70 



DE. G. H. FOWLEK — BISCATAN PLANKTON 



Parsons Bank at the entrance to the Channel produced such hvmdreds of hlpimctata 

 that the contents of the bottle looked more like vermicelli soup than the results of a 

 tow-net. 



The captures in the Bay of Biscay were only six in number (seven specimens in all), 

 and all occurred at less than 200 fathoms in open nets; the hauls were 25^ (50-0); 

 33 h (75-0); 2,2 d, 32 «, 32^j (100-0) ; 30 r/ (200-0). From the Parsons Bank specimens 

 I have deduced the preceding table, and have given a definition and figures to bring the 

 species into line with the others here described. 



Sagitta decipiens, sp. n. (PI. 5. figs. 32-35.) 



Characters. — Head and body of the proportions of bipunctata or serratodentata, to 

 both of which it bears a strong resemblance ; it carries, however, large ova at a very 

 much smaller size. Body very slender, thickest behind the middle of its length, 

 tapering very gradually towards each end. Neck not well marked ; collarette very slight. 

 The whole body very transparent, but firm, and retaining its shape. Anterior fin long 

 and narrow, not reaching to the ventral ganglion. Posterior fin about the same length, 

 broader, more triangular ; about equally on trunk and tail, widest part at or just behind 

 the septum. Tail-fin truncate. Corona not observed ; ventral ganglion prominent. 

 Ovary short and thick, very opaque in the transparent body, extending when apparently 

 ripe as far as the anterior end of the posterior fin. Ova comparatively very large. 



Jaws curved slightly, slender ; external pillar small or absent. Posterior teeth long 

 and closely apposed ; anterior teeth shorter, triangular, with broad leases. Vestibular 

 ridge prominent, with thick cuticle ; a very strong process, sometimes forked, at the 

 external edge, extending further at both ends than the row of teeth. 



The following table has been summarized from 20 specimens. 



Distribution. — As regards the distribution of this form, the occurrences as recorded in 

 the general table, although correct so far as they go, must not be taken necessarily to 

 indicate the extremes of its habitat upwards or downwards ; this follows from its small 



