^, s^. .aat quality poaaibia conaidaring tha condition and lagibiiity of tha original copy and in kaaping with tha filming contract apacif icationa. L'axamplaira film* f ut raproduit grica i la g4n*roait* da: BibliotMqiM Morimt Univarsiti d'Ottawa Las imagaa suivantaa ont At* raproduitas avac la plus grand soin, ccmpta tanu da la condition at da la nattatA da l'axamplaira film*, at an conformiti avac las conditions du contrat da filmaga. / LiAes Original copias in printad pafMr covara ara filmad beginning with tha front cover and ending on the laat page with a printad or illustrated impres- sion, or the back cover when appropriate. All other original copias are filmed beginning on the first page with a printad or illustrated imprea- sion, and ending on the last page with a printad or illuatratad impreaslon. Las exemplaires originaux dont la couverture en papier est ImprimAe sent fiimis en commen^ant par la premier plat at en terminant soit par la darnlAre page qui comporte une emprelnte d'impression ou d'iliustration. soit par la second plat, salon le cas. Tous las autres exemplaires originaux sont filmAs en commenpant par la pramlAre page qui comporte une emprelnte d'impression ou d'iliustration at en terminant par la darnlAre page qui comporte une telle emprelnte. The laat recorded frame on eech microfiche shall contain the symbol ^»> (meaning "CON- TINUED"), or the symbol y (meaning "END"), whichever applies. Un des symboles suivents apparaTtra sur la darniAre image de cheque microfiche, selon le cas: le symbols — ^ signifie "A 8UIVRE". le symbols ▼ signifie "FIN". ire Mapa, plataa, charts, etc., may be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too large to be entirely included in one exposure ara filmad beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right and top to bottom, aa many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Les cartes, plenches, tableeux, etc., peuvent Atre filmAs A des taux de rAduction diff Arents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seul clichA, il est filmA A partir da I'angia aupAriaur gauche, de gauche A droite, et de haut an bas, an prenant le nombre d'imagas nAcessaira. lies diagrammes suivents illustrent la mAthoda. y errata Id to nt ne pelure, 1900 A 1 2 3 ax , t 9 4 8 6 •< V \«*^: FISi DESCRirTIVE CATALOGUE OF THE FISHES OF. XJ- o. SCOTIA, i .< ■' By THOMM, I*:* AUTHOB OF "NOVA SCOTIA AND UEB BESOUBCES." (Prize Eabat.) (B man mtrces. /7 '-^ FUBLISHEI) BT DIBEOTIOV OF THE FBOVIKOIAL OOVEBNMENT. HALIFAX, N. S. PRINTED BY A. GRANT, rBUrXKB TO XHX qUBKN'S MOST BXCBLUtMT XAJMrf 1866. ■0 V K' ^ ' A ■ ■ 1 1 \ I'M ■r 111 ■ • :1i/„ 31 •HtT \ A This br form one c all their a The succe permit — i discharginj This Cal in our wafc species, tha not been The ne: embracing fisheries ii by the Bri Halifa *J PREFACE. This brief treatise on the fishes of Nova Scotia is intended to form one of a series of papers on the Fisheries of Nova Scotia, in all their aspects, historical, economical, commercial, and political. The succeedmg papers will be published as circumstances will permit — the ordinary hours of labour being wholly occupied in discharging the responsible duties of a public officer. This Catalogue is intended to include the fishes known to exist in our waters. There are doubtless many other varieties, and even species, that have never been seen beyond their habitats, and have not been brought to the notice of the naturalist. The next topic will be " The Shore and Deep Sea Fisheries," embracing, besides those on the coast of Nova Scotia, the valuable fisheries in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, which are enjoyed in common by the British North American Provinces. • I I ."i; i w n * in m i icf M Haufax, N. S., October, 1866. r m >^ WORKS CONSULTED IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS CATALOGUE. THE A17IMAL KIXGDOH. By IlAROir CuviVR and 1'. A. Latreille. FISHES OF NEW YORK. By Dr. J. E. DsKat. ZOOLOGY, (FISHES). By W. B. Carpester, F.R.S. DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE OF FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA ANI> NEW BRUNSWICK. By M. H. Perlet, Esq. AMERICAN ANGLERS' BOOK. Norrib. TRANSACTIONS OF INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE OF NOVA SCOTIA. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS ON BRITISH AMERICAN FISHERIES. "Fish branchijE, Until was that liar stud ology foi by one p furnish a fishes in tions, in been pro] fossils wi; ralists. Cuvier the Cart groups u: to, the pi the natui by adopti fishes are Miiller ac classeSy b These or( gills are ration ps number head. NOIDEI, 01 the ord' III. Teli .jaws, aiK cartilagiiJ FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. 1 DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. "Fishes are defined as vertebrated arimals, with red blood; breathing by branchifc, or gills, through the medium of water." — Perley. Until recently the classification of fishes most generally received, was that of Cuvier, who made this department of Zoology his pecu- liar study. After maintaining its ground as the system of ichthy- ology for many years, this classification has been improved upon by one proposed by Professor Miiller, of Berlin, which is said to furnish a much better means of arraying the numerous species of fishes in natural groups ; and this is adopted, with some modifica- tions, in the present catalogue. A system still more modern has been proposed by Professor L. Agassiz, in which he seeks to unite fossils with living species, but this system is not accepted by natu- ralists. Cuvier divided fishes into two great classes, viz. : the Bony, and the Cartilaginous. These again he subdivided into distinctive groups under each class. In the system of Miiller, above referred to, the primary division of the class of fishes, in accordance with the nature of the skeleton, is done away with, as it is found that, by adopting this as the first point in clap'^Ification, nearly allied fishes are often widely separated. The cias Ification of Professor Miiller admits of five primary groups of fishes, which he calls mh- classeSy but which naturalists have agreed to regard as orders. These orders are — I. Selachii, including the Sharks and Kays ; the gills are fixed, and the water which has been made use of in respi- ration passas out through a series of openings corresponding in number to the gills, and placed on the sides at the back of the head. The skeleton in these is always cartilaginous. II. Ga- NOiDEi, or Enamelled Fishes, in which the gills are free, like those of the ord'nary fishes, and concealed by an operculum, or cover. III. Teleostei, or Bony Fishes, witli a bony skeleton, complete jaws, and free branchiae. IV. Cyclostomi, or Lampreys, with a cartilaginous skeleton, no true jaws, a round suckmg mouth, and '^* r.j *• -.1 \f' 6 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. sac-likc brancliial organs, opening by a series of small holes on each side behind the head. V. Leptocardii, or Lancet Fishes^ whicli includes only a single small species. The third order which comprises the greatest number of species he mihdivides into six primary groups. These are, — A. Plectog- NATHi, in which the bones of the upper jaw and face are firmly attached to, or amalgamated with, those of the skull. B. Lopho- BRANCHii, with the branchial filaments arranged in little tufts along branchial arches, and the face produced into a long snout. C. AcANTHOPTERi, with spinous rays in the anterior part of the dorsal fin, or in the first dorsal when there are more than one, and the inferior pharyngeal bones distinct. The air bladder, when present, is completely closed. D. Pharyngognathi, in which the inferior pharyngeal bones are completely amalgamated, and usually armed with teeth. The air bladder is closed. E. Anacanthini, with no spinous rays in the fins, and a completely closed air-bladder. F. Physostomi, with soft fin-rays, except the first in the dorsal, anal, and pectoral fins, which are occasionally spinous ; and an air-blad- der which communicates with the pharynx by an open duct. Fishes belonging to the first group of the order Teleostei, are not found in our waters ; and only three specimens of the second (which embraces a single family) have been met with. The classification here referred to and explained, it will be un- derstood, applies to the more general division, as orders, groups, and, in some cases, the families ; the genera and species agreeing for the most part with those of Cuvier, except those species which are peculiar to North America, and to which the writer has at- tached the name of the naturalist who has categorized them. It may be necessary to explain to the unscientific reader that the name applied to each fish (printed in italics) includes both the genus and species : e. g., Sahno Salar, Lin. (the Salmon), the first word Salmo is the genus, the second word Salar indicates the ipecies, and so of all the rest. For the descriptions of the fishes, their haunts, habits, &c., the writer is largely indebted to the late Mr. Perley's excellent catalogue, prepared with much care from a perusal of the best authorities and from personal observation. They are, however, wholly re-written, much condensed, and a more systematic arrangement of the material is attempted. There are also some additions to the list. Descri t This it is kn names pursues devour! taken ol It is a g in its at make tli Descrip The visits th was cap pursuit and whi Theb of remai less, as coasts sun-fish, with its suggestE Serpent. DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. loles on Fishes, ' species 'lectog- e firmly LOPHO- fts along out. C. \G dorsal and the present, I inferior ly armed , with no Ider. F. •sal, anal, L air-blad- )en duct. I, are not id (which ill be un- 3, groups, 3 agreeing lies which or has at- them. It [• that the i both the ), the first licates the the fishes, ;o the late are from a bservation. ind a more There are Order I. — Selachii ; Group. — Squauna. Family. — CARCHARiDiB. 1. Carcharias Vulpea, Cuv. (The Thresher Shark.) Description. — First dorsal triangular, a foot high, and nearly as long as its base ; the pccond dorsal similar in shape, but much smaller, its tail long, broad, and flexible, with which it attacks, and literally threshes its enemies. It is of a slate-blue color above ; beneath, soiled white, marked with faint bluish spots. It sometimes attains the length of twelve feet. This shark is said to be common on both sides of the Atlantic ; it is known from New York northwardly by the various popular names of the " thresher," " fox shark," and " swingle tail." It pursues schules of mackarel, moss-bonkers, and shad, which it devours in great numbers. In pursuit of shad it is frequently taken of large size, both in Cumberland Bay and Basin of Minas. It is a great enemy to the small whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence ; in its attacks causing the whale to spring quite out of water, and make the sea foam from the torment he endures. Family. — Lamnid^. 