Validation of annual growth bands in the otolith of tropical parrotfishes (Scarus schlegeli Bleeker)

The otoliths of the scarid Scarus schlegeli (Bleeker) from the Lizard Island on the northern Great Barrier Reef showed a series of clear periodic bands. The rate at which bands are deposited on the otoliths was distinguished by mark-recapture experiments using tetracycline and marginal increment analysis. Mark-recapture experiments were carried out both in the field and in a large aquarium system. One otolith band was deposited during the liberty periods of July 1990 to April and September 1991 while two similar bands were formed from November 1989 to February 1991. The marginal increment analysis indicated that annual bands were formed around the austral summer. Scales also displayed regular period check marks. These provided relatively reliable aging estimates for the younger fishes up to 5 years.