76 



GOLDFISH VARIETIES AND 



The Rainbow Darter Esteoma coerulea is probably the most bril- 

 liantly colored of our native fishes, being barred with red, blue, orange and 

 green in most striking fashion. On account of its brilliant coloring it is 



Fig. 58. The Darter (Enlarged nearly twice) 



known as the Soldier Fish. It occurs in shallow streams of the Middle 

 West. Extremely fond of daphnia or very small worms, but may be- 

 come educated to taking shreds of raw meat. They can be kept success- 

 fully and are well worth the trouble. 



THE KILLIFISH 



Killifish, both fresh and saltwater forms are among the most hardy 

 of the smaller fishes. Used largely as bait-fish on account of their 

 tenacity of life, they exhibit the same quality in the aquarium, standing 



Fig. 59. The Killifish or Bullhead Minnow {Enlarged one-half) 



very bad treatment before succumbing. The barred sides and fleeting 

 irridescent colors are most attractive, particularly in the saltwater form 

 of Fundulus diaphanus. They will eat anything and are harmless to 

 other aquarium fishes. Boys usually know this fish in streams as the 

 "bull-head" minnow, while the popular name on the New Jersey coast 

 for the saltwater form is "Mummychug." Size 3 to 4 inches. 



