Page:British Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fresh-water Fishes.djvu/126

BRITISH FRESH-WATER FISHES The food consists of other fishes—a minnow is a splendid lure for a big Perch—as well as insects in various stages, molluscs, and worms. The favourite feeding-time in Summer is morning and evening, and it is interesting to notice how a shoal that has been under irritating observa tion all day suddenly comes on the feed. Spawning takes place in shallow water where there is a clean bed. The eggs are not shed singly, but the whole appear in the form of a band which the female cleverly contrives to attach to a weed or other object. The eggs hatch with comparative quickness, but it takes at least three years before the fish is advanced enough to propagate its species. Possessed of great tenacity, I have frequently noticed the length of time this fish will live out of water, and its boldness is such that many authentic stories might be told. The name is derived from the Latin Perca, a word of Greek origin which, literally translated, may be associated with the markings on the body.

Ruffe.—Acerina cernua (Fig. 6i). Also known as the Pope. Haunts canals, lakes, and other sluggish waters. I have found it very plentiful in various parts of the Grand Junction, or Bridgewater Canal, in Hertfordshire. It is of restricted distribution, and does not occur in either Scotland or Ireland. Very similar to the Perch, except that it is more greenish in colour, with markings of black or brown; has a smaller mouth; does not attain nearly such a large size, and the dorsal fins are practically joined together along the back. It moves about in shoals, and prefers deep water. Of inactive disposition, the 108