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XIV. An account of the Fishes of the States of Central America, based on collections
made by Capt. J. M. Dow, F. Godjian, Esq., and O. Salvix, Esq. By Albert
GtJNTHEH, M.A., M.I)., Ph.I)., F.H.S., F.Z.S.
Ecad March 22iid, 186-1, and December 13th, 1SG6.
[Plates LXTII. to LXXXVIL]
§ 1. Introductory Historical Bemarks on the Collections forming the basis of this
Memoir.
Before proceeding to the enumeration and description of the fislies known to exist
in the States of Central America, I may be permitted briefly to notice the circumstances
which enable me to submit to the Society the results contained in the present memoir.
Mr. Salvin started in the year 1859 on his second excursion to Guatemala, chiefly
with the intention of working out the ornithological fauna of that country. But having
had his attention directed by me to the fact that its cold-blooded vertebrates were almost
entirely unknown, he made and brought home a small collection of reptiles and fresh-
water fishes, which proved to be of sufficient interest to encourage him to pay still, more
attention to this subject on a third excursion, which he undertook in company with Mr.
Godman in the year 1861. By far the greater part of the materials which form the
basis of this memoir were obtained on this occasion. Not only did the two travellers
extend their excursions to various parts of Guatemala, but Mr. Salvin also visited
Panama, where he met and collected in company with Capt. Dow, of the Panama
Railway Company's Steamer ' Guatemala.'
Capt. Dow, indeed, had commenced to collect fishes previously to this, lla^•ing sent
several collections to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, and to the Zoological
Society of London, whence they were transferred to the British Museum; and foi^the
last three years he has continued his researches with such zeal and liberality that I
cannot abstain from acknowledging here the great services he has rendered to the cause
of science.
The collections made by these gentlemen contained not less than about 1500 examples,
ni a perfect state of preservation, many of considerable size. In addition to these, I
have examined a few which had been purchased of a dealer for the British Museum
having been collected at Puerto Cabello in the Bay of Honduras, and, finally, those
collected by Dr. Seemann, originally deposited in the CoUection of Haslar Hospital,
and now in the Britisli Museum. The latter have lost much of their scientific value, as,
unfortunately, no record was kept of the localities where they were obtained ; and only
in a few cases have I been able to avail myself of specimens of this collection, viz. where
the original label, with the name of the collector, has been accidentally preserved.
VOL. VI. — P.VRT VII. ' 3 g
378 DE. GiJXTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
^ 2. ToiwrjrapMcnl Features of the Localities explored.
As regards the topographical features of the localities explored by Messrs. Dow,
Godnian, and Salvin, I have been favoured by the latter gentleman, by whom also the
accompanying map has been prepared, with the following notes : —
Lakes.
Amatitlan.— The Lake of Amatitlan is situated in lat. 14° 29' N., long. 90" 35' W., in
the Republic of Guatemala. Its elevation above the sea-level is about 4500 feet. Being
only a short distance on the southern side of the main ridge, it collects the waters of a
few small streams, which it discharges at its southern extremity, into the river Michatoya,
a mountain-torrent for half its course, then expanding, like all the rivers of Guatemala
which flow into the Pacific, into a broad shallow stream with a shifting sandy bed.
The lake is very deep, and its water clear. The volcanoes of Pacaya and Agua rise
amongst the mountains of its southern border, the whole forming a landscape of great
beauty. Fish are caught during the rainy season near the outlet into the river
Michatoya, and are sent to the market of the City of Guatemala.
Atitlan. — The Lake of Atitlan is elevated 5000 feet above the sea. Like the last-
mentioned it lies in Guatemala on the southern side of the main ridge, in lat. 14° 43' N.,
long. 91° 14' W. It has no visible outlet. The Avater is clear and fresh, and the lake of
great depth. The hills on three sides attain to a height of 2000 feet above the lake.
On its southern border the two large volcanoes of Tollman and S. Pedi'o rise, theii' bases
being washed on one side by the lake, giving one the idea that one of them (that called
Toliman) has in rising acted as a dam and stopped the outflow of the waters of a
mountam-valley. A few small streams enter the lake, the water of which rises during
the rainy season, to fall again in the dry. On the mountain-slope below, several streams
take their rise, supplied probably by the filtration of water from the lake ; but it would
appear, from the alteration of the water-level in accordance with the season of the year,
that it is chiefly influenced by evaporation. A number of Indian villages surround the
lake ; at one of them, Panajachel, a small collection of fish was made. Fish never seem
to grow to any size in this lake, the Mojara (Ileros) being quite diminutive. The
Indians fish with round nets amongst the reeds that grow at the mouths of small
streams. The lake itself is about twenty-two miles long, and twelve miles wide.
DuENAS. — This lake is little more than a depression in one of the elevated (5000 ft.)
plams forming the tablelands of Guatemala. Its depth is nowhere more than 6 feet,
and its banks are everywhere clothed with reeds. A small stream connects the lake with
the river Guacalate. Here, too, fish are caught by the Indians in romid nets, which are
held by both hands, pushed in amongst the reeds, and suddenly brought to the surface.
HuAMUCHAL. — This name applies properly to a series of small lakes situated in about
lat. 14° 32' N.,long. 92° 13' W., close to one another, about six miles from the mouth of
the river Tilapa on the Pacific coast. The place is not shoA\Ti on any map ; but it is near
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 379
the large Lake of Taniachian, with which, in the rainy season, all these smaller lakes are
connected. During this period of the year the river Tilapa overfows its banks and
inundates tlie whole country round. In the dry season water remains in depressions of
the land, forming the lagoons of Huamuchal ; but in years of great drought even these
dry up, the fish being destroyed ; but a fresh supply finds its way from Lake Tamachian
during the next inundation. The water is slightly brackish. The fish are taken in
drag-nets, salted, and sold to Indians coming from the Altos of Guatemala.
Maxagua.— According to Mr. J. Bailey this lake is about fifty or sixty miles long, by
tliirty-fi\e miles wide. Its depth varies from 2 to 10 and 15 fathoms, but in its deepest
part reaches to as much as 40 fathoms. Its elevation above the sea is 156 feet. On its
south-western border the lake is separated from the Pacific by a series of comparatively-
low hills, the lowest section of which, through the Plain of Leon, is only 230 feet above
the ocean-level. The high mountains of the Republic of Honduras approach the nortli-
eastem border of the lake. On its south-eastern side an opening communicates with
the Lake of Nicaragua. Commencing with the Fall of Tipitapa, of 22 feet heiglit, the
river widens into the Estero of Panaloya, and thence into the larger lake.
Nicaragua. — The same authority gives a length of one hundred and five miles to this
lake, and a width of about forty-five, its depth being about 15 fathoms. The surface of
the lake is studded with numerous islands, some of them, as Omotepec, being volcanic
cones. The elevation of the lake above the mean ocean-level is given as 128 feet. The
same line of low hills which divides Lake Managua from the Pacific separates Lake
Nicaragua from the same ocean ; but at no point is the elevation so low as at that above
indicated. The river San Juan, a deep stream with several rapids, flows out of the
south-eastern end of the lake, and falls into the Atla:,;'- OrPnn. nf the port of Gn-v-
town, or San Juan del Norte.
Petex. — The Lake of Peten is situated in lat. 17° W ^., long. l'0° ^^ ., and is one wi
several lakes formed at the base of the Promontory of Yucatan. Its length is about thirty
miles, its width eight miles, and elevation above the sea 500 feet. The water is quite
fresh, clear, and of considerable depth. Neither the Lake of Peten nor the adjoining Lake
of Yasha has any outlet ; and in both the water is rapidly mcreasing in expanse — so much
so that several streets of the toAvn of Flores, which stands on an island in Lake Peten,
have been absorbed within a few years, and the posts of huts, Avhich formerly were on
dry ground, may now be seen standing in deep water. This increase of water can onlv
be accounted for by supposing that a common subterranean outlet has been stopjied up,
or that the land of this district is experiencing a gradual subsidence. All the fish
obtained here were caught with a hook and line, or speared. All the natives, even quite
small cliildren, are very expert in using a light spear formed of bamboo cane with an
iron barb at tlie end.
YzABAL.— This lake, which is also called the Golfo Dulce, is about thirty or forty
miles long, and ten to fifteen miles wide, and has a tolerably uniform depth of about 35
3 G 2
380 DE. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
to 40 feet. It is situated in lat. 15° 30' N., long. 89° 15' W., at the bottom of the Bay of
Honduras. One large river, the Polochic, enters this lake ; and it has a narrow but deep
outlet to the sea, called the Eio Dulce, which is navigated by small schooners plying
between Belize and the town of Yzabal. It was near this last-mentioned place that a
few species of fish were obtained.
Bivers.
BayAx\o. — lliis is a river which rises in the narrow part of Central America, and flows
into the Pacific a little to the southward of the Bay of Panama.
Cahabon. — The town of Cahabon, where a few fishes were obtained, is situated on an
affluent of the river which bears this name. The main stream rises in the same marsh
as the Polochic, but takes another valley, in Vera Paz, and again joins the Polochic,
when they both flow into the Lake of Yzabal, and thence into the Atlantic.
Chagres. — This is the principal river of the Isthmus of Panama. It flows into the
Atlantic. The fish were obtained near the railway bridge at Barbacoas, about halfway
across the isthmus.
Chisoy. — Of the numerous names this river bears, I have chosen this for the principal
stream which forms the large river that flows out into the Laguna de los Terminos, in
the Bay of Campeachy. This branch is also known as the Rio Negro ; and after
receiving the water of the Rio de la Pasion, or Rio de Santa Isabel, as it is also called,
the two are usually called the Usumacinta. Fishes were collected from this river near the
Indian village of Cubulco ; and a number were also procured by poisoning with herbs a
small stream near Saouchil, an Indian village below the town of Cohan, in Vera Paz.
GuACALATE. — Is One of the numerous rivets which drain the southern watershed of the
main ridge into the Pacific. It flows past Antigua, the old capital of Guatemala. Fishes
were obtained about 3500 feet aboA^e the sea, where the river is still quite a torrent.
MoTAGUA. — This river, the second largest in Guatemala, rises in the main ridge, and
flows, with high mountains on either side, nearly due eastward into the Atlantic. Fishes
abound in this river ; and nearly every year a considerable length is poisoned, and a
large quantity obtamed. On one of these occasions a collection was made a little below
the bridge over which the highroad from Guatemala to Vera Paz passes. Another
collection came from lower down the stream, below the village of Tocoy.
San Geronimo. — Is a tributary of the Chisoy before mentioned. A small collection
was made near the village of San Geronimo, in a plain at the foot of the mountains
whence it takes its rise.
Santa Isabel. — A small stream flowing into this river, one of the principal branches of
the Usumacinta, was poisoned, and a number of small fishes obtained.
San Salvador. — A few small fishes were caught by Capt. Dow in a warm stream near
the capital town of this republic.
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 381
Marine localities.
Belize. — All fishes from Belize were from the market, and were caught amongst the
coral reefs which line this coast.
Cardox' Island. — Is situated at the mouth of the fine harbour of Realejo, in Nica-
ragua. Fishes were found at low tide in the pools amongst the rocks, and caught with
a landing-net.
CliiAPAM. — The whole coast of Guatemala, bordering the Pacific Ocean, is studded
with a number of lagoons formed at the mouths of the numerous rivers which How
down from the neighbouring mountains. All these rivers are charged with volcanic
sand, which is thrown back by the heavy surf that rolls in on this coast. The body of
water brought down during the dry season is often insufficient to reduce this sandbar;
and it frequently happens that all outlet to the sea is stopped. The accumulation of
water during the rainy season breaks this barrier ; but it again forms when the water
subsides. About the period of the cessation of the rains the natives cut an artificial
channel, which, at first widening of itself, often remains open some months, each tide
bringing a great quantity of fishes into the lagoon, whicli are there netted by drag-nets.
The water is almost salt, but varies in this respect according to the size of the river
which enters it. A few fishes were also obtained by a hook and line from a canoe in
the open sea.
LiBERTAD. — This is an open roadstead, the port of the City of San Salvador. A\'hilst
we were lying at anchor here a few fishes were caught with a hook and line.
Panama. — Most of the fishes taken in the Bay of Panama were found in the pools
amongst the rocks at low tide. A reef running out from the town was an excellent
locality ; one spring tide Capt. Dow and I secured twenty-four species in the course of
half an hour.
San Jose. — Is the port of Guatemala on the Pacific side ; a few fishes were caught
here in the open sea in a canoe.
§ 3. Definition of the Boundaries of the Fauna treated of in this Mtrnoir.
Although we may presume that our account contains a tOier; hly complete list of the
species inhabiting the localities visited, particularly as on several occasions poison (the
best means for securing a complete series of the fishes of a certain locality) was resorted
to, yet there is still a wide field for future explorers in a country where several forms
(such as Heros, Pimelodus, and the Cijprinodontes) are so much developed and specialized.
Of the fishes of Yucatan we still know absolutely nothing. The list of the marine fishes
of the Atlantic coast will, without doubt, be considerably swelled, as the gentlemen
mentioned paid much less attention to the Atlantic marine fauna (which would have
yielded comparatively few novelties) than to the freshwater fiiuna. And knowing how
little advantage is derived from, and how much confusion is caused by, receivuig into a
' Tliis name is misspelt " Cardova" in several places in the 3rd volume of the ' Catalogue of Fishes.' — A. G.
382 DE. GUNTHEE 0\ THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
fauna species which may be expected to belong to it, although they are not yet disco-
vered within its limits, I have excluded all species not actually known from Guatemala,
although they have been obtained north and south of it. A collection made by Mr.
Godman at Belize was of great value in determining this part of the fauna.
Numerous species of fishes have been described from Mexico' ; and if we were better
acfiuainted wdth their geographical distribution, it would have been useful to treat at
least of the southern portion of them, in conjunction with the Guatemalan species.
Unfortunately but a small proportion of tlie exact localities are known, so that at
present no line can be drawn to indicate where the preponderance of nearctic types
over tropical ones terminates. Thus, confining myself to the fishes occurring between
the political boundary of Guatemala in the nortli and the Isthmus of Darien in the
south, I would repeat that, previously to the receipt of the collections forming the basis
to this Memoir, only a small number had been described, as will be seen from the
following remarks : —
(^S 4. Historical account cjf Publications previous to this Memoir.
It would be of but little advantage to enumerate the few isolated species incidentally
described in general works or memoirs as occurring in Guatemala or Panama. How-
ever, I must mention that the first traveller who collected fishes in these states appears
to have been Baron von Friedrichsthal. I am not aware that any account of his
travels has been published ; but in a paper published by the late Jacob Heckel in
'Annalen des Wiener Museums,' vol. ii. 1840, a single species is described, which is
stated to be from Friedrichsthal's Central-American Collection, and which I have
recognized as belonging to the Lake-Peten fauna {Ileros friedrichsthalii). The greater
part of the collection made by this gentleman evidently remained unpublished until
1864, when Dr. F. Steixdachner determined from it four other species (Denkschr.
^Akad. Wiss. Wien, xxiii.), viz. : — Hcros urophthcdmus (Gthr.), Heros triagrawimi--H.
salmm{Gt\iv.), Heros melanopogon, and Fctenia splendida (Gthr.). As we have received
four of these species from Lake Peten, it is very probable that Baion Friedrichsthal
visited and collected in that locality.
In the second place I have to mentioirD*', Sekmann, who, as naturalist attached to
the expedition of the ' Herald,' brought to England a collection of Central-American
fishes. These, as I have mentioned above, were originally deposited in the collection of
Haslar Hospital, but no record as regards the origin of the specimens was kept, so
that most of them are lost for the purposes of this Memoir.
In the year 18G1 I received the first collections from Mr. Salvin and Capt. Dow.
Tlie species belonging to the families treated of in the 3rd volume of the ' Catalogue of
Fishes ' were described therein ; and a separate account of those sent by the latter
' Prof. Troschel enumerates some 130 frcsliwuter and marine species in Miiller's ' Eeisen in den Yereinigten
Staaten," &c.
DE. aUNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA. 38:3
gentleman from the Pacific Coast of Central America was published in the Society's
' Proceedings ' for 18G1 (Nov. 26) ; it contained fourteen species, ten of which were new.
In the following year the 4th volume of the ' Catalogue of Fishes ' was publislied,
containing the descriptions of those species of Pharyngognaths and Anacanthines whitli
had arrived from our travellers, who were then engaged in collecting.
In the year 1863 Mr. Gill published a descriptive enumeration of a collection of
" Fishes from the western coast of Central America, presented to the Smithsonian
Institution by Capt. J. M. Dow." He distinguished in it the following twenty-tive
species, of which I consider eighteen to have been new to science (Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc.
Philad. 1863, p. 162):—
1. I)ia2)teri(s dowii, sp. n.= Ger>rs dovii.
2. Pomacanthodes zonipectus. Gill.
3. Centro])Oiniis armatus, sp. n.
4. Epinephelus analogus, STp.n.=Serrani(s analog us.
5. Promicropterus decoratiis, sY).n.=Phi/2)t9Cus decorattis.
6. Bairdiella armata, s\).n. = Corvina armata.
7. Opkioscion typicus, s]).n. = Corvina ophiosdon.
8. Amblyscion argenteus, sp. n.
9. Caratwc imnamensis, G\]l,=-Carana- speciosus (Forsk.).
10. Caravgoides dorsalis, sp. n.
11. Carangus marginaftcs, Gi[\,=: Caranw hippos, L., var.
12. Oligoplites inornatus, sp. n. = Chorinemus inornafus.
13. Kvoccefus dowii, sp. n.
14. aJUdactylus, sp. n. '? = ^. bahiensis (Kanz.).
15. Upeneus grandisquamis, sp. n.
16. Trichidion opercularis, sp. n.=iPolynemus opercularis.
17. approocimans=Polynemus approximans (Lay & Benn.).
18. Mugil guentlierii, Gill, = il/. brasiliensis (Agass.).
19. Batrachoides pacijici=. Batraclms pacifici ((jthr.).
20. Dormitator microphthahms. Gill, = Eleotris macidata (Bl.).
21. Leptarius dowii, sp. n.=^n»s dovii.
22. Sciades troschelii, sp. \\.^=Arms troschelii.
23. jElurichthys panamensis, sp. n.
_ - 24. Atractosteus tropicus, s^.n.-=Lepidosteus tropicus.
25. JJrotrygon mundus, sp. n.
At later periods Mr. Gill has described some other species incidentally, which will be
referred to in the gen(>ral list.
A small collection made by Prof. M. Wagner on the Isthmus of Panama, between
T and 9' lat. N., and 77^" and 83" long. W., was examined by Messrs. Kxkr & Stkix-
384 DE. GtNTHEE OX THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
DACiLVEK, who gave a preliminary account of it in ' Sitzgsber. bayer. Akad. Wiss.' 1863,
pp -220-230, and more detailed descriptions in 'Abhandl. bayer. Akad. Wiss.' 1864(1865),
„,, l-Ol. Prof. M. Wagner added, besides, a detailed account of the hydi-ographical
peculiarities of this part of Central America (pp. 65-92). The species treated of in
these Memoirs are the following : —
1. Pristipoma humile, sp. n.
2. Dajaus elongatus (K. & St.)=Ag(mostoma msuUim (Gthr.).
3. Dajaus monticola (C. & V.).
4. Acara ccerideopunctata, sp. n.
5. Heros altifrons, sp. n.
6. Heros sieboldii, sp. n.
7. Meotris pictus, sp. n.
8. Engraulis macrolepidotus, sp. n.
9. poey?-, sp. n.
10. Xijjhophorus gillii, K. & St., = P(edlia, sp. ?
11. Macrodon brasiliensis^K. & St.,=l/. microlepis (Gthr.).
12. Saccodon wagneri, STp. n. — , l^c
13. Pseudochalceus lineatus, sp. n.
14. Chalcino])sis striatulus, sp. n.
15. chagrensis, sp. n.
16. Chalceus atrocaudatus, sp. n.
17. Tetragonopterus ceneiis (Gthr.).
18. gronovii (C. & V. "?).
19. Bagrus {l)arioides, sp. n.=Anus multiradiatns (Gthr.).
20. Pimeludus modestus (Gthr.)
21. dnerascens (K. & St.)=P. wagneri (Gthr.).
22. Loricaria uracantha, sp. n.
23. lima (Kner).
24. Hypostomus plecostomus (K. & St.) =Plecostomus, sp.
25. Ancistrus drrhosus (C. & V.).
26. Acanthias vulgaris (Rissol).
Finally, having received in 1864 the last collections made by Messrs. Godman & Salvin,
1 gave preliminary notices of the new species in the ' Proceedings ' of this Society, em-
bodying the numerous contributions to our knowledge of the Siluroids and Characinoids
in the fifth volume of the ' Catalogue of Fishes,' to which were added the Cyprinodonte.s
and Scombresocides in the sixth (1865-66).
§ 5. General List of Central-American Fishes.
After these introductory remarks on the contributions to the ichthyology of Central
DR. GtNTHER OX THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMERICA.
385
America preceding this Memoir, I at once proceed to give a list of all the species known
to exist in these countries. There are comparatively few which I do not know from
autopsy; their names are printed in italics. An asterisk (*) marks those which are
described or remarked upon. The second column contains chiefly the names of the
localities where they have been found within the limits of Central America ihe
localities of species occurring on both sides of the Isthmus are prmted m italics; ot
these I shall treat again subsequently. Finally, the letter M signifies that a species is
marine, B that it is known fi-om brackish, and F that it is from fresh water.
ACANTHOPTERYGII.
Fam. PERCID^.
Centropomus, Cuv. t? s at
1. *appendiculatus, Poey . • • Chagres R. (Cuba, Mex., Suriu.) ^Sc^L
2. *mediiis, Gthr Chiapam
3. *nigi-escens, Gthr Chiapam
4. *parallelus, Poey Chagres R. (W. Indies, Bahia) ....
5. *armatus, Gill Chiapam
6. *ensiferus, Poey Belize (Cuba, Jamaica, Guyanas) . . .
Centropristis, Bris. de Barnev.
7. *maeropoma, Gthr Panama
Serran'us, Cuv.
8. *creolus, C. 6c F. Atl.S^-Pac
9. striatus, Bl. ...:.■ Atlant
10. coronatus, C. ^ F Atlant
11. undulosus, C.^F. .... Atlant
12. *sellicauda, Gill Pacific Coast
13. *analogus, Gill Pacific Coast
Plectropom-v, Cuv.
U. *afrum, Bl ^t'- ^- ^«c
Rhyptictjs, Cuv.
15. *decoratus, GJ// Pacific Coast ^
Mesoprion, Cuv.
16. chrysurus, Bl Atlant
17. griseus, C. i,- F. Ail. ^f Pac
18. uninotatus, C. i^ V. . . • • Atl. 8f Pac
19. *aratus, Gthr Chiapam, Panama
20. vivanus, C. i^' V. Atlant
Apogon, Lacep.
21. *dovii, Gthr Pacific Coast
. . B.
. F. & M.
. . B.
. . B.
. . M.
. . M.
. . M.
. . M.
. . M.
. . M.
. . M.?
. . M.
. M.
. M.
. M.
M. & B.
. M.
M.
VOL. VI. PART VII.
3h
386 DE. GlJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMEEICA.
Fam. PRISTIPOMATID.^.
Pristipoma, Cuv.
22. *melauopterum, C. ^ V. . . Ail. ^ Pac M.
23. *vu-ginicum, L Atl. ^ Pac M.
24. *dovii, Gtkr Panama M.
25. *chalceum, Gthr Panama M.
26. *hmiiile, Kner & Steiud. . Rio Bayano F.
27. *macracantlmm, Gthr. . . Chiapam B.
28. crocro, C. Sf V. , Rio Motagua (Trop. Amer., Atlant.) . . . F., B., & M.
29. *leuciscus, Gthr San Jose, Chiapam, Panama B.
CoNODON, C. ^ V.
30. *pacifici, Gthr Chiapam B.
HiEMULON, Cuv.
31. chromis, Brouss Atlant M.
32. canna, C. If V. Atlant M.
33. xanthopterum, C. if V. . . . Atlant M.
34. *brevu'ostrum, Gthr. . . . Panama, Puerto Cabello M.
35. *margaritiferum, Gthr. . . Panama M.
LOBOTES, Cuv.
36. auctorum, Gthr Atlant. {India) B.
Fam. SQUAMIPINNES.
Ch^todon, Cuv.
37. striatus, L Atlant M.
38. capistratus, L Atlant M.
39. *humeralis, Gthr Panama (Sandwich Isl.) M.
POMACANTHUS, LuCCp.
40. paru, Gthr Atlant. (Colon) M.
41. *zonipectus,G'\\\ Pac M.
Ephippus, Cuv.
42. faber, Bl Atlant. (Belize) M.
Fam. MULLID.E.
Upeneus, C. Sf V.
43. *tetraspilus, Gthr Panama M.
44. *ffrandlsquainLi, Gill . . . Panama M.
Fam. SPARID.F;.
Sargus, Cuv.
45. unimaculatus, Bl Atlant. (Belize) M.
46. ai-ies, C. If V. Atlant. (Belize) M.
Chrysophrys, Cuv.
47. *calamus, C. if V. All. if Pac. (Panama) M.
PiMELEPTERUS, CuV.
48. boscii, Lacep Atl. if Pac. (Chiapam & Panama) M.
DE. G-tJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 387
Fam. CIRRHITID^.
CiRRHITICHTHYS, Blkr.
49. *rivulatus, Val Galapagos Islands, Panama M.
Fam. SCORPiENID^.
ScoRP^NA, Art.
50. plumieri, Bl., Schn Atl. ^ Pac. (Panama) M.
Fam. POLYNEMID^.
POLYNEMUS, L.
51. *melanopoma, Gthr San Jose M.
52. *approximans, Lay ^ Benn. Pacif., Chiapam, Panama M.
53. *oj)ercularis, Gill Pacif. M.
Fam. SCI^NID.^.
Larimus, C. ^- V.
54. *breviceps, C. Sf V, . . . . Atl. ^ Pac. (Panama) M.
Micropogon, Cuv. 6f Val.
55. undulatus, L Atlant M. & F.
56. *altipiunis, Gthr Chiapam, San Jose, Panama M. & B.
Umbrina, Cuv.
57. *elongata, Gthr Chiapam JJ.
58. *nasus, Gthr Panama M.
59. *analis, Gthr Panama M.
CORVINA, Cuv.
60. ronchus, C. i^ V. Atlant M.
61. *chry8oleuca, Gthr Panama M.
62. *vermicularis, Gthr Panama M.
63. *armata, Gill Pacif.
64. *ophioscion, Gthr Panama M.
Otolith us, Cuv.
65. *squamipinnis, Gthr. . . Panama M.
66. *albus, Gthr Chiapam B.
67. *reticulatus, Gthr San Jose, Chiapam M. & B.
Fam. ACRONURID^.
ACANTHURUS, Schfl.
68. chirurgus, Bl Atlant M.
Fam. CARANGID^.
Caranx, Gthr.
69. cnunenophthalmus, Bl. . . . Atl. §• Pac M.
70. amblyrhjTichus, C.i^V. . . . Atlant M.
71. *leucnms, Gthr Panama M.
72. *speciosus, Forsk From Panama to East Africa M.
3 11 2
388 DE. GtNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AIMEEICA.
73. carangus, £/ Atlant. i^Ind. Occ. (Chiapam & Belize) M.
74. *hippos, L Tropics generally M.
75. *caballus, Gthr Panama M.
76. *caninus, Gthr Panama M.
77. *dorsalis, GiY/ San Diego (Cal.), Panama M.
Argyriosus, Lac.
78. vomer, L All. 8f Pac. (Belize, Chiapam, Panama) . . . . B. & M.
79. setipinnis, Mitch Atl. ^ Pac. (Panama) M.
Chorinemus, C. ^ V.
80. occidentalis, L Atlant M.
81. saliens, jB/ Atlant. ^ Pac. (Chiapam, Isabel) B. & F.
82. *altus, Gthr Panama M.
83. *inornatus, Gill Panama M.
Trachynotus, C. ^ V.
84. ovatus, L Atl., Pac, &^ Ind. Oc. (Panama) M.
85. *fasciatus, Gill . . . .' . Panama, San Jose M.
Fam. SCOMBRID.E.
Pelamys, C. ^ V.
86. *sarda, Bl Atl. §• Pac M.
Cybium, Cuv.
87. maculatum, Mitch Atlant. (Belize) M.
ECHENEIS, Art.
88. remora, L Atl., Pac, ^- Ind. Oc M.
89. naucrates, L Atl, Pac, S^ Ind. Oc M.
Fam. BATRACHID^.
B.\TRACHus, Gthr.
90. *pacifici, Gthr Panama, West Coast of Africa M.
91. surinamensis, Bl. Schn. . . Atl. ^ Pacif. (Panama) M.
*Thalassophryne, Gthr.
92. *maculosa, Gthr Puerto Cabello M.
93. ^reticulata, Gthr Panama M.
Porichthys, Girard.
94. porosissimus, C.^V. ... Atl. o^o«, Stcindachner . ? Lake Peten F.
160. *melanurus, Gthr Lake Peten F.
161. *macracanthus, G
PHYSOSTOMI.
Fam. SILURID.E.
Amiurus, Rafin.
201. *meridioualis, Gthr Rio Usumacinta !''•
PlMELODUS, Gthr.
202. modestus, Gthr Rio Chagres, Esmeraklas !*'•
203. guatemalensis, Gthr Huamuclial !''•
204. godmanni, Gthr Lower Vera Paz, Rio Motagua, Mexico .... !'"■
205. *wagneri, Griln Pacific i^ Atlantic rivers of Panania F.
206. *managiiensis, Gthr Lake of Managua F.
207. microptcrus, Gthr Rio San Geronirao F-
208. nicaraguensis, Gthr Lake of Nicaragua F.
209. petenensis, Gthr Lake Peten F.
210. motagnensis, Gthr Rio Motagua F.
211. salvini, Gthr Rio San Creronimo F.
212. polycaulus, Gthr Rio San Geronimo I''.
Arius, Gthr.
213. guatemalensis, Gthr Chiapam, Panama H.
214. *assimilis, Gthr Lake of Yzabal F'.
215. platyjoogon, Gthr San Jose F.
216. seemanni, G//(r V
217. cserulesceus, Gthr Huamuclial F.
218. troschelii, Gill Pac
219. *dovii, Gill Pac
220. melanopus, Gthr Rio Motagua F\
221. multiradiatus, Gtlu- Rio Bayano F.
tElurichthys, Baird ^ Gir.
222. *nuchalis, Gthr Panama
223. *panamensis, GUI Panama
PlecostomuSj Gthr.
