242 HISTORY OF THE FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 



the Lamna punctata. Numerous minute black points, the orifices of mucous pores, are 

 distributed along the under surface of the snout. Mouth of moderate size, situated be- 

 neath. Three rows of elongated, sharp, smooth teeth, with a minute denticulation on each 

 side, at their base, in each jaw ; about twelve teeth on each side of the median line, — 

 those toward the angle of the mouth the smallest. The tongue is large, fleshy, smooth. 

 The posterior of the branchial orifices is situated just anterior to the base of the pec- 

 toral fins. 



The lateral line is scarcely discernible. 



The first dorsal fin arises upon the anterior half of the body, nineteen inches posterior 

 to the tip of the snout. It is slightly convex upon its anterior edge, rounded above, 

 emarginated posteriorly. A portion of its base is free. 



The second dorsal is situated about six inches back of the first, of the same form, and 

 but a very little smaller than that fin. 



The pectorals are broad and stout, and as high again as long. 



The ventrals are semiquadrate ; they are just back of the termination of the first dor- 

 sal fin ; the distance between the ventrals and anal is less than the length of the ventrals. 



The anal fin is of the form and size of the second dorsal, and arises on a line opposite 

 the termination of that fin. 



About three inches back of the second dorsal, the body tenninates in a slight protu- 

 berance, directly back of which is a depression from which commences the caudal fin. 

 This fin is thirteen inches in length ; at its anterior inferior margin, it is similar hi form 

 to the dorsal and anal fins; this portion is rounded at its inferior posterior margin, 

 emarginated upon its posterior edge, and is continued gradually elongating, its inferior 

 edge being a mere fringe, and terminates within three inches of the extremity of the 

 tail, which dilates into a triangular portion. 



The specimen above described measured three feet and eleven inches. 



Length, four feet. 



Remarks. This species was first described and figured by Mr. William 0. Ayres from 

 a specimen taken in Long Island Sound, on the north shore of Brookhaven. It is un- 

 common in our waters. 



Massachusetts, Storer. Connecticut, Ayres. 



