GREA T BRIT A IN. 207 



were of a large size as compared with those of the turbot. 

 Thompson observed obtaining examples 3 inches long in 

 January, 1835. 



Life history. The opinion was formerly entertained that 

 the plaice is descended from a shrimp, and Dr. Deslandes 

 investigated the subject. He first placed some of the 

 shrimps in a vessel of salt water, and after twelve or 

 thirteen days he discovered eight or nine young plaice. The 

 next year he placed some plaice in two different salt-water 

 receptacles, and to one lot he added a few of the shrimps, 

 not so to the other. Both lots spawned, but it was only 

 where the shrimps were that any young were produced. 

 On examining the shrimps, he discovered the ova attached 

 to the under surface of these crustaceans, and he felt 

 persuaded that their maternal care is a necessity for 

 bringing forth the fry. But Lacepede suggested that the 

 shrimps eat the ova of flat fishes, and some may become 

 glued to their under surface when they are unable to 

 devour them. Comparatively rare as the male is, as 

 already observed, I obtained one full of milt in February, 

 1882. Respecting how it is that in some localities the 

 number of plaice appears to have decreased, see page 223. 



As food. This fish is in the best condition about May, and 

 Mr. Mayhew computed that upwards of three millions are 

 annually consumed in London. Off Devonshire, its quality 

 depends upon the nature of the ground on which it is 

 captured, for, if muddy or sandy, the taste partakes more 

 or less of either. When from sand, it is firm and sweet ; if 

 from mud, the reverse. In Banffshire it is held in little 

 estimation ; it is usually deemed poor as food, but bears 

 carriage well. In Ireland, however, Thompson states that 

 it is held in general esteem. 



Habitat. From Iceland, along the coasts of Northern 



