ABSTRACT: Growth and migrations of Arctic charr from a Norwegian Arctic lake system were examined using structural and chemical characteristics of their otoliths as indicators of physiological and habitat characteristics. Measurements of otolith strontium/calcium concentration ratios by wavelength dispersive electron microprobe clearly revealed salinity migrations and provided a life history profile for individual fish. There was wide range in the age at first seaward migration (4 to 13 yr; mean 6.7 yr). Sr/Ca concentration data were also used to determine that a few migratory charr occasionally abstained from seasonal migrations. Microchemical techniques are an innovative approach to life history analysis when used in combination with structural analyses of otoliths from migratory fish.

KEY WORDS: Strontium . Anadromy . Norway . Spitsbergen . Electron microprobe . Life history

Published in MEPS Vol. 136 (1996) on June 6
ISSN: 0171-8630. Copyright © Inter-Research, Oldendorf/Luhe, 1996