On the measurement of repair frequency: How important is data standardization?

摘要: Several methods have been developed to standardize frequencies of failed shell-crushing predation preserved as repair scars on the shells mollusks account for factors known influence accumulation repairs. Our understanding potential biases inherent in frequency analyses, however, remains incomplete due a lack systematic comparison and evaluation available methods. Here we examine effects three different types data standardization—body size, shape, exposure time enemies—on calculation hypothetical set 1,000 specimens marine gastropod species that varies across its geographic range morphology life history. We based assumptions ecological parameters (e.g., variation growth rates morphology) our model system literature reports living species. initially structured unstandardized show equivalent throughout species' range. Subsequent standardization this by revealed progressively stronger spatial pattern, with higher south. This finding suggests may be misleading. The continued use development should both enhance ability detect ecologically meaningful signals, facilitate unbiased tests hypotheses concerned importance predators ecology evolution.