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NOTICES OF NEW BOOKS. 



Marvels of Fish Life as Revealed by the Camera. By Feancis 

 Ward, M.D., F.Z.S. Cassell & Co., Limited. 



We are familiar with the advance made in our knowledge of 

 ornithological bionomics by the use of the camera ; Dr. Ward 

 has now applied it to the even more difficult study of the lives 

 and methods of jQshes and other aquatic animals. This extended 

 use of the camera is only in its infancy, but the results are 

 already of the highest importance, and have added largely to 

 piscine lore. To observe properly and photograph fishes 

 " swimming free in natural environment," Dr. Ward has con- 

 structed a special pond into which he can turn his fishes. " In 

 one wall of the pond is a large open space, which communicates 

 with an observation chamber, and between this chamber and 

 the water in the pond is a sheet of plate-glass. Concealed in 

 the chamber the observer can watch the fish as they appear to 

 each other in the water. In consequence of the darkness in the 

 chamber and the light in the pond, the glass is converted into a 

 mirror, and the fish merely sees himself and his surroundings 

 reflected, while the observer can plainly see into the pond. It is 

 thus possible to observe a timid fish without disturbing him. 

 In addition, an instantaneous photograph can be taken of 

 moving fish under three feet of water." This is the method ; 

 the results are most informative and interesting, while a pro- 

 fusion of photo blocks fully illustrate the narrative. The author 

 has also used his camera in the shallow waters of the sea around 

 our shores, and has also given much information as to how fish 

 photography is to be pursued. 



Eigid and total abstainers will probably be somewhat shocked 

 at the instructions given to revive fish which may arrive half- 

 dead at the observatory, for, as is truly remarked, "many people 

 can catch fish, few know how to keep them alive." If other 

 means (advised) are insufficient to revive the fish, ** pour a little 



