Page:Natural History, Fishes.djvu/275

Rh the whole length of the dorsal, the other that of the ventral edge of the body.

The scales are generally small; those of the Flounder, one of which is here represented, have the margin entire all round, or only slightly waved at the front edge, with no spines behind. The form is more or less round, and the appearance generally much resembles that of a scallop shell (Pecten). The concentric lines are coarse, and are divided by bands radiating from a point

behind the centre, which exhibit only transparent crystalline substance, without any trace of lines, even under a high magnifying power.

On the adaptation of the singular structure of the Pleuronectidæ to their habits, Mr. Yarrell has some interesting observations, which we shall take the liberty to quote. “The Flat-fishes and the various species of Skate are, by this depressed form of body, admirably adapted to inhabit the lowest position, and where they occupy the least space, among their kindred fishes. Preferring