Shape Analysis of Otoliths of the Round goby, Neogobius melanostomus (Gobiiformes, Gobiidae), from the Black Sea Basin

The aim of this study was to assess the discriminability stocks round goby Neogobius melanostomus based on shape its otoliths. Recent otolith-shape-based species and stock discrimination studies were using otolith contours in sagittal plane we are following approach. We hypothesized possibility existence several geographically separated populations goby. Round gobies have been sampled from different locations North-Western Black Sea, otoliths removed course full biological analysis photographed plane. Principal components contour processed by linear discriminant aiming cross-validate placed at geographical locations. This would allow demonstration or populations. research allows conclude limited applicability for multiple annual samples. However, neither classification matrices nor cluster dendrograms showed a single pattern except high year variability. hypothesise strong response formation habitat feeding conditions. assumption needs be verified further studies.