Unmasking pipefish otolith using synchrotron-based scanning X-ray fluorescence.

ABSTRACT: Scientists use otoliths to trace fish life history, especially fish migrations. Otoliths incorporate signatures of individual growth and environmental use. For many species, distinct increment patterns in the otolith are difficult to discern; thus, questions remain about crucial life history information. To unravel the history of such species, we use synchrotron-based scanning X-ray fluorescence. It allows the mapping of elements on the entire otolith at a high spatial resolution. It gives access to precise fish migration history by tagging landmark signature for environmental transition and it also characterises localised growth processes at a mineral level. Freshwater pipefish, which are of conservation concern, have otoliths that are small and fragile. Growth increments are impossible t

SUBMITTER: Hay V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10036667 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature