A 693,762 L j MUSEUM TL 70 DUPL THE - VOW Lgj Algg! I!?gi!guptiv ' int eJg....... CIE.v JIB OTHE MUSEUM Museums 6L 7M Ns-- /2J" C 0jj z~ 01 0 z Guide TO THE New York Aquarium BY CHARLES HASKINS TOWNSEND Director Illustrated from photographs of living specimens made in the Aquarium by E. R. Sanborn, F. W. Hunt, and others PUBLISHED BY THE NEW YORK ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY 101 PARK AVENUE, NEW YORK 1925 FIRST EDITION, 1919-16,oo000 SECOND EDITION, 1925-20,000 Copyright, i9rp, 1925 NEW YORK ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY INTELLIGENCER PRINTING COMPANY LANCASTER, PA. CONTENTS T he Aquarium,. management, methods, etc.................... The Collections........................................... 12 -Vertebrates: Fresh-Water Fishes...................................... 16 Marine Fishes.......................................... 41 Turtles................................................ 102 Crocodiles and Alligato~rs................................ 113 Aquatic Serpents....................................... 114 Frogs................................................. 114 Salamanders............................................ 116 Seals and Sea Lions..................................... 121 Manatees.............................................. 124 Porpoises and Whales................................... 127 Beavers............................................... 128 w~ivertebrates: Crabs and Lobsters.................................... 129 Starfishes and Sea Urchins............................... 137 Jellyfishes, Anemones and Corals......................... 138 Shellfish............................................... 142 Mosquito Hatching Exhibit............................... 145.3alanced Aquaria...................................... 146 3'ishes for Small Aquaria.......................... 0...... 147 rPhe Care of Small Aquatic Animals: Small Fresh-Water Aquaria............................. 152 Turtles and Small Alligators............................. 156 Small Salt Water Aquaria.............................. 158 Salamanders and Frogs........................... 162 ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE AQUARIUM BUILDING PAGE Interior.................Frontispiece Service Gallery.............. 10 Exterior 8 FRESH-WATER FISHES 36 Black Bass................ Blue Catfish................. 20 Blue-nosed Sunfish........... 34 Bony Gar................... 18 Bowfin..................... 19 Brown Trout................. 28 Bullhead................... 20 Burbot..................... 41 Butterfly................... 149 Catfishes.................... 20 Chain Pickerel.............. 31 Channel Catfish.............. 20 Chub Sucker............... 22 Climbing Perch............... 147 Crappie..................... 37 Dog Fish....................19 European Rudd.............. 26 Fresh-water Drum........... 40 Fresh-water Cusk............ 41 Gars...................... 18 Goggle-Eye.................. 35 Golden Shiner............... 25 Goldfish.................... 24 Grass Bass.................. 36 Green Pike.................. 31 Half Moon................... 148 H t-ned Pout................ 20 Hqrny Chub.....-.......... 22 Jack....................... 31 Lake Bass................... 40 Lake Sturgeon............... 17 Ling....................... 41 Long-eared Sunfish.......... 33 Mudfish..................... 19 Muskallunge................ 32 Oswego.................. 36 Paradise Fish............... 150 Pearl Roach.................. 26 Pickerel................... 31 Pike Perch................... 38 Quillback.................... 23 Rainbow Trout.............. 29 Red-Eye................... 35 Roach..................... 25 Rock Bass................... 35 Rudd...................... 26 Salmon Trout............... 29 Short-nosed Gar.............. 18 Spotted Catfish.............. 20 Sturgeon................... 17 Sacker................... 21 Sunfish.................... 33-34 Trouts....................... 28-29 Wall-Eyed Pike...........3... 38 White Bass.................. 40 Whitefish................... 30 Yellow Perch............. 39 MARINE FISHES Angel-fishes................ 82-83 Angler..................... 99 Basses................... 60-61 Bellows-fish................ 99 Bermuda Chub.............. 73 Black Margate............... 70 Blackfish...... 78 PAGE Black Angel-fishe.fih....83 Blue Angel-fish............... 82 Blue-striped Grunt........... 68 Butterfly Fish............... 85 Chub...................... 73 Codling.................... 98 Coney....................... 60 Crabeater.................... 57 Cowfish.................... 89 Crevalle.................... 55 Cunner.................... 79 Doctor Fish.................. 86 Drumfish................... 75 Eel-Pout.................... 95 Fishing Frog................ 99 Four-Eyes.................. 84 French Angel-fish............ 83 Goose-fish................... 99 Grass Porgy.................. 72 Gray Snapper............... 66 Groupers................ 42-58-62-63 Grunts..................... 68-69 Happy Family of Fishes...... 100 Hogfish.................... 77 Horse-Head................ 54 Jewfish..................... 42 Leather Jacket............. 87 Long-Spined Sculpin......... 92 Look Down................. 54 Margate.................... 70 Minnow....................... 50 Moonfish................... 54 Morays.................... 46 Mullet.................... 51 Mutton Fish................ 9. Muttonfish................ 66 NassauI Grouper.............. 62 Ocean Sunfish................ 91 Parrots.................... 80-81 Perch...................... 62 Pinfish..................... 71 Porgy....................... 72 Porkfish.................... 71 Prickly Skate................ 43 Pudding Wife............... 79 Puffer.................... 90 Queen Triggerfish........... 88 Rabirubia.................. 64 Radiograph of Butterfly Fish. 85 Rainbow Parrot-fish.......... 80 Red Grouper................ 63 Red Parrot-fish............... 81 Red Snapper................. 65 Red-winged Sea Robin..... 96 Rockfish................ 61.... Runner.................... 56 Sailor's Choice.............. 71 Sand Shark.................... 43 Sandfish.................... 94 Scamp..................... 59 Schoolmaster................ 68 Sculpin.................... 92 Sea Bass.................... 60 Sea Horse.................. 51 Sea Raven................... 93 Sea Robin.................. 96 Sergeant Major......... 76 Shark Sucker..... 97 Sheepshead....-, 74 Sheepshead Mintlk.w... S ILLUSTRATIONS PAGE Skate....................... 43 Snappers..................65-66-67 Spadefish................. 82 Spot Snapper............... 67 Spotted Codling............. 98 Squirrel-fish................ 53 Sticklebacks................ 50 Striped Bass................ 61 Stargeons.................. 45 Sunfish..................... 91 Tautog..................... 78 Ten-Pounder............... 48 Tiger Rockfish................ 63 Toadfish..................... 94 Tom Tate................... 70 Trigger-fish................. 88 Trunk-fish.................. 88 Yellow-fin Grouper........... 58 Yellow Grunt................ 69 Yellowtail...:.......... 64 W hite Perch................ 62 TURTLES Atlantic Green Turtle.... 111 Blanding's Turtle............ 104 Box Tortoise................ 106 Diamond-back Terrapin..... 107 Giant Snapping Turtle..... 101 Hawksbill or Tortoise-shc Turtle..................... 10 Leatlierback Turtle.......... 111 Matamata Turtle............. 109 Muhlenberg's Turtle......... 108 Snapping Turtles............ 101-103 Soft-Shelled Turtle........... 104 Spotted Turtle............... 108 W ood Turtle................ 105 ALLIGATORS AND CROCODILES A lligator................... 112 Crocodile................... 113 FROGS Bull Frog..............o.. 114 Leopard Frog........ c.**Q1o 115 PAGE SALAMANDERS Axolotl or Spotted Salamander 119 Blind Salamander............ 118 Hellbender................. 116 M ud Puppy................. 117 N ewts..................... 120 Siren or Mud Eel............ 119 MAMMALS-Seals, Sea Lions, Manatees and Porpoises Dolphin.................... 128 Elephant Seal............... 124 Fur Seal.................... 122 Harbor Seal................. 123 M anatee................... 125-126 Porpoises................... 125-127 Sea Lion.................... 121 West Indian Seal............ 122 INVERTEBRATES-Crabs, Lobsters, Jellyfishes, Anemones, Corals, Shellfish, Mosquito larvae Anemones................... 140-146 Blue Crab................... 133 Channelled Whelk........... 142 Coral...................... 140 Crayfish.................... 136 Horseshoe Crab.............. 129 Jellyfish..................... 139 Lobster.................... 135 Locust Lobster.............. 134 Mantis Shrimp.............. 131 Mosquito Larvae............. 145 Octopus.................... 141-143 Portugese Man-of-War....... 139 Sea Soldier................. 132 Shipworm.................. 144 Spider Crab................. 130 Spiny Lobster............... 134 Starfish.................... 137 Tubularia.................. 140 Whelk...................... 142 BALANCED AQUARIA....... 146-151 ELECTRIC PUMPING EQUIPMENT IN THE NEW YORK AQUARIUM Nrum fork Zoologiral nriety President MADISON GRANT First Vice-President Second Vice-President FRANK K. STURGIS HENRY D. WHITON CORNELIUS R. AGNEW, Treasurer, 22 William Street WILLIAM WHITE NILES, Acting Secretary, 27 Pine Street FARMER'S LOAN & TRUST COMPANY, Assistant Treasurer EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MADISON GRANT, Chairman WILLIAM WHITE NILES PERCY R. PYNE FRANK K. STURGIS ANTHONY R. KUSER HENRY D. WHITON HARRISON WILLIAMS HENRY FAIRFIELD OSBORN, JR. GEORGE D. PRATT CORNELIUS R. AGNEW, Ex-Officio. GENERAL OFFICERS WILLIAM T. HORNADAY, Director, Zoological Park CHARLES HASKINS TOWNSEND, Director, New York Aquarium GEORGE S. HUNTINGTON, Prosector H. DE B. PARSONS, Consulting Engineer H. C. RAVEN, Associate Prosector R. L. CERERO, Bursar OFFICERS OF THE AQUARIUM CHARLES HASKINS TOWNSEND, Director Louis L. MOWBRAY, Chief Aquarist CHARLES M. BREDER, JR., Aquarist lDA M. MELLEN, Aquarist and Secretary JAMES C. MOORE, Chief Engineer MARVIN C. FENSTEMAKER, Clerk. THE NEW YORK AQUARIUM Showing new third story at front of building (Reproduced from the architect's drawing) k/ V THE WELL-BOAT SEAHORSE A power and sail vessel 35 feet long, used in collecting fishes for the Aquarium. It has a water compartment for carrying fishes alive, a variety of nets and berths for four men. THE AQUARIUM EQUIPMENT AND METHODS The Aquarium is situated in Battery Park t the foot of Broadway and is reached by all elevated, surface and subway lines running to South Ferry. The nearest elevated station is Battery Place; the nearest subway station Bowling Green. The building is open free, every day in the year. It is closed on Monday forenoons, except to school teachers with their classes, and to members of the New York Zoological Society. When a holiday occurs on Monday the public is admitted as on other days. The hours for visitors are: 9 a. m. to 5 p. m., AprilSeptember; 10 a. m. to I p. m., October-March. The New York Aquarium is probably the largest of all aquariums, containing a greater number of species and of specimens than any other institution of its kind. It has seven large floor pools, ninety-four large wall tanks and thirty smaller tanks. There are also twenty-six large reserve tanks containing specimens not on exhibition. The building is circular in form, with a diameter of two hundred and five feet. The largest pool is thirty-seven feet in diameter and seven feet deep. The Aquarium is equipped for heating sea water for tropical fishes in winter and has a refrigerating plant for cooling fresh water in summer. An air compressor furnishes aeration to all tanks when necessary. Flowing fresh water is supplied from the city water system, while the pumps circulate about 300,000 gallons of salt water daily. The pumps run continuously. Brackish water for the large floor pools is pumped from the bay through a well under the building, being filtered before it is used. The salt-water wall-tanks are supplied from a reservoir adjacent to the building, holding 100,000 gallons of pure, stored sea water. This water, originally bronght from the sea by a tank steamer, is used as a "closed circulation," and has been uised without change, except for small additions, since 1907. The water is pumped through the exhibition tanks, falling K4,-.iF I) I) 0a 0 '0 0l 0 03 61 V 0 V V c, 61 0 c0 LI I-.. 1/ GUIDE BOOK 11 thence through sand filters, back to the reservoir. The supply pipes to all tanks are vulcanized rubber. The drainage pipes from the salt-water tanks to the reservoir are iron pipes, lead lined. The fish hatchery, maintained chiefly as a fish-cultural exhibit, produces yearly several millions of young food and game fishes, which are afterwards deposited in New York State waters. Fish eggs for its operation are supplied from the hatcheries of the United States Bureau of Fisheries. There is a laboratory containing many kinds of small marine invertebrates which is visited by about 5,000 school children with their teachers during the year. The laboratory is used at times by specialists in the high schools and universities of the City for marine biological investigations, and contains equipmentfor such work. The library attached to the Director's office consists of about 1,000 volumes, and is confined to works relating to fishes, fishculture, fishery industries, angling and aquatic life in general. The collection of pamphlets on similar subjects is a large and valuable one. The Aquarium published annual reports, occasional bulletins, and the New York Aquarium Nature Series, consisting of books and pamphlets on aquatic life. All of these are issued as publications of the New York Zoological Society. The Aquarium was established by the City on December 10, 1896, and on November 1, 1902 its management was transferred to the New York Zoological Society under the Department of Parks of the City of New York. The Society is a scientific association with a subscription membership in 1925 of 2,725. The Director of the Aquarium and other officers appointed by the Society direct the institution and its employes, and are responsible for the public convenience and welfare, and for the work in the schools. The annual maintenance fund of the Aquarium, minimum $45,000, is provided by the City, all its exhibits being supplied by the Society. The attendance has always been remarkably large, amounting, for the twenty-eight years ending December 31, 1924, to over fifty-four millions of visitors, or more than five thousand a day. 12 NEW YORK AQUARIUM Th AcAuarium building was erected in 1807 by the United States Government as a fort, called West Battery, and after the War of 1812 was called Castle Clinton. In 1823 the building was ceded by Congress to the City of New York and used as a place of amusement called Castle Garden. It was connected with Battery Park by a bridge, the intervening space having since been filled in. General Lafayette was received here in 1824; Louis Kossuth in 1851; Professor Morse demonstrated here in 1835 the use of the Morse telegraphic code and Jenny Lind began singing here in 1850. The building was used as a landing place for immigrants from 1855 to 1890, during which period 7,690,606 immigrants passed through its doors. THE COLLECTIONS It is not the purpose in this guide to the collections of the New