374 
A MERICA N FISHES. 
and its presence is made known by its frequent leaps from the water. It 
is said that the Mullet has long been known at San Diego, but that it first 
made its appearance at San Pedro in 1877. It is not well known either at 
Santa Barbara or Soquel, although occasionally taken at both places. 
Those fishermen who have given the matter any attention assert that the 
Mullet is gradually extending its range northward. It feeds on mud and 
minute organisms contained in it. It is considered a good food-fish when 
taken from the ocean. In the muddy lagoons it acquires in summer a 
rank flavor. ’ ’ 
The Mullet of America compared to the Grey Mullet of Europe, must 
be carefully distinguished from the Mu Hus of classical literature. 
THE RED MULLET OF EUROPE. 
This fish, the Red Mullet or Surmullet of modern nomenclature was the* 
fa\ onte of the gourmets of ancient Athens and Rome. It was brought 
living into the banquet hall, that the guests might admire the brilliant 
change of coloi exhibited in its expiring struggles. There are two or three 
related species in our waters, one of which Upeneus flavovittatus , the Goat- 
fish, is occasionally captured in New England. 
