382 FISHES. 



large size. The majority remain of rather small size, growing 

 to a length of one or two feet ; luit not a few reach more 

 than twice that length, and may even become dangerons to 

 man. Instances of bathers having been attacked by a gigantic 

 species not uncommon at the Seychelles and Aden are on 

 record, the persons having died from the injuries received. 

 Almost all the species are eatable, and many are esteemed as 

 food. One species is common on tlie British coasts (S. cahrilla), 

 and probably some of the more southern species {S. scriha 

 and S. gigasj occasionally wander as far northwards as the 

 British Channel. The species figured, S. altivelis, is locally 

 distributed over nearly all the tropical parts of the Indian 

 Ocean, and distinguished by particularly high dorsal and anal 

 fins. Anypcr.odon and Prionodcs are two genera closely allied 

 to Scrra7iiis. 



Plectropoma. — Form of the body and dentition (see p. 127, 

 Fig. 54) similar to that of Serramis, with a pra3operculum serrated 

 behind, and armed with spinous teeth below, which are directed 

 forwards. Dorsal fin with from seven to thirteen spines. 



About thirty species from tropical seas are knowai. 

 Trachy^poma is allied to this genus. 



PoLYPRiON. — Body oblong, rather compressed, covered with 

 small scales. All the teeth are villiform ; teeth on the vomer, 

 palatine bones, and the tongue. One dorsal with eleven or 

 twelve spines ; anal with three. rnTeoperculum denticulated ; a 

 strong, rough, longitudinal ridge on the operculum. 



Two species are known : one from the European coasts 

 [P. cernium), and one from Juan Fernandez (P. hieri). They 

 attain to a weight of 80 lbs. and more. The European 

 species has the habit of accompanying floating wood, to wdiich 

 they are attracted by the small marine species generally 

 surrounding such objects, and affording a supply of food. It 

 is known by the name of " Stone-bass," and excellent eating. 



Grammistes. — Body rather short, compressed, covered with 



