1. Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
Catfish Otolith Removal
Peter C. Sakaris
Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
Auburn University

2. From the Top: Extend pectoral spines.
Cut 3-5 mm anterior to a line that connects the locked pectoral spines.
Glide forceps along each side of braincase until you feel the pocket in which the otolith is located.
Grasp and remove otoliths.
If you are unable to locate the otoliths use a wire cutter to remove the top of the skull. 

3. From the bottom: Cut isthmus.
Remove gills and scrape skin from otic capsule.
Cut otic capsule with wire cutters and break open.
Grasp and remove otoliths.

4. Base of dorsal spine

6. If the cut is placed correctly?
Two seconds to pull the otolith

7. Clean it,
Dry it,
And
Store it.

8. Don’t cut too far back!
Cut here.
Or you’ll be digging.