52 
FISHES. 
In the classification of the very numerous 
species of Fishes now known to naturalists, the 
system of Cuvier is generally adopted, either 
with or without modification in the subordinate 
divisions. One of the most recent arrangements 
is that of the Prince of Canino, who, taking the 
system of Cuvier as the basis, has made some 
improvements in the distribution of the Families.'^' 
The knowledge, skill, and erudition of this emi- 
nent zoologist are universally acknowledged ; and 
in these pages we propose to adhere to his ar- 
rangement. 
We divide the Class Pisces {Fishes) into four 
Orders, Acanthopterygii^ Malacopterygii, Plecto- 
gnathi, and CartilagineL 
* This learned zoologist has during the present year (1850) pub- 
lished another system of Fishes, in which lie has greatly multiplied the 
number of the Families ; but we prefer in this volume to adhere to 
his former arrangement. We shall, however, make use of this later 
publication, at least in estimating the number of species belonging to 
the different genera and families. 
