Abstract
Lebensspuren—sedimentary traces produced by benthic organisms—are widespread on deep‐sea floors but remain infrequently reported from abyssal (~ 3000–6000) and hadal (> 6000 m) environments. Here, we present the most comprehensive assessment of abyssal–hadal vermiform lebensspuren to date, spanning multiple ocean basins and reaching full‐ocean depths. Using a morpho‐ethological framework, trace morphologies were classified into behavioral categories and examined across depth and geographic gradients. Four major behavioral classes (dwelling, feeding, digestion and locomotion) were recorded across basins and depth zones, suggesting globally conserved benthic behavioral strategies despite varying environmental conditions. In addition, observations of vermiform organisms but without noticeable trace structure are reported. Traces were predominantly produced by a limited suite of vermiform taxa: enteropneust worms, echiuran worms, polynoid scale worms, and sabellid‐like annelids. Dwelling, feeding, and digestion traces were most prevalent 8000 m. Trace expression and preservation were mediated by substrate properties, food supply, and disturbance, emphasizing the importance of environmental context. The widespread occurrence of traces demonstrates sustained bioturbation and sediment reworking throughout abyssal–hadal environments, even where visible faunal densities are low. Notably, we report the first evidence of enteropneust activity at full‐ocean depth and document traces attributable to Macellicephalinae (Polynoidae) scale worms. Overall, lebensspuren provided a noninvasive proxy for benthic activity, revealing functionally consistent sediment reworking processes in the deepest parts of the ocean.