Methods

The following pages deal in detail with some of the methods used for the preparation, examination and analysis of otoliths for use in daily and yearly ageing, as well as elemental and radiocarbon analysis. For methods dealing with the age interpretation of skates and rays or sharks, visit our sister sites.

The intention of placing these pages on the web is to provide the learning information and technical tips required to allow those learning or using otolith techniques to do so with this site alone. The information is designed primarily for workers undertaking these applications for the first time, but the methods described are those used by experienced workers.

Instruction Videos

Otolith microstructure

Otolith annuli

Elemental and isotopic assays