Shape indices to identify regional differences in otolith morphology of comber, Serranus cabrilla (L., 1758)

Sagittal otoliths from the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions of Serranus cabrilla L. were compared using shape indices (form-factor, roundness, circularity, rectangularity, ellipticity and eccentricity). Regional differences were best described by form-factor, circularity and eccentricity variables. The canonical discriminant functions were built with form-factor or rectangularity indices. The results indicated slight regional variations. The G -test was the criterion more useful to identify the otolith origin in the discriminant analysis.