72 GOLDFISH VARIETIES AND 
The Black-Nosed Dace is well rounded and full of body, the belly is 
clear white and the black band encircling the body is quite intense. 
It is perfectly harmless and will take almost any food. It is quite sub- 
ject to a parasite which embeds itself deeply in the sides of the fish, pro- 
Fic. 53. Bracx-Nosep Dace (Enlarged one-quarter) 
ducing an appearance that can best be described as looking like “fly- 
specks.” This is common to many of the small wild fishes, and while 
it is not known to have any serious results it is unsightly. Specimens 
free from the parasite should be chosen where possible. The usual 
length is from two to three inches. 
They have been known to survive in the aquarium for several years. 
THE STICKLEBACK 
Froebel, the writer of kindergarten fame, in telling the children of 
the civilized world the life story of the stickleback, has given great promi- 
Fic, 54. THe Stickresack (Enlarged twice) 
nence to this interesting little fish. The interest centres chiefly in the 
breeding habits. Sticklebacks are nest-builders. The male is architect, 
contractor and workman. He selects a suitable location, and by tireless 
efforts gathers together bits of plants, refuse, etc., and makes them into 
