Abstract
This study aimed to verify variations in the form of the sagitta otolith of Menticirrhus americanus as to their ontogeny, sex and stage of such structure. Ontogenetically were found significant differences (p < 0.05) for all shape indices (aspect ratios, shape factor, rectangularity, ellipticity, relative surface of sulcus acusticus) and also in the wavelet of the otolith. The CVA presented a 98.6% correct reclassification of the otolith between interval class. Sexual variations were found in the wavelet and in the relative surface of sulcus acusticus index. Between adult females and young females, differences were not detected in the wavelet and rectangularity, but significant differences were found in all other shape indices. The CVA presented a 79.6% correct reclassification of the otolith of the sexes and stages of life sampled. Young females and adults females showed highest correct percentage of classification. The results of this study demonstrate for the first time the influence of the ontogenetic variation and sexual in the form of the otoliths.
Highlights
Otoliths are calcium carbonate precipitated primarily as aragonite structures
The results of this study demonstrate for the first time the influence of the ontogenetic variation and sexual in the form of the otoliths
A total of 291 specimens of M. americanus (TL range: 120 and 345 mm; TW range: 15.33 and 291 g) were analyzed, which were distributed in five length class intervals to describe the ontogeny (Fig. 4)
Summary
Present in the inner ear in three pairs: sagittae, asteriscus and lapillus (Popper et al, 2005). Their morphological patterns make them an important tool (Volpedo & Echeverría, 2000; Volpedo et al, 2017). Otoliths have interspecific patterns among species, some morphological changes may occur influenced by various physiological or external factors (Volpedo & Echeverría, 1999).
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