BEAUtlFlTL FISH. ^31 



ridge is a flat prominent spine, directed backwards. The color 

 is quite changeable; it is usually of a bluish cast, with brown 

 spots and marks. It is a slow swimmer, and is often seen rest- 

 ing on the bottom. It will live several hours out of water with- 

 out undergoing any apparent change, but when returned to the 

 water, it is at first unable to sink to the bottom on account of 

 the air it has absorbed. Its pectoral fins are constantly in mo- 

 tion, apparently for the purpose of fanning a current of water 

 through the gills. Its flesh is of a light color, and its appear- 

 ance and taste is like the breast of a chicken. It is best baked, 

 but is said to be at times poisonous. 



The Squirrel fish is very beautiful. Its color is scarlet, and in 

 brightness exceeds that of the gold fish. Its body is elongated 

 and slightly compressed. Its head is well proportioned, and has 

 prominent spines. It swims quickly and vivaciously. The local 

 name refers to a noise uttered by it which resembles the bark 

 of a squirrel. It is very common in the Bahamas, and is usually 

 the angler's first prize. It is little valued as a table fish on ac- 

 count of its small size. 



The Illnd is a very common and very handsome fish, and some- 

 times attains a length of eighteen inches. It is of a brownish or 

 rosy-white color, and is marked with numerous deep rose-red 

 spots. Being very voracious, it is easily caught. Its flesh is 

 finely flavored, and is seldom, if ever, poisonous. 



The Blue fish is from ten to eighteen inches long, and weiglis 

 about two pounds. Its color is ultramarine, with a few pink 

 marks about the head and eyes. Catesby says the iris of its 

 eyes is red. Its scales are relatively large, and are used in the 

 manufacture of fancy work. 



Tlie Bo)te fish has scales which are used in making the most 

 exquisite fancy work. The scales, after being washed in several 

 waters, are cut into the desired shape, and pierced in two places 



