LIBER IX · CAPUT 27
FISHES WHICH FLY ABOVE THE WATER.—THE SEA-SWALLOW.—THE FISH THAT SHINES IN THE NIGHT.—THE HORNED FISH.—THE SEA-DRAGON
Latine · Mayhoff 1906
Volat sane perquam similis volucri hirundo, item miluus, subit in summa maria piscis ex argumento appellatus lucerna, linguaque ignea per os exerta tranquillis noctibus relucet. attollit e mari sesquipedanea fere cornua quae ab iis nomen traxit. rursus draco marinus, captus atque inmissus in harenam, cavernam sibi rostro mira celeritate excavat.
English · Bostock & Riley 1855–57
There is a fish that comes up to the surface of the sea, known, from the following circumstance, as the lantern-fish: thrusting from its mouth a tongue that shines like fire, it emits a most brilliant light on calm nights. Another fish, which, from its horns, has received its name, raises them nearly a foot and a half above the surface of the water. The sea-dragon, again, if caught and thrown on the sand, works out a hole for itself with its muzzle, with the most wonderful celerity.