York Aquarium to refer to all of the many forms of aquatic life that have been exhibited since its inception, but rather to those which most frequently may be seen here. The space for living exhibits being limited to about one hundred tanks and pools, the visitor cannot expect to find at any one time more than a fair proportion of the species herein described. The exhibits change to some extent in character with the mere change of seasons. Migratory fishes that are to be found along our shores in summer may not only disappear in winter, but fail to survive the change of temperature when retained in the tanks of the Aquarium. On the other hand, northern species appearing in late autumn and captured for winter exhibition, may not survive the higher water temperature of the following summer. While the Aquariumn is equipped with both heating and cooling systems for its water supply, it is not prepared to provide ideal conditions for all forms of aquatic life throughout the year. Such arrangements could be made, but they would necessitate extensions in the mechanical department at the expense of space devoted to exhibits. It sometimes happens that species of moderate interest are sacrificed to make room for new arrivals of special interest. Experience has shown also the desirability of retaining as per GUIDE BOOK 13 manent exhibits many hardy species well adapted to the conditions of captivity, rather than others of delicate organization requiring special foods or extra care. During the twenty-two years that the Aquarium has been open to the public more than three hundred and fifty different kinds of fishes have been exhibited. These have included one hundred and eighteen fresh-water species, one hundred and twenty-nine tropical marine species, and one hundred and eleven northern marine species. The records of the Aquarium show that these have been the larger and more conspicuous kinds, little effort having been made to exhibit the very small fresh-water species, or the great variety of foreign fishes available for keeping in small table aquaria. This has been due to the lack of suitable space in the building for the maintenance of small aquaria which required special treatment. The large stationary, glass-fronted exhibition tanks, of which the Aquarium has ninety-four, have therefore been stocked with showy tropical fishes and the food and game species which seem to be of the greatest interest to visitors. It has, moreover, been necessary to reserve space for some of the more conspicuous or important invertebrates. By arranging suitable combinations, it has usually been possible to exhibit about two hundred different kinds of fishes at one time. While ideal conditions have been lacking, and many desirable forms omitted, the number and variety of fishes regularly exhibited is still much greater than in any other aquarium. The total number of specimens of fishes kept in the Aquarium, exclusive of young fry in the troughs of the hatchery, usually exceeds five thousand. With the character of the exhibits varying considerably from month to month, it is not practicable to describe the inmates of the Aquarium by their groupings in the exhibition tanks which are subject to change, but rather to refer to them by species, leaving the visitor to identify them by their illustrated labels. This is a simple matter, as the marine and fresh-water species are located on opposite sides of the building. Certain fishes or other aquatic forms too large for the glass-fronted tanks, are distributed among the seven large pools located on the floor of the Aquarium. Zoological arrangement of species 14 NEW YORK AQUARIUM in the tanks is not practicable, as it involves considerable shift. ing of specimens, which is harmful. Visitors on entering the building will find it advantageous to keep to the right, both on the main floor and balcony, as that is the general direction in which the crowd moves. Strange as it may seem, the collection of showy tropical fishes in the Aquarium is more easily maintained than the fresh-water or marine fishes of local waters. This is not because they endu->c- captivity better, but because they can be transported more cheaply and safely. Five hundred good-sized fishes can be brought by steamer from Florida or Bermuda at less cost and with less loss of specimens in transit than half that number by rail. Transportation by sea is cheap, and shipping tanks can be supplied with flowing sea water during the voyage by mechanical means. Fishes can be transported only in their natural element and with enough.of it to insure its continued purity. In shipments by rail, expressage has to be paid not on the number of fishes brought in, but on the heavy tanks of water containing them. Whether fishes are transported by sea or land, they must be "personally conducted" in order that proper aeration of the water may be maintained every hour of the day and night while in transit. The exhibits in general are representative of the aquatic life of the adjacent northeastern states and the Atlantic coast region from iNew York to Florida. Collections from the western states and foreign countries are seldom acquired for reagons connected chiefly with expense. Many of the tropical fishes in the Aquarium have the capacity for making instantaneous changes in color or markings. The color cells of the inner skin are under the nervous control of the fish, which may change color at any moment. Some species have several distinct color phases, -ll of which may be assumed within a few moments. The visitor can detect, the changes best by observing some individual fish for a short time,, rather than by permitting the eye to wander rapidly from one specimen to another. The length' of life of fishes in captivity is dependent upon m.any thi gr. Years ago, when the tanks of the Aquarium holding marine fishes were filled with brackish and sewag'e G.UIDE BOOK laden water, pumped from the harbor, the exhibits could be maintained only by constant collecting. After a reservoir had been built and filled with pure sea water from the open ocean, the annual losses were reduced by half. Some species are hardy and live many years in the Aquarium while others are difficult to provide for. The food of fishes in captivity is necessarily somewhat different from that which they find in nature. For many of the southern and even tropical fishes which come to our shores in summer, we are indebted to the Gulf Stream, the mighty river of the ocean flowing northward along the Atlantic Coast. Its warm, sweeping current is a potent influence in the distribution of marine life. It is not easy to write biographies of all our fishes. The ways of native species have been studied to some extent and many interesting facts have been recorded. Of tropical fishes we know less. The standard books inform us as to their geographic distribution, size and commercial importance, but contain little relating to their habits. The scientific names following the common names will probably be regarded as quite unnecessary. No doubt they are to most persons, but they are necessary, to classification and the student has need of them. A fish may have a different common name in each state or region in which it is found, while the language of science is universal. The collection of frogs, salamanders and fresh-water turtles in the Aquarium has never been large, owing to the limitations of the building. These cold-blooded animals require the warmth of summer. Winter sends them all into retirement or torpidity. Most of them in captivity are benefited by being kept where sunlight can reach them, and at present this is not possible. The very large salamanders are hardy enough to endure the flowing fresh water supplied to the exhibition tanks from the City water system the year round. The keeping of alligators is not difficult as long as the temperature of the water is maintained at about eighty degrees. They do not feed freely except when actually warm. Seals, manatees and porpoises have been kept at the Aquarium with varying degrees of success. These large lung-breath' ers cannot be provided with sufficient pure air in winter when 16 NEW YORK AQUARIUMl the building is heated, and as most of them require more room for exercise than is available, they are not adapted to continuous indoor life. The collection of invertebrates is not large, owing to the lack of a cold sea-water system. Only the more conspicuous and hardy forms are therefore considered here. For a general account of the marine invertebrates of the region about New York, the visitor is referred to an illustrated work published by the Aquarium, entitled Sea Shore Life. A list of publications of the New York Zoological Society relating to the collections of the Aquarium will be found on the last page of this guide. FRESH-WATER FISHES LAMPREYS-Petromyzonidae. The lampreys are smooth-skinned, eel-shaped fishes, with nearly circular mouths. The majority attach themselves to fishes by suction, and feed by scraping the flesh with their rasp-like teeth. The Brook Lamprey (Lampetra wilderi) is usually less than eight inches in length. It is confined to fresh waters and ascends small streams at spawning time, often in great numbers, clinging by suction to rocks in climbing rapids. This species is not known to be destructive to other fishes as are the larger kinds of lampreys. PADDLE-FISHES--Polyodontidae. The Paddle-fish (Polyodon spathula) is not adapted to life in captivity, the elongated upper jaw, called the paddle, having a very sensitive tip and being subject to serious injury. It is sometimes 15 inches in length. Specimens of this fish received at the Aquarium have lived but a few days. A six-foot individual weighed 150 pounds. It is found only in the Mississippi and its tributaries. Valued for its flesh and its roe, which is made into caviar. STURGEONS-Acipenseridae. The Lake Sturgeon (Acipenser rubicundus) is our largest fresh-water fish, sometimes reaching a length of nine feet. It was formerly very abundant in the Great Lakes, and being then of little commercial importance, enormous numbers were wasted. It has now become scarce from over-fishing, and, not GUIDE BOOK 17 ---~-~c-~---r-~cl~.2~c -~---~~-----1----~~J~=~: ~'rr-cZ~~~ Ezl.~,,B~-"?~ z -i-i.d-:~~~ -i:~::~t~, ~~;:;.::I ' ' -::::: -.F.:. ~ ~l.i.:~~ - I;ii- ~,?.; I:,--:::::-: ~;: ~. i - ~ ~1;::-: i: ~~ ~:II~Si.,~:~'~ ':~~.:~ ^_.T: ~ C-- -I:~ti( C ~'~ ~:~ _r;j: I~ h: I LAKE STURGEON (Acipenser rubicundus) being well adapted to the methods of artificial propagation, the permanence of the supply is endangered. The sturgeon is found also in waters of the upper Mississippi region, and is still common in the larger bodies of water of the far north. It is valued chiefly for its roe, which is made into expensive caviar. Its flesh, either fresh or smoked, has now a high market value. GARS-Lepisosteidae. A fish that has lived long in the Aquarium is the Bony Gar (Lepisosteus osseus). There are specimens now in the tanks which have been there twenty years. It is in fact one of the winners in the struggle for existence, fossil gars of the same genus having been found in Eocene deposits both in America and Europe. The bony gar is found in most of our waters from Vermont to Mexico. It is the enemy of all other fishes, and is so voracious that serious efforts have been made toward its extermination in small lakes. Wearing an armor of hard plates, it has no enemy but the fisherman to-whom it is merely a destructive nuisance. Sharing the captivity of the Bony Gar is another species, the Short-nosed Gar (Lepisosteus platostomus) from western waters. It is similarly armored with heavy scales and has the same destructive habits. fr -.i.i I: I; 'i: a, i '~rr I -~ '1 ~i " 0 m Q till Yl 0 zF 0 cl) GUIDE BOOK 19 'U, -J11 MUDFISH The largest of the gars and in fact one of the largest American fresh-water fishes, is the Alligator Gar (Lepisosteus tristoechus), rivaling the sturgeon in size. Specimens twelve to fourteen feet in length have been taken. Powerful and voracious, it is the fresh-water counterpart of the shark, and inhabits the lower Mississippi and streams of the Gulf of Mexico. It is probably hardy in captivity, like other gars, but the Aquarium has not yet received specimens in sound condition. This fish is not used for food in the United States but is valued in the markets of Tampico, Mexico. MUDFISH-Amiidae. Closely related to fossil forms is the Bowfin (Ania calva), also called Mudfish and Dog Fish, the only living species of the family Amniidae. It is remarkably hardy, and the Aquarium has specimens that have lived in the building eighteen years. It is abundant in the Great Lakes and throughout the Ohio and Mississippi valleys. Although reaching a good size, nearly two feet in length, the bowfin has been but little utilized for food until recently. It is now being shippfed to eastern markets with consignments of carp. The bowfin makes a nest on the bottom among aquatic vegetation, the male parent protecting both eggs and young. Cý.TFISHES'-Siluridae. One of the best of the catfish tribe is the Spotted Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), also called Channel and 3Blue Cat. 20 NEW YORK AQUARIUM SPOTTED CATFISH (Ictainrus punctatus) Found everywhere in the middle and eastern states except in streams tributary to the Atlantic. It grows large and contributes much to the food supply of the country. The spotted catfish is taken chiefly with hand and set lines. It inhabits more swiftly flowing waters than do other catfishes. The Common Catfish (Ameuru its nebulosus), known also HORNED POUT (Ameourus nebitlosus) GUIDE BOOK 21 SUCKER (Catostomus commnersonii) as Bullhead and Horned Pout, is dommon throughout the middle and eastern states and has been introduced in California, where it is now abundant. Great numbers are sold in the Chinese markets in San Francisco, and its food value in the east is important. After the eggs of the catfish have hatched, the old fishes lead the young in schools, caring for them as the hen for her chickens. Over thirteen million pounds of catfishes are sold yearly. According to negro philosophy "A catfish on the line is worth more than a whale in the water." One of the attractions of the Aquarium some years ago was a sixty-pound specimen of the Mississippi Catfish (Ictalurus furcatus), which lived in the building four years. This is one of the really big fishes of the Mississippi Valley and Gulf States, and has been known to weigh over one hundred pounds. This fish ate only during the warmer months, taking no food whatever in winter. The abundant and well-known Yellow Cat (Amneiurus natal'is) belongs to the eastern and middle states. Its length does not exceed two feet. The Aquarium has kept specimens more than three years. Like other small catfishes, it is known as a "bullhead." NEW YORK AQUARIUM CHUB SUCKER (Erimyzonj sucetta) SUCKEIRS-Catostomidae. When it comes to, fish catching, the Sucker (Catostomus commnersonii) must be considered in a class by itself. It pays little attention to the baited hook, but all boys who have loitered about the streams know how to take it with wire snares. It may be found anywhere in the eastern and middle states, and ascends rocky streams to spawn. The Chub Sucker (Erimyzon sucetta) is almost as well known as the common sunfish. The male in the spring has horny tubercles on the head and one of the names applied to it is Horny Chub. It is a bottom feeder, and has the