1. SelachuB maximus, Cuv. (The Basking Shark). Description. — Body cylindrical, fusiform, the surface with numerous wrinkles, covered with minute sharp prickles, distributed in small groups. The teeth in the upper jaws, of various forms, recurved, edged, but not serrated ; in the lower jaw, seven rows, rather longer than those above. There are said to be fourteen hundred teeth in the lower jaw alone. It is of a dark slate color, and usually exceeds thirty feet in length. The basking shark inhabits the northern seas, but occasionally visits the American coast during summer. In August 1851, one was captured in the Bay of Fundy, forty feet in length. While in pursuit of herring, it became entangled in a string of herring nets, and while so entangled, was killed after a long and severe struggle. The basking shark has obtained its popular name from its habit of remaining occasionally at the surface of the water, quite motion- less, as if enjoying the influence of the sun's rays, whence on the coasts of Great Britain and Ireland, it has obtained the name of sun-fish. Its large size, and habit of swimming near the surface, with its upper jaw projecting out of the water, has, it is supposed, suggested to the credulous, the idea of the monster called the Sea Serpent. ■a . '•'■' '.■'■is *? if 8 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. Family. — Spinacid^. 1. Spinax aeanthnSf Cuv. (The Spinous Dog-fish.) Description. — It varieH in length from one to five feet ; is of a slate color above, dull white beneath ; and is distinguishod by several rows of small trenchant teeth, and bj a strong spine before each dorsal. This fish is found everywhere on the coast of North America, from the Delaware to Davis' Straits. In Nova Scotia and Cape Breton it is dried in great quantities, and in the winter is fed to pigs, which are said to thrive well upon it. The livers furnish a valuable oil. It is viviparous. Order I. — Selachii; Group.— Raiina. Family. — Raiid^. 1. Baia Icevis, Mitch. (The Skate.) Description. — It is of square form; the body smooth, elevated in the centre ; of a uniform light brown color above ; the tail long and slender, larger than the body, with three rows of spines. It is found from two to four feet long. It is oviparous. The skate is found everywhere on the coasts of Nova Scotia, and is frequently taken of large size, with hook and line, by cod-fishers. Its peculiar form adapts it to exist near the bottom; it swims with a slightly undulating motion of its pectoral fins, something between flying and swimming. It feeds principally on Crustacea, which it crushes between its flattened teeth. Its flesh is not held in estimation as an article of food, as it is in Europe. Order II. — Ganoidei. Family. — AciPENSERiDiE. 1. Accipenser oxyainchuSy Mitch. (Sharp-nosed Sturgeon.) Description. — Body pentagonal ; skin rough ; the head flattened above, and slightly depressed between the eyes. The whole upper portion of the head bony ; the head elongated, spatuliform, and covered with strong bony shields, roughened above and beneath. The upper part of the body is of a grayish brown colour ; inferior portion of the sides, silvery ; beneatli, white. Mouth, beneath, purse shape, with thick folded lips. Length from two to eight feet. The sturgeon is found in the harbors on the Atlantic coast, and in the Bay of Fundy. It prefers soft and muddy bottoms. It spawns in fresh water, before leaving it in the autumn, to return to the sea. It is said to spend the winter in very deep water, quite DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. late color rows of trsal. Lmcrica, id Cape s fed to irnish a 3d in the long and t id found otia, and d-fishers. it swims )mething rustacea, not held ;eon.) led above, >er portion vrered with upper part ion of the bape, with oast, and toms. It to return iter, quite bejond the reach of nets, and as it has not been known to take a hook, is quite safe from the fishermen. The flesh of the sturgeon is like coarse beef, quite firm and compact, but very rank and un- savoury. Order III. — Teleostei ; Group. — Lophobranchii. Family. — SYNONATHiDiE. 1. Hippocampus brevirostria, Storcr. (The short-nosed Sia-horse.) Description. — Body of twelve segments, heptangular, protuberant, with three rows of tubercular points formed by the junction of the plates on each side, and a single row beneath; the tubercular points be- come more elevated at the place of the dorsal fin. Jaw tubular, straight, cleft at the extremity. A short tubercle at the base of the jaw above, and connected by an elevated crest to a distinct spine over each eye. On the summit of the head, a large bony protuber- ance, terminating in five distinct points. The oval branchial aper- tures behind this protuberance. Nostrils double, round, immedi- ately anterior to the eyes. Eyes prominent. Anal (in the female) with three rays. Tail longer than the body, quadrangular, ending in a blunted point, finless, and composed of thiiiy-two segments. Color, light brown, with iridescent opercles. Irides, yellow. Length, three to six inches. This singular fish is chiefly interesting to the naturalist, because of the peculiarities of its organization. By its prehensile tail it is enabled to climb or hold on by the stalks of marine plants. It is only in the dead specimen that the neck acquires the peculiar bend, which gives its head the resemblance to that of a horse, from which its name is derived. It is a tish of warm latitudes, as there are several allied species to be found in the Indian Ocean. It is doubtless exotic, as three specimens only have been found in Nova Scotia. Order III. — Teleostei ; Group. — Acanthopteri. Family. — TRiGLiDis. 1. Cottus Virginianus, Stor. (The common Bullhead.) 2. Cottua Groenlandicusy Cuv. (The Greenland Bullhead.) Description. — In the common sculpin the head is broad, equal to one- third the length of the body, and furnished with spines. Mouth large; eyes large, with prominent orbits. The body diminishes gradually from the head, and becomes compressed towards the tail. The Groenlandicus has a great angular area on the head, bounded by four tubercles. Color, dark brown, blotched, or marbled with green and yellow. Length twelve to eighteen inches. •Wh SBHS 10 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. The sculpin is very numerous on all the fishing grounds of the Nova Scotia coasts, and is sometimes a great annoyance to line- fishcrs, who regard it with much aversion. When freshly taken from the water, and irritated, it presents rather a formidable ap- pearance. It is exceedingly voracious, devouring small fish, crabs, and sea-eggs. Besides the two species named, it is believed that there are several other species, as well as some varieties. 3. Sebastes Xorveyieus, Cuv. (The Norway Haddock.) Description. — Body oblong, compressed, covered with scales. All the upper part of the body and the tins of a bright carmine red ; darker upon the head and back, lighter upon the sides ; nearly white be- neath ; a brown blotch on tlie posterior part of the opercle. Length of the head from top of lower jaw when closed, to posterior angle of operculum, one-third the length of the fish ; top of the head flattened Eyes very large ; pupils blacK ; irides yellow ; diameter of eye equal to one-third the length of the head. Jaws armed with numerous, minute, sharp teeth; upper jaw protractile ; chin prominent; teeth in vomer and palatine bones. ^ '•ngth, two feet. This is a northern fish, common to ooth sides of the Atlantic ; on the coast of North America it has been found as far south as New York, wiicre, however, it is very rare. Among fishermen, it is known by the popular names of " red sea perch," " the rose fish," and " the snapper." Mr. Perley believes it to exist along the coast of Nova Scotia, whither it wanders from the north. It is found abundantly on the coast of Newfoundland. It feeds on flounders and other small fish, and takes the hook readily. In Norway, it is eaten largely, being considered a great delicacy. In the deep bays on the southern coast of Greenland, it is caught in great numbers, on baited hooks attached to very long linos. The Grcenlanders use the spines for needles. 4. Gasterosteus Maciileatus, Mitch. (Two-spincd Stickleback.) Descrh'TION. — About two inches in length, with two distant spines on the back, and n third near the dorsd; and a strong serrated :^)ine on each side, representing the vcntrals. This diminutive fish abounds in those creeks of Nova Scotia to which tlie sea has access. It is exceedingly active in its move- ments, and will throw itself a considerable distance out of water. Its appetite is voracious ; it feeds on worms and insects, and tlie fry and roo of other fish, great quantities of which it devours. The M DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 11 s of the to line- \y taken able ap- h, crabs, ^ed that All the I; darker white be- Length ' angle of flattened eye equal luinerous, nt ; teeth ntic ; on as New m, it is se fish," he coast Is found ounders 'ay, it is 30}) bays umbers, dors use Jack.) •a on the :i>ine on cotia to s luove- f water, and the 8. The gasterostei are very pugnacious, and when confined will destroy each other. They are only worthy of notice on account of their destructive propensities, and because they are sometimes used as bait for larger fisii. Family. — PERCiDiE. 1. Pt'rcaflave8cen8,C\i\. (The American Yellow Perch.) Descriptiok. — Of a greenish yel'.ow above, with golden yellow sides, crofised by seven transverse dark bands, the broadest upon the mid- dle of the body ; beneath, white. The back and tail fins brownish ; the other fins, scarlet. Length six to twelve inches. The common yellow perch is considered one of the best known, and most widely distributed of all the fresh water fishes of North America. It is common in almost all the inland waters of Nova Scotia. It is very closely allied to the perca Jluviatilis of Europe ; and, like that fish, is much esteemed by those who cannot obtain salt water species. It is readily transported from one lake, or stream, to another. The general habitat of the perch is in lakes and streams, not too rapid. It delights in a clear bottom, with grassy margin, or in rivers overhung with brush, and widening into some lake-like expanse. Here the perch roam in shoals, descend- ing .and rising wliile seeking their food, and shading themselves from the too great heat among the aquatic plants, or under the broad leaves of the white water lily. 2. Lahrax Lineatus, Cuv. (The Striped Bass.) Description. — Body cylindrical and tapering, covered with large adhesive scales ; u|)per part of the body silvery brown ; lower ]v\r{ of sidea and abdomen, a beautiful clear silver color; eight or more longitudi- nal black bands running the \ -hole length of the fish, the lower ones terminating above the anal fin. Length, one to three feet. The bass is a salt water fish, ascending fresh water streams to breed in the si)ring, and for shelter during winter. It is not very abundant in Nova Scotia ; but is found in the Basin of Minas, the Basin rf Annapolis, and in the rivers which flow into the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Along the shores of the Saint Lawrence, they often make their appearance in large schulcs in the early part of Septonibcr. They keep around tlje islands, and between the outer bar and the beach in the lagoons, where tlicy are often taken in nets, and also at nigiits with torch and spear. As the season '■■^ 1. im& 1 y-li h f ■ !i .'4 If 12 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. I- advances, and the weather becomes colder they penetrate into bays and arms of the sea, and even ascend the rivers some distance, where they spend the winter resting on the mud, in a half torpid state. After the salmon family, it is the best sporting fish of Ame- rica. It will take the same artificial fly (scarlet ibis and gold) as is used in salt water for the white or sea trout. It is excellent food, the flesh being very firm, white, and well flavoured. 3. Labrax pallidus, Mitch. (The Little White Bass.) Descbiption. — Body compressed, small, light bluish above, and paler be- neath ; sides and abdomen white. Base of the ventral and anal fins faint pinkish. First ray of the posterior dorsal nearly iis long as the second. A few irregular horizontal bands along the sides perceptible after it has been some little time out of the water. Length three to five inches. This diminutive bass is best known by its popular name of •' white perch." It abounds in the numerous lakes of Nova Scotia, and may bo taken with bait or fly. It is always found in localities where there is very little current, if any, and upon a soft bottom, in the vicinity of aquatic plants and weeds. The ordinary weight of the " white perch" is from four to six ounces ; in September they are often taken above a half a pound in weight : they arc very fine fish for the table, when in season. 4. Pomotis vulgaris, Cuv. (The common Pond-fish.) Descrh'TION. — The pomotis is of a deep green color, mixed with olive, and is easily distinguished by the bright scarlet spot behind the opercle. It is generally from six to eight inches in length. This description of perch is very common in all those waters in which the yellow perch is found. Among rural anglers it is known as the " sun-fish," from the glittering colors it displays while basking in the sun. It is seldom dressed for eating, being an ex- ceedingly bony, dry fisl\, but is often caught for amusement. Family. — Sparid^e. 1. Pagi-us argyrops, Cuv. (Big Porgcc.) Description. — Body much compressed, gibbons above. Scales large, ad- herent, rounded behind, finely denticulated. Lateral line elevated ; facial line sloping, slightly arched over the orbits. Nostrils double, the posterior transversely oval ; the nntcrior nostrils round. Kyes large. JNIouth with thick lips, protractile. Upper jaw with six large blunt teeth ; ou the sides of the jaw two series of Hat crowned DESCRIPTIVE CATALOaUE. 13 molar teeth. Lower jaw with ten large front teeth. Dorsal fin commences above the base of the pectorals. Pectorals pointed, very branchial. Ventrals robust. Anal fin in a furrow, with three spi- )us and eleven branchial rays. Caudal fin deeply lunated, rather han forked. Color, deep brownish black on the top of the head, passing into light brown towards the snout. Nape and sides bril- liant green, with golden reflections. Irides silvery. A black spot at the upper angle of the opercle ; another just above the base of the pectoral fin. Pectorals light yellow. Length, twelve inches. This fish is seldom found north of Cape Cod. About the year 1833, an attempt was made to introduce them into the waters north of the Cape, but with no success, the water proving too cold to enable them to breed there. The only authority that the writer possesses as to their existence on the coast of Nova Scotia, is the " Official Circular" from Mr. Gidney, the Collector of Sandy Cove, in which it is stated that porgies are occasionally seen in Sf. Mary's Bay. If they are the true porgies they have probably strayed from a warmer latitude in pursuit of food. In the United States, where it is found in great abundance, it is considered of excellent flavour, and if less abundant would be highly prized. It is im- ported in a prepared state into Nova Scotia, and extensively used by our fishermen as bait for mackerel and cod. Family. — ScoMBEBiDiE. 1. Scomber vemalis, Mitch. (The Spring Mackerel.) 2. Scomber grex, Mitch. (The Fall Mackerel.) Description. — ^Body fusiform, cylindrical, its greatest depth near the ulti- mate rays of the first dorsal. The first dorsal rises over the ventrals, longer than high, and contains thirteen simple and slender rays ; ihe first somewhat shorter than the second, which is the longest ; thence gradually to the last, which is concealed in a deep and narrow fissure, extending backward about a fourth of an inch. Pectorals moderate, acute. Five equidistant finlets behind the anal. Caudal fin deeply forked. Eyes large, nostrils single, nearly equidistant between the eyes and the end of the nose. Tongue pointed, dis- tinct and black. Color, dark steel-blue above, becoming lighter on the sides, and mixed with metallic green near the lateral line. From 24 to 30 vertical deep blue half-bands, oHen waved, inter- rupted, and occasionally forming irregular circles. LengUi 16 to 18 inches. The Scomber grex, though with some minor differences, is scarcely distinguishable from che preceding; indeed it is doubtful whether it really is a different species, although Cuvier considered it as different, and he '^ followed in this opinion by Drs. Mitchell and DeKay. The Scomber vemalii is the ordinary mackerel of commerce. t 5 h ' -f ;'): '%■ 4 ,^ t 1: FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. The mackerel frequents the whole Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia ; and is abundant on the Gulf coast of Cape Breton. The mackerel fishery of Nova Scotia composes one of its .argest exports. In 1865 the export of mackerel from Nova Scotia reached in round numbers the large quantity of 150,000 barrels, realizing perhaps $1,000,000. Captain Fortin estimates the quantity of mackerel taken by American fishermen on the British coast of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence at 50,000 barrels, — one-third only of the quantity taken by fishermen of Nova Scotia. This fact proves how valuable a branch of industry is contained in the fisheries of the British North American Colonies ; and it suggests the adoption of such measures as may secure to the Colonies their natural right to it. It is now considered settled, that the mackerel is not a migratory fish, but draws oflf into deep water at the approach of winter, and returns to the shallow water near the shores at the beginning of summer, for the purpose of depositing its spawn. »» 3. Thynnus vulgaris, Cuv. (The common Tunny.) Description. — It is characterised by very large and long pectoral fins ; the tail is crescent-shaped, very wide across the tips. The rays of the first dorsal are very strong, shutting into a deep groove, and, when unexpanded, is perfectly invisible. The scales on the back, in front of the first dorsal, and beneath the pectorals, are very large. Gill-covers exceedingly large, perfectly smooth, of a silvery gray color. The jaws when closed are nearly equal ; the tongue large and broad ; the gape of the mouth very large. The upper surface of the body is blackish; the sides, silvery; beneath, white. No colored lines or spots ; tongue and inside of the mouth black. Irides golden, with greenish rofiections. Length from six to twelve feet. This fish is known by its popular name of " horse-mackerel," and " albicore." It is frequently taken on the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia, enclosed in the seine with mackerel. It is very dest'-uctive to the nets, and sometimes causes the loss of all the other iish in them. The tunny is considered to be a wanderer from more south- ern latitudes. It is a common fish in the Mediterranean, and has been known and celebrated from the remotest period of antiquity. In Sicily it forms one of the most considerable branches of the oommerce of the Island. In France it is much used, and is cooked in a variety of ways. In America its flesh is not held in esti- mation. DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 15 1 " and 4. Xiphias gladius, Linn. (The Sword-fish.) Description. — Back and upper part of the sides of a sky-blue color ; be- neath, silvery grey ; surface smooth. The dorsal fin in the young fish is single ; in the adult it becomes effaced in the middle, and forms two distinct fins. The upper jaw is prolonged into a flattened sword ; the edges, bluntly trenchant, approach each other, and ter- minate in a blunt point. The lower jaw is short and pointed ; the gape of the mouth extends behind the orbits. It has no teeth ; but slight asperities may be felt on the lower jaw, and velvet-like teeth in the throat. The tail, hke that of the tunny, is crescent-shaped, with 17 rays. Length, from ten to fifteen feet. This fish is met witli along the Atlantic coast of North America. It is usually discovered by the projection of its dorsal fin above the surface of the water, when in pursuit of mackerel, upon which it feeds. They are taken by means of an instrument called a " liiy- iron," from the form of its shaft, or wings, which resemble the leaves of a lily. This instrument is thrown like a harpoon, with great force into the fish, the attempt being always made to strike it in front of the dorsal fin. On the coast of the United States the flesh of the sword-fish is eaten both fresh and salted. Before being pickled, the flesh is cut into slices, and it is said to remain good for a year ; in Massachusetts several hundred barrels are put up annually. The greatest number of them are taken ofl* Martha's Vineyard. The sword-fish has been frequently seen off the Atlan- tic coast of Nova Scotia, but it is seldom taken. 5. Mhombua triacanthuSj DeKay. (The Snort-finned Harvest Fish.) Description. — Body eliptical, much compressed ; its height one half of its length nearly. Scales small, orbicular, caducous. Along the back, on each side of the base of the dorsal fin, is a series of round holes, the orifices of mucous ducts. Eyes large. Nostrils double ; the posterior a vertical slit. A single series of minute crowded teeth in both jaws. Fine crowded teeth on the pharyngeal. Tongue large, spotted, smooth, free. The dorsal fin has three spinous, and forty- five rays. Pectorals long and pointed. A moveable spine anterior to pectorals, and another spine or plate occupying the place of the ventrals. Caudal fin deeply forked. Color, bright metallic green, blue, and golden ; deep blue on the back. Head and opercle golden green ; belly and anal, in certain lights, giving a glistening pinkish hue. Irides bluish and white. Length seven to nine inches. Their known geographic range is at present limited. Dr. Storer speaks of them as being so abundant at Cape Cod as to be used as manure. This fish is identified by Dr. Gilpin, of Halifax, as exist- ing on the coast of Nova Scotia. li i'4 1 ; f: T iy m 1 i !) 16 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. Family. — BlenniidjE. 