Rhythmic structural and chemical patterns in otoliths of the antarctic fish Notothenia larseni: their application to age determination

Sagittal otoliths from Notothenia larseni contain microincremental growth rings which are distinctly visible in otolith sections using scanning electron microscopy. These microincrements are similar to those deposited daily in the otoliths of fishes from temperate and tropical waters. Microstructural and chemical analysis of otoliths demonstrate great potential in helping to answer many questions about the growth processes and ecology of Antarctic fishes.