328 
DUBLIN EEL. 
Anguilla Hihernica, 
Nobis. 
We have already noticed the likeness which the different 
species of Eels bear to each other, and the influence this has 
had in preventing those which are truly distinct from being 
at all times clearly separated from others. And to this another 
hindrance will be found in that proneness to variation in 
appearance which arises from variety of situation in regard to 
water and soil; to which we add, that even a close description 
of any one of the species is not always sufficient to enable an 
observer to decide concerning it, unless he has also brought 
it into comparison with others that are nearly allied. It is 
from these considerations that we feel some hesitation in 
coming to the decision that the Eel we are going to describe 
is a distinct kind from others which are regarded as natives 
of the British Islands; but on the other hand, after a near 
comparison with our other species, as well in reference to its 
general aspects, as also in regard to a difference in several 
particulars of form and proportions, the opinion that as a 
species it is distinct greatly preponderates; and we add also, 
that it appears closely to answer to the kind which Cuvier 
has designated with the name of A. longhec. 
The example described, and from which our figure was 
drawn, -was procured from the River Liffey through the 
kindness of R. Palmer Williams, Esq., and it will rest with 
the naturalists of that city, whose activity in the cause of 
science has already produced rich fruit, to decide further on 
the subject, as also to ascertain what peculiarity there may 
be noticed in its habits. Mr. Thompson says that he had 
observed an Eel from Strangford, which he supposed to be 
different from the recognised species of British Eels, but in. 
