Use of Two-Block Partial Least-Squares to Study Covariation in Shape

The relatively new two-block partial least-squares method for analyzing the covariance between two sets of variables is described and contrasted with the well-known method of canonical correlation analysis. Their statistical properties, types of answers, and visualization techniques are discussed. Examples are given to show its usefulness in comparing two sets of variables—especially when one or both of the sets of variables are shape variables from a geometric morphometric study.