FISHES. 
23 
excellent observer. He remarks that this same 
species evinces a sort of parental affection for 
its ova, as a bird for its nest, returning quickly to 
RIVER BULLHEAD. 
the spot, and being unv^illing to quit it when 
disturbed.” 
According to Fabricius, the male Lump Sucker, 
a British fish of grotesque form, but of brilliant 
colours, keeps watch over the spawn when laid by 
the female, and defends it with the utmost cou- 
rage. Even the ferocious and formidable Wolf- 
fish approaches the nest at the risk of his life, for 
the Sucker, though so much smaller, and far more 
feebly armed, is yet able to infix its teeth in its 
adversary’s throat, and inflict a mortal wound. 
If driven away by man, he does not go far, but is 
continually looking back, and soon returns. Our 
own fishermen in some respects confirm this 
account, and add that the young, when hatched, 
attach themselves to the sides of their careful 
