Experiments in Ecology: Their Logical Design and Interpretation Using Analysis of Variance

by A.J. Underwood

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.

Genres: Science

524 pages, Paperback

First published December 12, 1996

Reviews

[Beth Darrow · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is an in-depth discussion of ANOVA for ecologists. It starts off with really good background information (first few chapters), but I found the nitty-gritty of things like block design and mixed models not explained very clearly. Especially if your experiments do not always have spatial complexity (Underwood's specialty is landscape ecology style experiments), it is hard to apply his examples to your own work. I much prefer Quinn & Keough as a general statistics/experimental design textbook for ecologists.