1. Ariarrhicas lupus j Linn. (Tlie Wolf-fish.) Description. — The general color of this fish is a leaden gray. It has 1 1 or 1 2 broad black bands on the sides, becoming indistinct towards the tail ; the belly is of a brownish ash-color, tinged with pink. Its ferocious-looking cat-like head, and exceedingly coarse thick skin, covered with slime, gives it a hideous appearance, and renders it an object of disgust. It possesses no ventral fins, and the jaws and palate are armed with large tubercular leet' Its usual length ia from thirty inches to five feet ; but in high northern latitudes it is said to attain the length of six and eight feet. This fish is often caught at the entrance of the Bay of Fundy, and is caught at all seasons along the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia. The voracious and savage character of the wolf-fish is apparent from its formidable array of teeth, and its vicious propensities when first drawn from the water. Its body, though massive, is adapted for active and energetic motion ; and its powerful bite makes it a very formidable enemy. The food of the wolf-fish consists of crus- taceous and testaceous animals, which its powerful jaws and rounded molar teeth enable it to break down sufficiently for its purpose. It is said to spawn in May or June, among rocks and reefs, near which it is generally caught. Family. — Gobiid-e. 1. J/umpus vulgaris, Cuv. (The common Lump-fish.*) Dbscbiption. — ^This fish is characterized by the ventrals being united in a disc or cup-shaped form. The body is deep and rough, with bony tubercles ; it is soft and flaccid, resembling a lump of jelly. By means of its cup-shaped ventrals, it adheres so firmly to any solid Bubstance as to be removed with difficulty. It varies in length firom ten to twenty inches. In the spring it is taken in considerable numbers near the har- bour of Halifax, the largest weighing about five pounds. It approaches the shores at this season to deposit its spawn. They are taken of two diflFerent colors ; the one variety being of a dark blue, approaching to black, and the other quite red. Those of a red color only are used as food ; they are considered good by many, • This ourioni flah, u well u the suoklng-flsh. Is placed by Cnrier in the same order with the Gwlitfls and the Flat-flshes. PeKay afflmn that the position of the suddnfr-flsh (a Osh of Uka charaeteristios) in this order is doubtAil. So that, following Professor MUller, I have good raaaoB to •onoluda that the lump-flsb is rightly plaead hera. altlioug conside principi quantit 1. . Desckii 3 d V if P s V tl o h g tl S{ nr u SI al Theil Brunsw the shor up by a Basin, a resort tl opened which a the fish. In the skeleton stomach stomach ordinary first exai DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 17 Us has 11 towards nk. Its ick skin, ers it an aws and length is des it is Fundy, I Scotia, pparent es when adapted kes it a of crus- ,ws and r for its cks and lited in a srith bony illy. By any solid n length the har- ids. It hey are rk blue, a red many, er with the Oih of Ittn have good although very fat and somewhat oily. The dark-colored variety is considered very inferior, and is not eaten. The lump-fish feeds principally on the young of other fish, of which it devours great quantities. Family. — LoPHiiDiE. 1. Lophitis Americanua, DeKay. (Tlie American Angler.) DESCRirxiON. — This fish has a very disgusting appearance, and its mon- strous form has given rise to many popular names, such as " sea- devil," " fishing-frog," " bellows-fisli," " goose-fish," " monk-fish," and various others. The family to which he assigns tlie genus Lopliius, is designated by Cuvier, Pediculated Pectorales, from the peculiar format'on of the pectoral fins, which are palmated, and shaped not unlike the hand of a child ; by these and the aid of t!»e ventrals, which from their position perform the office of hind feet, the fish can creep on the bottom like a little quadruped. The head of this fish is Avide, depressed ; the mouth nearly as wide as the head. Upon its head are tAvo long slender appendag'is, at the end somewhat resembling a little fish which, while crouching close to the ground, it moves about so as to lure its prey, as with a bait, and thence it derives its name. The numerous double rows of teeth, some recurved and conical, and others long and acute, give the enor- mous gaping mouth a frightful appearance. The color of the whole upper surface of the body is brown ; fin membranes darker ; under surface of the body, ventral and pectoral fins, white ; tail dark brown, almost black. Its common size is about three feet. The Angler is found all along the coasts of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Several specimens were seen in November, 1850, on the shores of Annapolis Basin, near Digby, where they were thrown up by a severe storm. They are said to abound in the Annapolia Basin, and to be very destructive to the shoals of herring which resort there. These fish are never eaten, but they are sometimes opened for the sake of the numerous fishes found in their stomachs, which are monstrously large, as compared with the length of the fish. In the Museum of the College of Surgeons in Dublin, there is a skeleton of an Angler about two feet and a half in length, in tiie stomach of which is the skeleton of a cod, two feet long, in whose stomach again are contained the skeletons of two whitings of the ordinary size ; and in the stomach of each whiting, when it was first examined, there lay numerous half-digested little fishes. 2 I- - i% ■ \ 18 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. Order III. — Teleostei ; Group. — Pharyngoonathi. The fishes of this group, consisting of but four families, are some- times furnished, like the preceding group, with spinous rays in the dorsal fin, whilst in other cases these rays are wanting. By Cuvier and the subsequent writers, therefore, these fishes were divided be- tween the two principal groups of spinous-finned and soft-finned. Owing to the peculiar structure of tho inferior pharyngeal bones, they are made by Professor Miiller to comprise a separate group. Family. — Labrid^.* 1. Ctenolabrus ceruleus^ DeKay. (The Sea Perch, or Gunner.) Description. — There is scarcely any fish whose colors are so variable. In the smaller individuals the general color is blue, more or less mixed with broAvn ; and faint, dusky, transverse bars may frequently be seen. In the larger fish, such as are twelve inches long, the colors are bright and showy, a light orange-colored tint pervading the whole body ; the head and gill-covers of a beautiful chocolate color, mixed with light blue ; the fins of a blue, more or less brilliant. The jaws are covered with thick fleshy lips, whence the family de- rives its name of labrus, lipped, that is, thick-lipped fishes. This fish is common on the Atlantic coast of North America, from Delaware Bay to the shores of Newfoundland, and is known by a variety of names. In New York it is called the " bergall," a name of Dutch origin ; and also the " chogset," derived from the Mohegan dialect. On account of its prevailing color, it is often called " blue-fish.'* At Boston, where this fish is taken in myriads, it is called " blue-perch ;" but among eastern fishermen generally it is known as the " cunner." Their haunts are deep pools among rocks, where they hide themselves in fuci, and are said to feed chiefly on Crustacea. On the coast of Maine and Massachusetts they are taken with rod and line. They are skinned before being dressed ; they are sweet and palatable as food. They are very plentiful in the Gut of Canso, and abound everywhere on the At- lantic and Gulf coasts of Nova Scotia, but being oi small size, are very little esteemed. * There ii a ipecies of this fkmilv which is verv abundant on the coast of the United States, and has even found its way in small numbers to tne Bay of Fundy. The writer cannot, however, learn that it has been caught on the Nova Scotia shore. This dsh it called the Tautoo, or BLACK-riffH {niutoga Americana), DsKat. It is well known it Boston and New York; is a savoury flsh, affbrdins equal pleasure to the angler and the epicui e. Mr. Perley states that it baa 'Occaaionally been eznibited for sale in the flsh-market of St. John, N. B. re some- ys in the y Cuvier rided be- 't-finned. il bones, group. inner.) variable, re or less frequently long, the pervading chocolate ;s brilliant, family de- America, is known srgall," a from the is often myriads, generally )ls among to feed achusetts 'ore being are very 1 the At- . size, are United States, not, however, Tautoo, or w York; is a .tes that it baa DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 19 Order III. — Teleostei ; Group. — Anacanthini.* Family. — Gadid^. 1. M(y,rh,ua vulgaris, Linn. (The common Cod.) Description. — ^This fish is well known as an article of food in nearly every part of the world. Among fishermen it is designated the bank cod. It is always a thick, well-fed fish, and often attains a great weight, — sometimes 70 or 80 pounds, and even more The color varies much in individuals, but is generally a greenish brown, fading into ash color when the fish is dead, with many reddish-yellow spots ; the belly, silvery opaque white ; the fins pale green ; the lateral line dead white. This fish is taken from the coast of Maine northwardly, as far as man has penetrated. It is very abundant off the coast of Nova Scotia, and on the various banks ; and in the Bay of Fundy. It forms the staple of the Nova Scotia fisheries. The value of cod exported in the years 1864-5 was 11,411,317. The value of other varieties of the cod family — hake, haddock, pollock, &c. — exported in that year was $214,594. The cod is an exceedingly voracious fish. It attacks indiscriminately everything in its way, devouring smaller fish, Crustacea and marine shell-fish. Mr. Perley remarks, "Its stomach is the great repository from which naturalists have lately obtained so many rare and undescribed species of shells inhabiting deep water, and which are unattainable by any other means." 2. Morrhua Americana, Storer. (The American Cod.) Description. — This species is slightly, though permanently, distinct from the common or bank cod. The back is of a light olive green (be- coming pale ash in the d^ad specimens), covered with numerous reddish or yellowish spots to a short distance bolow the Literal line, which is an opaque white throughout its whole extent. '* '^ere are several varieties of the American cod, the most usual of ich are the arenosus, or shoal cod of Dr. Mitchell, with a greei < bi brown hue, and inconspicuous spots ; and the rupestris or rock cod of the same author, of a smaller size, with a reddish hue, occasionally a bright red. The American cod ranges from New York northwardly, along the whole coast of North America', to the Saint Lawrence. Fine specimens of the rupestris or rock cod may be seen in the fish- market of Halifax, during the season ; their quality is admirable. * 8m p. 6, for charaeterittioi of this group. } Vv't! 20 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. lii '4< 3. Morrhua pruinoaaf Mitch. (The Toracod.) Desckiption. — Head small, and flattened abovo; the abdomen prominent; the tail long and slender ; the cheeka lustrous. Length from four to twelve inches. The colors of the tomcod vary greatly, scarcely any two individuals being exactly alike ; five varieties have been noticed, and it is thought the number may be still further increased. Its general color is olive green above, with irregular streaks and blotches ; beneath, silvery white. This fish ranges the whole American coast, from New Yorii northwardly ; it is taken on the shores of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick throughout the year. It is a savoury fish, and may be taken in large quantities with the greatest case. As it seizes almost any bait greedily, it is a great source of amusement to juvenile anglers everywhere. It frequently ascends rivers, even into fresh water. In the early part of winter, after the first severe frost, it becomes very abundant in the mixed waters of estuaries, and hence the name of " frost-fish," which is frequently applied to it. At that season it is in fine condition, and is consumed in large quantities. 