DOG-FISH: SAW-FISH. 



61 



eggs, which are enclosed in flat oblong cases, with a long tendril 

 from each corner, by which it clings to solid bodies, or to sea- 

 weed. In these cases, which are commonly known by the name 





283. HAMMER- HEADED SHARK. 



of " fairies 1 purses," there is a fissure at each end, which admits 

 the free access of sea- water to the egg ; and through one of these 

 the young subsequently escapes. The Small Spotted Dog-fish is 

 the species most common on our own shores ; and it is not only 

 very troublesome to the fishermen by entangling itself in their 

 nets, but also by frightening away the shoals of Herrings, &c., 

 which are migrating towards the coast. The last fish of this 

 family here to be noticed, is the Pristis or Saw-fish; so named 



FIG. 284. SAW-FISH. 



from the extension of its snout into a long flat blade, furnished 

 with a row of sharp spines, resembling teeth, on either side. 

 With this formidable weapon the Saw-fish attacks the largest 

 Whales, and inflicts very severe wounds. It sometimes attains 



