A Protocol for Aging Anurans Using Skeletochronology

Open-File Report 2008-1209
By: , and 

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Abstract

Age distribution information can be an important part of understanding the biology of any population. Age estimates collected from the annual growth rings found in tooth and bone cross sections, often referred to as Lines of Arrested Growth (LAGs), have been used in the study of various animals. In this manual, we describe in detail all necessary steps required to obtain estimates of age from anuran bone cross sections via skeletochronological assessment. We include comprehensive descriptions of how to fix and decalcify toe specimens (phalanges), process a phalange prior to embedding, embed the phalange in paraffin, section the phalange using a microtome, stain and mount the cross sections of the phalange and read the LAGs to obtain age estimates.
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title A Protocol for Aging Anurans Using Skeletochronology
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2008-1209
DOI 10.3133/ofr20081209
Edition -
Year Published 2008
Language ENGLISH
Publisher Geological Survey (U.S.)
Contributing office(s) Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
Description iv, 38 p.
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