat close behind them on the shore — in which there is brine ;
in this last place they remain for a few hours, and are subsequently spread out in the sun, dried,
and packed in bundles. The various species of Trichiurus and the Chirocentrus dorab are also
extensively salted in the same way, and last, not least, the Spratella fimbriata.

The Bombay salt is generally employed in salting large fish : for this purpose the Rays,
Skates, and Sharks are made use of, and these last are termed Pal sora, Mai., or milk producer,
referring to the powers attributed to its flesh, which when salted is considered especially good for
women who have young infants. The large fish are cut up into square pieces for salting, and
cured much in the same way as are the smaller fish.

It is evident that along the coasts of Malabar shoals of fish come as regularly as do the crops
to the land, but the quantity is much more varied, for it is sometimes abundant, at other times

INTRODUCTION. XXI

deficient. It is probable tliat it is not so much a deficiency in fish, or increased cntorprize in
fishing, whicli is requisite in Malabar, as a want of economy in dealing with (hose captured.

Fish-oil is of two sorts, that of the Sharks and Kays which is considered medicinal, and that
of the Sardines which is made in quantities and exported very largely to Europe and elsewhere.
The following figures will show the exports and imports from the various places in Malabar for the
last few years, where the export duty was 3 per cent. " ad valorem," the imports 5 per cent, from
1854 to 1858, and 10 per cent, from 1859 to 186-4. The values in the following table since 1860
are according to the " market value," before that period according to the " Tariff value." Most
of the exports were to London.

From the following official return it will be seen that although the yearly imports and exports
of fish-oil from Malabar have shown great variations, that for the last ten years they have rather
exceeded the annual value of £7391. Irrespective of the variations due to the absence of fish, the
state of the home markets has exercised a considerable effect upon the exports. Examining the
return from British Cochin, the chief exporting town in Malabar, it appears that in five years ending
1858-59, 61,078 cwts. were exported; in five years ending 1863-64, 82,799 cwts. were exported.
In former times, as for instance thirty years ago, this export was unknown, and in fact, as lately as
the five years ending 1845-46, it had only reached 66 cwts. It rose in the next five years to
3,586 cwts. It must therefore be admitted that the trade is a comparatively new one, which has
been and is being rapidly developed.

In the Native State of Cochin a considerable amount of fish-oil is prepared, but it mostly finds
its way into British Cochin, and thus becomes incorporated into the exports from the district of
Malabar. The average export by sea for the last ten years has been about £31, but the land
exports which would be into the British territory are not included.

■s.

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[XTRonrrnox.

xxm

NATIVE STATE OF COCHIN".
Exports and Imports op Fish Oil by Land and by Sea from Iii:}0 to 1039, Malabab Era.

1 S3 I 3 5 I -...; t; I

Veaiv hi

Mil. iii, n Era,

EXPORTS BY SEA.

IMPORTS FRO J

TRAVANCORE,

IMPORTS Bl

SEA.

Total hut v.

Quantity.

Value. Duty.

Quantity.

Value.

Duty.

Quantity.

Value-

Duty.

Parahs.

= J!

— u

Us. As. P. Rs. As.
|

p

Tamils.

11

Rs.

As. P.

Rs. As.

p.

Parens.

•Ell Rs. As.

P.

Rs.

As. P.

1030
1031

721

1

517 3

5

26

11 2

26

11 2

. .

60

42 13

9

2

9 2

2

9 2

1032

48 ..

34 11 5

1 11

9

49

1

34

11 5

1 11

9

1,711

2

1,222 4

6

01

2 1

61

9 7

1033

28 2

20 0 0

1 2

3

56

4

40

0 0

2 4

7

1,100

1

785 12

7

36

12 4

40

3 2

1034

1.31 7

309 5 8

18 8

4

1,295

1

924

1 2

55 9

3

1,801

2

1,286 9

•>.

59

13 9

133

15 -1

1035

1,1251 9

804 3 5

41 14

5

3,377

7

2,412

10 4

125 11

5

1,336

4

9,543 13

9

118

15 10

586

9 8

103G

156 6

326 2 3

17 4

4, 1,369

8

978

6 11

51 13

0

2,647

2

1,890 13

9

93

0 0

162

1 4

1037

52 8

37 11 5

1 14

2

52

8

37

11 5

1 14

2

94

8

67 11

r.

•1

1 1

13 5'

lu:-!s

110 ..

55 0 0

2 12

o

219

8

109

2 3

5 7

7

47

3

33 9

-

2

0 (i

10

4 1

1039
Total

2,150

i

1,352 12 7

81 12

0

6,450

3

4,607

5 9

245 4

0

11,952
33,440

9
2

8,537 12

6

383

8 11

710

i
8 11

4,442

3,122 14 9

166 15

3,12,871

||

4,144

1 3

489 11

9

23,928 8

11

l.HSS

10 10

1,745

5 10

The State of Travancore has a much larger sea-board than that of Cochin, but is not so great
an exporter of fish-oil, which may be due to the shoals of fish not being so numerous to the south
as they are opposite Cochin. Also there have been great changes in the duties and modes of
levying them, which may have occasioned more or less discouragement to the trade. At the end
of the year 1037 Malabar era (a.d. 1861-62), the 5 per cent, import duty was raised to 6 per cent.
and the 8 per cent, duty to 10 per cent. ; in the middle of 1039 M. E. (a.d. 1863-64), the old duties
were reverted to. The same remarks apply to the exports, the tariff for which was revised in
1036 M.E. (a.d. 1860-61), when the duty on fish-oil was raised to more than three times what it
previously was, or from rupees 3, annas 1, and pice 3, to rupees 9, annas 13, and pice 2, per cwt.
The duties were also raised from 5 to 6, and from 6 to 8 per cent, but in 1863-64 were again lowered
to what they originally were. On referring to the tables, one observes that the export of
fish-oil fell off immediately on extra duties being imposed, in fact it totally ceased until the year
1863-64, which was the one in which the old rates of duties were returned to. Eeferring to the
returns of the Cochin State, one does not perceive a total cessation of the export of fish-oil at
these periods, although there is certainly a great decrease in the amount exported : the same
decrease is also apparent in the exports at these periods from Malabar, without doubt it was
partially due to a diminution in the shoals of sardines, but there can be no question that high
duties are most detrimental to this species of trade.

d 2

XXIV

INTRODUCTION.

NATIVE STATE OE TRAVANCOEE.
Exports and Imports of Fish Oil by Land and Sea from 1030 to 1039 Malabar Era.

1S54-55 1863-64

Years
of Malabar Era.

EXPORTS.

IMPORTS.

By Sea.

By Land. Total.

By Sea.

By Land.

Total.

Quantity.
Cwts.

Tariff
Value.
G. Rs.

Dutv. Quantity.
Q. Rs. Cwts

Tariff
Value.
G. Rs.

Duty. Quantity

G. KsJ Cwts.

j

Tariff
Value.
G. Rs.

Duty.
G. Rs.

Quan-
tity.
Cwts.

Tariff
Value.
G. Rs.

Dutv.
G. Rs.

Quan-' Tariff Quan-
titv. Value, tity.
Cwts. j G. Rs. Cwts.

Quan- j Tariff
tity. Value.
Cwts. G. Rs.

Duty.
G. Rs.

1030
1031
1032
1033
1034
1035
1036
1037
1038
1039

6l6

619|
636J

89*

1,3061

56|

1,451

20

1,768

1,960

276

4,023

172

14,257

1

88

9S

13

201

8

845

138

17*

5i

170+

206*

1,694 1

476

131

3

20

1,619

424

54

17

524

635

5,217

1,972

130

1

15,906

21
2

i

26
31

260

98

6

934

144T9e
17*

6251
807
296i
3,0001
532i
131

3

20

3,070

444

54

1,785

2,484

911

9,240

2,144

130

1

30,163

22
2

88j
124

44

461

106

6

1,779

31|

31
72

73f
4

95

14

10
223
234

12

4

ii

14

311

4*

31

72

731

4

95

14

10
223
234

12

4

LI
14

There are several modes in which fish-oils are prepared, as well as several descriptions of fish
from which they are manufactured. Some oils are contained in the areolar tissue beneath the skin,
or between the folds of the lining membrane of the abdomen, or in the substance of the liver.

From the livers of the Eays, Skates and Sharks is prepared the best fish-liver oil, which is
almost invariably extracted by heat. In the Madras Exhibition Report it is stated that the bad
taste and smell are due to the employment of the livers of this last family. The gland is removed
from the fish and carefully washed, the gall bladder having been rejected, it is then cut into pieces
and gently boiled in a large earthen pot for about an hour ; if the heat is excessive the quantity
of oil obtained is greater, but it has a rank fishy odour, and its colour is heightened. Whilst the
boiling is going on, the fluid is kept stirred about with a wooden spoon, and as the oil floats it is
skimmed off. The residue is then allowed to settle for two days, when it is again subjected to the
same process, with the addition of filtration for the purpose of clearing away impurities.

Fish-liver oil should be of a clear amber colour, and its smell and taste almost the same as
that of cod-liver oil. The rancid odour and bad taste which are often present are probably due to
great heat in boiling ; the admixture of impurities consequent upon proper care not having been
taken in the careful preservation of the livers from tainting, or in choosing those most adapted for
the purpose. If sulphuric acid be poured on the oil it causes discoloration, the same as in cod-liver
oil. Even the most transparent specimen deposits after many nitrations a considerable quantity
of white slightly thick grumous matter.

In the Eeport of the Juries for the Madras Exhibition for 1855 it is stated that the livers are
specifically lighter than water, and if when they are cut into any of then- substance flows out in a

INTRODUCTION. XXV

semi-liquid state, they should be rejected. It is found in Newfoundland that in a therapeutic
point of view fat livers are not so good for cod-liver oil as lean ones.

Government possesses at Calicut on the Malabar coast a small establishment, for the prepa-
ration of fish-liver oil for hospital use, the returns from which, with an account of the mode
pursued in preparing the oil, have unfortunately not been received, although applied for. If its
rancid fishy taste and high colour could be obviated, it would probably form as good an article for
consumptive patients as the cod-liver ofl. Information is still needed as to the period of the year
when the livers of the Indian fishes possess the most iodine and other medicinal ingredients, and
also whether sex has any bearing on the efficacy of the drug.

Common fish-oil, which forms so large an article of export in Malabar, may be said to be
manufactured from the OU Sardine, Sardinella Neohoivii, C. fy V., for the addition of other fishes
must be considered accidental or wasteful, whilst medicinal fish-liver oil is too valuable to be thus
disposed of. This fish-oil is prepared either by heat or putrefaction. The first is much the same
mode as is employed in obtaining the fish-liver oil, except that large iron cauldrons are used, and
that a longer time is required for its preparation. The second plan is mostly carried out in a
boat divided into two by a perforated iron compartment, the fish being left to decompose in water
on one side, and the oil floats through the partition to the other, where it is skimmed off. The
fish-oil is adapted for every use to which animal oils can be put, and its export which a few years
since was almost unrecognized, and in fact so lately as 1850-51 only amounted to the value of
£1271, has now reached an average in British Malabar of above £7000 yearly value.

Isinglass is obtained in Malabar under the designation of " fish maws" or " fish sounds," and
is exported to Bombay, from whence it finds its way to China. It is in fact an unprepared isinglass,
and the trade in it appears to be steadily increasing in Malabar, the amount having averaged
239 cwts. yearly during the last ten years. In the first half of this period the average yearly
exports were only 121 cwts., in the latter half they rose to 357 cwts. In examining the ports
from which the exports were despatched, it is unfortunate that the subject is not mentioned in
the returns from the two native States, but it is corroborative of what appears to be the case,
that the isinglass-furnishing species are more numerous towards the north than to the south :
Tellicherry and Calicut being the chief places of export, whilst the amount from Cochin only
just exceeds 11 cwts. yearly.

The Malabar isinglass or " fish maws" appears to be principally prepared from the swimming
bladder of a species of Siluroid, one of the sub-group Arii (p. 175) or Cat-fish, which G. A.
Ballakd, Esq., — who has been good enough to furnish me with a drawing of it — informs me is
termed Yeta at Calicut, and grows to two and a half feet in length : it has four cirri reaching
almost to the base of the pectoral fin; but without examining a specimen it is impossible to
determine the exact species, still all the members of the family are probably employed for this

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INTRODUCTION. X.wii

manufacture. " The ' maws' arc roughly circular, two or three inclies in diameter, and somewhat
resembling a bad muffin."

The Polynemus Indicus (p. GO) is also another of the isinglass producing fish, and is known
under the name of (Kora, Mai.) at Calicut. " Its maws are shaped somewhat like the blade of a
trowel, and from seven to eight inches in length, by two or three in width : they are not obtained
in nearly so large quantities as those of the Ye'la."

There are other species of fish, as the Lutes calcarifer ; Lobotes surinamensis ; some species
of Sciana, &c. from which isinglass could be procured, but perhaps the small quantity which they
yield, and the troublo it would entail in procuring and preparing it, render them little used in
Malabar for this purpose.

The " fish maws" of Indian commerce are the swimming bladder or sounds extracted from
the fish and dried in the sun. McClelland gives the following as the Bengal process : — "The
sounds when received fresh are opened and stripped of the vascular covering and internal mem-
brane, washed, and at once made up into any form the manufacturer finds most convenient for
packing." If dry before receiving it, it is steeped in water and the same process adopted.
For the removal of discoloured parts and softening the more solid without dissolving the thinner,
they are steeped a short time in alum water (consisting of alum 1 ounce to 4 or 5 gallons of water),
when saturated they are removed, spread on a linen or cotton cloth that has been saturated with
the same solution, then rolled up lightly and set aside for twelve hours, this is repeated till
they are bleached. It should be observed, bleaching neither improves the quality nor increases the
value of the article.

The Indian isinglass is said, (by Dr. Eotle on Isinglass, at page 74) to be " essentially good,
" and its defects such as are easily susceptible of improvement by increased attention to the pre-
paration, so as to remove the present (1849) objection; and in fact some specimens (from India)
" being better prepared than others, proves that there can be no difficulty in preparing them all
equally well." ..." Its objectionable properties consist of its still retaining something of
" the fishy smell as well as being in part insoluble, apparently from some portion of the albuminous
" membranes still continuing adherent to the purer gelatinous parts. It is probable that by increased
"care in cleaning and drying, by exposure to air, some of these defects may be removed.'' (p. 37.)
Its thickness might be decreased by stripping off more of the outer membranes, and also by
beating and pressing between slabs and rollers. Bengal isinglass appears more fibrous, because the
middle and not the inner coat is used (but this is not a proof that the inner coat of the Polynemus
Indicus is the best), instead of being torn into shreds by the hand it might be rasped or cut, for
if in shreds doubts arise as to its genuineness, whilst it cannot be cut in India so evenly as is done
in Europe by machinery, therefore sending it home in sheets is the best. It should be prepared
when the fish is fresh, and under a light roof, because the action of the sun may melt any oily
particles, and diffuse them through the membraneous structure. Oiliness and smell may perhaps

<i

XXV111 INTRODUCTION.

be removed by chemical re-agents, as lime and chlorine, but their use (unless very carefully
employed) is likely to leave a taint to which purchasers would object.

The first Indian isinglass imported into England about 1840 was only valued at four shillings
a pound, and a second specimen at one shilling and eightpence. The samples were of two qualities,
the first being the sounds removed from the fish and dried by exposure to the sun : the second
the same substance partially prepared by being cut open, the interior membrane taken out, then
washed, and subsequently flattened by beating out with pieces of wood.

The fins of some fish — more especially of the Sharks — are dried, exported, and probably
eventually find their way to China, where they are largely employed in soups. So large is the con-
sumption that from seven to ten thousand hundredweights are annually exported there from
Bombay. Forbes states that they sell in the Celestial Empire at £6. Is per cwt. These fins
are assorted into the " white" and the " black," the former being the dorsal fins, which are
uniformly light coloured on both sides, and are reputed to yield more gelatine than the other : the
" black" fins are the pectoral, ventral, and anal, the upper surfaces of which are grey or darkish,
the lower of a bght colour ; this variety is less esteemed than the white, and consequently
realizes a lower price. »

The skins of some species, as the Hypolophus sephen, are converted into shagreen, as are also
those of the sharks, which are employed for sword belts, the coverings of boxes, or for smoothing
wood or ivory preparatory to its being polished.

The refuse of fish, as their entrails, scales, heads, and fins, are employed for manuring the
cocoa-nut trees, and likewise for feeding fowls, ducks, and pigs. It is stated (Speid, " Our last
Years in India") that at Rosa, near Aurungabad, the finest grapes are raised by manuring the
vines with fish.

The scales of some of the Cyprinida? are employed in the manufacture of false pearls.

In forming collections of Indian fishes, the difficulty of preserving specimens when obtained is
great ; for in conveying them from place to place they are often damaged. Personally, I have expe-
rienced the same results as are recorded by Sir John Richardson to have occurred to Sir James
Clark Ross's collection of specimens in spirits, made during the voyage of the Erebus and Terror,
in which, " owing to the deterioration of the spirit in jars that were crowded with fish, and the long
continued action of the brine, where that liquid was employed, very many specimens entirely
perished, or merely fragments of skeletons could be rescued from the mass."

There are two methods of preserving fish for collections — the moist and the dry j and of
these an infinite number of variations, a very short synopsis of which is here given.

The dry method consists in simply drying the preserved skins, or in the fish being stuffed,
and is well adapted for large museum specimens. In many inland places in India, it is, in fact, the
only way in which such could be preserved, for spirit is frequently not to be had, or that which is
procurable is bad. The Natives of India in some places, as Madras, are able to stuff fish most

INTRODUCTION. xxjx

beautifully, and specimens preserved in the Museum at Fort St. George are second to none pre-
pared in Europe: but inland the naturalist is thrown on his own resources. There is but little
difference between the dried skin and the stuffed fish, excepting that one has glass eyes winch the
other is without, and the latter is usually mounted, whilst the former is fixed on a board or to card-
board. In skinning fish there are two methods, each of which Las its followers : in one mode both
sides of the specimen are preserved, which is done, as in birds or mammals, by dividing the
skin along the mesial line of the abdomen and removing the whole of the body through the opening,
it is the most difficult of execution, and more of the scales are usually rubbed off and more injury
done to the specimen than in the second mode, in which nearly the whole of one side of the body
and head of the fish is removed, the vertical fins being left intact. The specimen should be laid
on a smooth flat moist dish, and if the scales are very deciduous it is advisable to cover the side
of the fish next to the dish with a piece of moistened thin paper : of course whichever mode is
preferred, it is necessary to preserve and stuff the skin to its natural size, arsenical soap being the
best preservative, whilst the fish should be subsequently painted over both externally and internally
with spirits of turpentine. The specimen should be dried upon a board, and the fins retained in
their proper situation until dry by means of pins. Subsequently the specimens should be var-
nished, and then each separately fastened on to a piece of cardboard.

There is this disadvantage in dried skins and stuffed specimens, that the shape is usually
altered in preserving them, and accidents occur to the specimen, whilst they are not' nearly so
useful for scientific purposes as specimens in spirits, as they cannot be examined with reference to
many important points in their anatomy : but they are easier to carry from place to place, take up
less room, and are not so liable to spoil as those in spirit.

The moist method is no doubt superior to the dry, provided the specimens can safely reach a
Museum : an incision should be made into the abdomen, penetrating the air bladder ; the specimen
should then be placed in spirit strong enough to burn when a flame is brought into contact with it.
It should be allowed to remain thus some days, when the spirit should be removed, and some about
4 or 5 degrees stronger substituted. Should it be desired to carry the specimens any distance,
each should be separately sewn up in some soft calico. It is necessary from time to time to
examine the bottles, in order to see if the strength of the spirit is decreasing.

In some specimens received from the Rev. H. Baker, Junior, from Travancore, bichloride of
mercury was added to the spirit, but apparently without acting beneficially. A small amount of
arsenic would probably prove advantageous in the spirit, but there are of course certain dangers to
be guarded against in poisonous fluids.

Catalogues of Indian fishes, as " Ichthyological Gleanings in Madras," in the Madras Journal
of Literature and Science, by De. Jeedon, and my own paper on the Fishes of Cochin, in the Pro-
ceedings of the Zoological Society of London, are not referred to unless they contain descriptions
of new species. Some of De. Jeedon's descriptions in his Fresh Water Fishes of Southern India,

XXX INTRODUCTION.

are also omitted, as they appear to be only briefly detailed for collectors on the spot, and will no
doubt be more fully described in his forthcoming work on the " Fishes of India." Some of his
new species I have considered as identical with specimens in my own collection, as the Nemacheilus
(cobitis) rubripinnis: Puntius parrah fSystomus amphibius) : Puntius (systomus) Hamiltonii :
Rasbora (Leuciscus) Malabarica.

Being compelled to return to the East, but unwilling to defer the publication of my re-
searches on the Ichthyology of Western India, a difficulty respecting the classification arose in
the preparation of this work, as I determined not to attempt any innovations in the existing
nomenclature.

As several systems of Ichthyology are now passing through the press, and each begins at
a different point, my descriptions could not be classified in accordance with the views of
any individual author, consequently the following have been adopted : — For the Acanthop-
terygii and Anacanthini the " Catalogue of the Fishes of the British Museum," by De. Guntheb,
a work of most elaborate research, invaluable to travellers, and to those who have neither the time
or opportunity, had they the untiring energy, necessary for the examination of the numerous
ichthyological works and notes of scientific travellers. For the Physostomi and Plectognathi,
De. Bleeker's arrangement in his magnificent " Atlas ichthyologique" — so far as it is published —
a splendid record of personal industry in the East, unwearied research amongst the finny tribes
in Malaysia and elsewhere, and a model of accuracy in the discrimination of families, genera, and
species. For the Lophobranchiee, Dr. Kaup's "British Museum Catalogue:" and for the Plagio-
stomi, Dumeeil's " Ichthyologie generate" in the "Suites a Buffon." The alterations in the
classification have been made as few as possible, commensurate with giving the whole collection in
a connected manner. To increase the utility of the work, all fishes recorded by other observers as
having been collected in Malabar have been added, which, if not at present in my collection, are
denoted by * before them.

In order to avoid employing more synonyms than possible, only those given in the following
works and papers have been enumerated, except in the case of those authors who first named the
species :— Eussell's Fishes of Coromandel, 1803; Hamilton Buchanan's Fishes of the Ganges,
1822 ; Gbay and Haedwicke, Illustrations of Indian Zoology, 1830 ; Cuviek and Valenciennes,
Histoire Naturelle des Poissons, 1828-1849; Bennett's Selections from the most remarkable and
interesting of the Fishes of Ceylon, 1834 ; McClelland's Indian Cyprinidce, in the XlXth volume of
the Asiatic Besearches, 1839, and his various papers in the Calcutta Journal of Natural History;
Sykes' Fishes of the Dukhan, in the second volume of the Transactions of the Zoological Society,
1811; Cantor's Malayan Fishes, 1S49 ; Jerdon's Fresh-water Fishes of Southern India, in the
Madras Journal of Literature and Science, XVth volume, 184S-49; Gray's Chondropterygii in the
British Museum, 1851 ; Kaup's Catalogue of Apodal and Lophobranchiate Fishes in the British
Museum, 1856 ; Bleekee's Atlas Ichthyologique, up to the commencement of Volume V, 1862-1865 ;

INTRODUCTION. xxxj

Gunther's Catalogue of the Fishes of the British Museum, the first five volumes, 1859-1865;
Dumeiul, Ichthyologie ginirale, volume the first, 18G5.

Before commencing the individual descriptions, a few explanatory remarks are requisite on
the mode adopted in taking measurements, &c.

Roman figures are employed to designate the number of the branchiostegous rays : also the
Unlets, as in the Caranx Rottieri, &c, or elongated free rays, as appendages to the pectoral fins
in the Polynemi; an exceptional case being in the Bregmaceros Macclellandi, in which it is im-
possible to give the various portions of the fins distinctly without using these figures.
O signifies an adipose fin.

In counting the number of rays, when two arise from one interneural or interhmmal spine, as
frequently takes place in the last of the dorsal and anal fins, they are reckoned as one, a plan
sanctioned by high authorities, but open to objection and not adopted by Dr. Bleeker. In the
caudal fin the small outer rays are not included. The horizontal procumbent spine which exists in
many genera before the base of the dorsal fin is not included in the formulary, neither is the short
vertical bone before the dorsal spine in many of the siluroids.

By L. I. is meant the number of pierced scales, extending from the shoulder bones to the
base of the caudal fin. By L. r. the numbers of rows of scales passing downwards from the back
to the lateral line along its whole extent. By L. tr. the number of scales in a row passing down-
wards from the origin of the dorsal fin to the lateral line, and between the lateral fine and the
abdomen. In speaking of the lateral line of mullets, the term is only used for convenience of
description, as it is absent.

By the total length, is meant that included between the end of the snout and the centre of
the termination of the caudal fin, unless otherwise stated, as in the Fistularia serrata, in which
the two central rays are produced into long filaments.

By the length of the head, is commonly meant from the anterior end of the jaws when closed
to the posterior extremity of the bony opercle; to this several exceptions exist, as in the Alutarius
Icevis, in which the eye and much of the skull is behind that situation, whilst in the Hemiramphus
the lower jaw is extended in the form of a beak far beyond the mouth.

By the length of the snout, is meant the distance between the anterior margin of the orbit
and the centre of the intermaxillaries, unless otherwise stated, as in the Genus Belone.

By the length of the base of a fin, as the dorsal, is meant the distance between the base of its
foremost to that of its hindermost spine or ray, except in those genera which have a procumbent
horizontal spine before them, which is not included.

By the length of a fin is meant its extreme length even when it is prolonged, thus in the
Polyacanthus cupanus the pectoral is given to the end of its filament.

By the height of a fin is meant the length of its longest spine or ray, unless otherwise
expressed.

XXXli INTRODUCTION.

The diameter of the eye is its horizontal, unless its vertical is also given. The comparative
size of this organ varies with age, being almost invariably comparatively larger in the immature
than in the mature specimen, but even here an exception occurs in the Elops apalike.

By height of body is meant its greatest vertical diameter. By width of body its greatest

thickness.

By spine is meant an unarticulated bony or spinous ray. By ray those which are articulated,

whether branched or single.

The measurements are intended to refer to the adult fish.

In speaking of the origin or commencement of a fin, the anterior extremity of its base is
referred to, unless otherwise specified.

The terms right (dextral) and left (sinistral) are employed with reference to a flat fish when
placed with its tail towards the observer, its dorsal fin upwards and its anal downwards.

The term Seas of India has reference to the sea on the Eastern side of the Peninsula of
Hindustan, as well as to that on the "Western.

Cheltenham,

August 27th, 1865.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR

Sub-Class.— TELEOSTEI.

Order. — ACANTHOPTERYGII.

Fam. BERYCIDjE.

Genus HOLOCENTRUM, Artedi.
Corniger, Agassiz.

Branchiostegals, eight. Form of body oblong, compressed ; eyes large, lateral ; jaws equal, or lowest
slightly the longest j muzzle moderate, nearly horizontal. Two dorsals scarcely united ; ventrals with
one spine, and seven rays ; caudal forked ; anal with four spines, the third long and strong. Opercles
and suborbitals serrated, opercle with two spines. Villiform teeth in both jaws, vomer, and palatine
bones. Scales moderate, ctenoid. Swimming bladder simple, oval. Pyloric appendages many.

* HOLOCENTRUM RUBRUM.

ScivENA rubra, Forskcd, Descript. anim. p. 48.

Holocentrum orientale, Cuvier & Valenciennes, Histoire Naturelle cles Poissons, iii.

p. 197, vii. p. 497.
Holocentrum marginatum, Cuv. & Vol. iii. p. 216.

Holocentrum rubrum, Giinther, Catalogue of the Fishes in the British Museum,
i. p. 35.

B. viii. D. Tl.Vg. P. 15. V. }. A. f. C. 17. L.l. 35. L. tr. f. Vert. fj> Csec.pylor. 20.

Length of head f, of caudal 4| in total length. Height of body f, of third anal spine
4J-$ in total length. Interorbital space -J- of length of head.

Preopercle serrated ; interopercle coarsely denticulated ; opercle with two strong spines, the
upper the largest. Groove for intermaxillary process shorter than the diameter of the eye. Supra-
scapular and coracoid denticulated.

Teeth — Villiform in jaws, vomer, and palatines.

Fins — Third, fourth, and fifth dorsal spines the longest ; the soft rays being a little higher
than the spines. The third anal spine longest. Ventral slightly longer than pectoral, and reaches
to the anus. Caudal divided into two equal lobes. Scales slightly striated.

Colours — Red, with eight alternate longitudinal bands of red, and gold or silver. Dorsal,
purplish with a red base. Caudal, ventral, and pectoral, reddish. Anal, with a purplish mark
between the second, third, and fourth rays.

Good eating, said to be obtained in Malabar most abundantly during the N. E. monsoon.

Habitat — Red Sea, seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

B

2 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fam. PERCIDjE.

Genus LATES, Cuvier and Valenciennes.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchiae present. Preorbital, and humeral bones strongly serrated,

preopercle with strong spines at its angle, and denticulated along its inferior margin, opercle spinate.

First dorsal with seven or eight, anal with three spines. Tongue smooth. Teeth villiform, on upper and

lower jaws, vomer and palatine bones.

Lates calcaeifer.

Holocenteus CALCARIFER, Block, Auslandische Fische, t. 244.

Lates nobilis, Cuv. & Vol. ii. p. 96, pi. 13 ; Cantor, Catalogue of Malayan Fishes, p. 1.

Lates calcarifer, Giinther, Catal. i. p. 68.

Coius vacti, Hamilton Buchanan, Fishes of the Ganges, pp. 86, 369, pi. 16. f. 8.

Pandoomenoo, Russell, Fishes of Coromandel, pi. 131.

Begti, Bengallee. Nuddee meen, Malayalim.

B. vii. D. 7-8 | xx.Lj. P. 17. V. \. A. ?%. C. 17. L. 1. 52. L. tr. T7T.

Length of head about \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^ of
total length. Height of head \, of body f of total length.

Eyes — Diameter f length of head, § of a diameter apart, If from end of snout.

Preorbital and preopercle finely serrated, the latter with its angle obtuse, having a large
tooth directed backwards, and three smaller (but strong) denticulations along its inferior margin.
Opercular spine weak. Suprascapular and coracoid bones toothed, about five on the former, from
six to ten on the latter.

Teeth — Villiform on upper and lower jaws, vomer, and palatine bones.

Fins — Dorsal spines strong, the first half as high as the second, which is not quite a third as long
as the next, which is the highest : from thence they rapidly decrease. Third anal spine more than
double the length of second, which is twice that of the first. The first dorsal triangular, second
dorsal and anal square. Pectoral small and rounded. Ventral slightly rounded, caudal fan-shaped.

Colours — Generally grey with a dash of green along the back, and silvery on the abdomen :
in the monsoon time with a tinge of purple, whilst young specimens are darker than adults.

Very plentiful, grows to five feet in length. Is excellent eating, salts well, and from it some
of the best " Tamarind fish" is made. Air bladder thin, a large fish not yielding above one ounce
of isinglass. It is known as the " Nair fish" in Malabar, and the " Cock-up" in Calcutta.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India and Malaysia.

Genus SERRANUS, Cuv. and Vol.

Branchiostegals, seven. Preopercle more or less serrated, with its lower limb entire : opercle with
two or three flat spines. Dorsal fin single, with from eight to twelve spines : anal with three. Teeth
villiform in jaws, with more or less pointed ones and distinct canines in each intermaxillary, also on vomer
and palatine bones. Tongue smooth. Scales small.

Serranus SEXFASCIATUS.
Serranus sexfasciatus, Cuv. & Val. ii. p. 360; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 108.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 3

B. vii. D. *$$*. P. 18. V.},. A. f. C. 17. L, r. about 100.

Length of head \, of pectoral ], of caudal };, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal J of the total
length. Height of head J, of body ^, of hard dorsal J, of soft dorsal I, of ventral I, of anal J of
the total length.

Eyes — Transversely oval, longest diameter I length of head, {of a diameter apart, \ of a
diameter from end of snout.

Maxilla extends to beneath tho centre of the orbit, preorbital entire : preopercle strongly
serrated at the posterior portion of its vertical limb, two strong teeth at its angle, the
superior directed backwards, tho inferior which is tho strongest directly downwards ; inferior
limb horizontal, entire. Operclc with three spines, the central flat, strong, distinct, the inferior
less developed, the superior almost concealed. Sub- and interopercles entire.

Teeth — Villiform in upper and lower jaws, vomer and palate, an external larger band in
superior maxilla, and a large canine on either side of each intermaxillary : teeth in centre of
lower jaw largest, whilst all are directed more or less backwards.

Fins — First dorsal spine t3q shorter than the second, which is jfo shorter than the third, from
thence the rest of the spines and the first thirteen soft rays are about the same height. Anal, first
spine half the height of the second, which is stronger than, but of the same length, as the third ;
and they are t3q shorter than the soft rays. Fins rounded.

Lateral line — In upper fifth of body, and on about the twentieth row of scales.

Colours — Brownish with a dash of pink on the back, and becoming of a pinkish rose colour
on the abdomen. Six vertical dark bands, one passing over the head ; the second from fourth to
sixth spine passes downwards over the pectoral to the base of the ventral ; the third from between
the eighth and eleventh spines is lost midway between ventral and anal fins; the fourth arising
opposite from the third to seventh dorsal rays, passes to base of spines and first soft ray of anal ;
the fifth arising between the tenth to the fourteenth soft dorsal rays passes down to last four rays
of anal ; the sixth passes over the tail just before the origin of the caudal fin. A black line passes
from the lower margin of the orbit to the angle of the preopercle. Fins stained darker at
their margins, and the bands partially continued on to them. Eye rose coloured.

Small in size, nearly eight inches in length, being the largest captured in Cochin. In Sir
Emerson Tennent's collection of drawings of the " Fishes of Ceylon" is one apparently of this
species, with a remark that the specimen was four feet and a half in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, and Malaysia.

Serranus bontoo.

Serranus bontoo, Cuv. & Vol. ii. p. 334, vi. p. 523; Cantor, Catal. p. 11 ; Giintlier,

Catal. i. p. 138.
Madinawa bontoo, Russell, pi. 128.

B. vii. D. T^TT. P. 19. V. l. A. f. C. 17. L. r. about 100.

Length of head \, of pectoral -£s, of caudal \, of base of dorsal f , of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal j1^, of soft dorsal ^, of ventral \ , of anal \ of
total length.

Eyes — Diameter } of length of head, the two slightly approximate at their upper margins,
where they are \ of the length of the head apart, and the same distance from the end of the

snout.

Posterior extremity of maxilla extends to slightly behind the orbit. Preorbital entire. Pre-

b 2

4 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

opercle finely serrated on the posterior margin of its vertical limb, four large serratures at its angle
directed downwards and backwards, inferior limb rather oblique and entire. Opercle with three
spines, the upper and lower partially hidden by the scales, the centre one flat and distinct.

Teeth — Villiform in upper and lower jaws, vomer, and palate ; a canine on either side of each
intermaxillary, teeth in front of upper jaw the strongest, and curved slightly backwards ; in the
lower jaw the posterior teeth the longest and strongest.

Fins — First dorsal spine rather more than half the height of the second, which is slightly
shorter than the third, from thence the rest of the spines are about the same height. Ventral spine
weak. Anal, first spine a little more than half the length of the second, which is the strongest but
not quite so long as the third, the soft rays twice the length of the third spine. Fins rounded.

Lateral line — In upper fifth of body on the thirteenth row of scales.

Colours — Brownish grey on the back, the intensity of which gradually fades towards the
abdomen. When living there are five or six dark vertical bands on the sides, but these fade after
death. The whole of the head, body, and fins is covered with round dark brown, or black spots
(sometimes absent on the fins), the largest, amounting to blotches, being on the sub- and inter-
opercles and jaws. Fins darkish grey ; dorsal darkest at its basal half, its margin also stained
of a deep colour. Iris with a golden margin.

It does not appear to exceed thirteen inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, and Malaysia.

* Serranus flavo-cceruleus.

Serranus flavo-cceruleus, Guv. & Val. ii. p. 297; Bennett, Fishes of Ceylon, pi. 19;
Giinther, Catal. i. p. 145.

B. vii. D. T-gVh- P. 18. V. i. A. f. C. 15.

Preopercle with flat and strong denticulations at the angle. Opercle with three flat spines,
the superior and inferior of which are small, and with difficulty to be distinguished.

Fins — Caudal slightly emarginate, the other fins rounded.

Colours — Deep blue with some paler spots on the sides posterior to the pectorals, which as
well as the back become brown after death. All the fins yellow, some black at the extremity of
the ventrals.

Habitat — Seas of Ceylon, Malabar, Mozambique, and of the Mauritius.

* Serranus erythrurus.
Serranus erythrurus, Guv. & Val. ii. p. 320.

B. vii. D. fi-. P. 17. V. i A. f. C. 17.

Preopercle finely denticulated posteriorly, smooth inferiorly. Fins rounded.
Colours — Back and upper part of head greenish shot with red, the lower portion of the body
silvery white. Dorsal greenish, pectorals, ventrals, and anal yellow, caudal red.

Serranus lanceolatus, Plate I. Fig. 1 and 2.

HOLOCENTRUS LANCEOLATUS, Blocll, t. 242, f. 1. {ijOlOlij)

Serranus lanceolatus, Guv.& Val. ii. p. 316 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 8 ; Giinther, Catal. i.
p. 107.

8a 'J

PLATE I

HB

i mp

a t?

1 ^m-

/:!/-. '■■■:

« g

%

j-;,,

'**

F,Day, del ,<■' fctdp.

i- o c i- u u \ v t -^ I \ N (' V, O I. \TT S. .i ti It 1 1 .

J S IUIIIASI- S I.AM CEOLATIXS. Young. 2.SEH-RAMJS I. A .".

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 5

Serranus horridus, Cuv. & Val. ii. p. 321 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 9 ; Giinther, Catal. i.
p. 13G.

SUGGALAHTOO BONTOO, Russell, pi. 130. (yOWW£.) KuRRUPU, Mai.
B. vii. D. TJ|B. P. 19. V. \. A. f. C. 17. L. r. 90-105.

Length of head f , of pectoral J, of caudal l of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of the total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal fa of soft dorsal 1, of ventral J, of anal $ of
the total length. In young specimens the proportionate height of the dorsal spines (as in some
other Serrani) is greater than in the adult.

Eyes— Diameter A length of head, 1J diameters apart, 1^ from end of snout.
The maxilla reaches to beneath the posterior margin of the orbit : sub- and interopercles
entire : preopercle with a rounded, finely serrated, posterior vertical margin : the serratures
roughest at the angle, horizontal portion entire. Opercle with two spines, the inferior the most
distinct. Preorbital entire, as are also the suprascapular, scapular, and coracoid bones.

Teeth— Villiform in jaws, vomer, and palatines : some larger ones in each intermaxillary : an
external series of conical ones in the lower jaw : no canines.

Fins—The dorsal spines are not nearly so long as its rays : the first spine is little more than
half the height of the second, which is a little more than three-quarters that of the third, from this
they are all about equal in height, and nearly half as long as the soft portion of the fin. Ventral
spine moderately strong. First spine of anal one-third the height of the second, which is two-
thirds that of the third. Fins rounded.

Lateral line — In upper fifth of the body.

Colours— These vary exceedingly with the age of the fish ; the very young are of a fine citrine
or sulphur ground colour, with irregular black bands and markings, which become more distinct
as the size of the fish increases : up to about a foot in length it continues of a bright gam-
boge, with five vertical blackish blue bands, the first passing from the orbit directly downwards
over the preopercle : the second from the crown of the head downwards over the opercle, and
slightly impinging on the preopercle joins the first band anteriorly whilst passing backwards over
the pectoral fin it joins the third band, which last commences in the space occupied between the
third and tenth dorsal spines, passes downwards, becomes narrower and coalesces with the second
band in front as already described, and loses itself on the abdomen. The fourth band extends
from the fifth to the last soft ray of the dorsal fin, and passes directly downwards to the whole of
the base of the anal. The fifth band is situated between the base of the caudal, and the termina-
tions of the dorsal and anal fins. There are some large black blotches on the jaws. The fins are
of the same bright yellow ground colour as the body, and have black spots or blotches forming
confluent lines near their bases, which in the pectoral are disposed in three or four arched
undulating bands.

As the fish becomes upwards of a foot in length the intensity of the dark bands decreases,
the vividness of the yellow ground colour of the body lessens, and marbling can be distinctly
perceived over the whole of the surface, but the colour of the fins remains the same.

In the adult, hitherto known as the Serranus horridus (Plate I. figure 2, reduced from a spe-
cimen 22TV inches in length), the back is brownish gradually fading into grey on the abdomen,
the whole being marked over with blackish grey lines. The spinous portion of the dorsal brownish
yellow, with a dark base : the soft portions of the fins of the same colours as in the young. Ins
brown, with a golden rim.

6 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

It grows to a large size in Malabar. Cantor mentions one captured at Pinang, the weight of
which exceeded 130 pounds. It is good eating.
Habitat — The seas of India and Malaysia.

Serranus DIACANTHUS.
Serranus diacanthus, Guv. & Val. ii. p. 319; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 110.
Killi meen, Mai.

B. vii. D. |l. P. 19. V. \. A. f . C. 16-17. L. r. about 90.

Length of head J, of pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal } of total
length. Height of head §, of body -J, of hard dorsal ^> of soft dorsal |, of ventral T2g, of anal
i_

8

of total length.

Eyes— Diameter \ length of head, \\ diameters apart, 1^ diameters from end of snout.

The maxilla reaches to beneath the posterior margin of the orbit. Preorbital entire : sub- and
interopercles entire : preopercle with a roughly serrated posterior vertical margin, the serratures
becoming larger at the angle which is cut nearly square, the four lower teeth flat and exceedingly
sharp, horizontal portion oblique, entire. Opercle with three spines, the central one of which is the
largest, the other two being nearly concealed.

Teeth — Sharp and numerous in upper and lower jaws, vomer, and palate. A large canine on
either intermaxillary, teeth in maxilla largest in front and curved backwards ; in lower jaw largest
behind and also directed backwards.

Fins — First dorsal spine slightly more than half the height of second, which is four-fifths of
the height of the third, from thence all are the same. Ventral spine rather weak, not quite half the
length of the rays. First anal spine not quite half so long as the second which is rather shorter
than the third, which last is the strongest. In young specimens the comparative length of the
spine to the rays is more than obtains in the adult. Fins rounded.

Lateral fine — In upper fifth of body, on sixteenth row of scales.

Colours — Back brownish, fading into white on the abdomen, whilst the whole of the fish even
over its brachiostegal rays is covered with bright orange spots, intermingled on the head and tail
with brown ones. Head darkish, one vertical brown band commences at the margin of the first
four dorsal spines, passes down them and descends nearly as low as the pectoral fin : a second arises
between the seventh and ninth spines and is lost on the abdomen : two more descend from the soft
portion of the dorsal fin, and a fifth crosses the tail between the termination of the dorsal fin and
the origin of the caudal : whilst a sixth broad one crosses the base of this last fin. Pectoral
reddish spotted with yellow : eye dark-brown, its upper part of the deepest tint.

Sometimes the caudal, pectoral, and ventral are unspotted, but marked with darker shades,
and the bands are continued on to them. In young specimens the bands are most distinct, when
the fish becomes upwards of a foot in length they begin to fade, likewise they always become
more or less indistinct after death, and sometimes quite disappear.

The descriptions of the Serranus suillus, C. ty V. and S. salmonoides, Lacep. apparently taken
from large specimens, seem hardly to be dissimilar from the S. diacanthus, C. fy V. excepting
that the latter is banded : but as this portion of the colouration usually becomes obsolete in large
specimens the distinction between the species appears to be still a desideratum.

Grows to a large size, and is good eating.

Habitat — The seas of India, China, and the Mauritius.

THE FISnES OF MALABAR. 7

* Serranus FORMOSUS.
Raiitee bontoo, Russell, pi. 129.
Serranus formosus, Cuv. & Vat. ii. p. 311 ; Gimthcr, Catal. i. p. 154.

B.vii. V.nshs- p-15- Y-h A-^-V a1^ L-r-75'

Length of head nearly J of total length. Eyes, diameter T% of length of head. Prcopercle
finely and evenly serrated ; suboporclo with some serratures : intcropercle entire. Three strong
spines on the opcrcle.

Colours When alive extremely brilliant, but they soon fade after death ; snout pale blue, lips

and throat spotted with a deeper blue, and fillets of the same colour diverge from the orbit, and cross
the yellow opercle, and branchial membrane. Back and sides variegated alternately with azure
and dark yellow fillets. Dorsal interspinous membrane pale blue, edged with yellow ; the other
fins azure striped with dusky yellow.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus GENYOROGE, Cantor.
Diacope, Cuv. & Vol.

Branchiostegals, seven. Preopercle with a notch above its angle as deep as broad, receiving a more or
less spinous knob of the interopercle. Opercle with two or three flat spines. Dorsal fin single, with from
ten to eleven, rarely more, spines ; anal with three. Teeth villiform, with canines in both jaws : teeth on
palatines : tongue smooth, scales moderate.

GENYOROGE CffiRULEOPUNCTATA.

Kallee maee, Russell, pi. 96.

Diacope cxeruleopunctata, Cuv. & Veil. ii. p. 424.

Genyoroge cozruleopunctata, Gunther, Catal. i. p. 182.

B.vii. D. f5. P. 16-17. V.J. A. 3$. C.17. L. 1. 45-50. L. tr. &.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body J, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal }, of ventral \, of anal \ of
the total length.

Byes — Transversely oval, horizontal diameter 3§, and vertical diameter 4f in the length of the
head, rather more than 1 diameter from the end of snout, and \ a diameter apart.

The profile rises considerably to the commencement of the dorsal fin, the eye is close to the
summit of the head.

The maxilla extends backwards as far as the anterior margin of orbit : openings of nostrils
in front of upper quarter of orbit. Preorbital with an irregular lower margin. Preopercle,
vertical limb finely serrated, even in its notch which is situated close to where it makes its inferior
curve, angle rounded, lower limb rather oblique, more coarsely serrated than its vertical margm.
Sub- and interopercles entire, the latter with a large triangular tuberosity directed a little
upwards and backwards and received into the preopercular notch ; opercle with two flattened spines,
the lower the largest.

Teeth— Villiform in both jaws in three or four rows, with an external series about three times
the size of the others : two large canines in each intermaxillary. Villiform teeth on vomer and palate.

Fins— Dorsal spines very strong, increasing in length to the third, whilst from the fifth they

8 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

decrease. Ventral spine moderately strong. First anal spine rather strong, half as long as second,
which is very strong and slightly longer than the third, which is also weaker. Pectoral triangidar,
pointed. Caudal slightly emarginate. Soft portions of dorsal and anal rounded. Ventral pointed,
first soft ray prolonged.

Scales — Above lateral line pass backwards and upwards, below it in horizontal parallel rows.

Lateral line — In upper quarter of body.

Colours — Back above the lateral line olive, with a bluish slate coloured spot in the centre of
each scale, thus forming lines passing backwards and upwards. Abdomen greyish slate colour,
with horizontal golden lines along the centre of each scale, and vertical dark ones passing along
their bases, several beautiful blue lines pass downwards and backwards over the preopercle and
are continued on to the opercle : two larger ones run horizontally along the preorbital and
suborbital bones. A large white finger mark on the lateral line opposite the third, fourth, and
fifth soft dorsal rays having a wide anterior black margin, and also a posterior superior one of the
same colour. The white mark covers four scales transversely, and is one scale below and three above
the lateral line ; the anterior black margin is from three to four scales transversely, but posteriorly
it only covers two. Dorsal fin slate coloured with the superior margin of the interspinous membrane
orange red, membrane between the rays reddish, its external border pink with a narrow white
margin. Pectoral with a reddish tinge. Ventral slate coloured with darkish margin. Caudal
slate coloured tipped with red. Anal with some white spots, and the first portion of the soft rays
edged with white. Eye golden, with a brownish red margin to the pupil. After death the colours
fade, and it appears olivaceous with a large white finger mark edged with black on the side.

Grows to at least two feet in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Genyoroge notata.
Antika doondiawah, Russell, pi. 98.
Diacope notata, Guv. & Vol. ii. p. 422.

Genyoroge notata, Cantor, Catal. p. 12 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 181.
Vella chembolay, Mai.

B. vii. D. W. P. 15-16. V. I. A. ft. C. 19. L. 1. 52. L. fcr.

s

j4. A . J.U-.LU. » . g. .□.. g. \J. -LC. ±J. 1. UU, iJ. VL. J4.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal f^, of base of dorsal |, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal ^, of soft dorsal \, of ventral J, of anal ^ of
total length.

Eyes — Transversely oval, horizontal diameter A, and vertical diameter \ of length of head, \ a
transverse diameter apart, slightly more than 1 diameter from end of snout.

Maxilla extends backwards as far as anterior margin of the orbit : openings of nostrils in front
of upper third of orbit. Preorbital with an irregular lower margin. Preopercle, vertical limb
finely serrated, even in its deep notch for the reception of the tuberosity of the interopercle, and
which is situated close to where it makes its inferior curve ; angle rounded, inferior limb horizontal,
convex, serrated but not so finely as its vertical Hmb. Sub- and interopercles entire, the latter
with a large triangular tuberosity directed upwards and outwards, and received into the
preopercular notch. Opercle with a small point, nearly concealed.

Teeth — A single external row of teeth in both jaws about three times the size of the three or
four internal ones, which are villiform : two large canines hi each intermaxillary. Teeth vilhform
on vomer and palate.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. lJ

Yms — Dorsal spines rather strong, increasing in length to the third and Court h, from whence they
decrease. Ventral spino moderately strong. First anal spine a little more than half the height of
second, which is one-fifth longer than the third, whilst the third is weaker than the second.
Pectoral, triangular, pointed. Caudal emarginate. Ventral with first ray prolonged.
Scales — Above lateral line pass backwards and upwards, below it in parallel rows.
Lateral line — In upper third of body.

Colours — Pinkish golden, superior surface of head and eye pink : cheeks, especially sub-
and interopercles golden. Back pinkish, with oblique lines passing upwards and back-
wards, and which are sometimes of an orange colour. A large black spot on the lateral line
opposite the fifth, sixth, and seventh rays of the dorsal, two-thirds of it being above the lateral
line. Abdomen golden tinged with yellow, having a darker line running along the centre of each
scale. Dorsal margined with white, beneath which is a line of black, the remainder reddish violet,
with the exception of a light band running longitudinally along its centre. Caudal tipped with
white, the remainder greyish red, with a light bar passing vertically across its centre. Anal tipped
with white, reddish inferiorly, divided by a white line from a golden base. Ventrals and pectorals
golden. The colours vary with age.

Does not appear to grow to a large size. Russell mentions one eleven inches.
Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

* Genyoeoge EIVULATA.

Diacope eivulata, Guv. & Vol. ii. p. 414, pi. 38.
Genyoeoge eivulata, GHinther, Catal. i. p. 182.

B. vii. D. jfJh. P. 16. V.i. A.&. C. 16. L.l. 54.

Length of head T3T of the total. Height of body ^ of total length. Caudal fin slightly emar-
ginate.

Colours — Violet, with white (blue ?) spots on the head, and oblique white lines which are irre-
gularly tortuous, forming islands and rings on the opercles. Each of the scales on the body has a
blue mark upon it. Abdomen rosy, the soft portions of the fins blackish. The anal and the
ventrals have their margins stained blackish. Dr. Giinther states that there is " a white spot above
the lateral line, above the front edge of the anal fin, more or less visible in dried specimens ;" but
such is neither mentioned by Cuv. fy Vol. in their description, nor shown in their plate.

Grows to three and a half feet in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

* Genyoeoge alboguttata.
Diacope alboguttata, Guv. & Vol. vii. p. 445.

B. vii. D- IS- A- t-

Colours— Body grey, with purplish reflections, having a white spot on the side, which is
traversed in the middle by the lateral line. Fins greyish, the spinous portion of the dorsal
bordered with red.

This may be the G. cceruleopunctata. C. & V.

Habitat — Malabar.

10

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Genus MESOPEION, Cuv.

Branchiostegals, seven. Preopercle finely serrated, without or with a very open notch. Opercle with
three, or two, more rarely with one indistinct point. Dorsal fin single, with from nine to twelve spines,
anal with three. Teeth villiform in both jaws with canines, teeth on the vomer and palate. Scales moderate.

Mesopeion EANGUS.
Eangoo, Russell, pi. 94.

Mesopeion eangus, Cuv. & Vol. ii. p. 481 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 14 ; Guntker, Catal. i. p. 199.

.tV P. 16. V.i A. f. C. 16-17. L. 1.46. L. tr. 4-,

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal § , of base of anal l of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of base of caudal ^ of
ventral \, of anal \ of total length.

Bye— Transversely oval, horizontal diameter \, and vertical diameter \ of the length of the
head, 1^ diameter from end of snout, f of a diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of orbit. Openings of nostrils rather
wide apart, in front of upper fourth of orbit. Preorbital entire. Preopercle emarginate and finely
serrated on its vertical limb, angle rounded, lower limb oblique and serrated, the largest serratures
being on its posterior half. Sub- and interopercles entire, in the latter is a slight tuberosity at its
superior part. Opercle with two points. Suprascapular lineated and serrated.

Teeth— An external conical row in both jaws, with several bands of villiform ones behind. A
pair of canines at the external margin of each intermaxillary, the outer much the largest. Villiform
teeth on vomer and palate.

Fins— Dorsal spines moderately strong, first slightly more than one-third height of second, which
is a little above three quarters as long as the third, from thence they decrease, the spinous portion
occupies nearly three fourths of the length of the fin. Ventral spine weak. Second anal spine
longest, and much the strongest, being twice as long as the first, and four-fifths longer than the
third. Soft portions of dorsal and anal rather pointed. Caudal truncated and slightly emarginate.
Ventral pointed, first ray prolonged.

Scales— None between or before orbits, two broad rows, separated by several smaller ones, pass
over the shoulders. Above the lateral line the rows are a little irregular, at first parallel to the
back, they subsequently turn upwards to the soft dorsal, beyond which their course is straight.
Below the lateral line the first five rows terminate in it, those below passing horizontally.
Lateral line — In upper fourth of body, parallel with the back.

Colours— Back of a dark reddish brown, which below the lateral line becomes of a didl cherry
red: the bases of the scales darker than their circumference. Pectoral orange, edges of caudal
reddish brown, the other fins greyish brown. A blue line runs along the suborbital ring of bones.
Eye dark red. The young have eight or nine irregular and very narrow vertical white bands on
the body, a reddish orange streak along the margin of the hard dorsal, the ventrals externally
with a broad white margin, and the lower part of the cheeks tinged with golden.

Common ; esteemed for food in Malabar and Pinang, not at Vizagapatam. Grows to upwards
of two feet in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

11

Mesopeion eubellus. Plate II. Fig. 2.
Mesopeion eubellus, Cuv. & Val. ii. p. 475.
? Jahngaeah, Russell, pi. 90.

B. vii. D. \'l P. 1G. V. I A. S;V 0. 17. L. 1. 4(5. L. tr. ,',.

Length of head f, of pectoral £, of caudal T2T, of base of dorsal §, of anal £ of total length.
Height of head §, of body f , of hard dorsal J, of soft dorsal £, of ventral £, of anal £ of total length.

Eyes— Transversely oval, horizontal diameter £, vertical diameter £ of length of head, nearly
2 diameters from end of snout, f of a diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. Preopercle, vertical limb finely
serrated in the whole of its extent, it is slightly emarginate, angle moderately rounded, with three
or four blunt denticulations ; lower limb oblique, entire. Sub- and interoperclcs entire, no protu-
berance on the latter. Opercle with two blunt points, no distinct spines. Suprascapular serrated.

Teeth — An external row of conical teeth in both jaws, smallest in the upper : several bands of
villiform teeth in upper, but not so numerous in lower jaw still existing in its entire length.
Canines in each intermaxillary. Villiform teeth on vomer and palate.

Fins— Dorsal spines moderately strong, the first nearly one-third height of second which is
about one-sixth shorter than the third, the fourth is a little shorter, and they gradually decrease.
Ventral spine weak. Second anal spine much the strongest, twice the length of the first but three-
thirteenths shorter than the third. Pectoral pointed. Anal rather pointed. Caudal truncated,
emarginate.

Scales—In horizontal rows both above and below lateral line.

Colours -Back greyish brown, chest orange, abdomen and sides of a light violet, each scale
tipped with white. Cheeks orange, scales with a white exterior. Hard dorsal greyish, soft dorsal
yellowish grey. Caudal brownish. Pectoral with a tinge of red. Hard portion of anal greyish,
soft portion yellowish grey. Ventrals greyish, with an orange base. Eye silvery with a golden
rim roimd the pupil.

Grows to a large size, and is excellent eating.
Habitat — Seas of India and Bed sea.

Mesopeion Johnii.

Anthias Johnii, Block, t. 318.

Doondiawah, Russell, pi. 97.

Coius catus, Ham. Buch. pp. 90, 369, pi. 38, f. 30.

Mesopeion unimaculatus, Cuv. & Val. ii. p. 441.

Mesopeion Johnii, Cuv. & Val. ii. p. 443 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 13 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 200.

Chembolay, Mai.

B.vii. D. if. P. 16-18. V. i A. f. C. 16-17. L. 1. 48. L. tr. TV

Length of head ^, of pectoral \, of caudal 1, of base of dorsal § , of base of anal | of the total

length. Height of head \, of body f , of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of

the total length.

Eyes— Diameter \ of length of head, more than J a diameter apart, 1 diameter from end oi

snout.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of orbit : in young specimens to its anterior
third ; openings of nostrils wide apart, opposite upper third of orbit, which is close to the profile.
Preorbital with an irregular lower margin. Preopercle, vertical limb finely serrated above, more

c

9.

12 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

coarsely along its concavity, angle rounded, inferior limb nearly horizontal, having from eight to
ten serratures. Sub- and interopercles entire, the latter with a tuberosity, the size of which varies.
Opercle with two fiat spines, the lowest the largest. Suprascapular serrated.

Teeth — Villiform in both jaws, in two or three rows, with an external conical band about
three times the size of the others : two large canines in either intermaxillary : villiform teeth on
vomer and palate.

Fins — First dorsal spine half the height of second, which is two thirds the length of the next,
which is one-thirteenth shorter than the fourth, the highest in the fin, from thence they decrease to
the last ; all the spines are moderately strong. Ventral spine pretty strong. First anal spine rather
strong, two-fifths the length of the second which is the longest and strongest, the third being one-
eleventh shorter. Soft portions of dorsal and anal rounded. Caudal slightly emarginate. Ventral
pointed, first ray prolonged.

Scales— None between or before the eyes. Above the opercle they run upwards and back-
wards to the first six dorsal spines, beyond this they proceed in five horizontal rows parallel to
the back, the superior row terminating at the end of dorsal fin. Below the lateral line the
scales are in horizontal rows, the first three terminating on the lateral line, which passes parallel
to the back.

Colours — Back greenish, abdomen yellowish, a large black finger mark on the lateral line,
between the twenty-second and thirtieth scales, extending to one below, and three above it. Head
and cheeks rather fighter than the rest of the body, and of a golden tinge shot with purple, a
lighter line passes over the broad scales on the shoulder. Along the centre of each row of scales
is a dark mark which is more apparent in some fish than in others ; in the Ganges, at Pinang and
elsewhere it is nearly black, dependant upon the character of the water. In some specimens each
scale is tipped with a metallic golden colour. Dorsal spinous portion grey : soft dorsal, caudal,
ventral, and anal yellowish dashed with red Pectoral yellowish.

Common, grows to five feet in length, and is fair eating.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia, China, Australia, and the Pacific Ocean.

Mesopeion sillaoo. Plate II. Fig. 1.

Mesoprion sillaoo, Cuv. & Vol. ii. p. 476.
Sillaoo, Russell, pi. 100.

B. vii. D. \%. P. 1(3. V. i. A. f. C. 17. L. 1. 50. L. tr. T^.

Length of head f , of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head \, of body f , of hard dorsal -fg, of soft dorsal \, of ventral ^, of anal ^ of
total length.

Bye — Transversely oval, its transverse diameter \, and its vertical \ of length of head, nearly
2 diameters from end of snout, § of a diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. Preopercle, vertical limb widely
but not deeply emarginate in its lower half, where it is finely serrated, angle rounded with about
six very blunt denticulations, lower limb very short and horizontal. Sub- and interopercles
entire, a protuberance in the upper angle of the latter. Oj^ercle with two blunted points, no
distinct spines. Suprascapular veined but entire.

Teeth — An external row of conical teeth in both jaws, with two or three villiform bands in
each intermaxillary and upper jaw, but only a few in the anterior portion of the lower jaw. Large
canines in each intermaxillary. Numerous fine villiform teeth on vomer and palate.

PLATE II

•i"'^>;

Kg 1.

■

Fig -

F.Day, del .rr scujp.

I M K S 11 r U 1 .) N SULAOO, 2.ME S OPKIOH lUBBUCS

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 13

Fins — Dorsal spines not very strong, they occupy above half the length of the base of the
fin, interspinous membrane rather deeply notched. Third and fourth spines the longest, from these
they decrease to the ninth, whilst the last is slightly produced. Ventral spine weak. First anal
spine not quite half the height of second which is slightly the strongest, whilst the third is the
longest.

Scales — None between or before the orbits, an arched very conspicuous double row over
the nape. Those on the body both above and below the lateral line pass horizontally, but opposite
the termination of the soft dorsal the rows become undulating in their course.

Lateral line — Situated in upper fourth of body, parallel to the back.

Colours — Back brownish red, with the base of each scale greyish brown or ash coloured.
Below the lateral line bright deep lake. Each scale rather darker at its base than at its margin.
Cheeks orange scarlet. Under surface of throat and chest scarlet, with a shade of orange. A
bright blue zig-zag line passes along either side of the snout over preorbital and suborbital ring of
bones. Dorsal, hard portion brownish grey : the soft orange scarlet. Anal, hard portion greyish :
the soft scarlet. Pectoral scarlet, deepest at its margin. Eye, bluish grey with a golden red
centre. In the young fish the colours are rather brighter, but they soon fade after death.

Common, grows to a large size, and is excellent eating.

Habitat — Seas of India.

Mesoppjon fulviflamma.

Sci^NA FULVIFLAMMA. Forskal, p. 45.

Mesopeion fulviflamma, Cuv. & Vol. ii. p. 423 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 201.

B. vii. D. t^j. P. 16. V. \. A. §. C. 17. L. 1. 43-50. L tr. TV Ca3c. pylor. 5.

Length of head J, of pectoral \, of caudal £, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal }, of ventrals j^-, of anal ]
of total length.

Eyes— Horizontal diameter ^, and vertical diameter f of length of head, 1 diameter from end
of snout, J a diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the centre of the orbit. Preorbital entire. Preopercle, vertical
limb indistinctly emarginate and finely serrated, angle rounded where the serratures are stronger,
lower Umb oblique and rather coarsely serrated. Sub- and interopercles entire ; no knob on the
latter. Two rather strong but blunt spines to opercle.

Teeth — In jaws villiforrn, with an external larger row, and canines in each intermaxillary.
Villiform teeth on vomer and palate.

Fins — First dorsal spine half the height of second, which is two-thirds that of the third which
is nearly equal with fourth and fifth, from thence they gradually decrease : they are moderately
strong, and the interspinous membrane is deeply notched. Second anal spine slightly longest and
strongest. Ventral pointed. Caudal truncated.

Scales — Above lateral line pass backwards and upwards, below it in horizontal rows.

Colours — Back yellowish olive and in some specimens rose colour, abdomen yellow with
oblique olivaceous lines passing upwards and backwards above the lateral line and longitudinal ones
below it. A black spot on lateral line from twenty-third to twenty-sixth transverse scales. Fins
yellowish. Dorsal tipped with black, pectoral ohve, last half of caudal stained blackish grey.
Eye golden.

Habitat — Eed Sea, and Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and Seychelles.

14 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Mesoprion aurolineatus. Plate III.
Mesoprion aurolineatus, Cuv. § Veil. iii. p. 496.

B. vii. D. T}?Ti. P. 16. V. -J. A. f. C. 17. L. 1. 46. L. tr. T7B.

Length of head ^, of pectoral § , of caudal J, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body ^, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral J, of anal \ of
total length.

Eyes — Situated close to the margin of profile : its diameter f in length of head, upwards of
1 diameter from end of snout, ^ a diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit : openings of nostrils wide
apart opposite its upper fourth. Preorbital entire. Preopercle, vertical limb very slightly
eniarginate, finely serrated, angle rounded where the serratures become coarser, but they diminish
in size as they approach the anterior end of the lower limb, which is slightly oblique. Sub- and
interopercles entire. Opercle with two points. Suprascapular denticulated.

Teeth — An external row of conical teeth in both jaws, with several villiform rows behind :
each intermaxillary crowded with villiform teeth and having two canines, the external of which
is cui'ved and very large in comparison to the size of the fish.

Fins — First dorsal spine half the length of the second, which is one-tenth shorter than the
third, whilst the fourth is slightly the longest, from thence they very gradually decrease to the last,
they are all rather strong. Ventral spine weak. Anal, second spine much the longest and
strongest. Pectoral pointed. Soft portions of dorsal and anal rounded. Caudal slightly emarginate.
Ventral pointed, first ray prolonged.

Scales — Above the lateral bne they pass in an ascending backward series of rows to the
base of the dorsal, beyond the end of that fin they proceed parallel to the back : below the lateral
line the first four rows pass horizontally, and terminate in it, whilst the next five or six pass direct
to the caudal.

Lateral line — Is situated in the upper third of the body parallel to the back.

Colours — Back olive shot with yellow : abdomen yellow with several brilliant, horizontal,
golden lines, which are divided by a darker one running along the centre of each row of scales,
so that each golden one is on part of two rows. A large black finger mark is situated on the
lateral line from the twenty-second to the thirty-first scales, extending for three scales below and
one and a hah' above it. Dorsal and pectoral olive. Caudal and anal olive yellow. Ventrals
golden. Iris golden.

Very rare, has not been taken of a large size.

Habitat — Malabar and Ceylon ; in Sir Emerson Tennent's drawings of the "Fishes of
Ceylon," already referred to, is one a2)parently of this species marked " Taloorvah."

* Mesoprion Madras.
Mesoprion Madras, Cuv. $ Vol. vii. p. 446 ; Giinther, Catcil. i. p. 200.

B. vii. D. \%. A. f. L. 1. 55-60.

Length of head f of total length. Height of body ^ of total length. Diameter of eye f of
length of head. Preopercle finely serrated not emarginate. Interopercle entirely covered with
scales. Spines of dorsal and anal fins rather feeble, fourth dorsal spine longest. Caudal truncated.

Colours — Yellowish red, with reddish brown longitudinal streaks, cheeks reddish, fins yellow.

Attains one foot in length at Mahe, and is good eating.

Habitat — Malabar, Batavia, and the Seychelles.

PLATE III.

F.&qy, iM.f/ sculp.

M ESOPRIOH A r K o I. I X E A TV S

THE FISHES OF MALABAE. 15

Genus AMBASSIS, Cuv. and Val.
Chanda, Ham. Buck.
Bagoda, pt. Bleeker.

Branchiostegals, six : two dorsals, the first with seven spines, the anal with three. A recumbent spine
in front of dorsal fin, pointing forwards. Lower limb of prcopercle with a double denticulated edge.
Opercle without a prominent spine. Body compressed, more or less diaphanous. No canines, but teeth
on vomer and palatine bones. Scales large or moderate, frequently deciduous.

Ambassis Commersonii.
Ambassis Commersonii, Cuv. § Val. ii. p. 176, pi. 25 ; Giinih&r, Gatal. i. p. 223.

B. vi. D. 7 | y}lT. P. 15. V. l. A. f. L. 1. 30-33. L. tr. f2. Vert. TV

Length of head f -, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head \, of body I, of first dorsal -£, of second dorsal --, of ventral \, of anal \ of
total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, neai'ly 1 diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. Nostrils comparatively large.
Preorbital rather strongly denticulated, denticulations passing downwards and slightly back-
wards. Preopercle, vertical limb finely denticulated, inferior limb with its double edge den-
ticulated, the posterior teeth the coarsest with the exception of two or three large ones at the angle
of the anterior edge. Inferior margin of interopercle very finely serrated at its posterior angle : in
young specimens these serratures are only visible with the aid of a magnifying glass. Subopercle
entire. Two or three very blunt and small spinous processes at posterior superior angle of orbit.

Teeth — Villiform, an external series of conical ones, about three times as large as the posterior
rows, exists in both jaws and each intermaxillary. Teeth on vomer and palatines, in a single sharp
series.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, straight, or curved slightly backwards, second the
longest, from whence they decrease to the last. Ventral spine not very strong. First anal spine
two-sevenths of length of the second and third which are equal, but the second spine is at least
twice as broad as the third. First dorsal triangular. Pectoral rather pointed, reaching as far
as first spine of anal. Ventral triangular, it does not extend so far as the anal by the length of
the diameter of the orbit.

Scales — Deciduous. Lateral line at first convex, becoming nearly horizontal opposite pos-
terior third of second dorsal.

Colours — Beautifully silvered with purplish reflections, a bright silvery metallic band of colour
passes from orbit to centre of caudal. Opercle of burnished silver, back slightly greenish ; the
silvery peritoneum is visible through the abdominal walls. In some specimens there is a blackish
mark between the first and second spines of dorsal, and also between the upper part of the second
and third.

Common, grows in Malabar to seven inches in length. Found in fresh and brackish water.

Habitat — Fresh waters and estuaries of the East Indies, sometimes in the sea. Also the Bed
Sea, Mauritius, and the shores of North Australia.

Ambassis nalua.

Ambassis nalua, Cuv. & Val. ii. p. 182 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 225.
Chanda nalua, BucL Ham. pp. 107, 371, pi. 6, f. 36 ; Canto?-, Catal. p. 6.

1G THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

B.vi. D. 7lT-oJ.Tr. P. 15. V.J. A. ^. L. L SO. L. tr. fV

Length of head J, of pectoral § , of caudal \, of base of dorsals \, of base of anal Jj of total
length. Height of head §, of body f , of first dorsal §, of second dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \
of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, rather more than \ a

diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. Nostrils comparatively large.
Preorbital with strong denticulations passing downwards and slightly backwards, and being
largest posteriorly. Preopercle, vertical limb finely denticulated, inferior limb with its double
edge denticulated, the posterior teething the coarsest, with the exception of one large tooth
at the anterior angle. Inferior margin of interopercle strongly denticulated} thus with the
double denticulated edge of the preopercle there are three parallel lines of teeth in this species.
Subopercle entire. One sharp spine directed backwards at posterior superior angle of orbit, and
two or three more along its posterior edge, separated from the first by a notch.

Teeth — Villiform, small, equal, on jaws, vomer, and palatines.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, curved slightly upwards in their external third ; the
second anal spine is also curved slightly forwards. Second spine of first dorsal very slightly the
longest, its last spine half the length of that of the second dorsal. Ventral spine comparatively
long, and reaches close to the first anal spine, whilst its soft rays extend as far as the third anal
spine. First anal spine one-third the length of the second and third, which are equal, the second
being slightly the strongest. First dorsal triangular. Pectoral rather pointed, and reaching as far
as third or fourth anal ray. Ventral triangular. Caudal deeply forked.

Scales — Hardly deciduous. Lateral line convex to opposite termination of second dorsal,
where it becomes horizontal.

Colours — Back greyish green with minute brown points, abdomen silvery, with a silver lon-
gitudinal band, and having pinkish reflections ; opercles silvery, fins greyish, first and second spine
of first dorsal with a blackish anterior margin : fine grey points on fin membrane more especially
between second and third spines. Caudal minutely spotted. Eye silvery.

Does not appear to exceed five inches in length.

Habitat — Eivers and estuaries of Malabar, Bengal and Malaysia.

Ambassis Dussumieei.
Ambassis Dussumieei, Guv. & Veil ii. p. 181, vi. p. 503, ix. p. 431 ; Giinther, i. p. 225.
Chanda Dussumieei, Cantor, Catal. p. 6.

B. vi. D. 7 | g.Vo- p- 15- v- i- A- 9-to- c- 17- L- L 27- L- tr- 1-

Length of head \, of pectoral J, of caudal \, of base of dorsals, f , of base of anal \ of total
.length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal J, of second dorsal J, of ventral \, of anal \ of
total length.

Eyes — Diameter not quite \ of length of head, J a diameter from end of snout, and the same
distance apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of orbit, its extremity being pointed.
Nostrils rather large. Preorbital with six strong denticulations directed downwards and
a little backwards on its anterior margin, whilst its posterior edge next to the orbit is also
serrated. Preopercle, vertical lirnb entire, inferior limb with a double denticulated edge, the
anterior having the largest teeth, the posterior one of which is large and triangular. Sub-

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 17

and intcroperclos ontire. Two strong spines directed backwards at posterior superior angle of
orbit.

Teeth — Villiforni, small, and equal.

Fins — Dorsal spines strong, the second slightly the longest, and very minutely serrated on its
posterior margin, as is also that of the second dorsal : all the spines are transversely striated. Third
anal spine slightly longer, but not quite so strong as second, which is about five times as long as
the first. Ventral spine moderately strong and reaches only half way to base of anal. Fins shaped
as in the last species A. nalua.

Scales — Scales not very deciduous. A row at the base of dorsal and anal rays.

Lateral fine — Passes straight for eleven scales along the third row, is then interrupted and
continued along fifth row to the tail. No ccecal appendages.

Colours — Back and summit of head greenish, minutely dotted with fine black points, fading to
silvery along the sides and abdomen, with a bright silvery line passing from opercle to centre of
tail. Cheeks silvery. Fins transparent with a yellowish tinge, blackish between second and third
dorsal spines, due to numerous fine dots. Caudal with a blackish margin. Iris silvery, upper half
blackish.

Eaten by the Natives. Grows to four inches in length. Not uncommon.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of Malabar, Malaysia, China, the Celebes, Mauritius, and
Seychelles.

Genus THERAPON,. Cuvier.
Pelates, Cuvier.
Datnia, Guv. & Val.

Branchiostegals, sis : pseudobranekife. Eyes of moderate size. One dorsal with twelve, rarely thir-
teen, spines ; interspinous membrane more or less emarginate. Preopercle serrated. Opercle spiniferous.
Teeth villiform in both jaws, sometimes with an external conical series ; deciduous on vomer and palate.
Scales moderate. Air bladder divided by a contraction. Ccecal pylorica in moderate numbers.

Therapon trivittatus.

Keelputa, Bussell, pi. 126.

Coius trivittatus, Ham. Buch. pp. 92, 370.

Therapon puta, Cuv. & Val. iii. p. 131.

Therapon trivittatus, Cantor, Catal. p. 19 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 280.

Keetcha, Mai.

B. vi. D. niP- P- 13-15. \.\. A. g.V C. 17. L. 1. 95-100. L. tr. Jf . Ccec. pylor. 7.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal J, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head ^, of body \, of dorsal spines J, of dorsal rays \, of ventral £, of anal ^

of total length.

Eyes — Transversely oval, horizontal diameter J, vertical diameter \ of length of head, \ a
diameter apart, f of a diameter from end of snout.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit. Preorbital strongly denti-
culated, more especially at its posterior portion. Preopercle, with five strong spines on its
vertical limb, the middle of which is generally the largest, and the two inferior larger than the two
superior ones : lower limb with about ten comparatively fine denticulations. Sub- and inter-

D

18 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

opercles entire. Opercle with two spines, the inferior the longest and strongest, and about equal
to the largest of those of the preopercle.

Teeth Villiform in the jaws, with an external slightly larger row. Vomer without teeth,

except in the very young.

Fins Dorsal spines rather slender, the fourth and fifth equal and the longest, from whence

they decrease to the last but one, the last being a little higher. Ventral spine slender, first soft ray
elongated. Second anal spine twice the length of the first, and the strongest, but a little shorter
than the third : spinous portion, exclusive of the last spine, forming a long triangle. Pectoral
rounded. Ventral pointed. Caudal emarginate.

Scales — None on summit of head, opercle scaled.

Lateral fine — Follows the curve of the back in its upper fourth in rather an irregular course.

Colours — Back dark grey with a greenish tinge, becoming much lighter towards the abdomen,
which is dirty white. Three longitudinal brownish black bands, the inferior passing direct from
the eye, between the two spines of opercle to the centre of caudal : the superior from the back of
the head to the. commencement of soft dorsal, and continued along the last spine and the summit
of the first five rays ; the middle band begins at the posterior superior angle of the orbit, and passes
direct to the soft dorsal, where it is continued on to its seventh and eighth rays. A black mark
extends on the margin of the dorsal interspinous membrane from the third to seventh spines.
Two oblique bands pass across the upper half of caudal, and one — sometimes two — across its lower
lobe. Posterior half of anal, and anterior half of ventral, dull yellow. Iris golden. Pupil broad,
lanceolate, apex in front.

None of the Therapons are esteemed as food. This species is common, and grows to eight
inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Ceylon and Malaysia.

Theeapon seevus.

Therapon seevus, Cuv. & Vol. iii. p, 125, vii. p. 479 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 278.

B. vi. D. 10-11 | jL. P. 13. V. 1 A. f. C. 17. L. 1. 82. L. tr. if. Vert. f°.

Length of head \, of pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body f , of first dorsal T2g, of second dorsal -J-, of ventral J , of anal
jJj- of total length.

Eyes — Transversely oval, horizontal diameter f , vertical § of length of head, ^ a diameter
apart, 1 diameter from end of snout.

Maxilla extends backwards to opposite anterior third of orbit. Preorbital moderately serrated
in the posterior half of its lower margin. Preopercle, vertical linib with about fourteen denticu-
lations, the two at its rounded angle being very much the strongest, in the lower limb they are less
strong and number about eight. In young specimens there are sometimes three conspicuously larger
teeth at the angle, and the comparative size of the denticulations on the lower limb is greater.
Sub- and interopercles entire. Opercle with two spines, the superior small, the inferior large, long
and strong. Suprascapular and coracoid bones toothed.

Teeth — Several rows of villiform in both jaws, with an external conical band. A transverse
narrow band of fine teeth on vomer.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, third and fourth equal and the longest. Ventral spine
weak. Second anal spine the strongest, nearly twice as long as the first, and slightly shorter than
the third. Fins as in the last species.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 19

Scales — Smaller above than below the lateral line, which follows the curve of back in its
upper fourth.

Colours — Back bluish grey, becoming silvery white on the abdomen ; a tinge of gold along
cheeks and snout. On the body three longitudinal dark reddish brown lines, which have a slight
convexity downwards. In a fresh state a fourth lino is occasionally perceived along the abdomen.
The superior commences a little in front of first dorsal, curving downwards it passes in a concave
direction to between the eighth and ninth dorsal spines. The second passes from the occiput, first
downwards as low as the lateral line, subsequently curving upwards it reaches the back at the end
of the soft dorsal. The third commencing at the back of the head, passes as low as the inferior
spine of opercle, and is continued in a curved direction to the centre of caudal. Pectoral trans-
parent. Ventral and anal with a yellow tinge along their centres. Dorsal, hard portion milk-
white, with a very black mark in the upper two-thirds of the interspinous membrane between its
third and sixth spines. A second black mai'k commences at the eighth spine, and is continued
along the whole length of the base of the soft dorsal. Upper margin of first three rays tipped with
black. Caudal with two oblique bands across both lobes. Eye yellowish red.

Common, not esteemed, grows to twelve or thirteen inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India and Ceylon, Red Sea, East Coast of Africa, and North
Coast of Australia.

Theeapon theraps.

Theeapon theraps, Cuv. & Val. iii. p. 129, pi. 53; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 274.

B. vi. D. l§. P. 15. V. l. A. f. C. 17. L. 1. 50-55. L. tr. \%. Vert. \%.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body f , of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal ^0> of ventral ^, of anal ^ of
total length.

Eyes — Diameter ^ length of head, f of a diameter apart, the same distance from end of snout.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit. Preorbital very finely serrated,
and lineated. Preopercle, vertical limb finely and evenly serrated, its angle rounded where the
serratures are larger, along the lower linib they decrease in. size. Sub- and interopercles entire.
Opercle with two spines, the lowest much the largest, but not nearly so great as in the T. servus.
Suprascapular serrated, also the lower portion of the coracoid bone.

Teeth— Several rows of villiform, and an external series of fine even conical ones. Bands
of deciduous villiform teeth on vomer and palate.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, the fourth slightly the longest. Ventral spine pretty
stout, first ray prolonged. Second anal spine the strongest, nearly twice as long as the first, but
rather shorter than the third. Pectoral and ventral rather pointed ; caudal emarginate.

Scales — None between or before the orbits, cheeks scaled, those above lateral line smaller than
those below it.

Lateral line — In upper fourth of body.

Colours — Silvery, with a deep purple gloss along the back, and golden along the abdomen.
Three horizontal dark brown lines pass along the sides, the first from the second to the last dorsal
spine, the second from the nape to the second and third soft dorsal rays, on to which fin it is con-
tinued ; the third line from opposite the eye to the upper third of the tail. Nape of an intense
purple. Dorsal with a jet black mark on the upper two-thirds of the fin membrane between the
third and sixth spines. Soft dorsal, upper portion barred with brown, and a brown bar between

D 2

20 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

its second and fourth rays. Caudal white, with one brown central bar and two oblique ones
across either lobe. Ventral white. Pectoral yellow.

Common, not esteemed as food, grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, China, and South Africa.

Genus PKISTIPOMA, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchiee. Body oblong, compressed. Eyes of moderate size. Mouth
horizontal, not very wide, jaws nearly equal, a central groove below the chin. One dorsal with from eleven to
fourteen spines, anal with three ; vertical fins without scales or only at their bases. Preopercle serrated,
opercle with indistinct points. Villiform teeth in both jaws, no canines. Scales moderate. Air bladder
simple. Pyloric appendages in small number.

Peistipoma hasta.

Lutjanus hasta, Block, t. 246, f. 1.

Peistipoma kaakan, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 244.

Pristipoma commeesonii, Guv. & Vol. v. p. 252 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 72.

Pristipoma hasta, Guv. & Vol. v. p. 247 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 289.

Pristipoma chrysobalion, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 248.

B.vii. D.jf. P- 17. V. \. A. T%. C. 17. L. 1. 47. L. tr. -&.

Length of head f , of pectoral \, of caudal ^-, of base of dorsal f , of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head \, of body ^, of hard dorsal i, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of
total length.

Byes — Transversely oval, horizontal diameter T3ff, vertical diameter \ in length of head,
li_ diameter apart, 1 diameter from end of snout.

Maxilla reaches to beneath the anterior margin of orbit. Preopercle rather deeply emarginate,
serrated in its whole extent, angle rounded, produced, and having the coarsest serratures. Sub-
and interopercles entire. Opercle ending in two rounded points, connected by a crescentic margin.
Preorbital entire. Suprascapular and coracoid bones serrated. A deep groove beneath the centre
of lower jaw.

Teeth — A7illiform in jaws, with an external conical series, also some large ones in each inter-
maxillary.

Fins — Spinous portion of dorsal fin two-thirds of its entire length, fourth spine the longest.
Ventral spine moderately strong. Second anal spine longest and strongest, nearly four times as
long as first, and one-third longer than the third.

Scales — On body opercles, preorbital, and interorbital space : those above the lateral line are
smaller than those below it.

Lateral line — Follows the curve of the back.

Colours — Generally silvered, with a beautiful purplish violet reflection along the whole of the
nape and back. Pre- and suborbital space greenish golden. Opercle with a large black mark on
its most posterior portion. A series of three or four lines of blotches of a dark grey colour exists
along the sides, two above the lateral line, one on it, and one below it, sometimes coalescing
and forming bands, but these marks are generally more apparent in the dry than in the fresh fish.
Fins diaphanous, the dorsal sometimes stained yellow, margined with black, and having two or
three rows of brownish black spots between its spines, which are sometimes extended on to

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 21

the spines themselves : between the fourth and fifth rays they form two short longitudinal lines,
then the lowest ceases but the upper is continued to the termination of tho fin. Caudal stained
with black. Ventral and anal with a reddish golden tinge. Bye with a violet reflection.

Common, does not grow to a large size, is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — From the Red Sea, along the East Coast of Africa, through the seas of India to the
northern shores of Australia.

Pristipoma MACULATUM.

Anthias maculatus, Block, t. 32G. f. 2.

Caripe, Russell, pi. 124.

Pristipoma caripe, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 2G1 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 75.

Pristipoma maculatum, Gunther, Catal. i. p. 273.

Erruttum corah, Mai.

S

B. vii. D. 11. | tt.Lj. P. 17. V. \. A. f. C. 17. L. 1. 52. L. tr. T

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal J, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal ■fa of total
length. Height of head ^, of body J, of hard dorsal ^, of soft dorsal fa, of ventral J, of anal fa
of total length.

Eyes — Close to upper profile, transversely oval, horizontal diameter ^, vertical diameter \ of
length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, §• of a diameter apart.

Maxilla extends to nearly opposite anterior margin of orbit. Preorbital entire. Preopercle,
vertical limb slightly emarginate and finely serrated, angle rounded, with two or three
very inconspicuous serratures, inferior limb entire. Sub- and interopercles entire. Opercle with
two indistinct blunted points. Suprascapular, scapular, and coracoid bones entire.

Teeth — Villiform, with an external conical series in both jaws, not much larger than the
posterior ones.

Fins — Dorsal spines strong, the fourth slightly the longest. Ventral spine weak, first soft
ray prolonged. Second anal spine the strongest, more than three times as long as the first, and
slightly longer than the third. Dorsal interspinous membrane deeply notched. Pectoral pointed.
Caudal emarginate.

Scales — Cover preorbitals, cheeks, and to between the orbits. A long scale at origin of
ventral. Those above lateral line considerably larger than those below it, passing upwards and
backwards from lateral line as far as the end of dorsal, whilst below it they proceed horizontally.

Lateral line — In upper fourth of body, following the curve of back till opposite the end of
dorsal, from whence it passes straight.

Colour — Greyish with a silvery abdomen, and in the monsoon months with a beautiful purplish
tinge on the nape. A vertical black band about eight scales wide passes over the nape and
descending backwards crosses the lateral line terminating about three scales below it. Posterior
to this are six black spots, three above and three below the lateral fine, which do not form
bands, but are slightly united, being placed like squares in a chess board. The first dorsal has a
yellowish buff base, otherwise stained with black, and minutely dotted with grey, and a large black
mark in its centre between the fourth and seventh spines. Soft dorsal yellowish, finely dotted with
grey, and the upper half stained with black. Pectoral, ventral, and caudal yellowish, the last
stained with black. " Over the infraorbitals an oblique blackish band edges the orbit, a second

22 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

from the occiput edges the margin of the preopercle and the opercle," (Cantor). Opercles
bluish. Iris golden.

Common, not esteemed as food, grows to sixteen inches in length.

Habitat — Eed Sea and seas of India to New Guinea.

* Peistipoma dussumieri.
Pristipoma dussumieri, Cuv. & Veil, v. p. 259 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 291.

B. vii. D. |f. A. f . L. 1. 46. L. tr.

6
12*

Length of head f, of pectoral \ of total length. Height of body nearly f of total length.

Eyes — Diameter nearly \ of length of head, rather more than 1 diameter from end of snout.

Maxilla hardly extends as far as anterior margin of orbit, cleft of mouth narrow. Preopercle,
vertical limb emarginate, angle not projecting.

Fins — Dorsal spines strong, interspinous membrane notched, the fourth spine the longest
and three-fourths of length of head. Second anal spine much the longest and strongest. Caudal
truncated.

Colours— Body silvery, slightly tinged with brown on the back, and with six longitudinal
golden lines. The membrane of the spinous dorsal brownish, with a brown spot between
each of the soft rays. The caudal blackish brown. The other fins are of a bright yellow, as is
also the iris : the pectorals are pale.

Grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar Coast.

* Pristipoma guoraka.

Pristipoma guoraka, Guv. & Vol. v. p. 256 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 73.
Guoraka, Russell, pi. 132.

B. vii. D. f|, P. 18. V. \. A. f. C. 17.

Form closely resembles the P. kasta, only slightly more elevated, the vertical limb of the
preopercle more rectangular, and the scales smaller. The second anal spine excessively thick,
striated on its anterior surface, in length rather more than half the vertical diameter of the
body above it, and comparatively shorter than in the P. hasta.

Air vessel elongated, nearly one-third of the total length, swelling in the middle, and
terminating in a point ; the anterior extremity blunt, and appeals to have on each side a pointed
process a little less than one-third of the length of the vessel itself, which is restricted at the
origin of the lateral processes.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back pale blackish olive ; cheeks, opercles and sides
silvery grey, with blue and golden reflections ; abdomen yellowish silvery ; most of the scales
have the edges minutely dotted with brown, and those above the lateral line a pale brown
spot at the root, forming six or seven indistinct parallel lines ; fins pale yellowish ; membrane of
dorsal minutely dotted with brown, between the spines one or two series of large clouded brown
spots, and a single series of smaller between the rays ; margins of dorsal and caudal blackish ;
the membrane of the latter and of the anal slightly dotted with brown. Iris golden. (Cantor.)

Good eating, air vessel very thin, and consequently furnishes isinglass of but little value.
Grows to two feet in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia ; said occasionally to enter fresh water.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 23

Genus, DIAGEAMMA, Cuvier.
Plectoriiynchus, Lacep.

Branchiostegals, sis or seven : pseudobrancbiffl. Body oblong, compressed, with the upper profile of
head parabolic. Eyes of moderate size. Mouth small, horizontal, with lips folded and turned back. Four
or six pores on under surface of lower jaw, but no large groove. One dorsal with from nine to fourteen
spines, anal with three. Preopercle serrated, suborbitals entire. No canine teeth. Scales rather small,
rarely of moderate size. Air bladder simple. Pyloric appendages few.

DlAGRAMMA NIGRUM.

Pristipoma nigrum, Cantor, Catal. p. 74 ; ? Guv. & Vol. v. p. 258 ; Guntlur, Catal. i.

p. 289.
Diagramma affine, Giinther, Catal. i. p. 319.

B.vii. D. \$. P. 16. V. i A. f. C. 17. L.l. 47. L.tr.tf.

Length of head f , of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal }2, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of bead \, of body 1-, of bard dorsal \, of soft dorsal fa, of ventral J, of anal T2T of
total length.

Eyes— Transversely oval, horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter \ of length of bead, 1|
diameter from end of snout, more than 1 diameter apart.

Lips fleshy, folded, and turned back. Snout short, rather elevated. Cleft of mouth horizontal,
rather narrow. Maxilla extending only two-thirds of the distance to the orbit, in young specimens
it goes rather further back. Nostrils approximating, situated close to anterior superior margin of
orbit. Preopercle, vertical Hmb finely serrated, angle rather produced, rounded and denticulated,
also about half the horizontal limb sparingly denticulated. Sub- and interopercles and preorbital
entire. Opercle with two bluntisb spines, the lower of which is the largest and serrated. Supra-
scapular serrated : scapular and coracoid bones entire.

Teeth — Two vilbform bands in either jaw separated by a narrow interspace.

Fins— Dorsal with a scaly sheath, the base of spinous portion two-thirds the entire length of
that of the fin. Spines strong, interspinous membrane deeply notched. The thickness of each
spine varies on the different sides of the body, the fourth the longest. Ventral spine moderately
strong. Anal arises opposite third or fourth dorsal ray, the spines which are very strong have a
scaly sheath at their base, the second much the strongest, more than two and a half times as long
as the first, and one-third longer than the last. Pectoral rounded. Ventral and caudal both

moderately rounded.

Scales— Above lateral Hne passing obliquely upwards and backwards, below it in horizontal

rows : the whole of the head except the snout scaled.

Lateral line— In upper third of body, passing parallel with the back until opposite end of

soft dorsal.

Air bladder large : intestinal canal short, pyloric appendages rather numerous.

Colours— Generally greyish or slate colour, with a golden brassy tint towards the back and
abdomen, and a violet tinge over the bead and remainder of the body, especially about the fore-
head. A few bright coppery spots are irregularly dispersed over some scales, and a coppery tinge
over the bard rays of the dorsal. All the fins of a violet slate colour, stained darker along their
margins, and with a dark band at the base of each, so that the centre is the lightest colour. Throat
and breast white. Eyes silvery, with a copperish dash.

24 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Excellent eating, captured in Malabar about July ; and commonly known as the " Black rock
fish." It grows to two feet and upwards in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia as far as coasts of N. W. Australia.

* DlAGRAMMA GRISEUM.

Diagramma griseum, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 306; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 321.

D12 A3 Vpvt, Ifl
• 2T- -a- 7" vert. 16.

Length of head ^ of total length. Height of head J of total length.
Fins — Second anal spine strong. Caudal truncated.

Colours — Interior of mouth orange : body clear brown or grey. Fins grey, tinged with rose
colour.

Length to eight inches.
Habitat — Malabar.

Genus LOBOTES, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchiffi. Body and fins rather elevated. Eyes rather small, snout blunt,
lower jaw longest, cleft of mouth oblique. One dorsal with twelve, anal with three spines. Preopercle
denticulated. Opercle with obtuse points. No canine teeth : inferior pharyngeal bones separated. Scales
moderate, ctenoid. Air bladder simple. Pyloric appendages few.

LOBOTES SURINAMENSIS.

HOLOCENTRUS SURINAMENSIS, Block, t. 243.
LOBOTES SURINAMENSIS, CuV. & Vol. V. p. 319.

Lobotes Farkharii et L. somnolentus, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 324.
Lobotes erate, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 319 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 80.
Lobotes auctorum, Giinther, Catal. i. p. 338.
Parrandee, Med.

B.vi. D. i^Pig. P. 15-17. V.l A.^. C. 17-18. L. 1. 48. L. tr. ft. Vert, jf.

Length of head f , of pectoral l of caudal \, of base of dorsal £, of base of anal £ of total
length. Height of head \, of body f , of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal fa, of ventral J, of anal 1 of
total length.

Eyes— Situated near upper profile, diameter } of length of head, 1 diameter from end of
snout, nearly 2 diameters apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath anterior third of orbit. Snout elevated. Preorbital entire.
Preopercle, vertical hmb strongly denticulated, the strongest teeth being at the angle, which is
rounded, and slightly produced ; inferior limb nearly horizontal. Sub- and interopercles entire.
Opercle with a blunt point. Suprascapular serrated, scapular entire, coracoid finely serrated.

Teeth — Villiform, with an external conical row.

Fins— Dorsal spines strong, the spinous portion occupies a little more than half the fin,
membrane deeply emarginate, third spine the longest. Ventral spine strong. Third anal spine
one-fifth longer than the second, which is three-tenths longer than the first. Soft portions of
dorsal, anal, pectoral, and caudal fins rounded.

Scales — Above lateral line smaller than those below.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 25

Lateral line — First slightly descends, then ascends and follows the curve of the back.

"Air vessel very large, about one-third of the total length, silvery white, and of a lanceol
shape. It is excessively thin and so firmly adherent to tho back, that but a small portion can
be removed." (Cantor.) The quality of the isinglass made from it is good, but the quantity small.

Colours — The young are more or less of a brassy brown colour, blotched with darker markings,
and having the extremity of the caudal dirty white. The adult is of a slate colour, blotched with
a darker tinge. Pectorals yellowish white. The other fins slate colour, darkest at their margins
except the caudal, the extremity of which, in specimens up to thirteen inches, is of a dirty white.
Iris bluish silvery.

Very good eating, are dried in some places, and good isinglass is obtained from them in small
quantities. They grow to two and a half feet in length. Small ones are common.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China, also the Atlantic Coasts of America from New
York to Surinam.

Genus SCOLOPSIS, Owner.

Brauchiostegals five : pseudobranchias. Form of body oblong. Eyes large. Snout moderate, jaws
equal, cleft of mouth horizontal. One dorsal with ten, anal with three spines : caudal more or less forked.
Infraorbital arch with a spine directed backwards. Preopercle mostly denticulated. Opercle with an
indistinct spine. Scales moderately ctenoid. Air bladder simple. Pyloric appendages few.

SCOLOPSIS JAPONICUS.

Anthias japonicus, Block, t. 325, f. 2.
KuRiTE, Russell, pi. 106.
Scolopsis kate, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 329.
Scolopsis Euppelii, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 332.
Scolopsis kueite, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 331.
Scolopsis japonicus, Giinther, Catal. i. p. 354.

B. vi. D. L°. P. 15. V. l A. f . C. 17. L. 1. 44. L. tr. fV

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal J, of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head f , of body J, of hard dorsal ^, of soft dorsal \, of ventral |, of anal \ of
total length.

Eyes — Transversely oval, horizontal diameter ^, vertical diameter \ of length of head, J a
diameter from end of snout, and the same distance apart.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior fourth of orbit. Infraorbital ring with two prominent
spines, the posterior largest and directed backwards, the anterior elevated and directed forwards,
the plate serrated below. Preopercle sbghtly emarginate, denticulated, with the strongest teeth at
its angle ; lower bmb, horizontal, entire. Sub- and interopercles entire. Opercle with a blunt
point. Shoulder bones entire.

Teeth — In jaws in villiform bands.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, the spinous portion upwards of half the length of the
fin, interspinous membrane moderately notched. Fourth and fifth spines sbghtly the longest.

E

26 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Ventral spine rather weak, first ray prolonged. Second anal spine much the longest, and slightly
stronger than the third. Caudal moderately forked.

Scales — In parallel rows above the lateral line, but passing upwards and backwards below it.
None on snout, pre- or infraorbital bones, but present on cheeks and between orbits.

Lateral line — In upper fourth of body.

Colours — Back of a dull reddish yellow, shot with greenish, the rest of the body orange,
brightest on the abdomen. A bght buff band passes over the back of the head and extends itself
over the opercle. The base of each scale on the body rather darker than its margin. Fins dusky
yellow. Iris yellow.

Grows to eight inches in length.

Habitat — Bed Sea, Seas of India aud China.

Genus DENTEX, Owner.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranckia?. Body compressed, oblong, rather elevated. Eyes moderate.
Cleft of mouth more or less horizontal, jaws nearly equal, usually with strong canines in each. One
dorsal from ten to thirteen spines, anal with three, caudal more or less forked. Preorbital and preopercle
entire, opercle without prominent spine. Scales moderate, ctenoid, more than three rows on preopercle.
Air bladder notched posteriorly. Pyloric appendages few.

* Dentex HASTA.
Dentex hasta, Cuv. & Vol. vi. p. 255 ; Giintlier, Catal. i. p. 373.

B. vi. D. J}. P. 15. V. i A|. C. 17.

Height of body J of total length. Eyes large, central. Mouth slightly protractile.

Teeth — Six strong canines in each jaw, those below weaker than those above, an external
series of large triangular and compressed teeth, with villiforni ones behind.

Colours — Greenish brown on the back, becoming silvery on the abdomen. Ten to twelve
violet lines along the sides. Fins, blue, shot with violet.

Grows to eight inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

Genus SYNAGEIS, Gunther.

Dentex, sp. Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, sis : pseudobranchise. Porm of body elongate : eyes moderate. Jaws nearly equal.
Mouth more or less horizontal. One continuous dorsal with teu feeble spines, anal with three. Caudal
deeply forked. Infraorbital arch entire : preopercle entire, or finely serrated. Opercle without prominent
spine. Canine teeth in upper jaw. Scales of moderate size, ctenoid, with three rows on preopercle.
Swimming bladder notched posteriorly. Pyloric appendages few.

Synageis grammicus. Plate IV.
Synagris grammicus, Day, Proceed. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 14.
B. vi. D. fg. P. 17. V. \. A. f . C. 17. L. 1. 48. L. tr. T%.

I 'I. ATE IV

*

*

7

/' Day, del, (7 sculp

s v x \ r, i: ] s <; u \ M MICl' S

THE FISHES OP MALABAR.

27

Length of head ?„ of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal }, of total
length. Height of head 1, of body \, of hard dorsal fa of soft dorsal ^, of ventral \, of anal ,',,
of total length.

Eyes — Close to profile, and transversely oval, horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter ., in
length of head, § of a diameter from end of snout.

Nape short, profile convex from snout to dorsal. Lower jaw longest.

Maxilla extends as far as to below anterior third of orbit. Preopercle, vertical limb finely
serrated in its lower half, whilst from between each serrature a fine furrow runs forwards and down-
wards ; angle rounded, entire: lower limb horizontal, entire. Sub- and interopercles entire.
Opercle ending in a dull point. Preorbital half the diameter of the eye in width, entire, but fur-
rowed downwards and backwards. Nostrils approximating and close to orbit. Shoulder bones
entire. Three rows of scales between orbit and margin of preopercle, none between or before the
orbits. Three oval facets on under surface of lower jaw, the posterior the largest.

Teeth — An external row of six curved canines in intermaxillaries, with villiform ones behind,
and covering both upper and lower jaws in about five rows.

Fins — Dorsal spines weak, and extending over more than half the base of the fins. Inter-
spinous membrane not notched : second spine one tenth longer than first, and the same amount
shorter than the third, from thence they continue much the same length. Ventral spine weak,
first ray prolonged. Anal spines weak, second one-third longer than the first, but one-twentieth
shorter than the third. There are scaly grooves in which the hard portions of the dorsal and anal,
and also a portion of the rays can be laid flat. Caudal deeply emarginate, the first and second rays
on either side being prolonged. Pectoral pointed, reaching nearly as far as the first ray of anal.

Scales — Large, arranged in horizontal rows, a few extend over the base of the caudal ; they are
rather smaller above than below the lateral Hne, which runs parallel with the back in the upper
fifth of the body.

Colours — Yellowish, with reddish longitudinal lines passing along each row of scales. Upper
portion of head and opercles dull reddish. Throat, chin and chest yellowish, the colours below
the lateral line lighter than those above it. Dorsal fin yellowish, with a grey base and pinkish
exterior. Caudal reddish, stained with grey externally. Anal yellowish with a grey base, and two
reddish stripes along its foremost part. Ventral yellowish with a grey base. Pectoral reddish
yellow. Eyes golden.

Rare. Length 7T2o inches.

Habitat — Cochin on the Malabar Coast.

Genus UPENEOIDES, Bleeher.

Upeneus, sp. Cuv. & Vol.

Branchiostegals, four : pseudobranchiae. Form of body elongate, slightly compressed. Eyes moderate,
lateral. Mouth in front of snout rather small. Hyal apparatus with two long barbels. Fine teeth on
jaws, vomer, and palatine bones. Two dorsals. Scales large and deciduous. Air bladder absent. Stomach
siphonal.

Upeneoides vittatus.

Mullus vittatus, ForsMl, Faun. Arab. p. 31.

E 2

28 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Bandi goolivinda, Russell, pi. 158.
Upeneus vittatus, Guv. & Val. iii. p. 448.
Upeneoides vittatus, GUnther, Catal. i. p. 397.
Cheeeul, Mai.

B. iv. D. 8 | l P. 17. V. l. A. 7. C. 15. L. 1. 38. L. tr. f.

Length of head 4|, of pectoral ft, of caudal ft, of base of first dorsal |, of base of second
dorsal ft, of base of anal ft of total length. Height of head ft, of body ^, of first dorsal ft, of
second dorsal J, of ventral |-, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes-1— Transversely oval, horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter I, in length of head : 1 dia-
meter apart, 1 \ from end of snout.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of orbit. The barbules reach to rather
beyond the posterior margin of the preopercle. Preopercle entire, as are also the sub- and inter-
opercles. Opercle with two very obtuse points separated by a crescentic emargination. Preorbital
entire, its width equalling two-thirds of the diameter of the eye. Three small glandular orifices
on the inferior surface of the lower jaw.

Teeth — Villiform on jaws, vomer, and palatines.

Fins — Dorsal spines weak, interspinous membrane scarcely notched, second spine of first
dorsal the longest. Ventral spine weak, first ray prolonged, an elongated scale at base of fin.
First dorsal triangular. Pectoral pointed. Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Large and deciduous, in horizontal rows, extending in front as far as the snout, and
covering the jaws and opercles, some also on base of caudal.

Lateral line — In upper fourth of body, nearly straight, and in diverging tubes.

Colours — Back and summit of head iron blue, becoming silvery on the cheeks and along the
sides, whilst inferiorly it has a golden tinge. A dark band passes along the superior surface of
the back. A bright metallic golden line commences opposite the upper third of the opercle, and
passes direct to the upper third of the tail. There are two reddish brown lines, the first between
the line on the back and the first golden one, the second dividing the two golden ones, the lowest
of which last proceeds from the pectoral to the lower third of the tail. Ventrals and anal gamboge
yellow. Pectorals silvery. First dorsal tipped with black, and having a horizontal brown line
along its centre, and a lighter one at its base. Second dorsal with a blackish brown margin, a
second brown line running along its centre, and a third smaller one at the posterior part of its
base. Caudal with two horizontal brown lines on either side of its centre, and three oblique bands
running across the upper lobe, and two across the lower one. Eye golden, with a tinge of red.

Common, grows to seven inches in length. Is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — Red Sea, seas of India, Malaysia, and Philippine Islands.

Genus UPENEUS, Bleeker.
Upeneus, sp. Guv. & Val.

Characters as in the Upeneoides, except that in the Upeneus the teeth in both jaws form a single series,
and the palate is edentulous.

Upeneus Indicus.

Mullus Indicus, Shaw, Zool. iv. pt. ii. p. 614.

Eahtee goolivinda, Bus-sell, pi. 157.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. . 29

TrENEUS Russellii, Cuv. & Vol. iii. p. 465.
Upeneus Indicus, Gunther, Catal. i. p. 406.

.B. iv. D. 8 | 9. P. 16. V. I A. i. C. 14. L. 1. 30. L. tr. f.

Barbels reach beyond angle of preopercle. Spaco between the orbits rather flat. Opercle
has two small spinous points. Snout scaleless. Nostrils small, approximating, rather distant from
orbit. Caudal lobed.

Colours — Upper part of head and back dark purple, with some light violet lines. Cheeks
pink variegated with yellow, and tortuous bght blue Unes. A dark spot at corner of mouth. Two
oblong oval spots on lateral line, the first white shot with gold, the second beyond the end of
second dorsal, and of a dark purple, lighter in the centre. Abdomen white, with horizontal golden
lines. Dorsal fins purplish streaked with blue, pectoral pink, anal white and pink with a few
yellowish cross bars, caudal purplish, the membrane between the rays greenish.

Grows to thirteen inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and China.

* Upeneus Malabaeicus.
Upeneus Malabaricus, Guv. & Veil iii. p. 467 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 407.

B. iv. D. 8 | 9. A } — 7. L. 1. 30. L. tr. f .

Head oblong, its barbels extend beyond the angle of the preopercle. Preorbital longer than
wide, and marked with numerous pores. Teeth thin and short.

Colours — Rosy, a pale line traverses the forehead in front of eyes. A large pale or golden
spot on the lateral line opposite the interval between the two dorsals. A round black spot on the
side of the root of the tail.

Length up to six inches.

Habitat — Malabar, Philippine Islands.

Genus CHKYSOPHKYS, Cuvier.

