ALBERT R. MANN LIBRARY New York State Colleges OF Agriculture and Home Economics AT Cornell University Library Bureau Cat. No, 1137 *> *. ’ -^ 4^ . ' . w* \ •! i > i,- 4 THE SEA FISHES SOUTHERN AFRICA hy J. L. B. SMITH B.A., M.Sc. PhD., F.R.S.S.A. Research Professor, and South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Fellow in Ichthyology, Rhodes University College, Grahamstown with a Message from His Excellency the Governor-General of Mozambique and a Foreword by Dr. B. F. J. Schonland, c.b.e., f.r.s.. President of the South African Council for .Scientific and Industrial Research With illustrations hy MARGARET M. SMITH and other artists (See page 2) FIRST PUBLISHED 1949 CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY, LTD. SOUTH AFRICA 1949 QL S (a 17011"'^ This book is dedicated to Mr. Hugh Le May of Lourenyo Marques whose generosity has so largely contributed to its production. •-4 iSC ,1.' i 4. ... .... ^ ^ J ri ‘\ ' J. .. MESSAGE MENSAGEM 1 am very happy to welcome Professor Smith’s comprehensive work on "The Sea Fishes of Southern Africa.” It is noteworthy that much of the scientific research work involved has been carried out in the seas round Lourengo Marques, and I am glad that Portuguese East Africa has been able to make its contribution towards this very valuable treatise. The work represents a lifetime of study by the author, and will fulhi a much needed want to both scientist and fisherman. The book has been com¬ piled with meticulous care and strict attention to detail, and the illustrations in colour and black and white will provide the information which so many people in our Colony of Mocambique and the Union of South Africa will welcome. Not only the author, but the Trustees and Sub¬ scribers who have so generously contributed the necessary funds are to be congratulated on the production of this outstanding book, which cannot fail to give great pleasure to many people. com a maior satisfa(;ao que escrevo duas palavras para apresentagao do not^vel trabalho do Senhor Professor Smith: “The Sea Fishes of Southern Africa.” Sei que uma boa parte do trabalbo de investigagao cientifica foi realizado na zona maritima de Lourenqo Marques, figurando assim em tao valioso tratado interessante contribuiijao da Africa Oriental Por- tuguesa. Esta obra, na qual o Autor empenhou o melhor do sue muito saber, vem preencher flagrante lacuna que tanto embara<;ava quer cientistas quer a propria industria da pesca. O meticuloso cuidado, o escrupulo e o detalhe com que foi elaborado este magnifico trabalho, a perfeigao das ilustra^bes incluindo as coloridas, tornam-no uma fonte valiosi'ssima de informagao e consulta, a disposigao das populagoes de Mozam¬ bique e da Uniao da Africa do Sul. Nao sbmente o Autor, como os “Trustees” e subscritores, que tao compreensivamente promo- veram a publicazao de obra tao util, merecem as minhas mais vivas congratulagbes, assim como nao deixarao de merecer as de todos — que por certo serao muitos — os que lerem este utilissimo livro. Go\ crnor-Cieneral of Mozambique. Governador Geral de Mozambique. 4 ' FOREWORD BY Dr. B. F. J. SCHONI.AND, C.B.E., F.R.S., President of the South A friean Council for Scientific and Industrial Research This book is the Fruit of eighteen years of patient and unremitting study of the sea-fishes of South Africa bv a man who has turned a hobby into a life-work and himself from a research chemist into an ichthyologist of international reputation. As a comprehensive and critical scientific revision of the marine fishes of this region it will be a standard work of permanent value. It will also be of great interest to the large number of people who are not specialists in fishes but who arc interested in knowing more about the types, habits and distribution of those they sec and catch. The author has devoted much ingenious care to making his book one which the layman can use and enjoy. He has provided an original and easily-operated means of identifying any fish so far known in our waters. His wide knowledge of their habits and of the lore of fishermen shows itself on every page and makes interesting and exciting reading. Until his recent appointment as a Research Fellow of my Council enabled him to devote his whole time to this work, Dr. Smith’s journeys in search of his material have taken ail his spare time for many years. He has travelled far and wide along the shores of Southern Africa and by personal contact has stimulated many collectors and fishermen to share his enthusiasm and to help in his work. The book is a reminder to land animals like ourselves that almost three-quarters of the surface of the globe is inhabited by strange and sometimes fantastic forms of life of which we have still much to learn. It includes descriptions of over 200 species of fishes discovered by the author in our waters, many of which are new to science. Amongst them is the living Coelacanth, whose dramatic identification by Dr. Smith in 1938 proved that a type of fish was still in existence which had been thought from fossil records to have died out sixty million years ago. The author indicates the gaps in our knowledge: it is to be hoped that others will be inspired to work in the same fascinating field. The extensive illustration of the book with its many accurate and beautiful coloured pictures make it unique. These alone represent the accomplishment of a tremendous task by the author and his assistants, particularly his wife, who, as helper in his work and partner on his arduous journeys, has been co-author in all but name. This publication has been made possible by the support of subscribers and trustees, without whose generous help it would not have been possible to produce it on its present magnificent scale or to sell it at a price which is far less than its actual cost. They must feel as privileged to have shared in the creation of so rare and exciting a book as I do to have been asked to welcome it on its way. VI •-4 iSC ,1.' i 4. ... .... ^ ^ J ri ‘\ ' J. .. TABLE OF CONTENTS How this Book was made Zones of the Sea and their Fishes The South African Region The Tides . The Effects of Fishing... Scientific Nomenclature Special Note A Classification of Fishes Common Names The Ancestry of F'ishes Hangers of the Shore ... Ichthyology in South Africa ... Cieneral Notes about Fishes Speed and Migration Poison in Fishes ... Sex and Reproduction Sleep Mucus Drinking Salt and Fresh Water Taste Smell... Hearing Sight . Other Senses Air Bladder Touch . Electric Organs Light . Sound Body Temperature Colour Hybridisation PAGH I 5 7 13 15 16 19 20 22 23 24 26 28 28 28 29 29 29 29 29 29 30 30 30 30 30 30 31 31 31 31 32 PAGi; General Notes about Fishes (continued)— Substances Poisonous to Fishes ... 32 Underwater Explosions ... ... 32 Number of Species ... ... . . 32 Preservation and Despatch of Fishes ... 33 Neutral Formalin Solution for Permanent Preservation... ... ... ... ... 33 How to Identify a Fish ... ... ... 34 A Universal Tide Table for South Africa ... 34 Class CHRONDRICHTHYES, Cartilaginous Fishes ... ... ... ... ... 35 Feature of a Typical Chondrichthyan Fish . 35 Sharks . 37 Saw-fishes ... ... ... ... ... 62 Sandsharks ... ... ... ... .. 63 Rays ... ... ... ... ... ... 65 Sting-rays ... ... ... ... ... 67 Devil-rays ... ... ... ... .. 72 Electric Rays ... ... ... 73 Chimaeras ... ... ... ... ... 76 Class OSTEICHTHYES, Bony Fishes ... 79 Coelacanth Fishes ... ... ... ... 79 Ray-finned Bony Fishes ... ... . . 81 Features of a Typical Bony Fish ... ... 81 Bony Fishes, Systematic Account ... . . 85 Distribution Chart of South African Fishes .. 432 Main Key to Bony Fishes ... ... ... 465 Literature List ... ... ... ... 492 .Appendix ... ... ... ... ... 501 Determination of Age in Fishes ... ... 501 Note on Musselcrackers ... ... ... 502 .Additional Species ... ... . . . . 503 Composite Index ... ... ... ... 511 Index to Common Names ... ... ... 546 IX M- LIST OF PLATES (M.ATH Pl.AlI- PACiH PI.ATt PAGE Map 1 35 249 69 331 1 49 36 250 70 332 2 60 37 251 71 332 3 63 38 252 72 334 4 70 39 255 73 337 5 87 40 258 74 339 6 94 41 261 75 342 7 129 42 263 76 344 8 144 43 266 77 347 9 149 44 268 78 349 10 1 56 45 271 79 352 1 1 163 46 273 80 354 12 170 47 276 81 357 13 177 48 278 82 359 14 180 49 281 83 362 15 187 50 283 84 364 16 190 51 286 85 367 17 193 52 288 86 369 18 196 53 291 87 372 19 196 54 293 88 374 20 200 55 294 89 381 21 203 56 294 90 384 22 206 57 296 91 391 23 206 58 298 92 398 24 210 59 301 93 403 25 215 60 303 94 406 26 226 61 306 95 406 27 2'’9 62 308 96 410 28 231 63 311 97 413 29 234 64 312 98 415 30 236 65 312 99 418 31 239 66 314 100 420 32 241 67 317 101 423 33 244 68 328 102 430 34 246 103 505 XI THE SEA FISHES OF SOUTHERN AFRICA BOOK FUND HONORARY TRUSTEES : JOHN VOELCKER, Chairman G. CARLETON JONES, J. H. CROSBY, BRANSBY A. KEY, Hon. Secretary. HUGH LE MAY. In August, 1945, whilst discussing angling with Mr. Hugh Le May in LourenQo Marques, he mentioned the need for a comprehensive illustrated work on the sea-fishes of Southern Africa, and offered substantial financial support for such a book if it were a practical proposition. I was informed by Dr. R. A. Dyer of Pretoria that Professor J. L. B. Smith, of Rhodes University College, Grahamstown, was contemplating preparing a book on South African Fishes. Knowing that the late Dr. Austin Roberts’ successful book on South African Birds had been made possible by the efforts of a Board of Trustees, I consulted Mr. John Voelcker, who had played a prominent part in that venture. We agreed to set about the matter of a book on fishes on a similar basis, and to constitute a Board of Trustees. This was rapidly achieved and after some preliminary negotiations with Professor Smith he agreed to undertake the preparation of the book. The Trustees then launched an appeal to selected persons, whose response was generous, and who are acknowledged in the List of Subscribers. Without this financial support a work of this quality and size could have been made available to the public only at a much greater cost, beyond the reach of the ordinary purse. We wish especially to mention the very generous subscription from Mr. Hugh Le May which went far to make it possible to produce the book on its present scale. South Africa has a surprising variety of marine fishes, the number so far recorded totalling 1,275, almost all of which are illustrated in this book, close on 700 in 104 coloured plates, the remainder as text figures. We are fortunate that Professor Smith was available to compose this work, and that the artists were enabled to depict the brilliant colours of the living fishes. The book includes the work of a number of artists, but the majority of the illustrations are the work of Mrs. M. M. Smith, wife of Professor Smith. To all of these the Trustees record their gratitude. The Trustees are of opinion that this work will be not only of practical help to Anglers, but also of educative value, and that it will arouse an even greater interest in fishes. By its aid anybody of reasonable intelligence should be able to identify any species of fish already known to be in our waters. Anybody finding a strange fish should be able to determine at once whether it is worth preserving, and this should result in the saving of most valuable scientific material. It is intended to perpetuate this fund with the object of sponsoring further Ichthyological works, and it is hoped to be able to assist the production of a companion volume on the Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa. It is not possible to mention here all those who have helped, but we owe a great deal to Mr. John Voelcker, our Chairman, whose experience gained in the publication of “ The Birds of South Africa ” was of considerable help. Much assistance was given to the Trustees by Mr. W. Wolpert of the Central News Agency, whose advice on matters alTecting the publication of the book was invaluable. Following the initial steps taken by the Trustees, the production of this book has been achieved by the co-operation of all concerned, by the generous support of the Subscribers and by the author and the artists in their untiring and unstinted work. Hon. Secretary and Trustee. I. . ^ : ' 4??,. • '' x;\ ', r-*^ . , .ya LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS Adams, T. African & European Investment Co., Ltd. African Explosives & Chemical Industries, Ltd. ■\iken, A. S. AIbu, Sir George. Anderson, P. M. Anderson, W. M. Anglo American Group of Companies Anglo Transvaal Consolidated Investment Co., Ltd. Bamford, F. H. Y. Barregar, .1. B. Bateman, E. L. Batten, H. V. Beatty, G. H. Bennett, O. B. Bernstein, B. L. Borckenhagen, C. L. F. Bowker, T. B. Bowman, L.. M. Braun. Hr. L. 1. Burrell, C. J. Butcher. H. .1. Campbell. Dr. (j. Campbell, Dr. G. D. Campbell, Miss Killie Campbell, W. A. Central Mining & Investment Corp. (Rand Mines) Charlton, Dr. R. .1. W. Clapham, T. B. Consolidated Rand Investment & Trust Co., Ltd. Corder. Clive Courtenay-Laiimer, Miss M. Cox, 1. li). Crosby, ,1. H. Cullinan. R. V. Currie, Richard R. Davis, (iordon Davis. P. Day. Prof. J. H. De Ciruyter, Cap!. J. De Kok, T. G. M. Dodds. Dr. W. A. Duthie, Miss A. V. Dver, Dr. R. A. Falck, R. R. Farrar, E. FI. FitzSimons, Dr. V. Fleischer, S. R. Galpin, H. Gilfillan, N. H. Glen, N. Goldschmidt, Dr. I,. B. Green, FI. M. Flammond. P. S. Harraway, H. G. Harvey, S. F. Flay, Firrol Hellings, R. J. H, Hewitt, Dr. J. Hulett, Dr. M. Irvin & Johnson (S.A.j, Ltd. Jack. H. Chisholm Joel, G. J. Johannesburg Consolidated Investment Co., Ltd Jones, G. Carleton Jones, J. Price. Key, B. A. Key, E. A. Key, .Mrs. K. .M. Koch, FI. J. Kohiberg, Dr. H. Le May, B. C. le May, Mrs. F. M. Le May, G. H. Le May, Hugh Le May, Miss Joan Le May, V. Lewis, P. R. B. Long. F. R. Mackenzie, 1. Mackenzie. J. D. Malan, Prof. D. E. McDougall, N. H. McIntyre, Donald McKowen, F. N. McLean, C. S. Metelerkamp, J. Rex Edmund, Maldwyn LIST Of subscribers Mills, H. A. Mitchell-Hedges, F. A. Molteno, Dr. C. J. National Museum of S. Rhodesia Library New Consolidated Goldfields, Ltd. Newdigate, F. W. Newdigate, Mrs. J. C. Niven, J. Mackie Niven, Mrs. J. Mackie Norman, P. J. Noyce, G. E. Omer-Cooper, Prof. ,1. Oppenheimer, Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, H. Orpen, J. H. Orr, J- B. Osier, H. 1. Otley, T. G. Payne, H. C. Pearse, W. E. Planteina, O. Poliak, E. R. Power, J. H. Price, Dr. Bernard Pringle, J. A. Ramsden, C. D. Ribeiro, Capt. V. Robb, F. C. Roberts, Adv. A. A. Russell, J. Saint, Professor Charles F. M. Saunders, Douglas Scott, Jack Scully, G. C". Sharland, VV ■ A. Simpson, Montague Smith, G. Cj- Smith, G. Hildick Smith, Mrs. M. M. Smithers, H- H- Southwell, Bailey Spence, C. F • Spence, R. F • Sprackett, E. U- Star. The.sen, H. H- Thomas, Dr. A. D. Transvaal & Delagoa Bay Investment Co. Transvaal Mining & Finance Co-, Ltd. Transvaal M use urn United Tobacco Companies (South), l.td. Voelcker, J. F. Wartenweiler, F. Watson, D. A. B. Webber, W. Wheeldon, A. S. Whiteley, W. Wilks, J. M. Williams, A. F. (Jnr.) W'illiams, A. F'. Williams, .A. Gardner Williams, J. A. Willis, P, W. Wipplinger, L. Wood, A. T. '"'' t , ^ i" '*’ , - ' i ' , , ' ' ^ .f at" . . r* \ ' 'X ' SOUTf/ X HOW THIS BOOK WAS MADE ORIGIN OF THE BOOK In common with many other people the author of this book has from early boyhood found fishes of absorbing interest, and to this day some of his happiest hours are spent watching and studying living fishes wherever they may be seen. Fishes are most graceful creatures, and their beauty of colour and form is enhanced by more than a spice of mystery, for with most we can at best hope for only occasional glimpses of their lives. The popularity of both public and home aquaria shows that the fascination of fishes is felt by many, and in South Africa at least there are probably more people interested in them than in any other creatures. It is in many ways a pity that by some odd chance the systematic study of fishes has often been left to scientists not able to comprehend the wonder of the living creatures, and concerned only with the purely taxonomic aspects of form and structure of dead material in bottles. This has resulted in an unfortunate gap between angler and systematist, probably wider than in any other popular branch of natural history. As an angler, the author of this book was from youth eager to learn about the fishes he encountered, but found the existing literature baffling and unsatisfactory. Faced with no alternative but to master the subject, he set out to do that, and one unexpected result was that in 1939 he was privileged to announce the discovery of a living Coelacanth fish, one of the most amazing events in biology, indeed so astounding that to this day the author has continually to reconvince himself that it actually- happened. South Africa is probably the only civili.sed country with many different shore fishes which offers such variety and richness of angling facilities, and with such a high proportion of its people deeply interested in the sea, in fishes and in angling. All along our coasts, often in remote areas, anglers and other naturalists continually encounter oceanic and shore phenomena which excite their interest and curiosity, and for which they are rarely able to obtain satisfactory explanation. Most of them desire keenly to learn something about the fishes they encounter, especially the rarer species, but while there are a number of excellent books on angling, all are of necessity of restricted ichthyological scope. In hardly any country are there books with ample and accurate illustration by whose aid the naturalist may rapidly and with certainty identify any fish and learn something about its .scientific background. It has long been the author’s ambition to prepare a work of that kind for South Africa, but with little hope of fulfilment as it is extremely costly to produce. Fortunately, however, this has been made possible mainly in consequence of the deep interest in fishes of Mr. Hugh Le May, of Lourenco Marques. Early in 1945, Mr. B. A. Key visited Mr. Le .May at his home in Lourenco Marques, well known to anglers from all over the world. While discussing natural history, in which both men are deeply interested, Mr. Le May deplored the lack of a practical book on his chief love, fishes, and said he would sponsor one if an author could be found. Mr. Key later went to Pretoria to consult with Dr. Dyer, chief of the Division of Botany. During their conversation Mr. Le May's desire for a book on fishes was mentioned again, and as a result contact was made with the author, the Trustees were constituted, and work on the book commenced in November 1945. SCOPE OF HIE BOOK Many people look with some awe on the scientist who at times tends to enshroud his work and methods with a certain amount of mystery and secrecy, although, when he sets out to identify a specimen unknown to him. he usually uses quite ordinary methods. Much like a detective, he seeks some initial clue and follows it up, but his experience and knowledge naturally make it easier for him than it is for those who have not similarly- specialised. Where this book dilfers from most others is that it gives the ordinary man the power to track by scientific methods in a few moments any fish already known from our waters, and to recognise as such any not yet recorded. While this is perhaps its most important feature, at the same time it may be stressed that this work is essentially a full scientific revisional monograph summarising the results of research on our fishes to date. The dc.scriptive scientific detail may to other workers at first sight appear rather meagre, but a combination of description, keys and accurate illustration covers every important scientific character in every species it has been possible to examine. Few people realise the appalling amount of work in a book of this type. Based initially on half a lifetime of intensive research, it has involved the examination of many tens of thousands of specimens, some of which have taken long and intensive effort to obtain. Those working on creatures of the land can usually make certain of getting by some means the specimens they need. It is quite another matter with most fishes, as one may search for a particular fish for many years in vain. Obtaining the specimens needed to complete this book has involved 1 1 2 HOW THIS BOOK WAS MADE continual and extensive travelling, discomfort and even danger, both on sea and ashore, where in the quest for specimens the author and his wife have covered on foot a great part of the coast stretching from Saldanha Bay to Delagoa Bay. In addition, all along our coast numbers of interested persons have been continually on the watch for fishes required. In preparation for this volume, the compilation of the various features provided to aid those who use it has involved the writing of millions of numbers, and the mere checking and cross-checking has been a gigantic labour, much borne by friends, but the critical major portion inevitably the burden of the author. While every effort has been made to render this work as accurate and as practical as possible, the author would appreciate criticisms, comments and suggestions from interested persons. ILLUSTRATIONS In biological description a detailed and accurate illustration is worth more than a volume of pure descriptive text. From the start of this work the greatest attention has been given to the production of illustrations of the highest order of accuracy attainable. This has been the major problem throughout, requiring skill and patience, and no small degree of endurance and ingenuity in securing material. In view of the number of illustrations required, outside aid had to be sought. Many young artists favoured the idea of drawing fishes, but few succeeded, for most wished to portray not what lay before them, but what they thought they saw, some were impressed by the necessity of being “ creative ” rather than exact, and few were prepared to face the drudgery exacted by scientific accuracy. Continual and unremitting supervision was necessary for all stages of all illus¬ trations. For each figure, from a dead fish an artist drew the outline in pencil, which was then checked for dimensional and scientific accuracy by the author's wife, work for 1-2 hours. The artist would then remedy the defects and Mrs. Smith would again check, and only when she was satisfied was the figure submitted for the author's approval. After the outline was completed the scales were drawn in with the same precautions, but despite all this, odd errors crept in, necessitating a final check in each case. The figure was then coloured from copious colour notes and sketches made by the author over many years, or had to wait until a live specimen was obtained, sometimes a most troublesome and difficult matter. There is 8-40 hours of drawing work alone in each figure. While fishes are the most gorgeously coloured of all living creatures, their colours fade rapidly after death, so that most people know only the grey, faded corpses of the fishmonger's slab. On seeing the coloured illustrations many persons have asked: " But are fishes really like that? ” and we reply “ No, they are not like that. No brush can ever portray their true brilliance, which is light, while artists can show only colour.” Many illustrations are tinted photographs. Colour photography is at present not easy to use, for unless lighting and exposure be perfect, shades are not exact. When the colours of a fish are bright it is alive and jumps frequently, while the fins move up and down, and when it is quiet enough for a safe photograph, the colours have often faded. The first essential of any photograph is a practically perfect specimen, and for that a fish must die in such fashion that it does not damage itself— no easy matter. The fins are then set out fully distended by means of pins and cotton on a board, and the fish left for 2-8 hours in the shade, when after being carefully cleaned it may be photographed, and the print later coloured. It has not been possible to obtain specimens of certain rare fishes, especially deep-sea fishes. In some cases the only existing specimens are in overseas museums, while some early type specimens of our own deep sea forms, not since seen again, have unfortunately not been preserved with proper care and are apparently lost or mislaid. It has therefore not been possible to show only original figures in this book, and of the total of 1,245 illustrations, 145 have by permission been copied from other works. These are mostly of rare deep sea forms seldom seen, and being all acknowledged may easily be recognised as copied. Illustrations were prepared by the following artists: 610 by Margaret M. Smith (M.M.S.); 98 by Patricia Parkin (P.); 90 by Denys M. Davis (D.M.D.); 26 by Hester W. Locke (HWL), also the map, p. I; 13 by Valerie de la Harpe (VdlH); 55 illustrations by the late H. W. Bell Marley (HWBM) were copied for use here; 82 photographs, many tinted, were prepared by F. W. Newdigate (FWN). Most of the remainder were the work of the author. The Frontispiece was prepared by Mrs. T. Campbell. The Dust-cover was designed by Mr. W. P. Causton of the staff of Cape Times Ltd. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS BY THE AUTHOR 1. My wife has been my full-time partner from the beginning and has been artist, adviser, bulfer, critic and secretary, and is one of the most skilful collectors of fishes with many devices of her own. She has shared with me many hardships and sustained me when my courage has failed. But for her spirit, energy and unflagging enthusiasm this work could hardly have reached completion in any reasonable time. 2. It is the generosity of the Trustees and Subscribers which has made possible the present scale of the work. As has earlier been stated, Mr. Hugh Le May of Lourenco Marques, to whom this work is dedicated, has been an enthusiast from the start, and has indeed donated the major portion of the money for production. Also, it is my privilege to record how much the work owes to the unfailing interest, enthusiasm, efficiency and determination of Mr. B. A. Key, Honorary Secretary to the Trustees, who throughout many troubles has been a tower of strength. 3. The South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has given generous support to this work. Not only has a Research Fellowship in Ichthyology enabled me to devote full time to research work, but the Council has allocated special funds for travelling and collecting, all of which represent a considerable contribution to the quality and scope of the work. 4. To the artists science is indebted for their earnest pride in the face of ichthyological dictates. 5. This book is closely linked with Portuguese Fast Africa and indeed owes much to the authorities and people of that Colony. By order of the Governor- General direct valuable assistance in collecting was furnished by the resources under the control of his senior officials, but everywhere co-operation and personal interest exceeded any official orders. In all parts of that colony persons of all classes gave willing and active assistance to an astonishing degree which it is a pleasure to acknowledge and record. Special mention may be made of Coronel A. .Abranches Pinto, Military Commander, and his staff ; of Lieutenant Vergilio Ferreira Ribeiro, Chefe do Gabinetc in 1946 ; of Commander Joaquim Marques Fsparteiro, Chefe de Maritimo ; and of Commander Tomaz Victor Duque, Port Captain of Lourenco Marques. Mr. C. F. Spence and Mr. Basil Le May rendered constant, extensive and varied aid without which much of our endeavours would have been wasted. Senhor .A Peao Lopes of the Museum .Alvaro da Castro was an enthusiastic collaborator, who gave freely of material and in¬ formation, and who furnished several accurate and artistic colour sketches covering fishes rarely seen and seldom available. Many others too numerous to mention here assisted in various ways. It is with pleasure that 1 stress that this volume serves the Colony of Mozambique as much as the Union of South Africa. endeavours and for often having swallowed professional 5. Este livro esta intimamente ligado a Africa Oriental Portuguesa e deve muito, na verdade, as autoridades e a populayao daquela Colonia. Por ordem do Governo Geral, valiosa assistencia directa nos foi dada na recolha de elementos, tendo sido postos a nossa disposiyao, pelas entidades oficiais, os recursos dos diferentes Serviyos, mas em toda a parte a cooperayao e o interesse pessoal excederam quaisquer ordens oficiais. Em todos os pontos da Colonia, pessoas de todas as classes nos prestaram assistencia voluntaria e activa em admiravel grau, 0 que e urn prazer reconhecer e registar. Deve ser feita menyao especial ao Coronel Abranches Pinto, Comandante Militar e ao seu Estado Maior; ao Tenente Vergilio Ferreira Ribeiro, Chefe do Gabinete, 1946: ao Comandante Joaquim Marques Esparteiro, Chefe do Departamento .Maritimo: e ao Coman¬ dante Tomaz Victor Duque, Capitao do Porto de Lourengo Marques. 0 Senhor C. F. Spence e o Senhor Basil Le May proporcionaram-nos ajuda sem a qual muitos dos nossos esforcos teriam sido baldados. 0 Senhor A Peao Lopes, do Museu .Alvaro da Castro, foi urn entusiastico colaborador, que generosamente nos proporcionou material e informayoes, e que nos facultou varios desenhos coloridos rigorosos e artisticos mostrando peixes raros e muito dificeis de obter. Muitos outros, assaz numerosos para serem aqui mencionados, nos prestaram a sua assistencia por diferentes formas. E com prazer que eu asseguro que este volume e tao litil para a Colonia de Mozambique como para a Uniao de Africa do Sul. 3 4 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS BY THE AUTHOR 6. The commercial fishing firms in South Africa have made valuable contributions to this work. Many economically important fishes, and some of great rarity, could not have been illustrated so well and in colour but for their willing aid. Science is indebted in particular to Mr. .1. H. Jackson, manager of Me.ssrs. Irvin and Johnson at Port Elizabeth, and to Captain M. G. Ic Gras of their fishing licet. Also Mr. E. G. C. Wadner, of Mossel Bay, and Mr. E. C. Paviour, of East Eondon, have sent many valuable fishes. 7. The Museums of South Africa have assisted in many ways. Mr. J. A. Pringle, Director of the Port Elizabeth Museum, has from the start spared no elTort to assist, and has repeatedly secured rare and valuable fishes. Miss Courtney-Latimer, Curator of the East London Museum, and Mr. Chubb, Director of the Durban Museum, have sent useful material including photographs. The Trustees of the Natal Museum via the late Director, Dr. R. F. Lawrance, made a valuable contribution by the loan of the whole of the Bell Marley collection of many hundreds of paintings of fishes, some of which are reproduced here, while others have been useful as colour guides for more detailed drawings. The authorities of the South African Museum assisted by the loan of literature and of some fishes not elsewhere available. 8. The great brunt of the labour of proof-reading, oft-repeated in remodelled typescript, has been borne by my old friends Miss A. Tidmarsh and Miss M. Slcading of Grahamstown, whose unilagging aid, interest and guidance have been invaluable. On their advice many ambiguous or unduly technical passages were clarified, and it is my conv iction that in the narrative portions they have tracked every minor grammatical transgression. Further, from the start of the work, they undertook the great labour of the individual mounting of each illustration. Their constant interest and willing assistance for these .7 years represent an invaluable contribution. 9. Mr. C. H. Tanner, technician of the Albany Museum, has done mueh laborious but skilful photographic work, and his ingenuity and cheerful resourcefulness have repeatedly eased our problems. 10. Fishes required for illustrations, in many eases well set, sometimes also detailed colour sketches and notes, have been received from the following: Mr. B. M. Impey, Mr. George Campbell, Dr. Maurice Hulett and Mr. H. A. Robson of Durban. Mr. J. H. Jackson of Umzumbi. Mr. A. T. Wood of Xora Mouth. Professor F. W. Armstrong and Mr. D. Wedderburn of Port Alfred. Mrs. G. M. Ranger. Mr. Rex Metelerkamp, Mr. F. W. Newdigate, and Mr. Harry Bruce of Knysna. Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Koch of Somerset West. Mr. C. J. Burrell of Lamberts Bay. Professor C. J. van der Horst of the University of the Witwatersrand. I’rofessor J. 11. Day of Cape Town. Dr. V. Eitzsimons, Director of the Transvaal Museum. Two photographs were supplied by Mr. G. G. Smith of East London, one by the Durban Museum, one by the Port Elizabeth Museum, and one by Mr. Romcr Robinson. Durban. 11. Valuable comments and criticism of the preliminary chapters were furnished by Mr. and Mrs. B. A. Key of Johannesburg, by Dr. S. fl. Haughton of Pretoria, by Professor S. F. Bush of Maritzburg, and by Dr, E. H. Eangsehmidt of Knysna. 12. Whenever the question of printing arose, the author in common with most others concerned with the book felt that justice could be done to a work of this quality only by an overseas firm of experience. Eventually persuaded to give the Cape Times at least an opportunity, what they submitted revealed quality, ingenuity and enthusiasm second to none. It is a pleasure to record appreciation of the sustained enthusiasm of all members of the staff whose efforts have contributed to the high standard of excellence achieved in this volume. REPRODUCTIONS Gratitude is expressed to the following for permission to copy certain figures of inaccessible fishes: Dr. Henry W. Fowler, U.S.,A. Dr. C. von Bonde. Director of Fisheries in S.A. The Director of the British Museum, London. The Annals and Magazine of Natural History, London. Dr. G. P. Whitley of the Australian Museum. Also the Royal Society of S.A. has permitted the use of some of my own draw'ings that earlier appeared in their Transactions. Some figures have been taken also from the following works: Andrew Smith's Illustrations of S.A. Fishes, 1849. Days' Fishes of India, 1878. Oceanic Ichthyology by Goode & Bean, 1895. The Challenger Report, 1873. Fishes of Hawaii by Jordan & Evermann, 1903. ZONES OF THE SEA AND THEIR FISHES Although fishes are mostly mobile and live in water, it is significant that they are most abundant near the land, for compared with waters marginal to the shores, the vast ocean areas above deep water, especially in the tropics, hold comparatively little life. Primarily this is because a great part of the food of fishes is composed of or based on immobile forms of life which do not or cannot flourish in any but comparatively shallow water, for they depend ultimately upon light which does not penetrate much below 30 fathoms. While different zones of the ocean can be recognised, and the fishes which inhabit them differ broadly also, it can be readily appreciated that no hard and fast lines of division can be drawn, and that there will always be some degree of overlapping and intergradation. Nevertheless, four main zones of the oceans may for convenience be defined. Shallow water marginal to land where the main influence of the waves and tides is felt is termed the LITTORAL ZONE, and this holds wider variety of form, feature and life than any other. By far the greatest number of species of fishes arc LITTORAL, and it is here that most endemic species in any region are concen¬ trated. F-cw littoral fishes move far from shelter, for hardly any arc swift, but many like our Galjoen (No. 644) are powerful and able to cope with even boiling surf Most live in a restricted area and depend on the life of rocks, reefs, sand, mud and weeds for food, and they arc almost unbelievably expert at hiding and concealment, normally dependant upon shelter of some kind for survival. It is this which leads to the almost bewildering variety of form, colour and pattern in littoral fishes. Away from land the vast surface areas of the seas constitute the OCEANIC or PELAGIC ZONE, the region of great surface currents, and where mainly in warmer waters there are characteristic fishes. Some like the Flying-fishes (No. 210 on) and our Sardine (No. 1 15) arc small and timid, spend their lives mainly fleeing from pursuit, and feed mostly on minute plants and organisms which float in the surface. Preying on these fishes, besides sea-birds, arc numerous swift larger Pelagic fishes like the Tunnies, Albacores and Dolphins, which usually roam widely, often on regular courses. As conditions in this zone are almost uniform, most of the fishes conform to a standard shape and pattern, usually more or less torpedo-shaped, dark blue above and silvery below. Most of these fishes descend to at least 100 fathoms in pursuit of the small shiny fishes that abound in that part of the ocean. Below this to probably 500 fathoms there are large numbers of small shiny fishes, many with big eyes, few of which are predatory, but feed mainly on minute organisms that can flourish only at or near the surface. Predatory pelagic fishes and marine birds hunt mainly by sight, and these small shiners survive by keeping out of sight, and in consequence their lives are dominated by light. By day they sink deeply to utter darkness, but as the light fades they rise and on really dark nights come right to the surface. They must spend much of their time rising and sinking in the waters. Rather ill-defined is the B.ATH YPELAGIC ZONE. It is that area of deep water below the region of the shiny fishes, but not deep enough to be ranked as ABYSSAL. Many peculiar fishes are classed as BATH YPEL.AGIC, some of them rising to the surface on dark nights. Far below, in striking contrast with the variable conditions of the restless surface, are the unchanging cold, silence, stillness, great pressure and absolute darkness of the depths, where are found ABYSSAL or B.ATHYBl.AL fishes. While elsewhere temperatures and other conditions may vary widely, the .ABYSSAL zone is everywhere much the same, so that even small and feeble abyssal fishes have a great range, and bathybial faunas do not differ very widely in different oceans. It does not seem likely that any fishes originated in the depths, rather there is every reason to believe that these fishes have developed from littoral forms which gradually colonised deeper and deeper water. The absence of light has wrought some remarkable changes. Most of the fishes are black, many have merely rudimentary eyes, and probably from the absence of currents and waves, scales are usually absent and bones feeble. Many have feelers and numbers bear phosphorescent organs, while food is sought by stealth rather than speed, and huge jaws with great barbed fangs are quite common. (See Text-fig. 142.) Meals are not easily come by, and anything once seized never gets free, for many have distensible jaws and stomachs to accommodate fishes as big as themselves. (See Text-fig. 377.) The desperate struggles that must always go on grimly in the cold silent pitch darkness of the depths are rather horrible to visualise. The temperature of the LITTORAL and PELAGIC zones varies with the location, being higher in the tropics and in warm currents, but lower towards the poles and in polar currents, some of the latter travelling far 6 ZONES OF THE SEA AND THEIR FISHES towards the equator. In the southern hemisphere warm currents mostly travel southwards and normally wash the eastern shores of the continents, the cold currents travelling northwards along the west of the main land masses. Where ocean currents meet or run closely counter to one another there are usually found great concentrations of marine life, including pelagic fishes, and such areas are often turning points in oceanic lanes of migration. No matter what the surface temperature may be, at the limit of the penetration of light, 30-50 fathoms down, the temperature is much the same over a vast area of the seas, and at 100 fathoms it is about I4°C. (58°F,). Since water is most dense just above the freezing point, that from colder regions such as the poles must sink and penetrate everywhere along the bottom. At great depths therefore, even of tropical seas, the water is almost ice-cold, but under present climatic conditions it can never freeze. THE SOUTH AFRICAN REGION For those whose ruling passion is life in the sea, South Africa is a region not easily equalled in all the world. Geographical and oceanic characters combine to produce conditions which are almost unique, while within easy reach of large centres of population with all the comforts of civilisation there are in South Africa stretches of wild unspoiled coast of great beauty and grandeur. There are few parts of the earth where at the coast comfortable habitation so often goes hand in hand with great natural beauty. There is scarcely any other region with so wide a range of variation in both climatic and oceanic conditions in a relatively restricted compass, nor any which can show much greater variation in the creatures which inhabit the waters. Few people have a full realisation of how profoundly oceanic conditions influence life on land, for ocean currents may affect not only the lives of communities, but determine the climate of continents and the welfare of nations. Where the sea is warm, evaporation is high, and moisture-laden winds sweeping inshore bring abundant rains which generally produce luxuriant vegetation, so that in those areas man finds pleasant and profitable habitation, as on our ea.st and south-east coast. Where the sea is cold, evaporation is low, rainfall poor, and the adjacent land usually dry and harsh, often desert, where men and other creatures find life a struggle, as in our region of the west coast. South of the Equator there is relatively little land and so ocean currents find free course. Greatest of all is the Antarctic drift whose cold waters circulate in the south, flowing constantly eastwards. The northern flank of this current is diverted as a great eddy by the Cape, to flow northwards along our western shore as the Benguella current until it turns westwards in equatorial waters. (See Map, p. I.) Further, along our western shore cold bottom waters constantly well up so that the sun has little effect upon them, and even close inshore it is always cold. The mean temperature of the sea at Walfisch Bay, 23 S., is considerably lower than that at Port Elizabeth, some 700 miles further from the Equator. On this west coast the rainfall is poor, and the coastal regions dry, harsh and inhospitable, while there is restricted luxuriance of the larger forms of vegetable life both on land and in the sea. On the other hand, in the Indian Ocean a great river of warm water sweeps south-west from the Equator until it is divided by Madagascar. The eastern branch, the Madagascar current, runs south-west, then east until it is absorbed far from our shores by the Antarctic drift. The flow through the Madagascar channel sweeps southwards as the Mozambique current with considerable force, and washes our shores as far west as Agulhas, where termed the Agulhas current, it turns southwards and is absorbed. (See .Map, p. 1.) This warm equatorial current naturally cools as it progresses south-westwards, but it gives to Natal and to our east and south coasts a mild climate with good rainfall and relatively luxuriant coastal vegetation. The mean temperature of the sea at [Durban, 30 S., is about the same as that at Mossamedes on the west coast, 15"S., almost a thousand miles nearer the Equator. The effects of such conditions on life in our seas are profound. In warm coastal waters plant and other lowly forms of life are vigorous, and this abundance leads to variation of environment and so to diversity of form. Such conditions favour specialisation and result in the production of numbers of different species though not necessarily of great numbers of any one. In warm waters shore fishes are usually abundant in great variety. In cold water the environment is more uniform and species are fewer, although some may occur in great numbers. In desert and cold areas shore fishes are normally not abundant, so that the intertidal area of our west coast is notably poorer in fishes than that of our south and south-east coast. It must not, however, be concluded that the seas of the east coast surpass those of the west in sheer abundance of fishes, for there are other factors to be considered. The clear blue of tropical seas is due to the absence of minute forms of life which in colder waters are sometimes so abundant as to make the sea dull, grey and almost opaque. The smaller forms of life cannot flourish in the free ocean unless the water contains certain mineral salts, notably nitrate and phosphate, while certain humbler forms are killed by too much light, and many succumb to the attacks of bacteria, which are more vigorous in warm seas. By some means as yet unknown polar seas are nitrified, probably from the air. On the other hand, tropical waters contain relatively little nitrate. In general the nitrogen content of the sea falls steadily towards the Equator, so that polar currents are richer in nutriments than those 7 8 THE SOUTH AFRICAN REGION from the Equator. It is significant to note that the sea off Port Nolloth contains about 20 times as much nitrogen as is found off Durban. Where this inorganic food is available minute forms of life can nourish and form the start of a food chain which leads to concentrations of larger fishes like the economically important Stock-fish (No. 257), characteristic of the deeper water away from the shore of our west and south coasts, but unknown north of Durban. These are slow moving fishes dependent upon abundance of lowly forms of life for food. In general, colder seas are not normally rich in number and variety of littoral fishes, but are likely to be able to carry a great weight of forms in deeper waters, some of economic importance. Tropical seas on the other hand have much of their fish life concentrated in the littoral zone. The nature of the coast and the slope of the sea bed also play an important part in determining the density of the fish population. On our west coast and on part of our south coast the ocean bed slopes gradually, so that fairly shallow water extends far out to sea, there being at no great depth the vast submarine plain known as the Agulhas Bank. (.Sec Map, p. I.) The west and south-west areas are therefore favourably situated for commercial fishing, as they have an abundance of life due to the continual supply of food from the Antarctic, while the relatively shallow submarine plains, e.g. the Agulhas Bank, carry enormous numbers of bottom dwelling forms like Soles (No. .^19 on), the Panga (No. 718), the Kabeljou (No. 552), etc. Our east coast has no great complexity of coast-line to favour littoral fishes, and mostly a much steeper slope of the sca-bed, with few' known relatively gently sloped submarine plains or banks at reason¬ able depth. Much of that part is poorly known and a full oceanographical survey of the region of the Mozambique Channel is required, to discover and chart banks where commercial fishing can be carried out. Until then fishing off the east coast will remain troublesome. Cold blooded creatures arc very much at the mercy of temperature, and the effects are most severely felt by aquatic forms because of the high specific heat of water. The average fish lives comfortably within a range of only about I2°F., while any greater change results in discomfort, paralysis and, if maintained, even in death, so that a fish cannof pass through a body of water much colder or warmer than that to which it is accustomed! The profound effects of a sudden change of temperature are often seen on our south coast, where, with an average summer temperature of the sea along the shores of about 18 C. (or 65 F.), there may suddenly appear a large body of water of temperature 10°C. (or 50 F.), probably an upwelling from the cold depths. This may occur anywhere from Mossel Bay to just south of Port St. Johns and is fairly common at Knysna. Before the cold water is noticed the onset may be recognised by the sudden appearance in the warmer waters close inshore and in estuaries of semi-tropical fishes and of some normally found only in deeper water, while later, paralysed or dead fishes drift in with the tide. When the onset lasts for more than 12 hours the shore may be littered with dead and dying fishes, sometimes countless millions, and rock pools are often an almost solid mass of fishes of many species either dead, or if alive, in only partial control of their movements. Those able to move endeavour to throw themselves out of the water, as if it were foul, for one of the first effects of chilling is apparently paralysis of respiration. The onset of cold water invariably occurs while the barometer is falling with easterly winds, and it remains until the barometer takes an upward trend and the winds turn westerly, when the numbed fishes disappear with the cold water. They rapidly return to normal, apparently unharmed, when the warmer water appears. It is likely that this cold water quite often appears off our coast, but only rarely washes the actual shore. When a partial onset occurs, reaching fairly close to land, both littoral and pelagic fishes .seek refuge and become concentrated in the warmer water of the shallows and of tidal estuaries. At those times angling improves so much that local enthusiasts send to the press glowing reports of the wonderful sport to be had in their areas, but when the abnormal conditions go, the excess fishes fade away also. WJien the cold w-ater washes the shore and enters e.stuaries, normal fishes accustomed to warmer water will not take any bait when in the cold water, and anglini! ceases there until it goes. The blanket of cold water along our west coast is so much a barrier to most warm water forms, that to a large extent it prevents the intermingling of the fishes of the tropical Atlantic with those of the Indianic shores of South .Africa. Further, the Benguella current flowing northwards tends to limit the penetration of Cape waters by fishes from even the colder parts of the Atlantic (see Map, p. I), and in consequence the Cape represents a well-defined line of division between the .Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific fishes. There are a few estab¬ lished cases in which a species is found in the tropical area on both the west coast and the east coast of Africa. It IS probable that these are relics of earlier intermingling, for not very long ago in geological time, conditions were different, and there was almost certainly a warm water connection between the two oceans round the southern tip of Africa, even though present conditions virtually exclude tropical Atlantic forms from South African seas. Also, even if there was at one time a northern connection between the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, Indianic fishes that migrated westwards would still have been barred from moving southwards along the South African coast by the currents that apparently always flowed northwards. Some 20 species, including the common Kabeljou THE SOUTH AFRICAN REGION 9 (No. 552), the Blacktail (No. 713) and the Bamboofish (No. 731), are apparently able to adapt themselves over a wide temperature range, for they occur all round the coast, but it is of interest to note that all succumb to rapid change. In the Indianic region of our area the powerful Mozambique current aids the migration of tropical and temperate Indianic and Indo-Pacific fishes towards and along our shores. Here is a great river of warm water carrying many different forms of life moving southwards, the limit attained by each species being defined by the increasing coldness of the water with southing towards the cold waters of the Antarctic Drift, which are never far from our southern shore. We can imagine even the feebler and smaller tropical forms creeping from stone to stone and from crevice to crevice along our coast, always bathed by this warm equatorial current, so that even they have colonised our shores far from their original haunts. Some quite small feeble forms have obviously come from as far as Japan. The area about the mouth of the Great Kei River may broadly be taken as marking the division between the true tropical and our more characteristic Cape fishes. North of the Kei fishes are predominantly tropical Indo-Pacific in character, while many of the typical Cape fishes reach the Kei area, but rarely ever penetrate the warmer waters further north, except occasionally in winter. On the other hand, typical Natal fishes rarely extend south of the Kei except for occasional migrants in summer. Conditions being what they are, we must expect to find the Indo-Pacific element almost entirely dominant in the fish life of the shores of the eastern South African region. There is every reason to believe that profound geological and climatic variations have made South Africa in recent geological time a somewhat unfavourable region for coastal fishes. The nature of our fauna indicates that this has been a region of secondary colonisation rather than of primary development. On the other hand, there is evidence that the central Indo-Pacific has been the main nursery for the development of a great number of the families of modern bony fishes, and it is probable that in remote times, as well as more recently, most of our fishes or their near ancestors have come from that region. Whatever forms had remote origin in the Atlantic do not seem to have played much part in colonising our shores. A few of our species, notably the economically important Stock-fish (No. 257), are closely related to, in fact almost identical with, northern Atlantic forms, and they may well have developed from ancestors who pushed their way southwards and colonised our waters. In some cases, however, it is at least possible that the Atlantic forms may have originated from early African types. In our whole region some 1,275 species of fishes have been found. They are made up approximately as follows: Indo-Pacific 675 Endemic 315 Cosmopolitan 88 Atlantic 62 Deep sea 100 Sub-Antarctic 35 Only a relatively small proportion of the gigantic Indo-Pacific fauna has as yet been found in our area, and it is noteworthy that a number of species which appear here from that region are not specially renowned for wandering. The great oceanic river washing our eastern shores will continue to bring those tropical Indo-Pacific fishes, and it is most unlikely that we know anywhere near all that are already here. During a recent collecting trip to Portuguese East Africa, in 5 weeks there were discovered 52 known Indo-Pacific fishes new to South Africa, and 12 new to science. It is mainly from the Indo-Pacific that we may expect regular additions to our fauna. Despite the variation in conditions along shore lines, those in deep water are more or less uniform throughout all oceans, so that we may expect to find the South African bathybial fauna much like that of any other region, and that is indeed broadly true. Species found first in our depths by Gilchrist have later been discovered elsewhere, sometimes half a world distant, while on the other hand supposed American and .Australian species have more recently been found in our waters. An interesting character of our fauna is the relatively high proportion of endemic fishes, i.e. those found only in South .Africa. In view of the features of our region it is not surprising that there is hardly a single truly endemic family among many endemic species and numerous endemic genera. While all of our 28 CLINIDAE, viviparous fishes of the rock pools, are endemic, they and a few other forms are obviously of sub-antarctic origin, w'ith related fishes mainly in South America and Australia. They are probably descendant from invasions from the south and west, aided by the Antarctic Drift, almost certainly in colder periods such as are outlined below. Otherwise most of our endemics appear to be of Indo-Pacific ancestry and, as is indicated below, likely to have developed from the survivors of earlier colonisations, isolated by rapid and profound climatic, geological and oceanic changes on parts of our shores. Another interesting feature of our fishes is that there are some striking cases of pairs of most closely related species, one tropical or sub-tropical in habit, rarely 10 THE SOUTH AFRICAN REGION extending south of Natal, but east and north even to the Pacifie, the other confined to our south, or south and south-east coasts, apparently not at home in any but rather cool waters. Here may be cited i.a. the cases of the Dageraad (No. 720) and the Slinger (No. 722), the Galjoen (No. 644) and the Banded Galjoen (No. 645), the Flatty (No. 709) of the south-east Cape and the Silver Bream (No. 710) of Natal. The endemic ol the south coast has in each case almost certainly evolved fairly recently from the parallel Indo-Pacitic form. These cases are almost exactly what we find at Panama, pairs of fishes very closely related, yet clearly dilTerent, one in the Atlantic, one in the Pacific, both having come from a form existing before the isthmus ol Panama emerged above water. It rose not very long ago in geological time and so the pairs of species developed, but still resemble each other closely. It is not easy to find a satisfactory explanation of this phenomenon in our seas, and that given below can be no more than a suggestion. To most people the earth, and South Africa in particular, appear solid and permanent, and that is natural, for, measured by the standard of time of our lives, geological and geographical changes, even profound changes, rarely oecur rapidly. But in recent geological time, during the last million years, the land, the climate and the seas of the earth have undergone some great fluctuations. Geologists are not in agreement on all points, but it is likely that a million years ago conditions were probably something like those of to-day. The world was, however, then rapidly moving tow ards w hat was apparently one of the greatest periods ol harsh coldness in all its long history. By 500,000 years ago great amounts of water had been removed from the seas and piled up as ice mainly in the North, so that most of Europe, Asia and North America lay deep under ice and snow. Over what is now New York the ice lay probably a mile deep. During the next 450,000 years the ice several times receded and increased, with one long recession reaching its maximum about 200,000 years ago, but again the climate grew cold and dry, the ice increased and the seas diminished. Gradually warmer conditions revived, until some 20,000 years ago the last ice age may be said to have come to a reluctant end, and as far as may be judged, for a time at least, the climate became steadily more mild. The effects of these changes on the shore lines of the world were profound. If all the present polar ice were to melt, the seas all over the world would rise about 150 ft. On the other hand, at the height of the greatest glaciation, the seas must have been very considerably lower than at present. There is definite evidence that at no very remote period the sea was well over 150 miles south ol what is now our southern coast line, and a great Cape stretched out into southern waters, probably deep into the cold Antarctic Drift. It is not unlikely that at the period of greatest coldness its southern extremity was at times ice-bound. Some of our rivers must have run strongly at times, cutting deep courses, now mainly filled with sand, but the former beds of some of them may clearly be traced along the ocean bottom far out to sea. At that time the warm Mozambique current would have been neutralised and inverted long before it could reach far south. At the other extreme, when the climate of the world before that period was likely milder than now, and the seas were deeper, our coast-line was not as far south as at present. There is evidence that the warm waters ol the Indian Ocean found free passage round the southern extremity of Africa, with the present Cape Peninsula as an island, a condition that apparently recurred in fairly recent geological time. There are remains of tropical mollusca on the shores of the western Cape, w'ell above the present water-line, and many of these species, while still vigorous in Natal waters, are not now found living at the Cape. If tropical mollusca were there, the waters which nourished them would have carried tropical fishes also. It is almost certain that at one time typical Indo-Pacific fishes, sub-tropical species at least, were living along and even westwards of the southern extremity of Africa.* I he onset of the great cold with corresponding shrinkage of the seas, while killing or driving away most of those fishes, possibly isolated the surv ivors in bodies of water which were never as cold as the fringing seas. It is suggested that it is those, probably few. survivors, which have given rise to the peculiar endemic fauna of Cape waters, and it explains why they differ from and yet so closely resemble typical Indo-Pacific fishes which still wander freely as far as our east coast. With these changes in mind we may turn to the future. Most scientists consider that we are still, climatically, moving away from the last glaciation, of which the Biblical flood is regarded as a result of one last flicker. It is, however, at least possible that we are instead well on the way to another spell of great cold, drought and harshness, and that the Biblical flood may have been the thaw following its first great advance. In the course of extensive travels covering most of our coast the author has been struck by repeated and widespread evidence of what is either ocean shrinkage, or land elevation, or both, in recent times. It is common to find on the shore extensive kitchen middens, with potsherds and stone implements among the ashes, shells and bones, which are the deposits of men who have lived in comparatively recent times, probably within the last I0,(KX) years. Almost all these deposits lie 10-50 ft. above the present high-water mark, an unreasonable situation unless the sea was higher * See note under Ponuniasys operculare (No. 679) in the Appendi.x. THE SOUTH AFRICAN REGION 11 at that time, as brief reflection will show. Also, in the sub-tropical region of our east coast, mangroves almost always fringe sheltered waters, and about them lives a mollusc with an elongated shell, a never found alive except near the water. In such places these and other marine shells may be found in numbers in unbroken sequence in the sand or soil from the shore for miles up to 30 ft. or more above the sea. They could not have been moved there by the wind, and are in such good condition as to force one to conclude that they lived and died (at water level) in comparatively recent times. Not a few landlocked lagoons contain some fishes absolutely identical with species living in the nearby sea, and they can be none but survivors of fauna isolated by recession of the seas, probably a matter of 2-3, OCX) years, almost certainly not 20,000 or 200,000. This matter has been discussed most ably in more technical fashion by Krige (Ann. Univ. Stellenbosch, 1927, vol. V, Sec. A., No. 1) with whose conclusions the author’s observations coincide. Whatever the fundamental cause of this change may be, it is possible that it may continue, and that the sea may fall as much as 2 ft. in a century, but as these changes while gradual are never regular, there will be advances and recessions. By the end of only 1,000 years it is not impossible that our seas may be as much as 10 ft. lower than at present, and brief reflection will show that the effect of this on the life of man, not only in South Africa, will be profound. Falling seas will affect the water level in all lands, and even though this will naturally lag considerably behind the fall in the sea, it will be none the less certain. The gradual but alarming diminution of our inland underground waters may well be one result of this relative change in ocean level. Dryness and cold go hand in hand, and our droughts may not be entirely man-made as some would have us believe. We are at present probably almost helpless in the face of great but slow changes in natural conditions, which must ultimately have profound effects on mankind. It is difficult to foresee all the consequences. We may, however, pass that by, for the angler-naturalist will travel far before he comes to any other land which can offer him anything comparable. We have not only one of the richest areas for fishes in the world, but are so situated that there is no predicting what may still be discovered. Even the casual collector may well come across species new to science or new to our region, which has as yet barely been prospected. The sensational discovery of a living Coelacanth fish (No. 98) in our waters in 1938 is an example of the surprises our seas may hold. Of the outstanding features of our area it may be stated that hardly any civilised and much fished area in the world can compare with that of False Bay of the Cape. Here we find vast assemblages of warm water fishes, which, turned about by the cold water, can travel no further westwards, whereas on the other hand, while cold water forms may circle False Bay, they rarely travel further east. So are produced those concentrations of angling fishes which have made this area famous. Attention may also be focussed on the waters of the southern tip of Madagascar, where in the slack area between the two arms of the great current there is a vast and varied fish life. Both shallow and deep banks literally swarm with fishes, and when sheltered harbours within easy reach arc developed, this may well become famous as a resort for anglers and as a rich source of protein food for Africa. A feature of our flatter rocky coastal areas is the intertidal zone, which shows wide variation in nature in different parts of the coast. Not only the fishes, but all forms of marine life vary according to the temperature of the water. Intertidal fishes are naturally small, but they are highly skilled in the art of concealment, using every crevice or hollow shell, every sheltering stone and every bit of weed. Many people walk over this area and never see the fascinating world which lies at their feet. On one occasion an overseas visitor remarked that our tide pools appeared disappointingly poor in life. To demonstrate what they really held, a pool about 8x6 ft., and about 6 inches deep, was stripped and searched, when over 40 fishes of 1 1 different species, numerous Crustacea, a number of mollusca and many other forms of marine life were brought to light. Any rocky intertidal zone in South Africa is a potentially rich and readily accessible field for the study of many fascinating forms of life so that it is a tragedy that there is continued and relentless stripping of most life there. In native areas hordes of nati\es daily remove every mollusc larger than a grain of maize. Only 20 years ago computation showed that near East London the natiscs removed over 1,(X)0 tons of mollusca annually from one stretch of rocks only about 8(X) yards in length, while from that same area to-day the annual yield is probably not 20 tons. The teeming intertidal life of 30 years ago has given place to bare rock, and little of anything is to be found there. It is note¬ worthy that in those parts shore fishes of angling significance have declined notably in numbers in recent years. Even the more enlightened European population is no less destructive. In most parts regularly fished there is marked scarcity of accessible baits which as recently as 20-30 years ago were quite abundant, and in some areas the once common Red-bait has almost entirely vanished. At Knysna the Arenicola (Blood-worm) has within 20 years been reduced to a tenth of its former numbers, and even the common Upo^ehia {Kapper or Mud Prawn) is quite scarce in most parts of the estuary, for even Europeans dig out these baits extravagantly far in excess of their needs. In the case of shore fishes it is likely that they do not travel far, so that unrestricted angling in one 12 THE SOUTH AFRICAN REGION area will markedly reduce their numbers. In many frequented angling areas a good catch has become an event whereas not far away in relatively inaccessible spots the same fishes are abundant and easily caught, and it h in such isolated areas that anglers sometimes make large catches which cannot be used and are just left to be eaten by sea-birds. Fishes do become “educated ", and learn to avoid danger, so that in much fished areas where angling is poor, a change to finer or less visible tackle often works wonders, for a time at least. Wasteful destruction will eventually be controlled by legislation. In other parts of the world this has long been in force, and it is only a matter of time before anglers themselves will insist upon restrictive measures. In this matter, however, regard should be had for the amazing regenerative power of the unprobed resources of the seas. While there is no doubt that w'ithout protective restriction the greater part of the animal life of most fresh waters would be wiped out in a short time, it is otherwise with the sea. It is the opinion of the author that the most man-ravaged stretch of coast would regenerate to normal in all forms of marine life if completely protected for 20 years. Future protective legislation may well be based on some such procedure. It has long been knowm that our seas are turbulent and liable to rapid change. Currents of dilTercnt tempera¬ ture close together are always danger spots in the oceans, and our " Cape of Storms ” has been dreaded by mariners from the earliest times. Those turbulent seas have shaped some of our fishes, for the Galjoen and others, at home in boiling surf, could never have developed in quiet waters. These same wild seas make it essential for our anglers to be wary, and those new to our region, or indeed to even a single spot, should acquire local knowledge before venturing on to any even tempting ledge. Great waves rise out of calm waiters and engulf the unwary, so that possibly a dozen anglers, not all beginners, fall victims to our seas every year. That is tragic, but care and experience will present it, and a temperate climate, beautiful scenery, convenient angling spots in a varied environment on shore and in the water, and a fascinating uncertainty as to what he may catch, make this a paradise for the angler. Human nature is always attracted by the unknown, and there is little Joy to the true angler in fishing where he knows he can always catch something of known size, for it ceases to be a sport and does not thrill. There is nothing like that about fishing in our seas. The angler never really knows whether he will sit with untouched bait, just feed small bait-snatchers, catch " pan-fish " or the big one of his dreams, or whether blistered hands and broken tackle will end the thrill of a rush from some unknown monster. The angler is in many ways a wise and fortunate man, for though it is not generally realised, angling is virtually the only remaining method in any civilised area whereby men in numbers may legitimately satisfy the primitive urge to secure meat by direct action. One of the reasons why anglers part so reluctantly with rare fishes they have caught is that they are thereby deprived of the satisfaction of displaying their achievement to their families. It is not mere selfishness, but conflict with one of the great forces of life. In addition, of all men the rock angler comes perhaps closest to nature. He learns to fear and respect the restless and colossal energy of the sea, and must watch every wave while on the alert for that electrifying tap or pull on his line. He cannot afford to do anything but sink himself into his immediate surroundings, for the penalty of inattention or incaution may be death. Contemplating his catch just landed safely from the boiling surf he e.xperiences a thrill which stretches back to the early dawn of mankind. THE TIDES The manner in which the tides are produced and the various factors and phenomena connected with them are exceedingly complicated. The account given here is much simplified and only an approximation. Gravitational force is not easy for the layman to understand, being the attraction of matter for itself, and by comparison with a force such as magnetic attraction so minute that two 8,000 ton vessels about 80 ft. apart attract one another with a gravitational force of only I lb. Being, however, proportional to the mass, or amount of matter, with enormous masses such as our earth and the sun, gravitational force is considerable. Its effect is inversely proportional to the square of the distance, so that if two bodies a mile apart attract one another with a gravi¬ tational force of I lb., when they are two miles apart the force falls to ] lb., at three miles it is lb., and so on. The two main forces affecting the earth are those exerted by the sun and the moon. The sun has a mass 26 million times that of the moon, and is 390 times as far from the earth. The gravitational pull of the sun on the earth is therefore about 175 times that of the moon. Since gravitational force is less with distance, matter on that part of the earth facing the sun or the moon will be subject to a greater effect than that on the opposite side. As the sun is relatively far away compared with the diameter of the earth, the difference in that case will be small, but it is quite considerable in the case of the moon. As may be readily understood the main effects will be observed in the fluid oceans, resulting in the phenomenon of the tides. It has been shown that this effect is a function of distance and it proves to be inversely proportional to the cube of the distance. While the gravitational force of the sun on the earth is 175 times as great as that of the moon, the tide-producing effect of the moon will be ■,•1",' times that of the sun, i.e. about 21 times. The moon has therefore a greater effect than the sun in producing tides by its action on the fluid oceans. When the sun and moon are in line with the earth, at new moon on the same side, but on opposite sides at full moon, their gravitational pulls work together to produce tidal effects. Half-way between these times, at half moon, the gravitational effects of the sun and moon are at right angles to one another in relation to the earth and for tidal effects do not reinforce one another. This is not easy to understand, but a study of the situation with rough diagrams will soon give any normal intelligent person some inkling of how it works. Tides result primarily from these lunar and solar forces, which together with the rotation of the earth, produce a series of tidal impulses originating off the coast of South America in the Pacific Ocean at an average interval of 12 hours 25 minutes. It takes 29' days for the moon to complete one apparent revolution about the earth. As the moon is the dominant factor in starting the tidal impulses, these are therefore on an average about 50 minutes later every day. These initial tidal impulses are like a series of waves which travel at about 300 m.p.h. initially mainly westwards across the Pacific, ft must be emphasised that the tidal impulse is not a current of water, for no current could move at that speed. When the impulse reaches the Australian region a long section of the front is stopped by the land there and becomes a true tide, while north and south the impulse continues round on its way. The southerly component bulges out westwards in the free southern Indian Ocean and actually reaches Cape Town before the side wash touches our South Coast, East London feeling its effect about 40 minutes later than the Cape. The map giving approximate co-tidal lines is more or less self explanatory. After reaching the Cape the impulse shoots northwards initially about 600 m.p.h., reaching as far as Newfoundland in Just over 10 hours. It must be clearly understood that these are all impulses and not currents. The energy in the impulse becomes changed into water movement only when stopped by land, so that while tides are pronounced on most continental shores, small isolated islands in mid-ocean may have relatively little rise and fall of tide. When impulses meet and combine towards rapidly narrowing inlets, tides may be phenomenal, in some places with as much as 50 ft. rise and fall. .As the South African shores receive what is virtually only a backwash, our tides are fairly small, the average between low and high water being about 4 ft. at neaps and close on 6 ft. at springs. At new and at full moon we have " spring '' tides, which are the effect of moon plus sun, when under normal conditions the diflcrcncc between high and low water is a maximum. Every tide thereafter is regularly less for about 7 days, which is the middle of the “ neap ” tides, these being the effect of moon less sun, and so weaker than the springs. After the 7 days the tides once again increase regularly until the next new or full moon. As every angler knows, there is no sudden change from “ neaps " to “ springs ", but a gradual transition from one to the other. Both winds and atmospheric pressure have an effect on the height of tides. On our south coast w'esterly winds ■cause higher tides, easterly winds having the opposite effect, because of the Mozambique current. When the 13 14 THE TIDES Fig. A. Showing main hourly co-tidal lines. barometric pressure is low, tides are higher. On our shores abnormally high tides occur with a low barometer and a westerly gale, not an uncommon combination here, and when this happens at high spring, phenomenal tides may result. Off the coast of Portuguese East Africa tides are much higher than on our shores. At the wide inlet of Delagoa Bay rise and fall at springs is about 8 ft. on the open coast, whereas at the peak of the bay, at Lourenco Marques, it is at least 10 ft. Further north at Beira it is over 15 ft. Tidal phenomena in estuaries are interesting. Water will not flow into an estuary inless the level of the sea is higher than that inside, when the water will run in at the mouth and gradually set the tide flowing all the way up the river. When that happens the water level in the river must be lower than in the sea, and progressively lower all the way up the river. When high tide in the sea is reached, water still runs into the river, and continues to do so even after the tide in the sea has started to fall, because the level in the river is lower. It is only some time after high water in the sea that the level of the water in the river becomes higher than that in the sea, and it then begins to reverse its flow and run out to sea. When the tide is at its lowest in the sea, water is stilt pouring out from the river, and at that moment, depending on the size and shape of the river bed, the water level some way up a tidal river may be anything up to several feet above that of the sea. Even after the turn from low tide in the sea itself, water still flows out of the river and continues to do so until the rising tide in the sea stops it. By watching closely at rocks at low water near the mouth of a tidal river it is possible to see that the water level rises even though the river current is still running strongly out to sea. The energy in the river current may even cause a certain amount of “ heaping-up ” of water at the mouth. In some parts where tides are powerful the water racing down a river and the rising tide in the sea pile up the water to such an extent that when the rapidly increasing tide in the sea eventually overcomes the river flow there is formed a “ bore ” or wave, sometimes of dangerous size, which then races up the estuary. This may often be seen on a small scale at spring tides in our longer rivers which have small mouths. Brief reflection will show that these phenomena will have certain other interesting consequences also. First, the rise and fall of the tide in a river or estuary must always be less than in the sea itself, and will be progressively less all the way up that river. Also, high and low water in an estuary must always lag behind those in the sea. At Knysna the tide inside the fairly large mouth is about 25 minutes later, 4 miles up about 50 minutes, and round a long narrow bend higher up over 2 hours later than in the sea. In rivers with more restricted mouth such as the Xora and the Umtata, the lag just inside the mouth averages about 2 hours. If the mouth is large and the estuary small, these differences are small, while the maximum effects are observed where a large river or estuary has a small mouth. These effects vary, being greater at spring and abnormal storm tides, and the variations are more marked the smaller the mouth of the river. THE EFFECTS OF FISHING There is a general belief among anglers in South Africa (and probably elsewhere also), that both shore and estuarine angling have declined in comparatively recent years, and there are few mature anglers who do not aver that catches were better and more regular in their young days. While this is probably true it is as well to remember that the human mind tends to smooth away what is unpleasant so that the high lights stand out, the many blank days of long ago tend to be forgotten, while the good catches remain etched on the memory as a pattern of past times. Before man appeared it may be accepted that the number of marine fishes in any one area had reached stability, and was more or less a constant average. Over long ages reproduction, food supply, and mortality must have attained a balance, “ The balance of Nature ”, on which mild fishing such as that of the few Strand- lopers before the advent of the white man probably had little if any effect. Of the balance factors, food and reproduction are not likely to change, so that if fishes have declined in numbers, the reason is almost certain to be increased mortality, and in shore fishes mortality is caused mainly by birds, shore netters and anglers. Birds have been present for so long that they must have been one of the original factors in the “ Balance of Nature ” as far as fishes are concerned, feeding mainly on the smaller or immature forms. It is regarded as harmful to kill immature fishes, but that is debatable if there is to be killing at all. On an average a fish produces at least 100,000 eggs per season, of which under normal conditions at most I or 2 can reach maturity unless that species is to increase greatly and by so doing upset the balance of nature on its own. An Elf or Shad (No. 547) 3 ins. long can have only about I chance in 100 of reaching maturity, so that it is probably more harmful to kill one adult Shad than at least l(K) small ones. As the birds depend solely on fishes for food, if fishes decline, birds will also diminish, so that their depredations are not constant but steadily proportional to the numbers of fishes. In the case of man] shore netters catch mainly half-grown and adult fishes, anglers mainly adults. There can be no question that their catches, if at all extensive, must upset the balance of nature, but whether or not angling fishes have seriously diminished we cannot say for certain. It is quite likely that shallow water shore fishes have a restricted habitat, so that intensive angling may well cause a local scarcity, which will remain as long as angling continues. It is common experience that in relatively inaccessible spots not far from such “ fished out ” areas one may still catch shore fishes in numbers. This does not necessarily mean that they are much more abundant there, because fishes become educated, and we all know how new methods, new baits or fine tackle often yield surprising results in the supposedly " fished-out ” areas. Just as the arsenic-resistant type of tick survived the dip, so do the more wary fishes evade the line. Instead of being “fished-out” an area may hold only wary fishes, the more foolish individuals all having fallen victims to the angler. It is often contended that shore netting has a bad effect on the reproduction of fishes, mainly because it stirs up the quiet areas where they breed. It is generally believed that fishes such as the Haarders or Mullets (No. 877 on) specially seek out the sheltered waters of estuaries for breeding. The author’s own investigations do not support that view, and he has indeed found that few of our fishes breed only in estuaries. There is no question but that nets sweeping an area day after day must cause serious depletion of the fishes living there as well as among the migrant forms commonly present, but the effects will not be nearly so devastating if breeding fishes could be preserved. It is doubtful whether present legislation protecting only immature fishes has any effect at all. One can see clearly what would happen if a sheep farmer preserved only his lambs and permitted the breeding stock to be slaughtered. Freshwater fishes have long enjoyed protection during the breeding season and it may well prove to be essential for marine fishes also, but a great deal of intensive research will be necessary before a practical scheme can be formulated. It would be interesting to follow the effect of closing a 50-mile stretch of rocky coast and one large estuary to all forms of fishing and beachcombing for 10 years. In the case of large scale commercial fishing, in most parts of the world there has been serious depletion, especially of the less wide ranging bottom dwelling types such as Soles. In South Africa the amount of fish caught annually has been maintained and even increased by the employment of improved methods and by the exploitation of new grounds. How long this can continue is a matter of conjecture, but we may assume that our descendants should have sufficient ingenuity to make good whatever harm we may be doing. 15 SCIENTIFIC NOMENCLATURE Anglers and others interested in natural history who have not had a biological training find it dillicult to understand why scientists give apparently meaningless names to even common creatures. It is not generally realised that man-like creatures have existed for not more than five million years, man himself for not more than part of one million, whereas there is at least a possibility that mankind may survive for many millions of years. Science can therefore be only in its earliest stages and will probably develop in a fashion which our brains can neither foresee nor understand. Ever since man realised that he existed, thereby sharply differentiating himself from other animals, he has been anxious to solve the scientific problems of his existence and those of other creatures. This has led to unceasing investigation into all forms of life which even at this early stage has yielded rich results, and it seems likely that we really have some idea of how creatures have developed, and from what they have come. Quite early it became vitally necessary to label individual creatures by name. That sounds simple enough, but it has taken many generations of some of the best brains in the world to evolve even the only partially satisfactory system now in use. A first necessity of science is a means of accurately conveying information, Within one nation that may be easy, but it ends with one language, for to the Anglo-Saxon “ shark means something, but nothing to the rest of mankind without explanation. Even within one language group the naming of creatures is simple only while it is uncritical. One " shark " to most people looks like any other “ shark ”, until a more careful observer points out some fundamental differences which others can understand, when it is accepted that there are different kinds of "sharks". Thus begins the notion of the "SPECIES", where numbers of individuals are so much alike that they cannot further be divided into groups differing from one another, and are accepted as being identical. Even the angler of no scientific training is fully aware of the significance of a " species ". If he catches a fish which he knows well, he is thereby recognising one particular species which he does not confuse with any other, and if he sees it often enough he usually gives it a name, mostly from some peculiarity of form or colour or habit or from a fancied resemblance to some other creature. Away along the coast other anglers catch the same fish but call it something else, and on our extensive shore-line it is not unusual to find fairly common fishes known by as many as six different names. Any of our fishes that occur in other lands also will have other common names there as well. This is confusing unless all these names are properly correlated, and it is in consequence of such difficulties that the scientist has attempted to evolve a system whereby creatures are labelled by a universal name. So far from wishing to confuse his fellow men, he is attempting to evolve order from chaos. A scientist who defines a species is required to attach to the name he proposes for it a full and accurate description or an accurate figure, preferably both. Unless that is done the name is not accepted by the scientific world, and the scientist is required to preserve at least one specimen on which he has based his description. That is then the TYPE of the species, and it is the duty of the original author to see that it is preserved with the greatest care. In illustration we take the case of the fish known to scientists as Pachymetopon gmneie Gunther. This is not only a scientific name, but also a label for all that appears about a particular fish in the literature of all races in the world. There is a specimen selected by the original author (in this case Dr. Gunther), and preserved as the type, which is at least a proof that he did not merely draw on his imagination, and is the final reference in case of doubt. No other creature may bear that name, and by taking a little trouble anyone can find out exactly what fish is meant. On the other hand, on the South African coast, that particular fish is called variously: Blue Hottentot: Hottentot: Butter-fish: Das: Fat-fish; Blue-fish; Bronze Bream; and Jan Bruin; and some of these names are applied also to quite different fishes in different localities. Anglers in particular find this aggravating. It is a characteristic of the human mind that it seeks always to classify. Even the least intellectual persons have mental categories for most things encountered, even though they may remain unaware that their minds work that way. Once creatures were sorted out and the notion of the " species " established, a wider grouping therefore became inevitable. Not only the scientist but also the angler recognises different types of Rock-cods, and he sees clearly that those Rock-cods, although different from one another, are all more clo.sely related one to the other than any one is to another fish such as the Galjoen or the Kabeljou. He thereby recognises the next step in classification, namely the grouping of related species in a "GENUS”. While scientists may 16 SCIENTIFIC NOMENCLATURE 17 quarrel over the precise significance of a GENUS it is in essence a group of related species. There are at least 20 different Rock-cods in our area, most of them in the Genus Epinephelus Bloch, which means that though different they have certain features in common. In that genus there are different species, e.g. ainlersoni, lauvina, gauza, etc. In the existing system each species bears two names. First comes the genus, then the specific name, e.g. Epinephelus andersoni Boulenger, which is the common “ Spotted Rock Cod ". Boulenger was the first to name and define accurately that particular species. (Note that the genus is always written with a capital letter, while the species commences with a small letter, even if it is named after a person, e.g. andersoni.) This is the modern Binomial Nomencalture. Names are by choice taken from Latin or Greek chiefly because being no longer current, words do not change in meaning as in a living language, and also, they have the merit of brevity. By convention scientific names need not mean anything but authors usually attempt to fit them to the species. The brief name “ Afwg// Iricuspidens " in strict English would be “Mullet with 3-pointed teeth”, while “ Eckloniuicluhys scylliorhiniceps ” would be “ Fish of the sea-bamboo with head like a dogfish”. To continue the explanation of classification, although there are a number of genera of Rock-cods all the species arc more closely related to one another than to any other fish. This is shown by isolating the genera in what is termed a FAMILY, and the FAMILY is therefore a group of related genera, each GENUS of one or more species. Thus all Rock-cods fall in the family SERRANIDAE, while the Kabeljou falls in the family SCIAENIDAE. Still further. Rock-cods and the Kabeljou are clearly more closely related to each other than either is to a fish like the Gurnard. This now takes us to the ORDER, which is a group of related families. The Kabeljou and the Rock-cod are together in one ORDER, the Gurnard in a different ORDER. Still further we have related ORDERS grouped together in a CLASS, and in the CLASS OSTEICHTHYES for example, we have all bony fishes including the Rock-cods, the Kabeljou and the Gurnard. These, although different, are related to one another in possessing bony skeletons, and differ from Sharks or Rays which have cartilaginous skeletons and are grouped in the CLASS CTIONDRICTITHYES. With the discovery of new facts, even the broad outlines of Zoological classification have changed quite rapidly during modern times. Actual names change quite often, and of those accepted for our fishes 50 years ago probably not more than 50 per cent, are valid to-day. This is one result of more intensive and thorough research work and need not deter or dismay the amateur, for when a scientist changes a name he must give full reasons for it, following rules laid down by an International Commission. When one realises all the difficulties which have arisen and which still exist in scientific classification, and that scientists are human, it is surprising that the confusion is not much worse, for the causes are many. The earlier workers were confronted with so much and varied material that they were able to appreciate only the broadest distinctions and did not realise the necessity for descriptions of biological detail nor the importance of preserving types. There is in consequence often doubt about the identity of the forms they described, for later workers quite often differ in their inter¬ pretation of an early description and this has caused many complications. Once, however, the importance of preserving types was realised, a great part of that confusion was eliminated, but many of the problems of earlier date still remain unsolved. In addition to all this, workers in remote parts unable to obtain adequate literature or to examine types, have often described as new, fishes which more careful research has shown to be already known. At the other extreme, collectors and more cautious workers have sent specimens to institutions overseas which have retained them. South .Africa has suffered much in this respect, as many of the types of our fishes are in Britain and the United States of America, and it is difficult or impossible to secure any of that material for examination. This militates seriously against the stabilisation of the names of our fishes. Naturally also opinions often dilfer, and while one authority may feel that a certain character Justifies a new genus or species, another may not. ,A good deal of unnecessary confusion is caused by w-orkers remote from the living creatures who handle only restricted preserved material. They often create quite artificial, what are termed " Museum ” species. A good example will be found in the paper L. 649 which deals with our Sea Breams. .Any angler who has caught the Bron/e Bream (No. 738) will at once recognise the Pachymetopon glauctini described there as precisely such an artificial species. One of the chief causes of the present instability is that while there is some general agreement about the significance of a species, there is wide divergence about the value that should be placed on the higher categories. Thus some, mainly the older workers, maintain that a genus should have wide limits and may embrace many different forms, and they view Families and higher groups in the same light. More searching modern analysis has inclined many w'orkers to the view' that a genus as w'ell as a species has a natural significance and should be related not only to form and structure but if possible also to habits and habitat. In consequence, while specific names have already attained considerable stability, genera are being sub-divided in a manner rather bewildering to workers of the older school, who occasionally utter protests against this 2 18 SCIENTIFIC NOMENCLATURE revolutionary modern tendency. We are familiar with this type of die-hard who in all stages of man's history has attempted to resist the discoveries of more agile minds. For example, even though the principle of priority in naming has been established, there are workers, mainly in the old world, who will not discard any name established ” by long use, even when research demonstrates clear priority for another. This arises possibly from a mistaken veneration for the passing works of man. is rather at variance with the aim and spirit of science, and leads to aggravating confusion. For systcmatics to have the maximum value, regulations should be observed even if all the consequences were not foreseen when they were established. A more rigid system of control is desirable. It is the conviction of the author of this book that the creation of a central International Bureau of Types is only a matter of time. This, accepted and supported by all biologists, could have within reastmable limits, wide authority. A staff of leading experts could judge the validity or otherwise of evidence and types submitted and issue permits to publish, and possibly also accepted duplicates of all types would be lodged there. C'crtain institutions overseas have in quite good faith attempted something of this function, but the resistance of able workers elsewhere, as well as inadequate storage, have diminished the value of their aims. Sustained, unselfish and co-ordinated effort is necessary before systematics will be lifted above criticism and reproach. In order to assist the beginner, the following case is cited to illustrate and explain something of the manner in which research is reported in scientific literature. It deals with the fish now known as Chcinicrius niifor (Valen¬ ciennes). It so happens that this is a somewhat variable species, not only changing in shape and in the length of its fins with growth, but specimens of the same size often show variations of form. In 1908 a worker examined a South African fish and considered it to be a new species, naming it Dcntc.x miles. A few years later he named another Dente.x aihus. In 1917, of further specimens, he regarded some as Dente.x miles, while others he identified as an Atlantic species Dente.x filosiis Valenciennes. In 1927 another worker, fortunately able to examine the types of those two sets of descriptions, as well as those identified as Dente.x filostis Valenciennes, was able to say that the types of Dente.x miles and Dente.x albus were not different from the specimen labelled /). filosiis. D. miles and D. aihus were thus shown to be SYNON\’MS of what that worker in 1927 still accepted as Dente.x f'losus Valenciennes, i.e. there were not 3 different species, but only one. Meanwhile another worker, an American, identified a fish from South Africa as Dente.x rupestris Valenciennes and described it as such. Most recently the author of this book studied this group of fishes, the DENTICIDAE, and was able to show in the case of this fish the following: (1) The original identification was wrong. Our species is not the Atlantic Dente.x filosiis Valenciennes. (2) It is actually a species niifor Valenciennes from the Indo-Pacific. (3) Valenciennes himself misled by its variability had actually described a specimen of this same species by another name, Dente.x variahilis. (4) Nufar differs so much from those placed in the genus Dente.x Cuvier, that its peculiar characters arc held to justify its separation from all others by the rank of a genus, named as Cheimerius new genus. (5) The opinion that D. miles and D. aihus were the same as those originally thought to be filosiis Valenciennes was upheld. (6) The American identification of a specimen as D. rupestris Valenciennes was shown to be incorrect. All these specimens were Cheimerius nufar (Valenciennes). This is summarised in the scientific literature as follows: Family . DESTICID.AE. Genus . Cheimerius Smith. Genotype... ... ... ... ... Dente.x nufar Valenciennes. Cheimerius nufar (Valenciennes). Dente.x nufar, Valenciennes, Hist. Nat. Poiss. 1830, p. 240. Dente.x variahilis, Valenciennes, 1830, loc. cit., p. 241. Dente.x miles, Gilchrist & Thompson, Ann. S.A. Mus. 1908, vol. VI, p. 155. Dente.x aihus, Gilchrist & Thompson, Mar. Bio. Rep. 1914, vol. II, p. 128, fig. Dentex filosiis, (non Valenciennes), Gilchrist & Thompson, Ann. Durb. Mus. 1917, vol. I. p. 356. Barnard, Ann. S.A. Mus. 1927, vol. XXI, p. 715. Dente.x rupestris, (non Valenciennes), Fowler, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad, 1925, vol. LXXVII. p. 240. Cheimerius nufar, (Valenciennes), J. L. B. Smith, Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. 1938, vol. XXVI, p. 292, fig. SCIENTIFIC NOMENCLATURE 19 Notes on the above: 1. The same species was described in the same work by Valenciennes under two different new names, viz. nufar and variahUis. The law of priority operates here, and nufar (p. 240) is accepted since it has “ page preference” over variahUis (p. 241). 2. Cheimerius nufar (Valenciennes) indicates that the original author of nufar was Valenciennes, but the brackets enclosing his name show that he placed it in a genus other than that now accepted. 3. Dentex filosus {non Valenciennes) Gilchrist & Thompson, Barnard etc., indicates that Gilchrist and Thompson wrongly identified a specimen of nufar Valenciennes as filosus Valenciennes, also that a later worker, Barnard, made the same error. 4. VariahUis, miles and alhus are shown to be SYNONYMS of nufar (and hence invalid), whereas and rupestris are not synonyms but MALIDENTIFICATIONS, being other valid species with which specimens of nufar were wrongly identified. SPECIAI. NOTE The author of this work may be compared with a guide lecturer taking interested persons to view a famous valley he has studied closely and knows well. From a vantage point he shows and explains the various details which add to the interest the general picture arouses, but even as they stand there changes are taking place, a farmhouse in construction, new fields broken in, trees growing and falling. If they revisit the scene after a period, although the fundamental structure of the valley will still be there, details will have altered. So it is with our ichthyology. This book is no final word. The Angler and the Naturalist must not expect that it will at last stabilise the scientific names of our fishes, for details will alter, change being an essential part of progress. The type of research which built this book goes on like the growth of trees in the valley, and indeed as this goes to press the author himself is engaged on further investigation. This work is but a summary of achievement to date. Its chief merit lies in the illustrations and descriptions which present our fishes as accurately as human care can achieve, for the names they bear in any particular period are of lesser significance. A CLASSIFICATION OF FISHES While no two leading taxonomists are in accord on all points, there is general broad agreement as to the main relationships of lish-like creatures. At one time all were grouped in the single class PISC'ES, but to-day several classes are recognised, and it is of interest to see them against their background in time. The first lish-like creatures of which we have certain knowledge were heavily armoured types which appeared about 450 million years ago. These were AGNATHA, animals whose mouths lacked bony jaws, a few of whose degenerate direct descendants, the Lampreys and Hag-fishes, still survive, but most died out by 300 million years ago. A more or less similar class termed the PLACODERMI, many heavily but difi'erently armed from typical .ACjNA'I'HA, and in some ways much more ud\'anced in having primitive jaws, were in existence 360 million years ago. Many different types of PLACODERMI appeared and flourished for a time but all became extinct by 200 million years ago. The earliest traces of the class OSTEKTl flD ES. in which are most modern fishes, show about 350 million years ago. The primitive forms in this class, now mostly extinct, flourished and developed for about 100 million years, but declined in numbers over the next 50 million years, when the early iineestors of modern bony fishes appeared, somewhere about 200 million years ago. The forms characteristic of that period have left few survivors, and types destined to lead to our modern bony fishes eventually appeared about 120 million years ago and rapidly increased in kind and number. The remaining class. CTIONDRICTITinTiS, which includes sharks and rays, first appeared about 360 million years ago, and although all of those primitive types became extinct, forms leading to modern sharks and rays developed by 125 million years ago. Living creatures fall into the animal KINGDOM which is then divided into PH^'LA. A PH'S LfIM is a great group of related forms next in order below the KINGDOM. Thus there are the Phyla CHORDA’fA. into which we, and fishes, fall, .\RTH ROPOD.A. embracing Insects, Crustacea. Spiders, etc., MOl.LUSCA and others. In etich PHYLUM we have one or more CLASSES, and in CHORDAT.Y for extmiple, we have the classes MAMMALIA (where we fall). AMPHIBIA. CHON DRICHTfO'ES (Sharks and Rays), OSTLICH- THYES (Bony fishes), and others. A primary phylogenetic tree for living fishes starts as shown: PH^■LUM CHORDATA SUB-PHYLLIM GNATHOSTOM ATA and others CLASS CHONDRlCHTH^■ES OSTElCHTin LS Further sub-division continues into SUB-CLASS, ORDER. SUB-ORDER. F.AMllA', GENUS and SPECIES. In the clasv ; CHONDRICHTHS ES typical classifications are shown below: CLASS CHONDRICHTHS ES SUB-CLASS EUSELACHll HOLOCEPHAl.l ORDER ASTEROSPONDS LI RAJAE CHlMAERAi: SUB-ORDER ISUROIDEI TORPEDOIDEI CHIMAEROIDE FAMILY ISURIDAE TORPEDINIDAE CHIMAERIDAE GENUS CARCHARODON TORPEDO CHIMAERA SPECIES carcharias (26) marmorata (91) monstrosa (93) which is the dreaded ■■ Maneater " the well-known " Electric Ray " the curious “ Chimaera ” 20 A CLASSIFICATION OF FISHES 21 In the class OSTEICHTHYES we have the sub-classes: (I) CHOANICHTH YES, Eung Fishes and Coclacanths. (II) PALAEOPTERYGI I, with few survivors, one being the curious Sturgeon of Europe, and (III) NEOP- TERYGII, modern bony fishes. Typical classifications are: SUB-CLASS (1) CHOANICHTHYES ORDER CROSSOPTERYGII DIPNOI SUB-ORDER COEEACANTHINI (RHIPIDISTIA) Degenerate Eung-lishes Extinct. of stagnant fresh water. FAMILY LATIMERIIDAE GENUS EATIMERIA SPECIES chalumnae (98) the famous fish of East London, 1939 SUB-CLASS (III) NEOPTERYGII with many Orders. Two are: ORDER PERCOMORPHI with many Families. Two are: MUGILOIDEA Several Families. One is: FAMILY SPA Rl DAE SERRANIDAE MUGILIDAE Some of our best known angling fishes fall here The Rock-Cods The Mullets Many genera. One is Many genera. One is Several genera. One is GENUS SPA RO DON PROMiCROPS MUGIL SPECIES durbanensis (711) lanceolatus (452) cephalus (877) The " Brusher ” or " Siber Steenbras ” The famous The “ Brindle Bass " or common “ Springer " “Flathead Mullet” COMMON NAMES South Africa has an extensive coast, in many parts sparsely populated, and communities arc sometimes far apart, some quite isolated. As anglers and fishermen tend to name any fish they come to recognise, practically every isolated angling group has its own common names, so that in some cases one species may bear anything from 6-10 names, and when anglers from difl'erent parts meet they often talk at cross purposes. For that reason many feel it would be desirable to do something about common names, and some years ago an attempt was made to standardise or Hniit them. There are, however, many serious difficulties, none insuperable, but very real, and local, provincial and racial factors intrude. The Cape angler is as unlikely to give up his name of “ Lcerfish ” and adopt the Natal “ Garrick ”, as the Natal angler is unlikely to agree to adopt Afrikaans names from the Cape. As explained elsewhere, the scientist has attempted, not always successfully, to bring about uniformity in his own sphere. The instability of scientific names even with the help of most carefully compiled international rules shows how difficult it is to achieve uniformity. Synonymy is not undesirable as long as it is correlated, so it does not matter if a man from Durban speaks of a “ Springer ”, while the same fish is called " Skipjack ” by the Transkeian and ” Cape Salmon ” by anglers of the Cape coast. As long as they can refer to a work which correlates the names, preferably with good pictures of the species, there is no reason why all the names should not continue to be used. The author of this book has for many years collected common names of fishes along our coasts, and a feature of this work is the list of such names with localities given with the species. The system here adopted together with full indexing should enable anglers everywhere to smooth out their difficulties in the matter of common names. The passing of many of those names would be a pity as they are of local and historic interest. Some scientists look upon the confusion of common names as stupid, and easily remediable by stan¬ dardisation. They forget the confusion in scientific nomenclature, and think it is the duty of the scientist to suggest common names tor the common man to use. Some of those names suggested by scientists, however, are as far from reality as the drab mummified bottled objects in Museums from the flashing brilliance of living fishes, and they lack entirely that apt spontaneity which characterises most common names given by anglers who know the living creatures. It would be a tragedy if any of these expressive anglers' names were allowed to fall into oblivion and an attempt made to replace them by cumbersome unimaginative concoctions of .scientists out of touch with the realities of the anglers' world. It is in any case absurd to suggest so-called ” Common Names ” tor fishes which the average man may hope to see at most once in a lifetime. 22 THE ANCESTRY OF FISHES During the past century Zoological classification has undergone some rather startling changes, and views about the origin and development of life, including the origin of man, have especially in the past 20 years been profoundly influenced by the rich discoveries of the palaeontologist and of the archieologist. There seems to be little doubt that life originated in the water, and spread only much later to the land. We know hardly anything about the presumably tiny free-moving early forms of life, which must have lived, multiplied and developed over millions of years, giving rise finally to larger forms which were the ancestors of all types of living creatures. Not .so long ago it was thought that the earliest true fishes must have been soft-bodied, merely more highly developed larger editions of the small creatures of some other class from which they had originated. As they would therefore have had no hard bony parts it was assumed that we could know nothing about them, for they could leave no fossil remains. It was also presumed that from a sort of laziness, the inertia of matter, some came to develop heavy body armature as a protection, and later paid the penalty for such high specialisation by extinction long millions of years ago. Many of these heavily armoured types have left remarkably complete .series of fossil remains and much of even their internal anatomy has been deduced. In recent years there has been a tendency to query these ideas, and it is suggested by some authorities that the earliest creatures which can be regarded as in any way fish-like were indeed heavily armoured forms. Some of those rather curious animals previously regarded as unsuccessful side-line experiments of nature have been elevated to the rank of possible ancestors of jawed vertebrates of all kinds. Appearing when invertebrates were already well-developed, some of them large and powerful, those early fish-like creatures must have had a long and difficult struggle for existence. Though initially having a mouth without bony jaws they eventually gained the mastery in the water and gave rise to many different types, some of them fantastic creatures of great size. While heavy armour has obvious advantages for conllict with other creatures, it imposes severe handicaps in coping with natural changes, and the fossil record clearly shows the gradual disappearance of the armoured types and the rise and development of less cumbered forms. Some authorities therefore conclude that during the past 400 million years there has been a steady reduction in external armour with fishes directly progressing towards the more flexible forms which predominate to-day. The fundamental points in this theory are firmly contested by some authorities, who maintain that it is ridiculous to suppose that anything so highly developed as a creature with heavy bony armour could be the original ancestor of all vertebrates. In early development of any vertebrate soft cartilage always precedes bone, so that smaller soft-bodied ancestors must have preceded their armoured descendants. Naturally, armoured forms would leave more complete fossil records than the soft. Both sides have evidence in support of their theories. In this controversy the points at issue are, first, were there any soft-bodied creatures before the armoured types which could be termed “ Fish-like and second, could the heavily armoured forms really have given rise to any but their own kind, all of which are now extinct? Both of these are likely long to remain debatable points. At one time many paheontologists considered that the original ancestor of all fish-like creatures was probably something shark-like, without bony skeleton or scales. That theory has few supporters to-day, for the fossil record shows clearly that when the now extinct Placoderms and the ancestors of other fish-like creatures had already become well established over a wide area, without any warning from obvious ancestral types, shark-like creatures suddenly appeared, in numbers and of fair size. Furthermore, while most fish-like vertebrates appear to have originated in fresh water, or at least in marginal waters, the Chondrichthyes appear to have been fully marine from the start, but even that point is contested by some authorities. The ancestral types of this class are and may well remain something of a mystery, for, except by fortunate but rare accidents, sharks rarely leave in fossils more than traces of teeth and of fin spines, and if their early ancestors had neither, we may never find a trace of them. Their origin seems likely to have been long distinct from that of the bony fishes. 23 DANGERS OF THE SHORE Every person fond of the sea should know something about the dangers which lie in wait tor the unwary. Read the note about " Poison ” (p. 28) and never eat any strange fish until you arc reliably inlormed it is wholesome. Never cook even for animals Porcupine-fishes, Blaasops or Tobies (TETRAODONl I DAE, No. 1181 on). Trigger-fishes (MONACANTEllD.AE, BALISTIDAE, No. 1137 on), or any such odd creatures. Discard the heads of Goat-fishes (MU LEI DAE, No. 560-573). and it is wiser not to eat the liver of any fish unless you know it is wholesome. (See Petrus rupcstris. No. 741.) Never cat livers of Sharks, as some are toxic. While most people are alive to the ever present menace of sharks, few realise that other dangerous fishes are about. It is fortunate that there are relatively few fishes with poisonous spines in our area, but is is well to know and avoid even those. Anglers should exercise the greatest care with any RAY, BARBEL (No. 165), BARBEL EEL (No. 163), STONE-ViSHES and SCORPION-EISHES (No. 1029 on), or EEL (No. 1089 on) they may catch, in handling spiny fishes, and in walking among stones or weeds or on reefs. An ordinary canvas shoe is no protection against some spines, and carelessness may mean great agony and up to weeks in bed. In general the warmer the sea the greater the danger, certainly in our area, and north of Durban the number of dangerous fishes increases rapidly. BITES. ORD^^AR^ FISHES. If the skin of the wounded area is clean the bites of most fishes, while momentarily painful, rarely cause trouble provided care is taken to prevent later infection. The bites of rock-haunting marine eels should, however, receive treatment as soon as possible as they often suppurate if neglected. Irrigation with permanganate has been used, followed by a wet dressing of 5 per cent. Glauber salt solution on lint. The bite of the Cape Snoek (Thyrsites, No. 863) is said to prevent coagulation of the blood. It is possible that the deep, jagged lacera¬ tions caused by the fangs of the fish arc the main trouble. Dusting of wounds with some styptic such as iodoform powder, and a tight bandage are recommended. Unless bleeding stops within 10 minutes, apply a tournic|uct (see shark w'ounds, below) and obtain medical aid as soon as possible. BEEES. SHARKS. In all cases of bites by Sharks. E.ARLY MEDIC.AL AID IS VITAL. Those bitten by Sharks almost always sufl'er from shock, and many die probably from that together with haemorrhage, for if a limb is severed enough blood may be lost in a few moments to cause death. Even when not severed a limb may be severely injured and in all cases rapid action is vital. To stop bleeding bind verv tiyht/y with string or rope just above the worst bleeding, ignoring smaller wounds higher up. Once in safety, keep the patient quiet and warm and secure medical aid as soon as possible. Warm drinks are helpful, but GIVE NO ALCOHOL as it promotes bleeding. If much blood has been lost try to send warning ahead for a blood transfusion. .Above all do not permit the wounded person to feel that life is in danger. It is important to remember that even at the risk of loss of a little blood, a tourniquet should not be kept tight for more than 20 minutes at a time. .At the end of that period release very carefully for a short time according to the amount of blood that still escapes, then tighten up and repeat after 20 minutes. In the case of a severed limb, however, leave the binding in place until medical aid is obtained, and if possible locate the main arteries and tie their ends also. WOUNDS FROM SPINES. SH.ARKS. — Spiny Sharks can inflict nasty wounds but they are not poisonous. Treat with sulphanilamidc powder and bandage firmly. R.AVS, B.ARBELS, EEI.-B.ARBELS.~ Many Rays and the Barbels bear serrated spines coated with toxic mucus. W'ounds from these spines are dangerous and may even prove fatal if neglected. The patient usually suffers most intense pain which may cause a type of shock to the system, from which probably some of the after effects commonly observed may result. Should the spine break off and remain in the wound it is most important 24 DANGERS OF THE SHORE 25 to attempt to remove it even at the eost of' some laeeration. Two things are advisable early, irrigation of the wound by means of a syringe with weak permanganate, and injeetion of local anaesthetic to diminish the pain, while the more rapidly medical aid is sought the better. SPINY FISHES of the Scorpion or Stone-fish type. In our waters few Scorpion fishes are encountered and most stabs, after a few moments of sometimes intense pain, ease off and generally heal with little inflammation. The Stone-fish (Syna/wcia, No. 1052) is fortunately rare in our waters and has so far not been observed south of St. Lucia. Poisoned stabs from this deadly brute should have early extensive injection of local anesthetic together with syringe irrigation of the wounds with weak permanganate solution, for neglect may prove fatal. ORDINARY FISHES. The mucus which coats all fishes appears to cause at least some pain when injected or forced into the flesh. Most stabs from spines of ordinary fishes are quite painful for a few minutes and may even remain tender for some days, but few give trouble unless the skin or spine was dirty. Such wounds should be vigorously sucked or otherwise caused to bleed, after which they may be left. CREATURES OTHER THAN FISHES SEA-SNAKES. Although many species of eels live in the sea, and the bites of most are painful and may turn septic if neglected, none arc really toxic. Besides eels there are several species of Hag-fishes commonly called “ Sea-snakes ”, which are occasionally taken on lines. These soft creatures have more or less circular sucking mouths and give out astounding quantities of thick, slimy mucus so as to be most unpleasant to handle and free from the line. Most anglers just cut loose. While quite harmless to man, having no true teeth and no jaws at all, they work great havoc by means of the sucking mouth and rasping tongue. The fish on a baited hook just melts away, often without any sign to the angler, when one of these pests attacks it. Luckily they are rarely encountered cast of Agulhas. Fig. H. The Common Cape “SFA-SNAKF ' or “ SEF-SL.ANCj ", Heplatrettts hexalrema Mull. The arrow shows the gill-opening. Quite another matter is the true .Sea-.Snake, Pelamys phuurus Linn, (see Plate l(X). p. 420). This creature is not fish-like in any way but a true snake, a reptile which has taken to life in the sea. and it is easily recognised by the flattened bladc-likc tail and by the yellow markings. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific it is not uncommon on our shores and travels as far south as Knysna, but is fortunately rare west of East London. Although living mainly _in the water, an occasional specimen does come ashore and lies among the weeds. It should be avoided, for it is as deadly as the puff-adder and death usually follows the untreated bite. Treatment is as usual tor snake bite, ligature above the bite, deep incision at the punctures, the cuts sucked strongly, permanganate crystals pushed in deeply, and if possible Anti-venom serum injected. In any case, seek medical aid immediately. .MARINE ORf ; AN IS.MS. It is generally inadvisable to push the hand into crevices below the water. Quite often as a result of this, even initially painless stings from various marine creatures cause later alarming swelling and inflammation often with pain or itching that may last for days. Certain Anemones and the well known floating “ Blue-bottle ” are probably the chief offenders, but there are others also. Medical aid can give some measure of relief from what may develop into a generalised irritation. CUTS. — Especially in estuaries or on the shore near large cities, any cut or abrasion from rocks or hard marine growth should not be neglected or it may turn septic and give much trouble. It should be opened, cleaned and packed with sulphanilamide powder, or treated with wet dressings for some time. ICHTHYOLOGY IN SOUTH AFRICA Faced by continual dangers and privations the early colonists in South Africa had but little time to devote to the study of natural history. This unfortunate tradition has persisted almost to the present day, and until quite recently work of that kind has been done mainly by the visitor, the imported official or the foreigner, with the consequence that a number of early types of our species are lodged in various institutions overseas, and being to South African workers almost inaccessible, constitute a serious handicap. It is curious that while several branches of natural history in South Africa received attention quite early from competent workers, our great wealth in fishes remained virtually unknown until this century. Before that Cuvier had described some endemic Cape fishes, the great Blecker found time to write about a few, and his countryman Pappe summarised the known edible Cape fishes and described some endemic forms. The tempera¬ mental and not always accurate Comte de Castelnau dashed off a few brief dc.scriptions during a visit to the Cape. The outstanding figure of the early years of last century was Andrew Smith, some of whose illustrations of our species remain unsurpassed. Even allowing that he was a busy man, it is regrettable that his interest in fishes appears to have been detached and academic only, for though resident at the coast he did not sec a fraction of the great wealth that lay untouched at his feet. During the second half of last century little was added to the knowledge of our fishes. The versatile Boulenger visited the Cape and published a few descriptions of endemic forms at the close of the century, but the real birth of ichthyology in South Africa came with J. D. F. Gilchrist, Professor of Zoology at the Cape, who was the first to probe the great wealth of our seas, and the first to appreciate the characters which make this region almost unique. His energy, ingenuity and enthusiasm overcame the numerous difficulties which beset his waiy. Not only was he an able .scientist, but he had a clear perception of the economic value of fishes, and the great development of this national asset in recent years is a result of his pioneering foresight. Gilchrist may well be named the father of South African marine biology. Not content merely to describe what came easily to his hand, although physically slight, he was prepared to endure danger and discomfort in seeking material himself, and he had that e,\tra touch which raised him above the mere Museum specialist. Gilchrist's work has not received the credit it merits. He had time to do no more than describe part of the great wealth of material his labours had brought together, and with failing health in advancing years saw the regional monograph to which his work was leading fall to the hands of a younger man. This was K. H. Barnard, recently arrived from Britain, already well known as a Carcinologist. who was directed to fishes by Peringuey, Director of the South African Museum. With little previous knowledge of fishes Barnard brought to his formidable task a great capacity for painstaking work and a brilliant and versatile intellect. His task was to compose rather than to dissect, and of necessity he based his conclusions mainly on preserved material. His resulting Monograph of the " Marine Fishes of South Africa ” (1925-1927) was an excellent compilation, the descriptions being detailed and accurate. Even though research has in recent years wrought many changes, Barnard’s monograph will nevertheless remain one of the outstanding contributions to South .African ichthy¬ ology. Coincident with Barnard, the able and experienced American ichthyologist, H. W. Fowler, working under a considerable handicap at a great distance, has exercised a marked influence on South African ichthyology. The opinions of this great figure in modern ichthyology, based on a unique and vast knowledge of fishes, are of the greatest value to all workers in our area. Fowler’s material came mainly from the late H. W. Bell Maricy, a naturalist with an aptitude for collecting bordering on genius. A certain amount of work also was done on our fishes by the late J. R. Norman and the late C. T. Regan, both of the British Museum. C. von Bondc alone and with co-workers has published a number of papers on our fishes, but, as Director of Fisheries, his time has become increasingly occupied by administrative duties. Of more popular works usable by the layman, " The Sea Angling Fishes of the Cape ", by C. L. Biden, contains a wealth of information about our better known angling fishes. Barnard has recently (1947) produced a popular work of restricted scope with a number of semi-impres¬ sionistic black and white figures, which has some educative value. Jt is interesting to see how investigation has increased the number of species known to occur in our waters. Up to the time of Andrew Smith’s “ Illustrations ’’ of our Fishes, 1849, less than 200 species had been recorded or described, and from then until 1900 the number increased only to about 330, of which 66 were regarded as 26 ICHTHYOLOGY IN SOUTH AFRICA 27 endemic. During the next 25 years, mainly as a result of Gilchrist’s field work, the number increased rapidly and Barnard s monograph of 1927 listed 1,005 species (of which about 955 are valid), with 315 then regmded as endemic. During the 20 years since that time about 320 species have been added. These are new to science or known species new to our region, which have been recorded or discovered as follows- 20 by Barnard about f,0 by Fowler, 20 by odd workers, the remainder by the author of this work. In that same period many ’species considered endemic in South Africa have been found elsewhere, so that although numerous new species have been discovered here, the proportion of endemic species has diminished. In this volume a total of 1,275 species IS recogni.sed, of which 315, or just one quarter, are accepted as endemic. As knowledge increases’ so will the total steadily increase, while with wider collecting in other areas some of our supposed endemics will be found elsewhere. There is scope for organised collecting on all our coasts, and anglers and naturalists are urged to assist by sending material to Museums. Full directions are given on p. 33. Scientific works which deal wholly or partly with our fishes will be found at p. 492. GENERAL NOTES ABOUT FISHES 1. SPEED and MIGRAI ION. There is not much reliable information about the speed at which dilferent fishes can swim, but that any true fish can exceed 30 m.p.h. except in a short burst, is doubtful, for on hard sand a man can outrun a racing Mullet (or Trout). The scream of a reel is deceptive, for if you tie your line to an tictivc lad and let him run away from you the result is surprising. Tagging experiments have shown that fishes moving steadily in one direction along a coast do not usually travel fast. In theory capable of covering a great distance it is probably rare fora fish to do more than 80 miles in a day, and while sharks are reputed to cover great distances at speed, this is possible, but unlikely. Shoals of small fishes, such as Sardines, appear to move at 1-3 miles per hour along the surfaee. There is a vast field for research on the nature and extent of the migrations of fishes in South African waters. 2. POISON IN FISHES Some fishes produce powerful toxins. The Blaasops or Tobies (No. 1181 on) are notorious in that respect, the whole body, notably the sexual organs, liver and skin, being toxic if eaten. Some fishes, e.g. certain LABRIDAE (No. 770 on) are toxic at certain times, possibly from seasonal food, and in general it is unwise to eat any strange fish until you are told it is safe. Some fishes bear spines, sometimes serrated, coated with highly toxic mucus, and wounds from these are often intensely painful, sometimes fatal. Other fishes, rare in our area, bear grooved spines with true poison sacs much like those of a snake. Many brightly coloured, highly spiny fishes are dangerous, and in general, TREAT SPINES of any kind WITH RESPECT, even when a fish is dead. For treatment of wounds, see p. 24. As the salt water continually bathes their mouths, bites from fishes rarely give trouble and mostly heal uneventfully. The bite of the Snoek (No. 863) is much feared by fishermen as it is believed to be followed by failure of the blood to coagulate, but this requires confirmation by controlled scientific experiment. 3. SEX and REPRODUCTION In Sharks and Rays male and female differ markedly in external features, often in body shape also. This is termed SEXUAL DIMORPHISM. The sexes of most bony fishes are alike, the females generally being the larger. Some striking cases of sexual dimorphism are known, mainly among fishes of relatively restricted habitat, e.g. CLINIDAE (No. 977 on). GOBIIDAE (No. 903 on). LABRIDAE (No. 770 on) and others. Internally the OVARIES of the female are usually sausage-shaped, and when ripe are mostly yellow and occupy much of the abdominal cavity, and the individual eggs may clearly be seen when the ovary is broken. The testes of the male are elongate white bodies usually triangular in cross section. The often fatty white lower lobe of the liver should not be mistaken for testes. Sharks and rays reproduce by internal fertilisation, the male having special organs for this purpose (see figures of Sharks and Rays). Some rays and sharks produce relatively few and large characteristic eggs, having hard mostly angular horny cases, often with filaments, while others produce the young alive, often fully formed, and are said to be VIVIPAROUS. A few bony fishes copulate, e.g. CLINID.AE (No. 977 on) and GOBIESOCID.AE (Nos. 1086-1088), while some are viviparous also, e.g. CLINIDAE (No. 977 on). Reproduction in bony fishes is generally an extravagantly wasteful process. The female produces numbers of small eggs, some species up to 10,000,000 in one season, which are ejected in batches when an attendant male or males eject milt (spermatozoa), but many eggs fail to be fertilised partly because the sperms are active for only a few seconds, so that from these millions of eggs probably only one or two attain maturity. Most bony fishes produce tiny eggs, usually smaller than a pin's head, each containing a minute oil globule, which float on the surface and are said to be PELAGIC. Many small fishes and other creatures of the surface feed largely on these eggs. Somewhat larger, heavier eggs, from inch to | inch in diameter, which sink in water, arc said to be DEMERSAL. These often bear sticky filaments so that they adhere to marine growth until hatched, as in the Needle-fishes (No. 216 on). Some fishes lay flattened eggs covered with a sticky substance which rapidly hardens so that they remain attached to shells, e.g. GOBIIDAE (No. 903 on), or to plants, e.g. GOBIESOCIDAE (No. 28 GENERAL NOTES ABOUT FISHES 29 1086 on). Some fishes, e.g. eertain LABRIDAE (No. 770 on) build nests. The male Barbel (No. 165) carries eggs and young in his mouth, while male Sea-horses (No. 344 on) carry them in a pouch on the abdomen. In some species the eggs are carried as a glutinous mass on the back. The lumps of slimy jelly-like substance sometimes thrown up in quantity on the shore are not lish eggs, but various adult marine creatures, some being colonies of Ascidians, formed like the common Red-bait, the individuals being quite small but distinguishable on close examination. 4. SLEEP Sleep is apparently not a habit of most fishes, but it has been observed in a few species, e.g. LABRIDAE (No. 770 on) and BALISTIDAE (No. 1 155 on). One of our Wrasses (No. 779) of Natal may not uncommonly be found tucked away asleep in a crevice at low tide at night. 5. MUCUS All fishes have a covering of mucus or slime which assists in protecting their bodies from the action of the water, hut it is usually not obvious until after death. 6. DRINKINC. The tfuids in the body of a bony fish (as in ours) contain less salt than sea-water but more than fresh water. In the sea. despite the skin, scales and mucus, as a result of a phenomenon termed OSMOSIS, water is continually passing out of the body and must be replaced. So a marine bony fish drinks often but the body possesses the power of collecting the excess salt so consumed and taking it to the gills where it is excreted continuously by special glands. A iresh-water fish need not drink as water is always passing into its bodyand is excreted normally via the kidneys but the essential salts of the body are retained. Sharks and Rays achieve equilibrium by quite a dilTerenl method. By retaining in the blood degradation products, mainly urea, the osmotic pressure of the blood is maintained at the same level as the surrounding medium, so that osmosis through the skin does not occur. 7. SAl. r and ERE.SH V\ A I ER A fresh-water fish put into sea water rarely survives more than 2 hours, and may die even in a few minutes. Marine fishes put into fresh water on an average live longer, but most die. If the change is made very gradually some manage to live for some time, but most die eventually. A few fishes are equally at home in salt and in fresh water even if the change is rapid, while a few typically marine species manage to survive in closed lagoons until the water becomes almost fresh. In our area the Monodactyiidae (Nos. 580-581) and certain Mullets (No. 877 on) are of this type. There is a typical “ brackish water ” fauna, found mostly in the upper reaches of tidal estuaries. Most sharks appear able to survive in fresh water for lengthy periods. 8. lASLE Little is known about this sense in fishes, though it probably functions to some extent. Some fishes take into their mouths inedible matter such as cloth, but reject it, while the Kabeljou (No. 552) often takes in food, ejects it and then returns to swallow it. Sea-horses (No. 344 on) do much the same. Some fishes will not easily take stale bait, while others seem to prefer it, but whether this depends on taste is not known. Sharks swallow the most curious substances, probably because of smell rather than taste, e.g. a saucepan might smell attractive. 9. SMELI. It is believed that smell is poorly developed in bony fishes but is the main sense used in the detection of food by cartilaginous fishes, and indeed a shark has been described as a " Swimming Nose", for all Sharks are quick to detect odours and easily excited by the presence of blood or body exudates in the water. More than other fishes, sharks swallow strange objects, like saucepans or bottles, possibly from odours they bear, and they are known to be repelled by certain substances, notably their own decomposed flesh probably by its odour. In recent years it has been found that Copper Acetate is a powerful shark repellent, and is even more effective when mixed with certain blue dyes. Used in tablet form the mixture dissolves slowly and effectively protects men in the water from both sharks and crocodiles. It should be noted that Copper Acetate is an irritant and poisonous if taken internally, but is apparently not harmful to those using it in this way in the water. 30 GENERAL NOTES ABOUT FISHES 10. HEARING Fishes are undoubtedly sensitive to vibrations in the water but it cannot be said that they hear in the same range as man. They are often but not always startled and put to flight by noise in the air or by vibrations trans¬ mitted to the water. About the pillars of a railway bridge 1 have seen a shoal of Elf or Shad (No. 547) chasing Haarders or Mullet (No. 877 on) on the surface, when a train came up at fair speed making much noise and causing vibrations in the water easily felt in a nearby boat. Movement ceased for about 5 seconds but betore the train had left the bridge the hunt was again in full cry. An aeroplane passing low appears to scare fish in shallow water but that may be a visual effect, while trains passing close to a shore have been said to drive shore fishes permanently from that area. (But see Note 22 of this series.) 11. SIGHT The lens in the eye of a fish is almost spherical, being adapted for vision in water, which has a higher refractive index than air, but space does not permit of a full discussion of the interesting water-air-light phenomena, which may be found in any elementary text-book of Physics. On the whole, fishes have good sight which probably plays a considerable part in finding food, and experiments connecting food with colour have shown that fishes have some degree of colour vision. 12. OTHER SENSES Fishes have mucus-bearing canals or tubes on the head and body, the best known being the LATERAL LINE. This system probably detects vibrations or variations in pressure so as to warn the fish it is approaching an object, while in certain Sharks this sensory system contains also thermoreceptors. From the results of experiments the author believes that some fishes at least have a sense unknown to us, neither sight nor taste nor smell, for detecting food. Also it is an education to see how fishes shy away from bait attached to a visible line, even in wild unfished areas. 13. AIR-BLADDER Most bony fishes possess an air bladder or hydrostatic organ, which lies against and below the vertebral column in the abdominal cavity. It is usually flexible and sometimes connected by a tube to the throat. By varying the amount of gas in the air-bladder a fish can adjust its ow n density. When a fish is hauled up rapidly from the depths the gas in the air-bladder expands so much that the organ often protrudes from the mouth of the fish. Thus a trawl-net “ Cod-end " usually shoots to the surface and floats there buoyed by thousands of distended air-bladders. In some fishes the air-bladders have many side branches, in others the hind end diverges into two prolongations which extend into the tail of the fish, while in a few fishes the air-bladder is cellular, and in the Lung-fishes it is used as a lung. 14. TOUCH Many fishes do not react with fear when carefully touched. Catching Trout by " tickling ” is well known, and the same process may be used to take a number of our fishes which live in rock-pools. Certain LABRIDAE (No. 770 on) and Rock-cods are easily captured in this way, and at night Mullets (No 877 on) are also easily taken by hand. Many fishes, especially bottom feeders, detect food by touch, some such as the CHILODAC- TYLIDAE (Nos. 397-399) and the TRIGLIDAE (No. 1077 on) use the lower pectoral rays which are elongated and detached. Quite a number of fishes have sensitive barbels below the chin, and as the fish swims slowly along the bottom the barbels move constantly. When they feel any food the fish swings round and attacks it. In the depths of the ocean where there is little or no light and eyes are useless, many fishes have developed filamentous prolongations of the fins for use as feelers. 15. ELECTRIC ORGANS Quite a number of different types of fishes have developed the power of producing electricity, which is generated by muscular tissue richly supplied with nerves functioning as a battery with thousands of specially modified (concentration) cells. In series and in parallel these convert nervous energy into electricity. A surprisingly large number of fishes have these organs, being present in almost all Rays, but particularly well developed in the Electric Rays (TORPEDINI DAE, Nos. 89-92), in which they form a large mass on each side of the head, (see Fig. F, p. 74). The fish uses this power to stun smaller creatures for food, and in the case of the large fresh-water Electric Eel of South America its shock may kill a man. A large Electric Ray can give a severe shock, but the intensity rapidly diminishes and the fish becomes exhausted with repetition. By deliberately inciting a Ray to discharge repeatedly it can be exhausted so as to be unable to move for some time, and it does k GENERAL NOTES ABOUT FISHES 31 not then appear able to recover its ability to give shocks for many hours. Certain structures found in fossils indicate that it is at least possible that certain armoured fishes of 400,000,000 years ago had already developed electric organs, mainly about the head. 16. LIGHT Fishes, like insects, surpass man in producing light without heat, and mainly in the depths fishes have developed organs which produce light. In many cases these are rather small, rounded patches, each in a scale, arranged in regular series, such as in the MYCTOPHIDAE (Nos. 192-208). In other fishes the organs are in the form of larger patches, and in some cases both types are present. Certain deep water sharks exude luminous mucus (e.g. No. 52), generally from specific areas of the body. 17. SOUND Many fishes when taken from the water produce grunting or croaking noises. Mostly this is the result of the rasping of the pharyngeal teeth caused by contractile spasms of the jaw muscles with the mouth cavity as a sound box. It is not generally known that even certain species of Mullets (No. 877 on) make a twittering sound. From the earliest times it has been known that fishes of the family SCIAENIDAE (Nos. 549-559) make quite loud noises in the water, probably at breeding time, and in the Mediterranean fishermen listen in with special equipment to track our Salmon or Kabcljou (No. 552) by the drumming noises they make. Using recently developed equipment it has been found that fishes everywhere produce an astounding range and variety of sound in the water, and the instrument reproduces an almost continuous .series of grunts, roars, croaks, whistles and rasping squeaks. 18. BODY lEMFERArURE It is generally a.ssumed that true fishes are cold-blooded, and that the body temperature is that of the surrounding water. It is certainly true that a fish can live comfortably within only a rather narrow range of temperature, and that any sudden fairly great change results in di.scomfort and even death. On the other hand, the author has observed that many fishes after a struggle on a line, develop a body temperature several degrees higher than that of the water, and that it is those fishes which appear to have most blood which show the greatest increase. It is possible that most vigorous game fishes exhibit this character. 19. COLOUR It surprises most people to learn that fishes are the most brilliant of all creatures, and that they can show an astounding range and variety of colour. This is due to the presence in the skin (in which are the scales) of millions of pigment cells termed Chromatophores, with a wide variety of pigment granules. These Chromato- phores are clastic bodies which can expand wide open or contract so as to be closed almost completely, and in that fashion shades and colours may blaze up, fade, or even disappear. With these cells are innumerable fine shiny plates of a substance guanin which not only sets off the tints but also gives the silvery effect seen in many fishes. It also surprises many to learn that more easily and widely than any chameleon, fishes can vary their colour and markings, and it is not uncommon to find that these differ from night to day and markedly according to the environment. Fishes of reefs and weeds are notably variable (see CLINIDAE, No. 977 on). It has been established that in many fishes colour change is controlled by sight, and that blind fishes are unable to bring about colour adaptation to surroundings, while Chromatophores are developed by light stimulation. Ordinary fishes are normally silvery below, and this shows markedly in Flat-fishes (No. 299 on), the lower surface being white and the upper pigmented. If the bottom of a tank be constantly illuminated, however, a Flat-fish living there develops pigment cells on the blind side also. Some systematists attempt to discredit colour as a factor in differentiation, and advocate that reliance be placed only on form and structure. That does apply sometimes, but there are nevertheless numerous cases where differentiation is based, and can be based, only on colour. There are groups of species almost exactly similar in form and structure, which differ one from the other by constant pattern and colour wherever they may be found, over even vast areas of the seas and in differing environment. Many small reef, rock or weed haunting shore fishes exhibit a wide range of pattern and colour, but the author has observed that in many cases just before death most assume what may be termed a standard pattern in markings and hues. The same thing happens as a rule if these fishes be kept alive in water for 5-10 minutes. A number of differently marked fishes visibly change and soon look all alike. Whatever may be the justification for recommending that colour be disregarded as a scientific factor in the classification of fishes, its esthetic significance cannot be ignored. There is hardly anyone who is not stirred by the almost incredible beauty and brilliance of a living fish, for even the most drab exhibits iridescence. Fishes show emotions mainly 32 GENERAL NOTES ABOUT FISHES by colour, and a fish when startled can exhibit a most surprising range of hues in a few seconds. Apparently most fishes go darker when angry or prepared to fight a rival, but arc lighter when startled, and healthy fishes are in general more brilliantly coloured than those which are ailing. The terms Black in the face", White as a sheet " and “ Off-colour " appear to have been anticipated by fishes. 20. HYBRIDISATION Hybridisation or “Crossing" is not uncommon in the vegetable kingdom. It can occur among animals also, but creatures such as the “ Mule '' or the “ Liger" are not likely ever to appear under natural conditions. The artificial crossing of certain fresh-water fishes has long been an art, mainly in the east, where all sorts o( odd creatures have been produced. There appears to be a general belief that even among our marine fishes hybridisation can take place. In attempting to describe a strange fish, anglers not infrequently make remarks of this type: It was obviously a cross between a ETamba and a Blue-fish.” The name " Bastard Galjocn " has the same implication. There is, however, no evidence whatever that any such phenomenon occurs among oiir marine fishes. 21. SUBSTANCES POISONOUS UO FISHES Certain substances have a powerful effect on fishes and disable or kill them, so that when distillery or other factory effluents are run into a river, fishes and most other creatures in the lower reaches may be entirely destroyed. Even low concentrations of' some compounds appear to paralyse respiration, and to work a bucket of lime into the top of a pool in a river and to eolleet the disabled fishes at the outlet below has long been one resort of the poaeher. Quite a low pereentage of certain chemicals in the water incapacitates or kills fishes, both fresh-water and marine, and in fairly rceent time, eertain vegetable poisons, well known as insecticides, have been found most effective for fishes. Mexican Cube-root and Iderris-root worked into water appear to paralyse respiration and fishes are easily captured. This method is now widely employed in eollecting and yields rich results. In particular, small fishes harcily ever seen are obtained with mueh less effort and with more eertainty than by any other means, but as the poison does not act immediately it must be used in such fashion that fishes in the poisoned area ean be collected for several hours after applieation. This method has been used suecesstully even m rough surf where the fringe of the water ean be watched for w hat washes out. Where there IS no strong eurrent, a paste containing the poison may be smeared over reefs in deeper water. Most civilised countries prohibit the use of fish poison.s, but while they could completely devastate inland waters, restricted use on the shore ean have very little general effect on the life there. 22. UM)ER\\ATER EXPLOSIONS It has long been the common belief that detonations under the water have a devastating effect on all life even in the sea. and in many eountries the use of explosives is prohibited by law. When even a moderate sized bomb or depth charge is exploded at or near a reef, or among a shoal of fishes, numbers are killed or stunned. In certain areas fishes too small to catch cvn lines, or which, sheltering among rocks, cannot be netted, are available to the scientist only via explosives, for when currents interfere, poisons are not effective, In restricted waters such as ponds or lakes, explosives unquestionably work great havoc, and one considerable blast has been shown to kill all fishes and most other creatures also. But recent carefully controlled experiments have yielded rather surprising results in the matter of submarine explosions. It has been found that a blast of such intensity as to disable a submarine has no effect on fishes more than 200 feet away, and that Mollusea such as oysters more than .vO feet away from the explosion centre are apparently unharmed. It is curious that the effect is the same whatever the amount of explosive employed, for there is little difference in general effect on marine life whether 10 lbs or _.000 lbs. of dynamite be detonated. A shock powerful enough to be felt on a boat 10 miles away had no observable effect whatsoever on fishes only 250 feet away from the explosion. When fishes are killed by detonation in deep water, many are carried to the surface, but the majority do not rise at all. In one larae inlet much fished by both line and nets of various types, considerable charges of dynamite were exploded under water daily for some months. Records show that the average catches of the commercial fishermen there were not adversely affected during or since that time. The author's own experiments have shown that fishes which have no air-bladder are much less sensitive to explosions than others. 23. NUMBER.S OF SPECIE.S There are about 21,000 known species of fishes, many more marine than fresh-water. The majority of species are found fairly close to the shore, in bays and lengthy coast-lines of varied nature such as the East Indies h’robably more than a hundred new species are discovered every year. PRESERVATION AND DESPATCH OF FISHES Those not specially interested in more than just preserving material should merely drop the specimen into methylated spirits, but better into formalin solution, prepared by mixing the concentrated formalin with about 6 parts of water ; sea-water will do. After 2-10 days pack as directed below. While material so preserved is often u.seful and important it must be emphasised that fishes properly set out with fins distended arc of very much greater value in every way. Those who are prepared to as.sist in this manner will be repaid by the better appearance of the specimens they collect. Many will evolve their own techniques, but the directions below will point the way. 1. SIVI.4I.L FISHES. If alive, drop into a mixture of equal parts of methylated spirits and water for 5 minutes, then transfer to dilute formalin (I concentrated formalin to 6 water). By this method the fish sets itself quite well. Leave for 2-10 days. If the fish is already dead endeavour to set as described in 2 below. 2. IMEniUM FISHES. When dead, but as fresh as possible, place better side down on a smooth board. By means of pins set all fins fully extended. Try to prevent the head from turning up. Leave 6-24 hours in the shade, then transfer to dilute formalin for 4-10 days. A fish sets more rapidly if dilute formalin is poured over the body after pinning out. 3. EAK(;E FISHE.S. These arc a problem. In winter packed in a box with paper or sawdust moistened with dilute formalin they usually stand Journeys of up to 4 days. Otherwise it is safest to skin the fish, leaving head and gills intact, roll up and immerse in dilute formalin for a week. DESPATCH. Small fishes should be wrapped carefully in moist cotton wool or soft damp paper and packed in a tin with press-in lid. Send by post, O.H.M.S., as below. Other fishes should if possible be wrapped in damp cloth, otherwise damp paper, and packed in a tin or box, the more nearly airtight the better. Pack fairly tightly to prevent movement which causes damage. It is safest to fasten each specimen to the bottom of a Hat box by tacking strips of cloth across it, then filling with damp straw or sawdust. Parcels marked “ O.H.M.S. Natural History Specimens” travel free by post if sent to the Albany Museum, Grahamstown. Otherwise send specimens by passenger train. Containers and preservatives are usually supplied by Museums. They may always be obtained on application to the Department of Ichthyology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown. NOTE. On no account use grass or leaves as packing as they usually ferment and may heat up so much as to ruin the specimens. It does specimens no harm to be left even months in dilute formalin. Detailed colour notes, better still an outline colour sketch, made from a fresh specimen would be of great scientific value. NEUTRAL FORMALIN SOLUTION FOR PERMANENT PRESERVATION Although one of the best preservatives. Formalin solution suffers from the disadvantage of becoming quite strongly acid with time, which for permanent preservation is undesirable. This may be prevented by simple treatment, using one or other of the 2 alternatives below. A. To 1 pint concentrated Formalin add 2 oz. ordinary Hexamine and 6 pints water. B. To 1 pint concentrated Formalin add 5 pints water and 3 oz. concentrated ammonia solution. Either solution then contains about 5% formaldehyde, is approximately neutral (pH 7.5-8), and in the average closed containers will remain neutral for years. Metal screw tops of glass jars rapidly corrode with formalin solutions of any kind. If, however, the top is securely screwed home against the rubber ring, and the bottle inverted, this neutral formalin solution does not corrode the ordinary zinc screw caps. 33 3 HOW TO IDENTIFY A FISH 1. SHARK OR RAY For Sharks turn to No. 1, and use figures, noting teeth. If necessary work through keys from the beginning. For Rays do the same from No. 58. 2. FISHES OF ABNORMAL SHAPE. Use the illustrations. 3. FISHES OF NORMAL SHAPE These present the most difficulty. Some may prefer a quick hunt througl'* illustratiotis, but the soundest method is to employ the main Key (see p. 465). You will master its fundametrtiik ''i 1‘^ss than an liour, and there¬ after by its aid you should be able to track any of our fishes within a few min rites. If you are sure of your counts and manipulation and cannot track the fish, it may be new to South Africa or even to science. M A KE EVERY EFFORT to send it to this Department of Ichthyology or to the nearest Mnseum. ANGLERS’ UNIVERSAL TIDE TABLE FOR SOUTH AFRICA This table gives the APPROXIM.ATE AVER.AGE times of LOW WATER for South Africa, ft is necessary to know the day of New or Full Moon, which may be ascertained IVom almost any calendar. TIMES GIVEN ARE ALL BETWEEN 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. HIGH WATER is about 6] hours earlier or later. Preceding or following LOW WATER is about 12J hours earlier or later. With easterly winds low water is later, with westerly winds it is earlier. In the larger tidal rivers add J-1 hour for the first mile from the sen, and about 15 minutes for each further mile. The chapter on " The Tides ”, p. I.U gives fuller information. Day. Walfish Bay. Cape Peninsula. Mossel Bay to Keimouth, Port St. Johns. Durban . St. Lucia. Loureneo Marques. Knysna Lagoon. 7 . 3.10 2.45 3.30 3.40 3.50 4.5 4.35 4.0 6 . 4.15 3.50 4.35 4.45 4.55 5.10 5 . 40 5.5 5 . . . 5.35 5.10 5.55 6.0 6.5 6.20 6.50 6.15 4 . 6.40 6.15 7.0 7. 10 7.20 7.35 8.5 7.30 . 7.30 7.5 7.50 8.0 8.10 8.25 8 . 55 8.20 8.25 8.0 8.45 8.55 9.5 9.20 9.50 9.15 1 . 9.0 8.30 9.15 9.25 9.35 9.50 10.20 9.45 NEW or FULL MOON 9.35 9.10 9.55 10.5 10. 15 10.30 11.0 10.25 1 . 10. 10 9.45 10.30 10.40 10.50 11.5 1 1 .35 1 1 .0 2 10.45 10.20 1 1 .5 11.15 1 1 .25 1 1 .40 12.10 11.35 3 . 11.25 11.0 1 1 .45 11.55 12.5 12.20 12.50 12.15 4 . 12.5 1 1 .40 12.25 12.35 12.45 1 .0 1 .30 12.55 5 . 12.30 12.5 12.50 1 .0 1 .10 1 .25 1 .55 1.20 6 . 1.10 12.45 1 .30 1 .40 1 .50 2.5 2.35 2.0 ' ■ ■ ■ ■ . 2.10 1.45 2.30 2.40 2.50 3.5 3.35 3.0 34 CLASS CHONDRICHTHYES CARTILAGINOUS FISHES Two sub-classes, EUSELACHII and HOLOCEPHALI, the former having the upper jaw free from the skull, teeth usually separate, and normally 5-7 gill-slits. In the HOLOCEPHALI the upper jaw is a part of the brain case, the teeth in each jaw are united to form a bony plate, and there is only one external gill opening. FEATURES OF A TYPICAL CHONDRICHTH YAN FISH Fig. C. Showing most of the features of a typical fish of this class. Not all of these features are found in any one fish. 1. Dorsal ftn spine. 9. Pelvic fin. 17. Spiracle. 2. First dorsal fin. 10. Clasper of male. 18. Peduncular keel. 3. Second dorsal fin. 11. Pectoral fin. 19. Lower lip. 4. Notch at caudal base above. 12. Gill-slits. 20. Lower labial fold 5. Upper caudal lobe. 13. Mouth. 21. Upper lip. 6. Lower caudal lobe. 14. Nostril. 22. Nasal flap. 7. Notch at caudal base below. 15. Snout. 23. Nasal cirrus. 8. Anal fin. 16. Nictitating membrane. SKIN Sharks and Rays do not have overlapping scales like those of most bony fishes. Instead there are usually in the skin rather small dermal denticles, which are of various sizes and shapes ranging from tiny plain studs to highly spinate or complex plates, sometimes with elaborate superstructures, even mushroom-like. It is those dermal denticles which give shark-skin its roughness and which render it useful as a covering for handles where a firm grasp is essential. Some fishes in this class have enlarged spiny bony plates known as bucklers, most abundant in females. 35 36 CARTILAGINOUS FISHES TEEIH AND JAWS The main cleavage in Chondrichlhyan fishes between the Euselachii and the Holocephali is that the upper jaw of the former is not fused with the brain case, whereas that of the latter is firmly attached. It is generally accepted that the teeth of Sharks are modified dermal denticles. In the emhryo the denticles of the skin are continuous and identical with those over the jaws, and the latter become differentiated into teeth after the lips develop. In Chondrichthyes the teeth are never embedded in the jaws but are in the gums, and in the live fish are free from the jaws. There is wide variation in the teeth of Sharks, and the nature of the teeth in any species is some expression of its way of life. Predaceous and aggressive forms normally bear teeth which penetrate and cut llesh easily, while less active types have blunt teeth, usually as a pavement, better adapted to crushing mollusca. It is easy to see that all the rows of blunt pavement-like teeth in the jaws of that type of Shark are used at once, whereas in the more predaceous forms there is normally a single erect outer row with several inner overlapping depressed series. Examination of the jaws of a dead Shark of the latter kind might lead one to conclude that the external series alone is functional, as that stands erect while the others are packed neatly away behind. In reality, however, when such a Shark bites, it shoots out both jaws, and in that process the inner teeth also become erect and functional. The author can with feeling testify that a glimpse at close quarters of the questing, protruding jaws of a large Yellow Shark (No. 25), bristling with long fangs, is a sight never to be forgotten. It may be noted that the spines of certain of the Diodontidae (Spiny Blaasops or Porcupine Fishes, No. IlSI on) behave in a similar manner. Normally flat against the body they become erect when the fish is inllated and distended. The nature of the teeth is probably the most important single diagnostic character in Chondrichthyes, and a species may sometimes immediately and certainly be identified from a single tooth. SPIRACLE Many Chondrichthyan fishes have an opening of varying size, normally situated behind the eye, known as a Spiracle. Absent or vestigial in many free swimming active types, it reaches its greatest functional development in the less active bottom dwelling forms to whom it is essential in respiration. The strong current which issues periodically from the spiracles of a large Ray may easily be felt by hand. The spiracle is generally accepted as being the remains of a gill-slit of ancestral forms. SPIRAL \ ALVE An integral part of the intestinal canal of all Chondrichthyan fishes, and ruditnentary in certain other types, is a spiral valve. This may be found on examining the intestines of a Shark, w hen it shows as a firm, slightly purplish expansion of some extent clearly visible by contrast with the uniform lighter coloured intestine. In this valve the aliments are constricted and forced to rotate, covering a much greater area of the inner absorptive lining of the intestine than by merely passing through without such deviation. It may be noted that there are no pyloric caeca and no air bladder in this class. CLASPERS: REPRODUCTION On the inner side of each pelvic fin of the male is a long fleshy projection of varied shape. These are used as claspers in copulation, for reproduction is by internal fertilisation in this class. Some forms arc viviparous, others oviparous, the egg cases being horny, mostly sub-quadrangular and usually with projections or tendrils at the corners. The young do not go through larval stages characteristic of many Bony Fishes, but emerge some¬ thing like, though rarely exactly identical with the adult, for growth changes almost always occur. .NICTITATING MEMBRANE Some Sharks have a lower membrane which can move up and cover the eye, functioning much like our upper eyelid. This is termed a nictitating membrane. When a large live Shark winks in this way the effect is distinctly sinister. Some bottom dwelling Rays have a flap extending over the pupil from above, which does not appear to be movable, but may act as a protection from light when the fish is in shallow water. As most such fishes obtain food by burying all of themselves except the eyes, this flap may also serve to conceal the otherwise relatively conspicuous pupil. SHARKS 37 SUB-CLASS EUSELACHII SHARKS AND RAYS These fishes have no true bone in the skeleton, which is cartilaginous, mainly soft, but part may be hardened by calcification. Gill openings separate, normally slit-like. Intestine with a spiral valve. Males with external sexual organs, termed “ claspcrs ”, attached to the pelvic fins. No ordinary scales, skin usually with denticles of some form on dermal plates, mostly small. A sense of smell well developed, of primary importance in securing food. Many groups of Sharks and Rays are far from simple to classify, as there are relatively few external features on which distinction may be based, and those sometimes vary in puzzling fashion. Colour is of limited assistance in these fishes as mostly they are drab and uniform, often variable. From the few species it has been possible to study intensively it appears likely that most undergo changes with growth, for the shape of the body, the position of fins, the degree of spination and other features the systematist relies upon, may all change from the young to the adult. When the adult is large it is usually not often captured. Sometimes only adults are known; in other cases available specimens are obviously juveniles of an unknown adult. In only few cases have full stadia from birth to the full adult form been examined, for hardly any Museum can provide adequate storage for complete specimens of large Sharks and Rays. Information about them is derived largely from distorted or even partly decomposed specimens on the shore. Their bodies have little rigidity, and out of the water are distorted, especially in large specimens. In the Indo-Pacific region about 180 Sharks and 120 Ray-like fishes are at present recognised, of which about one-third reach our shores. When adequate material is studied by competent workers it is likely that the numerous species in large groups will be drastically reduced. Only 20 years ago 15 species of Raia Linn, were accepted as present in our waters, but in this work only 9 are recognised. While still a great force in the seas, .Sharks and Rays are thought to have diminished in numbers in recent geological time. Some existing forms are highly specialised or even degenerate, and would probably not survive rapid environmental change. Sharks are much dreaded, also Rays with poisoned spines, though tales are often exaggerated, for only a few species of Sharks will attack man, and most Rays are timid and inoffensive. Nevertheless, it is best to be cautious about coming into close proximity with any large Shark or Ray. While man-eaters are not abundant in our waters they are present, and anyone who ventures even thigh-deep in the open sea without caution, does so at risk of a horrible death. Illustrations of Sharks biting usually show the animal on its side with quite a benevolent expression, with the mouth open by movement of the lower Jaw, and the upper still Hush with the snout. Reality is far more horrible. The upper jaw also shoots out, the inner teeth become erect in both jaws, and the snout forms a grotesque pointed hood over this projecting fang-lined cavity of horror, which can snap shut with bone-shearing force. When the ” Nova Scotia " was torpedoed overnight otf Delagoa Bay in the last war, mortality from Sharks was high, and legless bodies of men remained floating in life belts. Sailors in particular hate and dread Sharks and kill them whenever they can, or even liberate them alive but mutilated. One method they employ is to heat a whole pumpkin or melon in boiling water. This thrown to a following Shark is often swallowed whole, when the internal heat kills the Shark. Recently it has been found that copper acetate diffusing in the water repels Sharks. Mixed with certain blue dyes it is even more effective, and anyone in the water bearing tablets of the preparation is reasonably safe from attacks by Sharks. It is stated to repel crocodiles also. An impregnated bathing costume would be a great comfort, were it not that this chemical is an irritant poison. The Eusdachii fall into six orders: A. Anal fin present. 1. 6-7 gill-slits . 2. 5 gill-slits . B. No anal fin. 1. Gill-slits lateral. (a) Snout normal, not saw-like. (.v) Pectorals normal ... (j) Pectorals flattened, expanded (b) Snout produced, saw-like 2. Gill-slits ventral Diphspondyli (1-3) Asterospondyli (4—43) Cyclospondy/i (44-54) Sqiiatinae (55) Pristiophorae (56-57) Rajae (58-92) 38 SHARKS— Family HEPTRANCHI DAE ORDER DIPLOSPONDYLI (1-3) One dorsal fin. 6 or 7 gill slits. Rather primitive fishes, viviparous. Not many species, ot the 2 known families only one in our area. Family HEPTR ANCHI D AE Small dorsal far back. No nictitating membrane. No groove at caudal base. All warm seas. Only few genera, 2 in our area, Hexanchus with 6, Hcptranchias with 7 gill-slits. 1. HEXANCHUS GRISEUS (Bonnaterre). Bullshark, Bulldog, or Bulldog Shark (Trawlers). Literature L 3, 296, 526, 580, 655, 697. Fig. I. HEXASCHIS GR/SELS (Bonn,), Actual length 5 ft. Body largely cylindrical. Head noticeably thick and heavy. Upper teeth triangular, sharp, lower coarsely serrated. 1st gill-slit widest, last in front of pectoral base. Grey-brown to slaty, grading to paler below . Attains 25 ft. Found in all warm seas down to 200 fathoms, reaches as far south as Mossel Bay. Not abundant. Doubtful if attacks man. Genus Heptranchias Rafinesque, genotype Squalus cinereus Gmelin. Body somewhat compressed. 7 gill- slits. Two closely related species in our area. The liver of these fishes is stated to be toxic and should not be eaten. A. No median pointed tooth in upper jaw ... ... ... ... ... ... cepedianus (2) B. A median pointed tooth in upper jaw ... ... ... ... ... ... ... pectorosus (3) 2. HEPTR.ANCHl.AS CEPEDI.ANUS (Peron). [Sotidmw.s indicits .Agas. Sotorhynchus or Hcptranchias platycephahis Garman.] Cow-Shark or Seven-gill Shark. Literature L 4, 328, 697. Fig. 2. HEPTRANCHIAS CEPEDIANUS (Peron). Actual length 6 ft. Head rather broad and fiat. Mouth wide. Teeth as shown, with no median tooth in upper jaw. Spiracle small. Sandy grey with dark and light spots, lighter below. Spots sometimes rust coloured. Attains 10 ft. In all warm seas down to 200 fathoms, in our area known from Algoa Bay eastwards. Believed to be dangerous, rather rare. SHARKS— Family HETERO DOSTI DAE 39 3. HEPl’RANCHIAS PECIOROSUS (Carman). Cow-Shark or Seven-gill Shark. Literature L 3, 92, 290, 360, 697. Closely related to No. 2, differs mainly in having a median tooth in the upper jaw, and median tooth of lower jaw each without a cusp on the top at centre. Several enlarged oval plates on upper edge of tail. Grey- brown to dark-brown above with fine obscure spotting, paler below. Believed to attack man. Not very common. Attains 10 ft. An Indo-Pacific species reaching as far south as Algoa Bay, surface to 200 fathoms. ORDER ASTEROSPONDYLI (4-43) TYPICAL SHARKS 2 dorsal fins. 5 gill-slits. Anal fin present. Most living Sharks fall here. 10 families in our area. Kky to thh Famii.ies A. A strong spine before each dorsal . B. No dorsal spine. 1. Nictitating membrane present. (a) Head normal (h) Head hammer shaped . . 2. Nictitating membrane absent. (a) Tail as long as body and colour uniform . . (h) Tail not as long as body; or if as long, body spotted or barred, (i) Last gill-slit clearly in front of pectoral. ix) Gill-slits almost pectoral length (j) Gill-slits about half pectoral length. (a) No keel on peduncle . . (/9) A keel on peduncle (ii) Last gill-slit over or behind pectoral origin. (.v) One or more keels each side of peduncle (_v) Peduncle not keeled. (a) Oronasal grooves present ()3) Oronasal grooves absent Heterodonlidae (4) Galeorhinidae (5-20) Sphyrnidae (21) Alopiidae (22) Halsydridae (23) Carchariidae (24-25) Isuridae (26-28) Rhincodontidae (29) Orectolohidae (30-33) Scyliorhinidae (34-43) Family HETERODONTIDAE Body short, robust in front, head elevated. 2 dorsals, each with a strong spine in front. Oronasal grooves present. Spiracle small, below eye. Oviparous, egg case with 2 long tendrils. Small primitive Sharks of the tropical Indo-Pacific, only one genus, Heterodontus Blainville, genotype Sc/uedus phillipi Schn., with few species, possibly 2 in our waters. (For 4a see Appendix.) 4. HETERODONTUS JAPOMCUS Dumeril. [ffeterodonlus honae-spid OgUby, Hetero- dontus phillipi Schn.) Port Jackson Shark (General). Bullhead (Australia). Literature L 3, 697. Mouth small with thick labial folds. Teeth small, conical in front, molariform behind, in bands in each jaw. Anal small. Brown or rusty- red with cloudy markings. Usually a dark bar on head through eye. Attains 5 ft. A harmless, primitive type living mainly on shell-fish, occurs about Australasia, only once found in our area. Fig. 4. HETERODONTUS JAPOMCUS Dum., showing teeth. After Whitley. 40 SHARKS— Family GALEORHIN! DAE Family GALEORHINIDAE Elongate body with depressed head of normal shape. Nictitating membrane present. Spiracle small or absent. 2 dorsal fins. Anal fin present. No keel on caudal peduncle. Most living Sharks kill here. As the shape changes with growth, and as not all stadia are known for more than a few species, positive identification is olten difficult even for the expert. The teeth are perhaps the most important character in diagnosis in this group. These are typical Sharks of warm seas, some of commercial significance as the flesh is palatable, the fins of some are valued as food, and the skin is useful for polishing wood. The liver yields oil rich in Vitamin A. 7 genera in our area. A. Teeth more or less triangular, erect, sharp. I. Spiracles absent. (a) Edges of teeth all or partly strongly serrate (i) 1st dorsal nearer pectorals than pehics (Li) 1st dorsal nearer pelvics than pectorals (h) Edges of teeth smooth or almost so... 2. Small spiracles present. (a) Distinct notch at upper base of caudal (h) No notch at upper base of caudal ... B. Teeth numerous in flat pavement. 1. Oronasal grooves present 2. No oronasal grooves present Eiihiniia (ilypliis Scoliodon (1 Gah’oeert/o (iaicorliinus (5 9) (10) 1-1.1) (14) (15) SivlHoya/ciis (16) Musldus ( I 7 20) Genus Eulaniia Gill, genotype Carcharias lamia Risso. Head normal, rather wide, somewhat depressed. Spiracles absent. Nictitating membrane present. .A notch at base of tail above. Triangular teeth with serrated edges, more marked in adults. Rather slender shapely Sharks, found in all but the coldest seas, some entering rivers and some at home in even fresh water. Viviparous, some attaining a considerable size. These typical Sharks are often infested with Remoras (Nos. 945-949), and are often accompanied also by the Pilot f ish (No. 535). The Sharks themselves are scavengers and given to following ships, eating the refuse, and they come close inshore and frequent estuaries and harbours feeding on scraps. Fairly numerous species, some probably “ artificial ”, hence identification is not always easy. 5 species in our area. •A. 2nd dorsal smaller than anal. 1. Fins with dusky or black tips 2. Fins uniform B. 2nd dorsal not markedly smaller than anal. 1. Pectoral tips dusky 2. Pectoral tips not dusky. (а) Width of mouth less than preoral distance... (б) Width of mouth greater than preoral distance limhala (5) ohscura (6) nu'lanopicra (7) dussumicri ( 8 ) lamia (9) 5. EL'L.AMI.A LIMB.AT.A Muller & Henle. [Carcharinus Hmhatus.] Blacktin or Soupfin Shark (Natal), Grey Shark (East London), Spierhaai (Knysna). Tuharao (Canaries). Literature L 3, 170, 328, 652. 655, 697. Fig. 5 EVLAMIA UMBATA M. & H. Actual length 4 ft. SHARKS— Family GALEORHINIDAE 41 Snout rather pointed in profile, rounded from above. 30-34 serrated triangular teeth in each jaw, upper middle teeth rather small. Found in all warm seas, extends along our east coast as far as Mossel Bay, is quite abundant in our area, attains 9 ft. Comes close inshore virtually to the fringe of the surf, also enters estuaries freely and pursues other fishes almost on to the shore. Readily takes a bait and is a fine sporting fish. The flesh of young specimens is good eating and excellent bait. The dorsal fin in particular highly esteemed by the Chinese for soup. Large specimens could inflict serious wounds, but are not known to be dangerous. This is probably the Slipway Grey of Durban. Body a smooth dove-grey. The dusky areas on the tips of the fins vary in extent and intensity, being almost absent in some cases, but the tip of the inner surface of the pectoral is almost always conspicuously dark. 6. EUL.AIVIIA OBSCLRA (Le Sueur). [C arcluinnus ohscums.] Brown Shark, Faqueita or Tiburon (Canaries). Literature L 3, 142, 655, 697. Snout rather pointed in profile. 27-30 serrated triangular teeth in each jaw, those in lower jaw more slender. 2nd dorsal slightly smaller than anal. Grey-brown to brown above, lighter below. Regarded as an Atlantic warm water form, is not uncommon off-shore as far south as Dassen Island. Attains 12 ft., possibly dangerous. Closely related to No. 5, but larger and more robust in body. Sometimes follows trawlers, feeding on offal and fishes that escape from the net. 7. FUI.A.MI.A MFL.ANOP I FR.A (Quoy & Gaimard). [Carcharinus melanopterus]. Black Shark (Natal), Nilow (West Africa). Literature L 92, 328, 655, 697. Fig. 7. EULAMIA MELANOPTERA (Q. & G.). Actual length 5 ft. Snout moderately pointed in profile, rounded viewed from above. About 25 serrated triangular teeth in each jaw. Grey-black above, tips of fins black. Attains 10 ft. Found in most warm seas, known from Natal but not often seen in our area. Fights well when hooked. Probably dangerous. 42 SHARKS— Family GALEORHINIDAE 8. EULAMIA DUSSUMIERl (Muller & Henie). [Carcharinus dussumicri.] Literature L 3, 328, 697. Fig. 9. EULAMIA LAMIA (Blnvlle.). Original, but after Peters. Snout rather rounded. About 30 serrated triangular teeth in each jaw. Grey to bluish above, lighter below. Attains at least 7 ft. In all warm seas, enters rivers freely, at home in fresh water. A ferocious Shark, attacks bathers and inflicts frightful wounds. In our area known only from the coastal part of the Zambesi. Genus Glyphis Agassiz, genotype Glyphis hastalis Agas. Head rather wide, somewhat depressed, normal. Body fairly slender. Spiracles absent. Nictitating membrane present. A notch at base of tail above and below Curved triangular teeth with serrated edges, bases broad. Only one not very abundant species found in all tropical and temperate seas. 10. GLYPHIS GL.\UCUS (Linnaeus). [Carcharinus ghucus. Carcharinus mackiei P\v\\.\ Janiquin (Canaries), Blue Shark (General), Blue Whaler (Australia). Literature L 3, 655, 697. Fig, 8. EULAMIA DUSSUMIERl (M. & H.). After Day. Fairly slender body. Snout rather long, rounded from above. About 25 serrated triangular teeth in each jaw. Attains 7 ft. An Indo-Pacific warm water species found at Delagoa Bay. Not known to be dangerous. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 9. EULAMIA L.AMI.A (Blainville). [Carcharias gaiiyeticus (M. & H.), Carcharinus zamhcsensis, Peters.] River Shark (General), Mashipuiidu (Zambesi). Literature L 288, 489, 328, 697. Fig. 10. GLYPHIS GLAVCUS (Linn.). Actual length 8 ft SHARKS—Family GALEORHINIDAE 43 Head long, Hat and depressed. 1st dorsal nearer pelvic than pectoral. 27—30 serrated triangular curved teeth in each jaw, those in lower more slender. Deep blue or black above, lighter below. Said to attain 25 ft. Probably dangerous, but rarely come inshore, preferring the open seas, being found in all but the coldest waters. They work havoc among shoal fishes, hunting mainly at night, and are possibly the most quiet and stealthy of all large surface fishes. When hunting they continually move the nictitating membrane up and down. Not uncommon out at sea off our West Coast this Shark is a pest in that when a trawl is being hauled in it will hurl itself at the packed fishes, even coming out of the water on top of the floating “ Cod-end ” and tearing furiously at the net. A pack of these sharks can work great havoc in this manner. It is often necessary to shoot them from the trawlers. Genus Scoliodon Muller & Henie, genotype Carcharicis laticaudus M. & H. Head rather wide and flattened. Snout rather elongate, not very pointed. Spiracles absent. Nictitating membrane present. A notch at base of tail above and below. Triangular teeth with smooth or almost smooth edges. Moderate sized Sharks of all but cold waters, none very large, all harmless. About a dozen species recognised, many quite probably “ artificial ”, difficult to distinguish, 3 in our area. A. 1st dorsal with black edge . . vagalus (11) B. 1st dorsal uniform grey. 1. Pectoral tip reaches beyond front of 1st dorsal . walheehmi (12) 2. Pectoral tip barely reaches front of 1st dorsal . palasorrah (13) 11. SCOLIODON V'AfiATU.S Garman. [Carcharinus vagatus.] Dog Shark. Literature L 14, 526, 697. Head depressed, fairly broad. In upper 25, in lower jaw 23-24 triangular teeth bent outwards, edges not serrated. Mauve-grey above, lighter below, 1st dorsal with black edge. End of caudal dusky. Attains 3 ft. At present known only from the east coast of Africa northwards from Delagoa Bay. Possibly the juvenile of some large Indo-Pacific species. Specimens wanted. 12. SCOLIODON WALBKKILVll (Bleeker). [Carcharinus nalheehmi.] Literature L 3, 328, 697. Snout pointed. Head depressed. 24-28 curved triangular teeth with smooth edges in each jaw. 1st dorsal greyish. Attains 4 ft. A warm water Indo-Pacific form which reaches Natal, but not common in our area. Flesh palatable. Grey to brownish above. 13. .SCOLIODON P.AL.ASOKRAH (Cuvier). [Carcharinus or Scoliodon acutus Rupp. Carcharias crenidens Klunz.] Dog .Shark or Lesser Blue .Shark. Literature L 3, 328, 697. Snout pointed. Head depressed. 25-26 outwardly inclined triangular teeth in each jaw. Outer edges of teeth very finely serrate, other edges smooth. Pectorals and pelvics with light margins. Attains 4 ft. Occurs throughout the Indo-Pacific, found as far south as Durban, not uncommon at Beira. Grey to brownish above. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Galeoccrdo Muller & Henie, genotype Squalus arcticus Faber. Rather elongate body, thickens with age. Snout short, rather rounded. Small spiracle present. Nictitating membrane present. A notch at base of tail above and below. Inclined more or less triangular teeth with strongly serrated edges. 2nd dorsal and anal fins rather small. Dangerous large Sharks of warm seas, few species, probably only one, rather variable, changing in markings and form with growth. 44 SHARKS— Family GALEORHIN/DAE 14. GALEOCERDO CUVIER (Le Seiier). [Galeocenh arcticus Faber, Gcileocerdo tigrinus M. & H., Galeo- cerdo rayneri McD. & B.] Tiger Shark. Literature L 3, 170, 328, 655, 697. Plate 1, p. 49, juvenile and adult. Snout short and rounded. 18-20 strongly serrated powerful teeth in each jaw. The young are strongly marked, adults only rarely. Attains 15 ft. and a weight of close on a ton. Found in all warm seas, well known in the tropics, extends south of Durban, not uncommon there. A voracious scavenger which cats almost anything, is one of the most fierce and dangerous of all creatures, not easily frightened and pursues its prey to the shallowest water. A large specimen has been stated to cut a man clean in half with one bite. A 14 ft. specimen taken at Durban had inside it the head and forequarters of a crocodile, the hind leg of a sheep, 3 seagulls, 2 intact 2-lb. tins of green peas and a cigarette tin. (R. H. Robson.) Genus Galeorhinus Blainville, genotype Scfiia/iis galeus Linn. Body rather elongate and slender. Snout fairly short, head depressed. Small spiracle, also nictitating membrane present. No notch at base of tail. Outwardly inclined notched triangular teeth with serrations on outer edges. Upper lobe of tail produced. Sharks of various sizes found in warm seas, only one in our area. All have liver rich in precious vitamins. 15. GALEORHINUS G.\LEUS (Linnaeus). [Galeorhinus eanis Bonap.] Tope, School [Shark, Liver-oil Shark. Literature L 3, 92, 655, 697. Fig. 15. GALEORHINUS CALEUS (Linn.) Actual length 4 ft. Snout rather pointed. 35-45 teeth in each jaw, serrated on outer edge. Eye pupil rounded, greenish. .Attains 6 ft. In all warm seas, occurs along our south and east coa.sts from the surface down to fair depths. Harmless to man, but a great nuisance at times, taking fishes from lines as they are being hauled in. Usually bites well at night. Recently much sought as the liver oil is exceedingly rich in Vitamin .A, forms the basis of an industry in South Africa. The fins are esteemed by the Chinese for making soup. Brownish above. Genus Scylliogaleus Boulenger, only one species. Body rather elongate, somewhat compressed. Head wide, snout broad. Spiracle and nictitating membrane present. No notch at base of tail. Oronasal grooves present. Teeth flat in pavement-like bands. 16. SCYLLIOG.ALEUS QUEKETTI Boulenger. Literature L 3, 47, 697. Fig. 16. SCYLLIOGALEUS QUEKETTI (BIgr.). After Boulenger. SHARKS— Family GALEORHIN! DAE 45 Snout rounded. 38 rows of oval, rounded flattened teeth with ribbed crowns in lower jaw. Pupil of eye an oblique slit. Only one specimen, 14 ins. long, ever found, in shallow water at Umkomaas Mouth, Natal, in 1902. More wanted. Genus Mustelus Lmck, genotype Squalus mustclus Linn. Body elongate, rather slender. Snout long, depressed, rather rounded. Nictitating membrane and spiracle present. No notch at base of tail. No oronasal groove! Teeth small in a pavement. Skin fairly smooth. Small to moderate sized Sharks of temperate to cold waters, living mainly on the bottom of coastal regions to 200 fathoms. Not dangerous. The food is mainly shell-fish and small fishes. The llesh of most species is quite palatable. Sluggish fishes, barely fight when hooked. 4 species in our area, all dull coloured. A. Front of mouth to snout tip longer than mouth width ... ... ... ... manazo (17) B. Front of mouth to snout tip about equal to mouth width. 1. Black spots on body ... ... ... ... ... punctulatus (18) 2. Uniform or white spots only. (a) Ist dorsal origin well behind pectoral axil .. (h) Ist dorsal origin almost above pectoral axil canis (19) mustelus (20) 17. MUSTELUS MANAZO Bleekcr. Hound, Gummy .Shark. Literature L 3, 328, 697. Snout markedly pointed, long. 45-50 rows of rounded rather flattened teeth in a pavement in upper, about 40 similar in lower Jaw. Pupil of eye rounded. Sometimes white spots. Attains 5 ft. An Indo-Paeific species which reaches as far south as Knysna. Very sluggish. 18. MUSTELUS f’UNC'rUL.A IT S Riss. [Mustelus laevis Kor\6.\ Mound, .Spotted Gully Shark, Gummy .Shark, Spear-eye .Shark, Spierhaai, V lekhaai, Sweet-William. Literature L 3, 58, 92, 655, 697. Fig. 18. MUSTELUS PUNCTULATUS (Risso). Actual length 4 ft. Snout moderately pointed, distance from front of mouth to snout tip about equal to mouth width. Teeth smooth, rounded, but hinder tooth in upper jaw' each with small point, 3 points in Juveniles. Pupil of eye rounded. Attains 6 ft. Body uniform grey-brown with black spots. Coastal regions of Indian and Atlantic oceans, not uncommon over most of our area from the Cape eastwards. 46 SHARKS Family SPHRYNIDAE 19. MUSTELHS CAMS (Mitchill). Hound, Caneja or Tollo (West Africa). Literature L 3, 92, 655, 697. Fig. 19. MUSTELUS CAMS (Mitch.). Actual length 4 ft. Snout fairly pointed, distance from front of mouth to snout tip equal to mouth width. 50 -55 rows of teeth in each pavement, all rounded tops. Pupil of eye horizontally elongated. Either uniform grey or with white spots. Attains 6 ft. An Atlantic species found over most of our area to Natal, in coastal waters down to 200 fathoms. 20. .MUSTELUS MUSTELUS (Linnaeus). Hound, .Jaqueta or Tollo (Canaries). Literature L 244, 655, 697. Very closely related to No. 19, but front of the 1st dorsal is further forward, just about above axil of pectoral. Greyish to brown-grey above, often with whitish spots, lighter below. Fins usually light marginally. Attains 3 ft. An Atlantic species which has colonised the south coast of .Africa as far as Natal. Not abundant in our area. Family SPHYRMDAE HAMMERHEAD SHARKS. MALLET SHARKS Fantastic Sharks which have the head flattened in front and expanded sideways, so as to resemble a double hammer, but in the lesser expanded forms is like a bean, with eyes at each extremity of the expansions. Spiracles absent. Nictitating membrane present. Changes occur with growth. .All from warm seas, about 6 species are rather doubtfully recognised, differentiated by the varying shape of the head. It is possible that when adequate material is available only one or two species will be accepted. There is as yet no satisfactory explanation of the abnormal head. Monstrosities of this type are produced by the action of certain chemicals on the larval forms of many species of fishes, but none live to be adult. Large Hammerheads are most ferocious and fearless and do not hesitate to attack boats. In the tropics they are rightly much feared as most dangerous creatures. Only one genus Sphyrna Rafinesque with one species in our area. 21. SPHYRN.A ZYG.AEN.Y (Linnaeus). [Zy^aeiui or Sphyrna malleus Risso.l Hammerhead Shark, Hammerkophaai, Balance Fish (Australia), Cornuda (West Africa). Literature L 3, 92, 328, 655. 697. Fig. 21. SPHYRS’A ZYGAENA (Linn.). Actual length 8 ft. SHARKS— Families ALOPUDAE and HALS YDRJ DAE 47 Body fairly long and slender, not very compressed. Teeth rather oblique, outer edges nearly straight, notched, serrated only in the young. Occurs in all warm seas, known in our area from the Cape eastwards. Said to attain over 20 ft. Large specimens, fortunately rare in our waters, are among the most dreaded of all marine creatures. They are ferocious, fearless and voracious, and fight vigorously when hooked. Family ALOPHDAE Caudal very greatly enlarged above, about as long as rest of body, which is torpedo shaped. No nictitating membrane. Spiracles present. A notch at caudal base above. Mouth curved, teeth triangular, edges smooth. Only one genus, Alopias Rafinesque with one species, found in almost all seas. 22. ALOPIAS VULPINUS (Bonnaterre). [Alopias or Alopecias vulpes Gmel., Alopias caudatus Phill., Vulpecida marina Carman.] Fox Shark, Whiptail Shark, Thresher or Thrasher Shark. Literature L 3, 92, 655, 69?' t-ig. 22. ALOPIAS VULPINUS (Bonn.). Actual length 8 ft. Photo Port Elizabeth Museum. Characteristic swift Shark, can never be confused with any other with its uniform body and long tail. Attains at least 15 ft., but has never been known to attack man. Only rarely comes inshore. The long tail is used to panic small fishes so that they may easily be captured. Numbers of this Shark sometimes attack shoals of Sardines. Threshers have been seen chasing single fishes and hitting at them with the tail. This Shark is stated to take part with K iller- Whales in attacks on whales, but positive evidence is lacking. The Thresher occasionally leaps high out of the water, and is a splendid game fish, fighting magnificently when hooked. The colour varies from grey to green or bright blue, but is always uniform without cross-bars. Family HALSYDRIDAK Very great body. Caudal bent well up with notch at base above and a keel each side on peduncle. Small spiracle present. Mouth large, with small conical teeth in bands. No nictitating membrane. Enormous gill- slits, the gill-arches with many projections which function as strainers. Only one genus Halsydrus Fleming, with one species. 23. H.ALSYDRUS .M.WIMUS (Gunner). [Ceiorhinus maximus.] Basking Shark. Literature L 3, 395, 697. Fig. 23. H ALS y DRUS MAXIMUS (Gnr.). Actual length 25 ft. 48 SHARKS— Family CARCHARllDAE Elongate robust body. Snout rather pointed, especially in the young. Mouth large with many small conical teeth. Attains at least 50 ft., some records stating 80 ft. One of the largest existing creatures, certainly among fishes, and is nowhere abundant, probably moving towards extinction. A harmless creature which spends most of its time idling on the surface of all seas, warm and cold. Feeds mainly on minute organisms strained from the water through the sieve-like gills, but will engulf fishes when shoals cannot escape. This huge and rather sluggish creature might be the origin of some of the “ Sea-serpent ” tales. Only dead or ailing specimens ever come inshore and any found stranded should be reported immediately to the nearest Museum. Family CARCHARllDAE Rather elongate body. Snout pointed. Small spiracles present. No nictitating membrane. Caudal not much bent upwards. No lateral keel on peduncle. Mouth large, curve almost pointed in front. Teeth long and slender with a small point each side of ba.se. Rather large Sharks of a few genera of the warmer waters of most oceans. Only one genus in our area. Closely related to the odd Goblin Shark of Japan which has the snout produced into a long point. Genus Carcharius Rafinesque, genotype Carcharias taurus Raf. Snout pointed but not elongated. Gill-openings rather low, all clearly in front of pectoral base. A few somewhat variable species of warm waters, swift and voracious, most dangerous to man. 2 species in our area. A. 30-34 rows of teeth in upper jaw ... ... ... ... ... ... ... tricuspidatus (24) B. 40-45 rows of teeth in upper jaw ... ... ... ... ... ... ... umrus (25) 24. CARCH.4RI,\S TRICUSPID.VTUS Day. [Odonlaspis ameriemus Gnthr., Odontaapis Iricu.spidalus.] Blue Nurse Shark. Literature L 3, 328. 697. Fig. 24. CARCHAR/AS TRICiSPI DATUS I5ay. After Day. Mouth large, sharply curved, with 30—34 rows ot long slender teeth in each jaw. Colour varies from grey to blue above. Attains 20 ft. Ranges widely in the Indo-Pacific. rare in southern waters round Australia, and in our area. Probably a man-eater. Viviparous. The fins are valued and the liver oil is extracted for burning in lamps and for vitamins. 25. C.ARCH.-VRI.AS T.4URUS Rafinesque. [Odontaspis taurus, Carcharias arenarius Ogilby.] Yellow Shark or Ragged Tooth Shark or Brown Shark (S..A.). Grey Nurse Shark (Australia), Sarda (Canaries). Literature L 3, 92, 170. 328, 655, 697. Plate 1, p. 49. Mouth large, sharply curved, with 40-45 rows of long, slender teeth in upper and 37-40 in lower jaw. Colour varies from pale grey to yellow or brown above, lighter below-, sometimes with rusty or dusky spots. Viviparous. Attains 15 ft. Pound in all warm seas, is fortunately not very abundant in our area, as it is one of the most dangerous sharks. A cunning and quiet scavenger which creeps along the bottom towards the shore, and when stationary in even only 4 ft. of water, the largest specimen is hardly visible against a sandy bottom. If an unwary bather approaches within reach there is a savage rush, and usually another fatality. Even if the victim escapes, the terrible teeth cause fearful lacerations. Probably most shallow water attacks in South Africa are due to this Shark which also penetrates far up estuaries. The jaws of a 10 ft. specimen would easily sever a human head or thigh, those of the largest would easily cut a man in half. A serious menace in East Indian and Australian waters. One 8 ft. specimen in Algoa Bay had swallowed an enamel saucepan, another on the Transkei coast contained a kaffir watermelon and a young pig. The liver oil of this species is widely used in lamps, but is now of more value for its vitamin content. The fins are valued for soup. On land the rather shapely body is distorted and appears thick and more clumsy than it really is. PLATE 1 14. Caleocerdo cuvier upper, juvenile, lower, adult, 12 ft. 25. Carcharias taurus, 8 ft. 26. Cardmrodon carc/ninai 12 It. 27. Lamna nasiis. 