Salmon Stock Identification Based on Elemental Composition of Vertebrae

The elemental chemical composition of salmon vertebrae has been measured by X-ray spectroscopy for two mixtures of stocks. Classification of fish to stock based on this composition has an accuracy in the range of 80–95%. Information on the techniques used, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and pattern recognition analysis, is presented for a reader with no background in these areas. The advantages and limitations of this method of stock identification are discussed.Key words: X-ray spectroscopy, pattern recognition analysis, stocks, salmon, management