Remarks.—We have obtained only two individuals of this large species, both of which were exposed for sale in the Honolulu fish-market. The colors, which are no doubt considerably changed, were taken from the dead fish.
Chironectes Cuv. 1817.
C. niger, Garrett.
D. 3-12; A. 6; V. 5; P. 10; C. 1, 7. 1.
The head constitutes about one-third of the total length, caudal excluded. The eyes are elliptically-oval, and inserted just once their greatest diameter distant from the margin of the upper jaw. The skin is covered with fine closely set prickly asperities, which gives it a velvety appearance. The general outline is ovate, and the greatest thickness equals one-sixth of the entire length. A range of conspicuous pores commences on the upper part of the gill covers, curving downward and upward to the symphysis of the lower jaw. Another row follows the margin of the upper jaw, passing over the snout, where it branches off posteriorly, curving over the eye and disappearing on the posterior portion of the body. Each pore is encircled with brush-like appendages, which gives them a tufted appearance. The dorsal fin extends over a base equal to one-third the length of the fish. Its upper margin is arched, and its height as compared to length is as one to two. The height and length of the anal fin are about equal.
Color deep black and obsoletely maculated with rather small roundish darker spots. On the basal portion of the dorsal and anal fins may be observed two large ocellations, with deep black pupils and paler areolae. Very minute opaque white points may also be seen scattered along the lower parts. Eyes blackish.
Length, 3½ inches.
Habitat, Sandwich Islands.
Remarks.—This species possesses the nasal tufted bristle and two horn-like processes that we observe in all the species inhabiting these seas. When handled it emits a most disagreeable odor.
Dr. J. G. Cooper presented the following paper: