Hi,
I know that this is a contentious topic, but what is the latest view on how to define sample size when you are working with multiple surveys across multiple sites. Sample size /no. of parameters determines whether you use AIC or AICc so that is why I am betwixt and between.
In my case, I have 61 sites that were surveyed 12 times each. My detection histories vary considerably depending on the species (I am looking at 6 different species within the one study).
I have read that it is possible to define sample size as:
1) no. sampling units (sites)
2) no. of detections
3) no. of surveys at occupied sites
Do you select one of the above depending on which gives the best fitting model?
And is it OK then to use different sample sizes for each species ('tho obviously you would use the same sample size for all the models for one species).
Any thoughts appreciated
Thanks
Fiona