<p>This study investigates the distribution and diversity of meiofauna along depth and subsea permafrost thaw gradients on the East Siberian Sea (ESS) shelf and slope (depth 48–1350 m), a poorly studied Arctic region. We found that meiobenthic communities were primarily structured by sediment grain size and total organic content. Nematodes dominated (74–95% of total abundance) these communities, with densities consistent with their global prevalence. Total densities varied widely, from a minimum of 183 ± 16 individuals (ind)/10 cm² at the deepest sampling site (on the ESS slope) to a maximum of 3771 ± 211 ind/10 cm² at a shelf station influenced by thawing subsea permafrost, where dissolved organic matter is released to the seabed. At the middle and outer shelf sampling stations, the mean abundance was 2279 ± 751 ind/10 cm². Multivariate analysis revealed a close affinity among the middle and outer shelf stations. In contrast, the permafrost thaw-affected site formed a distinct cluster due to exceptionally high nematode density, and the deepest station was strongly separated by its low overall abundance. Taxa showed clear habitat preferences: harpacticoid copepods were associated with organic-rich silts, Gastrotricha and nauplii preferred silt, and Kinorhyncha showed an affinity for sandy sediments. Vertical distribution within the sediment layers was governed by organic matter and grain size, with nematodes present throughout the entire sediment column (depth 0‒4 cm). Optimal meiofauna habitats on the outer shelf slope region were linked to high autochthonous productivity, likely enhanced by nutrient supply from Pacific- and Atlantic-derived waters. These results indicate that dissolved organic matter from thawing subsea permafrost can lead to locally high densities of meiofauna, particularly nematodes, suggesting a complex benthic response to changes in the Arctic region. </p>