Fig. 1: Sample collection and data analysis process.

A Regional map showing the location of the F-site cold seep area at in the northeastern continental slope of the South China Sea, constructed with GeoMapApp (www.geomapapp.org). B The high-throughput sampling device is equipped with the ROV FAXIAN and in situ working underwater. A meter stick measurement was used to accurately determine vertical height from the seepage. C A schematic overview of metagenomic analysis was performed in this study.