224. *?«/?., Kner & Steindachncr . Rio Chagres F.
Ch^tostomus, Heck.
225. *aspidolepis, Gthr Yeragua !'.
226. *'^cin-hosus,\&\ Rio Chagres F.
LoRiCARi.\, Larep.
227. *Mr««/w//; Henle.
303. *latirostris, A. Bum Gaboon, Panama ^I-
§ 6. Partial Idmtity of the Fish-faunas of the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts of
Central America.
It will be seen that, as far as our present knowledge reaches, of these 303 species,
173 are truly marine forms, 57 being found on both sides of the Isthmus.
25 have been found in brackish water, of which 3 are found on both sides of the
Isthmus.
101 are freshwater fishes, 17 being found in rivers of the Atlantic and Pacific sides.
There will be but very few species which are entirely limited to brackish water, and
which may not be with equal propriety added either to the marine or freshwater fauna.
Thus, five of the 25 species hitherto known from lagoons with brackish water belong
to freshwater genera ; and, admitting two groups only, we have
193 marine fish, 59 of which are found on both sides of Central America=30i
per cent.
106 freshwater fish, 19 being found in rivers of the Atlantic and Pacific sides = 18
per cent.
From the circumstance that our collectors paid more attention to the freshwater
than to the marine fauna (at least of the Atlantic coast), we may assume that the pro-
portion between the two groups will be increased by future researches in favour of the
marine fauna, but that the proportion between species peculiar to one side and those
common to both will be lessened, inasmuch as every collector will discover other
Atlantic forms on the Pacific side, and vice versd.
The very curious fact of the partial identity of the species of both coasts of Central
America was first distinctly stated by myself in the Society's ' Proceedings ' for 1861
(p. 370), when, out of fourteen species collected by Capt. Dow on the Pacific side, five
were found to be Atlantic forms. To these vai-ious others were added by me in the
' Catalogue of Fishes ; ' and Mr. Gill confirmed this observation in Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc.
Philad. 1862, pp. 140, 249. Professor Wagner, in his memoir quoted above (p. 384)',
has made the same observation ; but the species enumerated by him, fourteen in number,
are, with one exception, freshwater forms, the geographical distribution of which must
have been brought about at periods and in ways different from those of the diffusion
of marine species.
Knowing now that at least 30 per cent, of the marine fish are found on both sides of
' See also ' llecord, Zool. Literal." ii. p. 177.
398 DE. GtJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
Central America', we cannot account for this fact by resorting to such occasional means
of dispersal as the accidental transmission of spawn from one shore to the other by birds
or water-spouts, or even the close proximity of the sources of rivers flowing in opposite
directions. If we do not adopt the view that species were created at the spot where Ave
And them now, similar creations being produced under similar physical conditions, we
have but one way of explaining the partial similarity of these marine fish-faunas,
namely, by assuming that the Isthmus did not form a continuous barrier between the
two oceans at a former period, but that one or more open channels existed. I am not
aware that geology has, up to this time, furnished us with proof positive that this is
really the fact ; but considering the volcanic nature of Central America, and the absence
of all fossiliferous strata, it does not appear too bold an hypothesis to assume that North
and South America were formerly connected by a chain of islands similar to that of the
Antilles, and that subsequently an elevation (as in other parts of the globe) took place,
resulting in the final continuity of dry land: the long-continued activity of the
numerous volcanoes may have been another, though secondary cause in filling up the
cliannels on the Pacific side. If such a bodily elevation of Central America has taken
place, it is easy to show where some of the broadest channels existed, namely, where
we find the greatest depressions running from one ocean to the other. The northern-
most of these depressions exists between Tehuantepec and the river Coatzalco ; the
second is indicated between Puerto Cabello and the Gulf of Fonseca ; the third by the
T,uke of Nicaragua (the remnant and deepest part of a very broad channel) ; a fourth
between Chagres and Panama. (See map, PL LXIII., where these supposed former
depressions are coloured green.) As far as I have been able to ascertain, the greatest
elevation of the first of these lines of depression would be 1500, of the fourth 287 feet
only^ If we presume that only one of the channels was open at a period when the
present marine fauna was already in existence, it will fully explain the existence of
identical species on both sides of the isthmus, especially if the difierence of the tides
was as great as it is now^ causing strong currents from one ocean to the other.
Such an instance of a disconnexion of a marine fauna by elevation of land as I am
inclined to assume in the case of Central America does not stand quite alone. We owe
to the researches of Prof S. Loven and Dr. Malmgren* the knowledge of the fact that
marine animals (Crustacea, Annelids, and Fishes) inhabiting the glacial ocean are found
in the great freshwater lakes of Sweden and in the Bothnian Gulf, and that this is to
be explained only by the former continuity of the Baltic with the Glacial Ocean.
During the second half of the glacial period the greater part of Finland and of the
' Mr. Darwin (' Origin of Species,' 3rd edit. p. 378) was not acquainted with this fact, which by no means mili-
tates against his argument, but merely modifies it. " M. Wagner, I. c. p. ST.
■'' At Chagres the mean elevation is 1-16 foot, while at Panama the highest flow is 22 feet. (Seemann, Voj-.
of H.M.S. • Herald,' i. p. 236.)
* Loven, Skand. Natui-forsk.-Siillskap. forst. oftentl. miite d. 9 Juli 1863 : Stockholm, 1864. Mabngren,
■ Kritisk Ofvorsigt af Finlands Fiskfauna,' see ' Zool. Eecord,' i. pp. 130-138.
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 399
middle of Sweden was submerged, and the Baltic was a great gulf of the Glacial Ocean,
and not connected with the German Ocean. By the gradual elevation of the Scandi-
navian continent, the Baltic became disconnected from the Glacial Ocean, and the great
lakes separated from the Baltic.
The Isthmus of Suez appears to have been a much more permanent barrier between
the faunas of the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. R. A. Philippi has di-awn up a list
of species of shells common to both faunas ; but it was founded on a collection made by
Ehrenberg, in which the shells from both seas had been mixed' ; and P. Fischer- has
lately shown that the two faunas are quite distinct. As regards the fishes, I have men-
tioned (on former occasions) a few occurring in both seas (Sargus noct, Sargus rondeUtii) ;
but the number is so small that one might be tempted to account for it by the tempo-
rary existence of an artificial communication between the two seas.
Looking at the results of the separation of the Baltic from the Glacial Ocean on the
one hand, and of that of the Pacific from the Atlantic on the other, we find them very
different. As soon as the continuity of the Baltic with the Glacial Ocean was inter-
rupted, the amount of fresh water earned into the former by rivers exceeded the quantity
lost by evaporation of its surface, and the salt water gradually changed into brackish,
and in the northern parts into fresh water. By far the greater part of the animals
became extinct ; but a few survived^ however, in spite of the greatly altered physical con-
ditions, loithout altenng their specific characters, still agreeing loith the typical fm-ms in
every point, except in size, remaining smaller, leaner, almost starved. The same thing
might happen if by a rising of the chain of the West- Indian islands the Gulf of Mexico
or the Caribbean Sea were at a future time converted into inland seas with narrow out-
lets into the open ocean.
The separation of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans was, of course, not accompanied by
a change of the water ; and any diff"erence that existed in the physical conditions of both
seas, as, for instance, the formation of corals on the Atlantic side, and their total absence
on the Pacific, existed already before the communication between the oceans was closed ;
so that the life of species was not in any way affected by the discontinuance of this
communication. Let us for argument's sake assume that the part of the isthmus
between the Lake of Nicaragua and Panama was once an island, apeupres of the form
of Cuba, inhabited, like Cuba, on its northern and southern coasts by a certain species of
fish. The only effect of a gradual rise of the land on the life of tliis species would be to force
it to retreat further and further from the original coast, and to accommodate itself to the
new one — an eff"ect to which, if felt at all, the indi\aduals on the northern and southern
coasts would be equally exposed. Thus there is in this case no apparent external cause
for an alteration of the species ; and, indeed, the specinwns examined hy me from opposite
coasts of the isthmus are absolutely identical, and there is not the slightest indication that
one of them has heen modified or degenerated into a climatic or local variety. I trust that
' Martens, in ' Zoolog. Record,' ii. p. 237. " Journ. C'unchyl. xiii. 1S65, pp. 241-248.
^ Seven or eight species of the northern part of the Baltic are believed to be of Arctic origin.
400 DE. GtJNTHEE 0^ THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
geology will furnish us with the proof of the former partial submergence of a part of
Central America, as it has done with respect to the northern part of Scandinavia. We
should then be able to speak with more confidence of the permanence, or rather endu-
rance, of the characters of a specific type, and arrive at a somewhat more definite idea
of the age of species which must have existed before those geological changes were
completed '.
Sir Charles Lyell has directed my attention to collateral evidence from other classes
of the animal kingdom, by which the partial identity of the faunas of the two coasts is
shown, although not in an equally conclusive manner. The majority of malacologists
appear to have presumed a j^iiori their distinctness, and consequently described Pacific
shells generally as distinct from Atlantic species. However, Dr. Morch, in a paper in
which he describes or enumerates about 360 Panama species, makes the following
remarks (Pfeifi". Malakozool. Blatt. 1859, p. 107):—
" The tropical [molluscan] faunse may be classed in two principal divisions, the Indian
and the Atlantic. To the latter belong, 1, the Guinean (Senegalian) ; 2, the Antillian ;
and 3, the Panaman, which, although belonging to the Pacific, appears to be most
analogous to the Guinean. A great number of species, especially of Bivalves, have
been regarded as identical with those from the eastern (Brazilian) shore. I believe I
can prove that they are difi'erent. Certain irregular mollusks cannot be separated
diagnostically ; but I can recognize them by their general habit. It is at all events a
fact that no species stamped with definite characters (wohlausgepragt) is identical on
both sides of the isthmus. The Panama species may be divided into: — 1, those
analogous to West-Indian ; 2, those analogous to species from Guinea and Senegal ;
;-), those very remotely analogous to East-Indian species."
' I may on this occasion recur to a remark made by me in Proc. Zool. Soc. 1858, p. 381, witli regard to the
sea-snakes obsei-ved in the Bay of Panama by M. Salle, Capt. Dow, and Mr. Salvin. There is now not the least
doubt that the snakes seen were Pehmi/s bicolor, and that they are, moreover, very common there. I find' that
Dr. Seemaun (Voy. ' Herald,' i. p. 205) abeady mentions them. But I am much inclined to think that this
most common Indian species has migrated eastwards, and that its arrival on the West- American coast is of
veiy recent date. Dampier and the other bucaniers who have left us records of their adventures, and who
passed weeks and months in the Bay of Panama, could not have failed to observe them, and to mention them
in their notes, just as they did on other occasions. It is also probable that these snakes would have spread
into the Atlantic Ocean, had they been so numerous on the Pacific side at the time when a communication
existed between the two oceans.
Whilst this paper was passing through the press, I found two notices of the existence of water-snakes
on the western coasts of South America, in seas considerably more southwards than the Bay of Panama. The
notes are in Capt. Sharp's Voyage in " The History of the Bucaniers of America." London, 1699, 8vo, vol. ii.
p. 50 : " As we sailed " [near Cape St. Francisco, which is nearly under the equator] " we saw multitiides of
Grampusses every day ; as also Water-snales of divers colours."' And p. 72, when sailing in lat. 19° S., the
author mentions " A huge shoal of fish, two or three Wafer-snakes, and several Seah." I find in another part
of the same work a note which I believe to be the first description of Tapinis bairdi. The part has a separate
title-page, "A Journal of a Voyage made into the South Sea by the Bucaniers or Freebooters of America from
the year 1684 to 1689. Written by the Sieur Eaveneau de Lussan." Lond. 1698, 8vo. The Indian name of
the Tapir is given as Alcmijwwye, page 16.
DE. GUNTHER OX THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AIMEEICA. 401
These remarks appear to me to convey very strong testimony in accordance with my
own observation on the ichthyological fauna, inasmuch as the author refers the Panama
MoUusks generally to the Atlantic fauna. He, indeed, denies the perfect identity of
the species, admitting merely an "analogy" between them; but then it is a question
whether malacologists do not go too far in making specific distinctions, when they are
not even able to express those distinctions " diasrnostically," recognizing the forms
merely " by their general habit." Shells are, after all, that portion of a moUusk the
formation and development of which is most influenced by the peculiarities (physical
and chemical) of the surrounding medium and locality ; and only too many specific
forms have been distinguished on account of slight differences in the sculpture and
shape of the shells, the importance of which disappears on comparing a large series of
examples. However, as I am not prepared to form an opinion with regard to the shells
of Central America from my own examination, I am bound to receive the testimony of
so celebrated a malacologist as Dr. Morch ; and should his observations prove to be
fully correct, they will give an additional interest to this fauna, as proving that the
shells of MoUusks suffer change under circumstances in which the specific charactei-s
of fishes remain unaltered.
With regard to fossil shells, Mr. J. C. Moore, who has examined several collections
from tertiary beds in San Domingo, has made the observation that " many bear a strong
resemblance to shells now living in the Indian Seas and the Pacific, and that one or two
appear to be identical" (Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. 1853, p. 131), and " that a channel
or sound may have existed in the equatorial parts during some portion of the tertiary
period, by which some few of the tropical shells may have migrated from the one ocean
to the other" (ibid. 1850, p. 43).
Of the other marine animals, the Corals have been made the object of elaborate
researches, the various authors arri\dng at somewhat different conclusions. First,
Mr. Duncan, in a paper " On the Fossil Corals of the West-Lidian Islands" (Quart.
Journ. Geol. Soc. xix. 1863. p. 455), has shown that "in all the calcareous formations
which are covalliferous, and are considerably elevated above the level of the Caribbean
Sea [being probably of miocenc age], there is a very limited series of Corals witli
generic relation to those now existing and characteristic of the West-Indian Coral
Fauna, but a predominance of forms resembling those of the present Coral-seas of the
Pacific, South Sea, and the Indian Ocean." Tiiis identity of the Corals proves an
identical condition of the phj^sical circumstances, and evidently a wide contiiuiity of
the West-Indian and Western seas.
On the other hand, Prof. Veeeill, when speaking of the living Polyi)-fauiKV of the
Atlantic and Pacific sides of Central America (Proc. Post. Soc. Nat. Hist. x. 1866,
p. 323 et seq.), states that their differences of character are verj- remarkable; that at
Panama none of the reef-building corals of Asi)inwall, Florida, or the West Indies
occur, nor even any of the genera of the families to which they belong, with the
VOL. VI. — PART VII. 3 K
402 DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
excei^tion of a small Porifes and Stephanocom ; that these and other differences do not
favour tlie theory entertained by some geologists, viz. that there has been a communi-
cation between the two oceans at this point, and that the Gulf-stream flowed across the
isthmus into the Pacific, within comparatively recent geological times.
It is not within the scope of this paper further to discuss the point on which Messrs.
Duncan and Verrill are at variance, as we cannot assume that the present fish-fauna
existed at so early a period. From tiie observations made on the fishes and shells Ave
are obliged to conclude that down to a very recent period a connexion between the two
seas has been kept open by channels and straits wide enough to allow of the passage
of these animals. Why corals, or at least a part of them, should not have been dis-
persed by their floating germs in a similar manner, is a circumstance which we cannot
explain.
The occurrence of identical species oi freshwater fishes in rivers running to the two
opposite oceans is a matter of much less difficulty, and, besides, has been very generally
observed in various parts of the globe. The same agencies which in other countries have
effected a -wider dispersion of one species than of another must have been at work here
also. Prof. M. AVagner has, in his Memoir quoted above, so fully treated of this part of
our subject, with particular reference to the hydrographical peculiarities of the isthmus,
that we need not dwell further on it.
§ 7. Definition of the Characteristics of the Fishfauna of Central America.
In defining the zoological characters of Central America, expressed in its fish-fauna, I
confine myself to the freshwater fishes proper. Here the nearctic types become extinct,
and are represented by five generic types, four of which, although with numerous species
in the north, have but a single one here — Lepidosteiis, Amiiirxs, Sclerognathus, and
Haplochilus. Fwndulus, extending a little further southwards (with one species in
Western Ecuador), is represented by four species in Guatemala. Not one of these
species is identical with a North-American.
Much greater is the aflSnity with neotropical types ; and their representatives are much
more numerous : there is one species of Acara, one of Macrodon, seven of Tetragono-
pterus, one of Anacyrtus, twelve of Pimelodus, one of Plecostomus, two of Chcefostormis,
two of Loricaria, one of Anableps, one of Carapus, the latter being identical with a
species from Guiana. Types in common with the West-Indian Islands are — Agono-
stoma with three species (one of which is said to be identical with a Jamaican species),
Girardinus and Gambusia with one, the two latter genera being also represented in the
Southern States of North America. The Siluroid genus Arius, which extends over the
tropics generally, is represented by nine species.
Finally, the following genera are peculiar to Central America, or at least have attained
there to the greatest development : — Heros and the allied Neetroplus and Petenia with
thirty-four species, yElurichthys with two, Chalcinopsis with three, Characodon with one.
DK. GUNTHEE OX THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA. 403
Xiphoi)horns \\\t\\ one, Mollimesia with one, Pa-cilia with eight, and Belonesox with
one species.
The affinity of this freshwater fauna with that of Mexico, will be found to be greater
than with that of any other country (I might mention about ten species common to
Guatemala and Mexico) ; but until we are better acquainted with the habitats of species
described as Mexican, a more detailed comparison of the two countries would be of but
little advantage. The freshwater fish-founa of Central America may be shortly thus
characterized:—^ part of the Chromides (Heros, &c.) and the Gijimnodontes (jenerally
have attained to their greatest development; neotropical types extending northxcards
prevail over nearctic extending southwards, the latter heing represented by a few extreme
branches.
§ 8. An Attempt to Subdivide this Fauna info Provinces.
We may subdivide this part of the freshwater fauna into the following provinces : —
A. Hie fresh waters north of the Lakes of Managua and Nigaragua, emptying info the
Pacific. — To this province belong the fishes collected at Chiapam [C'h.], Huamuchal [H.],
San Jose [J.], in the Rio Guacalate (Duenas) [G.], San Salvador [S.], and Libertad [L.] ;
also the fishes from the Lakes of Amatitlan [Am.] and Atitlan [At.] may be referred to
the same province,
[The species printed in italics in the following lists are found also in one or more
other provinces, and in Atlantic rivers.]
Heros macracanthus Cli. H. — — — —
trimaculatus Ch. H. — — —
, • iiigrofasciatus — — — — — -^™- ^^-
guttulatus — — — — — ■^™-
Agouostoma microps — — — G.
Arius guatemalensis Ch. — — —
platypogon — — — J- —
csenilescens — H. — — —
Pimelodus guatemalensis — H. — - — — —
Anacyrius yuatemalensis — H. — — — —
Tetragouopt. microj)hthalmus .... — — — — — -A-m.
huniilis — — — — — ^^™'
Funduhis giiatemalensis — — — G. — Am.
pachycephalus — — — — -^^-
punctatus Ch. — — — —
Anableps dovii Cli. — - — — —
Pcecilia mexicana Ch. H. — G. — Am. —
dovii — — — — — Am. —
Girardiniis pleurospilus — — — G. — — —
Chipea libertatis — — — — L- —
Lcpidosteus tropicus — H. — — — — —
3k2
M.
Y
M.
—
M.
M.
Y
M.
Y
M.
M.
M.
404 DE. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
B. The fresh waters north of the Lakes of Managua and Nicaragua, em})tying into the
Atlantic. — To this province belong the fishes collected in the Rio Usumacinta [U.] (and
in its tributaries Rio de Santa Isabel, Rio Chisoy, and Rio San GeronimoX in the Rio
Motao-ua [M.], and in the Rio Cahabon (Yzabal) [Y.].
Eleotris dormitatrix —
Ayonostoma nasutuin U.
Heros parma —
• spilurus —
aureus —
motaguensis —
microphthalmus — ■
oblongus —
augiilifer — — ^-
salvini U. —
irregularis U. — —
godmanni —
Arius assimilis —
melanopus —
Amiurus meridionalis U.
Pimelodus godmanni U.
motaguensis —
salviui U.
polycaulus U.
Tvtragonopterm paiiuinetiftis —
brevimanus U.
Clialcinopsis dentex l^-
I'unduhis labialis U-
Belouesox bebzanus Honduras, Bebze.
PcEciba chisoyensis U- — —
Xiphophorus heUeri U. — —
Selerognatbus meridionabs U. — —
Carapus fasciatiis — ^i- —
C. Lake Pet en. — The fish-fauna of this limited district is so pecuharly developed,
that we cannot hesitate to describe it as a separate province.
—
Y.
—
Y.
M.
—
M.
M.
—
—
Y.
—
Y.
M.
Y.
Y.
Heros margaritil'er.
melauurus.
urophthalmus.
aflBnis.
friedricbsthabi.
salvini (in common \\ itli
vinco B).
intermedius.
Peteuia splcndida.
Pimelodus petenensis.
Tctragonopterus petenensis.
Belonesox (in common with province
B).
Poecilia petenensis.
Molbenesia petenensis.
Cliaitoessus petenensis.
DR. GiJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AlVIERICA.
405
D. Lake of Managua. — Althougli the number of species known from this lake is
small, the forms are quite peculiar ; we find here those species of Hews which are
distinguished by the extraordinary development of the lips, or by incisor-like teeth,
which render the separation into a distinct genus necessary. The development ot
these Chromides is the more remarkable, as this lake occupies a space which is
supposed to ha^'e been a portion of a marine channel.
Ileros ervtlmcus. Ilcros lobocliihis.
managuensis.
labiatus.
• multispinis.
Neetroplus nematopus.
E. Lake of Nicaragua. — Also the fishes of this lake are, with two exceptions, pt-culiar ;
like Lake Managua, it appears to have been part of a marine channel.
Heros lubiatm (Lake of ^Luiagiia).
Pimelodus nicaraguensis.
Gambusia nicaraguensis.
Poecilia dovii (in common with Lake
Amatitlan).
Eleotris longiceps.
Heros longimanus.
citrinellus.
dovii.
nicaraguensis.
F. The fresh waters south of the Lakes of Managua and Nicaragua to the Lsthmas of
Darien. — We are obliged, at present, to unite into one province the fish-fauna of Costa
Rica, Veragua, Panama, and Darien, as our knowledge of the fishes of Costa Rica and
also of Veragua is too incomplete to admit of a comparison with those of the more
southern part of the isthmus. This is the more to be regretted, as a former separation
of these two parts and of their faunas is, as we have explained above, a matter of great
probability. The fishes of the Chagres River show a decidedly South-American cha-
racter. The identity of the freshwater fish-faunas of the Pacific and Atlantic sides is
here easily explained by the narrowness of the isthmus.
Eleotris picta
Agonostoma nasutuui —
moniicola —
Heros parma ("liagrcs.
altifrons
Acara cieruleomaculata .... Chagres.
Arius multiradiatus —
^Elurichthys dorsalis —
panamensis —
Pimelodus wagueri —
modestus Chagres.
Plecostonuis, sp Chagres.
Ch;etostomiis aspidolepis .... —
('hcelos-lomiis 'f rirr/iosiis .... Chagres.
Loricurhi limn Chagres.
R. Bavano.
Panama.
Panama.
Western ^'e^agua.
R. Bavano.
Panama.
Panama.
Panama.
Veragua.
406 DE. GUNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
Loricaria uracmitha Chagres. — —
Macrodon microlepis Chagres. — —
Tetragonopterus jMnameiisis ... — Pauama. —
aeneus — Panama. —
Chalcinopsis striatulus .... — ■ Panama. —
chagrensis Chagres. — —
Anacyrtus guatemalensis .... Cliagres. — —
Haplochilus dovii — Costa Rica. —
Poecilia elongata — Panama. —
— — gillii Chagres. —
§ 9. Descnjjtive Part.
In the following descriptive part of this Memoir I have admitted full descriptions of
those species only which are not described elsewhere ; secondly, descriptive diagnoses of
those of which figures are given ; and, finally, notes on some knoAvn species, if they
appeared to contribute to their better knowledge. For the descriptions of all the other
species (the insertion of which would be a repetition of matter already published), I
must refer the student to my general work on Fishes.
1. Centropomus appendiculatus.
Poey, Mem. Cub. ii. p. 119.
D. 8jl. A.;l L.lat. 70-72.
Nine longitudinal series of scales between the origin of the second dorsal fin and the
lateral line. The height of the body is contained four times in the total length (with-
out caudal), the length of the head twice and two-thirds. Prseorbital indistinctly
serrated ; suboperculum produced into a short flap, which extends to or nearly to the
vertical from the origin of the dorsal fin. The intermaxillary extends to below the
middle of the orbit. Dorsal spines of moderate strength ; the third is the longest, and
about half as long as the head. The second anal spine is generally longer than the third ;
but sometimes they are equal in length, and even shorter than the third dorsal spine. The
length of the ventral fin is more than one-half of its distance from the anal. Air-bladder
^vith a pair of appendages anteriorly. Silvery ; dorsal fins blackish ; lateral line black.
We have received this species (which was originally described from Cuban examples)
from Surinam and Mexico. Mr. Salvin and Capt. Dow obtained a specimen from the
Chagres River, 10 inches long.
2. Centropomus medius.
Giintli. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864., p. 144.
D. Sjl. A.i L.lat. 57.
Eight longitudinal series of scales between the origin of the second dorsal fin and the
lateral line. The height of the body is contained thric(! and three-fourths in the total
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 407
length (without caudal), the length of the head twice and four-fifths. Prseorbital
finely serrated ; suboperculum produced into a flap, which does not extend to tlie
vertical from the origin of the dorsal fin. The intermaxillary extends somewhat beyond
the anterior margin of the orbit. Dorsal spines strong ; the third is longer than the
fourth, and half as long as the head. The second anal spine long, but a little shorter
than the third, and etjual in length to the distance between the extremity of the upper
jaw and the pra?opercular margin. The length of the ventral fin is much more than
one-half of its distance from the anal fin. Lateral line black.
Two specimens, l.S inches long, from Chiapam.
.3. Centropomi'S nigrescens.
(jriintli. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864-, p. 144.
D. 8 1 1 A. I L. lat. 70.
Ten longitudinal series of scales between the origin of the second dorsal fin and the
lateral line. The height of the body is contained four times and a half in the total
length (without caudal), the length of the head twice and four-fifths. Praeorbital not
serrated; suboperculum produced into a short flap, which does not extend to the
vertical from the origin of the dorsal fin. The intermaxillary extends a little beyond
the middle of the orbit. Dorsal spines rather feeble ; the third and fourth are equal
in length, two-fifths of the length of the head. The second and third anal spines also
are equal in length, and not longer than the dorsal spines mentioned. The length of
the ventral fin is scarcely more than one-half of the distance of its base from the anal.
Air-bladder without appendages anteriorly. Silvery ; upper parts and fins blackish ;
lateral line black.
One specimen, 14 inches long, from Chiapam.
This species is allied to C. appendicnlatus (Poey), but diflers externally in its con-
siderably more feeble and shorter fin-spines.
4. Cextropomus parallelus.
Poey, Mem. Cuba, ii. p. 120.
D. 8 1 1 A. % L. lat. 85-90.
' lU D
Twelve longitudinal series of scales between the origin of the second dorsal fin and
the lateral line. The height of the body is contained thrice and three-fourths in t]u>
total length (without caudal), the length of the head twice and a half. Pntorbital
distinctly serrated ; suboperculum produced into a flap, which extends to the vertical
from the origin of the dorsal fin. The intermaxillary extends a little beyond the
middle of the orbit. Dorsal spines rather feeble ; the third is the longest, half as long
as the head. The second anal spine is exceedingly strong, longer than the third and the
thii-d dorsal spine. The length of the ventral fin is considerably more than one-half of
408 DE. GUNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
tlie distance of its base from the anal. Air-bladder without appendages anteriorly.
Silvery ; upper parts and fins greenish ; lateral line not black.
This species occurs in Cuba ; we have received it from San Domingo, Jamaica, and
Bahia. Messrs. Dow and Salvin collected a specimen in the Chagres River.
5. Centropomus armatus.
(iill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 186.3, p. 163.
D. S\L A. I L. lat. 51. L. transv. 714.
Six longitudinal series of scales between the origin of the second dorsal fin and the
lateral line. The height of the body is contained from thrice and two-fifths to thrice
and three-fourths in the total length (without caudal) ; the length of the head twice
and a half. Pra^orbital serrated in its hinder half; suboperculum produced into a long
flap, which extends beyond the vertical from the origin of the dorsal fin. The inter-
maxillary extends scarcely to below the middle of the orbit. Dorsal spines of moderate
strength ; the third is the longest, and half as long as the head. The second anal spine
is exceedingly strong, much stronger than the third, and longer than the third dorsal
spine. The length of the ventral fin is scarcely more than one-half of the distance of
its base from the anal. Silvery ; dorsal fins, a blotch on the opercle, and the membrane
between the anal spines blackish. Lateral line not black.
Several specimens, 12 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam.
6. CeNTROPOMUS EXSiFERUS.
Poey, Mem. Cub. ii. p. 122, pi. 12. fig. 1.
D. 8 1 1. A. I L. lat. 53.
Seven longitudinal series of scales between the origin of the second dorsal fin and the
Interal line. The height of the body is one-fourth of the total length (without caudal),
the length of the head two-fifths. Praeorbital coarsely serrated ; suboperculum pro-
duced into a flap, which extends to the vertical from the origin of the dorsal fin. The
intermaxillary extends scarcely to below the middle of the orbit. Dorsal spines of
moderate strength ; the third and fourth are the longest, and two-fifths as long as the
head. The second anal spine is exceedingly strong, much stronger than the third, and
much longer than the dorsal spines. The length of the ventral fin is somewhat more
than one-half of the distance of its base from the anal. Silvery ; dorsal fin, a blotch on
the opercle, and the membrane between the anal spines blackish. Lateral line not
black.
This species occurs in Cuba ; we have received it from Jamaica and from the Guyanas.
Mr. Godraan collected a specimen. 12 inches long, at Belize.
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 409
7. Centropristis jucropoma. (PI. LXV. fig. 1.)
Giiuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864., p. 145.
D. 1^. A. ^. L. lat. 52. L. transv. 6/16.
Closely allied to ('. radialis, Q. & G. ; but whilst tliat species has a notch above the
spinifeious angle, the present has its prajopercular margin not interrupted, the long
spines of the angle gradually passing into the finer serrature. There are six series of
scales between the eye and the angle of the prajoperculum. The maxillary extends
nearly to the vertical from the posterior margin of the orbit. Dorsal fin with a notch,
the ninth spine being considerably shorter than the tenth. A series of rather small
brownish spots above and below the lateral line.
