424 



FisJies. 



THE THORNBACK, (Eaia davata,) 



RESEMBLES the Skate in its general appearance ; the prin- 

 cipal difference consists in the latter having sharp teeth, 

 and a single row of spines upon the tail, while the former 

 has blunt teeth, and several rows of spines both upon 

 the back and tail. A Thornback was caught near the 

 island of St. Kitt's, in the year 1634, which measured 

 twelve feet in length, and nearly ten in width. It is 

 sometimes eaten in England, but as its flesh is inferior 

 to that of the Skate, it is generally sold at a low price. 

 The young ones, however, which have the denomination 

 of Maids, are delicate eating. 



