256 PERCID^. 



branched rays ; the anal, six spinous and eleven soft rays ; the 

 caudal with rounded tips has seventeen rays. 



The Rock Bass is excellent eating, and gives good sport to 

 the angler, though it never attains to the size of the Black Bass, 

 rarely exceeding a pound or a pound and a half, and conse- 

 quently being far less difficult to take. 



This fish, as well as the Black Bass and others of the family, 

 might be transplanted with great ease into inland waters ; and 

 as they are hardy, and defended from all enemies by their sharp 

 and spiny fins, would be sure to thrive, and would prove delicious 

 additions to our lacustrine species of fishes. 



