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PICRC researcher Christina Muller Karanassos participated in a 4-day life history workshop at the University of Guam Marine Laboratory in late May 2024. The workshop, led by Dr. Brett Taylor, focused on analyzing and processing otoliths, which are used to determine the age and growth rate of fish.
Otoliths, commonly known as ear stones, are located inside the head of bony fish, behind the eyes and just below the brain. Otoliths allow fish to hear and sense vibrations in the water and help maintain balance so they can better orient themselves. Fisheries scientists examine otoliths and count the number of visible opaque bands, just as one would count the growth rings of a tree. This data helps scientists monitor, assess and manage fish stocks.
Through the workshop, Christina learned the importance of collecting otoliths and how to process, read and age the samples. This included how to cut the otoliths and mount the samples onto slides for analysis. She also learned how to use the data to estimate life history parameters, such as growth rate and the age at which the fish mature. These parameters can be used to help assess reef fish stocks and ultimately inform management.
Christina also had the opportunity to process 40 longnose emperor fish (melangmud) samples that were collected in Palau for an ongoing research project on the species. Christina hopes to continue analyzing the otoliths and gonads of the longnose emperor fish, and PICRC plans to collect samples of other reef fish species to better understand their life histories. Limited life history research has been conducted in Palau, which highlights the importance of collecting and analyzing these samples. “The knowledge gained at this workshop will be shared with members of the PICRC research team, and we recently purchased equipment to process our own samples,” said Christina.
The skills and knowledge Christina gained will aid in broader efforts to manage Palau’s reef fish populations. “Overall, the workshop was very beneficial and the hands-on experience gained will be very useful for us to process and analyze our own samples later at PICRC,” said Christina.
This opportunity is made possible by funding from the Galway Marine Institute and Irish Aid/FCO through the Our Shared Oceans Programme.
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