Exploring the role of Northeast Atlantic cod in the Barents Sea food web using a multi‐model approach

It is commonly accepted that no ecosystem model the ‘best’, but rather models should be used in ensembles. This also case for Barents Sea ecosystem, where we have two different to explore role of top-predator Northeast Arctic (NEA) stock Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua, Gadidae) food web. The differ complexity; Gompertz being less complex terms web (7 components) and processes compared Nordic Seas Atlantis (53 components). On other hand, provides thousands stochastic realizations each scenario, whereas only one deterministic simulation. To compare response changes NEA on key prey species, capelin (Mallotus villosus, Osmeridae) polar (Boreogadus saida, Gadidae), perturbed historical fishing pressure by ±50% same biomass both models. Even though links between species are similar models, results from study reveal indirect effects through food-web components might as important direct predator–prey interactions. Differences spatial structure overlap influence perturbations. In this study, focus mechanisms drives advise potential consequences fisheries management. can complement other, differences them point areas more knowledge needed.