8 ft. 28. Lsunts f;/aucus. 10 ft. Actual length stated in each case. SHARKS— Family ISURIDAE 49 Family ISURIDAE Body rather torpedo-shaped. Spiracle present or absent. No nictitating membrane. A notch at caudal base above. A keel each side of caudal peduncle. Tail bent well up. Teeth pointed. Labial folds present. Swift voracious and ferocious Sharks, probably among the most dangerous to man, some attaining a great size. The few species all fight gamely when hooked, but few anglers ever bring the larger ones to the gaff. Tales of great runs and broken lines probably originate mostly from the hooking of an Isurid Shark. Only 3 genera. A. Edges of teeth serrate . Carcharodon (26) B. Edges of teeth smooth. 1. Teeth triangular, small cusp each side of base ... ... ... ... ... Lamna (27) 2. Teeth long and slender, no cusps ... . Isurus (28) Genus Carcharodon Smith, genotype Squalus carcharias Linn. Fusiform body with pointed snout. Caudal bent well up with notch at base above and a keel on each side of peduncle. Mouth large. Teeth triangular, serrated. Only one large, swift, widely distributed species, probably the most dreaded of all Sharks. 26. CARCHARODON CARCHARIAS (Linnaeus). [Carcharodon rondeletii M. & H.] Blue-Pointer (Durban), White-Pointer or .Man-eater (General), Uptail, Tommy, White Death .Shark or Death .Shark (Australia), Sarda (Canaries). Literature L 3, 58, 92, 655, 697. Plate 1, p. 49. This species may immediately and with certainty be identified by the large serrated triangular teeth in 5 6 rows, 24 26 in upper, 22-24 in lower jaw, third tooth on each side in upper Jaw abruptly smaller. Labial folds present. Attains 40 ft. and a weight of at least 2 tons. Not uncommon off our shores and widely dis¬ tributed in temperate waters this swift, voracious and ferocious Shark is a terror to all who venture on or in the water. Preferring the open sea, it follows or swims with vessels, consuming edibles which fall overboard. Especially near harbours it comes close inshore and enters estuaries. A 12 ft. specimen can bite a man in two, a 20 ft. specimen can swallow a man whole. Some observers say this Shark prefers fish to other flesh, but eats almost anything, attacking man only by chance and only then becoming a man-eater. This sounds rather speculative and one would prefer not to test it out. This Shark will come close to a boat and snap viciously at an arm overside. An old sailor has told of an 18 ft. monster caught near the eoast during a calm in a fog following heavy rains ashore, which was hooked and finally shot by the captain. Dragged aboard it was eut open and found to have in its stomach the foot of a native, half a small goat, 2 pumpkins, a wieker-covered seent bottle, 2 large fishes quite fresh, a small Shark and unidentifiable oddments. Teeth 5 ins. long have been dredged from the depths, indicating Sharks of 1(K) ft. with Jaws at least 6 ft. across. These monsters may still live in deep water but it is better to believe them extinct. Such a Shark could swallow an ox whole. Genus Lamna Cuvier, genotype Lamna cornuhica Cuv. Robust fusiform body with pointed snout. Caudal well bent up with notch at upper base and a keel each side on peduncle. Mouth large. Teeth triangular, edges smooth, with a small point each side at base. Viviparous, voracious Sharks of temperate waters. Only one speeies in our area. 27. I..\MN.\ N.ASUS ( Bonnaterre). [Lamna cornuhica Cuv.] Porbeagle or Mackerel Shark. Literature L 697. Plate 1, p. 49. In upper Jaw 28, in lower 24 26 triangular teeth with smooth edges and a small point each side at base. Attains 12 ft., found in all oceans mostly in cooler waters. The body is covered with tough smelly mucus. Swift and ferocious, consumes great quantities of fish, causes havoc among shoals of smaller fishes. Almost certainly a man-eater when opportunity offers. Only once found in our area, near Knysna, is probably not uncommon but seldom seen close in. Genus Isurus Rafinesque, genotype Isurus oxyrinchus Raf. Robust fusiform body with pointed snout. Caudal well bent up with notch at base above, and a keel each side on peduncle. Mouth large. Teeth elongated, pointed, smooth. Probably viviparous. Large, fierce and voracious Sharks of not too warm waters, mainly of the Indo-Pacific. A few species have been described but it is here maintained that at most two are valid. The characters supposed to distinguish different species are neither constant nor reliable. 4 50 SHARKS— Families RHINCO DONTIDAE and ORECTOLOBI DAE 28. ISHRL'S GLAUCHS (Muller & Henle). [Isuropsis glaucus, Lanina spa/lanzani Day, Isurus huk-ni Phill., Isurus or Isuropsis mako Whitley.] Blue Pointer, Mako Shark, Snapper Shark, Blue Porpoise Shark. Literature L 3, 655, 697. Plate 1, p. 49. u a ■ ij: r In upper jaw 22-24, in lower 22 long pointed teeth, visible when erect in closed mouth. Attains 15 ft. A fierce and dangerous species, attacking anything that attracts its attention. Has been known to charge a boat repeatedly. A famous angling fish, abundant in Australasian waters, very swift and powertul so that only experienced anglers in good training may hope to kill one. Large Sharks often seen leaping from the water, raising great splashes some distance ofif our shores are almost certainly this species which is known to have that habit. Not often seen close inshore in South Africa. Most so-called " Blue-Pointers taken by our shore anglers are No. 26, the Man-eater. Family RHINCODONTIDAE Enormous size, with robust body and broad, blunt head. Caudal bent well up, with notch at base above, and a keel each side on peduncle, which is the hinder end of a body ridge. Small spiracle present. Mouth large with many small conical recurved teeth. Eye small, no nictitating membrane. A Shark ot the surface in tropical waters. Only one genus, Rhincodon Smith, with one species. 29. RHINCODON TYPUS Smith. [Rhinodon or Rhincodon typiis, Rhinodon or Rhincodon typicus. Whale Shark or Basking Shark. Literature L 58, 92, 697. Fig. 29. RHISCODON TYPUS Smith. After Smith. Robust enormous body. A ridge along the back and 2—3 on each side above, the lower passing into the lateral peduncular keel. Eyes very small. Mouth very large at end of snout. Gill-slits very large. Attains at least 50 ft., probably larger. The figure is that of a relative juvenile only 15 ft. long and shows the fourth gill- slit above the pectoral base, whereas specimens examined recently have the fourth gill-slit just before the pectoral and extending below it. As may be expected in so huge a fish, hardly any two specimens agree in minutiae. About 90 specimens have been recorded during the past 100 years. These enormous creatures are timid and apparently harmless. They lie basking in the surface of warm seas and have several times been killed by steamers at night. They feed mainly upon the smaller life of the ocean but will take larger fishes if the opportunity offers. Only ailina or dead specimens ever come inshore and any found stranded should be reported immediately to the nearest Museum. Usually stated to be greenish black above. Family ORECTOLOBID.AE Rather short body with long tail. Spiracles present. Eyes small, nictitating membrane absent. Teeth small, compressed. Head narrow. No notch at base of tail. Folds on both lips. In this family are assembled curious Sharks of many different types, sizes and habits. All seem to be relatively gentle creatures, though some attain a length of 12 ft. Some are viviparous, some oviparous, and a few frequent deeper water. Many are strikingly marked and some bear skinny fringes to assist in concealment among weeds. Only 2 genera in our area. A. Caudal about 1 total length ... . . Stcgostoma (30) B. Caudal about f total length . Chiloscy/lium (3! 33) Genus Stegostoma Muller & Henle, genotype Squalus fasciatus Herm. Body slender and compressed, tail about i total length. Snout short and blunt. Mouth little arched, 20-30 small teeth in each jaw. Oronasal grooves present. Nasal flaps united. Gill-openings small. Only one widely distributed oviparous species. SHARKS— Family ORECTOLOBl DAE 51 30. STEGOSTOMA FASCIATUM (Hermann). [Stef^ostoma tigrinum Bonn.] Zebra Shark. Leopard Shark. Monkey-mouth (India). Literature L 3, 275, 328, 697. Plate 2, p. 60, adult. rig. -to. STEGOSTOMA EASCIATU M (Urmn.). Juvenile at 20 ins. Egg case inset. 2nd dorsal very small. Spiracle close behind eye. A ridge along the back. Colour changes somewhat with age, the cross-bars being less obvious, and .sometimes there are large black or brown spots and no bars. Attains II ft. Found throughout the warmer waters of the Indo-Pacific. Sluggish and harmless to man, lives mainly on crustaceans and molluscs. In our area occurs from Algoa Bay eastwards, not common. Genus Chiloscylliuni Muller & Henle, genotype Scyllium plagiosum Benn. Body elongate, tail total length. Snout short and blunt. Teeth small, compressed, several series functional. Mouth little arched. Spiracle below eye. A few oviparous small strikingly marked Sharks of the Indo-Pacific, mostly from shallow water, none found in Australian waters. 3 species in our area. A. Only one ridge along back. 1. Dark cross-bars and many light spots 2. Dark cross-bars, no marked white spots ... B. 3 ridges along back . plagiosum (31) g rise urn f32) indicum (33) 31. ClllLO.SCYLLlU.M Pl.AGlO.SUM (Bennett). [Hemiscydlium plagiosum.] Catshark. Literature L 296, 697. Hig. 31. CHILOSCYLLIUM PLAGIOSUM (Bonn.). After Regan. Rather slender body. Mouth little arched, with many minute tricuspid teeth. Nasal flaps with cirrus. A ridge along middle of back. Colour rather variable, sometimes blue spots. Attains 28 ins. Widely distributed in warm shallow water of the Indo-Pacific. Rare in our area. 32. CTIII.OSCA'LLIUM GRISEL'M (Muller & Henle). [HemiscylHum griseum.] Catshark. Literature L 526, 697. V-. 32 Fig. 32. CHILOSCYLLIU.M GRISEUM (M. & H.). After Day. Slender body. Mouth little arched with about 30 series of small teeth in each jaw. Nasal flaps with cirrus. A ridge along middle of back. Colour somewhat variable, fades with age. Attains 2 ft. Widely distributed in warm shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific. Very sluggish and tame, easily caught by hand. Rare in our area. 52 SHARKS— Family SCYLIORHINl DAE 33. CHILOSCYLLIUM INDICUM (Gunther). [Hemiscyllium indicum. Hcmiscylliimi colax Meus.) Catshark. Literature L 92, 484, 697. Fig. .33. CHILOSCYLLIUM INDICUM (Gunther). After Regan. Slender body. Mouth little arched, with about 30 small pointed teeth in each jaw. Nasal flaps with cirrus. Spiracle close behind eye. 3 rough ridges along the back. Spots usually red-brown. Attains 20 ins. Found in shallow warm waters of the Indo-Pacific. Rare in our area. Family SCYLIORHINIDAE LAZY SHARKS. SKAAMOOGS Elongate body with tail hardly bent up and no notch at base. Spiracles present. Nictitating membrane absent. The iridal flap may be contracted so that the pupil of the eye shows as a slit sloping forwards and downwards. Teeth moderate or small, usually tricuspid. Oviparous. The egg cases are usually rectangular, with a tendril at each corner for attachment to weeds. (See Plate 2, p. 60.) Mostly slow, sluggish, small in¬ offensive ground Sharks, mainly inshore, some in deeper waters. They may often be seen at night at low tide in the shallows. The name “ Skaamoog ” (Shy Eye) is given to some of these fishes because when caught they fold the tail over the head, hiding the eyes. During the day they hide in weeds. Most of them eat anything available. 6 genera in our area. A. Belly inflatable ... ... ,,, ... Cephaloscyllium (34) B. Belly not inflatable. 1. Eold on lower lip only. (a) A cirrus on front nasal flap . Poroderma (35-37) (h) No cirrus on front nasal flap . Scvliorltintis (38) 2. Fold on each lip round angle of mouth. (a) Snout U-2i times eye. (i) Nasal flaps united ... (ii) Nasal flaps separate (b) Snout 3-31 times eye ... 3. No fold on either lip ... Haphhlephanis (39) Halaelurus (40) Pentcmchus (41) Holohalaelurus (42-43) Genus Cephaloscyllium Gill, genotype Scyllium laticeps Dum. Head wide and depressed. Belly inflatable. Teeth with 3-5 cusps, mouth wide, no oronasal grooves. A few curious small Sharks of the Indo-Pacific. Only one species in our area. 34. CEPH.ALOSCYLLIL'M SUFFLANS (Regan). [Scylliorhinus sujflans.] Balloon Shark. Swell .Shark. Literature L 39, 572, 697. Fig. 34. CEPHALOSCYLLIUM SUFFLANS (Regan). Actual length 18 ins. Snout rather pointed, head broad. Attains 3 ft. Known from Natal to the Red Sea in 70-200 fathoms. Rather rare. Able to inflate the abdomen like a Blaasop or Toby so as to be almost spherical. Greyish. SHARKS— Family SCYUORHINIDAE 53 Genus Poroderma Smith, genotype Squalus africanus Gmel. Body robust. Snout rather blunt, depressed. No fold on upper lip. A cirrus on front nasal flap. No oronasal grooves. Teeth small, tricuspid. A genus found mainly in our area, with 3 species, all small, distinguished from one another mainly by the markings. A. Large black spots on body . marlcyi (35) B. Large spots more or less in bands . pantherinum (36) C. 3-5 dark lines along body ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... africanum (37) 35. PORODERMA MARLEYI Fowler. [Scyliorhinus marleyi or leopardus Fwir.] Dogfish. Literature L 15, 19, 21. Plate 2, p. 60. Head rather depressed. Nasal cirrus long, reaches mouth. Spiracle small, close behind eye. Fins also spotted. Attains 18 ins. Found only in deep water off Natal, rather rare, specimens wanted. 36. PORODERMA PANTHERINUM (Muller & Henie). [Scylliorhinus panthehnus.] Lazy Shark. Literature L 58, 92, 697. Fig. 36. PORODERMA PANTHERINUM (M, & H.). Actual length 18 ins. Head rather depressed, snout rather blunt. Nasal cirrus long, reaches mouth. Spiracle close behind eye. Attains 2 ft. Occurs from the Cape to Natal and beyond to the tropical nearby regions of the Indian Ocean. Found in coastal waters and down to 1 50 fathoms. The markings are variable, sometimes the spots are all separate, sometimes almost concurrent into stripes, dark brown. 37. PORODERMA AFRIC.ANU.M (Gmelin). [Scylliorhinus africanus.] Dogfish. Striped Dogfish. Lazy- shark. Luihaai. Literature L 58, 92, 697. Plate 2, p. 60. Fig. 37. PORODERMA AERICANUM (Gmelin). From sp>ecimen 3 ft. in length. Snout rather blunt. Nasal cirrus does not reach mouth. Spiracle close behind eye. Attains 4 ft. Ranges from False Bay to Madagascar, from low tide mark down to 40 fathoms. A common species, very sluggish, at times a pest to anglers. Genus Scyliorhinus Blainville, genotype Squalus canicula Linn. Body rather elongate. Snout fairly blunt. Fold only on lower lip. No cirrus on nasal flap. Spiracle small, close behind eye. Small teeth in many rows, with small points at each side of base of main cusp. A few small Sharks of warm seas, only one in our area. 54 SHARKS— Family SC YLIORHINI DAE 38. SCYLIORHINUS CAPENSIS (Muller & Henle). [Scyl/iorliinus capensis.] Dogfish. Spotted Lazy, shark. Literature L 92, 328, 697. Plate 2, p. 60. Body rather slender, snout short and blunt. Skin fairly smooth. Nasal flaps separate without cirrus. Found in 20-250 fathoms from Port Nolloth round the Cape eastwards as far as India. It is not known in which area the species originated. Attains over 4 ft., not uncommon. The creamy spots are distinctive but less obvious in very large fishes which are almost uniform in colour. Genus Haploblepharus Garman, genotype Scyl/ium edwardsi Cuv. Mouth moderate with fold on each lip round angle. Nasal flaps united. Spiracle present, small, close behind eye. Only one species. 39. HAPLOBLEPHARUS EDWARDSI (Cuvier). [Scylliorhinus edwardsi.] Skaamoog. Pufadderhaai. Putfadder Shark. Dogfish. Literature L 92, 180, 526, 697. Fig. .S9. HAPLOBLEPHARUS EDWARDSI (Cuv.). Actual length .t ft. Head rather wide and depressed, with bluntly pointed snout. No nasal cirri, flaps joined. Teeth small, pointed, tricuspid, side cusps small. Attains 3 ft. Found in shallow water along our coasts from Port Nolloth to Durban, not known elsewhere. Reddish brown. Genus Halaelurus Gill, genotype Scylliitin burgeri M. & H. Body rather short, tail long. Head fairly short, depressed. Mouth large with fold on each lip round angles. Nasal flaps separate, cirrus absent or very minute. Spiracle small, close behind eye. An Indo-Pacific genus of small ground Sharks with numerous species, only one in our area. 40. H.4L.4ELURUS N.4T.4LENSIS (Regan). [Scylliorhinus natalensis.] Dogfish. Literature L 3, 92, 451. 526. 697. Plate 2, p. 60. Snout rather pointed, head depressed. Only suggestions of nasal cirri, flaps not united. Teeth small, pointed, tricuspid. Attains 2 ft. Found only in South Africa, Knysna to Natal, shallow water to 80 fathoms. An unmistakable species, fairly common in the trawl. Genus Pentanchus Smith & Radcliffe, genotype Penlanchus profundicolus S. & R. Body rather robust. Snout flattened, 3 times diameter of eye which is horizontally elongated. Nasal flaps separate with rudimentary cirrus. Mouth wide, with fold on each lip round angle. Small Sharks of deep water of all oceans. Only one species in our area. 41. PENTANCHUS MICROPS (Gilchrist). [Pentanchus or Scylliorhinus saldanha Barnard. Scylliorhinus microps.] Literature L 3, 39, 697. Fig. 41. PENTANCHUS MICROPS (Gilchrist). Original but after Gilchrist. Snout rather pointed. Teeth tricuspid. Attains 3 ft. So far found only on our west coast 500-800 fathoms. Rare. Specimens wanted. SHARKS— Family DALAT/JDAE 55 Genus Holohalaelurus Fowler, genotype Scylliorhinus punctatus Glch. Body rather short, tail long. Head short and depressed. Mouth large, no fold on either lip. Nasal flaps separate without cirri. Spiracle small. A genus confined to deepish water of South Africa, with only 2 species, both with spots. A. Distinct cross-bars ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... punctatus (42) B. No distinct cross-bars, reticulated . regani (43) 42. HOLOHALAELURUS PUNCl’ATUS (Gilchrist). [Scylliorhinus or Malaelurus punctatus. Scyliorhinus polystigma Rgn.] Literature L 35, 57, 697. Plate 2, p. 60. Snout rather rounded. Mouth 1 2 times as wide as long. No labial folds. Attains 14 ins. 120-250 fathoms, from the Cape to Natal. Rare. 43. HOI.OHALAELURUS REGANI (Gilchrist). [Scylliorhinus or Halaelurus regani.] Skaamhaai. Skaamoog. I/ak. Lazyshark. Leopardshark. Tigershark. Literature L 3, 19, 39, 644, '697. For juvenile see Plate 2, p. 60. Snout rather pointed in profile. Head broad, depressed. Mouth about twice as wide as long. No labial folds. Markings rather variable, spotted in young, more reticulated with age. Attains 4 ft. Taken in 60-250 fathoms from Port Nolloth to Natal, not uncommon. ORDER C YCL()SFH)M)M.r (44 54) The Cyclospondyli differ very sharply from most of the preceding forms being rather timid, small or medium sized Sharks, mostly of deep water, some bearing luminous organs. While mostly shark-like in appearance, in some structural features and in habits they show affinities with the flattened Rays or Skates. The absence of an anal fin and the shape of the caudal is in many cases almost typically Raiid. The flesh of most species is more delicate than that of more typical Sharks and of importance as food in many parts. While some are so rare as almost to be scientific curiosities, others are abundant. 2 families in our region. A. Dorsal fins without spine . ... ... ... ... ... . . Dalatiidae (44-46) B. Dorsal fins each with a spine ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Squalidae (47-54) Family DALAIllDAE Body elongate. Mouth little curved. Teeth not always alike in the jaws, the upper almost fang-like in most forms. No nictitating membrane. Spiracle present. Gill-slits all in front of pectoral origin. Mostly small Sharks living on the bottom in fairly deep water but one quite large. 3 genera in our area. A. Large spiny tubercles present ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Echinorhinus (44) B. Skin fairly smooth. 1. Head depressed, flattened ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Heteroscymnoides (45) 2. Head rather strongly convex above . ... ... ... ... ... Dalatias (46) Genus Echinorhinus Blainville, genotype the single species. Head depressed, snout short, spiracle minute. No spines in dorsals, which are close together. Robust heavy body, the skin set with bony tubercles most bearing a central spine. Only one species found in all warm seas. 56 SHARKS— Family DALATIIDAE 44. ECHINORHINUS BRUCUS (Bonnaterre). [Echinorhinus spinosus Gmelin. Echinorhinus mccoyi Whit.) Alligator Shark. Spiny Shark. Prickle Shark. Bramble Shark. Literature L 3, 58, 92, 655, 697. Fig. 44. ECHINORHINUS BRUCUS (Bonnaterre). Actual length 6 ft. A solid-bodied Shark with rough spiny skin, the tubercles of radiating bony structure, white, mostly with central spine. The horizontal upper edge of teeth with points at each side and basal serrations, more or less alike in each jaw. Hind margin of caudal not notched. Attains 10 ft., girth 7 ft., weight about 500 lbs. Colour varies from grey-brown to purplish above. Found in all warm seas from 10 -100 fathoms. Not common in our area, seldom seen except on trawlers. An ugly brute, usually covered with smelly mucus. The oil from the liver of this Shark has long had a high reputation as a medicament among natives and coloured races in South Africa and commands an exceedingly high price. Genus Heteroscymnoides Fowler, genotype the single species. Skin smooth. Snout long and depressed. Spiracle fairly large, well behind eye. Dorsals fairly widely separated, without spines. 45. HETEROSCYMNOIDES MARLEYl Fowler. Literature L 14, 19. 697. Elongate body. 20 rows of teeth in each Jaw, upper rather fang-like, none serrated. Brown-black, with violet eye. Only one specimen 5 ins. long, found at Durban. More wanted. Possibly the young of Heteroscymnus longus Tanaka, known from Japan. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Dalatias Rafinesque, genotype Squalus Ucha Bonn. Elongate body with smooth skin. No spines in dorsals. Snout short, rather elevated head. Spiracle large, well behind eye. Upper teeth almost fang-like, lower larger. Only one widely distributed form from deep water. 46. DALATIAS LICH.A (Bonnaterre). [Scymnorhinus or Dalatias hrevipinnis Smith. Dahlias phillipsi Whit, or americanus J. & S. Dalatias or Scymnus lichia M. & H.] Black .Jack or Black Shark. Literature L 70, 296, 697. Fig. 46. DALATIAS LICHA (Bonnaterre). Actual length 30 ins. SHARKS— Family SQUALIDAE 57 Body elongate, skin fairly smooth, denticles fine. 19 teeth in outer row in each jaw, edges serrate. Attains 5 ft. Widely distributed in the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific, found usually in 50-500 fathoms. In our area has so far been taken only off Algoa Bay in 200 fathoms. The different species described from different parts are almost certainly identical. Family SQUALIDAE SPINY SHARKS Easily recognised by the presence of a spine before each dorsal, with anal fin absent. Spiracles rather large. The females come into shallow water to give birth to the young which are born alive with spines to the dorsals already developed, but capped by soft knobs so that the mother is not lacerated. Small ground Sharks mainly of deep water, many rather abundant, and where not commonly used as food are a nuisance to fishermen as the spines infiict nasty wounds. These forms will become increasingly important as food once ignorant prejudice against them abates. At the moment thousands of people who would recoil in horror from eating “ Shark” consume with relish the flesh of these fishes which they purchase canned or preserved under concealing trade names. 5 genera in our area. A. Dorsal spines with grooves. 1. Teeth all simple. (u) Inner edge of pectoral much elongated (/?) Inner edge of pectoral normal. (x) Scales with smooth caps on slender stalks (j’) Scales with 3-4 points on caps . 2. Teeth in upper jaw tricuspid Atractophorus (47) Ceniroscymnus (48) Deania (49) Etmopterus (50-52) B. Dorsal spines not grooved Squalus (53-54) Genus Atractophorus Gilchrist, genotype the single species. Each dorsal with a spine, both grooved, the 2nd doubly barbed like an arrow head. Inner edge of pectoral elongated. Teeth in upper jaw almost fang-like, in lower jaw broader, oblique, no basal cusps. Only one species. 47. ATRACTOPHORUS ARMATliS Gilchrist. [Entoxychirus armatus.] Literature L 21, 39, 697. Fig. 47. ATRACTOPHORUS ARMATUS Gilchrist. Original but after Gilchrist. 1st dorsal spine normal, curved. 2nd dorsal spine terminally with arrow head. Inner pectoral edge produced. Grey-black, almost uniform. Attains 15 ins. Only few specimens ever found, all from fairly deep water off Natal, more wanted. Related forms known from Japan. Genus Centroscymnus Bocage & Capello, genotype Ceniroscymnus coelolepis B. & C. Each dorsal with a small spine, grooved, end barely exposed. Inner angle of pectoral not extended. Teeth in upper jaw slender in 3 groups, lower teeth broader. Dermal plates with smooth caps on slender stalks. Few' species known, one from Japan, one in our area and a few of the Atlantic. 58 SHARKS— Family SQUALIDAE 48. CENTROSCYMNUS FUSCIJS Gilchrist & von Bonde. Literature L 49, 697. Body fairly robust, torpedo-shaped. Snout elongate. Eye large. Spiracles large with groove to eye. Dorsal fins small, 1st originates over extremity of pectoral, 2nd over hinder part of pelvic base. Pectoral rather short. In upper jaw about 70, in lower about 35 teeth. Uniform brownish. Attains 40 ins. A rare species tound only once in our area, off Saldanha Bay in 280 fathoms. Type apparently lost, specimens wanted. Will possibly be found identical with coelolepis Bocage & Capello from the Northern Atlantic. Genus Deania Jordan & Snyder, genotype Dcania eglaiiiina .1. & S. Each dorsal with a spine, each grooved, 1st spine small. Pectoral short, inner angle not produced. Teeth rather slender, more or less triangular. Dermal plates with caps each with 3-4 points. Pound only in fairly deep water. Many species have been described, but close study of the descriptions and of several specimens points to there being only one widely distributed form in the Indo-Pacific. 49. DEANEY EGLANTINA Jordan & Snyder. [Acanthidium or Dcania (/uadrispinosnni McCull. Acan- thidium or Deania nalalense Gleb.] Literature L 39, 541, 697. Elongate snout with big eye. About 30 teeth in each jaw. Attains 4 ft. Pound in 50-200 fathoms olf Japan, the Phillipines and Australia. Our few' specimens were obtained otT Natal in 100-180 fathoms and off Algoa Bay in 120 fathoms. Specimens always of value to Museums. Por full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Etmopterus Rafinesque, genotype Squalus aculeaius Raf. Each dorsal with a spine, with two grooves on each side, 2nd spine longer. Pectoral rather short. Teeth in upper jaw erect, tricuspid, a median large and 2 smaller basal cusps, lower teeth rather oblique. The ventral surface of the body bears series of tiny organs which secrete luminous mucus. Small Sharks mostly from very deep water of all oceans, 3 species in our area. A. Skin uniform velvety. 1. Spinules on skin in regular rows on tail ... ... ... ... ... ... granulosus (50) 2. Spinules on skin irregular . ... spinax (51) B. Scales form ridges on back ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... lucifer (52) 50. ETMOPTERUS GRANULOSUS Gunther. Literature L 39, 336. Fig. 50. ETMOPTERUS GRANULOSUS Gunther. Actual length 16 ins. SHARKS— Family SQUAUDAE 59 Body more or less torpedo-shaped, with long spatulate snout. Spiracle fairly large. The rather widely spaced dermal denticles cover all the body except the top of the snout, a ring round mouth and an oval space round the base of each dorsal fin. On the tail the denticles are in regular straight lines. Uniform blackish. Attains 20 ins. An Indo-Pacific deep-water species, from as far as Chile, has been found off Cape Point in 200-800 fathoms, rare in our area. 51. ETMOPTERUS SPINAX (Linnaeus). [Spinax spinax.] Lantern Shark. Literature L 39, 105, 526, 644, 655, 697. Fig. 5L ETMOPTERUS SPINAX (Linnaeus). Actual length 16 ins. Rather elongate and slender with long depressed snout. Body covered with bristle-like denticles, irregularly close-set, velvety, no special ridges. Teeth in upper jaw pointed, sharp with 2 basal cusps each side, those of lower jaw bent sideways. More or less uniform dark brown, luminous area on belly darker. Attains 24 ins. Occurs in the eastern Atlantic 400-600 fathoms. Rare in our waters, has been taken off Cape Point in 400 fathoms. 52. ETMOF*TERUS LUCIFER Jordan & Snyder. [Spinax lucifer. Acanthidium molleri Whit.] Literature L 39, 444, 526, 697, 699. Fig. 52. ETMOPTERUS LUCIFER J. & S. Actual length 9 ins. Rather elongate but relatively robust body, with depressed snout. Body covered with bristle-like denticles arranged above in regular horizontal series, those on lower surface uniformly spaced. Dark brown to black, with luminous area on belly usually darker. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in deep water in the Indo-Pacific. Rare in our area, a few specimens from deep water off the Cape, Algoa Bay and Natal. Genus Squalus Linnaeus, genotype Squalus acanthias Linn. Each dorsal with a spine, not grooved. Teeth alike in the jaws, with oblique point and cutting edge almost horizontal. Spiracles distinct. Snout fairly elongate. Small ground Sharks of moderately deep water, very abundant in some parts, notably in colder seas. The flesh is excellent, and while prejudice still prevents its universal use as food, it is relished by many when presented in such form that they are ignorant of its true nature. Hated by fishermen, being virile and not easily handled, for the spines inflict serious wounds. These small Sharks do great damage to the young of edible fishes. 2 species in our area, abundant. A. Eye equal to snout . fernandinus (53) B. Eye about half length of snout ... ... ... ... ... ... acanthias (54) 60 SHARKS— Family SQUALIDAE I 53. SQUALUS FERNANDINUS Molina. [Sqiui/us acutipinnis Rgn. Squalus inontalbani Whit. Squalus megalops Macleay.] Spiny Dog Fish. Piked Dog Fish. Dog Fish. Spiky Jack. Pen Haai. Galludo (Canaries). Literature L 3, 92, 486, 644, 697. Rather elongate. Dorsal spines fairly prominent. Spiracle rather small. Eye about as long as snout. Dermal plates minute, with 3 points. Greyish to brownish, abdomen lighter. Attains 40 ins. This species occurs throughout most of the Indo-Pacific and is abundant in 20-200 fathoms along most of our coast, large numbers being taken in almost every haul of the trawl over a wide area. Flesh delicate and of good flavour, a tragedy that South Africans scorn this excellent food. One drawback is the difficulty of handling the fish, even when dead, as the spines inflict severe wounds, 54. SQUALUS ACANTHIAS Linnaeus. [Squalus vulgaris Gray.] Spiny Dog Fish. F’iked Dog Fish. Dogfish. Spiky Jack. Pen Haai. Literature L 3, 39, 92, 395, 655, 697. Fig. 54. SQUALUS ACASTHIAS Linnaeus, .-ybove, 18 ins., below 36 ins. Rather elongate. Dorsal spines fairly prominent. Spiracle moderate. Eye about half length of snout. Colour variable, sometimes white longitudinal stripes, mostly slaty grey with one or two rows of light spots, which show up clearly on the live fish in the water. Attains 3 ft. An Atlantic species, occurs in 20-200 fathoms off most of our area, more plentiful off our west coast, but not as abundant in our area as No. 53. Flesh excellent, but in South Africa used mainly for making fish-meal. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER SQU.ATINAE (55) Body flattened, heavy and clumsy. Snout broad, spiracles present. Mouth in front. Teeth more or less conical, in undulating series in each jaw. Nostrils with skinny flaps. Two dorsal fins far back near caudal. Pectorals free from side of head, much expanded sideways, flattened. Caudal small. Viviparous. Curious rather degenerate fishes, intermediate between Sharks and Rays in general structure, but habits rather like the latter. They probably represent a compromise form now moving towards extinction. A single family found in most seas, chiefly in fairly shallow water, but sometimes taken down to 100 fathoms or more. PLATE 2 30. Stegostomo fascia, urn, 5 ft. 35. Poroderma marleyn.9 ins. 37. Poroden,,a africanam. 40 2J.Z‘Zganl vapcnsis 3 ft. 40. Halaeturas nalalensiX 18 ins. 42. Holohalaehiras puaCalas. \2 ins^ 43. Holohalaelurus regam, ’ 12 ins. Inset, typical egg case. Actual length stated m each case. ". -’v. f ^ Ml « SHARKS—Family SQUATINIDAE and SAW-SHARKS— Family PRfSTIOPHORlDAE 61 Family SQUATINIDAE Only one genus Squatina Dumeril, genotype Squatina squatina Linn. A number of species have been described, but as full graded stadia have never been studied, some are of doubtful validity. These fishes occur in all but the coldest seas, but are rarely encountered, and little is known about their habits. They are clumsy and harmless and though repulsive in appearance are probably edible. The name Monk-fish was possibly suggested by the resemblance of the outline of the fish to a robed, smooth-pated monk. One species in our area. 55. SQUATINA AFRICANA Regan. Monk Fish. Angel Shark. Plat- anner. Literature L 3, 47, 52, 697. Plate 3, p. 63. Upper surface of body with irregular rough denticles, not in a regular line down the middle of the back. 2 spines each side at the end of snout, 2 in front of each eye and 4 behind. Skin along margins of fins smooth, except a few spines on pectorals in males. Whole under surface smooth, except a few rough bands along margins of pectorals and pelvics. Attains 4 ft. Found only in South Africa, from Mossel Bay to Delagoa Bay, not abundant. Possibly identical with some Indo-Pacific species. ORDER PRISTIOPHORAE (56 57) SAW-SHARKS Body elongate, gill-slits on side, in front of pectorals. Snout produced into a long, Hat blade with teeth at each side. These small true Sharks with lateral gill-slits should not be confused with the larger dangerous Saw-fishes, to which they bear a superficial resemblance. The latter are Raiid fishes, with gill-slits in the ventral surface. In the Saw-sharks the teeth are only superficial, whereas in the Saw-fishes they are embedded in deep sockets. Only one family is known. Family PRISTIOPHORIDAE 5 or 6 lateral gill-slits. No anal fin. Dorsal fins without spines. Rostral blade with several series of teeth functional, and with a pair of long barbels on lower surface in front. Small bottom-dwelling Sharks of the Indo- Pacitic, rarely exceed 5 ft. in length, some in deepish water. The spiny snout is probably used for rooting in mud and among weeds, the barbels used as feelers. Although the saw may normally not be used as a weapon, it can inflict nasty wounds if the fish is incautiously handled. 2 genera are recognised. A. 5 gill-slits ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Pristiophorus (56) B. 6 gill-slits ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Pliotrema (57) Genus Pristiophorus Muller & Henie, genotype Pristis cirratus Latham. Elongate body. Spiracles present. 5 gill-slits. Rostral teeth unequal. Viviparous. The rostrum is developed before birth but the teeth are folded beneath to avoid injury to the mother. Several species about Australia and Japan, only one recorded from our area. Flesh wholesome. 56. PRISTIOPHORUS CIRR.4TUS (Latham). [Prisiis cirrhatus.] .Saw Shark. Literature L 92, 123, 697. Produced snout set with about 24-26 larger teeth. A smaller tooth each side of larger. In each jaw, close set teeth, pointed, about 36 in upper, 30-32 in lower jaw. Dermal denticles rather broad, each ending in a point. Scales also on dorsals, pectorals and pelvics. Attains 4 ft. Occurs fairly abundantly in the central Indo-Pacific. Only once recorded in our area. The flesh is stated to be excellent. These fishes feed mainly upon more sluggish fishes. Genus Pliotrema Regan, genotype Pliotrema warreni Regan. Elongate body. Spiracles present. 6 gill- slits. Rostral teeth unequal, serrated behind. In the embryo the teeth are folded down under the skin so as not to injure the mother, and there are other teeth on the lower surface of the rostrum which are lost after birth. Only one species. Fig. 55. SQUATINA AFRICANA Regan. Actual length 4 ft. 5 62 RAYS— Family PRISTIDAE 57. PLIOTREMA WARRENI Regan. Saw Shark. Saagbek. Literature L 3, 51, 92, 526, 697. Plate 3 p. 63. Produced snout with pointed compressed teeth, serrated behind. 40-44 pointed teeth in upper, 30-34 in lower jaw. Dermal denticles pointed with one or more ridges, extend on to front of fins only. Attains 3 ft. Found only in South Africa, from the Cape to beyond Delagoa Bay, quite commonly taken by trawlers in 20-200 fathoms. The saws are sometimes found on the shore. Flesh excellent. ORDER RAJAE (58-92) SKATES and RAYS Body more or less disc-shaped, rounded or sub-angular, flattened, with the pectorals fused along the sides of the head. 5 gill-slits on lower surface. Spiracles usually large. No anal fin. Dorsal fin present or ab.sent. Tail always reduced, sometimes merely a filament. Mouth on lower surface. In many cases the early embryos show Shark-like affinities in not having the pectorals joined to the head, a fusion that occurs with development, occasional failures producing monstrosities. In this Order are well-known flattened bottom-dwelling fishes, abundant and widespread, rather degenerate. The spiracles are of more importance to these than to any other cartdaginous fishes, being used in breathing. Water is drawn in at the gills and out via the spiracles, where the strong current may easily be felt by the hand. Many of these fishes are of importance as food. 8* families in our area, easily distinguished by shape alone. A. Body rather elongate, snout usually pointed. 1. Snout produced, toothed, bony . 2. Snout normal, soft B. Body not elongate, either rounded or angular, laterally widened. 1. No prominent electric organs. (a) Caudal fairly thick, dorsal fins distinct, small, near end of caudal (b) Caudal thin, dorsal fin feeble or absent. (.v) Snout normal. (i) Flead elevated above pectorals (ii) Head not elevated (;•) Snout produced as a fleshy flap each side . 2. Large electric organs present in body Family PRISTIDAE Pristidae (58-59) Rhinohatidae (60-64) Raiidae (65-73) Aetohatidae (74-77) Dasyatidae (78-86) Mohulidae (87-88) Torpedinidae (89-92) SAW-EISHES Elongate, depressed body. Snout produced into a long, flat blade with teeth set in sockets on each side, no barbels below. Numerous small blunt teeth in each jaw. Gill-slits in lower surface of body. Large spiracles. Dorsals large. Caudal well developed. Large fishes of warm waters of all oceans, fairly abundant in the Indo- Pacific. They live on the bottom, rooting in mud and among weeds for the smaller marine creatures which form their mam food, and many enter estuaries freely, penetrating even to fresh water. Some attain a large size, certainly over 20 ft., and are much dreaded by bathers and shore netters in the tropics, notably in Indian waters where they are not uncommon, and it has been stated that a side lash of the saw has cut a man in half. Fishes of this type are timid and not actually aggressive, but dangerous only when startled or cornered. This makes them no less to be feared as the lash of the sword inflicts most ghastly wounds so that they should be treated with respect. The saw is built up of several hollow bony tubes cemented together and covered with a hard shell, while the teeth develop from sockets and are firmly implanted. These fishes are viviparous, but before birth the teeth are concealed to prevent damage to the mother. The flesh is good eating and the liver oil is useful in many ways, probably a valuable source of vitamins. Only one genus, Pristis Linck, genotype Squalus pristis Linck, with 2 species recorded from our area, nowhere abundant. A. 17-22 teeth on rostrum . microdon (58) B. 24-32 teeth on rostrum . pectinatus (59) * For family RHIN7DAE see Appendix, p, 503. ffv/v: Mwe’i ?yifi PLATE 3 55. Squatina africana, 3 ft. 57 Pliolrema warreni, 18 ins. 59. Prislis peclinalus, 10 ft. 61. Rhinohatos blochii, 30 ins. bi. Rhinohatos annulalus, AO ms. 65. Rata bat is, 9 ms. 6S. Raia smilhi, 22 ins. 69. Raia ocelli/era. kft, female, right, male, 20 ins. 70. Raia barnardi, 22 ins. 71. Raia rhizacanthits, 40 ins. 75. Mytiobatis cervus, 38 ins. Actual length stated in each case. RAYS— Family RHINOBATIDAE 63 58. PRISTIS MICRODON Latham. [Rristis perrotteti Val.] Saw Fish. Say Jynn (West Africa). Literature L 3, 489, 655, 697. 17-21 rostral teeth in double series fairly wide-set. Gill-slits below. About 70 series of small, blunt teeth in each jaw. 1st dorsal almost wholly in front of pelvics. Small sub-caudal lobe present. Greyish to brownish above. Attains 15 ft. Has been found in the Zambesi River, in fresh water miles inland. Will probably be found in Mozambique. Occurs in both Atlantic and Indian Oceans, favouring shallow water and estuaries. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 59. PRISTIS PECTINATUS Latham. Saw-fish. Literature L 3, 92, 123, 580, 697. Plate 3, p. 63. 24-32 rostral teeth, close together in front. Gill-slits below. About 70 series of small, blunt teeth in each jaw. No sub-caudal lobe. (There are 2 other species without sub-caudal lobe which may be found in our area. P. clavcita Gar. has 21 rostral teeth, P. zijsron BIkr. 24-32. The latter differs from pectinatus in having the 1st dorsal inserted over last half of pelvic.) Attains at least 25 ft., the largest of the Saw-fishes. Occurs in all warm seas common in Indian waters, is not uncommon in Natal and Mozambique, and one specimen has been found near East London. Fights quite well when hooked, well known to Natal anglers. The flesh is good eating. Family RHINOBA IIDAE SANDSHARKS: SHOVELNOSE SHARKS: FIODLE SHARKS: SANDKRLIPERS Depressed body with usually a tapering snout and elongate caudal portion. Teeth numerous in pavement¬ like bands. Spiracles close to eye, large. 2 dorsal fins. Caudal well developed. 5 gill-slits on lower surface. Viviparous rays of shallow water of all warm seas, mostly of moderate size, some large. The flesh is excellent as food, and as bait. These fishes feed on bottom organisms, chiefly mollusca, but will take flesh when available. 5 genera are recognised, 2 in our area. A. 1st dorsal about opposite pelvics . Rhynchohatus (60) B. 1st dorsal well behind pelvics ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Rhinohatos (61-64) Genus Rhynchohatus, genotype Rhinohatus laevis Schn. Disc longer than wide, snout elongate, tapering. 1st dorsal about opposite pelvics. Fairly large tubercles on back. Large rays of shallow water, which dififer from most others in this family in being splendid game fishes. 3 species known, one from the African tropical Atlantic coast, and one Indo-Pacific species in our area. 60. RHYNCIIOB.ATUS DJEDDENSLS (Forskal). Shovel-nose. Sand Shark. Literature L 3, 328, 697. Fig. 60. RHYSCHOBATUS oy£DO£.\5/5 ( Forskal). After Day. Teeth blunt, about 40 rows in each jaw, dental surfaces of jaws feebly undulated. Spiracles close to eye, 2 folds on hind margin. 1st dorsal originates over front part of pelvics. There are backwardly directed tubercles in single rows behind each eye (divided by the spiracle), from the nape along the back as far as the 2nd dorsal (interrupted by 1st dorsal), and along each shoulder. Attains 10 ft. and a weight of at least 500 lbs. Occurs throughout the Indo-Pacific and is observed in our area only in summer when adults come inshore. This is a famous angling fish, a much respected antagonist on the Natal coast and at Lourenco Marques. Most anglers who hook a big djeddensis have little to show but broken tackle. One specimen observed at Knysna, cast up dead in February, 1934. 64 RAYS— Family RHINOBATIDAE Genus Rhinobatos Linck, genotype Raia rhiiiohatos Linn. Disc longer than wide, to as wide as long, usually tapering to a pointed snout. 1st dorsal well behind pelvics. A flap of the iris projects from above over the pupil. A genus of many closely related moderate sized, sluggish, bottom-living Rays of shallow water of all warm seas. They frequent sandy areas and seek escape by shuffling into the sand, leaving only the eyes visible. They are slow swimmer.s, easily captured by hand, feeble fighters on lines. The flesh is excellent as food and as bait. The nomenclature is in some confusion as there is disagreement about the validity of features used. 7 species have been listed from our waters, but only 4 are here recognised, the other 3 varying hy features that arc not regarded as valid. A. One skinny flap on hind margin of spiraele. 1. Eye j its distance from snout tip ... ... ... ... ... ... hlocliii (61) 2. Eye i its distance from snout tip ... ... ... ... ... ... ■■■ obtusus (62) B. Two skinny flaps on hind margin of spiracle. 1. Annular rings on back . . ... ... ... annulalus (63) 2. No annular rings on back ... ... ... ... ... schlcgeli (64) 61. RHINOB.4TOS BEOCHIl Muller & Henle. [Rhiiwhalus hlochii.] Sandshark. Saiulkriiiper. Fiddicfish. Vioolvis. Literature L 3, 92, 180, 296, 603, 697. Plate 3, p. 63. Snout short and rather broad. Only one skinny projection from hind margin of spiracle. Eye \ distance to snout tip. Small spines in one series down midline of back, smaller series on head and shoulders, more obvious in the young. Attains 40 ins. Found only in South Africa, from the Cape to Beira in shallow water, not common. 62. RH1NOB.4TOS OBTUSUS Muller & Henle. [Rbi/tobatus ohiiistis.] Sand Shark. Saiulkriiiper. Fiddle- fish. Vioolvis. Previously wrongly listed as /m/rtv/ Forsk. Literature L 92. 180,697. Snout moderately pointed. Only one skinny projection from hind margin of spiracle. Eye I distance to snout tip. Small tubercles, some spiniform, along back and top of head. Grey to brownish above. Attains 3 ft. An East Indian form rarely seen in our area, has been found in Natal. Specimens of value to Museums. 63. RHIN0B.\10S .\NNUL.4TUS Muller & Henle. \Rliinob(iiiis zciii^ibaricnsis Norman. Rbinobcjtt^s /eucospi/us NoTmiin. Rbinobarus ocellatus Norman.] Sand Shark. Sandkruiper. Shovelnose. Fiddicfish. Vioolvis. Guitarfish. Gitarvis. Previously wrongly identified as Rhbwbatus colimiiuie Bon. Literature L 3, 58, 92, 96, 180, 603, 697. Plate 3, p. 63. Snout pointed. 2 skinny projections from hind margin of spiracle. Skin with close set fine denticles, smooth to the touch, an enlarged series down midline of back, obvious in the young, less prominent with age. Attains 55 ins. Colour and annular rings vary with environment, mainly sandy-yellow above, the spots blue or grey. Shape of mouth and nostrils variable so that nominal species have been proposed. Occurs only in South Africa, mainly in shallow water from the Cape to Zanzibar. A feeble swimmer which conceals itself beneath the sand, and is not infrequently left stranded by the receding tide. Gives no sport when hooked. The flesh is excellent as food and as bait. Enters estuaries in fair numbers in summer, mainly females, probably to giv'e birth to young. They seek shallow water for this purpose probably for refuge from Sharks. 64. RHINOBATOS SCHLEGELI Muller & Henle. [Rhinobatus holcorhyncbtis Norman, or luilale/tsjs Fwir.] Sand Shark. Shovelnose. Sandkruiper. Literature L 3, 14, 180, 580. 697. RHINOBATOS SCHLEGELI M, & H. After Fowler, woiecZ's P™"’ hind margin of spirada. Body smooth, a single series of small foiiJid on sandv hoft ^ j Colour variably grey to brown. An Indo-Pacific species S Port ShZtone 'n« TornTn ““ RAYS— Family RAUDAE 65 Fig. D. Typical Egg-case of Ray. Family RAIIDAE RAYS or SKATES. ROG Flat, depressed body and head, the pectorals during early development becoming fully united to them, forming a rhomboid or almost circular disc. 2 dorsal fins. Tail distinct, fairly slender, but not whip-like, caudal fin at most small. Most species have a rudimentary electric organ each side of the end of the tail. Many have spines on the upper surface, in males those out towards the sides are erectile. Teeth small, numerous, usually flattened in a pavement, in males usually more pointed than in females. Spiracles large, being the exit for water taken in by the gills below, the outgoing current as the fish breathes may easily be felt by the hand. These fishes occur in most seas, chiefly in deepish water, living on the bottom. They feed on shell-fish and similar forms of life, but eagerly consume fish flesh also. They capture creatures by smothering them with the wings and feed in that position. Some attain a fair size and the flesh of most is excellent, in many parts ranked as a delicacy. Most species reproduce by means of eggs which are enclosed in large horny rectangular cases with a tubular, flattened projection at each corner. The two sexes often differ quite widely, sometimes almost unbelievably, females being as a rule broader across the disc and more spiny than the males. Considerable changes occur with growth, and as there is hardly one of our species known at all stages, it is at present almost impossible to correlate every juvenile with the adult. New species founded on young specimens should be disregarded. At the present stage of our knowledge identification is sometimes uncertain, so the amateur should not be dismayed if he finds difficulty in tracking some forms to the species. Because of this it is the intention of the author to make a detailed revisional study of our Rays. This will occupy too long a time to justify delaying the production of this book for its inclusion. Sometimes, during development, the front part of the pectoral fins fails to fuse with the side of the head, and these abnormal creatures have been named “ Sea Dragons ”. Figure E shows two early illustrations of such monstrosities. Sailors dry Skates and then cut and bend the wetted fishes to various curious shapes. These mummified objects are sold to a credulous public as fabulous creatures under the names : Jenny flanivcr. Dragon, Sea Dragon, Basilisk, Mermaid, Monkey Fish, etc. In every case, however, careful examination shows how they have been prepared by manipulating the parts of some Ray. In this family 2 genera are recognised, but only one occurs in our area, genus Raia Raia clavata Linn. Nine species are at present recognised as living in our waters. A. Distinct blackish spot-) and streaks on lower surface B. No blackish streaks on lower surface. 1. Eye t- spiracle less than 3 snout length . . 2. Eye i spiracle more than 1, snout length. («) Snout long and pointed beyond disc ... ... . {h) Snout not long and pointed beyond disc. (i) Less than 50 rows of teeth. (ii) (.v) Less than 30 rows of teeth... ( v) More than 30 rows of teeth. (ci) 1 row of spines along back. t. Distinct blue ocellus each side .. tt- Many round spots . ttt. Large irregular markings . (i3) 3 or more rows of spines along disc More than 50 rows of teeth . Linnaeus, genotype hat is (65) spinaciclermis (66) alha (67) smithi (68) oceUifera (69) barnardi (70) rhizacanthus (71) caudaspinosa (72) leopardus (73) 66 RAYS — Family RAIIDAE 65. RAIA BATIS Linnaeus. [Raia stabuliformis von B. & S.] Skate. Ray. Rog. Literature L 92, 395, 644, 697. Plate 3, p. 63, juvenile. Disc slightly broader than long, front margins undulated, slightly concave. Snout moderately pointed. 52-56 rows of flat teeth. Upper surface mostly smooth, few small spines on snout, front of pectorals and middle of back. Several spines about eyes. 20 large spines along top of tail, smaller spines each side. Grey to brown, sometimes spots. Lower surface with dark spots and streaks. Attains 7 ft. An Atlantic species found in 20-200 fathoms, reaches Algoa Bay, rather rare here. Flesh considered good. Easily recog¬ nisable by the distinct dark spots and lines on the lower surface. 66. RAIA SPINACIDERMIS Barnard. \Raia durhanensis von B. & S.] Literature L 1, 3, 644, 697. Disc 1 J times broader than long, front margin almost straight. Whole upper surface covered with fine spines. 60 rows of pointed teeth. Slaty grey above and below. Attains 24 ins. Known from deep water off the Cape and Natal. Fig. 6.*!. RAIA IIATIS Linnaeus. Width 20 ins. Fig. 67. RAIA ALBA Lacepede. Actual breadth 30 ins. abundant. Raia par comacidata von Bonde is probably the young of this species. 69. RAI.A OCELLIFER.A Regan. Ray. Rog. Skate. Blue Eye Skate. Literature L 3, 51, 92, 644, 697. Plate 3, p. 63, male and female. 44-50 rows of teeth, pointed in males, blunter in females. Attains 25 ins. Abundant to 100 fathoms from the Cape to Natal, also found at Delagoa Bay. A common species in the trawl, easy to identify. Fig. 68. RAIA SMITH! M. & H. Juvenile, 9 ins. in width. 67. RAI.A ALB.A Lacepede. [Raia margitiata Lac.] Ray. Rog. Skate. Speariiose Skate. Literature Lp, 92, 644, 697. Disc broader than long, broader in females. Upper surface smooth. 40-46 rows of teeth, pointed in males. 10-20 spines along top of tail and a row each side. Colour variable, often grey with white 'spots. Attains 8 ft. An Atlantic species which extends as far as Natal down to 100 fathoms. Flesh palatable but deteriorates rapidly with keeping. 68. RAIA S.MITHl Muller & Henle. Ray. Rog. Skate. Literature L 3, 92, 180, 644, 697. Plate 3, p. 63, adult. Disc about IJ times as wide as long, broader in females. Upper surface mainly smooth, spines along back and tail more prominent in juveniles. 26-28 rows of pointed teeth, fairly wide set. Grey to brownish, tail blackish below. Attains 3 ft. Found only in South Africa from Port Nolloth to Natal down to 400 fathoms, not RAYS— Family AETOBATIDAE 67 70. RAIA BARNARDl Norman. Literature L 644, 697. Plate 3, p. 63. 40-48 rows of teeth, rather pointed. Rather large spines about eyes, and along back and tail. Adults typical “chocolate-blancmange ” colour, with groups of lighter spots, easy to recognise. Attains 40 ins. From Port Nolloth to Algoa Bay down to 200 fathoms, but not abundant. 71. RAIA RHIZACANTHUS Regan. Skate. Thornback. Ray. Rog. Literature L 3, 51, 644. Plate 3, p. 63. 30-44 teeth. Females larger, with wider and much more spiny disc, often with plates bearing claw-like spines over body. Attains close on 5 ft. Found only in South Africa from Walfish Bay round to Madagascar down to 200 fathoms. An abundant but variable species, previously confused with the European clavata Rond. Flesh excellent. 72. RAIA CAUOASPINOSA von Bondc & Swart. Literature L 3, 99, 644, 697. Disc about IJ times broader than long. Eye plus spiracle more than 3 snout length. 30-42 rows of teeth. Spines about eyes. 3 rows of large spines along the back and usually 5 along tail. Greyish above. Eound only in South Africa, from the Cape to Natal down to 200 fathoms, rare. Lig. 72. RAIA CAUDASRINOSA von B. & S. Actual width 7 ins. Lig 73. RAIA LEOPARDUS von B. & S. After von Bonde. 73. RAIA LEOPARDUS von Bonde & Swart. Literature L 3, 99, 644, 697. Disc about as long as broad. Eye plus spiracle more than 3 snout length. 50-80 rows of teeth. Small spines over most of upper surface. A single row of larger spines down back and tail in young, 3 rows in adults. Colour and markings variable, sometimes brown with large darker spots. Often an annulated mark at base of each pectoral. Attains 40 ins. Known from Walfish Bay to Natal down to 300 fathoms. Previously confused with European species. Family AETOB.ATIDAE EACLE-RAYS: BLLLRAYS: PVLSTERT: STINGRAYS Rather wide disc with more or less falcate ends to pectorals. Head slightly elevated with the eyes in the ridges on the side. The lower front of the head is expanded forward as a thick, fleshy flap, in one genus, Rhinoptera (see Appendix), clearly divided into two parts. Tail long and whiplike, in most cases with one or more serrated spines at the base with a small dorsal fin sometimes present. Teeth as a flat scroll in each jaw. Large viviparous bottom dwellers on mud or sand in mainly warm shallow waters. They swim freely even near the surface and from the movement of the pectorals appear to “ fly ” in the water. They feed mainly on shellfish which are crushed with the teeth, but eagerly eat flesh also. The serrated spine on the tail is coated with poisonous mucus. Even the smallest cut from the spine is agonising and deep wounds may be fatal. These fishes, while not as dangerous as the true Stingarees (No. 78 on), are rightly much dreaded and should be handled with the greatest care. For 68 RAYS — Family AETOBATl DAE treatment of wounds see p. 24. Most of these Rays are fine sporting fishes, fighting gamely and at least one (No. 74) is known to jump from the water. The flesh of most species is edible and of importance as food in the tropics. Large Sharks are quite commonly found to have the serrated caudal spines of fishes of this family firmly embedded in the mouth and throat and even in the stomach walls also. They seem to suflcr no great inconvenience from their presence. 4 genera in oiir area. (For Rhinoptcra see Appcndi.x, p. 503.) A. Only one row of teeth ... ... ... ... ••• ••• Stoasodon (74) B. 3 or more rows of teeth. 1. Snout quite blunt ... ... ... ... ... • •• Myhohatis (75-76) 2. Snout rather pointed . Ptcromylacus (11) Genus Stoasodon Cantor, genotype Raja nariiiari Euph. Head projects well beyond front margins of pectorals, the snout rather pointed. Pectorals strongly falcate. Tail long and whiplike with 1 2 serrated spines at base. Spiracles large. Teeth in a single row in each jaw. A small dorsal fin on tail. 2 species are often recognised but there is probably only one, widely distributed in shallow water in all warm seas. 74. STOASODON NARINARI (Euphrasen). pimctatiLs Maclay and Maclcay. Aciobatis flaycHuni Schn.] .Jumping Ray. Duckbill Ray. Impogo or Konibedo (West Africa). Literature L 3, 44, 328, 495, 655, 697. Snout more pointed in males than in females. Teeth in upper jaw wider than in lower. Tail when complete more than 4 times body length, usually shorter from injury. Body purple-brown with spots. Attains 1 1 ft. across the disc. Found in all warm seas, has been observed from Knysna to Beira. An important food fish of the tropics. Feeds mainly on the bottom on shell-fishes, and causes damage to oyster beds. Fights gamely when hooked, the first rush often breaking the line, and big fishes are difficult to bring to the gaff'. Some¬ times leaps from the water. Females seek shallow- water to give birth to the young, up to 10 being born within an hour. Sharks find these newly-born young very tasty and often follow the mother. It is said that the young are born while the mother [Ac’tohalix nariiiari. .Aciohali.s, Myliohatis or Ptcromylacus Bonnet Skate. Spotted Ray. Keppierog. Pylstert. Fig. 74. STOASO DOS SARISARI (Fuph.). ,\ctual \\idth 2S ins. leaps from the water, but from my ow n observations it seems more likely that a mother while giving birth to young and cornered by a Shark might well try to escape by leaping away and that one or two babies might be born at that time. Genus Myliobatis Cuvier, genotype Raja aqui/a Linn. Head prominent. Snout rather blunt. Teeth in 7 rows in each jaw. Tail fairly long. A serrated spine at base. Pupil of eye with protecting flap from above. Bottom dwelling Rays of warm waters of all seas. Only 2 species recorded from our area. A. Conical process above eye in males ... ccrvu.s (75) B. No conical process above eye in males... ac/uila (76) 75. MYLIOB.ATLS CF.RNUS Smith. [Aciohaii.s or Holorhinus cervus Smith.] Whip Ray. Stingray. Bull Ray. Eagleray. Pylstert. Literature L 67, 697. Plate 3, p. 63. Males with small, white-capped, blunt conical horn Fig. 75. MYLIOBATIS CERVUS Smith. smooth. One Or 2 serrated spines Actual width 30 ins. S- base of tail, which is normally twice body length but is usually shortened by injury. Females attain 60 ins. across the disc, the males are notably smaller. Known only from South Africa, Agulhas to Natal, in shallow water, plentiful in estuaries in summer. Feeds on the bottom mainly on mollusca, but eagerly takes flesh also. RAYS—Family DASYATfDAE 69 The flesh is rather bitter though reputedly wholesome. A game fighter, the first rush swift and vigorous, difficult to kill. Females produce up to 12 young at a time, which are fully developed and swim away. Sharks find these newly'horn young tasty morsels. A large female giving birth to young in one of our rivers sought refuge from a Shark on a shallow bank. The Shark pushed itself up as far as it could while the Ray lay splashing vigorously 'with the wings. The falling tide left the Ray and 3 babies stranded while the Shark managed with difficulty to struggle away. This Ray makes a loud hissing or drumming noise when out of the water. 76. MYLIOBATIS AQUILA (Linn.). [Holorhinus or Aetobatis aquila.] Literature L 3, 92, 697. Differs from the preceding species mainly in no orbital horns in the male. The presence of this species in our area is doubtful. It is not uncommon in the Atlantic and may reach our area. Attains 6 ft. across the disc. Genus Ptcromylaeus Garman, genotype Mytiobatis asperrinms J. & E. Head rather prominent, snout somewhat elongated. Spiracles open upwards. Teeth in 7 rows. Long whip-like tail. Only one species from the warm waters of the Atlantic. 77. PI FROMYLAEUS BOVINUS (St. Hilaire). [Myliobatis bovinus.] Duckbill. Sting Ray. Pylstert. Obispo (West Africa). Literature L 3, 526, 655, 697. Large head. Skin smooth. Spiracles open upwards. 1 length when not mutilated. Attains 5 ft. across the disc, area as far as Delagoa Bay, but is not often seen. Pig. 77. PTEROMYLAEUS BOVINUS (St. Hilaire). Actual width 4 ft -2 serrated spines at base of tail, the latter twice disc An Atlantic warm water form which penetrates our Family DASYAIIDAE STINGRAYS: STINGAREP:S A flat, rather lozenge shaped disc, the front margins usually straight, not undulated. A long tail with usually a serrated spine well behind the base. No dorsal fin. Teeth small, in pavement. These Rays are found in warm shallows of all oceans, many entering estuaries, penetrating even to fresh water, and there is a fresh water species in South America, a close relation of the marine forms of that region. These fishes are a menace to all who move in shallow water in the tropics. Mostly they lie concealed on the bottom and when trodden on or scared, lash the tail round and bury the venomous doubly serrated spine in a limb or the body. The spine has 2 longitudinal grooves on each side and in these are connected poison-glands, the poison from which is extremely irritant and causes not only great swelling but the most intense pain. The only hope of recovery is rapid removal of the spine from the flesh and irrigation of the wound with some antidote. Even then many stabs prove fatal while those who recover often suffer for some time from general ill-health. Little is known about the chemical nature of the poison, which is similar to that found on the spines of other fishes such as the Barbel (No. 165). If one of these fishes is hooked it is safer to cut the line and let it go. Spears of primitive man were tipped with these spines and Ulysses was slain with such a spear. Even to-day in tropical countries the larger spines are valued by natives for use as spearheads. Some species of Stingrays attain a large size, one of 15 ft. total length, and a weight of 800 lbs. has been recorded from the Indo-Pacific. Most species are wholesome eating. The young are born alive and the caudal spine has a soft bulb on the tip to prevent damage to the mother. 4 genera in our area. A. Body not much wider than long. 1. Tail long with serrated spine present. {a) Tail compressed, ribbon-like . Taeniura (78) (b) Tail eylindrical, tapering ... . Dasyatis (79-82) 2. Tail short, no spine ... ... ... .•■ •■. • •• Anacanthohatis (84) B. Body much wider than long ... . . Gymnura (85-86) Genus Taeniura Muller and Henle, genotype Trygon ormtum Gray. Disc rather smoothly oval. Long tail, compressed and ribbon-like with 1-2 serrated spines. Mouth small, teeth small, in pavement. No dorsal fin. Only 2 Indo-Pacific species, one from our area. 70 RAYS— Family DASYATWAE 78. TAENIURA LYMMA (Forskal). [Taeniura lymnia. Taeniura halgani Lesson.] Kibbontail Ray. Fantail. Literature L 275, 697. Plate 4, p. 70. Disc smooth except for some tubercles along mid line of back. Enlarged rough denticles appear with age. Tail longer than body, hinder spine rather long. Attains at least 8 ft. total length. Occurs throughout almost the whole Indo-Pacific. Rare in our area, found otf Inhaca Island in Delagoa Bay. Genus Dasyatis Rafmesque, genotype Dasralis ujo Raf. Disc more or less rhombic. Tail fairly thick at base, tapers rapidly, moderate to very long, with 1-2 serrated spines well out from base. Sometimes folds of skin above and below tail, no dorsal fm. These Stingrays are found in all tropical and temperate waters, some attaining a great size. They are said to be aggressive, and the poisonous spine is a terrible weapon, for many persons have died from the effects of stabs, which are agonising. Recovery is not likely uidess the spine is rapidly removed and the wound treated (see p. 24). Numerous species have been described. One character used in dift'erentiation is the number of skinny flaps on the floor of the mouth. Another is the length of the tail, but as this is variable as a result of injury, there is little doubt that when proper material is available the number of species will be much reduced. 6 have been recorded from our area, but it is the author's opinion that not all are valid. A. Tail at least 3 times body length . uarmik (19) B. Tail 1-1. \ times body length. 1. A raised fold of skin along top of tail . pastinacus (80) 2. No rai.sed fold of skin along top of tail . brcvicaudatus (81) C. Tail shorter than body length . purpureiis (82) 79. D.\SYAT1S U.4RN.\K (Forskal). [DasyhatLs or Trygon uarnak. Himautura toshi Whit.] Stingray. Stingaree. Whipray. Marbleray. Pylstert. Literature L 3. 47. 328, 494, 697. Plate 4, p. 70. Disc barely wider than long, usually smooth. The adult develops a few' tubercles on the middle of the back. 4-7 skinny flaps on floor of mouth. Colour varies from light sandy to dark brown, usually with spots or marbling. Tail with 30-35 dark rings, 3-4 times length of disc. Grows to 5 ft. across the disc, a dangerous animal with a large serrated spine. Occurs throughout the whole tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal. Taken on lines it atfords fair sport. Flesh good. 80. DASY.4TIS P.4STIN.4CUS (Linnaeus). {Da.syhatis pastinacus or pasfinaclius.] Stingray. Pylstert. Chuco (West Africa). Literature L 3. 92, 580, 655, 697. Disc slightly wider than long, front margin of pectoral longer than hinder. Spiracles larger than eyes. 23-35 rows of teeth. Tail 1 .1 times length of disc with serrated spine well away from base and with a fold of skin above and below behind spine. 3-5 skinny flaps on floor of mouth. Colour variable, grey to brown, uniform or marbled. A small species, attains 2 ft. across the disc. Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean mainly, reaches Natal, not common. Stated also to occur in Indian waters. Good eating, rather slussish on a line. Plate 4, p. 70. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. D.4SY.4TIS Actual BRF.IICAUD.4TUS (Hutton), width 33 ins. 81. D.4SY.4TIS BREVICALD4TLS (Hutton). [Dasybatis or Da.syatis agulhensis Brnrd. Trygon or Dasyhatis schreinen Glch. Bathytoshia brevicauclata.] Stingray. Pylstert. Literature L 3, 526, 697. Tail about I,] times disc length. Disc little wider than long. 30-50 rows of teeth. 3-9 skinny processes on floor of mouth. Purplish brown. Attains 7 ft. across the disc and a weight of 800 lbs. A fearsome brute with one or more long serrated spines in the tail. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific is not uncommon in our area from the Cape eastwards down to 100 fathoms. ■Hwbn PLATE 4 78. Taeniura lymnia, length 40 ins. 79. Dasyatis uarnak, width 3 ft. 80 Dasyalis pastinacus, W'idth 20 ins. 89. Narke capensiSy length 12 ins. 91. Torpedo marniorata, length 20 ins. S' ..« •*. .« V‘i, , . .. ' -:’> -?v‘ '*, RAYS— Family DASYATIDAE 71 82. DASYATIS PURPUREUS (Muller & Henle). [Dasyhatis purpurea.] Stingray. Pylstert. Blue Ray. Literature L 3, 5, 180, 697. Disc little wider than long with front margin of pectoral about as long as hinder. Disc smooth. Tail about disc length with small skin fold above and below. 10-1 1 skinny flaps on floor of mouth. 32 rows of teeth. Dark violet above. Attains a width of 20 ins. A little known species first described in 1841 and not until recently again found at the Cape. Genus Anacanthobatis von Bonde & Swart, genotype the single species. Sub-rhombic disc, apically pointed. Short tail with rudimentary terminal fin, no skin folds or spine. Fig. 84. ANACANTUOltATIS MARMORATUS von B. & S. Actual width 4| ins. 84. ANACANTHOBATIS MARMORATUS von Bonde & Swart. Literature L 99, 697. Smooth body with small papillae on upper surface. Brownish. Attains 10 ins. So far found only off Natal in 160 fathoms. Rare. Needs detailed study. Genus Gymnura Kuhl, genotype Raia micrura Schn. Disc very wide, increasingly so with age, but even in the very young wider than long. A short thin tail with serrated spine at base, and a small dorsal fin may be present. Eyes small. Spiracles large, close behind eye, sometimes a small tentacle on hind margin. Teeth minute in a band in each jaw. Large Rays of characteristic shape found mainly in shallow waters of all warm seas, widely distributed but nowhere abundant, enter estuaries freely. Viviparous. Flesh excellent. Various species have been described, probably most are not really valid. 2 are recognised from our area. A. No tentacle behind spiracle ... ... japonica (85) B. A tentacle behind spiracle ... ... natalensis (86) 85. (JYMNL'RA .JAPONICA (Schlegel). [Pleroplatea japonica.] Butterfly Ray. Diamond Skate. Back¬ water. Pylstert. Previously wrongly identified as Pleroplatea micrura Schn. Literature L 3, 697. No dorsal fin. No tentacle on hind margin of spiracle. Tail half body length. Attains 6 ft. across the disc. Brown above more or less mottled. Tail alternately light and dark. An Indo-Pacific species recorded from the Agulhas Bank. 86. GYMNURA NATALENSIS (Gilchrist). [Pleroplatea natalensis.] Butterfly Ray. Diamond Skate. Rattail. Backwater. Pylstert. Literature L 3, 44, 62. Fig. 86. GYMNURA NAT.4LENSIS (Glch.). Left, juvenile at 15 ins., right, adult 6 ft. width. 72 RAYS— Family MOBUUDAE No dorsal fin. A small tentacle at hind margin of spiracle in juveniles, becomes obsolete with growth. Teeth in pavement, somewhat undulate. Body changes from almost triangular in embryo to wider in adult. Colour usually greyish, often mottled, variable. Able to vary markings and shades rapidly to suit background. Against shingle has a reticulated pattern. Attains 8 ft. across the disc. Occurs only in South Alrica trom Mossel Bay to Delagoa Bay. These Rays feed mainly on shell-fish, and on fiesh when available. Adults, mainly (emalcs, come inshore and penetrate estuaries in summer, probably to give birth to the young. When caiight in drag nets these fishes rear up against the net and so hinder its drawing in, hence the name “ Backwater ”. With greater knowledge of Indo-Pacific forms this species will probably be found to be identical with one ot those. Family MOBUl.IDAE DEMLFISH or DEMERAVS Disc much wider than long, rhomboid, the pectoral tips falcate. On each side of the snout is a fleshy pro¬ jection, a cephalic fin or “ horn ”, separated by the width of the mouth, the latter either terminal or below the head. Teeth minute. The intestinal canal is so made that only fine material can pass through the stomach, and these creatures feed mainly upon minute organisms strained from the water. Tail thin, whiplike, sometimes with basal spine. One species is the largest of all Rays, not uncommon in tropical waters, often seen on the surface, sometimes jumping repeatedly from the water. It has been stated that females give birth to young while leaping in the air, but there is no evidence for this. This Ray is often harpooned and usually tows boats for a long time until exhausted, but will sometimes leap from the water, and has upset or swamped boats and killed men in this fashion. The great size and weird appearance have led the ignorant to regard these fishes with fear and to state that they are ferocious and cunning, whereas they are actually quite mild creatures unless attacked. .Any specimen of these Rays should be reported to the nearest Museum. 2 genera are recognised. A. Mouth below head ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Mohula {iil) B. Mouth at front of head ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Mama (88) Genus Mobula Rafinesque, genotype Mohula auriculata Raf. Tail slender, sometimes a spine present at the base. Mouth below head, minute teeth in bands in both jaws. Small dorsal fin present. A few species are recognised, found in all warm seas. Only one is known from our area. 87. MOBL’L.A DLABOEUS (Shaw). [Mohula kuhli or kulilii Val. Mohula draco Gnthr. Mohula thurstoni Whitley.] Devilfish. Devilray. Oxray. Diamond Ray. Duiwelvis. Literature L 84, 697. No spine at base of tail. In each jaw 30-80 oblique rows of about 10 teeth according to size of fish. Skin quite smooth. Spiracle small. Grey to grey-brown above. Attains only about 4 ft. across the disc. Occurs in the tropical Indo-Pacific and reaches as far south as Port Alfred in our area, but is rarely seen here. Flesh apparently edible. Although feeding mainly on minute creatures they will take flesh bait. Often jump repeatedly from the water, not an uncommon sight in Delagoa Bay. Has been reported to grow to 18 ft., but these were probably specimens of No. 88. Little or nothing appears to be known about reproduction in this Ray. The only specimens examined were males. Genus Manta Bancroft, genotype Cephalopterus manta Bancroft. Tail fairly slender, *apering, whiplike, without basal spine. Mouth terminal, between cephalic fins. Minute teeth in a band only in the lower jaw. Small dorsal fin present. Gigantic Rays of tropical seas, probably only one species. Little is known about them. Fig, 87. MOBULA DIABOLUS (Shaw), Actual width 44 ins. RAYS— Family TORPED/NIDAE 73 88. MANTA BIROSTRIS (Walbaum). [Manta ehrenbergi M. & H. Deratoplera alfredi fCreft. Daemo- manta alfredi Kreft.] Devilray. Devilfish. Manta. Duiwelvis. Oxray. Eaglerav (Natal). Literature L 3, 170, 343, 697. t-ig. 88. MANTA BIROSTRIS (Walb). Actual width 18 ft. Wide mouth at front of head. Minute tubercle-like teeth, 130-200 in a band in the lower jaw only. Skin rather rough with small tubercles. Stated to grow to a width of 24 ft. and a weight of over 2 tons. Occurs in all warm seas, has been found from the Cape to Natal. Several of close on 18 ft. in width have been taken on the Natal coast, but the largest so far was captured at East London, 1948. Little is known about these Rays. They almost certainly live on minute forms of life strained from the water by the curious sievelike mechanism of the gills. Most examined have so far been females, and it has been stated that only one young is produced at a time, but that is based on negative evidence only. Males are apparently very seldom seen. In tropical seas these gigantic Rays may be seen leaping repeatedly from the water, causing booming splashes audible and visible many miles away. Harpooned for “ sport ” they tow boats for hours before being killed, but have sometimes by leaping and falling on the boat killed or maimed their pursuers. They only rarely come inshore, but sometimes even enter estuaries, becoming entangled in chains and cables, and so captured. The name Manta is Spanish for “ shawl ”. The shape of the Ray is almost e.xactly that of a folded shawl as a woman swings it stretched over her shoulders. Family TORPEDIMDAE ELECTRIC RAV.S. DRIIATS Viviparous, flabby Rays with normally almost circular disc, characterised by 2 large electric organs, one on each side of the body. These are kidney-shaped masses of cells (see fig. D), abundantly supplied with nerves which enable the fish to give a powerful electric shock to anything that touches it. The larger forms can stun a man, and to step on even a small one in the water is most unpleasant. These fishes use this organ to stun smaller creatures including fishes so that they may easily be captured. The electricity is converted nervous energy. If one of these Rays is made to give repeated shocks these become rapidly feebler and the fish so exhausted as to be unable to move, but it slowly recuperates with rest. In some parts of the world there are other fishes, notably large eels, which give a shock that will stun a man. but our Torpedos are feeble by comparison. 6 74 RAYS— Family TORPEDINIDAE though some species will give a first shock of over 100 volts. These fishes frequent sandy and muddy bottoms from shallow water down to 300 fathoms, and are so coloured as to be practically invisible when at rest against the background. Adult females generally seek shallow water in summer to give birth to the young. 3 genera in our area. A. Only one dorsal fin . .\arke (89) B. 2 dorsal fins. 1. Spiracle close against eye ... Heteromirce (90) 2. Spiracle somewhat behind eye... Torpedo (91-92) Genus Narke Kaup, genotype Ruju capen.sis Gmel. Only one dorsal fin. Disc almost circular. Tail short. Eyes distinct. (There is a related genus from New Zealand with rudimentary eyes, and the pelvics modified for walking.) Several species from the Indo-Pacific, only one in our area. 89. NARKE C.4PENSIS (Gmelin). [Astrape or .\arcine capensi.s.] Electric Ray or Skate. Drilvis. Numbfish. Literature L 3, 52, 92, 697. Plate 4, p. 70. Disc somewhat longer than wide. Eyes rather protruding. Spiracles close behind eye, edges crenulate but not fringed- Dorsal inserted behind hind end of pelvic base. .Attains 15 ins. Colour mainly brownish. Found only in South .Africa from the Cape to Madagascar to 100 fathoms. Taken quite abundantly at moderate depths by the trawl. Gives a much more powerful shock than most other forms. Fig. D. Diagram to show size and position of electric organs in Torpedo. Genus Heteronarce Regan, genotype Heieronarce garmani Regan. Disc almost circular, rather fiat or even concave in front. 2 dorsal fins. Spiracles close against eye. Nostrils minute. 2 Indian Ocean species, only I in our area. 90. HETERON.ARCE G.ARM.ANT Regan. [Heteronarce regani von B. & S. Sarcine natalensis Fwlr.] Disc less than half total length. Spiracles about 5 of their distance apart. (The other species that may be found here has larger spiracles and disc more than half total length.) .Attains 10 ins. Mostly brownish. So far known only from 40-120 fathoms from East London to Natal. Rare. Specimens wanted. Genus Torpedo Houttuyn. genotype Raja torpedo Linn. Disc almost circular, front margin flattened. 2 dorsals. Spiracles distinctly back from eyes. Small teeth in a pavement. The pupil is partly covered by a flap of the iris from above. Fairly numerous species in most warm seas. These are the commonest members of this family, quite plentiful in some areas. Variable in form and markings so that there is a certain amount of confusion of form. Only 2 species are here recognised in our area. A. Spiracles with fringe of tentacles . _ marmorata (91) B. Spiracles not fringed . y; nohiliana (92) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Electric Ray. Drilvis. Literature L 14. 39, 99, 697. Fig. 90. HETEROSARCE GAR.MAM Rgn. Actual length 8 ins. RAYS— Family TORPEDIN/DAE 75 91. TORPEDO MARMORATA Risso. [Narcohatus marmoratus. Narcohatus smithii Gnthr. Torpedo panthera Olfers. Torpedo siniis-persici Olfers.] Electric Ray or Skate. Drilvis. Numbfish. Crampfish. Shockfish. Literature L 3, 92, 296, 697. Plate 4, p. 70. Dise almost circular, flabby. Spiracles separate from eye with a number of fleshy tentacles on hind margin . 1st dorsal not twice size of 2nd. Attains 27 ins. An Indian species plentiful in our area as far as the Cape, in shallow water and down to 100 fathoms. Females seek shallow water and enter estuaries in summer to give birth to the young which are often found stranded by the tide on banks. These Rays are able to live for a long time out of the water, and on moist sand they survive for hours when left by the tide. Sluggish and timid, they usually lie in shallow water hidden in sand or mud and give the unwary a severe shock and a fright. A big fish produces in its first and greatest effort probably over 100 volts, but there is no record of any human fatality. Their electrical- nervous energy is easily exhausted. The flesh is edible but not generally eaten. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 92. TORPEDO NOHIMANA Bonaparte. [Narcohatus nohilianus.] Electric Ray or Skate. Drilvis. Literature L 3, 92, 697. An Atlantic deep water Torpedo found as far east as Algoa Bay, rarely above 60 fathoms. Not uncommon off the west coast to 250 fathoms. Distinguished from No. 91 by the absence of tentacles from the spiracles and by the markedly small 2nd dorsal. Attains at least 4 ft., but gives only a feeble shock when hauled up from the cold water of our west TORPEDO NOBILIANA Bon coast. Actual length 24 ins. CLASS CHONDRICHTHYES SUB-CLASS 2. HOLOCEPHALl Distinguished by the jaws being part of the skull, and by the teeth being united to form bony plates. Also there is only one external gill-opening. ORDER CHIMAERAE CHIMAERAS: GHOST SHARKS Rather elongate body with smooth skin. No spiracles. Teeth united to form 2 bony plates in upper, 1 in lower jaw. Males have a curious organ on the forehead, known as a Tenaculum, which folds into a pit, and there is another similar before the pelvic fins. These are known also as Claspers and have probably some sexual function. These curious and rather repulsive shark-like inhabitants of deep water arc related in many ways to the EUSELACHU. They are almost certainly the descendants of some early shark-like ancestor and have probably not changed much over vast periods of time, as fossil forms are well known. They are obviously timid and harmless and are probably slowly moving towards extinction. The flesh is wholesome but most peoples recoil from eating so repulsive a fish. 3 families of living forms are recognised. A. Snout normal, no projection ... ... ... ... ... ... Chinuwridcie (93-94) B. Snout with projection. 1. Short projection, recurved below ... ... ... ... ... ••. Callorhrnchidac (95) 2. Projection long and thin, not recurved ... ... ... ... ... Rhinochimaeridcic (96) Family CHIMAERIDAE Elongate body with tapering tail. Snout rounded without projection. Lateral line an open groove. Dorsal very long, the first part with a large erectile grooved spine in front. Oviparous, the egg cases oval, fringed. Only one genus, Chimaera Linnaeus, is recognised, genotype Chimaera monstrosa Linn. A number of species, many doubtful, have been described, all from deep water, 2 in our area. A. Lateral line wavy ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... monstrosa (93) B. Lateral line straight ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... africana (94) 93. CHIMAERA MONSTROSA Linnaeus. Chimaera. Ghost Shark. Literature L 3, 39, 92, 655, 697. Lateral line groove wavy. Claspers of male divided into 3 for about half length. Anal fin separate from caudal. Caudal ending in a long filament. Mainly iridescent silvery with brownish suffusions. Attains 5 ft. Found in most seas (except the eastern Pacific) at 50-600 fathoms, in our area mainly about the Cape. 94. CHIMAER.A .AFRICANA Gilchrist. Chimaera. Ghost Shark. Literature L 39, 644, 697. 76 CHIMAERAS— Families CALLORH YNCHIDAE and RHINOCHIMAER! DAE 77 Differs from No. 93 mainly in that the lateral line is not wavy, and that the anal fin is not clearly distinct from the caudal. Found off Natal down to 300 fathoms. Rare. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family CALLORHYNCHIDAE Elongate body with tapering tail. Snout produced into a proboscis with a skinny flap turned down and back. Fateral line a closed tube with pores to the outside. Dorsal fin with a long erectile spine in front. Oviparous, the egg-case spindle shaped. A single genus, Callorhynchus Facepede, genotype Chimaera callorhynchus Finn, with few species in almost all seas, one in our area. 95. CALLORHYNCHUS CAFENSIS Dumeril. Doodskop. .Josup. Josef. Monkeyfish. Elephant Fish. Literature L 3, 47, 52, 92, 697. Fig. 95. CALl.ORHYSCHUS CAPESSIS Duni. o'. Actual length 40 ins. Egg case on left. Attains 48 ins. Lives in shallower water than the other members of this order, in 5-100 fathoms off most of our area, rarer in Natal. Flesh edible. An object of curiosity whenever seen, but not rare. Family RHINOCHIMAERIDAE Body elongate with very long tapering tail and snout produced forward into a long point. Lateral line an open groove. A large erectile serrated spine before 1st dorsal. Found in deep water of most oceans. A single genus in our area, Harriotta Goode & Bean, with one species. 78 CHIMAERAS— Family RHINOCHIMAERIDAE 96. HARRIOTTA RALEIGHANA Goode & Bean. [Harriotta pinnata Schn^ick.] Ratfish. Literature L 7, 622, 697. r Fig. 96. HARRIOTTA RALEIGHANA G. & B. After Goode & Bean. Dental plates rather beak-like, with definite cutting edges. This species is easily recognised by the shape. Attains 4 ft. Occurs in very deep water of the great oceans. Only one specimen ever taken in our area, from deep water off Walfish Bay. Specimens wanted. CLASS OSTEICHTHYES BONY FISHES Fishes which have true bone as some part of their structure. There are three sub-classes ; 1. CHOANICHTHYF’S, embracing Lung-F'ishes and the Coelacanth. 2. NEOPTERYGII, modern Bony Fishes. 3. FAEAEOI’TERYCII, certain survivals of primitive type, none in our area. SUB CLASS CHOANICHTHYES ORDER CROSSOPTERYGII SUB-ORDER COEEACANTHIM COEEACANIH FISHES The fins are fringed lobes. The internal skeleton never fully ossified, the axial skeleton chiefly of hollow cylinders of at most feebly ossified cartilage. Most species show the characteristic supplementary caudal fin as a remnant at the end of the body. F'our families, all but one extinct. Family EATIMERIIIME Dermal bones of head reduced. Supplementary caudal present. Only one living marine representative in the single genus l.atimeria Smith. 98. E.ATIMFRIA CHAEUMNAE Smith. Coelacanth. Literature L 76, 77, 79. Plate 66, p. 314. Body robust and plump. 2 dorsals, the 1st of 8 rough spines with membrane behind, 2nd dorsal of 30 rays. Anal of 29 rays. Lateral line 76, plus 23 on the supplementary caudal, which latter is well developed. 2nd dorsal, anal, pectorals and pelvics all typical fringed lobes. Teeth mainly fang-like, set in bony plates in the mouth, 2 large, bony (gular) plates below the lower jaw. Almost uniform blue. A single 5 ft. specimen taken at 60 fathoms some miles out from the mouth of the Chalumna River, west of East London, in December, 1938. There are reports of previous specimens and of remains having been found, none being preserved. Even fragmentary remains of any Coelacanth are of the greatest scientific value and should, if found, be taken or sent to the author or to the nearest Museum. No expense should be spared to achieve this object. People constantly ask why the discovery of a living Coelacanth caused so great a sensation throughout the world. It is a long story, but here are the main outlines. Working from fossil remains and correlating what has been learned from primitive and more recent living forms, scientists had deduced with reasonable certainty that all creatures that live or have lived on land originated ultimately from the Choanichthyes. Those fish-like creatures were among the earliest to develop, are known to have existed 400 million years ago, and at times apparently occurred in great numbers. Of all creatures those more primitive Choanichthyes changed perhaps least with time, and typical forms have left fossil records showing relatively slight modification of structure over almost incredibly long periods. In this class there developed the 3 orders, DIPNOI, RHIPIDISTIA and COELACANTHINl. The DIPNOI or LUNG-FISHES have never been abundant, but managed to survive great geological and climatic changes over vast ages. Remnants of this ancient line still live in the fresh waters of Africa, Australia and South America. Having developed an organ rather like a lung they can breathe air direct and so are able to survive in even the foulest waters. Our species (Protoplerus annectens), stands even prolonged drought, for it remains dormant within a specially formed capsule in the baked earth, and revives when the rains come. It was once supposed that primitive DIPNOI were the ancestors of land vertebrates, including man, but more recent evidence does not support that view. The Rhipidistians for some reason left the water to conquer the land, and from them Amphibia, Reptiles, Mammals and Birds have arisen. The original stock died out long ago. Very closely related to the Rhipidistia, the Coelacanth fishes remained in the water, but while they first throve and multiplied, they subsequently declined 80 THE COELACANTH— Family LATfMER/fDAE in number, and by 100 million years ago not many remained. Fossil records indicated that by 70-60 million years ago the COELACANTHINl had all perished. It was, therefore, a great but in many ways a pleasan*^ shock for the biological world when it was announced from South Africa in 1939 that a true Coclacanth, almost bone for bone and fibre for fibre identical with those of 300-70 million years ago, had been di.scovcrcd alive it' these waters. Although work on fossils had reached a high level, there always remained, at least in the mind of the ordinary man, a certain degree of doubt as to whether scientists’ reconstructions of prc-historic creature'' trom fossil remains could be taken seriously. Did not the imagination of the scientist at times outrun his discretion? The discovery of the living Coelacanth has helped to dispel such doubts, for it has shown in convincing U'shion how almost uncannily accurate have been the deductions and reconstructions of the palaeontologists. Wh"t is as important is that the discovery of this fish has afforded scientists an opportunity beyond their dreams, of examining the actual structures in a living creature so obviously the same as those of so long ago, one almost on the direct line of our own ancestry. It has enabled minor misinterpretations to be corrected, has revealed the true nature of certain bones and cavities long a puzzle, and has thrown light on the nature and origin of features in the vertebrate skull. It has made some scientists realise that it is unwise to be too dogmatic, and most important of all, perhaps, is that the discovery brings at least the hope that other creatures believed long extinct may still lurk somewhere unknown. Fig. 98. LApMERIA CHALUMNAE Smith. Top. left, section of tooth. Top, middle, lateral line scale. Top ngnl, head from above. Centre, whole fish, actual length 5 ft. Bottom, left, ventral aspect. Bottom, right, front BONY FISHES—FEATURES 81 SUB CLASS NEOPTERYGII TYPICAL BONY RAY-FINNED FISHES Fishes with a firm skeleton of true bone. Gill-slits with a cover, the operculum, with only one external opening. Scales are normally present but sometimes obsolete. The caudal fin is usually more or less symmetrical. Most are oviparous, the numerous eggs fertilised by the male after they have been shed by the female. A few are viviparous, then fertilised by copulation. Parental care of eggs or young not common. No intestinal spiral valve, no nictitating membrane, and no spiracle in these fishes. Most living fishes fall here and show possibly greater diversity of form, habit and colouration than any other living creatures. While the majority are more or less typical, some are so highly specialised as to be recognisable as fishes only with difficulty. Most are of comparatively recent origin, by far the greatest number probably from the central Indo-Pacific. These fishes fall into numerous ORDERS, mostly well defined, but a really useful key to the orders would be voluminous and in the structure of this book not really necessary. FEATURES OF A TYPICAL NEOPTERYGIAN FISH The sketch below shows most of the features of a typical fish of this class. Not all these characters are found in any one fish. Pig, G. CHARACTERS OF A BONY FISH. 1. Horizontal spine before dorsal tin. 2. First dorsal fin. .1. Second dorsal fin. 4. Adipose dorsal fin. 5. Caudal fin ( Fmarginate). 6. Anal fin. with .t spines. 7. Pelvic fin. 8. Pectoral fin. 9. Opercle. 10. Preopercle. arrows show margin. 1 1 . Cheek, 12. Nape. 13. Supraorbital tentacle. 14. Nostrils. 15. Nasal tentacle. 16. Mental barbel — (on chin). 17. Premaxilla. IS. Maxilla. 19. Vent. 20. Lateral line. 21. Isthmus. 22. Caudal peduncle, 23. Adipose eyelid. 24. Branchiostegal rays. FINS The main function of fins is to stabilise and assist in movement through water. In some cases fins or parts of fins have been modified to form i.a. weapons of defence (e.g. SCORPAENIDAE, No. 1034 on), sucking discs (e.g. ECHENEIDAE, No. 945 on, and GOBIESOCIDAE, No. 1086 on), feelers for food (e.g. TRIGLIDAE, No. 1077 on), lures for attracting food (e.g. LOPHIIDAE, No. 1222 on), vanes for flying through the air (e.g. EXOCOETIDAE, No. 210 on), and for many other purposes. Typical Neopterygian fins are composed of R.\YS or of SPINES more usually of both. 82 BONY FISHES— RAYS are flexible and show distinct articulations or joints, especially near the apex. They may be simple or divided, with 2 to many branches. SPINES, when present, are usually in the front of a fin. They are normally bony, hard and sharp, sometimes serrated, and even when thin and flexible show no articulations. A normal Neopterygian fish has VERTICAL or unpaired fins, and PAIRED fins. VERTICAL fins are the DORSAL, CAUDAL and ANAL. PAIRED fins are the PECTORALS and PELVICS, the latter sometimes termed VENTRALS. DORSAL FIN. When single and fairly short, this is usually placed midway along the back, and in most such cases spines are feeble or absent. Normally the dorsal originates on or near the head, and is often single with spines in front connected directly with soft rays behind. Sometimes it is in 2 or more parts, in which case the anterior part is usually of spines only, and any soft rayed 2nd dorsal normally has one spine in front. Some fishes have a forwardly directed horizontal spine projecting from the origin of the dorsal, sometimes termed “ Antrorse recumbent spine ". Some fishes, generally those with no true bony spines in the dorsal, have a curious fleshy fold far back known as an ADIPOSE dorsal (e.g. No. 176). Some swift, rather elongate fishes have small, detached finlets behind the main dorsal (e.g. SCOMBRIIDAE, No. 828 on). In scientific literature the dorsal fin is for convenience abbreviated to D, spines are written in Roman and soft rays in Arabic numerals, so that D X 12 indicates a single dorsal fin of 10 spines and 12 soft rays. L) VI ■ I 9 shows 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 6 spines, the 2nd of I spine and 9 soft rays. The dorsal and anal fins are primarily stabilising vanes. A fish with both removed tends to “ Roll ”, and while for speed a fish folds both fins back to diminish resistance, in surf and for rapid turning it erects both. Swift fishes usually have deep grooves into which these fins can be almost completely folded back. AN.AL FIN, — This starts behind the vent and normally consists of more rays than spines, more than .1 spines only rarely being present. The anal fin is seldom divided, but detached finlets may be present behind. The anal fin is written A, and A III 10 means a single fin with 3 spines and 10 soft rays. C.4UD.4L UN or tail fin. Found usually at the hind end of the body but sometimes elsewhere (see No. 369), consists usually of soft rays only and is variable in shape and size. It may be POINTED (No. 464), ROUNDED (No. 1033), TRUNCATE (No. 454), EMARGINATE (No. 482), FORKED (No. lOI), LUNATE (No. Ill), or WEDGE SHAPED (No. 304). Sometimes the lobes are produced in the adult (BALISTID.AE, No. 1 155). Usually quite tree, the caudal may be united to anal or dorsal or to both, as in the Barbel-eel, No. 163. Contrary to general belief a fish swims not so much by use of the caudal fin as by undulatory pressure of the body against the water, and while the caudal fin has some propulsive action, it is mainly a rudder. If the caudal fin is carefully cut off, after a short time a fish swims just as last without it, but tends to wobble. Aquatic mammals, e.g., whales and porpoises, have a tail fin set horizontally, not vertically as in fishes. PECTOR.CL FINS.— These correspond with the fore-limbs of animals (our arms) and are normally attached to the shoulder girdle, just behind the head. Only rarely is a spine present (e.g. Nos. 163 165). As may be seen from the illustrations pectorals vary somewhat in shape and position. In some cases rays are detached and elongated for use as feelers (e.g. TRIGLIDAE, Nos. 1077—1085). In swimming the pectorals arc used mainly as vanes to assist rapid turning, also for diving and for rising in the water, while a few feeble swimmers use them as paddles (TETRAODONTOIDEA, No. 1190 on). This fin is abbreviated to P, so that P 16 means a pectoral fin of 16 soft rays. PELVIC FINS.— Sometimes termed VENTRALS, to avoid confusion with pectorals by abbreviation, and the Pelvics are usually abbreviated to V. Pelvics correspond with the hind limbs of animals (our legs) and are usually on the ventral (or lower) surface of the body. When as in most fishes beneath the pectorals they are said to be THORACIC in position, further forward JUGULAR and when far back ABDOMINAL. In some deep sea fishes they are inserted at odd points of the body. Normally the pelvics consist each of 1 spine and 2-5 soft rays, but may have more spines and rays, and sometimes no spine is present. The pelvics are used as vanes, usually in conjunction with the pectorals, and when fully extended they assist a fish to rise in and from the water’ Fishes which shoot along the surface, such as the HEMIRHAMPHIDAE (No. 216 on), keep the pelvics fully extended at that time. BONY ['ISHES—FEATURES 83 MOUTH PARTS Most fishes have some type of LIPS. The lower jaw is composed of the MANDIBLES, one on each side, cemented by cartilage in front. The upper jaw is normally composed of a PREMAXILLA in front on each side, with a maxilla above and partly behind. In front the premaxilla normally has a more or less conical, rather thin expansion above known as a PEDICEL, which slides in a groove on the snout as the mouth opens and shuts. The Premaxillae are barely united in front. In the palate are the single VOMER and PARASPHENOID, and the paired PALATINES and PTERYGOIDS, while PHARYNGEALS arc far back in the throat. The sketch below shows the chief tooth-bearing bones of the roof of the mouth of a typical bony fish. Most fishes have some sort of TONGUE, either FREE, or if fastened down to the lloor of the mouth is termed ADNATE, and sometimes the tongue may bear fine teeth. I KE I EL There is much controversy about the succession of teeth in fishes, and the matter is not yet beyond dispute. Teeth in fishes are of many shapes and sizes. Ml LIFORM or SEITFORM teeth are fine, bristle-like, usually in bands like a brush, generally found in rather small fishes feeding on minute forms of life, but also in some large predatory forms such as the Garrick, No. 539. CONICAI. teeth are perhaps the commonest and may be OBTUSE, i.e. blunt, or ACUTE, i.e. long and sharp, when they are termed CANINIFORM or fang-like. F'ishes with strong conical teeth arc usually predatory. INCISORS are flattened, often chisel edged. Mostly they have the edge ENTIRE or smooth, but it may be notched or wavy, when they are said to be NOTCHED or CRENULATE or CUSPIDATE. (Incisiform teeth are typical of vegetable feeders.) Sometimes teeth arc compressed, but long and pointed with sharp edges. MOLARS are rounded teeth usually within the outer teeth in the jaws, and mostly they have smooth rounded crowns, sometimes so abundant as to form a sort of pavement in the jaws. They are primarily crushing teeth and indicate shellfish as one food. NOTE. — It is sometimes difticult to detect small teeth on the palatal bones or on the tongue, but they may usually be found by using a needle. mouth of a Bony Fish. 1. Premaxilla. 2. Maxilla (rarely toothed). 3. Vomer. 4. Palatine. 5. Pterygoid. 6. Pharyngeal. 7. Parasphenoid (rarely toothed). BRANCHIAL APPARATUS— GILLS The OPERCULUM or gill-cover is made up of 4 main bones more or less embedded in a single membrane. These are the OPERCLE, PREOPERCLE, SUBOPERCLE and INTEROPERCLE. In most fishes the operculum is quite free from the body, but in some the lower portion of the gill-membrane is joined to the ISTHMUS, which is the tapering front of the chest, when the gill-membrane is said to be ADN.ATE, and the gill-opening RESTRICTED. In a few fishes the gill-membranes may be almost entirely adnate, leaving only a small opening on each side. GILLS and GILL-RAKERS. Normally 'there arc four cartilaginous GILL-ARCHES. Below each arch are the red GILL-FIL.AMENTS with many blood vessels, while above are usually finger-like cartilaginous projections, either long or short, sometimes spiny, known as GILL-RAKERS. The figure below shows a typical gill-arch. Gill-rakers are often used by fishes as a sieving or straining mechanism, elaborately developed in some cases as in the MUGILIDAE (No. 877 on). The number of gill-rakers does Fig. I. .V PIC.4L GILL-ARCH. A. Gill-amh. B. Gill-rakers. C. Gill-filaments. 84 BONY FISHES— FEATURES not vary widely in any one species and is of use in diagnosis, the number of rakers on the lower limb of the outer arch normally being taken. On that part of the arch shown above there are 12 gill-rakers. In most fishes, to count gill-rakers the gill-cover may be lifted up when the outer arch and the rakers become visible, but when gill-membranes are adnate it is necessary to cut. BRANCHIOSTEG.4LS or branchiostegal rays are bony rays in the marginal gill-membrane (see 24, Fig. G, p. 81). They function much like the ribs of a fan. By their aid the operculum can be pulled tightly shut. When a fish expands the gill-covers to erect spines for protection (e.g. No. 401), the branchiostegals expand the membrane inwards to protect the gill-opening. PSELlDOBRANCHI.\E are vestigial gills sometimes present on the inner surface of the gill-cover. PYLORIC CAECA These are curious worm-like processes, usually in a bunch, at the hinder end of the stomach, normally interconnected by tissue, often fatty, whose precise function is not known. To find them, cut open a fish and look forward just above the liver. The number of caeca is supposed by some systematists to be of use in defining species. Pyloric caeca are usually rich in Vitamins A and D and tasty as food. SCALES Most Actinopterygian fishes bear scales of some kind, though a few have none. Scales are of 2 main kinds; the hind margin in CYCLOID scales being smooth, whereas in CTENOID scales it bears fine spiny points, like a comb. Scales are embedded in pockets in the skin, often only the thinnest layer covering them. When scales are easily shed they are termed CADUCOUS or DECIDUOUS, when firmly fi.xed they are ADHERENT. The number ot scales along the body, usually the number in the LATERAL LINE, is a distinctive character. Also the number across the body at the shoulder is of importance. Thus. L.l. 42, Tr. 3 9, indicate 42 scales in the lateral line from the shoulder to the base of the caudal fin. and 3 rows above and 9 below the lateral line near the shoulder. DIMENSIONAL RELATIONSHIPS Dimensional relationships are of importance because species do not vary very widely in shape or in the size of the various organs. The chief dimensions employed are shown in the figure below. < - - — > I Fig. J. TO SHOW THE CHIEF DIMENSIONS OF A BONY FISH. I. Eength of heati. 2. Depth of body. 3. Length of body. 4. Preorbital depth. 5. Snout. Also the diameter of the eye, and the distance between the eyes, (the interorbital) are used. In descriptions the relationships are expressed numerically. Thus when a fish has a body 3i times as long as deep (i.e. 3 and 2 in the figure above), it is said to have “ Depth 3.1 ”, which means that the Depth goes 3' times into the Length of the body. The more elongate a fish, therefore, the greater the depth number. ^ BONY FISHES— Families ALBUUDAE and ELOPIDAE 85 ORDER ISOSPONDYLI (99 162) Dorsal and anal fins without spines. Mostly typical fishes with scales well developed, almost all marine, though some enter estuaries. Most members show some primitive characters. In our area there are 21 families to which no key is given, since to be really satisfactory it would be too voluminous. The illustrations are, however, ample for all purpo.ses. Family ALBUI.IDAE BONE FISH Elongate body with silvery cycloid scales, none on head. Snout bluntly conical, mouth inferior, with minute teeth. Pelvics of 10-14 soft rays. A single median row of elongate scales along the back. Only one genus Albiila Scopoli, genotype Esox vulpes Linn. Some workers accept 2 species, but there is likely only one, found in all warm seas, freely entering estuaries and other inland waters. The synonymy is voluminous and not given here. 99. ALBULA VUl.PKS (Linnaeus). [AIhula conorhynchus Val.] Tarpon or Ladyfish (Natal). Bananafish. Bonefish (General). Literature L 3, 328, 697. t ig. 99. ALIiULA I'ULPES (Linn.). Actual length 13 ins. Body robust, sub-cylindrical, tapering both ends. Depth about 41. Interorbital equal to or greater than eye. D 15-17. A 8. L.l. 65-75. Tr. 8 12. Between the rays of the dorsal and anal the entire membrane is covered on each side by a long transparent scale. Adipose eyelids present. Snout rather pig-like, overhanging mouth. Small teeth on all the normal bones of the mouth. Pectorals low down. 8-10 short gill-rakers. Bright iridescent silvery. Attains 40 ins. Frequents sandy areas and mangrove swamps of warm seas. In our area, although reaching Algoa Bay, is rarely found south of Natal, where it is taken mainly on prawn or sea-lice bait. This is the BONE-FISH so eulogised by Zanc Grey, but in our waters which hold so many fine game fishes it does not stand out so markedly. The flesh is palatable but with numerous fine bones. The newly hatched young are ribbon-like and transparent, quite unlike the adult until 3 ins. long. Family ELOPIDAE Powerful, large-mouthed, scaly, carnivorous fishes of warm waters with minute teeth on all the normal bones of the mouth, and with a bony plate below the jaws. 10-16 rays in the pelvic. The newly hatched young is quite unlike the adult, being transparent and ribbon-like, but changes rapidly with growth. Two genera in our area. A. Last d(^rsal ray shortest ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Elops (100) B. Last dorsal ray elongated . ... . Mega/ops (\0\) 7 86 BONY FlSHES^Family ELOPIDAE Genus Elops Linnaeus, genotype Elops saurus Linn. Large elongate predatory fishes ol tropical seas, which enter tidal rivers and penetrate almost to fresh water, possibly to spawn. Several species have been described, but it is probable that there is only one. 100. ELOPS SAURUS Linnaeus. [Ehps nuuiuuita Forsk. Ehps capensis Smith. E/ops hawaiicnsis Rgn.] Wildevis (Mossel Bay-Knysna). Cape Salmon (Knysna-E. London). Skipjack (Transkci). IVIlakwe (Pondo). Springer (Natal). Tenpounder, Bonyfish or John Marrigle (America). Leack or Mondi (West Africa). Literature L 3, 328, 655, 697. Depth 5-6. Interorbital about equals eye. D 20-25. A 13-17. L.l. 100-120. Tr. 12 17. .Adipose eyelids present. Pectorals low down. 16-17 gill-rakers. Average 30 ins., attains 30 lbs. Found in most warm seas, in our area reaches as far south as Mossel Bay and penetrates well up most tidal rivers. One ol the best-known angling fishes of warmer seas, it fights gamely and jumps repeatedly, so that 2 out of 3 hooked generally break loose. In the southern Cape where it is present during the late summer months only, and not every year, it is hooked in tidal rivers mainly late at night, the favourite baits being prawn and a fillet ol fish, either floating or on the bottom. The flesh is disappointing, being insipid and full of fine bones. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Megalops Lacepede, genotype Megalops filamentosus Lac. Distinguished by the much elongated last dorsal ray. 2 species, both of warm waters, one a formidable angling fish of the Atlantic, Megalops atlanticiis, the true TARPON, which attains a weight of over 200 lbs., not found here. Our species is smaller. 101. MEG.ALOPS CYPRINOIDES (Broussonet). [Megahps filamentosus Lac. Rrishania slaigeri Cast.] Tarpon, Ladyfish or Bastard Mullet (Natal). Literature L 3, 31. 328, 521, 697. Fig. 101. MEGALOPS CYPRINOIDES (Brous). .Actual length 17 ins. Depth 3|. Interorbital less than eye. D 17-20, last ray elongate. A 24-31. L.l. 36-40. Tr. 6 8. .Adipose eyelids present. Attains at least 40 ins. An Indo-Pacific species which reaches our area and is found in Natal, though occasional strays wander to Algoa Bay. It favours estuaries and quiet waters where large specimens are often encountered, which prove formidable antagonists for the angler. The flesh is poor and bony. t PLATE 5 102. Gonorhynchus gonorhynchus, 18 ins. 104. Chirocemrus dorah, 30 ins. 115. Arengus sagax, 8 ins. 117. ^enla- lalosa nasus, ins. 121. Thrissocles malaharicus, 6 ins. 122. Thrissocles sefirosiris, 6 ins. 145. ChauHodus sloani, 9 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Families GONORH YNCHI DAE und CH/ROCENTR/ DA E 87 Family GONORHYNCHIDAE An elongate cylindrical body with a pointed snout, bearing a single median barbel, overhanging the mouth. Small ctenoid scales. There is a curious accessory gill structure of unknown function. Some workers accept 4 species, but it is probable that only one exists. A single genus, Gonorhynchus Gronow, from all but the warmest waters of all seas but the western Atlantic. 102. GONORHYNCHUS GONORHYNCHUS (Linnaeus). [Gonorhynchus f'reyi Rich, or gronovii Val.] Ratfish (S.A.). Sandcord (West Coast trawlers). Sandfish or Beaked Salmon (Australia). Literature L 3, 47, 93, 697. Plate 5, p. 87. Fig. 102. GONORHYNCHUS GONO RH Y NC H US Ahnn.). Actual length 15 ins. The young are slender, almost rod-like, the adult has depth about 8. D 1 1-13. A 9-10. Mouth small, lips thick, with papillae, no ordinary teeth. A barbel beneath the snout. Head and body covered with small ctenoid scales. Eyes below skin. A few short gill-rakers. Inside of mouth and gills purplish. Attains 24 ins. Found mainly on sand down to 80 fathoms, taken chielly by trawl, the young sometimes thrown ashore in bad weather. Probably spawns in fairly deep water. Occurs widely throughout most of the cooler Indo-Pacific, and is found over most of our area, nowhere abundant. Flesh edible but not valued, not commonly eaten in South Africa. For full information about any tish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family CHIROCEN IRIDAE Elongate, compressed body with thin scales easily shed. Large mouth set with great fangs. The intestinal lining has a rudimentary spiral structure suggestive of the spiral valve in CHON DRICHTH YES. Lower abdominal margin sharp. No lateral line. Only one genus, Chirocentrus Cuvier, genotype Eso.x chirocentrus Linn., with 2 large, fierce species of the Indo Pacific, both in our area. A. Depth 5-5J ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... nudus (103) B. Depth ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... dorah (104) 103. CHIROCENTRUS NUDl'S Swainson. [Chirocentrus hypselosoma Bleeker.] Wolf Herring. Literature L 19, 173, 281, 697. Depth 5-5 J. Interorbital less than eye. D 17-19. .A 31-33. Scales small, cycloid. No L.l. Eye below skin. 16-18 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. Nowhere abundant, but widespread in the central Indo-Pacific. Reaches as far south as Durban, much less common in our area than No. 104 which it resembles closely. 104. CHIROCENTRUS DORAB (Forskal). Wolf Herring. Dorab. Parang (Malay). Literature L 3, 47, 328, 521, 697. Plate 5, p. 87. Depth about 7. Interorbital less than eye. D 16-18. A 33-35. Scales small, cycloid. No L.L Eye below skin. 11 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ft. A tropical Indo-Pacific species which is found from the shore down to 60 fathoms, reaches rarely as far south as East London, fairly abundant in Delagoa Bay. A vigorous and vicious fish, large specimens most dangerous as theyjump about, for the fang-set mouth can inflict terrible wounds. Flesh tasty but bony. A common catch in fish-traps of tropical shores. 88 BONY FISHES— Families CHANIDAE and STOLEPHORIDAE Fa mi ly CHANIDAE Compressed, torpedo-shaped body, with small, regular grooved scales. Mouth small with no teeth. An accessory gill-structure present. Eye below skin. Pelvic of 10-11 soft rays. Only one genus, Chanos Lacepede with a single species from the tropical Indo-Pacific. 105. CHANOS CHANOS (Forskal). [Chanos sahnoneus Forster.] Milkfish (America). Bandang (East Depth 3|. D 14-16. A 8-10. Seales grooved, L.l. 78-90. Tr. 12 15. Greenish grey above, sides bright silvery, anal and caudal margins dusky. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific entering estuaries. In the East Indies the young are taken in the surf and kept in closed pools to grow for use as food, the flesh being highly esteemed. A vigorous fighter, prawn or fish fillet being preferred, but it is not often taken on our shores, then rarely south of Durban. Attains about 6 ft. Family STOLEPHORIDAE \^HITEBA^S Rather elongate body with belly rounded below. Scales easily shed, no lateral line. Mouth terminal, not large, small teeth sometimes on most bones. Small herring-like forms of the tropical Indo-Pacific, difficult to identify positively, a microscope necessary. 3 genera in our area. A. 7-13 anal rays. 1. 16-20 dorsal rays . Eirumcus (106) 2. 10-13 dorsal rays . Stolcphorus (107) B. 16-21 anal rays . Gilchrist clla (108) Genus Etrumeus Bleeker, 'genotype Clupea micropus Schl. Belly rounded. Dorsal origin well before pelvic origin. Few species, only one in our area. 106. ETRUMEUS MICROPUS (Schlegel). [Etrumeus jacksonensis Macleay.] Herring. Literature L 3 47, 194, 697. BONY FISHES— Family STOLEPHORl DAE 89 Depth 54-7. D 16-19. A 9-1 1. No lateral line, lateral series 48-56. Tr. 12-13 at dorsal origin backwards. 33-35 gill-rakers. A long scale within each pelvic. Silvery. Grows to 15 ins. Occurs throughout most of the tropical Indo-Pacific, including our area, rarely .seen south of Durban, odd migrants reach Algoa Bay, one from Knysna. Delicious eating, excellent bait. Genus Stolephorus Lacepede, genotype Allierina Japonica Houtt. Belly rounded. Dorsal base over pelvics. Anal short. Teeth mostly absent. A few silvery sitiall whitebaits of the tropical Indo-Pacific, only one in our area. 107. ST’OI.F.PIIORUS DELICATULUS (Bennett). [Spralelloicles delicalulus.] Whitebait. Literature L 47, .52, 302, 521, 697. F-ig. 107. STOLEPHORUS DELICATULUS (Benn.). After Bleeker, Depth 4 6. Interorbital less than eye. D 11 12. A 9 10. No L.I., scales in 32-36 series. Tr. 7-8. 21-30 gill-rakers. Lower jaw projects slightly. Brilliant silvery on side and below, back darker. Attains 4 ins. An Indo-Pacific species rare in our area, specimens wanted. Flesh red and tasty, much in demand in the East for savoury pastes. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Cilchristella Fmwicr. Belly rounded, but chest sharp before pectoral base. Dorsal origin behind pelvic origin. A single species found only on the south and east coast of Africa. 108. GII.CHRISTELLA AESTUARIL'S (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Spralelloicles aestuarius G. & T.] Whitebait. Shiner. Literature L 21, 31, 47, 697. F ig. 108. CILCHRISTELLA AESTUARIUS (G. & T.). Actual lengtFi 2) ins. Depth 4-5. Interorbital about .1 eye. Body strongly compressed, belly fairly rounded. D 14-16. A 18-21. No L.I., 38-40 lateral series of scales. Tr. 9. 35-40 gill-rakers. Lower jaw projects slightly. Silvery with yellowish tinge and a brilliant silvery lateral stripe. Attains 3 ins. Peculiar to South and East Africa, is found from the Cape to Madagascar, fairly abundant, usually in shoals, often isolated in vleis such as Princess Vlei at the Cape and Groen Vlei near Knysna, which have long been cut off from the sea. Much preyed on by fishes and birds. 90 BONY FISHES— Family CLUPEIDAE Family CLUPEIDAE HERRING-LIKE FISHES Body fairly elongate, sometimes compressed. Large mouth with feeble or no teeth. Scales thin and easily shed. Caudal forked. No lateral line. Adipose eyelids sometimes present. Many genera and species abundant in most seas, penetrating estuaries freely, valued as food and much preyed on by birds and other creatures. With oily, tasty flesh these rather feeble, inotfensive fishes are of great economic importance, especially in the northern hemisphere where they occur in vast numbers, chiefly the Herring, Sardine, Pilchard, Shad and Whitebait. We have only few of any size and only one occurs in fair numbers, but in the East Indies they are abundant and important as food. Positive identification in this group is difficult and the amateur should not be disheartened if he finds himself in difficulties as differentiation involves the use of a microscope and even experts sometimes disagree. 6 genera in our area. A. Anal of not more than 30 soft rays. 1. Body highly compressed. (a) Depth about 2J ... Macrura (109) (b) Depth 3-5. (i) Teeth present in each jaw. (.v) Pelvics before origin of dorsal Pellonulops (110) (r) Pelvics behind origin of dorsal llarcngula (1 1 112) (ii) No teeth in jaws ... Sardinella (1 3-114) 2. Body scarcely compressed Arengus (115) Anal of more than 30 soft rays . Pellona (116) Genus Macrura van Hasselt, genotype C/tipeo kelee Cuv. Body compressed, with scutes on lower sharp edge of belly. Close set numerous fine gill-rakers. Extensive adipose eyelids. 1 5-22 anal rays. No enlarged scales at caudal base. Small fishes of the coasts and tidal rivers of the Indo-Pacific, one species reaching Natal. 109. MACRUR.4 KELEE (Cuvier). [Clupea or Macrura kanagurta Bl. HUsa blochii Val. Macrura or Hil.sa durbanensis Rgn.] Herring or Flat Herring (Natal). Matabelo (East Indies). |Literature L 3, 47, 51, 550, 697, Depth 2|. Interorbital slightly greater than eye. D 16-18. A 18-22. No L.I., scales in 42-44 series. Tr. 12 14. Gill-rakers more than 100. Lower jaw folds into upper. Teeth absent. Attains 12 ins. Brilliant silvery. Dark spots more prominent in young, fade with age. An Indo-Pacific form, extends from China, not uncommon as far south as Durban, occasionally reaches Pondoland, taken mainly by shore nets. Flesh tasty but bony, often salted or smoked. Excellent bait. Genus Pellonulops now, genotype Spraie/loides madagascariensis Sauvage. Elongate sub-quadrangular compressed body with moderate scales. Belly keeled with scutes. No adipose eyelids. Fine teeth in each jaw, none on palate. Dorsal nearer caudal base than snout tip, behind pelvics. Anal fairly short. Fresh waters and estuaries of South and East Africa and Madagascar. Only one species. BONY FISHES— Family CLUPEIDAE 91 no. L 383. PEI>LONULOPS MADACASCARIENSIS (Sauvage). [Spratelloides madagascariensis.] Literature Fig. no. PELLONULOPS M A DAG ASCA RtEN SIS .). Actual length 2J ins. Depth about 5. Interorbital about I eye. D 15-16. A 18-19. Scales in 39-40 series. Tr. 10. About II spiny scutes before and 9 behind pelvics. 40-52 tine spiny gill-rakers. Translucent with silvery stripe along body. Attains 21 ins. Brackish waters, often in isolated salty lagoons, from the Cape to Madagascar. Genus Harengula Valenciennes, genotype Harenguki latulus Val. Body compressed with scutes on lower sharp edge of belly. Numerous fine long gill-rakers. Fine teeth in jaws. About 20 anal rays. No enlarged scales at caudal base. Small fishes of the coast and rivers of the Indo-Pacific, two species in our area, both uncommon. A. Less than 40 gill-rakers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ovalis (111) B. More than 40 gill-rakers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... vitiata (112) 111. MARENCiUI.A OVALIS (Bennett). [Ilarcngulu punctata Rupp. Harengula moluccensis Blkr.] Spotted Herring. Literature L 3, 161, 697. Depth 34. Interorbital less than eye. D 17 19. A 17-19. No L.I., scales in 42-44 series. Tr. 10-11. Scutes 16-20 before, 10-14 behind pelvics. 30-34 gill-rakers. Fine teeth on most bones of the mouth. Attains 5 ins. Silvery yellow, with 10-12 dark spots along the back. Abundant in whole Indo-Pacific, reaches our east coast as far south as Durban, but not common in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 112. MAREN(;ULA VLFFA'r.A (Valenciennes). Herring. Literature L 3, 697. Depth 3 J. Interorbital less than eye. D 16-17. A 18-19. No L.I., scales in 39-41 series. Tr. 12-13. Scutes 17 before, 12-13 behind pelvics. 50-60 gill-rakers. Fine teeth on most bones of the mouth. Attains 6 ins. Silvery. Occurs in central Indo-Pacific, reaches our east coast as far south as Durban, and not uncommon in our area. Genus Sardinella Valenciennes, genotype Sardi/ud/a auriia Val. Body compressed with scutes on lower sharp edge of belly. Adipose eyelids well developed. No teeth in jaws. Gill-rakers fine, numerous. No enlarged scales at caudal base. Small fishes with tasty flesh, of warm seas. Of numerous species][in the Indo-Pacific, only 2 found in our area, but others probably occur here. Also I Atlantic species. 1. 35-45 gill-rakers . melanura (113) 2. 50-65 gill-rakers . Jussieu (114) 3. 100-120 gill-rakers . aurita (114a) 92 BONY FISHES— Family CLUPEIDAE 113. SARDINELLA MELANURA (Cuvier). [C/upea atricaiiihi Gnthr.] Sardine. Tandipa (East Indies). Depth 4. Interorbital less than eye. D 15-16. A 18-19. No L.I., 39-42 series of scales. Tr. 11. Scutes 17 before, 12 behind pelvies. 35-45 gill-rakers. No teeth. Attains 6 ins. Mainly silvery. Occurs in central Indo- Pacific, abundant in Delagoa Bay. When startled jumps in and out of the water in repeated short hops. A whole shoal Jumping this way is a quaint sight. 114. S.ARDINELL.A JESSIEU (Lacepede). [Sanlinella or Harcngula gihhosa BIkr.] Sardine, reinbaiig (East Indies). Literature L 3, 54, 521, 697. Depth 3;). Interorbital less than eye. D 17-20. A 16-19. No L.I., scales in 44 48 series. Tr. 12. Scutes 17-19 before, 12-14 behind pelvies. 50-65 gill-rakers. No teeth. Attains 7 ins. Mainly silvery. Throughout most warm Indo-Pacific waters, occasional specimens reaching as far south as Natal, but rare in our area. 114a. SARDINELLA ALRITA Vale neiennes. Sardinha (Portuguese). Literature L 193, 510, 655. Depth about 4|. D 17-20. A 15-19. No L.I., 45-50 series of seales. Tr. 12. Scutes 19 20 before, 15-16 behind pelvies. 100-120 gill-rakers. Silvery. Attains 12 ins. .Atlantic, at times common about Walfish Bay, rarely to Saldanha Bay. A valued food-fish of West Africa. Genus .\rengus Cornide, genotype Arengus minor Corn. Body rather elongate, fairly robust, not much compressed, belly not sharp below, scutes feeble. Teeth usually absent. Enlarged scales at caudal base. Rather small fishes usually found in cooler waters, some of economic significance, one being the PILCHARD of Europe. Only one species in our area, occurring in fair numbers. 115. .ARENGUS S.AG.AX (Jenyns). [Sardina sagax. CInpea sagax. Sardina ocellcita Pappe.] Sardine. Sardyn. Pilchard. Literature L 3, 31, 93, 655, 697. Plate 5. p. 87. Depths. Interorbital equals eye. D 17-19. A 18-20. No L.I., 50-55 series of scales. Tr. 12. Scutes 18-20 before, 12-15 behind pelvies. 100-115 gill-rakers., long and slender. No teeth. .Attains 12 ins., average 7 ins. Occurs in the cooler waters of the Indo-Pacific from America westwards to the Cape, reaches to but not north of Durban, shore to 100 fathoms. Usually travels in shoals which may often be seen from the shore and innumerable birds and fishes travel with the sardines taking toll on the margins. ,A shoal may cover many square miles, and be so densely packed that big fishes dare not venture within the shoal or they are suffocated by the Sardines clogging their gills. Though usually several miles out, shoals are sometimes driven inshore, and numbers of Sardines wash up on the beach. At those times large fishes come into the surf and may be captured not only with sardine-baited hooks close in but are so crazed that they may be speared or clubbed in shallow water sometimes in numbers. This Sardine is one of the most tasty of fishes and is now the basis of a canning industry of some extent on our west coast where large numbers are taken. In some ways our fish resembles Arengus caendcus (Girard), the important California Sardine, which some authors consider distinct from sagax. Genus Pellona Valenciennes, genotype Pellona orhignyana Val. Body compressed, with scutes on lower sharp edge of belly. Anal long, more than 30 rays. No enlarged scales at caudal base. Fine teeth present. Small fishes of warmer waters, only one in our area, others in the Atlantic. BONY FISHES— Families DOROSO M ! DAE And ENGRAUUDAE 93 F16. PELLONA DITCHELA (Valenciennes). [Pellona hoevenii Blkr. Rellona or Ilisha natalensis G. & T.] Literature L 3, 14, 697. Fig. 116. PELI.ONA DITCHELA (Val.). Actual length 6 ins. Depth about 3. Interorbital about half eye. D 17-18. A 32-38. No L.I., 40-45 series of scales. Tr. 11-13. Scutes 16 20 before, 8 9 behind pelvics. 20-27 gill-rakers, fine but short. Adipose eyelids present. Fine teeth in jaws. Attains 8 ins., usually smaller. Mainly silvery. Central Indo-Pacific extending to Natal, sometimes in deeper water, not abundant in our area. Family DOROSO.MIDAE Oval, deep, compressed body with scutes on lower sharp edge of abdomen. Stomach gizzard-like. Small fishes of warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, often in tidal rivers, stated to feed mainly on mud. Not valued as food. Only one genus, Ncmatalosa Regan, genotype Clupca ncisus Blch., with a few species, only one in our area. 117. NEMAFALOSA NASUS (Bloch). [Dorosoma nasus.] Gi/.zard-Shad. Literature L 86, 697. Folate 5, p. 87. Depth 2J. D 15- 17, last ray prolonged. A 20-24. No L.I., 45-50 series of scales. Tr. 16-19. Scutes 16-19 before, 10-12 behind pelvics. Over 130 short gill-rakers. No teeth. Attains 10 ins., usually smaller. Mainly silvery. Central Indo-Pacific in warm shore waters. Only one specimen, 3.1 ins. in length, from Durban. More wanted. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family ENCRAUITDAE ANCHOV lES Body fairly elongate and compressed. Snout rounded, overlaps mouth, which is large, with maxilla sometimes very long. Teeth small or absent. Tongue free only at tip. No lateral line. Eyes completely covered by skin. Found mainly in warm seas, these small, more or less transparent fishes occur sometimes in great shoals. The flesh of some forms is dark and of delicious flavour, much used for savoury pastes. The identification of species is difficult even for the expert. 3 genera in our area. A. A marked silvery lateral stripe ... . Anchoviella (118-120) B. No marked silvery lateral stripe. 1. Body compressed, belly edge sharp... ... . ■ ■ • ■■ Thrissocles (121-122) 2. Body little compressed, belly edge rounded . EngrauUs (123) 94 BONY FISHES— Family ENGRAULIDAE Genus Anchoviella Fowler, genotype Engraulis perjasciatus Poey. Elongate body with snout overlapping large mouth. More or less transparent fishes of the Indo-Pacific with silvery lateral stripe. 3 species in our area. A. 4-5 sharp scutes before pelvics ... .. . indica (118) B. 6-8 sharp scutes before pelvics, none behind ... ... ... ... ... ... commersonii (119) C. 8-9 sharp scutes before pelvics, some behind . ... ... ... ... holoclon (120) 118. ANCHOVIELLA INDICA (van Hasselt). [Sto/cpiwnis or EngrauUs iiuliciis.] ,\nchovy. Puti (East Indies). Literature L 20, 328, 697. Depth 5. Interorbital less than eye. D 16. A 19-21. No L.I., 37-42 series of scales. Tr. 9. Scutes 4-5 before pelvics. 20-25 gill-rakers. Minute teeth on most bones of jaw. Maxilla reaches to margin of preopercle. Dusky on back, sides silvery with brilliant metallic lateral stripe. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, ascends rivers, has been found in Natal, but seldom seen in our area. Fig. IIS. ANCHOVIELLA INDICA (van H.). After Fowler. 119. ANCHOVIELLA COMMERSONII (Lacepede). [Eiignni/is conmursoiil.] Anchovy. Whitebait. Puti or Teri (East Indies). Literature L 328, 697. Fig. 119. ANCHOVIELLA COMMERSONII {U\c.). .^etuallcngth 4 ins. Depth about 5. Interorbital less than eye. D 15-16. A 20-22. No L.I., 37-40 series of scales. Tr. 9. Scutes 6-8 before pelvics, none behind. 19-26 gill-rakers. Fine teeth on most bones of jaw. Maxilla reaches margin of gill-cover. Dusky above, sides silvery with brilliant metallic lateral stripe. Attains 5 ins. Occurs in warm waters of the central Indo-Pacific, in our area not uncommon as far south as Durban. Excellent bait. 120. ANCHOVTELLA HOLODON ( Boulenger). [Stolephonis Iwlodon or extensus J. & S.] .Anchovy. Whitebait (Algoa Bay). Shiner. Literature L 3, 10, 31, 697. Depth 5L Interorbital less than eye. D 14-16. A 19-21. No L.I., 39-42 series of scales. Tr. 9. Scutes 8-9 before, 6-7 behind pelvics. 24-27 gill-rakers. Fine teeth in jaws. Maxilla reaches margin of gill-cover. Silvery blue above with brilliant silvery stripe. Attains 3 ins. Reported from Algoa Bay up our east coast to Mauritius. A doubtful species, probably identical with No. 119. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Thrissocles Jordan & Evermann, genotype Clupea setirostris Brouss. Body fairly elongate, compressed, with scutes on lower sharp edge of abdomen. A tiny spine before dorsal. Mouth below snout, maxilla much produced. No silvery stripe. Small fishes of the warmer Indo-Pacific, often in large shoals, which penetrate rivers. 2 species in our area. A. Maxilla reaches barely beyond pectoral base . malaharicus (121) B. Maxilla reaches well beyond pectoral base . . setirostris (122) ! PLATE 6 163 Plotosus anguillciris, 9 ins. 165. Tachysurus feliceps, 15 ins. 172. Synodus indicus, 10 ins variegatus 10 ins. 178. Trachinocephalus mvops, 8 ins. 183. Bathyptenns capensts. 8 ms. 185 gracilis, 10 ins. Actual length stated in each case. 174. Sy nodus Baihysauropsis . . - - . . s4j?^»• '■ .-i- ■■ i*-i;,T'Sv'.;v ■' ;, BONY FISHES— Family ALEPOCEPH AL! DAE 95 121. THRISSOCLES MALABARICUS (Bloch). [Thryssa or Enyraulis vitrirostris G. & T. Engraulis malaharicux.] Herring. Glass Nose. Bangkok (East Indies). Literature L 3, 43, 47, 328, 521, 697. Plate 5, p. 87. Depth 3.J. Interorbital equal to eye. D 1 ; 12-14. A 40-43. No L.I., 37-40 series of scales. Tr. II. Scutes 17-18 before and 9-10 behind pelvics. Maxilla reaches barely beyond pectoral base. 21-25 gill-rakers. Fine teeth in jaws. Attains 8 ins. From warm coastal waters of India and Ea.st Indies, penetrates our area as far as Port Alfred, rare there, but not uncommon in Natal waters. Excellent for eating and as bait, but rather small. 122. THRISSOCI.es SE I'IRO.STRIS (Broussonet). [Thryxsa setirostris. Engraulis xetirostris.] Herring. Glass Nose. Bangkok (East Indies). Literature L 3, 47, 281, 328, 521, 697. Plate 5, p. 87. Depth 4. Interorbital about equals eye. D I-FI3-16. A 33-38. No L.I., 40 44 series of scales. Tr. 11. Scutes 16-18 before, 8-10 behind pelvics. 10-12 gill-rakers. Maxilla reaches to or beyond pelvics. Pine teeth in Jaws. Attains 8 ins. Warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, reaches our east coast as far as Port St. Johns, rare there, more common northwards. Excellent eating and bait, but rather small. Genus Engraulis Cuvier, genotype Clupea encrassicholus Linn. Body barely compressed, belly rounded, not keeled. Maxilla not very long. No silvery stripe. Flesh dark and tasty. Small fishes of cooler waters of most seas, not many species, only one in our area. 123. ENfiRAUl.lS .lAPONICUS (Houttuyn). [Engraulis capensis Glch.] Anchovy. Ansjovie. Literature L 3, 31, 425, 697. Depth 6. D 14 16. A 18-20. No L.I., 40 45 series of scales. Tr. 6-8. 34—36 gill-rakers. No scutes, belly rounded. Maxilla not elongated. Teeth present. A skinny flap on each caudal lobe. Attains 5 ins. Found mainly in the colder waters of the Indo-Pacific, extends round to Port Nolloth down to 100 fathoms, but is not well known. Flesh dark and tasty. Obviously sought after by predatory fishes in deeper water as it is often found inside trawled fishes. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family AEEPOCEPHAI.IDAE Deep-sea fishes with compressed body, pointed snout and fairly large mouth set with feeble teeth. Fins without spines. Will not often be seen except in deep-sea hauls. Two genera in our area. A. Scales present . Alepocephalus (124) B. Scales absent ... ... ... ... ... ... .. ... Xenodermichthys (126) Genus Alepocephalus Risso, genotype Alepocephalus rostratus Risso. Body scaly, moderately compressed. Smallish fishes of deep water of most seas. Not very well known as specimens are usually damaged. The head is aiways darker than the body, almost black. 2 species in our area. A. 50-60 lateral line scales . australis (124) B. About 100 lateral line scales . harnardi (125) 96 BONY FISHES— Family ARGENTINIDAE 124. ALEPOCEPHALOS AUSTRALIS Depth about 5. D 16-17. A 16-17. L.l. 53-55. Tr. 13. 14 gill-rakers. Attains 13 ins. Head deep violet black, body lighter. So far known only from 600-700 fathoms off Cape Point. Will likely prove identical with rosHatus Risso. Specimens should be preserved. 125. ALEPOCEPHALUS BARNARDl Norman. Literature L 619. Previously wrongly identified as Batliytroctes rostratus Gunther. Depth 6. D 18. A 18. L.l. 100. 22 gill-rakers. Dark bluish black. Only one specimen known, 7 ins. in length, from 700 fathoms, off Cape Point. Genus Xenoderinichthys Gunther, genotype Xenodermichthys nodiilosus Gnthr. Compressed body without scales. Small papilliform photophores on belly and sides of head. Only 2 species, one from the Pacific, and one from the Atlantic, the latter in our area. Barnard. Literature L 1, 3. Fig. 124. ALEPOCEPHALUS AUSTRALIS Brnrd. Actual length 7 ins. 126. XENODERMICHTHYS SOCIALIS Vaillant. Literature L 3, 31. 371, 655. Depth 5. D 27-29. A 27-28. Photophores irregular, some on fins. Minute teeth in jaws. Attains 6 ins. Deep violet black, fins lighter, iris violet. In deep water of the Atlantic, has been taken in 300^00 fathoms off East London. Family ARGENTINIDAE SMELTS Elongate body with short pectorals low down. Adipose dorsal present. No spines in fins. Mouth moderate with small sharp teeth. Small fishes mainly of deep water, mostly of the northern hemisphere, closely related to the Salmon and Trout, some ascending rivers to spawn. The flesh is excellent. In our area only the genus .Argentina Artedi, with the type species from deep water, but rarely ever seen. 127. .ARGENTIN.A SPHYR.AEN.4 Linnaeus. Siilsmelt. .Argentin. Literature L 49, 394, 395. Fig. 127. ARGENTINA SPHYRAENA Linn. After Smitt. BONY FISHES— Family M ICROSTO M ! DAE 97 DcpthVi. D9-I2. A 11-13. L.l. 52-58. Tr. 7. 13-14 gill-rakers. Silvery, more or less transparent. Attains 12 ins. Occurs in deep waters of all oceans, also in the Mediterranean. In our area taken in 200 fathoms off Natal and Delagoa Bay. Rare. Specimens wanted. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family MICROSTOMIDAE Fairly elongate body with small mouth. Adipose dorsal present. Lateral line present, scales feeble, none on head. A family of small fishes, probably degenerate relatives of the Salmon group, all from deep to very deep water. 3 genera in our area. A. 7-10 rays in anal. 1. Pelvics before dorsal ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Rhynchohyalus (128) 2. Pelvics behind dorsal ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Bathymacrops (129) B. More than 15 rays in anal . Bathyla^us (130) Genus Rhynchohyalus Barnard, genotype the single species. Body compressed. Snout long, rounded, transparent. Eyes probably telescopic. Anal short. Pelvics elongate. Only one species, found only in our area. 128. RMYNCHOHYAEUS NATAI,ENSIS (Gilchrist & von Bonde). [ffyalorhynclius nafalen.sis.] Litera¬ ture L 3, 49. Depth 4. DIO. A 7. Pelvics of 1 2 elongate rays. L.l. 41. Only one specimen 63 ins. long from 135 fathoms olT Table Bay. Genus Bathymacrops Gilchrist, genotype the single species. Body compressed. No teeth in upper jaw. Large eye. Anal short. The single species so far found only in our area. 129. BATHYMACROPS MACROLEPIS Gilchrist. Literature L 39, 49. Fig. 129. BATHYMACROPS MACROLEPIS Glch. Actual length 4i ins. Depth about 7. D 9. A 9-10. L.L 50. Tr. 8. Uniform brown. Attains 43 ins. Found in 240-260 fathoms off Natal and Delagoa Bay. Genus Bathylagus Gunther, genotype Bathylagus antarcticus Gnthr. Body compressed. Feeble teeth in upper jaw. Large eye. Anal rather long. Small fishes from the depths of southern waters. One species in our area. 130. BATHYl.AGUS ANTARCTICUS Gunther. Literature L 462. Fig. LtO. BATHYLAGUS ANTARCTICUS Gnthr. Actual length 2} ins. Depth 7. D 9-10. A 18-22. L.L 45. Uniform blackish brown. Attains 6 ins. Found in 1,000-2,000 fathoms off our south coast, known from those depths over a wide area of southern seas. 8 98 BONY FISHES— Family STOMIATIDAE Family STOMIATIDAE Elongate body with rather short head, but an enormous fang-lined mouth and distensible stomach. Usually a long barbel below the chin. Scales small or absent. Lateral line may be present. Photophores usually present. Rather degenerate, usually black, snake-like small fishes of deep water. Like many of their type they live in almost total darkness. The photophores or phosphorescent organs emit quite bright light. Found in all seas. There are 6 genera in our area. A. Fine scales present Stomias (131) B. Body naked. 1. Gill-rakers normal. (u) Teeth simple . Haplostomias (132) (h) Teeth double pointed . ...Melanostomias (\1,'S) 2. Gill-rakers absent or very feeble. (a) Anal origin far before dorsal origin . Eu.stomias (134) (b) Anal origin about opposite dorsal origin. (i) Upper pectoral ray elongated . Eebiostoma ( 1 35) (ii) Lowest pectoral ray elongated ... Oposlomias (136) Genus Stoniias Cuvier, genotype Esox boa Risso. Elongate compressed body with thin hexagonal scales, not overlapping. Barbel present. Large mouth with long teeth. No lateral line. About 10 species known, all from deep water, in most seas. One in our area. 131. STOMIAS BOA (Risso). Literature L 394, 462, 504, 642. Fig. 131. STOMIAS BOA (Risso). After Goode & Bean. Depth about 14. D 17-19. A 19-21. Scales in about 75 series. Barbel as long as head, tip with 3 filaments. One photophore below eye, a row on side of head, 2 rows of photophores along lower side, about 85 in lower series. Brown to black. Attains 8 ins. Widely distributed in most seas in 500-2,500 fathoms, has been found in 1,000 fathoms off Cape Point. Genus Haplostomias Regan & Trewavas, genotype Haplostomias tentaculaim R. & T. Naked elongate body. Long barbel present. Gill-rakers present. Teeth simple. 2 species, 1 in our area. 132. H.\PLOSTOMI.4S TENT.4CUL.4TUS Regan & Trewavas. Literature L 7, 621. Fig. 132. HAPLOSTOMIAS TENTACULATUS R. & T. After Regan & Trewavas. Depth variable, 6-9. D 16-18. A 18-20. Barbel about twiee head length with bulb at end. Black, bulb on barbel orange. Attains 10 ins. An Atlantic species found oflf Table Bay in 185 fathoms. Genus Melanostomias Brauer, genotype Melanostomias valdiviae Brauer. Elongate, naked body. Long barbel. Gill-rakers normal. A dozen species known from deep water of all oceans, only one in our area. BONY FISHES— Family STOMIATIDAE 99 133. MELANOSTOMIAS NIGER (Gilchrist & von Bonde). Literature L 49. Depth about 10. Interorbital just greater than eye. D about 14, A about 18. 10 gill-rakers, small bifid spines. Photophores in 2 rows, 41 in upper and 54 in lower. Uniform black. A single specimen 9| ins. in length taken in 130 fathoms off Table Bay. Genus Eustomias Vaillant, genotype Eustomias ohscurus Vaillant. Elongate compressed body, naked skin, with 2 rows of photophores on lower side. Few pectoral rays. No gill-rakers. About 5 species known from deep waters of the Atlantic, only one in our area. 1.34. EUSTOMIAS EILIEERUM (Gilchrist). [Ncostomias jUifenm.] Literature L 30. Pig. 134. EUSTOMIAS EILIEERUM (Glch.). After Gilchrist. Depth about 1 1. D 22. A 40. Pectoral of only one short ray. Anal originates well before dorsal. Barbel reaches dorsal origin, 3 filaments in 1st third of length, and an apical bulb with short filaments. 2 rows of photophores from opercle to anal, a single row behind anal origin, about 57 as far as anal origin. Black. Only one specimen, 9 ins. long, in 660 fathoms off Cape Point. Genus Echiostoma Lowe, genotype Echio.stoma harhatwn Lowe. Compressed elongate body, naked. Barbel present. Dorsal and anal opposite. Gill-rakers minute or absent. 2 rows of photophores along lower side of head and body. Several species described, but probably all the same. One in our area. 1.35. ECHIOSTOM.A B.ARB.ATUM Lowe. [Echiostoma tanneri Gill.] Literature L 7, 394, 612, 621. Depth about 7. D 12-16. A 15-19. About 8 minute gill-rakers. Barbel shorter than head with 2 apical bulbs and some filaments. About 63 photophores in lower series on body. Dark black with pale-centred black dots on head and along side in a band. Attains 12 ins. Known from deep water of the Atlantic, has been found off Table Bay. Genus Opostomias Gunther, genotype Echiostoma macripnus Gnthr. Elongate compressed naked body. Barbel present. Dorsal and anal about opposite. Gill-rakers feeble. 2 rows of photophores along lower side of body. Lowest pectoral ray elongated. Most fangs fixed, one each side depressible. Few species from deep water of the Atlantic, one in our area. 100 BONY FISHES— Families M ALACOSTEI DAE and STYLOPHTH ALM I DAE 136. OPOSTOMIAS GIBSON-PACEI Barnard. Literature L 7a. Depth about IL D 23. A 25. Barbel about I ' times head, with apical bulb and filaments. About 30 photophores in lower series on body. Black, a silvery photophore below eye. Attains 18 ins. So Eir found only north-west of the Cape in deep water. Looks something like Fig. 133. Family MALACOSTEIDAE Compressed naked body with large mouth and blunt snout. Belly distensible, the head able to move vertically as if free below and hinged at the nape. Strange fishes of deep water. Only one genus in our area, Malacosteus Ayres, genotype Malacosteus niger Ayres. One species in South Africa. 137. MAL.ACOSTEUS INDICUS Gunther. [Malacosteus /tiger Ayres.] Literature L 39, 374, 462. 621. Fig. I.t7. MALACOSTEUS DICES Gnthr. .After Gunther. Depth about 7. Lower jaw 3i in body length. D 20. A 18-20. Photophores on body beneath the skin, those on head tree. Black, luminous patches on head red or green. Attains 5 ins. An Indian Ocean species taken at 1,000 fathoms off Cape Point. Family STYLOPHTHALMIDAE Long, compressed body with normal fins, but pelvics absent. Eyes on long transverse stalks, shorten with age. No scales, photophores present. Puzzling small fishes from deep water, possibly juveniles, the adults may be as yet unknown. These curious fishes are here given family rank. One genus, Stviophthalmus Brauer. as yet only one species admitted, found in all oceans. 138. STYLOPHTHALMUS PARADOXUS Brauer. Literature L 462, 547. Fig. 138. STYLOPHTHALMUS PARADOXUS Brauer. Redrawn after Brauer. head^lTrn ^ ^''i ^^arp teeth in jaws. Photophores present, 14 on head, 0 to pectoral, 60 from pectoral to anal origin and 10-12 beyond. Anal entirely behind dorsal. Apparently colourless. Auains Ij ms. In 700 fathoms and deeper in all oceans, sometimes near the surface at night. Taken in our area off Cape Point at 100 fathoms. Any specimens found should be preserved. BONY FISHES— Families ASTRON ESTH! DAE and IDIACANTHIDAE Family ASTRONESTHIDAE 101 Elongate, compressed naked body with large mouth set with long fangs. A barbel beneath the chin. Photophores along lower flanks. Small fishes of deep water of all oceans, sometimes rise to the surface at night. genera known. In our area only one, Astronesthes Richardson, genotype Astronesthes nigra Rich., with 3 species in our seas. A. 10-11 dorsal rays. 1. 14-15 anal rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... richanlsoni (139) 2. 27 anal rays . capensis (140) B. L5-I6 dorsal rays . houlengeri (141) 139. ASTRONESTHES RICHARDSONI Poey. [Borostomias richardsoni.] Literature L 49, 394, 462, 617. Fig. 139. ASTRONESTHES RICHARDSONI Poey. After Goode & Bean. Depth about 6. Dll. A 14-15. No vomerine teeth. Teeth widely spaced on maxilla. Black. Attains 13 ins. In the depths of all oceans, has been found off the Cape and near Port Alfred in close on 1,000 fathoms. 140. A.STRONES'FHES CAPEN.SIS Gilchrist & von Bonde. Literature L 49. Depth about 6. D 10. A 27. Dorsal originates well behind pelvics. Photophores, isthmus to pectoral 14, then 13 to pelvic, 15 to anal and 17 beyond. Barbel just longer than head. Black. A single specimen 7 ins. in length in 790 fathoms offTable Bay, since apparently lost. A doubtful species. A 27 possibly a misprint for A 17 in the original description. 141. A.STRONESTHES BOL’LENGERI Gilchrist. Literature L 3, 25, 617. Depth about 6. D 15-16. A 15. Dorsal inserted immediately behind pelvic, anal behind dorsal. Adipose dorsal above end of anal. A small spine above eye. Barbel short. 2 rows of photophores low on side. Some luminous light patches on hind part of body. Black. Attains 9 ins. Only 2 specimens ever found, one off the Cape, the other off East London, in 4(X)-500 fathoms. Eor full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Eamily and read there also. Eamily IDIACANTHIDAE Slender eel-like flabby body without scales. Relatively large head with enormous mouth filled with large barbed fangs. A barbel beneath the chin. Dorsal and anal long. 2 rows of photophores, low on side, upper from head to caudal, lower shorter. Curious snake-like creatures of great depths, not likely to be seen except that they snap at anything, and once the teeth are driven home they cannot easily be loosened. Sometimes, therefore, these creatures are found dead with jaws locked in the bodies of larger fishes. Only one genus, Idiacanthus Peters, genotype Icliacanihus fasciola Peters, with 3 species in our area. A. Pelvics in advance of dorsal . . ... ... niger (142) B. Pelvics below or behind dorsal origin. 1. 15-18 photophores from pelvics to anal origin ... . ... ... fasciola (143) 2. 22 photophores from pelvics to anal origin ... . atkmticus (144) 102 BONY FISHES-^Families CHAUUO DONTf DAE and GONOSTOMIDAE 142. IDIACANTHUS NIGER Regan. Literature L 535, 536, 621. Fig. 142. I DI ACANTHUS NIGER Rgn. .Actual length 9 ins. Depth about 20. D 53-60. A 34-38. Pelvics in advance of dorsal, ] nearer anal origin than snout tip. 20-21 photophores from pelvic to anal origin. Black. Attains 15 ins. At depths to 3,000 fathoms off New Zealand and Chile. One found in the gills of a John Dory (No. 270) trawled in 150 fathoms off Algoa Bny. 143. IDIACANTHUS FASCIOLA Peters. [Idicicanlhiis ferox Gunther.] Literature L 31, 329, 367, 621. Depth about 24. D 54-74. A 38-49. Pelvics below lst-8th dorsal ray. 15 18 photophores from pelvic to anal origin. Barbel 2-21 times head. Black. .Attains 11 ins. In great depths of most seas, has been found off the Cape. 144. IDIACANTHUS ATLANTICUS Brauer. Literature L 462. 621. Depth about 24. D 54. A 35. Pelvics below front of dorsal. 22 photophores from pelvic tn anal origin. Black. Attains 8 ins. So far found only in 600-2.000 fathoms off the west coast of South Africa. Poorly known. Probably the same as No. 143. Family CHAULIODONTIDAE Elongate body with large head and big tail. Large mouth with great fangs. Large thin angular scales. Photophores in 2 ventral rows. Small fishes of deep water in all but the coldest seas, some rise to the surface at night. 7 genera known, only one in our area, Chauliodiis Schneider, genotype the single species. 145. CHAULIODUS SLOANT Schneider. Literature L 3, 31, 394, 462, 521, 617. Plate 5, p. 87. Depth about 8. D 6-7. All-13. Adipose dorsal present. L.l. 53-60. Tr. 7, at dorsal origin. 14 15 gill- rakers. Photophores small. Attains 9 ins. In deep water of most oceans, in 300-1,000 fathoms off most of our area, sometimes found at the surface at night. Family GONOSTOMID.AE Elongate body with thin scales. Pseudobranchiae absent. Sometimes large teeth. Photophores present. Long, thin gill-rakers. Rather small fishes of deep water, some rising to the surface at night, not often seen by any but the expert seeking them, one or two occasionally thrown up dead. Several genera. 4 in our area. A. 16-20 anal rays B. More than 20 anal rays. 1. Dorsal origin not before anal origin 2. Dorsal origin before anal origin. (a) Dorsal ends above anal (b) Dorsal ends before anal Cyclothone f i 46- 1 50) Gojwstoma (151) Yarrella ( 1 52) Photichthys (153) BONY FISHES— Family GONOSTOM/DAE 103 Genus Cyclothone Goode & Bean, genotype Cychthone lu.sca G. & B. Elongate body, naked or with thin scales. Large mouth with fine teeth. No adipose dorsal. Degenerate smallish fishes of deep water, closely related. a number of species, many almost certainly “ artificial ”, 5 in our area. A. Photophores present. 1. Light with dark speckles . signata (146) 2. Generally dark. (a) Teeth equal . acclinidens (147) (6) Teeth unequal. (i) 16-18 anal rays . Uvula (148) (ii) 19-20 anal rays . microdon (149) B. No photophores . . ■ . ohscura (150) 146. CYCLOTHONE SIGNATA Garman. Literature L 462, 521. Depth about 6.1. D 13-14. A 19-20. No scales. No teeth on vomer. Photophores present; 2 on operculum, 9-10 on branchiostegals, 7 above pectoral to pelvic, 13 on chest to pelvic, then 3-4 to anal origin and 13-14 more to caudal. Dorsal and anal origins opposite. Pale with dark specks. Attains 1 1 ins. In deep water of most seas, olT our south coast in 300 1,500 fathoms. 147. CYCLOTHONE ACCLINIDENS Garman. Literature L 3, 462, 521, 655. Depth about 7. D 13 14. A 18-20. Large scales, Tr. 4-5. 4-5 teeth on vomer. Photophores indistinct, 10 on branchiostegals, 7-8-(-2 above pectoral to pelvic, 13-14 on chest to pelvics, then 4 to anal origin and 14 16 more to caudal. Brown, black below. Attains 18 ins. In deep water of most oceans, off Cape Point in 600-1,0(X) fathoms. 148. CYCLOI'HONE LIVIDA Brauer. Literature L 462, 655. Depth about 6.1. D 13-15. A 16-18. Large scales, Tr. 6. 5-6 teeth on vomer. Photophores small but distinct, 10 on branchiostegals, 7 • 1 above pectoral to pelvic, 13 on chest to pelvic, then 5 to anal origin and 14- 1 5 more to caudal. A light patch at caudal base. Dorsal and anal origins opposite. Blue-black. Attains 16 ins. In most oceans up to 2,000 fathoms, off our south coast in 1,100 fathoms. 149. CYCLOTHONE MICRODON (Gunther). Literature L 374, 462, 521, 547, 655. Fig. 149. CYCLOTHOSt: MICRODOS (Gnthr.l. Actual length 21 ins. Depth about 7.1. D 13 -14. A 19-20, Large scales, Tr. 4. 4-5 teeth on vomer. Photophores faint, 9-10 on branchiostegals, 7-r 1 above pectoral to pchic, 13 on chest to pelvic, then 5 to anal origin and 14-15 more to caudal. Dark brown. Attains at least 24 ins. In deep water of most oceans, off our south coast m 1,000-1,500 fathoms. Probably identical with No. 147. 150. CYCLOTHONE OBSCURA Brauer. Literature L 462, 655. Depth about 7. D 13-15. A 17-19. Large scales. Tr. 5-6. 5 teeth on vomer. Photophores virtually obsolete, a few spots on branchiostegals. Dorsal and anal origins opposite. Brown to black. Attains 24 ins. In depths of most seas. 104 BONY FISHES—Family GONOSTOMIDAE Genus Gonostoma Rafincsque, genotype Gonostoma denudatum Raf. Elongate body, naked, rarely with thin scales. Large mouth with fine unequal teeth and larger canines. Adipose dorsal present, except for that rather like Cyclothone. Small fishes of deep water of most oceans, only one species in our area. 151. GONOSTOMA BATHYPHILUM (Vaillant). Literature L 3, 31, 644. Previously wrongly identified as Gonostoma grandis Coll. Fig. 152. YARRELLA CORYTHAEOLA lAIck.). .Actual length 6-1 ins. Depth about 6.E D 11-12. .A 24-32. 12 gill-rakers. Colour probably dusky silvery. Widespread but rare in the Indo-Pacific. taken off Natal in 200 fathoms. Attains 10 ins. Genus Photichthys Hutton, genotype the single species. Elongate compressed body with thin scales. W hole dorsal in front of anal. No barbel. Photophores present. Only one species from deep water of the Indo-Pacitic. 153. PHOTICHTHYS ARGENTEUS Hutton. Literature L 39. 309. 367, 394, 462, 644. Fig. 153. PHOTICHTHYS ARGENTEUS Hutton. Actual length 5 ins. Fig. 151. GONOSTOMA BATHYPHILUM (Vaill.). Alter Cioode A Bean. Depth about 7J. D 12-13. A 21-22. No scales. 1 .3-16 gill-rakers. 1-2 feeble teeth on vomer. Photophores feeble. Black. Attains 7 ins. In deep water of the Atlantic, off Cape Point in 800 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Yarrella Goode & Bean, genotype YarrcUa h/ackfordi G. & B. Elongate compressed body with thin scales, easily shed. Dorsal originates before anal, latter long. Teeth feeble. Photophores distinct. 2 species of of moderate depths, one in our area. 152. YARRELLA CORYTHAEOL\ (Alcock). [Photichthys corythacohis. Yarrella hlackfordi G. & B., or africana Glch. Polymetme corythaeola or australis MeC.j Literature L 7, 49, 644. BONY FISHES— Family MAUROLICIDAE 105 Depth about 6J. D 12-13. A 23-26. 11 gill-rakers. L.l. about 50. Lower photophores 10-11 before pectoral, 14-15 pectoral to pelvic, 15-16 thence to anal origin, and 16-18 more to caudal base, 33 in upper series. Silvery yellow, brown above, photophores green in life. Attains 12 ins. Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, deep water, taken olT Cape Point, 290-1,000 fathoms. Sometimes thrown ashore after storms at sea. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family MAUROLICIDAE Fairly compressed long body with thin scales. Pseudobranchiae present. Fairly large mouth with fine teeth. Photophores present. No barbel. Small fishes of fairly deep water, rise to the surface at night, sometimes thrown ashore after storms. Not many genera, 3 in our area. A. Depth 10 or more ... ... . Diplophos (154) B. Depth 4-8. 1. Depth about 4. A 23-27 . Maurolicus (155) 2. Depth 5-8. A 14-15 . Vindnguerria {\56-\ 57) Genus Diplophos Gunther, genotype Diplophos taenia Gnthr. Almost ribbon-like elongate body with large thin scales. Large mouth with small teeth. No barbel. Only one small species. 154. DIPLOPHOS TAENIA Gunther. Literature L .39, 374, 462, 644, 655. f ig. 154. DIPLOPHOS TAENIA Cinthr. After Gunther. Depth 10-16. D8-11. A 55-63. L.l. about 90. Tr. 7. Photophores distinct. Brown. Attains 2| ins. In deepish water of most oceans, has been found off Natal in 250 fathoms. Genus Maurolicus Cocco, genotype Scopelus amethystinopimctatus Cocco. Fairly compressed body with large thin scales, easily shed. Photophores present in groups in 2 series, but difficult to see when scales shed. No barbel. Only one species, widespread. 155. MAUROLICUS MUELLERl (Gmelin). [Scopelus or Maurolicus amethyst inopunctatus Cocco. Maurolicus borealis Nillson, or pennanti Walb., or australis Hector or Japonicus Ich.] Literature L 3, 31, 394, 403, 644, 655. Hig. 155. MAUKOLtCUS MUtl.LEK! tOmel.l. Actual length 2 ins. Depth about 4. D 9-12. A 23-27. 9 photophores in upper row to above pelvic. Silvery, greenish blue above. Attains 3 ins. As the synonyms show is a widely distributed, not uncommon, somewhat variable small fish, by day in deepish water, rises to the surface at night, quite often thrown ashore after storms. Found at several points on our coast from the Cape eastwards. 106 BONY FISHES- Family STERNOPTYCHI DAE Genus Vincinguerria Jordan & Everniann, genotype MauroUcus attenuatus Cocco. Elongate compressed shiny body with thin scales. Jaws large v/ith small unequal teeth. Teeth on vomer. Photophorcs prominent. Tiny fishes of deep water, rise to the surface at night, often thrown ashore. Several species, 2 in our area. A. 13-15 gill-rakers . scmzoi (156) B. 18-20 gill-rakers . hicciia (157) 156. VINCINGUERRIA SANZOI Jespersen & Taning. Literature L 21, 644, 655. Depth about 5. D 14-15. A 13-15. 13-14 gill-rakers. A pair of photophores at front of lower jaw, 23 -25 in upper series on side. Brilliant blue silvery, indigo above. .Attains 2 ins. ,^n Atlantic species from fairly deep water, rises to the surface at night. Thrown up after storms, has been found from East London to Dclagoa Bay 157. \TNCINGUERRL\ LUCETI.\ (Garman). Literature L 87, 521, 644, 655. Very close to No. 156, differs in having D 13-14, A 14-16, 18-20 gill-rakers and 20-22 photophores in upper series. Silvery, bluish above. Attains 3 ins. Occurs in all oceans, one specimen found at Inhaca Island in Delagoa Bay. Family STERNOPTYCHinAE HATCHET EISHES Short compressed deep body, either tapering behind or abruptly constricted. Mouth very oblique with small teeth. No barbel. Large eyes, sometimes telescopic. Scales absent or easily shed. Large luminous organs on lower part of body. Various spiny projections. Adipose dorsal present. Quaint silvery small fishes of deep water of most oceans. 3 genera in our area, though a 4th. Wilenciennellus J. & E., distinguished by elongate body, depth over 3, is sure to be found also. A. Eyes normal. 1. An erect bony plate before dorsal . Sternoptvx (158) 2. No erect bony plate before dorsal . Polyipnus (159) B. Eyes telescopic, directed upwards, close together . iryyropelecus (160 162) Genus Sternoptvx Hermann, genotype Sternoptvx diaphana Herm. Short compressed body, hinder part rather abruptly narrower. A single erect triangular bony plate before dorsal. Eyes normal. Only one species. 158. STERNOPTVX DIAPHANA Hermann. Literature L 3, 49, 367, 462, 521, 655. Shape and proportions rather variable, depth about body length. An unmistakable form with the larae bony plate before the soft dorsal, which has 9-12 rays. A 12-14. Silvery, indigo above. Attains 2 ins. In the deeps of all oceans, taken off Cape Point up to 1,(X)0 fathoms. Genus Polyipnus Gunther, genotype Polyipnus spinosus Gnthr. Deep compressed body, not abruptly constricted, tapering almost uniformly behind. Eyes normal. No true spinous dorsal nor large erect plate before soft dorsal, but a small backwardly directed pair of spines from head shield. Onlv one species from deepish water of tropical seas. As this form is variable the synonymy is extensive, and not given here. BONY FISHES— Family STERNOPTYCHI DAE 107 159. POEYIPNUS SPINOSUS Gunther. Literature L 3, 49, 462, 521, 655. Depth about FJ-l §, body barely constricted behind. D 12-14. A 14-18. Hind photophores from anal to caudal variable, continuous or in groups. Strong downwardly directed spine at angle of preopercle. Iridescent silvery, indigo above. Attains 4 ins. A surprisingly abundant small shiner of the depths of all oceans, probably occurs in vast shoals. Taken at several points from the Cape to Natal up to 650 fathoms. Rises to the surface at night. Fig. 159. POLY/PNUS SPINOSUS Gunther, Actual length 21 ins. Fig. 160. ARGYROPELFX'US HEMIGYMNUS Cocco. Actual length 1 1 ins. Genus Argyropelecus Cocco, genotype Ar^yropelecus hcmif’ymnus Cocco. Compressed deep body, abruptly constricted behind pectoral tip. Mostly a distinct spinous dorsal of about 7 spines. Eyes telescopic, directed upwards. One or 2 spines at angle of preopercle. A number of species in most oceans, 3 in our area. A. Depth li-2. 1. Anal 6 i 4-5 . hemiyymnus (160) 2. Anal 7-r5 . olfersi (161) B. Depth 2^ . affinis (162) 160. AR(;YR()PELECTJS ME.MICYMNUS Cocco. Literature L .3, 31, 462, 655. (Fig. 160 above). Depth l^'-2. D Vl-X • 7-10. A 6-F4-5. 11-13 gill-rakers. Hind photophores in 3 groups. An elegant small fish, typically “ Hatchet "-shaped. Bluish above, silvery below. Attains 1 2 ins. Most abundant in oceans about Africa, not uncommon off the Cape in 600 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 161. ARGYROPELECUS OLFERSI (Cuvier). Literature L 3, 462, 521, 655. Depth about Iv;, body not as deeply constricted as No. 160. D VII — 9. A 7-r5. Hind photophores in 3 groups. Projecting spines and colour much as in No. 160. Attains 4 ins. Occurs in deep water of most oceans, taken olf the Cape in 500 fathoms. 162. ARGYROPELECUS AFFINIS Garman. Literature L 418, 462. 655. Depth 2|-2 = , body with slight constriction behind, tapers almost evenly. D VII- 9. A 7 - 6. Hind photo¬ phores continuous from anal to caudal. Projecting spines much as in No. 160. Silvery sheen on body, back indigo. Attains 3.j ins. In deep water of most oceans, taken off our west coast in 1,000 fathoms. ORDER NE.M.VrOGN.ATHI (163 165) Fairly elongate slimy body without scales. Fin spines if present only single in dorsal and pectoral. Pectorals low. Front four vertebrae joined together, with a chain of small bones connecting air-bladder and auditory organ, known as Weberian apparatus. Over a thousand species mostly in fresh water, the “ Cat-fishes ” or " Barbels ” are well known, and some attain a great size, but only few are marine. The barbels are used as feelers. 2 families in our seas easily distinguished by the shape of the body and of the caudal. 108 BONY FISHES— Families PLOTOSIDAE and TACHY^VR/DAE Family PLOTOSIDAE Elongate eel-like body tapering to a point. No scales. 4 pairs of barbels, A serrated spine in of 1st dorsal and one in each pectoral. In a pit behind the vent is an arborescent organ which is connecte y a tendon to the vertebral column, so that it is apparently movable, but its function is unknown. Mostly marine species, some living in estuaries. In our area only one genus, Plotosus Lacepede, genotype Plotosus angitillans Bloch, with one species. 163. PLOTOSUS ANGUILLARIS (Bloch). [P/otovi/.v r/railj Blkr. or /w/n/ow« Barbel-eel. Barber. Nkunga (Native). Literature L 3, 328, 489, 521, 697. Juvenile, Plate 6, p. 94. Fig. 163, PLOTOSUS ANGUILLARIS IBI.). Actual length 17 ins. Depth about 7. D 1 5, plus many. Total rays D-pA less than 200. 22-24 gill-rakers. 4 pairs of barbels. Conical rather blunt teeth in jaws, easily shed. The young have light bands along the brownish body. Attains 30 ins. Occurs throughout the central Indo-Pacific, extends as far as Knysna, more abundant eastwards. A not uncommon catch on lines, taking almost any bait. Should be handled with great care as the serrated dorsal and pectoral spines inflict most dangerous and painful wounds (treatment, see p. 24). From East London northwards one may find the young hiding in weeds in tide pools. Occurs in great numbers in weed-covered reefs of warm seas, dreaded by those who hunt in such places as they are not easy to see. and in the tropics the wounds quite often prove fatal. Despite the repulsive appearance of the fish, the flesh is excellent and wholesome. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family TACHYSLRIDAE Elongate body without scales, caudal forked. 3 pairs of barbels. A serrated spine in front of 1st dorsal and in each pectoral. Adipose dorsal present. Mostly marine species, some in estuaries. Dangerous fishes, as the serrated spines inflict painful lacerated wounds which have caused death. There are no poison glands, but the mucus on the spines is toxic. Eor treatment of wounds see p. 24. Despite the repulsive appearance of these fishes the flesh is wholesome and tasty. The eggs are fairly large, about as big as peas, and are carried in the mouth of the male until they hatch, and for some time after that the young seek shelter there. In times of stress the male swallows at least some eggs, and while it is possible that he may be able to regurgitate them later, their presence in his abdomen has puzzled many people. Only one genus, Tachysurus Lacepede, genotype Eaclivsurus sinensis Lac., with numerous species, only 2 in our area. A. Teeth on palate in 2 groups . dussumieri (164) B. Teeth on palate continuous ... . . ... . feliceps (165) 164. TACHYSURUS DUSSU.MIERI Val. [Arius dussumieri.] Barbel. Catfish. Literature L 3, 264, 328. Depth 4|. D I 7. A about 15. 9-10 gill-rakers. Bony head shield granulated above. Variably dirty brown. Attains 24 ins. An Indianic species which reaches Delagoa Bay. Part of the bones of the skull when cleaned out resemble a crucifix. BONY FISHES— Family NOTACANTHI DAE 109 165. TACHYSURUS FELICEPS (Valenciennes). [Galeichihys feliceps or oceltatus G. & T. or ater Cast.] Barbel. Barber. Sea Barbel. Catfish. Bagger. Simbonji (Native). Literature L 3, 19, 46, 58, 489. Plate 6, Kig. 165. TACHYSURUS TEUCEPS Actual length 15 ins. Depth about 5. D I 7. A 17-20. 7-12 gill-rakers. Colour variable, mainly brown bronzy with iridescence. Attains 20 ins. Found only in South Africa right round our coasts, common in estuaries. ORDER HETEROMI (166 168) SPINY EELS Deep sea fishes of eel-like tapering form, but with spiny dorsal fin and small scales. Not often seen, little is known about them. A few species in one family. Family NOTACANTHIDAE Compressed body with snout projecting over mouth. Teeth small. Concealed sharp spine at angle of mouth. Dorsal of separated spines, few or no soft rays. Anal of many rays. 2 genera in our area. A. 6-12 dorsal spines . Notaemthus (166-167) B. 27-34 dorsal spines . Macdonald, a (168) Genus Notacanthus Bloch, genotype Notacanihus chemnitzi Bloch. Dorsal of 6-12 separate spines. Anal of 12-19 spines. A number of species described, 2 in our area. A. 6-8 dorsal spines . (166) B. 9 dorsal spines . 166. NOTACANTHU.S SEXSPIMS Richardson. Literature L 3, 12, 49, 367, 394. Fig. 166. NOTACANTHUS SEXSPINIS Rich. After Boulenger. D VI-VIII. A X-XV • 150-160 rays. Pelvics 1-Jl 6-8. Tr. 20-25 from dorsal to L.l. Brownish, mouth and soft anal darker. Attains 24 ins. An Indo-Pacific deep water species, found from the Cape to Natal in 200-600 fathoms. 110 BONY FISHES— Family HALOSAURIDAE 167. NOTACANTHUS MOSELEYI (Goode & Bean). Literature L 3, 367, 394. Snout fairly blunt, very like No. 166, has D IX, and A XVl with about 100 rays. Tr. 25 between dorsal and L.I. Dark brown, mouth and parts of fins darker. Attains 20 ins. Pacific deep water, has been taken in 500 fathoms off Cape Point. Will probably eventually prove identical with No. 166. Genus Macdonaldia Goode & Bean, genotype NotacanthK^'' wstratus Coll. Dorsal of 27-38 separate short spines. Anal of 40-53 spines. Only one species. 168. MACDONALDIA ROSTR.ATA (Collett). [McicJouakHa qfricana G. & \on B.] Literature L 3, 49, 394, 655. Fig. 168. MACDONALDIA ROSTRATA (Coll.). After Goode & Bean. D XXVII-XXXVI. A XLIl-LII, passing gradually intcT soft rays. Brownish, mouth and parts of fins darker. Attains 20 ins. An Atlantic deep-water species, taken off ihe Cape in 900 -1.200 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER LYOPOMI (169-171) Deep sea fishes of eel-like form related to the HETEROMl (preceding), but without dorsal spines and with certain internal skeletal differences. Scales present. Rarely seen, and poorly known. Only 1 family. Family HALOSACRIDAE Compressed elongate body tapering to a fine point. Snout projecting over mouth, which has fineYeethjn bands. 2 genera in our area. A. L.I. scales not or scarcely enlarged . . Halosaurus (169) B. L.I. scales much enlarged . Halosatiropsis (170-171) Genus Halosaurus Johnson, genotype Halosaurus ovenii Johnson. No angular ridges above eye. L.I. scales scarcely enlarged. A few species, one in our area. 169. HALOS.4URUS OVENII Johnson. [Halosaurus owe/ti Johnson.] Literature L 49, 258, 394, 655. D 10-11. A about 190. L.I. about 170. 9 rather short stout flattened gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 24 ins. An Atlantic deep-water species, taken off Table Bay in 600 fathoms. BONY FISHES— Family UALOSAURIDAE Genus Halosauropsis Collett, genotype Halosaurus microchir Gnthr. Angular ridges above eye (not easily noticed in old specimens). L.l. scales much enlarged. A group of rather ill-defined species, need careful revision, 2 in our area. A. Pectoral tip reaches near dorsal base . macrochir (170) R. Pectoral tip not near dorsal base . affinis (171) 170. HAI^OSAUROPSIS MACROCHIR (Gunther). [Aldrovandia macrochir, or goodei or niger.] Literature L 3, 30, 49, 367, 655. General shape like No. 169. D 12-13. 9-10 pelvic rays. Tip of pectoral reaches near dorsal base. Enlarged L.l. scales much like those shown in Fig. 171, with 27-29 from head to anal origin. Black. Attains 20 ins. An Atlantic deep-water species, taken olT the Cape up to 1,400 fathoms. 171. HALOSAUROPSIS AFFINIS (Gunther). [Aldrovandia affinis or anguilliformis Alcock.] Literature L 3, 49, 367, 389. F ig. 171. HALOSAUROPSIS AIFINIS (Gnthr.). After Gunther. General shape like No. 169. D 11-12. 9-10 pelvic rays. 28-30 enlarged L.l. scales to anal origin. Black. Attains 22 ins. An Indo-Pacific deep-water form, taken off the Cape in 500-1, 4(X) fathoms. ORDER IMOMr (172-209) No tin spines, no air bladder. Adipose dorsal fin usually present. Scales small or absent. Sometimes phos¬ phorescent organs. Mostly rather small fishes, many from deep water. Much work remains to be done on this group, which is something of a puzzle to systematists. 1 1 families in our area. A. Eyes of normal size. 1. No photophores. (a) A distinct caudal. (i) Pectorals lateral. (.v) Maxilla narrow. («) Less than 20 anal rays... (/3) More than 20 anal rays (v) Maxilla broad behind. («) Upper pectoral rays long (/I) Upper pectoral rays normal (ii) Pectorals low down. (.v) Dorsal short . ( r) Dorsal long and high (h) No separate caudal . 2. Phosphorescent organs present. (a) Organs only on head above ... (h) Organs on body also. (i) Photophores not in defined groups (ii) Photophores in defined groups ... B. Eyes minute, vestigial . Synodontidae (172-179) . . . Scopelarchidae ( 1 80) Ba thyp teroidae (181-183) Ch/orophthalmidae (184-185) Omosudidae ( 1 86) A lepisauridae (187) Ateleopidae (188) Ipnopidae (189) Neoscopelidae (190-191) Myctophidae (192-208) Cetomimidae (209) 112 BONY FISHES— Family SYNODONTIDAE Family SYNODONTIDAE LIZARD FISHES Mostly fishes of small size with almost cylindrical bodies which live in shallow water ol all warm seas, chiefly in sandy areas, and are usually mottled in light brown so as to blend with the background. All have large mouths set with numerous sharp teeth, and the head of most species is distinctly ‘ lizard -like. Nowhere abundant and rarely caught in our area, commonly taken by nets in the tropics, they arc good eating. The young are quite transparent, up to about 3 ins. in length. One genus, Bathysaurus Gunther, is found in deep water. Jt is not difficult to track the genus, but the species in some genera are rather " artificial and confused. 4 genera in South Africa. A. Less than 15 dorsal rays 1. Inner pelvic ray about twice as long as outer. (.v) Snout fairly pointed ... ... ... ... ••• Synodus (172-174) (y) Snout short and blunt ... ... ... ... ••• ...Trachinoccpiudus (178) 2. Inner pelvic ray scarcely, if at all, longer than outer ... ... ... Saurida (175-177) B. More than 15 dorsal rays . Bothysaurus (179) Genus Synodus Gronow, genotype Salmo synodus Linn. Eight pelvic rays, inner ray about twice length of outer. Head depressed, lizard-like, not scaly above. Snout rather pointed in profile. Large mouth set with somewhat compressed pointed teeth. Teeth on the palate in a single band on each side, also teeth on the tongue. Small adipose dorsal and adipose eyelids present. Found in all warm seas, numerous species, only 3 recorded from our area. A. 3( scales between lateral line and middle of dorsal fin. (Most common species in South Africa) ... ... ... ... ... ... ... indicus (172) B. 4i-6i scales between lateral line and middle of dorsal fin. 1. Lateral line 54-57. (Rare in South Africa) ... ... ... ... synodus (173) 2. Lateral line 58-62 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... varieyatus (174) 172. SYNODUS INDICUS (Day). Lizard Fish (General). Literature L 3, 93, 328, 645. Plate 6, p. 94. Depth 6-8. Interorbital equals eye. D 12-13. A 9-10. L.l. 55-57. 3i scales between middle of dorsal and lateral line. 12-14 pectoral rays. Attains 10 ins. An Indian species found on our east coast, not uncommon in Natal, occasional specimens reach Mossel Bay. The most abundant of the lizard fishes in our waters. 173. SYNODUS SYNODUS (Linnaeus). [Sawrt« atlanticus Johnson.] Literature L 14, 645, 655. Depth 6-71. Interorbital equals eye. D 11-13. A 8-9. L.L 54-58, 4.1 scales between middle of dorsal and lateral line. 11-13 pectoral rays. Brownish, speckled and mottled, often obscure darkish spots, sometimes stripes on the dorsal and a small black spot on snout tip. Attains 12 ins. An Atlantic species recorded once from Natal, possibly not an accurate identification. 174. SYNODUS V'ARIEGATUS (Lacepede). [Saurus or Synodus varius Lac. Saurida japonica Houtt. Synodus dermaiogenys Fwlr.j Literature L 55, 521, 645. Plate 6, p. 94. Depth 6-7. D 1 1-13. A 8-10. L.l. 58-62. Usually 5| or 6i (rarely 4.() scales between middle of dorsal and lateral line. 12-13 pectoral rays. Brownish to grey, usually with 8 dusky cross-bars, sometimes joined below by a line. Sometimes faint stripes on the dorsal, pectorals and caudal. Attains 14 ins. A tropical Indo-Pacific species not often seen on our shores and so far not south of Durban. Genus Saurida Cuvier, genotype Salmo tumhil Bloch. 9 pelvic rays, inner barely longer than outer. Head depressed, not scaly above. Snout not as long as in Synodus. Large mouth set with slender pointed teeth visible even when the mouth is closed. Teeth in a double band on each side of palate, the inner short and wide, also teeth on tongue. Adipose eyelids and small adipose dorsal fin present. Numerous closely related species of warm seas, 3 recorded from our waters, not often found here. A. Pectoral with 12-13 rays . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... gracilis (175) B. Pectoral with 14-15 rays. 1. Dark spots on upper edge of caudal ... ... ... ... ... ... undosquamis (176) 2. No dark spots on upper edge of caudal ... ... ... ... ... ... tumhil (177) BONY FISHES— Family SYNODONTIDAE 113 175. SAURIDA GRACIl.IS (Quoy & Gaimard). [Saurida nehidosa (C. & V.).] Literature L 19, 521, 580, 645. Depth 6-61. Interorbital equals eye. DIO-11. A 9-10. L.l. 45-49. 3 '-4 scales between middle of dorsal and lateral line. 12 13 pectoral rays. Brownish yellow, lighter below, with obscure mottlings and sometimes cross-bars on sides, also brownish stripes or patches on fins. Attains 12 ins. Comes from the tropical Indo- Pacific and reaches as far south as Natal. 176. SAURIDA UNDOSQUAMIS (Richardson). [Sciurus undosquamis. Saurida grandisquamis Gnthr.] Literature L 16, 39, 47, 55, 645. Kig. 176. SAURIDA UNDOSQUAMIS (Rich.). Actual length 10 ins. If your fish resembles this, go to family SYNODONTIDAE (above) and work through all keys. Depth 6 8. Eye less than interorbital. Dll 12. A 10 12. L.l. 45-52. 3-1-4 scales between middle of dorsal and lateral line. 14 15 pectoral rays. Brown-grey, lighter below. Often a series of dark spots along side, also along front edge of dorsal and upper edge of tail. Attains over 20 ins. Comes from the tropical Indo-Pacific where it is abundant. Reaches as far south as Knysna. 177. SAURIDA TUMHIL ( Bloch). [Saurus had! C. & V., or argyrophanes Rich.] Literature L 21, 521, 645. Depth 6 7. Eye less than interorbital. Dll-13. A 10 11. L.l. 50-53. 4’,-5 scales between middle of dorsal and lateral line. 14 15 pectoral rays. Brownish, lighter below, mottled, with traces of cross-bars. Attains 18 ins. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, recorded from Natal, not likely often to be found here. Specimens wanted. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Trachinoccphaliis Gill, genotype Salmo m.yops Schn. Eight pelvic rays, inner at least twice as long as outer. Head not depressed, concave between eyes. Body moderately compressed. Snout short, eye far forward in head. Large mouth set with small close-set teeth. A single band of teeth each side on palate. Small adipose dorsal present. Only one widely distributed species. 178. TR.ACIIINOCF.PIIALIIS MYOPS (Schneider). [Saurus trachinus T. & S., or hrevirostris Poey. Saurus mvops.\ Literature L 3, 14, 47, 521, 655. Plate 6, p. 94. Depth 5 6. Interorbital less than eye. D 11-14. A 15-16. L.L 54 58. 3^. scales from middle of dorsal to L.l. 12-13 pectoral rays. Attains 12 ins. Occurs in the warmer waters of all oceans and has been found in our area from Knysna to Natal and beyond. Genus Bathysaurus Gunther, genotype the single species. 8 pelvic rays. Head much flattened, also body. Mouth large, lower jaw projects, sharp pointed teeth in bands in each jaw, inwardly depressible. Teeth on palate in a single band. Adipose dorsal absent. Lateral line scales enlarged. Only one species. 9 114 BONY FISHES— Families SCOPELARCHIDAE and BATH YPTEROIDAE 179. BATHYSAERUS FEROX Gunther. Literature L 3, 49, 367, 655. Fig. 179. BATHYSAURUS FEROX GiMhr. Actual length 8J ins. Depth 8-9. Interorbital wider than eye. D 18, 1st ray minute. No adipose dorsal. A 11-12. L.L 70-74, lateral line scales enlarged. Brown, darker below, mouth purple or black. Attains 25 ins. Occurs in the depths of most oceans 500-1,500 fathoms, several specimens taken off our coast. Family SCOPELARCHIDAE Little known small deep-sea fishes with eyes that look upwards. Depressible teeth in jaws. No luminous organs. Adipose dorsal present. A few genera, only the type genus in our area. Scopciarchus Alcock, genotype Scopelarchus gueittheri AIck., with one species. Presence of scales doubtful. 180. SCOPELARCHUS AN.ALIS (Brauer). [Dissonut anale ox pcrarmatus Goode..} Literature L 462, 521. Fig. 180. SCOPELARCHUS .4!\.4LIS (Brauer). After Brauer. Depth about 6. D 7. A 25. Smallish teeth in jaws, larger on palate. Reddish brown. Attains 8 ins. In deep water of all oceans, has been taken off our south coast in 500 fathoms. Family BATHYPTEROIDAE Elongate body with small scales. Very small eye. Upper pectoral rays greatly elongated as feelers, also sometimes pelvic and lower caudal rays. Adipose dorsal present. Deep sea fishes of all oceans. In our area only the genus Bathypterois Gunther, genotype Bathyptcrois longifilis Gunther. Head llattened, jaws broadly rounded in front. Fine teeth in narrow bands in jaws, a patch each side of vomer, none on palatines. A numb>cr of doubtful species, 3 in our area, all look much alike. A. Lower caudal rays not prolonged . (|8|) B. Lower caudal rays prolonged. ^ . Ji/iferu.s- (182) 2’ 1^ 1^ . ■ ••• ... ... capensis (183) 181. BATHYPTEROIS ATER Gilchrist. Literature L 30. Depth about 6. D 14. A 8. L.L about 60. Tr. 5 9. Pelvic does not reach end of anal. 2 lower caudal rays swollen but not prolonged. Otherwise very like No. 183. Attains 6 ins. Brownish. Only one specimen ever found, off Cape Point in 900 fathoms. 182. BATHYPTEROIS FILIFERUS Gilchrist. Literature L 3, 30, 49. Depth about 6. D 12. A 8-9. L.L about 56. Tr. 7/9. Pelvics reach almost to caudal base. 2 lower caudal rays produced. Very like No. 183. Attains 12 ins. Brownish. Found only off the Cape in 600—1 400 fathoms. 183. BATHYPTEROIS CAPENSIS Gilchrist & von Bonde. Literature L 49, Plate 6, p. 94. Depth about 7. D 14. A 8. L.l. about 50. Attains 10 ins. Found only off the Cape to Algoa Bay in 800-1,200 fathoms. BONY FISHES— Families CHLOROPHTHALMIDAE and OMOSUDIDAE 115 Family CHLOROPHTHALMIDAE Elongate almost cylindrical body with scales in regular oblique rows. A short normal dorsal and an adipose dorsal. Fairly large mouth with minute teeth. Eye large. Fishes of deep water, rarely seen. 2 genera in our area. A. Pelvic origin below dorsal . ... ... ... ... ... Chlorophthalmus (184) B. Pelvic origin before dorsal . ... . ... ... Bathysauropsis (185) Genus Chlorophthalmus Bonaparte, genotype Chlorophthalmus agas.sizi Bon. Minute teeth on vomer, palatines and tongue. Pelvic below dorsal. A few species, one in our area. 184. CHLOROPHTHALMUS AGASSI/T Bonaparte. [Chlorophthalmus productus Gnihr., or pmetatus Gilch.] Literature L 3, 28, 49, 367, 394, 655, Fig. 184. cm.OHOPHTHALMUS AGASSIZ! Bon, Actual length 6 ins. Depth about 6. Interorbital about half eye. D 11-12. A 9-10. 17-18 long gill-rakers. Scales with rough hind margin. L.l. 50-56. Tr. 5,6. Yellow brown, blotched. Attains 8 ins. Occurs in deep water of most warm seas, taken in 150-300 fathoms from the Cape to Delagoa Bay. Genus Bathysauropsis Regan, genotype Chlorophthalmus gracilis Gnthr. Head depressed. Pelvic before dorsal. One species. 185. BATHYSAUROPSIS GRACILIS Gunther. Literature L 3, 30, 49, 367, 505. Plate 6, p. 94. Depth about 8. Interorbital about equals eye. D 10-11. All. 15 long slender gill-rakers. L.l. 58-60. Tr. 6/7. In deep water, to 1,500 fathoms, of most oceans, has been taken off the Cape in 500-1,200 fathoms. Family OMOSUDIDAE Small deep-sea fishes with large mouth and great fangs, related to the ALEPISAURIDAE, following. Adipose dorsal present. No luminous organs. Only one genus, Omosudis Gunther, genotype Omosudis lowii Gnthr., with few species, only one in our area. 186. OMOSUDIS ELONG.ATUS Brauer. Literature L 49, 462, 655. Fig. 186. OMOSUDIS ELONGATUS Brauer. Actual length IJ ins. Depth about 6. D 9-10. A 24-26. Pelvics scarcely visible. Stomach highly distensible. Dark spots along grey sides. Attains 1| ins. In deep water of all oceans, has been found off Natal in 600 fathoms. 116 BONY FISHES— Families ALEPISAU RI DAE and ATELEOPIDAE Family ALEPISAURIDAE Elongate compressed naked body, very pliable, bones feeble. Large mouth with fearsome teeth. Large dorsal fin. Lateral line spongy, stands out from body. A single genus, Alepisaurus Lowe, with one species. 187. ALEPISAURUS FEROX Lowe. Lancet F'ish. Colpim (Portuguese), l.iterature L 3, 67, 394, 655 Fig. 187. ALEPISAURUS FEROX Lowe. Actual length 40 in.s. Depth about 10. D 38-45. A 13-17. 8-10 rays in pelvics. The upper caudal lobe not always produced. Sides metallic silvery. Attains 6 ft. or more. A fierce creature of all warm seas, extends also to deep water, has been found at East London and in Pondoland. Most virile, dangerous, can infiict serious wounds. Family .ATELEOPIDAE Elongate slimy almost gelatinous semi-transparent body without scales. Teeth feeble. Eye in process of reduction. Short dorsal and long anal, the latter united with the feeble caudal. Hardly any true bone in the skeleton. 4 genera. 3 in our area. A. 8-10 dorsal rays. 1. Pelvic ray elongate . . Ateleopus (188) 2. Pelvic ray short . /y/wr/w ( 188a) B. 12 dorsal rays . . M elanogloea {188b) Genus Ateleopus Schlegel, genotype Ateleopus japoniciis BIkr. Pelvic of 1 A few slimy gelatinous fishes of deep w'ater, 1 in our area. long ray, with a skinny flap behind. 188. .4TELEOPUS N.AT.ALENSIS Regan. Literature L 3, 39, 57, 695. Fig. 188. ATELEOPUS NATALENSIS Rgn. Actual length 9 ins. BONY FISHES— Families IPNOPIDAE and NEOSCOPEUDAE 117 Body soft and almost formless, dilFicult to recognise as a fish, and difficult to set out for illustration. D 9-10. Anal and caudal about 100. Lips finely ridged. No teeth in lower jaw. Attains 24 ins. Rather rare, known from our West coast to the Red Sea in 100-300 fathoms. Very likely identical with the species found in Japanese waters. Genus Ijiniaia Sauter, genotype Ijimaici dofteini Sauter. Soft flabby gelatinous body. Head shorter than trunk. Dorsal short, anal long, united with caudal. A few peculiar little brown fishes of the depths found over a wide area. One species in our area. 188a. IJIMAIA EOPPEI Roule. Literature L 7a. DIO. A about 80. 10 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 6 ft. Western Atlantic, 200-250 fathoms, has been found off our West coast. Something like No. 188. Genus Melanogloea Barnard, genotype the single species. Related to Ateleopus, but with shorter body and anal fin. Pelvics of 3 front separate rays before a normal fin. No teeth. 188b. MELANOGLOEA VENTRALLS Barnard. Literature L la. Head 3.^ in total length, about equal to trunk. Mouth large, extends to below hind margin of eye. No teeth. D 12. A 80. V 1 : 1 + 1 i 7. 17-18 gili-rakers. Scales of mucus canal tubular, boat-shaped. Black. Known from a single specimen 27 ins. in length from 300 fathoms off Saldanha Bay. Family IPNOPIDAE Elongate cylindrical body, with flattened head covered by a pair of large phosphorescent organs. Eyes vestigial. Only one genus, Ipnups Gunther, genotype Ipnops murrayi Gnthr. 2 species, one in our area. 189. IPNOPS MURRAYI Gunther. Literature L 30, 367, 394, 521. Fig. 189. IPNOPS MURRAYI Gnthr. After Goode & Bean. Depth about 13. DIO. A 13-14. L.l. about 55. Tr. 6. Brownish. Attains 6 ins. Pound in deep water of most oceans down to over 2.(X)0 fathoms, has been taken off the Cape. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family NF.OSCOPELIDAE Compressed body, scales easily shed. Photophores not in defined groups, deep water. 2 genera, both in our area. A. D 12-13 . B. D 21-22 . Teeth small. Small fishes of . Neoscopelus (190) . Scopelopsis (191) Genus Neoscopelus Johnson, genotype the single species. Photophores only on ventral surface. Adipose dorsal present. Maxilla not extending beyond eye. 118 BONY FISHES— Family MYCTOPHIDAE. 190. NEOSCOPELUS MACROEEPIDOTUS Johnson. Literature L 3, 39, 394, 462, 521, 655. Fig. 190. NEOSCOPELUS MACROEEPIDOTUS Jhnsn. Actual length 4 ins. Depth about 4. Interorbital slightly less than eye. D 12-13. A 11-13. L.l. 30-31. Tr. 4-5/6. Silvery, with pink sheen violet below about photophores, fins pink. Attains 10 ins. Oeeurs in ail seas down to 1,500 fathoms, has been found from Algoa Bay to Natal to 300 fathoms, sometimes thrown ashore. Genus Scopelopsis Brauer, genotype the single speeies. An obseure minute photophore under eaeh seale. Body fairly eompressed. Maxilla extends behind eye. 191. SCOPELOPSIS MULTIPUNCT ALL'S Brauer. Literature L 3, 462, 644. Fig. 191. SCOPELOPSIS MULTIPUNCTATUS Brauer. Actual length .1 ins. Inset, above, to show position of minute photophores when scales removed. Depth 41-5. Eye less than interorbital. D 21-22. A 23-25. L.l. 37-38. Tr. 3/4. 15-17 long close-set gill-rakers. An elongate almost rectangular luminous patch on upper part of caudal peduncle. Attains 3 ins. Found only in 500-1,000 fathoms off our coast between Port Nolloth and Natal. Family MYCTOPHIDAE LANTERN FISHES Compressed body with fairly large scales, sometimes easily shed. Mouth large, teeth feeble. Adipose dorsal present. Photophores quite distinct, one on a scale, in definite groups all below the lateral line. There may also be present, above and below at the base of the caudal fin, luminous scales, or luminous plates. Mostly the male has these on the upper, the female on the lower surface of the caudal peduncle. These are small shining fishes of open deep water whose life appears to be controlled by light. By day they are at a depth up to 2 miles whereas on the darkest nights many of them are at the surface. They must spend a great part of their lives moving up and down in the ocean. With photophores ablaze they are most beautiful objects. While it is easy to recognise a BONY FISHES— Family MYCTOPIUDAE 119 Myctophid fish as such, identification of genera and species necessitates careful study. Much work on the taxonomy of the Myctophids has been done, and much more will have to be done before this puzzling group is fully under¬ stood. The following characters need some explanation. Luminous scales at caudal base are normally overlapping, whereas Luminous plates cover several series of scales. Photophores are plain circular, or circular with a transverse black membrane, or dark and kidney shaped. The groups in which they occur have been given names according to the position on the body, and arc listed below together with the accepted abbreviations. Fig. K. To show nomenclature and position of photophores in Myctophid fishes. a. Antorbital. AO. Anal. L.P. Luminous plate. L.S. Luminous scale. PLO. Supra pectoral. PO. Pectoral. Pol. Posterolateral. Prc. Precaudal. PVO. Subpectoral. SAO. Supra anal. VLO. Supraventral VO. Ventral. 5 genera are accepted, not easy to define shortly. Only 2 Prc photophores . More than 2 Prc photophores Myctophuni (192-199) 1. Distinct luminous plates longer than scales above and below peduncle 2. No such plates present. Lampadena (200) (a) The 2 PVO in line with 1st PO. (/>) The 2 PVO not in line with the 1st PO. Diaphus (201) (i) Antorbital organs developed . . Nasolychnus (202) (ii) Antorbital organs absent or feeble . Lampanyctus (203-208) Genus Myctophuni Rafinesque, genotype .V/trtu/t/tww pw/tc/urwm Raf. 2 precaudal photophores. Luminous scales may be present, dorsal in males, ventral in females. Photophores normally circular. Antorbital organs rarely prominent. In all oceans with deep water, numerous species, 8 so far found in our area, doubtless many more await discovery. A. No Pol organ. 1. Eyes more or less telescopic... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... parallelum (192) 2. Eyes normal . ... ... ... ... . ... antarcticum (193) B. One Pol. 1. 2 VO. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. ... interruptum (194) 2. 4 VO. (<7) Cleft of mouth extends far behind eye. (i) Less than 4 luminous scales (ii) More than 3 luminous scales (h) Cleft of mouth barely beyond eye. (i) ,AO 9-1 1 . (ii) AO 13-17 . C. Two Pol . ... . humholdti (195) cocco (196) pterotum (197) phengodes ( 1 98) reinhardti (199) 192. MYCTOPHUM PARALLELUM Lonnberg. Literature L 612, 644. Lens of eye dorsally excentric. Depth about 3i. D 12. A 22. P. 15. Pol absent. PLO on pectoral base. 5 PO, all level. 4 VO. 3 SAO. 15 AO. Silvery. Attains 1| ins. An Atlantic species found off our South-West Coast. 120 BONY FISHES— Family MYCTOPHIDAE 193. MYCTOPHUM ANTARCTICUM (Gunther). Literature L 3, 367, 462, 612, 644. Eyes normal. Depth about 4. D 13-14. A 19-21. Pol absent. AO 17-18 always straight. VLO nearer pelvic base than L.l. L.l. 37-40. 5-7 luminous scales above or below peduncle. Silvery blue. Attains 4 ins- Circumpolar in southern seas, found off the Cape in 1,500 fathoms. 194. MYCTOPHUM INTERRUPTUM Tailing. Literature L 3, 388, 462, 612, 644. Previously wrongly identified as Myctophum ranun (Lutken). Depth about 5. D 13. A 17. L.l. about 40. Poll. 5-6 PO. 2 VO. AO in 2 groups, 6-8 1-5-7. VLO above pelvic ba.se, nearer that than L.l. Brilliant silvery, bluish above. Attains l.V ins. An Atlantic species found in deep water off the Cape. 195. MYCTOPHUM HUMBOLDTl (Risso). Literature L 3, 462, 612, 644, 655. Fig. 195. MYCTOPHUM H U. \f BOL DT/ (Rhso). Actual length .3 ins. Depth about 4|. D 13-15. A 20-23. L.l. about 40. AO 1-9 + 4-9. 3 SAO form a right angle. 1-2 mjnoiis sea es a ove, or 2-3 below, peduncle. Brilliant silvery with blue iridescence, deeper above. Attains ns. n a oceans, an abundant and widespread species, over most of our area, at the surface on dark nights, sometimes washed ashore. Bdd COCCO (Cocco). l.Myctop/nim hiam Rich.] Literature L 3, 30, 462, 521, 612, Fig. 196. MYCTOPHUM COCCO (Cocco). Actual length ,ns. Above, male. Depth about 4|. D 10-12. A 19-22. L.l. about 40. AO in 2 series variable 4 84 9 M a « i ■ s^les above, or 4-5 below, pedanele. Silver, wi.b blue .ridescenee. dee^' Ze 2' „s W dTr^d and abundant ,n most seas, occurs in large shoals, taken al several points in our area. ' ^ BONY FISHES- Family MYCTOPHIDAE 121 197. MYCTOPHUM PTEROTUM (Alcock). Literature L 462, 521, 612, 644. Rather robu,st body, depth about 4. D 11-13, Maxilla extends below hind margin of eye. A 17-19. L.l. 28-34. Pol I. 5 PO. 4 VO, 2nd much above others. AO divided, 5-6 : 4 -5. 3 SAO forming a wide angle. Silvery. Attains 4 ins. In most seas, has been found off Cape Point. 198. MYCTOPHUM PHENGODES (Lutken). Literature L 3, 462, 612, 644, 655. Lig. 198. MYCTOrHUM PHENGODES (Lutken). After Braucr. Depth about 4. D 12 13. A 19 22. L.l. about 38. PO separated, I • 4 or 2 ■ 3. 4 VO. 6-8 - 7-9 AO. Silvery. Attains 3.>- ins. F^ound in Indian and Atlantic Oceans, surface to depths, taken off Cape Point. 199. MYCTOPHUM REINHARDIl Lutken. [Myctophum henohi Coc.] Literature L 3, 388, 462, 521, 612, 655. Depth about 4.L D 12-14. A 18-20. L.l. about 38. 2 Pol. AO 6-8 • 6-8. VLO far below L.L, forms straight line with 1st and 2nd SAO. Hinder Pre on or just below 1..!. 1 2 luminous scales on peduncle. Silvery. Attains 2 ins. In all oceans, surface at night, known from the Cape to East London. Genus Lampadena Goode & Bean, genotype iMmpadena specuH^era G. & B. More than 2 Prc. A large saddle-like luminous plate above and below on peduncle. Antorbital organs at most feeble. Mouth extends well behind eye. A few species in all oceans, mainly Atlantic, one in our area. 200. I...\MPAI)ENA CHAVE.SII Collett. Literature L 7, 462, 612. 655. Lig. 200. LAMPADENA CHAVESII Coll. After Brauer. IDcpth about 5. D 12 14. A 13. Eye about 3 in head. 5 PO, all on same level. AO 7-i-2-3. 5-6 VO. 3 SAO. Luminous plates large, longer than eye diameter. Silvery, iridescent, attains 2i ins. An .Atlantic species once found off the Cape. Genus Diaphus Eigenmann & Eigenmann, genotype Scopelus en^rauUs Gnthr. 4 Prc photophores. No luminous plates, only rarely are luminous scales present at caudal. Usually a luminous scale at PLO. Antorbital organs enlarged. All photophores with black dividing membrane. 2 PVO in line with 1st PO. Found in deep water of all oceans. One species in our area. 122 BONY FISHES— Family MYCTOPHIDAE 201. DTAPHUS ELUCENS Brauer. [Diaphus aeolochrus Brnrd.] Literature L 4, 67, 462, 612. Fig. 201. DIAFtWS ELUCENS Brauer. Actual length 6.1 ins. Depth about 4^. D 14-16. A 14-16. L.l. about 35. PLO with luminous .scale below, nearer pectoral base than L.l. Black, iridescent. Antorbitals silvery. Attains 7 ins. Indo-Pacific, known from the Cape to Natal in deep water. A group of 5 closely related species, probably all the same, oldest of them Diaphus eff'idgens Goode & Bean. Genus Nasolyehnus Smith, genotype the single species. More than 2 Prc photophores. No luminous plates or scales at caudal. Photophores without black membrane. Antorbital organ prominent. South Africa only. 202. NASOLYCHNUS FLORENTE4E Smith. [Myctophum Jhrentii.] Literature L 60. Depth about 5. D 19. A 19. L.L 46. PLO nearer L.l. than pectoral. Upper PVO above pectoral PVO nol ,n Ime «th St PO. Prc on one side 4 o „rher I -2-M. Brown, antorb.tal silvery. Only one speeimen known, 5i ms. long, cast ashore near Port Alfred. ^ ^ specimen Fig. 202. NASOLYCHNUS ELORENTIAE Smith. Actual length 5 ins. Genus Lampanyctus Bonaparte, genotype Lampanyctus honapartei Bon. 3 luminous plates, but luminous scales may be present on peduncle Antorbital with 1st PO. Photophores circular or bean-shaped. Numerous species in all distinguish, need detailed study. A. 3 Prc. 1. Pectoral not reaching anal 2. Pectoral long, reaching anal B. 4-5 Prc. . -6 precaudal photophores. No organs feeble. PVO not in line seas, 6 in our area, difficult to niger (203) pusiHus (204) 1. PVO not above pectoral base 2. Upper PVO above pectoral base. (a) D 17 . {b) D 21-24 . C. 5 Prc . townsendi (205) procerus (206) elongatus (207) hectoris (208) BONY FISHES— Family MYCTOPHfDAE 123 203. LAMPANYCTUS NIGER (Gunther). [Lampanyctus nigrum Gnthr.] Literature L 462, 612, 644, 655. Depth about 6. D 13-15. A 16-19. L.l. 35. Pectoral short. Photophores variable in shape. 3 Prc. AO 6-84-7-10. 5 PO, 1st separate. Dark. Attains 5 ins. In deeps of all oceans, has been found off the Cape and Natal. 204. LAMPANYCTUS PUSILLUS (Johnson). [Myctophwn or Lampanyctus ulatus G. & B. and pseudoa- latus Tuning.] Literature L 3, 394, 462, 612, 644, 655. Fig. 204. LAMPANYCTUS PUSILLUS (Johns.). After Goode & Bean. Depth about 4.?. D 11-14. A 15 -18. L.l. about 35. Pectoral long, reaching well beyond dorsal. 3 Prc. AO 4-8 i-7-9. Luminous scales at caudal. Only 1 photophore on cheek. Photophores bean-shaped. Silvery, darker above. Attains 5 ins. In most oceans, found from the Cape to East London to 8(X) fathoms. 205. I.AMPANYCTUS TOVVNSENDI (Eig. & Fig.). [Lampanyctus warmingi Lutk.] Literature L 3, 462, 612, 644, 655. Depth about 4J. D 13 15. A 13-15. L.l. .35-38. 5 PO, last slightly above rest. AO 5-6 -4-6. 4 Prc. 3-5 small luminous patches at base of anal and of dorsal fins. Silvery with bronzy iridescence. Attains 3 ms. In deeps of all oceans, off the Cape in 900 fathoms. 206. LAMI’ANYCTUS PROCERUS (Brauer). Literature L 462, 612. Depth 5|. D 17. A 21. L.l. 40. Upper PVO above pectoral base. AO 8 -9. 4 Prc, last near L.l. Attains 1 in. So far found only off the Cape in 1,000 fathoms. 