262 GOBIAIXE. 



which is united to the upper edge of the fleshy portion of 

 the tail by a continuation of the membrane connecting the 

 fin-rays : the ventrals of two rays, which originate before the 

 pectorals, and immediately behind the edge of the gill-cover : 

 the pectoral fins are large and rounded, the longest rays, 

 which are in the middle, reaching as far as the vent : the 

 anal fin commences immediately behind the vent, and under 

 the depression in the dorsal fin ; the last ray is attached to 

 the tail; all the rays in this fin extend beyond the mem- 

 brane : the tail is rounded ; the lateral line proceeding for- 

 wards, is straight for two-thirds of the distance along the 

 side, it then curves over the pectoral fin to the upper edge of 

 the operculum. 



" It has justly been observed, that this species is extremely 

 variable in colour ; out of twenty or more examined at the 

 same time, not two were to be found alike ; some are pret- 

 tily mottled with reddish brown, others quite plain, and one 

 variety is of a uniform dusky colour, even on the under 

 parts." 



" This species of Blenny is remarkably tenacious of life, 

 and will live out of water for many days in a damp place, or 

 put in fresh grass or moss moistened with water ; and proba- 

 bly, with a little attention, might be kept alive in this way 

 for many weeks. If put into fresh water, it swims and does 

 not appear to feel any inconvenience, but does not long sur- 

 vive the change." Montagiis MS. 



It rarely exceeds five inches in length. 



According to Mr. Thompson this fish is found on the 

 south, the west, and north-east coasts of Ireland : Dr. George 

 Johnston finds it common in Berwick Bay ; and Dr. Parnell 

 says it is abundant in the Frith of Forth. 



