OSSEOUS FISHES. 595 



the Triglas, but differs in having the fin-rays of the pectorals con- 

 nected by membranes, by which it is enabled to support itself some 

 time in the air, like the flying-fish ; the pectorals, when extended, 

 forming a sort of parachute (Fig. 390), which sustains it when it 

 leaps out of the water. Several species are known. 



Fig. 390. The Flying Gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans> 



All nature seems to conspire against these singular creatures, while 

 they have been gifted with the double power of swimming and flying. 

 The flying-fish only escapes from the Bonitas, and other voracious 

 fishes which pursue it on the bosom of the sea, to expose itself to the 

 attacks of the inhabitants of the air. A crowd of sea-fowl, such as 

 frigate-birds, the albatross, and the gulls, carry on a bloody war with 

 them when they venture on flight. Enemies thus pursue the unhappy 

 fish whatever element it betakes itself to. Nevertheless it passes from 

 one element to the other with an energy which frequently defeats 

 the attacks of its enemies. When it leaps from the sea to the height 

 of five or six feet, it sustains itself for several hundred feet, changing 

 its direction. In its flight it may be compared to that of the flying 

 dragon ; the popular name given to it is said to be derived from the 

 grunting noise they make on being taken out of the water. 



2 Q 2 