habit of supporting itself on the bottom, like the darter, by means of its paired fins. This fish is widely distributed in the eastern and middle states. The handsomest of all the suckers is the Redhorse (Moxostoma aur'eolum), which is brought to the Aquarium from the Great Lakes. It attains a weight of five or six pounds, but is not considered a choice food fish. The largest of the sucker tribe is the Buffalo-fish (Ictiobus cyprinella), from the large rivers of the Mississippi Valley, and specimens weighing fifty pounds have been taken. It is the most abundant native food fish of the region and millions of pounds are sold yearly. It feeds largely on aquatic crustacea, insects and plants. GUIDE BOOK QUILLBACK (Carpiodes velifer) The Quillback (Carpiodes velifer) of the Mississippi Valley is often to be been in our collectons. It rarely exceeds a foot in length and has little commercial value. The prolonged first dorsal ray gives it its name. It belongs to the group of fishes called carp-suckers, and abounds in sluggish waters, where it does much rooting in the mud. Specimens have lived in the Aquarium three years. CARPS and MINNOWS-Cyprinidae. The Carp (Cyprinus carpio), a native of Asia and introduced into Europe, was from there introduced into America where it has become widely distributed and enormously abundant. There are three principal varieties, known as Scale, Mirror and Leather Carp. The first is fully scaled, the second has a few large scales, and the last is nearly scaleless. Old specimens that have been kept under favorable conditions in Europe have been reported to weigh as much as ninety pounds. The food of the carp is chiefly vegetable. Anglers have always complained about, the introduction of the carp into our waters but its remarkable fecundity has made it so abundant that its value as a food fish outweighs 21i objections. Carp from certain western localities such 24 NEW YORK AQUARIUM FRINGE-TAILED GOLDFISHES as the Illinois River and the southern part of Lake Erie, are now being shipped by the carload to New York, Philadelphia, and other eastern cities, where many millions of pounds are consumed yearly. Young carp are known to constitute an important part of the food of black basses and other predatory fishes which have become more numerous in many localities since carp were introduced. The world's favorite fish for small aquaria is the well known Goldfish (Carassius auratus), which has various forms and colors produced by breeding. The cultivation of goldfishes is an important industry in Japan, where such. fancy varieties as "fan-tail," "fringe-tail," "lion-head" and "telescope" have been developed. The goldfish, native of China and Japan, is a near relative of the carp, and was taken to England in the 17th century. Its rearing for aquarium purposes is now carried on extensively in the United States. The Golden Ide (Idus idus) was introduced from Europe as an ornamental fish for small ponds. It has been bred at fish hatcheries, but does not increase in our climate. The Horned Chub (Semotilus atromaculatus) is an inhabitant of the brooks and small creeks,.where it is also GUIDE EOOK 25 COMMON ROACH (Abramis crysoleecas) generally the largest inhabitant. It is an active and voracious little fish ready to bite-at most of the baits known to the country boy, such as grasshoppers, soft caterpillars and beetles, to say nothing of earthworms. No pan fish tastes better. It is a nest builder, carrying pebbles to the shallow excavations where the eggs are deposited. Although only of minnow size, the Stone Roller (caZmpostoma' anomalum) is anatomically somewhat of a celebrity; its genus, alone of all fishes, having the long intestine wound around the air-bladder. It is widely distributed and is well known for its habit of carrying fine gravel to its nest. The stone roller runs up the brooks at spawning time in large numbers. It is a good fish to keep in small aquaria. The Roach or Golden Shiner (Abramis crysoleucas) is widely distributed throughout the eastern and middle states. Anglers value it as a bait fish, and it is useful in ornamental ponds in destroying mosquito larvae. The roach is abundant in the park lakes of New York City. It is a hardy fish for keeping in small aquaria and one of the best fishes that can be introduced into private ponds as a food aupply for larger fishes. 26 NTEW YORK AQUARIUMI PEARL ROACH (Scardineus erythrophthalmus) A very attractive fish that is always to be seen in the Aquarium is the European Rudd or Pearl Roach (Scardinius erythropthalmus). It was introduced from Europe, but the history of its introduction is unknown. Until quite recently it was found only in the lakes in the parks of New York City, where it has long been abundant. The rudd is a food fish, sometimes weighing two pounds. It is distir guishable at all ages from the native roach by the vermillioii color of the fins. Another European fish introduced to a limited extent into American waters is the Tench (Tinca), a food fish occasionally weighing several pounds. It is a hardy species that, like the carp, can live many hours out of water. The tench is often found with a bright golden color. ZELS-Anguillidae. The Eel (Anguilla chrysypa), here mentioned among freshwater fishes, might also be included among the marine species, but most of its life is spent in rivers, which it follows far inland. It penetrates streams flowing into the Ohio and upper Mississippi. Unlike shad and salmon, which are sea fishes entering fresh waters to spawn, the eel's habit is quite GUIDE BOOK te reverse, as it descends from the rivers to spawn in the sea. The eel is generally taken in traps or fish pots, and millions of pounds are consumed every year. SALMON, TROUTS, WHITEFISH and GRAYLING--Salmonidae. The Quinnat Salmon (Oncorhynchus tschawytschJa) is also known as King Salmon and Columbia River Salmon.It is found along our Pacific Coast from California to Bering Straits. The average weight of this fish is twenty pounds, but it has been known to reach a weight of one hundred pounds. The Pacific salmons, of which there are five species, are the most valuable of all fishes. Many millions of dollars' worth are canned yearly. The Pacific salmons to be seen in the Aquarium from time to time are hatched here from eggs sent in small refrigerator boxes from Government hatcheries in California. The Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) is a North Atlantic species, ascending the rivers of northern Europe and North America. It is said to have been found formerly in the Hudson River, which, if true, was its southern limit. Two landlocked varieties of this salmon are found in northern lakes. Its weight is from ten to twenty pounds, but specimens of eighty pounds have been recorded. The Atlantic salmon is the noblest of food and game fishes. The Landlocked Salmon (Salmo salar sebago) is often. called the Sebago Salmon. It is found naturally in some of the lakes of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, and from there northward. It has also been extensively introduced into other northern waters. The landlocked salmon is a fresh-water variety, not being migratory like the sea calmon. It has been known to reach a weight of twentyfive pounds, and ranks high as a game fish. The Humpback Salmon (Oncorhyncrhus gorbuscha) is an inhabitant of the Pacific Coast from California to the Arctic Ocean, and is very abundant in the smaller streams of Alaska. The males in the fall develop a fleshy hump which gives the fish its name. This is the smallest of the Pacifil salmons. Its eggs have been hatched in the Aquarium and the young kept several years. The Sunapee or Golden Trout (Salvelinus aureol'u< NEW YORK AQUARIUM BROWN TROUT. Several of these are albinos. handsomest of our eastern trouts, is an inhabitant of Sunapee Lake, New Iampshire, and lakes of the adjacent region. It is closely related to the European charr. The Sunapee trout inhabits deep, cold water. The name golden trout is now generally applied to another species found in the high sierras of California. The Brown Trout (Salmo fario) has been introduced extensively from Europe into American waters. It is a food and game fish of decided importance, but is not as popular with anglers as our more active native trouts. The brown trout sometimes attains a weight of twenty pounds. In our waters it spawns from October to January. Like other trouts it feeds on insects and their larvae, worms, freshwater mollusks and small fishes. The Lake Trout (Cristivomer na-maycush), also called Mackinaw Trout, is an inhabitant of the Great Lakes and lakes of New York, its distribution extending northward to Alaska, where the writer has taken specimens above the Arctic Circle. This is the largest of the trouts and is said to have been found weighing as much as one hundred pounds. It is a valuable food fish, millions of pounds from the Great Lakes being sold yearly. It is usually taken by anglers by -rolling. GUIDE BOOK ^ ^:< '::i'- ^ '* *' "'' \ "' ** " ' * '' * -,':*. *^ ** ' ^ YEARLING RAINBOW TROUT The Rainbow Trout (Salmo irideus), also called Salmon Trout, is now known to be identical with the Steelhead Trout. It is an inhabitant of the Pacific Coast from California to Alaska, and has been introduced widely into eastern waters, being now common in some of the Great Lakes, from which it ascends streams. It goes up the Columbia River as far as Idaho. This is a large species, sometimes weighing thirty pounds. The "steelhead" is shipped to market in considerable quantities and on the Pacific Coast is considered the best native game fish. Black-spotted Trout (Sabno pleuriticus). The blackspotted trouts inhabit the entire Rocky Mlountain region. They are divided into several species, according to the waters in which they are distributed, and are known by several names such as Cut-throat, Rocky Moutain, Yellow-stone trout, etc. In some waters they weigh as much as eighteen pounds. The black-spotted trouts are excellent game and food fishes. Unlike most other American trouts, they spawn in spring and early summer. The fish eggs' to be found in the Aquarium hatchery in summer are exclusively those of the black-spotted trouts. NEW YORK AQUARIUMV WHITEFISH (Coregonus clupeiformis) The "Brook or Speckled Trout (Salvelinus fontinali8s) is the most beautiful and best known of American trouts. It inhabits naturally cold, clear streams and lakes from, Maine to Georgia and throughout the Great Lakes region and has been introduced into western waters. Under favorable conditions the brook trout attains a good size and is said to have reached a weight of ten pounds in the Rangeley Lakes. It is easily handled in fish hatcheries and has long been extensively propagated by artificial means. The Grayling (Thymallus tricolor) is a northern fish which inhabits the Au Sable and other rivers of Michigan, certain waters in Montana, and is being introduced elsewhere in the northern states. This species has become scarce in Michigan as a result of lumbering operations and over-fishing. Its northern range extends beyond the Arctic Circle. The grayling is one of the daintiest and rarest of game fishes. One of the most important food fishes of the country is the familiar Whitefish (Coregonus clupeiformis). It was formerly enormously abundant in the Great Lakes, and millions of pounds are still marketed yearly, strenuous efforts being made to keep up the supply 6y artificial propaga GUIDE BOOK CHAIN PICKEREL (Lucius reticulatus) tion. The whitefish sometimes reaches a weight of twenty pounds. The eggs and young are often to be seen in 'the hatchery of the Aquarium, and specimens reared here have lived in the building several years. There are many species of whitefishes in northern waters, PIKES and PICKERELS-Luciidae. The Pike (Lucius lucius) is an inhabitant of northern Europe, Asia and America. Its American range is from New York to the upper Mississippi Valley and northward to Alaska. It is a fish of large size, sometimes weighing forty pounds, voracious and quite destructive to other fishes. A food and game fish of importance, the pike is described by Izaak Walton as "too good for any but anglers and honest men." The Chain Pickerel (Lucius reticulatus), also called Jack, or Green Pike, is found from Maine to Florida, east of the Allegheny Mountains, and also.in the Mississippi River. It is abundant in the lakes of New York. The chain pickerel, like the pike, is a very predaceous fish, though smaller, its length not exceedingly two feet and its weight eight pounds. It is a well known game fish. 32' NEW YORK AQ JARIUM MUSKALLUNGE (Lucius masqutinongy) The Banded Pickerel (Lucius americanus) belongs only to the region east of the Alleghanies, from Massachusetts southward inhabiting lowland streams and swamps. It is too small to be of much importance for food, being seldom more than a foot in length. It is often found in brackish water in the vicinity of New York. This species is distinguished from the chain pickerel by numerous vertical dark bands, while the latter has dark lines forming a net-work pattern. The largest of the pike family is the Muskallunge (LuciuY masquinon.gy), which is found from the lakes of New York, the Great Lakes and the Mississippi Valley, northward. It sometimes attains a weight of one hundred pounds, and is a splendid game fish, usually taken by trolling with live fish bait. Large specimens exceeding four feet in length and weighing thirty pounds, have lived in the tanks of the Aquarium ten years. KILLIFISHES-Poeciliidae. The Killifish (Fundulus diaphanus), although of only minnow size, renders an excellent service to man as an active destroyer of the larvae of mosquitoes, the fresh wator GUIDE BOOK 33 LONG-EARED SUNFISH (Lepomis megalotis) "killy" being one of the be3t species for eliminating the mosquito nuisance in ornamental ponds. The killifish is also important as food for other fishes. It is found from Maine to North Carolina, and is abundant in some of the lakes of New York City. BLIND FISHES-Amblyopsidae. The Blind Fish of the Mammoth Cave (Typhlichthys szubterraneus) has more than once found its way to the Aquarium and lived there two years. It is a small fish, less than three inches long and colorless as an albino. Feeding freely on mosquito larvae in summer and small amphipod crustaceans in winter, it seems to be quite unaffected by its change from the great cavern to the world of light. STICKLEBACKS-Gasterosteidae. The Brook Stickleback (Euca iai. inconstamns), found in small streams throughout the northeastern states, is a small fish only a couple of inches long, but active and abundant. The males develop much bright red color in spring. Stickle - backs are favorite fishes for small aquaria, as they construct nests of water plants to hold their eggs, which are actively guarded by the male. 34 NEW YORK AQUARIUM YOUNG BLUE-NOSED SUNFISH (Lepomis pallidus) PIRATE PERCHES-Aphredoderidae. The Pirate Perch (Aphredoderus sayanus) is a small fish three or four inches long, ranging from New York, westward. It inhabits quiet waters, living in the shelter of aquatic plants. At spawning time the nest is guarded by both parents. SUNFISHES and BASSES-Centrarchidae. The Long-eared Sunfish (Lepomis megalotis) is one of the most brilliant of the sunfishes. It comes from west of the Alleghanies and has lived three years in captivity. The Blue-nosed Sunfish (Lepomis pallidus) is the largest of the sunfish group and sometimes weighs two pounds. In warm southern waters it grows larger than in the north. It is widely distributed over the eastern states, but is not found north of New Jersey on the Atlantic Coast. Specimens are occasionally to be seen in the tanks of the Aquarium. Thoreau says that the Red-Breasted Sunfish (Lepomis auritus) is "seen on every urchin's string." It may be found all the way from Maine to Louisiana, and is common in streams near New York City. Like all the sunfishes, the red-breast makes nests in shallow water along shore. Although small, it is good to catch and good to eat. GUIDE BOOK lljl^;!