328 



DUBLIN EEL. 



AncjuUla Hibernica, Nobis. 



We have already noticed the likeness which the different 

 species of Eels bear to each other, and the influence this has 

 had in preventing those which are truly distinct from being 

 at all times clearly separated from others. And to this another 

 hindrance will be found in that proneness to variation in 

 appearance which arises from variety of situation in regard to 

 water and soil; to which we add, that even a close description 

 of any one of the species is not always sufficient to enable an 

 observer to decide concerning it, unless he has also brought 

 it into comparison with others that are nearly allied. It is 

 from these considerations that we feel some hesitation in 

 coming to the decision that the Eel we are going to describe 

 is a distinct kind from others which are regarded as natives 

 of the British Islands; but on the other hand, after a near 

 comparison with our other species, as well in reference to its 

 general aspects, as also in regard to a difference in several 

 particulars of form and proportions, the opinion that as a 

 species it is distinct greatly preponderates; and we add also, 

 that it appears closely to answer to the kind which Cuvier 

 has designated with the name of A. lojigbec. 



The example described, and from which our figure was 

 drawn, was procured from the River Liffey through the 

 kindness of R. Palmer Williams, Esq., and it will rest with 

 the naturalists of that city, whose activity in the cause of 

 science has already produced rich fruit, to decide further on 

 the subject, as also to ascertain what peculiarity there may 

 be noticed in its habits. Mr. Thompson says that he had 

 observed an Eel from Strangford, which he supposed to be 

 different from the recognised species of British Eels, but in 



