Volume 37, Plate VIII / Ichthyology (Fish)

Braize or Becker & Gilt-Head

Pagrus vulgaris & Chrysophrys aurata

1. The Gilt-Head. Readily known by a crescent-shaped golden band between the eyes and by five rows of molar teeth above and three below, this Mediterranean and Atlantic fish is a rare visitor here, reaching about fifteen inches. Deep blackish blue above with yellowish golden sides and bluish belly, marked with golden preopercle and violet opercle, it feeds on shellfish, excavating sand with its tail; its flesh is delicate though somewhat dry, and is often pickled.
2. The Braize or Becker. Distinguished among the Breams by small eyes, a lateral line bent at origin, and pectorals without a black spot, this fish is common in Southern Europe but rare on British shores, caught in deep water with mussel-baited hooks. Reaching twenty inches and upwards, it is blue-silver above, bright silver on the flanks, with vermillion-tinged belly and rose-red dorsal and caudal fins, feeds on shellfish and small fishes, and is much esteemed for the table.