^^ ^ ~- ~. ROCK BASS (Ambloplites rupestris) The Sunfish (Eiupomotis gibbosus) is probably better known to the boy with a fishing rod than any other fish in our native waters. Pumpkin Seed is one of the many names he gives it. On account of the small size of the sunfish its food value is limited. Building saucer-shaped nests in shallow water, which the male carefully protects, it is more easily observed than any other wild fish, and its ways are well known. The sunfish should not be introduced into ponds where food fishes are to be raised. It becomes very abunidant, and besides having little food value on the table, is not well adapted as a food supply for more important fishes. Another sunfish which has been brought to the Aquarium is the Warmouth (Ohaenobryttuis gulosus). It.is found west of the Alleghanies and also along the Atlantic slope from North Carolina southward. It inhabits sluggish waters and is well known to anglers. One of the smallest and handsomest of the sunfishes is the Banded Sunfish (Mesogonistius chaetodon). It has a rather limited range, being found only from New Jersey to North Carolina. Its length is seldom over nine inches. The baiDu 36 NEW YORK AQUARIUM LARGE-M-OUTHED BLACK BASS (First dorsal lowered) ed sunfish inhabits sluggish streams and is always found among water plants. It has been successfully kept in small aquaria, where it seems to require insect larvae, small crustacea and other live food. Specimens have been kept in the New York Aquarium three years. The Mud Sunfish (Acantharcus pomotis) is found in sluggish streams near the coast, from New York, southward. This is a seclusive fish very little in evidence, and may be more numerous than it appears to be. It has lived eight months in the-Aqarium tanks. Its color is greenish, with broad lengthwise bands. A fish dear to young anglers is the Rock Bass (Ambloplites rupestris), often called Red-eye and Goggle-eye.: It may be found in- suitable waters almost anywhere in the eastern and middle states. It is not often found as heavy as three pounds, but is gamy to catch and excellent for the table. The rock bass is a species well adapted for the home fish pond. There are few fishes more popular with anglers than the black basses. The Large-mouthed Black Bass (Micropterus GUIDE BOOK 37 CRAPPIE (Pomoxis annularis) salmoides), also called Oswego and Grass Bass, is widely distributed through our eastern states and westward to Minnesota and Texas. -Artificial propagation has greatly extended its range. The maximum weight of the large-mouthed bass is about twelve pounds. The Small-mouthed Black Bass (M11icropterus dolomiieu) is considered. the. pluckiest of Americari game fishes and is one of the most popular with anglers..'Like the largemouthed bass,.its. naturally wide range has been greatly extended by cultivation. The small-mouthed-, bass lends itself readily to pond culture. The spawning nests are actively protected by the male fish. The markings of this species vary greatly according to locality. The Calico Bass (Pomoxis sparoidces) has several names, the commonest of which are Strawberry- and Grass Bass. It is found from New Jersey to the Great Lakes and southward to Texas, and has been introduced into many parts of- the country which it did.not -inhabit- originally. Being a good food and game fish distributed for cultivation in small ponds, it is now well known throughout the eastern states. 38 NEW YORK AQUARIUM PIKE PERCH (Stizostedion vitreum) The Crappie (Pomoxis annLdaris), which looks much like the calico bass, has local names too numerous to mention. It has about the same natural distribution and has been introduced elsewhere for the same reasons-that it is a good food and game fish and multiplies rapidly in small ponds. PERCHES-Percidae. A food and game fish which is extensively propagated in government and state hatcheries, is the Pike Perch (Stizostedion vitreum), often called Wall-eyed Pike. It is found from the Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes, northward, extending south on the Atlantic Coast as far as Georgia. It is a fish of considerable importance in our markets. Specimens weighing twenty pounds have been taken in the Great Lakes, but the average is less than ten pounds. A fish of similar appearance is the Sauger (Stizostedion canadense), also called Sand Pike and Jack. Its natural range from the St. Lawrence River to Montana and Arkansas has been considerably extended by fish culturists. This fish is merely a smaller relative of the pike perch. It reaches a length of about eighteen inches and is extensively used for food. A medium sized fish of more than medium importance GUIDE BOOK 39 YELLOW PERCH (Perca flavescens) is the Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens), of the northern United States. More than ten million pounds of this fish are marketed annually and great quantities are caught by anglers everywhere. The yellow perch lays its eggs in large masses in shallow water along shore, and is easily propagated in ponds. Hundreds of thousands are hatched yearly in the New York Aquarium and planted in local waters. There are many kinds of tiny darters inhabiting the brooks everywhere, one of which is the Tessellated Darter (Boleosoma nigrum olmstedi). It has been kept for three years at a time, but such little fishes are rather overlooked among the big ones in the Aquarium. This species, found from Massachusetts to Georgia, is common near New York City. Many of the darters have brilliant colors and some of them can be kept in small aquaria. BASSES-S'erranidae. A good food and game fish of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River regions, is the White Bass or Lake Bass (Roccus chrysops). It is often to be seen in western markets and may reach a length of fifteen inches. The white bass is a good species for stocking small ponds and rises well to the angler's artificial fly. 40 NEW:YORK 'AQUARIUM WHITE BASS (Roccus chrysops) The Fresh-water Drum (Aplodinotus grunniens) is found from New York and the Great Lakes to Texas and bears a different name in each state. Although not one of the best fishes, it is much used for food. Large specimens weigh forty pounds or more. It is a bottom fish, feeding largely........... FRESH-WATER DRUM (Aplodinotus grunniens) GUIDE BOOK 41..:. BURBOT (Lota inaculosa) on crayfish. and small shells, which its blunt paved teeth easily crush. Like its relative the salt-water drum, it makes the noises which give both fishes their common namne. CODFISHES-Gadidae. The only fish, of the cod family living in fresh water is the Burbot (Lotct maculosa), also called Ling and Freshwater Cusk. It ranges from our northern states to Alaska. Specimens weighing sixty pounds have been taken in the Yukon River, where it is a valuable food fish to the natives. This excellent fish long neglected in our waters, is now being marketed in important quantities. MARINE FISHES LAMPREYS-Pe tromyzonidae. The Sea Lamprey (Petr'omnyzoin m arihnus) is a species which ascends streams to spawn and dies after spawning. Its rounded mouth is adapted for suction and the lancetlike teeth are arranged in circles. It attaches itself to and feeds on other fishes. The sea lamprey and the fresh-water lamprey (Petromyzon marinus unicolor), are both very destructive. The latter is common in the lakes of New York and does not descend to the sea. 42 NEW YORK AQUARIUM SAND SHARK, JEWFISH AND GROUPER SHARKS, SKATES and RAYS-Selachii. Sharks are frequently to be seen in the Aquarium, but large specimens never live more than a few days in captivity. Young sharks are better adapted for exhibition and the Sand Shark (Carcharias littoralis) has lived for two years in one of the large floor pools. This species, which reaches a length of about nine feet, is common in local waters and specimens three or four feet long do well in confinement. The Blue Shark (Carcharias imilberti) has been kept three weeks, the specimens being about seven feet in length. The Hammerhead Shark (Sphryna zygaena), remarkable for the position of its eyes, which are placed at the lateral extremities of the hammer-shaped head, has been exhibited for a short time. Large specimens of the Nurse Shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) do not long survive, but the Aquarium has kept specimens of the young from Florida for two years. This species, although reaching a length of ten feet, has a very small mouth and is an entirely harmless shark. The following small species are easily obtained and have lived for months: The Smooth Grayfish (Mustelus canis), abundant on our Atlantic coast south of Cape Cod, reaches GUIDE BOOK 43 COIMIION SKATE (Raia erinacea) a length of about three feet. This fish, formerly used only for oil and fertilizer, has recently come into general use as food, and quantities are now being marketed fresh. The Grayfish (Squalus acanthias), abundant along the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland to Cape Cod during the summer and early fall, migrates in the late fall to the southward, occurring in comparative abundance as far south as the coast of North Carolina. This fish has recently been placed on the market, canned, and a closely related species is packed on the Pacific coast. It is wholesome, nutritious and palatable, and within a few months of its introduction had become an important food product. The Common Skate (Raia.erinacea) is the smallest skate found along our coast, ranging from one to two feet in length. It is also called Prickly Skate on account of the numerous spines on the upper surface of the body. The Barndoor Skate (Raia laevis) is the largest species of the north Atlantic coast, reaching a length of four feet. It is common in the New York region and is often to be seen in the Aquarium. The large pectoral fins of skates are much used for food, especially in foreign countries. The Big Skate (Raia ocellata) resembles the commce Ar NEW YORK AQUARIUM skate in appearance and is similarly covered with spines. Skates lay their eggs in leathery, rectangular-shaped cases, which are often washed ashore and are popularly known c mermaids' purses. The Sting-ray (Dasyatis centrura) is celebrated for the charp bony spine on the top of its tail, with which it often inflicts dangerous wounds. The tail is long and whiplike, and the fish sometimes reaches a total length of eight feet. This species is more or less abundant from Maine to North Carolina. Other kinds of sting-rays are found farther south. The Electric Ray or Torpedo (Tetronarce occidentalis) occurs all along the Atlantic coast of the United States, though not common in New York waters, and reaches a weight of about 100 pounds. Provided with an electric organ located near the head, it is capable of giving powerful shocks when handled or even touched with a stick. It is hard to transport alive and has seldom been brought to the Aquarium. Other rays often to be seen in the Aquarium are the Cownosed Ray (Rhinoptera bonasus), and the Butterfly Ray (Pteroplata rmaclura). Both are fairly common along our coast. STURGEONS-Acipenseridae. The largest sea fish entering our rivers is the Common Sturgeon (Acipenser sturio), which spawns in all of the larger rivers from Maine to Florida. It has been known to weigh as much as five hundred pounds, and like the lake sturgeon, is valued more for its eggs than its flesh. The sturgeon fishery of the United States including the species of the Great Lakes and the Pacific Coast, formerly yielded several million pounds of products a year, but the catch is now deplorably reduced. Specimens of this species have lived in the Aquarium four years. S Th- Short-nosed Sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostris) has about the same range as the large common sturgeon, entering screrms from Massachusetts to the Gulf of Mexico. Its length Loes not exceed three feet. This species, although frequently taken in pound nets, is not extensively used for food. The short-nosed sturgeon lives well in captivity. GUIDE BOOK 45 COMMON (upper) and SHORT-NOSED STURGEONS S.EA CATFISHES-Siluridae. The Sea Catfish (Hexcanematichthys fel"is) of the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, sometimes entering New York Bay, is interesting on account of its habits. The eggs, few in number but of large size, are carried in the mouth of the parent fish until hatched. CONGER EEL-Leptocephalidae. The Conger Eel (Leptocephalus conger) is found nearly all over the world, and is common along our coast. It is of little food value in the United States, but is used extensively in the old world. It reaches a length of seven or eight feet. MORAYS--Muraenidae. The Green Moray (Lycodontis fumebris) is one of the most conspicuous fishes to be seen in the Aquarium, where specimens five or six feet long have lived for several years. The green moray is a very active fish with sharp and dangerous teeth, and.requires careful handling when dragged into the fisherman's boat. Its color is a brilliant, uniform green. Usually kept with it in the tanks is the Spotted Moray (Lycodontis moringa), which is of smaller size and conspicu Vs:A ~~ A~~~r 4$i "I B k > c cr:~ 0 Co 0 zz 0c GUIDE BOOK ously spotted. Both species belong to the Florida and West Indies region. A much rarer species is the Banded Moray (Channomuraenai vittata), with numerous vertical bands. The only specimen ever received at the Aquarium came from Bermuda. TARPONS-Elopidae. The Tarpon (Tarpon atlanticus), during comparatively recent years, has become celebrated as one of the big game fishes of the sea, affording excellent sport to the angler, though little valued as food. It reaches a length of six feet and fights actively when hooked, making splendid leaps from the water. The tarpon belongs to the Florida and West Indies region, wandering northward in summer. The scales of this fish are unusually large, thick and silvery. Several specimens captured in New York Bay in summer have been exhibited at the Aquarium. The Ten-pounder (Elops saurus) is a cousin of the tarpon, which it resembles superficially but lacks the large scales. It is about three feet in length and has no food value. This fish inhabits both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts and is sometimes found in sunimer as far north as New York. HERRINGS-Clupeidae. One of our most important fishes commercially, entering rivers fromn Maine to Florida on the Atlantic coast, is the Shad (Alosa sapidissima). Many years ago it was introduced on the Pacific coast, where it is now equally abundant. About fifty million pounds are sold annually, and the Government maintains several hatcheries for its artificial propagation. Shad begin running in January in the St. John's tiver in Florida, gradually entering streams farther north until they finally reach the Hudson in March. Owing to exhaustive fishing and the ever-increasing pollution of the rivers