The JLvXAvyv-Av^ JL^AclXXvJ. N#*?s A\ THE MARINE FISHES OF RHODE ISLAND A Guide Book to All Photographs by The Author Pub I, shed by The Marine Fishes of Rhode Island BERNARD L. GORDON Instructor of Biology Rhode Island College = □ ru n- O D □ m o a The Book & Tackle Shop WATCH HILL, RHODE ISLAND Copyright, i960 by Bernard L. Gordon Library of Congress Catalog Card Number 60-12691 TO THE MEMORY OF MY FATHER, JULIUS VICTOR GORDON, WHO INSTILLED IN ME AN APPRECIATION FOR THE WONDERS OF NATURE AND THE UNIVERSE; AND TO MY MOTHER, MOLLIE MELTZER GORDON, WHOSE NEVER CEASING OPTIMISM AND LOVE OF LEARNING ARE BEACONS ALONG THE HIGH ROADS AND BY ROADS OF MY LIFE Quis, nisi vidisset, pisces sub undas nature crederet. — Linnaeus Foreword Rhode Island is the gateway to the North and to the South for the marine fish of the Atlantic Seaboard. Its numerous inlets, bays, and estuaries offer a haven and provide all necessities for permanent habita- tion for numerous kinds of marine fish, fishing is one of the most im- portant industries of Rhode Island. It is indeed fitting thai a guide hook on marine fish be written by a young marine biologist, who has lived close by the sea in one of the most completely seabound stales along the east coast. This book serves a long-time need, for it is exactly fifty years since am- plification describing the marine fish of Rhode Island waters has been published. The present publication serves as an important source of valuable information for fishermen, boy scouts, nature-lovers, students, teachers, marine biologists and naturalists. It answers questions for the curious whose interest lies latent. It offers a challenge to those requiring further stimulus for motivation in their many leisure hours. It is timely written since so much current interest has been aroused in the sea through skin diving and undersea exploration. This book gives impetus to scientific study in marine fishery by its popular presentation of the many different species of marine fish. It assists in making known the many unsolved problems in marine biology, such as life histories, migrations, and ecologi- cal factors. One of the most valuable features of this guide book is the inclusion of photographs of the species of fish described in such detail in the book. For the first time a number of species have been photographed by the young author who has proved himself such a keen observer. A glance at the extensive bibliography indicates the thoroughness and outstanding scholarship of the author as well as a keen desire in im- parting his knowledge through his prolific, writing. The up-to-date bibli- ography alone makes this book an important addition in any library. MARY M. Keeffe, Professor of Biology Rhode Island College Table of Contents Foreword by Professor Mary M. Keeffe vii I. Introduction 1 II. History of Rhode Island Ichthyology 2 III. The Survey of Rhode Island Fishes 4 A. Area Covered 4 B. Materials and Methods (collecting, preserving, recording) 4 IV. Rhode Island Species (abundance, distribution, seasonal appearance, and economic importance) 7 A. Class AGNATHA— Jawless Fishes 7 B. Class CHONDRICHTHYES— Cartilaginous Fishes . 7 C. Class OSTEICHTHYES— Bony Fishes 20 Y. Trends in the Fish Population 82 V I . Summary 88 VII. Bibliography 89 VIII. Acknowledgments 94 IX. Index 95 X. Photographs 105 -135 Protile of the Author 136 FIGURES 1. Map showing area included in this survey of marine fishes of Rhode Island 5 TABLES 1. 10 year Record of Rhode Island Fish Landings 83 2. Marine Fishes not Included in any Previously Published List of Rhode Island Ichthyofauna 84 3. Fresh Water Fish Sometimes Found in Brackish Water of Coastal Rivers of Rhode Island 85 4. List of Fish Species not Reported in Rhode Island Waters during the Past 40 Years 87 5. List of Questionable Rhode Island Fishes 87 LIST OF PLATES Maneater Shark Cover Tuna Tournament Front Endpaper Herring Rear Endpaper Sea Horse Title Page Blackfish or Tautog Frontispiece PLATE 1 . Sea Lamprey 106 2. Mako Shark and Remora 106 3. 4. Maneater Shark 106, 107 5. Basking Shark 107 6. Thresher Shark 108 7. Hammerhead Shark 108 8. Dogfish 108 9. Angel Shark 109 10. Barn Door Skate 109 11. Stingray 109 12. Cow-nosed Ray 110 13. Mermaids Purse 110 14. Sturgeon 110 15. Herring Ill 16. Shad Ill 17. Menhaden Ill 18. Smelts 112 19. Eel 112 20. Eel Trap 112 21. Whiting 113 22. 23. Codfish 113 24. Haddock 114 25. Pollock 114 26. Squirrel Hake 114 27. Summer Flounder 115 28. Yellowtail Flounder 115 29. Winter Flounder 115 30. Sand Dab 116 31. John Dory 116 32. Snipefish 116 ^.^>. Pipefish 117 34. Seahorse 117 35. Mackerel 118 x 36. Bonito 118 37. Tuna 118 38. White Marlin 119 39. Butterfish 119 40. Pilotfish 119 41 . Lookdown 1 20 42. Threadfin 1 20 43. 44. Bluefish 121 45, 46, 47. Striped Bass 122 48. Sea Bass 123 49. Deep-Big Eye 123 50. Scup 124 51. Pinfish 125 52. Weakfish 125 53. Kingfish 125 54. 55. Tilefish 1 26 56. Boar Fish 1 26 57. Sea Raven 127 58. 59. Lumpfish 127, 128 60, 61. Flying Gurnard 128 62. Cunner 1 29 63, 64. Tautog 129 65. Butterfly Fish 130 66, 67, 68. Remora 130, 131 69. Ocean Pout 131 70. Toadfish 132 71. Orange Filefish 132 72. Smooth Puffer 133 73. 74. Blowfish 133 75. Burrfish 134 76. Anglerfish 134 77. Author 135 I. Introduction Fish and shellfish have played an important part in the Rhode Island economy since colonial times. Rhode Island has more than four hundred miles of shoreline, and its waters contain many species of fish. Ichthyological literature contains more than a half dozen type specimens described from Rhode Island waters. These include: Myliobatis freminvillei by LeSueur; Pcristcdion miniatum by Goode; Cheilichthyes trichocephalus by Cope; Alectis crinitus by Mitchill; Pseudopriacantlms althus by T. Gill; and Opisthoncma oglinum by LeSueur. Due to the unusual geographical characteristics of the state of Rhode Island and the islands within its boundaries marine fishes occur in a wide variety of physical and biological conditions. Salt marshes, estuaries, salt water ponds, rocky shoals and open sea off Block Island provide the habitats for anadromous, catadromous, benthic, oceanic, pelagic and coastal fishes. The purpose of this book is to provide a revised and briefly annotated list of the Rhode Island marine fishes. The data for this publication was collected by the author from 1954 to 1959 while a student at the University of Rhode Island and biology instructor at Rhode Island College. An intensive survey was made of Rhode Island marine fish species recording 215 distinct species indigenous to local waters. II. History of Rhode Island Ichthyology Very little has been published on the classification of marine fishes of Rhode Island. The first systematic contribution was "List of Fishes of Narragansett Bay" by H. C. Bumpus (1900). This list laid the groundwork for H. C. Tracy's "Annotated List of Fishes Known to Inhabit the Waters of Rhode Island" (1910). This list has not been revised since that time. With reference to adjacent waters Linsley (1844) published a catalogue of the fishes of Connecticut. Storer (1839) reported on the ichthyofauna of Massachusetts. T. H. Bean (1901) compiled a catalogue of the fishes of Long Island Sound. The fishes of New Jersey were recorded by Fowler (1906). Nichols and Breder (1927) published "The Marine Fishes of New York and Southern New England." Hilde- brand and Schroeder (1928) followed with "Fishes of Chesapeake Bay." "The Fishes of the Gulf of Maine," Bigelow and WTelch (1925) has been revised by Bigelow and Schroeder (1953). The latter two publications cover areas removed from Rhode Island, but provide useful data relating to species inhabiting the waters of Rhode Island. The commercial fishery of Rhode Island is discussed by Goode (1884); McFarland (1911); and Ackerman (1941) and traces the development of the New England fisheries including Rhode Island's part in their growth. Recently, "Studies on the Marine Resources of Southern New England" published by the Bingham Ocea- nographic Laboratory of Yale University contains excellent life history details of certain fishes indigenous to Block Island Sound. Discussion of the trash fishery and pelagic fish eggs were also made. Publications by Morrow (1951), Warfel and Merriman (1944), Sanders (1952) and Merriman and Sclar (1952) are of special interest. Notes on unusual southern species occurring in Rhode Island waters have appeared in Copeia, Arnold (1949, 1951) and Morrow (1956). The taxonomic status of Rhode Island fishes can be obtained from: Jordan and Evermann (1896 1900), Evermann and Marsh (1902), Beebe and Tee-Van ( 1933), Breder (1929), and Bigelow and Schroeder, Part 1 (1948), Part 2 (1955). A preliminary report of the Rhode Island trash fishery 1954 1955 by J- J- Graham (ms.) provides useful information on the life histories and distribution of trash fish species. Interim Report No. 2, "Species Composition of the 1957 In- dustrial Trawl Fish Landings in New England" by R. L. Edwards (1958) contains considerable data on the 1957 industrial fish land- ings at Point Judith. III. The Survey of Rhode Island Fishes A. AREA COVERED The area of this investigation (Fig. 1) encompasses the eastern ends of Fisher's Island Sound and Long Island Sound, Block Island Sound and Rhode Island Sound. Coastal streams and rivers are included as far as the limit of tidal influence. The salt ponds of Rhode Island were also studied. Since many of the larger Rhode Island fishing vessels fish on the edge of the continental shelf beyond Block Island, species found in these waters are included. B. MATERIALS AND METHODS At the inception of this project five-gallon containers of ten per cent formalin were placed at the Point Judith Co-op Dock, Point Judith; Tallman and Mack Trap Dock, Newport; and Bindloss Dock, Stonington, for the preservation of unusual fish species taken by the trawl and trap fishermen off the Rhode Island coast. During the summer of 1957 additional containers were located at Clark's Dock, Jerusalem, and on the dragger Jane Dore. The latter location provided the greatest number of specimens. In addition to periodic visits to the docks to observe fish un- loading operations, frequent trips were made on trawl vessels as well as to the fish traps in order to collect specimens. During the summer and fall of 1957 cooperation with a group of haul seiners operating in the vicinity of Watch Hill provided some specimens. Collections were made at the mouth of the Pawcatuck River with a fifty-foot minnow seine with ' _{ inch mesh. Through the cooperation of the Rhode Island Division of Fish and Game two gallons of rotenone were obtained and used in small tidal pools of Winnapaug Pond at Weekapaug. Several very 4 OCEAN Figure 1. Map showing area included in survey of marine fishes of Rhode Island uncommon specimens (Chaetodon, Pseudopriacanthus) were col- lected by this method. Specimens collected by members of the Narragansett Marine Laboratory were observed and recorded along with much of the raw data collected by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Narragansett Bay Hurricane Barrier Control Project. Observations by J. Watson, D. Horton and S. B. Saila provided useful data for this project. Measurements of fishes studied in this investigation were made of the total length extending from the tip of the snout to the end of the caudal fin. Measurements under six inches were made in millimeters and those over six inches in inches and feet. The majority of the fishes collected in this survey have been pre- served in labeled containers with ten per cent formalin and are located in the University of Rhode Island, Zoology Department and in the collection of the Biology Department of Rhode Island College. Several sampling methods such as trapping, seining and rotenone were utilized in order to obtain species from diverse habitats. Identification and taxonomic arrangement of collected specimens were established by use of the following references: Beebe and Tee-Van (1928, 1933); Berg (1947); Bigelow and Schroeder (1948, 1953 a, 1953 b); Blair et al (1957); Breder (1929); Chute (1948); Evermann and Marsh (1902); Goode and Bean (1895); Guenther and Deckart (1956); Hildebrand and Schroeder (1928); Johnson (1902); Jordan (1905, 1925); Jordan and Evermann (1896-1900, 1902); Jordan et al (1930); LaMonte (1946); Nichols and Breder (1927), Norman and Eraser (1949) and Schultz (1948). Two hundred black and white photographs and kodachrome transparencies were made of the majority of the fish specimens collected. These illustrations are in the possession of the author. IV. Rhode Island Species Class AGNATHA Jawless Fishes Subclass CYCLOSTOMATA Order PETROMYZON IDA Family Petromyzonidae Genus Petromyzon (1) Petromyzon marinus Linnaeus 1758 Sea lamprey, lamper eel, stone sucker Specimens: (PLATE 1) Two, 8.5 and 11 inches (TL)* were taken in an otter trawl three miles SE of Watch Hill on January 21, 1953 with a catch of sea herring and alewives. S. B. Saila reports finding one ammocoete of this species in Abbott's Run in Cumberland during the spring of 1955. Tracy mentioned that ripe lampreys were taken in Taunton River during the latter part of May, 1898. Economic Importance: Virtual destruction of the lake trout fishery in the Great Lakes is due to this species. In Rhode Island waters it is relatively rare and of little importance. The flesh is edible and the larval forms are sometimes used as bait. Class CHONDRICHTHYES Cartilaginous Fishes Subclass ELASMOBRANCFII1 Order SELACHII Family Carchariidae Genus Carcharias (2) Carcharias taurus Rafinesque 1810 Dogfish shark, sand shark, ground shark, sand tiger * total length Specimens : Many specimens from four to eight feet (TL) were observed in the fish traps at Point Judith and Newport during June and July, 1957. Trawl vessels frequently encounter this species in Block Island Sound. Economic Importance: At present this species is of little economic importance. Small specimens are sometimes utilized with the trash fish for fish meal. At one time this and other shark species were fished for their hide (shagrin) which was processed into leather. Family Isuridae Genus Lamna (3) Lamna nasus (Bonnaterre) 1788 Porbeagle, blue shark, mackerel shark Specimens: This species has occasionally been observed by the writer in traps at Point Judith during July and August in association with mackerel and butterfish. It is also taken by trawl vessels in Block Island Sound during the summer. Individual specimens observed ranged in size from four to eight feet (TL). Economic Importance: This species is edible. Its flesh is white, resembling swordfish in taste and appearance. Larger specimens are frequently dressed and shipped to the New York market from Point Judith. Smaller porbeagles are cut up and placed in with the trash fish or discarded. Genus Isurus (4) Isurus oxyrinchus Rafinesque IS 10 Mackerel shark, mako, Atlantic mako Specimens: (PLATE 2) It is a common visitor to Block Island Sound during summer months. Six specimens were hooked on Nebraska Shoal off Charles- town and Southwest Ledge off Block Island during the 1957 L nited s States Atlantic Tuna Tournament. On August 24, 1957, a 12 foot mako was washed up on the rocks near the Watch Hill lighthouse. This specimen, a female, appeared to have died while giving birth because a large yolk sac was protruding from the uterus. This species is ovoviviparous, and the young are very large at birth. Positive identification of the Watch Hill specimen was established by studying the shape of the teeth. Makos finning on the surface are occasionally harpooned by swordfishermen in New England waters. Economic Importance: Because this species is a fast swimmer and has the habit of leaping clear of the surface of the water when hooked, it is highly regarded by sports fishermen. This species is edible and is sometimes sent to market by commercial fishermen. Genus Carcharodoii (5) Carcharodon carcharias (Linnaeus) 1758 Great white shark, maneater, white shark Specimens: (PLATES 3, 4) On May 30, 1939, a small member of this species, about five feet long, was taken in a pound net at Sakonnet. The trap off the Point Judith breakwater contained a seven foot maneater on June 23, 1955. This fish was observed thrashing violently in the nets which contained butterfish and squid. Considerable difficulty was ex- perienced in extricating this specimen from the trap. Five maneaters were taken in the Point Judith traps during the summer of 1956, but none were encountered here in 1957. This species is the most vicious member of the shark family on the Atlantic coast and it has been known to attack humans. Economic Importance: Acknowledged by many as the best tasting member of the shark family, the maneater is sometimes dressed and sent to market. This species is generally avoided by commercial fishermen because of its vicious nature and large teeth. Family Cetorhinidae Genus Cetorhinus (6) Cetorhinus maximus (Gunnerus) 1765 Basking shark, bone shark Specimens: (PLATE 5) This is the largest species of fish which occurs in Rhode Island waters. In European waters it has been known to reach lengths of 40 to 50 feet. During June and July, 1956, four basking sharks, ranging in size from 12 to 20 feet were captured in the floating traps at Point Judith by W. Clark. Due to their large size, these fish were released. Economic Importance During the nineteenth century there was an extensive fishery for the basking shark. It was taken by harpoon for the oil content of its liver. Today it is pursued only in the Irish Sea. The flesh is soft and not very palatable. Family Alopiidae Genus Alopias (7) Alopias vulpinus (Bonnaterre) 1788 Thresher shark, thrasher, swiveltail, whiptail Specimens: (PLATE 6) This species has been described as the most common shark on the continental shelf off Block Island. It appears in May, and is most plentiful in June, remaining until autumn. On September 3, 1956, the trawl vessel Jane Dore captured two thresher sharks in one drag of an otter trawl net four miles SE of Watch Hill. One of the threshers was seven feet long and weighed 65 pounds; the other measured 12 feet and weighed approximately 450 pounds. This species occasionally appear in the fish traps as it feeds on most schooling fishes such as mackerel, herring and menhaden. Thresher sharks are one of the few species of fish known to attack schools of bluefish. Economic Importance: This fish is occasionally sent to market as the flesh is moderately 10 good. Fishermen generally consider this species a nuisance because it tends to snarl and tangle nets. Family ( >rectolobidae Genus Gingly mo stoma (8) Ginglymo stoma cirratum (Bonnaterre) 1788 Nurse shark, carpet shark Specimens: This shark has been reported by II. S. Champlin as being taken from a pound net at Point Judith during the summer of 1920 (Nichols and Breder: 1927, p. 1 1). It is generally found from North Carolina to southern Brazil. Identification of this species is simple as it has a fleshy barbel at each corner of a quadrangular flap in front of the mouth. Therefore, there appears to be no reason to question the authenticity of the report. Economic Importance: This species has a very hard, smooth skin which is the most desirable of all shark leathers and brings the highest prices. On the islands off the southern coast of Brazil the otoliths of this species are used by local fishermen as a diuretic. Family Scyliorhinidae Genus Scyliorhinus (9) Scyliorhinus retifer (Carman) 1881 Chain dogfish Specimens: This species is frequently taken on the tilefish grounds of the edge of the continental slope off Block Island by offshore trawlers. A member of this species was taken on October 20, 1954, in 29 fathoms off Point Judith by the dragger William Cheseboroii^h. The chain dogfish is of no economic importance. Family Triakidae Genus Mustelns (10) M ustelus cams (Mitchili) 1815 Atlantic smooth dogfish, smooth hound, grayfish n Specimens: This species is very common in inshore Rhode Island waters during the summer months. The smooth dogfish is the second most abundant shark species along the southern coast of New England. The spiny dogfish (p. 15) is the most numerous shark. Specimens taken locally by traps and trawlers range from one to five feet. Economic Importance: Small specimens are utilized with the trash species. They are frequently hooked by anglers as they take squid and clam baits readily. Family Garcharhinidae Genus Galeocerdo (11) Galeocerdo cuvier (LeSueur) 1822 Tiger shark, leopard shark Specimens: This species is a casual visitor to southern New England in late summer and fall. It is common to the waters around Florida and the Caribbean. There is one record from Rhode Island, a male, 1,245 mm. (49 inches) (TL) from Newport (Harv. Mus. Comp. Zool., No. 35145). This species is brown with dark spots along its sides. Economic Importance: This species is of no economic importance in Rhode Island waters. In southern waters where there is a shark fishery, its skin and liver are utilized. Genus Paragaleus (12) Paragaleus pectoralis (Garman) 1913 Specimens: One record is available. This is a type specimen, female, 651 mm. (TL) (Harv. Mus. Comp. Zool, No. 847). All that is known of the one specimen on record is that Garman obtained it from a public aquarium known as the "Aquarial Gardens" with specimens ob- 12 tained "off the coasts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island" (Bigelow and Schroeder 1953 a). Genus Prionace (13) Prionace glauca (Linnaeus) 1758 Great blue shark, blue dog Specimens: Frequently observed by trawl vessels during the summer, this species rarely strays inshore. On August 22, 1943, twenty-eight members of this species were observed in one hour at a distance from four to ten miles off Block Island. In Rhode Island waters this species ranges in size from about two to twelve feet. The blue shark is of no commercial importance at present. Genus Carcharhinus (14) Carcharhinus milbcrti (Muller and Henle) 1841 Sandbar shark, brown shark Specimens: A specimen 7.25 feet (TL), weighing 160 pounds, was taken at Breton's Reef, September, 1842 (Tracy 1910). Two or three foot specimens are occasionally taken in Newport traps during August and September. It is rather common off Rhode Island during the warmer months, occasionally entering Narragansett Bay. It has been reported by commercial fishermen off Block Island from May to November. Economic Importance: In the Florida shark fishery, it is of considerable commercial importance, but in Rhode Island waters it is usually utilized with the trash species or discarded. (15) Carcharhinus obscurus LeSueur 1818 Dusky shark, shovelnose Specimens: The dusky shark frequently occurs in the Rhode Island traps. A four foot dusky shark was taken in the trap off the Point Judith 13 breakwater, July 11, 1957, and positive identification was established by the shape of the teeth. Economic Importance: This species is not plentiful enough anywhere along the entire Atlantic coast to be of any economic importance. Family Sphyrnidae Genus Sphyma (16) Sphyma tiburo (Linnaeus) 1758 Bonnethead shark, shovelhead, bonnet shark Specimens: This is a tropical species generally found from North Carolina to Brazil. Bigelow and Schroeder (1953) report one stray specimen taken at Newport, one from Massachusetts Bay and six specimens about four feet long taken in Nantucket Sound during the summer of 1918. Economic Importance: Due to its scarcity in northern waters, this species is of no eco- nomic importance off the Rhode Island coast. (17) Sphyma zygaena (Linnaeus) 1758 Hammerhead shark, common hammerhead Specimens: (PLATE 7) This species occasionally occurs in Rhode Island waters and is sometimes taken by trawl fishermen from June to October. A few small specimens are taken by Newport and Point Judith trap fishermen each year. Although most specimens taken are small, Tracy (1910) mentions a female hammerhead, 9 feet 10 inches (TL) taken August 14, 1907, in a trap at the north end of Conanicut Island. Economic Importance: Although slightly more plentiful in Rhode Island waters than the bonnethead shark (p. 14), this species is of no economic im- portance locally. 