Accuracy of Moose Age Determinations from Incisor Cementum Layers
Gasaway WC, Harkness DB, Rausch RA. 1978. Accuracy of Moose Age Determinations from Incisor Cementum Layers. The Journal of Wildlife Management. 42(3):558-563
Incisors from 68 known-age moose (Alces alces) were sectioned and the ages of the animals estimated from cementum layers. Mean age determined in this manner overestimated true age by 0.5 yr with errors ranging between minus 1 and plus 3 yr. Cross sections were preferred to longitudinal sections. The major error resulted from difficulties in distinguishing discrete cementum layers. Other sources of error are discussed and the annual sequence of cementum deposition is described.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Gasaway, William; Harkness, David; Rausch, Robert
- Units
- CAKN , DENA , WRST , YUCH
- Keywords
- aging, Alces alces, Mammals, Population Trends, Ungulates