where it spawns, it has long been decreasing in numbers. Other fishes which, like the shad, belong to the herring family, and are seen in the Aquarium from time to time, are the Glut Herring (Ponmolobus aestivalis), Hickory Shad (Ponmolobus mrediocris), Thread Herring (Opisthone-ma oglinumin), and Menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus). The men 48 NT"WV YORK AQUARIUM TEN-POUNDER (Elops saurus) haden is a species of little importance as a food fish, but exceedingly valuable for oil and fertilizer. Enormous quantities are taken to factories for the preparation of these products. The most abundant and important fish known to mankind is the Herring (Clupea harengus), of northern seas. It has often been styled "King Herring" on account of its preponderance in the fisheries. The annual catch in American and European waters amounts to nearly two billion pounds. The herring of the Pacific coast and Alaska is scarcely different from that of the Atlantic. On the coast of Maine great quantities of young herring are canned as sardines. Young herring are also extensively used as whitebait both in this country and Europe. The Alewife (Pomolobus pseudoharengus) is found along our entire coast as far south as North Carolina. It ascends streams for spawning and is taken in great numbers with seines and fish traps. It is a valuable food fish, being used fresh, or preserved by salting and smoking. ANCHOVIES-Engraulididae. The Anchovy (Stolephorus mitchilli), found all along the Atlantic Coast, is abundant in the New York region. It is a good food fish and the young are often sold as whitebait, especially in the summer season. Anchovies are small fishes, only four or five inches long, but moving in large schools GUIDE BOOK 49 they can be netted in considerable quantities. They are sold not only in the markets, but are used extensively as bait. SMELTS-Argentinidae. The Smelt (Osmerus mordax) is a choice food fish taken in great quantities from Virginia northward. It enters fresh-water streams to spawn. An interesting point in connection with the smelt is the fact of its being-landlocked in Lake Champlain and other lakes. This fish is artificially propagated by the New York Conservation Commission at the Cold Spring Harbor fish hatchery on Long Island, KILLIFISHES-Poeciliidae. Three species of salt water killifish are usually to be found in the Aquarium, where they serve the double purpose of feeding fishes which require live food, and of interesting visitors with their attractive ways. The Bass Killy (Fundulus nmajalis), also called Mummichog, is the largest. It is not often that the sexes of fishes are easily distinguishable, but in this species they are conspicuously different, the females being striped lengthwise, while the males have vertical cross bars. The common Killifish (Fundulus hieteroclitns), also called salt water minnow, is very abundant in New York Bay. The males are brilliantly colored. A third species is the Sheepshead Minnow (COyprinodon variegatus), the males of which during breeding season, become ultramarine blue above and orange below. All of the killifishes are much used for bait. They are so hardy that they can be shipped to anglers considerable distances without water, and are well adapted to small marine aquaria. They are all of great importance as devourers of mosquito larvae. NEEDLEFISHES-Belonidae. The long-jawed and voracious Silver Gar (Tylosurus marinus), is difficult to transport and does not long survive in captivity. It is common along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, entering the mouths of rivers, where it probably spawns. This fish is edible but is little used. It is strikingly elongated and slim of body and has a length of four feet. BALAOS-Hemirhamphidae. The elongated lower jaw of the Halfbeak (Hyporhamphus roberti) serves to identify it, being many times the 50 NEW YORK AQUARIUM SHEEPSHEAD MINNOW AND STICKLEBACKS length of the short upper jaw. It is an excellent food fish, seldom over a foot long. It moves in schools and is easily taken in nets, especially at night when lights are used. Distribution, middle Atlantic coast and southward. STICKLEBACKS-Gasterosteidae. The sticklebacks are represented in the Aquarium by three species which are common about New York Bay. One of these is the Two-spined Stickleback (Gasterost-eus bispinosus). Like the killifishes, they are good fishes for small marine aquaria. The males are gorgeously marked with red in the breeding season. All of the sticklebacks are interesting on account of their nest-building habits. The nest is guarded by the male fish, which will not allow the female to approach it after the eggs are laid, and frequently kills her. The two-spined stickleback is four inches long when mature. PIPEFISHES-Syngnathidae. The Pipefish (Siphostoma fuscum), first cousin of the sea horse, provides for its young in the same way, the eggs being carried in the pouch of the male. It is a common fish, found among sea weed along shore from Massachusetts to GUIDE BOOK SEA HORSE (Hippocampus hudsonius) Virginia. The tail has a small fin and is not prehensile as in the sea horse, while the whole fish is straight of body and very slim. It is protected from head to tail with bony plates. SEA HORSES-Hippocampidae. There is no fish in the Aquarium of more interest to visitors than the Sea Horse (Hippocampus hudsonius), and the interest is in inverse proportion to the size of the fish, for the largest specimens do not reach seven inches in length. It is found from Massachusetts to South Carolina, and is often taken in New York Bay. The eggs are carried in an abdominal pouch by the male until they hatch. The sea horse is the only fish provided with a grasping tail. There are many kinds of sea horses and they inhabit all warm seas. The largest known species (Hippocampus ingens) is about a foot long, and is found on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is a disappointment to many persons to learn that the sea horse is not adapted to small aquaria, as it requires pure sea water and live food. Even in the large tanks of flowing sea water in the New York Aquarium it must have regular supplies of the minute crustaceans (Gammarus), on which it feeds. NEW YORK AQUARIUM COMMON MULLET (MIgil cephalus) SILVERSIDES-Atherinidae. A tankful of Silversides (Menidia notata) is an attractive exhibit. Without this fish, called Spearing in the New York region, anglers would lack one of their most alluring baits. Large numbers are seined with small-meshed nets in sunnmmer, along the adjacent ocean beaches. In winter many gather in the salt water creeks of the marshes, where they a.re taken in abundance with dip-nets. The young of this fish constitutes the bulk of the so-called whitebait brought to market in winter. MULLETS-Mugilidae. The Common Mullet (Mugil cephalus) is widely distributed, being found from Massachusetts to Brazil. It enters the bays, moving in large schools and making frequent leaps from the water. The mullet is a fine food fish, very abundant in the south where it is taken in great numbers and preserved by salting. BARRACUDAS-Sphyraenidae. There is no more fierce and voracious fish for its size than the Barracuda (Sphyraenct barracuda). Reaching a length of six or seven feet, armed with vicious teeth, naturally GUIDE BOOK 53 SQUIRREL-FISH (Holocentrus ascencioniis) savage and active, it is a bloody pirate among fishes. It has the habit of quietly herding schools of fishes until ready to rush among them, the latter huddling together in fear. A fifty-five inch specimen taken at the Tortugas, weighed thirty-eight pounds. The outlines of the barracuda suggest those of the pike, except for the position of certain fins. Only small specimens have been received at the Aquarium. SAND LANCES-Ammodytidae. The Sand Lance (Ammodytes americanus), from five to eight inches in length, is abundant along sandy shores of the Atlantic coast, south to North Carolina, moving in large schools and much given to burying itself in sand. It is a favorite food of bluefish, eels and flounders. Terns also feed extensively on the sand lance. It is difficult to keep in captivity. SQUIRREL-FISHES'-Holocentridae. The Squirrel-fish (Holocentrus ascensionis) is so goldenred that at a little distance it might be mistaken for a goldfish. It is a food fish easily taken with hook and line, and 54 NEW YORK AQUARIUM MOONFISH (Selsne vomer) is often seen in tropical markets. Large specimens may weigh eight pounds. It is found from Florida throughout the West Indies. MACKERELS-Scombridae. It is not easy to exhibit alive the Mackerel (Scomber scombrus), which moves in great schools, but prefers to keep off shore and out of the way of local fishermen. The enormous market supply of mackerel is caught at sea by vessels using great purse seines. The mackerel is the basis of a great fishery, both in Europe and America. The catch in America alone has at times exceeded a million dollars' worth a year. It never has lived more than three months in captivity, which is perhaps all that can be expected of such a wide wanderer. Other members of this family, and no easier to keep, are the Chub Mackerel (Scomber colias), as excellent as the mackerel but much rarer, and the Bonito (Sarda sarda). Both are very active, wide ranging fishes of the open ocean. PAMPANOS-Carangidae. The Silvery Moonfish (Selen vomer) is common in summer as far north as Massachusetts. Specimens from local waters are usually to be seen in the Aquarium, where GUIDE BOOK 55 CREVALLE (Caranx hippos) the species has sometimes lived as long as five years. This fish is so compressed laterally that its unusual appearance always attracts attention. A specimen eight inches long and six inches high may be only half an inch thick. Although edible, the form of its body does not permit much weight of flesh. The moon-fish is sometimes called Horse-Head and Look-Down. The Thread Fish '(Alectis ciliaris) of tropical waters, is found along our coast in summer, often entering New York Bay. Some of the fin rays are developed into threadlike filaments which are much longer in the young than in the adults aid several times longer than the fish bearing them. The Pilot-fis '(Naucrates ductor) is a species which, like the shark sucker, is confirmed in the habit of accompanying sharks and also ships. It is an oceanic fish inhabiting all warm seas, and is common in local waters in summer. It is doubtless well protected from attacks by other fishes, when seeking shelter under its large companion, the shark, and may get some scraps of food from the feasts of the latter. The verdict of epicures is that there is no better fish than the Pampano (Trachinotus carolinis), which belongs tc our south Atlantic and Gulf coasts. It is perhaps most abun 56 NE~T YORK AQUARIUM RUNNER (Caranx crysos) dant about Florida, where great numbers are taken in seines for market. Anglers find it rather difficult to catch. A few pampano wander north in summer and specimens have lived three years in the Aquarium. The Round Pampano (Trachinotus falcatus) is often kept with it and lives as long. Three fine fishes of the West Indies region migrating northward in summer and to be -seen at the Aquarium, are the Crevalle (Caranx hippos), about fifteen inches in length; Runner (Cairanx crysos), a twenty-pounder; and Amberfish (Seriola lalandi), weighing sometimes up to one hundred pounds. All are good for food. These active fishes live three or four years in captivity, and now that many of the tanks have been trebled in size, may be expected to live still longer, having greater room for exercise. Other members of the pampano family which the visitor may expect to meet are the Leather Jacket (Oligoplites saurus), Rudderfish (Seriola. zonata), Goggler (Trachurops crumewnopthalmus), and Blunt-nosed Shiner (Vomer setipinnis). _Most of these are edible and all are interesting. BLUE FISHE S'-Pom atomatidae. A valuable fish providing about twenty million pounds a year for our food supply, is the Bluefish (Pomatomus salta GUIDE BOOK CRABEATER (Rachycentron canadus) trix). It runs in large schools, and is extremely destructive to other fishes. Bluefish trolling is a popular sport along the coast. This species averages over five pounds in weight in our northern waters, but in the south often reaches twice that size. In the New York region, specimens of less than one pound are called snappers. Bluefishes received at the Aquarium six inches in length, reached a length of twenty inches in eighteen months. SARGEANT FISHES-Rachycentridae. The Crabeater (Rachycentron canidus) is interesting because of its superficial resemblance to the shark sucker although in no way related to it. It reaches a length of five feet and is edible, but not much esteemed. It is found in New York waters in summer. More than twenty crabs have been taken from the stomach of one fish. RUDDER-FISHES-Centrolophidae. The Black Pilot (Palin'urichthys perciformis), also called Rudder-fish, Log-fish and Barrel-fish, gets its various names from the habit of gathering under becalmed vessels, floating spars and barrels. It is even found inside the barrels. It is doubtless attracted by the crustaceans and other invertebrate life accumulating about drifting wreckage. -This fish is found from Maine to North Carolina-off shore rather than in the bays. NEW YORK AQUARIUM YELLOW-FIN GROUPER (Mycteroperca venenosa) FIATOLAS-Stromateidae. An abundant summer fish well known to New York anglers along the wharves is the Butterfish (Rhombus triacanthus). Great numbers are taken in pound nets and sent to market. This fish is found along the coast from Maine to North Carolina. Although small, it is of excellent flavor. The name I-Harvestfish is often applied to it. The young of the butterfish have the habit of seeking shelter under floating jellyfishes. ROBALOS-Centropomidae. The Snook (Centropomus undecimalis) gets its inharmonious name from snoek, the Dutch for pike. It is the largest and most important of its genus, reaching a length of four feet and having white flaky flesh like that of the striped bass. The name Robalo, also applied to it, is Spanish for bass. Its outlines suggest those of the pike-perch. It is a very active game fish highly appreciated by anglers and is often taken by trolling. Habitat, Gulf of Mexico and West Indies. SEA BASSES, GR-OUPERS, ETC.