A method for preparing sections of large numbers of otoliths embedded in black polyester resin

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Abstract
A process is described in which otoliths are carefully positioned in rows in specially prepared moulds which are then filled with liquid black polyester resin. The resin hardens to form solid rectangular blocks with the otoliths embedded in them. The blocks are removed from the moulds and machined with a high-speed diamond saw. Thin slices are cut from the blocks precisely along the lines of the centres of the rows of otoliths. The slices are mounted and fixed onstandard glass microscope slides. The otolith sections are then ready for reading. Up to 90 otoliths at a time may be processed in a single mould and the technique of positioning them is described. The setting up and machining of the blocks of polyester is also described as are the machine, moulds, and materials used. Comments are made on the extended range of possibilities for viewing the otolith sections produced by the method.

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