Provides--in an organized and compact source--a comprehensive guide to the principles of sampling design and statistical analysis methods. Reviews the principles of inference, sampling and statistical design, and hypothesis formulation, all with special reference to ecological data. Includes an impact study illustrating the principles presented.

INTRODUCTION. Purpose and Relation to Existing Literature. Background Assumed. Organization and Emphasis. PRINCIPLES. General Review. The Example. Ten Principles. DECISIONS. Introduction. Optimal Impact Study Design. Optimal and Suboptimal Designs--The Main Sequences. Forms of Simple Variables. Derived Variables. Selection of Variables. Biological Variables in Special Areas. Estimation of Necessary Sample Size, Number, and Allocation. Data Screening Before Analysis. Computer Programs. Visual Display of Results. SEQUENCES. Main Sequence 1: Permits an Optimal Impact Study Design. Main Sequence 2: Impact Inferred from Temporal Change Alone. Main Sequence 3: Baseline or Monitoring Study. Main Sequence 4: Impact Must Be Inferred from Spatial PatternAlone. Main Sequence 5: ``When and Where?'' Is the Question. References. Index.