736 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HLST. SOCIETY, Vol. XXIV. 



The next family of game fish of the Persian Gulf to which preference 

 must be given is the 



SCOMBRID^. 



Day divides this family into 5 genera of which we are concerned only 

 with the genus Cybium. This genus is again sub-divided by Day into 5 

 individual species of which two species at Jask can be included in the band 

 of surface-feeders. At the top of the branch of this genealogical tree is 

 written in letters of gold 



SxJEMAi, Cybium commersonii. 



This nomenclature, perhaps, may convey no subtle meaning to the lay- 

 mind even if he be a follower of the Gentle Art. For his enlightenment, 

 therefore, let us christen this Cybium by his common or household designa- 

 tion. The Surmai is the far famed " Seer " fish, a name which figures so 

 frequently on an up-country menu, and conjures up visions of muddy flabby 

 flesh which is a positive insult to the reputation of the pelagic Cybium 

 commersonii. The accompanying photograph depicts a 30 lb. Surmai, which 

 succumbed to the author's wiles ; it affords a good illustration of the comely 

 proportions of this magnificent game-fish. A short description of the Surmai 

 is appended for ready reference. 



SuRM.VT or Seee. Cybium commersonii. %0\h&- 



