Fishes of Massachusetts. 333 
jecting two lines beyond upper jaw. Eyes of mod- 
erate size: their diameter equal to one half the dis- 
tance between eyes. Nostrils directly in front of 
eyes: the posterior larger, situated obliquely beneath, 
and in front, of anterior inferior angle of eye: at the 
anterior inferior angle of this orifice, is situated the 
anterior nostril, which is very small and circular. 
Mouth of moderate size: lips fleshy: jaws filled 
with numerous, very small teeth: upper jaw the 
longer: a small fleshy cirrhus is suspended from 
chin. Preoperculum serrated at its posterior margin: 
more sparsely so, beneath. A small concealed spi- 
nous point is observed at posterior portion of oper- 
culum. Lateral line very distinct, curving with 
the body. 
The Dorsal fin arises just back of the pectorals ; 
its first ray is a minute spine: the second fleshy ray 
is much the longest of all; this ray is nearly twice 
as high as the length of the fin. The extremities of 
the rays are black. 
The second Dotsal is of the color of the abdomen ; 
of equal height throughout its entire length ; one 
sixth less high than long. It extends to within half 
an inch of caudal rays. 
The Pectorals are above black ; beneath, color of 
abdomen ; length less than one third their height. 
The Ventrals arise in front of posterior half of 
pectorals ; their general color like the pectorals; ex- 
tremities margined with white. 
The Anal fin is situated in the middle of the 
body ; longer than high; color of abdomen. 
