22 CATECHISM OF 



Q, Is not the Sting Ray a formidable species ? 



A. Yes ; Raja Pastinaca, the Sting Ray, or Fire 

 Flare, is less than the species before mentioned, 

 but more formidable, from a very long, flattened, 

 and sharp-pointed spine on the tail, of a flinty 

 hardness, with which, though it is not venomous, 

 as the fishermen absurdly believe, it can inflict 

 very painful and severe wounds on those who in- 

 cautiously handle it. It is eaten, but is not in 

 great esteem. 



Q. Why is the next species called the Sea Devil ? 



A. Raja Diabolus, or the Sea Devil, is so called 

 from its generally hideous appearance, and from 

 its having a projection on each side of its head, 

 nearly two feet in length, resembling horns. It 

 is found chiefly about the Azores. 



Q. For what is the Torpedo principally remark- 

 able ? 



A. Raja Torpedo, the Torpedo, is principally re- 

 markable for its wonderful faculty of causing a 

 sudden numbness, or painful sensation in the limbs 

 of those who touch it. It is of a nearly circular 

 shape, perfectly smooth and of a reddish brown 

 colour on the upper part. If accidentally trodden 

 on while buried under the sand in shallow water, it 



Ven'omons, a. poisonous. 



