18 How Sammy Went to Coral-Land 
in position and number according to the 
fish, the most important ones are the 
Dorsal fin, which stands straight up 
from the back, the Caudal fin, which is 
in the end of the tail, and the Pectoral 
fins, which are at the sides and take the 
place of feet in animals. 
These fins all help to make the fish 
the splendid swimmers that they are, and 
are large and strong, or small and weak, 
according to which part of the water the 
fish inhabits. If he prefers the surface 
of the ocean, or a large body of water, 
his fins must be large enough, and strong 
enough to battle against fierce waves, and 
strong tides, while the fish who lives far 
below where the water is more calm finds 
his weaker fins ample for his needs. The 
long, oval body which most fishes possess 
is another great help in gliding rapidly 
through the water. 
