246 



PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF 



[Apr., 



In all these examples Mr. Wolf found the belly rounded, the tubes 

 of the 1. 1. much branched, the dorsal always inserted behind the 

 ventrals, and but few color variations. He writes: "River fish are 

 darker in color and may be distinguished at once: the scales are 

 yellowish or yellow, in marked contrast to the brilliant mat-silver 

 of the fish taken in the Gulf and passes. The color is not due to a 

 nuptial change, more probably a muddy-water discoloration or 

 effect of fresh water. Fishes varying greatly in weight swim in the 

 same schools. The smallest tarpon taken in these passes weighed 

 26f pounds, the record largest fish 210 pounds. It is girth and 

 condition, more than length, that controls the weight of a tarpon. 

 The best catches are made at full and new moon, day and night 

 fishing. From May 10 to the end of July they are most numerous 

 in the passes. Tarpon have been observed cleaning spawning-beds, 

 but no spawn or young have been taken. The beds are made in 

 rivers and sheltered bays of brackish and fresh water, in the Caloosa- 

 hatchee and Peace Rivers, etc. " 



