442 Fishes. 



THE CAVALLO-MARINO, OR SEA-HORSE. 

 (Hippocampus brevirostris.') 



THIS is a small fish, of a curious shape. The length 

 is from six to ten, and sometimes twelve, inches : the 

 head bears some resemblance to that of a horse, whence 

 originates its name. A series of longitudinal and trans- 

 verse ridges run from the head to the tail, which is 

 spirally curved and prehensile. 



The following account of two specimens taken alive 

 at Guernsey, in June, 1835, by F. C. Lukis, Esq., is ex- 

 tracted from Yarrell's " British Fishes." These creatures 

 were kept about twelve days in a glass vessel, and their 

 actions were equally novel and amusing. " An appear- 

 ance of search tor a resting-place induced me," says Mr. 

 Lukis, " to consult their wishes, by placing seaweed and 

 straws in the vessel : the desired effect was obtained, 

 and has afforded me much to reflect upon in their habits. 

 They now exhibit many of their peculiarities, and few 

 subjects of the deep have displayed, in prison, more sport 

 or more intelligence. 



"When swimming about, they maintain a vertical 

 position ; but the tail is ready to grasp whatever meets 

 it in the water, quickly entwines in any direction round 

 the weeds, and, when fixed, the animal intently watches 

 the surrounding objects, and darts at its prey with the 

 greatest dexterity. 



