92 



THE SMALL-MOUTHED BASS 



Moreover, the general outlines of the two fish are seen, 

 on close inspection, to be quite dissimilar. 



The large-mouthed bass is broader and has a fiercer look- 

 ing eye; and its colouring is much lighter. This is true, 

 even in the .case of the young fry only a few months old. 



Its habits are the reverse of its small-mouthed brother. 



Head of Large- mouthed Bass 



It haunts the edges of ponds and lakes, lying amongst weed- 

 beds and in the mud, and seems to thrive in stagnant water, 

 although it ])robably would prefer clean water if food were 

 plentiful. .<-.... 



But it is a most voracious fish, and no doubt food is 

 its first consideration. 



In consequence, it will always be found close to shore, 



