CHROMIDES. 431 



in both jaws are one or two rows very much smaller, of the same 

 description, and separated by a short interspace from outer row. 

 Fins caudal slightly emarginate. Lateral line extending from ] 6 

 to 18 scales, or continued for about six scales further in the form 

 of a small round hole in each scale. Colour of a light green, with 

 eight transverse bands, the first over the occiput, the last across 

 the base of the caudal, the other six intermediate. Most of the 

 scales above lateral line have a central white pearly spot ; some 

 irregular black spots over the abdomen. Dorsal, caudal, ventral, 

 and anal of a dark leaden colour; the pectoral yellowish, with a 

 jet-black base. Specimens from salt water are of a deep purple 

 colour, the bands almost black, and the white spots consequently 

 more distinct. During the monsoon the colours of this fish are 

 most beautiful. Very young fish have a large black ocellus, sur- 

 rounded by a white margin, extending from fourth to tenth soft 

 rays of dorsal fin. 



Hob. Very common in the pieces of fresh and brackish water 

 along the coast of Malabar and on that of Corornandel as high as 

 Orissa ; also inland as high as the Wynaad on the western coast ; 

 likewise in Ceylon. This species is excellent eating, especially 

 when large, and grows to upwards of a foot in length. It takes a 

 bait freely. 



