R code and network files for replicating qualitative modeling analysis of the potential response of blue king crab to management interventions and climate change

In this study, we recovered cruise data from 1983-84 that quantified the density and habitat associations for every life-history stage of the blue king crab from larvae to adults in the Pribilof Islands, Alaska. We combined information from published studies, recovered data and stakeholder input. We used a qualitative network model (QNM) to mathematically formalize the conceptual model of systems and link changes in blue king crab populations to key ecological and environmental variables. The QNM approach allowed us to make qualitative predictions about the response of the stock to management actions and environmental change. The data set includes R scripts for replicating model analyses, results, and figures. The script "bkcQNM.R" steps the user through the model simulations and post-processing of predicted outcomes, and includes additional descriptions of the functions used in the analysis. The scripts "dia.R", "communityListRun.R", "community.R", contain functions that are called from the "bkcQNM.R" script. The file "BKC_QNM_SuppMat.dia" can be opened with the freeware program "Dia" and contains the blue king crab qualitative network model. Interested users can alter the network using Dia, and use these scripts to generate a new analysis or explore different management/climate scenarios.