SQTTAMIPINXES. 19 



interspinous membrane deeply notched, fourth spine highest; 

 anterior rays much the longest, but not quite equalling length of 

 4th spine; anal spines all about the same length, each alternate one 

 being the stronger; caudal fan-shaped, its central rays rather the 

 longest. Scales minute ; about 30 rows between 6th dorsal spine 



Fig. 6. Scatophagus argus. 



and lateral line. Colour purplish, becoming white on abdomen ; 

 large round blackish or greenish spots on the body, most numerous 

 along the back, and varying in size and tint, first dorsal brownish 

 blue, having a few minute spots ; second dorsal yellowish, with 

 slight brown markings between the rays. 



In the very young a bony ridge, ending in a spine, passes from 

 the eye above the opercle on to the shoulder. 



Hob. Indian Ocean, ranging to China and Australia, attaining a 

 foot in length. This fish enters backwaters and rivers, but is a foul 

 feeder, and, so far as I have observed, is not in request as food. 

 Hamilton Buchanan remarks of it that " when newly caught it is 

 a fish of great beauty, easy digestion, and excellent flavour ; but 

 after death it soon becomes soft and strong tasted." 



7. Genus EPHIPPUS, Cuv. 

 Syn. Selene, Lac6p. ; Marches, Cantor. 



Branchiostegals six ; pseudobranchiax Body much compressed 

 and elevated. Snout short, the upper profile parabolic. Preopercle 

 without a spine. No teeth on the palate. Dorsal with eight or 

 nine spines, several of which are flexible and elongate, all fire 

 receivable into a groove at their base ; interspinous membrane 

 deeply cleft, and a deep notch between the spinous and soft 

 portions of the fin ; three anal spines ; pectoral short. Scales of 



c2 