124 BONY FISHES— Families CETOMIMIDAE and EXOCOETIDAE 207. LAMPANYCTUS ELONGATUS (Costa). [Lampanyctus japonicus Gilb. or resplendent Rich.} Literature L 462, 612, 644, 655. Depth about 5. D 21-24. A 17-19. L.l. 40. 5 PO, 1st separated. AO 8-10-f-6-7. Pre 4. Silvery brown. Attains 5 ins. In deeps of all oceans, has been found olf the Cape. 208. LAMPANYCTUS HECTORIS (Gunther). [Scope/us or Myctophum or Lampanyefus ui'genleus Glch.] Literature L 3, 29, 612, 644. Depth about 5. D 14. A 15. L.l. about 38. 5 Pre. PVO close together. AO 7 8 | 5-6. Luminous scales at caudal and bases of anal and dorsal. Silvery, darker above. Attains 3 ins. Found from our west coast to the Southern Pacific. Family CETOMIMIDAE Fairly compressed naked body with large head but rudimentary eyes. Enormous mouth but teeth feeble. Little is knov/n about the.se curious degenerate creatures, the few known living at great depths where there is no light. One Atlantic genus, Cetomimus Goode & Bean, genotype Cetoniimus gi/lii G. &. B., in our area, with one species. The scientific name “ Whale-like ” refers to the shape and not to the size, as all are small, feeble creatures. 209. CETOMIMUS PICKLEI (Gilchrist). [Pele cinomimus /i/cA/i'/.l Literature L 39, 67. Body with loose flabby skin. Minute triangular teeth on most dentigerous bones. D 16. A 16. Eye minute, rudimentary. Uniform black. Only one specimen ever found, 3 ins. in length, taken at a depth of 1,000 fathoms olT Cape Point. These small, virtually blind, feeble fishes probably just swim about in the complete darkness of great depths with the mouth open hoping for food. Fig. 209. CETOMIMUS PICKLEI (Glch.). Actual length ,t ins. ORDER EXOCOETOIDEA (210 223) FLYING FISHES and HALFBEAKS line quadrangular body, with cycloid scales easily shed. No fin spines. Lateral of lari \ f^^^cs of all warm seas, important food of larger predatory pelagic forms. 2 families, easily distinguished. A. Mouth normal . r t B. Low'er jaw produced ... ,, . , ... Hemirhamphidiie (216-223) Family EXOCOETIDAE FLYING FISHES themtwtrmrh """ forms of life, and are an area at leaT L^^^^^ yu T "T' attain when expanded and the llwer o^of ^he t streamlined and flattened below, and ‘ Carefal ohse fishes leave the water 5 m T “P °Pthe water at swimming speed, about of Z in Tit lot 5oTeat ^P 'he lower lobe to about 40 ^hT -"t " '"creased within I second to elide alone 9^1 5 ins h expanded and the fish leaves the water secfilds until T STf TTT T ^ir currents the glide lasts from 2-12 L- hmr be rT^LL^d^ BONY FISHES—Family EXOCOETIDAE 125 Observers have noted that large, swift fishes, such as the Dolphin (No. 872), are able to follow the gliding fish and seize it as it falls into the water. As these fishes are somewhat variable and as growth changes occur, much work remains to be done before identifications can be positive in all stadia. The amateur may find difficulty with some specimens, all of which should be sent to Museums. Flying fishes prefer warm water, and so are not common in most of our region, where 3 genera arc found. A. Pectorals long, reach near caudal base. 1. Pelvics short, not to anal . Exocoetus (210) 2. Pelvics long, reaching anal . Cypsilurus (211-214) B. Pectorals shorter, not beyond 1st third of dorsal . ... Parexocoetus (215) Genus Exocoetus Linnaeus, genotype Exocoetus volitans Linn. Fairly robust body. Pectorals reach caudal base. Pelvics do not reach anal. Snout short. Only one species found in all warm seas. 210. EXOCOETUS VOLITANS Linnaeus. [Hcilocypselus or Exocoetus evolans Linn.] Literature L 93, 583, 653, 655. Fig. 210. EXOCOETUS VOLITANS Linn. After Brunn. Flying Fish. Depth about 5|. D 13-14. A 12-15. 24 gill-rakers. L.l. about 40. 17-20 scales before dorsal. Attains 10 ins. Occasionally found in our waters, not plentiful outside the tropics, where it occurs in all oceans. Genus Cypsilurus Swainson, genotype Exocoetus furcatus Mitchill. Fairly robust body. Pectorals reach beyond dorsal origin. Pelvics reach beyond anal origin. Many species have been described, most are doubtful. Exocoetus chloropterus C. & V., Exocoetus cyanopterus C. & V. and Exocoetus longipinnis Cast., have been described from our seas, but are doubtful species and not accepted here. 4 species are described below. A. L.l. 45-52. 1. Pectoral with marked bars ... 2. Pectoral more or less uniform. (a) Palatine teeth present ... (h) No palatine teeth B. L.l. 56 . furcatus (211) hahiensis (212) nigripennis (213) hewitti (214) 211. CYPSILURUS FURC.ATU.S (Mitchill). [Cvpselurus or Cypsilurus ahipennis C. & V. or katopron BIkr.] Fig. 211. CYPSILURUS FURCATUS (Mitchill). Actual length 10 ins. 126 BONY FISHES— Family HEMIRHAMPHIDAE Depth 6-7. D 13. A 10-12. L.l. 46-52. 28 predorsal scales. 15-17 gill-rakers. Anal originates behind dorsal origin. Pectorals reach to or near end of dorsal. Pelvics reach middle to end of anal. Silvery, blue above. Pectoral black with oblique light bluish bar. Other fins dusky. Attains 18 ins. Mostly Indian Ocean, also in Atlantic and central Pacific, not uncommon in our seas from the Cape eastwards. 212. CYPSILURUS BAHIENSIS (Ranzani). [Exocoetus hahieusis.] Literature L 3, 47, 281 , 328, 579, 655. Plate 7, p. 129., juvenile and adult. Depth 5-6. D 12-14. A 9-11. L.l. 37-40. 30-35 predorsal scales. No teeth on vomer. Silvery, bluish above. Sometimes a dark blotch on dorsal. Attains 20 ins. Found in all warm seas, has several times been recorded from our shores. 213. CYPSILURUS NIGRIPENNIS (C. & V.). Literature L 19, 281, 579. Depth 5-6. Dll-13. A 8-10. L.l. 45-50. Anal origin behind dorsal origin. Pectorals reach beyond dorsal origin. Pelvics reach end of anal. Silvery, blue above. Fins dark or black, caudal yellowish. Attains 4 ins. Indo-Pacific, only once found in our area. Probably the young of some other species. 214. CYPSILURUS HEWITTI Smith. [Cypselurus hewhti.] Literature L 67. Depth about 57. D 13. A 10. L.l. 56. 32 predorsal scales. 21 gill-rakers. Two flat fringed barbels lialf head length just below tip of lower jaw. No teeth on palate. Pectoral reaches caudal base. Anal origin behind dorsal origin. Brownish above, silvery below. Fins rather dark. Only one specimen 9 ins. long found at Port Alfred. Possibly the young of some known species, but rather large for that. Genus Parexocoetiis Bleeker, genotype Exocoetus mento Cuv. Fairly robust elongate body. Pectorals not reaching caudal base. Pelvics not reaching anal origin. Chin projects somewhat. A single Indo-Pacific species. 215. PAREXOCOETUS BR.4CHYPTERUS Richardson. [Exocoetus or Parexocoetiis memo Cuv. Parexocoetiis mesogaster J. & E.] Literature L 3, 328, 579. Plate 7, p. 129. Depth about 5. D 10-12. A 10-12. L.l. 38-42. About 18 scales before dorsal. 21-23 gill-rakers. Bony knob at front of lower jaw. Blue above, top ot dorsal black, also end of pectoral in young. Attains 8 ins. Occurs in most warm seas, common Delagoa Bay northwards, comes inshore in stormv weather. Family HEMIRHAMPHIDAE HALFBE.AKS: NEEDLEFISHES: N.YALDVISSE: CANDLEFISHES: BALLYHOO: BA1..\0 Fishes with the lower jaw developed into a long, bony beak which bears a sensitive fringe used to detect small creatures which form the main food. Closely related to the Flying Fishes these curious creatures Frequent the surface of all warm seas. They breed largely in quiet waters of estuaries and lagoons, the females producing as many as 10,000 fairly large eggs per season, which by means of sticky filaments adhere to marine plants until the young emerge. The tiny fishes have a normal mouth, but as they grow the lower jaw expands rapidly and attains the adult proportions when the fish is 2-3 inches long. These fishes are all able to shoot along out of the water m a senes of leaps with the body close to and parallel with the surface. The fully expanded pelvics keep the front of the moving body above the water, while each leap is sustained by the lower lobe of the tail beating the water. This is exactly similar to the “ Taxi ” phase which precedes the free flight of a Flying Fish. The larger fishes travel up to 200 ft. in this fashion at about 50 ft. per second. Young fishes, however, shoot alo ng with the body almost upright out of the water while the tail vibrates rapidly in the surface. Preyed upon by bi rds and fishes, and captured in numbers by dragnets, the Hemirhamphids are excellent bait. The flesh is delicate but many fine bones make eating troublesome. Very occasionally hooked by accident, large specimens fight vigorously Mostly small fishes, the largest grow to over 2 ft. in length. 3 genera in our area. A. Depth about 20 B. Depth 8-11. 1. Triangular part of upper jaw scaly... 2. Triangular part of upper jaw naked Euleptorhamphus (216) Hyporhamphus (2 1 7-221) Hemirhamphus (22 2-223) BONY FISHES— Family HEMIRHAMPHIDAE 127 Genus Euleptorhamphus Gill, genotype Euleptorhamphus brevoorti Gill. Body very long and slender, with elongate pectorals rather like a stage between true Hemirhamphids and Flying Fishes. One species in our area. 216. EULEPTORHAMPHUS LONGIROSTRIS (Cuvier). Literature L 3, 328, 461. Depth 22. D 23-25. A 21-23. Body very com¬ pressed. Beak about 1 of body length. A silvery stripe along body. Attains 14 ins. Found, though rarely, in all warm seas. Only few ever taken in our area, near the Cape, more wanted. Genus Hyporhamphus Gill, genotype Hypor- haniphus triciispidatus Gill. Body fairly slender. Triangular part of upper jaw scaly. Air-bladder simple. Pelvics inserted midway between base of caudal and base of pectoral or nearer the latter. Scales thin, rather large. Lateral line along lower edge of body. Pectorals short, dorsal and anal far back. 5 species in our waters. A. Mid-caudal rays longer than diameter of eye. 1 . 14 dorsal rays ... . 2. 16-17 dorsal rays . B. Mid-caudal rays not longer than diameter of eye. 1. No scales on pectoral . 2. Basal half of pectoral scaly. (a) Beak ^ of total length ... (h) Beak ^ of total length ... 217. HYPORHAMPHU.S IMPROVTSUS (Smith). Fig. 216. EULEPTORHAMPHUS LONGIROSTRIS {Cu\.). Actual length 8 ins. (After J, & E.) . . improvisus (217) . ... knysnaensis (218) dussumieri (219) . ... ... ... de/agoae (220) . ... ... halinensis (221) [Hemirliamphus improvisus.] Needlefish. Halfbeak. Literature L 61. Plate 7, p. 129. Body fairly robust. Depth D 14. A 15. L.1.4-f49. Scales on upper jaw. Pelvics midway between caudal base and hind margin of eye. Caudal little forked, mid-rays 2J- times eye. Beak 5 in total length. Attains 12 ins. Found so far only from Delagoa Bay to Bcira, not common. 218. HYPORH.AMPHUS KNV'SNAENSIS (Smith). \Hemirhampbus knysnaensis.] Needlefish. Naaldvis. Candlefish (Transkei). Literature L 19, 61. Plate 7, p. 129. Fig. 218. HYPORHAMPHUS KNYSNAENSIS (Smith). Actual length 7 ins. Body rather slender. Depth 9J-11. D 16-17. A 16-18. L.l. 3 “53. Scales on upper jaw. Pelvics midway between base of caudal and hind margin of head. Caudal slightly forked, midrays l L-2 times eye. Beak 41-5 in total length. Attains 10 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Natal, quite plentiful in estuaries all through the year, but seldom seen except by the aid of a light at night. Makes repeated short jumps with a characteristic “ flick-flick ” as the tail beats the water. In males the lateral stripe extends as a dusky area over the lower caudal lobe. Ripe females in estuaries October-November, the needle-like young in evidence Novembcr-March. 219. HYPORHAMPHUS DUSSUMIERI (Forskal). [Hemirliamphus dussumieri.] Needlefish. Halfbeak. Literature L 47, 61, 281, 579. Body almost cylindrical. Depth 9. D 14-16. A 13-15. L.l. 3--i-52. Scales on upper jaw. Pelvics midway between base of caudal and middle of opercle. Caudal forked, lower lobe longer, midrays not longer than eye. Beak 4|l-5| in total length. Green-blue above with silvery lateral stripe. Attains 15 ins. An Indo-Pacifie species, rare in our area, has been found at Delagoa Bay. 128 BONY FISHES— Family HEMIRHAMPHIDAE 220. HYPORHAMPHUS DELAGOAE (Barnard). [Hemirhamplius clclagoae.] Needlefish. Halfbeak. Literature L 2, 61. Plate 7, p. 129. Body fairly robust. Depth 10. D 15. A 16. L.I. 3 i-58. Scales on upper jaw. Pelvics midway between caudal base and base of pectoral. Caudal deeply forked, lower lobe longer, midrays shorter than eye. Beak 6 in total length. Attains 14 ins. Known only from Delagoa Bay to Beira, not uncommon. i 221. HYPORHAMPHUS BALINENSIS (Bleeker). [Hcmur/umipluLs- haliucnsis.] Literature L 61, 281, 579. j Body fairly robust. Depth 9-10. D 15-16. A 16-18. L.I. 3 i 61. Scales on upper jaw. Pelvics midway between caudal base and hind margin of head. Caudal deeply forked, midrays as long as eye. Beak 5 in total length. Blue-green above with silvery lateral stripe. Attains 10 ins. An Indo-Paciiic form rarely reaching | our area, then only north of Natal. i Genus Hemirhamphus Cuvier, genotype Esox hrasiliensis Linn. Body robust, sub-quadrangular in cross j section. Triangular part of upper jaw naked. .Air-bladder cellular. Pelvics inserted nearer base of caudal than | head. Scales thin, rather large. Lateral line along lower edge of body. Pectorals short. Dorsal and anal hir back. I 2 species in our area. j A. Black blotches on side . . ... ... far (222) B. No black blotches on side . ... . .. . marginatus (223) 222. HEMIRHAMPHUS F.4R Forskal. [Hemirhamphus commcrsoni Cuv. Hemirhamphus fasciatus \ BIkr.] Needlefish. Naaldvis. Caiidlefish (Transkei). Literature L 3, 47, 61, 281, 328, 579. Plate 7, p- 129. Body robust. Depth 6-8. D 13-14. A 10-13. L.I. about 3 - 53. Upper jaw not scaly. Pelvics midway between caudal base and tip of pectoral. Caudal deeply forked, lower lobe longer, midrays not longer than eye. Beak 4J in total length. The young fishes (Plate 7) are much more clearly banded than the adults. Attains \ 26 ins. Found in all tropical seas, and occurs along our south coast as far as False Bay, where adults enter estuaries to breed about November, and both adults and young vanish by March. In Pondoland, Natal and further north, this species remains all the year round, and is plentiful in the waters of Mozambique. The smooth, long body ' of this fish shooting along the top of the water is often seen when sailing in our estuaries. Good eating and exeellent bait. By drifting a fine line with tiny hook baited with shrimp where these fishes congregate at night, one may oceasionally be hooked and fights furiously. Most are, however, captured by dragnets or by ’ “ scooping " at night. 223. HE.MIRHAMPHUS MARGINATUS Forskal. Literature L 19, 61, 579, 655. Body rather compressed but quite robust. Depth 6. D 13—14. A 10—13. L.I. 3 54. Upper jaw not sealy. Pelvics midway between caudal base and end of pectoral. Caudal deeply forked, lower lobe longer, midrays not longer than eye. Beak 4J in total length. Blue-green above, silvery below, a silvery stripe along the body. | Attains 18 ins. Found in all w'arm seas, rare in our area. Specimens wanted. ORDER SCOMBERESOCOIDEA (224 230) GARFISHE.S; NEEDLEFISHES Elongate body fairly to highly compressed, with small thin scales. Both jaws produced, teeth in beak sometimes strong. Lateral line low down. Surface fishes of warm seas, most of them able to travel by a series of skips or hops along the surface of the water. They may often be found in wide estuaries and bays of tropical seas. 3 families. >: - -Vfc -r ' ^ ^ ' ' >rs. 10 ins 1 I '"4', knysnaensis. 8 ins. 220. Hvporhwlipluis dckifroae ins. _22. Hennthamphu.s far left, adu t, 20 jns., right. Juvenile. 5 ms. 226. Abknnes hians, i6 ins. 228. Tvloutrul k'lurus, 30 ins. 234. Coehrhvnchus denticulatus, 9 ins. Actual length stated in each case. bony FISHES-Families SCOMBERESOCI DAE, PETALICHTH YI DAE and BELONIDAE 129 A. Detached finlets behind dorsal and anal B. No detached finlets. 1. Gill-rakers present 2. No gill-rakers ... Family SC0!V1IJP:RES0CID AE Scomheresocidae (224) Petalichthyidae (225) Tylosuridae (226-230) Elongate slender body with small thin scales. Small teeth in elongated jaws. Gill-rakers present. Detached hn ets behind dorsal and anal. Only one genus .Scomberesox Lacepede, genotype Esox saurus Walbaum, the only species. 224. SCOMBERESOX SAURUS (Walb.). [Scomhresox saurus or rondcdelii.] .Saury. Garfish. Skipper. Skippy. Literature 1. 3, 28, 93, 655. Depth about 9. D 9-11 i 5-6. A 12 13 • 6 7. L.l. about 150. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw. Attains 20 ms. Occurs in all warm seas, known from most parts of our coast. Shoots along the surface in short “ skips ”. Good eating and excellent bait, but not easily caught. In the very young the jaws are normal, with growth the lower jaw first elongates, then the upper. Lor lull information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family PETAI.ICm HYIDAE NEEDI.EFISH: NAAI.DVIS Very thin elongate body, almost ribbon-like. No detached finlets. Gill-rakers well developed. No teeth on vomer. A single genus, Pctalichthys Regan, genotype the single species, found only in South Africa. 225. PEIAEICHrUYS CAPENSIS Regan. Needlefish. Naaldvis. Literature L 3, 93, 451, 580. Lig. 22.S. BLTALICm H YS CAPENSIS Regan. Actual length 12 ins. Depth 13-15. Interorbital just less than eye. D 15-18. A 20-23. 16-18 gill-rakers. No teeth on palate, those in beak of moderate size. Pelvics nearer caudal base than head. Silvery, bluish above. Attains 15 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Natal, rarely enters estuaries, occasionally thrown ashore. Family lA I.OSURID.AE GARELSMES Elongate slender body with small thin scales. Both small and large teeth in elongated jaws. No detached finlets. Gill-rakers absent. Rather fierce carnivorous fishes of the surface of warm seas, enter estuaries freely. The bones and sometimes part of the flesh are green, but they are good eating and good bait 2 genera in our area. A. Body strongly compressed . Ahlennes (226) B. Body almost cylindrical . Ty/osurus (227-230) 10 130 BONY FISHES— Family BELONIDAE Genus Ablennes Jordan & Fordicc, genotype Belone hians Val. Strongly compressed elongate body. No gill-rakers. No detached finlets. Teeth moderate, none on vomer. Only one circumtropical species. 226. ABLENNES HIANS (Val.). [Belone me/anostigma Ciiv.] Literature L 3, 47, 583, 655. Plate 7, p. 129. D 23-26. A 25-27. No teeth on vomer. Scales very small. Attains at least 40 ins. In all warm seas, has been recorded from Natal, rare in our area. Genus Tylosurus Cocco, genotype Ty/osurus cantraini Cocco. Elongate body, feebly compressed. No gill-rakers. No detached linlets. Teeth strong, none on vomer. Powerful Garfishes of the surface ol all warm seas. 4 species in our area, all look much alike. A. Caudal almost truncate. 1. 15-17 anal rays . senegalensis (227) i 2. More than 20 anal rays . leiunis (228) B. Caudal more or less forked. 1. D 22-23. A 19-21 crocoditns (229) 2. D 25-26. A 22-23 melanotus (230) 227. TYLOSURUS SENEGALENSIS (C. & V.). [Belone senegalensis or eapensis Gnthr.] Literature L 47, 93, 277. D 14-15. A 15-17. Body sub-cylindrical. Caudal peduncle slightly compressed. Pelvics slightly nearer head than caudal base. Caudal somewhat emarginate. Eye less than interorbital. Silvery, darker above. Attains | 13 ins. Reported from the Cape of Good Hope by Gunther in 1866. A doubtful record of an Atlantic form, which has since then never been found south of the Cameroons. For lull information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 228. TYLOSURUS LEIURUS (Bleeker). [Belone leiunis or Hura. Belone natalensis Gnthr.] Previously confused in South Africa with Tylosurus leiuroicles Blkr., which is the same as Tylosurus incisus (C. & V.). Garfish. Literature L 3, 203, 281, 328, 579. Plate 7, p. 129. Body sub-cylindrical. D 18-21. A 22-25. Dorsal originates above about 7th anal ray. Last dorsal rays do not reach caudal base. Tongue smooth, no teeth on vomer. Attains at least 40 ins. Widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay. These curious fishes live in the surface of the water and are not at all timid as they will approach close to a boat. They are. however, rather suspicious and when a baited hook is drifted towards them they merely toss it like playful dogs. If a small live fish on a line be allowed to drift they become excited and tear it to pieces. They are then easily hooked but fight vigorously and when pulled into the boat leap madly about snapping fiercely at everything, biting even the wooden seats and | woe betide the angler whose arm or leg they seize (H. Le May). This fish has green bones, but the flesh is ' excellent. I 229. TTLOSURUS CROCODILUS (Lesueur). [Belone or Strongylura or Tylosurus choram Rupp.) Garfish. Literature L 3, 47, 52, 328, 579. Depth about 15. Body sub-cylindrical. D 22-23, last rays depressed reach caudal base. A 19-21. D originates over about 2nd anal ray. Pelvic inserted midway between eye and caudal base. Tongue rough. No teeth on vomer. Caudal forked. Blue-green above, silvery below. Fins largely yellow, dusky on pectoral and caudal. Attains at least 48 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaches as far as Durban. A fierce predatory fish, very destructive of small fishes. Known as “ Langsar ” in the East. ' j 230. TYLOSURUS MELANOTUS (Bleeker). [Strongylura melanotus. Belone or Tylosurus coromandelicus V. Hass.] Garfish. Literature L 14, 203, 281, 579. Virtually identical with No. 229 except for D 25-26 and A 22-23. A number of specimens will doubtless show Nos. 229 and 230 to be the same species. Has been recorded from Delagoa Bay and Durban. BONY FISHES— Family CORYPHAENOIDIDAE 131 ORDER ANACANTHFNI (231-261) CODS: HAKE: HADDOCK: STOCKFISH: RATTAILS Elongate body with small scales. Sometimes no free caudal. Dorsal and anal long, dorsal sometimes divided into 2 or even 3 parts. No true fin spines, but a bony ray, occasionally serrate behind, sometimes present in the front of the dorsal. Usually in deep water of cooler seas, these fishes are most abundant in the northern hemisphere, and primarily Atlantic. Some of them are among the most important food-fishes of the world, notably the CODFISH of the Northern Hemisphere, also our Stockfish (No. 257). In our area 2 families, easily distinguished. A. Body tapers to a point, no free caudal ... ... ... ... Coryphaenoididae (231-249) B. Caudal fin present . Gadidae (250-261) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family CORYPHAENOIDIDAE Elongate body tapering to a point. Scales usually strong but easily shed. A short, more or less elevated, dorsal in front, followed by a long fin which joins a similar anal fin round end of tail. Often a barbel below chin. Fishes of deep to very deep water of all oceans, in some parts in great numbers. A few attain a fair size and the flesh is palatable. They are so numerous in parts of our waters as to be an important potential source of valuable protein food, but the unfortunate name of “ Rat-tail ”, and the rather rat-like quite repulsive appearance, have militated against their popular use as food. It is noteworthy, however, that both seals and sea-birds prefer the flesh of the GADIDAE to these fishes. The scales are easily shed so that most specimens obtained by trawl look rather ragged. United in this family are several rather well-defined groups which probably merit family rank. Numerous genera, 7 in our area. A. 2nd dorsal ray spiniform, sometimes serrate. 1. 6 branchiostegal rays. (a) Dorsal spine smooth (h) Dorsal spine rough . 2. 7 branchiostegal rays. (a) One row of teeth in lower Jaw {b) More than I row teeth in lower Jaw. (i) Upper Jaw about J head length... (ii) Upper Jaw about i head length... B. 2nd dorsal ray not spiniform. 1. One dorsal fin ... 2. 2 dorsal fins Coelorhynchus (231-236) Coryphaenoides (237-238) Malacocephalus (239) Macruroplus (240-244) Ventrifossa (245) Ly conodes (246) Bathygadus (247-249) Genus Coelorhynchus Giorna, genotype Lcpidolepris coelorhynchus Risso. 6 branchiostegal rays. Large 2nd dorsal ray spiniform but not serrate. Barbel present. Scales large with prominent spinules. Fishes of fairly deep water of most oceans, 6 species in our area. A. 1st dorsal of 2 spiniform and 7-8 soft rays. 1. 7-9 radiating rows of spines on each scale 2. 3-9 parallel rows of spines on each scale 3. 11-13 parallel rows of spines on each scale B. 1st dorsal of 2 spiniform and 9 soft rays. 1. Scales on head ridges spiny . 2. Scales on head ridges not spiny C. 1st dorsal of 2 spiniform and 10 soft rays flahellispinus (231) paraUelus (232) acanthiger (233) denticulatus (234) argent atus (235) fasciatus (236) 132 BONY FISHES— Family CORYPHAENOIDIDAE 231. COELORHYNCHUS FLABELLISPINUS (Alcock). Rat-tail. Literature L 19, 393, 396, 419, 462, 571. Snout pointed and scaly below. Barbel half eye diameter. Maxilla extends below hind margin eye. 1st dorsal 2, 8, longest spiniform ray about l.l times eye diameter. A about 80-90. 7-9 radiating rows of spinules on each scale. 4 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. Dusky grey, darker in parts. Attains 20 ins. An Indian Ocean species, once found off the Cape in 35 fathoms, otherwise known from 500-700 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 232. COELORHYNCHUS P.ARAl.LELUS (Gunther). [Coe/orhynchiis hraucri Brnrd.] Rat-tail. Literature L 3, 29, 462. Fig. 232. COELORHYNCHUS PARALLELVS {Gn\hr.). Actual length 10 ins. Snout more or less conical, scaly below. Barbel J eye. 1st dorsal 2, 8, longest spiniform ray about twice eye. A 86-100. 6-7 gill-rakers. 3-9 more or less parallel rows of spinules on each scale. 5 scales between front of 1st dorsal and L.l. Attains 20 ins. Deep water of the Indo-Pacific, has been found from Saldanha Bay to Natal down to 500 fathoms. 233. COELORHYNCHUS ACANTHIGER Brnrd. Rat-tail. Literature L 1, 3. Snout more or less conical, scaly below, barbel about ] eye diameter. 1st dorsal 2, 7-8, longest spiniform ray almost twice eye. A about 90. 6 gill-rakers. 11-13 more or less parallel rows of spinules on each scale. 5 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. Brownish. Attains 16 ins. Only one found in 460 fathoms off Cape Point. A species of doubtful validity. 234. COELORHYNCHUS DENTICUL.ATUS Regan. [Coelorlnnchus natalensis Fowler.] Rat-tail. Literature L 13, 14, 19, 572. Plate 7, p. 129. Snout rather pointed, not scaly below. Ridges on head spiny. Barbel almost as long as eye. 1st dorsal 2, 9, plus about 100. 8-10 more or less parallel rows of spinules on each scale. 4 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. Attains 12 ins. So far found only off Natal in 100-150 fathoms. 235. COELORHYNCHUS .ARGENT.ATUS Smith & Radcliffe. Rat-tail. Literature L 3, 518, 527, 571. Snout acutely conical, pointed, not scaly below. Maxilla extends below middle of eye. Barbel about J eye. Dorsal 2, 8-9, plus about 100. Longest spiniform ray about twice eye. A about 100. 5-6 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. Spinules on scales arranged in “ quincunx ”, i.e. in rows running about 45° to the long axis, gi -rakers. Silvery brown. Attains 15 ins. An Indo-Pacific species once found off Algoa Bay in 50 fathoms. BONY FISHES-^Family CORYPHAENOIDIDAE 133 236. COELORHYNCHUS FASCIATUS (Gunther). Rat-tail. Literature L 3, 28, 329, 367, 462, 655. Fig. 236. COELORH YNCHUS FASCIATUS {Gnihr). Actual length 14 ins. Rather blunt snout, not scaly below. Barbel about ^ eye. 1st dorsal 2, 10. A about 90. 4-6 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. 8-18 more or less parallel rows of spinules on each scale. 6 gill-rakers. Silvery brown. Attains 24 ins. A species confined to the sub-Antarctic region of the Southern Hemisphere. Quite abundant olT our south coast down to 300 fathoms. Flesh palatable but soft. Genus Coryphaenoides Gunner, genotype Coryphaenoides rupestris Gunner. 2nd dorsal ray spiniform, rough, or serrated. Barbel present. Scales fairly large water, species numerous, only 2 in our area. A. 12-14 rows of spines on each scale B. 3-9 rows of spines on each scale 6 branchiostegal rays. Large with spinules. Fishes of deep striatura (237) carinatus (238) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 237. CORYPHAENOIDES STRIATURA Barnard. Rat-fail. Literature L 2, 3. Fig. 237. CORYPHAENOIDES STRIATURA Brnrd. Actual length 9 ins. Snout rather short, scaly below. 1st dorsal 2, 9. A about 110. 6 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. 12-14 more or less parallel rows of spinules on each scale. 10-12 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 24 ins.^Has so'^far been found only off the Cape down to 1,000 fathoms. 134 BONY FISHES— Family CORYPH AENOl DI DAE 238. CORYPHAENOIDES CARINATUS Gunther. Rat-tail. Literature L 3, 329, 367. Snout rather short, scaly below. 1st dorsal 2, 9-10, plus about 1 10, longest spiniform ray feebly serrate, about twice eye. A about 110. Barbel about eye. 5 scales between 1st dorsal and L.I. Scales with a longitudinal spiny ridge and 1-4 more or less parallel rows of spinules each side. 9 gill-rakers. Silvery brown. Attains 30 ins. An Indian Ocean species found off the Cape in deep water. Genus Maiacocephalus Gunther, genotype Macrowus laevis Lowe. 7 branchiostegal rays. Only one row of teeth in lower jaw. Barbel present. Large 2nd dorsal ray spiniform, smooth. Small bristly scales. A few species of deep water, only one in our area. 239. MALACOCEPHALIJS LAEVIS (Lowe). Literature L 3, 367, 527, 655, 695. Fig. 239. MALACOCEPHALUS LAEVIS (Lowe). Actual length 10 ins. Depth about 7. D 2, 1 1 12 plus about 200. A about 200. Scales with 10—22 spinules. Vent in a naked area. Brownish with silvery pink sheen. Attains 24 ins. In 200-700 fathoms in most oceans, has been found from the Cape to Durban. Genus Macruroplus Bleeker, genotype Macroiirux serratus Lowe. 7 branchiostegal rays. Teeth in bands. Lower jaw short, about I head length. Large 2nd dorsal ray spiniform, serrated. Rather small .scales. Vent usually rather far from anal. Numerous fairly small species, widely distributed, mainly Indo-Pacific. 5 in our area. A. 1st dorsal of 2 spiniform and 8 soft rays B. 1st dorsal of 2 spiniform and 9 soft rays C. 1st dorsal of 2 spiniform and 10-13 soft rays. 1. Pelvic origin before pectoral base. (a) 8-9 .scales 1st dorsal to L.I . (h) 15-16 scales 1st dorsal to L.I. 2. Pelvic origin below pectoral base Iconis (240) nasutus (24 1 ) pumiHceps (242) . ..nigromacu/atus (243) ... hreviharbatus (244) 240. MACRUROPLUS LEONIS (Barnard). [Lionurus leoni.s.] Rat-tail. Literature L 2 3 Snout rather blunt, scaly below. Maxilla barely reaches below eye. Barbel I eye diameter D 2 8 serrated spiniform ray almost head length. 9 pelvic rays. 12 scales between 1st dorsal and L.I. 6 rows’of spinules on each scale. 8 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 12 ins. Only once found off Cape Point down to 350 fathoms. 241. MACRUROPLUS N'.ASUTUS (Smith). [Lionurus nasutus.] Rat-tail. Literature L 67. Fig. 241. MACRUROPLUS NASUTUS (Smith). Actual length 10 ins. BONY FISHES— Family CORYPHAENOIDIDAE 135 Snout rather pointed, fully scaly below. Barbel | eye. First dorsal 2, 9, longest spiny ray serrated. 8 pelvic rays. 6 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. 6-7 rows of fine spines on each scale. 13 gill-rakers. Brownish. Only one specimen off our coast. 242. MACRUROPLUS PUMILICEPS (Alcock). [Lionurus pumiliceps.] Rat-tail. Literature L 393, 396, 419, 462, 571. Snout fairly blunt, scaly below. Barbel f eye. First dorsal 2, 11-13, longest serrated spiniform ray as long as head. 1 1-13 pelvic rays, base well in advance of pectoral base. 8 gill-rakers. 8-9 scales between 1st dorsal and L.I., 3-8 rows of spinules on each scale. Vent close to anal. Brownish. Attains 1 1 ins. Widespread to 900 fathoms in the Indo- Pacific, has been found at 250 fathoms off our coast. 243. MACRUROPLUS NIGROMACLLATUS (McCulloch). [Lionurus nigromacu/atus.] Rat-tail. Literature L 3, 476. Much like No. 242, differs mainly in, 1st dorsal 2, 10-1 1. 13-15 pelvic rays, fin inserted in advance of pectoral base. 8 -9 rows of spinules on each scale, 15-16 scales from 1st dorsal to L.l. 8-9 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 9 ins. An Australian species found in 150-300 fathoms from the Cape to Natal. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 244. MACRUROPLUS BREVIBARB.ATUS (Barnard). [Lionurus hreviharhatus.] Rat-tail. Literature L 2, 3. Snout rather blunt, not scaly below. Barbel eye. 1st dorsal 2, 11, longest serrated spiny ray almost head length. 16 pectoral rays. 11 pelvic rays, fin inserted below pectoral base. 6-7-f scales from 1st dorsal to L.l. 9 10 rows of spinules on each scale. 9 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 10 ins. So far found only off the Cape in 300 950 fathoms. Genus Veiitrifossa Gilbert & llubbs, genotype Coryphaenoides garmani J. & G. 7 branchiostegal rays. Teeth in bands. Large 2nd dorsal ray spiniform, serrate. Small scales. Moderate number of smallish fishes of deep water of the Indo-Pacific, only one species in our area. 245. VF.Nl'RIFOSSA DIVERfiF.NS Gilbert & Hubbs. Rat-tail. Literature L 3, 571. Snout rather blunt, scaly below, barbel as long as eye. First dorsal 2, 11, longest serrated spiniform ray as long as head. A about 120. 9 pelvic rays, fin inserted below pectoral base. 7-8 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. 10 transverse rows of spinules on each scale. 12 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 8 ins. An East Indian species found in 300-400 fathoms off East London. Genus Lyconodes Gilchrist, genotype Lyconodes argenteus Glch. Rather blunt snout. No barbel. A single dorsal fin, front part barely elevated, no spinelike rays. Only one species. 246. LYCONODES ARGENTEUS Gilchrist. Rat-tail. Literature L 39. Fig. 246. LYCONODES ARGENTEUS Gilch. After Gilchrist. Teeth fine, pointed, variable in size, some larger, canine-like posteriorly in lower jaw. D about 110. A about 90. No barbel. Scales absent or easily shed. So far found only off the Cape in 500 fathoms. More specimens wanted. 136 BONY FISHES—Family G ADI DAE Genus Bathygadus Gunther, genotype Bathygadus cottoides Gnthr. Rather blunt snout. Barbel present or absent. 1st dorsal just separate from remainder, front rays not spiniform, 1st ray minute. Slender lorig gill- rakers. Teeth in bands. Numerous species in deep water of most oceans, 3 in our area. A. A small barbel present . . ... ... fwnoAis (247) B. No barbel. 1. Some fin rays filamentous ... . capeiP'T'' (248) 2. No fin rays filamentous ... . mckinohranchus (249) 247. BATHYGADUS FUMOSUS Boulenger. Rat-tail. Literature L 3. Snout rather blunt. Mouth extends behind eye. Teeth minute. A small barbel beneath chin. 1st dorsal 11, 2nd ray filamentous, twice head length. 16-17 pectoral rays, upper ray filamentous. 8 pelvie rays, outer ray filamentous. 6 scales between 1st dorsal and L.l. 27-29 gill-rakers. Silvery grey. Attains 18 ins. Solar found only off Cape Point in 480-810 fathoms. 248. BATHYGADUS CAPENSIS Gilchrist & von Bonde. Rat-tail. Literature L 49. Fig. 248. BATHYGADUS CAPENSIS G. & von B. After Gilchrist & von Bonde. Fairly blunt snout. Maxilla extends beyond eye. No barbel. First dorsal 10, 2nd ray filamentous, as long as head. 13 pectoral and 8 pelvic rays, each with filamentous ray. Scales small. Greyish. Attains 14 ins. So far found only off Table Bay in 400 fathoms. 249. B.4THYGADUS MELANOBRANCHUS Vaillant. Rat-tail. Literature L 49, 394, 406, 655. Snout fairly blunt. Mouth extends below eye. No barbel. First dorsal 9-12, front ray only slightly longer than posterior rays. A about 100. 8 pelvic rays. No filamentous pectoral or pelvic rays. Scales small. Silvery grey. Attains 18 ins. An Atlantic species found from the Cape to Natal in 500-1,400 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family G.ADID.AE The COD family Fairly elongate body, not much compressed, with small cycloid scales. No spines in any fin. 2 or 3 dorsal fins. Caudal free, usually truncate or rounded. Pelvics far forward, sometimes reduced each to a single filament. Barbels sometimes present below chin. Mouth moderate or large, teeth variable. Fishes mostly of deepish water, mainly of the Northern Hemisphere, where they are of great importance as food. The Cod of Europe and America is famous, and closely allied are the Whiting, Coalfish, Haddock. Pollack, Hake and other well-known food-fishes. Only one species is of commercial significance in South Africa, the “ Stock Fish ’ ' ( No. 257), which is landed in vast numbers, and which is so closely related to the European Hake that it is doubtful whether the two are different. Our other Gadids are rather rare, mostly small deep-sea forms, a few not uncommonly thrown ashore after storms. 10 genera in South Africa. BONY FISHES— Family G ADI DAE A. 3 dorsal fins . Tripterophycis 137 (250) B. 2 dorsal fins. 1. 1st dorsal of a single ray. (a) No barbels . Bregmaceros (251) (h) One barbel on chin . Gaidropsarus (252) 2. 1st dorsal of 4 rays... ... . . Antimora (253) 3. 1st dorsal of 5-11 rays. {a) 1st dorsal ray longer than head. (a) Pelvic of 1-3 rays ... ... ... ... . Laemonema (254) {}') Pelvic of 6-8 rays . . . . Haloporphyrus (255-256) (h) 1st dorsal ray not longer than head. (.y) Caudal square cut ... . Merluccius (257) (>’) Caudal pointed or rounded. (i) 5 rays in Lst dorsal . . . . Laemonemodes (258) (ii) 8-11 rays in 1st dorsal . Physiculus (259-260) 4. 1st dorsal of 60-70 rays . Melanonus (261) Genus Tripterophycis Boulenger, genotype Tripterophycis gilchristi Blgr. Elongate body with short snout. 3 dorsal fins, the 1st short. Small cycloid scales. One barbel on chin. One species only. 25(). I RIF’I EROPHYCIS GIECHRISTI Blgr. Literature L 3, 12, 39, 462. Fig. 250. TRIPTEROPHYCIS GILCHRISTI Blgr. Actual length 7 ins. Depth 6. D 4 -5+12-14 • 36-39. A 103-110. Pelvics of 5 rays, the 2 outer elongate. L.l. about 140. Caudal pointed, small. Mouth small, with square-cut, close-set teeth in one series in each jaw. Dark above, silvery on side, with belly dusky violet. Gullet brown. Attains 8 ins. First found off Cape Point in 200 fathoms, has since been found in deepish water in the East Indies. Will probably be found even more widely distributed. Genus Bregniaceros Thompson, genotype Breymaceros macclellandi Thomps. Elongate body with short snout. Two dorsal fins, the 1st of a single elongate ray on the head. Fairly small scales. No barbels. 2 species from deepish water of the tropics, one found in our area. 251. BRF.GMACF.ROS MACCLELLANDI Thompson. Literature L 47, 374, 527, 644. Fig. 251. BREGMACEROS MACCLELLAN D! Thomp. Actual length 33 ins. 138 BONY FISHES^Famiiy G ADI DAE Depth 7. D 1 -•- about 50. A about 50. Pelvics of 6-7 rays, the 3 inner rays long. L.l. about 60. Brownish above with fine light or dark speckling, silvery below. Attains 5 ins. Widely distributed through the tropical Indo-Pacific, from the surface down to 400 fathoms, extends as far as Agulhas. Is often found cast ashore, sometimes still alive, especially after stormy weather. The long 1st dorsal ray sticks fiat against the body rrrid is not easily visible. Genus Gaidropsarus Rafinesque, genotype Gadus mustela Linn. Elongate body with short rounded snout, lower jaw shorter than upper. A barbel on chin and 2 on snout. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of a longer ray with a number of short, almost concealed, rays. Small fishes of fairly shallow water, widely distributed, one species in our area. 252. GAIDROPSARUS CAPENSIS (Kaup). [Onos cape/isis.] Literature L 3, 232. Depth 6. D I 55 i 45. A 40. 7 pelvic rays, 2nd longe.st. Caudal rounded. Scales very small. Brown. Attains 6 ins. Found only in South Africa, mainly in rock pools. False Bay to Algoa Bay and down to 25 fathoms. Not common. Genus .Antiniora Gunther, genotype Htdopornbyrus rostratus Gnthr. Body elongate, with pointed snout which projects over the mouth. A barbel on chin. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 4-5 rays, 1st ray elongate. Smallish fishes from deep water of the great oceans, one from our area. 253. ANTIMORA AUSTRALIS Barnard. Literature L 3, 49. Depth 5|. D 4 r 50-54. A 38-40. 10 gill-rakers. Scales small, about 1 30 in L.l. 6 pelvic rays. Caudal truncate on slender peduncle. Brownish, gill cavity dark. Attains 12 ins. So far found only off the Cape in 400-900 fathoms. Doubtful if distinct from the Atlantic viola Goode & Bean. Genus Laemonema Gunther, genotype Phycis yarreUi Lowe. Body fairly elongate with blunt swollen snout. A barbel sometimes present. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 5 rays, with 1st ray elongate. Pelvics each of one ray, double terminally, or of 3 rays. Small fishes of deep water of the Atlantic, one in our area. 254. L.AEMONEMA GLOBICEPS Gilchrist. Literature L 3, 30. 39. Fig. 254. LAEMONEMA GLOBICEPS Glch. Actual length 6 ins. Depths. D5-70. A 60-70. 3 pelvic rays. Caudal rounded. Scales small, L.l. scales longer, separated. -6 gill-rakers. Silvery yellow. Attains 7 ms. So far found only olf the Cape in 300-800 fathoms. Genus Haloporphyrus Gunther, genotype Gadus lepidion Risso. Body elongate with short, blunt snout. A barbel on chin. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 4-9 rays, 1st ray elongate. Pelvics of 6-8 rays Fishes of deep water mainly from the Atlantic, some about Japan, 2 from our area. A. Barbel shorter than eye ... B. Barbel slightly longer than eye capensis (255) nalalensis (256) BONY FISHES — Family GAD! DAE 139 255. HALOPORPHYRUS CAPENSIS (Gilchrist). [Lepidion capensis.] Literature L 39, 644. Depth 41. D 5 i 50 56, 1st ray IJ times head. A 48-50. Pelvics of 7 rays. 9 gill-rakers. Barbel about I eye. Caudal truncate. Scales minute. Dusky. Attains 17 ins. Found only in South Africa in 200-600 fathoms from the Cape to East London. 256. HALOPORPHYRUS NAPALENSIS (Gilchrist). [Lepidion natalensis.] Literature L 39, 644. Depth 5. D 5 i about 60, 1st ray I i; 2 times head. A about 50. Scales minute. Pelvics of 7 rays. 9 gill-rakers. Caudal rounded. Barbel just longer than eye. Pinkish grey, margins of dorsal and anal, and caudal fin, black. Attains 16 ins. In deep water off Natal northwards. Genus Mcrluccius Rafmesque, genotype G'a(/w.s- merluccius Linn. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of II rays. Caudal truneate. Snout elongate, mouth large. Rather large fishes mostly of deepish water. One species in our area. 257. MERI.UCCIUS CAF’ENSIS Castlenau. Stockfish. Stokvis. Literature L 3, 39, 47, 51, 251, 644. Depth 6. Dll ; 35-42. A 37-40. L.l. 125-140. 13-14 gill-rakers. Lower Jaw projects. Attains 48 ins. Is found in 20-500 fathoms, in greatest abundance on our west coast, and e.Ktends, but is progressively scarcer, eastwards to or just beyond East London. This is probably connected with the food chain dependent upon the nitrogen and phosphate content of the sea (see “ The S.A. Region "). The Stockfish is commercially the most important single species in South Africa, being taken in great quantity by trawl, numbers also by line boats. Occasionally the shoals disappear. Their movements are not yet understood and research on food, reproduction and movement is necessary. On our south coast the shoals appear to move inshore in summer, and out to deeper water in winter. Whereas Stockfish were formerly trawled only in 40-80 fathoms, boats now operate successfully to 300 fathoms. The flesh is delicate and well flavoured when fresh, but spoils rapidly, and is rather insipid after being kept on ice. Our species is very like the European Hake, Merluccius merluccius Linn. Genus Laemonemodes Gilchrist, genotype the single species. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 5 rays. Pelvic with 8 rays, the outer 2 elongate, united, the inner 6 minute. A single species. 140 BONY FISHES— Family GADIDAE 258. LAEMONEMODES COMPRESSICAUDA Gilchrist. Literature L 27, 39. Fig. 258. LAEMONEMODES COMPRESSICAUDA Glch. After Gilchrist. Depth 51. D 5 - 46. A 46. Scales small. Blackish. A barbel on chin. A poorly known species, specimens ever found, 300-400 fathoms off East London. Only 2 Genus Physiculu.s Kaup, genotype Physicu/us (ialwigkii Kaup. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 9-1 I rays, none very long. Caudal pointed or rounded. Pelvics of 7 rays, the outer 2 elongate. Found in deepish water in most oceans, 2 species in our area. A. 8 rays in 1st dorsal . nataicnsis (259) B. 10-11 rays in 1st dorsal . capensis (260) 259. PHYSICULUS NATALENSIS Gilchrist. Literature L 39. Depth 5. D 8 • 62. Height of 1st dorsal about | head length. A 66. Scales very small. 7-8 gill-rakers plus 2 rudiments. Maxilla reaches below centre of eye. Barbel about equals eye. L.l. about 100, 7-8 between 1st dorsal and L.l. Silvery brown, belly violet. Attains 10 ins. Taken in 180-250 fathoms off the Natal coast. 260. PHYSTCUI.US CAPENSIS Gilchrist. Literature L 3, 39. Fig. 260. PH YSICULUS CAPENSIS Glch. Actual length 7 ins. Depth 4|. D 10 11- 50-60. A 60-65. Scales small, about 100 in L.l. 7 gill-rakers Barbel » eve Yellow, with belly dusky violet. Attains 7 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape Peninsula to East London in _0 300 fathoms. Occasionally cast ashore after storms. Genus .Melanonus Gunther, genotype the single species. Caudal pointed. No barbel on chin. A single species. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st longer than 2nd. 2 anal fins. 261. MELANONUS GRACILIS Gunther. Literature L 25, 329, 462, 644. 655. Depth 63-7. D 60-70- 21. A 50-53 - 21. Scales small. 5 pelvic rays. Black. Attains 6 ins. Very deep water of the Southern Hemisphere. Our specimens in 350-1,500 fathoms off the Cape. 261 Fig. 261. MELANONUS GRACILIS Gunther. After Gunther. BONY FISHES— Families LAMPR/DAE and TRACHIPTERI DAE 141 ORDER ALLOTRIOGNATHI (262-267) A few rare fishes of curious structure are grouped here. They differ widely in external form, but have certain internal features in common, including a highly oblique mouth, sometimes of peculiar structure Three families. A. Depth about 2 . Lampridae (262) B. Depth 3) to more. !. Dorsal starts behind snout tip . Trachypteridae (263-265) 2. Dorsal starts above or before snout tip . Lophotidae (266-267) Family LAMPRIDAE Compressed more or less oval body with minute scales. No teeth. Pectorals fold downwards. No fin spines. A single genus, I.ampris Retzius, with only one species. 262. LAMPRIS REGIUS ( Bonnaterre). [I^ampris luna Gmcl., or ptdagicus Smitt, or immacu/ata G\ch.] Opah. Moontish. Kingfish. Peixe Cravo (Portuguese). Literature L 28, 387, 655. Plate 8, p. 144. Depth about 2, but variable. D 52-55. A 36 41. An exceedingly beautiful fish, but variable in colour, blue, silvery or pink, often with large light spots. Fins red. Attains 6 ft. Rare but widely distributed, mostly in deep water, only twice found near the Cape. Flesh highly prizxd. An unusual combination of size, beauty and good eating. Fami ly TRACMIPTERIDAE Elongate ribbon-like naked body, with dorsal fin along most of back, and small up-turned tail. Fragile fishes, many of large size, rarely seen, usually live in the depths, and some are almost small editions of the legendary “Sea Serpent". These fishes are all very “Silvery”, and when handled this “Silvery stuff” eoats everything tenaciously. It is composed of fine scales of a shiny substance, “ Guanin ”, which is really a waste product of the kidneys, and appears to be produced most readily by oily fishes. In the skin these fine plates reflect the light and so give the metallic appearance. 2 genera in our area. A. Pelvics of one long ray ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Regalecus (263) B. Pelvics of 5 or more rays... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Trachipterus (264 265) Genus Regalecus Brunnich, genotype the single species. Long, ribbon-like body. Pelvics one long ray. Caudal absent except in young. C rest on head erectile. In all seas, but rare, likely seen only when damaged or ill. 263. RECi.ALEC'US (iLESNE (Ascanius). King-of-the-Herrings. Oarfish. Chinesefish (Cape Coloured name). Literature L 3, 162, 616, 655. Plate 13, p. 177. Fragile body and fins, rarely 2 specimens alike as result of damage. Markings on side variable in nature and size. Exceedingly beautiful when alive. Attains at least 16 ft. Occurs in almost all seas, in our area thrown ashore from the Cape to Natal. Genus Trachipterus Gouan, genotype Cepo/a irachvptera Gmel. Band-like or sometimes rounded body. Pelvics of 5 or more rays. 3 species in our area. All specimens of these rare fishes should he carefully preserved. A. Body tapers from head posteriorly. 1. Ventral profile even ... iris (264) 2. Margin of belly undulate ... cristatus (264a) B. Body deepest about midway ... arcticus (265) 264. TRACHIPTERUS IRIS (Walbaum). Dealfish. King-of-the-Herrings. Literature L 3, 248, 394, 616. For juvenile see Appendix. Depth 5L D about 165, 1st 6 elevated. Caudal with 8 rays pointing upward. Brilliant silvery. Fins red. Attains at least 4 ft. An Atlantic species which has been found at the Cape. Fig. 264. TRACHIPTERUS IRIS (Walb.). After C. & V. 142 BONY FISHES—Family LOPHOTIDAE 264a. TRACHIPTERUS CRISTATUS Bonelli. [Trachyptenis semiophorus BIkr., or honellii C. & V.) Literature L 248, 544. Fig. 264a. TRACHIPTERUS CRISTATUS Bonelli. Actual length ins. Body deepest at shoulder, depth about 3^. D 6 • 115128. 5 pelvic rays, outer broken, would when whole be larger than shown above. Upper 8 eaudal rays point upwards, about 4 rudimentary lower rays. L.l. spinose, runs to ventral surface behind vent. Skin behind vent papillose. 8 laterally compressed gill-rakers. Bright silvery, fins stated to be red in life. Attains 7 ins. Only 2 or 3 specimens know n, reported from northern Atlantic, and from the Far East, and one recently from Durban. .All specimens should be preserved with care. 265. TRACHIPTERUS .ARCTICUS (Brunnich). Deal Fish. Literature L 3, 387. Body deepest about midway of length, tapers rapidly thereafter to caudal. Depth about 5A. D about 170, front 6 rays elevated. Caudal of 8 rays pointing upwards. Silvery with 2~3 equally spaced large dark blotches along side. Fins red. Attains at least 8 ft. An Atlantic species once found at the Cape. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family LOPHOTIDAE Elongate ribbon-like body without scales. Head elevated in front, with dorsal fin originating there. Rare fishes, about which little is known, living in moderately deep water. Flesh excellent. Only one genus, Eophotes Giorna, genotype Eophotes cepedianus Giorna, with 2 species in our area, easily distinguished. 266. EOPHOTES CEPEDI.ANUS Giorna. Literature L 3, 425, 477, 655. 266 Fig. 266. LOPHOTES CEPEDIANUS Giorna. After Boulenger. Depth about 6. D about 240. A 18-20. Silvery, with brilliant silvery spots. Fins red. Attains at least 6 ft. Widespread but rare, so far found 3 times on our shores. Cape to Mossel Bay. BONY FISHES — Family ZEIDAE 143 267. LOPHOTES FISKII Gunther. [Lophotopsis or Eumecichthys fiskii.] Literature L 3, 381. Fig. 267. LOPHOTES fTSKI/ Gnthr. After Matsubara. Depth about 25, head length, without projection, about 15 in body length. 1st dorsal ray strong. One specimen 50 ins. long at Kalk Bay, Cape, any others seen should be preserved. Has been found in Japanese waters also. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER ZEOIDEF (268-279) Characteristic deep bodied compressed fishes, mostly with extensible mouth and feeble teeth, most with rather solemn expressions, almost all from deep water. Two families, the ZEIDAE with no or normal scales, the GRAMMICOLEPIDAE with curious vertically elongated scales. Family ZEID.AE JOHN I30RIf:S Short deep compressed body, either naked or with small scales, sometimes large bony plates or bucklers. Mouth highly protractile, concertina-like. 8 genera in our area. A. 9-10 dorsal spines. 1. More than 35 anal rays ... . 2. Less than 30 anal rays. (a) 3 anal spines ... ... . {h) 4 anal spines B. 6-8 dorsal spines. 1. At most 1 anal spine 2. 2-4 anal spines. (a) Pelvics large, without spine (h) Pelvics short, with spine. (i) Flank scales deciduous . (ii) Flank scales firmly adherent. (x) Enlarged plates below pectoral (j) No enlarged plates below pectoral Cyttoklops (268) Zenopsis (269) Zeus (270-271) Zenion {lll-TTi) Zen (274) Cyttosoma (275-276) AUocyttus (277) Neocyttus (278) Genus Cyttoidops now, genotype Cyttoides jacksoni Smith. Deep body with small scales. Small bony scutes as 2 abdominal ridges. One species. 144 BONY FISHES— Family ZEIDAE Fig. 268. CYTTOIDOPS MCCULLOCH! (Whit.). Actual length 18 ins. Left, nioiilh protruded. 268. CYTTOIDOPS MCCULLOCHl (Whitley). John Dory Barnard & Davies, or mccuHochi Whit.] Literature L 8, 86. [Cyttoidex jacksoni Smith. Cytlus vpfitralis Depth I?. D X • 33- 35. A II 37-39. 12 gill-rakers plus 4 rudiments. L.l. about 125. Dark grey-brown. Attains 20 ins. From off the Cape to Algoa Bay in 200 fathoms, has been found in Australian waters olso. It is remarkable that this previously unknown fish was recently found here and ifl Australia almost simultaneously. Genus Zenopsis Gill, genotype Zeus conchifer Lowe. 3 anal spines. Large spiny plates along bases of dorsal and soft anal. Only one species. 269. ZENOPSIS CONCHIFER (Lowe). John Dory. Literature L 3, 19, 39, 655. Depth about 2. D IX-X 24-26. A 111 24-26. 7-10 short gill-rakers. Silvery grey. Attains 30 ins. An Atlantic species taken from Knysna to Natal down to 200 fathoms. Genus Zeus Linn., genotype Zeus faher Linn. 4 anal spines. 9 -10 dorsal spines. Scales small or absent. Spiny plates below soft dorsal and anal. 2 species. A. Spot either above L.l. or absent . ... ... ... f'ahc'r (270) B. Spot below L.l . japonict/s (271) Literature 270. ZEUS FABER Linn. [Zeus capeusis Cuv.] John Dory. Girtie. Gallocristo (Portuguese). L 21, 30, 39, 655. Fig. 270. ZEUS FABER Linn. Actual length 24 ins. Depth about 2. D IX-X 21-24. A IV 20-22. 9 gill-rakers. Scales small. 7 9 scutes along belly. Silvery grey, young with large dark spot above L.l. Attains at least 3 ft. Occurs in deepish water oT most oceans, is not uncommon in our whole area down to 200 fathoms. A ragged-looking flabby fish, flesh good, appearance against its popular use as food, taken in fair numbers, used to make fish meal. PLATE 8 262. Lampris regius, 5 ft. 284. Monocenlris japonicus, 4 ins. 287. Actinoberyx longipinnii 12 ins. 288. Huplos- tethus medilerraneiis. 8 ins. 291. Gephyroheryx darwini, 8 ins. Actual length stated in each case. % BONY FISHES— Family ZEIDAE 145 271. ZEUS JAPONICUS Cuv. John Dory. Literature L 3, 14, 162. Fig. 271. ZEUS JAPONICUS Cuv. Actual length 12 ins. Depth about 2. D X 21-24. A IV 20-22. 8-9 spinose scutes along belly. Silver-grey. Attains 18 ins. An Indo-Pacific species not uncommon from False Bay to Dclagoa Bay down to 200 fathoms. Genus Zenion Jordan & Evermann, genotype Cyllus hololepis G. & B. Body rather elongate, fully scaled. 6-8 dorsal spines. No, or one feeble anal spine. A. A 23 . ... . ... . ■■■ hololepis (272) B. A 1 32 . leplolepis (273) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 272. ZENION HOLOLEPIS (Goode & Bean). [Cyllus hololepis.] Literature L 49, 394, 412. Depth about 21,. D VI-VII 25-26. A 23. 14-15 small gill-rakers. L.l. 67. Probably silvery with reddish sheen. Attains 4 ins. An Atlantic species found olf Delagoa Bay in 240 fathoms. Rare. 273. ZENION LEPTOI.EPIS (Gilchrist & von Bonde). [Civn/.v leplolepis.] Literature L 49. Depth about 2.'. D VI 1 28. A 1 32. L.l. 90. So far known only from off Natal and Delagoa in 200 fathoms. Rare. Genus Zen Jordan, genotype Cyllopsis ilea J. & S. Two anal spines. Small scales. Large pelvics with no spine. One species in our area. Fig. 272. ZENION HOLOLEPIS (G. & B.). After Goode & Bean. 274. ZEN SCUTATUS (Gilchrist & von Bonde). [Paracyltopsis scutatus.] Literature L 49, 695. Depth 1|. D VII 28. A II 29. L.l. 84. Silvery grey. Attains 5 ins. So far known from Natal to the Maidive Islands in 200-250 fathoms. Rare. 11 146 BONY FISHES— Family ZEIDAE Genus Cyttosoma Gilchrist, genotype Cyttosoma hoops Gilchrist. 2-3 anal spines. Small scales. Pelvics normal, with spine. Two species. D Vl-VIIl 29-31. A III . hoops (275) B. D VI 34. A II . manilatus (276) 275. CYTTOSOMA BOOPS Gilchrist. Literature L 3, 28, 30, 49, 534. Depth about l^. D VI-VIII 29-31. A III 28-30. L.l. about 100. Brownish. Attains 8 ins. Originally found in l(X)-800 fathoms from the Cape to Natal, since discovered in .Australian waters also. 276. CYTTOSOMA MACULATUS (Gilchrist). [Pseiuhcyttus maculatus.] Literature L 30. Depth about IJ. D VI 34. A II 30. L.l. about 100. Greyish with blue spots. Only one specimen ever found, otf the Cape in 400 fathoms. Genus Allocyttus McCulloch, genotype Cyttosoma vcrru- iosum Glch. 2-3 anal spines. Pelvics normal, with spine. Scales firm. Enlarged plates below pectoral. One species. Fig. 275. CYTTOSOMA BOOPS Cheh. Actual length 6 ins. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 277. ALLOCYTTUS VERRUCOSUS (Gilchrist). [Cyttosoma verrucosus.] Literature L 30, 39, 534. Fig. 277. ALLOCYTTUS VERRUCOSUS (Glch.). Actual length 7 ins. AII-ln 28-29. L.l.abou,90. Yellow-brown, young wi.h rounded blolchcs. First found down to 900 fathoms. Cape to Natal, later in Australia also. Genus Neocyttus Gilchrist spine. Scales small, adherent. , genotype Neocyttus rhomhoklalis Glch. 3^ anal spines. Pelvies normal, with No enlarged plates below pectoral. 2 species, one in our area. BONY FISHES— Family GRAMMICOLEPIDAE 147 278. NEOCYTTUS RHOMBOIDALIS Gilchrist. Literature L 30, 39, 534. Kig. 278, NEOCYTTUS RHOMBOIDALIS Glch. Actual length 6 ins. Depth about IJ. D VI-VIII 33-35. A 111 IV 30-33. L.l. about 100. Silvery grey. Attains 12 ins. First found in 600 fathoms olf Cape Point, later in Australian waters also. Family GRAM\1ICOI.EPIDAE Curious deep-bodied compressed small fishes of deep water, characterised by curious vertically elongated scales. 3 genera, only 1 in our area. Genus Xenolepidichthys Gilchrist, genotype Xenolepidichthys dalgleiihi Glch. Body deep and compressed. Scales vertically striate. 2 species, easily distinguished by several features. 279. XENOI.EPIDICHTHYS DAI.GLEISHI Gilchrist. Literature L 3, 21, 39, 67, 670. Depth about 1, deeper in juveniles. D V 27-29, 2nd spine longest, filamentous in young, shorter with age, 3rd to 5th also long. A II 27 29, 1st spine longest, filamentous in young, shorter with age. 15 gill-rakers. Silvery yellow. Attains 5 ins. First found in our area from Walfish Bay to Natal, in 70-250 fathoms, fairly often thrown ashore after storms. Has since been found in deep water off the South American coast and in the Pacific also. 279a. XENOLEPIDICHTHYS AMERICANLS Nichols & F'irth. Literature L la. Depth about 2. D VII 32. A II 33, 1st spine more than half total length. 12-13 gill-rakers. About 9 flattened spines on side of body. Silvery. Attains 10 ins. Deep water of the Atlantic, has been found off Table Bay in 250 fathoms. Head shaped much like that of Fig. 279, body less deep. Fig. 279. XENOLEPIDICHTHYS DALGLEISHI Glch Juvenile. Actual length 2 ins. 148 BONY FISHES— Family MELAMPHAIDAE ORDER XENOBERYCES (280-282) Fairly elongate body with large scales easily shed. No teeth on palate. Small fishes of deep water, of interest only to the specialist. One family in our area. Family MEL.4MPH.4IDAE Curious small fishes of the depths with large but flimsy heads. A few spines in fins. Scales present. One genus in our area, Melamphaes Gunther, genotype Metopias typhlops Lowe. About a dozen species, 3 in our area. A. L.l. less than 20 . ... ... /u/roA’/u.r (280) B. L.l. 25 . unicarnis (281) C. L.l. 30-35 . mepalops (282) 280. 644, 655. 1VIELAMPH.4ES MIZOLEPIS (Gunther). [Pleciromus mizoU’pis.] Literature L 39, 329, 462, 616, Fig. 280. MELAMPHAES MIZOLEPIS (Gnthr.). .After Braucr. Depth about 3J. Dll-1119-11. A 1-11 8. L.l. 12-16. About 1 6 gill-rakers. Dark coloured. Attains 5 ins. In most oceans to 2,000 fathoms, taken at 500 fathoms off the Cape. Rare. 281. MELAMPHAES UNICORNIS Gilbert. [Pk'Ctronms coronatus G. & von B.j Literature L 7, 49, 458. Depth about 3.L D III 10-11. A I 9. L.l. 25. 22 gill-rakers. A crown-like crest above eye. Dark coloured. Attains 2.' ins. Rare, found at depths in the Atlantic and Pacific, at 500-1,000 fathoms off the Cape and St. Helena Bay. 282. MELAMPHAES MEGALOPS Lutken. [Pleciromus macrophthahnus Glch.] Literature L 7, 27, 39, 644, 655. Depth about 3|. D II-IH 10-11. A 1 9-10. L.l. 30-35. 17-18 gill-rakers. Darkish. Attains 3 ins. Deep water of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, found off the Cape in 1,000 fathoms. Rare. Fig. 282. MELAMPHAES MECALOPS Lutk. After Ciuniher. ORDER BERYCOIDEI (283-298) SLIMEHEADS: SOLDIERFISHES Fairly deep body with normal scales, or with bony scutes, often spiny. Often bony ridges and an elaborate muciferous canal system on the head. While a number are from fairly deep water and rarely seen, some are quite well known brilliant shore fishes of the tropics. 6 families in our area. A. Barbels on chin ... , . . ■ • ... Polymixiulae B. No barbels on chin. 1. Scales form bony case 2. Scales normal. (a) No lateral line ... (h) Lateral line present. (.v) 4 dorsal spines (>') 5-8 dorsal spines .. (z) 11-12 dorsal spines M onocentridae Diretmidae (283) (284) (285) Berycidae (286-287) Trachichthyidae (288-293) Holocentridae (294-298) *< '- I. «>*'?" • -. ^/^ ' . t'^ . ''■’ '.v “.'Ai .. *3 - -■ . , IL- ‘ '■ '* -'W " ^ ■* . ■^ ' •' ■* w. , :,»•= ; ' fjH.,, i,. "i.. /B-j/"'?*- PLATE 9 \ 294. Holocemrus sammara, 8 ins. 296. Hohcentrus diadeina, 8 ins. 297. Hnloccninis /acteof'iitlalii.'i, 5 ins. 298. Myripristis muntjan, 8 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Families POLYMIX/fDAE and MONOCENTR! DAE 149 Family POLYMIXIIDAE Curious small deep-water fishes with long barbels beneath the chin. Fine teeth in jaws and on palate. Only one genus, Polymixia Lowe, genotype Polymixia nohilis Lowe, few species, one in our area. 283. POLYMIXIA NOBILES Lowe. Salmon de Alto (Portuguese). Barbudo (Spanish). Literature L 3 39, 367, 394, 616, 655. Fig. 283. I'OLYM/XIA NODIl.IS Lowe. Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 2,:-;. Interorbital slightly less than eye. D V 27 38. A 111 IV 16 18. L.l. about 50. 6 normal gill-rakers plus 2 3 rudiments. Colour variable, greenish or brown with reddish tints on head. Attains 10 ins. Occurs in 100-200 fathoms in all oceans, nowhere abundant in our area, found in Natal. Fam i ly MONOCENTR I D AE Small, plump fishes with the scales enlarged to form a solid rough armour. Live mostly in deepish water. 2 closely-related genera, one in our area, .Monocentris Bloch-Schneider, genotype Gaslerosteus japonicus Houtt. 2 species, 1 in our area. 284. MONOCENTRIS .JAPONICUS (Houttuyn). Literature L 3, 39, 116, 152, 616. Plate 8, p. 144. Fig. 284. MONOCENTR/S JAPONICUS (Houtt.). Actual length 3i ins. Depth about I ij. D V-VI - 11-12. Dorsal spines “ heteracanth ”, and stick out sideways when erect. A 1 11 8-9. L.l. 15. Has a phosphorescent organ each side of lower jaw. Attains 5 ins. An Indo-Pacific species, widespread, mostly in 20-100 fathoms, not uncommon. Known from Mossel Bay to Delagoa Bay. 150 BONY FISHES— Families DIRETMIDAE and BERYCIDAE Family DIRETMIDAE Deep compressed body with sharp edge to abdomen, bearing scutes in adult. Small spiny scales, no L.l Only one genus, Dirctnius Johnson, genotype the single species. 285. DIRETMUS ARGENTEUS Johnson. Literature L 9, 367, 394, 655. Fig. 285. DIRETMUS ARGENTEUS Johns. After Goode & Bean. Depth 11 in juveniles to 2 in adult. Interorbital J eye. D 24-28. A 21-23. 60-80 series of scales. Tr. about 50. 1 1-12 gill-rakers. Silvery. Attains 16 ins. A rare fish, though found over a wide range of most oceans in deep water. Has been taken on our west coast. Family BERYCIDAE Compressed body. 2-8 feeble dorsal spines. Scales rather rough. Brightly coloured fishes of deep water of all seas. 2 genera in our area. A. No spines about snout . Beryx (286) B. Strong spines about snout . ... ... ... Actinoheryx (287) Genus Beryx Cuvier, genotype Beryx decadactylus Cuv. Head not spiny nor markedly serrate. Few speeies, one in our area. 286. BERYX SPLENDENS Lowe. .Alfoncino (Portuguese). Literature L 5, 7, 394, 655. Fig. 286. BER YX SPLENDENS Lowe. Actual length 9 ins. BONY FISHES—Family TRACHICHTH YI DAE 151 Depth about 2|. D IV 13-15. A IV 25-29. L.l. about 75. Tr. 8,20. Scales rough. Brilliant silvery below and on sides, scarlet above and inside mouth. Fins scarlet. A beautiful fish. Attains 25 ins. In most oceans to 400 fathoms, not uncommon about Madeira, a well known and esteemed table fish there, has been found off the west coast and the Cape, not common in our area. Genus Actinoberyx Roule, genotype Actinoheryx jugeati Roule. Head markedly spiny and serrate. Fins elongated. One species. 287. ACTINOBERYX LONGIPINNIS (Barnard), [lieryx longipinnis.] Literature L 2, 3. Plate 8, p. 144. Depth about 2. D IV 18-19. A IV 26-27. L.l. about 60. Tr. I() 20. 17-18 gill-rakers. A beautiful but somewhat spiny creature. Known only from the Cape in 300 fathoms. Rare. Lamily TRACHICHI HYIDAE SEFME HEADS Body fairly deep, moderately compressed. Head large, with thin surface bones bearing bony ridges bordering mucous channels. Few spines in fins, but fishes generally spiny or rough. Reddish fishes of deep water of most oceans. Three genera in our area. A. 1-3 anal spines. 1. 6 dorsal spines . Uoplostethus (288-290) 2. 8 dorsal spines . Gephyroheryx (291-292) B. 4 anal spines . Trachichthodes (293) Genus Uoplostethus Valenciennes, genotype Uoplostethus mediterraneus Val. Short deep body with rough scales. No teeth on vomer. 3 anal spines. A few species, all reddish, 3 in our area. A. D VI 12-15... ■■■ ■■■ ••• mediterraneus (288) B. D VI 17 18. 1. 18 feeble enlarged scutes along belly ... ... . gilchristi (289) 2. Scutes along belly barely visible . atlanticus (290) 288. IIOPEOSTETIICS .MEDI I'ERRANEUS Valenciennes. Literature L 3, 39, 152, 394, 419, 504, 655. Adult. Plate 8, Mg. 28S. llOf’LOSThTflUS MEQITERRASEl’S Val. Juvenile, actual length 3 ins. Depth about 2. D VI 12 15. A III 9 II. L.l. 28 30. 11 13 enlarged scutes along belly. 15 slender gill-rakers. Variably rosy to reddish. Attains 12 ins. Deep water of all oceans, occurs over most of our area in 200-500 fathoms. 289. HOPLOSTETHUS GILCHRISTl Smith. Literature L 67. Depth about 2i. D VI 17-18. A 111 II. 14 gill-rakers. L.l. 33. 18 feeble enlarged scutes along belly. Only one specimen 9 ins. long taken off Durban in 300 fathoms, probably reddish in life. 152 BONY FISHES— Family TRACHICHTH Yl DAE 290. FIOPLOSTETHUS ATLANTICUS Collett. Literature L 394, 644. Depth about 2|. D VI 17. A 111 II. Scales small. Scutes along belly feeble, barely discernible. Reddish. Attains 17 ins. Deep water of the Atlantic, has been taken off the Cape. Genus Gephyroberyx Boulenger, genotype Trachichthys danvini Johnson. Short deep body with rough scales. Fine teeth on vomer. 8 dorsal, 3 anal spines. 2 species in our area, easily distinguished by body shape. 291. GEPHYROBERYX DARWINl (Johnson). Literature L 3, 21, 39, 274, 394, 572, 655. Plate 8, p. 144. Depth 2], D Vlll 14. A Ill 11-12. L.l. 27-30. 10-12 scutes along belly. Attains 18 ins. In deep water of most oceans, taken off Natal in 150 fathoms. 292. GEPHYROBERYX ORBICULARIS Smith. Literature L 86. Depth 1|. D VIII 13. A 111 11. L.l. 30. 13 scutes along belly. 15 gill-rakers. A single specimen 5 ins. long taken in 120 fathoms off Algoa Bay. Mainly reddish. Genus Traehichthodes Gilchrist, genotype Trachichthodes spinosus Glch. Deep body with rough scales. 6 dorsal and 4 anal spines. 1 species in our area. 293. TRACHICHTHODES SPINOSUS Glch. Literature L 3, 21, 27. Depth about 2. D VI 14-15. A IV 15. L.l. 40-45. Attains 3 ins. A spiny small fish so far found only from off Algoa Bay to beyond East London in 50-200 fathoms. BONY FISHES— Family HOLOCENTRI DAE 153 Family HOLOCENTRFDAE SOLDIER FISHES Characteristic brilliantly coloured fishes of the tropics, with spines, serrations and rough scales. 4 anal spines. Most live about reefs or rocks in rather shallow water. 2 genera in our area. A. A marked spine at angle of preopercle . Holocentrus (294-297) B. No spine at preopercle angle . Myripristis (298) Genus Holocentrus Gronow (sometimes written Holocentrum), genotype Holocentrus sogo Bloch. A strong spine at angle of preopercle. 4 species in our area, easily distinguished by colour and markings. 294. HOLOCENTRUS SAMMARA (Forskal). Literature L 72, 113, 461, 616. Plate 9, p. 149. Depth about 3^. Interorbital I eye. D XI 11-12. A IV 7-8. L.l. 38-44. Tr. 3/7. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, oceasionally wanders south as far as Durban. A lovely fish. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 295. HOLOCENTRUS RUBRUM (Forskal). Literature L 3, 38, 113, 328, 616. Fig. 295. HOLOCENTRUS RUBRUM (Forsk). Actual length 5 ins. Depth 2J. Interorbital 1 eye. D XI XII 12-14. A IV 8-10. L.l. 33-36. Tr. 3 6. Mainly red, with silvery stripes along body. Attains 8 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban. 296. HOLOCEN TRUS DI.ADEM.A Lacepede. Literature L 3, 14, 21, 128, 328, 461, 616. Plate 9, p. 149. Depth about 3i. Interorbital | eye. D Xl-Xll 12-13. A IV 8-9. L.l. 46-48. Tr. 3/8. Attains 9 ins. Red with light stripes. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, is the most abundant species in our area, reaches as far south as East London. 297. HOLOCENTRUS LACTEOGUTTATUS (C. & V.). [Holocentrus argenteus Cuv. or gracilispinus Fwlr 1 Literature L 86, 152, .305, 461, 527, 616. Plate 9. p. 149. Depth about 3. Interorbital | eye. D XI-XIl 12-13. A IV 8-10. L.L 40-44. Tr. 3,8. Attains 5 ins. A central Indo-Pacific species which has been found at Delagoa Bay. Genus Myripristis Cuvier, genotype Myripristis jacobus Cuv. A small spine on opercle, but no large spine at preopercle angle. Scales moderately rough. Fishes of tropical seas, 2 species in our area, distinguished by markings. No. 298 overleaf. For adustus (No. 298a) see Appendix, p. 503, and Plate 35, p. 249. 154 BONY FISHES— Family PSETTODIDAE 298. MYRIPRISTIS MORDJAN (Forsk.). Literature L 3, 14. 113, 328,461, 580, 616. Plate 9, p. 149 Depth 2i’. D XI 13-15. A IV 12-14. L.l. 28-30. Tr. .3/7. 21-22 gill-rakers. Colour rather variable, always mainly bright red, black markings on fins sometimes absent. Attains 12 ins. A tropical Inclo-Pacific species, found as far south as East London, abundant about reefs north of Durban. ORDER HETEROSOMATA (299-34.3) FLATFISHES: SOLES: FLOUNDERS A group of rather specialised fishes found in most seas, which arc characterised by asymmetry, primarily that of the eyes, for in the adult these lie on one side of the head, either right or left. In addition, the two sides of a Flatfish generally differ in colour, in the nature of the scales, and of the lateral line. These fishes arc closely related to ordinary Perch-like fishes, and the newly hatched larval young is normal in being symmetrical, with an eye on each side of the head. With growth one or other eye migrates over the top of the head, usually in front of the dorsal fin, which at that stage does not extend over onto the head, but as soon as the eye has passed, the dorsal moves forward to the snout. In some cases the eye passes through the base of the dorsal fin which opens to permit the passage. Flatfishes spend most of their time on the bottom resting on the blind side, which is mostly colourless, while the pigmented eyed upper side assumes for concealment a pattern and colour to match the surroundings, usually in a remarkably successful manner. Flatfishes have the power of varying colour and pattern over a wide range and with fair speed. This has been found to be a function of sight, and that blind fishes are unable to do it. Since a number of ordinary fishes are known to sleep, or at least to rest on otic side, it has been suggested that Flatfishes have developed from some ancestral form which indulged in that habit. When at rest on the bottom, these fishes are able to protrude the eyes upwards to a remarkable extent and to move them about in that position. The advantage of this to a Flatfish concealed on the bottom is obvious. While most specimens become asymmetric one way, i.e. either right or left, freaks occur, and abnormalities arc not uncommon. Thus right-handed (dextral) forms do occur in species in which most are left-handed (sinistral), and vice-versa, also sometimes examples pigmented on both sides are found. As these fishes are rather variable in form, .systemati.sts tend to create a number of artificial species when working with limited material. Flatfishes are mo.stly predaceous and carnivorous, feeding on small fishes, Crustacea, worms, etc. They live mostly in water of moderate depth, a few extending to deep water, while some live close inshore, even in estuaries. Generally they migrate inshore in summer, to deeper water in winter. The eggs are small, pelagic, and produced in great numbers. Greatly esteemed for their delicate flesh, many species ol Flatfishes are of importance as food and eagerly sought by commercial fishermen. Soling grounds are rapidly depleted bv trawlina, and national or even world-wide legislation to control these fishes is only a matter of time. Most Flatfishes are small, but some attain a fair size, the Halibut of the Northern Atlantic attaining a length of 10 ft. and a weight of .5(X) lbs. The amateur may find difficulty with this group, for even experts are as yet by no means unanimous, and adeejuate material for study is lacking in some cases. 5 families with 45 species are recognised in our area. A. Dorsal fin not on head B. Dorsal fin on head also. 1. Preopercle margin free. {a) Dextral . (6) Sinistral . 2. Preopercle edge covered by skin. (а) Dextral . (б) Sinistral ... Psettodidae ( 299) Pk’uronectidac ( 300—303 ) Botliidae ( 304 - 318) Solc’idae (319-331) Cynoglossidae (332—343) Family PSETTODIDAE Dorsal fin not on head, front rays spiniform. Mouth large, teeth well developed. Preopercle margin free. Migrated eye on top of head. In most skeletal features more like an ordinary fish than any other Flatfish. Only one genus, Psettodes Bennett, genotype Psettodes helciteri Bennett. 2 species, one tropical West Africa the other Indo-Pacific, doubtfully distinct. BONY FISHES— Family PLEURONECTJDAE 155 299. PSETTODES ERUMEI (Schneider). Adalah. Kalankan (East Indies). Literature L 3, 127, 281, 328, 616, 643, 655. Fig. 299. rSETTOOES ERUMEI (Schn.). Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 2|. D 50-56. A 34 43. E.I. 68-76. Attains 25 ins. As many with eyes on left (sinistral) as on right side (dextral). Widespread in the Indo-Pacific from the shore down to 50 fathoms, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay. Family PEEURONECTIDAE Eyes on right side. Dorsal fm extends on head to above eye or beyond. Mouth terminal, no palatine teeth. Margin of preopercle free. F'ishes of warm seas, some in deep water, mainly small, a few attain a great size, notably the Halibut of northern seas. 4 genera in our area. A. Dorsal origin above eyes. 1. Front dorsal rays enlarged ... 2. Front dorsal rays not enlarged B. Dorsal origin in front of eyes. 1. L.l. arched in front . 2. L.l. almost straight ... . Genus Marleyclla Fowler, genotype the single species, rays and pelvic rays enlarged, especially in the male. . ... ... Marleyella (300) ... Poecilopsetta (301) . Para/ichthodes (302) Samaris (303) Dextral. Dorsal origin above eye. Front dorsal 300. M.AREEYEI.E.A BICOI.ORA'I'.A (von Bonde). [Poecilopsetta hicolorata.] Literature L 14, 19, 96, 643, 695. Plate 10, p. 156. Depth about 2. D 55 60. A 46 49. L.l. 70-75. Attains 7 ins. Known from Natal to Zanzibar in 70-200 fathoms. Genus Poecilopsetta Gunther, genotype Poecilopsetta colorata Gunther. Dextral. Dorsal origin above eyes, front rays not enlarged. Male and female similar. 7 species of deep water of most seas, only one in our area. 301. POECll.OPSETTA N.YrAEENSIS Norman. [Formerly wrongly identified as Limanda heanii Goode.] Literature L 3, 96, 643. Depth about 2L D about 60. A about 55. L.L 70. 1 1 gill-rakers. Brownish. Known from only one specimen 6 ins. long taken in 190 fathoms off Natal. A doubtful species, probably the same as the Japanese Poecilopsetta pi in thus J. & S. Genus Paralichthodes Gilchrist, genotype the single species. Dextral. Dorsal originates on snout. No palatine teeth. A short strong spine before anal fin. L.l. on blind side well developed. Fig. 301. POECILOPSETTA NATALENSIS Norman. After Norman. 156 BONY FISHES— Family BOTH I DAE 302. PARALICH'FHODES ALGOENSIS Gilchrist. Literature L 3, 19, 43, 56, 643. Plate 10, p. 156. Depth about 2i. D 67-74. A 47-54. L.l. 110-125. 19-21 gill-rakers. Attains 20 ins. So far found only from Mossel Bay to Dclagoa Bay, shore to 50 fathoms, not abundant. Genus Samaris Gray, genotype Samaris cristatus Gray. Dextral. Dorsal origin in front of eyes, front rays much elongated. Gill-rakers rudimentary. Pectoral of blind side feeble. L.l. of blind side rudiniontary. 5 small species from the Indo-Paciftc, probably only 2 valid, 1 in our area. 303. SAMARIS CRIST.ATUS Gray. [Samaris ornatus von B., or dc/agoensis von B.] Litcratrirc L 96, 97, 256, 616. 643. Plate 10, p. 156. Depth 2,1-3. D 73-86. A 50-57. L.l. 70-80. Attains 7 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacilic, fairly deep water, from Natal to Delagoa Bay to 30 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family BOIHIDAE FLOUNDERS Eyes on left side. Dorsal fin extends on head to above eye or beyond. Preopercle margin free. Loxvcr jaw mostly prominent. Small or moderate sized fishes of all seas. Numerous A. Pelvics with equal short bases. 1. L.L with dorsal branch at head 2. No dorsal branch of L.l . B. Pelvic of eyed side with longer base. 1. Mouth large, extends behind eyes . 2. Mouth smaller, not to behind eyes. (a) Interorbital narrow, often bony ridge. (i) Teeth on blind side of jaws only . (ii) Teeth on both sides of jaws . (b) Interorbital wider, usually concave. (i) L.L less than 70 . (ii) L.l. more than 70 ... . Genus Pseudorhombus Bleeker, genotype Rhombus polyspilus Blkr. Pelvics with equal short bases, symmetrical. L.L with dorsal branch from head. Numerous Indo-Pacific species, some doubtful, one in our area. genera, 7 in our area. ... Pseudorhombus (-304) Citharoides (305) ... Chascanopsetta (-306) Laeops A rnoglossus (307-309) (3 10-312) . Eugyprosopon (3 1 3—3 1 5) Bothus (3 16—318) 304. PSEUDORHOMBUS ARSIUS (Hamilton). [Pseudorhombus russeHii Gray, or natalensis Glch. or andersoni Glch., or polyspilus Blkr.] Tampar (East Indies). Literature L 3 19 '’S 47 56 328 616 643 Plate 10, p. 156. , , , , , Depth about 2. D 70-80. A 50-60. L.l. 58-80. Teeth fairly strong. Attains 15 ins. A rather variable Indo-Pacific species which extends as far south as Knysna, not uncommon from Natal northwards, usually in fairly shallow water, sometimes in estuaries and taken in drag nets. Good eating. Genus Citharoides Hubbs, genotype the single species. Pelvics with equal short bases, that of eyed side median and in advance of other. L.l. simple, no branch at head. PLATE 10 300. Marleyella hicolorafa, 5 ins. 302. I’ciralicluhodes algoensis, 8 ins. 303. Samaris cristatus, 5 ins. 304. Pseudo- rJiomhiis arsiiis, 10 ins. 320. Zehrias rcgcnii, 5 ins. 321. Heteromycteris capensis, 3 ins. 328. Solea bleekeri, 5 ins. 336. Cynoglossoidcs ccaudutus, 5 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family BOTHIDAE 157 305. CrrHAROIDES MACROLEPIS (Gilchrist). [Arno^lossus or Paracitharus macrolepis. Citharoides macrolepidotus Hubbs.] Literature L 3, 28, 56, 96, 643, 695. Kig. 305. CITHAROIDES MACROLEPIS (Glch.). Actual length 7 ins. Depth about 2;^ D 64 72. A 42-50. L.l. 40 47. 9 1 1 gill-rakers. Brown, speckled. Attains 10 ins. Known from Natal to Delagoa Bay down to 100 fathoms, later found in Japan, probably Indian seas also. Genus Chascanopsetta Alcock, genotype the single species. Pelvic of eyed side with longer base, median. Pectoral of eyed side longer. L.l. well developed on blind side. Mouth large. 306. CHASCANOPSETTA EUGUBRIS Alcock. [Chascanopsetta gilchristi von B., or maculata von B.] Literature L 3, 96, 97, 393, 462, 625, 643. Depth about 3J. D about 120. A about 85. Scales small, L.L about 140. Brownish, sometimes spotted. Attains 1 1 ins. Indo-Pacific in deepish water, in our area from Natal to Delagoa Bay in 100-300 fathoms, not often seen. Fig. 306. CHASCANOPSETTA LUGUBRIS Alcock. Actual length 7 ins. Genus I.acops Gunther, genotype Laeops parviceps Gnthr. Pelvic of eyed side with longer base, median. Pectoral of eyed side larger. L.L on blind side barely visible. Mouth small. Interorbital very narrow. Hardly any teeth on eyed side of jaws. Small fishes of fairly deep water of the Indo-Pacific, about 10 species, 3 in our area, not likely to be seen by any but the expert seeking them. A. 1st 2 dorsal rays separate. 1. Pectoral longer than head . ... ■■■ ••• ••• pectoralis (307) 2. Pectoral not longer than head . . kitharae (308) B. 1st 2 dorsal rays not separate ... ... . . mgromacidatus (309) 307. LAEOPS PECrORALIS (von Bonde). [Lamhdopsetta pectoralis.] Literature L 96, 97, 625, 643. Fig. 307. LAEOPS PECTORALIS (von B.). After von Bonde. 158 BONY FISHES— Family BOTHIDAE Depth about 2J. D about 110. A about 90. L.l. about 105. 7-8 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 8 ins. So far found only from Natal to Delagoa Bay, 150-200 fathoms. Rare. 308. LAEOPS KITHARAE (Smith & Pope). [Lamhdopsetia kil/iarae. Laeops natalensis Norman.] Literature L 96, 468. , ,, j i -mai Depth 2J-3. D about 100. A about 75. L.l. about 100. 5-6 gill-rakers. Brown-yellow, dorsal, anal, and caudal with dusky margins. Attains 6 ins. Known from Japan and Natal in 180-230 fathoms, l^are. 309. LAEOPS NIGROMACULATLS von Bonde. Literature L 96, 97, 625, 643. Fig. 309. LAEOPS NIG RO MACULATVS von Bonde. After von Bonde. Depth 2|. D about 105. A 85. L.l. 100. 6-7 gill-rakers. Brownish with spots. Attains 7 ins Known only from Natal to Delagoa Bay in 100-160 fathoms. Lor full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Arnoglossus Bleeker, genotype Pleuronecles anwgiossus Schn. Pelvic of eyed side with longer base, median. Narrow interorbital. Mouth small, teeth more or less uniform each side of jaws. Numerous species, in almost all oceans, 3 in our area, all small. Unlike most Flatfishes, these have scales that are easily shed, and are known as Scald-Fish in Europe. A. Maxilla to below hind part of lower eye . ... dalRleishi (310) B. Maxilla to below front part of lower eye. 1. L.l. less than 70 ... . . ... capeusis (311) 2. L.l. more than 70 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... micropluludnius (312) 310. 695. ARNOGLOSSUS DALGLEISHI (von Bonde). [Trichopsetta dalp/eishi.] Literature L 96. 643. Fig. 310. ARNOGLOSSUS DALGLEISHI (von B.l. After von Bonde. Depth about 2|-. D about 95. A about 75. L.l. about 70. 9 gill-rakers. Grev. blotches on fins. Found in 30-100 fathoms off Natal to Zanzibar, not often seen. BONY FISHES— Family BOTH/DAE 159 311. ARNOGLOSSUS CAPENSIS Boulenger. Literature L 3, 94, 413, 643, 655. Depth about 2J. D 85-100, front rays slightly elongated. A 70-80. L.l. about 65. 10-13 gill-rakers. Brownish. Attains 7 ins. Known only from Saldanha Bay to Natal down to 60 fathoms. 312. ARNOGLOSSUS YllCROPH'IHALIVIUS (von Bonde). [Laeops microphihalmus.] Literature L 96, 97, 625, 643. Fig. .ti:. ARNOGLOSSUS MICROPHTHALMUS (von B.). After van Bonde. Deptli about 21. D 106. A 84. L.l. about 1 10. 8-9 gill-rakers. Brownish. Only one specimen 5i ins. long from 150 fathoms off Natal. Genus Engyprosopon Gunther, genotype Rhombus mof>kii BIkr. Pelvic of eyed side with longer base, median. Pectoral of eyed side longer. Interorbital fairly to very wide. Mouth small. Less than 70 scales in L.L Rather small Flounders of shore waters of the Indo-Pacific, 3 in our area. Males have wider interorbital and longer pectoral. A. Interorbital more than half eye. 1. Maxilla shorter than eye ... ... ... ... ... valde-rostratus (313) 2. Maxilla longer than eye ... ... ... . . gramlEquama (314) B. Interorbital less than half eye ... ... . ... ... natalensis (315) 313. ENGYPROSOPON VALDE-ROSTRATUS (Alcock). [Flalophrys dimorphus Glch., or ^randisquama Glch. Crossorhomhus dimorphus or valde-rostranis.] Literature L 3, 19, 28, 30, 47, 56, 97, 643. Fig. .113. ENGYPROSOPOS I ALDE-ROSTRATUS (Alcock). .Actual length 4 ins. Male on left. After Gilchrist. Depth about 1,(. D 80-90. A 63-75. L.l. 48-61. 5-7 gill-rakers. Male with wider interorbital and a spine on snout. Brownish, spotted. Attains 6 ins. Indo-Pacific, in our area known from Natal to Delagoa Bay, shore to 30 fathoms, but rarely seen. 314. ENGYPROSOPON GRANDISQUAIVIA (Temminck & Schlegel). [Rhomhoidichthys spiJurus Gnthr, or spiniceps Macleay. Scaeops orhicidaris J. & S., or grandisquama.] Literature L 19, 97, 194, 281, 336. 449, 466, 616, 643. Depth about 2. D 80-90. A 60-68. L.l. 36^5. 5-7 gill-rakers. Male with wider interorbital and a spine on snout. Brownish with spots. Attains 5 ins. Widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific, in our area from Natal to Delagoa Bay to 30 fathoms. Easily confused with No. 313. 160 BONY FISHES— Family SOLEIDAE 315. ENGYPROSOFON NATALENSIS Regan. Literature L 56, 97, 643. Depth about 2. D 85. A 65. L.l. 40. 6 gill-rakers. Interorbital less than half eye, wider in male.s. Spine on snout in males. Brownish, spots on fins. Attains 3 ins. So far found only from Natal to Delagoa Bay to 30 fathoms, rare, probably the juvenile of some known species. Genus Bothus Rafinesque, genotype Bothus nimulo Raf. Pelvic of eyed side with longer base, median. Prcopercle margin free. Pectoral of eyed side longer. Interorbital wide. Scales small, L.l. more than 70. Mouth fairly small. Males usually with wider interorbital and longer pectorals than females. Mainly small fishes, which occur in all warm seas, 3 in our area. A. 6-8 gill-rakers, short and stout. 1. Interorbital greater than eye ... myriaster (316) 2. Interorbital not much greater than eye ... ... ... pantherinus (317) B. 9-11 gill-rakers, slender . numctis (318) 316. BOTHUS MYRIASTER (Temminck & Schlegel). [P/atophrys circularis Rgn., or ova/is Rgn. Bothus ovalis Rgn.] Literature L 3, 192, 485, 643. Depth li-li. D about 90. A about 70. L.l. 95-100. 6-7 short gill-rakers. Grey-brown, spotted. Attains 5 ins. A tropical Indo-Pacific species, the young reach as far south as Knysna, sometimes not uncommon in shallow water on sand, even penetrating estuaries. 317. BOTHUS PANTHERINUS (Ruppell). [Pseudorhomhus or Platophrvs ov Rhotuhoidichthys panthcr- inus.] Literature L 3, 14, 19, 47, 56, 97, 275, 281, 616, 643. Depth about IJ. D 80-95. A about 70. L.l. 80-90. 6-8 short gill-rakers. Brownish, spotted and marbled. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban, rare in our area. 318. BOTHUS M.ANCUS ( Broussonet). [Plalophrys mattcus.] Literature L 19, 21, 147, 281, 616, 643. Depth about 2. D about 100. A about 80. Pectoral of male reaches caudal base. 9-1 1 slender gill-rakers. Brownish, mottled, dark blotches on L.l. Pectoral with faint narrow cross-bars. Attains 16 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo- Pacific, has been found at Durban, rare in our area. Fig. 317. BOTHUS PANTHERINUS (Rupp.)- .After Day. Fig. 316. BOTHUS MYRIASTER (T. & S.). Family SOLEID.AE SOLES Eyes on right side. Dorsal fin extends on head to above eye or beyond. Peropercle edge covered by skin Mostly small fishes found in all but the coldest seas, from the shore to fairly deep water. Many are of importance, ig ly esteemed as food, but numbers have everywhere been seriously depleted by trawling. 10 genera in our area, not at all easy to distinguish in some cases. A. Pectoral fins absent, or if present quite small. 1. Dorsal and anal united with caudal. (a) Scales cycloid {h) Scales ctenoid 2. Dorsal and anal free from caudal. (a) One L.l. on blind side ... (h) 2 L.l. on blind side Coryphaesopia (319) Zehrias (320) Heteromycteris (321) Pardachirus (322) BONY FISHES — Family SOLE! DAE 161 B. Right pectoral well developed. I. Dorsal and anal united with caudal. (a) Pectorals head length {h) Pectorals at least i head length Synaptura (323-324) Aiisiroglossus (325-326) 2. Dorsal and anal free from caudal. (a) First dorsal ray on front of head (A) First dorsal ray on upper head edge. Pef^u.sa (327) (i) Depth 2-2 J. (x) Pectorals about equal Solea (328-329) (y) Blind side pectoral smaller or absent Monochirus (330) Dicologlossa (331) (ii) Depth 3-31 ... Genus Coryphaesopia Chabanaud, genotype Aesopia cornula Kaup. Pectorals rudimentary. Dorsal and anal united with eaudal. First dorsal ray enlarged. Scales cycloid. One species. 319. CORYPHAESOPIA CORNU! A (Kaup). [Synaptura or Aesopia cornula.] Literature L 3 7 30 56, 97, 236, 328, 466, 608, 620. ’ ’ ’ tig. .tiy. CORYPHAESOPIA CORNUTA (Kaup), After Day Depth about 2,)‘. D about 75. A about 65. L.l. 90-100. First dorsal ray swollen and large. Grey to brown. Attains 7 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, mainly in shallow water, has been found from Durban northwards. Genus Zebrias Jordan & Snyder, genotype .Solea zehrina T. & S. Pectorals very small. Dorsal and anal united with caudal. Scales ctenoid. One species in our area. 320. ZEBRI.AS REGANI (Gilchrist). [Synaptura or Aes'opia regani.] Literature L 3, 7, 21, 23, 30 608 620. Plate 10, p. 156. Depth 21. D about 70. A about 60. L.l. 82-90. Attains 7 ins. So far found only in Natal in shallow water. Genus Hetcromyeteris Kaup, genotype the single species. Pectorals hardly visible. Dorsal and anal not united with caudal. L.l. single on both sides. 321. HE I EROMYCl'ERIS C.APENSES Kaup. [.AchiriP) capensis.] Literature L 3, 7, 27, 94, 413. Plate 10, p. 156. Depth about 2i D about 100. A about 70, both free from caudal. L.l. 80-88. Attains 6 ins. Found only in South Africa from Walfish Bay to Natal, in shallow water, juveniles abundant in sandy estuaries, easily found by sifting sand under water at low tide. Genus Pardachirus Gunther, genotype Achirus marmoratus Lacepede. Pectorals absent. Dorsal and anal not united with caudal. A 2nd L.l. along upper profile on blind side. One species. 322. PARDACHIRUS MARMORATUS (Lacepede). Literature L 3, 14, 97, 128, 150, 256, 383. Depth about 21-. D 67. A 53. L.l. 100. Olive-grey, spotted. Attains 10 ins. Rare, found only on the east coast of Africa and at Madagascar, recorded from Bazaruto Island. 12 162 BONY FISHES— Family SOLEIDAE Genus Svnaptura Cantor, genotype Pkuronectes commersoniaims Lac. of equal length. Dorsal and anal united with caudal. Lower lip fringed. One two species in our area, not easily distinguished. A. Eye about 5 in head ... . B. Eye about 7-9 in head Pectorals short but well developed, L.l. each side. In most warm waters, kk’ini (323) nwrginata (324) 323. SYNAPTCRA KLEINl (Bonap). [5v/i- aptwiclithys kleini. So/ea alhoguttata Fwlr. Solea capensis Glch. or melanoptera Glch. Synapturich- thys variolosa Kner.] Literature L 3, 7, 24, 94, 608, 620. Depth 2^3. D 75-90. A 60-70. L.l. 110-130. Eye 4-5 in head. Lips not fully fringed. Brownish with marblings and spots. Attains 15 ins. An Atlantic species which occurs mainly in shallow water, extends to Natal, not abundant in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 324. SYNAPTUR.A M.4RG1NAT.A Boulenger. [Synaptura ciliata Glch. or barnardi Smith.] Sole. long. Literature L 3, 7, 19, 28, 56, 59, 346, 425. Fig. 324. SYSAPTURA MARdSATA BIgr. .After Gilchrist. Depth about 2i. D about 75. A about 60. L.l. 100-130. Dorsal and anal rays fringed, also scales on head and both lips. Brownish, marbled and speckled. Attains 16 ins. Knysna to Dclagoa Bay along the shore, in summer in quite shallow water. In South Africa " spearing ” for soles is carried out mainly in summer, with an implement like a 4-5 pronged pitch-fork, which is jabbed into sand at and below low tide mark. Quite good catches sometimes result, mainly of this species. Genus .Austroglossus Regan, genotype Synaptura pectoralis Kaup. Both pectorals well developed, at least J length of head, right longer. Dorsal and anal united with caudal. One L.l. on each side. Two species, both found nowhere but in our area. A. Right pectoral longer than head... ... ... . . pectoralis (325) B. Right pectoral shorter than head . microlepis (326) 325. AUSTROGLOSSUS PECTOR.ALIS (Kaup). [Synaptura pectoralis.] Sole. Tong. Literature L 3, 7, 27, 56, 94, 236. Plate II, p. 163. Depth about 3J. D about 100. A about 90. Scales very small. L.l. 145-180. Attains 24 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Natal, in 5-30 fathoms in summer, in deeper water in winter. Rightly esteemed as one of the finest table fishes of the world. At one time very abundant, is to-day relatively scarce, but still the most important sole of South Africa. In earlier years the stretch between Port Alfred and Algoa Bay was one of the finest soling grounds of the world. PLATE II 325. Aiisfrofr/ossiii pecloralis, 12 ins. 329. Sok-a fiih-onmrginala. 8 ins. 330. Moiwchirus iimulruicellaliis. 4 ins. 341 . Arelia hi/ineaia. 6 ins. 342. TruHa capensis, 9 ins. 343. Arcliscus nuirlevi, 9 ins. Actual length stated in each case ' BONY FISHES— Family SOLE! DAE 163 326. AUSTROGLOSSUS MICROLEPIS (Bleeker). [Synapiura microlepis.] Sole. Tong. Literature L 3, 7, 94, 259. Depth about 31. D about 95. A about 75. Scales minute, L.l. about 180. Right pectoral head length, and 11 times length of left fin. Colour much as for No. 325 (see F’late 11). Attains over 30 ins. and a weight of 10 lbs. Found only on the west coast of South Africa from the Cape northwards, a tasty sole of commercial importance, but not abundant. Genus Pegusa Gunther, genotype Solea lascaris Risso. Dorsal and anal free from caudal. Dorsal originates far forward, on front of head. Pectorals well and equally developed. A single species. 327. PEGUSA LASCARIS (Risso). Literature L 256, 371, 608, 655. Depth about 31. Eyes well separated. D about 80. A about 65. L.l. 120-150. 8 feeble gill-rakers. Many scales fringed. Brownish, outer l,-.l of pectoral blackish. Attains 14 ins. An Atlantic species found on our west coast, rare in our area. Genus Solea Quensel, genotype Pleuronecles solea Linn. Dorsal and anal free from caudal. Pectorals equally developed. 2 species in our area, easily distinguished by markings. 328. SOl.EA BLEEKERI Boulenger. [Solea lurhynei Glch. and simonensis von B.] Literature L 3, 7, 14, 19, 28, 53, 56, 259, 413, 608, 620. Plate ID, p. 156. Depth about 2]. D about 60-75. A 45-55. L.l. about 100. Pectoral of blind side almost as long as other. Attains 7 ins. A characteristic small sole found mainly in shallow water from the Cape to Delagoa Bay often in estuaries, the young quite abundant on shallow sand banks. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 329. SOLEA FULVOMARGINATA Gilchrist. [Barnarclicluhys fulvomarginata.] Literature L 3, 7, 14, 28. 94, 620. Plate II. p. 163. Depth about 2.1. D 73-80. A 60 65. L.l. about 110. Pectorals equal. Attains 10 ins. Found only from the Cape to Pondoland in fairly shallow water, sometimes near the shore. A beautiful sole, not often seen. Genus Monochirus Rafmesque, genotype Monochirus hispidus Raf. Dorsal and anal free from caudal. Dorsal originates on upper surface of head. Blind side pectoral shorter or absent. Really distinguished by having 34-40 vertebrae, Solea has 47-50. One species in our area. 3.30. MONOCHIRUS QUADRIOCELL.ATUS von Bonde. [Solea quadnocellaia.] Literature L 3, 96. Plate II, p. 163. Depth about 2]. D 62. A 48. L.l. about 100. Attains 4 ins. Found in Natal in 30 fathoms, rare m our area, easily recognised by the markings. Genus Dieologlossa Chabanaud, genotype Solea cimeata Moreau. Dorsal and anal free from caudal. Dorsal originates on upper surface of head. Body relatively elongate. One species. .331. Die OI.OGLOSSA CUNEATA (Moreau). Previously wrongly identified as Solea senegalensis Kaup. Literature L 3, 7, 30, 94, 236, 537, 620. Depth about 3^. D 80-90. A 65-75. L.l. 110-130. Brownish, speckled, end of pectoral blackish. Attains 10 ins. An Atlantic species found on our west coast, rarely south of Walfish Bay. Fig. 331. DICOLOGLOSSA CUSEATA (Mor.). After Gilchrist. 164 BONY FISHES— Family CYNOGLOSSIDAE Family CYNOGLOSSIDAE Eyes on left side. Dorsal originates on head. Preopercle margin beneath skin. Pectorals absent. Dorsal and anal confluent with caudal. Lateral line absent, present or multiple. Fishes of warm waters of all oceans, many in deep water. 7 genera in our area. A. No L.l . B. 2 L.l. on eyed side. 1. Lips distinctly fringed... 2. Lips smooth. (а) No L.l. on blind side ... (б) 1 L.l. on blind side (c) 2 L.l. on blind side C. 3 L.l. on eyed side. 1. Only one nostril on eyed side 2. 2 nostrils on eyed side Symphwus (332-334) Paraphiyusia (335) Cynoglossoides ( 336-338) Cynoylossus ( 339-340) Arelia (341) Tru/la (342) Aretiscus (343) Genus Symphurus Rafinesque, genotype Svnpliurus nigrescens Raf. No lateral line on either side. Eyes small, close together. Left pelvic only present. Several poorly known rather degenerate fishes from deep water of the Indo-Pacific. 3 species in our area, unlikely to be seen by any but the expert seeking them. A. Front dorsal rays separate . varicgatus (332) B. Front dorsal rays not separate. 1. D more than 100 . strictus (333) 2. D not more than 100 . ocellcuii.s (334) 332. SYMPHURUS VARIEG.4TUS (Gilchrist). Aplwristia variegata.] Literature L 3. 7, 27, 94. Depth about 4f. D 93-100. A 88-95. About 125 series of scales, which are ctenoid on both sides. Brownish with darker cross-bars. Attains 3* ins. Only once found olT East London in 400 fathoms. Likely the juvenile of some known species. Fig. 332. SYMPHU/iUS I’ARIEGATUS Glch. AOer Gilchrist. 333. SYMPHURUS STRICTUS Gilbert. Literature L 7, 458, 695. Depth about 4. DUO. A 100. L.l. about 130. Eyes close together, one row of scales between. Mouth reaches below middle of lower eye. Scales ctenoid on both sides. Attains 6 ins. Known from the eastern Pacihc, a single specimen taken in 260 fathoms off Delagoa Bay. 334. SYMPHURUS OCELL.ATUS von Bonde. [Symphun/s regani VV. & de B.] Literature L 7, 96, 616. Fig. 334. SYMPHURUS OCELLATUS v. B. After von Bonde. Mouth rlLherbei? Ti' together, one row of scales between. oThind e^f Sortri A f on both sides. Attains 5 ins. Brownish, darker area specimen taken in 30oTalom; off Natar" ^ side ^lLToSTh''" Wind side. Lips of eyed side with fringed tentacles. Several species from the Indo-Pacific, one in our area. BONY FISHES -Family CYNOGLOSSIDAE 165 335. PARAPLAGUSIA BIEINEATA (Bleeker). [Plagusia or Paraplagusia marmorata Blkr., or rohinsoni Rgn.] Literature L 3, 7, 30, 55, 56, 150, 281, 328, 616. Fig. 335. I’ARAPLACU.SIA ll/LINEATA (Blkr.). Actual length 7 ins. Depth about 4. D 95-120. A 75-90. L.l. 90-110. 16-19 scales between the 2 L.I. Grey to brown, marbled, .\ttains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacilic, has been found as far south as Natal, rather shallow water. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Cynoglossoidcs nov., genotype C ynof’lossus ecaudatus Glch. 2 lateral lines on eyed side, none on blind side. Both lips smooth. Indo-Pacific, 3 species in our area. A. 10 scales between 2 L.l. ... ... ... ... ... ... . ... ecaudatus (336) B. 13 14 scales between 2 L.l. ... ... ... ... . . . ... gilchristi (337) C. 18-20 scales between 2 L.l. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... durhanensis (338) 336. CYNOGLO.SSOIDES ECAUDATUS (Gilchrist). [C ynogbssus or Areliscus ecaudatus, or natalensis von B.] Literature L 3, 7, 30, 47, 56, 94, 96. Plate 10, p. 156. Depth about 3.1. D 100 106. A about 85. L.l. 63-67. 10 scales between L.l. Brownish. Attains 6 ins. So far found only off Natal and Zululand in 30 fathoms. 337. CYNOGI.OSSOIDES GII.CHRISTI (Regan). [Cynoglossus gilchristi.] Literature L 3, 7, 27, 47, 56, 96, 97. Depth about 4,1. D 105-110. A 82. L.l. 75-80. 13-14 scales between L. lines. Corner of mouth below middle of lower eye, nearer front than hind margin of head. Brownish, speckled, fins streaked, a central blotch on caudal. Attains 6 ins. Pound only in South Africa from Nata| to Delagoa Bay down to 30 fathoms, but may well occur elsewhere in the Indian Ocean also. Fig. 337. CY\OGLOSSOIDES GlLCH/tlSTI (Rgn.}. After Gilchrist. 338. CYNOGLO.SSOIDES DURB.ANENSIS (Regan). [Cynoglotisus durhanensis.] Literature L 3. Depth about 31. D 101-105. A about 80. L.l. about 115. 18-20 scales between the L. lines. Corner of mouth below middle of lower eye, nearer front than hind margin of head. Attains 8 ins. So far taken only from Natal to Delagoa Bay, but will probably be found elsewhere in the Indian Ocean also. Genus Cynoglossus Hamilton, genotype Cynoglossus lingua Ham. Two L. lines on eyed side, one on blind side. Both lips smooth. In warm waters of all oceans, 2 species in our area. A. Scales cycloid on blind side ... ... ... . ... lingua (339) B. Scales ctenoid on both sides . . ... lida (340) 166 BONY FISHES— Family SYNGNATHIDAE 339. CYNOGEOSSUS LINGUA (Hamilton-Buchanan). [Cynoi!:lossus hwueri von B.] Literature L 3, 7, 97, 256, 281, 328, 616. Depth about 4|, probably deeper in young. D 125-145. A about 100. L.l. about 90. 12-13 scales between L. lines. Scales feebly ctenoid on eyed, cycloid on blind side. Brownish, mottled. Attains 16 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo- Pacific, shallow water, even in estuaries, has been found in Delagoa Bay. 340. CYNOGLOSSUS LIDA (Blceker). [Pkigusia Ik/ci.] Literature L 7, 14, 19, 56, 206, 281, 328, 616. Much like No. 339, less elongate, depth about 4|. D about 105. A about 80. L.l. about 90. 13 14 scales between L. lines. Scales ctenoid on both sides. Brownish. Attains 8 ins. An East Indian species found in fairly shallow water from Durban to Delagoa Bay, not common in our area. Genus .Arelia Kaup, genotype Plcuroncctes arc! Bl.-Schn. 2 L. lines on each side. Lips smooth. Indo- Pacific, few species, one in our area. 341. .ARELL4 BILINE.AT.A (Lacepede). [Achirus or Cynoglossus hilincatus. C ynoylossus or Ardia attcnuaui Glch.] Literature L 3, 7, 14, 19, 27, 47, 56, 97, 281, 616. Plate 11, p. 163. Depth about 4. D 100-118. A 85-100. L.l. 84-95. 12-14 scales between the L. lines. Brown. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific, known from Durban northwards, not uncommon. Genus Trulla Kaup, genotype Pkiyusia truHa Cantor. 3 L. lines on eyed side, none on blind side. Only one nostril on eyed side, before lower eye. Lips smooth. .An Indo-Pacific genus with only one species in our area. 342. TRULL.A C.APENSIS Kaup. [ArePiscus or TruHa microplithalmus von B.] Sand Sole. Literature L 3, 94, 96, 97, 209, 236. 413. Plate 11. p. 163. Depth about 3|. D 110-130. A 85-110. L.l. 90-115. A variable species. Attains 18 ins. Found throughout our region, possibly identical with some other known species. Genus Areliscus Jordan & Starks, genotype Solea Joyneri Gnthr. 3 L. lines on eyed side, none on blind side. 2 nostrils on eyed side. Lips smooth. Lew species, one in our area. 343. ARELISCUS M.ARl.EA'l (Regan). [TruHa marleyi.] Literature L 3. 7, 14. 21, 97, 572. Plate II. p. 163. Depth 4. D 130. A 100-110. L.l. about 130. .About 20 scales between upper and mid, and 25 26 mid to lower L. lines. Ctenoid scales both sides. Brownish. .Attains 15 ins. Known only from Durban to Delagoa Bay in 60-150 fathoms, not uncommon. ORDER LOPHOBR.ANCHII (344-359) SEA-HORSES: PIPE-EISHES Curious specialised fishes characterised e.xternally by the small mouth at the end of a tube-like snout, and by fairly stout bony rings forming a firm covering. The gills are lobed. All are small sluggish fishes of weedy areas of all warm seas, and depend for survival mainly on concealment. One family. Family SA NGN ATHIDAE Fairly to very elongate body with bony rings. Fins small. Caudal sometimes absent and if present small. Pelvics absent. These rather degenerate fishes show parental care, and possibly from some disbelief in the ability of the female, it is the male who carries out this duty. Once the eggs are laid he attaches them to his belly either by a sticky exudate or else takes them into a special pouch there. Identification of species in certain genera is difficult and necessitates careful study of structural details which is not easy for the amateur. By " Tail " in this account is meant that part of the body behind the vent. 6 genera in our area. BONY FISHES— Family SYNGNATH/DAE 167 A. B. Brood pouch on tail. 1. No caudal fin . 2. Caudal fin present (small). (a) Vent below front of dorsal {b) Vent below middle of dorsal ... Brood pouch below belly. 1. No caudal fin . 2. Caudal fin present (small). (а) Less than 60 rays in dorsal ... (б) More than 60 rays in dorsal ... Hippocampus (344-348) Syngnathus (349-355) Yozia (356) Syngnathoides (357) Microphis (358) Belonichthys (359) Genus Flippoeampus Rafinesque, genotype Syngnathus hippocampus Linn. Neck curved, head at about right angle to body. Dorsal the largest fin, pectorals and anal small. No caudal or pelvic fins. These curious true fishes swim upright and move by vibrating the fins, mainly the dorsal. They spend much time anchored by the end of the tail to marine growth, and feed on minute organisms which they inspect solemnly and then suddenly suck in through the tiny mouth at the end of the tubular snout. They do well and even breed freely in aquaria. Being eagerly sought as food by predatory fishes such as the Blacktail (No. 713), they are adepts at concealment on which they depend mainly for survival. Some tropical forms bear filaments all over the body and exactly resemble a piece of .seaweed. A number of species in all warm seas, 5 in our area. The synonymy is voluminous and involved and not worth repetition here. A. Body rings with long spines . Iiystrix (344) B. Body rings not strongly spiny. I. 7 3. No coronet . A low coronet. {a) 15 16 rays in pectoral {h) 17-18 rays in pectoral A high coronet... capensis (345) novae-hol/andae (346) kuda (347) Camelopardalis (348) 344. HIRF’OCAMPUS HYS'l RIX Kaup. Seahorse. Seeperd. Literature L 21, 226, 328, 499, 579, 613. D 17-19. A 4. 1’ 17 18. Rings, trunk II, tail 33-34. Elevated spiny coronet, spines also on body. Dorsal on 2+1-2 rings. Brown. Attains 6 ins. An Indo-Pacific species, rare in our area, reaches Durban. 345. IIIPPOC.-WIPUS CAPENSI.S Boulenger. .Seahorse. Seeperd. Literature L 67, 93, 425. Plate 12, p. 170. D 16-19. A 4. P 15-17. Rings, trunk 10-11, tail 32-36. Dorsal on 2-3 -1 rings. Attains 4', ins. So far found only in the Knysna estuary, an almost incredibly restricted habitat, but this is paralleled by No. 988. 346. HIPPOC'.AMPL'.S NOV.\E-MOLL.\NI).\E Steindachner. Seahorse. Seeperd. Literature L 3, 96, 272, 576, 577. D 16 17. P 15-16. Rings, trunk II, tail 32-36. 3 • I below dorsal. Attains 4 ins. A South Pacific species found off Natal in 25 fathoms. 347. HIPPOC.AMPUS KL DA Bleeker. [Hippocampus polytaenia Blkr., or nalalensis von B.] Seahorse. Seeperd. Literature L 3, 19, 21, 205, 217, 296, 328, 527, 579, 580, D 15-18. A 4. P 17-18. Rings, trunk 11, tail 33-37. Dorsal on 2 + 2 rings. One of the largest, attains 12 ins. Probably the commonest, most widely distributed species of the Indo-Pacific, not at all rare in our area from Mossel Bay eastwards. 348. HIPPOCAIVIPUS CA.MELOPARDALIS Bianconi. [Hippocampus suh- coron.] Seahorse. Seeperd. Literature L 3, 220, 275, 296. Plate 12, p. 1 70. D 18. P 17. Rings, trunk 11, tail 34-36. Dorsal on 2 t 2. Attains 4 ins. Peculiar to the east coast of Africa, has been found no further south than Durban, rare in our area. Fig. 347. HIPPOCAMPUS KUDA Blkr. Actual length 4 ins. 168 BONY FISHES— Family SYNGNATH/DAE Genus Syngnathus Linnaeus, genotype Syngnatims acus Linn. Elongate sub-angular body with bony rings. Small caudal present. Brood pouch on tail. Vent below front of dorsal. Feeble specialised fishes living in w-eeds which they resemble. The head is more or less in the line of the body. On the trunk there are 3 fine ridges on each side and one median below, on the tail there are 2 on each side and none below. These are here termed Top, Middle, Lower and Ventral and are abbreviated as follows : T.T. Trunk, top. T.M. Trunk, middle. T.L.' Trunk, lower, and T.V. Trunk, ventral. C.T. Caudal, top, and C.L. Caudal, lower, as shown m Fig. L. The manner in which the two systems run into one another is important in diagnosis, but requires careful study to understand and is difficult for any but the expert. In this genus (Syngnathus Linn.), T.L. and C.L. arc continuous. Numerous species in all warm seas, 7 in our area. tU vent '■■.TL-'" Fig. 1.. Showing ridges on S Y.\(j A /'H US Linn. A. More than 34 dorsal rays. 1. Plates end in spine . 2. Plates not with spine . B. Less than 34 dorsal rays. 1. 13 trunk rings . 2. 14-18 trunk rings. («) C.T., or C.L., continuous with T.M. (i) 14-16 trunk rings . (ii) 17 trunk rings (h) C.T. breaks with T.M. below dorsal 3. 19 trunk rings ... phh’gon (349) acus (350) cyanospHus (351) spicifer (352) pciagicus (353) fascia t us (354) temmincki (355) 349. SYNGNATHUS PHLEGON Risso. Pipefish. Literature L 3, 93, 148, 245, 296. D 40^2. Rings, trunk 19, tail 49-50. Plates end in a spine. Brownish. An Atlantic species recorded from “ Cape Seas ”, but it is doubtful if it really occurs here, certainly rare in our area. 350. SYNGNATHUS .ACUS Linnaeus. Pipefish. Culevra (Portuguese). Literature L 3, 93, 105. 226, 383, 414, 579, 655. Plate 12, p. 170. D 35^2. P 13-14. Dorsal on 1 trunk and 8-9 tail rings. Rings, trunk 16-21, tail 38-44. Brood pouch over 20-22 rings. Plates without spine. Colour variable according to that of sheltering weed, often brilliant green iridescence. Attains 15 ins. In all warm seas, by far the most common species in our area from the Cape to Delagoa Bay. abundant in Sea-grass (Zostera) in estuaries. 351. SYNGNATHUS CYANOSPILUS Bleeker. [Syngnathus mossamhicus Peters.] Pipefish. Literature L 3, 217, 288, 296, 328, 538, 579. Plate 102, p. 430. Head and snout notably short. D 21-25. P 12-16. Dorsal on 1 trunk and 4-5 tail rings. Rings, trunk 13, tail 32-36. T.V. strong. Brood pouch on 12-15 rings. Brown, darker across ring joints, but the young are pale, almost colourless. Attains 6 ins. An Indo-Pacific species, first found in Moza'mbique in 1868, only recently found to be fairly common from Xora mouth northwards, among weeds. 352. SYNGNATHUS SPICIFER Ruppell. Pipefish. Literature L 3, 19, 1 77 ■»'’6 "’96 3'’8 499 538 579 Plate 102, p. 430. . . D 25-31. P 14-18. Dorsal on 6-7 tail rings. Rings, trunk 14-16, tail 37-42. T.V. strong. Brood pouch on 15-21 rings. Brown, belly with cross-bars. Attains 6 ins. An Indo-Pacific species known as far south as Natal, not uncommon in our area, favours muddy pools in estuaries. 353. SYNGNATHUS PELAGICUS Linnaeus. Pipefish. Literature L 3, 93, 104, 226, 296, 407 579 655 D 28-33. Dorsal on 1 trunk and 9 tail rings. Rings, trunk 17, tail 29-35. Brown, belly uniform or barred. Dark streak on snout before eye. Oblique bars on dorsal. Attains 6 ins. In all warm seas, recorded from our shores in 1870, not seen since, certainly uncommon here. 169 BONY FISHES — Family SYNGNATHI DAE 296/"*^, Pipefish. Literature L 3, 155, 177, '^‘"g.Vrunk 15-18, tail 33-37. Dorsal on 1 trunk and 5-6 tail rings. Brood pouch on I U- 18 rings. Grey-green, with dark cross-bands or blotches. Throat barred or mottled. Attains 7 ins An Indo-Pacific species recorded from our tropical east coast, but rarely seen here. 355. SYNGNATHUS TEMMINCKI Kaup. Pipefish. Literature L 3, 93, 226, 245 296 D .31, starts on last body ring. Ring.s, trunk 19, tail 37. Yellow brown, speckled. A doubtful species recorded many years ago from the Cape. Probably not different from No. 350, dorsal count may be wrong. Genus Yozia Jordan & Snyder, genotype Yozia hicoarclata BIkr. Elongate body with bony rings Small caudal. Brood pouch on tail. Vent below middle of dorsal. T.L. and C.L. discontinuous below dorsal’ Much like the preceding genus. Indo-Pacific, one species in our area. 356. YOZIA BICOARCTATA (Bleeker). [Syngnathus hicoarclata or zanziharensis Gnthr. Yozia waka- nowae J. & S.] Pipefish. Literature L 3, 19, 47, 230, 275, 430, 538, 579. Fig, 356. YOZIA HKOARCTATA (Bikr.). Actual length 12 ins. D 27-31. Dorsal on 3 trunk and 3-4 tail rings. Rings, trunk 21-22, tail 59-65. Brood pouch on IC-19 rings. Swelling midway on body at chest. Brown, spots on head and body. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Durban, fairly common in and about Delagoa Bay. Cienus Syngnathoides Bleeker, genotype the single species. Easily recognisable by the short stout body. The eggs are not in a pouch but in a glutinous mass on the belly. No caudal. 357. S\ N(fNA I IIOIDE.S BIACL LEAICS (Bleeker). [Gastrotokeus hiaculeatus.] Pipefish. Literature L 3, 117, 328. 538, 579, 580. tig. .157. SYSCNATHOIDES HIACULEATUS (BIkr.). .4ctual length 7 ins. D 37-50. P 20-23. Donsal on 1-2 trunk and 8-10 tail rings. Rings, trunk 15-17, tail 40-54. Skinny flaps on body and head, sometimes a pair of branched barbels at chin. Colour dark, variably brown or green, spotted. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, easily recognisable. Genus .Microphis Kaup, genotype Syngnathus deokhata Ham. Fairly slender body. Eggs on belly in glutinous skinny mass. Caudal distinct. Several species of tropical waters, one in our area. 170 BONY FISHES— Family AULOSTOM/DAE 358. MICROPHIS BRACHYIJRUS (Bleeker). [Doryrhampliiis or Doryichthys hradiyufus.] Pipefish. Literature L 63, 226, 296, 328, 527, 579. 358 Fig. 358. MICROPHIS BRACHYURUS (Bleeker). AeUial length 6 ins. D 36-48. Dorsal on 1-3 trunk and 6-9 tail rings. P 18-23. Rings, trunk 19-22, tail 20-24. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacifie, has been found at Durban, rare in our area. For full information about any fish turn baek to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Belonichthys Peters, genotype the single species. Brood pouch on belly, formed of' bony plates. Caudal fin present. Dorsal elongate. Found mainly in tidal rivers. 359. BELONICHTHYS FLLA'IATILIS (Peters). [Syiig/iathiis fliiviarilis.] Pipefish. Litem turc L 3, 207, 289, 538, 545, 579. Fig. 359. BELONICHTHYS FLUITATILIS (Peters). After Peters. D 64-70. Dorsal on 11-12 trunk and 4-5 tail rings. P 17-20. Rings, trunk 19-20, and 19-26 tail. Brown, spotted, a streak each side of head. Attains 8 ins. An Indo-Paeific species fremienting rivers, has been found in Mozambique and in the fresh water of the upper reaches of the Zambesi. ORDER AULOSTOMI (360-370) Produced tube-like snout with small mouth at end. Dorsal spines usually present. Quaint fishes of warm waters, mostly specialised, 5 families, all in our area, easily distinguished. Family AULOSTOMIDAE Elongate compressed body with minute scales. A group of separate dorsal spines present. A barbel below chin. Only one genus, Aulostomus Lacepede, genotype Fistularia chinensis Linnaeus, p-ew species of tropical seas, one on the east of Africa in our region. 360. AULOSTOMUS V'ALENTINI (Bleeker). Literature L 3, 212, 248, 461, 579. Fig. 360. AULOSTOMUS VALENTINI (BIkr.). After Gunther. Alt ^ ^ No gill-rakers. Colour variable, rather colourful Attains 20 ms. This unmistakable curious fish is widespread in warm shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific and has been recorded from Mozambique. «w6ii ■HW&M PLATE 12 345. Hippocampus capcnsis. 3 ins. 34K. Hippocampus Camelopardalis, S ins. 350. Scnguai/ms acus. 1 2 ins. ^61 laria petimhu IS ins. 366. Nowpogon macrosokm, 9 ms. 369. Aeoltscus punctukUus 5 ms. 370. Soknostomus cvauoplerus. 3 ins. 371. I>cf;asus dracoiiis. 3 ins. Actual length stated m each case. BONY FISHES— Families FISTULA RH DAE and M ACRORH AMPHOSI DAE 171 Family FISTULARIIDAE FLUTE MOUTHS: CORNET FISH Elongate fleshy depressed body, wider than deep, without scales, but with bony plates beneath the skin in parts. Mid-caudal rays filamentous. A single genus Fistularia Linnaeus, genotype Fistularia tahacaria Linn. 2 species in the Indo-Pacific, both in our area, unmistakable. A. Naked. No scales midway on back . petimha (361) B. Body rough. Narrow scales down back before and behind dorsal . villosa (362) 361. FISTULARIA PETIMBA Lacepede. [Fistularia depressa Gnthr.] Flute .Mouth. Literature L 3, 14, 21, 47, 130, 328, 336, 461, 527, 579. Plate 12, p. 170. Body rather depressed. Interorbital flat. D 14-17. A 14-16. A backwardly directed spine each side at base of tail. A widespread Indo-Pacific species which grows to be 5 ft. long in the tropics. Reaches as far south as Mossel Bay, not at all uncommon, swims head downwards, and roots in mud and among weeds with the long snout seeking food. The flesh is good eating. 362. FISTUL.ARIA VILLOSA Klunzinger. [Fistularia serrata Cuv.] Flute .Mouth. Literature L 4, 14, 297, 461, 579, 655. Body not much depressed. D 13 15. A 13 15. Interorbital concave, ridges on head strongly serrate. Attains 5 ft. Found in all tropical waters, extends as far south as Mossel Bay. Colour and habits as for No. 361. Family MACRORHA.MPHOSIDAE SNIPE FISHES: IRUMPET FISHES Compressed body with scales, or merely bristle-like roughness. Typical long snout. Second spine of 1st dorsal long and strong. Some bony plates on the side of the back. Easily recognised small fishes of deepish water, 4 genera, 3 in our area. A. Depth about 4. Scales distinct ... . ... ... ... Macrorhampbosus (363-364) B. Depth 12. Skin rough. 1. L.l. absent . Centriscops (365) 2. L.l. present . Notopogon (366-368) Genus Macrorhamphosus Lacepede, genotype Ba/istes scolopax Linn. Fairly elongate body with small but distinct scales. A few species of moderately deep water of all oceans, only 2 in our waters, Macrorhamphosus velitaris Pallas having earlier been erroneously recorded from our area. A. 2nd dorsal spine not reaching caudal ... ... ... . ... gracilis (363) B. 2nd dorsal spine reaches caudal ... ... .. . . ■■ •.■ scolopax (364) 363. MACRORHA.MPHOSUS (iRACILIS (Lowe). [Centriscus Japonicus Gnthr.] Literature L 3, 174, 248, 278, 535, 579, 655, 674. Fig. 363. MACRORHAMPHOSUS GRACILIS (Lowe). Actual length 4 ins. 172 BONY FISHES -Family CENTRISCIDAE Depth about 4. D IV-VIH- 1 1-13. A 18-19. Dorsal inserted nearer hind margin of head than caudal base. Silvery. Attains 6 ins. In all warm seas down to 100 fathoms, in our area not uncommonly thrown ashore. 364. .MACRORHAMPHOSUS SCOEOPAX (Linnaeus). [Macrorhamphosus sagifue .1. & S.] Literature L 3, 443, 503, 535, 674. Depth 3.1-4. D V-VllI ■ 11-13. A 18-20. Dorsal inserted nearer caudal base than liind margin of head. 2nd dorsal spine long and strong, laid back reaches beyond caudal base. Pink or red. Attains 8 ins. In all warm seas down to 100 fathoms, rare in our area, looks much like No. 363. Genus Centriscops Gill, genotype Ccntriscus hwnerosus Rich. Body deep with no distinct scales. 2nd dorsal spine much enlarged. No bristles on nape. No L.l. A few fishes of deep water of colder southern seas, only one in our area. 365. CENTRISCOPS OBLIQUES Waite. Literature L 503, 534, 535, 674. D Vl-Vll 16-19. A 16-21. Snout about II times rest of head. Orange above, silvery below, fins colourless. Attains 8 ins. An Australian species found off the Cape. Specimens wanted. Genus Notopogoii Regan, genotype Notopogou sclioleli Rgn. Body rather deep with rough skin, but no distinct scales. 2nd dorsal spine much enlarged. Some species with a patch of bristles on the nape. L.l. present. Fishes of fairly deep water of colder seas, 3 in our area, not often seen. A. No bristles on nape. B. Bristles on nape 1. Bristles longer than eye 2. Bristles shorter than eye Hg. 365, CEMRISCORS OliL/QUUS Waite, ,'\rter Mohf, macrosolcn (366) . ■■ IcnuuHlezianiis (367) nilici (368) 366. NOTOPOGON MACROSOLEN Barnard. Literature L 2, 3, 674, Plate 12, p. 1 70. D VII 15-16. A 18-19. Snout longer than twice rest of head. Attains 12 ins. So far found only from the Cape to Saldanha Bay in 100-200 fathoms. 367. NOTOPOGON FERN.ANDEZLANUS ( Deifin). [Centriscops humcrosiis McCull. Motopagon xenosoma Rgn. or schote/i Rgn. or nata/ensis Glch.] Literature L 3. 39. 45, 502, 535, 674. A patch of fairly long bristles on nape, snout 1|-1 J times rest of head. DVII- 15-16. A 17-18. Reddish. Attains 7 ins. An Indo-Pacific species of deep water known from Algoa Bay to Natal to 200 fathoms. 368. NOTOPOGON LILLIEI Regan. Literature L 3, 14, 535, 536, 674. A patch of very short bristles on the nape, snout about twice length of rest of head. O VII 14-16. A 17-19. Rosy. Attains 8 ins. An Australian species of not very deep water recorded from Natal, obviously rare in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family CENTRISCIDAE Elongate blade-like body covered by bony or horny plates which are expansions from the vertebral column, sharp edge below. The 1st dorsal spine is at the hind end of the body, while most of the dorsal, and the caudal fin, are on the lower surface. 2 genera of the Indo-Pacific, one in our area, Aeoliscus Jordan & Starks genotype Amphisile strigata Gnthr.. in which the spine at the tail end is movable. Fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific, one in our area, peculiar to East Africa. BONY FISHES— Families SOLENOSTOM ATI DAE and PEGASIDAE 173 369. AEOLISCUS PUNCTULATUS (Bianconi). Razorfish. Literature L 3, 19, 55, 220, 248, 674. Plate 12, p. 170, and Frontispiece. An unmistakable species which appears to be confined to the east coast of Africa, has been found as far south as Algoa Bay. Attains 6 ins. These small fishes live near reefs and swim in shoals, head up. (See Frontispiece.) They are surprisingly agile and difficult to capture, even with a scoop net. Quite abundant in and about Dclagoa Bay. Family SOLENOSTOMATIDAE Compressed rather knobbly body with large fins, the pel vies being below the 1st dorsal. The female in this family has a brood pouch on the belly formed by the pelvics, in which the eggs are fastened to the skin by filaments. Only one genus, Solenostomus Lacepede, genotype Fistularia paradoxa Pallas, with several species of the tropical Indo-Pacific, one in our area. 370. SOLENOSTOIMUS CYANOF’TERUS Bleeker. Literature L 3, 217, 275, 461, 527, 579, 580. Plate 12. p. 170. D Y ; 18-20, spines feeble. A 16-19. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in the warmer water of East Africa, once as far south as East London. This feeble rather fragile creature lives mainly among weeds, in which it finds perfect concealment, but little is known of its habits. ORDER HYPOSTOMIDES (371-372) A few small queer degenerate fishes of one family from the tropical Indo-Pacific. They are wholly encased in bony rings and the tiny mouth is below a long flattened rostrum. Not uncommon in the Far East, they are dried and sold widely among inland Eastern races as charms, and generally as curios. Little is known about the hab ts of these curious fishes, but observers have stated that they skim along the surface of tropical waters with the pectorals extended. Eamily PECiASIDAE Armoured body with bony rings, tail similar but flexible. Pelvics of 2-3 rays. Pectorals enlarged. Hardly recognisable as fishes. A few ill-defined genera, only one accepted here, Pegasus Linnaeus, genotype Pegasus volilans Linnaeus, with a few species, 2 in our area. . o , • . draconis (371) A. 8 tail rings . I) IT . I . natans (ill) B. 1 2 tail rings . 371. PEGASUS DRACONIS Linnaeus. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 110, 296, 328, 613. Plate 12, p. 170. D 5. A 5. P 10-12. V 2. Body of 3 rings. 2 deep grooves on the neck. Some spines on sides of tail. 8 tail rings, 7 behind vent. Attains 4 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, rare in our area. Fig. 372. PEGASVS HATANS Linn. Actual length 3 ins. 13 174 BONY FISHES — Families AMMODYTIDAE, TRfCHONOTI DAE and CRE££)JiOAE- D 5. A 5. P 11. V 3. Body of 3 rings. No grooves at neck. 12 tail rings. A fine spine at each end of each plate on hinder part of tail. Brownish, sometimes spotted, fins with darker spots. Attains 7 ms. Tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay, rare in our area, specimens wanted. ORDER TRACHINOIDEA (373-375) Elongate rather eel-like, usually scaly body, scarcely compre.ssed. Rather degenerate small fishes which shelter by burrowing in sand. Some are poorly known and need more complete investigation. 3 families in our area. A. Lateral line high up . Ammadytidae (373) B. Lateral line on middle of side ... ... . ••• Trichonotidac (374) C. Lateral line low down ... ... ... . . Creediidue (375) Family AMMODYTIDAE SANDEELS Small fishes with elongate cylindrical body, wholly or partly scaly, sometimes naked. Large mouth. Dorsal along most of back, consists of soft rays only. Caudal forked. These curious fishes occur in sandy areas of most colder seas, and are able to burrow rapidly head first. They are excellent bait and good eating. Not related to the true eels, the name refers to the elongate body. Only one genus in our area, Ammodytes Artedi, genotype Ammodytes tobianus Linn. Lateral line high up, pores above and below. No teeth. I’elvics absent. A single species in our area. 373. AMMODYTES CAPENSIS Barnard. Sanded. Literature L 4. Plate 13, p. 177. Depth about 12. D 49-51. A 24-26. 46-48 pores above lateral line canal. Hind fifth of body scaly. Attains 9 ins. Found only in South Africa, chiefly from Walfish Bay to the Cape, also at Knysna and Delagoa, but little is known about our species. Family TRICHONOTIDAE Elongate body with a dorsal fin along most of the back, a few anterior spiniform rays filamentous, no clear division between spines and rays. Mouth large, teeth feeble. Peculiar small Indo-Pacific fishes able to burrow easily, by day remain mostly buried in sand, and are nowhere plentiful. 2 genera known, only one with one species in South Africa, genus Taeniolabrus Stndnr., genotype Taeniolahrus fdamentosus Stndnr. 374. T.AENTOLABRUS .MARLEYI Smith. Literature L 70. Plate 13, p. 177. Depth 12. D Ill- 1 41-44. A I 36-39. Spines flexible, filamentous. Inner pelvic ray filamentous. All filaments shorter in females. L.l. 57. Tr. 4 5. 21 gill-rakers. Lower jaw projects. Largest 7 ins. Found from Durban to Delagoa Bay, rare, specimens wanted. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family CREEDllDAE Elongate cylindrical body with fairly large scales. Eyes close together. Snout conical, upper jaw projects over lower. Fine teeth in lower jaw, none in upper. Lateral line low down. No spines in dorsal or anal A few small rather degenerate fishes of the Indo-Pacific, not well known. In our area one genus, Apodocreedia de Beaufort, genotype the single species, with trilobate lateral line scales. BONY FISHES— Family CH AMPSO DONT! DAE 175 375. APODOCREEDIA VANDERHORSTI cle Beaufort. Fig. 375. APODOCREEDIA VANDERHORSTI de B. Actual length 4 ins. Depth about II. D 34-37. A 28-31. L.l. about 60. Tr. 5 I. No gill-rakers. Silvery white. Attains 4 ins. So far known only from numerous specimens from Inhaca Island, Delagoa Bay. living in intertidal sand. ORDER PERCOMORPHI (376-745) PERCH-EIKE FISHES The great majority of living fishes both freshwater and marine fall here. It is difficult to express in any relatively brief manner the characters which distinguish this vast assemblage from other fishes, and it has proved almost hopeless to prepare a relatively simple workable key to the families of this Order. There are in existence keys of deceptive simplicity which are of use only to those whose knowledge is already so wide that they arc fully aware of the inconsistencies and overlapping characters which baffle the beginner. It is easy enough to identify fishes of peculiar shape, such as Eels or Seahorses, but the beginner finds normal fishes of this Order the most difficult. It was for that reason that the Main Key (p. 465) was originally designed. By its aid even the beginner may track any Percomorph fish in a few moments. 65 families of this order in our seas. Family CHA.MPSODON TIDAE Elongate cylindrical body with small rough scales. Mouth large, with long slender teeth, teeth also on palate. Lateral line double, with branches above and below. 2 dorsal fins, spines feeble. Small carnivorous fishes of fairly deep water of the Indo-Pacific, only one genus, Champsodon Gunther, genotype Champsodon Yora.x Gnthr., with one species in our area. 376. CHAMPSODON CAPENSIS Regan. Literature L 4, 39, 45, 47, 485, 695. Depth about 5. D V ; I 19-21. A 1 16-18, spine feeble. 10-11 gill-rakers. Each pore on side branches of L.l. with a small papilla. Transverse naked areas of skin all over body as shown in figure. Note the spine on the preopercle, which can easily be found in the fish. Mainly silvery. Attains 4 ins. Found only in South .Africa from the Cape to Natal down to 250 fathoms, occurs in great shoals, evidently rises to the surface at nights, and is quite commonly cast ashore. During storms sometimes numbers may be found still alive on the beach in the early morning. 176 BONY FISHES-Families CHIASMODONTIDAE and URANOSCOPIDae Family CHIASMODONTIDAE 377. CHIASMODON MGER John¬ son. Literature L 4, 49, 258, 394, 419, 420, 462, 655. Depth about 4. D X ; I 28. A 27-29. No scales. Black. Attains 7 ins. Occurs from 300-1,500 fathoms in the Atlantic, has once been found at 1,500 fathoms off the Cape. With wide jaws and distensible belly these rather horrible small fishes can swallow Elongate body, naked or with fine rough scales. Mouth large with long teeth, some on palatine, none on vomer. Belly distensible. 2 dorsal fins. No gill-rakers. Small carnivorous fishes of deep water of most oceans. Several genera, the type genus, Chiasmodon Johnson, genotype Chiasmodon ni^er Jhnsn., in our area, with one species here, several others known. others larger than themselves, as shown fig. 377. CHI ASMO DOS NICER Johns. After Alcock, and showing a specimen, found dead on the surface, containing a fish larger than itself (after Goode & Bean). For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also Family HRANOSCOPIDAE PUFFERFISH Rather long body with thick skin, usually with rough scales, sometimes naked. Head bony and heavy, eyes dorsal. Mouth large, cleft almost vertical, teeth small, on palate also. Carnivorous fishes living on the bottom, mostly in deepish water, which bury themselves in mud or sand, with only the eyes and mouth showing. In the lower jaw of some forms is a fine filament which can be shot out and made to wriggle like a worm to attract small creatures which are then engulfed. These fishes can inflate the belly much like the Blaasops (No. 1 190 on). In our area only the genus Uranoscopus Linnaeus, genotype Vranoscopm scaher Linn. Eyes on top of head whichhs flattened and bony. Spines on opercular bones. Lateral line high up. Scales present. Normal spinous dorsal present. One species in our area. 378. URANOSCOPUS ARCHIONEMA Regan. 21, 43, 47. 572, 695. [Uranoscopus luiplosioma Rgn.] Literature L 4, 19, Fig. 378. URANOSCOPUS ARCHIONEMA Rgn. From above. ■Actual length 6 ins. ColoIi*r'v'!'riabre"'hnri j opercular bones and shoulder. mo r, f 0^20 l» Lf " C'-P' 'P Zanzibar mostly irom zU-150 fathoms, rare, specimens wanted. i i I PI. ATE 13 263. Regalecun glesne, 12 ft. 373. Ammodytes capensfs, 1 ins. 374. Taenio/ahrus mar/evi, 1 ins. 3X0. J’lmincrcis hexophlhalnia, 8 ins. 381. Farapercis nebuhsa, 1 ins. 382. Parapercis pidciwlla, 3 ins. 384. StaUwanthus lalovitiaius. 10 ins. 385. Opislognalhus miiscalensis. 15 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FrSHES- Families PLEUROSCOPIDAE and PARAPERCIDAE 177 Family PLEUROSCOPIDAE Heavy body with small thickened bony scales not overlapping. Spinous dorsal represented by isolated bony knobs along the back. No spines on head, strong spine at shoulder. Lateral line poorly developed. Eyes lateral. No sublingual filament. Only one genus, Pleuroscopus Barnard, with a single species. 379. PLEUROSCOPUS PSEUDODORSALIS Barnard. Literature L 4. Fig. il'-). PLEV ROSCOPUS PSEU DO DORSALIS Brnrd. Actual length 10 ins. Depth about 3L Dorsal of 9 00 separate tubercles followed by the 2nd of II 8. All 8. About 60 series of scales. 18-20 low spiny gill-rakers. No filament in lower jaw. Slaty blue above, white below. Eye silvery blue. Attains 15 ins. Found only in our area from the Cape to Algoa Bay in 60-200 fathoms, a rare and rather repulsive fish. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and f amily and read there also. Family PARAPERCIDAE SMEI.TS Elongate rather robust cylindrical body with small scales. Fairly large mouth with thick lips, jaws and usually palate with small teeth and some larger. A short separate spinous dorsal fin with a long soft fin behind. Caudal rounded in young, lobes produced in adults. Lateral line normal. Rather small agile fishes of weedy tropical waters, nowhere abundant though good eating. In our area only one genus, Parapercis Bleeker, genotype Sciaena cylindrica Bloch, confined to the Indo-Pacific, not many species, 4 in our area, distinguished mainly by markings. .380. PARAPERCIS HEXOPHI'MAI.MA (Cuvier). [Penis polyophthalma Cuv.] Smelt. Literature L 4, 152, 328, 430, 613. Plate 13, p. 177. Depth about 6. Interorbital about equals eye. D V • 19-22. A 1 16-18. L.l. about 60. Tr. 7-19. Caudal lobes extended in large adults. Attains at least 12 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Durban, quite common among weeds in Delagoa Bay, bites eagerly on prawn or fish bait. .381. PARAPERCIS NEBULOSA Quoy & Gaimard. Literature L 4, 19, 21, 43, 47, 96, 127, 146, 247. Plate 13, p. 177. Depth about 6. Interorbital about equals eye. D V • 21-23. A I 17-18. L.l. about 80. Tr. 6/20. Caudal rounded in young, lobes filamentous in adults. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo- Pacific, reaches as far south as Algoa Bay, taken down to 30 fathoms. 382. PARAPERCIS PULCHELL A (Day). [Percis pulchella.] Literature L 72, 328. Plate 13, p. 177. Depth about 5. Interorbital about equals eye. D Vf21-22. A I 16-17. L.l. about 60. Tr. 5 17, 6 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, has been found at Durban, rare in our area. 178 BONY FISHES— Family BEMBROPSIDAE 383. PARAPERCIS ROBINSONI Fowler. Literature L 16. Depth 6. Interorbital about equals eye. D V - 22. A 1 17. L.l. 62. Tr. 9/22. 8 gill-rakers. Li\e colour unknown, probably brownish. Known from only I specimen 1 1 ins. long from Durban, possibly the adult of No. 382. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family BEMBROPSIDAE Elongate body with moderate scales. Caudal almost truncate. Head depressed. Mouth large, lower jaw projects. Fine teeth in jaws, on vomer and palatines. Small fishes of deepish water of most oceans. The single genus Bcmbrops genotype Bemhrops coudimacula Steindachner, with few species, the type in our area. Lateral line curves down over pectoral. A skinny flap at end of maxilla. Hypsicometes Goode is a synonym of Bemhrops. 383a. BEMBROPS C.AUDIMACULA Steindachner. [Bathypercis plalyrhynchus Alcock. Bemhrops cidenensis Norman, or uematopterus Norman.] Literature L 408, 695. Fig. 383a. BEMBROPS CAUDIMACULA Stndnr. Actual length 9 ins. Depth about 6. D VI 14-15, 1st spine sometimes filamentous, probably in males. A 16. L.l. 42-48. Tr. 2/9, (below 1st dorsal). 15-16 gill-rakers, finely spinose. Fine teeth in a knob each side of apex of upper jaw, also on vomer and palatines. Mainly brown-yellow. Front half of 1st dorsal dusky. Vague dusky spots along body, one at upper caudal base. Attains 10 ins. 200-350 fathoms off Japan, India, Aden and Natal. Rare, specimens wanted. BONY FISHES Families MALACANTH! DAE, OPISTHOGNATHIDAE and CALUONYMIDAE 179 Family MALACANTHIDAE Elongate almost cylindrical body with small scales. Mouth moderate, with fine teeth in bands in each jaw with small canines, none on palate. Dorsal and anal fins long, spines feeble. Smallish fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific. In our area the genus Malacanthus Cuvier, genotype Coryphaena plwnieri Bloch, with one species. M4. MALACANTHUS LATOVITTATUS (Lacepede). Literature L 78, 128, 160, 317, 328, 383, 613, 660. Plate 13, p. 177. Depth 5-6. Interorbital I ?, times eye. D 47-51, 1st 4-6 rays spiniform. A 39-41, 1st ray spiniform. L.l. about 130. Tr. 10 45. A few granular teeth behind the others in each jaw. Attains at least 15 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. Small, but good eating. Family OPIS THOCNATHIDAE Rather robust but llabby body with small scales. Head markedly large with large mouth, fine teeth in jaws. Fin spines feeble, barely distinct from soft rays. Caudal rounded. Lateral line high up, incomplete. Rather sluggish fishes of tropical waters, a few species on our east coast, rare in our area, have no common names. One genus, Opisthognathiis Cuvier, genotype Opisthopncithus sonnerati Cuv., with a moderate number of species, 3 in our area. A. Maxilla not to preopercle margin . . muscatensis (385) B. Maxilla beyond preopercle margin. 1. I..I. ends below middle of dorsal . ni^romarginatus (386) 2. L.l. ends behind middle of dorsal . macrostomus (387) 385. OPISTHOtiNA THUS MUSCATENSIS Boulenger. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 43, 47, 366. Plate 13, p. 177. Depth about 4. Eye about equals interorbital. D 25-27, or IX-XI 16. A 15-17, 2 front rays feebly spiniform. L.l. ends below about middle of dorsal. 23-25 gill-rakers. Colour blotchy and somewhat variable but unmistakable. Attains at least 18 ins. Tropical east coast of Africa and Arabia, extends as far south as Durban. Not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, good eating. .386. OPISTHOtiNATHUS NKiROMARC.INA TUS Ruppell. Literature L 4, 150, 162, 275, 328. Depth about 4J. Eye 4 times inter¬ orbital. D 24-26, about 14 feebly spiniform. A 15-18, front 2 feebly spiniform. L.l. ends below middle of dorsal. Maxilla reaches pectoral base. Marbled brown-yellow. A black blotch 4th-8th dorsal spines, black blotch on caudal. Attains 8 ins. Found only in the tropical Indian Ocean, reaches as far south as Durban, rare in our area. .387. OPIS ITIOCN.VTMUS MAC ROS TOMES Smith. Literature L 67. Depth 4J. Interorbital half eye. D XI 13, spines feeble. A II 14, spines feeble. L.l. extends below 5 of dorsal. 25 gill-rakers. Maxilla does not reach to pectoral base. Known only from the type 6 ins. long, taken in Natal. Close to No. 386. Family CALLIONVMIDAE DRAGONETS Elongate almost cylindrical body without scales, head depressed. Small mouth with feeble teeth, none on palate. A large preopercular spine. 2 dorsal fins, spines feeble. Fins usually elongate. Gill-openings small, usually just a rounded pore on each side. Small fishes living on the bottom in most seas, extending to deep water. Shallow water forms spend much of their time by day buried in sand for concealment. They 180 BONY FISHES— Family CALLIONYMIDAE are conveniently obtained by sieving the sand at low tide. The sexes differ, the males being more brightly coloured and with much longer dorsal and caudal fins. They copulate and produce pelagic eggs, which is unusual. As most species are small and rather soft and fragile, identification, especially of small specimens, is dilhcult. Only 4 genera with 5 species in all known from our area, but with organised collecting many more will doubtless be discovered. A. Lateral line simple. 1. Preopercular spine with 1 or more large denticles. (a) Opercular membrane with free flap ... ... ... ... ■•. Synch iropiis (388) {h) Opercular membrane with no free flap ... ... ■. •■. Callionynnis (389 390) 2. No large denticles on preopercular spine . CaHiwichthys (391) B. Lateral line with branches ... ... ... ... • Earacnllionyinus (392) Genus Synchiropus Gill, genotype Callionymus lateralis Rich. Lateral line simple. Preopercular spine with 1 or more denticles. Gill-opening small, on side of shoulder. A (lap on hind margin of opercular membrane. Numerous Indo-Pacific species, one endemic in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 388. SYNCHIROPUS MON,\CANTHUS Smith. Literature L 67. Plate 14, p. 180. D IV 8. A 7. Eye 6 times interorbital. One denticle on preopercular' spine. Gill-opening small, on side of shoulder. Attains 6 ins. Known only from Port Alfred to Durban, down to 120 fathoms, rare, specimens wanted. Genus Callionymus Linnaeus, genotype Callionymus lyra Linn. Lateral line simple. Preopercular spine with 1 or more large denticles. Gill-opening a roundish pore above pectoral. No free (lap on opercular membrane. Numerous species of almost all seas living in sandy areas in shallow water, best sought by sieving the sand. 2 species in our area. A. A dark spot at pectoral base ... . . ... ... marmoratus (389) B. No dark spot at pectoral base ... . ... ... marleyi (390) 389. CALLIONYMUS MARMORATUS Peters. Literature L 4, 221, 234, 248. Plate 101, p. 423. D IV -8-9. A 7-8. Interorbital half eye. Caudal rounded, almost ^ of total length. 2 spinules on preopercular spine. Highly ornate, blue markings especially vivid. Attains 6 ins. Found on our east coast from Delagoa Bay northwards, abundant in estuarine weeds. 390. C.ALLIONYMUS MARLEYI Regan. Literature L 4, 19, 55. Plate 14, p. 180. D IV - 9. A 9. Interorbital 1 eye. Caudal about 4| in total length. 3-5 denticles on preopercular spine. Gill-openings small, on shoulder. Colour somewhat variable. Attains 4 ins. So far found only from Natal to Delagoa Bay in sand in shallow water, quite abundant in Delagoa Bay, easily sieved out. Genus Calliurichthys Jordan and Fowler, genotype Callionymus japonicus Houttuyn. Lateral line not branched. Preopercular spine smooth or serrate, no larger denticles. Caudal elongate. Several Indo-Pacific species, one in our area. 391. CALLIURICHTHYS GARDINERI Regan. Literature L 4, 485. Depth about 6. Eyes close together. D IV 9. A 8. Caudal long and pointed, about i of total length. Colours not known, probably mainly yellow or brown, a dark spot between 3rd and 4th dorsal spines. Attains 9 ins. So far found only in 20 fathoms off Natal, probably identical with some Indo-Pacific form. Genus Paracallionymus Barnard, genotype Callionymus costatus Boulenger. Lateral line with long branches above and shorter below. Caudal and dorsal spines elongate. Preopercular spine smooth and simple. One species in our area. PLATE 14 3XS. Synclurofni.s inoiiacaiuhus, 6 ins. 390. Ca/Iionymti.i niar/eyi. 3 ins. 392. Paracallionyniiis coslatiis, 6 ins. 393. Ch rhitichlhys aprinns. 3 ins. 394. Cinh'Uus piimiiliuus, 9 ins. 395. Paracinh'ues forsteri (after Bleeker). Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family CIRRHITIDAE 181 392. PARACAIXIONYMUS COSTATUS (Boulenger). [Callionymus costatus.] Literature L 4, 49, 413. Plate 14, p. 180. D IV 9-10. A 9. Eyes close together. Gill-opening small, on shoulder. Females less brightly coloured. Attains 6 ins. Found only in our area from St. Helena Bay to Durban in 20-250 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family CIRRHITIDAE Moderately elongate compressed body with moderate scales. Fin spines well developed. Caudal never forked. Small mouth with fine pointed teeth, also on vomer, sometimes on palatines. Lower pectoral rays simple. Small or moderate sized highly coloured carnivorous fishes of warm shallow rocky areas of the Indo- Pacific, some valued as food. 3 genera in our area, not abundant here, have no common names in our area. A. Teeth on palatines. 1. 3-5 rows of scales on cheek... ... ... ... .. ... ... Cirrhitichthys (393) 2. About 20 rows of scales on cheek . ... ... ... ■. Cirrhitus (394) B. No teeth on palatines ... ... ... .. ... . ■.• •.• Paracirrhites (395-396) Genus Cirrhitichthys Bleeker, genotype Cirrhites aprinus Cuv. Scales rather large. 6 simple pectoral rays. 1st dorsal soft ray sometimes filamentous. Teeth on palatines. A few species of the tropics, one in our area. 393. CIRRIirnCHTHYS APRINUS (Cuvier). [Cirrhites fasciatus Cuv., or o.xycephalus BIkr., or yraphidopterus BIkr., or hleekeri Day, or caUiurus Rgn., or aureus Fwir., or indicus Fwir.] Literature L 4, 54, L52, 212, 224, 317, 321, 703. Plate 14, p. 180. Depth about 2i. Interorbital less than eye. D X 12. A 111 6. 6 simple pectoral rays. L.l. about 40 Tr. 4/12. Preopercle margin serrate. Attains 4 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches East London, rare in our area. Genus Cirrhitus Lacepedc, genotype Cirrhitus maculatus Lac. Scales on head small, larger on body. 7 simple pectoral rays. Some teeth enlarged, pointed. Teeth on palatines. A few Indo-Pacific species, one in our area. .394. CIRRHITUS PINNULATUS (Bloch). [Cirrhitus or Cirrhites nuinnoratus Lac., or maculatus Lac., or ntacuhsus Rupp.] Literature L 4, 19, 21, 47, 128, 130, 305, 321, 461. 580, 703. Plate 14, p. 180. Depth about 2J. Interorbital equals eye. D X II 12. A III 6. 7 simple pectoral rays. L.l. about 40. Tr. 4/10. 5 gill-rakers plus 5 knobs. Preopercle margin finely serrate. .Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches as far south as Port Alfred, not uncommon in our area. Lies almost invisibly hidden among rocks and in reefs in wait for prey. Flesh excellent. Genus Paracirrhites Bleeker, genotype Cirrhitus forsteri Bl. Rather large cycloid scales. 6-7 simple pectoral rays. No teeth on palatines. Some teeth in jaws enlarged. Hind margin of preopercle rough. Caudal about truncate. A few species of the tropical Indo-Pacific, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. A. Black spots on head B. No black spots on head forsteri (395) arcatus (396) 395. PAR.ACIRRHITES FORSTERI (Bloch). [Cirrhites pantherinus Cuv.] Literature L 4, 93, 127, 317, 321, 328, 461. Plate 14, p. 180. Depth about 3. D X II. A III 6. 6-7 simple pectoral rays. L.l. about 50. Tr. 5 11. Small canines in jaws, most on sides. Reddish, yellow and light lines below dark stripe. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in our area, but is rare here, specimens wanted. 182 BONY FISHES— Family CHILODACTYLI DAE 396. PARACIRRHITES ARCATUS (Cuvier). [Cirrhiles arcatus.] Literature L 4, 93, 152, 195, 317, 326, 461. Depth about 2i. D X 11-12. A 111 6. 7 simple pectoral rays. L.l. about 48. Tr. 5 12. 2 front canines. Red-brown w'ith lines along body, sometimes a broad pinkish stripe behind. An orange or red blotch enclosing and extending behind eye. Some¬ times 3 red bars aeross opercle, blue bctw'cen. Attains 6 ins. Widespread but rare in the tropical Indo-Pacific, recorded from our area, exact locality unknow'ii, probably Natal, specimens wanted. Family CHU.ODACTYLIDAE Moderately elongate body with small or moderate scales. Small mouth with thick lips and feeble teeth, none on palate. Fins normal, caudal forked. Adult with lower pectoral rays enlarged and detached, used as feelers. Fishes of small or moderate size of all cooler oceans of the Southern Hemisphere, some found in deepish water. In the young the body is highly compressed, deep at the chest, and silvery, the pectorals being normal without detached rays. With growth considerable changes occur, as shown in the case of No. 398. Favouring rocky areas these fishes use the enlarged pectoral rays as feelers for food. The flesh of all is excellent. 2 genera in our area, both endemic. A. 5 free pectoral rays ... . ... . ... ... Chiloductyliis (397) B. 6 free pectoral rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Palunolcpis (398-399) Genus Chilodactyliis Lacepede, genotype the single species. Scales small. Dorsal and anal with sheath of 3-6 scales. 5 free pectoral rays. One species. Kig. ,t%. PARACIRRHITES ARCATUS (Cuv.). After Clunthcr. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 397. CHILOD.4CTYHJS F.\SCI.\TUS Lacepede. [Chiloclactylus muhiradiatus Cd'iX.] Steenvis. Niggerfish. Literature L 4, 14, 94, 128, 251. Plate 15, p. 187. Depth about 3. Interorbital about equals eye. D XVIll-XIX 23-25. A 111 9. L.l. about 80. 12-13 gill-rakers. Cross-bars sometimes continuous, or alternate across body as shown. Attains 15 ins. Found only in our area from Port Nolloth to Durban, mostly in shallow' water, among rocks, but also down to 60 fathoms. Not uncommon, sometimes taken on small hooks. Genus Palunolcpis Brnrd., genotype here designated as Chilodactyliis hrachydactyhis Cuv. Scales moderate, 1-2 in basal sheath of dorsal and anal, below which is a naked groove. 6 free pectoral rays. 2 closely related endemic species. A. 27-31 soft dorsal rays . hrachydacivlus (.398) B. 21-23 soft dorsal rays . yrandis (399) 398. P.ALUNOLEPIS BR.ACHV DACTY LUS (Cuvier). [Platystethus huttoni Gnthr, Chilodaclylus hrachydacivlus or hrevispinis Rgn.] Butterfish (West Coast). Steenklipvis. Literature L 4, 19, 94, 154, 572, 580. Plate 15, p. 187, 3 growth stadia. Depth about 3. Interorbital about equals eye. D XVII-XIX 27-31. A ill 9. L.l. 50-55. Tr. 5 15. 12-14 gill-rakers. Attains 16 ins. Found only in South Africa, from Walfish Bay to Delagoa Bay in shallow water among rocks. The young abound in almost all rock pools, and half-grown fishes penetrate to the shallowest water. All are expert at concealing themselves. Flesh excellent. BONY FISHES— Family THERAPONIDAE 183 399. PALUNOLEPIS GRANDIS (Gunther). [Chilodaciyius grandis.] Bank Steenbras. Literature L 4, 94, 247. Plate 15, p. 187, adult. Depth about 3. Interorbital about equals eye. D XVIII-XIX 21-23. A 111 9. L.l. 50-53. Tr. 5;14. 12-14 gill-rakers. Attains 40 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Natal in 20-80 fathoms, taken mostly by line on rocky banks, but quite frequently in the trawl net also. Flesh good. Sometimes found in tide-pools, the silvery young are much like those of No. 398 (see Plate 15), differing only in the number of soft dorsal rays. Fig. 399. PALUNOLEPIS GRANDIS Gnthr. Juvenile at 2 ins. Family THERAPONIDAE Body compressed with fairly small scales. Mouth moderate with fine teeth in bands in the jaws, outer series larger, sometimes on palate also. Preopercle serrate, sometimes with spines. Fin spines well developed. Caudal rounded or emarginate. Mainly small fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific, some in fresh water, all good eating. 4 or 5 genera, only 2 in our area. A Teeth conical, in bands ... ... ... ■■■ Therapon (400-401) B. Teeth rather flattened, in 2 series in lower jaw . Relates (402) Genus Fherapon Cuvier, genotype Holocentrus cervus Bl. Preopercle strongly serrate. Preorbital serrate. Opercle with spines, lower elongate. Fine conical teeth in bands in each jaw. Numerous species of tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, 2 in our area. A. About 8 scales above L.l. ... ... . . theraps (400) B. About 14 scales above L.l. ... ... . . jarhua (401) 4(M). THERAPON THERAPS Cuvier. [Therapon ohscurus Cuv., or squalidus Cuv., or cinereus Val.] Literature L 4, 93, 152, 527, 548, 623, 627. Depth about 3. Intcrorbital just less than eye. D XI-XII 9-10. A III 8-9. L.l. about 50. Tr. about 8 15. 15-16 gill-rakers. Silvery with 3-4 dark stripes along body, and a black blotch 3rd-7th dorsal spines. 2 oblique bars across each caudal lobe. Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Zanzibar, only once recorded from our area in Zululand. 401. THERAPON .JARBL A (Forskal). [Holocentrus ov Therapon servus ^\.] Tigerfish. Pest of St. Lucia. Umga ( Native = Thorn-tree). Literature L 4, 14, 19, 47, 93, 113, 117, 275, 328, 545, 623, 627. Fig. 401. THERAPON JARBUA (Forsk.). .Actual length 6 ins. 184 BONY FISHES—Family PRIACANTHIDAE Depth about 3. Interorbital about equals eye. D Xl-Xll 10-11. A 111 7-9. L.l. about 80. Tr. about 14 24. 13-14 gill-rakers. Mainly silvery. Attains 12 ins. Widespread and quite abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, normally plentiful in estuaries north of the Kei, extends to almost fresh water. Is to some extent a seasonal southerly migrant more abundant in summer, and in cold winters becomes scarce even in Natal. Should be handled with care as the dorsal and opercular spines inflict sharp pricks, hence the Xosa name, “ Thorn-tree ”. Genus Pelates Cuvier, genotype Relates quinquclmeatiis Cuv. Preopercle and preorbital serrate. Opercular spine short. Teeth compressed, apices brown, 3 series in upper, 2 in lower jaw. A few species, one in our area. 402. PELATES QUADRILINEATUS (Bloch). [Therapou quaclrili/ieatiis, or xauthurus Cuv., or polyUicnia BIkr., or cuvieri Blkr.] Croaker. Literature L 4, 14, 117, 328, 548, 623, 627. Plate 15, p. 187. Depth about 3. Eye about equals interorbital. D XII 10. A III 9-10. L.l. about 70. Tr. about 14 above. 20-22 gill-rakers. Attains 8 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, frequents estuaries and brackish waters, mainly weedy areas, reaches Pondoland, abundant in Delagoa Bay. Croaks when taken from the water. Family PRIACANTHIDAE SCADS: C.4TAEUFAS Ovoid compressed body with small rough scales. Large oblique mouth with fine teeth in bands in the jaws, also on palate. A single dorsal, fin spines well developed. Pelvics rather large. Caudal more or less truncate. Preopercle margin serrate, with spines at angle. Moderate sized or small red carnivorous fishes of all warm seas, extending to deepish water, quite often cast ashore. The young are more spiny than the adult, the preopereular spine being long, but diminishing with age. 2 genera, in our area only Priacanthus Oken, genotype Anthias niacrophthaJmus Bloch, in which the dorsal spines increase in size posteriorly. About 8 rather doubtful species found in most warm seas. 4 in our area, not always easy to distinguish, not abundant here, have no common names in South Africa. All are easily recognisable as Priacanthids. •A. 12-13 soft dorsal rays. 1. 10th dorsal spine about twice 2nd . . ... cruentatus (403) 2. 1 0th dorsal spine longer than twice 2nd . . ... ... hoops (404) B. 14-15 soft dorsal rays. 1. Caudal truncate at all stages . areuatus (405) 2. Caudal crescentic in adults ... . ... . ... hamrur (406) 403. PRI.AC.ANTHLS CRUENT.4TUS (Lacepede). [Priacanthus carolinus Cuv.] .Scad. (Joggle-eye. Catalufa. Literature L 4. 47, 128, 321, 328, 461, 596, 616, 627. Depth about 2|. D X 12-13, 10th spine 1-2 times as long as 2nd. A III 14. L.l. about 70 tubules. 16-19 gill-rakers. Caudal truncate or feebly rounded. Mainly red to purple-red, sometimes faint cross¬ bars. Attains 12 in. In all warm seas, in our area from Mossel Bay to Beira, not uncommonly thrown ashore. Looks much like No. 406, Plate 15, p. 187. 404. PRIACANTHUS BOOPS (Schneider). [Priacanthus japonicus Cuv., or macropus Val., or fax Val., or anticlarens Val., or velahundus McC.] Scad. Literature L 4, 616, 627, 655. Depth about 2. D X 12-13, 10th spine 21-3 times as long as 2nd. A HI 12-13. About 60 tubular scales in L.l. 17-18 gill-rakers. Pelvics usually longer than head. Red, lighter below, fins dusky marginally, pelvics blackish. Attains 20 ins. In all warm seas, has been found in our area from Algoa Bay to Beira, rare here, specimens wanted. Fig. 404. PRIACANTHUS BOOPS (Schn.). After Sauvage. BONY FISHES -Fdm\Uef, PARASCORPfDlDAE, PSEU DOCHROMI DAE &. ACANTHOCLINI DAE 185 405. PRIACANTHUS ARENATUS Cuvier. Catalufa. Literature L 47, 627. Depth about 3,. D X 14. A Ill 15-16. 70-78 tubules in L.l. 21-25 gill-rakers. Pelvics shorter than head. Caudal truncate, at most feebly emarginate with age. Uniform red. Attains 14 ins. In the tropical Atlantic and tropical West Indian Ocean, known from Durban northwards, rare. Doubtful if distinct from No. 406. 406. PRIACANTHUS FIAMRUR (Forskal). [Priacanthus speculum W'd\., or alalua L &.E.\ Scad. Goggle- eye. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 21, 113, 321, 398, 616, 627. Plate 15, p. 187. Depth about 2|. D X 14 15. A III 14-16. About 80 tubules in L.L 18-24 gill-rakers. Pelvics usually shorter than head. Caudal emarginate in young, becomes crescentic with age, lobes produced. Red to purplish red, lighter below, fins usually with dusky margins, pelvics dark basally. Attains at least 16 ins. Widespread in the central tropical I ndo-Pacilic, reaches as far as Mossel Bay, not uncommonly thrown ashore. Family PARASCORPIDIDAE A single species with deep compressed body covered with small rough scales, also on vertical fins. Large mouth with feeble teeth, also on palate, lower jaw projects. Numerous long feathery gill-rakers. Falls in genus Paraseorpis Bleeker, genotype the single species, found only in South Africa. 4(17. PARASCORPIS lYPUS Bleeker. [Atyposomu yurneyi Blgr.] IVlilkfish. Melkvis. Literature L 4, 47, 93, 94, 316, 423, 615. Depth about 2. Interorbital about 11 times eye. D XI Xll 14 17. A III 13 15. L.l. about 140. 36 gill-rakers, long, feathery, easily visible within mouth. Silvery grey to darker. Attains 30 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Delagoa Bay, mostly in deepish water to 100 fathoms. Not abundant. Flesh good. Feeds on organisms strained from the water by the elaborate gill-rakers. Fig. 407. PARASCORPIS TYPUS BIkr. , Actual length 22 ins. Family PSEUDOCMROMIDAE Elongate compressed body. Mouth moderate, with fine teeth in a band in front of each jaw, outer series enlarged, extending to sides of jaws. Fine teeth on palate. Anal and dorsal each with only 2-3 spines, L.l. in 2 parts, the upper generally ending below the hind part of the dorsal fin, the lower along the middle of the peduncle to caudal base. Agile small fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific, living among rocks and weeds, hardly known save to the scientist, to whom they are something of a taxonomic problem. ,A few genera recognised, only one in our area, Pscudochroniis Ruppell. genotype Pseiidochromis oHvaceus Rupp., with one endemic species. 408. PSEI'DDCFIROMIS N AFALENSIS Regan. Literature L 47. 53. 88. Plate 15, p. 187. Depth about 4. Interorbital about i; eye. D II Ill 25-27. A III 16-18. 47-50 series of scales. Lateral lines about 34- 8. Tr. 2 1 1 13. 10-11 gill-rakers. Attains 3.t ins. So far found only from Durban to Delagoa Bay. A cunning small fish not easy to see or catch, lies still against greenish weed or rocks. Closely resembles Pseudoebromis rodnciyi Johnston known from Tasmania. Family ACANTHOCLIMDAE Fairly elongate body with moderate or small scales. Elongate dorsal and anal composed mainly of spines. Pelvics of a spine and 2 rays, the 1st branched. 1-3 lateral lines. Minute fishes of shallow tropical water of the Indo-Pacific. 2 genera, I in our area, .Acanthoplesiops Regan, genotype Acantlioc/inus indicus Day, with rudimentary lateral line. 14 186 BONY FISHES— Family PLESIOPIDAE 409. ACANTHOPLESIOPS INDICES (Day). [Acanthoclinus iiulicus.] Scottie. Literature L 328. Fig. 409. ACANTHOPLESIOPS IS DICES (Day). Actual length U ins. Depth 4. D XIX 4-5. A VIIl-X 4-5. 33 series of scales, 8-9 tubules in L.l. Tr. 18-19. 4 gill-rakers plus 4 low rudiments. Scales on hind part of body with 2 free lobes behind. Attains at most 2 ins. An agile attractive small fish of the tropical Indian Ocean, shallow water, has been taken in Delagoa Bay. Not much known of its habits, specimens wanted. For full information about any species turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family PLESIOPIDAE Heavy robust body with blunt head. Fairly large strong scales. Lateral line in 2 parts, the upper ending below soft dorsal. Fairly large mouth with fine teeth in bands, outer enlarged. Teeth on palate. Pelvics of 1 spine and 4 rays, the front usually thickened. In our area only one genus Plesiops Cuvier, genotype Plesiops nigricans Rupp., with a few species of the tropical Indo-Pacific, all small, usually dark in colour, 2 in our area. A. 6-7 dorsal rays . nigricans (410) B. 8 dorsal rays . nielas (411) 410. PLESIOPS NIGRIC.ANS (Ruppell). [Plesiops caenileolincatus Kupp.. or corallicola Blkr.] Literature L 4, 21, 47, 151, 328, 616. Fig. 410. PLESIOPS .MGRICASS (Rupp.). Actual length 9 ins. Depth about 3. D XI-XII 6-7. A III 6-8. L.l. about 25-28, lower 13-18, total series 28-30. Tr. 2/12. 1 1 low gill-rakers. Dark brown with minute blue spots. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, juveniles abundant about some equatorial islands, reaches as far south as Durban, rare in our area, specimens wanted. , PLATE 15 397. ChilodaclylKS fasciatiis. 8 ins. 398. Paliiiwlepis hnichrdactvliis, top, 2 ins., middle, 4 ins., lowest, 14 ins 399. Pnhmolepis ^randis, 30 ins. 402. Petates quadriJim-aliis, 4 ins' 406. Priacanlhus hamrur, 5 ins. 408* Pseudo- chromis natalen.sis, 3 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES—Family DULEIDAE 187 411. PLESIOPS MELAS Bleeker. Literature L 86, 516, 616. Depth about 3j. D Xl-XII 8. A III 8-9. Scales about 30 series, L.l. above 25, below 15. Tr. 1/11. More or less uniform dark, fins sometimes with light margins. Attains 7 ins. An Indo-Pacific species found in Delagoa Bay, rare, specimens wanted. Family DULEIDAE Rather elongate oval fairly compressed body with moderate ctenoid scales. Mouth moderate, with fine teeth in bands in jaws and on palate. Fin spines strong, a deep notch before soft dorsal. Small fishes of shallow tropical areas of the eastern Atlantic, the Indian and central Pacific Oceans, entering estuaries, some permanently in fresh water. Externally resemble some of the freshwater Sunfishes (Centrarchidae) of North America. In our area one Indo-Pacific genus, Dules Cuvier, genotype Dule.s auriga Cuvier, with a few species, 2 in our area. A. Caudal with 5 dark stripes ... . ... ... ... ... ... taeniurus (412) B. Caudal not with 5 dark stripes ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... rupestris (413) 412. DULES TAENIURUS Cuvier. [Kuhlia taeniura. Dules argenteus Benn.] Flagtail. Flagfish. Literature L 4, 19, 21, 47, 152, 328, 545, 616, 618. Depth about 2:j. Interorbital about equals eye. D X 9-11. A III 9-11. L.l. 50-56. Tr. 5/14. 23-25 gill-rakers. Brilliant silvery. Attains 8 ins. Widespread and abundant in the tropical central Indo-Pacific, common in estuaries almost to fresh water, frequents shallow tide pools, reaches as far south as Mossel Bay. Excellent bait. l-ig. 412. DULES TAEMURUS Cuv. Actual length 5 ins. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 413. DULES RUPESTRIS (Lacepede). [Kuhlia rupestris. Kuhlia malo Less. Dules fuscus Cuv., or marginatus Cuv., guamcnsis Val., or vanicolensis Val., or haswelli MacL.] Perch (Tongaland). Literature L 4, 47, 128, 328, 545, 618. Fig. 413. DULES RUPESTRIS (Lac.) Right, juvenile at 4 ins. from fresh vsater. Left, adult. 12 ins. Depth 2|-3. Interorbital about equals eye. DXIl. A III 9-10. L.l. 40-43. Tr. 5 9. 17-19 gill-rakers. Dusky silvery. In sea often more or less uniform, in fresh water most scales with a large dusky spot. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical central Indo-Pacific, mainly in brackish or fresh water, taken in the sea also. In our area known from Durban northwards, abundant in the coastal freshwaters ot Maputoland, adults occasionally taken in Delagoa Bay. Good eating. 188 BONY FISHES- Families LOBOTIDAE and BRANCHIOSTEGI DAE Family LOBOTIDAE Rather deep body with fairly large scales. Preopercle serrate. Caudal rounded. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw, outer series enlarged, none on palate. Only one genus Lobotes Cuvier with one species, in all warm seas. 414. LOBOTES SURINAMENSIS (Bloch). [Lobotes aiiclorum Gnthr. or paeifieiis J. & E.] Flasher. Triple-fin. Literature L 4, 47, 118, 328, 501, 627, 655, 660. Fig. 414. LOBOTES SURINAMENSIS (Bloch). After Roiighlcy. Depth about 2. Eye 1-2 in interorbital width. D Xl-XIl 15-16. A 111 II. L.l. 43-45. Tr. 9 17. 13-15 gill-rakers. Sometimes dusky spots and faint lines on the body. Attains 40 ins. Occurs in all warm seas, entering estuaries. Known from Port Alfred northwards, rare in our area. Fights well, twists and turns in the water, the sides flashing. Flesh excellent. Family BRANCHIOSTECIDAE Elongate body with large head. Scales moderate or small. Mouth large with a few strong canines and bands of fine pointed teeth, none on palate. A single dorsal fin, all fin spines feeble. A few colourful fishes of tropical to temperate seas, some attaining a fair size, of importance as food. One species [LophokitHus chamaeleonticeps) of fairly deep water off North America had become popular as food, when in 1882, probably as a result of an inflow of very cold water, hundreds of square miles of the surface of the sea were covered with countless millions of these fishes, dead. This species was regarded as extinct, and must indeed have been almost exterminated, for none were seen for close on 40 years, but it has again been found and is apparently increasing in numbers. Only a few genera recognised in this family, 1 in our area, genus Branchiostegus Rafinesque, genotype Coryphaena japonica Houtt., with 2 species, easily distinguished. 415. BRANCHIOSTEGUS JAPOMCUS (Houttuyn). [Branchioste^pts or LatHus ar^entatus C & V 1 Literature L 4, 14, 19, 47, 116, 154, 430. Plate 16, p. 190. Fig. 415. BRA!\CHlOSTEGUS JAPOhICUS (Houtt.). Actual length 12 ins. BONY FISHES -Families PLECTROPOMI DAE and SERRANIDAE 189 Depth about 4. Interorbital slightly less than eye. D VII 14-15. A 13-14. First 2 rays spiniform. L.l. series about 65, tubules about 45, difficult to count. Tr. about 25. 11-13 gill-rakers. Preopercle margin serrate. L.l. not very marked. A low median black ridge on head. Attains 24 ins. Central tropical Itido-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, taken down to 80 fathoms. A common and fairly abundant food-fish of the far east, not often seen in our area. 416. BRANCHIOSTECUS DOIJATUS (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Literature L 4, 47, 154, 247. Plate 16, p. 190. Fig. 416. BRANCfHOSriXiUS DOLIATUS (C. & V.). Actual length 10 ins. Depth about 3:,L Intcrorbital slightly less than eye. D Vl-Vll 15-16. A 13-14, 1st 2 rays spiniform. Lateral line indistinct, lateral series about 80, tubules about 50. 10-12 gill-rakers. Canines at front and hind part of jaws. Preopercle margin serrate. Attains 15 ins. A tropical Indian Ocean form that has been found off Durban and Delagoa Bay down to 200 fathoms, not abundant, good eating. Family PLF.C I ROPO.MIDAK Elongate fairly compressed body with very small scales. Large mouth with fine sharp teeth in bands, inner depressibic. Strong canines in jaws. Teeth on palate, 6-8 dorsal spines, 3 feeble anal spines. Caudal usually weakly emarginate. Only one genus, Plectropomus Oken, genotype Bodia/ms maciilalus Bl. A few Indo-Pacific species, brilliantly coloured, 1 in our area. 417. PLEC'rROPOMUS MACLLATUS (Bloch). [Pleciropoma pimctatum Q. & G., or pessulijerum Fwir.] Literature L 4, 117, 305, 321, 398, 618, 623. Plate 17, p. 193. Depth about 3iL Interorbital slightly greater than eye. D Vll-Vlll 10-12. A 111 7-8. About 130 series of scales. 85-100 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 18 above. 8-10 gill-rakers plus 4 or 5 rudiments. A gorgeous fish, colour somewhat variable, usually brilliant orange with numerous spots on body, head and fins except pelvics and most of pectorals, spots blue, or light with blue margin. Attains at least 42 ins. Widespread m the central tropical Indo-Pacific, taken on lines about reefs, extends as far south as Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. Flesh excellent, highly esteemed, delicate even in large fishes. Specimens wanted. F-'amily SERRANIDAE ROCK-CODS: GROUPERS: GARRUPAS Body usually robust, rather elongate with mostly small adherent ctenoid scales. Mouth normally large with small teeth in bands in jaws and on palate, enlarged caniniform teeth often present in front. A single normal lateral line, not all scales with tubules. Caudal usually rounded or truncate, rarely emarginate. Preopercle margin normally serrate. A group of varied forms which have obviously had origin in the reefs of tropical waters where most still abound. Quite a number are probably tropical East African in origm. Found in all but the coldest seas, Serranids inhabit all types of water, some living normally at fair depths. A few attain a great size, close to 1,000 lbs. in weight. All are excellent eating, many with delicate flesh, much 190 BONY FISHES— Family SERRANIDAE prized, some are strikingly or beautifully coloured. In certain areas they occur in great numbers and are among the most important food-tishes of tropical waters, usually taken on lines, as they frequent areas not easy to net. Only a few deserve to rank as game fishes as most are formidable antagonists for the angler. Numerous genera, A. 6-7 dorsal spines . . B. 9 dorsal spines. 1. 12 dorsal rays . 2. 13-18 dorsal rays. (а) No canines at side of jaw (б) A curved canine at side of jaw C. 10 dorsal spines . D. 11-12 dorsal spines. 1. 7-10 anal rays. (a) No ridge across opercle. (.v) Front nostril with fringed flap ... (_)■) No fringed flap at front nostril. (i) L.l. tubes simple . (ii) L.l. tubes branched ... {h) A ridge across opercle . 2. 11-13 anal rays . rather sluggish, but some of the monsters are quite 10 in our area. . Grant mis les (418) . ... ... Auhu'ocephalus (419) Ccphalopliolis (420-425) Variola (426) Scrranus (427-430) Acantliistiiis (431) Epinephclus (432-451) Promicrops (452) Polyprion (453) Dinoperca (454) Genus Grammistes Bloch, genotype the single species. Rather plump ovoid body with small scales. 6-7 dorsal spines, and no anal spines. Mouth large with bands of fine teeth. A small skinny flap on chin. 418. GRAMMISTES SEXLINE.4TUS (Thunberg). [Grammistes orientalis Bl.) Literature L 4, 19, 21, 47, 321, 328, 618, 623. Plate 16. p. 190. Depth about 21. D VI-VIl 13-15. A 8-11. L.l. with about 70 simple tubules. 7-9 gill-rakers plus rudiments. Skin markedly slimy in life. Markings variable, from 3-9 stripes. Attains 10 ins. Nowhere abundant, but widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, occasionally seen as far south as Durban. Genus Aulaeocephalus Temminck & Schlegel, genotype the single species. Strongly compressed head and body. Large mouth. Scales very small. 9 dorsal spines and 12 soft rays. 419. AULACOCEPHALUS TEMMINCKI Bleeker. Literature L 4. 14, 19, 21, 47, 188, 231. Plate 16, p. 190. Depth about 3. D IX 12. A 111 9. L.l. with about 75 tubules. 17-18 gill-rakers. Attains 14 ins. Widespread but not abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, in rocky areas, found as far south as Durban, not common in our area. Flesh excellent. An unmistakable fish. Genus Cephalopholis Bloch, genotype Ceplialopholis aryns Bl. Fairly small scales. 9 dorsal spines, 14-18 rays. Mouth large, with small canines in front. Caudal truncate or rounded. Small rock-haunting Rock-cods of the warm shallow Indo-Pacific. Fairly numerous species, 7 in our area, not easy to identify, variations often a puzzle even to the expert. A. Caudal almost truncate .. B. Caudal distinctly rounded. I. 2. Body scarlet, red or orange. (a) Usually no marked spots. Reticulations on cheek (h) Blue spots near head only . (c) Blue spots all over Body brow'n or black. (a) 14 dorsal soft rays ... . (h) 15-17 dorsal soft rays. (.v) Many blue spots ... (r) Brown, faint cross-bars ... pachycentron (425a). ray a a (420) sonnerati (421) aurantius (422) miniatus (423) hemistictus (424) ary us (425) See Appendix. PLATE 16 415. Branchioslegiis japoniciis, 16 ins, 416. Rranchioslegm dolioliix, 11 ins. 419. Aulacoccpholiis- ternmir.cki, 12 ins. 421. Cephalopholis soniiemli, 12 ins. 425. Cephalopholis argus, 6 ins. Actual length stated 4 IS. O'rananisfes sexUneatus. 5 ins. 423. Cephalopholis miniams, 9 ins. in each case. BONY FISHES— Family SERRANIDAE !91 420 CEPHALOPHOLIS ROGAA (Forskal). [Serranus or Epinephelus rogaa, or lunaria Rupp 1 Rock-cod. Literature L 88, 113, 240, 275, 618, 623. Fig. 420. CEPH ALOP HOLIS POO A A (Forsk.). Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 2], D IX 17-18. A 111 9. About 53 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 20 above. About 10 gill- rakers plus some rudiments. A single row of teeth on side of lower jaw. Uniform dark. Attains 24 ins. Nowhere abundant, but widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, rare in our area, specimens wanted. 421. C’EPHALOPHOLIS SONNF.R.ATI (Valenciennes). [Serranu.'i or Epinephelus sonnerati, or janthin- opterus mkr.] Red Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 47, 152, 328, 618, 623. Plate 16, p. 190. Depth about 3. D IX 14-15. A III 9. About 70 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 15 above. 9-13 gill-rakers plus some rudiments. 3 series of teeth on side of lower jaw. An unmistakable fish, sometimes spots on body also. Attains 24 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Pondoland, not rare in our area, taken from the shore to 30 fathoms. 422. CEPII.ALOPHOLIS AUR.ANTIL'S (Valenciennes). [Serranus or Epinephelus aurantius, or roseus Val, or analis Val.] Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 14, 240, 310, 383, 618, 623. Fig. 422. CEPHALOPHOLIS AURANTIUS (Val.). After Bleeker. Depth about 2^. D IX 14-16. A 111 8-10. About 50 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 12 above. About 10 gill-rakers plus rudiments. Attains 14 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 192 BONY FISHES— Family SERRANIDAE 423. CEPHALOPHOLIS MINIATUS (Forskal). [Scrrauus or Epinephdus miniatu.s, or maculattis S. & B,, or cyanostigniatoicks Blkr.] Blue Spot Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 21, 43, 47, 1 13, 328, 618, 623. Plate 16, p. 190. Depth about 2’. D IX 14-16. A III 9. About 55 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 10 above. About II gill-rakers plus rudiments. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, rather uncommon in our area. Basic colour red, orange or brown. 424. CEPHALOPHOLIS HEMISTICTUS (RuppcII). [Serrainis or Epinephehis hemistictus.] Ciarrupa. Literature L 4, 47, 151, 240. Depth about 3. D IX 14. A III 9. About 55 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 8 above. 10 gill-rakers plus rudiments. Caudal rounded. Brown to darker, with blue spots on head, on lower part of body, on dorsal, anal and caudal. Pectorals dark. Attains 8 ins. Found only on the tropical east coast of Africa, reaches Zululand, rare, possibly identical with No. 423. 425. CEPHALOPHOLIS .ARGUS (Schneider). [Serranus or Epiiwpliclus argus. or myriaster Cuv., or kendaUi E. & S.] Rock-cod. Black Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 127, 240, 321, 328, 398, 618,623. Plate 16, p. 190. Depth about 2i‘. D IX 15-17. A III 8-9. About 50 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 10 above. 9 gill- rakers plus rudiments. Colour variable, sometimes almost uniform jet-black, mostly with blue spots. Edge of dorsal, caudal and anal often bluish or yellow. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, rather rare in our area. Genus Variola Swainson, genotype Perea [outi Forskal. Elongate smooth highly ornate body with small scales. Large mouth, a curved canine at side of each jaw as well as in front. 9 dorsal spines. Caudal in adult lunate, lobes produced. One species of the tropical Indo-Pacific. 426. V .ARIOLA LOUTI (Forskal). [Serranus or Variola punettdatus Lac., or flavioiarginanis Rupp.] Literature L 19, 81, 240, 328, 613, 618, 623. Plate 17. p. 193, juvenile and adult. Depth about 3. D IX 13-14. A III 8. L.l. with about 65 tubular scales. Tr. about 15 50. Gill-rakers mere knobs. Markings change widely with age, as may be .seen from Plate 17, the adults being one of the most beautiful and shapely of fishes. Attains 30 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, rare in our area. A fine game fish and excellent eating. Genus Serranus Cuvier, genotype Serranus cahrilla Linn. Fairly elongate body with small scales. Mouth large, with moderate canines in front. 10 dorsal spines, 12—15 rays. Caudal truncate or feebly emarginate. An Atlantic genus with a few small species, 4 of which penetrate our area. A. Uniform brown . knysnaensis (427) B. With cross-bars. 1. 21-22 gill-rakers ... ... ... ... ... ... novemcinctus (428) 2. 11-12 gill-rakers . cabril/a (429) 3. 7 gill-rakers . (43Q) PLATE 17 ^\1. Ptectropoma maculatuni, 12 ins. 426. Varu la loiiti, above, juvenile 7 ins., below, adult 24 ins, 429, Serrano cabrilla, 6 ins, 431, Acamhistius behastoides, 9 ins, 433. Epinephelus flavocoeruleus, 9 ins. 440. Epinephehis mepachir (after Bleeker). Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES — Family SERRANIDAE 193 427. SERRANUS KNYSNAENSIS Gilchrist. Literature L 4, 19, 28, 93. Kig. 427. SERRANUS KNYSNAENSIS Gilch. After Gilchrist. Depth about 3.}. D X 13. A 111 7. L.l. about 70. Tr. 8 above. 11 series across cheek. Preopercle flange serrate, naked. 1 1-12 gill-rakers. Caudal emarginate. Canines strong. Maxilla reaches below centre of eye. Uniform brown. Attains 8 ins. Only 2 specimens known, one from Knysna, one from Durban, more wanted. 428. SERRANUS NOVEMCINCTUS (Kner). Literature L 4, 93, 271. Depth 3- 3|. D X 14. A III 7. L.l. 65-77. Tr. 7 23. 21-22 long gill-rakers. Caudal just emarginate. Brown, with 9-10 darker cross-bars. Attains 7 ins. So far found at St. Paul Island, Indian Ocean, and recorded from the Cape, obviously rare in our area. 429. SERRANUS CABRILI.A (Linnaeus). [Paracc/ilropristis cahrillu.] Garrupa. Literature L 19, 67, 398, 655. Plate 17, p. 193. Depth about 3J. D X 13-14. A III 7. About 65 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 8 above. 11-12 gill-rakers. Attains 15 ins. An Atlantic species, mainly tropical, also Mediterranean, and said to be in the Red Sea. Has been found at Knysna and in Natal, not common in our area. 4,30. SERRANUS SCRIBA (Linnaeus). [ParacentroprisUs scriha. Serranus papiHonaceus Val., or maroc- canus Schn.] Vaca or Vaqueta (West Africa). Literature L 21, 655. Depth about 3. D X 15. A III 7. About 60 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 9 above. About 7 gill-rakers. Caudal truncate or feebly emarginate. Brown-red or green-brown above, with about 7 pairs of red-brown cross¬ bars, otherwise much as No. 429. Attains 9 ins. Tropical eastern Atlantic, also Mediterranean, has been found in Natal, rare in our area. Genus Acanthistius Gill, genotype Pleclropoma serratum Cuv. Robust body with small scales. 12 dorsal spines, 7-8 anal soft rays. Caudal rounded or truncate. Front nostril with fringed flap. L.l. tubules with 2-3 branches. In all temperate seas of the southern hemisphere, one species in our area. 431. ACANiHISriUS .SEBASTOIDES (Castlenau). Soup-bully (East London). Kingkiip or Koningkiip (Knysna). Literature L 4, 14, 21, 93, 251, 347. Plate 17, p. 193. Depth about 2'i. Interorbital just less than eye. D Xil 15-16. A III 7-8. Scales small, tubules in L.l. about 60. Tr. 17 50. 7-8 gill-rakers plus rudiments. Attains 14 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Natal in shallow water among rocks, quite often taken by anglers. A sluggish species, may be found at night among rocks in even shallow water, when disturbed merely expands the gill-covers and fins and lies quiet, and may be taken by hand. Flesh excellent. Genus Epinephelus Bloch, genotype Perea fasciata Forsk. Fairly heavy body in adult, with small scales. Mouth large with small teeth in bands, some anterior teeth enlarged. Preopercle margin serrate. Dorsal of 11 spines and 13-18 soft rays. Anal with 3 spines and 7-9 rays. Caudal never forked. These typical Rock- cods are found in all warm seas, mainly about reefs and rocky areas. Some attain a large size (e.g. No. 447). Many are sought by the angler, and the flesh of all but the largest is delicate and well-flavoured. When hooked these fishes attempt to get into holes or crevices, and once firmly wedged cannot be dislodged. The experienced Rock-cod angler at reefs from the first puts every ounce into keeping his fish off the bottom. Numerous species, mainly Indo-Pacific, 21 at present known from our waters. These fishes are a problem even to the expert, as 15 194 BONY FISHES— Family SERRANIDAE the species resemble one another in form, and the characters usually relied upon to show distinction vary relatively little. Also most species change, especially in markings, with growth, and in only few cases are full growth stadia known. There is need for detailed revision of this genus with figures of growth stadia of all species, too voluminous for the present work. A really infallible key to species would be unduly cumbersome, and the outline guide provided together with the illustrations should enable most species to be identified. Some American authors do not accept Epineplieliis and record our species under Serremus. First Group. Those easily recognisable. A. 2nd dorsal spine very long . B. Blue and yellow . C. Small spot on each scale. Red half-moon on pectoral D. Belly yellow, brownish body . E. Margin of spinous dorsal black, red cross-bars F. Dark streaks across cheek, big spots all over dark body G. Dark streaks across cheek, curved stripes or lines of spots H. Distinct honeycomb markings, ctenoid scales . I. Distinct honeycomb markings, cycloid scales . J. Large honeycomb markings . spiniger (432) . . . fla vococruh’us (433) grantnialophoru.s (434) guazci (435) fasciatus (436) andersoni (437) tlong body . morrhua (438) mem/ (439) megachir (440) For 440a, see Appendix, p. 503 Second Group. Less easily recognisable forms. A. 9 anal rays . . B. 8 anal rays. 1. Only 2 series of teeth at side of lower jaw. {d) 14 dorsal rays . {h) 15-17 dorsal rays. (.y) Caudal rounded. (i) Cross-bars . ... . (ii) Spotted . (_i) Caudal truncate. Spotted ... . (z) Caudal emarginate. Spotted ... . 2. 3 or more series of teeth at side of lower jaw. {a) Cross-bars and spots. (.y) 15 dorsal rays . . (j) 16-17 dorsal rays . (b) Spots only. (.y) Maxillary groove black. Two closely related forms... (v) Maxillary groove not black . modesius (441) a Ihomarg ina t us ( 442 ) diacanthus (443) far to (444) ... chlorostigmc/ (445) areolatus (446) tauvina (447) adscencionis (448) sumnunui (449) cacrulco-punctatus (450) ... fuscoguttatus (451) 432. EPINEPHELUS SPINIGER (Gunther). [Serranus spiniger.] Literature L 19, 240. Fig. 432. EPINEPHELUS SPINIGER (Gnthr.). After Fowler. Depth about 3. D XI 16. A 111 8. L.l. tubules about 70. 12 gill-rakers. Live colour unknown, probably uniform brown. Attains 10 ins. Known from the tropical Pacific but very rare, has been found in Natal. Specimens wanted. BONY FISHES— Family SERRANIDAE 195 433. EPINEPHELUS FLAVOCAERULEUS (Lacepede). Literature L 4, 19, 47, 67, 128, 328, 618, 623. Plate 17, p. 193. Depth about 2.L D XI 15-17. A III 8. L.l. 65-70 tubules. Tr. about 25 above. 16-18 gill-rakers. The extent of the 2 colours varies, but the species is unmistakable. A lovely fish. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred. 434. EPINEPHELUS GRAMMATOPHORUS Bouicnger. Rock-cod. Literature L 4, 11, 14, 43, 47, 310. Plate 18, p. 196, adult. Fig. 434. EI'INEPHFAMS GRAMMATOPHORUS BIgr. Juvenile, length 5 ins. Depth about 3i. D XI 16 17. A III 7-8. About 90 series of scales, about 60 with tubules. .*Tr. about 12 40. 12-15 gill-rakers. Colour varies somewhat, but small spots constant and red-brown mark on pectoral usually prominent as in our specimen. Attains 15 ins. Not abundant but widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, not rare in our area. Possibly identical with Epinepbelus rhyncholepis BIceker, from the Indo-Pacific. 435. EPINEPHELUS GUAZA (Linnaeus). [Epinepbelus gi^as ]Ar.] Yellowbelly. Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 47, 93, 105, 240, 580, 655. Plate 18, p. 196, juvenile and adult. Depth about 3. D XI 14 16. A Ml 8. 60-75 tubules in L.L Tr. 12-16 above. 15-17 gill-rakers. Attains 40 ins. Old specimens almost uniform, belly becomes grey-yellow, very heavy in body. Attains close on 100 lbs. in weight. A tropical Atlantic species, Mediterranean also, found in our area from Knysna to Natal, quite common. 436. F.PINFiPHELUS F.\SCT.\TUS (Forskal). Synonymy voluminous. Rock-cod. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 47, 113, 310, 328, 618, 623. Plate 18. p. 196. Depth about 3. D XI 16. A 111 8. 50-80 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 12 above. 14-16 gill-rakers. Cross-bars tend to fade with age, but black margin to spinous dorsal remains. Attains 14 ms. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, not rare. 437. EPINEPHELUS ,\NDERS()NT Boulenger. [Serranus ebahaudi Cast.] Rock-cod. Kingkiip or Koningkiip (Knysna). Literature L 4, 11, 21, 43, 47. Plate 19, p. 196. Fig. 437. EPINEPHELUS ANDERSON! Blgr. Actual length 24 ins. 196 BONY FISHES— Family SERRANIDAE Depth about 3J. DXI 15-16. A 111 8. L.l. about 80 tubules. Tr. about 16 above. About 16 giU-rakers. Attains 30 ins. Found only in our area from Knysna to Delagoa Bay, often in quite shallow water about rocks. Sluggish, but good eating. 438. EPINEPHELUS MORRHUA (Cuvier). [Epinephelus pracopercularis Blgr.] Rock-cod. Literature L 4, 19, 21, 47, 157, 328, 499, 618, 623. Plate 18, p. 196, young and adult. Depth about 3. D XI 14-15. A III 7-8. L.l. about 60 tubules. Tr. about 14 above. 14-16 gill-rakers. .Attains at least 24 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as pondoland, not rare in our area. 439. EPINEPHELUS IMERR.A (Bloch). [Serranus or Epinephelus he.xagonatus Schn., or stcllans Blkr., or stellatus Sny.] Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 14, 47, 117, 152, 310, 328, 527, 613, 618, 623. Plate 18, p. 196. Depth about 3. D XI 15-17. A III 8. About 50 tubules in L.l. Scales mostly ctenoid. Tr. 12-14 above. Teeth in 3-4 series at side of lower jaw. 15-17 gill-rakers. Markings mostly hexagonal, somewhat variable. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, the young not uncommon in shallow rock-pools. 440. EPINEPHELUS MEG.ACHIR (Richardson). [Epinephelus fiUherti Rich, or eylindriciis Blkr.] Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 275, 383, 398, 580, 618, 623. Plate 17, p.’l93. Depth about 31. D XI 16-17. A III 8. About 50 tubules in L.l. Tr. 12-13 above. Scales cycloid. 15-17 gill-rakers. Teeth in 2 series at side of lower jaw. Brownish, usually honeycomb network. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been recorded from Natal. Quite likely identical with No. 439. 441. EPINEPHELUS MODESTUS Gilchrist & Thompson. Rock-cod. Literature L 4, 14, 43. Depth about 3. D XI 14— 16. A III 9. L.l. tubules about 70. Tr. about 20 above. 17 gill-rakers. Caudal truncate. Teeth in 2 series at side ot lower jaw. Uniform brown, anal with light margin. Attains 16 ins. Known only from Pondoland and Natal, rare, possibly identical with No. 435. 442. EPINEPHELUS ALBOMARGIN.ATUS (Boulenger). Rock-cod. Literature L 4, II, 19, 43, 47. Depth 3. D XI 14. A 111 8. L.l. with about 65 tubules. Tr. 18-20 above. 13-15 gill-rakers. Teeth in 2 series at side of lower jaw. Reddish to brown with dark spots. Attains 15 ins. So far found only from East London to Delagoa Bay in shallow water among rocks. 443. EPINEPHELUS DI.AC.ANTHUS (Valenciennes). Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L4 14 19 152 310, 328, 398, 580, 618, 623. Plate 18, p. 196, juvenile. Depth about 3]. D XI 15-17. A III 7-8. L.l. with about 55 tubules. Tr. about 16 above. 15-16 gill-rakers. 2 marked spines at preopercle angle. 2 series of teeth on side of lower jaw. Attains 22 ins Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Durban, not common in our area. - _5. Fig. 449. EPINEPHELUS SUMMANA (Forsk.). .'kt'tcr Kiunzingcr. Depth about 3. D XI 14-15. A 111 8. About 40 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 15 above. 12-15 gill-rakers, some feeble. Teeth in 2 series on hind part of lower jaw, 3 on side. Mainly brown. Attains 20 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches Durban, rare in our area.'very close to No. 450. 450. EPINEPHELUS CAERULEOPUNCTATUS (Bloch). Garrupa. Rock-cod. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 21, 55, 117, 328, 398, 618, 623. Plate 18. p. 196, Juvenile. Depth about 31. D XI 15-16. A 111 8. About 60 tubules in L.l. Tr. about 16 above. 16-1 8 gill-rakers. 3-4 series of teeth at side of lower jaw. Colour variable, mainly purple-brown with white or blue spots of various types. Attains 30 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as East London, rare in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 451. EPINEPHELUS FUSCQGUTT.ATUS (Forskal). [Serranus or Epinephehis mierodon Blkr., or meleagris Pet., or dispar Plyfr.] Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 19, 55. 113, 151, 310, 328, 398. 618, 623. Plate 19, p. 196. Depth about 3. D XI 13-15. A 111 8. About 60 tubules in L.l. Tr. 15-20 above. 16-18 gill-rakers. Teeth in broad bands even on side of lower jaw. Markings fade with growth, adults uniform brown. Attains at least 40 ins., and body becomes thick and heavy. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, not common in our area. Genus Promicrops Poey, genotype Serranus guara Poey. Rather elongate robust body with small scales. Interorbital wide. 11 dorsal spines. L.l. tubules branched. 2 species, one Atlantic, one in our area from the Indo-Pacific. 452. PROMICROPS L.4NCEOL.XTUS (Bloch). [Epinephelus lanceolatus. Oligorus goliath de Vis.] Brindle Bass. Garrupa. Literature L 4, 14, 47, 93, 117, 328, 618, 623. Plate 19, p. 196, two stadia. Depth about 3. D XI 14-15. A HI 8. About 65 branched tuDules in 1..1. Tr. 14 45. 14 gill-rakers. Attains at least 12 ft. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Algoa Bay, better known about Durban and St. Lucia, enters tidal estuaries. A famous angling fish of considerable strength, stated to attack men in the water. Colours change with growth, large adults are almost uniform black. Genus Polyprion Cuvier, genotype Amphiprion amerieanus Bl. Heavy robust body with small scales. 1 1-12 dorsal spines and 9-10 anal rays. Large mouth with bands of fine teeth. .A distinct bony ridge across opercle. Serranids of rather deep water, 2 species, one in our area. BONY FISHES -Family SERRANIDAE 199 453. POLYPRION AMERICANUS (Bloch). [Polyprion cernium Gnthr.] Black Bess. Pufaro. Wreckfish. Stonebass. Literature L 4, 93, 127, 240, 387, 529, 655. Fig. 453. POLYI’RION AMERICANUS (Bl.). Actual length 24 ins. Depth about 3. Interorbital about 1,J- times eye. D Xl-XII 11-12. A III 9-10. Small scales, about 85 tubules in L.l. Tr. 16/45. 7-8 gill-rakers plus some rudiments. Caudal rounded in young. Attains at least 7 ft. Occurs over most of the Atlantic and Mediterranean, also about New Zealand. In our area from the Cape to Natal in 30-250 fathoms, not abundant, but occasionally taken in numbers. Appears to favour the neighbourhood of wrecks, often caught there, and a trawler has taken 5 tons of this fish in one haul near a wreck in 60 fathoms. Flesh excellent. Liver oil valuable, one of the richest in Vitamin A. Genus Dinoperca Boulengcr, genotype Hapalogeny.s petersii Day. Rather compressed body with small scales. Mouth large, with small teeth in bands. Preopercle serrated. II dorsal spines, 11-13 anal rays. One species. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 454. DINOPERCA PETERSII (Day). [Hapalogenys petersii. Dinoperca queketti Blgr.] Lantern Fish. Butterbream ( Pondoland). Butterfish. Blackfish. Literature L 4, 11, 19,47, 328. Fig. 454. DINOPERCA PETERSII (Day). Actual length 15 ins. Depth about 2h Interorbital about | eye. D XI 17-19. A Ill 11-13. L.L with about 55 tubules. Tr 16/28. 25-27 well developed gill-rakers. Dorsal and anal densely scaly. Young have oblique cross-bars, with age the light spots also fade. Attains at least 24 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, found as far south as Pondoland in rocky areas. Usually fat, flesh excellent, sluggish on a line. 200 BONY FISHES—Family ANTHUDAE Family ANTHFIDAE Rather compressed body with moderate or large adherent ctenoid scales. Mouth moderate, with small teeth in bands in jaws and on palate, usually some enlarged caniniform teeth in front. Caudal emarginate or if truncate becoming emarginate or lunate with age, lobes sometimes produced. Preopercle itiargin usually serrate. Small or medium sized mostly brilliantly coloured fishes of tropical seas, .some in deepish water, living mainly about reefs. Numerous genera in all warm seas, 4 in our area, easily distinguished. A. 10 dorsal spines. 1. 15-16 dorsal rays . . Planctanthias (455) 2. 17-18 dorsal rays. {a) Depth about 2 . . Holanthias (456) (h) Depth about 2.1-3 . Anthias (457-459) B. 1 1 dorsal spines . . Callanthias (460) Genus Planctanthias Fowler, genotype the single species. Compressed body with small rough scales. Mouth moderate, teeth small, in 1 series in each jaw, 2 wide set small canines in front. 10 dorsal spines and 15 16 soft rays. A strong spine at preopercle angle. 455. Pi.ANCTANTHF.AS PRAEOPERCULARFS Fowler. Literature L 21. Plate 21, p. 2().T Depth about 2.1. Interorbital about equals eye. D X 15-16. A III 7. L.l. 48-35. Tr. 4 13. 22 gill-rakers. Attains li ins. So far known only from specimens washed ashore at Durban during a storm. More wanted. The preopercular spine likely only a juvenile character and may vanish with growth. Genus Holaiithias Gunther, genotype Aiuhias front icinctus Gnthr. Compressed fairly deep body with moderate scales. Mouth fairly large with small teeth in bands, and small canines. Teeth on tongue also 10 dorsal spines and 17-18 soft rays. Tropical Atlantic and Indian Oceans. One species in our area, possibly the only one. 456. HOL.ANTHFAS N.AT.ALENSIS (Fowler). [Sacura or Anthias natalensis Ghtucosonici peaolopesi Smith. Holanthias furcatus Pell.] Literature L 4, 14, 78, 86, 630. F’late 20, p. 200. Depth about 2. Interorbital about U times eye. D X 17-18. .A III 8-9. L.l. about 30. 23-24 gill- rakers. Attains 27 ins. A magnificent fish, so far found from Durban to Madagascar, rare. Genus .Anthias Bloch, genotype Anthias sacer Bl. Moderate mouth with small canines. PreopercFe serrated. 10 dorsal spines and 17-18 soft rays. Tropical Atlantic and Indian Oceans. One species in our area, possibly waters, a number of the Indo-Pacific, 3 in our area, not easily distinguished. A. Depth 2.1 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... huchtii (437) B. Depth 22-3. 1. 3rd dorsal spine normal . manarh-nsis (438) 2. 3rd dorsal spine filamentous . squamipinnis (439) 457. .ANTHF.AS HUCHTFF Bleeker. Literature L 4, 34, 230, 310, 398, 623. Depth about 2i. D X 17. A 111 7. L.l. 37-40. Tr. 3-4/13. 2 -25 gill-rakers. Caudal emarginate, lobes produced. Rosy, darker above, sometimes vague cross-bars, and a pale streak from the eye. .Attains 4 ins. Found at odd places in the tropical Indo-Pacific, also in Natal, rare in our area. 458. .ANTHF.AS .VIAN.ADENSFS Bleeker. Literature L 4, 54, 227, 310, 398, 623. Depth about 2|. D X 17-18. A III 7-8. L.l. 40-45. Tr. 2-3 15-16. 25-26 gill-rakers. Caudal emarginate, lobes produced. Rosy golden, darker above with rosy stripes along the body. Fins orange with blue margin. Attains 4 ins. Known from odd places in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal, rare in our area. lift • I'Mi** PLATE 20 456. Holanlhioi iiala/ensis, 20 ins. 459. Anthias sqiiamipinnis, 3 ins., 2 colour varieties. 460. Callanihias tegras, 10 ins. 571, Pseiicliipenei/s pleiiroiaenia, 1 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family OPLEGNATHI DAE 201 459. .\NTHIAS SQUAMIPINNIS (Peters). [Anthias lepidolepis Blkr., or cheirospHos Blkr., or nobiiis Franz or ardens J. & T., Franzia aniens J. & T., or a ffinis Tan., or rubra Tan.] Literature L 4, 54, 221, 310, 383, 398, 618, 623. Plate 20, p. 200, 2 colours. Depth 2|-3. D X 17-18. A 111 7-9. L.l. 40-44. Tr. 2-3 14-1 7. 25-26 gill-rakers. Attains 4 ins. Occurs at odd places in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Port Alfred, rare in our area. An agile and beautiful fish. Genus Callanthias Lowe, genotype Bodianas peloritanus Cocco. Fairly elongate body. Mouth fairly large with small teeth in bands and canines in front. Preopercle not serrate. 11 dorsal spines, 10 anal rays. Lateral line runs along dorsal base. One species from the tropical western Atlantic, one from Australasia, and one in our area. 460. CALLANTHIAS LEGRAS Smith. Goldfish (Trawlers). Literature L 88. Previously wrongly identified as Callanthias allporli Gnthr. Plate 20, p. 200. Depth about 3. Interorbital equals eye. D XI 10-11. A 111 10. 43-44 series of scales. 33 tubules in L.l. Tr. 2/14. 22 gill-rakers. Fairly strong canines project forwards. Type from 30 fathoms off Algoa Bay, others from deep water off Dassen Island. One, possibly wrongly identified, seen earlier off Natal. A gorgeous creature. Family OPLEGNATHIDAE PARROT FISHP'.S Fishes of the Southern Hemisphere with firmly adherent small tough scales. The early young are normal in every way with separate incisiform teeth, but with growth the teeth unite to form a powerful parrot-like beak, which has led to various w'ild beliefs about the origin of these fishes. They use the beak to nibble and tear food from the rocks. Nowhere abundant, they are not uncommonly taken on lines from the shore. The young are usually yellow with cross-bars, but the adults are almost all dusky or black. They are not at all closely related to the colourful tropical Parrot-fishes (No. 821 on), with similar beak and habits. Only one genus in South Africa, Oplegnathus Richardson, genotype Ople^nathus conwayi Rich. 3 species in our area. A. 11-14 dorsal soft rays ... ... ... ... . . ■■. conwayi (461) B. 20-22 dorsal soft rays. 1. Depth about 2 . rohinsoni (462) 2. Depth about 2.1 . peaolopesi (463) 461. OPLEGN.VTHUS C()N\^ .