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

First published in 1996, this book is a logical and consistent approach to experimental design using statistical principles.

A. J. Underwood (Author)

9780521556965, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 12 December 1996

524 pages, 81 b/w illus. 94 tables
22.9 x 15.2 x 3.6 cm, 0.79 kg

'Altogether a well-written book that will prove an invaluable resource for ecologists of all calibres.' Helgoländer Meeresuntersuchungen

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, first published in 1996, 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 as well as advanced students involved in experimental design.

1. Introduction
2. A framework for investigating biological patterns and processes
3. Populations, frequency distributions and samples
4. Statistical tests of null hypotheses
5. Statistical tests on samples
6. Simple experiments comparing the means of two populations
7. Analysis of variance
8. More analysis of variance
9. Nested analyses of variance
10. Factorial experiments
11. Construction of any analysis from general principles
12. Some common and some particular experimental designs
13. Analysis involving relationships among variables
14. Conclusions: where to from here?

Subject Areas: Applied ecology [RNC], Ecological science, the Biosphere [PSAF]