Conceptual representation of the life cycle of methane seep ecosystems

The present proposal offers an in-depth conceptual representation of the life cycle of methane seep ecosystems, showcasing their ecological development and biogeochemical processes from beginning to end. It combines current knowledge about microbial and metazoan communities, merging environmental and geological factors into a theoretical structure. A thorough review of literature on geology, biogeochemistry, and ecology supports the conceptual representation. It details five stages: birth, youth, maturity, senescence, and extinction, with each stage explaining the respective communities and their metabolic functions. It blends ideas from various fields, providing a comprehensive perspective on methane seep ecosystems and their intricate interactions. Additionally, the manuscript points out gaps in existing knowledge and proposes future research directions, highlighting the need for quantitative models and on-site investigations to validate the theoretical model.