8 May 2026

Development of a Trace Element Signature Library Across a Large Watershed for Assessing Large-Scale Fish Movement Patterns

Abstract: Using trace element or stable isotope analysis has proven to be an effective means to characterize early life history and large-scale movement patterns in fishes. Target species are assessed for analyte concentrations occurring in calcified hard structures and compared to signatures noted from associated watersheds. However, this approach assumes analyte absorption occurs in proportion to their availability, and success relies heavily on the ability to identify unique water chemistry signatures between neighboring watersheds within a defined study area. Our objective was to establish a trace element signature profile for major tributaries occurring within the Mississippi River Valley (MRV). Water samples were obtained from 49 stations and evaluated for the presence and relative concentration of Ba, Sr, Ca, Fe, and Li. Analyte concentrations (milligrams per liter) varied across the sampled stations, although Li occurred at only four stations, primarily in the upper reaches of the MRV, and provided little discriminatory use. Concentrations of Fe and Ca depicted an inverse relationship, with Ca having higher concentrations in the upper third of the MRV while Fe typically had higher concentrations in the lower third. Ratios of Ba:Ca and Sr:Ca (millimole per mole) exhibited the greatest utility for delineating river-specific or reach-specific signatures.

3 Feb 2020

Matrix andPUBLICATION NOTICE: Target Particle-Size Effects on LIBS Analysis of Soils

 Link: http://dx.doi.org/10.21079/11681/35374 Report Number: ERDC/CRREL TR-20-1Title: Matrix and Target Particle-Size Effects on LIBS Analysis of Soils By Samuel A. Beal, Ashley M. Mossell, and Jay L. Clausen Approved for Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited January 2020 ABSTRACT:  Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a rapid,