142 



DR PARNELL'S ACCOUNT OF 



the sea bream, but its eye is smaller, its snout is longer, and the origin of the 

 lateral line is slightly bent. (See Plate VL) 



Pagellus centrodontus, Yarrell, vol. i. — Sea Bream. 



Specific Character. — Origin of the lateral line with a large dark spot. 



This is a common fish on the coast of Devon. It is frequently met with on 

 the coast of Essex ; but, as we approach the eastern shores of Scotland, it becomes 

 scarce. A few specimens are annually taken in the Frith of Forth, about the 

 month of July, sometimes with the hook, but more frequently in the salmon 



nets. • 



The principal distinguishing characters of this species are, the largeness of 

 its eye, and a conspicuous dark spot at the origin of the lateral line, over the 

 base of the pectorals. (See Plate Y I.) 



MuGiL CHELO, Yarrell, vol. i. — Thick-lipped Grey Mullet. 



Specific Character. — Upper lip thick and fleshy. 



Mr Couch of Cornwall is the only naturahst who has hitherto noticed the 

 thick-lipped grey mullet on the British coast. This species of mullet is common 

 on the east coast of Scotland, where the M. Capita is of rare occurrence. It is oc- 

 casionally taken the length of twenty-two inches. The flesh is held in low esti- 

 mation for the table. 



GoBius BiPUNCTATUS, Yarrell, vol. i. — Two-spotted Goby. 



Specific Character. — First dorsal fin with seven rays. 



This fish is frequently met with at the mouth of the Frith of Forth, swim- 

 ming about among fuci, particularly in rocky situations. (See Plate V.) 



GoBius GRACILIS, Jeuyus. — Slender Goby. 



Specific Character. — ^Last rays of the second dorsal fin longer than the first. 

 First dorsal fin with six rays. 



More common than the last species ; found inhabiting sandy situations. The 

 ventral and anal fins are always tinged with black ; the markings on the lateral 

 line are long and narrow ; the middle mark often extending the width of the 

 body. (See Plate V.) 



Crenilabrus tinca, Yarrell, vol. i. — Ancient Wrasse. 



Specific Character. — Base of the taU without a black spot. 



This species is common throughout the coast, frequenting rocky places. Its 

 flesh is white, soft, and insipid, seldom made use of as an article of food. It feeds 

 on Crustacea, and spawns about the end of April. 



