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Timing of Increment Formation in Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus) Otoliths

Authors :
Enrique Rodriguez-Marin
Dheeraj Busawon
Patricia L. Luque
Isabel Castillo
Nathan Stewart
Kyne Krusic-Golub
Aida Parejo
Alex Hanke
Source :
Fishes, Vol 7, Iss 5, p 227 (2022)
Publication Year :
2022
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2022.

Abstract

Controversies remain regarding the periodicity, or seasonality, of otolith growth band formation, which directly influences a correct age determination of Atlantic bluefin tuna using this structure. The aim of this work was to apply marginal increment analysis and marginal edge analysis to determine the timing of band deposition. The index of completion was analyzed using general additive models to evaluate the importance of variables, such as month, age/size, and reader. Results indicate that the opaque band formation begins in June and is completed by the end of November. From the end of the year to the beginning of the following year, there is minimal marginal edge growth as the translucent band begins to form. The translucent zone then reaches a maximum development in May. The results obtained in this study provide evidence that the annulus formation in the otoliths of Atlantic bluefin tuna are completed later in the calendar year than previously thought. This would mean it is necessary to delay the date of the current July 1st adjustment criterion to November 30.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
24103888
Volume :
7
Issue :
5
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Fishes
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.26c58c20ea3f4ed295ff15e9094cd135
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes7050227