Marine biominerals preserve elemental records that support paleoenvironmental reconstruction, archaeological interpretation, and fisheries management. This work applies Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for rapid and minimally destructive spatial mapping of Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca ratios in marine shells and fish otoliths The methodology enables spatially resolved analysis with minimal sample preparation, suitable for sensitive archaeological and environmental materials. Elemental mapping reveals signatures linked to temperature variability, biomineralization processes, and post-depositional alterations. Preliminary Sr/Ca mapping in otoliths from Atlantic salmon and European seabass demonstrates the capability of LIBS to support migration and population studies.

At IESL, this work forms part of a broader research direction focused on multimodal photonic sensing systems. LIBS elemental diagnostics can be combined with Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) for selective gas detection and with optical imaging techniques to create integrated environmental monitoring platforms. The objective is to develop scalable, mid-to-high TRL photonic systems that move beyond laboratory validation toward field deployment. This integrated approach strengthens IESL’s role in environmental diagnostics, climate resilience research, and competitive European consortia where technological maturity and operational impact are key evaluation criteria.