SPINY-RAYED FISHES. 



Fig-. 56. 



[Case 13.1 



Sea-wolf (Anarrhichas lupus). 



the northern seas, occurring plentifully on our northern coasts. 

 Of late years it is frequently to be seen in the London market, its 

 flesh being firm and well-flavoured. A stuffed specimen and 

 skeleton are exhibited in a table-case. 



The Trachypterida, or Ribbon-fishes, are true deep-sea fishes, 

 met with in all parts of the oceans, generally found when floating 

 dead on the surface or thrown ashore by the waves. Their body 



Fur. 57. 



Ribbon-fish (Regalecus gladius). 



is like a band, specimens of from 15 to 20 feet long being 10 to 

 12 inches deep, and about an inch or two broad at their thickest 

 part. The bones contain very little bony matter, are very porous, 

 thin and light. A few specimeus are exhibited on the top of 

 Cases 13 and 16. 



The Acronuridce, or Sea-Surgeons (Case 14), are inhabitants of 

 the tropical seas, and most abundant on coral-reefs. They feed 

 either on vegetable substances or on the superficial animal matter 

 of corals. The best known are Acanthurus, readily recognized by 

 the sharp lancet-shaped spine with which each side of the tail is 

 armed. When at rest the spine is hidden in a sheath ; but it can 



