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

A. J. Underwood (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0521556961 | ISBN-13: 978-0521556965 | Publication Date: January 28, 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.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"...this book is important for ecologists to read...We do however need the methods of statistical inference to help sort out the details of ecological problems, and Underwood's important contribution in this book is to help convince us that the ecological devil is in the details." Charles J. Krebs, Revue Des Livres

"There are some valuable insights contained in the book that would aid those involved in spatial and temporal studies of landscapes and biological responses of different systems. The regression approaches to analyze the relationships among variables are quite detailed and insightful. It serves as a good reference on analysis of variance...." J. Environ. Qual

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.

Product Details

• Paperback: 524 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (January 28, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521556961
• ISBN-13: 978-0521556965
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 1.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #441,590 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars good to read, great to review, April 5, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Experiments in Ecology: Their Logical Design and Interpretation Using Analysis of Variance (Paperback)

This is really an excellent book. Concepts are presented in a straightforward and intuitive way. This is great for getting concepts the first time and also works really well as a review/reference text. Anyone who has felt frustrated while using Biometry (Sokal and Rohlf) to learn an unfamiliar statistical concept related to ANOVA should consider this book. It is a good complementary text to that one.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars essential book for ecologists, August 26, 2000

By 

Debbie Rudnick (Berkeley, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Experiments in Ecology: Their Logical Design and Interpretation Using Analysis of Variance (Paperback)

This book was one of the best purchases I made upon starting my graduate career. It is extremely well written and de-mystifies the process of hypothesis testing and experimental design and analysis. I consider this book a must for anyone starting out in the field of ecology who has questions about experimental design or analysis.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An outstanding book with a clear leanguage., July 13, 2000

By 

Rafael Riosmena Rdgz (La Paz, Baja California Sur Mexico) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Experiments in Ecology: Their Logical Design and Interpretation Using Analysis of Variance (Paperback)

Anyone has experience the fear of start reading any statistical book because most of the classic text always confuse us with very sophisticated formulas and terms. Underwood book for me is written in a extreme clear leanguage and examples. I teach this kind of courses and my students find easy to use even if is a foreign leanguage to us. I hope this would help you. Regards, Rafael.