Can otolith microstructure and elemental fingerprints elucidate the early life history stages of the gadoid southern blue whiting (Micromesistius australis australis)

•Investigations into otolith microstructure provide support for daily growth increment formation in M. a. australis.•Interpretation of otolith microstructure revealed the timing and duration of metamorphosis in juvenile M. a. australis.•Otolith chemistry reveals distinct chemical signatures for parts of the otolith formed at different ontogenetic stages.•Vertical shift of distribution of juveniles post-metamorphosis suggested through shifts in element:42Ca ratios.