B1 Raw sequence reads
This study aimed to characterize the previously unexplored vertical distribution and ecological functions of prokaryotic communities in sediments underlying deep-sea polymetallic nodules from the Magellan seamounts. The primary goals were to determine how microbial diversity, community structure, and interaction networks change with depth in this unique habitat, which is defined by ultra-slow sedimentation and heterogeneous metal gradients. A key objective was to identify the key environmental drivers, such as metal oxides and heavy metals, that shape these sub-nodule communities and to elucidate the stratified microbial metabolic strategies, particularly for sulfur cycling. The relevance of this work is twofold: it significantly expands fundamental knowledge of microbial resilience and adaption in an extreme oligotrophic environment, and it provides critical baseline ecological data that can inform environmental impact assessments and guide the development of sustainable practices for future deep-sea mining activities.