Using cross-classified multivariate mixed response models with application to life history traits in great tits (Parus major)
- Authors
- Year
- 2007
- Journal
- Statistical Modelling, 7:3, 217-238
- Abstract
Longitudinal observations on known individuals are an important source of data with which to test evolutionary theory within natural populations, in particular, the evolution and maintenance of life-history traits. In this paper, we concentrate on the reproductive behaviour and survival of a small passerine bird, the great tit (Parus major). The dataset we consider is taken from the long-term study of great tits in Wytham Woods in Oxfordshire. The models we consider are designed to relate variation in several phenotypic response variables that are linked to evolutionary fitness, alongside the correlations between them, to both general environmental and individual-specific factors. We fit multivariate cross-classified random effects models using a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) estimation algorithm described in the paper. Our results show for which traits variability is influenced by environmental factors and for which traits individual bird factors are more important. The partitioning of correlations is particularly illuminating, producing some pairs of antagonistic' correlations which are biologically meaningful.
- Number of levels
- 5
- Model data structure
- Response types
- Multivariate response model?
- Yes
- Longitudinal data?
- No
- Further model keywords
- Substantive discipline
- Substantive keywords
- Impact
Paper gives methodology for MCMC fitting of mixed response multivariate cross classified models and applies to nesting behaviour in great tits.
- Paper submitted by
- William Browne, Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, william.browne@bristol.ac.uk