14 Family Squalidae Genus Squalus (18) Squalus acanthias Linnaeus 1758 Atlantic spiny dogfish, dogfish, grayfish Specimens: (PLATE 8) This species is the most common member of the shark family appearing in Rhode Island waters. It is abundant during tin- spring, summer and fall months. This species ranges from 6.5 inches at birth to a maximum of 4 feet (Gordon 1956 1). Economic Importance: Chiefly a trash species utilized for reduction in Rhode Island, this species is sometimes filleted and sent to the New York market under the name of grayfish. In Great Britain and northern Europe this species is of considerable commercial value as a food fish. Frequently taken by hook and line, the spiny dogfish should be handled with caution since Norman (1931) states that the spine of this species has a mild poison capable of inflicting intense pain and discomfort. During 1957, 26,000 pounds of grayfish valued at SI 37 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Family Squatinidae Genus Squatina (19) Squatina dumeril (LeSueur) 1818 Angel shark, Atlantic monkfish Specimens: (PLATE 9) Four members of this species have been recorded from Rhode Island and vicinity. Two were recorded by Tracy (1910), from Newport and West Passage. A four-foot angel shark was taken in October, 1948, by the trawler Eleanor on the Mussel Bed, 6 miles SE of Point Judith, in 18 fathoms. Another was taken by the trawler R. ]V. Griffin, Jr., January 15, 1955, in 55 fathoms, south of Block Island. The latter monkfish weighed 22 pounds and had a total length of three feet. It was described by Gordon (1955 c, 1956 n). 15 Economic Importance : This species is too rare to be of economic importance in Rhode Island. Order BATOIDEI Family Torpedinidae Genus Torpedo (20) Torpedo nobiliana Bonaparte 1835 Atlantic torpedo, electric ray, numbfish, crampfish Specimens: This species is frequently taken near Block Island and Sakonnet during the summer months, according to Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 a), and Tracy (1910). Commercial fishermen have reported to the author its infrequent appearance in Block Island Sound during the summers of 1956-57. The Atlantic torpedo is of no economic importance. Family Rajidae Genus Raja (21) Raja laevis Mitchill 1817 Barndoor skate, peck-nosed skate, sharp-nosed skate Specimens: (PLATE 10) This species is a very common skate which has been observed throughout the year in catches of Rhode Island trawlers. This is the largest species of skate found in Rhode Island waters. Speci- mens observed reached a length of five feet (TL) and weight of 35 pounds. This species is found in deeper waters in the summer and inshore areas in spring and fall. Description and photographs of this species occur in Gordon (1957 n). Economic Importance: Skates are chiefly utilized as a trash species for rendering into fish meal. Occasionally they are shipped to the New York fish markets under the name of rajafish. Some fishermen have been known to cut out sections of skate wings and sell them as sea scallops. 16 (22) Raja ocellata Mitchill L815 Big skate, spotted skate, eyed skate, winter skate Specimens: This species is very common in inshore waters during win tit- months. It tends to go into deeper waters in summer. More pounds of the big skate were landed in the Rhode Island trash fishery from June, 1954, to May, 1955, than any other species of skate (Graham, unpublished manuscript). Numerous specimens from two to three feet in total length were examined. (23) Raja eglanteria Bosc 1802 Clearnose skate, brier skate, summer skate Specimens: This is a southern species of skate which is found in Rhode Island waters only during the summer and fall. Specimens two to three feet in total length were examined during August and September, 1957. (24) Raja garmani Whitley 1939 Rosetted skate, leopard skate Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 a, 1953 b) mention that this species is restricted to depths greater than 35-40 fathoms and is one of the most abundant skates found offshore along southern New England. The above references cite specimens taken from off of Montauk Point and off Block Island. An 11 inch leopard skate was taken May 8, 1957, off Block Island by the trawler Dauntless. (25) Raja erinacea Mitchill 1825 Little skate, prickly skate, summer skate Specimens: This is not only the most common skate along the coast of New England, but the most familiar because of its habit of coming into shoal water (Bigelow and Schroeder 1953 a). The little skate ranks third in numerical abundance in the Rhode Island trash fishery (Graham, unpublished manuscript). This species has been observed by the writer throughout the year in the catch of Rhode Island 17 trawl vessels. On March 2, 1958, an egg case of this species taken four miles SE of Watch Hill, was obtained from the trawler Old Mystic. It contained an embryo 80 mm. (TL) with the yolk sac still attached. (26) Raja scuta Garman 1885 Smooth skate, smooth-tailed skate Specimens: According to Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 a, 1953 b) this species was captured at 50 to 250 fathoms off southern New England and occurs along the upper part of the continental slope in the vicinity of southern Xew England. (27) Raja radio ta Donovan 1807 Thorny skate, starry skate Specimens: This is not common in inshore waters of southern New England due to the fact that it is found exclusively at temperatures of 50° F. or less. It occurs on the edge of the continental shelf off southern New England and a specimen was taken 25 miles off the eastern end of Long Island at a depth of 32 fathoms (Bigelow and Schroeder 1953 a). Family Dasyatidae Genus Dasyatis (28) Dasyatis centroura (Mitchill) 1815 Stingray, stingaree, ray Specimens: (PLATE 11) This species of stingray is common in the traps at Point Judith during June, July and August. In 1955 they were very abundant and five or six specimens were observed in one haul of the trap off the Point Judith breakwater. These rays ranged in size from four to eight feet (TL). Descriptions and photographs of these specimens can be found in Gordon (1955 i). Economic Importance: When taken in the traps, the tail is almost immediately severed as it possesses a knifelike poisonous blade near the base capable of 18 inflicting extremely painful injury. Large specimens are usually cut up into small pieces and sold to the industrial fish plants. Family Gymnuridae Genus Gym nurd (29) Gymnura altavela (Linnaeus) 1758 Butterfly ray Specimens: There are three records of this species from Rhode Island. One specimen, six feet seven inches wide from Newport, was the basis for LeSueur's (1817) species maclura. One specimen 23 inches (TL) taken during July, 1900, in Narragansett Bay is noted by Tracy (1910). The most recent record of this rare species was a four feet wide ray taken at Point Judith in August, 1949, Arnold (1951). Family Myliobatidae Genus Myliobatis (30) Myliobatis frcminvilli LeSueur 1824 Bullnose ray, eagle ray Specimens: The original type specimen of this species described by LeSueur was taken in 1824 from Rhode Island. Tracy (1910) mentions this species appearing in traps near Saunderstown. Fowler (1917) notes one member of this species taken at Newport. Family Rhinopteridae Genus Rhinoptcra (31) Rhinoptera bonasns (Mitchill) 1815 Cow-nosed ray Specimens: (PLATE 12) Tracy (1910) mentions an immense school of these fishes seen off Block Island by Captain Mason of Tiverton. An immature male of this species from Newport (Harv. Mus. Comp. Zool., No. 746). 567 mm. wide, appears in Figure 107 of Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 a). On October 3, 1957, one specimen with a total length of three feet was taken by the trawler Jane Dore four miles south of Watch Hill. 19 Family Mobulidae Genus Mania (32) Mania birostris (Donndorff) 1798 Devil ray, manta ray, devil fish Specimens: One record of this species occurs from Rhode Island. In August, 1921, a giant manta, 19 feet wide was harpooned 10 miles off Block Island by a swordfisherman and brought to the island. Class OSTEICHTHYES Bony Fishes Family Acipenseridae Genus Acipenser (33) Acipenser sturio Linnaeus 1758 Sea sturgeon, common sturgeon Specimens: (PLATE 14) The sea sturgeon is found in Rhode Island waters from May to November. Specimens two and eight feet (TL) have been noted in local waters by the writer. A sturgeon, six feet four inches (TL) and weighing 126 pounds was captured seven miles up the Pawcatuck River below the Stillmanville Bridge by Frank Muoio of Westerly using eel spears during October, 1955. Examination of the ovaries demonstrated only a few small eggs. Photographs and description of this species are found in Gordon (1958 b). Economic Importance: Sturgeons are dressed and sent to market where they usually bring good prices. The meat is sometimes cured or smoked and the eggs are processed into caviar. During 1957, Rhode Island fishermen landed 3,698 pounds of sturgeon valued at S557. (34) Acipenser brevirostrum LeSueur 1818 Shortnose sturgeon, little sturgeon Specimens: This species is smaller and less common than the sea sturgeon. A 2.5 foot (TL) shortnose sturgeon was taken in May, 1956, in the 20 traps at Point Judith. A 28 inch (TL) fish, believed to be a short- nosed sturgeon, was taken by J. Watson in Narrangansett Bay in the spring of 1957. Family Siluridae Genus Bagre (35) Bagre marinns (Mitchill) 1815 Gafftopsail catfish Specimens: Tracy (1910) reported a specimen taken at Brenton Reef Light- ship, September 16, 1898. Members of this species from Newport are found in the Powell Collection of Boston Society of Natural History. Genus Galeichthyes (36) Galeichthyes jells (Linnaeus) 1766 Sea catfish Specimens: Tracy (1910) states this species is rare in Rhode Island and men- tions one specimen from Narragansett Bay. No date of capture or size is given. None were observed or captured during this survey. Family Elopidae Genus Elops (37) Elops saurus Linnaeus 1766 Ten pounder, big-eyed herring Specimens: This herring-like fish is common in southern waters but is rare locally. Two specimens, 14 and 16 inches (TL), were taken by the trawler Jane Dore, October 17, 1957, three miles SE of Watch Hill. Tracy (1910) mentions a 14 inch ten pounder taken October 29, 1905, in a trap at Dutch Island Harbor, Narrangansett Bay. Genus Tarpon (38) Tarpon atlanticns (Cuvier and Valenciennes) 1846 Tarpon, Atlantic tarpon, silver-king 21 Specimens: This fish is a rare straggler to Rhode Island waters. The last record of its appearance was on August 23, 1953, when one speci- men weighing 85 pounds and two 60 pound fish were taken in traps off Ledge Road, Newport. This was the first appearance of tarpon in Newport waters since 1919, when one was taken in a trap. Tracy (1910) mentions five tarpon taken in August, 1906, from a Newport trap off Second Beach near Purgatory Point, Newport. Family Dussumieriidae Genus Etrumeus (39) Etrumeus sadina (Mitchill) 1815 Round herring Specimens: This species, the most slender of the herring family, is common in southern waters and is an occasional visitor to New England waters. Tracy (1910) cites a member of this species in the United States National Museum taken at Newport by S. Powell. None were observed or recorded during this survey. Family Clupeidae Genus Clupea (40) Clupea harengus Linnaeus 1758 Sea herring, blue back, sardine Specimens: (PLATE 15) This species was observed to appear in large schools in Block Island Sound from January to March. Considerable annual fluctua- tion occurs in the abundance of this species. From Table 1, page S3, it is evident that 1949 and 1952 were years of greatest abundance. During mild winters the sea herring catch declines in Rhode Island waters. Sanders (1952) noted sea herring present in Block Island Sound from January 6 to March 15, 1951. The mature individuals formed the major portion of the herring population until early February, after which juveniles were dominant. During January and Feb- ruary the fish were found in the coldest water, which was a narrow 22 band near and parallel to the shore. They later dispersed widely as the Sound waters became warmer. Sanders also found that the most important single food organism was the copepod Pseudocalanus minutus which constituted more than seventy per cent of the food by number. Specimens collected by the writer ranged from four to fifteen inches (TL). Economic Importance: The herring is one of the most important food fishes in the world. During 1957, 296,833 pounds of sea herring were landed at Rhode Island ports. These fish were valued at $12,892. In addition, large quantities of this species were utilized as trash fish for reduction. Young herring four to six inches long are canned as sardines. The smaller herring are usually sorted out by the fishermen as they bring higher prices. Special efforts are sometimes made to capture juvenile herring due to their attractive price. Genus Pomolobus (41) Pomolobus mediocris (Mitchill) 1815 Hickory shad, hickory jack, hick Specimens: This species is common at the Point Judith traps from April through fall. Draggers take large numbers of hickory shad in Block Island Sound during spring and fall. This species is the second largest of the anadromous herrings and reaches lengths up to two feet. Most Rhode Island specimens examined ranged from 10 to 16 inches (TL). Economic Importance: In Rhode Island, this species is usually utilized as trash fish or sold to lobster fishermen as bait for their pots. Farther south, where it is more abundant, this species is sometimes sent to market. (42) Pomolobus pscudoharcngus (Wilson) 1811 Alewife, sawbelly, buckie, river herring 23 Specimens : This species enters Rhode Island rivers and streams in the early spring. Large spawning runs appear in March, April and May in Pettaquamscutt River. Specimens examined on this spawning run averaged between 10 and 12 inches (TL). Females of this species average 15 mm. more in length than males of the same age accord- ing to Nichols and Breder (1927). Economic Importance: Since colonial times, the spawning run of this species has been harvested with dip nets and seines. Some are smoked and marketed as buckies, others are cured in salt and vinegar for making such special products as bismark herring and rollmops. Large quantities from the middle Atlantic states are canned. Pearl essence is made from the scales and large quantities are utilized for fish meal. Fluctuations of the Rhode Island alewife fishery during the last decade are noted in Table 1, page 83. During 1957, 29,340 pounds of alewives were taken from Rhode Island waters, valued at $242. (43) Pomolobus aestivalis (Mitchill) 1815 Glut herring, blackback, blueback, greenback Specimens: This species is very similar to the alewife, but is less numerous. It appears two weeks to a month later than the alewife. The glut herring has a black peritoneum, whereas the alewife has a pale peritoneum. When fresh, the dorsal surface of the glut herring ap- pears darker than the alewife. Both species have similar spawning habits and there is usually no commercial distinction made between the glut herring and the alewife. Genus Alosa (44) Alosa sapidissima (Wilson) 1811 Shad Specimens: (PLATE 16) Shad one to two feet (TL) have been taken in the Point Judith traps during April and May. Specimens of the same size are taken occasionally by the draggers in Block Island Sound during the 24 winter and early spring. Young shad have been observed in the Pawcatuck, Pettaquamscutt and Warren Rivers. The largest ob- served by the writer was 27 inches (TL), weighing eight pounds. It was taken in a trap off the Point Judith breakwater during May, 1956. The shad is the largest member of the herring family. During 1957, 4,483 pounds of shad valued at $208 were landed at Rhode Island ports. The shad is one of our better food fishes and its roe is highly prized as a delicacy. Fifty years ago shad was among the top three species of fish on the Atlantic coast in pounds landed. It has declined to thirtieth position with regard to poundage during 1957. The three major causes of the shad decline are over- fishing, pollution and erection of dams which prevent the fish from reaching their spawning grounds. Genus Opisthoncma (45) Opisthonema oglinum (LeSueur) 1817 Thread herring, hairy-back, shad-herring Specimens: This tropical species is plentiful in the West Indies and occa- sionally strays to the Massachusetts coast. The type specimen of this species was taken at Newport. Tracy (1910) mentions a speci- men taken by the United States Fish Commission at Newport which is in the United States National Museum. This very rare species has appeared several times in the fish traps at Newport and Point Judith during the past decade, according to the fishermen. However, no specimens were actually observed in this survey. Genus Brevoortia (46) Brevoortia tyr annus (Latrobe) 1802 Menhaden, bonyfish, pogy, bunker Specimens: (PLATE 17) The menhaden is the most abundant of the migratory species which visit Rhode Island waters. During 1957, 19,777,660 pounds were taken chiefly in Block Island Sound. The peak of abundance occurs in August and September. The greatest part of the catch is taken by purse seiners. Draggers and trap fishermen also land considerable quantities. 25 This species has been observed to spawn in local waters. When rotenone was spread in a tidal pool off Winnapaug Pond in Weeka- paug, on September 19, 1957, a large quantity of three-inch juvenile menhaden were collected. A month later, rotenone in the same area demonstrated the menhaden still present, and on the average, one inch longer in length. The majority of the adult menhaden viewed in the nets and traps ranged from 10 to 12 inches (TL). Photographs and detailed description of Rhode Island menhaden appear in Gordon (1957 b). Economic Importance: The meal made from menhaden is used in fertilizers, animal and poultry feeds. The oil from this species is utilized in the manufac- ture of paint, soap, candles, printing inks and insect sprays. During 1957, more pounds of menhaden were landed at Rhode Island ports than in any previous year. The catch was 19,777,600 pounds valued at $235,837. Because the menhaden is so oily, it is not utilized directly as a food fish. It is utilized as chum for tuna and bluefish, or for lobster bait. Family Engraulidae Genus Anchoa (47) Anchoa mitchilli (Cuvier and Valenciennes) 1848 Anchovy Specimens: This small species, ranging in size from two to three and a half inches (TL) is found in Rhode Island waters in coves, bays and river mouths from May to October. Numerous specimens were collected at the mouth of the Pawcatuck River in a minnow seine during July and August, 1957. This species was also found Sep- tember 19, 1957, at Weekapaug, using rotenone. Economic Importance: In Europe, anchovies are salted and canned for use as hors d'oeuvres. In this country, they are of slight importance, a few being canned and the rest being used as baitfish. During 1957, 7,173 pounds of anchovies were recorded from Rhode Island. They were valued at $180. 