Three specimens, 4^ inches long, were collected by Messrs. Dow and Salvin on the
Pacific coast of Panama.
8. Serranus creolus, C. & ^^
T have examined specimens from the Atlantic coasts only ; but Mr. Gill has found it
iu a collection of fishes from Lower California, the specimens being undistinguishable
from those of the "West Indies and South America (Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1862,
p. 249).
12. SeRRAiNUS SELLICAUDA.
Ejnnephelus sellicauda, Gill, Proc. Acad. Xat. Sc. Philad. 1862, p. 250.
D. ]4- A. l L. lat. 100.
Caudal fin with the posterior margin convex. The height of the body is rather more
than three-fourths of the length of the head, and one-fourth of the total (caudal
included). The diameter of the eye is one-fourth of the length of the head. Prseoper-
culum finely serrated behind, with some coarser teeth at the angle, lower limb entire ;
sub- and interoperculum entu'e. Ventrals three-fourths of the length of pectorals, and
reaching two-thirds of the distance between their insertion and the commencement of
the anal. Brownish, with olive-coloured spots of larger and smaller size on the body
and opercles. All the fins with a narrow white margin. A square black blotch across
the back of the tail.
iJescription. — Body not very elevated ; its greatest height is below the third spine of
the dorsal fin, rather more than three-fourths of the length of the head, and one-fourth
of the total. The distance between the end of the dorsal and the commencement of
tiie caudal is nearly one-sixth of the length of the base of the dorsal, is contained once
and two-thirds in the base of the anal, is one-fourth of the distance between the dorsal
tin and the snout, and equals the least depth of the tail. The distance between the
eyes is one-half of the diameter of the eye, and covered with very minute scales, which
are found also on the prneorbital around the nostrils. The length of the snout is two-
thirds of the diameter of the eye. The maxillary bone reaches the -vertical from
the posterior margin of the eye. The mandibulary is one-half of the length of the
VOL. VI. — PART VII. o L
410 DE. GtJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTE.y:. AMEEICA.
head. The lips are not very thick. Posterior limb of prseoperculum very convex,
minutely serrated, with three coarser teeth at the angle ; lovi^er limb toothless. Sub-
and interoperculum entire. Operculum terminating in three not very strong teeth, the
upper of which is somewhat more remote than the others, the middle one being the
more prominent. Suprascapular concealed by the scales.
The membrane of the dorsal fin is scaly for about half the height between the spines
and rays ; the spinous portion scarcely lower but longer than the soft, with its upper
margin convex, and a small membranaceous appendage behind the tip of each spine.
The first spine is the shortest, rather more than half the length of the second, which is
one-fifth shorter than the third ; from the third to the seventh the spines are equal,
becoming slightly shorter at the eighth ; the last two spines are of equal length. The
rays increase slightly from the first to the sixth, after which the upper margin is
straight, becommg again rounded posteriorly. The first ray is one- fifth longer than
the preceding spine. Caudal with posterior margin convex. The commencement of
the anal is on a line with that of the soft dorsal, and it ends before the termination of
the dorsal ; the first spine is short, not half the length of the second, which is long and
strong, longer than any of the dorsal spines ; the third is slenderer, and equal to the
third dorsal spine : the margin of the soft part of the fin is nearly straight, sharply
rounded off posteriorly. The pectoral consists of eighteen rays, is rounded, and longer
than the ventral, and covered with very minute scales to one-third of the length. The
ventrals reach the vent ; the second ray is the longest, the spine being equal to the
second of the dorsal. Canine teeth of moderate size, those of the lower jaw rather
small. Coloration as described above.
A single specimen, 4 inches long, was sent by Capt. Dow from the Pacific coast of
Panama. The specimen in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution is from the
coast of Lower California ; a statement of its size, which would have been of some
importance, is omitted.
13. Serranus analogus.
Epinephelus analogus, Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 163.
D. }5. A. I L. lat. ca. 100.
Adult. — The height is contained thrice in the total length (without caudal), the
length of the head twice and two-thirds. The prajoperculum is finely serrated behind,
and towards the angle armed with three or four strong teeth. The diameter of the
eye equals a sixth of the head's length, and equals the interorbital space as well as
the snout behind the intermaxillaries. The third, fourth, and fifth spines are equal,
and contained twice and two-thirds in the length of the head ; the tenth thrice and a
half The caudal fin enters five times and a half in the length, the height of the
dorsal twice and three-fourths in the head. The anal is deeper; its third spine is
longest, and enters four times and three-fourths in the head's length ; the pectoral is
at least half as long as the head ; the ventral shorter, but coterminal with it.
DE. GUNTIIEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 411
The colour is purplish grey, with numerous dark spots about as large as the pupil ;
those of the pectoral and caudal fins are smaller and more crowded, of the dorsal, anal,
and ventral more like those of the body.
The specimens are from 11 to 15 inches long, and were found by Capt. Dow at
Panama.
We have received also a s»i«//^>' example, 5 inches long, from the same gentleman. It
differs from those described above in being provided with five cross bands, paler in colour
than the spots, which are one-thu'd the size of the eye. The dorsal fin is scarcely
notched, the tenth spine being but little shorter than the third or fourth, the length of
which is contained twice and two-thirds in that of the head. The example being
young, its eye is comparatively lai'ger.
14. Plectropoma afrum. (PI. LXVII. fig. 3.)
Ejnnephelus afer, Bloch, Taf. 327 (fide Peters, Monatsber. Ak. AViss. Berlin, 1865, p. 105).
Alphestes afer, Bl. Schn. p. 236.
Plectropoma chloropterum, Cuv. & Val. ii. p. 398. Poey, Mem. Cub. i. p. 7B, lam. 9. fig. 3.
monacanthus, Miill. & Trosch. in Schomb. Hist. Bai-b. p. 605. Giinth. Fish. i. p. 164.
muUiguttatum, Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1866, p. 600.
D. jiL.. A. I L. lat. 75.
Caudal rounded. The height of the body is equal to the length of the head, and
contained twice and three-fourths in the total (without caudal). The diameter of the
eye is one-fifth of the length of the head, and a little less than that of the snout.
Prseoperculum with a strong spinous tooth below the angle, pointing forwards. Olive-
brown, head and body with numerous spots.
Description. — Body somewhat elevated ; its greatest height is below the fourth spine
of the dorsal, and equal to the length of the head, which is contained thrice and one-
third in the total (the caudal included). The distance between the dorsal and the
caudal is contained seven times and one-third in the length of the base of the
dorsal fin, twice in that of tlie base of the anal, four times in the distance between the
dorsal fin and the snout, and is considerably less than the least depth of the tail. The
distance between the eyes is about two-thirds of the diameter of the eye, and covered with
scales which extend forward beyond the nostrils on the praiorbital, and in a narrow
band on the upper maxillary. The length of the snout equals the diameter of the
eye, which is one-fifth of the length of the head. The maxillary reaches a little beyond
the level of the posterior margin of the eye. The mandibulary is covered with minute
scales, and is equal to one-half the length of the head. The lips are thick and fleshy.
The posterior limb of the prseoperculum slants obliquely backwards, and is minutely
serrated, the denticulations becoming coarser at the angle ; and beneath on the lower
limb at some distance from the other teeth there is a single strong tooth pointing
downwards, and nearly concealed by the skin ; sub- and intcroperculum not serrated.
3l2
412 DK. GUjSTHEE on THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
The operculum terminates in three, flat, triangular teeth, the upper of Avhich is the
more distant and somewhat more obtuse than the others, the middle one being the
longest, but not very prominent, and the lower one the shortest and weakest. The
suprascapula is concealed by the scales.
Base of dorsal fin covered with very small scales, a tapering band of scales runs up
between each pair of the spines and rays to about half the height of the fin. Spinous
portion rather lower but longer than the soft, its upper margin convex; the membrane
between each spine is deeply notched, and there is a small membranaceous appendage
behind the top of each spine. The fii'st spine is the shortest, half the size of the
second ; the second is five-sixths of the length of the third ; the third, fourth, and fifth
are the longest, and of nearly equal length ; the spines then become gradually shorter
to the last one, which is scarcely longer than the preceding. The soft portion exhibits
an entii'ely rounded upper margin, the rays becoming longer from the first to the sixtli
or seventh, and shorter from the fourteenth to the last ; tlie first ray is one-fourtli
longer than the preceding spine. Caudal with the posterior margin convex. Anal
commencing a little behind the commencement of the soft dorsal, and terminating in
advance of the end of the same ; the first spine is not very strong, and short ; the
second long, thick, and strong ; the third more slender and shorter, being but little
longer than the second dorsal spine ; the margin of the fin is rounded throughout, the
third ray being the longest, and the subsequent ones becoming progressively shorter.
The pectoral is composed of eighteen rays, rounded, one-fourth longer than the ventral,
and covered with minute scales for about oue-third of its length. The ventral reaches
to the vertical from the origin of the eighth spine of the dorsal, but not to the vent ;
the spine is a little less than two-thirds the length of the first ray ; the first and second
rays are the longest, the others diminisliing gradually in length ; the length of the
spine is somewhat less than that of the second dorsal spine. Canine teeth small in
both jaws.
This species varies somewhat in coloration, as most of its congeners ; the spots are
numerous and small, either of a uniform dark-brown colour, or of a light colour and
mixed with large brown spots. Pectoral fins with narrow blackish cross bands.
One example, 10 inches long, and three smaller ones have been collected by Capt.
Dow on the Pacific coast of Panama. The latter have the spots somewhat larger and
less conspicuous than the adult. This species occurs also in the West Indies and at
the Falkland Islands.
15. Rhypticus decoratus.
Rhijpticus nigripinnis, Gill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1861, p. 53.
Promicropterus dtcoratu.i, (Jill, /. c. 1863, p. 164.
D. 4 A. 16.
The two dorsal spines are continuous with the soft portion. Body generally with
more or less numerous round whitish spots, many of which have a brown centre.
DK. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 413
Messrs. Dow and Salvin have collected several examples, from 3 to 8 inches long, on
the Pacific coast of Panama.
The species described by llolbrook as 11. iriaculatus, and said to have the ilorsul
spines separated from the soft portion, may eventually prove to be identical with the
Pacific fish.
19. Mesopriox aratus.
(jiinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G4, p. 145.
D. ^^. A. |. L. lat. 45. L. transv. 4i/12,
The height of the body equals the length of the head, and is contained thrice and
two-fifths, or thrice and one-fifth in the total (without caudal). The maxillary does not
extend backwards to the vertical from the centre of the eye. Praioperculum finely
serrated, with scarcely a trace of a posterior notch. Dorsal spines of moderate strength ;
the third and fourth ai'e the longest, two-fifths of the length of the head ; the eleventh
is scarcely longer than the tenth, which is rather more than half as long as the fourth.
Caudal fin emarginate, two-thirds scaly ; anal spines short, rather feeble, the tliird
longer than the second, and equal in length to the last dorsal spine. Upper and
lateral parts brownish-olive, each scale with a peaii-coloured spot, the spots forming
together very distinct longitudinal stripes ; no black lateral spot ; hind part of the root
of the pectoral brown. Lower parts salmon-coloured.
We have six examples : two, 15 inches long, were collected by jNIr. Salvin at Cliiapiun ;
and four others were sent by Capt. Dow from the Pacific coast of Panama.
21. Apogox dovii.
(math. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1861, p. 371.
D. 6 I J. A. '=. L. lat. 25. L. transv. 3/9.
A roundish black spot on each side of the root of the caudal ; the spinous dorsal
colourless, ti'ansparent ; uniform olive (in spirits). Head densely punctulated witli
brown. Only the hind margin of the posterior proeopcrcular ridge is serrated. Dorsal
fins nearly equal in height.
The height of the body is one-third of the total length (without caudal) ; the hnigth
of the head two-fifths; eye large, its diameter being more than one-third of the length
of the head. Palatine and vomerine teeth present. The upper jaw overlaps slightly
the lower ; maxillary extending backwards to below the posterior third of the orbit.
Operculum with an up])er flexible point, and with a lower stiff spine. The third dorsal
spine is a little longer than the second, one-half the length of the head. Caudal fin
slightly emarginate, with the angles rounded.
Total length 26 lines.
This species is so closely allied to Jl. iiier/nis from the Mediterranean, that perhaps
414 DE. GUNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CEXTEAL AMEEICA.
it would be better not to separate it ; the only difference which I can find is the form
of the soft dorsal fin, which is considerably higher than the spinous in the MediteiTanean
species.
22. Pristipoma melanopteeum.
Pnstipoma melanopterum, Cuv. & Val. v. 1830, p. 273.
bUineatum, Cuv. & Val. v. 1830, p. 271, pi. 122.
Hamulon melanopterum, Ranzani, Comm. Bonon. v. 1842, p. 343, tab. 30.
Pristipoma melanopterum, Giintli. Fish. i. 1859, p. 287.
Var. Genytremus interruptus, GiU, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1862, p. 256.
Pristipoma melanopterum, Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, pp. 23 & 27.
This species occurs on both sides of Central America, Capt. Dow having collected
specimens at Panama and Colon. Mr. Gill has found it also in a collection of fishes
from Lower California. He describes his Pacific specimen as a distinct species ; but the
distinctive characters are, according to my views, not of specific value. He mentions it
in the following terms : —
" The species is so closely allied to hilineatus, that it might be even considered as a
variety, but it appears to differ by the steel-blue colour of the back, and the discon-
tinuance of the lateral band a short distance before the spot on the taiP ; at its end the
liand is bounded below by the lateral line. In other respects, the two species are so
similar, that a detailed description would be only a repetition of that of hilineatus.''
23. Pristipoma virginicum.
We have examined specimens of this species from the West Indies, from the Atlantic
coasts of Central America, and from Bahia. Mr. Gill has described an example from
Panama under the denomination of Anisotremus tceniafus, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. 1861,
p. 107. Although six or seven is the normal number of longitudinal bands, it is some-
times increased by a more or less complete division of one or several bands. It appears
to be more natural to consider the golden colour the ground-colour than the blue, as
after death it fades into the same colour as that of the space between the black vertical
bands. In e^Z specimens, I have found the bluish bands edged with purplish. Mr. Gill,
in describing his A. tceniatiis, has taken the blue colour as ornamental, whilst in his
description of A. virgiiiicus the character assigned to the colours is reversed, and the
blue colour regarded as ground-colour. There is no specific difference between these
fishes.
24. Pristipoma dovii.
Guuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G4, p. 23, pi. 3. fig. 1.
D. }=. A. J. L. lat. 48. L. transv. 8/15.
The height of the body is one-half of the total length (without caudal) ; the length
of the head one-third. Snout obtuse, not much longer than the eye ; cleft of the
' This is also the case in some Atlantic specimens.
DR. GUNTHER ON TIIE FISHES OP CENTRAL AMERICA. 415
mouth small, the maxillary extending to the vertical from the anterior margm of the
orbit. Lips thick ; a pair of pores on the symphysis of the lower jaw, a central groove
behind it. Snout naked, the remainder of the head being scaly. The width of the
interorbital space is much less than that of the orbit. Dorsal and anal spines exceed-
ingly strong ; the third of the dorsal fin is the longest, and nearly two-thirds as long as
the head. The second anal spine is much longer than the third, and a little shorter
(but stronger) than the third of the dorsal fin. Each ray of the soft fins is accompanieil
by a series of minute scales, but only on the caudal fin are these scales dense enough
to cover the rays. Caudal fin slightly emarginate. Silvery, with four black cross
bands ; the first runs from the occiput, through the eye, to behind the angle of the
mouth, the second from before the dorsal fin to below the base of the pectoral, the
third from the base of the sixth, seventh, and eighth dorsal spines to the vent ; the
fourth descends from the origin of the soft dorsal to that of the soft anal. Fins
blackish. The cross bands appear to become fainter in old age.
Two specimens, 8^ and 9 inches long, in the collection from Panama.
25. Pkistipoma chalceum.
Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 146.
D. {j. A. ^,. L. lat. 5G. L. transv. 11/19.
The height of the body is contained twice and two-thirds in the total length (without
caudal), the length of the head thrice and a third. The diameter of the eye is nearly
equal to the width of the interorbital space, and two-thirds of the extent of the snout.
The maxillary does not extend backwards to the vertical from the anterior margin of
the orbit. Prseoperculum minutely serrated behind, with the angle rounded, but not
produced. There is no notch between the spinous and soft portions of the dorsal fin,
the hinder spines being only a little shorter than the anterior rays ; dorsal spines of
moderate strength, the fourth being the longest, not quite half as long as the head ;
anal spines short, the second being only a little longer than the thii-d, two-sevenths of
the length of the head. Caudal fin subtruncated, scarcely emarginate. Dorsal and
anal perfectly scaleless. The pectoral fin extends to the vertical from the vent.
Bronze-coloured, shining silvery, perfectly immaculate; vertical fins blackish, with an
indistinct light band along the base.
One specimen, 8 inches long, was discovered by Messrs. Dow and Salvin on the
Pacific coast of Panama.
2G. Pristipoma humile.
Kner & Steindachner, Sitzgsber. Ak. Wiss. Miinch. 1863, p. 222; and Abhandl. bayer. Ak. Wiss. x.
p. 3, tab. 1. fig. 1.
D. % A. I L. lat. 56. L. transv. n.^,.. Cjec. pyl. 3.
The height of the body is contained thrice and two-tliirds in tlie total length (without
4]fi DE. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF t'ENTRAL AIMEEICA.
caudal), the length of the head thrice. The diameter of the eye equals the widtli of
the interorbital space, is one-fifth of the length of the head, and two-thirds of the
extent of the snout. Snout produced ; cleft of the mouth wide ; the maxillary extend-
ing beyond the front margin of the eye. Praeoperculum with the hind margin vertical
and finely serrated. The spinous and soft portions of the dorsal fin are separated by a
notch ; dorsal spines modevately strong, the fourth being the longest, its length being
contained twice and three-fourths in that of the head. Second anal spine exceedingly
strong, more than half as long as the head. Caudal fin slightly emarginate ; pectorals
terminating at some distance before the vent. Scales ctenoid. Coloration uniform.
This species is known from a single example (size not stated) from the Rio Bayano
(Panama).
27. Pristipoma macracanthum. (PI. LXIV. fig. 1.)
(xunth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 146.
D. ll|i. A. 3/8. L. lat. 47. L. transv. 0/13.
The height of the body equals the length of the head, and is one-third of the total
(without caudal). The diameter of the eye equals the width of the interorbital space,
iind is two-thirds, or somewhat less than two-thirds, of the extent of the snout. Hind
margin of the anterior nostril with a broad flap. Snout somewhat produced ; the
maxillary does not extend to below the anterior margin of the eye. Prgeoperculum
with the hind margin rather concave, and with stronger teeth at the angle, which is
rounded. The spinous and soft portions of the dorsal fin are separated by a deep
notch, the spine of the soft portion being much longer than the preceding, which is
somewhat longer than the second. Dorsal and anal spines exceedingly strong; the
fourth dorsal spine is the longest, its length being contained tmce and a third in that
of the head. The second anal spine much longer and stronger than the third, and even
than the fourth dorsal spine. Caudal fin truncated. Each soft ray of the vertical fins
is accompanied by a series of minute scales. The pectoral fin extends to the vent.
Scales smooth. Silverv. with several very indistinct dark cross bands on the back,
which appear to be arranged as in P. leuciscus.
Two specimens, 11 and 14 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam.
29. Pristipoma leuciscus. (PI. LXVI. fig. 3.)
(ruuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 18G+, p. 117.
D. nil. A. 3,7-8. L. lat. 51. L. transv. ^\
i 1.J lU
The height of the body is contained thrice or thrice and a third in the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head thrice and a fourth. The diameter of the eye
is equal to, or more than, the width of the interorbital space, but is less than the extent
of the snout. The maxillary does not quite extend backwards to the vertical from the
anterior margin of the orbit. Prieoperculum finely serrated behind, with the angle
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FlSHE.S OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 417
rounded, and with the hind margin slightly concave. Tlie spinous and soft portions of
the dorsal fin are separated by a deep notch, the spine of the soft portion being nearly
twice as long as the preceding. Dorsal spines long, of moderate strength : the third is
the longest, and one-half, or more than one-half, as long as the head. Anal spines
rather strong : the third is a little longer than the second, equal to the seventh dorsal
spine, and more than one-third of the length of the head. Caudal fin emarginate.
Each soft ray of the vertical fins is accompanied by a series of minute scales. The
pectoral fin extends to the vertical from the origin of the anal in the younger example,
but is shorter in adult ones. Scales smooth, bright silvery ; young specimens with
several very indistinct dark cross bands on tlie back, the first from the nape of the neck
to the gill-opening, the second below the seventh dorsal spine, the third below the last
dorsal spine ; old specimens with the marginal membrane of the operculum black.
One specimen, 7^ inches long, was found by Mr. Salvin at San Jose. Three others,
from 11 to 12 inches long, are from Chiapam ; and C'apt. Dow found it also at Panama,
where it does not appear to be rare.
30. COXODON PACIFICI. (PI. LXIV. fig. ?).)
Gunth. Proc. Zool. S(X'. 1861, p. It".
D. 11 l^. A. ^. L. lat. 17. L. transv. 7/13.
Diagnosis. — The spinous teeth at the angle of the praeoperculum are not much
stronger than the others. The height of the body is contained twice and two-fifths in
the total length (without caudal).
One specimen, 12^ inches long, was collected by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam.
Descrqjfioii . — The body is compressed, and considerably elevated; its greatest height,
which is below the fifth dorsal spine, is contained twice and three-fourths in the total
length. Upper profile lounded from the first dorsal spine to the nape, concave over
the eyes, whence it descends abruptly over the snout. The upper surface of the head
is very broad, the space between the eyes bemg nearly twice the width of the orbit.
The snout is thick and obtuse ; the lips thick and fleshy. Teeth in a villiform band in
both jaws, with an outer series of conical teeth. Chin with a median groove and a
pair of pores. Posterior limb of praeoperculum straight, regularly and distinctly
serrated, the teeth becoming gradually a little larger at the angle, and continued on
the lower limb ; the entire surface of the pra-operculum is covered with scales, which
are smaller than those of the operculum, and reach to the margin of the bone. The
operculum has a notch behind, between two obtuse and feeble points. Suprascapular
margin indistinctly toothed or roughened. The origin of the dorsal is in the vertical
from the root of the pectoral, and its termination is vertically opposite to that of the anal ;
the base of the spinous portion is nearly twice as long as that of the soft. The spines
are strong, broader alternately on one side than on the other; the first is small, not
quite one-half the length of the second, whicli is rather more than half that of the
VOL. VI. — PART VII. 3 M
418
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
third ; the third spine is three-fourths the length of the fourth ; the fifth is the
longest, its length being contained twice and two-thirds in the height of the body ;
the sixth and fourth spines are equal in height, and the subsequent spines decrease
gradually iu length ; the twelfth, which must be considered part of the soft dorsal, is
slightly longer than the preceding spine, and equal to the tenth. The soft portion has
a rounded margin ; the third or highest ray is not quite equal to the fifth spine, and is
twice as long as the last. The spinous portion as Avell as the soft can be received into
a scaly sheath. The caudal fin is very slightly emarginate, scaly to within a short
distance from its tip, and one of its longest rays is nearly one-fifth of the total length.
The distance between the caudal and anal fins is less than the base of the latter ; the
first anal spine is opposite to the third ray of the dorsal, it is strong, broader on the right
side, and e.xcavated posteriorly, and is one-half the length of the second, which is very
long and strong, equal in length to the fifth dorsal spine, and broader on the left side ;
the third anal spine is equal to the third of the dorsal, and little more than half the
height of the first ray ; the first and second rays are the longest, and the margin of the
soft portion is vertical. The pectoral is moderately long, its length being contained
four times and a half in the total. Root of ventral immediately behind that of
pectoral ; the spine is of moderate size and strength, a little more than half the length
of the first ray, which is produced about one-eighth of an inch at its tip ; the other rays
decrease gradually in height. The scales are of moderate size, very finely crenated,
with the margin convex. The lateral line is parallel with the curve of the back. Scales
silvery, with purple reflexions ; membrane between the scales brown ; fins blackish.
34. H.EMULON BREVmOSTRUM.
D.
^- 8^-
L, lat. 50. L. transv. 5 14.
This species is closely allied to //. chromis and H. canna, differing from both by its
much shorter and more convex snout.
The height of the body is contained twice and
two-thirds in the total length (without caudal),
the length of the head thrice and one-fourth.
The snout is short, not much longer than the
diameter of the eye, which is more than one-
fourth of the length of the head. Cleft of the
mouth rather wide, the maxillary extending
beyond the vertical from the front margin of
the eye. Hind margin of the praeoperculum
slightly emarginate, its angle with more con-
spicuous denticulations. Dorsal fin notched, ^^ ^
with strong spines ; the fourth is the longest, ((w ^ ^
half as long as the head. Caudal fin forked.
DR. GtJNTHBR ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 419
The second anal spine is strong, and somewhat longer than the tliird, hut not quite as
long as the fourth of the dorsal fin. Scales above the pectoral fin not conspicuously
larger than the others. More or less conspicuous oblique brown streaks run along the
series of scales, and are broken up into series of spots in larger examples. A vertical
black spot covered by the angle of tlie procoperculum.
We possess four examples of this species : three were collected by ('apt. Dow at
Panama; and the fourth is from Puerto CabcUo. The largest is 8 inches long.
35. H^MULOX MARGARITIFERUM. (PI. LXV. fig. 2.)
Ouiith. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 147.
D. jl A. l\. L. lat. 55. I-. transv. 6 15.
T])e height of the body is one-third of the total length (witliout caudal), the length
of tlic head two-sevenths. The diameter of the eye is two-sevenths of the latter, and
equal to the extent of the snout and to the width of the interorbital space, which is
very convex. The maxillary extends beycmd the vertical from the anterior margin of
the eye. Prseojierculum emarginate behind. Dorsal fin scarcely notched, with the
soft portion very low ; its spines are moderately strong, the fourth is the longest, not
quite half as long as the head. Anal spines strong ; the second is longer and stronger
than the third, and equal to the eighth of the dorsal. The soft vertical fins enveloped
in scales ; caudal forked, with the upper lobe longest. The pectoral fin does not extend
to the vent. Greenish olive above, each scale with a pearl-coloured centre ; sides
silvery ; a blackish spot above the axil.
One specimen, 12 inches long, was obtained by Messrs. Dow and Sahin on the
Pacific coast of Panama.
39. Ch.ETODOX HUMERALIS. (PI. LXV. fig. o.)
(jiiiith. Fish. ii. p. 19.
I have given a full description of this species (/. c). The Pacific coast of Central
America appears to be its true home. Messrs. Salvin and Dow collected tliree speci-
mens at Panama ; and our other specimens, which we received from the Haslar Collec-
ti(m, are probably from Guatemala, from wliich country Sir J. Richardson, as we
know, obtained a collection of fishes. I have no doubt that the statement of this
species extending to the Sandwich Islands is correct. The Panama examples differ
from the typical specimens only in ha\ing an additional black cross band near the
hind margin of the caudal fin.
41. POMACANTIirs ZOU'KCTUS.
Pomaranthodes zonipectus, Ciill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Pliilad. IHO.'J, p. '211.
■'The form much resembles that of Fomaconthus. The greatest height equals three-
3 M 2
420 DE. GiJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
fifths of the length. The head forms about a quarter, and the caudal fin about a sixth of
the total length. . . . The dorsal is considerably produced at the sixth ray, which passes
behind the rounded posterior margin. . . . Brownish, margined with light on each scale.
A very dark brown band girdles the breast behind the pectoral and ventral fins." . . .
Obtained by Capt. Dow at San Salvador.
43. Upeneus tetraspilus. (PI. LXVI. fig. 1.)
Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 148.
D. 8|9. A. 7. L. lat. 33. L. transv. 2 6.
The height of the body equals the length of the head, and is contained thrice and
two-fifths in the total (without caudal) ; the width of the interorbital space is two-
thirds of tlie length of the snout. Teeth in both jaws in two series, the outer series of
the upper jaw being formed by very obtuse and partly confluent teeth. The maxillary
is dilated and rounded behind, and bent upwards into a sort of hook ; the barbels
extend to the vertical from the root of the pectoral. The third and fourth dorsal
spines are subequal in length, longer than the second, and nearly three-fourths of the
length of the liead. Greenish olive above, each scale above and below the lateral line
with a large pearl-coloured spot ; sides yellow ; a rose-coloured band on each side of the
belly. A large blackish blotch on the lateral line, behind the hind part of the spinous
dorsal fin. A second smaller blackish spot behind the orbit ; the latter is sometimes
very indistinct.
Two specimens, 8^ inches long, were collected by Messrs. Dow and Salvin on the
Pacific coast of Panama.
This species would belong to the division which has been called Mulloides.
44. Upexeus graxdisquamis.
Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Pliilad. 18G3, p. 168.
This species, which belongs to Bleeker's division Upeneiis, is described thus : —
D. S|g. A. 7. L. lat. 30. L. transv. 2i/5.
The greatest height is contained four times in the length to the end of the median
caudal rays, and four times and a half in the total. The head equals the height, and is
itself longer than high, the profile in front of tlie eyes rapidly declines downwards, and
is nearly rectilinear. The diameter of the eye enters tlirice and a half in the head's
length, and the height of the preorbitar twice and three-fourths. The supramaxillar
ends at the vertical from the front of the eye. Tlie teeth in front of the upper jaw are
biserial ; below uniserial. The first dorsal fin is highest at the third spine, and there
equals the head in front of the prseopercular margin ; the first is exceedingly short, and
the second and fourth nearly equal, little shorter than the third ; all the spines are very
slender towards the ends. The distance of the second from the first dorsal enters once
DR. GiJJNTHER ON THE FISHKS OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 421
and three-fourths in the base of tlie former, and in that interval are three scales ; its
length is less than that of the first. The ventral equals the distance of the hinder
margin of the orbit from the snout. The tubes of the lateral line have slender branches
diverging from them, generally directed obliquely upwards. The larger scales have six
radiating strise. The colour is light greenish brown above, with an indistinct silvery
spot at the centre of each scale. Below the lateral line, especially between it and the
anal tin, the colour is rose. The dorsal fins covered with spots of the colour of the
back. The others are immaculate.
Two specimens, the longest of which is 7^ inches long, were collected by C'apt. Dow
on the Pacific coast of Central America.
47. Chrvsophrys calamus.
A fine example, 16 inches long, has lately been sent by C'apt. Dow from Panama.
