The Chub. 481 
THE CHUB, (Cyprinus cepMus,) 
Is of a coarse nature, and full of bones ; it seldom ex- 
ceeds the weight of live pounds. The body is of an 
oblong shape, nearly round ; the head, which is large, 
and the back, are of a deep dusky green ; the sides 
silvery, and the abdomen white ; the pectoral fins are of 
a pale yellow, the ventral and anal ones red ; and the 
tail brown, tinged with blue at its extremity, and 
slightly forked. This fish frequents the deep holes of 
rivers, but in the summer, when the sun shines, it rises 
to the surface, and lies quiet under the shade of the 
trees, that spread their foliage on the verdant banks; 
but yet, though it seems to indulge itself in slumber, it 
is easily awakened, and at the least alarm dives rapidly 
to the bottom. Although a leather-mouthed fish, it takes 
every species of food, including small fish, the same as a 
trout, though it is not so voracious. In March and April 
this fish may be caught with large red worms ; in June 
and July, with flies, snails, and cherries ; in August and 
September, with cheese pounded in a mortar, mixed with 
saffron and butter. When the Chub seizes a bait, it 
bites so eagerly that its jaws are often heard to chop 
like those of a dog. It, however, seldom breaks its hold. 
and, when once struck, is soon tired. 
