MR W. BAIRD ON THE HAIR-WORM. 23 



had only 8 spines, differing in this point from both the Im-is and Mr- 

 undo of Fleming, and the second and third spines were nearly of a 

 length, and about a half inch longer than the first. The second dorsal 

 consisted of 16, anal 15, ventral 6, and pectorals 9, agreeing in these 

 points with the fii-st of Fleming, caudal 18, and lunated. On each side 

 of the second dorsal fin there existed a row of large spines, increasing 

 in size from its commencement to its termination, agreeing here with 

 T. hirundo, Flem. At the base of the fii'st dorsal, these spines had 

 completely disappeared, and a rough ridge occupied their place, agree- 

 ing here with the T. lavis. The lateral line was partly smooth, and 

 partly rough ; thus uniting another distinguishing mark of the two 

 species : The colour on the back was of a greenish brown intermixed 

 with red, whilst the sides were of a rich vermilion ; studded with spots 

 of pure white. Belly pure white. The pectorals of a deep blue green 

 and red, blended together, and which, when fresh, exhibited a very 

 beautiful appearance. The head and caudal fin were red. Pupil dark 

 green. The membrane of the first dorsal fin was marked with large 

 patches of the same bright vermilion as the sides. 



Dr Fleming says that the fishermen on the coasts of Devonshire and 

 Cornwall regard the two species as the same fish. The specimen that 

 presented itself to our notice, seems to have united in it several of the 

 characters which are looked upon as distinguishing the sjDecies ; and 

 perhaps it may be found, upon a more extended examination, that the 

 one is a mere variety of the other. 



RemarTcs upon the Gordius aquaticus or Hair-Worm. By William 

 Baird, Esq., Smyeon, H.E.LC.8. (Eead July 17, 1833.) 



This slender animal, though common enough in our ponds, seems to 

 be one which naturalists have very cursorily or imperfectly described. 

 Even its place in the general arrangement of animals is not properly 

 fixed ; and with regard to its economy, little or nothing seems to be 

 decidedly known, though a sufficient number of fables are related of it. 



