320 



SPINY-FINNED FISHES. 



The Sea Perch or Basse (Labrax) closely resembles the river perch. 

 The scales are large, of a metallic lustre, and the operculum is ser- 



. 246 THE PEUCH. 



rated upon its middle plate. This fish abounds on our southern 

 coast, and is much esteemed as an article of food. 



FIG. 247. 



The Mullets (Mullus) are easily distinguished by the 

 large scales with which the whole body is covered, and 

 by two long cirrhi, or beards, that hang from under the 

 lower jaw. Two species live in European seas, namely, 

 the Eed Mullet and the Surmullet. 



The Red Mullet (Mullm bar'batus') has the body and tail red, even 

 after the scales have been removed ; its size is ordinarily from eight 

 to ten inches. It lives in many seas, particularly in the Mediterra- 

 nean, and is much prized for the excellency of its flesh. It is 



