NORTH SEA INVESTIGATIONS. 375 



Turhot {Rhombus maxirmis). 

 April 1st to September 12tli^ chiefly during the spawing period. 



The male seems to come to maturity at about 12 to 15 inches. 

 Though I believe that some few females may spawn at 17 inches^ 

 I have no positive evidence to that effect, and I am convinced that 

 18 inches is the lowest size that could be usefully employed in de- 

 fining a limit between mature and immature. 



Spawning period. — A very few fish seem to spawn as early as the 

 end of March, and a few during April. Spawning becomes more 

 general towards the end of May. The chief period is June and July. 

 The number of ripe females diminishes throughout August, but a 

 few do not finish spawning until early in September. 



Brill {Rhombus Isevis). 

 April 1st to June 30th. 



* Reproductive organs very little advanced, 

 t Exact size, 18^ inches. 

 X One three parts ripe, the rest half I'ipe. 

 § Examined after the spawning period. 



