otolith
1
9.8
- noun
- /ˈoʊtəˌlɪθ/
- Specialized
:
otolito
- Age composition was determined by means of age-length keys obtained by analyzing otoliths taken from fish sampled randomly from most catches.
- otoliths in fish
- otolith ring
Examples
-
Sacular otoliths were obtained from Pacific grenadier for age determination.
Academic text (1990) -
The daily rings formed in the otolith carry a signal of where they were formed.
Academic text (2008) -
The latter approach may be more suitable, particularly since more age and growth data are available from ongoing otolith studies.
Academic text (1993) -
The otolith (cross-section inset in lower left) therefore has a permanent chemical record of the larval journey.
Academic text (2008) -
Bony structures such as ear bones (otoliths) in fish can carry a record of the travels of larvae as they drift in ocean currents.
Academic text (2008) -
Scientists can estimate a fish's age by examining the growth rings in its otolith.
-
The otolith helps the fish maintain balance in the water and detect sound vibrations.
-
By analyzing the otolith, researchers can identify the species of the fish and its lifespan.
Compounds
- Specialized
A part of the inner ear that senses gravity and straight head movement
Surface Forms
Morphology
otolith = oto + lith
Formed from Greek combining forms 'oto-' (ear) and '-lith' (stone) that are not standalone English words, so learners cannot readily infer meaning from the components.
Etymology
Otolith comes from Greek parts oto- 'ear' and -lith 'stone', so it means 'ear stone'. These small stones sit in a fish's inner ear to help balance, and because they form layers like a tree scientists can read those layers to tell the fish's age and where it has been.