16 



prepared casts of the food fishes of North America. The casts 

 are taken from fresh examples, and have been colored by an 

 expert, under the eye of a scientist. In most respects this method 

 of exhibiting fishes and reptiles is superior to any. 



The list of fishes thus offered embraces the names of 88 species, 

 and that of reptiles 14 species ; the cost being, when ready for 

 transportation, $727. This collection has been received, with the 

 exception of four fishes, which are very large, and require more 

 deliberate attention. All prove most excellent and important ac- 

 quisitions to our cabinets. 



During the year the collections of specimens in alcohol have 

 received special attention. The fishes and reptiles have been 

 carefully examined with reference to classification and nomen- 

 clature in accordance with present accepted forms. This work 

 has been completed, and permanent record made of the same. 

 Printed labels are being prepared for these collections, and the 

 specimens, both wet and mounted, will be presented for public 

 exhibition. 



The catalogue of fishes, as now completed, embraces the names 

 of 221 species of mounted specimens, and 194 in alcohol. The 

 88 species of casts of fishes, being representatives of North 

 American food fishes, added, makes a total of 403 species. 



Besides this summary the department has received large donations 

 during the year, which will be examined and classified in due time. 



Additional to this we have lately arranged to receive from the 

 U. S. Fish Commission, from time to time, examples of all the 

 fishes of this continent, both marine and fresh water. As this 

 implies large numbers, the specimens will be sent at intervals, in 

 certain groups, to enable a prompt and proper arrangement for 

 exhibition. 



At present, in the Department of Reptiles and Batrachians, there 

 are permanently recorded : reptiles, 349 species ; of batrachians, 

 72 species. Besides, numerous specimens of both groups have 

 been received during the year as gift, and by purchase. 



In the Department of Invertebrate Zoology much valuable 

 material has been added. 



Through the Smithsonian Institution, two cases containing 

 invertebrates have been received. These consist of a share of 

 the valuable results of the deep-sea dredgings by the U. S. S. 

 " Albatross," under the management of the Fish Commission. 

 The collections largely embrace objects new to science, ranging 

 from mollusca, crustaceans, through the several lowest branches of 

 the animal kingdom — all of intense interest and value to students 

 of invertebrate zoology, as well as highly curious to the passing 

 visitor. 



Among the more valuable gifts received during the year are 

 seven glass-covered preparations of crustaceans, including promi- 



