Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 1 (1897).djvu/577

Rh the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' 'Transactions' in the years 1890–91 (pp. 227–30); 1891–92 (pp. 323–28); 1894–95 (pp. 114–17); 1895–96 (pp. 225–27); 1896–97 (pp. 293–95). "A Sketch of Yarmouth Fishes" also ran through the 'Naturalists' Chronicle' in 1896–97.

My best thanks are here tendered to Mr. T. Southwell, F.Z.S., of Norwich, for the ever-ready help he has afforded in identifying new species, and unravelling knotty points; indeed, it was greatly at his instigation that I have undertaken the task of working out the fishes of the district.

The following abbreviations will be helpful:—* my own additions to the local list; † additions to county list; C. common; R. rare; F. frequent; R.R. rather rare; A. accidental; (?) doubtful species; [ ] has a doubtful claim to Yarmouth list.

Gasterosteus aculeatus. Three-spined Stickleback. C.—Abundant, and generally alone inhabiting the ditches where found. Brackish water does not inconvenience it, and I have found it alive and strong in the refuse left by the draw-netters on the beach. It undoubtedly comes down involuntarily on the ebb, thousands being drawn through the sluice-gates opening from the marsh-ditches into the rivers. Variously armoured varieties occur. Local, "Stanickle"; male, "Redbreast."

* G. pungitius. Nine-spined Stickleback. C.—Shuns the society of the preceding species, which bullies it; generally but not always found by itself. Prefers entirely fresh water. Like G. aculeatus, is often spotted with the parasitic fish-louse, Argulus foliaceus. Local, "Tinker"; "Sweep."

G. spinachia. Fifteen-spined Stickleback. F.—Is frequently taken in summer in Shrimp-nets. Often found on Breydon; occasionally "nesting" there. Local, "Sawback."

Perca fluviatilis. Perch. C.—Numerous in the broads and rivers; often takes a bait in brackish water, on the verge of the "salts" coming up on the flood. It appears to be seeking the Shrimps which come with it. Is very partial to the Ditch Prawn, Palæmon varians. Hickling Broad, Reedham Ferry, and several other of its favourite haunts might be mentioned, but large specimens are much less frequently taken than formerly. It is said that the Anacharis weed has injuriously invaded many