49. ClRRHITlCHTHYS RIVULATUS. (Plate I.XXXVL fig. 4.)
Cirrhitts rivulatiw, Valeiic. Voy. Venus, Poiss. p. 309, pi. 3. fig. 1 (bad) .
D. [j. A. g. L. lat. 47. L. transv. 6 14.
The height of the body is contained thrice in the total length (without caudal), the
length of the head twice and two-thirds. The snout is of moderate extent, compressed
and rather elevated ; the maxillary extends beyond the front margin of the eye. Inter-
orbital space deeply concave, and half as wide as the orbit ; a low longitudinal median
crest ou the crown of the head. Pra;operculum finely serrated behind. The fourtli,
fifth, and sixth dorsal spines are the longest, two-sevenths of tlie length of the head, all
are of moderate strength. Seven simple pectoral rays, none of which extend so far
backwards as the ventral fin. The second anal spine is longer, but scarcely stronger,
than the third. Brownish, with transverse dark brown bands and spots, all of which
are edged Avith light blue. There are two of these bands on the head crossing the
praioperculum ; five on the body and tail, composed of large, more or less confluent,
round spots ; especially the third and fourth terminate above each in a pair of large
spots, the first pair occupying the end of the spinous and commencement of the soft
dorsal, the second the basal portion of the end of the soft dorsal. Caudal and anal fins
with similar ocellated spots ; a brown band across the inner side of the root of the
pectoral.
A single example of this beautiful species, 6 inches hmg, was obtained by Capt. Dow
at Panama. The typical specimen was obtained at the Galapagos Islands.
51. POLYNE-MUS 3IEL.1X0P0MA.
(iiiiitli. I'roc. Zool. Soe. 1864, p. 148.
D. 7|y2- -'^- js- L. lat. 73.
Nine free pectoral appendages, the longest of which extends to the vent. Praopcr-
422 DR. GUNTHBR ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
culuni finely serrated, with a small spine above the angle. The vomerine teeth form a
rounded patch ; the band of the palatine teeth is as broad anteriorly as the front part
of the intermaxillary band. Operculum black.
A single specimen, 15 inches long, was obtained by Mr. Salvin at San Jose.
Description. — This fish is elongated in form, its greatest height being contained five
times and a half in the total length, with the caudal, and four times and one-sixth
without it. The tail is compressed, its height above the end of the anal fin being half
the length of the head. The head is much longer than high, and is containii'd four
times and two-thirds in the total length with the caudal, and thrice and one-third with-
out it ; its width between the eyes is two-ninths of its length. Snout produced beyond
the mouth, obtusely conical, and shorter than the diameter of the eye, which is con-
tained five times and a half in the length of the head. The cleft of the mouth is
situated on the inferior side of the head, it is extremely wide, the maxillary being more
than half the length of the head. The posterior margin of the pra?operculum is finely
seirated ; the ang|e is produced, forming a rounded membranaceous lobe. The posterior
margin of the opercular apparatus is membranaceous, rounded, and formed by the oper-
culum and suboperculum. The origin of the fii-st dorsal is in the vertical from the ninth
scale of the lateral line, or from a point about midway between the pectoral and ventral
fins. The first spine is minute, the second is the strongest, all the others being flexible ;
the third is the longest, contained once and two-thirds in the length of the head ; the
fourth is longer than the second, and the following rapidly decrease in length. A series
of scales ascends behind the second, third, and fourth spines, but disappears at the fifth ;
the distance between the two dorsals equals the length of the base of the second, which
is entirely covered with scales and has the ujjper edge strongly emarginate ; the second
ray is the longest, nearly as high as the spinous dorsal, and twice the height of the last
ray. The distance betAveen this fin and the caudal is one-fourth of the total length
(without caudal). The caudal fin is completely covered with scales, deeply forked, with
the lobes pointed, the upper one being slightly the longer, and one-fourth of the total
length. The distance between the anal and caudal fins is less than that between the
caudal and dorsal, as the termination of the anal falls behind that of the dorsal, and in
the vertical from the 52nd scale of the lateral line. It is entirely covered with scales ;
and its origin corresponds to that of the seventh ray of the dorsal ; its lower edge is
emarginate ; the first spine is very small, the second being only one-third the length of
the first ray ; the first and second rays are the longest, and about thrice the length of
the thirteenth or final ray, which, however, is rather longer than the one which pre-
cedes it. The pectoral is nearly one-sixth of the total length ; its root is covered with
minute transparent scales. The free pectoral appendages are long, the third and fourth
being the longest, considerably longer than the pectoral fin, and reaching to the vent ;
the fourth is one-eighth of an inch longer than the head. The root of the ventral fin
falls behind that of the pectoral, and in a vertical from the twelfth scale of the lateral
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 423
line ; it is short, one-eighth of the total lengtli, and does not quite reach the vent ; its
spine is ahout one-half the length of the adjacent ray. The scales are of moderate size,
longer than high, and have the posterior margin minutely crenulated. Lateral line
straight, very slightly bifurcated between the lobes of the caudal. The teeth are
minute and villiform, those of the vomer form a rounded or nearly square patch ; the
band on the palatines cuneiform and elongated, broadest anteriorly. The body is
uniform silvery, greenish grey, darker on the back ; the fins are minutely dotted with
black, the dorsals becoming blackisli at their margins. Operculum black.
•32. TOLY-NEMUS APPROXI.\IANS.
Pulyneiiius upproa^imans, Lay & Bciiu. in Beechey's Voy. Zool. Fisli. p. 57.
Trichidion approximans, (iill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 18(;.'5, p. 1G9.
I). 7 I ^3. A. jl. T. lat. GO.
Six pectoral appendages, the longest of which reaches to the commencement of the
anal fin. The length of the caudal lobes is rather more tlian one-fourth of the total
length. Pectoral fins blackisli.
Description. — This fish is moderately elongate in form; its greatest height, whicli is
between the root of the second dorsal and anal fins, is contained four times and one-third
in the total length with the caudal, and thrice and one-fourth in the same without
caudal. The tail is compressed, its height above the end of the anal being contained
seven times and one-third in the total length. The head is much longer than high ; its
length is about four times and a half in the total with, and thrice and a half without
caudal; its width between the eyes is nearly one fourth of its lengtli. Tlie snout is
produced, obtusely conical, and sliorter than the diameter of the eye, whicli is one-fifth
of the length of the head. The cleft of the mouth is situated at the inferior side of
the head, as usual ; it is wide ; the maxillary reaching considerably beliind the orbit,
but the length of the bone is only two-fifths of that of the head. The posterior margin
of the praeoperculum is armed with a distinct serrature, and one or two more distinct
teeth above the projecting membranaceous lobe of the angle. 'l"he posterior extremity
of the opercular apparatus is angular, membranaceous, and formed by the operculum
and suboperculum. The origin of the first dorsal is opposite to the eighth scale of the
lateral line, and in the vertical between the roots of the pectoral and ventral fins. The
first spine is minute, the second shorter than the third, whicli is the longest, and con-
tained about once and one-third in the length of the head ; the fourth is longer tlian tlie
second ; and the subsequent spines rapidly decrease in length, rendering the upper
margin almost vertical. There is a series of scales behind each spine almost to the top.
The distance between the two dorsals is more than the length of the base of the
second, which is entirely covered with scales and has the upper margin emarginate ;
the first and second rays are the longest, not so higli as the spinous dorsal, more tlian
twice as long as the hindmost ravs. The distance between this fin and the caudal is
424 DR. GiJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMERICA.
one-fifth of the total length. The caudal tin is completely covered with scales, deeply
forked, with the lobes pointed, the upper one being rather the longer. The distance
between the caudal and anal fins is less than that between the dorsal and caudal, as the
extremity of the anal falls behind that of the dorsal, or in the vertical from the forty-
third scale of the lateral line. Its origin corresponds to that of the dorsal ; and it has
the lower edge straight or very slightly emarginate ; it is entirely covered with scales.
The first two spines are very small, and the third not half the length of the first ray ;
the first and second rays are the longest, but not twice as long as the fifteeenth or
terminal ray. The length of the pectoral is not one-fourth of the total ; it has minute
scales towards the base. The free pectoral appendages are six in number ; the upper
one is the longest, reaching to the anal fin, and is not quite one-third of the total
length. The root of the ventral falls a little behind the middle of the pectoral, and in
the vertical from the eleventh scale of the lateral line; it is short, one-eighth of the
total length, reaching to the vent ; its spine is more than half the length of the
adjacent ray. The scales are of moderate size, scai'cely higher than long, and minutely
ciliated on the posterior margin. The lateral line is straight, bifurcating between the
lobes of the caudal. Teeth on the vomer in a narrow transverse patch.
Two specimens, 12 inches long, are in the Collection, one found by Mr. .Salvin at
C'hiapam, the other by Capt. Dow at Panama.
Mr. Gill first recognized this species, which is not identical with P. aant/tonemus, as
suggested in the ' Catal. of Fishes.'
5-3. POLYNEMUS OPERCULARIS.
Trichidion opercularis, Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Pliilad. 1803, p. 169.
This fish is described thus : —
D. 8j ^. A. ^. L. lat. 69-70. L. transv. 8 14.
The greatest height equals a fourth of the length to the fork of the caudal fin, and
more than a fifth of the extreme, while the head enters four times and a half in the
latter. The outline from the dorsal to the snout is nearly rectilinear and little declined.
The distance of the anal from the outer axil of the ventral equals that of the posterior
nostril from the margin of operculum. The first dorsal, when bent backwards, rests on
the fourth scale, in front of the second. The second commences nearly above the
twentieth scale of the lateral line. The pectoral is as long as the head behind the
pupil. There are eight pectoral filaments, the longest of which extends rather beyond
the front of the second dorsal. T'he colour is greenish brown above and yellowish green
below. The operculum is blackish. The first dorsal and the pectorals, except below,
are also blackish, as is likewise the margin of the caudal. The anal is tinged with
orange.
A single specimen, 1 1 inches long, was collected by Capt. Dow at Panama.
DE. GTTNTHEE ON THE FL'^HES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 425
54. Larimus breviceps.
Larimus hreviceps, Ciiv. & Val. v. p. 116, pi. 11 J. Giinth. l'"i.sli. ii. p. 268.
Amhiyscion argenteus. Gill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Piiilad. 18()1, p. Ki").
Ha^^ng recently received a fine example of this fish from Panama through Capt. Dow,
I have convinced myself that the Pacific examples are not specifically, much less
generically, distinct from West-Indian ones.
56. MiCROPOGOiV ALTIPINNIS.
Gunth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 18fi4, p. 149.
D. lOi.j^i. A. 2/7. L. lat. 48-50. L. transv. T'ln.
The height of the body is contained thrice and two-thirds in the total length (without
caudal), the length of the head thrice and a half The maxillary extends scarcely
beyond the vertical from the anterior margin of the eye. A series of five minute
barbels along each side of the mental groove. Two .short, strong, divergent spines at
the angle of the prEeoperculum. The third and fourth dorsal spines are long, their
length being three-fifths of that of the head ; anal spine of moderate strength, not quite
one-fourth of the length of the head. Nearly uniform silvery.
Two specimens were procured by Mr. Sahin — one, 17 inches long, at Chiapam. and
another, 14 inches long, at San Jose; a third specimen, A\ inches long, was found by
Capt. Dow at Panama : this agrees in every other respect with the older examples, but
of the minute barbels only a trace of the anterior (longest) pair is visible ; so that it
appears that this generic (!) character is developed with age.
57. Umbrika elongata. (PI. LXIV. fig. 2.)
Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 18(51, p. 148.
D. 1()|^. A. 1/7. L. lat. 70. L. transv. 7/22.
The height of the body is contained four times and a third in the total length (witliout
caudal), and five times if the caudal is included ; the length of the head is two-sevenths
of the total, or one-fourth if the caudal is included. The depth of the head is ccmtainod
once and three-fourths in its length. Snout long; the diameter of the eye is two-fiftlis
of the length of the snout, and one-fourth of the postorbital part of the head. Sym
physial barbel very short, as long as the posterior nostril. Pncoperculum without
distinct serrature. The length of the second dorsal spine is one-half of that of the
head. Posterior margin of the caudal /-shaped, the upper lobe being pointed, the
lower rounded ; anal spine ^ ery feeble. The maxillary extends to the vertical from the
anterior margin of the orbit. Upper parts blackish, shining silvery, the lower white.
One specimen, 17 inches long, was found by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam.
-PART VII.
3 N
426
DK. GUNTHER ON THE FI.SHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
58. Umbrixa x.\sus.
D lOl^L. A. 18. L. lat. 54. L. transv. G U.
The height of the body is contained four times in the total length (without caudal),
the length of the head thrice and one-fourth. Snout much produced beyond the
mouth, which is quite at the lower side of the snout. The diameter of the eye is two-
thirds of the length of the snout, and two-fifths of that of the postorbital portion of
the head. Symphysial barbel very short, scarcely as long as the posterior nostril.
Prseoperculum distinctly serrated. The second and third dorsal spines are as long as
the head, without snout. Posterior margin of the caudal finy-shaped, the upper lobe
being pointed, the lower rounded; anal spine very feeble. The maxillary extends to
below the centre of the orbit. Silvery, fins blackish.
One specimen, 10 inches long, was found by Capt. Dow at Panama.
D. 10
59. Umbrina analis.
A. 2/6. L. lat. 46-48.
L. transv. 615.
The height of the body is one-third of the total length (without caudal), the length
of the head two-sevenths. Snout compressed, rather deep, of moderate extent, longer
than the eye, which is two-ninths of the length of the head, and equal to the width of
the interorbital space. Snout overlapping the mouth, but not much protruding beyond
it. Barbel very short, scarcely as long as the posterior nostril. Prseoperculum
distinctly serrated. The second and third dorsal spines are not quite as long as the
head without snout. Caudal fin subtruncate. Anal spine very strong, more than half
as long as the head. The maxillary extends beyond the front margin of the eye. An
oblique dark streak runs along each series of scales. The spinous dorsal fin blackish.
One specimen, 11 inches long, was found by Capt. Dow at Panama.
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 427
1 thought it possible for sonic time that this fish might be identical with Umhrino
iindulata of Girard ; however, as this writer states that the anal spines of U. undulata
are feeble, and gives 1/9 for the number of anat rays, we are not justified in identifying
these two species.
61. CORVLXA f;HRYSOLKUC.\. (PI. LXVII. fig. 1.)
Allied to C. ronchus.
1). 10:^3. A. ^^. L. lat. 55-50. L. transv. ■^.
The height of the body is contained thrice in the total length (without caudal), the
length of the head thrice and one-third. Head thick ; snout obtuse, with the upper
jaw sliglitly overlapping the lower, as long as the diameter of the eye, which is con-
tained four times and two-thirds in the length of the head. The maxillary is nearly
entirely hidden by the prseorbital, and extends beyond the vertical from the centre of
the orbit. Teeth of the outer sei-ies of the upper jaw rather stronger than the others.
Interorbital space slightly convex, only one-third wider than the orbit, its width being
two-sevenths of the length of the head. Pi-aeoperculum with spinous teeth round its
margin, three on and below the angle being much stronger than the others. Supra-
scapular denticulated. The second dorsal spine is the strongest, and the third the
longest, being as long as the postorbital portion of the head. The second anal spine is
very strong, as long as the longest of the spinous dorsal, and not much shorter than the
first anal ray. Caudal fin irregularly rounded. Silvery, irregularly mottled with large
brownish patches shining golden. A young specimen (5 inches long) is more uniform
silvery.
Two specimens, 9 inches long, were collected by Capt. Dow at Panama.
I have observed in this species a most extraordinary variation in the size of the scales
above the lateral line, such as I do not recollect having seen in other Acanthopterygian
fishes. The two larger specimens are of nearly the same size ; yet the dorsal scales of
one arc only lialf the size of those of the other. The lateral line is composed of nearly
the same number of scales in both, and also the scales below the lateral are of nearly
the same size.
62. CORVI.NA VKRMICULARIS. (PI. LXVII. fig. 2.)
D. 10 1 1. A. l L. transv. ^.
The height of the body is a little more than one-third of the total length (without
caudal) ; the length of the head two-sevenths. Head moderately compressed, snout
obtuse, with the upper jaw overlapping the lower, a little longer than the diameter of
the eye, which is one-fifth of the length of the head. The maxillary is entirely hidden
by the pneorbital, and extends somewhat beyond the vertical from the centre of the
orbit. Teeth of the outer series of the upper jaw rather stronger than the others.
Interorbital space convex, only one-fourth wider than the orbit, its width being one-
3 X 2
42S DR. aUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
fourtli of the length of the head. PrEeopercukim with spinous teeth round its margin ;
they are rather widely set and of equally small size. Suprascapular scarcely denticu-
lated. The second dorsal spine is scarcely stronger than, and but half as long as, the
third, the length of which exceeds somewhat that of the postorbital portion of the
head. The second anal spine is very strong, rather shorter than the succeeding ray.
and equal in length to the postorbital portion of the head. Caudal fin rounded, with
the upper lobe slightly produced. Scales irregularly arranged. Purplish shining
silvery ; a purplish brown streak, obliquely ascending backwards, follows the middle of
each series of scales. Fins bnnvn.
A single specimen. 8 inches long, was found by ('apt. Dow at Panama.
63. CORVIN.V ARMATA.
Bairdiella nnmita, Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Se. Philad. 186;3. p. I(i4.
This species, which is evidently allied to C. ronchus, is described thus : —
D. 10 1 1 A. =. L. lat. 51. L. transv. 7 TO.
The height equals a fourth of the total length, of wliicli tlie liead forms a fourth.
The caudal fin equals the head behind the front margin of the eye. The diameter of
the eye enters four times and a half in the head's length, somewhat exceeds the inter-
orbital area, which is scarcely convex, and equals the snout. The fourth dorsal spine
is longest, and nearly equals half the head's length ; all are stout and robust. The
second dorsal commences nearly above the twentieth scale of the lateral line, or tip of
pectoral. The second anal spine is very strong, longer than the first ray, and nearly
equals the interval between the front of orbit and opercular fiap ; the soft fin behind is
incurved. The pectoral equals the interval between the middle of the pupil and the
opercular flap, and the ventral that between the front of the pupil and the same. The
colour is hoary above, silvery below ; the fins yellowish ; the vertical, especially the
first dorsal, clouded with darker.
P'ound by Capt. Dow at Panama.
64. CORVINA OPHIOSCION.
Ophioscion typicujf, Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 1(51.
D. 10 j 22123- -•^- f I^- Ifit- ■^9- L. transv. j^.
The height of the body is nearly equal to the length of the head, and two-sevenths of
the total (without caudal). Head rather low, snout obtuse, but prominent, with the
upper jaw projecting beyond the lower, the cleft of the mouth being quite at the lower
side of the snout. The diameter of the eye equals the extent of the snout, and is two-
ninths of the length of the head. The maxillary is entirely hidden by the prieorbital,
and extends to below the middle of the orbit. Teeth of the outer series of the upper
jaw rather stronger than the others. Interorbital space scarcely convex, only one-third
DE, GUNTHEK ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 420
wider than the orbit, its width being two-sovcntlis of the length of the liead. Vrx-
operculum with straight, widely-set, spinous teeth round its margin, those on or mar
the angle being slightly the strongest. The second dorsal spine is the strongest, the
third the longest, its length being more than that of the postorbital portion of the
head. The seccjnd anal spine is exceedingly strong, about as long as the third dorsal
spine, or as the first anal ray. (.'audal fin irregularly rounded. Uniform silvery ; top
of the spinous dorsal blackish.
This species appears to be scarce at Panama. C'apt. Dow having collected only two
examples, of 8 and 6 inches in length.
65. Otolithus squamipinnis.
D. 8|2,\3.,. A. ^j. L. lat. 85.
Scales rather irregularly arranged ; there are nine longitudinal series between the
origin of the first dorsal fin and tlie lateral line, and five or six between the end of the
second dorsal fin and the lateral line. The height of the body is contained four times
and one-sixth in the total length (without caudal), the length of the head thrice and
one-fourth. T/Ower jaw very prominent, the extent of the snout being contained thrice
and one-tliird in the length of the head. The width of the interorbital space is more
than the diameter of the eye, and equals the extent of the upper jaw from the orbit.
The maxillary extends to the vertical from the hind margin of the orbit. Prttopercular
angle slightly produced, dilated into a membranaceous margin which is faintly striated.
The spinous dorsal is longer than high ; the spines are feeble, the length of the third
being two-fifths of that of the head. Caudal fin rounded, the middle rays being the
longest. The membrane of the soft dorsal and anal fins is covered with small, transpa-
rent scales, which form a thickish cover on the base of these fins. The length of the
pectoral is three-fifths of that of tlie head. Body uniformly coloured, scales on the
sides minutely punctulated with brf)wn ; liinder side of the axil of the pectoral brown.
Inner membrane of the gill-cover black. Ventral yellowisli.
Two specimens, 10 & 11 inches long, were collected by Capt. Dow at Panama.
6G. OtOUTUUS ALliUS.
Giiuth. Proc. Zuol. Soc. I SCI, p. U9.
D. 10 .;^. A. 2 9.
Scales rather irregularly arranged ; there are seven series between the origin of tlie
dorsal fin and the lateral line. The height of the body is one-fourth of the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head two-sevenths. The extent of the snout is one-
fourth of the length of the head ; the maxillary extends somewhat beyond the vertical
from the posterior margin of the eye. Proeopercular angle not produced behind. The
spinous dorsal is much longer than high ; its spines are feeble, the length of the fourth
430 DE. GUNTHER OX THE FISHES OF CEMKAL AMEWCA.
being two-fifths of that of the head. Caudal fin rounded, witli the middle rays pro-
duced. The second anal spine is truly spinous, not flexible, two-fifths of the length of
the first soft ray. INIembrane of the dorsal and anal fins not scaly. Tlie pectoral fin
extends as far backwards as the ventral, being more tlian half as long as the head.
Immaculate, silvery, back greenish. (Pseudobranchiiie present.)
One specimen, 14^ inches long, was obtained by Mr. Salvin at C'hiapam.
67. OtOLITHUS RETICULATUS.
(nuith. Froc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. U9.
1). IOI^tjjVt- a. 11(2.9).
Closely allied to 0. caroUnensis. Scales rather irregularly arranged ; there are nine
series between the origin of the dorsal fin and the lateral line. The height of the body
is contained four times and a third in the total length (without caudal) ; the length of
the head thrice and a third. The extent of the snout is two-sevenths of the length of
the head ; the maxillary does not extend backwards to the vertical from the posterior
margin of the eye ; prseopercular angle somewhat produced behind, membranaceous,
striated ; the posterior margin of the prscoperculum obliquely descending backwards.
The spinous dorsal is much longer than high ; its spines are feeble, tlie fourth being
the longest, two-fifths of the length of the head. Caudal fin subtruncated, the middle
rays somewhat produced. The first anal ray is quite rudimentary ; the second as long
as the eye, flexible, scarcely spinous. The pectoral fin extends as far backwards as the
ventral, being more than half as long as the head. Back and sides with an irregular
network of brown undulated streaks ; fins immaculate.
Two specimens were collected by Mr. Salvin — one, 15 inches long, at San Jose, the
other, 13 inches long, at Chiapam.
71. Caraxx leucurus.
Giiuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 24.
^'ery closely allied to C. bicolor.
The first dorsal fin is composed of short, stoutish spines, the fourth of which is the
longest, but scarcely longer than the eye. The soft dorsal and anal are rather elevated ;
the caudal is eraarginate, and has the lobes rounded. Teeth very small, forming a
single series in both jaws ; palate smooth. The height of the body is one-half of the
total length (without caudal), the length of the head one-third. Snout rather obtuse,
the jaws being equal in front when the mouth is closed ; the maxillary extends to
below the anterior margin of the orbit. The lateral line makes anteriorly a subsemi-
circular curve, the width of which is contained from once and two-thirds to once and
four-fifths in the length of the straight portion ; it becomes straight behind the vertical
DR. GUNTHER OX THE FISHES OF CEXTKAI, AMKRKA. 431
from the orijifin of the second dorsal, and is armed witli about fifty small and low
shields, only a few of which terminate in a depressed spine. The i)ectoral fin extends to
the anal spines. Brownish grey, body with six dark brown vertical bands ; the first
crosses the body behind the base of the pectoral, and the fourth descends from the
middle of the soft dorsal fin. Operculum with a largo black spot. Dorsal, anal, and
ventral black ; pectoral and caudal whitish.
Only two examples, three inches long, were found by Capt. Dow at Panama.
72. Caranx si'Eciosu.'; (Forsk.).
Having examined specimens from Panama, collected by Mr. Salvin, and compared
them with otliers from Borneo, Madras, Zanzibar, &c., I have convinced myself that (J.
panamensis, Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1S63, p. 1G6, is identical with C. speciosns.
74. C.vR.wx iiiri'os. L.
We have received two examples frcnn the Pacific coast of Panama from Capt. Dow.
The younger one, vvhich is 5 inches long, agrees in every point, especially in the height
of the body, with Atlantic examples of this species, whilst the older, 10 inches, is
identical with that remarkable form described by Mr. Gill as Varan fjiis )iiar(/inafi(fi
(Proc. Acad. Nat. 8c. Philad. 1863, p. 1G6). This is considerably lower in form than
the type, the height of the body being only two-sevenths of the total length ; but ha\iug
had an o})portunity of comparing the example first mentioned, I do not think it entitled
to specific rank, but regard it merely as a variety. The formula of fin rays in our
example is D. 7 U,. A. 2 I — .
75. Caraxx caballus.
Trachunts boops, Girard, U. S. Pac. R. R. Expetl. Fish. p. 108; (ninth. Fish. ii. p. 422 (not
C. boops, C. & v.).
D. 7|5^,. A.2|,^. L.lat. 37.
The teeth of the upper jaw form a villiform band, those of the outer series being a
little the larger ; tho.se of the lower are in a single series ; teeth on the vomer, the
palatines, and the tongue. The heiglit of the body is two-sevenths of the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head rather more than one-fourth. Eye with a
broad adipose membrane in front and behind. Breast scaly. The lateral line is curved,
the width of the arch being one-half of the length of the straight porticm ; the latter
commences in the vertical from the third dorsal ray ; the plates commence from the
beginning of the straight portion of the lateral line, and are well developed. Lower
jaw projecting beyond the upper ; maxillary extending to below the anterior rim of the
pupil. Pectoral reaching beyond the anterior anal rays. A black ojjcrcular spot.
Two specimens were collected by Capt. Dow at Panama : the species extends north-
wards to the coast of California.
432 DE. GtJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
76. Caranx caninus.
D. 8|^. A. 2|1. L. lat. 24.
The teeth in the upper jaw form a villiform band, those of the outer series being
much the stronger, and widely set. Lower jaw with a single series of rather strong,
closely set teeth, and with the two anterior ones somewhat enlarged, canine-like ; teeth
on the vomer, the palatines, and the tongue. The height of the body is a little more
than the length of the head, and one-third of the total (without caudal). Snout
obtuse, as long as the diameter of the eye ; eye with an adipose eyelid in front and
behind. Prseorbital much narrower than the orbit. The maxillary extends beyond
the vertical from the centre of the eye. Breast naked ; lateral line slightly bent, the
width of the arch being contained once and one-third in the length of the straight
portion ; the latter commences in the vertical from tlie fifth dorsal ray ; the plates do
not reach forward to the end of the arched portion, and are well developed. Lower
jaw scarcely projecting beyond the upper. Dorsal spines rather stout and short ; the
fourth is the longest, and one-tliird of the length of the head. Tlie pectoral extends to
the fifth anal ray. A black opercular spot. Membrane of the soft dorsal and anal
blackish.
One specimen, 7^ inches long, was discovered by Capt. Dow at Panama.
77. C'aranx dorsalis.
Carangoides dorsalis, Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 166.
D. 4-5 1 4 A. 2 14 L. lat. 25*.
The teeth in both jaws form villiform bands ; teeth on the vomer, the palatine bones,
and on the tongue. The height of the body is contained once and four-fifths in the
total length (without caudal), the length of the head thrice and one-fourth. The first
dorsal fin is but little developed, the spines being short, feeble, and flexible. Anterior
rays of the dorsal and anal fins prolonged into a very long filament, sometimes longer
than the whole body. Jaws equal in length, the maxillary extends to the vertical from
the front margin of the orbit, l^ateral line bent, the width of its arch being as long as
the straight portion ; the latter commences below the middle of the second dorsal fin.
The plates are moderately developed, and commence at some distance from the bend of
the lateral line. Gill-membrane above the pectoral blackish ; posterior half of the
ventrals black.
Panama. We have received two examples from Capt. Dow, one 19 inches long.
* Mr. Gill counted 44 ; this is either a mistake, or he has counted small scales not deserving the name of
plate-s.
DE. GtJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
D. 5j
ClIORINEMUS ALTUS.
The height of the body is contained thrice in tlie total length (without caudal), the
length of the head four times and one-fourth.
Eye rather large, its diameter being equal to
the length of the snout, and one-fourth of
that of the head. Lower jaw projecting be-
yond the upper. Maxillary very narrow
posteriorly, scarcely extending to the ver-
tical from the hind margin of the eye ; the
length of the intermaxillary is contained
once and three-fourths in the length of the
head. The infraorbital, situated above the
maxillary, is as broad as the bone next above
it ; none of these bones reach to the anterior
pi-seopercular ridge. Pectoral fin longer than
the ventral, nearly as long as the head (with-
out snout). Coloration uniform.
One example, 11 inches long, has been recently sent by Capt. Dow from Panama.
83. Chokinemus inorxatu.s.
Olic/oplites inornatus, Gill, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 1(5(),
D. 5 I ^. A. 2
"The height of the body enters four times and two-thirds in the total length; the
length of the head five times and two-thirds. The upper maxillary reaches nearly to
the vertical from the hinder margin of the orbit ; the intermaxillary enters t\\ice and
one-thu-d in the head's length. The snout is a little longer than the diameter of the
eye ; the latter equals a quarter of the head's length. The infraorbital bones do not
extend to the prajoperculum ; the one above the maxillary bones is wider than the one
above itself, and as wide as that behind the eye. The opercular apparatus is vertical in
front of the pectoral, and for an equal space above. The prsoperculum is nearly
vertical, and its angle obliquely rounded. The width of the operculum and suboper-
culum in front of the lower axilla of the pectoral equals the diameter of the eye and
the interval between suboperculum and axil. The pectoral equals the interval between
its axis and the hinder border of the pupil ; the ventral is rather shorter, but its end
almost or quite reaches to the anus. The colour is uniform, tinged with blue above."
One adult specimen was collected by Capt. Dow on the Pacific coast of Central
America.
