BLIND FISH. 453 



The carps (Cyprinus), shiners and minnows abound every- 

 where in the Northern States in ponds and weedy streams. The 

 breeding habits of the dace (Rliinichthys atronasus Mitchill) 

 have been observed by Dr. Gregg. The females spawn over 

 "nests" or shallow depressions two feet in diameter in run- 

 ning brooks about a foot deep ; the male passes over the 

 tggs fertilizing them ; then the pair bring small pebbles 

 which are dropped over the eggs, until layer after layer alter- 



Fig. 413. Xeochaniia. From Liitken. 



nately of eggs and pebbles are deposited, Avhen a heap is 

 formed, the young hatching out and remaining among the 

 pebbles until old enough to venture out into the stream. 

 The dace is closely allied to the chub (Semofilii* rlioflieus 

 Cope, Fig. 415). Succeeding them are the suckers (family 

 Catostomidce) of Avhich Catostomus teres Lesueur is an ex- 

 ample. 



The blind fish of the Mammoth and other caves, and of 



Fig. 414. Mud-Minnow. From Abbot. 



adjoining wells connecting with subterranean streams, are 

 remarkable for the rudimentary state of the eyes, and con- 

 sequently of color. There are but two species, the mure 

 common and larger being Ambli/opst* xpelcens De Kay; this 

 species is viviparous. Representing the family Utnbriihe is 

 the mud-minnow (Mehtnunt liini Kirt., Fig. 414). 



The flying-fish represent another family. Their pectoral 

 fins are very broad and large. They dart from the w.-m-r 



