44 FISHES OF AUSTRALIA. 



known as the Long-finned Eel, the Conger Eel (Lepto- 

 cephalus labiatus), and the Silver Eel (Murcenesox 

 cinereus). The Serpent Eel (Ophisurus serpens) is 

 also a member of this family. Of the second family, only 

 one species is of any economic importance ; and that is the 

 Green Eel (Gynmothorax prasina) ; while others of the 

 same family are, the Painted Eel (Gymnothorax plcta) 

 and the Clouded Eel (Echidna nebulosa). 



The Common Eel is found in all the rivers and 

 estuaries of the eastern watershed of New South Wales, 

 and is the principal Eel of the Sydney Fish Markets. It 

 also abounds on the coasts of Queensland and Victoria, 

 more particularly the former. Stray specimens of eels have 

 been reported from high up in western waters in New 

 South Wales ; but they must only be looked upon as "strays, ' 

 and nothing more ; as no species of true Eel is known to 

 habitually dwell in those waters. 



The Common Eel attains a length of over 3 feet, with 

 a weight of at least 10 pounds ; a weight of 3 to 4 pounds 

 is, however, considered a fair average. 



No special fishery for the capture of this valuable fish, 

 or its allies, at present exists ; those that are brought to 

 market being usually captured along with other fishes in 

 hauling-nets usually on muddy flats. As a food-fish it is 

 prized, the flesh being of good flavour. 



The name Long-finned Eel is sometimes applied to this 

 species, to distinguish it from another somewhat similar 

 form known as the Short - finned Eel (Angnilla 

 australis). In the former, the dorsal fin extends very 

 much farther forward than in the latter. 



In colour, the Common Eel is of a dark olive-brown, 

 streaked and spotted with black; the lower surface being 

 whitish. 



Before going any farther, it may be as well to speak 

 upon a subject which ever and anon agitates the public 

 mind, both in Australia and elsewhere ; and that is, in re- 

 gard to the question : "How do Eels reproduce ?" the refer- 

 ence being, of course, to Eels which are known to dwell 

 in fresh-waters. 



