Does Surgical Implantation Affect Hummingbird Weight Loss?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on analyzing the impact of surgical implantation on the weight loss of hummingbirds over a 6-month period. The researcher has longitudinal mass data for 8 hummingbirds, with surgeries performed at different times. The primary analytical method considered is ANOVA, potentially incorporating a covariate of day number to account for systematic mass decreases. The researcher also questions the appropriateness of using a chi-square test for homogeneity of population in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) methodology
  • Familiarity with longitudinal data analysis techniques
  • Knowledge of covariate analysis in statistical testing
  • Basic principles of ecological research design
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of ANOVA with covariates in ecological studies
  • Learn about longitudinal data analysis and its statistical implications
  • Investigate the use of chi-square tests in ecological research contexts
  • Explore statistical software options for performing ANOVA, such as R or SPSS
USEFUL FOR

Ecologists, biostatisticians, and researchers conducting experiments on animal behavior and physiology, particularly those interested in the effects of surgical interventions on wildlife.

Seadragon
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Hello,

I am faced with a perplexing challenge in analyzing my results for an ecology experiment. All help is immensely appreciated.

The situation:

I have 6-month longitudinal mass data for 8 hummingbirds. From eye-balling the data, time definitely has an effect: masses tend to decrease over time between certain intervals.

I am trying to discern whether a surgical implant has any effect on hummingbird mass. For each bird, the surgery was performed at a DIFFERENT TIME in the 6-month period.

So to recap:

Need to figure out if the implant (of negligible mass) affects hummingbird mass (makes them lose weight etc.). Operations done at different times throughout the year, and birds mass systematically decrease at certain intervals throughout the year.

Any ideas? Thanks so much for the help. I'm thinking ANOVA with covariate of day number... but I'm confused as to how to proceed.
 
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chi-square test for Homogeneity of Population?
 
salzahrah said:
chi-square test for Homogeneity of Population?

I'm confused as to why you would run that particular test.