AND HOW TO CATCH THEM. 79 



will be referred to as a bait for other fish ; and excellent 

 it is for this purpose. The loach is an inhabitant of 

 shallow clear brooks, on the gravelly bottom of which 

 it may be often seen, head up stream, lying perfectly 

 motionless, waiting for minute insects and worms 

 which the current may bring within its reach. It is 

 a small fish, rarely exceeding four inches in length, 

 furnished with' barbes or wattles at the lips, of a 

 yellowish mottled colour, and not unlike a gudgeon 

 in form and motion. A small meshed landing-net 

 may be used for its capture, and a long light stick 

 with which to touch the fish and cause it to dart into 

 the net will be found useful. A large sized zinc bait- 

 kettle should be provided to carry them in, and a 

 regular supply of fresh water and small red worms 

 furnished whilst they are kept. Loach of a very large 

 size are found in many of the rivers and tanks of 

 India, being in my opinion by far the most palatable 

 fresh- water fish I have taken in that country. 



Crabs and Lobsters. Hermit or Soldier Crab. 

 FAM., Canceridce. Pagurus Bemliardus. 



So called from its two most marked and well-known 

 habits, that of dwelling alone in a cell of its own 

 selection, and being at all times ready and willing to 

 decide by battle all disputes or difficulties in which 

 it may chance to become involved. Shells of various 

 kinds are inhabited by our pugnacious little friend 



