330 
BROAD-NOSED EEL. 
Anguilla Latirostris. 
It seems probable that this species is as widely distributed 
as either of the others known among us; but it does not 
appear to be anywhere in large numbers. It has also been 
doubted whether its habits of migration, especially when young, 
are the same as those of the Sharp-nosed species; and yet when 
examining those little Elvers, or transparent young ones which 
have been found near the low-water mark, an example w'hich 
resembled the Broad-nosed Eel has been seen, as well as that 
which has been distinguished with a long and pointed snout. 
It has been noticed that those who trade in Eels have long 
been aware of a diffei'ence between the several kinds; and this 
Broad-nosed sort is t^uickly marked out by them as of inferi( r 
(quality for the table, W hen at liberty also these kinds usually 
keep separate from each other, although sometimes they are 
found mingled together in the same net. 
The present species is decidedly voracious in its appetite, and 
it is described as being more accustomed than the others to 
seize and feed on living fishes; but in general their habits in 
this respect are much the same. And as regards its description 
this kind will be best known by comparing it with the others; 
and especially with that which stands first in our enumeration; 
its most oliviuus difference being the broader and more blunt 
or rounded form of the head toward the snout; which difference 
was formerly believed to mark the distinction of sexes. Pennant 
also notices that the skin is thicker than the first-named; the 
gape somewhat larger; as are also the eyes, which are situated 
further back. The colour is an uncertain mark of difference 
in these fishes; but there is an appearance in this of a greater 
disposition to dusky or brown. 