26 (48) Anchoa hepsetus (Linnaeus) 1758 Striped anchovy Specimens: This species is similar to Anchoa mitchilli, but has a bright silvery hand along the side. Tracy (1910) mentions a one and a half inch specimen taken in Narragansett Hay in Novemher, 1898. On August 8, 1957, I). Horton captured 30 members of this species in a minnow seine in upper Pettaquamscutt River, according to Horton (1958). Family Salmonidae Genus Sahelinus (49) Sahelinus fontinalis (Mitchill) 1815 Brook trout, sea trout, Salter Specimens: Although chiefly a fresh water species, brook trout occasionally head down coastal streams and rivers into salt water. Brook trout have been recorded from the tidal regions of the Pawcatuck and Pettaquamscutt Rivers. Because of their scarcity in salt water, they are of no economic importance in the marine environment. On October 23, 1956, a mature male brook trout, 12.5 inches (TL) was caught at Green Hill pond with fyke net by S. B. Saila. Genus Salmo (50) Salmo solar Linnaeus 1758 Atlantic salmon, sea salmon Specimens: This species is a rare visitor to Rhode Island waters. One or two Atlantic salmon are taken each summer in the fish traps at Point Judith. On June 11, 1957, a 26 inch (TL) specimen, weighing eight pounds, was taken in the trap off the Point Judith breakwater. Family Osmeridae Genus Osmcrus (51) Osmcrus mordax (Mitchill) IS 15 Smelt 27 Specimens: (PLATE 18) This anadromous species which was once plentiful in all the coastal rivers and streams of the state is now restricted to the Pawcatuck River, Taunton River and a small area of Mount Hope Bay. Their spawning migrations occur in the spring. On March 11, 1958, smelt were first observed and captured in the Pawcatuck River on their annual run. They ranged in size from 8 to 12 inches (TL). Additional information and photographs of this species can be found in Gordon (1958 a). Economic Importance: This species has widespread appeal as a table fish. Family Synodontidae Genus Synodus (52) Synodus foetens (Linnaeus) 1766 Lizard fish, sand pike Specimens: A nine inch (TL) lizard fish was taken by the trawler Jane Dore on October 10, 1957, six miles east of Watch Hill Point. A lizard fish was taken by J. Watson on October 8, 1957, NW of Hope Island in Narragansett Bay. This is a rare straggler from southern waters, and a few are taken each fall in Rhode Island waters. Family Esocidae Genus Esox (53) Esox niger (LeSueur) 1818 Eastern pickerel, chain pickerel Specimens: The pickerel is a fresh water species but it has been recorded from salt water environments. During 1957, D. Horton found pickerel in the upper Pettaquamscutt River with the salinity ranging from seven to ten parts per thousand (Horton 1958). Family Anguillidae Genus Anguilla 28 (54) Anguilla rostrata (LeSueur) 1817 Eel, common eel Specimens: (PLATES 19, 20) This catadromous species is common in the fresh, salt and brack- ish waters of Rhode Island. It is found in all of the coastal rivers and salt ponds of the state. During the spring, there is a migration of young eels two and three inches long up the coastal rivers. Numerous eels were collected in the Pawcatuck River and Little Narragansett Bay in eel pots, from May to October, 1957. These ranged in size from six inches to three feet (TL). Photographs and description of Rhode Island eels appear in Gordon (1957 i). Economic Importance: The eel is utilized chiefly as a baitnsh for striped bass and blue- fish. Eels are sometimes sold as food fish. In 1957, 869 pounds of eels valued at $196 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Conger (55) Conger oceanica (Mitchill) 1818 Conger eel, sea eel Specimens: This species is taken by trap fishermen and inshore and offshore trawlers. There are numerous records of this species from Rhode Island, ranging from three to six feet (TL). This species is much larger than the common eel and is frequently observed by skin divers. Economic Importance: During 1957, 24,443 pounds of conger eel valued at $690 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Family Alepisauridae Genus Alepiasaurus (56) Alepiasaurus ferox Lowe 1833 Lancetfish, handsawfish 29 Specimens: This is a rare oceanic species. Bigelow and Schroecier (1953 b) describe a five and a half foot lancetfish caught alive in the surf on Block Island, March 12, 1928. It was reported by Elizabeth Dickens. Family Poeciliidae Genus Fundulus (57) Fundulus heteroclitus (Linnaeus) 1766 Common mummichog, killifish, killy, mud minnow, mummy Specimens: This species is very common in salt marshes, brackish water, bays and inlets. Many specimens were captured throughout the year in minnow traps. Economic Importance: It is utilized chiefly as a baitfish for summer flounder. (58) Fundulus majalis (Walbaum) 1792 Striped mummichog Specimens: This species is similar in characteristics to Fundulus heteroclitus. It was observed by the writer in brackish waters at Watch Hill and Weekapaug. (59) Fundulus diaphanus (LeSueur) 1817 Fresh-water killifish Specimens : This species is found in brackish water streams close to salt water. Fforton found this species abundant in Pettaquamscutt River, according to Fforton (1958). Genus Cyprinodon (60) Cyprinodon variegatus Lacepede 1803 Sheepshead minnow, broad killyfish Specimens: This southern species of minnow is very common in many of Rhode Island's salt ponds. Specimens one to three inches (TL) were 30 collected in abundance in Winnapaug, Massachaug and Little Massachaug Ponds. Males of the species assume bright blue and orange colors during mating season. Family Belonidae Genus Tylosurus (61) Tylosurus marinus (Walbaum) 1792 Silver gar, garfish, billfish Specimens: This gar is an occasional visitor to Rhode Island waters. Tracy (1910) reports the capture of this species at Rocky Point, July 26, 1897; Wickford, August 28, 1905; and Cornelius Island, August 13, 1909. The writer collected two specimens, 18 inches (TL), from Clark's trap at Point Judith, on May 9, 1957. These are believed to be the earliest appearance records for this species in Rhode Island waters. Genus Ablcnncs (62) Ablcnncs hians (Cuvier and Valenciennes) 1846 Garfish, flat needlefish Specimens: This is a tropical species which resembles silver gar. A 14 inch specimen was taken by use of rotenone at Weekapaug on September 1<), 1957. Family Hemiramphidae Genus Hyporhamphus (63) Hyporhamphus unifasciatus (Ranzani) 1842 Halfbeak, skipjack Specimens: This species is in coastal waters during the summer. Specimens 8 to 12 inches (TL) were observed in Point Judith traps during July, 1957. Halfbeaks are found during late summer and fall in Newport traps. This species is sometimes used as a baitrish. Genus Eulcptorhamphus (64) Eulcptorhamphus velox (Poey) 1867 31 Specimens: Tracy (1910) cites a member of this rare West Indian species taken at Newport by a Mr. Brown. Family Scomberesocindae Genus Scomberesox (65) Scomberesox saurus (Walbaum) 1792 Needlefish, billfish, saury Specimens: This billfish is common in the Newport and Point Judith traps during July and August. Specimens from 8 to 16 inches (TL) were examined. Family Exocoetidae Genus Parexocoetus (66) Parexocoetus mesogaster (Bloch) 1795 Short-winged flyingfish, blackwing Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions a specimen of five and a half inches (TL) from Newport. It is located in the Museum of the Academy of Natural Sciences at Philadelphia. Genus Exocoetus (67) Exocoetus speculiger (Linnaeus) 1758 Flying fish Specimens: Tracy (1910) reports a specimen in the United States National Museum which was taken at Block Island in August, 1874. Genus Cypselurus (68) Cypselurus heterurus (Rafinesque) 1810 Flying fish, single-bearded flying fish Specimens: Tracy (1910) cites a specimen from Block Island mentioned by Goode. 32 (69) Cypselurus furcatus (Mitchill) 1815 Flying fish Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions two specimens from Newport five and a half inches and six inches (TL) in the Museum of the Academy of Natural Sciences at Philadelphia. (70) Cypselurus gibbifrons (Cuvier and Valenciennes) 1846 Blunt-nosed flying fish Specimens: Only two known specimens are on record; one taken by Samuel Powell at Newport according to Tracy (1910). Family Merlucciidae Genus Merluccius (71) Merluccius bilinear is (Mitchill) 1814 Whiting, silver hake, frostfish Specimens: (PLATE 21) The whiting is a permanent resident of Rhode Island waters and appears to be most abundant in late summer and fall. Graham (ms.) states that during the spring, large adult whiting moved inshore while young sometimes moved offshore. During winter months, small groups of whiting may get stranded by a receding tide on sandy beaches while chasing small baitfish. Specimens of whiting observed by the writer ranged from 6 to 20 inches. Economic Importance: Graham states that the whiting is the leading inshore species of trash fish. It also was the most numerous trash species in his 1954-5 study of the Rhode Island trash fishery. Edward's data shows whit- ing or silver hake as the leading trash fish species landed at Point Judith in 1957. Family Gadidae Genus Gadus 33 (72) Gadus callarias Linnaeus (1758) Cod, rock cod Specimens: (PLATE 22, 23) This cold water species is found in inshore Rhode Island waters in late fall, winter, and early spring. In the summer, cod move out to offshore cooler waters. The Rhode Island cod fishery is most intensive during the winter months when sizeable catches are made by the trawlers off the sandy beaches and shoal areas. During 1955, cod were present in the area of the Point Judith breakwater until May 30. A 40 inch (TL), 17 pound cod was taken in the traps at this time. Hook and line fishermen find late October and Novem- ber productive months for the fall run of cod. Economic Importance: The cod is one of the important species in the Rhode Island winter fishery. During 1957, 558,903 pounds of cod were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Microgadus (73) Microgadus tomcod (Walbaum) 1792 Tomcod, frost fish Specimens: This small coastal fish is present all year in Rhode Island waters. It is taken by trawlers, traps and anglers. During the winter months it is present in inshore waters and coastal streams. Specimens col- lected ranged from 8 to 14 inches. A 10-inch tomcod taken in November, 1956, examined by J. E. Watson, contained six parasitic copepods, Lemaeenicus radial us (LeSueur). Due to its small size and the small landings, this edible fish is not of great economic importance. (74) Melanogrammus aeglefinus (Linnaeus) 1758 Haddock Specimens: (PLATE 24) This cold water species is similar to the codfish in habits. During the winter months, good catches of haddock are made by the trawl 34 fleet off Block Island. Haddock from Block Island Sound examined in February and March, 1957, ranged from 14 to 35 inches (TL). Economic Importance: During 1957, 100,555 pounds of haddock valued at $7,019 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Pollachius (75) Pollachius virens (Linnaeus) 1758 Pollock, Boston bluefish Specimens: (PLATE 25) Similar in migratory habits to the cod, but a more active species, the pollock chases baitfish at all levels. Sizeable schools appear during spring migration in Block Island Sound. Large spring runs are evident in May off Newport, Point Judith and Watch Hill. A record pollock, 34 inches (TL) and weighing 16 pounds was taken off Watch Hill Reef on June 20, 1950, by G. A. Albrecht. Pollock observed included three fish ranging in weight from five to nine pounds taken May 30, 1953, at Catumb Reef, Watch Hill. On May 30, 1955, a 28-inch pollock (TL) weighing five pounds was speared by S. Isaacson, 200 yards off the west side of the Watch Hill lighthouse. Economic Importance: During 1957, 7,029 pounds of pollock valued at $213 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Urophycis (76) Urophycis tenuis (Mitchill) 1815 White hake, ling, Boston hake Specimens: White hake are abundant in Block Island Sound during spring, summer and fall. They are taken by trawlers and utilized chiefly as a trash species. Specimens observed ranged from 6 to 27 inches (TL). During 1957, 25,827 pounds of white hake valued at S744 were landed at Rhode Island ports for human consumption. (77) Urophycis cliuss (Walbaum) 1792 Red hake, ling, squirrel hake 35 Specimens: (PLATE 26) This is the most abundant of the hake species in Rhode Island waters. Red hake are the leading trash fish species from offshore grounds and the number two species in the trash fishery with regard to number of individuals. In the early spring, red hake are first taken in "30 fathom hole1' south of Block Island and by mid spring they are concentrated in large schools midway between Block Island and Montauk Point. Specimens observed ranged in size from 4 to 25 inches. During 1957, 28,966 pounds of red hake valued at $637 were landed at Rhode Island ports for human consumption. (78) Urophycis regius (Walbaum) 1792 Spotted hake, king hake Specimens: This species occurs in Rhode Island waters during late summer and fall. It is similar in habits to the other hakes, but is not as abundant. It occurs in Narragansett Bay and in the traps at Point Judith and Newport. Genus Enchelyopus (79) Enchelyopus cimbrius (Linnaeus) 1766 Four-bearded rockling Specimens: A deep water fish slightly resembling the hakes, this species sometimes straggles into inshore waters. Tracy (1910) mentions specimens taken by the Fish Hawk in 12.5 fathoms in Narragansett Bay and young specimens from Newport described by A. Agassiz. This species is not plentiful enough to be of any economic impor- tance. Edwards (1958) mentions approximately 7,000 pounds of this species in 1957 industrial fish landings. Genus Brosme (80) Brosme brosme (Muller) 1776 Cusk, tusk Specimens : This is a solitary deep water fish which is not too common. Tracy 36 (1910) records a specimen taken at Newport. Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 b) mention this species is rare in southern New England waters. Family Hippoglossidae Genus Hippoglossus (81) Hippoglossus hippoglossus (Linnaeus) 1758 Halibut Specimens: This northern water food fish is an uncommon stray into Rhode Island waters during winter and spring. A few are taken each year by trawlers off Block Island. This species is the largest of the flat fish family. Tracy (1910) mentions an 80 pound halibut taken off Watch Hill on May 1, 1876. On April 16, 1900, a 100 pound halibut was brought into Newport. During 1956, 99 pounds of halibut valued at $27 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Hippoglossoides (82) Hippoglossoides platessoides (Fabricius) 1780 Dab, rough dab, American dab, Canadian plaice Specimens: This species is common in North America deep water to southern New England. It approaches Newport and Block Island in winter months and is taken over sandy and mud bottoms by trawlers. Economic Importance: The dab is an excellent food fish. During 1956, 53,995 pounds of dab valued at $5,453 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Family Paralichthyidae Genus Paralichthys (83) Paralichthys dentatus (Linnaeus) 1766 Summer flounder, fluke, doormat, chicken halibut Specimens: (PLATE 27) The summer flounder is the largest member of the flounder family common in Rhode Island waters. During the warmer months of the year between May and October, this species is taken in com- 37 paratively shallow water, between one and twenty fathoms. With the coming colder water the fluke move out beyond the 20 fathom line and down to 100 fathoms according to Ginsberg (1952). Fluke, which are more plentiful than the blackback flounder in the summer months, are taken in sizeable amounts by trawlers, traps and sport fishermen. Summer flounder examined ranged in size from 11 to 32 inches (TL). Fluke are plentiful during the summer months in the tidal channels of the salt ponds. On August 14, 1958, a 16-pound summer flounder was caught by C. Martorelli at Beavertail light. Economic Importance: The summer flounder is one of the important food fishes found in Rhode Island waters. The meat is of excellent quality and highly regarded. During 1957, 1,484,499 pounds of fluke, valued at 8256,934, were landed at Rhode Island ports. (84) Paralichthys oblongus (Mitchill) 1815 Four-spotted flounder Specimens: This flounder occurs in waters from 5 to 15 fathoms during spring and summer. It is not as large nor as abundant as the summer flounder. This species possesses four prominent spots on the eyed side of the body which makes it distinct from other Rhode Island flounders. Fish ranging from 7 to 12 inches (TL) were examined from Block Island Sound. Economic Importance: This is a fair table fish, but due to its small size, it is usually treated as a trash species. Family Pleuronectidae Genus Limanda (85) Limanda ferruginea (Storer) 1839 Yellowtail, rusty dab Specimens: (PLATE 28) The yellowtail is a deep water flounder usually found in depths 38 of from 20 to 40 fathoms. On occasion they may stray inshore to shoaler waters. The yellow-tail is most abundant during the month of December, but it is taken by offshore trawlers throughout the year. Vellowtails 13 to 16 inches (TL) were taken on December 8, 1953, six miles SE of Watch Hill by the trawler Jane Dore. Economic Importance: The yellowtail is second in importance among the flounders taken by Rhode Island commercial fishermen with regard to poundage landed and dollar value. During 1957, 2,229,930 pounds of vellowtails, valued at 8213,427, were recorded at Rhode Island ports. Genus Pseudopleuronectes (86) Pseudopleuronectes americanus (Walbaum) 1792 Winter flounder, hlackback flounder, flatfish Specimens: (PLATE 29) This is the most important species of the flounder family inhabit- ing Rhode Island waters. Investigations by S. Saila (unpublished ms.) have shown that the spawning season of this valuable sport and commercial fish is at its height in Ninigret Pond in mid Eeb- ruary. Migration into the salt ponds begins in the fall and the exo- dus in late winter and early spring. This year-round resident mi- grates offshore in the spring and summer and inshore during the fall. During late summer and fall the trawlers make their largest catches of this species. The blackback is a bottom dwelling fish and provides considerable sport for anglers in the spring and fall. Economic Importance: The blackback is one of the thickest and meatiest of the flounders and is highly regarded as a food fish. Anglers seek this fish from bridges and channels along tidal waters with hooks baited with clam worms (Nereis), clam, or squid. The blackback is the first in importance among the flounders by weight in the commercial land- ings of Rhode Island. During 1957, 2,687,066 pounds valued at SI 83, 165 were unloaded at Rhode Island ports. 39 Genus Liopsetta (87) Liopsetta putnami Gill 1864 Smooth flounder, eel-back flounder, plaice Specimens: Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 b) state that this is an arctic-boreal species with stray specimens from as far south as Providence, R. I. Tracy (1910) mentions a specimen in the Museum of Comparative Zoology which came from Providence. This species is plentiful in northern New England, but rare in Rhode Island waters. It reaches a maximum length of 12 inches (TL) and a weight of 1.5 pounds, according to Breeder (1929). Genus Glyptocephalus (88) Glyptocephalus cynoglossus Linnaeus 1758 Gray sole, witch flounder, Craig flounder Specimens: This is a moderately deep water species which occurs off southern New England in water from 31 to 150 fathoms deep. Rhode Island offshore trawlers catch sizeable amounts of the gray sole in May and June. Economic Importance: During 1957, 34,268 pounds of gray sole valued at $4,091 were landed by Rhode Island commercial fishermen. Family Bothidae Genus Lophopsetta (89) Lophopsetta maculata (Mitchill) 1814 Sand flounder, sand dab, windowpane, sundial Specimens: (PLATE 30) This species is present the year round in Rhode Island waters from the shoreline to a depth of 30 fathoms. This is a very thin flatfish and it has received the name windowpane because when held up to the light you can see through it. Although edible, it is not usually utilized as a food fish and is utilized in the industrial fishery. 40 Genus Citharichtys (90) Citharichthyes arctifrons (Goode) 1880 Gulf stream flounder Specimens: Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 b) mention over one hundred of this species trawled by the Albatross III off Rhode Island on May 13, 1950, at 41 to 50 fathoms. A six-inch specimen was collected on April 20, 1957, from the trawler Dauntless off Block Island. The maximum length of this species is seven inches, according to Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 b). Because of its small size, it is of no economic importance. Genus Achirus (91) Achirus fasciatus Lacepede 1803 Hogchoker, sole, black flatfish Specimens: This small flatfish is taken occasionally throughout the year in Rhode Island waters. It reaches a maximum length of about eight inches (TL) but most individuals observed ranged from four to six inches (TL). It has been reported from Ninigret Pond, Pet- taquamscutt River, Newport and Narragansett Bay. The hogchoker is of no economic importance. Family Zeidae Genus Zenopsis (92) Zenopsis ocellata (Storer) 1858 John Dory, American John Dory Specimens: (PLATE 31) Three specimens of this deep water fish were obtained from off Block Island in 1957. On April 20, 1957, 8 and 11 inch (TL) speci- mens were obtained from the trawler Dauntless off Block Island. A 14-inch (TL) John Dory was obtained on October 26, 1957, from the trawler Theresa off Block Island. This species is of no economic importance in Rhode Island. 41 Family Macrorhamphosidae Genus Macrorhamphosus (93) Macrorhamphosus scolopax (Linnaeus) 1758 Snipe fish, snipefish Specimens: (PLATE 32) This species is widespread off the coast of Morocco in the eastern Atlantic, but is very rare in the region of the western Atlantic. Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 b) state that the few records from the western Atlantic have all been within the limits of the Gulf of Maine and that the few they had seen were about 4 inches long. On March 20, 1957, a 135 mm. (TL) snipefish was taken by the trawler Dauntless on the edge of the continental shelf off Block Island. This specimen is now number 39,926 in the fish collection at the Museum of Comparative Zoology at Harvard University. It appears to be the largest member of this species from the western North Atlantic. It is also a new southern record for this species in the western Atlantic. Family Atherimdae Genus Menidia (94) Menidia menidia (Linnaeus) 1766 Silverside, white-bait, shiner, sperling Specimens: This small silvery fish is common throughout the year in salt ponds and brackish water. Numerous specimens from three to six inches (TL) were collected at Watch Hill with minnow traps, and at Weekapaug with rotenone. The silverside is sometimes used as a baitfish. (95) Menidia beryllina (Cope) 1866 Waxen silverside, tide-water silverside Specimens: This species is very similar in characteristics to Menidia menidia except it has only about 17 or 18 soft rays in the anal fin, while Menidia menidia has about 23. Specimens three to five inches (TL) were taken in Winnapaug Pond in September, 1957. 42 Family Mugilidae Genus Mugil (96) Mugil ' cephal 'is Linnaeus 1758 Mullet, striped mullet, jumping mullet Specimens: The common mullet is a southern tish which strays into New England waters during the summer and fall. It is taken in Point Judith traps in July and is very common in Newport traps in the fall. It was recorded in Ninigret Pond and Winnapaug Pond during September, 1956. Specimens examined ranged from four to eight inches (TL). Horton recorded this species in Pettaquamscutl River on July 2, 1957, August 8, 1957, and October 10, 1957. (97) Mugil curema Cuvier and Valenciennes 1836 Silver mullet, white mullet Specimens: This species is similar in characteristics to Mugil ceplialis but it lacks stripes and it is slightly smaller. During late summer and fall, specimens occur in Narragansett Bay, Newport and southern Rhode Island. A six-inch (TL) specimen was taken on July 28, 1956, at Napatree Point using a minnow seine. Family Sphyraenidae Genus Sphyracna (98) Sphyraena guachancho Cuvier and Valenciennes 1829 Barracuda Specimens: Although this species is rare north of Florida, Tracy (1910) records an eight-inch specimen taken near Wickford. (99) Sphyraena boreal is DeKay 1842 Northern barracuda Specimens: The northern barracuda is an occasional visitor to Rhode Island waters during the summer months. An eight-inch (TL) specimen was collected by D. Horton in Pettaquamscutt River on July 2, 43 1957. Northern barracudas with 11 and 14 inch (TL) were taken by trawlers Irene and Walter and Jane Dore in Block Island Sound during September, 1957. There are two preserved specimens of this species in the collection of the Narragansett Marine Laboratory taken from Narragansett Bay in 1937 and 1940. Family Gasterosteidae Genus Pungitius (100) Pungitius pungitius (Linnaeus) 1758 Nine-spined stickleback Specimens: This species is found in brackish and weedy estuarine waters of the state. It reaches three inches (TL). It is not as common as other sticklebacks. Specimens were collected in Winnapaug Pond by the author. Genus Gasterosteus (101) Gasterosteus aculeatus (Linnaeus) 1758 Three-spined stickleback, common stickleback Specimens: This species is a year-round resident of Massachaug, Little Massachaug, and Winnapaug Ponds. Specimens collected ranged from two to three inches (TL). Horton collected this species in Pettaquamscutt River on January 27 and 30, 1958. (102) Gasterosteus wheatlandi (Putnam) 1867 Two-spined stickleback Specimens: This species is very common in brackish water. Numerous speci- mens were collected by the author throughout the year in Little Massachaug Pond, Watch Hill. Genus Apeltcs (103) Apeltes quadracus (Mitchill) 1815 Four-spined stickleback 44 Specimens: This species was observed throughout the year in Little Mas- sachaug Pond, Watch Hill. Jt was also collected from Winnapaug Pond by using rotenone. Family Syngnathidae Genus Syngnathus (104) Syngnathus fuscus Storer 1839 Pipefish Specimens: (PLATE $?>) The author found this species very common among eelgrass in salt and brackish water during the summer and fall. Numerous specimens ranging from 6 to 11 inches (TL) were collected at Weekapaug, Misquamicut, and Watch Hill during the summer of 1957. A 46 mm. larval pipefish was taken one and one half miles from the Rhode Island coast on July 16, 1944, according to Merri- man and Sclar (1952). Photographs and a description of a pipefish found in Little Narragansett Bay appear in Gordon (1956 m). The pipefish is of no economic importance. Family Hippocampidae Genus Hippocampus (105) Hippocampus hudsonius DeKay 1842 Seahorse Specimens: (PLATE 34) The seahorse was observed by the writer to be common in the eelgrass and seaweed in the late summer and fall of 1955. Bay scallop {Pecten irradians) fishermen captured many seahorses during that year. Since 1955, the seahorse has been very scarce in Rhode Island waters. A gravid female, six inches (TL) was observed during September, 1955. The seahorse fluctuates greatly in abundance in Rhode Island waters during different years. Family Fistulariidae Genus Fistularia (106) Fistularia tabacaria Linnaeus 1758 Cornetfish, trumpet-fish 45 Specimens: Several specimens of this rare West Indian species were collected by the author in 1957. Three trumpet-fish, 260 mm., 292 mm., and 304 mm. (TL) were obtained from John Ropes who captured them at Pettaquamscutt River, on August 6, 1957, and August 15, 1957. A 380 mm. (TL) cornetfish taken five miles east of Watch Hill on October 2, 1957, was obtained from the trawler Jane Dorc. Family Scombridae Genus Scomber (107) Scomber scombrus Linnaeus 1758 Mackerel, tinkers Specimens: (PLATE 35) This migratory species has been observed by the writer to ap- proach the coast in the spring and to move offshore into deeper water in the fall. During May and June of 1956 and 1957, schools of small mackerel, 8 to 12 inches (TL), were taken in the traps at Point Judith. Slightly larger mackerel, 12 to 15 inches (TL), were taken off Watch Hill during July and August, 1957, by trailers. The largest mackerel are those taken in waters around Block Island in late summer, reaching 20 inches (TL). Mackerel are captured by trap fishing, otter trawl, purse seine, and trolling silvered metal jigs- Economic Importance: The mackerel is an important food fish. During 1957, 96,101 pounds of mackerel, valued at $14,863, were landed by Rhode Island fishermen. Genus Pneumatophorus (108) Pneumatophorus colias (Gmelin) 1789 Chub mackerel, hardhead, bullseye Specimens: Closely resembling the common mackerel, this species differs from Scomber scombrus by possessing an air bladder, larger eyes and slightly smaller size. An irregular summer visitor, this species 46 has been observed by the writer in the traps at Point Judith and Newport during June and July, 1957. Due to its very close re- semblance to the common mackerel, no distinction is made in marketing chub and common mackerel. Genus Auxis (109) Auxis t hazard (Lacepede) 1802 Frigate mackerel Specimens: This species is rare in Rhode Island waters. Tracy (1910) men- tions a 12.5 inch (TL) specimen taken at Newport; and on August 23, 1880, 2S barrels were taken in a mackerel seine, ten miles east of Block Island. This species is of no economic importance in Rhode Island waters due to its rarity. Genus En thy tin us (110) Euth ynnns a Uctcralus (Rafinesque) 1810 False albacore, little tunny, watermelon Specimens: This tropical-oceanic species occasionally strays into Rhode Island waters during the summer and fall. On June 1, 1957, an 11-inch (TL) false albacore was taken in the trap off the Point Judith breakwater. This species is of no economic importance. Genus Sard a (111) Sarda sarda (Bloch) 1793 Bonito, skipjack Specimens: This semi-tropical pelagic species is a summer visitor to the waters off Block Island and Block Island Sound. Each year several hundred pounds of this species are taken in the traps at Point Judith, Newport and by sport fishermen. During 1955, the first bonito appeared in the Point Judith traps on June 4. It was 17 inches (TL) and weighed 4.5 pounds. 47 Economic Importance: Bonito are similar to tuna in taste and are baked or broiled fresh as a food fish. During 1957, 5,936 pounds of bonito, valued at $596, were recorded by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service from Rhode Island waters. (112) Sarda velox Meek and Hildebrand 1923 Striped bonito Specimens: (PLATE 36) Nichols and Breeder (1926) report two specimens of striped bonito, 23.5 and 24 inches (TL) taken near Block Island on August 15 and August 22, 1914. This is a very rare species found off Panama. Genus Germo (113) Germo alalunga (Gmelin) 1788 Long-finned albacore, albacore Specimens: Two mounted members of this species, 18 and 20 inches (TL) have been observed by the writer. These were taken by anglers near Block Island in 1928. Genus Thitnnus (114) Thimnus thynnas (Linnaeus) 1758 Tuna, bluefin, horse mackerel, tunny Specimens (PLATE 37) This oceanic species is frequently very abundant in Rhode Island waters during the summer and fall. Numerous giant bluefins are taken each summer in the traps off Newport and considerable quantities of the small immature school tuna are taken by trailers off Block Island. Occasionally large tuna are harpooned by commercial fishermen. Tuna appear in Rhode Island waters during July and August in the vicinity of Nebraska Shoal and Rosie's Ledge. "School tuna" (specimens under 50 pounds) appear off Block Island as early as July and are present throughout the summer and fall. 48 On occasion, large quantities of tuna arc taken in Rhode Island waters during a short period of time. During August, 1949, over 30 tuna weighing up to 779 pounds were taken from the water near the buoy at Rosie's Ledge off Watch Hill. The United States Atlantic Tuna Tournament, held August 14, 15 and 16, 1956, produced a total of 34 giant bluetins weighing a total of 16,780 pounds. On August 15, 1956, Captain Mark Connally harpooned a 1,100 pound tuna a few miles S\V of Block Island. The largest tuna taken in the United States waters by hook and line was from waters off Watch Hill. Economic Importance: The presence of giant tuna in Rhode Island is a great asset to the summer tourist trade; thousands of people flock to Galilee to view the boats and the tuna catch at the annual United States Atlantic Tuna Tournament held there during August. Commercial tuna fishing is virtually undeveloped off the Rhode Island coast. Vast quantities of school tuna found off Block Island could provide the basis for a Rhode Island tuna canning industry if they were fished intensively with the aid of modern methods such as fish finders and aerial reconnaissance. According to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service figures, 42,743 pounds of tuna, valued at $6,501, were landed at Rhode Island ports during 1957. Genus Scomberomorus (115) Scomberomorus maculatus (Mitchill) 1815 Spanish mackerel Specimens: This southern species strays into Rhode Island waters during the summer months. A few are taken off Newport and Block Island each year. During July, 1957, M. Taylor caught a 29-inch (TL) Spanish mackerel while trolling off Button woods. This fish weighed five pounds, four ounces. This species is of no economic importance in Rhode Island waters. (116) Scomberomorus regalis (Bloch) 1793 Painted mackerel, cereen, kingfish 49 Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions that this rare species is usually taken in autumn in Narragansett Bay. Family Trichiuridae Genus Trichiurus (117) Trichiurus Upturns Linnaeus 1758 Cutlassfish, scabbardfish, ribbonfish Specimens: This tropical species is rare in Rhode Island waters. A few appear occasionally. On July 1, 1954, a cutlassfish, 806 mm. (TL) was taken by the trawler Alice and Nellie in the vicinity of Block Island. Family Xiphiidae Genus Xiphias (118) Xiphias gladius Linnaeus 1758 Swordfish, billfish, broadbill Specimens: This warm water oceanic species is common in the waters off Block Island during July and August. Nichols and Breder (1926) mention that this species probably moves off into deeper water rather than migrating southward as they cite a 410-pound swordfish taken off Block Island during December in 80 fathoms on a trawl line set for tilefish. Swordfish are usually taken by harpoon and on rare occasions by hook and line. On July 6, 1953, H. Lowry har- pooned the season's first swordfish, weighing 194 pounds, seven miles off Block Island. During August, 1956, 12 swordfish were harpooned in the waters between Block Island and Montauk Point by commercial fishermen. The trawler Theresa harpooned a sword- fish weighing 353 pounds and two weighing 250 pounds were taken by the trawler Rita from this area. The year 1957 was an unusually good swordfish year. Economic Importance: Swordfish is a choice food fish and brings high prices to the fisher- men. During 1957, 123,413 pounds of swordfish valued at $41,827, were landed at Rhode Island fishing ports. 50 Family [stiophoridae Genus Makaira (119) Makaira albida (Poey) 1860 White marlin Specimens: (PLATE 38) This tropical species which is common off southern Florida and the West Indies strays into the waters off Block Island during t he- summer months, where a few are taken by deep sea anglers. On August 12, 1955, R. Dackerman, of Newark, N. J., landed a 65- pound white marlin about 15 miles SE of Point Judith. On August 26, 1955, O. Seidner, of Westerly, landed a 90-pound white marlin off Block Island. Economic Importance: The white marlin is only of importance as a game species sought by anglers. (120) Makaira ampla (Poey) 1860 Blue marlin Specimens: This southern species sometimes strays into waters off Block Island during July and August. On August 19, 1957, a 369 pound specimen was taken about 20 miles south of Block Island by Louis Ermo of Xorwalk, Conn. This large blue marlin had a 12 foot total length and a four foot three inch girth. The fish was taken with a live eel trolled from the charter boat Sinbad. Family Coryphaenidae Genus Coryphaena (121) Coryphaena hippurus Linnaeus 1758 Dolphin Specimens: This tropical species is occasionally taken by trailers in late summer off Block Island. Arnold (1951) mentions that many dolphin were observed in Block Island Sound during midsummer. This species is important only as a game fish. 51 Family Stromateidae Genus Poronotus (122) Poronotus triacanthus (Peck) 1800 Butterfish, dollarfish, butters Specimens: (PLATE 39) Abundant in inshore waters during the spring and summer and offshore during the winter months, the butterfish is widely sought after by commercial fishermen. The butterfish is taken in traps, purse seines and otter trawls in Rhode Island waters. During May, 1956 and 1957, butterfish were taken in large quantities by the traps at Point Judith and Newport. Specimens observed by the writer ranged in size from three to ten inches, (TL). Economic Importance: A delicately flavored fish, it brings a good price at the fish market. It is the number two Rhode Island species in dollar value and pounds landed. During 1957, 3,102,817 pounds of butterfish were landed at Rhode Island ports, valued at $236,833. Genus Peprilus (123) Peprilus alepidotus (Linnaeus) 1766 Harvestfish, starfish Specimens: This rare West Indian species is sometimes taken during summer months by trawlers and trap fishermen in company with butterfish. Three specimens were collected in 1957; two seven and eight inches (TL) from Newport traps in October, and one six and a half inches (TL) from the Point Judith trap in July. This species is very rare and of no commercial importance. Family Centrolophidae Genus Parinurichthyes (124) Parinurichthyes pcrciformis (Mitchill) 1818 Barrelfish, rudderfish, polefish Specimens: Found associated with floating seaweed and driftwood, this 52 species is sometimes taken by trawlers and trap fishermen. A specimen in the collection of the Narragansett Marine Laboratory was taken in Narragansett Bay in 1938. This species is generally found ranging from 6 to 12 inches (TL). It is of no economic im- portance. Genus Centrolophus (125) Centrolophus niger (Gmelin) 1789 Black ruff Specimens: (PLATE 77) This is a European species which is very rare in New England waters. Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 b) report three records from the Gulf of Maine, in 1890, 1936 and 1951. On October 10, 1957, the trawler Irene and Walter captured a 13-inch (TL) black ruff in an otter trawl, four miles south of Block Island. This is the first Rhode Island record for this species. This specimen is now in the fish collection of the Zoology Department of the University of Rhode Island. Family Carangidae Genus Naucrates (126) Naucrates ductor (Linnaeus) 1758 Pilotfish, rudderfish, shark pilot Specimens: This species is common along Rhode Island coastline during July and August. Specimens were observed and collected in 1957 from Watch Hill, Weekapaug, Point Judith and Newport. They ranged from five to nine inches (TL). Genus Seriola (127) Seriola zonata (Mitchill) 1815 Rudderfish, amberjack, pilotfish Specimens: (PLATE 40) This species is found in Rhode Island waters from July to Oc- tober. A specimen, six inches (TL), was taken by the trawler Jane Dore on July 30, 1957, four miles east of Watch Hill Point. Two 53 specimens, 5.5 and 7 inches (TL) were collected from Newport traps in October, 1957. (128) Seriola Jalandi Cuvier and Valenciennes 1833 Amberjack, amberfish Specimens : On July 2, 1957, a 40-pound specimen was taken in the traps at Point Judith. The trawler Theresa brought up an amberjack, 14 inches (TL) in an otter trawl on October 3, 1957, ten miles south of Block Island. The amberjack is a stray species to Rhode Island waters and is of no economic importance. Genus Decapterus (129) Decapterus punctatus (Agassiz) 1829 Scad, cigarfish, round robin Specimens: This species is a southern stray into Rhode Island waters during the summer months. A five-inch specimen was taken in the Point Judith traps on June 28, 1957. (130) Decapterus macarellus (Cuvier and Valenciennes) 1833 Mackerel scad Specimens : Three specimens of this southern species ranging from eight to ten inches (TL) were collected from the Newport traps in October, 1957. Genus Caranx (131) Caranx hippos (Linnaeus) 1766 Crevalle, jack, jack crevalle Specimens: This is a southern species which occasionally occurs in Rhode Island waters from July through October. An 11-inch (TL) specimen was collected from the Newport trap in October, 1957. (132) Caranx crysos (Mitchill) 1815 Hardtail, yellow-jack, runner 54 Specimens: This is a warm water fish which is found in Rhode Island waters during summer and fall. Specimens five to eight inches (TL) were collected from the Newport traps during October, 1957. (133) Caranx bartholomaei Cuvier and Valenciennes 1833 Yellowback Specimens: A member of this southern species, 92 mm. (TL) was collected by using rotenone, on September 19, 1957, at Weekapaug. This is the first record of this species in Rhode Island waters. Genus Trachurus (134) Trachurus trachurus (Linnaeus) 1758 Saurel, rough scad Specimens: About a dozen members of this southern species, from four to seven inches (TL) were taken by persons fishing off the Watch Hill dock on September 30, 1956, and were examined by the writer. Figure 202, Bigelow and Schroeder (1953 b) illustrates a saurel from Rhode Island. Genus Trachurops (135) Trachurops crumenophthalmus Bloch 1793 Goggle-eyed scad, big-eyed scad, goggler Specimens: This tropical species is found during late summer and fall in Rhode Island waters. Two specimens of 4 and 5.2 inches (TL) were taken at Weekapaug on September 19, 1957. Genus Vomer (136) Vomer sctapinnis (Mitchill) 1815 Moonfish, dollarfish Specimens: A 72 mm. (TL) specimen was collected from the traps in Newport in October, 1957. Tracy (1910) says that the adults of this species 55 are rare and that the moonfish varies in abundance in different years. Genus Selene (137) Selene vomer Linnaeus 1758 Lookdown, dollarfish, moonfish Specimens: (PLATE 41) This is a rare tropical species which strays into Rhode Island waters during late summer and fall. A 52 mm. (TL) specimen was taken from the Newport traps in October, 1957, by the author. Genus Oligoplites (138) Oligoplites saurus (Bloch and Schneider) 1801 Leatherjacket Specimens: This is a tropical species which is rare in Rhode Island waters. Three specimens of this species were collected by the writer from the traps at Point Judith during June and July, 1957. They ranged from seven to ten inches (TL). Genus Alectis (139) Alectis crinitus (Mitchill) 1826 Threadfin Specimens: (PLATE 42) The type specimen of this southern species was a threadfin taken near Block Island and described by Mitchill in 1826. Five specimens of a standard length, from four to seven inches (TL) were collected by the writer from the Newport traps during October, 1957. Genus Trachinotus (140) Trachinotus falcatus (Linnaeus) 1758 Round pompano Specimens: A three-inch (TL) specimen of this tropical species was collected in the Pettaquamscutt River by D. Horton during the summer of 56 1957. Tracy (1910) mentions round pompano in Narragansett Bay in 1899. (141) Trachinotus carolinus (Linnaeus) 1766 Common pompano Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions specimens at Nantucket; Noank, Con- necticut and in Narragansett Bay during 1899. Family Pomatomidae Genus Pomatomus (142) Pomatomus saltatrix (Linnaeus) 1758 Bluefish, choppers, snappers Specimens: (PLATES 43, 44) This migratory species is present in Rhode Island waters during the summer and fall. The abundance of the species fluctuates periodically from time to time. Bluefish have been observed by the writer in local waters from June until the end of November. On June 5, 1953, there were 12 bluefish taken in the Point Judith traps ranging from three to seven pounds. Commercial fishermen catch bluefish in Rhode Island waters using gill nets, traps, haul seines, otter trawl and hand-lines with heave and haul method. Small members of this species six to eight inches (TL) are known as snapper blues and provide considerable sport for anglers. Economic Importance: Among the most popular of the food fishes, bluefish brings a good price at the fish market. Sport fishermen spend considerable time and money in Rhode Island pursuing the sometimes elusive bluefish by boat and from the shoreline. During 1957, 50,246 pounds of bluefish, valued at $7,003, were landed by Rhode Island com- mercial fishermen. Family Serranidae Genus Roccus (143) Roccus saxatilis (Walbaum) 1792 Striped bass, striper, rockfish 57 Specimens: (PLATES 45, 46, 47) The striped bass is caught along Rhode Island's sandy beaches, rock-bound shores, in tidal rivers such as the Pettaquamscutt and Taunton, and Block Island Sound. It is pursued by vast hordes of sport fishermen and a few commercial fishermen with beach seines. It is the most popular salt water game fish in Rhode Island waters and has shown a marked decline in abundance in recent years. The variation in abundance of this species can possibly be attributed to poor year classes and pollution of spawning grounds. A few stripers may sometimes overwinter in Pettaquamscutt River and Salt Pond. The first stripers of the season usually appear in late March and early April in coastal estuaries and this species is present until the end of November. Many notable catches of striped bass have been made in Rhode Island. Listed below are 1960 World Records recognized by the International Game Fish Association, in various line categories, of striped bass taken from Rhode Island waters. Weight Length Place Date Angler 61 lbs. 10 oz. 4'5" Block Island 7- 5-56 L. A. Garceau 59 lbs. A'3V2" Pt. Judith 10-22-58 A. Bartolomucci 58 lbs. 8 oz. 4'4" Block Island 11- 2-56 L. A. Garceau 57 lbs. 8 oz. 4W Narragansett Bay 7- 1-59 B. Craig 57 lbs. 8 oz. 4'2M" Block I. Sound 8-28-59 M. R. Aubrv 54 lbs. 4'5" Charlestown 8- 5-56 [Mrs.] G. Kinsman, Jr. Photographs and description of Rhode Island stripers appear in Gordon (1957 g). Economic Importance: The striped bass is an important adjunct to the tourist trade in the summer and fall. This species is chiefly responsible for the influx of thousands of surfcasters and boat fishermen from neighboring and distant states. Because of its excellent flavor as a food fish, this species is widely sought by certain commercial fishermen. During 1957, according to United States Fish and Wildlife Service figures, 21,797 pounds of striped bass, valued at $5,033 were re- corded at Rhode Island fishing ports. 