Brancliiostegals, six : pseudobranchire. Body oblong, compressed. Four or six conical or blunt teeth
in front, and three or more series of rounded molars in both jaws. One continuous dorsal with eleven
or twelve spines, which can be received into a groove. Three anal spines. Scales of moderate size,
extending over the cheeks. Air bladder sometimes notched, or with very short appendages. Pyloric
appendages few.

Chkysopheys HASTA.

Spaeus hasta, Bloch, Schn., p. 275.
Coius datnia, Ham. Bucli. pp. 88, 369. pi. 9. f. 39.
Cheysophrys longispinis, Cuv. & Veil vi. p. 116.
Cheysopheys beeda, Guv. & Vol. vi. p. 113.
Chrysophrys hasta, Giinther, Catal. i. p. 490.

B.vi. D.JJ-:-^]. P. 15. V. i. A.**. C. 17. L.1.48. L. tr. $

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal i, of base of dorsal f, of base of anal \ of total

length. Height of head \, of body f, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal j\, of ventral }., of anal 1

of total length.

30 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Eyes — Situated close to profile, diameter f of length of head, f of a diameter apart, rather
more than 1 diameter from end of snout.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. Preopercle furrowed but entire. Sub-
and interopercles entire. Opercle ending in a spine. Suprascapular furrowed. Preorbital entire,
more than twice as long as high, with its lower margin nearly horizontal, and in large specimens
considerably notched to receive the superior extremity of the maxilla. There is a slight protu-
berance above the anterior superior angle of the orbit. Five facets exist on the inferior surface of
the lower jaw.

Teeth — Six sharp curved teeth in the front of both jaws, with numerous molars posterior to
them, above in four or five series, below in three or four rows.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, compressed, broader on one side, fourth spine the
longest ; interspinous membrane deeply notched. Ventral spine weak, equal to fourth dorsal, first ray
prolonged, an elongated scale at the base of the fin. Second anal spine much the strongest, and
above three times the length of the first, and one-seventh longer than the third. Pectoral pointed,
extending on the body to opposite second anal spine, but if the fin is deflected it only reaches to
commencement of anal. The distances between the terminations of the dorsal and anal fins to the
commencement of the caudal are the same, and equal to the length of the base of the anal.

Scales — Moderate extending as far as the orbits, and over the cheeks : on the body they
pass in horizontal rows, and some cover the base of the caudal.

Lateral line — In upper third of body, very slightly curved, and in single tubes.

Colours — Silvery, with a greenish shade along the back. Each scale with its base darker
than its margin. Abdomen, silvery with indistinct horizontal golden lines. Dorsal, caudal and
anal, greyish tipped with black.

Not common in Malabar ; good eating, grows to ten inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, China and Japan.

Chrysophrys calamara.

Calamara, Russell, pi. 92.

Chrysophrys calamara, Guv. & Val. vi. p. 117; Cantor, Catal. p. 48; Giinther,

Catal. i. p. 493.
Aree, Mai.

B. vi. D. lj. P. 15. V. l. C. 17. L. 1. 45. L. tr. fV

Length of head \, of pectoral ■£%, of caudal -^w, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal T2g of total
length. Height of head \, of body ^, of hard dorsal y23, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal T23
of total length.

Eyes — Close to profile, diameter \ of length of head, \\ diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter
apart.

The profile rises very considerably from snout to base of dorsal, the mouth being opposite
the central ray of pectoral, and in the lower fourth of the body. Upper jaw protrusible. The
maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. There is no enlargement, or else a
very slight one, of the anterior margin of the orbit. Pre- sub- and interopercles entire : coracoid
furrowed. Opercle with a small, but rather sharp spine. Preorbital entire, about twice as broad
as high, its lower margin horizontal.

Teeth — Six conical ones in the anterior portion of each jaw, with four rows of molars in
the posterior portion of the lower, and five in the same part of the upper jaw.

TIIE FISHES OF MALABAR. 31

Fins — Spinous portion of dorsal, occupies more than half the hase of the fin, where it can be
received into a groove Spines strong, each alternate one being broadest on the opposite side of
the fin. Interspinous membrane deeply notched. Fourth spine slightly longer than third or fifth,
which are equal in height. Pectoral pointed, fifth ray the longest, and reaching (when the fin is
deflected) to second anal spine, but when resting in its natural position extending to opposite fifth
anal ray. Ventral spine moderately strong, and equalling the fourth dorsal in length, first rny
prolonged. Second anal spine the longest and strongest, being five-sevenths longer than the first,
and nearly the length of the first spine longer than the third ; the spinous portion and first few
rays can be received into a groove at their base. The anal commences opposite first ray of
dorsal, and ends opposite its termination, between this and the commencement of the caudal the
finless portion equals the base of the soft rays of the anal. Caudal rather deeply emarginate.

Scales — Widest from above downwards, placed in horizontal rows, some extending forward
as far as the orbits and over the cheeks, and some covering the base of the soft rays of dorsal,
caudal and anal fins.

Lateral fine — Proceeds backwards and upwards for the first nine scales, then curves downwards
to opposite end of dorsal, from whence it proceeds direct to the caudal on to which fin it is
continued about half its length, curving upwards and crossing the lowest rays of the upper lobe.

Colours— Greyish, the external margin of each scale being marked with a darker tinge.
Abdomen silvery. Fms margined with dark grey, also a fine of the same colour passes along the
centre of the soft portions of the dorsal, and anal. Pectoral dirty yellow. Eyes silvery. Specimens
captured in October appear greyish black, but become brighter after death, and the pectoral is of
a dirty reddish yellow.

Very common in Malabar until July, when it gives place to the Diagramma nigrum, both of
which are known as " Black rock fish," and are excellent eating. The C. Calamara grows to
twelve inches and upwards in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Genus Ch^etodon, Artecli.

Branchiostegals, sis: pseudobranchise. Body much compressed and elevated. Eyes moderate.
Mouth small, with lateral cleft : muzzle short or of moderate length. One dorsal, with the spinous and soft
portions equally developed, none of the spines elongated. Anal with three or four spiues and equally
developed with the soft dorsal. Ventral with one spine and five rays. The vertical fins more or less
covered with scales. Preopercle either entire or finely serrated, no spines. Teeth villiform, none on
palate. Scales large or of moderate size, finely ctenoid or smooth. Lateral line continuous. Air bladder
with horns or two divisions. Intestines with many convolutions. Pyloric appendages in moderate
numbers.

Ch^etodon pr^etextatus.
Chjetodon pr;etextatus, Cantor, Catal. p. 156, pi. 3 ; Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 22.

B.vi. D.^b- R15- Y-h A.20.W C. 17. L.1.20. L. tr. 16.

Length of head f, of pectoral \, of caudal f^, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal 1 of total
length. Height of head \, of body J, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral i, of anal \ of
total lenorth.

32

THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

Eyes — Diameter slightly exceeding ^ of length of head, nearly J diameter from end of snout,
Y of a diameter apart.

Form of body rounded, strongly compressed. Snout rather produced. Mouth small, slightly
protractile. Maxilla extends two-thirds of the distance to orbit. Preorbital with elevated margins,
forming a slight tubercle anteriorly. Preopercle narrow, finely serrated at its angle, lower limb
slightly oblique aud two-thirds the height of the vertical one. Interopercle large, entire, and
produced downwards in a somewhat triangular form. Subopercle entire. Opercle with two obtuse
points, divided by a long but shallow emargination.

Teeth — Slender and close like the hairs of a brush.

Fins — Spinous portion of dorsal occupying just half of the base of the fin, spines broad : inter-
spinous membrane deeply notched. Fifth and sixth spines longest ; central rays of soft portion the
longest. Ventral spine moderately strong, equalling the length of the third dorsal. Third anal spine
strongest, but second slightly the longest. Dorsal fin evenly rounded from commencement of
spines to the last soft ray. Pectoral short. Ventral triangular, first ray produced, with an elon-
gated scale at its base. Soft portion of anal equally rounded with the soft portion of the dorsal.
Caudal nearly straight.

Scales — Large, and deciduous, extending to the snout over the pre- and suborbitals and
opercles. The dorsal is scaled in an oblique arched line, commencing at the root of the third
spine, and continued so that only the points of the three last are visible ; whilst its soft rays, those
of the anal and sometimes the base of the caudal, are likewise scaled. The scales on the anal
begin at the base of the first spine, and are continued in a curved line so that merely the outer
third of the last spine is visible.

Lateral fine — First ascends to the root of the last dorsal spine, then follows the base of the
soft rays.

Colours — Generally brownish olive, each scale with a light citron spot in its centre. One
bluish white band passes in front of the dorsal fin, over the opercle and downwards to the
throat, where it expands. A second band passes across the preorbital, and over the cheek to the
throat, opposite the orbit it gives off another small bluish white band, which passes to the angle of
the mouth, and then downwards to the throat. A bluish white line exists on the forehead, and
passes to the eye, where it is lost. Dorsal and anal fins tinged with reddish violet, the upper fourth
of the soft portion is margined with six bands in the following order from without, white, black,
scarlet, black, pearl white and black, the colours are slightly extended on to the spines. Anal,
tipped with three rows, white, black and scarlet. Caudal, posterior half pearly white, divided by
a black band from a scarlet base. Pectoral diaphanous. Ventral black. Eyes hazel.

Common ha Malabar for about a fortnight in June subsequent to the commencement of the
monsoon. Grows to six inches in length. Cantor observes that it is esteemed at Pinang as food.
Habitat — Malabar, Pinang.

Genus HENIOCHUS, Guv. & Veil.
Taueichthys, Guv. & Veil.

Branchiostegals, five : pseudobranchiae. Body compressed and elevated. One dorsal with from eleven
to thirteen spines, the fourth of which is much elongated and filiform. Vertical fins more or less scaled.
Snout short, or of moderate length. Preopercle entire, or finely serrated. Teeth villiform, none on palate.
Scales of moderate size, finely ctenoid, or smooth. Lateral line continuous. An air bladder. Pyloric
appendages few.

the fishes of malabar. 33

Heniochus macrolepidotus.

Chcetodon macrolepidotus, Artedi, p. 94.

Heniochus acuminatus, Guv. & Vol. vii. p. 98.

Heniochus permutatus, Cuv. & Vol. vii. p. 99.

Heniochus macrolepidotus, Car. & Val. vii. p. 93; Guniher, ( lata! ii. p. 39.

Diphreutes macrolepidotus, Cantor, Catal. p. 159.

PURROAMEE, Mill.

B.v. D. J^f. P. 17. V.f A.^. C.17. L.1.G0. L. tr. &. Vert. j«. Cooc. pylor. G.

Length of head f , of pectoral \, of caudal -}, of base of dorsal -§, of base of anal f of total
length. Height of head \, of body f, of hard dorsal (excluding the fourth spine which equals the
total length) \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Close to profile, diameter slightly more than \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of
snout, -jj- of a diameter apart.

Snout moderately produced, profile rises direct from orbits to dorsal fin. Maxilla extends
half way to anterior margin of orbit, A small protuberance above each orbit, but none on nape
of neck. Preorbital large, entire, with its anterior superior angle elevated. Preopercle, vertical
limb narrow, more than twice as long as inferior one, posterior margin straight and finely serrated,
especially at its angle, horizontal limb straight. Sub- and interopercles entire. Opercle with two
obtuse points widely separated, and connected by a shallow emargination.

Teeth — In jaws villiform, none on palate.

Fins— Dorsal spines moderately strong, they occupy rather more than half the base of the fin, the
fourth filamentous at its extremity, the sixth longer than the third, and the fifth longer than either.
Ventral spine rather strong. Two last anal spines about the same length and strength. Pectoral
rather rounded. Ventral triangular. Anal opposite soft portion of dorsal, and its anterior rays
much the longest. Caudal nearly square at its extremity.

Scales — Longest diameter from above downwards : some cover most of the dorsal and
anal spines, and the soft rays, also the base of the caudal, and are extended on to the snout and
cheeks.

Lateral bne — Curves upwards to upper fourth of body, and opposite the end of the soft dorsal
it takes a straight direction.

Colours — Pearl white with a purplish bar on the summit of the snout, another over the eye,
and a third broad one extending from the dorsal to the abdominal surface, its posterior half includes
the first three dorsal spines and the posterior two-thirds of the opercle, and passing downwards
includes the whole of the ventral fin and extends as far backwards as the anal. The last band
commences at the summit of the fifth dorsal spine, passes downwards to the base of the seventh,
and is as wide as to the first ray ; it then passes downwards over the posterior third of the abdomen,
and includes the posterior half of the anal fin. The soft portions of the dorsal and caudal are of a
bright gamboge colour. Pectoral yellow. Iris gamboge, purplish towards the orbit.

Common, said to grow to eighteen inches in length.

Habitat — From the Mauritius through all the East Indian seas to the N.W. Coast of Australia.

34 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

Genus SCATOPHAGUS, Cuv. and Vol.
Cacodoxus, Cantor.

Brancliiostegals, six ; pseudobranchia?. Body much compressed and elevated. Two dorsals united at
their base, the first with ten or eleven spines, and having anteriorly a recumbent one directed forwards :
the second dorsal covered with scales. Anal with four spines. Snout much compressed and elevated ;
preopercle spineless. Scales very small. Air bladder simple. Pyloric appendages many.

Scatophagies aegus.

Ch^todon aegus, Linn. Gm. p. 1248.

Chitsilloo, Russell, pi. 78.

Ch^etodon paieatalis, Ham. Buch. pp. 122, 372.pl. 16, f. 41.

Ch^etodon ateomaculatus, Bennett, Fishes of Ceylon, pi. 18.

Cacodoxus aegus, Cantor, Catal. p. 163.

Scatophagus aegus, Cuv. & Vol. vii. p. 136 ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 56.

NUTCHAE CHAE, Mai.

B. vi. D. 10 | TV P. 15. V. l. A. TV C. 16. Vert, J£.

Length of head ^, of pectoral ^, of caudal ^, of base of dorsals \, of base of anal J of total
length. Height of head f, of body §, of hard dorsal |, of soft dorsal y, of ventral £, of anal ^ of
total length.

Eyes — Diameter -3- length of head, | diameter from end of snout, 1 J diameters apart.

The body is somewhat quadrangular, strongly compressed, with its upper margin more curved
than its abdominal one. The profile is convex from the snout to above the orbits, then it ascends
at an acute angle to the first dorsal fin, along the base of which it is nearly horizontal. Muzzle
broad, lips do not cover the jaws. Maxilla extends about half way to the orbit. Preorbital half
longer than broad, with the posterior portion of its lower margin finely denticulated. Posterior
nostril oval, close to orbit, and a short distance from the anterior which is rounded. Preopercle
entire, as are also the sub- and interopercles. Opercle ending in a spine.

Teeth — In jaws viiliform, none on the palate.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong with a groove at their base into which they can be
received. The first dorsal occupies three-tenths more of the back than does the second dorsal.
Interspinous membrane deeply notched : fourth spine the highest : anterior rays much the
longest. Ventral spine strong and as long as sixth dorsal, first ray prolonged. Anal opposite
second dorsal, its third spine the strongest, but all about the same length, and can be received
into a groove at their base, anterior rays the longest. Caudal fanshaped, its central rays
slightly the longest. Upper pectoral rays the longest.

Scales — Very minute, covering the soft portions of the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, and
extending over the head and opercles.

Lateral line — Rather wavy in its course, first slightly ascending, then following the
curve of the back as far as the end of second dorsal, from whence it proceeds straight.

Colours — Of a reddish purple, becoming silvery on the abdomen. Large round brownish
spots are scattered over the whole of the body, but most thickly along the back. The cheeks
and snout have bluish reflections. First dorsal brownish blue, having a few minute spots; second

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 35

dorsal yellowish with slight brown markings lief ween the rays, the soft portion of the anal being
similarly coloured. Pectorals and veutrals yellowish. Eyes golden.

The colours depend on the season of the year in which captured, and whether taken in
fresh or salt water. In the monsoon time the back becomes greenish, and the purple colour is
deeper.

Common, grows to one foot in length. Owing to its being reputed to be a very foul feeder,
only the lowest classes will eat it. Bennett states that in Ceylon it is caught on hooks baited
with seaweed " Pendah," of which it is particularly fond.

Habitat — East Indian and Chinese seas, entering the mouths of rivers and backwaters.

Genus EPHIPPUS, Cuvier.
Ilarches, Cantor.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobrancliite. Body much compressed and elevated. Dorsal with eight or
nine spines, receivable into a groove at its base, the third aud sometimes more, are elongated and flexible ;
interspinous membrane deeply notched. Three anal spines. Pectoral short. Snout short, upper profile
parabolic. Preopercle without a spine. No teeth on palate. Scales moderate or small. Air bladder
bifurcated in front, with two horns posteriorly.

Ephippus orbis.

Ch^etodon orbis, Block, t. 202, f. 2.

Ephippus orbis, Cuv. & Vol. vii. p. 127 ; Giintlier, Catal. ii. p. 62.

Ilarches orbis, Cantor, Catal. p. 160.

B. vi. D. 8 | TV P. 19. V. \. A. T%. C. 19. L. r. 35. L. tr. X7S.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsals nearly -|-, of base of anal \, of caudal \ of
total length. Height of head f , of body nearly \, of first dorsal \, of second dorsal \, of ventral
\, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter -|- length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter apart.

The upper profile is much elevated, rising abruptly from the snout to the first dorsal fin : the
abdominal contour is much less convex. The maxilla extends to opposite anterior margin of orbit.
Preopercle narrow, finely denticulated on its vertical linib and at its angle. Sub- and interopercles
entire. Opercle half as wide as long, ending in two obtuse points, connected by a shallow emnr-
gination.

Teeth — Vilhform in jaws, none on palate.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong at their bases; interspinous membrane of first fin deeply
emarginated, but not that between spine of second fin and soft rays. The spines of the first dorsal
can be received into a groove at their base, which is slightly more than two-thirds of the extent
of that of the second dorsal. The third, fourth and fifth spines are elongated and filiform at their
extremities, especially the third spine. The anterior rays of the second dorsal are the longest.
Ventral spine weak but rather long, first ray elongated. Anal opposite soft dorsal, second spine
the longest and strongest, equal to the seventh dorsal in length, the spines can be received into
a groove at their base anterior rays the longest. Pectoral short rounded. Ventral pointed.

f 2

36 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Second dorsal* rounded. Anal longest in front. Caudal slightly produced in the centre, and
somewhat emarginate above and below.

Scales Moderate in size, some over base of caudal and anal rays.

Lateral line First ascends backwards to opposite eighth dorsal spine, from thence it curves

downwards.

C0lours Back and head greyish green, sides and abdomen silvery shot with pink. Fin

membranes diaphanous, finely dotted with black, more especially in their marginal halves. The
rays pale yellow. Iris golden, with some fine black points.

Not common. Eaten but not esteemed. Grows to six inches in length.

Habitat— Seas of India, Malaysia and China.

Genus DREPANE, Guv. and Val.

Haepochieus, Cantor.

Branchiostegals, sis : pseudobranchias. Body much compressed and elevated. Dorsal with eight or
nine spines receivable into a groove at its base, with a concealed spine anteriorly, and directed forwards. In-
terspinous membrane deeply notched. Anal with three spines. Pectoral elongated, falciform. Preopercle
spineless. No teeth on palate. Scales of moderate size. Air bladder prolonged into two horns pos-
teriorly. Pyloric appendages few.

Drepane punctata.

Ch^todon punctatus, Linn. Gmel. p. 1243.

Latte-Terla, A. & B. Russell, pi. 79, 80, 81.

Drepane punctata, Guv. & Val. vii. p. 132. pi. 179; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 62.

Drepane longimana, Guv. & Val. vii. p. 133.

Harpochirus punctatus, Cantor, Catal. p. 162.

Harpochirus longimanus, Cantor, Catal. p. 163.

Piindthee, Mai,

b. vi. d. ^:fi. p. 17. v. i a. t^ts- c- 15- L- L 50- L- tr- M- Coecal pylor- 2"3-

Length of head \, of pectoral rather more than \, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head J, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of

total length.

Eyes— Close to profile, diameter § length of head, § of a diameter apart, 1 from end of snout.

The profile rises abruptly from snout to commencement of dorsal fin, whilst that of the
abdomen is nearly straight. The maxilla extends backwards to opposite the anterior margin of
the orbit, mouth small. Intermaxillaries protrusible. Preorbital very broad, entire. Preopercle
long and narrow, its horizontal limb is denticulated, and only one-third the length of the vertical
one which is entire. Sub- and interopercles entire.

Teeth — Villiform in jaws, none on palate.

Fins — Dorsal spines strong, compressed, pointed, their base equals one-third of that of the
entire fin, having a groove into which they can be partially received : the third spine the longest :
interspinous membrane deeply notched : the rays longer than the spines. Pectoral falciform,

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 37

extending as far as last dorsal rays, and sometimes to root of caudal. Ventral spine moderately
strong, as long as that of fourth dorsal, its first rays prolongod. Anal opposite posterior three-
fourths of dorsal, second spine much the strongest and longest, its spines can be received into a
groove at their base, the length of the rays equals those of the dorsal fin. Central rays of caudal
the longest.

Scales — Extend as far forwards as centre of eye, none on opercles, between the eyes, or on the
snout.

Colours — Silvery with a gloss of bluish violet. Fins yellowish, stained darker at their margins,
about six dark greyish bands pass downwards from the back, in which are several round, brown,
or black spots, none of which descend below the middle of the body. The older the specimens
the more decided the spots, the less marked the stripes. In some old specimens there are no spots.

Not rare in Malabar, or much esteemed as food. Grows to one foot three inches in length.

Habitat — Aden, Seas of India, Malaysia, China, New Holland, New Guinea, N. W. Coast of
Australia.

Genus TOXOTES, Owner.

Branehiostegals, seven : pseudobranehiffi. Body compressed, oblong. One dorsal with five strong
spines, situated on posterior part of the back : anal with three spines, its soft portion and that of the dorsal
scaled. Snout rather produced, lower jaw the longest. Eyes of moderate size. Vfiliform teeth on jaws,
vomer, and palatine bones. Scales cycloid, of moderate size. Air bladder simple. Pyloric appendages in
moderate number.

* TOXOTES JACULATOR.

Sci.ena jaculatrix, Pallas, Spicil. Fas. viii. p. 41.
Corns chatareus, Ham. Buck. pp. 101, 370, pi. 14, £ 34.

Toxotes jaculator, Guv. & Vol, vii. p. 314, pi. 192,- Cantor, Catal. pi. 176; Giin-
ther, Catal. ii. p. 67.

B. vii. D. TT?i3. P. 13-14. V. l A. ig.3^. C. 17. L. 1. 28. L.tr.fzf. Vert. ]£. Coec.
pylor. 7-9.

Length of head ^, of base of dorsal f , of pectoral \ of total length. Height of body a little
more than § of total length.

Eyes — With axis of pupils vertical, diameter § of length of head.

Body irregularly oval and compressed, its greatest width is behind the middle, and it is
more prominent below than above : back rounded, upper surface of skull flattened. Thickness
above pectorals equals more than half its height. The profile is a little oblique from the dorsal
fin to the mouth, and descends in a straight line.

The length of the snout equals the width of the interorbital space, lower jaw slightly the
longest. Maxilla extends to beneath the posterior border of eye. Preorbital, lower border straight,
and finely serrated. Preopercle, horizontal border finely denticulated. Orifices of nostrils close
to anterior superior margin of orbit, the upper oval and larger than the lower which is circular.

Teeth — A straight band of fine sharp and closely set villiform teeth in both jaws, vomer,
palatines, pterygoids, and tongue.

38 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fins — Dorsal spines very strong, the last three the longest and half the height of body, the
second one-third, and the first two-thirds shorter. Interspinous membrane deeply notched, soft
portion covered with small scales, as are also the soft rays of the anal. Caudal with a concave edge.

Scales — Extend over head, larger above than below.

Lateral line — In a single tube at centre of each scale, at first straight and near the back, just
before reaching opposite the dorsal fin it curves downwards to centre of body.

Colours — Vary in different localities, head and back silvery olive green, brown or blackish,
the remainder silvery buff or greyish. Scales with minute brown spots in their centres, thus
forming longitudinal lines. Five large rounded spots along the sides, with a series of smaller
intermediate ones above. Dorsal greyish, minutely dotted with black, with two large oblique
black spots on the soft dorsal, which is margined with black. Caudal bright gamboge yellow,
with a more or less distinct black band, arched backward behind its root. Anal silvery margined
with black. Pectorals and ventrals white, the latter with a large black spot. Iris bright gam-
boge, blackish towards orbit.

Uncommon in Malabar, said to be indifferent food. Grows to one foot in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and Polynesia.

Genus PTEROIS, Gumer.

Brauchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchiae. Head and body compressed, the former armed with spines
on its upper and lateral surfaces. No groove on occiput. One dorsal with twelve or thirteen spines, the
membrane deeply notched. Anal with three spines. The rays generally elongate, free, but branched.
Villiform teeth in jaws and vomer, none on the palatines. Scales moderate or small. Air bladder large.
Pyloric appendages few.

Pteeois volitans.

Gasterosteus volitans, Linn. i. p. 491.

Kodipungi, Russell, pi. 133.

Scorpozna volitans, Bennett, pi. i.

Pterois volitans, Cuv. & Val. iv. p. 352, pi. 88 ; Gimther, Catal. ii. p. 122.

Purrooah, Mai.

B. vii. D. J.Vi. P. 14. V. \. A. f . C. 13. L. r. 90. Ccec. pylor. 3 Vert. {%.

Length of head f , of pectoral §, of caudal £, of base of dorsal \, base of anal \ of total length.
Height of head \s of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral f , of anal \ of total
length.

Eyes — With upper wall of orbit much raised above the line of the profile, diameter f of
length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter from the summit of one super-
orbital ridge to that of the opposite one.

Profile convex over snout, from nostrils to base of dorsal nearly straight, but the upper
margin of the orbit projects considerably above it.

Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior, margin of the orbit. Symphysis of lower jaw projects

Till: FISHES OF MALABAR. 39

a little downwards. Intermaxillarics notched in centre and protrusible. Prcorbital broad, rather
elevated in front, and roughened by ridges and grooves which radiate from its centre. Preopercle
with two strong spines (the upper the largest) on its vertical limb, a third less strong on its angle,
and one — sometimes two — indistinct points on its obbque lower limb. A spiny ridge from angle
of preopercle to preorbital. Opercle ending in a soft point. Sub- and hiteropercles entire. A
short sharp spine close above the anterior opening of the nostrils. A blunt spine on posterior
superior angle of orbit. Two sharp blade-like flattened spines on either side of occiput. Scapular
spiny : coracoid entire. Above the centre of the orbit is a long fleshy filament two-thirds
the diameter of the eye; other shorter but broader ones arise as follows, one from below the nasal
spine, one from each intermaxillary, two from preorbital, three from lower limb of preopercle. Two
orifices of nostrils wide apart, in front of centre of orbit.

Teeth — Fine, vilhform, on jaws and vomer.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, and extend over more than two-thirds of the base of
the fin, membrane only existing just at the posterior margin of each spine, and notched almost to
its base : rays branched into two. Pectorals elongated so as to extend a short distance beyond
the base of the caudal, the membrane between the rays deeply notched, covering both sides of the
ninth or tenth, but the under side only of those above, and the upper side of those below : none
of the rays branched. Ventral spine weak, rays branched, elongated, and the membrane deeply
notched, being least so between sixth and seventh rays. Anal spines weak, the third the longest :
rays branched, membrane not deeply cleft. Caudal, central rays longest, branched, membrane
moderately cleft.

Scales — Small, and covering the cheeks and head, except the snout and interopercle.

Lateral fine — Tubular in each scale and situated in upper fourth of body.

Colours — Generally of a fawn colour, with vertical bands of reddish brown, the outer portion
of which is the darkest. The first dark band on the body commences opposite the second dorsal
spine : the second opposite the fourth : the third opposite the sixth : the second and third bands
coalesce a bttle below the lateral line. The fourth commences opposite the tenth spine : the fifth
opposite the second and third rays, passing down to first anal ray. Another dark band passes mid-
way between the termination of the dorsal and the commencement of the caudal, whilst an eighth
exists at the base of the caudal fin : between all these dark bands there are lighter ones. The
head is also striped hke the body, one dark band passes from the anterior portion of the orbit to
the middle of the upper jaw, a second from the centre of the orbit over the cheek to the anterior
termination of the inferior limb of preopercle : a third from the posterior margin of the orbit to
the angle of preopercle : whilst the last broad stripe commences at the anterior spine at the side
of the occiput, and passing over the opercle ends in the upper part of the base of the pectoral fin.
Besides these there are numerous narrower and lighter intermediate bands. All the filaments have
dark centres and brownish margins. Dorsal spines leaden colour with whitish markings, rays
white spotted with black, and some black markings opposite the vertical dark bands already
described. Caudal and anal whitish spotted with black, the latter marked with the continuation
of the two dark bands that go to its base. Pectoral slate colour, irregularly barred with white :
one small round white spot on the body just above the base of the pectoral. Ventrals slate colour,
with brown and white markings.

It is not uncommon. Grows to nine inches in length ; is said to be eaten.

Habitat — From eastern coasts of Africa, through the Indian, to the Australian seas.

40 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Pteeois MILES.

Scoep^ena miles, Bennett, pi. 9.

Pteeois mueicata, Guv. & Vol. iv. p. 363.

Pteeois miles, Cantor, Catal. p. 42; Gunther, Catal. ii. pp. 125, 521.

B.vii. D.ift*. P. 12. V.l A.f C. 14. Vert. if.

Length of head ¥, of pectorals J, of caudal f , of base of dorsal J, of base of anal y1^ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal §, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of
total length.

Eyes — The upper margin of orbit somewhat raised above the profile, its diameter \ the length
of the head, 1 \ diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Profile very slightly convex over snout, straight from thence to dorsal, but the upper margin
of the orbit projects slightly, and the spines on the side of the occiput very much above it.

Mouth horizontal, the maxilla does not reach as far as the anterior margin of the orbit.
Symphysis of lower jaw projects a little downwards. Intermaxillaries deeply notched in centre,
and protrusible. Preorbitals broad, rather elevated in front, and roughened by ridges and grooves
which radiate from their centres. Preopercle with two strong spines on the vertical limb, the upper
being the largest : a third, less strong on its angle. Lower limb nearly horizontal, entire. Sub-
and interopercles entire. Opercle with a blunt spinous extremity. Between and internal to the
two nasal orifices is a sharp spine directed upwards and backwards, there are also some rugosities
along the upper margin of the orbit which in old specimens become spiniferous, and one large
spine at the posterior superior angle of the orbit. The temporal ridge, commencing about the
centre of the posterior margin of the orbit, is spiny in the whole of its course towards the lateral
line. The interorbital space is shallow and rather concave from side to side, a deep groove con-
tinued anteriorly as far as the intermaxillary bones, runs down its centre, whilst posteriorly it expands
over the occiput, where it is bordered on either side by an outwardly curved blade-like crest,
flattened from side to side, and terminates in its posterior superior part in two large flat
spines, which in old specimens become several badly developed spines. A spiny ridge proceeds
from the preorbital over the cheeks to the angle of the preopercle ; in old subjects it becomes
very ru°yed, the single row of spines is augmented into two or three lesser ones, while its width
is much increased. At the centre of the upper margin of the orbit arises a fleshy filament half the
diameter of the eye in length, but which in old subjects appears to become still shorter : there is
generally another at the angle of the mouth, and some others along the inferior margin of the
preorbital and preopercle.

Teeth — In jaws and vomer villiform.

Fins — Dorsal spines pretty strong and extend over more than two-thirds of the base of the
fin, the membrane merely connects them close to their origin, whilst the rays are connected at
their summits, and are only divided into two branches, the third spine is equal to the highest. In
the pectorals the membrane is extended as in the P. volitans, and the other fins resemble those of
that fish.

Scales — Small.

Lateral line — In upper fourth of body.

Colours — Brilliant scarlet, the bars darker, but distributed as in the last species, rays of
dorsal, anal, and caudal unspotted. In fact an old Pterois volitans and a young P. miles are still
desiderata.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 41

Not uncommon in Malabar, whero it arrives about tho commencement of the monsoon. From
one, 21 specimens of tho Athcrina Forskulii were taken, so gorged was it, — its entire length being
only 11^ inches, — that the tail of ono was protruding from its mouth. Not esteemed for eating.
Length from eleven to twelve inches.

Habitat. — Red Sea, and seas of India.

Genus TETRAROGE.
Apistus, sp. Cuv. & Vol.

Branchiostegals, from five to seven : pseudobranchise. Head and body compressed, naked or with
rudimentary scales. One dorsal with from seven to seventeen spines : no pectoral appendage. Preorbital
and preopercle armed. Teeth in jaws, vomer, and generally on the palatines. No cleft behind the fourth
gill. Air bladder present. Pyloric appendages few.

* Tetraroge Belengerii.
Apistus Belengerii, Cuv. & Vol. iv. p. 412.

D. L2. R 13. v. i. A. f. C. 11.

Body elevated in the centre where its height equals one-third of its length. Profile oblique,
the mouth descending posteriorly. Preorbital spine hardly extends as far as the centre of the
orbit, with a small one in front of its base. Preopercular spine nearly equals that of preorbital, and
is directed backwards ; two very short ones exist on the lower limb. Opercle ends in three points.

Fins — The first dorsal spine arises opposite the posterior border of the orbit, and is nearly
as high as the second. The interspinous membrane beyond the fifth spine is deeply cleft. Between
the last dorsal ray and the caudal there is an interval. Caudal cut square, and is comprised four
and a-half times in the total length. Pectorals slightly longer, ventrals rather less.

Scales — Very small.

Lateral fine — Parallel with the back, and marked by elevations which appear like little points
lying in the mucus.

Colours — Grey, finely dotted with brown, except the chest and abdomen, which are whitish.
The fins are the same colour as the body, and there is a black spot on the dorsal from the fifth to
the eighth spine.

Grows to two and a quarter inches in length.

Habitat — Mahe in Malabar.

Genus PROSOPODASYS, Cantor.

Apistus, sp. Cuv. & Vol.
Prosopodasys, Cantor.

Branchiostegals, five to seven : pseudobranchiffi. Head and body more or less compressed, naked, or
with minute rudimentary scales. Three anterior dorsal spines divided from the others by a deep notch.

42 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

The second dorsal with from nine to twelve, the anal with three spines. No pectoral appendages. Pre-
orbital and preopercle armed. Villiform teeth on jaws, vomer, and usually on the palatines. No cleft
behind the fourth gill.

PROSOPODASYS DRACAENA.

Apistus drac^na, Cuv. & Vol. iv. p. 403.
Prosopodasys draoena, Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 140.

B.vii. D.3|f. P. 13. V.l. A.f. C. 12.

Length of head more than \, of pectoral above \, of caudal \, of base of dorsals \, of base of
anal \ of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal \, of second dorsal \, of ventral \,
of anal \ of total length.

Eyes. Diameter slightly above \ the length of head, rather above \ a diameter from end of

snout, f of a diameter apart.

The maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. Lower jaw longest, with a
tubercle at its symphysis. Intermaxillaries slightly protrusible, and notched in their centre. Pre-
orbital with a strong spine, directed backwards, three quarters of the diameter of the orbit in
length. Preopercle with a long spine the length of the orbit, directed backwards, and four dull
points formed by an equal number of concave emarginations on its angle, and one on its inferior
limb. Opercle ending in two spines. A concave channel along the summit of the head, between

the eyes.

Teeth — Villiform in jaws, vomer, and palate.

Fins Dorsal spines sharp but slender, the first arises over the centre of the orbit, the inter-

spinous membrane is deeply notched, the second spine the longest, but all three are longer than
the spines of the second dorsal, the membrane of which is deeply notched, and the rays are
branched. Pectoral reaches to fourth dorsal ray. Ventral spine strong, slightly longer than second
dorsal spine, rays branched. Third anal spine longest, rays branched. Central caudal rays slightly
the longest.

Lateral line — In upper fourth of body.

Colours— Greyish brown along the back, and pinkish along the chest and abdomen. The
whole of the body, dorsal, pectoral, ventral, and anal fins more or less dotted with brown. The
caudal immaculate. A large black blotch between the third and sixth spines of the second dorsal.

Grows to three inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of Malabar.

Genus MINOUS, Cuv. and Vol.
Corythobatus, Cantor.

Branchiostegals, six to seven : pseudobranchise. Head and body compressed, scaleless. Several bones
of head, especially preorbital, armed. One dorsal with from nine to eleven spines. Anal with from one to
three spines. Pectoral rather large, with one appendage. Villiform teeth on jaws and vomer, none on
palate. Air bladder present. Pyloric appendages few.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 43

MlNOUS MONODACTYLUS.
SCORP^ENA MONODACTYLA, Bl. Schl. p. 194.

Worraii minoo, Russell, pi. 159.

Minous woora, Guv. & Val. iv. p. 421.

Minous monodactylus, Guv. & Val. iv. p. 424, pi. 59, f. 2 ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 148.

Corytiiobatus woora, Cantor, Catal. p. 45.

B. vii. D. T%y. P. 11. V. l A. 9-11. CIO.

Length of head J, of pectoral f , of caudal \, of base of dorsal J of total length. Height of
head \, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter f of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

The macxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of orbit. Intermaxillary rather deeply
notched. Lower jaw with tubercle at symphysis. Spinous elevations over nostrils. Smooth ridges
radiating from a common centre on the suborbital ring of bones. A strong spine on preorbital
equal to the diameter of the eye. Preopercle with a strong spine, at angle three others shorter
and blunter, and one more on its lower hmb. Temporal and occipital ridges spinous; three
moderate sized spines at anterior superior margin of orbit, superciliary ridge rough, nodulated,
or spinous.

Teeth — Villiform on jaws and vomer : none on palatines.

Fins — Dorsal spines moderately strong, first spine situated over vertical limb of preopercle,
interspinous membrane deeply cleft. Pectoral rather large, extending to the commencement of
soft dorsal. One pectoral appendage, nearly the length of the fin, which in dried specimens often
separates into two. Caudal rays undivided, membrane notched.

Scales — None.

Colours — Head greyish brown above, sides and abdomen rather lighter. Dorsal fin light
brown, with the external margins of spines and outer half of rays deep black. Anal buff, external
half black. Pectoral black, appendage white. Caudal buff coloured, with three vertical dark
brown bars. Iris grey, minutely dotted with brown.

Common in Malabar, grows to four or five inches in length. Is not esteemed as food.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus PLATYCEPHALUS, Bl. Schn.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchias. Head broad, depressed, more or less armed with spines,
body sub cylindrical posteriorly. Eyes superior or lateral. Cleft of mouth wide. Two dorsals, with a
small isolated spine in front of first. Anal equally developed to soft dorsal. Ventrals thoracic. No
pectoral appendage. Villiform teeth in jaws, vomer, and palatines, sometimes with larger ones intermingled.
Body scaled. Lateral fine present, spined in some species. No air bladder. Pyloric appendages in
moderate number.

• Platycephalus INSIDIATOR.

COTTUS INSIDIATOR, ForsMl, p. 25.

G 2

44 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

Platycephalus insidiator, Guv. & Vol. iv. p. 227 ; Cantor, p. 37 ; Giinther, ii. p. 177.

Irrwa, Bussell, pi. 46.

Calliomorus chaca, Ham. Bach., pp. 133, 373.

Platycephalus chacca, Gray, 111. Indian Zool. ii. pi. 93, f. 2.

B. vii. D. 1 | 7 | 13. P. 17. V. i. A. 13. C. 15. L. r. 94 L. fcr. J| .

Length of head nearly J, of pectoral \, of caudal \ , of base of first dorsal \, of base of second
dorsal -fa, of base of anal t3q of total length. Height of head -j^, of body \, of first dorsal \, of
second dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal jVj of total length.

Eyes — Diameter -^ of length of head, \\ diameters apart, 2 diameters from end of snout.

Head strongly compressed and flattened above, its superior surface being almost triangular,
the base of which is between the spines of the preopercle, and its apex at the snout. Width of
head between preopercular spines is three-fourths of its length. The body subcylindrical.

Lower jaw slightly the longest, the maxilla extends to beneath the centre of orbit. Inter-
obital space flat, or slightly concave from side to side, eyes on the upper surface of the head, which
has two spiniferous ridges extending backwards, one internal, which bifurcates over the occiput :
the second or temporal from the posterior margin of the orbit terminates at the suprascapular in
two flattened blade-like spines. One small sharp spine at the anterior superior angle of the orbit,
no spines at nostrils. Preorbital with three raised grooves starting in a stellated form from a
common centre. Intermaxillary bones protrusible. Preopercle with most of its surface forming a
portion of the flattened upper plane of the head, and having two very strong spines at its angle,
the inferior of which is the largest and equals the diameter of the eye. Opercle forming a por-
tion of the flattened upper surface of the head, and having two minute spines.

Teeth — Numerous, and fine in the upper jaw, and a large triangular toothed space at the
internal extremity of each intermaxillary, where some larger teeth are intermingled with villiform
ones. Three rows of sharp teeth in lower jaw. A convex band of sharp teeth on vomer, and a
single series in the palate.

Fins — First dorsal triangular, spines weak, the first slightly the longest, interspinous mem-
brane very slightly emarginate. A small, stout, single spine before the first dorsal, and sometimes
another fine one between it and second dorsal. Origin of pectoral partially hidden by the opercle,
whilst it covers the commencement of the ventral, which extends to below the third ray of second
dorsal. Caudal emarginate, lower lobe the longest. No swimming bladder.

Scales — Small, ctenoid, extending in front to between the orbits, and over the opercular
pieces.

Lateral line — Smooth.

Colours — Dirty brown above, and dirty white below, the darker colours being sometimes
banded on the head and body, and having a yellowish tinge. Pectoral greyish brown, spotted
with dark brown, more especially at its base. Dorsal, ventral, and anal diaphanous, spotted with
light brown. Caudal bright yellow, spotted with brown, which is most apparent at its base, and
having a deep black band bordered with pure white, crossing obliquely the posterior third of the
upper lobe of caudal, whilst another very deep black band bordered with white extends along
the whole of the outer side of the lower lobe, between these two bands are one or two lighter
ones variously disposed in different individuals.

Known as the " Crocodile Fish" in Malabar: as wounds from its spines are dreaded, it is

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 45

immediately on being captured knocked on the head. Is eaten by the Natives. Said to grow to
eighteen inches in length.

Habitat— Bed Sea to the coast of South Africa, and through all the Indian seas to N. W.
AustraUa.

•

PLATYCErilALUS MALABARICUS.

Platycefiialus Malabaricus, Guv. & Vul. iv. p. 245 ; Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 181.
Platycephalus carbunculus, Cav. & Val. ix. p. 401 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 39.

B. vii. D. 1 | 8 | 11-12. P. 19. V. i. A. 12. C. 15. L. r. 85. L. tr.

Length of head f , of pectoral j2^, of caudal T2g, of base of first dorsal fy, of base of second
dorsal \, of base of anal x2j of total length. Height of head ^T, of body ^, of first dorsal T2^, of
second dorsal yj, of ventral ^, of anal j1^ of total length.

Eyes — Situated on the upper and outer surface of the head, their superior margins forming a
portion of its upper surface. Horizontal diameter ^, vertical diameter | of length of head, ^ a
diameter apart, lh from end of snout.

Body subcylindrical ; head depressed and flattened, but not nearly so much as in the last
species.

Lower jaw longest ; the maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of orbit. Interorbital
space slightly concave from side to side. At the anterior superior angle of the orbit a sharp spine
exists, and five more directed backwards, are placed along the superciliary ridge, which is conti-
nued over the occiput, and has a sharp spine about its centre. From the upper third of the posterior
margin of the orbit commences the temporal ridge, which contains five or six spines ; and at the
suprascapular it terminates in two broad flattened spines. Nostrils rather wide apart, not defended
by spines. Preorbital large, rather rugose. Intermaxillaries protrusible. Two sharp spines at
lower margin of orbit, directed backwards, from the posterior of which runs a crest to the angle
of the preopercle, where there are two strong spines, the largest and superior of which equals half
the diameter of the eye, is directed backwards, and has a small spinous projection at its base ; the
lowest is directed backwards and downwards. Opercle with two spines, not very wide apart, the
lower being the termination of a smooth ridge.

Teeth — Vflliform on each intermaxillary, also on vomer, and palate.

Fins — As in the last sjDecies, except that the interspinous membrane of first dorsal is more
deeply emarginate, and the caudal is nearly square.

Scales — Small, ctenoid, extending as far forwards as the orbits, and over opercles.

Lateral line — Smooth and a little above the central half of the body.

Colours — Greenish buff; head, cheeks, and sides spotted with blackish brown, and sometimes
having numerous black points intermingled. Irregular dark bands on head and body. Throat
and abdomen dirty white. First dorsal diaphanous, upper half blackish. Second dorsal, pectoral,
ventral, and caudal dirty white, the rays spotted with brown. Posterior half of caudal blackish,
with sometimes two or three vertical wavy white lines. Anal white, with some brown spots at its
external margin. Iris greenish golden, spotted with brown.

Common in Malabar, along with the last ; grows to eleven inches in length. Is eaten by the
Natives.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

46 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

* Platycephalus SUPPOSITUS.

Platycephalus scaber, Guv. & Vol. iv. p. 249.

Platycephalus suppositus, Trosch, Wiegm.[Arch. 1840, p. 269 ; Gunther, Catal. ii.
p. 187.

B. vi. D. 1 | 8 | 12. P. 22. V. i. A. 12. C. 18.

Length of head T3g in its total : width between preopercular spines f in length of head.
Second dorsal spine ys ^ *na* °^ nead- Each nostril is defended by a small spine, there is
one also before the orbit, and five or six on the superciliary ridge ; four larger ones on its con-
tinuation, which is prolonged posteriorly. There are four spines on the temporal ridge, which
extends from the eye to the suprascapular, and five or six on a ridge which passes from the pre-
orbital to the angle of the preopercle, the superior of which is three or four times larger than
the one below it, and equals its distance from the orbit, beneath which is a third still shorter,
having a very small one at its base. Interorbital space slightly concave, and its width equals
the diameter of the orbits. Opercle with two widely separated spines, the inferior of which is
situated at the end of a ridge which traverses the length of that bone.

Eyes — Smaller and less approximating than in the P. insidiator.

Scales — Those on opercular pieces and back of head have a small projection in their centres.

Lateral line — Armed with from 44 to 50 small pointed spines directed backwards, like those
on the head ; it is nearer the back than in the P. insidiator.

Colours — Reddish grey above, whitish beneath. First dorsal with a black band. Second
dorsal, caudal, and pectoral spotted with brown on a pale ground j posterior half of caudal black,
end of ventral blackish, pectorals deeply spotted with brown, anal white.

Habitat — Indian seas.

Genus ANEMA, Gunther.

Ukanoscopus, sp. Guv. & Vol.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchiae. Body elongate, low. One dorsal, the spinous portion having
its base shorter than that of the soft. Anal developed equally to soft dorsal. Ventral jugular. Pectoral
rays hranched. Cleft of mouth vertical. Eye on upper side of head. Villiform teeth on jaws, vomer, and
palatines. No filament helow or before the tongue, or a superior opening of the gills as in the genus
Uranoscopus. Some of the bones of the head armed. Infraorbital ring does not articulate with the pre-
opercle. Body covered wTith very fine scales. Ah bladder none. Pyloric appendages in moderate numbers.

* Anema INERME.

Uranoscopus inermis, Guv. & Veil. iii. p. 310, pi. 65.
Anema inerme, Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 230.

B. vi. D. T|;fg. P. 18. V. \. A.16-19. 0.11. Ccec. pylor. 8.
Length of head 3f in total.

Surface of head with irregular or radiating granulated lines. Preorbital large, its anterior
border divided into three lobes. Preopercle large, entire, finely granulated, and radiated in its

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 47

inferior portion. Operclo radiated below, finely granulated or vermiculated over the rest of its
surface, its posterior superior border fringed. Spine on shoulder small and flat. No spine on
sub- or preopercles. Posterior margin of occipital straight, unnotched. Posterior orifice of ni «1 ill
long, and with a fringed border, anterior round.

Teeth — In upper jaw villiform : strong, crooked, and rather distant apart in the lower jaw.

Scales — Small, and in oblique lines.

Colours — Brownish in spirit, with large oval spots forming two series on either side, and
three in front : those in the same rows sometimes coalescing and forming bands. Below the lateral
line of a whitish colour. Dorsal with two series of spots as on the back. Pectoral whitish, with
a brown transverse band across its centre, and also a spot near its base. Caudal whitish with a
laro-e irre<nilar brownish transverse band. Ventral and anal whitish. When fresh the colours are
said to be reddish and the spots orange.

Not eatable, grows to two feet in length.

Habitat — Seas of India.

Genus SILLAGO, Cuv.

Branchiostegals, sis : pseudohranchise. Body elongate, somewhat cylindrical. Head rather pointed.
Two dorsals, the first with from nine to twelve spines, the spinous portion with its base shorter than that of
the soft. Anal developed like soft dorsal. Ventral thoracic, one spine and five rays, the lower of which
are branched. Cleft of mouth small, upper jaw slightly the longest. Eyes lateral. Gill opening wide.
Villiform teeth in jaws and vomer, none on palate. Preopercle denticulated : opercle ending in a point.
Bones of head with a developed muciferous system. Infraorbital ring of bones do not articulate with
preopercle. Body scaled, scales ctenoid. Air bladder simple. Pyloric appendages few.

SlLLAGO S1HAMA.

Atherina sihama, Forsk., p. 70.
Soring, Russell, pi. 113.
Sillago acuta, Cuv. & Val. iii. p. 400.
Sillago erythema, Cuv. & Val. iii. p. 409.
Sillago malabarica, Cantor, Catal. p. 21.
Sillago sihama, Gitnther, Catal. ii. p. 243.
Cudeerah, Mai.

B.vi. D. 10-11 | 20 W P-15-16- v-i- A-22-W c-17- L.1.74. L.tr.f^.

Length of head T35, of pectoral |, of caudal £, of base of first dorsal £, of base of second
dorsal f , of base of anal ^ of total length. Height of head J, of body ^, of first dorsal &, of
second dorsal ^T, of ventral £, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes— Oval, upper margin close to profile, horizontal diameter §, vertical diameter £ of
length of head, 2 diameters from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Head cone-shaped, ending in an obtuse point where the mouth is situated, the snout being
long. Body most compressed at its posterior third.

48 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Upper jaw the longest, and in front forming a semicircle, the maxilla extends nearly half as far
as the anterior margin of orbit. Mouth small, upper jaw moderately protrusible. A large pore
under symphysis of lower jaw. Interorbital space flat or slightly convex, covered with small scales,
which do not extend over snout. Nostrils approximating and near to anterior superior angle of
orbit. Posterior limb of preopercle vertical, and only half as long as the inferior horizontal lirnb
which is covered by a row of large scales, angle rounded, its upper half crenated. Opercle with
a short sharp spine. Shoulder bones unarmed.

Teeth — Villiform and numerous in both upper and lower jaws, and vomer, where they form a
crescentic band.

Fins — Ventrals attached a little further back than the pectorals ; first dorsal arises opposite
centre of pectoral : anal opposite second ray of second dorsal. Spines of first dorsal weak, the first
three about equal in length, and one third longer than the fourth, from thence they gradually
decrease : interspinous membrane slightly emarginate. The first soft ray in second dorsal equals
the fourth spine of the first dorsal, from this they gradually decrease. Ventral spine weak, first ray
prolonged. Pectoral rounded. Caudal slightly crescentic.

Scales — Rough on their free border, their longest diameter from above downwards, equal to
about twice their transverse length. They are placed in oblique rows on the body. Anteriorly
they extend to between the orbits, and cover the suborbital ring, and pieces of opercle. Each
spine in the fins has a very fine row of scales behind it, some exist on the pectoral fin, and over
the base of the caudal.

Lateral line — First curves slightly upwards to upper fourth of body, then descends and when
opposite the middle of the second dorsal is below the centre of the body, and is continued on to
the caudal fin. The scales forming the lateral line are smaller than those above or below. The tube
is single and elevated.

Colours — Greyish, lighter below than above, and with pinkish reflections, a silvery longitu-
dinal stripe below lateral line : very minute black points on membranes of dorsal and anal fins.
Pectoral, ventral and anal with a tinge of yellow. Iris pale golden.

This fish, which is known to Europeans under the name of " Whiting," is excellent eating ;
it arrives in Malabar about January, and is never salted. It is said to grow to three feet in length.

Habitat — From the Red Sea, through the seas of India, Malaysia and China.

Genus UMBEINA, Cm.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchiae. Body oblong, upper jaw overlapping lower, a short barbel
under symphysis of inferior jaw. Two dorsals, the first with nine or ten flexible spines, soft dorsal more
developed than spinous oue. Anal with one or two spines. Ventrals thoracic, with one spine and five rays.
Opercle unarmed, or feebly so. Teeth on jaws in villiform bands with sometimes conical ones intermixed,
none on palate. Scales moderate, lateral line continuous. Air bladder with or without appendages, or
absent. Pyloric cceca few.

Umbrina Dussumieri.
Umbrina Dussumieri, Cuv. & Val. ix. p. 481.

THE FISHES or MALABAB. L9

? Tmbrina Dussumieri, Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 278.

B. vii. D. „]„. P. 17. V. -J. A.?. C. 17. L. 1.48. L. tr. ,",.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of first dorsal £, of base of second dorsal f, of base
of anal yV, of caudal -J of total length. Height of head J, of body £, of first dorsal \, of second
dorsal j^, of ventral ] , of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter ? of length of head, 1 diameter apart, 1 diameter from end of snout.

Snout and cheeks much inflated. Lower jaw shorter than the upper which overlaps it : below
the symphysis of the lower jaw is a short fleshy cirrus about half the diameter of the eye in
length, with two pores external to it on either side, the outer of which is the largest. The maxilla
extends to beneath the anterior third of the orbit. Preopercle entire, its angle rounded. Opercle
without spines, shoulder bones entire. Nostrils close to the centre of the anterior margin of orbit ,
the posterior oval and the largest. Preorbital rather produced in front.

Teeth — Villiform in several rows in both jaws, with an outer strongly curved series in the upper
jaw. No teeth on vomer, or on palate.

Fins — Origin of pectoral slightly in advance of ventral, whilst the first dorsal commences above
ventral. Anal commences opposite centre of second dorsal. Caudal cut square, in the young fish
its central rays are produced. Dorsal spines weak, the first very short, the second the longest
and equal to the height of the body. Interspinous membrane moderately esmarginate. Second
dorsal rays of nearly equal length in the entire fin. First anal spine short, second equals three-
eighths of the length of the head.

Scales — Body and head scaled, on the former they pass in oblique rows backwards and
upwards.

Lateral line — First in upper fourth of body, then gently curves downwards, and opposite end
of anal becomes central.

Colours — Back and upper surface of the head and cheeks of.a copper tinge, which below the
lateral line becomes silvery. Fins reddish brown, first dorsal stained with black. Ventrals
yellow. In the dried specimens a brownish horizontal band is seen along the suborbital ring of
bones, and the fins are more or less dotted with black points.

Captured of sizes up to six and a half inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India.

Genus SCLENA.

Sci^ena, sp. Cuvier.
Johnius, Block, Schn.
Leiostomus, Cuv. & Val.

HOMOPFJON, Holb.

Bola, pt. Ham. Buchanan.

Branchiostegals, seven ; pseudobranchise. Body rather elongate, oblong, and compressed ; eyes lateral,
and of moderate size, interorbital space rather convex. Muzzle convex, mouth in front of snout, its
cleft horizontal or slightly oblique, with the upper jaw overhanging the lower, or else the two of the

H

50 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

same length anteriorly. Two dorsal fins, the soft portion more developed than the spinous or than the
anal. Anal fin with two spines of varying strength, the second the longest, and not above two-thirds
the length of the first ray. Teeth villiform in both jaws, with an external conical row, but without large
canines ; no teeth on the palate. Scales ctenoid. Air bladder with appendages. Caeca pylorica in
small numbers.

ScLENA MACULATA.

Johnius MACULATUS, Bl. 86hn. 75.
Sari kullah, Russell, pi. 123.

CORVINA MACULATA, Cuv. & Val. V. p. 126.

Sci^ena maculata, Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 291.
Cutlah, Mai.

B. vii. D. 10 | 23^- P. 16. V. i A. f. C. 17. L. 1. 45. L. tr. Q.

Length of head I, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal \, of base of second dorsal
§, of base of anal Jq of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal \ , of second
dorsal jq, of ventral \, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Close to profile, oval, horizontal diameter nearly \, vertical diameter \ in length of
head, 1 diameter from end of snout, f of a diameter apart.

Upper jaw the longest, overlapping the lower. Two large pores on either side of the symphysis
of lower jaw. Maxilla small, extending nearly to beneath centre of orbit. Preopercle with
its posterior margin nearly vertical, its angle rounded and with about six strong teeth : inferior
border only half the length of the vertical one, and with its edges crenated. Opercle with two
feeble spines. Interorbital space slightly convex. Preorbital large and rather inflated. Shoulder
bones entire.

Teeth — In upper jaw villiform, with an external curved band of conical ones : villiform in lower
jaw, none on palate.

Fins — The first dorsal and pectoral commence opposite each other, the ventral slightly behind,
the anal beneath centre of second dorsal, extending from about the tenth to sixteenth rays. Spines
of first dorsal ending in elastic points : second to fifth of nearly equal lengths : membrane rather
deeply cleft. Ventral spine weak, first ray prolonged. First anal spine very short, second
moderately strong and two-thirds the length of rays. Caudal rhomboidal.

Air bladder with fourteen or fifteen lateral processes on either side.

Scales — Cover the whole of the body, head, and lower jaw. A row exists at the base of the
second dorsal and anal, also over base of pectoral and caudal fins. Their longest diameter is
vertical.

Lateral line — Has a very slight curve for little more than the first half of its extent ; it is
continued on the caudal fin nearly to its termination.

Colours — Silvery grey, abdomen whitish. Five broad black bands extend over the back, the
first from the nape passes backwards and downwards, and shortly after crossing the lateral line
terminates abruptly. The second commences opposite from fifth to seventh spines of dorsal, passes
backwards and downwards, and terminates opposite base of ventral fin. The third commences oppo-
site second and third rays of second dorsal, and passes downwards parallel to the second band. The
luiu th commences below centre of second dorsal, and passes downwards as low as the lateral line.

THE FISHES OF MALABAB. 51

The fifth which is opposite the last lew rays of the second dorsal, takes the same course. Some-
times there is a sixth over the caudal . The upper two-thirds of the first dorsal is stained hlack,
deepest in colour posteriorly, and terminating opposite its eighth spine. The upper half of the
second dorsal is stained black along its wholo extent. Caudal slightly tinged with black. The
other fins yellowish.

Not considered good eating ; grows to one foot in length. .

Habitat — Seas of India.

SCLENA DUSSUMIERI.
CoEVINA DUSSUMIERI, CuV. <C' VaL V. p. 119.

Johnius Dussumieri, Cantor, Catal. p. 64.
Sci^ena Dussumieri, Guntker, Catal. ii. p. 292.

D. 9-10. | ro_Vr. P- 18. V. i. A. f, C. 15. L. 1. 52. L. tr. £. Vert. {$.

Length of head T33, of pectoral T23, of caudal ^, of base of first dorsal fs, of base of second
dorsal §, of base of anal | of the total length. Height of head fx, of body nearly \, of first dorsal
\, of second dorsal \, of ventral T23, of anal |- of the total length.

Eyes— Oval, horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end
of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body elongated, the profile from ventrals to anterior extremity of the first dorsal forms an
obtuse angle. The dorsal profile is rather more convex than that of the abdomen.

Head rounded anteriorly, upper jaw the longest, the snout projects over the mouth, the cleft
of which is somewhat oblique. The posterior extremity of the maxilla reaches to opposite the
posterior third of the orbit. Preopercle descends rather obliquely backwards, its angle rounded,
its inferior Hmb at first very oblique, and not one half of the length of the posterior one : both are
finely serrated. The opercle has a fine point, and ends in a soft extremity. Interorbital space
convex. Posterior nostril vertically oval, close to centre of orbit, the anterior midway between
snout and orbit. Five moderately sized pores under centre of mandibulae.

Teeth — Villiform with an external row of crooked conical ones in the upper jaw, whilst in the
lower the posterior row is the largest on each ramus.

Fins — First dorsal slightly in advance of pectoral, and ventral slightly behind it. The second
dorsal commences over the end of the pectoral. The anal arises under eleventh ray of dorsal.
The last dorsal ray reaches as far as the base of the caudal ; the distance from the root of the last
anal ray to the base of the caudal equals the length of the caudal fin. Pectoral rounded. Ventral
spine weak, ending in a thin point, and rather longer than the transverse diameter of the orbit.
First dorsal forms a long triangle, first spine short, the second the longest in the fin ; interspinous
membrane deeply notched. Spine of second dorsal nearly half the length of the rays, which
are about equal, except the last four or five which are shorter. First anal spine short, second
moderately strong, and three fifths of length of first ray, and rather longer than the base of the fin :
it equals the distance from the posterior extremity of orbit to anterior nostril : its first ray longest :
the fin rounded. Caudal rounded.

Scales_They cover the head, the jaws and the body ; and their exposed portions are lozenge-
shaped. A low band exists along the base of the first dorsal, and along the lower half of the
second dorsal, whilst fine ones are continued on the latter fin as far as its external margin ; the
anal and caudal are equally scaled, and there are a few on the pectoral and the ventral. Above

h 2

52 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

the lateral line the rows of scales pass at first obliquely upwards and backwards, becoming
more horizontal opposite its curve, and quite so from opposite the posterior extremity of the
anal. Below the lateral line they first pass upwards' and backwards, but not quite so obliquely
as the rows above the lateral line : on the chest, and beyond the posterior extremity of pectorals
they are nearly horizontal.

Lateral line — First curves upwards, and opposite fifth dorsal spine it is slightly above the
upper third of the height of the body, from thence it gradually sinks to opposite the posterior
extremity of the base of the anal, where it becomes straight, and is so continued to the end of
the caudal.

Air vessel — About one fourth of the total length, dilated in its anterior part, forming a rounded
lateral process on each side of the vertebral column. Immediately behind them the body of the
vessel is constricted, and the rest presents a broad lanceolate form, tapering backwards into a
sharp point. From each side proceed ten processes, of which eight are branched, but the two
posterior pairs, which are the longest, are either simple or bipartite. (Cantor.)

Colours — A golden silver, the back dark purplish, cheeks tinged with golden violet. The
abdominal surface yellow. First dorsal tipped with black, second dorsal and caudal also margined
with the same colour ; these marks are due to numerous fine dark points ; pectoral brownish
yellow, dotted with black. Ventral and anal yellowish. Eye silvery with violet reflections.

Grows to six and a half inches in length. Is good eating. From its air vessel good isinglass
can be prepared.

Habitat — Malabar, Malaysia, and China.

* SCLENA SINA.

Coevina sina, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 122.
Sci^ena sina, Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 292.

B. vii. D. 10. | ^Lg . P. 17. V. i A. j%. L. 1. 46.

Length of head \ of total length. Height of body \ to ^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter -J to f of length of head, not quite 1 diameter from end of snout.

Upper jaw rather the longest, the maxilla extends to beneath the posterior half of orbit : there
are four pores on lower surface of mandibles. Preopercle indistinctly denticulated, its angle
rounded.

Teeth — Villiform, with an external larger and pointed row.

Pins — Pectoral longer than the ventral. Second anal spine one third to one fourth of length
of head. Caudal pointed.

Colours — Greyish green above, silvery below, with a dark blotch behind opercle.

Grows to one foot in length : it is little esteemed as food.

Habitat — Seas of India and Japan.

Genus COEVINA.
Coevina, Cuvier.
Bola, pt. Ham. Buchanan.

Artificially divided from the Genus Scicena, because its second anal spine is stronger, and from two-
thirds, to as long as the first ray.

the fishes of malabar. 53

* Cortina bemiluctuosa.
Corvina semiluctuosa, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 97, pi. 10G ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 304.

B. vii. D. 10 | 31. P. 18. V. ^. A. f . C. 17.

Length of head f- of total length. Height of body nearly equal to length of head.

Upper jaw convex, overlapping the lower. The membraneous border of preopercle very in-
distinctly crenulated. Opercle ending in two points.

Fins — Second anal spine very strong and one fourth shorter than the first ray. Caudal rounded
or slightly rhomboidal. Pectoral of moderate size, semi-oval. Ventral with first ray rather pro-
longed.

Colours — Of a silvery ground colour with oblique brown-black lines passing backwards and
upwards along the centre of each row of scales. There are about forty above the lateral line, and
twenty or twenty-one below it. All the fins are blackish brown.

Is good eating. Grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

* Corvina carutta.
Johnius carutta, Bloch, t. 356 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 66.

Corvina carutta, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 124 ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 302.
? Corvina carouna, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 125.

B. vii. D. 10 | ot'j,. P. 16. V. £. A. f. C. 17. L. 1. 50.

Length of head y^ in total length. Height of body nearly T33 of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout.

Snout convex, upper jaw overhanging the lower. Preopercle indistinctly crenulated : posterior
limb vertical. Four pores on lower surface of mandibles.

Teeth — Villiform, with the external row slightly enlarged in the upper, whilst the band of
teeth is wider in the lower jaw.

Fins — Second anal spine very strong, and two thirds the length of the first ray. Caudal
rounded or rhomboidal.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back dark brown claret colour, lighter and silvery on the
cheeks, sides, and abdomen. Scales minutely dotted with black, and their margins of a deeper
brown than the ground colour. Fin membranes pale yellowish white, minutely dotted with black, the
upper half of spinous dorsal — from second to seventh spines — black, the soft dorsal with four equi-
distant, large, oblique black spots : the marginal half of caudal, ventral and anal fins blackish.
Iris golden, orbital half, bluish black.

Grows to one foot in length.

Habitat — Seas and rivers of Malabar and Malaysia.

* Corvina axillaris.

Corvina axillaris, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 113 ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 302.

B. vii. D. 10 | ^yl^. A. f. L. 1. 52. L. tr. T8¥. Ctec. pylor. 9.

Length of head \ of total length. Height of body fe to f^ in total length.

Eyes — Diameter § of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 1J diameters apart.

Mouth short and rounded, jaws nearly equal in front; cleft of mouth very oblique, maxilla

54 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

extending to below the middle of orbit. Four pores on lower surface of mandibles. Preopercle
with two or more small spines at its angle, the lowest being the largest, and four or five smaller
ones along its inferior margin. Opercle ends in two fine points.

Teeth— Villiform.

Fms — Anal spine striated, of moderate strength, two fifths of the length of the head, and
shorter than the first ray. Caudal rounded. Second dorsal covered for some distance with scales.

Air vessel large, rounded anteriorly, ending posteriorly in a long and sharp point.

Colours — Silvery, tinged with brownish towards the back. A black spot above the axil of
the pectoral. First dorsal blackish, the rest of the fins grey.

Grows to three inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

* COEVINA ALBIDA.

Corvina albida, Cuv. & Val. v. p. 93 ; Guniher, Catal. ii. p. 304.

B. vii. D. 10 | jjJ^. P. 16. V. 1 A. f. C. 19. L. 1. 75. L. tr. TV

Length of head § of total length. Height of body nearly equal to length of head.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head.

Snout rather obtuse and convex; jaws of equal length in front, five pores on the lower surface
of mandibles. Preopercle denticulated, most visibly in the young. Suprascapular crenated,
coracoid bone entire.

Teeth — Villiforin, with an external larger row, in both jaws.

Fins — Ventral and pectoral fins of nearly equal length. Second anal spine strong, slightly
shorter (in some specimens one fifth) than the first ray. Caudal rounded, or slightly pointed.

Air bladder with fringed appendages on either side.

Colours — Greyish on the back, silvery white on sides and abdomen : the centre of each
scale rather the darkest, forming lines. Fins clear white.

Grows to two feet in length and termed " Sape-katele" at Pondicherry ; is good eating.

Habitat — Seas of India and China.

Corvina Belengerii.

Corvina Belengerii, Cuv. & Val. v. p. 120 ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 303.
Johnius Belengeri, Cantor, Catal. p. 65.

D. 9-10 I 2S.V1. P. 15. V. 1 A. f . C. 15. L. 1. 45-48. L. tr. T6T.

Length of head §, of pectoral £, of caudal \} of base of first dorsal \, of base of second dorsal
nearly \, of base of anal j1^ of the total length. Height of head rather more than \, of body \,
of first dorsal \, of second dorsal ^, of ventral \, of anal \ of the total length.

Eyes — Oval, horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter § of length of head, § of a diameter
from end of snout, | of a diameter apart.

Snout hardly projects beyond the upper jaw, which is in advance of the lower : the posterior
extremity of the maxilla extends to beneath the centre of the orbit. Preopercle distinctly den-
ticulated. Five pores under the lower jaw.

Teeth — In upper jaw are numerous and villiform, with an external series of curved conical

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 55

ones which arc rather wide apart. In tho lower jaw the teeth are villiform, largest opposite the
symphysis, those of the anterior row arc directed obliquely outwards, the teeth of the posterior
series are rather larger than the others.

Fins — First dorsal slightly in advance of the pectoral : and tho ventral opposite its first
quarter : the anal arises under the fourteenth dorsal ray. Tho third and fourth spines of first
dorsal the longest, the membrane deeply emarginate. The second anal spine five-sevenths of the
length of the first ray, and rather longer than the base of tho fin, it equals the distance from the
posterior margin of the orbit, to the posterior extremity of the opercle. First ventral ray with a
filamentous prolongation. Caudal wedge-shaped. The shape of the fins much the same as in the
Scicena Dussumieri, but rather more pointed.

Scales and lateral fine, as in the Scicena Dussumieri.

Air bladder large, thick, lanceolate, with ten branching processes.

Colours — Rather similar to the Sc. Dussumieri, but darker. The body is dotted with fine brown
spots, and all the fins with closely placed, minute, black points causing the first dorsal, the lower
half of the anal, and the posterior portion of the caudal to be almost black. A spot of brilliant
gold colour exists on the preopercle. Iris silvery, upper half bluish black.

Grows to seven inches in length. Isinglass from this species is reputed to be good.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar, and Malaysia.

* COEVINA LOBATA.

Corvina lobata, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 122, pi. 107 ; Giinther, Catal. p. 304.

B. vii. D. 9-10 | jg.1^. A.f . Case, pylor. 8.

Length of head § of total length. Height of head § of total length.

Snout convex, upper jaw overhanging the lower, cleft of mouth nearly horizontal. Preopercle
appears entire.

Fins — Second anal spine strong and two-fifths of length of head : first ventral ray prolonged
into a filament : caudal rhomboidal.

Air vessel bulges out and appears as if it were constricted into two at its anterior part.

Colours — Silvery, with five large rather obscure cross bands, passing downwards to slightly
below the lateral line. Fins yellowish. The anterior portion of the first dorsal, the external
margins of the second, of the caudal, anal, and ventral are blackish.

Grows to five inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

Corvina Neilli.*

B. vii. D. 9 | Jg P. 17. V. l A.f. C. 17. L. r. 53. L. tr. 24.

Length of head \, of pectoral nearly \, of caudal fy, of base of first dorsal T2g, of base of
second dorsal ^, of base of anal y^ of total length. Height of head ^, of body \, of first dorsal ' ,
of second dorsal T\, of ventral \, of anal \ of total length.

* I have named this species after A. C. B. Neill, Esq., Eetired list, Medical Department, Madras
Army, from whom I have received most valuable assistance during the progress of this work through the
press.

56 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Eyes — Horizontal diameter fa vertical diameter ^ of length of head, 1J diameters from end
of snout, 1J diameters apart anteriorly, further posteriorly.

Body most elevated opposite commencement of first dorsal, and gradually tapering towards
the tail. Profile from snout to dorsal rather convex : the upper profile more convex than that of

the abdomen.

Snout obtuse, upper jaw rather oblique, lower nearly horizontal. The large orifice of a gland
exists under the symphysis of lower jaw, which has two others of equal size on either side. The
maxilla extends to below the posterior third of the orbit. Posterior margin of preopercle vertical,
entire : inferior limb convex and also entire, very slightly roughened along its edge but
nowhere serrated ; its angle irregularly rounded. Interopercle entire, a very small portion visible.
Opercle ending in a soft extremity. Interorbital space convex, snout laterally rather bulging.
Posterior nostril transversely oval and the largest, situated close above the centre of the anterior
margin of the orbit ; anterior small, oval, nearer the orbit than the end of the snout. Supra-
scapular entire.

Teeth — Villiform in both jaws, with an external row of curved conical ones in each inter-
maxillary, and a posterior row of larger ones on either side of mandibles.

Fins — First dorsal and pectoral arise on a line, close behind the termination of opercle; ventral
slightly posterior : the anal commences opposite the middle of the second dorsal and terminates
opposite its fourteenth ray, thus leaving double the length on the abdominal surface of the tail finless,
compared to what exists on that of the back. First spine of first dorsal fin very minute, the next
four of about equal length, and the last hardly one quarter their height : the interspinous mem-
brane rather deeply cleft. Second dorsal with its posterior extremity rounded. Pectoral rather
pointed. Anal moderately square, its second spine very strong, four times the length of the first,
and nearly three quarters that of the first ray.

Scales — Exist over the body, head, and jaws. They are placed in oblique rather irregular
rows above the lateral line as far as opposite the base of the anal, beyond which they become
horizontal. Below the lateral Une they are at first oblique, becoming horizontal beyond the base
of the anal. There are some at the base of second dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, especially over
the last. Their longest diameter is from above downwards.

Lateral line— Consisting of single tubes dividing and subdividing posteriorly into numerous
branches. First curved to opposite the base of the anal, from thence straight to the caudal, on to
which it is continued to its termination.

Colours — General dark greyish silvery, with the upper surface of the head of a beautiful violet
purple, which tint is continued, but less vividly, along its whole back : abdomen silvery with
purplish reflections. Upper edge of dorsal slightly stained with black. Scales rather darkest in
then- centres, forming oblique and longitudinal lines. Eyes silvery, purple above.
Common in Cochin, where it is found to two feet or more in length.
Habitat — Malabar.

Genus OTOLITHUS, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranehise. Body oblong, compressed. Bones of head with muci-
ferous system well developed. Muzzle obtuse, or moderately pointed ; mouth in front of snout. Pre-

JOHNIUS

RUBER, BL Sell.

P-

75, t.

17

*

Otolithus eubek, Cuv. i

& I

ral. v.

P-

GO,

Pi

ii.

p. 309.

B. vii

. D.10|^. P

. 17

. V.

i

5"

A.

i

T

THE FISHES OF MALABAK. 57

nporclo denticulated or ercnulated. Bony operde ending in one or two flal points. Two dorsal fins, the

first with nine or ten feeble spines, the sol't portion more developed than the spinous or than the anal. Anal
with two small spines. Pectoral rays branched. Ventral thoracic, with one spine and five soil rays.
Teeth in villiform bands, with more or less distinct conical canines, either in both jaws or only in the
upper. A large loose hone in each auricular cavity. Scales of moderate size, ctenoid. Air bladder present,
and with lateral appendages. Pyloric appendages few.

Otolithus ruber.

102 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 59 ; Giinther, Catal.

0. 17. L. 1. 50. L. tr. T7f.

Length of head, from ^ in the young to f in the adult, of pectoral t^j, of caudal -f.j, base of
first dorsal J, base of second dorsal jq, base of anal y^ of total length. Height of head ■! , of body
little more than A, of first dorsal ^, of second dorsal TYf, of ventral -fj of total length.

Eyes — Diameter rather more than \ of head, 1\ diameters apart, 1 diameter from end of snout.

Body gradually decreases in size from the head to the tail, sides moderately compressed.

Mouth protrusible, lower jaw longest ; when closed its extremity is received into an emargi-
nation in end of upper jaw. Maxilla very wide at its posterior extremity ; it extends backwards
to below the middle of orbit. Preorbital, long narrow ; preopercle, posterior margin vertical, angle
rounded, lower margin nearly horizontal, all with fine denticulations, which on the lower limb
become very small and blunt. Opercle triangular, base in front, with one point moderately dis-
tinct at centre of posterior margin, and a smaller one above it. Sub- and interopercles entire,
interorbital space rather convex. Nostrils opening at anterior superior margin of orbit, in rather
a depressed triangular space, having an elevated margin above, and bounded below by continuations
from the orbital rim.

Teeth — On either side of centre of upper jaw closely approximating, two conical teeth, the
internal the shortest, with a row of villiform ones behind, and a very fine brush-like series posterior
to them : a single external series of sharp short conical ones along the jaw, with an internal series of
several rows of brush-like ones. Two large canines in lower jaw at its centre, with several rows
of villiform ones behind, a single row of sharp short conical ones moderately far apart along either
limb of lower jaw.

Fins — First dorsal and ventral arise on a fine, slightly behind the origin of the pectoral.
Second dorsal commences midway between snout and base of caudal. Anal commences opposite
centre of second dorsal. First dorsal of a long triangular shape, spines weak, extending beyond
the membrane which is rather deeply notched, first spine one-third the length of second, which is
about the same length as the third, from whence they rapidly decrease. Second dorsal slightly
highest in front, but its upper margin is parallel with curve of back. Pectoral pointed. Ventral
triangular. Anal square, spine one-third the length of rays. Caudal pointed in the young, but
becomes rounded with age.

Scales — Cover body, cheeks, snout and lower jaw, with some along the centre of caudal.
The rows ascend backwards, and in rather an irregularly arched direction from above the lateral
line, below it they pass more regularly upwards and backwards towards it.

Lateral line— Gradually descends, forming a sort of curve to a little beyond the commence-

I

58 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

merit of the anal, where it becomes straight, and is so continued to the end of caudal fin. Each
scale has a raised horizontal tube, which in some, especially those most anterior, have a horizontal
depression along their centre as well as on each side, and posteriorly there are offsets from the tube
of smaller tubular processes.

Stomach elongated, cylindrical, with four CEecopyloric appendages. Air vessel half length of
body, large, flattened, broad, lanceolate, terminating behind in a short point, and having thirty-four
processes, of which the anterior four or five divide into four branches, the next into three, the
succeeding ones into two, while the posterior processes which are slightly longer than the preceding
ones are simple : all again divide into minor ramifications. (Cantor.)

Colours — Dull brownish red with silvery reflections ; sides of body, of head and abdomen
whitish silvery ; the upper portion of opercle steel blue. Dorsal with a tinge of dull red, exter-
nally minutely dotted with brown spots ; the other fins yellow, with a dash of red. Eye golden,
reddish brown superiorly.

Grows to two feet and a half in length. Good eating, fresh or salted, and from its air-vessel
isinglass can be manufactured. Is not very common in Malabar. Termed Pectiepierre at
Pondicherry.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

* Otolithus aegenteus.

Otolithus aegenteus, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 62 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 61 ; Guniher, Catal.
ii. p. 310.

B. vii. D. 9-10 | ^h». P. 20. V. \. A. f . C. 17. L. 1. 70. Csec. pylor. 6.

Length of head ^ to § of total length. Height of body nearly ^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter from ^ to ^ of length of head.

Preopercle with very small denticulations.

Teeth — Villiform, with two — sometimes three — canines on either side of symphysis of maxilla,
of which the posterior, or centre one when three are present, is the longest ; the canines are suc-
ceeded by a series of distant, conical teeth. On either side of symphysis of lower jaw is a small
canine, and inside the villiform series a row of large conical ones, some of which in size exceed
the lower canines.

Fins — Anal spine feeble, one third the length of the first soft ray. Caudal rhomboidal.

Scales — None on fins.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back iridescent greyish green, with pale reddish reflec-
tions. Sides of head and below lateral line reddish golden. Upper part and posterior margin of
opercle blackish blue. Dorsal interspinous membrane reddish ; caudal, reddish yellow minutely
dotted with brown and having black margins. Pectoral, ventral aud anal pale yellowish red. Iris
golden, bluish black towards the orbit. The colours are lighter in the young.

Air bladder small, very narrow, lanceolate, about one quarter the length of the fish, and ter-
minating in a fine point; from each side of the body of the air-vessel proceed twenty-five branched
processes, of which the anterior are the largest, and have the greatest number of branchlets.

The quantity of isinglass yielded by this species is small but very good.

Grows to two feet seven inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar, Malaysia, and China.

THE FISHES OP MALABAB. 59

Fam. POLYNEMID^.
Genus POLYNEMUS, Unn.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchise. Form of body oblong, compressed. Eyes, large lateral.
Mouth below snout, with lateral cleft, snout prominent. Two separate dorsals, the second, the anal, and
the caudal more or less covered with small scales. Dorsal spines weak. Second dorsal and anal of
nearly equal extent. Several articulated free filiform appendages in front of base of pectoral fin. Pre-
opercle serrated. Villiform teeth in jaws, vomer and palate. Scales moderate, ctenoid. Lateral line
continued on to caudal. Air bladder varying in size and structure ; in some species absent.

POLYNEMUS HEPTADACTYLUS.

Polynemus heptadactylus, Cuv. A- Yah iii. p. 390; Cantor, Catal. p. 34; Guniher,
Catal. ii. p. 321.

B. vn. D. 7-8 | TL. P. 15, to. V. i. A. p^. L. 1. 50. L. tr. {\. Cebc. pylor. 4.

Length of head ^j, of pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of
head jt, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter -3- of length of head, 1\ diameters from end of snout, 2^ diameters apart. Ex-
ternal third of orbits surrounded by an adipose lid.

Profile rather elevated from snout to the first dorsal. Upper jaw rather oblique, the maxilla
extends behind the orbit a distance of half its transverse diameter.

Preopercle, vertical limb slightly convex, denticulated, with a very strong spine at the lower
termination of its denticulations, and opposite the upper margin of the mouth. Opercle ending
in a soft point.

Teeth — Villiform in both jaws, none on their outer surfaces. A band of the same character
on vomer and palate.

Fins —The first dorsal arises above, or slightly in advance of base of pectoral : ventral opposite
second third of pectoral : the second dorsal midway between posterior margin of orbit and root 1 if
caudal : anal opposite fifth dorsal ray. First dorsal triangular, spines weak, the first very short,
the second shorter than the third, which is the longest, from it they rapidly decrease : the spines
are prolonged beyond the membrane which is moderately notched. The distance between the end
of first and commencement of second dorsal, equals half the distance between end of second dorsal
and commencement of caudal. Spine of second dorsal half the length of first ray, which is the
longest ; the fin is of a trapezoid shape, with its superior margin concave. Pectoral rather pointed,
with seven appendages, the two highest and lowest equal, and shorter than the other four which
extend to the third and fourth anal rays. Ventral triangular, its spine weak. Anal, first spine
short, second half the length of third, which is half as long as first ray; shape of fin trapezoid.
Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Deciduous, and placed as in the P. Indicus, p. 61.

Lateral line — First ascends, from opposite the end of the first dorsal it descends, above extre-
mity of anal it proceeds straight to the base of the caudal, where it passes downwards over the
upper margin of the highest ray of the lower lobe, and divides into two, one being continued
straight to the end of the fin, the other passing to between the two inner rays of the lower lobe.

Colours — General colour silvery, with a yellowish tinge, and light yellowish-brown stripes

1 2

CO THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

along its sides and back. Pectorals deep black, a black spot on upper margin of opercle. All
the fins finely dotted with black points, the tips of the dorsal and caudal appear blackish, as do
also the extremities of the free pectoral filaments.

No air bladder.

Common in Malabar during the monsoon, but does not appear ever to exceed five inches in
length.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and the Moluccas.

PoLYNEMUS SEXTARIUS.

Polynemus sextaeius, Block, Syst. p. 18, t. 4; Guv. & Vol. iii. p. 388, vii. p. 514;
Cantor, Catal. p. 32 ; Gitntker, Catal. ii. p. 326.

B. vii. D. 8 | TV P. 15, vi. V. l A. T32. C. 17.

Length of head ^, of pectoral -^s, of caudal §, of base of first dorsal ^j , of base of second
dorsal \, of base of anal ^ of total length. Height of head more than \, of body § , of first dorsal T^j,
of second dorsal \, of ventral -J-, of anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Horizontal diameter J, and vertical diameter \ of length of head, f of a diameter from
end of snout, nearly 1 diameter apart.

The posterior extremity of the maxilla extends to beyond the posterior margin of the orbit.
Preopercle, posterior margin strongly denticulated, with a very strong tooth just above its angle.

Teeth — Villiform, in about three rows, none exist in the outer surface of either jaw.

Fins — First dorsal arises slightly behind the pectoral, ventral opposite centre of first dorsal.
Second dorsal commences midway between sumn.it of preopercle and base of caudal. Anal arises
under third ray of dorsal. The outer pectoral filaments reach beyond the end of the ventral. The
fins are shaped as in the last species, with the caudal lobes pointed.

Colours — The upper half of first dorsal black, also the remainder of its interspinous membrane
between the first and fifth spines, but not quite so dark. Pectoral and ventral dark-spotted,
nearly black. External half of second dorsal and anal, as well as most of the caudal finely dotted
with minute black points. A black mark on the shoulder. Palate covered with large black spots.

Lateral line — Is almost straight as far as the base of the caudal, from whence it passes to the
posterior margin of the lower lobe.

Air bladder — Very small.

Not rare, up to four inches in length during the monsoon time in Malabar. Appears to be
quite a small species.

Habitat — Seas of India, and Malaysia.

Polynemus Indicus.
Polynemus Indicus, Shaw, Zool. v. pt. 1, p. 155; Cantor, Catal. p. 29; Gitntker,

Catal. ii. p. 326.
Maga-boshee, .Russell, pi. 184.
Polynemus sele, Ham. Buck. pp. 226, 381 ; McClelland, Journal Asiatic Society, viii.

1839, p. 203 ; Calcutta Journal of Natural History, ii. p. 450, iii. pp. 179, 181,

pi. 6.
Polynemus ploteus, plebejus, lineatus, lt gelatinosus, McClelland, Ibid. ii. p.

450, iii. p. 179, &c.

Tin: fishes of malabar. 61

POLYNEMUS UBONEMUS, CllV. & Yal. iii. p. 385.

B. vii. D. 8 1-nk^. P. 20, v. V. \. A. rf-fa. C. 17. L. 1. 02-05. L. tr. TV Cseoo-

pyloric appendages numerous.

Length of head -§, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal \, of base of second dorsid \ ,
of base of anal -| of the total length. Height of head }, of body ^, of first dorsal J, of second
dorsal ^, of ventral |, of anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — External third on either side covered by an adipose lid ; diameter ^ of length of
head, -| diameter from end of snout ; 1 diameter apart.

Body of a rather elliptical form, more prominent below than above.

Mouth with an oblique cleft, the posterior extremity of maxilla extending to one quarter of a
diameter behind the orbit : lower jaw shortest, snout overhanging, and advanced beyond both jaws.
Preopercle, its posterior limb nearly vertical, slightly convex in its upper portion and with its
anode produced : moderately strong serratures, with a prominent tooth above the angle. Lower
limb short, horizontal and entire. Opercle rounded posteriorly. Interorbital space rather convex.
Snout produced, diaphanous. Openings of nostrils oval, rather large, approximating : anterior on
a lower level than the posterior one.

Teeth — Villiform, in about five rows in the upper, and four in the lower jaw. Villiform teeth
on vomer in a transversely oval spot, and in a row on the palate.

Fins — First dorsal commences slightly behind the origin of the pectoral : ventral arises
opposite centre of pectoral. Second dorsal commences rather nearer to the base of caudal, than it
does to the posterior margin of the orbit. Anal begins opposite fourth dorsal ray. First dorsal
triano-ular, spines weak and prolonged beyond the membrane which is also emarginate : first spine
very short, second the longest, from which they rapidly decrease to the last. Second dorsal
trapezoid, the distance between it and the posterior extremity of the first dorsal equals that from
the end of the snout to the posterior margin of the orbit: *he distance from the posterior
extremity of second dorsal to base of caudal equals the distance from the commencement of first
dorsal to that of the second dorsal. Pectoral rather rounded, with five articulated fila-
ments arising a short distance below and in front of its base, the first of which is the longest
and extends as far as the commencement of the anal fin, the inferior one is the shortest only
extending as far as the end of the pectoral. Ventral spine weak, a long wide free scale at its
base : distance from commencement of fin to base of anal nearly equals the space from the
anterior margin of the orbit to the posterior extremity of opercle. Anal trapezoid, first spine
small, second nearly half the length of first ray which is the longest : this fin extends the same
distance posteriorly beyond the end of the second dorsal, as it arises behind its origin. Caudal
with long rather crescentic shaped pointed lobes, which sometimes end in filamentous prolonga-
tions, the lowest is usually the longest.

Scales — Ctenoid extending over body and head, but none on snout, they cover the lower jaw,
and exposed portion of maxilla as well as the base of the caudal, and there are a few between the
spines of the first dorsal fins. A few finer ones over pectoral, second dorsal, and anal fins.

Lateral line — Nearly straight, in single tubes along the centre of each scale. At the base of
the caudal it curves downwards over the internal ray of lower lobe and is thus continued to the
posterior extremity of the fin.

Colours — Back greyish green : abdomen silvery white, with a very indistinct stripe along the
centre of each line of abdominal scales. First dorsal stained with black, and its anterior portion

(52 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

closely dotted with minute black points : the inferior half of opercle also minutely dotted with
black. Second dorsal dotted with black, and darkest anteriorly. Caudal darkest posteriorly
especially at the points of its lobes. Anal finely dotted in the same way as the second dorsal.
Pectoral, its appendages, and ventral nearly white.

Air bladder present, " its form is oval and the membrane is silvery and thick. It occupies the
whole length of the abdomen, terminating posteriorly in a very sharp point, which penetrates the
muscles of the tail over the first interspinal of the anal. It adheres to the abdominal vertebra
from the third to the seventh. From either side towards the ventral surface proceed from twenty-
eight to thirty-five appendages, which with the exception of the three last have two roots, but
terminate in a single sharp point. Above each of these, towards the dorsal surface, appear one
or two others. All the appendages penetrate the thick of the muscles, and are slightly directed
towards the back of the fish." Cuv. if Val. hi. p. 285.

Grows to three feet in length, but rarely exceeds 20 lbs. in weight. As an article of diet it is
inferior to the P. tetradachjlus, both of which are termed Rowball at Vizagapatam. Its great
value consists in the isinglass which is obtained from its air bladder, a large fish yielding about
two ounces of good quality. It is probable that much of the isinglass exported from Malabar
under the designation of "fish maws" is produced from this species.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and extending to the coasts of Australia.

POLYNEMUS TETEADACTYLUS.

Polynemus teteadactylus, Shaw, v. p. 155; Cuv. & Val. iii. p. 375. vii. p. 514 ;

McClelland, J. A. 8. viii. 1839, p. 206 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 25 ; Gunther, Catal.

ii. p. 329.
Maja-jellee, Russell, pi. 183.

Polynemus teeia, Earn. Buck, pp. 224, 381 ; Gray, Illust. I. Z., i. pi. 92, f. 2.
Polynemus salliah, et quadeifilis, Cantor, Catal. J. A. S., v. p. 166.

B. vii. D. 8 | rg.Lg. P. 16, iv. V. \. A. r^[r. C. 17. L. 1. 75-85. L. tr. T?.
D. 8-9 | xj.Vg. P. 17, iv. V. J. A. -,-§;{ g. C. 17. according to Cantor.

Length of head \, of pectoral J, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal ^V, of base of secuml
dorsal \, of base of anal } of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal I, of
second dorsal \, of ventral y1^, of anal T of total length.

Eves — Oval, with adipose lids, covering nearly half their width. Horizontal diameter §,
vertical diameter yy of length of head, J transverse diameter from end of snout, 1 transverse
diameter apart.

Body long, rather compressed and tapering towards both extremities.

Mouth oblique, deeply cleft, and not protrusible, the maxiUa extends the length of transverse
diameter of the orbit behind its posterior margin. Lower jaw shortest, snout diaphanous, over-
hanging, and advanced before the jaws : nostrils at its outer margin : under surface of lower
jaw nearly flat. Preopercle, its ascending limb obliquely convex, slightly produced just above the
angle, the whole being finely and evenly serrated except on the angle where the serratures are
finer and less distinct, its lower limb short and entire. Iuterorbital space nearly flat.

Teeth — Exceedingly numerous and very fine, covering the whole of the exposed and inferior

THE FISHES OF MALABAB. 03

edges of the intermaxillaries, making (hem appear rough like a file. The lower jaw on its upper
and external margins is similarly covered to beneath the posterior margin of the orbit. Teetb
of the same description on vomer and palate.

Fins — A short distance in front and below the level of the base of the pectoral fin arise four
articulated filaments, the two posterior of which are usually longest, and equal the length of the
head : in one specimen there were three free rays on the left side, and four on the right. The first
dorsal arises over the first third of the pectoral, the ventral opposite its posterior third. The
second dorsal commences a little nearer the base of the caudal than it does to the orbit, the anal
arises opposite to it. The distance between the root of the ventral and the commencement of the
anal, equals the extent from the anterior margin of the orbit to the end of the opercle. First
dorsal triangular, its spines weak, membrane slightly emarginate : first spine very short, the second
the longest, from whence they rapidly decrease. Second dorsal highest in front, first ray the
longest, its upper margin slightly concave, its general form trapezoid. Pectoral slightly pointed,
an elongated scale at its base. Ventral small and triangular with a badly developed but elongated
scale at its base. Anal rather larger than second dorsal, but of the same shape. Caudal lobed in
its posterior two-thirds, the upper one slightly the longest.

Scales — Moderate, ctenoid, disposed the same as in the last species.

Lateral line — Consists of single well marked tubes, its direction is nearly straight, with a
very slight downward curve from opposite the first dorsal, and a moderate rising opposite the end
of second dorsal, at the base of the caudal it divides into two branches which slightly diverge, and
again subdivide each into two more.

Colours — Head and back silvery green, becoming silvery white on the sides and abdomen.
Dorsal and caudal greyish with minute black points, and darkest — nearly black — at their margins.
Pectoral, ventral, and anal fins, pale orange, filaments white. A dark niai-k on upper portion of
opercle. Cheeks and suborbital region golden. Iris silvery with a golden green tinge on its
upper surface.

No air bladder. Pyloric appendages very numerous.

Grows to six feet in length in the Gangetic estuaries, but rarely above three feet in Malabar.
Is excellent eating. It appears to be very numerous in Cochin, especially in the months of
December and January, when numbers are taken by trolling. Of course, having no air bladder it
is useless for the manufacture of isinglass.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Fam. SPHYR^NIDjE.
Genus SPHYE^ENA, Artedi.

Branekiostegals, seven : pseudobranchiae. Body elongated, subcylindrical. Eyes lateral, of moderate
size: cleft of mouth wide, armed with large strong trenchant teeth in both jaws and on the palatine
bones. Preopercle entire. Opercle without spines. Two dorsal fins, remote, similar to and opposite
second dorsal. Ventrals abdominal. Scales small, cycloid : lateral line continuous. Air bladder large,
sometimes bifurcated anteriorly. Pyloric appendages many.

64 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Sphye^na JELLO.

Jellow, Russell, pi. 174.

Sphye^na jello, Guv. & Veil, vi. p. 349 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 24 ; Giiiither, Catal. ii.

p. 337.
Cheelahoo, Mai.

B. vii. D. 5 | l P. 14. V. \. A. ¥L. C. 17. L. 1. 90-100. L. tr. -|-§. Vert. ff.

Length of head nearly J, of pectoral yy, of caudal ^, of base of first dorsal TT, of base of
second dorsal T\, of base of anal y^ of total length. Height of head yy, of body T2j, of first
dorsal TT, of second dorsal J, of ventral -^, of anal | of total length.

Eyes — Close to profile, oval, horizontal diameter ^, vertical diameter J of length of head,
2^ transverse diameters from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body elongated, tapering towards both extremities, head depressed, sides compressed. There
is a gradual rise from snout to first dorsal, from whence to termination of second dorsal the profile
is nearly horizontal.

Mouth deeply cleft, jaws compressed, almost ending in a point, the anterior extremity
of maxilla having a shallow notch to receive the tip of the lower jaw : posterior extremity of
maxilla extending to beneath anterior margin of the orbit : lower jaw slightly the longest, with
a fleshy tubercle at symphysis. Preorbital produced, narrow anteriorly, with stellated ridges
arising from its posterior and extending towards its anterior margin ; the superior four are directed
horizontally, the inferior five downwards, or backwards and downwards. Preopercle, its posterior
and inferior limbs of nearly equal length, angle obliquely rounded. Opercle rather narrow, termi-
nating in two flat membraneous points and forming with the subopercle a semicircle posteriorly.
Upper surface of head has raised irregular longitudinal ridges. The gills are cleft to below the
anterior margin of the orbits. The branchiostegal rays are rather wide apart. The orifice of
the nostrils approximate, and are close to the angle of the preorbital.

Teeth — An external series of numerous sharp teeth in the upper jaw, and two large canines
in the anterior portion of either intermaxillary. A row of large canines along the palate. Lower
jaw with large teeth placed rather wide apart, their size augmenting posteriorly, and with two large
canines anteriorly.

Fins — Pectoral arises close to the anterior margin of the opercle, ventral on the abdominal
surface under its posterior third. First dorsal opposite ventral. Second dorsal commences
midway between the commencement of first dorsal and base of caudal ; the anal is placed beneath
it : there is a space between these fins and the base of the caudal equal to the distance from the
anterior margin of the orbit to the posterior margin of the opercle : whilst the distance between
the two dorsal fins is somewhat more. The distance from the base of ventral to the commence-
ment of anal, equals the length of the head. First dorsal square, spines weak, protruding beyond
the membrane, which is rather deeply cleft. Second dorsal produced in front, with a concave
superior margin ; the spine is rather more than one-third the length of- the first ray, which is rather
the longest. Pectoral rather pointed. Ventral abdominal. Anal of the same shape as the second
dorsal. Caudal lobed in its posterior two-thirds.

Scales — Extend over the body and opercles, but there are none on the summit of the head,
preorbital, or on the jaws.

Lateral line — Consisting of single tubes : at first slightly concave, forming an obtuse curve

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. G5

opposite the centre of the pectoral, then bending gradually downwards until opposite the origin
of the second dorsal, from whence it proceeds direct to the centre of the caudal.

Air vessel long and cylindrical.

Colours — Greyish green above, white beneath. Fins greyish. Dorsal, caudal and anal tipped
with white. Some cloudy bands pass from the back downwards towards the abdomen. Iris pale
golden, dark above.

Grows to four feet in length, and is sometimes eaten by Europeans, but is not esteemed.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and the Cape of Good Hope.

* Sphyilena OBTUSATA.

Sphyr^na obtusata, Guv. & Val. iii. p. 350. Cantor, Catal. p. 24 ;- Gunther, < latal. ii.
p. 339.

B. vii. D. 5 | i. P. 12. V. \. A. i C. 17. L. 1. 90.

Length of head T3S of total length. Height of body from \ to T27 of total length.

Eyes — Oval, the horizontal diameter J of length of head.

Lower jaw either deficient in, or with a very slight fleshy appendage at symphysis. Preopercle
almost rectangular, with angle slightly produced. Opercle terminates in a single flat membraneous
point.

Teeth — Small but with three longer ones (the second, third and fourth) anteriorly on either
side of palatine bones.

Fins — The ventrals are situated in front of the first dorsal, opposite the posterior half of the
pectorals. The caudal is less deeply cleft than in the last species.

Colours — The upper surface of the head and back of a dark greyish green, paler on the upper
part of the sides, and clouded beneath the lateral line, the cheeks and the remainder of the sides
of a pale silvery colour; the abdomen white; pectorals and ventrals whitish; the other fins and
the iris the same as in the S. jello.

Grows to two feet sis inches in length.

Habitat— Red Sea, Seas of India, Mauritius, Malaysia, to Port Jackson in Eastern Australia.

Pam. TRICHIURIDjE.
Genus TKICHIUPOJS, Linn.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchise. Body elongate, bandlike, compressed, with the tail
tapering to a point. Eyes lateral. Muzzle elongate. Cleft of mouth wide. One dorsal extending along
the whole length of the back : no caudal : ventrals thoracic, reduced to a pair of scales or absent : anal
spines numerous, minute, sometimes concealed in the skin. Gill openings wide. Strong teeth in the jaws
and on the palatine bones, none on the vomer. No scales. Air bladder present. Pyloric appendages
numerous.

Trichiurus malabaricus, Plate V.
Trichiurus Malabaricus, Day, Proc. Zool. Society, 1865, p. 20.
B. vii. D. 132 P. 11.

K

GG THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Length of head \, of pectoral Jj of total length. Height of body TV, of head ^o °f total
length.

Byes — Diameter \ of length of head, rather more than ^ a diameter apart, nearly 1J diameters
from end of snout.

Lower jaw longest, the maxilla extends to beneath the first quarter of orbit. Preorbital large,
lineated, but entire. Opercle finely lineated and extending backwards to above pectoral fin.
Openings of nostrils large, rather close to anterior margin of orbit, the superior margin of which
is nearly horizontal, and close to the profile of the head.

Teeth — Three large canines in interruaxillaries, the anterior the largest, curved, directed for-
wards, downwards, and barbed at its extremity : the two posterior ones arising from the external
extremities of the intermaxillaries, are curved backwards and downwards ; they are also slightly
barbed at their extremities. An external row of about five fine teeth exists in the intermaxillaries,
and a single row of about seven sharp, pointed, and flattened laterally is found in the maxilla. A
row similar to that in the upper jaw exists in the lower, but the teeth are finer. In young specimens
the dental arrangement is slightly different.

Fins — Dorsal fin commences opposite the anterior margin of opercle : spines weak, they
become gradually longer until they nearly equal the height of the body. Anal spines are very fine
and short in young specimens, or else truncated at their extremities ; in the adult fish all are
truncated as shown magnified in the plate.

Lateral line — Curves downwards behind the pectoral, and at first passes along the inferior
third of the body, subsequently still lower.

Colours — Silvery white with a slight pinkish tinge : back a little the darkest. The first three or
four dorsal spines have a black spot upon them. A line of greenish black formed of very minute
dots, extends along the upper third of the dorsal fin in its whole extent. Caudal extremity with a
dark margin. Eyes silvery : tongue smooth and of a golden tinge. Pectoral greyish yellow. Skin of
a metallic silver.

Is very common at Cochin. Grows to twelve inches or more in length, and is good eating.

Habitat — Malabar.

* Trichiurus HAUMELA.

CLUPEA HAUMELA, Forsh. p. 72.

Saw ala, Russell, pi. 41.

Trichiurus lepturus, Ham. Buch. pp. 31, 364.

Trichiurus haumela, Guv. & Vol. viii. p. 249 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 113 ; Guntker, Catal.
ii. p. 348.

B. vii. D. 127-133. P. 11.

Length of head from J to \ of the total length. Height of body from ^ to f7 of the total
length.

Eyes — Diameter ^ of the length of head, 2^ diameters from end of snout.

Teeth — In the upper jaw, according to Cantor, are upwards of fifteen distant teeth on either
side, of which the anterior pair, which are present in only the very young, are directed forwards.
Behind these appear a pair, or a single arched tooth, the posterior part of the point of which is
barbed. Next follow three or four very small and lancet shaped, behind which is a very long

PLATE

F Da i

T It H'llI U H I S M A l,.\ B A Kli'i S

THE FISHES OF MALABAE

(17

arched, half-barbed tooth. ' The resi of the space is occupied by some distanl lancet shaped t, . tl,.
of which those in the middle are the largest. On each side of the symphysis of the lower [aw
appears an arched tooth, liko the corresponding one in the Iowerjaw, but shorter. Behind the tooth
is a vacant space, followed by upwards of twelve lancet shaped teeth, which with the exception
of one or two half barbed in the middle, are smaller than the corresponding ones in the upper jaw.
Along the margin of each palatine bone is a series of velvety teeth. Tongue smooth.

Fins — The anterior dorsal ray is one-fourth of length of head.

Colours— Upper surface of head, back, and naked point of tail bluish Mack, light silvery on
the jaws, sides of head, and body : abdomen of a brilliant silver. Dorsal rays and membrane pale
reddish yellow, the whole of the latter to the twelfth ray, and from thence only its upper half
minutely dotted with black. Anterior third of pectorals pale reddish yellow, the rest blackish. 1 ris
silvery blue, blackish towards the orbit. The young are lighter in colour.

Grows to two feet eight inches in length, is eaten fresh or salted. It is of voracious habits,
devouring its own kind as well as other fishes and Crustacea.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia and China.

* Trichiurus savala.

Trichiurus savala, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 251 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 115 ; Gunther, CataLii.

p. 347.
Trichiurus armatus, Gray, El. I. Z. pi. 93, f. 1.

B. vii. D. 112-120. P. 11.

Length of head -^ to ^ of the length of body. Height of body ^ to ^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter T2T to ^ of length of head, 3£ diameters in length of snout, 1 diameter apart.
Interorbital space flat.

Teeth — The lancet shaped teeth of the jaws are proportionably smaller than in the T. haumela,
which species it much resembles.

Colours —Upper surface of head, back, and naked point of the tail bluish, all the other parts
of a shining silver. Dorsal and pectoral rays yellowish white, their membranes diaphanous.
Iris silvery, bluish towards the orbit.

Grows to one foot four inches in length, and is eaten both fresh and salted by the Natives. Is
captured most abundantly in Aptril and May.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia, and China.

Fam. SCOMBRIDiE.
Genus SCOMBER, Artedi.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchiae. Body rather elongate and compressed. Eyes lateral.
Cleft of mouth wide. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Two dorsals, the first
spinous and separated by an interspace from the second, behind which and also behind the anal are five or
six finlets : the spinous dorsal is less developed than the soft dorsal, or than the anal : ventrals thoracic ;
two slight ridges on either side of root of caudal ; gill openings wide. Teeth small on jaws, vomer, and
palatine bones. Scales small. Air bladder simple, but absent in some species. Pyloric appendages very

numerous.

K 2

68 the fishes of malabar.

Scomber kanagurta.
Kanagurta, Russell, pi. 136.

Scomber kanagurta, Guv. & Val. viii. p. 49 ; Giintlier, Catal. ii. p. 360.
I la, Mai.

B. vi. D. 8-10. | JT | v. P. 21. V. -1. A. l.\x\ | v. C. 25. Vert, if .
Length of head rather more than \, of pectoral j, of caudal J, of caudal lobes \, of base of first
dorsal \, of base of second dorsal (exclusive of finlets) \, of base of anal (exclusive of unlets) TV, of
total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal \, of second dorsal TV/, of ventral \, of anal
T2 of total length.

Eyes — Upper margin close to profile, diameter \ length of head, with an adipose lid on either
side extending across \ of the diameter : 1 diameter from end of snout : 1 diameter apart.

Lower jaw rather the longest, with a tubercle at the symphysis : gape of mouth wide : the
maxilla extends almost to beneath the posterior margin of the orbit, it is concealed by a large ellip-
tical preoibital which has a line of pores opening along its upper third. Preopercle large, its posterior
margin oblique, its angle rounded and forming its widest part, its inferior margin horizontal and
about half the length of the vertical, the lower margin with about fifteen shallow canals passing
downwards. Opercle triangular, its base above, posterior border with an emargination as deep as
it is high. Upper surface of the head with a central ridge that extends from opposite the anterior
margin of the orbit backwards to the occipital : several other smaller ones run parallel with, or
towards it. Snout rather elevated. Nostrils midway between eye and snout.
Teeth — Minute in the jaws, vomer and palate.

