Meeting Abstract

P2-111   -   Otoliths through time: a multidecadal characterization of fish otoliths in a changing climate Waldron, JM*; Wingender, B; Carroll, J; Bottom, B; Habegger, ML; University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL; University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL; Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, St. Petersburg, FL; Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, St. Petersburg, FL; University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL n01453622@unf.edu

Otoliths are calcium carbonate biomineralized stones in the inner ears of fish that play a vital role in auditory perception and vestibular function. Fish otoliths are versatile structures in science because their unique development and growth patterns allow researchers to answer a variety of questions in numerous fields. However, there is limited data that describes how widespread environmental changes in marine ecosystems, such as ocean acidification and rising temperatures, affect wild fish otoliths. This knowledge gap limits our ability to understand the potential impacts that alterations to otoliths can have on fish physiology and ecology. This study aims to trace potential changes in wild, adult fish otoliths over a large timescale among several species common in Florida’s coastal marine habitats – red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), gag grouper (Mycteroperca microlepis), and common snook (Centropomus undecimalis). Morphometrics, materials science techniques, and biomechanical methods will be used to characterize otolith morphology, microstructure, composition, and mechanical properties. Preliminary results show changes in otolith morphology over time, and chemical changes are also hypothesized to be present. Although the physiological and ecological consequences of changes in the above-mentioned variables in otoliths are not fully understood, some studies suggest that they can impact otolith function. Results and possible implications of this research will be further discussed within an ecological context.