THE CATFISHES 



feature it may readily be distinguished from the 

 fish previously described. 



Ameiurus vulgaris. — This species is to be partic- 

 ularly noted from the fact that the paternal instinct 

 or affection is, in common with but few other 

 fishes, fully developed, as seen in the diligent and 

 anxious care it takes to protect its young brood 

 from danger. This species was also the one 

 selected by the United States Fish Commission 

 for introduction to the waters of the Pacific 

 coast. This was done in 1877, and these fish 

 are now excessively abundant in the streams and 

 ponds of the western slope, especially in those of 

 California. 



There are two additional catfishes, the habitat 

 of which is the Great Lakes and their tributaries. 

 The first, the yellow cat {Ameiurus natalis, the 

 specific name from the Latin, signifying large 

 "nates" or "buttocks"), has a short, broad head, 

 wide mouth, and jaws equal in length, in many 

 specimens ; it is subject to many variations of color, 

 which seem to be dependent upon the location and 

 character of its habitat, as it is sometimes yellowish, 

 greenish, and blackish in coloration. One feature, 

 however, renders it characteristic among the cat- 

 fishes: its body is extremely short and chubby in 

 many individuals, which, in connection, with its 

 217 



