84 
Tanks No. 4, 10 and 14. 
Fig. 148. Serranus scriba, V 2 nat. size. Tank 14. 
generally where the water enters the tank, sometimes in an upright position 
with widely opened mouth and gill-cover, and seems to enjoy the stream 
of freshly aerated water which passes through its gills. When alarmed 
it takes refuge under 
some arch of the rocks 
and from there darts 
out on its prey with 
rapid and unerring 
aim. All its habits 
characterize a cautious, 
timid fish, loving safe 
hiding - places ; and 
with this view the 
observations of the 
fishermen agree. It 
is greatly valued and 
sought after in the 
Italian markets, go¬ 
ing by the name of 
" Cernia ”, and fetches 
good prices. — The 
small Lettered-per'ch, 
Serranus scriba 
(Fig. 148, tank No. 
Fig. 149. Apogon rex mullorum, Y 2 nat. size. Tank 4. 14), with a brilliant 
colouring, resembles 
in shape, though not in appearance, its larger relation. It has received 
its name from the marking like Arabic writing upon its gill-covers. We 
may also mention in this connection the fine rose-coloured Apogon 
(Fig. 149, tank 4). 
Much more lively than the "giant'’ Serranus is the Bass or Sea-dace, 
Fig. 150. Mugil cephalus, i /2 nat. size. Tank 16. 
Labrax lupus (Fig. 118 p. 67, tank 10). It is a predacious fish, oc¬ 
curring in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, and was well known at 
the Roman time. It attains a length of three feet and is one of the 
most delicate fishes in the market, where it is known as " Spinola ”. It 
is usually found near the coasts and sometimes proceeds some way up 
