THE SALMON FAMILY. 



33 



might here mention that, though at present it is considered 

 that there is only one species of Retropinna in our waters, 

 I think it is highly probable that a close examination of 

 specimens from various parts will reveal the existence of 

 at least two species.) The Australian Smelt is found in 

 both salt and fresh water, and is to be found in a number 

 of the creeks around Sydney ; as well as in the Sydney 

 Water-Supply Reservoir at Prospect, in which there are 

 myriads. In any of the localities mentioned, when cap- 

 tured, it may be at once distinguished from the Minnows 

 (Gala.rias) amongst which it is often found by its more- 

 generally silvery appearance, and the possession of a little 

 fleshy-looking adipose dorsal fin situated on the back of the 

 tail, as in all true Trouts and Salmons. This is in addi- 

 tion to the main dorsal fin, which is situated farther forward 

 than is the single dorsal fin of the Minnows. In Xew 

 Zealand, where this species is quite common, it is known 

 as "Whitebait." During the early summer months, large 

 numbers of the young, up to 2 or 3 inches in length, are 

 captured at the mouths of some of the New Zealand rivers. 

 These form the so-called "New Zealand Whitebait" which :s 

 sold by the pound in some of the Sydney fish shops. 



Amongst the various kinds of Trout that have been 

 introduced into, and acclimatised in, our waters, perhaps the 

 most important is the Rainbow Trout (Salmo irideus). 

 This fish is a native of the State of California, in America. 

 Of all the many forms of Trout and Salmon it seems to 

 be the one that is best fitted for acclimatisation in parts 

 foreign to its original habitat, on account of its ready adapta- 

 bility to its surroundings under greatly varying conditions 

 both in regard to the quality and the temperature of the 

 water. Through the efforts of the United States Fish Com- 

 mission and the various State Fish Commissions, it is now 

 to be found over a great part of the United States. It has 

 also been introduced into some of the Canadian rivers, 

 South America, Europe, Great Britain, South Africa, New 

 Zealand, and, as already stated, in our own country. In many 

 of the mountain streams of New South Wales, it has thriven 

 wonderfully, being now a source of attraction to tourists 

 and others, as well as providing an occasional meal to num- 

 bers of the riverside residents. 



D 



