Comparative otolith analysis reveals extended longevity beyond 70 years in Pacific ocean perch, indicating that rockfish species live substantially longer than previously estimated.
Key Points
To evaluate the validity of otolith surface versus section age determination methods and reassess the maximum longevity of Pacific ocean perch (Sebastes alutus).
Compared age estimates derived from otolith surfaces against thin cross-sections.
Evaluated growth annuli near the nucleus using thin sections and the break-and-burn technique in Pacific ocean perch and related rockfishes (Sebastes flavidus and Sebastes brevispinis).
Surface- and section-derived age estimates showed agreement up to an age of 22–24 years.
Otolith section growth patterns demonstrated that Pacific ocean perch can reach ages greater than 70 years.
Related rockfish species exhibited section ages ranging from 30 to 60 years.