-*ss=^~ 



Fig. 263. JEquidzns curviceps (Incorrectly Acara thayeri) 



This is one of the newer importations and bids fair to become popular. Breeding 

 habits, page 238 (No. 6). 



Fig. 264. Haplochromis multicolor, or Mouthbreeder (Life size) 



There are many breeding methods among fishes which seem almost incredible to tht 

 novice, the Mouthbreeder being one of the most striking examples. After the eggs are 

 fertilized the female fills her mouth with them, retains them until hatched, and carries 

 the young about with her in the same way. During this period of several weeks she will 

 touch no food herself, this being one of Nature's clever provisions so she will have no 

 desire to swallow the eggs or young. Even if caught in a net, she tenaciously holds them, 

 neither losing or swallowing any. 



In addition to their interesting breeding habits, these fishes have attractive and very 

 changeable markings. Further details of breeding on page 230 (No. 6a). 



This fish and those shown in the eleven preceding illustrations are members of the 

 Cichlid family, but the breeding habits are not the same. 



270 



