Investigating otolith mass asymmetry in four fish species from Antalya Bay, Mediterranean coast of Türkiye

Otolith weight (OWe) asymmetry plays a crucial role in the vestibular function of the inner ear, potentially affecting its performance. Typically, OWe asymmetry values range from −0.2 to +0.2 (−0.2 < X < +0.2). In this study, we collected 136 fish specimens from the Gulf of Antalya, located along the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, which included the species Nemipterus randalli, Boops boops, Scorpaena elongata, and Scorpaena notata. Our findings revealed that the level of OWe asymmetry in these four teleost species increases with the total length (TL) of the fish. Evaluating OWe asymmetry is essential for understanding its potential impact on larval settlement in this significant fishing region. The results also showed that N. randalli and B. boops exhibited lower levels of OWe asymmetry compared with S. elongata and S. notata. Environmental factors, which indirectly influence somatic growth and otolith formation, may explain the significant differences observed, as the species inhabit distinct environments.