Fins — Pectoral arises below and a short distance in advance of the emargination of the
opercle : the first dorsal begins opposite middle of pectoral : ventral under first dorsal : the second
dorsal commences midway between opercle and base of caudal : anal under fourth ray of second
dorsal terminating opposite the end of that fin. First dorsal triangular, its spines weak, and it
can be received into a groove on the back : the second spine one quarter longer than the first, and
very slightly longer than the third, posteriorly they rapidly decrease in height, interspinous mem-
brane entire. The distance between the first and second dorsal fins equals half the base of the latter.
First ray of second dorsal the longest, upper margin of fin rather concave : the finlets commence
just posterior to second dorsal and anal fins and are opposite one another, they consist of a single
stem with branched rays. Pectoral short, nearly triangular. Caudal deeply lobed, each lobe being
pointed, and with two raised crests along either side of its base.

Scales — Extend over body to between the orbits, also on the cheeks : they are smaller
above than below the lateral line, and largest just beneath the pectoral fin : the first few
rows below the lateral line run parallel to it, those under pectoral are irregularly concave : there
are some minute scales over second dorsal and anal fins.

Lateral line — First describes a very slight curve, and then proceeds direct to the centre of the
caudal.

Colours — Back greenish, sides and abdomen iridescent, a row of sixteen spots along the
back, close to the base of the dorsal fin. Summit of head spotted : sides shot with bluish
purple. Dorsal fins yellowish, tipped with black. Caudal bright yellow, stained with black
at its extremity. Pectoral bright yellow. Ventral and anal finely dotted with black, which fades
soon after death, when all the shot colours also disappear, and it becomes of a dull green with
the abdomen of a lighter colour.

THE FISHES OF MALABAB. G9

Ail air bladder present.

Grows to about ten inches in length. It is captured in Cochin in enormous numbers from
January until May, its average size is abont seven and a half inches. Although excellent eating
when quite fresh, it soon taints and is rarely brought to the table of Europeans. It is commonly
salted, dried in the sun, and exported in bundles of about one thousand each, mostly to Ceylon.

Habitat — Ked Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia and China.

Genus CYBIUM, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, seven: pseudobranchias. Body oblong or rather elongate. Eyes lateral. Cleft of
mouth wide. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Two dorsals, the first extending
to commencement of the second, spinous, and not so developed as the second : seven or more pairs of
finlets behind second dorsal and anal fins. A slight ridge on either side of root of caudal lobes. Teeth
large and strong on jaws, villiform on vomer, palatine bones, and tongue. Air bladder present.

All the species of this genus are comprised under the common appellation of Seirjish by European resi-
dents in British India.

Cybium Commebsonii.

Scombee Commebsonii, Lac'ep. ii. p. 600, pi. 20, f. 1.

Konam, Bussell, pi. 135.

Cybium Commebsonii, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 165 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 108 ; Giinther, Catal.

ii. p. 370.
Chumbum, Mai. Seie fish.

B. vii. D. 16-17. | rf:^ | ix-x. P. 20-23. V. \. A. ^^ | ix-x. C. 17.

Length of head ft, of pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal ft, of base of second
dorsal (excluding finlets) ft, of anal (excluding finlets) *fe of total length. Height of head J, of
body ft, of first dorsal gbj* of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Oval, surrounded by a small circular adipose membrane. Horizontal diameter §,
vertical ft of length of head, 2 transverse diameters from end of snout, 1^ transverse diameters
apart.

Body elongate, tapering towards either extremity, both it and sides of head strongly com-
pressed, the latter also depressed : anteriorly the snout comes to a sharp point.

Month deeply cleft, upper jaw with rather a concave lower margin, produced in front ; lower
jaw nearly horizontal, with a fleshy protuberance at the symphysis. Vertical limb of intermax-
illaries very broad, the two conjoined having somewhat the appearance of the upper bill of a
rasorial bird. Maxilla extends to beneath the centre of the orbit. Preorbital narrow. Preopercle,
its posterior border rather concave along its centre, so that its angle t which is rounded appears
rather produced, its lower border rather more than half the length of its vertical one. Opercle
narrow. Cleft of gills very wide, extending to under the centre of the lower jaw. Upper surface of
head flat with a raised ridge along its centre. Nostrils in front of upper third of orbit, in a
depressed triangular space surrounded by rather raised margins.

70 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Teeth — Strong, lancet shaped, laterally compressed, those in the upper jaw varying in number
from fifteen to twenty-five, the posterior ones being rather the smallest. In the lower jaw there
are from ten to fifteen of the same shape, but the posterior ones are the largest. Villiform
teeth exist on the vomer in a small triangular space, which is somewhat rounded anteriorly, and a
long narrow band of two or three rows is found on the palatine bones.

Fins — Ventral arises opposite the first third of the pectoral and on a line with the first dorsal :
the second dorsal commences opposite the anal and midway between the centre of caudal fin and
the anterior exti'emity of the snout. The spines of the first dorsal are weak, and end in thin fila-
mentous points projecting beyond the membrane, which is deeply notched. Cantor observes that
" the anterior dorsal and anal fin rays are preceded by four spines, which however cannot be dis-
tinctly perceived without removing the covering scales and integuments." The second dorsal is
highest in front with its upper margin concave, it is situated opposite the anal which it resembles,
the unlets commence just behind them, and are continued opposite each other to the root of the
caudal. Ventral small. Pectoral pointed. Caudal with pointed lobes, its posterior margin
forming a semicircle ; each lobe with a raised soft ridge along its base, between which is the ter-
mination of the lateral line in the form of a raised soft horizontal keel.

Scales — Small, elongated, some exist on the second dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, and from the
infraorbitals round to the posterior margin of the orbit, also extending for a short distance over
the upper margin of the preopercle.

Lateral line — At first in upper third of body, makes a gradual and not very distinct curve to
opposite the twelfth or thirteenth dorsal ray, where it forms a sort of angle and then bends down,
making a second curve from opposite the first to the third pairs of fmlets, beyond which it passes
direct to the centre of the caudal, where it ends in a soft raised keel between the bases of the lobes.

Colours — Summit of head and back of a deep bluish purple, with golden green reflections,
lighter on the sides and body to a little beneath the lateral line ; the rest of the sides, the abdo-
men, opercles and cheeks, shining silvery with lilac reflections ; membrane of anterior dorsal fin
pale greyish lilac, minutely dotted with brown, upper margin black : second dorsal, anal, and their
spurious fins pale silvery lilac ; anal and its spurious fins with white margins : caudal silvery,
blackish ; ventrals white ; anterior half of pectorals white, posterior blackish ; between the gill
opening and the root of the tipper margin of the pectorals a large black spot. Iris silvery, bluish
black near the orbit. After death the sides above the lateral line acquire a number of close,
vertical, undulating lines and spots ; beneath the lateral line there are black lines, but fewer and
more distant.

Grows to four feet in length, and is inferior eating to the C. guttatum ; it should be dressed
when quite fresh ; salts well.

Habitat — From east and south coasts of Africa through the Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia
and China,

* Cybium LINEOLATUM.

Cybium lineolatum, Guv. & Val. viii. p. 170; Cantor, Catal. p. 110; Gunther, Catal.
ii. p. 370.

B. vii. D. 16 | 16 | ix. P. 21. V. J. A. rf.^ | x. C. 15.
Length of head J of 'otal length. Height of body ^ of total length.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 71

Eyes — Each having rather a broad circular adipose membrane, diameter § of length of head,
1^ diameters apart.

Teeth — On either side of both jaws are upwards of eighteen lancet shaped teeth, many of
which however are often absent. The middle ones in the lower jaw are the largest. On the
anterior part of the vomer appears a pointed triangular spot with velvety teeth, and on each palatine
and pterygoid bone a rather broad continued line of similar teeth. Others exist at the root
of the small oval flattened tongue, and on the margin and internal surface of each hyoid.

Fins — The spines of the dorsal fin are very slender, and the membrane is easily detached, so
as to leave the filamentous points of the anterior and the whole of the posterior five or six very
short spines unconnected. The anterior spine, scarcely equal to the diameter of the eye, is two-
thirds of the length of the second, which is shorter than the third. The fourth, the longest, is
one-fourth of the length of the head ; the rest gradually decrease ; the sixteenth is so short and
slender that it may easily escape observation. The anterior spurious fin is often connected by a
short membrane to the second dorsal and anal. Each caudal lobe equals the length of the head.
The length of the pectorals is two-seventeenths of the total length ; the ventrals one-third of the
pectorals.

Scales — Are placed as in the last species.

Lateral line — Consists of a series of short rectangular elevations, at first in upper fourth of
body, from whence it gradually deviates towards the termination of the second dorsal, and
again declines to below the middle of the body opposite the fifth finlet, where it ascends on to the
lateral keel.

Colours — The same as in the last species, the C. Commersonii. After death several series of
irregularly disposed black spots appear above the lateral line, whilst beneath it there are three or
four rows of longitudinal short linear spots, each resembling an interrupted Une.

Grows to two feet in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Cybium guttatum.

Scomber guttatus, Bl. Schn. p. 23. t. 5.

Wingeram, Russell, pi. 134.

Cybium guttatum, Guv. & Val. viii. p. 173; Cantor, Catal. p. 3 ; Giinther, Catal. ii.

p. 371.
Cybium Kuhlii, Cuv.& P^aZ. viii. p. 178, {young)
Arrakeeah, Mai. Seir Fish.

B. vii. D. 16-18 | 19-21 | viii-x. P. 15-21. V. J. A. 20-22 | vii-ix. C. 26.

Length of head ^, of pectoral fa, of caudal ^, of base of second dorsal (exclusive of finlets)
y^, of base of anal (exclusive of finlets) -^ of total length. Height of head J, of body £, of first
dorsal -fa, of second dorsal yq, of ventral ^, of anal tJq of total length.

Eyes — Oval, each surrounded by a circular adipose membrane, horizontal diameter T2r, vertical
J of length of head, nearly 2 diameters from end of snout, \\ diameters apart.

Body oblong, tapering off to both extremities, sides and head compressed.

Mouth wide, gradually expanding posteriorly : upper jaw very slightly convex, from about
its centre it is produced anteriorly when it tapers to a point : lower jaw longest, rather convex

72 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

along its extent, and slightly prominent at symphysis : the posterior extremity of maxilla extends
to beneath the posterior third of the orbit. Preorbitals, and opercles as in the C. Commersonii.
A moderately raised ridge extends along the centre of the head. Nostrils rather wide apart ; the
posterior, which is the largest, rather higher than the orbit : the anterior which is round, on a still
higher level.

Teeth — Lancet shaped and laterally compressed, about twenty in the upper, and fifteen in the
lower jaw in which latter they are the largest, whilst they increase in size posteriorly. Numerous
villiform teeth on vomer and palate.

Fins — First dorsal and ventral arise on a line, slightly posterior to the origin of the pectoral :
the second dorsal commences midway between the snout and the posterior margin of centre of
caudal fin : anal rather behind it. First dorsal spines weak and ending in soft points, the membrane
deeply notched. Second dorsal highest in front, with a concave upper margin : anal of the same
shape : the finlets commence close behind each of these fins and extend to the root of the caudal.
Pectoral rather pointed. Ventral small. Caudal deeply lobed with a soft elevated keel running
parallel with the base of either lobe.

Lateral line — Consisting of small rectangular elevations, proceeds nearly straight, at first in
upper fourth of body, but becomes more undulating opposite the commencement of the second
dorsal, and very much so opposite third and fourth finlets : between the keels along the base of
either caudal lobe is a triangular horizontal keel.

Colours — Generally the same as in the C. Commersonii, but after death numerous round
or oval spots of different sizes and irregularly scattered, appear in longitudinal rows along the
back and upper half of the sides. The membrane of the first seven or nine spines of the first
dorsal is black, that of the succeeding spines white minutely dotted with brown and edged with
black.

Grow to three and a half feet in length, -are good eating and salt well : but when under a
foot in length are dry, from two to two and a-half feet long they are in the best condition, above
that they become coarse. They should be dressed when quite fresh. They are also one of the
best fish for making " Tamarind fish." Are found in Malabar from October throughout the cold
months.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus NAUCEATES, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, seven: pseudobranchire. Body oblong, subcylindrical. Eyes lateral. Cleft of
mouth moderate. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Two dorsals, the first reduced
to a few free spines ; ventrals thoracic : no spurious fins : a keel on each side of tail. Villiform teeth on
jaws, vomer, and palatine bones. Air bladder small. Csecal appendages in moderate numbers.

* Naucrates DUCTOR.
Gasterosteus ductor, Linn. Syst. Nat. i. p. 489.

Naucrates ductor, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 312. pi. 232 ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 374.
Naucrates noveboracensis, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 325.
Naucrates Indicus, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 326.
Naucrates Koelreuteri, Cuv & Val. viii. p. 327.
The Pilot fish.

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 73

B. vii. D. 8-6 1^.^. P. 18. V. I A-t^Vt. C. 17. Csec. pylor. 12-15. Vert. ';;.

Length of head %, of pectoral ft, of ventral ft, of caudal £ of the total length. Height of
head £, of body |, of second dorsal ^ of total length.

Eyes— Each surrounded by a circular adipose membrane, diameter \ of the length of head,
and 1 diameter from end of snout.

The curve of the profile of the back is nearly equal to that of the abdomen.

Mouth moderately cleft, the lower jaw rather advanced beyond the upper : the posterior
extremity of maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit. Angle of preopercle
rounded, its border extremely finely crenulated : opercle striated in shallow grooves. The orifices
of the nostrils approximate, are close to the upper profile, and rather nearer to the end of the
mouth than they are to the eye.

Teeth — Villiform in both jaws, vomer, and palatine bones.

Fins— Pectoral oval and situated slightly below the middle line of the body ; ventrals close
together, and arise opposite the anterior third of the pectoral : first dorsal begins opposite end
of pectoral ; second dorsal, in middle of the body : anal, below centre of second dorsal. The first
dorsal consists of very small spines. The spine of the second dorsal is one-third the length of the
anterior rays which are the longest, and they gradually diminish to about the twelfth, the last two
or three are slightly prolonged. Ventral pointed, its spine two-thirds the length of the first ray.
Two small free spines before the anal.

Scales— Small on the top of the head, the cheeks, and over the body, except on a small spot
above the base of the pectoral fin, which is destitute of scales.

Lateral line — Consists of a straight series of very small elevations : above the pectoral it
forms a curve which descends to the centre of the body which it reaches below the anterior third
of the second dorsal, from whence it is continued straight to the centre of the caudal, where it
forms an horizontal elevated keel close to its base.

Colours— Bluish silvery grey, darkest towards the back ; large vertical blue or violet bands
pass down the body ; the number is generally five on the body, one on the head, and one on
the caudal fin. The first on the body is behind the opercle, the second passes down from the first
dorsal, the third from the anterior third of the second dorsal to before the anal, and the two last
from the second dorsal to the anal. Caudal dark blue tipped with black and margined with
pure white. Pectoral white with violet tip, ventral nearly black, with white points. Iris
golden.

Grows to one foot in length, and is good eating.

Habitat — Seas of India, and nearly all those of temperate and tropical regions.

Genus ELACATE, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, seven: pseudc-branchiae. Body elongated, fusiform ; head depressed. Eyes lateral.
Cleft of mouth moderately deep. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Two
dorsals, the first formed of eight small and free spines, the soft dorsal of greater extent than the spinous.
Ventrals thoracic ; no spurious fins, or keel on tail. ViUiform teeth on jaws, vomer, and palatine bones.
No air bladder. Cajcal appendages in enormous numbers, and subdividing into minute branches.

L

74 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Elacate NIGRA.

Scomber niger, Block, t. 337.

Pedda-mottah, Russell, pi. 153.

Elacate Pondiceriana, Guv. & Vol viii. p. 329 ; E. motta, ibid. p. 332 ; E. Mala-

barica, ibid. p. 332 ; E. Atlantica, ibid. p. 334 ; E. bivittata, ibid. p. 338 ;

Cantor, Catal. p. 116.
Elacate nigra, Giintker, Catal. ii. p. 375.

B.vii. D.8|MV6. P. 21. V.J. A.2522_. 0.17. Vert. -ft.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal 1%, of base of first dorsal \, of base of second
dorsal f, of base of anal J of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal ^, of
soft dorsal -J, of ventral j^ of total length.

Eyes — Close to line of profile, transversely oval, and each surrounded by a large circular adipose
membrane : horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter \ of length of head, 1 \ diameters from end
of snout, nearly 2 diameters apart.

Mouth wide, maxilla extending to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit : mandibuke
flat beneath : a slight tubercle at symphysis. Preorbital small, narrow, and rugose. Preopercle
with its inferior and posterior borders of equal length, and meeting at right angles, its surface
rather roughened. Opercle also with rough lines which commence from its anterior superior angle,
proceed downwards and backwards, and expand into a fan-shaped form. Upper surface of head
flat and lineated from two points, both of which are behind the eye, separated from one
another by a slight interval, but still not far from the central line of the head ; from these two
points fine raised lines radiate, joining behind at the occipital crest, and in front opposite the
anterior margin of the orbit, thus enclosing a lozenge-shaped space. Nostrils have two orifices
approximating, and in the first third of the distance between the eye and the end of the snout ;
gills open as far forwards as commissures of lips. Coracoid bone rough and well developed.

Teeth — In numerous villiform bands in both jaws, on a large oval space on vomer, and
in a long band on each palatine. There also exists an oval patch on the tongue which is wide :
skin of palate and side of tongue rough. Pharyngeal teeth villiform.

Fins— The commencement of the free dorsal spines in a line with the bases of the pectoral
and ventral. ' The anal begins under about the twelfth dorsal ray. The dorsal spines are short
and sharp with a very small membrane to each, they can be laid flat and extend as far as the base
of the soft dorsal. The soft portion of the dorsal commences opposite the posterior margin of the
pectoral, its anterior portion is the highest, and its upper margin is thus a little concave, whilst in
the last three-fourths of its course it follows the curve of the back, the last rays which are a little
prolonged do not extend quite as far as the base of the caudal. The anal is of the same form as
the dorsal, and they terminate opposite each other, leaving about one eighth of the posterior
extremity of the body finless. The pectoral is situated low down and is rather large and pointed.
The ventrals are small and pointed, the spine fine and the external ray the longest. The caudal
emarginate, with the lower lobe the shortest.

Scales — Minute, extending over the body, each side of occiput, opercles, cheeks, and base of
caudal, also a few fine ones over the soft dorsal and anal.

Lateral line — With slight undulations, curved slightly downwards until opposite the com-
mencement of the anal from whence it is continued to centre of caudal and on to its termination.

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 75

Colours— Ground colour of a dark olivaceous brown, with a light band from orbit to root of
caudal, next a dark one from the shoulder to the caudal, below which it becomes lighter towards
the abdomen, where it has a slight silvery tint. All the fins are brownish, the pectorals being
stained with black, the ventrals with grey, the caudal also with blackish grey, and the external
corners of the lobes tipped with white.

Grows to two feet in length : and is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat— Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and Japan. The tropical parts of the Atlantic,
extending along the shores of the United States.

Genus ECHENEIS, Artedi.

Branchiostegals, eight : pseudobranchiae. Body elongate, fusiform. Eyes lateral or directed down-
wards and outwards. Cleft of mouth wide. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Head
depressed. The spinous dorsal modified to an adhesive disk on the summit of head and neck. Ventrals
thoracic : no finlets, or keel on the tail. Teeth villiform on jaws, vomer, palatine bones, and generally
on the tongue. Scales very small. No air bladder. Pyloric appendages in moderate numbers.

EcHENEIS NAUCEATES.

Echeneis nauceates, Linn. Syst. i. p. 446 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 199 ; Giiniher, Catal.

ii. p. 384.
Ala mottah, Russell, pi. 49.

PUTTHOO MUD AY, Mai.

B. vii. D. 22-25 | 33-41. P. 20. Y.\. A. ^| ^. C. 17.

Length of head rather more than \, of pectoral \, of base of second dorsal \, of base of anal -L,
of caudal \ of total length. Height of head ^, of body \, of second dorsal TVf, of anal T^, of
ventral ^ of total length.

Eyes — Oval, looking obliquely outwards and downwards, horizontal diameter \, and vertical
diameter \ of length of head, 2J diameters apart superiorly, but inferiorly only 2 : 2 diameters
from end of upper jaw.

Body — Cylindrical, tapering off to the tail. Upper surface of head covered by a flattened
oval disk, rather widest posteriorly, one fifth of the total length, and two and a-half times as long as
wide, containing usually if not invariably in Malabar specimens twenty-two transverse laminae with
dentated or spiny teeth on the posterior margin of each, and also a central wide tooth, or smooth
bony elevation between each near their centres, so that a vacuum can be created along the whole
extent of the disk, or only in one-half. The most anterior of the laminae are directed slightly
forwards, the second quarter are nearly transverse, and the posterior go backwards, the difference
between each succeeding one being very gradual. External to this disk is a wide fleshy membrane,
which posteriorly extends over the occiput, but anteriorly does not reach to the end of the upper
jaw j the whole acting as a sucker.

Mouth — Oblique, maxilla extending about as far as the anterior margin of orbit. Mandibular

l 2

7g THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

pointed and covered superiorly with numerous rows of villiform teeth in a triangular space in
advance of the upper jaw, which is pointed. The lower jaw has a soft tip. Opercle rounded with
some striated ridges on it. Nostrils rather nearer to angle of mouth than to the anterior superior

angle of the orbit.

p;ns Pectoral situated over the posterior margin of the opercle, and opposite posterior

quarter of the bony disk. Ventral slightly posterior to it. Second dorsal commences midway
between anterior extremity and base of caudal, anal opposite to it. First dorsal forming portion
of the disk. Second dorsal and anal opposite one another, both highest in front with rather
concave margins, and the last rays slightly produced. Ventral pointed, and placed almost
horizontally. Caudal with its posterior margin straight, but having four short notches at its
extremity : one-ninth of the body fmless, between the last dorsal and anal rays, and the base of

the caudal fin.

gcales — Minute, closely adherent to the skin, their longest diameter transverse.

Lateral line — Eather undulating, passing slightly downwards to the centre of the body which
it attains between the anal and second dorsal fins.

Colours Generally brownish grey, with the external margins of the caudal, and the anterior

tips of the dorsal and anal fins edged with white. Pectoral of a deep brown, centre of caudal

nearly black.

Not rare in Malabar, where they are found of all sizes up to a foot, or even to two feet in
length. Are frequently captured attached to sharks, and eaten by the Natives.

Habitat— Seas of India, and all those of temperate and tropical regions.

Genus STROMATEUS, Artedi.

Peprilus, Cuvier.
Apolectus, Cuv. & Val.
Rhombus, Cuv. & Val.
Seseeinus, Cuv. & Val.

Branchiostegals, from five to seven : pseudobranchiae. Body compressed, more or less elevated.
Eyes lateral. Cleft of mouth narrow, or of moderate width. Infraorbitals do not articulate with pre-
opercle. A single long dorsal and anal fin having rudimentary spines anteriorly. No ventral fins in the
adult. Teeth in a single series on the margin of the jaws : palate and tongue smooth : oesophagus armed
with numerous bony barbed teeth. Scales small, covering vertical fins. No air bladder. Pyloric appen-
dages numerous.

Stromateus SINENSIS.

Stromateus sinensis, Euphrasen, Vetensk. Acad. Nya Handl. Stockh. ix. p. 49, t. 9 ;

Bl. Schn. p. 492 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 140.
Atookoia, Russell, pi. 44.

Stromateus atous, Cuv. & Val. ix. p. 389 ; Gilnther, Catal. ii. p. 399.
Stromateus albus, Cuv. & Val. ix. p. 388.
Vella arwoolee, Mai. White Pomfret.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 77

B.vi. D. T3l„. P. 23-27. V. J. A. ^.^ C. 17.

Length of head J, of pectoral fa of caudal ^, of baso of dorsal upwards of J, of base of
anal ^ of total length. Height of head \, of body §, of dorsal \, of anal £ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, § of a diameter from end of snout, If diameters apart.

Mouth in central line : the maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of tho orbit.
Opercles striated from above downwards and backwards, the preopercle downwards and forwards.
Nostrils approximating, overhanging the snout, and placed above the level and in front of tho orbit.

Teeth — A single row of excessively minute and closely set teeth in each jaw.

Fins — Dorsal commences over the pectoral, and anal opposite the posterior third of the
pectoral. The dorsal rays gradually increase, the tenth being the longest, from whence the fin
descends, and has a concave upper margin : four spines are hidden in the flesh before the anal and
dorsal fins. The anal is the same shape as the dorsal. The caudal lobed, with the lobes of equal
size : the pectoral rather pointed.

Scales — Small and very deciduous, extending over the vertical fins and head.

Lateral line — In upper fifth of body, at first it irregularly ascends, and curves slightly upwards,
but opposite the end of dorsal it passes straight to the centre of the caudal fin.

Colours — Upper surface of head and body as far as the lateral line of a deep neutral tint, the
rest of the body with a mixture of brownish grey, having metallic reflections, lighter and silvery
towards the abdomen. It is dotted all over with brown, the larger spots having a silvery point in
their centres. Fins silvery grey, marginal half blackish. Cavity of the mouth and tongue pale
bluish grey with brown dots, silvery in the centre. Iris reddish silver or copper coloured, minutely
dotted with brown.

This species of Pomfret is that most esteemed for eating : in Malabar it is by no means rare
during the S.W. monsoon (from June till September). It should be cooked when quite fresh.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Stromateus argenteus.

Stromateus argenteus, Block, xii. p. 92, t. 421 ; Russell, pp. 31, 35 ; Cuv. & Vol. ix.

p. 393 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 142 ; Gilnther, Catal. ii. p. 400.
Stromateus securifer, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 394, pi. 273 {young).
Stromateus candidus, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 391.
Tella sandawa, Russell, pi. 42.
Silver Pomfret.

B. to. D. 5-9 | 3J.43. P. 25-27. A. 6 | v^fI. C. 16.

Length of head f , of pectoral J, of caudal £ of total length. Height of body \, of dorsal \, of
anal \ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter f of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Lower jaw the longest, the maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of orbit. Snout
projecting over the mouth.

Teeth — In a close single row in either jaw, largest in the inferior.

Fins — The second dorsal commences slightly posterior to the origin of the pectoral, and opposite
the anal. The spines of the first dorsal in the adult are truncated superiorly, as are also those of
the anal. The anterior extremities of the dorsal and anal are elevated and falcated, whilst the

78 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

posterior portion of each is parallel to the profiles of the back and the abdomen. Pectoral rather
prominent in the adult, rounded in the young. Caudal deeply lobed. No ventral fin in adult
specimens.

Scales — Small and very deciduous.

Lateral line — As in the S. sinensis.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back as low as the lateral line of a greyish neutral tint
with purplish reflections, sides of head and body silvery grey, fading to white on the abdomen, and
everywhere covered with minute black dots. A dark spot on upper portion of opercle. Dorsal and
anal grey minutely dotted with black, the outer half being the darkest. Caudal and pectoral yel-
lowish white also minutely dotted with black, the outer half being the darkest. Iris silvery.

Grows to ten inches in length, and is much esteemed for eating, but is not so good as the
S. sinensis.

Habitat. Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Stromateus cinereus.

Stromateus cinereus, Block, xii. p. 90, t. 420, {middle age) ; Cantor, Catal. p. 143 ;

Giintker, Catal. ii. p. 400.
Sudi sandawah, Russell, pi. 45, {young).
Stromateus griseus, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 395.
Grey Pomfret.

B. vii. D. 7-8 | ■„*&. P. 23-25. A. 5. | w.^. C. 17-10.

Length of head \, of pectoral f , of lower lobe of caudal \, of upper lobe of caudal \, of base of
second dorsal § , of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head y, of body ^, of second dorsal |,
of anal rather more than i of total length.

Eyes — Diameter rather more than \ of length of head, ^ a diameter from end of snout, rather
more than 1 diameter apart.

Lower jaw considerably the longest, the maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of the
transverse diameter of the orbit. Nostrils projecting over the snout.

Teeth — In a fine single row in each jaw.

Fins — The spines of the first dorsal appear above the skin in a truncated form, as do also those
of the anal. Both the dorsal and anal are pointed anteriorly, the latter being the most produced.
The pectoral is long and pointed. The lower lobe of the caudal equals the length of the body and
head.

Scales — Small, very deciduous and extended over the vertical fins.

Lateral line — As in S. sinensis.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back, also the sides above the lateral line of a leaden grey :
cheeks and opercles silvery, an irregular black spot on opercle. Sides of body beneath the lateral
line light grey, becoming silvery white on the abdomen. Dorsal and anal grey with minute black
dots, their margins and points blackish. Pectoral buff. Caudal of a light orange with minute
black dots : margins and points of lobes blackish. Iris silvery, orbital half, leaden grey.

Grows to eight inches in length : is good eating, but inferior to the £. argenteus. It is not
rare in Malabar.

Habitat — Seas of India, and Malaysia.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 79

StROMATEUS NIGER.

Steomateus niger, Block, xii. p. 93. t. 422; Cuv. & Vol. xi. p. 385; Cantor, Catal. p.

139 ; Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 401.
Nala sandawaii, Russell, pi. 43.
Apolectus stromateus, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 439, pi. 328, (young) ; Cantor, Catal.

p. 123.
Kar arwoolee, Mai. Black Pomfret.

B.vii. D.^„. P. 22. A. 3^. C.19.

Length of head § , of pectoral nearly \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal f of
total length. Height of head §, of body \, of dorsal -f±, of anal j\ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, nearly 2 diameters
apart.

The profiles of the back and of the abdomen are about equally curved : the body from the
posterior extremities of the dorsal and anal fins to the base of caudal is cylindrical.

Mouth situated opposite about the centre of the body, the lower jaw the longest: the
maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit. Preopercle entire. Opercle ending
in a dull obtuse poiut. Nostrils anterior and superior to orbit.

Teeth — In a fine single series in both jaws.

Fins — The dorsal commences a little behind the pectoral, and opposite the anal. The dorsal
and anal are much elevated anteriorly, very low posteriorly, with concave external margins.
Pectorals long and falciform. Ventrals only apparent in the young, in a specimen 3t3q inches in
length, the ventrals are jugular and one eighth of the total length. The spines before the dorsal
and anal fins, which are concealed in the adidt fish, are apparent in the immature.

Scales — Small, extending over body, head, opercles, and vertical fins, but not over snout, or
on the lower jaw.

Lateral line — At first in upper third of body from whence it gently curves downwards, and in
its last fourth passes straight to the centre of the caudal, in. the form of a raised keeled line with
lateral shields as is perceived in the Carangidce.

Colours — Deep brown or greyish brown with blue reflections. Cheeks, opercles and abdomen
pale neutral tint or brownish neutral. Dorsal and anal greyish brown, stained black towards the
margins. Pectoral and caudal brownish, edged with black. Iris brownish blue. The young is
grey, the dorsal and anal fins black and the caudal yellow, with three brown cross bands, the most
posterior of which is at its base.

Grows to two feet in length, is excellent eating. In the Straits it is dried and largely
exported to India and elsewhere. It appears in Malabar about the same time as the S. sinensis,
it comes in shoals and disappears as suddenly as it arrives.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

80 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fam. CABANGIDJi.
Genus CAEANX, Cuv. & Vol,

Olistus, scyeis, blephaeis, gallichthys, et hynnis, Cuv. & Vol.

Megalaspis, decapteeus, selae, caeangoides, lieglossus, ueaspis, selaeoides et

gnathanodon, Bleeker.
Cabangus, Gimrd.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranehiae. Body oblong or elevated, and more or less compressed.
Eyes lateral. Cleft of mouth moderate. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Two
dorsals, the first having in front of it a recumbent immoveable spine directed forwards, the spinous less
developed than the soft dorsal or anal, which are of nearly equal extent : whilst several of the posterior
rays of both these last fins may be detached from the rest (Megalaspis, Bleeker), or only one (Decapterus,
Bleeker). Two spines separated by an interspace from but in front of anal fin. Ventrals thoracic. Teeth
disposed in various manners, and in some species the dentition changing with age. Scales small.
Lateral line continuous, and curved anteriorly, with its posterior portion straight, and mailed with scaly
plates, each of which is keeled and has a spinate termination. Air bladder bifurcated posteriorly. Pyloric
appendages numerous.

a. With eight or nine detached rays, behind dorsal and anal fins.
Caeanx Eottleei.

Scombee Eottleei, Block, x. p. 40, t. 346.
Woeagoo, Russell, pi. 143.

Caeanx Eottleei, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 29; Cantor, Catal. p. 124; Guntlier, Catal. ii.
p. 424.

B. vii. D. 8 |TJTTviii.-ix. P. 21. Y.\. A. 2 | s'5 vii.-viii. C. 18. Keel 55. Vert, jf

Length of head §, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal \, of base of second dorsal
(excluding free rays) y, of base of anal (excluding free rays) -j^r of total length. Height of head ^,
of body § , of first dorsal TJT, of second dorsal ^, of anal |7, of ventral ^ of total length.

Eyes — Rather close to profile, diameter ^ of length of bead, 1 diameter from end of snout,
1 diameter apart.

Body compressed, with a raised keel along the vertical portion of the lateral line. A gradual
rise from the snout to the first dorsal.

Lower jaw the longest : the maxilla extends to beneath the centre of the orbit.

Teeth — Villiform in a single series except at tbe centre of the jaw.

Fins — Pectoral and ventral in a line. First dorsal arises over the anterior fourth of pectoral,
second dorsal over posterior fourth of pectoral : anal opposite ninth ray of dorsal. First dorsal
triangular, with a procumbent spine in front, the interspinous membrane scarcely notched ; both it
and the anal spines can be received into grooves. Second dorsal highest in front, with from eight
to nine free rays extending posteriorly as far as the root of the caudal. Pectoral falciform extend-
ing to the twenty-fifth plate of lateral line. The second of the two spines before the anal the
longest : the anterior rays of the anal higher than the posterior : eight or nine free rays behind the
anal fin. Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Small on the body, but not so over the head or before the ventral fin.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 81

Lateral line — First passes in the form of small round scales upwards, then below the third
spine of the first dorsal bends suddenly downwards, and from opposite the first third of the pectoral
proceeds straight to the caudal, in the forni of a raised sharp keel, which becomes more prominent
as the tail is approached, where each of these scales have broad lateral processes.

Colours — Back glossy green, abdomen silvery white tinged with yellow. A large black spot
on the upper and posterior part of opercles. Pectoral, ventral, and anal yellow. Dorsals and
caudal tipped with black, and the posterior edge of the caudal also stained dark.

Common, but not frequently seen above nine inches in length, although sometimes it attains
eleven. Not much esteemed as food by Europeans, but employed for such by the Natives.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India and Malaysia.

b. With one detached ray behind dorsal and anal fins.
Caranx KURRA.
KURRA WODAGAWAH, RllSSell, pi. 139.

Caranx kurra, Cuv. & Veil. ix. p. 44 (not Giinther).

B. vii. D. 8 | sVj | i. P. 25. V. \. A. 2 | 2T I i- 0. 17. L. 1. 33.

Length of head rather above \, of pectoral i, of caudal -J, of base of first dorsal \, of base of
second dorsal \, of base of anal f of the total length. Height of head ^, of body jt, of first dorsal y,
of second dorsal ^, of anal ^j, of ventral ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter 1 of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body and head of equal height, tapering off opposite the commencement of the second
dorsal.

Mouth oblique, lower jaw compressed and the longest : the posterior extremity of the maxilla
extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit : the intermaxillaries considerably protractile.
Preorbital broad, with four or five radiating ridges. Preopercle as broad as high, its angle rounded.
Opercle with an emargination on its posterior border, and six ridges arising from its anterior
superior margin proceeding backwards and downwards. A moderately strong longitudinal ridge
extends along the centre of the upper surface of the skull. Nostrils approximating : the posterior
bean-shaped and larger than the anterior, which is round.

Teeth — A single row of sharp recurved teeth in both jaws : a triangular spot of teeth at
anterior extremity of vomer, with a narrow row proceeding posteriorly from its centre, a row of
teeth on either palatine bone : three rows of sharp recurved teeth along the centre of the tongue.

Fins — The first dorsal commences opposite the anterior fourth of the pectoral, which last is
falcate, and reaches as far as opposite the free anal spines : ventral arises rather posterior to the origin
of the pectoral ; its spine is weak : anal free spines of equal length : anal fin commences opposite the
sixth ray of the second dorsal. First dorsal nearly triangular, spines weak, the third the longest.
Third ray of second dorsal the longest, as is also the third ray of the anal. The last ray of both
the second dorsal and of the anal detached. Caudal with deeply pointed lobes.

Scales — Exist over the whole of the body, chest, upper surface of the head as far as to opposite
the orbits, and the upper portions of both opercle and preopercle.

Lateral line — Nearly straight until opposite the end of the first dorsal, it then slopes down-
wards, and under the fifteenth ray of the second dorsal passes direct in a keeled line to the centre
of the caudal : the mailed scales are at first but moderately so, the broadest equal one quarter of
the height of the body.

M

82 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Colours — Deep bluish green or plumbaceous above, and silvery white beneath. A deep black
spot exists on the upper margin of the opercle, and the upper surface of the head is minutely
dotted with black. Fins yellow, the dorsal and caudal fins with some fine black dots, especially
at their margins. Iris golden.

Habitat — Seas of India and Eed Sea.

c. None of the posterior rays of dorsal or anal fins detached.
1 . None of the fin rays elongated.

Caranx MATE.

Caranx mate, Cuv. & Veil. ix. p. 54 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 125.
Caranx xanthurus, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 55 ; Giintlier, Catal. ii. p. 434.
Batta parra, Mai.

B. vii. D. 8 | L>V P. 20. V. i. A. 2 | TV L. 1. 40-45.

Length of head § , of pectoral nearly \, of caudal more than \, of base of first dorsal ^j, of
base of second dorsal -Jr, of base of anal f of total length. Height of head \, of body nearly ^,
of first dorsal ^j, of second dorsal \, of ventral jq, of caudal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Each with an adipose covering extending for one third across either side, and a vertical
elliptical opening : diameter ^ length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter
apart.

Body elliptical, but becoming more elongated posteriorly. Upper and lower profile equally
curved.

Mouth rather oblique, lower jaw longest, a tubercle at symphysis, the posterior extremity
of the maxilla reaches to under the anterior third of the orbit. Opercle twice as high as broad,
lower or posterior-inferior margin rather concave in the centre : subopercle very narrow superiorly :
preopei'cle wide ; preorbital rather wide, with three or four radiating ridges. A rather high long
ridge runs along the centre of the skull, and above the orbit there is another parallel with it, which
at the summit of the orbit divides posteriorly into two. Nostrils single, at the anterior superior
margin of the orbit, and at a short distance from it, close to the origin of the elevated ridges on
the head.

Teeth — A fine single band of villiform ones in both jaws, a single row in palatines, and the
same in a triangular spot on the vomer. Some fine teeth along the centre of the tongue.

Fins — Pectoral ai-ises opposite the most concave portion of the lower margin of the opercle,
and on a line with the ventral ; the first dorsal being slightly posterior to it, and the second dorsal
rather nearer the snout than the base of the caudal. Anal commences opposite eighth dorsal ray.
First dorsal triangular, with a horizontal spine in front : first spine half the height of the second,
which is the longest, from whence they decrease rapidly to the last : membrane rather deeply
notched. First two rays of the second dorsal undivided ; the upper margin of the fin slopes
off gradually backwards, the last ray is l'ather prolonged. Pectoral falcate, and reaching to
opposite the eleventh ray of the second dorsal. Ventral spine weak. Of the free anal spines, the
first is rather more than twice as long as the second. The lower border of the anal fin is at first
rather concave, but after the sixth ray it is parallel to the abdomen ; its last ray is prolonged.
Caudal rather deeply lobed, the upper one being usually the longest, and rather exceeding the
length of the head. The portion of the tail, which is finless, equals the base of the first dorsal fin.

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 83

Scales — Small, covering- the body and chest, and a few exist on the upper part of the opercle,
also a row along the bases of the soft dorsal and anal.

Lateral line — Rather strongly curved anteriorly, where the height it rises to is equal to more
than one-third of its length, this curved portion ceases opposite about the fifth ray of the second
dorsal, where it becomes straight and keeled, but the alteration to the commencement of the plates
is so gradual that it is difficult to decide exactly where they begin; they become gradually
broader, the widest being one-eighth the height of the body ; the ridge is elevated, and especially
sharp near the tail.

Colours — Generally silvery gold, with bluish green on the back and a large round black spot
at the upper and posterior surface of the opercle. Fins yellow, except the first dorsal which has a
dark tinge, as has also the upper lobe of the caudal. Iris silvery, the adipose lid to eye of a pah'
amber.

Grows to ten inches in length ; very common in Malabar, and is good eating.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia, also from the Seychelles to New Guinea.

* Caeanx kalla.

Caranx kalla, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 49.
Caranx calla, Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 433.

B. vii. D. 8 | 23.W V. l. A. 2 | jJ.20. L. 1. 42-44.

Length of head l of total length. Height of head £, of body f of total length. It is three
times as thick as high, and the abdominal profile is more convex than that of the back.

The lower jaw extends very slightly beyond the upper, and the maxilla reaches to beyond the
anterior margin of the orbit.

Teeth — In the jaws are disposed in a single row : there are teeth on the vomer, the palatine
bones, and on the tongue.

Fins — The last ray of the dorsal, and also of the anal, is slightly longer than the rest, from
which it is rather detached.

Scales — Small and extending over the chest.

Lateral line — Curved to opposite the commencement of the second dorsal, becoming straight
under the third or fifth ray ; the plates are well developed and occupy the whole of its horizontal
portion.

Colours— Bluish green above, shot with silver, sides and abdomen silvery, with nacreous
reflections. The tail and the caudal fin brilliant yellow, the upper lobe being tinged with green :
the other fins white, excepting the dorsal which has some black upon it. Dr. Giinther states that
the opercular spot is distinct.

Grows to two feet in length.

Habitat— Red Sea, Seas of India and China.

Caranx melanostethos. Plate VI.

Caranx melanostethos, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 23.

B. vii. D. 8 | J5. P. 19. V. \. A. 2 I Jg. C. 19. L. 1. 28.

Length of head % , of pectoral £, of base of first dorsal T2T, of base of second dorsal $ of

m 2

84 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

caudal § of total length. Height of body \, of head i, of first dorsal fa, of second dorsal T]g, of
ventral -j^, of anal -^j of total length.

Eyes — Horizontal diameter J, vertical diameter \ of length of head, § of a diameter apart, and
the same distance from end of snout. A membraneous curtain extends \ across either side of eye.

Lower jaw slightly the longest, intermaxillaries moderately protrusible. The superior
maxillary extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit. Preorbital small, with two
slightly raised straight lines on its posterior part. Preopercle oblique, angle rounded, inferior
margin convex. Subopercle large and entire.

Teeth — Two to three bands of fine villiform teeth in intermaxillaries, and superior half of
upper jaw, the same also exist in the lower jaw. A triangular space — convex anteriorly — of
rather sharp teeth on vomer, and commencing from its posterior margin a straight single row of
sharp teeth, the two thus covering a somewhat T-shaped spot. A fine row on the palatine bones.

Fins — Pectorals rather in advance of the origins of dorsal and ventral. Anal arises under
second dorsal. First dorsal triangular : second dorsal highest in front, where it exceeds
that of the first dorsal. Pectoral falciform, reaching to nearly opposite anal. Caudal deeply lobed.
Dorsal spines weak, third slightly the longest. First ray of second dorsal the longest. Fifth or
sixth ray of pectoral longest. Ventral spine weak. Of the two anal spines, the second is the longest
and strongest. Spine of anal fin weak, first ray the longest. There is a deep membraneous sheath
at the base of the dorsal and of the anal fins.

Scales — Cover the whole of the body, as well as under the eye and upper part of opercle.

Lateral line — Is at first moderately curved, from opposite the eighth dorsal ray it passes
direct, but the laminated scales do not begin until opposite the thirteenth ray, they are well marked
but not very strong, the widest being nearly equal to half the diameter of the eye.

Colours — Back leaden blue, which below the lateral line becomes silvery white. The forepart
of the chest, throat, the opercles, summit of head, and upper jaw, deep brownish black, which
sometimes remains after death, on all these places there are numerous black spots, and dots. Fins
tinged with yellow. Second dorsal deeply stained with black and margined with white on its first
eight rays, the rest of the fin and anal stained with brown, and dotted with black points, as are
also the membraneous sheaths to the fins. Eyes silvery : curtains brown.

Grows to upwards of a foot in length and is good eating. Mostly taken in Malabar during
the cold season.

Habitat — Malabar, where it is common. It is also found on the Coromandel coast.

Caeanx SPECIOSUS.

Scombee speciosus, Forsh. 54, No. 70.
Poloosoo paeah, Russell, pi. 149.

Caeanx speciosus, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 130; Cantor, Catal. p. 133; Giinther, Catal.
ii. p. 444.

B.vii. D. 7-8 j x^-W- P- 20-22. V. £. A. 2 | „}re. L. 1. 34.

Length of head \, of pectoral f, of base of first dorsal ^, of base of second dorsal \, of
base of anal f of total length. Height of head § , of body \, of first dorsal |, of second dorsal j,
of ventral \, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — With a narrow adipose lid on anterior and posterior sides, diameter ^ of length of head,
1 diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

PLATE VI.

.,.

.-£. "«

«

»

/•'/',,,. ,/,/,,! .•;■„/,,.

C \ R \ N X M K LAN O S T K T II d S

THE FI8IIES OF MALABAR. 85

Body elliptical, the upper and lower profiles equally convex, but its caudal end more produced
than its anterior extremity.

Mouth oblique, upper jaw rather concave laterally : the posterior extremity of the maxilla
reaches to below the centre of the orbit. Preorbital wide, its upper portion having a festooned
edge of ridges directed downwards. Opercle, its lower margin straight. Subopercle high and
narrow. Preopercle rather concave posteriorly, owing to its angle being slightly produced, lower
margin forming a curve continuous with the angle. Nostrils approximating and near the upper
third of the orbit. Longitudinal crest along upper surface of head well developed, lateral ridges
but moderately so.

Teeth — In young specimens several rows of villiform teeth in upper jaw, with an external row
of strong ones : a single row of irregularly sized ones in the lower jaw : small and villiform on
vomer and palate. Cantor observes that when " nine inches in length no teeth appear except a
small distinct one on either side of symphysis of the lower jaw."

Fins — The pectoral arises under the inferior third of opercle, and extends posteriorly to oppo-
site the second anal ray : the first dorsal commences over the first third of the pectoral, and the
second rather nearer to the snout than to the base of the caudal : the anal begins under the fifth
dorsal ray. Pectoral pointed, scarcely falcate. First dorsal triangular, its spines weak, and its
membrane deeply notched ; a procumbent spine in front of its base very distinct in the young : its
first spine is half the height of the second, which is one third shorter than the third, the longest in
the fin. Second dorsal, with its first rays undivided and the highest portion of the fin, it decreases in
height as far as the ninth, from whence it is parallel to the back. Ventral spine weak. Anal free
spines, the second longest and strongest. Anal fin, its spine moderately strong and one-third the
length of the first ray, the first six of which are the highest portion of the fin, decreasing obliquely
and posteriorly, whilst the rest of the rays are parallel to the abdomen. Caudal rather deeply lobed.
The portion of the tail uncovered by fin equals in length the diameter of the eye.

Scales — Small, extending over body, chest and cheeks.

Lateral line — First proceeds obliquely upwards and backwards to opposite sixth spine of the
dorsal, it then curves downwards to opposite the sixth dorsal ray, from whence it becomes straight
and keeled, the size of the scales increasing in strength, and the edges more raised, the height of
the widest plate being equal to one-ninth of the height of the body.

Colours — Generally of a beautiful bright golden, having a greenish tinge along the upper
surface of the back : six vertical greenish grey bands pass downwards to the abdomen, and a
seventh is situated at the base of the caudal : the first vertical band commences above the eye : the
upper and posterior part of opercle with a dark spot. The first dorsal dark, minutely and closely
dotted with fine brown points, the centre of the last five interspinous membranes having the least.
Second dorsal and caudal tipped with darkish grey. The anal golden. Eye with a shade of brown.
As the age of the fish increases its colours fade considerably.

Grows to three feet in length.

Habitat — Eed Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and Philippine islands.

* Caeanx para.
Caranx para, Guv. & Val. ix. p. 58.

B. vii. D. 7 | 2V A. 2 | 2V L. 1. 36-40.

gg THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Length of head-fc. of pectoral ± of the total length. Height of head T33, of body & of the
total length. The thickness of the body is f- in its height.

Eyes — Diameter more than ^ length of head.

Teeth — With difficulty to be perceived.

Lateral line— Moderately curved, and under the anterior fifth of second dorsal passes straight
towards the centre of the caudal : there are from thirty-six to forty mailed and keeled scales along
this last portion of the lateral line.

Grows to four and a half inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India.

* Caeanx ekala.

Caeanx ekala, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 117.
Ekalah paea, Russell, pi. 146.

B. vii. D. 7 | tV- P. 20. V. i. A. 2 | xV- C. 25. L. 1. 2G.

Length of head nearly \, of pectoral more than £, of caudal § of total length. Height of body

^ of total length.

Teeth— In upper jaw form a villiform band, with an external larger row ; those in the lower jaw
form a single series stronger than the external row in the upper jaw.

Fins Pectoral falcate : the anterior margins of both second dorsal and anal elevated, rather

exceeding half the height of the body ; caudal deeply forked.

Scales_Small, extending over body, chest, and along the suborbital ring of bones.

Lateral line— Forms a curve to opposite the anterior third of the second dorsal, from whence
there are about twenty-six mailed and keeled scales along its straight portion.

Colours— Summit of head green, the cheeks, opercles, and breast pearly. The back golden
shot with green, blue, and purple : sides pearly : abdomen yellowish white : dorsal and upper
lobe of caudal an obscure green : pectorals transparent : ventral, anal, and lower lobe of caudal
yellow.

Grows to upwards of a foot in length.

Habitat — Seas of India.

Caeanx hippos.

Scombee hippos, Linn. Sys. Nat. i. p. 494.

Wotim paeah, Russell, pi. 148.

Caeanx sem, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 105.

Caeanx Foesteei, Guv. & Val.ix. p. 107; Cantor, Catal.p. 127.

? Caeanx Peronii, Guv.& Vol. ix. p. 112.

Caeanx Lessonii, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 113.

Caeanx Belengeeii, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 116.

Caeanx Hebeei, Cuv.& Vol. ix. p. 119.

Scomber Hebeei, Bennett, pi. 26.

Caeanx hippos, Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 449.

B.vii. D. 7-8 1^-W P. 20. Y.\. A. 2 | ^^J- C. 21. L. 1. 27-31.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 87

Length of head \, of pectoral f, of caudal |, of base of first dorsal ], of base of second dorsal
rather more than J, of anal ^ of total length. Eeight of head ], of body lt, of first dorsal }„ of
second dorsal ^, of ventral §, of anal T^ of total length.

Eyes — Each with a small adipose lid along their anterior and posterior margins. Diameter
A- of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body elliptical, decreasing considerably posteriorly ; profile, from the snout to the hori-
zontal spine in front of the first dorsal fin, forming the segment of a circle ; from the commence-
ment of the second dorsal there is a gradual slope. The finless portion of the tail is straight and
cylindrical : the lower profile of the head and abdomen not so much curved as that of the back.

Mouth oblique and deep : the maxilla extends backwards to opposite the posterior third of
orbit : the lower jaw has a tubercle at its symphysis. Preorbital twice as long as deep, with a
raised portion in its upper half, which is stellated inferiorly. Preopercle rather more than twice
as high as wide, posterior limb nearly vertical, and the angle rounded : inferior limb slightly
oblique. Opercle twice as high as wide with a slight emargination in the upper portion of its
posterior margin. Central crest on the head well developed and the lateral ridges more moderately
so. Nostrils approximating, situated opposite the upper third of the orbit, from whence they are
only one-third of the distance from the orbit to the snout.

Teeth — In upper jaw an external rather widely separated conical row, with a villiform series
posteriorly ; in the lower jaw a single series intermixed with conical ones.

Fins — Pectoral and ventral commence on a line, the first dorsal slightly posteriorly, and the
second dorsal midway between the snout and the external margin of the centre of the caudal. The
two anal spines are situated under the commencement of the second dorsal, and the anal fin
opposite the sixth or seventh dorsal ray. First dorsal triangular, spines weak, the whole being
capable of being laid flat in a groove ; the third spine is the highest, the upper margin rather
rounded, and the last spine terminates close to the second dorsal. In front of the first dorsal is a
horizontal spine hidden in the integument. The first ray of the second dorsal is the longest, after
which they rapidly decrease to the seventh, from whence they continue about the same height,
the last being slightly prolonged : its upper margin is at first concave : a low sheath exists along
its base. Pectoral falcate, the fourth and fifth rays the longest. Ventral spine weak. The
second of the two anal spines the longest. Spine of anal fin rather more than one-third the
height of the first ray : shape of the fin the same as that of the second dorsal, with a short sheath
along its base. Caudal deeply lobed in its posterior three-fifths, with a slight soft raised keel along
the base of each lobe. The length of the finless portion of the tail equals the diameter of the eye.

Scales_Cover the body, chest and summit of head to opposite the nostrils, also the cheeks and
the upper portions of the preopercle and opercle.

Lateral line — Forms a curve to opposite the fifth dorsal ray, but in this course is at first a
little concave as far as the fifth dorsal spine. The last or straight portion of the lateral line is
covered with armed plates, the widest of which equals one-seventh of the height of the body.

Colours— Body golden with a tinge of grey along the back, and also on the upper surface and
front of the head. AVhen alive this fish has a bright bluish silvery reflection shot with gold. Some
darkish blotches on the first dorsal, and the summit of the second dorsal greyish black. Point of
the upper lobe of the caudal of a deep black, and in some specimens the black border is continued
round the whole of the posterior margin of the fin : after death these last mentioned dark
markings fade. Eye bright orange.

Very common, and enters the mouth of the river at Cochin, but the largest specimens, which

88 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

attain to two feet and a half in length, are captured in the deep sea. When taken it gives a
grunt like a young pig, and this is repeated whenever it is moved as long as it has any life remain-
ing. It is first captured at the end of the S. W. monsoon, and continues off Malabar through the
whole of the cold months.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China, through the Pacific to the shores of Australia,
and the Atlantic coasts of temperate and tropical America.

2. One or more of the dorsal or anal rays elongated.

Caranx atropus.

Beama atropus, Bl. Schn. p. 98, t. 23.

Mais-parah, Russell, pi. 152.

Caranx nigripes, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 122 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 129.

Olistus atropus, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 141.

Caranx atropus, Cantor, Catal. p. 130; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 450.

B. vii. D. 8 | ^L. P. 19. V. i. A. 2 | TL C. 16. L. 1. 32-35. Vert. |£.

Length of head \, of pectoral f , of caudal \, of base of first dorsal ^, of base of second
dorsal 1 of base of anal 1 of total length. Height of head 1, of body f , of first dorsal y^, of
second dorsal \, of ventral i, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Large and round, diameter t3q of length of head, § of a diameter from end of snout,
§ of a diameter apart.

Body compressed, with an elevated crest commencing from the anterior extremity of the
frontal bones and extending over the occiput. Ventral fins elongated and occasionally some of the
rays of the dorsal, especially in male specimens.

Cleft of mouth very oblique. Lower jaw much the longest : the upper appearing as if it had
been partially cut off. The maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit. Pre-
opercle high and narrow, with an oblique rounded angle, its horizontal limb only half the length
of its vertical one. Opercle short and high, sub- and interopercles rather broad and large. Gill
openings very wide. Intermaxillaries slightly protrusible. Nostrils large and opposite the anterior
superior angle of orbit, behind them is a rather high narrow crest.

Teeth — Villiform in jaws, a triangular patch on vomer, and a narrow band on the palatine
bones.

Fins — Pectoral and ventral arise on a line, and the first dorsal rather posterior to them ; the
second dorsal commences opposite the centre of the pectoral, and the anal opposite about the
eighth dorsal ray. The first dorsal fin, and the two spines before the anal, can be received into a
groove at their bases. First dorsal triangular, its spines very weak, and the membrane rather
notched. The second ray of the second dorsal the longest, the upper margin of the fin is at first
concave, and subsequently straight. Pectoral falciform, third and fourth rays the longest, it
extends to opposite the thirteenth dorsal ray. Ventral spine weak, the rays elongated. Second
anal ray the longest, the inferior border of the fin is at first concave, subsequently straight.
Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Fine, and extending forwards to between the bases of the pectoral and ventral fins ;
the head, nape, and chest scaleless.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 89

Lateral lint — At first forms a strong curve, opposite the commencement of the anal, ami in
the upper two-fifths of the body passes direct in a keeled line to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Bluish silvery above, silvery shot with pink and purple on the sides. A black mark
on the upper third of opercle which fades after death: and another under the branchiostegal
membrane. Ycntrals deep black with a white anterior border. First dorsal with some fine black
points : second dorsal stained dark at its upper margin, and with some fine dots along its inter-
spinous membrane, also on that of the caudal the ground colour of which is bright yellow, iris
silvery.

Grows to twelve inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

CARANX ARMATUS.

Sci^ena aemata. Forsk. p. 53.

Tchawil parah, Russell, pi. 151 {young).

Caranx citula, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 126, pi. 250.

Caranx aematus, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 127; Cantor, Catal. p. 131 ; Gunther, Gatal. ii.

p. 453.
Caranx ciliaris, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 129 {young).
Olistus Malabaricus, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 137, pi. 251.
Ollstus RiiPFELLii, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 1-44.

B. vii. D. 7-8 | w.Vr. V. \. A. 2 | ^^ C. 19. L. 1. 20.

Length of head T3T, of pectoral -fr, of base of first dorsal ^, of base of second dorsal 1, of base
of anal rather more than \ of total length. Height of head \, of body ^, of first dorsal ], of second
dorsal ^T, of ventral f , of anal T2T of total length.

Eyes — Diameter § of length of head, ^ diameter from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter apart.

Body elliptical, the upper and lower profile equally curved, but the anterior extremity more
obtuse than the posterior.

Mouth oblique, lower jaw the longest, the maxilla extending to beneath the anterior fourth
of the orbit. Preorbital wide, its upper portion having a festooned edge of ridges directed down-
wards. Lower margin of opercle rather concave. Preopercle nearly vertical posteriorly, its angle
rounded, and lower margin equal in length to about half its height. Nostrils approximating and
near to upper third of orbit. Longitudinal crest along upper surface of the head well developed,
as are also the lateral ridges.

Teeth — Villiform in both jaws, vomer and palate.

Fins — The pectoral arises below posterior extremity of opercle, and extends to opposite
seventh dorsal ray : the first dorsal commences slightly behind the origin of the pectoral, and
opposite the ventral : the second dorsal commences midway between the mouth and centre of base of
caudal : the anal begins opposite posterior extremity of the pectoral. First dorsal triangular,
spines moderately strong, the first very short, the second one quarter as long as the third, which
is the highest : a procumbent spine is very apparent anterior to the fin in the young specimens .
Second dorsal and anal highest anteriorly, in some specimens the rays are elongated and filiform,
as are also those of the ventral. Caudal rather deeply lobed.

Scales — Small : none on the chest, but covering the body and cheeks.

N

90 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Lateral line — Moderately bent, becoming straight under posterior third of second dorsal.
The plates are very little developed.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back bluish green, sides of the head and body golden
with purplish reflections, fading to white on the abdomen. Opercular spot moderately distinct in
immature, absent hi adult specimens. First dorsal blackish] second dorsal, caudal, and anal
yellowish, stained darker at their margins. Pectoral whitish at its base, the rest of a greyish black.
Iris silvery. In young specimens there are six vertical dark bands passing from the back to the
abdomen.

Grows to six inches or upwards in length.

Habitat — Eed Sea, Seas of India, and Malaysia, to the coast of New Guinea.

3. One or more of the dorsal, ventral, or anal rays elongated, and the first dorsal slightly

developed, or disappearing with age.

Caeaxx ciliaris.

Zeus ciliaris, Bloch, vi. p. 29, t. 191.

Blepharis Indicus, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 154.

Gurrah parrah, Russell, pi. 57 {young).

Chewolah parrah, Russell, pi. 58 {young).

Gallicthys major, Cuv. & Vol ix. p. 168, pi. 254 (young)] Cantor, Catal. p. 136.

Gallicthys chevola, Cuv. & Vol. ix. p. 175.

Caranx ciliaris, Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 454.

B. vii. D. 6 | JL. P. 18. V. i. A. 2 | ^ C. 19. L. 1. 1

o.

Length of head f , of pectoral f , of caudal \, of base of first dorsal *fe, of base of second dorsal f ,
of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head \, of body \ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, nearly 2 diameters from end of snout, rather more than
^ a diameter apart.

Body of an oval shape, strongly compressed, and rather elevated at the commencement of the
dorsal and anal fins. Profile to first dorsal convex : the lower profile not so convex as the upper.
The tail produced posteriori}-.

Mouth in front, upper jaw protrusible and oblique ; the lower horizontal and compressed.
The maxilla extends posteriorly rather more than half the distance to the anterior margin of the
orbit. Preopercle vertical, narrow and high, the width at the angle one-fifth its height, inferior
margin very oblique. Opercle rather more than twice as high as broad, with a shallow emargina-
tion at the centre of the posterior margin. Preorbital large and smooth. Summit of the orbit
one diameter from the upper profile. Gill openings large.

Teeth — Villiforni in both jaws ; fine teeth on vomer and palatine bones.

Fins — Pectoral falciform, extending to nearly opposite the fifteenth dorsal ray. Ventral arises
slightly in front of pectoral : first dorsal opposite the first third of the pectoral, and the base of
anal opposite its second third. The first dorsal merely short spines, with one anteriorly directed
forwards. Spine of second dorsal very short; the first ray wide and strong, and the first four
very prolonged, the filaments reaching some distance beyond the end of the caudal fin : the
interior portions of the next five rays also prolonged into filaments, but decreasing in width. The
two first rays of the ventral small, prolonged, and extending in some specimens as far as those of

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 91

the dorsal. Between the ventral and anal there is a trenchant space, where there are vestiges
of two spines, which are apparent in the very young. Spines of anal fin short and flattened, first
three rays prolonged as in the second dorsal, but not quite so far; remainder of the fin of the same
shape as the second dorsal. Finless portion of the tail cylindrical, and equals half the length oi
the orbit. Caudal with pointed lobes, and cleft in its posterior two thirds.

Lateral fine — With a high curve in front to opposite midway between the posterior margin of
the orbit and the base of the caudal, from whence it passes obliquely downwards to opposite the
sixteenth ray of the second dorsal, and then direct to the centre of the caudal; in this last part of
its course some fine round scales begin to appear, after the eleventh they become larger, and the last
nine constitute a kind of keel, as in the rest of the Caranx genus.
Pyloric appendages very numerous.

Colours — Silvery white, with a yellowish tint on the back, which gradually darkens towards
the tail. The filamentous prolongations of the dorsal are black, as are also the longer rays of
the ventrals. There are six wide vertical bands passing from the back to the abdomen, most
apparent in the very young. Immature specimens have a pinkish tinge.

Esteemed as food. Grows to six inches in length. Large ones have not been recorded, unless
the C. gallus is the mature of this species.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Caeanx GALLUS.

Zeus gallus, Lin. Sys. Nat. i. p. 454.

Scyeis Indica, Guv. & Vol. ix. p. 145, pi. 252 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 134.

Caeanx gallus, Giiniher, Catal. ii. p. 455.

B. vi. D. TL P. 17. V. i A. tl C. 19. L. 1.8-10. Vert

fy. s:. Li. v . 5. XL. Tg. v. is. xj. a. u-iu. tciu. 14.

Length of head \, of pectoral more than \, of caudal more than \, of base of second dorsal
nearly J, of base of anal nearly \ of total length. Height of head nearly \, of body \ of total
length.

Eyes — Diameter \ length of head, 2 diameters from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter apart.

The difference between the C. gallus and C. ciliaris, if any exists, is that the first dorsal is
not present in large specimens of the former (small ones are not recorded), and only moderately
so in middle sized ones : anal spines absent : pectorals not elongated : lateral line rather more
distinct in the last part of its course, whilst it has fewer scales to the keel.

Colours — As in the C. ciliaris.

Grows to five feet in length.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus CHORINEMUS, Cuv. and Vol.

ScOMBEEOlDES, LacSp.

Branchiostegals, seven or eight: pseudobranchise. Body oblong and compressed. Eyes lateral.
Cleft of mouth moderate or wide. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle Two dorsals,
the first— preceded by an immoveable recumbent spine, directed forwards— is formed by a few free spines, and
of less extent than the soft dorsal, and anal, the posterior rays of both of which last are either detached

n 2

92 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

or semi-detached. Two spines in front of, but separated by an interspace from, the anal fin. Ventrals
thoracic. Teeth villiform on jaws, vomer, and palatine bones. Scales small. Lateral line continuous,
not keeled. Air bladder bifurcated posteriorly. Pyloric appendages numerous.

Chokinemus LYSAN.

Rcomber lysan, Forslx., pi. 54, no. 67.

Chokinemus lysan, Cantor; Catal. p. 118 ; Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 471.

Chokinemus lyzan, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 387.

Chokinemus Commersonianus, Guv. & Veil. viii. p. 370.

? Chokinemus Farkharii, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 388.

Chorinemus aculeatus, Guv. & Vol. viii. p. 384.

Aken parah, Russell, pi. 141.

B. viii. D. 7 | Jff- p- 19- V. J. A. 2 | j%. Vert. if.

Length of head J, of pectoral -^, of caudal A, of base of first dorsal ^, of base of second
dorsal J, of base of anal J of total length. Height of head ^g, of body ^, of first dorsal ^,
of second dorsal A, of ventral y^, of anal A. of total length.

Eyes — Transversely oval with an adipose lid on each side, diameter § of length of head, J of
a diameter from end of snout, rather more than 1 diameter apart.

Body elliptical, and compressed, jaws compressed and sharp.

Mouth large, the lower jaw the longest. The maxilla extends to a distance, equalling
one-third of the diameter of the orbit, behind its posterior margin; the interniaxillaries
are rather convex in their first third, concave in the last half of their extent, and equal tw
thirds the length of the head. Symphysis of lower jaw slightly tubercular. Preorbital narrow
the width of its upper portion equal to that of the lower end of the maxilla. Preopercle long and
narrow, its lower margin nearly horizontal and only one quarter the length of the posterior, which
is rather oblique, making a gradual curve at the angle, its limbs forming an arc of a circle.
Opercle with an obtuse point. Nostrils large, and close to the anterior superior angle of the orbit,
with a very slight crest over them. Central and side crests of skull moderately prominent.

Teeth — In two rows in both jaws, the external row in the lower directed upwards and outwards,
and the internal one upwards and inwards : near the symphysis and close to the end of each row,
there is a large canine like tooth, and also an additional row of smaller ones. The upper jaw
has two rows and numerous villiform ones near its centre. Teeth on the vomer in a spot largest
in front, and in the palate a long band which narrows posteriorly.

Fins — Ventral commences slightly in advance of pectoral ; first dorsal over posterior third of
pectoral, second dorsal opposite anal, at an equal distance between the snout and base of caudal.
Spines of first dorsal strong and pointed, flattened anteriorly, and sharp at the sides, whilst they
can be received into a groove at their bases. No interspinous membrane. The horizontal spine
before the first dorsal can scarcely be seen in the adult fish, being hidden by the integuments. The
first soft ray of the second dorsal is the longest, the superior margins of the first seven are concave,
and the last half of the rays are joined very slightly to each other, almost forming finlets, the last
two rays are rather prolonged, and reach to the base of the caudal. The anal free spines are
triangular, the second rather the longest. The anal fin opposite the second dorsal and of the same
shape. Caudal deeply lobed, in its posterior three-fourths. Pectoral rather pointed. Ventral,
first ray very strong, flattened towards its base, and connected to the body by two membranes ;

THE PISHES OF MALABAB. !)3

the external and shortest passing from the fourth ray to the body, the second and longi
extending from the last nearly as far as the vent.

Scales — Small and ovoid, with long central furrows. None on the head.

Lateral line — At first concave ; opposite the first dorsal spine it forms a very obtuse angle,
from whence it gradually and rather irregularly sinks, until opposite the last spine, and then
proceeds direct to the centre of the caudal.

The air bladder extends some distance backwards.

Colours — Summit of head and back of a golden olive, the rest of the head and back of a
brilliant gold colour. Second dorsal, anal, pectoral, and caudal fins greenish olive ; posterior
margin of the caudal blackish, anterior dorsal, ventrals and posterior anal spines white. Iris golden,
greenish towards the orbit. After death the golden tint disappears, and there are six or seven
large oval greyish spots above the lateral line.

This Chorinemus appears in Malabar about July, and is considered good eating, although
rather dry, especially the larger fish.

Grows to three feet in length.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and China, as far as the N. W. coast of Australia,
also Madagascar.

* Chorinemus tol.

Tol paeah, Russell, pi. 138.

Chorinemus tol, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 385 ; Guniher, Catal. ii. p. 473.

B. vii. D. 7 | 5l p. 17. y. J. A. 2 | Jg. C. 21.

Length of head \ of total length. Height of body j\.

Its form is more elongated than that of C. lysan ; its upper profile descends in a straight line,
or is even slightly concave.

The lower jaw is longer than the upper : the maxilla extends posteriorly to beneath the anterior
margin of the orbit.

Fins — Pectorals and ventrals of equal length : the second dorsal and anal are elevated ante-
riorly : the caudal lobed. The free spines forming the first dorsal fin are more equal than, and not
so flat as in the C. lysan. The twelve last rays of the second dorsal and anal are almost free.

Scales — Very minute, appearing like little points pressed into the skin.

Lateral line — Is marked by a series of very straight small elevations, and makes an obtuse
angle above the posterior third of the pectoral.

Colours — Blue above and silvery over the rest of the body. Four or five small vertically oval
deep blue spots exist along the lateral line, the last a little above it opposite the commencement
of the second dorsal. Fins yellowish, the extremity of the dorsal blackish, and a black spot exists
on the point of the second dorsal.

Moderately good for eating ; grows to fifteen inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Chorinemus tala.
Tala paeah, Russell, pi. 140.
Chorinemus tala, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 377; Giintlicr, Catal. ii. p. 473.

9-4 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

B. viii. D. 7 | ^. P. 20. V. i A. 2 | ^j. C. 19.

Length of head J, of {pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal \, of base of second dorsal
\, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head J, of body f , of first dorsal £%, of second
dorsal £, of ventral ^, of free spines ^, of anal £ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter, \ length of head, rather more than ^ a diameter from end of snout, 1 dia-
meter apart.

Body elliptical, compressed, and rather extended towards the tail. There is a gradual rise to
the first dorsal.

Mouth wide and obtuse. The maxilla extends to below the posterior margin of the orbit.
Upper jaw rather wide, slightly convex towards its centre, and more concave inferiorly : inter-
maxillaries equal to two-thirds the length of the head. The symphysis of the lower jaw, when
the mouth is closed, is received into an emargination in centre of upper jaw, and so forms a portion
of the superior profile. Preorbital narrow. Preopercle narrow, the lower limb hardly more than
a fourth the length of the posterior one, it is finely lineated inferiorly ; the lower portions of the
posterior limb and angle rounded. Opercle triangular and slightly produced in the centre of its
posterior edge. Nostrils approximating, large, and surmounted by a crest. Central and lateral
crests of the skull distinct.

Teeth — Two or three rows of sharp ones in both jaws, but those in the lower having the outer
row directed rather outwards, as well as a large canine on each side. Fine teeth on vomer and
palatine bones, on the first in the form of a circular spot, and on the latter in that of a long ellipsis.
The upper surface of the tongue is covered with teeth.

Fins — Pectoral arises opposite the ventral, first dorsal opposite the posterior third of pectoral,
and second dorsal midway between the snout and the base of the caudal. First dorsal with a flat
recumbent spine in front, equal to the third spine of the fin in length : the dorsal spines are sharp,
strong and moveable, flat anteriorly, cutting laterally, and receivable into a groove at their bases :
the first is the shortest, and the last three about equal in length, the interspinous membrane is
deeply emarginate, and connects each spine with the one posterior to it. Anterior portion of the
second dorsal the highest, its spine equals one third of the length of the first soft ray ; first and
second rays the longest : upper margin of the second dorsal at first concave, but from twelfth
ray equal, and having rather the appearance of Unlets. The first soft ray of the anal is the longest,
then they decrease to the eighth, from whence they continue as in the second dorsal. Both the anal
and second dorsal have their three or four last rays with sheaths covering a small portion of their
bases. Of the free anal spines the second is the longest, being equal to one-sixth the height of
the body, they have a short connecting membrane. Caudal rather deeply lobed, but not so much
so as in the C. hjsan. Ventral triangular, and the membrane the same as in the C. lysan.

Scales — Small and oval in their exposed portion, none on the head or fins.

Lateral line — Irregular and jagged, rising to a sharp angle under the first dorsal spine, then
gradually sinking to opposite the third dorsal ray, from thence continued straight.

Colours — Bright orange over the whole surface, with a slight greenish tinge on the summit
of the head, and along the back nearly as low as the lateral line ; from six to eight circular,
dull, almost indistinct spots on the side a short distance above the lateral line, commencing at the
shoulder. Pectoral, ventral, and anal bright orange. Dorsal and caudal diaphanous stained with
greenish brown, and the lower lobe of the caudal with yellow : a spot of a darkish colour at the

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 95

tip of the lower jaw, which when closed comes on to the profile of the back, Iris silvery, with a
purplish tinge.

Grows to two feet in length. It appears in Malabar during the S.W. monsoon, and is itkm !■ -
rately good eating.

Habitat — Seas of India.

Chorinemus Sancti Petri.

Chorinemus Sancti Petri, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 379, pi. 230; Giinther, Catal. ii.

p. 473.
Chorinemus moadetta. Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 382.
Chortnemus Mauritianus, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 382.
Chorinemus tol, Cantor, Catal. p. 119.
Pallagay, Mai.

B. viii. D. 7 | ^.Vr- P. 17- V- h A. 2 | TV C. 15.

Length of head j\, of pectoral £>, of caudal -ft, of base of dorsal spines ■^3> of base of second
dorsal -*, of base of anal -'- of total length. Height of head 1 of body •£-, of dorsal spines ^ of
second dorsal rlj, of ventral rVj, of anal ^ of total length.

Byes — Diameter J to ^ of length of head, nearly 1 diameter from end of snout, f of a diameter
apart. Dr. Giinther observes that " the snout in mature fishes is nearly twice as long as the
diameter of the eye."

Body long and flat ; the upper profile rather concave opposite the orbits, then horizontal to the
base of the first dorsal.

Mouth deep, the maxilla triangular and nearly flat posteriorly, extending to beneath the
centre of the orbit : a tubercle on each ridge of the symphysis ; intermaxillaries half the length of
the head : their posterior processes large and broad. Preopercle with the posterior limb nearly
vertical, and the angle rounded ; the inferior Umb one third shorter than the posterior, and nearly
horizontal, with some openings of glands which pass in narrow shallow grooves downwards, and
divide into numerous branches, taking the same direction. Opercle triangular, base above, pos-
terior margin with a slight emargination. Preorbital narrow. Central and lateral crests of the
skull scarcely elevated. Nostrils situated midway between the orbit and the commencement of the
intermaxillary process.

Teeth — Numerous and sharp in several rows, the posterior ones being curved backwards.

Fins — Procumbent spine in front of the first dorsal, usually concealed. First dorsal spines
free, broad, strong, sharp, and can be received into a groove : they commence over the posterior
third of the pectoral ; the interspinous membrane when it exists is very small ; the last spine
reaches as far as the second dorsal, which commences half way between the snout and the base of
the caudal ; the first soft ray is the longest, and the first portion of the fin the highest, and concave
above. Anal opposite the second dorsal; the two free spines are strong, and do not quite reach
to the anal fin. Pectoral triangular and commencing close to the opercle, just below the emargi-
nation ; ventral long, and can be received into a groove : it extends nearly to the orifice of the
anus. Caudal deeply lobed and pointed.

Scales— Minute, rhomboidal, appearing like the points of needles, none on the head.

Lateral line — Consists of single tubes, and makes a very obtuse angle opposite the third dorsal

96 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

spine, from whence it slopes gradually downwards to opposite the third or fourth dorsal ray, and
then proceeds nearly straight to the centre of the caudal.

The air bladder extends far backwards on each side of the haemal spines.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back bluish grey, fading to silvery on the opercles and
abdomen. A bluish grey spot on the upper portion of the opercle, and a series of from six to
eight, or sometimes a double row, above the lateral line. Pectoral and caudal yellowish, the last
stained with black at its margin. Summit of the second dorsal blackish, the rest of the fins
white. Iris silvery.

Grows to twenty inches in length.

Habitat — Eastern coast of Africa, Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

* Choeinemus TOOLOO.

Tooloo paeah, Bussell, pi. 137.

Choeinemus tooloo, Guv. & Vol. viii. p. 377 ; Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 473.

B.vii. D. 7|„.W P. 18. V.l. A.2|T^ C. 19.

Length of head ^- of total length. Height of body ^ of total length.

Eyes — Their diameter equals then' distance from the anterior extremity of the snout.

The maxilla does not extend posteriorly so far as to beneath the posterior margin of the orbit.

The mouth is like that of the C. tola, C. fy V., but the limb of the preopercle has more
resemblance to that of the C. lysan.

Teeth — Eesembling those of the C. tola, C. §• V.

Lateral line — Scarcely curved.

Colours — A series of about six small spots exists along the lateral line. Superiorly the head
is of a deep blue, and the back of a lighter tint : the abdomen of a yellowish white. The tips of
the dorsal and anal, also the lobes of the caudal, blackish : the other fins transparent.

Grows to eighteen inches in length.

Habitat — Red Sea, and Seas of India.

Genus TRACHYNOTUS, Cm. & Vol.

Teachinotus, Lacep.
CLesiomoeus, Lacep.
Acanthinion, Lacep.

Branchiostegals seven : pseudobranehiae none. Body more or less elevated, and compressed. Eyes lateral.
Cleft of mouth rather small, muzzle swollen and very obtuse. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with
the preopercle. Two dorsals, the first composed of free spines, with a small interspinous connecting
membrane, and a horizontal procumbent spine directed forwards anterior to the fin, the base of which is of
less extent than that of the soft dorsal or of the anal, the anterior margins of each of the latter fins are
pointed and elongated : no finlets. Two spines, in front of but separated by an interspace from the
anterior margin of the anal fin. Ventral thoracic. Teeth small ou jaws, vomer, and palatine bones, usually
lost with age. Scales small. Lateral line continuous and unarmed. An air bladder bifurcated posteriorly.
Pyloric appendages numerous or in moderate numbers.

the fishes of malabar. ut

Tbachynotus oyatus.
Gastebosteus ovatus, Lin. Syst. Nat. i. p. 490.

MOOKALEE-PABAH, RuSSell, pi. 154.

Trachinotus falcatus, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 430.

Teachinotus mookalee, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 423; Cantor, Catal. p. 120.

Trachinotus Blochii, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 425.

Trachinotus affinis, CW. & Val. viii. p. 428.

Trachinotus falcifer, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 428.

Trachinotus drepanis, Cuv. & Val. viii. p. 42'J.

Trachynotus ovatus, Criinther, Catal. ii. p. 481.

B. vii. D. 6 | TV P. 17. V. \. A. 2 | l. C. 17.

Length of head }, of pectoral \, base of first dorsal \, base of second dorsal \, of caudal \,
of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal JT, of second dorsal
J, of ventral J, of anal } of total length.

Eyes — Diameter J length of head, § of a diameter from end of snout, 1] diameters apart.

Body elliptical, sides compressed ; snout obtuse ; a considerable rise from it to the first dorsal,
but superior and inferior profile of body equally convex.

Mouth oblique, its angle under anterior margin of orbit, the posterior extremity of the maxilla
reaching to beneath the centre of orbit : snout vertical. Preorbital rather broad, rounded anteriorly,
and tapering almost to a point beneath centre of orbit : preopercle broad, horizontal portion half
the height of its narrow vertical one : its external surface is divided into two parts by an elevation
down the centre, sending off long radiating ridges towards its angle and horizontal margin : angle
slightly produced. Opercle half as wide as high : interopercle rather large. Anterior opening of
nostrils smaller than the posterior.

Teeth — In young specimens there is a band of card-like teeth in both jaws, but as the fish
increase in size (as eight inches in length) they lose them, as well as those on the vomer and
palatine bones.

Fins — Pectoral broad and rounded, it commences behind the upper margin of the subopercle ;
first dorsal and ventral on a line opposite its centre ; second dorsal opposite its termination : anal
spines opposite commencement of second dorsal : and anal fin below sixth ray of second
dorsal. First dorsal with a horizontal spine before it : first spine small, from whence the others
gradually increase in size : in specimens up to five inches in length there is a deeply cleft inter-
spinous membrane which connects the first and second dorsal fins, but this is wanting in
older fish. Spine of second dorsal strong, first ray highest, and more than four times as long as
the last ; anterior portion of upper margin concave, but for its last two thirds parallel with the
curve of the back. Ventral pointed, the second of the anal spines the strongest and longest.
Spine of anal fin strong. Caudal with deeply pointed lobes.

Scales — Minute.

Lateral line — At first very slightly ascends and then forms a slight curve to opposite the
eleventh dorsal ray, from whence it proceeds straight to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — The upper surface of the head and back silvery green, on the sides golden green,
whilst the opercles and abdomen are brilliant gamboge, as are all the fins. The upper half of
the first five rays of the dorsal tipped with black, and the whole of the (in dotted with minute

98 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

black spots, as are also the bases and anterior portions of the anal and pectoral fins and the outer
edge of the caudal. Iris golden and green towards the orbit.

Grows to twenty inches in length, but is dry and insipid eating.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and as far as the coast of Australia. Atlantic coasts of
tropical and temperate America, crossing over to the Western coast of Africa.

Trachynotus Bailloni.

Botla parah, Russell, pi. 142.

CLesiomorus Bailloni, Lacep. iii. p. 93, pi. 3, fig. 1.

Trachinotus quadripunctatus, Guv. & Vol. viii. p. 434 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 122.

Trachinotus Russelli, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 436.

Trachinotus Bailloni, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 431 ; Gimther, Catal. ii. p. 484.

Vella oodoo, and Parruvu, Mai.

B.vii. D.6| J5,. P. 17. V.i A.2|„_Vff- 0.17.

Length of head T3g, of pectoral \, of caudal f , of base of first dorsal \, of base of second
dorsal \, of base of anal f of total length. Height of head \, of body f , of first dorsal 3\, of
second dorsal \, of anal \, of ventral j? of total length.

Eyes — Diameter rather more than \ length of head; 1 diameter from end of snout, 1^ dia-
meters apart.

Body ovoid, elevated, and strongly compressed, its width not exceeding one third of its height.

Jaws of equal length, the maxilla extending backwards until it nearly reaches to beneath the
centre of the orbit. Snout obtuse : nostrils between orbit and snout, but rather above the level of
the former, the posterior nostril large and oval, the anterior round and small. Preopercle, vertical
limb directed rather backwards, with the angle rounded and produced : inferior margin oblique.
Opercle of moderate size.

Teeth — Card-like in both jaws, and on vomer and palate.

Fins — The first dorsal consists of six free spines, preceded by a recumbent one directed for-
wards : these spines can be laid flat, and have also an irregular lateral movement. The first
dorsal spine is situated over the posterior third of pectoral, the ventral arises under its centre. The
second dorsal commences about midway between snout and base of caudal : the anal under the
fourth ray of second dorsal : both are very much produced in front, whilst the last fifteen rays
are parallel with the back and abdomen : a small portion only of the tail is uncovered by fin.
Pectoral and ventral small : caudal with deeply produced lobes, the upper slightly the longest.
Two free spines before the anal fin of moderate strength.

Scales — Small, external portions oval, they are placed in sinuous lines, and below the level of
the pectoral are much smaller than those above it.

Lateral line — In simple tubes : it is slightly arched at first, but from Opposite the last third of
the pectoral proceeds straight to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back of a silvery yellowish green, becoming lighter
on the sides, and silvery white on the abdomen, opercles, and cheeks. The first two or three rays
of the dorsal and anal, and the external half of each lobe of the caudal, are black. On the lateral
line there are four or five large black spots, more or less distant, the first one is opposite the end
of the pectoral. Fins diaphanous. Iris silvery, and greenish towards the orbit.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 99

This fish is uncommon, and usually captured by cast nets in the surf where the fishermen
assert it always swims ; it is very rarely taken in the deep sea, and never in the rivers. It grows
to one foot seven inches in length.

Habitat— Eed Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and Madagascar.

Genus PSETTUS, Guv. and Vol.
Monodactylus, Lacep.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchije. Body much compressed and elevated. Eyes lateral. Cleft
of mouth moderate, snout short. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. One dorsal
with seven or eight spines: anal with three: ventrals rudimentary. Teeth velvety on jaws, vomer, and
palate. Scales small, covering the vertical fins. Lateral line continuous, simple. Air bladder present,
bifurcated posteriorly. Pyloric appendages numerous.

PSETTUS AEGENTEUS.

Ch^etodon aegenteus, Lin. Amcen. Acad. iv. p. 249.
Kauki Sandawa, Russell, pi. 59.
Psettus rhombeus, Cuv. & Vol. vii. p. 245.
Monodactylus rhombeus, Cantor, Catal. p. 172.
Psettus argenteus, Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 487.

B.vi. D.„W P- 16. V-3-V A-2833o- 0.17. 1, 1.75. Vert. £.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \, of caudal \ of total
length. °Height of head f , of body \, of dorsal \, of anal J, of base of caudal £ of total length.
Eyes— Diameter rather more than \ length of head, i diameter from end of snout, f of a

diameter apart.

Body elevated and compressed; the distance from the posterior margin of the orbit to the
base of the caudal fin, equals the distance from the base of the dorsal to the base of the anal.

Lower jaw slightly the longest, and when the mouth is open forms the base of a semicircle,
the remainder being completed by the upper jaw, which is rather protrusible. Preorbital long and
narrow with a raised festooned line rather nearer its anterior than its posterior edge. Preopercle
high • vertical border nearly straight and entire ; the angle shghtly produced and finely serrated;
the lower margin nearly horizontal and two thirds the length of the vertical one. Opercle
ending in two blunt spines separated by a semi-circular margin, and sometimes a third minute

spine is perceived below.

Teeth— Villiform in several rows in both jaws ; some small ones on the vomer, and a lancet-
shaped line broadest in front on the palate : teeth also along the centre of the tongue.

Fins— The pectoral commences shghtly anterior to the commencement of the dorsal and
ventrals, which last are placed close together, and appear like two strong spines, the rays being,
indistinc't • the dorsal and anal terminate opposite one another ; the extremity of the dorsal rays
usually extends as far as the commencement of the caudal fin. The dorsal spines are nearly con-
cealed the three first being most apparent; the soft portion is elevated in front, then becomes

0 z

100 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

concave, and in its last third is parallel to the curve of the back. The anal is of the same form as
the dorsal, but not so concave. The ventral spines are short and strong, each one tenth the length
of head ; at their base both are in contact, but their points diverge ; they can be received into a
groove. The caudal is broad and very slightly emarginate, sometimes square. The pectoral
rounded.

Scales — Small and rather adherent ; from an irregular line commencing at the centre of the
opercle to the caudal passing upwards and backwards : below the line they proceed downwards and
backwards. They cover almost the whole of the dorsal and anal fins, also the base of the caudal,
the opercles, the cheeks, and summit of the head as far as the snout.

Lateral line — Forms a long irregular curve in the upper half of the body; from opposite the
last four dorsal rays it passes straight.

Colours — Silvery with purplish reflections, especially about the anal fin : the back is of a
yellowish green, which after death rapidly assumes a leaden hue. One rather wide black band
passes directly downwards from the nape to the centre of the eye ; a second from opposite the
three first hard rays of the dorsal fin as far as the opercle. Some of the dorsal is stained with
black, as is also the anterior portion of the anal, though to a less extent. Pectoral and ventral
colourless : caudal yellow.

Is most common in Malabar during the monsoon months. Grows to about seven inches m

length.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, to the coasts of Australia and Polynesia.

PsETTUS FALCIFOEMIS.

Monodactylus falciformis. Lacep. iii. pp. 131, 132, 133.

PSETTUS COMMERSONII, CuV. & Veil. vii. p. 250.

Psettus falciformis, Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 488.

PURRANDEE, Mai.

B. vi. D. gy.Vy. P. 17. A. <jV C. 17. L. r. upwards of 120.

Length of head \} of pectoral \, of base of dorsal i, of base of anal J of total length. Extreme
height 1^, height of head ^, of body £, of dorsal \, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter J length of head, ^ of a diameter from end of snout, ^s of a diameter apart.

Jaws of equal length. The maxilla extends to below the anterior half of the orbit ; the pre-
orbital is narrow and festooned ; the vertical border of the preopercle entire, and passing rather
backwards : the angle produced, rounded, and very finely serrated : inferior margin rather oblique,
and four fifths of the length of the vertical margin : the opercle has an obtuse spine ; the distance
from the angle of the orbit to that of the preopercle equals more than half the length of the
pectoral fin.

Fins — The pectoral rounded : the dorsal commences above its centre, and the ventral beneath
its base. The anal arises opposite the first dorsal ray. The dorsal is elevated in front, then
concave, and its last quarter is parallel to the curve of the back. The anal somewhat resembles
the dorsal, but is not so concave, and for its last two thirds its margin is parallel to the line of the
abdomen. Caudal deeply lunated. Ventrals as in the last species.

Scales — Disposed as in the last species, and the fins scaled in the same manner.

THE FISHES OF MALABAB. 101

Lateral lino — Tn a regular curve to opposito tlio last ray of dorsal, from whence it procei &
direct.

Colours— Very similar to the last, but rather more golden, and without the purple tinge,
whilst the bands are neither so wide nor so well marked.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of Malabar, and China.

Genus PLATAX, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, sis: pseudobranchia\ Body compressed and elevated. Eyes lateral. Cleft of
mouth rather small : snout short. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. One dorsal,
with from three to seven spines : anal with three : ventrals well developed. Teeth setiform, with an external
larger series, trilobed at their summits : villiform on vomer. Scales of moderate size or small, extended on
to the vertical fins. Lateral line continuous, simple. Air bladder simple.

Platax teiea.

Ch^etodon teiea, Forsk. p. 60, no. 82, t. 22.

Platax teiea, Cuv. & Vol. vii. p. 226 ; Cantov, Catal. p. 168 ; Giintlier, Catal. ii. p. 492.

B.vi. D.^. P. 16. V.l. A.^7. C. 17. L.r. 86.

Length of head nearly \, of pectoral f , of caudal \, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal \ of
total length. Height of head nearly \, of body §, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal more than ^, of
anal more than \, of ventral f of total length.

Eyes — Diameter ^ length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body elliptical, and strongly compressed : profile rising abruptly to dorsal, from whence it
rapidly sinks.

Mouth broad, snout obtuse, posterior extremity of maxilla extends to under the anterior
margin of orbit : preorbital large, with three or four ridges : preopercle twice as high as wide,
angle rounded, opercle ending in a soft point.

Teeth — Villiform in both jaws, the inner row being slightly larger than the external. A
small spot covered by sharp villiform teeth on the vomer.

Fins — Pectoral arises in the lower third of body, opposite the lower margin of the pre-
opercle. Dorsal commences over the opercle, and opposite the ventral : the anal opposite the
nineteenth dorsal ray. Only a very short portion of the tail finless. Of the spines of the dorsal
the first is short, but they rapidly increase, the fourth not being half the length of the fifth ; the
first ray is very long and the last very short ; the dorsal and anal fins are of the same shape,
whilst the caudal is cut square at its extremity. The ventral is shorter in the adult than in young
specimens.

Scales — Small, on body, opercles, cheeks and summit of head.

Lateral line — First curves upwards, but opposite the dorsal begins to bend downwards, and
opposite its last rays passes straight towards the caudal, but ceases a short distance before reaching
its base.

Colours — Brown with dark bands, one of which passes through the eye, a second from the
hard dorsal to behind the ventral, and a third from the centre of the dorsal to the anal, whilst

102 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

there is a fourth at the base of the caudal. Pectoral and caudal yellow. Dorsal, ventral, and anal
black. Eye golden. The bauds become more indistinct as the age of the fish increases.

Grows to eight inches in length.

Habitat — Eed Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus EQUULA, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, from four to five : pseudobranchia?. Body oblong or elevated, more or less compressed.
Eyes lateral. Mouth very protractile. Lower margin of preopercle serrated. Infraorbital bones do not
articulate with the preopercle. One dorsal with from eight to ten spines, and fifteen to seventeen rays : anal
with three spines, and from thirteen to fourteen rays. Edges of back and abdomen dentated along the base
of the fins. "Ventrals thoracic. Minute teeth on jaws, none on the palate. Scales cycloid, small,
deciduous. Lateral line continuous, unarmed : in some species ceasing abruptly beyond the end of the
dorsal fin. Air bladder ending posteriorly in two horns. Pyloric appendages few.

Equula INSIDIATRIX.

Zeus insidiator, Bl. t. 192, f. 2-3.

Equula insidiatrix, Cuv. & Vol. x. p. 98; Cantor, Catal. p. 151; Giinther, Catal.

ii. p. 504.
Paarl coorchee, Mai.

B. iv. D 8ff. P. 15. V. l A. &. C. 19.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal § of total
length. Height of head \, of body §, of hard dorsal y^, of soft dorsal ^, of anal spines ^, of
anal rays ^ of total length. The ventral is of various lengths in different specimens, being some-
times prolonged.

Eyes — Diameter nearly J length of head, 1J diameters from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter
apart.

Body oval, and compressed, abdominal profile much more convex than that of the back.

Mouth — Placed horizontally, the opening small, intermaxillaries very protractile, equal to one-
eighth of the length of the body : when fully protracted the mouth is still slightly directed
upwards, and when closed the mandibula is quite vertical ; the interorbital space, or rather the cavity
on the summit of the head, is triangular ; the middle third of the superciliary margin is finely
serrated. The two supraorbital spines are small but distinctly visible and directed backwards, the
external being the strongest ; the lower preopercular margin is finely serrated, the serratures being
largest anteriorly. Nostrils close to orbit.

Teeth — Minute in the jaws.

Fins — The dorsal is placed over the centre of the pectorals, and the ventral on a line with it.
The anal commences opposite the soft portion of the dorsal. The first dorsal spine is small, the
second wide, compressed, and the longest of all. The pectoral is rather pointed, the ventral
minute, and the caudal deeply lobed. The second anal spine is rather strong, sharp, and much the
longest and strongest, the first is the smallest.

Scales — Very minute.

Lateral line — Passes nearly level with the back but approaching it, and is generally lost near
the tail, but sometimes as far forwards as below the last third of the dorsal fin.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

103

Colours -Back bluish silver, abdomen whitish silver, the wholo being glossed over with a
slightly golden tint. Three or four horizontal lines of black spots, with bronze reflections, form
from eight to ten vertical bands descending along the upper half of the body. The upper surface
of the head, cheeks, and lower jaw, all of burnished silver. Dorsal tipped with black : ventral
white. Pectoral light yellow. Caudal yellowish, and stained at the end with brown.

This is an exceedingly common fish in Malabar, and quantities of it, along with other species
of the same genus, are kept for consumption during the monsoon, as owing to the small amount
of intestines and the compressed form of the body very little salt is necessary for their preservation.
As the salt tax falls heavily on the poor classes of Natives, they evade it, along the coast (at least
in the Native States of Malabar), by opening and cleansing this little fish, soaking it in the sea,
and drying it in the sun. It is of course but partially salted, and when eaten during the monsoon
is in a semi-putrid state, thereby giving rise to attacks of diarrhoea and dysentery.

Habitat— Seas of India and Malaysia. Said to be occasionally captured in fresh water.

Equula edentula.

Scomber edentulus, Block, t. 428.
Komah karah, Bussell, pi. 63.
Equula ensifera, Guv. So Vol. x. p. G6.
Equula coma, Guv. & Veil. x. p. 76.

TOTTAH KARAH, BllSSell, pi. 62.

Equula caballa, Guv. & Veil. x. p. 73 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 146.
Equula edentula, Gimther, Catal. ii. p. 498.

B.v. D.tV P. 17. V.i. A.&. C.17.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, base of dorsal $, base of anal J of total length.
Height of head J, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal ^ of ventral \, of anal spines \, of
anal rays -^ of total length.

Eyes— Diameter J length of head, § of a diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Upper profile rather more curved than the lower.

Mouth directed nearly horizontally, opening moderate ; intermaxillaries rather convex supe-
riorly and equal to one and a quarter diameters of the orbit. Mandibulse very concave below;
interorbital cavity rather broad, coming to a point opposite the posterior end of the orbit, and
having a longitudinal ridge along the anterior portion of the groove. A slight roughness^ exists
along the superior superciliary ridge, where there are two rather strong supraorbital spines directed
backwards. Opercle narrow, posteriorly angular, and its greatest width not equalling half its
height. Lower margin of the horizontal line of the preopercle rather strongly serrated, its length
being rather more than half that of its vertical lirnb ; angle scarcely rounded.

Teeth — Small, and concealed by rather thick lips.

pins—Pectoral arises just below the end of opercle, and scarcely in advance of the dorsal and
ventral which are on a line. Anal commences opposite the eighth spine of the dorsal. First
spine of the dorsal very short ; second rather more than half the height of the body, with a deep
groove down its anterior margin, and two sevenths longer than the third spine, which has on
its lower half anteriorly a flat serrated bony expansion, becoming gradually wider inferiorly, so
that it extends as far as the next spine. Fourth spine somewhat shorter, and serrated anteriorly.

104 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

All the spines have horizontal strife on their posterior halves, as have also those of the ventral and
anal fins. Ventral spine moderately strong and sharp. First anal spine short ; the second broader
than the second dorsal spine, and one sixth longer than the third dorsal spine ; the third weak,
and one third shorter that the second, with a bony serrated expansion anteriorly, the same as in
the third dorsal spine. Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Minute.

Lateral line — At first slightly concave, then very slightly convex to opposite the end of the
dorsal fin, from whence it proceeds straight in the direction of the centre of the caudal, but ceases
before reaching it.

Colours — Summit of head and back silvery green, minutely dotted with black ; the remainder
of the head and body bright silvery, muzzle greenish grey, minutely dotted with black ; dorsal
and anal spines of a pale shining silvery tinge, and as well as their membranes dotted with
black j the base of the dorsal and anal membrane reddish yellow, the remainder transparent ;
margin of the dorsal blackish ; caudal yellowish white ; ventral white, reddish yellow at the base :
pectoral transparent, with a dark silvery band along its base ; a black spot in axilla. Iris silvery,
orbital half blackish.

Very common : grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

* Equula splendens.
Gomoeah karah, Russell, pi. 61.

Equula splendens, Cuvter, Reg. Anim. ii. p. 212; Cantor, Catal. p. 149.
Equula gomorah, Cuv. & Val. x. p. 80.

B. v. D. TV P. 19. V. J. A. T3¥. C. 17.

Length of head ^ to \ in the total length. Height of body | to § in total length.

Eyes — Diameter, a little more than \ of the length of the head.

The upper profile is more convex than the lower, and the muzzle when protracted projects
very slightly downwards, forming a short truncated cone.

A pair of small spines exists above the anterior margin of the orbit, and the cavity on
the head is about twice as long as broad. The lower margin of preopercle is finely serrated, and
its length four fifths of that of the mandibula which is slightly concave, and ascends at an angle
of about 35°.

Teeth — A single series of fine setaceous ones in both jaws, concealed by rather fleshy lips.

Fins — The second spine of the dorsal is one fifth of the total length, and three quarters the
length of the head ; the third spine is somewhat less in length. The second anal spine is two
thirds the length of the second spine of the dorsal, and the third is slightly shorter than the second.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back golden green, minutely dotted with black, and
forming a blackish line along the base of the dorsal fin : the rest of the body of a silvery satin.
The muzzle minutely dotted with black. A little above the lateral line is an arched pale reddish
line joining the posterior third of the lateral, which itself forms the superior border of a broad pale
reddish band. Cheeks and opercles shining silvery. Membrane of dorsal hyaline, the upper half
between the second and sixth spine black, the rest edged with black. Caudal pale reddish yellow.
Ventrals and pectorals white. Iris silvery, orbital margin black (Cantor).

Grows to four inches in length.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia and China.

TI1K FISHES OF MALABAR. 105

* EQUULA 1)1.001111.

Equula Blochii, Cuv. & Vol. x. p. 84.

" V 1 A J>-

B.v. D.TV V.l A.TS,

Body oblong : head higher and shorter than in the E. daura, Cuv. Lower jaw concave

inferiorly.

Fins— Spines of dorsal and anal nearly as strong as in the E. edcntula, Bl.

Colours— Silvery, with a grey or leaden tinge on the Lack, and a longitudinal silvery band
along its centre. A black spot on the dorsal fin.

Grows to three and a quarter inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

Equula daura.

Dacer karah, Russell, pi. 65.

Equula daura, Cuv. Keg. Anim; Cantor, Catal. p. 150; Gunther, Catal. ii. p. 502.

Equula dacer, Cuv. & Vol. x. p. 83.

B.v. D. TV P. 17. V.J, A.&. C. 17.

Length of head \, of pectoral ^ of caudal \, of base of dorsal ?, of base of anal nearly. \ of
total length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal 1, of soft dorsal T\, of anal spines jl0,
of anal rays ^ of total length.

Eyes— Transverse diameter J, vertical diameter § of length of head, J diameter from end of

snout, | of a diameter apart.

Upper and lower profile equally convex, and general appearance the same as in the

E. insidiatrix.

Mouth as in the E. insidiatrix, the intermaxillaries equal in length to the transverse diameter of
the orbit ; the lower preopercular margin finely serrated, the serratures being largest anteriorly ;
the mandibulffi rather concave inferiorly. No serratures on the superciliary ridge or spines in my
specimen from Malabar, but they are said to be sometimes present. There is a triangular shallow
cavity on the summit of the head.

Teeth — In a fine single series in the jaws.

Fins— Dorsal commences opposite the posterior third of the pectoral. Ventral under its first
quarter. Anal opposite the seventh dorsal spine. The second dorsal spine the longest and
broadest ; first anal spine very short, the second rather broad, strong, and longer than the third
which is feebler. The caudal deeply lobed.
Scales — Comparatively small.

Lateral line— In upper quarter of the body parallel to the back.

Colours— Generally of a silvery satin ; back bluish green, a greenish line passes along the centre
of the back ; abdomen bluish golden. From ten to twelve fine darkish bands descend from the
dorsal to the lateral line. On the shoulder there is a deep greenish black mark ; the opercles and
summit of head are like burnished silver; a dark tinge exists along the supraorbitals. The dorsal
fin is orange above and silvery beneath, with a deep black mark occupying the upper half of the
membrane°between its second and sixth spines. Pectoral with a black mark at its axil. Anal

tipped anteriorly with orange.

Grows to eight inches in length, and is esteemed for eating by the Natives, it is also dried in

the same manner as the E. insidiatrix.

Habitats-Seas of India, and Malaysia.

r

106 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

* Equula OBLONGA.

Equula oblonga, Cuv. & Val. x. p. 85 ; G'dnther, Catal. ii. p. 502.
Equula berbis, Cuv. & Val. x. p. 85.

B.v. D.^xy. P. 16. V.J. A.^. C. 16.

Length of head \ of total length. Height of body f of its total length.

" A pair of spines above the anterior margin of the orbit. The mandibula is very slightly
concave ; the lower preopercular margin serrated." Giinther.

Fins — The second spine of the dorsal is of moderate strength, and half as high as the body:
the second spine of the anal is a little stronger but not quite so long.

Scales — Inconspicuous.

Lateral line — Ceases before reaching the base of caudal fin.

Colours — Silvery with a brownish or violet tinge towards the back. The upper half of each
side is scattered with round or oval blackish spots, unequal and irregular. Iris greyish yellow,
without any black spot.

Habitat — Red Sea, Malabar, and Malaysia.

* Equula fasciata.

Karaii, Russell, pi. 66.

Clupea fasciata, Lacep. v. p. 463.

Equula filigera, longispinis, carah, et fasciata, Cuv. & Val. x. pp. 92, 94, 95,

96, pi. 284.
Equula filigera, Cantor, Catal. p. 150.
Equula fasciata, Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 498.

B. v. D. TV P. 19. V. i. A. &. C. 17.

Length of head \ of total length. Height of body f of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter t3q of the length of head.

The mandibula concave and ascends at an angle of 40° : the fleshy lips entirely hide the teeth.
The cavity of the head is nearly quadrangular, and four ninths as long as broad. The lower
margin of the inferior limb of preopercle indistinctly serrated, and its length four fifths of that
of the mandibula. A pair of small spines above the anterior margin of the orbit.

Teeth — In a narrow setaceous band.

Fins — The second spine of dorsal flexible, and one seventh less than the greatest height
of the body, or three quarters in the length of the head : the third spine is rather more than
half the height of the second, and about one third the length of the second anal ; the third anal
spine is two thirds the length of the second.

Scales — Small but conspicuous.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back pale greyish green, minutely dotted with brown,
the rest of the body and head shining silvery. Fins yellowish white ; dorsal spines and their
membranes as well as the muzzle dotted with pale brown. Iris silvery : orbital margin blackish.
(Cantor.)

Grows to five inches in length.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of Malabar, Malaysia, Seychelles, the Moluccas, and Philippine Islands.

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 107

Genus LACTARIUS, Cuv. and Val

Branch iostegals, seven: pseudobranchiac. Body oblong, compressed. Eyes lateral. Cleft of mouth
wide and oblique, the lower jaw prominent. Infraorbital hones do not articulate with the preopercle.
Margins of preopercle entire. Two dorsals, the first with seven or eight feeble spines ; the second and
the anal more developed, scaly, and without Unlets. Anal flu with three spines, no free spines anterior to
fin. Ventral thoracic. Teeth in jaws small, with one or two pairs of strong canines. Scales of moderate
size, cycloid. Lateral line continuous, simple. Air bladder bifurcated both anteriorly and posteriorly.
Pyloric appendages few.

Lactarius delicatulus.
Scomber lactarius, Bl. ScJin. p. 31.
Chundawah, Russell, pi. 108.
Lactarius delicatulus, Guv. & Val. ix. p. 238, pi. 201 ; Cantor, fatal, p. 138 ;

Giinther, Catal. ii. p. 507.
Purruwah, Mai.

B.vii. D. 7-8 1^. P. 17. V. l. A. „$,. 0.17. L. 1. 74. Case. py. 6.

Length of head \, of pectoral T2T, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal Jj, of base of second
dorsal \, of base of anal f of the total length. Height of head \, of body f , of first dorsal 1, of
second dorsal Tj, of ventral ^, of anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter J length of head, 1 a diameter from end of snout, f of a diameter apart.

