94 U. S. BUREAU OF FISHERIES 
water-circulating system, and capable of transporting 3,000 to 5,000 
fish ranging in “weight from % to 1 pound each. The catches of 
mullet were obtained from regular fishing crews who were able to 
transfer them directly into the barge w ithout exposing the fish to 
air for more than a few seconds. On arrival at the storage pond 
the fish were released from the barge into a receiving lock, from which 
they swam into the pond with the flood tide. A total of over 12,000 
mullet were placed in captivity by this procedure, along w ith a few 
hundred specimens of croakers, spot, pigfish, white perch, and other 
species. 
No additional roe mullet were placed in the ponds in 1939, be- 
cause it was important to first determine whether those held in cap- 
tivity since the previous year had continued to grow and develop 
spawn to the extent that they would under natural conditions. A 
number of the largest fish were caught in October and November 
1939 and examined as to quantity of. spawn, condition of the flesh, 
and number of growth zones on the scales. These specimens, rang- 
ing in weight from 214 to 5 pounds, were found to contain ripe roe 
which weighed from 614 to 12 ounces, according to the size of the 
fish. Experienced local fishermen expressed the opinion that these 
mullet were in as fine condition, and as fully developed with roe, 
as those being captured at that time in the commercial fisheries. 
Studies of the scales showed that the growth of the impounded fish 
had been considerable since their last “winter spawning period, and 
equivalent to that found in free individuals which had spent the 
previous summer in these waters. The general results indicate, there- 
fore, that ponds of this type can be used not only for growing mullet 
without artificial feeding, but also as automatic marine hatcheries 
having an approximate output of 500 million fry per acre. The 
tidal flats and shallow areas in the ponds were also used successfully 
for oyster culture, which, at the same time, improved conditions for 
production of the natural food of the mullet. 
Improvements to the Beaufort Laboratory.— Extensive repairs and 
improvements were made to the buildings, equipment, and grounds of 
the laboratory with funds provided by the P. W. A. and the W. P. A. 
The main laboratory and dormitory rooms were refinished inside 
with suitable wallboard, some new flooring was laid, and modern 
plumbing fixtures and improved electrical conduits and outlets for 
the experimental tanks and other special equipment were installed. 
The salt-water system was greatly improved by the installation of 
new pipe lines with continuous flow and valve arrangements that per- 
mit complete flushing and removal of sediment without interference 
with experiments. A new supply of fresh water is obtained from a 3- 
inch artesian well drilled on the island, which has an overflow of 25 
gallons per minute that is distributed to the 8 terrapin pens. In the 
various laboratory rooms 10 new experimental tanks have been con- 
structed and provided with flood lights and outlets for salt and fresh 
water, electricity, and compressed air. 
The terrapin-rearing house was completely remodeled, and 12-foot 
additions were placed on each side; one for a small aquarium and the 
other for the storage of lumber, ‘equipment, and supplies. In the 
aquarium a small exhibit of marine fish, turtles, crustaceans, and other 
aquatic animals has been made possible by the installation of 2 large 
