162 FISH CULTURE. 



deration should be exercised in acclimatising it. It 

 thrives well also in lakes, but does not object to a 

 strong current. It is said to be a much better eating 

 fish than the pike. 



The Mountain-mullet of Jamaica is perhaps one 

 of the most delicate and delicious edibles found 

 amongst fish. In Jamaica, the estimation it is 

 held in is so great, that a dish of mountain-mullet 

 is the common excuse for a rechercM dinner, and 

 a prominent inducement to guests to partake of 

 it ; and " Dine with me, old feUow ; I've a dish 

 of mountain-mullet," seldom fails to, produce the 

 invited guests at dinner-time. 



The mountain-mullet does not grow to a large size, 

 seldom exceeding two pounds weight, and not often 

 reaching that size. Inhabiting rapid rattling streams, 

 similar to Highland bums, endued with great leaping 

 and locomotive powers, it can make its way almost 

 anywhere, and over any reasonable obstacle. An eye- 

 witness assures me that he has seen one leap sheer 

 over the huge trunk of a fallen cotton-tree, which lay 

 like a bridge across the stream ; and although well 

 able. to hold its own in rough streams, it does well 

 enough when these streams are shrunk to mere water- 

 holes by the heats of summer. But, added to its 

 excellent and desirable edible qualities, it presents 



