Age estimation for bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) using aspartic acid racemisation with enhanced hydrolysis and derivatisation procedures

Accurate determination of the ages individual whales is key to developing effective conservation strategies for bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus). Previous attempts develop reliable methods age this species have included using body length and baleen measurements, carbon cycling analysis, assessments corpora accumulation, aspartic acid racemisation (AAR; conversion L D enantiomers) measurements. Each these has its limitations. The primary objective study was improve AAR analysis technique determining in order obtain consistent, reproducible results D/L ratios estimated ages. Using a modified method, lenses from 68 were analysed estimated. A comparison previous ageing by counting or 11 showed smaller standard errors analyses. applied increase precision measurements provide improved results.