The Nematognathi, or Catfishes 179 
the sudden erection of the pectoral spines. None of these are 
found in Europe or in Japan. Of the very many American 
species the gaff-topsail catfish (Felichthys felis), noted for its 
Fic. 141.—Gaff-topsail Cat, Felichthys felis (L.). Wood’s Hole. 
very high spines, extends farthest north and is one of the 
very largest species. This genus has two barbels at the chin. 
Most others have four. The commonest sea catfish of the 
Carolina coast is Galeichthys milbertt. In Tachysurus the teeth 
Fic. 142.—Sea Catfish, Galeichthys milberti (Cuv. & Val.). Pensacola, 
on the palate are rounded, in most of the others they are in 
villiform bands. 
In most or all of the sea catfish the eggs, as large as small 
peas, are taken into the mouth of the male and there cared 
for until hatched. 
The Channel Cats.—In all the rivers of North America east 
of the Rocky Mountains are found catfishes in great variety. 
The channel cats, Ictalurus, known most readily by the forked 
tails, are the largest in size and most valued as food. The tech- 