4. Morrhua ceglejinus, Cuv. (The Haddock.) Description.— The distinctive color of the haddock is blackish brown, above and silvery gray below the lateral line, which is jet black. The back and sides are varied by purplish and gold gleams, which disappear very soon after the fish is dead. The body is stout forward, and tapering backward ; the head large and arched ; the eyes large ; the lower jaw the shortest. The haddock is found everywhere on the American coast, north of New York. It is abundant in the harbours of Nova Scotia, both in the Atlantic and in the Bay of Fundy. It spawns early in spring, and the young are said to be six inches long in September. Its food is small fish, Crustacea, and almost any of the inferior ani- mals of the deep. Haddock swim in immense shoals, and are prone to change their ground after having arrived. When their numbers are considered, the consumption of food, even in a short space of time, must be enormous ; and this may be one reason for their seeking new localities. The haddock is an exceedingly fine fish when eaten fresh. It is to a limited extent prepared in the same manner as the Finnan haddocks of Scotland. Til DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 21 minent ; » four to :ely any noticed, ed. It!* iks and r York d New nay be almost uvenile to fresh frost, it i hence it. At n large n, above ^'he back isappear Eird, and rge ; the north ia, both arly in tember. lor ani- and are in their a short ison for gly fine in the 6. Merlangus* carbonarius, Cuv. (The Coal-fish or Pollock.) DEScniPTiON. — Upper part of the head, and the back above the lateral line, are almost black ; beneath that line (which is silvery white) the fish is much lighter in color, becoming grayish white, with golden reflections on the sides and belly ; the head tajiers to the snout ; the upper jaw rather the shortest ; the mouth black ; the teeth very small. From its beauty of form and quickness of motion, the Bay of Fundy fishermen often call it the " sea salmon." The pollock is one of the few fishes that range on both sides of the Atlantic. It is a northern fish, and the coast of New York is assigned as its southern limit on this side the Atlantic. It is found far to the north, and was the only fish met with by Lord Miilgrave on the shores of Spitzbergen. Mr. Perley remarks that he had not seen in the Gulf of St. Lawrence a single specimen of this fish ; nor had he ever met a fisherman who had taken one within the Gulf, except near the northern end of the Strait of Canso. In the Bay of Fundy the pollock abounds almost everywhere, except in the muddy waters of Cumberland Bay, and the Basin of Minas. TIic season for spawning i*- early in spring ; in the early part of summer the fish is lank and worthless. It becomes in good condition in August, and improves as the season advances ; it then prowls after prey in large companies. It swims at no great depth, and when attracted by bait, will keep near a boat or vessel until all are taken. 6. Phycis AmericanuSy Storer. (The American Hake.f) Description. — It is of a reddish brown color, with slight metallic reflec- tions on the cheeks, and a dark patch between the orbits ; abdomen lighter, mixed with gray. It has one barbule under the chin ; the ventral fins are simple rays, divided or forked, one of the divisions larger than the other. Head pointed, flattened above ; snout promi- nent; the upper jaw projects beyond the lower; both jaws are arched with several rows of sharp, incurved teeth, which render necessary an armature of six or eight inches above the hook, as this fish readily bites off a common cod-line. The geographical range of this fish appears to be from Cape Cod, northwardly. It is taken largely on muddy bottoms, both ia the Bay of Fandy and in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, chiefly by fishing * There is another species of the Merlangiu which is talccn on the Nova Scotia coast; but it is by no means abundant. It is generally called the whiting by the lishermen who bring it to the Halifax market. It is thought to differ from the " whiting" of Europe ( G'atitw JUerlangut). t There is another species of Hake which is found in the Bay of Fundy, called the Silver Hake {Merhicius albidui); it abounds off Cape Cod, but it is nowhere esteemed as a food flab, altbongh sometimes called the " whiting." ^ 4a 1 V-, c 'I ■tri > ■ y' ?::«' <■ 'Xjso sidcc erect in the water, but usually lies flat on the bottom, one side being in contact with it, and tho other being directed upwards. The lower • rhis fish is sometimes called the Ling in Europe (Cuvier and Latreille, p. 211, Note). Tlie natK-. Ling is also applied to it by acme of our fishermen; but the proper " Ling" has two dor- lalo «n ? *vo barbels on the upper Jaw, atad the fins are without the peculiar coloring ot the torsk. f Tbfi ivrhapH the folUiwing d<>(inition of thn Salmn r'rmflnif, by DeKay, may nerve to dcHcribo it: " Hlackinh, with nuinomu!* Kray Hpoti*. Itody robust; correspondingly short iu pro- portion to its depth. Caudal tin with a sinuous margin. Length two to four feet." In poun( one h DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 29 scarcely 3 species icinity of on their I with ? . It is out is a the sea> II in the ^pillions distinct isputcd. he color )f food : are the joramon irms are of the rushing ice and of the can be imus of of good izens of ng, tlie except ess and place >f fresh- scenery e most ch I hnvft illcd "the ly Horvfi to ort iu pro- In these Lower Provinces brook trout scarcely exceeds three pounds in weight ; and no well-authenticated case is on record of one having reached the weight of six pounds. 3. Salmo trutta, Linn. (The Salmon Trout, or White Sea Trout.*) DESCnii'TiON. — The body of the salmon trout is rather deep for its len<»th ; the lateral line is very nearly straight, passing along the middle of the body, the scales adhering closely. The upper part of the head and body, a rich sea-green color; the lower part of the sides and belly a brilliant silvery white. The fins white, except the dorsal, which is nearly the color of the back. The flesh is of a brilliant pink color, and most excellent. This beautiful trout abounds in tiie estuaries of those rivers of Nova Scotia which flow into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and into the Atlantic Ocean. Many sportsmen resort annually to the numerous rivers in Nova Scotia during the month of June to fish for these sea trout, which enter the rivers at this season. No specimen of this fish has yet been seen in the Bay of Fundy. " To the epicure," writes Mr. Perley, " a fresh caught salmon trout of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, especially early in the season, will always afford a rich treat. Tin sportsman will find it a tho- roughly game fish, rising well at a brilliant fly of scarlet ibis and gold, and affording sport second only to salmon fishing. The most sporting fishing is from a boat, under easy sail, with a ' mackerel breeze,' and oftentimes a heavy ' ground swell.' The fly skips from wave to wave, at the end of thirty yards of line, and there should be at least seventy yards more on the reel. It is truly splendid sport, as a strong fish will oitentimes makes a long run, and give a sharp chase down the wind." At Guysboro' and Crow Harbour, in the Strait of Canso, there is excellent sea-trout fishing at the end of June, as also in the Great Bras d'Or Lake, within the Island of Cape Breton. The largest sea-trout rarely exceeds seven pounds weight ; four pounds weight is considered a fair size. * I have given Mr. I'orley'a description of the Salmo Irulla ; but with it I give the npjnion of Mr. Norris, which denies to tlio rivers of l{riti!>)i North America the exintence of tlie sninio irutta of Europe. Mr. Norris styles tiiis particular trout of our rivers S (Uii'i'lninit. lie r(>innrl(s, " Witli a view of correctinff an error which prevailH in regard to this tish, 1 have adupted tlin HtH'Cific name above. It is improperly referred by Mr. I'erley to nalmi) trutta, an Kuropfau i*ikj- oie* found in the rivers of Scotland and Ireland." Amengst the characN'rlsticH wliieli renn<>r these two species of the Salinonidic diverse are, that the sea-trout ot British America has rod ■pots, while the Mlmo trutta has no rod spots, but on the contrary, daric irregular marltinga somewhat resembling the letter X— th« shape of those fonnd In the salmon. ■ i. i I 5 iiwinwiiii mm 30 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. 11 !.. 1.1' s 4. Osmerus viridescens^ Lesueur. (The American Smelt.) Description. — Body elongated, cylindrical, tapering gradually towards the head and tail. Lateral line straight, not concurrent with the line of the back. Head rather more than one-fifth of the total length. Eyes large. Lower jaw larger than the upper, armed with strong, acute, recurved teeth. Pectorals pointed ; ventrals broad and long, with subequal rays ; caudal forked. Color, pale olive-green above the lateral line ; opercles and sides silvery ; below the lateral line, obscure traces of a broad longitudinal eatin-like band. Length, six to twelve inches. This delicate and savory fish abounds in Nova Scotia. Very soon after the rivers are freed in spring, the smelts rush in to the smaller streams in countless thousands, and are then taken with the most wasteful profusion. The popular name of smelt is given to this fish from its peculiar smell, which resembles that of cucum- bers, or of violets ; this is strongest when the fish is first taken ; but it may be perceived by raising the gill-covers after the fish has been some time out of the water. The smelt feeds largely on the shrimp. It bites readily at the hook, baited with a piece of any of the crustaceous animals, and affords endless sport to young anglers. They are also caught in thousands by fishing through holes cut in ice during winter, and are then greatly prized. The endless abund- ance of the smelt causes it to be less valued as food than it really deserves. 