Body elliptical, broadest in front : profile with a gradual rise from the summit, of lower jaw
to the first dorsal. Sides and head compressed. The point of the lower jaw when the mouth is
closed appears on the upper profile.

Mouth oblique and large : the lower jaw prominent, the upper extending backwards to
below the centre of the orbit. Jaws protrusible. Preorbital narrower than the maxillary : pre-
opercle narrow, with its margin entire and angle rounded, the lower limb being half the leno-th of
. the vertical one. Opercle ending in a soft point, with its inferior border concave and an emargi-
nation near its angle. Interorbital space convex : openings of nostrils close to the anterior
superior angle of the orbit. Occipital crest well developed, the lateral ridges moderately so.

Teeth — One or two long and curved on each side of the symphysis of the upper and lower
jaws, and a single series of fine curved teeth in both jaws. Teeth on vomer and palatine bones.

Fins — Ventral arises a little behind the pectoral ; first dorsal opposite the centre of the
pectoral ; anal rather nearer the snout than the base of the caudal ; the second dorsal midway
between the base of the caudal and the centre of the orbit ; the anal continued rather further
posteriorly than the second dorsal. First dorsal triangular, spines weak, the third the longest,
membrane rather deeply notched. Second dorsal spine about half the length of the first ray, which
is the longest, after which the rays gradually decrease in length, the last two being a little
prolonged, but not nearly half way to the base of the caudal fin. Pectoral rather pointed. Ventral
triangular, and not reaching so far as the anal. Anal of the same shape as the second dorsal, but
rather larger. In many specimens taken in Malabar the fin rays were invariably A. JU ; but in
several taken in Madras they were in all A. ^. Caudal rather deeply lobed.

Scales — Cycloid, large, and deciduous.

Lateral line — In the upper third of the body following the curve of the back.

Colours — The upper surface of the head aud the back as low as the lateral line of a leaden

r -1

108 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

colour : a black spot exists on the upper and posterior part of opercle. Fins diaphanous, marginal
halves of dorsals and caudal minutely dotted with black. Iris silvery, upper portion darkish.

Grows to ten inches in length, is eaten by the Natives either fresh or salted, but is insipid.
It appears in Malabar in shoals during the months of February and March.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus PEMPHERIS, Guv. and Vol.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchite. Body oblong, compressed. Eyes large, lateral. Cleft of
mouth oblique, lower jaw prominent, snout short. Opercle with a small spine. Infraorbital bones do not
articulate with the preopercle. One short elevated dorsal with five or six spines and from nine to ten
rays. Anal elongated, with three spines, scaly. Villiform teeth in jaws, vomer, and palatine bones.
Scales of moderate size, or small. Lateral line simple. Air bladder divided into an anterior and posterior
portion. Pyloric appendages in moderate numbers.

* Pempheris Molucca.

Pempheris Molucca, Guv. & Vol, vii. p. 306; Cantor, Catal. p. 175; Giiniher, Catal.

ii. p. 509.
Pempheris Malabarica, Guv. & Vol. vii. p. 308.

B. vii. D. f. P. 19. V. l A. 4J46. C. 17. L. 1. 60.

Length of head ^ of total length. Height of body \ of total length.

Byes — Nearer to the snout than to the gill opening. Diameter nearly J length of head.

The profile between the eyes is somewhat concave, owing to a projection of the upper margin
of the orbit, impinging on the line of the profile.

Teeth — Villiform in jaws, vomer, and palatine bones.

Colours — Violet brown above, fading to silvery on the abdomen and with golden reflections.
Fins rose colour or reddish yellow, upper half of dorsal spines and membrane of a dark brown.
Axil and base of pectoral white. Iris with a golden rim round the pupil.

Grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, the Moluccas, and Japan.

Fam. GOBIIDiE, Owen.

Gobioidei, pt. Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, five: pseudobranchire. Body low, and elongated. Infraorbital bones do not
articulate with the preopercle. Two dorsal fins, the anterior with from five to nine flexible spines, the
posterior soft the most developed and of the same character as the anal. Ventrals each with one spine
and five rays united, the two forming a disk. Teeth in several rows in the jaws, canines present in some
species. Anal papilla generally distinct. Gill openings of moderate width, the membranes united to the
isthmus. Scales over the body or absent. Air bladder small or absent. Pyloric appendages none.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 109

OOBIUS GIURUS.
KORAH-MOTTAH, RuSSell, pi. 50.

? Koku, Russell, pi. 51.

Gobius giurus, Ham. Buck. pp. 51, 3GG, pi. 33, f. 15 ; Guv. & Vol. xii. p. 72 ; Gi'mther,

Catal. iii. p. 21.
Gobius kokius, Guv. & Vol. xii. p. G8 ; Jerdon, Madras Journ., xv. p. 148 ; Cantor,

Catal. p. 180.
Gobius catebus, Guv. & Vol. xii. p. 76.
Gobius kora, Guv. & Vol. xii. p. 77.
Wartee poollah, and pooan, Mai.

B. iv. D. G | i P. 18-20. V. % . A. Jy. C. 17. L. 1. 26-34. Vert. \fa.

Length of head T3^, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of first dorsal fa, of second dorsal fa, of anal
fa of total length. Height of head fa, of body T^, of first dorsal fa, of second dorsal r2y, of ventral |,
of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — On upper surface of the head, directed upwards and forwards ; diameter T2g of length
of head, 2J diameters from end of snout, not quite \ a diameter apart.

Body elongated, subcylindrical and rather compressed towards the tail ; the profile from the
snout to the dorsal is in a straight line ; the head rather wider than the body.

Mouth wide ; lower jaw the longest, the upper extends to beneath the anterior margin of the
orbit; intermaxillaries rather large and protrusible. Preopercle broad, its vertical bmb about
equal in length to the horizontal, and its angle rounded. Cheeks puffed. Opercle triangular,
with the base above. Subopercle rather broad. The distance from the snout to the posterior
margin of the preopercle rather more than that from the base of the first dorsal to the posterior
margin of the orbit. Interorbital space concave from side to side. Openings of nostrils situated
midway between the eyes and snout.

Teeth — Several rows of villiform with an external row of widely separated conical ones in each
jaw. Some large canines in the upper jaw.

Fins — Pectoral arises behind the opercle, its base being broad and equal to about one-third
the height of the body : the ventrals commence under it, and the first dorsal opposite its first
third ; the second dorsal begins rather beyond the posterior extremity of the pectoral. The anal
commences under the third ray of the second dorsal. Spines of the first dorsal weak, and
prolonged, the membrane rather deeply notched, its base occupying two-elevenths less space than
the base of the second dorsal. Pectoral rounded. Ventrals united into a disk, the distance from
their posterior extremity to the vent being equal to half their length. A considerable portion of
the tail (equal to the base of the first dorsal) is finless. Caudal pointed.

Scales — Large and quadrangular, rather smaller anterior to the first dorsal, and considerably
so opposite the opercles.

Colours — Vary in different specimens according to the waters they inhabit ; they are usually
of a fawn colour, with slight cloudy markings of a darker colour, and having purplish reflections
on the body. The head has a cloudy band passing over the eyes and forehead, down towards the
corner of the mouth : another dark band passes along the lower border of the cheek, which is met
by two other narrower bands, one of which proceeds from behind the eye, and the other from the
back of the head. The lower surface of the body is white, and the sides have golden reflections,

110 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

owing to the edges of each scale being covered with little golden dots j the same golden gloss is
also apparent at the base of the pectoral. The pectoral fin has some dark marks at the base of its
rays, which have a gloss of purple in them, the fin is barred in spots, most apparent in its centre.
The first dorsal, which is diaphanous, is tipped with deep brown, its first and second rays have a
bar near their base, and some slighter markings higher up, which are continued in the form of
spots on to the other rays. The second dorsal has six rows of spots along it, and is also tipped
with a dark shade. Caudal barred in ten or twelve irregular stripes. Ventral and anal yellowish,
stained with grey at their extremities. Caudal with grey margin and dark base. Eyes hazeL

Grows to one foot and a half in length, and is found in all pieces of fresh and brackish water,
and even within the influence of the tides. Its taste is rather insipid, and muddy in some waters,
but it is highly esteemed by the Natives as food. It is a voracious fish which takes a bait freely.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Hindustan, Ceylon, Malaysia, China, and the Philippine islands.

GOBIUS VIRIDI-PUNCTATUS.

Nuna-mottah, Russell, pi. 52.

Gobius viridi-punctatus, Guv. & Val. xii. p. 62 ; Guniher, Catal. iii. p. 24.

B. iv. D. 6 | jV P. 17. V. l A. i C. 15. L. 1 28. L. fcr. 13.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal g, of base of first dorsal y'g, of base of second dorsal \,
of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head J, of body \, of first dorsal ^, of second dorsal -j^,
of anal ^> °f ventral ^ of total length.

Eyes — Partly on the upper surface of the head, directed upwards and outwards : diameter
^ of length of head, rather more than 1 diameter from end of snout, J of a diameter apart.

Body elongated, slightly tapering off towards either extremity : profile from snout to first
dorsal very slightly elevated : muzzle rounded, obtuse anteriorly.

Lower jaw slightly the longest : gape of mouth wide : the maxilla extends backwards to below
centre of orbit. Upper jaw rather protrusible. Preopercle wide, its horizontal margin of equal
length with its vertical. Opercle narrow superiorly, one fifth of the length of the head, and narrow-
ing inferiorly. Anterior margin of orbit raised, as is also the superciliary ridge. Interorbital
space narrow and concave from side to side. Openings of nostrils just anterior to and opposite the
lower margin of the orbit.

Teeth — In jaws villiform, with an external row of larger and distant ones in the upper jaw,
and some large conical external ones in the lower, some of which are as large as canines.

Fins — Ventrals united, short, and arising on the lower surface rather behind the commence-
ment of the pectoral : the first dorsal arises opposite the posterior fourth of the pectoral, and the
second dorsal rather behind the middle of the total length. First dorsal triangular, its spines
weak, and then- terminations almost filamentous : the interspinous membrane rather deeply
notched. Second dorsal and anal cut square, their posterior extremities slightly produced owing
to the last rays being rather prolonged, reaching almost to the root of the caudal. Pectoral bluntly
pointed. Caudal wedge-shaped, its central rays the longest.

Scales — Of a quadrangular form, longest diameter from above downwards. They cover the
body, upper portion of opercle, and base of caudal : each is striated in very fine raised lines con-
\ erging posteriorly. The scales on the nape are smaller than those on the body.

Colours — Greyish brown above, some irregular bands or blotches of brown along the sides,
abdomen dirty white. The whole of the dark portion of the body is covered with small metallic

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. ]H

emerald green spots. Fins dusky, upper third of dorsal brownish grey. Eyes metallic emerald
green. After death many of the spots disappear.

Grows to five inches in length. Is captured in the sea, and also in the mouths of the rivers.
Is not uncommon.

Habitat — Seas of India.

* GOBIUS CKINIGEE.

Gobius ceiniger, Guv. & Veil, xii. p. 82; Cantor, Catal. p. 18-4; G anther, CataL iii.
p. 29.

B. v. D. 6 | J, P. 17. V. I. A. i C. 13. L. 1. 34.

Length of head | of the total length. Height of body 1, of head i of first dorsal |, of second
dorsal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, }2 a diameter apart, 1 diameter from end of snout.

Teeth — Minute, velvety, and of nearly equal length.

Fins — The second ray of the anterior dorsal is the longest, and terminates in a filament ; its
length is nearly three quarters of the total length. Nine rows of scales between the second dorsal
and anal fins. Caudal rounded.

Scales — None on head or neck : the rest of the body covered with large ctenoid and faintly
striated ones.

Colours — " Pale ochreous, with faint silvery lustre ; abdomen whitish ; head and upper jaw
black ; three round black spots on the cheeks ; a fourth larger at posterior angle of the orbit ; a
similar on the opercle ; on the sides three large rounded black spots : the anterior behind the
pectoral fin, spreading on the back ; the second below the posterior part of the second dorsal, and
the third at the root of the tail. Between the spots are several smaller, irregular black marks. The
fin membranes whitish, that of the ventral minutely dotted with black. That of the two dorsals
and the caudal with large black spots : the free margin of the caudal and anal black." — Cantor.

Grows to five inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, North-west coast of Australia, and New Guinea.

Gobius Malabaricus. Plate VI L f. 2.

Gobius Malabaricus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G5. p. 27.

B. iv. D. 6 | TV P. 13. V. 4. A. TV C. 13. L. 1. 50. L. tr. 10.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of first 'dorsal \, of base of second
dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal J, of second
dorsal \, of ventral \s of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, ^ a diameter apart.

Snout obtuse, its upper profile descending abruptly, from it to the first dorsal there is only a
slight rise. Maxilla extends backwards as far as the anterior third of orbit. A moderately strong
prominent crest at the nape. The bony ridge between the orbits narrow, with a low crest along
its centre. Orbits very closely approximating at their upper surface : a well developed projecting
angle at their anterior and posterior margins, the anterior the strongest. A bony ring around
nasal apertures.

Teeth — Conical : an external row in upper jaw the largest. Smaller but conical in lower jaw;

112 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fins — Origin of ventral in front of pectoral, of first dorsal over anterior third of pectoral.
Distance between first and second dorsal equals diameter of eye. Dorsal spines weak. Caudal
wedge-shaped.

Scales — Nearly quadrangular, elevated along their centres : none on the head.

Colours — Of a general light brown, with some irregularly disposed dusky vertical bands on
the sides and back. A dark bar runs directly downwards from the eye, and several irregular
brown bands exist about the opercles and on the head. The first dorsal has a deep black cres-
centic mark, commencing between its second and third spine, and being continued to its last,
above it is a curved white band bordered superiorly by black. Second dorsal, caudal and anal
brownish, with several rows of spots of a darker colour.

Common in the Kurriavanoor river north of Cochin, when the freshes from the ghauts rush
down to the sea. The size does not appear to exceed three inches.

Habitat — Rivers of Malabar.

* GOBIUS NEGLECTUS.

Gobius neglectus, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 148.
? Bullee kokah, Russell, pi. 53.

B. iv. D. 6 | 11. A. 10-11. L. 1. about 50.

Length of head \ of total length. Diameter of eye \ length of head, nearly 1 diameter apart.
Profile of head sloping from eye to muzzle.

Colours — Nearly uniformly fulvous, with occasionally some dark markings on the back :
second dorsal and caudal spotted.
Grows to eight inches in length.
Habitat — Rivers of Malabar and Coromandel.

Gobius acutipinnis.

Gobius acutipinnis, Cuv. & Vol. xii. p. 80 ; Giintlier, Catal. iii. p. 44.
Gobius setosus, Cuv. & Vol. xii. p. 81.

B. iv. D. 6 | lo.Ly. P. 19. V. £. A. TL. C. 19. L. 1. 25. L. tr. 6.

Length of head \, of pectoral §, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal ], of base of second
dorsal \, of base of anal \ of the total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal \, of
second dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal \ of the total length.

Eyes — Directed upwards and outwards, diameter \ length of head, \ a diameter apart, 1 dia-
meter from end of snout.

Body elongated, rather compressed, abdominal profile rather more curved than that of the
back.

Muzzle rounded, maxilla extending posteriorly to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit.
Opercle rounded. Preopercle rectangular, its angle rounded.

Teeth — Villiform, with a larger external row.

Fins — Dorsal and ventral arise slightly in advance of the pectoral : the second dorsal opposite
the ninth row of scales : the anal opposite the third dorsal ray. First dorsal spines weak, pro-
longed into filaments, the fourth and fifth being of equal length and the longest : the interspinous

PLATE VII

J'ti/ .

/'ill

F.Dik, dcl.el ■<■•■!•//•.

/ rrsni's piwciAiirs, 2. Gonitis malabari c r s . ." itntii s i'aiiuah

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. ' '•'

membrane deeply notched. Second dorsal trapezoid, its rays branched. Caudal wedge-shaped,

its central rays the longest. Pectoral pointed, itscentral rays produced. Ventrals joined together.
Anal trapezoid, its rays filamentous.

Scales — Exposed portions quadrangular, longest diameter from above downwards, striated
iu very fine raised lines converging posteriorly. No scales on cheek, a very few over base of

caudal.

Colours — Greyish brown above, whitish brown underneath : four or five dull blotches, almost
forming bands, pass from the back to the sides, and a deep brown mark exists at the base of the
caudal. A brownish line descends from the lower margin of the eye to the angle of the mouth.
The first dorsal has four rows of brown spots, almost forming lines, the colour and size of which
are most distinct on the first spine, and less so towards the last ; the rows of spots again become
well-marked on the anterior portion of the second dorsal, but are lost towards its posterior
extremity. There are some obscure brownish bars on the posterior half of the caudal, which are
most distinct on its central rays. Pectoral, ventral and anal are stained with darkish slate colour,
which tint also forms the ground of the other fins.

Grows to four inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India.

Genus APOCEYPTES, Owner.

Branchiostegals, five: pseudobranchi*. rudimentary. Body elongated. Infraorbital ring of bones
does not articulate with the preopercle. The first dorsal fin separated from or continuous with the second
dorsal. Ventrals united. Gill openings of moderate width, united to the isthmus. Scales small, generally
larger posteriorly.

APOCEYPTES EICTUOSUS.

Apoceyptes eictuosus, Guv. & Val. xii. p. 151 ; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 82.

B. iv. D. 6 | 24-27. P. 20. V. \. A. 26-29. L. 1. about 75.

Length of head ft, of pectoral 1, of caudal J to \, of base of first dorsal ft, of base of
second dorsal J, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head ft, of body ft, of first dorsal
ft, of second dorsal ft, of anal ft, of ventral ft of total length.

Eyes-Looking upwards and outwards, horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter £ of length of
head, \ of a transverse diameter apart, rather more than 1 diameter from end of snout.

Body elongated, rather compressed, head depressed.

Mouth rounded anteriorly, cleft oblique, its depth one quarter greater than its width, and
extending to beneath the posterior margin of the orbit : upper jaw notched anteriorly : lower jaw
slightly prominent. Preopercle, its vertical and horizontal limbs of equal length, angle rounded.
Op°ercle large, rounded posteriorly. An elevated longitudinal crest extends backwards from the
centre of the interorbital space. Nostrils opposite the anterior superior angle of the orbit.

Teeth— Rather long and curved, in a single closely set series in both jaws, about twenty-eight
in the lower, and thirty-two in the upper. Two large teeth inside the lower jaw on either side of
the symphysis.

Q

114 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fins — Pectoral and ventral arise on a line ; the first dorsal opposite the middle third of the
pectoral, and the second dorsal opposite its posterior extremity. The anal arises under the second
dorsal. All the spines and rays of the fins are weak. Caudal wedge-shaped.

Scales — Rather larger in the posterior than in the anterior part of the body.

Colours — Greyish, lighter towards the abdomen, with oblique bands passing downwards and
forwards from the bases of the dorsal fins half way to the abdomen. Pectoral, ventral, and anal
whitish ; the first and second dorsals grey, stained with brown, caudal and posterior third of dorsal
dark grey spotted with brown. The inside of the mouth spotted with black points.

Grows to seven inches in length, and is not uncommon in Malabar.

Habitat— Seas and estuaries of India.

Genus ELEOTRIS, Gronov.

Philypnus, Cuvier.

Bostrichthys, (Dumeril) Gill.

Culius, butis, Valenciennea, belobeanchus, et eleoteiodes, Bleeker.

Lembus, GUnther.

Branchiostegals, from four to six : pseudobranchise. Body subcylindrical. Eyes moderate, lateral.
Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Two dorsal fins, the anterior with from five to eight
spines : the posterior soft, the most developed, and of the same character as the anal. Ventrals with their
bases approximating but not united. Teeth variously disposed, or even absent on vomer and palate : villi-
form in the jaws. Gill opening of moderate width. Scales over body and head. Air bladder large.

Eleotris butis.
Cheilodipterus butis, Ham. Buck. pp. 57, 367; Gray, 111. I. Z. ii. pi. 93, f. 3.
Eleotris humeralis, Guv. & Vol. xii. p. 246.
Eleotris butis, Cantor, Catal. p. 196 ; GUnther, Catal. iii. p. 116.
Kullahray, Mai.

B. vi. D. 6 |f P. 17. V. i. A. i C. 15. L. 1. 28. L. tr. 12. Vert. jf.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal J, of base of first dorsal y^, of base of second
dorsal }, of base of anal T2f of total length. Height of head J, of body \, of first dorsal j%, of
second dorsal T2T, of anal T2f , of ventral g of total length.

Byes — Diameter \ of length of head, 2| diameters from end of snout, 2 diameters apart.

There is a considerable rise from the snout to the first dorsal, the profile of the back being
arched, whilst that of the abdomen is straight. The greatest width of the body is opposite the
base of the pectoral fin.

Gape of mouth wide, upper jaw protrusible, snout broad and depressed, the posterior ex-
tremity of the maxilla extends to opposite the anterior margin of the orbit : interorbital space
rather convex. Preopercle with its horizontal border nearly one and a half times as long as its
vertical, angle rounded and destitute of spines : nine series of scales exist between it and the orbit.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 115

Opercle wider above than below, and ending posteriorly in .1 blunt point: it has six transverse
rows of scales. Nostrils midway between the orbit and the snout.

Teeth — In villiforni bands in both jaws.

Fins — The ventral arises rather in front of tho pectoral, the first dorsal over its anterior
fourth, and the second dorsal over its posterior fourth. First dorsal spines weak, its membrane
deeply notched, and its form triangular : the second trapezoid with the last rays rather prolonged.
Pectoral rounded, and extending as far as the commencement of the anal. Ventral triangular.
Anal of the same shape as the second dorsal. Caudal wedge-shaped.

Scales — Cycloid, quadrangular, their longest exposed portions from above downwards, those
on the head smaller than those over the body ; they are extended over the opercles and summit of
the head as far as the nostrils.

Colours — Greenish black, with vermilion spots irregularly disposed over the body. Pectoral,
second dorsal, and caudal tipped with scarlet : first dorsal dark, more especially at its base. Second
dorsal with four or five black bars on a deep grey ground. Caudal also barred with brown, but
having some scarlet spots mostly at its upper part, occasionally it has a black base. Pectoral
black, with its base margined with bright scarlet, and with some irregular transverse black bands
and red blotches upon it. Anal deep grey barred with brown, and margined with scarlet. Eyes
hazel. In the monsoon time the dark red on the fins becomes more of an orange colour, and
numerous orange dots appear on the body below the lateral line, also on the throat and under
surface of the abdomen. As the monsoon continues the upper half of the caudal becomes whitish,
and the scarlet margin to the anal also becomes white.

Grows to six inches in length ; common in the sea and also in the backwaters. Is eaten by
the Natives.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and the Philippine Islands.

Eleoteis fusca.
P/ECiLiA fusca, Bl. Schn. p. 453.

Cheilodipterus culius, Ham. Bach. pp. 55, 367, pi. 5, f. 1G.
Eleotris nigra, Guv. & Vol. xii. p. 233.
Eleotris fusca, Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 125.
Poollan, Hal.

B. vi. D. 6 |f P. 17. V. J. A. £. C. 15. L. 1. 60-65. L. tr. 21-23. Vert. Q,

Length of head rather more than \, of pectoral \, of caudal ^, of base of first dorsal TL,
of base of second dorsal \, of base of anal t'q of total length. Height of head \, of body J, of
first dorsal yg, of second dorsal ^, of ventral \, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Transversely oval, situated near the profile ; horizontal diameter rather more than £,
vertical diameter \ of the length of head, \\ diameters apart, 1 diameter from the end of the
snout.

Body broad in front, compressed behind, and nearly as wide across the shoulder as it is high :
the abdominal profile more curved than that of the back, which is nearly straight.

Head depressed, upper jaw oblique and slightly protrusible, extending posteriorly to beneath
the centre of the orbit: lower jaw horizontal. Preopercle, with the posterior limb directed
slightly backwards, its angle rounded, and a sharp spine directed downwards and a little for-

Q 2

116 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

wards ; the horizontal limb rather longer than the vertical one. Opercle rather inflated, and rounded
posteriorly. Interorbital space nearly flat. Anterior nostril tubular. Snout short and depressed.

Teeth — Fine, short, sharp, and recurved, irregular in size and forming bands in both jaws,
which decrease in width posteriorly.

Fins — Ventral arises under pectoi'al ; first dorsal opposite the first third of the pectoral ;
second dorsal midway between the snout and the posterior extremity of the caudal, and the
anal opposite the third ray of the second dorsal. The last quarter of the body finless. First
dorsal quadrangular, its spines weak, and membrane notched. Second dorsal trapezoid, with the
posterior rays somewhat prolonged. Anal the same as the second dorsal. Ventral, with its second,
third, and fourth rays prolonged. Pectoral rounded, the central rays the longest. Caudal rhom-
boidal or rounded, the central rays being the longest.

Scales — Exposed portions quadrangular : they extend over the body and upper surface of the
head as far as the snout, where they are small, and on the opercles minute.

Colours — Leaden black, lighter on the abdomen, with sometimes a yellowish tinge. Pectoral
and ventral occasionally yellowish. Some fine horizontal bars on the dorsal fin, which is also
covered with some fine spots ; sometimes the sides are barred. The colours depend on the waters
the fish inhabits ; if very clear, the back is sometimes lighter than the abdomen. Pectoral fin with
a black base.

Inhabits most of the muddy ditches and tanks in Malabar, is often found in the paddy fields,
and sometimes in the backwater. Much esteemed for eating in the Mauritius when fried. Grows
to four inches in length.

Habitat — The fresh waters of the whole of the Peninsula of India ; also found in Madagascar,
the Mauritius, and Polynesia.

Genus AMBLYOPUS, Guv. and Val.

Gobioides, Lacep.

Branchiostegals, four or five : pseudobranchiae none. Body elongated, head obloug, no cavity above
opercle ; cleft of mouth directed upwards, and lower jaw prominent. Eyes lateral, small, more or less
hidden. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Oue dorsal, the first portion consisting
of five undivided rays, separated from the soft portion by an interval, iu the centre of which is situated a
sixth simple ray : the dorsal and anal fins are more or less continuous with the caudal. Ventrals united.
Teeth small, with an external row of large conical curved distant ones. Scales rudimentary or absent. Air
bladder small or none.

Amblyopus Hermannianus.

? Cepola Hermanniana, Shaw, Zool. iv. p. 191.
Gobioides rubicundus, Ham. Buck. pp. 37, 365, pi. 5, f. 9.

Amblyopus Hermannianus, Cuv. & Val. xii. p. 159, pi. 350; Giiniker, Catal. iii.
p. 135.

Amblyopus mayenna, Guv. &■ Val. xii. p. 163.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 1 1 7

B.v. D.^OT. P. 15. V.£. A.,;('.,,. C.13.

Length of head ^, of pectoral ^s, of caudal -,*,, of base of hard dorsal T'5, of base of soft
dorsal above J, of base of anal nearly | of total length. Height of head T\, , of body I, of hard
dorsal gL, of soft dorsal g\„ of ventral j^, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Minute.

Body eel-shaped, with the sides and cheeks rather compressed.

Mouth directed upwards, very wide, one fourth more so than deep. Lower jaw the longest,
with a tubercle at symphysis. Preopercle as wide as high, angle oblique : opercle rounded pos-
teriorly. The centre third of the summit of the head triangular, the apex of the triangle winch
is posterior, being rounded : a longitudinal ridge down its mesial line, whilst its sides are elevated,
and occipital crest sharp. Lower jaw without barbels.

Teeth — Vary in different specimens. In the upper jaw there is a single posterior row of
villiform ones, with some curved conical ones externally, one or two near the symphysis being
more especially large ; posteriorly they decrease in size, and there are about eight on each side.
Lower jaw with two rows of villiform teeth internally, and four or more curved conical ones exter-
nally, the two posterior of which are usually the largest ; the whole of this external row is outside
the upper jaw when the mouth is closed.

Fins — Pectoral and ventral on a line : hard dorsal commences over the middle of the pectoral,
and soft dorsal in the second third of the body, between the snout and base of caudal. Anal begins
under the third dorsal ray. The sixth dorsal spine is some distance in front of the fifth : its soft
portion and the anal are joined to the caudal, but the distinctions between them are apparent.
Caudal pointed.

Scales — In crypts anteriorly, and not very distinct, but posteriorly some are more apparent
than others. They extend over the body, but there are none on the bases of the fins.

Lateral line — Depressed, and where the superior and inferior muscular insertions join it, there
are small orifices like pin holes.

Colours — Of a bright rosy pink, with the lateral line and all the muscular insertions whitish.
The divisions between the opercles, interopercles, and subopercles, are all marked by dotted lines ;
there is also a line of glands along the side of the lower jaw. Fins yellowish ; caudal at times with
a few red markings, and its base stained with a darkish tint. After the fish has been sodden in
water a short time, the colours change to a general bluish grey.

Grows to seven inches in length.

Habitat — Estuaries of India and China.

Amblyopus c^eculus.

? Cepola c^ecula, Bl. Schn. p. 241, t. 54.

Amblyopus CjEculus, Guv. & Vol. xii. p. 165 ; Gunther, Catal. iii. p. 133.

Amblyopus Hermannianus, Cantor, Catal. p. 190.

B. v. D. jo.6^. P. 15. V. i. A. 38-45. C. 13.

Length of head \ to \, of pectoral £$, of caudal ^ of total length. Height of body ,'s of
total length.

Eyes — Minute.

Body elongated and scaleless. Head as wide as the body.

118 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Mouth directed upwards, its gape wide : lower jaw the longest, with some barbels on it.
Each nostril has a small aperture near the orbit.

Teeth — A band of villiform ones posteriorly and of curved conical ones externally.

Fins — Dorsal and anal united with the caudal, and enveloped in a thick skin. Ventrals

united.

Colours — Head and back of a brownish ochre. Sides dullish red, becoming dirty whitish
with a red tinge on the abdomen. All the fins of a dirty reddish tint.

Grows to one foot two inches in length. Is employed as food.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus TRYPAUCHEN, Cuv. and Vol,

Branchiostegals, four. Body elongated, head moderately compressed, a deep cavity above opercle not
communicating with the branchial. Infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. Eyes
minute. One dorsal, which as well as the anal are continuous with the caudal. Ventrals united. Teeth
without canines. Scales minute.

Trypauchen vagina.

Gobius vagina, Bl. Schn. p. 73, no. 20.
Gobioides ruber, Ham. Buck. pp. 38, 365.

Trypauchen vagina, Cuv. & Vol. xii. p. 153, pi. 351 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 190; Giinther,
Catal. iii. p. 137.

B. iv. D. ^oSnr R25- V-*- A-^Ve- 0. 13.

Length of head £, of pectoral ^ of caudal £, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal | of total
length. Height of head j\, of body ^fc, of dorsal Jg, of anal ^, of ventral T^, of the total length.

Eyes— Apparently small black points, £ length of head from snout, and about the same
distance apart.

Body — Elongated and compressed, the head rather wide.

Mouth wide and oblique ; the lower jaw the longest, broad and shallow. Preopercle wide,
the angle rounded, its horizontal limb being one third longer than its vertical. Opercle wide, and
with radiated raised lines upon it : both it and the subopercle covered with narrow depressions, as
is also the upper surface of the head.

Teeth — An external row of long curved teeth in each jaw, with a row of shorter ones inter-
nally. None on the palate or tongue.

Fins — Pectoral and ventral arise on a line : dorsal opposite the posterior third of the pectoral.
Caudal produced and pointed.

Scales minute.

Lateral line central.

Colours — Dirty white, with a slightly rosy tint, the back darker, almost of a dirty brown.
Dorsal and anal stained black in their external halves. Caudal dirty brownish black. Pectoral
and ventral colourless.

Not rare at Cochin, where it enters the backwaters. It grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia, and China.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 119

Fam. BATRACHIDiE.
Genus Batraciius, Klein.

Branchiostegals, sis : pseudobranchise none. Head broad depressed, body subcylindrical anteriorly,
compressed posteriorly. Eyes lateral or approximating superiorly. Mouth widely cleft, lips frequently
surmounted by tentacles. Gill covers spinate. Two dorsals, the anterior spinous and short ; the posterior
long and similar to the anal. Ventrals jugular with three rays, the anterior of which is simple, elongated
and flattened. Teeth on the jaws, vomer, and palatine bones. Scales absent or rudimentary. Air bladder
present, constricted into two lateral portions.

Batrachus GRUNNIENS.

Cottus geunniens, var. B. Linn. Gmelin, i. p. 1209.

Batrachus grunniens, Block, pi. 179 ; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 168.

Batrachoides Gangene, Ham. Buck. pp. 34, 365, pi. 14, f. 1.

B. vi. D. 3 | 20. P. 25. V. *. A. 14-18. C. 12. Opercular spines iv.

Length of head f, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal £5, of base of second
dorsal f , of base of anal J of the total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal T!g, of
second dorsal fc, of anal y^, of ventral \ of total length.

Eyes — On upper and outer side of head, diameter § of length of head, 1 diameter apart,
I a diameter from end of snout.

Body longest in front, widest opposite the end of the opercle, where it is nearly two thirds
the height of body. Head flat, depressed, and obtuse in front. Body rather compressed posteriorly.

Lower jaw the longest, rather pointed in front, and with a tubercle on symphysis. Gape
of mouth very wide. The maxilla rather notched in the centre and extending to beneath the
posterior margin of the orbit. Lips fleshy, and surrounded by a wreath of short tentacles.
Intermaxillaries protrusible. Preopercle as long as high. Opercle with two strong spines on its
posterior margin, the largest equal to two thirds of the diameter of the orbit, they are connected
at their bases, the superior passes upwards, backwards, and slightly outwards, the inferior directly
backwards and slightly outwards. From the subopercle proceed two more spines also connected
together at their bases, neither so long, nor so strong as the upper two, but passing in the
same direction. Preorbital small. Upper surface of the head lineated in ridges. The posterior
processes of the intermaxillaries extend backwards to opposite the centre of the orbit. A groove
passes from the posterior margin of one orbit to that of the other. At the anterior superior
margin of the orbit exists a blunt elevation, sometimes surmounted by a tentacle.

Teeth — In numerous, sharp, pointed, irregular rows in both upper and lower jaws, which
become a single series posteriorly. Teeth also on the vomer and palatines, forming a single semi-
circular band rather larger than those in the jaws.

Fins — The ventral arises under the throat : the pectoral which has a long muscular base,
commences from behind the opercles : it has no foramen in the axil. The first dorsal commences
opposite the posterior margin of the origin of the pectoral : the anal opposite the fourth ray of the
dorsal. Ventral pointed. Pectoral wedge-shaped. First dorsal triangular : spines moderately
strong, the second being the longest : second dorsal, and anal trapezoid. Caudal wedge-shaped.

120 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Colours — Of a dirty olive brown, with irregular vertical brown and black bands or marblings.
Fins yellowish brown, with cloudy black markings. Eyes reddish.

Grows to six inches in length. Is common in the backwaters within the influence of the tides.
It emits a croaking noise when captured, and can live some time out of water. Is not eaten. Fishes
of this genus, Cantor observes, are considered so poisonous in Pinang that they are rejected even
as manure.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India and Malaysia.

Batrachus trispinosus.

Batrachus grunniens, Guv. & Vol. vii. p. 466 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 205.
Batrachus trispinosus, Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 169.

B. vi. D. 3 | 20-22. P. 25. V. J. A. 14-16. C. 12. Opercular spines iii.

Length of head f, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal -fa, of base of second
dorsal f, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head y\, of body ], of first dorsal ^, of
second dorsal \, of anal *fc, of ventral fc of total length.

Eyes — On upper and outer surface of the head, diameter 6-| times in length of head, 1J dia-
meters apart, \ a diameter from the end of the snout.

General appearance the same as in the Batrachus grunniens, but the lower jaw is more rounded,
the maxilla passing beyond the posterior margin of the orbit ; the remainder of the head, however,
is very similar in both.

Teeth — In the lower jaw a single series of strong conical teeth, which becomes double on the
symphysis. A double row of strong conical teeth on the vomer and palatine bones, extending
posteriorly beyond the intermaxillaries. Intermaxillary teeth minute, in a double series, extending
from the symphysis to opposite the eyes.

Colours — Summit of head, back and sides light greenish, or brownish olive. Abdomen
greenish or brownish white ; head marbled and spotted with black ; body with more or less dis-
tinct oblique and vertical broad bands edged and spotted with black, and darker than the ground
colour : fleshy filaments buff, fins of the ground colour of the body ; dorsals and anal indistinctly
clouded with black, or with very oblique blackish bands ; caudal, pectoral, and ventral with
blackish spots or narrow vertical bands. Iris silvery olive ; orbital part blackish.

Air bladder separated into two lateral divisions, united by a narrow transverse channel.

Grows to ten inches in length, and is said to be eaten in Bombay.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India and Malaysia.

* Batrachus Dussumieri.
Batrachus Dussumieri, Cuv. & Val. xii. p. 474, pi. 367 ; Guntker, Catal. iii. p. 169.

B. vi. D. 3 | 20. A. 16. V. A Opercular spines iii.

Said to differ from the last chiefly in having straight bands of villiform teeth in the palate
and lower jaw instead of strong and conical ones, and a very short tentacle above the orbit instead
of a large one.

Colours — Above deep brown, side and abdomen grey olive brown ; three large dark brown
bands pass downwards, ending in an irregular manner on the sides. In the fresh state the tints

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 1-1

are said to be of a dark green marbled with dirty yellow. Fins greyish olive, blackish towards
their borders.

Air bladder the same as in the last species.

Grows to ten inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

Fam. PEDICULATI, Cuvier.
Genus ANTENNARIUS, Commerson.
Chironectes, pt., Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchiaj none. Head and anterior portion of body large, high, and
compressed. Eyes lateral. Mouth vertical or subvertical. Two dorsals, the first with three spines,
the anterior of which is modified into a tentacle situated above the snout. The soft dorsal of moderate
length, and more developed than the anal. Yentrals jugular, with four or five soft rays. Pectoral arising
from a species of arm formed by the prolongation of the carpal bones. Teeth in cardiform or villiform
bands on jaws, vomer, and palatine bones. Skin naked, or covered with minute spines. Gill opening
reduced to a small foramen situated in or near the axil. Air bladder present. Stomach wide. Pyloric
appendages none.

* ANTENNARIUS MARMORATUS.

Chironectes marmoratus, Cuv. & Vol. xii. p. 402 ; G'uniher, Catal. iii. p. 185.
Chironectes nesogallicus, Cuv. & Vol. xii. p. 401.
Antennarius raninus, Cantor, Catal. p. 292.

D. 3 | 12. P. 10. A. 7. Vert. f.

The variations in this species due to age or locality are so considerable that two specimens are
very rarely found possessing complete similarity. The skin may be smooth, minutely or distinctly
granulated : whilst the length of the third dorsal spine varies from one-half to less than one-third of
the height of the body.

The anterior dorsal spine is short, slender, and terminates in a small knob with a minute
tentacle attached to it, which is sometimes very short, or it may be entirely absent : the second and
third spines are fringed on their summits. The last dorsal ray, if laid backwards, extends to or
slightly beyond the root of the caudal.

Head and body with cutaneous tentacles, those at the angle of the mouth and on the abdomen
being the largest.

Colours — Vary, generally reddish yellow marbled with brown : and brown spots mostly edged
with white radiate from the eye. Bound white spots on sides, and abdomen. In some the fins
are banded. Iris golden, with radiating brown lines.

Habitat — Seas between the Tropics.

* Antennarius nummifer.

Chironectes nummifer, Cuv. & Vol. xii. p. 425 ; G'uniher, Catal. iii. p. 195.
D. 3 I 12. P. 9-10. V. 5-6. A. 7.

122 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

Anterior dorsal spine short, having a cuneiform extremity. Cutaneous fringes not numerous.

Skin rough, covered with small spines.

Colours — Violet or red, with yellowish or nacreous spots, one below the posterior portion
of the dorsal fin being the largest. Abdomen with numerous brown spots. Fins marbled with
brown.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India and Malaysia.

Gobioidei, pt., Cuvier.
Blennioidei, M'dller.

Fam. BLENNIIDiE, Owen.

Genus SAL ARIAS, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchiae. Body moderately elongated. Eyes lateral. Cleft of mouth
transverse, snout short. The infraorbital bones do not articulate with the preopercle. One dorsal,
occupying most of the extent of the back, in some species divided into two by a notch. Anal fin long.
Ventrals jugular, with a hidden spine and from two to four rays. Tentacle above orbit more or less
developed. Teeth small, numerous, moveable in the jaws where they are implanted into the gums, usually
a curved canine on either side of lower jaw behind the smaller rows. Palate usually smooth. Skin
naked. Gill openings wide. Air bladder and pyloric appendages absent.

Salaeias FASCIATUS.

Blennius fasciatus, Bloch, p. 1076, t. 162, f. 1.

Salaeias fasciatus, Cuv. & Vol. xi. p. 324 ; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 244.

B. vi. D. if P- 15- V. J. A. 24. C. 11.

Length of head -6, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal ^> of soft dorsal |, of ventral }, of anal j\
of total length.

Eyes — Upper margins close to profile, diameter | length of head, £ of a diameter apart, 1 dia-
meter from end of the snout.

Body elongated, almost rhomboidal, largest in front, where the head has a rounded external
profile, which is considerably sloped, forming a curve from the snout to the first dorsal. Mouth
almost on the lower surface. From the commencement of the dorsal to that of the caudal the line
of the profile is straight, and is parallel to the abdominal surface.

Mouth anterior and very low down : its gape extends one-third the distance to the orbit, and
the posterior extremity of the maxilla to beneath the orbit. Opercle rounded posteriorly. Pre-
opercle wide, with a rounded angle. Two elongated simple tentacles arise between the orbits, on
the anterior half of the head. Gill openings very small, situated above and in front of the pectoral
fin.

Teeth — A single row of fine ones in each jaw, two large recurved sharp canines in lower jaw.

Fins — Dorsal arises over the opercle : pectoral opposite the fourth dorsal spine : ventral
in front of it : anal opposite the commencement of the soft dorsal. Dorsal spines weak,
membrane scarcely emarginate, the third spine higher than the first two, from whence they

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 123

continue the same. Soft dorsal rather longer than the unbranched portion: pectoral rounded.
Ventral pointed, with two elongated rays, the outer one being a third shorter than the inner one,
the most elongated one roaches to the anterior extremity of the pectoral fin. Anal parallel to
the back. Caudal square.

Body naked, covered with mucous secretions.

Lateral line — Straight, and in upper third of the body.

Colours — Of a light brownish tint, with twelve vertical markings along the base of the dorsal
fin, passing downwards towards the abdomen in the form of light cloudy bands, which disappear
below the lateral lino : on these bands, where they meet the lateral line, there is generally a
spot, and an intermediate one between that and the upper one. The head of a light yellowish
brown colour, with a dark streak passing down the snout, and another from the side of the eye
forwards, whilst other well-defined bands radiate about the throat, and the base of the pectoral fin.
A beautiful fine line of a lustrous metallic green passes directly downwards behind the eye. Fins
colourless, excepting the first thirteen rays of the dorsal, which are tipped with bright yellow.

Grows to about three inches in length, and is found in Malabar during the monsoon.

Habitat— Eed Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, the Philippine Islands, and through the Indian
Archipelago to Polynesia.

Fam. TEUTHIDID^]. Gunther.

Teuthyes, pt., Cuvier.

Genus TEUTHIS, Linn.

Siganus, Forskal.
Centrogaster, Houttuyn.
Amphacanthus, Bl. Schn.

Branchiostegals, five : pseudobranchise. Body oblong and compressed. Eyes lateral. Mouth slightly
cleft and little protractile. One dorsal, with a horizontal spine in front of it, and the spinous portion
more developed than the soft. Ventral fins with three soft rays in each, and an external and internal spine.
Teeth small, trenchant, and in a single row on the jaws, none on the vomer or palatine bones. Scales
very small. Lateral line continuous. Air bladder large, forked both anteriorly and posteriorly. Pyloric
appendages few.

Teuthis VERMICULATA.

Amphacanthus vermiculatus, Cuv. & Vol. x. p. 126.
Teuthis vermiculatus, Gunther, Catal. iii. p. 317.
Kuterah, Mai.

B.v. D.Jfo-. P. 16. V. f. A.s_V C. 17.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal f, of base of anal § of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral J, of anal spines
\, of anal rays i of total length.

124 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Byes — Their upper margins close to the profile : diameter J length of head, l\ diameters from
end of snout, rather more than 1 diameter apart.

Body oval, with superior and inferior profile about equally convex. From the snout to the
dorsal there is a considerable rise, the upper jaw being elevated like a parrot's bill.

The upper jaw if anything is slightly the longest ; the maxilla extends about half .way to the
orbit. The mouth is narrow and the lips fleshy. The margins of the orbits are roughened in
places, owing to several furrows terminating there, but are not denticulated. Preorbital roughened
in irregular lines. Preopercle high and narrow, with its angle slightly produced and rounded, its
horizontal length being two thirds that of its vertical, the whole is roughened in lines which are
deepest about the angle and the horizontal portion, where they coalesce. Opercle narrow, about
twice as high as wide, and ending in a dull point. Branchiostegal rays entirely hidden by the
gill covers. Interorbital space with a ridge down its centre, and also along each side, approaching
each other closely at the snout. Nostrils rather wide apart, the distance of the anterior one from
the superior margin of the upper jaw equals the distance of the posterior one from the margin of
the orbit, whilst they are slightly less than this distance apart. Shoulder bones furrowed but
entire.

Teeth — In jaws, in a single sharp and compressed row.

Fins — Pectoral commences under opercle : dorsal opposite its middle third : ventral opposite
third dorsal spine, and the anal opposite the eighth dorsal spine. Dorsal spines strong, sharp,
and capable of being laid flat, but no groove exists on the back for their reception : their base
occupies five sevenths of the entire fin, interspinous membrane deeply notched : from the fourth
spine all are of nearly equal height excepting the last, which is rather produced. In the soft
portion the second, third and fourth rays are the longest, and this portion of the fin is of rather a
triangular shape, but rounded at its posterior extremity. Anal of the same shape as the dorsal,
but the spines are rather stronger, and occupy three fifths of the entire fin. Ventral with the
external spine stronger than the internal one : the fin of the generic type. Pectoral of an obtuse
triangular form, the second ray the longest. A very short portion of the base of the tail finless.
Caudal deeply emarginate.

Scales— Small and cycloid extending over the whole body, and to the suborbital region.
Lateral fine— Conspicuous, in upper fifth of body, following the curve of the back : opposite
the end of dorsal it becomes straight, and central.

Colours— Light brownish, running into a bluish green on the back, and light bluish on the
abdomen. The whole of the body, head, forehead, and lips are lineated with undulating,
narrow blue lines, some few of which end in thick rounded points ; as a rule they are about a
fourth the width of the ground colour which they encircle, but towards the abdomen the blue
portion becomes wider and lighter, so that it appears as if the lower surface of the fish were blue,
with brown undulating lines which are rounder, and shorter than those of the back. The tail and
the caudal fin also appear as if they were blue, with brown lines. The dorsal, ventral, and anal,
brownish, and the first and last stained with a dark slate colour. The caudal of a more or less
slate coloured tint, and also stained with black at its termination. Pectoral a light slate colour,
which after death rapidly turns yellowish. Eyes light coloured. In the young specimens the
convolutions are wider, and the back greener.

It grows to eleven inches in length, and is asserted by the Natives to be good eating.
Habitat — Seas of Malabar, Malaysia, and the Mauritius.

the fishes of malabar. 125

Teuthis Java.

Teuthis Javus, Linn. Sys. i. p. 507 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 207.
Worahwah, Bussell, pi. 102.
Amphacanthus Javus, Cuv. & Val. x. p. 118.
Teuthis Javus, G-iinther, Catal. iii. p. 315.

B. v. D. \l P. 18. V. f. A.f C. 17.

Length of head §, of pectoral ^, of caudal J, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal § of total
length. Height of head i of body §, of hard dorsal j, of soft dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal 1 of
total length.

Eyes — Rather oblique and oval, being lowest in front j at the anterior third of the superior
margin they are defended by an elevated finely serrated crest. Transverse diameter \, vertical
diameter f of length of head, 1J diameters from the anterior end of the intermaxillaries.

Body elliptical, rather prolonged at either extremity. Upper and lower profiles equally convex.
Intermaxillaries forming a raised knob at the anterior point of the superior profile. Sides of
body and head strongly compressed.

Mouth small, its depth rather less than its width. Posterior extremity of the maxilla extends
to beneath the posterior nostril. Appearances of the head the same as in the T. vermiculata.
Preorbital roughened superiorly in lines running into one another, and smooth on its anterior
inferior portion. Horizontal margin of the preopercle with a few very fine serratures, its length
is rather more than three fourths of its vertical limb. Opercle about two thirds as long as wide,
ending in a dull rounded extremity. Interorbital space with a tongue-shaped shallow depression,
rounded superiorly opposite the anterior third of the orbit, broadest opposite the anterior margin
of the orbit : whilst a very indistinct ridge runs along its centre, and in its anterior half throws out
lateral branches. Above the orbit there are some raised (but not well developed) coalescing
ridges. Nostrils rather wide apart, the distance of the anterior one from the end of the preorbital
equals the distance of the posterior one from the anterior margin of the orbit, whilst they are
nearly as far asunder.

Teeth — In one flat compressed row in the jaws.

Fins — Pectoral commences under opercle, dorsal opposite its middle third; ventral opposite
third dorsal spine ; and anal opposite eighth dorsal spine. Dorsal spines strong, shaip, and capable
of being laid flat, but no groove exists in the back to receive them, their base occupies five sevenths
of the entire fin : interspinous membrane deeply notched ; from the fourth all the spines are nearly
of equal length, but the last is somewhat higher : of the soft portion the second, third, and fourth
rays are the longest, it is of rather a triangular shape with a rounded extremity. Anal of the
same shape as the dorsal, the spines rather stronger, and occupying three fifths of the entire fin.
A very short portion of the base of the tail finless. Caudal deeply emarginate.

Lateral line — First passes along the upper fifth of the back following its curve, but rather
approaching it ; towards the end of the dorsal it becomes central.

Colours — Head, back, and sides lightish brown with a tinge of blue, becoming paler towards
the abdomen. On the head and back there are numerous pale bluish grey rounded spots, which
towards the lateral fine become oval, and below it are produced forming lines, the ground
colour between, being of about equal width : they here and there coalesce, but towards the
abdomen are in alternate bands. Sides of the head of a lightish brown, shot with sulphur. Pec-

126 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

torals transparent ; the other fins minutely spotted with black, and tinged with sulphur. Iris pale
yellowish, the upper half brownish.

Said to be considered poisonous in Malaysia, but is not found to be so in Malabar. It grows

to eleven inches in length.

Habitat— Seas of India, Malaysia, and Australia.

* Teuthis SUTOR.
? BURO BRUNNEUS, Comm. V.

Amphacanthus sutor, Cuv. & Vol. x. p. 148.
Teuthis sutor, Giiniher, Catal. iii. p. 317.

B„ T) 13-14 A 7

• V. U- 10 • "a- 9-10*

Height of body not quite \ in the total length.

Colours— Greenish grey, with dull blue spots; towards the abdomen it becomes more grey.
Fins greenish : pectorals with a tinge of yellow.

Grows to one foot in length. Flesh blackish, but esteemed for food : it also salts well.
Habitat— Coast of Malabar, and the Seychelles.

Fam. ACRONURID.E, Giinther.

Teuthyes, pt., Cuvier.
Acanthuroidei, Bleeker.

Genus ACANTHUBUS, Bl, Schn.

Branchiostegals, five: pseudobranchia;. Body oblong, or elevated and compressed. Eyes
lateral. Mouth slightly cleft. One dorsal, the spinous less developed than the soft portion. Anal with
three spines. Ventrals thoracic. Tad on either side, armed with a strong moveable spine directed ante-
riorly Teeth in a single row in each jaw, trenchant, with crenulated margins, and sometimes moveable :
none on vomer or palatine bones. Scales minute, ctenoid. Lateral line continuous. Air bladder large,
and forked posteriorly. Pyloric appendages few.

Acanthurus MATOIDES.

? Acanthurus rasi, Guv. & Vol, x. p. 203.

Acanthurus matoides, Cuv. & Vol. x. p. 204; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 330.
Acanthurus annularis, Cuv. & Veil. x. p. 209 {immature, with whitish caudal ring).
Acanthurus Blochii, Cuv. & Vol. x. p. 209 {immature, without whitish caudal ring).

B.v. D.^_W P. 17. V.l A>inr_W C.16. Vert.tV

Length of head f3, of pectoral \, of caudal ^, of base of dorsal if, of base of anal f of total
length. Height of head \, of body f, of hard dorsal^, of soft dorsal \, of ventral &, of spines
of anal \, of rays of anal T2g of total length.

Eyes_Diameter T3r of length of head, 2| diameters from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body oblong, compressed: profile from snout to dorsal fin much elevated, with a depression

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 127

opposite the orbits. The height of tbo body opposito tho posterior extremities of the dorsal and
anal fins, equals one third the height opposite tho ventral and commencement of dorsal.

Month small, upper jaw slightly the longest. Preopercle long and narrow, its inferior margin
rather oblique, and more than one third the length of its posterior border, which slopes downwards
and forwards. Opercle narrow. The distance from the nostril to the anterior edge of the upper
jaw equals two thirds the length from the posterior margin of the opercle to snout.

Teeth — In a single compressed row in both jaws.

Fins — Origins of dorsal, pectoral, and ventral on a line : anal commencing opposite seventh
dorsal spine. Dorsal spines weak ; they occupy two-fifths of the base of the fin, interspinous
membrane very slightly emarginate. Second ray of pectoral the longest. Ventral pointed. Anal
similar to dorsal. Caudal emarginate.

Scales — Small,

Lateral line — At first in upper fifth of back following its course to opposite the end of the
dorsal fin, from whence it passes direct to the centre of the caudal. It curves upwards in its course
over a lancet-shaped moveable spine, which is situated at the side of the tail, directed forwards,
and receivable into a sheath.

Colours — Leaden black, with several badly marked yellow stripes or lines passing longitudi-
nally along the body in the young, but which in the adult are of a yellowish brown, with bluish
margins ; when the fish is dead it is of a dull leaden grey, and the abdomen fighter. Dorsal and
anal fins grey, with four longitudinal rusty bands. Pectoral in some specimens yellow, in others
dark grey. Ventral and caudal grey, the last usually margined with white. Iris golden.

Grows to eighteen inches in length, and is eaten by the lower classes.

Habitat — Seas of India and Polynesia.

Genus ACEONUEUS, Gronow.

ACANTHUEUS, sp., ClW. & Vol.

Branchiostegals, five : pseudobranchiaa. Body oblong, compressed. Eyes lateral. One dorsal, the
spinous portion less developed than the soft. Anal with three spines. Ventrals thoracic. Tail on either
side armed with a strong moveable spine, directed forwards. Teeth in a single trenchant row in each jaw
and lobate superiorly : none on the vomer or palatine bones. Skin with vertical striae, in some species
having fine pointed elevations. No scales.

ACEONURUS MELANURUS.

Aceonurus melanueus, Guv. & Val. x. p. 240 ; Gi'mther, Catal. iii. p. 346.

B.v. D. jf. P. 15. V. i. A. &. C. 17.

Length of head nearly \, of pectoral nearly \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal rather more
than J, of base of anal § of total length. Height of head J, of body £, of hard dorsal T2g, of
soft dorsal ^, of ventral -j^, of anal j25 of total length.

Byes — Diameter ^ length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, J a diameter apart.

Body nearly oval, widest opposite the opercles, and strongly compressed. Mouth situated
opposite the centre of the body. Profile much elevated.

128 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Mouth anteriorly compressed, gape small, situated a short distance below the level of the
orbit. Lips fleshy. Cleft of mouth extending half way to below the anterior margin of the orbit.
Preopercle narrow, the posterior margin oblique, and nearly three times as long as the inferior
which is horizontal, its angle rounded. Opercle ending in an obtuse point. Orifices of nostrils
large, circular, and approximating, situated in a furrow at the anterior superior margin of the orbit,
and having a rather strong overhanging ridge, with a slighter one below.

Teeth — In a single compressed series in each jaw.

Fins — Pectoral situated rather behind the origins of the dorsal and ventral, which
are on a line. Anal commences opposite the end of the ventral. A short portion of the tail
finless. First dorsal spines strong, and the membrane deeply emarginate : second spine the
longest, being three times higher than the first (it is serrated in front in its middle third) ; from
thence the spines decrease in thickness and length to the last : the rays are articulated, not
branched. Caudal rather emarginate. Pectoral pointed. Anal, second spine the longest and
strongest, it is rather rugose anteriorly ; the third spine is nearly as long, but much more slender.
The margin of the fin is parallel to the abdominal profile.

Body and head with a rugose cuticle, forming distinct horizontal lines, which on the body
under a magnifying glass are seen covered with triangular points, projecting backwards.

Lateral line — In upper fifth of the body, forming a curve parallel to that of the back ; opposite
the dorsal fin it passes straight to the centre of the caudal, in this horizontal portion there is a
sharp lancet-shaped spine directed forwards and receivable into a sheath on the lateral line.

Colours — Uniform, ventral fin stained blackish. A silvery band along the opercles, and part
of the abdomen.

Pare in Malabar, where it grows to about four inches in length : but Sir Emerson Tennent, in
his drawings of the " Fishes of Ceylon," has one of this species of at least twelve inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India, and China.

Fam. NANDIDjE, Gunther.
Pseudochromides, pt. MjENOIdei, pt. Midler & Troschel.

Genus NANDUS, Ouv. and Vol.
Bedula, Gray.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchife present or absent. Body oblong, compressed. Opercle with
two spines : preopercle more or less serrated : preorbital entire. The infraorbital bones do not articulate
with the preopercle. Eyes lateral. Mouth very or moderately protractile. One dorsal the spinous
portion being slightly more developed than the soft. Anal with three spines. Teeth villif'orm in the jaws
on the vomer, and palatine bones, tubercular on the pterygoid and base of the tongue. Scales ctenoid and
of moderate size. Lateral line interrupted. Air bladder large, simple. Pyloric appendages none.

Nandus MARMORATUS.

Corns nandus, Earn. Buck. pp. 96, 370, pi. 30, f. 32.

Nandus marmoratus, Guv.& Val. viii. p. 482, pi. 207; Cantor, Catal. p. 17; Jerdon,
Madras Journal, 1848, p. 141; Gunther, Catal. iii. p. 367.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. L29

Bedula Hamiltomi, Gray, 111. I. X., ii. pi. 88, £ 3.
Bedula nebulo.sa, Gray, Ibid. f. 2.

MOOTAHREE, Mill.

B. vi. D. }?:}+. P. 16. V. J. A. f\. C. 15. L. 1. 46-55. L. tr. jVtV Vert- 24-

Length of head \, of pectoral y^, of caudal yj , of base of dorsal -§, of base of anal yj of total
length. Height of head \, of body fa, of hard dorsal y1^, of soft dorsal T25, of ventral nearly },,
of anal y^ of total length.

Eyes — Rather transversely oval, nearly bordering on the profile. Diameter ^ of length of
head, rather more than 1 diameter from end of snout, and 1 diameter apart.

Snout rather elevated, and profile slightly concave opposite the orbits, from whence it rises to
the dorsal fin, the abdominal line not being so curved as that of the back. Body compressed, espe-
cially towards the tail, opposite the commencement of the dorsal fin, its thickness equals half
its height.

Mouth wide, lips thin, extremity of the upper jaw reaching to opposite the posterior margin
of the orbit. Intermaxillaries very protrusible, extending the length of the orbit, behind its
posterior border. Preopercle very finely serrated, especially about its angle, which is rounded :
horizontal hmb two-thirds the length of the vertical one. Opercle with one well-marked fine sharp
spine posteriorly, above its centre. Sub- and interopercles with some very fine serratures at their
approximating portions, which are continued a short distance along the inferior margin of the
interopercle. Between the centre of the superior orbital margin and the muzzle there are three
distinct fossae, and three more on the preorbital, whilst below the symphysis of the lower jaw there
are two pores and two fossa? posteriorly on each ramus. Between the orbit and the angle of the
preopercle are fourteen series of scales, and across the opercles about thirteen. Nostrils close to
the orbit, and opposite its superior third.

Teeth — Minute, in villiform bands on the jaws, vomer and palate. In the lower jaw there are
several rows at the centre, but only one or two on each ramus. In the upper jaw the teeth are
villiform and most numerous at its centre, but they decrease in width at the sides ; intermixed
with these there are a few larger ones in each jaw.

Fins — Origins of dorsal, pectoral and ventral on a line : anal commences opposite the soft
dorsal. Dorsal spines rather strong, their base occupying rather more than three fourths of the
fin, and are receivable into a groove : the interspinous membrane is deeply notched : soft portion
square. Pectoral short and rounded. Ventral spine weak and the fin short. Anal spines mode-
rately strong, the centre one the longest and two thirds the length of the rays : there is a groove
at its base : soft portion square. Caudal large, and cut square.

Scales — Ctenoid, covering the body, head, and even the upper jaw : none on the lower jaw ;
they are rather smaller on the nape than on the body. There are some on the bases of the soft
dorsal and anal fins.

Lateral line — Consists of minute tubes bifid at each extremity. At first it proceeds in the
upper fourth of the body for about thirty-six scales, where it abruptly ceases, but is subsequently
continued four rows lower down to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Greenish brown with brassy reflections, marbled vertically with three wide patch}'
streaks, whilst a fourth dark one passes across the base of the caudal fin. Hard portion of the
dorsal diaphanous : the soft spotted with transverse bands of brown. Caudal darkest near its
base, but with a light line dividing it from the vertical dark marking. Caudal and soft portion of
the anal spotted in transverse bars.

130 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

No pseudobranchias.

Grows to six inches in length. Common in the rivers and paddy fields. It is a voracious fish,
•preys on small cyprinidas, and is very tenacious of life.
Habitat — Fresh waters of India and Malaysia.

Nandus Malabaricus. Plate VIII.
Catopra Malabarica, Gilnther* Annals Nat. Hist. 1864, p. 375; Day, Proc.
Zool. Society, 1865, p. 30.

B. vi. I). |i. P. 15. V. 1 A. f. C. 16. L. 1. 25. L. tr. f. Vert. if.

Length of head about \, of pectoral -£-, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of
total length. Height of head \, of body J, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal }, of ventral \, of anal
) of total length.

Eyes — Diameter f length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter apart.

Body compressed ; mouth situated below the central line of the body ; there is a considerable
rise to the dorsal fin.

Jaws equal : intermaxillaries protractile, their posterior process being two-thirds the length
of the diameter of the orbit : upper lip rather fleshy. The superior maxilla extends to slightly
behind the anterior margin of the orbit. Upper surface of eye nearly close to profile. Preopercle,
posterior limb almost vertical, roughened, angle rounded and finely serrated, inferior limb hori-
zontal, entire, and little more than half the length of posterior limb. Sub- and interopercles with
a few very fine serratures at their approximating extremities. Opercle with two rather strong flat
spines, and ending in a membraneous point. Preorbital entire. Nostrils rather wide apart, pos-
terior the largest. Pseudobranchias present. Branchiostegal rays covered : gills three and a

half.

Teeth — Several rows of fine teeth in the intermaxillaries, with an external larger band of
curved ones. In the mandibular several rows of nearly equal sized vilbform ones, and four large
curved teeth external to them at the symphysis. On the front of the vomer is a transverse oval
patch of villiform ones, divided by a short interspace from a narrow band of the same description
which exists on the palatine bones. Pterygoid bones, and root of the tongue covered by rounded
teeth, which posteriorly become roughened and even pointed. Sharp villiform teeth on the pharyn-
geal bones.

Fins — Origins of pectoral and dorsal on a line, ventral slightly behind : anal arises opposite
commencement of soft dorsal. Spinous dorsal can be laid flat on the back, in a groove,
its base occupies nearly four-fifths of that of the entire fin. Dorsal spines rather strong,
shorter than the rays, the third the longest, the remainder nearly the same. Interspinous

* Br. Giint her affixed the name of " Catopra Malabarica" to a specimen of this fish which I had given
to the British Museum. In deference to the expressed opinion of that excellent ichthyologist, I adopted
his designation in my " Fishes of Cochin :" but its preorbital being entire, &c, I, at the suggestion of the
late Sir John Bichardson, forwarded a specimen to Br. Bleeker for his opinion, who pronounced it to be
undoubtedly a " Nandus" as at present constituted, but which will probably at a future date have to be
placed in a distinct, but nearly allied genus. Having been furnished by the Bev. H. Baker with four more
specimens from India, I have been enabled to obtain a skeleton, which fully confirms the views entertained
by Br. Bleeker. Should more species be discovered, I would suggest the generic term of Baranandus, differing
from the Nandus by its mouth being moderately protrusible, by its having two opercular spines, pseudo-
branchia?, &c.

PLATE VIII.

\

f H '• '

"

/'/'./.•, del.et .--.'////..

N \ \ ]> i S MA i. A B A H I CIT S

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 1 ;>, ]

membrane deeply notched, and extending slightly beyond the points of the spines. Central dorsal

rays the longest. Ventral spine moderately strong. Anal spines strong, second the strongest,
but not quite so long as third, they can be received into a groove the same as the dorsal Bpinefi ;
central rays the longest, as aro also those of the caudal.

Scales — Ctenoid, greatest diameter from above downwards, fchey cover body, opercles and
head, but there are none between or before the eyes, or on the preorbital ; some arc continued
over the soft portions of the dorsal, anal, and base of caudal.

Lateral line— Interrupted, at first in upper fourth of body, opposite fourth dorsal ray it ceases
on the twenty-first scale, and before the last portion of the soft dorsal it is continued along the
mesial line as far as, but not on to, the caudal fin.

Colours— Of a rifle green with purplish reflections : darker on the back than on the abdomen.
Fins greenish. Eyes yellowish green.

I am indebted to the Rev. H. Baker, junior, for six specimens of this fish from the Hill
ranges of Travancore.

Grows to four inches in length.

Habitat — Hill streams of Malabar.

Genus PRISTOLEPIS.

Pristolepis, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. 1848, p. 141.
Catopra, Bleeker, Borneo, iii. 1851, p. 65.

Branchiostegals, six. Body rather short, compressed. Preopercle and preorbitals serrated : opercle
with two flat spines. Mouth protractile. Oue dorsal with from thirteen to fifteen spines, anal with three.
Teeth villiform on jaws, vomer, palatine and pterygoid bones, also on the tongue. Scales ctenoid. Lateral
line interrupted.

* Pristolepis marginatus.

Pristolepis marginatus, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 141.

B. vi. D. if. P. 15. V. i. A. f ? f .

Length of head J of body, not including caudal fin. Height of body | its length.

Body broadly oval, compressed. Jaws nearly equal. Preopercle finely serrated. Opercle
with two flat spines.

Teeth— Villiform in both jaws, vomer, palate, and base of tongue, with a row of larger pointed
ones of unequal size in front of upper jaw.

Fins— Pectoral rather large, somewhat rounded: soft portions of dorsal and anal rounded,
much longer than the spinous. Caudal rounded.

Scales — Large, ctenoid, some extend over bases of the dorsal and caudal fins.

Lateral line — Interrupted, at first on third scale, subsequently central and on seventh row.

Colours — Sap green, palest beneath ; dorsal and anal fins with a streak of orano-p on the
interspinous membrane.

Grows to four inches and upwards.

Habitat — Hill streams of Malabar.

132 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fam. LABYRINTHICI, Cuvier.

Labyrinthibranchii, pt., Owen.
Osphromenoidei, Bleeker.

Genus AN ABAS, Cuvier.

Branehiostegals, six ; pseudohranchia? none. Body oblong, compressed : opereles and preorbital
serrated. A superbranchial organ, composed of thin lamina?, situated in a cavity above the gills, and rest-
ing upon the upper part of the third branchial arch. Eyes lateral. Mouth moderately cleft. Branchial
arches with toothed tubercles. Gill openings narrow, membranes join below isthmus. One dorsal fin,
the spinous portion more developed than the soft. Anal spines many, but less than those of the dorsal
fin, the soft rays nearly equal in extent. Ventrals thoracic. Teeth villiform in jaws, on the anterior
and posterior extremity of the vomer ; none on the palatine bones. Sc;des ctenoid, of moderate size.
Lateral line interrupted. Air bladder bifid, and produced posteriorly. Pyloric appendages few.

Anabas SCANDENS.

Perca scandens, Daldorf, Trans. Linn. Soc. iii. p. 62.
Cojus cobojius, Ham. Buck. pp. 98, 370, pi. 13, f. 33.
Anabas scandens, Guv. & Vol. vii. p. 333, pi. 193 & 205; Cantor, Catal. p. 82;

Jerdon, Madras Journ. xv. p. 144; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 375.
Anabas spinosus, Gray, 111. I. Z. ii. p. 189, f. 1.
Undee collee, Mai.

■•?

B. vi. D. y.^o8 P. 15. V. 1 A. £!£ . C. 16. L. 1. 27-32. L. tr. f . Vert. \%. Cffic. py. 3.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal i, of base of hard dorsal ^, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body above \, of hard dorsal 11r, of soft dorsal \, of hard anal fa, of
soft anal |, of ventral \ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ length of head, nearly ^ a diameter from end of snout, ] J to 2 diameters
apart.

Body oblong, and slightly compressed in its posterior third, but elevated opposite the dorsal.
Head rounded, cheeks and gullet inflated, whilst the head is wider than the body.

Lower jaw rather the longest. Upper jaw extending backwards to beneath the middle of the
orbit. Preorbital strong, and denticulated. Preopercle, with the posterior margin nearly straight,
and about twice as long as the inferior : angle with some strong teething. Opercle strongly
spined on its posterior margin, also on the angle of the sub-opercle, which is very moveable, and
hides the branchiostegal rays. The spines may be said to exist in three distinct patches on the
vertical limb of the opercle, and on the subopercle : the superior consists of four or five, with some
smaller ones which are above the centre of the opercle : the middle is a little beneath the centre
of the opercle, and has a large one above and some smaller ones below; whilst the inferior
patch is placed entirely on the subopercle, and has the greatest number of spines and rather the
longest, which are continued, but less strongly, along the lower margin of the subopercle. Nostrils
at anterior superior angle of the orbit, the anterior is slightly tubular. Suprascapular serrated.

Teeth — Villiform in jaws, with an external rather conical row. Also villiform on the front of
vomer, and on its posterior part. None on palate.

Fins — The dorsal commences over the posterior margin of the opercle, its spinous portion

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 133

lower than its soft, which is rather pointed. Pectoral rounded, arising opposite the third
dorsal spine. Ventral commences opposite the first quarter of tho pectoral. Anal of tho
same shape as the dorsal, and begins below the tenth dorsal spine. Caudal large and rounded.
Dorsal spines strong, occupying nearly five sixths of the base of the fin : the membrane deeply
notched : the third spine is higher than the two first, which are about even in length ; a groove
exists along the back, into which the spines may be laid. Anal spines and groove the same as in
the dorsal fin: its spinous portion occupies two thirds of the entire length of the fin.

Scales — Ctenoid, ei'ectile, longest diameter from above downwards, extending over the body,
and bases of soft dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, whilst the head is covered with rhomboidal or poly-
gonal scales : there are some also on the mandibula.

Five pores exist at the posterior extremity of the orbit, and pass in a line over the occiput :
others are placed below the snout, also along the lower margin of the preopercle, on its vertical
border, and on the mandibular.

Lateral line — Interrupted, for its first two thirds being on the sixth scale, and for its last third
on the eighth : it is not continued on to the caudal fin.

Colours — Rifle green becoming lighter on the abdomen : four dark, vertical, diffused bands
pass from the back to the abdomen. In the young fish a dark spot is generally present at the
base of the tail. Fins of a dark green, but in clear water they become reddish, and the body
more yellow. Eyes reddish hazel.

Habits — The cHmbing properties attributed to this fish in other portions of India and
Ceylon, are fully believed in by the inhabitants of Malabar. Certainly it is with difficulty that
they can be retained in a vivarium, as unless it is covered, or its summit upwards of a foot from
the water they invariably escape. They are able to progress along the ground in two ways,
either by lying on their sides, flapping their tails, and moving their pectoral fins : or else chiefly by
the aid of the latter fins, first one being advanced and then the other. They can erect their fins
and Hkewise their scales at pleasure, even down to those along the bases of the caudal fin. This
power of erection, especially as it also exists in the gill covers, would be a great assistance did
they employ the latter in climbing.

Its hollow superbranchial organ, with from two to six lamina? (the number of which depends
on the age of the specimen), with fringed valances, enables the climbing perch to retain water for
a considerable time, so that it can moisten its gills and live whilst out of its native element.
Hamilton Buchanan observes that he has known it to retain vitality under these conditions for
six days. That it travels from pond to pond when its means of subsistence fail is a well known
fact ; but that it buries itself in the mud as tanks dry up and remains there until the monsoon of
the next year again fills them with water, is a subject that reo^ures further research.

It should be remarked that the comparative size of many of the parts of the body varies with
the age of the fish, its state of health at the time captured, and the supply of food which it has
been obtaining. Likewise the number of scales along the lateral line differs considerably in various
specimens, as do also the number of its fin rays, and its colours.

Are common in most pieces of fresh water in Malabar, and esteemed very good eating by the
Natives, who invariably when catching them bite their heads, in order to destroy life. On one
occasion this practice led to a fatal result; the fish having slipped down the throat of the
fisherman, it could not be withdrawn owing to the erectile nature of the gill covers and scales, and
the man was suffocated before reaching the hospital.

Habitat — Fresh waters of India, Malaysia, and the Philippine Islands.

134 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Genus POLYACANTHUS, Guv. and Vol.

Branchiostegals, six : pscudobranchise none. Body oblong, compressed : opercles without spines :
sub- and interopercles and preorbital serrated. A superbranchial organ as in the Genus Anahas. Eyes
lateral. Mouth small, oblique, little protractile. Branchial arches with toothed tubercles. One dorsal
fin, the spinous portion much more developed than the soft. Anal spines numerous, and more developed
than its soft portion. Ventrals of one spine and five well developed rays, some of which are usually
elongated. Teeth villiform in both jaws. Scales ctenoid. Lateral line interrupted, partially or entirely
absent. Air bladder simple. Pyloric appendages few.

POLYACANTHUS CUPANUS.

Polyacanthus cupanus, Guv. & Vol. vii. p. 357 ; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 381.
Caringanah, and Wunnuttee, Mai.

B. vi. D. l%15. P. 10. V. l. A. 16fi8. C. 13. L. 1.30-32. L. tr. f

Length of head \, of pectoral T%, of caudal nearly \, of base of dorsal spines nearly \, of
base of soft dorsal ^s, of base of anal spines above \, of base of soft anal \ of the total length.
Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal ,'g, of soft dorsal \, of ventral J, of anal spines j\, of
anal rays ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter ^ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 2 diameters apart.

Body rather oblong, and compressed.

Mouth transverse ; lower jaw rather the longest : intermaxillaries slightly protrusible. Angle
and posterior half of the horizontal margin of the preopercle finely serrated. The opercle ending
in a fleshy point. Subopercle very finely serrated, also the posterior half of the interopercle. Pre-
orbital serrated in its external extremity. Openings of the nostrils wide, approximating, the
posterior being close to the anterior superior margin of the orbit, and the anterior close to the
edge of the snout.

Teeth — ln two or three rows of villiform ones in the upper jaw : in several opposite the
symphysis of the lower, and in two rows along either side.

Tins — The dorsal commences above the posterior third of the pectoral, and terminates
opposite the last spine of the anal, where the rays are elongated and the fin becomes pointed : the
ventral arises under the pectoral, its first ray is elongated into two filaments which reach to opposite
the eighth anal spine : the anal begins opposite the anterior third of the pectoral. The dorsal
spines increase in length to the last, and there exists a groove along the back for their reception
into which they can be laid flat : the last spine equals the distance between the posterior extremity
of the orbit and the posterior extremity of the opercle : the last rays are likewise longer than the
first, and extend to opposite the anterior third of the caudal fin. The anal is similar to the dorsal,
but continued further posteriorly, its rays are longer than its spines. The central caudal rays are
elongated.

Scales — Ctenoid, covering the body, head, and jaws, whilst some fine ones are also present
along the base of the dorsal and anal rays.

Numerous glandular openings exist on the head, one is present at the angle near the centre
of the lower margin of the preopercle, another about the centre of its vertical limb.

Lateral line — At first on the fifth row, then on the fourth to the fourteenth scale where it ceases.
Colours. — Deep rifle green with the prolonged ray of the ventral of a bright scarlet. Caudal
barred in Unes of spots, as is also the dorsal especially in its soft portion. A round black spot
exists at the base of the caudal. Byes hazel.

THE PISHES OF MALABAR 135

In one specimen of an inch in length and having one spine in the dorsal and one ray in the
anal less than in any of the others, the colours differ, being of a beautiful rose colour, and rather
dark brown along the back and base of the anal fin. Two deep black horizontal lines pass one
from above the orbit direct to the caudal, and a second from the angle of the mouth, through
the eye to the caudal. Head and cheeks spotted.

Grows to about three inches in length, and is eaten by the Natives. Is found in ditches and
frequently remains under stones in the water, in which situation it is readily captured by the
hand.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Malabar, and Coromandel.

Fam. ATHERINHLE.
Genus ATHEEINA, Artedi.

Branchiostegals, five or six : pseudobranchiae. Body subcylindrical and elongated. Eyes large, lateral.
Cleft of mouth rather deep. Upper jaw protractile. Snout obtuse. Two dorsals widely separated, the
spines of the first feeble : anal resembling the soft dorsal or slightly larger. Ventrals abdominal with one
spine and five rays. Teeth minute, those on palate sometimes indistinct. Scales cycloid, of moderate
size. Air bladder present. Pyloric appendages none.

Atheeina Foeskalii.
? Atheeina hepsetus, Forsh p. 69.

Atheeina Foeskalii, Blip. N. W. F., p. 139, t. 33, f. 1 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 103 ;
Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 397.

B. vi. D. 5 | ^. P. 17. V. l A.TgL¥. C. 15. L. 1. 40. L. tr. 6-7.

Length of head ±, of pectoral 1 of caudal J, of base of first dorsal TL of second dorsal jL, of
base of anal T\ of total length. Height of head |, of body ^, of first dorsal T\j, of second dorsal jL,
of ventral ^, of anal -^ of total length.

Eyes— Very large, nearly circular, the upper margin of the orbit forming part of the profile.
Diameter from J length of head to § , 1 of a diameter from end of snout, and 1 diameter apart.

Body elongated and compressed, tapering towards the caudal extremity : upper profile nearly
straight— excepting where the upper margin of the orbit causes a slight bulging— and beyond the
second dorsal, where it slightly sinks : the lower profile is more convex than the upper.

Snout short, mouth oblique, upper jaw slightly protractile. Maxilla extends to beneath the
anterior third of the orbit, Lower jaw very slightly the longest : along its lower margin there are the
openings of five or six pores, and two or three more on the preorbitals. Preopercle narrow and
rectangular, with the angle rounded, and horizontal limb nearly as long as the vertical. Opercle
ending in a soft point. Summit of head almost flat, on the vertex there is a raised triangular
space, which is continued in the form of a narrow elevation as far as the anterior third of the
interorbital space. Passing backwards from the posterior superior margin of the orbit, is a rather
deep longitudinal groove, which extends above the upper margin of the opercle and contains the
openings of two or three pores.

Teeth— Bands of finevilliform ones in both jaw i, on the vomer, palatine, and pterygoid bones.

136 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fins — Pectoral arises close to the posterior margin of the opercle, and above the central line
of the body : ventral opposite the posterior extremity of the pectoral ; first dorsal opposite the
posterior end of the ventral, and the breadth of one scale nearer the commencement of the anal
than to that of the ventral ; the second dorsal commences six scales behind the posterior extremity
of the first dorsal, and the anal arises rather in front of it. The spines of the first dorsal are fine,
with hair-like terminations, and the membrane is rather deeply cleft ; the first four are close
together, and the fifth rather further apart. Pectoral slightly pointed, with a rather broad base.
Second dorsal highest in frout, with the upper margin rather concave : anal of the same shape.
Caudal rather deeply lobed.

Scales — Cycloid, and large, vertical diameter the greatest. The lateral line in the third row
and in the centre of its course consists of two parallel tubes, above them is a semicircular notch
excavated from the posterior margin of the scales : both anteriorly and posteriorly it consists of
badly marked circular orifices.

Colours — Silvery, with the upper surface of the head and back of a pale sea green, and with
numerous fine points of black. A steel blue line, darkest above, extends along the third row of
scales and also the upper third of the fourth. Cheeks and opercles shining silvery : muzzle and
lips blackish. Fins diaphanous : margins of dorsal spines, and the rays of the pectoral and caudal
finely dotted with black. Iris silvery.

Very abundant in Malabar during the monsoon months, but a few are always present. It is
one of several genera which are known to the Europeans as " Whitebait," like which it is dressed,
especially for the breakfast table. It rarely exceeds four inches in length.
Habitat — Red Sea, Malabar, and Malaysia.

Fam. MUGILID^E.
Genus MUGIL, Artedi

Branchiostegals, from five to six : pseudobranchiae. Body more or less oblong and compressed. Eyes
lateral. Cleft of mouth transverse and laterally short. Anterior margin of mandible sharp. Teeth in
jaws feeble or absent. Two dorsals widely separated ; the first with four spines, the second longer but not
so long as the anal, which is opposite it. Ventral abdominal, with one spine and five rays suspended from
an elongated coracoid bone. Grill openings wide. Scales cycloid, and of moderate size. Lateral line absent.
A portion of stomach very muscular. Vertebra? twenty-four.

a. With adipose eyelids.
MUGIL CUNNESIUS.

Cunnesee, Russell, pi. 181.

Mugil cunnesius, Guv. & Val. xi. p. 114; Cantor, Catal. p. 100 ; Giinther, Catal. iii.

p. 434.
Mahlah, Mai.

B. v. D. 4. | J. P. 17. V. i A. f. C. 14. L. 1. 41-43. L. tr. 13-15.

Length of head T3?, of pectoral j25, of caudal ^, of base of first dorsal y^, of base of second

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 137

dorsal -jLj, of base of anal ^ of total length. Height of head fc, of body fa, of first dorsal ,',,, of

second dorsal ,',, ofventra] ,--,, of anal ,', of the total length.

Eyes — With adipose lids covering I of each side, with vertical elliptical openings. Horizontal
diameter of eye | , vertical diameter J of length of head, | of a diameter from end of snout3 rather
more than 2 diameters apart.

The upper profile is more convex than the lower. The upper surface of the lead rather
compressed and slightly convex from side to side. The width of the body equals two thirds its
height.

Mouth small, lower jaw slightly the shortest, angle situated opposite the anterior opening of
the nostril. A slight tubercle at the centre of the lower jaw, fitting into a notch in the centre of
the upper. Preorbital truncated externally, and thin interiorly, forming a long triangle, the
inferior margin is nearly straight, and neither serrated or notched but with a slight roughno-s
along the posterior two thirds of its lower edge : its posterior margin has four or five very hue
serraturcs, and does not quite cover the maxilla, the angle of which is perceptible opposite the
anterior margin of the orbit. Intermandibular space tongue-shaped. Anterior nostril close to the
posterior margin of the preorbital, and some distance from the posterior nostril, which is opposite
the anterior superior angle of the orbit. There is a large gland opposite the centre of the vertical
border of the preopercle, another just above its angle, and three above its horizontal border.
Several other wide glandular openings exist on various parts of the head, and many fine longitudinal
grooves.

Teeth — None apparent : on each side of the vomer is a transverse tubercle.

Fins — Pectoral obtuse, almost entirely situated in the upper half of the body, the lowest ray
equal to a fourth the length of the highest, the fin extends to opposite the eleventh scale of the
lateral line. Ventral commences opposite the last fourth of the pectoral, its spine is weak, and
the first ray sometimes prolonged. First dorsal begins midway between the snout and the base
of the external ray of the caudal, and about opposite the tip of the ventral spine, and the twelfth
scale of the lateral line : it is highest in front : the three anterior rays arise close together, the
fourth is distant rather above half its height from the third and is more than a third shorter than
the first. Second dorsal commences midway between the origin of the first dorsal and the base
of the external caudal ray, opposite the twenty-fifth scale of the lateral line : its anterior margin
is the highest, its superior border concave, and its last ray double and elongated : its spine is half
the height of the first ray. Anal arises opposite the second dorsal, its spines are weak, the first
half as long as the second, which is nearly a third less than the third, and the first ray is twice its
length : the form of the fin is like that of the second dorsal. Caudal emarginate.

Scales — Not very regular in size, they cover the body, head, cheeks, and lower jaw. Some
fine ones exist in the adult, on the rays of the pectoral, ventral, and caudal fins, and on the
anterior margins of the second dorsal and anal. Each scale has a smooth edge equal to about a
fifth of its exposed portion ; along the mesial line there is a narrow furrow, generally running
longitudinally, and extending for four fifths of the exposed part. Below the pectoral fin these
lines run very irregularly (except in the two or three lowest rows where they are longitudinal)
some being vertical and some oblique. There is a long scale at the base of the first dorsal, also
a large axillary one, and another elongated one at the base of the ventral.

Colours — Bluish silvery-green on the back and sides, becoming silvery white on the abdomen.
Each row of scales marked by a broad parallel longitudinal line, equal to a third of its width, aud
darkest at their bases. Cheeks and opercles shining silvery, the latter with steel blue reflections,

T

138 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

most apparent on the upper portion. Pectoral fin with a light base, dark at its outer third owing
to the membrane being minutely dotted with black. Ventral and anal white, the latter greyish
near its anterior extremity, but with a white margin. Both dorsals appear grey, owing to their
being minutely dotted with black points, the outer margin of the second dorsal is lighter than its
basal half. Caudal light coloured, with the external and posterior margins grey, due to the
presence of minute black dots.

It is from this species of mullet that the fine fish roes are obtained for which Cochin is so
famous. The roe is removed as soon as the fish is captured, and is then dried in the sun. The
season commences about the middle of October, or beginning of November, when these fish swarm
into the river to deposit their spawn. By the month of February mullets known as Cunnumboo,
Mai. begin to be scarce, and by April they are almost unprocurable.

This species is excellent eating when not more than a foot and a half in length, for the larger
ones are dry. It grows to three feet in length.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India and of Malaysia.

* MUGIL SUBVIRIDIS.

Mugil subviridis, Cuv. & Vol. xi. p. 115; GuntJier, Catal. iii. p. 423.

D. 4 | l. A.f. L. 1. 30. L. tr. 11.

Length of head T3g of the total length, and pectoral rather shorter than the length of the head,
the snout not included. Height of body •§ of the total length.

Eyes — With adipose lids well developed : the distance between the eyes is equal to f of the
length of the head.

Snout broad, obtuse, depressed, and as long as the eye ; its anterior margin is formed by the
upper lips which are moderately thick. The maxilla is bent downwards behind and below the
angle of the mouth, where its extremity is visible. A very obtuse angle made by the anterior
margins of the mandibular bones. Cleft of mouth at least thrice as broad as deep. The interman-
dibular space is rather short and cuneiform. Preorbital angularly bent, its extremity subtruncated
and denticulated.

Fins — Eighteen scales between the snout and the origin of the first dorsal fin. Pectoral
is inserted above the middle of the height of the body, it has a very obtuse and rudimentary scale
in its axil (absent according to Dr. Giinther) and extends to the seventh horizontal row of scales.
The eleventh and twentieth scales of the lateral line correspond to the origins of the dorsal fins.
Nearly the whole of the anterior half of the anal is before the second dorsal. Caudal emarginate.

Scales — Extend over body, cheeks, lower jaw, summit of head, and the soft dorsal and anal
fins.

Colours — Back greyish green : sides silvery, shot with golden : caudal stained with black.

Grows to eight inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India.

MUGIL SUNDANENSIS.

Mugil SUNDANENSIS, Sleeker, Sumatra, ii. p. 265; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 425.

B. v. D. 4 | l. P. 15. V. 1 A. |. L. 1. L. tr. 9.

Length of head \, of pectoral ), of caudal T2T, of base of first dorsal TVy, of base of second

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 139

dorsal tVj of ba8e of anal As l,f t"tal 1,,".-,n- Height of head ,';, of body $, of firs! dorsal -, of
second dorsal f7, of ventral -^v of anal ,'-'7 of total length.

Eyes — Slightly wider than high, and with narrow anterior and posterior adipose lids.
Diameter a little more than \ the length of head, f of a diameter from the end of snout, and \\

diameters apart.

Body comparatively short. Upper and lower line of profile equally convex. Head slightly
depressed. Snout rather obtuse.

Mouth wide, having at the symphysis of the mandibula a tubercle which is received into a
notch in the intermaxillary. Preorbital with a well-marked notch anteriorly. Extremity of
maxilla uncovered and apparent below the angle of the mouth. Upper lip rather thick. Pre-
opercle with three wide glands opening along its vertical margin, one opposite the lower margin
of the orbit, another just above the angle, and a third between the other two : along its horizontal
limb there are three more, one at the angle just before and below the lowest of the vertical ones,
another at its anterior extremity, and a central one. On the upper line of the opercles there are
three more, and an oblique line of three rather superior to them. On the summit of the head there
are some others.

Teeth — Some exceedingly fine ones in both jaws.

Yms, Pectoral extends to the eighth scale on the lateral line. First dorsal situated opposite

the tenth scale of the lateral line : second dorsal opposite the nineteenth scale and the centre
of the anal, which is opposite the seventeenth scale. Pectoral rather pointed. The anterior
three spines of the dorsal strong, the first the highest and strongest, the fourth weak. Upper
border of second dorsal concave. Ventral spine strong, equal in length to the third spine of the
dorsal. Anal arises in front of the second dorsal, and has a concave inferior edge. Caudal emar-
ginate in its posterior third.

gcales With longitudinal shallow grooves, which below the pectoral are irregular in their

direction : they extend over the body and head, and between the rays of the pectoral, second
dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. An elongated scale at the base of the first dorsal, and another
small one at that of the ventral.

Colours Greyish, darkest on the back, and silvery white towards the abdomen : opercles

tinged with a golden colour. Each scale darkest at the margin, and with a darkish grey line
alono- its centre, forming longitudinal stripes. All the fins minutely spotted with black, giving
them a greyish appearance. Caudal and pectoral the darkest, their edges being almost black,
especially those of the caudal.

This does not appear to be a very common mullet in Malabar. Still it is occasionally taken
with the others, but is- not often seen more than five or six inches in length.
Habitat — Seas of Malabar and Malaysia.

MUGIL ENGELI.

Mugil engeli, Bleeker, Nat. Tijds. Ned. Ind. xvi. p. 277; Gunther, Catal. iii: p. 430.

B. v. D. 4 | I P. 15. V. J. A. f. C. 14. L. 1. 33-34. L. tr. 10-11.

Length of head £, of pectoral 1, of caudal 1, of base of first dorsal Js, of base of second
dorsal Jq, of base of anal 1 of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal fo of
second dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal j of total length.

t 2

140 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Eyes — With adipose anterior, and posterior lids. Diameter rather more than ^ length of
head, \ a diameter from end of snout, 1 \ diameters apart.

Body with the superior and inferior j)rofiles equally convex, snout rather rounded. Head
slightly compressed.

Mouth transverse. Interinaxillaries very protractile, making an obtuse angle and having an
cmargination to receive the notch on the symphysis of the mandibular. Maxilla quite hidden by
the preorbital, which is scaled, emarginate, and indistinctly serrated : preopercle with three glands
on its vertical margin, the superior and largest being opposite the lower margin of the orbit, and
the inferior and smallest opposite the angle : there are also three small ones along its horizontal
margin. Several glands exist on the summit of the head. Intermandibular space lanceolate.

Teeth — None visible in the specimens obtained at Cochin.

Fins — Pectoral pointed and reaching to the tenth scale on the lateral line. Ventral large, and
arising under the middle of the pectoral, its spine strong and rather longer than the third spine of
the dorsal. First dorsal arises beyond the eighth scale on the lateral line, and opposite the end
of the pectoral ; its spines are moderately slender, the first the longest and strongest, and the last
weak and half the length of the first. The second dorsal arises midway between the commence-
ment of the first dorsal and the base of the upper caudal ray, opposite the fifth ray of the anal, and
on the nineteenth scale of the lateral line : its upper margin is concave. Anal arises in front of the
second dorsal. Caudal lunated in its posterior fourth.

Scales — Over the body and head, none on the fins excepting at the base of the caudal. They
have fine longitudinal grooves, excepting below the pectoral, where they are irregular in their course.
An elongated scale at the bases of the dorsal, pectoral, and anal fins.

Colours — Silvery, with a slight bronzed golden tint. Upper surface of the preopercle bright
golden. Cheeks with a slightly golden tint. Base of pectoral jet black at its upper margin, the
colour fading after death ; posteriorly it is of a deep brown. Fins greyish, excepting the ventral
which is colourless. Upper margin of his bright golden.

Grows in Malabar to about nine inches in length, and is employed as food by the Natives.

Habitat — Malabar and the Seas of Malaysia.

Mugil poicilus. Plate IX.
Mugil poicilus, Day, Proceed. Zool. Society, 1805, p. 33.

B. v. D. 4 | \. P. 15. V. \. A. f. C. 14. L. 1. 32. L. tr. 10.

Length of head about A, of pectoral A, of caudal 1, of base of second dorsal y1^, of base of anal
j1! of total length. Height of head \, of body A, of first dorsal \, of second dorsal j1^, of ventral A ,
of anal T\j of total length.

Eyes — An adipose membrane extends over about one third of either side in the adult fish,
in the young the anterior curtain is broader than the posterior one. Diameter f- of length of
head, £ of a diameter apart, 1J diameters from end of snout.

There is not much rise from the snout to the first dorsal. Lower jaw slightly the shortest,
curved a little upwards, and having a notch in the centre of its extremity. Upper lip broad.
Upper jaw considerably protractile. The superior maxilla is bent downwards below and behind
angle of mouth, where its extremity is visible. Preorbital angularly bent, with a rounded and
finely serrated margin. Nostrils rather wide apart, the posterior the largest, and nearer the orbit
than it is to the anterior one. Interorbital space nearly flat. Snout broad, somewhat pointed in

PLATE IX

v

■ :

/.,-/ sculp.

M r r, i i, l' o i < i i. r

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 141

the centre. Cleft of mouth rather more than twice as broad as deep. The free intennandibular
space tongue-shaped, and moderately long.

Teeth— A fine row in the upper jaw, more apparent in the young than the adult.

Fins— Pectoral fin a little above the central line of the body, and extruding fco the eighth
scale. No elongated scale at its base. Twenty scales from snout to origin of first dorsal, which
commences nearer the snout than the caudal fin, and above the eighth scale on tho lateral lint ,
Eight scales between the two dorsal fins. First dorsal spines strong, the first the strong,-*! and
equal in length to the second : when laid flat they scarcely extend more than half way from then-
origin to the base of the second dorsal. Second dorsal, pectoral, anal, and caudal with some fine
scales at their bases. Caudal emarginate. Pectoral rounded. Ventral with a pointed scale at its
origin.

Scales— Bather irregular in size, highest from above downwards, each scale on the body and
bases of the fins in the adult fish with a round or irregular cavity or gland in its centre of a deep black
colour ; in the young fish these are not so apparent, and until they are about three inches in leno-th
the black central spot is hardly discernible. The scales on the head vary much in shape, the pos-
terior ones being irregularly quadrilateral, and the central ones between the orbits nearly round,
but with deeply emarginated sides.

Colours— Greyish shot with silver, lightest on the sides and abdomen, each scale with a deep
black central spot ; fins stained with grey : pinkish golden about the cheeks.

Common in Cochin. Grows to eight inches in length ; is good eating.

Habitat — Malabar.

MUGIL CUNNUMBOO.
B. v. D. 4 |f P. 15. V. 1. A. T%. C. 15. L. 1. 34. L. tr. 11.

Length of head J, of pectoral \, of caudal ^g, of base of first dorsal TL, of base of second
dorsal yL, of base of anal ^ of total length. Height of head ^, of body \, of first dorsal \, of
second dorsal ^, of ventral £, of anal \ of the total length.

Eyes — With an adipose lid on either side A their width. Horizontal diameter f, vertical
diameter T2ff of the length of head : 1 a diameter from the end of snout : 2 diameters apart.

Body rather broad, the upper profile more convex than that of the abdomen, which is nearly
straight. Head compressed so that a distinct ridge exists from the posterior superior angle of the
orbit to the upper edge of the base of the pectoral fin.

Mouth rather pointed, the centre of the intermaxillaries forming
superiorly a rather broad knob, which inferiorly is notched in the centre
to receive the tubercle of the lower jaw. Upper jaw longest, and the
depth of the mouth one half of its width. Mandibulas broad and
flattened, the two meeting at an angle where there is a deep emargi-
nation, free space tongue-shaped. Preorbital triangular, strongly
bent at its external end, the extremity of which is rounded and ser-
rated, a few more serratures likewise exist along its inferior margin
which is notched near its extremity. Lower end of maxilla not
covered. Opercle ending superiorly in a fine point just above the
lateral ridge. Interorbital space flat. Posterior nostril broad, oval :
the anterior the smallest and circular, both situated rather above the
level of the orbit. Preopercle with a broad glandular opening opposite the lower third of the orbit,
a second at its angle directed backwards and downwards, whilst there is a third intermediate :

142 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

another is present on the horizontal limb close to the angle, a second small one at its anterior extre-
mity, and a third intermediate. The rest of the glands on the head are as in the M. cunnesius,
C. tf V.

No teeth apparent.

Fins— Pectoral arises in the centre of the height of the body, and extends to the eighth scale
on the lateral line, it is rather pointed, and has a very small elongated scale at its axil. The first
dorsal arises on the twenty-first scale from the snout, and on the eighth of the lateral line, its
second spine is midway between the snout and the base of the caudal fin : spines strong, especially
the first, the length of which equals the distance from the posterior margin of the orbit to the
posterior margin of the opercle : the second spine is slightly and the last half shorter than the
first : the fin has an elongated scale at its base extending to just beyond its last spine, whilst the
groove for its reception is very shallow. The ventral arises about midway between the base of the
pectoral and the base of the first dorsal, and on the ninth scale of the lateral fine, it has a small
elongated scale at its base. The second dorsal arises opposite the twentieth scale of the lateral
line and the third soft ray of the anal : its spine is not quite half the length of the first ray : fin
rhomboidal, its anterior margin the highest, its upper border straight, and its last ray double, and
scarcely a fourth as long as the first : base of rays almost entirely hidden by scales. Anal with
the first spine minute and short, and the second nearly as long as the third, which is more than
half as long as the first ray : the fin is covered with scales excepting on its extremity, its last ray
is double, and a third the height of the first. Caudal lunated in its posterior third.

gcales — Rather irregular in size, covering the posterior three fourths of the caudal, and most
of the soft dorsal, anal, pectoral and ventral fins : most of the scales have fine longitudinal grooves,
but those under the base of the pectoral pass downwards and backwards. The scales on the
summit of the head are more regular than in most of the other species of mullets found in Malabar.

Colours — Silvery, upper surface of body of a greenish blue, darkest on the back, and becoming
whitish on the abdomen, the edges of the scales being of the lightest tint. The whole fish is
longitudinally striped with grey along the centre of each scale. Cheeks tinged with golden : a
dark spot over the summit of the base of the pectoral fin. Dorsal greyish, very minutely dotted
with dark grey. Second dorsal whitish with a dark grey tip, being minutely dotted with fine points
of a darker tint. Caudal with a white base, and its posterior third grey, dotted with spots of the
same colour. Ventral and anal white, pectoral with a dark margin to its upper rays.

Grows to two feet in length, and is excellent eating.

Habitat — Malabar.

MUGIL PAESIA.

Mugtl paesia, Earn. Buck. pp. 215, 380, pi. 17, £71; Cuv. & Vol. xi. p. 144;
Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 426.

B. vi. D. 4 | l P. 14. V. l. A. g$. C. 14. L. 1. 35. L. tr. 12.

Length of head \, of pectoral T2r, of base of second dorsal ^T, of base of anal j\, of caudal *
of the total length. Height of head T?r, of body f , of first dorsal ^, of second dorsal ^, of
anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — With adipose lids on their posterior fourth. Diameter ^ of length of head, | diameter
from end of snout, 1^ diameters apart.

Snout short, broad, depressed, with its anterior margin acute : lips thin : the maxilla bent
behind the angle of the mouth and its extremity not covered by the preorbital. The anterior

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 143

margin of tho mandibula forms a rather obtuse angle, and is slightly cmarginate at the symphysis.
The cleft of the mouth is more than twice as wide as deep. Interorbital space slightly convex.
Preorbital distinctly denticulated. Free space between mandibular lanceolate.

Teeth — In a specimen 3^ inches in length, a row of fine teeth in the upper jaw is very
distinctly visible.

Fins — Tho pectoral arises just below the middle of the height of the body, is rounded and
extends to the eighth scale. The first dorsal is triangular, its spines moderately strong and it
arises opposite the tenth scale of the lateral line. The second dorsal commences opposite tin
twenty-first scale, and above the fifth ray of the anal. Caudal cmarginate.

Scales — Over body, head, base of soft dorsal, and anal rays.

Colours — Silvery, with a greenish tinge along the back and golden reflections on the head.

Grows to about four inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, entering rivers.

B. Without adipose eyelids.
MUGIL SUPPOSITUS.

Mugil suppositus, Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 437.
Mugil borbonicus, Cantor, Catal. p. 101.

B. v. D. 4 | i-. P. 15. V. i. A. §. C. 14. L. 1. 39. L. tr. 14.

Length of head \, of pectoral ^, of caudal J, of base of first dorsal y1^, of base of second
dorsal y1^, of base of anal yy of total length. Height of head y25, of body \, of first dorsal T\,,
of second dorsal -^, of ventral ^, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Without adipose lids ; horizontal diameter T , and vertical diameter f of length of head,
rather more than ^ diameter from end of snout, 1J diameters apart.

Body equally convex on its superior and inferior profiles. Head rather broad, and a slight
ridge from the upper surface of orbit to the base of the pectoral, the interorbital space rather
convex.

Mouth transverse, its depth a fourth of its width. Upper jaw more rounded than angular^
with a notch in its centre to receive the knob of the lower jaw, which is elevated in its centre,
and concave along either side. The free space is rather narrow and lanceolate in shape. Preorbital
irregularly triangular, with the base in front : it is convex as far as its bent angle, whilst its
superior margin has a hollow rounded notch, and its inferior angle is bent down, rounded, and
denticulated ; an oblique line of three open glands exists from between the notch to its external
angle. Preopercle, with a deep glandular notch opposite the lower margin of the orbit, and two
approximating just above its angle ; on its horizontal margin there is one at its angle directed
backwards, and one at its posterior extremity, and a third intermediate : there are also two or
three smaller and more circular ones, three along the lower edge of the mandibula, and two larger
ones along its inferior limb. Opercle with a notch on its posterior margin, close to the ridge.
Glands on the upper surface disposed as in the M. cunnesius.

Teeth — None apparent in the lips : but on either side of the vomer is a strong, rounded,
smooth, transverse ridge.

Fins — The upper margin of the pectoral is in the upper third of the body, and it has an elon-
gated scale at its axil : the fin is pointed, and extends to the tenth scale on the lateral line. First

144 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

dorsal spines not strong : the membrane rather emarginate ; the fin commences on the twenty-first
scale from the snout, and on the twelfth of the lateral line : its second spine is midway between
the snout and base of caudal fin : its first three spines are of about equal length, the third is weak,
and rather more than half as long as the first : an elongated scale extends the whole length of the
base of the fin. Ventral spine moderately strong, and nearly as long as the third of the dorsal ones.
The second dorsal commences opposite the second ray of the anal, and the twenty-fourth scale of
the lateral line. The distance between the two dorsals, equals the anterior margin of the second
dorsal, which is twice as high as the posterior ; upper edge of fin concave, its last ray double and
rather prolonged. Anal slightly in advance of the second dorsal, the third spine rather more than
twice as long as the first ray, the last ray being double and longer than the preceding one : its
inferior margin concave. Caudal lunated in its posterior fourth.

Scales — Over body and head : some fine ones on the base of the caudal, and between the
ventral rays ; a few along the bases of the second dorsal, anal, and between their first few rays.
A fine longitudinal groove on all those except below the pectoral fin, which have vertical grooves,
excepting the three rows in the centre of the abdominal line. The scales on the opercles and
subopercles are very thin.

Colours — Silvery, with the summit of head and back bluish green : the fin membrane of the
first and second dorsals, caudal, anal, and pectoral pale yellow, dotted with black. The first spine
of the dorsal blackish ; the spine and the upper half of the first ray of the second dorsal black,
and also the margins of the caudal. A black mark in the axil, ventrals white. Iris silvery round
the pupil, but dark green towards the orbit.

Not rare at Cochin. Grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar and Malaysia.

Mugil Waigiensis.

Mugil Waigiensis, Quoy & Gaim. Voy. Fre)Tc. Poissons, p. 337, pi. 59, f. 2 ; Giinther,

Catal. iii. p. 435.
Mugil maceolepidotus, Cuv. & Vol. xi. p. 134 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 95.
Fresh water mullet.

B. vi. D.4||, P. 17. V. i. A. f. C. 15. L. 1. 26-27. L. tr. 8-9.

Length of head \, of pectoral ^T, of caudal jT> of base of first dorsal ^, of base of second
dorsal ^, of base of anal ^ of total length. Height of head ^, of body \, of first dorsal ^, of
second dorsal \, of ventral ^, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Without adipose membranes, horizontal diameter |-, vertical diameter T-,- of the
length of head, 1^ diameters from end of snout, and 2 diameters apart.

General appearance short and stout. The line of the profile from the snout along the back
being almost straight. Head rather compressed. The width of the body is more than the height
of the head.

Mouth broad, lips thin, intermaxillaries wide, meeting superiorly at an angle, slightly notched
in the centre to receive the knob of the symphysis of the mandibular. Maxilla thin, rounded, and
angular, apparent under the preorbital. Preorbital irregularly pyramidal, its base being towards
the orbit, ending in a point anteriorly : lower margin denticulated, its anterior two-thirds convex,
and separated by a deep notch from its external angle which is rounded and denticulated. The

THE FISHES OK MALABAR. I 15

inferior angle of the maxilla is perceptible below tin- angle of the mouth, [nterorbital
nearly flat. Intcrmandibular space broadly lanceolate. On the vertical margin of the preop
exist three large wide glandular orifices, and a fourth just below the angle. Superiorly from the
centre of the orbit there is aline of four of these glands which passes along the upper margin of the
opercles, two others go towards the occiput, across which is a concave lino of four more. I '< is -
terior nostril large and close to the anterior superior margin of the orbit, the anterior one round
and close to the margin of the preorbital.

Teeth — Not to be seen in a specimen twelve inches long.