\YI Richardson, [floplegnaihus conwayi. Ichthyorhamphus pappei Cast. Hoplegnathus a/goensis Glch.j Bastard Galjoen. Beaked Galjoen. Pappegaaivis. Parrotfish. Golden Roman (Juvenile, Plettenberg). Literature L 4, 46. 175, 251, 635. Plate 102, p. 430, juvenile. Fig. 461. OPLEGSATHUS CO.\WAYI K\ch. Left, juvenile at 4 ins. Right, adult. 20 ins. 16 202 BONY FISHES— Family OWSTONIIDAE Body becomes more elongate with age, depth juvenile 2, adult 2i|. D XII 11-14. A 111 11-13. 15-17 gill-rakers. Adults dusky, almost uniform, fresh from the water have a rosy sheen which soon fades. Juveniles golden yellow, with 2 cross-bars as shown. Attains 36 ins. Found only in South Africa from False Bay to Natal, mostly in shallow water, also to 60 fathoms. On our coast there are special rocks where this fish is regularly caught, but rarely more than one or two in a day. Flesh good, but some people fear to eat it because of the beak. 462. OPLEGNATHUS ROBINSONI Regan. [Hoplegnathus rohinsoni.] Parrotfish. Literature L 4, 21, 53, 67, 86, 635. Juvenile, Plate 39, p. 255. Depth li-2. D XI 20-22. A III 14-16. Beak of adult with uneven edge. 16-17 gill- rakers. Adults uniform dusky or black. Attains 24 ins. Only stray juveniles south of Natal, one at Knysna. These resemble the young Zebra (No. 714). Known first in Natal for many years only from the juvenile, the adult occurs quite commonly from Delagoa northwards, and will probably be found all along the East African coast. Flesh good. Taken on lines about reefs in 10-50 fathoms. Fig. 462. OPLECSATHUS ROBINSONI Rgn. Actual length 16 ins For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Fig. 463. OPLEGNATHUS PEAOLOPESI Smth. Actual length 24 ins 463. OPLEGN.4THUS PEAOLOPESI Smith. Parrot Fish. Literature L 86. Depth 2^ D XI 20-21. A 111 16. Beak mosaic-like. 15 gill-rakers. Adults dusky, juveniles unknown. .Attains 30 ins. Found only from Delagoa Bay northwards, taken on lines about reefs in 10-60 fathoms. Flesh good. Large fishes easily recognised by the bump before the eyes. Family OWSTONIIDAE Elongate compressed tapering body with moderate cycloid scales. Mouth oblique with one series of moderate conical teeth. Lateral line runs up to and along base of dorsal ending below last ray, the two lines joined in front of dorsal. Caudal elongate. Eye large. Peculiar rare small fishes of deep water of the Indo- Pacific, something of a puzzle to the systematist. Several genera, not well defined, in our area only Para- sphenanthias Gilchrist, genotype the single species. 464. PARASPHENANTHIAS WEBER! Gilchrist. Literature L 19, 39. Plate 21, p. 203. [Onstonia weheri. Parasphenaiuhias microlepis Fwlr.] Depth about 3’. D 23, first 3-9 rays weakly spiniform. A 15-16, first 2 rays spiniform. of scales. L.l. 44-46. Tr. about 16. About 30 gill-rakers. Attains 11 ins. From Natal to to 200 fathoms. Rare, specimens wanted. Related forms in Japan. About 42 series Zanzibar, down ■" . ■/ ' _^v>.^^.•., * i « V. 4 ‘ •• ■ ■' ‘','v '■ •^•’‘ 1'^' PLATE 21 455. Plonctonlhias pfeoperculQris^ ins. 464. Pcttasphcnonlhicis wcheti^ 8 ins. 465. AccituhoccpoUi cuncato, I I ins. 501. Trachiirus trachurns, 12 ins. 672. Nemipteru.s ck'/agoae, 10 ins. 961. Aspiitonlus filantenlosus. 4 ins. 962. Aspi- c/ontiis rhinorhvnchos. 4 ins. 963. Aspiilnnliis lapeinosoma, 3 ins. .Aclual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Families CEPOLIDAE and SILLAGINIDAE 203 Family CEPOLIDAE BANDFISHES: SNAKEFISHLES Elongate tapering highly compressed body with minute scales. Oblique mouth with fine teeth in a single row in jaws, none on palate. Dorsal and anal united with caudal. Lateral line runs along dorsal base. Curious elongate highly coloured fishes found in coastal waters of the eastern Atlantic, and widespread but rare in the central Indo-Pacific. They inhabit rocky areas and in Europe are not uncommonly taken on lines. In our area they are rare, only 2 specimens ever taken. The genus, Acanthocepola Bleeker, genotype Cepola krausen- sterni Schl., with blunt spines on the preopercle margin. Several Indo-Pacific species, one certainly, and possibly 2, in our area. A. Depth about 6 . cmeata (465) B. Depth about 12 . limhata (466) 465. ACANTHOCEPOl.A CUNEATA Smith. Literature L 67. Plate 21, p. 203. Depth about 6. D about 65. A about 75. L.l. runs along dorsal base. About 280 series of scales. Only one specimen known, ! I ins. long, from Natal, more wanted. 466. ACAN'I'HOCEPOLA LIMBAFA (Cuvier). [Cepola inciica Day. Acanthocepola mesoprion Blkr.] Literature L 4, 162, 218, 369, 373, 444. Depth about 12. D about 100. A about 100. L.l. runs along dorsal base. More than 300 series of scales. Red, with a black blotch in front of dorsal. Attains 14 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific. A doubtful record by an earlier worker based on the examination of a dried Delagoa Bay specimen, possibly No. 465. Family SILLACJINIDAE SMELLS : PFiSCADINHAS Rather rohiist elongate tapering body with fairly small scales, mostly easily shed. Small mouth with fine teeth in bands in jaws and on vomer, none on palatine. 2 dorsals, the 1st of 10-11 spines. 2 anal spines. Small fishes of shallow water of the tropical Indo-Pacific, often found in estuaries. Though mostly small they are much esteemed, as the flesh is delicate and tasty. They are termed Whiting in Australia. A few genera, in our area only one, Sillago Cuvier, genotype Sillago acuta Cuv., with few species, 3 in our area. A. 1st pelvic soft ray normal. 1. Uniform pearly . . ... ... ... •• siliama (467) 2. With dark blotches . maculata (468) B. 1st pelvic ray thick, bony and curved ... ... . . chondropus (469) 467. SIl.LAGO SIH.AMA (Forskal). [SiUago acuta Cuv.] Smelt. Pescadinha (Portuguese). Literature L 4. 14, 19, 47, 113. 328, 623, 635. Fig. 467. SILLAGO SIHAMA (Forsk.). Actual length 9 ins. Depth about 5i. D X-XI M 20-23. A II 21-24. L.l. about 70. Tr. 6/10. 8-9 gill-rakers. Scales on cheek cycloid. Attains at least 12 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Knysna, quite abundant in Delagoa Bay. Taken in sandy areas on small hooks. A delicious eating fish. Sometimes skips along the surface of the water when disturbed. 204 BONY FISHES— Family APOGONIDAE 468. SILLAGO MACULATA Quoy & Gaimard. [Sillago gracilis All. & Mad., or aeohts J_ & £,] Literature L 4, 14, 147, 326, 328, 623, 635. Depth about 5. D X-XI j 1 18-21. A 11 20-23. L.l. about 70. Tr. 6/10. 9-10 gill-rakers. Scales on cheek cycloid. Silvery grey with indefinite dark blotches along side. Fins with dusky to greyish markings .Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Dclagoa Bay, rare in oiir area. 469. SILLAGO CHONDROPUS Sleeker. Pcscadinha (Portuguese). Literature L 4, 47, 196, 247, 623 635- Fig, 469. SILLAGO CHONDROPUS BIkr. Actual length 10 in.s. Depth about 6J. D XI ; 1 21-22. A 11 22-24. L.l. about 70. Tr. 5 10. 7-8 gill-rakers. Scales on cheek ctenoid. Pelvic spine .short, adnate to 1st ray which is thick, bony and recurved. Pettrly, fins light. Attains at least 14 ins. An East Indian species, rather rare, has been found from Durban to Beira. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family APOGOMDAF. CARDINAL FISHES Body oblong to elongate, sometimes fitirly compressed, with rather large scales. Mouth large, teeth fine or camniform, sometimes also on vomer and palatines. 2 dorsal fins, the first of 5-9 spines. Only 2 anal spines. Easily recognisable small agile mostly vividly coloured carnivorous fishes of tropical waters most abundant in the Indo-Pacific region. They live in and about reefs and among weeds, commonly in coral fragments in shallow water and in tide pools, but a few types normally inhabit deeper water. In most species when danger threatens the male takes the fertilised eggs in his mouth and may be recognised by the .swollen chin Even after the eggs hatch the very young fishes still shelter in his mouth. These fishes have no common names m our area, as few are seen south of Natal and most are small. 9 genera in our waters, most on the east coast. -A. Distinct canine teeth present. 1. 1st dorsal with 6 spines 2. 1st dorsal with 9 spines . B. No canine teeth. 1. Inside of mouth black. Depth 3.’, -47 2. Inside of mouth not black. (a) Depth l;5-3. (i) Caudal more or less forked. (.v) Less than 10 soft anal rays... (j) More than 10 soft anal rays (ii) Caudal rounded. Cv) A papilla each side of snout (>’) No papilla on snout (iii) Caudal truncate ... . (b) Depth 4-J— 5 CheHodipterus (470—472) Symgrops (473) Epigonus (474) Apogon (475—488) Archamia (489—490) Papillapogon (491) Apogonichihys (492—493) Apogonichihyoules (494) Hynnodus (495) BONY FISHES— Family APOGONIDAE 205 Genus Cheilodipterus Lacepede, genotype Cheilodipterus Uneatus Lac. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 6 spines. Body rather robust. Interorbital less than eye. Distinct canine teeth in the jaws. Scales large, easily shed. Vicious carnivorous small fishes of shallow water, 3 species in our area. A. 5 stripes along the body ... ... . ... ... ... quinquelineatus (470) B, 9 or more stripes along the body. 1. Black spot at base of tail ... . ... ... Uneatus (471) 2. Black bar across base of tail . ... . .■ caninus (472) 470. CHEILODIPTERUS QUINQUELINEATUS Cuvier. Literature L 4, 152, 321, 328, 430, 616, 618. Depth 3-4. D VI 1 I 9. A II 8-9. L..1 23-25. Tr. 3/6. 9 gill-rakers. Silvery, reddish reflections, 5 dark stripes along the body, the mid 3 from the head. Tip of 1st dorsal dark. In general appearance resembles No. 471. Attains 5 ins. Comes from the central Indo-Pacific, rarely found south of Delagoa Bay. 471. CHEILODIPTERUS LINEATUS (Linnaeus). Literature L 86, 328, 616, 618, 641 . Plate 22, p. 206. Depth 3-4. D VI I 1 9. A II 8. L.l. 22-26. Tr. 2''6. 7 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, rare in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 472. CHEILODIPTERUS CANINUS sp. nov. Plate 22, p. 206. Depth 2|. D VI I I 9. A II 8. L.l. 26. Tr. 2 '9. 11 gill-rakers. So far only one specimen found ill shallow water among weeds at Inhaca Island in Delagoa Bay. Was observed to swim with speed, and snapped viciously when caught. Length 5 ins. Genus Synagrops Gunther, genotype Melanostoma japonicuni Stndr. Rather elongate body with 2 dorsal fins, the first of 9 spines. Distinct canine teeth in jaws. Scales large, easily shed. An Indo-Pacific deep-water genus with only one species in our waters. 473. SYNAGROPS .lAPONICUS Steindachner. [Synaf^rops natalensis Glch.] Literature L 4, 39, 367, 618, 695. Fig. 473. SYNAGROPS JAPONICUS Stndnr. Actual length 4) ins. Depth about 3-2-4. Interorbital less than eye. D IX-fl 10. A 11 8. L.l. about 33. Tr. 2/9. 10 gill-rakers. Dull brown. Attains 7 ins. Occurs in 100-300 fathoms in the Indo-Pacific, taken in Natal waters at 230 fathoms, more wanted. 206 BONY FISHES— Family APOGONIDAE Genus Epigonus Rafinesque, genotype Epigonus macrophtbalmus Raf. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 7 spines. Body elongate. No canines. Mouth and gill-chamber black. Scales rather small, easily shed. An Atlantic deep-water genus with one species from our area. 474. EPIGONUS TELESCOPUS (Risso). [Epgonus macrops G. & von B.] Literature L 4, 21, 152, 340, 394, 655. Fig. 474. EPIGOSVS TELESCOPUS (Risso). .Actual length 6 ins. Depth 4^. Interorbital less than eye. D Vll ; 1 9-10. A 11 9. L.l. ^0-55. Tr. 3^/10. 15 gill-rakers. Uniform black or brown, also mouth and gill-chamber. Attains 24 ins. Deep water of the Atlantic, several specimens taken at 500-700 fathoms off our west coast. Genus Apogon Lacepede, genotype Apogon ruber Lac. Body fairly compressed, sometimes robust, deep to oblong, with large head. Fairly large eye, normally more than interorbital. Mouth large, no canines. Scales large, easily shed. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 6-8 spines. 2 anal spines, rays 8-9. Caudal more or less forked. Mostly brilliantly coloured small fishes, many in the tropical Indo-Pacific, frequent shallow water among weeds, stones and coral. On the Mozambique coast every lump of coral shelters some of these fishes. Colour and markings are a valuable guide to identification. There is sometimes a minute spine in front of the 1st dorsal, difficult to locate. 14 species in our waters, 3 apparently found nowhere else. The extensive illustrations are of more value than any key. A. 1st dorsal of 6 spines. 1. Depth l|-2. («) Black cross-bar below 1st dorsal . (6) Yellow with silvery cross-bars . 2. Depth 21-3. (tf) Dark stripe from eye to pectoral base (6) Dark stripe from eye above pectoral base ... (c) No dark stripes, rosy, dark spot at caudal... B. 1st dorsal of 7-8 spines. 1. No bars or stripes 2. With one or more cross-bars. {a) One bar round caudal base . (ft) One bar above at caudal base (c) A bar from each dorsal . 3. Stripes along body, no cross-bars. (a) Only one stripe . (ft) 2 stripes ... . (c) 3 stripes ... . (d) 5-6 stripes . (c) More than 15 stripes . orbicularis (475) ni gripes (476) warreni (477) sangiensis (478) hyalosoma (479) monochrous (480) fleurieu (481) handaneusis ( 482) taeniatus (483) frenatus (484) ■ ■■quadrifasciatus (485) fuscus (486) ■ ■■novemfasciatus (487) ... multitaeniatus (488) i A'®/' s»iS>'' ai _ 'aA*!w_5-l> • ? _ PLATE 22 471. Cheilodiplenis Unealus, 4 ins. 472. Cheilodipterus caniniis, 5 ins. 475. Apogon orbicularis. 21 ins 476 Apagon mgnpes, 24 ms. 477. Apogon warre/ii, 24 ins. 48 1 . Apogon fleiirieii, 4 ins. 484. Apogon Ircnatiis, 3 ins. 487. Apogon novemfasciatus, 3 ms. 488. Apogon multitaenialiis. 5 ins. 493. Apogoiiichlhys ziduensis, 2J ins. Actual length stated in each ease. I ) f PLATE 23 479. Apogun lii’a/osoina. 4 ins. 482. Apogon hamicmensis, 3 ins. 485. Apogon quadrifasciatus, 3 ins. 489. Archamia niacroptera, 4 ins. 490. Archamia Uneolata. 3 ins. 491. PaniUapogon auritus, 2 ins. 492. Apogonichthys qiieketti, 3 ins. 494. Apogonichihyoides iminolatiis. 3 ins. 499. Acropomci iaponiciim. 4 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES — Family APOGONI DAE 207 [Amia orbicularis.] Literature L 6, 152, 310, 328, 616, 618. 475. APOGON ORBICULARIS (Cuvier). Plate 22, p. 206. Depth I'l-l. D VI ; I 8-9. A II 8-9. L.l. 24. Tr. 2/6. 20 gill-rakers. A dainty fish, attains 3 ins. Not uncommon in the central Indo-Pacific, and reaches Mozambique. Rare in our area, known from Delagoa Bay. The young are transparent. 476. APOGON NIGRIPES Playfair. [Amia nigripes.] Literature L 4, 275. Plate 22, p. 206, male with eggs in mouth. Depth 2. D Vl + I 8. A 11 8. L.l. 23. Tr. 2/7. 23 gill-rakers. Attains 4 ins. So far found only on the cast coast of Africa from Delagoa Bay northwards, also at Zanzibar. Abundant in estuaries, mainly among weeds. The bright pink eggs are shed as a coherent mass, are scooped up by the male when danger threatens (see Plate 22), and deposited when it passes. For lull information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 477. APOf.ON WARRENI Regan. [Amia warreni.] Literature L 4, 52. Plate 22, p. 206. Depth I'l. D VI ' I 9. A II 8. L.l. 25. Tr. 2/6. 7 gill-rakers plus 5-6 spiny knobs. Attains 2| ins. A rare species, one specimen from Kosi Bay in 1908, not found again until recently when others were secured like a glowing ruby, but the colour fades rapidly 478. APOGON .SANGIENSIS Bleeker. [Amia sangiensis.] Literature L 4, 55, 321, 328, 527, 616, 618. Depth 2|. D VI I 9. A II 8-9. L.l. 22-25. Tr. 2/6. 18 gill-rakers. Rosy, with yellow sheen. Attains 3J ins. Central Indo-Pacific, reaches our east coast and as far south as Durban, rare in our area, specimens wanted. 479. APOGON HYALOSO.MA Bleeker. [Amia hyalosoma.] Literature L 87, 275, 328, 616, 618. Plate 23, p. 206. Depth about 2|. D VI -1 8-9. A II 8. L.l. about 25. Tr. 3/6-7. 15 gill-rakers plus 4 rudiments. Attains 5 ins. Indo-Pacific, rare in our area, has been found in Delagoa Bay. 480. APOGON .MO.NOCMROL'S Bleeker. [Amia monochroa.] Literature L 4, 47, 53, 227, 240, 616, 618. Depth 2|. D Vll-j-I 9-10. A II 8-9. L.l. 25-28. Tr. 2^6. 20 gill-rakers. Golden brown above, lighter below. 1st dorsal dusky, other fins light. Attains 4i ins. Central Indo-Pacific, occasional specimens reach Natal. 481. .\POGON FLEURIEU (Lacepede). [Apogon or Amia aureus Blkr., or roseipinnis Cuv.] Literature 1. 4, 19, 47, 53, 128, 151, 152, .321, .328. Plate 22, p. 206. Depth 2.L D VII 19. A II 8. L.l. 25-27. Tr. 2/7. 16 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Occurs through¬ out whole tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches our shores as far south as Natal South Coast, not uncommon in Mozambique waters. 482. APOGON B.4NDANENSIS Bleeker. [Amia bandanensis.] Literature L 86, 240, 310, 616, 618. Plate 23, p. 206. Depth 2|. D VII i l 8-9. A II 8. L.l. about 26. Tr. 2/6. 20 gill-rakers. Attains 31 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, rare in our area, specimens wanted. by blasting in Delagoa Bay. A wonderful sight when alive, after death. Fig. 478. .APOGON SANGIENSIS Blkr. After Bleeker. 208 BONY FISHES— Family APOGONIDAE 483. APOGON TAENIATUS Cuvier. [Amia taeniata. Aniia or Apogon maxinms BIgr., or hifasciatus Rupp.] Literature L 4, 55, 161, 328, 383, 616, 618. Depth 2|. D VII I 1 8-9. A II 8. L.l. 25-28. Tr. 2/7. 7 gill-rakers. Silvery, fins pale or faint rosy. Attains 5 ins. Tropical waters of the central Indo-Pacific, reaches our east coast as far south as Durban, rare in our area. 484. APOGON FRENATUS Valenciennes. [Amia frenatus. Apogon or Amia kallopterus Blkr., or holotaemia Rgn.] Literature L 4, 19, 305, 328, 485, 527, 616, 618. Kig, 483. APOGON TAENIATUS After I3ay Plate 22, p. 206. Depth 3. D VII rl 9-10. A II 8-9. L.l. 25-28. Tr. 2/6. 9 gill-rakers plus 4 rudiments. .Attains 3i ins. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal, not uncommon. 485. APOGON QU.4DRIFASCIATLIS Cuvier. [A/nia cpmdrifascialiis. Amia or Apogon qaiiiqiieslrialus Rgn.] Literature L 4, 152, 321, 328, 527, 616, 618. Plate 23, p. 206. Depth 2^ D VII ; 1 9. A II 8. L.l. 25-27. Tr. 2/6. 14 gill-rakers. Attains 4 ins. Occurs throughout the central Indo-Pacific. Reaches our east coast but rarely, and then not south of Delagoa Bay, 486. APOGON FUSCUS Quoy & Gaimard. [Aniia fiisca. Amia or Apogon sea/ei Fwlr.] Literature L 147, 240. 310, 616, 618. Depth 2?. D VII 1 9. A II 8. L.l. 2.5-27. Tr. 2/6. 14 gill-rakers. .Attains 4 ins. Pinkish grey, stripes bronzy. Fins mainly yellowish. .A central Indo-Pacific species which rarely reaches our area, never south of Durban. 487. APOGON NOVEMFA.SCI ATCS Cuvier. [Amia novemfasciaia. Amia or Apogon melanolaenia Rgn., or taeniophorm Fig. 486. APOGON FUSCUS Q. & G. Actual size 3 ins. Rgn.] Literature L 4. 54, 328, 616, 618. Plate 22, p. 206. and Plate 102, p, 430. Depth 2^ D VII I 8-9. A II 8. L.l. 23-27. Tr. 2 6. 14 gill-rakers. Attains 3 ins. Widely distributed in the whole Indo-Pacific, quite common north of Zululand. Lives under stones even in shallow water, but also extends to quite deep water. Variable in markings and colour. 488. .APOGON MULTITAENI.ATUS Cuvier. [Amia or Lepiclamia multiuieniara. Amia or Apogon natalensis G. & T., or noordzieki Blkr.] Literature L 4, 21, 47, 55, 310, 328, 616, 618. Plate 22, p. 206, Depth 2.L D VII-VIILM 9-10. A II 8-9. L.l. 35-39. Tr. 4,12. 13 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Colour rather variable but mostly reddish with 15-17 darker stripes. One of the largest species, comes from the Indo-Pacific, not uncommon from Natal northwards, occasional specimens reach Pondoland. Genus Archamia Gill, genotype Apogon bleekeri Gnthr. Body fairly compressed, with large head. No canines. First dorsal of 6 spines. Anal of 2 spines and 13-17 rays. Caudal forked. Scales large, easily shed. A tropical Indo-Pacific genus, with 2 species in our area, closely related, distinguished by colour. 489. ARCHA.MIA .M.ACROPTER.A Cuvier. [Apogon or Amia macropfera.] Literature L 4, 152, 205 240, 328, 383, 580, 616, 618. Plate 23, p. 206. Depth 2f. Interorbital less than eye. D VI f-I 9. A II 14-17. L.l. 23-25. Tr. 2/7. 16 gill-rakers plus 2-3 rudiments. Attains 4 ins. Comes from the tropical Indo-Pacific, widespread, reaches as far south as Natal. Not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, mainly in rocky shallow water. A beautiful iridescent fish, almost impossible to reproduce the brilliance of its hues. BONY FISHES — Family APOGON/DAE 209 490. ARCHAMIA LINEOLATA Cuvier. [Apogon or Amia lineolatus.] Literature L 4 14 21 150 152 240, 328, 616, 618. Plate 23, p. 206. ’ ’ ’ ’ Depth 2^-3. Interorbital less than eye. D VI - I 9. .A II 13-17. L.l. 23-26. Tr. 3/7 17 gill-rakers. Colour somewhat variable, cross-bars always present. Attains 3| ins. Widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific, extends down as far as Delagoa Bay, sometimes taken in fair numbers from among weeds in shallow water. Genus Papillapogon Smith, genotype Apogon auriius Valenciennes. Large mouth, no canines. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 7 spines. 2 anal spines. Caudal rounded. Lateral line ends below soft dorsal. An apically hollow cylindrical papilla each side of snout. Only one species. 491. PAPILLAPOGON AURITUS (Valenciennes). [Amia or Apogon or Apogonichthys auriius.] Literature L 86, 154, 275, 328, 616, 618. Plate 23, p. 206. Depth 2,L Interorbital less than eye. D VII • I 8. A II 8. L.l. 23-24, Tr. 2 6. 11 gill-rakers. Attains 2.1 ins. Central Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, nowhere abundant. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Apogonichthys Bleeker, genotype Apogonichthys pcrcHx Blkr. Large mouth, no canines. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 6-7 spines. 2 anal spines. Large scales, easily shed. Caudal rounded. An Indo- Pacific genus with 2 species in our area, easily distinguished. 492. APOGONICHTHYS QUEKETTI (Gilchrist). [Amia or Apogon qiieketti.] Literature L 4 21 27 47. Plate 23, p. 206. ’ ’ ’ Depth 21 D VII : I 8-9. A II 7-8. L.l. 25 27. Tr. 2 .5. II gill-rakers. Attains 4 ins. Found only in our waters from Natal to Mozambique. Closely related to an Indian species eUioti Day. 493. APOGONICHIHYS ZULUENSIS Fowler. Literature L 20. Plate 22, p. 206. Depth 2. L DVI-fI9. A II 8, L.l. with 10 tubes in first portion, interrupted. Tr. 2 5. 10 gill-rakers. Attains 21 ins. St. Lucia to Inhambane, estuaries, among weeds. Genus .Apogonichthyoides nor., type Amia uninolata Smith & Radcliffe. Large mouth, no canines. 2 dorsal fins, the first of 7 spines. 2 anal spines. Caudal truncate. A single species of the Indo-Pacific. Fig. 49.t. APOGOMCHTHYS ZULUEMSIS Fwir. After Fowler. 494. .AI’OGONICH I H\ DIDES L'NINO I A I US (Smith & Radcliffe). [Amia or Apogon or Apogonichthys gardineri Rgn., or iininotatus, or duops Brnrd.] Literature L 4, 21, 96, 478, 518, 618. Plate 23, p. 206. Depth 2j-21. Interorbital less than eye. D VH-|-I 8-9. A II 8. L.l. 24-25. Tr. 2,'6 15 gill-rakers. Colour and markings variable, the ocellus on the side often rather obscure even in live specimens, and mostly fades easily. Attains 3 ins. An Indo-Pacific species which extends as far south as Natal, abundant among weeds in all shallow tropical waters. When chased in shallow water cants over and feigns death. Genus Hynnodus Gilbert, genotype Hynnodus atherinoides GIbt. Elongate body. Large eye. No teeth. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 7 spines. 2 anal spines. An Indo-Pacific deepwater genus with 3 species, 2 in our area, all closely related, in reality probably only one species. A. Pelvic spine about equals eye B, Pelvic spine about 1 eye ... rohustus (495) atherinoides (495a) 210 BONY FISHES— Family SCOMBROPIDAE 495. HYNNODUS ROBUSTUS (Barnard). [Parahynnodus or Epigonus robustus.] Literature L 4, 657a, 665. Fig. 495a. HYNNODUS ATHERINOl DES Gilb. Actual length 7 ins. Depth about 5. Interorbital about f eye. D VJI— I 9-10. A II 9. L.l. 45-49. Tr. 3 11. 21-22 gill- rakers. Orange-brown generally, orange lines along scale rows of flanks. Attains 7 ins. Known from deep water over a wide area of the Indo-Pacific, has been taken in 250 fathoms off the Cape. The pelvic spine, the 2nd anal spine and the spine of the 2nd dorsal are all short. Family SCOMBROPIDAE Fairly elongate body with small thin cycloid scales, easily shed. Large mouth with or without canines, also teeth on palate. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 8-9 feeble spines. 3 anal spines. Vent near anal origin. Moderate sized fishes of deep water of tropical seas, abundant in some parts of the Far East and valuable as food. 3 genera, all in our area. A. 12-13 anal rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. Scomhrops (496) B. 7 anal rays. 1. 9-10 dorsal spines . Neoscomhrops (497) 2. 8 dorsal spines . Howetla (498) Genus Scombrops Schlegel, genotype Scomber boops Houtt. Strong canines present. Dorsal and anal scaly. A few species from deep waters of most tropical seas, 1 in our area. Depth 5. Interorbital | of eye. D VII i I 8-9. All 8-9. L.l. 48. Tr. 3, 1 1. 22 gill-rakers. Pale brown-yellow in life. Attains 9 ins. First taken in 460 fathoms off Cape Point, has since been found in the Pacific also. Pelvic spine, 2nd anal spine and that to 2nd dorsal all about as long as eye. 495a. HYNNODUS ATHERINOIDES Gilbert. [Hyiinodiis megalops Smth. & Rdcif. Sceplarias fragilis Jord. & Jord.] Literature L 90, 458, 581, 618, 657a. Fig. 495. HYNNODUS ROBUSTUS (Brnrd.). Actual length 6 ins. PLATE 24 5()0. Apoiecms iiii’er, above at 15 ins., below at 3 ins. 527. A/eclis ciliaris, 4 ins. 528. Alectis indicus, 9 ins. 532. Decapterus hjanfi, 7 ins. 535. Ncmcrates ductor, 7 ins. 536. Zonichthys myrofasciata, 1 ins. 543. Eiagatis hipinniihtliis. 24 ins. 547. Pomatonms sahator. 22 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES — Family SCOMBROPt DAE 211 496. SCOMBROPS DOBIUS Gilchrist. Literature L 4, 39. Fig. 496. SCOMBROPS DUBIUS Glch. Actual length 10 ins. Depth about 3.J. Eye 1| times interorbital. D VIIl ^ I 13-14. A 111 13. L.l. about 55. Tr. about 6 14. 13-15 gill-rakers. Canines at front and side of jaws. Dull greyish. Attains at least 20 ins. Found in South Alrica from the Cape to Delagoa Bay in 10-200 fathoms. Not common in our area, and mostly small fishes. Quite likely the same as Scomhrops hoops (Hout.) of Japan. Genus Neoscombrops Gilchrist, genotype the single species. Canines in front but not at side of upper jaw. Dorsal and anal naked. 497. NEOSCOMBROP.S ANNECTENS Gilchrist. Literature L 4, 39. Fig. 497. REOSCOMBROPS ANNECTE^S Glch. Actual length 6 ins Depth about 3]. Interorbital less than eye. F) IX-X -1 9. .A III 7. L.l. about 46. Tr. about 4 14. 16 gill-rakers. Canines present, but none at side of upper jaw. Dull pearly. .Attains 7 ins. So far found only olT Natal in 60-300 fathoms. Genus Howella Ogilby, genotype Howella hrodiei Ogilby. Large eye and mouth, no canines. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 8 spines. 3 anal spines. Accessory fine simple raylets between the normal rays of the dorsal and anal fins. Lateral line interrupted between the dorsals. Preopercle with 2 spines. Only 2 species known from deep water of the Southern Hemisphere, one in our area. 212 BONY FISHES— Families ACROPOMIDAE, APOLECTIDAE and CARANGIDAE 498. HOWELLA SHERBORNI (Norman). [Rhectogramma slierhorni.] Literature L 619, 655. Depth 3}. Interorbital less than eye. DVlll + 19. A 111 7. L.l. 36, interrupted. Tr. 4 7. 22 gill-rakers. Dark-brown with silvery gloss. Attains 3 ins. 250-400 fathoms off the west coast of South Africa. Possibly not different from Ho'xella hrodiei Ogilby from off Lord Howe Island, Pacific. Rare. Family ACROPOMIDAE Fairly elongate body with small ctenoid scales, easily shed. Mouth moderate, with fine teeth in bands in jaws and on palate, also small canines in front of jaws. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 7 9 weak spines. 3 anal spines. Vent far forward near pelvic base. .A single genus, .Vcropoma Schlegel, genotype Acropoma japonicwn Gunther. 499. .ACROPOALA JAPOMCUM Gunther. [Acropoma cynodon Rgn.] Literature L 4. 39, 572, 695. Plate 23, p. 206. Depth about 3.’~3j. Interorbital less than eye. D VII IX- 1 10. .A 111 7. L.l. about 48. Tr. about 3 10. 14-16 gill-rakers. Red above, silvery from middle of side. Fins reddish. Attains 7 ins. Known from Japan and South .Africa, off Natal in 130-250 fathoms, rare. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family APOLECTIDAE Deep body with small scales. .A few enlarged scutes at end of lateral line. Pelvics absent in adult. Teeth feeble. Dorsal and anal spines rudimentary. .A single genus, .Apolectus C. & V., genotype Stromatcus niger Bloch. Only one species. 500. .APOLECTUS NIGER (Bloch). [Parastromateas or Eormio niger.] German-fish (Durban). Makulu (Native, P.E.A.). Literature L. 4, 14, 19, 117, 154, 328. Plate 24, p. 210, juvenile and adult. Depth about 2. D Il-VI 42-46. .A II 35-40, spines feeble or absent. 13-14 gill-rakers. L.l. about IK). .Attains 30 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches Natal, but rare there. .An excellent food-fish, only rarely takes a bait. Swims on its side a few feet down, looks like a large silvery disc, and moves quickly. A large shoal is a beautiful sight. Experienced netters watch for them on shallow banks and sometimes till a boat in one haul. At times abundant in Delagoa Bay. Family CARANGIDAE KINGFISHES: ALBACORES: MAASBANKER: QLEENFISHES More or less compressed body, sometimes naked, usually with small thin cycloid scales, those on the lateral line sometimes enlarged and spiny. Mouth moderate, teeth usually feeble, sometimes absent. Front 2 anal spines characteristic in being separate from rest of fin. Detached (inlets behind dorsal and anal sometimes present. Caudal powerful, forked, with slender peduncle. Mostly swift carnivorous fishes, some reaching a large size, found in all but the coldest seas. Many are famous game fishes, most are good eating, but in our area only the Maasbanker or Horse Mackerel (Trachurus, No. 501), occurs in such numbers as to be of much economic significance, 16 genera are accepted as present in our area. BONY FISHES— Family CARANGfDAE 213 A. Large scutes on at least part of L.l. 1. Whole L.l. with scutes . 2. Scutes on hinder part of L.l. only. (a) No finlets behind dorsal. (i) Scales distinct. (x) Under operculum a groove in shoulder girdle, (a) Hind margin of scutes smooth (/3) Hind margin of scutes denticulate ... (r) No groove in shoulder girdle. (a) A deep groove in abdomen ... (jS) No deep groove in abdomen ... (ii) Scales rudimentary (scutes feeble). (.v) Dorsal and anal low . (y) Dorsal and anal filamentous . {h) One finlet behind dorsal (c) 6-9 finlets behind dorsal Trachurus (501) Selar (502-503) Branchialepes (504) Atropus (505) Caranx (506-525) Vomer (526) Alectis (527-528) Decapterus (529-533) Megalaspis (534) B. No enlarged scutes on 1..1. (See (ii) above). 1. Soft dorsal and anal continuous. (а) Anal shorter than dorsal. (i) One curve in L.l. (.v) Dorsal spines separate (y) Dorsal spines connected, (a) Snout blunt (^) Snout normal (ii) l,.l. irregularly wavy (б) Anal and dorsal about equal .. 2. One detached finlet 3. Several partly detached finlets Naucrates (535) Zonichthys (536) Serioh (537-538) flypucanthus (539) Trachinolus (540-542) Elagatis (543) Chorinemus ( 544-546) Genus 'Frachurus Linnaeus, genotype Scomber trachurus Linn. Rather elongate body with small scales. Whole of L.l. with large scutes. Large adipose eyelid. .A forwardly directed spine before dorsal. At most 3 species, characteristic of the Atlantic, only 1 on our coasts. 501. TRACHURUS TRACHURUS Linnaeus. [Trachurus capensis Cast., or semispinosus Nillson.] .Maas- banker (S.\.). Morse Mackerel. Literature L 4, 19. 47, 105, 157, 568, 623, 655. Plate 21, p. 203. Depth about 4. D 1-i-Vlll 1 30-34. A 11^1 27-30. 50 gill-rakers. L.l. about 75, about 40 with spines. Attains 30 ins. Occurs in most parts of the Atlantic and penetrates round as far as Delagoa Bay, down to 200 fathoms, but is not abundant east of the Cape. On the west coast large numbers are captured. Valued as food when fresh, many are canned, smoked or otherwise preserved. Excellent bait. Genus Selar Bleeker, genotype Caranx hasselti Sleeker. Fairly elongate body with small scales. Teeth feeble. Enlarged scutes on hind part of L.l. Breast scaly. Characterised by a deep groove in shoulder girdle below the operculum each side of isthmus. 2 species in our area. A. 40-46 scutes . ■■■ kalla (502) B. 30-38 scutes ... . ■■ ••• ••• crumenophthalmus (503) 502. SELAR KALLA (Cuvier). [Caranx kalla. Selar brevis Blkr.] Literature L 4, 14, 47, 157, 328, 540, 552, 623. Depth variable with age, 2.(-3.I. D VIII- I 23-24. A II- 1 18-20. 40-46 scutes in L.l. Curved part of L.l. half length of straight part. 27 gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins. Greenish silvery with yellow reflections. A black spot on opercle. Caudal yellow. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacific, rare in our area, but reaches Natal. 17 214 BONY FISHES— Family CARANGIDAE 503. SELAR CRLUVIENOPHTHALMUS (Bloch). [Curanx crumenoplit/ialmus, or maiiritianus q & 0- Selar or Trachurops mauritianus. Caranx macroplulwlimis Rupp.] Literature L 4, 117, 147, 15 1, 328, 46l> 623, 655. Depth about 3^. D 1 ; Vlll • I 23-26. A 11 1 20-23. 30-38 scutes in L.l. 23-26 gill- rakers. Attains 14 ins. Blue-silvery, lighter below. At most a faint opercular spot. Caudal yellow, in all warm seas, has been found in Natal. Genus Branchialepes Fowler, genotype Selar tabulae Brnrd. Closely resembles Selar, but differs in the much longer dorsal and anal, and in having the margins of the lateral line scutes denticulate. One species. 504. BRANCHIALEPES TABLLAE (Barnard). [Selar tabulae.] Literature L 4. Depth 3.V. D I Vlll ■ 1 38. A ll-fl 30. 39 scutes on L.l., edges denticulate. 55 gill-rakers. Teeth feeble, in one series in jaws. Breast scaly. Silvery, darker above. Dark spot on opercle. Only one specimen 16 ins. long from Table Bay. More wanted. Genus .4tropus Cuvier, genotype Brama atropus Bloch. Deep highly eompressed body with small scales. breast naked. Scutes on hind part of L.l. In lower surface of belly a deep longitudinal groove into which the pelvics fold. Teeth feeble. One species only. 505. .ATROPUS .\TROPlJS( Bloch). [Cituki atropus. Caranx atropus or atropos.] Literature L 19, 127, 247, 328, 623. Depth 2-2J. D 1-fVl II 4-1 22-23. DlI -118. 30-35 scutes in L.l. Attains 15 ins. Blue-green with silvery reflections. Dark opercular spot in adults. The young are banded, without opercular spot. Widespread in the warmer Incio-Pacific, found in our area in Natal. Known as Kuvveh in the East Indies. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Caranx Lacepede. genotype Scomber carangus Bloch. Compressed body, scaly. Breast scaly or naked. Usually a horizontal forwardly directed spine before dorsal. Scutes on hind part of lateral line. No finlets, no groove on abdomen or shoulder girdle. Numerous species, many probably artificial, and identification is difficult even for the expert, partly because important features like fins and teeth change with growth. Some are, however, recognisable at a glance when alive or fresh. The Kingfishes are famous game fishes, some attaining a fair size. The young abound in estuaries and other sheltered waters of the tropics and are good bail. 20 species are at present accepted as being in our area, mostly found in Natal and northwards, others certainly await discovery. A. Breast completely scaly right across. 1. 8-12 dark cross-bars . specio.sus (506) 2. No cross-bars, or less than 8. (a) Only a single row of teeth in each jaw. (i) Less than 30 armed scutes in L.l . adscenc/onis (507) (ii) More than 30 armed scutes in L.l. (.x) Pectoral about head length . djeciaha (508) (y) Pectoral shorter than head . microbrachium (509) Fig. 505. ATROPUS ATROPVS m.). After VX'eber & de Beaufort. Below, abdominal groove. Fig. .so.t. SELAR C RU M ENOPHTH ALMUS AM.). After Dav PLATE 25 506. Carunx speciosus. 10 ins. 508. Caranx djedaba, 10 ins. 511. Caranx sexfascialns, I 5 jns 18 ins. 522. Caranx fuhoguuatus, 12 ins. 539. hypacamhns owia, above, juvenile, 2J 542. Trachinoius hlochii, 20 ins. Actual length stated in each case." 5 1 2. Caranx sicdlalus, ins., below 24 ins. BONY FISHES— Family CARANGIDAE 215 (ft) A single row of teeth in each jaw but a cluster at symphysis (c) Teeth in one row in lower jaw, in upper in narrow band with outer enlarged series. (i) 15-17 anal rays (ii) 18-20 anal rays. (.y) D I ; VII • I. Dark spots on body . (v) D I i VIII -I. No dark spots on body ... ((-/) Teeth in villiform bands in each jaw. (i) 12-15 feeble scutes on L.l. (ii) 25-30 feeble scutes on L.l. . B. Breast mostly naked, sometimes an isolated scaly patch before pelvics. 1. Not more than 30 armed scutes in L.l. («) Curved part of L.l. at least I i times length of straight part. (i) 16 17 gill-rakers . . (ii) 23-25 gill-rakers . (ft) Curved part of L.l. shorter than U times straight part. (i) Front dorsal soft rays much longer than head. (.v) 20 feeble scutes on L.l. (r) 25 scutes on L.l . (ii) Front dorsal soft rays not or barely longer than head. (,v) Teeth in lower jaw in one series ... {}') Teeth in lower jaw in villiform band. (a) No opercular spot (8) Distinct opercular spot. t Depth 2? . . tt Depth 3] . . 2. More than 30 armed scutes in L.l. Ui) Curved part of L.l. about 5 of straight part . (ft) Curved part of L.l. about as long as straight part mate (510) sexfasciatus (511) steUatus (512) melampygus (513) compressus (514) equula (515) chrysophrys (516) malaharicus (517) armatus (518) clinema (519) ignohilis (520) gymnostethoides (521) jalvoguttalus (522) ferdau (523) hippos (524) ohlongiis (525) 506. CAR.ANX SF’ECIOSHS (Forskal). [Gnathanodon speciosus.] Kingfish. Cavalla or Cavalho (Latin races). L iterature L 4, 47. 113, 275, 328, 461, 540, 623. Plate 25, p. 215. Depth about 2.L D 1 Vlll I 18-21. A II ■ 1 15-17. 20 gill-rakers. No teeth. 10-16 very feeble scutes on L.l. Breast scaly. Scales small. Attains 40 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Zululand. Not uncommon in Delagoa Bay. .Mways easy to recognise. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 507. C.\R.\NX AI>SCF.NSI()NIS (Osbeck). [Carun.x dente.x Bloch, or analis Cuv., or natalensis G. & T.] Kingfish. Cavally or Cavallyjack. Literature L 4, 44, 47, 127, 247, 504, 537, 655. Depth about 3. D 1 VIII I 24-27. A 11 1 20-23. .About 25 gill-rakers. Curved part of L.l. j longer than straight part. 23-29 rather small scutes on L.l. Pectoral slightly longer than head, increases with age. Breast scaly. A single row of teeth in each jaw. Bluish above, silvery below . A dark blotch on opercle. Caudal yellow. Attains 36 ins. Widespread in all tropical waters, has been found at the Cape and in Natal. 508. CAR.ANX D.IED.ABA (Forskal). [Caran.x djeddaha.] Kingfish. Cavally. Yellowtail (Delagoa)- Literature L 4, 14, 19, 47, 113, 328, 589, 623. Plate 25, p. 215. Depth about 3. D 1 - Vlll • I 22-26. A 11 I 19-22. About 27 gill-rakers. Curved part of L.l. much shorter than straight part, 45-58 armed scutes on latter. Teeth in a single series in each jaw. Breast scaly- Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the Indian Ocean and central Pacific, not uncommon in Natal and further north. 216 BONY FISHES— Family CARANGIDAE 509. CARANX MICROBRACHIUM Fowler. Kingfish. Literature L 19. Depth 2?. D l + VlIl+l 22-24. A II rl 19. 26 gill-rakers. 41-42 scutes on L.I., curved part half of straight. Teeth in one series in each jaw. Breast scaly. Only 2 specimens, 4-5 ins- long, from Natal. DilTers from No. 508 in the shorter pectoral, possibly the young of that species. 510. CARANX MATE (Cuvier). [Caranx or Selar affinis Rupp. Atu/e Iwulini Jordan.] Kingfish. Literature L 4, 19, 161, 328, 461, 552, 589, 623. Depth about 3j. D 1 i VIII - 1 23-24. A II : I 19-21. 40-45 scutes. Breast sealy. Teeth in a single row at side of eaeh jaw, a cluster of fine teeth at symphysis. Attains 12 ins. Bluish olive above, silvery below. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacilic, has been found in Natal, but rare in our area. 511. CARANX SEXFASCIATUS Quoy & Gaimard. [Caranx forsteri Cuv.j Often confused with Caranx hippos Linn. (No. 524). Fig. 510. CARANX MATE Cnw. After Day. Kingfish. Cavally. Literature L 4, 19, 43, 147, 157, 328, 383, 527, 589, 623. Plate 25, p. 215. Depth about 2|. D 1 - VllI ■ I 19-22. A II \ 15-17. About 15 gill-rakers. 30-33 scutes. Breast scaly. One row of teeth in lower jaw', in a band in upper with outer row larger. Attains 40 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as the Kei. A fine sporting fish, easily recognised by the dark upper, and yellow lower, lobes of caudal. 512. C.4RANX STELL.\TUS Eyedoux & Souleyet. Kingfish. Literature L 19,86, 157, 317, 600,623. Plate 25, p. 215. Depth about 2|. D I ■ Vll - I 24-25. A II • I 18-20. 17-18 gill-rakers. 30-35 scutes. Breast scaly. One row of teeth in lower jaw, in upper in a band with outer row enlarged. Attains 27 ins. Not abundant anywhere, but widespread in the Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay, identifiable at a glance. 513. C.AR.ANX MEL.4MPYGUS Cuvier. Kingfish. Literature L 4, 47, 157, 317, 328, 461, 623. Depth about 25. D I • VIIT- 1 22-25. A II 1 18-20. .About 18 gill-rakers. Curved part of lateral line about j shorter than straight part, which has 34-38 scutes. Breast scaly. Pectoral longer than head. Blue-green above, silvery below. Pectorals yellow. The young have cross-bars. Attains 12 ins. Widespread m the Indo-Pacific, rare in our area, found in Natal and further north. Often confused with No. 512. 514. C.4R.4NX COMPRESSUS Day. Kingfish. Literature L 298, 328, 623. Depth 3]. D VI 11 1 22-24. A II- I 19-20. 12-15 feeble .scutes. Breast scaly. Fine teeth in narrow- bands. Bluish above, the young with cross-bars. Attains 18 ins. .4 rather rare species from the Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban. 515. CARANX EQUULA Schlegel. Kingfish. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 188, 231, 589, 623. Depth about 2. D I ■ VllI — 1 23-25. A Il-rl 21-23. About 20 gill-rakers. Curved part of L.l. longer than straight part, which has about 27 feeble scutes. Breast scaly. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw. Pectoral about head length. Soft dorsal and anal low. Greenish above, young with 5-6 wide darker cross-bars. Attains 10 ins. A strange migrant, known from the East Indies and Japan. Has been found on our south coast, also in Natal. BONY FISHES— Family CAR A NG! DAE 217 S16. CARANX CHRYSOPHRYS (Val.). Kingfish. [Caranx chrysophryoules Blkr., or coeruleopinnatus Rupp.] Literature L 4, 16, 19, 20, 43, 203, 383, 540, 541, 548, 589, 623. Depth about 2. D I i VIll ! I 18-20. A H i 1 16-17. 16-17 gill-rakers. Curved part of L.l. much longer than straight part, which has about 25 feeble scutes. Breast naked. Pectoral longer than head. Soft dorsal and anal falcate, not high. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw. Slaty green above, a diffused blotch on opercle. Attains 14 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacilic, reaches Natal, but is rare in our area. 517. CARANX MALABARICUS (Bloch). Kingfish. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 127, 328, 589, 623. Depth about 2. D 1 t Vlll : 1 21-22. All fll*^-'9. About 24 gill-rakers. About 25 feeble scutes. Breast naked. Fine teeth in bands in both jaws. Silvery blue-green. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacilic, has been found in Natal, juven¬ iles not uncommon in Delagoa Bay. Kig. 517. CARAl^X MALABARICUS (Bl.). After Day. 518. CARANX ARMATUS (Forsk.). [Caranx ciliaria Rupp., or plumheus Jordan.] Kingfish. Fig. 518. CARANX ARMATUS Forsk. Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 2. D l-f-Vlll-rl 20-21. A 1I-f1 16-17. 21 gill-rakers. Curved part of L.l. about 1] times straight part, which has about 20 feeble scutes. Breast naked. Dorsal and anal soft rays filamentous, half body length in adults. Pectoral much longer than head. Fine teeth in narrow bands in each jaw. Blue-green above, opercular spot obscure. Caudal yellow. Attains 24 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal, but is rare. A handsome deep unmistakable fish with its filamentous dorsal. The young have 6 dark cross-bars, fade with age. 519. CAR.ANX DINEM.V Sleeker. [Caranx carangoic/es BIkr.j Kingfish. Literature L 19, 203, 247, 520. CARANX IGNOBILIS (Forskal). [Caranx sansun Rupp.] Kingfish. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 113, 461, 589, 623. Depth about 2] or more slender. D 1 Vlll * 1 19-21. A II 1 16-17. About 15 gill-rakers. Breast naked, few scales before pelvics. Scutes difficult to count, about 27-30. A single row of teeth in each jaw. Olive-green above, fins yellow. No opercular spot. Attains 30 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal and Delagoa Bay. 613,623. , Depth about 2J. D 1 VIll • 1 18-21. A 11 I 17-18. About 18 gill-rakers. Curved part of L.l. about |i times as long as straight part, which has about 25 scutes. Breast naked. Pectoral in adult longer than head. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw. Greenish above, an obscure opercular blotch. The young have cross-bars. Attains 30 ins. Nowhere abundant, but is widespread in the Indo-Pacific. Has been found in Natal and Delagoa Bay. Fig. 520. C.^R4,VA' IGNOBILIS Forsk. .Actual length 6 ins. 218 BONY FISHES- Family CARANGIDAE 521. CARANX GYMNOSTETHOIDES Bleeker. Kingfish. Literature L 72, 203, 247, 328, 461, 600, 623, Body rather elongate, depth 3~3J. D 1 • VIl-VIll - I 29-31. A II I 24-26. Curved and straight parts of L.I. about equal, latter with about 24 small scutes. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw. Breast naked. Pectoral longer than head. Snout about twice eye diameter. Greenish above, no opercular spot. Attains 30 ins. Rather rare but widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Algoa Bay, and in Delagoa Bay. 522. CAR.ANX FULVOGUTTATUS (Forskal). [Carwrv hleekeri Klunz., Carangoidcs fu/Yoguttatus.] Kingfish. Literature L 86, 113, 157, 623. Plate 25, p. 215. Depth about 2|. D I + Vlll 1 26-28. AMI 22-25. 15-20 very feeble scutes. Breast naked. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw. Colour somewhat variable, fins blue, greenish or yellow, spots on body brassy to blue. Body always blue above, sometimes also lower parts. Attains 24 ins. A not very abundant species, easily recognisable, widespread in the tropical Indian Ocean, extends to Natal, but rare in our area. 523. C.AR.ANX FERD.AU (Forskal). Kingfish. Literature L 19, 113, 150, 275, 328, 461, 613, 623. Depth about 3]. D 1 + VI 1-1 26-30. A 11^1 22-26. 18 gill-rakers. Scutes variable, 18-28, appear to diminish with age. Fine teeth in bands in each jaw. Breast naked. Greenish blue above, young with 6-7 cross-bars. Fins yellowish. Attains 30 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, has been found from .Algoa Bay northwards. 524. C.AR.ANX HIPPOS (Linnaeus). [Caran.\ carangus Blch., or xanihopygiis Val.] Kingfish. Cavallv Literature L 4, 19, 47, 118, 328, 383. 655. Fig. 524. C.4R/I.\X HIPPOS (Linn.). Actual length 9 ins. BONY FISHES— Family CARANGIDAE 219 Depth about 2i. D I r VIl-VIIl ; I 20-22. A II I 16-18. About 15 gill-rakers. About 33-38 scutes. Breast naked, but a scaly patch before pelvics. One row of teeth in lower jaw, in a hand in upper with outer enlarged row. Silvery blue-green above. Young with cross-bars. No or small opercular spot. Attains 30 ins. Widespread in all tropical waters, extends as far south as Pondoland. 525. CARANX OBLONGUS (Cuvier). Kingfish. Literature L 19, 157, 247, 328, 600, 623. Depth about 2.1. D I ■ VIII • I 20-22. A ll-(-l 18-20. 18 gill-rakers. Curved part of L.l. about as long as straight part, which has 35-40 scutes. Breast naked. Fine teeth in bands in each Jaw. Pectoral much longer than head. Blue-silvery above, the young with cross-bars. No opercular spot. Attains 15 ins. Nowhere abundant, widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal and Delagoa Bay. Genus Vomer Cuvier, genotype Vomer hrowiii Cuv. Deep compressed body with sharp edge to abdomen. Dorsal and anal low. Scales rudimentary. Teeth feeble. Fishes of warm seas, one in our area. 526. VOMER GIIiBICEPS Gilchrist & Thompson. [Vomer dorsalis Gill. Selene gihhiceps.] Lookdown or Ploughfish (America). Literature L 4, 35. Depth about IJ. D VII IX FI 22-25. A II • I 19-20. About 30 gill-rakers. About 20 feeble scutes. Teeth minute. Mainly silvery. Attains 15 ins. Tropical Atlantic, found at Walfish Bay, rare in our area. Genus .Alectis Rafmesque, genotype Galliis virescens Lacepede. Deep compressed body with filamentous dorsal and anal fins. Scales rudimentary. Teeth feeble. A few species of warm seas, 2 in our area. These fishes undergo considerable changes with growth. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 527. .ALECTIS CILI.VRIS (Bloch). [Blepharis ciliaris.] Threadfish. Lintvis. Literature L 4, 14, 118, 151, 461, 540, 589, 623. Plate 24, p. 210. Depth about 1-1 1- D \'l I 18-22. A II I 15-17. Front anal spines vanish with growth. .About 14 gill-rakers. 10-15 feeble scutes. Attains 10 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, not abundant anywhere but often preserved because of the curious shape and long fins, known from the Cape eastwards along our coasts. 528. Al.ECTIS INDICUS (Ruppell). [C«r«fl.v ga//M.v Bloch. Scyris indicus.] Literature L 4, 14, 118, 151, 157, 328, 589, 623. Plate 24, p. 210. Depth about I.L D VI • 1 19. A 11 - I 16. Front dorsal and anal spines vanish with growth. About 20 gill-rakers. 8-12 feeble scutes. Attains 5 ft. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, rarely found south of Natal, more abundant northwards. Flesh palatable. 220 BONY FISHES— Family CA RANG! DAE Genus Decapterus Bleeker, genotype Cciranx kurra Cuv. Rather elongate fusiform body. Easily recognised in having a single finlet behind dorsal and anal. Adipose eyelid present. Small scales. Found in all warm seas. The species are all much alike, most of them “ Museum ” species. This group needs revision and study of adequate fresh material. 5 species described from our area. They are known as “ Mackerel Scads in America. .A. Less than 30 gill-rakers ... B. 30 or more gill-rakers. 1. 40-45 scutes. (a) .30 gill-rakers (h) 3.‘'-40 gill-rakers ... 2. 27-33 scutes. («) 35 gill-rakers (b) 30 gill-rakers sanctae-hdenae (529) russellii (530) punc talus (531) lajcing (532) muroadsi (533) Eor full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 529. DECAPTERUS SANCTAE-HEEEN.AE (Cuvier). Literature L 4, 14, 358, 648, 655. Depth about 4. D Vlll+I 30-31-1. A 11-1 26-28-1. 28 gill-rakers. About 30 scutes. Breast scaly. Pectoral shorter than head. Silvery blue-green above. Dark spot on opercle. E'ins greyish- .Attains 14 ins. An .Atlantic species which e.xtends to Natal. 530. DEC.APTERUS RUSSELLII (Ruppell). [Caranx or Decapterus kurra Cuv.] I.ajang (East Indies). Literature L 4, 151, 157, 540, 580, 623. Depth about 5. D I - VI 114 I 30-32 ■ 1. A 11-1 24-27-1. About 30 gill-rakers. 40-45 scutes. Teeth in one row in each jaw, some on vomer and palatines. Pectoral shorter than head. Silvery blue-green, fins yellow or reddish. Dark opercular spot. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal, rare. 531. DECAPTERUS PUNCT.ATUS (Agassiz). Literature L 16, 20, 648, 655. Depth about 43. D VIII ■ 1 27-31-1. A 11- 1 24-27 • 1. 35-40 gill-rakers. 40-44 scutes. Pectoral shorter than head. Teeth feeble. Slaty green, fins greyish. Dark spot on opercle. Attains 12 ins. A tropical Atlantic species that has been found in Natal, rare. 532. DEC.APTERUS L.AJ.ANG Bleeker. Lajang (East Indies). Literature L 4, 67, 219, 589, 623 Plate 24, p. 210. Depth about 6. D 1- VllI - I 34-37 -1. A II - I 28-30-hl. About 35 gill-rakers. 28-30 scutes. Teeth feeble. Attains 11 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found from Mossel Bay eastwards, not uncommon. Has been taken alive at East London and kept in the aquarium there (January, 1948), is pearl silvery on sides. Usually cast ashore when cold water appears. 533. DEC.APTERUS MURO.ADSI (Schlegel). [Decapterus imicrosoma Blkr.j Literature L 4 19 'S4 190, 203, 589. ’ ‘ ‘ ’ Depth about 5. D I-VIII - I 28-33 1. A II -I 26-30-1. About 30 gill-rakers. 27-33 scutes. Teeth feeble. Pectoral shorter than head. Slaty green above, dark spot on opercle. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the warmer Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal and Delagoa Bay. Genus Megalaspis Bleeker, genotype the single species. Eirm torpedo-shaped body tapering markedly to a thin peduncle. Small scales. L.l. with short curve, straight part with large scutes. Teeth feeble. 6-9 finlets behind dorsal and anal. Only one species of the Indo-Pacific, an important food-fish of tropical areas. BONY FISHES— Family CARANGIDAE 221 534. MEGALASPIS CORDYEA (Linn). [Scomber or Megalaspis rottleri Bloch.] Torpedo. Tetenkel or Panga (East Indies). Literature L 4, 14 19 21, 47, 105, 125, 589, 613, 623. ’ Depth about 3^4. D 1 : VIII ■ I 10-11 r7-9. A 11 1 8-10 i 6-8. About 20 gill-rakers. 50-58 spiny scutes. Attains 20 ins. Widespread and abundant in the tropical Indo- Pacific, reaches as far south as Algoa Bay. Abundant in Delagoa Bay, at times taken in numbers by shore nets. Travels in large shoals near the surface. Characteristic appearance, with torpedo-shaped body, and pec¬ torals extended like vanes, as shown in figure. Genus Naucrates Rafinesque, genotype Naucrates fanfarm Raf. Elongate rounded body with small scales. L.l. without scutes, ends in a keel. Teeth feeble. A few separated low dorsal spines. One species. 535. NAUCRATES DUCTOR (Linn.). [Naucrates fanfarus K'dA., ox indicus Pilotfish. Lootsman. Romero (America). Literature L 4, 37, 105, 328, 580, 600, 623, 655. Plate 24, p. 210. Depth about 4]. D Ill-V-j-l 26-28. A II ; I 16-18. About 16 gill-rakers. Attains at least 24 ins. Found in all but the coldest seas. The young are spiny, quite different from the adult, and were once regarded as a separate species. The habits of this fish have attracted much attention, for the young shelter in floating weeds and often even among the deadly tentacles of large Jelly-fishes. Adults commonly seek the company of Sharks, often several to one Shark, and even the most voracious do not appear to molest the Pilotfish. It is possible that their flesh may be unwholesome but no information on that point is available. While the Pilotfish will eat fragments that fall away when the Shark feeds, its main food appears to be the excrement of the Shark, which it consumes eagerly. Occasional specimens of this species have been known to accompany ships, one famous fish known as “ Pelorus Jack ” would meet ships at a certain point in a New Zealand strait, would go ahead through the strait, and then leave always at the same place. Nobody knows for certain why this fish behaves like this. It might prove to be easily domesticated. Genus Zonichthys Swainson, genotype Scomber fasciatus Bloch. Fairly elongate body, with blunt snout. No scutes. Teeth feeble. A few species from warm seas. 536. ZONICHTHYS NIGROFASCIATA (Ruppell). [Serlola nigrofasciata or hinotata Cuv., or ruppeUii Cuv.. or intermedia T. & S.j Literature L 4, 151, 157, 188, 328, 589, 623. Plate 24, p. 210. Depth about 3. D 1-fV-Vl ■ I 31-35. A II I 15-17. About 8 gill-rakers. Attains at least 25 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific from the surface down to 60 fathoms. Nowhere abundant, has been found as far south as Algoa Bay. Genus Scriola Cuvier, genotype Caranx dumerili Risso. Elongate moderately compressed body, with small scales. A forwardly directed horizontal spine before a 1st dorsal of 6-7 spines. No scutes. Teeth feeble- Powerful fishes of all but very cold water, some famous game-fishes, most good eating. 2 in our area, easily distinguished. 537. SERIOLA LALANDI Valenciennes. [Seriola lalandii. Scomber capensis Pappe. Lichia pappei Cast.] Albacore. Yellowtail. (icelstert. .AIfkoord. Amberfish (America). Literature L 4, 157, 209, 251, 655, Fig. 5.t4. MEGALASPIS CORDYLA (Linn.). Actual length 8 ins. Fig. 537. SERIOLA LALANDI Val. Actual length 36 ins. 222 BONY FISHES— Family CARANGIDAE Depth about 4-4,1. D 1 : Vl-Vll-rl 32-34. A II ■ I 20-25. 14-15 gill-rakers. Most of operele not scaled, but cheek scaly. Front anal spines disappear with age. Attains at least 6 ft. A brilliant fish, blue above, fins mainly yellow. Sometimes a broad yellow stripe from head to tail below the blue. An Atlantic species that penetrates as far as Pondoland. One of the finest game fishes, prefers a moving lure. Abundant about False Bay at the Cape during the summer months. 538. SERIOLA BON.\RIENSIS Cuv. Yellowtail. Literature L 4, 21, 157, 580. Plate 26, p. 226. Depth about 3. D I ; VII : I 29-31. A II I 18-21. About 17 gill-rakers. Cheek and upper part of operele scaly. Attains 22 ins. An Atlantic species which has been found at Algoa Bay and Durban, rare in our area. Genus Hypacanthus Rafinesque, genotype Centrouotus vadigo Lac. Fairly compressed body with minute scales. Lateral line curves up and down, irregular. Dorsal spines more or less separated. One species. 539. HYPACANTHUS AIVII.U (Linn.). [Porthnieus argenteus Blkr. Licitici amia.] Lecrvis. Leerfish. Garrick (Natal). Literature L 4, 19, 110, 157, 201, 580, 655. Plate 25, p. 215, juvenile and adult. Depth 3-4. D I • VII - I 19-21. A ll-fl 19-21. 7-9 gill-rakers. Teeth feeble. Grows to at least 6 ft An eastern Atlantic species, found on our coast as far as Delagoa Bay. The young are different from the adult (see Plate 25), and were once described as a separate species. Porthmeus argenteus Blkr. This is one of the finest game fishes, fighting fiercely to the end. Prefers live or moving bait, enters estuaries, and may often be .seen in pursuit of Mullet on the surface. There is much controversy among anglers as to whether this species “ Scales the bait ” deliberately. As the Leervis always seizes a fish across the middle and then works it about in the jaws until head-on for easy swallowing, this “ Scaling " may be incidental. The flesh of larger specimens is coarse and dry. For habits of juveniles see Appendix. Genus Trachinotus Lacepede, genotype Scomber fedeatus Forsk. Oval body with small .scales. Snout rather blunt. Teeth feeble. No keel on tail. In all warm seas. 3 species in our area, all shapely, easily distin¬ guished. 540. TRACHINOTUS RUSSELl.II Cuv. [Trachynotus ohlongus Cuv.] Moonfish. Ladvtish Literature L 4, 47, 154, 328, 623. Fig. 540. TRACHINOTUS RUSSELLII Cuv. Actual length 12 ins. Depth about 25. D M VI - I 22-23. A II • I 2(C21. About 12 gill-rakers. Attains 24 ins. Throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon in Natal and Delagoa Bay, occasionally reaches East London Fights gamely on light tackle. Flesh good. BONY FISHES— Family CARANGIDAE 223 541. TRACHINOTHS BAILLONl Lac. Kuweh (East Indies). Literature L 19, 128, 328, 613, 623. Depth about 21. Dll V-VI 1 I 22-24. II 1 I 22-24. 13 gill-rakers. Attains 24 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal. Rare in our area. Flesh good. 542. TRACHINOTUS BLOCHII (Lacepede). [Trachynonis ovalu.s Linn.] F’ampano. Pamphlet. Moonfish. Literature L 4, 19, 47, 105, 328, 548, 623. Plate 25, p. 215. Depth about 2. D I i V-VI + I 18 23. Fig.54l. TRACHINOTUS BAILLONl Lac. Actual length 12 ins. A 11 i 1 16 20. 9 12 gill-rakers. Attains at least 30 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, has been found in Algoa Bay, not uncommon in Natal and Delagoa Bay. Comes into even shallow surf and will take a fly. A fine sporting fish. Flesh good. Genus Elagatis Bennett, genotype Scriola hipinimlata Q. & G. Elongate body with small cycloid scales bearing marginal auxiliary scales. Teeth feeble. A 2-rayed finlet behind dorsal and anal. 2 species, 1 in our area. F'or full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 543. EL.\(]lA riS BIPINNULATU.S (Quoy & Gaimard). Runner. Rainbow Runner. Prodigal Son (Natal). Literature L 4, 47, 147, 317, 328, 471, 589, 623. F’late 24, p. 210. Fig. 543. ELAGATIS BIPINNL'LATUS (Q. & G.). After Day. Depth 3J 5 according to age. D VI I 24- 27 - 2. .A II I 15 17 - 2, front anal spines feeble or absent. .About 25 gill-rakers. L.l. about 100. Greenish-blue above. 2 blue lines along side, yellow between. Caudal yellow. Attains 4 ft. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, rarely comes close inshore. Unfortunately rare in our area, sometimes seen in Natal. A vividly coloured shimmering beauty which gives magnificent sport and is also good eating. Genus Chorinemus C. & V., genotype Scomheroidc.s commer.sonianus Lac. Elongate compressed body of characteristic shape, with fine elongate scales. Hind rays of dorsal and anal partially free. Teeth feeble or needle¬ like. Flesh delicate, but the fine scales are troublesome. Speedy fishes of warm seas, 3 in our area, all much alike. A. Maxilla extends to below eye. 1. Front spots on L.l. .. .. .. .. .. •• to/ (544) 2. Front spots above L. 1. .. .. .. .. .. .• sanclipetri (545) B. Maxilla extends behind eye . . . . . . . . . ■ • • • • • • lysan (546) 224 BONY FISHES— Family POMATOMIDAE 544. CHORINEMUS TOL C. & V. [Scomberoicies tol. Chorinemus moadetta Rupp.] Queen Fish. Litera ture L 4, 19, 154, 328, 527, 623. Fig. 544. CHORINEMUS TOL C. & V . .Actual lengtli 1 1 ins. Depth about 43. D I + VII i 1 19-21 . A 11 + 117-20. 19-20 gill-rakers. A few sharp teeth. Scale.s needle¬ like. Attains at least 24 ins. Mainly silvery, eye, pectoral and caudal yellowish. Widespread in the Indo-Pacilic, has been lound as far south as East London. Flesh excellent, scales troublesome. 545. CHORINEMUS SANCTIPETRl C. & V. [Scomberoides scmctipctri.] Queen Fish. Literature L 4 14, 19, 154, 383, 623. Depth about 4. D 1 Vl-Vll I 20-21. A II i 1 18-19. 16-17 gill-rakers. Maxilla extends below hind margin of eye. Scales elongate, but not needle like. Mainly silvery, fins tinged yellow. 6-8 dark spots all above. 3-5 fainter below L.l. Attains at least 30 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, extends to Natal. A fine game fish, excellent eating, but scales troublesome. 546. CHORINEMUS LYS.4N (Forskal). Queen Fish. Talang (East Indies). Literature L 4 14 47 55 113,275,328,589,623. ’ ’ Depth about 3. D 1 - VI-VlI + 1 19-20. A 11 • 1 18. 11-12 gill-rakers. Maxilla extends well behind eye. Scales elongate. Mainly silvery, darker above, fins yellowish. 6-8 dark spots above L.l . Attains at least 48 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, a large and valued food-fish with delicate flesh. Juveniles reach Natal and are not rare at Delagoa Bay. A 12-lb. specimen taken off Delagoa Bay fought gamely . Family POM.ATOMIDAE Compressed body with tiny scales. 2 dorsals. Razor-sharp compressed teeth. Justified by internal characters this fish has a family all to itself, in the genus Pomatomus Lacepede. 547. PO.MATO.MUS SALT ATOR (Linn.). [Tenmodon conidens CdA. Pomatomus sahatrix Uim.] Elf or Elft (Cape). Shad (Eastern Cape-Natal). Skipjack or Tailer (Universal). Kwanva (Pondo) Anchova (Portuguese). Literature L 4, 19, 47, 105, 157, 251, 568, 577. Plate 24, p. 210. Depth about 3|. D Vl-Vl 11- 1 23-28. A 11 23-27, first spine obscure. 10 gill-rakers. Attains a length of over 4 ft. Eound m almost all but the coldest water in all oceans, is known from our whole region as one of the best angling fishes, entering estuaries freely. Swift and voracious, it bites viciously and fights well, large fishes often jumping repeatedly. Takes almost any moving bait and most flesh including its own. Some writers tell of the ferocity of shoals of this fish which they say attack and tear to shreds even larger fishes. They may destroy many small fishes, but a number of large Elf attacked by a Shark not twice their own length can be panicked to run ashore, and they are preyed upon by larger fishes such as the Kabeljou (No. 552). On the Mozambique coast the young and half-grown fishes shelter in weeds in tide-pools and are speared in numbers by young natives over low tide. BONY FISHES— Families RACH YCENTR! DAE dnd SCIAENIDAE 225 Family RACHYCEN TRIDAF Elongate cylindrical body with minute scales. Head broad and depressed. Mouth large with fine teeth in bands in jaws, on palate and tongue also. Dorsal spines low, separate. 2-3 anal spines. Only one genus Rachy- centron Kaup, genotype the single species, nowhere abundant, but found in all warm seas. 548. RACHYCENTRON CANADUS (Kaup). [Elacale niger Bl. Rhachycentnirn or Rhachycentron canadum.] Runner. Prodigal Son. Literature L 4, 19, 67, 110, 328, 463, 623. Depth variable, about bE D Vll-lX+l-111 26-33. A II 111 22-28. Caudal in young rounded, gradually becomes truncate, and in adults lunate, the upper lobe longer. Dark to brownish. Attains at least 5 ft. Roams widely in all warm seas, except the west coast of America, found in our area from False Bay to Delagoa Bay, entering estuaries, but is not often seen, rare. A fine sporting fish, fights gamely and jumps repeatedly. Flesh wholesome. Family SCIAENIDAE RGBS: KABEI..JOU: SALMON: SALMON BA.SS: CEELBEK: BAARDMANS: TASSELEISH: CORVINAS Body mostly elongate, rather robust, with small to moderate scales, fairly easily shed. Dorsal almost divided, notched before soft fin. Only 2 weak anal spines. A fleshy process in pectoral axil. Caudal never properly forked. Teeth mostly small, canines sometimes present. Air-bladder rather elaborate, with many branches. Well known sombre coloured fishes of warm seas, some at fair depths but mostly of shallow water. Some attain a fair size, and a few are of great economic significance, the tlesh of all being wholesome, of a few well flavoured. Some are good sporting fishes. A number at least produce croaking or drumming sounds, even after removal from the water. They are supposed to use the air-bladder as a sound-box in making these sounds. In India the air-bladders are used to make an inferior quality of Isinglass. The livers of all species are many times richer in vitamin A than that of the European Cod. Numerous genera, 4 in our area. A. No barbel below chin. 1. Caudal truncate or rounded, never emarginate. (a) Distinct pores on chin ... (h) No pores on chin . 2. Caudal distinctly emarginate B. A single barbel below chin Johnius (549-552) Otolithes (553) Atractoscion (554) Sciaena (555-559) Genus Johnius Bloch, genotype yo/;«/w.s caruita Bl. No barbel below chin. Anal with 2 spines, and species in our area all with 6-7 anal rays. Distinct pores on chin. No large canines. In all warm seas, many of com¬ mercial significance. 4 species in our area, only 1 abundant. Identification of small specimens is not easy. A. L.l. tubes with 2 branches. 1. Large teeth in upper jaw only . helengeri (549) 2. Large teeth in both jaws ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... si na (550) B. L.l. tubes many-branched. 1. 2nd anal spine strong, equals 1st ray . soldado (551) 2. 2nd anal spine weak ... . ho/olepidotus (552) 226 BONY FISHES— Family SCfAENIDAE 549. JOHNIUS BELENGERU (Cuvier). [Sciaenci helen<^eri.] Corvina (Portuguese). Literature L 21, 328, 580, 635, 660. Fig. 549. JOHNIUS BELENGERU (Cuv.). After Day. Depth about 3). D IX-X ■ 1 27-32. A 11 7. L.l. about 45 tubules with 2 branehes. Tr. 6 13. 9 short gill-rakers. Grey silvery. Attains 9 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal. Possibly the young of some larger species. « 550. JOHNIUS SIN.4 (Cuvier). [Sciaeua or Pseudosciacua sina, or rng/m Blkr., or parva G. & T. Johnius nuirleyi Norman.] Corvina (Portuguese). Small Salmon. Literature L 14, 19, 328, 580, 635, 660. Depth 3J. D X-4-1 27-29. A II 7. L.l. about 50 tubules with 2 branches. Tr. 7 13. 8 gill-rakers plus a few knobs. Attains 14 ins. Greyish drab colour. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal, often plentiful in estuaries and a pest to anglers, flesh soft and tasteless. By some placed in the genus Pscudosciatna Blkr., not here accepted as valid. 551 . JOHNIUS SOLDADO { Lacepede). [Sciaeim miles or sohlado Lac., or dorsalis Peters.] Corvina (Portuguese). Literature L 14,328,594,635, 660. Depth about 3. D lX-X — 1 28-31 . All 7. L.l. about 55, tubules with many branches. Tr. 8 15. 9 gill-rakers plus rudiments. Drab grey or olive on back, silvery below. Attains 30 ins., usually smaller in our area. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, rare. 552. JOHNIUS HOLOLEPIDOTUS (Lacepede). [Sciaeua hololepidota.] Salmon. Salmon Bass. Kob. Kabeljou. Rietbul (Knysna). Boerkabeljou. Jewfish (Aust.). .Maigcr (Medit.). Literature L 19, 27, 58, 561 635, 655, 660. Plate 26, p. 226. Depth 33-3|. D X : I 26-28. A II 7. L.L 50-58, tubules with numerous branches, variable. Tr. 8 20. About 10 spiny gill-rakers plus some rudiments. Caudal changes with age, rounded in the young, practically truncate in adults. Attains 6 ft. and a weight of over 150 lbs. Occurs in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, Mauritius, and about Australia. Found over virtually our whole region, down to at least 200 fathoms, enters and lives freely in estuaries, where it grows to a great size. One of our most important food fishes, taken in great numbers on lines and by trawl. Flesh wholesome but not of the first rank. Livers rich in valuable vitamin A. As an angling fish is considered good in the colder waters, but is sluggish in the warmer seas. Takes almost any bait, also spoons and plugs. Has been observed to taste a bait, spit it out and then return to swallow it. The spiny gill-rakers can lacerate incautious fingers. Genus Otolithes Oken, genotype Johnius ruber Schn. No barbels below chin. .Anal with 2 spines and 6-7 soft rays. No pores on chin. Two widely separated large canines in upper and 1-2 central in lower jaw. Tropical Atlantic and Indo-Pacific, mostly large fishes, several species, 1 in our area. Fig. 551. JOHNIUS SOLDADO (Lac.). After Day. Fyv/f PLATE 26 538. Scriola honaricmis, i5 ins. 552. Johnius hololepidotus, 33 ins. 553. Ololiihus ruber, 16 ins. 554. Atractoscion aequidens. 36 ins. 556. Sciuena cupeiisis, above, 27 ins., left, 9 ins. 557. Sciaemi robittsoiti, 24 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family SC/AENJDAE 227 yOtolithus ruher.] Longtooth Salmon. Snapper Salmon. Litera¬ ture L 4, 14, 19, 47, 154, 635, 660. Plate 26, p. 226. Depth about 3f. D X • I 28-30. A II 7. 10 gill-rakers. L.l. about 50 arborescent tubules Tr 8 10 Attains 36 ms. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal. In some parts quite abundant’ an important food-fish. ’ Genus Atractoscion Gill, genotype Otolithus aequkkns Cuv. No barbel below chin. Anal with 2 spines and 9 soft rays. Lower jaw projects. No pores on chin. Caudal distinctly emarginate. One large species of Southern Africa and Australia. 554. AT RACl OSCION AEQUIDENS (Cuvier). [Atractoscion alelodus Gnthr. Zeluco atelodus. Otolithus teraglin Mach] Salmon. Cape Salmon. Ceelbek. Teraglin (Australia). Literature L 3, 47, 58, 561 635 Plate 26, p. 226. Depth about 4j. D X • I 27-31. A II 9. L.l. 75-80 tubules, on front part with many branches, those on hinder part of L.l. with 3 branches. Tr. 15/28. 8-9 short gill-rakers. Inside of mouth and opercle yellow. Attains 50 ms. South coast of Africa and Australia. In our area known from the Cape to Natal, shore to 60 fathoms, taken on lines, and fewer by trawl. Not often captured from the shore, though the young sometimes enter estua¬ ries and have been found in blind rivers. Flesh highly esteemed, cures easily. While the fresh fishes are easily distinguished, even by the layman, from the more common Kob or Salmon (No. 552), the headless cured fishes are identifiable by ordinary people only by the tails. Sometimes the tails of cured Kobs are trimmed by dishonest vendors so as to resemble those of the more costly Geelbek. Genus Sciacna Linnaeus, genotype Sciaena cirrosa Linn. A single short thick barbel on chin. Pores on snout and chin. 2 anal spines. Snout rather prominent. No canines. Caudal truncate, rounded or slightly emarginate. A moderate number of species in most warm seas, shore to deepish water, enter estuaries, nowhere abundant, but excellent eating. 5 species in our area, all look much alike, rather troublesome to identify, require careful study. A. 23 26 dorsal rays. 1 . Scales cycloid . 2. Scales ctenoid. («) Spinous dorsal shorter than pectoral... (^) Spinous dorsal about equal to pectoral B. 27 31 dorsal rays. 1. With oblique bands . 2. No bands, numerous spots ... (lussumieri (555) capensis (556) rohinsoni (557) sinuata (558) macroptera (559) 555. SC I.AEN.A DUS.SUMIERI (Valenciennes). [Umhrina or Sciaena (lussumieri, or fuscolineata von B] Tasselfish. Literature L 21, 635, 660. Depth about 3L D X i I 23-26. A II 7. L.l. tubules about 50, each with 2 branches. Tr. 6 15. 8 9 short gill-rakers. Caudal rounded. Snout rounded. Brownish, vague stripes below L.l. Attains 10 ins. Found over a wide area in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, not abundant, reaches Natal, taken in 20-30 fathoms. Drums when handled. 556. SCl.AENA C'.APF'NSLS (Pappe). [Umhrina capensis.] Baardman. Belvis. Tasselfish. Literature L 3, 47, 209, 251, 635. Plate 26, p. 226. Depth 2J 3L D X ■ 1 24 25. A II 7. L.l. 52 55, tubules with 3-5 branches. Tr. 10/17. 8-9 small gill-rakers. Caudal rounded in young, slightly emarginate in adult. Attains 36 ins. Occurs only from the Cape to Zululand down to 80 fathoms, taken in numbers in the trawl, not abundant inshore, an occasional capture on lines, sometimes in estuaries. A dogged fighter, flesh excellent. The unmarketable soft-bodied young are given an unprintable name by trawler hands. 557. SCIAENA ROBINSONI Gilchrist & Thompson. [Umhrina rohinsoni, or angustUineata G. & T.] Tasselfish. Literature L 19, 21, 44, 635. Plate 26, p. 226. Depth 3-3.1. D X ; 1 23-26. A II 7. L.l. 49-54, tubules with 3-5 branches. Tr. 9/17. 8-10 short gill-rakers. Caudal about truncate. Young with many dark streaks running back and up, adult uniform as shown. Attains 28 ins. Found from Durban to near fnhambane, not abundant. 228 BONY FISHES— Family MULUDAE 558. SCIAENA SINUATA (Day). [Umhriua sinuata. Umhrina or Sciaena striata BIgr.] Tasselfish Literature L 328, 635. Depth about 22. D X ! I 27-29. A II 7. L.l. about 50, tubules with 2-3 branches, simple near caudal Tr. 7/12. 7 9 short gill-rakers. Dull, with purplish sheen. 9 or more dark stripes running back and up the lower almost horizontal. Attains 20 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, reaches as far south as East London' not abundant, taken in the trawl to 50 fathoms. 559. SCIAENA M.ACROPTERA (Bleeker). [Umhrina macroptcra.] Tasselfish. Literature L 4 3")^ 594, 635, 660. ’ ’ Depth about 3{. D X 1 28 31. A II 7. L.l. about 47, tubules with 3-5 branches. Tr. 5/15. 7-10 short gill-rakers. Caudal vaguely wedge-shaped. Sombre greyish with tine dark dots. Attains 10 ins. Widespread but not abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal, rare in our area. Family MULLID.AE REDMULLETS: SURMULLETS: C.O.ATFISHES: SALMONET Body fairly elongate, rather robust. Eye moderate. Mouth rather .small, teeth feeble. 2 simple long barbels on chin. Scales large, lateral line tubes often branched. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 6-8 spines. Anal short, with I 2 spines. Characteristic mostly small fishes found in all warm seas, generally in shallow water often in estuaries, but never far from the sea. A few penetrate all but the coldest waters. All are typical bottom dwellers, and as they prowl over the bottom the barbels are in constant motion touching everything feeling for food. When something edible is encountered the fish backs or swings round and down. These fishes are noted for their brilliant colours, as well as for the e.xcellence of their flesh, which is most delicate and tasty, with few bones. The ancient Romans are said to have paid for these fishes their own weight in silver. It is best, however not to eat the heads as the brains are said to cause consulsions. In summer these fishes are quite abundant in the waters of Mozambique, where they are knowm as “ Salmonet ", but unfortunately only rarely come further south. 3 genera from the Indo-Pacific penetrate our region. A. Teeth on vomer and palatines . Upeneus (560 563) B. No teeth on palate. 1. One or two series of teeth in each jaw . Pseudupenciis (564 571) 2. Bands of fine teeth in each jaw . MiilloUlichthys (572 573) Genus Upeneus Cuvier, genotype Mullus vittatus Forsk. Minute teeth on vomer and palatines and in bands in each jaw. Body somewhat compressed. Mouth rather small. An Indo-Pacific genus of about 20 species, but only 4 have so far been found in our area. Distinguished mainly by colours. A. Dark stripe from snout to caudal . B. No dark stripe along body. 1. Black cross-bars on caudal ... 2. Red cross-bars on caudal 3. No cross-bars on caudal, yellow stripes on body tragula (560) vittatus (561) bensasi (562) stilpliurcus (563) 560. UPENEUS TR,\GULA Richardson. Goatfish. Redmullet. Surmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 55 328, 623, 635. Plate 27, p. 229. Depth 4]. D VII-VIII . I 7-8. A I 6-7. L.l. 30-32. Tr. 2/6. 16-18 gill-rakers including 6 rudiments. Colour somewhat variable, stripe always present. Rather small, attains 10 ins. Occurs throughout the Indo- Pacific and reaches our shores, but not often south of Delagoa Bay. 561. UPENEUS \ ITTATUS (Forskal). Goatfish. Redmullet. Surmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 14 19, 47, 326, 328, 623, 635. Plate 27, p. 229. Depth about 4. D VlII { I 8. A I ^7. L.l. 33-38. Tr. 3, 7. 16-20 gill-rakers including 6 rudiments. Colours brilliant, somewhat variable. Attains 12 ins. Widely distributed throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon in our area, occasional specimens reach south to East London. 1 PLATE 27 560. Upeneus Iragu/a, 9 ins. 561 . Upeneus vatatus, 9 ins. 562. Upcneus hensasi, 10 ins. 566. Pseiicliipeneus barberiniis, 8 ins. 567. Pseudupeneus indicus, 9 ins. 7 ins. 564. Pseudupeneus fraterculus. Actual length stated' in each case. BONY FISHES — Family MULL! DAE 229 562. IJPENEUS BENSASI (Schlegel). Goatfish. Redmullet. Surmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 4, 190, 328, 472, 635. Plate 27, p. 229. Depth 4. D VI-VIII ; 1 8. A I 6. L.l. 28-33. Tr. 2/7. 16-18 gill-rakers including 4 rudiments. Colour variably rosy, bronze or yellowish. Attains 8 ins. Widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacifie, rather rare in our area, reaehes not far south of Durban. 56.3. IJPENEUS SULPHUREUS Cuvier. Goatfish. Surmullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 86, 328, 623, 635. Plate 28, p. 231. Depth 31 '3s. D VIII | 1 8. A 1 6 7. L.l. 33-37. Tr. 3/7-8. 19 22 gill-rakers including 1 rudiment. Attains 8 ins. A shapely fish found over most of the Indo-Pacific, reaches our area but not yet seen south of Delagoa Bay, where it is not uncommon. Genus Pseudupeneus Bleeker, genotype Upeneus prayensis Val. No teeth on palate. Teeth usually in a single row in each jaw, rather strong, often unequal. Sometimes 2 irregular rows in one or both jaws. Barbels rather long. Mouth small. Many species widespread in all tropical seas, 8 in our area all from the Indo-Pacific. They are recognised mainly by colour and markings. 2 species are not figured, but may easily be recognised from the descriptions. 564. PSEUDUPENEUS FRATERCULU.S (Valenciennes). [Parupeneus fraterculus. Upeneus natalensis G. & T. Upeneus dispilurus Goatfish. Surmullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 1 4. 1 9, 43, 275, 328, 635. Plate 27, p. 229. Depth 3-3L D Vlll 18. A I 6. L.l. 27 30. Tr. 3/7. 17 20 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. One of the largest and most widely distributed species, found over mo.st of the central Indo-Pacific. The most widespread species in our area, travels as far south as Mossel Bay. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 565. PSEUDUPKNEU.S jV1.ACRONF..M.\ (Lacepede). [Parupeneus macronema.] Goatfish. Surmullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 4, 326, 328, 623, 635. F-ig. 565. PSEU DUPES EL'S MACROS EM A (Lac.). Actual length 7 ins. Depth 3L D Vlll ; 18. A I 6. L.l. 28 30. Tr. 3/7. 24 gill-rakers. Colour like No. 566, the only difference being that in macroncnui the last dorsal ray and the last anal ray are quite elongate. .Attains 14 ins. Occurs throughout the central Indo-Pacific and occasional specimens reach Delagoa Bay. 566. PSEUDUPENEUS BARBERINUS (Lacepede). [Parupeneus harherinus.] Goatfish. Surmullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 4, 19, 326, 328, 623, 635. Plate 27, p. 229. Depth 3J. D VII ; I 8. A I 6. L.L 28-31. Tr. 2 '7. 17-20 gill-rakers. The dark stripe varies in length, sometimes quite short. One of the largest species, attaining over 20 ins. Occurs throughout the warmer Indo- Pacific, and reaches as far south as Durban, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay. 18 230 BONY FISHES- Family MULL/DAE 567. PSEUDUPENEUS INDICUS (Shaw). [Upeneus russellii Cuv. or nialahariciis Val. Eanipcnei/s indicus.] Goatfish. Surmullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 4, 47, 326, 328, 623, 635. Plate 27, p. 229 Depth 31-32. D VIII : I 8-9. A I II 6. L.l. 27-30. Tr. 3/7. 17-20 gill-raker.s. Attains 16 ins. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, occasional specimens reach Port Alfred 568. PSEUDUPENEUS PLEUROSTIGMA (Bennett). [Parupencus pleurostignui.] Goatfish. Siirniullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 14, 326, 383, 461, 623, 635. Depth 31. DVI1I-1-I8. A 1 11 6. L.L 28-30. Tr. 2/6. 18-22 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Colour and appearance very like No. 569, except that the spot on the side is below the interdorsal space. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacitic, reaches our area, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, unknown furtlier south. 569. PSEUDUPENEUS PLEUROSPILOS (Bleeker). Goatfish. Surmullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 86, 623, 635. Plate 28, p. 231 . Depth 3|. D VIII 1 8. A I 6. L.l. 25-29. Tr. 2/6. 19 gill-rakers. Attains 14 ins. Occurs throughout the central Indo-Pacific, reaches our area, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, unknown further south. 570. PSEUDUPENEUS CYCLOSTOMUS (Lacepede). [Parupeneus cydostomus. MuUus lutciis Plyfr. Mullt/s oxycephalus Blkr.] Goatfish. Surmullet. Redmullet. Salmonet. Literature L 328, 383, 580, 623, 635. Depth 31. D VIII I 8. A I-ll 6. L.l. 27-30. Tr. 2/7. 24 gill-rakers. Barbels long, usually reach pelvics. Rosy or orange-yellow, sometimes faint yellow stripes along body. Blue or yellow lines from snout through eye. 1st dorsal smoky to rose. Most fins rosy, soft dorsal and anal with 3 5 blue or yellow oblique bars. Attains 18 ins. Widespread throughout the warmer Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, but not often seen in our area. 571. PSEUDUPENEUS PLEUROT.AENI.\ (Playfair). Literature L 86, 275. Plate 20, p. 200. Fig. 571. PSEUDUPENEUS PLEUROTAEMA (Plyfr.). .Actual length 6 ins. Depth about 32. D VIII • I 8. A I 6. L.l. 28-30. Tr. 2 7. 19 gill-rakers. Colours brilliant, lade rapidly after death. Attains at least 8 ins. Previously regarded as the juvenile of No. 564. The black spot near the caudal sometimes absent. So far known from East London to Zanzibar, not uncommon. Genus Mulloidichthys Whitley, genotype Mullus flavolinearus Lac. No teeth on palate. Usually bands of fine teeth in each jaw. Snout rather long, rounded above. Rather small fishes of the Indo-Pacific, not many species, 2 in our area. Dominant colour yellow. A. No blotch in yellow lateral stripe . aurijlumma (572) B. Blotch below 1st dorsal . samoensis (573) PLATE 28 563. Upenens sidphureus, 8 ins, 569. Pseuclupeneus pleurospilos, 7 ins. 573. Mulloidichlhvs samoensis, 9 ins. 574. Emmelichthys nitidus, 12 ins. Actual length siated in each case. 572. MuUoidichrhys ciiiriflamma, 9 ins. 575, Plagioj'eneion ruhiginosus, 15 ins. BONY FISHES^Family EMMELICHTHY/DAE 231 572. MULLOIDICH FHYS AURIFLAMMA (Forskal). [Mulloides auriflamma. Upeneus quekdti G. & T., or japonicus Cuv. Mulloides Jiavolinealus Lac.] Coatfish. Salmonet. Literature L 4, 326, 328, 623, 635. Plate 28, p. 23 1 . Depth about 4. D VIH I 8. A I~ll 6. L.l. 35-38. Tr. 2/7. 20 gill-rakers including some rudiments. Attains 16 ins. One of the most widespread of the Indo-Pacific Goatfishes, and one of the most valued as food, abundant in many areas. Not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, occasional specimens wander as far south as Knysna. 573. IVlULI.OIDICH'rHYS SAIVIOENSIS (Gunther). [Mulloidichthys armatus de Vis.] Goatfish. Sal- monet. Literature L 86, 635. Plate 28, p. 231. Depth 4]. D VII ■ 1 8. All 5 6. L.l. 36-38. Tr. 3/7. 16-19 gill-rakers, some rudimentary. Attains 15 ins. Widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific, occasionally reaches Delagoa Bay, unknown further south. Family EMMKLICFdTHYIDAE Elongate not very compressed neat body with small scales. Dorsal fin continuous or in 2 parts with spines between. Oblique extensible mouthy teeth feeble or absent, maxilla expanded, scaly. Fishes of fairly deep water of the Indo-Pacific, 2 genera in our area. A. 1st dorsal quite separate . . Emmelichlliys (514) B. Dorsal continuous ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Plagiogeneion (515) Genus Emniclichthys Richardson, genotype Emmelichthys nitidus Rich. Dorsal in 3 parts, middle section of 2 4 disconnected spines. No teeth. Only one species. Cape to Australasia. 574. EMMEI.ICH THY.S NITIDU.S Rich. Red Sea-Haarder (West Coast Trawlers). Literature L 4, 187, 471, 502, 635. Plate 28, p. 231. 574 Fig. 574. EMMELICHTHYS SITIDUS Rich. Actual length 12 ins. Neat fusiform body. Depth about 4T D VII-IX Il-IV-t-l 9-10. A III 10. 27 gill-rakers. L.l. about 100. Tr. 8 21. Colour variably pink to golden, fins always pink or coral. Attains 24 ins. An Australian species occasionally taken by trawl in 60 250 fathoms off the Western Cape coast. Flesh excellent. At first casual glance resembles a Mullet or Haarder. Genus Plagiogeneion Forbes, genotype Therapon ruhiginosus Hutt. .A single dorsal fin with 12 spines. Teeth feeble, sometimes absent. One species. 575. P1,.\GI()GENEI()N RUBIGINOSUS (Hutton). Rock Salmon (Trawlers). Literature L 4, 324, 529, 635. Plate 28, p. 231. Body moderately compressed. Depth about 3. D Xll 10. A 111 9. L.l. about 70. Tr. 12/24. 25-28 gill-rakers. Attains 24 ins. First found in Australia, now known from the Cape, and not uncommon in 300 fathoms off Algoa Bay, especially on the rich fishing ground over which for some reason quantities of mustard gas were dumped after the war of 1939 1946. In consequence several trawler-hands were injured and the fishing ground was closed for some years. 232 BONY FISHES—Families DREPANIDAE and PLATACIDAE Family DREPANIDAE Deep compressed body with moderate scales. Spines strong. Pectoral long, falcate. The structure of the mouth is in many ways unique, and when protruded it projects downwards as a tube. Only one genus, Drepane C. & V., with I species. 576. DREP.ANE PUNCTAT.A (Linnaeus). Sickle or Concertina Fish. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 47, 328, 615, Fig. 576. DREPANE PUNCTATA (Linn.). Left, juvenile at 6 in.s. Right, adult at 14 ins. D Vlll IX 19-22. A 111 1709. L.l. 50 55. Tr. 14-15 above L.l. 10 1 1 gill-rakers. Attains 16 ins. Variable in colour and markings, either vertical rows of spots, or cross-bars, the latter more usual in our area. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as East London, penetrating estuaries. Taken mostly in nets, is a common but not esteemed food-fish. Noteworthy as occurring also on the tropical west coast of Africa. Family PLATACIDAE Curious deep-bodied fishes of the tropics with small mouth and tricuspid teeth. Small adherent scales. Considerable changes occur with growth. Two genera, each with one species, now'here abundant, easily distinguished. Genus Platax Cuvier, genotype Chaetodon teira Forsk. Almost circular body with enormous soft dorsal and anal fins. Variable in shape, and changes occur with growth, so that many nominal species have been described. It seems probable that there is only one widely distributed species of the Indo-Pacific. 577. PLATAX PINNATUS (Linnaeus). [Platax vespertiHo Bloch. Platax teira Forsk. Platax orbicularis Forsk.] .4ngel Fish (Dela- goa). Seabat. Batfish. Literature L 4, 47, 69, 328, 615, 660. Body as deep as long. D V 28-38, spines almost concealed. A 111 24-29. Pectorals short, pelvics elongate. Caudal truncate. 8-10 gill-rakers. Scales small and rough. The young are yellow or orange, but the colour and cross-bars hide with growth, the adult being dusky. Attains 26 ins. Widely distributed in the warm waters of the Indo- Pacific, not uncommon on our east coast, occasional stragglers wander as far south as Knysna. Usually captured in nets. Edible, flesh not valued. The young when startled wrinkle up the long fins, lie inert, and sink slowly, looking much like a dead leaf. Fig. 577. PLATAX PINNATUS (Linn.). Left, at 4 ins. Right, at 19 ins. length. BONY FISHES— Families CAPROlC>^E and MONO DACTYL! DAE 233 Genus Tripterodon Playfair, genotype the single species. Deep body with fairly small scales. Soft dorsal and anal low. One species only. 578. FRIPTERODON ORBIS Playfair. John Dory iDelagoa). Spadefish (Natal). Literature L 14, 69, 81, 275, 635. Previously conEised with Chaetociipterus orhis Bl. Plate 29, p. 234. Depth FJ. D IX 19-21, 3rd spine longest, much longer ihan any soft ray, 4th and 5th also elongated. A 111 15-17. L.l. 43-45. Tr. 12 24. Mouth small, lips thick, teeth tricuspid. 9-10 gill-rakers. 1st pelvic ray elongate. Attains 30 ins., almost 20 lbs., usually smaller. Changes occur veith growth, large adults having shorter front dorsal spines, more orbicular body, and the cross-bars fade. Nowhere abundant, is known only from Natal to Mombasa, about reefs, feeds by nibbling at organisms on rocks or coral. Large specimens when approached by certain tiny fishes turn head up in the water and open the mouth. The small fishes then come and nibble about the mouth and teeth (H. Lc May). This position probably reassures the small fishes that they are not in danger of being engulfed. Fights quite gamely when hooked. Flesh palatable. Family CAPKOIDAF, BOARFISHES Compressed deep body with small ctenoid scales. Mouth rather small, with fine teeth in bands in jaws, sometimes on palate also. Small fishes of fairly deep water in all oceans, nowhere abundant. One genus Antigonia Lowe, genotype Amiponia capros Lowe, with one species in our area, previously confused with capros Lowe. 579. ANTI(;OMA RUBESCLNS (Gunther). Boarfish. Literature L 39, 572, 615, 616. Plate 29, p. 234. Depth about 1. D IX 26-29. A III 25-27. L.l. about 55. Tr. 14 40. About 14 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacific in 30-500 fathoms, has been found off Natal down to 250 fathoms, rare in our area. Kig. 578. TRIPTERODON ORBIS Plyfr. Actual length 6 ins. Showing a specimen which has been treated with chemicals to render the flesh transparent and stain the bones red. All details of the skeleton may Family MONOD.ACTYLIDAE Deep silvery compressed body, with tine scales extending over the fins also. Mouth small with feeble teeth> some also on palate. Fin spines reduced. Several genera, 2 in the Indo-Pacific, and one, Psettus Cuv., with one species, in which the body is deeper than long, occurs in tropical West Africa. Only the type genus Monodactylus Lacepede, genotype Monodactylus faicifonnis Lacepede, with 2 species in our area, closely related, distinguished by shape and markings. A. Depth H-2 . falciformis (580) B. Depth lj-1.1 . aryenteus (59,1) 580. MONOD.AC r\ l.L’S F ALCIFORMIS Lacepede. [Sironiatoidea layardi Cast.] Cape Lady (Knysna). Moon-fish. Moony. Kite-fish. Sea-kite (Eastern Cape and Natal). Literature L 19, 21, 47, 251, 328, 615, 660 Plate 29, p. 234, juvenile and adult. Depth U-2. D VII-VIII 26-30. A III 27-30. VIS. L.l. 50-60. 20-24 gill-rakers. Brilliant silvery with iridescence, the scales easily shed. Attains over 12 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, is abundant and occurs in great shoals about rocks and reefs in the warmer parts of our eastern waters, extending almost to the Cape, preferring quiet waters and estuaries. Great numbers are killed whenever there is an onset of cold water 234 BONY FISHES— Families SCATOPHAGIDAE and POMACANTHIDAE (see p. 8). Equally at home in fresh water, this species is found inland over wide areas along our south and east coasts. It readily takes a fly both in the sea and in fresh water. Flesh soft and spoils rapidly. 581. MONODACTYLUS ARGENTEUS (Linnaeus). Moony. Moon-fish. Kite-fish. Sea-kite (Natal). Literature L 47, 328, 545, 615, 660. Depth 11-U. D Vll-Vlll 28-30. A 111 28-32. V I 2-4. L.l. 50-60. 16-19 gill-rakers. Brilliant silvery, characterised by only 2 cross-bars which fade with growth. Attains 9 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, entering estuaries and fresh water, reaches as far south as East London, once reported from Knysna, but rare south of Pondoland. In habits similar to No. 580. Family SCATOPHAGIDAE Deep, solid, often angular body, with firm skin set with small ctenoid' scales. Small mouth with bands of fine teeth, none on palate. Gill-membranes narrowly attached to isthmus. Lateral line complete. 4 anal spines. The young are quite unlike the adult having heavy bony shields on the head and a large spine at the shoulder, all vanishing with growth. Small fishes of the warmer Indo-Pacific, abundant in some parts, freely eaten by most native races, usually avoided by Europeans as they are supposed to relish sewer efiluent (some esteemed South African fishes do not despise it). The genus, Scatophagus Cuvier, genotype Chaetodon argus Linn., with a few species, 1 in our area. 582. SC.ATOPH.-VGUS TETR.4C.ANTHUS (Lacepede). Previously confused in S. Africa with Scatophagus argils (BL). Literature L 14, 128, 615, 660. Plate 29, p. 234. Depth about 1 1. D XI 15-18. A IV 14-15. Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the tropical indo-Pacitic, common in Delagoa Bay. reaches Durban. The more abundant closely related argiis (Bl.) has large dark spots and no bars. Fig. 581. \tO\ODACTYLUS ARGEMEUS (Linn,). Actual length 5 ins. Family POMACANTHIDAE Body compressed, variably deep or fairly elongate, with hard rough adherent small to moderate scales, with often smaller scales on scales (auxiliaries). Lateral line sometimes not complete. Mouth small, with fine bristle-like teeth, usually tricuspid. Preopercle with serrate margin and a strong spine at angle. Fin spines well developed. Caudal usually rounded. No elongate scale in axil of pelvic. Found in all warm .seas, most are small or of moderate size. Mainly frequenting reefs they are among the most beautifully adorned of all creatures. Some undergo astonishing changes in markings and colour with growth so as to present many problems to the systematist. Nowhere abundant, they are widespread, and excellent eating. They feed mostly on minute organisms scraped from the rocks. Primarily tropical, they are comparatively rare in our area and always excite interest. Of 7 Indo-Pacific genera, 3 are in our area. A. More than 70 series of scales . Pomacanthus (583-585) B. Not more than 50 series of scales. 1. Interorbital wider than eye . Holacaiuhiis (586) 2. Interorbital not wider than eye . Centropyge (587-588) Genus Pomacanthus Lacepede, genotype Chaetodon arcuatus Linn. Scales small and irregular, rough. Lateral line smoothly arched, not easily visible. The young have blue and white more or less concentric lines, or curved cross-bars, over a dark body, but gradually change with growth. One such case is illustrated (584). 5 Indo-Pacific species are recognised, 3 in our area. A. 11-12 dorsal spines . striatus {5^ B. 13 dorsal spines ... ... ... . , . semicircidatus (584) C. 14 dorsal spines . imperator (585) •HVjm PLATE 29 578. TripteroJon orhis, S ins. 579. AnUgonia ruhescens, 5 ins. 580. Monodactylus fakiformis, &ho\ie, 9 ins., ]x\ov/, ins. 582. Scatophagu.s leifocunthus, 6 ins. 583. Ponuictr/rfhi/s striatus, above, 15 ins., below, 5 ins. 590. Heniochns aciiminaliis. 1 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family POMACANTHIDAE 235 583. POMACANTHUS STRIATUS (Ruppell). [Holacunthus striatus or rhomhoides G. & T.] Old Woman. Literature L 43, 47, 161, 580, 615, 660. Plate 29, p. 234, juvenile and adult. Depth about IL D XI-XII 22-24. A III 21-23. About 80 series of scales. The young have up to 12-15 alternately broad and narrow light cross-bars. Adults rather dull, body more or less angular, easily recognisable. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon at Delagoa Bay, occasionally reaches Knysna. Good eating. 584. POMACANTHUS SEMICIRCULATUS (Cuvier). {Ifolacanthus semicirculatus, or lepidolepis BIkr. or ahcnuins Plyfr.] Literature L 21, 275, 326, 383, 615, 660. Plate 30, p. 236, Juvenile and adult. Depth about 1 §. D XIII 21-23. A III 20-22. About 75 series of scales. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, the young as far south as Port Alfred. The sparkling blues of the living young most beautiful. Striking change in form and colour with growth. 585. POMACANTHUS IMPERA’TOR (Bloch), [ffolacanthus imperator, or nicohariensis BL, or geo- metricus Cuv.] Literature L 86, 615, 660. Plate 30, p. 236. Depth li-l;,. D XIV 19-22. A III 18-21. About 90 series of scales. The young are almost black, with curved white more or less concentric lines over body, usually a small circle near tail. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Holacanthus Lacepede, genotype Chaetodon tricolor BIch. Moderate rough scales in regular rows, 45-50 series. Interorbital Ij 1.' times eye. Lateral line high up. 13-14 dorsal spines. 3 Indo-Pacific species, I in our area. 586. HOE.ACANTHUS TRI.M.ACUT.ATUS Cuvier. Literature L 86, 326, 615, 660. Plate 30, p. 236. Depth about IJ. D XIII-XIV 16-18. A III 18. L.l. about 46. Attains 10 ins. Widespread but not anywhere abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found off Delagoa Bay. Rare in our area. Genus Centropyge Kaup, genotype llolacaniliiis tihicen Cuv. Moderate rough scales, less than 50 regular series. Interorbital narrower than eye. Lateral line high up, not on peduncle. Rather small fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific, 2 in our area, quite differently marked. 587. CENTROI’YCE BISPINOSUS (Gun¬ ther). [Holacanthus hispinosus, or midtispinis Plyfr., or somervilli Rgn.] Literature L 86, 275. 326, 485, 615, 660. Depth about IJ. D XIV-XV 16 17. A III 16-17. About 44 series of scales. 1 5-16 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Colour variable from yellow to dark, margins of dorsal, anal and caudal blue, cross-bars brown to black. Pectorals sometimes lighter, cross-bars often more vivid. Widespread but not abundant in the central tropical Indo- Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. Fig. .S87. CEXTROPYGE BISPISOSUS (Gnthr.). .Actual length 4 ins. 588. CENTROPYGE FISHERI (Snyder). [Holacanthus fisheri, or acanthops Norman, or flavicauda Fr. -Brunner.] Literature L 580, 615. Plate 30, p. 236. Depth 2-2]. D XIV XV 16-17. A HI 16-17. 40-45 series of scales. So far known only from juveniles up to 3 ins. Taken at odd places ranging from East London to China and Hawaii. .A rare but incredibly lovely small creature. No artist may hope to reproduce its glowing shades. 236 BONY FISHES— Family CHAETODONTIDAE Family CHAETODONTIDAE BUTTERFLY FISHES: CORAL FISHES Deep compressed body with moderate scales. Dorsal and anal well developed, mainly scaly. Small mouth with fine bristle-like teeth. Caudal never torked. Lateral line sometimes ends before caudal base. The small young are very different from the adult, having large bony plates covering the head. Small fishes of tropical waters, extremely agile, living mainly about reefs, though many shelter also in marine growth. They are mostly brilliantly coloured and marked, and are among the most beautiful of all living creatures. NJumerous species in all tropical seas, edible, but few of importance as food. 3 genera in our area. A. Snout elongated, tubular . Forcipiger (589) B. Snout normal. 1. 4th dorsal spine filamentous... ... ■■ ■ ■ ■ ■■■ fF>ni<>c-/}us (590) 2. 4th dorsal spine normal ... . . ••• ■■■ Cluwlodon ( 591 606) Genus Forcipiger Jordan and Evermann, genotype the single species. Snout produced, tubular, with small mouth at end. 12-13 dorsal spines. The related genus Chclmon Cloquet has only 9, and C/ielmonops Bleeker has 1 1 dorsal spines. 589. FORCIPIGER LONGIROSTRIS (Broussonet). Literature L 86, 615, 660. Plate 31, p. 239. Depth about 21. D Xll Xlll 20-23. A 111 18. L.l. about 60. Attains 9 ins. Widely distributed but not abundant over most of the Indo-Pacific, though not on Indian shores. Has been found at Delagoa Bay. A quaint fish. Genus Heniochus Cuvier, genotype Chaetodcm macrolepidotus Linn. Characterised by great elongation of the 4th dorsal spine. Several Indo-Pacific species. Some develop fleshy horns on the forehead. 1 species in our area. 590. HENIOCHUS .ACL'MINATUS (Linnaeus). [Heniochus nuicrcdepidoius Lmn.] .\ngel Fish. Literature L 14, 47, 328, 444, 615, 660. Plate 29, p. 234. Depth about I4. D Xl-Xll 23-28. A 111 15-19. L.l. about 45. 11 gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon as far as Durban, occasional specimens reach Knysna. An agile but stately fish, common about reefs, and a lovely sight in clear tropical waters. Valued as food. Genus Chaetodon Linnaeus, genotype Chaetodon capistratus Linn. Deep highly compressed body with high dorsal and anal fins, all scaly. Pectorals short. Small mouth, with bristle-like teeth. Juveniles are very different from the adults. They were once described as a separate genus, ThoUchthys, and have smooth bony plates covering most of the head and beyond, sometimes with spines, all of which gradually vanish with growth. Chaetodons are agile small fishes of reefs in tropical waters, and their brilliance is difficult to describe or portray. They take refuge in crevices, and wedged firmly with the strong spines of the dorsal pointing outwards, they are a problem to dislodge, and safe from most pursuers. Especially abundant in the Indo-Pacific, hut not easily caught, they are too small to be of importance as food. 18* species have been found in our area and more doubtless await discovery. Only one (marleyi 591) is endemic, and likely originated from or with a closely related Atlantic species. The species are distinguished mainly by markings, and keys are based largely/ c'>n those. All our species are illustrated so that a detailed key is superfluous. A. 11 dorsal spines . marleyi (591) B. 12-13 dorsal spines. See illustrations . (592 605) C. 14 dorsal spines* . xanthocephalus (605) D. 16 dorsal spines . Nackhurnii (606) 591. CHAETODON M.ARLEVI Regan. Literature L 14, 19, 67, 615. Plate 31, p. 239, juvenile and adult. .Also Frontispiece. Depth near U. D XI 22-26. A HI 16-19. L.l. 40-45. 9-10 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Occurs only in South Africa from the Cape to Delagoa Bay, enters estuaries, where it lives among weeds, also found down to 60 fathoms. Closely related to Chaetodon striatus Linn., an Atlantic species. * For 605a and 605b, see Appendix, p. 506. PLATE 30 584 Pomacanihus semicirculaliis, right, li ins., left, 15 ins. 585. inimiciitaliis. 6 ins. 588. Centropyge fishen, 3 ins. Pomacanihus imperator, 12 ins. 586. Holacanlhus Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family CHAETO DONTI DAE 237 592. CHAETODON AURIGA Forskal. [Chaetodon setifer Blch., or filamentosu.s Lac., or lunaris Gray.] Literature L 19, 21, 47, 328, 615, 660. Plate 31, p. 239. Depth about U. D Xll XIII 23-26. A 111 20-21. L.l. about 30. 13 14 gill-rakers. 5th, or 5th and 6th, or 6th and 7th dorsal rays filamentous. Attains at least 9 ins. One of the best known, is widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaching as Far south as Mossel Bay. 593. CHAETODON TRIFASCIATUS Mungo Park. Literature L 72, 328, 615, 660. Plate 31, p. 239. Depth about 11. D Xll-XIll 21 23. A III 19-20. L.l. about 38. 13 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, has been found in Dclagoa Bay. Rare in our area. An unmistakable species, but has many synonyms not listed here. 594. CHAETODON UNIMACUI.ATUS (Bloch). Literature L 19, 275, 328, 615, 660. Plate 32, p. 24 i. Depth about 11. D Xlll 22 23. A III 19 20. L.l. about 38. 1 2 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Paeific, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay. Rare in our area. 595. CHAETODON MILIARIS Ouoy & Gai- mard. Literature L 86, 615, 660. Depth about l|. D Xlll 20 23. A III 18 20. L.l. about 40. Almost uniform lemon yellow. Attains 6 ins. A rare species of wide distribution in the tropical Indo-Pacific. Found in Delagoa Bay. 596. CHAETODON MELANOTUS Schneider. ahliortani Cuv.j Literature L 328, 582, 615, 660. Plate Depth about I r,. 0X11 19-20. A III 17-18. L.l. in the Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. Fig. 595. CHAETODOS MILIARIS Q. & G. After Jordan & Fvermann. [Chaetodon dorsalis Rupp., or marginatus Cuv., or 31, p. 239. about 35. 9 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Widespread 597. CHAETODON FALCULA Bloch. Literature L 328, 582, 615, 660. Fig. 597. CHAETODON FALCULA Bl. Actual length 6 ins. 19 238 BONY FISHES — Family CHAETO DONTI DAE Depth about 1|. D XII-XIII 24-28. A HI 19-23. L.l. about 25. 12 gill-rakers. ^j,ove, yellowish below and behind. Fins yellow. Dark marks as shown. Attains 8 ms. Widespread in trop'^^^^ Indo-Pacific, has been found at Delagoa Bay. Rare in our area. Specimens wanted. 598. CHAETODON I.UNULA (Lacepede). Literature L 4, 14, 305, 328, 615, 660. Plate 31^ p. 2^9, juvenile and adult. Depth about IL D XII 23-25. A III 18-20. L.l. about 38. 13 gill-rakers. Attains at g ins. The young have a black ocellus on the caudal peduncle and another on the soft dorsal. Widespread in the tropi^^'** Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as East London, not uncommon here. The living fish is a magnificent object- resembling a disc of molten gold, impossible to portray. The young are also incredibly beautiful. 599. CHAETODON VAGABUNDUS Linnaeus. [Chactodoii pictus Forsk. or decu.ssatus Cuv.] Literati't® L 19, 47, 328, 584, 615, 660. Plate 31, p. 239. Depth about U. D Xll-Xlll 23-26. A 111 20-22. L.l. about 35. II gill-rakers. Attains 8 ips. Wide¬ spread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Durban, not abundant here. 600. CHAETODON KLEINTl Bloch. [Chactodoii virescens Kaup.,'/«i'c.9avi.s- Kaup., tmdasiontus KauP'> or cingula t us Fowler.] Literature L 19, 21, 47, 72, 326, 615,660. Plate 32, p. 241. Depth about 1|. D Xll-Xlll 22-25. A 111 17-20. L.l. about 32. 13 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Sometimes a broad dark cross-bar from spinous dorsal to pelvic, and another wider from soft dorsal to anal. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, not uncommon, 601. CHAETODON LINEOLATCS Cuvier. [Chaetodon wlii Blkr.] Literature L 275, 615, 660. Plate 39, p. 255. Depth about li. D Xll 24-28. A 111 20-21. L.l. about 23. 12 gill-rakers. Attains at least 12 ins., probably the largest species. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far as Delagoa Bay. Rare in our CHAETODON LiNEOLATUs Cuv. area. .Actual length 10 ins. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 602. CHAETODON GUTT.ATISSIMUS Bennett. Literature L 86. 326. 615. Plate 32, p. 241. Depth 1-|. D Xlll 20-23. A HI 17-20. L.l. about 40. 12 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. A rare species poorly known and often confused with others. Known from India, Red Sea and the east coast of Africa. Taken in Delagoa Bay by explosives. A gorgeous sparkling jewel when alive. Specimens wanted. Fig. 603. CHAETODON CHRYSURUS (Desj.). Actual length 5 ins. 603. CHAETODON CHRYSURUS (Desjardins). [Chaetodon xanthurus Bleeker, or mertensii Cuv.] Literature L 86, 326, 615, 660. Plate 32, p. 241. Depth 1|. D XII-XHl 21-22. A III 16-18. L.l. about 33. 12 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Central Indo-Pacific, extends to our east coast, taken at Durban and Delagoa Bay. A rare and lovely fish. Specimens wanted. r rvYTV Fw> BONY FISHES— Family ACANTHURIDAE 239 604. CHAETODON GUNTHERI Ahl. Litera¬ ture L 86, 301, 660. Depth about 1|. D XIII 22-23. A 111 18-20. L.l. about 40. 12 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. A rare East Indian species poorly known. A single specimen taken by depth charge in 60 fathoms off Delagoa Bay. Colour in life unknown. Specimens wanted. 605. CHAETODON XANTHOCEPHALUS Bennett. [Chaclodon nigripinnis Peters or nigro- pinnatus Desj.] Literature L 72, 328, 383, 615. Plate 32, p. 241, juvenile and adult. hia- 604. CHAETODON GUNTHERI Ahl. Actual length 5 ins. hig. 606. CHAETODON RLACKfWRNH Desj. .luvenile at 1.) ins. Depth I h D XIll-XIV 25-27. A III 23-24. L.l. about 40. Varies in colour from juvenile to adult. Attains at least 8 ins. A rather rare species of the tropical Indian Ocean, reaches as far south as Durban. Specimens wanted. 606. CHAETODON BEACKBURNH Desjardins. Literature L 21, 172, 582, 615. F*late 32, p. 241. Depth about IJ. D XVI 22-23. A III 16-18. L.l. about 40. 10-1 1 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Known only from the east coast of Africa and Mauritius, has been found as far south as the Bashee. Rare, specimens wanted. Family ACAN'FHLRID.AE SURCEONKISHES: LANCETFISH ES: TANG: UNICORNFISHES Body moderately elongate or deep, compressed, witFi thick leathery skin, covered with small usually rough scales. Small mouth with incisors, no teeth on palate. Fins normal, caudal truncate or lunate, lobes sometimes elongate. At base of tail one or more bony plates or spines. The young are usually without scales, almost cir¬ cular, silvery and transparent, and so different from the adults that they were once thought to be quite different fishes {Acro/u/nis). These curious fishes abound in all warm seas, mainly about reefs, from which they scrape their food. Few attain any size. In colour some are dull, but a few quite handsome. Though not generally favoured by Europeans, all are edible and important food-fishes of tropical seas. Live fishes lash about with the tail and those with spines can inflict severe wounds. TFiese rather purely tropical fishes are virtually unknown south of Zululand, and have no common names in South Africa. 6 genera recognised, 4 in our area. A. I sharp erectile spine at caudal base. 1. Teeth rather broad, fixed. {a) 3 Pelvic rays . ... . Paracunthurus (607) (h) 5 Pelvic rays . ... ... . Acanthurus {60S-6\2>) 2. Teeth slender, movable ... ... ... ... ... Ctenoc'haerus (6\4) B. 2 plates at caudal base, may bear spines ... ... ... ... . .Vaxu (615-617) Genus Paracanthurus Bleeker, genotype the single species. Teeth fixed. 3 soft rays in the pelvics. An erectile spine at caudal base. One species. 6«7. PARACANTHURUS THEUTHIS (Lacepede). [Acanthurus or Paracanthurus lamhdurus Gill.] Litera¬ ture L 86, 248, 328, 606, 615. Plate 33, p. 244. Depth about 2. D IX 19-20. A III 18-19. 7 short gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins. Rather rare but wide¬ spread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay* A lovely creature. 240 BONY FISHES— Family ACANTHV RIDAE Genus Acanthurus Forskal, genotype Chactodou sohol Forsk. Teeth fixed. 5 soft pelvic rays. An erectile spine at caudal base. Many species in all warm seas, abundant about reefs, some strikingly marked, all able to vary shades. Identification not always easy even for the expert. 6 species in our area, all but one illustrated, identified by markings. The caudal spine is dangerous in live fishes. 608. ACANTHL'RLIS TRIOSTEGOS (Linnaeus). [Teiitliis or Hepatus triostegus, or Jasciatus Schn., or australis Gray, or hirudo Benn., or pcutazona Blkr., or samhichcnsis Fwlr., or troughtoni Whitley.] Laiicetfish. Tang. Literature L 14, 43, 47, 328, 606, 615. Plate 33, p. 244. Depth about 1|. D IX-X 21-25. A 111 19-22. 16 short divided gill-rakers. Caudal spine short. Attains 10 ins. Found in numbers about reefs and in rock pools almost everywhere in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, abundant on our east coast as far south as Zululand, reaches the Bashee. The transparent almost circular young drift as far south as Port Alfred. 609. ACANTHURUS UINEOL.UTUS (Valenciennes). [Hepatus or Tcuthis lineolatus or atramentatus J. & E.] Literature L 4, 162, 461, 606, 615. Plate 33, p. 244. Depth about 2. D IX 24-25. A 111 23-24. 15 feeble gill-rakers. Coloured and marked something like No. 614, but the teeth are flat and fixed. Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, fairly abun¬ dant. Not uncommon as far south as Durban. 610. ACANTHURUS LINEATUS (Linnaeus). [Teuthis or Hepatus lineatus, or striatus Q. & G., or viitatus Benn.] Literature L 86, 105, 328, 606, 615. Plate 33, p. 244. Depth about 2. D IX 26-27. A 111 25-27. 11 short gill-rakers. Colour and pattern variable, but unmistakable. Attains 8 ins. Widespread but not abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches Delagoa Bay. Impossible to reproduce the glowing shades of the living fish. 611. ACANTHURUS FULIGINOSU'S (Lesson). [Teuthis or Hepatus fuliginosus, or nuitoides Val., or annularis Val., or xanthopterus Val., or melanurus Val., or hipunctatus Gnthr.] Literature L 47, 305, 328, 461, 606, 615. Plate 33, p. 244. Depth about 2. D IX 25-28. A 111 24-28. Colour variable, always dark. One of the largest species, attains 25 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. not uncommon at Delagoa Bay, reaches Durban. 612. ACANTHURUS NIGRICANS (Linnaeus). [Teuthis or Hepatus nigricans, or gahm Rupp.] Litera¬ ture L 88, 150, 606. 615. Plate 36, p. 250. Depth about 2. D IX 23-28. A 111 22-28. 14 15 feeble gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, rare in our area. 613. .4C.ANTHL RUS B.4RIENE (Lesson). [Teuthis or Hepatus hariene. or argenteus Gnthr., or dussumieri Val., or mununifer Val.] Literature L 88, 147, 606, 615. Plate 33, p. 244. Depth about 2. D IX 24-26. A Ill 23-25. 13 feeble gill-rakers. Colour \ariable. Sometimes a black spot behind the eye. An unmistakable species. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Ctenochaetus Gill, genotype Acanthurus strigosus Benn. Teeth long and thin, freely movable. A sharp erectile spine at base of tail. One species. 614. CTENOCH.4ETUS STRIGOSUS (Bennett). [Acanthurus strigosus. or ctenodon Val., or striatus Klunz. Teuthis striatus Klunz.] Literature L 47, 275, 328, 606, 615. Plate 33, p. 244. Depth l|-2. D VIIL IX 26-29. A III 22-27. 16 feeble gill-rakers. Always dark, but markings variable. Attains 12 ins. Widespread and abundant about reefs in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal. PLATt 32 594. Chaetodon uniinaciilalus, 3 ins. 600. ( hucloiltm klcinii, 5 ins. 602. ( hacladoii gutiulis.sintii.s, 5 ins. 603. C hticft uloii c/tnsurus, 5 ins. 605. Chaetodon xanihocephaliis. right, 8 ins., left, 3i ins. 606. Chaetodon hhichhiintii, 3 ins. Actiuil length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family ZANCLIDAE 241 Genus Naso Lacepede, genotype Chaetodon unicornis Forskal. At caudal base 2 bony plates which may bear sharp bony keels. Small mouth with compressed serrated teeth. Only 2 anal spines. The young are almost circular, silvery and transparent, with vertically elongated scales. With growth many changes occur, notably often with the development of a grotesque horn on the forehead, the purpose of which is not known. Mostly dark fishes, some reach a fair size. Numerous Indo-Pacific species, 3 in our area, distinguished by form and colour. 615. NASO BREVIROSTRIS (Valenciennes). [Prionolepis hewitti Smith.] Unicorn Fish. Literature L 59, 86, 275, 328, 606, 615. Plate 34, p. 246, 4 growth stadia. Depth li-3, lessens with age. D V-Vl 28-29. A II 26-29. 9 short gill-rakers. Colour varies from greenish to brown. The development of the frontal horn shows clearly in the illustrations. Attains 20 ins. Wide¬ spread but not abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, the young drift as far south as Algoa Bay, rare in our area. 616. NASO UNICORNKS (Forskal). [Naseus or Monoceros unicornis, or fronticornis Lac., or anginosus BIkr., or ohvaceus Val., or longicornis ■Cu\., or amhoiensis Blkr.] Unicornfish. Literature L 86, 150,606,615. Plate 34, p. 246. Depth 2-2.1, lessens with age. D V-VI 27 30. A II 26-29. 9 short gill-rakers. Colour always dullish. Attains over 20 ins. Widespread but nowhere abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. 617. NASO LI I URATUS (Forster). [Monoceros ecornis Rupp., or garretti Seale.) Literature L 88, 127, 275, 606, 615. Plate .36, p. 250. Depth 2J-3. D VI 28 31. A II 28 32. 9 short gill-rakers. No frontal horn at any stage. The plates at the tail bear sharp bony knife-like keels with forwardly directed points. Attains 18 ins. Nowhere abundant but widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacilic, found from Durban northwards, rare in our area. Family ZANCITDAE TOBY: MOORISH IDOL Deep compressed body with small rough scales. Mouth small with slender bristle-like teeth, none on palate. 3rd dorsal spine filamentous, longer in the young. A single genus Zanclus Cuvier, genotype Chaetodon cornutus Linn. 2 species of the tropical Indo-Pacific, closely related and often confused, both in our area. These curious fishes are treated with great respect by some eastern peoples. If one is taken in the nets they bow to it and return it carefully to the water. A. No spine above angle of mouth ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... cornutus B. A spine above angle of mouth ... ... ... ... .. ... ... ... canescens (6X9) 618. ZANCLUS CORNUTUS (Linnaeus). Toby. .Moorish Idol. Literature L 129, 275. 326, 607, 660. Plate 34, p. 246. Body about as deep as long. D VII 39 42. .A III 31 33. 1st 2 dorsal spines short, 3rd in young up to twice total length, shorter with age, 4th 7th spines long also, graded shorter. Horn above eye increases with age. Attains 9 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, frequenting reefs in shallow water, wanders as far south as Knysna. A lovely rather pompous little fish. 619. ZANCLUS CANESCENS (Linnaeus). Toby. Moorish Idol. Literature L 129, 326, 607, 613, 660. Body about as deep as long. D VII 38-41. A III 32-35. 1st 2 dorsal spines short, 3rd in young up to twice total length, shorter with age, 4th-7th long also, graded shorter. An outward and backwardly directed spine above angle of mouth. Colour something like that of No. 618. Attains 4 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, much less common than No. 618, one specimen as far south as Mossel Bay. 242 BONY FISHES— Families HIST/OPTERIDAE and MENIDAE Family HISTIOPTERIDAE BOARFISHES Strongly compressed body with small rough scales. Head rather rough, sometimes horn-like protuberances Fin spines well developed. Small mouth with fine teeth in jaws, none on palatines, sometimes on vomer. Lateral line normal. Rather curious fishes of southern seas, mostly from deep water, everywhere rare, seldom seen Flesh excellent, but all specimens should be preserved for scientific purposes. 3 genera. A. 4 dorsal spines . Hisiiopicn8, 635, 660. Fig. 638. KYPHOSUS CJ.S’ERASCENS (Forsk.). Actual ength 6 ins. Depth about 2]. D XI 12. A HI 11-12. L.l. with about 60 tubules. Tr. 10 18. 18-20 gill-rakers Dusk^ ark, or brownish. Attains 18 ms. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found from Durban north wards, rare in our area. I ) i FW^. PLATE 34 61'' A'avo brevirostris left at li ins., centre at 21 ins., right at 4 ins., below at 18 ins. 616. Naso unicornis, 10 ins. 618' Zanclus cornutus 6 ins. 639. Kvphosus higihhus, 8 ins. 642. Pempheris oualensis, 6 ins. 645. Coracinus multifasciariis, 9 ins. 646. Neoscorpis lithophilus, 8 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family PEMPHERIDAE 247 639. KYPHOSUS BIGIBBUS Lacepede. [Pimelepterus fuscus Lac., or indicus Cuv., or fallax Klunz. Kyphosus fuscus.] Bluefish. Rudderfish or Chub. Literature L 45, 171, 635, 660. Plate 34, p. 246. Depth about 2’. D XI-XII 12-14. A III 11-13. L.l. with about 65 tubules. Tr. 12/20. 18-20 gill-rakers. Dull, dusky or brownish, but occasionally golden, usually stripes along the scale rows. Attains at least 30 ins. in tropical waters. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon as far south as East London, extends to the Cape. Flesh good. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family PEMPHFIRIDAE SWEEPERS Deep compressed body of characteristic shape. Scales fairly large, cycloid or ctenoid, easily shed. Eye relatively large, greater than interorbital. Mouth usually oblique with small teeth in bands in jaws and on palate. Dorsal short, elevated, anal long. Rather small fishes, mainly of shallow tropical waters, often in shoals, some in the western Atlantic, most in the central Indo-Pacific. A few extend to 50 fathoms. This group is in need of proper revision with adequate material not available here. There is much confusion in scientific literature and positive identification is barely possible at present because of the multiplicity of artificial species. For convenience 2 genera are admitted here. A. Less than 30 anal rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Parapriacanihus (640) B. More than 30 anal rays . Pempheris (641 643) Genus Parapriacanihus Steindachner, genotype Parapriacanihus ransonneti Stndnr. Preopercle smooth. Anal with less than 30 rays. .Scales mostly ctenoid. A few Indo-Pacific species, 1 in our area. 640. PARAPRIACANIHUS GUENTMERl t Klunzinger). [Parapriacanihus or Parapcmphcris arpcntcus von B.] Literature L 96, 580, 628, 660. Depth about 2|. D V 9. A II III 22-23. L.l. 75. T r. 7 20. Teeth in single row and on palate. Silvery with yellow sheen and black spots. Caudal tips dark. Attains 3 ins. Tropical east coast of Africa, once found off Natal in 33 fathoms. Genus Pempheris Cuvier, genotype Pempheris touea Cuv. Preopercle spiny at angle. Anal with more than 30 rays. .Scales ctenoid or cycloid, often with smaller basal auxiliary scales. A number of nominal species, no two workers at present in agreement about the definition of many. Mostly Indo-Pacific, one species is known from the Atlantic. 3 species provisionally accepted here, any but the expert may find it sufficient to track the genus. A. 36 37 anal soft rays . schwenki (641) B. 39 or more anal soft rays. 1. Pectoral base and top of dorsal black . oualensis (642) 2. Pectoral base and top of dorsal light . moluca (643) 641. PEMPHERIS SCHWENKI Bleeker. Literature L 326, 580, 628. Depth about 2. D VI 9-10. A III 36-37. L.l. 45. Tr. 3/14. Uniformly fine teeth in a band in each jaw. Brownish, with silvery-rosy sheen. Base of pectoral, top of dorsal and tips of caudal dark. Attains 5 ins. An East Indian species once recorded from Natal (doubtful). Fig. 640. PARAPRIACANTHUS GUENTHER! (Klunz.). After von Bonde. 248 BONY FISHES— Family CORACINIDAE 642. PEMPHERIS OUALENSIS Cuvier. [Pempheris otaitensis Cuv., or adustus BIkr., or Liopempheris russcdlii Day.] Sweeper. Literature L 47, 326, 383, 628, 660. Plate 34, p. 246. Depth 2 2L D VI 9 10. A III 39-45. L.l. 55 -65. Tr. about 4' 15. 20 21 gill-rakers. Outer teeth somewhat larger than inner. Greyish, with pink or rosy sheen. Attains 8 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Natal, not common in our area. Excellent bait and quite good eating. 643. PEMPHERIS MOLUC.A Cuvier. [Pempheris nnwgida Blecker.j Literature L 14, 19, 21, 54, 3'>g 628, 660. Depth 2|-2J. D VI 9. A 111 40 45. L.l. 60 65. 20 gill-rakers. Grey with coppery sheen. Fins rosy, without black markings. Attains 6 ins. Widespread but not abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacitie occasionally seen as far south as Durban. Family CORACINIDAE The GALJOEN Fishes Fairly deep body covered with small rough firmly adherent scales, which extend over all but the front of the snout and cover the fins also. The mouth is small, with strong curved incisors, smaller teeth within, also molariform pharyngeal teeth used for crushing shellfish. Gill-membranes fused with isthmus. Only one genus, Coracinus Gronow, genotype Dipterodon capensis Cuv. Contains two shore fishes of moderate size, typically South African, possibly of Indo-Pacific origin. 644. CORACINUS CAPENSIS (Cuvier). [Dipterodon or Dkhistius eapensis. Diehisliiis fa/eurns Smith.] Galjoen (Cape, general). Highwater or Damba (Eastern Cape). Blackfish or Black Bream (Natal). Literature L 4, 14, 33, 66, 73, 83. Fig. 644. CORACIMS CAPE\SIS (Cuv.). .Above, juvenile at I in. Left, at 2i ins. Right, adult at 20 ins. Depth about 2]. Interorbital greater than eye. D X 18-19. A 111 13 14, front soft rays variably elevated in each fin. L.l. 60-64. 13-15 gill-rakers. Snout alone scaleless. Almost black from among rocks, to bright silvery from sandy areas, sometimes mottled, or with 7-9 dark cross-bars of uniform width. .Xveraee 3 lbs rare above 10 lbs., largest known 16 lbs. Found only from Walfish Bay round the Cape to Natal, in shallow water, even m the fringe of turbulent surf, rarely enters estuaries. Comes close inshore at hiizh tide, hence the name “ Highwater ". A powerful swimmer, able to turn in a breaking wave, quite often seei^in waves surging over rocks, has m that way taken a bait cast in error on to an expo.sed rock. Probably the first typical fish to be noticed by the early settlers, might well be selected as a marine emblem to rank with the Springbok and the Protea. Feeds largely on mussels when these are available, but freely also on various weeds, eagerly consumes Crustacea and most lowly forms of life. Taken mostly on Red Bait, and fights gamely. At times in winter appears m shoals and up to 100 have fallen to one rod in a few hours, but is becoming scarce in much fished ocahties. Not everywhere esteemed as a table fish, flavour improved by bleeding. The banded form once described as a separate species, falcatus, is more common eastwards. PLATE 35 29%-d.Mynpnslisadusliis 9\m. (>20. Histiopterus spinifer, \0 \ns. (>2\. Quinquarius capensis 5 ins 622 Pipudn Pe>^‘^cerosr;chardso^ 2 ,ns. 623. Mene n,acqla,a, 4 ms. (,25 Secu, or ilidiLr, 5 ins.^ "wT. nZpa t tl bZ9. Oerres oyena, 9 ms. 902a. Siganus slel/atus, 7 ms. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Families SCORPipAE and PENTAPODIDAE 249 645. CORACINUS MULTIFASCIATUS (Pellegrini- [Dicliislius mullifasciatus. Drepanoscorpis gilchrisli Fwlr,] Banded Galjoen or Bastard Gaijoen, or Damba (Ecistern Cape-Natal). Ntombielitye (Xosa). Literature L 19, 66, 5.^7. Plate 34, p. 246, Depth about Ij. Interorbital greater than eye. D X 21-23. A 111 13-14, front soft rays elevated in each fin. L.l. about 70. 14-15 gill-rakers. Snout alone scaleless. Average 8 ins., largest 13 ins. Found only on our cast coast, is rare west of East London, more plentiful northwards to Madagascar. Nowhere abundant, frequents shallow water among rocks, takes Shrimp, Prawn or Red Bait, captured mainly in deepish gullies or pools at low tide. Flesh good. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family SCORPIDAE Fishes of the tropical surf, with fairly deep bodies, tough skin and small firmly adherent scales. Teeth in bands in each jaw, with outer row enlarged, pointed. Most abundant in the Pacific, notably about Australasia. Only one species in South Africa, in the genus Neoscorpis Smith, genotype the single species. The air-bladder divides behind. 646. NEOSCORPIS LITHOPHILUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Scorpis Pithophilus.] Butterfish (Transkei). Stone Bream or Stone Fish (Natal). Pan Galjoen (Bredasdorp). Literature L 43, 47, 59, 615. Plate 34, p. 246. Depth l-2\. D Vl-VIII 20-22, front part of soft fin elevated. A 111 23-26, soft fin elevated in front. Snout blunt. Mouth small. 12-1 3 gill-rakers. L.l. 90-97. Silvery grey, the young with dusky cross-bars. Attains at least 20 ins. Found only in South Africa. Occasionally reaches Agulhas, known at Knysna, not uncommon near East London, and present in great numbers about reefs and rocks in Natal, Zululand, and further north. .At home in surf, the young abound in rock pools, and penetrate to shallow water. A typical vegetable feeder with black intestinal cavity. Readily takes shrimp or prawn, also Redbait, and alTords good sport on light tackle. Flesh quite good. Family PENTAPODIDAE Characterised by a noticeably large eye, few knob-like gill-rakers, and always 10 dorsal spines. Caudal forked. Fine teeth in groups in each Jaw, with a few enlarged canine-like teeth in front of each. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal and anal. Related to the Sparidae and to the Lutianidae, these tropical Indo-Pacific fishes rarely penetrate our area. 3 genera have been found here and the 4th will most likely be discovered. .A. Teeth at side of jaw conical. 1. Lower canines flare outwards. {«) Outer surface of maxilla smooth (h) Outer surface of maxilla rough 2. Lower canines normal B. Teeth at side of jaw all rounded molars ... Pentapodus (647) Gnathodentex (648) Gymnocranius (649) Monotaxis (650) Genus Pentapodus Quoy & Gaimard, genotype Pentupodus villa Q. & G. Small fishes of the Indo-Pacific. Depth 2i-3. D X 10. A 111 10. With moderate scales. External face of maxilla smooth. Lower canines flare outwards. One species Pentapodus dux (Valenciennes), ( No. 647), is known from Madagascar, and will likely be found in our region. Genus Gnathodentex Bleeker, genotype Pentapus aurolineatus Blkr. Outwardly flaring canines, and maxilla with external rough bony ridge. One species. 20 250 BONY FISHES— Family PENTAPO Dl DAE 648. GNATHODENTEX AUROLINEATUS (Lacepede). [Pentapodus auroPmcatus.] Literature L 78, 81,328,635,660. Plate 36, p. 250. Depth 25. Interorbital about equals eye. D X 10. A 111 8-9. L.l. about 75. Tr. 6 20. 6 gill-rakers. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal and anal. 4 elose-set canines in upper jaw. An outwardly flaring canine on each side of front of lower jaw. with smaller pointed teeth between. Smaller sharp teeth within and on sides in each jaw. A strong serrated bony ridge on ma.xilla. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. Flesh good. Genus Gymnocranius Klunzinger, genotype here designated Deiue\ priseus Schl. No outwardly flaring canines, outer edge of maxilla smooth. One species in our area, possibly the only one. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 649. GYMNOCR.ANIGS GRISEUS (Schlegel). [Dentex or Cymiwcraitius rohinsoni. Gymnocranius ruppellii Brnrd.] Literature LSI, 635, 660. Depth 2J. D X 9-1 1. A 111 9-10. L.l. 47-50. Tr. 6 18. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal and anal. Snout normal in juveniles, becomes steep with age, and mav develop a prominent bulge between the eyes. The eye appears to become larger in adults. 6 moderate canines in front of each jaw, conical teeth at sides, and fine teeth within. Juveniles are silvery olive, marked as shown, while adults arc almost uniform brown silvery with a bar through the eye. Attains at least 20 ins. Found throughout the tropical Indo-FAicilic. not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, reaches Natal, rare further south. Usually taken in nets or on lines, with prawn or fish-bait, flesh good. Genus Monotaxis Bennett, genotype Monotaxis indica Benn. Blunt snout, eye large. Molariform teeth at side of jaws. One species. 650. MONOT.AXIS GR.ANDOCULIS (Forskal). Levovangan (East Indies). Literature L 86, 461, 635 660. Plate 36, p. 250, juvenile. Depth 2J. D X 10. A III 9. L.l. 45. Tr. 6 14. No scales between eyes or on preopercle flange. 6 canines m upper, 4-6 m lower jaw, with 6-7 molars on each side of each jaw. 5 gill-rakers. Adults with conspicuously heavy heads are silvery grey to brown above, often with variously coloured spots about the body Fins reddish bps yellow. Juveniles as shown in Plate 36. Attains 30 ins. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, but rare m our area, known from Delagoa Bay. An important and good food-fish of the tropics, quite abundant in some parts. *. ■>‘'‘* V ,■ ' . • '.3 - - ' tf ' • >. ' •<,.' ' - i ’. ■<: v.-1-jiVt 'M --I . * ' '•! *- 'V - ‘ ' - ^-i'/t ; - • , 'f-> • V; -•‘l-'-'S^- - - ' .' ' -::-x " '■’■ 4;' ' i V,J., .-t^'^'a/-,.. • ■> ’ • •s.'-i'v;'' a';', "-'t • -- I PLATE 36 612. Acanlhiinis nigricans, 1 I ins. 617. ,\aso liturauts, 10 ins. 648. Gnathodemex aurolineatus, 9 ins. 650. Monotaxis grandoculis, juvenile, 9 ins. 651. Etelis carhuncuJus, 18 ins. 653. Pr^tipomoides fUamentosus. 30 ins. Actual length stated in each case. PLATE 37 662. Lutianus gibbus, above at 9 ins., below at 30 ins. 663. Luiiaiuis sanguineus, left at 6 ins right at 36 Ins 664. Lutianus argentimaculatus. 24 ins. 668. Lutianus ianthinuropterus. 6 ins. Actual length stated in each case! BONY FISHES— Family LUTfANlDAE 251 Family LUTIANIDAE SNAPPERS Body moderately compressed to robust, with moderate or small ctenoid scales. Dorsal with 10-12 spines. Mouth fairly large with canine teeth, fine teeth on palate also. Preopercle sometimes serrate. Caudal truncate, emarginate or forked. In this family are grouped many dilTerent types, and they are mostly active predaceous fishes found in warm seas of all oceans. Almost all are valued as food, some occurring in numbers, and of econo¬ mic importance, many are fine game fishes, though few attain a great size. In tropical waters they are found in most environments, and many enter and live in tidal estuaries. Many species are beautifully coloured. Especially abundant in the Indo-Pacific, a number are found in our area, falling in 7 genera. A. Interorbital Hat, 1. Hind dorsal spines markedly shorter... 2. Dorsal spines more or less uniform. (a) Pectoral about half head length {h) Pectoral about head length B. Intcrorbital more or less convex. 1. Soft dorsal not scaly basally. {(i) Yellow with red cross-bars (/)) More or less uniform dull. (i) Caudal normal . (ii) Caudal with long pointed lobes 2. Soft dorsal scaly bastilly . Eteli.s (651) Aprion (652) Pristipomoides (653) TropkUnius (654) Aetiasis (655) Apsilus (656) Lutianus (657-67 1 ) Genus Etelis Cuvier, genotype the single species. Rather enlongate body. Interorbital naked, flat. Dorsal spines decrease posteriorly forming a notch before the soft dorsal. An Indo-Pacific form. 651. ETELIS CARBUNCULUS Cuvier. [Etelis evurus J. & E., or marshi J. & E.] Literature L 7, 628, 655. Plate ,36, p, 250. Depth about 3?. D X-XI 1 1. A 111 8. L.l. 47-50. Tr.6l3. 10-14 gill-rakers, some rudimentary. Attains 40 ins. A brilliant creature, a fine sporting and table fish. Found in most warm seas, rare in our area, known from the Bashee to Delagoa Bay. Genus Aprion Valenciennes, genotype the single species. Elongate body. Interorbital naked, flat. Mouth large, with canines. F^ectorals short. Hind dorsal spines more or less uniform. An Indo-Pacific form. 652. APRION VIRESCENS Valenciennes. [ \f esoprion microchir B\kr.] Kaakap ( East Indies). Literature L 86, 461, 628, 660. Depth about 4. DXll. A 111 8. L.l, 45-49. Tr. 7/14. 13-14 gill-rakers. Mainly bluish. Attains 40 ins. An Indian Ocean form, widespread in the East Indies where it is a well-known food-fish. Not uncommon olf Delagoa Bay, once found at Knysna. 252 BONY FISHES— Family LUTIAMDAE Genus Pristipomoides Bleeker, genotype Pristipomoides typus BIkr. Elongate, rather robust body. Inter¬ orbital naked, flattened. Pectorals elongate. Mouth large. Hind dorsal spines almost uniform. Several nomi¬ nal species from the Indo-Pacific, probably only one valid. 653. PRISTIPOMOIDES FILAMENTOSOS (Valenciennes). [Pristipomoides sieho/dii .1. & R.. or micro- lepis Blkr., or argyrogrammiciis Val., or tvpus Blkr., or Apnoti brevirostris C. & V. Afesopnoii or Anthias miillidens Day.] Voga (Portuguese). Literature L 47, 72, 328, 628, 660. Plate 36, p. 250. Depth about 3|. D X 1 1. A III 8. L.l. 60-65. Tr. 7 15. 16 18 gill-rakers. Attains over 40 ins. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as East London. A tine sporting fish and is e.xcclicnt eating. A common food-fish in Portuguese East Africa. Genus Tropidinius Poey, genotype the single species. Rather compressed body. Intcrorbital convex. Soft dorsal naked with low sheath. A single species. Eor full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Eamily and read there also. 654. TROPIDINIUS ZONATUS (Valenciennes). [Eie/is or Apsilus zonatus. Serrunus teljciiri Benn., or hrighami Seale. Rooseveltia hrighami or aloha J. & S.J Literature L 86, 383, 461, 628. Plate 39, p. 255. Depth about 2|. D X 10. A 111 8. L.L 63 65. Tr. 7 16. 1112 gill-rakers, some rudimentary. Attains 20 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, nowhere abundant, found in Delagoa Bay, a lovely fish. Genus Aetiasis Barnard, genotype the single species. Rather ovate body, not much compressed, with small scales. Mouth small, with small teeth. Head scaly except snout, maxilla usually scaly. Only one species. 655. .AETIASIS C.4NTHAROIDES Barnard. Bawka (Portuguese). Literature L 7. Depth about 3. D X 9. A Ill 8. L.L about 72. Tr. 9 18. 19-20 gill-raker.s. Slaty-blue Above L 1 from origin of soft dorsal backwards, yellow, extending into caudal lobes. Attains 20 ins. Known only from Durban to Delagoa Bay, not abundant, caught by lines from reefs, flesh not much esteemed. Genus Apsilus Valenciennes, genotype the single species. Eairly elongate body. Interorbital convex not scaly. Soft dorsal and anal not scaly. Caudal lobes pointed. One species of tropical waters. PLATE 38 659 Lutiavus fuhiflamma, 6 ins. 661 . Lutianus johni, 10 ins. 666. Lutianus rivuhtus, abow al l ins. below at 20 ins. 669. Lutianus vaigiensis, 9 ins. 670. Lutianus rangus, 10 ms. Actual length stated in each case. t:' BONY FISHES— Family LUTIANIDAE 253 656. APSILUS FUSCUS Valenciennes. Literature L 4, 240, 628, 655. Fig. 656. APSILVS FUSCUS Val. After C. & V. Depth about 3. D X 10. A III 8. L.l. about 65. Tr. 7/16. Teeth on vomer and palatines, none on tongue. Pectoral about head length. Caudal lobes longer than head. Brownish, dorsal with dark mottlings. Attains .30 ins. Occurs in the tropical Indian and eastern Atlantic oceans, rather rare. Once found in Delagoa Bay. Specimens wanted, none in South Africa. Genus Futianus Bloch, genotype l.uiianus lutianus Bloch. Body moderately elongate, moderately compressed. Mouth large, usually with widely spaced moderate or strong canines in front. Small teeth on vomer and pala¬ tines, sometimes also on tongue. Preopercle margin serrate, sometimes with a deep notch receiving a bony knob of the interopercle. This genus holds an assemblage of varied forms which need revision and sub-division, which has often been attempted but so far not successfully. Mostly of tropical seas, many are fine sporting fishes and almost all are valued as food. Some attain a fair size. Considerable changes in colour and shape occur with growth. These are the true “Snappers". When taken from the water, convulsions of the muscles of the dying fish cause the jaws periodically to “snap” shut with such force that the canine teeth may be driven to the bone in any incautious hand probing the mouth, and to open the locked jaws requires great force. Such bites, though at the time rather agonising, usually heal easily unless the hand was dirty. 15 species in our area, distinguished conveniently mainly by markings and colour. A. Brilliant yellow with blue stripes on body. 1. 4 blue stripes and a black blotch 2. 5 7 blue stripes, no blotch ... ... . . B. Not as in A. 1. Large oval dark patch on Rank over L.l. («) Scale rows above L.l. oblique. 2 species illustrated, distinguished by colour . (h) Scale rows above L.l. parallel with L.l. . 2. No dark patch on L.l. (a) Almost uniform red. (i) Scale rows above L.L oblique . . (ii) Scale rows above L.L parallel with L.l . (h) Red with black cross-bars . (<•) Wavy lines on head (d) 2 silvery blotches on side ... . . (e) Yellow or darker streaks along side, 4 species, all illustrated, dis¬ tinguished mainly by markings and colour . kasmira (657) duodecimlineatus (658) Julv’iflamma (659) russellii (660) Johni (661) gihhus (662) sanguineus (663) argentimaculatus (664) sehae (665) rivulatus (666) bohar (667) janthinuropterus (668) vaigiensis (669) rangus (670) lineolalus (67 1 ) 254 BONY FISHES— Family LUTIANIDAE 657. LUTIANUS KASMIRA (Forskal). [Lutianus (juinquelinealu.s BIch., or octoHneatus BIkr,, or hen- galensis BIch., or spilurux Benn. Diacope kasniira, or hcngafoisis.] Snapper. Taiida- I'aiida (East Indies). Litera¬ ture L 19, 47, 328, 501, 628, 660. Plate 39, p. 255. Depth about 2|. D X 13 16 (Abnormally D XI). A III 8. L.l. about 50. Tr. 10,17. 15 gill-rakers, some rudimentary. Deep notch in preoperele. Attains 15 ins. A handsome fish, widespread in the tropical Jndo-Pacific, not uncommon in Natal, occasionally reaches East London. Colour varies from olive-green to bright canary yellow, with vivid cobalt blue stripes. 658. LUTI.ANUS DUODKCI.MLINE.ATUS (Valenciennes). Literature L 7, 19, 45, 154, 628, 660. Plate 39, p. 255. Depth 2j. D XI 13 14. A III 7 8. L.l. 52 55. Tr. 9/17. 12 13 gill-rakers. Deep notch in preoperele. Attains 12 ins. Found only from Natal to Madagascar, not common. Colour variable according to environ¬ ment, from olive to brilliant canary yellow. 6)59. IjUII.ANLIS FULVTFL.AMM.A (Forskal). [Mesoprion or Lulianus chrenhergii Ptrs., or oUgolcpi.s 'Alkr., or aureoriitatus MoLy., or mckmesiue Scale.] Spot Snapper. Jeiioar (East Indies). Literature L 14 19. 21,54,328,628. Plate 38. p. 252. Depth 2^*. DXI3 14. A HI 8 9. L.l. 46 50. Tr. 7/14. 7 9 obvious gill-rakers. Preoperele feebly notched. Attains 12 ins. Widespread and abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, enters estuaries in shoals, penetrates as tar south as East London. Bites freely on shrimp, provides good sport for young anglers. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 660. LLTL4NUS RUSSELLII (Bleeker). Literature L 321, 541, 628, 660. Plate 39, p. 255 Depth 25. D X 14-15. A II 8. L.l. about 50. Tr. 7/17. 8 gill-rakers. Feeble notch in preoperele. Attains 15 ms. A gorgeous fish, widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. 661. LUTIANUS JOHN! (Bloch). [Lutiemus uninuiculatm Q. & G.. or vapiUi Cuv Literature L 47, 328, 628, 660. Plate 38, p. 252. or pavoninus Val.] Depth 2 = . DX 13-14. A III 8-9. L.l. 45-48. Tr. 6 12. notch in preoperele. Scale rows all horizontal. Attains 15 ins Indo-Pacific, extends to Natal. Rarely seen in our area. 12-13 gill-rakers, some rudimentary. Shallow Widespread but not abundant in the tropical 662. LUTIANUS GIBBUS (Forskal). [Diacope or Lutianu.s hononen.sLs Cuv., or Wi.v/.v Cuv., or ro.sea ., or wc/fl/iMz-fl Rupp.] Red Snapper. 1 andoh (East Indies). Literature L 321 3'>g 550 piat^ -57 p 151 All ""T" ' *'• r^eep notch in preoperde' R.V Th in the tropical Indo-Pacific. rarely reache^s dLco a Bay. The flesh has caused severe poisoning, should not be eaten. ^ a^d tl'u^effoXt - DeL'goaX. rhand^n:; PLATE 39 462. Opiegnaihui robinsoiti, juvenWe. 3 ins. 601. Chaetodon lincv/arus, 10 ins. 654. Tropktiniui :onatus, 14 ins. 657. Lulianus kasmira, 6 ins. 658. Lutianui duoilecimlinealus. 9 ins. 660. Liitia/tus russellii. 9 ins. 671. Lutianus lineohtns, 6 ins Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES-Family LUTIANIDAE 255 664. LUTIANUS ARCiENTIIVIAClJLATUS (Forskal). [Mesoprion or Lutianus gemhra Bl., or griseoides Sauv., or gcirrelti Gnthr., or obscurus Mcly., or salmonoides G. & T.] River Roman or n’Kulu-n’Kulu (Transkei). Red Snapper or Red Salmon (Pondoland). Rock Salmon (Natal). Jenoar (East Indies). Literature L 43, 47, 127. 321, 328, 383, 628, 660. Plate 37, p. 251. l-ig. 664. LUTIANUS A RC.ENTI M ACULATUS (torsk.). Actual length 30 ins. Depth 2^. D X 13 15. A III 8-9. L.l. 40 47. Tr. 7/14. 9-12 gill-rakers, 2-4 mere knobs. Feeble notch in preopercle. Young have whitish cross-bars, adult almost uniform. Alive, often blood-red, sometimes silvery pink, darkens to a deep red after death. Attains 36 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, common in Natal, extends to East London but rarely. A fine game fish, enters estuaries freely, takes most baits. A noted “ Snapper " with strong canines. Flesh excellent. 665. LL TIANL'S SF.BAE (Cuvier). Red .Snapper, .lenoar (East Indies). Literature L 32 1 , 328, 628, 660. Plate 97, p. 413. Depth 2J. D XI XII 15 16. A III 9-11. L.l. 45-50. Tr. 10 20. 12 gill-rakers. Deep notch in preopercle. Attains 40 ins. Widespretid in the tropical Indo-f^actfic, reaches Delagoa Bay, not uncommon there. A fine angling and table fish. 666. LU TLANL'S RIVLT..\TUS (Cuvier). [Dkicope or Lutianus coeruleopunctatus Cuv., or alhogutlatus VaL] Literature L 14. 21. 321, 328, 628, 660. Plate ,38, p. 252, juvenile and adult. Depth 2]. D X 15 16. A III 8-9. L.l. 40 45. Tr. 8 17. 13 gill-rakers. Fairly deep notch in pre¬ opercle. Attains at least 24 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacific, occasionally reaches Natal, nowhere common in our region. 667. L LIT A MIS BOHAR (Forskal). [Luiianus h’pisaurus Lac., or quadriguttatus Cuv.] Mylah (East Indies). Literature L 19. 47. 321, 328, 628, 660. Depth 2.1. D X 14 15. A III 8 9. L.l. 48-52. Tr. 8 17. 14 gill-rakers. Feeble notch in preopercle. Bronzy above, lighter below. 2 oval light spots on side. Base of pectoral and pelvic rosy, otherwise fins dusky. Attains 30 ins. Widespread but not abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, rarely seen in our area, reaches Durban. 256 BONY FISHES— Family LUTIANIDAE 668. LUTIANUS JANTHINUROPTERUS (Bleeker). [Mcsoprion or Lutianus UnecUus Q. & G.] Literature L 19, 47, 321, 328, 628, 660. Plate 37, p. 251, juvenile. Fig. 668. LUTIANUS JASTHISUROPTERL S mu-.). ,\diilt. .Mtci Hicckor. Depth 2] juvenile to 2i adult. D X 13-14. A III 8. L.l. 46-50. Tr. 8 16. 13 15 gill-rakers. Slight notch in preopercle. Adults light mauve, with yellow streaks along side. Pectorals and pelvics yellow. Attains 30 ms. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, but rare in our area. Resembles No. 669, but the preopercular notch is feeble. 669. LUTIANUS VAIGIENSIS (Quoy & Gaimard). [Lutianus miii’icn.m, or flavipcs Val., or aurantiacus C. &l\., or nuirginatus Cu\.] Snapper. Taiiibak (East Indies). Literature L 4, 47, 32 1 . 328, 628, 660 Plate 38 p. 252. . , , . - , Fig. 669. LUTIANUS l AIGIE.XSIS (Q. & G.t. .\ctual length 9 ins. A 2o!?e^sil^ lO-l I gill-rakers. Preopercle deeply notched. Hof uneZmf ■ r 24 'ns. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as the Bashee. not uncommon in rock pools, but difficult to capture. 670. LUTIANUS RANGUS (Cuvier). Depth 2|. D X 13-14. A III 8-9. 12 ins. Widely distributed in the central beautiful fish. Literature L 86, 660. Plate 38, p. 252. L.l. about 50. Tr. 7 18. Feeble notch in preopercle. Indo-Pacific, but nowhere abundant. Found at Delagoa Attains Bay. A LINEOL.ATUS (Ruppell). Literature L 86, 328, 628, 660. Plate 39 p ^55 Depth about 3. D XI 12-13. A III 7-9 L I 45-50 Tr 7 1 ^ I6i« ii r \ in nreonercle The k a a i ■ u ’ • ■ Ir. 7 13. 16-18 gill-rakers. No obvious notch lndo!S hal Le„ , *' in the tropie.nl ractic, has been found not uncommon in Delagoa Bay. Moves about in shoals. BONY FISHES— Families NEMIPTER/DAE and POMADASYIDAE 257 Family NEMIPTERIDAF: Rather elongate body with fairly large scales, easily shed. Mouth moderate, with rows of small conical teeth, a few small canines in front. No teeth on palate. Pelvics and upper caudal lobe sometimes with fila¬ mentous rays. Preopcrcle flange naked. Caudal forked. Rather small brightly coloured shapely fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacifie, the flesh of some reputed to be poisonous. One genus, Nemipterus Swainson, genotype Nemipterus filamentosus (Cuv.), with numerous species not easy to distinguish, 2 in our area. A. 3 rows of scales on cheek ... ... ... . clelagoae (672) B. 4 rows of scales on cheek ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... smithii (673) 672. NEMIPTERUS DEEAGOAE Smith. Literature L 78, 81 . F’late 21, p. 203. Depth about 3.V. D X 9. A 111 7. L.l. 49-50. Tr. 4 9. 7 short spiny gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins., so far found from Delagoa Bay to Beira, not uncommon. Impossible to portray the delicate opalescence of the live fish. 673. NEMIPTERUS SMITHII (Steindachner). [Dentex or Syna^ris smilhii.] Literature L 635. Depth about 3. D X 9. A 111 7. L.l. 50. Tr. 4 13. 6 small canines in front of upper jaw. Silvery rose, darker above, with orange band along body, fading behind, another, fainter, along dorsal base. V-shaped violet streaks on body. Only one specimen, length not stated, recorded as from the Cape in 1868. Not again found here. Family POMADASYIDAE GRUNTERS Characteristic fishes of small or moderate size, with rather small mouth and feehle teeth. A pit beneath the chin. Prcopercle margin serrate. Dorsal and anal spines usually strong, caudal not deeply forked. Found in shallow waters of all warm seas, many entering estuaries, most are silvery or olive to dusky. They are named "Cirunter" because out of the water spasms of the throat muscles cause the pharyngeal teeth to rub together pro¬ ducing a rasping grunt. The larger species are excellent game and table fishes. 2 genera in our area. A. At most one faint stripe along the body ... ... ... ... .■ Pomachsys (674-619) B. Distinct stripes along the body ... ... ■ . • • • Rhonciscu.s (6W 6)i2) Cienus Pomadasys Lacepede, genotype Sciaenu aryenlca Forsk. Body silvery, plain or with spots, blotches or cross-bars, at most one faint stripe along body sometimes present. 6 species in our area, easily distinguished. .A. Plain silvery or olive. 1.7 8 anal rays ... ... . 2. 1112 anal rays ... B, Dark cross-bars or series of large dark blotches. 1 . A black blotch on opercle . 2. No blotch on opercle .. . C. Many small dark spots, no bars or lines. 1. Spots on head distinct . 2. No spots on head 674. POMADASYS (H ORAKA Russell. [Prisli- poma guonika.] Literature L 14. 321, 328, 628, 660. Depth 2J. D XII XIII II 14, A 111 7 8. L.l. 43 50. Tr. 6/12. 1 2 1 5 gill-rakers. Snout fairly blunt. Brownish above, silvery below, sometimes a faint stripe along the body. Attains 18 ins. Comes from Indo- Vlalaya, found on our east coast, but rarely reaches Durban. 675. PO.MADASYS OLIYACEUM Day, Previously wrongly named as Pomadasys hennettii Lowe, which is the same as incisus Bowdich. Varkie (Knysna). Rock-Grunter. Pinky (Natal). Literature L 14, 87, 328. Plate 40, p. 258. Fig. 674. POMADASYSGUORAKA Russell. .After Sleeker. guoraKa to / olivaceum (675) hasia (676) maculatiis (677 ) midrimaculatum (678) operculare (679) 258 BONY FISHES— Family POMADASYIDAE Depth 2J. DXII15 17. A III 11 12. L.l. about 55. Tr.8;l5. 13 1 5 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Known from Indo-Malaya. Has colonised our coast as far as False Bay, plcntil'ul in tidal estuaries. Takes almost any bait including its own flesh. Occurs at times in shoals, much preyed upon by voracious fishes, excellent as bait. Grunts continuously when taken from the water. At Knysna when cold water appears (.sec p. 8), this species is thrown ashore in great numbers. Too small for a table fish, the flesh rather insipid. 676. POMAD.VSYS HASTA Bloch. [Piistiiwma ha.sta.] Silver Criintcr. Literature L 14, 19, 47, 328, 628, 660. Fig. 676. POMA DASYS HASTA BIch. Left, juvenile 8 ins. Right, adult at 17 ins. Depth about 24. Interorbital equals eye. D XITXllI 13 15, spines very strong. ,A III 6 8. L.l. 46 50. Tr. about 7 II. 12-13 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. Comes from the tropical Indo-Pacilic and reaches as far south as Xora River, entering estuaries, but nowhere plentiful in our region. For some time after removal from the water emits rasping grunts rather like a man clearing his throat. Flesh excellent. 677. POM.AD.AS^’S M.ACLL.AI'US Bloch. [Pristipoma maculalum.] Koneador (Portuguese), (irunter. Literature L 4, 14, 321. 328, 628, 660. Plate 40, p. 258. Depth 25. DXll Xlll 12 14. .A III 7 8. L.l. 52 56. Tr. 7/13. 13 14 gill-rakers. .Attains 1 8 ins. Comes from the Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal, not abundant there, but quite common in Delagoa Bay and further north. Flesh fair, softens rapidly, but is an important food-fish of the poorer classes in tropical areas. 678. POM.AD.ASVS MUL I IM.\CL!L.\TIM (Playfair). [Pristipoma multimacululum.] Bull or Cock- Grunter (Natal). Literature L 47, 275, 628. Plate 40, p. 258. Depth 21-2|. DXll 13. A III 7. L.l. 50 54. Tr. 6/14. 12-13 gill-rakers. Attains 30 ins. So far found only on our east coast from Natal northwards, also in estuaries. Nowhere very common, easily recognised by the spots on the head. A good game fish with excellent flesh, eagerly takes prawn, but will also bite on fish bait. Gives a harsh grunt. PDM.AD.ASYS OPERCUL.4RE ( Playfair). [Pristipoma opcrculare. Corvina pimctata Knoor- haan(Cape). Tiger (Eastern Cape). Spotted Grunter (Natal). Purple Grunter ( Delagoa). Roncador ( Portuguese). nKonkolo (Xosa). Literature L 14, 19, 47. 67, 275, 628. Plate 40, p. 258. Depth 3-3J. D X-XI 13-16. A III 8-10. .All spines strong. L.l. 56 60. Tr. 9 19. 15-17 gill-rakers. Pig-hke mouth. Average 4 lbs., largest 25 lbs. Occurs in all temperate and tropical waters of the Indian Ocean. In our area is found in tidal estuaries of the southern Cape coast during summer only, while from Algoa Bay east and northwards it is present in estuaries and in the sea all the year, mostly near river mouths. A closely related species occurs in the warm waters of the west coast. Openularc may well have originated in tropical African seas and spread to India. This is the best known and most outstanding of our Grunters, and is a fine game fish, but wary and easily scared by noise, certainly in Cape estuaries. Often seeks food in shallow water on banks, where it blows small creatures from holes in mud or sand, during which operation the tail may wave above the water. Hooked fishes blow out the bait with such force that it is often shot far up the line. Takes prawn, crayfish, razor-shell, sea-lice and marine worms, also cheese and bacon, rarely fish bait. Flesh delicate and tasty, improved by bleeding the fish. The serrated preopercle edge can inflict deep cuts. Grunts loudly and continuously when taken from the water. Easily killed by cold water (p. 8). See Appendix. I ! i F } ■ I I f 675 PonuukisYS o/ivaceum, 6 ins. 677. Pomin/asvs maciilaniiii. 6 ins. 678. Pomadasys mullimaculaliim, 10 ms. 679 PonuukisYS opcrctikire, 28 ins. 680. Rlionciscus strialu.s. 8 ins. 682. Rhoncisciis anas. 13 ins. Actual length stated in each case. PLATE 40 BONY FISHES— Family POMADASYIDAE 259 Genus Rhonciscus Jordan and Evermann, genotype Pristipoma crocro C. & V. Characteristically silvery, with stripes along the body. Mostly small fishes, 3 species in our area, easily distinguished, all rare. A. 3 stripes along body. 1. Bar on opercle . striatus (680) 2. Round dark blotch on opercle ... ... ... ... ... . stridens B. 4 or more stripes, usually double . anas (682) 680. RHONCISCUS S'FRIATUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Pristipoma or Pomadasys striatum.] Stripe Grunter (Natal). Literature L 4, 43, 47, 628. Plate 40, p. 258. Fig. 680. RIIONCISCU.S STRt.ATUS (G. & T.). Actual length 8 ins. Depth 2J. Interorbital equals eye. D XI Xll 13 14. A III 6 7. L.l. 58 60. Tr. 10 42/24. .Scale rows below L.l. run back and upwards. 10 1 1 gill-rakers, plus a few rudiments in the young. Usually bright silvery neat smooth body, stripes dark brown. Largest 9 ins. Found only in South .Africa from Knysna to Beira, rather rare, taken down to 20 fathoms, sometimes thrown up after storms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 681. RHONCISCU.S S'l RIDENS (Forskal). [Pomadasys or Pristipoma stridens.] Literature L 19, 72,628. Fig. 68F RHONCISCUS STRIDENS (Forsk.). Actual length 3 ins. Depth 3 -3]. Interorbital less than eye. D Xll 13-16. A 111 7-8. L.L 51-57. Tr. 7-8 13 14. Scale rows below L.l. horizontal. 14-15 gill-rakers. The young usually silvery, when older somewhat darker brownish above. Attains 18 ins. An Indian species not often seen south of Delagoa Bay, where the young are not un¬ common, and may easily be mistaken for a Pelates (No. 402). 260 BONY FISHES— Family SCOLOPSIDAE 682. RHONCISCUS ANAS (Valenciennes). [Pomcidasys or Pristipomu taeuiophorus Rgn.] Previously wrongly named as Pomadasys furcatum (Schneider). Grey Grunter (Natal). Literature L 4, 47, 52, 87. Plate 40, p. 258. Fig. 682. RHONCISCUS ANAS (Val.). Actual length 12 ins. Depth 21 D XII-XIII 14-16. A III 7-8. L.l. 54-58. Tr. 6/16. 10 12 gill-rakers. Attains 20 ins. Found only on the east coast of Africa to Madagascar. Rare south of Dtirban, prefers sandy ground near rocks. An uncommon capture in our area, flesh good but softens rapidly. Family SCOLOPSIDAP: Normal fishes with rather large scales, characterised by a backwardly directed spine on the siiborbital bone, which is also serrated below. Always 10 dorsal spines. In some ways related to the Ludanidae (651-671). Rather small mostly brilliantly coloured fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific, falling into 2 genera, both in our area. About 20 species are known in the tropics, but 4 only just penetrate our region. A. Suborbital spine distinct . Scolop.sis (683-685) B. Suborbital spine feeble . Paniscolopsis (686) Genus Scolopsis Cuvier, genotype Sco/opsis ctiritc Cuv. Suborbital spine quite distinct. Mouth small, with small slender teeth in bands in each jaw, none on palate. Gill-rakers few, short and widespaced. 3 species in our area, easily distinguished by markings. 683. SCOLOPSIS VOSMERI (Bloch). [Scolopsis japonicus Bl., or kurite R upp., or lonpuiliis Cuv.] Passir-Passir (East Indies). Literature L 63. 86, 328, 628, 660. Plate 41, p. 261. Depth about 2|. D X 9-10. A III 7-8. L.l. 38-41. Tr. 4 11. 6 knob-like gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins. An unmistakable glowing beauty of shallow waters, widespread in the tropical areas of the Indo-Pacific. Extends south to Delagoa Bay, not uncommon there. 684. SCOLOPSIS BIM.ACUL.ATLS Ruppell. [Scolopsis taeniatus Val., or a (finis Peters.] Literature L 86, 328, 628, 660. Plate 41, p. 261. Depthabout 21. D X 9. A 111 6-7. L.l. 45. Tr.5 12. 5 small gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Probably widespread in the tropical Indian Ocean, reaches as far south as Delagoa Bay. not uncommon there in shallow water, mainly among weeds. 685. SCOLOPSIS GHANAM (Forskal). Literature L 86, 328, 628, 660. Plate 41, p. 261. Depth 2f. D X 9. A III 7. L.l. 45. Tr. 4 14. 5 small gill-rakers. Attains 8 ins. A beautiful fish of the tropical Indo-Pacific, rarely reaches as far south as Delagoa Bay, more abundant northwards. Genus Parascolopsis Boulenger, genotype Parascolopsis townsendi Blgr. Sub-orbital spine feeble, barely obvious. Gill-rakers either short, few and isolated, or longer, close-set and spiny. (Sub-genus Parascolopsoidcs nov., type eriomma J. & R.) Mouth small, with fine slender teeth in bands, outer series enlarged, like small canines. One species in our area. » \ Irf ’. ■** ^ ( b , ' * J !**’ - F I >. ’• I ^ « - > v- t ^ ■■' ’ ^ « t r^' tKH • it n >4 fT PLATE 41 683, Scolopsis vosmeri, 9 ins. 684. Scolopsis hiniaculalii.i, 7 ins. 685. Sco/opsi.i gliaiwni, H ins. 686. I’arascohwth eriomma, 10 ms. 687. Caeiio caerulaiiieui, 7 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Families CAESIODIDA E and ELECTORHYNCHIDAE 261 686. PARASCOLOPSIS ERIOMIMA (Jordan & Richardson). [Scolopsis eriomma.] Literature L 86, 552, 628. Plate 41, p. 261. Depth 25. D X 9. A III 7. L.l. 35. Tr. 3 11. II moderately long close-set spiny gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Previously known only from India and Japan, is not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, taken in shallow water among weeds, also haunts rocky areas. Colours showy but delicate, the live fish a shimmering gold and pink beauty. Flesh excellent. Family CAF.SIODIDAE Rather elongate body with moderate scales. Mouth small, with fine teeth, none on palate. A single dorsal, fin spines slender. A distinct bony process on the premaxilla sliding beneath the maxilla, clearly visible inside the mouth. Small fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific, 3 genera, only 1 in our area, genus Caesio Lacepede, genotype C'aesio caerulaiireus Lac., with soft dorsal and anal sub-equal, and scales in horizontal rows above and below L.l. Several species, one in our area. 687. CAESK) CAERLJl.AURF^US Lacepede. [Caesio striatus Rupp., or maculatus Cuv.] Pisang (Malay). Literature L 4, 55, 321, 628, 660. Plate 41, p. 261. Depth about 3J. D X 14-15. A III 11-13. L.l. about 65. Tr. 7 15. 25 gill-rakers. A lovely fish. Attains at least 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred. Nowhere abundant, is by no means a rare fish, often taken in drag-nets from the shore. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family PLECrORHYNCHIDAE Fairly compressed body with moderate or small scales. A single dorsal ol 9-14 spines, sometimes very strong, and 15-25 rays. Anal short. Mouth small, lips usually thick. Feeble teeth in bands in jaws, none on palate. Distinct pores on chin. Preopercle margin serrate. Scale counts are difficult, as the rows are irregular, and not all scales in the lateral line bear tubules. Indo-Pacific fishes mainly of warm rather shallow water, mostly of moderate size. Though good eating they are nowhere abundant. Mostly taken in drag-nets, a few of the larger species are captured by lines in deeper water. Omnivorous, take almost any bait. Some are strikingly marked and well coloured but both colour and markings change widely with growth, so that numerous artificial species have been created, rendering positive identification difficult in some cases. A revision of this croup is needed. 4 genera are recognised here. The type genus Plectorhynchus Lacepede occurs only in the central Indo-Pacific. ■A. 9-10 dorsal spines ... ... ... •. ■ ■ • Spilotichthys (688) B. II dorsal spines ... . ■ •• •• Pluchus (689) C. 12 14 dorsal spines. 1. Spines strong . Pseudopristipoma (690-691) 2. Spines normal .. ... • • ■■■ Gaterin (692-697) Cienus Spilotichthys Fowler, genotype the single species. 9-10 dorsal spines, the 1st abruptly short. Very small scales. A single species. 688. SPILOI KTi rHYS PICTLS (Thunberg). [Plectorhynchus or Diagramma pictus, or punctatus Cuv.] Literature L 4, 321, 328. 580, 628, 660. Plate 42, p. 263, juvenile and adult. Depth 2.'. 3. D IX X 21 25. A III 6-7. 90-110 series of scales. 11-14 gill-rakers. Young with 2-3 broad bands along the side, which with growth gradually diminish and break into spots. Adult is greyish, spotted. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches just south of Durban. While not often seen is not uncommon in our area. Flesh palatable. Genus Pluchus nov., genotype the single species. 11 dorsal spines, the 1st not markedly short. Caudal truncate. An endemic genus. 22 262 BONY FISHES— Family PLECTORHYNCH! DAE 689. PLIJCHIJS CHUBBI (Regan). [Plecwrhynchus cinihhi.] Literature L 19, 21, 55, 628. Plate 42, p. 263. Depth about 25. DXI 15-17. A 111 7-8. L.l. about 65 tubular. Tr. 1 5-1 8 above L.l. 21-23 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. So far found only from Port St. Johns to Delagoa Bay, mostly in shallow water among rocks, nowhere abundant, not often seen. Genus Pseudopristipoma Sauvage, genotype Pristi/wma leiicunim Val. 13 14 strong dorsal spines. Body rather deep, with fairly large scales. Two species described, possibly identical. A. Uniform dark B. Oblique cross-bars nignix (690) playiodcsmus (691 ) 690. PSEUDOPRISTIPOMA NICRl S (Cuvier). [Pristipoma or Diagramma or Plccto- rhrnchus uiyrus. Diagramma or PIcclorhyncInis crassispinus Rupp.] Literature L 4, 47, 240, 321, 628. Depth about 2. D XIII XIV 13 18. A III 7-8. L.l. about 50. Tr. about 1 1 18. 18 20 gill- rakers. A rather dull coloured fish, widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, rare in our area. Attains 25 ins. 691. PSEUDOPRISTIPOMA PLAGIO- DE.SMLIS ( Fowler). [PIcctorhynchus plagiodesnnis.] Literature L 21. Plate 42, p. 263. Depth 2L D XIV 15. A 111 7. L.l. 48. Tr. 11-15. 17 gill-rakers. So far known only from the single type, 16 ins. in length, taken in St. Lucia estuary, possibly identical with No. 690. Fig. 690. PSEL’DOrRISTIPO MA MGRUS (Cuv.). .‘VcUial length 5) ins. Genus Gaterin Forskal, genotype Sciacna gatcrina Forskal. 12 14 dorsal spines, of moderate strength, the 1st not very short. Moderate scales. Body not markedly deep. Shallow water species of the tropical Indo- Pacific, mostly variable in markings and colour, changes also with growth, so that artificial species have been created by workers with limited material. Hence identification of some stadia is difficult. 6 species, 2 doubtful, admitted here. A. No stripes or close lines of spots along body. 1. Uniform grey or with light cross-bars 2. Many orange spots . B. With stripes or lines of spots along body. 1. Rows of dark spots ... ... . 2. Stripes along body. A number of doubtful species fall here, those recorded from our area being sc/ioia/ (692) retictdatus (693) gatcrinus (694) Hneatus (695) diagramnuis (696) faetida (697 692. G.ATERIN SCHOT.AF ( Forskal). [Plectorhynchus or Diagramma schotaf , or gri.scus C uv.. or durhancn.se Glch.] Greyskin (Natal). Peixe Batata (Portuguese). Literature L 43. 628. Plate 42. p. 263. Depth 2J-2|. D XII-XIII 18-23. A HI 7-8. L.L 55-60 tubular. Tr. about 12/20. 16- 18 gill-rakers. Attains 36 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, nowhere abundant. Rarely exceeds 20 ins. in our area, penetrates as far south as the Umtata River, usually taken on prawn in sandy areas. Good eating. 693. G.ATERIN RETICUL.ATUS (Gunther). [Diagramma or Plectorlivncluis rericulalus ] Literature L 4, 14, 240, 549. Plate 42, p. 263. Depth 23-3. D XII Xlll 18-21. A III 7-8. L.L about 60 tubular. Tr. about 13/23. 17 20 gill-rakers. Attains 15 ins. in our waters. Some workers have thought this species identical with No. 692, but that is not likely, as both forms, dearly marked, may be found from the earliest stages. Found from Natal south coast northwards, probably confined to the African coast. £•-. 4''9a ’■w.^^mmm.- . • *il' j ' '’v i ■’S'f -T**. I ' •'■ ; J-'"* ^ ‘<3' '. ^ w,/ -• •> ' t’ r JK, ' PLATE 42 688. Spilotichihys pictus, above, juvenile, 5 ins., below, adult, 14 ins. 689. Pliichiis chubhi 4 ins pnsliponia plagioik’inuis, 16 in^. 692. Gateriii sclwlaf. IS ins. 693. Oalcrin rclki/lalus, <) ms'. 694.’ 7 ins. Actual length stated in each case. 691. Pseiiko- Ocitcrin gutcrinus, BONY FISHES— Family PLECTORHYNCH! DAE 263 694. GATERIN GATERINUS Forskal. [Diagramma or Plectorhynclius gaterinus.] Literature L 86, 628. Plate 42, p. 263. Depth about 2L D XII-XIII 19-20. A III 7-8. L.l. about 70, about 14 above L.l. 17-18 gill-rakers. Attains 16 ins. With growth the spots become irregular. Found only on the east coast of Africa from Delagoa Bay northwards, rare in our waters. 695. (LATERIN LINEATUS (Linnaeus). [Diagramma or Plectorhynchus lineatus.] Literature L 86, 628, 660. Hg. 695. GATERIN LINEATUS (Linn.). Actual length 3) ins. Depth about 2J. D XII-XIII 18 21. A 111 6-8. L.l. about 60 tubular. Tr. 13/20. 19-20 gill-rakers. Colour variably brown and yellow. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Durban, but not often seen in our area. 696. GATERIN DIAGRAMMUS (Linnaeus). [Diagramma or Plectorhynchus diagramma, or cuvieri Playfair, or lessonii Cuv.] Literature L 86, 628, 660. Depth 2J 3. D Xll-XIll 17 20. A III 7. L.l. 55-60 tubular. Tr. II 14above L.l. 20-21 gill-rakers. Mark¬ ings rather variable, described and figured mostly with 3-7 dark stripes>long the body much like No. 695, from which it is doubtfully distinct. Attains over 20 ins. Widespread in the’tropical Indo-Pacific. Once found at Delagoa Bay. 697. G.A'fERIN FAETEL.A Forskal. [Diagramma or Plectorhynchus Jaelcla.] Literature L 86, 628, 660. Fig. 697. GATERIN FAETELA Forsk. After Sleeker. Depth about 2f. DXllI 18-20. A 111 6-7. L.l. about 55 tubular. Tr. 12-16 above L.l. 19 -20 gill-rakers. Attains 20 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends rarely as far south as Delagoa Bay. 264 BONY FISHES—Family LETHRINIDAE Family LETHRINIDAE SCAVENGERS Fairly elongate body, moderately compressed, characterised by the rather long scaleless snout. Mouth moderate, with rather small teeth, few in front enlarged, caniniform. Palate not toothed in most species, covered with small molars in one genus. Dorsal always of 10 spines and 8-9 soft rays. Scales moderate. Caudal forked. Most species in the Indo-Pacific, one on the west coast of Africa, probably a result of early migration from the east. Small to moderate sized rather brightly coloured fishes of warm shallow water, a few species of con¬ siderable importance as food in warm areas. The flesh is excellent. Sometimes confused with the Wrasses (770 820). In our area only the genus Lethrinus Cuvier, genotype Sparus choerorhynchus Schneider. Palate toothless. Teeth on sides of jaws pointed in young, become rounded with age. One of the most diflicult groups for museum workers, whereas the live or fresh fishes are easily distinguished and identified after brief study. About 20 species recognised in the tropical Indo-Pacific, 6 accepted as having been found here. A. Maxilla reaches about halfway along snout B. Maxilla reaches beyond halfway along snout. 1. Eye about 3 in head. (a) Depth about 3] . (A) Depth about 2| ... 2. Eye 31-4J in head. (a) Depth 2j-2i*. (i) Adult with blotch on side ... (ii) Adult without blotch on side (A) Depth about 31 ... miniatus (698) ycnivittatus (699) AorAonicus (700) luirak (701) neAulosus (702) xaric^cuus (703) 698. LETHRINUS MINI.ATUS (Schneider). [Leihrinux rostratus K. & von M. or longirostri.s Plyfr.j Scavenger. .Mata-Hari (East Indies). Literature L 328, 635, 660. Plate 43, p. 266. Depth 2|-31. D X 8-9. A 111 8. L.l. 44-48. Tr. 5/17. 5- 8 feeble gill-rakers. Attains 36 ins., usually smaller in our area. Widespread and not uncommon throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port St. Johns. Flesh excellent. 699. LETHRINUS GENIVITT.ATUS Valenciennes. Scavenger. Literature L 14, 635, 660, Depth 31. D X 9. A 111 8. L.l. 44 48. Tr. 5/15. 5 feeble gill-rakers. Brownish, mottled, sometimes irregular cross-bars. Attains 12 ins. A rather rare species, occurs mainly in the central Indo-Pacific, has been recorded from Delagoa Bay. 700. LETHRINUS BORBONICUS Valenciennes. Literature L 154, 383, 635. Depth 2|. D X 9. A 111 9. L.l. about 50. Tr. 5/ 14. Yellow-silvery, mouth and fins rosy. .Attains 7 ins. A doubtful species recorded from Delagoa Bay, and islands off the east coast of .Africa. No specimens available. 701. LETHRINUS HARAK (Forskal). [Leihrinus papuensis M.] Literature L 86 635 660 Plate 43. p. 266. Depth about 2|. D X 9. A 111 8. L.l. about 45. Tr. 6/14. 5 feeble gill-rakers. .Attains 20 ins. Wide¬ spread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at reefs and among weeds in Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 702. LETHRINUS NEBULOSUS (Forskal). [LetArinus opercularis Val., or centurio Val., or karwa Val., or alAoguttatus Val., or scoparius G. & T., or devisianus Whit.) Scavenger. Parrot-Fish. .Mata-Hari (East Indies). Literature L 14, 19, 43, 321, 328, 635, 660. Plate 43, p. 266. Depth 2J-2|. D X 9. A III 8. L.l. 45-48. Tr. 6- 7/15-17. 5 feeble gill-rakers. Body deepens and thickens with age. Attains at least 30 ins., average smaller. The most abundant species, is widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. A common food-fish of warmer waters, well known all along our east coast, occasional strays reach East London. Not an uncommon catch on lines in Natal and Zululand waters. The markings and colour cause this fish to be confused with some of the Wrasses (770-820). Flesh excellent. BONY FISHES Families CENTRACANTI DAE and SRARIDAE 265 703. LETHRINUS VARIEGATUS Valenciennes. [Lethrinus semicinctus Val., or latifrom Rupp.] Litera¬ ture L 86, 635, 660. Depth about 3^. D X 9. A III 8. L.l. 43-46. Tr. 5/13. 7 feeble gill-rakers. Rather dull coloured, mainly brown-olive, with odd glints of yellow on the fins. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo- Pacific, nowhere abundant, has been found at Delagoa Bay. Family CENTRACANTIDAE PICARELS Fairly elongate body with moderate scales. Mouth very protrusible, with fine teeth in jaws, and sometimes on vomer. Preopercle margin smooth. Caudal variably forked. Smallish fishes of deeper water related to the SPARIDAE and DENTICIDAE. A few species are found in deepish water of the eastern Atlantic, mainly about the Canaries, where they are of some significance as food. In our area 2 genera, easily distinguished. A. Depth 2 1 -2 ... ... ... ... ... ... . ... Pterosmaris (704) B. Depth 3-3 J ... ... ... ... ... ... . ... Centracantus (lOS) Genus Pterosmaris Fowler, genotype Smarts metanurus Val. Body ovate, depth about 2J. No teeth on palate. No notch before soft dorsal. 2 species, both African, I from equatorial West Africa, the other in our region. 704. PFEROSMARIS AXILLARIS (Boulenger). [Caesio axillaris, or algoae Smith.] Windtoy. Litera¬ ture L 88, 251, 425. Plate 43, p. 266. Depth 2J 2§. D XI 12 13. A III II 12. L.l. 64 70. Tr. 9/18. 19 22 gill-rakers. A single row of fine teeth. Attains at least 14 ins. So far found only from the Cape to Natal in 10-80 fathoms, a rare catch, some¬ times on lines, mostly by trawl, usually comes inshore with stormy weather. Rapidly loses all colour, becoming after death more or less uniform silvery, and the dark spot in the pectoral axil shows up clearly. An easily recog¬ nised fish. Genus Centracantus Rafinesque, genotype Centracantus cirrus Raf. Body rather elongate, depth over 3. No teeth on vomer. Front dorsal spines rather high, giving appearance of notch before soft dorsal. 1 species from tropical West Africa and 1 from our area. 7D5. CENTRACANTUS AUSTRALIS (Regan). [Smaris or Marsis australis.] Picarel. Literature L 21, 39, 572. Plate 43, p. 266. Depth about 3. D XII 9 10. A III 7 8. L.l. 60. Tr. 6/14. 18-20 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. So far found in 100 200 fathoms olT Natal only. Rare in our area. Family SPARIDAE BREAMS: .STEENBRAS: HOTTENTOTS: STUMPNOSES: STOMPNEUSTE Fishes with well-developed fins, the caudal always more or less forked. The dorsal consists of 10-13 usually stout spines, and 10 15 soft rays. Always 3 anal spines. The preopercle margin never serrate. Scales usually feebly ctenoid, the snout never scaly. Teeth conical or incisiform, usually molars also. This family, as well as the related DENTICIDAE, is characterised by an internal feature, a groove in the hinder upper part of the pre¬ maxilla, into which a part of the maxilla fits, being overlapped by the outer flange of the groove. Sparids occur in all but the coldest seas of all oceans, and are usually concentrated along the shore in fairly shallow water. Some enter and live in estuaries, while a few penetrate deeper water. Eishes of this family are among the most important as food, and some are fine sporting fishes, several attaining a great size. The young are often quite different from the adult in shape and markings, sometimes more strikingly and vividly coloured. With 34 species South Africa is rich in Sparids, 21 species being found nowhere else, some of them abundant, and among our best-known fishes. Our species fall conveniently into 3 sub-families. A. A distinct separate group of 4-9 enlarged teeth in the front of each jaw ... ... Sparinae (106-125) B. No front group of enlarged teeth. 1. Outer teeth slight, conical ... ... ••• ■■■ • ... Pagellinae (126-129) 2. Outer teeth compressed, incisiform ... ... . ... Boopsinae (110-11)9) 266 BONY FISHES— Family SPARIDAE Sub-family SPARINAE (706-725) Always a group of enlarged teeth in the front of each jaw, with rounded molars, sometimes many and large, within the outer teeth. The presence or absence of scales between the eyes is an important feature. None of these arc by choice vegetable feeders, most being active and carnivorous, the food mainly Crustacea, mollusca, and small fishes. Some important food-fishes fall here. 10 genera in our area. A. Head between eyes not scaly. 1. 4-6 larger teeth in front of upper jaw. {a) Less than 50 scales in lateral line {h) More than 50 scales in lateral line. (i) Front teeth about equal . (ii) Middle pair of teeth very large 2. More than 6 larger teeth in front of upper jaw. {a) Snout long and pointed . (6) Snout normal . B. Head between eyes wholly scaly. 1. At least 1 dorsal spine longer than head 2. No dorsal spine longer than head. {a) 13 dorsal spines . (6) 12 or fewer dorsal spines. (i) Soft dorsal not scaly . (ii) Soft dorsal scaly at base. (.v) Soft dorsal blackish ... (r) Soft dorsal not black ... Acanlhopagnis (706 707) Rhahdosar^us (708 710) Spurodon (711) Rimtazzo (712) Diplodus (7 1 3-714) Aff^yrops (1 \5 716) Porcostonm (717) Pteroyynums (718) Cynuiloceps (719) Chrysohlcphus (720 725) Genus .Acanthopagrus Peters, genotype Chrysophrys vagus Peters. Dorsal and anal spines strong. Less than 50 scales in lateral line. Preopercle flange and interorbital naked. Rather rodent-like fishes of shallow water of the tropical Indo-Pacific, 2 species in our area, easily distinguished. 706. .\CANTHOP.4GRUS BIF.\SC1.ATUS (Lorskal). [Spams, Pagrus or Chrysohlephus hi/asciatus.] Literature L 19, 47, 74, 328, 635. Plate 44, p. 268. Fig. 706. ACAXTHOPACRVS BJFASCIATUS (Forsk’). Actual length 8 ins Depth 2. D XI 13. A III 10. L.l. about 49. Tr. 5 12. II gill-rakers. A bulge between eyes, head becomes very heavy with age. 6 more or less compressed teeth in front of each jaw-. Base of soft dorsal and anal scaly. Attains 20 ins. Comes from tropical Indo-Malayan waters, rare in our area, occasionally seen at Durban. Habits much like those of No. 707 which is better known here. PLATE 43 698. Lethnnus miniatus, 12 ins. 701. Lethrinus harak, 10 ins. 702. Lethrinus nehulosiis, 13 ins. 704. Pterosmaris axillaris, 9 ins. 705. Centracantiis australis, 9 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES-Family SPARIDAE 267 707. ACANTHOPAGRUS BERDA (Forskal). [Sparus, Paf’rus or Chrysophrys henki. Chrysophrys vagus Peters. Chrysophrys hasta Schn., or calamara Val., or aestuarius G. & T. Chrysophrys or Sparus rohinsoni G. & T. Sparus madaguscariensis Val. Pagrus caffer Castlenau.] Mud Bream. Sly Bream. Picnic Bream (Transkei). River or IMud or Black Bream and River Perch (Natal). Sandela (Native). Literature L 14, 43, 74, 208,251,328,635. Plate 44, p. 268. Depth 2 2g. DXIll 12. A III 89. L.l. 43 47. Tr. 4/10. 4 6 conical teeth in front of upper, 6 -8 in lower jaw. Base of soft dorsal and anal scaly. 9 1 1 gill-rakers. When alive fins have bluish glow. Average 9 ins., largest in our waters 18 ins., attains 30 ins. in tropical waters. Abundant and widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, plentiful in Mozambique waters and in estuaries in Natal and Pondoland, while occasional specimens wander as far south as Algoa Bay. A well-known angling fish, cunning, furtive and wary, rarely taking any bait in clear water in daylight, but often bites freely on most baits towards dusk, fights gamely. Flesh excellent. Variable in form and colour, has often been described under different names, and anglers constantly distinguish different forms, but careful investigation has shown that there is only one species. Genus Rhabdosargus Fowler, genotype Diplochis auriventris Peters. More than 50 scales in lateral line. Interorbital and soft dorsal and anal naked. Preopercle flange naked or with very few scales. 3 species. A. 6 7 narrow dusky cross-bars ... ... ... ... ... ... . ghhiceps (708) B. No cross-bars or at most very faint. 1. Ciolden stripe midway along body ... ... ... ... ... tricuspidens (709) 2. Golden marks on lower surface mainly ... ... ... ... . sarha (710) 708. RHABDOSARGGS CiEOBICEPS (Cuvier). [Sparus or Austrosparus or Chrysophrys globiceps. Sargus nala/ensis Stndnr. Sargus nigrojasciatus Rgn.] White Stumpnose, Witstompneus (Cape). Five-Finger, Vvfvinger (Knysna). Go-I lome-Fish ( Plettcnberg). Literature L 4, 47, 52, 74, 635. I-ig. 708. RHABDOSARGUS GLOBICEPS (Cuv ). Actual length 16 ins. Depth average 2.L D XI II 12. A 111 10-11. L.l. 57 61. Tr. 6 15. Preopercle flange naked. In front of upper jaw 4 6, in lower 4 8 compressed teeth. Fairly powerful rounded or oval molars in each jaw. 7-9 gill-rakers. Mainly silvery with darker markings, cross-bars usually strong. Attains over 20 ins. Found only in South Africa, is most abundant near the Cape. Occurs from our west coast round to Natal, prefers sandy areas, juveniles often in estuaries, adults rarely. Economically important as a food-fish, is taken in large numbers by nets and lines, at the Cape close inshore at nights. A sporting fish on light tackle, taking almost any bait. Flesh excellent. In Plettenberg Bay it is held that when this fish is caught nothing else is about, hence the curious name. 268 BONY FISHES— Family SPARIDAE 709. RHABDOSARGUS TRICUSPIDENS Smith. [Austrosparus iricuspUlens.] Previously conCused with No. 710. Blinkvis (Witsand). Stumpnose or Stonipneus (Knysna). Flatty ( Eastern Cape). Silvio ( East London), Silver Bream or Bream (Transkei-Natal). Mbande (Native). Literature L 82. Plate 45, p. 271. Depth 2]. D XI 12 13. A III 10 1 1. L.l. 55 57. Tr. 7 12. A lew concealed scales on preopcrcle (lange. 7-8 gill-rakers. In front of upper jaw 6, in lower 6 8 compressed teeth, which are tricuspid in small Juveniles. Rounded to oval molars in each Jaw. At nights 5 6 dusky cros.s-bars may show as a nocturnal colour phase. A beautiful shapely fish, found only in South Africa, from the Cape to Zululand, in shallow water, most plentiful between Mossel Bay and East London, abounds in estuaries where it breeds. Average 6 ins., largest 14 ins. Fights well on light tackle, takes almost any bait, prefers marine worms or shrimps. Flesh excellent. 710. RHABDOS.ARGUS S.ARBA (Forskal). [Chrysophrys or Ausirosparus or Spurns sarha. Saryus holuhi Stndnr. Chrysophrys natalensis Castlenau. Spams nataicnsis. Austrosparus or Diplodus aurivcutris Peters. Roiighlcyia tarnhine Whitley.] Yellow-fin Bream, Silver Bream (Natal). Mbande (Native). Literature 1. 14, 19, 47, 74, 82, 328, 635. Plate 47, p. 276. Depth about 2. D XI 12-13. .A III II 12. L.l. 56 59. Tr. 8/13. No scales on prcopercle llange. 7- 8 gill-rakers. In front of upperjaw'4 6, in lower 6 8 compressed teeth, become hetivy and sub-conical in large adults. Powerful rounded to oval molars in each Jaw. Grows to over 25 lbs. Comes from the tropical Indian region, fairly abundant in Zululand waters, occasionally wanders as far south as Knysna in summer. The young abound in estuaries in Natal and further north. .A famed and beautiful angling fish, bites well on most baits, prawn or crayfish being favourites, and fights gamely. Flesh excellent. In large adults the yellow along the belly fades except for a curved mark up and back from the pelvic base. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Sparodon Smith, genotype Saryus durhatieiisis Castlenau. More than 50 scales in lateral line. Interorbital and preopercle flange naked. Pectoral shorter than head. Middle pair of teeth in each Jaw- much enlarged. One species. 711. SP.4RODON DL RB.ANENSIS (Castlenau). [Xu/g//.v or Spams durhancusis.] .Sand Stompkop, Sand Blouer. Mussel Cracker. Mussel Crusher (Cape). Silver Steenbras. Steenbras. Brusher (Eastern Cape- Natal). .Mhlungumenye (Native). Literature L 4, 43, 47, 74. 25 1 , 635. Plate 45. p. 27 1, Juvenile. Fig. V. p. 502, Jaws. Fig. 711. SPARODON DURBANENSIS (Cast.). Actual length 30 ins. / 1 PLATE 44 njciscuiiiii, 0 criMiccps. 10 ins. Actual length stated in each case. .A A'V <:^.. t •..; :' -■rr-:^:'v:*-'.-'=>.fi> ■ ' ■ - . '-■a*'- ;? K .SS.’£^Sjs%^ > ‘V ' '-*4 ?v ift W^^., -^-y fi'-t, ^ ^-i* ' '5^ • , BONY FISHES— Family SPARIDAE 269 Depth 21-3. D XI II 12. A III 10. L.l. 58-61. Tr. 7/14. No scales between eyes or on preopercle flange. Soft anal rays scaly at base. Eye noticeably small. 8-9 gill-rakers. In front of each jaw 4 flattened teeth, mid-pairs much enlarged. Many large round or oval molars in each jaw forming a pavement (see Fig. V, p. 502). Pectorals not longer than head. Greyish, with faint stripes along the body. When alive has a bluish glow in the water. The young fishes are vividly coloured. Attains about 45 ins. Found only in South Africa, from the Cape to Natal, rarely enters estuaries, nowhere abundant, often captured in pairs. Takes almost any bait, is a splendid fighter, one of the best-known angling fishes of South Africa. The flesh is good, but coarsens in large fishes. The characteristic heavy head baked whole is regarded as a delicacy (see note on Mussel Crackers p. 502). Genus Punfazzo Bleeker, genotype Sparus puniazzo Cetti. Snout long, pointed. 8 larger compressed teeth in front of each jaw. One species. 712. PUN FA/./O I’UNTAZ/.O (Cetti). [Sparus or Cliarax puntazzo.] Puntazzo ( Mediterranean). Litera¬ ture L 74, 154, 251, 635, 655. Depth 2. D X-Xl 13-14. A III II 12. L.l. 55-60. Tr. 8/15. Snout protrudes. 9 gill-rakers. Silvery with 6-9 dark cross-bars and a blotch above near caudal base. Attains 15 ins. A fish of the northern Atlantic, only twice found in our area, near the Cape, not really characteristic of South Africa. Genus Diplodus Rafinesque, genotype Sparus annularis Linnaeus. 8-12 inclined teeth in front of each jaw. Interorbital and preopercle flange not scaly. More than 50 scales in lateral line. Fishes of Africa and India, 2 species in our area, easily distinguished. t ig. 712. PUNTAZZO PUNTAZZO (Cetti). After Valenciennes. 713. DlPl.ODUS SAR(;i;S Li nnaeus. [Sargus or Diplodus ronck-Ieiii Val. Sparus sargus. Sargus or Diplodiis capensis Smith.] Das. Dassic (Cape). Kolstcrt. Blacktail (General). Ntimla (Native). Literature L 4, 14, 46. 58, 366, 635. 655. Plate 44, p. 268. Depth 2. DXII 14 15. A III 13-14. L.l. 62-72. Tr. 8 18. 10 gill-rakers. 8 large oblique incisors in front of upper jaw. Very young fishes show fine cross-bars, large adults become almost uniform black. Attains 16 ins. Extends all rotmd Africa, found nowhere else, prefers rocky ground and enters estuaries. A voracious but cunning fish, which when on the feed will take almost any bait, but is not easily hooked in clear water or with coarse tackle. About the best fighter of our inshore angling fishes. It is the author’s considered opinion that weight for weight the Blacktail has twice the vigour of any trout. Hardly of commercial significance. Flesh excellent. 714. DIPl.ODl'S rRIF.\SC'l.ATL',S (Rafinesque). [.S'u/-g(/,v hotlenlotus Smth. Sargus or Diplodus cervinus Lowe.] -Streepdassie, Wildeperd (Cape). Bontrok ( Knysna). Zebra (General). Mbentsu (Native). Literature L 19, 47. 58. 74, 635, 655. Plate 44, p. 268. Depth 2-2[. D XI 12 13. A HI II. L.l. 60 67. Tr. 9 18. 12 oblique incisors in front of upper jaw. Lips rather thick. 9 10 gill-rakers. Young fishes are often bright yellow between the cross-bars. .Attains 18 ins. Extends all round Africa, but nowhere abundant, occurs nowhere else. Rather like No. 713 in habits, but even more wary and dilFicult to hook. Fights gamely on light tackle. Flesh good. Freshly landed emits a power¬ ful rather nauseating odour. Genus Argyrops Swainson, genotype Sparus spinifer Forskal. Interorbital scaly, preopercle flange naked. 3rd dorsal spine, sometimes also 4th-7th, filamentous, longer than head. Front teeth conical, with 2-3 rows of small molars within. Colour reddish. 2 rather rare species. A. 4-5 dorsal spines elongated ... ... ... ... . ... ... spinifer {7 \ 5) B. Only the 3rd dorsal spine elongated . filamentosus {7\6) 23 270 BONY FISHES— Family SPARIDAE 715. ARGYROPS SPINIFER (Forskal). [Sparus, Pagrus or Chrysophrys spimfcr. Payrus dliaris v. Bonde.] Rcdfin. Literature L 14, 47, 74, 80, 328, 635. Plate 45, p. 271. Depth 1^-2. D XI-Xll 10-11. A III 8. L.l. 49-53. Tr. 8 17. 1st 2 dorsal spines short, 3rd-7th elon¬ gated, in young longer than whole fish, relatively shorter in adults. Snout blunt, head becomes heavy with age. Scales between eyes, but preopercle flange naked. 9-10 gill-rakers. Attains 24 ins. Comes from tropical Indo- Malaya, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, and known from Natal, nowhere plentiful. Occasionally reaches as far south as Knysna. Flesh good. 716. .\RGYROPS F1L.4MENTOSIJS (Valenciennes). [Sparus or Pciyrus filamcniosiis.] Literature L 21,74,635. Plate 45, p. 271. Depth 2-2|. D Xl-Xll 9-10. A 111 8. L.l. 51-54. Tr. 7 15. 1st 2 dorsal spines minute, 3rd elongated, 4th slightly. Blunt snout, head becomes heavy with age. Scales between eyes, preopercle flange naked. 9 gill- rakers. Largest 15 ins. Comes from tropical Indian waters, a rare fish, reaches Delagoa Bay, only .seldom as far south as Natal. Flesh good. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and F-'amily and read there also. Genus Porcostoma Smith, genotype Chrysophrys ck’niatus Gilchrist & Thompson. 13 short dorsal spines. Head scaly between eyes. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. One species. 717. PORCOSTOM.^ DENT.4T.\ (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Chrysophrys, Spams or Payriis ilvntatus.] Dane. Natal Roman. Literature L 14, 43, 47, 74, 635. Plate 48, p. 278. Plump body. Depth 2J. D XIll 11. A III 8-9. L.l. 71-73. Tr. 15 26. Preopercle flange partly scaly. 11-12 gill-rakers. In upper jaw 4, in lower 6 projecting canines. Caudal not deeply forked. Attains 12 ins. Occurs only in South Africa, mainly between Durban and Beira, though occasional strays reach Algoa Bay, found down to 60 fathoms. Nowhere plentiful, takes almost any bait. Flesh good. Genus Pterogymnus Smith, genotype Pagrus hniarius Cuvier. 12 dorsal spines. Head between eyes and preopercle flange scaly. Soft dorsal and anal not scaly. Outwardly flaring canines in each jaw. One .species. 718. PTEROGYMNUS LANE4RIUS (Cuvier). [Pagrus, Chrysophrys or Sparus laniarius. Page/lus afer Pappe.] Panga (Cape). Dikbekkie, Reds (Eastern Cape). Literature L 4, 6, 14, 47, 74. 80, 251, 635. F’late 48, p. 278. Depth 22. D XII 10. A III 8. L.l. 56-59. Tr. 8 18. In upper jaw 4, in lower 6 canines, the outer pair in each jaw flaring outwards, 2 series of molars within. Lips villose, almost furry. 12-13 gill-rakers. Attains 16 ins. Found nowhere else, is probably the most plentiful Sparid fish in South Africa, occurs from the Cape abundantly to East London, extends northwards, reaches Beira, but rare there. Normally inhabits deepish water, 10-70 fathoms, taken commonly by trawl and line boats, on any flesh bait. Does not rank as an angling fish. Too small to be a first-rate food-fish, but flesh good. Easily recognised by the furry lips and flaring canines, and the mandibles are cavernous. At times, for about a month, mostly in mid-winler, this fish congregates in certain restricted areas in vast numbers. In one place in 40-60 fathoms off the Tzitzikama coast about 25 miles from the shore a trawler may take as much as 20 tons in less than an hour of trawling. Genus Cymatoceps Smith, genotype Chrysophrys nasurus Castlenau. 12 dorsal spines. Head between eyes scaly, also bases of soft dorsal and anal. Preopercle flange partly scaly. One large species. * 716 ^ > 7°in. nicuspidens, 9 ins. 711. Sparoclon durhanensis, juvenile at 2J ins. 715. Ar^yrons spiniler jn7 •• 'ns. 719. Cv»/on)«;)i na.vwr,«, juvenile, 8 ins. 721. Chrvsohlep%ts Uilin^pi l6 s. 729. Boopsoidea inornaia, above, 8 ins., below, juvenile, 2j ins. Actual length stated in each case. ’ BONY FISHES — Family SPA RI DAE 271 719. CYMAl OCEPS NASUTUS (Castlenau). [Chrysophrys or Sparus or Pagrus na.sulus. Pagrus nigri- pnmis Blgr ] Musselcracker. Musselcrusher. Biskop. Black Biskop. Swart Biskop. Blue Biskop. Blou Biskop. Poenskop. Stompkop (Cape). Blouer or Bank Blouer (Knysna). Witbek. Stembras. Steenbras. Black Steen- bras (Eastern Cape-Natal). Saqomolo (Native). Eiterature L 1 1, 47, 74, 635. Plate 45, p. 271 juvenile. Fie V, p. 502, jaws. i \ , I if;. 719. CYMAIOCPPS NASUTUS (C'aM.). Above, juvenile at 6 ins. Below, left, at 18 ins. Right, at 50 ins (Photo, fi. Ci. Smith.) Depth 2 1 -2.1. I) Xll 10. A III 8. L.l. 61-65. Tr. 1122. In front of upper Jaw 4 large conical teeth, 4-6 in lower. 2 series of rounded molars behind in each jaw, not nearly as massive as those of No. 711 and none oval, (sec Fig. V, p. 502). 10 gill-rakers. Adults develop a large fleshy “nose”. Not uncommon in all sizes up to 50 lbs., attains over 100 lbs. Found only in South Africa, nowhere abundant, it frequents rocky areas from the Cape to Natal, often feeds in shallow water, rarely enters estuaries. Takes almost any bait and fights doggedly, but is not speedy, regarded as one of the premier angling fishes. The flesh of large specimens is coarse. In some parts while the body is cooked for pigs or dogs, the head is retained as a delicacy. Cenus Chrysoblephus Swainson, genotype Spams gihhiceps Cuvier. 11-12 dorsal spines, eyes scaly. Prcopercle flange and bases of soft dorsal and anal scaly. 4-6 canines in each jaw, series of small molars within. 6 species, all more or less reddish. A. A black blotch at base of last dorsal ray . ... ... . B. No blotch at base of last dorsal rav. Triangular light patch on side ... . No triangular light patch on side. (rt) Marked blue line below eye . (6) No blue line below eye. (i) 3rd-5th dorsal spines abruptly long (ii) 3rd dorsal spine shorter than head. (.v) Pectoral bent forward reaches beyond snout tip... (y) Pectoral bent forward does not reach beyond snout tip Head between with 3 or more cristiceps (720) laticeps (721) pimiceus (722) lophus (723) anglicus (724) gihhiceps (725) 720. C'HRVSOBl.EPMU.S C'RI.SriCEPS (Cuvier). [Chrysophrys or Pagrus or Sparus cristiceps] Dageraad (Cape). Redfish. Daggcrhead (Natal). Literature L 74, 83. 276, 635. F’late 46, p. 273, juvenile and adult. Depth 2j. D Xll 10. A III 8. L.l. 59-61. Tr. 10 20. 9-10 gill-rakers. Note marked change in colour and markings from juvenile to adult (see Plate 46). Adults at death one of the most beautiful of all creatures as waves of different colours pass over the body, hence the early Dutch name of Dageraad, i.e. Dawn. Attains 25 ins. Found only in South Africa, from the Cape to Natal. Lives mostly in deepish water on rocky banks, taken in fair number by line boats on almost any bait, most abundant on the south coast. Not often captured by the shore angler. Flesh good. Ill BONY FISHES— Family SPARIDAE 721. CHRYSOBLEPHUS EATICEPS (Cuvier). [Chrysophrys, Pagrus or Spams laUccps. Chrysophrys algoensis Cast. Chrysophrys piigiccphalus G. & T.] Roman or Red Roman (Cape). Daggcrhead (Natal). Literature L 4, 43, 74, 251, 276, 635. Plate 45, p. 271. Depth 2]-2.L D XI-XIl 10-11. A III 7-9. L.l. 58-61. Tr. 9/20. 10 gill-rakers. A blue colour variety is known, but shows the white patch on the side. Attains 18 ins. Occurs from the Cape to Mauritius. Favours rocky ground in decpish water, but is often taken from the shore. Voracious, takes any bait, but sluggish. Flesh good. Fresh from the water is a gorgeous creature. 722. CHRYSOBLEPHIJS PLJNICEUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Chrysophrys puniccus.] Slinger (Natal and Mozambique). Wara-VVara (French Colonies). Literature L 43. 74, 80, 83. Plate 46, p. 273, Juvenile and adult. Depth about 2, adults deeper than young. D XII 10. A 111 8. l. l. 49-52. Tr. 10 18. 14 15 gill-rakers. Note change in shape and markings from juvenile to adult (see Plate 46). Adults have a more prominent hump above the eye, and longer caudal lobes than half-grown fishes. Attains 33 ins. Found only on the cast coast of Africa, in deepish water. Most abundant off Mozambique, probably the most important food-fish there. Apparently occurs in numbers on banks about Madagascar. Smaller specimens plentiful off Durban, odd migrants each East London, very young fishes sometimes found at Knysna. Takes flesh bait, of little angling significance. Flesh quite good. 723. CHRYSOBLEPHUS LOPHUS (Fowler). [X/wnzv lophiis.] Literature L 14, 74. Plate 46, p. 273. Depth 2]. D Xll 10. A III 9. L.L 56-58. Tr. 9 18. 