thumbnail

Otolith research for Puget Sound

Fact Sheet 2007-3042
By:  and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20073042

Links

Abstract

Otoliths are hard structures located in the brain cavity of fish. These structures are formed by a buildup of calcium carbonate within a gelatinous matrix that produces light and dark bands similar to the growth rings in trees. The width of the bands corresponds to environmental factors such as temperature and food availability. As juvenile salmon encounter different environments in their migration to sea, they produce growth increments of varying widths and visible 'checks' corresponding to times of stress or change. The resulting pattern of band variations and check marks leave a record of fish growth and residence time in each habitat type. This information helps Puget Sound restoration by determining the importance of different habitats for the optimal health and management of different salmon populations. The USGS Western Fisheries Research Center (WFRC) provides otolith research findings directly to resource managers who put this information to work.

Suggested Citation

Larsen, K., and Reisenbichler, R., 2007, Otolith research for Puget Sound: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 2007-3042, 2 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20073042.

ISSN: 2327-6932 (online)

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Otolith research for Puget Sound
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 2007-3042
DOI 10.3133/fs20073042
Year Published 2007
Language ENGLISH
Publisher Geological Survey (U.S.)
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Western Fisheries Research Center
Description 2 p.
Country United States
State Washington
Other Geospatial Puget Sound
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Additional publication details