Otoliths are calcareous structures in the inner ear of teleost fishes that function in balance and hearing while also serving as important biological records. This article highlights their morphological and chemical properties and their growing applications in fisheries science, ecological studies, and the Indian market. Species-specific otolith morphology aids in fish identification and stock differentiation, supporting sustainable fisheries management. Chemical signatures, including stable isotopes and elemental composition, provide insights into fish age, migration patterns, habitat use, and environmental history, making them valuable for stock assessment and monitoring environmental change. Beyond scientific applications, otoliths are also used in certain culinary practices in India, reflecting traditional whole-fish utilization and waste reduction, although their nutritional potential remains largely unexplored. Overall, otoliths represent an important multidisciplinary resource with ecological, managerial, and cultural significance in supporting sustainable fisheries and livelihoods.