Foreword 



Rhode Island is the gateway to the North and to the South for the 

 marine fish of the Atlantic Seaboard. Its numerous inlets, bays, and 

 estuaries offer a haven and provide all necessities for permanent habita- 

 tion for numerous kinds of marine fish, fishing is one of the most im- 

 portant industries of Rhode Island. It is indeed fitting thai a guide hook 

 on marine fish be written by a young marine biologist, who has lived 

 close by the sea in one of the most completely seabound stales along the 

 east coast. 



This book serves a long-time need, for it is exactly fifty years since am- 

 plification describing the marine fish of Rhode Island waters has been 

 published. 



The present publication serves as an important source of valuable 

 information for fishermen, boy scouts, nature-lovers, students, teachers, 

 marine biologists and naturalists. It answers questions for the curious 

 whose interest lies latent. It offers a challenge to those requiring further 

 stimulus for motivation in their many leisure hours. It is timely written 

 since so much current interest has been aroused in the sea through skin 

 diving and undersea exploration. This book gives impetus to scientific 

 study in marine fishery by its popular presentation of the many different 

 species of marine fish. It assists in making known the many unsolved 

 problems in marine biology, such as life histories, migrations, and ecologi- 

 cal factors. 



One of the most valuable features of this guide book is the inclusion of 

 photographs of the species of fish described in such detail in the book. 

 For the first time a number of species have been photographed by the 

 young author who has proved himself such a keen observer. 



A glance at the extensive bibliography indicates the thoroughness and 

 outstanding scholarship of the author as well as a keen desire in im- 

 parting his knowledge through his prolific, writing. The up-to-date bibli- 

 ography alone makes this book an important addition in any library. 



MARY M. Keeffe, Professor of Biology 

 Rhode Island College 