VOL. VI. — PART VII.
3o
484 DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CFJ^fTRAL AMERICA.
85. Trachy.votus f.\.scutu.s. (Plate LXIX. fig. 4.)
Trachynotiisfaiidutus, Gill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 86.
glaucoUes, Giiiith. Proc. Zoo!. Soc. 1864, p. 150.
D. 6|,4. A.2\^.
Closely allied to T. glaucus, but witli tlie body more elevated. The height of tiie
body is one-lialf of the total lengtli (without caudal) ; the length of the head two-
sevenths. The maxillary extends to below the middle of the eye. Anterior dorsal and
anterior anal rays, and the caudal lobes, much prolonged, the length of the latter being
two-sevenths of the total. The ventral fin does not extend to the vent. Five narrow
blackish vertical bars across the lateral line.
One specimen, 7 inches long, was obtained by Mr. Salvin at San Jose ; two others,
11 inches long, were obtained by Capt. Dow at Panama.
Bescription. — This species has the body (without caudal) of a rhomboidal form, its
greatest height Ixnng between the last spine of the dorsal and the \c-nt, and one-half of
the total length (without caudal) ; the upper profile between the dorsal and the snout is
oblique, feebly convex over the eye. The length of the head is contained thrice and one-
half in the total (without caudal). The diameter of the eye is rather more than the length
of the snout, and contained thrice and two-tliirds in that of the head. The cleft of the
mouth is narrow ; the maxillary reaches nearly to the level of the centre of the diameter
of the eye ; its length is a little more than one-third of that of the head. The width of
the space between the eyes is more than one-third of the length of the head, or equal to
the distance from the tip of the snout to the centre of the eye. Prseoperculum with
the hinder margin straight, and at a right angle with the lower border, which is also
straight and parallel with the axis of the body. Operculum small, narrow, about two-
thirds as long as high ; the hinder border of the opercular apparatus is formed almost
entirely of the sub- and interoperculum ; it is rounded and membranaceous : the line of
the separation between the operculum and suboperculum is at right angles with that
between the sub- and interoperculum. There is a recumbent spine before the com-
mencement of the first dorsal, and in a line with the posterior part of the axil of the
pectoral ; the dorsal spines, seven in number, are short ; the first is minute, but erect,
and not attached by any apparent membrane to the second ; the others show a slight
progression in dimensions, and are united by a low membrane. The base of the soft
dorsal is not twice as long as tliat of the spinous ; the first two rays, which are the
longest, project considerably beyond any of the others, and are equal to half the length
of the body (without the caudal) ; the following rays diminish very rapidly in lengtli,
and from the eighth ray to the last the fin is scarcely higher than the spinous dorsal,
and its upper edge almost straight. The distance between the dorsal fin and the
caudal is equal to that between the anal and caudal. The anal fin is preceded by three
short spines about equal to the fourth, fifth, and sixth of the dorsal. The base of the
DR. GUNTIIER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 4.55
soft portion of the anal is about as long as that of the soft dorsal : it consists of
eigliteen rays, and perfectly resembles the soft dorsal in shape, having the first two rays
mu(:h longer than the others, equal to the corresponding rays in the dorsal, and the
following rays rapidly decreasing in length to the sixth, from which the margin of tlic
fin is almost straight. The pectoral fin is pointed, of moderate size, its length being
three-fourths that of the head. The ventrals are short, more tlian half the length of
the pectoral, and not reaching to the vent. The tail behind the dorsal and anal is
compressed and narrow. The caudal is deeply forked ; the lobes are equal, and con-
tained thrice and a half in tlie total length ; it is covered with small scales.
The body is covered with very minute scales ; those at tlie base of the vertical fins and
near the lateral line are a little larger. The head and opercular bones are entirely
naked. The lateral line shows a somewhat irregular sinuosity slightly above the median
axis of the body for the first half of its length, after which it is perfectly straight, termi-
nating between the two lobes of the caudal. Teeth small, villiform ; a small central
patch on the vomer, and a narrow one on each of the palatines.
Bluish green above, silvery beneath. Five vertical brown stripes down the sides of
the body across the lateral line, the first two being nearer together than the others,
which are at almost equal distances: the first behind the axil of the pectoral, the
second below the third dorsal spine, the third below the sixth, the fourth below the
seventh dorsal ray, and the fifth below the seventeenth. However, the second and
third of these bands are placed sometimes more backwards, which is evidently the case
in the example described by Mr. Gill, and named by him T. fasciatiis. Having recently
obtained two examples from Capt. Dow, one of which shows the arrangement of the
bands as in T. glaucoides, on one side, and that of T.fasciatus on the other, I cainiot
entertain any doubt as to the specific identity of these fishes.
86. Pelajiys sarda, B1.
AVe may mention this species here, although it is not contained in any of the collec-
tions forming the material for this Memoir, because Dr. Ayres alludes to it in the following
manner : — " A species oiPelamys brought to the markets of San Francisco is without ques-
tion the P. sarda. The closest examination fails to distinguish it from the Atlantic form.
Previous to this time we had no positive knowledge of any fisli in the low latitudes wliich
inhabits Californian waters and those of the Atlantic." — Proc. Calif. Acad. 1855, p. 74.
90. B.\TR.\ciius PACinci (Gthr.).
In other specimens recently collected by Capt. Dow at Panama, I find tlie membrane
at the bottom of the pouch of the axil of the pectoral fin (described in Fish. iii. p. 173)
folded and wrinkled, with a great quantity of coagulated mucus between the folds.
The same species appears to occur also on the coast of West Africa, a specimen having
been lately obtained by Dr. Steindachner, who describes it as B. libenensis (Sitzgsber.
Ak. Wiss. Wien, 1867, Iv. p. 525, Taf. 1. figs. 2 & 3).
o 2
436 DE. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
Th ALASSOPHRYNE '.
Thalassophryne, Giintli. Fish. iii. p. 174.
Head broad, depressed ; body subcylindrical anteriorly, and compressed posteriorly ;
skin naked. Canine teeth none. Operculum with a single spine. The spinous dorsal
formed by two spines of moderate length. The opercular and dorsal spines with a
canal conducting a poisonous fluid from a sac situated at their base. Gill-opening not
very naiTow, not extending to the isthmus.
Atlantic coasts of Tropical America.
92. Thalassophryxe MAa^LOSA. (Plate LXVIII. fig. 1.)
(Tiiiith. Fish. iii. p. 175.
D. 2|in. A. 18. V. ]/2.
Brown, marbled with darker ; some round black spots on the pectoral and the side
of the body.
The general habitus is that of a Batrachus. The head is somew-hat longer than
broad, its length being contained thrice and one-third in the total ; it is moderately
depressed. The snout is short, obtuse, with the cleft of the mouth ascending obliquely
upwards, and with the chin prominent. The maxillary extends to the vertical from the
posterior margin of the orbit. The teeth are obtusely conical, standing in single series,
except anteriorly in the lower jaw, where they form two series, and in the upper, where
they are cardiform, in a narrow band. The eyes are directed upwards and very small,
their width being one-half of that of the bony bridge between the orbits. Gill-covers
with a single spine ; it is long, slender, cylindrical, like one of the dorsal spines, and
has the operculum for its base. Gill-opening not very narrow; it extends from the
upper base of the pectoral obliquely downwards and forwards to the level of the inferior
base of the pectoral. The two dorsal spines are slender, pungent, about one-third of
the length of the head. Dorsal and anal fins terminate immediately before the root of
the caudal, the length of which is one-seventh of the total. Pectoral obliquely rounded,
extending to the origin of the anal ; ventral rather short, not quite one-half the length
of the head, extending to the base of the pectoral. Skin perfectly smooth, with some
very short tentacles at the lower jaw. Two short horizontal muciferous channels on
the cheek and the lateral line are very distinct ; they are not, as usually, composed of
a series of distant pores, but the pores are confluent, forming one continuous groove of
a white colour. Other muciferous channels, as for instance along the base of the anal,
are composed of separate indistinct pores. Colour brown, marbled with darker ;
pectoral fins and sides of the body with some round black spots ; chin and ventrals
brownish ; belly white.
A single specimen from Puerto Cabello is known.
' Greek denomination for Sea-toad.
DR. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CFJMTRAL AMERICA.
4:57
lines.
Total length 54
I-ength of the head 10
Width of the head 14
Depth of the head 10
Diameter of the eye 1
Length of the caudal fin iS
of the ventral fin 7
93. THALASSOrHRYNE RETICULATA. (Plate LXVIII. fig. 2.)
(iuuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, pp. 150, 155.
D. 2|24. A. 24. V. 1 '2. P. 16.
The length of the head is two-sevenths of the total length (without caudal). The
teeth on the palate are in a single series, very short, obtuse, incisor-like. Pectoral
very large, extending backwards to the sixth anal ray. Head, body, and fins brown,
with a network of yellowish lines ; vertical and pectoral fins with a white margin.
In other respects this species agrees with T. maculosa ; so that we may refer to the
description of tliat species given above.
Three specimens were found by Messrs. Dow and Salvin on the Pacific coast of
Panama; the largest is 13 inches long.
In this species I fii-st observed and closely examined the poison-organ with wliich
the fishes of this genus are provided. Its structure is as follows: —
1. Tlie opercular ])aTt- — The operculum is very narrow, vertically styliform, and ver\
mobile; it is armed behind with a spine, 8 lines long in a specimen of 10| inches, and
of the same form as the venom-fang of a snake ; it is, however, somewhat less curved,
being only slightly bent upwards ; it has a longish slit at the outer side of its extremity,
wliich leads into a canal perfectly closed, and running along the wliole length of its
Fig. 1. Hindt'i- hall' of the hoad, with the
venom-sac of the opercular apparatus in
situ.. * Place where the small openin^(i2. ]i. 14ii.
DE. GtJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMERICA. 447
from Bahia, which I have examined, the larger is Avithout any trace of such a spot ;
whilst the smaller one shows one, of about the size of the scale, on each side of the base
of the last dorsal ray.
141. COSSYPHVS PECTORALIS (GiU).
This species occurs also in the Atlantic, as I have lately received fine examples from
St. Helena. Cossyphus pulcheUm (Poey) is perhaps identical with it.
143. Plattglossus dispilus. (Plate LXXIV. fig. 1.)
Guntli. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 25.
D. ^. A. ~. L. lat. 28. L. transv. 2/9.
The height of the body equals the length of the head, and is contained four times
and one-fourth in the total. Caudal fin rounded, with the lobes very slightly produced.
Greenish olive, with a roundish black spot edged with silvery on the lateral line,
below the fifth and sixth dorsal spines ; the side of the head with five or six pearl-
coloured streaks, a part of which are continued on the body, forming a series of round
spots. An oblong variegated blotch behind the pectoral fin : it is composed of three
pearl-coloured stripes, enclosing two yellow bands, each of which has an undulated
purple edge. No spot in the axil of the pectoral. A short oblique yellowish streak
behind the base of each soft dorsal ray ; these streaks form a continuous band on the
spinous portion. Anal fin with two or three whitish lines ; caudal with several
irregular reddish longitudinal bands, which are convergent behind.
Young specimens are much more plain-coloured ; the black spot on the lateral line,
however, is very distinct, and there is another at the root of the caudal.
Capt. Dow's Panama collection contains a single young specimen ; but Mr. Salvin lias
brought others, one, apparently adult, being 5^ inches long.
144. PsEUDOJULis NOTOSPiLUS. (Plate LXVI. fig. 2.)
Guiith. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 26.
9 3 ''»
D. jj. A. Y2- L- lat. 25. L. transv. ^.
The height of the body is rather less than the length of the head, and contained four
times and a quarter in the total. Dorsal spines pungent ; caudal fin slightly rounded.
Brownish or yellowish olive ; young specimens with a silvery band along each side of
the trunk, above the pectoral fin. Back with four or five indistinct broad brown cross
bars ; a series of blotches on the dorsal fin corresponds to these cross bands, one of
them, on the first three dorsal rays, being the largest and most distinct ; it is of a deep
black colour, and of an ovate form. The corners of the caudal fin are white ; ventral
whitish, with a broad blackish outer margin.
One adult specimen, 4 inches long, and several young ones were collected by Capt.
Dow at Panama.
448 DE. GtJNTHER ON" THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
150. Gerres axillaris.
(iunth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 102.
D. 9 1 10. A. 3/8. L. lat. 34. L. transv. 5/10.
Allied to G. plumieri, but with considerably shorter fin-spines. The height of the
body is contained twice and a fourth in the total length (without caudal). Prseorbital
finely serrated. Snout as long as the eye ; the groove for the intermaxillary processes
is very broad, scaleless, extending backwards to the vertical from the centre of the eye.
Dorsal fin notched, the last spine being not much longer than the eye ; dorsal spines
strong, the second as long as the head without snout ; the second anal spine stronger,
but scarcely longer than the second of the dorsal fin. The pectoral extends to the
vertical from the third anal spine. Caudal deeply forked, with the lobes equal in
length to each other and to the pectoral. A blackish streak along each series of scales ;
the hinder side of the axil, and sometimes the anterior, blackish.
Three specimens, from 8 to 9 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam.
151. Gerrks brevim.\nus.
(iiinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 152.
D. 9 1 10. A. .3/8. L. lat. 39. L. transv. 6/11.
Pra?orbital minutely serrated. The height of the body is contained twice and two-
fifths in the total length (without caudal), the length of the head twice and a half.
Snout as long as the eye ; the groove for the intermaxillary processes is broad, scaleless,
not extending backwards to the vertical from the centre of the eye. Dorsal fin notched,
the last spine being longer than the eye ; dorsal spines strong, the length of the second
equals the distance between the end of the operculum and the anterior nostril ; the
second anal spine stronger, but much shorter, than the second of the dorsal fin. The
scaly sheath of the anal fin leaves the outer half of the last ray uncovered. The
pectoral extends scarcely to the vertical from the vent. Caudal scaly, deeply forked,
with the lobes equal in length, each being one-fourth of the total. Three or four
blackish streaks along the series of scales below the lateral line ; the spinous dorsal
fin black.
One specimen, 10 inches long, was found by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam.
155. Gerres dovu.
Dinpterits dowii, Gill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 162.
This species is characterized thus : —
D. ^. A. % L. lat. 47. L. transv. 510.
The greatest height is contained thrice and a half in the extreme length ; the head
four times and a quarter ; the diameter of the eye twice and three-fourths in the head ;
the snout equals four-fifths of the eye. The profile is rectilinear, and the interorbital
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 449
space nearly flat, but convex above tlie eyes, and nearly as wide as tlie eye. The
maxillary groove is linear, and extends backwards to a vertical midway between the
front of the orbit and pupil, while the scales on each side extend to the vertical from
the front of the orbits. The exposed surface of tlie supermaxillary bones is at first
triangular, and thence oblong, the whole twice and a half as long as wide. The height
of the constricted portion of the caudal peduncle equals two-thirds of its length and the
diameter of the eye. The lateral line is scarcely bent behind. The second and third
dorsal spines are slender, and nearly ecjual half the height of the body beneath ; the
last is little more than half as long as the first branclied ray. The third anal spine is
as long as the snout, and longer and more slender than the second. The colour is
silvery ; the spinous dorsal blackish at margin ; the axilla of pectoral blackish.
Discovered by Capt. Dow on the Pacific coast of Central America.
156. Ac.\RA C^RULEOPUNCT.\TA.
Kiicr & Stcindachner, Sitzgsber. bayer. Akacl. 18G3, p. 222; and Ahhandl. bayer. Akad. AViss. x.
p. 16, tab. 2. fig. 3.
D. j^. A. |. L. lat. 27. L. transv. 2^9.
Three series of scales on the cheek. Prseorbital scarcely wider than the orbit. The
greatest breadth of the head is two-thirds of its length. Cleft of the mouth oblique.
Body with four or five indistinct cross bands. A large black blotch on the middle of
the sides, and traces of a second on the root of the caudal. Each scale on the side of
the head and chest with a bluish spot.
Two specimens, 5 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin in tlie Rio Cliagres.
iJescription. — The lieight of the body is contained twice and a half in the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head rather more than thrice. Nape curved, the
profile of the snout straight. Width of the interorbital space two-fifths of the length
of the head, and more than that of the snout. Snout broad, moderately elevated, the
width of the prteorbital being scarcely more than the diameter of the eye. Cleft of the
mouth slightly oblique, not reaching the vertical from the orbit. The fold of the lower
lip is interrupted in the middle. Lower limb of pra>operculum more than half the
length of the jjosterior limb. There are only eight series of scales between the throat
and the root of the ventral. Dorsal spines of moderate strength, graduallv increasing
in length posteriorly ; the length of the ninth is more than one-third of that of tlu?
head. The middle of the soft dorsal and anal produced, and extending beyond tlie
middle of the caudal, which is rounded. Pectoral as long as the head, reaching only
to the origin of the anal. Ventral filament rather long. Colours as described above.
157. Heros PARMA (Gthr.).
This species varies considerably in coloration and in form of the body. The cross
bands may be entirely absent, and n^placed by a large diffuse black blotch on the end
VOL. VI. — PART VII. * ;; Q
450 DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
of the tail ; the lieight of the body is contained from once and three-fifths to twice and
one-fifth in the total length. Guatemalan specimens have generally the black caudal
blotch, but they vary much in the depth of the body. The numbers of the iin-rays
(D. p-y^j. A. fj^) appear to be very constant.
158. Herds margaritifer. (Plate LXXI. fig. 2.)
(Jiinth. Fish. iv. p. 287.
D. [[. A. l- L. lat. 31. L. transv. 5/13.
The fold of the lower lip is slightly interrupted in the middle; five or six series of
scales on the cheek. The height of the body is rather less than one-half of the total
length (without caudal). Brownish olive, with seven black cross bands, each band with
pearl-coloured spots.
One specimen, 6| inches long, was found by Mr. Salvin at Lake Peten.
159. Herds melaxopdgdn.
Steindachnerj Denkschr. Ak. Wiss. Wien, xxiii. p. 72, Taf. 1. fig. 3.
D. ^^. A. y. L. lat. 30. L. transv. 6^/13.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in the middle ; five or six series of scales on
the cheek. The height of the body is four-ninths of the total length (without caudal).
Body with five irregular blackish cross bands interrupted in the middle, so as to repre-
sent two series of irregular blotches ; a large blackish blotch on the root of the caudal
fin. Small pearl-coloured spots surround the lower blotches, and are scattered over the
caudal blotch.
Knovni from a specimen 4^ inches long.
This fish may represent merely the younger state of H. margaritifer ; it is stated to
be from Central America. It formed part of a collection made by Friedrichsthal, who,
to judge from other specimens collected by him, appears to have visited Lake Peten,
which is inhabited by //. margaritifer.
160. Herds melanurus. (Plate LXXII. fig. 3.)
(iunth. Fish. iv. p. 288.
D. ^. A. g. L. lat. 33. L. transv. 5/13.
The fold of the lower lip is subinterrupted in the middle ' ; five series of scales on the
cheek. The height of the body is contained twice and a third or twice and a half in the
total length (without caudal). A deep-black band along the middle of the tail ; tin-
lower parts black in adult specimens.
Several examples, from 3 to 10 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin at Lake
I'eten.
' The fold is distinctly interru])ted in S])Ocimens from 6 to 10 inches long, whilst it appears to bo slightly
continuons in young individuals of .'5 to 4 inches long.
DR. GUNTHEK OX THE FISHES OF CFINTRAL AMERICA. 451
1 (J 1 . II EROS MACRACAXTH US.
CUuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 153.
D. jo ttS- a. f^jij. I J. lat. 31. L. transv. ^.
The lower lip is interrupted in the middle. The height of the body is two-thirds of
the total length (without caudal) in adult specimens, but only one-half in immature ;
the length of the head is one-third of the total. Upper profile of the liead very steep,
not concave. Scales on the cheek in five series. The first dorsal spine is a little before
the vertical from the upper end of the gill-opening. Dorsal and anal spines strong, the
tenth of the dorsal fin being two-fifths of the length of the head. Pectoral as long as
the head. Dark greenish, many scales with a pearl-coloured spot in the upper or lower
angle. Vertical and ventral fins black.
About a dozen specimens, from 3 to 9 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin at
Chiapam and Huamuchal.
Description. — The height of the body is two-thirds of the total length (without
caudal), and nearly one-half of the entire length of the fish. The length of the liead
is one-third, or slightly more than one-third of the total (without caudal). Head
rather higher than long, the nape convex, but the upper profile showing a slight
concavity above the snout. The snout is of rather considerable extent, the height of
the prseorbital being one-lialf more than the width of the orbit. The cleft of the
mouth is slightly oblique; the prseorbital almost covering the posterior end of the
maxillary, which does not attain the line of the front margin of the eye. Jaws rather
protractile, armed with a broad band of villiform teeth, those of the outer series being
enlarged. Interorbital space convex, nearly twice the width of the orbit. Eye some-
what nearer to the end of the operculum than to that of the snout. Base of soft
dorsal and anal with a few small scales. Dorsal spines strong ; the twelfth is a little
less than one-half of the length of the head in adult specimens ; the fifteenth is the
longest, and more than half the length of the head. Soft dorsal and anal much
elevated ; the middle rays produced ; caudal rounded. Pectoral rounded, about as
long as the head. Fii'st ventral ray slightly prolonged. The free portion of the tail
is nearly twice as deep as long. Greenish or brownish olive ; fins black ; a more Ar
less distinct black spot on the root of the caudal fin, above the lateral line. Immature
specimens with six very indistinct dark cross bands, the third of which has a blackish
blotch below the lateral line; an indistinct blackish spot at tlie root of the caudal fin.
162. IIeros sriLURis. (Plate LXXIII. fig. 1.)
Giinth. Fish. iv. p. 289.
D. IJ. A. ^. L. lat. 29. L. transv. i|.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in tlie middle ; four series of scales on the
cheek. The height of the body is one-half of the total length (without caudal), the
3q2
452 DE. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMERICA.
length of the head nearly one-third. Head a little higher than long ; snout of
moderate extent, its length being two-fifths of that of the head. The diameter of the
eye is two-sevenths of the length of the head, two-thirds of that of the snout, and less
than the widtli of the interorbital space, which is convex ; the eye is situated below
the upper profile, a little nearer to the extremity of the operculum than to that of the
snout. Prseorbital as wide as the orbit. Dorsal spines of moderate length and strength,
the length of the twelfth being contained twice and a third in that of the head. The
distance between dorsal and caudal is less than the depth of the tail. Greenish olive,
with nine dark vertical bands ; a large, roundish black spot on the middle of the root
of the caudal ; no spot on the temple ; caudal and the posterior part of the dorsal and
anal with whitish spots.
Three examples were collected by Messrs. Salvin and Godman at Yzabal and in the
Rio Motagua. I.eno-th ?>^ inches.
163. Heros xiGROFASciATUS. (Plate LXXIV. fig. o.)
D. ^. A. ^'. L. lat. 29. L. transv. 4/11.
The lower lip is interrupted in the middle. Scales on the cheek in four or five series.
Dark blackish brown, with nine deep-black cross bands.
Numerous examples, from "2 to 3^ inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin in the
Lakes of Amatitlan and Atitlan.
Description. — The heiglit of the body is contained twice and one-sixth in the total
length (without caudal), the length of the head thrice ; the free portion of the tail is
considerably deeper than long. Head as high as long, with the upper profile convex
to the snout, where it is straight. Snout of moderate extent, the width of the praj-
orbital being equal to that of the orbit. The eye is somewhat nearer to the end of the
snout than to that of the operculum ; its diameter is considerably less than the width
of the interorbital space, and one-fourth of the length of the head. Jaws equal in
length. The soft dorsal and anal fins have scarcely any scales on their base, and are
more or less produced in the middle, the longest rays reaching to the middle of the
caudal. The dorsal fin commences in the vertical from the humerus ; its spines are of
moderate strength, rather short, the length of the twelfth being somewhat less than
one-third of that of the head. Anal spines as long as, but rather stronger than those
of the dorsal fin. Caudal rounded, two-ninths of the total length. Pectoral as long
as the head, without snout, extending to the second or third anal spine. Ventral but
slightly produced.
This species is very dark-coloured. The ground-colour is a dark blackish purplish
brown.. An arched black band runs from the nape of the neck round the opercular
margin to the interoperculum. A second is nearly concentric with the first, running
from the nape to behind the pectoral and ventral. The third is short, like a spot.
DR. GUNTHER ()X THE FISHT-S OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 453
between the anterior dorsal spines and the lateral line. The following are subvertical.
slightly inclined backwards, and broader than the interspaces between them. The
penultimate connects the ends of ihe dorsal and anal fins ; the last across the root of
the caudal. Fins black.
This species appears to remain within small dimensions.
164. Herds multispixosus. (Plate LXXIV. fig. 2.)
D. \^. A. n. L. lat. 29. L. transv. 4/12.
The lower lip is interrupted in the middle. Three series of scales on the cheek. A
blackish band, interrupted on the tail, runs from the eye to the caudal ; a round black
spot in the middle of the length of the band.
A single specimen, 3^ inches long, was obtained by Capt. Dow in the Lake of
Managua.
Description. — The height of the body is contained twice and one-seventh in the total
length (without caudal), the length of the head thrice. The free portion of the tail is
twice as deep as long. Head as deep as long, with the upper profile nearly straight.
Snout rather short ; the width of the prajorbital being considerably less than that of tlu'
orbit. The eye is situated immediately below the upper profile, nearer to the end of
the snout than to that of the operculum ; its diameter is a little less than one-third of
the length of the head, and much less than the width of the interorbital space, which
is flat. Mouth with the jaws equal in length, small, the maxillary not nearly reaching
the vertical from the orbit. Suboperculum with two series of scales. The soft dorsal
and anal fins are scaly at the base, they are scarcely prolonged, and not extending to
the middle of the caudal. The dorsal fin commences above the humerus ; its spines are
of moderate strength, and rather long, the length of the eighth to the last spine being
not much less than onc-lialf of that of the head. Anal spines stronger, and even a
little longer than those of the dorsal. Caudal fin rounded, two-ninths of the total
length. Pectoral shorter than the head, extending to the fifth anal spine. The (niter
ventral ray produced into a short filament. Brownish olive, each scale somewhat
darker at the base. A blackish band, as broad as a scale, runs from the eye to a round
black spot situated before and below the termination of the upper part of the lateral
line ; thence it is continued to the root of the caudal as a series of four or five irregular
spots. Fins blackish, apparently immaculate.
165. Herds loxgimanus. (Plate LXXIl. fig. 2.)
D. jj. A. g. L. lat. 28. L. transv. 4^. 12.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in the middle. Three or four series of scales
on the cheek. Pectoral very long, extending nearly to the end of the anal. Greenish
454 DK. GUMHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
olive, with an indistinct blackish band running from the orbit to a large black spot on
the middle of the side. Dorsal fin with numerous round whitish spots.
One specimen, 5|^ inches long, was found by Capt. Dow in the Lake of Nicaragua.
iJescrqition. — The height of the body is contained twice and one-sixth in the total
length (without caudal), the length of the head twice and three-fifths. Upper profile
of head straight. Head rather longer than high; cleft of the mouth slightly oblicjue,
^\ith the lower jaw rather prominent. Jaws moderately protractile ; the maxillary does
not extend to the vertical from the front margin of the eye. Prseorbital as wide as the
diameter of the eye, which is somewhat less than the width of the interorbital space,
and more than one-fourth of the length of the head. The eye is situated immediately
beneath the upper profile of the head, and a little nearer to the end of the operculum
than to that of the snout. Scales on the cheek in three or four series ; scales on the
opercles large. The dorsal commences vertically above the scapula ; the spinous portion
has its upper margin convex ; the spines are slender and long, the fifth and sixtli being
the longest, one-half of the length of the head. The soft dorsal and anal have the middle
rays somewhat longer than the others, and reaching to about the middle of the caudal ;
the soft anal is slightly scaly at the base, the soft dorsal scarcely or not at all scaly.
Anal spines shorter but somewhat stronger than those of the dorsal. Caudal slightly
(Mnarginate. Pectoral very long, slightly longer than the head, and extending nearly to
the end of the anal. Ventral with the outer ray produced into a filament. The distance
between the vent and the root of the ventrals is equal to one-third of tlie length of the
head. Teeth in the jaws small, cardiform, forming a band, those of the outer series
being somewhat larger than the others.
This species is similar to the Mexican //. helleri, but has a considerably longer
pectoral fin, and also less anal rays.
166. Herds urophtiialmus. (Plate LXXII. fig. 1.)
(iuuth. Fish. IV. p. 291.
D. }-;. A. I. L. lat. 28. L. transv. 512.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle. Scales on the cheek in six
scries. The height of the body is contained twice and a half or twice and a quarter in
the total length (without caudal), the length of the head nearly three times. Head as
high as long ; snout rather elevated, with the cleft of the mouth oblique and with the
lower jaw prominent. Prseorbital as wide as the oi'bit; interorbital space flat, wider
than the orbit. The eye is nearer to the extremity of the snout than to that of the
operculum. Dorsal spines of moderate length and strength, the length of the twelfth
being two-fifths of that of the head. The free portion of the tail is higher than long.
Anal spines strong and long. The distance between the vent and the root of the ventral
is three-fifths of the length of the head. Brownish- or greenish-olive, with seven blackish
cross bands, as broad as the interspaces between : the first descending obliquely back-
DR. GUXTHER OX THE FLSHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 455
wards across the nape ; the second, third, and fourth below the dorsal spines ; the
seventh across the free portion of the tail. A large, black, white-edged ocellus on th«'
root of the caudal. Fins blackish ; pectoral yellowish towards the base.
Mr. Salvin obtained three examples, 7 inches long, at Lake Peten.
167. Herds aureus. (Plate LXXIII. tig. 2.)
(miitli. Fish. iv. p. SO.^.
D. rpYo- A- 8- ^^- ^^*- '^^- ^'- tiansv. (> lo.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle. Scales on the cheek in tive
series. Base of the dorsal scaleless. The height of the body is contained twice and a
third in the total length (without caudal), the length of the head three times. Head
as high as long ; snout somewhat elevated, with the cleft of the mouth oblique and
with the jaws equal anteriorly ; prseorbital as wide as the orbit. The eye is a little
nearer to the extremity of the operculum than to that of the snout. Dorsal spines
rather slender, the length of the twelfth being a little less than one-half of that of the
head. The distance between the dorsal and caudal is somewhat less than the greatest
depth of the free portion of the tail. Caudal slightly emarginate. The distance
between the vent and the root of the ventral is one-third of the length of the head.
