SCALE-KAYKD WRASS. 
39 
as 'Well as it could be done under tlie circumstances, by Mr. 
William Lauglirin, A.L.S., of Polperro, the specimen was handed 
over to the collection of the British Museum. 
dhe habits of this species are of course but little known; 
ut although probably local, it may, within its range, be as 
cmnmon as others of its family. It appears, however, that 
^ir resort is in deeper water than such as most species of 
lasses prefer; and if the Scale-rayed Wrass has been caught 
y fishermen who often seek their livelihood in its favourite 
districts, it is not likely that in general they would otherwise 
notice it than as something fitted to their individual use. On 
many occasions has the information reached me of the capture 
of fishes whicli, from the attention they excited, were evidently 
of uncommon occurrence, but which have afterwards been 
thrown aside, although at the same time a little reflection 
Would have called to the remembrance of these poor men 
t at the presentation of a rarity was certain to meet its 
reward. 
As some doubt has been thrown on the synonyms of this 
species, I regard it of importance to copy the notes which 
were made from the first specimen at the time of its capture, 
o w 1C I ivill add the further notes that were obtained from 
second example above referred to. Of the 
th “ihe specimen was twenty-two inches long, 
fourth^'^^T**" exclusive of the fins, two inches and a 
membraii plump and rounded. Head lengthened; lips 
lare- • teeth numerous, in several rows, those in front 
moie prominent, slightly incurved. Eye moderately 
gilf ' '^tenor plate of the gill-cover serrated; body and 
dp- '^ith large scales. Lateral line nearer the back, 
dor- 1 'vith a sweep opposite the termination of the 
twput thence backward straight. Dorsal fin with 
the sight soft rays; the luudmost portion of 
one f pectorals round, fourteen rays; ventrals six, 
scale A stout and firm: between these fins a large 
exntiTi 1 eight soft rays, the soft portion 
Qg .1 ^ round, fifteen rays. Between each of the rays 
’ anal, and caudal fins is a process formed of 
lb’'hter°^°^*^?^^ imbricated scales. Colour uniform light brown, 
o on tie belly; upper eyelid black; at the edge of the 
