THE ATHERINE, 
258 , 
Genus LI — Alhe Atherine *,. 
*J[ ms tribe Ltnncvus has divided into two fpecies ; botit 
diftinguilhed by the flatnefs of the upper jaw, by a fil- 
very ftripe along the fides, and by having fix branchio- 
flegous rays. The atherine beft known on our coafls, is 
very common near Southampton, where it is called a 
fmelt. It is in feafon from March to the beginning of 
June, at which period it begins to fpawn. It never de~ 
ferts the place; but may be taken there at every feafon, 
excepting in hard froft. 
The alherine is from three to four inches in length ; 
and the body is femi-tranfparent, except where the fpine, 
or the vifccra intercept the rays of light. The Ihape of 
the body is oblong, and (lender ; the back ilra'.ght ; and the 
belly a little prominent. The belly is filvery ; the back 
variegated with blackilh coloured fpots, which become 
more diicernable after the feales are ftripped off. The 
mouth is large ; and its aperture, when the jaws are Ihut, 
feems to look upwards. The lips hang down : both jaws, 
as well as the palate, are befet with fmall teeth ; and up*, 
on the back are two dorfal fins. 
* Atherina Hefpetus, Lin. Syft. Pifcicutw Anguella V<pctiis 
Will, 
