BEAUTIFUL FISH. 231 
ridge is a flat prominent spine, directed backwards. The color 
is quite changeable; it is usually of a bluish cast, with brown 
spots and marks. It isaslow swimmer, and is often seen rest- 
ing on the bottom. It will live several hours out of water with- 
out undergoing any apparent change, but when returned to the 
water, it is at first unable to sink to the bottom on account of 
the air it has absorbed. Its pectoral fins are constantly in mo- 
tion, apparently for the purpose of fanning a current of water 
through the gills. Its flesh is of a light color, and its appear- 
ance and taste is like the breast of a chicken. It is best baked, 
but is said to be at times poisonous. 
The Squirrel fish is very beautiful. Its color is scarlet, and in 
brightness exceeds that of the gold fish. Its body is elongated 
and slightly compressed. Its head is well proportioned, and has 
prominent spines. Itswims quickly and vivaciously. The local 
name refers to a noise uttered by it which resembles the bark 
of a squirrel. It is very common in the Bahamas, and is usually 
the angler’s first prize. It is little valued as a table fish on ac- 
count of its small size. 
The Hind isa very common and very handsome fish, and some- 
times attains a length of eighteen inches. It is of a brownish or 
rosy-white color, and is marked with numerous deep rose-red 
spots. Being very voracious, it is easily caught. Its flesh is 
finely flavored, and is seldom, if ever, poisonous. 
The Blue fish is from ten to eighteen inches long, and weighs 
about two pounds. Its color is ultramarine, with a few pink 
marks about the head and eyes. Catesby says the iris of its 
eyes isred. Its scales are relatively large, and are used in the 
manufacture of fancy work. 
-The Bone jish has scales which are used in making the most 
exquisite fancy work. The scales, after being washed in several 
waters, are cut into the desired shape, and pierced in two places 
