Yu Shou Shi (Fish Head Stone) (Triangular granules, magnetic white, obvious circular joint marks)
【Name】
【Source】
Kai Bao‧Shi Shou Yu (Kai Bao Materia Medica‧Argosomus nibe)
【Common Use Level】
F
【Origin】
The otoliths in the skull of *Pseudosciaena crocea* (Rich.) or *Pseudosciaena manchurica* (Rich.) belonging to the family Sciaenidae.
【Characteristics】
They are elongated oval-shaped granules with three edges. The otoliths of *Pseudosciaena crocea* are 1.5-2cm long and 0.8-1.8cm wide. The otoliths of *Pseudosciaena manchurica* are smaller, 1-1.2cm long and 5-7mm wide. They are wide in the middle, with one end slightly round and the other end pointed. The entire otolith is magnetic white. The joint surface is relatively flat, and obvious circular joint marks can be seen on the surface. The other side is raised to one side, and there is an oblique groove near the pointed end, with several transverse protrusions. Fine, long lines, representing growth lines, can be seen below the raised side. The texture is hard and not easily broken. It has a slight odor and a slightly astringent taste.
【Identification】
The best ones are those that are pure white, hard, and free of impurities.
【Chapter】
Vertebrate Class