

Fig. 162. Life Size Illustration of a 

 Precociously Developed Young Goldfish 



163. Life Size Illustration of a Goldfish Same Age as Shown 



Above 



It scarcely seems credible that these two fishes are of the same age, 

 but they are both between seven and eight months of age. Sometimes 

 the difference in growth is even greater. The reason for this variation 

 is unknown. 



These illustrations also demonstrate the statement (page 2. 1 , ) that 

 "runts" sometimes show extraordinary fin development. The upper fish 

 will never increase much in size and will probably die within a year, 

 whereas the lower fish has a good chance of living several years and de- 

 veloping into a beautiful aquarium specimen, because it has strength and 

 the fins are of the right shape for future development. 



This is about the right size for a fancy goldfish in October which 

 has been hatched in the Spring. 



189 



