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BROAD-NOSED EEL. 



Anguitta LaUrottrU. 



It seems probable that this species is as widely distributed 

 as cither of the others known among us; but it does not 

 appear to be anywhere in large numbers. It has also been 

 doubted whether its habits of migration, especially when young, 

 are the same as those of the Sharp-nosed species; and yet when 

 examining those little Elvers, or transparent young ones which 

 have been found near the low-water mark, an example which 

 resembled the Broad-nosed Eel has been seen, as well as that 

 which has been distinguished with a long and pointed snout. 



It has been noticed that those who trade in Eels have long 

 been aware of a difference between the several kinds; and this 

 Broad-nosed sort is quickly marked out by them as of inferior 

 quality for the table. When at liberty also these kinds usually 

 keep separate from each other, although sometimes they are 

 found mingled together in the same net. 



The present species is decidedly voracious in its appetite, and 

 it is described as being more accustomed than the others to 

 seize and feed on living fishes; but in general their habits in 

 this respect are much the same. And as regards its description 

 this kind will be best known by comparing it with the others; 

 and especially with that which stands first in our enumeration; 

 its most obvious difference being the broader and more blunt 

 or rounded form of the head toward the snout; which difference 

 was formerly believed to mark the distinction of sexes. Pennant 

 also notices that the skin is thicker than the first-named; the 

 gape somewhat larger; as are also the eyes, which are situated 

 further back. The colour is an uncertain mark of difference 

 in these fishes; but there is an appearance in this of a greater 

 disposition to dusky or brown. 



