Validation of Annulus Formation in Golden Shiner Otoliths

Abstract

Abstract Golden Shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas is found in many lakes and ponds across the southeastern United States. Though it is a common species, otolith age validation methods have not been published. The objective of this study was to confirm annulus formation in lapillar otoliths of Golden Shiners collected monthly from September 2015 through August 2016 in Lake Jackson, Florida (Leon County). We collected at least 12 individuals each month of similar length (168–249 mm; presumably of the same cohort) to document annulus formation throughout the year. We sacrificed a total of 177 individuals from the 2013 year class, and we used their lapillar otoliths for marginal incremental analysis to calculate an index of completion and validate annulus formation. The monthly index of completion was highest from January through March and lowest in May and June, indicating that annuli were deposited once per year and confirming that lapillar otoliths are a valid age estimation structure for Golden Shiners.