Yellowish-olive, with six dark cross bands, extending downwards to a yellow longi-
tudinal band running from above the pectoral to the lower half of the base of the
caudal. The third cross band terminates in a large black lateral* spot ; sides of the
head with several bluish dots, and with a blackish spot on tlie operculum and subojxn-
culura, darkest on the latter bone. Fins light-coloured, immaculate.
Two specimens, 4 and 5 inches long, were collected by Messrs. Salvin and Godman
at Yzabal and in the Rio Motagua.
168. Herds affims. (Plate LXXIX. tig. 1.)
(Junth. Fish. iv. p. 292.
D. ^. A. ^. L. lat. 29. L. transv. 5 12.
The fold of the lower lijj is continuous in the middle. Scales on the cheek in four
series. The height of the body is contained twice and two-fifths in the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head twice and three-fourths. Head as high as
long; snout compressed, elevated, wath the cleft of the moutli oblique and A^ith tin-
lower jaw prominent. Prseorbital wider than the orbit (in the larger individuals) ; the
eye is considerably nearer to the extremity of the operculum than to that of tlie snout.
Dorsal and anal fins entirely scaleless; dorsal spines rather strong and long, the lengtli
of the twelfth being two-fifths of that of the head. Anal spines very strong. The free
portion of the tail is a little higher than long. Caudal slightly emarginate, two-ninths
of the total length. The distance between the vent and the root of the ventral is one-
456 DR. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CEXTEAL AMERICA.
third of the length of the liead. Olive, with five or six dark cross bands, the middle one
of which has a deep-black spot wliere it passes the Literal line ; a more or less distinct
black spot on the suboperculum ; sides of the head and vertical fins w^ith bluish dark-
edged ocelli.
This species is very closely allied to H. aureus, but may be distinguished from it by
larger scales, by a more backward position of the eyes, by stronger spines, &c.
Four examples, from 3^ to b\ inches long, were obtained by Mr. Salvin at Lake Peteu.
169. Herds labiatus.
(liiuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 27, pi. 4- fig. 1.
D. 5|. A. -g-^ L. lat. 32. L. transv. 6/13.
The anterior portions of the upper and lower lips are much enlarged, each forming
a moveable subtriangular flap (probably in old males only). The height of the body is
somewhat more than the length of the head, and two-fifths of the total (without caudal) ;
the eye occupies the middle of the length of the head. Scales on the cheek in four
series. Base of the dorsal fin almost scaleless. The lenfjth of the eighth dorsal sjmie is
less than one-third of that of the head. The depth of the free portion of the tail is
ficarceli/ more than its length. Uniform red, or red irregularly marbled with black, or
nearly entirely black.
Two specimens, 6^^ and 7 inches long, were collected by Capt. Dow in the Lake of
Managua ; three others were lately sent by the same gentleman from the Lake of
Nicaragua. We do not yet know the female sex and the young state of this species.
Descripttion. — Head rather longer than high ; snout somewhat elevated ; cleft of the
mouth slightly oblique, with the lower jaw a little prominent. Teeth in narrow bands,
those of the outer series enlarged, with brown tips. The maxillary does not nearly
attain the vertical from the front of the eye. Prfeorbital as wide as the orbit, the
diameter of which is less than the extent of the snout, and one-fourth of the length of
the head. Interorbital space somewhat convex, wider than the orbit. The eye is
situated not quite immediately beneatli the upper profile of the head, and midway
between the end of the snout and that of the operculum. Opercles scaly, the scales
being larger than those on the clieek ; suboperculum with two series of scales. Soft
portions of dorsal and anal fins with minute scales between the rays at their base.
Dorsal spines of moderate length and strength, the length of the eighth dorsal spine
being less than one-third of tlie length of the head. Points of the produced middle
rays of the soft dorsal and anal reaching to the middle of the caudal fin. Caudal
rounded, its length being contained rather more than five times in the total. Anal
spines of nearly the same length and strength as those of the dorsal fin. Pectoral
rounded, reaching to the fourth or fifth spine of the anal ; ventral filament produced.
DR. GUNTHEE OiV THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 457
The distance between the vent and the root of the ventral is less than one-half of the
length of the head.
170. Herds ervthr^us. (Plate LXXV. fig. 2.)
D. 1^. A. I. L. lat. 31. L. transv. 6|/14.
Lips thick, with broad free margin in their entire circumference. The height of the
body is contained twice and a third in the total length (without caudal), the length of
the head twice and two-thirds; the eyes occupy the middle of the length of the head.
Scales on the cheek in four or five series. Base of the soft dorsal fin with very small
scales. The length of the eighth dorsal spine is less than one-third of that of the head.
The depth of the free portion of the tail is conspicuously more than its lenqth. Of a
deep orange-colour ; many of the scales of the tail with a blackish spot on the base.
One specimen, 7 inches long, was collected by Capt. Dow in the Lake of Managua.
I was for some time inclined to regard this fish as a variety of sex or age of 11.
lahiatus. This, however, is not the case, all the specimens being males, and the speci-
men of H. erythrmis larger than one of the two of //. lahiatus. Besides, it appears to
be sufiiciently distinguished by its much shorter and deeper tail.
Description. — Head as high as long ; snout rather elevated, wdth the cleft of the mouth
slightly oblique, and the lower jaw scarcely prominent. Teeth in narrow bands, those
of the outer series enlarged, with brown tips. The maxillary does not reach the
vertical from the front margin of the eye ; pra^orbital wider than the orbit. The
diameter of the eye is contained nearly five times in the length of the head. Inter-
orbital space slightly convex, much wider than the orbit. Eye situated near the upper
profile of the head, and equidistant from the end of the snout and that of the oper-
culum. Opercles scaly, the scales being larger than those on the cheek ; suboperculum
with two series of scales. The soft dorsal and anal fins with a few minute scales
running up between the bases of the rays ; dorsal spines of moderate strength. Soft
dorsal and anal slightly produced, not reaching to the middle of the caudal. Caudal
rounded, one-fifth of the total length. Anal spines stronger but not longer tlian those
of the dorsal fin. Pectoral rounded, extending to the fourth anal spine, somewhat
shorter than the head. The outer ventral ray produced ; the distance between the
ventral and the vent is one-half of the length of the head.
171. Herds ldbdciiilus. (Plate LXXV. fig. 1.)
D. 11^,. A. g^j. L. lat. 32. L. transv. 6/14.
Old males with the anterior portions of the upper and lower lips much enlarged,
each forming a moveable subtriangular flap ; in young males the lips are simple, the
fold of the lower being continuous. The height of the body is contained twice and a
third in the total length (without caudal), the length of the head twice and three-
VOL. VI. PART vii. 3 R
458 DE. GtJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CEXTEAL AMEEICA.
fourths. The eye occupies the middle or nearly the middle of the length of the head.
Scales on the cheek in four or five series. Base of the dorsal fin scaly. The lenqfh of
the eighth dorsal spine is more than one-third of that of the head. The depth of the free
portion of the tail is scarcely more than its length. Greenish or yellowish, with about
six indistinct dark cross bands ; that below the fourteenth dorsal spine with a large
black blotch below the lateral line ; sometimes a black spot on the upper half of the
base of the caudal.
Two male specimens were collected by Capt. Dow in the Lake of Managua; the
larger, 8 inches long, has the labial lobes and black caudal spot ; the smaller is 7 inches
long, and, without doubt, of the same species. The female sex is unknown.
Description. — Head as high as long ; snout rather elevated, with the cleft of the
mouth oblique, and the lower jaw rather prominent. Upper profile very concave.
Teeth in narrow bands, those of the outer series enlarged, with brown tips. The
maxillary does not reach nearly to the vertical from tlie front of the orbit ; preeorbital
as wide as the orbit, being contained very slightly more than four times in the length
of the head. Interorbital space flat, much wider than the orbit. The eye is situated
immediately below the upper profile, slightly nearer to the extremity of the snout than
to that of the operculum. Opercles scaly, the scales being larger than those on the
cheeks ; suboperculum with one series of scales. The soft portions of the anal and
dorsal fins with a series of small scales between the rays at their base. Dorsal spines
of moderate strength, the length of the eighth to twelfth being more than one-third of
that of the head. Points of the soft anal and dorsal reaching to the middle of the
caudal. The free portion of the tail is scarcely higher than long. Caudal rounded, its
length being one-fifth of the total. Anal spines strong and long. Pectoral rounded,
reaching to the fourth anal spine ; outer ventral ray produced. The distance between
the vent and the root of the ventral is three-sevenths of the length of the head.
Coloration as described above.
172. Herds citrinellus. (Plate LXXI. fig. 1.)
Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 153.
D. ^^. A. g^. L. lat. 30. L. transv. 6/13.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle. The height of the body is
contained twice and a fifth in the total length (without caudal), the length of the head
twice and seven-eighths ; the free portion of the tail is conspicuously deeper than long ;
nape of the neck very convex ; interorbital space broad, its width being two-fifths of the
length of the head. Snout not obtuse ; scales on the cheek in four series. The first
dorsal spine is inserted above the upper end of the gill-openmg. Dorsal and anal
spines slender, the eighth or tenth of the dorsal fin being two-fifths of the length of
the head. Pectoral nearly as long as the head. Lemon-coloured, either nearly uni-
DR. GUXTHER OX THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AJIEEICA. 459
form or with the back Wack, which colour sometimes forms irregular blotches on the
vertical fins.
Three specimens, two males and one female, from 7 to 8 inches long, were collected
by Capt. Dow in the Lake of Nicaragua.
Description. — Head as high as long; snout rather elevated, the cleft of the mouth
almost horizontal, the lower jaw scarcely prominent. Teeth in narrow bands, those of
the outer series enlarged, with brown tips. The maxillary does not reach the vertical
from the front margin of the eye. Prajorbital wider than the orbit. The eye is
situated close to the upper profile, and a little nearer to the end of the snout than to
the opercular margin; its diameter is one-fourth of the length of the head. Inter-
orbital space flattish, twice the width of the orbit. Opercles scaly, the scales being
larger than those on the cheeks ; suboperculum with two series of scales. Soft anal
and dorsal fins slightly scaly at the base. The points of the soft dorsal and anal con-
siderably produced, and extending beyond the middle of the caudal fin, sometimes to
its extremity. Caudal rounded, its length being contained four times and a half in the
total. Pectoral long and rounded, extending to the fifth anal spine. Outer ventral
ray produced. The distance between the vent and the root of the ventral is nearly one-
third of the length of the head.
173. Herds altifrons.
Kner & Steindachner, Sitzgsber. bayer. Akad. 18G3, p. 223; and Abhaudl. bayer. Akad. x. p. 11,
Taf. 2. fig. 1.
^- TV ^- 8=9-
The lower lip is dilated into a lobe on each side, which is broadest behind. Scales
on the cheek in four or five series. The height of the body is contained twice and two-
fifths in the total length (without caudal), the length of the head twice and four-fifths.
Snout rather high, the width of the pra;orbital being more than that of the orbit. Jaws
equal in length. Eye considerably nearer to the end of the operculum than to that of
the snout. Dorsal spines of moderate length and strength. Body with four or five dark
vertical bands', each band with a darker blotch. Scattered pearl-coloured dots all over
the body ; a dark spot on the middle of the root of the caudal fin.
Southern (Pacific) rivers of the district Chiriqui (Western Veragua).
174. Herds friedrkiistiialii.
Heckel, Fhissfische Brasil. p. 381. Giinth. Fish. iv. p. 294.
D. fj^. A. g. L. lat. 31. L. transv. 4/12.
The fold of the lower lip continuous in the middle. Scales on the check in seven
series. Antero-inferior margin of praeorbital concave, the greatest width of this bone
' The authors describe them as " tcfnice," instead of "fasciae."
3 K 2
460 DE. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AJMEEICA.
being only two-thmls of that of the orbit. The length of the twelfth dorsal spine is
two-sevenths of that of the head. Yellowish-olive, with six or seven blackish cross
bands ; a black band from the eye to the upper part of the root of the caudal, inter-
rupted by the interspaces between the cross bands ; the origin and end of this band are
edged with yellow ; suboperculum with a black ocellus ; an oblique black streak from
the eye towards the ocellus.
Lake Peten. Several examples, 5 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin.
175. Herds salvini. (Plate LXXIII. fig. 3.)
Heros salvini, Giinth. FisL. iv. p. 294.
triagramma, Steiudaclmer, Denkschr. Akad. Wiss. Wien, xxiii. p. 70, tab. 3. fig. 2.
D. }-J. A. ^. L. lat. 29. L. transv. 5/10.
Fold of the lower lip continuous in the middle ; scales of the cheek in five series.
Prseorbital a little narrower than the orbit, with the antero-inferior margin concave.
Base of the soft dorsal scaly. The height of the body is contamed twice and a fourth
in the total length (without caudal), and the length of the head twice and three-foui'ths.
Head somewhat longer than high ; snout of moderate extent, longer than the eye,
pointed, with the cleft of the mouth very oblique, and with the lower jaw projecting ;
the maxillary does not quite extend to the vertical from the anterior margin of the
orbit. The eye is situated immediately below the upper profile, in the middle of the
length of the head. Suboperculum of moderate width, with one series of scales. The
length of the twelfth dorsal spine is two-fifths of that of the head in specimens from
Lake Peten, and one-third in those from Santa Isabel. The distance between dorsal and
caudal is considerably less than the depth of the free portion of the tail. The distance
between the vent and the root of the ventrals is two-fifths of the length of the head.
Dark greenish olive, with a black band, edged with yellow, runnmg from the snout,
through the eye, to the root of the caudal ; it is most distinct on the head, but inter-
rupted on the tail by lighter interspaces ; it passes a black lateral spot, and, in young
specimens, terminates in another black spot. An irregular black band along the back,
below the base of the dorsal fin. vSometimes three bands across the upper surface of
the head. A blue horizontal line below the orbit ; a more or less distinct black
ocellus on the suboperculum is sometimes entirely absent. Fins blackish, immacu-
late, or with faint dots only in small number. The sides below the black band are
sanguineous in mature specimens.
The largest specimen is 4^ inches long.
This species occurs in Lake Peten as well as in the Rio Santa Isabel ; specimens from
the former locality are distinguished by somewhat longer dorsal spines. H. triagramma
appears to have been founded on a Lake-Peten example.
DR. G-tiNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 461
176. Heros trimaculatus. (Plate LXXVI.)
D. Yi- A. -cjr. L. lat. 31. L. transv. 5 14.
Allied to //. salvini. Fold of" the lower lip continuous in the middle; scales of the
cheek in five scries. Lower jaw prominent. Prseorbital as wide as the orbit, with the
antero-inferior margin concave. The length of the twelfth dorsal spine is rather less
than one-third of that of the head. Dark greenish olive, with three black spots ; the
first above the origin of the lateral line, the second in the middle of the side, and the
third above the end of the lateral line. Fins black.
Three adult examples, from 8 to 11 inches long, and one of 2| inches, were collected
by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam and Huamuchal.
Description. — The height of the body is contained twice in the total length (without
caudal), the length of the head twice and two-thirds. Head nearly as high as long ;
snout rather pointed, much longer than the eye, with the cleft of the mouth very
oblique, and the lower jaw prominent; the maxillary extends nearly to the vertical
from the front margin of the orbit. Prajorbital as wide as the orbit, with the antero-
inferior margin concave. The width of the orbit is one-fifth of the length of the head,
but only two-thirds of that of the interorbital space. The eye is situated immediately
below the concavity of the upper profile of the head, and is very slightly nearer to the
tip of the snout than to the opercular margin. Opercles scaly ; suboperculum Avith two
series of scales. The vertical fins are scaly at the base. Dorsal spines of moderate
strength and length, the twelfth being rather less than one-third of the length of the
head. The pomts of the soft dorsal and anal extend beyond the middle of the caudal.
Caudal much rounded. The distance between the caudal and the dorsal is considerably
less than the depth of the free portion of the tail. Pectoral much shorter than the
head, extending only to the second anal spine ; ventrals with the outer ray produced.
The distance between the vent and the root of the ventrals is nearly half the length of
the head. The coloration of the young example is exactly the same as that of the adult.
177. Herds dovii. (Plate LXXIII. fig. 4.)
Giiuth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 154.
D. fjTjg. A. cj:yo- -'-'• ^^^- ^^- ^-'- transv. ■^.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle. The height of the body is
contained thrice in the total length (without caudal) ; the length of the head twice and
three-fifths. Snout pomted, with the lower jaw very prominent. Praeorbital with the
antero-inferior margin but slightly concave, its greatest width being three-fourths of
that of the orbit. Both jaws with a pair of fangs, those of the upper pair being close
together in the middle of the jaw, whilst the lower are separate. Scales on the cheek
small, rather irregularly arranged, in about eight series. The first dorsal spine is
inserted behind the vertical from the upper end of the gill-opening. Dorsal and anal
4(i2 DR. GUXTIIER OX THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AjMERICA.
si)iucs slender, the length of the twelfth of the dorsal fin bemg one-fourth of that of the
head. Pectoral three-fifths as long as the head. Brown, irregularly marbled with
darker; fins black; an indistinct black band along the operculum and the side of the
trunk ; an oblique blackish band descends from the eye towards the root of the pectoral ;
a black spot behind the angle of the mouth.
This species is allied to H. friednchsthalii, H. salvini. Sec. Two specimens, 6 inches
long, were collected by Capt. Dow in the Lake of Nicaragua.
Desoiption. — Head much longer than high. Snout rather elongate, much longer than
the eye, pointed, with the cleft of the mouth oblique, and the lower jaw very prominent.
The maxillary reaches the vertical from the anterior margin of the orbit. The width of
the orbit is contained four times and a half in the length of the head, and equal to that
of the interorbital space. The eye is situated immediately below the upper profile, but
is considerably nearer to the end of the snout than to that of the operculum. Opercles
scaly, the scales on the operculum larger than those on the cheek ; suboperculum with
two sex'ies of scales. The soft portions of the dorsal and anal fins are scaly at the base,
and do not reach much beyond the origin of the caudal. Caudal rounded. The
pectoral is about two-thirds as long as the head, and scarcely reaches the vertical from
the origin of the anal. Ventral pointed, slightly produced, reaching only to the vent.
The distance between the vent and the root of the ventral is two-fifths of the length of
the head.
178. Heros motaguexsis. (Plate LXXVII. fig. 2.)
D. j^. A. g^,. L. lat. 32. L. transv. 5/13.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle. Snout pointed, with the lower
jaw prominent. Pncorbital with the antero-inferior margin but slightly concave, its
greatest width being equal to that of the orbit. Dentition as in //. domi. Scales on
the cheek small, in eight series. The first dorsal spine is inserted behind the vertical
from the upper end of the gill-opening. Dorsal and anal spines short, the length of
the twelfth of the dorsal fin being two-ninths of that of the head. Brownish, a black
interrupted band runs from the eye to a spot on the root of the caudal, this spot being
situated above the lateral line. An oblique short black streak runs from the lower
posterior angle of the orbit towards a spot situated on the suture between operculum
and suboperculum, close to the interoperculum, the band being not continuous with the
spot. Back with traces of iiTegular cross bands, more distinct in young than in old
individuals. Vertical fins with numerous brown dots.
Five examples, from 4 to 10 inches long, were obtained by Mr. Godman from the Rio
Motagua. This species is closely allied to H. friedrichsthalii.
Description of an example 10 inches Jong. — The height of the body is nearly equal to
the length of the head, and is contained thrice in the total length (without caudal) ; the
lengtli of tlie head is contaii\ed twice and five-sixths in the same. Head longer than
DE. GtJNTHEE OX THE FISHES OF CEXTEAL AMERICA. 4(l3
high ; snout of moderate extent, much hmger than the eye, pointed, with the cleft of
the mouth very oblique, and the lower jaw very prominent. The maxillary reaches
nearly to the vertical from the anterior margin of the orbit. The width of the orbit is
not quite one-fifth of the length of the head, and less than the width of the interorbital
space. The eye is situated near the upper profile of the head, nearer to the end of the
snout than to that of the operculum. Opercles scaly; suboperculum with two series of
scales. Vertical fins scaly at the base, tlieir points do not reach the middle of tlie
caudal. Caudal rounded. The distance between the dorsal and caudal is somewliat
less than the depth of the free portion of the tail. Pectoral sliort, less than two-thirds
of the length of the head, and scarcely reaching to the vent ; ventral short, pointed, with
the outer ray produced. The distance between the vent and the root of the ventral is
more than half the length of the head.
179. Heros managuensis. (Plate LXXVII. fig. .3.)
D. \l. A. l- L. lat. 32. L. transv. 4^ 13.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle. Snout somewhat pointed, with
lower jaw prominent. Praorhital with the antero-inferior margin concave, nmroiv, its
(greatest loidth being scarcel// more than onc-hnlf of that of the orbit. Dentition as in
H. dovii. Scales on the cheek small, rather irregularly arranged, in eight or nine
series. The first dorsal spine is inserted behind the vertical from the upper end of the
gill-opening. Dorsal and anal spines of moderate length and strength, the length of the
twelfth of the dorsal fin being contained thrice and two-thirds in that of the head.
Greenish brown, shining golden, and irregularly marbled with dark brown. A seri(>s
of quadrangular black spots (probably a band in young examples) runs from the eye to
a black spot on the root of the caudal, this spot being situated above the lateral line ;
a brown band descends obliquely from the lower posterior angle of the orbit to the
lower posterior angle of the operculum. Vertical fins with black spots, each spot
being half as large as a scale.
This species is allied to H. fried richsthalii, salvini, Sec. ; a single specimen, 7^ inches
long, was found by Capt. Dow in the Lake of Managua.
Description. — The height of the body is nearly equal to the length of the head, and
two-fifths of the total length (without caudal). Head longer than high; snout of
moderate length, somewhat pointed, with the lower jaw prominent, and the cleft of
the mouth oblique. The maxillary reaches beyond the anterior margin of the eye.
The width of the orbit is one-fifth of the length of the head, and three-fourths of the
width of the interorbital space. The eye is situated immediately below the upper
profile ; its distance from the end of the snout is a little more than half of that from
the hinder margin of the operculum. Opercles scaly, the scales on the operculum
larger than those on the cheek ; suboperculum with two series of scales. Vertical fins
464 DE. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
slightly scaly at the base. The soft dorsal and anal do not reach to the middle of the
caudal. Caudal rounded. The distance between the dorsal and caudal is much less
than the depth of the free portion of the tail. Pectoral short, more than half the
length of the head, and extending only to the origin of the anal ; ventral with the
outer ray slightly produced, reaching beyond the vent. The distance between the vent
and the root of the ventral is not quite half the length of the head.
180. Heeos microphtiialmus.
Ciuuth. Fish. iv. p. 295.
D. 13. A. ^. L. lat. 34. L. transv. 5/14.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle ; six series of scales on the
cheek. The height of the body is contained twice and a third in the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head thrice and a third. Head as high as long ;
snout of moderate extent ; prseorbital wider than the eye. Cleft of the mouth rather
narrow, horizontal, with the jaws equal anteriorly. Interorbital space very convex,
twice as broad as the orbit ; the eye is a little nearer to the extremity of the snout
tlian to that of the opercle. Vertical fins scaly at the base ; the spinous dorsal is low,
the length of the twelfth spine being one-third or rather less than one-third of that of
the head. The free portion of the tail is rather higher than long. Pectoral much
shorter than the head, equal m length to the ventral, which does not extend on to the
vent. Brownish, Avith indistinct dark cross bands, and with a dark band along the sides
and tail, terminating at a black spot in the middle of the root of the caudal. Each
scale on the lateral and lower parts with a purple spot at the base. The soft portions
of the vertical fins with series of blackish dots ; axil of the pectoral orange-coloured.
Numerous examples, from 4 to 8 inches long, were collected by Mr. Godman in the
Kio Motagua.
181. Heros obloxgus.
D. j.j^jiy. A. g^. L. lat. 33. L. transv. 5^/15.
Closely allied to //. microjMhalmus, but with the body considerably more elongate.
The fold of the lower lip is continuous in the middle ; five series of scales on the
cheek. The height of the body is one-third of the total length (without caudal), the
length of the head two-sevenths. Mouth small, horizontal, with the jaws equal in
length. The length of the twelfth dorsal spine is less than one-third of that of the
head. Coloration as in H. microjjhtJmlmus.
Two examples, 7 and 8 inches long, were obtained by Mr. Godman from the Rio
Motagua.
Description.- — Head a little longer than high; snout of moderate extent; praeorbital
wider than the eye, the diameter of which is one-fifth of the length of the head. Cleft
of the mouth rather narrow, horizontal, with the jaws equal anteriorly, and the maxil-
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 465
lary not extending backwards to the v(>rtical from the front margin of the eye. Teeth
in a band, those of the outer series much larger and stronger than the others, and with
brown tips. Interorbital space convex, not quite twice as broad as the orbit. Eye
about equidistant from the end of the snout and that of the opercle. Vertical fins
scaly at the base. The spinous dorsal is rather low, the length of the twelfth spine
being less than one-third of that of the head. Soft dorsal and anal someu hat produced,
the former reaching to the middle of the caudal. The free portion of the tail is rather
longer than high. Caudal subtruncated, its length being a little less than one-fifth of
the total. Pectoral shorter than the head, about equal in length to the ventral, the
outer ray of which reaches to the vent. Brownish, with about five very indistinct
broad darker cross bands, descending from the back to a not less indistinct longitudinal
band which runs from above the pectoral to a black spot in the middle of the root of
the ventral. Vertical fins with transverse series of round whitish spots, separated by a
network of dark lines. Pectoral yellowish.
182. Herds nicaraguexsis. (Plate LXXVII. fig. 1.)
Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 153.
D. -y-j-. A. ^. L. lat. ?)5. L. transv. 5/13.
The fold of lower lip is interrupted in the middle. The height of the body is con-
tained twice and two-fifths in the total length (without caudal) ; the length of the head
thrice and one-fifth. Head much higher than long, in consequence of an adipose
swelling above the eye, which renders the shape of the head Coryphwna-like. Scales
on the cheek in six series, rather irregularly arranged. The first dorsal spine is inserted
above the upper end of the gill-opening. Dorsal and anal spines long, the sixteenth of
the dorsal fin being one-half the length of the head. Pectoral not quite as long as
the head. Brownish olive above, yellowish below ; back with five or six blackish cross
bands, not extending doAvnwards to beyond the middle of the side ; many scales with a
brown vertical marginal streak. The soft vertical fins with brown spots, each half as
large as a scale.
Two specimens, 6^ and 7 inches long, were collected by Capt. Dow in the Lake of
Nicaragua.
Description. — Snout elevated; prteorbital wider than the orbit, the diameter of wliich
is more than one-fourth of the lengtli of the head. Cleft of the mouth rather narrow,
horizontal, the jaws equal in front, and the maxillary not extending back to tlie vertical
from the front of the orbit. Teeth in a band, those of the outer series b(>ing somewhat
enlarged, and with brown tips. Interorbital space very convex, not (piite twice as broatl
as the orbit. The eye is about equally distant from the end of the snout and that of
the opercle, and far below the upper profile of the head. \'ertical fins scaly at the
base. Spinous dorsal not very low, the sixteenth spine being half as long as the head ;
VOL. VI. — PART vii. 3 s
466 DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
the soft portions of the dorsal and anal slightly produced, the former extending nearly
to tlie middle of the caudal. Free portion of the tail as high as long. Caudal slightly
emarginate, its length being considerably more than one-fifth of the total. The ventral
has the outer ray much produced, and reaches to the sixth anal spine.
183. Heros GODMANNi. (Plate LXXIV. fig. 5.)
(Tiiuth. Fish. iv. p. 296.
D. 1^2- -^- 5- ^' ^^^- ^^- ^- transv. 5/13.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in the middle ; six or seven series of scales on
the cheek. The height of the body is contained twice and three-fourths in the total
length (without caudal), the length of the head thrice or thrice and a third. The
profile of the nape is much curved. Head rather longer than high ; snout rather
elevated, the prseorbital being wider than the orbit. Cleft of the mouth rather narrow,
horizontal, with tlie jaws equal anteriorly, and with the maxillary not extending
backwards to the vertical from the front margin of the eye. The nape is elevated, and
the orbit considerably below the upper profile of the head. Dorsal and anal fins very
slightly scaly at the base ; the spinous dorsal is low, the length of the twelfth spine
being one-fourth of that of the head. The free portion of the tail is a little longer
than high. Head greyish olive ; cheeks and body reddish olive; an irregular blackish
band proceeds from above the pectoral to a black spot in the middle of the root of the
caudal. A black spot above the origin of the lateral band. Opercles, back, and vertical
fins with black dots.
Two specimens, 7 inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin in the River of Cahabon.
184. Heeds sieboldii.
Kuer & Steiudacliiier, Abhaiidl. bayer. Ak. Wiss. x. (18G4) p. 13, Taf. 2. fig. 2.
This fish is probably not sufficiently distinct from H. godinanni ; it is from New (jra-
nada, and the dark markings are arranged in irregular cross bands.
185. Herds gi'ttulatus. (Plate LXXVIII. fig. 3.)
Guiitli. Proe. Zool. Soc. 1864-, p. lo2.
D. jTj. A. y. L. lat. 33. L. transv. j|.
Very closely allied to //. godmanni.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in the middle. The height of the body is
contained twice and three-fifths in the total length (without taud;\l), the length of the
head thrice and a fifth. Head as high as long. The upper profile of the head descend-
ing in a gentle curve. Scales on the cheek in four or five series. The first dorsal spine
DR. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 407
is inserted behind the vertical from the upper end of the gill-opening. Dorsal spines
rather feeble, the length of the twelfth being two-sevenths of that of the head. Pectoral
two-thirds as long as the head. Upper parts blackish, each scale with a black base ;
lower parts reddish, with a broad blackish band from beliind the pectoral to tlie base
of the caudal ; many scales within or below the band with a black spot in the upper
or lower angle ; each scale on the side of the head with a black spot ; chin and throat
violet. The spinous dorsal black, with yellowish margin ; tlie soft parts of the vertical
fins with blackish spots.
This species inhabits the Lake of Amatitlan, where Mr. Salvin obtained numerous
examples up to 7 inches in length.
Bescrijjtion. — The profile of the head and nape forms a curve. Head as higli as long ;
snout rather elevated ; praeorbital wider than the eye, the diameter of which is a little
more than one-fifth of the length of the head, and about three-fifths of the width of the
interorbital space. Cleft of the mouth narrow, horizontal, the upper jaw slightly over-
lapping the lower, and the maxillary not extending backwards as far as the anterior
margin of the orbit. The six front teeth of the outer series are the longest, deep
brown. The orbit is considerably below the upper profile of the head, and somewhat
nearer to the end of the opercle than to that of the snout. Opercles scaly, the scales
on the cheek in four or five series, and smaller than those on the opercle. Vertical fins
not scaly at the base ; the soft dorsal and anal do not reach far beyond the root of the
caudal. Free portion of tail a little higher than long. Caudal subtruncated, two-
ninths of the total length. Pectoral three-fourths as long as the head ; ventral witli
the outer ray slightly produced, rather longer tlian the pectoral, and reacliing nearly to
the vent.
