benthic biodiversity

Mapping Deep-Sea Life: Environmental DNA Reveals Biodiversity Hotspots

The northern South China Sea's Qiongdongnan Basin hides a biodiversity puzzle beneath its hydrate-rich seabed, and this eDNA study brings it into focus. By sampling cold seeps, gas hydrate stable zones, and non-hydrate areas, the authors recovered 334 benthic species and found that deterministic processes, particularly variable selection, drive community assembly. That is a measurable step toward understanding these ecosystems. The work also complements our coverage of operational advances like the RAP-Based Mooring System, reinforcing how integrated data sharpens both science and stewardship.