OF FISHES. 
239 
ROACH. 
The Roach, in many of its habits, resem- 
bles the dace ; and though not so near the 
surface, is most generally found in the same 
waters. The back is of a greenish colour, 
and the belly-fins are of a bright red, like 
those of the perch; it seldom exceeds twelve 
inches in length; the scales are large; the 
tail is forked, and the anal fin contains 
twelve rays ; the back is sharply ridged, 
and very much elevated. It is very prolific. 
It possesses a peculiar delicacy of flavour, 
and has long been proverbial for the sound- 
ness of its flesh. 
