Elemental signatures in otoliths of larval walleye pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) from the northeast Pacific Ocean

Abstract

The objectives of this study are to determine if larval walleye pollock from different geographic localities can be distinguished based on elemental signatures in their otoliths. By analyzing sagittal otoliths with both EPMA and laser ablation ICP-MS, we hoped to identify greater differences among locations than would have been possible by using either technique in isolation. If successful, the study may provide a powerful tool for determining stock structure and tracing migration pathways of walleye pollock in the north Pacific. These data could then be used by managers of one of the world's largest single species fisheries to direct the sustainable harvest of this considerable natural resource.