Volume 39, Plate XIII / Ichthyology (Fish)

Cornish Sucker & Lump Sucker

Lepadogaster Cornubiensis & Cyclopterus lumpus

1. Cornish Sucker. A small species seldom exceeding two and a half inches, the Cornish Sucker occurs in greatest plenty on the coast of Cornwall, though noticed also in Scotland and Ireland. Frequently spotted, with two large ocellated marks behind the eyes that are absent in the young, it is usually found about low-water mark adhering to stones, spawns in March, and feeds on minute crustaceous and other marine animals.
2. The Lump Sucker. Attaining a foot and a half or more, the Lump Sucker is massive and clumsy, with a sharp ridge along the back giving the name Cock-paidle, the male much smaller and turning bright red at breeding. It spawns in March or April among rocks and seaweed, the male guarding the ova and carrying off the young upon his back, and it feeds chiefly on small fish, having great adhesive power and soft, rich, oily flesh.