Brossura

ISBN 10: 0521556961 ISBN 13: 9780521556965

Casa editrice: Cambridge University Press, 1997

Ecological theories and hypotheses are usually complex because of natural variability in space and time, which often makes the design of experiments difficult. This book describes how to design ecological experiments from a statistical basis using analysis of variance, so reliable conclusions can be drawn. The logical procedures that lead to a need for experiments are described, followed by an introduction to simple statistical tests. This leads to a detailed account of analysis of variance, looking at procedures, assumptions, and problems. One-factor analysis is extended to nested (hierarchical) designs and factorial analysis. Finally, some regression methods for examining relationships between variables are covered. Examples of ecological experiments are used throughout to illustrate the procedures and examine problems. This book will be invaluable to practicing ecologists as well as advanced students involved in experimental design.

Book Description:

Experiments in ecology require careful planning to produce data that can be used correctly in statistical tests. Analysis of variance is an important set of tests which allow attention to be focussed on details of experimental design, such as the effect of different fertilizer treatments. This book introduces the need for a logical structure to experiments, describes procedures and explains the problems. All ecologists involved in fieldwork as advanced students or researchers will find this practical approach to statistics of great value.

From the Back Cover:

Ecological theories and hypotheses are usually complex because of natural variability in space and time, which often makes the design of experiments difficult. The statistical tests we use require data to be collected carefully and with proper regard to the needs of these tests. This book describes how to design ecological experiments from a statistical basis using analysis of variance so that we can draw reliable conclusions. The logical procedures that lead to a need for experiments are described, followed by an introduction to simple statistical tests. This leads to a detailed account of analysis of variance, looking at procedures, assumptions and problems. One-factor analysis is extended to nested (hierarchical) designs and factorial analysis. Finally, some regression methods for examining relationships between variables are covered. Examples of ecological experiments are used throughout to illustrate the procedures and examine problems. This book will be invaluable to practising ecologists in addition to advanced students involved in experimental design.