Thumbprints - Barracuda Fish Scale
   


Optical 1
Optical 2
Optical 3


Optical 4


Optical 5 		 
   

SEM 1
SEM 2
SEM 3


SEM 4
SEM 5		  



As a fish grows, its scales develop rings, much like those found in trees.  These rings can determine the age of the fish.  In the summer the rings grow faster and have wider separations, while in winter, the rings grow slower with narrower separations.  Each pair of rings indicate one year.

For more info, check out:
      http://www.nefsc.nmfs.gov/faq/fishfaq1a.html

T.J. Garza