Fins — Pectoral broad, obtuse and situated rather nearer the back than the abdomen, it
extends to the eighth scale of the lateral line. Ventral arises under the posterior third of pectoral,
its spine strong. Spines of first dorsal strong, the fin is situated nearer to the snout than it is to
the base of the caudal : it arises opposite the end of the pectoral on the eighth row of scales of the
lateral line, and a deep groove along the back exists for its reception. The second dorsal com-
mences opposite the sixteenth scale of the lateral line, and nearer to the caudal than to the anterior
margin of the first dorsal ; the fin is highest in front and rounded posteriorly. The anal arises
opposite to the second dorsal and corresponds with it. Caudal slightly omarginate.

Scales — Cover body, head, and bases of soft portions of dorsal, anal, and caudal fins ; they
are large, and the transverse series on the opercle consists of only three rows. On the body they
are twice as liigh as broad, and each has one or two fine longitudinal grooves along its centre ;
"below the pectoral fin some of these grooves run downwards and outwards. An elongated scale is
present at the bases of the pectoral and ventral, and also along the side of the dorsal fin.

Colours — Greyish, each scale darkest at its margin, and with a dark raised line along the
centre. Fins dark greyish, edged with white. Pectoral nearly black. Eye silvery and greyish
above.

Grows to twelve inches in length. Captured during the S. W. monsoon, when it ascends
high up the rivers, and is considered by the Natives to be a " fresh water mullet." It is good
eating.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia and China to Australia and Polynesia.

* MUGIL CARINATUS.

Mugil CARINATUS, Guv. & Veil xi. p. 148.

D.4|i A.f.

Mouth much depressed : preorbital sloping, and making a very projecting angle on each side
of the mouth. The maxilla is visible at the angle of the mouth.

Eyes — It is not stated whether adipose lids are present or absent.
Fins — Small and scaled ; the caudal is slightly emarginate.
Colours — Greenish on the back, silvery on the rest of the body.
Grows to three and a half inches in length.
Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Seychelles, and the island of Guam.

1J0 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fam. OPHIOCEPHALIDiE, Gunther.
Labyrinthici, pt., Cuvier.
Labyrinthibkanchh, pt., Owen.
Ophiocephaloidei, Bleeker.

Genus OPHIOCEPHALUS, Block.

Branchiostegals five : pseudobranehia? none. Body elongated, subcylindrical anteriorly. Head
depressed, covered superiorly with shield like scales. Cleft of mouth lateral, wide. Gill opening wide, the
membrane of both sides connected below the isthmus. A labyrinthiform cavity accessory to the gill cavity
for the purpose of retaining water. Tilliform teeth on jaws, vomer, and palate, sometimes with larger ones
intermixed. One long spineless dorsal and anal fin. Ventral thoracic, six rays, the outer one not
branched but articulated at its extremity. Scales usually large. Lateral Hue abruptly curved or sub-
interrupted. An air bladder. Pyloric appendages two.

Ophiocephalus maeulius.
Sowarah, fiussell, pi. 163.
Ophiocephalus maeulius, Ham. Buck. pp. 65, 367, pi. 17, f. 19 ; Guv. & Val. vii.

p. 432 ; Jerdon, Madras Jour. xv. 1848, p. 146 ; Gunther, Catal. iii. p. 478.
Ophiocephalus grandinosus, Guv. & Val. vii. p. 434, pi. 203.
Ophiocephalus leucopunctatus, SyJces, Trans. Zool. Soc. ii. p. 352, pi. 60, f. 3.
? Ophiocephalus pseudomaeulius, Gunther, Catal. iii. p. 478 (? young).
Choaree verarl, and Cooravoo, Mai.

B. v. D. 49-55. P. 18. V. 6. A. 31-36. C. 14. L. 1. 59-64. L. tr. %"§.

Length of head \, of caudal ^, of base of dorsal fa, of base of anal J of total length.
Height of head fa, of body ], of dorsal fin in front portion ^, in posterior portion fa, of anal fin
in front portion fa, in posterior portion fa, of ventral j1^ of total length.

Eyes — Situated laterally, but a small portion on upper surface of the head, and they look upwards
and outwards. Diameter |- length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, nearly 2 diameters apart.

Head depressed and widest opposite the opercles, where it equals the height of the body.
Body elongated with rather compressed sides. Cheeks slightly bulging. Cleft of mouth wide.
Upper jaw rather protrusible. Maxilla extends half the length of the orbit behind its posterior
margin. Between the orbit and the angle of the preopercle are a series of from ten to eleven
very irregular scales. Opercle terminating in a bluntish point, and having about five transverse
series of scales. Lower jaw flat below, with a knob at the symphysis. Posterior nostril just in
advance of, and inferior to the orbit.

Teeth — Numerous and villiform in jaws, vomer, and palate. In lower jaw they are most
numerous in the centre, whilst along each ramus there exists a single row of larger teeth posterior
to the villiform ones.

Fins — Dorsal commences over the pectoral, and the ventral below its anterior third. Pectoral
does not quite extend to opposite the commencement of the anal, which arises under about the
seventeenth dorsal ray. There is a very short portion of the tail finless between the termination
of the vertical fins and the commencement of the caudal, but it is rather longer below than above.
Dorsal fin lowest in front, its extremity being twice the height of its anterior portion, the same
also obtains in the anal. Pectoral and caudal rounded.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

1 17

Scales— Cover body, operoles, and the summit of the head. Between the orbits and I
posterior margin of the preopercles is a large irregularly quadrangular Bcale, with a semicircular
one posterior to it ; and anteriorly from its outer third a very irregularly shaped scale enlarging

exteriorly; the whole of the scales on the head arc of very irregular shapes, being lineated with
roughened tubercular lines, and having numerous glandular openings.

Lateral line— In agroove along each side, it first passes along aboul sixteen rows, then bends
downwards along two rows, and from thence passes straight to the centre of the caudal, but ..,
this deflection the scales alter so much that the second portion of the lateral Hue is only one scale
below where the upper portion would have been had its course been unchanged. The rows hoM -
ever are irregular, and not the same in all the specimens examined.

Colours— These vary with the waters in which it is captured. Back greenish grey, passing
downwards in five or six digitations below the lateral line. Abdomen (when from clear and rather
shallow streams) of a bright orange, with some dusky markings at the bases of the scales. On 1 1 le
posterior third of the body, of the dorsal and anal fins, and on the whole of the caudal are some
fine pearly white spots. Dorsal, caudal, anal and pectoral grey : ventral orange.

In some specimens, especially in the young, the dorsal fin is barred, and there is an ocellus at
its extremity : the same also sometimes exists on the root of the caudal. In the very young an
orange stripe runs from the eye to the caudal fin, whilst the dorsal fin has pale stripes directed

backwards.

This is considered the best of the genus for the table, because as it resides in streams it rarely

has the muddy flavour of the 0. striatus.
It grows to about two feet in length.
Habitat — Rivers of India, Ceylon and China.

Ophiocephalus diplogeamme, Plate X.

Ophiocephalus diplogeamme, Dmj, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 36.

B. v. D. 43. P. 15. V. 6. A. 27. C. 15. L. 1. 84. L. tr. r|;^.

Length of head about f , of pectoral fa, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal }, of base of
caudal f of total length. Height of body J> of head fa of dorsal fa of ventral fa, of anal ^ of

total length.

Eyes— Diameter T\ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, nearly 1J diameters apart.

Body anteriorly subcylindrical, head depressed above, and laterally : orbit close to profile.

Cleft of mouth wide, the maxilla extends to below the posterior third of orbit : lower jaw the
longest. Thirteen rows of scales between orbit and angle of preopercle. Interorbital space flat,
covered with six rows of irregularly rounded scales, having raised margins. Nostrils rather wide
apart, the superior the largest. A spinous process on either side of the occipital space. The
labyrinthiform cavity above the gills large.

Teeth— Several rows of sharp villiform teeth in lower jaw, with some larger ones internal to
them. Some bands of sharp teeth in upper jaw, but without larger ones. The same on vomer
and palate, interspersed posteriorly with larger ones.

Colours— Back grey, sides scarlet, abdomen white. A black band passes through the eye
direct to the upper half of caudal, a second from the angle of the mouth to the lower half of
caudal. Dorsal grey. Caudal scarlet, with two black horizontal stripes. Ventral and anal yell (Ir-
ish, with dark grey bases. Pectoral yellowish.

u 2

148 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

A single specimen was captured at the mouth of the Cochin river, it was nearly four inches
long. Its small scales and two spines might probably constitute this a sub-genus.
Habitat — Malabar.

Ophiocephalus striatus.

Ophiocephalus striatus, Block, t. 359 ; Cuv. & FaZ.vii.p. 417, pi. 202, 20G ; Cantor,
Catal. p. 92 ; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 14G ; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 474.

Muttah, Russell, pi. 162.

Ophiocephalus wrahl, Ham. Buck pp. 60, 367, pi. 31, f. 17 ; McClelland, Calcutta
Journal of Natural History, ii. p. 575.

Ophiocephalus chena, Ham. Buck. pp. 62, 367.

? Ophiocephalus planiceps, Cuv. & Vcd. vli. p. 424.

Verarl, and Wrahl, Mai. Morrul, Hindustani.

B. v. D. 37-40. P . 17. V. 6. A. 23-26. C. 13. L. 1. 51-57. L. tr. f:f

Length of head f, of pectoral j\, of caudal 1, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head J, of body i, of dorsal ^, of anal ^ of ventral ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Situated near the profile. Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of
snout. If diameters apart.

Body long, sub- cylindrical, head depressed, body laterally compressed, wider opposite opercle,
where it about equals the height of the body. Under surface of the head flat : cheeks rather
inflated.

Mouth obtuse, cleft wide, maxilla extending the width of the orbit behind it ; upper jaw
slightly protrusible, wider than the lower, which is rather the longest. A tubercle at the
symphysis of the lower jaw, and a glandular orifice just behind and below it. Four clusters of
glandular openings along the inferior margin of the lower jaw, and many other similar clusters in
various other places on the body and head. Interorbital space flat, and covered with large
polygonal scales. Between the eye and the angle of the preopercle are eight rows of scales. The
opercle ends in an obtuse point. The opening of the posterior nostril are just in front of, and
above the eyes.

Teeth — Numerous, sharp and pointed in jaws, vomer, and palate, with some large curved ones
along the sides and in the posterior row on the lower jaw.

Fins — The dorsal commences just over the pectoral, and terminates slightly posterior to the
termination of the anal : ventral arises opposite the fourth ray of the dorsal, and the anal beneath
the thirteenth dorsal ray. Dorsal'rays weak, membrane rather deeply cleft. Pectoral rounded,
and does not extend so far as the origin of the anal. Ventral small. Anal the same shape as the
dorsal. Caudal rounded.

Scales — Cover body and head : those on the body are irregularly circular and horizontally
lineated ; whilst on the head they are semicircular, and on its vertex irregularly shaped, one large
one existing midway between the orbits. Several glands open on some of the scales.

Lateral line — Consists of short central, bifurcating tubes on each scale ; at first it is on the
fifth row, but opposite the twelfth dorsal ray it bends down to the seventh, from whence it
proceeds direct to the centre of the caudal fin.

PLATE A

P. Dai', del.et .-<•"//■-

<) I'll 1 O (' E I' II A I. I s III 1' I, C> I, II \ M M I"

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 149

Colours — Dark greyish above, dirty white beneath, with bands of grey passing vertically from
the sides on to the abdomen : besides those streaks, there are some small dark grey spots inter-
mingled. Cheeks and lower surface of the mouth streaked and spotted witb grey. Vent ral white,
spotted with black or dark grey. Anal deep grey, with a lino of greyish white at its base, which
is also spotted.

In a young specimen, captured June 17th, 1863, the posterior margin of the dorsal has a large
black ocellus, and an orange tinge, whilst the bands of the body are continued on to the dorsal
and anal fins.

These fish are said to attain three feet in length, and inhabit all stagnant pieces of water and
rivers, whilst their young may be found in every paddy field. They are able to progress to some
distance along the ground, especially in moist places, and thus readily change their locality at the
commencement of the monsoon. In progression they move by the aid of the pectoral and caudal
fins. Owing to the cavity, capable of retaining water which is accessary to the gill cavity, they can
live many hours out of their native element. I am informed that Captain Mitchell of the Madras
Museum endeavoured in 1864 to try experimentally whether, if the 0. striatus, the anabas scan-
dens, and the saccobranchus singio were placed in suitable locabties, and the superincumbent
water were gradually removed, they would endeavour to force themselves into the mud beneath.
Several inches of soft mud from a neighbouring tank was put inside a large vessel, and this
was covered by a few inches of water. Here the fish were placed, and the water was permitted
to gradually drain away, until only mud remained. All the fish died without attempting to bury
themselves, the O. striatus being the last retaining vitality, and they rubbed for themselves a
depression into which water drained whilst any remained, and then they also died without attempt-
ing to force their way into the mud.

This fish is very good eating, but muddy in some pieces of water. It is very voracious, and
takes a bait freely.

Habitat— Fresh waters of India, Ceylon, Burmah, Siam, Malaysia, China, and the Philippine
Islands.

Ophiocephalus GACHUA.

Ophiocephalus gachua, Ham. Buck. pp. 68, 367, pi. 21, f. 21 ; Guntker* Catal. iii.
p. 471.

* Dr. Gilnther is of opinion that the O. auranfiacus, Ham. Buchanan, is identical with this
species, hut considering the latter comes from a mountain stream, whilst the 0. gachua is from the low
country, and the colours widely differ, I have not inserted it amongst the present synonyms, but would
suggest that it is a subject for further investigation. In justice to the researches of that talented
naturalist, Br. Hamilton Buchanan, I would observe that Br. Gilnther is mistaken in asserting of this
fish (pi. 23, f. 22) that " in fact the drawing is taken from the Hardwicke collection," for the work of the
former preceded that of the latter by eight years; whilst he died a year before the commencement of the
publication of " Illustrations of Indian Zoology." It can hardly be considered a good reason that because
the specimen does not now exist in Dr. Buchanan's collection, that he never possessed it, especially as he
distinctly states, " I found it in a pure mountain stream near Goyalpara, in the .N. E. frontier of Bengal."
Any one desirous of ascertaining how the two sets of drawings became intermixed may do so by referring
to Br. McClelland' s paper in the Asiatic Researches, six. p. 218, et seq., and Sir John Richardson's
" Eeport on the Ichthyology of the Seas of China and Japan," in the report of the fifteenth meeting of " the
British Association for the Advancement of Science," p. 188.

150 The fishes of malabar.

Korah mottah, Russell, pi. 49.

Ophiocephalus cora-mota, Guv. & Val. vii. p. 414.

Ophiocephalus marginatus, Cuv. & Val. vii. p. 411; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv.

p. 145.
Ophiocephalus fuscus, Cuv. & Val. vii. p. 414 ; Jerdon, ibid. p. 149.
Ophiocephalus Kelartii, GUnther, Catal. ii. p. 472 (? young).
Kuravu, .MzZ.

B. v. D. 32-33. P. 13. V. 6. A. 21-23. C. 11. L. 1.40-45. L. tr. f .

Length of head \. of pectoral \, of caudal ^, of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal ^ of the
total length. Height of head ^, of body ^, of dorsal ^, of ventral ^'q, of anal ^ of the total
length.

Eyes — Close to profile directed upwards and outwards. Diameter^ of length of head, 1 dia-
meter from end of snout, 2 diameters apart anteriorly, rather more posteriorly.

Body elongated and compressed, head depressed, cheeks puffed out, their transverse width
being rather more than the height of the body.

Mouth deeply cleft, rather rounded anteriorly, lips fleshy : the maxilla extends to beneath
the posterior margin of the orbit. The posterior nostril round, and situated close to the anterior
superior margin of the orbit, the anterior close to the snout, tubular, and its exposed width equal to
half that of the orbit. Two glands on lower surface of inandibula, the posterior the largest : some
circular glandular orifices at posterior margin of the orbit, also on the cheeks and various other
parts of the head.

Teeth — Villiform, in both jaws, with several rows opposite the symphysis, the internal of
which is rather conical and longer than the others. Those on vomer and palate villiform, and
in one crescentic band, with some larger ones interspersed, especially on the vomer : the width
of this band varies in different specimens, whilst in some the larger teeth on the palate are
wanting.

Fins — The pectoral arises a short distance posterior to the opercle, and extends to opposite
the commencement of the anal : the minute ventral is situated under the middle third of the
pectoral, whilst the dorsal commences opposite the origin of the pectoral. Dorsal low, parallel to
the back, and ceasing five scales anterior to the base of the caudal : anal parallel to the abdomen,
and ceasing eight scales anterior to the base of the caudal, which latter fin is wedge-shaped, some-
times rounded, and in the young is one-fifth of the total length.

Scales — Broad and irregular on the summit of head, higher than wide on the body. There
are three rows of scales between the anterior, and four between the posterior margins of the orbit :
the central scale on the head has four in the mesial line anterior to it. Five rows between angle
of orbit and that of the preopercle. Lower jaw with a long oval scale, beneath and opposite to
the end of the maxilla.

Lateral line — In single elevated tubes, the scale being also emarginate and with two or three
small orifices at its base. It passes along the upper third of the body until it arrives opposite the
last quarter of the pectoral where it bends downwards to the centre of the body and is so con-
tinued to the caudal.

Colours — Differ most materially in fishes of this species in accordance with the waters in
which they reside, and the season of the year. Those in paddy fields where the water is clear are

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 151

light and barred, if the water be muddy they arc dark, but some taken out of a well were of a

dark greenish with orange margins to their fins.

They are generally greenish, abdomen dirty green barred with darker stripes. Dorsal, caudal,
and anal tipped with reddish orange. Pectoral barred, and having a black base and a slight tinge
of red. Eyes orange.

In the monsoon timo they become of a dark brown : the orange markings are deeper and
wider, the under surface of the throat and chest bluish : and some irregular bars exist on the
lower fourth of the dorsal fin.

In the young {? O. Kelaartii, Giinther) the colours are greyish brown with superiorly lighter
bars running from behind forwards to the lateral line, and from before backwards below it. The
whole of the head with fine black spots. Dorsal grey irregularly barred, and with a large ocellus
having a white margin covering the last five dorsal rays. Caudal barred. Pectoral and ventral
immaculate.

This fish grows to one foot in length in Bengal, but not to above six inches in Malabar. It
is found in almost every pond of fresh water. It takes a bait freely, and is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — Fresh waters of India and Ceylon.

Ophiocephalus punctatus.

Ophiocephalus punctatus, Block, t. 358 ; Guv. & Vol. vii. p. 404 ; Jerdon, Madras

Journal, xv. p. 145 ; Giinther, Catal. iii. p. 469.
Ophiocephalus latus, Ham. Buck. pp. 63, 637, pi. 34, f. 18.
Ophiocephalus Indicus, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H., ii. p. 533.

B. v. D. 29-31. P. 16. V. 6. A. 31. C. 12. L. 1. 40. L. tr. f.

Length of head f, of pectoral \, of caudal nearly \ of the total length. Height of head },
of body ^, of ventral ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Close to profile, diameter £ of the length of the head, 1 diameter from end of snout,
more than 1 diameter apart.

Body elongated, cylindrical, compressed posteriorly : head depressed, cheeks puffed out, its
transverse width three-fifths of its length.

Mouth widely cleft, rather rounded anteriorly, and the maxilla extending to nearly as far as
the posterior margin of the orbit, and slightly protractile. Opercle ends in an obtuse angle.
There are five rows of scales between the eye and the angle of the preopercle which is rounded.
The anterior nasal orifice is furnished with a short fleshy tentacle. Numerous well marked glan-
dular orifices exist on the scales of the head : there are three a little behind the eyes, three in a
vertical bne on the preopercle, and three larger ones on each ramus of the lower jaw.

Teeth— Numerous and villiform, with a posterior row of four or five conical ones on either
side of the lower jaw, villiform ones on vomer and palatine bones.

Fins— The ventrals arise very near together and slightly posterior to the pectoral. The
pectoral rounded and extends to the origin of the anal fin. The dorsal commences above the
origin of the ventrals and is continued nearly to the caudal, the finless portion of the tail equal to
one-fifteenth of the length of the fish : the length of the dorsal rays is nearly the same and equals
about half the height of the body. The anal commences opposite the anterior third of the dorsal.
Caudal rounded.

152 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Scales— Large, about one quarter longer than they are high. Those on the head are irregular

in their shape.

Lateral line— Is nearly straight, with the exception of a curve behind the end of the pectoral
fin. Its anterior portion is in the upper third of the body, its last portion central, it is marked by
a straight elevation along the centre of each scale.

Colours— Back dirty green, fading to yellowish white on the abdomen. A dark stripe extends
from the eye to the tail, and from it several irregular bands pass towards the back, these are
most numerous in those taken in dirty water. These markings are often wanting in the young.
There are also some spots along the abdominal surface and on the dorsal and anal fins.
Pectorals grey. Ventrals whitish and without spots.

Grows to one foot in length, and is esteemed for eating by the Natives.

Habitat — Fresh waters of India, Ceylon, and Burmah.

Fam. FISTULARIDiE, Mull.
AULOSTOMATOIDEI, et FlSTULAROIDEI, BUek&r.

Genus FISTULAEIA, Lin. sp.

Solenostomus, sp. Klein & Gronow.
Cannorhynchus, Cantor.

Branchiostegals, five : pseudobranchise. Body elongated, depressed, anterior bones of skull elongated
forming a long depressed tube which ends in a narrow mouth, jaws slightly cleft, nearly horizontal.
Eyes lateral. Teeth small. One dorsal of moderate length and resembling the anal. Ventrals abdominal
with six rays. Caudal forked, the two middle rays ending in long filamentous prolongations. Scales absent.
Lateral line continuous. Air bladder large. Pyloric appendages in small numbers. Intestinal tract short.

FlSTULARIA SERRATA.

Fistularia serrata, Cuvier, Keg. Anim. ; Guniher, Catal. iii. p. 533.

Goorum, Russell, pi. 173.

Cannorhynchus immaculatus, Cantor, Catal. p. 211.

B. vii. D. 13-17. P. 15. V. 6. A. 14-15. C. 2 + 6 | 2 | 6 + 2.

Length of head \, of pectoral £$, of caudal without including its prolongation ^, of caudal
including its prolongation \, of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal ^ of the total length not
including the prolongation of its caudal fin. Height of head -^, of body ^, of dorsal ^, of anal
■jJ¥, of ventral ^ of the total length not including the prolongation of its caudal fin.

Eyes — Close to upper profile. Horizontal diameter yL, vertical diameter ^ of the length of
the head, 9 horizontal diameters from end of snout, nearly 1 horizontal diameter apart.
Body cylindrical, with an elongated flattened tubular snout.

Orifice of mouth oblique, situated at the anterior tenth of the snout, lower jaw the longest,
and having a tubercle at the symphysis : the posterior half of the external margin of the snout
strongly denticulated, the most posterior denticulations being the longest and widest apart. Some
sharp denticulations along the anterior and posterior margins of the orbit, and the anterior margin
of which is extended into a sharp spine. There are two grooves along the upper surface of the

the fishes OF MALABAR. L53

snout which is elevated at its extremity. Some elevatod, radiating linos commence from a short
distance in front of the anterior margin of tho orbit, and coalesce with those from the opposite
side at tho anterior fifth of the snout. Behind tho orbits are irregular radiating lines coalescing
on tho summit of the head with those from the opposite side. Opcrclo also with radiating raised
lines, and above it a longitudinal serrated ridge. An elevated, sharp, bony, lateral ridge extends
from the dorsal to the side of the caudal, it is most indistinct anteriorly.

Teeth — Villiform, unequal, small in jaws, also on palatines, and from four to six on the vomer.

Fins — Pectoral rounded, it arises just behind opercle. Dorsal in posterior fourth of the
distance from the orbit to the base of the caudal, its sixth ray tho longest, its upper margin
concave. Anal opposite the dorsal and of the same shape. Caudal lobed, with its two central
rays prolonged into long filiform processes.

Lateral line — Commences above opercle, it consists of a number of linear tubes, deeply cleft
at both ends, which behind the dorsal fin change to short, bony, spine-like ridges, as already
described.

Colours — Reddish brown above, becoming greyish on the sides, and white on the abdomen.
Numerous fine black points exist along the back. A silvery white band borders the lateral line.
Fins transparent, caudal filament brownish olive. Iris golden round the pupil. Dr. Ruppell
observed a lateral series of blue spots in some of his specimens.

Grows to two feet in length.

Habitat — Seas of India. From the Coast of Mosanibique to the Seas of China, and New
Holland.

Fam. MASTACEMBELIDiE, Giinther.

ScOMBEROIDEI, pt. CuVier.
NOTACANTHI, pt. Mull.

Rhynchobdelloidei, Bleeker.

Genus MASTACEMBELUS, Guv. & Vol.

Branehiostegals, six : pseudobranchise. Body elongated, eel-shaped. Eyes lateral. Head elongated,
the upper jaw terminating in a soft, moveable, fleshy appendage which is not transversely striated inferiorly.
Cleft of mouth narrow. Preopercle generally with spinous teeth at its angle. Dorsal fin long, the
anterior portion composed of free spines. No ventrals. Anal generally with three spines. Dorsal, caudal,
and anal continuous. Teeth minute. Scales small. Air bladder present. Pyloric appendages two.

Mastacemblus armatus.
Macrognathus armatus, Lacep. ii. p. 286 ; Ham. Bitch, pp. 28, 364, pi. 37, f. 6.
Mastacemblus armatus, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 456, pi. 240 ; Sykes, Trans. Zool. Soc. ii.

p. 350, pi. 60, f. 2 ; Giinther, Catal. hi. p. 542.
Mastacemblus Ponticerianus, Cuv. & Vol. viii. p. 460.

Mastacemblus marmoratus, Guv. & Vol. viii. p. 461 ; Jerdon, Madras Journ. xv. p. 147.
Macrognathus undulatus et Hamiltonii, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. iv. pp. 393, 398,

pi. 22, f. 1.

B. vi. D. 35-39 | 74-87. P. 23. A. 3 | 79-87. C. 15. Csec. pylor. 2. Vert.ff.

x

154 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

Length of head ^> °f pectoral ^g, of caudal ^, of base of first dorsal T4y, of base of second
dorsal J, of base of anal a little more than -3- of total length. Height of head ^7, of body -J, of
first dorsal about ■£$, of second dorsal g\, of anal ^ of total length.

Byes — Horizontal diameter -fe, vertical diameter y1^ of length of head, 2-|- diameters from end
of snout, rather more than |- a horizontal diameter apart.

Body elongated and eel-like, laterally compressed, head pointed.

Mouth rather oblique, cleft narrow, jaws not protractile, the upper the longest, with a soft
elongated snout trilobed at its end, and about equal to one diameter and a quarter of the orbit in
length ; lips fleshy. Posterior margin of the maxilla extends to rather behind the anterior margin
of the oi'bit. Opercle rounded posteriorly, without any spine. Preopercle with the posterior
border short and rather vertical ; the angle and lower limb forming an oblique curve ; at the angle
there are two sharp spines directed backwards, the superior nearly twice as long as the inferior.
Nostrils large and opposite the centre of the orbit. Two small spines beneath the orbit.
Teeth — Villiform, and in several sharp rows.

Fins — First dorsal commences over the posterior third of the pectoral, and the anal rather
in front of the second dorsal and continuous with the caudal. Pectoral short and rounded. The
first dorsal consists of a series of sharp spines, — connected in then- posterior lower halves by a
short membrane, — increasing very gradually in length from the first to the last, which is strong,
rounded, and nearly as long as the rays of the second dorsal. The second dorsal is continuous
with the caudal and consists of branched rays. Caudal with a square base and a rather rounded
extremity. Anus midway between the posterior border of the opercle and the base of the caudal,
behind it there are two spines, the first being short, the second strong and tapering, one third
longer than the last dorsal spine, they can be received into a sheath: anteriorly, and nearer
to the commencement of the anal fin, there is a third very short sharp spine hidden in the flesh.
Scales — Very minute, they cover the opercles and head.
Lateral line — Nearly straight.

Colours — Dark green, marbled in about twenty stripes, and with a yellowish tinge ; the
anterior portion of the abdomen dirty white, and the under surface of the throat white. Caudal
and pectoral fins barred.

Air vessel simple, lengthened and pointed at both extremities.

Common in the rivers of Malabar, and is good eating, especially when curried. It is dangerous
to handle on account of its spines.

Grows to two feet and upwards in length.

Habitat — Fresh waters of India, Ceylon, and China.

Mastacemblus Guntheei. Plate XI.

Ma.^tacemblus Guntheei, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 37.

B. vi. D. 27-28 | 60-64. P. 15. A. 3 [ 62-64. C. 9.

Length of head \, of pectoral ^3, of caudal y1^, of base of hard dorsal %, of soft dorsal \, of
anal § of total length. Height of head ^3, of body \, of soft dorsal 05, of anal j1^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter ^ length of head, rather more than 1 diameter apart, and 4 diameters from
end of snout.

Upper jaw longer than the lower. The soft snout extends one tenth of the length of the

PLATE XI.

M .\ s T A r I'. M D 1. r S 0 l" S T II B R 1

F.Day. ilsl.cl ...,.//■■

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. I 55

head beyond the end of the jaw. Clefi of mouth small, and extending aboul half-way to the orbit.

Preoperele with two spines at its angle directed backwards and downwards, and some fine serra-
tures along its lower limb. A rather long, strong, sharp, and erectile preorbital spine.

Teeth — Several rows <>'f sharply pointed teeth, directed backwards, in both upper and lower
jaws.

Fins — Dorsal spines strong, short and sharp, commencing about the termination of the first
fifth of the body. Soft dorsal, caudal and anal united. Anal spines strong, the central one the
longest and strongest, the third nearly hidden ; they can be laid flat in a kind of sheath.

Scales — Cover the whole of the head, including tho interoi'bital space, and to the end of the
snout. There are thirteen rows between the orbit and the angle of tho preoperele.

Lateral line — As in the last species.

Colours — Greenish brown. A yellowish white streak passes from just .above the eye, along
the lateral line to the centre of the caudal. Abdomen from vent to head of dull yellowish white,
with a number of blotchy markings extending on to it from the sides. Opercles greyish brown,
and the throat of the same colour. Preoperele of a lighter tint, and the lower jaw of a dirty white.
Soft portion of the dorsal dotted with brown, and with fourteen irregular blotches along its base,
extending on to the back. Caudal with a black bar at its base, and four or five lighter ones
between that and its extremity. Anal irregularly spotted.

Very common in the paddy fields and in the backwater at Trichoor.

Grows to seven inches in length. Is good eating.

Habitat — Malabar.

x 2

156 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Order.— PHARYNGOGNATHI.
Sub-Ordee.-PHARYNGOGNATHI ACANTHOPTERYGII.

Fam. POMACENTRID.E, Gunther.

SciiENOiDEi, pt. Cuvier.
Labroidei ctenoidei, Mull.
Otenolabrid^e, Owen.

Genus GLYPHIDODON, Laeep.
Euschistodus et hypsypops, sp. Gill.

Branchiostegals, five or six : pseudobranchiae. Body short, more or less compressed. Eyes lateral.
Cleft of mouth small. Preopercle entire. Teeth compressed and in a single row, sometimes every alter-
nate one being similar. One dorsal, with the spinous as well developed or more so than the soft portion.
Two spines to anal fin. Ventrals thoracic, with one spine and five rays. Scales of moderate size over
body and head. The lateral line either ceases below the posterior portion of the dorsal fin, or is continued
in the form of small circular orifices. Air bladder present. Pylorie appendages three.

Glyphidodon Cochinensis. Plate XII.
Glyphidodon Cochinensis, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 38.

B. v. D. jf. P. 15. V. l. A. T%. L. 1. 28. L. tr. f.

Length of head T2T, of pectoral ^, of caudal J, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal j2T of total
length. Height of head T2T, of body §, of hard dorsal T2g, of soft dorsal §, of base of caudal ^, of
ventral -J, of anal | of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter | length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body ovoid and compressed, the width at the shoulder being scarcely equal to half its height :
profile from the snout to the dorsal fin convex. Soft portions of dorsal, anal, and caudal fins much
elongated.

Maxilla extends to opposite the anterior margin of the orbit : jaws of equal length. Preopercle
entire ; posterior limb slightly oblique, and half as long again as the inferior, which is horizontal,
the angle being rounded. Sub- and interopercles entire. Opercle ending in a flat moderately
strong spine a little below the level of the lower margin of the orbit ; a second exists a short
distance above, and in one specimen a third about an equal distance below the central one.
Nostrils a short distance apart, and near the anterior surface of the orbit slightly above its mesial
liue : the posterior is round, the anterior transversely oval. All the opercles and the interorbital
space scaled. Suprascapular, scapular, and humeral bones entire.

Teeth — In a single flattened and compressed row, decreasing in size from the centre of the
jaws to their circumference.

Fins — Dorsal commences opposite the end of the opercle : pectoral slightly behind : and the
ventral a little more posteriorly : anal begins about opposite the tenth dorsal spine. Spinous
portion of dorsal occupies three-fourths of the base of the fin, its spines moderately strong :
interspinous membrane slightly longer than the spines, and deeply notched ; soft portion elongated,
first spine one third shorter than the second, from whence they gradually increase to the last,
which is two and a half times as long as the first. Pectoral rounded. Ventral spine moderately
strong, two thirds the length of the anterior rays, the first of which is prolonged. First spine of anal

/'/. ./?■/;• XII

r Va: . ./r/.n eaulp ■

fi I. VI' II 1 1> l> ]> (> N COfHINKNSIS

THE FISHES OE MALABAB. 157

half the height of the second, the soft rays are prolonged. Caudal deeply lunated and the outer
rays much prolonged.

Scales— Greatest diameter from above downwards ; some of them are continued over the soft
portions of the dorsal, anal, and tho commencement of the caudal fins.

Lateral line— At first passes along the third scale, on which it is continued for about eighteen,
when it apparently ceases opposite the end of the dorsal fin, but is in reality continued on the
sixth row, in the form of round glandular cavities, in the centre of each scale.

Colours— Of a deep purplish black: the margins of some of the scales having a whitish
shade. It is lightest on the abdomen. Pectoral fins not so deeply stained as the others. Eyes
dark hazel.

Only three specimens were observed at Cochin, and they were all captured in one net. Grows
to about four inches in lenjrth.

Habitat — Cochin on the Malabar Coast.

Fam. LABRID^!, Cuvier.
Labroidei cycloidei, Mull.

CyclolabeidtE, Owen.

Sub-Fam. JULIDINA, Gunther.
Xiphochilus, Bleeker.

Genus PLATYGLOSSUS, Klein, sp.
Halich.eres, sp. Riippell.
Julis, sp. Guv. & Vol.

Platyglossus, halich^eres, macropharyngodon, Guntheria, et hemitantoga, Bleeker.
Ch^ero julis, Gill.

Branchiostegals, five or six: pseudobranchia). Body oblong and compressed. Eyes lateral. Cleft
of mouth small. Only one inferior pharyngeal bone without median suture. Teeth conical on jaws with
a posterior canine. One dorsal fin, the spinous portion as well developed or more so than the soft : soft
anal similar to soft dorsal. Ventral thoracic with one spine and five rays. Scales cycloid and of moderate
size, none (or a very few) on the head. Lateral line continuous, forming a curve opposite end of dorsal
fin. Air bladder present. Pyloric appendages none.

Platyglossus nigrescens.
Labrus nigrescens, Block Schn. p. 263.
Sahnee moia, Russell, pi. 120.

Julis Dussumieri, Cuv. & Vol. xiii. p. 476, pi. 387 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 236.
Helich.eres nigrescens, Bleeker, Atlas Icthyologique des Indes Orientales

Neerlandaises, i. p. 118, t. 37, f. 4.
Platyglossus Dussumieri, Gunther, Catal. iv. p. 143.

KULLARAY MEEN, Mai.

B. vi. D. TV P. 15. V. J. A. f%. C. 15. L. 1. 29. L. fcr. -ft.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal T2T, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head T2T, of body f, of hard dorsal j^, of soft dorsal 1, of ventral \, o\
length.

158 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Eyes Diameter \ of length of head, 1J diameters from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body elongated and compressed, snout rather produced, profile rising to the dorsal but rather
concave between the snout and the middle of the orbit. Head rather pointed in front.

Mouth moderately protrusible, lower jaw the longest. Maxilla does not extend as far as
below the anterior margin of the orbit : Ups rather fleshy. Posterior margin of the preopercle
rather oblique, angle rounded, lower limb horizontal and scarcely more than half the height of the
vertical one. Opercle irregularly triangular, ending in a soft fleshy termination. Interorbital

space moderately flat.

Teeth Sharp and conical, two or three rather large ones about the centre of the upper jaw.

A row of rounded teeth posteriorly. Those on each side of the symphysis larger than the
succeeding seven which gradually decrease in length. Some on the palate.

Fins— Dorsal and ventral situated on a line, and slightly in advance of the pectoral : the anal
opposite the end of the pectoral. Dorsal spines slender, the membrane slightly notched, the third
spine the longest ; the rays but little longer than the spines, the last ones rather prolonged. A
very short interspace exists between the end of the dorsal and the base of the caudal. Pectoral
rounded. Ventral pointed, its spine weak, and the first ray ending in a filamentous prolonga-
tion. The third anal spine the longest, all are weak, the rays a little longer than the spines,
and slightly produced. Caudal with a broad base, and a broadly rounded extremity.

Scales — Large, none on the head.

Lateral line— In upper fourth of body, and composed of a single tube on each scale having
four or more smaller ones branching off posteriorly : opposite the ninth or tenth dorsal ray, it
suddenly bends downwards to the centre of the body, and passes direct to the middle of the caudal.

Colours — Green, with five or six bars of rather a deep blue, checquered with a deep dull
reddish purple. A black spot at the base of the pectoral, in front of which there is a vivid
green mark. Eye of a light ccerulean blue, with an inner golden margin round the pupil. Some
irregular bands of red between the eyes, one passing downwards and forwards to the centre of the
snout : a line of red passes along the lower margins of the opercle, sub- and preopercles ; and
two or three other irregular lines on the different opercles. The pectoral fin has no markings
except at its base ; on the ventral there is a red streak between the first and second soft rays, and
in the dorsal an oval yellow spot between each ray, the rest of the fin being reddish margined
with a lighter tint, and tipped with white. The anal of the same colour as the dorsal. The
caudal tipped with blue, its angles being orange with a red base, and a lilac band passing across
the fin from one angle to the other : posterior to this it has a red pavement the same as on the
body. There is a black spot on the dorsal, between the fifth and sixth rays.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Fam. GERRID.E, Giinther.
Genus GEBBES, Cumer.

Catoch^enum, Cantor.
Diapterus et SYNISTIUS, Gill.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchire. Body compressed, oblong, or elevated. Eyes large, lateral.
Mouth very protractile downwards. Angle and inferior margin of preopercle toothed or entire. One
dorsal fin, with the spinous and soft portions equally developed, and having, as well as the anal, a scaly
sheath along its base. Anal with three — sometimes- two — spines, and its soft portion similar to the soft

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 159

dorsal. Ventral thoracic, with one spine and five rays. Caudal forked. Scales large, and deciduous. The
lower pharyngeal bones arc firmly united by a suture. Teeth in jaws velvety. Air bladder simple. Pyloric
appendages in small numbers. Vertebra? ] '('.

Gerres FILAMENTOSUS.
Woodawahah, Russell, pi. 68.

Gerres filamentosus, Cuv. & Val. vi. p. 482; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 345, iv. p. 261.
Catogtlenum filamentosum, Cantor, Catal. p. 56.

B. vi. D. T*0, P. 15. V. i A. f C. 17. L. 1. 42-45. L. tr. f-^.

Length of head \, of pectoral f , of caudal § , of base of dorsal |, of base of anal T2f of total length.
Height of head §, of body §, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal \, of ventral }3, of anal }3 of total
length.

Eyes — Large and near the profile ; diameter \ length of head, \ of a diameter from end of
snout, and the same distance apart.

Body compressed and elevated.

Maxilla extends to beneath the first fourth of the orbit. Snout elevated. Preopercle entire,
its horizontal margin about half as long as its vertical ; angle rounded. Opercle with two blunt
points, separated by a crescentic margin. Subopercle narrow. Interopercles rather wide.

Teeth — Velvety in the jaws ; none on vomer or palate.

Fins— Dorsal commences slightly behind the pectoral, but opposite the origin of the ventral ;
and the anal opposite the fourth ray of the dorsal. Dorsal spines strong, and flattened laterally ;
the first short, the second prolonged, its size varying, that of the third equals the distance from
the snout to the posterior margin of the eye ; the membrane is slightly notched : the base of the
spinous portion equals that of the soft ; a scaly sheath extends along its base : the hard portion
concave above, and the soft short and straight. Pectoral pointed, and extends to above the first
anal ray. Ventral spine weak, first ray prolonged. First spine of anal weak, and slightly longer
than the third ; the rays gradually decrease in length : this fin has a sheath the same as the dorsal.
Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Cover the body and opercles.

Lateral line — In single tubes on each scale, and following the curve of the back.

Colours — Summit of head and back pale greenish grey, the rest of the body silvery with
reddish reflections. Above and following the lateral line, there are two parallel series of large
oval blackish spots, and below the line one or two straight series of similar but smaller spots.
Dorsal, anal, and caudal fins pale yellow : the spines, rays, and membranes of the dorsal and caudal
minutely dotted with brown ; the superior margin of the dorsal black ; the posterior margin i if
the caudal pale blackish ; ventrals and pectorals white. Iris pale golden.

Grows to eight inches in length. Is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Geeres punctatus.
Woodan, Russell, pi. 68.
Gerres punctatus, Cuv. & Val. vi. p. 480 ; Giinther, Catal. i. p. 346, iv. p. 260.

B. vi. D.TV P. 15. V. l A. f C. 17. L.l. 42. L. tr. §.

Length of head \} of pectoral J, of caudal \, of base of dorsal §, of base of anal \ of

160 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

total length. Height of head \, of body \, of hard dorsal \, of soft dorsal ^j, of base of caudal \,
of ventral J, of anal \ of total length.

Byes — In upper part of the head, and close to the profile. Horizontal diameter § , vertical
diameter \ of length of head, f of a horizontal diameter from end of snout, and the same distance
apart.

Body compressed, and of a long ovoid shape, broadest in front : the rise from the snout to the
first dorsal is abrupt. There is a slight elevation on the snout, another just in front of the orbits,
and a depression over the centre of the orbits. From the mouth to the ventrals, the profile is
nearly straight.

Mouth comparatively smaE, compressed, and wide. Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior
third of the orbit, and is overlapped by the anterior portion of the preorbital. Upper jaw pro-
trusible. Preorbital nearly triangular. Preopercle finely serrated, with the vertical limb rather
obhque, and the angle produced and rounded; the horizontal limb half the height of the vertical
one. Opercles narrow, three times higher than wide. Nostrils over the anterior third of the
orbits, approximating behind, the largest with a bony ridge over it, and an oval depression pos-
teriorly.

Fins — Pectoral and dorsal arise on a line, ventral slightly behind ; anal opposite the fifth
dorsal ray. Dorsal highest in front, the second spine the longest, from whence they gradually
decrease to the last : the membrane rather deeply notched. Pectoral long, pointed, and extending
nearly to the end of the anal fin. Ventral spine moderately strong. The second spine of the anal
much the strongest, and of the same length as the third. Caudal deeply lobed. Dorsal and
anal with a scaly sheath along each of their bases.

Scales — Rather deciduous.

Lateral line — Follows the curve of the back in its upper third.

Colours — Greyish silvery above, with a purplish reflection, and fading to silvery on the abdo-
men. A row of dark spots extends along the base of the dorsal fin. Iris yellowish, with some
minute black points. The young have indistinct cross bands.

Grows to eight inches in length, and is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — Seas of India and China.

* Gerees limbatus.

Gerres limbatus, Guv. & Veil, vi. p. 476 ; Gunther, Catal. iv. p. 259.
Catoch^num limbatum, Cantor, Catal. p. 55.

B. vi. D. T9o- P. 15. V. l. A. T_V C. 17. L. 1. 37. L. tr. f0.

Height of body t3q of total length.

Eyes— Diameter f of length of head, rather more than 1 diameter from end of snout,
1 diameter apart.

Mouth very protractile. The preorbital and preopercle entire, but in the young the lower
margin of the latter is toothed. The groove for the processes of the intermaxillaries is devoid of
scales, and extends rather beyond the anterior margin of the orbit.

Teeth — Velvety in the jaws.

Fins — The second spine of the dorsal is much longer than the third, in the adult being above
half the height of the body in length : but in the young the two spines are of equal length : the
scaly sheath to the fin is moderately developed. The second anal spine is stronger and a little
longer than the third, being more than half the length of the second dorsal spine.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 101

Scales — Deciduous.

Lateral line — Follows the curve of the back.

Colours — Silvery with lilac reflections; dorsal, caudal, and anal fins pale yellow; dorsal
spines, rays, and membrane, minutely dotted with brown, their upper margins black : caudal with
a broad blackish margin : ventrals and pectorals white. Iris silvery, or pale golden.

Grows to seven inches in length. Is considered good eating : the young are dried at
Penang and used for food.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Fam. CHROMIDES, Mull.
Genus ETEOPLUS, Guv. and Vol.

Branchio>tegals, six: pseudobranchise absent. Body oblong, elevated, and compressed. Eyes lateral.
Cleft of mouth short. Teeth in one or two rows, compressed and lobate, none on palate. One dorsal fin
with a developed spinous portion : anal spines also numerous. Ventral thoracic with one spine and five
rays. The inferior pharyngeal bones triangular with a median suture. Anterior prominences of branchial
arches few, short, conical, and hard. Scales of moderate size, ctenoid. Lateral line interrupted. Air
bladder present. Pyloric appendages none. Stomach with a cscal appendage.

Eteoplus Sueatensis.

ChjEtodon Sueatensis, Bloch, t. 217.
Ch^etodon caeis, Ham. Buck. pp. 125, 372.
Eteoplus meleageis, Guv. & Vol. v. p. 486.
Eteoplus maculatus, Jerdon, Madras Journ. xv. p. 142.
Eteoplus Sueatensis, Giintker, Catal. iv. p. 266.

B. vi. D. l6{l°. P. 17. V. i A. jf. C. 16. L. 1. 45. L. tr. 21.

Length of head T^, pectoral \, base of dorsal a little above \, base of anal |, of caudal \ of
total length. Height of head \, of body nearly ^, of hard dorsal TXT, of soft dorsal \, of anal
spines ry, of anal rays \, of ventral -^ of total length.

Eyes — High, not far from the profile. Diameter \ length of head, 2 diameters from end of
snout, and 1J diameters apart.

Mouth oval, very compressed, and situated below the centre of the body. Profile rises
abruptly to the base of the dorsal, but is rather concave between the snout and the upper margin
of the orbit. Lower profile not quite so rounded as the upper.

Lower jaw slightly the longest. Maxilla extends more than half way to the orbit. Preopercle
oblique and entire. Opercle entire. Shoulder bones entire. Nostrils situated about midway
between the eye and the snout.

Teeth — In two rows in each jaw, compressed, and sharp in the centre, with a small lobe on
each side ; no teeth on the palate.

Fins — Pectoral arises close behind the central line of the opercle ; the commencement of the
dorsal fin is in a fine above it : the ventral is beneath the fourth dorsal spine, and there is a very

Y

162 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

short finless space between the terminations of the dorsal and anal, and the commencement of
the caudal. Dorsal spines strong, the spinous portion occupying seven tenths of the length of
the base of the fin ; the interspinous membrane deeply notched and longer than the spines : the
fourth ray is the longest, and extends to three fourths the length of the caudal : the last is the
shortest, being not quite a fourth of the length of the longest ray. The anal spines occupy seven
tenths of the length of the base of the fin, and both spines and rays are the same as in the dorsal.
Both dorsal and anal spines can be laid fiat in a groove. Pectoral rather pointed. Ventral spine
moderately strong, and a third longer than any of the dorsal spines. Caudal broad at its extremity
and slightly emarginate.

Scales — Ctenoid, covering the opercles, none on the snout, between the eyes, or on the
preorbitals, but they are extended on to the caudal, and along the base of dorsal and anal fins in
the form of a scaly sheath.

Lateral line — In upper fourth of body, extending along about sixteen scales, and ceasing
opposite the twelfth dorsal spine.

Colours — Light green, with eight vertical bands, the first passes over the occiput, the last
across the base of the caudal, and the other six are intermediate. Most of the scales above the
lateral line have a central white pearly spot, whilst there are some irregular black spots over the
abdomen. The dorsal, caudal, ventral, and anal are of a dark leaden colour, the pectoral yellowish,
with a jet black base.

Specimens from the salt water are of a deep purple colour, the bands almost black, and the
white spots very distinct.

During the monsoon time the colours of this fish are most beautiful, the eight vertical bands
are more distinctly marked, the abdomen is nearly white, the back of a deep green, and the round
white spot on nearly every scale gleams like a small pearl.

Very young fish have a large black ocellus surrounded by a white margin, extending from the
fourth to the tenth soft rays of the dorsal fin.

Very common in all pieces of fresh water. Excellent eating, especially when of a large size.
It grows to upwards of a foot in length. It takes a bait freely, but is not so easily captured in a
net, as it appears to bury itself in the mud.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Southern India and Ceylon.

Etroplus maculates.

Ch,etodon maculatus, Bloch, t. 427, f. 2 ; Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 489 ; Giinther, Catal. iv.

p. 266.
Etroplus coruchi, Cuv. & Vol. v. p. 491, pi. 136 ; Jerdon, Madras Journ. xv.

p. 142.

PULLUTTAY, Mai.

B. vi. D. '§. P. 14. V. i. A. L3. C. 16. L. 1. 35. L. tr. 21.

Length of head f , of pectoral f , of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal §, of caudal \ of total
length. Height of head f , of body §, of hard dorsal ^j, of soft dorsal J, of ventral -J, of anal
spines Tlr, of anal rays | of total length.

Byes — Diameter ^ length of head, slightly more than 1 diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter
apart.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 1^3

Body oval and strongly compressed. Mouth situated in the lower third of the body. Profile
rises abruptly to the dorsal, and is slightly concave between the snout and the upper margin of
the orbit. Lower profile not quite so convex as the upper.

Lower jaw rather the longest. Maxilla extends two-thirds of the distance to the orbit,
Preopercle oblique and entire. Opercle entire. Shoulder bones entire.

Teeth — As in the Etroplus Suratensis, but rather more pointed.

Pins—Pectoral arises close behind the opercle, and the commencement of the dorsal is
slightly in advance of it. The finless space on the tail is short. Dorsal spines strong and occupy-
ing eleven fourteenths of the entire fin : interspinous membrane deeply notched and longer than
the spines : the fourth ray the most produced, extending to the posterior third of the caudal.
Anal spines strong, and occupying seven tenths of the entire base of fin ; the rays are the same
as in the dorsal. Both dorsal and anal spines can be laid flat in a groove. Ventral spine mode-
rately strong, slightly exceeding the longest dorsal spine in length. Pectoral rather pointed.
Caudal lunated and emarginate.

Scales — Ctenoid, and in other respects the same as in the E. Suratensis.

Colours— Yellowish with a greenish back, and about seventeen horizontal lines of deep golden
spots along the dorsal fin, the back, and the abdomen, occasionally a few also exist on the anal.
Between the dorsal spines and rays there are more spots, some being brown and others yellow.
Along the lateral line are three black finger marks, the central one being the largest. Ventral
and anal fins stained with a deep black. In specimens taken from January to May there is
occasionally a reddish tinge at the extremity of the caudal fin, and a leaden or violet hue over the
body, and the number of the golden spots is apparently less.

Having captured about fifty specimens on July 15, 1863, in the fort ditch at Cochin, for the
purpose of minutely examining their coloration, I found that no two could be said to be identical.
The seventeen lines of golden spots were more or less apparent in all ; in some the three blotches
on the side were black, in others of a light emerald green, whilst all intermediate shades were
perceptible : some were glossed over with purple, which tint was absent in others.

Common in every paddy field, tank, or piece of fresh water, and even occasionally found in
the backwater within the influence of the tides. Eaten by the Natives ; but as it rarely, if ever,
exceeds three inches in length, it is not employed as food by Europeans.
Habitat — Fresh waters of India and Ceylon.

SUB-ORDER.-MALAOOPTEBYGIIPHARYNGOGNATHI.

Fam. SCOMBERESOCID.E, Mull.

Genus BELONE, Owner.

Branchiostegals, from about ten to fifteen. Body subcylindrical and elongated. The jaws extended
into a long beak, the upper portion principally formed of the intermaxillaries, and its base by the maxilla.
Under the symphysis of the lower jaw is a soft fleshy appendage. Eyes lateral. A single dorsal situated
in the posterior portion of the body, opposite an anal of the same description. Ventral six-rayed, anterior

y 2

164 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

to the dorsal. Caudal generally lobed, the lower being usually the longest. Teeth in both jaws, in two or
three rows of different sizes : pharyngeal teeth conical ; absent on the vomer, except in the Belone vulgaris.
Scales small. Bones green. Gill openings very wide. Air vessel large. Csecal appendages absent.

Belone caudimaculata.

Belone caudimaculata, Guv. & Veil, xviii. p. 452 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 246.
Kuddera, A. Russell, pi. 176.
Coplah, Mai.

B. xii. D. 13-14. P. 11. V. 6. A. 16-17. C. 15.

Length of head ^, of pectoral -j-1^, of base of dorsal fa, of base of anal ^, of caudal fa of
total length. Height of head fa, of body fa, of dorsal fa, of anal fa of total length.

Eyes — Diameter fa of length of head, 1 diameter apart.

Mouth from the gape to extremity three-tenths of the total length. Upper and lateral sur-
faces of snout compressed. The posterior margin of the maxilla reaches to beneath the centre of
the orbit. Central line of lower jaw elevated, and covered with transverse rough plates. Pre-
opercle wide ; opercle posteriorly rounded. Infraorbital space nearly flat, with a wide longitu-
dinal groove.

Teeth — In upper jaw widely separated, sharp, straight, and directed slightly backwards ; in
the last ninth they are smaller, and more closely set ; between, or rather anterior to them, there
is a series of villiform ones, which are in two rows in the centre, and iu three or more at the base.
In the lower jaw the large teeth are anteriorly the same as in the upper ; there are two external
rows of villiform, one directed upwards, and the other rather outwards : which posteriorly increase
to two, three, or even more.

Fins — Pectoral just behind the opercle, in the centre of the body : ventral rather nearer the
posterior extremity of the pectoral than to the commencement of the anal : anal in the last third
of body rather in advance of the dorsal, which last is highest in front, with the upper margin con-
cave : anal of the same shape. Caudal with rounded lobes.

Scales — Over the body and opercles.

Lateral line — Double ; the upper one passes from the superior margin of the opercle along the
upper fourth of the back, gradually rising until opposite the ventral, when it descends to the
centre and proceeds straight to the middle of the caudal. The lower lateral line at first commences
some distance before the pectoral in the lower fourth of the body, then rises to midway between
the termination of the pectoral and the commencement of the anal, and sinks again until it is close
to the base of the latter fin, from whence it gradually ascends, and joins the upper line close to
the caudal.

Colours — Summit of head and back yellowish green, with minute brown dots, fading into
silvery on the sides, and white on the abdomen. Cheeks and opercles silvery. A deep blue longi-
tudinal band, bordered beneath by another broader one of silver, passes along the posterior half of
the sides. Dorsal, and sometimes the anal, bright yellow, and the rays dotted with brown.
Pectorals and ventral diaphanous, the latter occasionally with a black spot at the base. Caudal
yellowish or greenish, minutely dotted with black, and having a round bluish-black spot in the
centre near the root. Iris silvery ; upper surface of eye bluish-black.

Grows to about two feet in length. It is only captured in the sea at Cochin, and at the mouth

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 165

of the river within the influence of the tides. The Natives consider it good eating, but it is not
much esteemed by Europeans, on account of the large number of bones it contains.

Habitat-Seas and estuaries (fresh water ?) of India, Malaysia, China, and North Australia.

Belone annulata.

Belone annulata, Cuv. & Veil xviii. p. 447, pi. 550; Cantor, Catal. p. 244.
Wahlah kuddera, Russell, pi. 175.

B.xiii. D. 20-23. P. 12. V. G. A. 21-23. C. 15.

Length of head more than \, of pectoral ^ , of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \, of caudal ^
of total length. Height of head about fa of body &, of dorsal T'5, of anal & of total length.
Eyes— Diameter ^ of length of head, 1 diameter apart.

Mouth from gape to the extremity one-fifth of the total length : upper and lateral surface of
snout compressed. Lower jaw with a row of glands near its inferior margin. Head as in the
Belone caudimaculata, but the interorbital groove is wider and shallower. The maxilla extends
to beneath the anterior third of the orbit. The comparative size of the parts varies with age.

Teeth— Upper jaw with small sharp teeth disposed laterally along the margin of the side of
the jaw; they are some distance asunder, but become smaller towards the orbit: between them
and under the margin of the jaw are numerous sharp teeth.
Scales — On the head and opercles, scarcely perceptible.

Lateral Hue— Double; the superior passes along the upper third of the body, and
reaches the mesial line about the centre of the body, from whence it is continued on to the
caudal : the inferior line proceeds from near the under surface of the throat, and passes to slightly
below the anterior margin of the ventral, which it curves round, and beyond it passes to above
the anterior margin of the anal, from whence it proceeds direct to the centre of the caudal.

Fins-Pectoral arises close behind the opercle : ventral midway between the posterior extre-
mity of the pectoral and the centre of the anal : anal in the posterior third of the body, and the
dorsal rather behind the anal. The last ray of the anal almost touches the base of the caudal, and
the last rays of the dorsal extend nearly to the base of the caudal. Lower lobe of caudal the
longest. The anterior extremities of the dorsal and anal the highest.

Colours-Upper surface of the head and back green, with steel blue reflections, minutely
dotted with black, fading into silvery white on the abdomen. The side of the upper jaw of a dark
olive, of the lower silvery. A black line passes from the angle of the mouth along the base of
the teeth. Cheeks and opercles silvery. Membranes of the dorsal, caudal, and pectoral fins of a
light greenish grey, minutely dotted with black, especially at the margins. Anal and ventral
anteriorly white, dotted with black. Iris silvery, the margin of the orbit black. In young
specimens the colours vary, the upper surface is more of a yellowish green, there is a large black
spot on the opercle, and the lower jaw is also black : a narrow silvery greenish band passes
longitudinally above the lateral line. The posterior two-thirds of the dorsal is black, and there is
a lar^e black spot on the centre of the caudal.

Grows to two feet in length, and is found in the same localities as the Belone caudimaculata.
Habitat— Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia, China, and North Australia.

166 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Belone CANCILA.

Esox cancila, Ham. Buck. pp. 213, 380, pi. 37, f. 70 ; Guv. & Veil xviii. p. 455.
Belone Graii, Syhes, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1841, p. 367, pi. 63, f. 4; Jerdon, Madras

Journal, xv. p. 345.
Coahlan and Morrahloo, Mai,

B. x. D. 16-17. P. 11. V. 6. A. 16-17. C. 15.

Length of head nearly \, of pectoral fe, of caudal y^, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^
of total length. Height of head ^ , of body ^, of dorsal y^, of anal TT, of ventral ^ of total
length.

Byes — Oval, upper margins close to the profile, horizontal diameter y1^, vertical diameter -fe
of length of head, 6 horizontal diameters from end of snout, 1 horizontal diameter apart.

Body elongated, slightly compressed, and tapering towards the extremities.

Jaws elongated, depressed, and compressed, the lower ends in a soft symphysis, it is deep
at its base. Preopercle rather longer than high. Opercle forming the arc of a circle ; its anterior
margin vertical. No roughened elevation along the centre of the lower jaw, nor glands along its
external margin. The maxilla extends to below the anterior third of the orbit. Nostrils single,
opposite the antei'ior superior margin of the orbit, in a triangular depression with the base
behind.

Teeth — No lateral ones. A row of widely separated sharp conical teeth directed downwards
in each jaw, with an external series of villiform much the smallest in the mandibular

Fins — Pectoral commences a short distance behind the centre of the opercle ; ventral rather
nearer the anal than to the end of the pectoral ; anal in the posterior third of body ; and the dorsal
slightly behind it. Second and third rays of the dorsal the highest, upper margin of the fin
concave, the end of the last ray reaches the base of the caudal fin. The third ray of the anal the
longest : the upper margin concave : the termination of the last ray not quite extending to the
caudal. Caudal with rounded lobes, the lower being slightly the longest.

Scales — Small and deciduous, none on the opercles and cheeks.

Lateral line — Double, the upper one being at first in the superior third of the body, but it
gradually sinks, and passes along the central line of the body, but is very indistinct. The lower
branch commencing under the throat, passes straight along the lower fourth of the body parallel
with the abdomen, opposite the posterior end of the anal, it curves upwards to gain the centre of
the body, and from thence proceeds to the middle of the caudal fin.

Colours — Back greenish, abdomen silvery. A line resembling burnished silver, commences
at the upper part of the opercle, and passes direct to the upper part of the caudal fin ; at first it is
narrow, but opposite the dorsal it widens, and beyond it again decreases : on each side of the tail,
above and below the silver line, there are occasionally four irregular black spots. Caudal with a
black crescentic mark, a short distance from the commencement. Cheeks of burnished silver.
Eyes yellowish white ; bones greenish.

Found in the Kurriavanoor river, near Cochin. Said to be very destructive to smaU fish. It
does not appear to grow to more than fourteen inches in length.

Habitat — Fresh waters of India.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 167

Genus HEMIRAMPHUS, Cuvier.

Brauchiostegals, about twelve or thirteen. Body subcylindrical and elongated. Eyes lateral. Upper
jaw very short, formed by the intermaxillaries, the symphysis of the lower jaw extended into a long beak,
at upper and posterior portion of which beneath the upper jaw is the margin of the mouth. A single dorsal
situated in the posterior portion of the body opposite to an anal of a similar description. Ventral six-
rayed, anterior to the dorsal. Caudal generally lobed, the lower usually the longest. Teeth villiform m both
jaws in several rows. Scales of moderate size or large. Gill openings very wide. Air vessel large. No
csecal appendages.

Hemiramphus Reynaldi.

Hemieamphus Reynaldi, Cuv. & Val. xix. p. 39.
Morrul, Mai.

B. xii. D. 16. P. 12. V. 6. A. 15. C. 15. L. 1. 50-58. L. tr. 6-7.

Length of head excluding beak nearly \, including beak \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base
of dorsal 1 of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head fo of body h of dorsal T5> of
ventral TL, of anal -^ of total length.

Byes— Oval, superior margins close to profile. Horizontal diameter J, and vertical diameter ¥,
1 horizontal diameter to end of snout, f of a horizontal diameter apart in the centre, but further

posteriorly.

Body elongated, moderately compressed, head slightly depressed.

The intermaxillaries form an obtuse triangle, the base behind, the apex in front, rounded, and
its length a fourth less than its width at its base: a furrow passes longitudinally down its centre,
its edges are slightly raised, and its external margin is a little convex at its centre. The posterior
extremity of the maxilla reaches to opposite the anterior margin of the orbit. The width of the
mouth is a fourth greater than its length, and the length of the beak from the end of the inter-
maxillaries to the tip, is equal to the length from the base of the pectoral to the anterior extremity
of the mouth, consequently the end of the snout is midway between the base of the pectoral and
the tip of the beak : it is thin and straight. From the centre of the beak at its base, a ridge
arises which from its first third is continued along the upper surface of the beak in the form of a
groove as far as its tip. Interorbital space flat. Preopercle rectangidar, angle slightly produced.
Opercle a third higher than wide, and all the edges nearly straight. The openings of the nostrils
are placed in a shallow oval depression, in front and rather internal to the upper margms of the

orbit.

Teeth— Villiform, placed in close bands, wider in the mandibular than in the upper jaw.
Opposite the centre of the lower jaw there is a short edentulous interval where a ridge exists.

Fins— Pectoral arises a short distance posterior to, and on a level with, the superior margin
of the opercle : ventral commences midway between the anterior margin of the orbit and the
base of the caudal : anal arises the width of one scale nearer the caudal than it does to the ventral,
and is slightly behind the dorsal. Dorsal highest in front, upper margin rather concave : anal of
the same shape. Caudal lobed, the lower a third longer and much larger than the upper.

Scales — Deciduous, covering the body and summit of head.

Lateral line— Proceeds parallel to the abdomen, passing just above the ventral, and two scales
above the anal, from whence it reaches the centre of the fin by crossing the base of the upper ray
of the lower lobe.

168 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Colours — Silvery, greenish blue on the back, and whitish grey on the abdomen. The silver
band is quite straight, widest opposite the commencement of the dorsal fin. Dorsal and caudal
margined with blackish, and some minute black dots exist between the caudal rays.

Exceedingly common after the S. W. monsoon, and through the cold weather. Much
esteemed for eating by the Natives, and the roes highly prized by Europeans for curries. Grows
to eight inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar, Ceylon, and the tanks around Calcutta.

Hemiramphus xanthopterus.

Hemiramphus xanthopterus, Cuv. & Val. xix. p. 47.
? Hemiramphus tridentifer, Cantor, Catal. p. 249.

B. xii. D. 15. P. 13. V. 6. A. 16. C. 15. L. 1. 56. L. tr. 9.

Length of head to the end of intermaxillaries J, of beak from opening ^, of caudal ^, of
pectoral yp of dorsal ^, of anal tJq of total length. Height of head y1^, of body ^ of total length.

Eyes — Oval. Upper margins form part of the profile. Horizontal diameter j% and vertical
diameter y of length of head. Not quite 1 horizontal diameter apart, 1£ horizontal diameters from
the end of intermaxillaries.

Body elongated, subcylindrical ; head compressed and depressed.

Mouth formed by the intermaxillaries and a portion of the ruandibulse, its extended pro-
longation or beak being beyond the mouth : the exposed portion of the intermaxillaries form a
triangle, with the base behind, and having a slight longitudinal keel along its centre, with rather
raised edges : it opens something like the lid of a box. The posterior extremity of the maxilla
does not extend to beneath the anterior margin of the orbit. The mandibular portion of the
mouth is rather wide. The length of the mandibles from the end of the snout nearly equals the
distance from the posterior margin of the orbit to the end of the mouth, consequently the extremity
of the mouth is slightly nearer the posterior margin of the orbit than the end of the snout. In
front of the centre of the lower jaw the suture forms a ridge which proceeds a very short distance
and ends in rather a broad groove, which is continued along the whole of the upper surface of the
mandibles to about their extremity : the tip is fleshy. The interorbital space nearly flat. Pre-
opercle narrow and rectangular. Opercle large, the upper third of the posterior margin ending
in a rounded point. Posterior margins of orbits rather raised. Nostrils opposite the anterior
superior angle of the orbit in a depressed oval space, having raised edges. Intermaxillaries form
a very pointed angle at their junction.

Teeth — In a very wide band in both jaws, especially in the lower one and in the mesial
line, owing to the commencement of a ridge : the bands of the two sides are only connected
half the width of the band posteriorly. The internal teeth a little longer than the others.

Fins. — Dorsal commences a little behind the posterior third of the body : anal opposite dorsal ;
both fins of the same shape, highest in front, with their margins rather concave. Caudal not
deeply cleft, the lower lobe much the largest and longest.

Scales — On body, summit of head, and the base of the intermaxillaries.

Lateral line — Descends until close to the ventral fin, and then passing parallel to the abdomen,
it gradually ascends opposite the anterior end of the anal, and from thence passes to the base of
the fifth ray of the lower lobe, over which it crosses, and ascending over the next, is lost.

Colours — Silvery greenish-blue on the back, whitish on the abdomen. A silver band passes

THE I'Isiiks OF MALABAR. Hi;!

from opposite the commencement of the dorsal fin to the centre of the caudal. Tip of beafi of a
brilliant scarlet. Dorsal and caudal margined with black. Some fine black points below the
caudal rays.

Occasionally arrives in vast numbers at Cochin, and is captured at the mouth of the river, in
the backwater, and even in fresh water. Grows to about eight inches in length.

Habitat— Seas, estuaries, and sometimes fresh waters of Malabar and Malaysia.

Hemiramphus limbatus.
Hemieamphus limbatus, Guv. & Vol. xix. p. 44.

B. xii. D. 15. P. 12. V. 6. A. 13-15. C. 15. L. 1. 52. L. tr. 7.

Length of head excluding beak \, of head including beak f, of pectoral T'0, of caudal &, of
base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^ 0f total length. Height of head jfe of body T'r, of dorsal X ,
of ventral 5V/, of anal about ^ of total length.

Eyes— Oval, upper margins close to the profile. Horizontal diameter T3ff, vertical diameter ]
of length of head, 1 transverse diameter from end of snout, and nearly the same distance apart.

The body of the same character as in the previous specimens.

The intermaxillaries form a triangle, the base being behind and a third wider than it is long,
having a longitudinal ridge above, and a slight elevation along its margins : its anterior extremity
not quite pointed. The posterior extremity of the maxilla reaches half way from the angle of the
mouth to the orbit : the width at its gape slightly exceeds the length of the mouth. The length of
the beak from the end of intermaxillaries to its tip, equals the distance from the centre of the opercle
to the end of the intermaxillaries, consequently the anterior extremity of the mouth is midway
between the centre of the opercle and end of beak. Beak weak, and curving in its middle for one
third of its length. A very slight ridge at the symphysis, where the two portions of the lower jaw
join : a groove along its centre. Interorbital space flat. Preopercle rectangular. Opercle nearly
triangular, becoming pointed just above its centre, its width is nearly equal to its height. Nostrils
in very shallow oval depressions, at anterior superior margin of orbit.

Teeth— In villiform bands, widest in the upper, being narrow in the anterior portion of the
lower jaw, with a slight interval between those of the two sides.

Fins— Pectoral pointed, and arising just above the posterior angle of the opercle : dorsal oppo-
site the thirty-first scale, and slightly in advance of the anal: both fins are highest in front-
ventral midway between the posterior margin of the orbit and the base of the caudal. Caudal
with its posterior margin rounded, and its lower portion, which can scarcely be termed a lobe, the
longest.

Scales — As in the H. Reynaldi.

Lateral line — As in the H. Reynaldi.

Colours— Silvery, greenish blue on the back, and whitish grey on the abdomen. The silver
band is widest opposite the commencement of the dorsal fin, and quite straight, but rather indis-
tinct under the scales. Caudal and dorsal finely edged with black, small black points between
the rays. Intermaxillaries and mandibular black. A black mark along the branches of the lower
jaw. Pectoral, ventral, and anal colourless.

Habitat — Seas of India.

170 the fishes of malabar.

* Hemiramphus Georgii.
Hemiramphus Georgii, Cuv. & Vol. xix. p. 37, pi. 555 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 248.

B.xii. D. 15-17. P. 12. V. 6. A. 15. C. 15.

Length of head from apex of intermaxillaries yT, beak to angle of the mouth yy to f in the total
length. Height of body equals half the length of the head.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter apart.

The roof of the orbits being arched, occasions the middle of the orbit to appear excavated :
the depth at the occiput equals half the length of the head.

Teeth— The band of villiforrn ones on the intermaxillaries is very narrow at the angle of the
mouth, but gradually widens towards its apex : the inner row are somewhat larger than the
others. A single row in the lower jaw of very minute teeth, behind which the anterior half of the
mouth is lined with a black crescent- shaped membrane.

Fins — Pectorals five-eighths of the length of the head. Ventrals placed opposite the posterior
third of the distance between the occiput and the root of the caudal. Caudal moderately cleft ;
lower lobe slightly longer than the upper, and three-quarters as long as the head.

Colours — Greenish grey above, minutely dotted with black, particularly on the intermaxillaries
and on the occiput. Back and sides pale greenish grey, the margins of the scales minutely dotted
with black : along each side a shining silvery band, divided in the middle by the lateral line, and
edged above by a deep blue line : abdomen faint silvery white : opercles shining silvery, with steel-
blue reflections : lower jaw greenish grey, with a black marginal membrane : dorsal and caudal
pale greenish grey, marginal half dotted with black : rest of the fin diaphanous. Iris silvery :
orbital margin bluish black. — (Cantor.)

Grows to ten and a half inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar and Malaysia.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 171

Order ANACANTHINI.

Fam. GADID^E, Owen.
Gadoidei, pt. Cuvier.

Genus BREGMACEROS, Thompson.

Calloptilum, Richardson.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchise none. Body fusiform posteriorly compressed. Mouth
anterior and oblique. Eyes lateral. Two dorsal fins, the first consisting of an elongated ray arising from
the occiput, the second and the anal having each a central depressed portion almost forming a distinct
fin. Yentrals jugular, and long, consisting of -five or six rays. Teeth in jaws moveable, also teeth on vomer,
none on palate. Scales cycloid. Lateral line continuous. Grill openings very wide, the gill membranes
united beneath the throat but not attached to the isthmus. No air bladder or pyloric appendages.

Bregmaceros Macclellandi.

BregmacerosMacclellandi, Thompson, Chariest. Mag. Nat. History, 1840, iv. p. 184;
Gunther, Catal. iv. p. 368.

B. vii. D. 1 | 16 + X+15. P. 25. V. 5-6. A. 22+X+15. C. 15. L. 1. 64. L. tr. f .
Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal yT of the total length. Height of head \, of body -|,
of first dorsal ^T, of anal j2T of the total length.

Eyes — Oval : horizontal diameter -§, vertical diameter \ of the length of the head, J a hori-
zontal diameter from end of snout, and 1 diameter apart.

Body fusiform, posteriorly compressed. There is a slight rise in the profile from the snout to
the first dorsal fin, from whence it gradually sinks to the caudal. The abdominal profile is nearly
straight.

Mouth anterior, rather oblique, upper jaw slightly the longest, extending posteriorly to behind
the centre of the orbit. Mandibula rather concave. Opercle rounded.

Teeth — Villiform and moveable in jaws, a few on the vomer, but none on the palatine bones.

Fins — The first dorsal arises from the occiput in the form of a slender ray, which is rather
longer than the head. The second dorsal commences in the middle third of the total length, its
fourth ray the longest and the fin being highest in front, each ray is unbranched but arti-
culated, and very slender, the membrane is deeply notched : the succeeding ten rays are very
short and slender appearing almost like a distinct fin : whilst the last fifteen are lengthened and
extend nearly to the base of the caudal : the fin can be laid flat in a groove which exists on the
back. The pectoral is situated in the upper third of the body, and just posterior to the opercle,
its rays are articulated but unbranched. The anal is of much the same shape as the second dorsal.
The ventral which arises under the throat, consists of six rays, the outer three of which are elon-
gated so as to reach as far as about the twenty-first anal ray.

Scales — Cycloid, small.

Lateral line — Continuous.

Colours — Silvery, the back shaded with green. Occiput and upper half of pectoral black ; the
first half of the dorsal spotted with black.

Grows to about three inches in length, and is rare in Malabar.

Habitat — The mouths of rivers and Coasts of Malabar, Bengal, China, and the Philippine Islands.

z 2

RV

172 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Fam. PLEURONECTID.E, Flem.

Heterosomata, Bon.

Genus PSEUDOEHOMBUS, Sleeker.

Branchiostegals, seven : pseudobranchise. Body laterally compressed and very flat, one side coloured,
the other colourless or only spotted. Eyes placed on the left which is the upper side, and though the
bones on either side of the head are developed, they are not symmetrical. Mouth wide, cleft deep. Teeth
in each jaw in a single row of unequal sizes ; none on vomer or palate. The dorsal fin commences on the
snout and is continued along the upper profile nearly as far as the caudal fin : the anal continued most of
the extent of the lower profile, the rays in both fins are simple. Scales small. Lateral line with a strong
curve anteriorly. Gill membranes united below the throat. Gill rakers lanceolate. No air bladder.

PsEUDORHOMBUS EuSSELLII.

Platessa Eussellii, Gray, 111. Ind. Zool. pi. 94, f. 2 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 214.
Pseudorhombus Eussellii, Giinther, Catal. iv. p. 424.

B. vii. D. 71. P. 12. V. \. A. 59. C. 17. L. 1. 75.

Length of head § , of pectoral T?f , of base of dorsal J, of base of anal nearly ^ of total length.
Height of body §, of head \, of dorsal j1^, of ventral j^, of anal TVj of total length.

Eyes — Lower orbit slightly in advance of the upper one. Horizontal diameter \, and vertical
diameter \ of length of head. Margins of orbits closely approximating and near to end of snout.

Body elliptical, and sinistral.

Mouth forming a very oblique curve with the lower jaw, which is the longest. The posterior
extremity of the maxilla extends to under the centre of the orbit. Preopercle slightly convex
vertically, lower margin oblique two-thirds as long as posterior one, angle rounded. Opercle
ending in a soft point. Interorbital space a mere ridge. Gill rakers compressed, lanceolate^
slightly apart, and half as long as the orbit. Posterior aperture of the nostrils in front of the
orbit, and larger than the anterior one.

Teeth — Conical, pointed, and directed slightly inwards, about six in each side of the lower
jaw, with some small ones posteriorly. About six also on the anterior portion of the upper jaw
having a row of smaller ones between and internal, and posteriorly some fine villiform ones. None
on vomer and palate.

Fins — Dorsal commences just above the anterior margin of the upper orbit, and extends
nearly to the base of the caudal. The left ventral fin nearer the gill openings than the anal,
arising under the centre of opercle and reaching as far as the second anal ray : its two first rays are
unbranched ; the right ventral is situated further back. Pectoral close to the opercle, and rather
below the centre of the body, its two upper rays are unbranched, its posterior extremity is rather
rounded. Anal arises under the pectoral, and is continued close to the caudal. The longest dorsal
rays are in the posterior third of the fin, all excepting the last three are undivided, they project
slightly beyond the end of the membrane. The posterior five anal rays are branched. Caudal
pointed in the centre.

Scales — Large, ctenoid, and extending over the body, opercles, cheeks, and to the end of the
maxilla. They are smaller on the cheeks, the anterior surface of the body and near the base of
the dorsal fin. There is a row along the anterior margin of each ray smaller in size but otherwise
ctenoid, like those on the rest of the body. Some also over the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins.

Lateral line — Forms a strong curve, equal to half its length, and extending to opposite the
posterior fourth of the pectoral, it then proceeds slightly downwards, but soon passes quite hori-

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 173

zontally to the centre of the caudal on to which fin it is continued. The depth between the lateral
line-just posterior to the end of its curve-and the anal fin, equals the distance from the anterior
extremity of the snout to the centre of the base of the pectoral.

Colours— Left side reddish brown, with the base of each scale rather darker than its margin,
and numerous black spots irregularly scattered over the body. Opercles and anterior third of the
abdomen of a dull neutral tint ; fins finely dotted with brown. Iris silvery, brown along its upper
margin. Left side whitish or stained with light brown, bluish anteriorly.

Grows to upwards of a foot in length. Not common. Is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat-From the east coast of Africa through the Seas of India, Malaysia, and China to
Australia.

Genus SYNAPTURA, Cantor.
Achiroides, Bleeker.

iEsOPIA, EURYGLOSSA et EURYPLEURA, Kaup.

Branchiostegaksix: pseudobranchia. Body compressed, flat, right side coloured. Eyes on right
side, the upper in advance of the lower. Cleft of mouth narrow, twisted round to the left side. .No
dilated nostril on left side. Teeth small only on the left side, none on vomer or palate. Vertical fins
confluent. Pectoral fin on both sides. Scales ctenoid, small. Lateral line straight.

Synaptura foliacea.

Solea foliacea, Richardson, Ich. China, p. 279.
Synaptura foliacea, Giinther, Catal. iv. p. 481.
Sappatee, Mai.

B. vi. D. 62. P. 7. V. 6. A. 46. C. 15. L. 1. 75.

Length of head \, of right pectoral &, of caudal f%, of base of dorsal f , of base of anal § of
total length. Height of head \, of body j, of dorsal &, of anal ft, of ventral & of total length.

Eyes-Upper eye \ a diameter in advance of the lower: lower orbit just above the level of
the angle of the mouth, to which half of it is posterior. Diameter \ of length of head, If diameters
from end of snout, and nearly 1 diameter apart.

Mouth cleft to beneath the posterior extremity of the superior orbit, it is narrow and twisted
round to the left side. Upper jaw the longest, overlapping the lower. Interorbital space concave.
From the anterior angle of the upper orbit is a raised ridge, which is continued two-thirds of the
distance to the end of the snout, terminating just above the upper lip. Snout sharp. The poste-
rior aperture of the nostrils a little in front of the lower orbit, the anterior a little before it and
tubular. Lower lip of right side fleshy.

Teeth — Fine, and only apparent on the left side.

Fms— Dorsal commences over the centre of the superior orbit, and terminates close to the
base of the caudal; the anal arises just behind the ventral, and is also continued to the base of the
caudal. Right pectoral short rounded, and equal to a third the length of the head ; left pectoral
rather shorter. Caudal wedge-shaped. Ventral short.

Scales-Strongly ctenoid, extending over the body, head, dorsal, anal, and caudal fins : largest
in size along each side of the lateral line nearly as far as the head, but for the external fourth of the
body very much smaller.

174 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Lateral line — Composed of single well developed tubes. It passes straight from the head to
the centre of the caudal along the mesial hne, and is continued on the caudal fin to its posterior
extremity. Interorbital space scaled.

Colours — Leaden above, fins dark blackish grey, under or left surface dirty white.

Grows to six inches or more in length, and is good eating.

Habitat — Malabar and China.

Genus PLAGUSIA, pt. Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, six : pseudobranchise. Body compressed, flat, the left side coloured. Mouth rather
narrow and unsymnietrical, the upper part of the snout produced backwards, covering the mandibular ;
lips on the left side with tentacles. One nostrfl on the left side before the angle of the lower orbit.
Teeth minute, and only on the right side, none on vomer or palate. Vertical fins confluent. No pectorals.
Gill opening narrow. Scales small, ctenoid. Lateral line on left side, double or triple.

Plagusia BILINEATA.

Pleueonectes bilineatus, Bloch, pi. 188.

Jeeeee Potoo, E. Russell, pi. 74.

Plagusia bilineata, Cantor, Catal. p. 227 ; Giinther, Catal. iv. p. 492.

B. vi. D. 96. A. 73. C. 8. L. 1. 85.

Length of head § of total length. Height of body §, of dorsal j3^ , of anal ^3 of total length.

Eyes — Situated on the upper surface of the head, the left one being behind the centre of the
head, just above the posterior extremity of the opening of the mouth, and the lower orbit posterior
to the upper one. Diameter j^ of length of head.

Body elongate and lanceolate. Muzzle bluntly pointed. A single nostril in front of the lower
eye close to the lip. Lips fleshy.

Teeth — The left side of the jaw toothless. The teeth in the right side are fine and setaceous.

Fins — Dorsal commences before the orbits, the fifth ray being over the upper eye; the
anal arises a short distance posterior to the opercle, and both fins are joined to the caudal, which
is pointed : the points of the rays project shghtly above the membrane. Left ventral situated at
the gill opening and above the anal.

Scales — Ctenoid.

Lateral fine — Commences at the muzzle, and proceeds straight to the upper margin of the
opercle, where it ascends shghtly, then again bends downwards to opposite the commencement of
the second third of the body, from whence it proceeds nearly straight to the centre of the caudal.
Above the preopercle it gives an oblique ascending branch to the second lateral line, the anterior
branch of which commences at the snout, ascends to close to the anterior margin of the dorsal,
from whence it continues a short distance below it to nearly the base of the caudal. There are
fifteen rows of scales between the upper and lower lateral line.

Colours — Left side pale reddish brown. Scales with rather iridescent reflections. Opercles
with a bluish tinge. Fin membrane light brown : rays buff. Iris golden round the pupil, the
rest blackish lilac. The right side is brownish white, opercles and over anterior part of abdomen
bluish yellow.

Grows to nine inches in length, and is very good eating.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, and Malaysia.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 175

Order PHYSOSTOMI.
Sub-Order SILUEIDJ5.

Fam. SILUROIDEI, Bleeker.
Sub-Fam. BAGRIFORMES, Bleeker.
Group BAGRINI, Bleeker.
Sub-Group ARII, Bleeker.

Genus NETUMA, Bleeker.
Arius, pt. Cuv. & Val.

Branchiostegals, five or six. Opercular bones with moveable articulations. No lateral groove on the
head : bones on summit of head granulated, roughened, and covered with very thin skin. Mouth anterior :
the upper jaw generally the longest. Eyes with free orbital margin. Cirri six, one maxillary and two
mandibular pairs. Nostrils approximating, the posterior provided with a valve. Teeth in jaws villiform ;
also present (usually villiform) on vomer and palate, disposed in six patches, which may be either distinct
or confluent : four of these patches form an anterior row, two of them being on the vomer, whilst the pos-
terior row is composed of one pair, which are behind the internal portion of the anterior palatine row.
Two dorsals, the first with one strong serrated spine and seven rays j it is situated above or before the
ventrals : second dorsal adipose, well developed or moderate. Pectoral spine strong and serrated. Caudal
forked or emarginate. An air bladder.

NETUMA NETUMA.

Arius netuma, Cuv. & Val. xiv. p. 438, pi. 417 ; Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 292.'

B. vi. D. \ | 0. P. TL V. 6. A. 19. C. 17.

Length of head \, of pectoral J, of caudal \, of base of dorsal ^, of base of adipose dorsal \, of
base of anal \ of the total length. Height of head £, of body §, of first dorsal \, of second dorsal ^
of ventral -^, of anal | of the total length.

Eyes — Oval, situated in the anterior half of the head: horizontal diameter ^3, vertical
diameter Jj- in length of head, 2 horizontal diameters from end of snout, 3 horizontal diameters
apart.

Gape of mouth wide and semi-elliptical, upper jaw rather the longest : the maxillary pair of
cirri extend to the root of the pectoral, and the two pairs of mandibular two-thirds the length of
the maxillary. Opercular bones roughened in lines, shoulder bones in numerous small circular or
oval depressions : the whole of the upper surface of the head nodulated as far forwards as orbits.
Occipital process broader at its base than it is long, slightly keeled along its centre : basal
bone of dorsal spine strong, the central longitudinal groove widest opposite the posterior
margin of orbit, but does not extend much beyond the posterior margin of preopercle,

170

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

where the raised longitudinal keel of the occipital process commences. Nostrils lar°-e approxi-
mating, and midway between orbit and snout.

O O

leeth — In intermaxillaries sharp, in a straight band of several rows, and which are rather
smaller in the lower jaws. Those on vomer and palate form two patches on either end of the

mesial line, the internal pair being small and level with the front
portion of the large patches : the external largest portions are each
evidently formed of two confluent patches, a long anterior one and
a short posterior one behind the inner portion of the anterior patch :
thus the vomero-palatine teeth may be considered to be three
patches on either side more or less confluent with one another.

^ms — The dorsal fin commences opposite to the posterior third of the pectoral : ventral arises
midway between the centre of the orbit and the base of the caudal : the anal arises nearer the end
of the pectoral than it does to the base of the caudal. Dorsal spine very strong, granulated in
front, serrated in its upper posterior half, it and the pectoral spine are of equal length, the latter
also being granulated in front and serrated in its upper third, whilst posteriorly it is strongly
denticulated : the length of these spines equals the distance from the posterior margin of the orbit
to the end of the opercle. The dorsal rays are two thirds as high as the body. The caudal is
lobed, the superior lobe being slightly the longest.

Lateral line — First ascends, opposite the first dorsal spine it bends downwards, and above the
ventral it becomes straight ; at the base of the caudal it divides into two branches, the upper
crossing over the base of three, the lower of four caudal rays : a second raised fine passes from the
commencement of the last, and downwards to the base of the anal fin. The lateral line consists
of raised, long and wide parallel tubes decreasing in size posteriorly.

Colours — Brownish silvery, slightly plumbaceous on the back. Head bronzed. Fins greyish
with a yellowish tinge.

Grows to a large size, and is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — Red Sea, and Seas and estuaries of India and Burmah.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

177

Genus ARIUS, Cuv. and Val.

Branchiostegals, from five to six. Opercular bones with moveable articulations. No lateral groovi
mi head: bones on summit of head rugose, with very thin skin. Mouth anterior, the upper jaw generally
the longest. Eyes with a free orbital margin. Cirri six, one maxillary pair and two mandibular pairs.
Nostrils approximating, the posterior provided with a valve. Teeth in jaws villiform, and in two distant
patches on the palatines. Two dorsals, the first inserted above or before the ventrals, and with one Btrong
serrated or roughened spine and six or seven rays: second dorsal adipose, well developed or moderate.
Anal of moderate length. Pectoral spine strong and serrated. Caudal forked or emarginate. An air
Madder.

Arius subrostratus.
Arius subrostratus, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 02 ; Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 293.

B. vi. D. J | 0. P. JL v. 6. A. 20. C. 17.

Length of head t3q, of pectoral \, of base of first dorsal TV, of base of second dorsal 2V> of base
of anal j\, of caudal A of total length. Height of head £, of body \, of dorsal \, of anal ^ of
total length.

Eyes— Diameter \ of length of head, f of a diameter apart, and nearly 2 diameters from end

of snout.

Mouth spatuliforni, extending across the anterior surface of head, its depth nearly equals a
third of its width. Maxillary cirri rather fleshy at their origin, and do not extend so far as the
orbit, whilst the external mandibular ones are not quite so loug as, and
the internal half the length of the external ones. Upper profile of head
granulated, occipital process rather longer than broad, moderately keeled along
its centre, and with a rounded extremity, where it articulates with a narrow
nasal bone, which is convex anteriorly, and very rough. Central groove of
head long and narrow, widest opposite the orbits, becoming quite sharp
at both extremities ; anteriorly it extends as far as the snout, and posteriorly
to opposite the end of the opercles. The skidl is roughened by raised
nodules, in some places passing in lines as far forwards as the orbits, and
laterally over summit of opercles. The shoulder bones are rough with small
depressions. Opercle terminates posteriorly in a sub-acute angle, roughened
by raised lines and depressions. Nostrils large, circular, and approximating,
both situated in the anterior third of the snout, and at equal distances from the central line of
the head and the margin of the snout.

Teeth— Villiform in both jaws. On intermaxillaries the band is more than a fourth
^ as wide as long. No teeth on vomer. In palate they are in two oval patches, placed

wide apart, and diverging posteriorly.
Fins— First dorsal commences opposite the posterior fourth of the pectoral: ventral midwaj
between the base of the pectoral and the posterior extremity of the anal : anal between the posterior
extremity of the pectoral and the centre of the base of the dorsal : adipose dorsal situated over
the posterior half of anal. Dorsal fin pointed, its spine long, equal to the distance from the centre
of the orbit to the end of the snout: it is flattened laterally and lineated, nodulated anteriorly, becoming
almost serrated in its upper three fourths, the serratures below being much less developed than those
above : it terminates in a soft point; the first ray does not extend so far as the end of the soft

2 A

ll If

178 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

termination of the spine, and the last ray is only a third the length of the spine. Pectoral spine
very slightly shorter than that of the dorsal, laterally compressed and slightly roughened in lines :
it is nodulated externally, and semi-serrated in its external half : internally it is serrated for its
whole extent : it ends in a soft point. Anal with the sixth or seventh ray the longest, its external
margin is rather concave. Base of soft dorsal equal to about half that of the anal, it is higher
than wide. Caudal lobed, but not deeply : fin rather expanded : the distance between the end of
the anal and commencement of caudal equals the base of the anal.

Lateral line — In pairs of short parallel tubes, at first curving upwards, below the dorsal spine
it begins to sink, and from opposite the end of the ventral it passes direct to the centre of the
caudal, where it divides into two branches, the superior passing upwards, crossing the base of two
rays, and the inferior downwards crossing the base of three.

Colours — Brilliant silvery blue as far as the lateral bne : silvery white below : a golden gloss
over the cheeks. Fins yellowish : very fine black spots on the tip of the dorsal, over the adipose
dorsal and the caudal.

Common, and is captured principally during the S. W. monsoon. Is eaten by the Natives.
Grows to a foot in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

* ArIUS ROSTRATUS.
ARIUS ROSTRATUS, CllV. & Val. XV. p. 63.

D. £ | 0. P. iV V. 7. A. 18. C. 18.

Length of head \ of the body excluding the caudal fin, measured to the summit of the
interparietal prominence it is f . The distance from the end of the mouth to the angle of the
frontal is half the length from the end of the snout to the angle of the opercle, which is more than
obtains in the Ar. subrostratus.

The interorbital space is more flat than in the last, and the central longitudinal groove on the
head straighter and longer, whilst the interparietal ridge is narrower and its granulations stronger.

The maxillary cirrus does not extend so far as the projecting angle of the frontal : the others
are a third or half shorter.

The shoulder bones are smooth and without any striae or granulations.

Teeth — Are villiform and fine in the jaws, and on a very small patch on the palatines they are
blunt and granulated.

Colours — Plumbaceous, blackish on the back and silvery below.

Habitat — Allepey in Malabar.

Arius ccelatus.

Arius ccelatus, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 66 ; Bleeker, Atl. Ich. ii. p. 35, t. 53 ; Gunther,

Catal. v. p. 158.
Arius ;equibarbis, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 68.
Arius granosus, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 69.

B. v. D. }. | 0. P. J, V. 6. A. 19. C. 15.

Length of head \, of pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of dorsal j^, of base of second dorsal T]5,
of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head \ , of body I, of first dorsal \, of second dorsal
,',,, of anal j^, of ventral j of total length.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. J 79

Eyes — Oval, situated midway between the posterior extremity of the opercles and the end <>\'
snout. Horizontal diameter j , vertical diameter £ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout,
- diameters apart.

Mouth wide, upper jaw rather the longest. Maxillary cirrus extends to half the length "I' tin-
pectoral, the two mandibular cirri to its base. Opercle striated in rough lines. Central longi-
tudinal groove of head broad, extending in front to the snout, and behind to opposite the posterior
extremity of the opercle. Occipital process longitudinally keeled, narrow, one and a fourth times
as high as wide, basal bone narrow, both covered with nodules — most apparent in the adult— as
is also the skull as far forwards as the orbits, and laterally as the opercles. Shoulder bone also
similarly roughened. Nostrils, the posterior the largest, oval, and with a valve : the anterior
round, close to the anterior margin of the snout.

Teeth — In intermaxillaries villiform and numerous in a band about a sixth as wide as long, and
which is rather expanded at its extremity. They are also villiform in the mandibles. In either
palatine bone is an irregularly triangular patch containing numbers of vilhform teeth, they are
nearer together anteriorly, than posteriorly.

Fins — Dorsal commences opposite the centre of the pectoral ; ventral midway between the
snout and base of caudal : anal midway between the base of pectoral and the posterior extremity
of the lower lobe of the caudal. Dorsal pointed, spine in the adult much thicker below than
above, but weaker in the young ; anteriorly granulated in its basal half, and semi-
serrated in its upper portion : serrated posteriorly, laterally compressed and rough : its rays
rapidly decrease in length to the last ; its spine equals the distance from the posterior extremity of
the opercle to the posterior extremity of the anterior nostril. Pectoral spine rather shorter and not
so strong as the dorsal, it is laterally compressed, roughened anteriorly, and serrated posteriorly.
The sixth anal ray the longest, its external margin concave. Caudal deeply lobed.

Lateral line — Consists of short parallel longitudinal tubes. First it rises slightly to the upper
fourth of the body, opposite the first dorsal spine it curves downwards, and then nearly above the
commencement of the anal it proceeds straight : at the base of the caudal it divides into tw< >
branches, the upper crossing the base of three rays, and the lower the base of two.

Air vessel of a silvery tint, with a thick fibrous covering, and very adherent. The lining-
membrane is very thin.

Colours — In the adult steel blue, with a gloss of golden. Adipose fin black, with its posterior
margin yellow. Dorsal, anal, and caudal grey, finely spotted with minute black points, as is alsi i
the under surface of head and abdomen. Upper surface of head blackish. The young have no
black spot to the adipose dorsal.

Grows to eleven inches or more.

Habitat — Seas of India, Burmah, and Malaysia.

Arius GAGORA.

Pimelodus gagora, Ham. Bach. pp. 167, 376, pi. 10, f. 54.
Arius gagora, Ctw. & Vol. xv. p. 99 ; Gunther, Catal. v. p. 168.

B. v. D. J | 0. P. ioJrr- V. G. A. 18-19. C. 15. Vert. if.

Length of head f , of caudal T^-, of base of first dorsal ^j, of base of second dorsal ,-',;, of base
of anal ^ of total length. Height of head f.., of body |, of first dorsal J, of anal ' of total
length.

2 a 2

180 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Eyes Oval and situated in the anterior half of the head. Horizontal diameter ^, vertical

diameter ) of length of head, 2 diameters from end of snout, 2 J diameters apart.

Head broader than high, rather flattened above and its width equal to three quarters of its

length.

Snout obtuse, opening of mouth transverse, its cleft equals half the distance to the anterior
margin of the orbit, upper jaw the longest. Opercle radiated, with some irregular roughened lines
crossing the radiations. Central longitudinal groove rather shallow anteriorly, but deep poste-
riorly : widest opposite the posterior margin of the orbits, passing anteriorly as far as to opposite
the posterior nostril, and posteriorly to the opposite posterior end of the opercles. Occipital
process longitudinally keeled, as high as wide, its superior extremity rather convex where it joins
the basal bone of the dorsal fin, which is rather broad, and as well as the whole of the occipital
process is covered with raised nodules, which extend nearly as far forwards as the orbit, and down
towards the shoulder. Nostrils approximating, situated in the anterior half of the distance between
the orbit and the end of snout ; the anterior one circular, the posterior crescent-shaped and covered
by a valve. Shoulder bone covered with round and oval depressions. Maxillary cirri reach to the
posterior extremity of opercle. There are two pairs of mandibular cirri extending as far as the
base of the pectoral or slightly further.

Teeth — By an evident misprint, Hamilton Buchanan states, that the palatine teeth are sharp
and those in the jaw granular, which statement should be reversed. The teeth in the inter-
maxillaries are in a sharp crowded band, about a fourth as wide as long : in the lower jaw they are
also sharp and crowded. The palatine teeth are rounded, and placed like a pavement, in two large
rhomboidal patches, converging behind, but rather more widely separated in front.

Fins — Dorsal commences opposite the middle of the pectoral, and the ventral midway between
the angle of the mouth and the centre of the base of the caudal : the anal arises about midway
between the posterior extremity of the pectoral, and the base of the caudal : the adipose dorsal
is situated over the last half of anal. Dorsal fin pointed, spine strong, equal to the distance from
the posterior nostril to the posterior extremity of the opercle, it is flattened, roughened by lines
laterally, and extended into a soft point longer than the rays ; its spine is nodulated anteriorly,
and serrated in its upper half : also serrated posteriorly. Pectoral spine equal to the distance
from the anterior angle of the orbit, to the posterior extremity of the opercle, it is shorter than
that of the dorsal, and ends in a soft point : it is flattened and roughened in lines laterally, and
serrated in its whole anterior and posterior extents. The sixth anal ray is the highest, and the
external margin of the fin is slightly concave. Caudal lobed, and extended laterally, so that its
posterior margin is semicircular.

Lateral line — At first curves slightly upwards, opposite the dorsal spine bends downwards to
opposite the commencement of the anal, from whence it proceeds direct to the base of the caudal,
where it divides into two branches, the upper one crossing over the three rays above it, and the
lower one over the bases of the three rays below.

Colours — Back of a dusky bluish purple, which becomes almost white below the lateral line,
the whole shining with silvery reflections. Dorsal, anal, pectoral, and caudal finely and minutely
dotted with small black points, as is also the abdomen : ventral, anal, and caudal stained with red.
Adipose fin with a large blackish spot.

Not uncommon. Eaten by the lower classes. Grows to three feet in length.
Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 181

Genus OSTEOGENIOSUS, Bleeker.

Branehiostegals, five. Opercular bones with moveable articulations. No lateral groove ou head :
luiiies on summit of head granulated, and covered with a very thin skin. Mouth anterior, very wide, the
upper jaw generally the longest. Cirri consisting of one bony maxillary pair. Nostrils approximating,
the posterior provided with a valve. Teeth in jaws villiform : on palate obtusely conical, in two oblong
widely separated patches. Two dorsals, the first with a strong serrated spine and seven rays, it is placed
before the ventrals : second dorsal adipose, small. Pectoral spine strong and serrated. Caudal forked or
emarginate, Air bladder present.

OSTEOGENIOSUS MILITARIS.

Silurus militaris, Linn. Sys. Nat. i. p. 503.

Arius militaris, Cuv. & Vol. xv. p. 114, pi. 430 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 259.

Osteogeniosus militaris, Bleeker, Atl. Ich. iv. p. 46 ; Gunther, Catal. v. p. 181.

B. v. D.i|0. P. to-Vt- v-6- A. 20-23. C. 15. Vert. Jf .

Length of head £, of pectoral J, of caudal ^, of base of first dorsal ^3, of base of second
dorsal y\r, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head \, of body more than \, of first
dorsal §, of second dorsal j^, of ventral \, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Oval. Horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter jq of length of head, 2 diameters from
end of snout, 3£ diameters apart.

Body broadest opposite the first dorsal. Width of head nearly twice its height, width of
interorbital space equal to half the length of the head.

Gape of mouth extends nearly across the end of the head, which is obtuse, and cleft half
way from the snout to the orbit. Lower jaw slightly the shortest. Central longitudinal groove
having its widest portion not quite midway between the snout and first dorsal, it rapidly narrows
superiorly, but much more gradually inferiorly ; it is of a lanceolate shape, extending from the
snout nearly to the base of the occipital process. Occipital process nearly three times as high as
broad, roughened in longitudinal lines, and extending as far as the basal bone of the first dorsal
fin. Between the upper end of the central groove of the head and the base of the occipital process,
there are some very distinct elevated nodules, external to which are roughened lineated
elevations. Upper surface of orbits covered by a fleshy curtain. Nostrils large, approximating,
situated near the snout, the anterior round close to the margin of snout, the posterior one oval.
Maxillary barbel, long, flexible, compressed, and furrowed, becoming fine at its external point,
and extending slightly beyond the centre of the pectoral fin : from its posterior margin near its
root, extends a small triangular membrane, which is so short, that the cirrus cannot be extended
at a right angle to the head.

Teeth — In the upper jaw in a band one-third as wide as long, not reaching the angle of the
mouth, but terminating near the root of the bony maxillary cirrus : they are small, placed close
together, and curved. In the lower jaw they are of the same description, but extend further
laterally, whilst there are none opposite the symphysis. On the palate they are obtusely conical,
placed in two large rhomboidal patches, wide apart, but converging posteriorly.

Fins — First dorsal commences over the posterior extremity of the pectoral spine : ventral
opposite the posterior end of the dorsal : anal midway between the base of the pectoral and the
posterior extremity of the centre of the caudal : adipose dorsal opposite the centre of the anal.

182 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

First dorsal spine laterally compressed, serrated on both sides in its upper third, the serratures
on the posterior margin being the strongest : it is also roughened anteriorly to its base : its rays
are longer than its spines, the posterior of which are the shortest. Pectoral spine rather shorter
than that of the dorsal, it is also compressed, serrated on both sides of its external third, and
rugose along the rest of its outer margin. Axial with the fifth ray the longest, from whence they
rapidly decrease to the last. Caudal lobed, but not deeply. Adipose dorsal twice as long as wide.

Lateral line — Proceeds straight to opposite the commencement of the first dorsal, then
obliquely downwards to opposite the commencement of the ventral ; from thence it takes an un-
dulating course to the centre of the caudal where it divides into two branches, one passing
obliquely upward, crossing over the base of three rays, and ending between them and the next ;
the lower branch takes the same course downwards over the lower lobe of the caudal.

Colours— Of a beautiful leaden silvery tint on the upper surface of the body and sides, which
fades into a silvery white on the abdomen and chest. The first dorsal has a slight pinkish tinge,
and is stained darker on its margin. Adipose dorsal slate colour, darkest at its margins. Caudal
pinkish, stained with grey posteriorly. Maxillary cirri, and snout rose-coloured. Pectoral,
ventral, and anal also of a rose colour. Eye of a rosy tint.

Dr. Jerdon states, that the air vessel " yields a coarse isinglass, which is exported to Bombay :"
and Cantor observes that he believes in the Straits " their air vessels are preserved."

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Burmah, and Malaysia.

Genus BATRACHOCEPHALUS, Bleeker.

Branchiostegals, five. Head broad, depressed. Opercular bones articulated and moveable. Summit
of head granulated. Mouth very wide, anterior, cleft extending to under eyes. Lower jaw the longest.
Nostrils approximating, the posterior provided with a valve. Eyes with a free orbital margin. Cirri, one
pair of mandibular, fine and rudimentary. Teeth in jaws conical, with rounded summits, and placed in two
bands with a short interspace: abroad longitudinal band on either palate; none on the vomer. Two
dorsals, the first with one strong serrated spine and seven rays : it is situated before the ventrals : second
dorsal adipose, and short. Pectoral spine strong, serrated. Anal fin short. Caudal forked or emarginate.
Gill membranes united under the throat without a notch. Air bladder present.

BATRACHOCEPHALUS MINO.

Ageneiosus mino, Ram. Buck. pp. 158, 375.

Batrachocephalus mino, Bleeker, Atl. Ich. iv. p. 48, t. 65, f. i. ; Giinther, Catal. v.
p. 182.

B. v. D. j J 0. P. i V. 6. A. 20. C. 17.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal ^, of base of first dorsal ^4, of base of second
dorsal -^f, of base of anal £ of total length. Height of head J-, of body § , of first dorsal -J, of
second dorsal y^, of ventral ^, of anal ) of total length.

Eyes — Oval. Horizontal diameter f , vertical diameter J in length of head, § of a diameter
from end of snout, 1-J- diameters apart.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 183

Body widest opposite the opcrcles, profile rises to the first dorsal, and from thence gradually
sinks to the caudal. Abdominal surface more convex than that of the back.

Gape of mouth extends across the front of tho head, and its cleft to beneath the posterior third
of the orbit. Lower jaw rather the longest, roughened below. Central longitudinal groove on
head lanceolate, widest opposite the posterior extremity of the orbit ; extending anteriorly to the
snout, posteriorly to midway between the snout and the base of the occipital process. Occipital
process rugose, as wide at the base as it is high, and extending to the basal bone of the first
dorsal. Sides of head roughened. Opercles slightly lineated, and covered with small round de-
pressions. Apertures of nostrils circular, approximating, the posterior one covered by a valve,
close to the anterior superior angle of the orbit, and the anterior one situated just in front of it.
Two short mandibular cirri exist, equal in length to a fourth of the diameter of the eye. Shoulder
bones almost naked, marked with depressions. Basal bone of dorsal spine crescent-shaped, and
narrow.

Teeth — In upper jaw in from four to five rows, with long rather obtuse heads, the two anterior
rows — which contain the largest teeth — separated by a short interspace from three posterior ones.
The outer band of the upper jaw extends furthest laterally. Teeth in lower jaw the same as in
the* upper : those in the palate rather smaller but of the same description, placed in two straight
widely separated patches.

