Otolith phenotypic analysis for the endemic Anatolian fish species, Caucasian bleak <i>Alburnus escherichii</i> Steindachner, 1897 (Teleostei, Leuciscidae), from Selevir Reservoir, Akarçay Basin, Turkey

Abstract Otolith phenotypic variability was analyzed in the Caucasian bleak ( Alburnus escherichii ) from Selevir Reservoir Turkey. Utricular (lapillus) and lagenar (asteriscus) otoliths were removed, while distinguishing between left right otoliths. All photographed on distal (for asterisci) dorsal surface lapilli) using a Leica DF295 digital camera. morphometrics measured to nearest 0.001 mm Imaging Software. Linear nonlinear (power) models applied determine relationships otolith measurements total length of fish individuals. Two classes (Class I: 6.7–10.9 cm L t ; Class II: 11.0–15.0 established analyze shape The Form Factor, Circularity, Roundness, Rectangularity, Aspect Ratio Ellipticity used A standardized model remove effect size measurements. Multivariate analysis performed detect differences variation. results discriminant function showed that 79.9% A. specimens correctly classified by classes. In this study, intraspecific variation asteriscus lapillus is reported for first time. study provide comprehensive data relationship bleak.