58 Genus Morone (144) Morone americana (Gmelin) 1789 White perch, sea perch Specimens: The white perch is present throughout the year in many brackish ponds and tidal rivers of Rhode Island. The writer examined white perch from the Pawcatuck and Pettaquamscutt Rivers, Ninigret and Winnapaug Ponds. Specimens examined ranged from 7 to 12 inches (TL). Horton collected white perch in Pettaquamscutt River on August 8, 1957. Economic Importance: The chief fishery for this food fish is centered at the Pettaquam- scutt River. During 1957, 273 pounds of white perch, valued at S37, were recorded from Rhode Island ports. Genus Epincpliclus (145) Epincpliclus niveatus (Cuvier and Valenciennes) 1828 Snowy grouper, spotted grouper Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions three members of this tropical species from Rhode Island in the United States National Museum. They are a 2.5 inch (TL) specimen from Tiverton; and two which measure 3 and 3>.25 inches (TL) from Point Judith. Genus Ccntropristcs (146) Centropristes striatus (Linnaeus) 1758 Sea bass, black bass, tallywag, black harry, black perch Specimens: (PLATE 48) This species is common in spring, summer and fall around rocks and wrecks in Rhode Island waters. They are found in depths rang- ing from two fathoms to rather deep water. Trawlers and trap fishermen take considerable quantities of sea bass along with hook and line fishermen. A 17-inch sea bass was taken by the author, July 17, 1952, off Weekapaug, R. I. An 18-inch sea bass was taken July 12, 1957, off Block Island by E. C. Shanks. 59 Economic Importance: This firm, white meated species is a high quality food fish. During 1957, 317,190 pounds of sea bass, valued at $38,447, were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Rypticus (147) Rypticus bistrispinus (Mitchill) 1818 Soapfish Specimens: There is one record of this tropical species in Rhode Island waters. Tracy (1910) mentions a specimen taken at Newport by Powell and described by Cope. Family Lobotidae Genus Lobotes (148) Lobotes surinamensis (Bloch) 1790 Tripletail, flasher, black grunt Specimens: This warm water species is a rare straggler to Rhode Island waters. Tracy (1910) mentions specimens taken near Prudence Island, Saunderstown, Wickford and Quonset, taken from 1901 to 1908. Family Priacanthidae Genus Priacanthus (149) Priacanthus arenathus Cuvier and Valenciennes 1829 Big eye, catalufa Specimens: Two members of this tropical species, one taken in October, 1939, from Wilcox Trap, Tiverton; and the other from Middle Bridge, in August, 1940, are in the collection of the Narragansett Marine Laboratory. The writer collected a 118 mm. (TL) big eye in October, 1957, from the traps at Newport. Genus P scudo priacanthus (150) Pseudopriacanthus alius (CAW) 1862 I )eep big eye 60 Specimens: (PLATE 49) Tracy (1910) describes this brilliant red tropical species as very rare. Two members of this species were collected by the author. The first was taken at Misquamicut in July, 1952, and measured 62 mm. (TL). The second specimen, 57 mm. (TL), was taken using rotenone at Weekapaug on October 10, 1957. Family Lutianidae Genus Lutianus (151) Lutianus griseus (Linnaeus) 1758 Gray snapper, mangrove snapper Specimens : Tracy (1910) mentions three specimens taken at Newport in 1896 and 1897, believed to be this species. (152) Lutianus blackfordii Goode and Bean 1878 Red snapper Specimens: Tracy (1910) cites one specimen taken near Block Island as reported by Bean (1901). Family Sparidae Genus Stenotomus (153) Stenotomus versicolor (Mitchill) 1815 Scup, porgy, scuppaug Specimens: (PLATE 50) This species is abundant in the inshore waters of Rhode Island during summer and fall. During the winter months, the scup move offshore into deeper water. In the spring they move into inshore water to spawn. Large quantities of this species are taken by the Newport and Point Judith traps. Some trawlers take this species throughout the year, following the inshore and offshore migrations. Some anglers pursue this species for sport. Specimens observed by the writer during the summer and fall of 1957, ranged from 2 to 16 inches (TL). 61 Economic Importance: An excellent food fish when fried or broiled, scup are sometimes so abundant that the fishermen sell the smaller sized scup for trash fish. During 1957, 5,401,010 pounds, valued at $308,396, were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Calamus (154) Calamus bajonado (Bloch and Schneider) 1801 Jolt-head porgy, bajonado Specimens: This is a tropical species found from the West Indies to Brazil. On November 25, 1955, a nine pound, eight ounce, 650 mm. (TL) jolt-head porgy was taken by Captain George Berg on the trawler Old Mystic, three miles SE of Watch Hill. The fish was sent to the Bingham Oceanographic Laboratory where it was positively identi- fied as Calamus bajonado by J. E. Morrow. This specimen was a new record for the Atlantic coast, as it had never been recorded previously north of Bermuda. Further morphological information about this species, which closely resembles the scup, can be found in Morrow (1956). Genus Lagodon (155) Lagodon rhomboides (Linnaeus) 1766 Pinfish, sailors1 choice, bream Specimens: (PLATE 51) This tropical species is a rare summer stray into Rhode Island waters. A few specimens have been observed mixed with scup, which they closely resemble, during June and July, 1956 and 1957, in the traps at Point Judith. Hildebrand and Schroeder (1928) state that the maximum size recorded for pinfish is 13 inches. Breder (1929) states that this species reaches a length of about ten inches. Beebe and Tee-Van (1933) state that the pinfish grows to slightly less than a foot. On June 8, 1955, the author collected and photographed a pinfish from the trap at Point Judith which he believes to be a new size record for this species. This pinfish was 14.25 inches (362 mm.) 62 (TL) and weighed one pound, seven ounces. The pinfish is a very edible species, but due to its small size and relative scarcity, it is of no economic importance in Rhode Island. Genus Archosargus (156) Archosargus probatocephalus (Walbaum) 1792 Sheepshead This southern member of the scup family occasionaly strays into Rhode Island waters and is taken in the traps at Newport and Point Judith during the summer and fall on rare occasions, according to the fishermen. This species reaches 30 inches (TL). Tracy (1910) states that sheepshead are sometimes taken at Newport. Family Kyphosidae Genus Kyphosus (157) Kyphosus sectatrix (Linnaeus) 1766 Rudder fish Specimens: This tropical species occurs only as a straggler from North Caro- lina northward. Tracy (1910) mentions a rudder fish in the United States National Museum taken at Newport by S. Powell. Family Sciaenidae Genus Cynoscion (158) Cynoscion regalis (Bloch and Schneider) 1801 Weakfish, squeteague, sea trout, chickret, squet Specimens: (PLATE 52) The migratory weakfish are present in Rhode Island from May to October. This commercial and sport species is subject to consider- able annual variation in abundance. During 1956, and 1957, the weakfish population began to show an increase in numbers in Rhode Island waters. During 1957, weakfish were taken in the Pawcatuck River, Pettaquamscutt River and in the traps in greater quantities than during the past nine years. The largest specimen observed by the writer was a 29-inch (TL) weakfish weighing nine pounds, taken in the Point Judith traps on July 2, 1957. 63 Economic Importance: Esteemed by many as both a food and game fish, the weakfish, when abundant, are of considerable economic importance. In 1947, 325,800 pounds of weakfish were landed at Rhode Island ports; while the total for 1957 was 23,254 pounds. Genus Bairdiella (159) Bairdiella chrysura (Lacepede) 1803 Silver perch, sand perch, mademoiselle, yellowtail Specimens: Found chiefly from New York to Texas, the silver perch strays into Rhode Island inshore waters during the summer. During the summer of 1957, J. Cronan reported large numbers of juveniles of this species taken along the shore in upper Narragansett Bay. Small specimens, three to five inches (TL) were collected from Wickford, Point Judith and Weekapaug by the writer. This species is not abundant enough to be of any economic importance. Genus Leiostomus (160) Leiostomus xanthurus Lacepede 1802 Spot, lafayette, silver gudgeon, goody Specimens: This warm water fish is found from southern New England to Texas. A number of specimens are taken each year in late summer and fall at the traps in Newport. During October, 1957, the writer collected eight spots from Newport traps, ranging in size from 6 to 11 inches (TL). Due to its scarcity in local waters, the spot is of minor economic importance in Rhode Island. In 1956, 134 pounds of spot, valued at $8.00 were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Micro pogon (161) Micropogon undulatus (Linnaeus) 1766 Croaker, hardhead, crocus, king billy Specimens: Although this southern species is not common north of New Jersey, a few strays are taken in Rhode Island traps each year. On 64 July 2, 1953, a ten-inch croaker was taken in the trap off the Point Judith breakwater by W. Clark. Genus Menticirrhus (162) Menticirrhus saxatilis (Bloch and Schneider) 1801 Kingfish, king whiting, roundhead, sea mink Specimens: (PLATE 53) Most abundant along the middle Atlantic coast, this excellent food and game fish is present in Rhode Island waters from April to November. Specimens of kingfish ranging in size from 6 to 14 inches (TL) were examined by the writer in the traps at Point Judith during the summer of 1957. Economic Importance: Commercial trawlers and trappers take a small amount of this excellent food fish each year. In 1956, 1,785 pounds of king whiting, valued at $132, were landed at Rhode Island fishing ports. Genus Pogonias (163) Pogonias cromis (Linnaeus) 1766 Black drum, drum, sea drum Specimens: The drum is found from southern New England to Argentina and each year a few specimens are taken in the Newport and Point Judith traps during the summer and fall. On July 2, 1957, a 30- pound drum was taken in the Clark traps at Point Judith. Due to its scarcity, this species is of no economic importance in Rhode Island. Family Pomacentridae Genus Eiipomacentrus (164) Eiipomacentrus leucostictus (Muller and Troschei) 184S Beau-gregory, black pilot, cockeye pilot Specimens: This West Indian species has never been recorded in Rhode Island or on the New England mainland previously. The only 65 reliable reference to northern stragglers is in Nichols and Breder (1927) where mention is made of nine specimens taken at Katama Bay, Martha's Vineyard, from August 30 to October 4, 1899. On October 19, 1957, a 41 mm. (TL) beau-gregory was taken in a tidal pool at Weekapaug using rotenone. Genus ^4 budefduf (165) Abudefduf marginatus (Bloch) 1787 Sergeant-major, demoiselle, cow-pilot Specimens: This is a tropical species which is rare in Rhode Island waters. Tracy (1910) mentions this species taken at Newport. Family Branchiostegidae Genus Caulolatilus (166) Caulolatilus microps Goode and Bean 1878 Blanquillo Specimens: A member of this species was dragged up in the "Gully" off Block Island by the trawler Northwind in March, 1953. Identifica- tion of the fish was made by M. P. Fish of the Narragansett Marine Laboratory. Family Branchiostegidae Genus Lopholatilus (167) Lopholatilus chamacleonticeps Goode and Bean 1879 Tilefish Specimens: (PLATE 54, 55) This deep water fish is found on the edge of the continental shelf directly off the coast of Rhode Island. It occurs from Nova Scotia to Chesapeake Bay. During the late winter and spring, large quanti- ties of this food fish are taken by Rhode Island trawlers in the waters off Block Island. Tilefish examined at Point Judith and Stonington by the writer ranged in size from 15 to 36 inches (TL). A more complete description of the tilefish fishery of Rhode Island can be found in Gordon (1955 m). 66 Economic Importance: Tilefish, a good quality food fish, arc sought by offshore trawlers during the winter months. During 1957, 144,330 pounds of tilefish, valued at 826,097, were landed at Rhode Island ports. Genus Sebastes (168) Sebastes marinus (Linnaeus) 1758 Rosefish, ocean perch, redfish, red bream Specimens: A deep water species off the Rhode Island coast, this species is sometimes taken by offshore trawlers. It is much more plentiful farther north where it supports a large fishery. Rosefish measuring 14 to 20 inches (TL) were brought into Point Judith in December, 1957, and examined by the writer. Economic Importance: Large quantities of this species are filleted, packaged and frozen in Maine and Massachusetts. Rhode Island offshore trawlers fish for tilefish rather than rosefish on the edge of the continental shelf, hence very few pounds are brought into Rhode Island. Family Caproidae Genus Antigonia (169) Antigonia capros Lowe 1843 Boar fish Specimens: (PLATE 56) The boarfish is a rare tropical offshore species. On April 20, 1957, the trawler Dauntless captured a 57 mm. (TL) specimen on the continental shelf off Block Island. This specimen, which was ex- amined by the writer, is believed to be the first record of this species in Rhode Island waters. Family Cottidae Genus Myoxocephalus (170) Myoxocephalus aeneus (Mitchill) 1815 Grubby sculpin, brassy sculpin, little sculpin 67 Specimens: A year round resident in Rhode Island waters, this species nearly always occurs in the catch of inshore trawlers. Specimens examined ranged from three to seven inches (TL). This species is of no eco- nomic importance and is utilized with the trash species. (171) Myoxocephalus scorpius (Linnaeus) 1758 Shorthorned sculpin, Greenland sculpin, daddy sculpin Specimens: This is the largest species of sculpin in Rhode Island waters reaching a length of 25 inches. This is a cool water species and is very common in Block Island Sound during the winter months. In the spring it migrates offshore to colder waters. It was observed by the writer in December, 1957, and January and February, 1958, in the catch of trawlers operating in Block Island Sound. This sculpin is of importance only as a trash species. (172) Myoxocephalus octodecimspinosus (Mitchill) 1815 Longhorn sculpin, gray sculpin, common sculpin, spined sculpin Specimens: The longhorn sculpin is one of the most abundant species in the inshore regions of Rhode Island. Studies by Morrow (1951) show this species to be most abundant in Block Island Sound from October through May. Specimens examined by the author ranged from 3 to 14 inches, (TL). This species, though edible, is only of importance as a trash fish. An excellent discussion of the life history of this species is given by Morrow (1951). Family Hemitripteridae Genus Hemitripterus (173) Hemitripterus americanus (Gmelin) 1788 Sea raven, red raven, devil fish Specimens: (PLATE 57) The red sea raven occurs in the waters of Block Island Sound during the winter months. A 17-inch (TL) specimen was taken by the trawler Jane Dore on January 2, 1957, three miles east of Watch Hill Point. This species is utilized with trash fish. 68 Family Agonic lac- Genus . 1 spidophoroides (174) Aspidophoroidcs monopterygius (Bloch) 1786 Alligatorfish, sea poacher Specimens: This rare species is found from Greenland to Cape Cod in deep water. There is one record of this species in Rhode Island waters. A head of an alligator fish was dredged up off Watch Hill in 1874 on the Pecten Ground according to Goode and Bean (1895). Family Cyclopteridae Genus Cyclopterus (175) Cyclopterus lumpus Linnaeus 1758 Lumpfish, lump sucker, lump Specimens: (PLATES 58, 59) This is a northern species, plentiful around Greenland and Labrador, which strays down into southern New England during winter and early spring. On March 21, 1953, a lumpfish was taken three miles SE of Watch Hill by the trawler Jane Dore. The writer believes this specimen to be the largest on record. This lumpfish was carefully examined by the author. It weighed 21 pounds 4 ounces, measured 23.5 inches (TL) and contained an estimated 279,620 eggs. For additional information about this record specimen refer to Gordon (1954 a). On May 5, 1957, a six-pound lumpfish was speared by a skin diver near the Watch Hill lighthouse. Al- though edible, lumpfish are usually utilized as trash species. Family Liparidae Genus NeoHparis (176) NeoHparis atlanticus Jordan and Evermann 1898 Sea snail, New England sea snail Specimens: One member of this northern species was examined. A 55 mm. (TL) sea snail was taken by J. Watson on March 28, 1957, south of Gould Island in Narragansett Bay. This species is uncommon in Rhode Island waters. 