-Serranidae. The larger members of this large family common to our GUIDE BOOK 59 SCAMP (Myctcroperca phcnlax) collections are the Yellow-fin Grouper (Mycteroperca venenosa), Black Rockfish (Myclteroperca bonaxci), Princess Rockfish (Mycteroperca olfax), Scamp (illycteroperca phenax), and Gag (Miyctleroperca microlepis). The last is as yet known only from Bermuda, Florida and North Carolina. There are others too numerous to be described here. The groupers are large-sized food fishes, abundant from Florida throughout the West Indies. They figure prominently in tropical markets and some afford considerable sport in their catching. Their color changes are remarkable, most of which are made instantaneously. The smaller members being still more brilliantly colored, attract more attention in captivity. The Rock Hind (Epinephelus adscensionis and the Red Hind (E. guttatus) range northward to the Carolinas. The Coney (Bodianus fulvus) is represented by several varieties different somewhat in color and all capable of individual color variations. All are used for food. The Jewfiish (Promicrops itaiara) is one of the largest food fishes of the Florida and West Indian regions, reaching a weight at times of five hundred pounds. The Aquarium has had specimens weighing three hundred. These ,to NEW YORK AQUARIUM CONEY (Bodianus fulvus, var punctatus) large fishes endure captivity well and there are now jewfish in the building which have been on exhibition seven years. An important market fish is the Sea Bass (Centropristes SEA BASS (Centropristes striatus) GUIDE BOOK 61 STRIPED BASS (Roccuis lineatus) striatus), which is caught in abundance from Massachusetts to North Carolina. Large specimens weigh four or five pounds. Over three millions of pounds of sea bass are taken yearly along the Atlantic coast. One of the finest sea fishes entering our rivers to spawn is the Striped Bass (Roccus lineatus), often called Rockfish. On the Atlantic coast its range is from Maine to Florida. One of the great successes of modern fish culture has been achieved with this species. It was introduced into California many years ago, where it is now more abundant, perhaps, than on the Atlantic coast. Striped bass have been taken in eastern waters weighing one hundred pounds. This is a most important market fish, several million pounds being sold yearly, and it affords to sportsmen the finest of sea fishing. It has shown a remarkable capacity for living in captivity. Several two-year-old specimens placed in the tanks of the New York Aquarium at its opening in 1896, lived here sixteen years, one specimen surviving nineteen years. Other specimens raised in the Aquarium lived nine years. The Graysby (Petrometopon. cruentattus), of the Bermudas, Bahamas and Florida, is a small but valued food fish, usually less than a foot in length. It is a very active species and beautifully colored, being reddish-gray with bright vermillion spots. 62 NEWI YORK AQUARIUM..'----~-~. i:,::1::~.:::::-.-:F ~~; X.: ~~~... i YOUNG WHITE PERCH (Morone americana) The White Perch (Morone americanra) is found in the Atlantic coast region from Nova Scotia to South Carolina, and is common in both fresh and brackish waters. It can be taken with the- artificial fly, and is good for food. It lives in some of the park lakes of New York City. A "regular boarder," the Nassau Grouper (Epinephelus striatus), doesn't mind staying at the Aquarium seven years at a stretch. He not only keeps friendly with the other / /.. NASSAU GROUPER (Epinephelus striatus) GUIDE BOOK RED GROUPER (Epinephelus nlorio) boarders but perhaps entertains them with his continuous performance of changing from one color to another. The Nassau grouper is in fact a chameleon of the sea, being capa TIGER ROCKFISH (Mvycteroperca tigris) 64 NEW YORK AQUARIUM YELLOWTAIL (Ocyurus chrysurus) ble of assuming eight distinct phases of coloration in as many minutes. From Florida throughout the West Indies it is everywhere an important market fish, often weighing as much as fifty pounds. The Red Grouper (Epinephelus morio), which grows nearly as large as the Nassau grouper and lives as long in captivity, also has several different phases of color, but neither so many nor so striking. It is a valuable West Indies food fish. There is nothing tigerish about the Tiger Rockfish (Mycteroperca. tigris), but his stripes. Big-a twenty pounder-and handsome, he settles down amiably for a five-year stay with no apparent yearnings for his native West Indies. The Soapfish (Rhypticus bistrispinus) derives its name from the soapy slime it throws off when placed in a small quantity of water. The scales are minute and so embedded in the skin that they are not apparent to the touch. Nothing is recorded as to its habits, but it easily endures captivity. The color is a warm brown, the body being dotted lightly with black and white and all fins tipped with dark blue. GUIDE BOOK 65 RED SNAPPER (Neomaenis aya) TRIPLE-TAILS'-Lobotidae. The Triple-tail (Lobotes siurinamensis) of tropical waters, sometimes wanders almost to our doors, the Aquarium having specimens taken in summer in New York Bay. It is a large-sized food fish of thirty or forty pounds' weight. The backward projecting dorsal and anal fins suggest its common name. CATALUFAS-Priacanthidae. A wanderer from the tropics, the Redfish (Pseudopriacanthus altus), is probably the most brilliant fish visiting our shores. The largest recorded specimen is but eleven inches long, but what it lacks in size is compensated for in color, the whole fish being bright crimson with black-edged fins. Its other name, Big-eye, is equally appropriate, the very large golden eye being a most striking feature. Aquarium specimens from Long Island Sound and Atlantic City have lived sixteen months in captivity. SNAPPERS-Lutianidae. The Yellowtail (Ocyurus chrysurus) is only one of many fishes bearing that name. The Spanish name Rabirubia is frequently used. It is abundant about Key West, where fishermen sell many on the streets. The yellowish tint of 66 6NEWV YORK AQUARIUM MUTTONFISH (Neomaenzis analis) the tail extends in a narrow band, forward to the eye. The Aquarium seldom lacks specimens of this handsome snapper. The best known of the snappers is the Red Snapper (Neomaenis aya). It is easily distinguished from% other species of snappers by its nearly uniform scarlet coloration. GRAY SNAPPER (Neomaenis griseus) GUIDE BOOK 67 SPOT SNAPPER (Neomaenis synagris) It is the most important tropical fish that comes to United States markets. In 1903, thirteen million pounds were landed in ports of the Gulf states alone. The red snapper endures captivity well and is usually to be seen in the Aquarium. A tropical snapper which occasionally wanders north in summer is the Muttonfish (Neomaenis analis). Florida anglers find it a gamy fish to catch. It reaches a weight of twenty pounds, and is highly valued in West Indian markets. Like most of the snappers in the Aquarium it lives well in captivity. The Gray Snapper (Neomaenis grise*us) is also called mangrove snapper from its habit of lingering among the roots of mangrove bushes, which grow in salt water. As a food fish it is one of the best of the snappers. The Dog Snapper (Neomaenis jocu), averages larger and has more color. The Spot Snapper (Neomaenis synagris) is recognizable by the dark blotch on the body, below the dorsal fin. It is one of the smaller species, usually of rosy coloration. The Schoolmaster (Neomaenis apodus) is more richly 168 NEW YORK AQUARIUM SCHOOLMASTER (Neomaenis apodus) colbred than any of the others. All of these snappers are used for food some of them affording sport as game fishes. All are exhibited at the Aquarium, wihere they live many years. BLUE-STRIPED GRUNT (Haemulon sciurus) GUIDE BOOK 69 YELLOW GRUNT (Haemulon flavolineatunm) Dark phase (left), striped phase (right). GRUNTERS-Haemulidae..Several species of grunts from southern waters are usually to be found in the tanks, where they are easy to keep. As they move in schools and are easily netted, they are taken in abundance for tropical markets. The hardy Blue-striped Grunt (Haemnulon sciurus) is a steady and dependable exhibit. Handsome and lively, it is perpetually attractive. When two of these fishes play at pushing each other backward and forward like a pair of young goats, showing the bright red of their wide-open mouths, the game is captivating. The Yellow Grunt (lHa-emulon flavolin-eatum) has interesting color changes, two of which are shown in the photograph. The change from one to another is instantaneous. Like most other grunts it is tropical in habitat, much used as food, and affords good sport to the angler. The Tom Tate (Bath ystom-a striatunm) is a small-sized but common food fish found from North Carolina to the West Indies. Like several other grunts, its mouth is bright red within. It is constantly nibbling at baits intended for larger fishes. The Black Margate (Anisotremus surinamensis) is a fish NEW YORK AQUARIUM TOM TATE (Bathystoma striatum) of both good size and quality, belonging to the Florida West Indies fauna. Length two or three feet. The Pigfish (Orthopristis chrysopteirus), found from New York to the Gulf of Mexico, but more abundant south BLACK MARGATE (Anisotremus surinamensis) GUIDE BOOK 71 PORKFISI-I (Anisotrenmits virginicus) ward, is of small size, but a good food fish. It is common along sandy shores, and is well known for the grunting sounds it makes when captured. A hardy species of w-hich there are always many on exhi PINFISH (Lagodon homboides) NEWT YORK AQUARIUM GRASS PORGY (Calanmus arctifrons) bition, is the Porkfish (Anisotremus virginicus), which belongs to the Florida and West Indies fauna. Yellowish in coloration, with striking black bands, it is very showy. It is an abundant and excellent food fish, less than a foot in length. PORGIES-Sparidae. The Pinfish (Lagodon rhomboides) distributed along our coast from New York to the Gulf of Mexico, is prized wherever found. It is not abundant in the north, but is quite important in the south. The much overworked name Sailor's Choice is one of several names applied to it. The fish may be recognized by the dark spot back of the eye and above the pectoral fin. The Grass Porgy (Calamus arctifrons) is a small species found on grassy bottoms in Florida. Its rapid color changes vary from quite pale to profusely mottled and heavily cross-banded. Three other porgies have shared its quarters, the Little-head (Calamus proridens), the Saucer-eye (Calamnus calamus), and the Jolt-head (Calamnus bajonado). All are useful food species, taken with nets and hooks, and all thrive in captivity. BERMUDA CHUB (Kyphosvs sectatrix) 74 NEW YORK AQUARIUM SHEEPSHEAD (Archosargus probatocephalus) The Jolt-head Porgy (Calamus bajonado) is the largest of the porgies, weighing about eight pounds. It probably gets its name of jolt-head from the habit of knocking shellfish from wharves and rocks with its jaws. It is an abundant and important food fish in Florida. One of the best of food fishes is the Sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus), of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts,,ut not abundant in the latitude of New York. Large specimens weigh from fifteen to twenty pounds, and more hlan two million pounds are taken annually. It takes the hook and affords sport to anglers. It has been kept at the Aquarium for five years at a time. The Scup or Porgy (Stenotomnus chrysops) is a well known fish from Massachusetts to South Carolina. Seaside anglers take great numbers, using hand lines with shrimp and clam bait. Millions of pounds are caught for market. This fish is common in summer about Long Island. RUDDER FISHES-Kyphosidae. The widely distributed Bermuda Chub (Kyphosus sectatrix), found throughout the West Indies, visits New York waters in summer. It is called Rudder-fish sometimes from its habit of following vessels. A good food and game fish, GUIDE BOOK DRUMFISH (Pogonias cromis) averaging three or four pounds, it is much sought by anglers in Florida waters. Like most fishes of tropical regions, it makes frequent changes of markings, at one moment showing numerous horizontal stripes, an instant later being densely spotted with white. These two phases are shown in the accompanying photograph. CROAKERS-Sciaenidae. The Spot (Leiostomus xanthurus) has about the same distribution as the pigfish, is good for food, and taken for market in considerable numbers. It is quite common in New York Bay in summer, where it is called Lafayette. It is said that this fish was remarkably abundant in our waters in Revolutionary times, and was named after General Lafayette The name spot is derived from the presence of a dark blotch at the base of the pectoral fin. The Croaker (IMicropogon undulatus), which makes a croaking or grunting noise, is a useful and abundant food fish of the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, especially southward. It is of rather small size and is taken chiefly with hook and line. A large and valuable commercial species, especially southward, is the Channel Bass (Scimenops ocellatus), which NEW YORK AQUARIUM SERGEANT MAJOR (Abudefduf saxatilis) reaches a length of five feet. It is also called Red-drum. This is the most important food fish of the Texas coast. It has been exhibited at the Aquarium, but is not abundant near New York. The Drum (Pogonias cromis) is a large sized fish, sometimes weighing eighty pounds. It is well known for the drumming noise it makes. This species runs in large schools, and is very destructive to young oysters. The young are better for food than the large fish. It thrives in captivity and specimens have lived in the Aquarium several years. About thirty million pounds of Weakfish (CyOposcion 'regalis) are taken during the year. This species, also called Squeteague in the north and Sea Trout in the south, enters tidal waters and is taken in great numbers for sport. Large quantities of the young are devoured by schools of bluefish. The name weakfish appears to have been derived from the softness of the mouth from which the hook readily tears away. The Kingfish (Menticirrhus saxatilis), also called Whiting, has the same distribution as the croaker. It enters the mouths of rivers and goes forty miles up the Hudson. GUIDE BOOK HOGFISH (Lachnolaimus nmaximus) It is a fish of most excellent flavor and great quantities are used for food. It is popular with sea fishermen and takes the bait readily. A fish remarkable in form and in coloration is the Ribbonfish (Eques lanceolatus) of Florida and the West Indies. It is usually less than six inches in length. The arrangement of its three black bands instantly attracts attention: the first vertically across the head through the eye, the second obliquely from top of head to tip of ventral fin; the third from tip of dorsal spines to their base, then downward and backward to tip of tail. Specimens have lived in the Aquarium two years. The Bermuda name is Cubbyu. DEMOISELLES-Pomacentridae. Small but beautiful and active fishes are always to be seen about wharves and reefs in Florida and the West Indies. One of the commonest of these is the Sergeant Major (Abudefduf saxat ilis). It is much given to camouflage, being at times either silvery or black, but oftenest yellowish with heavy bands of black, changing from one phase of 78 NEW YORK AQUARIUM YOUNG TAUTOG (Tautoga onitis) coloration to another almost instanly. It shows these changes in the tanks of the Aquarium, where it makes itself quite at home and lives for years. A thoroughly naturalized citizen, the Beau Gregory (Eupomacentrus leucostictus), seems to enjoy every minute of life in the community of the tanks, where it lives long and prospers. A dozen of these are forever playing and chasing each other as they do in the sunlit rock pools of the tropics. The largest are usually not over four inches long. The Golden-Tail (Microspathodon chrysurus) of Florida, Bermuda and the West Indies, is quite common, but is seldom seen, owing to the fact that it is timid and lives entirely in holes in the reefs. The young are more densely spotted with sky blue than the adults, and do not have the bright golden tail. WRASSES-Labridae. The Hogfish (Lachnolaimus maximus), a well known tropical food species, reaches a weight of twenty pounds. It is chieflly interesting in the tanks of the Aquarium on account of its changes in color, which take place with great GUIDE BOOK 79 ~ YOUNG CUNNER (Tautogolabrus adspersus) frequency. At one moment the fish may be of a uniform reddish-brown color, and a moment later conspicuously