3rd dorsal spine about as long as head. 10 gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins. A rare fish, previously confused with No. 725. Only few specimens ever seen, all from Natal. Little known about this species. Specimens wanted. 724. CHRYSOBl.EPHUS .\NGL1CUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Chrysophrys. Pagrus or Spams a/iglicus.[ Englishman (Natal). Literature L 43, 47, 74, 80. 635. Plate 48, p. 278. Depth 21 D Xll 10. A 111 8. L.l. 65-68. Tr. 10 24. Snout steep. 11 gill-rakers. Attains 42 ins. Found only on the east coast of Africa in deepish water, is most abundant and of largest size off Mozambique. Occasionally seen at East London, not uncommon in Natal waters. Takes flesh bait. F'lesh good. 725. CHRYSOBLEPHUS GIBBICEPS (Cuvier). [Chrysophrys, Pagrus or .Spams gihhiccps.] Red Stumpnose. Rooi Stompneus. Miss Lucy (Cape). Magistraat. Bont Dageraad (South Coast). .Miggcl (Knysna). Stump (Eastern Cape). Literature L 14, 74, 635. Plate 46. p. 273. Depth 2|. D Xl-Xll 10-11. A III 7-9. L.L 52-55. Tr. 9 18. 11 12 gill-rakers. Sometimes darker cross-bars. Attains 24 ins. Adult males develop a big hump on the forehead. .A rather untidy-looking fish. Found in South Africa from the Cape to East London, rarely in Natal waters, mostly in deepish water, rarely taken from the shore. Of considerable commercial significance about the Cape. Flesh good. Said to occur in Australian waters, but this needs confirmation. Sub-family PAGELLINAE (726-729) Characterised by feeble teeth, the outer slight sharp canines, the inner small molars. These fishes are carnivorous, feeding mainly on Crustacea. Mollusca, and other small forms of marine life. 3 genera in our area. A. Body silvery, usually with cross-bars . Lithognathus (726 727) B. Body pink or brown, no cross-bars. 1. Scales betw-een eyes . Pagellus (728) 2. No scales between eyes . Boopsokica (729) Genus Lithognathus Swainson, genotype Pagellus lithognathus Cuvier. Silvery body, with fairly large scales, none between eyes. Mouth protrusible. Teeth feeble. 2 species of shallow water. A. Lips thick, 7 wide cross-bars . lithognathus (726) A. Lips thin, 14 narrow cross-bars ... ... ... ... ,, ... mormyrus (727) ' -- '' S''-',.’'. -' ..^* -: /' -,r'f*'H * ^ K.1' ■', •■»'- ,•■>—' -.>■'•,,4-'.- - .. s PLATE 46 720. Chrysoblephus cnsliceps, left, juvenile at 2i ins., right, 14 ins. 722. Chrysoblephus pimiceus, left, juvenile at 2i ms., ngni, *.0 ins. 723. Chrysoblephus lophus, 10 ins. 725. Chrysoblephus gibbiceps, male, 19 ins. 728. Pagellus naialensh, 7 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family SPARIDAE 273 726. l.ITHOGNATHUS LFFHOGNATHUS (Cuvier). [Pagellus Uthognathus. Lithognathus capensis Swnsn.] Whitefish (West Coast). White or River Steenbras. W'it Steenbras (Cape, general). Varkbek, Pignose Crunter (Eastern Cape). Ngcangolo (Native). Literature L 47, 74, 635. t ig. 726. LITHOGNATHUS LITHOGNATHUS (Cuv.). Actual length 33 ins. Depth 2J-3]. D XI 10. A III 8. L.l. 44-51. Tr. 5 14. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal and anal. Teeth feeble, pointed, 2 series of small molars within. 12-14 gill-rakers. Mainly silvery, cross-bars fade with age. Attains 6 ft. Eound only in South Africa, on all our coasts, prefers sandy areas. Enters lagoons freely, even large fishes penetrating to shallow water in search of food, where they may be stunned by rifle lire from adjacent heights. Tails may be seen waving above the water as the fishes nose into the sand blowing small creatures from their burrows. Able to send out a powerful Jet of water, a fish when hooked not uncommonly blows a bait many yards up a line. Occurs at times in great shoals, especially on the west coast. In July 1944 numbers averaging 30 lbs. were found stranded in a Transkeian river mouth. Only rather seldom are numbers taken on any one occasion by the angler, then chiefly in the early morning hours from sandy beaches. This is a famous, vigorous, and much prized angling fish, which when hooked, starts off with great speed and often breaks loose. Takes most baits, flesh only rarely. Flesh excellent. 727. l.rrHOGNATHLS .MORMYRLS (Linnaeus). [Pagellus mormyrus.] Seebas. Bontrok. Severrim (Cape). .Sand Steenbras (Knysna). Literature L 47, 74, 635. Plate 44, p. 268. Depth 2)L D XI 12. A 111 10. L.l. 60-65. Tr. 6 14. No .scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal and anal. Very feeble fine pointed teeth externally, with 2 series of small molars within, lips thin, mouth protrusible. 14-15 gill-rakers. Attains 20 ins., usually smaller. Occurs right round Africa, mainly in sandy areas, enters estuaries. Not abundant, of little angling significance. Flesh excellent. Genus Pagellus Cuvier, genotype Sparus erythrinus Linnaeus. Scaly between eyes. Body mainly pink. Only one species in our area. 728. PAGELLUS N.VI ALENSIS Steindachner. [Pagellus affinis BIgr.] Red or Rooi Chor-Chor. Red (irunter. Pinky. Literature L 4, 14, 47, 74, 240, 366. Plate 46, p. 273. Depth 2^-3. D Xll 10. A 111 10. L.l. 6.3-67. Tr. 6 16. .Scales between eyes, none on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal and anal. Hind nostril circular. Small pointed teeth in each jaw, and 2 series of small molars within. 1 1-12 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Occurs only in South Africa from about Mossel Bay to Madagascar, in fairly deep water. Often thrown up when cold water appears (p. 8). Taken not uncommonly by trawl, is of no commercial value. Flesh good. Grunts when taken from the water. Genus Boopsoidea Castlenau, genotype Boopsoidea inornata Castlenau. No scales between eyes. Rather large eye. Mouth small. Body bronzy. One species. 274 BONY FISHES—Family SPARIDAE 729. BOOPSOIDEA INORNATA Castlenau. [Sparus or Pagrus holiihi Stndr.] Frans Madame or Jacop- ever (Cape). Dikoog, Peuloog or Grootogie (Knysna area). Cape Lady (Tratiskei). Mehlwentsimini (Native). Literature L 4, 74, 251. Plate 45, p. 271, juvenile and adult. Depth 2j. D XI KL-ll. A III II. L.I. 60-65. Tr. 8 16. 13-14 gill-rakers. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal and anal. Small mouth, with fine sharp teeth, and small molars within. The young are most vividly coloured, difficult to reproduce. Attains 12 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Natal, chiefly in rea.sonably deep water in rocky areas. A well-known small fish, regarded as a pest, as it occurs in shoals and can strip any bait in a short time, but is too small to catch easily. Flesh good, but spoils rapidly. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Sub-family BOOPSINAE (7.30 739) No separate group of enlarged teeth in front of Jaws, outer teeth all typical vegetable feeders, mainly of shallow water, mostly small fishes. A. Cheek below eye not scaly . B. Some scales on cheek below eye. 1. Only one series of notched incisors in upper jaw . 2. 2 or more series of teeth in each jaw. (а) Outer teeth movable, edges wavy . (б) Outer teeth fixed, edges entire. (.v) Only 1 outer series of incisors, all others molars (y) More than 1 series of incisors. (i) Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base . (ii) Soft dorsal and anal naked ... compressed, incisiform. These are all 6 genera in our area. ... Gymnoirotaphus (730) Sorpa (731) Crcnidcns (732) ... Polyainhiyodon Pacliymetopon [136 Spondy/iosoma (739) Genus Gymnocrotaphus Gunther, genotype Gyninocroiaphtis curvidetis Gnthr. Head noticeably bare of scales. Prominent incisors round each jaw, and a band of small molars within. One species. 730. GYMNOCRO 1 .4PHUS CURVIDENS Gunther, .lohn Brown. ,Jan Bruin (Cape). Blue-Eye .John Brown. Blauwoog Jan Bruin (Eastern Cape). Literature L 74, 240. Plate 47, p. 276. Body plump. Depth2]. DX12. AIIIIO. L.I. 64 68. Tr.8 2l. No scales on cheek below eye, or betw'een eyes, or on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. Caudal not deeply forked. 7 9 gill-rakers. From Li ins. in length the young resemble the adult in shape and colouration The brown of the live fish fades rapidly, leaving orange lines along the scale rows. Sometimes shows narrow dark cross-bars. Attains 14 ins. Occurs from the Cape to Durban, mostly in shallow water in rocky areas, hut also found down to 40 fathoms, nowhere abundant. Usually taken on Redbait from rocks, rare for more than two to be caught in one spot. ■A shapely fish. Flesh excellent. Genus Sarpa Bonaparte, genotype Spams salpa Linnaeus. Notched incisors in upper, pointed incisors in lower jaw. each in one series. No molars. One species. 731. S.4RP.4 S.ALP.4 (Linnaeus). {Box salpa. Boops salpa.] Bamboo, Mooi Nooitje (Cape). Streepie (Knysna). Sasa (Transkei. Native). Striped Karanteen, Bamboo Eisb (Natal). Literature L 4 14 74 110 154. Plate 47, p. 276. Body neatly oval and plump. Depth 2|. D XI 14-15. A III 13-14. L.I. 71-79. Tr. 6 15. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on bases of soft dorsal and anal, but latter fins with scaly basal sheath. Cheeks scaly below eye. 12-14 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins., average much smaller, large fishes commoner in cold water of west coast. Abundant in most rocky areas, is said to occur right round Africa. Enters estuaries. A beautiful shapely fish, one of the best baits. The small mouth and sharp teeth make it a pest to the rock angler. The flesh is palatable when quite fresh, but soon softens and is not much esteemed. Genus Crenidens Valenciennes, genotype Crenidens forskalii Val. Jaws with 2 series of incisors, cutting edge of each with 5 points. Outer teeth movable with brown edges, several rows of small molars within. One species. BONY FISHES— Family SPARIDAE 275 732. CRENIDENS CRENIDENS (Forskal). [Crenidens forskalii C. & V. Crenidens indicus Day.] Karan- teen. Literature L 14, 47, 74, 113. Plate 44, p. 268. Depth 2.]. DXlll. A 111 10. L.l. 55-60. Tr. 6 16. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on soft dorsal or anal, but these fins with marked basal sheath. Cheeks scaly. 9-10 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Comes from Indian waters, extends to Durban, rarely as far as East London. Caught on shrimp or prawn with a small hook. Excellent bait. May always be recognised by the brown crenulate tops of the outer teeth. Quite good eating. Genus Polyamblyodon Norman, genotype Pachymetopon ^ermanum Barnard. Only I outer series of incisors, with almost a pavement of rounded or pointed molars within. 3 rather rare fishes from the tropical waters of our east coast. They change in shape with growth so that identification may be difficult. A. A small patch of scales on preopercle flange. 1. Lateral line 63 . gibhosum (112,) 2. Lateral line 77-78 . cristiceps {12,A) B. No scales on preopercle flange . germanum (735) 733. POl.YAMBl.YODON CIBBOSUM (Pellegrin). [Pachvmetopon gihhosus.] Literature L 80 537 649, 658. Depth 2^. D XI 12. A 111 II. L.l. 63. Tr. 8 18. No scales between eyes, a small patch on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. 19 gill-rakers. Grey-blue. Only one specimen 10 ins. long found at Madagascar, now in Paris, not available for examination. Very doubtful if distinct from No. 734. 734. POl.YAMBLYODON CRI.SriCEPS Smith, l.iicraturc L 80. Plate 44, p. 268. Depth 2]. D XI13. A 111 10 II. L.l. 77-78. Tr. II 13. No scales between eyes, a patch on pre- opercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. Note change in profile of head with growth. 16 gill-rakers. Attains 20 ins. So far found only from Delagoa Bay to Beira, not often seen. Flesh not esteemed. Fig, 734. POLYAUBI.YODOS CRISTICEPS Smith. Above — left, juvenile. Right . large adult, profile of head. Compare with Plate 44. tig. 735. POl.YAMlil.YODOS GERM AM M (Brnrd.). Actual length 12 ins. [Photo A. W. Bailey. .A. Pectoral about as long as head. West coast B. Pectoral distinctly longer than head. 1. Scales on preopercle flange 2. Preopercle flange naked 7.35. POLYAMBLYODON GERMANUM (Barnard). [Pachymetopon germanus.] Literature L 5, 74, 80. Depth 2]-2J. DXlll. A 111 10-11. L.l. 71. Tr. 9 29. No scales between eyes or on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. 16 gill-rakers. Grey-blue, lighter below. A rare species, attains 18 ins. Known from Durban to Delagoa Bay. Genus Pachymetopon Gunther, genotype Pachvmetopon grande Gunther. About 5 row's of incisors round each jaw, no molars. Soft dorsal and anal scaly basally. 3 rather plump-bodied fishes found only in South Africa. hlochii aeneum (737) grande (738) 276 BONY FISHES— Family DENTICIDAE 736. PACHYMETOPON BLOCHII (Valenciennes). [Cantharus or Canwthus or Spomlyliosoma hlochii. Pachymetopon caiiesccns Norman.] Hottentot. Hangberger (Cape). Literature L 4, 74, 154, 635, 649. Plate 47, p. 276. Depth 2|-2i. D X-XI 11-12. A III 10. L.l. 60-65. Tr. 9 19. No scales between eyes or on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. 13-14 gill-rakers. Bronzy brown, lighter below. Attains 18 ins., average much smaller. Occurs on the west coast of South Africa, rarely east of Agulhas. A common food-tish of the Cape. Flesh good. Not of much significance as an angling fish, occasionally taken in fair numbers from deepish water in rocky areas. 737. PACHYMETOPON .AENELAl (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Spo/ulrlio.soiiia acncuni. Caranflius aeneus. Cantharus iialaleiusis G. &.T. Cantharus sinius G. & T .] Hottentot. BlueKsh. Copper Bream. Litera¬ ture L 43, 74, 635, 649. Plate 47, p. 276. Depth 2T D XI II. A III 10. L.l. 80-86. Tr. 10 22. No scales between eyes. Inner margin ol pre¬ opercle flange scaly. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. Pug-like snout, with characteristic bulge between eyes. 15 gill-rakers. Fresh from the water of great beauty, with cobalt blue head and blue-streaked bronzy yellow body. No artist may hope to portray the.se colours in their natural brilliance. Attains 20 ins. Found only in South Africa, in rather deep water from the Cape to Natal. Not often taken by shore anglers, then as a rule only in rather deep water, chiefly on red-bait. Found mainly on rocky banks. Flesh excellent. 738. PACHYMETOPON GRANDE Gunther. [Pachymetopon glaucutn Norman.] Blue Hottentot (Cape). Hottentot (Knysna). Das, John Brown. Jan Bruin (South Coast). Kattish, Vetvis, Buttertish (Eastern Cape). Bluefish, Butter Bream (East London Transkei). Bronze Bream. Copper Bream. Damkokker (Transkei- Natal). Nyizala (Native). Literature L 16, 74, 240. 299, 635, 649. Plate 47, p. 276. Plump body. Depth 2-2]. D XI 1 1. A 111 10-11. L.l. 80-85. Tr. 1 1 above L.l. No scales between eyes or on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. Old fishes develop a marked bulge between the eyes. 10-11 gill-rakers. Attains 24 ins. Found only from the Cape to Madagascar, in rather shallow water in rocky areas, feeding mainly on sea-weeds. A premier angling fish, which rather fastidiously takes only the freshest of redbait or prawn, and which can be most difficult to hook, but at times bites fiercely and fights gamely. A beautiful fish. In the water the head side-on is iridescent blue, and sharply differentiated from the bronzy body. Highly esteemed as a table fish, sometimes taken in fair numbers by rock anglers, is not suHiciently abundant to be of commercial significance. Sensitive to cold, numbers are almost always thrown ashore, numbed or dead, when the cold water appears at Knysna (p. 8). Preyed on by larger fishes, a strip of its llesh is excellent bait. On one occasion at Knysna a 3 lb. specimen Jumped out of the water on to a rocky ledge at the water's edge to escape from a large pursuing Red Steenbras (No. 741), which snapped at it with head out of the water. The latter then made off, and the Hottentot slipped away with the next wave. Genus Spondyliosoma Cantor, genotype Spams cantharus Linnaeus. Pointed incisor teeth in 4-6 rows in each jaw, with 1 row of molars behind. Soft dorsal and anal not scaly. One species in South Africa. 739. SPONDY LIOSOM.A E\E\RGIN.\TL M (Cuvier). [Caranthus or Cantharus emaryinatus. Can¬ tharus or caranthus microlepis G. & T.] Steentjie. Literature L 4, 47, 74. 154. 635, 649. Plate 47, p. 276. Depth 2L D XI 11-13. A 111 10. L.l. 80-92. Tr. 14 above L.l. No scales between eyes, on preopercle flange, or on base of soft dorsal and anal. 15-17 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. Found only in South Africa from Saldanha Bay round to Madagascar, abundant at times. Enters estuaries, and is found even at 30 fathoms near rocky ground. Excellent bait, normally too small to be of any significance as a food-fish. Family DENTICIDAE Closely related to the SPARIDAE, differing mainly in the dentition, and in the manner in which the ribs are inserted. Canine teeth always present, a few in front enlarged, fang-like. Sometimes conical teeth at sides of jaws, but no true molars. Predatory fishes maini)' of deep water, one or two enter estuaries under exceptional conditions only. They are mostly red or pink. Usually of moderate size, some are of commercial significance, but only one in our area grows to a large size. This family is mainly African, with 4 genera in our area. 710 RluibdostiiKii'i turbii 8 ins. 730. Gvimiocrotaphus curvidens, \0 ins. 731. Sarpa salpa, Sins. lib.Fachymetopon 738. Pachymewpon grande. 15 ins. 739. Spondyhosoma emarg,- ncitufUj 8 ins. Actual length stated in each case. r- ■ <^. BONY FISHES Family DENTICIDAE 277 A. 1st and 2nd dorsal spines short, 3rd abruptly long B. Dorsal spines normal. 1. 11 dorsal spines... . 2. 12 dorsal spines. (a) Head length less than body depth (h) Head length equal to body depth Cheimerius (740) Petrus (741) Polysteganus ( 742-744) Argyrozona (745) Genus Cheimerius Smith, genotype Dentex lutfar Valenciennes. 11-12 dorsal spines, the first 2 short, the ■Vd abruptly longer, the 3rd 7th filamentous, the 3rd always longest. Only one species. 740. CHEIIVIERIUS NUFAR (Valenciennes). [Dentex aihus Gilchrist, or miles Glch., or variahilis Val. Polysteganus or Dentex nufar.] Wittevis (Cape). Sonvis. Sunfish. Rooi Stompneus or Red Stumpnose (Knysna). Soldier (Natal). Rubalo. Formerly wrongly identified as Dentex filosus Val. Lite'ature L 14, 43, 74, 328, 635. IMate 49, p. 281, adult. Depth 21-2L D XI XII 10 II. A 111 8. L.l. 59 63. Tr. 8 16. A few small scales on inner margin of preopercle flange. Partly scaly between eyes. No scales on soft dorsal or anal. 1st and 2nd dorsal spines short, 3rd abruptly longer, sometimes very long, 4th-7th also elongate, but graduated shorter. Outer pelvic ray usually elongate. 13 14 gill-rakers. When alive bright silvery with faint red cross-bars, usually fades to almost white, but some specimens darken to almost purple after death. Attains at least 24 ins. Widespread in the Indo- Pacific, extends as far south as the Cape. A variable species with numerous synonyms. The shape of the body and of the fins vary with age, the 3rd dorsal Fig. 740. CHE/.UERIUS SUFAR (Val.). Juvenile at 10 ins. spine being shorter in large fishes. Taken by line and trawl in deepish water, not very abundant in our area, and large specimens are only rarely caught by the shore angler, then only with stormy weather at sea. The young seek shelter in estuaries when stormy weather approaches. A common food-fish in Portuguese East .Africa. The flesh is excellent. Cheimerius means “Sign of Storm". Genus Petrus Smith, genotype the single species. 1 1 dorsal spines. Gill-rakers short. Soft dorsal and anal scaly at base. A single species found only in South Africa. 741. PE FRL'S RUPESTRI.S (Valenciennes). [Dentex rupestris. Dentex hreris Kr\zr.] Red or Rooi Steenbras (Cape). Yellow Steenbras (Natal). Literature L 4, 58, 74, 154, 209. Plate 48, p. 278, juvenile and adult. Depth 3. D XI 10-11. A III 8. L.l. 57-63. Tr. 12 20. Partly scaly between eyes and on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal with heavy fleshy scaly bases. In front of upper jaw 4, of lower 4-6 powerful canines, with fine teeth behind in a band in each jaw. ,A ridge above eye, increases with age. 8-9 short gill- rakers. Taken on reefs usually reddish or bronzy, but on soft bottoms from Mossel Bay to Natal is a beautiful golden yellow. The young have a blotch, almost a cross-bar, behind the dorsal fin. .Attains over 6 ft. in length and a recorded weight of over 150 lbs. Found only in South Africa, among reefs or rocks in deep water from the Cape to Natal, occasionally enters deep estuaries. One of the premier game fishes of South Africa, takes flesh baits, preferably live fishes. A great fighter, to be treated with respect, as powerful jaws with large fangs can inflict serious wounds, severing fingers with ease. Deep sea line fishermen assert that on the Agulhas Bank this species attains a weight of several hundred pounds, and that large specimens will attack men in the water. 278 BONY FISHES— Family DENTICIDAE It is said that many from the wreck of the Birkenhead were mutilated by this fish. Not uncommonly taken in the trawl. Flesh excellent, but the liver should not be eaten as it causes poisoning, with the loss of skin and of all hair on the body. The liver oil, however, is rich in vitamins and quite wholesome. Genus Polysteganus Klunzinger, genotype Polysiegantis coeruleopunclatiis Klunz. Depth of body exceeds length of head. 12 dorsal spines. Pectoral not or but little shorter than head. Front canines not very strong. 3 species in South Africa, 2 found nowhere else. A. A large dark blotch below 6th dorsal spine ... ... ... . ... imiti/osus (742) B. No dark blotch on side. 1. Eye less than depth of cheek . pracorbi tail's (743) 2. Eye not less than depth of cheek . coenilcopunctalus (744) 742. POLYSTEGANLIS UNDDLOSFJS (Regan) [/7<7;/c.v uiululosus.] Seventy Four (General). Literature L 47. 74, 83, 486, 635. Plate 49, p. 281, juvenile and adult. Depth 2^. D XII 10. A 111 8-9. L.l. 58-62. Tr. 9 20. 14-16 gill-rakers. Scaly between eyes and on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal not .scaly. Hind nostril oval. Pectoral as long as head in young, longer than head in adults. Profile ot head evenly convex, but some large adults develop a prominent hump above the eyes. Preorbital (cheek) depth mostly less than eye. sometimes just greater in biggest fishes. Attains at lea.st 40 ins. Found only in South Africa, from the Cape to Delagoa Bay, in deep water. At one time abundant- even taken by shore anglers from deeper water, this elegant fish has become scarce in recent years. The flesh is esteemed. Name supposedly derived from lines on body resembling rows of gun ports of old “ Seventy four”. 743. POLYSTEG.ANUS PR.AEORBl F.VLIS (Gunther). [Dentex praeorhiialis.] Scotsman (Natal)- Literature L 14, 43, 74. 240, 635. Plate 49, p. 281. Depth 25 D XII 10. ,A III 8. L.l. 59-63. Tr. 11-16. Scaly between eyes and on preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal not scaly. Hind nostril oval. Pectoral about as long as head. Profile of head smooth. Pre¬ orbital (cheek) deep, 1 .1-2 times eye diameter. 1 5-16 gill-rakers. Attains .30 ins. Found only in South Africa, from .Algoa Bay to Beira, in deep water. Not often seen by shore anglers. Flesh good. 744. POLY STEG.ANLS COERL LEOPL NC I .\1 1 .S Klunzinger. [Dtv/tc.v coeruleopimctalus, or liiwo- punctatus BIgr.] Blueskin (Natal). Cashushu (Portuguese). Literature L I I, 43, 74, 635. Plate 49, p. 281. Depth 2^. D XII 10. .A 111 8. L.l. 52-56. Tr. 7 17. Scales between eyes, and on all but outer margin of preopercle flange. Soft dorsal and anal not scaly. Pectoral longer than head. Profile of head smoothly convex. Hind nostril oval. Preorbital (cheek) depth about J of eye diameter. 12 -13 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. Tropical east coast of .Africa, as far as the Natal south coast, extending to deeper water. Not of any great angling or commercial significance in South .Africa. Flesh good. Genus Argyrozona Smith, genotype Dentex aryyrozona Val. Body depth about equals head length. Hind margin of maxilla pointed, exposed. Hind nostril circular. One species, found only in South Africa. 745. ARGYROZONA ARGYROZONA (Valenciennes). [Dentex or Polysteganus argyrozona.] Silvervis Silver Fish. Doppie (Cape). Rooitjie (Knysna). Karp (Port Elizabeth). Karpenter or Kaapenaar (East London to Natal). Literature L 47, 58, 74, 154, 635. Plate 49, p. 281. Depth 3. D Xll 10. A 111 8. L.l. 59-62. Tr. 7 19. Scales between eyes, and on all but outer margin of preopercle flange. Hind nostril circular. Pectorals much shorter than head. Profile of head smooth. Preorbital (cheek) depth § of eye diameter or less. Outer teeth long slender fangs, inner smaller. Lower jaw projects; 18-20 gill-rakers. Attains at least 36 ins. Found only in South Africa from Table Bay to Natal, usually in deeper water to 100 fathoms. Sometimes caught from the rocks in winter, but not a common angling s , usually taken m 10-60 fathoms. This species is of considerable commercial significance, and the flesh is esteemed Formerly exceedingly abundant, up to 1915 fishes of 5 lbs. sold commonly for .3d. each or less but numbers have rnarkedly declined. At the Cape juveniles known as “ Doppies ” are captured in large numbers and are believed by many to be a distinct species. There is, however, no feature of scientific value by which they may be distinguished. ^ ^ PLATE 48 717. Porcoslomu ilentalu, 10 ins. 718. Ftcrogyiwws laniarius. 1 1 ins. 741. Pelriis riipesiris, above, adult at 50 ins., below, juvenile at 9 ins. 724. Chrysoblepluis ang/icus, 12 ins. Actual length stated in each case. * '1 BONY FISHES -Family AMPHIPRIONI DAE 279 ORDER CHROMIDES (746-769) CORAI. FISHES: DEMOISELLES Compressed body, normally with fairly large scales. Only one nostril on each side. Teeth small, conical or compressed. Mainly small fishes of shallow tropical water, about reefs, some in fresh water also. 2 families in our seas. A. Teeth conical . Amphiprionidae (746-753) B. Teeth compressed ... ... ... ... .. .. .. ••• Ahudefdufidae (754-769) Family AMPHIPRIONIDAE CORAL FISHES: DEMOISELLES Rather short, deep, sometimes almost orbicular compressed body, mostly with large scales. Small mouth, with pointed conical teeth in 1 or more rows in each jaw, none on vomer. Only 3| gills. Dorsal spines usually well-developed, membrane often filamentous. 2 anal spines. Lateral line usually ends below soft dorsal, sometimes a separate series of tubular scales on peduncle. Small dainty rock-haunting fishes of tropical waters, many beautifully coloured, which are agile and expert at concealing themselves in holes and crevices so as easily to elude capture by nets. Being too small and elusive to take on lines, they are best captured by poison or explosives. Of 6 Indo-Pacific genera 3 are found in our area. A. None of opercular bones serrate ... ... ... ... •• ■ Chromis (746) B. Preopercle margin serrate. 1. Opercular margin serrate ... .. •• • • ■ ■ Amphiprion (747-748) 2. Opercular margin not serrate ... ... ... . ■ ••. Dascyllus (749-753) Cienus Chromis Cuvier, genotype Spams chromis Linnaeus. None of the opercular bones serrate. Lateral line ends below soft dorsal. Small conical pointed teeth in 2 or more rows in each Jaw. Found in shallow tropical waters of all seas, numerous species, 2 in our area, one doubtful. 746. CHROMIS XANTIIURUS (Bleeker). Literature L 4, 54. Depth about 2. D Xll 12 13. A II 12-13. About 26 series of scales, 14-17 in L.l. Tr. 3/9. 20 gill- rakers. Body brownish, also fins, but hind parts of dorsal and anal, peduncle and caudal, yellow, a sharp 1 ine of division between the 2 zones. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, was recorded from Natal by Regan in 1917. Probably a malidentification, likely to have been Chromis dimidiatus, No. 746a, for which see Appendix, p. 503, and Plate 51. Genus Amphiprion Schneider, genotype Luiiamis ephippium Bloch. Ovoid body with fairly small scales. Lateral line not complete. Opercle, preopercle and suborbital strongly serrate, no large spines. A single series of small conical teeth. A few species, all brilliant, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. 747. AMPHIPRION POLYMNL'S (Linnaeus). [Amphiprion hifasciatus Bl. or intermedins Sehl. or uni- maculatus Whitley.] Literature L 88, 614, 703. Fig. 747. AMPHIPRION POLY MNVS tUnn.). Actual length I in. 280 BONY FISHES—Family AMPHRIPRIONIDAE Depth about 2|. D X-Xl 13-14. A II 12-13. About 55 series of scales, about 35 in L.l. Tr. 5 20. 12 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Delagoa Bay, but rare in our area. 748. AMPFIIPRION BICINCTUS Ruppell. [Amphiprion ciarkii Benn., or chrysoplerus Cliv., or japonicus Schl., or xanthurus Rupp., or papiiensis Whitley.] Literature L 88, 614, 703. Plate 51, p. 286. Depth I4-2. D X 15-17. A II 13-14. About 55 series of scales, about 40 in L.l. Tr. 5 20. 11-12 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. A gorgeous fish, somewhat variable in colour, rare in our area. Genus Dascyllus Cuvier, genotype Chaetodon anuinus Linn. Preopercle margin serrate, opercle tiot serrate. Scales rather large. Mouth small, oblique, with conical teeth in several rows in each jaw. Lateral line ends below soft dorsal. A few species from the Indo-Pacific, small fishes of rocks and reefs. 5 in our area. A. 3 broad cross-bars . anuinus (749) B. 2 faint dusky bars . carncus (750) C. No bars, or at most one. 1. Dark, few marked light blotches . triniacukitus (751) 2. No light blotches. (rt) .Axil of pectoral black . axillaris (752) (6) .Axil of pectoral not black . imiryinatus (753) 749. D.\SC\ LLUS .-ARU.ANUS (Linnaeus). [Tetradrachmum anianuin.] Literature L 6, 326, 614, 703. Plate 50, p. 283. Depth about 1 1. D Xll 12-13. A II 12-13. About 25 series of scales, about 17 tubules in L.l. Tr. 3 10. 17 gill-rakers. Just black and silvery except tor the eye. .Attains 3.] ins. .Abundant and widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, quite plentiful about reefs in Delagoa Bay. 750. D.ASCVLLUS CARNEUS (Fischer). Literature L 362, 614, 703. I’late 50, p. 283. Depth about l.T D Xll 15-16. A II 12-13. About 27 series of scales, about 18 tubules in L.l. Tr. 311. 16 gill-rakers. Attains 3i ins. Found only on the tropical east coast of .Africa, from Delagoa Bay northwards, in and about reefs. .A dainty flash ot colour, agile and timid, difficult to capture except with explosives. 751. D.ASCV LLL'S 1 RIM.ACL LA I US (Ruppell). [Dascyllus niycr Blkr., or alhisclla Grav.] Literature L 54, 151, 326, 614, 703. Plate 50, p. 283. Depth about IJ. D XI-XIl 13-16. A II 13-14. .About 28 series of scales, about 19 tubules in L.L Tr. 3 11. 17 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Widespread and abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacilic, reaches as far south as Pondoland, quite common about reefs in Delagoa Bay. 752. D.-VSCYLLUS AXILLARIS Smith. Literature L 67. Depth about I '. DXIII6. .A II 14. .About 28 series of scales, 19 tubules in L.l. Tr. 4 10. 13 gill-rakers. Uniform red-brown. ,A black spot in pectoral axil. Known tVom one specimen 3.) ins. long from Great Fish Point. Possibly some tropical species, at present not traced, which has strayed here. 753. DASCYLLUS MARGIN ATUS (Rup¬ pell). [Dascyllus or Heliasies reticulatus Rich, or xanthosoma Blkr., or hinmculatus Mack, or nigri- pinnis Rgn.] Literature L 151, 275, 317, 328, 614, 703. Depth about 1|. D Xll 14-15. A 11 12-14. About 27 series of scales, about 17 tubules in L.l. Tr. 4/11. 17-18 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, rare in our area. Fig. 753. DASCYLLUS MARGIN ATUS (Rupp.). Actual length 2J ins. 740. Clieimeriiii niifar, praeorhita/is, 14 ins. Pl.ATH 49 lAA ^^hsleKcmus iini/ii/osiis, left at 744. Polvslegamis coeriilenpiiiicialiis, 1.1 ins. 7- length stated in each case. ins., right at 40 ins. 4 if'yrtK/ina ar gyro zona. 743. Polystcyuniis 24 ins. Actual BONY FISHES— Family ABUDEFDUFIDAE 281 Family ABUDEFDUFIDAE CORALFISHES: DEMOISELLES Rather short, deep, fairly compressed body, scales usually fairly large. Mouth small, with firm compressed incisiform teeth, in U2 rows in each jaw, often notched. No teeth on palate. Only 3J gills. Dorsal spines strong. 2 anal spines. Most fins scaly. Lateral line rarely complete to caudal base. Mostly small timid fishes which live in and about reefs, rocks and weeds, never venturing far from shelter. Rarely seen outside of tropical or .semi-tropical waters, and being adepts at concealment, even in small pools, they are not well known in our area. Some are drab, but many are beautifully marked, and make a lovely picture as they dart about the rocks and weeds in clear tropical pools. About 5 genera recognised, 2 in our area. A. Prcopercle margin with regular serrations ... ... . ... Pomacentrus (754-758) B. Prcopercle margin not serrate . ... ... . ... Ahudefduf {159-1(119) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Pomacentrus Lacepedc, genotype Chaetodon pavo Bl. Ovate body with rather large scales. Com¬ pressed teeth in I 2 rows. Prcopercle margin and most other bones of the head finely serrate. 12-14 dorsal spines, 2 anal spines. Mostly tiny to small fishes, many brilliant, of tropical reefs and weed, numerous species, 5 in our area, all of the warmer waters, easily distinguished. A. 5 black cross-bars ... B. No black cross-bars. 1. Yellowish or greenish with blue dots 2. Olive. Dark spots on peduncle 3. Yellowish, bluish streaks 4. Dark, almost black, yellow on fins... annulatus (754) sindensis (755) tripunctatus (756) puYO (757) opercularis (758) 754. POMACEN'IRUS ANNULA TUS Peters. Literature L 4, 14, 221, 614, 703. Plate 50, p. 283. Depth about Ij’. D Xlll 12. A II 12. 26 series of scales. Tr. 2 9. 8-10 gill-rakers. Attains 3 ins. Known only from the tropical east coast of Africa, extends to Natal. Found mainly about reefs, rocks and weeds, a lovely small fish. 755. POMACENTRUS SINDENSIS (Day). [Glyphidodon sindensis.] Literature L 4, 53, 304, 328, 614, 703. Plate 51, p. 286. Depth about 2. D XIII 10 12. A 11 11-13. 26 series of scales. Tr. 3 10. 19-21 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, reaches as far south as Pondoland, rare south of Durban. Abundant among weeds in Delagoa Bay, a lovely fish, colour fades rapidly. 756. POMAC ENTRUS TRIPUNCTATUS Cuvier. [Pomacenirus vanicolensis Cuv., or emar^inatus Cuv., or chrysurus Cuv., or trilineatus Cuv., or hiocellatns Rupp., or raenionieiopon Blkr., or hankanensis Blkr., or deluriis .1. & S., or tropicus Seale, or idonyatus Scale, or opislhostiynui Fwir.] Literature L 154, 326, 383, 614, 703. Depth about 2. D Xlll XIV 14 15. .\ II 13-16. About 26 series of scales. Tr. 3 9. 2-3 rows on cheek. 15-16 gill-rakers. A rather variable species, normally a blue-edged black spot at base of last dorsal rays, sometimes on upper part of peduncle. Occasionally blue spots or lines on an olive body. Fins yellowish. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. Fig. 756. POMACENTRUS TRIPUNCTATUS Cuvier. Actual length 4 ins. 24 282 BONY FISHES- Family ABU DEFDVFI DAE 757. POMACENTRIJS PAVO (Bloch). [PomacciUrus pavoninus BIkr. or nototus Mad.] Literature L 117, 326, 614, 703. Plate 51, p. 286. Depth about 2]. 0X11112-13. A 1113-15. About 29 series of scales. Tr. 3 9. 14 15 gill-rakers. Colour somewhat variable, mostly yellow, with vertical blue streaks on scales, brilliant, a lovely small fish. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 758. POMACENTRUS OPERCULARIS (Gunther). [Heliasies opercuUms.] Literature L 86, 88, 275, 614. Plate 50, p. 283. Depth about 2]. D Xlll 10-11. A II 10-11. About 28 series of scales, about 17 tubules in L.l. Tr. 3/9. 14-15 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. So far found only from Natal to Zanzibar, about reefs, and on the shore where the water is fairly deep. A shapely small fish. Probably extends to India. Genus Abudefduf Forskal, genotype Chaetochn sordidus Forsk. Short deep body with large scales. One series of notched incisors in each jaw. None of the opercular bones serrate. Lateral line ends below soft dorsal. Some authors do not recognise this generic name on the grounds that it is “Barbaric," but it is unquestionably valid. Numerous species of tropical seas, mostly about reefs. Agile small fishes adept at hiding in crevices, under stones and in weeds, so that often when even quite abundant, they remain virtually unknown. Good eating but small. 11 species in our area confined mainly to tropical waters. As many "Museum" species have been created, identification is not always easy. A. A white cross-bar . B. Distinct darkish cross-bars in adult. 1. Black spot on peduncle in adult 2. No black spot on peduncle in adult. (fl) Caudal uniform ... (b) Dark bar in each caudal lobe C. No cross-bars, body dark in front, lighter behind D. No cross-bars, body more or less uniform. 1. Depth I4-2. (a) 12 dorsal spines ... (b) 13 dorsal spines. (i) 12 anal rays (ii) 14 anal rays . 2. Depth 2j-24. (a) 1 1 anal rays. (.v) 2 rows of cheek scales . ( v) 4 rows of cheek scales . (b) 12-14 anal rays ... Icucozomi (759) sordidus (760) scixatilis (761 ) sexfasciatus (762) xanthurus (763) lacry mains (764) spar aides (765) sculptus (766) fa/lax (767) dasyyenys (768) biocellaius (769) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 759. .ABUDEFDUF LEUCOZON.U (Bleeker). [Glypbidodon leucozona, or floremulus Gnthr., or cinyulalum Klunz.] Coralfish. Literature L 19, 256, 326, 614, 703. Plate 50, p 283 Depth about 11. D Xll-Xlll 15-17. A II 12-14. About 29 series of scales. Tr. 3 10-12. Markings vari¬ able and change with growth. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches as far south as Pondoland, the young not uncommon in tide-pools. An agile small fish. Coralfish. Litera- 760. ABUDEFDUF SORDIDUS (Forskal). [Glyphidodon sordidus or leucopleura Day 1 ture L 19, 47, 1 13, 326, 328, 614, 703. Plate 51, p. 286, Juvenile and adult. Depth about If. D Xlll 14-16. A 11 14-16. About 27 series of scales. Tr. 3-4/12. 12-14 gill-rakers Markings somewhat variable, change with growth. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific' c^Jm^n^ London, quite common in tide-pools from there northwards. An adept at con- ■HVJ&M PLATE 50 i.s, 2 ins. 750. Dascy/lus carnciis, 2J ins 758. Pomacentru.s operciilaris, 3 ins. 759. us, 3} ins, 769. AhuJefdul hiuccHatus. 3 751 . DascyHus Irimaculaliis. 4 ins. 754. Ahuddduf k’lHozona. 3i ins. 76* ins. Actual length stated in each case BONY FISHES— Family ABU DEFDUFIDAE 283 761. ABUDEFDUF SAXATILIS (Linnaeus). [Glyphiclodon saxatilis or vaigiensis Q. & G., or tynvhitti Benn.] Coralfish. Isibubulungwan (Zulu). Literature L 19, 47, 105, 326, 328, 614, 703. Plate 51, p. 286. Depth about 1|. D XIll 12-13. A 11 12-13. About 30 series of scales, about 20 tubules in L.l. Tr. 4/12. 17-18 gill-rakers. Colour varies, slaty to blue, with silvery or yellow reflections. Attains 9 ins. Widespread but not abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Pondoland. A stately small fish, not un¬ common about wharfs. 762. ABUDEFDUF SEXFASCIATUS (Lacepede). [Glyphiclodon sexfasciatus or coeleslinus Cuv.] Litera¬ ture L 43, 614, 703. Depth about 11-2. D XIll 12-13. A II 12-13. About 30 series of scales, about 20 tubules in L.l. Tr. 4/11. 17 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Exactly like No. 761 except that the caudal is lighter with a dark band along each lobe. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, not abundant, found at Durban. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 763. .ABUDEFDUF XANTMURUS (Bleeker). [Glvphidoclon xanthurus.] Literature L 614, 703. Plate 51, p. 286. Depth about l|. D XIll 14 15. A II 13-14. About 27 series of scales, about 17 tubules in L.l. 16-17 gill-rakers. Attains 7 ins. Widespread but rare in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban. 764. .ABUDEFDUF LACRYMATUS (Quoy & Gaimard). [Glypliiclon lacrymatus or nivosus H. & J.] Literature L 614, 703. Plate 50, p. 283. Depth about 2. D XII 16-17. All 13. About 28 series of scales, about 19 tubules in L.l. Tr. 3 10. 13 gill-rakers. Anal and pelvics often dark also. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, mainly about reefs, Durban northwards. Rare in our area. 765. ABUDEFDUF SPA RO IDES (Cuvier). [Glyphidodon sparoides. Pomacentnis zunzihariensis von B.] Literature L 54, 154, 383, 641. Depth about I?. D XIll 13. A II 12. About 30 series of scales. Tr. 4 11. 17 19 gill-rakers. Blue- green or grey, a dark blotch each side of peduncle, some¬ times a silvery spot on each scale. Attains 6 ins. Recorded from the F-ijis, Mauritius and Mozambique. Has been found from Durban northwards, mainly about reefs. Fig. 765. ABUDEFDUF SPAROIDES (Cuv.). Actual length 5 ins. Depth about I ?. D XIII 14. A II 14. About 25 series of scales. Tr. total 10-11. Stated to be greenish above, lighter below. Only once found in Mozambique in 1855. .A doubtful species, probably a juvenile of some known species. 766. ABUDEFDUF SCUI.PTUS Peters. [Glyphidodon xctdplus.] Literature L 4, 221, 256. 767. .AB14)EFDUF F.Al.LAX (Peters). [Glyphidodon fallax.] Literature L 4, 221, 256. Depth 21. DXlllll. A II II. About 28 series of scales. Tr. 2-3 9. 2 rows on cheek. Described as olive above, some blue spots, dorsal and anal darkish. Attains 4 ins. .Another mysterious species recorded from Mozambique in 1855, not seen since. 768. ABUDEFDUF DASYGENYS Fowler. Literature L 21. Plate 51, p. 286. Depth 2]. D XIII 12. A II 11. About 28 series of scales. Tr. 4 12. 4 rows on cheek. 19 gill-rakers. Only one specimen 4J ins. long from Durban. More wanted. 284 BONY FISHES— Family LAB R! DAE 769. ABUDEFDUF BIOCFJ.LATUS (Quoy & Gaimard). [Glypliuhdon hioccUatus. AhudefchiJ or Gly- phidodon hrownript’d Benn., or antjerius Cuv., or pimctidatus Cuv., or halinensis Blkr., or g/aiiaix Ciiv., or rossii BIkr., or hemimelas Kner.] Literature L 19, 154, 326, 328, 614, 703. Plate 51), p. 283. Depth about 21-21- D Xll-Xlll 12-15. A 11 12 14. About 27 series of scales, 16-19 in L.l. Tr. 2 9- 1 1-12 gill-rakers. Colour variable, some specimens almost wholly bluish, with lighter blue lines on head, some¬ times only 1 dark blotch on dorsal. Attains 5 ins. Widespread and not uncommon in the tropical Indo-Pacilic, has been found as far south as Durban. Specimens of value, also colour notes. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER PHARYNGOGNATHI (770-827) WRASSES: RAINBOW FISHES: PARROTFISMES Rather elongate body, mostly fairly robust, sometimes compressed, with scales varying from minute to large. Teeth in jaws mostly caninilorm. Characterised by the united pharyngeals, the lower forming a charac¬ teristic unit (see Fig. M), which normally bear large molars used for crushing mollusca. Only 3.1 gills. Range in size from tiny rock-haunting fishes to man-size monsters, mostly in tropical seas, about reefs and in weed. In this order are some of the most brilliant of all creatures, with an astounding range of shapes, patterns and shades. In the tropics many are of importance as food, though some are reputed to be unwholesome at certain seasons. 2 families. A. Outer teeth normal ... . Lahridac (170 -H20) B. Outer teeth partly or fully coalesced ... Ccdlyodontidac ((i2\ 827) Family I A BRIDAL. RAINBOW FISHES: WRASSES Body varies from deep and compressed to elongate and cylindrical. Mouth never large, teeth usually canities, sometimes flattened. Often a posterior canine which projects forwards in angle of mouth. No teeth on palate. Lower pharyngeals united into a broad Y-shaped unit bearing granular teeth. Cycloid scales. Lateral line single, evenly curved or sharply bent, or else in 2 parts, the hinder short, usually median on peduncle. Caudal rarely forked. Fin spines mostly rather feeble. Labrids abound in warm waters of all oceans, and some penetrate colder seas. They live mostly in and about reefs and in sea-weeds. Some are herbivorous, but most are carni¬ vorous, many feeding mainly on molluscs, which they crush with rounded teeth. Though most are small, .some attain a great size. All are virile, the larger species affording good sport to the angler in tropical waters. Mostly the flesh is wholesome, but a few species in certain localities are stated to be toxic at some .seasons. Some build nests in sea-weed to shelter eggs and young. Many apparently sleep at night. Some of the Labrids are among the most brilliantly coloured of all creatures. They change colour, if not pattern, with great rapidity, but their colours fade soon after death. The rock-haunting species swim with a sinuous grace beautiful in itself. These brilliant creatures weaving gracefully in and out of tumbled rocks in a tropical pool arc a sight worth going far to see. In South Africa Labrids are almost entirely absent westwards of East London, but increase rapidly in num¬ bers towards the tropical east coast. Twenty years ago only 34 species were known from our waters. In this work 53 species falling in 21 genera are recorded, and fuller investigation will certainly reveal the presence of more of the numerous Indo-Pacific forms. (For a 54th species see 776a in Plate 101, p. 423.) Hig. M. I.ovver pharyngeals of -t \CHI( HO RROPS N.A T.A 1. LA - SIS Ci. & T. (No. 771). BONY FISHES— Family LABRIDAE 285 A. Lateral line single, smoothly curved. 1. Head length much greater than body depth . 2. Head length about equal to body depth, {a) 13 dorsal spines ... {h) 1 1-12 dorsal spines B. Lateral line single, but abruptly bent down posteriorly. 1. 7-8 dorsal spines. (a) Snout normal . {h) Snout tubular 2. 9-1 1 dorsal spines. {a) Scales large, L.l. 23-31. (i) Front teeth prominent. (.v) Preopercle margin smooth. («) Two flat teeth project forward ... iP) Front teeth conical. t Lips markedly thick ft Lips normal (r) F’reopcrcle margin serrate. (a) Pelvics normal (S) First pelvic ray filamentous (ii) Front teeth feeble (/>) Scales fairly small, L.l. 45-85. (i) Scales on cheek (ii) No scales on cheek (r) Scales very small, L.l. 1 10-1.30 . C . Lateral line in 2 parts, hind short section on caudal peduncle. 1. 1st 2 dorsal spines form separate fin 2. 2nd dorsal spine connected to third. («) 2nd and 3rd dorsal spines widely separated ... (B) Dorsal spines evenly spaced. (i) Scales large, L.l. 20-30. (.y) No scales on opercle ... . (>') Scales on opercle. (a) Front canines normal. + 9 dorsal spines . tt 10 dorsal spines (P) Front canines flare outwards ... (ii) Scales fairly small, L.l. about 70 Cheilio (770) Anchichoerops (771) Lepidaplois (772-776) Thalassoma (777-782) Gomphosus (783-784) A nampses (785-786) Hemigymnus (787-788) Halichoeres (789-795) Duymaeria (796) Pteragogus (797-798) StethojuUs (799-804) Fissilahrus (805) Coris (806-809) Hohgymnosus (810) Ini is Ii us (811) . . . Hemipteronotus (812) SovacuHchthys (813-8 ! 4) Cheilinus (81 5-8 1 7) Thalliurus (818) Pseuclocheilinus (819) Cymolutes (820) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Cjcnus Cheilio Lacepede, genotype Cheilio auratus Lacepede. Body elongate, almost cylindrical. Head rather long. Lateral line single, smoothly curved. Teeth small, granular teeth within mouth, no posterior canine. One species. 770. CHEILIO INER.MLS (Forskal). Literature L 47, 113, 252, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 62, p. 308, 3 colour patterns. Depth 7-8. D IX 13-14. A III 11-12. L.l. 45-50. Tr. 5 12-14. 1 7-20 gill-rakers. Lips become thicker with age. Colour varies from yellow to brilliant green. Attains 20 ins. Flesh and bones sometimes green, but good eating. Bites eagerly on shrimp, prawn, or crayfish, also takes flesh. Widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific, Found rarely in Pondoland, abundant Zululand northwards, mainly among weed. 2H6 BONY FISHES— Family LABRIDAE Genus Anchichoerops Barnard, genotype Choerops natalensis G. & T. Body rather heavy. Lateral line single, evenly curved. Front teeth prominent canines. No posterior canine. Granular teeth inside mouth, more or less coalesced. One species, hardly looks like a Wrasse. 771. ANCHICHOEROPS N.ATALENSIS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Choerops iuitaleitsis.\ Literature L 4, 14, 43. Plate 101, p. 423. Fig. M, p. 284, lower pharyngeals. ANCHICHOEROPS NATALENSIS (G. & T.) Lower, photograph A. Showing 2 variations, each about 20 ins Ronier Robinson. 5 Depth 21 D Xlll 9. 1st 3 dorsal spines almost separate, all dorsal spines in fleshy membrane. A 111 lO-ll. L.l. 53-57. Tr. 13 22. 11-12 gill-rakers. Thick fleshy lips. Attains .30 ins. A rare fish found only in South Africa from Natal to south Zululand. down to 30 fathoms. Takes most baits including whale meat. Colours variable, either blood-red with yellow to orange spots, or orange-yellow with darker spots. Genus Lepidaplois Gill, genotype Lahrus axillaris Bennett. Rather robust body Lateral line single gently curved Cheeks and opercle scaly. Front teeth canines, posterior canine present, granular teeth within mouth. Brilliant Indo-Pacific forms, 5 species in our waters, easily identified by colour or pattern. 772. LEPIDAPLOIS TRILINEATUS Fowler. Literature L 19, 695. Depth about 3. D XII 9-10. A III 12. L.l. 32. Tr. 5 12. 7 beautiful but rare species seldom seen, known from Natal to the Red Sea. related form occurs in Australian waters. Plate 52. p. 288. gill-rakers. Attains 9 ins. A Specimens wanted. A closely [Cossypluis nigromaculatiis G. & T.] Literature L 19, 43, 773. LEPID.APLOIS HIRSL’TLS (Lacepede). 252, 317, 613, 614, 703. Plate 52, p. 288 Depth 2i-3. D XDXII 10-12. A III 12. L.l. 30-35. Tr. 6 11. 1 1-12 gill-rakers. Colours variable, mostly dominant reddish, often largely yellow, sometimes yellow spots on head. The black blotch near tail variable sometimes absent Attains 30 ins. Flesh good. A sporting fish, prefers prawn, A central Indo- acihc form, quite plentiful on our shores, extending as far south as Port St, Johns, W / 757 Jim,,, ..... "'fv PLATE 51 746a. Chromh (limidiatiis, 3 ins 748. '^"Jyw^'^'TbovTil"'^’ fnr*’helow^arTTns^”^^^Vy.”*^4S/'L'" M.var/ff S ins, '"lei'^udefduida-^ysenys, 45 ms. Actual length stated ,n each case. ' v-,-': ;4» iSfPrfr'^ ‘V * *" '? “‘Z" *■* f *''t- ^ .rt 4 siHj. « ' « -1 ^•J •» - '• ^ ' '.'a •'“ t HK '■'.,»f'!-' ' I- . ^ •? /' 4*'-: -S,.^ -r- ’i-»,/^’ *' - ^ V-' ■ ---^v • ''X-Ij: i ^ .1^ > ;j u/ -^ . ' 'Ij,- '-us^ , 's..\ ... ' BONY FISHES— Family LABRIDAE 287 774. LEPIDAPLOIS DIANA (Lacepede). Literature L 14, 252, 328, 614, 703. Plate 52, p. 288. Depth 3. D XII 10. A III II 12. L.l. 32. Tr. 5 10. 12 gill-rakers. Colour somewhat variable, mostly reddish, dark blotches always as shown. Attains 9 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, rare in our area, only occasionally found as far south as Durban. 775. LEPIDAPLOIS AXILLARIS (Bennett). Literature L 47, 317, 613, 614, 703. Plate 52, p. 288. Depth 3-3|. D XII 10. A III 12. L.l. 28. Tr. 4 10. 10 gill-rakers. Colour somewhat variable, mostly in zones, dark blotches always as shown. Attains 8 ins. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches our east coast but rarely, and never south of Natal. 776. LEPIDAPLOIS PERDFLIO (Quoy & Gaimard). [Cossyphus atrolumhus Val.] Literature L 86, 256, 275, 614. Plate 52, p. 288. Depth 2\. D Xll 10. A III 12. L.l. 33. Tr. 5,13. 12-13 gill-rakers. Attains 20 ins. Occurs throughout the Southern tropical Indo-Pacific, rare in our area, so far found only in Delagoa Bay. Named perditio because the first specimen obtained was described on a vessel in a storm so severe that it was feared all would perish. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Fhalassoma Swainson, genotype Scarus purpureus Forskal. Lateral line single but abruptly bent downwards posteriorly. 7-8 dorsal spines, usually 8. Prominent front canines, granular teeth within mouth. No posterior canine. Brilliantly coloured fishes, abound in reefs of tropical waters of all oceans. 6 species in our area, easily distinguished by colour or pattern. 777. THALASSOMA LL'NARE (Linnaeus). Rainbow Fish (Transkei). Literature L 4, 19, 47, 252, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 53, p. 291. Depth 3] 4. D VIII 13. A III 11. L.l. 27. Tr. 3/9. 10-12 gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins. Usually green, the body fades to peacock blue shortly after death. A beautiful shapely fish found in reefs and tide-pools, not very shy, eagerly takes shrimp bait. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, is quite plentiful in Zululand, well known in Natal, and odd specimens reach East London. Known as Nila-nila in the East Indies. 778. THALASSOMA HEBRAICL'M (Lacepede). Literature L 4, 47, 128, 328, 614. Plate 53, p. 291, 2 colour patterns. Depth 3| 4. D VIII 13. A III II. L.L 28. Tr. 3 10. 13 gill-rakers. Colour variable, see Plate 53. Attains 9 ins. Confined to Indian and East African waters, nowhere abundant. Occasional specimens reach as far south as the Bashee Mouth. 779. THALASSOMA PURPURELM (Forskal). Thalassoma umhrostigmaRmpp.] Rainbow Fish (Transkei). Literature L 19, 47, 252, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 53, p. 291, juvenile and adult. Depth 3-3^ D VIII 13. A III 11. L.l. 27-30. Tr. 2 9. 14 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. Somewhat variable in colour and pattern, has numerous synonyms. A beautiful shapely fish. Occurs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific. quite abundant in all rocky areas north of Natal, odd strays reach as far south as Port .Alfred. At night may be found in tide-pools tucked into some crevice, apparently asleep, easily taken by hand. If disturbed swims around leisurely and returns to the same spot. Young fishes are rather differently but characteristically coloured (see Plate 53), and live mostly in weeds. Flesh wholesome in our area, reputed toxic at certain seasons in parts of the tropics. 780. THALASSOMA H.YRDWICKE (Bennett). [Thalassoma dorsale Q. & G.] Literature L 54, 160, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 53, p. 291. Depth 3-3|. D VII VIII 12-14. A III 11. L.l. 26-30. Tr. 3/9. 16 gill-rakers. Attains 8 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, rare in our area, not found south of Durban. Known as Chaul-chaul in the East Indies. 288 BONY FISHES— Family LABRIDAE 781. IHALASSOMA COMMERSONI (C. & V.). [Thalassoma hicolor Gnthr.] Literature L 172, 256, 580. Depth 4. D VIII 13. A HI II. L.l. 28. Tr. 3 9. Caudal lobes produecd. Body violet in front, hind half pale olive. Dorsal base and edge yellow, a broad violet band between. A blaek spot between 1st and 3rd dorsal spines. Anal basally violet, marginally yellow. A.xil of peetoral blaek, and a blaek bloteh near end of fin. Base and lobes of eaudal blaekish. Attains 8 ins. A rare speeies eonfined to the tropieal east coast of Africa, known also at Mauritius. No specimen available, any found should be preserved. 782. TH.AL,ASSOi\1.4 FUSCUS (Lacepede). Rainbow Fish. Literature L 86, 128 461 581 613 Plate 53, p. 291. Depth 3-3b. D VIII 13. A III II. L.l. 28. Tr. 3 10. II gill-rakers. By some workers regarded as identical with No. 779. but is clearly distinct. A beautiful fish, found mainly about reefs, also in tide-pools. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacifie, reaches as far south as Pondoland. Rather rare. Genus Gomphosus Laeepede, genotype Gomphosus cocrulcus Lac. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly. No scales on head. 8 dorsal spines. Characterised by the curious tubular snout, the mouth at the end adapted for nibbling at organisms in holes and crevices. 3 Indo-Pacifie species, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. 78.3. GOMPHOSUS COFRULF'.US Laeepede. Literature L 47, 252, 328, 614, 703. Plate 54, p. 293. Depth 3L D VIII 13. A III 1 1. L.l. about 28. Tr. 3-10. 14 gill-rakers. Thoueh mostly blue as shown is sometimes dominantly green. Attains II ins. Fairly well distributed in the central Indo-Paeifie, e.xtends down as far as Natal South Coast, though rare there. Agile and elusise, lives mainly in reefs, nowhere abundant. 784. GOMPHOSUS VARIUS Laeepede. Literature L 54, 128, 252, 3'>8 614 703 Plate .54 p '>93 Depth 3,U.3i D VIII 13. A III 11. L.l. 26-.30. Tr. 3 10. 14 gill-rakers. Attains Widespread in the central Indo-Pacitic, reaches our area and extends as far south as Durban, but Lives in rocky areas and about reefs. Most aeile. 0 ins. rarely seen. Genus Ananipses Quoy & Gaimard, genotype Amimpses cuvicr Q. & G. Lateral line single abruptly bent posteriorly. Fairly prominent projecting flattened teeth in front of jaws. No canines in angle of mouth Pre- opercle margin smooth. Indo-Pacific. rather rare, of 10 known species only 2 recorded from our area. Dif- terentation based largely on markings. Little is known about the habits of these fishes. 785. .\NAMPSFS DIADFMATUS Ruppell. Liferature L 86. Depth 2*-2J. D IX IUI2. A 111 12. L.l. 28-.30. Tr. 4 12. Indian species found in Durban and Delagoa Bay. Rare. 161, 275, 614, 703. Plate 54, p, 293. II gill-rakers. Attains II ins. An East Plate^54 CAERULEOPUNCTATUS Ruppell. Literature L 86, 172, 252. 328. 461. 614. 703. Depth ->3 p., -fi ■ - ^ ' U 'a "■ '■ gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. A central Indo- Pacific species, not abundant, only twice found in our area, once at Durban. Genus Hemigymnus Gunther, genotype Mullus fascia r us Thunberg. Body oblonu, compressed Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly. Prominent conical front teeth. A canine in anek of mouth Lips thick and heavy_ Preopercle margin smooth. Head naked e.xcept few scales across cheek. Only 2 rather laree species from the East Indies, both in our region, easily distinguished. ’ - P A. 4-5 distinct cross-bars . B. At most 1 cross-bar . . fuse iaius (1H7) . melaptcrus HE.MIGV.MNUS FASCl.VTLS (Bloch). Literature L 86, 128, 252, 328. 614. 703. Plate 61, p. .306, 787. juvenile. Depth about 2f D IX II. A III! 1 LI Tr d in ia le „ii i , • , . widespread in the central Indo-Pacifie, reaches DelVa Bay, ’not known” fLfht'soulh. ' PLATE 52 772. Lcpi(/cipl(>is triliiiculiis, 10 ins, 773. Lcpidaphis hirsutus, 16 ins. 774. Lcpidaplois diaiia. 8 ins. 775. Lcpidaplois axdUnis. 1 ins. 776. Lcpidaplois pcrdilio, 14 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family LABR/DAE 289 788. HEMIGYMNUS MELAPTERUS (Bloch). Literature L 88, 172, 252, 328, 614, 703. Depth about2|. DIX 10-11. AMI 10-11. L.l. about 28. Tr. 5 13. 18 gill-rakers. Attains 36 ins. Wide¬ spread in the central tropica! Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. Takes prawn and flesh, fights well. Genus Halichocrcs Ruppcil, genotype Halichoeres himaculatus Rupp. Rather elongate compressed body. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly. 3 anal spines, 1st minute, concealed. Conical teeth in front of jaws, sometimes a canine in angle of jaw. Preopercic margin smooth. Head usually naked, sometimes a few scales behind eye. Beautiful agile small Labrids, found in all tropical seas, living in weed and about reefs. Numerous species have been described, based mainly on colour and markings, which while apparently fairly constant in fundamentals, fade rapidly after death. Identification of species is therefore not easy, and requires wide experience in handling fresh material. The amateur should not be dismayed if he finds difficulty here. If possible make full colour notes and preserve all specimens obtained. 8 species recorded from our area, others probably await discovery. All but one species illustrated here. A. No scales on cheek or opercles. 1. Scales before dorsal minute ... ... ... . ... ... dianthus {1%9) 2. Scales before dorsal normal. 4 species distinguished by markings and colour as illustrated, 790 -792a, in Plate 55.* B. Scales on cheek and opcrcle. (a) Dark vertical bar on each scale ... ... ... ... ... ... centriquadrus (193) (h) Scales without bars ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... rohinsoni (19A) C. Scales on opercle, none on cheek ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... scapularis (195) 789. HAI.ICHOERES DIA.NTHUS Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 55, p. 294. Depth 3|. D IX 12. All-11112. L.l. 27-29. Tr. 3 9. 8-9 gill-rakers. Attains 4 ins. Characterised by the small scales on the nape. So far found only in Delagoa Bay. among weeds in shallow water. 790. HALICHOERE.S LAPILLUS Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 55, p. 294. Depth D IX 11. A 111 11. L.l. 29. Tr. 4 10. 10 gill-rakers. .A canine in angle of mouth. One of the most beautiful small fishes conceivable. The markings in the live hsh were like sparkling green and blue jewels on purple velvet. Only one specimen, 3.* ins. long, taken at Inhaca Island. Delagoa Bay, in shallow water among weeds. 791. HALICHOERES MGRESCENS (Schneider). [Jidis or Pla!yi;/ossus dussumieri Val] Literature L 86, 127, 252, 275, 328, 614, 703. Plate 55, p. 294. Depth 3.) -3i D IX 12. A III 12. L.l. 28-30. Tr. 3 9. 1 1 gill-rakers. Strong canine in angle of mouth. Attains 6 ins. Variable in colour and markings according to the type of weed inhabited, but black mark in pec¬ toral axil invariable. The dark spot between the 4th-5th dorsal spines may be absent. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, quite abundant in Delagoa Bay, rarely reaches Durban. * For 792a see Appendix. 290 BONY FISHES— Family LABRIDAE 792. HALICHOERES MARGARITACEUS (Valenciennes). [Platyglossus pseudominiatus Blkr. Platy- glossus opercularis Gnthr.] Literature L 54, 252, 256, 614, 703. Plate 55, p. 294. Depth 3-3^. D IX II. A III 11. L.l. 28-30. Tr. 3,9. 12 gill-rakers. Variable in colour from iridescent silvery to bronzy. A small East Indian species that penetrates our region as far south as Durban, rarely seen here. 792a. See Appendix, p. 507, and Plate 55. 793. HALICHOERES CENTRIQUADRUS (Lacepede). [Ju/is or p/atvglosxus hortulunux (Lac.).] Litera¬ ture L 86, 128, 252, 275, 328, 614, 703. Plate 56, p. 294. Depth about 3. DIX 10-11. A 111 11-12. L.l. 26-28. Tr. 4/9. 13-14 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Colour variable, sometimes yellowish. Widely distributed in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, and is more abundant northwards. Lives mainly in and about reefs, a beautiful fisb. 794. HAl.ICHOERES ROBINSONI (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Platyglossus rohinsoni.] Literature 4. 45, 47. Depth 3i D IX 12. A III 12. L.l. 27. 2 series of scales on cheek, some on opcrclcs. Probably green in life, with several reddish lines on head. Dark ocellus between 1st and 2nd dorsal spines. A red band along dorsal and along anal, with basal spots along each fin. Caudal with cross-bars. Attains 6.) ins. Only one speci¬ men ever found, in Natal, more wanted, type apparently lost. 795. HALICHOERES SC.APCLARIS (Bennett). [Platvglosstis scapidaris or ccvlonicus Benn.] Literature L 47, 256, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 55, p. 294. Depth 3]. D IX 11. A III II. L.l. 27. Tr. 3 9. 12 gill-rakers. No scales on check, a few on opercle. Attains 7 ins. Variable in colour and markings, though almost always dominantly green. Central Indo-Pacific, rarely seen in our area, never south of Natal. Genus Duymaeria Bleeker, genotype Duymaeria amhoinensis Blkr. Body fairly deep, compressed, scales large. Pelvics without filamentous ray. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly, tubules mostly simple. Large scale over pectoral base. Preopercle margin serrate. 9—10 dorsal spines. .A single small species of the Indo-Pacific, widespread, fairly common. 796. DUYMAERIA FLAGELLIEERA (Valenciennes). [Pteragogus fUamcntosus Peters. Duvmaeria filamentosa Pet., or nematoptera Blkr.] Literature L 4. 221, 252, 275, 614, 703. Plate 56, p. 294, male and female. Depth 2|-2|. D IX-X 10-12. A 111 9-10. L.l. 26. Tr. 2/7. 7 short gill-rakers. Attains 8 ins. The sexes differ in form and markings, and there are variations in colour according to the environment. In the male there is a sharp-edged hump before the dorsal, the dorsal and anal spines bear long filaments, while the caudal is much longer than in the female. This small weed-haunting Labrid is found throughout the Indo-Pacific, m shallow weedy areas, also in estuaries. Quite plentiful in Portuguese East Africa, is rarely seen in Natal. Genus Pteragogus Peters, genotype Pteragogus opercularis Peters. Body fairly deep, compressed, scales large, prominent. 1st pelvic ray filamentous. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly, tubules mostly branched. Small scales on pectoral base. Preopercle margin serrate. 10-11 dorsal spines. 2 species, found only along and marginal to the coast of East Africa, distinguished clearly by markings alone, see Plate 59. 797. PTERAGOGUS OPERCULARIS Peters. Literature L 72, 221, 256, 275. Plate 59, p. 301. Depth 2i D XI 9-10. A III 9-10. L.l. 24. Tr. 2-6. 5 gill-rakers. Canine in angle of mouth. Attains 6 ins. ound only on our east coast, rarely at Durban, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay, extends to the Red Sea also at Zanzibar. ’ 798. PTERAGOGUS TAENIOPS Peters. Literature L 221, 256, 275. Plate 59, p. 301. Depth 1\. D X 10. A HI 9-10. L.l. 24. Tr. 2 '6. 5 gill-rakers. Canine in angle of mouth 5 ms. Known only from Delagoa Bay to Zanzibar, in shallow water, among weeds. Attains 1 PKATF. .S.l 111. Thalassoma hmare, 7 ins. 778. ThuUissoimi hebraicum, 8 ins., 2 colour varieties. 779. Thalassoma purpureum, left at 12 ins., right at 2 ins. 780. Thalassoma harclwicke, 8 ins. 782. Thalassoma fiiscus, 10 ins. Actual length BONY FISHES— Family LABR/DAE 291 Genus Stethojulis Gunther, genotype Julis stn'giventer Bennett. Body smooth, rather chubby, fairly elongate. Mouth small, teeth not prominent. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly. Preopercle margin smooth. No scales on head. Small fishes of reefs and weed of the Indo-Pacific, all the known species but one in our area. When alive their colours are almost incredibly brilliant, and beyond the powers of any artist. They differ mainly in markings and colour, which are remarkably constant over wide areas of the ocean. Our 6 species are easily identified from the illustrations, see Plate 57. The blue lines shown on most species can change to emerald green. 799. STETHO.JUITS RENARDI (Bleeker). Literature L 4, 252, 317, 613, 614, 703. Plate 57, p. 296. Depth 3.1. D IX-X 11. A 11-111 11-12. L.l. 29. Tr. 3;9. 14 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Throughout the central Indo-Pacific, penetrates our region as far south as the Bashee, not uncommon in tide-pools, hiding under rocks and in weeds. 8(10. STETHOJULIS AXILLARIS (Quoy & Gaimard). [Stethojulis handanensis BIkr.] Literature L 86, 275, 461, 614, 703. Plate 57, p. 296. Depth about 3. DIXII. All 11-12. L.l. 27. Tr. 3 9. 16-18 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Dclagoa Bay, but is rare in our area. 801. STETHOJUI.IS STRIGIVENTER (Bennett). Literature L 252, 275, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 57, p. 296. Depth 3J. DIXIE A II III 11. L.l. 27. Tr. 3/9. 14 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. FAtcnds as far south as Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 802. STETHOJULIS ALBOVUT ATA (Bonnaterre). Literature L 86, 256, 461, 614, 703. Plate 57, p. 296. Depth about 3. DIXIE A II 11. L.l. 29. Tr. 3 9. 20 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Throughout the central Indo-Pacific, reaches our region, found at Delagoa Bay, not further south, rather rare in our waters. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 803. STETHOJULIS INTERRUP'TA (Bleeker). Literature L 14, 19, 252, 580, 613, 614, 703, Plate 57, p. 296. Depth 3.1-4. D IX 11. A II III 11. L.l. 27-29. Tr. 2 8. 15 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. An East Indian species quite abundant on our east coast, extending as far south as the Bashee, not uncommon in tide- pools. A flashing beauty, an adept at coneealment. 804. STETHOJULIS PHEKADOPLEURA (Bleeker). [Stethojulis kallosoma Blkr. Stethojulis trossula J. & S.]. Literature L 252, 317, 466. 580, 613, 614, 703. Plate 57, p. 296. Depth about 4. DIXII. A 11-111 lO-1 1. L.l. 26. Tr. 3 8. 1 1-12 gill-rakers. Attains 5 ins. Wide¬ spread in the central Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as East London, quite eommon in tide-pools, hides under rocks and in weeds, easily concealed. Genus Fissilabrus Kner, genotype Cossyphus dimUliatus Val. Body fairly elongate. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly. Lower lip bilobed. Scales small, present on head also. Only one species. 805. FISSIL.VBRUS DIMIDI.MUS (Valenciennes). [Lahroides dunidiatus. or puradiseus Blkr.] Literature L 4, 172, 252, 328, 580, 613, 614. 703. Plate 63, p. 311. Depth 4>-5. D IX 10-11. A 111 10. L.l. 50-53. Tr. 5 12. 6 gill-rakers. Attains 4 ins. An agile shapely streak of marine beauty which swims with smooth grace weaving in and out of crevices and tunnels in rock pools. The colour varies rapidly from light pink through straw yellow to dark blue, apparently at will and according to the emotional state of the fish. Feeds on minute organisms on rocks, and has been observed to nibble over the mouth parts and gill-covers of large Rock-cods. An East Indian species, extends as far south as East London, not uncommon north of the Bashee, often seen in tide-pools. 292 BONY FISHES— Family LABRIDAE Genus Coris Lacepede, genotype Coris aygula Lac. Smooth compressed fairly elongate body, with small scales. Head normally almost scaleless. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly. Hind canines sometimes present. Brilliant fishes of Indo-Pacitic coral reefs. Sometimes difficult to identify as markings change with deve¬ lopment. 4 species in our area. A. L.l. 50-65. 3 species distinguished by markings, i.e. 806, 807, 808. B. L.l. 70-85 . yaimard (809) 806. CORIS ANGULATA Lacepede. [Com or JuHs aygulii or cinyuhon Lac.] Literature L 86, 613, 614. 703. Plate 101, p Fig. 806. CORIS A.SGULATA Lac. .luvenilc. actual length 4.} ins Depth about 3. D IX 12-13. A III 12. L.l. 62-66. Tr. 9 24. 1 1-1 3 gill-rakcrs. The largest of this genus attains 4 ft. Adults develop a hump on the forehead. The young are spotted as shown, with 2 red, pink or orange blotches on body. Adults usually dull green, with reddish stripes and spots on head. Fins variably greenish with some reddish markings. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in our area at Dclagoa Bay and Kosi Bay. only juveniles known here. 807. CORIS C.4LDlM.4CUL.-\ (Quoy & Gaimard). Literature L 47, 160,252,614 703 Plate 58 p 298 Depth about 3|. D IX 12-13. A 111 12-13. L.l. 50-53. Tr. 4 19. 1 1 gill-rakers. ' Attains 7 in's ' A bril¬ liant agile small fish of reefs of the warmer Indo-Pacific. Extends as far south as Last London, not uncommon. 808. CORIS MULTICOLOR (Ruppell). Literature L 54, 161, 613, 614 Depth 3f. D IX 11-12. AMI 11-12. L.l. 50-55. Tr. 4-6 20. 1 1 gill-rakers. ,4ttains 6 ins. Body blue- green, yellowish under pectoral, 6-7 narrow greenish cross-bars. Fins mainly greenish yellow with reddish spots or stripes, sometimes lighter streaks on head. Tropical Indian Ocean, parts of central Pacific, has been recorded from our area. Specimens wanted. Doubtfully distinct from No. 807. 809. CORIS G.4IM.4RD (Quoy & Gaimard). [Coris formosa Benn. Coris puUherrima Gnthr Coris Cerei Plyfr.] Literature L 86. 613. 614. 703. Plate 58. p, 298. 2 colour patterns Depth 3], D IX 12-13. A III 12-13. L.l. 70-80. Tr. 8 30. 12 gill-rakers. Attains 1 5 ins. Widely distri¬ buted in the Indo-Pacific. reaches Delagoa Bay. not abundant in our area. A puzzling form showing wide varieties m colour and markings. At present accepted as only one species, it is likely that more careful studv may show that several are being confused. Specimens wanted. Genus Hologymnosus Lacepede, genotype Hohyymnosus fasciaius Lac. Fairly elongate body with very small scales. Lateral line single, abruptly bent posteriorly. No .scales on head. A single Indo-Pacific species. 810. HOLOGYMNOSUS SEMIDISCUS (Lacepede). [Com or Lahrus or JuUs annulatus Lac. //o/o- , :^-y^ ^2 . t.f'j e '* ‘ '-v;'.^ aw ^ •■' f' /* - **A '• ^ i-Q;- . -^'i; AliiL#' L- -A. PLATF, 54 783. Gomphosiis caeruhus, 6 ins. 784. Gomphosus iarius. 5 ins. 785. Anampses diaJematus 9 ins caeruleopimaaius, 1 ms. Actual length stated in each case. 786. Anampses BONY FISHES— Family LABR/DAE 293 Genus Iniistius Gill, genotype Xyrichthys pavo C. & V. Body compressed, with blunt head. Lateral line in 2 parts, the hind short lower part on peduncle. 1st 2 dorsal spines isolated as a separate fin on the head. A single Indo-Pacific species. 811. INIISTIIJS PAVO (C. & V.). [Xyrichthys pavo or pavoninus C. & V. Novacula or Iniistius tetrazona Blkr.] Literature L 252, 433, 461, 580, 584, 682, 703. Plate 60, p. 303. Depth 2^—2. D II • VII 12—13. A III 12-13. L.l. 20-F5— 6. Tr. 2 10. Attains 14 ins. Colour rather variable, usually with obscure cross-bars. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, nowhere abundant, occurs from the Red Sea along our east coast, not anywhere common, extends to Natal. Genus llemipterunotus Lacepede, genotype Hemipteronotus quinquemaculatus Lac. Body fairly deep, com¬ pressed, with blunt head. Lateral line in 2 parts, the short hind lower on peduncle. The 1st 2 dorsal spines on head remote from the others but connected by membrane. About 6 Indo-Pacific species, only one in our area. 812. HEMIPFERONOrUS PENTADACTYLUS (Linnaeus). [Novacula pentadactyla, or tesseilata Val. Hemipteronotus punctukita Val.] Literature L 14, 105, 252, 328, 580, 613, 614, 703. Plate 60, p. 303. Depth about 3. D IX 12. A III 11-12. L.l. 20-224-4—5. Tr. 3'9. 7-9 series of cheek scales, extend to lower part of preopcrcle. 7-8 gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Colour somewhat variable. Widespread in the tropi¬ cal Indo-Pacific, rarely seen in our area, extends to Natal. Genus Novaculichthys Bleeker, genotype Lahrus taeniourus Lac. Body rather elongate and compressed, with fairly large scales, none on opcrcle. Teeth conical, no hind canine. Lateral line in 2 parts, the hinder short lower portion on caudal peduncle. In the young the front of the dorsal fin is elevated, also the colour changes with growth. A few small Labrids from the tropical Indo-Pacific, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. 813. NOVACULICHITIYS MACR()I.EPIIK)'rUS (Bloch). [Hemipteronotus macrolepidotus.] Litera¬ ture L 4, 14, 117, 252, 613, 614, 703. Plate 60, p. .303, juvenile and adult. Depth .hj. D IX 12-14. A III 12-13. L.l. 19-204-4-6. Tr. 2/9. 12 gill-rakers. Attains 9 ins. A beauti¬ ful agile small fish of weedy areas of the tropics. Markings somewhat variable, but the fish is always vivid green and unmistakable. Inflicts painful nips with the front canines when handled. Widespread in the central Indo- Pacific, abundant in Delagoa Bay, sometimes extends as far south as Durban. 814. NOVACULICHTHYS TAENIOURUS (Lacepede). Literature L 87, 275, 613, 614, 703. Plate 60, p. 303. Depth 3. D IX 12-13. A III 12-14. L.l. 19-20 • 5-6. Tr. 2 10. II gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Rarely found in Delagoa Bay, is widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific. Genus Cheilinus Lacepede, genotype Cheilinus trilohatus Lac. Body fairly deep and compressed. 9 dorsal spines. No canine in angle of mouth. Large scales. Lateral line in 2 parts, lower hinder on caudal peduncle. Fins often filamentous. Bold coloured often large Labrids of the Indo-Pacific, one attaining a weight of over 2(X) lbs. Large specimens often develop a hump on the forehead. Valued as food. 4 species in our area, but rarely .seen, and then mostly as juveniles, since adults rarely wander far from the tropics. A. Preopercle flange entirely covered by cheek scales . himaculatus {%\5) B. Preopcrcle flange at angle not covered by cheek scales . trilohatus (816) C. Preopercle flange quite naked. 1. Head at least 1 J times as long as deep . diagrammus (817) 2. Head barely longer than deep ... ... ... ... ... ... ... undulatus (S\7a) 815. CHEILINUS BIMACUL.ATUS Valenciennes. [Cheilinus mossambicus Gnthr., or ceramensis Blkr. or hifasciatus Blkr.] Literature L 86, 252, 275, 461, 614, 703. Plate 61, p. 306. Depth about 21. D IX 10. A III 8. L.l. 12-15 -5-7. Tr. 2 6. 5-6 short gill-rakers. Attains 9 ins. Mark¬ ings and colour variable, rather vivid. Juveniles have a wide dark stripe running from head to tail, which with growth breaks up. The play of colour over body and fins of the dying fish is gorgeous beyond description. Wide¬ spread in the central Indo-Pacific, rare in our area, extends to Delagoa Bay, found among weeds in shallow water. 294 BONY FISHES-^Family LABRIDAE 816. CHEILINUS TRILOBATUS Lacepede. Literature L 86, 252, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 56, p. 294, juvenile and adult. Depth about 2J. D IX 10. A III 8. L.l. 14-16 + 7-8. Tr. 2 6. 5-6 short gill-rakers. A rather mottled and streaked species. Attains 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in our area, but not south of Delagoa Bay. 817. CHEILINUS DI.AGRA.MMUS (Lacepede). [Cheilinits mdiatiis (Bl.).] Literature L 4, 127, 252, 317, 613, 614, 703. Depth 2|-3. D IX 10. A III 8. L.l. 15-16 + 7-8. Tr. 2/6. Lateral line tubes simple. 10 gill-rakers. Attains 15 ins. Olive-green, with 3 faint cross-saddles, one over nape, one below spinous, and one below soft dorsal. Dorsal and anal rather blotchy, greenish. Caudal marbled yellow. Pectoral grey, pelvics light, with brown speckles at base and tip. Iris reddish. Light marks on Fig. 817 bright red in life. Central Indo-Pacific. Rare in our area, not yet found south of Delagoa Bay. 817a. CHEILINUS UNDUL.VTUS Ruppell. Literature L 161, 252, 275, 328, 614, 703. Depth about 21. D IX 10. A III 8. L.l. 14 16 • 7 8. Tr. 2-6. 6 scales before dorsal. II 12 gill-rakers. Mainly dull olive-green, mottled. Each scale with vertical purplish line. Lines and streaks on head. Dorsal and anal with red and green bars and dots. Caudal slaty, yellow behind. Pectoral greenish, pelvics light yellow. The largest Labrid, attains over 7 ft. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Delagoa Bay. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Thalliurus Swainson, genotype Crenitahrus hlochii Swnsn. Body fairly deep and compressed. No canine in angle of mouth. Large scales. 10 dorsal spines. Lateral line in 2 parts, lower hinder on caudal peduncle. One species. 818. THALLIURUS CHLORLRUS (Bloch). [Cliilinus or CheiUnus chhrurus. Cheilinus punctulatus Val. or punctatus Benn.] Literature L 1 17, 252, 275, 328, 613, 614, 703. Plate 61, p. 306. Depth about 2.1. D X 9. A 111 7-8. L.l. 15 - 5-8. Tr. 2/6. 5- 6 gill-rakers.’ Attains 12 ins. A central Indo-Pacific species, e.xtends to Delagoa Bay, but rare in our area, found among weeds in shallow water Genus Pseudocheilinus Bleeker, genotype Cheilinus hexataenia Blkr. Body almost oval, compressed Upper front canines flare outwards. No canine in angle of mouth. Scales large. Lateral line in 2 parts, the lower hinder on caudal peduncle. Only one species. [Pseuciochei/inus octotaenia Jenkins, and evanulus 819. P.SEUDOCHEILL\US HEXATAENIA (Bleeker). J. & E.] Literature L 86, 613, 614, 703. Plate 61, p. 306. Depth about 2i. D IX 11-12. A III 8-9. L.l. 15-18:4-7. Tr. 2/7. 8 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. Widely distributed in the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon in our area, juveniles extend as far south as Delaeoa Bay. A beautiful fish. ^ f' k K . ; -.v ,s , 789, Halichneres dianthus, 4 choeres margarilalus. 3 ins. h'LA I h 55 3.J ins. 791 . /Michocres nigrescent. 4.1 in 792a Hal, choeres kawarin. 4 ins. 795. Halichneres scapnlaris, 5 ins aelagoae, 3 ms. Actual length slated in each case. 792. 930. (Johius 793. HaUchoeres 100 (>•) No caudal fin ... (^) Dorsal starts near snout. (i) Some scales with a hook (ii) No scales with a hook B. Snout produced as a spear. 1. No pelvics 2. Pelvics present . Scomhridae (828-839) Scomheromoridae (840-844) Stromateidae (845-858) Bramidae (859-860) Gempylidae (861-866) Lepidopidae (867-868) Trichiuridae (869) Pteraclidae (870-871) Coryphaenidae (872) Xiphiidae (873) I.stiophoridae (876) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family SCOMBRIDAE TINA: TUNNY: BONITO: ALBACORE: MACKEREL Characteristic torpedo-shaped powerful body, mostly metallic blue or blue-green above. Scales minute, in many cases restricted to a corselet round the front part of the body. Gill-rakers usually slender, fairly numerous. Dorsal in several parts, anteriorly spines alone which may be separate, then a more or less anteriorly elevated .soft fin, followed by a series of detached finlets. Finlets behind anal also. One or more keels at caudal base. Mouth large, teeth usually feeble. Mostly large swift powerful fishes of surface waters found in all but the coldest seas. Among them are some of the most famous game-fishes of the world. .Many are of considerable importance as food, though more popular canned than fresh. The flesh of most is oily, rich and tasty, in some cases reddish. It is possible that at least a few of these fishes are progressing towards being warm-blooded, which may explain their great energy. Some species exhibit a puzzling variety of form so that a number of artificial or “Museum” species have been created, which is confusing. About 9 valid genera, of which 7 have been found in our area. Probably most species pass through our seas and will eventually be found here. “The South African Tunas” by Dr. C. J. Molteno (1948), is an excellent general treatise by an expert with wide experience of the living fishes- .A. A single keel on peduncle at end of L.l. 1. Pectoral not or barely longer than postorbital. (rt) No scales on hinder part of body. (i) Separate 1st dorsal of II spines (ii) 1st dorsal 12-16 spines (h) Whole body scaly. (i) 12-15 dorsal spines . (ii) 18-24 dorsal spines 2. Pectoral much longer than postorbital B. 2 keels each side of peduncle. 1. Depth 3-4 . . 2. Depth 4J-6 . . Auxis (828) Euthynnus (829-830) Thunnus (831) Sarda (832-833) Germo (834-836) Rastrelliger (837-838) Scomber (839) 298 BONY FISHES- Family SCOMBRI DAE Genus Auxis Cuvier, genotype the single species. Rather plump body. 1st dorsal of 1 1 spines, quite separate from rest of fin. Pectoral not longer than postorbital. 828. AUXIS THAZARD (Lacepedc). Frigate Mackerel. Judeu (Angola). Literature L 16, 20, 583, 655. Plate 65, p. 312. Depth about 4. D XI 1 l-l2-|-8. A 13 ; 7. About 30 slender gill-rakers. One series of tine conical teeth in jaws, none on palate. Scales only as a corselet. Attains at least 24 ins. In all but the coldest waters in all seas, has been found at the Cape and in Natal, only occasionally in our area, on a few occasions in shoals. Flesh wholesome but not of much commercial value. Genus Euthynnus Jordan & Gilbert, genotype Scomber pe/amis Linn. Fairly robust body, scaly anteriorly only, forming a corselet. Pectoral not longer than postorbital. 1st dorsal of 12 16 spines close to soft dorsal. 2 species of open water of all tropical seas. A. Dark stripes along lower side ... ... ... ... ,,, ... ... pdamis (829) B. No dark stripes along lower side ... ... ... ... ... ... ... al/elcralus (830) 829. EUTHYNNUS PEL.AMIS (Linnaeus). [GymnoscirBa or Katsuwonus pckimys.] Skipjack. Bonita. Watermelon. Literature L 4. 461, 655. Plate 65, p. 312. Depth about 31,-4. D Xll XVI 12-13 * 8. A 1 III 12- 7 8, L.l. distinctly curved below soft dorsal. About 35 gill-rakers. Attains 36 ins. In all but the coldest seas, not often inshore, has been found from Knysna to Delagoa Bay, only rarely taken in estuaries. Feeds mainly on surface fishes. Fights well when hooked. Flesh good, used mainly for canning, an important food-fish of the East and of America. 830. EUTHYNNUS .ALEE 1 ER.YI L S ( Ratinesque). [Tliumiiis thumuna or Ciymiiosarc/a allcleruta.] Little Tunny or Tuna. .Mackerel Tuna. Mcrnia. Literature L 19, 655. Plate 65, p. 312. Depth about 4. D XV XVI 1 1 13 • 8. A II III 10-124-6 8. L.l. straight to below soft dorsal. .About 25 gill-rakers. 15 dusky spots below pectoral .sometimes present, may all be ab.sent. .Attains at least 4 ft. In all warm seas, mainly in open water. The young come inshore, sometimes in estuaries. ,A swift game lish, lives mainly on surtace fishes. Has been found from East London to Delagoa Bav. The flesh is good, but curiously enough its flavour is not popular, even when canned. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Ihunnus South, genotype Scomber thynnus Linn. Robust body with small scales, a corselet anteriorly. 12-15 dorsal spines, end close against soft fin. In all but the coldest seas, one or at most two species. The well-known Tunny is found in our area. 831. THUNNUS THY N.NUS (Linnaeus). Tunny. Luna. Bludin Funny or Luna. Literature L 4. 105, 154, 601, 655. Plate 66, p. 314. Depth about 4. D Xll-XV 12-14 + 8-10. A I III 11 12 7 9. 26-31 .slender gill-rakers. Often silvery spots on side. Attains 14 It. and a weight of close on a ton. .A wide ranging restless fish found in all but the coldest seas. One of the finest game fishes in the world, much prized by big game anglers. Many books have been written about the prowess of this amazing fish. The flesh is of the first rank and highly prized both fresh and canned. The Tunny moves in more or less regular beats in the seas. The " Golden Horn •' takes its name from the wealth derived from the great catches of Tunny made there, mainly by harpoon. Previously regarded as a rare migrant to our waters, in 1946 large shoals of smallish Tunny at the Cape caused an angling sensation, but the commercial fishermen have long known of their presence, especially in Cape waters. Genus Sarda Cuvier, genotype Scomber sarda Linn. Robust bodv wholly scaly, forming corselet in front Pectoral not longer than postorbital. 18-22 spines in 1st dorsal. In open seas in all but the coldest water few species, none large, 2 in our area. A. 18-19 dorsal spines B. 20-24 dorsal spines... chilensis (832) sarda (833) PI ATr 58 809. Coris guiniard, 9 ins., 2-i.’oloLir patterns Actual lengths stated. 807. Coris cauiUnuicula, 5 Ins BONY FISHES — Family SCOMBRIDAE 299 832. SARDA CHILENSIS (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Bonito. Literature L 16, 20, 72, 154, 328, 461, 580. Plate 64, p. 312. Depth about 4!,. D XVIII-XIX i 14 16 } 6-9. A Il-Ill 10 12 16-9. 8 gill-rakers. Attains at least 40 ins. An Indo-Pacific species, nowhere abundant, reaches as far south as Durban. Fights well when hooked. Flesh rather strongly flavoured, but delicate and tasty. 833. SARDA SARDA (Bloch). Bonito. Blue Bonito. Katonkel (Cape). Sarrajao. Literature L 1 1 7, 1 54, 655. Plate 66, p. 314. Depth about 4-41. D XX XXIV l 14-17 t 7-9. A II-IV 11-13 1 7-8. 12 14 gill-rakers. Attains at least 30 ins. In all but the coldest waters of the Atlantic, prefers the open sea, occasionally taken at the Cape. A good fighter. Flesh excellent, fresh or canned. Genus Germo Jordan, genotype Scomber alalmga Gmelin. Robust body, scales form a corselet in front. Pectoral as long as or longer than head. 13-15 spines in 1st dorsal. Swift fishes of open seas of all oceans, few species, rather variable and puzzling, 3 in our area. A. Pectoral docs not reach soft dorsal ... ... ... . ... ... itosihi (834) B. Pectoral reaches below soft dorsal . . alhacora (835) C. Pectoral reaches below dorsal finlets . alalimga (836) 8.34. (JERMO rrOSIBI (Jordan & Evermann). [Neothunnus itosihi.] Japanese or Itoshibi Tuna or Tunny. Literature 1. 67, 613. Plate 65, p. 312. Depth about 4.1 5. D XV 14 • 8 9. A II 12 ) 8 9. Attains at least 7 ft. Tropical Pacific, reaching to the west coast of America, once seen at Knysna and Algoa Bay. A rare fish, flesh excellent. The specimen at Knysna, about 6 ft. in length, was captured in a net in the lagoon and fought furiously, but was unfortunately not preserved. One caught on a line (live Shad, No. 547, as bait), at Port Elizabeth is mounted in the Museum there. 835. (iERMO .\I,BACORA (Lowe). [Thunnus or Neothunnus alhacora. Germo or neothunnus macropterus T. &. S., or allisoni Nichols.] Yellowfin Tunny or Tuna. Allison Tunny or 'Tuna. Literature L 174, 496, 655. Plate 66, p. 314. Depth about 4. D XIII-XIV 12-| 8 9. A II 111 12-(-7-8. Length of soft dorsal and anal variable, increasing with age, also length of pectoral, but latter less variable, reaches below though never beyond 2nd dorsal. Known by the bright yellow detached finlets. Attains at least 8 ft. In all warm seas, prefers open water, a beautiful game fish. Has been taken at Algoa Bay and Durban, rare in our area. Flesh excellent, fresh or canned. 8.36. GERMO ,\L.4LLNGA ( Bonnaterre). Albacore. Longfin Tunny or Tuna. Avoador. Germon. l-iterature L 4. 154, 601, 655. Plate 66, p. 314. Depth about 31 4. D XIII XV 14 I5-f8-9. A II 111 ll-12-|-7-8. 16 gill-rakers. Attains at least 5 ft. In open water of all warm seas, has been found off the south-west Cape coast and at Durban. Flesh excellent, both fresh, canned or preserved. Genus Rastrclliger Jordan & Starks, genotype Scomber hrachysomus Blkr. Fairly robust body. 2 small keels each side at caudal base. Teeth feeble. A few species of the tropical Indo-Pacific, 2 in our area. A. 25 35 gill-rakers . kanagurla (837) B. 40 or more gill-rakers ... .. ■ ■ hrachysoma (838) 837. RASTRELLIGER KANAGURTA (Russell). [Scomber or Rastrclliger microlepidotus Rupp.] Literature L 4, 21, 47, 328, 594. Plate 68, p. 328. Depth about 3i. D IX-X-(- 1 1-12 5. A l-ll 11-12--5. 25-35 gill-rakers. Pectoral covers a dark spot. Attains 12 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 300 BONY FISHES— Family SCO M BEROMO R! DAE 838. RASTRELl.IGER BRACHYSOMA (Bleeker). Literature L 4, 47, 328. Depth about 3|. D IX X • 12~I3 i 5. A I 1 1 i 5. About 45 gill-rakers. Silvery, with green-blue metallic sheen, marked much as No. 837, but with 2 shining spots above and behind each eye, and hind part of 1st dorsal dark. Attains 12 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban, rare in our area. Genus Scomber Linnaeus, genotype Scomber scomhrus Linnaeus. Elongate body, wholly scaly. 2 small keels each side at caudal base. Fine slender teeth in jaws and on palate. Brilliant metallic colours. Mackerels are found in most temperate seas, often in great shoals, and are important and valued food-fishes, but must be eaten fresh as they spoil easily. Mackerel is the only fish that may be hawked in London during Sundays. The flesh is well flavoured and of high food value, being oily. Numerous species have been described, but many are artificial if only becau.se these fishes apparently travel great distances. It would not be surprising to find at most only 2 distinct species. Only 1 in our area. 839. SCOMBER JAPONICUS Houttuyn. [Scomber or Pneumatophorus coUas Lowe. Scomber gigas Fowler.] Mackerel. Makreel. Literature L 4, 21, 41, 568. Plate 68, p. 328. Fig. 839. SCOMBER JAPOMC'i S Houtt. Actual length 24 ins. Depth variable, about 5. D IX-X 11-12 + 5-6. A 1 1+12 + 5-6. 27-33 gill-rakers. Attains 26 ins. In all but the coldest and the warmest seas. Occurs at times in vast shoals, and when these come inshore great numbers are taken by nets and by lines. Often taken by small trolled baits. In our area fairly cominon about the Cape, progressively scarcer towards Natal. From Algoa Bay to Delagoa Bay larger specimens averaging 24 ins. long are found in 30-80 fathoms. These differ from the smaller in having dark mottlings over most of the sides and belly. Family SCOMBEROMORIDAE Elongate rather compressed body, usually cigar-shaped, mostly with minute scales. Large mouth, normally with strong compressed teeth. Gill-rakers at most tew, poorly developed. Dorsal of 16-25 spines in front and with detached finlets behind. Anal with finlets. Usually one keel on peduncle at end of lateral line. Mostly large active switt predaceous fishes of all warm seas, some among the foremost game-fishes of the world. They rank among the best table fishes, but only one or two are abundant. A fair number of nominal species have been described, and probably there are not 10 in all. 3 genera, 2 in our area, the other will almost certainly be found here. A. Scales minute. 1. Less than 20 dorsal spines ... ... ... ... ... . Scomberomorus (840 842) 2. About 25 dorsal spines ... ... ... ... ... . . Aca/itliocybium (843) B. Scales moderate, about 80 series . Gasu-rochisma (844) Genus Scomberomorus Lacepede, genotype Scomberomorus plumieri Lacep. Elongate compressed body with minute scales. 14-19 dorsal spines. Flat triangular teeth in each Jaw, fine teeth on vomer. Mostly large fishes of tropical waters, swift and voracious, some attaining over 100 lbs. in weight. Magnificent game-fishes, and the flesh is of the first rank. Numerous species have been described but many will prove artificial. A revision based on world-wide material is long overdue, and would almost certainly result in drastic reduction of the number of Museum species. 2 are quite common in our warmer waters, one other included here is eertain to be found. ■7G-7 D PLATE 59 . terasogus opercularis, 6 ins. 798. Pteragogus loeniops, 5 ins. 810. Hohgymnosus semkliscns, 17 ins, BONY FISHES— Family SCO M BERO MORI DAE 301 A. Body with cross-bars, more with age . commerson (840) B. Body with spots, no bars. 1. Indo-Pacific . leopardus (841) 2. Atlantic . ... . ... . . maculatus (842) 840. SCOMBEROMORUS COMMERSON (Lacepede). {Cyhium or Scomheromorus commersonii.] Katonkcl (Eastern Cape). Barracuda or Kuda (Natal). Bonita (Delagoa Bay). Serra (Portuguese). Spanish Mackerel. Literature L 19, 21, 47, 126, 328, 710, 714. Plate 64, p. 312, juvenile and adult. Depth about 4|-5i D XV-XVll 14 17-f 9-12. A 14-17 - 8-12. About 5 feeble gill-rakers. L.l. strongly curved below finlets. Markings change with age. Attains at least 6 ft. and a weight of over 100 lbs., average good fishes in our area about 30 lbs. Ranges over most of the warmer Indo-Pacific. This is the most abundant and widespread species occurring at times in great numbers. A voracious and vigorous predatory fish, swift and fierce. Eagerly sought as the flesh is excellent. It is one of the finest game-fishes and reaches as far south as Mossel Bay in summer, not uncommon in Algoa Bay, abundant from Durban northwards. 841. .SCO.MBEROMORUS LEOPARDUS (Shaw). [Cyhium or Scomheromorus lineolatus C. & V., or inlerruptum Cuv.] Snoek (Natal). Literature L 16, 47, 154, 328, 714. Plate 64, p. 312. Depth about 4|. D XV XVI 16-17 -9-10. A 16-hlO. 6 feeble gill-rakers. L.l. almost straight from below dorsal. Spots usually horizontally elongate. Attains at least 4 ft. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Algoa Bay, not uncommon in Natal and further north, sometimes in great shoals. A fine game-fish and excellent eating. Probably most spotted Indo-Pacific forms fall here. 842. SCO.MBEROMORUS MACULATUS (Mitchill). .Spanish Mackerel. Literature L 154, 568, 655. Kig. 842. SCO M HERO MORVS MACULATES Mitch. After Jordan. Depth about 4J. D XVll 16-18 8-9. A 16-17 8. 12 gill-rakers. L.l. somewhat wavy below soft dorsal. Spots large, usually more or less circular. Brilliant iridescent purple above with golden gloss on sides. Dorsal dark, other fins lighter. Attains at least 40 ins. Tropical Atlantic, well known in tropical West Africa, not yet found in our region, but likely occurs off the Cape. A fine sporting and table fish. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus .Acanthocybium Gill, genotype the single species. Elongate compressed body with minute scales. 25 spines in 1st dorsal. Mouth large, beak-like, with large teeth, maxilla sheathed beneath preorbital. One large rather rare oceanic fish. 843. ACANTHOCYBIUM SOLANDRl (Cuvier). Wahoo. Literature L 613, 714. Plate 64, p. 312. Depth about 6.L D XXV-XXVll 13 -9 A 12 -8. Attains a weight of over 100 lbs. Widespread but nowhere abundant, in all tropical seas, has been found in Delagoa Bay and at Durban. To capture one is an event for most anglers. .A swift voracious fish, a formidable antagonist for the angler. Experiments have shown this to be one of the fastest, if not the fastest of fishes. Any specimen found should be preserved. 26 302 BONY FISHES— Family STROM ATE! DAE Genus Gasterochisma Richardson, genotype the single species. Compressed body with distinct scales. Small conical teeth in jaws and on palate. 844. GASTEROCHISMA MELAMPUS Richardson. Literature L 4, 189. 374, 471, 529. Fig. 844. GASTEROCHISMA MELAMPUS Rich. After Gunther. Depth about 3.L D XVI 1 10-11 ■ 6-7. A 11 10 ■ 6-7. Maxilla reaches below eye. Caudal cre.scentic. Pectoral about 1 head length. Pelvics variable, usually about pectoral length. Silvery, bluish above. Attains probably 6 ft. A rare fish known from Australia, Argentine and once at the Cape. Changes considerably with growth. Family STROMATEIDAE Body variously elongate to rather deep, sometimes compressed, with moderate scales easily shed. Mouth moderate, with a single series of small conical teeth, none on palate. Dorsal and anal lone, spinous dorsal some¬ times separate, spines rather feeble. The mam characteristics are curious lateral sacs m the oesophagus lined with teeth, and the pelvies are fully attached to the belly by a membrane and completely depressible into a groove. In some cases the pelvics diminish or even vanish with age. ,A curious group of fishes, with representatives in almost all seas, many in deep water, mostly rather small, none abundant, but the flesh of most is excellent. In many forms profound changes occur with growth. Some are quite rare, and in only relatively few cases are full growth series known. A world revision of all available material would yield interesting results. Numerous genera, 9 in our seas, more likely to be found here. A. A single dorsal fin not markedly notched. 1. Pelvics absent in adult ... . 2. Pelvics present in adult. (a) Depth 2-3]. (i) Dorsal spines feeble. (.v) Pelvics before pectoral ( r) Pelvics below or behind pectoral (ii) Dorsal spines distinct . (/)) Depth 3|-4 . B. Dorsal deeply notched, almost divided. 1 . Pelvics originate before or below pectoral base, (a) Depth 2-2^. (i) Scales more than 100 series (ii) Scales 40-50 series . (h) Depth 3i-3| . 2. Pelvics originate behind pectoral base Genus Stromateus Linnaeus, genotype Stromateus fiatola Linn. Ovoid compressed body with small scales One dorsal fin, not notched, spines feeble. Pelvics small, usually absent in adult. 2 species. A. Spots on body, no eross-bars B. Cross-bars on body Stronuueus (845 846) ScheihphUus (847) Mupus (848) Palinurichihys (849) Ccntrolophus (850) Papyrichihys (851) Psenes (852 854) N omens (855) Cuhh eps (856 858) fiatola (845) fasciatus (846) PLATE 60 ! BONY FISHES -Family STROMATEfDAE 303 845. STROIVIATEUS FIATOEA Linnaeus. [Stromateus capensis Pappe.] Butterfish. Cape l.ady. Pam- pelmoes. Biucfish. Literature L 4, 14, 1 10, 209, 580, 655. Plate 63, p. 311. Depth about 21. D V-VIII 37 40. A III 31 33. About 120 series of scales. 10-12 gill-rakers. Attains 18 ins. An Atlantic species. In our area quite common in 30-80 fathoms from the Cape to Natal, also sometimes taken from the shore. A beautiful fish, flesh delicate and tasty, but does not keep well. 846. STROMATEUS FASCIATUS (Risso). [Stromafeiis microcliirus Gnthr.] Literature L 48, 157,655. Plate 97, p. 413. Depth about 2. D 40 47. A 33-38. More than 150 series of scales. 10-12 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. An Atlantic species occasionally found from the Cape to Algoa Bay, shore to deeper water, rare in our area. Lives with large jelly-fishes. Genus Schedophilus Cocco, genotype the single species. Highly compressed flabby body with small scales. A single dorsal fin. Preopercle margin spiny. L.l. curves down and straightens. 847. SCHEnOPHII.US MEDU.SOPHACUS C occo. [Mupus or Lirus medusophagus.] Literature L 63, .367, 394, 655. Fig. X47. sc HEDOPHU.US MEDUSOPHAGUS Cocco. Actual length 5 ins. Depth near 21. f) 38 52. A 25 35. About 135 series of scales. 15 gill-rakers. Greenish olive. .Attains 10 ins. In all but the coldest seas, the young are pelagic, but the species descends to about 100 fathoms. Has been found in Natal, specimens should be preserved. Genus Mupus Cocco. genotype Mupus imperiali.s Cocco. Highly compressed body with small scales. One dorsal fin, spines feeble. Preopercle spiny. L.L parallel with back. Several species, 2 in our area. A. Depth about 2 . maculatus (848) B. Depth 24-3 . oyalis (848a) 848. MIPIS MACULATUS (Gunther). muculatus.] Literature L 48, 279, 435, 655. Depth about 2. D IV 1X 27 31. A III 21 24. About 100 series of scales. 13 14 gill-raker>. Yellowish, slaty above. Attains 34 ins. In almost all warm seas, has been found at the C'apc and at Algoa Bay, rare in our area, specimens wanted. 848a. .MUPUS ONWUIS (Valenciennes). Literature L 157, 247, 435, 655. Depth about 2.^3. D Vl-VIIl 27-33. A III 20-33. About 100 series of scales. Tr. about 14-16 above. 16 gill-rakers. Greenish or greyish above, lighter below. Attains over 20 ins. Atlantic, surface to 200 fathoms, has been found off our west coast. Fig. 848. MUPUS MACULATUS (Gnthr.). .After von Bonde. 304 BONY FISHES Family STROM ATFJDAE Genus Palinurichthys Bleeker. A single dorsal fin, with 6 9 fairly strong spines in front, the 1st shortest, graduated, the longest shorter than front soft rays. Pelvics present in all stadia, inserted below pectoral base. Lateral line at most feebly curved. An ill-defined group of about 6 species, 3 in our area. All specimens should be preserved. A. Depth 2J-2J. 1. D VI 24. A 111 20 2. D IX 18-20. A IN 14 16 B. Depth about 3 priiii'lei (849) poroxus (849a) iiinhiangae (849b) 849. PALINURICHTHYS PRINGLEl Smith. Literature L 9N, Fig. 849, PALISVRICHTHYS PRINGLEl Smith. Actiitil length 14 in.s. Depth 2^. D VI 24. A III 20. L.l. about 80. Tr. about 14 32. 14 15 fairly long normal gill-rakers. Head naked, porous. Teeth fine, in a single row in each jaw. Dark, almost black. Known from I specimen, 14 ins. in length, taken in 180 fathoms off Dassen Island. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 849a. PALINURICH 1 H\ S POROSUS ( Richards). [Diagranvna or Hypcrotilrphe porosa. Lirui poroxus ] Literature L 240, 374, 435. • . . / ■ / Depth 2. L D IX 20. A 111 16. L.l. 90-100. Tr. 14/30. .Attains 15 ins. Juveniles known from the central Pacific, one adult reported from off the western Cape. Rare. 849b. PALINURICHTHYS UMHLANGAE Smith, Literature L 91«. F,g. 849b. palinurichthys U M HLANG A E Smnh. Actual length ii ins. Depth about 3. D VI VII 22-23. A 111 21-22. above. So far found only at Umhlanga, Natal south unknown adult, possibly Lirus japonieux Stndnr. L.l. about 100. 14-15 gill-rakers. Silvery grey, darker coast, Ij-IJ ins. long, probably only juveniles of some BONY FISHES- Family STROMATEIDAE 305 Genus Centrolophus Lacepede, genotype Perea nigra Gmelin. Rather elongate body with minute scales. A single dorsal fin, spines feeble. Pelvics present. Preopercle feebly serrate. 5 species from deepish water, spread over most seas, 1 in our area. 850. CENTROLOPHUS NIGER (Gmelin). [Perea nigra Gmel. Pompilus niger or rondelelii Lowe. Cen- Irolophodes irvini G. & von B.] Black Ruff. Literature L 4, 48, 403, 435, 655. Fig. 850. CENTROLOPHUS NIGER (Gmel.). Actual length 36 ins. Depth about 3,?. I) X 28 32, spines feeble. A 111 20 22, spines feeble. About 180 series of scales. 13-14 gill-rakers. Scales easily shed, each with a pore below. Pores over whole head. Dusky brown to black. Attains 4 ft. Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic. Taken from Walfish Bay to the Cape in 80 250 fathoms, not common in our area. Genus Papyrichthys Smith, genotype the single species. Highly compressed soft body with minute scales, easily shed. 2 dorsal fins, spines feeble. Pelvics inserted below pectoral base. 851. PAPYRICHTHYS PELLUCIDUS (Lutken). [Psenes pellueidus.] Literature L 63, 394, 619, 655. Fig. 851. PAPYRICHTHYS PELLUCIDUS (Lut.) Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 2^. D XII 34. A I 111 34. All spines feeble. About 125 series of scales. 13 gill-rakers. Body fragile, almost transparent. Attains 5 ins. An Atlantic deep-water species, down to 500 fathoms, once found off Natal, Genus Psenes Valenciennes, genotype Psenes cyanophrys Val, Compressed ovate body with moderate scales. 2 dorsal fins. Pelvics originate below pectoral base. No teeth on vomer or tongue. A few species of the warm open seas, 4 in our area. A. 13-15 anal rays B. 17-19 anal rays C. 21-27 anal rays. 1. L.l. 55 . 2. L.l. 43-44 indieus (85Z) whitelegii (853) cyanophrys (854) rotundas (854a) 306 BONY FISHES— Family STROM ATEIDAE 852. PSENES INDICES (Day). [Cuhiceps indicus.] Literature L 4, 14, 19. 48. 298, 328, 435. Fig. 852. PSENES INDICUS (Oay). Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 2j. D X • I 14 16. A III 13-15. L.l. 40-45. Tr. 4 14 16. 14 gill-rakers. Greyish. Attains 9 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, in our area from Knysna to Beira, shore to 60 lathoms, tiot rare, but uncommon. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and F'amily and read there also. 853. PSENES WHITELEGII Waite. [Pse?ies i>iitta!us Fwir. or slii’inapleuron Fvvir.) Literature L 19, 67, 435, 695. Fig. 853. PSENES H HITELECII Waite. Actual length 2 ins. Depth about 2i. D X-XI + 1 20. A HI 17-19. L.l. about 60. Tr. 6 18. 16-19 gill-rakers. Dusky. 3 4 cross-bars. Attains 5 ins. Australian waters. Has been found from Port Alfred to Beira in rock pools. 854. PSENES CYANOPHRYS Valenciennes. [Psenes javanicus Val. or chapmani Fwlr.l Literature L 4, 157, 328, 527, 580, 619, 655. Depth about 2. D X - 1 22-27. A 111 23-27. L.l. about 55. Tr. 6 25. 19-20 gill-rakers. Dusky brow-nish lines along scale rows, young with faint cross-bars. Attains 5 ins. Open water of all warm seas, has been found in Natal. PI ATF 61 787. Heimgymmis fasciatus, juvenile at 4 ins. 815. Cheili/nis bhmmilalus, 4 ins. 818. Thalliurus chlorurus, 8 ins. 819. Hseuciocheilinus hexataenici. 4 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family STROMATEIDAE 307 854a. PSENES ROTUNDUS Smith. Literature L 91a. Kig. 854a. PSENES ROTUNDUS Smith. Actual length 9 ins. Depth 2^ Interorbital 1.1 times eye. D X ■ 1 22-23. A 111 22. L.l. 43-44. Tr. 7/22. 18 spiny gill-rakers. Yellowish above, purplish brown below. Only 1 specimen, 9 ins. long, from 200 fathoms off Dassen Island. Genus Nomeus Cuvier, genotype the single species. Fairly elongate body with moderate scales easily shed. 2 dorsal fins. Pelvics large, originate before or below pectoral base. Teeth on palate. 855. NOMEUS AI.BUEA (Meuschen). \Nomeus gronovii Gm. or maculalus Benn.] Bluebottle Fish. Literature L 14, 19, 48, 201, 394, 655. Plate 63, p. 31 1, adult. Depth about 3.1. D X-XI 1 24-26. A 111 24-27. L.l. about 65. Tr. 5 20. 16 18 gill- rakers. Attains 6 ins. In the open water of all warm seas, in our area from the Cape to Delagoa Bay, not uncommonly thrown ashore. A curious fish, associates with jelly-fishes, spending much time under these creatures, actually among the stinging tentacles, apparently unharmed. Fig. 855. NOMEUS ALBULA (Meus.). Actual length 2 ins. CJenus Cubiceps Lowe, genotype Serio/a gracilis Lowe. Rather elongate body with small scales, 2 dorsal fins. Pelvics inserted well behind pectoral base. Teeth on vomer and tongue, none on palatines. Few species of warm seas, 3 in our area. /oi:/;, A. Pectoral longer than head . graci is { B. Pectoral not longer than head. , P, vm I 15 . brevimanus : 7 . mlalenmaH) 8^6 C’UBICEPS CR.ACILIS (Lowe). [Aiimosloma or Cubiceps capensis Smith.] Literature L 48, 58, 435, 509, 619. Fig. 856. CUBICEPS GRACILIS (Lowe). After Smith. 308 BONY FISHES— Family BRAMIDAE Depth about 4. Interorbital equals eye. D XI |1 20-24. A II 111 19-21. L.l. about 65, Tr. 5/20. 15 16 gill-rakers. Attains 42 ins. An eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean species, only once thrown ashore at the Cape about 1849. 857. CUBICEPS BREVIMANUS Klun- zinger. [Cuhiccps Icmgimanus Fwir.] Literature L 19, 297. Depth sbout 4-4J. D VIII • 1 15. A 1-11 14. L.l. about 35. Tr. 2 12. 19 gill-rakers. Dusky brown above, lighter below'. Known from Natal to the Red Sea. Probably the juvenile of some known species. Fig. 857. CUHICEPS BREVIMANUS Klunz. After Fowler. 858. CUBICEPS NATALENSIS Gilchrist & von Bonde. Literature L 4, 48. Depth about 3. D XI 1 20. A 111 20. L.L about 50. Tr. 5/17. 13-14 gill-rakers. Yellowish, darker above. Pectoral slaty. Anal yellow. Dorsal dark. Attains 7 ins. Known only from Natal, one small specimen near the shore with a jelly-fish, others in 150-275 fathoms. Rare. on B. Fig. 8,S8. CUBICEPS NATALENSIS G. & v For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family BRAMIDAE Rather deep compressed body, with moderate but stout scales, covering most of fins also. Oblique mouth, with fine teeth in jaws, sometimes on palate, but lost with age. Lateral line obscure. Curious rather rare fishes of the open seas, often found in deep water. Grow th changes occur, the young having spines on the scales and on the head which vanish with age. 2 genera in our area. .A. Dorsal not half as high as body epth . Bra/jw (859) B. Dorsal at least as high as body depth . ... Tdiacles (H60) Genus Brama Bloch, genotype Brama rail Bl. Rather small scales. Teeth on palate, lost with age. Lateral line obsolete in adult. Dorsal and anal elevated anteriorly, low posteriorly. One species. 859. BRAMA RAII (Bloch). Bulleye. Angelfish (West coast trawlers). Literature L 4, 127, 387, 562. Depth about 2. Dill 30-35. A 11 26-29. 10-12 gill-rakers. About 90 series of scales. More or less uniform dusky to brown. Attains 30 ins. In all but the coldest seas down to 500 fathoms, found from Walfish Bay to Algoa Bay, down to 200 fathoms, not often found here, almost always by trawl. Flesh excellent, tasty. Fjg. 859. BRAMA RAH (Bl.). Actual length 20 in.s. PLATE 62 770, C/ieilio inermis, 9-12 ins., 3 colour varieties. 824. Callyodon giiltalus, 8 ins. 10 ins. 826. Lepmscarus vaigiensis. 9 ins. 827. Cryptotomus spinidens, 7 ins. 825. Leploscariis coendeopiinclatiis. Actual length stated in each case. iiji ' V-' ,5, cvs^rf' -5*.. V. .:- 1*^:-: ' ’’U" , . '! rTfc "’ • ■ '’jjv,'" "'*'■' ^ _ T.f.lhiSth fift .1-?^' 'J^Stb*'!* _ * ‘ >__ I _ __"!)• “'/SilSdLt* • ^ ■i'll . BONY FISHES -Family GEMPYUDAE 309 Genus Taractes Lowe, genotype Taractes asper Lowe. Fairly large scales, spiny in young. Lateral line obsolete. Dorsal and anal high in front, falcate. A groove across base of caudal above and below. Probably only I species. 860. I'ARACTES LONGIPINNIS (Lowe). [Taractes asper Lowe, or princeps Johns.] Literature L 4, 184, 258, 655. Depth about IJ. D 111 30 32. A 11 111 25-26, front rays of dorsal and anal falcate, at least half as long as body depth. About 45 series of scales, in the young with recurved spines, those at base of tail with spines pointing forwards, spines vanish with age. Grey, with coppery iridescence. Attains 36 ins. Eastern warm Atlantic, has been found at the Cape. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family GEIMPYLIDAE SNOEK: SNAKE MACKERELS Elongate compressed body with minute scales. Large mouth, with often powerful teeth. Soft dorsal shorter than spinous. Sometimes detached finlets behind dorsal and anal. Lateral line feeble, single or double, no keel at end. A few mostly powerful voracious fishes, many of deep water, ranging over great areas of the oceans. Flesh oily, and usually wholesome and tasty, one species of significance as food in our country. 6 genera in our area. A. Lateral line absent or single. 1. 2 dorsal finlets ... Ruvettus (861) 2. 4 6 dorsal finlets. («) 9 12 spines in 1st dorsal . .. Lepidocyhium {H62) (h) 18 20 spines in 1st dorsal Thyrsi tes (H63) (c) 30 32 spines in 1st dorsal Gempylus (S64) B. 2 lateral lines. 1. No dorsal finlets ... ... . Epinnula (ii65) 2. 5 6 dorsal finlets . ... ... Thyrsitoides {^66) Genus Ruvettus Cocco, genotype Ruvetius pretiosus Cocco. Lateral line almost obsolete. Teeth strong, canines in front. Body elongates with age. 2 detached finlets behind dorsal and anal. Minute scales and plates and tubercles in skin, also many pores all over body. 861. RUVETTUS PRETIOSUS C occo. [Ruvetius delagoensis G. & von B.] Escolar. Oiltish. Litera¬ ture L 4, 49, 394, 655. Fig. 861. RUVETTUS PRETIOSUS Cocc. After Goode. Depth 6 in adult, 4 in juveniles. D XIll XV-1-16-18 t 2. A 16-18+2. 8 small double spines as gill-rakers. Colour variably yellow, pinkish or brown. Attains at least 6 ft. Warm waters of the Atlantic, also in the Mediter¬ ranean, has been taken off the Cape and Delagoa Bay in 200-275 fathoms. The flesh is oily, and when fresh quite good, but the oil when separated and kept is stated to be an intestinal irritant. 310 BONY FISHES— Family GEMPYLIDAE Genus Lepidocybium Gill, genotype the single species. Lateral line faint, highly undulate, ends in a keel at caudal base. Scales minute, irregular, with smaller porous scales between. A single series of curved incisors. 4 6 dorsal finlets. 862. LEPIDOCYBIUM FLAVOBRUNNEUM (Smith). {Cyhium or Scomheromorus flavobrunmnm. Xenogramma carimtum Waite. Diplogominis maderensis Noron. Lepidosarda retigramma Kish.] Literature L 58, 88, 450, 655, 714. Fig. 862. LEPIDOCYBIUM ILA \ OBRUNNEUM (Smith). After Smith. Depth about 4i. D IX XII t 16-17 • 4-5. All 13 • 4. Attains at least 100 lbs. weight. Very oily. Becomes almost black with age. A rare and rather mysterious lish. First found at the Cape, only a few have ever been seen, one at the Cape (before 1849), Cuba 1875, Australia 1904, Aru Islands 191 1, Madeira and Japan 1926, California 1928. Previously thought to be related to Scomheromorus Lac., No. 840 842. Any specimen should be preserved. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Thyrsites Cuvier, genotype the single species. Elongate compressed body with small scales. Lateral line single, undulate. 18-20 dorsal spines. 5-6 detached finlets. In most seas. 863. THYRSNES .4TUN (Euphrasen). Snock (Cape). Barracouta (Australia). Literature L 4, 34, 121, 574, 655. Fig. 863. THYRSITES ATUK (Euph ). Actual length 30 ins. Depth about 8. D XVlll-XX - 10-12- 5-6. A 111 8 10 5-6. Large canines in jaws. Steely black above. .Attains 40 ins. Occurs in the colder water of most oceans of the Southern Hemisphere, moving almost regularly in vast shoals. If the Snoek fail to arrive on schedule there is great consternation on our West Coast. Justly feared by all who deal with them, as they are vicious brutes able to inflict terrible wounds with the great fangs, the bite said to prevent coagulation of the blood. Flesh delicate, of the first rank, eaten fresh, or preserved in many ways. Those desiring more popular information should consult C. L. Biden's book on Cape Angling Fishes. Genus Gempylus Cuvier, genotype the single species. Elongate ribbon-like body, with hardly any scales. Lateral line single. Teeth powerful. Dorsal of 30—32 spines with 6 detached finlets. PLATE 63 805. FissUabrus dimidiatus, 4 ins. 845. Stromateus fiatola, 10 ins. hippurus, above, left, ins,, right, 5 ins,, below, 4 ft. 855. Nomeus alhiila. 31 ins. 872. Corypluu'mi Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family GEMPYL/DAE 311 864. GEMPYLUS SERPENS Cuvier. Snake .Mackerel. Literature L 4, 35, 305, 655. Fig. 864. GPMI’YLUS SF.RI’KNS Cuv. Actual length 20 ins. Depth about 15. D XXX XXXll 12-13 16. A III 12 • 6. Attains 40 ins. A vicious creature of cold waters of the Southern Hemisphere, has been found at East London. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Epinnula Poey, genotype Epinnula maf’istralis Poey. Fairly elongate body with a 2nd lateral line low down. Scales minute. 16 dorsal spines, no detached fmlets. Small fishes of the southern Atlantic, 1 in our area, little known about them. H65. EPINNULA ORIEN FALIS Gilchrist & von Bonde. Literature L 49. Fig. 86.S. EPISSULA O RIESTALIS Ci. & von B. Actual length 8 ins. Depth about 4. D XVI I 19 20. A III 19 20. Upper lateral line about 85, lower 30 from shoulder to chest, about 1 15 from chest to caudal. 1 long gill-raker in angle of arch followed by 6 fine rakers, alternately double and single points. Attains 9 ins. Known only from I 50 3(X) fathoms off Natal and Delagoa Bay. Genus Thyrsitoides Fowler, genotype the single species. 2 lateral lines, lower branching from upper. Detached finlets behind dorsal and anal. One species. 866. I HVRSnOIDES M.ARLEYI Fowler. Literature L 16. 72. Fig. 866. THYRSITOIDES MARLEYI Fwlr. Actual length 20 ins. Depth about 9. D XVlIl 12+5-6. A 13-4-6. 4-5 fine gill-rakers. Lateral lines upper about 190, lower about 310. Attains 24 ins. So far found only in South Africa, known only from 2 specimens, one from Durban, the other off East London, more wanted. 312 BONY FISHES—Family LEPIDOPIDAE Family LEPIDOPIDAE Elongate compressed band-like body without scales, silvery. Dorsal and anal fins feeble but long. Small caudal present. Pelvics minute or absent. Mouth large, with powerful teeth. Curious fierce fishes of deepish water of most colder seas. 2 genera in our area. A. Depth about 15 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Lepidopus C^bl) B. Depth about 30 . ... ... ... ... . Benthodesnius Genus Lepidopus Gouan, genotype the single species. Pelvics almost obsolete, behind pectoral. Pectoral normal. 867. LEPIDOPUS CAUDATUS (Euphrasen). Synonymy involved. Kibbonfi.sh. Kalkvis. Frost-Fish Australia — N.Z.). Literature L 4, 121, 655. Fig. 867. LEPIDOPUS CAUDATUS (Euph.). Actual length 50 ins. D about 100. A about 25. Bright silvery. Attains 6 ft. In most cooler oceans down to 200 fathoms, has been found over most of our region, from the shore to 200 fathoms, often in trawl nets. Sometimes taken on lines, fights gamely. The flesh is of the first rank. In New Zealand this fish is thrown ashore in numbers when cold weather blows up from the Antarctic, hence the name. Not uncommonly thrown up on our coast when cold water appears, and when taken on lines from or near the shore usually indicates that the cold water is approaching (see p. 8). Genus Benthodesmus Goode & Bean, genotype the single species. Pelvics almost obsolete, below pectoral base. Pectoral rather slender. 868. BENTHODESMUS TENUIS Gnthr. [Benthodesmus atlanticus G. & B ] Literature L 49 339 367, 394. ’ " ’ 868 y - — Fig. 868. BENTHODESMUS TENUIS Gnthr. After Goode & Bean. D about 150. A about 100. Bright silvery. Attains 4 ft. In deep water of most colder seas, 25-250 fathoms once found off Natal. i^LA I h 64 832. Sanh chifensis, \r)S. 840. Scomhcronwrus commersotu above, adi leopardus, 25 ms. 843. Acatuhocyhimn solandri, about 5 ft. , 5 It., below at 20 ins. 841. Scoinhcro})H)rus Actual length slated in each case. PLATE 65 SlH Auxis l/wzariL \4 im. 829. Emin nmix pelamis, 20 ins. 8.^0. Emhy/wiis aHeleriitu.s. IS ins. 834. Neolhwimis ilosihi, 5i ft. Actual length stated in each case. *■ '!■'*• ' r.i^-^^ ^f" . ■ .'.’ ■Mt/m _ 'A a.ii^' ■*<■'•>. ' BONY FISHES Families TRICHIURIDAE and PTERACLIDAE 313 Family TRICHIURIDAE RIBBONFISHES Elongate highly compressed band-like body without scales, silvery. Dorsal and anal fins feeble but long. Pelvics minute or absent. Body tapers behind to a point, no caudal. Warm shallow seas, entering estuaries. One genus Trichiurus Linnaeus, genotype the single species. 869. TRICHIURUS LEPTURUS Linn. [Trichiurus haume/a Forsk.] Snakefish. Ribbonfish. Bandfish. Literature L 4, 39, 105, 407, 655. Kig. 869. I RICHIURUS LERTURUS Linn. Actual length 14 ins. D about 130. Anal spinelets not countable. Bright silvery. Attains 5 ft. In almost all but the colder seas, mostly in shallow water, often in estuaries. Sometimes taken on lines, fights fiercely. Flesh scanty but tasty. Known all round our region down to 40 fathoms, often cast ashore. Family PTERACLIDAE FAN FISHES Compressed tapering body, with thin scales, each with a slight ridge, many with a hooked spine fitting into a notch in the one before. No lateral line. Moderate oblique mouth with fine teeth. Abdomen small, far for¬ ward, vent at throat. Large to enormous spreading dorsal and anal fins, each with basal sheath of enlarged scales. Fishes of open water of most oceans, seldom seen, then mostly mutilated. 2 genera. A. Dorsal starts on snout ... ... ... .. ••• ••• ■■■ Pteraclis (S70) B. Dorsal starts behind snout . Centropholoides (Sl\) Genus Pteraclis Gronow, genotype Coryphaena velifera Pallas. Dorsal originates on snout, a few front rays free. Dorsal and anal enormous, fan-like. No teeth on palate. 1 species. 870. PTERACLIS VELIFER.V (Pallas). [Pteraclis papilio Lowe, or ocellatus Cuv. Bentenia aesticola J. & S.] F'anfish. Literature L 4, 157, 565. Plate 67. p. 317. D 40-50. A 40-50, both variable, difficult to count. Attains 24 ins. Several species described, almost certainly only one, apparently in most seas but seldom seen. Only 3 specimens in our area, 1 on the west coast, 1 off Mozambique, and 1 off East London illustrated here, one of the least damaged ever found, washed ashore after heavy bombing at sea, 1943. Genus Centropholoides now, genotype the single species. Dorsal originates above opercle, no free rays in front. Dorsal and anal with short graduated rays in front, both fins anteriorly falcate. 871. CENTROPHOLOIDES FALC.ATUS (Barnard). [Pterycomhus falcatus.] Literature L 4. Depth about 2-L D 49, spiniform. A 41, similar. About 48 series of scales. Tr. 20. Most scales with backwardly hooked spine. 4 rows of spiny scales on peduncle. 7 gill-rakers. Live colour unknown, probably silvery. Only 1 specimen, 12 ins. long, from the Cape, more wanted. 314 BONY FISHES- Families CORYPHAENIDAE, XIPHIIDAE and ISTIOPHO Rl DA E Family CORYPHAENIDAE DOLPHINS Elongate compressed body with small scales. Mouth large, oblique, with tine teeth in bands in jaws and on palate. Dorsal long, originates on head. Forehead prominent in large males. Caudal deeply forked. Only one genus Coryphacna Linnaeus, genotype Corrphacna hippurus Linn., with 2 species, large and beautifully coloured, which range over all warm seas, 1 in our area. 872. CORYPH.AENA HIPPURUS Linnaeus. Dolphin. Dotirado Macho (Portuguese). Literature L 4, 105, 157, 328, 394, 613, 655. Plate 63, p. 3 1 1 , juveniles and adult. Body changes with age. D 55-67. A 25-.30. Colour gorgeous, impossible to reproduce adequately. .An unmistakable fish, attains at least 5 ft. One of the famous game fishes of the world, found in most warmish seas, taken mostly by trolling. Occurs in our area from the Cape to Delagoa Bay, but rarely seen. It feeds largely on flying fishes, being apparently able to swim almost as fast as they "fly". Flesh e.xcellent. Family XIPHIIDAE SWORDFISH: BROADBILL-SW ORDFISH Elongate robust body, rough in young, but smooth and scaleless in adult. 2 dorsal fins in adult, the hinder small and far back. 2 anal fins in adult. A keel on peduncle. Upper jaw strongly produced into a powerful flat sword . Teeth feeble in adult. Pelvics absent. The laminae of each gill-arch unifed to form a single unit. Only one genus, Xiphias Linnaeus, with one species. The liver oil of this fish is exceedingly rich in Vitamin A. 873. XIPHL4S GLADIUS Linnaeus. Swordfish. Broadhill. Literature L 4. 105. I 54, 338, 601 , 655. Plate 67, p. 317. Depth about 6 in total length. "Sword” from front of eye about ^ total length. D about 40 ■ 4. A about 18 -4. Grey or bronzy to purplish above, lighter below. Attains at least 15 ft. and a weight of well over 1,(XX) lbs. In all w'arm seas in open water, rarely inshore. In the young the dorsal and anal are continuous, and the lower jaw is quite elongate. Much has been written about this famous, powerful and pugnacious fish. Mostly solitary, it feeds on smaller surface fishes which it kills by hitting with the ".sword". It is feared by small boatmen of open water, as it sometimes attacks for no reason at all, possibly solitary individuals rather like "rogue” ele¬ phants. Charges with such speed that a "sword" has been driven right through a 4 ins. oak beam in a ship and broken off. It is a formidable antagonist for big game anglers, who eagerly pursue this great fish. As the flesh is excellent and of high food value it is sought also by commercial fishermen, the Japanese being the most suc¬ cessful. Rarely seen in our area, probably alw'ays far out. Spawning habits unknown. Family ISTIOPHORIDAE SAILFISH: SPEARFISH: MARLIN Elongate robust body, with fine lancet-like scales in the skin. Dorsal high and continuous, or lower and almost continuous with a separate hind portion. 2 anal fins. Pelvics each of I. or of 2-3 rays. 2 keels each side of peduncle. Upper jaw' produced into a rounded " Spear ", never as long as the bill of the Swordfish. Teeth feeble. The vertebrae of these fishes are of peculiar design, expanded above and below. Also they are locked in position by projections so that they cannot be dislocated (see Fig. N). These surface fishes of open water of all warm seas are eagerly sought by big game anglers. Some species are magnificent fighters and difficult to capture. 3 genera, all in our area, though hardly known mainly because our turbu¬ lent seas do not favour open water angling. Liver oils of these fishes probably the riche.st of all in Vitamin .A. 'Vertebra of Marlin. Actual length 13 ins. Fish probably 15 ft. long. PLATE 66 . • I / < ft /nhr»t Fig. O. "Springer" (No. 882). in mid-air. Photograph. K. W. Newdigatc. Springer is always a " Mullet ", the reverse is not necessarily true. "Springers appear to be rnainly estuarine. In the sea itself they do not appear to jump as readily as in still water. In short a “ Springer is a " Mullet " which leaps from the water. These fishes have no lateral line, scales are counted from the hind margin of the head to the tail Most species are silvery grey without definite markings. All have fairly elongate body with 2 dorsal fins, the fst of 4 spines. The small mouth has at most minute teeth. The eyes have better vision below than above. Sometimes adipose eyelids are present, but are not easily visible in live fishes, being transparent. The stomach is spindle- shaped and muscular, like the "gizzard" of a bird. Identification of genera and species requires the use of a lens and rather close study, but is within the reach of any intelligent layman. About 16 genera recognised. 9 in our Hres. V I- ^''- ’'•^r#: . 'ip* V. ■ '■■ '*• ■>•■*5 ->. - .. ' - ■ 5- ■. ‘r/ - ■ ;-» -i jtV'f'"i>.,!«^ r' *'^*-'«**f “■'jJ*'' * * #€ ' ■* ■S' '5 f-i • .-, ., .ftV-;- ,;'■ ■•■r-.’^f ,V-" • •-''- " * 'V** *v^v ’*‘'^ • '. -T'^'- ' , i - ■; . i ; i 1 1 0/ ll'ft lal'fT above, small juvenil t. 874, /siiophorus gladius, 6 ft. 875. Makaira herscheli, \4 fl. 902. Siganns riviilalus, inf stated in each case. below, adult at Actual length BONY FISHES— Family MUGIUDAE 317 A. Adipose eyelids reach more than halfway to pupil ... . B. Adipose eyelids feeble or absent. Mugil (877-879) 1. Prominent papillae on deep upper lip 2. No prominent papillae on upper lip. Crenimugil (880) (a) Pelvics in adult longer than head without snout (h) Pelvics always shorter than head without snout. Pleromugil (881) (i) Outer teeth tricuspid (ii) Outer teeth not tricuspid, or absent. (a) Maxilla curved sharply down over end of premaxilla. Meteromugil (882) (x) Caudal almost truncate . (y) Caudal emarginate or forked. Ellochelon (883) * Dorsal scales with many grooves ... Strializa (884) ** Dorsal scales normal . (^) Maxilla barely curved down over end of premaxilla. Liza (885-887) (x) Anal about opposite 2nd dorsal ... . Valamugil (888-889) (>’) Anal starts before 2nd dorsal ... Trachy.stoma (890) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Mugil Linnaeus, genotype Mugil cephalu.s Linn. Adipose eyelids strongly developed, covering most of eye. Lower lip with thin edge. Fine teeth in lips of both jaws. Caudal forked. A number of species from all but the coldest seas, 3 in our area. A. 7-8 anal rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... cephalu.s (877) B. 9 anal rays. 1. Pectoral folded forward barely reaches eye ... ... ... ... ... rohustu.s (878) 2. FA'ctoral folded forward reaches beyond eye . ... .strongylocephalu.s (879) 877. CFPMAI.US Linn. [Muyil constantiae Gnthr., or cephalotus Gnthr., or oeur Forsk. Myxu.s harnardi Glch.] Ilaarder. Springer. .Mullet. Flathead Mullet. lainha (Portuguese). Tulo (Native). Literature L 58. 65. 89. 162. 545. 579, 655. Fig. 877. ML'CIL CEPfLALliS Linn. .Actual length 14 ins. D IV • 1 6-8. A III 8. 39-42 scales. Tr. 14-15. Adipose eyelids strong. Head rather broad and flat. Pectorals folded forwards scarcely reach eye. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 5-6i in predorsal distance. Attains 25 ins. Occurs in all tropical and temperate waters of the Indian, S. Atlantic and S. Pacific oceans. Common in estuaries, even far from the sea, extending into almost fresh water. Has great leaping powers, may often be seen jumping repeatedly in estuaries, mostly towards evening. 28 318 BONY FISHES- -Family MUGILIDAE 878. 1V1UGIL ROBUSTUS Gunther. Mullet. Literature L 47, 65, 89, 248, 545. Fig. 878. .\tUGIL ROBUSTUS Gmhr. Actual length 10 ins D IV ; 1 8. A III 9. 37-39 scales. Tr. 12-13. Adipose eyelids well developed. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 4-4J in predorsal distance. Head fairly broad. Pectorals noticeably short. Attains 12 ins. One of the rarest species, known only from Durban to Inhambane in estuaries and seldom found. Possibly e.\tends also to India. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 879. .MUGIL STRONGYLOCEPH.LLGS Richardson. Mullet. Literature L 14, 65, 89, 328, 579. Fig. 879. MUGfL STRONG YLOCEPH ALUS Rich Actual length 9 ins. t t, A Tr. 11-12. Adipose eyelids strong. Head moderately broad Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 4-4j m predorsal distance. Pectorals folded forwards reach beyond eye Attains sl?h‘as Dur^r"" ^ '^here ,t is abundant and widespread, found occasionally in lagoons as far Genus Crenimugil Schultz, genotype MugU crenilahis Forsk. No adipose eyelids. Thick lips, with papillae both externally and internally. Maxilla almost to quite concealed. The type species in our area. BONY FISHES -Family MUGIUDAE 319 880. CRENIIVHJOIL CRENILABIS (Forskal). Mullet. (Mu^U crenilahis.) Literature L 65 72 89 328 579, 580. ' . - , , Kig. 880. C KENIMUGIL C RENILABIS (Forsk.). Actual length 8 ins. O IV+I 8. A III 9. 37-40 scales. Tr. 13-14. No adipose eyelids. Upper lip thick, with 5-6 series of small lleshy knobs. Pectorals folded forward reach beyond eye. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal about 8 in predorsal distance. Largest 10 ins. Nowhere plentiful, comes from the Indo-Pacific. Never found much south of Durban and seldom there. f-'or full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus I’teroniugil Smith, genotype MugH diadema G. & T. Rudimentary adipose eyelids. Lips thin without papillae. Maxilla end exposed. Front margin of preorbital wholly serrate. 1 endemic species. 881. PFEROMUGIL DIADEM.A (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Mugil diadema.] Basket or Diamond .Mullet (Natal). Literature L 44, 47, 65, 89. Fig. 881. PTEROMLGIL DI.WEMA (G. & T.). Actual length 18 ins. □ iv+I 8. A III 9. 29-32 scales. Tr. 11. Teeth feeble. .Adipose eyelids feeble. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 6-6^ in predorsal distance. Pectorals folded forwards reach front of eye or beyond. Pelvics about as long as pectorals in adult, shorter in juveniles. 2nd dorsal and anal high in front, falcate. Margin of scales dark, giving the body a reticulate appearance, whence the name “Basket" Mullet. Attains 30 ins. Found only on our east coast, is occasionally seen at Port Elizabeth, and is not uncommon on the Natal and Zululand coasts. A splendid fish, obviously a great leaper and fine fighter if hooked. 320 BONY FISHES— Family MVGILIDAE Genus Heteromugil Schultz, genotype Mugil tricuspidens Smith. Rudimentary adipose eyelids. Lips thin without papillae. Maxilla end exposed. Distinct tricuspid teeth. 1 endemic species. 882. HETEROMUGIL TRICUSPIDENS (Smith). {MugU tricuspidens.] Haarder. Streep- Haarder (Knysna). Springer (General). Previously wrongly identified as Mugii sa/iens Ri.sso. Literature L 65, 89. Fig. 882. HETEROMUGIL TRICUSPI DE,\S (Smith). Actual length 18 ins. D IV I 8. A 111 9. 43 52 scales. Tr. 14 15. Teeth distinct, with 3 points. Scaly process at base of' 1st dorsal about 5i in predor.sal distance. Adipose eyelids feeble. Pectorals folded forwards reach beyond eye. 7-8 distinct dusky streaks along the body, corresponding with the scale rows. Attains 30 ins., weight 9 lbs. Found only in South Africa, mainly in estuaries from Mossel Bay to Durban. Never abundant, it .sometimes congregates over mud-banks. A magnificent fish with great leaping pow'ers, large fishes able to ri.se a clear 8 ft and cover 40 ft. m one leap, which may be repeated several times (see Fig. O, p. 316). Almost always leaps clear when encircled by drag-net. Occasionally hooked on prawn, and fights magnificently. Genus Ellochelon Whitley, genotype Mugil vuigien.sis Q. & G. Head broad and fiat. No adipose eyelids- Maxilla with end exposed, curves down sharply over premaxilla. Tail large, almost square cut. Pectorals and much of most fins black. Scales large. Only one species in South Africa, but at least one more in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. 88,3. ELLOCHELON VAIGIENSIS ( Quov & Gaimard) ture L 65, 89, 328, 545, 579. [Mugil uaigiensis, or vaigiensis.] Mullet. Litera- F.g, 883. ELLOCHELON VAIGIENSIS IQ. & G.). Actual length 12 ins. BONY FISHES - Family MUGILIDAE 321 D IV 1 I 8. A 111 8. 26 28 scales. Tr. 9-10. Head very broad and flat. No adipose eyelids. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 6-8 in predorsal distance. Easily distinguished from all other species in South Africa by the square cut tail and dark markings. Pectorals black, other fins dusky. Dusky streaks along the scale rows. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, unknown further south. Genus Strializa Smith, genotype Mugil canaliculalus Smith. No adipose eyelids. Lips thin, without papillae. Maxilla with end exposed, curves down sharply over end of premaxilla. Caudal emarginate. Dorsal scales each with many grooves. I endemic species, also 1 from West Africa. 884. STRIALIZA CANAI.ICULATUS (Smith). [Mugil canaliculatus.] Haarder. Mullet. Nyolo (Native). Literature L 65, 89. Plate 68, p. 328. Pig. 884. STRIALIZA CANALICULATUS (Smith). Actual length 11 ins. D IV + l 8. A 111 9. Scales on back with many wavy grooves. 36 39 scales. Tr. 13-14. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 41-5 in predorsal distance. Teeth feeble. No adipose eyelids. Pectorals folded forwards reach beyond eye. Attains 15 ins. Found only in South Africa from Mossel Bay to Delagoa Bay, enters tidal rivers. Most abundant from Knysna to East London. Does not leap easily. Genus Liza Jordan & Swain, genotype Mugil capita Cuv. No adipose eyelids. Lips thin without papillae. Caudal forked. Maxilla with end exposed, curves down sharply over end of premaxilla. A number of species in tropical and temperate seas, but not on American shores. 3 in our area. A. 26 28 series of scales (885) 33-35 series of scales macrolepis mt) 50 series of scales ramada (Ul) B. C. 44 885. LIZA OLIGOLEPIS ( Bleeker). [Mugil oligolepis.] Mullet. Literature L 14, 65, 89, 328, 579. Fig. 885. LIZA OLIGOLEPIS (Blkr.). Actual length 9 ins. 322 BONY FISHES -Family MUdLIDAE D IV : I 8. A 111 9. 26-28 scales. Tr. 10. Adipose eyelids rudimentary. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 4J in predorsal distance. Dorsal spines strong. Pectorals folded forwards reach beyond eye. Largest 12 ins. A rare migrant from tropical Indo-Malayan waters, only 2 ever recorded from South Africa, from Isipingo and from Delagoa Bay. More wanted. 886. LIZ.4 M.4CROLEPIS (Smith). [Miigil smithii Gnthr., or horncensis BIkr., or troschcli BIkr.] Mullet (Natal). Tainha (Portuguese). Literature L 58, 65, 89, 545, 579. Fig. 886. LIZA MACROLEPIS (Smith). ,4ctua! length 10 ins. D IV I I 8. A III 9. 33-35 seales. Tr. 12. Teeth feeble. No adipose eyelids. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 5-6 in predorsal distance. Pelvics shorter than pectorals. Pectorals folded forwards do not reach tront of eye. Attains 14 ins. Abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific. Only once found at Port Alfred, rare at East London, but at Durban and in Portuguese East Africa is the mo.st abundant Mullet, often feeds in vast shoals on shallow banks. Makes a faint "cheeping" noise out of water. Extends up the cast coast of Africa. 887. LIZA R.4MAD.4(Risso). [Mugil capito Cu\ or rameuta.] The common "HAARDER" of the .Southern Cape. Literature L 65, 89, 545, 655. Fig. 887. LIZA RAMADA (Risso). Actual length 10 ins. D IV- 1 8-9 A III 9. 44-50 scales. Tr. 15 16. Teeth feeble. No adipose eyelids. .Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal ^5 m predorsal distance. Pectorals folded forwards do not reach beyond eye. 2nd dorsal scaly only on front half. .Attains 16 ins. Occurs in abundance on the south-west coast, about the Cape and to b yond Agulhas, where many millions are landed annually. Experienced watchers posted on elevated e^atal of movements of shoals, which are enclosed by drag-nets and pulled ashore. Sometimes the ma.ss of fishes IS so great that the net has to be held fast until the tide falls. On the west coast floating gill-nets are "h, " "'Ogressive,, ,e. a.u„da„,. f, a.a.ed BONY FISHES — Family M UGILI DAE 323 Genus Valamugil Smith, genotype Mu^H seheli Forskal. Adipose eyelids feeble. Lips thin without papillae. Caudal forked. Maxilla end completely hidden, barely curved down over premaxilla. Anal about opposite 2nd dorsal. Tropical seas, not about America. 2 species in our area. A. Dorsal and anal falcate . huchanani (888) B. Dorsal and anal not falcate ... . .ve/;e// (889) 888. V ALAMUfilL BUCMANANI (Bleeker). [Mugil ccyhnensis Gnthr. or huchanani.] Blue-tail Mullet (Eastern Cape and Natal). Tainha. Literature L 65, 89, 328, 545, 613. Plate 68, p. 328. D IV-FI 8. A 111 9. 33 36 .scales. Tr. 13. Head markedly broad and blunt. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 5 6^ in prcdorsal distance. Teeth absent. No adipose eyelids. Pectorals folded forwards reach beyond eye. 2nd dorsal and anal high in front, falcate, longer than pelvics. Often a few faint stripes. Attains 20 ins. Warm areas ol the Indo-Pacific, where it is abundant and widespread, occasional specimens penetrate as far south as Knysna. Quite well known at East London, and fairly abundant northwards. 889. VALA.MUOIL SEIIELI (Forskal). [MugH seheli.] Mullet. Literature L 65, 89, 328, 545, 579. Fig. 889. VALAUUGIL SEHELI (Forsk.). Actual length 8 ins. D IV - 1 8. A III 9. 39 41 scales. Tr. 14. No teeth. No adipose eyelids. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 4] -5 in predorsal distance. Pectorals folded forwards reach front of eye. 2nd dorsal not higher than pelvics. 7 9 ins. average size. Abundant in the tropics, especially in the Pacific, reaches rarely as far south as Durban, not plentiful in our area. Genus Trachystoma Ogilby, genotype Trachy.stoma mtilridens Ogilby. Adipose eyelids feeble. Lips thin, without papillae. Caudal forked. Maxilla end not markedly curved downwards, almost completely concealed. Anal starts well before 2nd dorsal. Africa and Australia. I species in our area. 890. TR.ACHYSrO.M.A FLRONOrCS (Smith), [\fugil euronotus.] Haarder. Mullet. Fresh Water Springer (Eastern Province). Previously wrongly identified as Mugil .^aliens Risso. Literature L 58, 65, 89, 248, 545. Fig. 890. TRACHYSTOMA EURONOTUS (Smith). Actual length 10 ins. 324 BONY FISHES^Family ATHERINIDAE D IV 1 I 8. A III 9. 43^5 scales. Tr. 14-15. Teeth distinct. Adipose eyelids rudimentary. Pectorals folded forwards do not reach beyond eye. Scaly process at base of 1st dorsal 6|-8 in predorsal distance. 2nd dorsal completely .scaly. Attains 14 ins. Found only in South Africa from Knysna to St. Lucia, in the sea at Natal. Occurs in most fresh waters of the eastern Cape coastal region, where if the water is at all dark, the fish may be almost black above, shading to dusky silvery below. Fishes from muddy water are not valued as food. Anglers speciali.se in fresh-water “Springer” fishing, using a long thin rod, fine line buoyed by small corks, and a small hook. Dough, flying ants, or termites are used as bait. On occasions large catches are made, mostly towards evening. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family ATHERINIDAK WHITEBAIT: SILVERSIDES Small mostly transparent fishes found in the shallow water of all but the coldest oceans, almost invisible when alive, but after death and on preservation the body becomes opaque. 2 dorsal fin.s, the first of slender spines. Related to but smaller than the MUGILIDAE, distinguished by a .silvery stripe along the body. Plentiful in lagoons, sometimes in large shoals, excellent bait and good eating, they are much preyed on by fishes and birds. 3 genera in South Africa. A. Pectorals and silvery stripe high up B. Pectorals and stripe midway up side. 1. 6-7 spines in 1st dorsal, body slender 2. 5 spines in 1st dorsal, body robust ho (891) Atherina (892 893) Hepsetia (894) Genus Iso, Jordan & Starks, genotype ho flosmahs J. & S. Body transparent, highly compressed silvery stripe near back, interrupted near caudal. Pectorals high up. Only one species in our area. Related flums in Japan and Australia held to be distinct may all eventually be found to be the .same as ours. 891. ISO NATALENSIS (Regan). Surf Sardine. Literature L 55, 67. Depth 3Mi. D IV-Vl- l 14-17. A I 22-26. Breast thin, sharp. Pectorals high on side. Scales very thin, barely visible, none on head or front of body. When alive almost invisible in the water, transparent, with faintest silvery stripe. Although abundant in surf from the Transkei to Beira this fish is hardly known. Attains 3 ins. Found only in South Africa, sometimes as far south as Knysna. ^ATALENSIS (Rgn.). Aclual length 3 in.s. Genus Atherina Linnaeus, genotype silvery stripe midway on side. Head and 2 species in our area. Atherina hepsetus Linnaeus. Slender-bodied transparent fishes with body scaly. Lower jaw with an upper expansion within the mouth. A. 10 dorsal rays B. 13-14 dorsal rays afra (892) breviceps (893) BONY FISHES— Family SPHYRAENIDAE 325 892. ATHERINA AFRA (Peters). Literature L 4, 21, 223, 248. Fig. 892. ATHERINA AF-'RA Peters. Actual length 3 ins. Depth about 5L D VI ; I 10. A I 13 14. Belly rounded. Pectorals in middle of side. Scales visible, each of the 37 -40 in lateral line with a small round pit. Body transparent when alive. Silvery stripe along side. .\ttains 3 ins. Stated to occur only on our east coast, extends to Durban, not abundant. Probably identical with /dr.vA'rt/// Ruppell. 893. ATHERINA BREVICEPS Cuvier. Silverside. Assous or Spierintje (Cape). Whitebait (Knysna). Literature L 4, 162, 655. Depth about 5. D VI-VII + 1 1 3- 14. A I 16-18. Belly rounded. About 46 series of scales. Pectorals in middle of side. Scales visible. Body transparent, difficult to see in the water. Average 3 ins., attains 5 ins. Found only in South Africa from Port Nolloth round the Cape to Natal, largely in estuaries. A timid fish much preyed on by aquatic creatures. In estuaries large shoals often swim head up near the surface, the snouts pitting the surface, but all dive as one when danger threatens. Good eating. Genus Hcpsetia Bonaparte, genotype Atherina hoyeri Risso. Robust body, with silvery stripe midway along side. Head and body scaly. No expansion of lower jaw within mouth. Only one species in our area. 894. HEPSETIA PINGUIS (Lacepede). Whitebait. Literature L 4, 19, 21, 47, 130, 575. Plate 68, p. 328. Depth about 5. D V 1 9-10. A I 13-14. Body markedly robust. L.l. about 40, each scale with small round pit. Scales visible. Transparent when alive. Attains 6 ins. An Indo-Pacific species which reaches Natal, rarely to East London. Excellent bait and good eating. Family SPHYRAENIDAE BARRACUDAS: PICUDA (Latin America) Long cylindrical body with small scales. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of 5 spines only. Large mouth, with strong canines in jaws and palate. Lower jaw projects. The large mouth is armed with a terrifying array of vicious fangs, and the torpedo-shaped body can move with great speed. Possibly the most ferocious of all creatures, these fishes destroy for the sheer lust of killing, and are known to herd others in shallow water so as to be able 326 BONY FISHES— Family POLYNEMIDAE to consume them at leisure. Some species attain 12 ft. Rightly dreaded in the tropics, for they attack men, and boat fishermen in the Carribean have been badly mutilated when incautiously handling lines overside. Barracudas occur in all warm seas and freely enter estuaries. Taking almost any llesh bait and freely hooked by trolling, large fishes are good fighters. The flesh is most delicate, and while few fishes are better eating, there have been reports that some are poisonous on occasions. The species look much alike and when preserved require close study before they can be distinguished. At present those found in the Atlantic are regarded as distinct from those of the Indo-Pacific. but it is likely that comparison of world-wide material will show that many artificial species have been created. Only one genus, Sphyraena Rose, genotype Eso.x sphyracna Linn. A number of species have been listed as found in our area, but only 3 records are reliable. These fishes are hardly ever seen south of Natal. A. Hind edge of upper jaw reaches to or below eye ... ... ... . jcUo (895) B. Hind edge of upper Jaw does not reach to eye. 1. Pelvics well behind pectoral ... . . ... ... ... japonicci (896) 2. Pelvics below pectoral . ohtiisaUi (897) 895. SPHYR.VENA JELLO Cuvier. Snock (Transkei). Seapike ( Natal). Barracuda (General), laterature L 4, 14, 19, 47, 579. Depth about 8. D V-f-1 9. A 1 8-9. L.l. 115-120. Front of 1st dorsal e.xactly above pelvic, which arises below pectoral. Greenish black above, fins yellowish. Attains 6 ft. An Indo-Malayan species, not common in our area, has been recorded from East London, Natal and Delagoa. 896. SPH\R.4EN.\ JAPONIC.V Schlegel. [Splivnicna acutipinnis Day, or cifricaiui G. & T., or luitaicnsis von Bonde.J Snoek (Transkei). Seapike (Natal). Barracuda (General). Literature L 4, 16, 43, 55. 328, 579. Fig. 896. SPHYRAESA JAPOMCA Schlegel. Actual length 4 I't. Depth about 8. D V • I 9. A 1 8. L.l. 115-130. Front of 1st dorstil above pelvic, which starts behind pectoral. Grey-green above, lateral line dusky. Caudal yellow, other fins dusky. .Attains at least 6 ft. An Indo-Malayan species, not uncommon in Natal, sometimes seen at East London, .luveniles reach Knysna. 897. SPHYRAENA OBTUSATA Cuvier. Snoek (Transkei). Seapike (Natal). Barracuda (General). Literature L 4, 14, 43. 328, 577, 579. Depth 6 7. D V ■ I 9. A 1 9. L.l. 85-90. Front of 1st dorsal behind front of pelvic, which arises below pectoral. Grey-green above, sharply lighter below. Fins yellowish. Attains 6 ft. Widespread in the Indo- Pacific, not uncommon in our area, but never south of Natal. Family POI.WEMIDAE THREAD-FrNS or THREAD-FISHES: BASTARD MLLl.ET Related to the MUGILIDAE these fishes also have two dorsal fins but a deeper body. The mouth while moderately large is below the snout, with small teeth. Adipose eyelids present. Pectoral fin in two parts, the ower of filamentous rays used as feelers, very long in the young, shorter in adults. Carnivorous. The flesh is excellent, and these fishes are of importance as food in some parts of the tropics. They enter estuaries freely and are usually taken in nets, but some are good angling fishes. Most are rather small, but in Indian waters one species grows to 6 ft. in length. Abundant in the Indo-Pacific, the 3 species which reach our shores are suffi- BONY FISHES -Family POLYNEM/DAE 327 ciently uncommon to be always curiosities in South Africa. 2 genera, but in our area only the genus Polydactylus Lacepede, genotype Polydactylus plumieri Lac., with a rather short anal fin about the same size as the 2nd dorsal. 3 species in South Africa. A. 5 free pectoral rays. 1. All pectoral rays simple •• . pleheius {^9^} 2. Most pectoral rays branched . . • indicus ( 899) B. 6 free pectoral rays ... . . ■ sextarius (9{)D) 898. POLYDACTYLUS PI.EBEIUS Broussonet. [Polynemus plehius or Uneatus Lac., or taeniatus Gnthr.] Bastard Mullet. Literature L 4, 21, 47, 328, 579. Depth 3.1. D VIII ■ 1 13. A II II 12. L.l. 61 64. Tr. 7/12. 1 5 gill-rakers. 5 lower pectoral rays, longest to or near end of pelvic. All pectoral rays simple. Golden-olive-dusky above, with a few narrow dusky stripes. Fins dusky. Attains 18 ins. Found throughout the western Indo-Pacific, is not uncommon in Natal waters and occasional specimens reach Knysna. 899. POLYDACTYLUS INDICUS Shaw. [Polynemus indicus.] Bastard .Mullet. Kuru (East Indies). Literature L 328, 579. Depth about 3i. 1) Vlll 1 13 14. All Hill 12. L.l. about 70. Tr. 7/13. 1 6 gill-rakers. 2-3 pectoral rays simple, the others branched. 5 lower free pectoral rays, 2nd or 3rd longest, reach almost to anal origin. Golden-olive, darker above, with faint lines along body. Fins yellowish. The largest species in our area attains at least 45 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay, 900. POI.YDACTYLUS SKXTARIUS Bloch, Bastard Mullet. Literature L 14, 19. 47, 328, 579. Depth 3. D Vlll ■ 1 12 13. A If 111 12-13. L.l. 44 50. Tr. 5/9. 15 gill-rakers. 6 lower pectoral rays, longest reaches to near end of pelvic. Golden-olive above, but mainly silvery. Attains 12 ins. An Indo-Malayan species which is not uncommon in Natal, occasional specimens reaching Algoa Bay. 328 BONY FISHES— Family SIGANIDAE ORDER SIGANOIDEA (901-902) RABBITFISHES Compressed ovate body with slippery skin and minute concealed scales. Small mouth with one series of incisors, no teeth on palate. Gill-openings restricted. Antrorse spine before dorsal fin. 7 anal spines. 2 spines in each pelvic with 3 soft rays between. Curious small herbivorous fishes of reefs and weeds of the tropical Indo- Pacific. They feed by nibbling at marine growths and quite often a shoal of these fishes moves head downwards browsing across a rock or reef. Only one family SIGANIDAE, with 2 genera. In our area only the genus Siganus Forskal, genotype Scarus siganus Forsk., with numerous species, founded mainly on markings, which fade after death so that identification is difficult with preserved material. The live fishes can vary the markings more rapidly than most other fishes. Examination of many live fishes indicates that possibly 3 species are in our area. These fishes should be handled with care as the spines are hard and sharp and inflict most painful stabs. A. Brownish, white spots ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... oramin (901) B. Mottled and marbled ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... rivulalus (902) C. Many dark spots ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... stcllalus (9Q2a) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 901. SIG.4NUS ORAMIN (Schneider). Rabbitfish. Slimy. Spiny. Literature L 4, 47, 127, 328, 61?. Fig. 901. SIGASUS ORA\f/.\ (Schn.). .Actual length 7 ins. Depth about 2J. D 1 Xll-XIll 10. A Vll 9. Pehic 13-1. 18 gill-rakers. No scales on cheek. Oli\e- green, brownish above, with many small roundish pale spots. Often a dark blotch above pectoral base. Attains 14 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches as far south as East London. .Abundant about reefs and in quiet weedy areas such as Delagoa Bay. Edible but not esteemed. 902. SIG.ANL’S Rl\ L L.ATL'S (Forskal). [Sigciiiu.'i nehulosti.', Q. &. G.] Rabbitfish. Slimy. .Spiny. Litera¬ ture L 4, 14. 21, 47. 147, 615. Plate 67, p. 317. Depth about 2^. D I-fXII Xlll 10. .A Vll 9. Pelvic 1 - 3 • 1. 1 8 gill-rakers. No scales on cheek. Attains 14 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, abundant as far as Delagoa Bay, mainly in weedy areas and estuaries, at times extends as far south as Algoa Bay. Edible but not esteemed. 902a. SIGANUS STELL.ATUS (Forskal). Rabbitfish. Slimy. Spiny. Literature L 113, 161, 248, 275, 615. Plate 35, p. 249. Depth 2). D I - Xlll 10. A Vll 9. Pelvic 1—3—1. I9--2I gill-rakers. Scales on cheek. Attains 13 ins. Indian Ocean, shallow tropical water, among weeds, found at Delagoa Bay. PLATE 68 820. Cymotmes /ec/iise. 5 ins. 8.37. RastrcHiger kanagtirta, 8 ins. 839. Scomber japonicus. 12 ins. 884. Strializa caiuilicii/ciiiis. 12 ins. 888 Valamiigil hiichanani, 20 ins. Hepsetia pinguis,S\ns. Actual length stated in each case. bony FISHES— Family GOBUDAE 329 ORDER GOBIOIDEA (903-944) Body normally robust, not much compressed, usually rather elongate, sometimes naked, more often scaly. Fin spines feeble. Dorsal often divided. Pelvics typically thoracic, of a feeble spine and 4-5 soft rays, sometimes separate, often partly or completely united to form a feeble sucking disc. No lateral line. Found in almost all seas, most abundant in tropical waters, nil carnivorous, the majority are small rather sluggish fishes which shelter under stones or among weeds, especially favouring tide-pools, quiet waters and estuaries. The bodies of many are coated with thick mucus so as to be rather slimy. As most are small to minute they are of little interest to the angler or as food. Some are indeed among the smallest of living vertebrates, the adult being less than an inch in length. By moving along from stone to stone and crevice to crevice during possibly hundreds of thousands or even millions of years even small and feeble species have spread over vast areas of the shores of the world. By voyaging with Boating logs or weeds they have reached and colonised even remote islands. Most exhibit variation of markings and even of form according to the environment, and systematists have repeatedly named as new well-known species of half a world away. Some species have indeed as many as 10 synonyms. Much work has been done on this difficult group, but despite that full revision is needed, which one worker may scarcely hope to accomplish in a lifetime. 4 main families may for convenience be recognised, but the classification within this Order here adopted is nominal. A. Pelvics fully united GohiiJae (903 934) B. Pelvics united at base only. 1. 2 dorsal fins Per iophthalmidae (935 -936) 2. 1 dorsal fin Trypauchenidae (931) C. Pelvics entirely separate . Eleotridae (938-944) Family (iOBIIDAE GOBIES: BUI.EYS Pelvics fully united to form a feeble sucking disc. Body typically scaly, sometimes naked. Mostly 2 separate dorsal fins, the 1st of 5—6 feeble spines. Mouth usually large, with small canine teeth. From the earliest times systematists have found it difficult to evolve a satisfactory classification of this group, and numerous genera have been proposed, few of which have any natural significance. The classification here adopted is nominal, and is not presented as a revision based on wide material. The copious illustrations provided should render identifications relatively easy. 10 genera are recognised in our area. A. No scales. 1. Eel shaped Taenioides (903-904) 2. Body short and deep ... ... ... .• . Gohiodon (905) Scales present. 1. Gill-openings right across throat ... ... ... . Psammogohius (906) 2. Gill-openings restricted to sides. (a) Maxilla almost reaches preopercle margin ... Vfahidoliu (907) (h) Maxilla short of preopercle margin. (i) Head sub-spherical, papillose . Paragohiodon (908) (ii) Head much depressed Ahranches (909) (iii) Head moderately or little depressed. (.v) Pectoral with free upper rays . Bathygohius (910-912) ( v) No upper free pectoral rays. (a) Transverse groove behind eyes . Gobiichthys (913) (/S) No transverse groove behind eyes. * Eye in front third of head . Cryptocentrus (914) ** Eye behind front third of head ... Gobius (915-934) 29 330 BONY FISHES- Family GOBUDAE Genus Taenioides Lecepedc, genotype Taenioides hermaniuuinis Lac. Elongate naked eel-like body, with long dorsal and anal fins, joined to caudal. Eyes almost obsolete. Mouth almost vertical, teeth large. Degenerate Gobies living in burrows in the mud of sheltered tropical waters of the Indo-Paeilie. 2 species in our area, easily distinguished. A. Many fine papillae on head . jack.soni (903) B. Fine barbels below mouth ... . ... ... ... ... ... csquivcl (904) 903. l AENIOIDES JACKSONl Smith. I iterature L 84. Plate 70. p. 332. Eyes barely visible. D about 33. A about 30. Fins enveloped in thick skin. Many line Haps of skin on head. Attains 5 ins. So far found only in the mud of St. Lucia estuary. 904. TAENIOIDES ESQUIV EL Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 70, p. 332. Eyes barely visible. D about 6 -48. A about 48. Body and fins encased in loose skin. Attains 12 ins. Lives in burrows in the mud. apparently emerges at night. So far found only in Delagoa Bay, near Polana beach. Genus Gobiodon Bleeker. genotype Gohius Iwtcrospiliis BIkr. Ovoid compressed naked body in 2 parts, the 1st of 6 feeble spines. Pelvics fully united to a disc. Tiny fishes of the tropical Indo- Pacific. Many species have been created, but most are “ artificial ”. I in our area. 905. GOBIODON CH RINUS Ruppell. Lit¬ erature L 88, 171, 657. Depth about 2\. D VI lO-II. A 10. Fine teeth in the jaws. Attains 2 ins. Live colours unknown, probably brown-yellow, sometimes with oblique bars. Known from a wide area of the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. Kig. 905. GOBIODON CITRINUS Rupp. Actual length 1 1 ins. Dorsal Genus Psammogobiiis Smith, genotype the single species. Scaly body. Gill-membranes quite free from isthmus. 2 dorsal fins. Pelvics fully united. 906. PS.AMMOGOBIL'S KNVSNAENSIS Smith. .Saiidgobv. Literature L 67. Plate 71, p. 332. Depth about 5. D VI — I 9. .A I 10. About .30 series of scales. Tr. 10. Attains 2J ins. Found only in South Africa, from Saldanha Bay to St. Lucia, apparently only in tidal estuaries, has not yet been found in t e sea. Lives in the fringe of the water on sand banks, the colour pattern perfectly matching the sand. .Seeks escape by short zig-zag dashes, finally burying itself. Abundant in most sandy estuaries. Genus Mahidolia Smith, genotype Gohius mysradnus Cuv. Scaly body. Enormous mouth, maxilla reaches almost to preopercle. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st elevated. Pelvics fully united to a disc. A few species of the tropical Indo-Pacific. 1 m our area. 907. M.AHIDOLIA DEQUE Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 72, p. 334. Depth 4A. D Vl-r-l 10. A I 9. About 50 series of scales. Tr. 24. Attains 3 ins. m Delagoa Bay under stones in shallow water. Easily recognised. So far found only Genus Paragobiodon Bleeker, genotype Gohius echinocephalus Rupp with prominent papillae. 2 dorsal fins. Pelvics fully united to a disc. Pacific, 1 in our area. Body scaly. Head large, bulbous, A few species of the tropical Indo- Numerous synonyms. Literature L 88, 171, 908. PARAGOBIODON ECHINOCEPHALUS Ruppell 328, 657. Plate 72, p. 3.34. Depth about 3j. D VI ■ I 10. A 10. About 24 series of scales. Tr. 8. Head naked. Attains I > ins venerated So '" Vr Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. One of the smallesi tebrates. Somewhat variable m form, many nominal species, but the fish is unmistakable. I'LAFE 69 913. Gobnchlhys lemayi, above female, below, male, both 6 ins. 937. Tnpaiahen microcephalus S 941. Ophwcara hmosus. 10 ms. Actual length stated in each case. • • BONY FISHES- Family GOB/fDAE 331 Genus Abranches Smith, genotype the single species. Scales minute. Mouth large. Head broad and depressed. 2 dorsal fins. Pelvics felly united to a disc. 909. ABRANCHES PINTO Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 72, p. 334. Depth about 6. D VI ; i |0. A 1 9. 30 series of scales from pectoral tip to caudal base, about 20 transversely. Head naked. Filaments on head and chin. Attains 2| ins. Not uncommon, under stones in shallow water at Ponte Mahone, Delagoa Bay. Shows a striking resemblance to the BATRACHOIDIDAE (No. 1215 on). Genus Bathygobius Bieeker, genotype Gohius fuscus Rupp. Scaly body. Pelvics fully united to a disc. Mouth moderate. Upper rays of pelvic free, silk-like. 3 species in our area. A. 8-9 dorsal soft rays . ... ... ••• . fuscus (910) B. 10-11 dorsal soft rays. 1. 8-9 anal soft rays . . william (911) 2. 10 anal soft rays . ... .■ .■ . saldanha (912) 910. BATHYGOBIUS FUSC'US Ruppell. Synonyms voluminous. Goby. Literature L 4, 45, 54, 55, 165, 317, 328, 461, 527, 657. Plate 71, p. 332. Depth about 5. D VI • ] 8-9. A 1 8-9. 35-40 series of scales. Tr. 12-14. Colour variable, almost always with light or bluish spots. Attains 4 ins. This species must exist in enormous numbers, as it is known to abound along almost the whole shore line of the warmer Indo-Pacific, extends as far as East London. Misled by minor local variations workers in many parts have been led to name it anew. A Goby with free upper pectoral rays, D VI ; 1 8-9, A 1 8-9, and 35 -40 series of scales, it is almost certainly this species. 911. BATHYGOBIUS WILLIAM Smith. Literature L 88. Plate 71, p. 332. Depth about 4J. DVl -fllO H. A I 8 9. 36 series of scales. Tr. 12-14. 10- 13 free pectoral filaments. Colour variable. Some specimens are jet-black when taken from among black stones, but within a minute change to the typical form. Attains 2.1 ins. Found in tide-pools from East London to Delagoa Bay, easily captured, not anywhere abundant, but not rare, an adept at concealment. 912. BA'I'HVt.OBIUS SALD.ANHA (Barnard). [Gohius saldanha.] Literature L 4. tig. 912. BATH YGOBIUS SALDASH A (Brnrd.). Actual length 21 ins. Depth about 5. D VI 1 11. A 1 10. About 35 .series of scales. Tr. 10. 5 free pectoral filaments. Pelvics reach anal origin. Maxilla extends below front margin of eye. Caudal rounded, shorter than head. No canines. Eyes close together. Brownish, with darker bars. Attains 3J ins. So far found only in Saldanha Bay. It is doubtful if this fish is a true Bathygobius as the pectoral filaments are not distinct. Genus Ciobiichthys Klunzinger, genotype Gohius petersi Klunz. Scales present, small. Pelvics fully united to a large disc. Mouth large. A groove behind the eyes. A few tropical Indo-Pacific species, 1 in our area. 913. GOBIICHTHYS LEMAYI Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 69, p. 331, male and female. Depth about 6. D VI . I 12. A I 13. About 105 series of scales, quite invisible on a live specimen. Attains 6 ins. Known only from Delagoa Bay among weeds. One of the most beautiful creatures in all nature. The live fish is able to make the colours flash up and sparkle, the pelvics being especially beautiful. 332 BONY FISHES— Family GOBUDAE Genus Cryptocentrus Cuvier, genotype Gobius cryptocentrus Cuv. Minute scales present. Pel vies fully united to form a disc. No groove behind eyes, which are far forward in head. A few rare species of the tropical Indo-Pacific, 1 in our area. 914. CRYPTOCENTRUS OCTOFASCIATUS Regan. Literature L 86, 485, 657. Plate 72, p. 334. Depth about 6. D VI ; I 10. A I 9. Scales minute, invisible on the live fish. Attains 3 ins. Found 40 years ago at the Chagos Islands (in the middle of the Indian Ocean), then in Japan in 1916, and in 1947 at Delagoa Bay, an amazing range of half the globe for this small feeble fish, especially as it is unknown along connecting shores. {Gobius sexfasciatus Day from India is possibly this fish.) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Gobius Linnaeus, genotype Gobius /tiger Linn. Scales present. Pelvics fully united to form a disc. Head at most moderately depressed. No tree rays in pectoral. Eye behind front third of head. Mouth large, maxilla does not reach near preopercle margin. Found in all seas, numerous species, many certainly " artificial ”, mostly in shallow water, though some descend to a fair depth. The eggs are laid in clusters in sheltered spots, and some species have been observed to guard them. Only one species is large enough to be of any account as tood, and many are stated to be unwholesome. 21* species in our area. An infallible key to species would be most voluminous, and that appended is only an outline. Most species have been illustrated. A. 6-7 anal soft rays. 1. 38 series of scales 2. 29 series of scales . B. 8-11 anal soft rays, (No. 931 also). 1. 5 dorsal spines 2. 6 dorsal spines. (a) 8-9 dorsal soft rays. (-v) 25-29 series of scales. (i) Mouth to front of eye (ii) Mouth to below or behind eye t,r) 30-35 series of scales (b) 10-14 soft dorsal rays. ( v) Caudal not shorter than head. (i) Barbels on chin (ii) Snout rather blunt . (iii) Black spot on spinous dorsal (iv) Blue bar from angle of mouth (.r) Caudal shorter than head. (i) Tr. scales 9-12. (a) Less than 30 series of scale: (B) More than 40 series of seal (ii) Tr. scales more than 13. (a) Lower jaw inferior iP) Lower jaw projects. * Tr. scales 14-16 ** Tr. scales 18 22 C. 12-14 anal soft rays. 1. Caudal longer than head. (a) 30 series of scales {b) More than 40 series of scales. (.V) Low skinny crest on head (r) No skinny crest on head... * For 925a see Appendix, (iurbatiettsis (915) tnaxiUaris {915a) key (916) itebulosus (917) dewctali (918) giuris (919) polynenta (920) spettce (921) signatus (922) acutipennis (923) /lebu/osus (917) agulbe/isis (924) ... aeneofuscus (925) t/iela/ioeepbalus (926) /nidi ceps (927) keie/isis (928) 507 and Plate 101. cris/atus (929) delagoae (930) 903 904 1 t'l./K 1 t /U 903. Taenioidesjacksonl 5 ins. 904, Taenioides esquivel. 12 ins. 916, Gohius key, 2} ins. 925. Gohius aeneofuscus 5 ins. 92S. Gobius keiensis, 2i ins. 932. Gobius siagon, 6 ins. Actual length stated in each case. PLATE 71 906. Psaiiiitiogohiiis knysnni'iisis, 2i ins. 910. Butliygohitix fuscus, 3 ins. 911. Bcnhygohius william. 11 ins. 917, Cabins nehiilosiis, 5 ins, 927. Cabins micliceps, 4 ins. Actual length stated in each case. bony FISHES— Family GOBIIDAE 333 2. Caudal not longer than head. (a) No barbels. (.v) 1st dorsal lovver than depth of body. (i) Black bar below eye . (ii) Black spot near caudal O') 1st dorsal elongated . {h) 2 barbels on chin . capistratus (931) stagon (932) alhomaculatus (933) hiharhatus (934) 915. GOBIUS DLRBANENSIS Barnard. [Mugihgohius durhanensis.] Literature L 4. Hig. 915. (jOBIUS DU RHANENSIS Brnrd. Actual length 2 ins. Depth about 5. D VI I 7. A I 7. 38 series of scales. Tr. 12. Maxilla reaches below centre of eye. Catidal shorter than head. Live colours unknown, darkish cross-bands. Known only from Durban, attains 2 ins. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 915a. GOBIUS M.AXILLARIS Davies. Literature L 12a. Fig. 915a. GOBIUS MAXILLARIS Dav. Actual length 11 ins. Depth about 4. D Vl+I 7 8. A I 7. About 29 series of scales. Tr. 9-10. Olive to brown, marks on dorsal bluish. Attains 11 ins. So far found only in the upper reaches of the Knysna estuary. Remarkably close to No. 918, from mangrove swamps at Durban, may eventually prove identical. 916. GOBIUS KEY Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 70, p. 332. Depth about 4|. D V - 1 9. A I 8. About 29 series of scales. Tr. 12. Known only from 1 specimen, 2.1 ins. long, from Delagoa Bay. 334 BONY FISHES— Family GOBIIDAE 917. GOBIUS NEBULOSUS (Forskal). Synonymy involved, previously listed as Gohiiis criniger Cuv,, and atherinokies Pet. Literature L 14, 113, 165, 221, 287, 328, 383. Plate 71, p. 332. Fig. 917. GOBIUS NEBULOSUS Forsk. Actual length .S ins. Depth about 5. D VI • 1 9-10. A 1 9-10. About 27 series of scales. Tr. 10. Dorsal spines sometimes slightly elongate. Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Natal, abundant in Delagoa Bay. A scavenger at the edge of the water in most bays and estuaries, taken in numbers in shore nets. 918. GOBIUS DEW.AAI.I Weber. Literature L 4, 47, 411, 545. Depth about 4. D VI ; 1 8. A 1 8. 26 series of scales. Tr. 10. Head naked above. Mouth inferior, large, in some specimens the maxilla reaches beyond hind margin of eye. Caudal rounded. Several found 50 years ago in and about Durban Bay, not since seen. Stated to reach l.J ins., and to be yellow-brown with zig-zag marks along side, and a dark spot on hind part of 1st dorsal. Types in Holland. Very close to No. 915a. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 919. GOBIL'S GIliRIS Hamilton. Synonymy voluminous. CJoby. lank (Joby. Literature L 4, 14, 21, 47.145,328.411.545,657. Plate 73, p. 337. Depth 5-6i. D VI - I 8-10. A I 8-9. 30-35 series of .scales. Tr. 8-10. Caudal variable in length. Attains 20 ins. in tropical waters. One of the most enterprising of fishes, has colonised most of the tropical Indo-Pacific, including fresh waters in many parts. Is in consequence so variable in form and colour, that systematists do not really know if all the variations are one or halt a dozen species. Research may show that divergence is in progress. In our area it abounds in most estuaries and landlocked coastal lagoons from Algoa Bay eastwards, and occurs probably in many inland waters also. One large and well nourished specimen was found tar up a Durban sewer. In Indian waters it is a valued food-fish flourishing in special ponds and pools, of both sea and brackish waters. 920. GOBIUS POLYNEM.A Bleeker. Literature L 4, 14, 211, 328, 594, 657. Fig. 920. GOBIUS POL YNEMA Blkr. Actual length .t ins. Depth about 5J. D VI -110-11. A I 9-10. About 30 series of scales. Tr. 9. Small barbels beneath ^ ’^‘‘^espread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, mainly in muddy areas, down to 30 fathoms, reaches as far south as Durban, not abundant in our area. Cryplocentriis Maliicloliu iliu/ite, 3 ins. 908 oclofascialu.s, 3 ins BONY FISHES - Family GOB! I DAE 335 ‘>21. GOBIUS SPENCE Smith. Literature L 86. Depth 5. D VI I I 10 1 1. A I 9. About 28 series of scales. Tr. 8-9. Sandy grey with green and blue sheens. Attains 2{ So far found only in shallow water in Delagoa Bay, not uncommon. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 922. COBILIS SKJN.ATUS Peters. Literature L 4, 221, 248, 383, 414. Depth 5 6. D VI 1 10. A 1 9 10. .30 series of scales. Tr. 8-9. Caudal pointed, equal to head or longer. No scales on head. Stated to be greenish, with dark blotches, spots on head, a dark spot between 5th-6th dorsal spines. Attains 3 ins. Recorded from Mozambique almost 100 years ago. A mysterious species, not since identified with any certainty. Possibly the young of No. 917. 923. (JOBIIJS ACTJTIPENMS Cuvier. [Apanius acutipeimis.] Literature L 4, 14, 165, 248, 328. Depth about 43. D VI • I 10 1 1, 1st dorsal high. A 1 10-11. About 27 series of scales. Tr. 7. Maxilla reaches well below eye centre. Caudal pointed, longer than head. Head naked. Dull coloured, with blotches along side, a bluish bar from eye to corner of mouth. Attains 4 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Pondoland, rare in our area. 924. GOBIL'S .\(;L LFIENSIS Barnard. Literature L 4. Depth about 5. D VI 1 II. A I 10. About 45 series of scales. Tr. 11 12. Maxilla reaches below front margin of eye. Head naked. Caudal shorter than head. Yellow or orange with brown cross-bars. A dark spot 4th“6th dorsal spines. Attains 3,3 ins. Known only from the Cape to East London in 20-40 fathoms. Kig. 924. GOBIUS AGULHE\SIS Brnrd. .Actual length 3 ins. 925. (iOBICS .AENEOEUSCCS F’eters. Literature L 4. 208, 288. 383, 545. 580. Plate 70, p. 332. Depth about 5.3. D VI 110. A I 10. About 60 series of scales. Tr. 17. Head naked. .Attains 10 ins. Estuaries and fresh waters of the tropical East African area, reaches as far south as Natal. 926. GOBIUS MELANOCEPHALUS Bleeker. Literature L 4, 45, 196, 328, 527. Depth about 5. D VI - I 10. A 1 9-10. About 55 series of scales. Tr. 14-16. Maxilla reaches below front third of eye. Head naked. Caudal shorter than head. Pelvics almost reach vent. No free pectoral rays. Brown to greenish, with dark spots and streaks. Fins spotted, pectoral with dark curved bar at base above. Attains 5 ins. An Indo-Pacific species which reaches as far south as Durban, rare in our area. 336 BONY FISHES— Family GOBIIDAE 927. GOBIUS NL'DICEPS Cuvier. [Gohius oHraceus Cast., or capensis Cast., or gilchristi BIgr., or mtalensis Rgn. Amaya nudiceps.] Dikkop. Bully. Goby. Literature L 4, 14, 55, 165, 251, 4! I, 413, 545. Plate 71, p. 332. Fig. 927. GOBIUS NUDICEPS Cuv. Actual length 4 ins. Depth about 5. D VI rl 10-13. A 1 9-11. About 60 series of scales. Tr. 18-22. Head naked. Attains 7 ins. Found only in our area from the West coast to Natal. The most abundant Goby of our South coast, in all rock pools, not timid. Penetrates atid lives in estuaries, among weeds and eveti tn burrows in the mud. Most variable in colour and pattern, but needs proper investigation as several species may be confused. A voracious small fish, excellent for bent-pin angling. 928. GOBIUS KEIENSIS Smith. Literature L 75. Plate 70, p. 332. Depth 52. D VI • I 12. A I 12. 30 series of scales. Tr. 9. Head naked. Attains 2h ins. Known from the mouth of the Kei River. 929. GOBIUS CRIST.-LTUS Day. [Gohius m/chalis Barnard.] Literature L 4, 328. Fig. 929. GOBIUS CRISTATUS Day. .Actual length .t', Ins. Depth about 5. D VI • I 12-13. A I 13-14. About 50 series of scales. Tr. 12. A low skmny crest on nape. Caudal pointed, longer than head. Scales on head to above eye. Live colours not known vague blotches along side, some spots on fins. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacifie, reaches Durban down to 40 fathoms. Rare in our area. 930. GOBIUS DEL.AGO.VE Barnard. Literature L 7. Plate 55, p. 294. Fig. 930. GOBIUS DELAGOAE Brnrd. Actual length 3 ins. Depth 6J. D VI — 1 13. A I 13. About 55 series of scales. Tr. 16 of eye. Caudal pointed, longer than head. Colour brilliant. Attains 3 ins Delagoa Bay. Maxilla reaches below front margin Known only from Inhaca Island, PLATE 73 919. Gohiiis giuris, 5 ins. 935. Helereleolri.s diac/cniatiim. 2\ ins. 939. Butis caperams. 11 ins. 943. Callcleolris hehclingenii, 5 ins. 944. Laccocleotris lineopinnis (after Bell Maricy), 45 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family PERIOPHTHALM! DAE 337 Synonymy involved. Literature L 4, 221, 383, 414, 580, 657. 93 1. GOBIUS CAPISIRATUS Peters. Plate 72, p. 334. Depth about 4L O VI ; i 1 1 12. A I II 12. About 30 series of scales. Tr. 9-10. Attains 3 ins. Wide- .spread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Natal. Not uncommon in our area. 932. GOBIUS STAGON Smith. Literature L 86. Plate 70, p. 332. Depth .3^. D VI : I 13 14. A I 14. About 52 series of scales. Tr. 23. Attains 6 ins. So far found only over most ol Delagoa Bay and at Limpopo Mouth, a rather heavy Goby, easy to catch, not abundant. Related to similar species known from Mauritius. 933. GOBIUS ALBOiVIACULA I US Ruppell. [Gohius vonhondei Literature L 71, 248, 414. f ig. 933. (iOHIUS ALBOM AC Ul^ATUS Rupp. Actual length 5 ins. Oepth about 3.1. D VI I 14 15. A I 12-14. About 52 series of scales. Tr. 18-20. Olive green with blue spots, also blue streaks on opercic. Attains 6 ins. Found only from the Red .Sea to Delagoa Bay, not abundant. 934. GOBIUS BIBARBAIUS von Bonde. (ioby. Literature L 4, 96. Depth about 4.-'. D VI I 13. A I 13. About 57 series of scales. Tr. about 16. Yellow to brownish, mottled, fins barred. Attains 5 ins. Known from St. Helena Bay to St. Sebastian Bay in 28 50 fathoms. Fig. 9-M. GOHIUS BIBARBATUS won B. Actaal length 3 ins. For lull information about any hsh turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family PERIOPH HI AI.MIDAE MUDHOPPERS: WRIGGLERS Pelvic bases united or closely adjacent, but fins otherwise separate. Body naked or with small scales, often almost invisible. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of feeble spines. Mouth moderate. No gill-rakers. A few specialised Gobioid fishes provisionally associated here. 2 genera in our area. A. 6 spines in 1st dorsal . Hetendeolris (935) B. 12 17 spines in 1st dorsal ... ... ... ... ... ... .. Periophtlialmiis (936) Genus Hetereleotris Bleeker, genotype Gohius diademalus Rupp. Pelvics united at base only. Scales present, often small and concealed. 2 dorsals, the 1st of 6 feeble spines. Mouth moderate with feeble teeth. 2 species in OLir area, I described below. For No. 935a, see Appendix and Plate 101. 30 338 BONY FISHES— Families TRYPAVCHENIDAE and ELEOTRIDAE 935. HETERELEOTRIS DI.4DEMATUS (Ruppell). [Gohius or Gohiosoma (Hadcmatum. Lcioclcotris zonaius Fowler.] Wriggler. Literature L 4, 19, 55, 88, 151, 248. Plate 73, p. 337. Depth 5-6. DVltl 11-12. A I 10. About 40 series of .scales, quite invisible in the live tish. Tr. 12. No gill-rakers. Pattern invariable, but ground colour varies from milk-white to light brown. Attains 2J ins. Tropical east coast of Africa, as far south as the Bashec. Appears to be more abundant in spring and summer. Lives under stones in pools, cunning and difficult to spot and catch. Leaves the water and wriggles about the shady parts of the rocks. Genus Periophthalmus Bloch, genotype Periopluhalmus papilio Bloch. Pelvics united at base, not to apex. Pectoral with long muscular base. Small scales present. 2 dorsals, the first of 10 17 feeble spines. Eyes high up, close together, erectile. Authorities differ here, some stating only I variable species, others accept several species. A revision based on world-wide material is necessary. I species enters our area. 936. PER10PHTH.4LMUS C.4NTONENS1S Osbcck. [Periophthalmus koclreuleri Gnthr. Synonymy involved.] Mudhopper. Literature L 4, 47, 328, 383, 655, 657. Depth 5 6. DX XVll 10-12. AI 10 12. About 90 series of almost invisible scales. Teeth feeble. C'olour mostly drab. Attains 5 ins. If only one species is accepted it ranges over almost all tropical seas, favouring muddy flats in sheltered areas such as Mangrove swamps, known from Natal northwards, rare in our area. Spends most of its time out of water, hunting small crabs and other creatures for food. The muscular pectorals as well as the pehics are used as limbs by means of which the fish crawls about. It hops with speed and agility and is astonishingly difficult to capture uninjured. The erectile eyes are periodically retracted and roll round in a j-jg 93^^ periophthalmus castos'ENSIS Osb. grotesque manner, possibly to be moistened. As Actual length .t ins. the fish often rests with the head up and the lower margin of the tail in the water, it has been suggested that it breathes through the tail. A bold and rather revolting creature in keeping with its surroundings. Fa m i ly 1 R YP AL'C 1 1 EN I D A E Elongate compressed body, with small mostly isolated scales. A single dorsal along most of the back, con¬ fluent with the caudal. Pelvics united at base, not forming a disc. Mouth oblique, with small sharp teeth. A cavity in head above gill-cavity, opening into an external pit. No gill-rakers. Gill-membranes fused with isthmus. A few species of tropical waters, generally allocated to the GOBIIDAE. but here given family rank. One genus Trypauchen Cuvier, genotype Gohius vagina Bloch, with 1 species in our area. 937. TRVP.4UCHE.N MICROCEPH.4LL S Bleeker. [Ctenotrypauchen haniurcii Hora.] Literature 1. 4, 45, 47, 602, 657. Plate 69, p. 331. Depth about 7. D about 55. A about 45. About 60 70 series of scales. Tr. about 14. Attains 5.'. ins. Widespread in the tropical Indian Ocean and western Pacific, living in burrows, mainly in muddy or shingly areas along the shore and in estuaries, down to 15 fathoms. Rare in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family ELEOTRIDAE Fairly elongate body with small or moderate scales. Pelvics fully separate. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st usually of 6 feeble spines. Mouth moderate, teeth feeble, usually none on palate. A number of varied forms with puzzling intergradations grouped here. Numerous proposed genera, 5 accepted as present in our area. W^ r ^ ^ '’• V ' > « s * * - ■** if '='■ . •/ H*.- .' ’ ' . Bj * •■*•-. 'I •i^*' »**»*■' "’/ »*• I; .•■' v"'- '- '5, "■ ' ' - fJi. PLATE 74 952. Bicnnius conmlus, 5 ins. 955. Omchranchus strialus, 3 ins. 959. Pelroscirte.s iiiilranis, 2 ins. 975. Haliiia- blennius dussumieri, 5 ins. Male on right, and actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES Family ELEOTRIDAE 339 A. 1 or more spines on preopcrcle . B. No spines on preopcrcle. 1 . Serrated ridge above eye . 2. No serrated ridge above eye. ia) Intercsrbital scaly . {h) Interorbital naked. (.V) Serft dorsal short . (,v) More than 30 soft dorsal rays Eleolris (938) (939 -940) Ophiocara (941 942) Calleleotris (943) Laccoeleotris (944) Genus Eleotris Gronow, genotype Gohius pisonis Gmel. Pelvics fully separate. A spine at preopercle angle, usually hidden by skin. Scales present. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, 1 in our area. EEEO'I'RIS FUSCA (Bloch). Literature L 4, 47, 127, 328, 545. Fig. 93«. ELEOTR/S fUSCA ilHoch). Actual length 4 ins. Depth about 5. [9 VI ■ 1 8. A I 8. 55 65 series of scales. Tr. about 20. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, penetrating estuaries, even to fresh water. Extends to the Pondoland coast. A drab sluggish small fish found under stones and among refuse in shallow water, mainly in estuaries. Spine at pre- operclc angle curves forwards and down. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Butis Blceker, genotype Cheilociipterus hutis Ham. No spines on preopercle. Pelvics fully separate. A serrated ridge above eye. Scales present. Indo-Pacific, 2 species in our area. A. Head not markedly depressed ... ... . . caperatus (939) B. Head depressed, flattened . ... ... . . hui is (940) 939. BU TIS C.APERA'rU'S Cantor. [Eleoiris clelagoensis Brnrd,] Literature L 4, 248. Fig. 939. BUTIS CAPERATUS Cantor. Actual length 3 ins. Plate 73, p. 337. Depth about 4. D VI ■ 1 8. A 1 8-9. About 28 series of scales. Tr. 9-10. Interorbital naked. Attains 3 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay, not uncommon, lives under stones. 340 BONY FISHES— Family ELEOTR/DAE 940. BUTIS BLTIS Hamilton. [Elcotris hutis.] Literature L 145. 328, 545, 657. Depth about 5. D VI : I 8. A I 8. About 30 series of scales. Tr. 10 II. Head broad and depressed. Maxilla extends below front third of eye. Head fully scaly. Rather dull colours, fins spotted. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Dclagoa Bay, rare in our area. Genus Ophiocara Gill, genotype Elcotris ophioccphalus Cuv. Pelvics fully separate. No spines on preopcrcle. No serrated ridge above eye. Interorbital scaly. Small fishes of the Indo-Pacifie, but larger than most others in this family, found mostly in estuaries and rivers. These fishes are not well known and need revision, 2 in our area. 941. OPHIOC.AR.A LIMOSUS Smith. [Elcotris limosiis.] Literature L 7 1 . Plate 69, p. 331 . Depth about 4. D VI • 1 8. A 1 7. 41 series of scales. Tr. 13. 12 gill-rakers. Attains 10 ins. Found in the Isipingo lagoon. Quite likely a known Indo-Pacific species not yet adequately described. 942. OPHIOC.4R.4 .APOROS Bleeker. Formerly regarded as Elcotris ophioccphalus C. & V. Literature L 47, 165, 248, 328, 545. Depth 4 5. DVl-l-18-9. A I 7 8. 31 40 series of scales. Tr. 12 14. Dark brown, sometimes cross-bars, soft dorsal and caudal spotted, anal with light edge. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban. Has lower and smaller fins and larger teeth than No. 941. Genus Calleleotris Gill, genotype Elcotris strigata C. & V. Pelvics fully separate. No spines on preopcrcle. No spiny ridge above eye. Interorbitai naked. Minute scales. Soft dorsal short. 3 rare species of the Indo- Pacific, I in our area. 943. CALLELEOTRIS HELSDINGEMI (Bleeker). Literature L 86. Plate 73, p. 337. Depth 5- 6. DVI-Ill. AIM. Scales quite invisible in the live fish, which is exceedingly beautiful. Attains 5 ins. Known from the Far East, discovered close on 100 years ago, only 2 specimens. Found in Delagoa Bay. Genus Laccoeleotris Fowler, genotype the single species. Pelvics fully separate. No spines on preopcrcle. No spiny ridge above eye. Top ot head naked. Scales minute. Dorsal long, more than 30 soft rays. Endemic. 944. LACCOELEOTRIS LINEOPINMS Fowler. Literature L 21. Plate 73, p. 337. Depth about 7. D VI * 38. A I 37. 15 gill-rakers. Scales minute, invisible in live fish, sunk in tiny pits in skin. Only one specimen known, 4.1 ins. long, taken from the stomach of a Flounder caught olT Natal in 50 fathoms. More wanted. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER DISCOCEPHALI (945-949) REMORAS: SUCKERFISHES: SILARKSLCKERS Elongate body, with flattened head, on which is a powerful sucking disc. This is a modified front dorsal fin, of which the spines have become divided and flattened so as to form movable laminae inside a fleshy margin. When this oval margin is pressed against the skin of a large fish, or the side of a vessel, by turning up the laminae a partial vacuum is created, so that the disc adheres firmly. Attached in this manner these fishes travel with the host, and they can instantly detach themselves, or by suitable movement of the parts of the disc slide forward along the body of the host. Most of these fishes arc carnivorous, and by travelling with predaceous fishes such as Sharks and large Serranids, doubtless find plentiful food in the fragments from the host's meals. It has been stated that they eagerly consume the faeces of the host, and that this indeed forms their main food. They are not degenerate, being able to swim quite powerfully, and fight gamely when hooked. They do no harm to the host nor do the fishes commonly frequented show any signs of fear at their presence. Their flesh is wholesome. They are found in all but the coldest seas. BONY FISHES - Family EC HEN E! DAE Family ECHENEIDAE 341 Elongate body wi th minute scales. Large mouth with fine teeth in jaws and on palate. 3 genera. A. 10 laminae in . Phtheirichthvs (945) B. 12 or more lam Jncie in disc. 1. Pectorals rounded . /femora (946-948) 2. Pectorals pointed ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Echeneis (949) Clen us Phtheirichthys Gill, genotype /mca/a Menz. Elongate body. 10 laminae on disc. I species. ^45. PH THEIRICH EHYS EINEATUS (Menzies). .Sharksucker. Literature L 4, 122, 412, 655. Fig. 945. PUTHE! RICHTH YS LINEATUS (Menz.). Actual length 20 ins. Disc about as long as head, width about .1 length, with 10 laminae. D 32-34. A 32 34. About 10 gill-rakers. Attains at least 30 ins. I n most seas, but rather rare, has been found at the Cape, Algoa Bay, and Durban. Found on large fishes such as Sea-Pike (No. 896) and the Brindle Bass (No. 452). Oenus Remora Forster, genotype Echeneis remora Linn. Fairly robust but elongate body. Disc with 12-20 laminae. Pectoral rounded. 3 species. A. 12-13 laminae . ... albescens (9A6) B. 14 20 laminae. 1. 22-25 dorsal soli rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... remora (947) 2. 29-32 dorsal soil rays ... . ... . hrachyptera {948} 946. REMORA Al^BE.SCENS Temminck & Schlegel. [Echeneis albescens or clvpeata Gnthr.] Literature L 4. 47, 200, 328, 461, 580. Head rather broad, body robust. Disc about I body length, ^ as wide as long, with 12-13 laminae. Soft dorsal with 17 22 rays. A 20 23. Attains at least 12 ins. An Indo-Pacific species recorded in our area from Algoa Bay to Natal. Lives largely within the gill-chamber of large fishes such as Manta (No. 88), and is usually almost colourless. 947. RPFMOR.A RKMOR.A (Linnaeus). [Echeneis remora.] Remora. .Sharksucker. Lootsman. Sucker¬ fish. Pegador (Portuguese). Literature L 4, 47, 105, 655. 16-20 laminae in disc. Soft D 22-25. A 23-25. Disc about | as wide as long. 12 gill-rakers. Usually brownish or dusky. Attains at least 18 ins. Found in all warm seas, in our area recorded from Knysna to Delagoa Bay. 342 BONY FISHES— Family BLENNIIDAE 948. REMORA BRACHYPTERA (Lowe). [Echeneis hnichyptera.] Sharksuckcr. Suckcrfi.sh. Remora. Literature L 4, 174, 251, 328. 14-17 laminae on disc, which is about ] total length, and almost ) as wide as long. Soft dorsal 29 32. A 25 30. Uniform brownish. Attains 12 ins., usually smaller. Often attached to Swordfishes (No. 873) and to the Brindle Bass (No. 452). Found in most seas. Genus Echeneis Linnaeus, genotype Echeneis naucrates Linn. Elongate slender body. Disc with 20-28 laminae. Pectorals pointed. 949. ECHENEIS NAUCRATES Linnaeus. {Lcptechencis naucrates.] Suckerfish. Sharksucker. Peixe Pegador (Portuguese). Literature L 4, 19, 34, 105, 655. Fig. 949. ECHENEIS NAUCRATES Linn. AcUuil length 24 ins. 21-28 laminae in disc, which is more than twice as long as broad. Soft D 32-40. A 32-37. About 9 gill-rakers. Brown to black, with bands as shown. Attains at least 36 ins. In all warmer seas, has been found from Mossel Bay to Beira. Prefers large Sharks as host. ORDER BLENNIOIDEA (950-1028) Moderately to very elongate body, naked, or with rudimentary or fairly well developed scales, never wholly scaly. Lateral line rarely complete. Pelvics far forward, reduced or absent. Mostly small rather specialised fishes, many eel-like, with representatives in almost all seas. They rarely swim free but spend most time in concealment and protection of some kind. Mostly in the shallows, a few extend to deep water. DilTerentiation is not easy, as most are .small and difficult to handle. 9 families in our area. The following key is approximate only, most species have been illustrated. A. At most one lateral line. 1. Dorsal total of less than 60 (except Xiphasia, No. 964). (r?) I or 2 dorsal fins. (i) Dorsal spines feeble. (.y) Teeth normal, fixed ... (>’) Teeth in lips, movable (ii) Dorsal spines strong (6) 3 dorsal fins ... . 2. Dorsal of more than 60 rays. (a) Vent at throat . {h) Vent normal. (i) Pseudobranchiae small or absent (ii) Pseudobranchiae well developed. (.v) Pelvics below chin . ( v) Pelvics absent or behind eye B. 3 lateral lines. 1. Normal rounded caudal . 2. Body pointed, no free caudal Blenniidae (950-964) Sakiriidae (965-976) Clinidae (977 1004) Triptcrygiontidae ( 1 005- 1 007 ) C arapidae ( 1 OOX - 1 0 1 0) Brotididae (101 1 1021) Ophidiidae (1023-1024) Zoarcidae (1025-1027) . .. Halidesmidae (1028) Brotididae (1022) PLATE 75 965. Cin ipectes kosicnsis, 7 ins. 970. Mticops periopluhahmis, 4 ins. 970a. Ahicops gibhifrons, 31 ins. 971. AIHcops edentiiltis, 4 ins. 912. Ahicops oryx, 4 ins. 973. Hahmih/cnniiis unkolor, 4 ins. 973a. Hahmblenniiis mannoratus, 3 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY PISHES- Family Bl.ENNUDAE 343 Family BLENNIIDAE BLENNIES Smooth elongate body without scales. Dorsal fin along most of the back, spines if present feeble. Anal spines absent or feeble, reduced in females, sometimes with spongy excrescences in males. Pelvics far forward Mouth small, fixed close-set teeth in each jaw, sometimes a canine on each side, in some species relatively enormous, in order to see which it is necessary to force the lower jaw fully open (see Fig. 960). L.l. obsolescent^ usually visible only in front. Characteristic carnivorous mainly small fishes, mostly of shallow water in all but the coldest seas, living mainly in and about reefs, usually abound in tide-pools, sheltering under stones, in shells and weeds, penetrate and live in estuaries, almost to fresh water. The eggs are laid in sheltered spots, often in empty shells, and in some cases the parents guard the eggs. Mostly blending perfectly with the environment, those in dark areas are often drab, but some are beautifully coloured. While in most cases the markings are constant, the actual shades may vary widely according to the environment. As they are mostly small and adepts at concealment, their variety and beauty are almost unknown save to those expert in finding them. They show considerable sexual dimorphism, as may be seen from the illustrations. Those with the enormous rather fantastic canines are able to swing the lower jaw back almost to touch the chest, and impale their prey with these large fangs. They easily sink them full length into a finger or hand. Some species leave the water freely, and crawl or hop about in search of food. The colours fade rapidly after death, and identification is not easy for the Museum worker, but the live fishes should present no difficulty with the illustrations provided. 13 genera are recognised, 7 in our area. Generic limits are in need of revision. A. Lower canines absent or small. 1. Gill-membranes free from isthmus ... ... . 2. Gill-openings restricted. (a) Skin loose and flabby, envelops dorsal and anal ... (b) Skin normal B. Lower canines large and curved. 1. Depth 21-6. (a) Gill-opening entirely above pectoral base. (i) Interorbital less than eye (ii) Interorhital equal to or more than eye (b) Gill-opening partly before pectoral base 2. Body elongate, eel-like Blennius (950-953) Chataroderma (954) Omobranchus (955-958) Peuoscirtes (959) Dasson (960) Aspidontux (961-963) XIphasia (964) Cjcnus Blennius Linnaeus, genotype Blennius occdlaris Linn. Teeth comb-like, fixed in jaws, sometimes a small or moderate sized canine on each side of each jaw, or in lower only. Gill-membranes form a fold across the throat, but are free. Lateral line anteriorly a double row of pores, obsolete posteriorly. Dorsal of 1 1 or 12 feeble spines, with more numerous soft rays, a notch behind the spines. .Anal spines in males covered with spongy tissue. Most have a tentacle above the eye. Numerous species, mainly small fishes, in all but the coldest seas, mostly in shallow water. 4 in our area. The synonymy is involved and many " artificial " species have been created. A. Median row of tentacles before dorsal . . ■ . cristatus (950) B. No tentacles on back. 1. Throat with dark bars ... ... ... ... ... .. . .. fascigula (951) 2. Throat not plainly barred. («) Dark spot if present lst-2nd dorsal spines... ... ... ... ... cornutus (952) (b) Dark spot 3rd-5th dorsal spines ... ... ... ... . •.• ocellatus (953) 950. BLENNIUS CRISTATUS Linnaeus. \Blennius punctifer Rgn., or sieindachneri Day, or semifasciatus’ Rupp.] Blenny. Literature L 4, 19, 43, 52. 105, 317, 412, 655. 711. Plate 76. p. 344. Depth 3-4. D Xl-Xll 14-16. A 11 15-18. 10-20 filaments on nape. Colour variable, cross-bars and spots almost always present. Tentacle above eye the same in both sexes. Attains 4) ins. In warm waters of all oceans, known from Port Alfred northwards, not uncommon. BONY FISHES— Family BLENNUDAE Bl>ENNIUS FASCIGHLA Barnard. [Blennius Irifaxcigula Fwir.] Literature L 4, 21, 59, 72, 71 p. 344, male. Fig. 951. BI. ENNIUS I'ASCIGULA Barnard. .-Xctual length 3 ins. Depth 3.1-4. D XII 19-23. A II 20-22. Male with anal spines in a ball ot spongy tissue, and longer filaments above eye. Colour variable, bars and spots always present, also those on throat and chin. Attains 3.‘ ins. Found only in our area from Algoa Bay northwards, abundant in tide-pools, hides with great skill. Lays and guards eggs in empty shells. 952. BLENNIUS CORNUTUS (Linnaeus). [Blennius srn/lyi G. & T.]. Byter. Blemiy. Literature L 4, 19. 42, 67, 105, 655, 711. Plate 74. p. 339, male and temale. Depth about 4. D XII 17-20. A 11 19-22. Colour most variable, sometimes rather dark. Attains 6 ins. Tentacles of male longer. Found only in our area from Walfish Bay to Natal, mainly among stones. Lays and guards eggs in empty shells. Gives sharp nips. 953. BLENNIUS OCELLATUS Gilchrist & Thompson. Bleniiy. Literature L 4, 43. Depth about 4. D XII 21. A II 21. A eluster of filaments above each eye. Nasal tentacle simple. No canines. Mottled brownish with irregular eross-bars, the anterior forming a dark spot on the dorsal between the 3rd-5th spines. Attains 3 ins. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Saldanha Bay, 9 14 fathoms. 344 951. Plate 76, For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Chalaroderma Norman, genotype the single speeies. Gill-membranes joined to isthmus, openings at sides of head. No canine teeth. A tentacle above eye. Skin loose and flabby, envelops dorsal and anal fins. Hind part of L.I. below middle of side. 954. CH.\L.\RODERM.\ C.APITO (Cuvier). [Blennius ccipito.] BIcnny. Literature L 4, 162, 248, 711. Fig. 954. CHALARODERMA CARITO (Cuv.). Actual length 7 ins. Depth about 4.1. D XIII 19-21. A I 19-22. Snout blunt, transverse groove behind eyes. A short bushy tentacle at nostril, similar one above eye. Skin loose and flabby, covering dorsal and anal. Gill-membranes fused with isthmus, openings on side only. Attains 9 ins. Live colours not known, found only in our region. Cape to Natal, rare. PLATE 76 950. Blenniiis crislaliis, 3 ins. 951. Blenniiis fascigiila, 3 ins. 956. Omohranchus kallosoino, 2i in. 956a. Omo- branchus deahneuki. 24 ins. 957. Onwhranc/u/s Japoiiiais. 3 ins. 967. Anletmabkimiiis hifUinn, 3" ins. 968. Anten- mihlenniiis bypeneles, 2.! ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES Family BLENNUDAE 345 Genus Omobranchus Cuvier, genotype Blenniu.s punctatus Cuvier. Gill-openings restricted to above pectoral ase. Lower canines of fair size. Skin normal. Body rather elongate. No tentacles on head. Numerous species of tropical seas, mostly Indo-Pacific, 5 in out area, distinguished mainly by markings. A. Cross-bars on body. 1. Numerous vertical dark bars . . slriatu.s (955) 2. Angular dusky bars . . kallosoma (956) 3. Several light bars. No. 956a. See Appendix and Plate 76. B. Lines along body ... ... . , . japonicus (951) ^ BoJyP'ain . ... ... . ehngatus (95%) 955. OMOBRANCHUS SIRIA'LUS (Jatzow & Lenz). [Petroscirtes or Blennius woodi G. & T.] Litera¬ ture L 4, 19, 43, 54, 414, 71 1. Plate 74, p. 339, male and female. Oepth about 5. D 30-33. A 21-23. Lower canines of fair size. Males with crest on head. Attains 4 ins. Known from the east coast of Africa, extends as far south as Knysna. Lives under stones in shallow water, frequents estuaries. Hops about with agility, and clicks the lower canines full-length into hand or finger with 956. OMOBRANCHUS KALLOSOMA (Bleeker). [Petroscirtes kallosotna.] Literature L 86, 248, 694 711. Plate 76, p. 344. Oepth about 6. D 30-32. A 20-23. Colour somewhat variable, angular bars always characteristic. Attains 3.i ins. Known from isolated places over a wide area of the tropical Indo-Pacific, probably not rare, but diffi¬ cult to spot and catch. Not uncommon among stones in Delagoa Bay. 957. OMOBRANCHUS .JAPONICUS (Bleeker). [Petroscirtes Japonicus.] Literature L 86, 332, 711. Plate 76, p. 344. Depth 5i. D XI-XII 21 22 or D 32-34, as spines are feeble. A 23-25. Attains 3 ins. Widespread but rare in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay, abundant among stones, Ponte Maone. 958. O.MOBRANCHUS ELONCiATUS (Peters). [Petroscirtes elongatus.] Literature L 4, 221, 248, 317 711. Depth 6J. D 32. A 24. Fins uniformly low. Lower canines twice size of upper, not large. Caudal emar- ginate. Snout rounded. Uniform greenish, a light-edged dark spot on opercle. Dorsal and anal with light lines. A dark spot between 23rd-25th dorsal rays in males. Attains 4 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, recorded from Mozam¬ bique, possibly not different from No. 956. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Petroscirtes Ruppell, genotype Petroscirtes mitratus Rupp. Gill-opening small, entirely above pec¬ toral base. Lower canines fairly large, upper small. Interorbital narrow, less than eye. A few Indo-Pacific forms, 1 in our area. 959. PF/FROSCIR FES .MrrR.A TL'S Ruppell. [Petroscirtes harhatus Pet.] Literature L 4, 151, 248, 317, 694, 711. I’late 74, p. 339, male and female. Depth about 3]. D 25-27. A 16-18. 3 pelvic rays. Colours vivid and variable. Attains 3 ins. Recorded from localities over an enormous area of the tropical Indo-Pacific, probably much more widespread, but not known as it hides with great skill against rocks and in sand. Timid, but with care may be seen to leave the water and seek food, crawling and hopping about. Soon after emerging the colours fade, but flash up again on return to the water. Not uncommon about Delagoa Bay. 31 346 BONY FISHES— Family SALARIIDAE Genus Dasson Jordan & Hubbs, genotype Aspidontus trossulus J. & S. Gill-opening small, entirely above pectoral base. Lower canines large. Interorbital as w'ide as eye. A number of Indo- Pacific fishes, living mainly among weeds, I in our area. 960. D.4SSON VARIABIl.lS (Cantor). [Petroscirtcs variahUis or cynodon Pet.] Literature L 4, 202. 248, 328, 414, 694, 711. Plate 82, p. 3.39. Depth about 5. D 28-32. A 17-21. 3 pelvic rays. Colour varies, usually marbled, sometimes stripes more vivid. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon in Delagoa Bay. reaches Natal. An unmistakable fish. Teeth pene¬ trate lingers easily. Genus .Aspidontus Quoy & Gaimard, genotype Aspidontus locniaius Q. & G. Lower canines large, curved. Gill-opening extends down before pectoral base. Interorbital greater than eye. About a dozen Indo-Pacific species, 3 in our area, easily distinguished. 961. .ASPIDONTUS FILAMENTOSUS (Cuvier). [BIcnnechis or Feiroscirtes filamcniostis.] Literature L 4, 43, 162. 317, 527, 694, 711. Previously wrongly identified as Aspidontus tacniatus Q. & G. Plate 21, p. 203. Depth about 6. D 36-38. A 25-28. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, nowhere abundant, reaches Natal south coast, rare in our area. A shapely and beautiful agile small fish which swims with sinuous grace, not easy to catch. 962. ASPIDONTUS RHINORHYNCHOS (Bleeker). [Petroscirtcs rhinorhynclios.] Literature L 4. 54. 205, 248, 317. 527, 694, 711. Plate 21. p. 203. Depth 6-8. D 44-46. A 30-32. Attains 4 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay. among weeds, rare in our area. 963. .ASPIDONTUS T.APEINOSOM.A (Bleeker). [Petroscirtcs tapcinosonui.] Literature L 72, 248, 613, 711. Plate 21. p. 203. Depth about 9. D 45-47. A 30-32. Attains 4 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Port Alfred. East London, and Delagoa Bay. .A beautiful creature, not anywhere abundant. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Xiphasia Swainson. genotype the single species. Very elongate eel-like body, caudal with central filaments. Large canines in lower jaw. Gill-opening small. 964. XIPH.ASIA SETIEER Swainson. Literature L 14. 173, 328, 580, 711. Plate 82, p. 359. Depth more than 25. D about 125. A about 110. Sometimes yellow, darker with age. Widespread in the topical Indo-Pacific, frequents reefs, often in deep water. Reaches as far south as Durban. Ordinarily stated to grow to 24 ins., but pearl divers of the tropical Pacific describe an eel-like creature several yards long much like this species. This they fear greatly, as it is said to attack with great ferocity, and once the great fangs are buried in a man he cannot escape, and drowns. Family SALARIIDAE SKIPPERS: ROCKHOPPERS Smooth elongate body without scales. Dorsal fin along most of the back, spines if present only feeble. Anal spines at most feeble, in males sometimes covered in spongy tissue. Pelvics far forward, reduced. Mostly tentacles above the eyes, often also on the nape. Teeth fine, feeble, mostly not implanted in the jaw, but in the lips, freely movable. Intestinal canal long and convoluted. Characteristic small fishes of shallow tropical waters, most abundant in the Indo-Pacific, mainly about reefs. Many leave the water freely, and hop about the rocks 1 PLATE 77 977. Cirrhiharhis capensis, 5 ins. 984. Petraites wooc/i, 5 ins. 986 agilis, ins. 989. Ophihalmolophii s aiine, 4 ins. Cliniix xiiperciliosiis, 6 ins. 988. Ophihcilmolophus Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES -Family SALAMI/ DAE 347 and reefs for quite long periods. On tropical reefs as one walks between the pools they jump ahead like a cloud of grasshoppers, while the larger species can cover several yards in one hop and are difficult to capture. These fishes feed mainly by scraping marine growth from the rocks, whereby they secure also eggs and many small creatures. They are carnivorous only by opportunity. All are adepts at concealment, but are generally bolder than most other fishes of the rock pools. If pursued in a pool they do not hesitate to leap right out of the water and away. They are remarkable in being almost unaffected by powerful detonations which kill or stun most other fi.shes. Differentiation is largely by colour and pattern, and as these fade after death, it is no easy task to sort out the various forms in preserved material and “artificial” species have been created. Most species are illustrated here, so even the amateur should have little difficulty with fresh specimens. In many cases it is easy to distinguish the sexes, some males having balls of spongy tissue on the anal spines, or a fleshy crest on the head. As far as is known these characters have apparently no direct function in reproduction. 13 genera recognised, only 5 in our area. A. A line of fine cirri acro.ss the nape . Cirripeclus (965-966) B. No cirri across the nape. 1. Roots of teeth hidden by a bony ridge . Antenmhlennius (967-968) 2. Roots of teeth not so hidden. {a) Pel vies 12 . Sahrias (969) (b) Pelvics I 3 4. (i) Tentacle above eye simple . Alticops (970-972) (ii) Tentacle above eye fringed . Halmahlennius (973-976) Genus Cirripectus .Swainson, genotype Salarias variolosus Cuv. Rather heavy bodied hoppers, with a tentacle above each eye, characterised by a line of fine filaments each side continuous across the nape. A number of Indo-Pacific species, 2 in our area. A. Tentacle above eye .simple . kosiensis (965) B. Tentacle above eye fringed . gihhifrons (966) 965. CIRRIPKCTU.S KOSIENSIS (Regan). [Salarias kosiensis.] Rockhopper. S'Gao (Monkey, native name). Literature L 4, 19, 21, 43, 52, 711. Plate 75, p. 342. Depth about 3]. D XI Xll 11-12. All 12-14. Canines in lower Jaw. Always rather mottled and marbled. Attains 9 ins. So far found only from Durban to Beira. An ugly but agile creature, fairly abundant in weedy tide-pools, not easily seen, difficult to capture, as it does not hesitate to leave the water, and covers 5-6 ft. in each rapidly-repeated leap. %6. C IRRIPECTUS GIBBIFRONS Smith. Literature L 86. Fig. 966. CIRRIPECTUS GIBBIFRONS Smith. Actual length 3 ins. Depth about 3]. D Xll 15. All 15. Brownish, marbled and barred. Only one specimen 3 ins. long found at Delagoa Bay. 348 BONY FISHES Family SALARUDAE Genus Antcnnabiciinius Fowler, genotype Blennius hypeiietes Klunz. A pair of rather long tentacles on the nape before the dorsal tin, nasal tentacles present, none above eye. A bony ridge concealing roots of teeth. Teeth stronger than is usual in this family. 3 Indo-Pacifie forms, 2 in our area, easily distinguished by the nasal tentacles alone. %7. .4NTENN.\B1,ENNIUS BIEILUM (Gunther). [Blennius hifiluni. Salurias sexjcisciatus von B.) Hopper. Literature L 4. 47, 248, 711. Plate 76, p. 344. Depth about 5. D XI XII 17-20. A 19-23. No canines. Attains 4 ins. Found only in our area from Port Alfred to Beira. mostly in rock pools. A lovely small hsh, mostly with iridescent pearly blue spots on the body, impossible to portray. 968. ANTENNABLENNIUS HYPENE'LES ( Klunzingcr). [BIcimius or Salaricts hypenetes.] Blenny. Hopper. Literature L 4. 580, 711. Plate 76, p. 344. Depth about 41. D XII 18-20. A 20 23. Males with crest. Attains 3 ins. Found only on the east coast of Africa, from Natal to the Red Sea, also at Zanzibar, mostly in rock pools, easy to catch, attempts to escape by remaining immobile in crevices. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Salarias Cuvier, genotype BIcnnius fasciatus Bloch. 2 tentacles on the nape, short nasal tentacles. Dorsal fin not notched. Roots of teeth not hidden by a bony ridge. Pclvics I 2. Only 4 species, 1 in our area. 969. SALARI.AS EUSCUS Ruppell. Literature L 161, 267, 694, 711. Depth about 3, body compressed, deep at belly. Snout blunt. 2 tentacles on nape, and I above eye small, simple. D 29-31. A 19 21. Last dorsal and anal rays sometimes elongated reach near end of caudal. No canines. Uniform dark, caudal and pectoral yellow, the latter sometimes dark. Attains 4 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Paeific, has been recorded from Natal, rare in our waters, possibly a malidcntification. Genus .\lticops Smith, genotype Salarias periophthalmiis Cuvier. Elongate rock-skippers, with roots of teeth not hidden. Pelvic 1 3- 4. Tentacle above eye simple. No teeth on vomer. A moderate number of Indo- Pacific species, 4* in our area, not easily distinguished in preserved material. Males usually with crest on head. A. Canines in lower jaw . periop/iihalmiis (910) B. No canines. 1. Red spotted ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... eilcntuliis (91\) 2. Not red spotted... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... orr'.v (972) 970. .VLTICOPS PERIOPH ril.VLMUS (Cuvier). [Salarias periophthahnus or deani J. & S.] Rock Skipper. Hopper. Literature L 4, 88, 162, 328, 527, 580, 694, 711. Plate 75, p. 342. Depth about 5. D XII 20-21. A 21 23. Small curved canines in lower jaw. Rosy green, with 5 7 violet-brown cross-bars, divided and red below. 2 rows of pearly blue bars along side, sometimes also blue spots. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo- Pacific, about reefs and rocks, has been recorded from Durban. One of the most agile of this group, jumps and skips freely. A charac¬ teristic and easily recognised species. Fig. 970. ALTICOPS PERIOPHTHALMLS iCuv.). After Day. 971. .4LIICOPS EDENTL’LL'S Bloch. [Salarias edciitidi/s.] Rockskipper. Hopper. Literature L 19, 88, 127, 162, 248, 267, 694. Plate 75, p. 342. Depth about 4], D XIII-XIV 19-21. A 23-24. Colour variable, mostly red spotted. Attains 4.1 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been recorded from Natal. Rare in our area. * For 970a, see Appendix, p. 503, and Plate 75. 978. CUmacoporns noYulis, .7 ins. 979. taiiriis, 6 ins. 983. tilennionuiniis PLATE 78 Miirdeiwclimis dorsalis. 3 ins. 980. Blemwphis anaiiilluris. 8 ins. 982. lilcimiominms cuiiouies, 4 ins. 985. Reiraites hrevicrisiatits\ 3^ ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family SALARUDAE 349 *)'72,, AIHICOI S ORYX (Cuvier). [Scilciricis or [stihlcniiius ovyx or rivulcttus Rupp. Synonymy involved.] Hopper. Literature L 4, 47, 88, 151, 328, 694, 711. Plate 75, p. 342. Depth about 4.j. D XII-XIII 20-22. A 22-24. Small tentacles on nape. Colour variable, usually with 7-8 pairs of brownish cross-bars, spots and lines on fins. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo- Pacific, penetrates as far south as Pondoland. Lives mainly in rock pools, quite common in parts, an agile hopper, difficult to catch. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Fialmablennius Smith, genotype Salarias unicolor Rupp. Elongate rockskippers, with roots of teeth not hidden. Pelvics 1 3-4. Tentacle above eye fringed. No teeth on vomer. A difficult group when only pre.served material is handled, as colours and markings fade. Large numbers of specimens are needed and this is not easy as many are so agile as to be difficult to capture. Our records are mostly of doubtful validity. Many species have been described but some are almost certainly “artificial”. 5 species recorded from our area. The key below is only a broad guide. C. Dorsal count 26-30. (See Appendix, p. 503 for No. 973a), also . unicolor (973) B. Dorsal count 31-36. 1. No canines. 2 species distinguished by markings . meleagris (974) dussumieri (975) 2. Small canines in lower jaw ... ... . ... ... ... ... oortii (976) 973. HAI.MABI.ENNIUS UNICOLOR (Ruppell). [Salarias unicolor.] Hopper. Literature L 19 88 161, 248, 328, 711. Plate 75, p. 342. Depth about 5. D XII-XIII 17-18. A 18-19. A fringed tentacle above eye. No canines. Males with crest. Brownish, mottled and marbled, blue spots on head and body. Attains 5 ins. An Indian Ocean form known from Natal northwards. 974. HALMABLENMUS MELEACRIS (Cuvier). [Salarias nu'leoi'ris.] Hopper. Literature L 4, 55, 88, 162, 317, 527, 71 1. Depth about 4.1. D XII 20-21. A 22-23. Snout blunt. Fringed tentacle above eye. No canines. Margin of lips finely scalloped. Males with skinny crest. Attains 6 ins. An Indo-Pacific species once recorded from Natal. Probably an error, specimen likely No. 975. Fig. 974. HAL.MABLESNIUS StELEAGRIS (Cuv.). After Gunther. 975. H.AI.M.ABLEN.NILS DL’SSUMIERI (Cuvier). [Salarias dussumieri. Synonymy doubtful and involved.] Rockskipper. Literature L 4, 19, 43, 88, 162, 328, 711. Plate 74. p. 339, male and female. Fig. 97.S. HALMABLEXMLS DUSSUMIERI (Cuv.). Male. Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 41. D XII-XIII 20-23. A 22-26. No canines. In our area colour and markings fairly constant. Attains 7 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, abundant as far south as Zululand, reaches East London. A characteristic species, whose solemn heads protrude from beneath stones, vanish at the least movement, but soon reappear. When chased these fishes hop out of the water and away. They feed by scraping fine growth from the rocks with the comb-like teeth, and move slowly forwards over one area. 350 BONY FISHES—Family CLINIDAE 976. HALMABLENNIUS OORTIl (Bleeker). [Salarias ooriii.] Literature L 4, 248, 275, 383, 694, 71 1 Depth 6-7. D Xl-XIl 19-22. A 21-24. Profile blunt. A fringed tentacle above the eye. By some workers stated to have small canines in the lower jaw, others say not. Stated to occur in the central Indo- Pacific, recorded from Natal. Likely identical with No. 975. Family CLINIDAE KLIPFISHES; KLIPVISSIES: ROCKIES Rather elongate body, with a long dorsal fin composed of many spines and a few soft rays along most of the back, originating on the head. Sometimes the first 3 spines form an elevated crest, occasionally quite separate- Scales small or absent. A fringed tentacle or a papilla over the eye may be present. These small fishes are charac¬ terised mainly by an up-turned hook-like projection on the inner margin of the shoulder girdle, visible when the operculum is lifted. Males have an intromittent organ for copulation. Viviparous, large numbers of young being born August-October. Colour usually vivid, often brilliant, blending well with the environment, hence variable in shade and often even in pattern. Fishes mainly of shallow water, intertidal or about low tide mark, living mainly among weed or under stones, a few penetrating deeper water, while some enter and live in estuaries. They are fascinating denizens of the rock pools, not very timid, and arc able to crawl over the rocks under the water by means of the limb-like pelvic fins. In some species the eyes appear to be capable of independent movement, like those of the chameleon, and the attitude of some species reminds one of that creature. Some are most agile, and to escape capture do not hesitate to leave the water, and wriggle or jump over the rocks. ■All are carnivorous, and bite freely at baited hooks, the larger species atfording good sport for the juvenile angler. The flesh is of epicurean delicacy. Clinids occur mainly in the Southern Hemisphere, on the coasts of South America and Australia also. Our 28 species are all peculiar to South Africa, with highest concentration between False Bay and East London. A few species extend up the west coast, and a few up the east coast at least as far as Inhambane, one species, hererodon C. & V., extending over virtually the whole region. 16 genera in our region, divided into 3 groups, the CLININAE. with a tentacle above the eye, the MYXODINAE, with no tentacle above the eye, and the XENOPOCLININAE with a papilla above the eye. Those without tentacles above the eye often have brilliant silvery patches on the body, especially the young. CLININAE. A fringed tentacle above the eye. A. Snout and chin with barbels B. No barbels on chin or snout. 1. Only 1 soft dorsal ray. (a) Lateral line pores all double ... (h) Only front lateral line pores double... 2. More than 1 soft dorsal ray. (a) Body elongate, depth 6-8. Cheeks scaly . (h) Depth 3-5. Cheeks not scaly (i) Strong bony ridge above eye (ii) At most feeble ridge above eye. (.v) 1st 3 dorsal spines form distinct crest on head, with marked notch between 3rd and 4th spines. (a) Membrane from 3rd spine barely reaches base of 4th (,5) Membrane from 3rd spine clearly attached to 4th ... (_v) No crest, or, if 1st 3 dorsal spines elevated, no notch Cirrkiharhis CUmacoporu.'; Muraenodinus (977) (978) (979) Blennophis (980 -981) Blenniomimus (982-983) Betraites CHnus (984-985) (986-987) between 3rd and 4th spines MYXODINAE. No tentacle above eye, iridescent pearly spots often on body. A. Hindermost dorsal spine short, causing deep notch before the soft rays ... B. No notch in dorsal before soft rays. 1. No teeth on vomer. (fl) Dorsal originates close behind eye. No notch between 3rd and 4th spines (h) Dorsal originates well behind eye, deep notch between 3rd and 4th spines . . . Ophihahnolophus (988-993) Blennioi'/inus (994 995) Myxocies Fucomimus (996) (997) BONY FISHES -Family CLINIDAE 351 2. Teeth on vomer. (a) 1st dorsal spine distinctly longer than 4th, front 3 spines forming a crest. (i) Dorsal crest separate (ii) Membrane from 3rd spine well connected up 4th ... (h) 1st dorsal spine not or hardly longer than 4th. No marked crest. (i) Lateral line of single tubules (ii) Lateral line of double pores alternately above and below ... XENOPOC'l.lNlNAE. A papilla above eye ... lujhrociinus (998-999) Pavoclinus (1000-1001) Gynutoclinus ( 1 002 ) dinoporus ( 1 003) X enopocHnus ( 1 004) .SPECIAL NL.MERICAL KEY TO THE CLINIDAE Beginners sometimes find long scientific keys troublesome, so that with the Clinids this numerical key may provide a short-cut. Species found in the cold water from the Cape northwards are marked with a dagger (f). fhose found from the Cape to East London are shown in bold type. Those from East London north-eastwards are marked with an asterisk (*). Every species is illustrated, but expect variation in markings. Dorsal Dorsal Species Dorsal Dorsal Species rays. spines. number. rays. spines. number. 1 33-37 978* 6 27 994* 1 43 46 979t* 6 28 994*, 996 2 .30-35 I ()()() 6 29 996 2 36 37 989t 6 30 984*, 996. 1001 +* 2 .39 41 99(1 6 31 982, 984*, 99 1+, 1001+* 2 41 44 981 6 32 982, 983*. 984*, 986+*, 9911,1001+* 3 25-27 997 6 33 982. 983*, 986+*, 99 I t, I001+* 3 30-35 988, 1000 6 34 982. 983*. 986+*, 992*, 1001+* 3 36-37 989t 6 35 982. 983*, 986+*, 992* 3 38 1003 6 36 983*, 986+*, 992* 3 39 40 990, 1003 6 37 986+*, 992* 3 41 981, 990. 1003 6 38-39 986+* 3 42 -44 981 6 40-42 977+, 986+* 3 48- .50 980- 6 43-45 977+ 4 25-27 997 7 27-28 994* 4 29-31 999* 7 31-32 986+*. 991 4 32 983*. 999* 7 33 986+*, 991+ 4 33 983* 7 34 986+*. 992*. 1004+ 4 .34-35 983*, 988 7 35-37 986+*. 992*. 998* 4 36 983*, 989 r 7 38-39 986+* 4 37 989+ 7 40-42 977, 986+* 4 48-50 980+ 7 43-45 977+ 5 28 996 8 30 1002+ 5 29 996, 999* 8 32-34 986+* 5 30 984*, 996, 999*. 1001+* 8 35-37 986+*, 998* 5 31 982, 984*. 99 1+. 999*. I(M)1+* 8 38-39 986+* 5 32 982, 983*. 984*. 986+*. 99 1+. 999*. 8 40-42 977+. 986+* 1001 +* 8 40-45 977+ 5 33 982. 98.3*. 986+*. 99 1+. 1001 +* 9 26-30 995* 5 34 982, 983*, 985, 986+*, 1001+* 9 32 986+*, 987 5 35 982, 983*, 986+* 9 33 986+*, 987 5 36 983*, 986+* 9 34 986t*, 987, 993 5 37-39 986+* 9 35-42 986+* 5 40-42 977+, 986+* 10 26-30 995* 5 43-45 977+ 10-14 32-34 987 352 BONY FISHES- Family CUN! DAE Genus Cirrliibarbis Cuvier, genotype Cirrhiharhis capensis Cuv. Snout and chin with barbels. A tentacle over eye. Cheek and opercle scaly. One species. 977. CIRRHIBARBIS CAPENSIS C uvier. [CHnus capensis.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Literature L 19, 43, 85, 162. Plate 77, p. 347. Depth 5-51 t) XL-XLIV 5-8. A II 27-34. V I 3, inner ray minute. Lateral line double pores anteriorly, about 30 in front part. 3 barbels on snout, 8 on chin. Lips thick. Colour variable, mottled, often with milky iridescence, sometimes cross-bars. Attains 15 ins. An agile fish, found mainly in rock pools from Port Nolloth to East London, sometimes in deeper water, not at all uncommon but difhcult to find. Kig. 977. l- ront of head of Cl K RH /HA RtilS C.M’ENS/S Cuv. Genus Climacoporus Barnard, genotype Clinuicoporus luiva/is Brnrd. A tentacle over eye. Only I soft dorsal ray. Lateral line of double pores throughout. One species. 978. CLIM.\COPORUS N.W .\LIS Barnard. Klipfish. Klipvis. Literature L 6, 72, 85. Plate 78, p. 349. Depth 5|. D .XXXIll-XXXVIl 1. A II 22-24. V I 3, inner ray minute. About 80 double pores in lateral line. Colour variable, usually as shown. Attains 3 ins. First found among barnacles on a ship’s bottom in Simonstown, is quite abundant from Port Alfred to Port St. Johns, but is agile and cunning, easily escapes capture. Looks very like the commoner No. 979. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Muraenoclinus Smith, genotype Cliniis ilorsalis BIkr. Lateral line of single tubules posteriorly, double anteriorly. A tentacle over eye. Only I soft dorsal ray. One species. 979. MLR.\E\OCLINl’S DORS.kI.IS (Bleeker). {CUnus dorsalis.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Literature L 43, 85. 88. 245. Plate 78, p. 349. Depth 5-6i. D XLllI-XLVl 1. A II 25-28. V I 2. Front part of lateral line 15 alternating double pores. Colour usually green or brown. Attains 4 ins. Swakopmund to the Natal south coast, usually under stones, difficult to capture, agile as an eel. even crawls out of the water, very clever at hiding in crevices. Abundant. Genus Blennuphis Swainson, genotype Clinus angiiillaris C'uv. Elongate body. Cheeks scaly. ,'\ tentacle over eye. Lateral line of double pores anteriorly. 2 species. A. 3rd pelvic ray stout, obvious . anpuiUaris (\0(sl) B. 3rd pelvic ray minute . ,s7/7r//i/.v ( 1068) 980. BLENNOPHIS .\.N'(;L'ILL.4RIS (C. & V.). [CUnus an^uil/ari.s.] Slaiigetjie. Kapitcin. Literature L 19, 43, 85, 162. Plate 78, p. 349. Depth 6.y-7J. D XLVIIl-L 3-4. A II 33-36. V I 3, inner ray stout. 20-24 double pores in front part of lateral line. Colour variable, sometimes mottled and marbled. Attains 12 ins. Occurs from Port Nolloth to East London, under stones at low water mark, not anywhere abundant. The young are eel-like, usually almost black, with the margins of dorsal, anal, and caudal red. PLATE 79 991, Oplirlut/iiio/np/iu.'i aciiiiiiitaliis, 4 ins. 992. Ophihaliuolophus helenae, 2 ins. 994. Blennioclinii.<; .'ilella. 2h ins. 995. BlenniocHnus brachycepluiliis, left, juvenile at I in., right at 5 ins. 997. Fiicontinuis mus, 3i ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family CUNIDAE 353 981. BLENNOPHIS STRIATUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). {Clinus striatus.] Literature L 43, 85. Depth 6.]-7. D XLI-XLIV 2-3. A II 28-31. V I 3, inner ray minute. 22 double pores in front part of lateral line. Usually red or green, with lighter lines along the body, and a white stripe from snout to dorsal. Attains 7 ins. From False Bay to East London, under stones, not often seen. Genus Blenninmimus Smith, genotype Clinus taurus G. & T. Very blunt snout, deeply concave between eyes. A transverse groove behind eyes. Lateral line double pores in front. A tentacle over eye. Rather like Blennies in appearance. 2 species. A. A notch between 3rd and 4th dorsal spines ... ... ... ... ... ... taurr/.y (982) B. No notch 3rd to 4th dorsal spine ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... cottoicles (9ii3) 982. BI.ENNIOMIMLS IWL'RUS (Gilchrist & Thompson.) [Clinus taurus.] Bully. Bull Rocky. Litera¬ ture L 43, 85. Plate 78, p. 349. Depth 3i 4. D XXXI XXXV 5-6, deeply notched 3rd-4th spine. A II 21-24. V 1 2-3, inner ray when present minute. About 20 double pores in front part of lateral line. Colour variable according to environment, also green, brown, milky, usually cross-bars, fins brightly tipped. Attains 8 ins. From False Bay to Port Alfred, not abundant. 98.3. BLEN.MOMIMUS COi rOIDE.S (Cuvier). [CHnus colioides.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Bully. Rocky. Literature L 19, 43, 85, 162. Plate 78, p. 349. Depth 4-5. D XXXII XXXVI 4-6. A II 21-24. V I 2-3, inner ray when present minute. About 20 double pores in front part of lateral line. Colour variable, but round blotch on opercle, dark curved mark on pectoral base, and 2 dark lines on cheek almost invariable. Attains 8 ins. From Port Nolloth to the Kei River, in shallow water, most abundant in some areas, in some parts the commonest Clinid, and not difficult to catch. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Petraitcs Ogilby, genotype Petraitcs heptaeolus Ogilby. A crest on the head separate from the rest of the dorsal, with clusters of cirri at the tips of the spines. .A fringed tentacle over the eye. Lateral line with double pores in front. 2 species, easily distinguished. 984. PE I R.\n ES VVOODI Smith. Rocky. Rainbow Fish. Literature L 85. Plate 77, p. 347. Depth 3J. D III - XXVIII 5-6, crest lower in females. A II 22. V 1 2. 20 double pores in front part of lateral line. A beautiful fish, variable in shades but mostly of the same pattern. .Attains 6 ins. Occurs from the Kei River to beyond Delagoa Bay, among weeds at and below low tide mark, not uncommon, easily taken on small hooks with shrimp bait at low tide. 985. PETR.AITES BRE3 ICRIST.ATUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Clinus hrevicristatus.] Literature L 43, 85. Plate 78, p. 349. Depth 4. Dill - XXXI 5, crest no higher in males. A II 23. V 1 3, inner ray minute. 20 double pores in lateral line. Attains 3.} ins. A curiously localised species so far found only in False Bay, from Kalk Bay to Simonstown. Rare, more specimens wanted. 354 BONY FISHES- Family CLINIDAi: Genus Clinus Cuvier, genotype CUnus siiperciliosu.s Linn. A crest of the 3 (ront dorsal spines not lully detached. A tentacle over the eye. 2 species, one abundant, the other rare. A. 2 pelvic rays . superciliosus (986) B. 3 pelvic rays ... . robustus (987) 986. CLINUS SLIPERCILIOSUS (Linnaeus). [Clhnis ornatu.s G. & T.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Rocky. Literature L 19, 43, 85, 162, 655. Plate 77, p. 347. Depth 3i~4J. D XXXII XLIl 5-9, crest markedly shorter in females. In breeding males the head often appears humped, and the dorsal to originate close over the eye. formerly regarded as a distinct species, ornatus G. & T. (see Fig. 986). A II 24 30. V I 2. L.l. line with 25 feeble mainly double pores in front part. Colour most variable according to environment, almost always a crook¬ shaped mark on opercle, and a dark blotch on crest. Attains 12 ins. One of the most abundant Clinids, found in tide-pools, under stones, among weed, e.xtends to deeper water, and enters estuaries, living among weed. Variable also in shape, is sometimes a puzzle. Occurs from Swakopmund to the Kei. 987. CLINUS ROBUSTUS Gilchrist & Thomp.son. Klipfish. Klipvis. Literature 1. 19, 43, 85. Plate 81, p. 357. Depth 3J-4.L D XXXll XXXIV 9-14. low crest, with a few flat filaments at apex. A II 27-28. V I 3, inner ray well developed. Lateral line of mainly single tubules throughout. Lips markedly corrugated. Mottled green or green-brown, with obscure cross-bars, fins barred or spotted. Attains 20 ins. .So far found from the Cape to Port .Alfred, not abundant. Provides good sport off rocky ledges in deepish water. (lood eating. Genus Ophthalmolophus Gill, genotype Clinus laiipinnis C. & V. No crest, dorsal low in front, at most a feeble notch between 3rd and 4th spines. A tentacle over the eye. 6 species. •A. 2-4 soft dorsal rays. 1. 34-35 dorsal spines 2. 36-37 dorsal spines 3. 39-41 dorsal spines B. 5-7 soft dorsal rays. 1 . 31-33 dorsal spines 2. 34-37 dorsal spines C. 9 soft dorsal rays Ui^ilis (988) anne (989) venustris (990) (u uminatus (991) helenae (992) lutipennis (993) Fig. 986. CUNUS SUUiRCU.lOSUS (Finn.). Head o( "onuiius'' male, from fish of total length H ins. PLATE 80 999. Lobrodinus /aurenlii, 6 ins. 1001. Ptnoclinin heterodon. .^-colour patterns, top and bottom 5 ins., middle, 3 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES — Family CLIN ! DAE 355 [CHnus ciffUis.] KlipHsh. Klipvis. Literature L 59, 85. 9SS. OPHTHALMOEOPHUS AGIEIS (Smith) Plate 77, p. 347. Depth 4-5. D XXXIV XXXV 3-4, membrane of front spines notched, deepest 3rd-4th spines. A ii 21-24 V I 2—3, inner ray when present minute. Lateral line of single tubules. Attains 3 ins. So far found only among sea-grass (Zostera) in the Knysna estuary, and not abundant. 989. OPHTHAI..VIOIX)PML'S ANNE Smith. Literature L 87. Plate 77, p. 347. Depth about 4;,’. D XXXVI-XXXVIl 2-4. A II 23. 20 double pores anteriorly in L.l. A slight notch between 3rd and 4th dorsal spines. Brown to grey-green with 7 8 dark cross-bars. Attains 3.’, ins. Closely relatecj to No. 9H8. Swakopmund to near the Cape, not uncommon in pools at low tide mark. 9«>(). OPH I IIAI.MOI.OPHUS VENU.STRES (Gilchrist & Thompson). [CHnus venustris.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Literature L 43, 85. Kig. 990. OrUTHALMOLOPHUS VENUSTRIS (G. & T.). Actual length 4J ins. I3epth 4-4i. D XXXIX XLI 2-3, 2nd and 3rd spines sometimes elongate, but no notch 3rd-4th spine. A 11 24-27. V I 2. Lateral line with 25-26 double pores in front. Variably mottled green, red, blue, and lighter. Attains 6 ins. From False Bay to Port Alfred, rare. S>9E OPH IIEAE.MOEOPHUS .ACU.MIN.ATUS (Cuvier). [CHnus acuminatus.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Litera¬ ture l_ 43, 85, 162. Plate 79, p. 352. [Depth 4-5. D XXXI XXXIIl 5-7. A II 21-23. V I 2-3, inner ray when present minute. Lateral line of single tubules. Colour somewhat variable, mostly with cross-bars. Attains 5 ins. Swakopmund to the Cape Peninsula, abundant, in pools under stones. *D92. OPM I H.AE.MOEOPHL’.S HE.EEN.AE Smith. Klipfish. Klipvis. Rockv. Literature L 85. Plate 79, p. 352. [Depth 4C ID XXXIV XXXVIl 6-7. A II 22-24. V I 2. 30-32 double pores in front part of lateral line. Attains 4 ins. From East London to the Bashee River, in shallow water under rocks. Not abundant. *>93. OPM I [iAI.\[OE()PML'S EA I IPENNIS (Cuvier). [CHnus latipennis.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Literature L 85. Fig. 993. OPHTHALMOEOPHUS LATIPENNIS (C. & V.). Actual length 4^ ins. Depth 4^. D XXXI V 9. A II 26. V 1 3, inner ray minute. 29 double pores in front part of lateral line. Probably green-brown, speckled, with cross-bars. Only one specimen available in South Africa, 4i ins. long, from False Bay. Reported also from Table Bay. Rare, specimens wanted. 356 BONY FISHES- Familv CUN ! DAE Genus BIcnnioclinus Gill, genotype Clinus brachycephalus C. & V. No tentacle over eye. A deep notch in dorsal fm in front of the soft rays. Anterior part of lateral line double pores. 2 species. A. 6-7 dorsal soft rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .s7e//a (994) B. 9-10 dorsal soft rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... hrachycepha/u.s (995) 994. BLENNIOeiJNUS SFEELA Smith. Literature L 85. Elate 79, p. 352. Depth 4J. D XXVI 1- XXVI 1 1 6-7, a deep notch between the 3rd 4th spines, and another before the solt rays. A II 19-20. V I 3. 23-25 double pores in front part of lateral line. Colour variable, mostly greenish. Brilliant pearly spots along side. The smallest of our Clinids, mature at li ins., attains 2 ins. From Kei River to Umtata River, in tide-pools under rocks, not uncommon, but an adept at concealment in crevices, also buries itself on its side in sand. 995. BLENNIOCITNES BRACHYCEPHAl.US (Cuvier & Valenciennes). [Clinus Imicliycep/uilus.] Kliptish. Klipvis. Literature L 43, 85, 162. Plate 79, p. 352, young and adult. Depth 4J-5. D XXVl-XXX 9-10, a deep notch 3rd 4th spines, and another before the soft rays. A II 23-25. V I 3, inner ray not separate. 35 double pores in front part of lateral line. Colour variable, but always brilliant, and blends well with the anemones, sea-urchins, etc., among which this fish lurks, .luveniles have bril¬ liant silvery patches along the side. Attains 6 ins. From Cape Point to the Kei River, under stones in tide-pools, quite plentiful in parts. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Myxodes Cuvier, genotype My.sodcs viru/is Cuv. No tentacle over eye. No teeth on vomer, those in jaws in only one series. Body highly compressed, caudal peduncle long. Lateral line of single tubules. 1 species in our area, others in South America. 996. MYXODES ELJCORIAI (Gilchrist & Thompson). [C/intis fuconnn.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Literature L 43, 85. Plate 81, p. 357. Depth 3i-4j. DXXVIll XXX 5-6, originates Just behind eye. All 19 21. V I 3, inner ray well developed. Mouth pug-like. Colour variable, sometimes brown or yellow, also with obscure mottlings and cro.ss-bars, an iridescent pearly spot under the pectoral. .Attains 12 ins. From False Bay to East London. A sluggish f'ish living among weeds. Rare. Genus Euconiinius Smith, genotype Clinus mus G. & T. No tentacle above eye. No teeth on vomer, 2 series in each jaw. Body highly compressed. Caudal peduncle long and slender. Lateral line of single tubules. One species. 997. FECOMIMUS MUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Clinus mus.] Kliptish. Klipvis. VVeedfish. Litera¬ ture L 43, 85. Plate 79, p. 352. Kig. 997. hLCOMIMUS MVS (G. & T.). .-Vctual length .t ins. Depth 3-3J. Dill XXII-XXIV 3-4. a separate low crest on head, not lower in females. Margin of dorsal undulate, fin with transparent patches. A 11 15-17. VI 3, inner ray well developed. Colour variable, red, green, or brown, with iridescent silvery patches. The young are usually reddish, with large silvery patches along the side. Attains 4 ins. From False Bay to the Kei River, abundant among weeds at and below low tide mark. Gravid females are often bloated and distorted. A curious lethargic species that makes little attempt to escape when caught, usually just writhes slowly. •■■ --w; '•■. >. ■ -i ,;'*■' •■' -. #:, -'-V L^^": _ * «i* A* — iT _ * PLATH 81 ^87. Clinus robustus, 13 ins. 9%. Myxodes fucorum^ 1 ins. 998, Lahroclinns mcnfa/is, above at 1 in., below, 9 ins. 1000. Pavoclinus pavo, 4 ins., 3 colour patterns. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family CLINIDAE 357 A. Lower lip with skinny flap B. Lower lip normal ... mentulis (998) /aurentii (999) 998. LABROCI.INUS MEN I ALIS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Clinu.s mentalis. Petraites mentalis.] Rain- Iwwfish (Transkei). Literature L 19, 43, 85. Plate 81, p. 357, juvenile and adult. Depth 4]-5. O 1II4-XXX11 XXXIIl 7-8, crest quite separate. A II 27-30. V I 3, inner ray well developed. Lower lip with projecting skinny flap, visible even in very young fishes. Scales overlapping. Most vivid and brilliant colouring, rather varied, aptly named “Rainbow-fish”. The young with brilliant silvery iridescent spots along body. Attains 12 ins. From Port Alfred to St. Lucia estuary, at and below low tide mark, mainly among weeds. Uncommon. 999. L.ABROCLINUS LAURKNTII (Gilchrist & Thompson), [dinus laurentii. Petraites laureiitii.] Rocky. Rainbowfish. Literature 1. 43, 67, 85. Plate 80, p. 354. Fig. 999. LAfiROCIJNUS LAURESTIt (G. & T.). Actual length 5 ins. Depth 4 4^. D 111 - XXVI-XXIX 4-5, crest quite separate. A II 20-22. V I 3, inner ray small. Scales overlapping on front half of body. Most variable, but beautiful and delicate colours and markings, brown, red, yellow, green, mottled and marbled. Attains 8 ins. From Port Alfred to Inhambane, at low tide mark in weeds, not uncommon in tide-pools, but adept at concealment. .A fish "freezing” against a weedy rock is all but invisible. Genus Pavoclinus Smith, genotype Ctinus paro G. & T. No tentacle over eye. Body fairly compressed. Dorsal crest not separated, 1st spine shorter than 2nd. Lateral line of single tubules. 2 species, variably and beautifully coloured. A. 2-3 dorsal soft rays . . ... ... pt/vo ( 1(X)0) B. 5-6 dorsal soft rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... heterodon (\00l) 1()(M). P.W OGI.IN'US P.AVO (Gilchrist & Thompson), [dinus pavo.] Literature L 43, 85. Plate 81, p. 357, 3 colour patterns. Depth 3o-4]. D .X.XX XXXV 2-3, crest not separate. A II 20-22. V I 3, inner ray moderate. Scales not overlapping. Colour varies in pattern and shades according to the environment. Those illustrated in Plate 81 were captured in difTerent coloured weeds within a patch 3 yards square. Some specimens are uniform, faintly milky yellow, with red or brown eye, others are mottled and variegated in the highest degree in the most brilliant hues. .Attains 6 ins. From False Bay to the Kei River, among weed at low tide mark, not uncommon. 1001. PAVOCLINUS HETERODON (C. & V.) [dinus heterodon. dinus graminis G. & T.] Klipfish. Klipvis. Rocky. Rainbowfish. Literature L 43, 67, 85. Plate 80, p. 354, 3 colour patterns. Depth 3J-4j. D XXX-XXXIV 5-6, crest not separate. A II 21-24. V I 3, inner ray well developed. Scales easily visible, overlapping. Colour variable according to the environment, usually in striking and variegated patterns. Attains 6 ins. Occurs from Port Nolloth right round our shores, at least as far as Inhambane. mainly in weed at low tide mark. An agile and abundant species. 32 358 BONY FISHES— Family CUN I DAE Genus Gynutoclinus Smith, genotype CUnus rotundijions Brnrd. No tentacle over eye. Snout rather blunt. No marked crest in dorsal. Lateral line of single tubules, obsolete posteriorly. Scales very small. One species. 1002. GYNUTOCLINUS ROTUNDIFRONS (Barnard). [CUnus rotundifrons.] Literature L 7, 85. Fig. 1(X)2. CYSUTOCUNUS ROTUNDH RONS (Itrnrd.). Actual length .U ins. Depth 3^ D ,XXX 8, no crest, but 2nd and 3rd spines longer than 1st and 4th. A II 22. VI 3: probably greenish or olive-green or brown in life. Only one female specimen, 3o ins. long, ever found near Camps Bay, Cape. More wanted. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Clinoporus Barnard, genotype CUnus hiporosus G. & T. No tentacle over eye. No dorsal crest. No scales. Lateral line of alternating branches above and below, opening each by a pore, ends in a single pore. One species. 1003. CLINOPORUS BIPOROSUS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [CUnus hiporosus.] Literature L 43, 85. Plate 82, p. 359. Depth 6-6L D XXXVIlUXLI 3, no crest. A 11 27-28. V 1 3. inner ray minute. No scales. More or less uniform red, brown or orange. Attains 5 ins. About the Cape Peninsula, extending to deeper water. Not common. Genus Xenopoclinus Smith, genotype the single species. ,A papilla above eye. Pelvic 3 rayed, resembling a webbed foot. A short low separate dorsal crest. 1004. XENOPOCLINUS KOCHI Smith. Literature L 87. Depth 5i. D IIL' XXXI 7. A II 31. 24 double pores in front of L.l. Head depressed and constricted in front. Yellow-green. Only 1 specimen ever found, in a tide-pool at Lamberts Bay. More wanted. PLATE 82. 960. Dasson variabilis, 4 ins. 964. Xiphasia setifer. \1 ins. 100.2. CUnoponts biporosus, 7< ins. \001 . Eniteuplerv^ius obliisirostre, 2 ins., above, female, below, male. 1010. Jorilanicus gracilis, 5 ins. 1011. Dcraialopsoiilcs kusougae, 3i ins. 1028. Haiidcsmus scapii/ans, 6 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES -Families TRIPTERYGiONTIDAE imd CARAPIDAE 359 Family TRIP I ERYGIOM IDAE Fairly robust body, with moderate sized scales, head naked or scaly. Snout fairly blunt. Mouth small, fine teeth in bands on Jaws, sometimes on vomer. 3 dorsal fins, the 1st of 3-4, the 2nd of 1 1 14 spines. Pelvics far forward, of I spine and 2 rays. Small rather feeble fishes, widespread, mostly in warm seas, shelter under stones. 2 genera in our area. A. Head scaly . Gillias (1005) B. Head naked . Enneaplerygius {\006-\001} Genus Gillias Evermann & Marsh, genotype Gillias jordani E. & M. Head and belly scaly. L.l. parallel with back, ends below 3rd dorsal, a few pores on peduncle lower down. A small tentacle above eye. Mainly tropical seas, a few species, I in our area. 1005. (ilEEIAS CAPENSIS (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Tripterygium capensis.] Literature L 4, 43. Depth about 3i’. D 1 V i XI V-t- 10-1 1 . A II 21-22. L.l. tubules 21-22, and 15-16 lower down. Tr. 5, 12. A fringed tentacle over eye. Scales on lower part of head and throat thickened. Profile blunt. Reddish, with irregular cross-bars. Attains 3 ins. So far found only in False Bay in 5-14 fathoms. (jcnus fmneaptcrygius Ruppell, genotype Enneaplerygius pusillus Rupp. Head and belly naked. L.l. not complete. A simple papilla on eye. Small fishes of tropical seas, 2 in our area. A. 1st dorsal higher than 2nd ... ... ... ... ... .■ .• pusillus (\Q06) H. I St dorsal lower than 2nd ... ... ... ... ... •• obtusirostre {\0Q1) 1006. ENNEAPTERYGIUS PUSILLUS Ruppell. Literature L 4, 19, 161, 580. Depth about 4. D III-FXI XII 8-10. A 16-18. 1st dorsal higher than 2nd. Small papilla over eye. Snout blunt, muzzle protrudes. Caudal rounded. 33 series of scales, only 7 tubules in L.l. Green or red, dark spots on head, a blue-margined dark stripe below eye. Attains I inch. Knowm from the Red Sea, once reported from Natal by an overseas worker, probably mistaken, more likely that he had the common No. 1007. 101)7. ENNEAPTERYGIUS OB'I USIROS'I RE Klunzinger. [Hekogramma obtusirostre.] Literature L 4, 19, 55, 580. Plate 82, p. 359, male and female. Depth about 4. D III XIII ■ 9 10, A I 18-20. 35 40 series of scales, L.l. of 20-22 tubules. Tr. 6/12. Small simple tentacle on eye. Colour somewhat variable. Lower part of head and pectoral base of males go black after death. Attains 2 ins. Found only on the tropical east coast of .Africa, abundant as far south as the Bashec. reaches East London. An agile small fish, found in rocky tide-pools, an adept at concealment and escape, so that even those who know the shore well may remain ignorant of their e.xistence. Family CARAPIDAE PEARL FISHES Slender cel-like body tapering to a point, without caudal. No scales. Mouth moderate, below a rounded snout, with fine teeth in jaws and on palate. Vent far forward below throat. No pelvics. Peculiar small fishes of warm seas which live (symbiotically) with and shelter within the cavities of live shellfishes, sea-cucumbers, and other marine creatures, which they enter tail first. The fishes go out in search of food, merely returning for shelter. It is possible that the sheltering organism derives some benefit from the e.xcreta of the fish, although the latter often lies with the head (and so the vent) protruding. These fishes are as often found sheltering in crevices in reefs and buried in sand. The eggs are Joined together in a lump of mucus and float at the surface. The larval young swim head downward, and have a long fringed filament on the head which possibly guides them to a suit¬ able sheltering organism. 2 genera. A. Upper Jaw exposed at side ... ... ••• ■ ■■ Cara/a/.v ( 1008-1009) B. Upper Jaw concealed by skin ... ... ... ... Jonlanicus (1010) 360 BONY FISHES Family BROTULIDAE Genus Carapus Ratinesc|ue, genotype Cyinnoms acus Brienn. Long body, no caudal. Pectorals present. Upper jaw free at side. Numerous species, 2 in our area, rare, hardly ever seen. A. Head 8 in total length . /wmtoto ( 1 008) B. Head 10 in total length . negkctus (\m9) 1008. C.ARAPUS PUNCT.A'FUS (Fisher). [Ficnisfer puncuaus.] Literature L 4, 362. Head length about 8 in total length. Teeth in a single row in Jaws and on palate. I long thin pointed tooth on vomer. Brownish with black spots. Attains 9 ins. Has been lound in sea-cucumbcrs in Mozambique waters. Rare. 1009. CAR.APL'S NECiLECTUS (Peters). [Ficni.sfer neyicctus.] Literature L 4, 221, 256. Head length about 10 in total length. Teeth in jaws and on palate in bands. 3 long thin curved teeth on vomer. Colour and length not known. Recorded from Mozambique in 1855. Not since seen. Genus Jordanicus Gilbert, genotype Fienisfcr umhnitiHs J. & F. Long body, no caudal. Pectorals present. Upper jaw mainly concealed by skin. I species in our area. {Ficmsfcr yracilis.] Literature L 4, 14. 15, 224, 256. Plate 1010. JORDANICUS GRACILIS (Bleeker). 82, p. 359. Head length about 10 in total length. Upper jaw mainly below skin. Teeth in a single row in each jaw and on palate, 4 on vomer slightly larger. Pale slaty blue. Attains 7 ins. An East Indian species which has been found off Natal in 120 fathoms. Family BROlULID.VE Rather elongate compre.ssed body, tapering posteriorly, naked, or with small cycloid scales. Moderate mouth, with small pointed teeth, usually in bands, often on palate also. Barbels sometimes present. Characterised by the absence of fin spines, by no or only feeble pseudobranchiae, and by the pelvics being reduced to a few rays, mostly jugular in position. Eyes sometimes feeble or even non-functional. Caudal mostly united with dorsal and anal, sometimes free. Rather curious .somewhat degenerate small fishes found in almost all seas, mostly in the depths, some along the .shore. Some live in deep caves, as in Cuba, and are blind. Many are vivi¬ parous. A few are of minor significance as food in some parts. Rare, and mostly from deep water in our area, they mean little to any but the scientist in South Africa. At least 50 genera reeognised, many monotypic 12 in our area. A. Caudal free from dorsal and anal. 1. Head naked. No lateral line . 2. Head naked. Lateral line interrupted B. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. 1. No scales 2. Scales present, may be obscure. (а) Barbels present ... (б) No barbels. (a) Lower pectoral rays free, elongate (>') No lower pectoral rays free or elongate. (a) L.l. absent (^) One lateral line. 1 spine on opercle. (i) Pelvics below eye . (ii) Pelvics below preopercle. * Pelvics each of 1 ray ... ** Pelvics each of 2 rays ... (iii) Pelvics below opercle margin ++ 2 spines on opercle ('/) 3 lateral lines . Di-nnatopsoicies (1011) Bidenichthys (1012) Barathronus (1013) Brotida (\0\4) Dicrolene (1015) Grammonoidcs (1016) Hoplohrolida (1017) Selachophidium (1018) Neohythites (1019) Calaetyx (1020) Diplacanthopoma (1021) Porogadus (1022) BONY FISHES- Family BROTULIDAli 361 Genus Dermatopsoides Smith, genotype the single species. Body with minute scales, head entirely naked. Caudal free from dorsal and anal. No L.l. Horny claspers present in male. Pectoral base not lobate. 1011. DERIVIATOPSOIDES KASOUGAE (Smith). {Dermatopsis kasout'ae.] Literature L 84. Plate 82, p. 359. Depth about S'f. D about 100. A about 85. 12-13 gill-rakers. No barbels. Pelvic of I ray. Male with horny claspers. Attains 3 ins. Scales invisible on live fish. So far found only from Port Alfred to Bushmans River, Cape, in rock pools. 1012. BIDENICHTHYS CAPENSIS Bar¬ nard. Literature L 5. Depth about 4.1. D about 65. A about 35. P 18-20. 4-5 gill-rakers plus some rudiments. Pelvics each of 2 fused rays. Attains 3 ins. So far known only from the Cape to East London, found in rock pools. Genus Bidenichthys Barnard, genotype the single species. Body scaly, head entirely naked. Caudal free. L.L in 2 parts, the lower on peduncle. No horny claspers. Pectoral base lobate. Fig. 1012. BIDENICHTHYS CAPENSIS Barnard. Actual length 3 ins. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Barathronus Goode & Bean, genotype Baruthronus hicolor G. & B. No scales. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. No L.l. Eyes rudimentary, covered by skin. Pelvics each of 1 ray. A few Atlantic species of deep water, I in our area. 1013. BARATHRONUS BICOLOR Goode & Bean. Literature L 30, 352, 394. Depth about 6. D about 70. A about 60. 5 fine canines each side of lower jaw, 3 on vomer. Dusky white, with 2 stripes along side of belly. Attains 5 ins. A West Indian species once found ofl' Cape Point in 650 fathoms. Fig. 1013. BARATHRONUS BICOLOR G. & B. .After Goode & Bean. Genus Brotula Cuvier, genotype Enchelyopus harhatus Bloch. Scales present. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. L.l. present, single. 12 barbels, 6 on snout, 6 on chin. Only 3 species, 1 in our area. 1014. BROTULA MULTIBARBATA Temminck & Schlegel. [Brotula palmietensis Smith.] Literature L 67. 718. Fig. 1014. BROTULA MULTIBARBATA T. & S. Left, length 9 ins. Right, juvenile at 2 ins. Depth about 6. D about 110. A about 90. L.l. about 150. 6-7 feeble gill-rakers. Fine teeth in jaws and on palate. Silvery dusky. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in our area as far south as Port Alfred, but rare in our waters. Taken on lines about reefs, is a good food-fish of some parts of the tropics. 362 BONY FISHES— Family BROTUUDAE Genus Dicrolene Goode & Bean, genotype the single species. Scales present. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. No barbels. L.l. present, incomplete. Pectoral with lower rays free, filamentous. Pelvics each of 2 rays. 1015. DICROLENE INTROMGER Goode & Bean. Literature L 4, 49, 35 1 , 379. .394, 420, 69.5. Depth 6-8. D about 100. A about 80. P 17-19. 7-9 free rays, longest about body length. Fine teeth in jaws, none on palate. L.l. about 130. Gill-rakers long and numerous. Dusky with pink reflections. Mouth and gill-ca\ity black. Attains 10 ins. Tropical Atlantic to 1.000 fathoms, also Indian Ocean, has been taken off the Cape in 700 fathoms. 1015 DICROl.llNE IM Alter Cioodc A ROMGER. Bean. (1. & B. Genus (iraniinoiioides Smith, genotype the single species. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. Scales minute, obscure. No L.l. Pelvics each of I ray. No barbels. No free pectoral rays. 1016. CiR.AMMONOIDES Ol’IS'l'HODON (Smith). [Gramntoiuis opisiliothn.] Literature L 63, 695. Fig. 1016. G R.4 M MOMOl DES OPtSTHO DON (Smith). Actual length 2 ins. Depth about 4. D 65. A 35. P 23. no free rays. 2 knobs on vomer, each with 2 teeth. Brownish. Known from only 1 specimen 2 ins. long from Port Alfred. Characterised by the spine on the mtixilhi. Genus Hoplobrotula Gill, genotype Broitila arnuna T. & S. Scales present, head naked. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. No barbels. No free pectoral rays. I l .l. F^elvics each of 2 rays, inserted below head. A few Indo-Pacific species. I in our area. 1017. HOPLOBROTULA GNATHOPUS Regan. Literature L 4, 39, 572, 695. Plate 87, p. 372. Depth about 6. D about 100. A about 80. 5 long gill-rakers plus 8 10 knobs. Fine teeth in jaws, also on palate. Attains 15 ins. Found only in 100 300 fathoms olT Natal. Probably the same as lloplohroliila annata (Schlegel) from .lapan. Genus Selaehophidium Gilchrist, genotype the single species. Head and body sc;dy. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. Fine teeth in jaws and on palate. No barbels. No free pectoral rays. Pelvics each of 1 ray, inserted below preopercle. 1018. SELACHOPHIDIUM GUENTHERI Gilchrist, l iterature L 4, 27, 39, 47, 695. PLATE 83 1034. Hclico/eiuis maciilciliis, 10 ins. 1037. Scorpaeiia mossambico, above, 3 ins., from sand, below, 5 ins. from weed, 1039. Scorpcicna kowieitsis, 3 ins. 1040. Scorpciena nafa/ensis, 9 ins. 1053. Caracanr/nis zeyloniciis, 2 tns. 1055. (.non- ihicnlodes natalcnsis, 4 ins. Actual length stated in each case. „ '-JjSirT BONY FISHES— Family BROTULIDAE 363 Depth about 6. D about 110. A about 85. P 25-27. 17-18 gill-rakers plus a few knobs. Colour dull. Attains 12 ins. Found only in South Africa, from the Cape to Natal in 100-500 fathoms. Genus Neobythites Goode & Bean, genotype Neohythites gillii G. & B. Head and body with small scales. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. No barbels. No free pectoral rays. L.l. single, sometimes incomplete. Pelvics each of 2 rays, inserted below preopercle. Small fishes of deep water, 1 in our area. 1019. NEOBYTHITES MACROPS Gunther. [Neohythiles analis Brnrd.] Literature L 4, 45, 47, 49, 367, 695. Fig. 1019. NEOBYTHITES MACROPS Gnthr. Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 5.1. D about 100. A about 85. 6-7 gill-rakers plus 8-9 knobs. Dull dusky. Attains 9 ins. Known from the Phillipines, has been found from Algoa Bay to Natal down to 700 fathoms. Genus Cataetvx Gunther, genotype Siremho messieri Gnthr. Head and body scaly. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. No barbels. No free pectoral rays. Pelvics each of I ray inserted below opercle. Lateral line incomplete. Viviparous, male with penis. In deep tropical waters, about 6 species, 1 in our area. 102(1. CATAETVX MESSIERI (Gunther). [Siremho messieri Gnthr.] Literature L 4, 28, 30, 47, 329, 367, 695. Fig. 1020. CATAETYX MESSIERI (Gnthr.). After Gunther. Depth about 5. D about 100. A about 70. P 25-30. 3 gill-rakers, plus rough knobs. Short cirri on upper lip. Dull coloured. Attains at least 25 ins. A tropical Pacific deep-water form, taken from the Cape to Natal in 50-800 fathoms. Genus Oiplacanthoponia Gunther, genotype Diplacanthopoma brachysoma Gnthr. Scales present. Caudal nited with dorsal and anal. No barbels. No free pectoral rays. 2 spines on opercle. L.l. present. Pelvics ich of 1 ray inserted below opercle. A few epical deep-water forms. 1 in our area. 1021. DIPL.4CANTHOPOMA MGRIPIN- sIS Gilchrist & von Bonde. Literature L 4, 19, 695. Depth about 4. Pelvics each of a single ray. Jrownish. Attains 12 ins. Taken off Natal in '00 fathoms. Fig. 1021, DIPLACANTHOPOMA NIGRIPINNIS G. & v. B. After von Bonde. 364 BONY FISHES Family OPHIDIIDAI: Genus Porogadus Goode & Bean, genotype Porogadus miles G. & B. Head and body scaly. Caudal united with dorsal and anal. No barbels. No free pectoral ravs. 3 Lateral lines. 1 above, 1 median and 1 below. Numerous species in deep water of most tropical seas, 1 in our area. 1022. POROG.\DlJS MILES Goode & Bean. Literature L 4, 361, 394, 695. Depth about 9. 15-16 gill-rakers plus 6-7 knobs. Each L.l. a series of pores. Dull, dusky. .Attains 12 ins. An .Atlantic deep-water species down to 1,200 fathoms, taken otf the Cape in 800 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also family OPHIDIIDAE KINGKI.IP: CUSKEEI.S Elongate compres.sed body, rather eel-shaped, tapering behind, naked or with minute scales. Mouth fairly large, snout usually overhangs. Small sharp teeth in jaws and on palate, a few larger as well. Dorsal and anal long, united at end of body. Pelvics present, reduced to a pair of barbels inserted below chin. Carnivorous fishes, many of warmer seas, some abundant and fairly large, of importance as food, mostly from deepish water. Of numerous genera, 2 in our area. A. Scales on opercles . Genvptcrus (1023) B. No scales on opercles . Otophidium (\Q24) Genus Genypterus Philhpi, genotype Genypterus nigricans Phill. No scales on head except on opercles Lateral line distinct. Minute scales in oblique rows not overlapping. Air bladder pointed behind without foramen. A few species of colder waters of the Southern Hemisphere, important as food I in our area [Xiphiurus or Otophidium capcnsis.] Kingkiip. KoningkIip. 1023. GENYPTERUS CAPENSIS < Smith). Literature L 4. 39. 47, 58, 645. Plate 87, p, 372. Depth about 7. 4 gill-rakers plus a few knobs. L.l. almost to end of tail. Colour variable mottled Attains at least s ft. Pound from Walfish Bay round to Algoa Bay in 30 250 fathoms. A rather slimy quite unmistakable species, sometimes abundant. Flesh excellent, an important food-fish of Cape waters, taken on lines, but mostly by trawl. The liver is of a delicacy and flavour unsurpassed by even chicken liver If it became known ashore it would likely command a high price as a delicacy. Genus Otophidium Gill, genotype Genypterus otostigma J. & G. No scales on head Lateral line distinct Scales not overlapping, in oblique rows. Air bladder short and thick, with large foramen behind A few species from the Southern Hemisphere, 3 about America, 4 from Japan, and 1 in our area 1024. OTOPHIDIUM SMITHI Fowler. Literature L 19. Depth about 7.L D 98. .A 95. L.l. not to end of tail. 4 gill-rakers. Pelvics each of 2 rays. Fine teeth in bands in each Jaw, also on palate. Live colours unknown. Only a single specimen 6 ins. long from Natal. More wanted. Fig. 1024. OTOPHIDIUM SMITHI Fwlr. .Alter Fowler. •HWfcM PLATE 84 10.12, Anihlyapisim hinouita, 5\m. 10.11. Apisuin curinmus. ,1 ins. 1052. Symwccm rcrrucosa, 1 ins. 1059. Conyio- /^oaus .spimfcr, 81115. 1060. Coni^iopodus toryus, 20 ins. 1061. flopHchthys acanthopfcurusy b \r\s. 1076. Daityloptcna oricnfa/is, 6 Ins. Acluui length stated in each ease. BONY FISHES— Family ZOARCIDAE Family ZOARCIDAE 365 EELPOUTS Elongate, rather flabby body, naked or with tiny scales. Mouth moderate, with fine conical teeth in jaws, sometimes on palate. Dorsal and anal elongate. Gill-openings variable. Queer small fishes of deep waters of cold seas, some producing the young alive. Little is known about these fishes, which are rarely seen in our waters save by those engaged in deep-sea surveys. 3 genera. A. . No pelvic fins ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Melanostigma (\Q25) B. Pelvics present. 1. Depth about 10 . Lycocies (1026) 2. Depth about 20 . Lycodonus (\02T) Cienus Melanostigma Gunther, genotype the single species. Fairly elongate flabby body without scales. No pelvics. Gill-opening small, above pectoral. 1025. .MELANOSTIGMA GELATINOSUM Gunther. Literature L 4, 49, 342, 367, 394, 412. Fig. 1025. M FJ.ANOSTIGM A (iFLATINOSUM Gnthr. Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 9. Greyish black to purple. An Atlantic species down to 1,400 fathoms, taken off the Cape. Cienus Lycodes Reinhardt, genotype Lycodes vahli Rein. Moderately elongate body with minute scales. Small conical teeth in jaws and on palate. Gill-opening wide. Pelvics present but small, each merely a flap. Hetid and lips thicker in males. Many species from deep water, mainly northern Atlantic, I in our area. 1026. LYCODES FRIGIDUS Collett. Literature L 4, 330, 334, 395. Fig. 1026. LYCODES FRIGIDUS Coll. Actual length 8 ins. Depth about 9. Young with teeth in a single row, adults with 2 or more. Lateral line distinct. Gill-opening wide. Purplish brown. Mainly north Atlantic down to 1.300 fathoms, not uncommon, has been found off the Capxr. Genus Lycodonus Barnard, genotype the single species. Body very elongate, worm-like, with minute scales. Pelvics present, but small, merely a flap. Gill-opening restricted. No L.l. 1027. LYCODONUS VERMIFORMIS Barnard. Literature L 4. Depth about 23. D about 115. A about 100. Bony scutes along bases of dorsal and anal. Snout bulbous, overhangs mouth, which extends to below front margin of eye. Gill-openings extend down to level of bottom of pectorals, which reach beyond dorsal origin. Known from a few specimens obtained by Gilchrist off Cape Point in 4-6CF630 fathoms. 33 366 BONY FISHES— Family HALIDESMIDAE Family HAEIDESMIDAE Elongate eel-like body, naked or witli minute scales. Small mouth, with fine teeth in a single series. 3 lateral lines. Dorsal and anal long, not fully united with caudal, a small spine at dorsal origin. Pelvics present, small. Only one genus, Halidesmus Gunther, genotype the single species. 1028. HALIDESMLJS SCAPIII.ARIS Gunther. [Porogrammus capcnsis G. & T.] Slangetjie. Literature L 4, 46, 47, 301. Plate 82, p. 359. Depth about 15. D 1 52-65. A 42-52. 7-9 gill-rakers. 3 distinct lateral lines, each mostly double pores, upper and middle L.l. joined by a branch. Lower L.l. divides at pelvics but reunites at vent. Mostly blackish, with an oval dark mark on shoulder. Attains 7 ins. Occurs only in South Africa, from the Cape to Natal, down to 50 fathoms. An agile small fish difficult to capture. When pursued it leaves the water and wriggles actively over the rocks. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER CATAPHRACTl (1029-1085) MAIL-CHEEKED FISHES Characterised and easily recognised by a bony ridge across the cheek, the end articulating with the front edge of the preopercle. Head usually armoured with bony plates, sometimes completely encased, with few or many spiny projections. In some cases this armature is concealed by a covering of thick skin. Body naked or partly or wholly scaly. Small or moderate sized fishes of all seas, many littoral, in reefs and weeds, some in deep to very deep water. Many are brilliantly coloured and among the most beautiful of all creatures, and most are adepts at concealment. Some have poisonous spines, a few with special glands on the spines, with secretion of high to.xicity, so that stabs may prove fatal if not promptly treated. .All mail-cheeked fishes should be handled with great care. The flesh of all species appears to be wholesome, in some cases delicate and well-flavoured, and a few are fishes of commercial value. Others are sufficiently rare to be objects of curiosity to both layman and expert. 12 families in our area. A. Head not completely encased. 1. Pelvics present, normal, bases adjacent. (a) Nostrils double. (i) Anal spines present. (.v) No scales ... . (_)•) Scales present. (a) Gill-membranes free (^) Gill-membranes united with isthmus (ii) No anal spines ... . (h) One nostril each side ... . 2. Pelvics present, normal, bases widely separate. (a) Body naked . . (/?) Body scaly. (i) Pelvic below pectoral base . (ii) Pelvic behind pectoral base . 3. Pelvics absent, or if present united to a disc B. Head completely encased. 1. Body with large bony plates ... . 2. Body with scales. (а) Long preopercular spine (б) Feeble preopercular spine . Tetrarogidae ( 1029-1033) Scorpaenidac ( 1034-105 1 ) Synanciidac ( 1052-1055) Cottunculidae ( 1056-1058) Congiopodidae (1059-1060) Hoplicli ihyidac (1061) Bembridue (1062) Platyccphalidae (1063-1 069) Liparidae ( 1 070- 1 073) Peristediidae { 1074-1075) Cephalacanihidae (1076) Tr/gM/uc (1077-1085) -',/■• t-,. -I. y ■- ■ \:. ■■ : ■■■•’ ■..j * liis^ ' - ^ ' ■*. ^ J - ’ *r - i ^ * I • r- »_.'- * _ '■jj' . y\ •< ♦ PLATE 85 1041. Scorpacuopsia toseo, 3 ins. 1042. Scorpacnopsis ^ibht>.su, 5 ins. 1043. Scorpucnopsis cirrhos(h nbo\c. 4 ins., below, 8 ins. 1045. Sehu.slichlhys capensis, 12 ins. Aclual length slated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family TETRA ROG! DAL 267 Family TETRAROGIDAE A bony ridge across the cheek below the eye. Gill-membranes quite free from isthmus. Skin smooth or granular, no scales. Dorsal spines strong, sometimes elevated. Spines about the head. Caudal never forked. Mouth moderate, teeth feeble. Small rather degenerate fishes, mostly of the Indo-Pacific, many feared for their poisonous spines. All are feeble swimmers, and most depend upon concealment for survival. Flesh reputed not edible. Quite easily identified. 4 genera in our area. A. 1-2 anal spines. 1. 12-13 dorsal spines . Coccotropus (1029) 2. 14-16 dorsal spines . Ptarmus (1030) B. 3 or more anal spines '• 1°'^ . . Coccoiropsis (1031) 2. Dorsal high in front ... ... ... ... ... ,,, ... .. A wA/wp/.s-twi- (1032-1033) Cjcnus Coccotropus Kaup, genotype Corylliohatiis ecliinatus Cuv. Skin with papillae. Fine teeth in jaws and on vomer. Dorsal of 12-13 low spines, 1-2 anal spines. All fin rays simple. Small fishes of the 1 ndo-Pacific, few species, I in our area. 1<)29. COC CO I ROPES .MONACA.M MES (Gilchrist). [Tetraropc monacaiuhiis.] Literature F 4, 30, 47. Ocpth about 3. D XIII 10. A 1 8. 3-4 gill- rakers. L.l. tubules about 10. Live colour not know n. Attains 2 ins. Found so far only off the Natal coast in 20-26 fathoms. Possibly an Indian Ocean form. Fig. 1029. COCCOTROPUS MOSACANTHUS (Glch.). After Gilchrist. Clenus Ptarmus Smith, genotype Coccotropus juhatus Smith. Skin velvety, but with some papillae. Fine teeth in jaws and vomer. Dorsal of 14 16 spines. 2 anal spines. All fin rays simple. 1 species. 1030. PI.AR.MES .lEB.VlES (Smith). [Coccotropus juhatus. Ptarmus la/iyiiidus Smith.] Literature L 67 , 86. Fig. 1030. PTARMUS JUB.4TUS (Smith). .Actual length 2t ins. Depth 2)*. D XIV-XVI 8. A 11 6-7. V I 2. L.l. tubules 13. Gill-rakers obsolescent. Dark brown, almost black. Attains 3 ins. So far found only among weed in Delagoa Bay, not uncommon there, a curious sluggish fish. 368 BONY FISHES— Family SCORPAENIDAE Genus Coccotropsis Barnard, genotype the single species. Skin smooth. 3 anal spines. Dorsal of 15 spines, low. Fine teeth on jaws and vomer. AH fin rays simple. Deeper water. 1031. COCCOTROPSIS CYMNODERMA (Gilchrist). {Tetroroge gymnodermci.] Literature L 4, 30. Depth about 3. D XV 5-6. A 111 4. L.l. 7-10 tubules. 7 feeble gill-rakers. Brown-red, variegated red, with dark speckles. Attains 2 ins. Found only from the Cape to Algoa Bay in 5-60 fathoms, not uncommon. Genus Ambljapistus Bleeker, genotype Apistus taenionotus Cuv. Velvety skin. Dorsal of many spines, high in front. 3 anal spines. Small sluggish fishes ot shallow water of the Indo-Paeific, mostly among weeds in quiet water. The spines inflict painful wounds. 2 species in our area. 1032. -AMBLA .APISTDS BlNOl.AT.A (Peters). [Tctrarogc hinotata, or Anihlyapislus nuirlcyi Rgn. Literature L 19, 55, 59, 81. Plate 84, p. 364. Depth about 3. D XV-XVI 8-9. A III 5-6. Lateral line tubules about 22. 7-8 feeble gill-rakers. Colour always dark, the silvery spot at pectoral vivid. Attains 8 ins. Found only on our east coast from Durban northwards, quite abundant among weeds in Dclagoa Bay. The net fishermen there treat it with great respect, as stabs from the spines are painful and often give trouble. 1033. .AMBLA .APISTL'S I .AENIONOTCS (Cuvier). [Apistus taenionotus.] Literature L 4, 128, 152, 328. Depth about 3. D XVl-XVIl 7-8. A 111 5-7. About 16 separate tubules in L.l. Appearance and colour much as No. 1032, but no siKery spot. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacilic, has been recorded from Mozambique. Family SCORPAENIDAE SCORPION FISHES: SlINGEISMES Body moderately elongate, not much compressed, with normal scales. The head is distinctly armoured with bony plates, and characteristically spiny. Below the eye is a bony ridge Joined to the prcopcrcle. Fin spines well developed, pelvics close together, of 1 spine and 5 rays. Gill-openings wide, gill-membranes not united with isthmus. Mostly small fishes, tound in all seas, some in deep water, most abundant about reefs and rocks in shallow water of tropical seas, though some live in colder seas and in deep water. Many are brilliantly coloured, and of variegated patterns to match the tropical growths where they live. They are all adepts at concealment. Some are apparently viviparous, and copulate. While none of these fishes have true poison glands, the mucus which coats the body and spines is toxic, so that stabs or pricks are intensely painful, and if deep may be dangerous. Any brightly coloured spiny fish should be handled with caution, especially in tropical waters. Despite this most Scorpaenids are wholesome food, sometimes of delicate flavour. Numerous genera, 1 1 in our area. -A. 12 dorsal spines. 1. Pectoral cut square above . 2. Pectoral normally rounded. (a) All pectoral rays simple (h) Some pectoral rays divided. (-v) Bones of head cavernous... (j) Bones of head normal. (i) Teeth on palatines (ii) No teeth on palatines Hclicolenus (1034) Kantapus (1035) Setarches (1036) Scor poena (1037-1 040) Scorpaenopsis (1041-1 043) 1063. 1083. PLATE 86 Plalycephalim imliciis, I.*! ins. 1065. Ploiycephalus uranilitlicri. 12 ins Trifi/a capensis, 24 ins., lefi, inside of pectoral. 1084. Trivia t/iiekelti. 12 9 ins. Actual length stated in each case. 1074. PcrisicJitiii (uh’iii, 10 ins. ins. 1085. Triyioponis iifricanus. BONY FISHES — Family SCORPAENIDAE 369 B. 13 — 14 dorsal spines. I . Spinous dorsal membrane normal. {(ij 8-10 dorsal rays. (a) More than 10 branched rays in pectoral (>■) Less than 10 branched rays in pectoral (/>) 13-14 dorsal rays . 2. Dorsal spines free from membrane. (a) Pectoral rays simple . (h) Some pectoral rays branched . C. 15 dorsal spines ... . Sebastosemus (1044) Scorpaenodes ( 1 044a) Sehaslichthys (1045) Pterois (1046-1048) Dendrochirwi (1049-1050) Apistus (1051) Genus Helicolenus Goode & Bean, genotype Scorpaena dactyloptera de la R. 12 dorsal spines. 8 lower pectoral rays simple, upper part of fm square-cut. Fine teeth in jaws and on palate. In deepish water of most oceans, 1 species in our area. 1034. HELICOLENUS MACULATUS (Cuvier). Sancord. Jacopever (West Coast). Literature L 4, 19,39,152. Plate 83, p. 362. Depth about 3. D XII 13. A III 5. L.l. about 30 tubular. 20-23 gill-rakers. Attains 15 ins. From Walfish Bay to Natal in 30-300 fathoms, sometimes quite abundant in the trawl. Flesh palatable. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Kantapus Smith, genotype the single species. 12 dorsal spines. Pectoral normally rounded, all rays simple, middle ray prolonged. Fine teeth in jaws and on palate. One species. 1035. KANTAPUS OGLI.NUS Smith. Literature L 86. Fig. 1035. KANTAPUS OGLfNUS Smith. Actual length 3| ins. Depth 2L D XII 9. A III 5. L.l. 24 tubular. 6 spiny gill-rakers. All pectoral rays simple. .Attains 3i ins. So far found only from Durban to Inhambane, shallow water, among rocks. Genus Setarches Johnson, genotype Selanhes gwuheri Johnson. 12 dorsal spines. Pectoral normally rounded, the rays divided. Bones of head cavernous. A few species from deep water, 1 in our area. 370 BONY FISHES— Family SCORPAENIDAE 1036. SETARCHES LONGICEPS (Gunther). [Setarches fidjieiisis Gnthr., or rcmi^cra G. & C., or marleyi Fwir.] Previously confused with Setarches gwithen Johnson. Literature L 63, 655, 695. Depth about 3. D XII 10. A III 5. L.l. about 26 pores. Scales minute. 3 4 simple, 18-19 branched pectoral rays. 10 gill-rakers. Attains 9 ins. Widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific in deep water, has been found off Natal. Genus Scorpaeiia Linnaeus, genotype Seorpaena parens Linn. 12 dorsal spines. Pectoral rounded, some of the rays divided. Fine teeth in jaws, on vomer and on palatines. 2 spines from preorbital project downwards over maxilla. Numerous species in all warm seas, 4 in our area. Revision is needed in this group as the species are variable. A. 4 branched rays in pectoral . mossamhiea (1037) B. 5 branched rays in pectoral. 1. A tentacle above eye ... ... ... ... ... ... . . haploilactylus (1038) 2. No tentacle above eye . kowiensis (KW) C. 9-10 branched rays in pectoral . natalensis (1040) 1037. SCORP.\EN.A .MOSS.WIBIC.A Peters. [Seorpaena zanziharensis Plyfr.] Scorpion Fish. Stingtish. Literature L 4. 221, 275, 383. Plate 83, p. 362. 2 colour patterns. Fig. 1037. SCORPAESA MOSSAMBtCA Pet. Actual length 5 ins. v.nfhr” u. about 30 tubular. 4 branched artd 1 1 simple pectoral ra.s bh many skinny (laps. Attains 5 ins. Colour somewhat variable accordinc to environment Found only on t^he east coast of Africa, reaches Knysna, is abundant in roek pools northwards from the Bashee Dif¬ ficult to find, virtually invisible in a rock pool. oasnee. uit- BONY FISHES— Family SCORPAENIDAE 371 1038. SCORPAENA HAPLODACTYLUS Bleeker. Scorpionfish. Stingfish. Literature L 4 19 47 205, 328. Depth about 3. D XII 9. A III 5. L.l. about 26 tubular. 5 branched and 12 simple pectoral rays. Skinny flaps on head and on L.l. A short tentacle above eye. Reddish, with darker bands and mottling, fins more or less banded, caudal with a bar across the middle and one at base, margin dark. Attains 5 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Durban. 1039. SCORPAENA KOWIENSIS Smith. Scorpionfish. Stingfish. Literature L 67. Plate 83, p. 362. Depth about 22. D XII 9. A III 5. L.l. about 24 tubular. 5 branched and 10 simple pectoral rays. No skinny flaps, no tentacle above eye. 5 gill-rakers. Red-brown, mottled and marbled, also fins. Caudal with bar across base. Attains 4 ins. Port Alfred to Durban. 1040. SCORPAENA NATAI^EN.SIS Regan. [Scorpaena durhanensis G. & T.] Scorpionfish. Literature L 4, 14,43,47,51. Plate 83, p. 362. Depth about 3. D XII 9-10. A III 5. L.l. about 25 tubular. 9 gill-rakers. Pectoral with 10 simple and 9-10 branched rays. Attains 15 ins. Found only from the Cape to Natal in 20-60 fathoms, taken mostly in the trawl. A beautiful fish, larger than any other Scorpaenid in our area. Clenus .Scorpaenopsis Heckel, genotype Scorpaena nesogallica Cuv. 12 dorsal spines. Pectoral rounded, some of the rays divided. Fine teeth in jaws and on vomer, none on palatines. 1 spine from preorbital projects downwards over maxilla. Small fishes of warm seas, 3 in our area, not easily distinguished. A. Pectoral reaches anal origin. 1. Tentacle above eye larger than eye . ... ... rosea (\0A\) 2. Tentacle above eye short or absent ... . gihhosa (1042) B. Pectoral not reaching anal origin ... ... ... ■•. ... ••• cirrhosa {\QA'i) 1041. SCORPAENOF’SIS RO.SEA (Day). Scorpionfish. Stingfish. Literature L 4, 19, 47, 283, 328. Plate 85, p. 367. Depth about 22- D XII 9-10. A III 5. L.l. about 24 tubular. 5-6 branched and 10-11 simple pectoral rays. 10 short gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Colour variable, mainly rosy. An Indian species, reaches Durban, not abundant here. 1042. SCORPAENOPSIS ClBBOS.k (Bloch). Scorpionfish. Stingfish. Literature L 4, 14, 54, 127, 152, 31 7, 326. Plate 85, p. 367. Depth about 2H. D XII 9 10. A III 5. L.l. about 23 tubular. 5-6 branched and 10-12 simple pectoral rays. 9 short gill-rakers. Colour variable. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 1043. SCORPAENOPSIS CIRRMOSA (Thunberg). [Scorpaenopsis durhanensis G. .] Scorpionfish. Stingfish. Literature L 4, 14, 21, 43. 326, 383. Plate 85, p. 367. Depth about 3. D XII 9-10. .A III 5. L.l. about 25 tubular. 5-7 branched and 11-12 simple pectoral ra.ys. 10 12 short gill-rakers. No tentacle above eye. Colour variable, mainly reddish, mottled. Attains 12 ms. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends to the Natal south coast. Genus Sebastosemus Gill, genotype Neosehastes entaxis J. & S. Many spines on head. D XIII 9. Fine teeth on jaws, vomer and palatines. Some pectoral rays simple. Few species. In all seas in deepish water, 1 in our area. 372 BONY FISHES— Family SCORPAENIDAE 1044. SEBASTOSEMUS CAPENSIS (Gilchrist & von Bonde). [Scorpaena capcnsis.] Jacopever. ture L 4, 49, 644. Litera- Fig, 1044. SEBASTOSEMUS CAPENSIS (Ci. & von B.). Actual length 8 ins. Depth about 3. D XIII 9. A III-IV 5. 20 23 pectoral rays, the uppermost 1 and lower 7-9 simple. L.l. about 30 tubular. 10 12 spiny gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. Reddish. South Africa only, from the Cape to St. Helena Bay in 250-560 fathoms. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Scorpaenodes Bleeker, genotype the single species. Head spiny. 13 dorsal spities. No ptilatine teeth. Scales on head ctenoid. I species. 1044a. SCORPAENODES Gl’A.MENSIS (Quoy & Gaimard). Literature L 147, 328. 613. Fig. 1044a. SCORPAENODES GUAMENSIS (Q. & G.). Actual length 4 ins. Depth about 2®. D XIII 8-10. A III 5. L.l. about 40-42. 6 branched and II simple pectoral rays. 6-7 gill-rakers. Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Pondoland. Genus Sebastichthys Gill, genotype Sehastes nigrocinctus Ayres. Head not very spiny. 13 14 dorsal spines. Fine teeth on jaws, vomer and palatines. Some pectoral rays simple. Mainly Indo-Pacific, but I Atlantic species in our waters. 1045. SEBASTICHTHYS C.4PENSIS (Gmelin). Jacopever. Literature L 4, 58, 412, 644. Plate 85, p. 367. Depth about 3. D XIII-XIV 13-14. A III 6. 18 pectoral rays, the lower 9-10 simple. 19-22 gill-rakers. About 40 tubules in L.L Attains 16 ins. A South Atlantic species, mainly in deeper water in 20-150 fathoms, from the Cape to Saldanha Bay, taken on lines, also along the shore in rocky areas in False Bay, but rarely seen there. Common about Tristan da Cunha. I / i PLATE 87 1017. Hoplohroliila gnalliopiis. 14 ins. 1023. Genyplerus capensis, A fl. 1086. Chorisochismus denlex, 9 m%. 1087. Eckloniiiichihys scyiHorhiniccps, li ins, 1088. Lepadiclithys coccinotaenia, 2 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family SCORPAEN/DAE 373 bra HP An genotype Scorpaena volitans Bloch. 13-14 dorsal spines, elongate, free from mem- n iT ' rT "PP"" membrane. Fine teeth on jaws and vomer InHn p" r ** '^r' coloured filamentous finned beauties of shallow water of the tropical do-Pacfic. Should be handled with care, as the slightest prick from a spine is most painful. 5 specL in our area. (For ini/es Benn. and antennata BE, see Appendix). A. 9 soft dorsal rays B. 10-12 soft dorsal rays. 1. Caudal with black spots 2. Caudal plain macrurus (1046) volitans (1047) russellii ( 1 048) 1046. PTF.ROIS .MACRURUS (Alcock). [Pterois nigripinnis Glch., or natalensis von B.l Butterflyfish bireworksfish. .Stingfish. Literature U 4, 28, 47, 408, 415, 419. Depth about 3. DX1119. All-1117. U.l. about 45. A tentacle over eye, and one at side of mouth. Bright red, variegated with darker cross-bars. Fins dark spotted, but pectoral and pelvic dark with light spots. Attains I- ins. An Indian Ocean species, found mostly in deeper water to 150 fathoms, not uncommon from Durban northwards. 1047. PIEROIS VOIJTANS (Linnaeus). Devilfish (Transkei). Butterflvfish. Fireworksfish. Stingfish. Literature L 4, 19, 21, 47, 326, 328, 613. Proniispiece. Fig. 1047. PTEROIS VOLITAS'S (Linn.). Actual length 9 ins. Depth about 2.1. DXllI 10-12. A 111 6-7. Scales small, about 90 series. .An unmistakable species, always black spots on caudal. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific, reaches Mossel Bay. The young, which abound in rock pools in our warmer areas, are not so highly coloured. The very young are almost transparent and all are adepts at concealment. Floating idly in the water with all fins and filaments extended these fishes are one of the most gorgeous sights in nature, but the spines are poisonous. Often found in estuaries. 1048. PTFROIS RUSSELLII Bennett. [Pterois kodipungi Blkr.] Butterflyfish. Fireworksfish. Stingfish. Literature L 4, 19, 326, 328. Depth about 3. D XllllO-12. A III 7-8. Scales small, about 70 series. Colour something like No. 1047, but soft dorsal, anal and caudal have no dark spots, and the pectoral is lightish. Attains 12 ins. A central Indo-Pacific species which has been found in Natal. 374 BONY FISHES— Family SYNANCIIDAE Genus Dendrochirus Swainson, genotype Ptcroi.s zebra Cuv. 13 14 dorsal spines, fairly elongate, free from membrane. Pectoral with some divided rays, none free. Fine teeth on jaws and vomer, none on palatines. Highly coloured fishes rather like Pterois. but fins not so elongate. Frequent shallow warm indo-Pacific waters, entering estuaries, 2 species in our area. Spines dangerous. A. Pectoral reaches caudal base . ... ... ... ... zebra (\049) B. Pectoral short of caudal base . hraehypterus {\05Q) 1049. DENDROCHIRUS ZEBR.V (Cuvier). [Plerois zebra.] Scorpionlish. Kutterfivish. Literature L 4, 152, 326, 328. Depth about 3]. D XIII II. A III 6-7. About 50 .series of scales. Pectoral reaches caudal base. Fleshy tentacles on head, that above eye long. Colour like that of No. 1050, red, with cross-bars, radiating streaks from eye, pectorals with zig-zag dark marks. Attains 8 ins. Central Indo-Pacific, has been found off Natal in 20 fathoms. 1050. DENDROCHIRUS BR.\CH\ P I ERUS (Cuvier). [Pterois brachypierus.] .Scorpionlish. ButterHy- fish. Literature L 4. 19, 152, 326, 527, 580. Plate 102, p. 430. Depth about 2J. DXIII9 10. A 1116. About 45 series of scales. Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban. Genus .Apistus Cuvier, genotype Apistus alati/s Cuv. 15 dorsal spines. Small jagged scales. 3 barbels on lower jaw. Fine teeth on jaw's, vomer and palatines. Pectoral long, all rays simple, I 2 lower rays free. Prob¬ ably only one species of the Indo-Pacific. 1051. APISTUS CARINATUS (Bloch). [Api.stas alaliis Cuv., or faitrei G. & T.j Literature L 43, 47, 127,152, 328. Plate 84, p. 364. Depth about 3]. D XV 9 10. A 111 7 8. About 65 series of scales. 12 gill-rakers. Brownish to pink. ■Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, shore or in deeper water. Has been found off Durban in 1 5-30 fathoms. Rare. Family SYNANCIIDAE STONEEISHES: STINTiFISHES A bony ridge across the cheek meeting the preopercle. The body and head usually spinate and rough ex¬ ternally. Gill-membranes fused with isthmus, gill-openings restricted. 2 or 3 anal spines. Rather small tropical Indo-Pacific fishes, among themost dreaded inhabitants of tide-pools of warm seas. Not easy to spot, all have poisonous spines, at least one species with poison sacs, able to inflict painful wounds almost as deadly as snake bite. Fortunately hardly penetrating our area, 4 genera have been found here. A. Head flattened B. Head and body normal. 1. 7 dorsal spines ... 2. 10-1 1 dorsal spines 3. 14-15 dorsal spines Synanceja ( 1 052) Caraeanthus ( 1053) Minous ( 1 054) Choridactytodes (1055) Genus Synanceja Bloch, genotype Synaneeia verrucosa Bloch. Body with warty excrescences, head broad and depressed. Dorsal spines grooved, covered with thick skin, with poison sacs above the base. 2 species. 1 in our area. 1052. S'V.N.ANCE.J.A \ ERRUCOS.A Bloch. Stonefish. Devilfish. Literature 1. 8 1 . 328. Plate 84, p. 364. D XIII 7. A III 5. P 19. 7-8 low spiny gill-rakers. Colour mostly drab, sometimes flashing scarlet patches, to match the background. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in shallow tropical areas of the Indo-Pacific, this deadly brute has been found in Delagoa Bay, but is fortunately rare in our area. Quiet and concealed in a crevice it is virtually invisible. If trodden on with the bare foot the sharp spines penetrate deeply, the toxin is forced into the flesh, the person so injured is due to suffer the greatest numbing agony, and may even die unless promptly treated (See Treatment of Wounds, p. 25). The spines penetrate an ordinary sandshoe with ease. V PLATE 88 1137. Pervagor inelanocephaliis, 4 ins. 1139. Paranionacaiitims barnarcii, 4 ins. 1140. Stephnnolepis aurcUns. 6 ins. 1144. Anumses sandwichiensis, 1 ins. 114.“'. Antanses fronticincms, 4 ins. II. “18. Mcdichthys vidua. 6 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family COTTUNCULI DAE 375 GenLis Caracanthus Kroyer, genotype Micropus maculatus Gray. Ovoid body with small rough papillae. 2 anal and 7 dorsal spines, rays branched. A few poorly known small fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific 1 in our area. 1053- CARACANTHUS ZEYLONICUS (Day). [Micropus zeylonicus.] Literature L 59, 328. Plate 83, P- 362. Depth 2. D VII 13. A II II. L.l. about 13 tubules. 13 gill-rakers. Attains 2 ins. Known from India and Madagascar, has been found as far south as Port Alfred. Genus Minous Cuvier, genotype Minous woora C. & V. Head ridged and spiny. 1 free ray in pectoral. Barbels on lower jaw. 10 II stout dorsal spines, poisonous. A few small fishes of the tropical Indo-Pacific, I in our area. 1054. .MINOUS 'I RACHYCEPHALUS Bleeker. [Minous superciliosus Gilchrist & Thompson.] Litera¬ ture L 4, 19, 43, 47, 247, 323. Fig. 1054. M/NOUS TRACH YCEPHALUS BIkr. Actual length 3 ins. Depth about 3. D XI 12. All 10. 9 gill-rakers. Brownish, variegated and mottled. Attains 5 ins. An Indo-Pacific species found in 20 26 fathoms off Durban and Zululand. Genus Choridactylodes Gilchrist, genotype the single species. Spiny, and with skinny flaps. 14-15 sharp dorsal spines. 1 free pectoral ray. Barbels on lower jaw. 1055. CHORIDACTYI.ODES NATALENSIS Gilchrist. [Choridactylus natalensis.] Literature L 4, 14, 19, 24, 47. Plate 83, p. 362. Depthabout3. DXIVXV7 9. A 119. 7-8 gill-rakers. No tubules in L.l. Upper pectoral ray filamentous, 2 lower detached. Colour brilliant and variable. Attains 4 ins. So far found only on the Natal coast in rock pools, and at 20 30 fathoms. It is difficult to recognise this as a fish, and in reddish weed it is virtually invisible. Spines poisonous. Family COTTUNCULIDAE Large head, body tapers behind. No true scales, skin at most granular. Fine teeth in jaws in bands, some¬ times on palate. Beneath the skin a bony ridge across the cheek to the preopercle. Dorsal single, with few spines. Curious degenerate fishes of deep water of most oceans, rarely seen. In our area the genus Cottunculoides Bar¬ nard, genotype here designated as Cottuncidus spinosus Gilchrist, with no teeth on vomer. 3 species in our area. A. DIVIO. Head spiny . spinosus {\056) B. DIVll. Head smooth . macrocephalus (\05/) C. D VH-VIll 17-19. Head smooth . i/icwtti (1058) 376 BONY FISHES— Family CONGIOPODIDAE 1056. COTTUNCHLOIDES SPINOSOS (Gilchrist). [Cottimculus spinosus.] Literature L 4, 30, 39. Fig. 1056. COTTUNCULO/DES SPINOSUS (Cilch.). After Gilchrist. Elongate tapering body. D IV 10. A 10. V 1 3. P 16. Fine teeth in 3 rows in front, only I on sides of jaws. Live colour unknown. Attains 3 ins. Known only from 800 1,200 ftithoms olf Cttpe Point. 1057. COTTUNCULOIDES MACROCE- PHALOS (Gilchrist). [Cotti/naihis nuuro- cephahts.] Literature L 28, 30, 39. Depth about 4. D I V 1 1 . A about 1 1 . Brown above, lighter below. Known from 1 specimen 2 ins. long from off Cape Point in 250 fathoms. Fig. 1057. COTTUNCULOIDES MAC ROCEPH ALUS (Glch.). After Gilchrist. 1058. COTTUNCCI.OIDES INERMIS (Vaillant). Literature 1. 4, 371. Much like No. 1057, but with D VII VIII 17-18, and A 13 14. 9 short gill-rakers. Attains 12 ins. South-east tropical Atlantic, has been taken in 200 600 fathoms off Cape Point. Family CONGIOPODIDAE Rather angular compressed body without true scales, skin sometimes granular. Only one nostril on each side. Fine teeth in bands, or in 1 series, or even absent. Gill-opening reduced, only above pectoral base. Head partly armed with bony plates. A bony ridge across the cheek to the preopercle. Dorsal with strong spines, anal without spines. Rather curious degenerate fishes of the Southern Hemisphere, mainly in colder water in South Ameriea and Australia also. Our species apparently feed mainly on crabs and other small creatures which are captured by the shooting out and withdrawal of the mouth (see Gilchrist, Marine Biological Report, 1914. Vol. 11. p. 102). 2 genera, 1 in our area, Congiopodus Perry, genotype Blenniu.s torvus Walb., with undivided dorsal fin. 2 species, easily distinguished. A. Several spines on snout . spinifer (1059) B. No spines on snout . ,onus (1060) 1059. CO.NGIOPODUS SPINIFER (Smith). [Agriopus spinifer.] Racehorse. .Seahorse. Horsefish. Literature L 14, 29, 41, 47, 58. Plate 84, p. 364. Depth about 3. D XIX-XXI 1 1 14. A 9 10, 1st ray spiniform. 8 9 gill-rakers. L.l. marked by groups of small spines. 2 spines before eyes, also 3 each side above mouth. Skin rough. Teeth variable, fine, or even absent. Attains 14 ins. Found usually in 30- 80 fathoms over almost the whole of our region. Flesh edible, but rarely eaten. This is the only fish which is known to ca.st its skin after the fashion of reptiles. BONY FISHES -Families HOPUCHTH YIDAE, BEMBR/DAE and PLATYCEPHAL/DAE 377 1060. CONGIOPODUS TORVUS (Walbaum). [Agriopus torvus, or verrucosus Cuv., or unicolor Burt, ox mu! tide n talus Cds,i.\ Racehorse. Seahorse. Horsefish. Literature L 4, 27, 34, 107, 152, 251. Plate 84, p. 364* Depth about 3. D XX-XXI 13-15. A 7-8. 8-9 gill-rakers. No L.l. visible. No spines on snout. Skin somewhat papillose in young, smooth in adult. Colour variable, darkens with age. Attains at least 30 ms. Found only in South Africa from the Cape to Pondoland down to 80 fathoms, sometimes thrown ashore. At times taken in numbers by trawlers, flesh palatable, not eaten in South Africa. Family HOPLICHTHYIDAE Broad depressed rather spiny head, with bony ridge across cheek to preopercle. Elongate tapering body. No scales, a row of spiny scutes along side. 3-4 lower pectoral rays detached. Pelvics widely separated. Curious small fishes of fairly deep water of the Indo-Pacific, rarely ever seen. Only one genus Hoplichthys Cuvier, genotype Hoplichthys langsdorfi C. & V., with 1 species in our area. 1061. HOPLICHTHYS ACANTHOPLEURUS Regan. Literature L 4, 39, 45, 47, 485, 580 Plate 84 p. 364. Head ridged and spiny. D VI : 14-15. A 16-17. P 13, :- 3 lower detached rays. 12 gill-rakers. Along each side 27 spiny scutes. Attains 7 ins. Tropical western Indian Ocean in deep water, has been taken in 60-150 fathoms off Natal and Zululand. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family BE.MBRIDAE Elongate more or less cylindrical body with smallish rough scales. Head ridged and spiny, not much depressed. A bony ridge across cheek to preopercle. 2 dorsals, the 1st of 6-11 spines, no free spine in front of fin. Mouth large, with fine teeth in bands in jaws and on palate. Pelvics behind pectorals. No air bladder. Small red fishes of deeper water of the tropical Indo-Pacific. A few genera, in our area only I, Parabembras Bleeker, genotype Bemhras curtus T. & S.. with 1 species in Japan and I in our area. 1062. PARABE.VIBRA.S ROBINSONI Regan. Literature L 4, 39, 57. Plate 97, p. 413. Head ridged and spiny, spines variable in number. Depth about 5. D X XI • I 8-9. A Ill 5. L.l. about 45. Tr. about 4/12. 17 gill-rakers. Attains at least 14 ins. So far found only off Natal in 120-200 fathoms. Likely identical with the Japanese species, curtus T. & S. Fami ly PLATYCEPHALIDAE RIVER GURNARDS: VLEISTOKVISSE: FLATHE.ADS Elongate more or less cylindrical body, tapering posteriorly, with small rough adherent scales. Head large, depressed, ridged and spinose. A bony ridge across the cheek to the preopercle. Large mouth, with fine teeth in jaws and on palate, larger canines sometimes present. Gill-rakers rudimentary. 2 dorsal fins, the 1st of spines only, and preceded by a single short isolated spine. Pelvics below pectorals. No air bladder. Bottom dwelling carnivorous fishes, of sandy areas of warm seas, often found in estuaries, mainly Indo-Pacific, 1 species from tropical West Africa, some reaching a fair size. These fishes bury themselves in sand or sludge, with only the eyes exposed, and these are inconspicuous because each pupil is largely concealed by a greyish speckled flap of the iris. Any unwary small fish that comes near is suddenly engulfed. Although of somewhat repulsive appearance, these fishes are good eating. Numerous genera have been proposed, but no competent review of the family has established them. Only one genus is at present accepted in our area, Platycephalus Bloch, genotype Platycephalus indicus Linn. Numerous species, many probably artificial. They are poorly known and so not easy to identify with certainty. 7 species in our area. 54 378 BONY FISHES— Family PLATYCEPHAUDAE A. L.I. quite smooth. 1. No tentacle or papilla over eye. (ff) Head almost smooth above (h) Head ridged and spiny... 2. A papilla above eye ... 3. A cirrus over eye B. L.I. partly or wholly spiny. 1. Front 7-8 L.I. scales spiny ... 2. Front 15-20 L.I. scales spiny 3. Whole L.I. spiny buEicus (1063) crocodilus (1064) f'randidieri ( 1 065) tcntaculalus (1066) prist is (1067) tuhcrculatus (1068) scahcr (1069) 1063. PLA LYCEPH.ALUS INDICUS (Linnaeus). [Platyceplialus insidiator Forsk., or madayascaricnsis Lac.] Vleistokvis. Rivergurnard. Sandgurnard. Sandscrapcr. Literature L 4, 14, 47, 67, 105, 326, 328. Plate 86, p. 369. Fig. 106.3. PLATYCEPHALVS INDICUS (Linn.). Actual length 20 ins. Head with only slight ridges above, flat spines on head low and feeble. 2 spines on preopercle. D 1 F Yll-F 13-14. A 13. L.I. about 120, smooth. Attains at least 40 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo- Pacific, mainly shallow water, penetrates as far south as VIossel Bay, quite well known in estuaries eastwards along the coast. Takes flesh bait, and has been taken on a spoon or plug. Good eating. The colourful tail fin shown in Plate 86 is less vivid in colder waters such as off our .south coast. 1064. PL.4T\ CEPH.-VLUS CROCODILE'S Tilesius. [Platycvpluilus maiaharicus C. & V., or punctatus C. & V.] Literature L 4, 14, 19, 43, 44, 47, 152, 328, 383. Head ridged and spiny above. 2 spines on preopercle. D I VII VllI ■ 11-12. A 11 12. L.I. about 85, quite smooth. Brownish to olive-grey, with several vague cross-bars in young, also many rounded dark spots. Fins dark, vaguely spotted. Attains at least 20 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as East London, not uncommon in estuaries of Natal and further north. 1065. PL.4T\ CEPH.-VLLS GR.ANDIDIERI Sauvage. [Platrcephalus pappHocidus Fwlr.] Literature L 16, 20, 383. Plate 86, p. 369. Head ridged and spiny above. 3 spines on preopercle. I) I VII VIII 1M2. All. L.I. tubules about 50, smooth. A papilla above each eye. Brownish, with vague darker cross mottlings on body and fins. Attains 18 ins. Tropical east coast of Africa and Madagascar, reaches Durban. 1066. PLATA CEPHALES TENT.ACEL.ATLS Ruppell. Literature L 4, 14, 47, 171, 317. Fig. 1066. PLATYCEPHALVS TENTACULATUS Rupp. After Gumher. BONY FISHES— Family LIPARIDAE 379 Head ridged and spiny above. 2 spines on preopercle. Fleshy tentacles on snout and above eye. D 1 ■ Vll-Vlll ; 1 1-12. A 1 1-12. L.l. about 70, smooth. Brownish, with variable darker markings. Large dark spots on pel vies. Attains at least 24 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 1067. PLA 1 YCEPHALUS PRISTIS (Peters). [Grammoplites pristis.] Literature L 4, 221, 414. Head ridged and spiny above. 2-3 spines on preopercle. D f rVIl rl2-13. A 13-14. L.l. about 50, the 1st 7 -8 scales spiny. Brownish, with variable darker markings and cross-bars. Rows of dark spots on most fins. Attains at least 9 ins. Tropical east coast of Africa, found as far south as Durban, rare in our area. Will probably be found in the Indo-Pacific. 1068. 1*LA I YCEPHALUS TUBERCULATUS Cuvier & Valenciennes. [Platycephaliis heterolepis Brnrd.] Literature L 4, 152, 247, 328. Head ridged and spiny above. 2 spines on preopercle. D F:-VI1-V1H :-ll-l2. A 11-12. L.l. about 55, the front 15-20 spinose. Brownish, marbled, fins, except anal, spotted. Attains at least 20 ins. Tropical East Indies, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 1069. Pl.ATYCEPHALUS SCABER (Linnaeus). Literature L 4, 47, 326, 328, 383. Ltead ridged and spiny above. 2 spines on preopercle. D l-i-Vll-VllI — 12-13. A 12. L.l. about 55, wholly spiny. Brownish, mottled with darker. .Soft dorsal and pectorals with spots. Attains 9 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban, not uncommon in estuaries. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. - _ Family LIPARIDAE •SEA-SNAILS I.arge broad head with small tapering body. No scales, skin loose and usually smooth. Dorsal and anal confl uent with caudal. No fin spines. Pectorals broad. Pelvics united to form a feeble sucking disc, or absent. Curious small degenerate semi-transparent fishes, some hardly recognisable as such, look more like tadpoles. They are more abundant in northern waters, mostly in shallow water, but many are at great depths, as in our area. They seem to live largely in empty shells, and in some cases the eggs are guarded until they hatch. 3 genera in our area. These fishes are hardly likely ever to be seen by the layman. Our specimens were found by Cjilchrist during his deep-sea investigations. A. Sucking disc present ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Careproctus (1070) B. No sucking disc present. 1. Pectoral simple ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Psednos (1071) 2. Pectoral divided into 2 . Paraliparis (1072-1073) Genus Careproctus Kroyer, genotype Careproctus reinhardti Kroyer. Pelvics modified to a sucking disc. Teeth simple, sometimes tricuspid. Small fishes of deep water of the Indo-Pacific, 1 in our area. 1070. CAREPROCTUS .ALBESCENS Barnard. Literature L 4. Depth about 4i’. D about 50. A about 45. P 18— 17 free lower rays. Skin smooth. Pelvic disc short, diameter less than eye. Gill-opening above pectoral. Live colour unknown, probably dusky. So far known only from a few specimens in poor condition, 2 ins. long, taken oflf Cape Point in 600-800 fathoms. Genus Psednos Barnard, genotype the single species. No pelvic disc. Large head with oblique mouth Pectoral not divided. 1071. PSEDNOS MICRURUS Barnard. Literature L 4. Depth 31 . D about 35. A about 30. P 17. Head large, body merely an appendage, resembles a tadpole. Mouth oblique, lower jaw projects. Live colour unknown. Only 2 specimens taken olf Cape Point in about 700 fathoms. 380 BONY FISHES - Family rERISTEDIl DAll Genus Paraliparis Collett, genotype Paraliparis hathybii Coll. No ventral disc. Mouth horizontal. Pectoral with separate lower portion. Several species. 2 in our area. A. D 48 . B. D 60 . 1072. PARALIPARIS AUSTRALIS Gil¬ christ. Literature L 24, 39. Depth about 4. D about 50. A about 40. P 14-15, • 3 free lower rays. Body almost trans¬ parent. Attains 2 ins. So far found only otf Cape Point in 200-300 fathoms. Possibly the young of No. 1073. australis (1072) copci (1073) 1073. PARALIPARIS COPEI Goode & Bean. Literature L 4. 394. 566. Fig. I07.t. PARALIPARIS COPEI G. & B. After Cioode A Bean. Depth about 51. D about 60. A about 50. P 17-18 • 3-4 free lower rays. Body almost transparent, muzzle and gill-opening black. Attains 7 ins. An Atlantic deep-water form taken off Cape Point in 900 1,(K)0 fathoms. Family PF.RLSTF.DIIDAK SFA ROBINS: CROCODILF FISMFS Elongate body, completely covered by bony plates, each with a lateral spine. Head completely encased in a bony shield. Each preorbital produced forwards into a single projection. 2 free lower pectoral rays. Barbels on lower jaw. Curious degenerate bottom-dwellers of fairly deep water of all but the coldest seas, rather feeble, probably moving towards extinction. They use the pectoral rays and barbels to detect food. Several genera, 1 in our area, Peristedion Lacepede, genotype Tripla cataphracta Linn. 2 species, easily distinguished. A. Dorsal with 14-15 soft rays . adeni (1074) B. Dorsal with 20 soft rays . ... ... . . wehcri (1075) 1074. PERISTEDION ADEN! (Lloyd). .Searobin. Crocodilefish. Literature L 4. 14, 19,39,64,475, 695. Plate 86. p. 369. Head rather flattened. D Vll-Vlll 14-15. .A 14-15. P 1 1 - 2. 14-15 gill-rakers, plus 2-3 rudiments. L.l. plates 30 in all, front 20 with 1, next 7 with 2. and hinder all with 1 spine. 5 small spines on snout. Attains 10 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, occasionally taken in 30-200 fathoms from Algoa Bay eastwards. Fig. 1074. PERISTEDIOS A DEM I.loyd. Actual Icngtti 8 ins. 1156 1155 1157 1153 1152 I PLATE 89 1152. Altilera nioiiocc'rus. 20 ins. 1153. Osbeckia scripla, 36 ins. 1155. Odonus niger, 18 ins. 1156. Ahalistes .v/p/tov.v, 18 ins. 1157. vc'/m/a (after .Iordan & Evermann). 1160. Bo/istoides viridescens. 5 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES ^Families CEPHALACANTHIDAE and TRfGLIDAE 381 1075. PERISTEDION WEBERI Smith. Searobin. Literature L 64. Fig. 1075. PERISTEDION WEBER! Smith. Actual length 7 ins. D VllI 20. A 20. P 1 1 2. 20 gill-rakers. L.l. plates 34, front 23 with one, hinder each with 2 points. No spines on snout. Live colour unknown, probably red or pink. Known from a single specimen 7 ins. long taken ofT Delagoa Bay in 260 fathoms. Family CEPHALACANTHIDAE FLYINC GURNARDS 1076. DAC IM-OPIENA ORIENT, ALIS (Cuvier). Flying Gurnard. Literature L 4, 14. 21, 152, 328, 488, 527. Plate 84, p. 364. Body more or less quadrangular in cross section. D 1-i-l + V • 8. 1st spine elongate, 2nd short. A 6-7. Scales bony, keeled, about 45 series, transverse about 21. 4 enlarged keel-like scales along each side below. Attains 15 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific. reaches as far south as Port Alfred. Sometimes thrown ashore, usually taken in drag-nets. When taken from the water this curious creature throws a series of violent somer¬ saults. each with a loud click, probably the mu.scular action which enables it to leave the water and fly. Robust elongate angular body. Head blunt, completely bony, with strong spines and keels. A bony ridge across the cheek to the preopercle. Enlarged keel-like scales on lower part of body. Granular teeth in jaws. Pectorals enormous, a few detached rays in front. Found in all warm seas except the eastern Pacific. While primarily bottom-feeders, these curious fishes leave the water, and actually fly short distances by vibrations of the pectorals. Probably 4* genera, 1 in our area, Dactyloptcna Jordan & Richardson, genotype the single species. The young have a small soft body, with short pectorals, and the head in a huge bony shield bearing 2 great spines on each side, very like some extinct primitive fishes. Fig. 1076. DACTYLOPTENA ORI- ENTALIS (Cuv.). Juvenile at 1 in. length. (After^Weber). ♦Notf a 2n<.l species. Daicocus peterscni (Nystroml, a Japanese form, has recently been found at East London. Family TRIGLIDAE GL RN A R DS : K NOORH A ANS Rather elongate tapering body, with scales, or covered in bony plates. Head large, almost completely encased in a bony shield. Preorbitals usually produced forwards, with spines. Mouth rather small, with fine teeth, some¬ times on palate also. Barbels sometimes present. Pectorals fairly large, with several lower rays free and enlarged for use as feelers. Mostly highly coloured characteristic rather small sluggish fishes, found in all but the coldest seas, rarely in shallow water. They live mainly on the bottom, feeling for food with the detached pectoral rays. Some occur in fair numbers, and are of importance as food, the flesh being firm and delicious. Most species erunt or croak when taken from the water. Numerous genera, 3 in our area. 382 BONY FISHES Family TRIGLIDAE A. Lateral line not spiny. 1. L.l. less than 70 . Lcpidolrigla (1077-1079) 2. L.l. more than 70 ... ... ... ... ■■■ •.■ (1080-1084) B. Lateral lines scales each with several small spines . Tri^loponis (1085) Genus l.epidotrigla Gunther, genotype Trigla aivil/one Lac. Seales moderate, L.l. less than 70. L.l. scales not spiny. Fine teeth in jaws, and usually on vomer, none on palatines. 3 free pectoral rays. A row of bony plates along each side of dorsal base, each with 1 spine. Numerous species in deepish water of all but the coldest seas, 3 in our area. A. Pectorals at least as long as head. 1. Breast with scales ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... fmrei (\()11) 2. Breast naked . luitaicnsis (\01'6,) B. Pectorals shorter than head . muhispinosus (\'ith dorsal and anal. . y'emicluhyidae {\\07-\\09) Conyridae (1110-1115) Dyssomidae (1116) A/ uraenesocidae (1117) i\ei!astoniidae (1118-1119) Echidnidae ( 1 1 20-1 1 34) Muracnic hthyidae ( I 1 35) Family SVNAPOBR ANCHIOAE Gill-openings fairly wide, close together on ventral surface. Minute rudimentary embedded scales. Snout conical, jaws about equal, mouth to well behind eye. Tongue feeble, small teeth in bands in jaws and on vomer. Smallish eels of deep water of most seas. 2 genera. A. Scales on cheeks ... . ... ... Synapohranclius (\0^9) B. Cheeks naked ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Histiohranchus (\Q90) * For family MORINGUID.AE see Appendi.x. p 50?. 386 BONY FISHES— Family ILYOPHIDAE Genus Synapobranchus Johnson, genotype the single species. Cheeks and head scaly. Dorsal starts behind vent. Pectorals present. 1089. SYNAPOBRANCHUS PINNATUS (Gray). [Synapobranchus kaupii Johns.] Literature L 3, 216, 325, 367, 371, 566, 655. Fig. 1089. SYNAPOBRANCHUS PINNATUS (Grsy). Actual length 15 ins. Pectoral inserted about midway between snout and vent. Length of head about 8 in total length. Rows of fine teeth in jaws, inner slightly largei. Larger conical teeth on vomer. Dusky brown, fins darker. Attains ' 22 ins. Common in deep water of most oceans, has been found in 400-600 fathoms off the Cape to East London. Genus Histiobranehus Gill, genotype the single species. Head entirely naked. Dorsal starts before vent. Pectorals present. 1090. HISTIOBRANCHUS BATinBIUS (Gunther). [Synapobranchus halhybius, or australis Rgn.j Literature L 325, 353, 367, 394, 525. Fig. 1090. HISTIOBRANCHUS BATHYBIUS (Gnthr.). After Goode & Bean. Rows of fine teeth in jaws, inner slightly longer. Larger conical teeth on vomer. Length of head about 8 in total length. Uniform brown. In most oceans in 1.000-2,100 fathoms, has been found off the Cape. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family II.\ OPHIDAF. Gill-openings fairly wide, on ventral surface. Minute scales present. Snout conical, jaws about equal, mouth extends to just behind eye. Tongue feeble. Pectorals present. A single genus Ilvophis Gilbert, genotype Ilyophis hrunneus Gilb. Indo-Pacific, deep water, 2 species in our area. A. Pectoral about § head length B. Pectoral ] head length capensis (1091) hrunneus (1092) 1091. ILYOPHIS C.4PENSIS (Barnard). [Diastohranchus capensis.] Literature L 1,3- Depth about 17, head about 8 and pectoral about 12 in total length. Mouth extends an eye diameter behind eye. Dorsal starts a pectoral length behind anal. Fine teeth in bands, inner enlarged. Larger conical teeth in front part of vomer, also 2 larger behind. Brown. Attains 30 ins. So far found only off Cape Point in 470 fathoms. BONY FISHES— Families SIMENCHELY! DAE und MURAENEDAE 1092. ILYOPHIS BRUNNEUS Gilbert. Literature L 3, 391, 394. Fig. 1092. ILYOPHIS BRUNNEUS Gilb. After Goode & Bean. Oorsal starts above pectoral tip. Pectoral I head length. Fine teeth in bands in jaws. Conical teeth in rows on vomer. Brownish. Attains 15 ins. 600-800 fathoms in the Pacific, has been taken off the Cape also. Family SIMENCHELYIDAE Gill-openings quite wide. Tongue present. Fine scales present. Snout markedly blunt, mouth small. Pectorals present. Teeth incisiform. Unpleasant eels of deep water, live by burrowing into other fishes, a few species over a wide range in most seas. In our area only the genus Simenchelys Goode & Bean, genotype Simen- chely.s parasiticus G. & B., several species, 2 from Japan and I in our area. 1093. .SIMENCHEI.YS P.VR.ASFl ICU.S Goode & Bean. Literature L 3, 394, 406. 1093 Fig. 109.-!. SLMENCHELYS PARASITICUS G. & B. After Collett. An easily recognisable eel, though not likely often to be seen. Lips thick. Teeth incisiform, those on vomer also. Brown. Attains 20 ins. Deep water of the Atlantic, has been taken off Cape Point in 800 fathoms. Lamily MURAEMDAE EELS; PALANGS Gill-openings vertical wide slits. Tongue present. Scales present. Lower jaw projects. Pectorals present. Dorsal and anal enveloped in thick skin, confluent with caudal. Only 1 genus Muraena Linnaeus, with a few species in the fresh waters of the world. .At present all are supposed to be Katadromous, i.e., to return to the sea to spawn, the young then going inland. The European eel has been found to travel to the deeps of the Carib¬ bean w here it spawns and, apparently, dies. The young, "Leptocephaius", transparent band-like creatures with tiny heads, travel back across the Atlantic, taking 3 years over the journey. By that time they have changed to recognisable small eels or "elvers”, and enter the rivers, going up to and living in fresh water for some years before repeating the cycle. The entry of the vast numbers of elvers is repeatedly observed in many European rivers, where they are netted for food. It has been stated without proper investigation that our eel must breed in the same way, and the deeps off Madagascar have been cited as the probable oceanic spawning ground. The author of this work considers it possible that our eel has a different life-cycle, and the matter is being investi¬ gated. Only 1 species in our area, properly a fresh-water fish. 388 BONY FISHES— Family OPHICHTHI DAE 1094. IVIURAENA MOSSAMBICA (Peters). [Anguilla mossamhica.] Eel. Palang. Literature L 3, 288. Fig. 1094. MURAENA MOSSAMBICA (Peters). Actual length 24 ins. Dorsal originates about midway between peetoral base and vent. Mouth to or just behind margin of eye. Small teeth in bands in jaws and on vomer. Brown or greenish or bluish above, belly whitish. Found in most inland waters of the Cape. Natal, and Transvaal and further north. Attains at least .30 lbs. in the rivers of the eastern Cape, but there are aeeounts of monsters of over 50 lbs. in some parts. If our eel returns to the sea to spawn we might e.xpeet the elvers to be seen in our estuaries, but they are at present virtually unknown. The eel is excellent eating. Family OPHICHTHIDAE SER PEN I EELS : SLANG ETJ I ES Gill-openings moderate slits. Tongue present. No scales. Dorsal and anal poorly developed, not round tail, whieh is pointed, tree, without fin at end. These eels are found in all warm seas, many living in sand, others about reefs. Most are able to burrow rapidly in sand or mud, tail first. Abundant on tropical beaches, some are captured by throwing crushed crab or shrimps into the edge of the surf, when the eels eome out of the sand. Though they have no big teeth, they give painful bites when handled, area. (For Leiuranus and Myrkiuhys see .Appendix, p. 503.) .A. No peetorals . B. Pectorals present. 1. Teeth granular, blunt. (a) Fringe of fine barbels on upper lip (/)) No fringe of barbels on upper lip 2. Teeth sharp. (fl) Snout short, jaws not long. (i) Teeth small, equal ... (ii) Some longer canines present (b) Snout long and pointed Not many genera, most of them in our . O/cci/A; ( 1095-1098) Cirrhimuraena (1099) Piscxionopliis ( 1 l(X)) Ophichthus (1101-1104) Mystriophis (1105) O phi sums (1106) Genus Caecula Vahl, genotype Caecula apterygera Vahl. of tropical seas, 4 in our area. Pectorals absent. Eyes small. Numerous species A. Snout about twice eye. I. Dorsal starts in advance of gill-opening . kirkiiimS) 2. Dorsal starts over gill-opening . ■ natulciisis ( 1 096) 3. Dorsal starts behind gill-opening . . ■ . hrevirostris (\Q91) B. Snout about 4 times eye . . or/enra/A ( 1098) BONY FISHES — Family OPHICHTHI DAE 389 1095. CAECULA KIRKH (Gunther). [Ophiclithys kirkii.] Literature L 47, 296. distance from gill-slit to vent. Snout about twice eye. Mouth extends more than an eye diameter behind eye Dorsal starts well before gill-opening. Probably grey-green in life. Attains 14 ins. Tropical east coast of Africa, has been found at Kosi Bay. 109<>. CAECUl.A NATALENSrS Fowler. Literature L 19. Head about 4 5 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Eye about 2 in snout. Rudimentary dorsal begins over gill-opemng. Small pointed teeth in 1 row in each jaw, 2 rows on vomer. Greenish olive above, finely speckled . Known from a single specimen 12 ins. 1097. CAPXUI A BREVIROSI RFS (Peters). Literature L. 288. Head about 31 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Eye about 2 in snout. Mouth extends well behind eye. Dorsal starts behind gill-opening. Fine-pevinted teeth mainly in 1 row in each jaw, 2 in front of upper. Greenish olive above. Attains 14 ins. Tropical east Africa and Madagascar, has been found in Delagoa Bay. 109S. CAECUI.A ORIENTALLS McClell. Literature L I, 328. Head about 3 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Eye about 4 in snout. Mouth extends well behind eye. Dorsal rudimentary, starts about over gill-slits. Teeth in I series in each jaw, and on vomer. Attains 12 ins. Common in Indian seas, has been found offTugela mouth. Natal, in 37 fathoms. long from Umgeni, Natal. [Ophichthys or Sphagehranchus fuscus Zuiew or hrevirostris.] Fig. 1097, CAECULA BREVIROSTRIS (Ptrs ). .After Sauvage. [Ophichthys orientaiis. Spha^ehranchus cicuticeps Brnrd.] Genus C irrhimuraena Kaup, genotype Cirrhimuraena chinensis Kaup. Pectorals present. Teeth blunt and granuhir. Upper lip with a fringe of long fine barbels. Tropical Indo-Pacific. a few species, 1 in our area. 1099. CIRRMIMLR.AEN.A PL.AVb.AIRII (Gunther). [Ophichthys playfairii.] Literature L 3, 296. Head about 3J in distance from gill-slits to vent. Snout about 2i times eye. Mouth extends almost 2 eye diameters behind eye. Teeth granular in 3 rows in each jaw, 5 rows on vomer. Probably olive-grey in life. Attains at least 25 ins. So far found only at Delagoa Bay and Zanzibar. Genus Pisodonophis Kaup, genotype Pisodonophis cancrivorus Kaup. Pectorals present. Teeth blunt, granular. Upper lip smooth. Tropical Indo-Pacific, often entering estuaries. Not many species. 2* in our area. MOO. PISODONOPHIS BORO ( Hamilton-Buchanan). [Ophistirus or Ophichthys horo.] Literature L 6, 72. 268, 328. ,s44. Fig. 1100. PISODONOPHIS BORO (H.-B.). Actual length 20 ins. * For 1100a see Appendix, p. 503 390 BONY FISHES-^Family OPH/CHTHJDAE Vent to tip of tail 1 1 times as long as vent to snout tip. Head about 3J in distance from gill-opening to vent. Snout about 3 times eye. Lower jaw shorter, mouth extends an eye diameter behind eye. Dorsal starts a pectoral length behind pectoral tip. Light brown above, lighter below. Attains at least 40 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific even to fresh water, has been found as far south as Xora River, rare in our area. Genus Ophichthus Ahl, genotype Mwaena ophis Linn. Pectorals present. Teeth sharp, small, equal. Snout conical, but jaws not long and pointed. Fairly numerous species of all tropical seas, mainly shallow sandy areas, entering estuaries. 5 species in our area. A. Body with large regular blotches (llOla, Appendix, p. 503) and . iriscrialis (1011) B. Body more or less uniform. 1. Head about 23 in distance from gill-opening to vent. (fl) Dorsal starts behind pectoral . iinico/or {]\Q2) (/)) Dorsal starts above pectoral . apicalis {\ 103) 2. Head about 6 in distance from gill-opening to vent . man;inatu.s { \ 104) 1101. OPHICHTHUS TRISERIALIS Kaup. [Ophichrhus retifer ¥v,]r.] Literature L 21, 225, 655. Plate 99, p. 418. Head about 12 in total length. Eye about 2 in snout. Vent midway between tip of tail and base of pectoral. A single series of fairly strong conical teeth at the sides of each jaw, usually 2-3 in front. A single series on vomer. Attains at least 40 ins. Tropical Atlantic and Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal. 1102. OPHICHTHUS UMCOLOR Regan. [Opbichthys imicolor. Ophichthys a/goensis Brnrd.] Literature L 3. 52. Head about 21 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Tail almost twice length of rest of fish. Eye about 2 in snout. Dorsal starts just behind pectoral tip. Mouth extends below hind margin of eye. Pointed even teeth in 2-3 series in each jaw. Brownish. Attains 12 ins. Known only from 40-50 fathoms in Algoa Bay. 1103. OPHICHTHUS .AP1C.4LIS ( Bennett). Literature L 3, 268. 296, 544. Plate 99, p. 418. Dorsal starts over pectoral, each jaw, in 2 rows on vomer. Brown, reaches as far south as Durban, not common Head about 2i in distance from gill-opening to vent. Eye about 2 in snout Mouth extends below hind margin of eye. Pointed e\en teeth in 1 row in Attains at least 20 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, here. 1104. OPHICHTHLS M.ARGIN.AIUS (Peters). [Opliinrus or Oxystomus or Opbichthys mareinafiis.] Literature L 4, 72. 221, 275. Head about 17 in total length, about 6 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Tail 1.', times as long as rest offish. Pectoral 5 in head. Uniform light brown. Attains 20 ins. Tropical east coast of Africa, has been found as far south as Knysna. Genus Mystriophis Kaup, genotype Ophisurus rosiellatus Rich. Pectorals present. Teeth sharp, generally some larger canines. Jaws not very long. Dorsal usually starts about end of pectoral. A few species from tropical seas, 1 in our area. 1105. M\STRI0PHIS ROSTELLATUS Richardson. [Ophiebihys roste/kilus.] Literature L 3, 187,296. ^ Head about 3 m distance from gill-opening to vent. Tail almost twice as long as rest of fish. Eye about 2-^ in snout. Snout rather flattened and constricted so that the end bulges somewhat. Mouth extends behind eye. Teeth unequal, 2 series in each jaw, inner smaller, canines in front and on vomer. Dorsal starts behind end of pectoral, which is 4 in head. Brownish above, lighter below. Attains at least 4 ft. Only on the tropical west coast of Africa, has been found at Walfish Bay. PLATE 91 1166. Caiithidermis maculalus fafter Bleeker). 1168. Pseudohatisles /uscils, 10 in.s. 1169. K/iinecanihii.s uciik’unis 6 ins. 1170. Rhinecanihiis rectangulus, 1 ins. 1171. Balisiapu-i iimliilui us, 1 ins. Actual length stated in each case. ’ BONY FISHES -Family NEMICHTH YIDAH 391 Genus Ophisurus Lacepede, genotype Muraena serpens Linn. Pectorals present. Teeth sharp, unequal, canirjes in front of jaws. Jaws long and pointed, mouth extends well behind eye. Dorsal starts well behind Pectoral. A few species of tropical seas, often in estuaries, 1 in our area. 1I06. OPHISURUS SERPENS (Linnaeus). [Ophichlhys or Oxystomus serpens. Leptorhynchus capensis Smith,] Slangetjie. Sandsnake. Literature L 3, 58, 328, 544. Plate 99, p. 418. Head about 4 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Eye 2-3 in snout. Snout long and slender. Teeth in 1-.2 series in jaws, canines in front. 1 row on vomer. Stated to attain at least 10 ft. in tropical waters- ^'Hespread and abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, enters and lives in estuaries, also known in the i^editcrranean. Found throughout our region, abundant in estuaries, lives in mud and sand, lies buried with the head out waiting for prey. Bites fiercely if handled, and when dropped burrows tail first with extra- ^•"Oinary speed. In our area rarely exceeds 3 ft., good bait and good eating Often taken by sea-birds, both ‘^^^^rrriorants and sea-gulls have been seen battling to subdue one of these eels, not always with success. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Fa mi ly NEMICHTHYIDAE SNIPE EEI.S Long slender compressed fragile body, with fine tapering tail, and elongated almost needle-like jaws, much produeed. The head is somewhat flattened on top. Dorsal and anal confluent with distinct rayed caudal at tip of tail. Pectorals present. Vent far forward. Curious fragile eels of deep water, rarely found intact. Not many species, and some doubtful, as it is rare to find perfect specimens. Likely to be seen only by the expert using special equipment. Of about 6 genera, 3 in our area. A.. Dorsal starts on head ... Nemiclitliys (1107) li. Dorsal starts over pectoral . .Avoceltina (1108) C. Dorsal starts behind anal Serrivomer (1109) Genus .Ncmichthys Richardson, genotype Semichthys scolopacea Rich. Dorsal starts above or in advance of gill-openings. Head rather robust. Several species described, possibly only one. 1107. NEMICHIMYS SCOLOP.XCE.A Richardson. Snipe Eel. Literature L 3, 394, 462. Depth about 60, head about 10 in total length. 3 rows of pores in L.l. Attains at least 60 ins., usually smaller. In the tropics of all oceans, 300 1 ,(X)0 fathoms, has been found off the Cape to Natal. Fig. 1107. SEMICHTH YS SCOLOPACE.4 Rich. Actual length 20 ins. Genus .\vocettina Jordan & Davis, genotype Semichthys infans Gunther. Dorsal originates over pectoral. 1 series of pores in L.l. Probably only ! species. 1 108. AVOCETTIN.4 INFANS (Gunther). Snipe Eel. Literature L 3, 329, 367, 394, 462, 544, 655. Depth about 45, head about 10 in total length. Upper jaw almost 4 times, lower 2h times, rest of head. Dorsal starts just behind pectoral base. Dusky brown. Attains about 30 ins. In all tropical oceans at 300-2,500 fathoms, has been taken off the Cape. 392 BONY FISHES- Family CONGRIDAE Genus Serrivomer Gill, genotype the single species. Head long and slender. Oorsal starts far back, behind anal origin. 1109. SERRIVOMER BE.4NII Gill. Thread Eel. Literature L 3, .394, 462, 544, 655. Head about 6 in total length, .laws long and pointed but shorter than postorbital part of head. Silvery with darker speckles. Attains 24 ins. Depths of tropical seas to 1,200 fathoms, has been found off our south coast. Family CONCJRIDAE CONGERS: CONGER EELS: F’ALANGS Rather robust body without scales. Gill-openings wide. Dorsal and anal conlluenl with caudal, covered with thick skin. Mouth large, but not extending much behind eye. Teeth strong, but no large canines in jaws. Powerful and vigorous eels which have colonised most seas, penetrating to some depth, while some species inhabit brackish and eveti fresh water. The larger species are excellent eating and of importance as food in many parts, but are not abundant in our area. Not many genera, 3 in our area. •A. Front nostril tubular. 1. Outer teeth close together forming a cutting edge . Coiif'cr (1110-1111) 2. Teeth not forming a cutting edge . Ariosoma (1112-1113) B. Front nostril not tubular . Urocoiii^cr (1114 1115) Genus Conger Houttuyn, genotype Muracna conger Linn. Robust body. Dorsal origin behind pectoral base. Outer teeth close together forming a powerful cutting edge. Small teeth in a band on vomer. Front nostril tubular. Large eels found in most seas excepting only the eastern Pacific. 2 species. .A. Dorsal starts about above tip of pectoral . conger (1110) B. Dorsal starts over middle of pectoral . cinereus (1111) 1110. CONGER CONGER (Linnaeus). [Conger vulgaris Cuv.] Conger. Conger Eel. C'ongro (Portu¬ guese). Literature L 3, 296, 395. Easily recognisable by the absence of scales, large mouth not beyond eye, with teeth forming a cutting edge, dorsal originating about above tip of pectoral. Colour varies from light grey to black. Attains at least 8 ft. Found in almost all seas down to 100 fathoms, quite often in estuaries, but not on the west coast of America. Known from the Cape to Delagoa Bay, often in estuaries, not abundant here. The flesh is excellent. A dangerous fish. Large Congers are much dreaded as they are difficult to kill and most vicious, and many a fisherman has been seriously mutilated. A large live Conger hauled into a small boat in a rough sea by an inexperienced amateur created a situation full of intense action. BONY FISHES -Family CONOR! DAE 393 1111. CONGER CINEREUS Ruppell. [Conger noordzicki or mar^inalus W ’A.] Navia (East Indies). Literature L 3, 151, 179, 268, 296, 544, 580. Plate 99, p. 418, juvenile and adult. Much like No. 1 1 10, but distinguished by the dorsal starting further forward, while the pectoral is usually light at base and black for distal half. The young are mostly golden, the adults less colourful. Attains at least 60 ins. Tropical Indo- Pacific, as far south as the Bashee, the commonest eel of tropical tide-pools. Genus Ariosoma Swainson, genotype Muraena halearica de la R. Body fairly robust, rather flabby, with loose skin bearing small cilia. Large mouth, not beyond eye. Teeth fairly small, outer series not forming a cut¬ ting edge. In most oceans, usually in deeper water. Only few species, not properly investigated, rather variable, 2 in our area. A. Gill-slit as wide as interspace . ... . . anago {\\\2) B. Gill-slit half as wide as interspace ... ... ... . ••• ••. halearica {\\\3) 1112. ARIOSOMA ANA(;0 (Schlegel). [Conger, or Congermuraena, or Congrellus, or Anago anago.] Totodi (East Indies). Literature L 3, 194, 328, 430, 544. t-ig. 1112. ARIOSOMA ANAGO (Schl.). After Day. Head about 2;,* in distance from snout tip to vent, which is almost I of total length. Lips rather thin. Dorsal starts about above pectoral base. Brownish or grey, fins yellowish. Attains at least 24 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal in 20 fathoms. 1113. ARIOSOMA BALEARICA (de la Roche). [Congermuraena halearica, or albescens Brnrd., or aus¬ tralis Brnrd.] Bocavante (Portuguese). Literature L 1, 3, 566, 655. 1113 Gill-slit about half as wide as interspace. Dorsal origin variable, somewhere above pectoral. Head length variable, 2\-3\ in distance from snout tip to vent, which is slightly less than .V total length. Brownish to greyish, lighter below, dorsal and anal with or without dark edging. Attains at least 30 ins. Mediterranean and tropical Atlantic, mostly in deep water, has been found as far as Algoa Bay in 100 fathoms, taken only by trawl. A vari¬ able species. Good eating. Genus Uroconger Kaup, genotype Congrus lepturus Rich. Elongate robust body, tapering to a point behind. Lront nostril not tubular. Teeth moderate, unequal in size, canines on vomer. A few species, most probably artificial, some in deep water of tropical seas. Possibly only one species, 2 are provisionally accepted m our area. A. Only 2 teeth on vomer B. More than 2 teeth on vomer vicinus (1114) lepturus (1115) 1114. UROCONGER VICINUS Vaillant. Literature L 3, 371, 394, 655. Head 2\ in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about ^ of total length. Eye about 2 in snout. Gill- slits less than interspace. Only 2 canines on vomer. Brownish, fins darker. Attains 26 ms. Eastern tropical Atlantic 300-700 fathoms, has been found off the Cape. 394 BONY FISHES— Families DYSSOMl DAE cmd MURAENESOCIDAE 1115. UROCONGER LEPTURGS (Richardson). Literature L 3, 187, 268, 296, 544. Head 21 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about of total length. Eye about 3 in snout. Gill- slits wider than interspace. 1-2 series of small teeth on vomer. Blackish or brownish, fins darker. Attains at least 17 ins. Widespread but not abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found off Natal and Zululand down to 30 fathoms. Family DYSSOMIDAE Elongate compressed body. Mouth extends behind eye, teeth small. No scales. Dorsal and anal united with rayed caudal. A few Conger-like eels of deep water of the Indian Ocean, in our area only the genus Dyssoma .Alcock. genotype Dyssoma bucephahis Alcock, with 1 species here. 1116. DYSSOMA ANGLULEARIS Barnard. Literature L 1,3. Length of head about 7 in total length. Dorsal starts above gill-opening. Anal starts below middle of pectoral. Eye about 4 in snout. Teeth of variable size, the larger each with fleshy base. Mouth extends 2 dia¬ meters behind eye. Probably greyish in life. So far only 1 specimen. 14 ins. long, found off Tugela Mouth in 60 fathoms. Probably the same as the Indian species hucephalus Ale. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family MURAENESOCIDAE Very long body, only tail compressed. Snout elongate, mouth large, extends far behind eye. Teeth large, formidable. Pectorals present. No scales. A few large eels which have colonised most seas, in estuaries and even in fresh water. Dangerous to handle. Flesh excellent. Only one genus, Muraenesox McClelland, genotype Muraenesox tricuspidata McCL, with I species in our area. 1117. MURAENESOX CINEREUS (Forskal). [Muraeua or Muraenesox arahica BL, or longirosiris Benn., or tricuspidata McCL] Conger Pike. .Silver Conger. Putje-Kanipa (East Indies). Literature L 47, 328, 544. Vent about midway in body. Pectoral about 3 in head. Mainly silvery, with grey to yellow sheen. Attains at least 7 ft. Widespread and quite abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Knysna. Enters estuaries. Abundant in Delagoa Bay, valued as food, but a nasty brute to handle. Fig. 1117. Head of MURAENESOX CINEREUS (Forsk.). From specimen 5 ft. long. BONY FISHES— Families NETTASTOM! DAE and ECHIDNIDAE Family NETTASTOMIDAE 395 h. ^'ongalc Iragile naked body. Mouth large, snout pointed, upper jaw longer, with small pointed teeth in nds. ]s|o pectorals. Dorsal starts about above gill-opening. A few eels of deep water of tropical seas not to be seen by any but experts seeking them. 2 genera. A. Snout with fleshy projection in front B. Snout long but normal Venefica (1118) Neltasloma (1119) Genus Venefica Jordan & Davis, genotype Nettastoma procerum G. & B. Snout with slender fleshy process in front. 2 species in most oceans, 1 in our area. 1118- VENEFICA PROBOSCIDEA (Vaillant). Literature L 3, 371, 655. Long thin fragile body without pectorals. Snout flattened, with fleshy projecting tip. Dorsal starts about above gill-slits. Eye about 9 in snout. Brownish. Attains 40 ins. Eastern Atlantic at about 1,000 fathoms, nas been found off the Cape in 700 fathoms. Genus Nettastoma Rafinesque, genotype Nettastoma melanura Raf. Snout elongate, flattened like a duck’s bill, upper jaw longer, no fleshy projection at tip. Few species, 1 Indo-Pacific in our area. 1119. NET ! AST O.MA FARVICEPS Gunther. Literature L 3, 325, 367. Fig. 1119. NETTASTOMA PARVtCEPS Gnthr. After Gunther. Brownish. Attains 26 ins. Deep water of the central Indo-Pacific, has been found from East London to Durban to 400 fathoms. Family ECHIDNIDAE MORAY EELS; KWATL.M.AS Robust naked body, sometimes elongate, with thick tough skin. No pectorals. Gill-openings small. Hind nostril above eye. Mouth large, extends behind eye, sometimes not able to close completely. Teeth powerful, of various types, sometimes fang-like and depressible. Of all Eels these are the most “ snaky ” in appearance and general behaviour. Most are aggressive, almost savage, and attack without provocation. Possessed of almost unbelievable strength and ferocity, the larger species are among the most dangerous of all marine creatures, and much dreaded by divers in tropical seas. When working about reefs in warmer seas it is folly to poke a hand into blind crevices, and no pleasant experience to tear loose from the vice-like grip of one of these brutes. They live mainly in and about reefs, and some are brilliantly or strikingly marked. Moderate number of genera, 5 in our area. A. Dorsal and anal fins developed. 1. Teeth blunt . 2. Teeth sharp. (tr) Tail about twice body length . (/)) Tail not twice body length. (i) Depressible fangs in mid front of upper jaw... (ii) Mid front teeth short, fixed, blunt . B. No dorsal and anal fins ... . . Echidna (1120-1122) Thyrsoidea (1123) Lycodontis (1124-1130) Siderea (1131) Uropterygius (1 132-1 134) 396 BONY FISHES— Family ECHIDNIDAE Genus Echidna Forster, genotype Echidna variegata Forster. Dorsal starts on head. Teeth rather blunt. Front nostril tubular. In all tropical seas, not many species, 3 in our area. A. Vent much nearer tip of tail than head ... . ... ... zebra (1120) B. Vent about midway. 1. Many light cross-bars . polyozona (1121) 2. Many large blotches . nehiilosa (1122) 1120. ECHIDNA ZEBRA (Shaw). Literature L 4, 127, 268, 296, 328, 544. Plate 103, p. 505. Head about 5 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about twice as long as from vent to tip of tail. Granular teeth in 2 short series in upper, in 3-4 scries in lower jaw. A pear-shaped patch on vomer. Attains at least 50 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacilic, has been found in reefs near Delagoa Bay. A beautiful creature, but vicious. 1121. ECHIDNA POLYOZONA (Richardson). Literature L 3, 47, 268, 544. Plate 103, p. 505, Juvenile and adult, Head about 3J in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about equal to rest of fish. Blunt conical teeth in 2 series in each jaw-, a pear-shaped group on vomer. Brown, with 24-29 narrow light rings round body and over fins mueh like No. 1120. Attains at least 24 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacilic, reaches as far south as Durban. 1122. ECHIDNA NEBl l.OSA (Ahl). Literature L 3, 47, 268, 461, 544. Plate 99, p. 418. Head about 4.1 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about equal to rest of fish. 1-2 .series of blunt conical teeth in each jaw, 2 scries on vomer. Markings somewhat variable, but main pattern distinct. Attains at least 30 ins. Widespread and abundant in the central tropical Indo-Pacilic, reaches as far south as Port .Alfred, quite common in rock pools north of Durban. Fairly easy to capture and rather timid, but bites when cornered. For lull information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus Thyrsoidea Kaup, genotype the single species. Very elongate body, tail twice as long as the rest. Teeth conical, sharp. Eye in front of head. 1123. THARSOIDE.A M.ACRLR.A (Bleeker). [Evenchelvs muenirus.] Ponipa (East Indies). Literature L 47, 268, 544. Fig. 1123. THYRSOIDEA MACRURA (BIkr.). From specimen 30 ins. long. Head about 4 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about half of the length of the rest of the fish. Unequal conical teeth in both jaws, some fangs depressible. I series on vomer. Olive-brown. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as the Bashee. The longest and possibly the largest known Eel, growing to be over 10 ft. in length. Often found in rivers. Not usually aggressive, but dangerous when cornered. BONY FISHES— Family ECHIDNIDAE 397 Genus Lycodontis McClelland, genotype Lycodontis literata McCI. Dorsal and anal fins present. Sharp depressible canines in mid front of upper jaw. Hind nostril not tubular. Vent about midway. The most tenacious and vigorous of Eels, many strikingly marked, found in all tropical seas. Most are pugnacious, those attaining any size being dangerous. Commonly inhabit reefs. Numerous species, distinguished almost solely by markings and colour, but as the full variation from Juvenile to adult is not known in many cases, these fishes are not always easy to identify. At least 10* species on our shores. A. Only 1 series of teeth in upper jaw or at most 4 teeth in an inner series also. 1. Light spots all smaller than eye 2. Light spots big as eye on tail. (a) Spots yellow, irregular . (h) Spots bluish, in 3-4 regular rows 3. Large dark blotches. 2 species illustrated . 4. Mottled or marbled, sometimes small dark spots. (a) Gill-opening in a dark spot . {h) Gill-opening not in a dark spot . punctatus ( 1 1 24) nudivomer (1125) stelUferus (1126) favagineus (1127) tessellata ( 1 1 27a) flavomarginatus (1128) undulalus (1129) B. 2 series of teeth in upper jaw, with more than 5 in the inner series meleagris ( 1 1 30) Fig. 1124. LYCODONT/S PUNCTATUS iSchn.). After Day. 1125. I.VCODONriS NUDIVOMER (Gunther). [Mwaena or Gyninotitorax nudi- vonicf.] Literature L 47, 273. 1124. LYCODONTIS PUNCTATUS (Schneider). [Gymnothorax punctatus.] Literature L 127, 187, 328. Head about 3^ in distance from snout tip to vent, which is just less than rest of fish. Eye about 2 in snout. Only 1 series of teeth in each jaw. Attains at least 4 ft. Tropical Indian Ocean, has been found in Delagoa Bay. Llesh stated to be poisonous. Head about 31, in distance from snout f.,g 1125 LYCODONTIS NUDIVOMER {Gnx^c). tip to vent, which is somewhat shorter than rest Actual length 30 ins. of fish. Eye 22-3 in snout. Only I series of teeth in each jaw. No teeth on vomer. .Always yellowish spots bigger than eye on tail, vary from crowded to widely separated. Attains at least 40 ins. Widespread and not uncommon in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Pondoland. Dangerous to capture and handle. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 1126. L\ CODON FIS STELLIFERLS (Richardson). [Muraena or Gymnothorax steUifera or margarito- phorus Blkr.] Literature L 3, 187, 267, 268, 544. Plate 100, p. 420. Head about 3i in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about i of rest of fish. Eye about 1| in snout. Only 1 series of teeth in each jaw, several large depressible fangs in front of upper jaw. 1 row of teeth on vomer. Brown with 3-4 regular rows of large bluish spots. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, uncommon, has been found at Kosi Bay, rare in our area. * For 1124a and 1129a see Appendix, p. 510. 398 BONY FISHES Family ECHIDNIDAE 1127. LYCODONTIS FAVAGINEUS (Bloch-Schneider). [Munieiui or Gynmoihorax jcivagiiieus.] Moray Eel. Kwatuma. Literature L 3, 47, 268, 544. Fig. 1127. LYCODONTIS EAVAGINEUS (Bl.-Schn.). Actual length 18 ins. Head about 3|-4 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about equal to rest of fish. Eye about 2i-3 in snout. 1-2 series of teeth on vomer and in each jaw, large depressible fangs in front of upper jaw. An un¬ mistakable fish. Attains at least 6 ft. Widespread and well known in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Port Alfred, not uncommon in Natal, a nasty brute. 1127a. LYCODONTIS TESSELL,\TA (Richardson). [Muraena or Ciynuioiliorax tcsscHata.] .Moray Eel. Kwatuma. (Transkei). Literature L 268. 544. Fig. 1127a. LYCODONTIS TESSELLATA (Rich.). Actual length 40 ins. Head about 3j in distance from snout tip to vent. Eye about 2.1 in snout. 1-2 series of fangs on vomer and in jaws. Large depressible canines in front of jaw's. Distinctive in pattern at all stages, the reticulations often yellowish. Attains 5 ft. Widespread and quite common in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as East London. A dangerous brute, often found about old wrecks. 1128. LYCODONTIS FL.W’O.M.ARGIN.ATL'S (Ruppell). [ Uwacna or Gyniiioihorcix fiavonu/ryinatus or ffavimarginala, or javanica Blkr.. or hatuensis Blkr., or fonnosus Blkr.] Kwatuma (Transkei). Literature L 3. 47, 268, 328, 461, 544. Plate 100, p. 420. Head about 31 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about equal to rest offish. Eye about I in snout . In each jaw I series of teeth, depressible fangs in front of upper jaw. Teeth on vomer diverge in front. Common¬ ly with small crowded dark spots, gill-opening in a dark spot. .Attains at least 5 ft. Central Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as the Bashee. An aggressive and determined brute. 1129. LYCODONTIS L'NDUL.ATUS (Lacepede). [Muraena or Gymnolhorax undulaius or richardsoni Blkr., synonymy voluminous.] Kwatuma (Transkei). Literature L 3, 130, 187, 268, 296, 328, 461, 544. Plate 100, p. 420. Head 3-31 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about equal to rest of fish. Eye about IJ in snout. In both jaws 1 series of teeth, in upper often 2 inner teeth. Depressible fangs in upper jaw. Vomer with teeth, irregularly spaced. Dorsal starts over gill-opening or further forward. .Spotted to mottled, variable. Attains at least 5 ft. Tropical west Africa and central Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Xora River. Variable in form and markings, has been described under many different names. This is a particularly aggressive brute. PLATE 92 1173. Acanthostracion triconus. 12 ins. 1174. Tetrosomtis concatenatus, 2J ins. 1176. Ostracion /entiginosum, 7 ins. 1177. Osircicion tuherciihilui. 10 ins. 1178. Lactoria coniulits 10 ins. 1180. Lactoria fornasini, 5 im. 1184. Lopho- cliodun calori, 5 ins. 1187. Cydichthys antennatus (after Jordan & Evermann). Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES-Family MURA ENICHTH Y/DAE 399 1130. LYCODONTIS MELEAGRIS (Shaw). [Muraena or Gymnotliorax meleagris, or chlorostigma Bikr., and many other synonyms.] Literature L 3, 47, 268, 544. Plate 99, p. 418. Head variable, 3-4 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about as long as rest of body. Eye about 2 in snout. 2 series of teeth in upper jaw, depressible fangs in front, 1 series in lower jaw and on vomer. Attains at least 40 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban. Genus Siderea Kaup, genotype Muraena pfeifferi Blkr. Dorsal and anal fins present. Teeth sharp, those jn mid front of upper jaw rather short, blunt and fixed. Hind nostril not tubular. Vent about midway. Few species of the tropical Indo-Pacific, 2 in our area. (For 1131a see Appendix, p. 503.) 1131. SIDEREA PICT A (Ahl.). [Muraena or Gymnotliorax or Lycodontis pictus, or pfeifferi Blkr., and many other synonyms.] Literature L 3, 47, 268, 296, 328, 461, 544. Plate 103, p. 505. Head about 3] in distance from snout tip to vent, which is just longer than rest of fish. Eye about 21 in snout. In each jaw 1 series of teeth, those in front conical, not sharp, fixed. Vomerine teeth short and blunt, diverge in front. Markings variable, in the young there are dark spots almost as long as eye. sometimes as ocelli, while with growth the spots tend to unite in groups. Adults often with numerous tiny dark spots. Attains at lea.st 30 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Mossel Bay. Genus L'ropterygius Ruppell, genotype Uropterygius concolor Rupp. Naked body without any fins, or at most a rudiment near end of tail. Hind nostril not, partly, or fully tubular. Teeth usually in several series, the outer small and close set, the inner larger. A few species from tropical seas, 3 in our area, distinguished mainly by colour. A. Tail about * total length ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... tigrinus {\] 32) B. Tail about A total length. 1. Uniform brown . concolor (\] 33) 2. Mottled ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... marmoratus (\\34) 1132. UROPTERYGIU-S TIGRINUS (Lesson). [Gymnomuraena tigrina.] Literature L 3, 19, 268, 461, 544. Plate 99, p. 418. Head about 8 in distance from tip of snout to vent, which is about twice rest of fish. Eye about 2] in snout. Hind nostril with raised margin, not as long as front nostril. 2 series of teeth in each jaw. Attains at least 4 ft. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, rather rare, extends as far south as Durban. 1133. UROPTERYGIUS CONCOLOR (Ruppell). [Gymnomuraena concolor.] Literature L 54, 161, 296, 506, 544. Plate 99, p. 418. Head about 4 in distance from tip of snout to vent, which is about equal to or slightly shorter than rest of fish. Eye about 2 in snout. Hind nostril with raised margin. Usually brownish, sometimes a yellow rudiment of fin near tip of tail. Attains at least 20 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 1134. UROPTERYGIUS \U\RMOR.\TLS (Lacepede). [Gymnomuraena marmorata, or xanthopterus Blkr.] Literature L 55, 130, 268, 296, 328, 544. Plate 100, p. 420. Head about 4.) in distance from snout tip to vent, which is slightly less than rest of fish. Eye about 2\ in snout. Hind nostril with raised margin, semi-tubular in adult. .Attains at least 36 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban, rare in our area. Family MURAEMCHTHYIDAE Elongate slender cylindrical naked body. Gill-openings small. No pectorals. Dorsal originates far back. Hind nostril below eye, with flap above. Teeth conical, not fang-like. A few small virtually colourless eels from warm shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific. Only 1 genus Muraenichthys Bleeker, genotype Muraenichthys gym- nopterus Blkr., with a few species, 1 in our area. 400 BONY FISHES— Family TRIACANTHODIDAE 1135. MURAENICHTHYS GYMNOTUS Bleeker. Literature L 5, 268, 296, 544. Fig. 1135. MURAENICHTHYS GYMNOTUS Wkv. After Bleeker. Vent about midway. Head about 1 1 in total length. Eye about 2,| in snout. Greyish yellow. Attains 7 ms. East Indies and tropical east coast of Africa, has once been found on the Bredasdorp coast. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER BALISTOIDEA (1136-1171) TRIGGER-FISHES: FILE FISHES: LEAIHER .JACKETS: SCRAPERS Body mostly compressed and fairly deep. Scales absent or modified, frequently enlarged and marginally coalesced to form a hard covering. Premaxilla and maxilla coalesced. Teeth normal, not united. Gill-openings restricted. Fin spines mostly rudimentary or reduced, but there is usually a separate anterior dorsal of 1 3 spines, the first always much the largest, usually able to be locked erect by a special mechanism described in detail under MONACANTHIDAE and BALISTIDAE. Most ot these fishes have feeble swimming powers and are mainly of warm .seas, few in deep water. Their unusual appearance always excites curiosity. 4 families. A. Skin fairly soft. 1. Pelvics each of a, stout spine . Triacamlunlickw (1136) 2. Pelvics united to one spiny process . A/m/ucmiz/rnfac (1 137-1 149) 3. Pelvics absent (in adult) . (1 152-1 154) B. Skin hard, large bony scales . Balisiukw ( M 55 1 1 7 1 ) Family TRIAC.ANTHODIDAE Fairly compressed body, with small spiny scales, not each of a spine and one feeble soft ray. The pelvic spine can be locked erect. A nasal pit. No lateral line. Caudal rounded, peduncle short. Rather rare small fishes of deep water of most tropical seas. .About 9 genera are recognised, in our area only the genus Triacanthodes Bleeker, genotype Triacanthus anonuiltis T. & S., w'ith 1 species in our area. 1136. TRIACANTHODES ETHIOPS Alcock. Literature L 4, 393, 706. Depth about 2. D VI 14-16. A 13 -14. P 12 13. 1 feeble pelvic soft ray. All spines rough. Teeth conical. Colour indefinite, occasionally mottled in light and dark. .Attains 3.1 ins. 100-250 fathoms in Indian tropical waters, has been found off Natal and Deiagoa Bay. Rare in our area. overlapping. F'in spines quite well developed. Pelvics Fig. 1136. TRIACANTHODES ETHIOPS Mcock. Actual length 2) ins. BONY FISHES— Family MONACANTHI DAE 401 Family MONACANTHIDAE FILE-FISHES Body highly compressed, ovoid to angular, without normal scales, those present usually minute, modified, sometimes with projections, skin often rough. Dorsal of an isolated sometimes barbed strong spine above or near the eye, with a rudimentary 2nd spine close behind the base of the 1st, usually below the skin, and a separate soft dorsal of less than 40 rays. The 1st spine can be locked fully or partly erect by means of the rudimentary 2nd spine (See Fig. Q). A pelvic flap present, spine fixed, or with a hinged movable extremity. 6 outer teeth in each jaw, mouth small. Rather small feeble fishes of warm shallow seas, most in the Indo-Pacific, living mainly in the shelter of reefs and weeds. Although the flesh is bitter, and often produces characteristic symptoms of poisoning, these fishes are often skinned and eaten by native races. Rather numerous on the MonarantNds.'^Thelrofen’ ir^^^^^^^ east coast of Africa, 9 genera in our area. level of the back. ! . —Fully erect. 2.~ half erect. 3. Depressed. A. Pelvic spine with freely movable portion. —Locked 1. Dorsal spine originates before middle of eye. 2. Dorsal spine originates behind middle of eye. Pervagor (1137) {a) 4 series of spinules, 2 in front, on dorsal spine (h) 2 series of hinder spinules on dorsal spine, none in front. Laputa (1138) (i) Scales minute, skin smooth Paramonacanthus (1139) (ii) Scales larger, distinct, skin rough . . B. No movable portion of pelvic spine. 1. Dorsal spine originates over middle or front of eye. Stephanolepis ( 1 140-1 142) (a) Dermal filaments present (h) No dermal filaments. (i) No enlarged spinules, or if any present those behind not Hanomanctus (1143) markedly larger than any in front of dorsal spine ... (ii) A series of spinules on each side of dorsal spine behind. A manses ( 1 144-1 145) larger than any in front ... (iii) 4 equidistant series of subequal large spinules on dorsal Thamnaconus ( 1 : 146 1 147) spine Acanthaluteres (1148) 2. Dorsal spine originates behind middle of eye Navodon (1149) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Genus I’ervagor Whitley, genotype Monacanthus niteus Holland. Pelvic spine freely movable. Dorsal spine over middle or front of eye. with spinules pointing up in front and downwards behind. 6 species known, 1 in our area. 1137. PF.R\ .MELANOCEPH.ALLS (Bleeker). [Monacanthus melanocephalus.] Literature L 55, 91. 212, 269. 296, 707. Plate 88. p. 374. Depth about 2. D I • 30 32. .A 26-29. Pelvic spine well developed, movable. .Attains 4 ins. Colour variable, sometimes greenish, with darker spots. An East Indian species found as far south as .Algoa Bay. .Adults rare in our area. Genus Laputa Whitley, genotype Monacanthus knerii Stndnr. Pelvic spine with movable flap. Dorsal spine behind middle of eye, with 4 rows of spinules, 2 series in front as large as those behind. Skin velvety. 3 species, 1 from China, 1 from Ceylon, and 1 in our area. 36 402 BONY FISHES— Family MONACANTH I DAE Depth, between dorsal and anal origins, 2^. D 1 + 25. A 24. 4 series of spinules down dorsal spine, 7 8 in each series. Skin not very harsh. Live colour unknown. Only one specimen 2.1 ins. long, found on the beach at Umgazi Mouth. More wanted. Genus Paramonacanthus Bleeker, genotype Monacaiulnis curtorliyiuhiis Blkr. Pelvic spine slender, apex freely movable. Skin velvety. Dorsal spine behind middle of eye, with spinules down hind margin. About H species known, I in our area. 1139. P.AR.WlON.VC.-VNTHUS B.ARNARDI Fraser- Brunner. Previously confused with Monacamhus ohlonyi/s Gnthr. Literature L 14, 91, 707. Plate 88, p. 374. Depth about 2]. D 1 ■ 25-27. A 25-27. Pelvic spine small but movable. Attains 3.1 ins. Oecurs on the tropical east coast ot Africa, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay. Lives mainly among weeds, abundant in sheltered bays. Genus Stephanolepis Gill, genotype Monacanthus scrifer Benn. Pelvic spine short and stout, but apex freely movable. Skin rough, scales distinct. Dorsal spine behind middle ol eye, with spinules down hind margin. Numerous species, mainly Indo-Pacific, 3 in our area. A. Markings transverse or irregular. 1. Snout profile concave ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . m/ra/u.v (1 140) 2. Snoutprofilenotconcave ... ... ... ... ... ... .. ... reel i f rons (I 141) B. Markings longitudinal . freycineti (\\A2) 1140. STEPHANOLEPIS .AERATES (Castlenau). with Monacamhus setifer Benn.] Porky. File-Fish. Literature L 19, 67, 91, 251, 707. Plate 88, p. 374. Depth about If. D 1+29-34. ,A 29 33. The 2nd dorsal ray often filamentous. .Attains 10 ins. Found only in our area from Knysna to Beira, abundant among weeds in quiet shallow- waters, such as Delagoa Bay, where large speci¬ mens are eaten by some of the natives. 1141. STEPHANOLEPIS RECTIFRONS Fraser-Brunner. Literature L 91, 696, 707. Depth about If. DI-3!. A 30-31. 2nd and 3rd dorsal soft rays sometimes filamentous. Scales noticeably hard. Attains 6 ins. So far found only from Durban to Zanzibar, not uncommon among weeds in Delagoa Bay. Mainly greenish. [Monacamhus porceUus Smith. Previously confused Fig. 1141. STEPHANOLEPIS RECTIFRONS F.-B. Actual length 6 ins. PLATE 93 1195. Gasiropbysus lunaris, 9 ins. 1196. Gastrophysus spatliceus, 8 ins. 1197. Torijnii’ener ohiongus, 9 ins. 1198. Amhiyrhyncholes honckenii, 8 ins. 1199. AmblyrhynchoU's hypselogeneion, 5 ins. 1203. Arothron iinnuuiilattis, 5 ins. 1207. Arothron hiapidus, 35 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family MON ACANTHI DAE 403 1142. STEPHANOEEPIS EREYCINETI Quoy & Gaimard. Literature L 91, 146, 383, 696, 707. Depth (dorsal to anal) about 2.i. D I • 28. A 26. P 12. Scales small, each with a spiny ridge. Some bristles at caudal base. Greenish, brown above, bluish specklings on chest. Dark markings as shown. Iris-green-blue. Fin rays light to yellowish. Caudal yellow, with red spots on the membrane, margin grading to bluish with several fine dark brown intramarginal lines. Attains 3 ins. Known only from our tropical east coast, Delagoa Bay, Mauritius, Madagascar, Seychelles. Fig. 1142. STEPHANOLEPIS FREY- CINETI Q. & G. After Fraser-Brunner. Genus Hanonianctus Smith, genotype Hanomancuis hovinus Smith. No movable part of pelvic spine. Dorsal spine originates over front of eye, with no spinules, only granulations. Spine fits into a groove when depressed. .Many fine dermal filaments. One species. 1143. MANOMANCTUS BOVINUS Smith. Literature L 91. Fig. 1143. HA\()\1A.\CTUS BOFISL'S Smith. Actual length 4 ins. Greatest depth about 2. D I • 35. A 31. Skin velvety, with scattered fine filaments. Live colour unknown, probably brownish. So far known only from the type, 4 ins. long, found thrown up near East London. More wanted. Genus .Amanses Gray, genotype Monacanthus scopas Cuv. No movable pelvic spine. Dorsal spine above or before middle of eye, no large spinules, or if present, hind spinules larger than any in front. Skin smooth, velvety. A few Indo-Pacific species, 2 in our area easily distinguished. 1144. AMANSES SANDVS ICHIENSIS (Quoy & Gaimard). [Monacanthus or Canthcrines sandwichiensis. or pardalis Rupp., or nutalcnsis G. & T.] Literature L 4, 14. 19, 44, 91. 147, 269, 461, 707. Plate 88, p. 374. Depth about 2. D 1 - 34-36. A 30-31. Colour variable, some¬ times uniform, sometimes as illustrated in Plate 88. The young bluish silvery with yellow pectorals. Attains 15 ins. Occurs in all warm seas, has been found from Port Alfred northwards. The bluish silvery young are often thrown ashore as far west as Mossel Bay. ' ensIsTq. & G^r^fuv^en^Tf 404 BONY FISHES—Family MON ACANTHI DAE 1145. AMANSES F'RONTICINCTUS (Gunther). [Moiiacanthus fronlicincHis.] Literature L 86, 9|^ 275, 707. Plate 88, p. 374. Depth about 2. D 1 + 32-35, the 2nd soft ray sometimes filamentous in the young. A 29-32. A dark band between the eyes. Attains 9 ins. Known from the east coast of Africa from Durban to Zanzibar, nowhere abundant, mainly in shallow water among weeds. Genus Thamnaconus Smith, genotype Ca/iihcrincs arcnacciis Barnard. No movable part of pelvic spine. Dorsal spine originates over front of eye, with 1 series of small spinulcs down each hinder lateral margin, none in front. Spine fits back into a groove when depressed. Known only from our area, with 2 species, easily distinguised. 1146. TH.‘\MN.-\CONL'S .AREN.ACEL'S ( Barnard). [Cantherincs circnaccusi] Literature L 4, 91. Fig. 1146. THAM.\ACO\US AKE\ACEL’S (Brnrd.). Actual length 9 ins. Depth 23. D 1 - 32. .A 30. Skin rather rough. indi\idual settles visible, each with 2 rows of minute spines. Live colour unknown, probably brownish. So far known only from the type, 9 ins. long, probably from Natal. Specimens wanted. 1147. rH.AMN.ACONLS MODESIOIDES (Barnard). [Canihcrinc.s nwc/csioii/cs.] Literature L 4, 21, 91, 695, 707. Depth about 21. D 1- 36-37. A 35-36. Skin fairly smooth, scales hardly visible, each with 1-2 rows of fine spines. Purplish brown, with dusky lines along body. From belly along lower surface to lower jaw yellow. Membrane behind dorsal spine yellow. Fins light, membranes bluish. Attains 13 ins. Algoa Bay to the Red Sea, rather rare. Specimens wanted. BONY FISHES-Family ALUTERIDAE 405 Genus Acanthaluteres Bleeker, genotype Monacanthus peroni Hollard, No movable pelvie spine. Dorsal spine above middle of eye, strong spinules in 4 series, about equal. A patch of bristles on tail. A few Indo- Pacific species, 1 in our area. 1148. ACAN 1 llALUrLRKS PERONl (Ffollard). [Camherines peroni.] Literature L 4, 91, 215, 296, 707. Depth about 2.J. D I 33-35. A 32-33. Dorsal spine short with 4 equally spaced series of spinules. Brownish. Adult males have a band of stiff erect bristles near the tail. Attains 12 ins. A Pacific species once recorded from Natal, possibly a malidentification. Genus Navodon Whitley, genotype Batistes australis Donovan. No freely movable jointed pelvic spine. Dorsal spine behind middle of eye, hind spinules larger than any in front. A number of species, mainly Indo- Pacific, only I in our area. 1149. NAVODON MODE.STUS (Gun¬ ther). [Monacanthus or Eseudomonacanthus modestus.] Filefish. Black Scraper (Japan). Literature L 19, 91, 325, 444, 647, 707. Depth 2f-2J. D 1 + 33-38. A 34-36. Eye 4-~4.l in snout, whose profile is convex. ■Stated to be bluish in life, and variable in form. Attains 12 ins. A common food-fish of Japan. Rare in our area, has been found in Zululand. Fig. M49. NAVODON MODESTUS {Gmhr ). After Jordan & Fowler. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family ALL lERlDAE LE.\TFlER.JACKErS Elongate compressed body with velvety skin, no visible scales. An isolated slender dorsal spine above or in advance of eye. becomes feeble with age, sometimes absent. A rudimentary 2nd spine present close behind base of 1st, a knob on the front of the base of the 2nd spine slipping beneath a hinder basal ridge on the 1st and so locking it erect.. Pelvic spine feeble or absent. Curious feeble fishes of all warm seas, widely distributed, quite often thrown ashore in our area. One at least is wholesome food when skinned. 3 genera, all found in our area. •A. Dorsal spine over eye (obsolete with age). 1. Caudal shorter than head . ... Aluiera (1152) 2. Caudal longer than head . ... ... Osbeckia (1153) B. Dorsal spine in advance of eye . Pseudalutarius (1154) Genus .\lutcra Cuvier, genotype Batistes nionoceros Osbeck. Compressed body, rather deep at chest. Caudal shorter than head. .Spine short. One species. 1152. ALLTERA MONOCEROS (Osbeck). [Aluteres or Alutarius nionoceros, or anginosus HolL] Leatherjacket. Literature L 4, 47, 68, 104, 328, 707. Plate 89, p. 381. Depth and shape of body varies with age. In the young the chest is much deeper, and the snout profile concave, while with growth the profile of the snout becomes convex. Also in the young the dorsal spine bears spinules which vanish with age. D 1 - 45-50. A 47-53. Attains 30 ins. In all warm seas, has been found from tbe Cape to Beira, quite often thrown ashore. Is said to be excellent eating when skinned. 406 BONY FISHES Family BALIST/DAE Genus Osbeckia Jordan & Evermann, genotype the single species. Body elongate, fairly compressed, with velvety skin. Snout profile always concave. Caudal longer than head. Spine fairly long but feeble. 1153. OSBECKIA SCRIPTA (Osbeck). [A/uiera or Aliitariiis or Monacautbus scriptus, or venosus Holl 1 Literature L 4, 19, 55, 68, 104, 328, 655, 707. Plate 89, p. 381. Depth about 3. D1 43-48. A 46-52. Dorsal spine weak, sometimes absent, especially in large specimens. Colour variable, but pattern unmistakable. Attains 40 ins. In all warm seas, has been found from Knysna to Beira, adults unknown south of Delagoa Bay. Stated not to be edible. Is said to stand on its head among weeds to escape detection. Specimens wanted. The young are mostly uniform greyish. Genus Pseudalutarius Bleeker, genotype the single species. Dor.sal spine on snout. Small rough scales on body. 1154. PSEUD.ALLI I ARIUS NASICORNIS (Schlegcl). [Pseudciluieriiis ini.sicornis, or rhinoceros Holl.) Rhinofish. Literature 1. 86, 275, 332, 613, 707. Fig. lt.S4, PSEUDALUTARIUS NASICORNIS (Sch ). Actual length IJ ins. Body deepens with age and snout becomes shorter. D 1 ; 43 48. A 41 46. Attains 7 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, only once found in our area, a juvenile migrant, at Port Alfred. Little is known about this curious fish. All specimens should be preserved. Eamilv BALISllDAE LRIGGERHSHES Rather deep compressed body, encased in a heavy armour ol enlarged bony scales, the hinder sometimes with tubercles or spines. Mouth small, teeth strong, not fu.sed together. A separate 1st dorsal of 3 spines, the 1st much the largest, and which can be locked erect. The Lst spine has a deep V-shaped furrow along most of its hind surface. The 2nd spine is wedge- shaped, fitting into the groove in the 1st. When the 1st is fully erect and the 2nd is pushed home, the 1st cannot be depressed by external force, but only if the 2nd is pulled back. The 1st spine can be fixed in position in the same way at any point until at about 45° to the line of the back. When depressed the 2nd spine fits into the 1st, and both lie flat in a deep furrow along the back. Hence the name “Trigger" fish, the 2nd spine being the trigger. (See Fig. R.) Found in all warm seas, these curious rather degenerate fishes live mainly in fairly shallow water about reefs also in weeds, some favouring fairly deep water. To show ‘■Trigger" mechanism in Balistids. Fully erect. 2. Partly erect. 3. Depressed. The powerful teeth enable them to scrape loose and crush various organisms for food. Unable to swim fast, they nevertheless travel vast distances merely by floating in warm currents, and are often cast ashore, especially the young. Some bite eagerly on almost any bait, but others are shy, and to get to know all that j.,- a,;i, -»i ^•‘' '4- - -• /■ -....“ '-*■ 1191. Sphaeroiiles pleurospi/us, 5 ins. 1204. Arothron nif^ropunclalus, 4 ins. Canthigaster PLATE 94 linl lagocephaliis, 15 ins, 1 194. Gas/rop/nsus sceleralu \20(>. Arothron aerostat, cus, 3 ms. 1208. Canthigaster valentini 3 ins ' margantatns. 4 ms. Actual length stated in each case 9 ins. 1210 «WBM PLATE 95 1190 SphaeroUlesciitimeus,9\n%. 1202. Che/onodon lariceps. i ins. 1205. Arolhron s!e//atiis, \4 im. 1212. Ranzania typiis, 20 ins. 1213. Mola mola, 4 ft. 1233. Chaunax pictus, 10 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family BALfST/DAE 407 normally frequent any one reef explosives or poison must be used. The flesh of many is poisonous, but a few are regularly eaten in some parts. It is as well not to experiment. A number of Indo-Pacific species have been found on our east coast, but they are not abundant in our area and always excite curiosity and interest, recognised, 12 have been found in our area. A. Cheeks normally scaly, no naked grooves. 1 4 genera 1 . Teeth red . . . 2. Teeth not red. (a) A groove before the eye. Odonus (1155) (i) Caudal peduncle depressed ... (ii) Caudal peduncle not depressed. (.V) No spines on peduncle. A batistes (1156) (a) Enlarged rounded plates behind gill-opening Batistes (1157) (/8) No enlarged plates behind gill-opening ... ( i ) .Spines on peduncle at least. . . Canthidermis (1166) («) Soft dorsal and anal higher in front (^) Soft dorsal and anal about uniform. Melichtbys (1158-9) t Spines or tubercles not far forward on body tt Spines or tubercles extend far forward on body. Balistoides (1 160-1) * Cheek scales somewhat enlarged Su ffiamen (1162) ** Cheek scales not enlarged Hemibatistes (1163-4) (b) No groove before eye. (i) 3rd dorsal spine minute . Rhineca/uhus (\\ 69-70) (ii) 3rd dorsal spine moderate . Balistapus (1171) B. Cheek fully scaled, but with narrow longitudinal naked grooves . Xantbichthys (1165) C. Cheeks naked anteriorly, with small scales in separate elevated rows behind ... Pseudohalistes (1167-8) Cienus {)donus Gistel, genotype the single species. Teeth red, upper outer enlarged. A groove before the eye. Enlarged rounded plates behind the gill-opening. Hinder scales large. Dorsal and anal high in front. Caudal lobes produced. 1155. ODONL'S .NIGER (Ruppell). [Erythrodon niyer. Odonus eryihrodon Gn\\\r.] Triggerfish. Redfang. Literature L 21, 328, 613, 647. Plate 89, p. 381. Depth about 2. Dill- 34 36. A 30. Teeth distinctly red. An unmistakable fish. Attains 20 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, once at Port Alfred. Genus .Abalistes Jordan & Seale, genotype the single species. Teeth not red. A groove before the eye. Enlarged rounded plates behind the gill-opening. Caudal peduncle depressed, wider than deep. Tubercles on hinder scales. 1156. .\B.\LISTE,S S lTiEE.-XRLS Bloch. [Balistes stellaris or steHatus L'dc.] Triggerfish. V arkvis. Seevark. Literature L 4. 21. 126. 269, 328, 647. Plate 89, p. 381. Depth about 2]. D III • IE 17 . A 24-26. About 25 scales from soft dorsal origin to anal. Caudal peduncle flattened, wider than deep. Colours variable and quite brilliant. Attains at least 24 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Mossel Bay, not uncommon on our south coast, quite often thrown ashore, also found down to 50 fathoms, taken in the trawl. Genus Balistes Linnaeus, genotype Batistes vetula Linn. Teeth not red. A groove before the eye. Enlarged rounded plates behind gill-opening. Caudal peduncle normal. Scales of peduncle smooth. Soft dorsal and anal higher in front. Caudal lobes produced. 2 species, one in our area. 1157. BALISTES V'ETULA Linnaeus. Triggerfish. Oldwife. Literature L 4, 105,647,655. Plate 89, p. 381. Depth about 2. D II I + 30-32. A 28-30. About 36 scales from soft dorsal origin to anal. Attains 20 ins. Tropical Atlantic and Indian Oceans, has been found at Port Alfred and Durban. 408 BONY FISHES— Family BALISTIDAE Genus Melichthys Swainson, genotype Balisles ringcns Osbeek. Teetb not red. A groove before the eye. Enlarged rounded plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal somewhat higher in front. 3rd dorsal spine minute. 2 speeies, both in our area, easily distinguished. 1158. MELICHTHYS VTDIJ.A (Solander). [BaHstcs vulua.] Triggerfish. Literature L 88, 269, 506, 647, Plate 88, p. 374. Depth about I4. Dlll-f34 35. A 29 30. About 32 scales from soft dorsal origin to anal. Attains 15 ins. Widespread but nowhere abundant in the tropical Indo- Pacific, has been found at Durban and Delagoa. 1159. MELICHTHYS RINtJENS (Os- beck). [Balistcs ringeus. or radida Sol., or huniva Lac. Melichthys buniva.] Black Triggcrfi.sh. Literature L 86, 461, 647. Depth about 1 J. D 111-F31 33. A 28-30. About 26 scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Attains 20 ins. Tropical areas of all oceans, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. Genus Balistoides Fraser-Brunner, genotype Balistcs viridcscciis Bloch, leeth white. A groove betdre the eye. Enlarged rounded plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal low. Cheek scales rather small. Spines on .scales of peduncle. Few species, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. 1160. B.YLISTOIDES VIRIDESCENS (Bloch). [Balistcs viridcscciis.] Triggerlish. Literature L 86, 269, 647, Plate 89. p. 381. Depth about I5. D III • 24-25. A 23-24. About 18 scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Spines on peduncle. Attains 24 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacifie, has been found at Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 1161. B.YLISTOIDES CONSPICILLUM (Bloch). [Balistcs or Siitflanicii coiispicilhim, or hicolor Shaw.) Triggerfish. Literature L 67. 269, 444. 613, 647. Plate 90, p. 384. Depth about 2. Dill - 25-27. ,A 21 22. About 30 scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Spines on peduncle. Colour variable, but pattern almost con.stant. Attains 20 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacilic, has been found as far south as Durban, occasionally seen in our area. Kig. I15U. MELtCttltt YS RtNGENS (Osh.). Actual length 9 ins. 1162. SUFFLAMEN CAPISTRATUS (Shaw). [Balistcs capistratus, or mitis Benn.] Triggerfish. Literature L 4, 19, 47, 131, 269, 647. Plate 90, p. 384, adult. Depth about 1». D lll-f29 31. A 26-28. About 34 scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Tubercles on hinder scales. Attains 20 ins. The yellow mark sometimes over upper lip also. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Durban. The young (Balistcs mitis Benn.) are uniformly coloured as shown, and common among weeds. Genus Sufflamen Jordan, genotype Balistcs capistratus Shaw. Teeth white. .A groove before the eye. Enlarged rounded plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal low. Caudal slightly emarginate. Spines or tubercles on scales of peduncle, and forward on body also. Cheek scales enlarged, rectangular. .A few Indo-Pacific species, I in our area. Fig. 1162. SU EEL A MEN CAPISTRATUS (Shaw). Juvenile, length 5 ins. BONY FISHES— Family BAUSTIDAE 409 Genus Hemibalistes Fraser-Brunner, genotype now designated as Batistes bursa Bloch. Teeth white. A groove before the eye. Enlarged rounded plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal low. Caudal truncate. Spines or tubercles on scales of peduncle, and forward on body also. Cheek scales small, not enlarged. Several species, 2 in our area, both illustrated. 1163. HEMIBALIS'I'ES BURSA (Bloch). [Batistes or Sufftamen bursa.] Triggerfish. Literature L 86, 127, 461, 647. Plate 90, p. 384. Depth about 2. Dill’ 28-30. A 25-27. About 25 scales from soft dorsal origin to anal. Attains 9 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. 1164. MF^MIBALISI'ES CHRYSOPTERA (Bloch). [Batistoides ni^er M. Park. Batistes or Sufftamen chrysoptera, or niper M. Park, or armatus BIkr.] Triggerfish. Literature L 4, 47, 124, 269, 328, 647. Plate 90, p. 384. Depth about 2. Dill- 26-28. A 23-25. About 25 scales from soft dorsal origin to anal. Attains 12 ins. Widespread and quite abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Durban, one of the commonest Balistids about reefs in Delagoa Bay. Genus Xanthichthys Kaup, genotype Batistes ringens Linn. A groove before the eye. No enlarged plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal higher in front. 3rd dorsal spine small. Caudal emarginate. Cheek scales large, with naked grooves. Tubercles on hinder scales. 2 species, one in our area. 1165. X.A.N'THIC.'irrHY.S RI.NTiENS (Linn.). [Batistes or Canthidermis ringens.] Literature L 4, 14, 105, 296, 647. Plate 90, p. 384. Depth about 2. D 111+27-29. A 27-29. About 18 series of scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Attains 12 ins. Warm waters of Atlantic and Indian Oceans, has been found from Port Alfred to Mauritius, not uncommon. Genus Canfhidcrmis Swainson, genotype Batistes angutosus 0- G- Teeth white. A groove before the eye. No enlarged plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal higher in front. 3rd dorsal spine well developed. No tubercles or spines on scales. 4 species, 1 in our area. 1166. CAN THIDERMIS MACULATL’S (Bloch). [Batistes macuiatus.] Triggerfish. Literature L 4, 269,647. Plate 91, p. ,391. Depth about 2;*,. D 111+24-27. A 24-26. About 30 series of scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Scales rough, no spines. Attains 22 ins. In'all warm seas, has been found from the Cape to Durban, rare in our area. Genus Pseudobalistes Bleeker. genotype Batistes fiavomarginatus Rupp. Enlarged plates behind gill-opening. A groove before the eye. Soft dorsal and anal higher in front. Cheeks naked in front, with isolated horizontal rows of small scales behind. 4 rather rare species, 2 in our area. ,A. About 20 scales between soft dorsal and anal origins . flavomarginatus (1167) B, About 30 scales between soft dorsal and anal origins ... ... ... /h5r(«___( 1 168) 1167. F’SEL DOBALLSTES FLA VOMARGIN+TL S (Ruppell). [Batistes flavimarginatus. or flavomarginatus. or brasitiensis Peters, or papuensis McL.] Triggerfish. Literature L 19. 150, 639. 647. Depth about I i. D 111 ■ 26. A 22-24. About 20 series of scales between origin of soft dorsal and anal. Caudal rounded in young, gradually changes to form shown for adult. Colour variable, greenish, mauve and yellow. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found north of Natal and in Delagoa Bay. Rare in our area. (Scales on cheek inaccurate in Fig. 1167.) Fig. 1167. PSEUDOBALISTES FLAVOMARGINATUS (Rupp.). After Bleeker. 410 BONY FISHES— Family BAUSTIDAE 1168. PSEUDOBALISTES FUSCUS (Bloch). [Ba/isle.s fuscu.s\ or coerulescens Rupp., or reticulatus Holl.] Triggerfish. Literature L 86, 127, 269, 613, 647. Plate 91, p. 391. Depth about IJ. D 111 • 24-27. A 22-24. About 30 series of .scales between .soft dorsal origin and anal. Attains 20 ins. Colour variable, .sometimes with lines as shown, sometimes brownish or orange, with pattern broken up into spots. Tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban and Dclagoa Bay, rare in our area. Genus Rhinecanthus Swain.son, genotype Balisles acu/catus Linn. No groove before eye. No enlarged plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal low. 3rd dorsal spine very small. Spines on peduncle, Cheeks fully .scaly. About 6 species, 2 in our area, all easily distinguished and identified. Others will likely be found here also. 1169. RHINECANTHUS .VCULE.ATUS (Linnaeus). [Ba/istes or Bcilislapus aciilcalus.] Triggerfish. Literature L 4, 38, 47, 105, 269, 328, 461, 647, 655. Plate 91, p. 391. Depth about 2. D 111 • 24-25. A 22. About 24 scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Colour varies over a wide range, but pattern constant. Attains 12 ins. Tropical lndo-Paci(ic and tropical west coast of Africa. Has been found from Port Alfred eastwards. Sleeps soundly on its side at night. Makes a whirring noise when startled. 1170. RHINEC.ANTHUS RECT.ANGULUS (Schneider). [Balisies or Bcilislapus reclangulus. or ductus HolL] Triggerfish. Patchy. Literature L 87, 127, 147, 269, 328, 461, 61.3, 647. Plate 91, p. .391. Depth about 2. D 111 + 22-24. .A 20. .About 40 transverse series of scales below spinous dorsal. 5 rows of antrorse spines on caudal peduncle. Colour brilliant, somewhat variable, but the markings are unmistakable. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Xora Mouth, rare in our area, specimens wanted. Genus Balistapus Tilesius, genotype the single species. No groove before eye. No enlarged plates behind gill-opening. Soft dorsal and anal low. 3rd dorsal spine moderate. Cheeks fully scaly. Spines on peduncle. 1171. B.ALIST.APUS UNDLT. ATUS (Mungo Park). [Balistes uiulu/aius, or capistraius Tilesius, or porcaiiis Gron., or Uneatus BIkr.] Literature L 86, 124, 147, 613, 647. Plate 91, p. 391. Depth about 2. D 111 - 26-27. A 23-24. .About 24 scales between soft dorsal origin and anal. Attains 9 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific has been found in Delagoa Bay, rare in our area. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. ORDER OSTR.4CIONTOIDEA (1172-1180) BOXFISHE.S: COWFISHE.S Body encased in an armour of hexagonal bony plates, marginally fused to form a solid box. Teeth not fused, about 10 in each jaw. No fin spines. Normal pelvic fins absent, replaced by bony ridges externally. Highly specialised fishes of warm seas, mainly of shallow water, many poisonous. .All are feeble swimmers, but travel vast distances with ocean currents. The curious appearance always excites interest, and most of the relatively few species have been known and described from the earliest times. 2 families are recognised, which differ quite widely, the ARACANIDAE with the carapace open behind the dorsal and anal fins, the OSTRA- CIONTIDAE having the encasing plates closed behind the anal fin at least. There was once great excitement in South Africa when it was reported that one of these fishes, dried out and suspended on a fine thread, could by its movements afford reliable information about coming weather. PLATE % ■-r* ■ ^ 1 1215. Cymnohatrachus apialus, 5 'mi. 1216. Gynmohatrachu.'i ophiocephaliis. 3 'im. 1217. Bmrichlhys albofascialus, 4| in.s. 1218. Ausirohatnichus foedus, (> mi. 1219. Chutrahus melaminis, (> 'mi. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FJSHES—Families ARACANJDAE and OSTRACIONTI DAE 411 Family ARACANIDAE Dorsal and anal fins clear of main armour, but with bony plates behind on the tail. A distinct median ventral ridge. Numerous genera and species from the eastern Pacific, only one* in our area. Genus Strophiurichthys Fraser- Brunner, genotype the single species. 1172. STROPHIURICHTHYS ROBU.STUS Fraser- Brunner. Literature L 86, 647, 707. Earlier described by Eraser- Brunner as Strophiurichthys inermis F.-B. D 10. A 10. Depth about 11. Box rather granular. Yellowish in life. Attains 10 ins. Known from the tropical Pacific, Australia and the Solomon Islands from 10- 150 fathoms, one specimen washed up at Algoa Bay. * Another since found, see Fig. 1 172a, PI. 97. Fig. 1172. STROPHIURICHTHYS ROBUSTUS F.-B. Actual length 4 ins. Family O.STRACIONTIDAE BOXFISHES: SEEVARKIES; COWFISHES: COFFERFISHES Body armour extends behind anal fin, and mostly behind dorsal also. No ventral ridge. Fishes of warm shallow water of all seas. Easily dry out without much decomposition, and feature as ornaments and curios. Mostly Indo-Pacific species on our shores, in 4 of the 7 recognised genera. A. Carapace elevated, .B-angled. 1. Large spines project forwards before eye ... 2. No large spines project forwards before eye B. Carapace 4-angled (no ridge on back) ... C. Carapace 5-angled (a ridge on back) . Acanthostracion ( 1 1 73) Tetrosomus ( 1 1 74-1 1 75) O St radon ( 1 1 76- 1177) Lactoria (1178-1180) Genus Acanthostracion Bleeker, genotype Ostracion tricornis Linn. Body elevated, with scarcely any lateral ridges, virtually 3-angled. A large spine before each eye. One species in our area. 1173. .AC.AN THOS I'R.-ACTON TRICORNIS (Linnaeus). [Ostracion or Lactophrys tricornis or quadri- cornis Linn.] Boxfish. Cowfish. Literature L 67, 644, 647. Plate 92, p. 398. D 10. A 10. P 11. Carapace distinctly 3-angled. Attains at least 18 ins. A tropical Atlantic species once found in our area at Algoa Bay. Genus Tetrosomus Swainson, genotype Ostracion yihhosus Linn. Body elevated, with scarcely any lateral ridges, virtually 3-angled. No spine before eye. Dorsal ridge sometimes with spines, often diminish with age. Several species, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. 1174. TETROSOMUS CONC.MFN ATUS (Bloch). [Ostracion or Rhinesomus or Lactophrys concatenatus, or stcllijer Bloch, or hicuspis Blum.] Boxfish. Literature L 4, 14, 47, 58, 117, 647. Plate 92, p. 398, juvenile. Fig. 1174. TETROSOMUS CONCATENATUS (Bf). Actual length 9 ins. 412 BONY FISHES— Family OSTRACIONTI DAE D 9. A 9 10. Lateral ridges scarcely evident, carapace distinctly 3-angled, elevated. Spines on dorsal and on lower ridges diminish with age. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the tropical western Pacific and Indian Oceans. The most abundant boxfish in our area from the Cape eastwards, extends to 60 fathoms, often thrown ashore. 1175. TETRO.SOMUS GIBBO.SUS (Linnaeus). [Ostracion or Rhinesotiius or Lactophrys gihbosus, or tunitus Forsk.] Boxfish. Literature L 67, 328, 647. Fig, II7-S. TETROSOMVS GIBBOSUS (Linn.), Actual length 4 ins. D 9. A 9. A strong spine on back which diminishes with age. .Attains at least 12 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacitic, has been found from Durban northwards. Genus Ostracion Linnaeus, genotype Ostracion tuhcrculaius Linn. Body square in section, with 4 rounded ridges, none on back. The snout does not projeet beyond the mouth. Fairly numerous species all of the tropical I ndo- Pacific, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. A White spots ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . . ... ... ... Icntiyinosuni (1176) B. Dark spots ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... luherculatus (1177) 1176, OSTR.ACION LENTIGINOSLM Bloch. [Ostracion punctatus Bl.] Boxfish. 1 runkfish. Literature L 4, 127. 269, 296, 647. Plate 92, p. 398. D 9. A 9. Back rounded. Colour variably brown or olive to green, spots always light. Mouth opening in carapace smaller than eye. Attains at least 9 ins. Widespread in the Indo-Pacitic, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, not abundant in our area. 1177. OSTRACION TLBERCUL.ATUS Linnaeus. [Ostracion cithicus Linn., or tetrayonus Linn.] Boxfish. Trunkfish. Literature L 4, 47, 105. 296, 328, 647. Plate 92. p. 398. Fig. 1177. OSTRACION TUBERCULATUS Linn. Left, juvenile at II ins. Right, at 9 ins. D 9. A 9. Back gently rounded. Mouth opening in carapace greater than eye. Spots always dark. Attains at least 18 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacitic, has been found as far south as Knysna, not uncommonly thrown ashore. Fresh from the water has a strong aromatic odour. PLATE 97 4a Gyropleuroitus ramalheira, 23 ins. (HETERODONTIDAE, no description in texti. 479a. Apogon camphelli, 21 ins. in i amia, 3 ms. (choked by Atherine). 665. Lutianiis sehae, 12 ins. 846. Siromateiis fascimus, 5 ins. ]06-. Parabembras robinsoni^ 8 ins. 1172a. Aracanostracion rosapinto, 6 ins. (ARACANIDAB, no description in text). 1226. Halieutea fitzsimonsi, 9 ins. Actual length stated in each case. BONY FISHES—Family OSTRACIONTI DAE 413 Genus Lactoria Jordan & Fowler, genotype Osiracion coniutus Linn. Body square in section, with a distinct dorsal ridge, i.e. 5-angled. I or 2 spines before eye. Ridge on back mostly with a spine in the very young, sometimes diminishes with age. A number of Indo-Pacifie species, 3 in our area. A. No spine on back ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... coniutus (1178) B. Spine on back. 1. Ridge on back feeble... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... diaphana (1179) 2. Ridge on back marked ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . . fornasini (1180) 1178. LAC TORIA C'ORNL rUS (Linnaeus). [Ostracion coniutus, or arcus ^\kr.] Cowfish. Oskop. Boxnsh. l.iterature L 4, 19, 47, 105, 296, 328. 647. Plate 92, p. 398. D 9. A 9. [Dorsal ridge not prominent, usually without spine. Caudal moderate in the young, elongates considerably with age. Attains at least 20 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Mossel Bay, not abundant but quite well known in our area. A beautiful fish. 1179. I.ACTORIA DIAPHANA (Bloch). [Ostra- cioii or Lactophrys diaphanus, or hrcriconiis Schl.] Cowfish. Oskop. .Seekoei. Seevarkie. Boxfish. Lit¬ erature L 4, 19, 47, 127, 269, 296, 647. I) 9. A 9. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as the Cape, often thrown ashore, the young penetrate estuaries and excite much interest, being virtually transparent. Fig. 1179. LACTORIA DIAPHANA (Bl.). Actual length 5 ins. Fig. I ISO. LACTORIA TORSASIM ItivAn.). Actual length 4 ins. 1180. L.ACTORI.A FORNASINI ( Bianconi). [Ostra- cion or Laclophrys fornasini, or pentacanthus Blkr., or Juscomaculata von B.] Cowfish. Boxfish. Literature L 4, 19, 220, 269, 296, 647. Plate 92, p. 398. D 9. A 9. Ridge on back distinct with strong recurved spine. Attains at least 6 ins. Tropical Indo- Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, rather rare in our area. ORDER TETR.AODONTOIDEA (1181-1214) lOBIKS: PIFFERS: GLOBEFISHFS: BLA.ASOPS: PORCLPINE FISHES: SPINY BLA.ASOPS: SEAPIGS; PIGFISHES: VARKVLSSE: SLNFISHES: SONVISSE Teeth united to form a solid beak. Body naked, or with small or large spines, or with small plates. Caudal sometimes absent, when present used only as a rudder, propulsion mainly by the pectorals. No pelvic fins, no fin spines. Lateral line absent or present, sometimes multiple. .A number of peculiar fishes are grouped here, all specialised, mostly feeble swimmers, found in all warm seas. All or most are highly poisonous. The toxin is concentrated mainly in the skin and internal organs, particularly the liver. One of these substances has been isolated and named Tetrodontine. It is a powerful gastro-intestinal irritant causing intense pain and convulsions, and usually ends in a most unpleasant death. It is stated that properly cleaned and skinned the flesh of at least some of these fishes is wholesome, and many Eastern races do eat them, but deaths continually occur. These may be due to careless cleaning, but experimenting with our species is not advised. As well as being toxic, some types are spiny. Most are left severely alone by other creatures, and are in consequence among the boldest of fishes. Almost all are feeble swimmers, but merely by drifting with ocean currents, virtually immune from all attack, they have become widely distributed. Most possess the power of inflating the belly with air or water so as to become almost spherical, and when inflated with air they float comfortably belly upward. Large 37 414 BONY FISHES— Family D/ODONTIDAE predatory fishes have in various parts of the world been found dead, choked by an inllated Tetraodon wedged firmly in the throat. Objects of curiosity to the layman, most species have been known from the earliest times, and as they move about so freely and widely, it is not likely that many new forms will be discovered. The number of species recognised has indeed been halved in recent years. 5 of the 7 families are found in our area. This group is copiously illustrated here so that keys, while informative, are not strictly necessary. A. Caudal fin present in all stages. 1. Teeth in each Jaw fused to I unit ... 2. Fused teeth in each jaw, with distinct line of division in front. (a) Body robust, lateral line present. 2 families separated mainly by internal characters not easily determined by any but the expert. (i) Nostrils with 2 cavities ... (ii) Nostrils of one cavity though sometimes as 2 solid tentacles (h) Body somewhat compressed, no lateral line B. No caudal fin in adult DiodontiJac (1181 1189) Lui^occplialiclae (1 190 1200) Tetraodon! idac (1201 1207) Cantlunasleridac ( 1 208 - 1211) Molidac (1212 1214) Family DIODON I lDAK PORCUPINE FISHES: SPINY BEAASOPS: PF:NVTSSE Teeth in each jaw fused into one unit without suture in front, forming a powerful beak. Body covered with spines, short and stout, or longer and movable. Strangely enough, even the sharp spines do not appear to be poisonous. Body inflatable to almost or ejuite spherical. In this process the dorsal and anal fins arc often completely withdrawn below the inflated skin. Rather tubby spiny fishes of shallow water in all warm .seas, widely distributed. 8 genera recognised, 4 in our area, others likely here also. A. Spines all 2-rooted, movable . Diodon (1181 1183) B. Spines on head 2-rooted, others 3-rooted. 1. One nasal tube with 2 openings . Lophodiodon (1184) 2. Solid double nasal tentacles . Dicoiy/ichthys (1185) C. All spines 3-rooted, fixed .. Cyclichihys (1186 1 189) Genus Diodon Linnaeus, genotype Diodon hystrix Linn, single tube with 2 openings. 3 species known, all in our area. ■A. Fins not spotted . B. Black spots on fins. 1. Spines on forehead about 1 J, times eye . 2. Spines on forehead about twice eye . .All spines movable with 2 roots. Nostril a niacidi/er (1181) . hystrix (1182) holaeantliiis (1183) For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and FTunily and read there also. 1181. DIODON MACULIEER Kaup. [Diodon inaculatus Lac.] Porcupine Fish. Penvis. Literature L 4, 117, 222, 712. D 12. A 12. All spines 2-rooted, movable, about 16 series between snout and dorsal fin. No spines on peduncle. Dark above, variably with dark spots and patches, or spots alone. Fins plain. Attains 10 ins. In all warm seas, has been found from the Cape to Delagoa. Fig. 1181. D/ODO.\ MACULIFER Kaup. Actual length 5 ins. PLATE 98 hispidus, 5 ins. 1235. Antennarius higibbus (after Gunther). 1236. Antcnnarius coninwrsoni, 6 ins. biocellatus, A ins. 1238. Anlennarius coccineus, 4 ins. 1239. Antennarius pinniceps 4 ins. 1-40. Antennarius striatus, 3 ins. 1241. Antennarius oligospilos. 6 ins. 1242. Antennarius polvap/tlbalnius, 4 ins. 1243. Histrio histrio, 3 ins. .Actual Icnsth stated in each case. BONY FISHES— Family DIODONTIDAE 415 1182. DIODON HYSTRIX Linnaeus. Porcupine Fish. Penvis. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 105, 296, 328, 655, 712. Kig, 1182. DIODON HYSTRIX Linn. Left, adult, 12 ins. Right, juvenile, 2 ins, fully inflated. D 12. A 12. All spines 2-rooted movable. 14-17 series of spines between snout and dorsal fm, frontal spines shorter than the longest on the body, being about 1 1 times eye. Velvety brown marks on back, fins some¬ times yellowish. Attains at least 36 ins. In all warm seas, known from the Cape to Beira, often thrown ashore. Blown up almost spherical with spines erect this fish is a weird object. 1183. DIODON HOL.AC.'XNTHL'S Linnaeus. [Diodon spinosi.ssinms Gnthr.] Porcupine Fish. Penvis. Literature L 4, 105, 296, 712. D 12-13. A 12. All spines 2-rooted, movable. 14-17 series between snout and dorsal fin. Frontal spines at least as long as those on body, twice eye diameter. Velvety brown marks on back, fins sometimes yellowish. .Attains at least 20 ins. In all warm seas, has been found from the Cape to Natal. Genus Lophodiodon Fraser-Brunner, genotype the single species. Spines on head movable with 2 roots, the rest 3-rooted. Nostril a single tube with 2 openings. One species. 1184. LOPHODIODON CALORI (Bianconi). [Diodon calori or reticulatus Gnthr.] Porcupine Fish. Penvis. Spiny Blaasop. Literature L 4, 220, 296, 712. Plate 92, p. 398. D 12. A 12. Spines on head 2-rooted, the rest fixed, 3-rooted, about 17 series between snout and dorsal fin. 3-4 spines above each eye. 2 spines on each side of tail. A dark bar below eye, one before gill-opening, and a 3rd behind pectoral. A black spot on side before the dorsal origin. Dorsal base in a black spot. A filament above eye. Attains at least 20 ins. Found only on our east coast from East London northwards. Genus Dicotylichthys Kaup, genotype the single species. Spines on head movable with 2 roots, the rest 3-rooted. Nostril on each side of 2 solid tentacles. One species. 1185. DICOTYLICM I HVS PLNCTULATLS Kaup. [Diodon punctidatm.] Porcupine Fish. Literature L 4, 222, 296, 424, 712. D 12. A 12. Spines on head 2-rooted, movable, the rest fixed, 3-rooted. About 13 series between snout and dorsal fin. Spines on back short. Nasal tentacle double, solid. Black spots on body. A bar below eye, another before, and a 3rd behind pectoral. Attains 17 ins. An I ndo- Pacific species, found at the Cape, rare in our area. Genus Cyclichthys Kaup, genotype Diodon orbicularis Bloch. All spines fixed with 3 roots. One spine in middle of forehead. Nostril a single tube with 2 openings. 6 species known. 4 in our area. ■A. 2 spines above each eye. 1. With stripes along body 2. With spots on body ... B. 3 spines above each eye. 1. Skinny flaps at bases of some spines 2. No skinny flaps spinosus (1186) antennatus (1187) echinatus ( 1 1 88) orbicularis (1189) 416 BONY FISHES— Family LAGOCEPHALIDAE 1186. CYCLICHTHYS SPINOSUS (Linnaeus). [Dioclon spinosus, or schocpfi J. & E.] Spiny Blaasop Literature L 4, 105, 412, 712. D 12. A 10. All spines fixed, short, 3-rooted. A spine between eyes, and 2 above each eye. No spines on peduncle. Skinny flaps on side. Narrow stripes along body, a dark blotch behind pectoral, and one at base of dorsal. Fins plain. Attains 10 ins. An Atlantic species reported from the Cape, rare in our area. 1187. CYCI.ICHIHYS .4NTF.NN.4 1 US (Cuvier). [Diodon or Cbilomyctcrus anicnnatiis.] Spiny Blaasop. Literature L 4, 143, 296, 655, 712. Plate 92, p. 398. D 12. A 10-11. All spines fixed, short, 3-rooted. A spine between eyes, and 2 above each eye, often with a skinny flap between. Skinny flaps also along lower side. No spines on peduncle. Side and back with small black spots, a larger spot on nape, one kidney shaped above pectoral, a sub-triangular blotch along dorsal base. Fins plain. Attains 8 ins. An Atlantic species found at the Cape, rare in our area. 1188. CYCLICHTHYS F.CHIN.ATUS (Gronow). [Diodon echinaius.] Spiny Blaasop. Literature L 4, 214, 296, 712. D 12. A 11. Spines short, fixed, 3-rooted. One spine between eyes and 3 above each eye, about 1 1 series between snout and dorsal. No spines on peduncle. Slender skinny flaps at base of many spines. Attains 10 ins. Found from the Cape to Natal, and up the east coast of Africa. Kig. 1 1 S8. C YCUCHTH YS DCHINATUS (Gron.). Actual length 5 ins. Fig. 1189. CYCLICHTHYS ORBICULARIS (Bloch). .Actual length 6 ins. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. 1189. CYCLICin ilYS ORBIC UI.ARLS (Bloch). [Diodon or Chilomycicnis orhicidaris or caendeus Q. & G., or panoniaculoius von B.] Spiny Blaasop. Literature L 4, 14, 55, 118, 296, 712. D 12. A 12. Spines short, stout, fixed, 3-rooted. One spine between eyes and 3 above each eye. About 9 series between snout and dorsal. Attains 8 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far as the Cape, the most common of this family in our area, often thrown ashore, almost always seen fully inflated. Family LAGOCEPHALIDAE 2 large plates in each jaw with anterior suture forming a powertul beak. 2 distinct nostrils on each side. 2 lateral lines present, the lower sometimes only on the chin. Rather elongate fishes, some attaining a fair size, mostly of warmer waters. 5 genera, all found in our area, not easily distinguished, but the illustrations provided will aid the amateur. A. No lower lateral line on tail . B. A lower lateral line on tail. 1. A raised skin fold along tail and body. (a) Caudal lunate. (i) No spines on back (ii) Spines on back also (h) Caudal truncate or rounded ... 2. No raised skin fold along tail Sphaeroidi’s ( I 1 90 - 1191) Layocephahis ( 1 1 92- 1193) Gastrophysus ( 1 194-1 196) Torquigener (1197) A mhlyrhynchotes ( 1 ! 98- 1 200) BONY FISHES— Family LAGOCEPHALI DAE 417 Genus Sphaeroides Anonymous, genotype Tetrodon spengleri Bloch, No raised fold of skin or lower lateral line on tail. Caudal truncate or almost. About a dozen species of most seas, only 2 in our area. A. No spinules . cutaneus (1190) B. Spinules on belly . pleurospilm (1191) 1190. SPHAEROIDES CUTANEUS (Gnthr.). [Tetrodon cutaneus. Spheroides duhius von B.] Blaasop. Toby. Literature L 4, 296, 568. Plate 95, p. 406. Depth about 3.j. D 8-9. A 7-9. Body quite smooth, skin finely striated. Anal fully behind dorsal. Attains 15 ins. An Atlantic species, which has been found from the Cape to Natal down to 100 fathoms. 1191. SPHAEROIDES PLEUROSPILUS (Regan). [Tetrodon pleurospilus.] Blaasop. Toby. Literature 14,21,55,712. Plate 94, p. 406. Depth about 3. D 9. A 7. Body smooth, but spines on lower surface from chest to anal. Attains 10 ins. So far found only from Durban to Delagoa Bay, rare. Genus Lagocephalus Swainson, genotype Tetrodon kiftocephalus Linn. Caudal lunate. A raised fold ot skin, also a lateral line, on lower surface of tail. Space between eyes not longer than snout. 17 vertebrae. Spines on belly, not on back. 3 species known, 2 in our area, easily distinguished. 1192. LAGOCEPHALUS INERVIIS (Schlegel). [Tetrodon inermis.] Toby. Blaasop. Literature L 4, 14, 47, 194, 296, 328, 712. t-'ig. 1192. LAGOCEPHALUS tSERMtS (Schl.). Actual length 10 ins. Depth about 4. D 12. All-12. Body quite smooth, but granules along belly. Greenish above, silvery- white below. Attains 20 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, and not uncommon, reaches as far south as Algoa Bay, rare in our area. 119.3. LACOCEPH.AI.US L.AGOCEPHALUS (Linnaeus). [Tetrodon lagocephalus, or stellatus Don.] Blue Blaasop. Toby. Literature L 4, 14, 21, 67, 105, 296, 655. 712. Plate 94. p. 406. Depth 4- 6. D 13-14. A 12 -13. Body quite smooth except for spines on belly from below snout to vent. One of the largest species, attains at least 24 ins. Widespread in the Atlantic and Indian oceans, has been found from the Cape to Natal, sometimes seen in estuaries, but is primarily pelagic. Genus Gastrophysus Muller, genotype Tetrodon .sceteratus Forsk. Caudal lunate. A raised fold of skin, also a lateral line, on lower surface of tail. Space between eyes not longer than snout. 21 vertebrae. Spines on back as well as belly. 3 species, all in our area. A. Whole of back, or almost, spiny. 1. Spotted . sceleratus (1194) 2. Not spotted ... ... ... ••• • •• • lunaris (1195) B. Hind part of back naked... ... ... ... ■■■ ■ ■■ spadiceus (I \96) 418 BONY FISHES— Family LAGOCEPHALIDAE 1194. GASTROPHYSUS SCELERATUS (Forster). [Tctrodo/i or Lagocephalus scclerattis, or argenteus Lac., or hicolor Brcv.] Toby. Blaasop. Literature L 4, 14, 19, 251, 269, 296, 328, 712. Plate 94, p. 406. Body elongate. D 11-12. A 10-11. Whole body spinulose except the sides. A large species, attains at least 30 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, odd specimens appear on our shores from the Cape to Natal. .An unwholesome creature. In 1774 the famous explorer. Captain Cook, ate some of this fish in .Australia and became seriously ill, narrowly escaping death. 1195. GASTROPHYSUS EUN.ARIS (Bloch). [Tetrodon or Sphocroides luiuiris.] Yellow Toby. Blaasop. Literature L 19, 88, 127, 269, 296. 613, 712. Plate 93, p. 403. Depth about 4. D II 12. A 11-12. Snout, sides and whole of tail smooth, belly and whole of back spiny. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Knysna, not uncommon. 