69 Genus Liparis (177) Liparis liparis (Linnaeus) 1766 Striped sea snail Specimens: This Arctic and northern species strays into Rhode Island waters during the winter and spring. Tracy (1910) mentions specimens taken off Watch Hill and Block Island. A specimen was collected by J. Watson in Narragansett Bay during March, 1957. Family Triglidae Genus Prionotus (178) Prionotus carol inns (Linnaeus) 1771 Common sea robin, robin, gurnard Specimens: Common sea robin occur in Rhode Island waters from April until October. Many are taken by trap and trawler fishermen and utilized with trash species. Specimens observed ranged in size from 7 to 15 inches (TL). (179) Prionotus evolans (Linnaeus) 1766 Striped sea robin Specimens: This species is similar in form and habits to Prionotus carolinus, but reaches a maximum of 18 inches (TL) and has brown bars on its pectoral fins. It is not as common as the Prionotus carolinus, but is frequently taken by trap and otter trawl from June through October in Rhode Island waters. Family Peristediidae Genus Peristcdion (180) Peristcdion miniatum Goode 1880 Armored sea robin Specimens: According to Evermann and Marsh (1902) Peristcdion miniatum is known only from the type locality, which is the Gulf Stream 70 off Rhode Island. Three specimens, 8 to 11 inches (TL) were col- lected from the trawler Dauntless, taken on the continental shelf off Block Island on April 20, 1957. Family Dactylopteridae Genus Dactylopterus (181) Dactylopterus volitans (Linnaeus) 1758 living gurnard, flying robin, flying fish Specimens: (PLATES 60, 61) This southern species is an occasional visitor to Rhode Island waters in the fall. On October 5, 1957, a 5.5 inch (TL) flying gurnard was captured by E. Nugent while he was scallop dredging in Little Narragansett Bay, Westerly. Specimens have also been taken in the fall of 1957, in Salt Pond and Ninigret Pond. Family Labridae Genus Tautogolabrus (182) Tautogolabrus adspersus (Walbaum) 1792 dinner, bergall, chogy, nibbler Specimens: (PLATE 62) This species is very common around rocks, wharves and jetties. It provides considerable sport. Cunners observed by the writer ranged from three to nine inches (TL). Further elaboration on the habits of cunners can be found (Gordon, 1957 h). Economic Importance: Large cunners make excellent food fish. In 1956, 190 pounds of cunners, valued at S6, were recorded at Rhode Island fishing ports. Genus Tautoga (183) Tautoga onitis (Linnaeus) 1758 Tautog, black, blackfish Specimens: (PLATES 63, 64) The blackfish lives around rocks and seaweed in shoal water. This is a favorite species with many hook and line anglers and spearfishermen. Listed below are 1960 World Records, recognized 71 by the International Game Fish Association, in various line cate- gories, of tautog taken from Rhode Island waters. Weight Length Place Date Angler 21 lbs. 20 lbs. 14 oz. 12 lbs. 2'6" 2'8" 2'1.5" Jamestown Newport Block Island 11- 6-54 10-20-55 10-18-52 C. W. Sundquist W. R. Peckham D. V. Marshall Additional information about tautog can be found in Gordon (1956 g). Economic Importance: Tautog are high on the list of favorite marine fish among anglers. In addition, the blackfish is a tasty food fish. During 1957, Rhode Island commercial fishermen landed 62,741 pounds of tautog, valued at $3,105. Family Ephippidae Genus Chaetodipterus (184) Chaetodipterus faber (Broussonet) 1782 Spadefish, angel-fish, moonfish, tripletail Specimens: Tracy (1910) reports one specimen of this rare tropical species taken in Narragansett Bay. Family Chaetodontidae (185) Chaetodon occllatus (Bloch) 1787 Butterfly-fish, parche Specimens: (PLATE 65) Two specimens of this very rare tropical species were collected by the writer. The only previously recorded butterfly-fish from Rhode Island waters was a specimen, one inch (TL) taken by Gill in Newport in 1861, according to Tracy (1910). The two butterfly- fish collected by the writer were taken at Weekapaug on September 19, 1957, using rotenone. They were 20 mm. and 22 mm. (TL). 72 Family Gobiidae Genus Gobiosoma (186) Gobiosoma bosci (Lacepede) 1798 Naked goby Specimens: This is a small species which is usually difficult to capture. A 26 mm. (TL) specimen was taken at Weekapaug on October 10, 1957, with rotenone. A specimen taken from Ninigret Pond is in the Narragansett Marine Laboratory collection. (187) Gobiosoma ginsburgi Hildebrand and Schroeder 1928 Ginsburg's gobi Specimens: One specimen, 30 mm. (TL) is found in the collection of the Narragansett Marine Laboratory. It was taken in 1938, from Narragansett Bay. Family Echeneididae Genus Echeneis (188) Echeneis naucrates Linnaeus 1758 Shark remora, remora Specimens: (PLATES 2, 66, 67, 68) This species occurred periodically in the fish traps at Point Judith during June and July of 1956 and 1957. This species is found associated with mako, white sharks and large sting rays. Specimens were collected and ranged from 9 to 14 inches (TL). Photographs and description of this species occur in Gordon (1955 j, 1956 1, 1956 o). Genus Remora (189) Remora br achy pier a (Lowe) 1829 Swordfish sucker Specimens: This remora is occasionally taken with swordfish off Block Island. An eight-inch specimen was examined in September 1957. It came from Block Island Sound and was attached to Sphyrna zygaena. 73 Genus Rhombochirus (190) Rhombochirus osteochir (Cuvier) 1829 Spearfish sucker Specimens: This species is sometimes taken with marlin. A specimen is reported by Tracy (1910). Family Ammodytidae Genus Ammodytes (191) Ammodytes americanus DeKay 1842 Sand launce, sand eel, launce Specimens: This species occurs throughout the year in Rhode Island waters, but it is most plentiful in spring and fall. It has been observed in the stomach contents of weakfish, mackerel, pollock, cod, striped bass and bluefish. Specimens ranging from four to seven inches (TL) have been observed by the writer. The sand launce is only of importance as a bait species. Family Mullidae Genus MuUus (192) Mullus auratus Jordan and Gilbert 1882 Goatfish, red mullet, surmullet Specimens: This tropical species strays into Rhode Island waters during the summer and fall. During the summer and fall of 1957, J. Ropes collected six members of this species in Dutch Island harbor bay, ranging from 104 to 115 mm. (TL). S. Saila captured one of this species in Ninigret Pond during September, 1957. It was kept alive for several weeks at the Narragansett Marine Laboratory. Genus Upeneus (193) Upeneus maculatus (Bloch) 1893 Red goatfish, salmonete 74 Specimens: A member of this Carribean species, 148 mm. (TL) was collected by the author in October, 1957, from the traps in Newport. 1 nis is believed to be the first record of this species in New England waters. Family Pholidae Genus Pholis (194) Pholis gunnellus (Linnaeus) 1758 Rock eel, gunnel, rockfish Specimens: This species is a year round resident in Rhode Island. It is in offshore areas during the winter and in littoral rocky spots during the spring, summer and fall. A specimen 118 mm. (TL) long was collected July 10, 1957, off the dock at Watch Hill in a minnow trap. Genus Ulvaria (195) Ulvaria subbifurcata (Storer) 1839 Radiated shanny, ulva-fish Specimens: Only one specimen of this rare species is on record from Rhode Island. Tracy (1910) reports a member of this species taken off the mouth of Newport harbor. Family Cryptacanthodidae Genus Cryptacanthodes (196) Cryptacanthodes maculatus Storer 1839 Wrymouth, bastard cusk, ghostfish Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions a 24-inch specimen from Rhode Island. Family Anarhichadidae Genus Anarhichas (197) A narkichas lupus Linnaeus 1758 Wolfish, wolffish 75 Specimens: This species is occasionally taken on the tilefish grounds off Block Island. Specimens have been observed from 3 to 4.5 feet (TL) long. During 1956, 1,996 pounds of wolffish, valued at $85, were landed at Rhode Island ports. Family Zoarcidae Genus Macrozoarces (198) Macrozoarces americanns (Bloch and Schneider) 1801 Ocean pout, eel pout, ling, congo eel, blenny Specimens: (PLATE 69) This species is found throughout the year in Block Island Sound. The "Deep Hole" east of Block Island is one of the best sources of pout. In late winter and early spring there is a slight inshore migra- tion of this species which spawns in rocky areas. For further in- formation about ocean pout life history see Olsen and Merriman (1946) and Gordon (1958 d). Economic Importance: Although utilized as a food fish during World War II, the pout is now utilized chiefly as a trash species. A great many of the pout in Rhode Island waters are infested with a protozoan parasite, Plistophora, an intramuscular microsporidian which renders them unappetizing in appearance. Genus Lycodes (199) Lycodes reticulatus Reinhardt 1838 Arctic eelpout, reticulated eelpout Specimens: Two 14-inch (TL) specimens of this species were taken by the trawler Fish Hawk in Narragansett Bay in 17 fathoms, according to Goode and Bean (1895). Genus Lycenchelys (200) Lycenchelys verrillii (Goode and Bean) 1877 Wolf eel 76 Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions a specimen at the Boston Society of Natural History which was taken at Newport. Family Batrachoididae Genus Opsanus (201) Opsanus tau (Linnaeus) 1766 Toadfish, toad grunter Specimens: (PLATE 70) The toadfish is found throughout the year among rocks and weeds along the Rhode Island shoreline. It is believed that this species hibernates in the mud during the winter. Occasionally taken by trawlers, trap fishermen and anglers, this species is of no economic importance. Family Balistidae Genus Batistes (202) Batistes caroiinensis Gmelin 1789 Triggerfish Specimens: This tropical species strays into Rhode Island waters during the summer and fall. Specimens were collected in Winnapaug Pond, Charlestown Pond and Block Island Sound during 1957. The Charlestown specimen was taken alive by S. Saila and kept in captivity for over a month in the tanks at the Narragansett Marine Laboratory before expiring. On August 6, 1957, a 19-inch (TL) member of this species weighing 4.25 pounds was taken four miles south of Xapatree Point, Watch Hill. The author believes this specimen to be a new size record for Batistes carotinensis. (203) Batistes forcipatus Gmelin 1789 Powell's filefish Specimens: This is an extremely rare species of questionable presence in Rhode Island waters. It is recorded from the west coast of Africa and Brazil. Tracy (1910) cites a young specimen of this species taken by S. Powell at Newport in September, 1867. Since the young of the filefish and triggerfish exhibit polymorphism, the writer questions the validity of this single specimen in Rhode Island waters. Family Monacanthidae Genus Monacanthiis (204) Monacanthus hispidus (Linnaeus) 1 766 Filefish, foolfish Specimens: A few members of this tropical species are occasionally taken in late summer and fall in the traps. The fish range from four to six inches (TL). On September 19, 1957, a 23 mm. (TL) young filefish of this species was taken at Weekapaug using rotenone. Genus Ahitera (205) Alutera schoepfii (Walbaum) 1792 Orange filefish, foolfish, unicornfish This species was the most plentiful of the filefish and triggerfish present in Rhode Island waters during the summer and fall of 1957. Over a dozen specimens were examined, ranging from 7 to 18 inches (TL). The earliest record of the orange filefish's appearance in Rhode Island waters was a 17-inch (TL) specimen speared in eight feet of water off Napatree Point on June 16, 1957, by B. Bulmer. Family Ostraciidae Genus Lactophrys (206) Lactophrys trigonus (Linnaeus) 1758 Boxfish, trunkfish Specimens: Tracy (1910) has this species recorded from Xarragansett Bay in 1899. Family Tetraodontidae Genus Lagocephalus (207) Lagocephalus laevigatus Linnaeus 1766 Smooth puffer, rabbitfish, bottlefish 78 Specimens: (PLATE 72) This southern species is not common north of Cape Hatteras and is rare in Rhode Island waters. Two smooth puffers were col- lected by the author in 1957. One, 15.5 inches (TL) was taken in the trap oft" the Point Judith breakwater on July 2, 1957; and the other. 17 inches (TL), was taken by the trawler Jane Dore, four miles SE of Watch Hill, on October 17, 1957. Genus Sphaeroides (208) Sphaeroides maculatus (Bloch and Schneider) 1801 Puffer, swellfish, globefish, snowball Specimens: (PLATES 73, 74) This is a very abundant species during summer and fall in Rhode Island waters. Large quantities are taken by trawler and trap fishermen. Anglers frequently hook this species and are familiar with its ability to inflate itself into a round sphere with air or water. Economic Importance: The tail section of this species is tasty and sometimes marketed under the name of sea squab. Usually this species is utilized with the trash fish, but occasionally some are filleted and shipped to market. During 1957, 7,414 pounds of swellfish valued at $245, were landed as food fish at Rhode Island ports. Genus Cheilichthys (209) Cheilichthys testudineas (Linnaeus) 1758 Glovefish, blowfish, tambor Specimens: This tropical species, which reaches a length of seven or eight inches (TL) has been taken at Newport, according to Tracy (1910). (210) Cheilichthys trichocephalus (Cope) 1870 Hairy blowfish Specimens: The type specimen and only specimen known of this species was a four-inch fish taken in the Gulf Stream off Newport by S. Powell, according to Tracy (1910). 79 Family Diodontidae Genus Chilomycterus (211) Chilomycterus schoepfii (Walbaum) 1792 Burrfish, porcupinefish, oysterfish Specimens: (PLATE 75) This warm water fish is an infrequent stray into Rhode Island waters in late summer and fall. During July, 1957, over a dozen specimens, six to eight inches (TL), were obtained from the Point Judith traps. Family Molidae Genus Mola (212) Mola mola (Linnaeus) 1758 Oceanic sunfish, mola, headfish Specimens: This oceanic species is an occasional visitor into Rhode Island waters during the summer months. Trawler fishermen frequently report seeing this large fish basking in the sun on the surface of the water off Block Island. In July, 1954, a sunfish estimated at 1,000 pounds was taken in the traps off Point Judith. On August 29, 1953, the writer observed a large mola on the surface of the sea, three miles SE of Block Island. Family Lophiidae Genus Lophius (213) Lophius americanus Cuvier and Valenciennes 1837 Anglerfish, goosefish, molykite Specimens: (PLATES 4, 76) The anglerfish is a year round resident in Rhode Island waters. During the summer of 1957, there were a few goosefish from two to four feet (TL) in each haul of the trap. This grotesque fish is common in the nets of inshore and offshore trawlers fishing on the bottom. 80 Economic Importance: Although this species is edible, it is usually used as a trash species. During 1955, 13,300 pounds of angler fish, valued at $277, were landed as food fish at Rhode Island ports. Family Antennariidae Genus Ilistrio (214) Histrio pictus (Cuvier and Valenciennes) 1837 Sargassum fish, mousefish Specimens: Tracy (1910) mentions three specimens taken at the mouth of the Sakonnet River, in September, 1904. There is also a specimen at the Narragansett Marine Laboratory taken from off the Rhode Island coast. Family Ogcocephalidae Genus Dibranchus (215) Dibranchus atlantiens Peters 1875 Batfish, seabat Specimens: A single specimen, captured off Block Island, is reported in Goode and Bean (1895). Specimens from Newport are mentioned in Jordan and Evermann (1896-1900). 81 V. Trends in the Fish Population The majority of the 215 species of fish in this report occur peri- odically in the catch of Rhode Island commercial fishermen. Land- ings of commercially caught fish and shellfish at Rhode Island ports during 1959 totaled 116.6 million pounds valued at S4.0 million to the fishermen. During 1959, fish for industrial use (trash fish) other than menhaden, totaled 75 million pounds, valued at $621,149. Rhode Island commercial fishermen use a variety of methods in capturing their catch. The chief method employed is the otter trawl net which is used by trawl vessels. Approximately 84 per cent of the state's fish catch in 1956 was taken in the otter trawl nets. These nets, which are usually about 80 feet in length, are towed along the ocean bottom and capture a variety of local and migratory species. This method is selective for demersal fishes. During April, 1958, there were 44 trawlers fishing out of Point Judith, manned by 126 men. Trawlers also operate periodically out of Wickford, Newport and Block Island. Approximately 15 trawlers from Ston- ington, Connecticut fish throughout the year off the Rhode Island coast. Another device is the stationary floating trap. There are three principal trap locations being fished in the state. They are, Point Judith, with three traps; Newport, with two traps; and Sakonnet Point, with two traps. These large floating traps arc particularly adapted for the capture of pelagic species. In 1905, there were 265 fish traps being operated in Rhode Island waters; today, there are less than a dozen fish traps in operation, and these are only in opera- tion during the spring and part of the summer and fall. Thirdly, purse seines, from 250 feet to 2,000 feet, are used in Rhode Island waters to capture schools of menhaden. The seines 82 ft* ■— pa -~ 13 so Os oCreiOsO-fCNOOOO MO^rrjirKMOrO^Ol^NCX CN i^ *t 'O i/j O C> 'C «^ N ro C ff) »0 -r >e >n o o io so o — o io t^ so re SO O — re -t ir, ?w, — jn so — f »e — ^ rvi rvj ,3 1/-, -~ — f. ^ sooooor>ioors|ie~i^ •o ^ — < -t >e *^ o reOCNOOresOCN-fO— T00-+OCN rvi 30 >e Os —< re 00 00 'e csj Os re O O 1- f iCJ-hK-i^ rs! C N C f, -< C O C N X M-X-OO'C'C 't (N ^1 " 'N S -f CN rtrt00'O(NHO'rj'-'-i0"OMO Orsi-fioroiors|Oi1-t»-OrO -T -f CN ,— i re sO re Os -rf — ^h CN -p «o iC-t"-,X-t X Ci f-O— 1 re "~. re oc ■ -t >e ro «-i rs) -+ — re re ^- — — r^j^oire-t O0CN — lereiOOCOCre-P-tOOOre O M O 3> N X IO fsi -h rt -j< M rn N Or-it^t^OwiCsOXsOi'>roCslt^ cm 00 re cm 10 — 1 0- O -+ >e — -tK\0-Hir,-tONMCN « N 1^ O M O -t "". C 0> IO cn , — cn O ^O — te lO rnrtKWO\N re re O rsiOO^MfrirtrHfsiTfNiOXr-. ro rs) x X io w N io r^ 4 re Os — SO CN CN re re O O r<5 CN — _ cm — r». X SO IN X M O W -f W IN C — re -t O SO 00 — — O 1^ OS — Cs! 00 10 re ON oooooooo — — — ~ ~ ~ O C: OOOOOOOO OOQQQQOQOOOOOO OOQQQOOQOOOOOQ OOOOOOOOOOOOOO OQOOQOOQOOO rrro-oro — — — cooc: OOOOOOOO' 000 sO O O re O i~- "^5 t-» — 30hOO«C CN m so Os — — - io O re 'O O —< i-O re so O -f ■tfN-t^io-t-fOCW'- 100>0 — — — CN t^- ie N N ro ir, rJ 0 C J O — 1- •+ — 00 r>] ~f re 10 — 1 O Os CN os OOOOOOQQ co c; c: "-. o o o o OX— ^lOr^X OOOOOQOOQQOOQQ OOOO-rCOCCCCrrOO O0C«"i000CCN — — LOOC-treCNOs OOOOOOOOOOO QOOOOOOOOOO o^sore-focoooorere O "". OC ro MUT^; X -r cn r^ .-< so — Os SO lOrsl-tO\OOrO-n(Nr»)j^rOsO-t rNierer^rereoO'— it^ooo"~> C5 f5 Psi r<5 rsl sO in >t resO i-l *-t — CM O tJ< MOfOMWrOsOf)fONt» 10 re 00 >n -f re ^- re •<+ -t rsi cs) — . os" CM On OOOOOOOO ccoooooo X"; N-tr-iOio'i1 OOQOQOQQQOOOQO ooc;c;ccc:c;c:c:c;c:c:'0 "~. O. -+ re Os 1^ -f 00 t-» lo 00 sO 00 SO 0 0 0 0 c 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 00 m 0 -t* 10 os cn 0 re io re o -t o re CN 3 re ir^ o re -^H O t— "-H sOrere-tOOOO-f'Or-iOO'fO-rfLO T^rxirslsOoor^.ooOssO'-hooCsi t^re *— ireoo Os o t-» rt H H O ") tTj «) O IO (S| O — -f 'O -f IC, — — -f -rt re CN O Os OOOOOOOO oooooooo — 1^ ^sj •+ l^ lO f) rji CN t]- sO >h OrOM _ _ i/-, CslNfOrt re O CN OOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOPOOOOOQOO Csre"5"5sOOsOO'— iO'— i"~< O00'— ' OOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOO OOOfMNNOOIOOOr-OOi OXX-HLO-HOPsixOwOtS ^KNfsi re^frxjo\ "-t-sOrNi OO orsix^t "-^-+re fONNTNOOCMOO — . H IT; -f O C N IO I-. — CN SO t^ 00" o> os r^ rC cm -f re — sO OOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOQQOOOOOOO ifi'Cr-iOiNOONO'-'O x sOfS OOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOO NNOON'T.NO'-JO re i^ i/; on N O ^t rO CN t~- o — — i rsit-. OssOOO— 'leOOOojoosOsOrere sOreO O O IO O «) «) rn ") <-h re -* tN io "* r» lOrtNTHONNN-tO O i-H 00 so cn re <-h cn ie 0 sO O 00 O c o o o o o o o o o o o c O LC — CN CN -? SO ■* C OOOOOOOOOO'OO O OOOOOOQOOOOO 1— X ^ "5 ir, O r-l Tf ^j in i^- ro ro OOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOO OOOOsCreioreOsOst^ — i-- t~~ —- ( o O r— t-~ «H 'tO-'N'- re TP r-- >-h rxjoo LOt^ieOsiOOOssOCN O00 OrtMvnrriMCMr, rsiui -t< r» O t— i-i re — HH re t^CNCNsOOOsO-t-tOsOs "", so sOOre CN Osre 1— 1 rcjl^ CN o> 2 — ooo-^lolo — -?-t"rj"-.-tXC> u~. — — re t-» CN t-« IT, C OOOOOOOOOOOOOO oooro — ccccccocc 00"0t^O-t00sOO. -to — 't iO 00 OOOOOOOOOOO cc:c:c:-;--;c:c:c;c:o XNOlONrHrfrSlCXrH -toOLotorsj'— — o — •— soo—i N IC IT, « r^^OOCOsre-rOS'— 1 rslOs re — i "~. 00 t-i rsi r» le-H CNCN — CNre-nreiD (NIC, sOsC CN-rfresO re — — CN to ,£i to fl W i- > >t8 0T= § £~ ■gJi'g.ti.s sag o ajC=irt"23 — .E-Sj=° CO wrtOJ &£ ~ o _ 2 OC— u ^ y^ ei ^ ^ o O -3 >h M Q fe ^ i rt S= 3rt S flO'fiS S S 2^ Slclcfe TABLE 2 Marine Fishes not Included in any Previously Published List of Rhode Island Icthyofauna Scientific Name Common Name Carcharodon carcharias Maneater shark CetorJiinus maximus Basking shark Scyliorhinus retifer Chain dogfish Ciin sly mostoma cirratum Nurse shark Sphyma tiburo Bonnetnose shark Prionace glauca Great blue shark Paragaleus pectoralis Galeoccrdo cuvier Tiger shark Raja eglenteria Clearnose skate Raja garmani Rosetted skate Raja scnta Smooth skate Raja radiata Thorny skate Gymnura allavela Butterfly ray Manta birostris Devil ray Cyprinodon variegatus Sheepshead minnow Gastcrosteus aculeatus Three-spined stickleback Makaira ampla Blue marlin Calamus bajonado Jolthead porgy Caranx bartholomaei Yellowjack Centrolophus niger Black ruff Antigonia capros Boarfish Zcnopsis ocellata John Dory Macrorhamphosus scolopax Snipefish Gobiosoma bosci Goby Gobiosoma ginsburgi Goby .S'(;;-(/(/ velox Bonito Peristedion miniatum Armored sea robin Remora brachyptera Remora Bairdiella chrysura Silver perch Neoliparis atlanticus Sea snail Sebastes marinus Rosefish Caulolalilus microps Blanquillo Lopholalilus chamaeleonticeps Tilefish V peueus mac ul at us Red goatfish Ablcnucs hians Garfish Citharichlhys artijrons Gulf stream flounder Euthynnus allctcratus Albacore Germo alalunga Albacore ( 'oryphaena hippurus Dolphin Eupomaccntrus leucostictus Beau gregory 84 are used to encircle the school of lish and then the bottom of the net is closed, forming a pocket which traps the fish. Along some of Rhode Island's coastline, haul seines are used to catch migratory species such as summer flounder, striped bass, and bluefish. Harpoons are used exclusively in the commercial capture of swordfish. Gill nets are infrequently used in the summer and fall for the capture of bluefish. Most of the common eels are cap- tured by eel pots. Lastly, there are a few commercial fishermen who still use hand lines and trawls with hooks for codfish and pollock. Sport fishermen, who outnumber the commercial fishermen about 100 to 1 in Rhode Island, are interested chiefly in the pursuit of five major species. They are striped bass, bluefish, tautog, flounder and weakfish. These five species, with the exception of flounder, are of minor importance to the commercial fishermen. Table 1 shows that the landings of commercial fishermen consisted mainly of butterfish, menhaden, herring, scup, cod, flounder and trash fish during the past ten years. This present study demonstrates the presence of 40 ''new" species of fish present in Rhode Island waters since the publication of Tracy's "Annotated List of Fishes of Rhode Island," in 1910. As can be seen from Table 2, the majority of these species are southern varieties, with a few exceptions. The appearance of these warm water species can be attributed to one major factor, which is an increase in the water temperature of the coastal areas of Rhode Island since 1910. Taylor, Bigelow and Graham (1957) cite the fol- TABLE 3 Fresh Water Fish Sometimes Found in Brackish Water of Coastal Rivers of Rhode Island Scientific name Common name Salmo trutta Brown trout Salvelinus fontinalis Brook trout Ameiurus nebulosis Brown bullhead Esox niger Chain pickerel Perca flavescens Yellow perch Micropterus salmoidcs Largemouth black bass 85 lowing factors to verify the warming trend in New England waters : 1. A long-term upward trend in air temperatures in New England is evident from the record. The increase has been greatest for the winter months. 