6. Mallotus villosuB, Cuv. (The Capelin.) Description. — The capelin is from four to seven inches in length, and is the smallest species of the salmon family. Under jaw larger than the upper ; the back and top of the head a dull leek green, with bright green and yellow reflections when moved in the light ; sides and belly covered with delicate and very bright silvery scales, which are dotted on the margins with black specks ; the back covered with small smooth grains, like shagreens. It is very nearly allied to the genus osmerus, from which, however, it differs in the smallness of its teeth, and in certain other particulars. The capelin is not abundant on the coasts of Nova Scotia. It is very abundant in Newfoundland, whence large quantities are dried and exported. As an article of bait for cod and other f.sh of that class, the capelin is of much importance ; wherever abundant, the codfishing is excellent. Like the common smelt, it possesses the cucumber smell ; but differs from the smelt in never entering fresh DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 31 aelt.) owarda the the line of tal length, 'ith strong, i and long, •een above ateral line, Length, six ia. Very in to the ikeu with It is given of cucum- st taken ; e fish has sly on the of any of g anglers, [es cut in ^ss abund- I it really gth, and is arger than ;reen, with ight ; sides ales, which vered with lied to the Iness of its la. It is are dried h of that idant, the lesses the ring fresh water streams. The manner in which the capelin deposits its spawn, is a curious fact in natural history. The male fishes are somewhat larger than the female, and are provided with a sort of ridge, projecting on each side of their back bones, similar to the eaves of a house, in which the female capelin is deficient. The latter, on approaching the beach to deposit its spawn, is attended by two male fishes, who huddle the female between them, until the whole body is concealed under the projecting ridges, and her head only is visible. In this position all three run together with great swiftness upon the sands, when the males, by some inlierent imper- ceptible power, compress the body of the female between their own so as to expel the spawn from an orifice near the tail. Having thus accomplished its delivery, the three capelins separate, and paddling with their whole force through the shallow water of the beach, generally succeed in regaining once more the bosom of the deep. Family. — Clupeid^e. 1. Clupea elongata, Storer. (Common American Herring.) Description. — Body lengthened, fusiform, compressed. Back slightly arched. Scales large, silvery, and deciduous. Abdomen sharp, indistinctly serrated ; about thirty spines in front of the ventrals, and fifteen behind them. Head destitute of scales, and about one-seventh of the total length. Pectorals short, rounded. Ventrals under the middle of the dorsal fin. Anal subequal, narrow, highest in front. Caudal small, forked. Back and head deep blue, tinged with yel- low. Length, twelve to thirteen inches. The herring is found everywhere on the coast of Nova Scotia ; and is amongst the most valuable of our food fishes. The habits, haunts, and seasons of the herring are matters of curious enquiry. It seems, however, now to be well established that the only migra- tion of the herring is from the deep seas to the shores at the spawn- ing season, and from the shore to the deep seas when this is over. Their food consists of small Crustacea and fishes. Dr. J. Bernard Gilpin, of Halifax, who has given much attention to this depart- ment of our Natural History, remarks : — "1. It is of one species. " 2. With regard to teeth, these upon the tongue and vomer seem con- stant in all ; the larger specimens very rarely upon the lower lip ; the smaller usually having them there. Generalising from examining some hundred specimens, I would say the teeth became obliterated by age, and that the more readily as they have no bony origin like the genus tcXmo, %. 5' ■ty- ■a I . T, ■: M 32 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. i! i ^ t m 11^ i *' 3. iSome spawn in May and Juno, others as late as October. This very remarkable fact, cau8ing suggestions of how far it modifies tlie growth and habits of each run, stands so far without any reason. " 4. Tliese separate runs, hatched under very different circumstances, and necessarily of different age and size, revisit their old haunts, spawn the second year, and are three years in attaining adult size, and probably by that time become absorbed in the runs of older fish. " 5. That great and small of all ages approach the surface and the land in spring, and disappear in autumn. The warm seas and calm weather of the summer being necessary for the'r ^pawning and their food, — that as far as regards cur coasts their only migration is from the deep soundings of the sea banks to the coasts and back agai.i, — though I by no means assert that in higher latitudes they do not perform greater migrations. These migra- tions must cause a total change in the food, the temperature, res'>ir"tion and external pressure during winter and summer. " Following DeKay and Storer, I have considered it a distinct species from the harenga, or English, tliough Richardson calls his taken at Bathurst inlet, harenga ; and Yarrell's description of the harenga seems to vary but little from ours." The value of herring exported from Nova Scotia in the years 1864-G5 was $452,337. 2. Alosa sapidissima, Storer. (The American Shad.) Description. — Body deep Jind compressed. The width across the body, from the commencement of the dorsal fin to the caudal, is nearly equal to one-fifth the length of the fish. Abdominal ridge serrated throughout ; fhe whole body covered with largo deciduous scales, except the head, which is naked. Length, one to two feet. The shad is but rarely seen on the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia ; in the muddy waters of the Bay of Fundy it is taken in large quan- tities, and owing to the great abundance there of its favorite food — the " shad worm" and the shrimp — it attains the highest per- fection. Unlike most fish which frequent the northern seas, the shad comes from the south to deposit its spawn. This is inferred from the fact of its appearing along the American coast from tne extreme south in «ach successive month from January to May. At Charleston it appears in January ; at Norfolk in February ; on the coast of New York at the latter end of March or beginning of April : at Boston in the latter part of April. In the Bay of Fundy it seldom appears until the middle of May. The flesh of the shad is of delicate flavor, and is esteemed next to the salmon. This very I'owth and ance% and ipawn the obably by the land weather of hat as far ngs of the ssert that se migra- •"tion and ct species i Bathurst vary but he years he body, is nearly serrated 13 scales, , Scotia ; je quan- ito food est per- 3as, the inferred •om tue o May. iry ; on ning of Fundy le shad DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. 33 3. Alo8a ttfrannuSf DcKay. (Tiic Gasperoau, or American Alewive.) Descuiption. — Abdominal ridge serrated. Back, blue-green, approaehing to purple ; sides, silvery. Head, dark green above, and tin* tip of the lower jaw of the same color ; operclej», _v "ow. L(;ngtli, eight to ten inches. Tliis species is less abundant than the common herring. In spring it ascends the rivers and stream? to the very sources to deposit its spawn, and is then easily caught. It would appear that the alewive also comes from the south to deposit its spawn in northern rivers, as it frequents the American coast at the same time with the shad ; and, in depositing its spawn, it often frccpicnts the same localities as the shad. It is not so much esteemed as the common herring. Family. — MuRiENiDiE.* 1. Anguilla vulgaris^ Mitch. (The Common Eel.) Description. — Besides the ab.« nee of ventral fins, the eels have the dorsal and caudal continued round the end of the tail, forming by their union a pointed caudal. They are at once known by their long, slender, snake-like bodies, with a soft skin, covered with a thick mucus, and having the scales very minute, and often almost invisible. The color of the Common Eel is greenish olive above, yellow beneath ; this color extending along the base of tlie anal fm, nearly to the end of the tail. It varies greatly in size, being taken from six inches to two feet br more in length. The " Silver Eel," so called, is considered to be a variety of thf Common Eel. The eel inhabits both fresh and salt water, and is taken in every situation which it can reach. It is abundant in the har- bours and rivers of Nova Scotia. In summer it is caught in long round Indian baskets, called eel-pots ; it is also taken by torch-light with the spear. In winter it is taken through holes in the ice, by spearing it in the mud, where it then lies torpid. The places where this fishing takes place are termed " eel-grounds." It is very voracious, feeding on aquatic insects, small fishes, and all dead animal substances that come in its way. The structure of its branchial pouches enabling it to live out of water for a long time, it frequently quits the water in warm damp nights, and wanders over the grass, either in quest of worms, frogs, or other * Cuvinr distinguishes the Eels from the rest of this group by the term Apodal— without feet, or without vuutral fini). 8 -li ' m " ^ I f s ,■ i Il^gg^ 34 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. food, or in order to change its locality. When in good condition it is an excellent, well-flavored fish ; but it is not generally eaten.* IM Order IV. — CYCLOSTOMi.t Family. — Petromyzonid^. 1. Petromyzon AmericanuSf Storer. (The American Lamprey.) Description. — Forepart of the body round, posterior part flattened. There are seven large branchial apertures back of each eye, passing backward in nearly a straight line, the first smallest. When unat- tached, the mouth is a longitudinal fissure ; but when attached, it is circular, the lip forming a ring, furnished with hard horny teeth, of a yellow color within. Color usually of u bluish brown, mottled with dark olive green along the back; beneath, a uniform dull yellowish olive. It sometimes attains the length of thirty inches, with a girth of six inches. Tlie lamprey is common to all the fresh waters of the Lower Provinces. It ascends the rivers in May, and oassing into the smaller streams, generally selecting those whicb liave stony or gravelly bottoms, it there deposits its spawn among conical heaps of stones. They are often seen in the summer, in pairs, at work together, constructing these mounds, which are about three feet in diameter at the base, and two feet high, composid of stones from the size of an ounce bullet to that of the fist ; they often aid each other in carrying the same stone. It is not known at what time the lamprey returns to the sea, as it alwpys moves in the night ; but there is an impression that it dies in the fresh water after spawning. This impression may have arisen from the fact that dead lampreys are often seen in the streams towards autumn. This fish is believed to do much damage to mill-dams built upon gravelly or sandy foundations, by working its way beneath the dam, through the sand and gravel, and occasioning leaks which gradually undermine the dam and eventually lead to its destruc- tion. The lamprey, in the United States and elsewhere, is held in high estimation by epicures. * Mr. Ferley describes a speeiM called the Sea^eel {AnguiUa oeeanica), which he saw occa- •ionallv in the 6ulf of St. Lawrence. It is described as orowuisb on the back ; pale on the sides; beneath smutty white; fins tipped with bluish white or pale blue. They bad been taken by the Indians with torch and spear, three feet in length. t For description of this Order, see p. 6. INDEX ; r Of POPULAR NAMES OF FISHES IN THIS CATALOGUE. Anglor American 17 Alewive 33 Bullhead, Common 9 Bullhead, Greenland 9 Bass, Striped 11 Basa, Little White 12 Cod, Common 19 Cod, American 19 Catfish 24 Chub 25 Capelin 30 Dogfish, Spinous 8 Eel, Common 33 Flounder 23 Haddock, Norway 10 Haddock 20 Hake, American 21 Halibut 23 Herring 31 Harvest-fish 15 Killifish 26 Lump-fish 16 Lamprey 34 Mackerel 13 Minnow 2b Perch, Yellow 11 Pond-fish 12 Porgee 12 Pollock 21 Shark, Thresher 7 Shark, Basking 7 Skate 8 Sturgeon 8 Sea-horse 9 Stickle-back 10 Sword-fish.. 15 Sea-perch 18 Sand-launce 24 Sucker 25 Salmon 26 Sm«lt 30 Shad 32 Tunny, Common 14 Torsk or Cusk 22 Trout, Brook 28 Trout, Sea 29 Tom-cod 20 Wolf-fish 16 '.I- : ' '' 'i " O LORD, HOW MANIFOLD ARti THY WORKS ; IN WISDOM IIA8T THOU MADE THEM ALL." 14 Pi. : «: SUPPLEMENTARY PAPER il HAST THOU ON SEA- MAMMALS AND SHELL -FISH. 