Quantitative Analysis of Marine Biological Communities (PDF)

Quantitative methods specifically tailored for the marine
biologist

While there are countless texts published on quantitative methods
and many texts that cover quantitative terrestrial ecology, this
text fills the need for the special quantitative problems
confronting marine biologists and biological oceanographers. The
author combines common quantitative techniques with recent advances
in quantitative methodology and then demonstrates how these
techniques can be used to study marine organisms, their behaviors,
and their interactions with the environment. Readers learn how to
better design experiments and sampling, employ sophisticated
mathematical techniques, and accurately interpret and communicate
the results.

Most of this text is written at an introductory level, with a few
topics that advance to more complex themes. Among the topics
covered are plot/plotless sampling, biometrics, experimental
design, game theory, optimization, time trends, modeling, and
environmental impact assessments.

Even readers new to quantitative methods will find the material
accessible, with plenty of features to engage their interest,
promote learning, and put their knowledge into practice:

* One or more examples are provided to illustrate each individual
quantitative technique presented in the text

* The accompanying CD-ROM features two multimedia programs, several
statistical programs, help to run complex statistical programs, and
additional information amplifying topics covered in the text

* References lead readers to additional information to pursue
individual topics in greater depth

Quantitative Analysis of Marine Biological Communities, with its
extensive use of examples, is ideal for undergraduate and graduate
students in marine biology. Marine biologists, regardless of their
level of experience, will also discover new approaches to
quantitative analysis tailored to the particular needs of their
field.