[R-sig-eco] hurdle model for experiment anlysis

[Renke Lühken]

  Hi all,
I want to analyse an experiment at which insects were allowed to choose 
between four habitats with different characteristics (see below). Number 
of individuals per habitat were resampled six times (every 5 min). I 
want to know which variables and which interactions of the variables 
have an influence on the number of individuals in the habitats.

Problem: The response variable shows a zero inflation (>50% of the data) 
by true zeros (100% detectability).

Question: Can I use a hurdle model (ZAP) for that or do you recommend 
another method for the data analysis?

Thanks in advance,
Renke Lühken


Response variables
Number of individuals in the habitat

Explanatory variables:
Complexity of the habitat (4 levels)
Habitat has the Colour 1 (yes/no)
Habitat has the Colour 2 (yes/no)
Habitat has the Colour 3 (yes/no)
Habitat has the Colour 4 (yes/no)
Water additive 1 (yes/no)
Water additive 2 (yes/no)
Time (6 levels: 5-30 min [resampling every 5 min])