Name/Title
Atlantic? Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus)Entry/Object ID
2001.01.14Description
Taxidermy - Full specimen mount of fish
This fish, the Atlantic? Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus), is found along the western Atlantic coast, typically in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, although it has been reported as far north as Nova Scotia and as far south as Argentina, as well as on the Atlantic coast of southern France. One of the oldest living fish, they are considered great saltwater game fishes because of their size, spirit and spectacular leaping ability, but not prized for their flesh. As of 2021, the International Game Fish Association world record for the largest Atlantic tarpon caught weighed almost 130 kg.Context
The early members of the Union Club of British Columbia enjoyed the scenic splendours and the many opportunities for sports fishing and big game hunting across the province. Over time, the Club became noted for its outstanding collection of mounted taxidermy items. Of note, in 1910 the Club loaned its collection to the Dominion Government for international exhibition in Vienna (details unknown).
It appears that the mounted Wolf Eel (2001.01.100) may be the only survivor of the original early 20th century collection. For further detail - see Susan Mayse, "The Union Club of British Columbia - Our First 125 Years" (Victoria, B.C.: The Union Club of British Columbia, 2004):59, and Paul L. Bissley, "Early and Late Victorians: A History of the Union Club of British Columbia" (Sidney, B.C.: Review Printing and Publishing Co. Ltd., 1969). Both publications are available in the UCBC Library.Made/Created
Artist Information
Artist
UnknownRole
TaxidermistDate made
circa 1909Time Period
20th CenturyNotes
Stuffed and mounted 91.4 cm long Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus?) in glass front wood case with plaque. Body bowed with open tail (or caudal) fin, faces left with mouth open and teeth visible.Dimensions
Dimension Description
CaseHeight
91.4 cmWidth
213.4 cmAcquisition
Acquisition Method
GiftDate
1909Notes
Legacy collection
Plaque: Presented to the Union Club of BC by Mr. A. O'Reilly 1909