Microstructure of Fish Otoliths

TLDR

Otolith microstructure analysis has gained many applications, yet few studies critically evaluate the assumptions underlying age and growth estimates or the influence of environmental factors. This review examines current applications and their assumptions, proposing future research directions. The authors propose a hypothesis that increment formation follows an endogenous circadian rhythm entrained by photoperiod but modulated by other cyclic environmental variables, challenging the assumption of constant increment frequency and proportional width to growth. They find that circadian‑driven increments (once per 24 h) differ from environmentally induced sub‑daily increments, with temperature fluctuations being a major source of error in otolith interpretation.

Abstract

Otolith microstructure examination has found an increasing number of applications in recent years. However, few workers have critically assessed the assumptions upon which the age and growth inferences are based or considered the potential for environmental modification of microstructural features. This paper reviews present applications and their assumptions and suggests future directions. Particular attention is given to the premises that the frequency of increment formation is constant and that the width of increments is proportional to fish growth. A hypothesis of increment formation is presented which appears consistent with the numerous and often conflicting studies reported to date. The presence of an endogenous circadian rhythm of increment formation is invoked, entrained by photoperiod, but susceptible to modification by other cyclic environmental variables. Increments formed as a result of the circadian rhythm (once per 24 h) may be induced by different processes than those induced through the action of environmental cues (often > 1 per 24 h), thus explaining apparent morphological differences in increment structure noted by some workers. Temperature fluctuations appear to be a primary source of subdaily increments and are a potential source of error in otolith interpretation.