Page:Natural History, Fishes.djvu/246

232 are permanent residents in fresh waters. The flesh of all is unrivalled among fishes for excellence and flavour, and is in the best condition just before spawning; after that operation has been performed, it is poor, watery, and insipid. The migratory species display indomitable energy and perseverance in overcoming the various barriers that oppose their ascent, leaping over rocks and up cascades of astonishing height. It has been ascertained that individual fishes return year after year to their native stream, almost invariably.

The noblest species is our well-known Salmon,

(Salmo salar, .), of which magnificent specimens crowd every fishmonger’s table throughout the summer season. It attains a great size and