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case of danger, the young ones also are sucked into the mouth and
protected. When the danger is over, they are thrown out. Being a very
prolific breeder and adaptable in different ways, it pervades different
waters especially in coastal areas and is likely to be a pest when stunted in
growth.
(23) ORANGE CHROMIDE
Another Chichlid found in Maharashtra is Etroplus maculatus. It has been
introduced from Andhra waters (Sunkesula). It is a small 8 cm. fish not
very useful as food fish, but is popular as an aquarium fish under the name
'Orange chromide'. Local fishermen call it 'Thikree.' It is commonly met
with in the fresh and estuarine waters around Bombay.
(24) GOLD FISH
Many are familiar with Gold fish, Carassius carassius, occurring in garden
ponds and aquarium tanks. It is not a native of India but has been
introduced from China and Japan several decades ago. Being of an
attractive scarlet red colour and capable of thriving on variety of foods and
climatic conditions, the fish has spread the world over and is considerably
domesticated. In Maharashtra also, it is often seen in garden ponds and
tanks in the compounds of mosques where they are fondly fed on bread
and other articles of food. Its original colour was simple olive green but
being easily bred, several colour varieties have been obtained by selective
breeding over centuries. It is always popular as an ornamental fish.
FAUNA 169