Otolith research for Puget Sound
Fact Sheet
2007-3042
By: K. Larsen and R. Reisenbichler
Links
- Document: Report (pdf)
- Download citation as: RIS | Dublin Core
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.
| 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 |
| Edition | - |
| 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 |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |