Abstract
The age of the purpleback flying squid (Sthenoteuthis oualaniensis) has been widely studied over its geographic range based on hard structure analysis, especially the statolith. In this study, we propose an additional method for estimating the age of S. oualaniensis using growth increments in the gladius. Our results show regular growth increments in the proostracum dorsal surface and stem cross-sections. Linear regression analysis of the relationship between statolith and gladius readings showed the formation of increments in stem cross-sections to be daily, assuming that the formation of increments is daily in statoliths. A progressively more faint microstructure in the half-posterior part of the gladius possibly explains why the number of growth increments in the proostracum dorsal surface is less than the statolith-determined age. The low average percentage error and coefficient of variation indicate that our modified processing and counting methods are reliable. We believe that using growth increments in the gladius stem cross-section is a feasible alternative tool for determining the age of S. oualaniensis, whereas using growth increments in the proostracum dorsal surface is more informative for reconstructing ontogenetic life history.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
