424 
Fishes. 
THE THOKNBACK, (Raia clavata,) 
Resembles the Skate in its general appearance ; the prin- 
cipal difference consists in the latter having sharp teeth, 
and a single row of spines upon the tail, while the former 
has blunt teeth, and several rows of spines both upon 
the back and tail. A Thornback was caught near the 
island of St. Kitt's, in the year 1634, which measured 
twelve feet in length, and nearly ten in width. It is 
sometimes eaten in England, but as its flesh is inferior 
to that of the Skate, it is generally sold at a low price. 
The young ones, however, which have the denomination 
of Maids, are delicate eating. 
