Precision and Bias of Three Bigmouth Buffalo Aging Structures

Bigmouth Buffalo Ictiobus cyprinellus is a long-lived Catostomid with ecological and commercial harvest value. Management for relies on accurate age data population dynamic assessments (recruitment, growth, mortality) but between-reader precision of non-lethal aging structures compared to otoliths has not been assessed. We analyzed bias ages estimated from pectoral dorsal fin rays relative lapillus (n = 115) captured shallow, natural Iowa lakes. Maximum agreed was 21 years otoliths, 15 rays, 14 rays. Ages were the most precise (CV 12.6%, APE 8.9%) followed by 16.1%, 11.4%) 21.5%, 16.5%). Pectoral also had higher reader agreement (37%) within 1 year (77%) (35% exact, 69% year) (17% 61% year). Both underestimated which resulted in younger larger mean length at estimates. Our results suggest biologists can use as viable structure fish (up 10 13 rays) whereas be difficult are necessary accurately older individuals.