Fins — First dorsal arises opposite the middle of the pectoral : ventral midway between the
snout and the posterior extremity of the lower lobe of the caudal : anal opposite end of ventral :
adipose dorsal over the fifth anal ray. The first spine of the dorsal is equal to the distance from
the angle of the mouth to the posterior extremity of the bony opercle : it is laterally compressed and
not quite so high as the first ray : also serrated posteriorly in the upper half, and anteriorly rugose
in its whole extent ; the rays decrease in length from the first to the last. The adipose dorsal is
one and a half times as long as wide. Pectoral spine compressed, stronger, and one sixth longer
than that of the dorsal, serrated interiorly, rugose in its whole extent externally. Ventral rounded.
Anal with the fifth ray the longest, from which they decrease to the last. Caudal lobed, the lower
lobe the longest.

Lateral line — Gradually sinks to opposite the base of the anal, being almost concave above,
and from thence it proceeds direct to the base of the caudal, where it divides into two branches,
the upper of which crosses over the base of the two rays above, and then goes direct to the end of
the caudal, the lower branching downwards in the same manner.

Colours — Upper surface of head and body silvery, becoming white on the abdomen. Dorsal
dark grey, tipped with black. Superior half of the upper lobe of the caudal black. Pectoral with
a slightly greyish tint : other fins yellowish. Eyes golden.

By no means rare at Cochin, especially in the cold months. Grows to a foot and a half in
length, but is not esteemed for eating, although the lower classes of Natives employ it as food.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

184 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Sub-Group BAGRI, Bleeker.
Genus HARA, Blyik.

Branchiostegals, ten. Head broad, depressed. Opercular bones articulated and moveable. A sepa-
rate bone between basal bone of dorsal fin and end of occipital process : in adults an interspace between
tlie end of occipital process and anterior extremity of intermediate bone, which is not apparent in the
young : these bones and summit of head granulated or rough. Eyes without free orbital margins, below the
skin. Mouth wide, anterior. Cirri eight : one pair arises at posterior nasal orifice which is some distance
apart from the anterior which is tubular : one maxillary pair, widest at their basal halves, and two pairs
of mandibular ones. Teeth villiform in intermaxillaries and lower jaw, and an uninterrupted band across
vomer and palate. First dorsal with one sharp spine — sometimes denticulated — and seven rays, it is inserted
before the ventral which has six rays. Adipose dorsal longer than the anal, which last is short. Pectoral
spine strongly denticulated. Caudal emarginate or forked. Interbranchial membrane deeply cleft. Air
bladder present.

Hara Malabarica. Plate XIII. Fip-. 3.

B. x. D. } | 0. P. l V. 6. A. 10. C. 18.

Length of head T2T, of pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal \, of base of second
dorsal from ^ to f, of base of anal -f2T of total length. Height of head \, of body A, of first
dorsal -fa, of ventral ^, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Close to profile below the skin, diameter § of length of head, 1^ diameters from end of
snout, 1| diameters apart.

Form of body compressed, head broad and strongly depressed, its width being equal to
the height of the body. There is a slight rise from the snout to opposite the orbits, from whence
the upper profile is nearly straight : the abdominal profile is more convex than that of the back.

Mouth anterior, gape nearly four times as wide as its cleft which does not extend so far as to
beneath the orbits. The upper surface of the head is granulated and rather convex transversely,
with a longitudinal central groove, extending from opposite the posterior extremity of the opercle
to the snout, it is widest between the orbits. The occipital process in the adult is above twice as
long as wide, and an interval equal to its length exists between it and the interneural bone which
reaches the ■ base of the basal one, in the immature they touch one another. The maxillary
cirri are long, rather thick at their bases and extend as far as the centre of the ventral fins : the
nasal pair reach as far as the end of the opercle : the external mandibular pair go as far as the end
of the opercle : the internal pair not quite so far. Gill membranes deeply cleft, one slightly over-
lapping the other : gills four. Anus under posterior third of ventral fins.

Teeth — A wide band of villiform teeth in intermaxillaries, also a semilunar uninterrupted one
about one quarter as wide as long passes across the vomer and palate.

Fins— Pectoral arises under the last quarter of the opercle : the first dorsal over the posterior
third of the pectoral spine : the ventral opposite the posterior extremity of the first dorsal, and the
anal commences twice the length of the base of the ventral fin behind its posterior margin. First
dorsal spine weak, and not quite half the length of the rays which are branched : the length of the
spine equals the distance between the posterior margin of the orbit and the posterior extremity of
the opercle. First ventral ray undivided, the rest branched, the fin situated horizontally. Pectoral
spine strong, laterally compressed, its length equals the distance from the anterior extremity of
the orbit to the posterior extremity of the opercle : it is armed internally with eight sharp curved

PLATE Mil

ri,i J .

^ "">*■&'

/■,;/ J .

Fig -r> .

f li.r. ,/,/,./ ..,„!,.

I ITSIII'S VlTTATIS. J.I'SBI IMIIIAIilil'S CIKTSBUS. .i.llAK.l M A I. A B A 1! I (' A

THE FISHES OF MALABAB. L85

teeth, decreasing in size from the first, to the last : it is also finely serrated externally and ends in
a strong tooth directed forwards, between which and the moel anterior tooth of its internal margin
is a trefoil-shaped membraneous prolongation as seen in the Hypselobagrua armatus (page 188).
The adipose dorsal appears as if it contained the rudiments of rays. Anal with its firsi three
rays unbranched, the remainder branched, a fleshy sheath extends along the base of the fin.
Caudal lobed in the adult, deeply lunated in the immature.

Lateral line — Proceeds direct to opposito centre of caudal, and ceases just before reaching it :
it is formed of pairs of very short parallel tubes, more distinct in the anterior than in the posterior
portion of the body.

Colours — Deep leaden, with a dark brown spot on the shoulder surrounded by a lighter
margin: abdomen silvery. Cheeks and under surface of head of a yellowish tinge. Base- qf
pectoral and anal yellowish. Fins grey, covered with minute dark points.

I received some specimens of this fish from the Rev. H. Baker (junior) from the mountain
streams of Travancore, the largest being rather less than four inches in length.

Habitat — Mountain streams of Malabar.

Genus PSEUDOBAGRUS, Bheher.

Branchiostegals, from eight to ten. Head depressed, roughened, and covered with very thin skin.
Opercular hones articulated and moveable : occipital process scarcely reaches the basal bone of dorsal fin.
Back wide. Eyes of moderate size or small. Mouth anterior. Cirri eight, one nasal, one maxillary, and
two mandibular pairs. Teeth form a continuous transverse villiform band on the vomer and palate ; those
in jaws also villiform, and in several rows. Dorsal with one sharp, sometimes serrated spine, and seven
rays : it is inserted before the ventral, which has six rays. Adipose dorsal short, as long as high. Pectoral
spine strong and denticulated. Anal of moderate length, of twenty or more rays. Caudal emarginate or
forked : the external rays sometimes produced. Interbranchial membrane deeply cleft. An air bladder
present.

PSEUDOBAGRUS CHRYSEUS. Plate XIII. Fig. 2.

Pseudobagrus chryseus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 290.

B. x. D. i I 0. P.i V. 6. A. 27. C. 17.

Length of head about §, of base of first dorsal ^, of base of adipose dorsal x'3, of caudal §,
of base of anal f of total length. Height of head \, of body §, of dorsal fin \, of anal L of
total length.

Eyes— Diameter & of length of head, 1J diameters apart, upwards of 1 diameter from end of

snout.

Gape of mouth wide, its transverse width being equal to half the length of the head. Jaws
equal in length. Summit of head depressed, both it and the shoulder bone furrowed ; occipital
process narrow, twice as long as wide ; basal bone considerably produced, so as nearly to touch the
occipital process, and extended in front on either side of the dorsal spine. A flat lance-shaped
groove in the central line of the head, between the orbits, pointing downwards and forwards,
reaching in front nearly to the intermaxillaries, and superiorly only extending to a short distance

2 B

186 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

behind the orbits. Nasal cirri equal to half the length of the head, the maxillary pair slightly
longer ; the external of the mandibular pairs reaches as far as the base of the pectoral, whilst the
internal pah' is one-fourth shorter.

Teeth Very fine and villiform in both intermaxillaries and lower jaw ; on the vomer

and palate they are considerably longer and stronger, and are arranged in a transverse band,
slightly crescentic posteriorly.

Fins — The first dorsal arises opposite the middle of the pectoral, and the ventral just beyond
its termination, and reaching as far as the commencement of the anal. Pectoral situated in the
lower quarter of the body. The adipose dorsal commences opposite the middle of the anal. Dorsal
spine strongly serrated, having about ten teeth posteriorly in its upper two-thirds, and three serra-
tures in the front of its summit anteriorly, its extremity ending in a soft filament : its rays are
longer than its spine. The pectoral spine is stronger than that of the dorsal, slightly roughened,
serrated anteriorly, and more strongly so posteriorly, with from sixteen to eighteen teeth : when
laid flat this spine is protected by an overhanging bony arch, formed by the process of the shoulder
bone. Adipose dorsal soft and rounded. Anal rather rounded posteriorly. Caudal deeply lunated ;
outer rays the longest.

Lateral line — Passes from the summit of the opercle direct to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Back greenish yellow ; sides golden ; a large round black finger mark situated
just behind the opercle, and surrounded by a light yellow margin. The first and adipose dorsals
are yellowish, with a dusky tinge. Caudal with a deep black base and a blackish margin, the
ground colour being of a reddish orange, slightly stained with black at its extremity. Anal of a
deep orange red, slightly margined with black. Eyes orange.

Exceedingly common in the Kurriavanoor river, near Cochin, where they appear to prefer
the deepest pools ; four or five are frequently taken out at one haul of a cast-net. They are also
occasionally captured during the monsoon in the backwater at Kurriapudnam, and in the river at
Cochin. Said by the fishermen rarely to exceed sixteen inches in length. Esteemed for eating ;
but the wounds inflicted by their pectoral spines are dreaded.

Habitat — Fresh waters and occasionally backwaters of the Malabar coast.

Genus HEMIBAGRUS, Bleeker.

Brancbiostegals, from eleven to twelve. Head depressed. Opercular bones with moveable articulations.
An interspace between the posterior extremity of occipital process, and the anterior extremity of the basal
bone of the dorsal fin ; bones rough or granulated. Back wide, fleshy. Eyes with free circular lids.
Mouth anterior. Cirri eight, one pair at posterior nasal orifices, which are some distance from the anterior
which are tubular : one maxillary and two mandibular pairs, the last being near the corner of the mouth.
Teeth in intermaxillaries and lower jaw in several villiform rows ; those on vomer and palatines form a
semicircular undivided patch. Two dorsals, the first with one denticulated spine and seven rays : the
second adipose and of moderate size. Pectoral with a strong denticulated spine. Anal of medium size.
Caudal bilobed. Interbranchial membrane deeply cleft. Ah bladder present.

* HEMIBAGRUS OCULATUS.

Bagrus oculatus, Cuv. & Vol. xiv. p. 424 ; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 339.

THE PISHES OE MALABAR.

1ST

B. vi. (?) D. 1 | 0. A. 12.

Eyes — Diameter -| of length of Load, 1 diameter apart.

Front of mouth rouuded, Upper surface of head granulated, and twice as long as wide.
Occipital process long, straight, and extending halfway to the base of the dorsal. Maxillary cirri

pass the anal.

Fins — First dorsal pointed, higher than the body : the adipose dorsal equals the anal in its

length. Lobes of caudal pointed, the superior the longest.

Colours — Grey above, silvery on the sides and white beneath. The dorsal black at its base,
and superiorly ; the other fins blackish. Ventrals fawn colour, with white edges.

Grows to three inches in length.

Habitat — Rivers and fresh waters of Malabar.

Genus HYPSELOBAGRUS, Bleeher.

Macrones, pt. Dumeril.

Branchiostegals, from eight to ten. Head conical, compressed. Opercular bones articulated and move-
able. The occipital process which is rugose touches the basal bone of the dorsal fin, or should there be an
intermediate shield they articulate one with the other, and there is no intermediate free space. Back
compressed. Eyes free with subvertical lids. Mouth anterior. Cirri eight, one pair to posterior nasal
orifice which is some distance apart from the anterior which is tubular ; one pair to masillaries : and
two pairs to mandibular Teeth in both jaws sharp and iu many rows, those on the vomer and palate
villiform and continuous in one semilunar band. Dorsal inserted before ventral, with a sharp serrated
spine and seven rays : adipose dorsal in length equal to, or of greater extent than the anal which is
short. Pectoral spine denticulated. Caudal bilobed. Interbranchial membrane deeply cleft. Air bladder
present.

HYPSELOBAGRUS AEMATUS.

Macrones armatus, Day, Pro. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 289.

B. ix-x. D. \ | 0. P. i. V. 6. A. 11-12. C. 15.

Length of head above \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of adipose
dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head ), of body \, of first dorsal \, of anal \

of total length.

Eyes— Transversely oval : horizontal diameter f , vertical diameter \ of length of head, ¥ of a
horizontal diameter apart, \ a diameter from end of snout.

Head compressed, a gradual rise from snout to first dorsal. Upper jaw the longest over-
lapping the lower, the cleft of the mouth hardly exceeds one-fourth of its gape, and does not
extend posteriorly so far as the anterior margin of the orbit, the inferior surface of
the intermaxillaries is on a level with the lower margin of the orbit. Upper surface of
head rugose with a central longitudinal groove extending nearly but not quite to the
base of the occipital process which is rugose. The occipital process (including its
second bone) is three times as long as wide, the second bone is closely articulated to it
and also touches the basal bone of the dorsal fin. The nostrils are wide apart, the
posterior having a cirrus. The nasal cirri extend to as far as the posterior margin of the orbit : the

2 b 2

188 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

maxillary to the middle or end of anal : and the external mandibular which arises just under the
angle of the mouth extends to the middle of the pectoral, whilst the internal pair arise near
together under symphysis and do not reach quite so far posteriorly as the external ones.

Teeth — Villiform in both jaws in several rows : those on vomer and palate also villiform and
^5^ disposed in a single uninterrupted crescentic band.

Fins. — Pectoral arises under the extremity of the opercle and in the lower fourth of the body :
the dorsal is situated over the posterior third of the pectoral spine : the anal midway between the
base of the ventral and base of the caudal : the adipose dorsal commences a short distance anterior
to the anal. Pectoral spine strong, curved, laterally compressed, its length equals the distance
between the angle of the mouth and the posterior extremity of the opercle : it has about ten very

strong curved denticulations along its internal border, whilst its anterior
border ends in a point directed forwards, between which and the first
tooth — on its internal border — is a membraneous prolongation in the form
of a trefoil leaf. The dorsal spine is of the same length but more slender
than that of the pectoral, it is finely serrated posteriorly and ends superiorly in a soft prolongation.
The three first anal rays are undivided ; the caudal deeply lobed, the superior being generally the
longest whilst both frequently terminate in filamentous prolongations.

Lateral line — Passes direct from the upper margin of the opercle to the centre of the
caudal fin.

Colours — Bright leaden silvery, lightest along the sides and with a purplish gloss over the
cheeks. A black spot just anterior to the root of the dorsal spine. Fins finely dotted with
minute black points.

Not uncommon in the rivers and tanks of fresh water, and occasionally found in the back-
water. Immediately on being captured the fishermen break off its pectoral and dorsal spines, as
wounds from them are dreaded. It takes a bait freely, and is eaten by the Natives, but does not
appear to exceed five inches in length.
Habitat — Malabar.

Hypselobagrus CAVASIUS.

Pimelodus cavasius, Ham. Buck. pp. 203, 379, pi. 11, f. 67.

Bagrus cavasius, Guv. & Vol. xiv. p. 209 ; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 337.

Pimelodus seengtee, Sylces, Trans. Z. S. ii. p. 374, pi. 66, f. 2.

Macrones cavasius, Giinther, Catal. v. p. 76.

D. J | 0. P. i V. 6. A. 11. C. 15.

The length of the head rather more than \, base of adipose dorsal § of total length. Height
of body \ of total length.

Head as broad as high, its greatest width being equal to two-thirds of its length. Upper
jaw the longest : snout slightly depressed. Central longitudinal groove narrow extending
posteriorly to the anterior extremity of the base of the occipital process : on either side are raised
ridges which from opposite the orbits pass irregularly forward, and behind them in a stellated form.
Occipital process narrow, and extending to the basal bone of the dorsal fin. Nasal cirri short :
maxillary cirri reaching to the base of the caudal fin : mandibular ones short, the external being
longer than the head, the internal slightly shorter. Both apertures of nostrils are nearer to the
snout than they are to the orbits.

THE FISHES OF MALABAB. 189

Teeth — None on jaws, but in a narrow uninterrupted crcscentic band on the vomer.

Fins — Dorsal fin pointed, higher than the body, its spine one-third shorter than its rays, of
moderate strength, and entire : the soft dorsal commences just behind the first dorsal, and gra-
dually increases in height, ending a short distance below the base of the caudal. Caudal deeply
emarginate, upper lobe the longest, and both pointed. Pectoral spine shorter than that of the
dorsal, strongly denticulated interiorly and its extremity soft and reaching slightly beyond the base
of the first dorsal. Ventral commencing posterior to the end of the pectoral and not reaching so far
as the anal.

Colours — Brownish above, with a green and purplish reflection on the sides, becoming
pure white on the abdomen. All the fins except the anal are dotted with black, as are also the
maxillary cirri.

Grows to about six inches in length.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Hindustan.

* Hypselobagrus montanus.
Bagrus montanus, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 337.

Head rather more than \, and height about \ of length of body. Second dorsal about \ of
total length.

Eyes — Diameter about \ of length of head, 11 diameters apart.

The maxillary cirri extend to the anal fin.

Fins — Dorsal spine toothed. Pectoral spine with seven or eight moderately strong teeth on
its terminal half.

Colours — Greenish above and on the fins : yellow on the cheeks and beneath.

Grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Manantoddy river in the Wynaad.

* Hypselobagrus Malabakicus.
Bagrus Malabaricus, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 338.

D. i | 0. A. 11.

Head slightly shorter than in the Hyp. montanus, being about § of length of body, and about
the same length as the height of the body.

Maxillary cirri reach to beyond the ventrals.
Fins — Pectoral spine with fifteen teeth.
Colours — Bluish-leaden above, silvery beneath.
Habitat — Mountain streams of Malabar.

Hypselobagrus tengara.

Pimelodus tengara, Ham. Buck. pp. 183, 377, pi. 3, f. 61.
Bagrus tenggara, Cuv. & Vol. xiv. p. 414.
Macrones tengara, Giinther, Catal. v. p. 8] .
B. x. D. }. | 0. P. J. V. G. A. 12.

190 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Length of head %, of pectoral T2r, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal ^T, of base of second dorsal
Jg, of base of anal T\y of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal 1 of second
dorsal ^, of ventral -j^, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes Oval, situated near the profile, and in the anterior half of the head. Horizontal

diameter \, vertical diameter ± of length of head, 1 of a diameter from end of snout, and 2 dia-
meters apart.

Profile rather convex from the snout to the first dorsal, from whence it sinks to the anal. Ab-
dominal profile straighter than that of the back. Thickness of body greatest opposite the opercles.
Head obtuse and rounded in front. Width of the head rather more than the height of the
body. Mouth forming nearly a semicircle, and cleft midway to the anterior margin of the orbit.
Upper jaw slightly the longest. Opercle ending in an obtuse point, which is rather produced : its
whole surface roughened in fines. Upper surface of head as far as the centre of the orbits
roughened in small sinuous closely approximating elevations. Occipital process long and "narrow,
half as wide at the base as it is high, and divided from the basal bone of the dorsal by a bone
shaped like an arrow-head, directed forwards, and meeting the summit of the occipital process.
Basal bone nearly triangular, concave in front and posteriorly ; all are roughened the same as the
summit of the head. Central longitudinal groove broad posteriorly, where it commences opposite
the posterior margin of the orbit ; it is continued to opposite the posterior nostril ; between the
upper end of the groove on the head and the base of the occipital process, and a short distance on
either side, is an irregular depression, the two rather converging posteriorly, and rather expanded
externally. Shoulder bone nodulated. Nasal cirri as long as the head : maxillary widest at their
base, and extended as far as the posterior extremity of the ventral. The two pairs of mandibular
cirri reaching to the posterior extremity of the opercles. Nostrils, posterior one round, not far
from the mesial line, and a short distance from the anterior one, which is more external.

Teeth — In intermaxillaries numerous, and in a small, fine, sharp band : vomerine teeth in a
narrow crescentic band sub-interrupted in the centre.

Fins_Dorsal arises opposite the posterior third of the pectoral : ventral slightly beyond the
extremity of the dorsal : second dorsal opposite anal. First dorsal spine rather feeble, half as long as
the head, its sides smooth, with one or two serratures at its upper and anterior extremity, whilst
its upper third is posteriorly serrated, it ends in a soft prolongation : the fin pointed. Pec-
toral spine stronger than that of the dorsal, and equal to the distance from the anterior margin of
the orbit to the posterior margin of the opercles : anterior edge rugose, posterior strongly serrated.
Caudal deeply lobed.

Lateral line— Curves down to opposite the end of the ventral fin, then proceeds direct to the
base of the caudal, where it divides into two very indistinct branches, the upper curving over the
bases of three rays above it, and the lower over the bases of two below it.

Colours — Greenish olive, with three brown longitudinal bands, the centre one of which
commences from a large black ocellus beliind the head : the bands and ocellus are more distinct
in young specimens than in adults. There is sometimes a dark spot on the middle of the root of
the caudal.

I have with some hesitation considered this fish to be Hamilton Buchanan's " Pimelodus
tengara," but it is without doubt Dr. Giinther's " Macrones tengara," and as he has probably
described his specimen from Hamilton Buchanan's typical one, I conclude some mistake may have
arisen in the " Fishes of the Ganges," especially as it is there asserted that the fish is small
and inhabits ponds, that its dorsal spine is smooth, and that its maxillary cirri reach to the end of

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 101

the caudal fin. I should also remark that this can hardly be identical, as Br. Gunther suggests,
with Ham. Buchanan's " Pimelodus batasius," pi. 23, f. GO, the figure of which is incorrect, for in
the description, pp. 179, 377, it is expressly stated that it has eight cirri shorter than the head, and
only grows to about three inches in length. Again it can scarcely be the " Pimelodus carcio" of
the same author, which is a pond fish of about three inches in length, from North Bengal, in which
the maxillary cirrus does not extend to the posterior extremity of the first dorsal fin, whilst the
dorsal spine is said to have a strong prickle barbed behind, &c. &c.

Common. Grows to at least a foot and a half in length, and is eaten by the poorer classes.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India and Ceylon.

Group PANGASINI, Sleeker.
Sub- Group PANG ASH, Sleeker.

Genus PSEUDEUTEOPIUS, Bleeher.

Branchiostegals from (? five) nine to ten. Abdominal profile more convex than that of the back :
opercular bones with moveable articulations ; body compressed. Eyes large, situated behind ; occasionally a
portion rather below the level of the mouth. Mouth anterior, in some the lower jaw the longest, in others
the upper, according to the age of the fish. Head covered with soft skin. Nostrils patent, transverse, the
posterior pair nearer to one another than they are to the anterior pair. Cirri eight, one pair to posterior
nostrils, one maxillary pair, and two mandibular pairs close to margin of lower jaw. Two dorsals, the
anterior placed before the ventral, short with a sharp, often serrated spine, and from four to eight rays :
the second adipose, rudimentary, and opposite the anal, which latter is elongate and many-rayed, termi-
nating some distance from the caudal which is forked. Ventral with six or seven rays. Pectoral with a
serrated spine. Teeth villiform in several rows in intermaxillaries and mandibles, those on vomer and
palatines in one undivided transverse band. Branchial aperture wide, interbranchial membrane deeply
emarginate. An air bladder present.

Pseudeutropius Sykesti.

Schilbe Sykesii, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 335.
Pseudeutropius Mitchelli, Gunther, Catal. v. p. 59.

B. viii. or ix. D. i | 0. P. \. V. 6. A. 35.

Length of head i\, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal -fa, of base of anal more
than 1 of total length. Height of head TV, of body ft, of dorsal TV, of ventral T\,-, of anal ^ of

total length.

Eyes— Diameter rather exceeding \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout,

rather more than 1 diameter apart.

Body elongated, compressed, decreasing in size from the head to the caudal. Profile of head
slightly elevated over the snout and nape, causing the central portion to appear rather concave ;
from thence to the caudal the line is nearly straight : the profile of the abdomen is more convex
than that of the back.

Mouth, in young specimens up to about four inches and a half in length the upper jaw is

192 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

slightly the longest, but in adults the lower is the longest, and curved upwards at its extremity.
Preopercle narrow, a third as broad as high. Posterior nostril the largest, nearly circular, and
situated near the mesial line : the anterior rather below and in front on the anterior surface of
the snout. Occipital process covered by very thin skin, slender, and joining the basal bone of the
dorsal fin, which is triangular, and half as long as the occipital process. A central longitudinal
groove, which becomes almost imperceptible in the adult, exists along the central line of the skull
to the base of the occipital process. The pair of maxillary cirri extend as far as the anterior margin
of the anal fin : the nasal pair are fine, and not so long as the head : the two pairs of labial cirri
arise close together, nearly under the symphysis, and are as long as the head.

Teeth — In both jaws sharp and villiform, in two rows along the sides, but more numerous in
the centre. Teeth on palate in two small oval patches.

Fins — Dorsal arises opposite the posterior third of the pectoral : ventral under the termination
of the dorsal : anal about midway between the snout and the base of the caudal : adipose dorsal
arises over the thirtieth ray of anal. First dorsal rounded, spine slender, two-thirds the length
of the head, and finely serrated posteriorly : interspinous membrane deeply notched. Pectoral
spine strong, much more so than that of the dorsal, and as long as the head without the snout ; its
internal margin has from twenty to twenty-five serratures. Ventral very small, not extending as
far as the anal. The first ray of the anal the longest : the distance between the end of the anal
and the commencement of the caudal fin, equals two-thirds of the depth of the base of the
caudal. Caudal rather deeply lobed.

Lateral line — First curves downwards, and then passes direct to the centre of the caudal.

Colours— Upper surface of head of a deep grey. Body green, abruptly changing a short
distance above the lateral line, where it becomes a beautiful silvery white, which is continued on
to the abdomen. Dorsal, pectoral, anal, and caudal white, the last two fins being stained with
grey at their bases.

By no means rare in the rivers of Malabar. In two instances the second or adipose dorsal
fin was deficient, perhaps lost by some accident. No doubt it was from some such deformed speci-
men that Dr. Jerdon has described this fish.

Does not grow to above eight inches in length.

Habitat — Rivers of Malabar.

Sub-Fam. SILURIFORMES, Bleeker.
Group silurini, Bleeker.

Genus WALLAGO, Bleeker.

Branchiostegals, fifteen to twenty-one. Neck not elevated, the upper profile of the head being straight.
Eyes above or on a level with the angle of the mouth. Snout rather produced ; head covered with soft
skin : nostrils remote. Cirri four, one on each supramaxillary, and one on either mandibula. One very short
dorsal above or before ventrals, and without any sharp spine. No adipose dorsal. Anal elongated, and
terminating near the caudal, which is long and has two rounded lobes. The pectoral spine moderately
strong ; serratures weak or absent. Teeth villiform, in many rows in the jaws, and in an oblong patch on
either side of vomer, but separated by an interspace : none on the palate.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Wallago ATTU.

193

Silurus athu, Bloch, Scfrn. p. 378, t. 75.

Wallagoo, Russell, pi. 165.

Wallago attu, Bleeker, Atl. Ich. ii. p. 79, t. 86, f. 1 ; Giinther, Catal. v. p. 36.

Schilbe boalis, Syhes, T. Z. S. ii. p. 368, pi. 64, f. 3.

Silurus boalis, Ham. Buck. pp. 154, 375, pi. 29, f. 49 ; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv.

p. 335.
Silurus Wallagoo, Cuv. & Vol. xiv. p. 354.
Wtahlah, Mai.

B. xix-xxi. I). I P. W-t? V. 8-10. A. 86-93. C. 17.

Length of head T2X, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal about J0> of base of anal *
of total length. Height of head -^, of body \, of dorsal \, of anal T'5, of ventral & of total

length.

Eyes— Transversely oval. Horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter \ of length of head, nearly

2 diameters from end of snout, 2^ diameters apart.

Body compressed from side to side : head depressed. A slight rise from the snout to the first
dorsal, from thence a gradual descent to the caudal. Abdominal profile more curved than that of

flip IdrcIc

' Gape of mouth oblique, wide, and its cleft extending the width of the orbit behind its pos-
terior extremity. Lower jaw the longest, with eight pores along each ramus. Nostrils round,
placed midway between the orbits and snout. Nasal cirri broad, fleshy, and extending to about
the thirtieth anal ray. Mandibular cirri one-fourth length of head.

Teeth— Vilhform, in many rows in the upper and lower jaws, also in two oblong and rather
widely separated spots on vomer.

Fins-Dorsal commences over the posterior third of pectoral : ventral under the dorsal : anal
at about a third of the distance between the snout and the base of the caudal. Dorsal high.
Pectoral spine moderately strong and rough, but can scarcely be said to be toothed; its oblique
articulations are very distinct, and its termination soft : the extremity of the fin reaches to opposite
the sixth anal ray. Caudal lobed, the upper the longest, and the lower the widest. A short
interval exists between the anal and caudal fins.

Lateral line— At first curves downwards, but from opposite the tenth ray of the anal proceeds

direct to the centre of the caudal.

Colours— Upper surface of body greenish, sides and abdomen silvery white. All the fins with
the exception of the dorsal yellowish white. The upper portion of the anal fin has a purplish tinge
along its whole extent. Dorsal greenish yellow.

Common in the rivers, and excellent eating, although rather rich; it salts well, and is espe-
cially adapted for curries. Usually found to about three and a half feet in length, but said to attain
six feet. The jaw bones of this fish when dried, are stated by Russell to be used at Vizagapatam
for carding the finest kinds of cotton. It is very voracious, and takes a bait freely.

The number of branchiostegous rays varies exceedingly in this species. In three examined in

one day all differed.

Habitat— Fresh waters of India, Burmah, and Malaysia.

2 c

194: the fishes of malabar.

"Wallago Malabaricus.
Silurus Malabaricus, Cuv. & Val. xiv. p. 353 ; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 334 ;
GiintJier, Catal. v. p. 34.

MUNGEE WAHLAH, Mai.

B. xv. D. 4. P. -jL V. 9. A. 68. C. 17.

Length of head \, of base of dorsal about yj^, of pectoral \, of base of anal § , of caudal \
of total length. Height of head y\, of body \ , of dorsal ^, of ventral ^p of anal ^, of base
of caudal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter ^ of length of head, 1 J diameters apart, nearly 1 diameter from end of snout.

Gape of mouth very wide, being three times its antero-posterior length. Muzzle rounded in
front. Lower jaw the longest, curving upwards in the centre, so that when closed its extremity is
completely in advance of the upper jaw, and even higher. The cleft of the mouth only extends half
the distance to the eye, where it ascends to opposite the centre of the orbit. The maxillary cirri
are situated opposite its angle, and reach to the end of the pectoral fin : the mandibular pair are
short and only equal to a third the length of the head. Head fleshy.

Teeth — Sharp, carded, and recurved, in six or eight rows on the intermaxillary bone and the
lower jaw, and also in two oblique oval spots on the vomer, separated by an interspace : none on
palate.

Fins — Dorsal arises above the commencement of the ventral : the pectoral reaches just beyond
the origin of the anal, which is divided from the caudal by a notch, and for two-thirds of its
distance from the abdomen is covered by a fleshy sort of sheath. Dorsal fin weak and expanded
in the centre. Pectoral spine serrated on its inferior aspect. Caudal lobed, the superior the
longest.

Lateral line — Passes direct from the upper margin of the opercle to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Greenish along the back, and white with a purplish tinge along the sides, abdomen
and chest. The whole of the body minutely studded with fine black dots. A large round dark
finger mark on the shoulder, opposite the centre of the opercle.

This fish is found in the same localities as the Wallago attu, but is said never to exceed two
feet in length. It is equally good for salting and eating.

Habitat — Eivers of Malabar.

Fam. CHACOIDEI, Bleeker.
Sub-Pam. PLOTOSIFORMES, Bleeker.

Genus PLOTOSUS, Lacep.

Branchiostegals from nine to twelve. Head conical, depressed. Opercular bones with immoveable
articulations. Eyes small, with free lids. Mouth transverse. Cirri eight, one pair to posterior nasal
orifices, which are some distance apart from the anterior, which are on the margin of the snout or perforating
the upper lip : one maxillary and two mandibular pairs. Teeth in jaws, unequal in size, in several
rows, those on the vomer obtuse and in a semilunar patch. Two dorsals, the first short and having a sharp

195
THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

spine, the second long and confluent with the caudal and anal, which last also consists of in any rays;
Pectoral spine moderately strong and denticulated. Branchial aperture large, and divided as far forwards
as the eyes: membranes not attached to the isthmus. The branchial arches are without any posterior
processes or membrane.

Plotosus Arab.

Silurus Arab, ForsMl, p. xvi. No. 3G.

Ingelee, Russell, pi. 166.

Plotosus anguillaris, Cantor, Catal. p. 264 ; Gilnther, Catal. v. p. 24.

Plotosus Arab, Bleeker, Atl. Ich. ii. p. 98, t. 95, f. 2.

Plotosus lineatus, Guv. & Vol. xv. p. 412.

? Plotosus castaneus, Guv. & Vol. xv. p. 421.

Moorghee, Mai. .

B. xi.-xii. D.?L|93. Y. 12. A. 66. C. 13. Vert. -if.

Length of head f, of pectoral J, of caudal ^5, of base of first dorsal T'8, of base of second
dorsal above J, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal \,
of second dorsal &, of anal ^, of ventral £ of total length.

Eyes— Oval, situated near the upper profile. Horizontal diameter £, vertical diameter | of
length of head, 2 diameters from end of snout, and the same distance apart.

Body elongated and compressed : head depressed, obtuse, and widest opposite the opercles,
the width forming almost a semicircle.

Mouth directed forward with fleshy lips : its gape equal to half the length of the head.
Numerous papillee on both lips. Upper jaw slightly the longest. The posterior limb of the
preopercle slopes a little downwards and forwards : angle rounded. Opercle ending m rather an
obtuse point. Summit of head rough, with a lanceolate central longitudinal groove from opposite
the orbits to the snout. Nodulated lines exist above the orbits. Occipital process long and very
narrow. Four pairs of cirri, the maxillary and external mandibular pairs equal to about half the
length of the head : nasal and internal mandibular pairs also equal in length but shorter than the
others. Nostrils close to the lips, and near the central line of the head.

Teeth— Irregularly disposed in three rows, in the intermaxillaries and lower jaw they are
large, sharp, pointed, and directed a little backwards : the anterior ones the strongest. Two
outer teeth in the upper jaw, large, curved, and directed slightly inwards. There are more teeth
in the lower than in the upper jaw. Vomerine teeth rounded, with one or two sharp ones exter-
nally. Tongue fleshy, without teeth.

Fins— First dorsal and pectoral arise on a line : ventral commences opposite the end of the
pectoral, and the second dorsal above it : anal begins opposite the end of the ventral. First dorsal
pointed, and its rays prolonged; its spine rather strongly toothed on the anterior and posterior
margins. The distance between the first dorsal and the second equals two-thirds of the height of
the body : it is rather lower in front than towards its centre j it, the caudal, and the anal are
united, but as each ends in a point, of which that of the caudal is the shortest, it appears as if
two V-shaped notches had been nipped out of the extremity of the caudal fin, which however
occasionally is rounded. The pectoral spine is moderately strong, half the length of the lm,

denticulated on either edge.

Lateral line-Commences at the upper margin of the opercles, first curves slightly upwards,

2 c 2

19G THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

and then gradually downwards to opposite about the sixteenth anal ray, from whence it passes
straight.

Colours — Chestnut, tinged with green on the back, and lighter on the abdomen. A line
bluish-white line commences on the summit of the snout, passes upwards over the back of the eye,
and then runs onwards to its termination at the tail, midway between the lateral line and the base
of the dorsal fin. A second and much broader bluish-white line passes from the upper angle of
the jaw, under the eye, across the centre of the opercle, meets the lateral line opposite the com-
mencement of the second dorsal, and proceeds under it to the tail. Occasionally a third white
line skirts the base of the anal fin. Fins brownish edged with black.

Not uncommon in the backwater and estuaries of Malabar. Eaten by the lower classes.
Grows to two feet seven inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India. It is found from the Eastern coast of Africa to Japan
and Polynesia.

* Plotosus limbatus.
Plotosus limbatus, Guv. & Vol. xv. p. 422 ; Giinther, Catal. v. p. 25.

D. 112. A. 101. C. 11.

Length of head from ^ to J of the total length.

The nasal cirrus reaches as far as the posterior border of the orbit : and the maxillary to the
border of the opercle.

Colours — Of an uniform maroon ; or dark with a greenish tinge. The fins are bordered with
black.

Habitat — Seas of India.

Fam. HETEROBRANCHOIDEI, BkeTcer.
Sub-Fam. HETEROBRANCHIFORMES, Bleeker.

Genus CLAEIAS, Gronov.
Macropteronotus, Lacep.
Cossyphus & phagorus, Mc CleUand.

Branchiostegals, from seven to nine. "Upper and lateral portion of head — which is hroad and
depressed— osseous, and if covered with skin it is extremely thin. Opercular hones articulated together,
moveable. Cirri eight, fleshy, two nasal, two maxillary and four mandibular. Cleft of mouth transverse.
Eyes small, with a free orbital margin. A dendritic accessory respiratory apparatus is attached to the
convex side of the second and fourth branchial arches and is received into a cavity behind the gill-cavity
proper. Dorsal fin long, and without a spine, it extends from the neck nearly to the caudal : no adipose
fin. Anal long, extending almost to caudal. Pectoral with a sharp spiue. Ventral with six rays.
Teeth in jaws in villiform bands, and a transverse band of villiform or granular ones on the vomer : villiform
also on palate.

Clarias MAGUR.
Marpoo, Russell, pi. 168.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 197

Macropteronotus magur, Ham. Buck. pp. 146, 374, pi. 26. f. 45.
Clarias marpus, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 378.

Clarias magur, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 381 ; Giinther, Catal. v. p. 17.
Clarias punctatus, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 284; Cantor, Catal. p. 263.

B. ix. D. 64-70. P. J. V. G. A. 50-53. C. 17.

Length of head £ of the total length.

Eyes — Situated in the anterior fourth of the head : diameter J of length of head : the distance
apart equals -} of the length of head.

Mouth anterior and of moderate width. Head finely granulated superiorly, and covered with
a thin skin, its width opposite the gill covers equals two-thirds of its length. In the centre of
the helmet are two ovoid depressions, the anterior — which is the longest and equals about one-fifth
of the entire length of the head — is situated so that its lower portion is between the orbits : the upper
depression is half the size of the lower one, situated in the mesial line of the head, and opposite
the base of the pectoral fins. The occipital process is not prominent, and is rounded posteriorly.

The maxillary cirri are thick and fleshy at their bases, rather more than one quarter of the
entire length of the fish, and extend to opposite the end of the pectoral spine : the nasal cirri
reach to the base of the occipital process : the outer mandibular ones are one-fifth and the inner
one-eighth of the entire length of the fish.

Teeth Card-like, those in intermaxillaries forming a broad band which extends nearly as

far as opposite the base of the maxillary cirri : those on vomer and palate form a villiform
crescentic band in width about equalling those in the intermaxillaries.

Fins Dorsal commences at the neck and extends nearly as far as the caudal : it is rather

highest posteriorly. The pectoral commences under opercle, its spine is strong, three-fourths the
length of the fin, and finely serrated internally, but the serratures are concealed in the skin.
"Ventral abdominal, commencing rather posterior to the end of the pectoral. Anal arises under
posterior extremity of first fourth of the dorsal. Caudal rounded.

Lateral line — Nearly straight.

Colours— Olive green above with purplish reflections, the body with lighter spots or blotches,
(in a specimen captured in Cochin, but since mislaid), and of a dirty yellowish white inferiorly.

Cirri black.

Is eaten by the Natives. Grows to ten inches in length.
Habitat — Fresh waters of India and Malaysia.

* Clarias Dussumieri.

Clarias Dussumieri, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 382 ; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 342.

D. 69. A. 50.

Head smooth. Pectoral spine denticulated.

Teeth Those on the vomer like a pavement and placed in an arc-shaped spot.

Colours — Greenish-black above, fading to greyish white beneath.
Grows to eight inches in length.
Habitat — Fresh waters of Malabar.

198 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Sub-Pam. SACCOBRANCHIFORMES, Bleeher.
Genus SACCOBEANCHUS, Guv. and Vol.
Heteeopneustes, Midler.

Branchiostegals, from six to eight. Eyes small. Opercular bones articulated together, moveable. Upper
and lateral part of head osseous, or covered by a very thin skin. Cleft of mouth transverse, moderate, anterior.
Gill cavity with an accessory posterior sac, extending backwards between the muscles on either side of the
vertebral column, to beneath the dorsal fin. Cirri eight, two nasal, two maxillary and four mandibular.
One dorsal, short, and composed of few rays : no adipose fin. Pectoral spine moderately strong. Ventral
of six rays, situated behind or below the dorsal. Jaws with bands of villifonn teeth, disposed on the
vomer in two oblong widely separated patches.

Saccobranchus SINGIO.

Silurus singio, Ham. Buck. pp. 147, 347, pi. 37, f. 46.

Saccobranchus singio, Guv. & Vol. xv. p. 400, pi. 448 ; Giinther, Catal. v. p. 30.

Saccobranchus fossilis, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 342.

Kahree meen, Mai.

B. vi-vii. D. 7. P. £. V. 6. A. 68-72. C. 15.

Length of head |, of pectoral j-^, of caudal ^, of base of dorsal about g^, of base of anal f
of total length. Height of head *fe, of body J, of dorsal -j^, of ventral ^, of anal T\f of total
length.

Eyes — In the adult are situated on the external margin of the head, and directed upwards and
outwards. Diameter £ of length of head, from If to 2 diameters from end of snout, and rather
more than 3 diameters apart. In immature specimens the eyes are directed more laterally, and are
proportionately larger.

Body long and compressed. Head broad and strongly depressed, its width being equal to
the height of the body. A slight rise occurs from the snout towards the occiput.

Mouth anterior, with wide transverse nearly semicircular gape, but narrow cleft ; its lips fleshy,
and surrounded by four pairs of cirri. Maxillary cirri with fleshy bases ; they extend to the termi-
nation of the pectoral fin, or sometimes slightly beyond it : nasal cirri small, extending to opposite
the posterior third of the pectoral : the two pairs of mandibular cirri are of equal size, the external
reaching to the posterior third of the pectoral, whilst the internal are slightly shorter ; but it must
be remarked, that these cirri vary irregularly in different specimens ; in one ten inches in length
the maxillary pair reach the commencement of the anal fin, and the remainder are comparatively
produced to what is observable in the adult. On the summit of the head, which is rugose, osseous,
or but slightly covered with skin, there is, between and rather behind the orbits, a smooth lanceo-
late depression, directed forwards, broader and shorter in the adult than in the immature. In the
central bne, and on the posterior extremity of the cranium, there is another smooth oval depression,
about the size of the orbit in the adult, but larger in the immature. Nostrils in front and rather
internal to the orbit, the anterior one tubular, the posterior oblong, and midway between the orbit
and jaws.

Teeth — In crowded villiform bands in each jaw, and a semicircle of the same character on the
vomer and palate. Tongue smooth.

Fins — Dorsal small, rounded, and rather expanded above, situated over the ventral and oppo-
site the posterior extremity of the pectoral ; it has a strong spine having a slightly convex external

TIIE FISIIES OF MALABAR. 199

border, more so in the old than in the immature j to lay it against tho body it makes a semi-
curve. The pectoral spine is from two-thirds to three-fourths tho length of tho head, serrated
internally and roughened externally in adults, but in immature specimens moderately serrated
externally. Ventral small, and extends as far as tho base of the anal, the third ray of which
is the longest, from whence to the last there is a gradual but very slight decrease. There is a
notch between the end of the anal and the commencement of the caudal fin. Caudal lobed, the
lowest the largest, and extending tho furthest : in some small specimens the lobing is not obser-
vable, the fin being rounded.

Lateral line — Faint, passing along the centre of the side.

Colours — Of a leaden black or dirty green, with dusky or reddish fins, lighter than the rest of
the body. Under surface fighter than the back. In some localities there is a long yellow streak
passing above the lateral line, and another below it. Eyes hazel. Immature specimens are of a
much lighter colour.

This fish is held in great dread by the Natives of Malabar, and is commonly known amongst
the Mahomedans as the Bichu ha mutchee, Hind, or " scorpion fish," so named from the injuries
inflicted by its serrated pectoral spine. It is believed that lock-jaw is caused by a scratch from
this spine, and I have personally witnessed most intense phlegmonous inflammation caused by
wounds received from one of these fish. Conseciuently, as soon as captured the offensive spine is
immediately broken off with a piece of stick, and a perfect specimen can for this reason be rarely
procured. The fishermen dread it so much, that they would rather cut the meshes of their nets and
let it escape, than endeavour to take it out uninjured. As this erectile spine can only be laid flat
by a rounded movement, no direct pressure can have any effect on it.

It inhabits all sluggish pieces of water, and the immature are found in the paddy fields in the
low country. It is eaten by the Natives, who consider it highly nourishing. It grows to a foot
and a half in length.

Habitat — Fresh waters of India and Cochin China.

Scopelini, pi, Mullet

Fam. SCOPELID.E, Guntlier.

Sub-Fam. SAURINA, Oiintlier.

Genus SAURUS, Cuvier.
Harpodon, pt. Lesueur.
Triurus, Swainson.

Branchiostegals, from eight to sixteen. Body elongated, subeylindrical. Eyes of moderate size, lateral.
Muzzle short. Gape of mouth wide, and cleft very deep, extending far behind the eyes : edge of upper jaw
formed entirely by the intermaxillaries, which are long and thin : maxiUary long, thin, and closely adherent
to the intermaxillary. First dorsal of a moderate number of rays, nearly central ; second or adipose dorsal
small. Pectoral short. Ventral with eight rays, the internal being the longest, inserted before the dorsal
and not far behind the pectoral. Anal short or of moderate length. Caudal forked. Teeth numerous and
pointed, some being elongated and slender, and can be laid downwards and inwards ; they exist on the jaws,
tongue, and palatine bones, with a single row on the palate, but there are generally none or very few on
the vomer. Body covered with moderately sized scales. Lateral line entire. A raised keel more or less
developed along the central line of the side to the caudal. Gill-openings very wide, gill membrane not
attached to the isthmus. Csecal appendages few.

200 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Saurida TUMBIL.
Salmo TUMBIL, Block, t. 430.
Badi mottah, Russell, pi. 172.

Saurida tombil, Cuv. & Vol. xxii. p. 500; Cantor, Catal. pp. 270, 442.
Saurida tumbil, Gilnther, Catal. v. p. 399;
Arranna, Mai.

B. xiii. D. 12 | 0. P. 16. V. 10. A. 10. C. 19. L. 1. 53-64. L. tr. f.

Length of head ■^I, of pectoral ^, of caudal £-, of base of first dorsal ^, of base of adipose dorsal
about -^, of base of anal ^ of total length. Height of head Jj-, of body T23, of first dorsal \, of
adipose dorsal about ^7, of ventral \, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Oval, with broad adipose lids j upper margins close to the profile : horizontal dia-
meter A, vertical diameter } of length of head, l\ diameters from end of snout, 1 \ diameters

apart.

Body elongated, sub-cylindrical ; head compressed. A raised keel of scales along either side

of the body.

Cleft of mouth very wide, extending to nearly one diameter behind the posterior margin of
the orbit. Posterior extremity of the maxilla reaches nearly to the angle of the preopercle.
Intermaxillaries very long, tapering, extending to the angle of the mouth, and crowded with
teeth. Mandibulas broad, shallow, tapering almost to a point in front, and crowded with teeth.
Lips absent. Posterior margin of the preopercle rather oblique, and convex. Opercles rounded.
Preorbital and anterior suborbitals, festooned in radiating ridges, arising from two points, the
anterior under the snout, the posterior under the centre of the orbit. Interorbital space and
centre of the summit of head with rather a broad, shallow, longitudinal groove. Nostrils double.

Teeth — Several rows of card-like teeth in the upper jaw, the internal the largest, and the
external smallest : the surface of the intermaxillaries on which they are placed is bevilled off, so
as to look outwards. The teeth on the mandibulas are of the same character as the largest internal
and smallest external rows : they are more numerous than in the upper jaw, and placed on a
surface looking upwards and outwards. Teeth on palate in two distinct rows, the internal series
in each of which is the largest, whilst the inner is only one-third the length of the outer row. A
small round patch of teeth on the vomer.

Fins — Pectoral commences rather behind the opercles, and opposite the angle of the
mouth ; first dorsal in the centre of the body, its anterior extremity being as far from the snout as
its posterior is from the root of the caudal : ventral arises midway between the end of the pectoral
and the commencement of the dorsal ; and the anal midway between the end of the ventral and
the base of the caudal : the adipose dorsal is situated over the last two anal rays. The second
ray of the first dorsal is undivided and the longest, the last being not quite a third as long : upper
margin of the fin concave, the last ray rather prolonged. Ventral placed horizontally, with a long
elongated scale at its base, the last ray the longest. Anal with the second ray the longest. Caudal
deeply forked, the upper lobe sometimes the longest.

Scales — With their exposed portions higher than wide : they are present over the body and
head, with some on the base of the caudal fin. A broad triangular scale exists in the axilla.

Lateral line— Eather nearer the back than the abdomen, and on the sixth row of scales. The
number of scales on this row appears to vary ; in several specimens examined at Cochin none had
more than fifty-six. The keel is most developed in the posterior third of the body.

THE FISHES OF MALAl'.Ai:.

201

Colours— Back brownish grey, abdomen silvery, the whole with greenish yellow reflections :
the abdomen finely spotted with black. Dorsal fin diaphanous, with a blackish grey margin.
Pectoral blackish grey. Soft portion of the dorsal with a darkish centre. Ventral greyish, tipped
with white. Anal diaphanous, and tinged with yellow. Caudal tipped with black.

It is never common, but rarely absent in Cochin on the Malabar coast during the cold months
of the year. Eaten by the Natives, but not esteemed as it is dry and insipid. It grows to a foot

in length.

Habitat— Bed Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and the Western Pacific.

Genus HARPODON, pi, Lesueur.

Branchiostegals, from twentv-three to twenty-five: pseudobranchias. Body elongated, rather com-
pressed Eyes small. Muzzle short, gape of mouth wide and cleft very deep, extending far behind the eyes :
ed-e of upper jaw formed entirely by the intermaxillaries, which are thin and long : marilknes absent
(rudimentary according to Valenciennes). First dorsal with a moderate number of rays, central: second or
adipose dorsal small. Pectoral long. Ventral with nine long rays inserted below the anterior ones of the
dorsal. Anal of moderate length. Caudal with three lobes, the lateral line being continued along the
central one Teeth on the intermaxillaries and lower jaw, also on the palatine and hyoid bones, and on the
tongue- the anterior palatine teeth are large and can be laid downwards. Body covered with thin diapha-
nous and deciduous scales: the bones of the head very soft, and partly modified into wxde muciferous
channels : the lateral canal along the body also wide, and having two openings, one above and one below
on each scale. Gill openings wide. Air bladder absent. Pyloric appendages numerous.

* Haepodon neheeeus.

Wana Motta, Russell, pi. 177 {adult),
Osmeeus neheeeus, Ham. Buck. pp. 209, 379 (adult).
Saueus ophiodon, Guv. & Vol. xxii. p. 490.
Saueus neheeeus, Cantor, Catal. p. 273.
Haepodon neheeeus, Giinther, Catal. v. p. 401.
Bombay Duck. Bummaloh.

B xxiii-xxv. D. 12-13 | 0. P. 11-12. V. 9. A. 14-15. C. 19. Vert. 38. Ca3C.pyl.22.

Length of head £, of pectoral from l to \, varying with the age of the fish being shorter
in the adult than in the immature, of caudal \ of the total length. Height of body \, of dorsal
A, of ventral \, of anal r25 of the total length.

Eyes-Diameter & of length of head, 2 diameters from end of snout, 4 diameters apart.

Body elongated, rather compressed, at the occiput its height is one-eighth, opposite first
dorsal one-sixth, and opposite root of caudal one-twelfth of the total length.

Jaws of equal length j the angle of the mouth is situated at the posterior fourth of the head.
The opercles membraneous, diaphanous, and all apparently blended together. The branchiostegous
membrane is narrow, but projects behind the posterior radiated angle of the opercle. The bran-
chiostegous rays hair-like, gradually increasing in length backwards, the posterior are discernible
through the lower portion of the opercle. The nostrils open vertically in front of the anterior
margin of the orbit, the anterior the largest.

Teeth-" All are excessively slender, recurved, and like those of some of the gobioicia?,
erectile, but not flexible. They may be raised or laid down in the manner in which Cuvicr describes

2 D

202 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

the teeth of the genus Salarias, like the keys of a piano. Those of the jaws and some of the
palatals have a single barb at the posterior margin of the point : a few of the former are arrow-
shaped. In both jaws appear three series of somewhat distant teeth : the external consists of
excessively minute ones, the second of longer, and the internal series the longest of all. Those of
the lower jaw are longer than those of the upper, particularly three or four on each side of the
symphysis. The pharyngeal and palatals consist of two series. The fourth anterior tooth of each
palatal is very long. The tongue is very short, linear, and covered with fine teeth, like those of
the hyoid bone and the upper margin of the branchial arches." — (Cantor.)

Fins — The first dorsal is situated midway between the snout and the root of the caudal : the
ventral opposite the dorsal, midway between the snout and the last ray of the anal : the first anal
ray midway between the last ray of the dorsal and the root of the caudal : the adipose dorsal
opposite the posterior third of the anal. The third dorsal ray is the longest, from it they gradually
decrease, the last being but slightly more than one-third the length of the longest. The point of
the ventral reaches to the middle of the anal, a thin elongated scale is situated at its base.
The third anal ray is the longest, and twice the length of the last. The adipose dorsal is rather
large. The caudal divided into three pointed lobes, of which the centre is rather the shortest.
The pectorals are falciform, and in the young reach to the last dorsal ray, but become shorter
with age.

Scales — All are diaphanous, and can but with difficulty be distinguished in the fresh fish.

Lateral line — Rather nearer to the back than to the abdomen : it is slightly keeled with about
forty-four rectangular membraneous pieces, covered with scales like the rest of the body.

Colours — Head, back, and sides light grey, dust-coloured, or semi-transparent like gelatine,
with minute star-like, black or brownish dots : anterior part of the abdomen pale silvery : rest
whitish : cheeks and opercles pale silvery, dotted like the body : fins transparent, coloured like
the body, but more closely dotted, so as to appear pale blackish. Iris bluish silvery, minutely
dotted with black. — (Cantor.)

This fish, which is so exceedingly numerous in North Malabar and Bombay, rarely, if ever,
extends its range so far South as Cochin. It is rich, but highly esteemed as a delicacy imme-
diately after it is taken. Salted and dried it is exported in large quantities from Bombay under
the denomination of Bummalohs or Bombay ducks. It grows to eleven inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, Burmah, Malaysia, and China.

Sub-Order.— C Y P R I N I D M.
Fam. COBITIOIDES, Bleeker.
Genus NEMACHEILUS, v. Hasselt.
Acoura et acourus, Sums.

Branchiostegals, three. Body elongated, anteriorly cylindrical, back low, without any adipose keel.
Eyes with free lids. Lower jaw ending in a sharp point, but not tuberculated. No free suborbital spine.
Cirri six or eight, four on snout, and from two to four on maxilla?. Anterior nostril tubular. Dorsal fins
consisting of few rays, and entirely or mostly situated in the anterior half of the body and opposite the
ventral. No scales on head. An ah bladder, entirely enclosed in a cavity formed by the vertebral
column.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 203

Nemacheilus triangularis, PL XIV. fig. 1.
Nemacheilus triangularis, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 295.

B. iii. D. 0. P. 11. V. 9. A. 6. C. 19.

Length of head about ^, of base of dorsal ^ of base of anal about 2\p of pectoral J, of
caudal \ of the total length. Height of head Ta0, of body i, of dorsal \, of anal j\j of the total
length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter apart, 2 diameters from end of snout ; no
suborbital spine.

Body elongated, fusiform, cylindrical in front, compressed along the sides. From snout to
frontal convex, thence to caudal straight ; interorbital space convex.

Lower jaw shortest : opening of mouth below, and extending as far posteriorly as half the
distance to the orbit ; the end of snout fleshy, and overhanging the mouth ; intermaxillaries pro-
duced downwards, and forming a knob, which is in advance of the lower jaw when the mouth is
closed. Lips rather fleshy. Cirri, four on snout with their bases not united ; two on superior
maxillaries half the length of head. Eyes not covered by any adipose membrane. Nostrils nearer
to the eye than the snout ; anterior tubular, posterior broad and open. Opercle rounded pos-
teriorly.

Fins — Dorsal arises slightly in front of the origin of the ventral, and most of it is situated in
the anterior half of the body. Anal, is entirely in the posterior third of the body. Dorsal square ;
anal slightly rounded ; caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Very distinct over the whole body ; none on the head.

Lateral line — Passes straight from the head towards the centre of the caudal fin, but ceases
abruptly opposite the termination of the anal.

Colours — Yellowish, banded, each band being edged with black; seven along the body,
which meet at the lateral line, and consequently are disposed in a V-shape ; one band passes over
the opercle, a second through the eye, and a third from the orbit to the angle of the mouth.
Dorsal with three irregular rows of black spots. Pectoral, ventral, and anal unspotted, but
darkest at their margins. Three oblique black bands on the caudal, which has a black base.

I am indebted to the Eev. Henry Baker, jun., for this pretty little loach, of which he obtained
two specimens on the hills at Mundikyum.

Habitat — Travancore Hills.

Nemacheilus rubripinnis.
Cobitis rubripinnis, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 332.

B. iii. D. f . A. f . C. 13.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \, of caudal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal \, of anal ^g of total length.

Eyes — Diameter J of length of head, 2 diameters apart, 2 diameters from end of snout.

Profile ascends to the back of the head, from thence straight to the dorsal fin, from whence
it descends gradually to the base of the caudal.

Mouth fleshy, with six cirri.

Fins — Dorsal commences just midway between the snout and the base of the caudal, and
slightly in front of the commencement of the ventral : anal in posterior quarter of the body.

2 d 2

204

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Scales — On the cheeks. Summit of head scaleless.

Lateral line — Straight.

Colours — Body olive green, becoming lightish brown on the sides, and dirty white on the
abdomen. Nine brown bars pass from the back half way to the lateral line, and a number of smaller
ones as well as some irregular bands descend along the sides to just below the lateral line. A
black bar at the base of the caudal, and a black spot on the upper half of the opercle. Dorsal
with two brown bars, the lowest of which is sometimes red. Caudal with three wide brown bars,
and a dark brown tija.

Habitat — Malabar.

Genus PLATACANTHUS, Day.

Branchiostegals three. Body elongate, and moderately compressed : back low : a fleshy keel midway

between termination of the dorsal and commencement of the
caudal fin, on to which it is continued for a short distance. Eyes
veiled. A free bifurcated suborbital spine situated close to the
lower margin of the orbit : snout obtuse, no tubercle on end of
lower jaw. Eight cirri, two on snout, four on superior mamillaries,
and two on lower jaw. Nostrils simple. Dorsal fin arises oppo-
site the ventral in the centre of the body. The internal ray of
the pectoral forming a large flattened spine, half the length of the

soft rays. Caudal emarginate. Scales over opercular and suborbital region. No swimming bladder

apparent.

Platacanthus agrensis. PI. XIV. f. 2.
Platacanthus agrensis, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 296.

B.

D. 7.

r. G.

V.

A. 6. C. 16.

Length of head Jy, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal T^, of base of anal ^, of caudal \ of the
total length. Height of head ^, of body £, of dorsal ^, of anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter ts of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, \ a diameter apart. A
strong bifurcated suborbital spine arises below the orbit close to _its anterior margin, and then
passes backwards with a slight inward curve.

Body elongated and compressed. Profile curving considerably from the snout to opposite the
orbits ; from the back of the head to the caudal it is nearly straight : a raised adipose keel passes
along the posterior sixth of the back, and extends on to the upper surface of the base of the caudal
fin. Sides compressed, but with a slight bulging just before the commencement of the caudal.

Opening of the mouth below, transversely oval, and extending a very short distance posteriorly.
End of snout fleshy and overhanging the mouth. Lips thick, and continuous, no enlargement of
intermaxillaries, or tubercle on the lower jaw. Cirri, two fleshy ones on the snout with their bases
not united ; four on the superior maxillaries, and two on the lower jaw ; the longest cirrus reaches
as far as the eye. Nostrils midway between the orbit and the end of the snout ; neither of them
tubular. Upper margin of the orbit close to the profile. Eyes covered with a veil. Opercles
rounded posteriorly. Intcrorbital space smooth and scaleless.

PLATE \J\.

-

F,f, 1.

J*,

Fig 2.

/. N IS M.ACHKILUS Till .15 1)1' I.AIM s 2. PL \ I VC A X T II I' S A G R I'. N SIS

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 205

Fins — Dorsal arises midway between the snout and tho base of the caudal ; ventral under the
commencement of tho dorsal : whilst tho anal is situated entirely in tho posterior third of the total
length. Pectoral large, the internal rays forming a broad spine, with a flattened extremity inter-
nally, and terminating externally in a soft filamentous and articulated prolongation : the flat portion
of the spine, which is only about half tho length of the soft rays, lies against the sido when the
fin is at rest. The anal with the first ray undivided, and the last divided to the root. Caudal
slightly lobed.

Scales — Very distinct over the whole of the body and cheeks. None on the summit of the
head.

Lateral Hue — Straight.

Coloui's — Light brown with irregular spots and bands. Dorsal spotted with brown. Caudal
with four oblique bars of dark brown, and a brown bar at its base.

Habitat — Trichoor, near Cochin, on the Malabar coast.

Fam. CYPRINOIDES, Meeker.
Sub-Fam. LABEONINI, Meeker.

Group garr,e.

Genus GARKA, Ham. Buck.

Discognathus, Hechel.

Discognathichthys et Lissorhynchus, Bleeker.

Branchiostegals, three : pseudobranchise. Body elongated, subcyhndrical. Mouth destitute of teeth,
directed downwards, jaws protrusible : lower jaw not covered in front by lips, but those of the upper and
lower jaw continuous. No lateral processes to the snout. A suctorial disk on the chin. Cirri four (Garra,
Ham. Buch.) of which one pair are on the snout, the others on the maxilla : or only one pair present
{Discognathus, Heckel) which are situated on the maxillae. Pharyngeal teeth, sharp, conical, and
curved at their extremities, situated in three closely approximating rows 2, 4, 5 | 5, 4, 2. Dorsal with few
rays, no scales along its base: pectoral inserted sub-horizontally. Scales large, cycloid. Lateral line
continuous.

Garra Malabarica. Plate XV. Fig. 1.

Garra Malabarica, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 297.

B. iii. D. |. P. 15. V. 10. A. f . C. 19. L. 1. 81. L. tr. f. Vert. 29.

Length of head &, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^ of total length.
Height of head ^, of body \, of dorsal ], of anal \ of total length.

Eyes— Nearer the posterior than anterior extremity of the head, and with their superior
surfaces on the upper profile looking upwards and outwards. Diameter nearly \ the length of the
head, rather more than 1 diameter from end of snout, nearly 2 diameters apart.

The profile rises as far as the back of the head, from whence to the caudal it is nearly straight :
the abdominal profile as convex as that of the back, sides compressed. Back rather broad, flat,
and nearly as wide as the body is high.

Mouth below, snout broad and depressed, the upper jaw overlapping the lower : the two lips
united, moderately thick and in the young covered with numerous pores which almost disappear

206 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

in the adult. Below the mandibulse is an oval suctorial disk, the transverse diameter of which is
rather more than that of the orbit. One pair of fleshy cirri exists on the snout, and a second pair
at angles of the maxillse. In the skeleton the maxilla is broad, with a thin anterior edge, and an
external extremity inferiorly very concave. The lower jaw is also transverse, broad, flat above,
rather concave below, and at its external superior margin also concave. Owing to the great width
of the lower jaw a hollow exists imder the chin, and here the suctorial disk is situated. The
nostrils are nearer to the orbits than they are to the end of the snout, the posterior is round, the
anterior tubular. Interorbital space nearly flat from side to side, and between it and the snout is
a deep transverse furrow.

Teeth — The inferior pharyngeal teeth are sharp, curved, and in three rows, 2, 4, 5 | 5, 4, 2,
the long plate above them is of an arrow-headed shape, directed posteriorly.

Fins. The dorsal is situated rather nearer the snout than it is to the base of the caudal, and

a little in advance of the ventrals, higher anteriorly than posteriorly,- its base destitute of scales,
and its first three rays flexible though undivided. Pectorals inserted sub-norizontally. Anal
short, situated entirely in the posterior fourth of the body, its commencement being midway
between the posterior extremity of the pectoral and the termination of the lower caudal lobe.
Caudal large, with a broad base, emarginate : its base scaled.

Scales — Large.

Lateral line — Nearly straight from the upper margin of opercle to the centre of the caudal,
and nearer to the back than it is to the abdominal surface.

Colours — Back deep olive, fading to dirty white along the abdomen, and a wide dull leaden
blue stripe passing along the lateral line, and the four central caudal rays, where it is of a shot
green. Cheeks and under surface of mouth pinkish or flesh coloured. Disk dull yellow, and a
slight yellow tinge extends along the abdomen. Anal bright yellow, with minute black points
between the rays : base of pectoral and ventral dull red, the remainder of the fins slate colour.

This fish is found in the rivers of the plains, but more abundantly, and up to eight inches in
length, in the mountain streams. The Rev. Henry Baker, from whom I received my hill speci-
mens, informs me that amongst the Europeans it goes by the name of " the hill trout," and that
it takes a worm pretty freely.

Habitat — Bivers and mountain streams in Malabar.

Gkoup Labeones, Bleeker.

Genus EOHITA, Guv. and Veil

Roiiitodes, Bleeker.

Branchiostegals, three : pseudobranchiae. Body elliptical or moderately elongated. Mouth destitute
of teeth: gape oval : lower jaw thin, and without a tubercle at the symphysis: postlabial sulcus simple.
Lips ctenated or fringed, those of the two jaws continuous, and without lateral lobes ; the end of the
lower jaw uncovered. Preorbital bone touches the margin of the orbit. Cirri four (Eohita, Cuv. & Val.),
of which one pair are on the snout, the other on the maxilla : or only one pair present (Rohitodes, Bleeker),
which are situated on the maxillse. Pharyngeal teeth in three series. Dorsal fin moderate, or elon-
gated, destitute of bony rays, and situated before the commencement of the ventral. Scales large or
moderate.

/'/. XTIi XV.

/'-„ j.

0; •

-->

/■;., 2.

/. G AH HA MAI.A13ARICA. 2. PI NTM S L> I N IX \ I H A T I

/•■ l>o>

V

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 207

EOHITA DUSSUMIEEI.

Eohita Dussumieri, Guv. & Vol. xvi. p. 258, pi. 475.
Cirrhinus Dussumieri, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 304.

Toolee, Mai.

B.iii. D. ^3^. P. 17. V. 9. A.f. C. 19. L. 1. 55. L. tr. f .

Length of head nearly }, of pectoral J, of caudal £, of base of dorsal nearly ], of base of anal 2'0
of the total length. Height of head J, of body above J, of dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal ~'„
of total length.

Eyes— Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 2 diameters apart.

Body elongated, profile slightly rising from the snout to the dorsal fin, from whenco it is nearly
straight to the base of the caudal. The abdominal profilo rather more convex than that of the
back. Thickness of the body equals two-thirds of its height.

Mouth small, inferior, surrounded by fleshy lips, which as well as the mouth are covered with
numerous pores, which extend posteriorly as far as orbits and under the nostrils. One pair of
small fleshy cirri on either side of upper jaw. Some scattered mucous pores along the lower
jaw, and on the horizontal limb of the preopercle. The lips fringed. Preorbital advanced to over
the angle of the mouth. Suborbital ring narrow. Preopercle narrow, its angle rounded, and its
horizontal limb nearly as long as its vertical one. Opercle large, its posterior margin rounded and
ending in a soft flap ; its inferior rather oblique, its superior horizontal. Sub- and interopercles
narrow. Interorbital space smooth, and rather convex.

Fins — The pectoral fin arises in the lower third of the body, under the posterior border of the
opercle : ventral slightly nearer to the base of the pectoral than to that of the anal, and opposite
the third branched ray of the dorsal : anal arises below the thirty-first or thirty-second scale.
Dorsal fin rather in advance of the ventral, long, highest in front, with a concave superior margin,
and the last ray rather produced : first unbranched ray minute, the second fine, only half the leno-th
of the third, which has a soft extremity. The last dorsal and anal rays divided into two at their bases.
Anal with the first hard ray minute, second thin, and the third with soft articulated extremity : ante-
rior extremity of the fin twice the height of the posterior one : its margin straight. Caudal deeply
forked, lobes rather expanded. Ventral fan-shaped. Anus a short distance in front of the anal fin.

Scales — Their longest diameter from above downwards, those on the abdomen smaller than
those on the sides.

Lateral fine— First curves slightly downwards ; from about opposite the posterior end of the
pectoral it generally passes straight to the centre of the caudal, but in some specimens is slightly
undulating in this portion of its course.

Colours — Greyish, darkest above, becoming silvery beneath. Back olive grey. All the scales
edged with a darker shade of grey, and many of them, especially those above the lateral line, have
a golden spot in the centre of each. Fins dusky. There is a dull diffused dark spot on the lateral
line, on the side of the tail, and in some specimens another on the tail.

Common in the Kurriavanoor river near Cochin. When attempts are made to capture these
fish with nets, they take surprising leaps, sometimes even springing over the heads of the boatmen
who are standing up at the time. Immediately on being captured, their necks are broken with a
stick. They grow to about thirteen inches in length, are fair eating, and are greatly esteemed by
the Natives.

Habitat — Rivers of Malabar.

208 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

Sub-Fam. BARBINI, Bleeker.
Geoup systomi, Bleeker.

Genus PUNTIUS, Earn. Buck

Systomus, McClelland.
Baebodes, Bleeker.
Copoeta, Cuv. & Vol.

Branchiostegals, three: pseudobranchiae. Body oblong, sometimes compressed: abdomen more or
less flat. Mouth destitute of teeth, it is of moderate size, and directed forwards : jaws slightly protrusible,
the lower jaw the shortest ; both are covered by the lips. Snout short. Preorbital pentagonal, not elon-
gated, directed upwards, backwards, or downwards, but never directly anteriorly. Lips of the two jaws
continuous, with the postlabial sulcus simple, and parallel with the margin of the jaws. Cirri four (Bar-
bodes, Bleeker), one pair on snout, one on maxilla? : or two (Capoeta, Cuv. & Val.) on the supramaxilkries :
or none (Puntius, Ham. Bueh.). Pharyngeal teeth spoon-shaped summits 2,3,5 | 5,3,2 : or 2,3,3 | 4,3,2 ;
or with tubercular summits 1,3,4 | 4.3,1, or 2,3,4 | 4,3,2. Dorsal fin situated from before to hardly posterior
to the commencement of the ventral, with a row of scales along its base : its first few rays are unbranehed,
and either osseous and serrated, or osseous and entire, or cartilaginous, or have the extremities of all pro-
longed into filaments. Anal short, with a scaly base. Caudal also with some scales over its base. Scales
moderate, cycloid. Lateral line usually continuous, or it may abruptly cease as in the Puntius vittatus, p. 215.

With four cirri (Barbodes, Bleeker.)

1. Unbranehed dorsal rays osseous, and the last serrated posteriorly.

Puntius cheysopoma.

Baebus cheysopoma, Cuv. & Val. xvi. p. 165, pi. 466.
Baebus gibbosus, Cuv. & Val. xv. p. 155.
Systomus cheysopoma, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 314.
Munduttee, Mai.

B. iii. D. f . P. 15. V. 9. A. §. C. 19. L. 1. 28. L. fcr. f .

Length of head \, of pectoral ^, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head \} of body f , of dorsal \, of ventral \ , of anal \ of total length.

Eyes— Diameter in the immature f, in the adult \ of length of head, l\ diameters from end
of snout, 2 diameters apart.

Body elongated, a considerable rise from snout to the occiput, from whence to the dorsal it is
more gradual, and from that fin to the caudal the profile gradually sinks. Abdominal profile is
as convex as that of the back.

Snout short, slightly protractile : the posterior extremity of the maxilla extends to beneath
the anterior margin of the orbit. Preopercle, posterior limb vertical, its angle rounded, its lower
linib horizontal. Opercle irregularly triangular, its posterior margin convex, its upper short and
horizontal. Subopercle rather more than one third as high as long. Interopercle with a rather
irregularly lower margin. Upper surface of head smooth, rather convex, and divided from the
snout by a transverse and moderately deep groove. Nasal cirri equal to two-thirds the diameter
of the orbit in length, and the maxillary cirri rather longer. Nostrils opposite the anterior superior
angle of the orbit.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 209

Fins — Pectoral situated in the lower fourth of body : dorsal arises midway between the snout
and the base of the caudal : the ventral rather more anteriorly : the anal half way between the
base of the ventral and the base of tho caudal. Dorsal rather square, its upper margin slightly
concave, and its two first undivided rays small, tho third half the length of tho fourth, which last
is strong, bony, serrated posteriorly in its upper half, and ending in a soft point : the last branched
ray is divided to its root. First three rays of anal undivided, the two first very thin, the third
moderately strong ; its last branched ray divided to its root. Caudal with a wide base, lobed in
its posterior half.

Scales — Longest diameter vertical, with three or more striae radiating from their anterior
border towards their circumference.

Lateral line — Curves downwards to opposite the end of the pectoral, from whence it proceeds
direct to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Back greenish with silvery reflections, -abdomen silvery. A dull diffused black
mark on either side of the tail, which is often more visible in preserved than in fresh speci-
mens. Cheeks golden. Ventral orange : the other fins grey, the dorsal and caudal margined with
a darker colour, and the anal stained with orange. In immature specimens a dark line exists
along each row of scales, but this becomes lost in the mature fish.

Very common in rivers, and also found in paddy fields and ponds, it is likewise kept in tanks
in Hindu temples. During the monsoon time small ones are carried down to the mouths of the
rivers on the western coast. It grows to upwards of two feet in length, and is good eating.

Habitat — Bombay and fresh waters of Malabar.

Puntius pinnaueatus. Plate XV. Fig. 2.
Cyclocheilichthys pinnaueatus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 300.

B. hi. D. f. P. 17. V. 9. A. §. C. 21. L. 1. 29. L. tr. f .

Length of head above \, of base of dorsal £-, of base of anal yy, of caudal \ of total length.
Height of body J, of head I of total length.

Eyes — Situated in the anterior half of the head, their upper margins do not reach the profile :
diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, upwards of 1 diameter apart.

Profile rises considerably to commencement of the dorsal fin, from whence it sinks more
gradually to the caudal. Profile of abdomen not so convex as that of the back. Body strongly
compressed.

Mouth directed forwards, the lower jaw covered by the upper when the two are closed.
Preorbital triangular, apex directed above. Two pairs of cirri, those on snout equal two-thirds the
length of the maxillary pair, which are nearly as long as the orbit. Nostrils situated nearer to
the orbit than to the snout : the posterior patent, divided by a membraneous valve from the
anterior, which is slightly tubular.

Fins — Dorsal commences midway between the snout and base of caudal, and is slightly in
advance of the ventral : anal situated in the posterior fourth of the body : pectoral just reaches the
ventral, which does not extend quite so far as the anal. Dorsal nearly triangular, its third undivided
ray bony and serrated in its upper three-fourths : a row of scales along the base of the fin. Anal
undivided rays weak, lower margin of the fin concave : a row of scales along its base. Caudal
deeply lobed.

Scales — Each with from eight to ten radiating lines passing from the anterior margin, and
diverging posteriorly.

2 E

210 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Lateral line — In single distinct tubes in each scale : it first descends slightly for six scales,
and opposite the centre of the opercle passes direct to the caudal.

Colours — Silvery, with a large diffused black spot on the lateral line, extending from the
twenty-fourth to the twenty-eighth scale. A red spot on opercle. Dorsal and pectoral tinged
with red, and minutely spotted with black, as are also the bases of the scales and the various pieces
of the opercles. External half of ventral bright orange- scarlet ; anal tipped with red : both
minutely dotted with black. Caudal stained with black.

From a small pond in Cochin.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Malabar.

2. Unbranched dorsal rays cartilaginous, and articulated in their whole extent.

Puntius melanampyx. Plate XVI. Fig. 1.
Labeo melanampyx, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 298.

B. iii. D. f. P. 16. V. 9. A. f. C. 18. L. 1. 20. L. tr. f .

Length of head f , of pectoral J, of base of dorsal T23, of base of anal TT, of caudal § of total
length. Height of head J, of body J, of dorsal J, of anal } of total length.

Eyes — Diameter nearly \ length of head, upwards of 1 diameter from end of snout, and 1J
apart.

Profile ascends to anterior margin of the dorsal, from whence to the caudal it gradually
descends. Abdomen rather flat below, its profile not so convex as that of the back : sides com-
pressed.

Mouth rather small, directed forwards and slightly downwards, upper jaw rather longer than
the lower. Lips continuous from upper to lower jaw : lower hp with numerous fine pores,
thickened below the symphysis. Preorbital rather triangular, with the base anterior. Snout bulging
and laterally rather swollen, both it and the preorbital are covered by crenations : some widely
scattered pores exist over the whole of the upper surface of the head. Nostrils nearer to the orbit
than to the end of the snout, anterior tubular, and separated by a membraneous valve from the
posterior which is oval and patent.

Teeth — Pharyngeal teeth in three rows, crooked and sharp, 4, 3, 2, | 2, 3, 4.

Fins — Dorsal arises midway between snout and base of caudal, it is slightly in advance of the
origin of the ventral, which is sub -horizontal : the anal arises midway between the posterior
extremity of the opercle and the termination of the caudal, and is entirely posterior to the whole
of the dorsal. Caudal deeply lobed. Dorsal and anal fins with a row of scales at their bases.
Pectoral reaches almost to the ventral, the tip of which last nearly touches the anal.

Scales — Large.

Lateral line — Slightly descends.

Colours — Eeddish brown with three vertical black bands, one behind the eye, a second anterior
to the base of the dorsal fin, which is wide at its origin but narrows close to the ventral : a third
from the termination of the dorsal, crosses the lateral line, but does not reach the base of the anal :
occasionally a fourth crosses the base of the caudal. Muzzle black. Fins dusky. Eyes reddish.

I am indebted to the Rev. H. Baker, junior, of Cottayam, for several specimens of this fish,
which he captured in the river on the hills at Mundikyum, where it is common, and grows to three
inches in length.

Habitat — Hill ranges of Travancore.

I'L.ITE XVI.

Fig J .

Fig

/' /><i\\ ,li-/.,/ sculp.

I IMX'I'II S M K I. \ S \ M 1' 1 "\ IM'I NTII'S II E.XI S n.\ II

THE PISHES OP MALABAR. 211

With '2 cirri (Capoeta, Ouv. & Val.)
1. Unbranched dorsal rays osseous but entire.

PUNTIUS PABEAH. Plate VII. Fiji'. 3.

? Puntius amphibius, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 315 (not Cuv. & Val.)
Puntius paerah, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G5, p. 301.
Paebah perlee, Mai.

B. iii. D. §. P. 15. V. 8. A. §. C. 19. L. 1. 25. L. fcr. |.

Length of head \. of base of dorsal -J-, of base of anal T]^, of pectoral \, of caudal \ of
total length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal ^, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter nearly -J of length of head, almost 1^ diameters apart, and 1 diameter from
end of snout.

Profile curves gradually to the dorsal, descends along its base, and from its posterior extremity
proceeds almost horizontally to the caudal. The height of the body is four-elevenths of its length,
excluding the caudal fin.

One pair of thin cirri to maxillaa which are equal to two-thirds of the length of the orbit.
Opercle, width four-sevenths of its height, subopercle two-fifths as high as long. Nostrils nearer
to the orbit than to the end of the snout, the posterior patent, and divided by a valve from the
anterior which is slightly tubular.

Fins —Dorsal commences midway between the snout and base of the caudal, and just over the
ventral : its bony ray strong, smooth, and with a soft termination : its length equals the distance
from the centre of orbit to the posterior extremity of opercle : the upper surface of fin rather concave,
its two posterior rays elongated. The anal arises behind the posterior margin of the dorsal, midway
between the orbit and the end of the caudal, its external margin concave. Caudal deeply lobed.
The pectoral does not quite reach the ventral : nor the ventral the anal, by the width of two scales.

Scales — In regular horizontal rows, but in the one above the lateral line the fourth scale is
rather large, and two rows commence behind it. Each scale has generally from three to four
diverging lines, but in some there are more, especially along the abdominal surface.

Lateral fine — Follows curve of the back in upper third of body.

Colours — Upper surface of back dark silvery green, divided from a silvery abdomen by a dark
bluish line. Cheeks golden red. Pectoral, ventral and anal tinged with yellow. Dorsal and
caudal dusky. A diffused black spot on the lateral line extending from the twentieth to twenty-
second scale. Eyes golden.

Common in the rivers and inundated paddy fields of Malabar.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Malabar.

Puntius perlee.

B. iii. D. f. P. 15. V. 10. A. f . C. 19. L. 1. 24. L. tr. f.

Length of head § , of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal j1^, of pectoral ^, of caudal \ of the
total length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal \, of anal J of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head, | of a diameter from end of snout, TJ.- diameters apart.

Body high and compressed, a considerable rise from the snout to the first dorsal, from whence
it sinks to the base of the caudal. Abdominal profile not so convex as that of the back.
The height of the body is one half its length, excluding the caudal fin.

2 e 2

212 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Mouth rather oblique. Opercle nearly triangular, two-thirds as wide as high, upper margin
rather concave. Subopercle half as high as long. Maxillary pair of cirri two-thirds of the
length of the head.

Fins — The pectoral arises under the posterior third of the subopercle, and extends beyond
the base of the ventral. Ventral with an enlarged scale at its base, and it reaches as far as the
commencement of the base of the anal. The anal arises rather behind the origin of the last dorsal
rays, its first unbranched ray is very short, its second one half shorter than the third, which equals
the distance from the posterior nostril to the posterior extremity of opercle, and ends in a soft
point : the last branched ray double and prolonged so as to reach the base of the caudal. Dorsal
commences midway between snout and base of caudal, its first unbranched ray is minute, its second
half the length of the third, which is strong, osseous, concave posteriorly, and ending superiorly
in a soft prolongation : its last branched ray double, and reaches half way from its base towards
the caudal fin. Caudal rather deeply lobed, with each of its extremities pointed.

Scales — High and narrow, the external portion one half higher than wide, with two or three
badly marked radiating lines. A row exists along the base of the dorsal and anal fins. Opposite
and above the sixth row of the lateral line a second row of scales commences.

Lateral line — Rather descends for five scales, then becomes slightly convex to the twenty-
third scale, from whence it proceeds direct to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Silvery green above, silvery white shot with gold below the lateral line. Cheeks
golden. Fins yellowish. Dorsal and caudal minutely dotted with fine points, a few also are
scattered on the scales. A badly marked black blotch exists on the lateral line from the twenty-
second to the twenty-third scales inclusive.

Very common in all pieces of fresh water.

Habitat — Malabar.

3. Unbranched dorsal rays cartilaginous, and articulated in their whole extent.

Puntius Denisonii, Plate XVI. Fig. 2.
Labeo Denisonii, Bay, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 299.

B. iii. D. f . P. 15. V. 9. A. f C. 19. L. 1. 28. L. tr. f .

Length of head £, of pectoral }, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^ , of caudal I of total
length. Height of head ^, of body J, of dorsal £, of anal T^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter about J of length of head, rather more than 1 diameter apart, 1^ diameters
from end of snout.

Body elongated, compressed : profile from snout to dorsal slightly elevated, from whence to
the caudal it gradually slopes.

Mouth small, directed forwards and slightly downwards, the upper jaw being the longest, and
snout slightly prominent, with a small expansion laterally on either side, and pores on its apex : the
lower jaw curves slightly upwards at its extremity, and has a small tubercle on the upper surface of
the symphysis. Upper and lower lips continuous, edges entire, and a little thickened so as to
forrn a small lobe below the symphysis of the lower jaw. Sulcus simple, not very deep. Preorbital
irregularly triangular, longer than high, rounded anteriorly. Maxillary cirri one pair, fleshy, and

THE PISHES OK MALABAR. 213

one-third longer than the orbit. Nostrils nearer orbit than end of snout, the posterior closed by a
membraneous valve, the margin of the anterior slightly elevated, so as to appear semi-tubular.

Teeth — In pharyngeals in three closely approximating rows, sharp, pointed, and slightly
curved towards their extremities 4,3,2 | 2,3,4.

Fins — The commencement of the dorsal is the width of two scales nearer the snout than to the
base of the caudal, and the fin is in advance of tho ventral. Anal situated in the posterior quarter
of the body, and entirely behind the termination of the dorsal. Dorsal highest in front, with a
row of scales along its base. A large free scale at the base of the ventral, which fin is rounded.
Anal highest anteriorly. Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Large.

Lateral line — Curved slightly in its anterior portion, then passing direct to the caudal.

Air bladder with a constriction, dividing one-third from the remaining two-thirds.

Colours — Silvery, with a line of black passing from the snout through the lower part of the
eye to the centre of the base of the caudal fin : above it a wide line of bright scarlet, extending the
same distance. Back glossy metallic blue ; abdomen silvery white. Caudal with an oblique black
band crossing the posterior third of each lobe. The other fins colourless.

I received several specimens of this very pretty fish from the Rev. H. Baker, jun. who ob-
tained them in the stream at Mundikyum, in tho hill ranges of Travancore, where it is not uncom-
mon, and grows to about six inches in length. It is named after//. E. Sir W. Denison, K.C.B.,
the Governor of Madras, who has devoted much attention to the natural productions of India.

Habitat — Hill ranges of Malabar.

PUNTIUS HaMILTONII.

? Systomus Hamiltonii, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 316.

OOLEE PEELEE, Mai.

B. hi. D. |. P. 17. V. 9. A. f. C. 19. L. 1. 24. L. tr. f.

Length of head T2T, of pectoral \, of caudal T?r, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal -j^ of
total length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal \, of ventral \, of anal } of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter § of length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Profile gradually ascends to the base of the dorsal fin, and sinks from thence to the caudal.
The abdominal profile is about equally curved with that of the back.

Snout short : the posterior extremity of the maxilla extends as far as the anterior margin of
the orbit. One pair of cirri on the maxilla, equal to about half the length of the orbit.

Fins — The pectoral commences under the posterior extremity of the subopercle, and opposite
its lower third : the dorsal opposite the end of the pectoral : the anal below the fifteenth scale of
the lateral hue. Pectoral fin pointed. Dorsal spines thin and weak, articulated in their whole
extent, the first very short, the second two-thirds the length of the third, which equals the first
branched ray : upper margin of fin rather concave. Ventral, first ray undivided, a very small
elongated scale at its base. Anal nearly square, its first unbranched ray very minute, in some
specimens indeed, not to be discovered ; the second and third very weak and thin. Caudal with
a broad base, and rather deeply lobed.

Scales — With rarely more than two or three radiating lines on their exposed portions : the rows
are not quite parallel, opposite and above the fifth scale of the lateral line a new one commences.

214 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Lateral line — Slopes gradually down from the posterior superior margin of opercle to opposite
the end of the pectoral, from whence it proceeds nearly direct to the centre of the caudal.

Colours — Back green, abdomen silvery, a slight golden tinge on the opercle, and a dark
diffused spot on tho lateral line from the twenty-first to the twenty-third scales. Dorsal stained
rather dark along its upper margin. Pectoral, ventral and anal yellowish. Caudal dirty white.
In the monsoon time a beautiful rosy streak extends from the eye to the centre of the caudal fin ;
the back is of a more olive green, and the fins redder.

When young the summit of the head is golden green, and a yellow streak runs from opposite
the centre of the eye to the centre of the tail. When about two inches in length the black spot
on the side of the tail commences to appear, and by degrees the golden streak along the side dis-
appears.

Grows to five or six inches in length.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Southern India.

With no cirri (Puntius, Ham. Buch.)
1. Unbranched dorsal rays osseous, the last serrated posteriorly.

Puntius punctatus, Plate VII. f. 1.

Puntius punctatus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 302.
Putter perlee, Mai.

B. iii. D. f . P. 15. V. 8. A. §. C. 18. L. 1. 27. L. tr. f.

Length of head J, of pectoral I, of base of dorsal f, of base of anal ^0, of caudal 1 of total
length. Height of head £, of body -J, of dorsal A of total length.

Eyes— Large, close to profile, nearly J the length of head, J of a diameter from end of snout,
nearly 1 diameter apart.

The posterior extremity of maxilla does not extend quite to the anterior margin of the orbit.
Suborbital ring of bones very broad, almost entirely hiding the preopercle. Sub- and inter-
opercles narrow.

Fins — Pectoral arises opposite the posterior inferior angle of the subopercle : the ventral, one
scale beyond the extremity of the pectoral : anal just under the dorsal, opposite the fifteenth scale
on the lateral line. Dorsal fin highest in front, superior border concave : its first unbranched ray
very minute, second nearly half the height of the third, which is strong, broad, and serrated in the
upper two-thirds of its posterior margin : a row of scales along its base. Pectoral pointed. Ven-
tral with a large elongated scale at its base. Anal with its first unbranched ray very minute, often
quite hidden. Caudal with a broad base, and moderately lobed.
Scales — With two or three radiating lines.

Lateral line — At first curves gradually downwards, and from opposite the base of the ventral
passes direct to the caudal.

Colours— Olive green above, gradually fading into silvery on the abdomen. A black diffused
spot on the twentieth and twenty-first scales of the lateral line. The anterior half of the fourth
scale from the opercle in the row next the lateral fine is of a deep black, as is also a portion of
the scale above, and that beneath it. Fins yellowish, dorsal and anal tipped with orange. Dorsal

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 215

spotted with black, in two longitudinal rows, with a third in the front part between the other two.
The dark markings are much more visible in the months when the freshes are coming down.

Common ; eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — Malabar.

2. Unbranched dorsal rays osseous, but entire. Lateral line ceasing abruptly.
Puntius vittatus. Plate XIII. Fig. 1.
Puntius vittatus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 303.

B. iii. D. |. P. 12. V. 9. A. f . C. 20. L. 1. 22. L. tr. f.

Length of head §, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal yj , of caudal f of total
length. Height of head \, of body \ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ the length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, 2 diameters apart.

Fins — Pectoral commences under the subopercle : ventral two scales beyond its termination :
dorsal opposite the seventh scale of the lateral line : anal one scale beyond the end of the ventral.
Pectoral pointed. Anal with the last ray divided into two. Caudal deeply lobed, each lobe
pointed. Dorsal spines entire, in some specimens there is a very small one before the two others,
but this is not always the case.

Scales — With four or more radiating lines.

Lateral line — Consists of a single tube in each scale : it passes for about five rows along the
central fine and there ceases.

Colours — Upper surface of body dusky green, abdomen silvery. Cheeks sometimes golden.
There are four black spots in the adult, one just before the dorsal, one under its posterior margin,
another at the base of the caudal, and the fourth at the base of the anal. The dorsal has a black
streak down it, and a black tip, with orange markings. In the immature the colours vary. When
the fish is about eight-tenths of an inch long, a vertical black stripe begins to show itself in the
posterior third of the dorsal fin, the tip of which also becomes edged with black, and there is
some irregular orange coloration about the fin. A black spot shows itself at the base of the caudal
and anal fins ; and in very young specimens the line of demarcation between the green of the back
and the silver of the abdomen is very apparent, and seems as if a white line passed from the eye
to the centre of the caudal.

Earely grows to more than an inch and a half in length, and is the most common species
found in the paddy fields. It is eaten by the slave castes.
Hab itat — Malab ar .

2. Unbranched dorsal rays osseous, entire .-the branched dorsal rays with filamentous prolongations.

Puntius filamentosus.

Leuciscus filamentosus, Cuv. & Vol. xvii. p. 96, pi. 492.
Leuciscus Mahecola, Cuv. & Vol. xvii. p. 305, pi. 502, {young.)
Systomus filamentosus, assimilis, et Maderaspatensls, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv.
pp. 318, 319.

CURROAH, Mai.

B. iii. D. f . P. 17. V. 9. A. f . C. 15. L. 1. 21. L. tr. f.

Length of head 1, of pectoral T2g, of caudal § , of base of dorsal rather above }, of base of

21G THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

anal X- of total length. Height of head ^, of body above ^, of dorsal fin excluding its fila-
mentous prolongation \, of dorsal including its filamentous prolongation \, of ventral -j^, of anal
\ of total length.

Eyes — Circular, diameter f of length of head, nearly 1 diameter from end of snout, 1^ dia-
meters apart.

Body rather elliptical, compressed, narrower posteriorly than anteriorly : profile rising from
snout to the first dorsal from whence it sinks but more gradually to the caudal. Abdominal profile
more convex than that of the back.

Mouth rather small, slightly oblique, the maxilla extends to beneath the anterior margin of
the orbit. Opercle triangular, base in front, and posterior extremity rounded. Preopercle narrow,
posterior margin slightly oblique, inferior nearly horizontal, angle rounded. Preorbital nearly
square, extending forwards slightly over the maxilla, the anterior portion of the suborbital ring of
bones narrowest, upper surface of head smooth, rather a notch between it and snout. Nostrils
situated in front of the anterior superior angle of the orbit.

Teeth — Pharyngeal teeth curved, pointed, and in three rows, 5, 3, 2 | 2, 3, 5.

Fins — The pectoral arises in the lower fourth of the body, and under the posterior margin of
the opercle : dorsal rather nearer snout than base of caudal : ventral under fourth dorsal ray : anal
midway between base of pectoral and posterior extremity of lower lobe of the caudal. Dorsal with
its first three rays unbranched, the first of which is very small, the second nearly half the length
of the third, which ends in a soft point, and is often as long as the first branched ray : the whole
of the branched rays end in filamentous prolongations, which are usually absent in the young
(Leuciscus Mahecola, C. §• V.). The third, fourth and fifth are mostly the longest, in certain
seasons they appear to lose their prolongations, and generally one or more are deficient. The
membrane between the rays only extends two-thirds of their height. Anal with external margins
rather concave. Caudal with wide lobes.

Scales — Large, vertical diameter the longest, each with three or more lines radiating towards
their circumference.

Lateral line — Concave, parallel with the abdomen to opposite the end of the dorsal, when it
proceeds direct to the centre of caudal. A row of scales along the bases of dorsal and anal fins.

Colours — Silvery white with a greenish back, and a diffused black spot on the lateral line at
the side of the tail; each scale is margined with a beautiful metallic green. Pectoral flesh-
coloured : ventral colourless : anal margined with deep red : caudal red tipped with black, and
having a white extremity.

Common in some tanks and also found in rivers. Is considered good eating by the Natives.
Grows to eight inches in length.

Habitat — Fresh waters of Malabar and the Coromandel coast.

Group CATL.E, Bleeker.

Genus AMBLYPHAEYNGODON, Bleeker.
Brachygeamma, Day.

Branchiostegals, three : pseudobranchiaa. Body elongated, sides compressed, abdomen rather flat
beneath. Snout short, broad, depressed. Preorbital triangular, apes directed downwards. No cirri.
Eyes of moderate size, with free circular lids. Mouth anterior, gape wide, cleft oblique and of moderate

/'/..i /■/■: xvn

FCg J .

Fig 2.

/' Day, <{</,./ ,*atlp

A M II L V P H A R V N O O D OM JEH.DOK1I. 2. PARA DAN I 0 AlKdLI.N E A T V S

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 217

length: jaws completely covered by (lie lips: posterior labial sulcus simple on either side. Centre of
upper jaw emarginate to receive a knob which exists at the symphysis of the lower jaw. Opercles smooth.
Scales small and deciduous. Lateral line curves downwards and ceases abruptly opposite ventral fin.
Dorsal fin short, its base without scales, it arises behind the commencement of the vcntrals, bat docs not
extend so iar as to above the anal. Anal short, without bony rays, commencing behind the end of dorsal.
Branchial aperture cleft to below the eyes. Pharyngeal teeth in three rows, large, molar like, with their
free surfaces concave or spoon-shaped, 1, 2, 8 J 3, 2, 1.

Amblypiiai:yx<;oI)ux Jekdoxi. Plate XVII. Fiff. 1.

Bbachygbamma Jeedoni, 1%, Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G5, p. 304.
Wumboo. Mai.

B. iii. D.f. P. 15. V. 9. A. f. C. 19. L. 1. 63. L. tr. \P.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal fa, of caudal \ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal f, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — The lower margins of the orbits are as close to the inferior, as their upper margins are to
the superior profile of the head. Diameter \ of length of head, a little more than ^ a diameter
from end of snout, 1| diameters apart.

Profile rises gradually from the snout to the posterior end of the head, from whence there is
a gradual decline to the caudal. The abdominal profile is rather more convex than that of the
dorsal. Sides compressed, abdomen rather flat. Head compressed from side to side. Snout
broad and depressed.

Mouth moderate in size and oblique, lower jaw the longest, armed with a hook at its sym-
physis, which is received into a corresponding emargination in the upper jaw. When the mouth
is closed the upper surface of the lower jaw forms a portion of the superior profile of the head.
Lips thin, covering both jaws. Muzzle apparently rather pointed when the jaws are closed.
Intermaxillaries slightly protrusible. Preorbital triangular, apex below. Nostrils close to the
anterior superior angle of the orbit, posterior broad and patent, divided by a valve from the
anterior, the margins of which are raised. Opercle smooth and nearly triangular. Gill openings
wide, and extending as far forwards as opposite the posterior margin of the orbits.

Fins — Dorsal arises rather nearer to the caudal than to the snout, is slightly behind the origin
of the ventral, but does not extend as far backwards as to above the commencement of the anal,
both are square : anal situated in the posterior third of the body, and arising midway between the
orbit and the end of the inferior lobe of the caudal. Caudal deeply lobed.

Teeth — Pharyngeal short, wide and transversely oval : summits concave, both from side to
side, and from before backwards, in fact similar to the concave sui'face of a spoon, 3, 2, 1 | 1, 2, 3.

Scales — Extremely deciduous, very small on the chest and as far as the ventral fins.

Lateral hue — Formed of long single tubes in each scale. It only extends along fifteen rows,
curving downwards, and then ceases.

Colours — Greenish above, silvery below. A bright silvery greenish yellow line separates the
green of the back from the silvery sides and abdomen. Summit of head bright green. Inside of
mouth and lips closely spotted with black. Fins colourless. Eyes white.

Is not uncommon in the rivers and ponds. I have named the species after Dr. Jerdon, who
records two of this genus which he discovered in Southern India.
Habitat — Malabar.

2 p

218 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Genus BARILIUS, Ham. Buck.
Opsaeion, McClelland.
Pachystomus, Meckel.
Bendilisis et Shacra, Blether.

Branchiostegals, three : pseudobranchiee. Body oblong, moderately compressed. Snout short, com-
pressed. Jaws covered by lips. Preorbital pentagonal or triangular, its apex directed upwards. Opening
of mouth large : lower j a w with a knob at its extremity, received into an emargination in the end of the
upper jaw. Cirri four (Barilius, Ham. Buck) on the snout ; or two (Bendilisis, Bleeker) on the maxilla*,
or none (Pachystomus, Heckel). Eyes with free lids. Pharyngeal teeth in three rows, pointed and
curved. Dorsal fin without scales at its base, and placed above or behind the commencement of the ventral.
Anal with more rays than the dorsal. Scales large or of medium size. Lateral line strongly concave.

a. Without cirri (Pachystomus, Heckel).
Barilius Bakeri. Plate XVIII.
Barilius Bakeri, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G5, p. 305.

B.iii. D.tV P. 15. V. 10. A. f\. C. 17. L. 1. 38. L. tr. §.

Length of head \, of pectoral 1 of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \, of caudal f of the
total length. Height of head \, of body f , of dorsal \, of anal ) of total length.

Eyes— Diameter about \ of length of head, \\ diameters apart, 1 diameter from end of snout.

Profile more convex on the ventral than on the dorsal aspect.

Gape of mouth large, directed forwards, and compressed from side to side. Lower jaw slightly
the longest, terminating in a knob, which is received into the apex of a triangle formed by the
meeting of the intermaxillaries. Lips not fleshy ; jaws entirely covered ; some pores exist along
the margin of the lower lip, on the snout, and on the anterior margin of the preorbital. Sulcus
single, not deep : snout rather enlarged at its extremity, and divided by a small fissure from the
margin of the preorbital, which is pentagonal, its inferior border being the longest. Nostrils
rather closer to the orbit than to the end of the snout, divided from one another by a membraneous
valve, the posterior broad and open, the anterior with raised margins. Upper surface of head
rather convex from side to side.

Fins Dorsal commences nearly midway between the snout and the base of the caudal,

opposite the middle of the ventral, and extends backwards as far as opposite the fourth ray of
the anal. Caudal deeply forked, the lower lobe the longest. Anterior margins of the dorsal and
anal the highest, the former with a slightly convex, the latter with a concave margin. Base of
dorsal scaleless, of anal scaled ; two long free scales at the base of the ventral ; some scales at the
base of caudal.

Scales — Large and bneated.

Lateral line— In single tubes on each scale. It descends nearly as low as the abdominal
profile, and is continued nearly parallel with it.

Teeth — Pharyngeal in three rows, curved, pointed, and slightly hooked at their extremities.
They are arranged in the following order : — 5,4,2 | 2,4,5.

Colours— Back bluish grey, fading to white on the abdomen. Some metallic silvery blue
spots along the sides. Dorsal, anal, and pectoral fins margined with white ; their bases dark grey.
Caudal grey in the centre and whitish externally.

J'L.ITK Will

i

F.J>ay,ekl,et acuip ,

11 A I! 1 1.1 r S BAKE H I

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 219

I have named this fish after my excellent correspondent the Rev. H. Baker, Jan. who obtained
several specimens of it at Mundikyum, on the Travancore hills, where it grows to six inches in length.

The Opsarius Malabaricus, Jerdon, from North Malabar, appears to be allied to this species,
but is much more beautiful in its coloration, and differs apparently in the number of rays, scales,
and position of the fins.

Habitat— Hill ranges of Travancore, in South Malabar.

Group DANIONES.
Genus PAEADANIO.*

Branchiostegals, three. Body oblong, strongly compressed. Profile of back almost straight, that of
the abdomen very convex. Lips thin. Mouth antero-superior, cleft moderately oblique: the superior
jaws emargmate, the symphysis of the lower jaw hooked. Preorbital triangular, apex below. No cirri.
Eyes with free fids. Pharyngeal teeth in three rows, pointed and curved. Dorsal fin without scales at its
base; no hard rays to fin: it is situated behind the ventral, and its posterior portion is over the com-
mencement of the anal. Anal elongated, with more rays than the dorsal. Scales of moderate size, or
small. Lateral line strongly concave, situated near to the abdominal profile.

Paeadanio aurolineatus, Plate XVII. f. 2.
Perilampus aurolineatus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 30G.

B. iii. D. TV P. 14. V. 7. A. t\. C. 19. L. 1.34-40. L. tr. f.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal 1 of base of anal £, of caudal I of the total
length. Height of head \, of body I, of dorsal \, of anal } of total length.

Eyes— Diameter J length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Profile slightly raised to base of dorsal, from whence it gradually sinks to the caudal; the
inferior surface of the body much more convex than that of the back. The upper margin of the
lower jaw when closed is flush with the upper surface of the head.

Mouth oblique. Lower jaw the longest; the extremity covered by a knob which is received
into an emarginate space formed by the intermaxillaries. Lips thin, covering the jaws. Preorbital
small, irregularly quadrilateral, the lower extremity the smallest, forming a sort of apex. Superior
margin of orbit close to profile. Upper surface of head nearly flat. Opercles smooth.

Teeth— Pharyngeals curved and pointed : the external row much the largest— 5,4,1 I 1,4,5.

Fins— Dorsal arises rather nearer to the snout than to the posterior extremity of 'the caudal'
but is entirely situated in the last half of the body; anal arises opposite the dorsal. Caudal
lobed. Pectoral just reaches the ventral, which does not extend to the anal. Anterior extremities
of the dorsal and anal the highest. Margin of dorsal convex, of anal slightly concave.

* Dr. Sleeker having examined the species described in this work, considers that it might constitute
a sub-genus of his Danio, Ham. Buch. et Perilampus, Bleeker, and suggests that it might be termed
Paradanio, which may be distinguished from the Danio by the absence of cirri, and by the inferior jaw
having a more horizontal direction. As to my knowledge, this species is only one of a very large group in
Southern India, I have placed it in a distinct genus, which would come next to Dr. Bleeker's Danio.

I f 2

220 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Scales — With well-marked lines radiating from their anterior margins. The rows run obliquely
towards the back.

Lateral line — Strongly concave, situated in the lower fifth of the body, and parallel with the
abdomen.

Colours — Four horizontal yellow fines pass from the head to the tail, the highest and lowest
of which are much less brilliant than the others : between these lines the colour is bright blue.
Lower part of the abdomen silvery. A bright blue spot on the opercle. Fins finely dotted with
black. A dark line rims along the centre of the caudal.

Common in the rivers of Malabar, and also found in most of the tanks of stagnant water. Is
eaten by the Natives. Grows to three inches in length. It is closely allied to Perilampus Mala-
baricus, Jerdon (which I conclude belongs to this genus) : but has one ray less in the dorsal and
anal fins, and the coloration differs, as the Perilampus Mulabaricus is said to have vertical streaks
and spots of yellow, &c.

Habitat — Malabar.

Genus BASBOEA, Blceker.

Branchiostegals, three : pseudobranchise. Body oblong or moderately elongated ; abdomen rounded.
Snout sbarp, depressed : jaws covered by lips. Cleft of mouth oblique : tip of lower jaw hooked. Pre-
orbital pentagonal. No cirri. Eyes with free lids. Pharyngeal teeth in three rows, hooked. Dorsal
fin with scales at its base, situated behind the ventral. Anal short. Scales large or of moderate size.
Lateral fine strongly concave.

Easbora Malabarica.
Leuciscus Malabaricus, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. p. 320.

KOKANUTCHEE, Mai.

B. iii. D. f. P. 15. V. 9. A.f. C. 19. L. 1. 34. L. tr. J.

Length of head \, of base of dorsal j1^, of base of anal rJg, of caudal \ of the total length.
Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter above J of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, upwards of 1 dia-
meter apart.

Profile rises gradually to a little before the first dorsal, and then still more gently slopes to
the root of the caudal. Abdominal surface about as convex as that of the back. Side compressed,
and the head still more so.

Mouth oblique, and directed slightly upwards, with a short protuberance at the apex of the
lower maxilla, which is received into a corresponding fissure in the intermaxillaries. Snout appears
rather elevated. Preorbital irregularly quadrangular.

