Dynamic benthic megafaunal communities: Assessing temporal variations in structure, composition and diversity at the Arctic deep-sea observatory HAUSGARTEN between 2004 and 2015

Our results highlight the importance of time-series studies as megafaunal community structure is characterised by continuous changes. This indicates that epibenthic communities from the deep seafloor are reactive and dynamic, with no consistent community state. To continue to monitor them is therefore crucial in understanding natural and anthropogenic impacts in an area exposed to the effects of climate change.