PLATE LXXV-L 
of a few recent examples of the fish, and shortly after, in compliance 
with our wishes, Mr. Montagu obliged us with five specimens of it, 
the whole of which, as they were observed to differ in a few slight 
particulars from each other, it was thought might afford us a more 
adequate conception of this beautiful species than any solitary speci- 
men. Among them were examples of the two sexes, and transitions 
of growth that are highly interesting. The whole arriving in excel- 
lent condition enabled us also to notice various circumstances that can 
only be observed in recent specimens. 
The largest of those fishes was selected for representation, and of 
which, it is presumed, the figure which exhibits both the upper and 
lower surface will convey a far more correct idea than any general 
description we can subjoin. This, however, it should be observed, 
was of a lighter colour than the rest, and had also the spots on the 
body more distinct. The others were more dusky r , or darker ; and 
two of them inclining to purplish brown, with minute inconspicuous 
spots : the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins were also of a brighter purplish- 
red in the deeper coloured specimens than in that we have represented. 
Sometimes specimens occur that have the tail barred with white. 
The most striking peculiarities, however, of those fishes at the first 
View, was the perfectly ocellated appearance of the two large distinct 
spots on the posterior part of the hind head, which Mr. Pennant, and 
after him Dr. Shaw, denominate semilunar marks; and the four 
conspicuous erect cirri, two of which are situated before each eye, 
but which both those writers term a single filament. The occellated 
spots are remarkable, and contribute much to the beauty, as well as 
singular appearance of the fish : each consists of a large obovate spot 
of a deep purple, inclosed within a broad pale brownish ring, and em- 
bellished in die center with a brilliant blue dor, or pupil. Generally 