180. Herds irre(;ularis. (Plate LXXVIII. fig. 2.)
Theraps irreyularis, Giintli. Fisli. iv. p. 284-.
D. }|. A. gy. L. lat. 35. L. transv. 4/14.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in the middle. The height of the body is
nearly equal to the length of the head, wjiich is two-sevenths of the total (the caudal fin
not included). Head longer tlian high, with the snout compressed and prominent; tlie
length of the snout is two-fifths of tliat of the head, and twice or more than twice the
width of the orbit. The cleft of the moutli is small, extending backwards somewhat
behind the vertical from the nostril; upper jaw slightly overlapping the lower; teeth
in a narrow band, those of the outer series largest. Praeorbital wider than tlie orbit,
its width being equal to that of the interorbital space, which is rather convex. 'J'he eye
is situated immediately below the upper profile, its centre being a little behind tlie
middle of the length of the head. Scales on the cheek small, in six oblique series.
Scales on the opercles as large as those on the neck ; those near the base of tlie dorsal
and on the abdomen very small. Scales finely serrated. The dorsal fin commences
3 s 2
468 DR. aUNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
above the root of the ventral, and is not scaly. The spines are of moderate length and
strength, the length of the fifteenth being two-sevenths, or in old examples one-third of
that of the head. The soft portion does not extend to the caudal, if laid backwards. The
free portion of the tail much longer than high. Caudal rounded. Pectoral shorter than
the head. The ventral does not extend on to the vent. Reddish olive, marbled with
blackish ; the latter colour forming seven rather irregular transverse bands, some of
which extend on the dorsal fin. Belly silvery, marbled with blackish ; opercles and
some scales on the body with blue dots. The inner half of the soft vertical fins blackish
violet, the outer yellow ; spinous dorsal with yellow margin. Lower side of head
blackish violet.
I have now before me numerous examples of this species from the Kivers Chisoy,
.San Geronimo, and Santa Isabel ; and finding that the anal spines are normally five in
number, the number four of the typical specimen being merely accidental, I do not
hesitate to reunite the genus Theraps with Heros. The largest example in the collection
is 8 inches long.
187. Heros intermedius. (Plate LXXVIII. fig. 1.)
Giiutli. Fish. iv. p. 2'.)».
D. ^^. A. ^. L. lat. 32. L. transv. 513.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in the middle ; five or six series of scales on
the cheek. The height of the body is contained twice and three-fifths in the total
length (without caudal), the length of the head thrice and a fourth. The eye is not
very remote from the profile of the nape, which is curved. Head as high as long ;
praeorbital rather wider than the orbit. Cleft of the mouth rather narrow, horizontal,
with the jaws equal anteriorly. Base of the soft dorsal and anal with scarcely any
scales ; dorsal spines of moderate length and strength, the length of the twelfth being
one- third or nearly one-third of that of the head '. The soft dorsal and anal extend
slightly beyond the root of the caudal. The free portion of the tail is not quite so long
as high. Caudal subtruucated, its length being one-fifth of tlu^ total. Pectoral shorter
than the head, but rather longer than the ventral, which extends nearly to the vent.
Brownish, lower parts red in adult specimens ; a broad angular brown band on the
trunk, its horizontal branch extending from the gUl-opening to the vertical from the
tirst anal spine, whilst its vertical branch ascends to the hinder dorsal spines. Each
scale within this band witli a black vertical streak. A rather narrow brown band runs
from the angular band to a blackish spot at the root of tlie caudal. Vertical fins with
whitisli ocelli, enclosed by reddish streaks.
This species is closely allied to H. nebuUfer and //. anf/u/ifer, from which it may be
distinguished by its colours, and by the size of its scales. It inhabits Lake Peten, where
specimens 5 and 6 inches long were collected by Mr. Salvin.
' These spines are represented a little too short in the figure.
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 469
188. Herds an(juliker. (Plate LXXXV. fig. 1.)
Giiiitli. Fish. iv. p. ::.'y8.
D. ^. A. g. L. lat. 38. L. transv. 4/12.
The fold of the lower lip is interrupted in the middle ; four series of scales on the
cheek. The lieight of the body is two-fifths of the total length (without caudal),
the length of the head three-tenths. The eye is not very remote from the profil of
the nape, which is slightly curved. Head as high as long ; prseorbital scarcely wider
than the orbit. Cleft of the mouth rather narrow, horizontal, with the jaws equal
anteriorly, and with the maxillary not extending backwards to the vertical from the
front margin of the eye. Dorsal and anal fins not scaly ; dorsal spines of moderate
length and strengtli, the length of the twelfth being one-tliird of that of the head ; the
soft dorsal and anal extend to the root of the caudal. The free portion of the tail is as
long as high. Caudal subtruncated, its length being not quite one-fifth of tlie total.
Pectoral shorter than the head, but longer than the ventral, which does not extend to
the vent. Brownish olive, with a broad angular black band on the trunk, its horizont^il
branch extending from the eye to the vertical from the first anal spine, whilst its
vertical branch ascends to the hinder dorsal spines. Some scales within the band
and on the opercles with a black dot. A round blackish blotch on the root of tlie
caudal fin.
T\vo examples, 4 inclies long, were collected by Messrs. Godman and Salvin at Yzabal.
Petenia.
Giiutli. Fisli. iv. p. .301.
Body compressed, oblong, covered with ctenoid scales of moderate size. Dorsal
spines numerous, anal spines more than four ; the soft dorsal scaleless. Teeth in a
band, small, conical. Anterior prominences of the first branchial arch short, com-
pressed, distant. Cleft of the mouth wide; jaws very protractile. Scales on the cheeks
small. The origin of the ventral falls vertically below that of the dorsal.
189. Petenia SPLENDrDA. (Plate LXXIX. fig. 2.)
Giiiitli. /. c.
B. 5. D. Yr -^- To- L. lat. 41. L. transv. 6 17.
Scales on the cheek in about seven series. Greenish sliining golden ; liead, body,
and vertical fins with black dots. A series of six or seven large round black spots along
the middle of the side, the la.st spot being edged with white, and .situated on the upper
half of the root of the caudal.
Three examples were collected by Mr. Salvia in Lake Petcn. thi' largest being hi
inches long.
Neetkopli's.
This genus diffiTS from Heros in having a front series of flat incisor-like teeth. It is
470 DE. GUNTliEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
also closely allied to Etroplus, which f?cnus, however, has but a rudiinentaiy lateral line,
wliilst in Aeefroplus it is as much developed as in Heros.
190. Neetroplus nematopus. (Plate LXXIV. tig. 4.)
D. jj. A. % L. lat. 34. L. transv. 51/12.
The fold of the lower jaw interrupted in the middle ; five series of scales on tlie
cheek. Incisoi'S g-. The outer ventral ray produced into a filament as long as the fin.
One specimen, 4^ inches long, was discovered by Capt. Dow in Lake Managua.
Bescrvption. — The height of the body is contained twice and three-fifths in the total
length (without caudal), the length of the head thrice and two-fifths. Head as high as
long, with an adipose prominence over the eye, which renders the profile of the fore-
liead somewhat abrupt; snout rather compressed and prominent, the length of the
snout is two-fifths of that of the head, and more than the width of the orbit, which is
nearly one-third of the length of the head. Cleft of the mouth small, extending back-
wards somewhat behind the vertical from the nostril ; jaws equal in front ; teeth in a
band, those of the outer series being genuine incisors, which appear to be replaced by
smaller ones, standing behind in a band. Praeorbital wider than the eye, equal in width
to the interorbital space, which is convex. The eye is situated at some distance from
the upper profile, nearer to the end of the opercle than to that of the snout. Scales on
the cheek small, in about five oblique series. Posterior limb of proeoperculum about
twice as long as the inferior, and descending obliquely forwards. Scales on the
opercles as large as those on the neck ; those near the base- of the dorsal and on the
abdomen very small. The dorsal fin commences above the vertical from the hinder
margin of the operculum. Dorsal and anal scaly at the base. Spines rather strong,
the sixteenth dorsal spine being nearly one-half of the length of the head. The soft
portions of both fins are produced, and reach beyond the middle of the caudal. Caudal
truncated. Pectoral shorter than the head. Outer ray of ventral produced into a
filament as long as the fin. Brownish-olive, with irregular darker clouds.
MlCRODESMrs.
(Uinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1864, p. 2G.
Body much elongate, eel-like, covered with rudimentary scales. Head rather short.
with snout obtuse, cleft of the mouth narrow, and lower jaw prominent. Eyes minute.
Teeth in both jaws minute ; palate toothless. The gill-opening is reduced to a small
slit in front of the pectoral fin. Vertical fins united by a membrane ; but the caudal
can be easily distinguished from the two other fins. Dorsal fin very long, composed of
fiexible, undivided rays, like the anal. Pectorals short ; ventrals thoracic, each reduced
to a single ray. Vent in the middle of the total lengtli.
1 am not able at present to add anything to the knowledge of tliis fish \^ hich would
elucidate its natural affinities and indicate its systematic position.
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 471
191. MlCRODESMUS DIl'US.
(ninth. /. c, pi. .3. fig. 2.
D 55. A. 34. C. in. P. 12. V. 1.
The deptli of the body is about oue-eighteenth of the total Ien more than ono-third of the length of the head ; maxillary scaly.
Interorbital space very narrow, concave, one-third of the vertical width of the orbit ;
the concavity is produced by two ridges convergent posteriorly. Head nearly entirely
covered with ciliated scales. Rays of the vertical fins scaly, tlie distance between the
dorsal and caudal fins is one-half of the depth of the free portion of the tail. The
longest dorsal rays are somewhat behind the middle of the fin, and four-ninths of the
length of the head. Pectoral rays not prolonged. Body nearly uniform reddish olive ;
some of the dorsal, anal, and caudal rays with elongate dark-brown spots.
One specimen, 7 inches long, was collected by Messrs. Dow and Sahin on the Pacific
coast of Panama.
198. PSEUDOEHOMBUS BE.\SIUENS1S.
Hippoglossus brasUiensis, Ranzani, Comra. Bonon. v. p. 10, tab. 8.
Rhoinbits aramacu, Castelii., not Cuv.
Pseudorhombus vorax, Guutli. Fish. iv. p. 429.
This species is known to occur on the coast of Brazil ; however, there is a specimen
in the British Museum, which formed part of a collection containing numerous fishes
from Guatemala ; and I mention it, therefore, in this list to draw attention to this species.
200. Aphoristia ornata, var. eloncuta.
Two examples, 5 inches long, collected by Mr. Salvin on the Pacific coast of Panama,
differ, from specimens from the West Indies, only in having the body more elongate, its
depth being contained four times and two-thirds in the total length (with the caudal).
The number of fin-rays is the same, viz. D. 97, A. 82 ; L. lat. 98.
201. Amiurus meridioxalis. (Plate LXXXI. fig. 1.)
Gunth. Fish. v. p. 102.
D. 1/G. A. 28-29. P. 1/9.
Head one-half or one-third longer than broad ; the maxillary barbels extend to the
end of the head. The length of the dorsal spine is somewhat less than that of the head
without snout, and nearly equal to that of the pectoral spine. Adipose fin short. The
height of the body is one-fifth of the total length (witliout caudal), the length of the
head one-fourth or two-ninths. Snout obtusely rounded, with the upper jaw longer
tlian the lower. The diameter of the eye is one-half or two-fifths of the extent of the
snout, and one-third or two-sevenths of the length of the postorbital portion of the
head. The band of maxillary teeth is five or six times as broad as long. The outer
mandibulary barbels extend to the posterior margin of the gill-membrane. The distance
of the dorsal spine from the snout is a little more than one-half of its distance from the
caudal fin ; it is finely serrated behind. The length of the base of the adipose fin equals
that of the dorsal. Caudal fin deeply forked ; the upper lobe is somewhat the longer,
VOL. VI. tart VII. 3 T
474 DK. GUNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTKAL AMERICA.
its length being equal to, or a little less than, that of the head. The anal fin terminates
behind the adipose fin, and its last rays do not extend to the base of the caudal. Axil
of tlie pectoral with a very distinct porus mucosus. The pectoral spine is serrated
interiorly, sometimes a little longer, sometimes a little shorter, but always rather stronger
than that of the dorsal fin. Pectoral fin longer than ventral, two-thirds or three-fifths
of tlie length of tlie head. The ventral extends to the origin of the anal. Ujjper parts
brownisli, with steel-blue reflexions ; lower parts silvery, with a reddish tinge.
Three examples were collected by Mr. Salvin in the Rio Usuraacinta ; the largest is
15 inches long.
205. PiMELODUS WAGNERI.
Piiiivlodus cinerascens, Kncr & Steindachner, Abhandl. bayer. Akad. x. p. 49 (not Gthr.).
D. 1/6. A. 11-12.
Head covered with soft skin above. Adipose fin one-third of the total length (without
caudal). The maxillary barbels extend beyond the root of tlie ventrals ; the outer ones
of the mandible dt) not quite reach the base of the pectorals. The length of the head
is contained from five times and two-fifths to five times and seven-eighths in the total
(with the caudal), the height of the body seven times and one-third, or seven times and
one-half. Upper jaw projecting beyond the lower. The eye is equidistant from the
end of the snout and from that of the gill-cover ; its diameter is one-seventh or one-
eighth of the length of the head, and contained twice and two-thirds or twice and
thi-ee-fourths in the width of the interorbital space. Dorsal fin witli the spine very
feeble, as high as long. Pectoral fin two-tliirds as long as head. Porus axillaris
small. Coloration uniform, a darker streak along the lateral line ; dorsal fin with the
usual whitish cross band, and sometimes with a large round black spot between the
last two rays.
Pacific and Atlantic rivers of Panama.
The complete diagnosis of P. cinerascens (Gthr.), accompanied by a most accurate
figure, ])roves at once that the species discovered by Ilr. "Wagner is distinct from it. It
appears to be nearest to P. godmanni .
206. PiMELODUS MANAGUENSIS. '
D. 1/6. A. 14-15. P. 1/9.
Head covered with soft skin above ; occipital process styliform, not extending to the
basal bone of the dorsal spine. Adipose fin very long, rather more than one-third of
the total length (without caudal) ; its distance from the dorsal is equal to the length of
the base of the latter. The maxillary barbels are rather short, extending nearly to the
base of the dorsal fin, the outer ones of the mandibles reach beyond the root of tlie
pectoral. The height of the body is contained six times in the t(jtal length (without
DK. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 475
caudal); the length of the head five times. The lower jaw is slightly shorter than the
upper. Interorbital space flat, its width being less than twice the width of the eye.
Dorsal fin with the spine very feeble, somewhat higher than long. Pectoral fin rather
short, as long as the head, without snout ; its spine about double the length of the
humeral spine. Porus axillaris distinct. Ventral rather longer than the jxHtoial.
Anal fin with the base longer than that of the dorsal ; its rays do not extend nearly to
the end of the adipose fin if laid backwards. Caudal cleft to the base ; its upper lobe
less rounded and narrower than the lower one, wliich is one-seventh of the total length.
Coloration uniform, dorsal fin with a whitish cross band.
One specimen, 9 inches long, was obtained by Capt. Dow in the I-ake of Managua.
214. Aru's .\ssimii.is.
(iiintli. Fish. v. p. 146.
D. 1/T. A. 19. P. 1/10.
The height of the body is contained four times and two-thirds in the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head thrice and three-fifths; head much broader
than high, its greatest width being three-fourths of its length. Eyes rather small,
situated nearer to the end of the snout than to that of the operculum ; the length of
the snout is three-fifths of the width of the interorbital space. The median lonfjitmlhuil
fonticulus on the upjyer side of the head does not extend to the base of the occipital jjro-
cess. Teeth on the vomer but slightly separated in the middle, forming
a pair of oblong transverse patches, which are confluent with those on
the palatine bones; the latter are short, club-shaped. The band of
intermaxillary teeth is five times as broad as long. All the teeth villi-
form. The maxillary barbels extend nearly to the end of the head ; the
length of the outer ones of the mandible is one-half or two-thirds of that of the head.
Crown of the head granular, the granulations being arranged in radiating streaks.
Occipital process broader than long, triangular, with its hinder end concave. Tlie
basal bone of the dorsal spine of moderate size, crescent-shaped. Dorsal spine of
moderate strength, more than half as long as the head, granulated in front and slightly
serrated behind ; the first soft ray is longer tlian the spine and as high as the bod) .
Adipose fin shorter than the dorsal. Caudal deeply forked, with the upper lobe
longest, its length being contained five times and a half in the total. Pectoral spine
serrated along its inner edge and on the extremity of the outer edge. V'entral fin
shorter than pectoral. Sides of the body silvery; vertical fins greyish; basal half of
the inner side of the paired fins black.
One example, 13 inches long, was obtained by Messrs. Godman and Salvin in the
Lake of Yzabal.
Ilexanematichthijs hi/inenorrhinos, Bleek. Versl. & Mededeel. Akad. ^^'etensch. Amsterd.
1862, xiv. p. 377. appears to be closely allied to the above species; and we should not
3 T 2
476 DE. GtJNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
hesitate to refer our specimens to it, if the barbels of Bleeker's species were not much
lonoer, those of the maxillaries extending on to the base of the ventral fin, and the
outer ones of the mandible to the base of the pectoral. The specimen in the Leyden
Museum is 8^ inches long.
219. Arius dovii.
Mr. Gill (Proc. Acad. Nat. 8c. Philad. 1863, p. 170) describes a species discovered
by Capt. Dow on the Pacific coast of Central America, under the name of Leptanus
dowii. Leptarius is a distinct genus, according to Mr. Gill, characterized by having
the band of teeth quadripartite, the head granulated and without lateral fontanelles, a
slender body, and a very slender caudal peduncle, the anal fin rather low and oblong,
the thin adipose fin extending behind the anal, and the fins little developed. — The
species is not described ; but detailed comparative measurements of the single example
(which is 5| inches long) are given.
222. .Elurichthys nuchalis. (Plate LXXXI. fig. 2.)
Giiuth. Fish. v. p. 179.
I). 1/7. A. 26. p.. 1/12.
The height of the body is rather less than the length of the head, which is two-ninths
of the total (without caudal) ; the greatest width of the head is three-fourths of its
length ; snout longer than the eye, the diameter of which is rather less than one-fourth
of the length of the head. The vomerine band of teeth is separated in the middle by a
short interspace, each half being as broad, and long as the palatine band, with which it
is subcontinuous. The maxillary barbels extend to the root of the ventral, those of the
mandible nearly to the pectoral. The dorsal buckler is as broad behind as in front,
with rounded lateral margins, each half being bent downwards on the side. Dorsal fin
narrow and elevated, the first ray being considerably longer than the spine, which is as
long as the head without snout ; pectoral spine equal to the dorsal spine. Tlie origin
of the anal fin is much nearer to the base of the caudal than to that of the pectoral.
The first pectoral ray is produced into a long filament reaching beyond tlie origin of the
anal. Ventrals extending beyond the vent, their length being three-fifths of that of the
head. Iridescent blue above, silvery below.
One example, 11 inches long, was obtained by Messrs. Salvin and Dow on the Pacific
coast of Panama.
223. .Elurichtiiys panamexsis.
(iill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 172.
This species is described thus : —
D. ]/7. A. 27. P. 1/13.
The greatest height is contained five times in the len^tli to the base of the caudal fin.
DE. GtJNTHIlR ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMERICA. 477
and six times and a half in the total. The height of the caudal peduncle equals half
the interorhital area, and is half its length behind the anal fin. The smooth head
enters four times in the length to the middle of the central caudal ray, and nearly five
times in the total. The width of the head enters once and one-third in its length, and
the width of the interorhital area once and two-thirds. The eye is elliptical, its diameter
equals a fourth of the head's length, and the distance from the anterior nostril is equal
to it. The maxillary barbels extend backwards nearly to the anus, and the mental to
the bases of the pectoral fins. The dorsal buckler is rather longer than wide, with its
anterior margin concealed, and its lateral and posterior very conspicuous, rounded
towards the posterior angles, and emarginated behind ; the sides slope and form a
rectangle, and the surface is filled with deep oblong pits. The anal fin is situated
midway between, or scarcely in advance of, the central point between the bases of the
pectoral and caudal fins; it is oblong, and equals or nearly equals the width of the
head. The pectoral filaments extend about to the middle of tlie anal fin ; the ventrals
are inserted midway between the lower jaw and base of caudal, and extend backwards
to the anus, entering twice and a half in the head's length. The colour above is
plumbeous ; the pectorals thickly dotted with black on their inner faces, and the anal
less so.
One specimen, 8 inches long, has been collected by Cajit. Dow on the Pacific coast of
Panama.
224. Plecostomus bicirrhosus (Gronov.).
Messrs. Kner & Steindachner (Abhandl. bayer. Ak. x. p. GO) mention a species of this
genus from Pacific and Atlantic rivers of Panama, which they regard as a variety of
Plecostomus Mcirrliosus, but which difiers in several respects.
225. ClLETOSTOMUS ASPIDOLEPIS.
D. 1/7. A. 5. P. l/(). L. lat. 25.
Head large, depressed, a little longer than broad, its length being contained thrice
and one-third in the total (without caudal); snout very broad, rounded in front. Inter-
orbital space nearly flat, with a very slight rising along the middle. Orbit small, its
diameter being one-third of the width of the interorhital space. Margin of the snout
granulated. Interoperculum with very few, and for the greater part short, setiform
spines, the longest of which is about half as long as the orbit. Thorax and belly
granulated, with naked patches. Dorsal fin higher than long, the length of its anterior
rays being nearly equal to that of the head ; the length of its base equals its distance
from the hinder axil of the adipose fin. There are seven scutes between the two
dorsal fins. The pectoral spine is strong, rather longer than the head, covered behind
with setiform spinules. The ventral fins extend somewhat behind the anal. Twelve
scutes between anal and caudal. Scutes of the body with a prominent keel, each keel
478 DE. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
with from four to seven short setiform spines. Posthumoral ridge rather distinct. Each
scute is variegated with dirty yellow and dark brown.
I have received of this species only a single skinned example, 12^ inches long; it is
from Veragua.
22G. Ch^tostomus cirrhosus (Val.).
Messrs. Kner & Steindachner (/. c. p. 61) mention this species from the Rio Chagres ;
but their species is probably distinct from it.
227. LORICARIA URACANTHA.
Kucr & Steindaclmerj Abhandl. baycr. Akad. x. p. 56, Taf. 6. fig. 3.
Snout broad, of moderate length ; eye of moderate size, with a notch in its posterior
margin, its horizontal diameter is one-half of the width of the interorbital space, which
is slightly concave, owing to the raised supraorbitals. Eight or ten rather large bifid
teeth in eacli jaw. Labial folds broad, with numerous papilla-, and a small lateral
barbel. The lower side of the head naked ; scutes of the neck but very indistinctly
bicarinate. L. lat. 27. There are seven lateral scutes between the pectoral and ventral
fins. Thorax and belly with numerous small irregular scutes. The origin of the dorsal
is opposite to that of the ventrals. The length of the outer pectoral ray is contained
six times and a half in the total (without caudal). The itpper caudal ray very thick and
strong. Rays of all the fins spotted.
Pacific and Atlantic rivers of Panama.
229. Macrodon microlepis (Gthr.).
The fish described by Messrs. Kner and Steindachner (l c. p. 28) under the name of
M. tareira belongs to this species.
2o6. Tetragoxopterus ^neus (Gthr.).
This species has been recognized in a collection from Panama by Messrs. Kner and
Steindachner {J. c. p. 46).
237. Chalcinopsis dextex. (Plate LXXXII. fig. 1, f nat. size.)
Bnjcon dentex, Giinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1860, p. 240.
Chalcinopsis dentex, Giinth. Fish. v. p. 337.
D. 11. A. 35-36. L. lat. 48-55. L. transv. ^. Vert. 23/22.
The height of the body is contained thrice and one-fourth or thrice and one-third in
the total length (without caudal), the length of the head four times and one-third or
four times and two-thirds. The maxillary does not quite extend to below the centre of
the eye. Snout as long as the eye in young examples, but much longer in adult ones.
Interorbital space convex, its width being much more than the diameter of the eye in
I
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 479
old specimens. The origin of the dorsal fin is nearer to the root of the caudal than to
the extremity of the snout ; its hinder rays are vertically above the anterior anal rays.
The free portion of the tail is considerably longer than high. Caudal deeply forked.
The pectoral extends to, or nearly to, or a little beyond, the ventral. Silvery, sometimes
with a reddish hue ; a part of the scales have sometimes a black margin, or are spotted
with black ; humeral part of the gill-opening black ; sometimes a black spot at the root
of the caudal. Anal fin generally with a l)lack margin.
Specimens, up to 10 inches in length, were collected by Messrs. Salvin and Godman in
the Rio Motagua and Usumacinta, and at Yzabal. The species occurs also in Ecuador.
240. Anacyrtus guatemalensis. (Plate LXXXII. %. 4.)
Aiiaqirtits [Rceboides) r/uatemalensis, Giinth. Fish. v. p. 347.
D. 11. A. 51. V. 8. 1.. lat. 80. L. transv. 19/22.
Upper and lower jaw anteriorly on eucli side with a short, conical, tooth-like process
directed forwards ; teeth in the intermaxillary, maxillary, and mandible in a single,
rather irregular series ; no canine teeth in the upper jaw, those in the lower small and
short. Back elevated, the upper profile of the head and nape forming an S-shaped
curve. The height of the body is contained twice and three-fourths in the total length
(without caudal), the length of the head four times. The lower jaw is rather shorter
than the upper ; the maxillary extends to the vertical from the centre of the eye. The
width of the interorbital space is a little less than the diameter of the eye, wliich is
two-sevenths of the length of the head. The humeral process in front of the pectoral
terminates in a point anteriorly and posteriorly. The origin of the dorsal fin is a little
nearer to the extremity of the snout than to the root of the caudal, above the fifth or
sixth anal ray; caudal deeply forked; the ventral is inserted below the middle of tlir
pectoral, which extends nearly to the origin of the anal. Light reddish olive with a
silvery lateral band.
Specimens, up to 6 inches in length, were collected by Mr. Salvin at Huaniafhal.
and in the Chagres River.
244. Exoc(ETLs CALLOi'TERUS. (Plate LXXXIII.)
Gunth. Fish. vi. p. 292.
D. 11-12. A. 8. L. lat. 46.
Body stout, its height being one-fifth of the total length (without caudal), the Icugtli of
the head being somewhat less than one-fourth. The depth of the head equals the distance
between the extremity of the snout and the hind margin of the prseoperculum. Snout
obtuse and depressed, three-fifths of the length of the diameter of the eye, which is
one-third of the length of the head, and less than the width of the interorbital space,
which is slightly concave. The pectoral fin extends to the end of the dorsal. Ventral
480 BR. GUNTHEE OX THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
tins midway between praeoperculum and root of the caudal, extending nearly to the end
of the base of the anal. The dorsal commences far in advance of the anal, its anterior
rays being half as long as the head. The distance between the first dorsal raij and the
first rudimentary caudal raij ecpials the length of the head. There are thirty-four scales
betAveen the occiput and origin of the dorsal, and nine longitudinal series of scales
between the origin of the dorsal and the lateral line. Pectoral with numerous small
roundish blackish-brown spots and with the lower and upper rays whitish. Ventral
white, tlie middle rays greyish.
Two examples, 10 inches long, were obtained by C'apt. Dow on the Pacific coast of
Panama.
ChAEAC'ODOX.
Giiutii. Fish. vi. p. 308.
Cleft of the mouth small, developed laterally and horizontally ; mandible short, with
the bones of each side firmly united. Snout short. Teeth rather small, bicuspid, in a
single series ; but there is a narrow band of villiform teeth behind the series of incisors.
Scales of moderate size. Origin of the anal fin opposite, or nearly opposite, to that of
the dorsal. Sexes not differentiated. Intestinal tract but slightly convoluted.
247. Chakacodon lateralis. (Plate LXXXII. fig. 2, fem.)
D. 10-11. A. 13 in fem., 15-16 in male. L. lat. 35. L. transv. 12.
In general habits very similar to a Cyprinodon. Body rather elevated, with the neck
somewliat arched, its greatest depth being rather more than the length of the head,
and one-third of the total (without caudal). Head thick and broad, with the snout
obtuse, as long as, or rather longer than, the diameter of the eye, which is one-fourth
or two-ninths of the length of the head. The mandible ascends obliquely, and is longer
than the eye. There are about twenty smallish teetli in each jaw, their apex is indistinctly
notched. Interorbital space flat, its width being two-fifths of the length of the head.
The origin of the dorsal fin is a little nearer to the end of the caudal than to tlie
occiput, and a little behind that of the anal. Both fins are small and rounded. In the
male the six anterior rays of the anal are of nearly equal length, but considerably
shorter than the following, forming a very distinct portion of the fin ; all these rays
are very closely set. Caudal fin small, truncate or slightly convex. The distance
between dorsal and caudal is somewhat more than the least depth of the tail, and equal
to the distance between eye and gill-opening. Brownish olive (in spirits), with a darker
band running from the eye to the root of the caudal : tliis band is sometimes broken up
into a more or less regular series of brownish-black spots.
There are several examples, from If to 2^ inches long, in the British Museum ; they
are from Dr. Seemann's collection, who obtained them in Southern Central America.
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 481
248. IIaplociiilus dovii. (Plate LXXXII. fig. 5.)
Giinth. Fish. vi. p. 315.
D. 8. A. 14. V. G. L. lat. 31. L. transv. 8.
The height of the body is contained five times in the total length (without caudal),
the length of the head thrice and two-thirds ; head elongate, low, and depressed, with
the snout much produced and the upper jaw somewhat longer than the lower ; the eye
occupies exactly the middle of the length of the head, its diameter being two-ninths of it,
and more than one-half of the width of the interorbital space, which is flat. The origin
of the dorsal fin is a little nearer to the extremity of tlie caudal than to the gill-opening,
and corresponds to the twenty-third scale of the lateral line. Anal fin entirely before
the dorsal ; pectoral extending to ventral, which reaches the vent ; caudal roimded ; all
the fins well developed. Light brownish olive ; posterior half of the dorsal and anal fins
with black cross bands ; basal half of the caudal with round light spots.