Fins — Pectoral situated under the margin of the posterior third of the subopercle. Ventral
arises two scales beyond its extremity, and one scale in front of the dorsal : anal arises opposite
the twenty-first scale of the lateral lin»» The dorsal is highest in front. First unbranched ray
rather more than half as long as the second, which is the highest : last ray not half as high as the
anterior part of the fin. Anal with the first unbranched ray very short, the second nearly half as

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

221

high as tho third, the last being half as high as the front of the fin. Caudal cleft in its posterior
two-thirds, the lobes pointed.

Scales — None on the bases of the fins.

Lateral line— Commences opposite the upper margin of the operclc, and curves downwards
until it reaches the fifth scale, from whence it follows the curve of the abdomen to the lower half

of the caudal.

Colours— Back greenish. A narrow streak of yellow passes from the eye to about the centre
of the caudal fin, and beneath this there is a broad leaden-coloured line. The whole of the fish
has a purplish reflection. Fins reddish orange. Caudal tipped with black.

Very common in the rivers, small streams, and tanks of Malabar. It takes a fly or bait

readily.

Habitat — Malabar.

Fam. CYPRINODONTOIDES, Bleeker.
Sub-Fam. APLOCHEILIFORMES, Bleeker.

Genus PANCHAX, Cuv. and Vol.

Branehiostegals, from five to six: pseudobranchias absent. Body elongated, sides compressed, upper
surface of head and muzzle broad and depressed ; jaws protractile. Maxilla thrown behind the descending
branch of the intermaxillary, so that only the lower part contributes to form the angle of the mouth.
Teeth in jaws in several rows, of which the external is the largest : a narrow band of minute teeth on the
vomer. Dorsal fin short, a portion of it being placed opposite to the commencement of an elongated anal.
Scales large or of moderate size, extended over the head.

PANCHAX LINEATUM.

Panchax lineatum, Cuv. & 'Vol. xviii. p. 381, pi. 346.

Aplocheilus cheysostigmus, McClelland, J. A. S. xix. p. 301.

Aplocheilus vittatus, rubrostigma et affinis, Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv. pp. 330,

331.
B v-vi D. 8-9. P. 15. V. 6. A. 15-17. C. 19. L. 1. 34. L. tr. 9.
Len-th of head \, of pectoral T2T, of caudal nearly \, of base of dorsal ^ °f base °f anal TT
of total length. Height of head \, of body ft, of dorsal ,% of ventral ft, of anal J of total

^Eyes-Oval, upper margins close to the profile. Horizontal diameter J, and vertical diameter
i- of length of head, 2 diameters apart, lj diameters from end of snout.

Body elongated, laterally compressed. Upper surface of head broadly depressed. Profile
straight from the end of the upper jaw along the back, but that of the abdomen more curved.

Mouth large, broad anteriorly, its gape extending quite across the head. Snout semi-oval
anteriorly, formed by the anterior margin of the intermaxillaries, which are large, semi-circular,
flat above, very protractile, and slightly moveable up and down like lids. Jaws of equal length No
lips Maxilla extending posteriorly to theanterior margin of the orbit. Lower jaw the widest, and

222 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

rather depressed in front : a slight emargination at the symphysis. Upper surface of head flat.
Preopercle with the posterior limb vertical, the angle produced and rounded : lower limb rather
ascending. Opercle posteriorly rounded. Nostrils open laterally by a minute aperture in front of
the margin of the orbit.

Teeth — In the upper jaw there is an external series of sharp curved teeth, with an internal
and rather larger series. Between these there are several rows of villiform, the inner and outer
of which are recurved, and rather the strongest. In the lower jaw are bands of villiform teeth.
On the vomer there is a transverse narrow band rather produced anteriorly and in the centre, but
parallel with the teeth in the upper jaw.

Fins — Pectoral arises a short distance behind the opercles : ventral opposite its posterior third :
anal midway between the snout and the middle of the caudal fin. Dorsal situated in the posterior
fifth of the body, its third ray the longest, its posterior margin rather concave. Caudal wedge-
shaped, with the central rays the longest. Pectoral rounded. Ventral with the second ray elon-
gated. Anal with the last rays slightly the longest. The length of the ventral and caudal fins
varies greatly in different seasons of the year.

Scales — Cycloid, the longest diameter from above downwards. They extend over the
opercles.

Colours — Vary according to the season of the year and the sex of the fish. Greenish with a
gloss of purple on the abdomen. In the centre of each scale there is an emerald green spot,
which in some lights looks golden. The under surface of the chest white, glossed with purple.
A deep purple colour under the opercles and chin. Eyes of the same beautiful green as the spots.
Eight or ten vertical black stripes — absent in some specimens — pass from the back to the abdomen.
A silvery white spot at the summit of the occiput, and one at the anterior and another at the pos-
terior margins of the base of the dorsal. Caudal margined with red, and spotted with green at its
base, the tip being sometimes stained with black, and the membrane spotted with black, especially
apparent in the immature. Anal and dorsal also tipped with red and dotted with black, almost
forming bars. Anal also dotted all over, and with light yellow at its base in some of the larger
specimens : in smaller ones the black lines of the body are extended on to the anal fin, and at
the base of the pectoral there is a bright green spot. After death the silver spot disappears from
the occiput.

Grows to four inches in length, and is exceedingly common in all the rivers, tanks, and paddy
fields, and even extends its range into the backwaters within the influence of the tides. It may
be easily recognized by the silvery spot on the summit of the head which all of them have when
alive and in health. It is eaten by the Natives.

Habitat — Eivers, tanks, and paddy fields of Malabar.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 223

Sub-order.— PHYSOSTOMI ABDOMINALES, Muller.

Fam. CLUPEOIDiE, Cuvier.

Genus CHIROCENTRUS, Cuvier.

Branchiostegals, eight. Body much elongated and compressed, abdomen trenchant but not toothed.
Eyes lateral. Cleft of mouth wide, lower jaw the longest. One dorsal, placed far backwards towards the
caudal and opposite the anal. An elongated, triangular bony appendage in the axilla. Ventrals very
small, placed anterior to the dorsal. Teeth in a single pointed row in the intermaxillaries and maxilla,
those' on either side of the symphysis being the largest : an oblique row of villiform teeth on the palatine
bones, and a small group of velvety ones on the anterior pterygoid. A single row of long— but unequal
sized-lance-shaped teeth on each branch of the lower jaw. A single row of minute and conical ones
along the sides of the tongue, on the hyoid bone, and the margins of the branchial arches. Scales small
and deciduous. Air vessel present. No pyloric appendages.

CHIEOCENTEUS DORA I!.

Clupea dorab, Forsk. 72, no. 10S.

Wahlah, Russell, pi. 199.

Chirocentrus dorab, Cuv. & Vol. xix. p. 150, pi. 565 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 277.

B. viii. D. 16-17. P. 14-15. V. 6-7. A. 33-31. C. 19.

Length of head above fc of pectoral \, of caudal nearly $, of base of dorsal T\, of base of anal
r?r of total length. Height of head J-, of body -}, of dorsal TV, of ventral about £, of anal TV of

total length.

Eyes— Each having a strong adipose lid, with a vertical oval opening : horizontal diameter ¥,
vertical diameter f of length of head, J of a horizontal diameter apart, § of a diameter from end of

snout.

Body elongated, strongly compressed, its upper profile almost horizontal as far as the base ot
the dorsal fin, from whence it slopes slightly downwards to the caudal : its abdominal profile is
more convex than that of the back, and its margin is sharp and cutting.

Mouth anterior, upper jaw rather broad and obtuse, forming an arch, in its lower fourth it
becomes much more oblique : lower jaw strongly compressed, considerably the longest, and when
the mouth is closed its anterior margin forms a portion of the upper profile of the head. A supple-
mentary bone from the preorbital extends to the maxilla, which has a second inferior to it. Pre-
opercle, its posterior border thin and expanded, angle rounded, lower border horizontal. Opercle
with its sides nearly straight, one-third higher than wide, its posterior border slightly convex.
Sub- and interopercles small. Interorbital space broader posteriorly than anteriorly, and having
a raised keel along its centre. Preorbital very wide and thin.

Teeth— One pair, long, sharp, straight, and approximating exist near the centre of the
intermaxillaries, the remainder of which, and the whole extent of the maxilla armed with
sharp straight teeth, of irregular lengths, and becoming smaller at the posterior extremity of the
jaw. Each mandibula has a row of about twelve sharp laterally compressed teeth, of which the two
first are the shortest, and those most anterior have an oblique anterior direction, whilst those
posterior gradually become directed more and more backwards until the last form an acute angle

224 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

with the jaw. Five or six large card-like teeth on the palatine bones, and a small oval group of
smaller and velvety ones on the pterygoid.

Fins— Pectoral arises in the lower fourth of the body : the ventral midway between the gape
of the mouth and the base of the caudal : the dorsal in the posterior third of the body : and the anal
slightly in advance of it. The first ray of the pectoral strong and bony. Ventral small. Dorsal
rather highest in front, and its upper margin concave. Anal of the same shape, the membrane
between the rays of each deeply notched. Along the whole extent of the lower margin of the
abdomen are short hair-like rays.

Scales — Small and deciduous.

Lateral line— Indistinctly marked, straight, situated in the upper third of the body.

Colours— Upper surface of head and back bluish green, sides and abdomen shining silvery, a
line of yellow divides the colours of the back from the silvery sides. Cheeks golden. Fins trans-
parent, pectoral with some minute fine black points. Iris silvery, upper margin deep green.

This fish is not uncommon in South Malabar, but much more abundant towards the north,
where there are rocks. It is highly esteemed by the Natives when eaten fresh or salted, its taste
varies with the season of the year in which it is captured. It grows to six feet in India, but speci-
mens at New Guinea up to twelve feet are recorded.

Habitalr-From the Red Sea, through the Seas of India, Malaysia, the Moluccas, to New
Guinea and China, also the Eastern Coast of Africa and the Mauritius.

Genus CHANOS, Lacep.
Lutodeiea, Biippell.

Branchiostegals, four. Body moderately elongated, abdomen rounded. Eyes lateral, with adipose
lids. Cleft of mouth moderately deep. One dorsal with a row of scales along its base, ventral under
centre of dorsal. Anal with a scaly base, and placed beyond posterior margin of dorsal. Pectoral and
ventral enclosed by elongated scaly appendages. Caudal deeply cleft with two scaly semilunar lamina,
each fixed horizontally to the upper and lower of its short central rays. Teeth absent. Scales moderate
or small. Air vessel with a constriction. Pyloric appendages numerous.

Chanos PALA.

Cyprinus (leuciscus) pala, Cuvt'er, K£g. anim. ii. p. 276.

Chanos nuchalis, Guv. & Vol. xix. p. 197.

Palah bontah, Russell, pi. 207.

Chanos pala, Cantor, Catal. p. 278.

Butirinus Maderaspatensis, Jerdon, Madras Journ. xv. p. 344.

B. iv. D. 14-15. P. 17. V. 11. A. 9-11 C. 19. L. r. 75-77. L. tr. |-|.

Length of head r\, of pectoral nearly £, of caudal ^-, of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal ^3
of total length. Height of head \, of body f6> of dorsal J, of ventral fa of anal TV of total length.

Eyes — Upper margins close to the profile. A thick adipose membrane exists over them, each
having a central circular opening. Horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter \ of length of head,
A a horizontal diameter from end of snout, 1 horizontal diameter apart.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Body rather elongated, the profile slightly ascends to above the h1k.h1.1it, from whence it
proceeds nearly straight to the upper surface of the caudal. The slope of the lower is about the
same as that of the upper surface of the head. The abdominal profile is more convex than that i »f

the back. •

Snout rather large. Upper jaw overhangs the lower. The posterior extremity of the maxilla
extends to under the anterior margin of the orbit. The intermaxillaries form an acute angle, into
which the triangular extremity of the lower jaw is received : the symphysis of the lower jaw has a
tubercle which fits into a corresponding notch in the upper jaw. Operclc nearly twice as high as
wide : posterior margin convex, and advances so far forward in its upper portion that it joins the
anterior without leaving any appreciable superior margin.

Teeth— None.

Fins—Pectoral commences just posterior to the anterior superior angle of the opercle : dorsal
midway between the snout and the base of the caudal : ventral under the seventh dorsal ray : anal
midway between the base of the ventral, and the end of the scales on the base of the caudal.
Dorsal fin highest in front, the first three rays undivided, the third the highest in the fin, and the
last ray which is rather elongated, not quite half its height : the upper margin of the fin concave,
and along its base are two rows of thirteen obliquely placed scales. Pectoral pointed, with an
elongated scaly appendage at its base. Ventral triangular, with a long basal scale. Anal very
small, first three rays undivided, fourth the longest, and more than twice the length of the last ;
the lower margin of the fin concave, with 'two rows of scales along its base. Caudal deeply lobed,
and its centre covered by two semi-lunar lamina? of scales.

Scales— Small, covering the body : a row along the base of the dorsal and anal fins, and
covering the base of the caudal. There are some rows of enlarged scales over the nape.

Lateral line— Consists of a simple tube in each scale : at first it curves slightly downwards,
and then passes nearly straight to opposite the end of the ventral, and from thence quite straight
to the centre of the caudal.

Numerous ceecal appendages. " Air vessel very large, spindle-shaped, terminating behind
" in an elongated point : the anterior margin is straight, with short pointed processes on each

" side." — {Cantor.)

Colours— Summit of head and back of a brilliant glossy blue, fading into silvery on the
abdomen : snout light brown. Dorsal and caudal rays greyish, which as well as the membranes
are dotted with light brown : both these fins are margined with black. The caudal semi-lunar
laminae of scales pale slate colour, the pectorals and ventrals white, with the anterior halves of
their external surfaces minutely dotted with dark brown, their elongated appendages bright
silvery. The anal white, with the anterior half dotted with black. Iris silvery, orbital half pale
brownish.

Usually captured at Cochin in the backwater during the S.W. monsoon. It grows to a large
size and is excellent eating : it is termed the White mullet at Vizagapatam, but is inferior in flavour
to the true mullet : it is also said to be called the Milk fish.

Habitat— Seas, estuaries, tanks, and mouths of some rivers of India and Malaysia.

2 G

22G THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Genus DUS8UMIERIA, Vol.

Branehiostegals, fifteen. Body rather long and compressed, the abdominal profile more curved than
that of the back. Eyes, each with an adipose lid on either side. Cleft of mouth moderately wide. Upper
jaw shorter than the lower. One moderately long dorsal, commencing about midway between snout and
base of caudal. Ventral under centre of dorsal, anal behind it. Fine teeth in the jaws, on the tongue,
the palatine and pterygoid bones : none on the vomer. Scales of moderate size, deciduous. Air vessel
small.

DUSSUMIEEIA ACUTA.

Dussumieeia acuta, duo. & Vol xx. p. 467 ; pi. 606; Cantor, Catal. p. 286.
Koorie, Mai.

B. 15. D. 19-21. P. 14. V. 9. A. 14-17. C. 21.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal JQ, of ventral TV of total length.

Byes Upper margins close to the profile, having narrow adipose lids on each side of the

orbits. Diameter nearly 1 of length of head, and almost 1 diameter from end of snout.

■ Body rather long and compressed, its thickness equals half its height. Upper line of profile
nearly straight, the lower much more convex.

Mouth rather wide and slightly acute : lower jaw when closed a little the longest : the pos-
terior extremity of the upper jaw reaches to below the anterior margin of the orbit. Opercle
with the margins cut rather square, it is half as wide as high. Preopercle large, its angle rather
produced. Subopercles small, a slightly elevated longitudinal crest from between the centre of the
orbit to the snout. Abdominal edge smooth. Left branchiostegous membrane slightly overlaps

the right.

Teeth In jaws in a single row, which are fine and very deciduous. A band of the same

description on the palate.

pms Dorsal arises midway between the anterior margin of the orbit and the base of the

caudal : pectoral just under the opercle : ventral beneath the twelfth ray of the dorsal : anal
about midway between the base of the ventral and the centre of the termination of the caudal.
Dorsal with the first five rays single, the fifth and sixth the highest in the fin ; superior margin
rather concave. Pectoral rounded, and situated in the lower fourth of body. Ventral pointed.
Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Small, and deciduous.

Colours — Of a beautiful green, shot with blue. Upper margin of the opercle and along the
back of a light blue, below which is a bronzed line, and below that again a silvery one, shot with
pink. Caudal beautifully shot with blue, green, and gold. Upper surface of head and eye
emerald green. Pectoral, ventral, and anal white, except the first ray of the pectoral which has a
little black on it. Dorsal yellowish green. End of snout greenish. Eyes white.

Very common and excellent eating. Cantor says this species has been preserved a /mile. It
is termed a Sardine by the inhabitants and residents in Malabar.

Habitat— Seas of India and Malaysia.

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 227

(J en us ELOPS, Li mi.

Branchiostcgals numerous and variable in their number, both in different specimens of the same
species and on either side of the head of the same fish. Body elongated, back and abdomen rounded.
Eyes with adipose membranes. Gape of mouth very large, intcrmaxillaries short. Mamillaries long and free,
lower jaw the longest. One dorsal nearly medial : anal posterior to the last dorsal ray, ventral under
dorsal. Pectoral and ventral with an elongated scaly appendage, last dorsal ray sometimes filamentous :
rows of scales along the bases of dorsal and anal fins. Caudal forked, with a more or less elongated spine-
like scale above and below its root. Fine velvety teeth in maxilla, mandibula, vomer, palatine, pterygoid,
sphenoid, and hyoid bones. A single bony plate between the branches of the lower jaw under the bran-
chiostegous membrane. Scales large or of moderate size. Air vessel large. Pyloric appendages numerous.

Elops MACHNATA.
Argentina machnata, Forsk. G8, No. 100.
Elops saurus, Cuv. & Val. xix. p. 365 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 287.
Jinagow, Russell, pi. 179.

B. left xxxi., right xxx. to xxxix. D. 23. P. 17. V. 15. A. 17. C. 31. L. 1.109. L. tr. {§.

Length of head §, of pectoral 1, of caudal \, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal -jL- of total
length. Height of head \, of body i, of dorsal ^, of ventral \, of anal Jj- of total length.

Eyes — Oval : situated in the anterior half of the head, upper margins close to profile : each
with a circular adipose covering, having a large round orifice corresponding to the pupil. Hori-
zontal diameter § , and vertical diameter ^ of length of head, rather above 1 horizontal diameter
from end of snout, f of a diameter apart anteriorly, but wider posteriorly.

Body elongated, rather compressed along its sides, upper and lower profiles almost straight.

Mouth large and wide, upper jaw forming the arc of a circle : lower jaw the longest, highest
posteriorly, a little concave along its upper margin, and elevated at the symphysis : the posterior
extremity of the upper jaw extends rather beyond the posterior margin of the orbit. Maxilla
narrow, with a long supplementary bone posterior to it in its whole extent, and in the lower half
there is another divided into two. Preopercle with the posterior margin rather produced at the
angle, which is rounded : lower limb horizontal, and three-fourths the length of the vertical one.
Interopercle almost hidden by the opercle. Opercle with its superior margin the shortest : the
inferior oblique and nearly twice the length of the superior : posterior margin rounded. Sub-
opercle broad, its depth rather more than half its length. Upper surface of the head with a broad
longitudinal furrow, narrow in front and rugose on each side. Nostrils nearer the orbit than the
snout. The left branchiostegous membrane overlaps the right, and contains one or two rays more,
they vary according to Cuv. fy Val. from twenty-nine to thirty-nine.

Teeth — In numerous villiform rows in both jaws, widest at the centre of the lowest : also on
the vomer in two oval patches, joined together posteriorly by a thin wedge-shaped one : villiform
teeth also on the palatine bones.

Fins — Pectoral in the lower fourth of the body, a short distance posterior to the opercle, and
on a lower level : dorsal midway between the anterior margin of the orbit and the base of the
caudal : ventral under the origin of the dorsal : anal midway between the origins of the ventral
and caudal. Dorsal elevated in front, where it is more than four times as long as its posterior
rays : upper margin concave ; the first six rays are unbranched, the last are the longest. Pectoral,
first ray strong and unbranched. Ventral with the two first rays bony, the second the longest in

2 g 2

228 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

the fin, and twee the length of the last : a long elongated scale at its base. Anal with the first
four rays bony and unbranched, the fourth the longest and three times the length of the last.
Caudal deeply lobed, with scales along its centre.

ScaleS_The longest diameter from above downwards. The smallest are along the abdomen.

Lateral line— Consists of a central tube to each scale. It first makes a slight concavity, until
it reaches a little above the centre of the body, and then passes direct to the caudal.

Colours— Summit of head silvery, upper surface of body dark bluish, fading into silvery white
on the side, a golden tint about the head and jaws. Anal and caudal diaphanous, the other fins
yellowish, dotted with black. Dorsal with the upper and lower margins blackish : eyes silvery.

Grows to two or three feet in length, and is eaten by Europeans, but not esteemed.

Habitat— Eed Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and Japan : also the Mauritius and through
the North and South Atlantic Oceans.

Elops apalike.

Clupea apalike, Lacepede, v. t. 13, f. 3.

Kundinga, Russell, pi. 203.

Cyprinodon cundinga, Ham. Bitch, pp. 254, 383.

Megalops Indicus, Guv. & Veil. xix. p. 388, p. 577.

Elops Indicus, Guv. & Veil. xx. p. 472.

Megalops filamentosus, Cuvier, Tthg. anim. ii. p. 324; Jerdon, Madras Journal, xv.

p. 344.
Elops cundinga, Cantor, Catal. p. 289.
Cunnay, Mai.

B. Left xxv-xxvi, Right xxiv-xxv. D. 19-21. P. 15-16. V. 11. A. 24. C. 19. L. 1. 39.

L. tr. f .

Length of head ^, of pectoral T25, of caudal above \, of base of dorsal ^j, of base of anal T25
of total length. Height of head T2g, of body \, of dorsal exclusive of filament ^, of dorsal in-
cluding filament above \, of ventral ^T of total length.

Eyes Upper margins close to the profile, situated in the anterior half of the head. Hori-
zontal diameter f\, vertical diameter \ of length of head, rather more than J a diameter from end
of snout, and rather more than ! a diameter apart. In the immature fish the proportionate size
of the eyes is smaller.

General appearance somewhat resembling that of a large herring. Body elongated and com-
pressed : head also compressed. Profile from snout to dorsal very slightly elevated, and from
thence to the caudal a little depressed. There is rather a shallow concavity from the snout to
opposite the posterior margin of the orbit. Lower profile more curved than the upper.

Mouth oblique, snout obtuse, anterior extremity of the lower jaw completing the anterior end of
the upper profile. Intermaxillaries almost transverse, forming a broad space into which is received
the end of the lower jaw : cleft of mouth about as deep as it is wide. No lips. The end of the
maxillaries extend below the centre of the orbit in the adult, and to opposite the posterior margin
in the immature. Maxilla very narrow, but posteriorly having two wide supplementary parallel
bones, the internal appearing as if it were two. Upper jaw convex in front, concave posteriorly,
with its extremity rounded. Lower jaw rather elevated opposite the symphysis, and its upper

THE FISHES OP MALABAR. "^

margin concave. When the mouth is closed the mandible is laterally concealed by the upper jaw.
Preorbital narrow. Preopercle rather wide, lower limb almost horizontal. Opercle nearly semi-
circular posteriorly. Sub- and interopercles small. Upper surface of head nearly flat, with a
central rather wide but very shallow depression, extending from opposite the preopercle to opposite
the anterior margin of the orbit : for its anterior third it has a central longitudinal elevation.
Nostrils, the anterior round, the posterior oval, situated midway between the eye and snout. Ihe
left branchiostegous membrane partially overlaps the right.

Teeth -Villiform in both jaws, in several wide bands in the mandibles: on the vomer there
is a heart-shaped spot : also villiform ones on the palate, pterygoids, and sphenoids.

Fins-Pectorals in the lower fourth of the body, under the posterior border of the subopercle :
dorsal midway between the snout and base of caudal : ventral under the origin of the dorsal, and
the anal a short distance behind the posterior margin of the dorsal. Dorsal high m front, upper
margin rather concave, last half of the posterior ray long, and reaching to opposite the end ot
the anal; the third ray the longest in front, the last ray but one equal to a little more than a
third of its height. Pectoral pointed. Ventral with an elongated scale at its base. Anal with
the fourth and fifth rays the longest ; the fin is highest in front, and concave along the first part
of its lower margin, then parallel with the abdomen, its last ray a little prolonged. Caudal deeply
lobed, the lobes rather more expanded in the immature than in the adult fish.

Scales— Cycloid, longest diameter from above downwards, posterior fourth of exposed por-
tions smooth, shining, and covered by membrane. No scales on the- head. A few small ones over

the base of the anal fin. .

Lateral line— Is formed of a single tube in each scale, which branches off into six or eight
smaller ones, and in the last half of the scale into from eight to twelve narrow channels, which
proceed to its posterior margin. It first curves a little downwards; opposite the commence-
ment of the dorsal it proceeds direct in the adult, but in the immature is slightly convex opposite
the dorsal, from whence it proceeds straight to the caudal. Centre of the scales raised in the

adult. .

Colours— Summit of head dark olive, back bluish-green in the adult, hghter m the immature.

Abdomen silvery, with bluish reflections. The margins of the scales of a brilliant silver, as is also

the lateral hue and the sides of the head. The centre of the jaws black. Dorsal and caudal

greyish minutely dotted with black, and the margins blackish, as is also the last elongated dorsal

ray Pectoral, ventral, and anal diaphanous, with some fine black dots, the last anal ray darkish.

Eyes silvery, with the orbital margin of a darkish tint. The pupils oval, pointing downwards.

It is occasionally captured in the mouth of the river at Cochin, but much more commonly

found in the tanks, and especially in the fort ditch. Amongst many specimens examined at

Cochin, no difference existed in the number of scales in the adult and young fish, as noted by

Cantor m the Straits, and the filamentous portion of the last dorsal was as long in the adult as m

the young specimens, but the comparative size of the eye larger in the former than in the latter.

Is considered good eating, but is bony. It makes tremendous springs out of the water. It is not

river fish, but during the monsoon it is caught both there and in the sea.

" Habitat— Fresh waters and estuaries of India, Ceylon, Malaysia, China, and Polynesia.

230 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Genus SARDINELLA, Val.

Branchiostegals, six. Body elongated and in most species the abdomen trenchant and toothed. Cleft
of mouth small, upper jaw the shortest. One dorsal, medial : ventral opposite, and anal some distance
posterior to the dorsal. Teeth on the palatine and pterygoid bones as well as on the tongue : none on the
jaws or on the vomer. Scales large or of moderate size. Air vessel long.

Sardinella Neohowii.

Sardinella Neohowii, Guv. & Val. xx. p. 274.
Charlay, Mai. Oil Sardine.

B. vi. D. 17. P. 17. V. 9. A. 16. C. 17. L. 1. 45. L. tr. 13.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal J, of base of anal \, of caudal £ of total
length. Height of head £, of body A, of dorsal £ of the total length.

Byes — Bather close to upper profile. Each have an anterior and posterior rather broad
adipose membrane : diameter 4, of length of head, 1 diameter apart, and a little more than 1 dia-
meter from end of snout.

Body rather elongated, back broad, sides slightly compressed, abdominal surface rather
rounded. Profile of back convex, the base of the dorsal being situated on the most superior part :
abdominal profile not so convex as that of the back.

Mouth anterior, lower jaw the longest, the upper jaw slightly notched in its centre, and convex
along its lower margin : lower jaw compressed and widest posteriorly. Maxilla widened by the
addition of two supplementary bones, its posterior extremity extends to under the orbit. Opercle
half as wide as high, its upper margin nearly straight, its posterior rather concave in its upper
third, slightly convex in its lower third. Subopercle nearly square, one third as high as opercle.
Preopercle wide, its posterior margin rather oblique, angle produced and rounded, lower limb hori-
zontal. Interopercle large. Gill openings wide. Branchiostegous membrane partially uncovered.

Teeth— None apparent in the jaws, or on the vomer, but fine ones on the tongue, the palate,
and the pterygoids.

Fins — Pectoral arises close to, and just beneath the posterior angle of the subopercle : the
dorsal rather nearer to the snout than it does to the base of the caudal, the seventh ray being
in about the centre of the body : ventral under the posterior third of the dorsal : and the anal
in the posterior third of the body. First dorsal rays short, the third the highest, the upper
margin of the fin concave, its last ray very short. Pectoral pointed. Ventral abdominal, and
triangular, first ray undivided. Anal highest anteriorly, its lower margin concave. Caudal lobed
in its posterior half, its base wide.

Scales — Longest diameter vertical : none on the head.

Colours — Green with golden reflections, abdomen silvery shot with purple. Head of the same
colour as the body with a large greenish gold spot on the upper margin of the opercle and pre-
opercle. Dorsal sea green. Caudal stained with green. The other fins transparent.

Arrives in some years in enormous numbers, and from it fish oil is prepared, when Dussumier
was in Malabar, probably about 1827, he observed that those not eaten were used for manuring
the fields as they were too fat to salt well ; at the present time, mostly from this species, an average
of upwards of seven thousand pounds worth of fish oil is annually exported from Malabar. But
the oil sardine is very capricious as to its arrival and departure, thus in 1855-56 from the port of

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 231

Cochin only 45 cwt. of fish oil were exported, the next year merely 181 cwt., but in 1857-58,
68,499 cwt., which augmented in tho succeeding year to 102,924 cwt., and the year after to
133,143 cwt. Again it gradually fell off until in 1862-63, as little as 115 cwt. were exported, but
the shoals suddenly returned and in 1863-64, the exports rose to the enormous quantity of 148,206
cwt. The fish is excellent eating, but too fat to salt well. Its general length is from six to seven
inches.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar and Ceylon.

Genus PELLONA, Valen.
Platygaster, Swainson.

xi

Brancliiostegals, six. Body rather elongated and compressed, abdomen strongly toothed. Mouth of
moderate size. Upper jaw emarginate hi the majority of the species, and shorter than the lower. Dorsal
fin medial, ventral inserted before the dorsal, anal elongated. Teeth on jaws, palatine and pterygoid bones
also on the tongue, but none on the vomer. Scales large or of moderate size. Air vessel present, commu-
nicating with the oesophagus by a small duct inserted at the extremity of the stomach.

* Pellona Dussumieri.
Pellona Dussumieri, Cuv. & Vol. xx. p. 316, pi. 596.

B. vi. D. 18. P. 16. V. 6. A. 44-54. C. 21.

Length of head nearly \ of the total length. Height of the body \ of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter \ of length of head.

Teeth — Those on the maxilla almost horizontal behind the bone on which they are inserted.

Body oblong, the lower profile more convex than that of the back.

Lower jaw considerably advanced before the upper. The opercle has some strias upon it, and
the preopercle some veins.

Fins — Dorsal high in front : its last rays very low, and its border sloping very obliquely; it is
entirely scaled, and the base of the rays is in a groove formed by rows of scales on either side
larger than those of the back. The pectoral has a long scale at its axil, its first ray is strong, and
its extremity rounded. The ventral small, and arises near the end of the pectoral, on the chest,
and in advance of the dorsal : no long scale at its base. Anal long and very low, the number of
its rays varies.

Scales — Large and smooth, those on the abdominal keel similar to those of the other species
of this genus.

Colours — Glittering with a beautiful silvery lustre : back fawn colour with a green reflection.
The fins bordered with black.

Grows to one foot in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

232 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Genus PRISTIGASTER, Owner.

Branchiostegals, six. Body rather elongated and compressed. Abdomen strongly toothed, mouth of
moderate size, upper jaw shorter than the lower. Dorsal fin medial and very low : ventrals absent : anal
elongated. Teeth on jaws, palatine and pterygoid bones, also on the tongue, but none on the vomer.
Scales large or of moderate size. Air vessel either large and forked, with the horns prolonged on each
side of the vertebra? into the coccygeal muscles, or else simple and oval. Pyloric appendages numerous.

Pristigaster tartoore.
Tartoore, Russell, pi. 193.
Pristigaster tartoore, Guv. & Vol. xx. p. 328.

B. vi. D. 13-17. P. 13-15. A. 5TL<y. C. 21. L. 1. 50. Spines 28.

Length of head above \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal -fe, of base of anal \
of total length. Height of head \, of body \ of the total length.

Byes — With free orbital margins, diameter above \ of the length of head, § of a diameter
from end of snout, \ of a diameter apart.

Body strongly compressed, its thickness being hardly equal to one fourth of its height.
Superior profile rising as far as occiput, from whence it forms a very long and low curve as far as
the caudal, whilst the extremity of the lower jaw forms a portion of the upper profile. Abdominal
profile nearly straight.

Mouth directed slightly upwards and forwards, the lower jaw the longest, the symphysis being
extended beyond the portion forming the mouth, the upper jaw very short, the preorbital long and
extended over the posterior portion of the maxilla when the mouth is closed. The maxilla wide,
first directed downwards and slightly forwards, but opposite the angle of the mouth it expands
into a wide oval plate directed backwards and extending as far as the anterior third of the orbit.
Opercle triangular, ending in a soft point. A long triangular groove exists on the head, its apex
being in front and its base at the occipital process, it has a small spine in the centre of its posterior
margin, and one on either side.

Teeth — A few fine distant teeth in the intermaxillaries and the central third of the lower jaw,
none in the upper jaw where it forms a portion of the mouth, but the external edge of its lower
limb is finely denticulated. A band of villiform teeth along the palatine bones, none on the vomer.
Villiform teeth also on the tongue and pterygoids.

Fins — Pectoral commences under the posterior margin of the end of the opercle ; dorsal
nearer the tail than the snout : anal opposite the end of the pectoral : from the throat to the
commencement of the anal fin there are twenty-eight sharp spines along the lower line of the
profile, which increase in length and strength posteriorly. Dorsal small and low. Pectoral
pointed. Anal low.

Scales — Smooth without stria?.

Lateral line — In single tubes in each scale, dividing and sub-dividing posteriorly. It ascends
from the posterior margin of the opercle and is lost below the posterior end of the dorsal fin. A
second lateral line passing direct to the centre of the caudal is just apparent.

Colours — Superiorly yellowish-white shot with silver, becoming silvery beneath. Fins yellowish,
caudal minutely dotted with black points, also some black dots on snout, upper surface of the
head and along the upper margins of the opercles, which are silvery.

Not common in Malabar. Grows to nine inches in length and is good eating.
Habitat — Seas of India.

THE FISHES OF MALABAB. 233

Genus SPEATELLA, Vol.

Branchiostegals, five or six. Body moderately elongated, and compressed: abdomen trenchant and

serrated. Upper jaw shorter than the lower. One dorsal, medial : ventral under dorsal : anal moderately
elongated and posterior to the dorsal. Teeth on the palatine bones and on the tongue, none on the jaws
or vomer.

Speatella fimbbiata.
Speatella fimbbiata, Guv. & Vol. xx. p. 359, pi. 600.

CUTTAY CHABLAY, Mai.

B. v. P. 19-20. P. 17. V. S. A. 20 C. 19-20. L. 1. 46. L. tr. 11.

Length of head i, of pectoral J, of caudal ?,-, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total
length. Height of head J, of body \, of dorsal -j2.,, of anal ^, of ventral T'3 of total length.

Eyes — With wide adipose lids, having a circular orifice in the centre of each, diameter f of
length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, and 1 diameter apart.

Body elliptical, highest opposite the front of the dorsal fin. Sides rather compressed, abdo-
minal line ending in a sharp toothed keel. Profile from snout to dorsal gradually rising, from the
posterior end of the dorsal sinking as gradually to the caudal. The lower profile slightly convex.

Mouth small, half wider than deep. Lower jaw the longest, with a tubercle at the symphysis.
Posterior extremity of the upper jaw reaches to opposite the centre of the orbit. The nearest
supplementary bone to the maxilla thick and rounded above, flattened expanded and sulcated
inferiorly : posterior bone narrow, and with a circular expansion inferiorly. Opercle two and a
quarter times as high as wide, its superior and inferior margins oblique, its anterior and posterior
ones straight, (in immature specimens there is a slight bulging at the centre of the pos-
terior margin) some oblique badly marked veinings on the opercle. Subopercle trapezoid, half
longer than it is high. Preopercle large, with the posterior border vertical and its angle rounded.
Subopercle small. Branchiostegous membrane wide. Interorbital space with a V-shaped elevation
in its centre, apex in front, and its base emarginate behind. Nostrils oval, large, and nearer to
the snout than to the anterior margin of the orbit. Abdomen sharp, keeled, and its margin
denticulated.

Teeth — Very small in the lower jaw, and deciduous. There are some minute ones on the
palate, and also a small longitudinal band in the centre of the tongue.

Fins — The distance from the snout to the anterior extremity of the dorsal fin, is equal to the
distance from the base of the caudal to the posterior extremity of the same fin : pectoral situated
just beneath the posterior inferior angle of the subopercle : ventral under the centre of the dorsal :
anal midway between the commencement of the ventral and the base of the caudal. Dorsal
highest in front, first five rays undivided, the fifth the highest, the last rays slightly prolonged :
upper margin concave ; at the base of the fin there is a double row of scales, forming a groove,
which at its posterior end almost conceals the whole of the last two rays. Pectoral pointed.
Ventral triangular, with an elongated scale at its base. Anal with the first three rays undivided,
the fin parallel with the abdominal surface. Caudal deeply lobed, the longest ray equal to the
length of the head, or even more.

Scales — Vertical diameter the longest.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back greenish, abdomen silvery shot with green and

234 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

gold. Four or five badly marked horizontal lines pass along the centre of each scale. Opercles
and the lower surface of the head beautifully shot with golden and green. Dorsal, pectoral, ventral,
and anal colourless. Caudal shot with blue, and having a darkish margin.

Very much esteemed for eating by the Natives, and also extensively salted. It is not a good
species for the manufacture of oil, as it contains but little, which is probably the reason why it is
salted in such quantities. It is very abundant, and commonly known as the Sardine, but is not
the species used for the manufacture of oil, which is the Sardinella Neohoivii of Cuv. 6f Vol. It
grows to about sis inches in length.

Habitat — Malabar.

Genus MELETTA, Vol.

Branchiostegals, from five to seven. Body elongated and compressed, abdomen trenchant and serrated.
Cleft of mouth moderate. Upper jaw the shortest. One dorsal medial, ventral beneath the dorsal, anal
moderately elongated and behind the dorsal. Teeth none on the jaws, vomer, or palatine bones, but a
small rough band on the tongue. Air vessel large and cylindrical.

* Meletta LILE.
Meletta lile, Guv. & Vol, xx. p. 378.

B. v. D. 14. P. 12. V. 7. A. 17. C. 21. L. 1. 40.

Length of head T2T of that of the body. Height of body equal to T3T of the total length.

Profile of back almost straight, that of the abdomen very convex, and its surface trenchant.
Its thickness one-fourth of its height.

Mouth small ; the lower jaw slightly longer than the upper.

Teeth — In upper jaw absent, very small ones present (?) in lower jaw. A longitudinal band
on the tongue.

Pins — Ventrals small and inserted under the first ray of the dorsal, which as well as the
caudal is scaly ; the last of which fins is forked.

Colours — Transparent white : lateral line opaque and marked by a sdver band, softened with
nacreous rose colour. Fins transparent with the exception of the caudal, which has a black border.

Grows to four or five inches in length, and said to be very common in Malabar, where it is
termed cooba.

Habitat — Seas of India.

Genus ALAUSA, Vol.

Branchiostegals, from five to eight. Body moderately elongated and compressed, abdomen trenchant
and serrated. Eye with broad adipose lids ou either side. Upper jaw shorter than the lower. Dorsal medial,
ventral below it : anal elongated, and posterior to dorsal. No teeth in any of the bones of the mouth or
on the tongue, except occasionally small deciduous ones on the jaws. Air vessel large, pointed at both
ends and simple. Pyloric appendages numerous.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. *oa

* Alausa palasah.

Palasaii, Russell, pi. 198. , ,« . „« / \

Clupanodon ilisha, Ham. Bud, pp. 243, 382, pi 19 f. 73 (young)
Alausa palasah, CW & Val. xx. p. 432 ; Jerdon, Madras .Journal xv. p. 34o , M,

Catal. p. 300.
Sable fish.

B.vi. D. 19. P. 14-16. V.8. A. 19. C. 19. L. 1. 47-49. L. to. 19.

Body oblong, the abdominal edge toothed.

Length of head A of the total length. Height of body A of the total length.

Eyes— With thick adipose lids, upper margins near the profile.

Snout slightly pointed : upper jaw strongly einarginate, mouth small.

S:frPtbtSoernal pointed. Dorsal nearly central, cut scmare. Cauda! scaly and deeply forked.

Scales— Closely set. None on the head.

Colours— Greenish above, silvery beneath. Byes silvery. ,

v -r, • d ]3y j)/\ jerdon to ascend

It is captured both in the sea and in the fresh water, it is saia y

the Cavery during the freshes for the purpose of spawning, and is taken for he ^ake , of its roe,

wHchTSglS esteemed. Cantor observes upon its affinity to the Alausa ft* 0. A V or ^

from which tli best fish roes are prepared, and the fishing of winch is stated to form a dxstinct

W important branch of trade in the India. ^^ It is said to ascend

It is good eating, but rather oily : growing to sixteen incnes in iena

the Ganges in August.

Habitat-Seas and rivers near the coasts of India and Malaysia.

Alausa melanuea.

Alausa melanuea, Cuv. & Val. xx. p. 441.

Oper e""^^^^

forming a curve. Interopercle broad. Abdominal margin sharp, keeled, aud havrng twenty

imbricated spinous scales along its edge.

^rer the snont tban it is to tbe base of tbe eandal , ventral nnder be or.gm of •£££

Dorsal highest in front, its first tbree rays nnbranebed, the fourth the longest
«i8ts along its base, .bat of the an.l, and of tbe eaudal, wb.eb last fin » deeply lobed.
Scales-Vertical di.meter about three times as long as then homontal. ^

23G THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Lateral line — Not apparent.

Colours — A tinge of green along- the back ; silvery tinged with purple on the abdomen.
Opercle bluish. A black mark on the occiput, and a line of fine black dots along the base of the
dorsal. Posterior extremity of caudal lobes darkish, and when alive shot with blue.

Grows to six inches in length, and is esteemed for eating.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar, Malaysia, New Guinea, and Bourbon.

Alausa scombrina.
Alausa scombrina, Guv. & Vol. xxi. p. 442.

B. vi. D. 14-15. P. 15. V. 9. A. 14-15. C. 21. L. 1. 45-50.

Length of head above \, of pectoral ^, of base of dorsal T27, of base of anal \, of caudal \
of the total length. Height of head J, of body J, of dorsal -£-, of ventral \, of anal j^ of the total
length.

Eyes — Each with an adipose lid on either side, and their upper margins rather close to the
profile : diameter ^ of length of head, § of a diameter from end of snout, ^ a diameter apart.

Body subcylindrical, its thickness equal to half its height. The abdominal profile slightly
more convex than that of its back.

Lower jaw the longest ; the posterior extremity of the maxilla extends to beneath the anterior
third of the orbit. Opercular pieces large and smooth.

Teeth — In a fine single row in either jaw, and extending along the margin of the maxilla.
Apparently none on the vomer, palatine bones, or tongue.

Fins — The anterior extremity of the dorsal is situated midway between the snout and the base
of the caudal, and slightly behind the posterior extremity of the pectoral. The ventral arises
beneath the third dorsal ray : the anal midway between ventral and base of caudal. Dorsal highest
anteriorly, and rather pointed. Caudal deeply lobed.

Scales — Of moderate size.

Colours — Silvery, with a slight tinge of green along the back.

Grows to eight inches in length and is good eating. It abounds in the rivers, and even in
the paddy fields and ditches at certain seasons.

Habitat — Seas, estuaries, and even fresh waters of Malabar and the Seychelles.

Genus Engraulis, Cuvier.
Setipinna, Swainson.
Thrissa, Rafin.

Branchiostegals, from nine to fourteen, but varying in number not only in different specimens of the
same species but on either side of the head in the same individual. Body moderately elongated, rounded
or compressed : abdomen trenchant, toothed, serrated, or smooth. Eyes lateral with adipose lid3. Snout
projecting, pointed, the nasal bone advanced in front of the jaws : intermaxillaries soldered to the maxil-
laries, and hidden beneath the muzzle. Mouth cleft to far behind the eyes, upper jaw the longest, in some
the mamillaries are greatly elongated {Thrissa, Kafin). Dorsal medial : ventral small, in front of to beneath

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 237

the dorsal. Anal behind the dorsal, moderately elongated, or very long, extending to under or from even
anterior to the dorsal (Telard), the pectoral occasionally has its anterior ray elongated and filamentous
(Setipinna, Swainson). Caudal forked. Teeth on upper and lower mamillaries, a few on the anterior part
of the vomer, palatine and pterygoid bones narrow and bristling with minute teeth, or rough. Gill openings
very large. Scales moderate or small. Air vessel present. Pyloric appendages numerous.

Engeaulis Beownii.
Atiieeina Beownii, Linn. Syst. 1397.
Nattoo, Bussell, pi. 187.
Engeaulis fasciata, Guv. & Val. xxi. p. 43.
Engeaulis Beownii, Guv. & Val. xxi. p. 41 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 303.

B. xi. D. 14-16. P. 15-16. V. 7. A. 20-21. C. 19. L. 1. 35-38. L. tr. 7.

Length of head nearly \, of pectoral \, of caudal -J-, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ] of
total length. Height of head |, of body J, of dorsal £, of ventral -j^, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes — Upper margins near the superior profile, and with wide adipose lids. Diameter f of
length of head, § of a diameter from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter apart.

Thickness of body equals two-thirds of its height : head compressed. The abdominal profile
is more rounded than trenchant, and the teething more like hairs than spines.

Snout obtuse, overhanging the mouth which is deeply cleft. Posterior extremity of the
maxilla extends to a short distance before the root of the pectoral. Lower jaw the shortest and
compressed.

Teeth — In fine rows on the maxilla, increasing in strength posteriorly : a fine band of inwardly
curved ones in the lower jaw, and also a few villiform ones on the vomer and palate.

Fins — Dorsal commences rather nearer the base of the caudal than the anterior extremity of
the snout : ventral between it and the posterior extremity of the pectoral : and the anal under the
last fourth of the dorsal. Caudal deeply lobed. Dorsal triangular.

Scales — Large and deciduous, their horizontal diameter half their vertical. An elongated
scale exists at the base of the pectoral fin.

Lateral line — Straight on the anterior twelve scales, in the form of a central tube, beyond
which it becomes indistinct.

Colours — Greenish silvery above, opercles shining silvery shot with gold. A large black spot
on the posterior half of the occiput. A broad silvery band passes from the centre of the posterior
margin of the opercle to the centre of the caudal. Abdomen light buff colour. Fins yellowish,
with minute black dots. Eyes sdvery, orbital margin dark.

Grows to eight inches in length, and is much esteemed for eating. It is known as Whitebait
amongst Europeans, and is captured in Malabar in great numbers. In the Straits Cantor states
that large quantities of them are preserved for exportation to China and India, as well as for home
consumption, forming a delicious condiment known under the designation of " Red-fish." The
following is the mode of preparation: — " After the heads have been removed, the fishes, (those of
middling size are preferred), are cleansed, salted, (in the proportion of one to eight parts of fish)
and deposited in flat glazed earthen vessels. In the latter they are for three days submitted to
pressure, by means of stones placed on thin boards or dried plantain leaves. The fishes are next
freed from salt, and saturated with vinegar and cocoa-palm toddy, after which are added powdered
ginger and black pepper (the latter mostly entire), and some brandy and powdered ' Red rice.5

238 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

After having been kept for three days a little more vinegar is added before placing the fishes in
well closed jars or bottles. They should be kept four or five months before being used." — Cantor,
p. 305. " Red rice is a variety of Oryza sativa called glutinosa steeped in an infusion of cochineal."
Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, China, Australia, New Zealand, and the Mauritius. Also
through the North and South Atlantic oceans.

2. Maxilla greatly elongated.

Engraulis auratus, PI. xix. f. 2.
Engraulis auratus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G5, p. 312.

B. x. D. TV P. 12. V. 7. A. 34. C. 19. L. 1. 40. L. tr. 9.

Length of head nearly }, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal \, of caudal \ of
the total length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal \, of anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Oval, with their anterior and posterior thirds covered by adipose lids : diameter \ of
length of head, \ a diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Profile scarcely ascends from the snout to the dorsal fin, or descends much from thence to the
caudal, the abdominal surface is very much more convex. Sides compressed.

Snout short ; gape of mouth extending to below the posterior margin of the orbit. Maxilla
greatly elongated, reaching to opposite the last fourth of the pectoral, and equal to nearly a third
of the total length of the fish. A raised crest extends from the snout along the whole central line
of the head. Opercle narrow and octagonal, posterior margin having its central three-fifths
straight, directed a little obbquely backwards, and forming an obtuse angle at its upper and lower
fifths ; superior and inferior margins straight but very short. Preopercle with its posterior margin
nearly vertical. Branchiostegous opening very wide, extending nearly to the lower margin of the
symphysis.

Teeth — A series of fine villiform teeth in the lower jaw, also along the whole extent of the
elongated maxilla : only a few in the external half of each intermaxillary, and a few also on the
vomer. A long double line of fine teeth on the palatine bones, with a large oval toothed space on
the pterygoids.

Fins — Dorsal commences midway between the snout and the base of the caudal fin ; anal
midway between the anterior surface of the chest and the commencement of caudal : pectoral
arises below the posterior margin of the opercle, and reaches to the ventral. Dorsal triangular,
with a small spine a short distance before its first ray. Pectoral falciform. Anal with the anterior
portion the highest. Caudal lobed, lobes of equal length.

Scales — About thirteen sharp compressed scales along abdominal margin of the body anterior
to the commencement of the ventral fins, and seven between their termination and the origin of
the anal.

Colours — The upper surface of the body of a brilliant coppery tinge, closely dotted with black,
but becoming of a pure white on the sides. A large black spot on the shoulder. Dorsal with
minute black dots, more especially at its upper margin, otherwise it is colourless, as are also the
pectoral, anal, and ventral fins. Caudal fight straw-coloured, with a darkish tip. Eyes tinged
with brown superiorly, and yellow inferiorly.

Common during the S.W. monsoon, and considered good eating.

Habitat — Cochin on the Malabar Coast.

/;,/ /.

I 'I. ATI-: XIX

<'U,<.

-

/;./ .

/' Day,

I . LB 1'T II '' E r II A l. r S M v I

UARICl'S, 3 . E N G li A [• I. I S A r H A T I' S .

the fishes op malabar. -'->fj

* Engraulis Hamiltonii.

Engraulis Hamiltonii, Gray, 111. I. Z., pi. 92, f. 3 ; Guv. & Val. xxi. p. GG.
Poorawaii, Russell, pi. 18'J.

B. xii. D. TV P. 14. V. 7. A. 35-37. C. 18.
Body oblong and compressed.

Head thick, long : the posterior extremity of the maxilla passes the base of the pectoral fin.
Fins— Anal situated in the last half of the body and completely posterior to the dorsal fin.
Teeth — In both jaws, palate, and tongue.

Colours— Back plumbaceous, the rest of the body yellowish silvery. The dorsal, pectoral,
ventral, and caudal yellowish, the last bordered with black. Anal bluish.
Grows to nine inches in length.
Habitat — Seas of India.

Engraulis Malabaricus.

Clupea Malabarica, Block, pi. 432.
Engraulis Malabaricus, Guv. & Vol.. xxi. p. 63.
Monangoo, Mai.

B. xii. D. 13. P. 14. V. 7. A. 40. C. 19. L. 1. 42. L. tr. 11.

Length of head ^, of pectoral £, of caudal £, of base of dorsal TXT, of anal nearly 1 total
length. Height of head A, of body nearly \, of dorsal \, of ventral ^, of anal ^ of total length.

Eyes— With adipose lids each having a vertical elliptical orifice. Diameter A of length of head,
| of a diameter from end of snout, 1J diameters apart.

Body rather short, and strongly compressed. Profile from snout to caudal nearly straight ;
from anterior extremity of the mandibulae to the end of the anal fin it is strongly curved.

Mouth wide and compressed. Upper jaw the longest. The posterior extremity of the
maxilla reaches nearly to the posterior extremity of the subopercles : it has a supplementary bone
posteriorly in the first three-fourths of its course, opposite the inferior extremity of which
there is another bone irregularly elliptical at its extremity and quite fine at its upper end.
Lower jaw with an elevation at the symphysis, and the openings of three large glands along its
outer margin. Snout large, overhanging the upper jaw. A longitudinal sharp ridge along the
centre of the interorbital space. Nostrils large, and oval, surrounded by a raised bony arch.
Opercle three times as high as wide. Subopercle small and triangular, with its apex behind and

below.

Teeth — In single rows in the whole extent of the maxilla, and also on the mandibular : a very
small patch of sharp teeth on the anterior part of the vomer, and some fine deciduous ones on the

palatine bones.

Fins Pectoral commences under the posterior superior angle of the subopercle : dorsal

midway between the snout and the base of the caudal : ventral at the posterior extremity of the
pectoral : anal under the posterior extremity of the dorsal. Dorsal with a minute spine situated a
short distance before it, and partially concealed by the scales : the first three rays of the fin
undivided, the third the longest, and four times more so than the last : the upper margin nearly
straight : a groove of scales along its base. Pectoral pointed, with an elongated scale at its base.

240 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Ventral very small and triangular, with an elongated scale at its base. Anal highest in front, its
three first rays undivided, the fourth the highest, from whence they decrease, forming a concave
edge in the anterior half of the upper margin, but the last half is parallel to the back, a scaly groove
is present along its base, and highest opposite about the eighth ray. Caudal deeply lobed.

gcaleS_Vertical diameter the longest, very deciduous. Abdominal keel sharp, with about
twenty-seven spines along its extent : the largest being between the ventral and anal fins.

Colours— Greenish on the back shot with purplish, which towards the abdomen becomes
silvery white. The centre of each scale is rather the darkest, forming longitudinal lines which are
most apparent in the upper half of the body. A series of wide, deep, black bands commence from
behind the upper half of the opercle, and proceed backwards, dividing and subdividing, and cover-
ing a space about as wide as the orbit : these bands under a magnifying glass are seen to consist
of raised, round, black spots. Upper surface of the head greenish. Posterior margin of the orbit,
and the upper portions of the opercle and preopercle greenish golden. Iris yellowish. Posterior
half of the dorsal and its anterior margin stained with black. Pectoral, ventral, and anal fins
yellowish. Caudal stained with black at its posterior third. In the young the fins are darker than

in the adult.

Grows to about nine inches in length. It is common in Malabar, and is even captured in the
estuaries. Eaten by the Natives, but is bony, and not esteemed by Europeans.

Habitat — Seas of India.

b. Superior pectoral ray elongated and filamentous.
* Engraulis taty.
Engraulis taty, Guv. & Vol. xxi. p. 60 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 306.

B. xiii. D. rV P. 16. V. 7. A. 52-56. C. 19.

Length of head ^, of base of anal f, of first pectoral ray %, of second pectoral ray f of the
total length. Height of head ^ of the total length.

Eyes Horizontal diameter \ of the length of head; distance across the forehead \\ dia-
meters.

Mouth cleft far beyond the eyes, muzzle pointed and projecting.

Teeth — A few fine villiform ones on the vomer : numerous, and of the same description on
the palatine and pterygoid bones.

fins — Dorsal commences rather nearer to the snout than it does to the root of the caudal :
the anal commences opposite the centre of the dorsal. The ventral midway between the base of
the pectoral and the fifth anal ray. Upper lobe of caudal truncated.

Scales — Very deciduous and striated. Some exist on the base of anal and dorsal fins.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back green, or greenish slate colour, sparingly dotted
with black : sides above the lateral line pale silvery green ; the abdomen, cheeks, and opercles
silvery ; dorsal, caudal, and anal yellow ; ventrals and pectorals transparent ; in some the posterior
margin of the caudal is blackish. Iris silvery, orbital half bluish black. — (Cantor.)

Good eating either fresh or dried : grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. "41

Genus COILIA, Gray.

Trichosoma et TRiciiosoMUS, Swainson.
Ch^etomus, Mc Chlland.

Branchiostegals, about ten. Body elongated, compressed, and tapering to a pointed tail : abdomen
trenchant and toothed. Snout projecting, pointed: the nasal bones advanced in front of the jaws : mter-
inaxillaries soldered to the maxillaries, and hidden beneath the muzzle. Mouth cleft to far behind the eyes,
the upper jaw the longest. Dorsal placed in the anterior part of the back : anal elongated, low, joining
the caudal (in one species the tail is shortened and the caudal widened and rounded). Above the pectoral
fin are two groups of filaments parting from a common base. Teeth on upper and lower maxillaries, a few
on the anterior part of the vomer ; palatine and pterygoid bones narrow, bristling with minute teeth or
rough; anterior pharyngeals distinctly but minutely toothed. Scales moderate or small. Air vessel
present. Pyloric appendages numerous.

Coilia Eeynaldi.
Coilia Reynaldi, Guv. & Val. xxi. p. 81 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 310.

B.x. D.^.V P. tot v-15- A. 104-107. C. 11-15.

Length of head ^, of base of dorsal ^ of total length. Height of head \, of body $>, of
dorsal \, of anal about ^ of total length.

Eyes— Diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from end of snout, 1 \ diameters apart.

Body highest opposite the dorsal fin, long and tapering posteriorly to a point, also becoming
much smaller towards the head. Profile rises considerably to the dorsal, from whence it proceeds
straight to the caudal. Lower profile about equally curved with the upper. Body strongly com-
pressed, its sides being quite flat.

Mouth wide and cleft oblique, posterior extremity of the maxilla extending nearly to the end of
the opercles, close to the origin of the pectoral fin. Snout overhanging the upper jaw, which
also is longer than the mandibula3. Opercle rounded posteriorly. Gill openings wide.

Teeth Fine in both jaws, and very minute along the whole anterior margin of the maxilla.

Fins Pectoral arises close to the posterior margin of the opercles in the lower fifth of the

body : the dorsal commences in the first fourth : the ventral beneath it : the anal under and
slightly beyond the posterior margin of the dorsal. Dorsal with a short spine a very little distance
anterior to the fin : the anterior margin is the highest, the third ray being the longest, from
whence they gradually decrease to the last. Pectoral pointed, with the upper four rays prolonged
to nearly the middle of the body. Anal continuous with the caudal, and parallel to the abdominal

profile.

Scales — Deciduous ; twelve sharp spines exist along the abdominal keel.

Lateral line — Straight, passing from the upper part of the opercle to the centre of the caudal fin.

Colours — Silvery white with pinkish reflections : a line of white dots passes along the lower
surface of the abdomen, and another commences opposite the centre of the opercle and is continued
backwards towards the centre of the caudal. End of the caudal stained blackish. A slight
greyish streak runs down the centre of the back. Opercles of a bright silvery tint.

Not rare in Malabar ; generally found during the south-west monsoon. It grows to four
inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of Malabar, Burmah, and Malaysia.

2 i

242 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

* COILIA DuSSUMIERI.

Coilia Dussumieri, Cuv. & Vol. xxi. p. 81, pi. 610.

D. 14. P. &. V. 7. A. 80. C. 11. L. 1. 60.

Distinguishable from the C. Reynaldi by the size of the pectoral, the free rays of which are
rather shorter : and the dorsal is not quite so pointed.

Teeth — Fine and similar to the C. Reynaldi.

Colours — Body of a brilliant golden, having two or three irregular rows of T3acreous spots
along its inferior half.

Grows to six inches in length, and is considered good eating at Bombay, where it is common
and abundant throughout the whole year.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India.

Genus CHATOESSUS, Guvier.

Branchiostegals, about six. Body short, deep, oval, and moderately compressed : abdomen trenchant
and denticulated. Eyes with lateral adipose lids. Muzzle projecting, intermaxillary small, attached to the
extremity of the snout, and with what looks like a fibrous lip stretched from its extremity and continuing
it to the upper end of the maxilla, which bone is placed behind it, and articulates with the tuberosity of
the nasal. There is an emargination at the end of the upper jaw and a corresponding tubercle on the
lower. A single dorsal, medial, with the last ray prolonged in some species. Ventral in front of or under
dorsal. Anal elongated and behind the dorsal. Caudal forked. No teeth. The superior combs of the
first branchial arches unite with those of the opposite side, forming a pennated point under the palate.
Air vessel large, rounded anteriorly, and pointed posteriorly. Pyloric appendages numerous.

Chatoessus CHACUNDA.

Clupanodon chacunda, Ham. Buck. pp. 246, 383.

Chatoessus chacunda, Cuv. & Vol. xxi. p. Ill ; Cantor. Catal. p. 311.

B. vi. D. 19-20. P. 17. V. 8. A. 20. C. 19. L. 1. 45. L. tr. 11-13.

Length of head ^T, of pectoral -^, of caudal \, of base of dorsal -fj, of base of anal -^ of
total length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal yT, of ventral y1^, of anal about ^ of the
total length.

Eyes — Covered on their anterior and posterior thirds by adipose lids, having vertical elliptical
openings : diameter £■ of the length of head, f of a diameter from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body rather oval : abdominal profile sharp and keeled.

Lower jaw the longest, the superior slightly emarginate at the symphysis, receiving the upper
portion of the lower jaw : cleft of mouth narrow : maxilla extends posteriorly to opposite the
anterior third of the orbit, and has supplementary bones posterior to it. Opercle placed rather
obliquely, twice and a fourth as high as broad : exposed portion of the subopercle wider than
high. Preopercle of moderate width, angle rounded, lower limb horizontal. Interorbital space
smooth, rather elevated longitudinally along the central line : some raised ridges bound the
posterior portion of a triangular depression on the summit of the head, passing from the posterior

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 243

superior margin of the orbit obliquely backwards towards tho central line. Preorbital long, wide,
very apparent, from there being some dark lines on it. Nostrils round and near the snout.

Teeth — A minute row in the anterior portion of tho lower jaw.

Fins— Pectoral arises close under the posterior third of the subopercle : dorsal opposite its
extremity, midway between the snout and the base of the caudal ; ventral opposite the fifth dorsal
ray : anal midway between tho base of the ventral and that of the caudal. Pectoral pointed.
Ventral with an elongated scale at its base, the first ray very broad and undivided. Dorsal, first
three rays undivided, a broad row of scales runs along the base of tho fin, completely covering the
last six rays, the fin is highest in front, and slopes posteriorly, its summit being concave. Anal
almost hidden by a row of scales. Caudal deeply lobed and scaled over its base.

Scales— Ctenoid, large and adherent. There are twenty-eight spines along the abdominal

profile.

Lateral line— Not apparent.

Colours Back bluish or greenish-silvery, with three or four darker longitudinal lines along

the centre of the upper rows of scales. Sides silvery, glossed with gold. Snout and upper end of
the mandibular black. Some fine black dots on the upper portion of the opercle which are more
numerous on the shoulder, where they form a black mark. Pectoral, ventral, and anal yellowish, a
few black dots along the first ray of the pectoral. Dorsal yellowish, with the anterior portion of
the base of the first three rays black, and the upper part of the fin minutely dotted with black.
Caudal darkest at its extremity, and shot with blue.

Grows to eight inches in length, and is esteemed for eating by the Natives, but not by Euro-
peans as it is bony and dry.

Habitat— Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia, and the Moluccas.

Chatoessus altus.
Chatoessus altus, Gray, 111. Ind. Zool. pi. 91, £ 2.
? Kome, Russell, pi. 196.
Pedda Kome, Russell, pi. 197.
Noonah, Mai.

B. vi. D. 18-19. P. 15. V. 9. A. 23-25. C. 19. L. 1. 48. L. tr. 18.

Length of head \, of pectoral r2T, of caudal y2T, of base of dorsal f5, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head T2T, of body \, of dorsal filament \, of anal -fa, of ventral \ of total length.

Eyes With broad adipose membranes, having vertical elliptical openings. Diameter \ of

length of head, § of a diameter from the end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body elliptical, but tapering off more towards the caudal than towards the head. Upper and
lower profiles about equally curved, profile to anterior margin of the anal sharp and keeled with a
row of twenty-eight sharp pointed scales along its edge.

Mouth a third longer than it is broad, overhung by the snout : upper jaw the longest, and
the intermaxillaries triangular and broad, forming three-fourths of the upper lip, extending poste-
iorlv to below the anterior margin of the orbit. Maxilla extends to beneath the anterior third of
the orbit. Mandibula wedge-shaped anteriorly. Opercle rather narrow, twice as high as wide, the
posterior margin rather convex, and the anterior slightly more so. Preopercle broad, with rounded
angles. Sub- and interopercles of moderate size. The uncovered branchiostegous membrane is
broad. Nostrils rather wide apart, the posterior oval and the anterior round, both opposite the

2 i2

r

044 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

anterior superior margin of the orbit. Summit of head lanceolate, and moderately flat, broadest
opposite the centre of the orbits. A small lanceolate longitudinal furrow passes from opposite
the centre of the orbit to the snout ; posteriorly it has an elevated ridge.

Teeth— None.

Fins — Pectoral arises close under the posterior margin of the subopercle, and extends to the
ventral, which commences opposite the fourth ray of the dorsal : anal arises on the posterior third
from the snout to the base of the caudal. Dorsal with its first three rays unbranched, the third
the highest, upper margin of the fin concave, the last ray with its posterior half prolonged as far
as the base of the caudal. Pectoral pointed. Ventral small, with a long scale at its base. Anal
with the first two rays unbranched, the second the longest, the fin rather concave. Caudal wide,
and deeply forked.

Scales — High and narrow. None on the head.

Colours — Back greyish-green, with the centre of each scale in the first seven rows the darkest,
thus forming horizontal fines, the lower of which do not extend to the caudal. Abdomen whitish,
shot with gold. A bluish spot at the posterior portion of the upper half of the opercle. Pre-
opercle of a brilliant golden tint. Dorsal greenish-yellow, with the posterior margin stained
blackish. Pectoral, ventral, anal, and caudal yellowish, the last with a darkish extremity.

Common, good eating, but rather bony.

Habitat — Seas of India and China.

Sub-Oed. PHYSOSTOMI APODES.

Tarn. MUR^NID^.

Sub-Fam. ANGUILLOIDEI, Bleeker.

Genus MUILENA, Bleeker.
Enchelyopus, Ag.
Anguilla, Thumb.

Branchiostegals from ten to thirteen, thin and flexible. Body cylindrical. Snout, not prominent
before the lower jaw. Dorsal, caudal, and anal fins continuous, well developed. Many rows of sub-equal
small teeth, on the palatines, inframaxillaries, nasal, vomer, and pharyngeals. Scales small, almost hidden
in the skin. Branchial aperture situated on either side before the base of either pectoral fin.

Mur^ena maculata.

MuEiENA maculata, Ham. Bucli. pp. 23, 364 ; Bleeker, Atl. Ich. iv. p. 9, t. 145, f. 2.

Mur^na Bengaliensis, Gray, 111. I. Z. i. t. f. 5.

Anguilla Elphinstonii, Sykes, Trans. Zool. Soc. ii. p. 377, t. 67, f. 3.

Anguilla variegata, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. p. 179, t. 9, f. 7.

Anguilla maemorata, Kaup. Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 43, £ 32.

Anguilla Dussumieri, Kaup. Catal. Brit Mus. p. 51, f. 43.

Anguilla Malabarica, Kaup. Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 52, f. 47.

B. xi. D. 240-260. C. 12. A. 220-230. P. 22-24.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 245

Length of head J, of pectoral fa of base of dorsal §, of base of anal nearly f of the total
length. Height of head fa of body fa of dorsal about fa of anal about jfe of the total length.
Eyes — Diameter 1 to ^5 in the length of the head, 2 to 3 diameters apart.
Body anteriorly cylindrical, posteriorly compressed, head depressed.

Opening of mouth extends to opposite or even behind the posterior border of the orbit : the
upper jaw rather the shortest. Posterior opening of nostrils high, and close to the anterior margm
of the eye ; the anterior nostril tubular, and near to the antero -lateral margin of the snout. A row
of pores exists along either mandible on its lower surface. Branchial aperture oval, and situated
just in front of the pectoral fin.

Teeth— In lower jaw in several rows anteriorly, decreasing in number posteriorly. On the
vomer in a crowded semi-oval spot, becoming pointed behind, but in front its sides almost touch
the palatine bands, which are of the same shape. Pharyngeal teeth on two oval patches above,
and below on two elongated triangles.

Fms The pectoral rounded. The dorsal commences the length of the head below the origin

of the anal : or slightly before it, Murmna {anguilla) Malabarica, Kaup : or over it, Murcena
[anguilla) Dussumieri, Kaup. Caudal rounded.
Scales — Small, but visible.

Lateral line— Marked by distant pores in its first three quarters, posterior to which tubes are
better developed.

Colours — Brownish green above, fading to dirty white on the abdomen. The whole of the
upper part of the body appears as if it were covered by bamboo matting.

Common, and excellent eating. It grows to four feet in length. Its comparative thickness
varies greatly in different places, and according to the seasons of the year.

Habitat — Fresh waters and estuaries of India, Malaysia, and the Society Islands.

Sub-Fam. CONGROIDEI, Sleeker.

Group CONGRIFORMES, Sleeker.

Sub-Group MURiENESOCES, Sleeker.

Genus MUE^NESOX, McClelland,

Branchiostegals, from fifteen to twenty-two. Body moderately elongated : tail more than twice aa
long aa the body. Mouth cleft far behind the eyes ; snout thin and elevated : maxilla elongated : the
anterior nostril perforating above the margin of the upper lip before the middle of the eyes, the posterior
open and thrown far behind the apex of the snout. Vertical fins well developed ; the dorsal commencing
above or before the branchial aperture : the dorsal, caudal, and anal continuous. Pectoral present. Teeth,
those of the palatines in from one to three rows : the nasal and mandibular elongated anteriorly and subu-
late : vomerine teeth in three series, the central row elongated and compressed. Scales absent. Branchial
aperture semicircular on either side of body, and not confluent with one another. Heart near the branchiae.
Anus a long distance posterior to the branchial aperture.

246 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

MUR.ENESOX TELABON.

Tala Bon, Russell, pi. 38.

Conger telabon, Cnvier, R£g. an. p. 350.

Mur^enesox lanceolata, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. iv. p. 409, et v. pp. 181, 210.

Mur^enesox exodon, Mc Clelland, Cal. J. N. H. iv. p. 409.

Mur^enesox serradentata, McClelland, ibid.

Mur^enesox exodentata, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. pp. 180, 210, pi. 8, f. 4.

Conger telabon, Cantor, Catal. p. 312.

Mur^enesox pristis, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 116.

Murjenesox telabon, Bleeker, Atl. Ich. iv. p. 22, pi. 152, f. 2.

B. xv-xxii. D. 238-287. C. 9-11. A. 151-213. P. 15-16.

The comparative proportions vary considerably with age, season, and the health of the fish.

Length of head about \ to \, of pectoral yjy of the total length. Height of head about § of
that of the body. Height of body from about jg to ^ of the total length. Height of dorsal fin
about ^ of height of body.

Eyes — Diameter from \ to ^ in the length of the head, 1 diameter apart, 3 diameters from
end of snout.

Body much elongated and strongly compressed, especially towards the tail. Head elongated
and conical.

Snout very acute : upper jaw slightly the longest, the lower laterally compressed, but both of
about equal width, with their anterior extremities rather expanded, causing the muzzle to be some-
what rounded. Mouth widely cleft, the anterior margin of the orbit being about midway between
the snout and the cleft of the mouth. The anterior nasal orifice sub-tubular, and placed just
above the lip at the termination of the groove, the posterior oblong and situated before the middle
of the orbit. Gill openings small. A transverse series of pores exist across the crown of the
head.

Teeth — In lower jaw in several rows internally, and a strong external row directed outwards,
separated from the internal series by an edentulous interspace : round the anterior margin of the
jaw a row of conical teeth, and an internal somewhat large row of ten or twelve. Palatine teeth
anteriorly in one row, posteriorly in many : the vomer with a central row of large lanceolate ones,
with a small interspace between each, and having a small row on either side. Nasal teeth in a
single central series, whilst round the anterior extremity of the snout two rows exist, the same
as in the mandibular.

Fins — Dorsal commences a short distance before the base of the pectoral : the anal under
about the fifty-fifth dorsal ray, just posterior to the anus. Each fin ray arises by two distinct roots,
and the separate portions, though closely approximating continue distinct.

Lateral fine — Gradually descends from the upper third of the body to the central line, which
it reaches in the anterior fourth of the total length. It consists of tubes sending two branches
downwards, between which is a pore.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back olive, becoming brown posteriori}-. Abdomen
dirty white, becoming silvery inferiorly. The throat, cheeks, and gill-covers shot with golden

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 2-17

green. Eye silvery, with a purplish tinge along its upper half. Dorsal, caudal, and anal dirty
white, margined with deep black. Pectorals dirty yellow.

It grows to eight feet in length, and is generally considered good eating. Bkeker observes
that it is coarse in the Straits. Wounds from its teeth are much dreaded.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India and Malaysia.

Sub-Fam. OPHISUROIDEI, Sleeker.
Group OPHISURI, Sleeker.

Genus OPHICHTHYS, AM.

MuRiENOPSis, Les.

PiECILOCEPHALUS, Lp.

Centrurophis, microdonophis, c.ectlophis, HEEPETOICHTHYS, elapsopis, echiopsis,

SCYTALOPHIS, LEPTORHINOPHIS, et CRYPTO PTERUS, Kdlip.
Branchiostegals, from seventeen to thirty-five. Body eel-like or vermiform, greatly elongated, its
height from one-twentieth to one-fortieth in its length. Cleft of mouth moderate or large. Lips not
frino-ed ; posterior nostril perforating the upper lip on its internal or lower aspect. Teeth very or mode-
rately acute, situated in from one to three rows on the palatines and mandibular, and in from one to four
rows on the vomer. Dorsal, pectoral, and anal fins well developed ; no fin at end of tail : the dorsal com-
mences above or behind the branchial aperture, which is single, semi-lunar, and on each side. Heart near
to the branchial aperture. No scales.

* Ophichthys ornatissimus.

Herpetoichthys ornatissimus, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 7, fig. 5.

Total length 20-88 in. Length of tail, 9'46 in. Length from the tip of the snout to the
gill openings, 2-56 in. Length of the pectoral 0-63 in.

Head depressed, so that the eyes which are near to the end of the snout are closer to the upper
surface than they are distant from each other laterally. Snout short : jaws of nearly equal length.
Anterior tubular nostril at the extremity of the snout and the hinder one at the commencement of
the outer row of the palatine teeth : between the two on the border of the upper lip there is a small

cutaneous tag. Gullet wide.

Teeth Nasal six : three of them on the mesial line and the foremost, two of them standing

nearly abreast. Vomerine teeth nine, standing irregularly to the right and left. Exterior palatine
teeth sixteen, inner row twenty. Mandibular teeth twenty-four.

Fins. Pectoral with twenty-four rays. The dorsal fin begins 0-59 in. behind the tip of the

pectoral, and is not much developed.

C0iours Irreo-ular dark spots on the head. On the occiput a transverse line of white spots,

and two longitudinal ones : while between the eyes there are curved whitish lines. Along the
lateral line there are sixteen or seventeen large round black spots, which are parted by another
band of spots of different sizes. Dorsal fin with black marginal spots and stripes.— {Kaup.)

This specimen is said to have been brought from Malabar by Dussumier.

Habitat — Malabar.

248 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Genus PISOODONOPHIS, Kaup.

Branchiostegals from twenty-one to thirty-one. Body eel-like or vermiform, greatly elongated, its
heiglit from one twenty-second to one forty-sixth in its length. Caudal portion not much longer than the
trunk. Head acutely convex, cleft of mouth moderate. Lips not fringed. Posterior nostril perforating
the upper lip on its internal or lower aspect. Teeth obtuse and granular, in many rows on the nasal,
palatine, vomer, and mandibular bones. Dorsal, anal, and pectoral fins present, none at the end of tail.
Dorsal commences behind the branchial aperture, which is single, semi-lunar, and on either side. Pectoral
well developed.

PlSOODONOPHIS BORO.

Ophisurus boro, Ham. Buck. pp. 20, 363 ; Gray, 111. I. Z. i. pi. 95, f. 1 ; McClelland,

Cal. J. N. H. v. pp. 185, 211.
Ophisurus harancha, Ham. Buck. pp. 21, 363; Gray, 111. I. Z. i. pi. 95, f. 2;

McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. p. 211, pi. 12, f. 4.
Ophisurus caudatus, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. p. 185, pi. 12, f. 3.
Ophisurus boro, Cantor, Catal. p. 322, pi. 5, f. 2 (teeth).
Pisoodonophis boro, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 17 ; Sleeker, Atl. Icli. iv. p. 62, 1. 164, f. 3.

B. xxix-xxxi. D. 315-402. P. 12-13. A. 205-270.

Length of head -f§ to ^ in the total length, and ^ of the distance between the snout and the
anus. Height of body 3^ to 3V3 of the total length.

Eyes — Diameter -j^ to TV in the length of the head, 2 to 2J diameters from end of snout,
2 diameters apart.

Body cylindrical and much elongated, compressed and tapering in its posterior sixth or seventh.

Snout longer than wide at its base, its apex rather fleshy, and one diameter of the eye longer
than the lower jaw : the distance from the snout to the angle of the mouth equals two-sevenths of
the length of the head : the cleft extends behind the eye. The anterior nasal aperture opens close
to the symphysis in a tube rather shorter than the diameter of the orbit : the posterior aperture
perforates the lower surface of the lip. From between the orbits on either side is a line of fine pores
extending to the muzzle, whilst there are three behind the eyes, and other rows along the jaws and
behind the occiput.

Teeth — The nasal teeth cover a small oblong space, they consist of three or four rows, are from
sixteen to eighteen in number, of rather irregular sizes, and have globular crowns : the vomerine
teeth are placed on an elongated oval patch which extends further posteriorly than do the pala-
tines : the palatine patch is longest in front and extends close to the nasal teeth, their crowns are
rounded ; the mandibular teeth are placed in a band broadest in front, and there is a small eden-
tulous interspace on the symphysis between those of either side, the anterior ones are the longest,
and larger than the corresponding ones in the palatines.

Fins — The dorsal commences a short distance behind the apex of the pectoral, and half the
length of the head or even more behind the branchial aperture. Pectoral rounded, and from one-
fourth to one-fifth of the length of the head. Dorsal rays one-third of the height of the body,
there is a groove along the base of the fin. Anal rays about the same length as those of the
dorsal, a groove also along its base.

Lateral line — At first in the upper third of the body, it reaches the centre opposite the anus
and is thus continued to the caudal : it consists of minute pores.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

_'!'.!

Colours— Superiorly olive green, becoming whito along the abdomen. Dorsal greenish with
a black margin : anal whitish with a dark margin : pectoral yellowish.
Not rare in the backwater : is eaten by the Natives.
Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India, and Malaysia.

Sub-Fam. GYMNOTHORACOIDEI, Bleeker.

Group MURjENOPHIDES, Bleeker.

Genus GYMNOTHORAX, Bloch.

MuRiENOPHis, Lacip.
MuRiENA, Cuvier.

SlDERA, ENCHELYNASSA, EURYMYCTERA, ENCHELYCORE, LIMAMURjENA, THYRSOIDEA, (pt.),
POLYURANODON, et T^ENIOPHIS, KdUp.

Thverodontis, strophidon (pt.), et lycodontis, McClelland.

Body eel-like compressed, its height less than one-thirtieth of its length : the tail and the body of
nearly equal lengths. Cleft of mouth large, and extending behind the orbits, jaws of nearly equal length :
the posterior nostril situated above the margin of the orbit. Teeth sharp, conical, or compressed, in from
one to four rows, those in palatines and mandibular always pointed and sharp. Pectoral fin absent : a fin
at the extremity of the tail. The dorsal commences before or above the branchial apertures. Lateral
line absent, or marked by minute pores. Heart situated near to the branchial apertures which are single,
linear, and in about the mid-height of the body. Scales absent.

Gymnothorax tile.

Mur^enophis tile, Ham. Bach. pp. 18, 363.

Lycodontis punctata, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. p. 187.

Strophidon punctata, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. p. 203, t. 7, f. 3.

Strophidon maculata, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. p. 203, t. 8, f. 1.

Lycodontis literata, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. p. 215, t. 7, f. 2.

Mur^ena tile, Cantor, Catal. p. 331.

Thyrsoidea tile, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 93, f. 66.

Gymnothorax tile, Bleeker, Atl. Ich. iv. p. 97, t. 178, f. 1.

D. 312-325. C. 10. A. 154-172.

Length of head about l of total length. Height of head J5, of body rW?' of dorsal ^mi
y'p, of anal about ^5 of total length.

Eyes — Diameter from ^ to tV °f length of head, 2 diameters from end of snout.

Body elongated and compressed.

Opening of mouth horizontal. Eyes above the middle of the cleft. Snout rather longer
than the lower jaw : upper profile of snout horizontal, with a concavity over the eye, and a sudden
rise on the back of the head and nape. Nostrils, the anterior tubular, the posterior not so.
There are some well marked open pores along the jaws.

2 K

250 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Teeth — In the palate conical and acute, anteriorly in two but posteriorly in a single row, those
in the outer row the shortest, and fourteen or fifteen in number : the inner row of five or seven.
Nasal teeth, a mesial row of three large ones : those on the vomer in a single row, sometimes
formino- two, and from twelve to twenty-four in number. In the lower jaw there are twenty-four
conical teeth, which towards the symphysis form two rows, but laterally only one.

Fins_Dorsal arises slightly before the branchial aperture. The anal commences about the
centre of the body, and is lower than the dorsal.

Lateral line — Little apparent.

Colours — Ground colour yellowish olive, forming reticulations between numerous black spots
and blotches, which are distributed over the whole of the head and body.

Grows to two feet in length, and is very common in Malabar.

Habitat — Fresh waters and estuaries of India and Malaysia.

* Gymnothorax favaginea.

MuRjEna favaginea, Cuvier, Rfeg. An. ; Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 68, f. 53.

Gymnothorax faviginea, Block. Schn. 525, t. 105.

Th^erodontis reticulatus, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. July, 1854.

" Total length 28-26 in. Length of tail, 14-18 in. To the gill opening, 3-78 in. Length of
jaws, 1-69 in."

Teeth — " Nasal teeth twelve : on the mesial line three : palatines three : vomerines eleven
or twelve : mandibulars eighteen, of which the foremost five are the longest. Between the second

and third foreones there is a little toothlet which is easily overlooked In a specimen

from Malabar, I could perceive only a single row of ten or twelve teeth in the middle of the vomer.
Another, a stuffed one sent from Pondicherry, by Leschenault, shows two distinct rows, which
towards the gullet, run into one series. I consider two rows of vomerines to be the normal
number." — Kaup.

Colours— Every part of the body and head marked with black pentagonal spots separated by

narrow white lines.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India.

Fam. SYNBRANCHIDiE.

Sub-Fam. SYNBRANCHOIDEI, Bleeker.

Group STNBEANCHINI, Bleeker.

Genus SYNBKANCHUS, Block

Unibranchapertura, Lacep.
Unipertura, Kaup.
Ophisternon, Mc Clelland.
Tetrabranchus, Bleeker.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 251

Branchiostegals, apparently four. Body much elongated. Eyes covered with skin. Nostrils double.
The deutal border of the upper jaw is formed by the intermaxillanes and not by the palatine bones, it is
protrnsible and overlapped superiorly in almost its entire length by a very thin maxilla. Teeth in inter-
maxillarics, mandibular, and palatine bones in several rows. Pectoral fins absent. Vertical fins adipose
and rudimentary. No accessory respiratory sac. The external branchial aperture single, transverse, and
situated on the lower aspect of the body ; the cavity not divided internally. No scales. The circulation
approaches to that of the reptiles, the branchial artery ramifying not only in the respiratory organs but
also on the head and in the brain.

Synbranchus Bengaliensis.

Ophisteknon Bengaliensis, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. v. pp. 197, 220, t. 2, f. 1, 2 ;

Kaup. Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 121, f. 76.
Synbranchus immaculatus, Cantor, Catal. p. 337.
Synbranchus Bengaliensis, Bleeher, Atl. Icli. iv. p. 119, t. 192, f. 1.

Length of head ^ to yg in length of body.

Eyes — Diameter about ^\j of length of head.

Body much elongated, cylindrical anteriorly, compressed posteriorly. The girth of the body
is equal to about three times its height. The skin thin.

Snout acute, anteriorly rounded, lips fleshy, the upper jaw rather the longest : cleft of mouth
extending to some distance behind the orbits. Nostrils placed between the orbits near to their
anterior superior margins.

Teeth — Intermaxillary teeth conical, and do not meet at the symphysis, those on either side
terminating in a triangular patch with a narrow edentulous interspace ; those in the lower jaw
are rather larger, and there is a narrow edentulous interspace between those of each side, laterally
they are in a single row. Palatine teeth in a single row.

Fins — The dorsal commences before the anal, which is situated in the last fourth or fifth of
the total length : the caudal is hardly conspicuous : all the fins are low.

Lateral line — Conspicuous.

Colours — Of a dull dirty brownish red in the estuaries of Malabar, lightest on the abdomen.
In clearer water it is greenish or blackish green, the abdomen being the lightest.

Grows to several feet in length, and is not rare in the backwaters and estuaries of Malabar.
It also may be captured in the fresh water. It appears to be more common in Bengal.

Habitat — Estuaries and fresh waters within the influence of the tides along the coasts of India
and Malaysia.

Fam. LEPTOCEPHALIDjE.
Genus LEPTOCEPHALUS, Linn.

Body soft, elongated, compressed, diaphanous, and scaleless. Vertebral column rudimentary and car-
tilaginous. Intestinal canal straight and tubular. Teeth present or absent. Vertical fins rudimentary.
Pectoral present or absent.

2 k 2

2i)2 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Leptocephalus Malabaeicus. Plate XIX. Fig. 1.

Leptocephalus Malabaeicus, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 308.

Length of specimen 3^ inches. Lateral muscles about 212.

Length of head -jL of total length. Height of head about jfc, of body jVj, of dorsal fin about ^5,
of anal about ^ of total length.

Eyes— In the centre of the height of the head : diameter \ of length of head, 1 diameter from
end of snout.

Profile from snout nearly horizontal to the upper margin of the occiput, from whence it is
slightly raised. Body very compressed.

Mouth cleft to beyond the posterior margin of the orbit : snout produced overlapping the
lower lip.

Probably due to accident, a circular hole exceeding the diameter of the eye, exists at the
posterior extremity of the anterior two-fifths of the body, midway below the vertebral column and
the ventral surface : also a notch near the under surface of the caudal.

Fins — Destitute of rays. The dorsal commences a short distance behind the head, and is con-
tinuous with the caudal and anal. Anal occupies the posterior half of the body. Pectoral absent.
Caudal short.

Colours — Body whitish. Eye golden, its lower surface orange. A line of yellow spotted
with green proceeds backwards from the eye, a second from the mouth, which last also traverses
the lower lip.

This little fish was brought alive, and remained about two hours swimming about in a globe of
water.

* Leptocephalus acuticaudatus.

Leptocephalus acuticaudatus, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 151, f. 16.

Head moderately blunt. Ring-like dots on the anterior part of the ventral border.

Teeth — Absent.

Fins — Caudal and pectoral pointed. The dorsal fin, destitute of visible rays, begins near the
head.

Colours — The pigmentary rings on the fore part of the ventral rim pass into black points,
which probably extend to the tip of the tail.

This specimen was brought from Malabar by Dussumier.

Habitat — Malabar.

* Leptocephalus Dussumieei.
Leptocephalus Dussumieei, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 151, f. 17.

" Blag. A very small head, no teeth, and a pointed tail destitute of a caudal fin. No dots
either on the lateral line or along the edge of the belly.

Descr. Three examples exist in the Paris Museum, one of which is dried up to the thinness of
paper ; and a small one was sent from Malabar by Dussumier. It is a moderately elongated
species, whose transverse muscular furrows are very fine, and not near each other. The pectorals
are wanting. In none of the fins could I discover rays." — Kaup.

THE FISHES OF MALABAE. 253

Order.-P LECTOGNATHI.

Sub-Oeder.-OSTRACIONID;E.

Fam. OSTRACIONOIDEI, Bleeher.

Genus OSTRACION, Linn.

L.ETOPHRYS, et tetkosomus, Swainson.
Acanthostracion, BleeJcer.

Branchioste-als, si,. Body shortened and angular, invested by a solid covering composed of fibre-
osseou af^ Pla es placed I juxtaposition, leaving holes for the mouth, eyes, gdl openmgs dorsal
Inland Caudal L. Each jaw with from ten to twelve conical teeth ; the maxnl, and mtermaxdl* are

2 LMZ with the sides of the ventral keel posteriorly armed with spines : 3. Tetrosomus, preorb, a
pine toe ted upwards, and ventral keel spinate, or armed posteriorly by a strong spme; m som e the
Tt rtr uperi r extr mity of the carapace transformed into a strong spine: 4 AcantUstranon, preorbiM
SnSd forwards. Ventral keel posteriorly armed with a strong spne : m some the dorsal keel .
also armed with a strong spine, in others the spines (except the anal) are absent.

OSTRACION NASUS.

Ostracion nasus, Block, t. 138 ; BleeJcer, Atl. Ich. v. p. 36 t 202, f. 5.
Osteacium tesserula, Cantor, Catal. p. 367, pi. m £ 2, 3, ^nature.)

R ' D 9 P 10 A 9 C. 8. L. 1. 12. L. tr. 5.

LeTgth of head f , of pectoral h of caudal f of the total length. Height of head h of body
above 1 °of dorsal 1, of anal 1 of the total length.

^^-Notfar from profile: diameter J of the length of the head, 1 dieter from end of

"Body tetragonal, the back elongated, forming rather a long oval, and slightly convex, owing
to its havL a raised longitudinal crest, which is most prominent near to the base of he dorsal fin
The larTerse diameter Loss the back is rather more than the height of the body, the abdommal
surface is slightly broader. The vertical diameter of the sides is concave much more so m the
very voung, as eight-tenths of an inch in length, than in another twice that length ; also there * a
IZZ groove along either side of the mesial crest of the body between * and the supenor

laterTereth-In the Cochin specimens only eight in each jaw; sharp, rather distant, red and
gleaming: some are probably absent, as there should be twelve in the upper and ten m the
lower jaw.

fZ-£ dorsal is situated in the posterior sixth of the back the anal rather behind it.
Caudal rather broad and rounded at its extremity. Pectoral broad and fan-shaped. All the rays
are unbranched.

254 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Plates— Consist of hexagonal pieces with ctenoid margins, from the centre of each hexagon
six raised lines radiate towards its margins.

Colours— Bright orange with numerous black spots along the sides, which are not situated
in the centre of the plates; some black spots also exist over the caudal and on the base of the
pectoral, the fins are yellowish, the abdominal surface of a whitish yellow. Pupil golden.

Of the only two specimens taken in Cochin, the largest was not two inches in length. Dr.
Bleeker has fully described the Ostracion tesserula, and identified it as the young of the O. nanus,

Bloch.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar, Malaysia, and New Guinea.

Ostracion tetragonus.
Ostracion tetragonus, Linn, Mus. ad Frider, p. 59, Atl. tab. 201, 203 ; Bleeker, Atl.

Ich. v. p. 39, pi. 201, f. 2.
? Ostracium nasus, Cantor, Catal. p. 369.

B. vi. D. 9. P. 10. A. 9. C. 8. L. 1. 12. L. tr. 7.

Length of head £, of pectoral -}, of caudal \, of base of dorsal TV> of base of anal T\ of the
total length. Height of head \, of body \, of dorsal 1 of anal \ of the total length.

Eyes— Close to profile, diameter § of length of head, 2 diameters apart anteriorly, nearly 3
posteriorly, If diameters from end of snout.

Body nearly quadrangular, profile from snout to forehead slightly convex, of back straight or
a little convex, back elongated, forming rather a long oval, and slightly convex owing to its being a
little highest along the mesial line. Hardly any nasal protuberance in a specimen b£> inches in
length. The height of the body is equal to the transverse width of the back, but the breadth of
the abdomen is slightly more. The vertical diameter of the sides is rather concave. Interorbital
space slightly concave.

Lips fleshy. Nostrils close to anterior superior margin of orbit.

Teeth— Nine to eleven, the six central ones being slightly the largest, but becoming blunted

with age.

Fins— The dorsal commences in the posterior fifth of the back opposite to the anus, but
rather before the anal fin, which last arises opposite its last ray. Caudal broad and triangular.
Pectoral broad and rather pointed.

Plates— Consist of pentagonal, hexagonal, or heptagonal plates with finely serrated or ctenoid
margins, and covered with small bony tubercles arranged parallel to their margins. There are five
and two half-rows vertically on the sides.

Colours— Greenish or yellowish olive, with one— rarely more— large dark spot generally in
the centre of each plate along the sides, on the back each has a white centre : about the snout
they are black and more numerous : the abdomen of a light colour. Fins transparent, with a
round brown mark on the base of the dorsal, and a few scattered spots or blotches over the caudal.
Eyes greenish yellow.

This specimen was slightly above five inches in length, but it grows to more than a foot.
Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, and Malaysia to Japan.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 255

Sub-order G YMNODONTI D^E.

Fam. TETRAODONTOIDEI, Bleeker.

Sub-Fam. TETRAODONTIFORMES, Bleeker.

Group TETRAODONTINI, Bleeker.

Genus TETRAODON, Linn.
Lagocephalus, Swainson.

Physogaster, gastrophysus, et cheilichthys, Mull.
Stenometopus, promecocephalus, amblyrhynchotus, geneion, cataphorhynchus, et

BATRACII0PS, Bib.

Anchisomus, pt. Kaup.

Brachycephalus, et apsicephalus, pt. Holl.

Uranostoma, et pleuranacanthus, Mus. Par.

Branchiostegals, from four to six. Body oblong, not keeled. The maxillae and intermaxillaries
soldered together, and appearing like a parrot's bill invested with dentary enamel, trenchant, and divided
or continuous in the mesial line. Nostrils in the shape of small foraminse, perforating either side of a
more or less elevated papilla. Body partially spined or altogether smooth. Dorsal and anal fins short.
Branchial orifice consisting of a slender slit. Vertebral column with never more than thirty vertebra?, of
which ten or less belong to the trunk.

JB

Tetraodon lunaris.

Tetraodon lunaris, Cuvier, Reg. An. Ed. 1, ii. p. 148 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 378 ;

Bleeker, Atl. Ich. v. p. pi. 205, f. 2.
Kappa koorawah, Russell, pi. 30.
Tetrodon tepa, Ham. Buck. pp. 10, 362.
Tetrodon leiopleura, Gray, HI. I. Z. i. pi. 87, f. 2, (young.)

B. v. D. 12-14. P. 16-19. A. 11-12 C. 8-11.

Length of head J, of pectoral |, of caudal }, of base of dorsal ^, of base of anal ^ of
total length. Height of head ^, of body \, of dorsal J, of anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Close to profile, diameter ^0 of length of head, If diameters from end of snout, and
1^ diameters apart.

The body tapers off considerably towards the tail, and the width of the orbits is equal to two-
thirds of its height when uninflated.

Nasal papilla oval, perforated on either side by an opening of the nostril ; it is situated
midway between the orbit and muzzle.

Fins — Dorsal situated rather behind the posterior third of the body, its first ray unbranched :
it is elevated in front and pointed : anal of the same shape, its first ray undivided : pectoral
rounded: caudal with its posterior margin rather crescent-shaped, its external longest ray
unbranched.

Spines — Short and crowded over the chest, and summit of the head.

Lateral line — Commences in the form of an irregular circle, surrounding the eye, and when.

25G THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

it arrives opposite the centre of the posterior margin of the orbit, it gives off a branch to join the
opposite portion, it then describes a gentle curve towards the end of the dorsal and anal fins from
whence it proceeds direct to the centre of the caudal : a second lateral line goes from the centre
of the mouth along the abdominal surface to beyond the anal fin, it runs parallel with the

superior one.

Colours — Upper surface of head and back greenish olive ; sides and abdomen of a satin-white,
having a line of gold colour passing from the orbit to the centre of the caudal. Fins yellow :
posterior margin of caudal black. Iris golden, dark towards the orbit.

Grows to a foot in length.

Habitat— Seas and estuaries of Red Sea, India, Malaysia and Japan.

Genus CRAYRACION, Klein.

Cieeiiostomus, Swain.

Aeotiieon, Mull.

Epipedorhynchus, dichotomycterus, et dilobomycterus, Bib.

Brachycephalus et apsicephalus, pt. Holl.

Differs from the Genus Tetraodon, by the nostrils on each side being provided with a broad, single, or
double, imperforate tentacle, in some bifid only at its extremity. Body entirely or only superiorly and
inferiorly spined. Dorsal and anal fin short.

Crayeacion fluviatilis.

Teteodon fluviatilis, Ham. Buck. pp. 6, 361, pi. 30, f. 1.

? Teteaodon simulans, Cantor, Catal. p. 374.

Ceayeacion fluviatilis, Bleeker, Atl. Ich. v. p. t. 205, f. 4.

B. v. D. 12-14. P. 21. A. 10-12. C. 8-12.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of caudal \, of base of dorsal fa, of base of anal ^ of total
length. Height of head \, of body uninflated \, of dorsal \, of anal \ of total length.

Eyes — Protrude considerably : diameter nearly \ of length of head, 1£ diameters from end
of snout, 3 diameters apart anteriorly, but nearly 4 posteriorly.

Abdominal profile, when the fish is not inflated, is scarcely more convex than that of the back.
The width of the head at its widest part equals two-thirds of the height of the uninflated body,
but the thickness decreases as the tail is approached.

Upper jaw slightly the longest, lips fleshy : two tentacles arise one from the base of each
nostril, which are situated rather in front of the orbits. The anterior is single, the posterior double.

Teeth — Generic.

Fins — Pectoral with a broad rounded base : dorsal arises over the anal in the posterior fourth
of the body, its first three rays are unbranched : anal has its first two rays unbranched : caudal rays
coarse, and mostly crooked.

Spines extend from below the posterior third of the orbit round the chest, and superiorly as
far as to above the posterior third of the orbit, whilst they are continued along the back to nearly

or.7
THE FISHES OF MALABAR. -""

the base of the dorsal fin, and along the sides to midway between the end of the pectoral
and the base of the dorsal : the spinous portion ends in a curved line from nearly the anterior
margin of the dorsal to the anterior margin of the anal fin. The spines are coarse, those most
posterior being more widely separated than the anterior ones : their divided roots are very
apparent.

Lateral line — None visible.

Colours-Greenish-grey above, white beneath; two undulating narrow bright green or yellow
bands pass from one eye to the other, and several more irregularly across the back ; the sides are
covered with round, oval, or irregularly-shaped blotches, surrounded by yellow or green bands,
which become whiter and broader towards the abdomen. Fins yellowish. Eyes hazel or yellow.
The coloration varies exceedingly, according to the pieces of water which the fish inhabits.

Grows to six inches in length.

Habitat— Seas, estuaries, and salt marshes of India and Malaysia.

Ceayracion TESTUDINEUS.
Tetraodon testudineus, Linn. Syst. 1444 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 376 ; Bleeker, Atl. Icli.

v. p. pi. 212, f. 3.
Paattiia, Mai.

B. v. D. 10. P. 17. A. 10. C. 10.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal fa of base of anal fa of caudal \ of the
total length. Height of dorsal \, of anal nearly \ of the total length.

Eyes— Border on the profile, and are rather nearer to the snout than to the gill openings.
Diameter \ of length of head, 3 diameters apart, 2 diameters from end of snout.

Nostrils are situated slightly behind and above the anterior margin of the orbit : the apertures
are small, and the tentacle bifurcated.

Fins-Dorsal commences in the posterior fourth of the body, its first ray is unbranched. Anal
arises below the termination of the dorsal. The pectoral is broad: the dorsal, caudal and anal

are rounded.

Spines— From the interorbital space to the caudal fin the fish is entirely covered by spines,
which are much longer, finer, and more crowded on the abdominal surface than on the back and
sides. A fine line of spines also passes from the anterior superior angle of the eye, around the
nostrils, to the mesial line of the head where it joins a similar fine from the opposite side, the two
conjoined are continued backwards to the centre of the interorbital space. There are no spines
on either jaws or at the axils of the pectorals.

Colours-Upper surface of body deep grey, under surface dirty white, with nine longitudinal
stripes of black, which pass in a concave direction under the eye, round the mouth, and round
the pectoral fin. The back is marked with darker blotches anteriorly, and is chequered with black
in its posterior half and in that of the body : these blotches consist of black bands, surrounding
circular patches of white or light grey. Caudal fin chequered with black, which is the predo-
minant colour, but it also has round marks as on the body. Dorsal, anal, and pectoral dirty
white. Eye dirty yellow. .

In a specimen not two inches in length the spines exist all over the body, as m the adult, but
the horizontal lines along the abdomen are absent, and the back and sides alone show the colora-
tion of the mature.

Not common in Malabar. Captured to seven and a half inches in length. The Natives

2 L

258 THE FISHES OF MALABAE.

occasionally eat them, but as they frequently cause indigestion and irritation of the intestines,
they are generally avoided as food. The Native doctors prescribe them in cases of phthisis.
Habitat — Seas and estuaries of Malabar, Malaysia, China, and Japan.

Ceayeacion Cochinensis. Plate XX. f. 2.
Crayeacion Cochinensis, Day, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1865, p. 314.

B.v. D. 9. P. 18. A. 10. 0.11.

Length of head nearly \, of pectoral -fa, of base of dorsal \, of base of anal ^, of caudal A of
total length.

Eyes — Diameter^ of length of head, 2 \ diameters apart posteriorly, 1| anteriorly, 2 diameters
from end of snout.

Fins — Dorsal arises at the commencement of the posterior third of the back, and at a distance
equal to its base in front of the anterior margin of the anal. All the fins are rounded. The first
ray of the anal, and three first of the dorsal are undivided.

Spines — Single, sharp, closely set, commencing from the interorbital space, and behind the
upper and lower jaws, and continued on the back as far as the anus. Anteriorly from the inter-
orbital space they are continued in rather a fine band, surrounding the nostrils, posteriorly in a
crescentic form. There are none on the space around the pectoral fin anteriorly. Nostrils pro-
vided with a broad, imperforate, bifurcated tentacle, and placed above and slightly behind the
anterior margin of the orbit.

Colours — Olive green on the back, becoming lighter on the sides, and dirty white on the
abdomen. A large spot of pure white — longer than the diameter of the eye — exists over each orbit.
Dorsal, caudal, and anal fins of a yellowish green, stained with a darker shade at their extremities.
Pectoral brownish olive.

Pare. A single specimen was captured in June, 1863, five and a half inches in length.
Habitat — Cochin on the Malabar coast.

Genus LEIODON, Swains.
Leiosomus, Swains.
Chelonodon, Mull.
Aphanacanthus, teteodon, et monoteetus, Bib.

Differs from the Tetraodon and Crayracion, in that the nostrils are situated on either side in a wide
imperforate pit having raised edges. Body above and below spinate or smooth. Lateral fine simple.
Dorsal and anal fins short.

Leiodon vieidipunctatus. Plate XX. f. 2.
Leiodon vieidipunctatus, Day, Proc. Zool. Society, 1865, p. 315.

B.v. D. 12. P. 18. A. 11. CIO.

Length of head \, of pectoral \, of base of dorsal ^ of base of anal Jj, of caudal A, of the
total length.

■

PLATK XX

'■

/•></ J ,

* > , -

J'ut 2 .

F. />.<_•., d* l,et

I C H A V K A C I <> N C <> CHIN I'

\SIS 2. LEIODOK VlltllUI'lNI'TATrS

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 250

Eyes — Bather nearer the gill openings than the muzzle. Diameter I of length of head, 2 dia-
meters apart in front, but further behind.

Nostrils broad and open, situated above, and slightly behind the anterior margin of the orbit.

Fins — Dorsal arises at commencement of the last fourth of the body, and its posterior margin
is above the first ray of the anal. All tho fins are rounded. First three dorsal and two anal rays
are undivided.

Spines — Short, some distance asunder, and commencing from the occiput, pass along the back
two-thirds of the distance towards the commencement of the dorsal fin : inferiorly the spines begin
from below the orbit, surround the lower and posterior margins of the pectoral fin, and are con-
tinued as far as the anus ; at first they are directed backwards, but from the posterior margin of
the pectoral they are turned downwards.

Lateral line — Curves upwards from above the pectoral fin, and is continued to the centre of
the caudal. It is very indistinct.

Colours — Back light green ; abdomen silvery white. Back and sides covered with emerald -
green spots, a bar of the same colour passes across the vertex from one eye to the other, and also
goes backwards in the mesial line towards a second irregular band of the same colour, which
passes across the back more posteriorly. Eye brown, with a golden rim surrounding the iris.
Caudal and anal tipped with black. Dorsal yellowish. Four black spots under the throat.

Bare, grows to six inches in length.

Habitat — Cochin on the Malabar Coast.

Family BALISTISIDjE.
Genus ALUTARIUS, Cuvier.

Body elongated, compressed, and covered with fine, closely set granules, scarcely visible to the naked
eye. Pelvis entirely hidden beneath the skin. Two dorsal fins, the anterior having its first spine elon-
gated, moderately stout, and capahle of being laid flat in a groove posterior to it.

ALUTAEIUS LjEVIS.

Balistes l^evis, Bloch, t. 414.
Alutaeius l^evis, Cantor, Catal. p. 355.
Mullah pueroah, Mai.

B. vi. D. 2 | 46. P. 15. A. 49. C. 12.

Length of head f , of pectoral T'T, of caudal f , of base of first dorsal about fa, of base of
second dorsal \, of base of anal \ of total length. Height of head \, of body rather above \, of
first dorsal \, of second dorsal about ^v, of anal about ^ of total length.

Eyes — Oval, situated close to the profile, behind the posterior extremity of the opercles, and
under the first dorsal fin : horizontal diameter \, vertical diameter \ of length of head, 3^- dia-
meters from end of snout, nearly 1 diameter apart.

Body elongated and compressed, terminating in a point at the snout, but broad at the base of
caudal fin. Profile rises to the first dorsal, from whence it sinks slightly to the caudal.

2 GO THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Mouth anterior, lower jaw longest, cut obliquely, its posterior end being the highest, and its
extremity forming more than half a circle. Lips thin. Nostrils situated in front of the eyes,
approximating, rather tubular, the anterior largest and furnished with a valve. Gill openings
small, linear, oblique, then- upper ends opposite the posterior margin of the orbit, and their length
one-third more than that of the orbit.

Teeth — About eight pointed and cutting, the largest being in the centre.

Fins — First dorsal arises over the centre of the orbit and base of pectoral : the second dorsal
and anal opposite one another, or the last rather the most anterior, they are situated in the poste-
rior half of the body. First dorsal consists of one long and thin spine, which can be laid flat, and
a smaller one posterior to it, a groove equal to half its length exists along the back behind its base.
Second dorsal consists of unbranched rays of about equal height. Pectoral pointed. Anal the same
as the second dorsal. Caudal large, rounded with coarse branched rays. The Unless portion of the
tail between the end of the vertical fins and the base of the caudal, equals one and a half transverse
diameters of the orbit.