mottled over its entire body. A striking fish that deserves a better name is the Spanish Hogfish (Harpe rufa), which comes from Florida and the West Indies. Violet-red above and yellow-orange below, its handsome coloration may have suggested its other name, Lady-fish; but with a rather pig-like snout, the first name clings in spite of all efforts to be showy. PUDDING WIFE (Iridio radiatus) 80 NEW YORK AQUARIUM RAINBOW PARROT-FISH (Pseudoscarus guacamaia) A fish well known to local anglers is the Blackfish or Tautog (Tautoga onitis), which is found along the Atlantic coast from Miaine to South Carolina. It is a permanent resident in New York waters where half a million pounds are caught yearly. The greatest weight of the blackfish is about twenty-two pounds. It is hardy in captivity and specimens have lived in the Aquarium seven years. The Cunner (Tautogolabrus adspersus), a near relative of the tautog, is a common species along the Atlantic coast as far south as New Jersey, and is abundant around Long Island all the year. It takes the hook readily and being found about wharves and bridges, great numbers are caught by anglers. The Pudding-wife (Iridio radiatus) is the largest of its genus, being sometimes eighteen inches in length. Specimens have lived eight years at the Aquarium. There is considerable difference between the adult male and female in this species, the former being largely olive, with the lower parts bluish-green, while the latter is bronze-olive, with the under parts pearly blue. The superficial differences between the sexes in fishes are usually not very noticeable. Florida and West Indies fauna. GUIDE BOOK 81 RED PARROT-FISH (S/arisoma abildgaardi) One of the smallest of the Iridios is the Slippery Dick (Iridio bivittatus), usually less than six inches long. Florida and West Indies, abundant about the reefs. The most striking in coloration of all the wrasses is the Bluehead (Thalassoma bifasciatus). The head is deep blue, the posterior half of the body green, sometimes taking on a yellow tinge. A slim but active little fish, it paddles its way about the tank with the pectoral fins only. It inhabits the reefs of Florida, Bermuda, Bahamas and West Indies. PARROT-FISHES-,-Scaridae. Several species of parrot-fishes are brought to the Aquarium. These fishes are so named from the character of their teeth, which are united in a solid mass in each jaw, forming a parrot-like beak. In large specimens, the so-called beak is very strong, having power to bite through a small fish hook. The largest of the parrot fishes is the Rainbow Parrot (Pseudoscarus guacamaia), which reaches a length of three feet. Its beak, which projects beyond the fleshy lips, is a bright blue. One of the most brilliant members of the family is the Blue Parrot (Scarus caeruleus), which has a uniformly turquoise-blue coloration. The Red Parrot (Sparisoma abildgaardi), and the Green Parrot (Spainsoma viride) are also brilliantly colored. The parrot-fishes 82 NEW YORK AQUARIUM....:....i.... I/ I! I SPADEFISH (Chaetodipterus faber) Photo by Dr. E. Bade are common in the West Indies region. Those brought to the Aquarium are usually obtained in Florida or the Bermudas. Like other tropical fishes, they are capable of mak BLUE ANGEL-FISH (Angelichthys isabelita) GUIDE BOOK 83 BLACK ANGEL-FISH (Pomacanthus arcuatus) FRENCH ANGEL-FISH (Pomacanthus paru) NEW YORK AQUARIUM FOUR-EYES (Chaetodon capistratus) ing remarkable, instantaneous changes in color. Among the West India islands they are used for food to some extent, but in Florida waters are but little valued. SPADEFISHES-Ephippidae. The Spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber) is a tropical species reaching the latitude of New York in summer. It is highly esteemed for food and reaches a weight of twenty pounds. Its favorite food at Trinidad is the Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia), and fishermen take it with Physalia for bait. The spadefish is much compressed laterally and is conspicuously marked with vertical black bands. It is a hardy species in captivity. It can change color instantly from white to black or to the banded phase shown here. ANGEL AND BUTTERFLY FISHES'-Chaetodontidae. One of the most beautiful and graceful inhabitants of the coral reefs of the West Indies is the Blue Angel-fish (Angelichthys isabelita), which is common in Florida and the Bermudas. Other species of angel-fishes are the Queen Angel-fish (Angelichthys ciliaris), Yellow-tailed Angel-fish (Angelichthys townsendi), Black Angel-fish (Pomacanthus arcuatus), and French Angel-fish (Pomacanthus paru). All GUIDE BOOK 85 {-FISH (Clhaetodon ocellatus) Radiograph of Butterfly-Fish by Dr. H, G. Piffard 86 NEW YORK AQUARIUM 71 -I " i DOCTOR FISH (Teuthis hepatcus) of these thrive in the Aquarium and the visitor will find them well worth observing. Nothing more charming among the smaller sea fishes can be found than the Four-eyes (Chaetodon capistratus), which inhabits the coral reefs of the entire West Indies region. Its name is appropriate, the large, white-ringed black spot near the tail being easily mistaken for the real eye when the fish is viewed not too closely. The eye is not only small but rather obscured by the dark line extending vertically across the head. The Four-eyes is brightly colored, active and decidedly pugnacious. It may often be seen picking minute crustaceans from other fishes. The Butterfly (Chaetodon ocellatus) is of similar appearance, but larger, while the eye-like spot is placed higher up and lacks the white ring. It has the same wide West Indian range, but wanders northward in summer to Long Island. A dozen butterflies may often be seen in the same tank. SURGEONFISHES-Teuthididae. The Blue Surgeon (Teuthis ccaeruleus), also called Blue GUIDE BOOK 87 LEATHER JACKET (Balistes carolinensis) Tang, receives its name from the sharp erectile spine or lancet which occupies a socket on each side of the tail. It can inflict serious wounds with its lancet and requires careful handling by the fisherman. Another species usually kept with it and similarly provided with a cutting lancet, is the Doctor Fish (Teuzthis hepatus). TRIGGERFISHES-Balistidae. Trigger fishes are so called because the second dorsal spine can be made to lock the first and hold it rigid. The Leather Jacket (Balistes carolinensiss) is one of these. It is taken for the Aquarium from local waters in summer, but is more abundant southward. The Queen Trigger-fish (Balistes vetula), of Florida and the West Indies, attracts instant attention on account of the brilliant blue markings on its head. The Ocean Turbot (Canthidermis mcaculatus) is the largest of the triggerfishes to be seen in our collections. It has the habit of swimming on its side at the surface, like the ocean sunfish (Mola. mola). Tropical; mostly in the open ocean. FILEFISUHES-Monacanthidae. Two species of file fishes enter New York Bay in summer: 88 NEW YORK AQUARIUM N: -1 QUEEN TRIGGERFISH (upper) and TRUNKFISH GUIDE BOOK 89: COWFISH (Lactophrys tricorniis) the common Filefish (Monacanthus hispidus), and the Orange Filefish (Aleutera schoepfii). The conspicuous dorsal spine in these fishes is armed with file-like barbs. The slow-moving orange filefish has the curious habit of swimming in an oblique position with head downward. The young are quite different in appearance from the adults, having oblique, broad black bands, while the adults hlck the bands and are conspicuously yellow. All kinds of file fishes have rough and leathery skiiis. TRUNKFISHES-Os traciidae. The Trunk-fish (Lactophrys triqueter), Buffalo Trunkfish (Lactophrys trigonus) and Cowfish (Lactophrys tricornis), might properly be called tortoises of the sea as they are similarly encased in hard shells. The Cowfish is so called from the conspicuous spines or horns which project forward from the top of the head. These fishes are remarkably hardy, and will live for two or three hours out of water. They have the habit in captivity of projecting the head above the surface and squirting water a few inches into the air. PUFFERS--Tetraodontidae. Fishes of especial interest are tile puffers or swell fishes. 90 NEW YORK AQUARIUM I---. ----------- L^--~-I-C--"-I-----~LI.-~-.--l----: ~ ~:::;" PUFFER (Spheroides inaculatus) Two of these, the Common Puffer (Spheroides maculatus) and the much larger Smooth Puffer (Lagocephialus laeevigatus), are found in New York Bay in summer. All puffers have power to inflate themselves with air and float PUFFER DISTENDED WITH WATER GUIDE BOOK 91 Photo by C. H. Townsend OCEAN SUNFISH (Mola mola) on the surface of the water. This is a protection against their enemies. They can also inflate themselves with water and have been observed to do so in aquarium tanks when attacked by larger fishes. When taken from the water in nets they inflate quickly and become almost globular. The air being retained by a valve in the throat, they can be tossed about in this condition for a time without discharging it in the least. The Southern Puffer (Spheroides spengleri) which is usually less than a foot in length, is often kept with our northern species. PORCUPINE FISHES"-Diodontidae. The Spiny Boxfish (Chilomycterus schoepfii) has almost. the same capacity of inflation as the puffer. It has the additional defense of numerous spines which become erect as the body inflates, making it a decidedly uncomfortable mouthful to any fish so unwise as to attempt to seize it. This fish, also called Porcupine, is abundant along our coast in summer. 92 NEW YORK AQUARIUM LONG SPINED SCULPIN (Myoxocephalus octodecimspinosus) The Porcupine-fish (Diodon hystrix) is the largest of the Atlantic species having the power of inflation, reaching a length of three feet. It is densely covered with sharp spines, which become erect when the body is tightly filled with air. The dried and inflated skin of this fish is a common object in the shops of curio dealers in the tropics. HEAD FISHES-Molidae. The Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola) is one of the world's most remarkable fishes, as well as one of the largest, being known to reach a weight of eighteen hundred pounds. An unusually small specimen, weighing one hundred and sixtyfive pounds, was brought to the Aquarium, where it lived only a short time, owing to injuries received during transportation. The ocean sunfish inhabits the warmer parts of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, wandering northward in summer. It occurs off the New Jersey and Long Island shores nearly every summer. It is a sluggish creature, and when basking at the surface is quite indifferent to the presence of man. Fishermen often prod it with their oars without greatly disturbing it. SCULPINS-Cottidae. Sculpins of several kinds are brought to the Aquarium, GUIDE BOOK 93 IJA SEA RAVEN (Hemitripterts anmeericanus) the comnmonest of w-hich is the Long-spined Sculpin (Myoxocephalus octoclecimn)spinosus). These fishes are edible but are mostly used for bait. A large sized sculpin, sometimes two feet in length, is the Sea Raven (Hemnlitriplerus amiericaxnus). It is subject to great variation in color, ranging from bright yellow to dark red. It is not often eaten, although the flesh is excellent. LUMP SUCKERS-Cyclopteridae. The appearance of the Lump Sucker (Cyclopterus lu7mpus) naturally suggests its name, being short and thick of body, fleshy and without scales, and provided with a sucking disk with which it adheres to rocks. It is a northern fish, sometimes taken on the New York coast, and has been exhibited at the Aquarium. BLANQUILLOS-Malacanthidae. An inhabitant of sandy and grassy bottoms, the Sandfish (iMalacanthus ph7tmieri), makes conspicuous tunnels through patches of eel-grass in which it lies with its head 94 NEWTV YORK AQUARIUM SANDFISH (Malacanthus plumieri) protruding. In the Aquarium, where the sandfish has lived for several years, it has cheerfully accepted a section of terracotta pipe in lieu of its favorite grassy tunnel. This fish comes from Florida and Bermuda, and is one of the few fishes with blue eyes. STAR GAZERS-Uranoscopidae. The Stargazer. (Astroscopus gattatus) somewhat resembling a sculpin in appearance, is well named, as its eyes look directly upward from its flat-topped head. It belongs TOADFISH (Opsanus tai) GUIDE BOOK 95 EEL-POUT (Zoarces anguillaris) to the middle Atlantic coast region and is found in New York Bay. TOADFISHES-Batrachoididae. The grotesque Toadfish (Opsanus tau) is found in all our bays from MIassachusetts, southward. Large specimens may be over a foot in length. It deposits its egg masses in empty shells, on pieces of sunken boards, or in tin cans, to all of which the eggs adhere, and the nest is guarded by the parent fish. It is a hardy creature and will live for hours out of the water. EEL-POUTS-Zoarcidae. The M[utton Fish or Eel Pout (Zoarces anguillaris) also called Ling, is kept in the Aquarium only during the colder months. It is almost eel-like in shape, and sometimes a yard long. It is often caught in large numbers in the vicinity of New York. The mutton fish is found from Delaware northward. GURNARDS-Triglidae. A most interesting fish is the Red-winged Sea Robin (Prionotus strigatus) which, from the great size of its 96 NEW YORK AQUARIUM RED WINGED SEA ROBIN (Prionotus strigatus) pectoral fins might pass for a flying fish. It is a very attractive species in the Aquarium often spreading its broad, showy wings. Sea robins are frequently taken in large numbers in the stationary pound nets along the coast and are common in New York Bay in snmminer. They are found in shallow water and have the habit of burying in the sand for concealment. These fishes are edible but not often used for food. A smaller species (Prionotus carolinus) is also found in New York waters. FLYING GURNARDS-Cephalacanthidae. Flying Gurnardcl (Cephalacanthus volitans). This fish, with pectoral fins larger than the sea robin, is found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, but is rare as far north as New York. It can sail in the air like the flying fishes but only for very short distances. REMORAS'-Echeneididae. The Shark Sucker (Echeneis nacucrates) also called Sucking-fish, attracts the attention of visitors to the Aquarium by clinging to the glass front, or the walls of its tank, by means of the peculiar sucking disc on the top of the head. It is the habit: of the sucking-fish to attach itself to sharks, turtles, porpoises, and even whales and ships. This habit has been followed so long that the fish has lost all capacity for an independent career. The powerful sucking disc has been developed at the expense of its independence, so that it has to be towed through the seas by creatures which cannot shake it off. This fish is met with in all warm seas, and GUIDE BOOK 97 ~wywj,,.,,, --. * ^ kill~ SHA- RK.....SU:CKER (Ec:he:ne; nic*rates) SI-IARK SUCKER (Echcneis -naucratcs) is found as far north in summer as Cape Cod. It is often brought into New York Bay by sharks. When placed in a pail of water, it instantly attaches itself to the vessel, from which it can only be dislodged with difficulty. When lifted by the tail under such conditions, its suction hold is sufficiently strong to raise both bucket and water from the ground. Two specimens were tested in the New York Aquarium, one lifting a pail with water weighing twentyone pounds, the other twenty-four pounds. They might, indeed, have lifted even greater weights. Natives of Africa and other countries