'i; i 1 ^1 " EVEN THE SEA MONSTERS DRAW OUT THE BREAST, THEY GIVE SUCK TO THEIR YOUNG ONES." "SO IS THIS GREAT AND WIDE SEA, WHEREIN ARE THINGS CREEPING INNUHEBABLE." I t ' I I [VE SUCK TO IS CREEPINU SEA- MAMMALS: SHELL-FISH. The whale, the seal, the porpoise, r } 1 :-II f >"f * '> % 40 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. r -;' Saint Lawrence, in immense flocks, during the fall and winter, and it returns to the open sea in the spring. A large number of vessels are fitted out every year at Newfoundland, the Magdalen Islands, and Pointe-des-Esquimaux, for the capture of this seal. Each seal at full adult age, produces from ten to twelve gallons of oil. The seal fishery is but little prosecuted from Nova Scotia. 3. Phoca o'istata, Gmelin. (Hooded Seal.) Descrh'TION. — Its body is very large and loaded with blubber, from which (in a full-grown animal) thirty gallons of oil can be obtained. That which distinguishes this animal from the rest of its species, is a globular sack, whicli is moveable, and with which it can at any time cover its ey(!s and snout. Length from seven to nine feet. The young animals have a skin of a white color, and the adult animals of a brown color. The hooded seal inhabits the Arctic sea and Hudson's Bay, but it is frequently found in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, where it is seen in large numbers towards the close of the fall ; later in the season it is found on floating ice in the Gulf, and the females deposit their young on the ice during the month of April. Each spring laige numbers of these seals are killed by the fishermen. The Trichecus rosmarus, Linnaeus, (Moose or Sea Cow,) was formerly an inhabitant of our seas, but is now extinct. Its favorite haunts were Isle Miscou and the Magdalen Islands, where it found good resting places in the sandy beaches ; but the early settlers hunted it with such keenness that it disappeared sixty years ago. Its tusks are occasionally found in the sand-beaches in a perfect state of preservation. Order — Cetacea. Family. — Delphinidje. Characteriried by the moderate size of the head, and usually by the presence of teeth in both jaws. 1. Delphinus orca, Lacej). (Grampus.) Description. — Rhuk on the back, and whitish under the belly. It has a dorsal iir», which is remarkable on account of its ])ointed and crooked shape. The tail is horizontal, like that of the whale. The grampus is found on the shore of Nova Scotia, and is common in the ttiver and Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is from twenty to twenty-five feet in lengtii. It is a greedy fish, and feeds on herring, capelin, 1 EDIBLE MOLLUSCA OF NOVA SCOTIA. The information concerning the Mammalia and Crustacea of our waters is transcribed, with little alteration, from Mr. Fortin's report. The author is indebted to J. R. Willis, Esq., of Halifax, for the following ample description of our edible MoUusca, which has already been published in a colonial periodical ; and which deserves a more permanent record than was there given to it. Mr. WiUis's list embraces all the known edible Mollusca of Nova Scotia. In this department of scientific research in Nova Scotia, if not in British North America, Mr. Willis is the highest authority. Although the variety of edible mollusca occurring in the waters of Nova Scotia is somewhat limited, yet it will bo found, from the spec Jiens sent to the great International Exhibition of 1862, that the species used as food, in point of abundance, size, and quality, will compare very favorably with like species in the Mother Country, the sister Provinces, and neighboring Republic. JH m ■ilMUl>iW*M»i*>HUIM>^ 44 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. I It' -4'^^' It is to be noted, however, ♦hat from the fact of other more important staples of food, as mea game, fish, lobsters, (fee., being so very cheap and plentiful as to place them within the rcacli of all classes of the population, the eatable shell-fish, with the excep- tion of the oyster and a few other favorite species, occupy a sub- ordinate position as articles of food, and are only occasionally offered for sale at merely nominal prices. In describing the series, no attention has been given to the mere history of each individual species ; it is conceived that any dis- quisition on this head would more properly appertain to a work of ultimate research than to an Essay, this portion of which is intended to make the reader acquainted, in as brief a form as possible, with this interesting and valual)le department of our Provincial Natural History. In this view of the subject, I have aimed at little more than accuracy and simplicity ; giving, where I am acquainted, a description of the animal, and shell which it inhabits, its locality, popular name, and marketable value in Provincial markets, with any other interesting facts in connection therewith. Oyster. — There are two well defined varieties of this delicious shell-fish — The Native (Ostrea Borealis) and Virginian, (0. Vir- giniana) occurring in numerous extensive beds from Bay Verte to Margarie, thus stretching along the whole northern coast, thence probably around the Island of Cape Breton to many other locali- ties aroimd the Province, as yat unexamined. They are either imported to Halifax, fresh from the water, by railroad, in barrels containing about three bushels each, or by large schooners, in bulk. By either mode, they are rapidly disposed of at Halifax and other sea-ports in the Province, for generally about three shilliuf ^ oicrling per bushel, which, on the average contains about ton dozen of " Natives" and eight dozen of the " Virginian." Both varieties are easily dredged, either with the usual oyster rake, or with tongs. Some idea may be formed of the abundance of the oyster, from the fact that in Halifax alone, one of the dealers, Mr. S. Wilson, disposed of 2000 bushels last season, and over 1000 up to this date (Nov. 1862) the present season. Mr. Wilson also informs me that the Native, though not attaining the great size of the Virginian, exceeds it and all others on this continent in delicacy and richness li icr more ;c., Vjcing reach of lie excep- py a sub- jasionally the mere any dis- a, work of intended ible, with 1 Natural ttlc more laintcd, a i locality, kets, with delicious (O. Vir- Vcrtc to t, thence icr locali- ire either n barrels )oners, in Halifax 3ut three ins about ' Both r rake, or SEA-MAMMALS : SHELL-FISH. 45 tei', from . Wilson, this date s me that Virginian, 1 richness of flavor. The "Virginian" is also a very fine, mild oyster, remarkable for its great size, (the specimen amongst Nova Scotia exhibition, edible mollusca, being fourteen inches long, and the animal large in proportion) and for being easily kept, if neccsisary, the whole season around. Description of Ostrea Borealis, (Lamarck). — Shell, oblong ovate, with imbricated, undulated plates, upper valve somewhat convex ; length, three to five inches ; color, dusky brown, or whitish, inter- mixed with green, — within, pearly white ; muscular im[)ression, purplish ; (McKay) Summit of the left valve prolonged, in very old specimens, into a sort of heel ; right valve, more or less opcr- culiform ; hinge, oval, toothless ; ligament, t^ub-interior, short, inserted in an oblong cardinal cavity, increasing with the summit ; muscular impression, single, and sub-central ; sub-nacreous, slightly prismatic. Animal : body, compressed ; mantle, quite open, slightly adhering to the shell ; edges of the mantle thick, retractile, finely fringed ; a sub-central, bi-partate muscle. Locality : Tatamagouche, Sydney, &c. DeserijHion of Ostrea Virginiana. — Shell, elongated, slightly curved, very irregular, massivo, laminated ; upper valve convex ; 'ower beak, very long in adult specimens ; color, brownish, — within pearly white ; muscular impression, purplish ; length of full grown specimen, fourteen itches — medium, eight inches. Animal, though not so orbicular as the preceding, closely resembles it. Locality — Wallace, Tracadie, Mabou, Margarie, &c., &c. Scallops. — The Scallops, of which there are three known varie- ties, (Pecten Magellanicus, P. Islandicus, and P. Concentricus) all popularly called Scallop, indigenous to Nova Scotia, are only occasionally offered for sale in the Halifax markets, or elsewhere, from the fact of their not being so readily captured as the Oyster. The first and second species are, however, considered a delicacy, and I have known them to be sold here readilv for one shilling sterling, each. They are both common to the whole coast of Nova Scotia, but abound on the sand beaches, particularly on Sable Island, where, after a heavy gale, the hardy Outpost Man, on going his philanthropic but dreary " beat," along the shores of th« Island, to discern whether any wrecked mariner demands his assistance, frequently finds a fleet of unwary scallops cast away on 1. 1 m' ■y- ' 1 ■fi V' 46 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. (i Jill M ■^ :r' !|' the sands, alive, but high and dry. Without any feelings of com- punction, ho quickly seizes the prizes, and condemns them for their careless misfortune to be roasted alive, and with the aid of a little butter, pepper, and salt, they furnish him with a supper which an epicure might envy. Pecten Magellanicus furnishes the residents of Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, Chester, &c., with many a rich treat. In these localities it is said to be very abundant, and more easily obtained than in most other parts of the Province. I have dredged living specimens of Pecten Islandicus in Halifax Harbor, and North West Arm, Halifax Harbor. Owing to the fact of its being scarcer than P. Magellanicus, it is not so much sought after as an article of food, though it is considered quite as delicate. Pecten Concentricus does not occur in any part of the Province, 80 far as I am aware, except on Sable Island. The shells of Pecten Magellanicus from Sable Island, are not so coarse and massive as specimens procured from other localities ; they are generally very elegantly marked with light or dark pin' radiations, on a light ground, while the interior presents a very beautiful satin-like, subnacreous appearance. The markings of Pecten Islandicus, on the other hand, are mostly not so sharp and well-defined as in specimens from other parts of the Province. The valves of Pecten Contertricus are also generally well rubbed down, probably caused by the continual friction of the shells on the sandy bottom. The scallop occurs in water from three to fifteen, or even forty fathoms. Q-eneral Description. — Shell — Suborbicular, regular, thin, auricu- lat3d ; summits contiguous, resting on the right valve, with radiating lines on ribs ; right valve most convex ; hinge, toothless ; a liga- mentous membrane throughout all its extent, besides a short, thick ligament, almost altogether internal, filling a triangular excavation under the summit ; a single sub-central musoalar impression. Animal — Body more or less compressed, orbicular ; mantle quite open, furnished with a single row of tentacular papillsB, with small, oculiform, pedunculated disks, with regular spaces between them ; foot finger like, with a byssus in the young specimen ; mouth surrounded by fleshy appendages, irregularly ramified. Maxi- mumsize of Pecten Magellanicus, eight inches diameter ; Pecten Islandicus, four inches diameter ; Pecten Concentricus, 2.5 inches diameter. / j' SEA-MAMMALS : SHELL-FISH. 47 Mussels. — There are two varieties of mussels, so called, used as food ill Nova Scotia — Mytihis Edulus and Modiola Vulgaris — which can be procured in any quantity around the whole coast. The first of these, of large size and fine flavor, can be purchased, when in season, at the Halifax market, for about two shillings sterling per bushel. Many of our musseh" are pierced by some insidous foe, probably some of the Purpura, or Fusus, and in consequence, the animal in repairing tlie damage to his house, deposits the cxcre- sences resembling pearls, in the interior of his shell, and in some instances his body is one mass of pearls, from the size of fine shot to that of a small pea. The Modiola, or, as it is popularly called here. Horse Mussel, is but rarely used as an article of food, and is never, to my knowledge, offered for sale. It occurs in great abundance, and of giant pro- portions : vide specimens in the exhibition of Nova Scotia Edible MoUusca. These two species are so universally known, tiiut a scientific description of either would be quite superfluous. 