200 FISHES OF THE FIRTH OF FORTH. 



the Chordaria Jlagelliformis. They are found in pools 

 near Aberlady, but seldom more than three or four together. 

 While undisturbed, they remain apparently motionless, mov- 

 ing the pectorals only, and occasionally giving a dart with 

 such velocity as almost to escape observation. Specimens 

 have occasionally been taken at Queensferry, but they are 

 rarely seen as high up as Alloa. 



They feed on small insects, and the fry of other fishes, and 

 spawn in the early part of spring. Their flesh is never made 

 use of as food. 



Family III. SCI^NID^E. Preoperculum denticu- 

 lated, operculum with spines; no teeth on the vomer or pa- 

 latine. 



Genus SCI^NA. Dorsal fins two ; head and body 

 covered with scales. 



SCI^NA AQUILA.* ThE MaIGRE. 



Specific Character. — Anal fin with only one spine ; chin without a 

 barbule. 



Description. — Body elongated, resembling the Perca labrax in form ; 

 sides rather compressed, covered with scales ; first dorsal fin short; 

 the anterior rays the longest ; second dorsal, with the terminating 

 rays, the shortest ; tail even at the end ; preoperculum very slightly 

 notched at its posterior and inferior margin ; operculum ending in 

 two flattened points directing over the base of the pectorals ; jaws 

 nearly of equal length ; cheeks covered with scales. First dorsal fin 

 commencing over the base of the pectorals, and ending at a short dis- 

 tance below the termination of the rays ; second dorsal commencing 

 close behind the first, and ending near the base of the tail ; anal fin 

 short, placed rather behind the middle of the second dorsal ; ventrals 

 situated a little behind the base of the pectorals. Colour of the head 

 and back brownish-grey ; cheeks and sides silvery-grey ; belly dull 

 white. Lateral line commencing over the upper part of the oper- 



• Scicena oquilfu Cuv., Yar., Jen., Flem. 



