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