(pdf - 2484 kb)
Karen Dwyer
Abstract
This is a technical manual describing the methods and intrepretation used for determing age in yellowtail flounder (Limanda ferruginea). The paper gives a general overview of age determination, and discusses how age is presently estimated for yellowtail flounder at the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre, St. John's, Newfoundland. The structure of the whole otolith is discussed, along with the limiting factors and constraints in the ageing of yellowtail flounder using this structure. Detailed information on the thin-sectioning method is given and how it is applied to the ageing of yellowtail flounder. The manual provides information on the types of validation studies that are used to ensure accuracy of ageing, and attempts to provide procedures for troubleshooting any difficult aspects of ageing. This manual contains a glossary and high quality photographs and diagrams to assist users when ageing yellowtail flounder.