278 RUFF BASSE SEA-PERCH. 



THE RUFF. 



This fish is distinguished from others of the perch kind, 

 by having only one dorsal fin, and a cavernous head. The 

 dorsal fin extends along the greater part of its back, the 

 tail is slightly bifurcated, and the body is covered with 

 rough scales. The back and sides are of a dirty green 

 colour, the last inclining to yellow, and both spotted with 

 black : the dorsal fin is also spotted in the same manner, 

 and the tail is marked with transverse bars* 



The ruff breeds in ponds, and several English streams ; 

 and assembles in large shoals in deep waters. It may be 

 kept a considerable time in a glass jar, provided the water 

 is frequently changed ; where it will become tame and 

 very familiar. No fish is more vivacious ; for it can even 

 exist out of its native element for half an hour, without 

 sustaining any sensible injury. 



THE BASSE. 



This is a vivacious, strong, and active fish, and hence 

 has obtained also the name of the sea-wolf. It weighs 

 about fifteen pounds ; and resembles a trout in its shape, 

 except that the head is proportionably larger. The back 

 is of a dusky colour tinged with blue, the belly is white, 

 and the tail slightly forked. The flesh is extremely well- 

 tasted and salubrious. 



It is found in the seas surrounding the British islands ; 

 but seldom enters our rivers, though it is evidently a 

 species of perch. 



THE SEA-PERCH. 



In shape, size, and colour, this fish strongly resembles 

 the fresh-water perch ; but it is somewhat thinner in pro- 

 portion to its length, and more variegated. The back is 

 marked with six or seven blackish transverse lines ; and 

 the intermediate space inclines to reddish, particularly 

 towards the head. The whole head, and part of the 

 belly, are elegantly varied with red and blue streaks ; the 



