Analysis of covariance: an alternative to nutritional indices

Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata - Tập 62 Số 3 - Trang 221-231 - 1992
David Raubenheimer1, Sean L. Simpson1
1Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PS, UK

Tóm tắt

AbstractSome statistical problems are added to the growing list of cautionary tales regarding the use of the conventional, ratio‐based nutritional indices (RCR, RGR, ECI, AD and ECD). Analysis of ratios is based on the, probably unrealistic, assumption of an isometric relationship between denominator and numerator variables. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) makes less restrictive assumptions, and additionally provides important information about the data which is lost by using ratio variables. We demonstrate, using computer‐generated data sets, some of the pitfalls of statistical analysis of ratios and illustrate how these may be avoided using ANCOVA. Some possible consequences of such statistical iniquities for biological interpretations are discussed.

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Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata

Tập 62 Số 3

221-231

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