480 Fishes, 
The smallest fish are preferred, not only from their 
being the most beautiful, but because a greater number 
of them can be kept in a small circumference. These 
are of a fine orange red colour, appearing as if sprinkled 
over with gold-dust. Some, however, are white, like 
silver ; and others white, spotted with red. 
When Gold-fish are kept in ponds, they are often 
taught to rise to the surface of the water at the sound of 
a bell, to be fed. 
THE GUDGEON, (Cyprinus gobio,) 
A well-known fresh-water fish, generally found in 
gentle streams, on gravelly scours. The average length 
of this fish is from six to eight inches, and its weight 
is from two to three ounces. The back is brown, the 
abdomen white, and the sides tinged with red ; the tail 
is forked. It is beautified with black spots both on the 
body and tail. Gudgeons spawn early in summer, and 
feed upon worms and aquatic insects. Their flesh is 
white, of excellent flavour, and easy of digestion. In the 
months of September and October these fish are taken 
in the rivers of some parts of the Continent in great 
abundance ; and the markets are well supplied with 
them. They are not uncommon in the river Thames, 
where persons are frequently to be seen fishing for them 
from punts. As these fish bite with great eagerness, 
large numbers are often taken in this manner. They 
are also caught in nets, as well as with hooks and lines. 
