THE GOLDFISH 27 



in the Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, where it will be 

 shown those interested. 



THE COMMON GOLDFISH 



The common Goldfish, being closely related to the original stock, 

 has most of its characteristics. It is very hardy, can withstand 

 extremes of temperatures if brought about gradually, can remain out 

 of water for several hours when kept moist, will eat almost any food, 

 is easily tamed and is a prolific breeder. The body is rather long and 



Fig. 15. The Common Goldfish (Carassius auratus) 



flattened on the sides. The head is short, wide, and without scales. 

 Names of the dififerent fins should here be carefully noted, as they are 

 frequentl}' referred to in other parts of this work. The Dorsal Fin 

 (on backj, the Caudal Fin (the tail) and the Anal Fin (small fin near- 

 est tail) are all single in the Common Goldfish. The Pectoral Fins 

 (nearest head) and Ventral Fins (nearer lower centre of body) are 

 paired. 



One of the easiest characteristics to fix in a breed is the lengthen- 

 ing of the body and fins. This brings us to a description of the first 

 of the fancy goldfish varieties or breeds. 



THE COMET GOLDFISH 



The Comet has been referred to as the Japanese Comet because it 

 is probably a "sport" from Japanese stock. Japanese experts have 

 assured us the breed is not recognized in their country and certainly 

 no considerable numbers of them have ever been imported from there. 