Two specimens, 6 inches long, probably males, were collected by Capt. Dow at Punta
Arenas, Costa Rica.
249. Fu-VDULus L.\BiALis. (Plate LXXXIV. figs. 1 & 2.)
Gunth. Fish. vi. p. 319.
B. 6. U. 13-14. A. 10-17. V. 6. L. lat. 37-39. L. transv. 15.
The height of the body, taken on the level of the base of the pectoral, is two-ninths
of the total length (without caudal). Head rather depressed, its length being contained
four times or four times and a third in the total. Interorbital space broad, slightlv
convex, its width being less than one-half of the length of the head. Snout broad,
obtuse, depressed, with the jaws perfectly equal in front; mandible very short, not
longer than the eye. Upper lip well developed, broad, extending to the angle of the
mouth. The diameter of the eye is less than the length of the snout, or than one-
fourth of that of the head, and, in females, one-half of the width of the interorbital
space, whilst in males the forehead is somewhat narrower. The origin of the dorsal
fin is midway between the extremity of the caudal and the orbit, and corresponds to the
first ray of the anal. Dorsal fin as high as long in both sexes ; anal fin rounded in the
male, scarcely higher than long; much elevated in the female, the length of its base
being two-thirds only of its depth. Genital opening of the female immediately in
front of, but disconnected from, the anal fin. I'asal third of the caudal fin (which is
subtruncate) scaly. Body uniform brownish olive, paler below ; sometimes irregular
cloudy markings on the tail. Fins immaculate ; the anal fin of the male is black at the
base, and bright yellow on its marginal half; also the upper margin of the dorsal fin of
the same sex is yellowish.
Numerous examples, up to 4^ inches long, were collected by Messrs. Salvin and
Godman in the Rio San Geronimo and at Yzabal. Figure 1 represents the male, and
fig. 2 the female. j
VOL. VI. — PART VII. I 3 u
482 DE. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
250. FuNDULUS PUNCTATUS. (Plate LXXXIV. iig. 5.)
Gunth. Fish. vi. p. 320.
D. 12. A. 13. V. G. L. lat. 34. L. transv. 12.
The height of the body, taken on the level of the base of the pectoral, is two-ninths
of the total length (without caudal). Head depressed, its length being one-fourth of
the total. Interorbital space very broad, slightly convex, its width being one-half of
the length of the head. Snout broad, obtuse, much depressed, with the lower jaw
scarcely projecting beyond the upper; mandible longer than the eye. Upper lip of
moderate breadth, not extending to the angle of the mouth. The diameter of the eye
is less than the length of the snout, two-ninths of that of the head, and less than one-
half of the width of the interorbital space. The origin of the dorsal fin is somewhat
nearer to the extremity of the caudal than to the orbit, and corresponds to the nine-
teenth scale of the lateral line. The first anal ray is opposite to the third of the dorsal.
Dorsal and anal fins subquadrangular, with the outer margins convex : both are a little
longer than high. Caudal fin subtruncate, scaly on its basal half. Pectoral fins shorter
than the head without snout, not extending to the base of the ventrals. Brownish
olive, paler below, each scale, especially those on the tail, with a vertical dark purplish
violet spot on the centre. Dorsal with three or four series of blackish dots, anal with
a whitish margin.
A single male, 3^ inches long, was obtained by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam.
251. FUNDULUS GUATEMALENSIS. (Plate LXXXIV. figs. 3 & 4.)
Gunth. Fish. vi. p. 321.
D. 12(13). A. 14-15(10). L. lat. 32-35. L. transv. 12.
The lieight of the body, taken on the level of the base of the pectoral, equals the
length of the head, and is one-fourth or rather more than one-fourth of the total length
(without caudal). Head thick and broad ; interorbital space broad, slightly convex, its
width being a little less than one-half of the length of the head. Snout broad, obtuse,
with the lower jaw slightly projecting beyond the upper ; mandible longer than the eye.
The diameter of the eye is equal to, or, in the larger specimens, less than the length of
the snout, one-fourth of that of the head, and one-half of the width of the interorbital
space. The origin of the dorsal fin is midway between the exti'emity of the caudal and
the posterior margin of the orbit, and corresponds to the nineteenth scale of the lateral
line. The first anal ray corresponds to the second of the dorsal. Dorsal and anal fins
subquadrangular, rather low, longer than high in the male, and as long as high in the
female. Two-thirds of caudal covered with small scales. Brown above and on tlie
sides, pale below; females with a very indistinct dark band along the side. Fins
immaculate ; anal with a light margin.
The sexual opening of the female is not attached to the anterior anal rays
DR. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 483
Numerous examples, up to 3^ inches long, were collected by Mr. Salvin in the Lakes
of Duenas and Amatitlan, and in the Rio Guacalate. This species occurs also in
Western Ecuador. Figure 3 represents the male, and fig. 4 the female.
252 FuNDULUS rACiiYCEriiALrs. (Plate LXXXIV. fig. 6.)
Giinth. Fish. vi. p. 3.21.
This species is closely allied to F. (juntemaloisis, but has a thicker head and
.smaller eye.
D. 13-14. A. \'). V. 6. L. lat. 35. L. transv. 12.
The height of the body, taken on the level of the base of the pectoral, is contained
thrice and one-fifth or thrice and four-fifths in the total length (without caudal). Head
very thick and broad, its length being contained thrice and one-third in the total.
Interorbital space very broad, slightly convex, its width being one-half of the length
of the head. Snout broad, obtuse, with the lower jaw slightly projecting beyond the
upper ; mandible longer than the eye. The diameter of the eye is less than the length
of the snout, one-fourth of that of tlie liead, and one-half of the width of the inter-
orbital space. The origin of the dor.sal fin is midway between the extremity of the
caudal and the anterior or posterior margin of the orbit, and corresponds to the six-
teenth scale of the lateral line. The first anal ray corresponds to the third of the
dorsal. Dorsal and anal fins subquadrangular, of moderate height, the latter fin being
scarcely higher than long. Caudal fin subtruncate. Brownish above and on the sides,
each scale darker on the tip ; an indistinct dark band along the middle of the tail.
Fins immaculate, anal with the lower margin whitish.
Three males, '2\ inches long, were obtained by Mr. Salvin in tlie Lake of Atitlau.
254. Gambusia xicaraguensis. (Plate LXXXIL fig. 3. fem.)
Giinth. Fish. vi. p. 33(5.
D. 8. A. 10. L. lat. 29. L. transv. 8.
The height of the body is contained thrice and a third in the total length (without
caudal), the length of the head thrice and two-thirds. Snout broad, subspatulate, with
the lower jaw projecting beyond the upper. The diameter of the eye is a little more
than the length of snout, one-third of that of the head, and three-fifths of the width of
the interorbital space. In the female the origin of the dorsal fin is somewhat nearer to
the extremity of the caudal than to the end of the snout, and opposite to the last ray
of the anal fin. Pectoral fins not quite reaching as far backwards as the ventrals,
which terminate immediately in front of the anal fin. Free portion of the tail rather
short, the length of the base of the anal fin being one-half of its distance from tlu;
caudal fin. Brownish olive above, sometimes with series of black dots along the rows
3 u2
484 DE. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMERICA.
of scales. Dorsal and caudal tins crossed by series of black dots ; middle of anal
blackish.
Several females, 1^ or 2 inches long, were obtained by Capt. Dow in the Lake of
Nicaragua.
259. P(ECILIA ELOXGATA. (Plate LXXXV. fig. 2, fem.)
Giinth. Fish. vi. p. 342.
D. y. A. 8. L. lat. 30-32. L. transv. 9.
The height of the body is contained four times in the total length (without caudal),
the length of the head four times and a third. The free portion of the tail is elevated,
its least depth being contained once and two-thii'ds in its own length, and nearly equal
to the length of the head without snout. The diameter of the eye equals the length
of the snout, is two-sevenths of that of the head, and more than one-half of the width
of the interorbital space. Snout much depressed. Lower jaw with a single series of
very small teeth only ; and also in the upper the posterior band of villitbrm teeth is
very indistinct. Origin of the dorsal tin nearer to the root of the caudal than to the
occiput, a little behind that of the anal, above the fourteenth scale of the lateral line.
Dorsal &i higher than long, its longest ray being as long as the head without snout.
Anal small. There are eight longitudinal series of scales on each side of the tail.
C'audal rounded, its base only covered with scales. Uniform greenish ; the membrane
of the pouches of scales with a blackish margin. Fins immaculate.
This species is known from a female only, 5 inches long ; it was obtained by Capt.
Dow at Panama.
260. P(ECILIA PETE-XEXSis. (Plate LXXXV. fig. 3, male; fig. 4, fem.)
Giinth. Fish. vi. p. .342.
D. IL A. 8. L. lat. 29-30. L. transv. 8-9. Vert. 16/14.
The height of the body (measured below the anterior dorsal rays) is contained four
times and one-fifth in tlie total length (without caudal) in females, and thrice and one-
fourth in males, the males having the body much higher and shorter. The length of
the head is one-fifth of the same length in the female, and one-fourth in the male. The
diameter of the eye is a little less than the length of the snout, two-sevenths or one-
fourth of that of the head, and somewhat more than one-half of the interorbital space.
The origin of the dorsal fin is further distant from the root of the caudal tlian from the
occiput, and corresponds to the eleventh or twelfth scale of the lateral line. Origin of
the anal opposite to the fourth ray of the dorsal (in the female). Dorsal fin of moderate
size; anal rather small, but pointed; caudal scaly in its basal tliird. Tlte free portion
of the tail is compressed, rather high, its least depth being one-half of its length, and
equal to the length of the the head without snout. There are seven longitudinal
DE. GUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 485
series of" scales on each side of the tail. Lateral Hue ratlier indistinct. Greenish, each
scale with a black vertical spot. Dorsal and basal half of the anal irregidarly and finely
marbled with brown.
The male has the dorsal fin somewhat elevated, the longest ray being rather longer
than the head. Anal fin modified into an intromiftent organ, and advanced to between
the ventrals, in fi'ont of the dorsal. Tail strongly compressed, and much higher tlian
in the female, its least depth being equal to the length of the head.
Five examples, up to 6 inches in length, were collected by Mr. Salvin in Lake Petcn.
'202. PffiCILIA GILLII.
Messrs. Kner & Steindachner (Abhandl. bayer. Akad. Wiss. x. p. 25, Taf. 4. fig. 1) have
described a species of this genus from the Rio Chagres under the name of Xipliopltoi us
gillii. It would appear to be most closely allied to P. dovii ; but there are some appa-
rently slight differences, which have induced me to keep the two species distinct until 1
shall have had an opportunity of comparing specimens from the Rio Chagres witli thi'
typical examples of P. dovii.
204. MoLLiEXE.siA I'ETENENSis. (Plate LXXXVL figs. 1-3.)
Giiuth. Fish. vi. p. 348.
B. 0. D. 15. A. 8-9. L. lat. 30. L. transv. 10. Yert. 17/13.
The height of the body is one-third of the total length (without caudal), the length
of the head one-fourth or two-ninths. The diameter of the eye is equal to the length of
the snout, two-sevenths of that of the head, and rather less than one-half of the width
of the interorbital space. The length of the dorsal fin of the male is one-half of the
distance between eye and root of the caudal, in the female two-fifths ; caudal rounded,
with scales at the base only. The free portion of the tail is as higli as long, and
covered by nine longitudinal series of scales on each side. Lateral line very indistinct.
Greenish, or brownish green, sihery below ; a dark spot to each scale of the upper and
middle caudal series and the lower part of the trunk. Dorsal fin of the adult male with
small irregular brown lines or spots, and with a row of large rounded spots along the
middle of its height. Interradial membrane of the caudal with numerous black dots ;
the lower part of the hind margin black. Females and immature males have the
dorsal fin simply ornamented with small irregularly curved brown spots.
Three examples, up to 5 inches in length, were collected by Mr. Salvin in Lake Peten.
Figure 1 represents the adult male, fig. 2 the immature male, and fig. 3 the adult
female, all of the natviral size.
205. XiiMioi'iiORU.s iiELLERii (Heck.). (Plate LXXXVII. figs. 2-0.)
This species varies considerably in coloration. Two varieties occur in the river
Chisoy — one with two yellowish green bands along the side, separated, and bordered
486 DR. aUNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
above and below by a blue band ; the second, witliout bands, has the body covered all
over with irregular black spots.
The figures are of the natural size. The specimens are from an affluent of the
Chisoy River, — fig. 4 representing an adult male of a variety, fig. 2 an adult female,
fig. 5 a male approaching to maturity, fig. o an adult female of a variety ; finally, tig. 6
represents a Mexican example, half-grown male.
266. GiR.\RDiNUS PLKUROsriLUS. (Plate TXXXVII. fig. 1.)
Giiuth. Fish. vi. p. 353.
D. S. A. 9. V. 6. L. lat. '28. L. transv. 8.
The height of the body is somewhat more than the length of the head, which is one-
fourth of the total (without caudal) ; the diameter of the eye is more than the length
of the snout, one-third of that of the head, and two-thirds of the width of the inter-
orbital space, Avhich is slightly concave. In the female the origin of the dorsal fin is in
the middle of the total length, and conspicuously behind that of the anal fin. Caudal
fin large, longer tlian the head, subtruncate behind ; the free portion of the tail is
somewhat elongate, the length of the base of tlie anal being one-third of its distance
from the caudal. Pectoral fin not quite as long as the head, and not extending as far
backwards as the ventral fins, which reach the vent.
In the male the origin of the dorsal is somewhat nearer the extremity of the caudal
than that of the snout ; the anal process is quite straight, nearly twice as long as the
head, and terminating in a simple tapering point. Caudal very short. Ifeddish olive ;
a series of six or seven round blackish spots, each about the size of the eye, runs along
the middle of the side, a black line along the base of the anal fin and the lower and
upper margins of the tail. Caudal fin with two indistinct dark cross bands.
Mr. Salvin has discovered this species in the Lake of Duenas. Females attain to a
length of 2 inches, males to half that size only.
267. SCLEROGXATIIUS MERIDIOXALIS.
Giinth. Fish. vii. p. 23.
D. 20-30. A. 10. L. lat. 38. L. transv. 1^/1^.
Mouth small, inferior, sliglitly corrugated. The lieight of the body is contained
thrice and one-half or thrice and one-fourth in the total length (without caudal), the
length of the head four times or four times and one-half. Head not much longer than
higl). Eye rather small, one- fifth of the length of the head, and two-thirds of that of
the snout. Suborbitals narrow. The anterior dorsal rays are not much produced,
being shorter than the head. Caudal fin forked. The origin of the ventral fin is
vertically below the fourth dorsal ray. Pectoral fin not extending to ventral. There
are five longitudinal series of scales between the lateral line and tlie root of the ventral.
DH. GiJNTllER OX THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 487
Coloration uniform. Pharyngeal teeth very numerous and small, increasing somewhat
in size downwards.
Four examj^les, from 9 to 10 inches long, were obtained by Mr. Salvin in the Kio
Usumacinta.
'271. Pristigaster macrors.
(iuiitli. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1800, p. G0.3 ; and Fisli. vii. \). IGl.
D" 1:5. A. 61. L. lat. 53.
Abdominal profile but slightly convex, the greatest depth of the body being one-third
of the total length (without caudal); the length of the head is contained four times and
two-thirds in the same length ; eye very large, its diameter being more than one-third
of the length of tiie head, and nearly equal to that of the postorbital portion of the
head. There are thirteen scales in the transverse series ascending from the origin of
the anal fin to that of the dorsal, four of the series being above the lateral line. Origin
of the dorsal fin midway between the root of the caudal and the scapula ; origin of tlie
anal nearer to the end of the snout than to the root of the caudal. A round black spot
on the scapula.
A specimen, 8 inches long, was found by Messrs. Dow and Salvin on the Pacific coast
of Panama.
272. PristktASTer dovii.
Pristigaster aryenteus, Giiiitli. Proc. Zool. Soc. 186G, p. 603 (not Cuv.).
dovii, Giiiith. Fish. vii. p. 4(51.
D. 11. A. 5(3. L. lat. 51.
Abdominal profile but slightly convex, the greatest depth of the body being two-
sevenths of the total length (without caudal) ; the length of the head is nearly one-fifth
of the same. Eye large, its diameter being two-sevenths of the length of the head, and
two-thirds of that of the postorbital portion of the liead. There are eleven or twelve
scales in the transverse series ascending from tlie origin of the anal fin to that of the
dorsal, four of the series being above the lateral line. Origin of the dorsal fin mucli
nearer to the root of the caudal than to the scapula; origin of the anal midway between
the end of the snout and the root of the caudal. Scapula with an indistinct blackish
spot.
A specimen, 8^ inches long, was found by Capt. Dow at Panama.
273. C'LUPKA LIBERTATIS.
Meletta liherlutis, (iiinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1866, p. 603.
Clupea libertatis, Gunth. Fish. vii. p. 433.
D. 17. A. I'J. L. lat. 48.
Closely allied to C. thrissa. The length of the head is contained tlirice and two-
488 DR. GUNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEKICA.
tliiids ill the total (without caudal), the heiglit of the body thrice and a half, 'llio
origin of the dorsal iiii is much nearer to the end of the snout than to the root of the
caudal. The dorsal filament does nol, extend on to the caudal. Uniform silvery, with-
out humeral spot.
A single example, 2^ inches long, was obtained by Messrs. Salvin and Dow at Libertad.
274. Chatoessus petenexsis.
Mek'tta peteiumsis, Giintli. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1866, p. 603.
('hatoessus petenensus, Giintli. Fisli. vii. p. 408.
D. 14-15. A. 20-23. L. lat. 40.
The length of the head is two-sevenths of the total (without caudal) ; the height of
the body is contained thrice or twice and three-fourths in the same. The origin of the
dorsal fin is nearer to the end of the snout than to the root of the caudal, and in advance
of the ventrals. The dorsal filament does not extend on to the caudal. A small black
round spot on the shoulder.
Four examples, from 3 to 4 inches long, were obtained by Mr. Salvin in liake Peten.
276. EXGKAULIS POEYI.
Kiier & Steindacliner, Abhaiidl. baycr. Akacl. x. p. 23, Taf. 3. fig. 3.
U. 16. A. 24. L. lat. 42.
The length of the head is nearly equal to the height of the body, which is two-ninths
of the total (without caudal); snout very short and rather obtuse; eye rather larger
than one-fourth of the length of the head. The origin of the dorsal fin is nearer to the
root of the caudal than to the end of the snout ; origin of the anal fin opposite to the
middle of the dorsal. Pectoral fin reaching a little beyond the root of the ventral.
Upper and lower jaws with small teeth.
Kio Bayano.
277. EXGRAI'LIS JfACROLEPIDOTA.
Kncr & Steinclachucr, /. c. p. 21, taf. 3. fig. 2.
B. 12-13. D. 12. A. 29. L. lat. 35. L. transv. 9.
The length of the head is two-sevenths of the total (without caudal), the height of
the body one-third. Snout pointed, very short. The diameter of the eye is one-fourth
(if the length of the head. The origin of the dorsal fin is a little nearer to the root of
the caudal than to the end of the snout ; origin of the anal fin immediately behind the
end of the dorsal. Maxillary edentulous, extending to the angle of the prseoperculum.
Rio Bavano.
DR. GtJNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AjMEEICA. 489
278. Cetexgraulis mtsticetus.
EngrauUs mysticetus, Gtinth. Proc. Zool. Soc. 1866, p. 604.
Ceteiigraulis mysticetus, Giiuth. Fish. vii. p. 383.
D. 17. A. 20. L. lat. 42. L. transv. 14.
Head exceedingly large, its length being contained twice and four-fifths in the total
(without caudal) ; the height of the body is contained thrice and two-thirds in the
same ; the depth of the head is two-thirds of its length ; snout compressed, pointed,
considerably shorter than the eye, the diameter of wliich is contained live times and a
half in the length of the head. The origin of the dorsal hn is nearer to the root of the
caudal than to the end of the snout ; origin of the anal somewhat in advance of the end
of the dorsal. Pectoral fin reaching a little beyond the root of the ventral. Scales
adlierent. Silvery, back greenish.
Three examples, the largest 6 inches long, were obtained by Messrs. Dow and Salvin
on the Pacific coast of Panama.
279. Car.\pus fasciatus (Pall.).
Two examples from the Rio Motagua are of a uniform brown coloration, but do not
differ structurally from South-American specimens.
284. Tetrodox politus (Gir.).
D. 8. A. 7.
Nasal cavity with a short, imperforated papilla. Body smooth, except in the inter-
pectoral region, which is provided with minute spines. Head as broad as high, its
greatest depth being equal to the distance between the gill-opening and the front
margin of the orbit. Eye rather nearer to the gill-opening than to the end of the
snout. Upper parts blackish brown, with numerous black dots ; belly and lower part
of the sides white. Dorsal and caudal fins brown ; axil of the pectoral blackish.
One specimen, 13 inches long, was obtained by Mr. Salvin at San Jose.
285. Tetrodon geometricus.
D. 8. A. 7.
Nasal cavity with a short, imperforated papilla. Body covered with minute spines,
except on the snout and tail. Belly pendent, very extensible. Head nearly as high
as broad, its depth being equal to its length without snout. The eye occupies the
middle of the length of the head. Upper parts blackish, with bluish transverse lines,
curved on the sides ; sides with some scattered black spots, lower parts white. Caudal
fin white in its basal, and black in its outer half; the other fins whitish.
One example, 3 inches long, was obtained by Messrs Dow and Salvin at Panama.
VOL. VI. PART Vll. 3 X
490 DR. GttNTHEE ON THE FISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
289. Balistes frenatus (Lacep.).
A specimen, 8 inches long, obtained by Capt. Dow at Gonzalez Island, differs in
being of a more uniform coloration, the yellow band on the head being but slightly
indicated.
292. Lepidosteus tropicus.
Atradosteiis tropicus, Gill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 172.
D. 10-11. A. 11. L. lat. 54. L. transv. 8/12.
The length of the head is nearly one-fourth of the total ; the widtli of the inter-
orbital space is two-fifths of the length of the snout, which equals the distance of the
front margin of the orbit from the fifth scale of the lateral line. The root of the
ventral fin is nearer to the base of the caudal than to the end of the snout.
Two examples, 18 inches long, were obtained by Mr. Salvin at Huamuchal.
293. MUSTELUS DORSALIS.
('rill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 186J., p. 149.
" Teeth unicuspid. The posterior angle of the first dorsal fin projects to the vertical
of the origin of the ventrals, although the anterior fourth of the base of the fin is above
the pectoral. The caudal fin equals the distance between the snout and third branchial
aperture ; and its terminal lobe nearly equals a third of the length, and is obliquely
truncated behind."
Panama.
295. Carcharias maculipinnis.
Isogomphodon maculipinnis, Poey, Repertor. Fis. Nat. Cub. 1865, p. 191.
This species belongs to the subgenus Prionodon. Teeth with the terminal portion
much constricted — the serrature being very fine, and only in a few distinct to the point ;
there are tweh e on each side of the upper jaw ; teeth of the lower jaw without any
denticulations. The length of the snout, from the front margin of the mouth, is not
much less than the width of the cleft of the mouth ; the latter very deep, forming
nearly a semicircular arch. The dorsal fin commences opposite to tlie inner posterior
angle of the pectoral ; pectoral pointed, not twice as broad as long. Coloration uniform
grey, tips of most of the fins black.
One example, 4 feet long, was obtained by Mr. Salvin at Chiapam ; the species was
first desci'ibed from a Cuban specimen.
297. RinxoBATfs leucorhyn'chus.
The anterior nasal valve is not prolonged to the inner angle of the nostril. Disk
longer than broad ; the pntnasal part of the snout is not so long as broad at the base,
but longer than the distance between the front extremities of the nostrils. Skin very
-i I
O
A N
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DR. GTOTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 4111
finely granular; a series of very small, distant, smooth, oblong tubercles along the
median line of the back. Nostrils longer than the space between their posterior
extremities, but shorter than the mouth. Upjier parts uniform ashy brown, the pr*-
ocular pai't of the snout yellowish white.
One male, 21 inches long, was obtained by Capt. Dow on the Pacific coast of Panama.
299. Urolophus mundus.
VrotrygoH mundus, Gill, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sc. Philad. 1863, p. 173.
Mr. (jill proposes the generic name of Urotrygon for U. tof})e(Unus and the present
species, the new genus being distinguished by the rounded and not angular outline, the
longer tail and posterior insertion of the spine, and especially the acute teeth. The
new species is thus characterized: —
The disk is orbicular, with a slight linguiform projection in front, and with the
pectoral fins behind broadly rounded. The cUstance of the snout from the hinder
margin of the pectorals equals the ■width of the disk. The tail (behind the anus) is
rather longer than the body (in front). The spine is inserted behind the middle of the
tail, and is about as long as the distance between the snout and the nostrils. The
ventral fins extend outwards, the rectilinear anterior margin tending little backwards ;
and the external margins are on a line with and complete the outline of the disk. The
posterior margin in the male is nearly rectilinear, while in the female it is slightly
convex, especially towards the inner angles. The upper velum is very sinuous and
fimbriated. The teeth are pointed and pyramidal. The spiracles are oval, interrupted
at the intero-anterior angle by the eyes ; and the margins are entire and well defined.
The skin is beset with numerous small stelliform tubercles, larger on the dorsal region.
The colour is a uniform dark brown above.
Two small specimens, male and female, were collected by Capt. Dow on the Pacific
coast of Central America.
300. Aetob.\tis l.^tirostris (A. Dura.).
This species was known from one very young example only, from the west coast of
Africa ; Messrs. Dow and Salvin have rediscovered it in the Bay of Panama. The
specimen, which to the root of the tail is 12 inches long, and has a tail of 44 inches,
does not difier in anything from the Atlantic example. I may remark here that the
soft rostral appendage is naturally bent upwards, like the nose-leaf of certain Chiroptera,
and is not horizontally stretched forward as represented by M. A. Dumeril.
492 DE. GtlNTHEE OX THE PISHES OF CENTEAL AMEEICA.
EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.
PLATE LXIII.
Map of the States of Central America, exhibiting localities mentioned in the paper.
The areas less than fifteen hundred feet above the sea-level are coloured green.
PLATE LXIV.
Fig. 1. Pnstijioma macracanthum. Fig. 2. Umhrina elongata., p. 425.
p. 416. Fig. 3. Conodon jjacifici, p. 417.
PLATE LXV.
Fig. 1. Centropristis macropoma, p. 409. Fig. 3. Chafodon hnmeralis, p. 419
Fig. 2. Hwmulon margaritifermn, p. 419.
PLATE LXVI.
Fig. 1. Ujyeneus tetrasjnlns, p. 420. Fig. 3. Pristipoma leuciscus, p. 416.
Fig. 2. Pseudojulis notospilus, p. 447.
PLATE LXVII.
Fig. 1. Corvina chrysoleuca, p. 427. Fig. 3. Plectropoma afrwn, p. 411.
Fii;'. 2. vermicularis, p. 427.
PLATE LXVIII.
Fii>. 1. Thahssophryne maculosa, p. 436. Fig. 2. Thalassophryne reticulata, p. 437.
PLATE LXIX.
Fig. 1. Cremnohates monophthahmis, Fig. 3. AntennaHus leoj>ardinus, p. 439.
p. 442. Fig. 4. Trachynotus fasciatus, p. 434.
Fig. 2. Clinus macrocephalus, p. 442.
PLATE LXX.
Fig. 1. Agonostoma microps, p. 444. Fig. 2. Agonosfoma nasutmn, p. 444.
PLATE LXXI.
Fig. 1. Heros cifrinelhis, p. 458. Fig. 2. Heros margaritifer, p. 450.
DR. GUNTHER OX THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA. 4!l?>
PLATE LXXII.
Fig. 1. Heros urophthalnms, p. 454. Fig. 3. Heron melaiturm, p. 450.
Fig. 2. Heron /onf/imanns, p. 453.
PLATE LXXIIL
Fig. 1. Heros .yiilurHs, p. 451. Fig. 8. Heron salvini, p. 460.
Fig. 2. Heros aureus, p. 455. Fig. 4. Heros dovii, p. 461.
PLATE LXXIV.
Fig. 1. Plnfi/fflossiis dispilus, p. 447. Fig. 4. Xeefroplvs nemntopus, p. 470.
Fig. 2. Heros multispinosus, p. 45-3. Fig. 5. Heros (/odmanni, p. 4GG.
Fig. 3. Heros niqrofnsriatus, p. 452.
PLATE LXXV.
Fig. 1. Heros h>hoehihis. p. 457. Fig. 2. Heros eri/f/irdiis. p. 457.
PLATE LXXVI.
Heros trimacnlatus, p. 461.
PLATE LXXVII.
Fig. 1. Heros nicaraf/uensis, p. 465. Fig. 3. Heros manat/uensis, p. 463.
Fig. 2. Heros mofaf/nensis, p. 462.
PLATE LXXVIII.
Fig. 1. Heros intermedius. p. 468. Fig. 3. Heros (/uftuhitus, p. 466.
Fig. 2. Heros irre(/u/rfris, p. 467.
PLATE LXXIX.
Fig. 1. Heros affinis, p. 455. Fig. 2. Petenin splendidn. p. 469.
PLATE LXXX'.
Fig. 1. Hemirhombus omlis, p. 472. Fig. 2. Cifharichthys spilopterus, p. 471.
PLATE LXXXI.
Fig. 1. Amiurus meridionalis, p. 473. Fig. 2. .FJurichthiis nuc/ialis. p. 476.
' The tiguR'S on this phito ought to li:ivt- hecii it-versi'd.
VOL. VI. — I'Airr VI 1. 3 y
494 DE. GitNTHER ON THE FISHES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
PL.\TE LXXXII.
Fig. 1. Chalcinopsis denteic, p. 478. Fig. 4. Anacyrtus guatemalensis, p. 479.
Fig. 2. Characodon lateralis, p. 480. Fig. 5. Haplochihis dovii, p. 481 .
Fig. 3. Gambusia nicaraguensis, p. 483.
PLATE LXXXIII.
Eococoetus callopterus, p. 479.
PLATE LXXXIV.
Fig. 1. Fundulus labialis, male, p. 481. Fig. 4. Fundulus guatemalensis, fem.,])AS2.
Fig. 2. Fundulus labialis, fern., p. 481. Fig. 5. Fundulus punetat us, male, p. 482.
Fig. 3. Funduhcs (/uatemalensis, male. Fig. 6. Fundulus pachi/cephalus, male,
p. 482. p. 483.
PLATE LXXXV.
Fig. 1. Heros angulifer, p. 469. Fig. 3. PS■».i^a3^^^^
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