2. Upward trends in winter sea temperatures are shown for St. Andrews, N. B., Boothbay Harbor, Maine, and Woods Hole, Mass. The correlation of January water temperatures at Boothbay Harbor with January air temperatures at New Haven, Conn., and Eastport, Maine, indicates a long-term upward trend in surface temperatures corresponding to that for winter air temperatures. 3. Hydrographic data for the Gulf of Maine in 1953 and 1954, indicate an increase of from 1° to 5° F. throughout the water column since the period 1912-26 for most parts of the Gulf. The presence of a few temperate and cold water species not in Tracy's list can be attributed to the greater fishing intensity now carried on in Rhode Island waters. Fifty years ago the majority of the fish were obtained by trapping or seining. Offshore fishing was done with an inefficient beam trawl or with hook and line. Today, trawl vessels can fish with large, efficient nets at variable depths, guided to their quarry with electronic fish-finding devices such as "fathometers" and "fish-finders." Occasionally fresh water species of fish stray into the tidal brackish waters of coastal rivers. Table 3 lists fresh water species of fish which have been reported in the brackish coastal rivers of Rhode Island. Much of the data for Table 3 was obtained from Horton (1958). Thirty-one species of fish which are included in this survey, but have not been recorded in Rhode Island waters during the past 40 years, are listed in Table 4. Included in this list are five species of flying fish. These pelagic species appear to be present in waters off Block Island, but are very difficult to capture. A list of fish of questionable identification from Rhode Island waters appears in Table 5. These species are doubtful because they were immature specimens or their place of capture is not clear. In the case of the African lildish (Batistes forcipatus), only one specimen was collected in 1867. This may have been a mutation or variation of a species of North American filefish. 86 TABLE 4 List of Fish Species Not Reported in Rhode Island Waters during the Past 40 Years Scientific name Common name Paragaleus pectoralis Shark Bagre marinus Sea catfish Galeichthyes felis Catfish Etrumeus sadina Round herring Euleptorhamphus velox Slender halfbeak Parexocoetus mesogaster Flyingfish Exoeoetus speculiger Flyingfish Cypsilurus heterurus Single-bearded flyingfish Cypsil urns /ureal us Double-bearded flyingfish Cypsilurus gibbifrons Flyingfish Sphyraena guachancho Barracuda Auxis 1 hazard Frigate mackerel Scomberomorus regalis Cero Traehinotus earolinus Common pompano Epinephclus niveatus Snowy grouper Ryptieus bistrispinus Soapfish Loboles surinamensis Tripletail Lutianus griseas Grey snapper Lutianus blaekjordii Red snapper Archosargus probatocephalus Sheepshead Kyphosus seetalrix Rudder fish Chaetodipterus faber Spadefish Rhomboehirus osleoehir Spearfish sucker Vivaria suhbfurcata Radiated shanny Cryptacanthodcs maeulatus Wrymouth Lycodes reticulatus Arctic eelpout Lycenchelys verrillii Wolf eel Lactophrys trigonus Boxfish Cheilichthys testudineus Glovefish Cheilichthys triehoeephalis Hairy blowfish Dibrauehus atlanticus Batfish TABLE 5 List of Questionable Rhode Island Fishes Scientific name Common name Paragaleus peetoralis Shark Galeichthyes felis Sea catfish Balistes forcipatus Powell's filefish Lactophrys trigonus Trunkfish Cheilichthys trichocephalus Hairy blowfish 87 VI. Summary 1 . Two hundred and fifteen species of fish have been observed or reported in the coastal waters of Rhode Island; 40 of these had not been previously recorded in Tracy's (1910) list. 2. Four species noted in this volume had not been definitely re- ported from New England waters in any previous book. These species are Calamus bajonado, Caranx bartholomaei, Gobiosoma ginsburgi and Upeneus maculatus. 3. One species, Eupomacentrus Jeiicostictus, described in this study had not been reported in New England waters since 1899. 4. Four possible record sized fish from Rhode Island waters have been described in this study. They are Lagodon rhomboides, (14.5 inches TL); Balistes carolinensis, (19 inches TL); Cydopterus lumpus, (23.5 inches TL); and Macrorhamphosus scolopax, (5.5 inches TL). VII. Bibliography Ackerman, Edward A. 1941. New England fishing industry. 303 pp., Univ. of Chicago Press, Chicago. Arnold, Edgar L., Jr. 1949. Unusual occurrence of fish on New England banks. Copeia, No. 4, pp. 299- 300. 1951. Northward dispersal of warm-water marine fishes in southern New England during the summer of 1949. Copeia, No. 1, pp. 87-88. Bean, Tarleton, H. 1901. Catalogue of the fishes of Long Island with notes upon their distribution, common names, habits, and rates of growth. 6th Ann. Rept. Forest Fish & (lame Comm. of N. Y. State, pp. 373-478. Beebe, William, and Tee- Van, John. 1928. The fishes of Port-Au-Prince Bay, Haiti, with a summary of the known species of marine fish of the island of Haiti and Santo Domingo. Zoologica, Vol. 10, No. 1, 279 pp., illus. 1933. Field book of the shore fishes of Bermuda. 337 pp., 343 illus. G. P. Putnam's Sons, New York. Berg, Leo S. 1947. Classification of fishes, both recent and fossil. 517 pp., illus. Edwards Bros., Inc. Ann Arbor, Mich. Bigelow, Henry B., et al. 1948. Lancelets, by Bigelow, H. B., and Farfante, I. P., 28 pp., 3 figs.; Cyclostomes and sharks, by Bigelow, H. B. and Schroeder, W. C, pp. 29-257, figs. 4-106; Fishes of the western North Atlantic. Part I. Mem. Sears Foundation Marine Res. No. 1. Bigelow, Henry B., and Schroeder, William C. 1953a. Sawfishes, guitarfishes, skates and rays; Chimaeroids, xv 588 pp., 127 figs.; Fishes of the western North Atlantic. Part II. Mem. Sears Foundation Marine Res. No. 1. 1953b. Fishes of the Gulf of Maine. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Fishery Bull. 74, vol. 53, pp. i-vii, 1-577, 288 figs. Blair. Frank W.; Blair, Albert P.; Brodkorb, Pierce; Cagle, Fred R.; and Moore, George A. 1957. Vertebrates of the United States. McGraw-Hill Book Co., New \~ork. Breder, C. M., Jr. 1929. Field book of marine fishes of the Atlantic Coast from Labrador to Texas. 332 pp., 403 illus., 8 colored pis. G. P. Putnam's Sons, New York. 89 Bumpus, H. C. 1900. A list of the fishes of Narragansett Bay. Rept. of Commissioners of Inland Fisheries for 1900. Providence, R. I. Chute, W. H., et al. 1948. Common and scientific names of the better known fishes of the United States and Canada. Am. Fish. Soc, Spec. Publ. 1, pp. 1-45. Edwards, Robert L. 1958. Species composition of the 1957 industrial trawl fish landings in New England. Interim Report No. 2. N. Atlantic Fishery Investigations Woods Hole, 23 pp. Evermann, Barton W., and Marsh, Millard C. 1902. The fishes of Puerto Rico. Bull. U. S. Fish. Comm. for 1900, vol. 20, pt. 1, pp. 49-350, 112 figs., 49 colored pis. Fowler, Henry W. 1906. The fishes of New Jersey. Ann. Rep. New Jersey State Mus., 1905, pt. 2, pp. 35-477, 103 pis., 81 figs. 1917. Notes on New England fishes, Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., Vol. 35, No. 4 pp. 109-138, 8 figs. Ginsburg, Isaac. 1952. Flounders of the Genus Paraliclithys and related genera in American waters. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Bull. 71, vol. 52, pp. 267-351, 15 pis. Goode, George Brown. 1884. Natural history of useful aquatic animals. Pt. 3. The food fishes of the U. S. Fish. Ind. of U. S. Sec. 1, pp. 169-549, 610-612, 629-681. Goode, G. B., and Bean, T. H. 1895. Oceanic ichthyology. U. S. Nat. Mus. Special Bull. 2, text, 553 pp., Atlas, 417 figs. Gordon, Bernard L. 1954a. My bout with a lumpfish. Natural History, Vol. 63, No. 2, pp. 68-71. 1954b. The hungry anglerfish. Nature Magazine, Vol. 47, No. 9, pp. 469-471. 1954c. Lumpfish are good eating. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 8, No. 8, pg. 28. 1954d. Goosefish a hearty eater. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 8, No. 9, pg. 32. 1955a. Tilefish taste like chops. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 9, No. 6. 1955b. Hake live in scallop shells. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 9, No. 7, pg. 8. 1955c. Good for itch (angel shark). Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 9, No. 8, pg. 8. 1955d. Butterfish eat sandfleas. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 9, No. 9, pg. 8. 1955e. Lamprey eel not an eel. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 9, No. 10, pg. 8. 1955f. Scup eggs hatch in 40 hours. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 9, No. 11, pg. 28. 1955g. Blowfish epicure's delight. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 9, No. 12, pg. 32. 1955h. Old "Rough Tooth" (maneater shark). Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 1, pg. 28. 1955i. Stingaree well armed. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 2, pg. 28. 1955j. Remora a hitchhiker. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 3, pg. 9. 1955k. Anglers and eaters prize bonito. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 4. 19551. Kingfish favor warm water. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 5, pg. 28. 1955m. When the tilefish died. Natural History, Vol. 64, No. 5, pp. 273-275. 1955n. The vicious sea lamprey. The Fisherman, Vol. 6, No. 10, pp. 32-37. 1956a. Dad pipefish minds kids. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 6. 1956b. Marlin powerful swimmer. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 7, pg. 9. 90 1956c. Sea bass are good eating. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 8. 1956d. Glutton of the sea (bluefish). Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 9, pg. 9. 1956e. Shad the travelling fish. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 10, pg. 9. 19561". Dogfish ruin fish nets. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 11, pg. 9. 1956g. Blackfish a bottom dweller. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 10, No. 12, pg. 9. 1956h. That sea serpent may be a basking shark. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 1. 1956L . . . it's still weakfish. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 2. 1956j. Tuna, torpedo of the deep. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 3. 1956k. Lashing tail brings food to thresher shark. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 4. 19561. The remora, a fish story old but ever new. Frontiers. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., Vol. 20, No. 3, pp. 76-78, 95. 1956m. The paternal pipefish. Nature Magazine, Vol. 49, No. 5, pp. 243-244, 276. 1956n. The amazing angel shark. Bull, of International Oceanographic Foundation. Vol. 2, No. 2, pp. 109-111. 1956o. Sea-going hitchhiker. The Fisherman, Vol. 7, No. 11, pp. 66-69. 1957a. The migrant mackerel. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 6, pg. 10. 1957b. The menhaden. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 7, pg. 10. 1957c. The cod, Cape Cod turkey. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 8, pg. 10. 1957d. The nimble pollock. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 9, pg. 10. 1957e. The spiny boxfish. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 10, pg. 10. 19571". The skate. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 11, No. 11, pg. 10. 1957g. The striper a favorite fish. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 4, pg. 10. 1957h. The common cunner. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 5, pg. 10. 1957i. The eel. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 6, pg. 10. 1957j. Titan of the seas. Natural History, Vol. 66, No. 5, pp. 272-274. 1957k. The migratory shad. The Fisherman, Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 14-16, 80. 19571. A tale of thunnus. The Fisherman, Vol. 8, No. 9, pp. 25-26, 95. 1957m. The spin)' boxfish. Frontiers, Vol. 22, No. 1, pp. 21, 22. 1957n. The skate, primitive fish. Frontiers, Vol. 22, No. 2, pp. 38-39, 64. 1958a. The flavorful smelt. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 6, pg. 10. 1958b. The sturgeon. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 7, pg. 10. 1958c. The rabbitfish. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 8, pg. 10. 1958d. The ocean pout. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 9, pg. 10. 1958e. The omnivorous codfish. Nature Magazine, Vol. 51, No. 4, pp. 205-207. 1958f. The John Dory. Maine Coast Fisherman, Vol. 12, No. 10. Graham, Joseph. 1958. Rhode Island trash fishery, (ms.) Narragansett Marine Laboratory Library, Kingston, R. I. Guenther, Klaus, and Deckart, Kurt. 1956. Creatures of the deep sea. 222 pp., 140 figs., colored pis. Charles Scribner's Sons, New York. Hildebrand, Samuel F., and Schroeder, William C. 1928. Fishes of Chesapeake Bay. Bull. U. S. Bur. Fish, for 1927, Vol. 43, pt. 1, 388 pp., 211 figs. Horton, Donald 1958. Masters Thesis. University of Rhode Island. 91 Johnson, Frank M. 1902. Forest, lake and river, the fishes of New England and Eastern Canada. 2 vols., Privately printed (ltd. to 350 copies) Boston. 681 pp. Jordan, David S. 1905. A guide to the study of fishes. 2 vols., 427 illus. Henry Holt & Co., New York. 1925. Fishes. 773 pp., 673 figs., 18 pis. D. Appleton and Co., New York. Jordan, David S., and Evermann, B. W. 1896-1900. The fishes of North and Middle America, a descriptive catalogue of the species of fishlike vertebrates found in the waters of North America, north of the isthmus of Panama. U. S. Nat. Mus. Bull. 47, in 4 vols., 3,313 pp., 392 pis. 1902. American food and game fishes. 573 pp., 221 figs., 66 pis., 9 color pis. Double- day, Page & Co., N. Y. Jordan, David Starr; Evermann, Barton Warren; and Clark, Howard Walton. 1930. Checklist of the fishes and fishlike vertebrates of North and Middle America north of the northern boundary of Venezuela and Columbia. Rep. U. S. Comm. Fish. 1928 with Appendices, pt. 2, Doc. No. 1055, pp. 1-670. (Reprinted in 1956.) Kendall, William C. 1914-1935. The fishes of New England: Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. 8, pt. 1, 1914, 103 pp., 7 col. pis.; vol. 9, pt. 2, 1935, 166 pp., 11 col. pis. LaMonte, Francesca. 1946. North American game fishes. 202 pp., 71 pis. Doubleday & Co., Garden City, N. Y. Linsley, J. H. 1844. Catalogue of the fishes of Connecticut. Amer. Jour. Sci. and Arts, vol. 47, 71 pp. McFarland, Raymond. 1911. A history of New England fisheries. 457 pp. Univ. of Pennsylvania. Merriman, Daniel M. 1941. Studies on the striped bass. Fish Bull. 35 U.S.F.W.S., U.S.G.P.O.. Washing- ton, D. C, 77 pp. Merriman, Daniel M. and Sclar, Ruth. 1952. The pelagic fish eggs and larvae of Block Island Sound. Bull. Bingham Ocean. Coll., vol. XIII, art. 3, pp. 165-220. Moore, Emmeline. 1947. The sand flounder Lopliopsetta aquosa (Mitchill); a general study of the species with special emphasis on age determination by means of scales and otoliths. Bull. Bingham Ocean. Coll., vol. XI, art. 3, pp. 1-79. Morrow, James E., Jr. 1951. The biology of the longhorn sculpin Myoxocephalus octodecimspinosus (Mitchill); with a discussion of the southern New England "trash" fishery. Bull. Bingham Ocean. Coll., vol. XIII, art. 2. pp. 1-89. 1956. The jolthead porgy, Calamus bajonado, Bloch and Schneider, a first record For New England waters. Copeia, No. 3, pp. 194-195. Nichols, J. T. and Breder, C. M., Jr. 1927. The marine fishes of New York and Southern New England. Zoologica, New York Zool. Soc, vol. 9, No. 1, New York, 192 pp. 92 Norman, J. R. 1931. A history of fishes. E. Benn, Ltd. London, 463 pp. illus. Norman, J. R. and Fraser, F. C. 1949. Field hook of giant fishes. New York, G. P. Putnam. 376 pp. Olsen, V. H. and Merriman, Daniel. 1946. The biology and economic importance of the ocean pout Macrozoarces ameri- canus (Bloch and Schneider) Bull. Bingham Ocean. Coll., vol. 9, art. 4, pp. 1-184. Raney, E. C; Tresselt, E. F.; Hollis, E. H.; Vladykov, V. D.; and Wallace, D. H. 1952. The striped bass. Bull. Bingham Ocean. Coll., vol. 14, art. 1, 177 pp. Rhode Island Landings. 1954-1958. U.S.F.W.S. and R. I. Div. of Fish and Game, Washington, I). C. Rounsefell, G. A. and Everhart, W. H. 1953. Fishery science, its methods and applications. Wiley, New York, 444 pp. Rounsefell, G. A. and Stringer, L. D. 1945. The New England alewife fisheries. Trans. Am. Fish. Soc. 73: 394-424. Sanders, Howard L. 1952. The herring (Clupea harengus) of Block Island Sound. Bull. Bingham Ocean. Coll., vol. 13, art. 3, pp. 220-237. Schultz, Leonard P. (with Stern, Edith M.) 1948. The ways of fishes. 264 pp., illus. D. Van Nostrand Co., New York. Sharp, B. and Fowler, H. W. 1905. The fishes of Nantucket. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Vol. 56. Phil., pp. 504-512. Storer, David H. 1839. A report on the fishes of Massachusetts. Bost. Jour. Nat. Hist., Vol. 2, pp. 289-558. 1867. A history of the fishes of Massachusetts, Cambridge and Boston, 287 pp. Taylor, Clyde C; Bigelow, H. B. and Graham, H. B. 1957. Climatic trends and the distribution of marine animals in New England. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Fishery Bull. 115, vol. 57, pp. 293-345. Taylor, Harden F.; Marshall, N.; Ellison, W. A.; Roelofs, E. W.; and LaMonte, P. 1951. Survey of marine fisheries of North Carolina, with a comprehensive view of the economics of national and world fisheries, 555 pp. Univ. North Carolina Press. Tracy, Henry C. 1910. Annotated list of fishes known to inhabit the waters of Rhode Island. 40th Ann. Rept. Comm. Inland Fisheries, Rhode Island, pp. 35-176. Tressler, Donald K. and Lemon, James McW. 1951. Marine products of commerce; their acquisition, handling, biological aspects and the science and technology of their preparation and preservation . . . 2d ed. rev. and enl. Reinhold, 782 pp., illus. Warfel, H. E. and Merriman, D. 1944. An analysis of the fish population of the shore zone. Bull. Bingham Ocean. Coll. Vol. IX, art. 2, pp. 1-19. 93 VIII. Acknowledgements The writer wishes to express his gratitude and appreciation to Donald J. Zinn, Saul B. Saila, and Robert A. DeWolf for their untiring assistance and excellent counsel in this study. Thanks are also due to John A. Rankin, Jr. for making avail- able to the writer fish specimens in the collection of the Zoology Department of the University of Connecticut. The author wishes to acknowledge communications from the following individuals regarding the fish collections at their in- stitutions: Leonard P. Schultz, Curator of fishes, Smithsonian In- stitution; Francesca LaMonte, Associate Curator of Fishes, Amer- ican Museum of Natural History; John Tee Van, General Director, New York Zoological Society Aquarium; Henry W. Fowler, Curator of Fishes, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Phila- delphia; William C. Schroeder, Harvard Museum of Compara- tive Zoology; Daniel Merriman, Bingham Oceanographic Lab- oratory. The writer would like to express his gratitude to the commercial fishermen of Rhode Island who contributed data and specimens to this study, especially to Willis Clark, Theophilus Silva and Ellery Thompson. The author's thanks are due Mary M. Keeffe, whose helpful suggestions and encouragement were a great aid in the preparation of this book. Herbert Perluck's aid in checking the manuscript is appreciated. Lastly, the writer would like to acknowledge the assistance of Kay Donahue, typist, his wife, Esther, Joseph Gordon and Robert J. Daily in the production of this volume. 