1196. GASTROPHYSUS SP.ADICEUS (Richardson). [Tetrodon spcidiccus.] Toby. Literature L 4, 47, 269, 296, 712. Plate 93, p. 403. Depth about 4. D 12. A 12. Snout, sides and whole of tail smooth, belly and front only of back spiny. .Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Knysna. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus, Family and to Order TETRAODONTOI DEA Genus Torquigener Whitley, genotype Spheroides lithcrculifcnis Ogilby. Caudal truncate or rounded. A raised fold of skin, also a lateral line on lower surface of tail. Space between eyes longer than snout. 21 vertebrae. Numerous species, only 1 in our area. 1197. TORQUIGENER OBl.ONGUS (Bloch). [Tetrodon or Sphoeroides ohlongus.] Toby. Blaasop. Literature L 4, 19, 117, 269, 296, 328, 712. Plate 9,3, p. 403. Depth 3-3|. D 12. .A 10-11. Flanks smooth, spines on back and belly and across body at pectoral. Attains 15 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay, not abundant in our area. Genus .Amblyrhynchotes Troschel, genotype Tetrodon honckenii Bloch. No raised fold of skin along lower surface of tail, but a lateral line there. Caudal truncate or rounded. 5 species known, 3 found here, easily distinguished by markings. 1198. .AMBLYRHYNCHOTES HONCKENII (Bloch). [Tetrodon honekenii, or olgoensis Cast. Sphoeroides marleyi Fwlr.] Literature L 4, 14, 16, 19, 34, 47, 117, 251, 269, 296, 712. Plate 9,3, p. 403. Depth about 3-3i. D 8-9. .A 7-8. Smooth on flanks, small spines on belly and back, and across body behind pectoral. Spines not prominent, often partly obsolete. Attains 12 ins. Widespread and abundant in the tropical Indo-Pacific, our most common species, ranging from the Cape to Natal northwards, found everywhere in rock pools, in estuaries, and down to 60 fathoms. In sandy areas is light grey, and buries itself for protection. .A pest to anglers, tears most baits rapidly, and even cuts lines, apparently quite casually. Highly poisonous, not touched by fishes or sea birds. Eaten by cats with rapidly fatal consequences, is sometimes employed to end nocturnal disturbances. 1199. AMBLYRHYNCHOTES HYPSELOGENION (Bleeker). [Tetrodon hypselogenion.] Toby. Blaasop. Literature L 4, 47, 205, 269, 296, 328, 712. Plate 9.3, p. 403. Depth about 3j. D 9. A 7-8. Whole of back, belly, and a band across body behind pectoral spiny. .Attains 7 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Algoa Bay, not common. PLATE 99 BONY FISHES— Family TETRAO DONT/DAE 419 1200. AMBLYRHYNCHOTES SPINOSIS- SIMLIS (Regan). [Tel melon spino.sissimu.s.] Toby. Literature L 4, 14, 485,495, 580,712. Depth 2-3. D 8. A 6-7. Whole body spiny except lips and caudal peduncle. Anal well behind dorsal. Attains 5 ins. An Indo-Pacific species which has been found as far south as East London. Rather rare in our area. Fig. 1200. AMBLYRHYNCHOTES SPINOSISSIMUS (Km.). Actual length 3^ ins. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus, Family and to Order TETRAODONTOIDEA. Family TETRAODONTIDAE 2 large plates in each jaw, with anterior suture forming a powerful beak. A single nostril on each side, sometimes in the form of two solid tentacles. I or 2 lateral lines. Rather heavy bodied fishes. 5 genera known, only 2 in our area. A. Nostril a single cavity with raised margin ... ... ... ... ... Che/onoclon (1201-1202) B. Nostril a solid double tentacle ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Arotbron (1203-1207) Genus Ghelonodon Miillcr, genotype Tetmclon patoca Hamilton. Body fairly elongate. Nostril single, with raised and expanded margin. Caudal not markedly rounded, but truncate to emarginate. Upper lateral line joins lower above anal. Only 3 species, 2 in our area. A. Spines on back reach dorsal origin ... ... ... ... ... ... ... patoca (1201) B. Spines on front of back only ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... laticeps (1202) 1201. CHELONODON PATOCA (Hamil¬ ton). [Tetroclon or Telraoclon patoca.] Toby. Literature L 4, 145, 269, 296, 328, 712. Depth about 3.‘. D 9-10. A 8-9. Whole of back to dorsal origin, and belly, spiny, body otherwise smooth. Nostril single with raised margin. Attains 15 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, rare. 1202. CHELONODON L.MICEPS Smith. CHELOSODON P.4TOC.A (Hdim.). After Day. I'oby. Literature L 88. Plate 95, p. 406. D 9-10. A 8. P 17. Lines of small spines along belly. Spines on back from interorbital to above pectoral ba.se. Rest of back and body smooth. Attains 4 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, has been found mainly in estuaries among weed as far south as Xora River. Genus .Arotbron Muller, genotype Tetroclon siellatu.s Bloch. Body rather heavy in front, and fairly deep. Caudal distinctly rounded. Nostril a solid double tentacle. No lower lateral line, upper curves down towards anal, then up towards caudal. 10 species known. 5 in our area, distinguished by markings. Not always easy to identify as changes occur with growth, and not all are fully known. These fishes are all able to inflate the body until it is almost spherical. A. Margins of caudal dark . immaciilatus (1203) B. Black spots on body above. 1. Black spots on belly . nigropunctatus (1204) 2. No black spots on belly. (rt) Dorsal fin spotted ... ... ... ... ... ... ... stellatus (1205) (h) Dorsal fin not spotted . aeroslaticiis (1206) C. Green-brown, with light spots on back ... ... ... ... ... hispidus (1207) 420 BONY FISHES- Family CANTHIG ASTER! DAE 1203. AROTHRON IMMACULATUS (Bloch). [Tctrodon immaciilalus, or virf;(ilu Rich.] Toby. Literature L 4, 19, 47, 127, 296, 328, 712. Plate 93, p. 40.T Depth about 3. D 9-10. A 9-10. Whole body spiny exeept lips and peduncle. Olive-yellow, lighter below, sometimes thin stripes. Upper and lower margins of caudal black, also pectoral base. Attains 12 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches as far south as Port Alfred, usually found in weedy areas, often in estuaries. 1204. .4ROTHRON NICROPF NCIWrilS (Bloch). [Tctrodon niitropunciatiis.] Toby. Literature L 88, 127, 269,296, 328, 613, 712. Plate 94, p. 406. Body mostly spiny. D 9-10. A 9 10. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Delagoa Bay. Blows itself up almost spherical as shown, a rather beautiful creature. 1205. .AROTHRON STELL.A'TL'S (Bloch). [Tctrodon stcHatus.] Toby, l.iteraturc L 14, 21, 27 5 . 328, 712. Plate 95, p. 406. Heavy clumsy spiny body. D 10-11. A 10-11. One of the largest of this group, growing to at least 36 ins. in length, and attaining a great weight. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacitic, reaches as far south as Knysna. 1206. .AROTHRON .AEROSTAITCUS (.lenyns). [Tctrodon ocrostaticus, or Uncutus BIkr.] Toby. Literature L 4, 21, 47. 181. 296, 712. Plate 94, p. 406. Heavy flabby body. D 10-11. .A 10-11. Whole body spiny. Colour varies from brown to orange or green. .Attains 8 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Knysna. A most striking rather bold small fish. Lor full information about any fish turn back to Genus. Family and to Order TLTRAODONTOIDEA 1207. .AROTHRON HISPIDUS (Lacepede). [Tctrodon hispidus, or implulus BIkr.] Toby. Blaasop. Literature L 4, 19, 47, 126. 296, 328, 712. Plate 93, p. 403. Flabby short body. D 10. A 10. Whole body spiny. Attains 20 ins. Widespread in the tropieal Indo-Pacific, extends as far south as Knysna. The young are plentiful in weeds in tidal estuaries. Readily inflates itself so as to become almost spherical. Family CAMT l IG A.STER I OAF. Rather compressed body with rough skin, somewhat ridged on back. 2 large plates in each jaw, with suture in front forming a powerful beak. Nostrils single, usually inconspicuous. No lateral line. Rather brightly coloured small fishes, of the w'armest shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific, only rarely seen in our area. The single genus Canthigaster Swainson, about a dozen species recognised, 4 recorded from our region, distinguished by- markings. .A. Heavy cross-bars B. 2 dark stripes along body C. No cross-bars or stripes ... 1. Large black spot at dorsal base 2. No large black spot at dorsal base \ (dent ini (1208) caudojasciatus ( 1209) margoritatus (1210) amhoinensis (121 I ) 1208. CANTHIG.ASTER A’.ALENTINI (Bleeker). [Psiltmotus or Tropidichthys vedentini.] Blaasop. Zeehaan (East Indies). Literature L 212, 269, 296, 712. Plate 94, p. 406. D 9-10. A 8-9. Body fairly compressed. .Attains 8 ins. Widespread and not uncommon in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found from Delagoa Bay northwards, rare in our area. Smaller fishes have rounded blue and orange spots on the sides. Grunts when taken from the water. PLATE 100 1094a. juvenile 10 ins. llOIa. Ophichthyspolyophthalmus, 20 ins. ' ’ f 21 ins. 1126. LvcorffwOT s/eW/enw (after Bleeker). 1 128. Lvcot/otito ,/?at'o/«eitvs. 6 ins. (I.APRIDAE no descnp ion in text). 806. Cons ungulala, 5 ins. (Based on colour photo. C. A. Whysall.) 923a. Gohius inh'aai 13 ins. 'iiyd. Hetereleoms eusenius. 2 \n%. Actual length stated in each case BONY FISHES— Family BATRACHOIDIDAE 423 A. Scales absent. 1. Neither foramen nor pocket behind pectoral axil. (a) 1 lateral line ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Gymnohatrachus (I2I5-6) {h) 3 lateral lines . Batrichihys (1217) 2. A round pocket behind pectoral base . Austrohatrachus (1218) B. Scales present . Chatrahus (1219) Genus Gymnobatrachus Smith, genotype Amphichtliys ophiocephatus Smith. Scales absent. No foramen or pocket behind pectoral. 3 dorsal spines. Soft dorsal with 18-22, anal with 14-18 rays. Gill-openings not narrower than pectoral base. 1 lateral line. Found only in South Africa, 2 species. A. Skin on top of head much wrinkled ... ... ... ... ... ... apiatus (1215) B. Skin on top of head fairly smooth . ophiocephatus (1216) 1215. GYMNOBATRACHUS API.ATUS (Cuvier). [Marcgravia or Amphichthys or Opsanus apiatus.] Frogfish. Literature L 4, 165, 201, 655. Plate 96, p. 410. Depth about 4L Dill- 20-22. A 14-18. 2 sub-opercular spines. Outline of mouth from above little curved. 9-12 unequal teeth on palatine. Body with marked transverse skin folds. 2 series of teeth in front of jaws. Attains 7 ins. So far found only in and about False Bay, Cape. 1216. GY.MNOBA TRACHUS OPMIOCEPM.CIX'S (Smith). [Amphichthys ophiocephatus.] Frogfish. Literature L 86. Plate 96, p. 410. Depth about 6.1-7. D 111-1-19-21. A 16-18. 1-3 sub-opercular spines. Outline of mouth well curved. Palatine teeth sub-equal. Attains only 3 ins. Algoa Bay to the Kei River, mainly in tide-pools beneath stones. Although sluggish, this species blends perfectly with the background, and is expert at concealment. The eggs are shed in the early spring. Genus Batrichthys Smith, genotype the single species. Scales absent. .No foramen or pocket behind pectoral. 3 dorsal spines. Soft dorsal of about 19, anal of about 14 rays. Gill-openings not narrower than pectoral base. 3 lateral lines. Head and body little depressed. Pharyngeal teeth equal in size. 1217. B.^TRICMTHYS .\LB()FASCTA TLS Smith. Frogfish. Literature L 63. Plate 96, p. 410. Fig. 1217. BATRICHTHYS ALSO/ .4SCI.4TUS Smith. Actual length 5 ins. Depth about 5. D 111^19. A 14. 2 sub-opercular spines, parallel. Upper L.l. to base of soft dorsal, median along middle of side, obscure, lower down to anal origin and along anal base. Brownish. Known from 1 specimen 5 ins. long from Great Fish Point, thrown ashore, probably from deeper water. Genus .Austrohatrachus Smith, genotype Pseudohat rachus Joedu.s Smith. Scales absent. A large imperforate pocket in pectoral axil. 3 dorsal spines. Soft dorsal with 18—22, anal with 15-18 rays. Gill-openings much wider than pectoral base. 1 lateral line. South America and South Africa, 1 species in our area. 1218. AUSTROBATRACHUS FOEDUS (Smith). [Pseudohatrachus foedus.] Frogfish. Literature L 86. Plate 96, p. 410. Depth about 5]. D 1114-21. A 16. 1 sub-opercular spine. Skin between eyes wrinkled. A large pocket behind pectoral axil above. Found from Algoa Bay to the Kei River, thrown up after storms, obviously from deeper water. 424 BONY FISHES— Family BATRACHOID! DAE Genus Chatrabus Smith, genotype Batmchoidcs mclanwus Barnard. Body scaly, scales hidden in mucus. No axillary foramen or pocket behind pectoral. Dorsal with 3 spines, and less than 24 soft rays, spines solid. South Africa only, 2 species, easily distinguished, one from the south, the other from the west coast. 1219. CHATRABUS IV1LLANURUS (Barnard). [Bawochoulcs inckinurus.] Frogfish. Literature L 4 Plate 96, p. 410. Depth about 4. D III ■ 18-20. A 13-16. Eye rarely smaller than 5 in head length. Head smooth above. Teeth in 2-3 rows. L.l. pores double. Attains 10 ins. Cape to Natal, usually in 20 100 fathoms, sometimes taken on lines in shallower water, not uncom?nonly thrown up after storms. 1220. CHAIR.ABUS D.AMARANUS (Barnard). [Bcitraclioiclcs damaranus.^ Frogfish. Literature L 4. Fig. 1220. CHATRABUS DAMARAMS (Brnrd.). Actual length 10 ins. Depth about 4L D 111 19. A 13. Eye 7 in head. Head smooth above. Teeth in 3 rows. L.l. pores single. Colour in life not known. So far only a single specimen, 10 ins. long, from Walfish Bay. 1221. B.ATH\ B.ATR.ACHL S .ALBOLINE.ATUS Gilchrist and von Bonde. [Butrachoides a/hoiinealus.] Frogfish. Literature L 4. 49. Fig. 1221. BATHYBATRACHUS ALBOLINEATUS G. & von B. After von Bonde. Actual length 6i ins. BONY FISHES— Family LOPHUDAE 425 Depth about 4. D HI : 18. A 14. Eye about 3i in head. L.l. pores double. Peetoral reaches well beyond anal origin. Body with dark markings, a white bar across caudal base, fins darker. Described from 1 specimen bi ins. long taken in 1924 in 250 fathoms off Natal. Impossible to place accurately as there is no information about scales or nature of the membrane behind the pectoral, and the type appears to have been lost. Any of these Frogfishes, especially in Natal, should be carefully preserved, as it is important that full information should be obtained about this species (No. 1221). ORDER PEDICULATI (1222-1243) ANCEERFISHE.S: FISHINCFROGS: MONKS Abnormal, highly specialised fishes, mostly of deep to very deep water, which obtain food by skill, conceal¬ ment and stealth, having sacrificed mobility to that end. Scales usually obsolete, skin often with many flaps or cilia. Only 2-3 gill-openings, usually reduced. The front dorsal spines are modified to form some sort of movable lure (illicium) with fringes, filaments or even luminous organs, with which to attract other creatures to their doom. All have a powerful pectoral with elbow-like bend, used to lever up the body to grasp nearby prey. They hold and manage to swallow fishes of surprising size. Not many families, and the limits of each are sometimes ill-defined, 8 in our area, sometimes distinguished only by internal features. A. Body depressed, head broad. 1. Body soft, mouth large 2. Body spiny, hard, mouth small . ... . B. Body not depressed. 1. No pelvics. ia) Not more than 6 dorsal rays. (i) Mouth protrusible ... (ii) Mouth not protrusible. (.v) Pelvic bones triradiate . ( 1') Pelvic bones expanded behind {h) 12 17 dorsal rays 2. Pelvics present. {a) I dorsal spine {h) 3 dorsal spines ... Family EOPHIIDAF ANCFFRS: MONKS; ANGLFRFISHFS Large flabby fishes, with great depressed head and enormous mouth, fitted with large depressible canines. 3 isolated anterior filamentous dorsal spines, followed by 3 smaller behind in one fin. Head and body often cosered with concealing skinny filaments. Pectoral powerful, but little bent. Mostly large bottom-dwelling fishes of fairly deep water. They lie perfectly concealed awaiting prey, which is attracted by the moving filaments of the spines. The young bear spiny projections about the head, but these disappear with growth. Found in all seas, few genera, 3 in our area. .A. Gill-opening extends in front of pectoral base above ... ... ... Lophiodes (1222-1223) B. Gill-opening never in front of pectoral base above. 1. 6 7 anal rays ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Lophiomus (1224) 2. 8-11 anal rays... ... ... ... ... ... .. ... ... Lophius (1225) Genus Lophiodes Goode & Bean, genotype Lophius nnitilus .AIck. Gill-opening to above and below pectorals, in front above. 2nd spinous dorsal variable, sometimes much reduced. Teeth in 3^ series in lower jaw. 5-6 anal rays. 19 vertebrae. A few species from deep water of the Indo-Pacific, 2 in our area. A full series from different localities may show that only 1 form exists. A. 3-5 dorsal spines ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... mutilus (1222) B. 6 dorsal spines ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... insidiator (1223) Lophiidae ( 1 222- 1 225) Ogcocephah'dae ( 1 226- 1 228 ) Ceratiidae (1229) Himuiuolophidae (1230) Oneirodidae (1231) Meianocoetidae (1232) Chaunacidae (1233) Antennariidae ( 1 234-1 243) 426 BONY FISHES— Family LOPHUDAE 1222. EOPHIODES MUTILUS (Alcock). [Lophius or Chirolophius muii/iis, or quinquenidiatu.s Brauer.] Angler. Literature L 4, 49, 393, 419, 462, 493, 695. D Ill-V r 7-9. A 5-6. P 15-17. Eye 5-7 in head, about equal to interorbital. Humeral spine with 1-5 points. Brownish. Attains 24 ins. Widespread in the central Indo-Pacific, 100 .500 lathoms, has been taken ofF Natal. 1223. LOPHIODES INSIDIATOR (Regan). [Chirolophis insuHator.] Angler. Literature L 4, 14, 21, 39, 45, 572. DVl-^8. A 6. P 18. Eye 5 in head, about equal to interorbital. Humeral spine with 2 points. Attains 10 ins. So tar found only off Natal in 40-250 fathoms. Probably the same as No. 1222. Genus Lophionius Gill, genotype Lophius sctigcrus Vahl. Gill-opening not before pectoral base above. 19 vertebrae. 6 dorsal spines. 6-7 anal rays. 1 species. 1224. LOPHIOML'S SE'I'KJERLIS (Vahl). [Lophius seiigcrus, or upsicephalus Smith, or iiulicus Ale.) .\ngler. Literature L 4, 39, 58. 200, 248, 415. 419, 442. Fig. 1224. LOPHIOML S SPTIGERL'S (Vahl). .Aficr Smith. D VI — 8-9. .A 6-7. P 22-23. 2 alternate series of teeth in upper. 3 in lower jaw. Sometimes darkish rings or marblings. .Attains at least 40 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific in 20-200 fathoms, has been found from the Cape to Natal, not common here. Genus Lophius Linnaeus, genotype Lophius piscaiorius Linn. Gill-openings not before pectoral base above. 27-32 vertebrae. 8-11 anal rays. .A few species, widely distributed, in fairly to very deep water in most seas, 1 in our area. 1225. LOPHIUS PISC.VrORIlS Linnaeus. Angler. Monk, .\nglertish. Literature L 4, 105, 165, 455. 655. Fig. 1225. LOPHIUS PISCATORIVS Linn. Aclual length .5 ft. BONY FISHES— Family OGCOCEPHALl DAE All Broad head with large mouth and recurved teeth. D VI 10-12. A 8-11. P 25-28. Humeral spine trifid. Brown or slaty grey, lighter on belly. Pectorals with black margin. Attains at least 4 ft. Mediter- rtmean and Atlantic, found from Saldanha Bay to East London in 10-200 fathoms, quite abundant in some areas. A repulsive and rapacious fish. One taken alive had half its own weight of fish in its capacious belly. When captured by trawl, Monks are almost always fully gorged, the fish evidently not being able to resist the close proximity of easily available food. Despite the repulsive appearance the flesh is delicate and tasty, but while valued in Europe, is not usually eaten here. The eggs of this fish are laid embedded in a wide flat ribbon of mucus which drifts about. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Fami ly OGCOCEPHALIDAE BAT FISHES: RATTLEFISHES Spiny depressed fishes with broad flat head and body, tail slender, tapering. Small mouth, with feeble teeth. No true fin spines, one modified dorsal spine on snout, with short stalk and skinny flap (illicium). Pectorals mu.scular, limb-like. Pelvics jugular, stated to be used as limbs by means of which these fishes crawl about. Sluggish bottom dwellers, mostly in deep or very deep water, who lie in wait for food. The gill-openings are near the hind margin of the disc. These fishes easily dry out in the wind without decomposition. In the Far East the inside of the dried fish is scraped out, some small pebbles put in, the aperture closed, the spines smoothed down, and the whole used as a baby's rattle. 3 genera in our area, each with 1 species here. A. Disc almost circular ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . Halieutea (1226) B. Disc somewhat triangular. 1. Forehead produced ... ... ... ... . . • ■ ■■ ••• ■ Malthopsis (1227) 2. Forehead not produced ... ... ... . . ••• • Dihranchus (1228) Genus Halieutea Cuvier, genotype Halieuta stellata Cuv. Disc almost circular. No teeth on palate. Gill- rakers present, small. Only 1 species in our area. 1226. HALIEUTEA FI TZSTMONSI (Gilchrist & Thompson). [Halieutea Hogaster Rgn. Halieutichthys fitzsimonsi.] Batfish. Literature L 19, 46, 67. Plate 97, p. 413. D 5. A 4. P 14. Attains 14 ins. Has so far been found in 10-60 fathoms only between Plettenberg Bay and East London, also in the Buffalo River, not uncommon. Genus Malthopsis Alcock, genotype Malthopsis luteus Alcock. Disc more or less triangular, forehead with pointed projection overhanging snout, tentacle beneath the projection. Teeth on vomer and palatines. Several Indo-Pacific species, 1 in our area. 1227. MALTHOPSIS FRIANGULARIS Lloyd. Batfish. Literature L 4, 49, 493. Fig. 1227, p. 428. D 1-5. A 4. .Attains 3 ins. An Indian Ocean form from deep water, has been found off Natal in 260 fathoms, rare in our area. Genus Dihranchus Peters, genotype Dihranchus atlanticus Peters. Disc more or less triangular, forehead not produced. No teeth on palate. No gill-rakers. In deep water of most seas. One species in our area. 1228. DIBRANCHUS STELLULATUS Gilbert. Batfish. Literature L 4, 49, 458. Fig. 1228, p. 428. D I • 5. A 4. P 14-15. Attains 3 ins. Deep water of the Pacific, has been found off Natal in 260 fathoms, rare in our area. 428 BONY FISHES — Family CERATII DAE Fig. 1227. MALTHOPSIS TRIASCVLARIS Lloyd. After Lloyd. Fig. 1228. DIRRANCIWS STELLULATVS Gilb. .After Gilbert. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family CER.\riU).\E ANGLERS Compressed naked body with small eye. Mouth almost vertical. Soft dorsal and anal short, of 3 4 rays. Front dorsal spine long and slender, w'ith apical bulb. No pelvics. Curious Angler Fishes of the abyss, mostly small, a few' of large size, peculiar among fishes in that the males are minute and degenerate, and in the adult form incapable of independent existence. The free sw'imming young male attaches itself to the skin of a female by its mouth, which fuses into the female. The small male then lives fully parasitic on the female, having no external mouth opening of its own. 3 genera known, but in our area only the genus C ryptopsaras Gill, genotype Cryptopsaras couesii Gill. Skin with fine prickles. Bulb (illicium), set close to the bone on the end of the spine. A few species, all small, I in our area. 1229. CRYPTOPSARAS COUESII Gill. Lit¬ erature L 4, 355, 367, 412, 462, 619, 605, 632. D T- I * 4. A 4. Caudal 8. P 16. Eyes probably not functional. 2 series of teeth in each jaw. Black. Attains 8 ins. In almost all seas, 300-2,000 fathoms, has been found off the Cape. One of the least rare of these curious fishes. Fig. 1229. CR yPTOl’SA RAS COUESI/ G\n. After Goode & Bean. Actual length 1.1 ins. bony FISHES— Families HIMANTOLOPHIDAE, ONEIRODIDAE eLnCi M ELANOCOETIDAE 429 Family HIMANTOLOPHIDAE Compressed naked body with small eye. Mouth not protrusible. Soft dorsal and anal short. Some species with front dorsal spine rather robust, with terminal large bulb, usually with many filaments. No pelvics. Smallish anglers of moderately deep water in most oceans. The males are free swimming, small, and rather degenerate, with spiny skin but no dorsal spine. 3 genera, m our area only 1, Himantolophus Reinhardt, genotype Himantolophus groenlanclicus Rnhrdt., with few species, I in our area. 1230. HIMANTOLOPHUS GROEN- i.ANDlCUS Reinhardt. [Himantolophus rein- hardtii Lutk.] Literature L 4, 327, 394, 483. Depth about I',. D 1 + 5. A 4. P 16-17. Usually blackish. Attains 14 ins. Found at odd spots over all the oceans, has been cast ashore in our area. Family ONEIRODIDAE Fig. 1230. HIMANTOLOPHUS G ROENLA N DICUS Rnhdt. Actual length 14 ins. Compressed naked body with small eye. Mouth not protrusible. Soft dorsal and anal short. Most forms with illicium, bulb usually simple. No pelvics. Mostly rather tiny anglers of great depths. The males are free swimming but small degenerate spiny fishes, often even without teeth. Numerous genera, in our area only I, genus Dolopichfhys Carman, genotype Dolopichihys Fig. 1231. DOLOPICHTHYS CORNUTUS (G. & von B.) After von Bondc. Actual length J in. allector Carman. Numerous probably artificial small species based on the nature of the illicium, 1 in our area. 1231. DOLOPICHTHYS CORNUTUS (Cil- christ & von Bonde). [Oneirodes cornuius.] Literature L 49. D 1-T 4. Anal not visible. A spine behind angle of mouth. Uniform blaek. Known from one specimen J in. long from our seas, exact locality and depth not reeorded. Family MELANOCOETIDAE 1232. MELANOCOETUS ROTUNDATUS Cilchrist. Literature L 27, 47. Body soft and flabby. D 1-14-15. A 4. 8-9 caudal rays. Uniform black. Known from 1 specimen li ins. long taken off the Cape in 600 fathoms. Another smaller, probably the same, from Natal. Soft body, somewhat compressed, with small eye. Mouth large, not protrusible. Soft dorsal of 12-17 rays, anal short. No pelvics. An illicium sometimes present, then bulb usually simple with at most one appendage. Rather tiny fishes of great depths. Males are free swimming, but small and degenerate, with spiny skin. A few genera, in almost all seas, in our area only the genus Melanocoetus Cunther, genotype Melanocoetus johnsoni Cunther, which has an illicium. Not many species, found in the depths of most seas, all small, I in our area. Fig. 1232. MELANOCOETUS ROTUNDATUS C\c\\. After Gilchrist. Actual length IJ ins. 430 BONY FISHES— Families CHAUNACIDAE and ANTENNARIIDAE Family CHAUNACIDAP: Flabby body with rough skin. Large mouth, almost vertical, w'ith small teeth. Gill-openings small, behind pectoral base. No fin spines, only modified spine (illicium) on snout, w-hich can be withdraw-n into a groove Pelvics small. The belly highly inflatable. One genus, Chaunax Low'e, with only one species, found in deep water of all seas. 1233. CHAUNAX PICTUS Lowe. Literature L 4, 19, 21, 39, 572, 695. Plate 95, p. 406. Skin rough. DI M. A 5 7. P 11-12. Attains 18 ins. In 100 200 fathoms over wide areas of the seas, cast ashore, especially after storms, from Knysna to Natal. The fish apparently conceals itself in mud or sand and moves the modified spine on the snout as a lure, engulfing any small fishes so attracted. Family ANTENNARIIDAE TOAD-FISHES: KISHINC. FROCLS Compressed rather lumpy and misshapen body. No scales, skin smooth or rough. Mouth oblique, with small teeth, also on palate. Gill-openings small, below pectoral base. Pectoral with long base and elbow-like bend. Dorsal with separate spines in front, the 1st on snout slender, movable, with fringed apex, the 2nd and 3rd enveloped in thick skin. These small degenerate fishes are found in most warm seas. They live mainly about reefs and rocks among weed, where their shape and markings render them virtually invisible. As they can inflate the body to some extent, they have little difficulty in drifting with floating weed by which they are completely concealed. The filaments of the lure (spine), on the snout can be moved to attract fishes and other creatures. It is an education to see this fish at work. With body perfectly still but tensed, and with eyes glued on the prospective prey, the filaments are moved about to resemble a writhing worm. They even change colour with varying iridescence. As the small fish darts forward to .seize this tasty morsel, levered by the pectorals the Toadfish shoots out and with open mouth engulfs its prey. Probably variable in colour and markings, numerous species have been described. It is difficult to define them accurately. 2 genera. A. Skin rough ... ... ... ... ... ... . Antcnnarius (1234-1242) B. Skin smooth . ,1243, Genus Antennarius Lacepede, genotype Lophius chironectes Lac. Skin rough, prickly. Pelvics small. Soft dorsal and anal not joined to caudal. Usually filaments and skinny flaps about head and body. Numerous nominal species, 9 in our area provisionally accepted. All are figured here, but no attempt is made to cover the somewhat confused synonymy. .All fishes of this type should be preserved and taken to Museums. 1234. ANTENNARIUS HISPIDUS Bloch. Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 4 19 47 328 Plate 98 p. 415. D I - 1 • I-i 12. 1st spine with simple flap. A 7. Colour variable, pattern fairly constant. Attains 8 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, shore to 50 fathoms, has been found as far south as Knysna, fairly common in our area. 1235. ANTENN.ARIUS BICIBBUS (Lacepede). Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 4, 55. 1 26, 248, 3 1 7, Plate 98, p. 415. DI-1 • I-t-12, 1st spine with simple flap. A 7. Colour and pattern variable, anal usually with black band. Attains 8 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal. 1236. ANTE.NNARIUS COMMERSONII (Shaw). Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 131. 248, 461, 613. Plate 98, p. 415. D I-I : I r 13-14, 1st spine with simple flap. A 7-8. Rather uniformly coloured, mottlings variable. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal. PLATE lO: 351. Svngnatiws cyanospihs, 4 ins. 352. Sy>,i;nalhus spicifer, 6 ins. 425a. Cephalophotis 461. dplet’naihus conwavi, juvenile, 4 ins. 487. Apogon noreni/ascialus 3 ins., golden form. 605b. Chaetodon trifciscialis, 5 ins. 1046a. Pterois anlennata. 1 ins. 1050. Dendrochirus braclivpienis. 4 ms. in each case Actual length stated BONY FISHES -Family ANTENNARIIDAE 431 1237. ANTENNARIUS BIOCELLATUS Bleeker. Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 88, 269. Plate 98, p. 415. D I • 1 : I • 12, 1st spine with simple flap. A 7. Colour variable, but the large ocellus at dorsal base always obvious. Attains 10 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found from East London to Delagoa Bay. 1238. ANTENNARIUS COCCINEUS Lesson & Garnet. [Antennarius leucus Fowler.] Toadfish. Fishing Prog. Literature L 19, 248. Plate 98, p. 415. D 1 : I + I : 12-13, 1st spine bulbous at tip. A 7. Colour and pattern somewhat variable. Attains 4 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal. 1239. AN TENNARIUS PINNICEPS Valenciennes. Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 19, 248, 613. Plate 98. p. 415. D 1 ■ 1 + 1+12-13, 1st spine divided at tip into 3 long flaps. A 7-8. Colour and markings variable, mostly streaked. Attains 7 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found in Natal and Delagoa Bay. 1240. ANTENNARIUS STRIATUS (Shaw). Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 4, 19, 47, 165, 317 Plate 98, p. 415. 1) I I i 1+12, 1st spine divided into 3 flaps. A 7. Colour variable, body and fins streaked. Attains 7 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found as far south as Port Alfred. 1241. ANTENNARIUS OLIGOSPILOS Bleeker. Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 88, 269, 613. Plate 98, p. 415. D I I : 1 + 11, 1st spine with fringed lobe. A 7. Colour variable, but many of the larger spots more or less constant. Attains 7 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Durban and Delagoa Bay. The fish illustrated was rather portly. Barely 6 ins. in length, he had managed to catch and to swallow a Scavenger (No. 702), and a Karanteen (No. 732), each 4 ins. long. These were packed neatly, side by side, and head to tail, in his capacious maw. 1242. ANTENNARIUS POLYOPHTHALMUS Bleeker. Toadfish. Fishing Frog. Literature L 248, 269. Plate 98, p. 415. Dili I+I2 13, 1st spine with fringed lobe. A 7. Colour variable, but many of the dark spots more or less constant. Attains 5 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Delagoa Bay. Genus Ilistrio Fischer, genotype Lophius histrio Linn. Skin smooth. Pelvics about as long as pectoral from “ elbow ”. Soft dorsal and anal not joined to caudal. Usually skinny flaps. A few nominal species, rather ill-defined, probably only one. 1243. HISTRIO Hl.S'TRIO (Linnaeus). [Plerophryne histrio. Antennarius marmoratus Lesson.] Toadfish. Sargassum Fish. Literature L 4, 105, 248, 269, 613. Plate 98, p. 415. D I : 1 + 1 • 12 14. 1st spine small, somewhat bulbous at tip, with 2 or more filaments. A 7-8. Colour and pattern rather variable. Known by the velvety skin and long pelvics. Found in all tropical waters, often among floating weeds (Sargassum), by which it is perfectly concealed. DISTRIBUTION CHART OF SOUTH AFRICAN FISHES This chart is based upon the latest knowledge of the distribution of fishes found in our waters, and provides a good deal of information, which will be better appreciated if the chapter on the South African Region (p. 7) is studied beforehand. The two heavy outer lines confine the South African region, extending from W'alfish Bay to Beira. The intermediate heavy line at Cape Town shows the division between the cold seas of the west coast of average temperature about 12° C. (55° F.), and the warmer waters of the south and east coast, where approximate mean temperatures are, Knysna 16° C. (62° F.), East London 1 7 C. (64° F.), Durban 22° C. (72° F.), and Beira 25° C. (78° F.). Initially the chart provides in synoptic form a record of our species showing Classes, Orders and Families. As their distributional lines do not extend beyond the limiting lines of our region, endemic species may be recognised at a glance, and the origin of extra-limital species shows plainly, the Indo-Pacific being clearly displayed as the source of most of our forms. By using this chart one may rapidly determine how- many different species in different zones occur off any particular spot, for it is necessary tnercly to sec how many- horizontal distributional lines are cut by the vertical of that place. I hus the naturalist may expect to find 16 of the 28 known endemic CLINID.AE (No. 977 on), in the rock pools of East London, about the same number at Knysna and about a dozen in Table Bay. Naturally a simple chart of this type has certain limitations. In the case of bathypelagic and of abyssal fishes, information about distribution is often scanty. When abyssal fishes are found at odd points, as off Cape Town and off Durban, while they may well occur throughout the intermediate area, information is mostly lacking. Pelagic fishes are often migratory and may not be present in one area all the year round, while odd specimens of fishes may be carried by currents and found far from what is really their normal habitat. In such cases, and also where there is doubt of genuine continuity, distribution is sometimes shown by broken lines. The column “ZONE" gives a rough division into the categories: .A .Abyssal, B Bathypelagic, D — Bottom dwelling types of fairly deep water, neither Littoral nor .Abyssal, E Estuarine to fresh water, L -Littoral, P— Pelagic. Naturally in synoptic form this can at best be an approximation only. Thus the Kabeljou (No. 552), commonly regarded as a littoral form because it is so often caught from the shore and in estuaries, is more abundant in deeper water, to 2{X) fathoms, and it is here listed in Zone D. While normally littoral, fishes like the DIODONTID.AE (No. 1181 on) and the B.ALISTI E).AE (No. 1155 on) roam so freely that they might from that angle be termed Pelagic, and there are many other comparable cases. Species bearing the following numbers are not shown in this Chart : 59a, 77a, 264a, 298a, 38.1a, 425a, 440a, 495a, 605a, 605b. 746a, 792a. 817a. 854a, 902a, 915a. 925a, 935a. 956a. 970a, 973a, l()44a. I()94a, 1098a, 1098b, llOOa, llOla, 1130a. 1130b, 1131a. Also those in the .Appendix are not shown here. 432 No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 II 12 13 14 15 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 CLASS CHONDRICHTHYES SUB-CLASS EUSELACHII Order DIPLOSPONDYLI Family HEPTRANCHIDAE Hcxanchus griseus . Heptranchias cepedianus . „ pectorosus . Order ASTEROSPONDYLI Family HETERODONTID AE Heterodontus japonicus . Family GALEORHINIDAE Eulamia limbata . „ obscura . „ melanoptera . „ dussumieri . „ lamia . Glyphis glaucus . Scoliodon vagatus . „ walbeehmi . ,, palasorrah . Galeocerdo cuvier . Galeorhinus galeus . Scylliogaleus queketti . Mustelus manazo . „ punctulatus . „ canis . „ mustelus . Family SPHYRNIDAE Sphyrna zygaena . Family ALOPIIDAE Alopias vulpinus . Family HALSYDRIDAE Halsydrus maximus . Family CARCHARIIDAE Carcharias tricuspidatus . „ taurus . Family ISURIDAE Carcharodon carcharias . Lamna nasus . Isurus glaucus . Family RHINCODONTIDAE Rhincodon lypus . DISTRIBUTION CHART X o < 0 O 3 U Q < < “: < ° O < U 5 0 2 o I I p p p i — ‘ P ! ■ i I ' I I t ! I I I I '■ > — — * P I ■ ’ • I 433 No. 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 CLASS CHONDRICHTHYES Family ORECTOLOBIDAE Stegostoma fasciatum . Chiloscyllium plagiosum . „ griseum . „ indicum . Family SCYLIORHINIDAE Cephaloscyllium sufflans . Poroderma marleyi . „ pantherinum . „ africanum . Scyliorhinus capensis . Haploblepharus edwardsi . Halaelurus natalensis . Pentanchus microps . Holohalaelurus punctatus . ,, regani . Order CYCLOSPONDYLl Family DALATllDAE Echinorhinus brucus . Heteroscymnoides marleyi . Dalatias licha . Family SQUALIDAE Atractophorus armatus Centroscymnus fuscus . Deania eglantina . Etmopterus granulosus „ spinax . „ lucifer . Squalus fernandinus . „ acanthias . Order SQUATINAE Family SQUATINIDAE Squatina africana . Order PRISTIOPHORAE Family PRISTIOPHORIDAE Pristiophorus cirratus . Pliotrema warreni . Order RAJAE Family PRISTIDAE Pristis microdon . „ pectinatus . Family RHINOBATIDAE Rhynchobatus djeddensis Rhinobatos blochii . „ obtusus . „ annulatus „ schlegeli . DISTRIBUTION CHART >- u p Z 03 2 I 1- 0 ? 0 H < z < m < 0 Q tf) z I z < < u < 0 0 z z < > U 0 0 D < < < **■ < J u a. >■ “> K 5 H 0 lU h u 0 0 < z -I D Ul ill < 0 < 0 a. z 0 < iii tf) 0 (/) o m 5 0 a. 0 oca No. 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 distribution chart < z >• m X $ < j- 0 < o 0 H z < > j u 0 Q. > > 0 2 < z > D. z u < Stoasodon narinari Myliobatis cervus aquila Pteromylaeus bovinus Taeniura lymma Dasyatis uarnak „ pastinacus brevicaudatus „ purpureas Anacanthobatis marinoratus Gymnura japonica „ natalensis Mobula diabolus Manta birostris .. Family TORPEDINIDAE Narke capensis Heteronarce garmani Torpedo marmorata „ nobiliana SUB-CLASS 2. HOLOCEPHALI Order CHIMAERAE Family CHIMAERIDAE Chimaera monstrosa . „ africana . Family CALLORHYNCHIDAE Callorhynchus capensis Family RHINOCHIMAERIDAE Harriotta raleighana . 435 436 No. 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 118 119 120 121 122 123 DISTRIBUTION CHART CLASS OSTEICHTHYES SUB-CLASS CHOANICHTHYES Order CROSSOPTERYGII Sub-order COELACANTHINI H Z Z X H 0 b h < z 01 4 0 0 z I z < < u 0 0 7 T yz < < h -1 Ul (0 0 0 a 3 < < 4 4 t < ..1 a 0. >• 0 (C J n bt n u 0 0 0 < z .J 3 u llJ < 0 < 0 5 0. z 0 < bi tf) 0 a m 5 0 0. 0 Zone. T~ Family LATIMERIIDAE Latimeria chalumnae ... SUB-CLASS NEOPTERYGII Order ISOSPONDYLI Family ALBULIDAE Albula vulpes . Family ELOPIDAE Elops saurus . Megalops cyprinoides . Family GONORHYNCHIDAE Gonorhynchus gonorhynchus Family CHIROCENTRIDAE Chirocentrus nudus . ,, dorab . Family CHANIDAE Chanos chanos . Family STOLEPHORIDAE Etrumeus micropus . Stolephorus delicatulus . Gilchristella aestuarius . Family CLUPEIDAE Macrura kelee . Pellonulops madagascariensis Harengula ovalis . „ vittata . Sardinella melanura . „ jussieu . Arengus sagax . Pellona ditchela . Family DOROSOMIDAE Nematalosa nasus . Family ENGRAULIDAE Anchoviella indica . „ commersonii „ holodon . Thrissocles malabaricus „ setirostris . Engraulis japonicus . m p* r* No. 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 137 I 138 I I oy I 140 I 141 142 i 143 : 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 i 155 1 156 i 157 I distribution chart CLASS OSTEICHTHYES >• < z o ID % h z z 2 z 1- o 0 H 1 < u j UJ 0. 1- u 0 0 < < 0 Bl. z u 2 < < - a u u S U D z o h U U < L 0 Zone. Family ALEPOCEPHALIDAE Alepocephalus australis . „ barnardi . Xenodermichthys socialis . Family ARGENTINIDAE Argentina sphyraena . Family MICROSTOMIDAE Rhynchohyalus natalensis . Bathymaerops macrolepis . Bathylagus antarcticus . Family STOMIATIDAE Stomias boa . Haplostomias tentaculatus Melanostomias niger ... Eustomias filifcrum Echiostbma barbatum ... Opostomias gibson-pacei Family MALACOSTEIDAE Malacosteus indicus . Family STYLOPHTHALMIDAE i - -h-- i ! Slylophthalmus paradoxus . Family ASTRONESTHIDAE Asironesthes richardsoni . „ capensis . „ boulengeri . Family IDIACANTHIDAE Idiacanthus niger ... . „ fasciola . „ atlanticus . Family CHAULIODONTIDAE Chauliodus sloani . Family GONOSTOMATIDAE Cyclothone signata . acclinidens . „ livida . „ microdon . obscura . Gonostoma bathyphilum . Yarrella corythaeola . Photichthys argenteus . Family MAUROLICIDAE Diplophos taenia . Maurolicus muelleri . Vincinguerria sanzoi . „ lucetia . A A A A A A A A A A B B B B B B 437 <<< <<<<<< < < <<< 438 CLASS OSTEICHTHYES 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 Family STERNOPTYCHIDAE Sternoptyx diaphana ... Polyipnus spinosus Argyropelecus hemigymnus „ olfersi ... „ affinis ... Order NEMATOGNATHI Family PLOTOSIDAE Plotosus anguillaris . Family TACHYSURIDAE Tachysurus dussumieri . feliceps . Order HETEROMI Family NOTACANTHIDAE Notacanthus sexspinis . „ moseleyi . Macdonaldia rostrata . Order LYOPOMI DISTRIBUTION CHART z i p z 3 Z < III £ > j 0 t J 0 lU a. < z U) >- HI < 0 o Q z 0 J z I 0 n z < OQ a: 0 3 J 0 0 3 < h u < 0 0 < z J H D h Ul U < 0 a. z u < u Q • < 00 < z 0 0 CD z I z < < 0 h J 111 (0 0 0 0 0. >- o (C 0 0 < 7 J D 0. Z o < bi 0> 0 CO < Z Z r Z E 5 uj o at at 5 u < u ... D S 0 a O 2one. B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B Cetomimus picklei . Order EXOCOETOIDEA Family EXOCOETIDAE Exocoetus volitans . Cypsilurus furcatus . „ bahiensis ... . „ nigripcnnis ... . „ hewitti ... . Parexocoetus brachypterus . Family HEMIRHAMPHIDAE Euleptorhamphus longirostris Hyporhamphus improvisus . „ knysnaensis . dussumieri . „ delagoae . „ balinensis . Hemirhamphus far . „ marginatus . 439 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 DISTRIBUTION CHART CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Order SCOMBERESOCOIDEA Family SCOMBERESOCIDAE Scomberesox saurus . Family PETALICHTHYIDAE Petalichthys capensis . Family TYLOSURIDAE Ablennes hians . Tylosurus senegalensis . „ leiurus . „ crocodilus . „ melanotus . Order ANACANTHINI Family CORYPHAENOIDIDAE Coelorhynchus flabellispinus . „ parallelus . „ acanthiger . „ dentieulatus . „ argentatus . „ fasciatus . Coryphaenoides striatura . „ carinatus . Malacocephalus laevis ' . Macruroplus leonis . „ nasutus . „ pumiliceps . „ nigromaculatus „ brevibarbatus . Venlrifossa divergens . Lyeonodes argenteus . Bathygadus fumosus . „ capensis . „ melanobranchus . Family GADIDAE Tripterophycis gilchristi . Bregmaceros macclellandi . Gaidropsarus capensis . .Antimora australis . Laemonema globiceps . Haloporphyrus capensis . „ natalensis . Merluccius capensis . Lacmonemodes comprcssicauda Physiculus natalensis . „ capensis . Melanonus gracilis . Order ALLOTRIOGNATHI Family LAMPRIDAE Lampris regius . Family TRACHIPTERIDAE Regalecus glesne . Trachipterus iris . „ arcticus . z >• < m S I H 0 z ? 0 h < z >■ < 0 < z 0 □ z (n z I z < < U < 0 0 z z yz < ut > -1 U a. (n >• 0 0 0 J 0 n CO z D J 3 < K < < 5 t < U W u < 0 0 < z J D UJ UJ < y 0 Q. Z u < ui V) Q (A Q ID 5 0 (L 0 1 1 i i 1 1 — 1— i ' 1 1 ! j 1 i 1 1 i i 1 1 ; h - 1 h- Zone. P L P P P P P D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D A A A B A A A A A D A A A A P P P P No. 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 296 297 298 CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Family LOPHOTIDAE Lophotes cepedianus . „ fiskii . Order ZEOFDEI Family ZEIDAE Cyttoidops mccullochi . 2fenopsis conchifer . Zeus faber . „ japonicus . Zenion hololepis . „ leptolepis . Zen scutatus . Cyttosoma boops . „ maculatus . Allocyttus verrucosus . Neocyttus rhomboidalis . Family GRAMMICOLEPIDAE Xenolepidichthys dalgleishi . Order XENOBERYCES Family MELAMPHAIDAE Melamphaes mizolepis . „ unicornis . „ megalops . Order BERYCOIDEI Family POLYMIXIIDAE Polymixia nobilis . Family MONOCENTRIDAE Monocentris japonicus . Family DIRETMIDAE Dirctmus argenteus . Family BERYCIDAE DISTRIBUTION CHART u t < J U h u < 0 I H z $ 0 < >■ < CQ z 0 tf) z z < 0 7 < I < U H -» UJ (0 0 0 IS D K CL >■ 0 n a 0 0 < z J 0. z 0 < bi (A Q < < t < = 0 Q. O Zone. --f 4"- 1 T r - i-' -I- r : I i - ' p ! - P - D D ■ - D D ‘ D ! D I ^ — I D i D - : D - i D - - B A A A D I i Beryx splendens . Aclinoberyx longipinnis . Family TRACHICHTHYIDAE Hoploslethus medilerraneus . „ gilchrisli . „ allanticus . Gephyroberyx darwini . „ orbicularis . Trachichthodes spinosus . I I 4 ' J- I D D D D D D D D Family HOLOCENTRIDAE Holocentrus sammara „ rubrum . „ diadema . „ lacteoguttatus Myripristis murdjan . 441 442 DISTRIBUTION CHART z S CLASS OSTEICHTHYES H Z z h 0 O H < z < Q z I < h -i Ul (0 0 3 lU K J 0. >- 0 h u 0 0 < z J < 0 0. Z u < hi (A < u a 3 Order HETEROSOMATA 299 300 301 302 303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 321 322 323 324 325 326 327 328 329 330 331 332 333 334 335 336 337 338 339 340 341 342 343 Family PSETTODIDAE Psettodes erumei . I Family PLEU RON ECTI DAE i j Marleyella bicolorata . I Poeciiopsetta natalensis . 1 Paralichthodes algoensis . Samaris cristatus . Family BOTHIDAE Pseudorhombus arsius . Citharoides macrolepis . Chascanopsetta lugubris Laeops pectoralis ... . ,, kitharae . , ,, nigromaculatus . Arnoglossus dalgleishi . ,, capensis . „ microphthalmus . Engyprosopon valde-rostratus „ grandisquama . natalensis . Bothus myriastcr . „ pantherinus . „ mancus . Family SOLEIDAE Coryphaesopia cornuia . Zcbrias regani . Heteromycteris capensis . I Pardachirus marmoratus . I Synaplura kleini . „ marginata . Ausiroglossus pectoralis . ,, microlepis Pegusa lascaris . Solea bleekeri . „ fulvomarginaia . Monochirus quadriocellatus . Dicologlossa cuneata . j I Family CYNOGLOSSIDAE i ! Symphurus variegatus . i „ strictus . i „ ocellatus . I Parapiagusia bilineata . Cynoglossoides ecaudatus . „ gilchristi . „ durbanensis . ; Cynoglossus lingua . \ „ lida . ! Arelia bilineata . Trulla capensis . j Areliscus marleyi . DISTRIBUTION CHART CLASS OSTEICHTHYES z h o a. J ^ < u a ^ z z K < < - 5 “ U ° U m £ o 344 345 346 347 348 349 350 351 352 353 354 355 356 357 358 359 360 361 362 363 364 365 366 367 368 369 370 371 j 372 i 373 374 Order LOPHOBRANCHII Family SYNGNATHIDAE Hippocampus hystrix... „ capensis „ novaehollandae „ kuda . „ Camelopardalis Syngnathus phlegon . acus cyanospilus spicifer . pelagicus . fasciatus . temmincki Yozia bicoarctata . Syngnathoides biaculeatus Microphis brachyurus . Belonichthys fluviatilis Order AULOSTOMI Family AULOSTOMIDAE Aulostomus valentini . Family FISTULARIIDAE Fistularia petimba . „ villosa . Family MACRORHAMPHOSIDAE Macrorhamphosus gracilis „ scolopax Centriscops obliquus ... Notopogon macrosolen „ fernandezianus „ lilliei Family CENTRISCIDAE Aeoliscus punctulatus . Family SOLENOSTOMATIDAE Solenostomus cyanopterus . Order HYPOSTOMIDES Family PEGASIDAE Pegasus draconis . „ natans . Order TRACHINOIDEA Family AMMODYTIDAE Ammodytes capensis . Family TRICHONOTIDAE Taeniolabrus marleyi . H — I - ►- -4 1 — ^ — r - ! L D D D D D D ■ — ' L PACIFIC 444 DISTRIBUTION CHART No, CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Family CREEDIIDAE 375 Apodocreedia vanderhorsti Order PERCOMORPHI 376 377 378 379 380 381 382 383 384 1 385 386 387 I 388 : 389 : 390 i 391 ! 392 : 393 ! 394 I 395 I 396 i 397 I 398 i 399 i Family CHAMPSODONTIDAE Champsodon capensis . Family CHIASMODONTIDAE Chiasmodon niger . Family URANOSCOPIDAE Uranoscopus archionema . Family PLEUROSCOPIDAE Pleuroscopus pseudodorsalis . Family PARAPERCIDAE Parapercis hexophthalma . ,, nebulosa . „ pulchella . „ robinsoni . Family MALACANTHIDAE Malacanthus latovittatus . Family OPISTHOGNATHIDAE Opisthognathus muscatensis . ,, nigromarginatus „ macrostomus Family CALLIONYMIDAE Synchiropus monacanthus . Callionymus marmoralus . „ marleyi . Calliuriehthys gardineri . Paracallionymus costalus . Family CIRRHITIDAE Cirrhitichthys aprinus . Cirrhitus pinnulatus . Paracirrhites forsteri . „ arcatus . Family CHILODACTYLIDAE Chilodactylus fasciatus . Palunolepis brachydactylus . „ grandis . Family THERAPONIDAE 400 401 402 Therapon theraps „ jarbua Relates quadrilineatus ... p z z ffi I h 0 > 0 h < z o < 0 0 2 in z I z < < U < 0 0 z z < < > h J bJ U) 0 0 0 ffi 3 < < < < J u tI Dl >■ 0 J a: J J ft 5 w H u < 0 0 < z J D H hi u 5 u < 0 0. z U < hi in Q (0 0 111 ? 0 L L L L D L L D L L L L PACIFIC DISTRIBUTION CHART No. CLASS OSTEICHTHYES 403 404 405 406 407 408 409 410 411 412 413 Family PRIACANTHIDAE Priacanthus cruentatus . „ boops . „ arenatus . „ hamrur . Family PARASCORPIDIDAE Parascorpis typus . Family PSEUDOCHROMIDAE Pseudochromis natalensis . Family ACANTHOCLINIDAE Acanthoplesiops indicus . Family PLESIOPIDAE Plesiop.s nigricans . „ melas ... . Family DULEIDAE Dules taeniurus „ rupestris ... 414 415 416 Family LOBOTIDAE Lobotcs surinamensis . Family BRANCHIOSTEGIDAE Branchiostegus japonicus . ,, doliatus . Family PLECTROPOMIDAE 417 j Plectropomus maealatus Family SERRANIDAE 418 ! 419 I 420 ! 421 ' 422 423 I 424 I 425 I 426 ■ 427 428 429 i 430 431 i 432 433 434 435 436 437 438 Grammistes sexiinealus Aulacocephalus temmincki Cephalopholis rogaa ... „ sonnerati „ aurantius ,, miniatus „ hemistictus „ argus ... Variola louti . Serranus knysnaensis ... ,, novemcinctus. . cabrilla „ scriba . Acanlhistius sebastoides Epinephelus spiniger ... „ llavocaeruleus „ grammatophorus „ guaza „ fasciatus ... „ andersoni „ morrhua . . . X I- o S J ! < K U m z z < < |S 5 0 U (j ui < 0 0. 0 Zone. P P 445 a. cQ No. 439 440 441 442 443 444 445 446 447 448 449 450 451 452 453 454 455 456 457 458 459 460 461 462 463 464 465 466 467 468 469 470 471 472 473 474 475 476 477 478 479 480 481 482 483 484 CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Epinephelus merra . megachir „ modestus . „ albomarginatus ... „ diacanthus „ fario . „ chlorostigtua „ areolatus „ tauvina . „ adscenscionis „ summana „ caeruleopunctatus ,, fuscoguttatus Promicrops lanceolatus Polyprion americanus . Dinoperca petersii . Family ANTHllDAE Planctanthias praeopercularis Holanthias natalensis . Anthias huchtii . „ manadensis . squamipinnis . Callanthias legras . Family OPLEGNATHIDAE Oplegnathus conwayi . „ robinsoni . „ peaolopesi . Family OWSTONllDAE Parasphenanthias weberi . Family CEPOLIDAE Acanthocepola cuneala . „ limbata Family SILLAGINIDAE Sillago sihama . „ macula ta . „ chondropus . Family APOGONIDAE Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus ,, lineatus . „ caninus Synagrops japonicus . Epigonus telescopus . Apogon orbicularis . „ nigripes . „ warreni . „ sangiensis . „ hyalosoma . „ monochrous . „ fleurieu . „ bandancnsis ... „ taeniatus . „ frenatus . DISTRIBUTION CHART H z Z h 0 0 H < z m < 0 z z I z < U 0 0 z z < < > h J hi 0) 0 Q 0 (D 3 < < < < t < J u 0. >■ 0 J n J J It n ^ 0 u H u < 0 0 < z J w 3 U 111 iii < 0 < 0 $ a. z O < ui Q (A Q m ? 0 L 0 Zone . L L L I I I I I L L I I I I D I L I I I L D L L L D L L L L L L D A L L L L L L L L L L Q Q No. 485 486 487 488 489 490 491 492 493 494 495 495a 496 497 498 499 500 501 502 503 504 505 506 507 508 509 510 511 512 513 514 515 516 517 518 519 520 521 522 523 524 525 526 527 528 529 530 531 532 533 534 535 CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Apogon quadrifasciatus „ fuscus . „ novetnfasciatus „ multitaeniatus... Archamia macroptera „ lineolata Papillapogon auritus ... Apogoniehthys queketti „ zulucnsis Apogonichthyoides uninotatus Hynnodus robustus „ atherinoides Family SCOMBROPIDAE Scombrops dubius Neoscombrops annectens Howella sherborni . Family ACROPOMIDAE Acropoma japonicum . Family APOLECTJDAE Apolectus niger . Family CARANGIDAE Trachurus trachurus ... Selar kalla . „ crumenophthalmus Branchialcpes tabulae ... Atropus atropus Caranx speciosus . „ adsccnsionis „ djedaba „ microbrachium „ mate . „ sexfasciatus . „ stellatus . „ melampygus ... „ compressus „ equula . „ chrysophrys . „ malabaricus . „ armatus . „ dinema . „ ignobilis „ gymnostethoides „ fulvoguttatus ... „ ferdau . .> hippos . „ oblongus . Vomer gibbiceps . Alectis ciliaris . „ indicus . Decapterus sanctaehelenae „ russellii „ punctatus ... „ lajang . „ muroadsi ... Megalaspis cordyla . Naucrates ductor . DISTRIBUTION CHART o p z z >- < D z h 0 z 5 0 h < z >• < a < z 0 0 W z z z < < u < 0 15 Z Z 1 < > h J Id tn 0 0 m 3 < < < < Mi 0. > o (C 1 () Ui o 0 0 < z j 3 Id Id 5 0 < 0 < 0 5 0. z U < Id V) a U) Q IS z 0 (L 0 I 447 Q Q O No. 536 537 538 539 540 541 542 543 544 545 546 547 548 549 550 551 552 553 554 555 556 557 558 559 560 561 562 563 554 565 566 567 568 569 570 571 572 573 574 575 576 577 578 CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Zonichthys nigrofasciata . Seriola lalandl ... . „ bonariensis . Hypacanthus amia . Trachinotus russellii . „ bailloni . „ blochii . Elagatis bipinnulatus . Chorinemus tol . „ sanctipetri . „ lysan . Family POMATOMIDAE Pomalomus saltator . Family RACHYCENTRIDAE Rachycentron canadus . Family SCIAENIDAE Johnius belengerii . „ sina . „ soldado . hololepidotus . Otolithes ruber . Atractoscion aequidens . Sciaena dussumieri . „ capensis . „ robinsoni . „ sinuata . „ macroptera . Family MULLIDAE Upeneus tragula . „ vittatus . „ bensasi . „ sulphurous . Pseudupeneus fraterculus . „ macronema . „ barberinus . „ indicus . „ pleurostigma . ,. pleurospilos . „ cyclostomus . „ pleurotacnia . Mulloidichthys aurifiamma . „ samoensis . Family EMMELICHTHYIDAE Emmelichthys nitidus . Plagiogeneion rubiginosus . Family DREPANIDAE Drepane punctata . Family PLATACIDAE Platax pinnatus . Tripterodon orbis . DISTRIBUTION CHART X h- o Z o h Ul a. < u >• < < “ z < U) 0 >- 0 Z J ^ < z 0 Q z 0 J bj (A Z X 0 •n K (I) z < ffl q: D O < u D J < 0 o 3 u o < E id (Q z z < < 5 0 t < o U < y 0. 0 Zone. or r O O DISTRIBUTION CHART No CLASS OSTEICHTHYES X h- o ic J Si 3 i z z < < 09 So u (J LI a. 0 Zone . 579 580 581 582 583 584 585 586 587 588 589 590 591 592 593 594 595 596 597 598 599 600 601 602 603 604 605 606 607 608 609 610 611 612 613 614 615 616 617 618 619 620 621 622 Family CAPROIDAE Antigonia rubescens . Family MONODACTYLIDAE Monodactylus falciformis . „ argenteus . Family SCATOPHAGIDAE Scalophagus tetracanthus . Family POMACANTHIDAE Pomacanthus striatus ... ,, semicirculatus „ imperator Holacanthus trimaculatus Centropyge bispinosus „ fisheri Family CHAETODONTIDAE Forcipiger longirostris ... Heniochus acuminatus Chaetodon marlcyi auriga trifasciatus unimaculatui miliaris mclanotas ... falcula lunula vagabundus kleinii lincolatus ... guttatissimus chrysurus ... guntheri xanthocephalus blackburnii Family ACANTHURIDAE Paracanthurus theuthis Acanthurus triostcgus lincolatus ... lincatus fuliginosus nigricans ... bariene Clenochaetus strigosus. .. Naso brevirostris „ unicornis ... „ lituratus . Family ZANCLIDAE Zanclus cornutus . „ canescens . Family HISTIOPTF.RIDAE Histiopterus spinifer . Quinquarias capensis ... Pseudopentaceros richardsoni 1 - 1 - h 1 — r D L D L L L L L L L L L L L L L L E Q a. 450 DISTRIBUTION CHART No. CLASS OSTEICHTHYES 623 Family MENIDAE Mene maculala . 624 Family LEIOGNATHIDAE Secutor ruconius . . 625 „ insidiator . 626 Leiognathus equula . 627 Gazza minuta . 628 Family GERRIDAE Gcrres punctatus . 629 „ oyena . 630 poeti . 631 „ acinaces . 632 „ rappi . 633 ,, oblongus . 634 Family AMBASSIDAE Ambassis safgha . 635 „ commersoni . 636 ,, urotaenia . 637 „ gymnocephalus . 638 Family KYPHOSIDAE Kyphosus dnerascens . 639 „ bigibbus . 640 Family PEMPHERIDAE Parapriacanthus guentheri . 641 Pempheris schwenki . 642 „ oualensis . 643 „ moluca . 644 Family CORACINIDAE Coracinus capcnsis ... . 645 „ multifasciatus . 646 Family SCORPIDIDAE Neoscorpis lithophilus . 647 Family PENTAPODIDAE Pentapodus dux . 648 Gnathodentex aurolineatus . 649 Gymnocranius griscus . 650 Monotaxis grandoculis . 651 Family LUTIANIDAE Etclis carbunculiis . 652 Aprion virescens . . 653 Pristipomoides filamentosus . 654 Tropidinius zonatus . X H z 0 < >- < ID z 0 to z z 0 z < < H -1 bJ w 0 0 03 O; J 0. >- 0 a O 0 < z J 3 a. z u < iii to 0 < 0 o 3 tii 0 z z < < 5ti 5o o u (L 0 ZONt. L r- a DISTRIBUTION CHART CLASS OSTEICHTHYES 655 Aetiasis cantharoides . i 656 Apsilus fuscus . 657 Lutianus kasmira . 658 ,, duodecimlineatus . 659 „ fulviflamma . 660 ,, russellii . 661 „ johni . ' 662 „ gibbus...' . 663 sanguineus . 664 „ argenlimaculatus . 665 „ sebae . 666 „ rivulatus . 1 667 ,, bohar . 1 668 ,» janthinuroplerus . 669 „ vaigiensis . i 670 rangus . 671 „ lineolatus . Family NEMIPTERIDAE 672 Nemipterus delagoae . 673 „ smithii . Family POMADASYIDAE 674 Pomadasys guoraka . 675 „ olivaceum . 676 „ hasta . 677 ,, maculatus . 678 „ multimaculatum . 679 „ opcrcularc ... . 680 Rhonciscus striatus . 681 », stridcns . 682 „ anas . ■ Family SCOLOPSIDAE ■ 683 Scolopsis vosmeri . 684 „ bimaculalus . 685 „ ghanam . 686 Parascolopsis eriomma . Family CAESIODIDAE 687 Cacsio caerulaureus . Family PLECTORHYNCHIDAE 1 688 Spilotichthys pictus . 689 Pluchus chubbi . 1 690 Pseudopristipoma nigrus . 1 691 „ plagiodesmus . 692 Galerin scholaf . 1 693 „ reticulatus . i 694 „ gaierinus . i 695 „ lineatus... . 696 „ diagrammus . 697 „ factela . Family LETHRINIDAE 698 Lcthrinus miniatus 699 „ genivittatus . i i 700 ,, borbonicus . ; 701 ,, harak . .. j 702 „ nebulosas . I 703 variegatus . | i 1 1 >- z >• u ffl z h ? 0 < < ffi 0 (A z z < z 0 z < I < u < h -J u 0 0 OQ J h < u 0 < 5 0 0 0. z 0. < u >• z w J < J ui 1 h V) 01 D Q -1 h- 0. z Family CENTRACANTIDAE ! 1 704 Ptcrosmaris axillaris . 705 Ccntracantus australis . 1 Family SPARIDAE 706 Acanthopagrus bifascialus . 1 707 „ berda . ; 708 Rhabdosargus globiccps . 1 709 „ tricuspidens . 710 „ sarba . 711 Sparodon durbanensis ... 1 712 Puntazzo pun^az^o _ . _ ■ 713 Diplodus sargus . 714 „ trifasciatus . 715 Argyrops spinifer . ' 716 filamentosus . 1 1 717 Porcostoma dentata . 718 Pterogymnus laniarius . 719 CytnatcK'cps nasiuus . 720 Chrysoblephus cristiceps . ' 721 .. laiiceps . i 722 „ puniceus . 723 „ lophus . 724 anglicus . 725 „ gibbiccps . Sub-Family PAGELLINAE 726 Lithognalhus lilhognathus . 727 mormyrus . 728 Pagellus natalensis . 729 Boopsoidea inornata ... Sub-Family BOOPSINAE 730 Gymnocrotaphus curvidens . 731 Sarpa salpa . ■ - t 732 Crenidens crenidens . 733 Polyamblyodon gibbosum . 734 „ cristiceps . 735 ,, germanum . 736 Pachymetopon blochii . 737 ,, aeneum . 738 ,, grande . 739 Spondyliosoma emarginatum . Family DENTICIDAE 740 Cheimerius nufar . 741 Petrus rupestris . 742 Polysteganus undulosus . 743 „ praeorbitalis . i 744 „ coeruleopunctatus . ' 745 Argyrozona argyrozona . ; i Order CHROMIDES ! i 1 1 Family AMPHIPRIONIDAE j i 746 Chromis xanihurus 747 Amphiprion polymnus . 748 bicinctus . 749 Dascyllus aruanus . 750 „ carneus . 751 ,, trimaculaius . 752 „ axillaris . 753 „ marginatus . $ o < < 0 z 0 V) z z 7 < z < 111 tf) 0 0 D 0. >- 0 It < z J D u < 111 tn a z z y z < h J u (/> 0 0 IS < < < J u J K J b > [•> (C 1 5 ^ u u h CJ < < z u ui 9 u < < 0 s L Z o < ui “ ■»- < ? « ^ JQ O < Q € z < z 5 « 0 o 2 5 u J ? ^ < bi ii tn Q 2 < < t < E 111 o u ° U < u ffl £ O IL O Zone. r : P I P p p p ■! D -I A -* P -<-f 1— T E L L L L L L L L L L L L E L L L L 455 No. 895 896 897 898 899 900 901 902 903 904 905 906 907 908 909 910 911 912 913 914 915 915 z i 0 < < ffl 0 (A z z 0 7 < z < h J laJ U) 0 0 ID tc -J 0. >• o a 0 0 < z J D DL Z O < Sli U) Q t < 0 0 3 u o < K u OD z z < < 5 0 U U Ul < y 0. O Zone, L L L L L L L I 945 946 947 948 949 950 951 952 953 954 955 956 957 958 959 960 961 962 963 964 965 966 967 968 969 970 971 972 973 974 975 976 Phtheirichihys lineatus Remora albescens . ,, remora . ,, brachyptcra ... Echeneis naucrates . Order BI.ENMOIDEA Family BLENNIIDAE Blennius crislatus . „ fasciguia . ,, cornutus . „ occllalus . Chalaroderma capito . Omobranchus striatus . „ kaltosoma „ japonicus „ elongatus Petroscirtes mitralus . Dasson variabilis . Aspidontus filamentosus ,, rhinorhynchos ,, tapeinosoma Xiphasia setifer . Family SALARIIDAE Cirripectus kosiensis . gibbifrons . Antennablennius bifilum „ hypenetes Salarias fuscus ... Alticops pcriophlhalmus ,, cdentulus . », oryx . Halmablennius unicolor ,, meleagris „ dussumieri „ oortii . Family CLIMDAE 977 978 979 980 981 982 983 984 985 Cirrhibarbis capensis ... Climacoporus navalis ... Muracnoclinus dorsalis Blennophis anguillaris ... „ strialus Blenniomimus taurus ... ,, cottoides Peiraites woodi . „ brevicristatus 458 DISTRIBUTION CHART No. CLASS OSTEICHTHYES h Z Z Z h 0 0 H < z m < o Q z z z z < < U 0 0 z z 3 < u > j u 0. >• 0 0 0 J 0 n m (C 3 J 3 < a < < 5 H h u < 0 0 < z J h D H lU u < 0 $ 0. z o < bi (0 Q (0 0 a 5 0 986 987 988 989 990 991 992 993 994 995 996 997 998 999 1000 1001 1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 1008 1009 1010 1011 1012 1013 1014 1015 1016 1017 1018 1019 1020 1021 1022 Clinus supcrciliosus „ robustus Ophthalmolophus agilis „ anne „ venustris „ acuminatus „ helenae „ latipinnis Blennioclinus Stella „ brachycephalus Myxodes fucorum Fucomimus mus Labroclinus mentalis ... „ laurentii ... Pavoclinus pavo „ heterodon ... Gynutoclinus rotundifrons Clinoporus biporosus ... Xenopoclinus kochi Family TRIPTERYGIONTIDAE Gillias capensis . Enneapterygius pusillus „ obtusirostre ... Family CARAPIDAE Carapus punctatus . „ neglectus . Jordanicus gracilis . Family BROTULIDAE Dermatopsoides kasougae Bidenichthys capensis . Barathronus bicolor . Brotula multibarbata . Dicrolene introniger . Grammonoides opisthodon ... Hoplobrotula gnathopus Selachophidium guentheri Neobythites macrops . Cataetyx messieri . Diplacanthopoma nigripinnis ... Porogadus miles . Family OPHIDIIDAE 1023 Genypterus capensis . 1024 Otophidium smith! . Family ZOARCIDAE 1025 1026 1027 Melanostigma gelatinosum Lyodes frigidus . Lycodonus vermiformis Family HALIDESMIDAE 1028 Halidesmus scapularis ... L L E L L 1. L 1. L L L L L L L L L L L 1, I, 1. 1. L D P L A L A D D A B A A A D L A A A L PACIFIC DISTRIBUTION CHART No. CLASS OSIEICHTHYES Order CA TAI’flRACTI Family TETRAROGIDAE 1029 1030 1031 1032 1033 Coccotropus monacanthus Ptarmus jubatus Coccotropsis gymnoderma Amblyapistus binotata „ taenionotus Family SCORPAENIDAE 1034 1035 1036 1037 1038 1039 1040 1041 1042 1043 1044 1045 1046 1047 1048 1049 1050 1051 1052 1053 1054 1055 1056 1057 1058 1059 1060 Helicolenus maculatus . Kantapus oglinus . Setarches longiceps . Scorpaena mossambica „ haplodactylus ,, kowiensis . natalensis . Scorpaenopsis rosea „ gibbosa ,, cirrhosa . Sebastosemus capensis Sebastichthys capensis . Pterois macrurus . „ volitans . ,, russellii . Dendrochirus zebra . „ brachypterus ... Apistus carinatus . Family SYNANCIIDAE Synanceja verrucosa . Caracanthus zeylonicus . Minous trachycephalus . Choridactylodes natalensis . Family COTTCNCULIDAE Cottunculoides spinosus . „ macrocephalus „ inermis . Family CONGIOPODIDAE Congiopodus spinifer . „ tors us . i I I- o c J si I z o H lu 0. < O z < a tt 3 O < o < 0 o 3 u Q < K U a z z < < ? 0 h Q U < y 0. 0 Zone. D D L L L L L L i — I - !- ■ i I I i -4— i- L L L D A A A Family HOPLICHTHYIDAE 1061 Hoplichthys acanthopleurus . Family BEMBRIDAE 1062 Parabembras robinsoni... . Family PLATYCEPH ALIDAE 1063 1064 1065 1066 1067 1068 1069 Platycephalus indicus . . „ crocodilus „ grandidieri „ tentaculatus „ pristis ... „ tubereulatus „ scaber ... ! i i D D L L L L L L L 459 D O No, 1070 1071 1072 1073 1074 1075 1076 1077 1078 1079 1080 1081 1082 1083 1084 1085 1086 1087 1088 1089 1090 1091 1092 1093 1094 1095 1096 1097 1098 1099 1100 CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Family LI PARI DAE Careproctus albescens . Psednos micrurus . Paraliparis australis . ,, copei . Family PERISTEDIIDAE Peristedion adeni . ,, weberi . Family CEPHALACANTHIDAE Dactyloptena orientalis . Family TRIGLIDAE Lepidotrigla faurei . ,, natalensis . ,, multispinosus . Trigla lyra . „ hirundo . ,, kumu . ,, capensis . ,, queketti . Trigloporus africanus . Order XENOPTERI Family GOBIESOCIDAE Chorisochismus dentcx Eckloniaichihys scylliorhiniceps Lepadichthys coccinotaenia . Order APODES Family SYNAPOBRANCHIDAE Synapobranchus pinnatus . Histiobranchus bathybius . Family ILYOPHIDAE I lyophis capensis . „ brunneus . Family SIMENCHELYIDAE Simenchelys parasiticus . Family MURAENIDAE Muraena mossambica . Family OPHICHTHIDAE Caecula kirkii . „ natalensis . „ brevirostris . „ orientalis . Cirrhimuraena playfairii . Pisodonophis boro . DISTRIBUTION CHART p z Z 2 I h 0 0 h < z ID < o 0 z z z z < < u 0 0 z z < J < Ul > u a IS) y 0 0 0 J 0 “> m K D J 3 < a < < 5 H t < K> U H u < 0 0 < z J 3 h Ul ui < y < 0 a. z u < ui (A O (A Q 0 5 0 L 0 ZONF. No. 1 101 1102 1103 I KM 1105 1 106 1107 1 108 1 109 1110 111! 1112 1113 1114 1115 1116 1117 1118 1119 1120 1121 1122 1123 1124 1125 1126 1127 1128 1129 1130 1131 1132 1133 1134 1135 1136 DISTRIBUTION CHART CLASS OSTEICHTHYFS Ophichthus triserialis ... . ,, unicolor . „ apicalis . marginatus . Mystriophis rostellatus . Ophisurus serpens . Family NEMICHTHYIDAE Nemichthys scolopacea . Avocettina infans . Serrivomer beanii Family CONGRIDAE Conger conger . ,, cincreus . Ariosoma anago . ,, balearica . Urocongcr vicinus . „ Icpturus . Family DYSSOMIDAE Dyssoma anguillaris ... . Family MURAENESOCTDAE Muraeneso.x cincreus . Family NETTA.STOMIDAE Venefica proboscidea . Nettastoma parviceps . Family ECHIDNIDAE Echidna zebra . . „ polyozona ... . „ nebulosa ... . Thyrsoidea macrura ... . Lycodontis punctalus ... . „ nudivomer . „ stelliferus ... . „ favagineus ... . „ flavomarginatus . undulalus . „ meleagris ... Sidcrca picta . Uroplerygius tigrinus . „ concolor . „ marmoralus . Family MURAENICHTHYIDAE Muraeniclithys gymnolus . Order BAI.ISTOIDF.A Family TRI ACANTHODIDAE Triacanthodes elhiops . u < o I I J W h o < 0 z I- 0 E J 2i z $ o h Ul a < u < 0 0 3 u Q < E iti D z z < < 5 ^ Q o ? 0 (j 111 < y a. 0 ZONl . 1 ; L ; L ' L E L : L L . L L L L L L L L L 461 462 DISTRIBUTION CHART CLASS OSTEICHTHYES Family MONACANTHIDAE 1137 Pervagor melanocephalus . 1138 Laputa umgazi . 1139 Paramonacanthus barnardi . 1140 Stephanolepis auratus . 1141 ,, rectifrons . 1142 „ freycineti . 1143 Hanomanctus bovinus . 1144 Amanses sandwichiensis . 1145 „ fronticinctus . 1146 Thamnaconus arenaceus . 1147 modestoidcs . 1148 Acanthaluteres peroni . 1149 Navodon modestus . Family ALUTERiDAE 1152 Alutera monoceros . 1153 Osbeckia scripta . 1154 Pseudalutarius nasicornis . Family BALISTIDAE 1155 Odonus niger . 1156 Abalistcs stellaris . 1157 Balistes vetula . 1158 Melichlhys vidua . 1159 „ ringens . 1160 Balistoides viridescens . 1161 „ conspiciilum . 1162 Sufflamcn capislratus ... . 1163 Hemibalistes bursa . 1164 „ chrysoptera . 1165 Xanthichthys ringens . 1166 Camhidermis maculatus . 1167 Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus . 1168 „ fuscus . 1169 Rhinecanthus aculeatus . 1170 „ rectangulus . 1171 Balistapus undulatus . Order OSTRACIONTOIDEA Family ARACANIDAE 1172 Strophiurichthys robustus . Family OSTR ACIONTIDAE 1173 Acanthostracion tricornis . 1174 Tetrosomus concatenatus . 1175 „ gibbosus . 1176 Ostracion lentiginosum . 1177 „ tuberculatus . 1178 Lactoria cornutus . 1179 „ diaphana . 1180 „ fornasini . z Z I h 0 0 h < z ID < 0 Q 2 z I z < < U «», 0 0 z z 3 < u > J fed Ul 0. (0 >- 0 0 0 j 0 “1 ID ce D J 3 < a < < Q t < 0 W H u < 0 0 < z _I D h UJ hi 7 y < U < 0 0. z u < ui U) Q V) Q a ± 0 0. 0 ZONI. 1 — h t ! t L L L L L L I, distribution chart CLASS OSTEICHTHYES u h J w u I h 0 < 0 i a. z 0 Order TETRAODONTOIDEA Family DIODONTIDAE 1181 Diodon maculifer 1182 „ hystrix . 1183 . „ holacanthus ... . 1184 Lophodiodon calori . 1185 Dicotylichthys punctulatus . 1186 Cyclichthys spinosus . 1 187 „ antennatus . 1188 „ echinatus . 1189 ,, orbicularis . Family LAGOCEPHALIDAE 1190 Sphaeroides cutaneus . 1191 „ pleurospilus . 1192 Lagocephalus inermis . 1193 „ lagocephalus . 1194 Gaslrophysus sceleratus . 1195 „ liinaris . 1196 spadiceus . 1197 Torquigener oblongus . 1198 Amblyrhynchotes honckenii . 1199 „ hypselogenion . 1200 ,, spinosissimus . Family TETRAODONTIDAE 1201 Chclonodon patoca ... . 1202 „ laticeps . 1203 Arothron immaculatus . 1204 „ nigropunctatus . 1205 „ stellatus . 1206 „ aerostaticus . 1207 „ hispidus . Family CANTHIGASTERIDAE 1208 Canthigaster valentini . 1209 ,, caudofasciatus . 1210 „ margaritatus . 1211 ,, amboinensis Family MOLIDAE 1212 Ranzania typus . _ _ _ . 1213 Mola mola ... ... . _ . _ 1214 ,, lanceolata . - K _ Order HAPLODOCI Family BATRACHOIDIDAE 1215 Gymnobatrachus apiatus . 1216 „ ophiocephalus . 1217 Batrichthys albofasciatus . 1218 Austrobatrachus foedus . 1219 Chatrabus melanurus . 1220 „ damaranus . 1221 Balhybatrachus albolineatus . >- < < “ z < Ui O > o Z J ^ < < 5 S f m z = 5 u u < a. 0 Zone. 1 ! 5 I 463 No. 1222 1223 1224 1225 1226 1227 1228 1229 1230 1231 1232 1233 1234 1235 1236 1237 1238 1239 1240 1241 1242 1243 DISTRIBUTION CHART CLASS OSTEICHI'HYES o i < J W < 0 z I- o K J Si < < t < r Ul u U 5 U < 0 5 0 D. 0 Zone. Order PEDICULATI Family LOPHIIDAE Lophiodcs mutllus . „ insidator . Lophiomus setigerus . Lophius piscatorius . Family OGCOCEPHALIDAE Halieutea fitzsimonsi . Malthopsis triangularis . Dibranchus stellulatus . Family CERATIIDAE Cryptopsaras couesii . Himantolophus groenlandicus Family ONEIRODIDAE Dolopichthys cornutus . Family MELANOCOETIDAE Melanocoetus rotundatus . Family CHAUNACIDAE Chaunax pictus . Family ANTENNARIIDAE Antennarius hispidus ... bigibbus ... commersonii biocellatus cocci neus ... pinniceps ... striatus oligospilos polyophthalmus Histrio histrio . h i i— 4- U ! _ i D D D D D D D 1 L L L L L L L L P > > MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES The main problem in identification is to find some feature to point the way. It is easy to recognise a ^ , or a Sole ’ or a “ Swordfish It is in the great body of ordinary fishes, particularly with the type, that the amateur encounters most difficulty. This key provides a short cut to the identification almost 1,000 species, and while it may at first sight appear rather formidable, manipulation is so simple that it be mastered in a short time by even a schoolboy. After studying the directions, a matter of half-an-hour at the most, you will become most easily familiar with its manipulation by trying it out on a few common fishes- IIO\V F() USK mis KKY The system here presented is numerical and based on the number of spines and soft rays in the dorsal and ^nal fins. The least variable feature in most fishes is the number of Anal Spines. That is the basic Index Number stands in a block, thus, | _ (, at the top of each page. Then come in order. Dorsal Spines, .Anal Rays last. Dorsal Rays. Before the key can be used read up about Dorsal and Anal Fins fp. 82). TRE.4T ■SI INFS WT I H (iRF.A I CAUTION, always. Count the spines and rays in the dorsal and anal fins and arrange the order (I) Anal Spines, (2) Dorsal Spines, (3) Anal .Soft Rays, (4) Dorsal Soft Rays. Suppose you find H); 10: 14, Look up the [5] section and follow along until you find 10: 10: 14. That indicates Pomadasys ^’P‘-’>'culare 679. Turn up that number in the main systematic section and you will find a description and figure Confirmation. A few difficulties may be encountered. 1. Do not miss a forwardly directed horizontal spine flush with the back in front of the dorsal fin. Carefully slide a knife blade (not the finger nail) edge forward up the back from the head pressing gently, when if present, ^he Spine cannot be missed, though not many fishes have one. In the key its presence is shown thus l-rlX — I. 2. I he last soft ray in most fishes is divided above the base and may look like 2, but counts only as 1 for use in the key. 3. When the dorsal is divided, there is usually a single spine at the beginning of the 2nd fin, not always easy to sec. When fins are divided this is shown by a • sign. Thus, under Dorsal Spines, I - IX-i-l indicates (I) a separate spine in front, (2) a fin of 9 spines, (3) a single spine at the origin of the main soft dorsal. The count I f IX • I is sought serially as 1 1 in the key. Under Dorsal (or Anal) Rays, 14 -6 indicates the main soft fin of 14 rays, followed by 6 usually detached finlets such as those in the Tunny (No. 831), and serially this is a total of 20 dorsal rays. 4. You must allow for variation in count not yet recorded, so that if from a fish you have 3: 9: 14; 15; and cannot immediately find it, vary the secondary counts and try (i) 8: 14: 15; (ii) 10; 14; 15; (hi) 9: 13; 15; (iv) 9: 15; 15; and so on. This takes only a few moments, and the illustrations alone will show if you are on the wrong track. If you are sure of your counts and fail to track the fish .M.AKF, E\'ERY EFFORT to get it to a Museum, for it may be new, and may even be named after you. (See “ Preservation and Despatch of I ishes ", p. 33.) NOTE.S 1. I ishes of characteristic shape easily recognisable are not included here. They are; Flying fishes (210-215), Needle-fishes and Gar-fishes (216 230), Hand fishes (263 267), Flat fishes. Pipe-fishes, Sea-horses, etc. (299-372), Swordfishes (873 876), Pearl fishes (1008 1010), Shark-suckers (945 949), Eels (1089-1135), Blaasops, Tobies, etc. (1172 1214), Angler-fishes (1222 1243), total about 220 species. 2. Species marked with an asterisk are mainly abyssal, small, and not likely to be encountered by any but the specialist hunting them. 3. When only one bracketed number is given after a family or genus it is the number of the first species listed in that family or genus, and implies that several species fall there, and that the keys given under those categories in the main systematic account should be used; e.g. under “3; 11; 10; 10" occurs “SPARIDAE (706)”. In that case start at Family SPARIDAE and work through the keys that are necessary. When more than one number is given, e.g. TRIGLIDAE 1081 or 1085*, that indicates that the fish you have is either 1081 or 1085, the latter unlikely being a species rarely seen. 465 40 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES. 0 ANAL SPINE Dorsa Anal IX>rsal spines rays. rays. 0 0 . I(X) A. Depth about 6 . ... Bathygadus fumosus* 247 B. Depth at least 12 . ... Trichiurus lepturus 869. 0 0 10 11 many .. ... CORYPHAFNOIDIDAF* 231. 0 0 2*81 1 • many ... .. CORYPHAFNOIDIDAF* 231. 0 5 .“I Fckloniaichthys scylliorhiniccps 1087. 0 7 8 10 A. Head broad and heavy ... Chorisochismus dentex 1086. B. Head normal . Rhynchohyalus nataicnsis* 128. 0 8 11 ... (jcnus Synodus ( 1 72). 0 8 12-16 A. Fins with long filaments ... ... Cjchus Bathypterois* (181). B. Fins normal. 1. Adipose dorsal present Cienus Synodus (172). 2. No adipose dorsal Chanos chanos 10.3. 0 8 L'i-17 ... Albula vulpes 99. 0 9 9 Bathymacrops macrolepis* 129. 0 9 10-1.7 A. .A bright silvery stripe ... Stolephorus delicatulus 107, B. No bright silvery stripe. 1 . Mouth small, below snout . Cionorhynchus gonorhynchus 102. 2. Mouth normal. (u) Teeth minute ... Chlorophthalnius agassizi* 184. (h) Teeth distinct .. SYNODONTIDAF (172). 0 9 14-16 ... Chanos chanos 10.3. 0 9 18-19 ... Ftrumeus micropus 106. 0 10 9 Bathymacrops macrolepis* 129. 0 10 10-16 ■A. Body silvery white. 1. A shining silvery stripe ... Stolephorus delicatulus 107. 2. No shining silvery stripe .. C'hanos chanos 103. B. Body mottled or brown to yellow. 1. No adipose dorsal. (u) Dorsal free from'caudal. .. . . Cionorhynchus gonorhynchus 102. {h) Dorsal joined to caudal l.epadichthys coccinotacnia 1088. 2. .Adipose dorsal present. (a) Teeth barely visible ... Chlorophthalnius agassizi* 184. (^) Teeth distinct ... SYNODONTIDAF (172). 0 10 16-19 ... Ftrumeus micropus 106. 0 1 1 6-8 . . Chauliodus sloani* 143. 0 1 1 9 ... .^rgenlina sphyraena* 127. 466 MAIN key to bony FISHES 467 ANAL SPINE Dorsal Anal horsal spines. rays. rays. () 1 1 10-13 A. Adipo.se dorsal present. 1. Photophores on belly 2. No photophores on belly B. No adipose dorsal ... 0 1 1 16-19 A. Tiny mouth and teeth B I-arge mouth 0 12 6-8 (1 12 9- 13 .A. Body deep ... B. Body rather elc^rngate. I. Photophores on belly - . . 2. No photophores on bell> 0 12 18 0 13 6-8 0 13 9-13 A. No photophores B, Photophores present . . . 0 13 14 0 13 15 0 13 20-25 0 13 38-45 0 14 9-10 0 14 1 1-16 A. Body deep ... B. Body elongate 0 14 20-25 0 14 38-45 0 15 1 1 0 15 12 16 0 15 20-27 0 15 38 -45 0 16 1116 .A. Barbel below chin . B. No barbel. Photophores present C No barbel. No photophores 0 16 1 7-20 0 16 20-27 A. Silvery; large mouth B. Silvery: small mouth C. Not silvery: large mouth . D. Not silvery: small mouth 0 16 38-45 0 17 lO Neoscopelus macrolepidotus* 190. . 127*, 176, 177, 185*, 190*. . Lepadichthys coccinotaenia 1088. Etrumeus micropus 106. Bathysaurus ferox* 179. . Chauliodus sloani* 145. ... Sternoptyx diaphana* 158. Neoscopelus macrolepidotus* 190. . 127*, 176, 177. Bathysaurus ferox* 179. ... Chauliodus sloani* 145. ... Argentina sphyraena* 127. . 156, 158*, 189*, 190, 200*, 205*. Vincinguerria sanzoi 156. . Either 156* or 205*. Flops saurus 100. ... Alepisaurus ferox 187. . 158*. 189*. . STERNOPTYCHIDAE 158* or 159*. . 139*, 156, 157, 201*, 205*. ... Flops saurus 100. ... Alepisaurus ferox 187. . 139* or 178. . 135*, 141*, 156, 157, 159*, 178, 201*, 204*, 205*, 208*. . 100, 385-387, 464. ... .Alepisaurus ferox 187. . 135* or 141*. . 157, 201*, 203*, 204*, 208*. . 124*, 148*, 178, 209*. Sardinella jussieu 114. Flops saurus 100. ... Sardinella jussieu 114. . 385-7, 484. Petroscirtes mitratus 959. Alepisaurus ferox 187. Melanostomias niger* 133. 468 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 0 ANAL SPINE Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 0 17 1 1-16 A. Body deep ... . B. Body elongate. Polyipnus spinosus* 159. 1. Barbel below chin Eehiostoma barbatum*l35. 2. No barbel, photophores present . 194*, 197*. 203*, 204*. 3. No barbel, no photophores . . 124*, 148*, 150*. 0 17 1 7-20 . . CLUPEIDAE 1 1 1 or 1 14. 0 17 21-31 A. Photophores present B. No photophores. Lampanyclus elongatus* 207. 1. Silvery . ... Flops saurus 100. 2. Variegated, large mouth ... Clcnus Opisthognathus (385). 3. Variegated, small mouth . BLENNIIDAE (950). 0 17 38-45 . ... Alepisaurus t'erox 1 87. 0 18 9-10 . . Bathylagus antarcticus* 130. 0 18 1 1-20 A. Deep body B. Body elongate. Polyipnus spinosus* 159. 1. Barbel below ehin . 132*. 133*, 135*. 137*. 2. No barbel, photophores . 197*, 199*, 203*. 204*. 3. No barbel, no photophores. (u) Depth about 7 (6) Depth 2,\-?. . 125*. 147* 148*. 150*. (i) Mouth below snout . . ENGRAUl.lDAE (1 18). (ii) Mouth normal . 108 or CLUPEIDAE (109). 0 18 21-23 . . Lampanyctus elongatus* 207. 0 18 24-32 A. No seales. 1. Teeth fixed . . BLENNIIDAE (950). 2. Teeth mo\able . SALARIIDAE (965). B. Small seales present .. Opisthognathus nigromargiiiatus 386. 0 19 9-10 . Bathylagus antarcticus* 130. 0 19 11-20 A. Barbel below chin ... . 131*. L32*, 135*, 137*. B. No barbel, photophores present . . 193*. 196*. 197*. 199*. 202*, 203* C. No barbel, no photophores. 1. Depth about 7 ... Cyclothone* 146 150. 2. Depth 2J-5. (a) Mouth below snout . ENGRAULIDAE (1 18). (h) Mouth normal ... . 108 or CLUPEIDAE (109). 0 19 21-22 . Myctophum phengodes* 198. 0 19 28-32 . . SALARIIDAE (965). 0 20 9-10 . . Bathylagus antarcticus* 130. 0 20 11-14 A. No photophores B. Photophores present Cyclothone microdon* 149. MYCTOPHIDAE* 193. 196, 199. MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 469 0 ANAL SPINE Dorsai Anal Dorsal spingj rays. rays. 0 20 15-20 A. Barbel below chin B. No barbel, mouth normal C. No barbel, mouth below snout 0 20 28-32 A. Teeth movable B. Teeth fixed ... . 0 20 37-42 0 21 9-10 0 21 11-13 A. No photophores B. Photophores present 0 21 14-19 A. Barbel below chin ... B. No barbel, photophores present ... C. No barbel, no photophores. 1. Depth 2 3, 1st dorsal ray long 2. Depth 2-3, no long dorsal ray. (a) Mouth normal (6) Mouth below snout 3. Depth 4-5 . 4. Depth 7 0 21 21-22 0 21 24-28 0 21 28-32 A. Teeth movable B. Teeth fixed ... 0 21 37-42 0 22 9-10 0 22 11-14 A. No photophores B. Photophores present 0 22 15-18 A. 1st dorsal ray long ... B. 1st dorsal ray normal. 1. Mouth normal 2. Mouth below snout 0 22 21-22 0 22 24-28 0 ’’2 .30-33 0 22 37-42 0 23 9-14 0 23 21-23 0 23 24-28 0 23 30-32 0 23 37-42 131*, 132*, 137*. 108 or CLUPEIDAE (109) or 117. ENGRAULIDAE (118). SALARIIDAE (965). BLENNIIDAE (950). Centrolophus niger 850. Bathylagus antarcticus* 130. Gonostoma bathyphilum* 151. MYCTOPHIDAE* 193, 195, 196. Stomias boa* 131. MYCTOPHIDAE* 193, 195, 206. Nematalosa nasus 117. .Macrura kelee 109. . ENGRAULIDAE (1 18) Gilchristella aestuarius 108. ... Gonostoma bathyphilum* 151. Myctophum phengodes 198. Diretmus argenteus* 285. . SALARIIDAE (965). . BLENNIIDAE (950). ... Centrolophus niger 850. Bathylagus antarcticus 130. ... Gonostoma bathyphilum* 151. . .MYCTOPHIDAE* 192. 193, 195, 196. Nematalosa nasus 117. . Macrura kelee 109. Anchoviella commersonii 1 19. Myctophum phengodes* 198. Diretmus argenteus* 285. Genus Omobranchus (955). . Centrolophus niger 850. . 153*, 155*, 193*. . Scopelopsis multipunctatus* 191. Diretmus argenteus* 285. ... Genus Omobranchus (955) ... Centrolophus niger 850. 470 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 0 Dorsal ANAL SPINE Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 0 24 9-10 0 A. Pelvics rudimentary B. Pelvics normal 24 11-13 0 24 1.5-17 0 24 1 7-20 0 24 21-22 0 24 32 0 24 .77 42 0 24 49-51 0 24 10.7 0 25 7 0 25 9-10 0 A. Pelvics rudimentary B. Pelvics normal 25 1 1-13 0 25 17-20 0 25 21 22 0 25 2.7 0 25 35-48 0 A. No scales B. Small scales present 25 49-52 0 A. Depth about .7 B. Depth about 12 25 55-65 0 25 103 0 26 9 10 0 A. Pelvics rudimentary B. Pelvics normal 26 11-13 0 26 17-20 0 26 36-38 0 26 49 51 0 26 55-65 0 27 9-12 0 27 17-20 0 27 27-29 0 27 36-38 0 27 55-65 0 28 11-12 0 28 17-20 0 28 27-29 0 28 .74-37 0 28 36-38 0 29 1 1-12 0 29 17-20 0 29 34-37 0 30 11-12 0 30 17-20 Oniosiiclis clongatus* 1H6. Maurolicus nuicllcri* 155. 152*, 15.7*, 155*. Ncmatalosa nasus 1 1 7. Megalops cyprinoitles 101. Scopelopsis nniltipimctatus 191. Omobrancluis clongatus 95H. Ccntrolophus nigcr 850. Ammodytes capensis .77.7. l.cpidopus caiidatus 867. Scopelarcluis analis* 180. Oniosudis clongatus* 186. Maurolicus nuicllcri* 155. 152*, 15.7*, 155*, 186*. Mcgalops cyprinoidcs 101. Scopelopsis multipunctatus* 191. Opostoinias gibson-pacci* 1.76. .Xspidontus filamentosus 961. STROM ATEl DAE 847*, 850. Sclicdophilus niedusopbagus* 847. .‘\niniodytcs capensis .77.7. C'orypliaena hippurus 872. Lepidopus caudatus 867. Oniosudis clongatus* 186. Maurolicus nuicllcri* 155. 152*. 15.7*. 155*. Mcgalops cyprinoidcs 101. .•\spidontus lilamcntosus 961. .Ammodytes capensis .77.7. Coryphacna hippurus 872. 140*. 152*. 155*. Mcgalops cyprinoidcs 101. Xcnodcrmichthys socialis* 126. Aspidontus filamentosus 961. C'oryphacna hippurus 872. Yarrclla corythacola* 152. Mcgalops cyprinoidcs 101. ■Xcnodcrmichthys socialis* 126. Apodocreedia vanderhorsti .775. Aspidontus filamentosus 961. Yarrclla corythacola* 152. Mcgalops cyprinoidcs 101. Apodocreedia vanderhorsti .775. Yarrclla corythacola* 152. Mcgalops cyprinoidcs 101. 0 Dorsal spines. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 main key to bony fishes 471 ANAL. SPINE Anal Dorsal rays. rays. 30 30-37 A. No scales. 1. Depth about 3 2. Eel-shaped B. Scales present 30 44-47 31 11-12 31 17-19 31 34-37 31 11-12 31 17-19 31 34-37 31 44-47 32 1 1-12 32 17 19 A. Depth about 3 B. Depth about 5. 32 44 47 33 16-19 A. Depth about 3 B. Depth 5.1 7 33 40 47 33 60 34 16-19 A, Depth about 3 B. Depth 5.1-7 .34 40 47 34 53 60 35 16 19 ,A. Depth about 3 B. Depth 5.1-7 35 40-47 35 53-60 35 65 A. Caudal free B. Caudal not free 36 17-18 36 40-47 36 52-60 A. Body oval B. Body eel-shaped 37 17-18 37 40-47 37 1 1 - 35-42 37 52-60 A. Body oval B. Body eel-shaped 38 17-18 38 1 r 32-43 38 40-46 38 11 *35-42 Psednos micrurus* 1071. Taenioides jacksoni 903. Apodocreedia vanderhorsti 375. Genus Aspidontus 962 or 963. Yarrella corythaeola* 152. lOI or Chirocentrus nudus 103. Apodocreedia vanderhorsti 375. Yarella corythaeola* 152. Chirocentrus nudus 103. Apodocreedia vanderhorsti 375. Genus Aspidontus 962 or 963. Yarella corythaeola* 152. Pellona ditchela 1 16. Chirocentrus nudus 103. Genus Aspidontus 962-963. Pellona ditchela 1 16. Genus Chirocentrus 103 or 104. Stromateus fasciatus 846. Stylophthalmus paradoxus* 138. Pellona ditchela 1 16. Genus Chirocentrus 103 or 104. Stromateus fasciatus 846. Idiacanthus niger* 142. Pellona ditchela 1 16. Genus Chirocentrus 103 or 104. Stromateus fasciatus 846. Genus Idiacanthus* 142 or 144. Bidenichthys capensis 1012. Grammonoides opisthodon 1016. Pellona ditchela 1 16. Stromateus fasciatus 846. Lampris regius 262. Idiacanthus niger* 142. Pellona ditchela 1 16. Stromateus fasciatus 846 Merluccius capensis 257. Lampris regius 262. Idiacanthus niger* 142. Pellona ditchela 1 16. Bregmaceros macclellandi 251. Stromateus fasciatus 846. Merluccius capensis 257. 472 MAIN KEY 0 ANAL SPINE Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 0 38 52-74 A. Body oval ... B. Body eel-shaped 0 38 4 . 50-54 0 39 1+32-43 0 39 1 1 - 35-42 0 39 47-55 A. Depth about 2 B. Depth 5-6 ... C. Body eel-shaped 0 40 22 0 40 1 ! 32^3 0 40 40-51 A. Fins very high B. Fins normal 0 40 47-51 0 40 4 r 50-54 0 40 11 + 35-42 0 40 1 • 55 i 45 0 41 49 0 41-44 1 . 32-43 0 41-44 40-50 0 41-44 47-51 0 41-44 54-74 0 45 55 0 46 4(f 50 0 46 5 - 46 0 48 6 . 48 0 48-50 5 + 50-56 0 50 5 . 60 0 55-63 8-11 0 57-60 70 0 60-70 10-1 1 *50-60 0 60-70 5- 70 0 66 8-62 0 70-75 100 0 o 1 ■f 60-70 + 21 0 75 65 0 80-90 100-110 0 80-100 2- 8-10 — many 0 90 no 0 100 115 0 100 150 0 100-110 4 rl2+36 0 100-190 >100 0 > 190 10-13 1 12 9-12 BONY FISHES Lampris regius 262. ... Genus Idiacanlhus* 142 144. ... Antimora australis* 253. . Bregmaceros maedellandi 251. Merluccius capcnsis 257. ... Lampris regius 262. Malacanthus latovittatus 384. . Taeniolabrus marleyi 374. Eustomias filiferum* 134. Bregmaceros maedellandi 251. ... Pteradis vdifera 870. ... Lampris regius 262. Malacanthus latovittatus 384. ... Antimora australis* 253. Merluccius capensis 257. . Gaidropsarus capensis* 252. . Ccntropholoides falcatus 871. . Bregmaceros maedellandi 251. . F’teradis vdifera 870. . Malacanthus latovittatus 384. Idiacanthus fasciola* 143. . Trypauchen microcephalus 937. . Pteradis vdifera 870. Laemonemodes compressicauda 258. Taenioides esquivd 904. . Haloporphyrus capensis* 255. Haloporphyrus natalensis* 256. . Diplophos taenia* 1 54. Barathronus bicolor* 1013. . Physiculus capensis* 260. Laemonema globiceps* 254. . Physiculus natalensis* 259. ... Cataety.x messieri* 1020. . Melanonus gracilis* 261. . Acanthocepola cuneata 465. . BROTULIDAE (1011) or OPHIDMDAE (1023). .. Genus Coelorhynchus* (231). . Lyconodes argenteus* 246. . Lycodonus vermiformis* 1027. Benthodesmus tenuis* 868. . Tripterophycis gilchristi* 250. . 1 88*, 237*, 238*, 245*, 466, 1 023* . HAI.OSAURIDAE* 169 171. . Sternoptyx diaphana* 1 58. MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 473 ANAL SPINE Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 13 7 13 9-12 14 7 14 9-12 15-16 7 17-20 7 24-36 25-37 34-41 1.3-16 41 4.3-45 42-53 ■A. Eel-like B. Depth about 2,^-4 ... 43-64 1 70 5-r80 2 24-36 25-37 3 13-18 19-22 3 20-30 24-36 3-5 .30-33 40-43 4 7-9 8 10 6 8-9 1 3 1 5 6 6 • 4 7-8 6 10 10-11 6 10 1.3-15 6 6 ■ 5 7-8 6 1 1-12 13-15 6 13 14 A. Large pelvic spines B. Normal pelvic spines 14-16 6 16-17 A. Head ridged, spiny B. Head Hat, smooth ... 14 15 6 23 25-26 6 30-33 40-43 l-t-1 5 6 7 8 6+ 1 10 10 7 8-1 1 13-15 7 6+4 5 7-8 7 7 • 5 9 7 7 - 6 9 7 1.3-15 A. Normal scales B. Bony plates 14-16 7 23 25-26 8 6+4-5 7-8 1-7 1 1-14 11-14 Tachysurus dussumieri 164. Sternoptyx diaphana* 158. .. Tachysurus dussumieri 164. .. Sternoptyx diaphana* 158. Tachysurus dussumieri 164. Tachysurus feliceps 165. .. MONACANTHIDAE (1 137). Genus Thrissocles (121). Pseudalutarius nasicornis 1154. Halidesmus scapularis 1028. ALUTERIDAE 1152-1154. Plotosus anguillaris 163. MONACANTHIDAE (1137). BATRACHOIDIDAE (1215). BALISTIDAE (1155). •Mene maculata 623. CALLIONYMIDAE (388). Grammistes sexlineatus 418. Argyropelecus hemigymnus* 160. Gobiodon citrinus 905. Grammistes sexlineatus 418. Argyropelecus hemigymnus* 160. Grammistes sexlineatus 418. Triacanthodes ethiops* 1136. Branchiostegus doliatus 416. Hoplichthys acanthopleurus* 1061. Bembrops caudimacula* 383a. Zenion hololepis* 272. Mene maculata 623. Dactyloptena orientalis 1076. Paragobiodon echinocephalus 908. Grammistes sexlineatus 418. Argyropelecus hemigymnus* 160. Argyropelecus olfersi* 161. Argyropelecus affinis* 162. Genus Branchiostegus 415-416. Peristedion adeni* 1074. Zenion hololepis* 272. Argyropelecus hemigymnus* 160. .. Genus Platycephalus (1063). 474 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES a ANAL SPINE Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 8 14 16 14 17 A. Head alone bony ... B. Also body in bony platen > . . . ... 8 19-20 20 M 6 • 1 20-25 32 34 8 29 30 9 6 • 4-5 7-8 1 • 8 1 1-12 11-13 9 15-17 15 16 A. Head bony ... B. Head normal 9 17 18 10 6-t-4-5 7-8 10 15-17 15-17 ,A. Head bony ... B. Head normal 10 20-22 1 8-20 1 1 15 17 13-16 1 1 13-7 II 12 • ; 1 1 20-25 18 22 .A. 2 long tentacles on nape B. No tentacles on nape 1 1 27 29 28 12 17-26 14-23 ■A. Teeth movable B. Teeth fixed ... 12 35 34 13 16-18-2 16-18-2 13 17-26 14-24 A. Teeth fixed ... B. Teeth movable 14 15-18 10-12 3-11-1 2 16-18 8-10 14 16-18-2 16-184-2 15-17 14-18-8-12 l4-l8i-8-l 18 12-13-5-6 1 3 * 4-6 19-21 7-10 1 1-15 25-27 10-13 • 8 1 1-14 ■ 9 . TRlC'iLIOAE (1077). Pcristedion adcni* 1074. Peristedion wcbcri* 1075. ... Scriola lalandi 537. Latinicria chaliininae 9X. ... Argyropciecus liemigymiiu>* 1 60. Ciciuis Platyccphalus (I063). . 1 RIGI.IDAE (1077). . Opisthognatluis nuiscateiisis 385. . Lrigla t|iickclli 1084. Argyropciecus hcmigymtuis* 160. LRICiLIOAE 1081 or 1085*. ... Gciuis Opislliognathus (385). Anteniiablcnniiis bifilum 967. ... Ciciuis Opisthognatluis (385). ... .AuKis thazard 828. .Antcnnablcnnius bifilum 967. ... Omobranchus japonicLis 957. C'hiasmodon nigcr* 377. . SALARIIDAE (965). . BLENMIDAE (950). Papyrichthys pcilucidus* 851. Ruvcttus prctiosus 861. . BLENNIIOAE (950) . SALARI1I5AE (965). Opisthognatluis nigromargiiiatus 386. . Enncaptcrygiiis pusillus l(K)6. Ruvcttus prctiosus 861. SC O M B E R O M O R 1 0 A E ( 840) . 3hyrsitoidcs niarlcyi 866. . Genus C'ongiopodtis 1059 1060. . Acanthocybium solandri 843. main key to bony fishes 475 Anal SPINE Dorsal spines. Anal rays. Dorsal rays. U-J 1 1 36-39 41-43 0 41 51 2-3 8-10 9-10 3 15 20 5 8-9 11-12 5 16 18 21 -23 4 • 1 22-26 14 17 5+1 8-9 9 A. Small mouth and teeth B. Large mouth and teeth 6 8 9 II 12 5 • 1 13 14 9 10 5 t 1 16 18 19-21 5 • 1 22-26 14-17 6 37 38 6 44 47 46 51 6+1 6 8 6 : I 7 7 6 . 1 7 8 A. Pelvics united forming kind of disc B. Pelvics separate 6 • 1 8 8 A. F+lvics united forming kind of disc B. Pelvics separate 6 . 1 8 9 A. Pelvics united forming kind of disc B. Pelvics separate 6 • 1 9 10 9-13 A. Pelvics united forming kind of disc B. Pelvics basaily united but ends free C. Pelvics quite separate 6 . 1 1 I 12 10 13 A. Pelvics united forming disc B. Pelvics quite separate 6 ■ 1 13 10 6 • 1 13 111 5 6 ■ ! 14 10 6 ■ 1 14 13-14 6 ■ 1 16-18 13-14 6 • 1 22 26 14-17 7 32 28 7 . 1 5-7 7-8 7 1 16 18 1 3- 1 4 16- 20-25 32-34 8 r 1 6-7 8-9 8- 1 14 15 9-10 1 1-13 . 5-6 11 -12 - 5-6 10-12 10-12 10-12 12 16 15 ll+l 11-5 11+5 Taeniolabrus marleyi 374. Malacanthus latovittatus 384. Genus Melamphaes* (280) Parasphenanthias weberi 464. Monocentri.s japonicus 284. Genus Parapercis (380). iso natalensis 891 . Gobius key 916. SPHYRAENIDAE (895). Monocentris japonicus 284. Hep.setia pinguis 894. Champsodon capensis 376. Iso natalensis 891. Laccoeleotris lineopinnis 944. Trypauchen microcephalus 937. Upeneus bensasi 562. Gobius durbanensis 915. Gobius maxillaris 9i5A. Genus Ophiocara 941-942. Gobius giuris 919. ELEOTRIDAE 938-940; 942. Genus Gobius 916; 919. ELEOTRIDAE 939; 942. GOBIIDAE (903). Hetereleotris diadematus 935. ELEOTRIDAE (938). GOBIIDAE (903). Calleleotris helsdingenii 943. .Atherina afra 892. Genus Gobius 930; 933-934. Atherina afra 892. Gobius stagon 932. .Atherina breviceps 893. Iso natalensis 891 Zenion leptolepis* 273. MULLIDAE (560). Atherina breviceps 893. Seriola lalandi 537. MULLIDAE (560.) Cubiceps brevimanus 857. SCOMBRIDAE 837; 838; 839. Periophthalmus cantonensis 936. Cirripectus gibbifrons 966. Scomber japonicus 839. 476 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES Q] ANAL SPINE Dorsal .Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 12 12 -7-8 12-13 1-8 . Euthynnus pelamis 829. 13 8 10 . Coccotropus monacanthus 1029. 13 10-12 10-12 . Periophthalmus cantonensis 936. 13 12-7-8 12-13 • 8 . Euthynnus pelamis 829. 13 19-22 19-21 . Ohalarodcrma capito 954. 14-15 10-12 10-12 . Periophthalmus cantonensis 936. 15-16 10-12 v 6-8 11-13; 8 . Genus Euthynnus (829). 3-13 18-20 9-10 . Enneapterygius obtusirostre 1007. 16-17 10-12 10-12 . Periophthalmus cantonensis 936. 21-22 13 + 7 I4--164-8-9 . Sarda sarda 833. MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 477 s Dorsal ANAL SPINES Anal Dorsa spines. rays. rays. 2-3 8 9-1! 2 35-40 42-46 3 25-29 30-35 3-4 35-40 42-46 5 8-9 1 1-12 5 22- 23 9 5 26-32 27-31 5 A. Depth about 1 B. Depth about 2 35 40 42-46 6 1 1 12 15-16 6 26 .32 28-33 6 A. No scales B. Distinct scales 35 40 42 46 6 1 8 9 8-9 7 1 1 1 3- 1 4 6 • 1 A. Distinct scales B. No distinct scales ... 13-17 9 6-f- 1 23 27 23-28 7 29 28 7 33 32 7 . 1 7 9 8-10 7 • 1 26 28 24 26 8 ■ 1 8 9 9 10 9 8 10 10-11 9 1 1 10 1 1 9 12 12-13 12-14 8 • 1 12 13 8 1 14 15 9 11 13-56 11-12. 5-6 9 13-4 16-17 - 5 8 1 22-28 26-35 9 1 A. Depth about 3( B. Depth about 7 7 27-32 9 1 8 10 lO 11 12 1 1 lO 12 13 13-14 10 14 15 15-17 lO ■A. Depth about 2 B. Depth about 4 13 4 16 17:5 lO 1 1-13 r 5-6 11-12 -5-6 9 - 1 22-28 23-28 10 37-39 33-36 Melamphaes mizolepis* 280. Apolectus niger 500. BRAMIDAE (859). Apolectus niger 500. Monocentris japonicus 284. Parapriacanthus guntheri 640. Xenolepidichthys dalgleishi 279. Genus Naso (615). Apolectus niger 500. Branchiostegus doliatus 416. Genus Naso (615). ZEIDAE (268). Apolectus niger 500. APOGOMDAE (470). Branchiostegus japonicus 415. Caracanthus zeylonicus 1053. Genus Archamia (489). Pomatomus saltator 547. Zen scutatus* 274. Xenolepidichthysamericanus 279a. APOGOMDAE (470). Pomatomus saltator 547. .Apogon multitaeniatus 488. CALLYODONTIDAE (821). Genus Stethojulis (799). Genus Halichoeres (789). Genus Polydactylus (898). Cubiceps brevimanus 857. SCOMBRIDAE 837, 838, 839. Lepidocybium flavobrunneum 862. Pomatomus saltator 547. Rachycentron canadus 548. Genus Johnius 549 or 551. Synagrops japonicus* 473. Stethojulis renardi 799. Genus Amphiprion (747). Amphiprion bicinctus 748. Opisthognathus muscatensis 385. Lepidocybium flasobrunneum 862- SCOMBRIDAE 837, 838, 839. Rachycentron canadus 548. Cyttoidops mccullochi 268. 478 MAIN KEY m ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 10 • 1 7 2.3-32 9 i 2 8 8 10 • i 9 27-31 11 10 12 11 12-14 11-14 A. No scales . B. Scales present 1 1 13 14 1.3-16 1 1 14-18 14 17 A. No scales . B. Scales present II 13 . 4 16-17 ^ 5 ... 10- 1 20-24 18-23 12 11-12 11 16 A. Teeth conical B. Teeth flattened 12 13 11 17 A. No scales B. Scales present. I. Teeth conical 2. Teeth flattened 12 14 1 1-17 A. No scales B. Scales present. 1. Teeth conical 2. Teeth flattened 12 15 15 12 16-18 14-16 12 13-4 16-17-f5 ... 12 19-24 17-23 A. No scales B. Scales present 12 34 13 7 9 13 10 10-11 13 11-16 10-17 A. Preopercle edge smooth B. Preopercle edge serrate 13 11-12 - 7-9 12-15 - 8-10 ... 14 6-7 8 14 9 7-9 14 II 13 14 13-15 10-12 14 1.3-16 14-15 15 6-7 8 15 9 7-9 TO BONY FISHES SCIAENIDAE (549). Pleuroscopus pseudodonsalis* 379. Atractoscion acquidens 554 Minoiis trachycephalus* 1054. Cirripectus kosien.sis 965. Amphiprion polymnus 747. Oascylliis Irimaciilatus 751. Blennius cristatii.s 950. Amphiprion bicinctu.s 748. Lcpidocybium llavobrunncum 862 SILLACjINIDAE (467). .AMF>HlPRIONIDAE 746, 749. 7.50. 753. Genus Abudelduf 759. 764. 769. Cirripectus kosiensis 965. AMPHIPRIONIDAE (746). Genus Abudelduf 759, 764. 769. Genus Cirripectus (965). Genus Dascyllus 751. 752, 753. Genus Abudefduf 759, 769. Cirripectus gibbifrons 966. Blennius cristatus 950. Lepidocybium llavobrunncum 862. Genus Blennius (950). SILLAGINIOAE (467). Papyrichthys pellucidus* 851. Pterois macrurus 1046. Pomacentrus opercularis 758. Genus Abudefduf (759). Genus Pomacentrus (754). ■SCOMBRIDAE 828, 829. 831 835. Ptarmus jubatus 1030. Choridactylodes natalensis 1055. Opisthognathus macrostomus 387. Opisthognathus nigromarginatus .386. Pomacentrus tripunctatus 756. Ptarmus jubatus 1030. Choridactylodes natalensis 1055. MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 479 •— J anal SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 14 16 1 1-12 : 7-9 12-15 i 8-10 16 6-7 8 164 7 14-I8 + 8-I2 14-17 i 8-12 17 10 t 6-7 10-11 16-7 18-19 10-12-C6-9 14 16 . 7-9 4 • 14 21-22 10-11 20-24 1 1-13-7-8 14-17 i 7_9 25-27 12 ■ 8 13 . 9 25-50 15-36 1-11 SCOMBRIDAE (828). Ptarmus jubatus 1030. Genus Scomberomorus 840-842. Gasterochisma melampus 844. Sarda chiiensis 832. Gillias capensis 1005. Sarda sarda 833. Acanthocybium solandri 843. CLINIDAE (977). See special Numerical Key to CLINIDAE (977). 480 a ANAL SPINES MAIN KEY Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 0 33-38 40-46 2 16-18 25-27 3 16 13 3 16-18 25-27 3 25-26 31-32 4 8-10 25-27 3 ^1 16-18 26-28 4 21-24 27-31 4 -1 7-9 7 10 5 9 11 12-15 4 • 1 16-18 26-28 5 16-18 27-38 5 22-23 9 5 21-24 27-31 5 24-29 28-38 5 30-33 37-40 6 9-11 12-15 6 9-1 1 17-18 5 ‘1 16-18 26-28 6 20-22 22-24 6 20-24 27-33 6 23-26 20-22 6 28-33 29-35 6 30-33 37-40 6 36-47 9-10 7 7-8 10-12 7 1 1 12-14 6 ■ 1 15-17 18-22 1 • 5 - 1 15-17 31-35 6-1 15-17 • 2 24-27 + 2 1-5 - 1 16-20 18-23 7 20-24 27-33 7 23-26 20-22 7 27-33 A. Dorsal spines low B. Dorsal spines high 26-35 7 30-36 A. 3rd dorsal spine very long B. 3rd dorsal spine low 37-45 7-1 7 10 8 7-8 10-12 8 11 A. Head with ridged bones B. Head smooth 12-14 8 14 15-17 1-6- 1 15-17 31-35 I-t-6 - 1 16-19 18-23 A. No free finlets . B. Hind dorsal rays almost free BONY FISHES Stromateus fasciatus 846. Pseudochromis nataicnsis 408. Anchoviclla indica 118. P.seudochroniis nataicnsis 408. Taractcs longipinnis 860. Histiopterus spinifcr 620. Naiicrates doctor 535. Miipus maciilatns 848. MIJGII.IOAE (877). Hoplostetluis mediterraneus* 288 Naiicrates doctor 535. Polymixia nobilis 283. Parapriacanthus goentheri 640. Mupos macolatus 848. Platax pinnatos 577. Stromateus liatola 845. Hoplostethos mediterraneus* 288 Genus Hoplostethos (288). Naiicrates doctor 535. Genus Palinorichthys 849, 849o. Genus Mupos (848). Neoscorpis lithophilus 646. ZEIDAE (268). Stromateus liatola 845. PEMPHERIDAE (640). Plectropomus maculatus 417. Thalassoma hardwicke 780. Genus Alectis (527). Zonichthys nigrofasciata 536. Elagatis bipinnulatus 543. Genus Trachinotus (541). STROMATEIDAE (845). Neoscorpis lithophilus 646. Genus Monodactylus (580). ZEIDAE 274. 275, 278. Genus Zanclus (618). Stromateus fiatola 845. Acropoma japonicum* 499. Plectropomus maculatus 417. TRACHICHTHYIDAE* (288) LABRIDAE 777-784. LEIOGNATHIDAE (624). Zonichthys nigrofasciata 536. Genus Trachinotus (540). Genus Chorinemus (544). MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 481 ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 8 17-19 19-22 1 : I 19-20 22-25 1 + 6 t 1 20 18-24 l- 6 : 1 20-25 32-34 8 20-24 27-33 1 : 1 22 26-33 8 23 20-22 8 23 26-33 A. Skin soft . B. Skin thick and hard 7 • 1 23 26-33 8 24 20-22 8 24 26-33 A. Skin soft . B. Skin thick and hard 8 25 20-22 8 25 26-29 8 26 20-22 8 26-32 26-31 A. No ordinary scales . B. Ordinary scales on body. 1. Tail forked . 2. Tail not forked . 8 31-33 37-40 9 6 10 9 6 21-25 8 ^ 1 7 9 8 ; 1 7 10 9 7 10-1 1 9 7 21-25 9 8 9-12 A. Body silvery B, Body coloured, variegated. 1 . Teeth normal . 2. Teeth fused 9 8 13-14 9 8 14-17 1 7 1 9 9-10 9 9 10-12 A. Teeth fused B. Teeth normal. 1 . Scales minute . 2. Scales large, L.l. 24-26 9 9 14-18 If -7-i 1 10 9-10 Drepane punctata 576. Vomer gibbiceps 526. Genus Trachinotus (540). Seriola lalandi 537. Genus Mupus (848). Rachycentron canadus 548. Neoscorpis lithophilus 646. Mupus maculatus 848. Ctenochaetus strigosus 614. Rachycentron canadus 548. Neoscorpis lithophilus 646. Mupus maculatus 848. Ctenochaetus strigosus 614. Neoscorpis lithophilus 646. Ctenochaetus strigosus 614. Neoscorpis lithophilus 646. Ctenochaetus strigosus 614. Genus Monodactylus (580). ZEIDAE 275, 278. Stromateus fiatola 845. Gerres poeti 630. Spilotichthys pictus 688. Howella sherborni* 498. Acropoma japonicum 499. Genus Gerres (628). Spilotichthys pictus 688. Genus Gerres (628). LABRIDAE 815-817, 819. CALLYODONTIDAE (821) Variola louti 426. Genus Cephalopholis (421). AMBASSIDAE (634). CALLYODONTIDAE (821). Aulacocephalus temmincki 419. LABRIDAE (770). Genus Cephalopholis (421). AMBASSIDAE (634). 41 482 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 9 10-12 10-16 A. Teeth fused . B. Teeth normal. 1. Preopercle margin serrate 2. Preopercle not serrate 8 ^ 1 11-12 12-13 2 1 7 12-13 12-13 84 1 13 12-14 A. Some lower pectoral rays free B. No free pectoral rays 9 13 14 11-14 9 14 15-17 9 15-16 19-21 A. Dorsal spines lower than rays B. Dorsal spines higher than rays 1-7-1 17-20 19-21 9 17 19-21 A. Pectoral longer than head B. Pectoral shorter than head 1 -7 - 1 18 19-20 9 18 19-20 A. No scales ... . B. Normal scales . 8-1 18 20 9 18 19-22 8^ 1 18-20 23-24 1^7-1 18 24-25 l^-7-l 18 29-31 1-47-1 19 19-21 A. L.l. wavy B. L.l. even ... . 9 19 19-25 A. No normal scales. 1. Dark cross-bars . 2. No dark cross-bars B. Normal scales . 8-1 19 23-24 1-74 1 16-19 20-24 1-7-1 19 29-31 1-7- 1 20 20-21 9 20 21-25 8-1 20 23-26 14-7-1 20 24-25 9 20 21-24 1+7-1 20 29-31 14-74-1 21 20-21 CALLYODONTIDAE (821). Cephalopholis aurantiiis 422. LABRIDAE (770). Genus Polydactylus (898). Iniistius pavo 811. Genus Polydaelylus (898). Scombrops dubius 496. LABRIDAE (770). Seeutor insidiator 625. PalinuriclUhys porosus 849a. Tripterodon orbis 578. Genus Chorinemus (.545). Drepane punctata 576. Tripterodon orbis 578. Genus Chorinemus (545). ... Paracanthurus theuthis 607. ... Tripterodon orbis 578. ... Caranx oblongus 525. ... Drepane punctata 576. ... Selar kalla 502. ... Caranx stellatus 512. ... Seriola bonariensis 538. Hypacantus amia 539. Chorinemus santipetri 545. Acanthurus triostegus 608. Paracanthurus theuthis 607 Drepane punctata 576. .. CARANGIDAE (501). Caranx hippos 524. .. Seriola bonariensis 538. Hypacantus amia 539. Acanthurus triostegus 608. .. CARANGIDAE (501). Caranx stellatus 512. Zeus faber 270. Genus Seriola (537). Hypacantus amia 539. MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 483 0ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 9 21 21-25 A, Huge mouth . . Zeus faber 270. 8‘ 1 9 B. Small mouth . Acanthurus triostegus 608. 21 23-26 . Genus Selar (502). 21 27-30 . Mupus maculatus 848. 1-7+ 1 21 29-34 . Genus Seriola (537). 9 22 22-25 . ACANTHUR1DAE608, 612, 614. 8 • I 22 23-28 . Genus Selar (502). 9 22 26-30 . Mupus maculatus 848. 1 + 7 ■ 1 22 32-34 . Seriola lalandi 537. 8+1 23 23-26 . Genus Selar (502). 8+1 23 26-33 . Rachycentron canadus 548. 9 23^26 25-30 A. Depth about 1 . B. Depth lA-3. . Antigonia rubescens 579. 1. Huge mouth . 2. Small mouth. . Zenopsis conchifer* 269. (a) Skin soft . . Mupus maculatus 848. (h) Skin hard . . ACANTHL'RIDAE (607). 17 1 22-26 26-31 . Genus Caranx (521). 84 1 24-27 ■ 1 27-31-1-1 ... . Decapterus punctatus 531. 9 24 28 25-30 A. Huge mouth . B. Small mouth. . Zenopsis conchifer* 269. 1 . Depth about 1 . . Antigonia rubescens* 579. 2. Depth about 2 . . ACANTHL'RIDAE 609-614. 8 ■ 1 26 28 1 30-33 -1 ... . Genus Decapterus (529). 9 28 25-30 .A. Depth about 1 . . Antigonia rubescens* 579. B. Depth about 2 . . Genus Acanthurus 61 1, 612. 8 . 1 27 30 . I 31-35 - 1 ... . Genus Decapterus (529). 10 5 8-9 Parabembras robinsoni 1062. 10 6 9 . Scolopsis bimaculatus 684. 10 6 11-12 . CIRRHITIDAE (393). 10 6 21-25 . Spilotichthys pictus 688. 9- I 7 9 . Neoscombrops annectens* 497. 9* I 6 7 10 . .Acropoma japonicum* 499. 10 7 A. Depth 2.1-3. 9-10 1 . Caudal forked . . SCOLOPSI DAE 683-686. 2. Caudal not forked . Thalliums chlorurus 818. B. Depth 31 . ... . Genus Nemiptems (672). 10 7 13-16 A. Caudal deeply forked ... ... . Planctanthias praeopercularis 455. B. Caudal feebly emarginate . Lutianus vaigiensis 669. C. Caudal truncate or rounded ... . Genus Serranus (427). 10 7 17-18 . Genus Anthias (457). 10 7 21-25 . Spilotichthys pictus 688. 484 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 10 8 A. Caudal rounded . B. Caudal forked. 1. No scales below eye 2. Scales below eye. (fl) 5 scales above L.l. (b) 9 scales above L.l. 8-9 10 8 A. Many dark spots . B. White bar across opercle .. C. Otherwise . 10-16 10 8 17-18 10 9 A. Caudal rounded . B. Caudal forked. 1. 5-6 short gill-rakers 2. 1 5 or more gill-rakers 9-12 10 9 1.3-16 Thalliurus chlorurus 818. LETHRINIDAE (698). Scolop.sis vo.smeri 68.T Aetiasis cantharoidcs 655. Pomada.sys opcrculare 679. Scolopsis vosmeri 68.5. LUTIANIOAE (651). ANTHIIOAE (455). LABRIOAE 796 or 798. PENTAF’ODIOAE (648). Genus Hides (412). 10 7 + 2 10 A. B. A. B. Many dark spots ... . Otherwise 9 17-18 10 9-10 10 9-12 Caudal rounded. 1. Pelvic normal ... 2. 1st pelvic ray filamentous Caudal forked. 1. No scales below eye . 2. Some scales below eye. (fl) 5-6 short gill-rakers (b) More than 10 gill-rakers. (i) Silvery . (ii) Dark . Pomadasys opereulare 679. LUTIANIOAE (651). ANTHIIDAE (455). Emmclichthys nitidus 574. Duymaeria flagellifera 796. Pteragogus taeniops 798. Gymnocrotaphus curvidens 7.50. PENTAPODIDAE (647). Genus Dules (412). Pachymetopon blochii 736. 10 10 13-16 . Pomadasys opereulare 679. 10 11-12 9-1 1 A. Caudal rounded ... Stethojulis renardi 799. B. Caudal forked . . Dules taeniurus 412. 10 II 13-15 A. Depth about 2 . Puntazzo puntazzo 712. B. Depth about 3J ... Caesio caerulaureus 687. 10 12-13 12-15 A. Caudal truncate B. Caudal forked Priacanthus boops 404. 1. Depth about 2 ... . Puntazzo puntazzo 712. 2. Depth about 3J- ... Caesio caerulaureus 687. 10 13 18-19 . . Coracinus capensis 644. 10 13 21-23 . . Coracinus multifasciatus 645. 10 14 12-13 . . Priacanthus cruentatus 403. 10 14 14-15 . Priacanthus hamrur 406. main key to bony fishes 485 \3 ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 10 14 18-19 10 14 21-23 10 15-16 14-15 1 + 8 : 1 8-10 i 6-8 10-11 ^7- 10 19 21-25 1-8+1 15-22 18-26 10 20 A. Huge mouth . B. Small mouth 21-25 1-8-1 20-23 23-27 10 20 28-32 10 21 23 21-25 1 ■ 84 1 22 25 26-28 9 - 1 22-28 26-33 10 24-26 24-26 1 - 8+ 1 24-26 29-31 1-8+1 27-30 30-34 1 ■ 8 M 24-27 . 1 30-32 -El 1:8+1 28 -30 ■ 1 34-37 ; 1 10 - 1 5 8-9 11 6 6-7 II 6 13-14 10 • 1 7 9 II 7 A. Spines on preopercle B. No spines on preopercle 10-11 11 7 A. Teeth distinct B. Teeth feeble 12-14 11 7 A. Mouth reaches below eye B. Mouth not to below eye 14-17 il 8 6-7 1 8 8 11 8 10-12 A. Spines on preopercle ... . B. No spines on preopercle. 1. Silvery or grey ... 2. Yellow or dark lines along body one through eye ... 3. Pink or red. Depth 3| . 4. Pink or red. Depth 2-3. (a) Rounded molars in mouth (h) No rounded molars in mouth . • ■ Coracinus capensis 644. .. Coracinus multifasciatus 645. .. Genus Priacanthus 405 or 406. .. Megalaspis cordyla 534. .. Acanthurus triostegus 608. .. CARANGIDAE(501). Zeus faber 270. Acanthurus triostegus 608. CARANGIDAE(501). Centrolophus niger 850. Acanthurus triostegus 608. Caranx fulvoguttatus 522. Rachycentron canadus 548. Zenopsis conchifer* 269. Caranx gymnostethoides 521. Trachurus trachurirs 501. Genus Decapterus (529). Branchialepes tabulae 504. Parabembras robinsoni 1062. Plesiops nigricans 410. Rhonciscus striatus 680. Neoscombrops annectens* 497. Therapon jarbua 401. Genus Chrysoblephus (720). Genus Lutianus 657-671. Rhonciscus striatus 680. Genus Epinephelus (434). Pluchus chubbi 689. Plesiops nigricans 410. Plesiops melas 41 1. Genus Therapon (400). SPARIDAE 707, 716, 726. Lutianus lineolatus 671. Etelis carbunculus 651. Genus Argyrops 715-716. DENTICIDAE 740-741. MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 486 m Dorsal spines. ANAL SPINES Anal rays 11 11 7 • 3 11 1! A. B. B. A. B. A. B, A. B. A. B, Dorsal rays. 17 8 13 Caudal square-cut or rounded. 1 . Mouth small . 2. Mouth to below eye ... Caudal more or less forked. 1. Many dark spots . 2. Blue, tail yellow . 3. Yellowish, blue lines . 9 8 9 9-12 Preopercle margin serrate. 1. Cauda! forked, dark spots 2. Caudal forked, lines along body 3. Caudal not forked, seales small 4. Caudal not forked, scales large Preopercle not serrate 9 13-16 Teeth feeble . Small canines present. 1. Caudal truncate 2. Caudal more or less forked ... 10 10 10 16 Preopercle margin serrate. 1. Many dark spots 2. Dark lines along body 3. Drab, small scales . 4. Coloured, variegated ... 5. Mainly red . Preopercle not serrate. 1. L.l. close to dorsal . 2. L.l. normal . 11 10-16 Dorsal and anal scaly to margin Dorsal and anal not scaly to margin. 1. Molar teeth present . 2. No molars. {a) Red with cross-bars (6) Not with cross-bars. (i) Depth about 2 (ii) Depth about 2i 11 17-19 12 10-14 Dorsal and anal scaly to margin Dorsal and anal not scaly to margin. 1 . Caudal forked. (a) Molars present ... (h) No molars 2. Caudal not forked 12 17-19 Pluchus chubbi 689. SERRANIDAE (418). Pomadasys opercularc 679. Epinephclus flavocaeruleus 433. Genus Lutianus 657 or 658. Plesiops melas 411. Pomadasys opercularc 679. Lutianus lineolatus 671. Polyprion americanus 453. Pteragogus opercularis 797. SPARIDAE, 707. 721, 725. Pomadasys opercularc 679. Epinephclus modestus 441. Genus Lutianus 663, 665, 671. Emmeliehthys nitidus 574. Pomadasys opercularc- 679. Pelates quadrilineatus 402. Polyprion americanus 453. Pteragogus opercularis 797. Genus Lutianus 663 or 665 Callanthias legras 460. SPARIDAE (706). Genus Kyphosus (638). SPARIDAE (706). Lutianus sebae 665. Lobotes surinamensis 414. Pterosmaris axillaris 704. Dinoperca petersii 454. Genus Kyphosus (638). SPARIDAE 710 or 712. Pterosmaris axillaris 704. Lepidaplois hirsutus 773. Dinoperca petersii 454. 11 MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 487 [U ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. II 13 12-19 A. Caudal truncate B. Caudal more or less forked. 1 . Fins densely scaly. (a) Mouth very large (h) Mouth small 2. Fins not scaly . 10 • 1 13 14-16 11 14 13-15 10 • 1 14 14-16 11 14 14-17 11 14 20-22 10 • i 15 14-16 II 15 14-17 11 15 16 20-28 Dinoperca petersii 454. Parascorpis typus 407. Kyphosus bigibbus 639. SPARIDAE 713 or 731. Psenes indicus 852. SPARIDAE 713 or 731. Psenes indicus 852. Parascorpis typus 407. Genus Oplegnathus (461). Psenes indicus 852. Parascorpis typus 407. A. Teeth fused to a beak B. Teeth normal, minute 10 • 1 11 II lOFi 10 ‘ I 17-19 17-19 21 22 23-27 20 22-28 22-24 22-23 22-27 Genus Oplegnathus (461). CHAETODONTIDAE 590 or 592. Psenes whitelegii 853. CHAETODONTIDAE 589-592. Pomacanthus striatus 583. Psenes rotundus 854a. A. Depth 2 B. Depth 3.1 11 + 1 5 12 5 12 5 12 6 12 6 12 6 12 6 12 7 12 7 12 7 8 9 8-10 13 6-7 9- 10 13-15 18-20 6-7 9 10- 16 Psenes cyanophrys 854. Nomeus albula 855. Parabembras robinsoni 1062. SCORPAENTDAE (1035). Helicolenus maculatus 1034. Plesiops nigricans 410. Scorpaena mossambica 1037. POMADASYIDAE 676 or 680, Genus Gaterin 695 or 697. Plesiops nigricans 410. Centracantus australis 705. A. Spines on preopercle B. Preopercle margin serrate. 1. Caudal truncate . 2. Caudal emarginate C. Preopercle margin smooth. 1. Depth 2|-2| ... . 2. Depth about 3 ... 12 7 17-21 12 8 6-7 12 8 8 Therapon jarbua 401 . Acanthistius sebastoides 431 . POMADASYIDAE (674). SPARIDAE 721 or 725. Centracantus australis 705. Genus Gaterin (692). Plesiops nigricans 410. Plesiops melas 411. MAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 488 ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsa spines. rays. rays. 12 8 9-11 A. Spines on preopercle B. Preopercle serrate C. Preopercle margin smooth. 1. Teeth feeble 2. Teeth prominent. (a) Rounded inner molars (/)) No rounded molars 8 12 16 A. Caudal truneate B. Caudal emarginate ... 2 8 18-20 2 9 8 2 9 10-12 12 7-4^1 12 A. Caudal not forked B. Caudal forked. 1. Reddish or pink. {a) Scales on maxilla... (6) No scales on maxilla. (i) Rounded inner molars (ii) No rounded molars 2. Silvery, dark stripes 9 14-16 10 9-10 10 10 A. Uniform pink B. With dark stripes 12 10 1 1-12 12 11 10 12 1 1 11-14 12 A. 11 Red, dark cross-bars 15-17 B. Uniform, depth 2 ... C. Uniform, depth 2^ 12 12 9-14 A. Parrot-like beak B. Normal teeth 12 12 15-17 12 13-14 13-15 A. Parrot-like beak B. Large mouth, no teeth C. Small mouth, distinct teeth 15 14 17 Genus Therapon (400). Pomadasys guoraka 674. Centracantus australis 705. SPA R1 DAE 715-722, 724. DENTICIDAE 740, 742 745. Acanthistius sebastoides 4.71 POMADASYIDAE (674). Genus Gaterin (692). Plesiops melas 41 1 Polyprion americanus 453. Plagiogeneion rubiginosus 575. SPARIDAE 721 723, 725. Polysteganus undulosus 742. THERAPONIDAE (400) Lutianus sebae 665. Emmelichthys nitidus 574. Pagellus natalensis 728. Peiates quadrilineatus 402. Polyprion amerieanus 453. Lepidaplois diana 774. 461 or 6.39. Lutianus sebae 665. Lobotes surinamensis 414. Pomadasys olivaceum 675. Oplegnathus conwayi 461. 639 or Genus Lepidaplois (772). Pomadasys olivaceum 675. Opleganthus conwayi 461. Parascorpis typus 407. 639 or Diplodus sargus 713. Parascorpis typus 407. 12 MAIN KEV TO BONY FISHES 489 ANAL SPINES Dorsal Ana] Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 12 16-23 19-28 A. Large spine on preopercle B. No spine on 11 : 1 17-21 20-24 12 12 17-8 ' 2-13 + 8 II • 1 24-27 24-26 12 34 34 13 5 7 13 5 8-9 13 5 10 13 6 9-12 A. Pectoral rays ail simple B. Some pectoral rays branched 13 6 13-15 A. Head spiny ... B. Head smooth 13 6 18-20 13 7 9 13 7 10-15 A. Fins filamentous. 1. Pectoral rays simple 2. Some pectoral rays branched B. Fins normal. 1. Depth about 2 ... 2. Depth about 2|-3 13 7 16 21 A. Pit below chin B. No pit below chi ri ... 13 8 10-12 13 8 12-21 A. Fins filamentous B. Fins normal. 1 . Pit below chi n . . 2. No pit below chin 13 9 1 1 13 9 14-16 13 1+1 1 9 13 12 10 13 12 • 7-8 1 00 1 13 16-24 16-28 A. Spine on preopercle B. No spine on preopercle 14 6 13-14 14 7-8 15-18 9.4- 1 10 9-10 14 16-21 15-22 14 1 1-12^7-8 12-15^ 8- 14 23-24 25-27 15 4 5-6 15 5-6 8-9 Pomacanthus striatus 583. CHAETODONTIDAE (589). STROMATEIDAE 853, 856, 858. Euthynnus pelamis 829. Nomeus albula 855. Papyrichthys pellucidus 851. Synanceja verrucosa 1052. Sebastosemus capensis 1044. Scorpaenodes guamensis 1044a. Pterois volitans 1047. Genus Dendrochirus (1049). Sebastichthys capensis 1045. Pomadasys hasta 676. Gaterin lineatus 695. Pterois macrurus 1046. Genus Pterois (1046). Genus Dendrochirus (1049). Pseudopristipoma nigrus 690. POMADASYIDAE (674). Rhonciscus anas 682. PLECTORHYNCHIDAE (690). 717 or 1048. Pterois russellii 1048. POMADASYIDAE (674). PLECTORHYNCHIDAE (690). Porcostoma dentata 717. Rhonciscus anas 682. Anchichoerops natalensis 771. Lepidaplois perditio 776. SCOMBRIDAE (828). POMACANTHIDAE (583). CHAETODONTIDAE (589). Sebastichthys capensis 1045. Genus Pseudopristipoma (690). Emmelichthys nitidus 574. POMACANTHIDAE (583). SCOMBRIDAE (828). Chaetodon xanthocephalus 605. Coccotropsis gymnoderma 1031. Amblyapistus binotata 1032. 490 ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal spines. rays. 15 7-8 15 16-17 15 12-1 7-8 16 5-7 16 12 1 7-8 16 12-14 . 9-10 16 16-18 17 5-7 17 9 17 9-10 16-r 1 19-20 17 12-14 • 9-10 18 9 A. Cross-bars ... B. Uniform 18 9-10 18 8-10+5-6 18 10-12 1 6-9 19 9 19-20 8-10-5-6 19 10-12- 6-9 30-32 12 r 6 MAIN KEY TO BONY PISHES Dorsal rays. 9-10 16-17 12-15-18 ... 7-8 12-13-18 ... 15-17 1 9-10 ... 22-23 7-8 22-23 27-31 19-20 15 17 . 9-10 ... 21-25 27-31 10-12 i 5-6 ... 14-16+6-9 ... 21-25 10-12-1 5-6 ... 14-16 . 6-9 ... 12-13 i 6 ... Apistus carinatus 1051. Genus Centropyge 587 or 588. SCOMBRIDAE (828). Genus Amblyapistus (1032). SCOMBRIDAE (828). Scomberomorus commerson 840. C'haetodon blackburnii 606. .Amblyapistus laenionotus 1033. Palunolepis grandis 399. Palunolepis brachydaetylus 398. Epinnula orientalis* 865. Seomberomorus eommerson 840. Chilodaetylus t’aseialus 397. Palunolepis grandis 399. Palunolepis braehydaetylus 398. Thyrsites atun 863. Sarda chilensis 832. CH ILODACTYl.l DAE 397 or 399 Thyrsites atun 863. Sarda chilensis 832. Gempylus serpens 864. IVIAIN KEY TO BONY FISHES 491 ANAL SPINES Dorsal Anal Dorsal spines. rays. rays. 4 26-27 18-19 4 27-29 13 15 5 16-18 27-38 6 15 14 15 6-8 30-33 33-35 9-10 20 22 21-24 11 7-10 11-14 11 12-15 13-18 A. Red, spiny . . B. Yellowish, cross-bars ... 12-13 7-8 12 13 5 8-9 12-13 9-10 12-13 14 8-9 9-10 14 15 16 15-17 Actinoberyx longipinnis* 287. Beryx splendens* 286. Polymixia nobilis* 283. Trachichthodes spinosus* 293. Neocyttus rhomboidalis* 278. Gen us Zeus 270 or 271 . HOLOCENTRIDAE (294). Myripristis murdjan 298. Scatophagus tetracanthus 582. Quinquarius capensis 621. Sebastosemus capensis 1044. Genus Holocentrus (294). Psuedopentaceros richardsoni 622 Chaetodon trifascialis 605a. EE Dorsal ANAL SPINES Anal Dorsal Spines. rays. rays. 12-13 7-8 12 . ■ Quinquarius capensis 621 . 14 15 16 15 17 . . Chaetodon trifascialis 605a. 0 ANAL SPINES 14 12-13 9 10 . ... Genus Siganus (901). 8-10 18-19 ANAL SPINES 4 4 . ... Acanthoplesiops indicus 409. IfjJ ANAL SPINES 49 0 0 Centropholoides falcatus 871. |4-2-50| ANAL SPINES 40 46 0 0 Pteraclis velifera 870. LITERATURE LIST SECTION A: Ll-LlOO. Publications which deal exclusively with Marine Fishes from South>frica. Authors are listed alphabetically. Titles are sometimes synoptic only. L t. Barnard. 1923, “New Fishes from S.A.” Annals S.A, Museum. XIII., p. 439. L 2. Barnard, 1925, " New Fishes from S.A." Annals & Mag, Nat. Hist. (9). XV., p. 498. L 3. Barnard. 1925, " Monograph of the Marine Fishes of S.A." Annals S..A. Museum. XXI, Pt. I. L 4. Barnard. 1927, " Monograph of the Marine Fishes of S.A." Annals S.A. Museum. XXI. Pt, 2. L 5. Barnard. 1934. " New records and Descriptions of 2 new Species of S.A. Fishes." Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (10). XII.. p. 228. L 6. Barnard. 1935, " Notes on S.A. Marine Fishes." Annals S.A. Museum, XXX. Pt. 5. p. 645. L 7. Barnard. 1937, " Further notes on S.A. Marine Fishes." Annals S.A. Museum. XXXll. Pt. 2, p. 41. L 7a. Barnard. 1948. "New records S.A. Fishes." Ann. S.A. Mu.seum. XXXVI. Pt. V. L 8. Barnard & DAvtrs. 1947, " New Zeid Fish." Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (II). XIII. . p. 790 L 9. Barnard & von Bonde. 1944. " Adult Diretmus." Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (11). XI., p. 236. L 10. Bodlenoer. 1902. " Flat Fishes of the Cape Colony." Marine Investigations in S.A. 1.. p. I. Also: " Two New Gobii-form Fishes " from the C.G.H. Same volume, p. 8. Also : " New Fishes from the C.G.H." Same volume, p. 10. L II. Bodlenoer. 1903, "Six new Perciform Fishes from Natal." Annals S.A. Museum. III. Pt. 3. p. 63. L 12. Boulenoer. 1904, "Two New Deep Sea Fishes from S.A." Marine Investigations in S.A. IF, p. 167. L 12a. DAVtES. 1949, "New Goby from S.A." Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. L 13. Fowler. 1925, " Three new Marine Fishes from Natal." Annals Natal Museum. V. Pt. 2, p. 195. L 14. Fowler. 1925. “Fishes from Natal & P.E.A.” Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phil. LXXVIF, p. 187. L 15. Fowler. 1 926. " Three Unusual Fishes Trom Natal." Annals Natal Museum. V. Pt. 3, p. 399. L 16. Fowler. 1929. “New and Little Known Fishes from Natal." Annals Natal Museum. VI. Pt. 2. p. 245. L 19. Fowler. 1934, " Fishes obtained by Beil-Marley in Natal and Zululand." Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phil. LXXXVF, p, 405. L 20. Fowler. 1934, “Natal Fishes obtained by Bell- Marley.” Annals Natal Museum. VII. Pt, 3, p. 403. L2I. Fowler. 1935, "S.A. Fishes from Bell-Marley." Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci, Phil. LXXXVIF, p. 361. 1.^2. Ciii.ruRisi. 1902, "Focal Names of S.A. Fishes," Trans. S.A. Phiios. Soc. XF L 23. CiiLfiiRisT. 1902, "Catalogue of S.A. Fishes." Marine Inve.stigations in S.A. F, p, 97. L 24. CiiLt'URisr. 1902, " South African Fishes.” Marine Investigations in S.A. IF, p. 101. L 25. Ciilchrist. 1902, "New South African Fishes." Marine Investigations in S.A. IF, p. 203. L 26. Ciiit'HRisT. 1903, "South African Fishes.” Report of Govt. Bioi. for 1902., p. 196. L 27. Ciii.ciiRist . 1903, "Development of S.A. Fishes," Marine Investigations in S.A, IF, p. 181. L 28. C.iLt-HRist. 1904, "New S.A. Fishes." Marine Investigations in S.A. III., p. 1. L 29. Ciit.C'HRisi . 1904. " Development of S.A. Fishes.” Marine Investigations in S.A. Ill , p. 131. I 30. Ciit (iiRist . 1906, "Fifteen new S.A. Fishes." Marine Investigations in S.A. IV., p. 143. L 31. Ciii.riiRisT. 1913, " Review of S.A. Clupeidae." Marine Bio. Rep. F. p. 46. L32. GiLCHRtST. 1913, "A New Sling Ray from S.A." Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. III., p. 33, L 33, CiitruRisT. 1914, " Habits of .Some S.A. Fishes.” Marine Biol. Report. IF, p, 90. F 34. GiLCHRisr. 1914, “The Snoek and Allied Fishes in S.A." Marine Biol. Report. IF, p. 116. F 35. CiiLCHRisT. 1914, " Three New S.A. Fishes.” Marine Biol. Report. IF, p. 128. F 36, GiLCHRisr. 1917, ” Protective Resemblance in Post- Larval Cape Fishes,” Trans. Roy, Soc. S.A. VF. p. 205. L 37. Gilchrist. 1918, " Spawning of Pilot Fish.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (9). IF, p. 1 14, L 38. Gilchrist. 1922, “ Notes on l iving Fishes.” Trans. Royal Soc. S.A. X., p, 23. L 39. CiiLCHRi.ST. 1922, " Deep Sea Fishes.” Fisheries & Mar. Bio. Rep. No. 2, p. 41. 1.40. CiiLCHRisr. 1921, "Reproduction of Deep Sea Fishes.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (9). VIF. p. 173. 1.41. Gilchrist & Hunter. 1919, "Table Bay Fishes.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A, VI IF, p. 1. L 42. Gilchrist & Thompson. 1908, “ Blenniidae of S.A." Annals S.A, Mus. VF Pt. I, p. 97, F 43. Gilchrist & Thompson. 1908," Fishes from Natal.” Annals S.A. Mus. VF, p. 145 and Pt. IF, p. 213 (1909). L 44. Gilchrist & Thompson. 191 1, " Pishes from Natal.” HI. Annals of the S.A. Mus. XF, p. 29. 492 literature list 493 L 45. L 46. L 47. L 48. L 49. L 50. L 51 . L 52. L 53. L 54. L 55. L 56. L 57. L 58. L 59. L 60. L 61 . L 62. L 63. L 64. L 65. L 66. L 67. 1. 68. L 69. L 70. L 71 . L 72. Gilchrist & Thompson. 1914, “Fishes from Natal.” IV. Annals of the S.A. Mus. XIII,, p. 65. Gilchrist & Thompson, 1916, “ Four new S.A. Fishes.” Marine Biol. Rep. III., p. 56. Gilchrist & Thompson. 1917, “ Catalogue of Natal Fishes.” Annals Durban Museum. I., p. 255. Gilchrist & von Bonoh. 1923, “The Stroma- teidae.” Fisheries & Mar. Bio. Surv. Rep. 3. Spec. Rep. IV. Gilchrist & von Bonoe. 1924, “ Deep Sea Fishes.’’ Fisheries & Mar. Bio. Surv. Rep. 3. Spec. Rep VII. Pappk. 1853, “Synopsis Edible Fishes of the Cape.” Reoan. 1906, “ New Fishes from Natal.” Annals Natal Museum. I., p. I. Rkoan. 1908, “ Fishes from Natal, Zululand and the Cape.” Annals Natal Museum. I. Pt 3 p. 241. Reoan. 1916, " Fishes from Natal.” Annals Durban Museum. I. Pt. 3, p. 167. Reoan. 1917, “Additions to Natal Fish Fauna.” Annals Durban Museum. I. Pt. 4, p. 458. Reoan. 1919, " Fishes' from Durban.” Annals Durban Museum. | II., p. 197. Rkian. 1920, “ Revision of Natal Flat-fishes." Annals Durban Museum. IF, p. 205. Rkian. 1921, “ New Deep Water Fishes from Natal.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (9>. VII., p. 412. Smiih, a. 1849, “Illustrations S.A. Zoology.” Fishes. Smith, J. L. B. 1931, ‘\New Fishes from S.A." Records Albany Mus. IV., p. 145. Smiih, J. F. B. 1933, " New Myctophid Fish from S.A." Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXI , p. 125. Smith, J F. B. 1933, " S.A. Species of Hemirham- phus." Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXF, p. 129. Smith, J. F. B. 1934, “ Cirowth Changes of Ptero- platea.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIF. p. 83. Smith, J. 1 B. 1934, “ Marine Fishes New to S.A.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIF, p. 90. Smith, J. 1. B. 1934, “ Triglidae of S.A" Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIF, p. 321. Smith, J. F. B. 1935. " Mugilidae of S.A" Annals S.A. Museum. XXX., p. 587. Smith. J. F. B. 1935, “ Cialjoen Fishes of S A.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIIF, p. 265. Smith, J F. B. 1936, "New Fishes from S.A.” Records .Albany Mus. V., p. 169. Smith, J. 1.. B. 1936. “ S.,A. Aluteridae.” Records Albany Mus. p. 359. Smitti, j. I . B. 1936, “ fienus Tripterodon.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIIF, p. 303. Smith, J. F. B. 1936, “Two New Fishes from S.A.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIV., p. 1. Smith. J. F. B. 1936, “ New Gobioid Fishes.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIV., p. 47. Smith, J. L. B. 1937, “ New Records of S.A. Fishes.” Annals Natal Museum. VlIF, p. 167. L73. Smith, J. L. B. 1938, “ Post-larval Galjoen.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. P- 389. L 74. Smith, J. L, B. 1938, ” Sparidae and Denticidae.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A- XXVF, p. 225. L 75. Smith, J, L. B. 1938, “ New Gobioid Fish.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXVI., p. 319. L 76. Smith, J. L. B. 1939, ‘‘Living Fish of Mesozoic- Type.” Nature. 143, p. 455. 'L 77. Smith, J. L. B. 1939, “Surviving Fish Actinistia.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A- XXVIF, p. 47. 1-78, Smith, J. L. B. 1939, “New Fishes from P.E.A.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXVIF, p. 215. 'L79. Smith, J.L.B. 1940, “ Living Coelacanthid Fish from S.A.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXVIIF, p. I. L 80. Smith, J. L. B. 1940, " Sparid Fishes from P.E.A.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A- XXVIIF, p. 175. LSI. Smith, J. L. B. 1941, “The Genus Gymnocranius.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXVIIL, p. 441. L 82. Smith, J. L. B. 1942, "The Genus Austrosparus.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXIX., p. 279. L 83. Smith.J.L. B. 1943, “ Juvenile Stadia of S.A. Fishes.’’ Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXX., p. 49. L 84. Smith, J. L. B. 1943, “ New Fishes of 3 Genera.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A. XXX., p. 67. L 85, Smith, J.L.B. 1946, “ Clinid Fishes of S.A.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (II). XIF, p. 535. L 86. Smith, J. L. B. 1947, " New Species and Records of S.A, Fishes.” A.M.N. Hist. ( 1 1). XIIF, p. 793. L 87. Smith, J. L. B. 1948, “New Clinid Fishes from S.A.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. (II), XIV. L 88. Smith, J. L. B. 1948, “ Revisions and New Fishes from S.A.” A.M.N. Hist. (II). XIV., p. 332. L 89. Smith, J. L. B. 1948, “Generic Revision Mugilidae S.A.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. L 90. Smith, J. L. B. 1949. “Fishes New to S.A.” A.M.N. Hist, L91. Smith, J. L. B. 1949. ' S.,4. Monacanthid Fishes.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. L9Ia. Smith, J. L. B. 1949, ‘'New Stromateid Fishes.” Annals & Mag. Nat. Hist. L 92. Thompson. 1914, “Catalogue of Cape Fishes.” Marine Biol. Rep. IF, p. 132. L 93. Thompson. 1916, “Catalogue of Cape Fishes.” Marine Biol. Rep. Ill , p. 69. L 94. Thompson. 1918, “Catalogue of Cape Fishes,” Marine Biol. Rep. IV., p. 75. L 95. VON Bonde. 1921, “ Flat Fishes of S.S. Pickle." Fisheries & Mar Bio. Surv. Rep. No. 2. Spec. Rep. F, p. 3. L 96. VON Bonde. 1923, “Shallow W'ater Fishes, S.S. Pickle." Fisheries and Mar. Biol. Surv. Rep. No. 3. Spec. Rep. I. L 97. VON Bonde. 1925, “ Heterosomata from P.E.A.” Trans. Roy. Soc. S.A, XIF, p, 285. L 98. VON Bonde. 1929, Fisheries & Mar. Biol. Surv. VIF Spec. Rep. 3. L 99. Von Bonde & Swart. 1923, “Skates and Rays, S.S. Pickle." Fisheries & Mar. Biol. Surv. Rep. No. 3. Spec. Rep. 5. 494 LITERATURE LIST SECTION B: LlOl on. Publications containing matter relating to fishes which occur in South African waters. L 101 1738 Artedi Genera Pisces, L 102 1740 Klein Pise. Misc. Vol. IV. L 103 1754 Gronovius Mus. Ichth. L 104 1757 Osbeck Iter. Chinensis. L 105 1758 Linnaeus Syst. Naturae, Ed. X. L 106 1758 Artedi in Seba, Thes. Vol, HI. L 107 1760 Gronovius Act. Helv. Vol. VI 1. L 108 1763 Gronovius Zoophylaceum. L 109 1764 Houttuyn Nat. Hist. folg. Linn. L no 1766 Linnaeus Syst. Naturae, Ed. XI 1. L 111 1770 Gouan Historia Piscium. L 112 1771 Osbeck Iter. Chinensis. Vol. 11. L 113 1775 Forskal Descr. anim., etc. L 114 1775 Klein Neuc SchpL d. Nature, etc. L 115 1777 Forster leones Ineditae. L 116 1782 Houttuyn ■Act. Soc. Maarl. Vol, XX. L 117 1785/95 Bloch Naturg. d. AusJ. Fische., Vols. 1-IX. L 118 1788 Bloch Ichthyol. L 119 1788 Walbaum .Artedi. Vol, 111. L 120 1789 A hi De Muraen. et Oph. L 121 1791 Euphrasen Vet. Ac. Nya. Hand. Vol. Xll. L 122 1791 Menzies Tr. Linn. Soc. Lond. Vol. 1 L 123 1794 Latham Tr. Linn. Soc. Lond. Vol. 11. L 124 1797 Mungo Park Tr. Linn. Soc, Lond. III. L 125 1797 Bloch Ichthyol. IX. L 126 1798- 1800 Lacepiede Hist. Nat. Poiss. 1 & 11. L 127 1801 Bloch & Schneider Syst. Ichthy. L 128 1801/2 Lacepede Hist. Nat. Poiss. Ill & l\ . L 129 1802 Bloch Ichthyol. X. L 130 1803 Lacepede Hist. Nat. Poiss. \ . L 131 1803 '4 Shaw Gen. Zool. IV-V. L 132 1803/8 Giorna Mem. d. I'Acad. Imp. d. Torino. L 133 1806 Dumeril Zoologie Analytique. L 134 1810 Rafinesque Car. d. Ale. Nuov. Gen. etc. L 135 1810 Rafinesque Indice d'Itt. Sec. L 136 1815 Rafinesque ■Analyse d. 1, Nature. L 137 1815 Cuvier Mem. Mus. d'Hist. Nat. L 138 1816 Blainville Journ, Phys. L 139 1816 Blainville Bull. d. 1. Soc. Phil. L 140 1817 Cuvier Regne Animal. Ed. 1. L 141 1817 Oken Isis. L 142 1818 Le Sueur Journ. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. 1. L 143 1818 Cuvier Mem. Mus. Hist. Nat. IV. L 144 1820 Tilesius Mem. Acad. Sci. Petersb. L 145 1822 Hamilton- Buchanan Fishes Ganges. L 146 1824 Quoy & Gaimard Voy. Freyc. Poiss. L 147 1824 Quoy & Gaimard Voy. d. rUranie Zool. L 148 1826 Risso Hist. Nat. etc. L 149 1826 Kaup Isis. XIX, L 150 1828 Ruppell Atlas Fische. L 151 1828 Ruppell Fische des Rothen Meeres. L. 152 1828/9 Cuvier & Valenciennes Hist, Nat. Poiss, ll-IV. L 153 1829 Cuvier Regne Anim, 2nd Ed. 11. 1. 154 18.30/1 Cuvier & Valencien nes Hist. Nat, Poiss. V-Vlll. L 155 1831 Gray Zool. Miscel. 1. 156 1832/41 Bonaparte Icono. d. Fauna Ital. L 157 1833 Cuvier & Valenciennes Hist. Nat. Poiss. IX. 1. 158 1833 l.OW'C Proc. Zool. Soc, Lond. L 159 18.34 Gray Illustr, Ind. Zool. 1 160 18.34 Quoy & Gaimard Voy. Astrolabe. III. 1. 161 18.35 Ruppell Neue Wirbel, Abyssin. L 162 1835/6 Cuvier & Valenciennes Hist. Nal. Poiss. X-XI. 1. 163 18.37 Bennelt Fishes of Ceylon. 1. 164 18.37 Bonaparte Icon. d. Fauna Ital. 111. 1 165 1837 Cuvier & Valenciennes Hist. Nat. Poiss. Xll. 1. 166 18.37 Fries Handl. K, Vet. Ak. Stockh 1 167 18.37 Muller & Henle Ber. Akad. Wiss. Berlin. 1. 168 1837 Smith Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 169 1838 Gray Ann. Nut. Hist. 1. 1, 170 18.38/41 Muller & Henle Syst. Besch. d. Plagiost. L 171 1838 Ruppell Neue Wirbel, Fische. 1. 172 1839/40 Cuvier & Valenciennes Hist. Nal. Poiss. XIH-XV L 173 18.39 Swainson Nat. Hist. Fishes etc. 1 174 18.39 Lowe Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 175 1840 Richardson Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond, Vlll. L, 176 1840 Thompson Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. IV. L 177 1840 Ruppell Neue Wirbel, Fische. L 178 1840 Heekel Ann. Wien. Mus. 11. L 179 1841 Valenciennes Voy. Bonite, Poiss. XV. L 180 1841 Muller & Henle Plagiost. L 181 1842 Jenyns Zool. Voy. Beagle. L 182 1842 Temminck & Schlegel Fauna Jap. L 183 1843 McClelland Calc. Journ. Nat. Hist. IV L 184 184.3 Lowe Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 185 1843 Temminck & Schlegel Fauna Jap. L 186 1844 McClelland Calc. Journ. Nat. Hist. V. L 187 1844 '8 Richardson Voy. Ereh. & Terror. Fish. L 188 1844 Temminck & Schlegel Fauna Jap. L 189 1845 Richardson A M. Nat. Hist. XV. L 190 1845 Temminck & Schlegel Fauna Jap, L 191 1846 Lowe Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. XIV. L 192 1846 Temminck & Schlegel Fauna Jap. L 193 1847 Cuvier & Valenciennes Hist. Nat. Poiss. XX. literature list 495 L 194 1847 Schlcgel Fauna Jap. L 248 1861 Gunther Cat, Fish. B.M. III. L |95 1848 Richardson Voy. Samarang Fish- L 249 1861 Bleeker Proc. Zool. Soc. L |96 1848 Bleekcr Verb. Bat. Gen. L 250 1861 Gunther Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. Vlll. L |97 1849 Ayres Journ. Bost. Soc. Nat- Hist. L 251 1861 (Tastlenau Mem. Poiss. d. I’Af. /\ust. L (98 1849 Blecker Journ. Ind. Arch. lH- L 252 1862 Bleeker Atlas Ichthyol. 1. L |99 1849 Cuvier & Hist. Nat. Poiss. XXH- L 253 1862 Bleeker Versl. Ak. Weten. Amst. Valenciennes XIII. L 200 1850 Schlcgel Fauna Jap. L 254 1862 Gill Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. P^ji. L 201 1850 Cuvier Reg. Anim. III. PoisS- L 255 1862 Couch Fish. Brit. Isle. 1. L 202 1850 Cantor Malay Fish. L 256 1862 Gunther Cat. Fish. B.M. IV, L 203 1851 Bleekcr Nat. Tyd. Ned. Ind- Hill. L 257 1862 Johnson Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 204 1851 Blecker Verb. Bat. Cien. XXIV. L 258 1863 Johnson Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 205 1852 Bleekcr Nat. Tydschr. Ned- L 259 1863 Bleeker Versl. Ak. Vet. Amst. XV. III. L 260 1863 Gill Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. L 206 1852 Bleekcr Verb. Bat. Cien. XXIV. L 261 1863 Poey Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. L 207 1852 Peters Berl. K. Preuss. Ak. W>ss. L 262 1864 Bocage & Diag. Fam. Squal. L 208 1852 Peters Mon. Berl. Ac. Capello L 209 1853 Pappe Synops. Edible Fish. Cape. L 263 1864 Gunther Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 210 1853 Kaup Archiv. Naturg. L 264 1864 Gunther Cat. Fish. Brit. Mus, V. L 21 1 1853 Blecker Verb. Batav. Gen. XXV. L 265 1864 Ciill Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. L 21 2 1853 Blecker Natur. Tydschr. Ned. Ind. L 267 1864 Bleeker Ned. Tydschr. Dierk. 11. IV-Vl. L 268 1864 Bleeker Atlas Ichthyol, IV. L 21 3 1853/4 Poey Mem. Hist. Nat. Cuba. I. L 269 1865 Bleekcr Atlas Ichthyol. V. L 21 4 1854 Cironovius -Syst. ed. Ciray. L 270 1865 Bleeker Nederl. Tydschr. Dierk. L 21 5 1854 Hollard Ann. Sci. Nat. 11. III. L 216 1854 Cironovius Cat. Fish. Brit. Mus. L 271 1865 Kner “Novara” F'ische. L 21 7 1854 Bleekcr Nat. Tyds. Ned. Ind. VI. L 272 1866 Steindachner] S B. Ak. Wiss.|Wien. LIll- L 21 8 1854 Bleekcr Verb. Bat. Gen. XXVI. LIV. L 219 1855 Blecker Nat. Tyds. Ned, Ind. V. L 273 1866 Steindachner Verb. Zool. Bot. Ges. Wien. L 220 1855 Bianeoni Nov. Comm. Inst. Sc, L 274 1866 Johnson Proc. Zool. Soc. Bonon. L 275 1866 Playfair & Fishes of Zanzibar. L 221 1855 Peters in Wiegm. Archiv. M.B. Gunther Ak. Wiss. Berlin, L 276 1866 Pappe Syn. Ed. Fish. Cape G.H. L 222 1855 Kaup Wiegm. Archiv. Naturge. Ed. 2. L 223 1855 Peters M B. Ak. Wiss, Berlin. L 277 1866 Ciunther Cat. Fish. Brit. Mus. VI. L 224 1856 Bleekcr Nat. Tyds. Ned. Ind. X-XII. L 278 1866 Bleeker Fische v. d. Kaap. L 225 1856 Kaup Cat. Apod. Fish. L 279 1866 Kner S.B. Ak. Wiss. Wien. LIV. L 226 1856 Kaup Cat, Lophobr. Fish. L 280 1866 Bleeker Ned. Tyd. Dierk. III. L 227 1856 Blecker Act. Soc. Sci. Ned. Ind. 1. L 281 1866 Bleeker Atlas Ichthyol. VI. L 228 1857 Philippi Wiegm. Archiv. L 283 1867 Day Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 229 1857 Ayres J. Boston. Nat. Hist. Soc. L 284 1867 Gunther Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. f3). VI. XX. L 230 1857 Blecker Act. Soc. Sci. Indo-Neerl. L 285 1867 Ciunther Proc. Zool. Soc. Il-lll. L 287 1867 Steindachner S.B. Ak. Wiss. When. LV. L 23 1 1857 Bleekcr Verb. Batav. Cien. XXVI. L 288 1868 Peters Reise nach Mossamb. L 232 1858 Kaup Wiegm. Arch. Fische. L 233 1858 Ciirard Pac. R.R. Survey. X, L 289 1868 Peters Ber. K. Preuss. Ak. W'iss L 234 1858 Bianeoni Spec. Zool. Mossamb. Berlin. L 235 1858 Kaup Proc. Zool. Soc. L 290 1868 Macdonald & Proc. Zool. Soc. L 236 1858 Kaup Arch. Naturg. XXIV. Barron L 237 1859 Kaup Proc. Zool. Soc. London. L 291 1868 Layard Proc. Zool. Soc. L 238 1859 Ciirard Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad. L 292 1868 Bleeker Versl. Ak. Amsterd. II. L 239 1859 Gill Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad. L 293 1868 Gunther Ann. Mag. Nat, Hist. L 240 1859 Gunther Cat. Fish. Brit. .Museum. 1. L 294 1869 Steindachner' 1 S B. Ak. Wiss. Wien. LX. L 24 1 1859 Weinland Proc. Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist, L 295 1869 Kner Reise d. “Novara” Fische. VI. L 296 1870 Gunther Cat. Fish. Brit. Mus. VIII. L 242 1859 Bleekcr Nat. Tyds. Ned. Ind. XVI- L 297 1870 Klunzinger Verb. Zool. Bot. Ges. Wien. XIX XX. L 243 1860 Kaup Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. L 298 1870 Day Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 244 1860 Bleeker Nat. Tyds. Ned. Ind. XVI- L 299 1870 Steindachner S.B. Ak. Wiss, Wien. LX. XIX. L 300 1870 Gasco Bull. Assoc. Nat. Med. L 245 1860 Bleeker Visch. v.d. Kaap. Napoli. L 246 1860 Bleeker Versl. Ak. Weten. Amst. L 301 1871 Gunther Proc. Zool. Soc. London. XII. L 302 1872 Bleeker Atals Ichthyol. VI. L 247 1860 Gunther Cat. Fish, B.M. II. L 303 1873 Kaup Archiv. f Naturg. 496 LITERATURE LIST L 304 1873 Day Sea Fish, Rep. Append. L 305 1873/5 Gunther Journ. Mus. Godeffroy (Fische Sudsee 1). L 306 1873 Day J. Linn. Soc. Lond. Zool. XL L 307 1873 Sauvage Nouv. Arch. Mus. IX. L 308 1873 Gunther Jour. Mus. Godeffroy L 309 1873 Hutton Tr. N.Z. Instit. V. L 310 1873/6 Bleeker Atlas Ichthyol. VI 1. L 311 1874 Bteeker Versl. Ak. Anist. VIII & XIV. L 312 1875 Hutton Tr. N.Z. Inst. VII L 314 1875 Bleeker Versl. Ak. Amst. XV. L 315 1875 Haly Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. XV. L 316 1875 Bleeker Arch. Neerl. Sci. Nat. X. L 317 1876/81 Gunther Fische d. Sudsee. 11. L 318 1876 Steindachner Ichth. Bcitr. V. L 319 1876 Peters Monatsber. Ak. Wiss. Ber¬ lin. L 321 1876 Bleeker Atlas Ichthyol. VIII. L 322 1876 Gunther .Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (4)‘ XVI 1. L 323 1876 Bleeker Verb. ,Akad. .Amst. XVI. L 324 1876 Hutton Tr. N.Z. Inst. VIII. L 325 1877 Gunther Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (4). XX. L 326 1877 Bleeker .Atlas Ichthyol. IX. L 327 1878 Lutken Ron. Dansk. Videns. Selsk. L 328 1878/88 Day Fishes of India. L 329 1878 Gunther .Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (51. 11. L 330 1878 Collett Forh. Vid. Selsk. Christ. No. 14. L 331 1878 Gill Proc. U.S.N.M. 1. L 332 1879 Bleeker Verb. Akad. Amst. XVIII. L 333 1879 Castlenau Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. 111. Norsk. Nordh. E.xped. Fisk. L 334 1880 Collett L 335 1880 Gunther Study of Fishes. L 336 1880 Gunther Challenger Report. 1. L 337 1880 Lutken Spolia Atlant. L 338 1881 Goode Proc. U.S.N.M. IV. L 339 1881 Goode & Bean Proc. U.S.N M. IV. L 340 1881 Moreau Hist. Nat. Poiss. France, III. L 341 1881 Garman Bull. Mus, Comp. Zool. XXH. L 342 1881 Gunther Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. L 343 1881 Macleay Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. VI. L 344 1881 Goode Proc. U.S.N.M. VI. L 345 1881 Gill Proc. U.S.N.M. VI. L 346 1881 Steindachner Ichth. Beitr. X. 5 B. L 347 1881 Steindachner Ak. Wiss. Wien. LXXXIH. L 348 1882 Steindachner Denk. ak. Wiss. Wien. XLIV. L 349 1882 Steindachner Denk. ak. Wiss. Wien. XLV. L 350 1882. 3 Goode & Bean Mem. Mus. Comp. Zool. Harv. X. L 351 1882'3 Goode & Bean Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. X. L 352 1883 Goode & Bean Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. XH. L 353 1883 Gill Proc. U.S.N.M. V & VI. L 354 1883 Gill & Ryder Proc. U.S.N.M. VI. L 355 1883 Gill Forest and Stream Nov. 8. L 356 1883 Bellotti Atti. Ital. Nat. Milan. XXVL L 357 1883 Dbdcriein Denks. Ak. Wiss. Wien. XLVIII. L 358 1884 Steindachner & Dbderlein Denks. Ak. Wiss. Wien. Xl.VIII. L 359 1884 Ciill Pr. U.S.N.M. VH. L 360 1884 Garman Bull. Essex Inst. XVI. L 361 1885 Goode & Bean Proc. U.S.N.M. VIII. L 362 1885 Fischer .lahrb. Ilamb. Wiss. Anst. 11. Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. X. 1. 363 1885 Ogilby 1. 364 1886 Gunther Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (5). XVIII. L 365 1886 Jordan & Fordice Proc. U.S.N.M. IX. L 366 1887 Boulenger Proc. Zool. Soc. L 367 1887 Gunther Challenger Report XXH. L 368 1887 Moseley Challenger Report. XXH, Append. A. L 369 1888 Day Pishes of India, Supple¬ ment. L 370 1888 Gill Proc. U.S.N.M. XL L 371 1888 Vaillant Fxp. Sci. Trav. et Tabs. L 372 1888 Jordan Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad. L 373 1889 Day Fauna Ind. Fishes. 11. L 374 1889 Gunther Challenger Report. .XXXL L 375 1889 Collett Bull. Soc. Zool. France. XIV. L 376 1889 Alcock J..A. Soc. Beng. l.VIH L 377 1889 Alcock .Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (6). IV, L 378 1889 Perugia Ann. Mus. Civ. Genova. L 379 1890 Alcock Ann. Mag Nat. Hist. (6). VI. L 380 1890 Forbes Tr. N.Z. Inst. XXH. L 381 1890 Gunther Proc. Zool. Soc. L 382 1890 Hutton Tr. N.Z. Insl. XXII. L 383 1891 Sauvage Hist. Nat. Madaga.scar. XVI. L 384 1891 Trimen Proc. Zool. Soc. L 385 1891 Jordan & Davis Rep. US. Fish Comm. 1888. 1, 386 1891 Alcock Ann, Mag Nat. Hist (6). VHI. L 387 1892 Smitt Skand. Fish. 1 L 388 1892 Lutken Spolia Atlantica. L 389 1892 Alcock Illustr. Zool. Invest. Fish. L 390 1892 AlctKk Deep Sea Fish, Ind Mus. L 391 1892 Gilbert Proc. U.S.N.M. XIV. L 392 1894 Goode & Bean Proc. U.S.N.M. XVH. L 393 1894 .Alcock Journ. Asiat. Soc. Bengal. LXIH, Pt. 2. L 394 1895 Goode & Bean Oceanic Ichthyology. L 395 1895 Smitt Skand. Fish. H. L 396 1895 Alcock Illustr. Zool. Invest. Fishes. Pt. III. L 397 1895 Ogilby Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. (2). literature list L398 1895 Boulcnger Cat. Fish. Brit. Mus. Ed. 2. 1 L399 1895 Jordan & Evermann 1 . Proe. Calif. Ac, Sci. L400 1895 Jenkins Proe. Cal. Ae. Sci. 2. V. L40I 1896 Jordan & Evermann Check-list Fishes, 1, 402 1896 Jordan & Evermann U.S.N.M, Bull, XLVIl. 1,403 1896 Jordan & Evermann Fish. Mid. & N, America. 1, 1,404 1896 (ioode & Bean Mem. Mus. Comp. Zool. XXII. L405 1896 Collett Bull. Soe. Zool. France. XXI. 1,406 1896 Collett Res. Camp. Sci. Monaco, Ease. 10. L407 1896 Jordan & EAermann Bull. U.S. Fish. Comm. 1895. 1.408 1896 Aleoek J. Asiat. Soe. Beng. LXV. Pt. 2. 1, 409 1897 Ogilby Proe, Linn, Soe. N.S.W* XXll, L4I0 1897 Ciilbcrt & Cramer Proe, U.S.N.M. XIX. 1.41 1 1897 Weber Zool. Jahrb. Syst. X. 1412 1898 Jordan & Evermann Fish. N. & Mid. America. II. L 4 1 3 1898 Boulenger Mar. Invest. S. Afr. 1. 1414 1898 Jatzow &'l.en/ Voltz. Reise. Abh. Senek Oes. XXI. 1,415 l898,/9 Aleoek Illustr. Zool. Invest. Fishes. 1,416 1899 Evermann & Marsh Rep. U.S. Fish. Comm. XXIV. 1417 1899 Millar Zoologist No. 694. 1418 1899 (iarman Mem. Mus. Comp. Zool XXIV. 1419 1899 Aleoek Cat. Deep-Sea Fish, 2. 1 420 1899 Aleoek Illustr. Zool. Invest. Fish. 1 421 1899 Ogilby Proe. Linn. Soe. N.S.W. XXIV. 1. 422 1899 Boulcnger Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (7). 111. Ann. S.A. Museum. 1. L 42.3 1899 Boulcnger 1. 424 1899 Waite Mem. Austr. Mus. IV. L425 1900 Boulenger Mar. Invest. S. Afr. 1. 1 426 1900 Jordan & Starks Proe. U.S.N.M. XXlll. 1, 427 1900 Jordan & Snyder Proe. U.S.N.M. XXlll. 1 428 1900 W aite Rec. Austr. Mus. 111. 1 429 1900 Steindaehner Denks. Ak. Wiss. Wien. LXX. 1 430 1901 Jordan & Snyder Proe. U.S.N M. XXIIl- XXIV. 1, 43 1 1901 Jordan & Starks Proe. U S N.M. XXIV. 1. 432 1901 Jordan A Snyder J. Coll. Sci. Tokyo. XV. L 433 1901 Jenkins Bull. U.S. Fish Comm. XIX. L434 1902 Steindaehner Denk. Ak. Wiss. Wien. LXXI. L 435 1902 Regan Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (7). X. L 436 1903 Gill Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVl. L 437 1903 Regan Proe. Zool. Soe. 11. L 439 1903 Fowler Proe. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. LV. L 440 1903 Jordan & Evermann Bull. U.S. Fish Comm. XXll. L 441 1903 Jordan & Snyder Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVL L 442 1903 Regan Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (7). Xll. L 443 1903 Jordan & Starks Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVL L 444 1903 Jordan & Fowler Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVL L 445 1903 Jordan Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVL L 446 1903 Jenkins Bull. U.S. Fish Comm. XXll. L 447 1904 Gill Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVH. L 448 1904 Jordan & Snyder Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVIl. L 449 1904 Jordan & Starks Bull. U.S. Fish Comm. XXlll. L 450 1904 Waite Rec. Austr. Mus. 5. No. 3. L 451 1904 Regan Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (7). XIV. L 452 1904 Brauer Zool. Anz. XXVIll. 1. 453 1905 Regan Journ. Bomb. N.H. Soe. XVl. L 454 1905 Regan Proe. Zool. Soe. 11. L 455 1905 Gill Smiths. Misc. Coll. XLVIL L 456 1905 Gill Proe. U.S.N.M. XXVIll. L 457 1905 Sauter Ann. Zool. Jap. V'. L 458 1905 Gilbert Bull. U.S. Fish Comm. 1903. L 459 1905 Lonnberg Swed. Sudpol. Exp. V. L 461 1905 Jordan & Evermann Bull. U.S. Fish Comm. XXlll. L 462 1906 Brauer Wiss. Erg. D. Tiefs. Exp. XV. L 463 1906 Jordan Proe. U.S.N.M. XXX. L 464 1906 Fowler Proe. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. LVlIl. L 465 1906 Bryan Occ. Pap. B.P. Bish. Mus. 11. 4. L 466 1906 Jordan & Starks Proe. U.S.N.M. XXXI. L 467 1906 Antipa Denkschr. .Ak. Wien. LXXlll. L 468 1906 Smith & Pope Proe. U.S.N.M. XXXI. L 469 1907 Schultze Abh. Deut. Seefisch. IX. L 470 1907 Gill Smiths. Misc. Coll. XLVIII. L 471 1907 Stead Add. Fish. Fauna. N.S.W. 1 L 472 1907 Snyder 1 . Proe. U.S.N.M. XXXII. L 473 1907 Jordan Proe. U.S.N.M. XXXII. L 474 1907 Seale & Bean Proe. U.S.N.M. XXXIll. L 475 1907 Lloyd Rec. Ind. Mus. 1. L 476 1907 McCulloch Rec. Austr. Mus. VI. L 477 1907 Waite Rec. Canterb. Mus. 1. L 478 1907 Regan Trans. Linn. Soe. Lond. Xll. L 479 1908 Holt & Byrne Fish Iscl. Sci. Invest. 1906. v L 480 1908 Holt & Byrne Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8). I. 42 498 LITERATURE LIST L 522 1913 Jordan, Tanaka Cat. Fish. Jiipan. & Snyder L 481 1908 Ogil by- L 482 1908 Lloyd L 483 1908 Tanaka L 484 1908 Regan L 485 1908 Regan L 486 1908 Regan L 487 1908 Jungersen 1. 488 1908 Jordan & Richardson L 489 1909 Boulenger L 490 1909 Regan L 491 1909 Duncker L 492 1909 Gill L 493 1909 Lloyd L 494 1909 .Annandale L 495 1910 Annandale (& Jenkins) L 496 1910 C'unningham L 497 1910 Roule L 498 1910 Regan L 499 1910 Gunther L 500 1911 Weber L 501 191 1 Jordan & Thompson L 502 1911 McCulloch L 503 191 1 Waite L 504 191 I Zugmayer L 505 191 1 Regan L 506 191 1 Kendall & Goldsborough L 507 191 1 Snyder L 508 191 1 Ogil by L 509 1912 .Ariola L 510 1912 Pellegrin L 511 1912 Jordan & Thompson L 512 1912 Tanaka L 513 1912 Regan L 514 1912 Radcliffe L 515 1912 Jordan L 516 1912 Snyder L 517 1912 Cliny L 518 1912 Smith & Radcliffe L 519 1912 Duncker L 520 1912 Schmidt L 521 1913 Weber & de Beaufort Proc. Roy. Soc. Queensl. XXL Roc. Ind. Mus. II. .1. Coll. Sci. Tokyo. XXIIl* Proc. Zool. Soc. Fond. 1908. Tr. Linn. Soc. (2). XII. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hi.st. (8). I. Vidensk. Sclsk. Skr. (7). VI. Proc. U.S.N.M. XXXIII. Freshwater Fi.shes olLAfrica. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8). III. Fauna. S.W. .Austral. Pisces. .Ann. Rep. Smiths Inst, for 1908. Mem. Ind. Mus. II. Mem. Ind. Mus. II. Mem. Ind. Mus. III. Proc. Zool. Soc. London. Pt. I. Ann. Instit. Ocean. 1. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. |8) VI, Fische Sudsee. III. Fische Aru u. kei-Ins. Proc. U.S.N.M. XXXIX. Endeavour Fishes. 1. Rec. Canterh. Mus. 1. Res. Camp. Sci. Monaco, fasc, 35. .Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8). VII & V III. Mem. Mus. Comp. Zool. XXVI. Proc. U.S.N.M. XL. Proc. Queensl. Ron . Soc. XXIIL Rec. Men. Pesc. Pa\ia. V 11. Bull. Soc. Zool. France" XXXVII. Proc. U.S.N.M. XLL Fish. Japan. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8). IX. Proc. U.S.N.M. XLL Proc. U.S.N.M. XLII. Proc. U.S.N.M. XLII. Ann. Sta. Aq. Boul. 11. Proc. U.S.N.M. XLlll. Jahrb. Hamb. Wiss Anst XXIX. Vidensk. Med. Nat. f. Kopen. LXIV'. Fish. Ind. Aus. Archip. II. L 523 1913 Regan 1. 524 1913 Regan L 525 1913 Regan L 526 1913 Garni an 1. 527 1913 Weber L 528 1913 Waite L 529 1913 Waite L 5.30 1913 Regan L 531 1913 Ogilby 1- 532 1913 1 ahille 1. 533 1913 Sny der 1, 534 1914 McCulloch 1 535 1914 Regan L 536 1914 Regan I. 537 1914 Pellegrin L 538 1915 Duncker L 539 1915 Roule L 540 1915 Ogilby L .541 1915 McCulloch 1 .M2 1915 McCulloch L .M3 1915 Ribeiro 1. 544 1916 Weber iV de Beaufort L .M5 1916 Boulenger 1. 546 1916 Regan L 547 1916 Regan L 548 1916 Ogilby A McCulloch L. 549 1916 McCulloch L 550 1917 Regan L 551 1917 Seale L 552 1917 Jordan A Starks L 553 1917 McCulliKh 1. 554 1917 Jordan & Hubbs 1- 555 1917 Gilbert L 556 1918 Joubin A Roule L 557 1918 F owler L 558 1918 Fowler L 559 1918 F-age L 560 1918 Nichols L 561 1918 Ogilby L 562 1918 Schmidt L 563 1918 Regan L 564 1918 Roule Ann. Mtig. Nat. Hist. (8), XI. Ann. M;ig. Nat. Hist. (8). XII. Frans. Roy. Soc. Fdin. XL. Mem. Mus. Comp. Zool. Harv. XXXVI. Siboga Fxp. Fishes. LXV. Rec. Ciinterb. Mus. H. Frans. N.Z. Inst. XLV. Proc. Zool. Soc. I-ond. 11. Mem. Queensl. Mus. 11. An. Mus. Nac. Beun. Aires. XXIV. Proc. U.S.N.M. XLIV. I ndeav. Res. Fishes. IF Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8). XIII. Lena Nova L\p. Zool. 1. Bull. Soc. Zool. France. XXXIX. Jahrb. Hamb. Wiss. Anst. Bull. Mus. Paris. Mem. Queensl. Mus. III. Fndcavour Sci. Res. III. Proc. I inn. Sex.'. N.S.VV. XI Arch. Mus Nac. Rio d. Jan. XVII. Fish. Indo-.Aus. Archip. III. F \V. Fish. Africa. IV. Ann. Mag Nat Mist (8). X\ III. Brit. Anttirc. Fxp. Zool. I. Mem (JueensI Mus. V. I ndeuN. Sci. Res. IV. .Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8). XIX. Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. 1 XL Ann. Cam. Mus. XL Rec. .Austr. Mus XL Ann. ( tirn. Mus XL Smithsonian Misc. Coll. Bull. I'lnst. ()c. Monaco. ,348. Prix. Ac Nat. .Sci. Phil. LXX Copeia. 58. Dan. Ocean. Lxp. 11. Bull. .Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. XXXVIII. Mem. Queensl. Mus. VI. Dan. Ocean. F-xp. 11. Proc. Zool. Soc. F ond. I. Bull, rinst. Oc. Monaco. 345. literature list L 565 1919 Jordan Ann, Cam. Mus. XII L 566 1919 Roule Res. Sci. Monaco. Lll. L 567 1919 Jordan & Hubbs Stanford Univ. Publ. L 568 1919 Fowler I'roc. U.S.N.M. Lvi L 56y 1920 Nichols Bull. Amcr. Mus. Nat His'- XLII, L 570 1920 McCulloch Rec. Austr. Mus. XIII. L_ 571 1920 Ciilberl & Hubbs U.S.N.M Bull. 100. 1. L 572 1921 Regan Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist, (^K VII. L 573 1921 Waite Rec. S. Austr. Mus. IF L 574 1921 McCulloch Mem. Oueensl. Mus. VII L. 575 1921 Weber & dc Beaufort Zool. Meeded. V|, L 576 1921 Waite & Hale Rec. S. Austr Mus. 1. L 577 1921 Waite Rec. S. Austr. Mus. II L 578 1922 McCulloch Austr. Zool. 11. L 579 1922 Weber & do Beaufort Fish Indo-Aus, Archip. L 580 1922 Norman Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. <^) IX. 1. 58 1 1922 Jordan & Jordan Mem. Cam. Mus. X. L 582 1 923 Ahl Arch. Naturg. Berl. Akt. A. [, XXXIX. L 58 3 1923 Meek & Hildebrand 1 ield Mus. Nat. Hist. .XV. L 584 1923 McCulloch Rec. Austr. Mus. XIV, L 585 1923 Jordan Cla.ssif. Fish, L 586 1923 I’ellegrin Roiss. Fau. douc, I'Afr. Oex'- 1 587 1923 Nichols Amer. Mus. Nov. 94. 1 588 1924 Roule & Herlin Bull. Mus. d'Hist. Nat. Poiss, 1 L 589 1924 W akiyu Ann. Cam. Mus. XV. 1 590 1924 McCulloch Mem. Queensl. Mus. VIII. 59 1 1924 ( habanaud Bull. Soc. Zool. France. XFIX 1. 592 1924 flora Mem. As Soc. Beng. VI, L 59 3 1924 flora Rec. Ind Museum. XXVI. 1 594 1925 low ler J. Bomb Nat. Hist. Soc XXX 1 595 1925 Jordan & Hubbs Mem. C am. Mus. ,\. 1 596 1925 Meek & Hildebrand Field Mus, Nat. Hist. X\ . L 597 1925 Chahanauel Bull. StK Zool. France. L. 1. 59X 1925 Jordan PrtK. L .S.N M LXV I. L 594 1925 Schmidi Kgl. Dansk Videns. Selsk. Skr. (H). X. 1 600 1926 McCulUx:h Rec. Austr Mus. X\ . 1 601 1926 Jordan & F.verman n Occ. Pap Calif. Ac. Sci. XII 1 602 1926 Hora Rec Ind Mus. XXV III 1 603 1926 Norman PrtK. Zool. Soc. I 604 1926 Met ulloch Biol. Res. Fndeav \ . 1 605 1926 Regan Dana. F.\p. No. 2 L 606 1927 Herre Phil. Journ. Sci. XXXIV. 1 607 1927 Herre & Montalhan Phil. Journ. Sci. XXXIV. L 608 1927 Chabanaucl Bull. Inst. Oc. Mon. 488. L 609 1927 Griffin Trans. N.Z. Inst. LVIH. L 610 1927 Fowler Bern. P. Bish, Mus. Bull. 38. L 61 1 1928 Griffin Trans. N.Z. |nst. FIX. L 612 1928 Parr Bull. Bing, Ocean. Coll. III. L 613 1928 Fowler Mem. Bish. Mus. X. L 614 1928 Fowler & Bean U.S.N.M. Bull. 100. Vll. L 615 1929 Fowler & Bean U.S.N.M. Bull. 100. Vlll. F 616 1929 Weber & de Beaufort Fish. Indo-Aus. Archip. V. F 617 1929 Regan & Trewavas Dana. Fxp. No. 5. L 618 1930 Fowler & Bean U.S.N.M. Bull. 100. X. L 619 1930 Norman Discovery Rep. II. F 620 1930 Chabanaud Bull. Inst, Oc. Monaco. 550. F 621 1930 Regan & Trewavas Dana Exp. No. 6. L 622 1931 Schnackenbeck Mitt. Zool. Mus. Hamb. FXIV. F 623 1931 Weber & de Beaufort Fish. Indo-Aus. Archip. VI. F 624 1931 Borodin Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. Harv. LXXH. F 625 1931 Norman Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (10). VIIF F 626 1931 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. FXXXIM. L 627 1931 Fowler Mem. Bish. Mus. XF 5. F 628 1931 Fowler U.S.N.M. Bull. 100 XF F 629 1932 Fowler Bern. P. Bish. Mus. Occ. Pap. IX. L 630 1932 Borodin Bull. Vand. Mar. Mus. 1. L 631 1932 Griffin Rec. Auck. Inst. Mus. 1. L 632 1932 Regan & Trewavas Carlsberg. Ocean. Exp. No. 2. L 633 1932 Fbina Journ. Imp. Inst. Tokyo. XXVII. F 634 1932 •Matsubara & Hiyama Journ. Imp. Inst. Tokyo. XXVIH. F 635 1933 Fowler U.S.N.M, Bull. 100. XIF F 636 1933 Hubbs Michigan Acad. Sci. XVH. F 637 1933 van Straelen Res. Sc. Voy. Ind. Or. Need. V. F 638 1933 Weed Field Mus. Nat. Hist. XX. 1, 639 1934 Fowler Mem. BisFi. Mus. XF 6. 1. 640 1934 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. FXXXVI. F 641 1934 Von Bonde .Annals Nat. Mus. VIF F 642 1934 Fge Carlsberg. Oc. Exp. Dana. Rep. 5. F 643 1934 Norman Monograph Flatfishes. 1. F 644 1935 Norman Discovery Reports. XIF F 645 1935 Norman Proc. Zool. Soc. Fond. 1. F 646 1935 Fraser-Brunner Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (10). XV. F 647 1935 Fraser-Brunner Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (101. XVF 1. 648 1935 Norman Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (10), XVF F 649 1935 Norman Ann. S.A. Mus. XXXH. F 650 1935 Pellegrin .Ann. d. I'Assoc. d. Nat, F-P. XXIF F 651 1935 W hitlev Rec. Austr. Mus. XIX. F 652 1935 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. FXXXVIl. Pi. VI. F 653 1935 Bruun Atlantic Flying Fishes. 500 LITERATURE LIST L 654 1935 Hubbs Smithsonian Rep. 1933. L 655 1936 Kowler Bull. Amer. Mus. Nat Hist. LXX. L 656 1936 Whitley Mem. Quecnsl. Mus. XL L 657 1936 Tomiyania Jap. Journ. Zool. VII. L 657(1 ' 1936 Matsubara Journ. Imp. F'ish. Inst. Tokyo. XXXI. L 658 1936 Pollcgrin Bull. d. I'Acad. Malg. XVIII. L 659 1936 Cifcgory & Conrad Amer. Natur. LXX. L 660 1936 Weber & dc Beaufort Fish. Indo-Aus. Archip. VII. L 661 1936 Svetovidov Faune d. I'Urss. Poiss. VI. 9. L 662 1937 Myers Proc. U.S.N.M. LXXXIV. L 663 1937 Herrc & Myers Bull. Raff. Mus. Singap. 13. .1. Imp. Fish. Inst. XXXII. L 664 1937 Matsubara L 665 1937 Kamohara Annot. Zool. Jap. XVI. L 666 1937 Kamo ha ra Zool. Mag. Jap. XLIX. L 667 1937 White .Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. LX.XIV. L 668 1937 Whitley Mem. Queensl. Mus. XL L 669 1937 Bruim Carlsberg. Oc. Exp. Dana. Rep. 9. L 670 1937 Myers Proc. U.S.N.M. LXXXIV. 3008. L 671 1937 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. LXXXIX. Pt. VIII. L 672 1937 Peao Lopes Fauna llha Inhaca. L 673 1937 Gregory & Conrad Amer. Mus. Novit. 952. L 674 1937 Mohr Carlsberg. Ocean. Exp. 13. L 675 1938 Pietsehmann Bern. P. Bish. Mus. Bull. 156 L 676 1938 Fraser- Brunner .Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (III. II. Proc. U.S.N.M. LXXXV. 3038. L 677 1938 Schultz L 678 1938 Hubbs Occ. Pap. Mus. Zool. 374. L 679 1938 Whitley Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. LXIII. L 680 1938 Matsubara Journ. Imp. Fish. Inst. Tokyo. XXXIII. L 681 1938 Fraser-Brunner Aquar. & Pond-Keep. \ lll. L 682 1938 Fowler Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. Fish. Bull. 1. L 683 1938 Peao Lopes Fauna llha Inhaca. L 684 1939 Norman & Trewavas Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (11). III. L 685 1939 Springer Proc. U.S.N.M. LXXXVI. 3058. L 686 1939 Kuronuma Bull. Biogeo. Soc. Jap. IX. L 687 1939 Matsubara Bull. Biogeo. Soc. Jap. IX. L 688 1939 Ikeda Trans. Biogeo. Soc. Jap. III. L 689 1939 Okada & Ikeda Trans. Biogeo. Soc. Jap. I I 1 L 690 1939 Rasen Bull. Am. IMus. Nat. Hist. l.XXVI. L 691 1939 Flerre Rcc. Ind. Mus. XLI. L 692 1939 Bolin Stan. Ichth. Bull, 1. L 693 1939 Fow’ler Not. Nat. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. L 694 1939 Herre Phil. Journ. Sci. LXX. L 695 1939 Norman John Murray Exp. VII 1. 696 1940 Fraser-Brunner Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (11). V. L 697 1940 Fowler U.S.N.M. Hull. 100. XIH. L 698 1940 Whitley A list r. Zool. IX. L 699 1940 Whitley Fishes Austr. Sharks. L 700 1940 Kuronuma Bull. Biogeo. Soc. Jap. X. L 701 1940 Herre Phil, Journ Sci. LXXIII , L 702 1 940 F'raser-Brunner Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (ID VI. 1. 703 1940 Weber & de Beaufort Fish. lndo-,Aus. Archip VIH. L 704 1940 Fowler Proc. Am. Phil. Soc. LXXXII L 705 1941 Whitley , Austr. Zool. .X. L 706 1941 Fraser-Brunner Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (ID VIE L 707 1941 Fraser- B ru nner Ann, Mag. Nat. Hist. (ID. VIII 1. 708 1941 Fowler Proc. U S N M, XC. 3106, 1. 709 1941 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phill XCIII L 710 1942 Munro Proc. Roy. Soc. Queens LIV. L 71 1 1943 Norman Ann. Mag Nat. Hist. ( 1 !)■ X. L 712 1943 Fraser-Brunner Ann Mag Nat. Hist. (ID. X L 713 1943 Whitley Austr. Coun. Sci. Ind. Res. Bull. 159. L 714 1943 Munro Mem. Queens, Mus, ,XH. L 715 1943 Schultz U.S.N.M. Bull. 180. 1. 716 1944 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. .Sci Phil XCVI. L 718 1944 Hubbs Copeia. No. 3. L 719 1945 Miller Proc. U S.N M. XCVI. 3195. L 720 1945 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phil. XCVII L 721 1945 Hubbs & Clark Calif. Fish & tiame. XXXI L 722 1946 Schultz Proc. U.S.N ,M XCVI. 3204. L 723 1946 Fowler Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci Phil. XCVIH L 724 1947 Breder & Clark Bull. U S. Mus Nat. Hist 1 XXXVIII APPENDIX DETERMINATION OF AGE IN FISHES It is not always possible to determine the age of any fish, partly because it is difficult to keep fishes alive under observation in restricted waters for any considerable time. There are, however, two methods which give some indication of age for many fishes. The number of scales on a fish is more or less constant through its life, and scales increase in size with the growth of the fish, mainly by the addition of new material round the margin. Like most natural processes this is not regular but periodic, so that most scales have a clearly visible series of fine annular rings, termed “ circuli ”. The addition of bony matter to scales is related to the rate of growth of the fish as a whole, which depends on temperature and food. Usually spring and early summer favour rapid growth, while the rate slows down considerably in winter. In the scales this is reflected in the circuli, which are wide-set and numerous when growth is rapid, and fewer and close-set when the bodily processes slow down. In many cases individual scales show these variations clearly as zones, and indeed the expert can deduce much about the life of a fish from its scales. Where seasonal changes are not appreciable, as in the depths or near the equator, these variations are naturally not so clearly marked. Fig. T. shows a scale of a “Springer” (No. 877). This indicates that the fish hatched probably about August, had a normal life, the 3rd year being a trifle better than the others, and that it was killed during a period of rapid growth, prob¬ ably about December, at the age of approximately 4| years. Another organ that is used in age determination is a solid isolated structure suspended in the auditory system, known as Otolith or Earbone. Otoliths vary widely in structure, but are more or less constant in form and charac¬ teristic in any one species. Fig. U. shows the otoliths of CEPHALUS Linn, some of our fishes. the end of each year of life. Fig. U. Otoliths of South African Fishes, all about IJ times actual size. I. — Musselcracker, No. 719, 55 lbs., age about 9 years. 2. — Black Sea Bass, No. 447, 400 lbs. 3. — Spotted Grunter, No. 679, 1 1 lbs. 4. — Rock Salmon, No. 664, 4 lbs. 5. — Kabeljou, No. 552, 25 lbs. 6. — Shad or Elf, No. 547, 20 lbs. The weight is that of the fish from which each was taken. Otoliths grow by the external deposition of their substance. When cut across and polished they show rings of growth much like those of a scale (or of a tree), from which the age of the fish may be read. 501 502 APPENDIX-NOTE ON MUSSELCRACKERS In our waters few scales ever indicate more than about 12 years of normal growth. Probably many fishes live longer than that, but while most apparently never stop growing, the rate decreases with age. The later years therefore do not show clearly in scales or otoliths. It is doubtful whether any fish can ever reach an age of the order of 100 years. There are so many destructive bacteria, fungoid growths ;md llesh-burrowing parasites, that the smallest scrape on an old fish means death in a short time. Most large Sharks probably die that way. Some typical age determinations on our fishes are : Galjoen (No. 644), length 14 ins., age 4 years. bronze Bream (No. 738), length 14 ins., age 4 years. Musselcracker (No. 719), length 10 ins., age 2 years. Springer (No. 877), length 16 ins., age 4 years. ,, ,, length 40 ins., age 8 years. I'reshwater Springer ( No. 890), length 10 ins., age 4 years. Roman (No. 721), length 15 ins., age 6 years. Note on MUSSELCRACKERS The name " Musselcracker ” is applied in South Africa mtiinly to 2 fishes, Sparodon durhanensis (No. 711), and Cymatoceps nasiitiis (No. 719), both of which develop massive jaws and powerful teeth. Being hirgely littoral, and both penetrating often to absurdly shallow water in search of food, these tire probably the premier two large angling shore-fishes of South Africa. As will be seen from the main text (Nos. 711 and 719), each bears numerous common names. In both species the young differ markedly from the adults, being more colourful. Cymatoceps nasutus (No. 719) grows to be well over 1(X) lbs., while Sparodon dnrbancn.sis (No. 711) rarely exceeds 40 lbs. As the descriptions and illustrations given in this volume show, these two fishes need never be confused at any stage. Nevertheless, anglers are often puzzled about them and argue at eross purposes. They nitty at any time easily be distinguished by the dentition alone, which is illustrated below. 2 Fig. V. Dentition of Mussetcrackers. t. — Sparodon durhanensis (No. 711). 2. Cvmaioceps nasutus (No. 719). ADDITIONAL SPECIES Family HETERODONTIDAE 4a. HETF'RODONTUS species. A specimen recently captured off Inhambane falls in this genus. 2 ft. •n length it is obviously a juvenile, the teeth being pentacuspid. No Shark of this family with spotted colouration has been recorded from nearer than the eastern Pacific. At the time of going to press it has not been possible to examine the .specimen, the figure available being shown on Plate 97, p. 413. Family RHIMDAE Depressed body with rounded snout and elongated caudal portion. Rounded teeth in an undulated scroll in each jaw. Spiracles large, close to eyes. 2 dorsal fins. Caudal well developed. The single genus Rhina Schneider, with one species of the Indo-Pacific. 59a. RHINA A.NCVT.OSTO.MA Schneider. Mud-skate. Literature L 127, 159, 180, 328, 697. Kig. sya. RHISA AS'CYLOSTOMA Schn. Actual length 7 ft. Mouth on right. About 75 transverse rows of 22 25 rounded teeth, largest on summit of undulations. No folds on spiracle. Tubercles on head ridges of varying size intermingled, some quite large. Brownish, sometimes light spots. ■Attains at least 8 ft. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Kosi Bay. A scavenger of shallow water. Despite the repulsive appearance the flesh is good. Family AETOB.ATID.4E Genus Rhinoptera Cuvier, genotype Myliobatis marginata St. Hilaire. Head projects beyond disc. Snout in 2 separate lobes, and a separate flap-like rostral fin each side (see Fig. 77a). Several species of shallow tropical seas, one in our area. 503 504 APPENDIX Dg. 77a. RHI\’OPri;ii,t J,tl AMCA M. H. Actual vxkilh 26 ins. Teeth in flattened pavement (shown in Pig. 77a), 7 rows in each jaw. .Spiracles large, close behind eye. Skin smooth. Caudal spine serrate. Liver-brown above. Attains ?> It. width. Ccntrtil tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay. Family TR \( HIP l ERIDAI. 264b. TRACHIPIF.RIIS species. See p. 141. The figure below illustrates a juvenile specimen, 4i ins. long, with end of tail bitten oil', found at Xora VloLith, Transkei. Note the tubercles along the lower mtirgin ol the belly, ttnd the spines on the fin-rtiys. Fig. 264b. TRACHIl’TEKiS species. Juvenile at 4.1 ins. Family HOLOCEM RIDAK 298a. M^RIPRISIIS .ADL’.STIS Bleeker. Literature L 212 616 Plate 45 p 249 T ^ Tr. .1/7. 26-27 'jili:rikcr,. Auains 10 ins 1 topical Indo-Pacific, about reefs, reaches Delagoa Bay, not abundant. Family SKRRAMDAK 425a. CEPHALOPHOLIS PACHVCENTRON (Cuvier). [Serranus pachycentron, or gutUUus Cuv., or mtcropnon mkv .] Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 152, 196, 310, 613, 623. Plate 102, p. 430. D IX 15-17. A 111 8. L.l. about 85. Tr. 9,30. About 10 short gill-rakers with 6 knobs m front. Colour brownish, cross-bars usually faint. Attains 10 ins. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay, not uncommon. 77a. RHINOPI'ERA JAVANICA Muller & Henic. Elap-ray. Literature L 180, 296, 328, 697. APPENDIX S05 PLATE 103 1099a. Leiuranus semicmdus, 26 ins. 1120. £M/na zebra, 13 ins. 1121. Echidna polyozona, above at 14 ins., below 22 ins. 1131. Siderea picta, 18 ins. 1131a. Skterea schonlandi, 18 ms. 506 APPENDIX 440a. EPINEPHELUS MACROSPILOS (Bleeker). Rock-cod. Garrupa. Literature L 310, 311. Previously wrongly identified with Epinephelus corallico/a Val. Plate 19, p. 196. Depth about 3. D XI 15 -16. A 111 8. About 100 series of scales, about 18 above L.I., all difficult to count. 11 gill-rakers plus 5 anterior knobs. Attains 15 ins. Central tropical Indo-F’acitic, reaches Natal, not common in our area. Family APOCJONIDAE 479a. APOGON CAMPBELLI Smith. Literature L 90. Plate 97, p. 413. Depth about 22. D Vl-f I 9. ,A II 8. L.l. 25 26. Tr. 3/9. 12 gill-rakers, front 5 knob-like. Uniform scarlet, edges of scales on back dusky. Attains 2 ins. Obtained by blasting at reefs off Delagoa Bay. Rare. Family CARAN(;iI)AE 539. HYP.\C.\NTHUS .\MIA (Linn.). The predatory and voracious nature of this fish shows from the earliest stages. The colourful young, 2-4 ins. in length, may be seen from October onwards in shallow water in estuaries, where they pursue, catch, and swallow whole the young of other fishes, sometimes not much smaller than themselves. In groups of 2 or 3 they even appear to herd young Mullets for consumption at leisure. The figure (Plate 97, p. 413) shows one found dying which had swallowed as much as could be forced in of an Atherine (No. 893) not much smaller than itself, being suffocated in the process. Family CHAE LODON I IOAE 605a. CHAETODON BENNETTl Cuvier. Literature L 154, 247, 275, .308, 326, 613, 615, 660. Depth about IJ. D XIV 17 18. A III 15 16. .About 42 series of scales, about 35 tubular. Tr. 9/19. 13 14 gill-rakers. .Attains 8 ins. Brilliant yellow with faint lines along .scale rows. A dark bar with faint blue margins through eye. A large brownish blotch with light blue margin on L.l. above anal spines. Bases of anal and dorsal, front of caudal peduncle and a bar across caudal dusky orange. Immediately recognisable by 2 diverging blue lines, starting at origin of L.l. and curving down and back, one above and one below pectoral base, both ending above anal spines. Widespread in the tropical Indo-F’acific, reaches Delagoa Bay. 605b. CM.AETODON 1 RIF.ASCI.ALIS Quoy & Gaimard. IC/uit'lodon xtrii’ani’iilus Qmc\., or irianpukiris Rupp., or hifasciatus Cuv.]. Literature L 147, 150, 154. 247, 275, 615, 660. Plate 102, p. 4.30. Depth about l^. D XIV 15 17. A IV-V 15 16. I..L about 25. Tr. 8 12. .About 20 gill-rakers. .Attains 6 ins. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, has been found at Inhaca Island Family POMADA.SVIDAE 679. POM.AD.AS^S OPERCIL.ARE (Playfair). This tropical fish penetrates southwards as far as Knysna, but only in the summer in the warm estuarine water (sec p. 258). In “ The South African Region " (p. 10), the view was expressed that in earlier times sub-tropical fishes were likely to have reached the region of the Cape. This has received confirmation by the discovery in the kitchen deposits of primitive man about Hermanus and False Bay of numbers of the enlarged supra-occipital bones of P. opcrcularc, which can be, geologically, only quite recent, probably less than 5,000 years old. This is a clear indication that since the termination of the last glaciation there was a time when the seas of the Cape were warmer than at present (see p. 10). P. opercu/are is not rock-haunting so that it would not have been a normal catch in primitive stone traps. It might sometimes have been taken in brushwood tidal traps on estuarine flats. This is an e.xtrcmely wary and cunning fish so that it would not normally have been taken by spearing or primitive fishing. Those obtained by early man about the Cape were likely killed by onsets of cold water, much as happens from Knysna eastwards to-day. The enlargement and thickening of a bone is termed “ Hyperostosis In fishes it has been observed chiefly in the supra-occipital, which is the bony crest along the top of the skull. W'hile most fishes do not show this, in some (e.g. No. 725) it occurs only in males, whereas in P. operculare it develops from an early age in both sexes- appendix 507 Family AMPHIPRIONIDAE ■Mfia. CHROMIS DI.MIDIATUS (Klunzinger). Literature L 317, 458, 614 Plate 51 p 286 r”Tr? T:' < in l!' ‘^Tr ^. 20-2. tropic'll Ini T dark areas variable, always sharply contrasted. Attains 3J ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, cast coast of Africa, to Zululand, about reefs. Family I.ABRIDAE 55 j3^794 *^AWARIN (Blecker). Literature L 205, 252, 253, 256, 499, 613, 703. Plate r ‘ gill-rakers. Canine in angle of Island ' ^ Attains 5 ms. Widespread but rare in the tropical Indo-Pacific, found at Inhaca Family GOBHDAE / 1 MYS PAPL'ENSLS (Cuvier). [Gohius papuen.sis, or petersenii Stndnr., Gohionellus loncfiotus Jnkns.]. Literature L 165, 446, 527, 657. t ig. 913a. O X YU RIC HTH YS PAPUESSIS (Cuv.), Actual length 7 ins. Oepth about 51. D VI ■ 1 12. A I 13. About 80 series of scales. Live colours not known. Often extensively spotted, especially anteriorly. .Attains 9 ins. Tropical Pacific, found also at Delagoa Bay. 923a. (lOBlLJS INH.\C2\ Smith. Literature L 90. Plate 101, p. 423. Oepth about 4. D \'I • I 10 11. A I 8. 27 28 series of scales. Tr. 14-16. Scales on head to above eyes. Attains IJ ins. Rock pools of Inhaca Island. Juveniles with several light bars across body. Easily recognisable by reticulate appearance of body. Family PERIOPHTMAl.MIDAE 935a. IIF. I EKELEO I RLS ELTJENIL.S (Jordan & Evermann). \Gohiomorphus or Quisquilius eugenius, or projumlus Wbr.]. Literature L 440. 461, 527, 657. Plate 101, p. 423. lAepth about 4. D VI ■ 1 10 II. A I 8 9. 30 34 series of scales. Tr. about 18. Usually brownish. Attains 2 ins. Widespread in the tropical Pacific, shore to deeper water, not uncommon at Inhaca Island, in rock pools. Family BLENMIDAE 956a. OMOBRANCHUS DEALMEIDA Smith. Literature L 90. Plate 76, p. 344. Depth about 5|. D 33. A 24. Lower canines moderate. Translucent iridescent body, line behind eye coruscating blue. Attains 2 ins. Known only from Ponte Maone, Delagoa Bay, under stones. 508 APPENDIX Family SALARIIDAE 970a. AL'I'ICOPS (JIBBIFRONS (Qiioy & Gaimard). [Salarins i^ihhi/rons] Skipper. Literature L H6, 162, 248, 694. Plate 75, p. 342. Depth about 5. D XIII 18-20. A 19-20. No tentacles at nape. Small curved canine each side of lower jaw. Attains 4 ins. Central tropical Indo-Pacific, e.xtends to Inhaca Island, in rock pools. Most agile, Jumps well. 973a. H.AFMABI, ENNIUS M.\RM()R.\TIIS (Bennett). [Salarias manuonitus]. Skipper, l.iteralurc L 162, 248. 694. Plate 75, p. 342. Depth about 5. DXII -XIII 14 16. A 15-17. .4 small tentacle each side at nape. No canine.s. Upper lip crenulate. Sometimes cross-bars. .Attains 4 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacilic. not uncommon in rock pools at Inhambane. Family SCORPAENIDAE .4 key to the 5 species of the genus Pterois Cinier known from our area is as follows: .4. 9 soft dorsal rays . nuwiiinis (1046) B. 10-12 soft dorsal rays. 1. Black spots on caudal. (a) 12 dorsal spines . unlauuitu (l()46a) (h) 13 dorsal spines. (i) Long tentacle above eye . volitiins (1047) (ii) No or short tentacle above eye . mites {1047a) 2. No spots on caudal . russe/lii (1048) 1046a. PTEROIS ANTENN.ATA (Bloch). Fireworksfish. Devilfish. Literature I 90,117.152,326,610, 613. Plate 102, p. 430. Depth about 22. D .Xll 11-12. .4 III 6. L.l. about 55. 8 short gill-rakers. .Attains 9 ins. Tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay. 1047a. PTEROIS .MILES (Bennett). Fireworksfish. Devilfish. Literature 1. 90, 163, 328, 61 3. Depth about 2g, D XIII 10-12. A III 6-7. .About 85 .series of scales, about 1 1 above L.L Line scales between eyes. No tentacle above eye, but a small flap on iris above. Skinny flaps at head, largest above maxilla. P 13-14, only 4 upper rays free, does not reach caudal base. Ridge along cheek highly spinate. 9 short gill-rakers. Scarlet with numerous dark cross-bars from snout to caudal base." Soft dorsal, anal and caudal spotted. Pectoral mainly black, some red areas, notably tips of upper ravs. A white spot above axil. Attains 12 ins. Tropical Indian Ocean, reaches Port Alfred. ^amlly MOKINGLIDAE Distinguished from all other eels by having the anus in the posterior third or fourth of the total length Elongate cylindrical body. Dorsal and anal feeble. Pectorals feeble or absent. Small conical recurved teeth in one series in each Jaw and on vomer. Degenerate eels of one genus, Moringua Grav, eenotvpe Morimiuc. lateralis Gray, with a few species of the Indo-Pacific, I in our area, 1094a. MORINGUA J.A\ANICA (Kaup). [Moringua hanaiiensis Snyder], Literature L 225, 268, 461. 499, 544, Juvenile on Plate 100, p. 420. I09.ta Fig. 1094a. MORISGUA JAVANICA (Kaup). Actual length aIi APPENDIX 509 Head 7-10 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Distance from vent to tip of tail about i total length. Eye minute. Lower jaw longer, mouth extends well behind eye. Dorsal and anal virtually obsolete. Pectorals minute. The young are brilliantly coloured, the adults greyish. Attains at least 4 ft. Central tropical Indo- Pacific, extends to Delagoa Bay, among rocks and in sand. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family OPHICHTHIDAE A revised key to genera incorporating those below is as follows: A. No pectorals . Cacew/a (p. 388) B. f^ectorals present. I. Teeth blunt or granular. (a) f'ringe of fine barbels on upper lip ... ... ... ... ... Cirrhimuraena ip. 2^9) (b) No barbels on upper lip. (x) No vomerine teeth ... . ... ... ... ... ... Leiuratius ip. 5W) (y) Vomerine teeth present. (i) [Dorsal origin before gill-opening ... ... ... ... ... .Myrichthys (p. 5W) (ii) [Dorsal origin behind gill-opening ... ... ... Pi.soclonophi.s (pp. 'i%9, 5\0) 1. Teeth sharp. Follow key on p. 388. j (jenus Feiuranus Bleeker, genotype the single species. Small pectorals present. Snout projects beyond mouth. Teeth feeble, blunt, none on vomer. One species, tropical Indo-Pacific. 1099a. I.KIl KANTS SEMICINCTLS (Lay & Bennett). Literature L 211, 268. 461, 499, 544. Plate 103, p. 505. Head about 6 7 in distance from snout tip to vent. Snout about twice eye. Mouth extends behind eye. [Dorsal originates close behind gill-opening. Ground colour pure white or faint ivory to yellow. Attains at least 3 ft. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon about Delagoa Bay, one found I at Knysna. Timid but agile. Lives mainly in sand, burrows rapidly tail first. Startling to see the contrasted j black and white body appear in and move through the sand. Genus Myrichthys Girard, genotype \1 yrichthys macuh.sm Cuvier. Small pectorals present. Snout projects beyond mouth. Teeth feeble, blunt, some on vomer. .A few species of tropical waters, one in our area. l()99b. MD KICH fin s COl.l BRINLS (Boddaert). [Ophisurm fasciatu.s Rich., or coluhrinus]. Literature L 120. 147, 268. 328. 499, 544, Head about 8 in distance from snout tip to vent. Snout about twice eye. Dorsal originates far forward on head, ends well before tip of tail. Ground colour variable, mostly creamy, rings dark brown, sometimes spots between. Attains at least 3 ft. Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific, reaches Delagoa Bay. Agile, lives mainly in sand and in crevices about reefs. 510 APPENDIX llOOa. PISODONOPMIS CANCRIX'ORLIS (Richardson), [Ophisunis or Ophichthys cancrivorus, or schaapi Blkr., or hrachysoma BIkr.]. Literature L 187, 211. 268, 296, 499. 544, Hg. llOOa, /•ISODOSO/’HIS C t.SC KH ORL S (Rich.), Aclual length 28 ins. Vent to tip of tail H time.s as long as vent to snout tip. Hetid tibout 2j; 3 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Snout projects beyond mouth, which reaches behind eye. Dorsal originates above pectorals. Cireyish brown above, lighter below. Dorsal with tine black margin. Attains ;it letist 3 ft. Widespread in the central tropical Indo-Pacific, not uncommon about Delagoa Bay. Strong and active, lives mainly in sand, burrows rapidly tail first. V^alued as food by natives. Easily distinguished from No. 1100 by the anterior insertion of the dorsal. 1101a. OPHICHTHI S POLVOPH 1 IIAI.MI S Bleeker. Literature 1. 267, 268. Plate 10(1, p. 420. Head about 5 in distance from gill-opening to vent. Vent about midway between tip of tail and gill¬ opening. Eye about 2 in snout, which extends beyond mouth. Mouth to behind eye. Dorsal originates above pectoral. .Attains oxer 20 ins. Known from the tropical Pacific, rare, has been taken otL Delagoa Bay. For full information about any fish turn back to Genus and Family and read there also. Family EC HIDMDAE 1124a. lACODONlIS GOl.DSBOROl'Gtll (.Iordan & Exermann). [dyntiiorliorii.x yoldshoroiiylii]. Literature L 440. 461. Plate 100, p. 420. Head about 3| in distance from snout tip to xent. xvhich is about length of rest of fish. Eye about midway between angle of mouth and snout tip, about 2 in snout. Pointed teeth uniserial in each jaw. .A single large median depressible canine in front of palate. Dorsal origin before gill-opening. Mid-line of belly from chin to vent dark brown xx ith 2 series of small white spots. Vent outlined in w hite. Anal not spotted. .Attains 21 ins. Known from Honolulu, also at Inhaca Island. 1129a. LVCODONTIS LF.M.A^ 1 Smith. Literature L 90. Plate 99. p. 418. Head about 4 in distance from snout tip to vent, which is about I length of rest offish. Eye slightly nearer snout tip than angle of mouth, about 2 in snout. Sharp conical teeth in a single series in each jaw, 3 in inner upper series each side of upper. 2 large depressible fangs in front of palate. Dorsal origin before gill-opening. Attains 12 ins. Known only from Inhaca Island, among rocks. 1131a. SIDERE.A .SCHONL.ANDl Smith. Literature L 90. Plate 103, p. 505. Head 4^ in distance from snout tip to vent, which is I of rest of fish. Eye about midway between angle of mouth and snout tip, about 2 in snout. Rather blunt conical teeth in 1 series in lower, in 2 scries in upper jaw. 2 median immovable blunt conical teeth in front of palate. Dorsal starts before gill-opening. Greyish brown, small but prominent dark spots on head. Gill-opening in a dusky spot. Attains 30 ins. Known only from Inhaca Island, in sand and rocks, not uncommon. f COMPOSITE INDEX Exclusive of common names, for which see Special Index, p. 546. VALID SCIENTIFIC NAMES are in plain capitals. Only VALID GENERA are listed, and are in plain capitals. The number immediately following each specific name is the serial number of the species. Synonyms and Malidentifications are in italics. General features, etc., are in ordinary type. An asterisk shows that there is an illustration on that page in the text. No page references are given here to the DISTRIBUTION CHART, pp. 432-464, or to the MAIN KEY, pp. 465-490. A ABALISTES. p. 407. 4BALISTES STELLARIS. 1156, p. 407. PL. X9. .Abdominal Pelvic fin. p. 82. iihhortani, Chaetodon, 596. p. 2.^7. ABLENNES, p. 129. 1.10. ABLENNES HIANS, 226. p. 130. PL. 7. ABRANCHES. p. 329. 331. ABRANCHES pinto. 909. p. 331. PL. 72. ABUDEFDUF, pp. 281, 282. ^budefduf antjerius. 769. p. 284. halinensis. 769. p. 284. ABUDEFDUF BIOCELLATUS. 769, p. 284. PL. 50. Abudefduf broa nri^aii. 769. p. 284. ABUDEFDUF DASYGENYS, 768. p. 283. PL. 51. FALLAX. 767. p. 283. ibudefduf nluucus. 769. p. 284, ., hemimelos. 769. p. 284. ABUDEFDUF LACRYMATUS. 764, p. 283. PL. 50. LEUCOZONA.759. p. 282. PL.50. ■ibudefduf pundulatus, p. 284. ,, rossii, 769, p. 284. ABUDEFDUF SAXATILIS, 761, p. 283. PL. 51. SCULPTUS, 766. p. 283. SEXFASCIATUS, 762, p. 283. SORDIDUS. 760. p. 282. PL. 5!. „ SPAROIDES, 765, p. 283.* XANTHURUS,763, p. 283. PL. 51. ABUDEFDUFIDAE. p. 279. 281. Abyssal zone and fishes, p. 5. ACANTHALUTERES, p. 401, 405. ACANTHALUTERES PERONI. 1148. p. 405. ACANTHIAS, SQUALUS. 54, p. 60*. Ayanthidium molleri, 52, p. 59. .. natalen.se. 49. p. 58. quadnspino.sum. 49, p. 58. ACANTHIGER. COELORHYNCHUS, 233, p. 132. ACANTHISTIUS. pp. 190. 193. ACANTHISTIUS SEBASTOIDES. 431, p. 193. PL. 17. ACANTHOCEPOLA. p. 203. ACANTHOCEPOLA CUNEATA, 465. p. 203. PL. 21. LIMBATA, 466, p. 203. ■icanfhocepoia mes p -I PL. 57. • j - - ALBULA. p. 85. Alhuld conorhynchus, 99. p, 85. ALBULA. NOMEUS. 855. p, 307.* p| 61 VULPE.S. 99. p. 85. • ALBULIDaE. p. 85. dlhus. Dente.x. 740. p. 277. Altirovandiu affinis, 171, p. Hi. .. onguilliformis, 171. p. III. • • goodei, 170, p. III. • • ntacrochir, 170. p. I|i. •• niger, 170. p in ALECTIS. p. 213, 219. ALECTIS CILLIARIS, 527, r. 219. P[ '4 IT'^DICUS. 528. p. 219. Pi. '’4 ALEPISAURIDAE. pp. III. 115 ALEPISALRUS, p. 116. ALEPISAURUS FEROX. 187 p 115. ALEPOCEPHALIDaE. p. 95 ALEPOCEPHALUS, p 95. ALEPOCEPHALUS AUSTRALIS. 124, p. 96- BARNARDI, 12.5. p 96 olexandrini. Mold, 1213. p. 422. alfredi, Daemomonta, 88. p. 73. Deratoptera. 88. p. 73. olgoae, Caesio, 704. p. 265. ulgoensis, Chrysophry.s, 721. p. 272. .. Hoplegnathus, 461. p. 201. .. Ophichihys, 1102, p. 390. ALGOENSIS. PARaLICHTHODES MV n PL. 10. ' “ dlgoensis, Tetrodon. 1198. p. 418 dUeterdtd, Gymnosarda, 830, p. 298. Arnio frenatus, 484. p. 208. 383. ALI.F.TERATUS. EUTUYNNUS. 830. n, 298. ,. fusca, 486. n. 208. PL, 65. 15.* dllisoni, Ccr/no, 835, p. 299. ., i\'eolhunfius, 8.15, p. 299. ALLOCYTTUS. pp. 143, 146. 355. ALLOCYTTUS VERRUCOSUS. 277. p. 146.* ALLOTRIOCJNAI Ml. p. 141. dllporri, Cdlidnlhids, 460, p. 201, dlohd, Roosevi'llid, 654, p. 252. Alopecids vuipcs, 22, p. 47. Al.OPIAS. p. 47. Atopids Cduddtus, 12, p. 47. .. vuipes, 22, p, 47. Al.OPIAS VULPINUS, 22. p. 47 * ALOPIIDAE. pp. 39. 47. dller/ui/is, Ifoldcanihus, 584, p. 235. ALTICOPS, pp. 347, 348. ALTICOPS EI7ENTUIUS. 971, p. 348. PL. 75, GIBBIFRONS, 970(/. p. 508. PL. 75. ORYX, 972. p. 349, PL. 75. .. PE:R10PHT HALMUS. 970. p. 348.* PI . 75. uliipennis, Cypsilurus, 211. p. 125. dliipinnG, Cyp\eiuru.\. 211, p, 125. Aluiorius anginosus, 1152. p. 405. .. tnonocero.s, 1152, p. 405, ,, scripti/s, 1153, p. 406. ,, venosu'*, 1153, p. 406. Al.UTERA, p. 405. ■ALUTERA MONOCEROS. 1152. p. 405. PL. 89. Aluierd M tuprus. 1153. p. 406. venosus, 1153. p. 406. Aluieres dngi/io\us, 1152, p. 405. 17. .. otonoceros, 1152. p. 405. ALUTERIOAE, p. 4(K), 405, AMANSES. p. 401, 403. AMANSES LRONTK INCTUS. 1145. p. 404 PL. 88. SANnwiCHILNSLS, 1144. p. 403*. PL. 88 AMBASSIOAE, p. 245. I, AMBASSIS. p. 245. Anibassis drgyrozomi, 637, p. 246. AMBASSIS COMMI:rSOM. 635, p. 245*. Arnbdssis dussuntieri. 637, p, 246. AMBASSIS GYMNOCFPHALUS, 637. p. 246. Ambassis lungi. 636. p. 246. •• natidensis, 634. p. 243. AMBASSIS SAEGHA. 634. p. 245. .. UROTAENIA, 636. p. 246 AMBLYAPISTUS, pp. 367. 368. AMBLYAPISTUS BINOTATA. 1012 r 168 PI 84. AmblyaplMus nuirleyi, 1032. p. 368. AMBLYAPISTUS TAENIONOlUS, 1011 p 168 AMBI YRHYNCHOTES, pp. 416 418 AMBl YRHYNCHOTES HONCKLNir. 1198. p. 418. PL. 93. HYPSELOCiENION, H99. p. 418. PL. 93. ” -SPINOSISSIMUS. 1200. P. 419*. AMBOINENSIS, CAN T MIGASTER. 1211. p. 42|. amboinensis, Monoceros, 616, p. 241. .. Saseuf, 616. p. 241. .. Psilonorus. 1211, p. 421. Tetrodon, 1211, p. 421. .. Tropidichihvs, 1211. p. 421, dmericduus. Dalatuis. 46. p. 56. .. Od'>nia%pi\, 24. p. 48. AMERICANUS. POLYPRION. 45.1, p. lov*. .. XENOLEPiniCUTMVS 279a p. 147. (imerhyMinopunctaluy Maurolkus, 155. p, 105. ” Scopelus, 155. p. 105. Amia aureus, 481. p. 207. „ aurifus. 491, p. 209. bandanensis, 482, p. 207, „ bifasciatus. 483, p. 208. .. dunps, 494. p. 209. gardineri, 494, p. 209. .. ho/ofdcniid, 484. p. 208. .. hyabnontd, 479. p. 207. AMIA, UYPACANl IIUS, 5.19, pp. 222 5«, PLS. 25, 97. Affu'a kidlop/erus, 484. p. 208. d/nid, l.ichid, 539, p. 222. Amid liiieoldfus, 490, p. 209. ,, macroplera, 489, p. 208. maxintus, 483, p. 208. .. mcldtiotdcnid. 487, p. 208. monochrod, 480. p. 207. ,, multiidenidtd, 488. p. 208. .. Hdtalensis, 488, p. 208. nigripes, 476, p. 207. notirdzieki, 4H8, p. 208. .. novemidsciald, 487, p. 208. .. orbiculdri\, 475. p. 207. .. (fuddrildscidlifs. 485. p. 208. ifuekctii, 492, p. 20*^. .. ifuinquevtridlus, 485, p. 208. .. roseipinnis. 48 I, p. 207. ,, sdngiensiv, 478. p. 207. .. sea/ei, 486, p. 208. .. laenidtd, 483, p. 208, .. icieniophorus, 487, p. 208. uninoiiuus, 494, p. 209. .. H-drreni, 477, p. 207. AMMOnYTLS. p. CAI»I-:NSIS. 373. p. 174. PL. 13 AMMonvriDAi:. p. 174. A/tioya nudicep't, 927. p. 336. AmphichthyK apiatus, 1215, p. 423. op/tiocephdlus, 1216, p. 42.1. AMPmi'RION. p. 279. AMPUIPRIGN HICINC'TUS, 748. p. 280. PL. 51 Amphiprion bifdSi uilu\, 747. p. 279. chrysopterus, 748, p. 280. .. ildrkii, 748, p, 280. .. intermedius. 747, p. 279. jdpotiicus, 748. p. 280, papuensis, 748, p. 280. AMPHIPRION POLYMNUS, 747, p, 279*. Amphiprion u/imuuu/diu\, 747, p. 279. .\dnfhuru\, 748. p. 280. AMPMIPRIONIDAI . p. 279. ANACANLIIINI. P- 111. ANACANTHOBAIIS. pp. 69. 71. ANA( AMHOBAIIS MARMORALLS. 84. p. 71V Anago anago, 1112, p. 393. unago. Anago, 1112, p. .193, ANAtiO. ARIOSOMA. 1112. p. .191*. anago, i onger, 1112. p. .193. ,. i ongermurae/id, 1112, p. 393, .. Congrellus, 1112, p. 393. Anal hn. p. 35*. 81*. 82. anafe. Diwoma. 180. p. 1|4, anatis, Curanx. 507, p. 215, .. I.pinephdus, *122. p. 191. .. '^eobyihiies, lOl^i, p. 363. ANALIS. SCOPt LARt HUS, 180. p. 114*. anali\, .Serrunw^. 422, p, 191, ANAMPSL:S, pp. 285. 288. ANAMPSI S CA( RUI.EOPUNC TATI S, 786. p. 2H8. PJ 54. niAOl MAILS. 785. p. 288. PL. *54 ANAS. RMONt lSCUS. 682. p. 260*. PI 40, Ancestry of F ishes, p. 23. ANCHICHOLROF’S. pp. 285. 286. ANCHK HOFROPS NAT Al.I.NSIS, 771. p. 284* 286* PI . MH ANCHOMELLA. p. 93. 94. ANC HOMFTIA COMMERSONII. 119 p. 94* HOI.OnON, 120. p. 94. INDICA. 118, p. 94*. ANCYLOSTOMA, RHINA. 59a. p. 503* ANDERSONL EPINEPHELUS. 437 p 195* PI., 19. andersoni. Pseudorhombus. 304, p. 146, COMPOSITE INDEX 513 Andrew Smith, p. 26. ati^in1 PL. 96. apiaius. Marcyravia. 1215, p. 422. .. Opsanus. 1215. p. 422. APK'ALIS. OPHK'MTHUS. 1102. p. 290. PL. 99. apicalis, Ophichthys, 1102, p. 290. APISTUS. pp. 269, 274, Apistus afatus. 1051. p. 274. APISTUS CARINATUS. 1051, p. 274. I‘L. 84. Apistus faurei, 1051, p. 274. laenionoius. 1022. p. 268. APOOES. p. 285. APOnOCREEOLA. p. 174. .APODOCREEOIA VANI>ERH()RSTi. 275, p 175*. APOG.ON, pp. 204. 206. Apof^on aureus. 481. p. 207. ,. auriius. 491, p. 209. APOGON BANDANIiNSIS. 482. p. 207. PL. 22. Apoiion hifasciaius. 482. p. 208. APOGON CAMPBELL!. 479a, p. 506. PL. 97. Apo^on duops. 494. p. 209. APOGON FLEURIEU, 481. p. 207. PL. 22. ERENATUS. 484, p. 208. PL. 22. EUSCUS, 486, p. 208*. Apomm (.’ardifieri. 494. p. 209. .. holotaemia. 484. p. 208. APOGON MYALOSOMA. 479, p. 207. PL. 22. Apo^on kaUoptcrus. 484, p. 208. ,, Uneoluius. 490, p. 209. ., macropiera. 489, p. 208. .. maxitnus. 482, p. 208. ., melanoiaenia. 487, n. 208. APOGON MONOCHROUS. 480. p. 207. MULTITAENIATUS. 488. p. 208. PL. 22. Apogitn naialensis. 488, p. 208. APOGON NICiRlPES. 476. p. 207. PL. Apo^on noordzieki. 488, p. 208. 22 APOG(2N NOVEMEASCIATUS. 487. PI.. 22. PL. 101. P- 208. ORBICULARIS. 475, p. 207. PL 22, QUADRIFASCIATUS, 485, P- 208. PL. 22. Apogon quekeiii. 492. p. 209. ., quinqueslrialus. 485. p. 208. .. roseipinnis. 481. p. 207. APOGON SANGIENSIS, 478. p. 207*. Apayan seatei. 486. p. 208. APOGON TAENIATUS. 483. p. 208*. Apoqon laeniophorus. 487, p. 208. .. uninotalus, 494. p. 209. APOGON WARRENI. 477, p. 207. pt.. 22. APOGONICHTHYOIDES, pp. 204, 209. APOGON ICHTHYOIDES UNINOTATUS. 494. p. 209. PL. 23. APOCiONICHTHYS, p. 204, 209. Apo^onichihys auriius. 491. p. 209. duops. 494. p. 209. ,. gardineri. 494. p. 209. APOGONICHTHYS OUFKETTI. 492. p. 209. PL. 23. Apogonichthvs uninotatus. 494. p. 209. APOGONICHTHYS ZULUHNSIS. 492. p. 209. PL. 22. APOGONIDAE, p. 204. APOLECTIDAE, p. 212. APOLECTUS, p. 212. APOLECTUS NIGER. 500, p. 212. PL. 24. APOROS, OPHIOCARA. 942, p. 240. apparatus. Branchial, p. 83. APRINUS, CIRRHITICHTHYS. 293, p. 181. PL. 14. APRION, p. 251. Aprion brevirostris. 652, p. 252. APRION YIRESCENS, 652, p. 251*. APSII.US. pp. 251. 252. APSILUS EUSCUS, 656. p. 25 2*. Apsilus zonatus. 654, p. 252. aqui/a. Aetobatis. 76. p. 69. ,. Holorhinus, 76, p. 69. AQUil.A. MYLIOBATIS. 76. p. 69. arab. Ploiosus. 162, p. 108. arabica. Muraena, 1117, p. 294. Muraeneso.w 1117, p. 294. ARAC'ANIOAE. pp. 410, 411. arcatus. Cinhites, 296, p. 182. ARCATUS, PARACIRRHITES, 296. p. 182*. ARCHAMIA. pp. 204, 208. ARCHAMIA LINEOLATA, 490. p. 209. PL. 23. MACROP'LERA. 489, p. 208. PL. 22. Arches, gill. p. 82*. ARCHIONEMA. UR ANOSC'OPUS, 278. p. 176*. anticus. (jaleo(erd<>, 14. p, 44. ARCTICUS, TRACHIIT'ERU.S, 264. p. 142. arcus, Ostracion, 1178, p. 412. ardens. Anihias, 459, p. 201. .. f'ranzia. 459, p. 201. AREI.IA, p. 164. 166. Arclia aitenuaia, 241, p. 166. AREI.IA BILINIiATA. 241, p. 166. PL. 11. AREI.ISCUS, pp. 164. 166. Arelisius ecaudaius, 226. p. 165, AREI.ISCUS MARI E;Y1. 242. p. 166. PL. 11. Areliscus niicrophlhahnus, 242, p. 166. ,, naialensis, 226. p. 165. arenaceus, Cantherines, \ 146. p. 404, ARliNACEUS. THAMNACONUS. 1146. p. 404*. arenarius. Carcharias, 25. p. 48. ARl-NATUS. PRIACANTHUS, 405, p. 185. ARENGUS. pp. 90, 92. ARENGUS SA(iAX, 115, p. 92. PL. 5. Arenicola, p. 11. AREOLATUS. EPINEPHELUS, 446. p. 197. PL. 18. ar^ienlaria. Kquula, 627, p. 244. ,, iiazza. 627, p. 244. arjieniaius. liranchiosie^us. 415, p. 188. ARGENTATUS, COELORH YNCHUS. 225, p. 122. arf’eniaius, Lalilus. 415, p. 188. ARGENTEUS. OIRETMUS, 285, p. 150*. ar^enius. Dales, 412, p. 187. ., Hepaius, 612, p. 240. ,, Holocenlrus, 297, p. 152. ., Laqocephalus, 1194. p. 418. l.anipiinvciu ■, 208, p. 124. ARCiENTEUS. LYCONOOES, 246. p. 125*. MONODACTYLUS. 581, p. 2.24*. ar^enieus, Siyciophum, 208, p. 1 24. ,, Parapempheris, 640. p. 247. ., Parapriacanihus, 640, p. 247. ARCiENTEUS. PHOTICHLHYS. 152, p. 104*. argenieus, Porih/neus, 539, p. 222. Scopelus. 208, p. 124. lelrodon. 1194, p, 418. . leulhis, 612, p. 240. ARCiENTlMACULATUS, LUllANUS. 664, p. 255*. PL. 27. ARGENTINA, p. 96. ARCiENTlNA SPMYRAE.NA. 127, p. 96*. ARCiENTlMDAE. p. 96. ARCiUS, CT:PHAL0PH01 IS, 425, p. 192*. I»L. 16. arqus, Fpinephelus. 425. p. 192. ,, Scaiophaiius, 582. p. 224. ,, Serranus. 425. p. 192. artzvroi’ranunicus. Pristipomoides, 652, p. 252. ARCiYROPELEX'US, pp. 106. 107. ARCiYROPELECUS AEEINIS. 162. p. 107. IHiMIGYMNUS. 160, 107*. OLLE.RSl. 161, p. 107. argvrophanes, Saurus, 177, p. 112. ARGYROPS. pp. 266. 269. 43 514 COMPOSITE INDEX ARCiYROF^S FILAMENTOSUS 716, r* 270. PF. 45. ARGYROPS SPINIFER. 715. p. 270. PL. 45. ARGYROZONA, pp. 277, 278. nr^yrozona, Amixis.sis, 6.U. p. 246. ARCiYROZONA ARGYROZONA, 745, p. 278. PL. 49. ar^yrozona, De/uex, 745. p. 278. .. Poly.stcf'anus. 745, p. 278. ARIOSOMA, pp. 392. .193. ARIOSOMA ANAGO. 1112, p. 393*. „ BALEARICA. 1113. p. 393*. Arius dussumieri, 164, p. 108. ARMATUS, ATRACTOPHORUS. 47. p. 57*. arruatus., Baliste.';, 1164, p. 409. ARMATUS. CARANX. 518, p. 217*. ann(iuis\ Ento.xychirus, 47. p. 57. ,, Mui!oiclk'hihys\ 573, p. 231. .. Suffianieth 1164. p. 409. ARNOGLOSSUS. 156. 158. ARNOGLOSSUS CAPENSIS. 311. p. 159. DALGLEISMI. 310, p. 158*. Arnoglossus wacrolepis, 305. p. 157. ARNOGLOSSUS MICROPHTH ALAI US, 312, P. 159*. AROTHRON. p. 419 AROTHRON AEROSTATICUS. 1206. p. 420. PL. 94. HISPIDUS. 1207. p. 420. PL. 93. IMM.ACULATUS, 1203. p. 420. PL. 93. NIGROPUNCTATL^S, 1204. p. 420. PL. 94. STELLATUS. 1205. p. 420. PL. 95. ARSIUS. PSEUDORHOMltUS. .304. p. 156. PL. 10. Arthropodii. p. 20. aruunum, tetradravhmunu 749. p. 280. ARUANUS. DASCYLLUS. 749. p. 280. PL . 50. axper, Taractes, 860, p. 309. ASPIDONTUS, p. 343, 346. ASPIDONTUS FILAMENTOSUS, 961, p. 346. PL. 21. RHINORHYNCHOS, 962. p. 346. PL. 21. Aspidontus t(ic/u'atus\ 961. p. 346. ASPIDONTUS TAPEINOSOMA, 963. p. 346. PL. 21. ASTEROSPONDYLl. p. 37. 39. Astrape copensix, 89. p. 74. ASTRONESTHES. p. 101. ASTRONESTHES BOULENGERI. 141. p. 101. CAPENSIS, 140. p. 101. RICHARDSON!, 139. p. 101*. ASTRONESTHIDAE. p. 101. ATELEOPIDAE, p. 111. 116. ATELEOPUS, p. 116. .ATELEOPUS NATALENSIS. 188 p. 116*. arelodus, Ariacioscion. 554. p. 227. .. ZeJuco, 554. p. 227. ATER. BATHYPTEROIS. 181. p. 114. ater, GaleichihySy 165, p. 109. ATHERINA, p. 324. .ATHERINA AFRA. 892. p. 325*. „ BREVICFPS. 893 p. 325*. ATHERINIDAE. pp. 316, 324. atherinoides, Gobius. 917, p. 334. ATHERINOIDES, HYNNODUS. 495a. p. 210*. Aiimostoma capensix, 856. p. 307. ailofuicux, Benthodexmus, 868. p. 312. ATLANTICUS. HOPLOSTETHUS, 290. p. 152. IDIACANTHUS. 144. p. 102. ar/anticux, Sauru'.\ 173. p. 112. ATRACTOPHORUS, p. 57. ATRACTOPHORUS ARMATUS. 47, p. 57*. ATRACTOSCION, pp. 225, 227. ATRACTOSCION AEQUIDENS, 554. p. 227 PL. 26. Atracioxcion atelodux. 554. p. 227. atramentaius. Hepaius, 609, p. 240. ,, Teurhix, 609. p, 240. nrricouda, Clupcu, 113, p. 92. alrolu/nhus, Cossyp/uis, 776. p. 287. (iiropos, Caran.x, 505. p. 214. ALROPUS, pp. 213, 214. AI ROPUS AI R(M»US. 505, p. 214*. (('\\ 414, p. 188. AULACOCI PHALUS. p. 190. AULACOCT PHALUS TFAIMINCKI. 419, p. 190. PL. 16. AULOSTOMI p. 170. AUI OSrOMIDAl . p. 170. AUIOSTOMUS. p. 170. AULOSrOMUS VAIFNIINL 360, p. 170*. auramkuus, Lulitinu^. 669. p. 256. iiuriiniii4s\ Cephahtpholis. 422, p. I9i. hlpinepfu’lu^. 422. p. 191. Sv>ri4>iu\. 422, p. 191. AURATUS, STFIOI ANOI LPIS, 1140, p. 402. PL. 88. aun'oviiiat44'<. I uiiciiii4'>. 6.^9. p. 254. .. .\fc\i>pfi(tn^ 659, p. 254. (imriy. Amui, 481. p. 207. ., Apoyon. 481. p. 207. Cirrhitey 393. p. 181. ourifhimnid, \fuiioid(‘.\ 572. p. 231. AURIILAMMA, MULLOIDK'Hl in S. 572. p. 231. PL. 28. AURIGA, CHAFTOl>ON. 592. p. 237. PI. 31. AURITA. SARDINE! LA, i 14a. p. 92. 4iuriti4’;, Audit, 491. p. 209. Apo.von, 491, p. 209. .. Apdi’onuhihyx, 491. p, 209. Lcptoscorus. 826. p. 296. AURITUS. PAPILLAPOGON. 491. p. 209, PL. 23. (Uiriiu'y. Scarichtiw 826. p. 296. ,, Siiirus, 826, p. 296. uurivcttiris, Au\trosparu'-, 710 p. 268, Dipli>du\, 710, p. 268. AUROl.lNLATUS, CiN ATHODF N I LX. (>48. p. 250. PI . 36. iiuro/imuiiux, Fcniamnlus. 648, p. 250. AUSTRAILS. ALLPO( LPHM US. 124, p. 96*. ANMMORA, 25L p. 138, CFNTRACANTUS. 705. p. 265. PL. 43 au'.truii.s, Omyernturaemi, 1113. p. 393. Hepaius. 608, p. 240. Mar.sis. 705. p, 265. Xfaurtdicus 155. p. 105. AUSTRAIIS PARALIPARIS. 1072. p. 380*. austradx. Folymeime. 152. p. 104. Smaris. 705. p. 265. Svnapobramhus, 1090, p. 386. Ji’uihis. 608, p. 240. AUSTROB-MKACHUS. p. 423. AUSTROBA7RACHUS fOLDUS, 1218. p. 423, PL. 96. AUSTROGLOSSUS. pp. 161. 162. AUSTROGLOSSUS MIC ROl LPIS. 326. p. 163 .. PEC TORAl IS. 325, p. 162, PI . 11. 4u.slro\parus aurivenirix 710. p. 268. „ ifiohiceps, 708. p. 267. ,, sarba, 710, p. 268, iricuspidens. 709, p, 268. AUXIS, pp. 297, 298. AUXIS THAZARD. 828, p. 298. PL. 65. AVOCETTINA, p. 391. AVOCETTINA INEANS, 1108. p. 391. axiUaris, Cacsia, 704. p. 265. AXILLARIS, DASCYLLUS, 752. p. 280. LEPIDAPLOIS, 775, p. 287. PL. AXILLARIS PI LROS, MARIS, 704, p. 265. PL. 43. STL'IIIOJULIS. 800 p. 291. PL. 57. ayiiiila. Cot is, 806, p. 292, Julis. 806, p. 292- B hiuii, SiU4nis, 177, |i. 113, BAMIFNSIS, CYPSILURUS. 