What if Lines of Evidence Point Toward Different Conclusions?

Sometimes lines of evidence do not point toward the same conclusion. In this case, discuss possible reasons for disparities rather than ignore inconvenient evidence. Some disparities can be explained easily. For example, a field study may fail to confirm model predictions if:

• The study design is not powerful enough to detect the predicted difference. (Note: try to distinguish between true inconsistencies and those related to differences in statistical powers of detection. Unfortunately, natural ecosystem variations can make it very difficult to observe stressor-related perturbations.)
• The endpoints measured in the field study were not comparable to those used in the model.
• The model generates unrealistic predictions.