The Common Sole

Abstract

THIS handsome monograph is (passing over the “Journal”) the first-fruits of the Plymouth Laboratory. From the very outset, the Marine Biological Association has given a prominent place in its programme to economic matters. In the speeches at the foundation meeting, held on March 31, 1884, in the rooms of the Royal Society, and again on the occasion of the opening of the Laboratory at Plymouth, on June 30, 1888, the investigation of the habits and life-histories of important food-fishes, and other similar problems having a practical bearing upon fishing industries, was put forward as a primary function of the Association; and, in fact, the objects of the Association were officially stated to be “to promote accurate researches leading to the improvement of zoological and botanical science, and to an increase of our knowledge as regards the food, life-conditions, and habits of British food-fishes and molluscs.” In response to this declared intention of dealing with the practical applications, the Fishmongers' Company have given most valued support to the Association from the beginning, and have subscribed largely to the funds, while H.M. Treasury has added.£500 for five years to the annual income, on certain conditions.