Viruses in a deep oligotrophic sea: Seasonal distribution of marine viruses in the epi-, meso- and bathypelagic waters of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea

► Viral distribution at 17 stations, sampling transects exceeding 1250 km. ► Samples collected from surface to 4000 m during mixing and stratification periods. ► Viral abundance showed significant seasonal and spatial variability. ► Probable relation with prokaryotic community characteristics. ► Indication of active viral community below 1000 m.