THE PAPAGALLOS 



Family XXXVII. Nematistiidce 



THIS family is related to the Carangidce, from which it is 

 distinguished by the peculiar development of the anal and dorsal 

 spines. 



Only a single species, Nematistms pectoralis, is known. It 



is a large, showily-coloured fish, generally common from the Gulf 

 of California to Panama. It reaches a length of 3 or 4 feet, 

 and is used for food at Guaymas, La Paz, Mazatlan, and per- 

 haps elsewhere. It is known as the pez de gallo, or papagallo, 

 and is one of the most stately fishes in our waters, its long, 

 brightly coloured rays giving it a most striking appearance. 



Colour, plumbeous on the back and opercles; sides golden; 

 an indigo-blue crossband on snout, another on forehead, a third 



