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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Characterization Of Multi-layered Fish Scales (Atractosteus spatula) Using Nanoindentation, X-ray CT, FTIR, and SEM
Published on: July 10, 2014
Should a Dorsal or Anal Scale Be Used for Microcharacteristics Analysis in Coreius guichenoti?
Fengling Zhang1, Yang Chen1, Weijie Cui1
1College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing 400175, China.
None:
Fish scales are increasingly used as non-lethal alternatives to otoliths for reconstructing fish life histories. However, spatial variations in scale characteristics across the fish body remain poorly understood. This study compared the morphology and microchemistry (Mg, Ca, Sr, Mn, and Ba) of anal and dorsal scales in Coreius guichenoti using elliptic Fourier analysis (EFA) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). EFA revealed distinct morphological differences: dorsal scales were broader anteriorly and more tapered posteriorly than anal scales. Microchemically, while Ca and Mg predominated in both types, significant differences were observed in Mn/Ca (p = 0.0007) and Mg/Ca (p = 0.017) ratios. Principal component analysis (PCA) suggested a trend of clear separation between the two scale regions based on their elemental signatures. Notably, dorsal scales exhibited higher elemental consistency and lower intra-group variability. These results suggest that dorsal scales may be more suitable for standardized sampling. Prioritizing the dorsal region will minimize sampling bias and enhance the reliability of non-lethal microchemical studies in fisheries research.
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