P. H. GOSSE, _del._ LEIGHTON, BROS.
CORKWING WRASSE.
]
The Corkwing belongs to the great Wrasse family; which, though it
chiefly develops itself in the tropical seas, is yet well represented
in our own. Yarrell has figured thirteen species, all of them found
on our south-western shores, and a few of them ranging to the north
as well. The entire family is remarkable for its bright and gorgeous
hues, often taking the form of bands, stripes and spots, well defined,
and in vivid contrasts. This little species, which extends to the
length of five inches, but is much more commonly taken not more than
half that size, is of a rich emerald-green hue, lighter beneath, and
generally marked with a conspicuous black spot on each side of the base
of the tail. Small individuals are frequently found, of a dark reddish
brown, arranged in a minute tesselated pattern on a pale ground; and
occasionally of a rich golden bronzed hue. The eyes are usually of the
finest vermilion.