524 AMERICAN FISHES. 
is a superficial resemblance between them, resulting from similar elongation 
of the body and somewhat similar system of coloration; the resemblance, 
however, is entirely superficial. 
Some Murznids grow to a great size; it has been declared that they 
may even reach a length of thirty feet! They do occasionally attain a 
length of over ten feet and do not hesitate to attack man or beast who 
intrudes upon their lurking places, and they are held in dread by all. 
They are highly carnivorous and live chiefly on fishes. They still retain, 
though in a diminished degree, the favor of epicures, which they had in 
ancient times. 
Two species that occur along the coast of the United States are the 
Common Spotted Moray or Hamlet (Zycodontis moringa) of Florida and 
another (A/urena retifera) closely related to the European Moray, occurring 
off the coast of South Carolina in rather deep water and occasionally carried 
to the Charleston market. Along the Southern Californian coast another 
Moray (Lycodontis mordax) is to be found and is frequently taken to the 
market. 
