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Statistical evaluation of models in oceanography: Analysis of Schaefer's trophic dynamic equation, rather than a surrogate
Author(s) -
Schneider David C.
Publication year - 1992
Publication title -
limnology and oceanography
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.7
H-Index - 197
eISSN - 1939-5590
pISSN - 0024-3590
DOI - 10.4319/lo.1992.37.5.1076
Subject(s) - trophic level , surrogate data , environmental science , sensitivity (control systems) , confidence interval , statistics , mathematics , econometrics , ecology , statistical physics , physics , biology , quantum mechanics , nonlinear system , electronic engineering , engineering
Surrogate models result when a response (independent) variable is transformed for statistical rather than theoretical reasons. Surrogate models typically result in uninterpretable parameters, often reduce sensitivity (statistical power), and restrict conclusions to nominal (yes/no) or ordinal rather than interval or ratio scales. The generalized linear model permits direct evaluation of equations derived from physical and biological theory. The method is applied to an evaluation of Schaefer’s trophic dynamic model against data on carbon flux to marine birds. The data, which were nonnormally distributed, were consistent with Schaefer’s model of linear increase in secondary production with increase in primary production. A threshold for trophic transfer of fixed energy to marine birds at primary production levels >0 could not be detected.