Download FAR 2014/08 Attempted validation of the first annual growth zone in kingfish (Seriola lalandi) otoliths

We attempted to define the location of the first annual growth zone in kingfish otoliths in order to accurately age kingfish. Length data and otolith increment counts from juvenile kingfish sampled from the wild, and from known-age, hatchery-reared kingfish, were analysed. Results were inconclusive but we suggest that kingfish ageing studies assume that the first growth zone is formed during autumn–winter of the second year, at an age of approximately 18 months.