94 IX. Index PAGE albacore 47, 48 false 47 long-finned 48 alewife 23 alligator fish 69 amberfish 54 amberjack 53, 54 American eel 29 American John Dory 41 anchovy 26 striped 27 angel fish 72 angel shark 15 anglerfish 80 Arctic eelpout 76 armored sea robin 70 Atlantic salmon 27 bajonado 62 barn-door skate 16 barracuda 43 northern 43 barrelfish 52 basking shark 10 bass, sea 59 striped 57 bastard cusk 75 batfish 81 beau gregory 65 bergall 71 big-eyed scad 55 big-eye 60 deep 60 big skate 17 billfish 31, 32.50 blackback 24 blackback flounder 39 black bass 59 PAGE black drum 65 blackfish 71 black flatfish 41 black grunt 60 black perch 59 black pilot 65 black ruff 53 black sea bass 59 blackwing 32 blenny 76 blanquillo 66 blowfish 79 blueback 22, 24 blue dog 13 bluefin tuna 48 bluelish 57 Boston 35 blue shark 8, 13 bluntnosed flying fish 33 boar fish 67 bon yfish 25 bonito 47 striped 48 bonnethead shark 14 Boston bluefish 35 Boston hake 35 bottlefish 78 boxfish 78 bream 62 brier skate 17 broadbill 50 broad killyfish 30 brook trout 27 brown shark 13 buckie 23 bullseye 46 bunker 25 burrfish 80 95 PAGE butterfish 52 butterfly fish 72 butterfly ray 19 Canadian plaice 37 catalufa 60 catfish, gafftopsail 21 sea 21 cereen 49 chain dogfish 11 chicken halibut 37 chickret 63 chogy 71 chopper 57 chub mackerel 46 cigarfish 54 cod 34 rock 34 torn 34 conger eel 29 congo eel 76 cornetfish 45 cow-nosed ray 19 cow-pilot 66 crampfish 16 crevalle 54 croaker 64 cunner 71 cusk 36 bastard 75 cusk eel 75 cutlassfish 50 dab, American 37 rough 37 demoiselle 66 devil fish 68 devil ray 20 dogfish 15 chain 11 shark 7 smooth 11 spiny 15 dollarfish 52, 55, 56 dolphin 51 doormat 37 drum, black 65 dusky shark 13 PAGE eagle ray 19 eastern pickerel 28 eel, American 29 conger 29 cusk 75 fresh-water 29 sea 29 wolf 76 eelback flounder 40 eelpout 76 Arctic 76 electric ray 16 eyed skate 17 false albacore 47 filefish 78 orange 78 flatfish 39 flounder, blackback 39 craig 40 four-spotted 38 Gulf Stream 41 sand 40 smooth 40 summer 37 windowpane 40 winter 39 witch 40 fluke 37 flying fish 32,33, 71 flying gurnard 71 foolfish 78 four-bearded rockling 36 four-spined stickleback 44 four-spotted flounder 38 frigate mackerel 47 frostfish 33,34 gafftopsail catfish 21 garfish 31 gar, silver 31 ghostfish 75 globefish 79 glut herring 24 goatfish 74 goby, naked 73 Ginsburg's 73 goggle-eyed scad 55 goosefish 80 96 PAGE grayfish 15 gray snapper 61 gray sole 40 greenback 24 ground shark 7 grouper 59 grunt 60 grubby sculpin 67 gulf stream flounder 41 gunnel 75 gurnard 70 flying 71 haddock 34 hairy blowfish 79 hake, Boston 35 red 35 spotted 36 squirrel 35 white 35 halfbeak 31 halibut 37 hammerhead 14 handsaw-fish 29 hardhead 46, 64 hardtail 54 harvestfish 52 headfish 80 herring, big-eyed 21 glut 24 river 23 round 22 sea 22 shad 24 thread 25 hickory shad 23 hickory jack 23 hogchoker 41 horse mackerel 48 jack 54 jack crevalle 54 John Dory 41 jolt-head porgy 62 killifish 30 kingfish 49, 65 king hake 36 king whiting 65 PAGE lamprey, sea 7 lancetfish 29 launce 74 leather jacket 56 leopard shark 12 leopard skate 17 ling 35, 76 little sculpin 67 little skate 17 little sturgeon 20 little tunny 47 lizard fish 28 long-finned albacore 48 lookdown 56 lump 69 lumpfish 69 lump sucker 69 mackerel 46 chub 46 frigate 47 horse 48 painted 49 Spanish 49 mackerel scad 54 mademoiselle 64 mako, Atlantic 8 maneater 9 manta ray 20 marlin, white 51 menhaden 25 minnow, salt-water 30 sheepshead 30 mola 80 molykite 80 monkfish 15 moonfish 55, 56, 72 mousefish 81 mullet 43 jumping 43 red 74 silver 43 white 43 mummichog, common 30 striped 30 mummy 30 needlefish 31, 32 New England sea snail 69 97 PAGE nine-spined stickleback 4-4 northern barracuda 43 numbfish 16 ocean perch 67 ocean pout 76 ocean sunfish 80 oysterfish 80 parche 72 perch, ocean 67 sand 64 silver 64 white 59 pickerel 28 pilotfish 53 pinfish 62 pipefish, common 45 plaice 37, 40 pogy 25 polefish 52 pollock 35 pompano, common 57 round 56 porbeagle 8 porcupine fish 80 porgy 61 pout, eel 76 ocean 76 Powell's filefish 77 prickly skate 17 puffer 79 rabbitfish 78 radiated shanny 75 raven, sea 68 ray, butterfly 19 cow-nosed 19 devil 20 eagle 19 electric 16 sting 18 red bream 67 redfish 67 red goatfish 74 red hake 35 red mullet 74 red raven 68 red snapper 61 remora 73 PAGE ribbonfish 50 robin 70 rock cod 34 rock eel 75 rockfish 57,75 rockling, fourdoearded 36 rosefish 67 resetted skate 17 rough scad 55 round herring 22 round robin 54 rudderfish 52, 53, 63 runner 54 rusty dab 38 sailor's choice 62 salmon, Atlantic 27 Salter 27 sand bar shark 13 sand dab 40 sand eel 74 sand flounder 40 sand launce 74 sand perch 64 sand shark 7 sand pike 28 sardine 22 sargassum fish 81 saurel 55 saury 32 sawbelly 23 scabbardfish 50 scad 54 sculpin, Arctic 68 daddy 68 gray 68 Greenland 68 little 67 longhorn 68 shorthorn 68 scup 61 sea bass 59 sea bat 81 sea catfish 21 sea eel 29 sea herring 11 sea horse 45 sea lamprey 7 sea perch 59 98 PAGE sea poacher 6° sea raven 68 sea robin 70 armored 70 common 70 striped 70 sea snail 69 striped 70 sea sturgeon 20 sea trout 27, 63 sergeant-major 66 shad 24 herring 25 hickory 23 shanny 75 shark angel 15 basking 10 blue 8, 13 bone 10 bonnet 14 brown 13 carpet 11 dogfish 7 dusky 13 hammerhead 14 leopard 12 mackerel 8 nurse 11 sand 7 tiger 12 thresher 10 white 9 shark pilot 53 shark remora 73 sharp-nosed skate 16 sheepshead 63 sheepshead minnow 30 shiner 42 short-nosed sturgeon 20 short-wing flying fish 32 shovelhead 14 shovelnose 13 silver gar 31 silver hake 33 silver king 21 silver perch 64 silverside 42 waxen 42 PAGE single bearded flying fish 32 skate, barn door 16 skate, big 17 brier 17 eyed 17 leopard 17 little 17 prickly 17 rossetted 17 smooth-tailed 18 spotted 17 starry 18 summer 17 thorny 18 winter 17 skipjack 31, 47 smelt 27 smooth dogfish 11 smooth flounder 40 smooth puffer 78 smooth-tailed skate 18 snapper 57, 61 snipefish 42 snowball 79 snowy grouper 59 soapfish 60 sole 41 spadefish 72 Spanish mackerel 49 spearfish sucker 74 sperling 42 spiny dogfish 15 spot 64 spotted hake 36 spotted grouper 59 spotted skate 17 squeteague 63 squirrel hake 35 starfish 52 starry skate 18 stickleback 44 four-spined 44 nine-spined 44 three-spined 44 two-spined 44 stingaree 18 sting ray 18 striped bass 57 striped bonito 48 99 PAGE striped mullet 43 striped mummichog 30 striper 57 sturgeon, little 20 sea 20 short-nosed 20 summer flounder 37 summer skate 17 sundial 40 sunfish, oceanic 80 swellfish 79 swiveltail 10 swordfish 50 swordfish sucker 73 tarpon 21 tautog 71 ten pounder 21 thorny skate 18 threadfin 56 thread herring 25 thresher 10 tiger shark 12 tilefish 66 tinker 46 toadfish 77 torpedo 16 triggerfish 77 tripletail 60, 72 PAGE trunkfish 78 tuna 48 tunny 48 tusk 36 two-spined stickleback 44 ulva-fish 75 unicorn fish 78 watermelon 47 weakfish 63 whip-tailed shark 10 whitebait 42 white hake 35 white marlin 51 white perch 59 white shark 9 whiting 33 windowpane 40 winter flounder 39 winter skate 17 witch flounder 40 wolf eel 76 wolffish 75 wrymouth 75 yellow jack 54, 55 vellowtail 38, 64 INDEX TO SCIENTIFIC NAMES PAGE Ablennes hians 31 Abudefduf marginal us 66 A chinis fasciatus 41 Acipenser brevirostrum 20 Acipenser slurio 20 Alectis crimtiis 56 Alepisaurus ferox 29 Alopias vulpinus 10 Alosa sapidissima 24 Alutera schoepfii 78 Ameiurus nebulosis 85 A mmodytes americanus 74 Anarhichas lupus 75 . I nchoa Itepsetus 27 PAGE A nchoa mitchilli 26 . 1 nguilla rostrata 29 . 1 ntigonia capros 67 A peltes quadracus 44 Archosargus probatocephalus 63 Aspidophoroides monopterygius 69 A uxis thazard 47 Bagre mar inns 21 Bairdiella chrysura 64 Bali sirs carolinmsis 77 Batistes forcipatus 77 Brevootia tyrannus 25 Bros me brosmc 36 100 PAGE Calamus bajonado 62 Caranx bartholomaei 55 Caranx crysos 54 Caranx hippos 54 Carcharias Iannis 7 Care liar hin us milberti 13 Carcliarliinus obscurus 13 Carcharodon carcharias 9 Caulolatilus microps 66 Centroloplms niger 53 Centra pr isles striatus 59 Celorhinus maximus 10 Chaetodipterus faber 72 Chaetodon ocellalus 72 Clieilichtliys testudineus 79 ( 'heilichthys trichocephalus 79 Chilomycterus schoepfii 80 Citharichthys arctifrons 41 Clupea harengits 22 Conger oce.anica 29 Coryphaena hip punts 51 Cryptacanthodes macidatus 75 Cyclapterus litmpus 69 Cynoscion regalis 63 Cyprinodon variegatus 30 Cyp-elurus furcatus 33 Cypsei ' urns gibbifrons 33 Cypsel tints heterurus 32 Dactylopterns volitans 71 Dasyatis cenlroura 18 Decaptertts macarelltts 54 Decaptents pttnetatus 54 Dibranclms atlanlicus 81 Echeneis n a tic rates 73 Elops saurus 21 Enchelyopits cimbrius 36 Epinepheltts nivealits 59 Esox niger 28 Etntmeits sadina 22 Eulcptorham pints velox 31 Eupotnacenlrus lencostictns 65 Eitthynntts alleterattts 47 Exocoettis speculiger 32 Fistitlaria tabacaria 45 Fitndiilns diapltanus 30 101 P\GE Ftindulits htieroditiis 30 I'tindnliis majalis 30 Gadus callarias 34 Galeichthyes felis 21 Galeocerdo cuvier 12 Gaslerosteus aculeatus 44 Gasterosteus wheatlandi 44 Germo alalunga 48 Ginglymostoma cirratum 11 Glyptocephalus cynoglossus 40 Gobiosotna bosci 73 Gobiosoma ginsburgi 73 Gymtmra altavela 19 Hemitripteriis americanus 68 Hippocampus hitdsonius 45 Hippoglossoides platessoides 37 Hippoglossits liippoglossus 37 Histrio p ictus 81 Hyporhamphus unifasciatus 31 Isttrus oxyrinchus 8 Kyphosus sectatrix 63 Lactophrys trigontts 78 Lagocephalus laevigatus 78 Lagodon rhomboides 62 Lamna nasus 8 Leiostomus xanthitrus 64 Limanda ferruginea 38 Liopsetla put nam i 40 Liparis liparis 70 Lobotes surinamensis 60 Lopholatiltis chaniaeleonticeps 66 Lophitts americanus 80 Lophopsetta maculata 40 Littianits blackfordii 61 Lutianits griseus 61 Lycenchelys verrillii 76 Lycodes reticulatus 76 Macrorhamphosus scolopax 42 Macrozoarces americanus 76 Makaira albida 51 Makaira ampla 51 Mania biroslris 20 PAGE Melanogrammus aeglefinus 34 Menidia beryllina 42 Menidia menidia 42 Menticirrhus saxatilis 65 Merluccius bilinearis 33 Microgadus tomcod 34 Micro pogon undulatus 64 Micro plerus salmoides 85 Mola mola 80 Monacanthus hispidus 78 Morone americana 59 Mugil cephalus 43 Mugil curema 43 Mullus auratus 74 Mustelus canis 11 M yliobatis freminvilli 19 Myoxocephalus aeneus 67 Myoxocephalus octodecims pinosus 68 Myoxocephalus scorpius 68 Naucrates ductor 53 Xeuliparis atlanticus 69 Oligoplites saurus 56 Opisthonema oglinum 25 Opsanus tan 77 Osmerus mordax 27 Paragaleus pectoralis 12 Paralichthys dentatus 37 Paraliclithys oblongus 38 Parexocoetus mesogaster 32 Parinurichthyes perciformis 52 Peprilus alepidotus 52 Perca flavescens 85 Peristedion mmiatum 70 Petromyzon niarip^St- 7 Pliolis gunnellu* 75 Pneumatophorus colias 46 Pogonias cromis 65 Pollachius virens 35 Pomatomus saltatrix 57 Pomolobus aestivalis 24 Pomolobu mediocris 23 Pomolobus pseudoliarengus 23 Poronolus triacanthus 52 Priacanthus arenathus 60 Prionace glauca 13 PAGE Prionotus carolinus 70 Prionotus evolans 70 Pseudo pleuronectes americanus 39 Pseudopriacantlius alius 60 Pungitius pungitius 44 Raja eglanteria 17 Raja erinacea 17 Raja garmani 17 Raja laevis 16 Raja ocellata 17 Raja radiata 18 Raja senta 18 Remora bracliyptera 73 Rhinoptera bonasus 19 Rhombochirus osteochir 74 Roccus saxatilis 57 Rypticus bistrispinus 60 Salmo salar 27 Salmo trutta 85 Salvelinus fotitinalis 27 Sarda sarda 47 Sarda velox 48 Scomber scombrus 46 Scomberesox saurus 32 Scomberomorus maculatus 49 Scomberomorus regalis 49 Scyliorhinus retifer 11 Sebasles marinus 67 Selene vomer 56 Seriola lalandi 54 Seriola zonata 53 Sphaeroides maculatus 79 Spliyraena borealis 43 Sphyraena guachancho 43 Sphyrna tiburo 14 Sphyrna zygaena 14 Squalus acantliias 15 Squat ina dumeril 15 Stenotomus versicolor 61 Syngnathus fuscus 45 Synodus foetens 28 Tarpon atlanticus 21 Tauloga onilis 71 Tautogolabrus adspersus 71 Thunnus thvnnus 4S 102 Torpedo nobiliana 16 Tracliinotus carolinus 56 Trachinotus falcatus 56 Trachurops crumenophthalmus 55 Trachurus trachurus 55 Trichiurus lepturus 50 Tylosurus marinus 31 U poicus maculatus 74 Urophycis cluiss 35 [ Wophycis regius 36 Urophycis tenuis 35 Vomer sclapinnis 55 Xiphias gladius 50 Vivaria subbifurcata 75 Zenopsis ocellala 41 NOTE .48, „84, Gal eoc ergo cuvler should read cuvlerl « Euthynnus alleteratus should reaJPalletteratus,, Germo alalunga should" read Thunnus alalunpa a Neollparls should read llparls0 TABLE 2 . Galeqcerdo cuvler should read as P, 12, above* Raja eglenterla should read e^lanteria . Cltharlchthya artlfrons should read arotlfrons, Euthynnus alleteratus should read as Pl"47, above f. Germo alalunga should read as F, 48 above * Neollparls should read as P. 69, above. 103 X. Photographs Plates 1 to 77 Plate 1. Live sea lamprey captured in Block Island Sound by the author. Plate 3. A seven-foot maneater shark being hauled out of the Clark fish trap at Jerusalem, R. I. This large shark has bitten into the tail of an anglerfish. Plate 2. A remora attached to a mako shark. These sucker fish have also been found on swordfish, oceanic sunfish, whales and sea turtles. **mr • ^53l k*. 4 Plate 4. Maneater shark biting tail of anglerfish. Plate 5. Note the large mouth and pointed nose of this basking shark. This species of shark is the largest fish in North Atlantic waters and the second largest species in the world. Specimen captured at Point Judith, R.I., June 1956. Plate 6. Seven-foot thresher shark captured 4 miles SE of Watch Hill. Plate 7. Note the unusual head of this hammerhead shark. They are occasionally captured off New- port and Point Judith during the summer. Plate 8. The spiny dogfish is the most plentiful shark on our Atlantic coast. In Europe they find a ready market as a food fish. 108 4 * Plate 9. Holding up a monkfish or angel shark is Rowland Babbitt of Point Judith, R.I. The angel shark is very common off the British Isles and is an occasional visitor to New England waters. Plate 10. The barn door skate is the largest of the species found in New England waters, sometimes reaching lengths of five or six feet, and weighing around 35 pounds. It is also known as the winter or peck-nosed skate. Plate 11. The topside of a stingray is mottled brown to blend in with the bottom. The stingray has a habit of lying partially submerged in the mud at the bottom of shallow tidal bays and estuaries. Bathers are apt to step on such a stingray without seeing him and receive a painful wound. 109 X Plate 12. Cow-nosed ray taken in Point Judith, R.I. traps. Note knife-like spine at the base of the tail Plate 13. A mermaid's purse is actually the discarded egg case of a skate. Also known as "mermaids' pin cushions", the cases are frequently picked up among patches of sea weed. Plate 14. The 126-lb. sturgeon which was taken 7 miles up the Pawcatuck River on the Conn. -R.I. border. Frank Muoio of Westerly, R.I. stands with his two companions who helped subdue the big fish with eel spears. Plate 15. Trawler filled with sea herring taken off Southern R.I. coast in February. Plate 16. The shad, largest American member of the herring family, can easily be recognized by its oval shape, bluish green back and distinctive silver colored belly. Plate 17. Menhaden or bonyfish Plate 18. Smelts fresh from the Pawcatuck River. Plate 19. Captain Prentice Lamphere of Watch Hill, R.I., a commercial and sport fisherman for over 50 years demonstrates the proper way to pick up a live eel. A^a'* ft*5 ■ ! Plate 20. A double funnel eel trap with eel inside. 4'~ \ 112 Plate 21. Whiting, sometimes called silver hake or frostfish. Plate 22. Twenty pound cod taken at Point Judith. Plate 23. Head of codfish. Cod have been known to swallow ducks, books, boots and oil Plate 24. Haddock from Block Island Sound. Plate 25. The pointed, tapering head of the pollock provides additional speed for the fish as it glides through the water in search of small bait fishes to feed on. Plate 26. A mature squirrel hake. Baby hake of this species from one to two and a half inches long have been recorded as living inside the shells of large sea scallops for safety. .. Plate 27. A 12-lb. doormat fluke or summer flounder is held by Gardner Caswell a crewman on the fish trap boat Wilmar which operates out of Snug Harbor, R.I. *<» Plate 28. A yellowtail flounder which can easily be distinguished by the yellowish color of its tail fin. Plate 29. A blackback or winter flounder which is smaller mouthed than the fluke and is right handed with eyes on the right side. 115 Plate 30. A sand dab or windowpane flounder. These have very little market value and are usually put in with the fish for reduction. Plate 31. The American John Dory. The large dark spot is believed by some superstitious fishermen to be a result of the thumbprint of Saint Peter. Plate 32. Photograph of a S'^-inch snipefish from off Block Island. Plate 33. Pipefish are one of the queerest looking species along our Atlantic coast. They are able to swim in either a vertical or horizontal position and are usually 4 to 8 inches long occasionally reaching a length of 12 inches. Plate 34. Northern seahorse. rH?%. Plate 35. A tinker mackerel. Plate 36. The streamlined bonito reaches a length of three feet and a weight of twelve pounds. Its powerful tail propels the bonito fast enough to capture swiftly moving mackerel and flying fish. ^Mk Plate 37. A 650-lb. tuna comes ashore at Point Judith, R.I. Plate 38. A large white marlin taken in Rhode Island waters off Block Island. White Marlin are the smallest members of the marlin family. Plate 39. A native eleven inch butterfish. Note the small jaws and pointed pectoral fin which are distinctive features of this species. Their color is a greyish blue on the sides with a silvery line on the belly. Plate 40. The dark vertical stripes are a distinctive characteristic of the pilotfish. K>- Plate 41. Lookdowns which stray into Rhode Island waters during summer months. 4*~ Plate 42. Threadlin from Newport. 120 Plate 43. The fast bluefish has a streamline form which enables it to speed through the water attacking almost any fish in its path. Its name is derived from its greenish blue color. ' ^ HHP Plate 44. Head of bluefish. 121 Plate 45. Jack Grant with 36 and 44 pound Plate 47. Captain Manuel Pavis and 48-lb. stripers taken surf-casting with squid at Watch striper taken in Little Narragansett Bay. Hill. Plate 46. These 11 striped bass were taken trolling one evening off Watch Hill, R. I. V* *■ Plate 48. The spines on the sea bass are very sharp and can cause a great deal of pain if they stick in your hand. Plate 49. A rare southern species which strays into Rhode Island waters in late summer and fall is the deep big-eye, Pseudoprincanthus altus. Plate 50. Portrait of a scup. 124 Plate 51. Record sized pinfish, 14.25 inches (362 mm.) TL. From Point Judith on June 8, 1955. Plate 52. Sometimes weakfish are known as chickret, sea trout, grey trout or drummer. This speckled salt water fish is highly regarded by anglers. ,%«*■*"» Plate 53. The kingfish is an unusually tasty fish which is related to the weakfish, drum and croakers. 125 Plate 54. Tilefish at Point Judith Fisheries, Pt. Judith, R.I. Large amounts of tilefish are landed each year in Rhode Island, these being taken out by the Gully off Block Island. This fish is brilliantly colored with hues of yellow, rose, blue, purple, green and pink. Plate 55. Head of tilefish. Plate 56. Boar fish 57 mm. total length. from off Block Island. . ■ ' a -*• 4 Plate 57. Ugly sea raven. t» ■ ■ .» Plate 58. Professor Donald Zinn and Author inspect record lumpfish at Univ. of R.I. Plate 59. Record lumpfish, Cyclopterus lumpus weighing 21 pounds, 4 ounces caught off the Rhode Island coast on March 21, 1953. 128 Plate 60. A large striped sea robin. Note the large fanlike pectoral fins which resemble bird wings. Plate 61. Flying gurnard from Little Narragansett Bay. ** & Hfc> r &\ Plate 62. Known as bergall, chogset, nibbler and cunner, this little fish can provide a very tastv fish chowder. Plate 63. A 16-11). blackfish speared at Watch Hill by Kenneth Parrilla. Plate 64. One of the blackfish's haunts is along rocky shores where it chomps up crabs and mussels with powerful jaws. 129 Plate 65. Butterfly fish with a total length of 22 mm. From VVeekapaug, R.I. Plate 66. Full length view of remora. Plate 67. Close-up of the suction disk in action. The remora is attached with such tenacity that it would take a pull of over twenty pounds to dislodge it. 130 Plate 68. Close-up of the sucking disk of a remora just after it had been removed from a mako shark. Note the serrated edges of the cartilaginous ridges or laminae. The remora attaches itself to a large fish by a slight raising of the ridges creating a series of vacuum chambers between itself and the fish. Plate 69. Congo eel or ocean pout easily identified by big lips, high eyes and conical teetl 131 Plate 70. The toadfish which hibernates in the mud during the winter. Plate 71. Orange filefish taken at Napatree Point by a spear fisherman. 132 * Plate 72. From its oblong shape it is easy to see why the smooth puffer is called "bottle fish". Plate 73. If you examine a blowfish closely you will find that they do not have true scales only small spines. Also they do not have any true teeth. What appear to be teeth in the mouth are the edges of the upper and lower jaws. Plate 74. A pen of inflated swellfish or blowfish on a fishing boat. Commercial fisherman call blowfish in this condition "snowballs". 133 -.-., Plate 75. The burrfish can be identified by its thorny spines, like a coat of armor, and its bulging eyes and wavy stripes. He is a common visitor to New England waters during the summer. Plate 76. Hauling aboard a large anglerfish from the fish trap at Point Judith, R.I. -»<*»■■«»< • V >( *i Plate 77. Author examining a black ruff. 135 Profile of the Author Educator, marine biologist, and writer the author of this volume has had articles appear in many national periodicals, including : Natural History Magazine, The Biologist, Sea Frontiers, Nature Magazine, Fron- tiers, Outdoor Life, Maine Coast Fisherman, Salt Water Sportsman, Fish- ing World and others. He has studied at the University of Rhode Island, Brown University and the University of Massachusetts and has taught biology four years at Rhode Island College, formerly called the Rhode Island College of Education. Following his interest in ichthyology the author is a member of the American Association of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, American Fisheries Society, Society of Systematic Zoologists, Ecological Society of America, National Association of Biology Teachers, International Oceanographic Foundation, Sigma Xi and Phi Sigma scientific socie- ties. He presented a paper on the fishes of Rhode Island at the 1958 annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in Washington, D. C. Serving as a member of the board of di- rectors of the Rhode Island Wildlife Federation, the author has taken an interest in conservation projects throughout Rhode Island. He is 28 years old, married, and resides in Westerly, Rhode Island. This is a limited first edition of 1000 copies produced by Waverly Press, Balti- more, Md., on 70 lb. Mead Richgloss offset enamel, text set in 11 point Monotype Bruce Oldstyle, with Baskerville display. Design by Robert J. Daily. 136 if ** ' 4&^>*k»j>' I* lfiB&$ •j % ^* ..«,«*,-,.. ■w«cS^*!W* mStMm £&&£&!&$$&- .^^.jaftMWMw mmmmmmmmmm »()WiHwm«its(»!iKiiJiii<*M^j»iuni* NM«|I«MHMMW"* muiiiiuiy'1 "*"*'" "*' ' '""" "*"