Skin — Body covered with minute closely placed granules — in some places becoming hair-like
and rough : the dorsal spine also rough.

Colours — Yellowish, with small spots all over the head and body. Some fine blue lines round
the eyes and encircling the mouth. Large blue spots and blotches in four or five irregular rows
over the whole surface of the body. Dorsal and anal pinkish : caudal tipped with the same
colour, otherwise of a dark brown very indistinctly barred.

Grows to about ten inches in length.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar, Malaysia, China, Canary Islands and Caribbean Sea.

Genus TRI ACANTHUS, Cuvier.

Body moderately compressed : skin covered with minute closely set scales. Two dorsal fins, the
anterior dorsal having its first spine elongated and stout : and a strong spine representing the ventral fin,
which is moveable and articulated to a pelvis which is not prominent. All these spines can be laid
flat in grooves posterior to them. Caudal fin moderately long.

Teiacanthus BIACULEATUS.

Balistes biaculeatus, Block, t. 148, f. 2 ; Bennett, pi. 15.
Boweee or Abatoo, Russell, pi. 21.
Teiacanthus biaculeatus, Cantor, Catal. p. 360.

B. vi. D. 5 | 24-25. P. 14. V. 1. A. 19-20. C. 14.

Length of head \, of pectoral y^, of caudal \, of base of first dorsal tXq, of base of second
dorsal f, of base of anal \ of the total length. Height of head \, of body \, of first dorsal \,
of second dorsal -j1^, of ventral 7, of anal ^ of the total length.

Eyes — Oval and close to profile : horizontal diameter ^, vertical diameter A of length of head,
2 horizontal diameters from end of snout, 1 diameter apart.

Body elliptical, decreasing in size towards the caudal fin : a considerable rise from snout to
first dorsal, and rather a protrusion opposite the orbits, its highest portion being between the first
dorsal and ventral fins.

THE PISHES OF MALABAK.

201

Head broad, pyramidal, becoming narrower towards an elongated muzzle, lips fleshy and
surrounding a small mouth : a furrow extends from tho orbit to tho snout. Prcopcrcle oblique.
Intcrmaxillaries raised, prominent, and slightly triangular. Summit of head flattened, and having
a central longitudinal keel passing upwards towards the first dorsal spine. Apertures of nostrils
approximating, oval, and close to the anterior superior anglo of the orbit, the posterior tho largest
and the most superior.

Teeth — An external series of ten trenchant teeth, the central ones the longest j in the upper
jaw there are four tubercular teeth posterior to the anterior ten, the central pair of which are
the longest. Tongue fleshy, small, without teeth.

Fins — Dorsal, pectoral, and ventral arise on a line, of which the first dorsal is slightly in
advance ; the second dorsal arises the width of the base of the first dorsal posterior to it ; the
anal arises under the centre of the second dorsal. The first dorsal consists of one strong, long,
triangular, roughened and moveable spine, which can be laid flat on the back ; the spines behind
it are short, the first one-fourth the length of the spine, from whence they rapidly decrease. The
second dorsal low, its upper margin parallel with the back, from its fourth to its sixth rays rather
the highest : the space between the end of the fin and the commencement of the caudal equals the
length of the base of the anal. Anal highest anteriorly, its lower margin concave, its third ray
slightly the longest. Ventral formed of one strong spine, slightly shorter than that of the first
dorsal, but of the same description ; it can be raised at an acute angle to the body, or be received
into a groove along the side of the abdomen. Caudal with deep lobes, each of which are rounded.
Pectoral short, and rounded.

Scales — Small minute granules, which are covered with a mucous secretion : they are largest
on the back, chest, and over the spine of the first dorsal and each of the ventral fins : on these
last they gradually decrease in size towards their summits.

Lateral line — Forms a curve to opposite the centre of the second dorsal, from whence it pro-
ceeds direct to the centre of the caudal : at its origin another line arises which in front of the
dorsal spine joins one from the opposite side. Another passes along the supraorbital margin to
the front of the nostrils and along the muzzle ; and a third along the inferior margin of the orbit,
passing obliquely over which, and behind the mouth, it ascends to join a similar branch from the
opposite side : a fourth branch passes a little in front of the gill openings, beneath which it forms
a short arch backwards, and then proceeds obliquely downwards to the centre of the ventral groove.

Colours — Back greyish shot with golden : abdomen of burnished silver. The lower half of
the dorsal spine black, as is also the membrane between it and the second and third spines, the
outer edges of which are white. Fins greyish, dashed with yellow. Caudal tipped with yellow.
Pectoral yellow. Eyes golden.

Gill openings small, linear, slightly oblique, and situated just in front of the pectoral fins, their
length hardly exceeding that of the orbits.

Body rough to the touch, owing to which circumstance it has been named the " File fish."

Grows to nine inches and a half in length. Is not eaten.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and extending to Australia.

262 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Order.— L OPHOBEANCHII.

Fam. SYNGNATHID.E, Kaup.
Group HIPPOCAMPINiE, Bon.

Genus HIPPOCAMPUS, Cuvier.

Body heptagonal, laterally compressed : snout moderately elongated : mouth anterior : breast deve-
loped, it and the abdomen with acute ridges, the quadrangular tail exceeding the length of the body. The
lateral line connected with the inferior caudal ridge : the superior caudal ridge reaching as far as the
middle of the dorsal fin. The posterior portion of the head more or less elevated, with au occipital bone
bearing a coronet, which is surmounted by spines and knobs : orbit also spiny. Breast-ring with two or
three spines ; body having from ten to thirteen rings, all of which are spiny : the acuteness of the spines
and knobs decreases with age. Tail prehensile at the extremity, and destitute of any fin. Dorsal fin usually
rests upon three rings, but it may on any number up to six, of which two only form part of the tail ; the
anal fin often hidden in the pouch of the males, which is formed of thick skin, and only opens at its com-
mencement. Gill openings small, very narrow, circular, and placed high up at the extremity of the opercle,
close to the occiput.

Hippocampus comes.

Hippocampus comes, Cantor, Catal. p. 389, pi. xi. f. 2 {young) ; Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus.

Lophobranchiate fish, p. 10.
Coodra Meen, Mai.

D. 16. P. 17. A. 4. Kings of body 11, of tail 33.

Length of head ^ of total length.

Eyes — Diameter equals T2T of total length of head, the anterior margins of the orbits situated
midway between the end of the snout and the posterior extremity of the opercle.

Mouth anterior, small, triangular : the upper surface of the snout with a raised mesial longi-
tudinal ridge. Opercle with raised ridges passing downwards and outwards.

There are great diversities in the modes in which the spines are placed in this species, and
amongst several from Cochin none are exactly similar. In the immature the nasal spine is present,
but absent in the mature. There are two sharp spines on the posterior superior angle of the orbit
directed backwards and outwards : a smaller one rather above the centre of the posterior margin
of the orbit : a longer and stronger one just above the superior margin of the opercle, and another
on a line between it and the first spine. There is a sharp spine on the lower profile beneath the
centre of the orbit, and a blunt one between it and the orbit : also a sharp spine on either edge of
the throat corresponding to the anterior extremities of two antero-lateral ridges ; whilst another
exists on a line close to the inferior edge of the base of the pectoral fin. The coronet is mode-
rately elevated, with from four to six blunt points surrounding its superior margin, the ridge
descending from it in the mesial line is also spined.

Body heptagonal, one surface being posterior, two anterior, and two on either side : most of the
angles formed by the meetings of the sides are spined. On the first five rings of the anterior ridge
are no spines : then they become moderately developed, and above the ring on which the anal is

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 2G3

situated they aro sharp. On the anterolateral ridges tliero aro no spines for the first two or three
rings, then they become well developed. The lateral ridges aro moderately spined in their whole
extent, except on the ring opposite to the last antero-lateral one. The postero-lateral ridges have
rather prominent spines at their upper rings, but they are not constant, neither are the number of
body rings, wliich vary one or two, more or less. The caudal is quadrangular, angles rather
thickened, scarcely spined. The anterior ridgo of the body and the two antero-lateral ones coalesce
at the anal fin. The postero-lateral ones commence separately from the occipital crest : passing out-
wards they form with the first ring an acute angle, and are continued downwards on either side of
the back for eight more rings, when they bulge outwards for three more, and on this portion the
dorsal fin is placed. All the sides and back of the body are slightly concave.

Colours — Brownish, opercles slightly bluish, fins transparent. Iris white, with some brown
lines radiating from the pupil.

Not very common in Malabar, except in rocky situations. Grows to eleven or twelve inches
in length ; is commonly known as the " Horse fish."

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and Australia.

Sub-Fam. SYNGNATHIDiE, Kawp.

Group SYNGNATHINA, Eaup.

Genus ICHTHYOCAMPUS, Kaup.

Body lieptagoual : dorsal surface slightly or very concave, caudal nearly as wide as body. Head short,
with a shorter compressed sharp-ridged snout. Opercle round, swollen, higher than wide. Fins four or
five. The supero-lateral ridge of the back is continuous with that of the caudal region. The anus is
situated under the commencement of the dorsal fin. Males furnished with a caudal egg pouch, which is
open throughout.

ICHTHYOCAMPUS PoNTICEEIANUS.

Typhlus Ponticerianus, Bibi-on, Mus. Paris.
Ichthyocampus Ponticerianus, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 31.

D. 24. P. 16-17. A. 2. C. 8. Body rings, 15. Caudal rings, 38 to 40.

Length of head including snout \ of the total length : from the anterior margin of the orbit
to the end of the snout is very slightly longer than the distance from the anterior margin of the
orbit to the posterior extremity of the opercle. The length of the body is scarcely \ of the total
length, and not half so long as the caudal portion.

Eyes — Round, diameter ^ of length of head, nearly 3 diameters from end of snout, ?, of a
diameter apart anteriorly, but more so posteriorly.

The supero-lateral ridge of the back is continuous with that of the caudal portion : the infero-
lateral ridge of the body is continuous with the same on the caudal : the inferior margin of the
body has a very moderately jn'ominent ridge. The lateral line curves downwards in the last part
of its course, and then passes horizontally along the first caudal ring.

Body moderately elongated, heptagonal, back nearly flat, the caudal portion being about two
and a third times longer than the body, which is slightly higher than it is wide.

264 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Snout very slightly elevated in its anterior third : interorbital space widest posteriorly, with
a sharp low mesial longitudinal ridge passing from between the centre of the orbits along the first
fourth of the snout : the orbit with a blunt elevation in the middle of its anterior margin. A very
prominent sharp horizontal crest across the opercle.

Fins — The dorsal is situated on the third to the eighth caudal rings (from the second to the
seventh, according to Dr. Kaup) : pectoral short, but with a broad base : anal rays minute : caudal
rounded at its extremity, and its length equals twice that of the orbit.

Rings — With smooth edges, the divisions between each being distinct.

Colours — Deep brown, with one — occasionally two — milk-white spots in the centre of each
body ring along the infero-lateral ridge : the lower surface of the snout dotted with black spots.
Dorsal fin yellow, pectoral and caudal leaden colour. Eye greenish blue.

This resembles the Syngnathus argyrostictus, but is easily recognised from it, because its
supero-lateral ridges are continuous, its chest is not so acutely keeled, and it has a row of milk-
white spots along the infero-lateral ridge of the body.

Common in Malabar, where it grows to about five inches in length.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India and Malaysia.

Genus SYNGNATHUS, Linn.

Body heptagonal, dorsal surface flat or slightly concave, never much compressed or arched. No spines
on snout. Fins four or five ; the dorsal stands on a level with the back, its base not being elevated. The
number of body rings never amounts to twenty-seven. The supero-lateral ridge of the back is never con-
tinuous with that of the tail. Males furnished with a caudal egg pouch, which is open throughout.

Syngnathus argyrostictus.

Syngnathus argyrostictus, Kuhl & v. Eass. ; Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 33.
Syngnathus spicifer, Biippell, Neue Wirbelth.

D. 25-27. P. 16. A. 2. C. 8. Body rings, 15 to 16. Caudal rings, 40 to 41.

Length of head, including snout, ^T of the total length : from the anterior margin of the orbit
to the end of the snout, equals the distance from the anterior margin of the orbit to the posterior
extremity of the opercle. The length of the body is ^ of the total length, and not \ as long as
the caudal portion.

Eyes — Bather oval, nearly \ of the total length of the head, nearly 2 diameters from end of
snout, f of a diameter apart.

The supero-lateral ridge of the back extends to the fourth caudal ring but is not continuous
with the supero-lateral ridge of the caudal which ends opposite to the anterior extremity of the
root of the dorsal fin. The infero-lateral ridge of the body is continuous with that of the tail.
The inferior margin of the body has a very acute and prominent ridge. The lateral line arches
downwards in the last two rings of its course and ends at the inferior margin of the first caudal
ring.

Body moderately elongated, heptagonal, the caudal portion above twice the length of that of
the body : the height of which is equal to about twice its width.

Snout elevated in its anterior half, interorbital space widest posteriorly, having a lateral ridge

-THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 265

on either side, whilst opposite the anterior margin of the orbit it ends in a sharp mesial longitu-
dinal crest which is continued half way along the snout. Operclo with a prominent horizontal
raised ridge along its centre.

Fins— The dorsal is situated on the first five rings of the caudal: the anal rays are minute

and sometimes imperceptible.

Rings— With smooth edges, the division between each being but little apparent.

Colours— Generally light brownish, with a dark brown streak extending from the orbit to the
angle of the mouth, and a second from the posterior angle of the eye over the opercle : a few black
spots on the under surface of lower jaw ; body inferiorly with fine brown bars. Dorsal fin barred
with brown spots. Caudal blackish, with a light brown base.

By no means rare in Malabar, and ascends rivers high above the influence of the tides. Gn >ws
to about five inches in length.

Habitat— Eed Sea, Seas, estuaries, and freshwaters of India, and Malaysia.

Group NEROPHIN.E, Kaup.
Genus MICROPHIS, Kaup.

Body heptagonal, composed of rough rings, and continued of equal thickness up to the commence-
ment of the tail. The eggs uncovered by membrane are distributed in rows along the breast and abdomen
of the males. Fins five.

Miceophis Bleekeri.

D. 41-45. P. 21. A. 2. C. 9. Body rings 21. Caudal rings 22.

Length of head a little above l of snout to anterior margin of the orbit rather above 1 of the

total length. Length of body from base of pectoral to the
anal ring more than half the length of the snout longer than
the caudal portion. Height of body equal to its depth.
Eyes— Slightly oval, diameter ^ of the total length of the head, J a diameter apart ante-
riorly, rather more posteriorly.

The lateral ridge of the back is continuous with the supero-lateral caudal ridge which it joins
a little behind the posterior extremity of the dorsal fin : but the supero-lateral caudal ridge anterior
to this junction bulges outwards and proceeds forwards in a curved fine as far as the anterior
margin of the anal ring midway between the lateral ridge of the back and the lateral line. The
lateral line posteriorly arches downwards and reaches the infero-lateral caudal ridge at the base of
the ring behind the anal one. The infero-lateral ridge of the body is expanded into a sharp
flattened ridge which ceases at the posterior margin of the ring behind the anal one.

Body moderately elongated, heptagonal, and longer than the tail, the back a little arched,
the thickness as far as the commencement of the caudal about the same, the height the same as
the width, the lower surface with expanded sides (in the males) to protect the ova : flattened in

the female.

Snout compressed, curving slightly upwards at its extremity with two moderately raised
lateral ridges along either side above, and the same below. No spines. Upper surface of orbit

2 M

266 THE FISHES OF MALABAR. •

close to the profile. Opercle with a well marked horizontal ridge along its centre, having five
more rido-es proceeding below it to the posterior and inferior margins : rather a prominent but
irregular ridge above the opercle (smallest in the female) which ends opposite its posterior superior
angle in a wide smooth furrow directed upwards and slightly backwards. A lanceolate keeled
ridge, rounded anteriorly, and directed forward exists in the occipital region.

Fms — The dorsal fin is placed upon nine rings the first of which is the anal ring. The
pectoral wide and short. The caudal lanceolate and equal in length to half that of the snout.

Rino-s — Each very distinctly separated from the next, and ending in a moderately sharp spine
posteriorly, causing the surface to feel quite rough to the finger passed from behind forward. In
the female there are sometimes two spines to the end of each ring, and they are much sharper and
longer than in the male.

Colours — A bright red line at the gills, and along the lateral line, otherwise of a light brown
with a dark line proceeding forward from the eye, and the snout barred with brown. Fins light
brown.

Not rare in the river at Cochin. This specimen, a male, was nearly eight inches in length.

I conclude this is the species referred to by Dr. Kaup, as having been published by Dr.
Bleeker as the Syngnathus cunculus, but as he gives no reference I have been unable to ascertain
the fact.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of Malabar and (?) Malaysia.

* MlCROPHIS CUNCULUS.

Syngnathus cunculus, Ham. Bitch, pp. 12, 362.
Microphis cunculus, Kaup, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 64.

D. about 50. P. 16. A. 2. C. 8-9. Body rings 17-18. Caudal rings 25-27.

Length of head jS, of body f , of tail ^, of caudal fin TVj of the total length.

"A prominent line divides the silvery gill-cover into two similar parts. The lateral line
unites in an arch with the under border of the first caudal ring. Ten rings : three of them
belonging to the body sustain the dorsal fin, before which there are 14 rings, and up to the anal
ring there are 17." — Kaup.

Colours — " Green above, and white beneath, with a gloss of silver on the sides. On the back
several dusky lines intersect each other and form a net-work. On each side is a longitudinal
stripe formed of numerous dots. The eyes are silvery." — Hamilton Buchanan.

Habitat— Seas and estuaries of India.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 267

Sub-Class.— SELACHII.
Order.— P LAGIOSTOMI.

Sub-Order.— SQUALL
Pam. SCYLLLE.
Genus CHILOSCYLLIUM, Mull. & Henle.

Snout blunt : nostrils cleft up to the mouth : nasal valves separated, each with a filament : a hem-like
valve on the outer side of each nostril which is continued to the upper corner of the mouth : under lip
broad, skinny, and separated from the throat by a transverse furrow. Mouth slightly arched. Spiracles
behind and beneath the orbits, with a projecting tubercle at their posterior margins : fourth and fifth gill
openings approximating. Teeth pointed with one or two or even four smaller points on either side. The
anterior dorsal fin behind the ventral, but both dorsals before the anal : pectorals and ventrals rounded, as
are also the anal and caudal : the anal without an anterior angle and arched downwards, terminating
posteriorly in a point : lower margin of caudal convex.

Chiloscyllium plagiosum.

Scyllium plagiosum, Bennett, Life of Raffles, p. 693, {young.)

Bokee Soeeah, Russell, pi. xvi. [young.)

Ea Soerah, Russell, pi. x. [adult)

Scyllium oknatum, Gray, 111. I. Z. i. pi. 98, f. 2, (young.)

Chiloscyllium plagiosum, Cantor, Catal. p. 392 ; Dumeril, Suite cle Buffon, Ickthy-

ologie generale, i. p. 328.
Ettee, Mai.

Snout rounded, mouth slightly arched, under lip skinny, broad, and divided from the throat
by a transverse fissure. Nostrils with separated nasal valves, each having a projecting tubercle at
their posterior margins.

Teeth — Pointed, with one or two toothlets on either side.

Fins — All more or less rounded. The pectoral commences under the second spiracle, and its
posterior margin is midway between the orbit and the ventral fins, its base equals the distance
between the first and last spiracle. The base of the ventral is about as broad as that of the
pectoral, and the length of its anterior margin is ecpial to that of its base, but its posterior margin
is half shorter. The anterior dorsal commences opposite the last third of the ventral, its front
edge is rather longer than its base, and twice as long as its posterior border. The second dorsal-
commences midway between the last spiracle aud the termination of the caudal, its anterior border
is longer than its base. The anal is as far from the anterior margin of the second dorsal as that
fin is from the posterior margin of the first dorsal, it is low, rounded behind, and scarcely so high
as the body above it. Caudal commences superiorly opposite the first third of the anal, it is very
low, its posterior extremity is inferiorly rounded, and it extends as far as the anal fin.

Scales and ridges — The former are minute in the young, but in the adult they are moderately
wide, lanceolate, and keeled : along the centre of the back is a raised ridge extending from the

2 m 2

2G8 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

head as far as the second dorsal fin, along it the scales are larger than those on the sides :
laterally a second ridge is apparent in the upper third of the body, opposite the anterior dorsal it
passes as far backwards as the posterior extremity of the anal where it bends down close to the
abdominal line : a third badly marked ridge extends from the pectoral to the ventral and along the
edge of the abdomen as far as the anal fin, separating the side from the abdomen.

Colours — In the immature. Ground colour buff with a tinge of red and there are about ten
vertical wide dark bands, from opposite the pectoral to the end of the caudal fin : they are much
wider than the ground colour : one passes across the back of the head, another over the snout. The
pectoral and ventral are black, with a white edge : the central portions of the two dorsals are also
black and their edges whitish. Sometimes between the bands there are intermediate spots ; or
the ground colour may be the darkest : or all the fins may be adorned with black rings each having
a black central spot.

As the age of the fish increases the darker markings become obsolete.

In the adult (my specimen is twenty-one inches in length) the upper surface of the back is of
an uniform grey, the abdominal surface whitish, stained with a dull red. Fins greyish, the vertical
ones having a reddish tinge, except the edges of the dorsals which are almost white.

Common in Malabar, especially the immature. The flesh is considered nourishing, the livers
good for medicinal oils, and the skins for polishing wood.

Habitat — Seas of India, Malaysia, China, and Japan.

Fam. CARCHARI^!, Milll. and Henle.

Genus SCOLIODON, Mull, and Henle.

Snout flattened, more or less rounded, and moderately long. Nostrils central between the mouth and
the point of the snout, or nearer the mouth at the lateral margins of the snout. Labial cartilage minute
or absent. Spiracles none. Nictitating membrane distinct. Teeth of upper and lower jaws similar, except
an extra trenchant central one in the former, with its point directed outwards, but it is not denticulated ;
the outer part of the base forms a blunt ledge, in which an indentation may be absent or present. Pos-
terior dorsal fin either immediately opposite the aual or above its posterior extremity. A distinct caudal
groove above and below. Scales small, and three-keeled. Oviduct of embryo flocculent.

SCOLIODON ACUTUS.

Caech arias acutus, Riippell, Cliond. v. t. 18, f. 4.

Scoliodon acutus, Cantor, Catal. p. 399 ; Grray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 41 ; Dumeril,
Icli. g6n. i. p. 345.

Snout flattened, pointed : the distance from the nostril to the extremity of the snout, equals
two-thirds of that which separates the angles of the mouth, the breadth and width of which are
equal. Labial cartilage, if present, very minute. The fifth gill opening is situated above the
commencement of the pectoral fin. There is a distinct caudal groove both above and below.

Teeth — Those in both jaws similar, but an odd central one exists in the upper, which is tren-
chant, smooth, and directed outwards, while in the immature it is considerably smaller than the
others.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 269

Fins — The anterior dorsal is situated nearer to the pectoral than to the ventral fin, its posterior
border is ernarginato, and its upper and posterior angle forms an elongated point : the posterior
dorsal commences opposite tho last half of tho base of the anal, which is two-thirds as long as
that of the second dorsal. Tho interval between the caudal and anal is double the length of the
base of the latter. Caudal low, its superior lobe cut very obliquely at its free extremity, which
is slender.

Scales — Minute, rounded, and with five, four, or three keels.

Colours — Grey above ; white beneath.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, China.

Genus PRIONODON, Mull and Henle.

Peionace, Cantor.

Differs from the Genus Scoliodon by the teeth of either the upper or of both jaws being finely denticulated
on either side, oblique or straight, trigonal, or with a broad base and small apex. There is almost inva-
riably an extra central tooth in the upper jaw. Oviduct of embryo smooth.

Prionodon MELANOPTERUS.

Carcharias melanopterus, Quoy & Gaim. Freycin. Voy. p. 194, pi. 43, f. 1, 2.
Prionace melanopterus, Cantor, Catal. p. 400.

Prionodon melanopterus, Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 46 ; Dumeril, Icli. gen. i.
p. 365.

Snout short, rounded, in some almost pointed. The space between the eyes longer than that
anterior to them. Nostrils nearer the centre of the margin of the snout than they are to the anterior
border of the mouth. The fourth and fifth branchial apertures situated above the pectoral fin.

Teeth — Trigonal, and situated either obliquely or straight ; those in the lower jaw the smallest
and narrowest : the teeth in both jaws denticulated on either side in the adidt, but in the immature
only those of the upper jaw. There is generally an odd central tooth in the upper jaw.

Fins — Anterior dorsal situated nearer to the pectoral than to the veDtral, it commences
slightly behind the termination of the pectoral, and is much higher than the posterior dorsal, which
is slightly in advance of the anal, and extends to opposite its posterior third. Pectoral eniargi-
nate. Ventral begins in the last third of the distance between the commencement of the
pectoral and of the anal. Caudal nearly one-fourth of the total length, the angle of its lower lobe
slightly rounded.

The male appendages are shorter than the internal margin of the ventral fin.

Scales — Minute, with from three to seven keels.

Colours — Bluish grey, fading to whitish beneath. Iris grey, stained darker at its superior
portion.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, the Moluccas, New Guinea, China, Australia, and
the Cape of Good Hope.

270 TIIE FISHES OF MALABAR.

* Prionodon LAMIA.

Carcharias lamia, Mull. & Eenle, Plag. 37, pi. 12.
Carcharinus lamia, Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 44.
Prionodon lamia, Dumeril, Ich. gen. i. p. 356.

Snout snort and rounded : nostrils situated at about equal distance from its terminal extremity
and the anterior border of the mouth.

Teeth In upper jaw triangular, with their internal border a little convex, and the external

slightly concave : they and the inferior are denticulated, the latter are straight, narrower, and in the
form of a triangle, supported upon an enlarged base : a small central tooth in each jaw denticulated
above and smooth below.

Fins — Anterior dorsal commences immediately behind the base of the pectoral ; it is a little
higher than its base is long : upper margin convex, superior angle rounded, and its posterior border
almost straight, with a pointed angle. Posterior dorsal much smaller than the anterior. Pectorals
about half as wide as long. The upper caudal lobe equal to about one-fourth of the total length,
and double that of the inferior lobe.

Colours — Grey above, whitish beneath, or with the tips of the fins with dark spots : or a
white spot at the extremity of the pectoral, the upper angle of the first dorsal, and the end of the
two lobes of the caudal, with a black spot on the superior angle of the posterior dorsal and of

the anal.

This species was brought from Malabar by Dussumier.

Habitat— Seas of India, China, Australia, Cape of Good Hope, and the Mediterranean.

Fam. CESTRACIONTES, Dumeril.
Genus CESTEACION, Klein.

Zyg.ena, Cuvier.
Cestrorhinus, Blainv.

The anterior part of the head is broad, flattened, and laterally elongated, with the eyes situated at its
lateral extremities, and the nostrils on its fore-border. The nasal valve is a small triangular lobe situated
at the anterior margin of the nostril. Labial cartilages small or absent. Teeth in both jaws similar,
resembling outwardly pointing flattened pyramids, and are either trenchant, denticulated, or with a ledge
at the outer side of the base : there is a central tooth in each jaw. The anterior dorsal is nearer to the
pectoral than it is to the ventral : the posterior dorsal is smaller than the anterior, and situated opposite
to or rather behind the commencement of the anal : the incision of the caudal fin distinct. Oviduct of
embryo flocculent, and the ovary unconnected to the walls of the uterus.

Cestracion ZYG^ENA.

Squalus zygjENA, Linn, Sys. 1494.
Koma sorra, Russell, pi. 12, [young).
Sphyrna ZYGiENA, Cantor, Catal. p. 401.

THE FISHES OF malauak.

271

Sphyrnias zygjena, Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 48.
Cestracion ZYGiENA, Dwm&ril, Lch. gvn. i. p. 382.
Hammee-headed shark.

The anterior portion of the head is broad, flattened, and laterally elongated, with eyes on its
external margins, and nostrils situated anteriorly : its length from the angle of the mouth is about
one-third its breadth : its posterior margin is placed at acute angles with the body : its mouth small
and on the inferior surface. Nostrils patent, near the external portion of the anterior aspect of
the head, with a triangular lobe at their internal margins forming a valve, from which extends a
fissure along their external third.

Teeth— Pyramidal, all trenchant with smooth edges, those in the upper jaw somewhat the
broadest : there is a middle elongated tooth in either jaw.

Fins— The anterior dorsal commences opposite the termination of the pectoral, its anterior
margin one third longer than its base. The second dorsal smaller, it commences opposite the
anterior margin of the anal, but terminates before the latter in an elongated point. Ventrals
situated midway between the base of the pectoral and the base of the caudal.

Scales — Minute, with several ridges.

Colours— Body and fins of a dull slate-grey : under surface white : iris golden.

Its flesh is considered very nourishing, and is extensively salted : its fins are dried : whilst a
medicinal oil is extracted from its fiver, which is believed by the Natives to be a good remedy for
" night blindness" (nyctalopia). It grows to eleven feet or more in length, and is much dreaded.

Habitat— Tropical and temperate seas of both hemispheres.

* Cestracion Leeuwenii.

Zyg,ena Leeuwenii, Griffith, Cuv. Animal Kingdom, p. 640, pi. 50.
Cestracion Leeuwenii, Dumeril, lch. gen. i. p. 383.

Head shaped as in the C. zygoma, its width as compared to its length and to that of the tail
has the same proportions as in the last species.

Fins— The same as in the last species, but the lower lobe of the caudal, instead of being
directed very obliquely from above downwards, and from before backwards, and forming with the
horizontal portion of the fin a sort of fork, follows a slightly oblique direction, from which it results
that its posterior border approaches to the vertical and reunites almost at a right angle with the

upper lobe.

Habitat— Red Sea, Seas of Malabar, Australia, and New Zealand ; also of Senegal, Algeria,

and the Brazils.

Sub-Order.— EAJ^E.
Fam. SQUATINORAIJOIDjE.

Squatinoraies, Dumeril.
Galeobatides, Dumeril.

272 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

Group PEISHSIDJi.

Genus PRISTIS, Latham.
Pkistibatis, Blainville.

Snout prolonged, flattened, and laterally armed with numerous flattened, trenchant teeth, which are
directed almost directly outwards, commencing from in front of the nostril and continued almost to its
termination. .Nostrils some distance anterior to the mouth, each with a narrow, long, triangular valve at
its upper margin, and a hem-like one at its lower. Mouth straight and transverse, having a membraneous
transverse valve with a straight lower margin behind the teeth in the upper jaw. Spiracles large, separated
by a broad bridge from the eyes. Upper eyelid without a projection. Teeth flattened like paving stones.
Anterior dorsal partly above the ventral, the two dorsals of equal size. Caudal short, with or without a
lower lobe.

Peistis semisagittatus.
Squalus semisagittatus, Shaw, Zool. v. pt. II. p. 361; Cantor, Catal. p. 407 ; Dumiril,

Ich. gen. i. p. 477.
Yahla, Russell, pi. 13.

Snout extended anteriorly into a flattened bone, armed with laterally compressed teeth directed
outwards, and varying from twenty-four to thirty-five on a side, whilst there are six or seven more
on one side (generally the right) than on the other. In the immature the teeth are only situated
in the last three-fourths of the snout, whilst in the foetus they are not apparent. The first six pairs
of the anterior teeth in the adult are opposite, their front edge rather convex, their posterior
barbed at their inferior third.

Mouth transverse with a transversal membraneous valve (fringed in the young) behind the
teeth in the upper jaw, and with a deep notch near the symphysis. No cartilages exist at the
angle of the mouth. The upper eyelid has no projection. The pupil is transverse, with one semi-
circular flap above and another below ; these flaps are easily raised, depressed, or expanded,
apparently at the pleasure of the fish, or perhaps according to the stimulus of light received, which
they can partially or entirely exclude : lens very soft. Spiracles large, posterior to the eyes, from
which they are separated by a broad ridge. Anterior branchial aperture placed just below the
origin of the pectoral. Nostrils situated about their transverse length from the mouth, each has
a long triangular narrow valve in its upper, and a hem-like one at its lower margin : they are
three-fourths of their length apart posteriorly, and one and a half times anteriorly, whilst exter-
nally they are close to the margin of the snout.

Teeth — Flattened like paving stones.

Fins — The first dorsal commences opposite the posterior end of the ventral : the second dorsal
midway between the posterior extremity of the first dorsal and the base of the caudal. The two
dorsals are of equal size, their anterior extremities one-third longer than their posterior ones, their
upper margins concave, and their posterior rather produced. Posterior margin of the caudal deeply
excavated so as to form two lobes. The external margin of the pectoral concave, its posterior
margin rather more than one-third the length of its anterior.

There is a sharp ridge or keel laterally along the tail between the sides and the abdominal
surfaces. The male appendages are joined by then- anterior two-thirds to the inner margins of
the ventrals.

Tin; PISHES OF MALABAR. 273

Scales — Minute, of irregular sizes, and situated over the whole of the surface except the
summit of the male appendages and the teeth of the saw. They arc rather the largest and roughest
on the back.

Colours — Greyish yellow above, whitish beneath. Iris golden with a black edge.

Grows to seven feet and upwards in length. The flesh is as much esteemed as that of the
sharks. The fins are prepared and sent to China: oil is extracted from the livers, whilst the skins
are useful for sword belts or for smoothing down wood.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Group RHAMPHOBATIDES.
Genus EHYNCOBATUS, Mull & Ernie.

Snout elongated, acute, with a central, longitudinal, tapering keel, the interval between which and the
inner margin of the pectoral is membraneous : undulations of snout are shallow, especially the lateral ones.
Superior and inferior nasal valves extend only half way to the inner angle of the nostril, whilst external
to the nostril at its upper and outer part is a narrow hem. Spiracles close behind the eyes. The upper
eyelid with a simple projection. Teeth broader than long, with a transverse ridge. An arched row of
pores extends across the abdominal surface of the scapular region.

Ehyncobatus Djeddensis.

Eaja Djiddensis, Forsk. 18.

Walawah tenkee, Russell, pi. x. (young.)

Ehyncobatus Djeddensis, Cantor, Catal. p. 412.

Ehyncobatus levis, Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 92 ; Dumeril, Icli. g£n. i. p. 483.

Snout elongated, with a tapering keel along its centre. From its anterior extremity to its
mouth, equals about one-sixth of its entire length. The distance from the nostrils to the lateral
margin is about one-third of their length, whilst their distance apart posteriorly nearly equals
their total length, anteriorly they are rather more than twice as far asunder. Eyes large, upper
lid with a simple projection. Spiracle close behind the orbit. There is a narrow membraneous
hem to the upper margin of the nostril : the superior and inferior nasal valves do not extend so
far as the inner margin of the nostrils. Mouth transverse, situated midway between the anterior
extremity of the snout and the postei'ior margin of the pectoral fin, it is about half the width of
the head. A transverse arched row of pores exists on the abdominal side of the scapular region.

Teeth — Broader than long with transverse ridges.

Fins — First dorsal commences opposite the centre of the base of the ventral, the length of
their bases ai-e about equal, and half the anterior height of the anterior margin of the first dorsal.
The second dorsal is half nearer to the base of the caudal than to the posterior extremity of the
first dorsal, it is smaller than the latter fin, but its shape is the same. Pectoral irregularly trian-
gular, its posterior free margin being only one-third as long as its anterior edge. Upper margin
of caudal convex, lower concave : superior lobe slightly the largest.

Scales — Minute, of irregular shapes and sizes, keeled : a number of sharp curved spines directed

2 N

274 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

backwards in rows exist in various parts of the body. A supraorbital row of them extends from
the anterior margin of the orbit round its upper edge to above the spiracle : a second extends
from a central point between the termination of the last two and proceeds along the back to the
base of the first dorsal, the spines on it being much further apart than in the other lines : from
slightly behind the commencement of the dorsal line of spines is a short diverging row on either
side ; also a row on the shoulder : and two or three spines on the scapular.

The lateral keel commences a little above the termination of the ventrals.

Colours— The immature are dull grey above, whitish — sometimes tinged reddish — beneath,
with a dark or black band on the upper eyelid and a dark spot on either side of the snout. Also
there is usually, but not invariably, a black spot at the root of the pectoral. The body is spotted
with whitish, or light grey. Iris golden : pupils transverse. The adult is of a dull grey above
and lighter on the abdomen.

Its flesh is considered nourishing whether eaten salted or fresh, and oil from its liver is
much esteemed. It grows to five feet in length.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India and Malaysia.

Group RHINOBATIDES.
Genus RHINOBATUS, Bl. Schn.

Snout more or less acute : the skull prolonged anteriorly into a keel, the interval between which and
the inner margin of the pectoral fin is membraneous. The upper nasal valve is longer and more
slender than the inner, which is shorter and broader : the outer lappet, which is nearly in the middle
of the upper edge of the nostril, is slender, but extends in the form of a rounded point to the
under margin of the nostril, and is not sharply divided from the inner valve, which extends more or less
widely inwards. Spiracles and eyes approximating, both surrounded by a thick wall of skin : the upper
eyelid has a central projection. The fore-lateral edge of the disk is twice gently incurved.

* RHINOBATUS OBTUSUS.

Rhinobatus obtusus, Mull. & Henle, Plag. 122 ; Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 97; Blyth,
Joum. Asiatic Soc. xxix. p. 37 ; Dumevil, Ich. gen. i. p. 493.

The disk is from ^ to \ longer than wide, and is rather more than \ of the total length.

Snout short, blunt, and rounded ; its length — from the middle of a line passing before the
nostrils, from one external angle to the other— is equal to the space which this line measures.
From the anterior margin of the eyes it is two and a half times longer than is the interorbital
space. Keel on the snout (seen from above) is three times longer than wide at its base ; it is
narrowed in its central portion, and has a well marked groove behind, scarcely perceptible in its
middle, but reappearing towards its anterior extremity. The distance between the nostrils is less
than that which separates them from the border of the disk, but similar to the width of their
opening. A prolongation or rather strong fold of skin exists at the posterior part of the air-hole.

Scales — Are in the form of an ace of spades, with a very dull point directed backwards ; many
are covered with an enamel-like substance, which causes its lateral grooves to appear dotted with

THE FISHES OP MALARAK.

275

white, more especially in tho immature : there aro traces of tubercles in the mesial line only, before
the eyes, at the posterior border of the air-holes and on a level with tho scapular constriction j
they are always blunt, excepting in the immature, when they are spinous.

Colours— Brown inclining to reddish-violet along the border of the disk and the region
of the snout.

Habitat — Seas of India, and of the Cape of Good Hope.

* Rhinoratus granulatus.

? Rhinoratus rhinobatus, Bl. Schn. p. 353.

Rhinobatus granulatus, Cuvier, Rfeg. An. 2nd Ed. t. ii. p. 396 ; Gray, Catal. Brit.
Mus. p. 95; Bhjth, Journ. Asiatic Soc. 1860, xxix. p. 36.

Disk equal to about \ of the total length : its width is § of the length.

Snout much elongated : its length is double as long as the distance between the external
angles of the nostrils, and five times or more of that between the superciliary ridges. Keel on
snout visible in the immature, but absent or only present at its base in the mature. Openings of
the nostrils equal to the space between them, or a little shorter, and nearly double the interval
which separates their external margins from the edge of the disk. There are two cutaneous pro-
longations at the posterior border of the air-holes.

Scales — Very small in the lateral regions, and scarcely elevated : they become more numerous
and larger on the keel of the snout, between the eyes, on the anterior borders of the vertical fins,
and in the mesial region where they occupy a considerable space : at these various places they
become granulations more or less obtuse, the largest of which constitute tubercles. They are
more developed in the immature.

Colours — Greenish grey.

Habitat — Seas and estuaries of India.

Fam. RALE.

Raies, Dumeril.

Group.— TORPEDINES.

Sub-Group.— With two dorsal fins.
Genus NARCINE, Henle.

Disk orbicular, elliptical, or angular, anteriorly rounded and provided with a broad keel. Mouth
small, protractile, surrounded by a circular fold of skin which terminates superiorly in the frenulum of the
nasal valve. Nasal valve straight, having a central projection, and occasionally being slightly produced
laterally, so that it appears trifid. A labial cartilage above and below. Lips not fixed to the jaws, but
moveable : a membraneous valve behind the upper jaw. Spiracles immediately behind the eyes : their
margins smooth. Teeth in quincuncial order, with a central point : they project beyond the margins of
the jaws in the form of an elliptical plate. Tail equal to or longer than the disk. Two dorsal fins, the
anterior behind the ventral and generally smaller than the posterior.

2 n2

THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

* Narcine Ixdica.

Xaectne Indica, Mull. & Henle, 35, t. ii. f. 2 ; Cantor, Catal. p. 417 ; Gray, Catal.
Brit. Mus. p. 102; Dumeril, Ich. gen. i. p. 517.

Disk pentagonal, slightly broader than long, rounded anteriorly and provided with a broad
keel. Mouth small, protractile, surrounded by a circular fold of skin : a labial cartilage above and
beneath : lips moveable, not fixed to the jaws. Nasal valve straight, with a central projection.
Eyes much smaller than the air-holes. Spiracles immediately behind the eyes, then- margins
smooth.

Teeth — In quincunx with a point in the middle : they project beyond the margin of the jaw
like an elliptical plate.

Fins — The anterior dorsal commences behind the ventrals, and is smaller than the posterior,
its base equals half the length of its anterior margin : in the young its apex forms an acute angle,
but in the adult becomes rounded. The distance between the two dorsals equals that between the
posterior dorsal and the caudal. The size and shape of the two dorsals is similar. Ventrals
triangular. The tail is slightly longer than the body, except in the very young, when it is
shorter.

The male appendages project but slightly beyond the inner margins of the ventral fin.

Colours — Body and fins above reddish brown, with numerous irregularly sized chocolate
coloured spots : lower surface white. Pupil triangular, apex below. Iris golden. In the immature
the spots have a white margin.

This fish — my specimens of which have been mislaid — is rare along the coast of Malabar, except
where there are rocks : to the south it is very abundant. It grows to eighteen inches in length.
" Out of the water they may be handled with impunity." — Cantor.

Habitat — Seas of Malabar and Malaysia.

Sub-Group.— With one dorsal fin.
Genus ASTEAPE, Mull. & Henle.

G-enerally similar to the Genus Narcine. Snout short and without a keel. Frenulum of the nasal
valve with a cylindrical cartilage. Teeth pointed, each having a tetragonal base, and projecting slightly
beyond the margin of the jaw. A membraneous valve in both jaws. Eyes and spiracles approximating, the
latter smooth. Dorsal fin single, both it aud the caudal rounded.

ASTRAPE DIPTERYGIA.

Rajah dipterygia, Bl. Schn. 359.

Astrape dipterygia, Cantor, Catal. p. 419 ; Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 103 ; Dumeril,
Ich. gen. i. p. 523.

Disk rounded, as wide as long, covering the anterior margins of the ventrals. Snout short
without any keel. A membraneous valve to both jaws. Spiracles smooth, close to and much
larger than the eyes. A cylindrical cartilage to the bridle of the nasal flap.

THE FISHES OP MALABAR. 277

Teeth — Pointed, with tetragonal bases; they slightly project beyond the margin of the jaws.

Fins — Ventrals tetragonal, with the angles acute in the young, rounded in the adidt. Caudal
rounded.

Colours — Dull reddish-olive above, whitish beneath: a largo whitish spot at the posterior
margin of tho disk, another above the terminatinn of the ventrals, and a third on either sido of
the root of the caudal. Anterior half of ventrals whitish. Dorsal and caudal darkish above,
light beneath. Iris golden.

Rather rare in Malabar, grows to nine inches or more in length.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Group TRIGONES.

Genus TEYGON, (Adanson,) Mull. & Henle.

Teigonobatus, Blainv.
Dasybatus, Rafin.
Pastinace, Dumeril.

Disk oval or rhoinboidal. Tail of equal length to, or longer than the body, without a hern (Himantwa) >
or with one not extending to its apex. Mouth slightly arched. Teeth with a central point or transverse
tubercle, which in some is rough, and with a more or less distinct transverse furrow in front and behind,
that of the lateral teeth being most distinct : the whole surface is more or less wrinkled : membraneous
valve of the upper jaw with a straight deeply fringed margin, a second behind it which is deeply notched.
In the lower jaw several papilla? behind the teeth.

Tail without fin.

Trygon uarnak.

Rajah uarnak, Forsh. p. 18, no. 16, b.
Trygon Eussellii, Gray, HI. I. Z. ii. pi. 100.
Trygon variegatus, Mc Clelland, Cal. J. N. H. i. p. 60, pi. 2, f. 2.
Trygon uarnak, Cantor, Catal. p. 423 ; Bhjtli, Cartilaginous Fishes of lower Bengal,
Journal Asiatic Society, xxx. p. 44, no. 23 ; Dumeril, Ich. gen. i. p. 585.

Disk slightly broader than long, snout triangular, pointed, and very prominent in the young,
but in the adult its length from between the centre of the nostrils exceeds by one-third the
breadth of that interval.

Mouth slightly arched : membraneous valve of the upper jaw having a straight deeply fringed
margin, the posterior valve deeply notched. In the immature the eyes are prominent, not so in
the adult, in which last they do not project beyond the level of the spiracles.

Teeth — With a central point or transverse tubercle, having a shallow groove before and
behind : there are several papillae in the mandibulae behind the teeth.

Fins — Caudal about four times as long as the body, compressed laterally, and widest in front
of its serrated spine, which is situated about the end of the first eighth of the tail : beyond this

278 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

spine the tail tapers off to a very fine extremity, it has a narrow skinny margin which commences
from opposite its spine but does not extend so far as to the extremity of the caudal.

Scales — in the very young — with a disk of six inches across — there are two or three rows of
widely separated oval scales on either side of the head, internal to the eyes, and meeting on the
occiput, from thence towards the scapular is a single row of larger and more widely separated
ones. In the centre of the back three large closely approximating scales, the centre one heart-
shaped, the anterior round, and the posterior almost heart-shaped. In some specimens of a large
size, there are also numerous distant thorns on the tail which disappear with age.

In specimens with a disk of three feet across, the head, back, and sides are covered with
smooth, roundish scales, with smaller ones intermediate.

Colours — Vary according to age : up to the period when the breadth of the disk is about
nine inches, the body is of a yellowish brown darkest along the back, and the abdomen white :
a short distance beyond the commencement of the tail it is irregularly annulated with alternate
narrow light brown, and broad or narrow dark brown rings.

As its age increases black spots commonly appear on the body, and when it has attained the
width of three feet across its disk it is light brown or greyish olive, covered with fighter and in
some almost white spots, whilst the anterior extremity of the tail also shows the remains of the
rings.

The adult is uniformly brownish or greenish olive. Iris golden.

Grows to a very large size : the immature are frequently captured in the backwaters, and
wounds from their caudal spines are much dreaded. In one instance an old man was admitted
the Civil Hospital in Cochin for mortification of the arm, due to a wound inflicted by one of these
fish, which he attempted to drag out of the sea into a boat : it wound its tail round his arm,
and dragged its spine through the muscles down nearly to the bone.

Habitat — Eed Sea, Seas and estuaries of India, Malaysia, China, and the Cape of Good Hope.

Genus PTEROPLATEA, Mull. & Henle.

Dasyatis, Eafin.

Disk is almost or more than twice as broad as long. Tail short, generally shorter than the body,
and either with low fins or naked. Mouth slightly arched. The teeth do not extend so far as the angle
of the mouth ; they have from one to three points. The upper membraneous valve of the jaw is indistinct,
and without a fringe. There are no papillae in the lower jaw. The skin is smooth or covered with tubercles.
Often a slight papilla at the posterior border of the spiracles.

Pteroplatea micruea.

Rajah miceura, Bl. Schn. p. 360.

Tenkee kunsul, Russell, pi. 6.

Pteeoplatea miceuea, Cantor, Catal. p. 427 ; Dumeril, Ich. g£n. p. 613.

Dasyatis miceuea, Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 122.

THE FISHES OF MALABAR. 279

Tho length of the disk in tho adult is three-fourths of its width, but in the immature it is less
than half.

Snout moderately prominent, more so in the immature. Mouth rather arched. The distance
between the inner angles of the nostrils equals about half their longest diameter, but that between
their external angles is double what obtains from the centre to the point of the snout in the adult.
A depression exists in the upper jaw, external to the teeth, and a corresponding elevation in the
lower jaw. No denticle on the margin of the spiracles.

Teeth — Tricuspidate, their central elevations being longer than their lateral ones, which are
horizontal. In both jaws tho teeth are confined to the central third.

Fins — The anterior margin of the pectoral rather convex, and slightly exceeding in length that
of its posterior, which is slightly concave, its external angle conical, its internal moderately rounded.
Ventrals elongated, tetragonal, with their posterior angles rounded. Caudal shorter than the body
in the iinruature, but rather longer in the adult, its spine slender and situated on its anterior fifth.

Colours — In the immature superiorly reddish brown, with numerous indistinct dark dots and
light spots : underneath dirty white. In the adult bluish brown above, dirty white underneath ;
tail annulated with dark brown and pinkish-white rings, in the centre of each of which last on the
upper surface is usually a round dark spot.

Eaten by the Natives of Malabar, where however it is not common. It grows to as large as
four feet across the disk.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas of India, Malaysia, and China.

Genus HYPOLOPHUS, Mill. & Henle.

Form of the body the same as in the Trygons, but considerable difference in the mouth. Tail with a
fin which does not reach to its apex : upper fin absent. The centre of the lower jaw is pointed and pro-
jecting, and on each side has a cavity directed forwards : the margin of the upper jaw is excavated in the
centre for the purpose of receiving the point of the lower jaw, and also bulges on the sides. Teeth like
paving stones, hexagonal, broader than long : in the upper jaw the central ones are small, those at the sides
larger ; in the lower jaw they are of nearly equal size, but the external ones are the smallest.

Hypolophus sephen.

Raja sephen, Forsk. 17, no. 16.
Wolga Tenkee, Russell, pi. 3.

Hypolophus sephen, Cantor, Catal. p. 429 ; Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 123 ; Blyth,
Journ. Asiatic Soc. xxix. p. 37, no. 14 ; Dumeril, Ich. g<5n. i. p. 616.

Disk rhombic, angles rounded, the snout more pointed in the young than in the adult. The
distance from the snout to the mouth is two-sevenths of the length between the snout and the
anus. The distance between the nostrils equals half their distance from the snout. Under jaw
pointed in its centre, and on either side of its extremity is an elliptical cavity : the margin of
the upper jaw is excavated in its centre to receive the point of the lower jaw, whilst externally it
is very convex. Pupils of eyes transversely oval.

Teeth — Like a pavement, hexagonal, broader than long : in the centre of the upper jaw they

280 THE FISHES OF MALABAR.

are small, but larger at its sides. In the lower jaw those in the centre of equal size to the teeth
in the upper, but smaller externally.

Puis The external angles of the ventrals are acute, the internal obtuse. Tail three or four

times the length of the body, with a broad serrated spine varying from one-fifth to one-eighth of
its length, and situated slightly behind its anterior third : the membraneous fin is high, and begins
beneath the base of the spine and is continued beyond the middle third of its lower margin.

Scales Upper surface of the head and body covered by thick concave or flat headed, several

sided scales, the slightly raised edges of which are rough. In the scapular region and central hue
of the back are two in the young and three in the adult, of large, smooth, approximating scales,
the middle and largest of which is usually oval, the second in size posterior and heart-shaped,
the anterior or smallest round or heart-shaped.

Colours — The upper surface of the immature is reddish brown, but in the adult lead-coloured,
becoming black in the posterior two-thirds of the tail.

This fish grows to a large size, when it is coarse eating. It is most common during the S.W.
monsoon. From the skin of its back some of the true " Shagreen" of commerce is prepared.
Wounds inflicted by the spine of its tail are considered dangerous.

Habitat — Seas of India and Malaysia.

Group MYLIOBATIDES, Dumeril.

Genus ^ETOBATIS, (Blainville), Mull. & Henle.

Snout pointed, composed by the united anterior pectoral rays. Nasal valves united with a straight
margin. Mouth transverse. Both jaws with a straight margin. Teeth hexagonal, in the centre a series
of broader ones, posteriorly increasing in breadth ; on either side smaller tetragonal plates resembling
paving stones, and fitting into the zig-zags of the central teeth ; those in the upper jaw longitudinally and
transversely convex : those of the lower flat or very slightly concave : the teeth of neither jaw occupy the
entire breadth.

iETOBATIS NAKINAEI.

Rajah narinaei, Bl. Schn. 361.

Eel-tenkee, Russell, pi. 8.

Myliobatis macroptera, McClelland, Cal. J. N. H. i. p. GO, f. 1, a. b.

Stoasodon narinari, Cantor, Catal. p. 434.

iETOBATis narinari, Gray, Catal. Brit. Mus. p. 130 ; Dumeril, Teh. g£n. i. p. 641.

Therrundee, Mai.

The comparative sizes vary greatly with age. The distance from the mouth to the anus
equals about half the width of the disk. The snout is conical, slightly broader at its base than it
is long : the lower jaw is acute and longer than the upper which has a straight margin. The nasal
valve is half the length of the snout, with a broad and conical lobule having a fringed edge near
to its external margin.

Teeth — The dental plates of both jaws do not extend the whole distance across : they form a

THE PISHES OF MALABAR. 281

series which are slightly arched in the upper jaw and have vertical denticulations. Those in the
lower jaw are two-thirds the breadth of those in the upper but more convex, forming the centre

of an obtuse angle and parallel to the margin of the jaw.

Fins — The dorsal commences opposite the end of the ventral, but does not extend so far
as to opposite its apex. Ventral about three times as long as broad. Tail three or four times as
long as the body, triangular in shape as far as the spine,' which is serrated and situated just behind
the termination of the dorsal: beyond the spine the tail is compressed; in this, as well as in some
other species, there is occasionally a second spine on the caudal fin a little behind the root of tin
first.

Scales — None.

Colours — Greyish olive, sometimes greenish above, covered from beyond the occiput with
numerous dirty white spots edged with black : abdominal surface white : tail black. Iris golden
green, teeth greenish yellow.

In the immature the back is of a deep leaden colour, and the spots hardly apparent.

Eaten by the Natives. Is captured to upwards of six feet in width, and its flesh is salted.

Habitat — Red Sea, Seas and estuaries of India and Malaysia.

2 o

INDEX.

Abatoo, 260
Acanthinion (Genus), 96

ACANTHOPTEEYGH (OeDEB), 1

Acanthostracion (Genus), 253
Acanthuroidei (Fam.), 12C
Acanthurus (Genus), 126
Achiroides (Genus), 173
Acoura (Genus), 202
Acourus (Genus), 202
Aceonubidjj (Fam.) 126
Acbonukus (Genus), 127
Acuhiitm, Chorineiuus, 92
Acupuncture, Instrument for, x.
Acuminatus, Heniochus, 33
Acuta, Dussumieria, 226
Acuta, Sillago, 47
Acuticaudatus, Leptoceplialus, 252
Aeutipinnis, Gobius, 112
Acutus, Carcharias, 26S
Acutus, Scoliodon, 268
JE(±uibarbi$, Arius, 178
JEsopia (Genus), 173
Mtobatis (Genus), 280
Affine, Diagramma, 23
Affinis, Panchax, 221
Affinis, Traehynotus, 97
Agrensis, Platacanthus, vi, 201
Aken parah, 92
Ala mottah, 75
Alausa (Genus), 234
Albida, Corvina, 54
Alboguttata, Diacope, 9
Alboguttata, Genyoroge, 9
A! bits, Stromateus, 76
Altus, Chatoessus, 243
Aeutaeius (Genus), 259
Ambassis (Genus), 15
Amblyopus (Genus), 116

AmBLTPUARYNGODON (GENUs),2i0

Amblyrhynchotus (Genus), 255
Amphacanthus (Genus), 123, 258
Amphibius, Systomus, 211
Anabas (Genus), xi, 132

ANACANTniNl(OKDER), 171

Ancuisomus (Genus), 255
Anema (Genus), 46
Anguilla (Genus), 244
Anguillaris, Plotosus, 195
A\c;uillotdei (Sub-Fail), 211
Annularis, Acanthurus, 126
Anuulata, Belone, 165
Antennaeius (Genus), 121
Anlika doondiaicah, 8
Apalike, Clupea, 228
Apalike, Elops, 228
Apistus (Genus), 41
Aplocheiliformes(Sub-Fam.),221
Apocryptes, (Genus), 113
Apodal fish, Kaup, vii.
Ajjolectus (Genus), 76
Apsicepihalus (Genus), 255, 256
Arab, Plotosus, x, 195
Arab, Silurus, 195
Arranna, 200
Aree, 30

Arii (Sub-Group), 175
Arius (Genus), 175, 177
Argenteus, Chatodon, 99
Argenteus, Clianos, xi.
Argenteus, Otolithus, 58
Argenteus, Psettus, 99
Argenteus, Stromateus, 76
Argus, Cacodoxus, 34
Argus, Chcetodon, 34
Argus, Scatopliagus, 34 «
Argyrostictus, Syngnathus, 264
Armata, Sc'uena, 89
Armatus, Caranx, 89
Armatus, Hypselobagrus, vi, 187
Armatus, Macrognathus, 153
Armatus, Mucrones, 187
Armatus, Mastacembjus, 153
Armatus, Triehiurus, 67
Arothron (Genus), 256
Arralceeah, 71
Asiatic Researches, 119

Assimilis, Systomus, 215
Astrape (Genus), 276
Atalantica, Elacatc, 74
Atherina (Genus), 135
Atherinidje (Fam.), 135
Athu, Silurus, 193
Atlas Ichthyologique, viii.
Atoohoia, 76
Atous, Stromateus, 76
Atromaculatus, Chcetodon, 31
Atropus, Brama, 88
Atropus, Caranx, 88
Atropus, Olistus, 88
Attu, "Wallago, 193
Auctorum, Lobotes, 24
Aulostomatoidei (Fail), 152
Aurantiacus, Ophiocephalus, 149
Auratus, Eugraulis, vi, 238
Aurolineatus, Mesoprion, 14
Auroliueatus, Paradanio, vi, 219
Aurolineatus, Perilampus, 219
Axillaris, Corvina, 53

Badi mottah, 200
Bagoda (Genus), 15
Baqeipoemes (Sub-Fam.), 175
Bageini (Geoup), 175
Bagei (Sub-Group), 184
Bailloni, Ccesiomorus, 98
Bailloni, Traehynotus, 98
Baker, Rev. H., v, ix, x, 130, 131,

185, 203, 206, 210, 213, 219
Bakeri, Barilius, vi, 218
Balistisid.e (Fam.) 259
Ballard, G. A. Esq., v, xxv.
Bandi goolivinda, 28
Baebini (Sub-Fam.), 208
Barbodes (Sub-Genus), 208
Baeilius (Genus), 218
Batasius, Pimelodus, 191
BATRAcniujj (Fam.), 119
Bateachocephalus (Genus), 182
Batrachops (Genus), 255

2 o 2

284

INDEX.

Bateachus (Genus), 119
Batta parra, 82
Beautiful Star, Vessel, xiii.
Bedula (Genus), 128
Begti, 2

Belami, Engraulis, x.
Belengeri, Apistus, 41
Belengeri, Caranx, 86
Belengeri, Comma, 54
Belengeri, Jolinius, 54
Belengeri, Tetraroge, 41
Bclobranchus (Genus), 114
Belone (Genus), x, 163
Bendilists (Sub-Genus), 218
Bengaliensis, Mursena, 244
Bengaliensis, Ophisternon, 251
Bengaliensis, Synbranchus, 251
Bennett, Fishes of Ceylon, viii.
Berbis, Equula, 106
Berth, Clirysophrys, 29
Beeycim; (Fam.), 1
Biaculeatus, Triacanthus, 260
Biaculeatus, Balistes, 260
BicJiu ka mutehee, 199
Bilineata, Plagusia, 174
Bilineatus, Pleuronectes, 174
Bivittata Elacate, 74
Black, Mr. xiii.
Black Poinfret, 79
Black rock fish, 24, 31
Bleeker, Dr., vi, viii, 130, 219
Bleekeri, Microphis, 265
Blenniidje (Fam.), 122
Blennioidei (Fam.), 122
Blepharis (Genus), 80
Blindness, Night, x.
Bloch, xii.

Blochii, Acauthurus, 126
Blochii, Equula, 105
Blochii, Trachynotus, 97
Boalis, Schille, 193
Boalis, Silurus, 193
Bokee sorrah, 2G7
Bola (Genus), 49, 52
Bombay duck, 201
Bontoo, Serranus, 3
Barbonicus, Mugil, 143
Boro, Ophisurus, 248

Boro, Pisoodonophis, 248

Bostrichthys (Genus), 114

Bowree, 260

Brachycephalus (Genus), 255, 256

Brachygramma (Genus), 216

Bkegmaceeos (Genus), 171

Brownii, Atherina, 237

Brownii, Engraulis, 237

Brwnneus, Buro, 126

Buchanan Hamilton, 133, 149, 190,

191
Buchanan Hamilton, Fishes of the

Ganges, viii.
Bullee kokah, 112
Bummaloh, 201
Butis, Gheilodipterus, 114
Butis, Eleotris, 1 14
Butis (Genus) 114

Calalla, Equula, 103
Cacodoxus (Genus), 34
Caecilophis (Genus), 247
Csecula, Cepola, 117
Cseculus, Amblyopus, 117
Caelatus, Arius, 178
Ceeruleopunctata, Diacope, 7
Cseruleopunctata, Genyoroge, 7
Cossiomorus (Genus), 96
Calamara, 30

Calamara, Chrysophrys, 30
Calcarifer, Lates, ix, xxvii. 2
Calcarifer, Holocentrum, 2
Calicut, Fish liver oil factory, xxv.
Calla, Caranx, 83
Calloptilum (Genus), 171
Cancila, Belone, 166
Candidus, Stromateus, 77
Cannoehtnchus (Genus), 152
Cantor, viii, 235, 237
Capoeta (Sub-Genus), 208, 211
Carah, Equula, 106
Caeangid-E (Fam.), 80
Carangus (Genus), 80
Carangoides (Genus), 80
Caeanx (Genus), 80
Carbuncidus, Platycephalus, 45
Cabchaei.e (Fam.), 268
Carcio, Pimelodus, 191

Carding cotton, Fish jaw used for,

193
Carinatus, Mugil, 145
Caringanah, 134
Caripe, 21

Caripe, Pristipoina, 21
Caris, Chcetodon, 161
Carouna, Corvina, 53
Carp, Gold, xii.
Carutta, Corvina, 53
Carutta, Johnius, 53
Castaneus, Plotosus, 195
Cataphorli ynchus (Genus), 255
Catebus, Gobius, 109
Catl-E (Geoup), 216
Catochcenum (Genus), 158
Catopra (Genus), 131
Catus, Coins, 11
Caudatus, Ophisurus, 248
Caudimaculata, Belone, 164
Cavasius, Bagrus, 188
Cavasius, Macrones, 1S8
Cavasius, Hypselobagrus, 1S8
Cavasius, Pimelodus, 1S8
Centrogaster (Genus), 123
Centrurophis (Genus), 247
Cestbacion (Genus), 270
Cesteaciontes (Fam.), 270
Cestrorliinus (Genus), 270
Ceylon, Fishes of, 3, 128
Chacca, Calliomorus, 44
Chacca Platycephalus, 44
Chacoidei (Fam.), 194
Chacunda, Chtpanodon, 242
Chacunda, Chatoessus, 242
Cliatareus, Coins, 37
Clusrojulis (Genus), 157
Cu-etodon (Genus), 31
Clicetomus (Genus), 241
Chanda (Genus), 15
Chanos (Genus), 224
Charlay, viii. 230
Chatoessus (Genus), 242
Cheelahoo, 64
Cheerul, 28

CheiliclUhys (Genus), 255
Chelonodon (Genus), 258
Chembolay, 11

INDEX.

285

Chena, Ophioeeplialus, 1-18
Chevola, Galliclhys, 90
Chetcolah paruh, 90
Cdieocenteus (Genus), 223
Chironectes (Genus), 121
ClntsiUoo, 3-1
Choaree verarl, 146
Chondropterygii, Gray, vii.
Ciioeinemus (Genus), 91
Cheomides (Fam.), 161
Chryseus, Pseudobagrus, vi, 185
Clirysobalion, Pristipoma, 20
Cheysophets (Genus), 29
Chrysopoma, Barbus, 208
Chrysopoma, Puiitius, 208
Chrysopoma, Systomus, 208
Chrysostigma, Pattellas, 221
Chumbum, 69
Chundawah, 107
Oiliaris, Caranx, 89
Ciliaris, Caranx, 90, 91
Ciliaris, Zeus, 90
Cinereus, Stromateus, 78
CirrTiostomus (Genus), 256
Citula, Caranx, 89
Claeias (Genus), 196
Classification adopted, xxx.
Climbing Perch, 133
Clupeoidjs (Fam,), 223
Coahlan, 166
Coast, Malabar, v.
Cobitioides (Fam.), 202
Cobojius, Cojus, 132
Cochin, v.

Cochinensis, Crayracion, 258
Cochinensis, Glyphidodon, 156
Cochin, Fishes of, v, 130
Cock-up, 2

Coilia (Genus), 241
Coma, Equula, 103
Comes, Hippocampus, 262
Commersonianus, Chorinemus, 92
Commersonii, Ambassis, 15
Commersonii, Pristipoma, 20
Commersonii, Psettus, 100
Commersonii, Cybium, 69
Comorin, Cape, v.

CONGBIFORMES (GeOUp), 245

Coodra meen, 262
Cooravoo, 146
Copiah, 164

Cora-mola, Ophioeeplialus, 150
Corniffcr (Genus), 2
Coromandcl, Fishes of, vii.
Coruchi, Etroplus, 162
Couvina (Genus), 52
coeythobatus (genus), 42
Cossyphus (Genus), 196
Conoeoidei (Sub. -Fam.), 245
Cotton, Fishes jaw-bone used for

carding, 193
Ceatracion (Genus), 256
Criniger, Gobius, 111
Crocodile fish, 44
Cryptopterus (Genus), 247
Ctenolabrhla (Fam.), 156
Cuddeerah, 47
Culius, Cheilodipterus, 115
Culius (Genus), 114
Cunculus, Microphis, 266
Cunculus, Syngnathus, 266
Cundinga, Cyprinodon, 228
Cundinga, Elops, 228
Cunnay, 228
Cunnesee, 136
Cunnesius, Mugil, 136
Cunnumboo, 138
Cunnumboo, Mugil, 141
Cupanus, Polyacanthus, 134
Curling, Ship, xiii.
Curroah, 215
Cursis, Bohita, x.
Cutlah, 50

Cuttay charlay, viii, 233.
Cuvier and Valenciennes, vii.
Cybium (Genus), 69
Cyclolabridce (Fam.), 157
Cypeinid^; (Sub-Oedee), 202
Cypbinodontoides (Fam.), 221
Cypeinoides (Fam.), 205

Dacer, Equula, 105
Dacer Jcarah, 105
Danio (Genus), 219
Daniones, (Group), 219
Dasyatis (Genus), 278

Dasybatus (Genus), 277
Da/nia, Cuius, 29
Datnia (Genus), 17
Daura, Equula, 105
Decapterus (Genus), SO
Delicatulus, Lactarius, 107
Denison, Sir W., xi, xii, 213
Denisonii, Labeo, 212
Denisonii, Puntius, 212
Dentex (Genus), 26
Dentex (Genus), 26
Descriptions, Mode of, xxxi.
Diacanthus, Serranus, 6
Diaeope (Genus), 7

DlAGEAMMA (GENUs), 23

Diapterus (Genus), 158
Bichotomycterus (Genus), 256
Bilobomycterus (Genus), 256
Diplogramme, Ophiocephalus, vi.

147
Dipterygia, Astrape, 276
Dipterygia, Rajah, 276
Biscoynathichthys (Genus), 205
Discognatlius (Genus), 205
Djeddensis, Eliyncobatus, 273
Djiddcnsis, Raja, 273
Doondiawah, 11
Dorab, Chirocentrus, xx, 223
Dorab, Clupea, 223
Dracaena, Apistus, 42
Dracaena Prosopodasys, 42
Deepane (Genus), 36
Brepanis, Trachynotus, 97
Dried fish, xviii.
Ductor, Gastcrosteus, 72
Ductor, Naucrates, 72
Dussumier, viii, 230
Dussumieeia (Genus), 226
Dussumieri, Ambassis, 16
Dussumieri, Anguilla, 244
Dussumieri, Batrachus, 120
Dussumieri, Chanda, 16
Dussumieri, Cirrhinus, 207
Dussumieri, Clarias, 197
Dussumieri, Coilia, 242
Dussumieri, Corvina, 51
Dussumieri, Johnius, 51
Bussumieri, Julis, 157

286

INDEX.

Dussumieri,
Dussuuiieri,
Dussumieri,
Dussumieri,
Dussumieri,
Dussumieri,
Dussumieri,
Dutch E. I.

Leptocephalus, 252
Pellona, 231
Platyglossus, 157
Pristipoma, 22
Eohita, 207
Sciama, 51
Umbrina, 48, 49
Company, vii, viii.

East India Company, English, vii.

Echeneis (Genus), 75

Echiopsis (Genus), 247

Edentula, Equula, 103

Edentulus, Scomber, 103

Eel-tenkee, 280

Ekala, Caranx, 86

Ekala-parah, 86

Eeacate (Genus), 93

Elapsopsis (Genus), 247
Eleoteis (Genus), 114
Eleotriodes (Genus), 114
Elephantiasis Arabian, x.
Elephantiasis Greecorum, x.
Elops (Genus), 277
Elphinstonii, Anguilla, 244
Enchelycore (Genus), 249
Enchelynassa (Genus), 249
Enchelyopus (Genus), 244
Engeli, Mugil, 139
Enoeaulis (Genus), 236
Ensifera, Equula, 103
Ephippus (Genus), 35
Epipedorhynchus (Genus), 256
Equula (Genus), 102
Erate, Lobotes, 24
Erruttum corah, 2 1
Erythrcea, Sillago, 47
Erythrurus, Serranus, 4
Eteoplus (Genus), 161
Ettee, 267

Euryglossa (Genus), 173
Eurymyctera (Genus), 249
Eurypleura (Genus), 173
Euschistodus (Genus), 158
Exodentata, Mursenesox, 246
Ejcodon, Mursenesox, 246

Falcatus, Trachynotus, 97

Falcifer, Trachynotus, 97
Falciformis, Monodactylus, 100
Falciformis, Psettus, 100
FarJcharii, Chorinemus, 92
Farhharii, Lobotes, 24
Fasciata, Clupea, 106
Fasciata, Engraulis, 237
Fasciata, Equula, 106
Fasciatus, Blennius, 122
Fasciatus, Salarias, 122
Favaginea, Gymnothorax, 250
Favaginea, Murcena, 250
Faviginea, Gymnothorax, 250

Filamentosum, Catochcenum, 159

Filamentosus, Gerres, 159

Filamentosus, Leuciscus, 215

Filamentosus, Megalops, 228

Filamentosus, Puntius, 215

Filamentosus, Systomus, 215

FiVujera, Equula, 106

Fimbriata, Spratella, viii, xx, 233

Fins, Fish, xxviii.

Fish, Acclimatisation of, xii.

Fishermen, Taxes upon, xiv.

Fishes of Cochin, xxix.

Fish fins, xxviii.

Fishing, Modes of, xiv.

Fish Maws, viii, xx, 62

Fish, Migration of, xi.

Fish Oil, xxi, xxii, xxiii, xxiv, 230.

Fish Oils, Preparation of. xxiv, xxv

Fish ova, Modes of conveyance, xii.

Fish, Preserving, xxviii.

Fish roe, ix, 138, 235

Fish sldns, xxviii.

Fish, Salt, viii, xv.

Fish sounds, viii, xx.

Fish standard, ix.

Fistulaeidj; (Fam.), 152

FlSTULABOIDEI (FAM.), 152

Flavo-cseruleus, Serranus, 4
Fluviatilis, Crayracion, 256
Fluviatilis, Tetrodon, 256
Foliacca, Solea, 173
Foliacea, Synaptura, 173
Fossilis, Saccobranchus, 198
Formosus, Serranus, 7
Forskalii, Atherina, 135

Forsteri, Caranx, 86

Fresh water fishes of Southernlndia.

xxix.
Frog, Sea, x.

Fulviflanuna, Mesoprion, 13
Fulviflamma, Sciaena, 13
Fusca, Eleotris, 115
Fusca, Pacilia, 115
Fuscus, Ophiocephalus, 150

Gachua, Ophiocephalus, 149
Gadidje (Fam.), 171
Gadoidei (Fam.), 171
Gagora, Arius, 179
Gagora, Pimelodus, 179
Galeobatides (Fam.), 271
Gallichthys (Genus), 80
Gallus, Zeus, 91
Gallus, Caranx, 91
Gama, Don Vasco de, vi.
Gamorah, Equula, 104
Gamorah Tcarah, 104
Gangene, Batrachoides, 119
Gaeea (Genus), 205
Gabejs (Geoup), 205
Gostrophysus (Genus), 255
Gelatinosus, Polynemus, 60
Geneion (Genus), 255
Gentoeoge (Genus), 7
Georgii, Hemiramphus, 170
Geeees (Genus), 158
Geeeidje (Fam.), 158
Gibbosus, Barbus, 208
Giurus, Gobius, 109
Glyphidodon (Genus), 156
Gnathanodon (Genus), 80
Gobiidje (Fam.), 108
Gobioidei (Fam.), 108, 122
Gobioides (Genus), 116
Gobius (Genus), 108
Goorum, 152
Goyalpara, 149
Graii, Belone, 166
Grammicus, Synagris, 26
Grandinosus, Ophiocephalus, 116
Granosus, Arius, 178
Granulatus, Ehinobatus, 275
Grapes, xxviii.

INDEX.

287

Gray and Hardwicke, Illustrations,

viii.
Grey Pomfrct, 78
Griscum, Diplogramme, 24
Griseus, Stromateus, 78
Grunniens, Batrachus, 119
Grunniens, Batrachus, 120
Grunniens, Cottus, 119
Giintlieria (Genus), 157
Giinther, Dr. A., vii, 130, 149, 190,

191
Giintheri, Mastacemblus, vi, 15-1
Guttatum, Cybium, 71
Guttatus, Scomber, 71
Guoraka, 22

Guoraka, Pristipoma, 22
Gurrali parah, 90

Gyhnodontid^: (Sub-Order), 255
Gymnothoracoidei (Sub-Pam.),

249
Gyhnothorax (Genus), 249

Halichceres (Genus), 157
Hamiltonii, Engraulis, 239
Hamiltonii, Bedula, 129
Hamiltonii, Mastacemblus, 153
Hamiltonii, Puntius, xxx, 213
Hamiltonii, Systomus, 213
Hammer-headed shark, xi, 271
Haea (Genus), 184
Harancha, Ophisurus, 248
Hardwicke, General, 149
Harpiochirus (Genus), 36
Harpodon (Genus), 199
Haepodon (Genus), 201
Hasta, Chrysophrys, 29
Hasta, Dentex, 26
Hasta, Lutjanus, 20
Hasta, Pristipoma, 20
Hasta, Spams, 29
Haumela, Clupea, 66
Haumela, Trichiurus, 66
Heberi, Caranx, 86
Heberi, Scomber, 86
Hemibageus (Genus), 186
Hemiramphus (Genus), xi, 167
Hemitantoga (Genus), 157
Heniochus (Genus), 32

Ilepsetus, Atherina, 135
Ilcptadaetylus, Polynemus, 59
Herinanniana, Cepola, 116
Hermaniuanus, Amblyopus, 116
Hermannianus, Amblyopia, 117
Herpetoichthys (Genus), 247

HETEROBEANCIIirOEMES (SUB-

Pam.), 190
Heteeobranchoidei (Pam.), 196
Heteropneustes (Genus), 198
Heterosomata (Genus), 172
Hill trout, 206

Hippocampin^: (Group), 262
Hippocampus (Genus), 262
Hippos, Caranx, 86
Hippos, Scomber, 86
Histoire Naturelle des Poissons, vii,

HOLOCENTEUM (GeNUs), 1

Homoprion (Genus), 49
Horridus, Serranus, 5
Humeralis, Eleotris, 114
Hyder Ali, xi.
Hynnis (Genus), 80
Hypolophus (Genus), 279
Hypselobageus (Genus), 187
Rypsypops (Genus), 156

ICHTHYOCAMPUS (GENUS), 263

Ichthyological Gleanings, xxix.
Ichthyology, neglected in the East,

vii.

HarcJies (Genus), 35
llislia, Clupanodon, 235
Immaculatus, Cannorliynchus, 152
Immacidatus, Synbranchus, 251
Indica, Narcine, 276
Indica, Scyris, 91
Indicas, BJepliaris, 90
Indicus, Elops, 228
Indicus, Megalops, 228
Indicus, Mullus, 28

Indicus, Naucrates, 72

Indicus, Ophiocephalus, 151

Indicus, Polynemus, xxvii, 59, 60

Indicus, Upeneus, 28, 29

Inerme, Anema, 46

Inermis, Uranoscopus, 46

Ingelee, 195

Insidiator, Cottus, i:i

Insidiator, Platycephalus, 43

Insidiator, Zeus, 102

Insidiatrix, Equula, 102

Irrwa, 44

Isinglass, viii, xxv, xxvi, 2, 25, 52,

58, 62, 182
Isinglass, Manufacture of, xxvii.

Jaculator, Toxotes, 37
Jaculatrix, Sciana, 37
Jahngarah, 11
James, Col. Sir Henry, v.
Japonicus, Anthias, 25
Japonicus, Scolopsis, 25
Java, Teuthis, 125
Javus, Amphacanthus, 125
Jello, Sphyraena, 64
Jelloiv, 64

Jerdon, Dr., viii, xxix, 217, 219, 220,
235

Jerdoni, Amblypharyngodon, vi,
217

Jerdoni, Brachygramma, 217

Jerree potoo, 174

Jinagoio, 227

Johnii, Anthias, 11

Johnii, Mesoprion, 11

Jolinius (Genus), 49

Julidina (Sub-Pah.), 157

Julis (Genus), 157

Kaakan, Pristipoma, 20

Kahree meen, 198

Kalla, Caranx, 83

Kallee maee, 7

Kanagurta, 68

Kanagurta, Scomber, xx, 68

Kappa koorawah, 255

Karah, 106

Kar arwoolee, 79

Kate, Scolopsis, 25

Kauki sandawah, 99

Kaup, vii.

Keelputa, 17

Keelcha, 17

Kelartii, Ophiocephalus, 150

Killi meen, 6

288

INDEX.

Kodipungi, 38

Koeheuteri, Naucrates, 72

Kokanutchee, 220

Kokius, Gobius, 109

Koku, 109

Koma sorra, 270

Komah karah, 103

Kome, 243

Konam, 69

Koorie, 226

Kora, xxvii.

7ror«, Gobius, 109

Korah-motlah, 109, 150

Kuddera, 161

Kuddul mahcutchee, x.

Kuhlii, Cybium, 71

Kullahray, 111!

Kullaray meen, 157

Kundinga, 22S

Kuravu, 150

Kurite, 25

Kurite, Scolopsis, 25

Kurra, 81

Kurra, Caranx, 81

Kurrupu, 5

Kuterah, 123

Labeones (Geouf), 206
Labeonini (Sub-Fam.), 205
Labkidje (Fam.), 157
Labroidei ctenoidei (Fam.), 156
Labroidei cycloidei (Fam.), 157
Labyrinth ibrancliii (Fam.), 132, 146
Labybinthici (Fam.), 132
Labyrinthici (Fam.), 146
Lactaeius (Genus), 107
Lactarius, Scomber, 107
Lcetophrys (Genus), 253
LaBvis, Alutarius, 259
Laevis, Balistes, 259
Lcevis, Bhyncobatus, 273
Lagocephalus (Genus), 255
Lamia, Carcharias, 270
Lamia, Carcharinus, 270
Lamia, Prionodon, 270
Lanceolata, Murrenesox, 246
Lanceolatus, Holocenfrus, 4
Lanceolatus, Serranus, 4

Lates (Genus), 2
Latte-terla, 36
Latus, Ophiocephalus, 151
Leeuwenii, Cestracion, 271
Leeuwenii, Zygaena, 271
Leiodon (Genus), 258
Leiopleura, Tetrodon, 255
Leiosomus (Genus), 258
Leiostomus, (Genus), 49
Lembus (Genus), 114
Leptocephalid^i (Fam.), 251
Leptocephalus (Genus), 251
Leptorhinophis (Genus), 247
Lepturus, Trichiurus, 66
Lessonii, Caranx, 86
Leucopunctatus, Ophiocephalus, 146
Lieoglossus (Genus), 80
LHe, Melletta, 234
Limamurana (Genus), 249
Limbatum, Catochcenum, 160
Limbatus, Gerres, 160
Limbatus, Hemiramphus, 169
Limbatus, Plotosus, 196
Lineatum, Panchax, 221
Lineatus, Plotosus, 195
Lineatus, Polynemus, 60
Lineolatum, Cybium, 70
Lissorliynchus (Genus), 205
Literata, Lycodontis, 249
Lobata, Corviua, 55
Lobotes (Genus), 24
Lock-jaw from fish wounds, 199
Longimana, Drepane, 36
Longimanus, llarpochirus, 36
Lonyispinis, Chrysophrys, 29
Longispinis Equula, 106
Lophobrauchiate fish, Kaup, vii.
Lophobranchii (Obdee), 262
Luuaris, Tetraodon, 255
Lutodeira (Genus), 224
Lycodontis (Genus), 249
Lysan, Chorinemus, 92
Lysan, Scomber, 92
Lyzan, Chorinemus, 92

Macelellaudi, Bregmaccros,.l7l
Machnata, Argentina, 227
Machnata, Elops, 227

Macrolepidotus, Chcetodon, 33
Macrolepidotus, Diphreutes, 33
Macrolepidotus, Heniochus, 33
Macrolepidotus, Mugil, 144
Macrones (Genus), 187
Macropharyngodon (Genos), 157
Macroptera, Myliobatis, 280
Macropteronotus (Genus), 196
Maculata, Cortina, 50
Maculata, Muraena, 244
Maculata, Scia?ua, 50
Maculata, Strophidon, 249
Maculatum, Pristipoma, 21
Maculatus, Anthias, 21
Maculatus, Ch/stodon, 162
Maculatus, Etroplus, 161
Maculatus, Etroplus, 162
Maculatus, Johnius, 50
Maderaspatensis, Butirinus, 224
Maderaspatensis, Systomus, 215
Madinawa botitoo, 3
Madras, Mesopriou, 14
Maga-bosJiee, 60
Maga-jellee, 62
Magur, Clarias, 196
Magur, Macropteronotus, 197
Mahecola, Leuciscus, 215
Mahlah, 136
Mais-par all, 88
Major, Gallichthys, 90
Mackerel, Indian, xx.
Malabar Coast, v.
Malabarica, Anguilla, 244
Malabarica, Catopra, 130
Malabarica, Clupea, 239
Malabarica, Elacate, 74
Malabarica, Garra, vi, 205
Malabarica, Hara, vi, 184
Malabarica, Pempheris, 10S
Malabarica, Basbora, xxx, 220
Malabarica, Sillago, 47
Malabaricus, Bagrus, 189
Malabaricus, Engraulis, 239
Malabaricus, Gobius, 111
Malabaricus, Hypselobagrus, 189
Malabaricus, Leptocephalus, 252
Malabaricus, Leuciscus, 220
Malabaricus, Naudus, vi. 130

INDEX.

289

WaJabaricus, Olislus, so
Malabaricus, Ojuarius, 219
Malabaricus, Perilampus, 220
Malabaricus, Platycephalus, 45
Malabaricus, Si/urus, 194
Malabaricus, Trichiurus, 65
Malabaricus, Upeneus, 29
Malabaricus, "Wallago, 194
Mangalore, v.

Marginatum, Iluloeentrum, 1
Marginatus, Ophiocephalus, 150
Marginatus, Pristolepis, 13]
Marmorata, Anguilla, 244
Marmoratus, Antennarius, 121
Marmoratus, Chironectes, 121
Marmoratus, Mastacemblus, 153
Marmoratus, Nandus, 128
Mar-pus, Clarias, 197
Marpoo, 19G

Marulius, Ophiocephalus, 14G
Mastacembelid^; (Fam.), 153
Mastacemblus (Genus), 153
Mate, Caraux, 82
Matoides, Acanthurus, 126
Mauritianus, Chorinemus, 95
Mayenna, Amblyopus, 11G
McClelland, Dr. viii, xi, xxvii, 149
Megalaspis (Genus), 80
Meen kodah, ix.
Melanampyx, Laleo, 210
Meianainpyx, Puntius, 210
Melanura, Alausa, 235
Melanurus, Acronurus, 127
Melanopterus, Prionodon, 2G9
Menanopterus, Carcharias, 2G9
Melanostethos, Caranx, vi, 83
Meleagris, Etroplus, 1G1
Meletta (Genus), 234
Menoidei (Fam.), 128
Mesopbioa (Genus), 10
Micronodophis (Genus), 247
Micropdis (Genus), 2G5
Mierura, Pteroplatea, 278
Micrura, Dasyatis, 278
Mierura, Rajah, 278
Miles, Pterois, 40
Miles, Scorpana, 40
Militaris, Arius, 181

Militaris, Osteogeniosua, l8l
Militaris, Silurus, 1S1

Milk fish, 225

Mino, Ageniosus, 182

Miuo, Batraehoecphalus, 182

Minous (Genus), 42

Mitchell, Captain, 149
Mitchelli, Pseudeutropius, 191
Moadetta, Chorinemus, 95
Molucca, Pemplieris, 108
Monangoo, 239
Monodactyla, Scorpcena, 43

MONODACTTLl S (GENUS), 99

Monodactylus, Minous, 43

Monotretus (Genus), 258

Montanus, Bagrus, 189

Montanus, Ilypselobagrus, 189

Mookalee-parah, 97

Mookalec, Trachyuotus, 97

Moorghee, 195

Mootahree, 129

Morrahloo, 1GG

Morrul, 148, 1G7

Mortification from fish wounds, 278

Mud, Fish burying in, 149

Muqil( Genus), 13G

Muuilid.e (Fam.), 136

Mullah purroah, 259

Mullet, Fresh water, 144

Mullets, ix.

Munduttee, 208

Mungee Wahlah, 194

Mub^na (Genus), 244

Micrcena ( Genus), 249

MusiENEsocEs (Sub-Group), 245

MuEiENESox (Genus), 245

MuKJENiDiE (Fam.) 244

Mur^nopeides (Geoup), 249

Murcenophis (Genus), 249

Murcenopsis (Genus), 247

Muttah, 148

Mtliobatides (Geoup), 280

Nair fish, 2
Nala sandawah, 79
Nalua, Ambassis, 15
Nalua, Chanda, 15

Xaxi.id.i: (Fam.), 128
Nandus, Coius, 128
Nandus (Genus), 128
Naranari, iEtobatis, 280
Naranari, Rajah, 280
Naranari, Stoasodon, 2S0
Narcine (Genus), 275
Nasus, Ostracion, 253
Nasus, Ostracion, 254
Nat too, 237

Naucrates, Echeneis, 75
Nauceates (Genus), 72
Nebulosa, Bedula, 129
Neglectue, Gobius, 112
Nehereus, Ilarpodon, 201
Nehereus, Osmerus, 201
Neilgherry hills, xi, xiii.
Nefll, A. C. B. Esq., v, 55
Neilli, Corvina, 55
Xemachetlus (Genus), 202
Neohowii, Sardinella, viii, xxv, 230
Nebophin^: (Group), 265
Nesogallicus, Chironectes, 121
Netuma (Genus), 175
Netuma, Netuma, 175
Newill, J. Esq., v.
NieuhofF, viii.
Niger, Scomber, 74
Niger, Stromateus, 79
Night blindness, x.
Nigra, Elacate, 74
Nigra, Eleotris, 115
Nigrescens, Helicheeres, 157
Nigrescens, Platyglossus, 157
Nigripes, Caranx, 88
Nigrum, Diagramma, 23, 31
Nobilis, Lates, 2
Noonah, 243
Notata, Diacope, 8
Notata, Genyoroge, 8
Noveboracensis, Naucrates, 72
Nuchalis, Chanos, 224
Nuddee meen, 2
Nuna-mottah, 110
Nummifer, Antennarius, 121
Nummifer, Chironectes, 121
Nutchar char, 34

2 p

290

INDEX.

Oblcmga, Equula, 106
Obtusata, Spliyrsena, 65
Obtusus, Rhinobatus, 274
Oculatus, Bagrus, 1S6
Oculatus, Heinibagrus, 186
Oderic, Friar, viii.
Oil, Sardine, 230

Oil, Sharks liver, x.

Olistus (Genus), 80

Oolee perlee, 213

Ophichthts (Genus), 247

OPHIOCEPHALIDiE (Fam.), 146

Ophiocephaloidei (Fail), 146
Ophiocepiialus (Genus), xi, 146
Ophiodon, Saurus, 201
Ophisubi (Group), 247
Ophisuhoidei (Sub-Fam.), 247
Ophistemon (Genus), 250
Opsarion (Genus), 21S
Orbis, Chatodon, 35
Orbis, Ephippus, 35
Orbis, Bardies, 35
OrienUde Holocentruru, 1
Ornatisshnus, Blerpetoichthys, 247
Ornatissimus, Ophichthys, 247
Ornatum, Scyllium, 267
Ospliromenoidei (Fam.), 132
OsTEOGENIOSUS (GENUs), 18 L

Osteacion (Genus), 253
OsTitAciONnuE (Sub-Ordee), 253
Ostracionoidei (Fam.), 253
Otolithus (Genus), 56
Ova of Fish, Conveyance of, xii.
Ovatus, Gasterosteus, 97
Ovatus, Trachvnotus, 97

Paarl coorchee, 102

Paatha, 257

Pachystomus (Sub-Genus), 218

Pa-cilocephcdus (Genus), 247

Pairatalis, Chatodon, 34

Palo, bontah, 224

Pala, Chanos, 224

Pala, Cyprinus, 224

Palasah, 235

Palasah, Alausa, 235

Pallayay, 95

Pal sora, xx.

Pandoomenoo, 2
Paradanio (Gencs), 219
Paranandus (Genus), 130
Parrah perlee, 211
Parrah, Puntius, vi, xxx, 211
Pachystomus (Genus), 218
Panchax (Genus), 221
Pangasii (Sub-Geoup), 191
Pangasini (Group), 191
Para, Caranx, 85
Parrandee, 24
Parruvu, 98
Parsia, Mugil, 142
PastinaccB (Genus), 277
Pearls, False, xxviii.
Pechepierre, 58
Pedda kome, 243
Pediculati (Fam.), 121

Pelates (Genus), 17

Pellona (Genus), 231

Pempheris (Genus), 108

Pendah, 35

Peprilus (Genus), 76

PEECiDiE (Fam.), 2

Perilampus (Genus), 219

Perlee, Puntius, vi, 211

Permauls, Land of the, xiv.

Permutatus, Heniochus, 33

Peronii, Caranx, S6

Phayorus, (Genus), 196

Phaeyngognathi Acanthop-
teetgii (Sub-Ordee), 156

PnARTNGOGNATHI MaT.ACOP-

teetgii (sub-ordee), 163
Phaeyngognathi (Ordee), 156
Philypnus (Genus), 114
Phy soy aster (Genus), 255
physostomi abdominales (sub

Order), 223
Physostomi Apodes (Sub-Oeder)

244
Physostomi (Order), 175
P'undthee, 36
Pilot fish, 72

Pimiauratus, Cychcheilichthys, 209
Pinnauratus, Puntius, 209
Pisoodonopiiis (Genus), 248
Plagiostojii (Order), 267

Plagiosum, Chiloscyllium, 267
Plagiosum, Scyllium, 267
Plagusia (Genus), 174
Planiceps, Ophiocephalus, 148
Platacanthus (Genus), 204
Platax (Genus), 101
platycephalus (genus), 43
Platygaster (Genus), 231

PlATYGLOSSUS (GENUS), 157

Plebejus, Polynemus, 60

PiECTOGNATHI (ORDER), 253
Plectorhynchus (Genus), 23
Pleuranacanthus (Genus), 255
Pleueonectid^ (Fam.), 172
Ploteus, Polynemus, 60
Plotosifoemes (Sub-Fam.), 194
Plotosus (Genus), 194
Poicilus, Mugil, vi, 140
Poisonous fish, 120
Poloosoo parah, 84

POLYACANTHUS (GeNUS), xi, 134

Polynemidje (Fam.), 59
Polynemus (Genus), 59
Pomacentridje (Fain.), 156
Pomfret, Black, 79
Pomfret, Grey, 78
Pomfret, Silver, 77
Pomfret, "White, 76
Pondiceriana, Elacate, 74
Ponticerianus, Ichthyocampus, 263
Ponticerianus, Mastacemblus, 153
Ponticerianus, Typhlus, 263
Pooan, 109
Poollan, 115
Poorawah, 239

Prsetextatus, Chaatodon, x, 3 1
Preserving fish, xxviii.
Prionace (Genus), 269
Prionodon (Genus), 269
Pristibatis (Genus), 272
Pristigastek (Genus), 232
Peistipoma (Genus), 20
Pristis (Genus), 272
Peistisid^e (Group), 272
Pristis, Muramesox, 246
Pristolepis (Genus), 131
Promecocephalus (Genus), 255
Peosopodasys (Genus), 41

INDEX.

291

Psettus (Genus), 99

PsEUDEUTROPlUS (GENUS), 191

Pskudobaorus (Genus), L85
Pscudochromides (Fam.), 12S
Pscudomnrulius, Ophiocophalus, 14G
Pseuuoriiombus (Genus), 172
Pterots (Genus), xi, 38
Pulluttoy, 1G2
Punctata, Drepane, 36
Punctata, Lycodontis, 249
Punctata, Strophidon, 249
Punctata*, Cluetodon, 30
Pinicta/us, Clarias, 197
Punctatus, Gerres, 159
Piinctatus, JIarpochirus, 36
Punctatus, Ophioeephalus, 151
Punctatus, Puutius, 214
Puntius (Genus), 208
Purrandec, 100
Purroah, 3S
Purroamee, 33
Purruicah, 107
Puta, Thcrapon, 17
Puttlwo muday, 75
Puntius (Sub-Genus), 208, 214
Putter perlee, 211

Quadrifilis, Polynemus, 62
Quadiijiunctatus, Tracliynotus, 9S

Pali tee bontoo, 7

EaJitee gooliviw/a, 28

Eaije (Fam.), 275

Pales (Fam.), 275

Eajje (Sub-Order), 275

Pa n goo, 10

Eangus, Mcsoprion, 10

Paninus, Antennarius, 121

Ea sorruh, 267

Easbora (Genus), 220

Rasi, Acanthurus, 126

Eed fish, 237

Eed rice, 237

Peticulatvs, Thoerodontis, 250

Eeynaldi, Coilia, 241

Eeynaldi, Herniramphus, 167

Bhampiiobatides (Group), 273

Ehinobatides (Group), 274

Eiiinobatus (Genus), 274
Ehinobattts, Eiiinobatus, 275
Ehombeus, Monoductylus, 99
Ehombeus, Psettus, 99
Ehombus (Genus), 76
Ehynchobdelloidei (Fam.), 153
Euyncobatus (Genus), 273
Richardson, Sir John, 10, 147
Eictuosus, Apocryptes, 113
Bavaria, Forming and Stocking of.

xi
Bivulata, Diacope, 9
Eivulata, Genyoroge, 9
Eoiiita (Genus), 206
Eohitodes (Genus), 20G
Eostratus, Arius, 178
Eottleri, Caranx, 80
Eottleri Scomber, 80
Eowball, G2
Boyle on Isinglass, xxvii.

Eubellus, Mesoprion, 11
Euber, Gubioides, 118
Euber, Johnius, 57

Euber Otolithus, 57

Eubicundus, Gobioides, 116

Rubra, Scicena, 1

Euhripinnis, Cobitis, 203

Eubripinuis, Neinacheilus, xxx. 203

Eubrostigma, Aplocneilus, 221

Eubrum, Holocentrum, 1

Ruppellii, Scolopsis, 25

Eiippellii, Olistus, 89

Russell, Fishes of Coromandel, vii.

Kussellii, Platessa, 172

Russellii, Pscudorhornbus, 172

Eussellii, Trachynotus, 98

Eussellii, Trygon, 277

Eussellii, Epeneus, 29

Sable fish, 235
Saccobranchiforhes (Sub-Fam.),

198
Saccobranchus (Genus), xi, 198
Sahnee moia, 157
Salarias (Genus), 122
Salliah, Polyneinus, 62
Salmonoides, Serranus, G
Salt fish, Exports of, xvii, xviii, xix.

Salting fish, xx.

Salt, Manufactories of, xv.

Salt fish, viii.

Salt, Price of, xv, xvi.

Sancti Petri, Chorinemus, 95

Santa Cruz, Cathedral of, vi.

Sappatee, 173

Sari EullaJi, 50

Sardine oil, 230

Sardinella (Genus), 230

Saueina (Sub-Fail), 1!)'.)

Saurus, Elops, 227

Saueus (Genus), 199

Sawala, 60

Saw fish, xi.

Savala, Trichiurus, 67

Scaber, Platycepbalus, 46

Scabies, x.

Scandens, Anabas, xi, 132

Scandens, Perca, 132

SCATOPHAGUS (GeNUs), 34

Sci^na (Genus), 49
Scijenoidei (Fam.), 15G
Scoliodon (Genus?, 268
Scolopsis (Genus), 25
Scomber (Genus), 07

ScOMBERESOCIDiE (FAM.), 163

Scomberoidei (Fam.), 153
Scomberoides (Ginus), 91
Scombrtdjs (Fam.), 07
Scombrina, Alausa, 236
Scopelidje (Fam.), 199
Scopelini (Fam.), 199
Scorpion fish, 199
Sctllije (Fam.), 267
Scijris (Genus), 80
Scytalophis (Genus), 247

Securifer, Stromateus, 77

Seengtee, Pimelodus, 188

Seir fish, ix, 69, 71

SELACHII (SUB-CLASS), 207

Selar (Genus), 80

Selaroides (Genus), 80

Sele, Polynemus, 60

Sent, Caranx, S6

Semiluctuosa, Corvina, 53

Semisagittatus, Prist is, x, 272

Semisagittatus, Squalus, 272

292

IXDEX.

Sephen, Hypolophus, xxviii, 279
Sephen, Rajah, 279
Serradentata, Mura?nesox, 246
Seeranus (Genus), 2
Serrata, Fistularia, 152
Servus, Therapon, 18
Seserinus (Genus), 76
Setipinna (Genus), 236
Setipinna (Sub-Genus), 237
Setosus, Gobius, 112
Sexfasciatus, Serranus, 2
Sextarius, Polynemus, 60
Shacra (Genus), 218
Shad, 235
Shagreen, 280

Shark, Hammer-headed, xi, 271
Sharks, x.

Sidera (Genus), 249
Siffanus (Genus), 123
Sihama, Atherina, 47
Sihama, Sillago, 47
Sillago (Genus), 47
Sillaoo, 12

Sillaoo, Mesoprion, 12
Silueidje (Sub-Oedee), x, 175

SlLUEIFOEMES (SuB-FaM.), 192

Silueini (Geoup), 192

Silver Pomfret, 77

Simulans, Tetraodon, 256

Siua, Corvina, 52

Siua, Scisena, 52

Sinensis, Stromateus, 76

Singio, Saccobranchus, x, 198

Singio, Silurus, 198

Skin, Fish, xxviii.

Society of London, Proceedings of,

v.
Solenoslomus (Genus), 152
Somnolentus, Lobotes, 24
Soring, 47
Sowarah, 146
SpHTEiENA (Genus), 63
Sphybjenidj: (Fam.), 63
Spinosus, Anabas, 132
Splendens, Equula, 104
Speciosus, Caranx, 84
Speciosus, Scomber, 84
Spicifer, Syngnatlius, 204

Speatella (Genus), 233
Squali (Sur-Obdee), 267
Squatinoraies (Fam.), 271
Squatinoeaijoid.t: (Fam.), 271
Stenometopus (Genus), 255
Striatus, Ophiocephalus, 148
Stromateus, Apolectus, 79
Steomateus (Genus), 76
Strophidon (Genus), 249
Subrostratus, Arius, 177
Subviridis, Mugil, 138
Sudi sandawah, 78
Suillus, Serranus, 6
Sundanensis, Mugil, 138
Suppositus, Mugil, 143
Suppositus, Platycephalus, 46
Suratensis, Cheetodon, 161
Suratensis, Etroplus, 161
Surinamensis, Holocent.rus, 24
Surinamensus, Lobotes, xxvii, 24
Sutor, Amphacanthus, 126
Sutor, Teuthis, 126
Sykes, Fishes of the Dulchau, viii.
Sykesii, Pseudeutropius, 191
Sykesii, Schilbe, 191
Synageis (Genus), 26
Stnaptura (Genus), 173
Synbeanchid^: (Fam.), 250
Synbranchini (Geoup), 250
Synbeanchoidei (Sub-Fam.), 250
Synbranchus (Genus), 250
Syngnathidjj (Fam.), 262, 263
Syngnathina (Geoup), 263
Syngnathus (Genus), 264
Synistius (Genus), 158
Synonyms adopted, xxx.
Systomus (Genus), 208
Ststomi (Geoup), 208

Tcenioplis (Genus), 249

Tola bon, 246

Tola, Chorinemus, 93

Tala parah, 93

Tahorvah, 14

Tamarind fish, ix, 2, 72

Tanks, Stocking with fish, xi.

Tartoore, 232

Tartoore, Pristigaster, 232

Taty, Eugraulis, 240
Taurichlhys (Genus1, 32
Tchawil parah, 89
Teira, Cheetodon, 101
Teira, Plata x, 101
Telabon, Conger, 246
Telabon, Muranesox, 24(i
Telaea (Sub-Genus), 237
TELEOSTEI(STJB-CLASSj, 1
Telia sandawa, 77
Tengara, Hypselobagrus, 189
Tengara, Macrones, 1S9
Tengara, Pnnelodus, 189
Tengijara, Bayrus, 189
Tenkee kunsul, 278
Tennent, Sir Emerson, 3, 14, 128
Teria, Polynemus, 62
Tepa, Tetrodon, 255
Tesserula, Ostraeium, 253
Testudineus, Crayraeion, 257
Testudineus, Tetraodon, 257
Tetrabranchus (Genus), 25U
Tetradactylus, Polynemus, 62
Tetragonus, Ostracion, 254
Teteaodon (Genus), x, 255
Tetbaodontifoemes (Sub-Faat),

255
Teteaodontini (Geoup), 255
Teteaodontoidei (Fam.), 255
Tetbaboge (Genus), 41
Tetrodon, (Genus), 258
Tetrosomus (Genus), 253
Teuthididje (Fam.), 123
Teuthis (Genus), 123
Teuthyes (Fam.), 123, 126
Thcerodontis (Genus), 249
Teeeapon (Genus). 17
Theraps, Therapon, 19
Therrundee, 280
Thrissa (Genus), 236
Thyrsoidea (Genus), 249
Tile, Gymnothorax, 249
Tile, Murcena, 249
Tile, Murcenophis, 249
Tile, Thyrsoidea, 249
Tol, Chorinemus, 93
Tol, Chorinemus, 95
Toli, Alausa, 235

INDEX.

29;

TolparraJt. 93
Tombil, Saurida, 2G0

Toolee, 207

Tooloo, Chorinemus, '.»<;

Toolooparalt, 96

Torpedines (Group), 275

To««A fawwA, 103

Toxotes (Genus), 37

Trachinotus (Genus), 96

Traciitnotus (Genus), 90

Telecanthus (Genus), 2G0
Triangularis, Nemacheilus, vi, 203
Teicuiuhidj: (Fam.), 65
Teichiueus (Genus), xx, 65
Tricliosoma (Genus), 241
Trichosomus (Genus), 211
Trigonobatus (Genus), 277
Trispinosus, Batrachus, 120
Tridentifer, Hemiramphus, 16S
Triurus (Genus), 199
Trivittatus, Cuius, 17
Trivittatus, Therapon, 17
Trout, Hill, 206
Trout, Introduction of, xi, xiii.
Trtpauchen (Genus), 118
Trygon (Genus), 277
Tbtgones (Group), 277
Tunibil, Salmo, 200
Tuinbil, Saurida, 200

Uarnak, Rajah, 277
Uarnak, Trygon, iv, 277
Umbrina (Genus), 48
TTndee eollee, 132
TJndulatus, Marmoratus, 153
TJnibranchapertura (Genus), 250
Unimaculatus, Mesoprion, 11
Unipertura (Genus), 250

Upeneoides (Genus), 27
Upencus (Genus), 27
Upeneus (Genus), lis
Uranoscopus (Genus), 46
Uranostoma (Genus), 255
Uraspis (Genus), 80
Uronemus, Polynemus, 61

Vacti, Coins, 2

Vagina, Gobius, 118

Vagina, Trypauchen, 118

Valenciennea (Genus), 114

Vuriegata, Anguilla, 244

Variegatus, Trygon, 277

Telia arwoolee, 76

Vella chenibolay, 8

Vella oodoo, 98

Verarl, 148

Venomous wounds from fish, x.
Vermieulata, Teuthis, 123
Vermiculatus, Amphacanthus, 123
Vermiculatus, Teuthis, 123
Viridi-punetatus, Gobius, 110
Viridipunctatus, Leiodon, 258
Vittatus, Aplocheilus, 221
Vittatus, Mullus, 27, 28
Vittatus, Puntius, vi, 215
Vittatus, Upeneoides, 27, 28
Vizagapatam, vii.
Volitans, Gasterosteus, 38
Volitans, Pterois, 38
Volitans, Scorpana, 38, 40

Wahlah, 193, 223

Wahlah kuddera, 105
Waigiensis, Mugil, 141
JValawali tenkee, 273
Wallago (Genus), 192

Wallagoo, L93
Wallagoo, Silurus, 193
Wuna mol/tt, 201
Wartee poolan, 109
Whitebait, 136, 237
White Mullet, 225
White Pom fret, 70
Whiting, 48
fVingevaut, 71
Wblga tenkee, 279
Woodan, 159
Woodau-ahah, 159
Woora, Corylhobatus, 43
Woora, Minous, 13
Woorah Minoo, 43
Woragoo, 80
Wordkwah, 125
Wutiin parah, 86
Wrald, 148

WraJil, Ophiocephalu-. L18
Wunnuttee, 134
Wumboo, 217

Xanthopterin, Hemiramphus, 16S
Xantlmrus, Caranx, 82
Xiphochilus (Sub-Fam), 157

Yah fa, 272

Yeta, xxv.

Toul, James A., Esq., xii, xiii.

Zoology, Illustrations of Indian,

149
Zygaena, Cestraciou, 270
Zyycena (Genus), 27U
Zygaena, Sphyrna, 270
Zygaena, Sphyrnias, 270
Zyga?na, Squalus, 270

FINIS.

G. KOEMAN, PRINTER, MAIDEN LANE, COVERT GARDEN.

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