636 PROCEEDINGS OF UNITED STATES NATIONAL MUSEUM. [1885. 



coasts of Cuba and Yucatan. The Great Dolphin is one of the most 

 active and vigorous fishes known to the Gulf fishermen. 



It is often seen while in chase of flying-fishes and schools of small- 

 fry, and also while lurking about vessels at anchor on the fishing 

 grounds or becalmed, to pick up any scraps of food that may be thrown 

 overboard. At such times it can be captured with an ordinary small 

 hook and line, or with the more elaborate outfit of rod, reel, and fine 

 line, using a squid or metal spinner, or common fish -bait. 



When hooked the dolphin fights hard, jumping and shaking itself to 

 get rid of the hook, and it is well worth the attention of the angler. It 

 is taken only with hook and line, while trolling, or on the red-snapper 

 grounds as above mentioned. 



While in the water it presents a beautiful appearance, being graceful 

 in movement and brightly colored. Then the colors mentioned in the 

 description of the species appear much brighter than after the death of 

 the fish. 



The dolphin is not a good food-fish. Its flesh is dark and tough. 



It spawns in July and August, probably among floating algae. 