212, p. 126. PL. 7. hahiensis, F-xacoeiits, 212, p. 126. BAILI.ONI IRACIIINO'IUS, .541, p. 223*. Balance of nature, p. 15. BAI LARICA. ARIOSOMA, 1113. p. -393*. hit/t’utifd, Con^i'ruiurat'fUf. 1113, p. 393. hii/iiu-nsis, ihudetduf. 769, p. 284. (ilypliidodan, 769. p. 284. ,, Hentirhamphux, 221, p. 128. BAIINENSIS, MYPORHAMPHUS. 221. p. 128. BAI ISI APUS. pp. 407, 4 H). liidistapus tuiileutus. 1169, p. 410. .. iifH tus, 1170, p. 410. ,. rcctan^uius, 1170, !•>. 410. HAl ISIAPUS UNDULAiUS, 1171, p. 410. PL. 91. BALIS1 I S, p. 407. HiiHstvs aiideufus. 1I69. b. 4I0. antunus. II64, p. 409. hii-nl,.,-. I I61 p. 408. hrasiJiffisis, II67, b. 40‘L bunira. I 1 .59, b. 408. bursa. M63, p. 409, lapistnifus, I 162, p. 408. iitpislralus. 1171. p. 410. i hrvsitpiera, 1164. p. 409. ,iinius. 1170, p. 410. tocruit’sicus, 1168, p. 410. conspiiillutn. 1161, p. 4{>8. fiavimaryinalus, 1167, p. 409 fiavatm4iyiinalus. 1 167, p 409. tuMUs. 1168. p. 410. lineatus. 1171. b. 410. nuuulaltis. 1166, p. 409. mitis, I 162. |>. 408. niver. 1164. h 409, pitpuensts, ! 167. p. 4()‘L ponatus, 1171, p. 410. radula. 1159. p, 408. rcilanyulus. 1170, p, 410. relit ulaius. 1168. p, 410. ri/inens, 1159, p. 408. rifiyeris. ! 165. p. 40*). sivllaris. 1156, p. 407. sleUatus. 1156. p, 407. i4llduli4tus. 1171. p. 4I(). BAl ISnS VlIblA. 1167, p. 407. PL. 89. Halisics \4Ju(i. 11.58. p. 408. yiridesi4‘n\. 1160, p. 408 BAI 1S1 IDAl . pp. 400. 406, Balistid'*. Trig^'cr mechanism in, p. 406*. BAI ISIOIDLA. p, 4I S. pp. 407. 40H. HAilSTOIDES CONSPIC II LUM. 1161. p. 408. PI . 90. Hulistiddes niifer. 1 164, p. 409. BAIISTOIDIS \ lRir>l SCI NS. 1160. p. 408. PI . 89, haudauensis. 4miu. 482, p. 207. HANDANLNSIS. AlXKiON. 482. p. 207. PL. 23. hundanensis. Siethujulis. 800. p. 291. hanvkit. Ophiihthys. 1103, p. 390. bank, Agulhas, p. 8. hunkunensis, Fonuiceuirus, 756. p. 281. HARAIHRGNUS. pp. 360. 361. BARA7MRONUS HICC)LC)R, 1013, p. 361*. HARBATUM. EC'HIOSTOMA, 135, p. 99*. harbaius, Fetrasciriew 959. p. 345. barbel. Mental, p. 81*. harherinus. Forupeueus, 566. p. 229. Fseudupeueus, 566. p, 229. BARIE-NE. ACAN7HURLJS, 613, p. 240. PL. 33. COMPOSITE INDEX 515 Heptttus, 613, p. 240. „ Iculhis, 613, p. 240. Barnard, K. H., p. 26. barnari^i, ai.f;i>oc:hi‘hai.u.s, 125, p. 96. ^Qfrwn/r, C/(’/i(ttry/}ciU(:h('n, 937, p. 338. „ Mi’xit'i, 877. p. 317. BARNAROI, PARA.MONACANTHUS, 1139, p. 402. I’l.. 88. „ RAIA. 70, p. 67. PL. .3. I’marJi, Syiuinluni. 324, p. 162. ^riKirilichfhys fulvoniaryinalti, 329, p. 163. Baal notch. Caudal fin, p. 35. BATHYIIA I RACTIUS, pp. 423, 424. BATHYBA'f R ACllU.S ALHOl.lNRATIJS, 1221, p. A24*. Balhybial fishes, p. 5. BATllYIlllJS, HISTIOHRANCMUS, KWO, p. ,1S6*. ^Ihyhm, .Synapohrwrehuy, 1090, p. 386. BATllYGAnuS, pp. 131, 1,36. BATIIYGMJUS CAl’LNSI.S, 248, p. I.36*. LUMOSUS, 247. p. 136. MLLANOUR ANC llUS. 249, p. 1.36. BATllYGfYlil US, pp. 329, 331. BATHY(,(JH| US 1 USCUS, 910, p. .331. PL. 71. SAI lYANIIA, 912. p. .331*, WILLIAM, 911, p. 331. PL. 71. BATllYl.ACiUS. p. 97. BATHYl.A. nafdl^nsis, 228. p. 130. .. sfnff^ul^nus, 227. p. 130. iBELONlCH I IlYS, pp. 167. 170. BELONR H IHYS H UC IAIII IS. 359. p. I70V aF.MBR117Acl^ pp. 366, 377. 6EMBROPS, p. 178. Bembrops a4.Jenensis, 383a, p. 173. BEMBROPS CAUDIMACULA, 383a. p. 178*. ^tmhrops nernatopterus, 383a, p. 178. BEMBROPS! DAE, p. 178. •>engiilensis, Diacope, 657, p. 254. „ l^utUinuSy 657, p. 254. Beriguella current, pp. 7, 8. BENNETTI, CHAETODON, 605a. p. 506. beneniy l^omoda.svs, 675, p. 257. benoiti, Myctophum, 199, p. 121. PE-.NSASJ. UPENEUS, 562, p. 229. PL. 27. lienteniu ae.s/icoia, 870, p. 313. lienrhodesmus aihmiicus, 868, p. 312. BENTMODESMUS, p. 312. BE'NTHOI9ESMUS TENUIS, 868, p. 312*. BERDA, ACANTHOPAGRUS, 707, p. 267. PL. 44. berdu, Chrysophrys, 707, p. 267. Pagrus, 707, p. 267. „ Sparus, 707, p. 267. BLRYCIDAE, pp. J48, 150. BERYCOIDEl, p. I48. HERYX. p. 150. Beryx hngipinnis, 287, p. 151. BERYX SPLENDENS. 286, p. 150*. biavuleatus, Ga.strotokeu^, 357, p. 169. BIACULF.ATUS,SYNGNATH0IDES,357, p. 169*. BIBARBATUS, GOBIUS, 934, p. 337*. BICINCTUS. AMPHIPRION, 748. p. 280. PL. 51. hicoaniaia, Syngnathus, 356, p. 169. BICOARCTATA. YOZIA, 356, p. 169*. bicolor. Balisies. 1161, p. 408. BICOl.OR, BARATHRONUS. 1013, p, 361*. hicolor, l.agocephalu';, 1194, p. 418, Tetrodon. 1194, p. 418. Suffhimen. 1161. p. 408. I halassottxa, 781, p. 288. BKOLORATA, MARLEYELLA, 300, p. 155. PI . 10. hicolorata, Poecilopsefia, 300, p. 155. hivuspis, l.uctophrys. 1174, p. 411. ., OMracion, 1174. p. 411. Rhinesontus, 1174, p. 411. Biden, C. 1.., p, 26. bide/ii, hurus, 28. p, 50. HIDLNJCUTHYS. pp. 360, 361. BIDLNICHTHYS CAPENSIS, 1012 p. 361*. BllASClATUS, ACANTHOPAGRL'S, 706, p. 266*. PL. 44. hifau Amia, 483, p. 208. Amphiprion, 747, p, 279. Apogon, 483. p. 208. Chaetodon, 605b. p. 506. Cheilinus. 815, p. 293. ChrysohlephuK, 706. p. 266. .. Pagrus, 706, p. 266. Sparus. 706, p. 266. BIEILUM. ANTENNABLENNIUS, 967, p. 348, PL. 76. hifylutu, Blenniu\. 967, p. 348. BIGIHBUS. ANTENNARIUS. 1235, p. 430. PL. 98. KYPHOSUS, 639, p. 247. PL . 34. BILINLATA. ARELIA. 341. p. 166. PL. 11. PARAPLAGUSIA. 335, p. 165*. hilineatu'y. Aihirus, 341. p. 166. . Cynoglossus. 341, p. 166. BIMACLLATUS, CHEILINUS, 815, P- 293. PL, 61. bimuiulatu.%, Dascyllus, 753. p. 280. Heliastes, 753. p. 280. BIMACLLATUS. SCOLOPSIS, 684. P- 260. PL. 41. BINOTATA. AMBLYAPISTUS. 1032 . P- 368. PL 84. hinotata. Seriola, 536, p. 221. .. Tetraroge. 1032, p. 368. BIOC'El LATUS. ABUDEFDUE. 769, P* 284. PL. 50. ANTENNARIUS. 1237, p. 431. PL. 98. hiocellaius, Glyphidodon, 769, p. 284. PomacentruSy 756, p. 281. BIPINNULATUS. ELAGATIS, 543, p. 223*. BIPOROSUS, CLINOPORUS, 1003, p. 358. PL. 82. biporosus, Clinus, 1003, p. 358. bipunctatus, Hepaius. 611. p. 240. „ Teuthi.s. 611. p. 240. BIROSTRIS. MANTA, 88, p. 73*. BISPINOSUS, CENTROPYGE, 587, p. 235*. bispinosus, flolaca/iihus, 587, p. 235. bilaeniaiusy Tetrodon. 1209, p. 42 1. „ Tropidichlhys, 1209, P* 421. Bites, treatment of, p. 24. BLACKBURNII, CHAETODOLn'. 606 p. 239*. PL. 32, black fordi, Yarrella, 152, p. 104. Bleeker, P., p. 26. bleekeri, Caninx, 522, p. 218. Cirrhites, 393, p. 181. BLEEKERI, SOLEA, 328, p. 163. PL. 10. Blennechis filamentosusy 961, p, 346. BLENNIIDAE, pp. 342, 343. BLENNIOCLINUS. pp. 350, 356. BLENNIOCLINUS BRACHYCEPHALUS, 995, p. 356. PL. 79. STELLA, 9S>4. p. 356. PL. 79. BLENNIOMIMUS, pp. 350. 3 53. BLENNIOMIMUS COTTOIDES, 983, p. 353. PL. 78. TAURUS, S^82, p, 353. PL. 78. BLENNIOIDEA, p. 342. BLENNIUS, p. 343. Blenruus bifiluni, 961, p. 348. .. capita, 954, p. 344. BLENNIUS CORNUTUS, 952. p. 344. PL. 74. „ CRISTATUS, 950. p. 343. PI,. 76. „ FASCIGULA, 951, P- 344*. PL. 76. Blenniux hypeneles, 968, p. 348. BLENNIUS OCELLATUS, 953, P- 344. Blennius punctifer, 950, p. 343. „ scullyiy 952, p. 344. „ semij'asciatus, 950, p. 34 3. „ steindachneri, 950, p. 343. „ trijascigulay 951, p. 344-. „ wondi, 955, p. 345. BLENNOPHIS, pp. 350, 352. BLENNOPHIS ANGUILLARLS, 980. p. 352. PL. 78. STRIATUS. 98 I , p. 353*. Blepharis ciliari.s, 527, p. 219. btochiiy Cantharusy 736, p. 276. ,, Curanthus, 736, p. 276. HiPuy 109. p. 90. BLOCHII, PACHYMETOPON. 736. p. 276. PL. 47. RHINOBATOS. 61, p. 64. PL. 3. hlochii, Rhinohutus, 61, p. 64. ,, Spondyliosomay 736, p. 276. BLOCHH, TRACHINOTUS. 542, p. 223. PL. 25. Blood-worm, p. 15. BOA. STOMIAS, 131, p. 98*. Body, Depth of, p. 84*. ,. Length of. p. 84*. temperature in fishes, p. 31. BOHAR, LUTJANUS. 667, p. 255*. bonae-spei, Heierodontus, 4, p. 39. BONARIENSIS, SERIOLA, 538. p. 222. PL. 26. bonel/ii, Trachypterus. 264a. p. 142. Bony fish, features of, pp. 81-84. BOOPS. CYTTOSOMA, 275, p. 146*. PRIACANTHUS. 404, p. 184*. Boopx salpa. 731. p- 274. BOOPSINAE, pp. 265, 274. BOOPSOIDEA, pp. 272. 273. BOOPSOIDEA INORNATA, 729, p. 274. PL. 45. BORBONTCUS, LETHRISUS, 700, p. 264. bore. p. 14. borealis, Slaurolicus, 155, p. 105. borensis, Diacope, 662, p. 254. .. Lutianus, 662, p. 254. borneensisy Mugil, 886, p. 322. boro, Ophichthys, 1100, p. 389. ,, OphburuSy 1100, p. 389. BORO, PISODONOPHIS, IlOO, p. 389*. Borostomias richardsoni, 139, p. 101. BOTHIDAE, pp. 154, 156. BOTHUS pp. 156, 160. BOTHUS MANCUS. 318, p. 160. MYRIASTER, 316, p. 160*. 516 COMPOSITE INDEX Bothus ovaiis, 316. p. 160. BOTHUS PANTHERiNUS. 317. p. 160*. botlonensis, Diocope, 662. p. 254. „ Lutuinus, 662, p. 254. Boulenger, p. 26. BOULENGERl, ASTRONESTHES, 141. p. 101. BOVINUS. HANOMANCTUS. 1143, p. 403*. hovinus, Myliohati.s, 77, p. 69. BOVINUS, PTEROMYLAEUS. 77, p. 69*. Box saipa, 731, p. 274. BRACHYCEPHALUS, BLENNIOCLINUS. 995, p. 356. PL. 79. brachycephalus, Clinu.w 995, p. 356. hrachydactylus, Chilodactylus. 398, p. 182. BRACHYDACTYLUS, PALUNOLEPIS, 398, p. 182. PL.. 15. bruchyptera, Echeneix, 948, p. 342. BRACHYPTERA, REMORA. 948. p. 342. BRACHYPTERUS, DENDROCHIRUS, 1050. p. 374. PL. 102. PAREXOCOETUS, 215. p. 126. PL. 7. brachyptertis Pierob, 1050. p. 374. brachysoma, Ophichthys, 1100a. p. 510. Ophisun4s, 1100a, p. 510. BRACHYSOMA. RASTRELLIGER 838. p. 300. hrachyurus. Doryichthys. 358. p. 170. .. Doryrhamphus. 358. p. 170. BRACHYURUS. MICROPHIS, 358, p. 170*. BRAMA, p. 308. BRAMA RAIL 859. p. 308*. BRAMIDAE, pp. 297. 308. Branchial apparatus, p. 83. BRANCHIALEPES. pp. 2i3. 214. BRANCHIALEPES. TABULAE. 504, p. 214. Branchiostegal rays, pp. 81*. 84. Branchioslegals, p. 84. BRANCHIOSTEGIDAE. p. 188. BRANCHIOSTEGUS. p. 188. Branchioste^us ar^entotus. 415, p. 188. BRANCHIOSTEGUS DOLIATUS, 416. p. 189*. PL. 16. JAPONICUS, 415, p. 188* PL. 16 brasilien^is, Bulistes, 1167, p. 409. braueri. Coelorhymhus. 232. p. 132. BREGMACEROS, p. 137. BREGMACEROS MACCLELLANDI, 251, P- 137* breviborbalus. l.umurus. 244. p. 135. BREVIBARBATUS. M.ACRUROPLUS, 244, p. 135. brevicaudata, Bathytoshia, 81, p. 70. BREViCAUDATUS. DASYATIS. 81. p- 70*. BREVICEPS, ATHERINA. 893. p. 325*. brevicornis, Lactophrvs. 1179. p. 413. ,. Osfracion. 1179, p. 413. brex'U'risiaius, Ciinus. 985, p. 353. BREVICRISTATUS, PETRAITES, 985, p. 353. PL. 78. BREVIMANUS. CUBfCEPS. 857. p. 308*. brevipinniSs Dcdatias, 46, p. 56. ,, Scymnorhinus, 46, p. 56. brevirostris, Aprion, 653. p. 252. BREVIROSTRIS. CAECULA. 1097. p. 389*. NASO. 615. p. 241. PL. 34. brevirostris, Ophichthys, 1097, p. 389. Saurus, 178. p. 113. .. Sphagebranchus, 1097. p. 389. BREVIROSTRIS. TETRAPTURUS, 876. p. 315*. brevis. Deniex. 741. p. 277. Selar. 502. p. 213. brevispinis. ChihHiactyius. 398, p. 182. brighami. Rooseveltia, 654 p. 252. „ Serranus. 654, p. 252. Brisbania sioigeri. 101, p. 86. BROTULA. pp. 360, 361. BROTULA MULTIBARBATA. 1014. p. 361*. Brotula pa/mietensis, 1014, p, 361. BROTULIDAE. pp. 342. 360. brownriggii, AbudejduJ. 769, p. 284. ,, Glyphidodun. 769, p. 284. BRUCUS, ECHINORHINUS. 44. p. 56*. BRUNNEUS. ILYOPHLS. 1092. p. 387*. buchanmi, Mugil, 888, p. 323. BUCHANANl, VALAMUGIL, 888. p. 323. PL. 68. buniva. fiaJiste.s. 1159. p. 408. McJkhthy.s. M59, p. 408. bursa, Bulisres, 1163, p. 409. BURSA. HEMIBALISTES. 1163. p. 409. PL. 90. bursa, Suffiatnen, 1163 p. 409. BUTIS. p. 339. BUTIS BUTIS. 940. p. 340. „ CAPFRATUS, 939. p. 3.39*. hutis, Eleolris, 940. p. 340. ( cahalla. Liog/ialhus. 626. p. 243. CABRILLA. SERRANUS. 429, p. 193. Caducous scales, p. 84. Caeca. Pyloiic. p. 84. CAECULA. p. 388. CAECULA BREVIROSI RIS, 1097. p. 389*. KIRKII. 1095. p. 389. NATALENSIS. 1096. p. 389*. ORIENTAl.lS, 1098. p. 389. CAERULAUREUS. CAESICY 687, p. 261. PL. 41. caeruleolineatu\, PIcsiops, 410, p. 186. CAFRULEOPUNCTATUS. ANAMPSES. 786. p. 288. PI . 54. EPINI PIH-LUS. 450. p. 198. PI. IS. caetuleus, Chiioniyclcrus, 1189 p. 416. ., Diodon, 1189. p. 416. CAESIO. p. 261. Caesio algoae, 704, p. 265. .. axillaris, 704. p. 265. CAESIO CAERIILAUREUS. 687. p. 261. PL. 41. Caesio nuuulattts, 687. p. 261. .. striatus. 687. p. 261. CAES100H9AE. p. 261. caffer, Pagrus, 707, p. 267. calamaea, Chrysophrys, 707, p. 267, CALLANIMIAS, pp. 2(K). 201. Calanthias ailporii, 460. p. 201. CALLANTHIAS LEC'iRAS. 460. p. 201. PI. 20. CALLELE03RIS. pp. 339, 340, CALLELEOTRIS HELSDINGENIi. 943. p. .340. PL. 73. CALLIONYMIDAE. p. 179. CAI LIONYMUS. p. ISO. Calfionynius co\ialu\, .392. p. 181. CAlL(ON> MUS MARLFYL .390, p. 180. PL. 14. MARMORATUS. 389. p. 180. PL. 101. CALLILRK HTHYS. p. 180. CALLIURICHTHYS GAROINERI. 391. p. 180. calUurus, Cirrhites. 393. p. 181. CALLORin NCHinAE. p. 77. CALLORHYNCHUS. p. 77. CALLORHYNCHUS CAPENSIS, 95. p. 77*. CALLYODON. p. 295. CaUyodon cuudofosciatus, 821. p. 295. ,. ceiehicus. 822. p. 295. CALLYODON ENNEAf'ANTHUS. 823, p. 296. GUTTATL'S. 824. p. 296. PL. 62. OVICEPS. 821. p. 295, SORDIDUS. 822. p. 295. Caliyodon spinidens, 827, p, 296, .. iroschelii. 822, p. 295. .. varieguius. 822, p. 295. .. \ iridescens, 827. p, 296. CALLYODONTIDAE, pp. 284. 295. calori, Diodon. 1184. p, 415. CALORl. LOPHODIOIX)N. 1184. p 415. PL. 92. CAMELOPARDALIS. HIPPOCAMPUS. 348, p. 167. CAMPBELL!. APOCiON. 479a. p. 506. PL. 97. canadum, Rhachvcenfron. 548, p. 225. .. Rhachycentrum. 548. p. 225. CANADUS. RACHYCENTRON. 548. p. 225*. canalicuUitu.s. Mugil, 884, p. 321. CANALICULATUS. STRIAIIZA. 884, p. 321*. ciincrivorus. Ophichthys, I 1 00a. p. 510. Ophisuriis. II 00a, n. 510. CANCRIVORUS. PISODONOPMIS. 1 lOUa.p. 510*. canescens, Pachytnetopon, 736. p. 276. C'ANE:SCENS, ZANCLUS. 6I9. p. 241. Caniniforni tcelh. p. 83. CANINUS. CHEII ()I)IPTI;RUS. 472. p. 205, PL. 22. cants, (ialcorJtinus, 15, p. 44. CAMS. MUS'T'ld.US. 19. p. 46*. CANTHAR0IDL:S. AirriASIS, 655, p. 252*. Camhariis hlochii, 736. p. 276. enuirginatus, 739. p. 276, .. microh'pis, 7.39, p. 276. natalen\i\. 737, p. 276. .. sinius, 7.37, p. 276. Cantherines (irenaceus. 1146. (■>. 404. .. tnodrstoules, 1 147. *304. .. natah’nsis, 1144. p. 403. pardalis, I 144, p. 403. .. perofii, I 148, p. 405. sandnichiensi',. 1 144. p. 403. CAM IHDE'RMIS. pp. 407. 409. CANTHIDl R.MIS MACULAJ'IS. 1166, p. 409. PL. 91. i'anthidermis ringens, 1165. p. 409. CANIHKiASEER. p 420. CANIHIGASII R AMBOINI NSIS. i:n. p. 42|. CAUDOl ASCIA TUS, 1209, p. 421*. MARGARII A rUS. 1210. p. 421. PL. 94. vai.i:nhni, 1208. p. 420 PL. 94, CANlHIGASn RIDAl . pp. 414, 420. CANTONI NSIS. PI HIOPH I HAI .MUS, 936. p. 338*. capensis, Achirus, 321. p. 161. CAPENSIS. AMMODYIES. 37.3. p. 174. PL. L3. ARNOCil.OSSUS. 311, P- 159. iapen\is, Astrapc, 89, p, "^4. < AP1NSIS. ASIKONESTHI S. I4(). p. 101. capensis, Aiimostonui, 856. p. 307. C APENSIS. BAlHY(iADUS. 248. p. 136*. BATHYPIi ROIS. 183, p. 114. PI . 6. capensis. Belone, 227, p. 130. CAPENSIS. BID1:N1CHI HYS. 1012. p. 361*. CALI ORHYNCHUS. 95. p. 71*. CHAMPSOIX)N, 376. p. 175*. capensis, Chelidonichthw. 1083, p. 38.3. CAPENSIS, CIRRHIBARBIS, 977. p. 352. PL. 77. capensis, Clinus, 977, p. 352. CAPENSIS. C'ORACINUS. 644. p. 248*. capensis, Cuhiceps, 856. p. .307. Diastobranchus. 1091, p. 386. .. Dichislius, 644. p. 248. .. Diplodus. 7 I 3. p. 269. .. Dipterinlo/i, 644. p. 248. Chips, KX). p. 86. ,, /.ngrauiis, 123. p. 95. CAPENSIS. CiAlDRDPSARUS. 252. p- 138*. CiENYPTl RUS. 1023. p. 364. Pi.. 87. (ill LIAS. I(K)5, p. 359. capensis, (iobius, 927. p. .3.36. CAPENSIS. HAI OPORPHYRUS. 225, p. 139, Hi TEROMX TI RIS. 321. p. 161* P! in. HIPPOCAMPUS, 345. p. 167. PL. 12 II YOPHIS, 1091. p. 386. capensis. l.epidion, 255, p. 139. l.eptorhvmhus, 1106. p. 391. l.ithognalhus, 726, p. 27.3. C'APENSIS. MI RLUCCIU.S, 257, p. 1.39*. capensi.s, .\arcine, 89. p. 74, CAPENSIS. NARkE. 89, p. 74. PL. 4. capensis. Onos, 252, p. 138. Otophidiuni, 1023. p. 364. Pentaceros, 621, p. 242. CAPENSIS. F*ETA[ ICHTHY.S, 225. p. 129*. PHYSICULUS. 260. p. 140*. COMPOSITE INDEX 517 aipensis, Poro^nomnius, 1028. p. .^66. CAPRNSIS. QUINQUARIAS. 621. p. 242. PI. 35. capen.sis, Sciri:u.s. 71.3, p. 269. CAI'PNSIS. SCIAPNA. 556. n. 227. PL. 26. capensis, Sconiher, 537. p. 221, .. Scorpae/ut. 1044. p. 372. CAPPNSIS. SC'YL lORlHNUS. 38, p. 54. PI.. 2. caprnsis, Scviliorhinus. 38. p. 54. CAPPNSIS. SliOASTK'irmYS, 1045, p. 372. PL. 85. SLHASl(lSt:MUS. 1044, p. 372*. mpensix. Sofcd, 323. p- 162. ,, Strofnafeux, 845. p. 303, ,, I'rachurux. 501. p. 213. (. APPNSIS. TRKil A. 1083. p. 383. PI . 86. Cdpenxis, l'riptt>r}\’iufn. KK)5. p. 359. CAPFNSIS. TRULLA 342, p. 166. PI, II. iii/ex fuhi)^'uifdius\ 522. p. 218. < 524. p. 218. Ciirunlhus aent’ux, 737. p. 276. hiochii. 736. p. 276. .. em(ir^in(ilu'-s 739. p. 276. microlepi'^. 739. p, 276. CARANX. pp. 213. 214. CARANX ADSC'I NSIONIS, 507. p. 215. tij^ni\, 510. p. 216. muilix. 507. p. 215. CARANX ARMATUS. 518. p. 217*. C'artin.x (tiritp<>s. 505. p. 214. hleekeri. 522. p. 218. .. ioraniioulrs. 519. p. 217. .. iorantius. 524. p. 218. I hrysophrYoUies. 516. p. 217. CARANX CHR^SOPHRYS. 516. p. 217. CiiTiinx cHiiiria. 518. p. 217. coeruiftipinnaiux, 516. p. 217, CARANX COMPRFSSUS. 514. p. 216. Curanx i-runifnitphthdldiw^. 503. p. 214. Ufnifx. HM. p. 215. CARANX OINFMA. 519, p. 217. DJf nAHA, .‘;08. p. 215. PI 25. Caranx djedduhii. 508. p. 215. CARANX FQUL'L A. 515, p. 216, FI RI7AIJ. 523. p. 218V Caranx tarsieri. 511. p. 216. CARANX FULVOCiUTlATUS. 522. p. 2IK PL. 25. Caranx nallus. 528. p. 219, CARANX GYMNOST HHOIDE S. 521. p. 218. Caranx hippm, 511. p. 216. CARANX HIPPOS. 524. p. 218' IGNOBIl IS. 520. p. 217*. Caranx kalia, 502. p. 213. kurra. 530. p. 220. macrophlhainiux. 503. p. 214, CARANX MAI.ABARICGS. 517, p. 217*. MATF, 510. p. 216*. Caranx nuiuriiianus. 503. p. 214. CARANX MFLAMPYGUS. 513. p. 216. MKROBRACmUM. 509 p. 216*. Caranx natalenxis. 507. p. 215, CARANX Ofll.ONCiUS, 525, p. 219. Caranx plamheas. 5I«. p. 217. xanxum, 520. p. 217. caranx SCXI'ASC'IATUS, 511, p. 216. I’l.. 25. SPF.CIOSUS, 506, p. 215. PL. 25. stf;llatus. 512. p. 216, pl. 25. Caranx xanthopvKux. 524. p. 2] 8, C'AKAPIDAI;. pp. 342. 359. CARAPUS. pp. 359. 360, CARAPUS NFXiLFCTUS. 1009, p. .360. PUNCTATUS, 1008, p. 360. CARHUNCULUS. FTF.LIS. 651, p. 251, PI-. 36, C'ARCII ARIAS, p, 48. C archariax areiuiriux, 25. p. 48. CARCMARIAS. CARCMARODON, 26, p- 49. PI . 1. i archariax crcnidcns, 1.3, p. 43. .. ^aii};('licux, 9, p. 42. CARCMARIAS TAURUS. 25. p. 48. PL. 1. CARCMARIAS TRlCUSPinATUS. 24, p. 48*. CAR('MARIII3AF;. pp. .39, 48. Crircharinus acuius. 13, p, 43. .. dnxxumieri, 8. p. 42. iialiuux, 10. p. 42, limbulnx, 5. p, 40. nuickiei, 10. p. 42. ntelannpicrux. 7, p, 41. nhxcurns. 6, p. 41, .. vn^afidx, 11, p. 4.3. walhcchnu, 12. p. 43. „ za/nhcxenxix, 9. p. 42. CARCMARODON. p. 49 CARCMAROnON CARCMARIAS, 26. p. 49. PI . 1. (. tinharadon nnidr/elii, 26, p. 49. ( ARFPROCTUS. p. 379, ( ARE PROCTUS A1 BE:SCF;NS. 1070, p. 379. tarinaluni, Xerut^rarnnia. 862. p. 310. C'ARINATUS. APISTUS, 1051. p. 374. PE . 84 C0RYPMAFNGI[^E:S. 238, p. 1.34. caritiaius. OVrrrs. 633. p. 245. CARNI-:US. OASCYLLUS, 750, p. 280. PL. 50, cartdinux. Priacanfhux. 403. p. 184. Cartilaginous E ishcs. p. 35. Castelnau, Comic de. p. 26. CATAFTYX. pp. .360. .363. CAIAETYX MESSIER!. 1020. p. 363*. C ATAPMRACTI. p. 366. Caudal. E'marijinatc. pp. 81*. 82. Forked, p. 82. I unate. p. 82. E*ointed. p. 82. Rounded, p. 82. Truncate, p. 82. NVedge sEiaped p. 82. Cauda! tin. pp, 81*. 82. C'audal fin. basal notch, p. 35*. upper notch, p. 35*. C'audal lobe. p. 35*. peduncle, p. 81*. CALf3ASPINOSA. RAIA. 72. p. 67*. caudatu'>. Ali>pia\. 22. p. 47. CAUUATUS. FE PIDOPUS, 867. p. 312*. CAUr>IMACUI A. E3FMBROPS. 383a. p. 178*. CORIS. 807. p. 292. E>I . 58. laudiftasi iaius. Callyodon. 82 1. p. 295. CAUnOE ASCIATUS. CAN I MKiASTE R. 1209. p, 421*. mudolasiiatus. P\eudn\caru\. 821. p. 295. lelrodon. 1209. p. 421. .. / ropidii hlhys, 1209. p. 421. iclrhiius. C idiytHlon, 822. p. 295. .SVorii', 822. p. 295. C E NT RACANTIOAF:. p. 265. CE NT RACANTUS. p. 265. C FNTRAC'ANTUS AUSTRALIS. 705. p. 265. PI . 43. CFNTRIQUAnRUS. El Al.lCHOERES, 793, p. 290. PL. 56. CRNTRISCIDAF. p. 172. C FNTRISCOPS. pp. 171. 172. Centrixcop.s hunieraxus, 367. p. 172. CRNTRISCOPS GBI.IOUUS, .365, p. 172*. Ceiitriscus japonicus, 363. p. 171. Centralophodes irvini 850, p. 305, CENTROl.Ol'MUS, pp. 302. 305. CENTROLGPMUS NIGER. 850, p. 305*. CENTROPMOLOIDES, p. 313. CENTROPHOl.OIDES FALCATUS, 871, p. 313. CENTROPYGF, pp. 234, 235. CFNTROPYOF BISPINOSUS. 587, p. 235*. CFNTROPYCiE FISHFRI, 588. p. 235. PL. 30. CENTROSCYMNUS, p. 57. CENTROSCYMNUS FUSCUS. 48, p. 58. cpniurio, l.ethrinux, 702, p. 264. CEPEHIANUS, HFPTRANCHIAS, 2, p. 38*. LOPMOTL^S. 266, p. 142*. CEPMAl ACANTMIDAE, pp, .366, 381. CEI»HAI.OPMOLlS, p. 190. CEE*MAI GPHOLIS ARCiUS, 425, p. 192*. PL. 16. AURANTIUS, 422. p. 191*. MEMISTICTUS, 424. p. 192. .. MINIATUS. 423, p. 192. PL. 16. PACHYCENTRON, 425a. p. 504. PL. 102. ROCiAA. 420, p. 191*. SONNERATL 421, p. 191. PL. 16. CEPMAI.OSCYl I.IUM, p. 52. CEPMALOSCYI I.IUM SUFFLANS, 34. p. 52*. (pphaintnx, MuiiiL 877, p. 317. C'FPEfAl.US. MUCjIL,. 877. p. 317*. ( i'pola indica. 466, p. 203. CEE’Ol IDAE, p. 203. ceratnensis, Cheilinux, 815. p. 293. CFRA'MIDAE. pp. 425, 428. cerniutn. Palvprion, 453, p. 199. cervinu\, Diplodus. 714, p. 269. Surras. 714. p. 269. cervux, Aeinhulh, 75, p. 68. .. Hohtrhinus. 75. p. 68. CE RVUS. MYI.IOBA7IS, 75, p. 68*. PL. 3. CETOMIM1DAE-. pp. 111. 124. CETOMIMUS. p. 124. ct-:tomimus picklfl 209, p. 124*. Crtarhi/iux maxiinus, 23, p. 47. ceyinnensis. MukH, 88. p. 323. ceylntmu'.. Platy^hssux, 795. p. 290. chahaudi. Serrunux, 437. p. 195. Chaetndiplerux orhis, 578, p. 233. C MAE TOnON, p. 236. Chaeindon uhhnriani. 596, p. 237. CMAFTGDGN AURIGA. 592, p. 2.37. PL. 31. BF.NNETTL 605a. p. 506. Chaetodon bifaxciaiux. 605b. p. 506. C'MAFTODON Bl.ACKBURNll. 606. p. 239*. PL. 32. CTIRYSLRUS, 603, p. 238*. PL, 32. Chaeiodtm cinyukitus. 600. p. 238. ., decuwatux. 599, p, 238. .. dorsaiis, 596. p- 237. CHAETOPON EAl.CUl.A. 597. p. 237*. ChuPiodon ftlanietunxus. 592. p. 237. fiavexipn'-. 600. p. 238. ( ELAE'TOPON GUNTHERI. 604. p. 2.39*. CiUTTATlSSlMUS. 602. p. 2.38. PL. 32. KLElNll. 600, p. 238. PI- 32. llNEOl.ATUS. 601, p. 238* PL. 39. ChiiPtodini iutuiri\, 592. p. 237. CHAETODON LUNULA. 598. p. 238. PL. 31- Chaetodon marainatus. 596. p. 237. CHAETODON MARI EYE 591. p. 236, PL. 31. MELANOTUS. 5^6, p. 237. PL. .31. Chaetodon melaxtoniux. 600. p. 238. 603. p. 238. CHAETODON MILIARIS. 595. p. 237*. Chaetodon ni^ripinnix, 605. p. 239. 518 COMPOSITE INDEX Cluieiodon nif'ropi/uuiius. 605. p. 23'). .. picfus, 599. p. 238. setifer. 592, p. 237. sirigcw^ulus, 605b. p. 506. ,. tain. 601. p. 238. .. triangularis, 605b, p. 506. CHAETODON TRII- ASCIAI.IS. 605h, p. 506. PL. 102. TRIFASCIATUS. 593. p. 237. PI.. 31. UNIMACULATUS, 594, p. 237. PL. 32, VAGABUNDIJS. 599. p. 238. PL. 31. Chaetoilan virescens, 600. p. 238. CHAETODON XANTHOCEPHAI.US. 605. p. 2.39. PL. 32. Chavfodon xanlhurus, 603, p. 238. CHAETODONTIDAE, p. 236. CHALARODERMA. pp. 343, 344. CHALARODERMA CAPITO, 954. p. 344. CHALUMNAE. LATIMERIA. 98. pp. 79. 80. PL. 66. CMAMPSODON. p. 175. CHAMPSODON CAPENSIS. 376, p, 175. CMAMPSODONTIDAE. p. 175. <’HANIDAE. p. 88. CHANOS. p. 88. CHANO.S CHANOS. 105. p. 88*. i'fumos salmoncus, 105. p. 88, ihapnioni. Psencs, 854, p. 306. Churax puntozzo, 712. p. 269, Chart. Distribution, p. 432. CHASCANOPSETTA. pp. 156. 157. Chascanopsetia siJchrisii. 306. p. 157. CHASCANOPSETTA LUGUBRIS. 306. p. 157. Chascanopscrta maculafa. 306. p. 157. <.'HATRABUS. pp. 423. 424. CHATRABUS DAMARANUS. 1220. p. 424*. MFLANURUS. 1219. p. 424. PL. 96. CHAULIODONTIDAE, p. 102. <'HAUL10DUS. p. 102. CHAULiODUS SLOANL 145, p. 102, PL. 5. CHAUN.ACID.AE. pp. 425. 430. CHAUNAX, p. 4.30. CHAUNAX PICTIS. 1233, p. 430. PI.. 95. CHAXESH. LAMPADF.NA. 200. p. 121*. Check, p. 81*. <'HEILINUS. pp. 285. 293. CheiUnus bifasciniits. 815, p. 293. CHFILINUS BIMACULATUS. 815, p. 293. PL. 61. Cheilwus ceramcnsis, 815, p. 293. chlorurus. 818. p. 294. CHFILINUS DIAGRAMMUS. 817, p. 294*. Cheilinu^ mossamhicus. 815, p. 293. punctatus. 818. p. 294. punciulatus, 818. p. 294. .. radiatus, 817. p. 294. CHFILINUS TRILOBATUS, 816. p. 294. PL. 56. UNDULATUS. 817a, p. 294. CHEILIO. p. 285. CHEILIO INFRMIS, 770. p, 285. PL. 62. CHEILODIPTERUS, p. 205. CHEM.ODIPTFRUS CAMNUS. 472. p. 205. PL. 22. LINFATUS. 471. p. 205. PL. 22. QUINQUELINEATUS. -170. p. 205. CHEIMERIUS. p. 277, CHEIMFRIUS NUFAR. 740, p. 277*. PL, 49. cheirospilos, Anthias, 459. p. 201. Chelidonkhthys capensis, 1083. p. 383. kumu, 1082. p. 383. pueketti, 1084. p. 383. CHELONODON. p. 419. CHELONODON LATICEPS. 1202, p. 419. PL. 95. PATOCA. 1201. p. 419*. CHIAS.MODON, p. 176. CHIASMODON NIGF;R. 377, p. 176*. CHIASMODONTIDAE. p. 176. CHILFNSIS. SARDA, 832. p, 299. PL. 64. ChUhtus chlorurus, 818, p. 294. CHILODAC’TYLIDAE, p. 182. CHII ODACTYLUS. p. 182. Chilodactylus brachydactylus. 398. p. 182. .. brevispinis, 398. p. 182, CHILODACTYl.US EASCIATUS. 397. p. 182. PI . 15. Chilodactylus fzrainlis, 399, p. 183, ,. imdtiradiatus, 397, p. 182. Chiloniycfcrus aniennalus, 1187, p. 416. .. cacruk’us, 1189, p. 416. .. orbicularis, 1189. p. 416, .. parcomaculatus, 1189, p, 416. CHILOSCYLLIUM. pp. 50. 51. C'lIll.OSCYLLIUM GRISF:UM. 32. p. 51*. INDICUM. 33. p. 52*. PLAGIOSUM. 31, p. 51*. C HINFAFRA. p. 76. C HIMAI R.A AFRICANA. 94, p. 76*. MONST'ROSA. 9.3. p. 76. CHIMAFRAE, p. 76. C'HIMAFRIDAE, p. 76, CHIROCFNTRIDAF, p. 87. CHIROCFNTRUS, p. 87. CHIROCFNTRUS DORAB. 104, p. 87. PI . 5. Chirocentrus hypselosouui, 103. p. 87. C HIROCFNTRUS NUDLIS. 103. p. 87. Chirolopbius iusidiafor, 1223. p, 426. .. mutilus, 1222. p. 426. .. quiuqueradiotus. 1222, p. 426. chirfak, l.uliaitus, 663. p. 254. CHFOROPHTHAl MIDAF. pp. Ill, 115. CHLOROPHTHAI MUS. p. 115. CHFOROPHTHALMUS AGASSl/1. 184. p. 115*. Chlorophthabnus productus. 184, p. 115. Chlorophthahnus punctatus. 184. p, 115. CHI OROSTIGM A. FPINFPHFLUS. 445, p. 197. chlorostiqma, Gynuioihorax, 1130. p. 399. ,. Muraena. 1130, p. 399. chlorurus, Cheilinus. 818, p. 294. Chilinus. 818, p, 294. CHLORURUS, THALLIURUS. 818. p. 294, PI.. 61. CHO.ANICHTHYES, pp. 21. 79, Chocrops natalcnsis 771. p. 286. CHONDRICHTHYES. pp. 20. 35. 76. CHOM3ROPUS. SlLLACiO. 469. p. 204*. choram, Bclone, 229. p. 130. Stronizyluro. 229. p. 130. Tylosurus, 229, p. 130. CHORDATA, p. 20. C'HORIDACTYLODFS. pp. 374. 375. CHORIDACTYLODES NATALFNSIS. 1055, p. 375. PL. 83. Choridactyius- natalcnsis, 1055. p. 375, CHORINEMUS. pp. 213. 223. CHORINEMUS LYSAN. 546. p. 224. Chorinenius moadetta, 544. p. 224. CHORINEMUS SANCTIPFTRI. 545. p. 224 TOE. 544. p. 224*. CHORISOCHOSMUS. p. 384. CHORISOCHISMUS DFNTI X. 1086. p. 384. PL. 87. Chorisochismus nudus, 1086. p. 384. Chromatophores, p. 31. CHROMIDES. p. 279. CHROMES, p. 279. CHROMIS DIMIDIATES. 746a. pp. 279, 507. PL. 51. XANTHURUS. 746. p. 279. CHRYSOBLFPHUS pp. 266. 271. CHRYSOBLEPHUS ANGLICUS. 724. p. 272. PL. 48. Chrysoblephwi hifasciatus, 706. p. 266. PL., 44 CHRYSOBLEPHUS CRiSTICEPS, 720. p. 271. PL. 46. GIBBICEPS. 725, p. 272. PL. 46 CHR3’SOBLEPHUS LATICEPS. 721. p. 272. PL. 45. LOPHUS. 723. p. 272. I*L. 46. ,, PUNICE:US. 722. p. 272, PL. 46. chrysophryoides, Caranx, 516. p. 217. Chn sophrys- acsiuarius, 707, p. 267. alifocttsis. 721, p. 272. . auqlicus, 724. p. 272. hcrda, 707, p. 267. .. catanuira, 707, p. 267. CHR't SOPHRYS. CARANX 516. p. 217. Chrysophrys crlsticcps, 720, p. 271. ,. dcntafus, 717, p. 270, iiibbiccps, 725. p. 272. ,. .lilobiccp.s, 708 p. 267. hasta, 707, p. 267. ,. Itiniarius. 718, p. 270. laticeps, 721, p. 272. .. nasutus. 719. [•>. 271. .. natalcnsis. 710, p. 268. puyiccpIuduK. 721. p. 272. punicct/s, 122, p. 272. , robinsoni, 707, p. 267. sarba, 710, p. 268. spinifcr. 715, p. 270. 707, p, 267. ihrysoptcra. Ikdistcs. 1164. |i. 409. CHR> .SOPLLRA. H I M I BA 1 IS I IS. 1164. p, 409. PI . 90. chrysoptcra. Sufflaincn. 1164, p. 409. chrysitpidus. Amphiprion, 748. p. 2K0. C HRYSURUS. C MAI lODON. f>03, p. 2.38*. in . 32. chrysur us. Poniai culrus. 756. p. 281. < huhbi. Plcctorhvnchus. 689. ]i. 262. C HL’BBl. PLUCHUS. 689. p. 262- PL, 42. ciliiuia. Carunx, 518, p . 217. Cll lAI RIS, ALEXTIS. 527. p. 219. PL, 24. ciliaris. lilrpharis, 527. p. 219. Payrus, 715, p. 270, < iliata. Synaptura, 324. p. 162. cinctus. lialistapus. 1170. p. 410. lialistcs, 1170, p. 410. CIMRASC INS. KYPHOSES, 638. p. 246*. cinerascens. Pimclepierus, 638. p. 246, CIM RLLIS, C'ONGI R. INI. p. 393. IM . 99. MURAIM SOX. 1117, p, 394*. cinereus, 1 hcrapon, 4(M). p. 183. cin.vidafurn. (ilyphldodon, 759. p. 282. cimtulaius, Chaclodtui, 6(M). p. 238. cinfiuluni. Coris. 806, p. 292, Julis, 806, p. 292. circularis. Plutophrvs. 316, p. 160. circuli of scales, p. 501. C'IRR A I US. PRISI lOPMORUS, 56. p, 61. cirrhalu^ Prisiis. 56. p, 61. C IRRHIHARBIS. pp. 350. 352. C IRRHIBARBIS CAPENSIS, 977, p. 352* I'L. 77. ('IRRH1MURAE:NA. pp. 388. 389, CIRRHIMLRAINA PLAYEAIRIL lOV'L p. .389. Cirrhiies arcaius, 396. p. 182, .. aureus, 393, p. 181. hleckerl, 393. p. 181. talliurus, 393. p. 181. .. lascialus, 393, p. 181. Hraphidoptcrus. 393. p. 181. i/iilicu^, 393. p. 181. nuiculatus, 394, p. 181. nHiculosus_ 394. p. 181. .. niarmoraius. 394. p. 181. oxycephalus. 393, p. 181. .. pantherinus, 395. p. 181. CIRRHiriCHTHYS, p. I8L CIRRHITICHTHYS APRINUS. 393. p. 181, PL. 14. CIRRHiriDAF, p. 181. t'IRRHITUS. p. 181. Cirrhiius maculatus, 394, p. 181. .. macuhsus, 394. p. 181. COMPOSITE INDEX 519 Cinhilus nidinjoioln'i, p. IHl. CIRRMITLJS IMNNUl.A'I US. .VM, p. ISI. l*t , 14. CIRRHOSA, SCORPAl-NOPSIS. 104.1. p. 171. IM . 85. CIRRlPtC lUS, p. 147. ClRRll’l (TUS CiimtU RONS. 960. p. 147*. KOSIPNSIS. 965. p. 147. IM,. 75. Cirrus, nasal, p. 15*. CllHAROinE;S, p. 156. Cuharoides mdcrolepiiiotu\, 105, p. 157. cn MAROioi;s mac roi i ims, 105. p. 157*. CIIRINUS. CiOllIOnON, 905. p. 110*. Ciluld (iin>pi4\. 505. p. 214. clorkii, Amphiprion. 748, p. 280. Clasper. pp. 15*. 16. C'lass, pp. 17, 20. ClassilicaOon of Mslics. p. 20. C 1 IMACOPORUS. pp. 150. 152. Cl IMAC'OPORUS NAVAl IS. 978. p. 152. PI . 78. Cl INinAI-;. pp. 142. 150. CllNin.Al,, Special nuinerical key to. p. 151. Cl ININAP. p. 150. CMNOPORUS. pp. 151, 158. Cl INOPORLIS HIPOROSUS, ItHIl, p. 158. P! . 82, Cl INliS, pp. 150. 154. Cliutis acutninatus, 991, p. 155. n. l(K)l, p. 157. lotipinni^. 991. p. 155, .. luurt-nlii. 999. p. 157. mcntulis. 998. p. 157. ,. mus. 997, p. 156. .. '>rnatu\. 986, p. 154, .. pavo, UKM). p. 157. ClINUS ROHLSTUS. 987. p. 154* PI. 8|. Clinus roiutuiilruns. UK)2. p. 158. \lriatu\. 981. p. 151. CLINUS SUPl RC II lOSUS. 986. p. ^54V PI 77. i'linus luuru.s. 982, p. 151. .. \enusiri\. 990. p. 155. Clupt^d alruoutht. III. p. 92. kiinavurld. 109. p. 90. '(ivfrt.v. 115. p. 92. Cl UIM 1I>AL. p. 90, vlyprala. tUhenri^. 946, p. 141. CCK'C INIUS. ANTI NN.\Rll S. 1218. p. 411. PI 98. CCK'ClNOTAl NIA. IIPADK IIims. 1088. p, 184. PL 87. CCK CO. Sn c TOPMUM. 19*. p, 120V C(H COTROPSIS. pp. 167, .168 CC'CCOTROPSIS CO MNOni RM A. 1011. p l6N*. CCX'CO I ROPUS. p. 167. CiKCtdrupus iuhuius. 1010. p, 167. CCK'COI ROPUS MONACAN! HUS. 1029. p 167* Cr*clacdnth. sii^ry t>r. pp. 79. 80, C‘iH‘lacanthini. p, 79. I'trlrstinus. (.il\phiUtnion, 762. p. 281 coLLORMy N< ih;s. p. l.M COrLC:>R!!YNC HUS ACANIHIOLR. 211. p. 112 ARCiF NTATUS. 215. p. 112. Ct>el{>rhvnt hus hruueri. 212. p. 112. COFLORHYNC llUS OUNTICULATUS. 214. p. 112. PI. 7. I ASCIATUS. 216. p. 111*. LLAHF LI ISPINLS. 211. p. 112. Ctteldrhyruhuft natulensi'., 214. p. 112. COtLORHYNCHUS PAR Al I F.LLiS, 212. p. 112V coeruleopintuuus, Caranx, 516. p. 217, infruleoputmu(u'<, Dentex. 744. p. 278, C(teru/edpumlaiu'<. Duuope. 666. p, 255. C ()I.RUI.I;()I>UNC TATUS, l-tiPTOSCARUS. 825, P. 296. I>I.. 62. ‘<||•yull•|>ltulH■latm, l.uUanus. 666, p. 255. < ()I:RUI.I:()I>UNCTATUS. POLYSTECiANUS, 744. p. 278. IM.. 49. (.(K'ruleopiinclalus, Siurkh(hy\. 825, p. 296. „ Scants. 825, p. 296. caciulescens, llalisles. 1168, p. 410. C'OI RUl.FUS, (JOMIMIOSU.S, 78.1, p. 288. IM.. 54. ciilax. Ilcmiscyllium. 31, p. 52. Ciild water and mortality from, p. 8. ciilias. PiH'limalaphorus, 819, p. 1(11). ., Scumhcr. 819, p, 1t)0. Colour, pp, 2, II. Colour change in l ishes, p. II. COl.UllRINUS, MYRICinilYS. 1099b. p 50<1*. ciiliihihiiis, ()p/ii\uru\. I()99b, p. 5()<1*. i (t/ltintitic. RhittithtiUts, 61, p. fi4. C OMMIR.SON, SCOMIIEROMORUS, 840, p, 101, IM . 64. C OMMI RSONI. A.MDAS.SIS, 615, p. 245*, itntfmcrsinii, I'nfiraulis, 1 19, p. 94, Hemirhaniphu.s, 222, p. 128. COMMI RSONI. LMALASSOMA, 781, p. 288. C OMMl RSONII. ANC HOVII I LA, 119, p. 94*. ANTF-NNARIUS. 1216, p. 410. IM . 98. t '‘niincrsonii. C'vhiurn, 840, p. 101. .. Sciinihvnitnotus. 840. p. 101. Common Names. Note on. p. 22. C OMPRLSSIC AUOA. 1 Al MOM MOOI S. 258. p. 140*. COMPRI SSUS. C ARANX, 514. p. 216. Comte de C'astelnau. p. 26. i iim iilenafus. l.tu tophrys, 1174 p. 411. 1174. p, 411. ., Hhineuintuw 1174. p. 411. C ONC A 1 1 NA I US. n I ROSOMUS. 1174. p 41 I*. IM . 92. CONC nil 1 R. /I NOPSIS, 269. p. 144 mntttlor, (ivtnnonnirtifna, 1111. p. 199, C ONC C)I OR. UROPI I RYC.H S. IIIV p. 199. IM . 99, C ONCil R. p. 192 C'dfuirr 1112. p. 191, C ONC.l R C INI R I US 1111. p. 191 IM 99. C ONCil R. 1 1 10. p. 192*. C nmriiifuilus. 1111, p. 191, ,, no<>rJ:icki, 1111. p. 191. vu/vuris. mo. p. .192. Convermuriwna alhrsirns, 1111, p. 191. .. tinai’d, 1112, p. 191. dustruiis, till, p. 191. halearica. IHl. p. 19U C ONCilOPODIOAF . pp. 166, 176. C C)NC.IOPOI>i;S. p. 176. C C)NCilOPOI>US SPINII I R 1059. p. 176. PI 84. lORVLiS. 1060, p. 177. PL 84. (.on\:rrllu\ anovi>, 1112. p. 191. C ONC.Rin.AF . pp. 185. 192. Comical teeth, p, 81. itmUlens. lemnmlnn. 547, p. 224. lonttrhvmhus. HhuUi, 99. p. 85. lidispu ilium, Hiilistrs. 1161. p. 408 CONSIMC II I CM. IIAI ISIOIOI S. I IM. p 408 PI . 90, iiinspii ilium. SufNtimrn. 1161, p, 40S ton.srafifKje, Mui'tl, 877, p. 117. Lttnwayi. llople^nathus, 461. p. 201. CONWAYL OPLEGNATHUS, 461, p. 201*. PL. 102. COPEL PARALiPARIS, 1071, p. 180*. Copper Acetate, Shark repellent, p. 17. C'ORACINIDAE, p. 248. CORACINUS, p. 248. CORACINUS CAPENSJS. 644, p. 248*. MULTIF-ASCIATUS 645, p. 249. PL. 14. Citrullicola, Epinephelus, 44()a, p. 506. ,, Plesiops, 410, p. 186. (ORDYLA, MRGALASPIS, 514. p. 221*. CC)RIS, pp. 285, 292. CORIS ANCiULATA. 806, p. 292*. PL. 101. Cori. (Undumhus. lib. p. 287. ,. niyromdi uldlus, 773. p. 286. ittstdtus, C dUiortvmus, 192. p. 181. COSTATUS. PARACALI lONYMUS. 392, p. 181. PL. 14. Co-tjdal lines, p. 14*. COnOIDLS, HIT NNIOMIMUS. 981. p. 151. PI . 78. ioHoide-s. ( linu\. 981. p. 151. COTTUNC ULIDAF . pp. 166. 175. COI TUNC UT Oini S. p. 175. C 01 1 UNC U1 Oini S INLRMIS. 1058. p. 176*. MAC RCX f PHALUS. 1057, p. 376*. SPINOSUS. 1056. p. 176*. C 'dtufuulu-- mat ro( rphdlu'^. 1057. p. 176. spinii'.u't. 1056. p. 176. COUISIl. C R\ PTOI»SARAS. 1229, p. 428* i ra\si\pirtu\. Diusiramma. 690. p. 262. .. Pin ti»rhvnihu\. 690. p. 262, C RI I OIIOAI . p. 174. C Rl NII7F NS. p. 274. irrnidens. Conharias. II. p 41. C Rl Nini NS C R! NIDI NS, 712, p. 2"5. PL 44. Crrntden't torskdhi. 712. p. 275. indnuy. 712. p. 275. C HI Nil AHIS. C RlNIMLCilL. 880. p. 119*. irrniidhi\, Cfue//, 880. p. 119. C RE.NLMUCilL. pp. 317, 118. CRENIMUGIL CRENILABIS. 880, p. 119*. Crenulate teeth, p. 81. criniger. Gobius, 917, p. 314. CRISTATUS. RLENNIUS. 950. p. 141. PL. 76. GOBIUS, 929. p. 116*. SAMARIS. 101. p. 156. PL. 10. TRACHIPTERUS. 264a. p. 142*. CRISTICEPS, CHRYSOBLEPHUS. 720, p. 271. PL. 46. crisliceps, Chrysophrys. 720. p. 271. .. Pd^rus. 720, p. 271. CRISTICEPS. POLYAMBLYODON. 714. p. 275*. PL, 44. 520 COMPOSITE INDEX crisiicepHs Sporu.K. 720, p. 271. CROCODILUS. PLATYCKPHALUS. 1064. p. 378. TYI.OSURUS, 229. p. 1.10. CROSSOPTFRYGll, pp. 21, 79. Crossorhonihus dimorphus, 313. p. 159. \(ihIe-rostrutus\ 313, p. 159. CRUENTATUS. PRIACANTHUS, 403, p. 184. crumenophlhabntis, Cmanx. 503, p. 214. CRUMENOPHTHALMUS, SELAR, 503, p. 214*. CRYPTOCFNTRUS, pp. 329, 332. OCTOFASCIATUS. 914. p. 3.32. PL. 72. C'RYPTOPSARAS, p. 428. CRYPTOPSARAS COUESII. 1229, p, 428*. CRYPTOTOMUS, pp. 295, 296. SPINIDENS. 827. p. 296. PI.. 62. CTENOCHAETUS, pp. 239, 240. CTENOCHAETUS STRIGOSL'S. 614, p. 240. PL. 33. ctenodon, Acaiuhwus, 614. p. 240. Ctenoid scales, p. 84. Cienoirypauchen burbardL 937, p. 338. CUBICEPS. pp. .302. 307. CUBICEPS BREVIMANUS. 857. p. 308*. Cubicep.K aipensix, 856. p, 307. CUBICEPS GRACILIS. 856. p. 307*. Cubiceps i/idicus, 852. p. 306. .. lo/i^inuinus. 857. p. 308. CUBICEPS NATALENSIS. 858, p. 308*. cubUus, Ostracion, 1177, p. 412. CUNEATA. ACANTHOCEPOLA. 465. p. 203. PL. 21. CUNEATA. DICOLOGLOSSA. 331. p. 163*. current, Agulhas, p. 7. current, Benguella. pp. 7, 8. current. Mozambique, p. 7. currents. Ocean, p. 7. CURVIDENS. GYMNOCROTAPHUS. 7.30. p. 274. PL. 47. Cuspidate teeth, p. 83. CUTANEUS. SPHAEROIDES. 1190. p. 417. PL. 95. ci4raneus, Tet radon. 1190. p. 417, Cuts, treatment of, p. 25. Cuvier, p. 26. CUVIER. GALEOCERDO 14. p. 44. PI. 1. cuvieri. Diagramma, 696. p. 263. Pieciorhynchus. 696. p. 263. ., Therapon. 402. p. 184. CYANOPHR’t'S. PSENES. 854. p. .306. CYANOPTERUS. SOLENOSTOMUS. 370. p. 173. PL. 12. CYANOSPILUS SYNGNATHUS. .351. p. 168. PL. 102. lyunostigmaioides, Epinephelus. 423. p. 192, .. Serranus, 423. p. 192. Cyhium connnersonii. 840. p. 301. fiavobrunnewn. 862. p. 310. interruptum. 841. p. 301. .. lineolatus. 841. p. 301. CYCL1CHTH\S. pp. 414. 415. CYCLICHTHYS ANTENNATUS. 1187. p. 416. PL. 92. ECHINATUS. 1188. p. 416*. ORBICULARIS. 1189. p. 416*. SPINOSUS. 1186, p. 416. Cycloid scales, p. 84. CYCLOSPONDYLL pp. 37. 55. cyclosiomus. Parupeneus, 570. p. 230. CYCLOSTOMUS. PSEUDUPENEUS. 570, p. 2.30. CYCLOTHONE. pp. 102. 103. CYCLOTHONE ACCLINIDENS. 147, p, 103. „ LIVIDA, 148. p. 103. „ MICRODON. 149. p. 103*. OBSCURA. 150. p. 103. SIGNATA. 146. p. 103. cylindruu'c. Epinephelus. 440, p. 196. CYMATOCEPS. pp. 266, 270. CYMATOCEPS NASUTUS. 719. p. 27!*. PL. 45. .. Dentition, p. 502*. CYMOLUTES, pp. 285. 295. CYMOLUTES LECLUSE, 820, p. 295. PL. 68. Cymolmes praetextatn.K, 820. p. 295. cynodon, Acropoma. 499. p. 212. ,, Pefrosciries. 960, p. 346. CYNOGLOSSIDAE p. 164. CYNOCiLOSSOIDES. pp. 164, 165. CYNOGLOSSOH'lES DURBANENSIS. 338, p. 165. ECAUl^ATUS. 336, p. 165. PI . 10. CilLCHRISIl. 337, p. 165*. CYNOCiLOSSUS. pp. 164, 165. Cynaglossus aitenunra, 341. p. 166, ,, bilineaius. 341. p. 166. durhanensis. 338, p. 165. ,, canddaruw 336. p. 165. .. gihhri.sii, 337, p. 165. ., hunteri, 339, p. 166. CYNOCiLOSSUS LIDA, 340, p. 166. LINCiUA. 339. p. 166*. Cynoglossus nottdensis. 336 p. 165. CYPRINOIDES. MECiALOPS. 101. p. 86*. Cypselurus cdiipenni.\, 211, p. 125. hewittL 214 p. 126. .. katopron. 211. p. 125. CYPSiLURUS. p. 125. Cypsilurus idiipennis. 211. p. 125. C'tPSILURUS BAMIENSIS. 212. p. 126. PI. 7. EURCATUS. 211, p. 125*. HEWriTI. 214. p. 126. Cypsilurus kaiopron, 211, p. 125. CYPSILURUS NIGRIPENNIS, 213, p. 126. Cyiroides Jacksoni, 268. p. 144. CYTTOIDOPS. p. 143. CYTTOIDOPS MCCULLOC'HL 268. p. 144*. C'r'TTOSOMA. pp. 143. 146. CYTTOSOMA BOOPS. 275. p. 146*. MACULATUS. 276. p. 146. Cyitosonia verrucosus. 277, p. 146. Cyuus hololepis. 272. p, 145. .. iepiolepis. 273. p. 145. .. ntccul/ocfu. 268, p. 144. venirtdis, 268. p. 144. I> DACTYLOPTENA. p. 381, OACTYLOPTENA ORIFNTAI IS. 1076. p. 381*. PL. 84. Doemo/tuintii (diredi. 88, p. 73. DALATIAS. pp. 55. 56. Dalaiius amerkanus. 46. p. 56. brevipinnis. 46. p. 56. DALATIAS LICHA. 46. p. 56*. Dalaiius lichia. 46, p. 56. phillipsi. 46. p. 56. DALATIIDAE. p. 55. DALGLEISHI. ARNOGLOSSUS. 310, p. 158*. dalgleishi. Trichopsena. 310. p. 158. DALGLEISHI. XENOLEPIDICHTHYS. 279, p. 147*. damuranus. Bairachoides. 1220. p. 424. DAMARANUS. CHATRABUS. 1220. p. 424*. Dangers of the shore, n. 24. DARW INI. GEPH'l ROBER'i X, 291. p. 152. PL. 8. DASCYLLUS. pp. 279. 280. DoscyUus alhisella, 751. p. 280. DASCYLLUS ARUANUS. 749. p. 280. PL 50. AXIIT.ARIS. 752. p. 280. Dascyllus himaculaius. 753, p. 280. DASCYLLUS CARNEUS, 750. p. 280. PI,. 50. MARGINATUS, 753, p. 280*. Dascyllus niger. 751, p. 280. ., nigiipi/mis. 753, p. 280. .. reticulutus. 753, p. 280. DASCYLLUS TRIMACULATUS, 751. p. 280. PL. 50. Dascyllus xwuhosama. 753. p. 280. DASSON. pp. .343, 346. DASSON VARIABILIS, 960. p. 346*. PL. 82. i:)ASYAl IDAE, pp. 62. 69. DASYAllS. pp. 69, 70. Dasyatis agulhensis. 81, p. 70. DASYATIS BRIAICAUDATUS, 81, p. 70*. „ PASIINAC'US, 80. p. 70. I>L. 4. PURPUREiUS. 82. p. 71. UARNAK. 79, p. 70. 1*1 . 4. Dasyhaiis agullu'/isis. 81, p. 70. ,, hrevicdiuiulus^ 81. p. 70. pasrinuclius. 80, p. 70. pasliuacus. 80. p. 70. purpurea. 82, p. 71. „ .schreineri. Hi, p, 70. uanutk. 79, p. 70. DASYCJENYS. ABLIDI I DUE , 768. p. 283. PI.. 51. IIEAI MLIDA, OMOllRANCHUS, 956a. p, 507, PL. 76. (leant. Salarias, 970, p. 348. DliANIA. pp. 57. 58. I7EANIA l-:Cil ANTINA. 49. p. 58*. Deania nafaiense. 49. p. 58. quadrisplnosunt. 49. p. 58. 17e:cai*terus. pp. 213. 220. Decapterus kurra. 530, p. 220. DECAl’TERUS LAJANCi. 532. p. 220. PL. 24. Decapterus macrosoina. 533, p. 220. DECAPIE RUS MUROADSl, 533, p. 220. l*UNC rA l LIS. 531. p. 220. RUSSET 1 II. 5.30. p. 220. SANCTAEUi;! I:NAE, 529, p. 220. DeciduDus scales, p. 84. decussalus, Chaetodon, 599. p. 238. [71 I.AC.OAi:. GDBIUS. 930. p. 336*. PL. 55. delagoae, He/nirhaniphus, 220. p. 128. DELAGOAE. H Y E*()RU A M ITl US. 220. p. 128. I»I . 7. NE-MIinr RUS, 672. P. 257. PL. 21. deliigoensis, I leolris, 939, p. 339. .. Ruveitus. 861. p. 309. .. Suntaris. 303. p. 156. delicotulus, Spratclloides. 107, p. 89. DELICATUI US. STOI I PHORUS. 107, p. 89*. delurus. Pamacenlrus. 756. p. 281. I^eniersal eggs, p. 28. DENORDCHIRUS. pp, 369, 374. Dl NDROC IIIRUS BKAC in PH RUS. 10,50, p. 374 PI . 102. ZliiRA, 1049, p. 374. I7F NTATA, PORCOSTGMA, 717, p. 270. I'L. 48 deniatus. Chrysaphrvs. 717. p. 270. Payrus. 717, p. 270. Sparu^. 717. p. 270. Dentcx alhus. 740. p. 277. ., arvyracotuf. 745, p. 278, ., brevis. 741. p. 277. denrex. C aranx. 507, p. 215, [7ENTIX, CHORISOCHISMUS. 1086. p. 384. PI . 87. Deniex meruleopuncfalus, 744. p. 278. hlosus. 740. p. 277. .. lincitputu lulus. 744, p, 278. ., miles. 740. p. 277. nuhtr. 740, p. 277. ., praearhiiaiis, 743, p, 278. rohinsani. 649. p. 250, .. rupeslris. 741. p. 277. .. smiihii. 673. p. 257. .. undulosus. 742. p. 278. vuriubilis. 740. p. 277. DENTICIDAE:. p. 276. DE NTICUI.ATUS. COET.OR H V .NIC II US. 234, p. 132. PL. 7. denficulaiuw Scarus, 823. p. 296. depres.su. Fistulurhi. 361, p. 171. Depth of body. p. 84*. Derutoptera ullredi. 88. p. 73. derniutogenys. .Sv/unluw \1A. p, 112. Dermuiopsis kasougae. 1011, p. 361. DERMATOPSOIDES, pp. 360, 361. COMPOSITE INDEX 521 DFRMATOI'SdIOKS KASOUCiAE. 1011, p. ,161 PI . 82. Dctcrminuiion of uge in fishes, p. 501. devisianu.\. l.ethrinus. 702. p, 264. DFW'AAll, C'lOmUS, 91S, p. Dexiral tiatfislies. p. 154. OiAHOl.US, MOHUl A. 87. p. 7.1*. OIACANTHUS, rriNllMUlUS. 44.1. p. 19(,, PL. 18. Diiuope ulbo^ultatii'^, 666. p. 255. ., heuiiiilensis, 657, p. 254. hovcfisis, 662, p. 254, .. hotti^ncti.sis. 662, ji. 254. .. coeruleopum tatus, 666. p. 255. .. kosmirii, 657, p. 254. .. nu’liOinrn, 662. p, 254. I'ostui, 662. p. 254. sdnin/ifu’ci, 66,1. p. 254. [7IAni VIA. HOI {X't-N I KUS. 296. p. 15.1. PI,. 9. eiicuii'tuci. 881, p. .119. OlAOLMA. PTIHOMUtill. 881, p. 119*. (ii(uU’inarunr. (lohiosonm. 9.15. p. .1.18. (iohius. 9.15, p. .1.18. niAOI MATUS. ANAMPSF S. 785. p. 288. PI . 54. Mi ll RIH (OTRIS, 9.15, p. .1.18. PI.. 7.1, Diciyranrnui crassispinu^, 690, p. 262. 696, p. 26.1. ., tJitif^ftifunui, 696, p. 26.^. diui’ra/ntfup Diuf^rnninui. 696, p. 261 lyiaariimnui durhanvnse 692, p. 262. .. fat’ieUi, 697. p. 26.1. .. viUi'riniis, 694, p. 26.1. ^ri.seu.s, 692, p. 262. ., 696. p. 261. iineaius. 695. p. 261. .. nii^rus', 690. p. 262. .. pH tu\. 688. p. 261. ditt^rait\ma, lUecltnhynchus, 696. p. 261. Dio^nuunui parosa, 849a. p. 104. puru talus, 688, p. 261. rt’fU uldius, 691. p. 262. \(hc/af. 692. p. 262. niA(iRA\1\U S. C'HI MINUS. 817. p. 294*. CiA'TE KIN. 696. p. 261. niANA. LE-.PIOAPI OIS 774. p. 287. PL. 52. DIANl HI S. HAl ICHOLRLS, 789. p. 289. PI . 55. DIAPHANA. lA( TORl.\. 1179. p. 411*. STE RNOPTVX. 158. p. 106. iluiphdnu'^. I .(Utiiphry\. 1179. p. 411, O^rnuion. 1179. p. HI. niAPHUS. pp. 1 19. 121. Diaphds ne(>f. 201. p. 122. niAPHUS FLUCFNS. 201. p. 122*. DiaMtthramhu\ capfn.\i\. 1091, p, 186, niBRANCHUS, p, 427. niBRANC'HUS STJllLlATLS. 1228. pp. 427, 428*. Diihi\tius cape/isis. 644. p. 248. tuh.atu'y. 644. p, 248. 645. p. 249. DICOI OCil OSSA, pp. 161. 161 niCOl (Kil OSSA C'UNLATA. 111. p. 161*. DICOTM K HTHVS. pp 4U. 415 DK'OTVI ICHTH VS PL NC'TUl ATUS. 1185. p. 415 DICROLFNt;. pp. 16(\ 162. DKROLLNL IMROMCiLR. 1015. p, 162*. (iiepenhi>r\fi, Ophii hihx 1 101. p. 190, Dimensional rclaiionships. p. 84*. DIMIDIATUS. CHROMiS. 746a. pp. 279, 507. PL. 51. LISSILABRUS, 805. p. 291. PL. 61. JintiiJiciluw I.cihriodes^ 805. p. 291. dimorphism. Sexual, p. 28. dinrorphus, Crossorhumus. Ill, p. 159. PUunphrys, 111. p. 159. DINEMA. CARANX. 519. p. 217. l>lNOPERCA, pp. 190. 199. DINOPERCA PETERSII. 454. p, 199*. Di/iopcna quckeiii, 454, p. 199 DIODON. p. 414. Idodoit (i/ifennalus, 1187. p. 4}^ ,, ((I'^ru/cuy 1189, p, ■4)6. adori. 1184, p. 415 .. eihinatus. 1188, p, -415. niODON HOI ACAN'niUS, 118,1. p. 415 IIY.SIRIX. 1182,, p, 415*, Dioiltut nuauliilu\. IIRI, p. 414 nionoN MAC'Ul.ii-i R, msi^ ,, 4,4, Drhiai/arii, 1189, p, 4|(j M porcDnuindaiu.s, 118*9, p. 416. punciid(itu\, 1185, p, 415. reliculatu.K, 1184, p. 415, schocpfi, 1186, p. 41)6. ,, spinosissintus. 1181, p. 415. .. spinosu'i, 1186, p. 4|6. niODONLinAL., p. 414. DI PLAC'A NLIIOPOM A. pp. 360, 161. nil>l ACANTIIOI'OMA NICiRIPINNIS, 1021. P. 161*. DIPLOnUS. pp. 266. 269. Diploduy 01()P1C'H 1 ElYS. p. 429. [X)IOPEC'HIElYS CORNUTUS. 1211. p. 429*. IX)RAB. ( EIIROC EMRUS, 104. p. 87. PL. 5. nusus, 117, p, 9.1. IH)R()SOMI[>A[:, p. 91. Dorsal fin. pp. 15*. 81*. dorsale. I halassiatta. 780, p. 287. dorsalis, Chaetodon, 596. p. 217. Clinus, 979. p. 152. DORSAIIS, Ml.'RAE NOC'l INUS. 979. p. 152. PI.. 78. dursalis, Sciaetm, 551. p. 226. .. V'ntiH'r. 526. p. 219. iyoryiohthvs hrach\ uru' , 158, p. 170. Doryrhamphus hrochyurus. .^58. p. 170. draco. Mnhuhi. 87. p. 72. DKAC’ONIS. PEXiASUS. 171. p. 171. PL. 12. DHE PANE-. p. 212. DREPANL PUNCTATA, 576, p. 212*. DRLPAN117AE:. p. 212. lyrepanoscorpis fiiUhristi. 645, p. 249. Drinking, p, 29. DUBIUS. SCOMBROE^S. 496, p. 211*. duhius, Spheroidf’s, 1190, p. 417. [)UCTOR. NAUCRATI.S. 515. p. 221. PL. 24. DUI.E IDAE. p. 187. DL'LEiS, p. 187. Dales unn’nit’us. 412, p. 187. Dales Juscus, 413, p. 187. puamensis, 413, p. 187. ,, ha.swetli, 411, p. J87. ,, marf'inaia.s. 411, p. 187. DUI.ES RUPESTRIS. 411. p. 187*. TAENIURUS. 412, p. 187*. Dales vanicoten.sis, 411, p. 187. DUODECTMI.INEATUS, LUTIANUS. 658, p. 254. PL. 39. duops, Amid. 494, p. 209. ,, Apo^o/i, 494, p. 209. .. Apoyoiiichlhvs. 494. p. 209. DUQUE, MAHIDOLIA, 907. p. 110. PL. 72. darhanen.se, Dia'^ramma, 692, p. 252. .. Plectorhynchu.s, 692, p. 262. DURBANENSIS. C YNCKiLOSSOlDES. 338, p. 165. darhanensis, Cyno^tossas, 138, p. 165. DURBANEiNSIS, CiOBIUS. 915, p. 313*. darhanensis. Hii.sa, 109, p. 90. Macrara, 109 p. 90. .. Mai’Hoaohius, 915, p. 313. ,. Kuitt, 66. p. 66. .SVir^,'//s. 711, p. 268. ,, Seorpaena, 1040. p. 371. .. Scorpoenopsis, 1041, p. 171. DURBANENSIS, SPAR()IK)N, 711, p. 268*. PL, 45. ,, Dcntiiion, p. 502*. darhanensis, Sparas. 711, p. 268. dassumieri, Ainhossis, 617, p. 246. Arias. 164, p. 108. .. Carcharinus, 8. p. 42. DUSSUMIl-RI. EULAMIA, 8, p. 42*. MALMABI.E.NNIUS, 975, p. 149*. PL. 74. dassumieri, Hemirhamphus, 219. p. 127. .. Heputus, 613, p. 240. DUSSUMII RI. HYPORHAMPHUS, 219, p. 127. dassumieri, Julis, 791. p. 289. .. Fimelepleras. 618, p. 246. Plalyfilossus, 791, p. 289. .. Salarias, 975. p. 149. DUSSUMIIRI. SCTAENA, 555. p. 227. TACHYSURUS. 164. p. 108. dus.sumieri, leuthis, 613. p. 240. L mbrina, 555, p. 227, DUX. PE;NTAEX)I:)US. 647. p. 249. DUYMAE RIA. pp. 285, 290. Duvma^rUi filumentosa, 796, p. 290. ITUYMAERIA E I ACiELI EE I RA, 796, p. 290. PI . 56. Duymaeria nemaif/pirra, 796. p. 290. I>ySSOMA, p. 194. DYSSOMA ANCiUU I ARIS. 1116. p. 394. DYSSOMIDAI , pp. 185, 194. I F:ar bone. p. 50! . ecaudafu'', .4reli.Sias. 1.36. p. 165. ECAUDATUS. CY NOCi LOSSDI DE.S. 116. p. 165. PI.. 10. eidudafas. C vnovlossus, 116. p. 165. ECEIE NETDAE, p. 141. ECIH-NI IS. pp, 141, 142. I'.cheneis alhescens. 946, p. 141. brachvpiera. 948, p. 142. ilypeald. 946. p. 141. E (HE NETS NAU( RATES 949, p. 142*. i'.cheneis renutra. 947. p. 14). IiC'HlDNA, pp. 195. 196. ECHIDNA NEBULOSA, 1122. p. 396. PL. 99. POIYO/ONA. 1121. p. 196. PL. 101. ZEBRA. 1120. p. 196. PI.. 103. ECHIDNIDAE. pp. 185. 195. ECHINATUS. CYCLICHTHYS. 1188, p. 416*. echhunus. Diodon. 1188, p. 416. ECHINOCEPHALUS. PA R ACiOBlODON, 908. p. 110. PL. 72. EC'HINORHINUS p. 55. 522 COMPOSITE INDEX ECHINORHINUS BRUCUS, 44, p, 55*. Echinorhinifs ntccoyi. 44. p. 56. .. spinosus. 44. p. 56. ECHIOSTOMA. pp. 98. 99. FX'HIOSTOMA BARBATUM. 1.^5. p. 99*. Echiosronui tonneri, 135, p. 99. FCKLONIAICHTHYS. p. 384. ECKLONIAICHTHYS SCYl.l lORHlNiCEPS. 1087, p. 384. PL. 87. ecornis, Monoceros, 617, p. 241. EDFNTULUS, ALTfCOl'S. 971. p. 348. PL. 75. edeiitu/us, Genes, 628. p. 244. ,, Liog/wthus. 626. p. 243. ,, Saiarias, 971, p. 348. ,, Xystaenta. 628, p. 244. EDWARDS!, H APLOBLFPH ARUS. 39. p. 54*. edwunisi, Scyliiorhinus, 39. p. 54. Eftects of Fishing, pp. 11. 15. Eggs, Demersal, p. 28. .. Pelagic, p. 28. EGLANTINA, DEANIA, 49. p. 58*. ehrenbergi. Manta. 88. p. 73. ehrenbergii, Luiianus. 659. p. 254. ,. Mcsopvion. 659, p. 254. Elacate riiger, 548. p. 225. ELAGATIS, pp. 213. 223. ELAGATIS BIPINNGL.ATUS. 543. p. 223*. PL. 24. Electric organs, pp. 30. 74*. ELEOTRIDAE. pp. 329, 338. ELEOTRIS, p. 339. Eieotris butis. 940. p. 340. .. delagoensis. 939. p. 339. ELEOTRIS EUSCA. 938, p. 339*. Eieotris iimosus. 941. p. 340. ,. ophiocepfnilus, 942. p. 340. ELLOCHELON. pp. 317, 320, ELLOCHELON VAIGIENSIS. 883. p. 320*, ELONGATUS. LAMPANYCTUS, 207, p, 124, OMOBRANCHUS. 958. p. 345. OMOSUDIS. 186. p. 115*. elongatus, Petrosviries. 958. p. 345. ., Pomacentrus. 756. p. 281, ELOPIDAE. p. 85. ELOPS, pp. 85. 86. Elops capensis, 100. p. 86. hamiiiensis. 100. p. 86. .. machmiia. 100. p. 86. ELOPS SAURUS. 100. p. 86*. ELUCENS. DIAPHUS. 201. p. 122*. Emarginate, Caudal, pp. 81*. 82. EMARGINATUM. SPONDYLIOSOM A. 739, p. 276. PL. 47. marginatus. Cantharus, 739. p, 276. .. Caranthu.s 739. p, 276. Pomacentrus. 756. p. 281. EMMELICHTHYIDAE. p. 231. EMMELICHTHYS. p. 231. EMMELICHTHYS NITIDLS. 574. p. 231*. PL. 28. Endemic fishes, p. 9. ENGRAULIDAE, p. 93. ENGRAULIS, pp. 93, 95. Engroulis capensis, 123. p. 95, .. commersoni. 119, p. 94. indicus, 118, p. 94. ENGRAL'LIS JAPOMCUS. 123. p. 95*. Engrou/is mahibaricus, 121. p. 95. ,, setirosiris. 122. p. 95. vitrirosiris. 121. p. 95. ENG Y'PROSOPON. pp. 156. 159. ENGYPROSOPON GRANDISQL AM A. 314, p. 159. „ NATALENSIS. 315, p. 160. VALDE-ROSTRATUS. 313. p. 159*. ENNEACANTHUS, CALI.YODON, 823, p. 296. enneacanthus, Scarus. 823, p. 296. ENNEAPTERYGIUS. p. 359. ENNEAPTERYGIUS OBTUSIRO.STRE. 1007. p, 359. PL. 82. ENNEAPTERYGIUS PUSILLUS, 1006, p. 359. ensi/era. IJognathus, 626, p. 243. entire. Teeth, p. 83. Enioxychirus armatus, 47, p. 57. EPIGONUS. pp. 204, 206. Epigonus macrops. 474. p. 206. ., robustus. 495. p, 210. EPIGONUS TELESCOPUS, 474. p. 206*. EPINEPHELUS, pp. 190, 193. EPINEPHELUS ADSCENSCIONIS. 448. p. 197. PL. 19. Epinephelu.s olhogutlatas, 449, p. 198. EPINFPHEI.US ALBOMARGINATUS. 442. p, 196*. Epinephelu.s anali.s. 422, p. 191. EPINEPHELUS ANDERSONI, 437, p. 195*. PI. 19. „ AREOLATUS. 446. p. 197. PI,, 18. Epinephelu.s argus. 425. p. 192. ,, aurantius, 422, p. 191, EPINEPHELUS CAFRULEOPUNCTA1 US. 450. p. 198. PL. 18, CHI.OROSTIGMA. 445. p. 197. Epinephelu.s coraliicola. 440a. p. 506. ,, cyano.stigmatoides. 423. p. 192. .. cylindricus. 440. p. 196. EPINEPHELUS DIACANIHUS. 443. p, 196. PI . 18. Epinephelu.s di.spar. 451. p. 198. EPINEPHELUS EARIO, 444, p. 197. IM . 19. EASCtATUS, 436, p. 195. PL. 18, FLAVOCAERULELiS. 4.13. p, 195. PL. 17. EUSCOGUTTATUS. 451. p. 198. PI . 19. Epinephelu.s gigas. 435. p. 195. .. gilberti. 440, p. 196. EPINEPHELUS GRAMMATOPHORUS, -134, p. 195*. PL. 18. .. CiUAZA. 435. p. 195. PI, IS. F.pinephelus hemistktus. 424, p. l‘J2. .. he.xagonatus, 439. p. 196. .. ianthinopterus. 421. p. 191. .. kendalli, 425. p. 192. lanceolatus. 452, p. 198. lunaria, 420. p. 191. EPINEPHELUS MACROSPILOS. 440.i. p. 506. PL. 19. F.pinephelus maculaius. 423, p. 192. ,, nuuulatus. 444. p, 197. .. mahibaricus. 447. p. 197. EPINEPHELUS MEGACHIR. 440. p. 196. I*L, 17. F.pinephelus rneleagris, 451, p. 198. EPINEPHELUS MERRA, 4.39. p, 196. PI.. 18. Epinephelus microdon. 451. P. 198. .. mi/iiatu.s, 423. p. 192. EPINEPHELUS MODESTUS. 441. p. 196. MORRHUA. 438. p. 196. PL. 18. Epinephelus muliinotalus, 447. p, 197. myriaster. 425. p. 192, .. polysiigma. 449. p. 198. .. praeopercularis 438. p, 196. ,. reticulatus. 449, p. 198. .. rngaa, 420, p. 191. .. rnseus. 422, p. 191. .. salmnnoides. 447. p. 197. sonnerali. 421. p, 191, EPINEPHELUS SPIMGER. 412. p. 194*. Epinephelus .siellans. 4.39. p. 196, ,. stellatus. 439. p. 196. EPINEPHELUS SUMMANA. 449. p. 198*. TAUVINA, 447. p. 197*. PL. 19. Epinephelus lumilahris. 449. p, 198, wandersii. 445, p. 197. EPINNULA. pp. 309. 311. EPINNULA ORIENTALIS, 865 p. 3ll*. Equula argeniaria, 627, p. 244. EQUULA. CARANX. 415, p. 216. Equula equulaeformis, 627, p. 244. EQUULA, LEIOGNATHUS. 626, p, 243*. equula, Liognathus, 626. p. 243. equulaeformis, Equula, 627, p. 244. .. Ga:za, 627, p. 244. ERIOMMA. PARASCOLOPSIS, 686. p. 261. i>l . 41, eriomma, Seoiopsis, 686. p. 261. l;rumi:i. psli lodes. 299. p. 155*. Eryihrodon iiiger. 1155. p. 407. erythrodon, Odmuts, 1155, p. 407. ervlhropterus. l.utianus. 663, p. 254. .. Me.soprion, 663. p. 254. liSQUIVI l. TAENlOIDliS, 904, p. 330. PL. 70, Ivstuaries, tides in. p. 14, ETM IS. p. 251. liTEl IS CARBUNCUIUS. 651, p. 251. PI. 36. Eteiis evurus, 651. p. 251. .. mar\hi. 651, p. 251, ,, zonalus, 654. p. 252. I THIOPS I RIACAN'i nOI'JI^S. 1136. p. 400*. I I MOPTERLIS, pp. 57. 58. ETMOP'M'RUS (iRANULOSUS. .50, p. 58*. 1 UCIEl R. 52. p. 59*. SIMNAX. 51. p. 59*. I IRUMI-US. p. 88. Efrumeu' iacksonensis. 106, p. 88. 1 TRUMliUS MIt'ROPUS, 106, p. 88*. eugeniiis. Gohiomorphus, 935a. p. 507. I U(il NIUS. HI ri KLI I (VI RIS. 915a, p. 507. I'l . 101. eugeniu.s. {)uistiis. .\fuqil. 890. p. 323. EURONOTUS. 1 R \( H> SIOMA. 890. p. 323* E-USEI ACTlIi. p. 35. LUSTOMIAS. pp. 98. 99. EUSVOMIAS MUM RUM. 134. p. 99*. LUllM NNUS. pp. 297. 298, rUTHVNNUS Ai M II RA‘!US, 830. p. 298. PI . 65. PI I AMIS. 829, p. 298, PI. 65. eviiniilus. Pseudoiheitinus. 819. p. 294, i'.venchelvs niainnus, 1 123. p. 396. evolans, l.\i>coeiu\. 210. p. 125. Hahuvpselus. 210, p. 125. evurus. Eteiis. 6.5 1 , p. 251. I XOCOETIDAE. p. 124. ( \(K OF TOIDI A, p 124 I XOCOETUS. p. 125, E.\(m>eius hahiensis, 212. p. 126. evolans. 210. p. 125. tnento, 215. p. 126. 1 XOCOETl S VOI IIANS, 210, p. 125*. E.xplosion'., U^dcr^^a^er. p. 32. e.xtet'sus. Sioleph'irus. 120, p. 94, eselid. Adipose, p. 81*. I I Alii R. /t US. 270. p. 144*. laetehi. Diagroinma. 697. p. 263. I AHELA. (.ATIRIN, 697. p, 263*. hieiela. Plei torhvm hus. 69"^ p. 263. L AI.C A II S- ( 1 N I ROMIOLOIDI S. 871. p. 313. lulcatus, Dithistius. f>44. p. 248. Plfr\i,>,nbt4s. K71. 313. EAi.ClEORMIS. MONODACrvi US. 580. p. 233. PI . 29. EALCULA. CHAETODON. 597. p. 237*. FALLAX. ABUDEEIiUE. 767. p. 283. lalhtx, (ilyphidodon. 767, p. 283. Pinielepteriis, 639, p, 247. Family, pp. 17. 18. lunfarus, .\aucrates, 535. p. 221. COMPOSITE INDEX 523 far. IIEMIRHAMI'HL'S, 222, p. 128*. I>l.. 7. FARIO. r:l>INi;i>HELUS, 444, p. 197. PI.. 19, FASCIATUM, STI-XiOSTOM a. 30. p, 51*. !M,. 2. I'ASCIATUS. CHILODAC'TYLUS, .197. p. 182. PL. 15. /(iscidiu'^- Cirrhites, .193. p. 181. FASCfATUS. (’OHLORHYNClll)S. 236, p. 133*. fiisciafu^. Corylhoichihys. 354, p. 169. FASC IATUS. FPINFPHfX.LIS. 436, p. 195. PI. 18. HI^MlCiYMNUS, 787, p. 288. PI.. 61. f(isciii(n'-> fleinirhaniphus, 222, p. 128. llepatus. 608. p. 240. Holoyyniriosuw 810, p. 292. Ophisiirus. 10990, p. 509. FASCIATUS, STROMATIUIS, 846. p. 303. SYNCiNATHUS. 354. p. 169. fuMidfn':. I'ci/lhis, 608, p. 240. FASC'KJULA. Ill 1:NN11]S. 951, p. 344*. PL. 76. FASCIOLA. IDIACANFIIUS. 143. \\ 102. I'diirei, Apistus. 1051, p. 374. FACKFI. [.rpinoi RKil.A, 1077, p. 382. Idvdyineu'^. (lyninothord.w 1127. p. 398. FA\ ACilNFXiS. I.YC'OOON I IS. 1127, p. .198*. f'd'.'dyim’U'<. Sturdcniy 1127, p. 398. fax. Pr'uHdnthiis. 404, p. 184. Features of Bony Fish, p. 81. tt’licep'-. Ci\U'>. Hh'nm’chi\, 961, p. 346. Chaeloiltni. 592. p. 237. O'crrfv. 628, p. 244. Mcyahips. 101. p. 86. Pdi'ru'^. 716. p. 270. Felrosi irtec. 961. p. 346. FILAMFNTOSCS. PRISTIPOMOIDI S. 653. p. 252. PI . 36. fildntenio\u^. Pierayoywi. 796. p. 290. Sparu^, 716. p. 270. Xysldcma, 628, p. 244. Filaments, gill, p, 83* FILIFIRLM. FUSTOMIAS. 134. p. 99*. hlHerum. Senstomias. 134, p. 9g, Flt.lFFRCS. BATHI PTFROIS. 182, p. 114. fihsu'i. Di’niex. 740. p. 277. fin. anal. pp. 35*. 81*. 82. .. caudal, pp. 35*, 81*. 82. .. dorsal, pp. 35*. 81*. 82. .. pectoral, pp. 35*. 81*, 82. .. peKic. pp. 35*, 81*. 82. .. ventral, p. 82. Fins, functions of. p. 81. paired, p. 82. vertical, p. 82. FISHFRL CF;N7R0PY(,F. 588. p. 235. PI. 30. fisheri. ffolacanlhu'^, 588, p. 235. Fishes, to identify, p. 34. Fishing. elTects of. p. 15. Jiskii. Eumechhlhvs. 267. p. 143. FISKIL LOPHOTES, 267, p. 143*. Jiskii. Lophotopsis. 267, p. 143. FISSILABRUS. pp. 285, 291. FISSILABRUS DIMIHIATUS. 805. p. 291. PF. 63. FISTCLARIA. p. 171. f istularia (U'piessa, 361, p. 17| I ISTULARIA RlniMHA. .16l’ p hslularia serraui. 362. p. |7| USTULARIA VII.I.OSA, ,362 p I ISTULARIIDAI-., p 171 MT/.SIMONSI, HALIBUTEa I’l.. 97. I7i. 171. 1226, I'L. P- fitzstmonsi. Halu'utkhlhvs. 1226 p 4'>7 h.abi:llispinu.s, coflormynchus P. 132. M AGFFLIFFRA. nUYMAFRIA 796 n PL. 56. ■ fht.iielhmi. Aeiohads. 74. p. 68, Flap, nasal, p. 35*. fldvcscens, Clniciodon. 600, p. 238 fidvicauda. Hohicanihus. 588, p. 235 Hdvimoryinaia, iiyninolhorax. 1128, p. .398. -• Muraend. 1128. p. 398. fhivhmiryi/uifns. lialistcs. 1167. p. 409, •* Serrciniis. 426, p. 192. ” P5. PI. 17, Hdvolincdtus. Mtdioidcs, 572, p. 231. fidvonuiryiiHitus, HdHsies. 1167. p. 409. (iymnoihDidx. 1128. p. .398. 1 LAVOMARCllNATUS. FYCODONI IS 1128 p 398. PL. 100. l{dyomL. 22. FLORFNIIAF. NASOLYCHnUS, 202, p. 122* JiorentH. Mvcfnphum. 202, p. 122. doremulus. (ilvphidodon, 759, p, 282, fluviahlis. bfi.onich imys. 359, p. 170*. tiuvidlilis. SvnvndiHus. 359, p. 170, lOFDUS. AUSTROBA 1 RA('H US. 1218. p, 423. PL. 96. fdedu\. Pscudi)bairai hu\. 1218, p. 423. Fold, labial, p. 35. force. Ciraviiational. p. 13. FORCIPKU R. p. 236. FORCIPKiFR I ONCilROSlRiS. 589, p. 236. PL, 31. Forked caudal, p. 82. f'lirmio niiier. 500, p. 212. fi>rmr;s. 809. p. 292. Idrniosu'. (lymndthorux. 1128. p. 398. Muraena. 1128. p. 398, farnasini. lAUfi>phrv\. 1180, p. 413. FORNASINI. LACTORIA. 1180. p. 413*. PL. 92. Ii>rna\ini. ()\tracion, 1180. p. 413. !t)rskr\{eri. Caranx, 511. p. 216. FORSTERl. PARAClRRmrr.S. 395. p. 181. PI . 14. Fowler. M. W’.. p. 26. /raydi^. Sceptarias. 495a, p. 2l0. /ranzid ajfini'-. 459, p. 201. urdern. 459, p. 201. rubra. 459, p. 201. fraierculus. Parupeneus. 564, p. 229. FRATFRCULUS, PSLUDUPl NHUS. 564, p. 229. PL. 27. trenatus. Aniia. 484. p. 208. FRFNATUS, APOCiON, 484. p. 208. PL. 22. frerei, Coris. 809. p. 292. E-'resh water, p. 29. 1RF:YC1NETI. STFPHANOLEPIS, 1142. p. 403*. FRIGIOUS. LYCODES. 1026. p. 365*. 1 RONTK'INCTUS, AMANSES. 1145. p. 404. PL. 88. Ironiicinitus. .\fonacanfhus. 1145. p. 404. fronlicornis, Monoceros, 616. p. 241. Naseus. 616. p. 241. FUCOMI.MUS, pp. 350, 356. FUCOMIMUS MUS, 997, p. 356*. PL. 79. fucorum. Clinus. 996. p. 356. FUCORUM, MYXODES, 996, p. 356. PL. 81. FULIGINOSUS, ACANTHURUS, 611. p. 240 PL. 33. Jidigino.sus, liepatus. 611, p. 240. „ Teuthis, 611, p. 240. FULVIELAMMA. LUTIANUS, 659. p. 254. PI.. 38. J'ulvofiultatu.s. Cara/if'oide.s, 522. p, 218. FULVOGUTTATUS, CARANX, 522, p. 218. PL. 25. fulvoniarf’inala. fkirnardichlhys, 329, p. 163. 1-ULVOMARGINATA. SOLEA. 329, p. 163. PI . 11. FU.MOSUS, BATUYGAOUS. 247. p. 136. Functions of fins, p. 81. furcdtu/n, Pomadasys, 682, p. 260. FURCATUS. CYPSILURUS. 2M. p. 125*. lureaius, HoUwihias. 456, p. 2(X). tusea. Amid. 486. p. 208. FUSCA, ELFOTRIS. 938, p. 339*. FUSCOCiUTTATUS, EPiNEPHEiLUS. 451, p. 198. PL. 19. fuscoyiinatus. Serranus. 451, p. 198. fuscc/i/ieata. Sciaena, 555. p. 227. „ Utnbrina. 555, p. 227. Juscomacuhna. Lactophrys. 1180, p. 413. Osiracion. 1180, p. 413. FUSCUS, AI>OGON, 486, p. 208*. APSILUS, 656. p. 253*. hiscus, Balisies. 1168. p. 410. FUSCUS. BATHYCiOBlUS, 910, p. 331. P! . 71. fuscus. Centroscvmnus, 48. p. 58. Duhs, 413. p. 187. ,, K\phi)\us. 639, p. 247. Ophichihys, 1097, p. 389. Pinieleplerus, 639, p, 247. FUSCUS. PSEUEX)BALISTE-:S. 1168. p. 410. PL. 91. SALARIAS. 969, p. 348, fuscus. Sphayebranchus. 1097. p. 389. FUSCUS. THALASSOMA. 782, p. 288. Pi.. 53. GAI7IDAF. pp. 131. 136. yahm. Hepatus. 612. p. 240. Teuthis. 612. p. 240, (iAlDR01>SARUS. pp. 137. 138. (iAIDROPSARUS CAPFNSIS. 252. p. 138*. C;aIMAR[>. CORIS. 809, p. 292. PF. 58. Galeichlhvs ater, 165, p. 109. ,. feliceps, 165, p. 109. ncellaius. 165. p. 109. GALE-.OCEREX). pp. 40. 43 Galeocerdo arcticus. 14. p. 44. (iALEOCEREX) CUVIER. 14. p. 44. PL. 1. Galeocerdo rayneri. 14. p. 44. .. fiyrinus. 14. p. 44. GALEOREilNlDAE. pp. 39. 40. (iAFEORElINUS. pp. 40. 44. Galeorhinus canis. 15, p. 44. (jALFORUINUS CLALEUS. 15. p. 44*. GALEUS. GALEORHINUS. 15. p. 44*. yallus. Caranx, 528. p. 219. yanyetiius. Carcharias, 9. p. 42 yardineri, 4mia. 494. p. 209. 4pt)yon. 494, p. 209. Apoyoniihihys. 494. p. 209. GARDINERl. CALLIURICHT H YS, 391, p. 180. GARMANI. HETERONARCE. 90. p. 74*. yorretti. Lutianu.s. 664, p. 255. ,, Mesoprion. 664, p. 255. ,. Monoceros. 617. p. 241. GASTEROCHISMA, pp. 300, 302. GASTEROCHISMA MELAMPUS, 844, p. 302*. GASTROPHYSUS, pp. 416, 417. GASTROPHYSUS LUNARIS, 1195. p. 418. PL. 93. 524 COMPOSITE INDEX GASTROPHYSUS SCELFRATUS. 1194. p. 418. PL. 94. SPADICEUS. 1196. p. 418. PL. 9.■^. Gastrotokeus hiucuU'oius, if'l, p. 169. GATERIN. p. 262. GATFRIN OIACJRAMMUS. 6‘16. p. 26,L FAETELA. 697, p. 263*. GATERINUS, 694, p. 26.3. PL. 42. LINEATUS. 695. p. 263*. RETICULATUS. 693. p. 262. PI.. 42. SC'HOTAF. 692. p. 262. PL. 42. gateriiius, Diojiramma, 694. p. 263. GATERINUS. CiATFRIN. 694, p. 263. PL. 42. ijaterinus. Plectorhynchus. 694. p. 263. GAZZA. p. 243. Guzzo aryentdr'ui, 627. p. 244. .. cquuUtetornu.s. 627, p. 244. GAZZA MINUTA. 627, p. 244. PL. 35. GELATINOSUM. MFLANOSl IGMA. 1025. p. 365*. gofibra. l.utiamts, 664. p. 255. Mesoprion. 664. p. 255. GEMPYLIDAE. pp. 297, 309. GEMPYLUS. pp. 309. 310. CiEMPYLUS SERPENS. 864, p. 311*. CJeneral Notes about Fishes, p. 28. GFNI\'ITTATUS. LFTHRINUS. 699. p. 264. Genotype, p. 18. Genus, pp. 16. 18. GENYPTFRUS. p. 364. GENYPTFRUS CAPENSIS. 1023. p. 364. PI.. 87. geometricu.s. Holaconthus. 585. p. 235. GEPH'i'ROBER'i X. pp. 151. 152. GEPH'i'ROBFR't X DARWINL 291. p. 152. PL. 8. ORBICULARIS. 292, p. 152*. GERMANE' M. POLY A M BL YOOON. 735. p. 275*. gernuwuK, Pachynietopon, 735. p. 275. GERMO. pp. 297. 299. GERMO ALALUNGA. 836, p. 299. PL. 66. ALBAC'ORA, 835. p. 299. PL. 66. Gi’r/no cil/ixoni. 835. p. 299. GERMO ITOSIBI. 8.34. p. 299. PI. 65. Gernto nuicropierns, 835. p. 299. GERREiS, p, 244. GERRES ACINACES, 631. p. 244. Gerres carinaiu.s. 633. p. 245. .. edentulu's. 628. p. 244. .. _fi/ci/nenrosifS. 628. p. 244. f’.igas. 633. p. 245. .. iineoUuus. 629. p. 244. .. longiro'iTri.s, 629. p. 244. .. macnica/irhus. 628. p. 244. GERRES OBLONGUS. 633. p. 245. OYENA. 629. p. 244 PL. 35 POETl. 6.30. p. 244 PUNCTATUS. 628. p. 244*. RAPPI. 632. p. 245. GERRIDAE. p. 244. GH.ANAM, SCOLOPSIS, 685. p. 260. PL, 41. GIBBICEPS, CHRVSOBLEPHLS, 725 p. 272 P[ . 46. eihhkeps. Chrysophrys. 725, p. 272. Pcigruy 725. p. 272. .. Selene. 526. p. 219. Sporu.\. 725. p. 272. GIBBICEPS. VOMER, 526. p. 219*. GIBBIFRONS. ALTICOPS. 970a. p. 508. PL. 75. CIRRIPECTUS. 966. p. 347*. gihhijrony. Salarias. 970a. p. 508. gibboso. Harenvula. 1 14. p. 92. Sordine/ia. 1 14. p. 92. GIBBOSA. SCORPAENOPSIS. 1042. p 371 PL 85. OIBBOSUM. POLYAMBLYODON. 733. p. 275. gibbdsus, La(tophry\. 1175. p. 412. .. O.Jracion. 1175. p. 412. Pachymeiopon. 733. p. 275. Rhinesomus. 1175. p. 412. GIBBOSUS. TETROSOMUS. 1175. p. 412*. GIBBUS. LUTIANUS. 662. p. 254. PL. 37. GIBSON-PACEl. OPOSTOMIAS. 1.36. p. ItX). gigas. Fpinephelu.s. 435. p. 195. ,. Genes, 633. p. 245. „ Scomber. 839. p. 300. giiherli. Fpinephelu\. 440, p. 196. Gilchrist. J. D. F.. p. 26. GIl.CMRISTELLA. pp. 88. 89. GILC'HRLSTELLA AESTLIARIUS. 108. p. 89* gilchristi. Choscdnopseilo. 306. p. 157. GILCHRISTI. CYNOGl ('ISSOIOES. 337. p. 165*. gUfhrisli. Cvvjo.s'/o.v.vw.v, 337, p. 165. .. Drepmioscorpis. 645. p. 249. Gohius, 927. p. 336. GllCURlSTl. MOPLOSTE.THUS. 289. p. 151*. TRlPTFROinn C IS. 250. p. 137* CiilLarclies, p. 83*. (jill-tilaments, p. 83*. Ciill-openini: restricted, p. 83. C'lill-rakers, p. 83*. (iill-slits. p. 35*. Cill LIAS. p. 359. CJILLIAS CAPENSIS. 1005. p. 359 GIURIS. CJOBIUS. 919, p. 334. PI . 73. Cilaciation. p. 10. gladiu\. Hislit>p/ioru.\, 874, p. 315. Ca.Al^lUS. ISTIOPHORUS, 874. p. 315. PI . 67. XIPHIAS. 873. p. 314. PI . 67. Gloitcosoma peaolopesi. 456. p. 2(K). glaucwK. Pochvmetopon. 738. p. 276. gUirntts. Abudeltluf. 769. p. 284. .. Carcharinus. 10. p. 42, ., Glyphidodon, 769. p, 284. C'.LAUCUS, CiLYPMIS. 10. p, 42*. glaucu.s. Furopsis, 28. p. 50. GLAUCUS. ISURUS. 28. p. 50. PL. 1. Ca.ESNE. REGALEC'US. 263, p. 141. PI. 13. globicepw .4u.\tro.\pcini\. 708. p. 267. .. Chrysophrys. 708. p. 267. Ca_OBlCEPS. lAEMONFMA. 254. p. 138*. RHABDOSARC.US, 708. p. 267*. globiccps. Spurns. 70S. p. 267. Glyphidodon un[ieriu\. 769. p. 2K4. h(dinensis. 769. p. 284. hiocelhttus. 769. p. 284. .. brownriggi. 769. p. 284. .. I 'mguhttum. 759. p. 282. .. coelestinu',. 762. p. 283. faUu.\. 767. p. 283. fioreniuius. 759 p. 282. giuucus. 769. p. 284. .. hemimelu\. 769. p. 284. lucrymaius. 764. p. 283. ieucopleura. 760. p, 282. .. l(‘uti>zi>nu. 759. p, 282. nirt>\u\. 76*^ p. 283. punctuhnu'-. 769. p. 284. rn\sii 769. p. 284. stixtifalF. 761. p. 283. Siulptu'^, 766. p. 283. ^e.\fas( 762. p. 283. umten\i\. 755. p. 281. \ordidus. 760. p. 282. spuroides. 765. p. 283. lynihilli. 761. p. 283. 761, p. 283. .\unrhuru'-. 763. p. 283. CJL'i PHIS. rp. 40. 42. CjLYPMIS GLAUCUS. 10. p. 42*. Gitathanodto! \pecio\u'*. 506. p. 215 GNATHODENTFX. p 249 GNATHODENTEX AUROl INEATLS. 648. p. 2.^0. PI . .16. GNATHOPLS. HOPLOBRGTLLA. 1017, p, 16:. PL. 87. GNATHOSTOMATA, p. 20. GOBIESOCIDAE. p. 184. GOBIICHTHYS. pp. 129. 111. GOBIICHTHYS LEMAYI. 913, p. 111. PL. 69. GOBIIDAE, p. 329. GOBIODON. pp. 329, 130. GOBIODON CITRINE'S. 90,S, p. 3.10*. GOBIOini A. p. 329. in>hioinorphu\ 935a. P- 507. prolumlus. 93,5a, p. 507. (io/tiorii’llns lontholiis, 91,3a, p. 507. (inhioMirnii liitiiirnititmii, 935. p. 338. GOBIES, pp. 329, 332. GOBIES ACU I lI’l'NNIS. 923. p. 33-5. AI-NI-OI ESC'ES. 925, p. 335. PL. 70. AGEI IIENSIS, 924, p. 335*. Al HOMACL'I A I US, 933. p. 337*. alhi’vitHtidfs, 917. p. 334, GOBIES BIBARHAIES, 934. p. 337*. (iohtu'i atpcn\is, 927. p. 336. GOBIES CAPI.SIRAIES. 931, |i, 337. PI. 72. I'inhius iTimt’i'i, 917, p. 334. GOBIES CRISLAIES, 929. p. 336*. nl lAGOAl , 930. p. 336*. PI . 55 ni WAAl.l. 918. p. 334. (it)biu\, 935. p. 338. GOBIES IIERHANI NSIS, 915, p. 333*. Gohiu'.. gihhrhti, 927. p, 336. OOBIES GIURIS, 919, p. 334. PI. 73. INIIACA. 923a. p. 507. PI . 101. Kl II NSIS, 928. |V 336. PI 70. Kl Y, 916. p. 333. PI 70. MAXIIIARIS, 915a, P- 333*. MIT ANOCI PHAI ES, 926. p. 335. (iithiin 927. p. 336. (lOBIES NI BL'IOSUS. 917, p. 3 34. PL. 71. Gobiu'> ninhuli\. 62^. p. .L^6. OOBIES Nl OK I PS. 927, p. .3.36*, PI 71. {iobiu\ (divuceus. 027. [■>. .Vai. .. puouensis. 01, Ut. p, 507. pcler\cnii. 01. Ui. p 507. GOHIUS ROlA NI MA. 020. p .V^4*. G<>hius '-ohlhumi. 0I2. p- .LH . GOHIUS SIGNATUS. 022. p. .'^*5, SPI NCL. 021, p, 3.U^*. STAGON, 0.^2, p. .157. IM . 70. Gobiu\ vimboiidei. 0,1.1. p. .1.17. gobhhorunghi. Gvnimdhoruw lt24a. p. 510. (iOl OSBOROUC.IIL I YC0I>0NT IS. I 124,i.p.510. PI . 100. g.diafh. OUgoru^. 452. p. 108. GOMPMOSUS. pp. 285. :88. (rOMPHOSUS COl RUl L.US. 78.1. p. 288, PI 54. VARIUS. 784. p. 288. IM 54, t.ONOKin N( H1I7.M . p 87 (JONORin N( HUS. p. 87 GONOKinSt HUS C.ONORin'NC Ml S 102. p- 87*, PI, 5, Gi>n0. PI . 82. M AC RORH AMPHOSl S. 165. p. 171*. Ml I ANONUS. 261. p. 140*. SALRIOA. 175, p 11.1. Sdl(ig<>. 468. p. 204. grmiJi\pinu\. IFdmentrus. 207. p. 155. gruniinF. C linu\. 1(8)1. p. 557. (iR AMMAIOIMIORl S. liMNIPlfMLS. 414. p. 105*. PI 18. (iR AMMK ()I 1 PlOAl pp. 141. 147. C,R AM MISTFS. p. 100. (irummh(e\ <>rieniidi\. 418. p. 100. GRAMMISTES SEXMNFAIUS. 418. p. 190. PI . 16, C.RAMMONOIOFS. pp. .160. 562, (iRAMMONGIOESGPlSTHODON. 1016, p, 162*. (ir(immiinu\ opisihodoti. 1016, p. .162. (iruninii>plde\ pristis. 1067. p. .170. COMPOSITE INDEX 525 CiRANDE, F'ACHYMETOPON, 718, p. 276. PL. 47. GRANniIJIERI, PI.ATYCEPFIAI US, F065, p. 378. PF.. 86. S^^'lcUs, Chilodaclytu';, ,199. p. 181. (itnioMonid, !5I. p. 104. <^l4. p. 255. ,. M<>sI-,NI.ANI)IC'US. HIMAN'IOl.OPlIUS, 1230, r- 429*. (/(inorhyni hi4'.. 102. p. 87. .. /Someus. 855. p. 307. Growih ,>F' FisFics, p. .lOF. GrowlFi oF’ st:ales. p. .101, mtn,ensh. Duh’,. 411, p. 187. (FUAMF NSIS, SCORPAF NOF)i:S, 1044a, p. 172*. Fiuanin. pp. 11. 141 GUa/,A. 1 PlNl.PllF I us. 41.1. p, 191. PI . 18. GUI-NIIIF RI, I’ARAPKIAUANFFFUS. 640, p. 247*. SF l AC llOPllinil M. 1018, p. 162*. (FUNllll Rl. ( FIAI FODON. 604. p. 2.19". mnlheri. .SrUinhi-s. 1016, p, 170. (FUORAKA. POMADASYS, 674. p. 257*. Xuitruka. /*ristiptifna, 674. p. 257. Alypit^onia. 407, p, 185. (iU'T TA I ISSIMUS. CllAF KIDON, 602. p. 218. f’l . 32. GU I lATUS, ( Al l YODON. 824. p. 296. PI . 62. xurr(jtu\^ P\t'ne\. 852. p. 306. S(aru\, 824. p. 296. (iYMNOBAIRACHUS. p. 423. muriieno to/milor. 1133. p. 399, marmnruto. 1134. p, 399. Iivnna. M3:, p. 399. xtimhoptrrus. 1134. p. 399, (i\t*in'>\iirila tiHeterntii. 830, p. 298. prl(iniv\, 829, p. 298. cypselus fvolans, 210. p. 125. HALOPORPHYRUS. pp 137. 138. HALOK)RPHYRUS CAPENSIS. 255. p. 139. NATALENSIS. 256. p. 139V HALOSAURIDAF. p, 1 10. HALOSAUROPSIS. pp. HO. 111. HALOSAUROPSIS AFEISIS, 17!. p. HIV MACROCHIR. 170, p. 111. halosaurus. p. no. HAI.OSAURUS OVENIL 169. p. MOV Halasuurus oneni. 169. p. 110. HALSYDRIDAE. pp .39, 47. HAl.SYDRUS. p. 47. HALSYORUS MAXIMUS. 23. p. 47V HAMRUR. PRIACANTHUS. 406. p. 185 PI . 15. HANOfMANCTUS. pp. 401, 403. HANOMANCTUS BOVINUS. 1143, p. 403*. Hapalogenys peiersii. 454. p. 199. HAPLOBLEPHARUS. pp. 52. 54. HAPLOBLEPHARUS EDWARDSI. 39. p. 54*. HAPLODACTYLUS. SCORPAENA. 1038. p. 371. HAPLODOCl. p. 422. haplostoma, L'nmoscopus, 378. p. 176. HAPLOSTOMIAS, p. 98. HAPLOSTOMIAS TENTACULATUS 132, p, 98*. HARAK lETHRINUS, 701, p. 264. PL. 43. HARDWlCKE. THALASSOMA, 780. p. 287. PL,. 53. HARENGU'I A. PP- 50, 91. Hare-, aula gWbosa. FI4, p. 92. tytoluccensis. III, p. 91. HARENGULA OVALIS. ill, p. 91. Harengu/a punclala. III. p, 91. HARENGUL-A VITTATA, 112, p. 91'-. HARRFOTTA. p. 77. HurrioHa pituuita, 96, p. 78. F-IARRFOTTA RALEFGFFANA. 96, p. 78*. husta, ChrV.WPbryi, 707, p. 267. HASTA. pOMAF^ASYS. 676, p. 258*. hasla, Pristipv"'"’ ^76, p, 258. haswelli. Dales. 413. p. 187, huumela. TricMurus. K69, p. 313. hawaiten-ih, Etaps. 100, p, 86. Morinf'ua, 1094a, p. 508. Head, I.ength of, p. 84*. Hearing, p. HF.BRAICUM. THAI-ASSOMA, 778, p. 287. PL. 53. HECTORIS, LAMPANYCTUS, 208. p. 124. Helco^'rumma ohtu.siornsire, 1007, p. 359. HELENAE, OPHTHALMOLOPLIUS. 992, p. 355. PL. 79. Heliastes hinutculatus, 753, p. 280. filgripinnis, 753, p. 280 operculari.s, 758, p. 282. reticulatus. 753. p. 280. xanlhostima, 753, p. 280. MELlCOLENUS. pp. 368. 369. HELJCOLENUS MACULATUS, 1034. p. 369. PL. 83. HELSOINGENIL CALLELEOTRIS 943, p. 340. PL. 73. HE.MIBALISTES, pp. 407, 409. HEMIBALJSTF.S bursa. 1163. p. 409, PL. 90. CHRYSOPTERA. 1164. p. 409. PL. 90. HEMlGYMNUS. pp. 285. 288. HEMIGY.MNUS, ARGYROPELECUS, 160. p. 107*. HEMIGY.MNUS FASCIATUS. 787. p. 288. PL. 61 . MF.LAPTERUS. 788, p. 289“. hemimelus, Ahudejduf , 769, p. 284. .. Glyphidodon. 769. p. 284. HEMIPTERONOTUS. pp. 285. 293. Hemipteronotus macrolepidotus. 813, p. 293. HEMIPTERONOTUS PENTADACTYLUS, 812, p. 293. PL. 60. Hemipteronotus punctulata. 812, p. 293. HEMIRHAMPHIDAE. pp. 124. 126. HEMIRHAMPHUS. pp. 126. 128. Hemirhumphus halinensis, 221, p. 128. commersoni. 222, p. 128. delagfHie. 220. p. 128. .. dussumieri. 219. p. 127. HEMIRHAMPHUS FAR. 222. p. 128*. PL. 7. Hemirhamphus fasciatus, 222, p. 128. improvisu.s, 217. p. 127. .. knysnaensis. 218. p. 127. HEMIRHAMPHUS MARGINATUS. 223, p. 128. Hemiscylitum colax. 33. p. 52. griseum. 32. p. 51. indkum. 33. p. 52. .. plagiosum. 31, p. 51. HEMISTICTUS. CEPHALOPHOLLS. 424, p. 192. hemistictus. Epinephelus, 424. p. 192. Serranu^. 424, p. 192. HENIOCHUS, p. 236. HENIOCHUS ACUMINATUS. 590. p. 236. PL. 29. Heniochus macrolepidotus, 590, p. 236. Hepatus annularis, 611, p. 240. .. argenieus. 613. p. 240. atramentatus, 609. p. 240. ., australis, 608. p. 240. buriene, 613. p. 240. 526 COMPOSITE INDEX liepaiua hipuiu talus, 611, p. 240. 613. p. 240. fasriaius, 608. p. 240. fulii’inosus, 611. p. 240. 612, p. 240. hiruih, 608, p. 240. .. Hneatus. 610. p. 240. lineoialus. 609, p. 240. .. ifunoiJes. 611. p. 240. mchmurus. 611. p. 240. .. mummif'cr, 61.3, p. 240. ni\'rk'ims. 612, p. 240. pentuzoim. 608, p. 240. sivuh'ichensi.s\ 608. p. 240. slrUifus. 610, p. 240. triostCi'us\ 608. p. 240. rrou.vhtoni. 608. p. 240. vUuiius, 610, p. 240. xanthopterus. 611. p. 240. HEPSHTIA. pp. 324. 325. MEPSE-TL4 PINGUIS. 894. p. 325. PI.. 68. Heptatretus hexatrema, p. 25*. HEPTRANCHIAS, p. 38. MEPTRANCMIAS CEPEDIANUS. 2, p. 38*. PECTOROSUS. 3. p. 39. Heplramhicis platycephalus. 2, p. 38. HEPTRANCHIDAE. p. 38. HERSCHELI, MAKAIRA, 875. p, 315. PI. 67. HETERELEOTRIS, p. 337. HETERELEOTRIS OIADEMATUS. 935, p. 338. PL. 73. EUGENIUS. 935a. p. 507. PL. lOI. hcferoclon. Clinu.w 1001, p. 357. HETERODON. PAVOCLINUS. 1001, p. 357. PL. 80. HETERODONTIDAE, p. 39. HETERODONTUS. p. 39. Heterodontus bomie-spei. 4. p. 39. HETERODONTUS JAPONICUS. 4. p. 39*. Heierodoiuus phillipi. 4. p. 39. HETERODONTUS species, 4a. p. 503. PL. 97. helerolepis, Platycephaius, 1068. p. 379. HETEROMl. pp. 109. 1 10. HETEROMUGIL. pp. 317, 320. HETEROMUGIL TRICUSPIDENS. 882. p. 320.* HETEROMYCTERIS, pp. 160. 161. HETEROMYCTERIS CAPENSIS. 321. p. 161*. PL. 10. HETERONARCE. p. 74. HETERONARCE GARMAM. 90, p. 74*. Heieronarce refjariL 90. p. 74. HETEROSCYMNOIDES. pp. 55, 56. HETEROSCYMNOIDES MARLEYl. 45. p. 56*. HETEROSOMATA. p. 154, heuitii, Cypselurus. 214. p. 126. HEWITTI. CYPSILURUS. 214. p. 126. hewitii, Prionolepis, 615. p. 241. hexagonatus. Epinephelus. 439, p. 196. Serranus. 439, p. 196. HEXANCHUS. p. 38. HEXANCHUS GRISEUS. 1. p. 38*. HEXATAENIA. PSEUDOCHEILINLS. 819. p. 294. PL. 61. hexarrema. Heptatretus, p. 25*. HEXOPHTHALMA. PARAPERCIS. 380, p. 177. PL. 13. HIANS. ABLENNES. 226. p. 130. PL. 7. hums, Myciophum. 196. p. 120. Hilsa blochii, 109, p. 90. durhtmensis, 109. p. 90. HI.MANTOLOPHIDAE. pP- 425. 429. HlMANTOl.OPHUS. p. 429. HIMANTOLOPHUS GROENLANDICUS. 1230. p. 429*. Himaniolophus reinhardlii, 1230. p. 429. Himaniura toshi, 79, p. 70. HIPPOCAMPUS, p. 167. HIPPOCAMPUS CAMELOPARDALIS. 348. p. 167. PL. 12. „ CAPENSIS. 345, p. 167. PL. 12. HlPPOCAMl’US inSTRIX, 344. p. 167. K.UDA, 347, p. 167*. liippocanipiis natuU’/isis, 347. p. 167. HIPPOCAMPUS NOVAEHOLLANDAE, 346. p. 167. Hippocampus polyiaenia, 347. p. 167. .. suhcoron. 348, p. 167. hippos, Caranx, 511, p. 216. HIPPOS. CARANX, 524. p. 218*. HIPPURUS. COR’t'PHAENA. 872, p. 314. PL. 63. HIRSUTUS. LEPIDAPLOIS, 773. p. 286. I’l . 5:. hirudo, fh’paUis, 608 p. 240. .. I'emhis, 608, p. 240. HIRUNDO. TRICil.A. 1081. p. 383. HISPIDUS, ANTl'NNARIUS. 1234. p. 4.30. PI. 98. AROIHRON 1207, p. 420. PL. 9,1. hispidus, Tetrodon, 1207. p. 420. HISTIOBRANCHUS. pp. 385, 386. HISTIOBRANC'HUS BATHYHIUS. 1090. p. 386*. Histiophorus ghtdiu^, 874. p. 315. ,, orienitili.s. 874. p. 315, HISTIOPTERIDAE, p. 242. HISTIOPTERUS. p. 242. mSTIOPTERUS SPINIEER, 620. p. 242. PI . 35. HISTRIO. pp. 4.M1, 431. HISTRIO HISTRIO, 1243, p. 431. PI, 98. hisrrio. Pterophry/u-, 1243, p. 431. hot’vc/ni. Pellona, 116, p. 93. HOI. ACANTHUS, pp. 234. 2.35. liokicauthus aconthops. 588. p, 235. .. alrenum\. 584. p. 235. bispinosus, 587. p. 235. HOLACANTHUS. DIODON, 1183. p. 415. Hohicunthus fisheri, 588. p. 235. .. fhixicauda, 588, p. 235. .. geometricu'^. 585, p. 235. imperator. 585. p. 235. ,, lepidoh’pi'.. 584, p. 235. niultispini\. 587. p. 235. fticobariensis. 585, p. 235, rhomboidcs, 583. p. 235. se/nicirculafus. 584. p. 235. sontervUli, 587, p. 235. Mriafus. 583. p. 235- HOl AC ANTHUS T RIM ACUl ATL S. 586. p. 235. PL. .30. HOLANTHIAS. p. 200. Holauihias furcatus. 456. p. 260. HOLANTHIAS N^TAI.ENSIS. 456. p. 2W. IM., 20. holcorhynchus. Rhinohulus, 64. p. 64. holoc:entridae. pp. us. 153. HOLOCENTRUS. p. 153. Holocentrus argeniew^. 297. p. 153. HOLOCENTRUS DIADEMA. 2^6. p. 153. PI 9. Holocentrus gracili'. 274. Sftrgu.s, 710. p. 268. Spurns, 729, p. 274. IIONCKI NII. AMBI 'i KlIVNCIIOri .S, 1198, 418. in.. 93. honckcnii, i'eirodon, 1198, p. 418. Hoplfgnalhns alg(u’nsi\. 4()l. p. 201. conw'uyi, 461. p. 201. rohinsoiii. 462, p. 202. HOin K M I IIYIDAI-. pp. 366, 377. HOPl K MT11>'S. |>. 377. liOIM ICin m s ACAN I HOP! 1 UKUS. 1061, 3 377. PI . 84. HOPLOBKOrUl.A. pp. 360. .362. HOPl OBROIUl.A CINAI HOPUS, 1017. p. 362 in . 87. HOPl OSl 1 1 HUS. p. 151. HOl'iOSlI IllUS AIIANIICUS. 290. p. 152. (HI ( llRISn, 289. p. 151*. Ml Dl n RRANl US. 288. 3 151*. PI , 8. hortulaiius, Jidis. 793. p. 290. Philvafossin, 7‘>3. p. 290. hotlcnioiiis, Sargus, 714, 269. HO\M I 1 A, pp. 210. :i 1. HOWIllA SHI RHORNI, 498. p. 212*. HUC HIH, ANIIHAS. 457. p, 200. HUMBOIDH. MVCIOPHUM. 195. p, 120*. humcrosus. I'cntri.scops, 367, p. 172. huntcri, i'lmiglossus, 339. p. 166, hultoni. Pliitx slrtfius, 3'48. p, 182. H val perpstosis. p. 50Cv in PORHAMPMUS. pp 126, 127. in PORMAMinU S HAl ISt NSIS. 221. p. 128. I>l I A(K)\I 2:«), p, 123 PI 7. DUSSL MH Kl, 219. p. 12’^ IMPROVISUS. 217, p. 12’ PI . 7. KNYSNM NS1S.2I8.P. i:7* PI . 7. in POSIOMIDI S. p. 173 in r»Sl I 0(j| MON. AMBI > RHVS( non s. 1 199 p, 418. PI . 93. hvosehtgeiiiioi. lelrojim. 1199 p. 418, hypseltuiinui. {'hinnenirus, 103. p. 87. insiRlX. DIODON. 1182. p 415* IHPIHX AMPUS. 344. p. 167. I lchth>»*loy> m S»>uth Alnca. p 26. Iihthyorhamphus pappri, 461. p 201. Identify a lish. Mow ti), p. 34. IDl AC AM IHDAE, p. 101. IDIACAM HUS. p. 101. IDIACANTHI S ATIANTK'US. 144. p. 102, EASC lOl A. 143. p. 102. /diacanihus ferox. 143 p. 102. IDIA( ANTHUS NUHR, 142. p. 102*. KiNOBlIIS. CARANX, 520, p. 217*. IJIMAIA, pp. 1 16. 117, UEMAIA I OPPEI. 188j. p. 1 17. COMPOSITE INDEX 527 ’ llh/ia /iataf€'fish, 116, p. 93. lllustriilions. Note on. p. 2. ILYOPMIt^AK, pp. 3S5, 3S6. ILVOPHIS. p. 3H6. ILYOPHIS HRUNNHUS, 1092. p. 387*. <'AF*I-;NSIS, 1091. p. 3K6. inirtiaci/Znut, Lo/npris, 262. p. 141. IMMACUPATUS. AROrUKON, 1203, p. 420. PP. 93. 3 imniacu/ciiu^, irivtuloih 1203. p. 420 mperator, f /olucanthus, 5H5, p. 235. I IMPERATOR, POMAC ANl HUS. 585, p. 2.'>5. PI.. 30. 'f'eiri)clIC'PV1. cm I.OSCYl l.FUM, 33, p. 52*. V inJu unt, f v/iiurn, 33, p. 52. inJicuw ■icunthfu/ifiu'-. 4(W. p. IK6, IVtilC'US, ACANFHOFO I SIOI'S. 409. p. 186*. A1 1 ( r IS. 528. p. 219. FM . 24. meZ/tus. (. irrhitc\, 393, p. 181. ., C'rrnidenw, 732. p. 275. .. ( M/j/rc/n, 852, P- 306. 1 18, p. 94 l.»,f>hius 1224, p. 426 lNt>K'US, MAl.ACOS i I US. 137. p 100*. miicu\. S F I S. 890. p. 327. iniJituK, 890. p. 327. INDIf'US, PSINIS, 852. p. 306*. ■ .. I’St LiDUlM SF US. 567. p 230 IM 27 mduus. St iri\. 528. p 219. Sttrlrph>>rn\, IK8, p 94. Nmc US, SYNODUS, 172. p. 112 IM . 6 INtRMFS. < HI II lO, 770. r 285, IM 62 C Oi l UN( L ! OIDI S. 1058, p 376*. I ACi()( I PHAl I S. 1192. p 417*. inrrrms. Sir‘>phiuru hlh\ 1172, p. 411. f ^Irtnitin. 1192, p. 417. INI A NS, AVOCM I 1 ISA. 1 108. p. 39|. ISHAt'A, CiOHlUS. 923a, p. 507. F*1 lOi INI IS Til 'S, pp, 285. 293 INIISTIUS PASO. 811. p. 293. FM . 60 lnii\riu\ irfrazunn. 811. p. 29,3. INIOMI. r Ml INORNXTA. Biinuthu\. 625. p. 243. INSIOI \ TOR. I OPHIOOI S 12:3. p 426 Plotw rph-iluy. 1063. p, 378 INSir^lA TOR. SK L IOR, 625. p 243 P1 35. ^n.Mjuifnx, I fti'vtutlhu''. 62^. p. 243. ., l.u>\inoihu'-. 625. p. 243, infrrrurJuj. .SrrN»/4j 536. p 221. ifttrrmrJiu'^, 4tnphiprii>n. 74’. p. 2'’o Intert>pcrcle, p 8 3. mt^rruplii. l^umnuihu''. 624, p 243. Lioiinuthus, 624, p. 243. INTERRUPTA, SI ETHOJUl.lS. 803, p. 291. PL. 57. interruptu/fi, i'yhium, 841, p. 301. INTF.RRllPTUM, MYCTOPHUM. 194, p. 120. interrupturtK Scomheromorus, 841. p. 301. Intertidal zone, p, II. INTROISICjCR. DICROLINL. !(H5. p. 362V IPNOPIDAE. pp. 111. IP. IPNOPS, p. 117. IPNOI'S MURRAY!, 189. p. 117* IRIS, TKACHIPTFiRUS, 264, p. |4I*. 504*. irvini, Centrolophodes, 850, p. 305. ISO, p. 324. ISO NATALLNSIS, 891, p. 324* ISOSFONDYI I. p. 85. Istlimus, pp. 81*, 83. Isdhlennius oryx, 972, p. 349. ,, rivuiaius, 972, p. 349. ISTIOPHORIOAF-:, pp. 297, 314. ISTIOPHORUS, p. 315. ISTIOPHORUS GLADIUS. 874. p. 315. Pi.. ISURinAl-:, pp. 39. 49. /suropsis fiUiucus, 28, p. 50. mako. 28, p. 50. ISURUS, p. 49. hurus huleni, 28, p. 50. ISURUS GLAUCUS, 28, p. 50. PL. L Zs/riv mako, 28, p. 50. ITOSIFil, GLRMO, 834, p. 299. PL. 65, itosihi, Neoihunnus, 834. p. 299. J HHk\oiien\is. Euumeus. 106. p. 88. iacksoni, CyiroU/es, 268, p. 144. JACKSCJNI. TAhNIOIDES, 903, p. 330. PL- fcinihhu/preru'-, i.pinepht'lu-^, 421, p. 191. Serrunu\, 421, p. 191. JAN'I MINUROPTLRUS. LUTIANUS. 668. P- 256. IM.. 37. japonic A, (lYMNURA. 85. p. 71. iop'inUu, I‘IertipliUeu, 85, p, 71. Saiirida. 174, p. 112. JAPONICA. SPHYRALNA. 896. p. 326*. JAI'ONICUM, ACROI’OMA, 4y<), p. 212. I'l.. Kipiiriiii>al:, pp. 297. 312. I L PIDOPUS. p. 312. LEPinOPUS CAUDATUS. 867, p. 312*. l.epidosarda rctigramnia, 862. p. 310. LI PIDOI RlGLA. p, 382. I LPIDOLRIGLA l AUKI I. 1077, p. 382. MUI IlSIMNOSUS, 1079, p. 382*. NAIALLNSIS. 1078. p. .^82*. l.epidolrigla stigmaptcron. 1078, p. 382. U'pisaurus, l.utianus. 667. p. 255. I I'plt'chffuuy nau(rtiti‘\, 949. p. 342. leptoU'pi\, (.'vtius, 273. |V 145. IIPLOLI PIS. /I NION, 27 3, p. 145, l.vptorhynchtt's capvnds, 1106, p. 391. l.l'PLOSCARUS, pp. 295. 296. LI 1M()S( ARUS 1(>! KUl LOI»U NC LA I US. 825. p. 296. IT . 62. / cptt>si arus spinidcns. 827. p. 296. 1 MMOSC ARUS VAK.II NSIS. 826. p. 296. IT . 62. !.cpto\caru\ viridc'.ccns. 827, p. 296. I I PLUKUS. IKKTllLiRUS. 869, p. 313*. URGCGNGl R. I 115. p. .394*. U’ssonii, Diiigramma, 696. p. 263. Plfctorin/n hn\. ()96, p. 263, I I I MRINIDAI . p. 264. I 1 1 HRINUS. p 264 I cthrinus albogunalus. 702. p. 264. ILTHKINUS BOKBONTCUS. 7(K1. p. 264. I cthrinwi crniurio. 702. p. 2M. .. di‘ri\i.inu'‘. 702, p. 264. I 1 1 HRINUS (.1 NI\ n 1 A I US, 699. p. 264 H AR \K. 701, p. 264. IT . 43. l.cihrinus Kitraii. 702. p. 264. .. laiilron\. 703, p, 265. .. longirostris. 698. p. 264. IMHRINUS MINIMUS. 69K. p. 264, IT. 4L NT BUI OSUS. 702. p 2M. PI 43. I t'lhrinu\ iipcrtularis, 702, p. 264. papui-'isi\, 701. p 264. ,. ro\iraius. 698. p. 2M stopttriu'-. 702. p. 2M u'mii incius. 703. p. 265. IMHRINUS V ARM CjAIUS. 703. p. 265. Itumpfcura. (ilyphidiidun. 7W). p 282. Icmosptlu'^. Phm<>halu\, 6 3, p. (>4 I I L( <)/()N\. AHL ni 1 DUE. 759. p 282. PI 50. leuii>:i»na. (Hyphidothm. 759. p. 282. lcuiu\. Antcnnanu\. 1238. p. 431. 1 ICTIA, DAI A HAS. 46. p 56* luhta arnia. 539. p 222. luhia. f)aliilius. 46. p, 56. I.hhia ptipnci. 537. p 221. luhta. Scvmnus 46. p. 56, I IDA. C> N()<,1 OSSUS. 340. p 166, iida. Plagu'-ia 340. p. 166 Light. pri>duciion b> fishcN. p. 31, MIIML NOIOPtM.ON, 368. p. |72 I tmanda hramt. 301. p 155. 1 IMHAIA. A( \MHOC 1 POl A. 466. p. 203. Ill AMI A. 5. p. 40*. Iimhaius. ( iiri harinu'‘. 5. p, 40. Jim>>\u\. l.ltuifn-,. 941. p. 340. IIMOSUS. OPHKH ARA. 941. p. 340 IT 69. line. 1 ateral. pp. .30. 81*. 84. lineaia. Ingla. I0K.<. p. 383, linea:u\. liali\tcs. 1171. p. 410. LINEATUS. CHEIEOnM>IT RUS. 471. p. 205 PL. 22. hneutus. Diagramma. 695. p. 263. LINEATUS. CjATERIN. 69.U p. 263*. iincatu\, fiepaiu\. 610. p. 240. .. l.utianu\. 668, p. 256. Mestiprion, 668. p. 256. LINEATUS. PHTMEIRICTII HYS. 945. p. 341* Uneatu'., Plectarhvmhus. 695, p, 263. COMPOSITE INDEX 529 linea/us. p„l)nemus. S98, p. .12‘7. . Tcirocion. 1206, p. 420. 't'euthis, 610. p. 240. LINEOLaTA. ARC'llAMlA. 49mhennfHfru\, 84 1 . p. .301. .. leuthh. 609, p. 240. .. ;(ystut‘nut. 629, p. 244. LINEOIMNNIS. I.A(Ct)l I IT i I K 1 S. 944. p. ,340. PL 73. Itneopumtafus, Pcntex, 744. p, 278. lines. Co-iitJal. p. 14. LINGUA, CYNOCil OSSUS. 339. p. 166*. \ioga\ter, f { olU’uteo, 1226, p, 427. Uiijfrutthu\ fdhullo. 626, p. 24 3. .. t'lh’ntiilus, 626. p. 24 3. .. 626. p. 243. .. (‘tfuuld. 626. p. 24.3. .. in''Uiidtor. 625, p, 24 3. insuiiutrix^ 625. p. 24 3 inlfrupfu, 624, p, 243. • . 624. p. 24.3. lunturus hri*\iharholu\, 244. p. | 35. /ro/,,3. 240, p. 134. nnsutuy, 241 p. 134, nix'ftinun 24 3. p. I 35. punuliit’P''. 242. p. 135. UdpfrtiphrriK russrUii. 642. p. 248. LIPARinAI . PP 3(,6. .379 Lips. Pp. 35*. 8 3 lirus juptiftii u\, 849h. p. 304 fn*4i u/*tiu'^. 848, p. 303 frT4'i/u\\u\. 849a. p 304 Liierature list, p 492. lITHCKf N A IHUS. pp 272. 27 3 bihtti^ru4/Mu\ 726. p. 27 3 LlTMCKiN A mi S 1 IT H(K.N \ I lU S. 726. p. 27 3*. M()RM>Rl;S. 727. p 273. IM 44 Itihoiinurhus. Pavellu'^. 726. p. 27 3 LITHOPHII US. M OS( OHIMS, ^>46. r 249 I’l 34 UlKtphiiu^. S'c<"’po. f>46. p. 249 Liiioral. p. 5, littoral ^i.>nc, p. 5 LITURATL S. NASO. 617. p 241. PI 36 .mra. 228. p 1 30. LIVIDA, C'YCIOTHONI . U8. r 103 LIZA, pp 317. 321 liZA M \t ROI I PIS. 8K6. P 3::* C>l ICiOI I IMS. 88^. r 321* K A M AD A, KX7. p, 3:2- lohe. caudal. P .35* LOBOTE-S. p 188, itHi 414. p. 188 pui tftiU'. 414. p IMS LOBOTES SLRIN\MINS1S 414 p I'S* L0BOTII7.\i . p I8K inthoiu'-. < i‘ 9| 3j. p LONCiK T I>S. SI l ARtMIS. 10 36. p 3T)* \ friPi , f'flM, I>16. p 24 1 Nciseus, 616. p. 241. lon^imanus^ Cuhiceps, 857, p. .308. LONGIPINNIS. ACTINOBERVX. 287, p. 151. PI.. 8. lon^ipinriis^ fieryx. 287. p. 151. LONGIPINNIS. TARAC'TES. 860, p. 309. LONGIROSTRIS. F.U l.EPTOR M A M PH US, 216. p. 127*. FORCiPIGER, 589, p. 2,36. PI.. 31. lon^iroxtris. Genes, 629, p. 244. ,, I.ethrinus, 698, p, 264. „ Muraenu, 1117, p. 394. ,, Murae/iesox, 1117, p. .394. Xy',tuenui, 629, p. 244. J.OI*HllDAH. p. 425. LOPmODFiS. p. 425. LOPHIODE^S INSIDIATOR. 1223, p. 426. MUTII.US. 1222. p. 426. I.GPHIOMUS, pp. 425. 426. I.OPHIOMUS SFTICiE-RUS. 1224, p. 426*. [.OPHIUS, pp. 425, 426. f.ophius inciUus, 1224, p. 426. „ niutilus, 1222, p. 426. LOPHIUS PISCATORIUS, 1225. p. 426*. I.ophius quinquerqdiatus, 1222, p. 426. ,, setif'erus, 1224, p. 426. ,, upsicepha/us, 1224, p. 426. I OPMOMRANC Mil, p. 166. 1 OPHUniGDGN, pp. 414. 415. l OPHODIODON CALORI, 1IK4, p. 415. PI- 92. I.OPHOTES, p. 142. I.OPMOTF-S CF:PF DIANUS. 266, p. 142*. E ISKIl. 267, p. 143*. I.OPHGTIDAI-:, pp. 141. 142. l.ophi)t(tp\i\ fiskii, 267, p. 143. l.OPEIUS, C HRY.SOBLFPFILS. 723, p. 272. PL. 46. iuphus. Sparus, 723. p. 272. I DPIM.I, IJIMAIA. I«8a. p. 117. IDUIl, VAKIOl.A. 426, p. 192, FH.. 17. Lower lip, p. .35*. 1 UGL.TIA. VINCINCjUF.KKlA, 157, p. 106. I U( M I R. ITMOPIFRUS. 52. p. 59*. luii/er. Spina.x, 52. p, 59. I UCjUMKIS. ( MASCANOPSLTTA. 306. p. 157*. luna. l.unipri\. 262. p. 141. I UNARI . EMAl ASSOMA, 777. p. 287. I^L. 53. lunuria, f.ptnephelu^. 420, p. 191. .. Srrrunus. 420. p. 191. Iumin\. C htieftnion, 592, p. 237. ILNAKIS (jASIKOPHYSUS. 1195. p. 418. IM 93. lunctris, Sph'ierirides. 1195. p. 418. ,, letriMliin. 1195, p. 418. 1 unatc cauJdl. p. 82. iunJini. Aiule. 5!0. p. 216. uniii, 4mhi4\\i\. 636. p. 246. ,. 6.36, p. 246 1 UNUl A. ( HAETODON. 598. p. 238. PL. 31. inteu'-, Mu/lu'^. 570. p 230. I t riANIDAl . p 251. I t riANLS. pp. 251. 253. uiitwu\ ftlhttKunuiu\. 666. p. 255. iinnulari', 66.3. p. 254. ILTIANUS ARGLMIM ACT-LATtS. 6*>4. p. ;55*. PL 37. l.uii(inu\ uuranliuiu'. 669. p. 256. iiurenrn\is. 662. p. 254. ihirtak. 663. p. 254 4>>^ruir'>pum iatu'>. 666. p. 255. II EIANI S nUODI C IMt INE-ATLS. 658. p. 2.^. IM 39. / ufitinu\ ehrenhrrvti. 659. p. 254. .. enihropieru'^, 663, p. 254. rft/ii/vv. 669, p. 256. IITIVNIS ILIMELAMMA. 659. p 254. PL. .38. Lutia/ius ^iirreiti, 664, p. 255. gembra. 664. p. 255. LUTIANUS GIBBLS. 662. p. 254. PL. 37. Lulicinus ^riseoiJes. 664. p. 255. LUTLANUS JANTHINUROPTERUS. 668, p. 256*. PL. 37. JOHNI. 661. p. 254. PL. 38. KASMIRA. 657. p. 254. PL. 39. Lutidnus lepisaurus, 667, p. 255. .. lineatus, 668. p. 256. LUTIANUS LINEOLATUS, 671. p. 256, PL. 39 Lulionus marfrinaius, 669, p. 256. M niekmesiae. 659. p. 254. melanura, 662, p. 254. .. ohscurus, 664. p. 255. octokneaius, 657. p. 254. M oligoiepis, 659, p. 254. .. puvoninus, 661, p. 254. quadrivultaius, 667, p, 255. - quinqueiineqius, 657, p. 254. LUTIANUS RANGUS, 670, p. 256. PL. 38. • • RIVULATUS, 666. p, 255. PL. 38. iMllanus rosea, 662, p. 254. LUTIANUS RUSSELLII. 660. p. 254. PL. 39. [.utianu\ salmonoides, 664, p. 255. LUTIANUS SANGUINEUS. 663. p. 254. PL. 37. ■ . SF.BAE, 665, p. 255. PL. 97. Lulianus spiluru',, 657. p. 254. unimaculalm. 661, p. 254. LUTIANUS VAIGIENSIS. 669, p. 256*. PL. 38. t.uliaiius Kainiernh, 669, p. 256. .. yapilli, 661, p. 254. LYCODES, p. 365, LYCODES ERIGIUUS, 1026, p. 365*. LYCODONTIS, pp. 395, 397. LYCODONTIS FAVAGINEUS. 1127, p. 398*. ,. flavomarginatus, 1128, p. 398, PL. 100. GOLDSBOROUGHII, 1124a, p. 510. PL. 100. .. LE.MAYl. 1129a. p. 510. PL. 99. ., MELEAGRIS, 1130, p. 399. PL. 99. NUDIVOMER. 1125, p. 397*. Lycodonlis pfeifferi, 1131. p. 399. piclus, 1131. p. 399. LYCODONTIS PUNCTATUS, 1124. p. 397*. STF.LLIFERUS, 1126, p. 397. PL. 100. TESSELLATA, 1127a. p. 398*. UNDULATUS. 1129, p. 398. PL, 100. LYCODONUS. p. 365. l.YCOr)ONtS VERMIFORMIS. 1027, p. 365. LYCONODES. pp. 131. 135. LYCONODES ARGENTEUS, 246. p. 135*. LYMMA. TAENIURA. 78. p. 70. PL. 4. hmnia, Taeniura. 78. p 70. LYOPOMI. p. no. LYRA. TRIGLA. 1080. p. 383. LYSAN. CHORINEMUS. 546, p. 223. \I .MACCLELLANDL BREGMACEROS. 251, p. 137*. MACDONALDIA. p. 110. Macdonaldia afrkana. 168. p. 110. MACDONALDIA ROSTRATA. 168. p. 110*. machnota. Ehps. 100. p. 86. mackiei, Cunharinus, 10. p. 42. mat racanthus. Qerres. 628. p. 244, XyMaema. 628. p. 244. M aCROCEPH ALUS. COTTUNCU LOIDES. 1057. p. 376*. rtiacrru'^, Cytnmahora.w I 126, p. 397. ,. yiuraena. 1126. p. 397. mar^inaia, Raia. 67. p. 66. M ARGIN ATA, S^i N APTL R A. 324, p. 162*. nianiinalus. Chaelodon, 596. p. 237. Conner, nil. p. 393. M.ARCilNATUS. DASCA I I US. 753, p. 280*. marginatu'^. Dule>. 413. p. 187. M.ARCilNATUS. MEMIRH.AMPHUS. 223. p. 128. ntarginufu'-. l.ulianus. 669. p. 256. MARCilN ATI S. OPHlCmHUS. 1104. p. 390. ntarghiuiw'. Ophuhlhv^. IKM. p. 390. .. ()phiuru'>. 1104. p. 390. .. Oxy\riin)u\. 1104. p. 390. nuirina. I'ulpeiida. 2?. p. 4"'. Marine organisnis. [Rangers of. p. 25. MARI E’l Fl l A. p. 155 MARLE'i FTI A BICOLOR M A. MX), p. 155. PI 10. marieyi. Anibiyapi''ii4\. 1032. p. 368. MARLFAL ARFUSCUS. 343. p. 166. PI. It CALLIONAAIUS. 390. p. 180. PI. 14. CHAFTODON. 59]. p. 236. PL. 31 HETEROSCYMNOIDES, 45. p. 56. niar/eyi. Johnius, 550, p. 226. MARLEYl. PORODFRMA. 35. p. 53. PI. 2. marelyb Siylurrhinus. 35, p. 53. .. Setarches. 1036. p. 370. Sphaeraides. 1198. p. 418. MARLEYl. TAEMOLABRUS. 374. p. 174. PI . 13. THYRSITOIDES. 866. p. 311* nuirleyi. I'rnllii. 343. p. 166. niar/naraia, (lynininniirtinia, 1 134. p. 39‘L Piiiapliigu.sia, 335. p. 165. PIasm\ia, 335. p. 165, MAKMORAI A. TORPFIK). 91, p. 75. IM , 4. MAHMORA'rUS. AN ACANTHOliATIS, 84. p. 71. /na)/norati/\, Anfentunins. 1243. p. 431, MAHMORATUS, CAl.l lONYMUS. 389. p, |80. PL. 101. /uar/fumtiii'y. C'inhifes, 394. p. 181. C'in‘hilN.\, .194. p, 181. MARMORAlLiS. HALMAHl l-NNIUS, 973a. p. 508. PI . 75. nuinnarain.w Sarirhinus, 23, p. 47. MAXIMUS. HAIS'VDKUS, 2,L p. 47*. nu ctfvi, Ei himtrhinus. 44, p. 56. MC'CUl LOC Ml. CA TIOIDOI’S. 268. p. 144*. tnccullochi. i'yttus. 268. p. 144. Ml nn 1 RRANl US. IIOPI OSI 1 I ML S. 288, p. 151*. PL . 8. nu'dusttphagus, l.irus. 847, p. 303. .. \fupus, 847, p. 303. Ml DL SOPHAGUS. S( I H DOPH 1 1 L S. 847. p. 30.3*. Ml (iAC HIR. I PIN! Pin i US, 440, p. 196 PI . 17. Ml CiAl ASPIS, pp. :i3, 220. MKiAlASPlS (ORD^IA. 534. p. 221*. Mrgalaspi^ ratlieri, 534. p. 221. Ml CiAl OPS. pp. 85. 86 MICiAIOPS C A PHINOIDI S. 101. p. 86*. Mfgaltips filat?H"fiinsi4s. 101. p. 86. meguliips. Hvnnodux 495a, p. 210. MlCiALOPS. MILAMPHAIS. 2X2. p. 148*. inegalops. Squutus. 53. p. ^>0. Ml 1 AMPM AI S. p. 148. Ml 1 AMPMAIS MKiALOPS. 282. p. 148*. MI/.Ol I PIS. 280. p. 148*. IMCORMS. 281. p. 14K. Ml I AMPM AlDAl . p. 148 MIlAMPUS. (rASn ROC MISM A. 844. p. 302*. MII AMIACjIS. C ARANX. 513. p. 216. melancsiax. l.utianus, 659. p. 254. \1f\'*priiiit. 659, p. 254. MEl.ANOBRANC HUS. HA I HA C.ADUS. 249. p. 136. Ml I ANOC I PHAl US, CiOBIUS. 926, p. 335. meUwtm'phalus, Mo/iacanihus, 1137, p. 401. MEt ANOC I PHAI US, PFRNACiOR. 1137. p 401. PL. 88. MEI.ANOCOETIDAF. pp. 425. 429. MLLANOCOFTUS. p. 429. MILANOCOFFUS KOTUNDATUS. 1232, p. 429V COMPOSITE INDEX 531 MELANOCILOI'.A, pp. 116, 117. MELANOCILOEA VENIRAMS, 188h, p. 117. MELA NON US, pp. 1,'7, 140. MELANONUS gracilis. 261. p. 140*. MELANOPTLRA, EULAVllA. 7, p. 41*. mehmiiplera. Soleci. ,12,1. p. 162. melimoplenis. Canhurinus. 7, p. 41. melamKlipma. ISrIone. 226. p. 1,10. MELANOSTIGMA, p. 16,1. MELANOSTIGMA GLLAl INOSUM, 102,1, p. 165*. MELANOSTOMIAS. p. 98 MELANOSTOMIAS NIGER. 1,11. p. 99*. iijcliinolaeniti, Aniia, 487, p. 208, Apo^on. 487. p. 208. MEL.ANOTUS, CHAHTOnON, 596. p. 257. PL. 31. mehinoins, Siron^yluiuh 2.30. p. 1.30. MLLANOTUS. TYl.OSURUS. 2.30. p. 1.30, Dicicope, 662, p. 254. l.i/tiiinus, 662. p. 254. MELANI KA. SARDlNE.l.l a. 11.3. p. 92^. mehinurus. Ihitrachoicie.s, 1219. p. 424. MELANL’RUS. CHATRABUS. 1219, p. 424, PL. 96. niehiiurus. Hepafits, 611, p. 240. Teuihis. 611. p. 240. MELAPTERUS. LIEMIGYMNUS. 788. p. 289*. MELAS. PLESIOPS. 411. p. 187. luelastomus. i'luietoiUm, 600. p. 2.38. incleoyri.\, Kpinephelus. 451. p. 198. Gy/nnoihor(ix. 1130. p. 396. MELEAGRiS. HALM ABLE:NMUS. 974. p. 349*. 1 YCODONTIS. 1130. p. 399. PL. 99. ireleimi'i''. \furacno, 1130, p. 399. Salurias, 974. p. 349. Serranus, 451. p. 198. MELlCHTinS. pp. 407. 408. Meliihihys huniva. 1159. p. 408. MELICHTHYS RINGENS. 1159, p. 408*. VIDUA. 1158. p. 408. PL. 88, membrane. Nictitating, pp. 35*. 36. MENE. p. 242. MENE MACUL.ATA. 623, p. 242. PI.. 35. MEMDAE, p. 242. Mental barbel, p. 81*. mentalis, Clinus. 998. p. 357. MENTALIS. LABROCLINUS. 998. p. 357. PL. 81. meniiilis. Pctraiies. 998. p. 357. memo. Exocoetus. 215. p. 126. Porexococlus. 215. p. 126. MERl LCCIUS. pp. 137. 1.39. MERLUCCIUS CAPENSIS. 257, p. 139*. MERRA. EPINEPHELUS. 4.39, p. 196. PL. 18. merteusH. Chaetoclon. 603. p. 238. me'^oyo'^icr. Pcirexocoetus. 215. p. 126. niesoprion. Acanlhocepohi. 466. p. 203. Mesoprii)/! annularis. 663, p. 254. aureoYittatus. 659. p. 254. chiriak. 663. p. 254. ehrenberyii. 659. p. 254. eryihropierus. 663. p. 254. yarretli. 664. p. 255. yembra. 664. p. 255. .. '.’riseoides. 664. p. 255. linealus. 668. p. 256. inehinesiae. 659. p. 254. microchir. 652. p. 251. niuhidens. 653. p. 252. (fbscurus. 664. p. 255. oli^olepis. 659. p. 254. salmonoides. 664. p. 255. MESSIERI. CATAETYX, 1020. p. 363*. mes'^ieri. Sireniho. 1020. p. 363. MIC ROBRACHIUM, CARANX. 509. p. 216* MICROCEPHALUS. TRYPAUCHEN. 937. p. 338. PL. 69. microchir. Mesoprion. 652. p. 251. microchiru<:. Stroniateu^. 846, p. 303. MICRODON. CYCLOTHONE. 149. p. 103*. •nicrodon. F.pinephelus. 451. p. 198. MlCROnON, PRISTIS, 58, p. 6.1. luU-rodon. Seminus. 451, p. 198. I’UiroIppUlonis. Raslrel/ificr. 8,17, p. 299. •' Scomber. 837. p. 299. y\'yrichlhys. 820. p. 295. MICROLEPIS. AUSTROGLOSSUS, 126, p. 161. iitiaoh’pis. Canihanis, 719, p. 276. .. Carunthus. 719, p. 276, .\oniaiki. 820, p. 295. I'wusphi'minthids. 464, p. 202. Pri.slipomoitles. 651, p. 252. Synapturci, 126, p. 161. \llCROPHIS. pp. 167, 169. \1ICROPHIS liRACHYURUS, 158, p. 170*. I’lkiophllnilmiis. Arelisiiis. 142, p. 166. MICROPHTHALMUS, ARNOCil OSSUS IP p 1,59*. micivplilhiilmiis. Liieops. IP, p. 159. I'i'iilla. 142. p. 166. MICROPS. PLNT.ANCIIL'S. 41, p 54*. ntUrops, Scytliorhiiiini. 41. p, 54. MiCROPLIS, ETRUMEUS. 106, p. 88*. Micropus zcrhinicii.y 1051. p. 175, MICROSTOMIDAE. p. 97, Ptcropicileu. 85. p. 71. MICRURUS, PSEDNGS, 1071, p. 179. Migration ol' fishes, p. 28. miles. Dcme.s. 740, p. 277. MILES, POROGADUS, 1022, p. 164*. MILES, PTEROIS, 1047a. pp. 171, 508. Sciaena. 551. p. 226. Mil lARlS. CHAETODON. 595. p. 237*. Mineral salts, p. 7. MINIATUS CEPHALC^PHOl.lS. 423. p. 192. PI . 16. miniaius. F.pinephelus. 423, p. 192. MINIATUS, LETHRINUS. 698, p. 264. PL. 43. miniaius. Serranus. 423. p. 192. MINGUS, pp. 374. 375. Minous superciliosu.^. 1054. p. 375. MINGUS TRAC'H'i CEPHALUS. 1054. p. 375*. MINUTA. C'tAZZA, 627. p. 244. PL. 35. miris. Bali^fes. 1162. p. 408. MITRATUS. PETRGSC'IRTES. 959. p. 345. PL. 74. MIZC^LFPIS. MELAMPHAES. 280. p. 148*. mizolepis. Pledromus. 280. p. 148. moadetta. Chorinemw^. 544. p, 224. MOBULA. p. 72. MGBULA DIABGLUS. 87. p. 72*. Mi'ibula draco. 87. p. 72. .. kuhli. 87. p. 72. kuhlii. 87. p. 72. ihursioni. 87. p. 72. MOBULIDAE. pp, 62. 72. modc'.ioide'i, Caniherines. I 147. p. 404. MGDESTGIDES. TH A M N.AC'GNUS. 1 147, p. 4(U*. MGDESTUS, EPINEPHE.LUS. 441, p. 196. modesius. Monacanthus. 1149. p. 405. MODESTL^S. NAVGn(3N. 1149. p. 405*. modesius. Pseudomonacanthus. 1 149. p. 405. MGLA. pp. 421. 422. Mola alexandrini. 1213. p. 422. MGLA MGLA. 1213. p. 422. PL. 95. LANGEC'JLATA, 1214. p. 422*, Molars, p. 83. MGLIDAE. pp. 414. 421. molleri. .Acanihidium. 52. p. 59. Mollusca. p. 20. Molteno, C. J.. p. 297. MGIUCA. PEMPHI.RIS. 643, p. 248. miduccensis-. Haren^uia. Ill, p. 91. MGNACANTHIDAE. pp. 400. 401. Monacanthids. Trigger mechanism in. p. 401*. MONACANTMUS. CGCGTRGPUS, 1029, p. 367*. Monacanlhu-i fronlicinctus. 1145, p. 404. melanocephalu‘;. 1137. p. 401. modesius. 1149, p. 405. nalalensis. 1144. p. 403. Monacanihus obloniius, 1139. p. 402. „ pardalis. 1144, p. 403. porcellu.s. 1140, p. 402. ,, .sandwichiensi.Sy 1144. p. 403. .. .scripius. 1153, p. 406. seiifer, 1140, p. 402. MGNACANTHUS, SYNCHIRGPUS, 388, p. 180. PL. 14. monacanihus. Peiraro^e, 1029, p. 367. Monacanthus 1153, p. 406. MGNGC'ENI RIDAE, pp. 148, 149. MGNGCT'N I RIS, p. 149. MGNGC'EN'I RIS JAPONICLIS, 284. p. 149*. PI . 8. nunioceros. Alutarius, 1152, p. 405. MGNGC'ERGS. AI.UTERA. 1 152, p. 405. PI . 89. monoceros. .Aluiercs. 1152, p. 405. Monoceros amboiensis, 616, p. 241. ,, anyinosus. 616. p. 241, ,, ecornis. 617. p. 241. ,, ./ronlicornis. 616, p. 241. .. yarretii. 617, ji. 2^1. lonyicornis. 616, p. 241. ., olivaceus. 616, p. 241. ,, unic<>rnis, 616, ji. 241. MGNGC'HIRUS, pp. 161, 163. MGNGC'IIIRUS QUADRIOCELI ATUS. 330, p. 163. PL. I I. monochroa. Amia. 480. r>. 207. MGNGC'HRGUS, A[‘GCiGN, 480, p. 207. MCJNGDACTYLIDAE.. p. 233. MGNGDACTYLUS. p. 233. MONGDAGTYLUS ARCiEiNLI US. 581. p. 234*. EALC IEORMIS. 580. p. 233. PL. 29. MGNGTAXIS. pp. 249, 2.M). MONGTAXIS GRANDGGULIS. 650. p. 250. PL. 36. MGNS1ROSA. C IIIMAERA, 93, p. 76. mnnlalbani. .Sipudus, 53. p. 60. MGRINGUA. p. 508. Minint^ua haniiiicnsis. 1094a, p. 508. MGRINGUA I.AV.ANK'A. 1094a. p. 508*. PI . 100. MGRINCiUIDAE:. pp. 385. 508. MORNDRUS. 1 nilGGNAEHUS. 121. p. 273. PI . 44. mormyrus. Ptn'ellus. 727 p. 273. MORRHUA. EPINEPHELUS. 438, p. 196. PL. 18. Mortality from Gold. p. 8. MOSELEM. NGIAGANTHUS. 167. p. 110. mossamhicii. Anyuilla. 1094. p. 388. MGSSAMBIGA. MURAliNA. KW, p. 388*. SGORP.AI NA. 1037. p. 370. PL. 83. mossanihicus. (. heilinus. 815. p. 293. Synynathus. 351, p. 168. Mouth, pp. 35*. 83*. Main dentigerous bt>ncs in roof of. p. 83*. Mouth parts, pp. 35*. 36. 83*. Mo/amlnque current, n. 7. Mucus, p. 29. Mud pra\^n. p. It. MUEILIRI. MAUROl.K LS. 155. p. 105*. Mugil, p. 317. Muyil borneensis. 886. p. 322. buchanani. 888. p. 323. .. canalicu/aius. 884. p. 321. .. capita. 887. p. 322. cephaloius. 877, p. 317. MUCill. GIPMALGS. 877, p. 317*. .. .. scale, p. 501*. Muyil cevlonensis. 888. p, 323. ,, consianiiae. 877. p. 317. .. creniiabis. 880. p. 319, ., diadema. 881. p. 319. eurnnoius. 890. p. 323. „ oeur. 877. p. 317. oliynlepis. 885. p. 321. ramada. 887. p. 322. MUCilL RGBUSTL S, 878, p. 318*. Muyil saliens, 882, p. 320. 532 COMPOSITE INDEX saliens, 890, p. 323. ,, seheii. 889, p. 323. smilhii. 886. p. 322. MUGIL STRONGYLOCEPHAI.L'S. 879, p. 318*. MugH tricuspidcn.s, 882. p. 320. iroscheii, 886. p. 322. vaigiensi.s, 883, p. 320. .. wuigienxis, 883, p. 320. MUGILIDAE, p. 316. Mugilogohius durhiinensis, 915, p. 333. MUGILOIDEA, p. 316, MULLIDAE. p. 228. MuUoUies aurifhunma, 572, p. 231. .. fiavolineaius, 572. p. 231. MULLOiniCHTHYS. pp. 228, 230. Mulloidichthys armatu.s. 573, p. 231. MULI.OIOICHTHYS AURU LAMMA. 572. p. 231. PL. 28. SAMOENSIS. 573, p. 231. PL. 28, Mullus luteus, 570, p. 230. .. oxycephalus, 570, p. 230. MULTIBARBATA, BROTULA. 1014. p. 361*. MULTICOLOR, CORIS, 808, p. 292. rnultiiiens. Anihias, 653, p. 252. „ Mesoprit)/!, 653, p. 252. multidentatuSs Agiiopux, 1060, p. 377. MULTIFASCIATUS, CORACINUS, 645. p. 249. PL. 34. multifasciaiux. Duhisnux, 645. p. 249. MULTIMACULATUM, POMAOASVS. 678, p. 258. PL. 40. ruultinuiculotunj, Prislipoma, 678, p. 258. multiuotiHus. Epinepheluw 447. p. 197. ., Scrranu.w 447. p. 197. MULTIPUNCTATUS. SCOPELOPSIS. 191, p. 118*. multiraJicitus, ChUodactylus, 397, p. 182. multispinis, floiacamhuw 587, p. 235. MULTISPINOSUS. LEPl DOTRIGL A, 1079, p. 382*. mulfitaenkita, Amia, 488, p. 208. .. Lepiiiamia, 488. p. 208. .MULTITAENIATUS. APOGON, 488. p. 208, PL. 22. muntnuler, Hepaius. 613, p. 240, .. Teulhi.s, 613, p. 240. MUPUS, pp. 302. 303. MUPUS MACULATUS. 848. p. .303*. Mupus medusopfhigus. 847, p. 303. MUPUS 0\ ALIS, 848a. p. 303. MURAENA, p. 387. Muraena arahicd. 1117, p. 394. ., batuensix, 1128. p. 398. .. chlorostigma. 1130, p. 399. .. tavagineus, 1127. p. 398. , fiinimarginatii, 1128. p. 398. .. jiavomarginatus, 1128. p. 398. .. J'ormoxus. 1128. p. 398. Javanica. 1128. p. 398. .. longirosiriy 1117, p. 394. .. margariiophorus. 1126, p. ,397. meieagris, 1130. p. 399. MURAENA .MOSSAMBICA. 1094, p. 388*. muraena nudivomer. 1125. p. 397. pteiiferi, 1131, p. 399. pu'lus, 1131. p. 399. richardsoni. 1129. p. 398. .. stellifera. 1126, p. 397. lesscUata, 1127a, p. .398. tricuspidaiu, 1117. p. 394. .. undu/aius, I 129, p. 398, MURAENESOCIDAE. pp. 385. 394. MURAENESOX. p. 394. Muraene.so.x arahica. 1117, p. 394. MURAENESOX CINEREUS. 1117. p. 394*. Muraenesox longirosrri\, 1I|7. p. 394. .. iricuspidaia, 1117, p. 394. MURAENICHTHYIDAE. pp. 385. 399. MURAENICHTHYS. p. 399. MURAENICHTHYS GY.MNOTUS. 1135. p. 400*. MURAENIDAE, pp. .385. 387. MURAENOCLINUS. pp. 350. 352. MURAENOCI INUS DORSAl.lS. 979, p. 352. PL. 78. MUROJAN. MYRIPRISTIS. 298, p. 154. PL. 9. MUROADSL DECAPTERUS. 53.3. p. 220. MURRAY!, IPNOPS, 189. p. 117*. "ii/.v, Clinus. 997. p. 356. MUS. EUCOMIMUS. 997. p. 356*. PL. 79. MUSCATENSIS. OPISTHOCiNATlIUS. 385. p. 179. PI.. 13. MUSTELUS. pp. 40, -IS. MUSTELUS CANIS, 19. p. 46*. Musteltis laevis, 18. p. 45. MUSTELUS MANA70, 17. p. 45* MUSTELUS. 20, p. 46. PUNCTULATUS, 18. p. 45*. fnutilus. Chirolophius. 1222, p. 426. MUTIl.US. LOPHIODES, 1222. p. 426. mutilux, Lophitix, 1222, p. 426. MYCTOPHIDAE. pp. HI. 118. MYCTOPHUM, p. I 19, Myclophum ahitux, 204, p. 123. MYCTOPHUM ANTARCTICUM, 19.3. p. 120. Myclophum urgeiueus, 208. p. I2L benoiii, 199, p, 121. MYCTOPHUM COCCO, 196. p. 120*. Myclophum florentiae. 202, p. 122. ,, hitinx, 196, p. 120. MYCTOPHUM HUMBOLOTl, 195. p. 120*. INTERRUPTUM. 194. p. 120. „ PARALLELUM. 192. p. 119. PHENC}01’)ES. 198. p. 121*. Myclophum pscudoalulus, 204, p. 123. MYCTOPHUM PTEROTUM. 197. p. !2l. Myclophum rorum, 194. p. 120. MYCTOPHUM REINHARPTL 199, p. 121. MYLiOBATlS. p. 68. MYLIOBATIS AQUILA. 76. p. 69. Myiiohoiis bovim/s. 77, p. 69, MYLIOBATIS CERVUS, 75. p. 68*. PL. 3. Myliohcitis puncluius. 74. p. 68. ntyops, SiiuruM, 178, p. 113. MYOPS. TRAC'HINOCEPHA! US, 178. p, 113. PI. 6. MYRIASTER. BOTHUS. 316, p. 160*. myrio'iier. Fpiuephelus, 425. p. 192. Serruuus, 425, p. 192. MYRICHTHYS, p. 509. M't RICHTHYS COLUBRINUS, I099h. p. 509*. MYRIPRISTIS, p. 153. MYRIPRISTIS, AOUSTUS. 298a. pp, 153, 504. PL. 35 MURDJAN. 298, p. 154. PL. 9. MYSTRIOPHIS. pp. .388. 390. MYSTRIOPHIS ROSTELLATUS, 1105. p. .390. M'LXODES. pp. 350. 356. MYXODES FUCORUM. 996. p. 356. PI . 81. MVXODINAE. n. 350. Mvxus barnardi. 877. p. 317. \ Nape. p. 81 *, Surciue capensis. 89. 9. 74. .. nala/ensis. 90. p. 74. Surcobulus nuirmoraius, 91, p. 75. ,. fiobdianus^ 92, p. 75. ., \nuihii. 91. p, 75. narinari, Aeiohatis. 74. p. 68. NARINARI, STOASOnON. 74. p. 68*. NARKF. p. 74. NARKE CAPENSIS. 89. p. 74. PI . 4. Nasal cirrus, p. .35*. flap, p. 35*. tentacle, p. 81*. .\aseu\' amhoiensis. 616, p. 241. umiinosu.s, bl6. p. 241. „ fronlicornis, 616. p. 241. longicornis, 616, p. 241. olhaceus. 616. p. 241. .. unicornis. 616, p. 241. NASICORNIS. PSEUDAl UTERIUS. 1154, p, 406*. NASO, pp. 239, 241. NASO BRHVIROSTRIS. 615. p. 241. PI.. 34. LITURATUS. 617, p. 241. PI. 36. UNICORNIS. 616, p. 241. PI. .34. NASOLYCHNUS. pp. 119. 122. NASOl.YC'HNUS I LORFNTIAE. 202, p. 122*. nasus, Dorosoma, 117, p. 93. NASUS, l.AMNA. 27. p. 49. IM.. I. NEMATALOSA, 117, p. 93. IM . 5. nusulus, Chrys()phry\. 719, p. 271, NASUTUS, CYMATOCEPS, 719. p. 271*. PI- 45, ,. ,, Dcntitidn, p. 502*. nusuius, l.ionurus. 241, p. 134. NASUTUS. MACRUROPl.US, 241, p. 134*. misutus. Pagru\. 719. p. 271. ,, Spurns. 719. p. 271. milulcns'c, Acunlhidium. 49, p. 58. .. Dcuniu. 49. p, 58. mUdlcnsis. Amhussis. 634. p. 245. Amici. 488. p, 208. NA t ALENSIS, ANCHIClIOIiROPS. 771, pp. 284*. 286*. PI. 101. luiia/cnsis. Anlhius. 456, p. 2()(). ,, Apogon. 488, p. 208. Areliscu\, 336, p, 165. NATALENSIS. ATI-LEOPUS, 188. p, 116*. nuiaiewiis, fU'ionc, 228, p. 130. NATAL.ENSIS. CAIX'UI A. 1096, p. 389*. nutulends, Canihtirus. 7.37, p. 276. ,. Canifwrincs, 1144, p, 403. ,. Caranx. 507, p. 215. .. C'hocrops. 111. p. 286. NATAl ENSIS. CHOR I I9ACTY 1 OOES, 1055, p. 375. PI.. S3. r(itaiensi\. Choridactylus, 1055. p. 375. Chrvwphry\, 710, p, 268. ,, Coelorhvnchus. 234, p. 132. NATALENSIS, ('UBK'EPS, 858. p. 308*. nuiaiensis, Cvnoglo.wus. 336, p. 165. NATAl. KNSiS, ENG YPROSOPON. 315, p. 160. tuiicdcnsis, (iobius. 927. p. 336. NATALENSIS. (O MNURA. 86, p. 71*. HAI.AELURUS, 40. p. 54. PI . 2. HAI OPORPHYRUS, 256, p. L39*. nauilen',i\. Hippocampu\, 347. p. 167. NATAl ENSIS HOLANI HlAS. 456. p. 2(M> PL. 20. nutalensis. Hvutorhvnchus. 128, p. 97. ,, fiishii. 116. p, 93- NATALFNSIS, ISO. 891. p, 324*. nuhdensis. I.ueop\. 308. p. 158, l.epidion, 256. p. 139. NATAl ENSIS. Ll'PIOOTRIGl A. 1078, p. 382*. nalaien\i\. Moiuicu/ithu-^. 1 144. p. 403. .. Surcinc. 9(L p. 74. ,. \oiopovon. .367. p, 172. NATAl. l-NSIS, PAGELI.US. 728, p. 273. PL, 46. nut(den\i\. Peiiona. 116, p. 93. NATAl ENSIS. PHYSICULUS, 259, p. 140. .. POECII.OPSi rrA. 30l. p. I55*. PSEUDOC HROMIS, 408. p. 185. PI . 15. nuudei!\i\. P\eudorhtimhu\y 304. p. 156. ,. P\ilonc>tu'.. 1211, p. 421. .. Picrois, 1046, p. 373. Pteropluieu, 86. p. 71. Rhin<)h:uu\. 64. p. 64. NATAl ENSIS. R M YNCHOH Y A LUS. 128. p, 97. nuuilcnsis. Sacuru. 456. p. 2(X). .. Sur\iu\. 708. p. 267. ,, Scurus. 824, p. 296. NATALENSIS, SC0RPAE:NA. 1040, p..37l. PI ,83. natulensis. Scylliorhinus. 40. p. 54. ,. Spuru\. 710, p. 268. ,, Sphyraena, 896. p. 326. ,. Synagrops. 473, p. 205. ,, Tetrodon. 1211, p, 421. Tright, 1082, p. 383. Tropidichihys, 1211. p. 421. Vpeneus. 564. p. 229. COMPOSITE INDEX 533 NATANS. PF.C'.ASUS, 372. p. 173*. Nature. Balance of, p. \5. NAUC'RATHS. pp. 213. 221. NAL’CRATi;S. I7UC'TOR. 535. p. 221. FL. 24. FCHENFIS. 949. p. 342.*. Sdutrafcs funfarus. 535, p. 221. .. indicus. 535. p. 221. miiuraies. I.eptechcneis, 949, p. 342. NAVALIS. CLIMACOFORUS, 978, p. 352. PL.. 78. NAV0I70N. pp. 401. 405. NAVODON MODESTUS. 1149. p. 405*. Neap tides, p. 13. NEBULOSA. echidna. 1122. p. 396. PL. 99. NEBULOSA. PARAPERC'IS. 381, p. 177. PL. 13. nebulosct. Siiurhia. 175. p. 113. NEBULOSUS. CIOBIUS, 917, p- 334. PL. 71. l.ETHRINUS. 702. p. 264. PI.. 43. nehulosus. Sif'anus. 902. p. 328. NLOLECTUS, CARAPUS. 1009. p. 360. nciilectus, f'ierasfcr. 1009. p. 360. NLMATALOSA. p. 93. NLMATALOSA NASl'S, 117. p. 93. PI.. 5. NEMATOGNATHl. p. 107. iiennitopicra. Duvniaeria, 796, p. 290. nemaiopterus. Betnbrops. 383a. p. 178. NLMK'HTHY119AE. pp. 385, 391. NLMICHTHYS, p. 391. NEMICHTHYS SCOLOPACEA. 1107. p. 391*. NEMiPTERIDAE. p. 257. NEMIPTERUS. p. 257. NEMIPTERUS DEl.AGOAE, 672. p. 257. PI.. 21. SMITHU. 673, p. 257. NEOBYTHITES. pp. 360, 363. \eobyihiles arutli.s, 1019. p. 363. NEOBYTHITES .MACROPS, 1019. p. 363*. NEOCYTTUS. pp. 143, 146. ’ NEOCYTTUS RHOMBOIDALIS. 278. p. 147*. NEOPTERYGII. pp. 21. 79, 81. NEOSCOMBROPS. pp. 210, 211. NEOSCOMBROPS ANNECTENS, 497. p. 211*. NEOSCOPEEIDAE, pp. 111. 117. NEOSCOPELUS. p. 117. NEOSCOPEEUS M ACROEEPIDOTUS. 191, p. 118*. NEOSCORPIS. p. 249. NFOSCORPIS LITHOPHILUS. 646, p. 249. PL. 34. SeoMomia.s filiferunu 134. p. 99. \eoihunnu\ albacora. 835. p. 299. aUisoni. 835. p. 299. iidsibi. 834. p. 299. nuicroprerus. 835. p. 299. NETTASTOMA. p. 395. i NETTASTOMA PARVICEPS. 1119. p. 395*. I NETTASTOMIDAE. pp. 385. 395. i nk(>h(iru’n.\i\, Holacanthus. 585. p. 235. Nictitating membrane, pp. 35*. 36. I fii.jjer. Aldrovandia. 170. p. 111. NIGER. APOLECTUS. 500. p. 212. PL. 24. niyer. Balisles. 1164. p. 409. .. Balistoides. 1164. p. 409. NIGER. CENTROLOPHUS. 850. p. 305*. CHLASMODON, 377. p. 176*. /j/j'ff, Da.scyllus, 751. p. 280. , .. Elacale. 548. p. 225. I ,. Erythrodon, 1155, p. 407. Formio. 500. p. 212. NIGER. IDIACANTHUS. 142, p. 102*. LAMPANYCTUS. 203. p. 123*. mgcr Mahicosteus. 137. p. 100. NIGER. MEEANOSTOMIAS. 133. p. 99*. OI90NUS. 1155. p. 407. PL. 89. ni^er. Purostromoteus. 500. p. 212. . ., Pompilus. 850, p. 305. I .. Suffiamen. 1164, p. 409. I nifira. Pena, 850. p. 305. NIGRESCENS. HALICHOERES, 791. p. 289. PL. 55. NIGRICANS. ACANTHURUS. 612. p. 240. PL. 36. nigricans, Hepatus, 612, p. 240. NIGRICANS. PLESIOPS, 410. p. 186*. nigricans, Teuihis, 612. p. 240. NiCiRIPENNIS, CYPSIl.L'RUS, 21.E p. 126. nif-ripes. Amici. 476, p. 207. NIGRIPES, APOGON. 476, p. 207. PL. 22. riinripimiis. Chaeloclon, 605, p. 2.79. Dciscvllm. 753, p. 280. Heliaste.s, 753. p. 280. NIGRIPINNIS. DIPLACANTHOPOM A 1021 p 363*. nigripinnis, Pagrus, 719. p. 271. Pierois. 1046. p. 373. nigroja.sciaia. Scriola, 536. p. 221. NIGROEASCIATA. ZONICHTHYS. 516 p. 221. PL. 24. fiigrofasciatus, Sargus, 708, p. 267. nigromaculatus, Cossyphus. 773, p. 286. NIGROMACULATUS. LAEOPS. 309. p. 158*. nigronuiculaius, l.kmurus, 243, p. 135. NIGROMACULATUS, M.ACRUROPLUS. 243, p. 135. NIGROMARGINATUS, OPISTHOGNATHUS, 386. p. 179*. nigropinnaius, Chaetodon, 605, p. 239. NIGROPUNCTATUS. AROTHRON, 1204. p. 420. PL. 94. nigropunctatus, Teirodon, 1204, p. 420. nigrum, l.ampanyctus, 203, p. 123. nigrus, Diagramma, 690. p. 262. Plectorhynchus, 690. p. 262. .. Prisiipoma, 690. p. 262. NIGRUS. PSEUDOPRISTIPOM A. 690. p. 262*. NITIDUS. EMMELIC'HTHYS. 574. p. 231*. PL. 28. nivosus, (ilyphidon, 764. p. 283. NOBILIANA, TORPEDO. 92. p. 75*. nobilianus, .\arct>batus, 92, p. 75. nobilis, Anlhias, 459. p. 201. NOBIEIS. POEYMIXIA. 283, p. 149*. Nomenclature. Scientific, p. 16. NOMEUS. pp. 302, 307. NOMEUS Al BULA. 855. p. 307*. PL. h3. \omeus gronovii, 855. p. 307. .. maculaius, 855. p. 307. noordzieki. AniUi, 488. p. 208. Apogon, 488. p. 208. Conger, 1111. p. 393. Norman. J. R.. p. 26. Nostril, pp. 35*. 81*. NOTACANTHID.AE. p. 109. NOTACANTHUS. p. 109. NOTACANTHUS MOSELEYl. 167, p. 110. SEXSPINIS. 166. p. 109*. noiaius, Pomacentruy, 757. p. 282. Notch at caudal base. p. 35*. Notched teeth, p. 82. Sotidanus indicus, 2. p. 38. NOTOPOGON, pp. 171. 172. NOTOPOGON EERNANDEZIANUS, 367. p. 172. LILLIEI. 368. p. 172. MACROSOLEN. 366. p. 172, PL. 12. Soiopogon natalen\is. 367. p. 172. schofeli, 367. p. 172. .xenosoma, 367, p. 172. .\otorhynchus platycephalus, 2. p. 38. Sovacuta microlepis. 820. p. 295. peniadaciyla, 812. p. 293. tessellata, 812. p. 293. letraz.ona. 811. p. 293. NO\ ACULICHTHYS. pp. 285. 293. NO\ ACULIC'HTHYS M ACROEEPIDOTUS. 813. p. 293. PL. 60. TAENIOURUS. 814. p. 293. PL. 60. NOVAEHOLLANDAE. HIPPOCAMPUS. 346, p. 167. NOVEMCINCTUS. SERRANUS. 428. p. 193. novemfasciuta. Amiu. 487, p. 208. NOVEMFASCIATUS. APOCiON. 487, p. 208. PLS. 22. 102. nuchalis, Gohius. 929. p. 336. nudicep'. Amoya. 927. p. 336. NUDICEPS. GOBIUS, 927, p. 336*. PL. 71. nudivomer, Gymnothovax, 1125. p. .397. NUDIVOMER. LYCODONTIS, 1125. p. 397*. nudivon^er, Muraena, 1125. p. 397. NUDUS. CHIROC'ENTRUS. 103. p. 87. nudus, Chorisochisnius, 1086. p. 384. NUFAR. CHEIML.RIUS. 740. p. 277. PL. 49. nu/ar, De/ifex, 740. p. 277. Po/y.steganus, 740. p, 277. Number of species, pp. 9. 32. O OBLIQULIS. CENl RISC'OPS. 365, p. 172*. OBLONGUS, CARANX. 525, p. 219. Cil-RRES. 633. p. 245. obhngus. Monacanthus, 1139, p. 402. ., SpfuH’roides, 1197. p. 418. Tetrodon, 1197. p. 418. OBLONCIUS. TORQUlCiENER, 1197, p. 418. PL. 93. oblongus, Trachinotus. 540. p. 222. ,, .Vv.\r<’vrh\ciiUiris. DioJon. I 189. |t. 416. ORHICUI ARIS. (il Pin ROHE R'l X. 292, p. 152*. orhiiuUtris. PJura.w 577, p. 232. .. 314. p. 159, t>rhis, ( hdctotUpteius. 578, p. 233. ORRIS. I RlPri-RODON. 578, p. 233. I'l , 29. Order, p. 17. ORLCIOl OBinAl . pp. .39, 50. i>i>sans. E Icclric. pp, 30. 74*. ORIIMAILS. CALCUIA. UWH. p. 389. OACIA I OPIE NA. 1076, p. 381*. PI . 84. I PINNUI A. 865, p, 31 I*. ('ricntulis. Grarmuislos. 418, p. 190. ,. Hhtiophorus. 874. p. 315. .. Ophii hthvs, 1098. p. 389. ornotus. i'linu\. 986. p. 354, Siwuiri\. 303, p. 156. OR\\. Al.nCOPS. 972, p. 349, |‘i 75. iiry.v, f'^rihlt'nnius. 972. p. 349. .. Suhiriti'y. 972. p. 349. OSRICKIA. pp. 405, 406. OSHIrnd\irii. 1180. p, 413. .. fu\com(Ui4/atd. 1180. p, 413. A,’l66,nMv. 1175. p. 412. OSIRXC EON I I MKrINOSE \1. I176, p. 412. PI 92 O^friiiiitrj pt'nhUiirtlhu\. 11X0, p 413. .. pitncl(ilu\. 1176. p. 412. qutichicifrni'. 1173, p, 41 L drUi/rr, 1|74, p. 411. .. li'iriinonu'-. 1177, p, 412. .. friiorrti^. 1173. p. 411. ()SIR \( ION n HE RC LLATLS. 1177. p. 412*. PI 92 O'-lroti'in turritw^. 1175. p. 412. OST R AClOM IOAl . pp, 410, 411. OSTRAC IOM()i[>LA, p. 410. oluitensis. Pvniphcris. 642. p. 248, either senses, p. 30. OTOl ITH. p. 501*. OTOLnui-S, pp. 225. 226. OTOI ITMIS RLHI R. 553. p. 227. PI, 26. Oiolithus ruher. 553. p. 227. icrciKlip, 554, p. 227. OIOPHIDIUM. p. 364. (^tophidiuni capensis. 1023, p. 364. O'lOPMIOlUM SMirill, 1024, p. 364*. OUALE^NSIS. PFMPHI;RIS, 642, p. 248. PL. .34. ovoii'. Hothus. 316, p. 160. OVAI.IS, HARFNCiULA, Ml. p. 91. MU PUS. 84Sa. p, 303. ovdiis. PUnophrys, 316, p. 160. ovatm. I'rcuhynotus. 542. p. 223. 0VL:N1L MALOSAURUS, 169, p, MO*. OVICEULS, CAE.LYOOON, 821, p. 295. oviceps, I'scudosianis, 821, p. 295, Scants. 821. p. 295. aneni, IhiloMiuriis, 169, p. 110. Owstonia weheri, 464, p. 202. owsroNiiDAi;, p. 202. oxvcfphahis, Cirrhitkhthy.s, .393, p. 181. MuHus. 570, p. 230. (Kxysltnnus ninniinafus. 1104, p. 390. ,, serpens, 1106, p. 391. OXVURlCirniYS 1*A1*UE;NS1.S. 913a. p. 507*. OVE NA. til.RRi:s. 629. p. 244. IM , 35. oyi'iui, XyMuenta, 629, p. 244. I' l‘A( live I NI RON, ( I IMIAI OIMIOI IS. 425ii. P- ,VM. I>I . 102. PACIIYMI IOFON, pp. 274. 275. PACIIYMLIOPON AE Nl UM. 737, p. 276. 1*1., 47. HI OCHII. 736. p. 276. 1*1 . 47. Pmhvinclopini canesevns. 736, p, 276, .. yernianus. 735. p. 275. ^ihhttsus, 7 33, p. 275. .. fihntcnni, 7 38. p. 276. PAC in Ml lOPON (iKANOI . 738. p. 276. PI ,47 pini/nii'., I nhitirs. 414, p. 188, Pajse preference, p- 19. PAC.i 1 I INAI . p. 272. PAC. I I LUS. pp. 272. .273. /‘ayrlhis nfer, 718, p. 270. alfitiis, 728. p. 273. Hthoiinathus. 726, p. 273. na>rnt\rus. 111. p. 273 PAC.I I I US NAEAl 1 NSIS, 72K. p. 27.3. PL 46. Ptivnis anaUcus. 724, p. 272. ht'rda. 101. p. 267. hi/a\ci(iiii\. 706, p. 266. ,. cn(/cr. 707, p, 267. I diori'^. 715, p. 270. tri\iiicp\. 720, p. 271. .. i.'rntiiitts. 717. p, 270, fdanu'nlii\us. 716. p 270, vihhiicps. 7*5. p. 272. hidnhi. 729. p. 274 .. I(iniarii4\. 718. p. 270. .. iaiiieps, 721, P- 272, .. nasittus. 719, p. 271. .. niyripinni\, 719. p, 271. ypinifer. 715. p. 270. Paiied tins. p. 82. PAl Al OPl I C.IL pp. 21. 79. PAI ASORRAIL .SCOl lOOON. |3. p. 43-. Palatines, p. 83*. PAI IM RK lUinS, pp .302. 304, PAIIM RK MlinS POROSUS. 849j, p. 3(M. PH ISC, I I 1. 849. p. .304'. L'MHiANCrAE. 8496. p. 304*. pitlniiclrn\i\. fhuluki. 1014. p, 361 PAl.UNOLF.PIS. p. 182. PALUNOLFPIS BRACHYDACTYLUS, 398, p. 182. PL. 15. GRANDIS. 399. p. 183*. PL. 15. panihera. Torpedo. 91, p. 75. PANTHFRlNUM. POROOERMA. 36, p. 5.1*. PANTHFRINUS. BOTHUS, 317, p. 160*. paniherinus. Cirrhites, 395, p. 181. .. P/aionhrys. 317. p. 160. 4 COMPOSITE INDEX 535 panlfu’iiiws. Pseuchrhonihus. 3 1 7, p. 1 6(). RhomhoklUhthys, 317. p. 160. ScyUiorhinus, 36. p. 53. popilio, Ptf’i'dc/is, 870, p. 313. popHionaceus, Senanus, 430, p. 193. pAPILLAP()Cit)N. pp. 204, 209. PAPIl-1 APOCiON AURITUS, 491, p. 209. PL. 21 Pappc, p. 26. pappei. /chfhyorhdmphu.w 461. p. 201. l.ichid. 537, p. 221. pappUoadus. PIdfyiephdIus, 1065, p. 378. popueiisis, Amphiprion, 748. p. 280. Palistes. 1167, p, 409. .. Gohius. 913a, p. 507. .. I eihrinus, 701. p. 264. PAPUHNSIS. OXYURICHTHYS. 9|3a. p. 507*. pdpuensis. Plotosus, 163, p. 108. PAPYRICH I'HYS. pp. 302, 305. PAPYRICHFUYS PLLLUCU'JUS, 85l. p. 305*. PARABLMRRAS. p. 377. PARABLMBRAS ROBINSONl. 1062, p. 377, PL. 97. PARACALliON'iMUS. p. 180. PARAC'Al.LlON'iMUS C'OSTATUS, 392. p, 181. PL. 14. PARAC'ANTHURUS. p. 239. Purdcanlhurus Idnihduru.s, 607, p. 239. PARACANTHURUS THLUTHIS. 607. p. 239. PI.. 33. Panueniropristis CdhrUld. 429. p. 193. scrihiK 430. p. 193. PARACIRRHITLS. p. 181. PARACIRRHITKS ARC ATUS, 396. p. 182*. LORSTLRl, 395. p. 181. PL. 14. PdrdcUhdrus tndvrolepis, 305. p. 157. Paracyttopsis sculdlus. 274, p. 145. pardJiseus, l.dhroides, 805, p. 291. PARATX)XL'S. STYLOPHTHALMUS. 138. p. 100*. PARACiOBlODON. pp. 329. 130. PARAGOBIODON EC'HINOCL PH A LI'S. 908. p. 330. PL. 72. PdrdhynnoJus robustus. 495. p. 210. PARALiCHTHODFS. p. 155. PARALICHTHODES ALCiOF.NSIS, 302, p. 156. PL. 10. PARALIPARIS, pp. 379. 380. PARALIPARIS AL'STRALIS, 1072, p. 380*. ('OPEL 1073. p. 380*. PARALLELUM, MYCTOPHUN!. 192. p. I |9. PARALLHLUS. C'OELORH YNCHUS. 232. p. 132*. PARAMONACANTHUS. pp. 401. 402. PARAMONACANn HUS BARNAROl. 1139, p. 402. PL. 88. Pdrdpempheris arpenieus. 640, p. 24"'. PARAPERUIDAE. P. 177. PARAPERCIS. p. 177. PARAPERCIS HEXOPHTHAl.MA. 380. p. 177. PI . 13. NEBLiLOSA. 381. p. 177. PI.. 13. PULC'HELl .A. 382. p. 177. Pi., 13. ROBINSC^M. 383. p. 178*. PAR.APl AGUSIA. p. !64. PARAPLAGUSiA BILINE.ATA, 335. p. 165*. Pdrdpld^usia marmoruni. 335. p. 165. .. nthinsoni. 335. p. 165. PARAPRLACANTHUS. p. 247. Pardpridconihus ar^enteu'. 640. p. 247. PARAPRIAC'ANTHUS CiUENTHIXI. 640. p. 247*. P.ARASCOLOPSIS. p. 260. PARASCOLOPSIS ERIOM.VIA. 686, p. 261. PI. . 41. PARASCORPIDAE, p. 185. PARASCORPIS. p. 185. PARASCORPIS TYPUS. 407. p. 185*. PARASITICUS. SIMENCHELYS. 1093. p. 387*. PARASPHENANTHIAS. p. 202. Pdrdsphenanthids microlepis. 464. p. 202. PARASPHENANTHIAS WI-BERI. 464 p '*0"' PE. 21. Parasphenoid, p. 83*. Ikirastromdteu.s niper, 500, p, 212. Pdrcomacu/dia, Raia, 68, p. 66. PdiTomaculalu.s, Chiioniyclcrus. 1189, p. 416. - Diodoii, 1189. p. 416 I’ARnAC IIIRUS, pp. 160. 161. I’ARDACIURUS MARMORATUS, .122, p. 161. pdrdaiis, Canihcrines, 1 144. p. 403. Mondcdnihus, 1144. p. 403 PAREXOCOETUS. pp. 125. 126. PAREXOCOETUS BRACHYPTERUS 215 p 126. PL. 7. Pdn’.xocoetus incnio, 215, p. 126. M mc.sopasier, 215. p. 126. Parts. Mouth, pp. 35*. 36. 83*. Pdrupeneus harherinus, 566. p. 229. cychsiomu.s, 570, p. 230. .. I'rdterculus, 564. p. 229. indicus, 567, p. 230. nuicrdnenid, 565. p. 229. pleurosiipnui, 568, p. 230. pdrva, Pseudoscidetuh 550, p. 226. Svidcdd, 550, p. 226. RARVIC'ERS. NETTASTOMA, 1119, p. ,195*. P(i.\limiclni\. Ddiyhalis. 80, p. 70. I’A.STINACUS, [7ASYA'IIS, 80, p. 70. I’L. 4. piisHnacus. Dasyhiilis. 80, p. 70. I'ATOCA. CHEU.()NOIX)N, 1201, p. 419*. ptiloca. Telraotloii, 1201, p. 419. ,. Tcirodtm. 1201. p. 419. piiro, Cliiws. 10(K), p. .557. I’AVO. INIISTIUS 811, p. 29,1. EM,. 60. I’AVOCl.lNUS, KKX), p. 157. I>1,. 81. E’OMAC'E^NI RUS, 757, p. 282, I>1.. 51. puvd. Xyrichlhys. 811. p. 291. E'AVOCE.INU.S, pp. 151, 157. I’AVOCE.ENUS E1E;TE:R()EK)N. 1001, p. 157. 1>1,. 80. E’AVO, 1000. p. 157. I'l.. 81. pdvoninu.s, l.ulidims. 661, p. 254. Pi>ma< enlrus. 757, p. 282. Xvriihthys. 811, p. 293. pcdolopesi. (i/duco.sonid, 456. p. 2(K). RI;aO! OREiSI. ORLIXJNA I HUS. 463. p. 202*. PECTINATUS. PRISTIS, 59. p. 63. PL. 3. Pectoral tin. pp. 35*. 81*. 82. PECTORAITS, AUSl ROGLOSSUS, 325, p. 162. PI.. 11. 1,AE-;()PS. .307. p. 157*. pectordlis. Ldnihdopseifa, 307, p. 157. Sy/idptuni, 325, p. 162. PECTOROSUS. HEPTRAVCHIAS, 3. p. 39. Pedicel, p. 83. PEDICULATI. p. 425. peduncle. Caudal, p. 81*. Peduncular keel. p. 35*. PECiASinAE. p. 173. PEtiASUS. p. 173. PEGASUS I7RACON1S. 371, p. 173. PL. 12. NATANS. 372, p. 173*. PECiUSA, pp, 161. 163. PECiUSA LASCARIS. 327. p. 163. Pelagic eggs. p. 28. Pelagic zone, p. 5. pe/dptcus. l.dmpris, 262. p. 141. PEl.AGICUS. SYNGNATHUS. 353, p. 168. PELAMIS. I^THYNNUS. 829. p. 298. PL. 65. pcldmys. (iymnouirdd. 829. p. 298. .. K'disuwonus, 829. p. 298. Peiamys platurus. p. 25. PI . 100. PIT.ATES, pp. 183, 184. RELATES OGA13RIL1NEATUS. 402, p. 184. PL. 15. Pe/ecinonumus picklei. 209. p. 124. PEI LONA, pp. 90, 92. PELLONA DITCH! LA. 116, p. 93*. Peltona hoevenii. 116, p. 93. ,. ndudensis, 116, p. 93. PEELONULOPS. p. 90. PELL(3NULOPS MADAGASCARIENSIS. 110, p. 91*. PELLUCIDUS, PAPYRICHTHYS, 851, p. 305*. pellucidus, P.senes, 851, p. 305. Pelvic fin. pp. 35*. 81*, 82. Pelvic fin. Abdominal, p. 82. Pelvic fin, .lugular, p. 82. Pelvic fm. Thoracic, p. 82. PEMPHERIDAE, p. 247. PEMPHERIS, p. 247. Pcnipheris ddustus, 642, p. 248. ,, mdupuld, 643, p. 248. PEMPHERIS MOLUCA, 643. p. 248. Pempheris otditensis, 642, p. 248. PEMPHERIS OUAI.ENSIS, 642, p. 248. PL. 34. SCHWENKI. 641. p. 247 peiiiHinli, Mdundicu.s, 155, p. 105. pentacdnlhus, Ldctophrys. 1180, p. 413. ,, Ostrdchm, 1180, p. 413. PdUdceros cdpensis, 621, p. 242. pentaddctyUi, Novacidd, 812, p. 293. PRNTADACTYl.US, HEMIPTERONOTUS, 812, p. 293. PL. 60. PENTANCHUS, pp. 52, 54. PENTANCHUS MICRDPS. 41. p. 54*. Pentdnchus saldanhd, 41, p. 54. PENTAPODIDAE., p. 249. PENTAPODUS, p. 249. Pentapodus durolincdtus, 648, p. 250. PENTAPODUS DUX, 647, p. 249. pentazond, Hepdlu.s, 608, p. 240. I'euthis, 608, p. 240. peranndlus, Di.ssonui, 180, p. 114, Percd niprd, 850. p. 305. Penis, polyophthdlma, 380, p. 177. „ pidchella, 382, p. 177. PERCOMORPHl, p. 175. PERDEIIO, I.EJMDAPLOIS. 776, p. 287. PL. 52. PERIOPHIHALMIDA!:, pp. .329. 337. PERIOPIEI HAI.MUS, pp. 337, 338. PI.RIOPIEI HALMUS. ALTICOPS, 970. p. 348. PI . 75. CANTONENSIS. 936, p. 338*. Periophthdlmus koelreuferi, 936. p. 338. periophlhdhtius, Saiaria.s. 970, p. 348. PERISTEDIIDAE. pp. 366. 380. PERISTEDION. p. 380. PERISTEDION ADI^NI. 1074. p. 380. PL. 86. „ WITiliRI. 1075. p. 381*. PERONI. ACANTHALUTLRIiS. 1148. p. 405. peroni, Cdntherines, 1148. p. 405. perrintefi. Pri.siis, 58, p. 63. PERVACiOR. p. 401. PERVACiOR MEI.ANCX'EPHALUS. 1137. p. 401. PI.. 88. pessulijerum, Ple< iroponid, 417. p. 189. PETAI IHTHCYI17AE. p. 129. PETALICHTHYS. p. 129. PETAI ICHTHYS CAPliNSIS. 225, p. 129*. pelerseniis Gdhius, 913a. p. 507. netersi. Psilonoius, 1210, p. 421. .. I'etrodon, 1210, p. 421. Iropidichihys. 1210. p. 421. PETERSII. DINOPERCA. 454. n. 199*. petersii. Hdpdh^penys, 454. p, 199. PETIMBA, EISTULARIA. 361. p. 171. PL. 12. PinRAITES. pp. 350, 353. PETRAITES BRIiVICRlSTATUS. 985. p. 353. PL. 78. Pclniiies Idurentii, 999. p. 357. merudlis. 998. p. 357. pEnRArn;s wooDi, 984, p. 353. pl. 77. PETROSClRTES. pp. 343, 345. Petroscirtes hdrbatus, 959. p. 345. ,, cynodon, 960. p. 346. ,, elonpatus, 958, p. 345. ,. fildmentosus, 961, p. 346. ,, jdponkus, 957. p. 345. ., kdllosonui. 956. p. 345. PETROSCIRTES MITRATUS. 959, p. 345. PL. 74. 536 COMPOSUK INDKX PctroscirU’s rhinorhyncho^. 962. p. .M6. .. iitpeinosoma, 963. p. 346. .. varuihiJi.K, 960, p. 346. \uHHii. 955. p. 345. PHTRUS, p. 277. PHTRUS RUPMSTRIS. 741, p. 277. PI. 4S. pjciffcri, Gynrni)lhora.\. 1131. p. 399. .. l.ycodonii.s^ 1131. P- 399. .. Muraenu. 1131, p. 399. Pharyngeals. p. 83*. Pharyngeals. Lower. o\' Anchii hix’rops, p. 2S4*. PHARYNCiOClNATHI. p. 284. PMFKAnOPl.r.URA. STL;TH0JUI is. S04. p. 291. PL. 57. PHl'NGODLS. MVC'T(7PHI'M. 19S. p. 121*. phiiJipi. ffcteroilo’iiuw 4. p. 39. phiUipsi, D(iliiri(L\. 46. p. 56. PHlIiGON, S't'NCiNATHDS. 349. p. 16S. PHOTIOlTbn S. pp. 102. 104. PHOTlCHTinS ARGLNTnUS, 153, p. 104*. Phiidchlfiys Ci>rythot'oius. 152. p. 104. PHTHLlRU'HTinS. p. .341. PHTHEIRIC HTHVS I INLATL’S. 945. p. .Ml*. Phylum, p. 20- PHYSICUI LS. pp. 137. 140, PHYSIGl-LUS GAPLNSIS. 260. p. 140*. NATAI.FNSIS. 259. p. !40 PR'KLLL CI-TOMIMUS. 209. p. 124*. pickh'i. Pelccinoniwiu'^, 209. p. 124. PK'TA. SinFRl'A. 1131. p. .399. PI. 103. piitus, Chiietodo/h 599. p. 238. PICTUS. t'HALNAX. 1233. p. 430. PI . 95. Dio^rdnuuci. 688. p. 261. Cyrnnothorii.w 1131. p. 399, l.ycodontis. 1131. p. 399. \furtifnu. 1131. p. 399. .. Plevtorhyiiihus. 688. p. 261. PICTl'S. SPILOTICHI in S. 688. p. 261 PI. 42. Pi/ne/epii’ru\ iincrii\ieii'>. 638. p. 246. tiuwufdit’ri. 638. p. 246. tdiht.x. 639, p. 247 .. 6.39. p. 247. inJiiids. 638. p. 246. .. inJkus. 6.39. p. 247. rdy/uiliii. 638. p. 246. PINGL'IS. HFPSFTIA. 894. p. 325. PI. 68. pinntJtd, Harriiirtu. 96. p. 78. PINNATLS. PI ATAX. 577. p. 232*. S> NAPOBRANC HLS. 1089. p. 386* PINNICEPS. ANTFNNARlLS. 12.39. p. 431. PI . 98. PINNL'LATLS, CIRRHITGS. 394. p 181. PI 14 PINTO. ABRANC'HFS. 909. p. 331. PI. '2. PISC.ATORILS. lOPHlLS. 1225. p 426" Pisces. p. 20. PISOOONOPHIS. pp. 388. 389. PISODONOPHIS BORO. MOO. p. 389* CANCRINORLS. llOOd. p. 510*. Placodermi. p. 20. piaehxJe'.mu’i. PifiJi>rhvmhu'.. 691. p. 262. PI AGIOOESMUS. PSFL DOPRISTIPOM a 69|. p. 262. PL- 42. PEAGIOGENEION. p. 231. PLAGIOGENEION RLBIGINOSLS. 575. p. 231. PL. 28. PLAGIOSLNL CHlLOSCn LI IL M. 31. p. 51*. plagiosum. 31. p. 5). Pla^usia luhi. 340. p. 166. miirniiiriiio. 335. p. 165. .. rtihin\t‘ni. 335. p. 165. PLANCTANTHIAS. p. 200. PLANCTANTHIAS PR AFOPERC'L L A R I S. 4^5 p. 200. PL. 21. PLATACIDAE. p. 232. PLATAX, r- 232. Ptatax orhU’uhiri',. 577. p. 232. PLATAX PINNATLS. 577, p. 232* Platax leira. 577, p. 232. vespertilkt. 577. p, 232. Plalophrys tircuiuris, 316. p. 160. Pldtophrys (Iinu>iphu\\ 313. p. 159. .. yrdiiiliupuinui, 313. p. 159. nidiicuy. 318. p. 160. .. iivdiiy, 316. ]•*. 160. pmiiherinus. 317, p. |60. platuius. Pclumys, p. 25. PI . 100. PI ATY(T PHAl lOAF. pp. 366. 377. PLA'l'YGLPMAl US, p. 377. 1>I ATYGI PMAI liS GROGOOll.liS. 1064. p. 378. C.RANninil Rl. 1065. p 378. PI , 86. pliiiycephdius. Htpininrhun, 2. p, 38. Pldtyi'vphdlus hetcfolepis. 1068, p. 379. PI AlAfl PlLAl US lNni(T‘S. I0(.3, p. 378*. PL. 86. Pidtyct'phdlu\ iiniitxhyiichu\. 2. p. 38. /*i‘iryct‘phdiii\ pdniUiuulu\. 1065, p. 378. PI AlAC'I'l'MAI LIS PRISnS, 1067. p. 379. Pldflt fphdlus pufhldtus. 1064. p. 378. PI A r> C'l PH A1 L'S SC' AHl K. 1069. p, 379. I I NI AGIT ATUS. 1066. p. 378*. LL'Bl KGUl A T L'S. 1068, p. 379. Phifyylit'-'^us ifyloniyus. 795. p. 290. .. tluwumivri. 791. p. 289. hiiyiukini4\, 793. p. 290. • 'prr( i4lniinidti4'<. 792. p. 290, , r(>hiinoni. 794, p. 290, ,. ■>■1 dpul(4ri\. 795. p. 290. PJt4iy\it‘ih44\ hi4iii>ni. 398. p. 182 PI A^T.AIRII. GIRRHIMl RAINA. U8>9. p. 389 pldyfdirii. (iphiyhlhx'.. U199, p, 389 PllBFlF'S. PGl ’iOAGT 3 I L'S, 89S. p. 327. plrhitd'^. P<>iynfnii4\. 898. p. 327, PI 1 CTORin Nt HlDAl . p 261 PJfi fi>rh\ fhhu\ ihdhbi, 689. p. 262. .. i ri4\\i\pinu'-. 690. p. 262. 696, p. 263. .. ilidvrdntnm, 696. p. 26 1 .. ilurbtinfn\t\ 692. p. 262 .. fdt'ieUi. 697. p. 26 1 i:dlfrittu\. 694, p. 26 L .. i!ri\ru\. 692. p 262. 69h. p, 26L Ildt'dtu-^. 69,^. p. 26l 691'). p 2h2. .. pit lu<'. 688. p. 261 pitivi^xirs/nii--. 69|. p 262 punihiiu'-. 688. p 261 reiuuJorw-. 691. p 262. M h'dil'. 692, p. 262 Plt\tri>mu\ n >rMH>.\J p IK9 PI K IROPOMl S. p 189 PIKTROHTMLS MAC! I AT IS 41" r I K9 PI . P PI I SIOPIDM . p. IH6 PI 1 Slops, p 1K6, Pir\t"p\ y df'uir' lou-iltU'. 4|t* p 1 86. .. i >>! allh 410, p 186 Pl.l S101>S Mil AS, 411. p 18’ NK.RK ANS 410 p 186* PI FL kONI t HUM . pp P4 P' PI LL Rose OPIOAl . p. 177. PI f LROSC (3Pl S p I7-' PI I I ROSCT)Pl S PSH I>(>I>OKSAl IS. 379 p 177* PI I L ROSPII OS. PSl L Ot PI NT I S. 569. p 210 PI . 28. SPH AI ROIOI S. 1191. r 417 PI . 94 p/rurmpilu-y. Irinxintt. 1191. p, 417, plcui'iistiK'd.i. Ptd'iipvfictis. 568, p. 2lO. P'yi'uiiiipciH’us, 56X. p.2.30, PI I LKOFAl NIA, PST I il H I PlTF I.IS. 571, p. 230*. IM . 20. IM 101 Rl MA, p. 61. IMIOIRIMA VVARRl NI. 57. p. rj2. JT . 3. Pi 0 IOSII1AI . p. 108. IM 0 lOSUS. p 108. IM OlOSLIS ANGUIl 1 ARIS. 161. p. |()K*. PI , 6. Plid>>\l4\ di'dh. 161. p. 108. .. pt4pi4<‘fi\i\. 16,1. p. 108 IM ll( HUS. p. 261. IMU lll'S ( MUhBL 689. p. 262 PI. 42. pliiidfH'us. i tn'dnw 518. p. 217. I'lU'Ufltdtiiphiil'U'' 819. p. 1(K) l»()l ( II OPSI I I A. p. I 55. /’<'<•( 100, p. 1^. POICIIOPSI ILA NAIAIINSIS .301. P 155*. POl I I. (.1 RKI S. 610. p. 244. Pomfctl cautlal, p. K2. I’t>ist)n III tisiK*''. p. 28. I’oiNinuujs 61 fishes. Substauecs. p .12. POl > AMBI 3 onoN. i>p 274. 271. POl > AMHl > ODON ( KISIK I IS . 714. p. 275* IM 44 ( il R M AM rvi , 715. p- 275*. (.IHBOSl N. 731. p. 275. POl 5 l)A( I N I US. p 127 POl 5 DAC I N I L S ISOK 1 S. 89', p. 127. IM 1 B1 II S. 8»K, p 127*. SI \ I AKH S, '>00. p 127. POl 5 Il’NLS p 106 POl 5 IPS! S SIMNOSl S, 09. p 107*, P‘>l\nu-iint' 02. p 1P4 i,»\ihdi;>lii. 02, p MM POl > \il\l A. p I 1'> POMMIXIA NOBIl IS. 2X1. p 4‘>* POl 'i MIXIIOAI pp 14K. 14'i P(M')MNIS AMIMHI’KION. 74'. p 279V POl I NI M (lOBll S. 92(». 11 14- POl 5 NI Min A I pp 316, 126. /'.'/wif'niit 8“9, p 127. /I'lft/liiv 898. P 127 pit’biu'. 89K, p 127 898, p 127 P“i\ ■ -nhlhiiidtd. 180, p 177 I^OI 1 OPM I H \l Ml S \N 1 I NNv Kll S. 1242. P 411 IM 98 OPIIIC Him S llOld. p 510 PI 1(8) IMIXI/ONA KMlON V 1121. > '96 PI lOV POl > PRION, pp 190 198 POl > PRION VMIRK \M S 4*1. p |‘»9- /'../ipM. 4 S I I (. ASl S pp 27? 278 py'l \ ^^rv^inu' m y \ ■ ■n.i ’’4^. p 2h POl 5 S I I (, A SL S ( 01 R I I I '>1*1 N( TAILS ’44 p :'’8 PI 4‘> py!\ I/' nufiit 740. p 277. 1*01 5 SI U, AN I S PR \1 ORBI I V| IS ’4 1. p 27> PI 49 I M)l I OSl s ’42. r 2"8 PI 4'> r 449 p p6 Si Ki t h'iiu ' 4 2 p * ' \rrr inu 449, p 198 .-.-M .- -f Hirr -- 14’, r L7, Ihri.tr •> 40: p |.‘'4 l*OM A( \N 1 Hin \l p 2M l*OM A< AN I Ml S p 2 M l*OMA( ASIHIS IMPIKMOK *^8*. p 20 PI ,6' SI MU IK( I I \TUS. 584, p 2n PI ii). St Rl A I L S. <81, p. 235. PL. 29 POM\( I NTRl S p :m POMAllMRLS ANSI I Alls. 7.<4. p. 281 PI <0 P'-fHiii rnim-' /M/j/tw/if/isM. 75<>. p 28 1. hi-H rdiilu'-. 7<(i. p 2M . COMPOSITE INDEX 537 }\>nnHentnis ihry\i/ru\^ 756. p. 281. (Idunis. 756. p. 281. donyaius. 756. p. 281. cmaryinatu'i. 756. p. 281. notutus. 757. p. 282. POM.ACENTRUS ()PE;RCUt.4RlS. 758. p. 282. PL. 50. PimuHCntrus opisihosli^nia. 756. p. 281. POMAC'LNTRUS PA VO. 757. p. 282. PL. 51. Ponuiccntrus paynninus. 757. n. 282. P()MA('HNTRUS SINDF-NSIS. 755, p. 281. PI . 51. Piinuicemrus laeniofnctonon. 756. p. 281. .. trilineutus. 756. p. 281. POMACT.NTRUS TR 1 PUNCTATUS. 756. p. 281-^. P,)inucentru\ iropicus, 756. p. 281. y(inic<>/en.\is. 756. p. 281. ronzih(uienyis, 765. p. 28.L POMAnAS'i'IOAL;. p. 257. POMAOASYS. p. 257. Poniuclasys bcnneitii. 675. p. 257. furcdiiim. 682. p. 260. POMADASYS OUORAKA. 674, p. 257*. LIASTA. 676, p. 258*. Panuulasys imi'.i/s. 675. p. 257. POMADASYS MACULATUS, 677, p. 258. PL. 40. MUi.TlMACULATUM. 678, p. 258. PI . 40. OLIVAC'KUM. 675. p. 257. PI.. 40. OPFRCULARE. 679. pp. 258, 506. PI . 40. Ponnu/asys str'unum. 680. p. 259. str'ulens, 681, p. 259. taeniophorus, 682. p. 260. POMATOMIDAE, p. 224. POMATOMUS. p. 224. POMATOMUS SALTATOR. 547, p. 224. PI . 24. Pomaiomus siihatrix. 547. p. 224. Pontpihis nii’cr. 850. p. 305. rondeleiih 850. p. 305. porcatus, lialisics, 1171. p. 410. poncllus. Momuufuhus. 1140. p. 402. PORCOSTO.MA. pp. 266. 270. PORCOSTOMA DFNTATA. 717. p. 270. PL. 48. F’OROI^I^RMA. pp. 52. 53. PORODI RMA AFRIC ANLiM. 37. p. 53*. PL. 2. MARLF.YI. 35, p. 53. PL.. 2. PANTlIFiRlNUM, 36. p. 53*. POROCiADUS, pp. 360. 364. POROCiADUS MILES, 1022. p. 364*. Poroyranum/s aipensis. 1028. p. 366. p<>ro.\(i. Dui^ronuiui, 849a. p. 304. .. Hyperoi'lyphe. 849a. p. 304. poro.sus. l.irus\ 849a, p. 304. POROSUS. PAl-INURlCHTin S. 849a. p. 304. Porihnicus aryenieus. 539, p. 222. praenpenulitris. t-pinephelus. 438. p. 196. PRAFOPF.RCULARIS. PLANC'TANTHIAS, 455. p. 2(X). PL. 21. pracorhitoHs. Deniex. 743. p. 278. PRALORBITALIS, POLYSTEGANUS. 743. p. 278. PL.. 49. proctextaius, Cymoluies. 820. p. 295. prcl'crence. Page. p. 19. Premaxilla, pp. 81*. 83*. Preopercle. pp. 81*. 83. Preorhiial depth, p. 84*. Preservation of fishes, p. 33. PRETIOSUS. RUVETTUS. 861. p. 309*. PRIACANTHIDAE. p. 184. PRIAC'ANTHUS. p. 184. Prhuanfhus a'uilua. 406. p. 185. amic/arens. 404. p. 184. PRIACANTHUS ARENATUS. 405. p. 185. liOOPS. 404. p. 184*. Primanihus caiolinus. 403. p. 184. PRIAC'ANTHUS CRUENTATUS. 403. p. 184. Priacamhus fax. 404. p. 184. PRIACANTHUS HAMRUR. 406. p. 185. PL. 15. Priacamhus japonicus. 404, p. 184. ,, macrapus. 404, p. 184. Priacamhus speculum. 406. p. 185. .. velabundus. 404. p. 184. princeps. Taracies. 860. p. 309. PRINGLEL PALINURK'HTHYS. 849, p. 304*. Prionolepis hewitti. 615. p. 241. Priopis lun^i. 636. p. 246. PRISTIDAE. p. 62. PRISTiOPHORAE, pp. 37. 61. PRISTIOPHORID.AE. p. 61. PRISTIOPHORUS. p. 61. PRISTIOPHORUS CIRRATUS. 56. p. 61. Prisiipoma i>uoraka. 674. p. 257. hasia. 676. p. 258. .. macu/aiuni. 677. p. 258. muhimaculatum. 678. p. 258. niyru.s. 690, p. 262. opcrculare. 679. p. 258. striaium. 680. p. 259. siridens. 681. p. 259. taeniophorus. 682. p. 260. PR1STIPOMOH9ES. pp. 251, 252. Pristipomoides argyro^rammicus. 653. p. 252. PRISTIPOMOIDES FI 1. A M ENTOSUS. 653, p. 252. PL. 36. Pristipomoides microiepis. 653, p. 252. sieholdii. 653, p. 252. typus. 653. p. 252. PRISTIS. p. 62. Prist is cirrhatus. 56. p. 61. prist is. Grammoplites, 1067. p. 379. PRISTIS MICRODON. 58. p. 63. PECTINATUS. 59, p. 63. PI . 3. Pristis perrotteti. 58, p. 63. PRISTIS. PLATYCEPHALUS. 1067, p. 379. PROBOSCIDEA. VENEFICA. 1118. p. 395. PROCERUS. LAMPANYCTUS. 206. p. 123*. productus. Chlorophthalmus. 184. p. 115. profundus. Gobiomorphus. 935a. p. 507. .. Quisquilius. 935a. p. 507. PROMICROPS, pp. 190. 198. PROMICROPS LANCEOLATUS. 452. p. 198. PL. 19. PSAMMOCiC:)BlUS. pp. 329. 330. PSAMMOCiOBlUS KNYSNAENSIS. 906, p. 330. PL. 71. PSF.[:)NOS. p. 379. PSEDNOS MICRURUS. 1071. p. 379. PSENES. pp. 302. 305. Psenes chapmani. 854. p. 306. PSENES CYANOPHRYS. 854. p. 306. Psenes guttatus. 853. p. 306. PSENES INDICUS. 852, p. 306*. Psenes javanicus. 854. p. 306. pelluiidus. 851. p. 305. PSENES ROTUNDUS. 854a. p. 307*. Psenes sligmapleuron. 853. p. 306. PSENES WHITELEGIL 853. p. 306*. PSETTODES. p. 154. PSETTODES ERUMEl. 299. p. 155*. PSETIODIDAE. p. 154. PSEUDALUTARIUS. pp. 405. 406. PSEUDALUTARIUS NASICORNIS. 1154. p. 406*. Pseudaluterius nasicornis. 1154. p. 406. rhinoceros. 1154. p. 406. pseudoalatus. Mvetophum. 204. p. 123. PSEUDOBALISTES. pp. 407. 409, PSEUDOBAI ISTES FLAVOMARGINATUS. 1167. p. 409*. FUSCUS. 1168. p. 410. PI . 91. Pseudobatrachus foedus. 1218. p. 423. PSEUDOBRANCHIAE, p. 84. PSEUDOCHEILINUS. pp. 285. 294. Pseudocheilinus evanidus. 819. p. 294. PSEUDOCHEILINUS HEXATAENIA. 819. p. 294. PL. 61. Pseudocheilinus octoiaenia. 819. p. 294. PSEUDOCHROMIDAE, p. 185. PSEUDOCHROMIS, p. 185. PSEUDOCHROMIS NATALENSIS, 408. p. 185. PI.. 15. Pseudocyttus macu/atus, 276. p. 146. PSEUDODORSALIS. PLFUROSCOPUS, 379. p. 177*. pseudominiatus. Platyglossus. 792, p. 290. Pseudomonacamhus modestus. 1149. p. 405. PSEUDOPENTACEROS. p. 242. PSFUDOPENTACFROS RICHARL9SONL 622, p. 242. PL. 35. PSEUDOPRISTIPOMA. pp. 261. 262. PSEUDOPRISTIPOMA NKiRUS. 690. p. 262*. PLAGIODESMUS. 691. p. 262. PI . 42. PSF.UDORHOMBUS. p. 156. Pseudorhombus andersoni. 304. p. 156. PSEUDORHOMBUS ARSIUS. 304. p. 156. PL.. 10. Pseudorhombus nata/ensis. 304. p. 156. ., pantherinus. 317. p, 160. polyspilus. 304. p. 156. .. russellii. 304. p. 156. Pseudoscarus cauilofasciafus. 821. p. 295. oviceps. 821. p. 295. Pseudosciaena parva. 550. p. 226. sina. 550. p. 226. vogleri. 550. p. 226. PSEUDUPENEUS. pp. 228. 229. PSEUL9UPENFUS BARBERINUS. 566. p. 229. PL. 27. C'YCLOSTOMUS. 570. p. 2.30. FRATERC'ULUS. 564, p. 229. PL. 27. INDICUS. 567. p. 230. PL. 27. MACRONEMA. 565. p. 229*. PL ELiROSPll.OS, 569. p. 230- PL.. 28. PLFUROSTICiMA. 568. p. 230. PL.EUROTAENIA. 571, p. 230*. PI . 20. Psilonotus amboinensis. 1211. p. 421. marvarifatus. 1210. p. 421. natalensis. 1211. p. 421. ocellatus. 1210. p. 421. .. netersi. 1210, p. 421. valentini. 1208. p. 420. PTARMUS. p. 367. PTARMUS JUBATUS. 1030, p. 367*. Ptarmus languidus. 1030. p. 367. PTERACLU‘)AE. pp. 297. 313. PTERACL.IS. p. 313. eraclis ocellatus. 870, p. 313. papilio. 870. p. 313. PTERACLIS VFLIFERA. 870. p. 313. PL.. 67. PTERAGOGUS. pp. 285. 290. Pteragogus filameniosus. 796. p. 290. PTERAGOCiUS OPERCULARIS, 797. p. 290. PL. 59. ,. T.AENIOPS. 798, p. 290. PI , 59. PTEROG'i'MNUS. pp. 266. 270. PTEROCiYMNUS L.ANlARIUS. 718. p. 270. PL. 48. PTEROiS. pp. 369. 373. PTEROIS ANTENNATA. 1046a. pp. 373 508. PL. 102. Pterois brachypterus. 1050. p. 374. kodipungi. 1048. p. 373. PTEROIS MACRURUS. 1046. p. 373. PTEROIS MILES. 1047a. pp. 373. 508. natalensis. 1046. p. 373. nigripinnis. 1046. p. 373. PTEROIS RUSSELLII, 1048, p. 373. VOLITANS. 1047. p. 373*. Frontispiece- Pterois rebra. 1049, p. 374. PTEROMUGIL. pp. 317, 319. PTEROMUC}!!. DIADEMA. 881. p. 319*. PTEROMYLAEUS. pp. 68. 69. PTEROMYLAEUS BOX'INUS. 77. p. 69*. Pteromylaeus punctatus. 74. p. 68. Pterophryne histrio. 1243. p. 431. Pteroplatea japonica. 85. p. 71. micrura. 85. p. 71. natalensis. 86. p. 71. PTEROSMARIS. p. 265. 538 COMPOS IT H INDEX PTEROSMARIS AXILI.ARIS. 704, p. 265. PI.. 4.1. PTEROTUM. MYCTOPHUM. 197, p. 121. Pfi’rycoinbus f'alcatus. K71, p, 31.1. Pterygoids, p. 83*. puficepholus. Chrysophrys, 721. p. 272. PUl.CHELLA, P.ARAPERCIS, 382. p. 177. PI.. 13, puh'hclla, Percis, 382. p. 177. pulcherrima, C.oris, . Race ot‘gr\'\A{h. p. 501. raynaliii, Pimelepierus. 638. p- 248>. rayneri. CaieDcerdr. 14. p. 44 Ravs. pp. 81. 82. ray>. Rranchiosiegal. pp. 81*. s4 reciangu/us. Ridoiapu^. i ! 70. p. 410. Paiisies. 1170. p. 410. RECTANCiULL S. RHiSK ANTHL S ! 1 7o p 4|0 PL. 91. RECTILRONS. ST:[ PU ANOLLPIS. i!4| p 4m"- REGALECUS, p. 14!. REG.ALECU'S GLESNE. 263. p. 141. PL. M Regan. C. T., p. 26. regard. Aesopiu, 320. p. 161, .. Haluelurus. 43. p. 55. Heier,>narie. 90. p, 74. REGAM. HOLOHAI AELURLS. 43 p PL. 2. regani. Scy/lujrhinu-.. 43. p. 55. Symphurus. 334, p. I64. Svnapiuru. 320. p. 161, RF.GAM. ZEBRIaS. 320. p. 16i. PL. 10. Region, South .African, p. 7. Kl (ilUS, 1 AMPRIS. 262, p. I U. PI . 8. R1-1NUAR17 i 1. M'tCK)l*UUM. 199, p. |i| rcinhardiii. Uitnanlolophtis. 1 230. p, 429. Rcla(ii>iisliips. dinicn.sional. p, 84, rendgera. Sciarchcs. 103(). )x .370. RS'MOKA. p. 141. RLMOK A Al HI SCI NS. 946. p, 141. BK.ACin 1*1 I KA, 948. p, 342. remora, i'chcncis. 947, p. .141. RI MGKA RIMOK.A, 947. p. 341*. Rt NAKHL St 1 I IIO.IUI IS, 79'), p, ’91, P| S7 Koi’ioJucCion, pp. 28. 36. RcpiXKluciionN, p. 4, rc'.nlcruJcfO, I aniium\clu\. 207, p. |.■’4. Rescricled gill-opening, p. 83. rciiculaius, /ioZ/mcv. 1168. p. 410. I>tia yllus. 753. |x 280. .. Paigianiniii. (>9 1, p, .’62. Ploilon. 1184, |x 415, .. I pincphclus . 449, p, |9S Rl I KT t A 1 US. G A I I KIN. 691, p p| i rciicidiiiu\. Hchii\ic\. 75 3. p. 280. .. P/t\ finhy/u hu\. (>9 I, p. 2(>2. ■Scrriinu\, 449, p. |9S. iciifcr, Ophuhihm. 1101, p, 3'M). rciigriim/na. i ctddi‘\t(|( i PS, 708. p 2(,7‘ S \KB A, 710, p 268 p| 47_ 1 KICUSF1I>| NS, 7D9, p 2,,K PI 4^ Rhai.h\iciin\in laraidutn. ,^48, p 22*', Rluichvccnirum mnihlum. 548, p. 225 Rhci i>>iiriirn>nii shcrhurnt, 498. p. 212. RUIN \. p. *106 KHINV ANC \ 1 OSIOAI 59.i. p. MU* RlllNYODON. p. 50. RHIN( (>l>ON n PI S. 29. p ^n* RinNCGUOM in\| , pp Up Ml RltlM I AN 1 m S. pp 41(7. 410. RIIINU \ \ I lU S A6 I I 1 A n S. I If.'), p 4 hi FI ')| Kl t I \N(,t 1 I S. 1170 p, 410 Pi 'Jl. Rh:'u- -J ■•I lo. 2^). p Ml .. !'.pu\. 29. p S() R/nui' , •'>;;{ s 8/. I P4. p 41 1. . al.K.au^. I I ■’4. p 411, I ,, 4,2 ■ I r4. p 411 nsf'in,'. I 1 7s p 41 ' KIIIMIIX} . p Mi* KHINOH \1 II) \1 , pp f,: a) KHINOBMOS pp fU (U KUINOBMOS VNNI. I \ I t S, 6?. p t,4 i>| Ill tK Mil M p *.4 PI ; oim St s ( : 1’ S( Ml I ( .M 1 M. :■ f.4 -6* "1 6| , p tA ■. f> V p **4 n.u.i f'2 p f.4 " .. f.4 P 6J .'•X.. i:,-. f. ' p ».4 ■: • . fv4 f.4 ('2 p f»4 au-. a) p <,4 . f. I p 1.4 ih-.ii n.. , | 1 <4 Jix," KHINOt HIM \l Kin \l , p iipnri.. 2^^. p 50 op/., 2'l, p 50, KlIINOIM I R \ pp hs, VI! KHINOKIIKV JX\\MC \ P 5(i4<. KHIM )R in IKIS. ASIMIK )M 1 S. p ;4f. 1*1 :i, rhiruirht III h,,. I'rh ... i, I,- • 'H,2. I' 140 Khipnli.iij, pp. ^1, 7<) KIII/A( am III S, R\IA 71, p (v7, PI 1. RH(nin<)in,\i IS, Slot Vi ns. mk. p, 147*, rhiimh,,„li-,. ’•Ki. pi 2 15, Rh:.ftih,H.i!t hihi ■ p.inrfu-' . 117. }. U4I. COMPOSITE INDEX 539 Bhombohiichthys \pilurus. 314, p. 159. .. .spi/iiccps, 314, p. 159. RHONCISC'US. p. 259. RHONCISCUS anas. 682, p. 260. Pi . 40. STRl.ATUS. 680. p. 259. PL. 40 STRIDENS, 681. p. 259^. RH'i NCHORATUS, p. 63. RH’l NCHOBATUS njHDl^lHNSlS. 60, p. 63*. RH’l NCHOHYALUS, p. 97. RHVNCHOHYALUS NATALFNSIS. 128. p. 97 RlCHARDSONl. ASTRONESTHES. 139. p. 101*! rhluirilsoni. Borosiomias. 139, p. 101. Gymnothorax. 1129. p. 398. Muraena. 1129, p. 398. RlCHARDSONl, PSEUDOPENTACEROS, 622, p. 242. PL. 35. rinaens. lialislcs, 1159, p. 408. ,. Bali.sies, 1165, p. 409. .. ConthUlernus, 1165, p. 409. RINGENS. MFIJCHTHYS, 1159. p. 408*. XANTHICH T HYS. 1165. p. 409. PL. 90. vivuUiius, hiihlennius, 972, p. 349. RIVULATUS, LIJTIANUS, 666, p. 255. PL. 38. ri\ulcitus\ Salarias, 972, p. 349. RIVULATUS, SIGANUS, 902, p. 328. PL. 67. robinsoni, Chrysophrys, 707, p. 267. „ Denie.w 649, p. 250. Gytnnocrdnins, 649. p. 250. ROBINSONI. HALICMOERES. 794. p. 290. robirisoni, Hopleynaihus, 462. p. 202. ROBINSONI. OPLEGNATHUS. 462. p. 202*. PL. 39. PARABEMBRAS. 1062. p. 377. PL. 97. PARAPERCIS. 383, p. 178. robinsoni. Piiraplagusia, 335. p. 165. ,. Plagushi, 335, p. 165. ,. PUnyylossus, 794, p. 290. ROBINSONI. SCIAENA. 557, p. 227. PL. 26. robinsoni. Snarus, 707. p. 267. L'mbrina, 557. p. 227. ROBUSTUS, Cl.INUS, 987. p. 354*. PL. 81. robnsius, Fpigonus, 495, p. 210. ROBUSTUS. H'i'NNOnUS. 495. p. 210*. MUGIL, 878. p. 318*. jobuslus. Parahynnodus. 495. p. 210. ROBUSTUS. STROPHIURICHTHYS. 1172. p. 411*. ROGAA. CEPHALOPHOLIS. 420, p. 19|*. rogaa, F.pinephelus, 420, p. 191. „ Scrranus. 420, p. 191. rondeleiii. Ccirchnrodon. 26. p. 49. Diplodiis, 713, p. 269. .. Pompilus. 850. p. 305. Sorgus. 713. p. 269. ., Scomhresox. 224. p. 129. Rooseveltici aloha. 654. p. 252. „ hrighami. 654, p. 252. rosea. Diacope, 662. p. 254. Luiianus, 662. p. 254. ROSEA. SCORPAENOPSIS. 1041. p. 371. PL. 85. ro.seipinni.s, Aniiay 481. p. 207. .. .-ipogon. 481. p. 207. roseus, F.pinephelus. 422. p. 191. ., Serranus. 422, p. 191. rossii, .Abudefduf. 769. p. 284. Glyphidodon, 769, p. 284. ROSTELLATUS, MYSTRIOPHiS. 1105. p. 390. rosiellaius. Ophichihys, 1105. p. 390. ROSTRATA. M.ACDONALDI A. 168, p. 110*. rostratus, Bathytroctes, 125. p. 96. ,. Leihrinus, 698. p. 264. rottleri. Megalaspis, 534, p. 221. ,, Scomber. 534, p. 221. ROTUNDATUS, MELANOCOETUS. 1232. p. 429*. roiundifrons. Clinus. 1002. p. 358. ROTUNDIFRONS, G YNUTOCLINUS. 1002, p. 358*. ROTUNDUS, PSENES, 854a. p. 307*. f^oughleyia larwhine. 710, p. 268. Rounded caudal, p. 82. RUBER, OTOLITHES, 553, p. 227. PL. 26 ruber, Otoliihus. 553, p. 227. RUBESCENS. ANTIGONIA, 579. p. 233. PL. 29. RUBIGINOSUS, PLAGIOGENEION, ^75 p PL. 28. ■ i ■ ^ ■ rubra, Franzia. 459, p. 201. RUBRUM. HOLOCENTRUS. 295, p. 153*. ruconius, Leiognathus, 624, p. 243. Idognathus, 624. p. 243. RUCONIUS, SECUTOR, 624, p. 243. rupesiris, Denfex, 741. p. 277. RUPESTRIS, doles, 413. p. 187*. rupesiris, Kuhlia. 413, p. 187. RUPESTRIS, PETRUS, 741, p. 277. PL. 48. ruppellii, Gymnocranius, 649. p. 250. .. Seriola. 536, p. 221. RUSSELLII. DECAPTERUS, 530. p. 220. russe/Ui. Uopempheris, 642, p. 248. RUSSELLII, LUTIANUS, 660. p. 254. PL. .39. russeUii, Pseudorhombus, 304, p. 156. RUSSELLII, PTEROIS. 1048. p. 373. TRACHINOTUS. 540. p. 222*. russeUii. i'peneus. 567, p. 230. RUVETTUS. p. 309. Ruveiius de/agoensis, 861, p. 309. RUVETTUS PRETIOSUS, 861, p. 309*. S Sacura nalaiensis, 456, p. 200. SAEGHA. AMBASSIS, 634, p. 245. SAGAX. ARENGUS, 115, p. 92. PL. 5. sagax, Clupea, 115, p. 92. Sardina, 115. p. 92. I'Ugifue. Macrorhamphosus, 364, p. 172. SAL.ARIAS, pp. 347, 348. Salarias deani, 970, p. 348. dussumieri. 975, p. 349. .. edeniulus. 971, p. 348. SALARIAS EUSCUS. 969, p. 348. Salarias gibbifrons, 970a, p. 508. .. hypeneies, 968, p. 348. .. kosiensis, ^65. p. 347. marmoraius. 973a. p. 508. ,. meleagris, 974, p. 349. ,, ooriii, 976, p. 350. „ orv.v, 972. p. 349. ,, periophlhalmus, 970. p. 348. ,, rivulatus, 972. p. 349. ,. sexfasciaius, 967. p. 348. .. unicolor, 973. p. 349. SALARIIDAE, pp. 342, 346. SALDANHA BATH\ BOGIUS. 912, p. 331*. saldanha, Gobius, 912, p. 331. „ Pentanchus. 41, p. 54. „ Scylliorhinus. 41, p. 54. saliens, Mugil. 882, p. 320. 890. p. 323. salmoneus, Chanos, 105, p. 88. salmonoides. Epinephelus. 447. p. 197. .. l.uiianus. 664. p. 255. .. Mesoprion. 664, p. 255. .. .Serranus. 447. p. 197. salpa. Boops. 731, p. 274. .. Box. 731, p. 274. SALPA. SARPA. 731, p. 274. PL. 47. Salt and Fresh Water. Fishes in. p. 29. SALTATOR. POMATOMUS. 547. p. 224. PL. 24. sallairix, Pomatomus. 547. p. 224. Salts, mineral, p. 7. SAMARIS, p. 156. SAMARIS CRISTATUS. 303. p. 156. PL. 10. Samaris delagoensis. 303. p. 156. .. ornalus. 303, p. 156. SAMMARA. HOLOCENTRUS. 294, p. 153. PL. 9. SAMOENSIS, MULLOIDICHTHYS. 573. p. 231. PL. 28. SANCTAEHELENAE. DECAPTERUS. 529, p. 220. SANCTIPETRl. CHORINEMUS. 545, p. 224. sanctipetri, Scomberoides, 545. p. 224. sandvichensis, Hepaius. 608, p. 240. Teulhis. 608, p. 240. SANDWICHIENSIS. AMANSf-.S, 1144, p 403* PL. 88. sandwichiensis. Caniherines. 1144. p. 403. „ Monacanthus. 1 144. p. 403. sangiensis, Amia. 478. p. 207. SANCilENSlS. APOGON. 478, p. 207*. sanguinea, Diacope, 663, p. 254. SANGUINEUS. LUTIANUS, 663, p. 254. PL. 37 sansun. Caranx, 520, p. 217. SANZOl. VINCINGUERRIA, 156, p. 106*. sarba. Ausirosparus. 710, p. 268. „ Chrysophrys. 710. p. 268. ,, Khabdosargus, 710, p. 268. Sparus, 710. p. 268. SARDA. pp. 297. 298. SARDA CHILENSLS, 832. p. 299. PL. 64. SARDA. 833, p. 299. PL. 66. Sardina ocellata. 115, p. 92. ,, saga.x. 115. p. 92. SARDINELLA. pp. 90. 91. SARDINELLA AURITA. 114a, p. 92. Sardinella gibbosa. 1 14. p. 92. SARDINELLA JLiSSIEU, 114. p. 92. MELANURA. 113. p. 92*. Sargus capensis. 713, p. 269. cervinus. 714, p. 269. SARGUS, DIPLODUS. 713. p. 269. PL. 44. Sargus durbanensis. 711. p. 268. holubi, 710, p. 268. hottenioius. 714, p. 269. luitalensis. 708, p. 267. „ nigrofasciaius. 708, p. 267. rondeletii. 713, p. 269. sargus. Sparus. 713. p. 269. SARPA. p. 274. SARPA SALPA, 731, p. 274. PL. 47. SAURIDA, p. 112. SAURIDA GRACILIS, 175. p. 113. Saurida grandisquamis, 176, p. 113. ,, japonica. 174. p. l|2. ,, nebulosa. 175. p. 113. SAURIDA TUMBIL. 177. p. 113. ,. UNDOSOUAMIS, 176. p. 113*. Saurus argyrophanes. 177. p. 113. ., atlanficus. 173. p. 112. „ badi. 177, p. 113. ,, breviroslris. 178. p. 113. SAURUS. ELOPS. 100, p. 86*. Saurus myops. 178, p. 113. SAURUS. SCOMBERESOX. 224. p. 129*. saurus, Sc<>mhreso\\ 224, p. 129. Saurus irachinus. 178. p. 113. ,. undosquamis. 176, p. 113. ,. varius. 174. p. 112. SAXATll IS. AtiUDEFDUE, 761. p. 283. PL. 51. saxaiilis, Glyphidodon. 761, p. 283. SCABER. PLATYCEPHALUS. 1069, p. 379. Scaeops grandisquama. 314. p. 159. .. orbicularis. 314. p. 159. Scales, adherent, p. 84. .. age determination b\, p. 501. ,. caducous, p. 84. circuli. p. 501. .. ctenoid, p. 84. ., cycloid, p. 84. deciduous, p. 84. „ growth of. p. 501. ,, 7ones of growth, p. 501. SCAPULARIS. HALICHOERES. PL. 55. 795, P- 290. HALIDESMUS, 1028. P- 366. PL. 82. scapulari.s. Platyglossus. 795, p. 290. Scarichihys auriius, 826. p. 296. ,. coeruleopunciaius, 825, p. 296. ,. vaigiensis. 826, p. 296. Scarus auriius. 826. p. 296. 540 COMPOSITE INDEX Starus ccipitaneus, 823, p. 296. celehUus, 822, p. 295. coeruleopuiictotu\, 825. p. 296, (lenriciihitu'i. 823. p, 296. eiineciccwlhuSy 823, p. 296. .. ^'lUUHus. 824, p, 296. ., mactdio.sus, 824, p. 296. ., naiale/tsis, 824. p. 296. ., oviceps, 821, p. 295. sorJidus, 822, p. 295. spinUlens, 827. p. 296. .. troschelii, 822. p. 295. vaiffiensis, 826. p. 296. varie^!arus\ 822. p. 295. .. viridescens, 827, p. 296. SCATOPHAGIDAE. p. 234. SCATOPHAGUS. p. 234. Scntophanus ar^us, 582. p. 234. SCATOPHAGUS TETRACANTHUS, 582. p. 234. PL. 29. SCELERATUS. G ASTROPH VSUS, H94. p. 418. PL. 94. scelerotus, La^ocephalus. 1194. p. 418. ,, Teirodon. 1194, p. 418 Scepfarias fra^iilh. 495a, p. 210. .scfutapi, Ophichihys. llOOa. p. 510. Ophisurus, 1100a. p. 510. SCHEDOPHILUS, pp. 302. 303. SCHEDOPHILUS MEDUSOPH AGUS. 847, p. 303*. SCHLEGEL], RHINOBATOS. 64. p. 64*. svhocpfi, DioJon. 1186. p. 416. SCHONLANDl, SIDERIA, I !31a, p. 510. PL. 103. schotaf, Diapramnxa, 692, p. 262. SCHOTAE. GATERIN. 692, p. 262. PL. 42. schotaf, Plectorhynchus. 692. p. 262. schoteii, Nolopo^on, 367. p. 172. whreineri, Dasybutis. 81, p. 70. .. TrviiOf!. 81, p. 70. SCHWENKl. PEMPHERIS. 641. p. 247. SCIAENA. pp. 225. 227. Sciaena belenyeri, 549. p. 226. SCIAENA CAPENSIS. 556. p. 227. PL. 26. Sciaena dorsalis, 551. p. 226. SCIAENA DUSSUMIERI. 555. p. 227. Sciaena fuscolineaia. 555. p. 227. hololepidota, 552, p. 226. SCIAENA MACROPTERA. 559. p. 228. Sciaena miles, 551, p. 226. .. parva, 550, p. 226. SCIAENA ROBINSONI. 557. p. 227. PL. 26. Sciaena sina, 550. p. 226. SCIAENA SINUATA. 558. p.;228. Sciaena soldado, 551. p. 226. „ striata, 558, p. 228. „ copleri, 550. p. 226. SCIAENIDAE. p. 225. Scientific Nomenclature, p. 16. SCOLIODON. pp. 40. 43. Scoliodon actus, 13. p. 43. SCOLIODON PALASORRAH. 13. p. 43. „ VAGATUS, 11. p. 43. WALBEEHMl. 12. p. 43*. SCOLOPACEA. NEMICHTHYS. 1107, p. 391*. SCOLOPAX. MACRORHAMPHOSl’S, 364. p. 172. SCOLOPSIDAE, p. 260. SCOLOPSIS, p. 260. Scolopsis affinis, 684. p. 260. SCOLOPSIS BIMACULATUS, 684,'p. 260. PL. 41. Scolopsis eriomma, 686. p. 261. SCOLOPSIS GHANAM. 685, p."260. PL 41. Scolopsis japonicus, 683, p. 260. .. kurite. 683, p. 260. laenialus, 684. p. 260. ., lorquatus. 683, p. 260. SCOLOPSIS VOSMERI. 683. p. 260. PL. 41. SCO.MBER, pp. 297, 300. Scomber capensis. 537, p. 221. colias. 839. p. 300. pi^as, 839, p. 300. SCOMBER JAPONICUS. 839, p. .300*. PL. 68. Scomber niicrolepidoius, 837. p. 299. rottleri, 534. p. 221. SCOMBERESOCIDAE. p. 129. SCOMBERESOCOIDEA. p. 128. SCOMBERESOX, p. 129. SCOMBERESOX SAURUS. 224, p. 129*. Scomheroidvs sandipetr'i, 545, p. 224. toL 544, p. 224. SCOMBEROMORIDAE, pp. 297, 300. SCOMBFROMORUS. p. .300. SCOMBEROMORUS COMMERSON. 840, p..301. PL. 64. Scomheromortis commersonii, 840, p. 301. .. tiuvobrunneum, 862. p. 310, interraptuni. 841, p. 301. SCOMBEROMORUS LEOPARDUS, 841. p. .301. PL. 64. Scomheromorus lineolatus. 841. p. 301. SCOMBEROMORUS MACULATUS, 842, \\ 301*. Sconibreso.x rondeletii, 224. p. 129. .. saiirus, 224, p. 129. SCOMBRI DAE, p. 297. SCOMBROIDEA. p. 296. SCOMBROPIDAE. p. 210. SCOMBROPS, p. 210. SC'OMBROPS DUHIUS. 496. p. 211*. ycoparius. l.elhrinus. 702, p. 264. SCOPELARCHIDAE. pp. Ill, 114. SCOPELARC'HUS. p. 114. SCOPELARCHUS ANALIS, 180, p. 114*. SCOPELOPSIS, pp. 117, 118. SCOPELOPSIS MULTIPUNCTATUS. 191. p. 118*. Scopelus amerhysiinopunctaius, 155. p. 105. .. aryenipus, 208, p. 124. SCORPAENA. pp. 368. 370. Scorpaena capensi\, 1044. p. 372. .. durbanenyis, 1040. p. 371. SCORPAENA HAPLODACT'i'LUS. 1038, p. 371. kOWlENSlS, 10.39. p. 371. PL. 83. MOSSAMBICA, 1037, p. 370*. PL. 83. NATALENSIS. 1040. p. 371. PI . 83. Sct*rpaeiia zanzibarensis, 1037. p. 370. SCORPAENIDAE. pp. 366. 368. SCORPAENODFS. pp. 369. 372. SCORPAENODES GUAMENSIS, U>44a. p. 372*. SCORPAENOPSIS, pp. 368. 371. SCORPAENOPSIS CIRRHOSA, 1043, p. 371. PL. 85. Scorpaenopsis durhanensis, 1043, p. 371. SCORPAENOPSIS (ilBBOSA. 1042. p. 371 . PI . 85. ROSEA. 1041, p. 371. PL. 85. SCORPIDAE. p. 249. Scorpis lithophUus, 646. p. 249, scriba, Pciracentropriytis. 430. p. 193. SCRIBA, SERRANUS. 430. p. 193. SCRIPTA. OSBECKLA. 1153. p. 406. PI. 89. scriptns'. Alularius. 1153. p. 406. Aluiera. 1153. p. 406. .. Monacanihuy, 1153, p. 406. scidlyi. BJennius. 952. p. 344. SCULPTUS. ABUDEFDUF. 766, p. 283. scuiptus, Glyphidodon, 766. p. 283. scutatus. Paracyttopsis. 274. p. 145. SCUTATUS. ZEN. 274. p. 145. SCYLIORHINIDAF. pp. 39. 52. SCYLIORHINUS. pp. 52. 53. SCYLIORHINUS CAPENSIS, 38. p. .54. PL. 2. Scyliorhinus leopardus, 35. p. 53. ., marleyi, 35. p. 53. .. polysiiy/mi. 42. p. 55. SCYLLIOGALEUS. pp. 40. 44. SCYLLIOGALEUS OUECKETTL 16. p. 44*. SCYLLIORHINICEPS, ECKLONIAICHTH YS, 1087. p. 384. PL. 87. Scyiliorhinus africanu', 37. p. 53, .. capensis, 38. p. 54. edwardsi, 39, p. 54. microps. 41, p. 54. natalensis, 40, p. 54. „ pantherinus. 36. p. 53. Scyiliorhinus punctatus, 42. p. 55. rciiani, 43. p. 55. saldanha. 41, p. 54. ., suffUins. 34, p. 52. Scymnorhinus hrevipinnis, 46, p. 56. Scymnus iichia, 46. p. 56. Scyris indiciis, 528, p. 219. Sea. Mineral salts in, p. 8. Sea temperature, p. 6. Sea. Zones oL the, p. 5, seolei, Amia, 486, p. 208. ., Apo^on, 486. p. 208, Sea-snakes, p. 25*. PL. 100. SFBAE, LUTlANLiS. 665, p. 255. PI. 97. SEBASTICMl HVS, pp. 369. 372. SEBASTICIirHYS CAPENSIS. 1045. p. 372, PL. 85. SEBASTOIDE^S. ACANl IMS! lUS, 431. p. 193. PI . 17. SEBASTOSFMUS. pp. 369. 371. SLBASTOSEMUS CAPENSIS, 1044, p. 372. SI-X'UTOR. p. 243. SEC'UTOR INSIDIATOK. 625, p. 243. PL. 35. „ RUC’ONILIS. 624, p. 243. Secsiang, p, 25*. PI . 100. schdi. MukU, 889. p. 323. SEHEll. VALAMUGH . 889. p. 323*. SELACHOPHIDIUM, pp. 360, 362. SEl ACHOPHIDIUM GUENTHERI, 1018, p. 362*. SELAR. p. 213. Sclar affinis, 510. p. 216. ,. brevi-., 502. p. 213. SEl AR CRUMENOPHTHAl MUS, .';03, p. 214*. KALI A. 502, p. 213. Seiar muiiritianus. 503. p. 214. .. tabulae, 504, p. 214. Selene fiihbiceps, 526. p. 219. SEMICINCTUS. LEIURANUS. I099;i. p. 509. PL. 103. u’lnii inctus. l.ethrinus, 703. p. 265. ypmicirculotus. l/oJacanthus, 584. p. 235. SEMICIRCUL ATUS. P(JM ACANTHUS. 584, p. 235. PL. 30. SFMIDISCUS. HOI OGYMNOSUS, 810, p, 292. PL, 5^. seniilasciatuy. Blentrius, 950. p. 343. setniophorus, Trachypterus, 264a. p. 142. srmispinosus. Trachurus. 501. p. 213. ypncvalensis, Bclone, 227, p. 130. Solea, 331. p. 163. SHNEGALENSIS. TYIOSLRUS, 227. p. 130. Senses. Other, p. 30. SERIOLA, pp. 213, 221. Seriola biruiiaia, 536. p. 221. SERIOLA BONARIENSIS. 538. p. 222. PI.. 26. Seriola intermedia. 536, p. 221. SERIOLA LAIANDL 537. p. 221*. Seriola lalandii, 537, p. 221. ,. niyrpfasciata, 536, p. 221. ruppellii, 536. p. 221. SERPENS. GEMPYLUS, 864. p. 311*. serpens, Ophichthvs. 1106. p. 391. SERPENS. OPHISURUS. 1106, p. .391. PL. 99. serpens. O.xysitmius. 1106. p. 391. SERRANIDAE. p 189. SFRRANUS. pp. 190. 192. Serranus aiboyuttatus. 449. p. 198. analis. 422. p. 191, anyuluris. 446. p. 197. aryus. 425. p. 192. aurantius. 422. p. 191. hrivhatni, 654. p. 252. SI-RRANUS CABRILl A. 429, p. 19.3. PL. 17. Serranus chubaudi, 437, p. 195. cvanosiiynwtoides. 423. p. 192. dispar. 451, p. 198, ffnvimaryinalus, 426, p. 192. hemisliclus, 424. p. 192. he.xuvonaius. 439. p. 196. ., janfhinopterus. 421, p. 191. kendalli, 425, p. 192. COMPOSITE INDEX 541 SERRANUS KNYSNAFNSIS. 427. p. Sermrius furntria. 420. p. 191. macuUitus, 423. p. 192. mahibarkus. 447. p. 197. marocainus. 430. p. 193. meleapris, 451. p. 198. microdoiu 451. p. 198. niiniiitus, 423. p. 192 multinotdius, 447. p. 197. mvriastvr. 425. p. 192 SERRANUS NOVFMC'INC'TUS. 428. p. 193. Serranus papiliotuiceus, 430. p. 193. polvslisifna, 449. p. 198. pundtiliifus. 426. p. 192. ret'uiildtus. 449. p. 198. roiidd. 420. p. 191, roseus, 422, p. 19 1. sdlmonohies. 447. p. 197. SERRANUS SC'RIRA, 430. p. 193. Serranus sonnerdfi. 421. p. 191. soindcr. 432. p. 194. .. . stelldds, 439. p. 196. ste/ldfus. 439, p. 196. teifdiri. 654, p. 252. .. tumildbri\, 449. p. |98. wandersii. 445. p. 197. ierratd. Fistularid. 362. p. 171. SE'RRIVOMFR. pp. 391. 392. SERRIVOMHR BF.ANIf. 1109. p. 392*. .^^rru.v. Holocenirus. 401. p. 183. Theraptdi, 401. p. 183. SFTARC'HFS, pp. 368. 369. Setarchcs fidiiensis. 1036. p. 370. fiuniheri. 1036. p. 370. SFTARC'HFS F(3NC'.1CFPS. 1036. p. 370*. Setarches nuirlevi. 1036. p. 370. .. rr/niverd. 1036. p. 370. sefder. Chaetodon. 592. p. 237. MottdCduthus. 1 140. p. 40.2. SETIFER. XIPHASIA. 964. p. 346. PI . 82. Seliform teeth, p. 83. SETIGERUS. LOPHIOMUS. 1224. p. 426*. ve/ieerwN. l.ophius. 1224. p. 426. \etirostri\. l'dtvrduli\, 122, p. 95, SETIROSTRIS. THRISSCX'LFS. 122. p. 95. Pf 5. setirostris, Thryssd. 122. p. 95. Sex. pp. 28. 36. SEXFASCIATUS. ABLI^FFOUF. 762, p. 283. C ARANX. 511. p. 216. PI . 25. \exfasciatu'i. Glyphidt>ddn. 762. p. 283. ., Siddrid\. 967. p. 348. SFXIINFATUS. C'lR A \1 MISTFS. 418, p. 190. PL. 16. SEXSPIMS. N(9TACANTHtS. 166, p. 109V SEXTARIUS. POLVDACTVLUS. 9(X). p. 327*. Sexual dimorphism, p. 28. Sharks, jaws. pp. 36. 37. Shark repellent, p. 37. Shark skin. p. 35. Sharks teeth, p. 36. SHFRBORM. HOW FI FA. 498. p. 212*. \herhi>rni. Rhfcdnirdrnma. 498. p. 212. Shore, danger of. p. 24. SIDEREA. p. 399. SIDERFA PICTA. 1131. p. 399. PI 103. SCHONL ANOI. I I3la. p. 510. PI . 103. '•ifhtddii. Pristipomoidfs. 653. p. 252. SIGAMD.AF. p. 328. SiGANOIDEI. p 328. SIGANLS. p. 328. Si«anus nebul>>\u\. 902. p. 328. SIGANLS ORAMIN. 901, p. 328* RIV L FATLS. 902. p. 328. PI . 67. STEFFATUS. 902a. p. 328. PF. 35. Sight, p. 30. SIGNATA. CYCFOTHONF, 146. p. 103. SIGNATLS. CiOBIUS. 922. p. 335. SIH.AMA. SILLAGO. 467. p. 203*. SILLAGINIDAE. p. 203. SILLAGO. p 203. Silla^o acutd. 467. p. 203. Silld^o aeoius, 468, p. 204. SIl.LACiO C IIONnROiHIS, 46'), p. 204*. •Sillcifio ftnirilis. 468, p. 204. SIl.LACiO MACULATA, 468, p. 204. SIHAMA, 467, p. 20.1*. SIMLNCUL.I.YIOAL, pp. IS,!. 187 SIMKNCIIKLYS, p, 187. simlnchllys I’ARA.srnc'u.s, lo'ii, p Sal, -a. 128, p. 161. n'/iii/.v, Camharus. 717, p. 276. SINA. JOHNIU.S, 5.M). p.'226. 'mi/, I'seuihisiiaemi. S.'iO. p. 226. .. Scidc/id, 550, p. 226. sindensis, CUphidodoti, 755. p. 281. SINDKNSIS, I’OMAC-FNTRUS, 711 p I’l . .11. ■ - . Sinistral, lladishes, p. 1,14. SINUATA, SC'IALNA, 558. p. 228. sinudtd, Vmbrind. 558. p. 228. sinus-persici, I'orpedo. 91. p. 75. Sirembo messieri, 1020. p. 363. Skin. Shark, p. 35. Sleep, p. 29. Slits, gill-, p. 35*. SFOANl. GHAUI lODUS. 145. p. 102. I*i 5, Snutris ausirdHs. 705, p. 265. Smell, p. 29. Smith, Andrew, p. 26. SMUHI. OTORHIOIUM. 1024. p. 364*. RAIA, 68. p. 66*. IM . 3. Mdithii. nenn’.x 673, p. 257. A/m.i,'//. 886, p. 322. i\drcohdlu\, 91. p. 75 SMlTHil. NFMIRII RUS. 673. p. 257, \niiihii, Synd^ris. 673. p. 257. Snakes, sea. p. 25*. PL. !()(). Snout, p. 35*. 84*. SOC IAL IS. XL:NC)I3L RMIC M T MYS. 126. p. 96*. SOIANORI. AC ANTHOC YlilUNF 843. p 301 PL. 64. SClI.nAOO. JOMNIUS. 551. p. 226*. s<)ldad<). Sciaena, 551. p. 226. SOFI.A. pp. 161. 163. Sidra dibovurtaia, 323. p. 162. SOFFA BFFE KE Rl. 328, p. 163. PI . 10. Sided capensis. 323. p. 162. SOI FA E Ul VOMARCilNATA. 329. p PI . 11. Sided rneldfutpierd. 323. p. 162. quddrioceildtd, 330. p. 163. verjeeu/tvo/s. 331, p. 163. .. sirni)nen\is. 328. p. 163. .. lurbynei, 328. p. 163. SOI L U3AF. pp. 154. 160. SOLI NOSrOMATIOAL.. p 173. SOI FNOSTOMUS. p. 173. SOl.FNOSTOMUS C YANOPII RUS. 370. p. |73. PL 12. '•'iniervilli. Htdiuanthus. 587. p. 235. SONNFRATI. C I PH AI OPHOl IS. 421. p. |9I PI . 16. \dnnerdti. Fphinephelus. 421. p. 191, .. Serranus. 421. p. 191, SORIlinUS. ABUni LDUF. 760. p. 282. I'l 51. C AFLYODON. 822. p 295 sardidus. (i/yphidudan, 760, p. 282, Smrus. 822. p. 295. Sound priKluctitm hy hshes, p, 31. South Africa. Ichthyology in. p. 26. South African region, p. 7. SPAOiC I US. CiASI ROPHYSUS. 1196. p. 418. PI . 93 spadkeus. lelrodiiry 1196. p. 418. Spallanzani, l.dninu. 28. p. 50. SPARIDAF. p. 265. SPARINAi:, pp. 265, 266, SPAROnON, pp. 266. 268. SPAROnON I3L’RBANFNSIS. 711. p. 268*. PL. 45. nentitiop. p. 502*. SP,AROII3ES. ABUI)EM>UF. 765. p. 283*. sparoides. (ilyphidodon. 765, p. 283. Spams anfilicus. 724, p. 272. ,, berda, 707, p. 267. .. bifiiscidtus, 706, p. 266. cristiceps, 720, p. 271. denraius. 717, p. 270. ,. durhanensis, 711, p. 268. Jildmento.sus. 716, p. 270. .. y'ibbiceps. 725, p. 272. .. fzldbiceps, 708, p. 267. ludubi, 729. p. 274. laniarius. 718, p. 270. huici’ps, 721, p. 272. lophus. 723, p. 272. nuHlayascdriensis, 707, p. 267. .. nasutus. 719. p. 271. naid/cnsis. 710, p. 268. puntazzo, 712, p. 269. rahinsdni, 707, p. 267. sarbd. 710. p. 268. .. sary'us, 713, p. 269. Spams spinifer, 715, p. 270. Spearing, for soles, p. 162. Species, pp. 16. 20. numher of. pp. 9. 32. SPFC IOSUS, CARANX, 506, p. 215. I’L. 25. spccidsus. (Jnaihdnodon. 506, p. 215. speculum. Priacanthus. 406. p. 185. Speed, of fishes, p. 28, SIM NCF, GOBIUS. 921. p. 335*. SI’HAFROiniS. pp. 416, 417. SPHALROiniS CUTANF:US. 1190, p. 417. PF. 95. Sphaemides marleyi. 1198, p. 418. SPHAI,R01I)f;S PI FUROSPIFUS, 1191. p. 417. PI . 94. Sphdsn'hranchus diUliceps. 1098, p. 389. breiimMiis, 1097, p. 389. luscus. 1(W7. p. 389. Spheroides dubius. 1190. p. 417. Sphoemides lunaris. 1195, p, 418. .. iiblitnuus, 1197, p, 418. SPHYRAI NA. p. 326. Sphymena at ulipinnis, 896, p. 326. idricana, 896, p. 326. SPHYRAFNA. ARCH NIINA. 127. p. 96*. JAPONICA. 896. p. 326*. JI FU). 895. p. 326. Sphyraena nattdensis. 896, p, 326, SPHVRAINA OBTUSAIA. 897. p. 326. SPHYRAI MDAF. pp, 316. 325. SPHYRNA. p. 46. Sphyrna malleus, 21. p, 46. SPHYRNA /YCiAI NA. 21. p 46* SPH> RNIDAF. pp. 39. 46. SPICILI R. SYNCiNATHUS. 352. p. 168, PF. 102. SPIFOTK HTHYS, p. 261. SPll OTIC HTHYS PIC TUS. 688, p. 261. PI 42. spilurus, l.ulianus. 657, p. 254. Hhiimbitidkhthys. 314. p. 159. SPINAC lOE R\1IS. RAIA. 66, p. 66. SPIN.AX. FTMOPIERFS. 51. p. 59*. Spinax lut ifer. 52. p. 59. spinax. Spinax. 51. p. 59, Spinax spinax. 51. p. 59. Spine, antrorse. pp. 81*. 82. SpincN. pp, 24. 81. 82. spiniifps. Rhmnboidiihthys. 314. p. 159. spinulens. C'allyadim, 827. p. 296. SPIMOENS. C RYPF(3T<)MLS. 827 p. 296. PI 62. spinidens. leptuscarus. 827. p. 296. Siurus. 827. p. 296, spinifer. A^riopus. 1059. p. 376. SPINIFER. ARGYROPS, 715, p. 270. PL. 45. spinifer. Chrysophrys, 715, p. 270. SPINIFER, CONCilOPODUS, 1059. p. 376. PL. 84. HISTIOPTERUS, 620, p. 242. PL. 35. spinifer. Fa^rus. 715. p. 270. ., Sparus. 715. p. 270. SPINIGFR. EPINEPHFLUS. 432. p. 194*. 542 COMPOSITE INDEX spi/ii^er, Sermnus, 432, p. 194. SEMNOSISSIMUS. AMliLYRHYNCHOTES, 12CX). p. 419*. spifTosissimus, Diixhn, 1183, p. 415. ,, Tefrodon. I2(MX p. 419. SPINOSUS. COTTUNCUL()l[9FS, 1056, p. 376*. spinosua. Coitunculus. 1056, p. 376. SPINOSUS. CYC'l.lCUTHYS. 1186, p. 416. spinosus\ Diodofi, 1186, p. 416. .. Echiuorhinus, 44. p. 56. SPINOSUS. POl.YIPNUS, 159, p. 107*. SPINOSUS. TR.‘\CHICHTHOnES. 293. p. 152*. Spiracle, pp. 35*, 36. Spiral valve, p, 36. SPl.F.NDENS. HERYX. 286. p. 150*. SPONDYLIOSOMA. pp. 274, 276. Spondydosoma aeneum, 737, p, 276. blochii^ 736. p. 276. SPONDYLIOSOMA EMARGINATUM, 739, p. 276. PL. 47. Spraielloides e/estucirius, 108, p. 89. .. deiicatuhis, 107, p. 89. .. moda^ascariensi.s. 110. p. 91. Spring ti. stigniapleron. l.cpidotriiila. 1078, p. 382. STOASODON. p. 68. STOASOnON NARINARl, 74. p. 68*. STOLEPHORIDAE, p. 88. STOLEPHORUS. pp. 88, 89. STOLEPHORUS DIT-ICATU LUS. 107. p. 89*. Stolephorus exlensus, 120. p. 94. bohdon. 120. p. 94. indicus, 118. p. 94. STOMIAS. p. 98. STOMIAS HOA. 131, p. 98*. STOMIATIDAE. p. 98. Story of Coelacanih. pp. 79. 80. SERIALIZA. pp. 317. 321. STRIALIZA CANALiCULATUS. 884. p. 321*. siriola. Sciaena, 558. p. 228. .. imhrimi. 558. p. 228. siriaiuni. Pontadasys, 680. p. 2.59. Prisiiponui. 680, p. 259. STRIATURA. C'ORYPHAENOinES. 237, p. 133*. striaius. Acanlhurus. 614, p. 240. STRIATUS. ANTENNARIUS. 1240. p. 431. PL. 98. BLFNNOPHIS. 981. p. 353*. striatiis. Caesio. 687, p. 261. ainus. 981, p. 353. Hepatus. 610. p. 240. flohivanihus. 583. p. 235. STRIATUS. OMOBRANCHUS. 955. p. 345. PI.. 74. POMACANTHUS. 583. p. 235. PL . 29. RHONCISCUS. 680. p. 259. PI . 40. ^triaius. Tenlhis. 610. p, 240. 614. p. 240. STRICTUS. SYMPHURUS, 333, p. 164. stridens. Pomali>sa. 323. p. 162. S'! NCHIROPUS. p. 180, S't NCHIROPUS MONACANTHUS, 388. p. 180 PL. 14. SVNC.NA'T HIDAE. p. 166. SYNCiNA'l HC31DES. pp. 167. 169. S't NGNAI H01DF:S BIACUI FATUS. 357, p. 169* SYNCiNATHUS. pp. 167. 168. S'ENCiNATHLlS ACLJS. 350. p. 168. PI. 12. Synynaihus bicoan tala. 356, p. 169. SYNCiNATHUS CYANOSPU US, 351, p. 16S PI . 102. E ASCIATL.'S. 354. p. 169. Sypyiialhus fluviaTiHs 359. p. 170. .. inossambicus. 351, p. 168. S\NCiNATHUS PELAGiCUS, 353. p. 168. PHLEGON, 349, p. 168. SPICIFER. 352. p. 168. PI . 102 TEMMINCkl. 355, p. 169. Synynaihus zanzibareiisi.s. 356. p. 169. S'i'NODONTIDAL. pp. 111. 112. S'! NODUS, p. 112. .Svnodus derntaiovenys. 174. p. 112. SVNOnUS INDICUS. 172. p. 112. PI 6. SV NODUS. 173. p. 112. \ ARlECiATL’S. 174. p. 112. IM . 6. Synodus yarius. 174, p. 112. S\non>ms. p. 18. I TABULAE, BRANCHIAI I PI S. 504. p. 214. lahuUie, SeUir. 504. p. 214. TACHYSURIDAE. p. 108. TACHYSURUS. p. 108. TACHYSURUS DLSSUMILRI, 164. p. 108, FELICEPS. 165, p. 109*. PL. 6 TAF.NIA. I'lIPl.OPHOS. 154. p. 105*. lacniala. Amui. 483, p. 208. TAENIATUS. APOGON, 483. p. 208*. laenialus. Aspiduntus. 961. p. 346. Pulvnemus. 898. p. 327. .. Scoliipsis, 684. p. 260. COMPOSITE INDEX 543 TAFNIOIOFS, pp. 329. 330. TAFNIOIDFS FSQl.'IVT.L. 904. p. 330. PI. 70 JACKSONI. 903. p. 330. PI 7o TA1-:N101.ABRUS. P. i74. tai:ni()i.abrus mari.i vi. 374. p. 174. pi , 13, taeniofnelopon, Pomacentrus. 756, p. 281. TAFMONOTUS. AMBLYAPTISTUS. 1033. p. 368. tuenionotus. ApiMi/.w 1033. p. 368. UH’niophorus. Amia. 487. p. 208. ,. Apoiion. 487. p. 208. Pomodasys, 682. p. 260. Pri.stipoma, 682. p. 260. TAFNIOPS. PTFRACKXJIJS. 798. p. 290. PL. 59. TAFNlOt’Rl.S. NOVACUl IC'HTHYS. 814, p. 293. PI.. 60. TAFMURA. p. 69. I'aenh/rd halyani. 78. p. 70, UH’niuru. Kuhlkh 412. p. 187. TAF;MURA IYMMA. 78. p. 70. PL. 4. Taeniiira Ivmnia, 78. p. 70. TAFNIURUS. [7ULFS. 412. p. 187*. (alii. Chactodon. 601, p. 238. tanncri. F.chiostoma. 135. p. 99. TAPFINOSOMA. ASPIDONTUS, 963. p. 346. PI., 21. (apeinosonni. Pod oleines. 963. p. 346. TARACTFS. pp. 308. 309. I'ararrcs d.spor. 860. p. 309. TARACTFS i ONCilPlNMS. 860. p. 309. Taraotes princeps. 860. p. 309. tarwhino. Rouyhleyia. 710, p. 268. Taste, p. 29. TAURUS. BLFNMOMIMUS. 982. p. 353. PL. 78. ('ARCHARIAS. 25. p. 48. PL. 1. lauriis. Clinus. 982. p. 353. Odontaspis. 25. p. 48. TAUVINA. FPlNFPllF.l.US. 447. p. 197. PI.. 19. Teeth, p. 83. Teeth. Conical, p. 83, obtuse and acute, p. 83. Crenuiate. p. 83. Cuspidate, p. 83. Entire, p. 83. Incisor, p. 83. Notched, p. 83. .Setiforrn. p. 83. Sharks, p. 36. Villiform. p. 83. icira. Plaiax. 577. p. 232. TFLFSCOPUS, EPIGONUS. 474. p. 206*. iclfairi. Sorranus. 754. p. 252. TFMMINCKI, AUL.ACC'XT.PH.AL US. 419, p. 190. Pi.. 16. SYNCiNATHUS, 355. p. 169. Tomnodon conidons. 54'7. p. 224. temperature. Body. p. 31. Temperature of the sea. p. 6. tentacle. Nasal, p. 81*. tentacle. Supraorbital, p. 81*. TFNTACULATUS. HAPLOSTOMl AS. 132. p. 98*. Pf.ATYCFPHALUS. 1066. p. 378*. TENUIS. BFNTHODESMUS. 868. p. 312*. leriiQlin. Oiiilithu';. 554. p. 227. lessethna. Gymnothorax. 1127a. p. 398. TESSFLLATA. LYCODONTIS. li:7a. p. 398*. (e^M'iludi. Muraenci, 1127a. p. 398. ' .. .\(>v(uul(i. 812. P. 293. TFTRACANTHUS. SCATOPH AGL.’S. 582. p. 234. Pi-. 29. Tedadraohmuni anuinu/d. 749. p. 280. tcdayonus. OMracion. 1177. p. 412. Teiraodon pataca. 1201. p. 419. TETRAODONTIDAF. pp. 414. 419. TFTRAODONTOinEA. p. 413. TETRAPTURUS. p. 315. TE'TRAPTURUS BREVIROSTRIS. 876. p. 315*. Teiraroye binoiala. 1032, p. 368. aymnodernia. 1031. p. 368. monaconthas. 1029. p. 367. TETRAROGIDAF. pp. 366. 367. loirazona. huistius. 811. p. 293. .\o\acula. 811. p. 293. Tetrodon aerostaticus. 1206, p. 420. ahoensis. 1198. p. 418. amhoinon.sis. 1211. p. 421. arficntous. 1194. p. 418. hicolor. 1194, p. 418. hitaeniatus. 1209. p. 421. caudofasciatus. 1209. p. 421. cutaneus. \ 190. p. 417. hispidus. 1207. p. 420. honckenii. 1198. p. 418. hypseloi>onion. 1199. p. 418. ininnicidaius. 1203. p. 420. - implutus. 1207, p. 420. inerpus. 1192. p. 417. la^iocophahis. 1193. p. 417. liuoatus. 1206. p. 420. lunaris. 1195. p, 418. nuikua. 1212. p. 422. nuiryaritatu^. 1210. p. 421. natalonslK. 1211. p. 421. niyropunctatus. 1204. p. 420. ahlonyas. 1197. p. 418. ocollatus. 1210. p. 421. .. pataca, 1201. p. 419. petorsi. 1210. p. 421. plourospilas. 1191. p. 417. scolerafus. 1194. p. 418. snadicou’;. 1196. p. 418. ^pinasi.s.siinus. 1200. p. 419. stellatus. 1 193. p. 417. stollatuw 1205. p. 420. .. iruncaia. 1212. p. 422. vir^zafa. 1203. p. 420. TFTRGSOMUS. p. 411. TF.TROSOMUS CONCATl:N ATUS. 1174. p.411*. PL. 92. (ilBBOSUS. 1175. p. 412*. Teuihis annularis. 611. p. 240. arson(ou\. 613. p. 240. airainentatua 609. p. 240. australis. 608. p. 240. harione. 613, p. 240. hipunctatus. 611. p. 240. .. dussumieri. 613. p. 240. fasciatus. 608. p. 240. (ulif'inasus. 611. p. 240. yafnn. 612. p. 240. hirudo. 608. p. 240. liuoatus. 610. p. 240. lineolatus. 609. p. 240. inatoidos. 611. p. 240. inolanurus. 611. p. 240. .. mummitor. 613. p. 240. niitricans. 612. p. 240. pontazona. 608. p. 240. sandvichensis. 608. p. 240. .. sfriatiis. 610. p. 240. '.iriatus. 614. p. 240. triostoaus. 608. p. 240. trouyhtani. 608. p. 240. .. vittafus. 610. p. 240. xanfhopterus. 611. p. 240. THAl.ASSOMA. pp. 285. 287. Thalassoma hicolor. 781. p. 288. THAL.ASSOMA COMMFRSONI. 781. p. 288. Thalassonui dorsale. 780. p. 287. THAL.ASSOMA FUSCUS. 782, p. 288. PL. 53. HARDWICK F, 780. p. 287. PL. 53. HEBRAICUM. 778. p. 287. PL. 53. LUNARE. 777. p. 287. PL. 53. PURPUREUM. 779. p. 287. PL. 53. Thalassoma u/nhrostifzma. 779. p. 287. THALLIURLS. pp. 285, 294. THALLIL'RL S CH LORURUS. 8 1 8. p. 294. PL. 61. TH A VINACONUS. pp. 401. 404. THAMNACONUS ARFNaCEUS. 1146. p 404*. THAMNACONUS MCTDESTOIDES. 1 147. p.404*. THAZARD, AUXIS. 828. p. 298. PI. 65. THERAPON. p. 183. Thorapon cinorous. 400, p. 183. cuviori. 402. p. 184. TH[:RAP(TN JARBUA. 401. p. 183*. Thorapon ohscurus. 400. p. 183. .. polytaenia. 402, p. 184. .. quadrilinoatus. 402, p. 184. sorvus. 401. p. 183. sepadidus. 400. p. 183. THERAPON THF.RAPS. 400. p. 183. Thorapon xanthurus. 402. p. 184. THFRAPONIDAF. p. 183. THFRAPS. THERAPON. 400 ,p. 183. THFUTHIS. PARACANTHURUS, 607. p. 239. PI.. 33. Thoracic pelvic tin. p. 82. THRISSOCLFS. pp. 93. 94. THRISSOCLFS MALABARK'US. 121. p. 95. PL. 5. SFTIROSTRIS. 122. p. 95. PI . 5. Thryssa setirosiris. 122, p. 95. .. vitrirostris. 121. p. 95. (hunnina. Thunnus. 830. p. 298 THUNNUS, pp. 297. 298. Thunnus alhacora. 835. p. 299. .. (hunnina. 830, p. 298. THUNNUS Tin'NNUS. 831, p. 298. PF. 66. (hurstoni. Mohula. 87. p. 72. THT NNUS. THUNNUS. 831. p. 298. Pi.. 66. THYRSITFS. pp. 309. 310. Tin RSlTFS ATUN, 863. p. 310*. THYRSITCTIDES. pp. 309. 311. TH^■RSlTOlnFS M.ARLIOT. 866, p. 311*. THYRSOIDF.A, pp. .395. 396. TH'LRSOliTFA MACRURA. 1123. p. 396*. Tidal impulses, p. 13. Tides, p. 13. Tides in estuaries, p. 14. Tides. "Neap”, p. 13. .. “Sprine”. p. 13. (iyrina, Cynuunnuraona. 1132. p. 399. tiizrinian. .Stoyostonu’. 30, p. 51. tiprinus. Galeocerdo. 14. p. 44. TIGRINUS. UR0PTFRT('.R:S. 1132. p. 399. PL. 99. TC'il. CH(3R1NFMUS. 544. p. 224*. tol. Sconth‘’roidos. 544. p. 22 L Ton'-iue. free and adnate. p. 83. TORPEDINIDAE. pp. 62. 73. TORPEDO, p. 74. TORPEDO M.ARMORATA. 91. p. 75. PI. 4. NOBILIAN.A. 92, p. 75*. Torpod<’ panihora. 91. p. 75. ,, sinu^'pordci. 91. p. 75. torquatus. Scolop\is. 683. p. 260. Xvrichlhvs. 820. p. 295. TORQUKiFNER. pp. 416. 418. TORQUTCiENFR OBLONGUS. 1197. p. 418. Pl.. 93. t86 PL. 52. trilineatus. Pomacenirus. 756. p, 281. TRILOBATUS, CHEILINUS. 816. p. 294. PL. 56 TRIMACULATUS. DASCYLLUS. 751. p. 280. PL. 50. HOLACANTHUS. 586. p. 235. PI. 30. TRIOSTEGUS. ACANTHURUS. 608. p MO PL. 33. triostegus, Hepatus, 608. p. 240. Teuihis. 608, p. 240. TRIPTERODON. p. 233. TRIPTERODON ORBIS. 578. p. 233* PL “>9 TRIPTEROPHYCIS. p. 137. TRIPTEROPHYCIS GILCHRISTI. 250. p. 137*. TRIPTERYGIONTIDAE. pp. 342. 359. Tripterygium caperisis, 1005. p. 359. TRIPUNCTATUS, POMACENTRUS, 756, p. 281*. TRISERIALIS. OPHICHTHUS, 1101, p. 390. PL. 99. tropicus. Poniacentrus. 756. p. 281. Tropidichthys amhoiitetisis, 1211, p. 421. ,, hiuu’nidius, 1209, p. 421. .. cuudofoscidtu.s. 1209, p. 421. ,. margaritatus. 1210. p. 421. „ natidensis. 1211, p. 421, occllaius. 1210. p. 421. .. pe torsi. 1210, p. 421. .. vidi’uti/d. 1208, p. 420. TROPIDINIUS. pp. 251. 252. TROPIDINIUS ZONATL3S. 654, ]\ 252. PL . .39, troschtdi. Mugil. 886. p. 322. troscheiii. Callyodon. 822. p. 295. Scdrus. 822. p. 295. trossidd. Sfethojulis. 804, p. 291. iroughtoui. ileputus. 608, p. 240, Ti’uiJiis. 608. p. 240. TRULL.A. pp. 164. 166. TRULLA CAPENSIS. .342. p, 166. PI. 11. I'ruUd marleyi. 343. p, 166. micropkthaimus. 342. p. 166, Iru/icdla. Masturus. 1212, p. 422. Kunzditki. 1212, p. 422 „ Tetrodon. 1212, p. 422. Truncate caudal, p. 82. Trygon schreiiieii. 81. p. 70. .. uormik. 79. p, 70. TR't'PAUCHEN. p. 338. TRYPAUCHFN MlCROCEPHAl US, 937. p. 3 38. PL. 69. TRYPAUCHENIOAE. np. .^29. 338. TUBFRCULATUS. OSTRACION. 1177, p. 412*. PL. 92. PI ATYCEPHALUS. 1068, p. 379. TUMRU.. SAURIDA. 177. p. 113. tumilahris. Fpinephelus. 449. p. 198. .. Serranus. 449. p. 198. turhyuei. Solea. 328. p. 16.L turrirus. l.actophrys. 1175. p. 412. .. Ostracion. 1175, p. 4|2 .. Rhinesomus. 1175, p. 412. TYLOSURIDAE. p. 129. TYLOSURUS, pp. 129. 130. Tylosurus choram. 229. p, 130. .. corouuindelkus. 230. p. 130. T'l'LOSURUS CROCODIl US. 229. p. 130. Tylosurus incisus. 228. p. 1 30. .. teiuroides. 228. p. 130. TYLOSURUS LEIURUS. 228. n. 130. PL. 7. MELANOTUS. 2.30. p. 130. SENEGALFNSIS. 227. p. 130. Type of species, p. 16. lypicus. Rhineodon. 29. p. 50. Rhinodon. 29. p. 50. TVPUS. PARASCORPIS. 407, p. 185*. lypus. Pristipomoides. 653. p. 252. TYPUS. RANZANIA. 1212. p. 422. PL. 95. RHlNCOnON. 29. p. 50*. typus. Rhineodon. 29. p. 50. .. Rhinodon. 29. p. 50. fyrnhitti. G/yphkindon. 761. p. 283. I UARNAK. DASYATIS. 79. p. 70. PL, 4, uarmtk. Dasvbdtis. 79, p. 70. .. Trygon. 79. p. 70. L'mhrina angustilineaia. 557, p. 227. „ cupensis. 356. p. 227. .. dussumieri, 555. p. 227. .. fuscolineata. 555, p. 227. .. macroptera. 559, p. 228. .. robinsoni. 557. p, 227, sinuata. 558. p. 228. striata. 558. p. 228. umhrostigma. Thoktssomu. 779. p. 287. UMGAZI. I.APUTA. 1138. p. 402*. UMHLANGAE. PAL.INURICHI H YS. 849b, p. 304*. Underwater explosions, p. 32. UNIXXSQUAMIS. SAURIDA. 1 76. p. 1 13. undosquumis. Sourus. 176, p. 113. UNDUl ATUS. BAl ISTAPUS. 1171. P- PL. 91. unduldtus. iidlistcs. 1171. p. 410. UNDUl. ATUS. CtlF-ll INUS. HI 7a. p. 294. unduldtus. Gyni/iothorax, ! 129. p. 398. UNDULATUS. LYCODON US. 1 I 29. P- PI. 100. unduldtus. Muraend. 1129, p. 398. undulosus. Dentcx. 742, p. 278. UNDUl.OSUS, POLYSTEGANUS. 742. p. 278. PL. 49. unkolor. Agri<>pus. 1060. p. 377. UNICOLOR. MAI MARI. FNNIUS. 973. P- 349. PI . 75. OPHICH mUS. 1 102, p. 390*. unicolor. Ophichthxs. 1102. p. 390. S(ddrids. 97.3. p. 349 UNICORNIS. MF:1 AMPHAFS, 281. p. 148. unicornis. Monoceros. 616, p. 241 .. Xdscus. 616. p. 241 UNICORNIS. NASO. 616. p. 241. PL.. 34. unimuculdlus. .Aniphiprion. 747. p. 279. UNIMACUI AIUS, C IlAl TOnON. 594. p. 237. PL. 32. iinimoculdtus. l.utionus. 661. p. 254, u/iinotoro, Amin. 494. p. 209. idiinoidru\. Api>gon. 494. p. 209. L'NINOIATUS, APOGONK'H 1 H'lOIDFS. 494, p. 209. PI . 23. uninoidtus. Aptigonichth} '.s 494. p. 209. UPENFUS. p. 22H, UPENEUS RENSASI. 562. p. 229. PI . 27. L'peneus dispiiurus. 564. p. 229. idpidtalen\i'‘, 564. p. 229, .. queketii. 572. p. 231, .. ruwellii. 567. p. 230. UPhNF.US SUl FMILRFUS. .'6.1. p. 229. I’l.. 2X. TRACiUl .A, .'60, p. 22«. I’l , 27. VITI..\TUS, ?6I, p. 228. I’l.. 27, Upogebia. p. II. Upper lip. p. 35. Upper notch. Caudal tin. p. 35. upsicephdlus. l.ophius. 1224. p. 426. URANOSC OPinAE. r 176. liRANOSC'OPUS. p. 176. URANOSCOPUS ARC HIONEMA. 378. p. 176*. L'mnoscopu'^ haplostoma. 378. p. 176. UROCONGFR. pp. .392. 39.3. UROCONGFR I.EPTURUS. 1115. p. .394*. VICINUS. 1114, p. .393. L ROPTE RYGIUS. pp. .395. .399. UROPTER't CilUS CONCOLOR. 11.3 3. p. 399. PL. 99. MARMORATUS. 11.34. p. 399. PI. 1(H). TICiRINUS. 1132. p. .399. P[.. 99. UROTAENIA. AMRASSIS. 636. p. 246 \ VAGABUNDUS. CiU\FTO[90N. 599, p. 2.3S. PL. 31. vagaiu\. Carcharinu\. II. p. 43. VAGATUS. SCOLIODON, II. p. 4.3. vdgu\. Chrysophrys. 707. p. 267. VAIGIENSIS. ELLOCHELON, 883. p. 320*. xaigiensis, Glyphidodon. 761. p. 283. VAKilENSlS, LEPTOSCARUS. 826, p. 296. PL. 62 LUTIANUS. 669, p. 256. PI.. 38. xaigiensis. Mugil. 883, p. 320 Scurkhthys. 826, n. 296. Scorns. 826. p. 296. COMPOSITE INDEX 545 VALAMUGIL. pp. 317. 323. VALAMUGIL BUCHANANl, H88. p. 323. PL. 68. SEHELL 889, p. 323*. yalde-rostraius, Crossorhonihux, 313, p. 159. VAL-OE-t^OSTRATUS, ENG YPROSOPON. 313. p. 159*. VALENTINE AULOSTOMUS, 360, p. 170*. CANTHIG ASTER. 1208. p. 420. PL. 94. yaleniitii, Psii<>iroti/s\ 1208, p. 420. TropUiichihys. 1208. p. 420. Valve, spiral, p. 36. VANDERHORSTI. APODOC’REEDIA. 375. p. 175*. uit}icok‘ftxis, Duh’s, 413, p. 187. Po/fuice/itrus. 756, p. 281. VARIABILIS. OAS.SON, 960. p. 346. PL. 82. niriahilis, Dentcx. 740. p. 277. .. fk’iroscirU's, 960. p. 346. Aphorislia, 332, p. 164. varieytUux. Callymion, 822. p. 295. VARIEC.ATUS, LETHRINUS. 703, p. 265. Scarus, 822. p. 295. VARIEGATUS, SYMPHLfRUS. 332. p. J64*. SYNODUS. 114. p. 112. PI.. 6. VARIOLA, pp. 190. 192. LijrK»/(i fio^imtiryhidlus, 426, p. 192. VARIOl.A LOUTI. 426. (>. 192. PL.. 17. yuriohi puiu'luhitus, 426, p. 192. yarhiosa svnapturichlhyx. 323. p. 162. VARIUS. GOMPHOSUS. 784. p. 288. PI . 54. ivirN/v. Siwrus, 174, p. 112. .. Sv/hhIus. 174. p. 112. rehhtuidus. F>htawihus. 404. p. 184. VELIFERA, PTERACl.lS. 870. p. 313. PI. 67. VENEEICA. p. 395. VENEEICA PROBOSCIOEA, 1118, p. 395. veiiosus. Aluftirius, 1153, p. 406. .. Aluieru, 1153. p. 406. Mt>fuu(i/nhi/.\\ 1153, p, 406. Vent. p. 81. Ventral fin. p. 82. ve'Untlis, Cyiius. 268, p. 144. VENTRALIS. MELANOCiLOEA. 188h, p. 117. \ENTRIEOSSA. pp. 131, 135. VENTRIEOSSA DIVERCJENS. 245. p. 5 35. venustris, Ciinux, 990, p. 355. VENUSTRIS. OPHTHALMOl.OPHUS. 990. p. 355*. \ERMIEORMIS. LYCODONUS, 1027. p. 365. VERRUCOSA. SYNANCEJA. 1052. p. 374. PL. 84. i-errucosu\, A^riopus. 1060. p. 377, VERRUCOSUS, ALLOCYTTUS. 277. p. 146*. verrucosus, Cyit{tso/mi, 277. p, 146. Vertical fins. p. 82. esperciiii). Piata.x, 577, p, 232. VETULA, B.ALISTES. 1157. p, 407. PL. 89. \ICINUS, UROCONGLR. 1114. p. 393. riJua. Pulisies', 1158. p. 408. VIDUA. MELICHTHYS. 1158. p. 408. PL. 88. Vi! Villiform teeth, p. 83. VI VILLOSA. EISTULARIA. 362. p. 171. N VINCINGUERRLA. pp. 105. 106. VINCINGUERRiA LUCETIA. 157, p. 106. SAN/.OL 156. p, 106*. VIRESCENS. APRION. 652. p. 251*. virescens, Chaet(HJi>n. 600, p. 2.18. n/ virguiu, TecoJim. 1203. p. 420. viriJescens. Balistes, 1160. p. 408. VIRIDFSCENS. BALISTOIDES. 1160, p. 408. PL. 89. viridescens, Calivodon, 827. p. 296. ,. l.eploscorus, 827, p. 296, Scarus. 827. p. 296. vhrirostris, EnyrauHs', 121. p. 95. .. 7'hryssa, 121. p. 95. VITTATA, HARENGULA, 112. p. 91*. vitiutus, Hepatus, 610, p. 240. Teuthis, 610. p, 240. VITTATUS, UPENEUS, 561, p. 228. PL, 27. Viviparous, p. 28. Pseuilosciaeiia, 550, p. 226. .. Sciaetici, 550, p. 226. VOLITANS. EXOCOETUS, 210, p. 125*. *' PTEROIS, 1047, p. 373*. Frontispiece Vomer, p. 83*. VOMER, pp, 213. 219. yorner dorsalis, 526. p. 219. VOMER GIBBICEPS, 526, p. 219*. von Botide, C.. p, 26. yonboudei. Gobius, 933, p. 337, VOSMERI. SCOIT)PSIS, 683, p. 260. PL. 41. vui}>ari.s. Conner, I 1 1 (), p. 392. • ■ SiiMilus. 54, p. 60. ^ulpeculit niari/rti, 22, p. 47. VUL.I'HS, Al.HULA, W, p. 85*. ytilpt’s. Alopecias, 22, p. 47. • ■ .Alopias, 22. p. 47. VUl.l’INLiS. AI.OPIA.S, 22, p. 47*. W miieiemis, iMtiamis. 669, p. 256. Mugil. «8,1, p, ,120. Kokamiurac, Yozia. .1.56, p, 169. ^•ulheehnii, Carcharinus, 12. p. 4.1. WAl.Hr;t'HMI, SCOl.lOIION. 12, p. 4.1>. namlcrsii. I'pinepheliis, 44,5, p. 197. Scrrtutus, 445, p. 197. "armiasii. Lainpanyetus. 205, p. 12.1. mrreni, Arnia, All, p. 207. WARRI'NI. Al’OCiON, 477, p. 207. I’l.. 22. I’l.lOTRKM A, 57, p. 62, PL. .1, Kcheri, Owslonki. 464, p. 202. WLilFRI. PARASPFIFNANTHIAS, 464, p. 202. Pt.. 21. pl;rists:i7K)n, 1075, p. ,i8i*. Wfdge-shapccl caudal, p. 82. WHlTlil.LCill, PSHNLS, 851, p. .106*. WIll.lAM, BATHYtiOHIUS, 911, p. ill, P| . 71. woodi, Hh‘nniu\, 955, p. 345. WOODL PETRAITES, 984. p. 353. PL. 77. wondi. Perrusiirie.s. 955. p. 345. Wounds from Spines. Treatment of, p. 24. X XANTlIlCUrHYS. pp. 407. 409. XANTMICUTUYS RINCiENS. 1165, p. 409. PI 90. XANTHOC'EPHALUS. C MAETODON. 605, p. 239. PL. 32. xp\yu\. Curanx. 524, p. 218. xatiihosonjo, Dawyllus, 753, p. 280. Helidstes. 753. p, 280. XANTUURUS. ABUnEEL^UE. 763. p. 281. PL. 51. xii'tfhurus. 4ntphiprii>n. 748, p. 280. .. Chaefodun. 603. p. 238. XANTUURUS. CHROMIS. 746, p. 279. xunthurus. GlvphidERMlCHTHYS. pp. 95, 96. XENODI RMICHTHYS SOCIAEIS, 126. p. 96*. XefU)Mramma carinalunt, 862, p. 310. XENOLI PI[>KTn HYS, p, 147. XENOLEPIDICiriHYS AMEKICANUS. 279.i, p. 147. DALGLEISHI. 279, p. 147*. XENOPOCLiNlNAE. pp. 350. 351. XENOPOCUNUS, pp. 351, 358. XENOPOCLINUS KOCHI. UMM. p. 358*. XENOPTERI, p. 384. xenosoma, Notnpo^on,. 367, p. 172. XI PH ASIA, pp, 343. 346. XIPKASIA SETIFER. 964. p. 346. PL. 82. XIPHIAS. p. 314. XIPHIAS GLADIUS, 873, p. 314. PL. 67 XIPHIIDAE. pp. 297, 314. Xiphiurus capensis, 1023, p. 364. Xvrichthys mUrolepidotus, 820, p. 295, puvo, 811, p. 293. puvoitinu.s, 811, p. 293. lorquatus, 820, p. 295. Xy.staema acinuces. 631, p. 244, ,, edentulus, 628, p. 244, .Hlamentosus, 628, p. 244. iineoUitus, 629, p. 244. .. lonfiiro.stris, 629, p. 244. .. omcrucanthus, 628, p, 244. .. ohlonyus, 633, p. 245. oyena, 629, p. 244. pum tula, 628, p, 244. ,, rappi. 632, p. 245. Y yapif/i, I.utiauus, 661. p. 254, YAREl.LA. pp. 102, 104. Yarrelia africaua, 3 52, p. 104. ,. hlcuklordi, 152, p. 104. YARRELLA C'OR Y'l HAF-OLA. 152. p. 104*. YQ/IA, pp. 167. 169. YOZIA BICOARCTATA, 356, p. 169*. )'nzi(i svakariourae, 356. p, 169. Z zwribeu'nsis, Carcharinus, 9, p, 42. ZANCLIDAE, p. 241. ZANCLUS, p. 241. ZANCLUS CANESCENS. 619, p. 241 CORNUTUS, 618, p. 241. PL. 34. zanzibarensis, Scorpaena, 1037. p. 370. .. Syn^nathus, 356, p. 169. Z. 5(Vi*. Cavalla. 506*. Cavally. 507, 508*. 5ll*, 524*. Cavallyjack, 507. C'himaera, 93. 94*. C'hinesefish. 263*. Chorchor. 728*. Chub. 638*. 639*. Chuco. 80*. CcKk grunter. 678*. Cod. pp. I3I. 1 36. C\>elacanth. 98*. Cotrerfishes. p. 4II. Concertina fish. 576*. Conger. lllO*. Conger eel. 1 1 lO*. .. pike, 1 1 1 7*. conger. Silver, Ml 7*. Congro. niO*. Copper bream. 737*. 738*. Coralfish. 759*, 760*, 76I*. Corneitish. p. I71. Cornuda. 21*. Corvina, 550. 55 1*. Cowfish. iI73*. II78*. 1I79*. I ISO*. Cow-shark. 2*. 3. Crampfish, 9|*. Croaker. 402*. C'rocodilefish, I0‘'4*. Culevra. 350*. Cuskeels. p. 364. I) Dageraad, 720*. Daggerhead, 720*. 72 1*. Damba. 644*. 645*. Damkokker. 738*. Dane, 717*. Das, 713*, 738*. Dassie, 7 1 3*. Dealfish. 264*. 265. 546 INDEX TO COMMON NAMES 547 Death shark, 26*. Demoiselles, pp. 279,. 281, Devilfish. 87*. 88*, 11()47-*, 1052*. Devilray. 87*. 88*. Diamond mullet, 881*. .. ray. 87*. skate. 85, S6*. Dikbekkie, 718*. Dikkop, 927*. Dikoog. 729*. Dogfish, 35*. 37*. 39*. 40*. 53. 54*. dogfish. Piked, 53. .. Spiny, 53. Dog shark. 1|. Dolphin, 872*. Doodskop. 95*. Doppie, 745*. Dorab. 104*. Dourado macho, 872*. Draganets, p. 1 79. Drilvts, 89*, 90*. 91*. 92*. Duckbill. 77*. Duckbill ray. 74*. Duiuelvis. 87*. 88*. K Eagleray, 75*. 88*. Eel. 1094*. «l, Barbel. 163*. Conger. I I lO*. .. Moray. I 127*. Snipe. I 107*. 1 lOS. .. Thread. 1 ] 09*. Eelpouts, p. 365. Electric ray, 89*. 90*. 91*. 92*. skate 89*. 91*. 92*. Elephant fish. 95*. Elf. J47*. Elfl. 547*. Englishman. 724*. Escolar. 861*. h Fanfish. 870*. Fantail, 78*. Faqucita. 6*. Fatfish. 738*. Fiddlefish. 61*. 62. 63*. Fiddicshark. 63*. Fiicfish. 1140*. 1U9*, Fircworkshsh. 1046. 1047*. I(U« Fishing frog. 1234*. 1235*. 1236*. I2n*. !21H*. 1239*. 1240*. 1241*. 1242*. Fivc-tingcr, 7()8*, Flagfish. 4 12*. Flagiail. 41 2* - Flasher. 414*. Flatfishes* p. 154. Flathead mullet. 877*. Flaiheads, p. 377. Flat herring. 1 09*. Flatty. 709*. Flounders, pp. 154. 156. Flutemouth. .361*. 362. Flying fish, 210*. gurnard. 1076*. Fox-shark, 22*. Frans Madame. 729*. Freshvsater springer. 890*. Frigate mackerel. 828*. Frogfish. 1215*. 1216*. 1217*. 1218*. ITW. 1220* 1221 *. Frost-fish. 867*. <; Caljisen, 644*. galjoen. Banded. 645*. Bastard. 461*. 645*. .. Beaked. 461*. „ Pan. 646*. Gallocristo, 270*. Galludo, 53. Garfish, 224*. 228*, 229, 230. Cjarrick, 539*. Garrupa, 421*, 422*, 423*, 424. 425*, 429*. 435*. 439*, 440*. 443*. 444*. 445, 447*, 449*, 450*. 451*. 452*. (jcelbek, 554*. (jeclsierl, 537*. Cjcrman-fish. 500*. CJermon. 836*. Ghost shark, 93, 94*. Girtie. 270*. CJitarvis, 63*. Cii/./.ard-shad. 117*. Cilass-nose, 121*, 122*. Cjlassy, 634, 635*. 636, 637. Cilobefishes. p. 413. Goalfish, 560*. 561*. 562*, 563*. 564*. 565. 566*. 567*. 568. 569*. 570. 572*, 573*. (ioby, 910*. 919*. 927*, 934*. goby, Tank, 919*. Cjoggle-eye, 403. 406*. Cio-home-fish, 708*. Cjolden Roman, 461*. Cioldlish. 460*. (»olok kassut. 623*. (iolpim, 187*. (irey gruntcr, 682*. ,. nurse shark. 25*. shark, 5*. Cireyskin, 692*. (irootogie. 729*. Ciruntcr. 677*. grunter. Hull. 678*. Cock. 678*. Grey, 682*. Pignosc. 726*. Purple. 679*. Red. 728*. Rock. 675*. .. Silver, 676*. .. Spotted. 679*. .. Stripe. 680*. (juitartish. 63*. Gummy shark. 17* 18*. Gurnard. 1080. 1081. 1082. 1083*. 1084* gurnard. Flying. 1076*. M Haarder. 877*. 882*. 884*. 887*. 890*. Haddock, p. 131. Hake. p. 131. Halfbeak. 2 I 7*. 219, 220*. Hammerhead shark, 21*. Hammerkophaai, 21* Hangberger. 736*. Halchethshes. p. 106. Herring. 106*. 109*. 112*. 121*. 122*. herring. Flat. 109*. Spirited. III. Highw-ater. 644* Hopper. 967*. 968*. 970*. 971*. 972*. 973*. 974*. Horsefish. 1059*. 1060*. Horse mackerel, 501*. Hoitcntirt. 736*. 737*. 738*. Hound. 17*. 18*. 19*. 20. I Impogis. 74*. Isibuhuiungvsan. 761*. Itoshihi tuna. 834*. .. tunny. 834*. Izak. 43*. .1 Jacopever, 729*. 1034*, 1044*. 1045*. Jan Bruin, 730*. 738*. Jan Bruin. Blouoog, 730*. Janiquin. 10*. Japanese tuna, 834*. „ tunny, 834*. Jaqueta, 20. Jenoar, 659*, 664*, 665*. Jewfish, 552*. John Brosvn, 730*, 738*. John Brown, Blue-eye, 730*. John Dory, 269, 270*, 271*, 578*. John Marrigle, 100*. Josef, 95*. Josup, 95*. Judeu, 828*. Jumping ray, 74*. K Kaakap, 652*. Kaapenaar, 745*. Kabeijou, 552*. Kalankan, 299*. Kalkvis, 867*. Kapas-kapas, 628*. Kapitein, 980*. Karanteen, 732*. karanieen. Striped, 731*. Karp, 745*. Karpenter, 745*. Kalonkel, 833*. 840*. Keppierog, 74*. Kingfish, 262*, 506-525*. Kingkiip, 431*, 437*. 1023*. King-of-the-herrings, 263*, 264*. Kite-fish. 580*. 581*. Klipfish, 977*. 978*. 979*, 983*, 986*, 987*. ^ 9W-. 99I-. 992*. 993*. 995*, 996*, 997*. * Klip-suiger, I086-. ,,a«. Klipvis. 977’, 978*. 979’. 983*. 986*. 987*. 990-, 991-, 992-, 993-, 995*, 996-, 997*. * Knoorhaan. 679*. 1082. 1083*. Kob, 552*. Kolstert, 713*. Kombedo, 74*. Koningkiip. 431*. 437*. 1023*. Korbina. 549*. Kuda. 840*. Kuru, 899. Kuweh, 541*. Kwanya, 547*. Kwatuma, 1127*. 1128. 1 129*. Lady fish. 99*. lOl*. 540*. Lajang. 530. Lancet fish. 187*. 608*. Lantern fish. 454*. shark. 51*. Lazyshark. 36*. 37*. 43* lazyshark. Spotted. Leack. 100*. Leatheriacket. 115?* Leerfish. 539*. Lcervis. 539*. Leopard shark, 30*. 43*. Lesser blue shark, 13. Levovangan. 650*. Lintvis. 527*. Little tuna. 830*. tunny. 830*. Liver-oil shark. 15*. Lizard fish, 172*. Longfin tuna. 836*. tunny. 836*. Longtoolh salmon. 553*. LookUown, 320*. Lootsman. 535*, 947*. Luihaai, 37*. M Maasbanker. 501*. Mackerel, 839*. mackerel, Frigate. 828*. 548 INDEX TO COMMON NAMES Mackerel shark. 21*. mackerel. Snake. 864*. Spanish, S40*. 842*. Mackerel tuna, Magistraat. 725*. Maiger. 552*. Mako shark, 28*. Makreci. 839*. Makulu. 500*. Mallet shark, 21*. Man-eater. 26*. Mama, 88*. Marbleray. 79*. Marlin. 875*. Mashipundu, 9*. Matabelo. 109*. Mata-hari, 698*. 702*. Mbande. 709*. 710*. Mbentsu, 714*. Mehlwentsimini, 729*. Melkvis. 407*. Merma, 8,30*. Mhlungumenye, 711*. Miggel. 725*. Milkfish. 105*. 407*. Miss Lucy, 725*. Mlakwe. 100*. Mondi. 100*. Monk. 1225*. Monkey fish. 95*. Monkey-mouth, .30*. Monk fish. 55*. Mooi nooitjie, 731*. Moonfish. 262*. 540*. 542*, 580*. 581*. Moony, 580*. 581*. Moorish idol. 618*, 619. Moray eel, 1127*. Mud bream. 707*. Mudhopper. 936*. Mullet. 877*. 878*. 879*, 880*. 883*, 884*. 885*. 886*, 889*. 890*. mullet. Basket. 881*. Bastard. 101*, 898*. 899. 900*. B'uj tail. 888*. Diamond. 881*. Flathead. 877*. Mussel cracker. 711*, 719*. Musselcrackers, special note, p. 502*. Mussel crusher. 71 1*. 719*. Mylah. 667*. N Naaldvis. 218*. 222*. 225*. Natal Roman. 717*. Navia. 1 1 1 1*. Needlefish. 217*. 218*. 219. 220*. 222*. 225*. Ngcangolo. 726*. Niggerfish. 397*. Nilow. 7*. nKonKolo. 679*. n'Kulu-n'Kulu. 664*. Nkunga, 163*. Ntimla. 713*. Ntombielitye. 645*. Numbfish. 89*, 91*. Nyizala, 738*. Nyolo, 884*. O Garfish. 263*. Obispo, 77*. Oilfish. 861*. Oldwife, 1157*. Old Woman, 583*. Opah, 262*. Oskop, 1178*, 1179*. Oxray, 88*. P Palang. 1094*. Pampano. 542*. Pampelmoes. 845*. Pamphlet. 542*. Panga. 534*, 718*. Pan galjoen. 646*. Pappegaaivis, 461*. Parang. 104*. Parrotfish, 461*. 462*. 463*, 702*, 821*. 822. 823. 824*. 825*. 826*. 827*, Passir-passir. 683*. Patchy. 1170*. Pearlfishes, p. 359. Pegador, 947*. Pegador. Peixe, 949*. Peixe Batata. 692*. ,. cravo. 262*. ,. Pegador. 949*. Pen haai. 53, 54*. Penvis, 1181*. 1182*, 1183, 1184*. Peperek, 624. 626*. 627*. Perch, 413*. Pescadinha, 467*, 469*. Pest of St. Lucia. 401*. Pettak. 625*. Peuloog. 729*. Picarel, 705*. Picnic bream. 707*. Picuda, p. 325. Pignose grunter. 726*. pike. Conger. 1117*. Piked dogfish. 53. 54*. Pilchard. 115*. Pilotfish. 535*. Pinky. 675*. 728*. Pipefish. 349. 350*. 351*. 352*. 353, 354. 355. 356*. 357*. 358*. 359*. Pisang. 687*. Plaatvis, 1213*. Platanner, 55*. Ploughfish, 526*. Poenskop, 719*. Pofadderhaai. 39*. Pompa, 1123. Porbeagle. 11*. Porcupine fish, 1181*. 1182*. 1183. 1184*. 1185. Porky. 1140*. Port Jackson shark. 4*. Prickle shark. 44*. Prodigal son, 543*. 548*. Pufaro. 453*. Puffadder shark. 39*. Pufferfishes. p. 176. Puntazzo. 712*. Purple grunter. 679*. Puti, 118*. 119*. Putje-kanipa, 1117*. Pylstert. 74*. 75*. 77*. 79*. 80*. 82. 85, 86*. 0 Queen fish. 544*. 545. 546. R Rabbitfish. 901*. 902*. 902a*. Racehorse, 1059*. 1060*. Ragged-tooth shark. 25*. Rainbow-fish, 777*. 779*. 782*. 984*. 998*. 999*. 1001*. Rainbow-runner, 543*. Ratfish. 96*, 102*. Rat tail, 86*. 231, 232*, 233. 234*. 235. 236*. 237*. 238, 240. 241*, 242, 243. 244, 245. 246*. 247*. 248*, 249. Rattlefishes, p. 427. Ray, 65*, 67*, 68*, 69*, 71*. ray. Blue. 82. But), 75*. ray. Butterfly. 85. .. Devil. 87*. 88*. „ Diamond. 87*. .. Duckbill. 74*. „ Eagle, 75*. „ Electric. 89*. 90*, 91*. 92*. Jumping. 74*. .. Marble. 79*. .. Ribbontail. 78*. .. Spotted. 74*. Sting. 75*. .. Whip. 75*. RAYS, 58 92**. Razorfishes, 369*’ Redbait, p. 11. Red chor-chor, 728*. Redfang, 1155*. Redfin. 715*. Redfish. 720*. Red grunter, 728*. mullet, 560*, 561*. 562*, 563*. 564*. 565. 566*. 567*. 568. 569*, 570*. rockcod, 421*. roman, 721*. salmon, 664*. .sea-haarder. 574*. . snapper. 662*, 664*. 665*. sieonbras, 741*. siumpnose, 725*. 740*. Reds. 718*. Remora. 947*. 948. Rhinofish, 1154*. Ribbonfish, 867*. 869*. Ribbontail ray, 78*. Rietbiil. 552*. River bream. 707*. .. gurnard. 1063*. perch, 707*. roman. 664*. shark. 9*. steenbras. 726*. Rockcod. 420*. 422*. 425*, 4,34*. 435*. 436*. 437*. 438*. 439*. 440*. 441. 442*. 443*. 444, 445, 447* 448*. 449*. 450*. 451*. rockcod. Black. 425*. ., E3lue-spot. 423*. Rock grunter. 675*. Rockhind. 448*. Rockhopper. 965*. Rock salmon. 575*. 664*. RcKkskipper. 970* 975*. RtKk-sucker. 1086*. Rocky, 983*. 984*. 986*, 992*, 999*, 1001*. Rog. 65*. 67*. 68*. 69*, 71*. Roman, 721*. Romero, 535*. Roncador. 677*. 679*. Rooi chor-chor, 728*. steenbras. 741*. stompneus. 725*. 740*. Rooitjie. 745*. Rubalo. 740*. Rubio. 1081. Rudderfish. 638*. 639*. Runner, 543*. 548*. S Saagbek. 57*. Sailfish. 874*. Salmon. 552*. 554*. Salmon bass. 552*. salmon. Beaked. 102*. Cape, 100*. 554*. Salmon de alto, 283*. salmon, Longlooth. 553*. Red. 664*. Rock, 575*. 664*. Small. 550. Snapper. 553*. Salmonet. 560*. 561*. 562*. 563*, 564*, 565, 566* 567*. 568. 569* 570*. 572*. 573*. index to common names 549 Sancord, 1034*. Sand blouer. 7H*. Sandcord, 102*. Sanded, 373*. Sandela, 707*. Sandfish, 102*. Sandgoby. 906*. Sandgurnard, 1063*. Sandkruiper, 61*, 62, 63*, 64*. Sandscraper, 1063*. Sand shark, 60*, 61*, 62, 63*, 64*. „ snake, 1 106*. sole, 342*. ., steenbras. 727*. stompkop, 711*. Saqomolo. 719*. Sarda, 25*, 26*. Sardine, 113*, 114, 115*. sardine. Surf, 891*. Sardinha. 1 14a. Sardyn, 115*. Sargassum fish, 1243*. Sarrajao, 833*. Sarsa, 731*. Saury. 224*. Saw fish, 58, 59*. .. shark. 56, 57*. Say Jynn, 58. Scad, 403. 404, 406*. Scavenger, 698*, 699, 702*. School shark, 15*. Scorpion fish, 1037*, 1038, 1039, 1040*, 1041*, 1042*, 1043*, 1049, 1050*. Scotsman, 743*. Scottie, 409*. Scrapers, p. 400. Seabarbel, 165*. seabass. Black, 447*. Seabat, 577*. sea-haarder. Red, 574*. Seahorse, 344, 345*, 346, 347*, 348*, 1059*, 1060*. Sea kite, 580*, 581*. Seapigs, p. 413. Seapike. 895. 896*, 897. Searobin, 1074*. 1075*. Seasnails, p. 379. Seebas, 727*. Seekoei, 1179*. Secperd, 344. 345*. 346, 347*, 348*. Seevark. 1156*. Seevarkie, 1179*. Serpenteels, p. 388. Serra, 840*. Seven-gill shark, 2*, 3. Seventy Four, 742*. Severrim, 727*. S‘Gao. 965*. Shad. 547*. shad. Gizzard. 117*. shark. Alligator, 44*. -Angel, 55*. Balloon, 34*. Basking, 23*, 29*. Black, 7*, 46*. Blackfin. 5*. Black Jack, 46*. Blue. 10*. Blue nurse, 24*. Blue porpoise, 28*. Bramble, 44*. Brown, 6*, 25*. Bulldog. 1*. Death, 26*. Dog. 11, 13. Fox, 22*. Ghost, 93, 94*. Grey, 5*. Grey nurse, 25*. Gummy, 17*, 18*. Hammerhead, 21* Lantern, 51*. shark, Lazy, 36*. Leopard, 30*. Lesser Blue, 13. Liver-otl, 15*. Mackerel, 27*. Mako, 28*. Mallet, 21*. Port Jackson. 4*. Prickle, 44*. Puft'adder, 39*. Ragged-tooth, 25*. River, 9*. Saw. 56, 57*. School, 15*. Seven-gill, 2*, 3. ,. Shovelnose, 60*. Snapper, 28*. Soupfin, 5*. Spear-eye, 18*. .. Spiny. 44*. Spotted gully, 18*. Spotted lazy, 38*. Swell, 34*. Thrasher, 22*. Thresher, 22*. Tiger. 14*. Whale, 29*. Whiptail, 22*. White Death, 26*. Yellow, 25*. Zebra. 30*. SHARKS. 1 54*. Sharksucker. 945*. 947*. 948, 949*. Shiner, 108*, 120. Shockfish. 91*. Shovel-nose. 60*. 63*. 64*. Sickle fish. 576*. Siilsmelt. 127*. Silver bream. 709*. 710*. „ conger. 1117*. fish. 745*. ., grunter. 676*. Silverside. 893*. Silver steenbras, 711*. Silvervis, 745*. Silvie, 709*. SImbonji, 165* Siriding. p. 245. Skaamhaai. 43*. Skaamoog, 39*. 43*. Skate. 65*. 67*. 68*. 69*, 71*. skate. Blue eye. 69*. ,, Bonnet. 74*. Diamond. 85, 86*. Electric. 89*, 91*, 92*. Spearnose, 67*. Skipjack. 100*. 547*, 829*. Skipper. 224*. Skippy, 224*. Slangeijie, 980*. 1028*, 1106*. Slimehead. pp. 148, 151. Slimy, 624. 625*, 626*, 627*, 901*, 902*, 902a* Slinger, 722*. Sly bream, 707*. Small salmon, 550. Smell, 380*. 467*. Snakefish. 869*. Snake mackerel. 864*. Snapper, 657*. 669*. snapper, Blood, 663*. „ Red, 662*, 664*, 665*. Snapper salmon, 553*. „ shark. 28*. Snipe eel, 1107*, 1108. Snipefishes, p. 171. Snoek, 841*, 863* ,895, 896*, 897. Soapy, 624, 625*, 626*, 627*. Soldier, 740*. Sole, 324*. 325*. 326. sole. Sand. 342*. Sonvis. 746*. 1213*. 1214*. Soup-bully, 431*. Soupfin shark, 5*. Spadefish. 578*. Spanish mackerel, 840*, 842*. Spear-eye shark, 18*. Spearfish, 875*, 876*. Spearnose skate. 67*. Spierhaai, 5*, 18*. Spierintje, 893*. Spiky Jack, 53, 54*. Spiny, 901*, 902*, 902a*. Spiny blaasop, 1184*. 1186, 1187*, 1188*, 1189*. „ Dogfish, 53. 54*. „ eels, p. 109. „ shark, 44*. Spot snapper, 659*. Spotted grunter. 679*. gully shark, 18*. ,. herring, Ill. lazyshark. 38*. ray 74*. Springer, 100*, 877*, 882*. springer. Freshwater, 890*. Steenbras. 711*, 719*. steenbras. Bank. 399*. Black. 719* Red, 741*. River. 726*. Rooi. 741*. Sand, 727*. Silver, 711*. White. 726*. Wit. 726*. Yellow. 741*. Steenklipvis. 398*. Steentjie. 739*. Steenvis, 397*. Stembras, 719*. Stingaree, 79*. Stingfish, 1037*. 1038, 10.39, 1041*. 1042*, 1043*, 1046, 1047*. 1048. Stingray. 75*, 77*, 79*, 80*. 82. Stockfish, 257*. Slokvis, 257*. Stompkop, 719*. Stompneus, 709*. Stonebass, 453*. Stone bream. 646*. fish, 646*. 1052*. Streepdassie, 714*. Streep-haarder, 882*. Streepie, 731*. Stripe grunter, 680*. Striped dogfish, 37*. „ karanteen. 731*. Stump. 725*. Stumpnose, 709*. stumpnose. Red. 725*, 740*. White. 708*. Suckerfish. 947*, 948, 949*, 1086*, 1088*. suckerfish. Weed, 1087*. Sunfish, 740*, 1212*, 1213*, 1214. Surf sardine. 891*. Surgeon fishes, p. 239. Surmullet, 560*, 561*, 562*, 563*. 564*. 565*, 566*, 567*. 568, 569*. 570*. Swart biskop, 719*. Sweepers, p. 247. Sweet-william, 18*. Swell shark, 34*. Swordfish, 873*. T Tailer, 547*. Tainha, 886*. Talang, 546. Tambak, 669*. Tampar, 304*. Tanda-tanda, 657*. Tandipa, 113*. Tandoh, 662*. 550 INDEX TO COMMON NAMES Tang, 608*. Tank goby, 919*. Tarpon, 99*, lOl*. Tasselfish, 555, 556*, 557*, 558, 559. Tembang, 114. Tembola, 663*. Tenpoundcr, 100*. Teraglin, 554*. Tcri. 119*. Tetenkel, 534*. Thornback, 71*. Thrasher shark, 22*. Thread eel, 1109*. Threadfin,s, p. 326. Threadfish, 527*. Thresher .shark, 22*. Tibiiron, 6*. Tiger, 679*. Tigerfish, 401*. Tiger shark. 14*, 43*. Toadfish, 12.34*, 1235*. 1236*. 1237*, 1238*. 1239*. 1240*. 1241*. 1242*, 1243*. Toby, 618*. 619, 1190*. 1191*, 1192*. 1193*, 1194*. 1196*, 1197*. 1199*. 1200*. 1201*. 1202*. 1203*. 1204*, 1205*, 1206*. 1207*. toby. Yellow, 1 195*. Tollo. 19*. 20. Tommy, 26*. Tong, 324, 325*. 326. Tope, 15*. Torpedo, 534*. Totodi, 1112. Triggerfish, 1 155*, 1156*, 1157*. 1158*, 1 160*. 1 161*, 1162*, 1163*, 1164*, 1166*, 1167*. 1168*, 1169*. 1170*, 1171*. triggerfish. Black, 1159*. Triplefin, 414*. Trumpet fishes, p. 171. Trunkfish, 1176*, 1 177*, 1212*. 1213*. 1214*. Tubarao. 5*. Tulo. 877*. Tuna. 831*. tuna, Allison, 835*. ,, Bluefin, 831*. .. Itoshibi, 834*. „ Japanese, 834*. ,. Little. 830*. „ Longfin, 836*. ,, Mackerel. 830*. ,, Yellowfin, 835*. Tunny, 831*. tunny, Allison, 835*. „ Bluefin. 831*. „ Itoshibi, 834*. „ Japanese, 834*. „ Little. 830*. „ 1 ongfin. 836*. „ Mackerel, 830*. „ Yellowfin, 835*. U Umga, 401*. Unicornfish. 615*, 616*. Uptail, 26*. V Vaca. 430. Vaqueta, 430. Varkbek. 726*. Varkie, 675*. Varkvis, 1156*. Vetvis. 738*. Viootvis, 61*, 62, 63*. Vleistokvis, 1063*. VIekhaai, 18*. Vyfvinger, 708*. W Wahoo, 843*. Wara-wara, 722*. Watermelon, 829*. Weed fish. 997*. Weed sucker-fish, 1087*. Whale shark, 29*. Whip ray. 75*, 79*. Whiptail shark, 22*. Whitebait, 107*, 108*, 119*. 120, 893*, White death shark, 26*. Whilefish, 726*. White-pointer, 26*. White steenbias, 726*. ,, stiimpnose, 708*. Wildopcrd, 714*. Wildcvis, 100*. Windtoy, 704*. Witbck, 719*. Witsteenbras. 726*. Witstompncus. 708*. Wittevis, 740*. Wolfherring. 103, 104*. Wrasses, p. 284. Wreckfish. 453*. Wriggler, 935*. Yeliowbelly, 435*. ■Yellow shark, 25*. ,. stecnbras, 741*. .. toby. 1195*. \'ello\v-fin bream. 710*. ,. tuna, 835*. ,, tunny, 835*. Yelloswtuil. 508*. 537*, 538*. Zebra, 714*. Zebra shark, 30*. Zeehaan, 1208*. 894*. PRINTED IN THE UNION OF SOUTH AERICA BV C ape: TIMES LIMITED CAPE TOWN