A precision multi-sampler for deep-sea hydrothermal microbial mat studies

► We developed a novel ROV sampling tool to study deep-sea microbial mats. ► It enables high precision sampling within structured seafloor microbial communities. ► It allows collection of flocculated solid material, filtered material, and whole water. ► It has a reconfigurable and expandable capacity that allows for 108 samples per dive. ► It was successfully used in a study of Mid-Cayman Rise seafloor microbiology.