SUMMARY 
81 
several feet in diameter near the shore and lay their eggs on 
these so-called “ beds.” These beds are guarded zealously 
by the males, who drive off or carry away crayfish and small 
fish which feed upon such eggs. In former times men sought 
for these “ beds ” and by dropping a baited hook caught the 
bass while defending their eggs. Fortunately this practice 
is now illegal. Generally, adult fish pay no attention to 
their young and in many cases they devour young of their 
own kind as quickly as fish of other sorts. 
SUMMARY 
The term vertebrate is given to all animals that have a 
backbone. All have gill slits, either while developing or as 
adults. Fish have scales and breathe by means of gills. 
Their eggs are usually laid in the water and receive no care 
from the parents. A few fish prepare a crude nest which 
they guard. 
QUESTIONS 
What are some of the structures that all chordates have? 
Why is the word vertebrate used? 
What are the common fishes near your home? 
What ones are sought for food? 
What is being done to keep up the supply of fish in your state ? 
What do fish eat? 
REFERENCES 
Fish Manuals of the U. S. Commission of Fish and Fisheries. 
Jordan, Fishes. 
Jordan and Evermann, American Food and Game Fishes. 
