The Eye Lens Weight Technique in Aging of the Atlantic Croaker, Micropogon undulatus

Abstract

The eye lens weight to age relationship was examined in croaker, Micropogon undulatus. Lenses were removed, fixed, and weighed using standard techniques. Age estimates were assigned based on total length measurements. Lens weight showed good correlation with total length. Age could be estimated by eye lens weight, but no more accurately or precisely than with length frequency analysis. Cumulative percent frequency analysis of lens weights showed distinct inflections in the curve, which correspond to hypothesized length at age points. The data seem to verify age structure based on length frequency analysis.