have, by tying a cord to the tail of this fish, employed it in the catching of fish and turtles. CODFISHES-Gadidae. The Codfish (Gadlus callarias) is one of the most important food fishes in the world. Many millions of pounds are caught yearly by United States vessels, and still greater quantities are taken in Europe and Canada. It has been known to reach a weight of one hundred pounds and a length of six feet. On the Atlantic coast it ranges south as far as Virginia. The cod fishery of Alaska has developed into an important industry. Few fishes are more prolific than the cod. A seventy-five pound specimen may produce as many 98 NEW YORK AQUARIUM SPOTTED CODLING (Phycis regius) as nine millions of eggs. The shore cod fishery of the New England coast, threatened with exhaustion from over-fishing many years ago, has been re-established through the agency of government hatcheries. Other fishes of the cod family often to be seen in the Aquarium are the Pollack (Pollachius virens), Tomcod (Mficrogadus tomcod), White Hake (Urophycis tennis), and Squirrel I-Hake (Urophycis chuss). All of these are valuable food fishes, which equal the cod in edible qualities. The Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), like the cod, is found on both sides of the Atlantic and belongs to the same family. It is taken in great quantities in the same way. The only striking fish of the cod family is the Spotted Codling (Phycis regius), which has the heavily marked lateral line broken by fourteen conspicuous white spots. Prof. Agassiz observed electrical powers in this fish; It is rather rare in New York waters and has been taken from the shore out to a depth of one hundred and sixty-seven fathoms. FLOTUNDERS-Pleuron ectidae. The largest and best known flounder of the Atlantic coast GUIDE BOOK 99 ANGLER (Lophius piscatorius) is the Summer Flounder (Parclichthys dentatus). It is known as fluke in New York waters, where large numbers are taken by anglers as well as by commercial fishermen. It is abundant in summer, but disappears in winter. Probably the best flounder of our markets is the Winter Flounder (Ps.eudopleuronectes amnericanus), which is common around Long Island and extends along the Atlantic coast from Labrador to North Carolina. It is a large species and important numbers are propagated artificially by the Government. All flounders, from the great halibut down, are edible. Fishes of the flounder family are recognizable at once, as they have both eyes on the same side of the body. When very young, the eyes are on opposite sides of the head. Other species to be found in the Aquarium from time to time are the Four-spotted Flounder (Paralichthys oblongus), and Star Flounder (Lophopsetta maculata). ANGLERS-Lophiidae. The Angler (Lophius piscatorius), variously named Goosefish, Bellows-fish and Fishing-frog, is common along our shores. It is a voracious fish, with a very large mouth and specimens have been caught containing several wild ducks. Lying on the bottom and partly hidden in the sand, it lures FI5 a trj ncn GIANT SNAPPING TURTLES FROM THE LOWER MISSISSIPPI 102 NEW YORK AQUARIUM other fishes by a waving spine on top of the head. The angler lays its eggs in a mucous band nearly thirty feet long. FROG-FISHES-Antennariidae. The little toad-like Sargasso Fish (Pterophryne histrio), which inhabits the floating weed of the Gulf Stream, is sometimes drifted near the New York coast and has been brought to the Aquarium. It is always colored like the brownish weed masses in which it lives. TURTLE S Chelonia Some of the larger fresh-water turtles regularly taken for the market are called "sliders." One of these is the RedBellied Turtle (Chrysemys rubriventris) of the eastern states but not found north of New Jersey. It is easily recognized by the red color of the under shell, and grows to be about sixteen inches in length. The Cumberland Turtle (Chrysemys elegans) is the principal "slider" of the markets, and is found in the M1iddle States from Ohio to the Gulf coast. It may be recognized by the red blotch on the side of the head. The Yellow-bellied Slider (Chrysemys scabra), found from Virginia to Georgia has a yellow patch behind the eye which serves to identify it. A number of other species of fresh-water turtles are brought to the Aquarium from the south and west. The Mud Turtle (Cinosternum pennsylvanicum) is of the same size and has about the same distribution as the musk turtle. Unlike some of the other pond turtles which winter in the mud at the bottom of ponds, this species is believed to winter in dry ground. All turtles lay their eggs in small holes, which they excavate in earth or sand, and the young are left to shift for themselves. The widely distributed Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) is the largest species of the northern states and Canada, sometimes weighing as much as sixty pounds. It is a well known turtle, much used for food, and not uncommonly found in the markets. The snapping turtle is decidedly carnivorous and is voracious and dangerous to handle. It lays round eggs, whereas most native turtles lay eggs of oval form. GUIDE BOOK 103 SNAPPING TURTLE (Chelydra serpentina) Largest of United States fresh-water turtles is the Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys lacertina) of the lower Mississippi and rivers of the Gulf States. The Aquarium has had specimens weighing one hundred pounds, and it is known to reach a weight of about one hundred and forty pounds. It is fully as vicious as the northern snapping turtle, and has jaws powerful enough to break off an ordinary broom handle. It is used for food, and is often sold in southern markets. A species rather common in the northern states from Massachusetts to Wisconsin is Blanding's Turtle (Emnys blandingi), which has the feet partly webbed, but lives rather more on land than in the water. The lower shell is hinged somewhat like that of the box tortoise, partly enclosing the head and legs. The upper shell of this species is about eight inches long. It spends much time on land searching for berries and other food not obtainable in the water. The Map Turtle (Mfala.coclemmys geographica), having about the same distribution as the Blanding Turtle, is so called from the numerous yellow lines which cover the top 104 YORK AQUARIUM BLANDING'S TURTLE (Emnys blandingii) Sv"fi'-SHELLED TURTLE (Trionyx spinifer) GUIDE BOOK 105 'if "^ " ---. * ~ - - c l- 1;K::'1*~:*/!::*; 1- '*.; - "; *, ^* ' '~-i u -:-^. ^.^ ^^^^^. ^ -, *,, '.:" "*.*:;.*' ''''.: 't; WOOD TURTLE -(Chelopus insculptus) shell. It reaches a length of ten inches and is often used for food. The jaws of this species are rather heavy, and it feeds largely on fresh-water mollusks. In some of our native turtles the shell is soft and flexible and the neck decidedly long. The Soft-shelled Turtle (Trionyx spinifer), also called Leather-back, is usually to be seen in the Aquarium, and is found throughout the northern states. The length of its upper shell is sometimes fourteen inches, and the species is much used for food. The soft-shelled turtle has very sharp jaws and is a dangerous biter. It lives well in captivity when sand is placed in the bottom of its tank in which it can hide and cleanse itself. A much larger species which comes from the Gulf Coast region is the Southern Soft-shelled Turtle (Trionyx ferox). The Aquarium has specimens with the top shell eighteen inches long. It is often sold in the markets for food. Softshelled turtles like muddy bottom and seldom leave the water except to deposit their eggs. They are all very active and predaceous. The Wood Turtle (Chelopus insculptus), which lives 10G.NEW YORK AQTT.T.JUM BOX TORTOISE (Terrapene carolina) more on land than in the water, belongs in the northeastern states from Maine to Ohio. Its top shell measures about. eight inches. The fleshy parts of the turtle are brick red. It feeds largely on vegetable matter and winters in dry earth under leaf mould. The Box Tortoise (Terrapene carolina) is not an aquatic species and properly does not belong among the exhibits of the Aquarium, although it is often received there. It is widely distributed throughout the eastern and middle states. It is a strictly land species, wintering and laying its eggs in dry ground. It is quite variable in coloration, feeds. largely on toadstools and other plant life, and is a useful destroyer of insect pests. In the box tortoise the lower shell is hinged, affording complete protection to the head and legs when they are drawn in. The Diamond-back Terrapin (Malaclemmys centrata concentrica) is an inhabitant of the salt marshes from Massachusetts to Texas. This is the epicure's turtle, and is by far our most valuable species. It is yearly becoming scarcer GUIDE BOOK 107 TEXAS DIAMOND-BACKED TERRAPIN Malaclemys pileata littoralis Albino specimen from Texas. and higher priced. Attempts are now being made to increase the supply by collecting and raising the young. There is a remarkable differefice in size between the males and females. The former are always of small size, while the latter may reach nine inches in length. Large-sized diamondbacks are now worth several dollars apiece. The most abundant pond turtle of the eastern states is the Painted Turtle (Chrysemys pictc), which is found all the way from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. It is easily identified by the crimson markings around the edge of the upper shell. It is always a rather small species, the top shell seldom exceeding six inches in length. It eats both vegetable and animal food. The Spotted Turtle (Chelopus guttatus), of the northeastern states-from Maine to Indiana, may be known by the small, bright yellow spots on top of the shell. Although found in ponds and small streams everywhere, it is never so abundant as the painted turtle, and is always of small size. It feeds largely on aquatic insects. 108 NEW YORK AQUARIUM I-~-------- ~ ~-~~:-:::: 'i;I SPOTTED TURTLE (Chelopus guttatus) _I~__:-::;:~-~ ~I t:. I ji,-~ii63p~zup~e~,~a~l;,,i MUHLEITBERG'S TURTLE (Chelopius in uhlenbergii) GUIDE BOOK 109 MATAMATA TURTLE (Chelys fimlbriata) MVnhlenberg,'s Turile (Ohelopus mrrufblenbergii) is our rarest species, being apparently restricted to southern New York, northern New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. It is sometimes found near New York City. This is one of the very small turtles, seldom exceeding three and a half inches in length. It may be recognized by the bright orange spot on the side of the head. It is a species which often leaves the water. Another very small species is named from the musky odor which it gives off when handled. The Musk Turtle (Arom'ochelys odoractus) is thoroughly aquatic, seldom leaving the water. This little turtle is widely distributed in the eastern United States and the young are the hardiest of all small turtles in captivity. Like the large snapping turtle, it is a vicious biter. Matamata or Bearded Turtle (Chelys finmbridata). There is no rougher-shelled turtle than the MtAatainata, whose top shell, with its heavy ridges, is suggestive of a relief map. It has no near turtle relatives and occupies a genus by itself. It reaches a large size and inhabits the tropical rivers of Brazil and the Guianas. The Matamata is one of the numerous species of tropical turtles, whose neck is folded 110 NEW YORK AQUARIUM HAWKSBILL TURTLE (Eretmochelys imbricata) sideways when withdrawn under the shell. The head and neck when extended are longer than the top shell. Largest of all fresh-water turtles is Podocnemis expansa of the Amazon River whose upper shell reaches a length of three feet. The Aquarium has had specimens nearly two feet long. It is an important article of food to the natives, who also dig its eggs from the sand banks, literally by the million. I-andsomest of the sea turtles is the I-Iawksbill or Tortoise-shell (Eretmochelys imbricata) of the tropical seas. Specimens from Florida or the Bermudas are usually to be seen in the Aquarium. This is the species which yields the valuable tortoise shell of commerce, and it has been much persecuted in consequence. It is named hawksbill from the shape of its beak. The hawksbill grows very large and specimens have been found in which the top shell had a length of three feet. The Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), highly valued as a food species, is the most important of the sea turtles, about $50,000 worth being taken yearly in our southern states. Live green turtles are always to be seen in the turtle pool and a cast of a specimen weighing seven hundred pounds. GUIDE BOOK ill 'K.: -~ ATLANTIC GREEN TURTLE (Chelonia mydas) that died in the Aquarium, may no0w be seen on the wall. This turtle was the largest ever taken by the dealers at Key West, Florida, where it was captured. In suummer the green LEATHERBACK TURTLE (Sphargis coriacea) NEW YORK AQUARIUM T-, Mi - 1: i.... i r | -. i'. -. ", ' ' r " ALLIGATOR (Alligator mississippiensis) turtle often wanders north to the latitude of New York. It feeds largely on sea weeds. It is remarkably hardy and lives many years in captivity. A Pacific Green Turtle (COlelonia virgata), brought to the Aquarium in 1900, when almost small enough to put in one's hat, lived here for fifteen years. The Loggerhead Turtle (Thalassochelys caretta) is believed to grow even larger than the green turtle. The flesh of the young is, however, more often used for food than that of the adults. The loggerhead visits the adjacent coast in summer. The largest of all marine turtles is the Leatherback or Trunk Turtle (Sphargis coriacea). A cast from a specimen weighing eight hundred and forty pounds, which died in the Aquarium, is on exhibition here. The leatherback is an inhabitant of tropical seas, wandering north every summer to the latitude of New York. The fore flippers of this turtle are proportionately much longer than in any other sea ry. sand ab species. All sea turtles lay their eggs in dry sand above tide mark. Their eggs are unfortunately so much used for food that the abundance of sea turtles is greatly reduced in con-cquence. None of the sea turtles ever leave the water except the females, which come ashore only to deposit their eggs. GUIDE BOOK 113 r I ~- i, 1 ~/: i, r -;; ';I i 'i: I I i i-: ~~: I:I i, 1 5--:: i; AMERICAN CROCODILE (Crocodilus americanus) CROCODILES AND ALLIGATORS Crocodilia In the crocodile pool will be found the Alligator (Alligator mssiissippiensis) of our South Atlantic and Gulf States. The largest specimen, now eleven feet long, has been in the building thirteen years and has grown very little during that period. The young grow rapidly when kept in warm water. In a tank with the water temperature at eighty degrees, they will grow five feet long in as many years. The alligator is now being exterminated for its valuable leather, and it is to be regretted that thousands of young alligators are brought north yearly by tourists, only to perish in the winter time, as they, are seldom cared for properly. A specimen of the American Crocodile (Crocodilus am.er'icanus), taken in southern Florida, has lived in the Aquarium many years. This genus is easily distinguishable from the alligator by its narrow head and rather pointed snout, the snout of the alligator being very broad. The eggs of the crocodile, like those of the alligator, are deposited in mounds of grass and decayed vegetation, and after hatching the young shift for themselves. 114 NEW YORK AQUARIUM