3Iaad- mum size — Mytilus Bdulis, five inches long, about 6.5 circumference ; Modiola Vulgaris, eight inches long, twelve circumference. h :.i r. ; 1 ur Black Quahog — Cyprina Islandica — known here by the above curious popular name, is frequently hooked up by mistake : while the hardy fisherman is pursuing his laborious avocation on some one of the fishing grounds, his hook, on reaching the bottom, will drop into the open valves of Cyprina, which at once indignantly close, and retain the hook until the fisherman forcibly extracts it, often breaking the shell before it can be got out. This species is considered excellent food ; though I have never seen it ofifered for sale. It occurs pretty generally all around the coast ; the speci- mens in the exhibition of Edible MoUusca from Nova Scotia were dredged by me in Halifax Harbor. It is said that the wolf-fish (Anarhicus. Lupus) ^ with his powerful jaws and sharp teeth, will crush up the massive adult shell without difficulty. I have taken some hundreds of young specimens from the stomachs of cod and haddock. Description. — Shell — With blackish brown epidermis, large, pon- derous, ventricose ; beaks, prominent, incurved, contiguous ; liga- ment, stout and prominent ; basal m.argin, simple, rounded • cardinal teeth, stout and diverging, three in each valve, or the "'. I.'»T. .(■ i-^ 48 FISHf:.S OK NOVA SCOTIA. larf^cstone bi-)»artcd in the right valve ; lateral tootli inconspiciioii.s ; pallial impression, distinct. — (DeKay's Nat. Hist, of New York.) Maximum aize: Vertical axis, 3 ; transverse ditto, .'5.5 ; diameter 1.5. Animal — Tliick, oval, foot conijtrcssed, falciform, geniculated; mantle, close behind, and pierced with two oval apertures, cirrous edges ; no vcritabic tubes. li W> KouND Clam. — This valuable species — Mercenaria Violacea (Schum,) Venus Mercenaria (Lin. and Lam.) — is also popularly called the Quahog, and Hard Shell Clam. It is much prized as an article of food. I am not aware of its market value, tliough I presume it would realize fully as much as the oyster. It is very often dredged in company with the oyster and modiola plicatula, at Wallace, Tracadie, and many other localities in the Province. 1 have collected some dead shells on Sable Island. DeKay mentions a very interesting fact relative to this species, which I have ventured to insert from his very valuable work, TJie Mollusca of New York : " From the internal piirple part of the shell the colored beads of the aborigines were formerly manufactured, constituting the seawan or wampum, the specie currency of the natives. Long Island was formerly the great mint for the supply of this article, and hence its Mohigan appellation of Seawan Hackee, or the Isle of Shells." Since writing the above I have just learned from a scientific gentleman connected with the British North American Mail Service, that Ihe French Government are so deeply impressed with the great value of Venus Mercenaria as an article of food, that instruc- tions have been issued to the Acclimitization Society of France to endeavour to introduce it into French waters. The Society has promptly responded, and some hundreds of bushels will be sent from Boston, U. S., in the course of a few weeks. I think the British Acclimitization Society would do well to follow so good an example. Not one of the twenty-two British Veneridce is at all com- parable, in point of large size or fecundity, to the above. Nova Scotia can supply an unlimited quantity of equal or larger speci- mens as those to be imported from Boston for the French, if there should be any demand for them. Description. — Shell — Solid, tliick, regular, perfectly equivalved and close, inequilateral, sub-cordate ; summits, well-marked and inclined to the front ; hinges, sub-similar ; the middle cardinal SEA-MAMMALS : SHELL-FISH. 49 tootli forked ; two anterior teeth united, forming a single bifid tooth ; ligament thick, convex exterior ; two distinct muscular impressions ; cordiform depressions beneath the beaks. Color varying from dirty white to ash-grey, externally : within, white, with a deep purple border. Animal — Similar to cyprina islandica. Size — Vertical axis, 8.5, transverse ditto, 4.6, diameter, 2.3. — (DeKay's description.) Sea Clam. — In my collection of Nova Scotia Edible Mollusca, there are two specimens of so called sea clams, catalogued Madra Polynyma and M. Solidissima (Stimpson) or M. Gigantea and M. Solidissima (Gould.) 1 prefer, for obvious reasons, in this instance, the nomenclature of Dr. A. A. Gould. Both species of mactra are very plentiful on all the sand-beaches of the Province. Like the peetena, they are frequently thrown ashore alive after a heavy gale. This is quite a common occurrence on Sable Island, where Mactra Gigantea attains such a wonderful size as to fully justify the propriety of its name. It is considered a wholesome and nutritious article of food. The other species, which I take to be Mactra Solidissima, some- times finds its way to Halifax market, and is readily disposed of. I am not aware of the marketable value of either of these fine species. Localities. — M. Gigantea — Sable Island, Mahone Bay, St. Mar- garet's Bay : M. Solidissima — Chester, Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, River John (mouth of.) General Description. — Shell — Large and solid, equivalve trigonal, slightly gaping, smooth, or slightly wrinkled by lines of growth ; ligament, or cartilage, internal, contained in a deep triangular pit ; beaks large, prominent, directed slightly forwards ; hinge, with two diverging cardinal teeth, anterior hinge tooth V-shaped, very delicate, and adhering to a very small base, so that it is usually broken oflT in the cartilage. Epidermis — Thin, and olive-brown or light yellowish ; beneath this, chalky white. Size — M. Gigantea — ^length, 7.6 ; breadth, 5 inches ; M. Solidissima — length, 4.5, breadth, 3.5. Animal — Body, oval and pretty thick ; edges of the mantle, thick, simple, augmented behind by two indistinct tubes ; mouth, small and oval ; labial appendages, narrow ; branchial laminss, very small ; foot oval, trenchant, very long. 4 *'* :) ' ' ,■ •.] 1*1^ oO riSHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. j !' J Is i'l i- : S. In:: m. ^J^ Razor Clam. — Solen Ensis (Lin. and Gould) is the only variety of this curious edible species that I am acquainted with occurring in Nova Scotia waters. Like the Mactra, it is somewhat abundant on all the sand beaches, where it lives in a vertical burrow, exca- vated by its spadc-likc foot. It is easily captured at very low tidci, its locality being indicated by a small orifice in the sand. Though seldom brought to market it is an excellent article of food ; I have seen them sold now and then for a penny apiece in Halifax market. Description (from DeKay) — Shell — Cylindrical, elongated trans- versely, slightly curved, sides parallel ; ends truncate, more or less convexly rounded ; surface with glossy epidermis, and a long trian- gular space, marked by the coucentric Unes of growth ; remaining part of the shell with lines parallel to the basal margin ; hinge, at one end, with a single tooth and a sharp lateral plate of one valve entering between two teeth and a double plate of the other ; the terminations of the two plates, when not broken off, rise up in a curved manner, and cross each other like teeth. Color — Greenish olive ; the long triangular space faded purple ; interior bluish white. Size — 7 inches long ; eight-tenths of inch in diameter. ( Vide spe- cimen of Nova Scotia edible raollusca at Exhibition.) Animal — Mantle closed in its whole length, adhering by its edges, attached to the lower edge of the shell by a double membrane, which is reflected upon itself to form the epidermis ; presenting below a tube, double within, conic, annulated, and capable of great elon- gation, with two simple orifices — that of the syphon larger than that of the vent ; foot quite in front, large, conic, swollen in the middle ; mouth small ; vent, at the end of a small tube floating in the cavity ; labial appendices elongated, triangular ; branchia long, narrow, pointed behind, adhering on two lines in front on each side of the body, then uniting at a certain distance behind into one line. Sand CLAM.-^iH^a Arenaria ranks amongst our ngiost useful and valuable varieties of edible moUusca. It occurs in large size in profusion around the whole ooast. When in season it can be pur- chased in Halifax markets, either in the shell for a shilling sterling per bushel, or taken out of the shell for about three pence per quart. Besides being used as an article of food, it also forms an important item in the fisheries. It is said to be an irresistible bait SKA-M \>1MA1,S: SIIKLL-FISH. r>i to both haddock ai)d codfish ; is cxtcnsivelv collcctml for that purpose, and sohl in barrels by some of our merchants under the name of chim-bait. This sjiocies is so well known that it is not considered necessary to oflbr any furtlier descrij)tion of animal or shell. Pkriwinklr. — TAttorina Uttoren. — (Ferussac.) — This species, thou 4. it •i- ■' A ■ ',' '.i '• i n ?■/ •t 1 ■1 1^' ■m """-Fr-"''™'"''^"'^ 52 FISHES OF NOVA SCOTIA. I' ' :i k: ' 'I' I U; " 'i wrinkled umbilicus ; lip sharp, smooth within. Color — Epidermis thin and yellowish ; beneath this dark reddish, mixed with ashen ; aperture dark reddish brown, occasionally tinged with yellowish ; operculum amber-colored. Animal — Head emarginate in front: two long and pointed tentacles somewhat flattened at their base ; eyes sessile at the external base of these tentacles ; mouth with a labial tooth, no tongue ; foot short, deeply bilobed across in front, exhibiting behind a lobed appendix, supporting the operculum, which is horny. Whelk. — Buemium Undatum. (Lin. Russell, Gould, : yij- (fcv K (=. 1 it ><